In 2008, Jackson State University built a walking and biking trail on the Dr. Robert Smith Parkway and the Center for University-Based Development wants to help promote its usage through its annual “Cruising the Community” event. “Cruising the Community” will be a 1-3 mile ride around the JSU campus and the event is for anything on wheels (no motors) bikes, scooters, wagons, tricycles, skates, roller blades, wheel chairs, and skateboards. This event will take place on Friday, June 27th at the Walter Payton Center. If it rains the ride will take place on the inside of the Walter Payton Center. (If your child has a helmet and/or knee pads, please bring them on this day).

The Grand Marshall for the event will be Dr. Robert Smith Sr. and he will be leading the children in the ride. Also Dr. Aaron Shirley will be in attendance and he will be bringing his medical van from the Jackson Medical Mall to give free health screenings to participants.

The benefits of this ride include

1. Exposing youth to safe routes for biking and walking.
2. Raising awareness about bike safety and helmet safety.
3. Providing parents and caregivers the opportunity to get health screenings.

According to the Mississippi Department of Health

• 40% of all children in Mississippi are obese
• In 1969, 42% of students walked or biked to school and in 2001 this number has decreased to only 13%.

After the ride is complete, all the children will return to the gym at the Walter Payton Center, where they will get a chance to see the “Rollin Tigers” play a game of basketball. After the game is complete, children will eat lunch and participate in other fun activities.

Below is the route for the ride and a list of our sponsors. To ensure your child gets a free helmet and gift bag, please register at >http://www.jsums.edu/cubd/event/2cdcruising/

The Center for University-Based Development is still in need of volunteers and sponsors. If you are interested please contact 601-979-5828. All JSU students that volunteer will get 15 hours of community service hours and all of our sponsors will be promoted through our flyers and blog.

Thank you to our sponsors that have already committed to helping, because this event would not be possible with out you.