Program promotes health
via bicycling

A new health program to encourage bicycling begins tomorrow in Kalihi with free bike tuneups, a bicycle giveaway and a bike ride.

The Kalihi Valley Instructional Bike Exchange (K-VIBE) will hold its grand opening at 10 a.m. at 1638 Kamehameha IV Road.

In recent months, dozens of donated bicycles have been restored to safe, working order by K-VIBE specialists under the supervision of EKI Cyclery mechanics.

To promote active living and better health, these bikes will be made available to the public in exchange for services such as organizing community rides.

"We want to see more Kalihi residents on two wheels," said Gary Gill, Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive Family Services' active-living program coordinator and a biking enthusiast. "People of all ages can benefit from human-powered transportation. It's fun and healthy."

"Our mission is not just to treat people when they feel sick," said Dr. David Derauf, executive director of Kokua Kalihi Valley. "We aim to keep people healthy. Good nutrition and regular exercise are keys to good health."

The program will accept bike donations at the storefront on Saturdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

For more information, call Gill at 227-9218.

K-VIBE is a program of Kokua Kalihi Valley, a nonprofit community health clinic on School Street.