Hoping to improve safety for children who ride bicycles, the Village of Mineola, Cross Street School PTA, Mineola Bicycle Fitness and Mower and the Mineola Auxiliary Police held the first bicycle skills and safety day on Saturday at the village hall parking lot.

Parents were invited to bring their children with bicycles and helmets. Children were then instructed on the rules of the road and the proper use of equipment and were able to practice their skills in the parking lot.

Two of the driving forces behind the event, Village Trustee Linda Fairgrieve and Dr. Ann Forte, a Mineola chiropractor and member of the Cross Street PTA, were hoping for a larger turnout but believe that if the event prevents one child from getting hurt it was all worth it.

Both Mrs. Fairgrieve and Dr. Forte emphasized the importance of keeping children safe on the road. "It was a good turnout for the first time, but we're hoping for more because it's just so important," Mrs. Fairgrieve said.

Also in attendance from the Village of Mineola were Mayor Jack M. Martins and Village Trustee Lou Santosus.

Audrey Meinking from Mineola Bicycle Fitness and Mower instructed children and parents on the importance of using the right equipment. She said every bicycle should be equipped with eight reflectors and the proper fit for helmets is when they come down right above the eyebrows. Wearing helmets incorrectly can prove to be dangerous.

Cross Street PTA member Christine Marchiselli said the day was fun and children received important instruction. "I think it's very important. The neighborhood that we live in is wonderful but it is crowded. There are a lot of cars on the road and we want to make sure that our children are equipped with the right information to make good decisions about driving their bikes in the neighborhood. I think it's very helpful," she said.

Helping out with the event and providing handouts on safety were members of the Mineola Auxiliary Police, led by Chief Mike Spae. "We were definitely pleased to have a number of kids. We look to make this an annual event," said Chief Spae.

"The safety of the road is very important. I think it's great for the parents and the community of Mineola to support that learning. It helps me to remember how fun it was to ride a bicycle as a kid too," said parent Gerry Bohner.