It is a source of constant amazement and amusement to me that young adults in my neighborhood will drop many hundreds of dollars on the right bicycle and the trendiest bicycling clothing, and expend countless calories biking pointlessly up steep mountain roads or around and around in blindingly fast circles at our local park ... but never, and I mean never, will you catch one of them poor slobs actually pedaling (or walking) 3/4 of a mile to our nearest grocery store to pick up milk, eggs, or bread.  That would be, I guess, too ... practical.  

Most importantly, I guess, it is not a method for displaying their ability to conspicuously consume.  Maybe if they filled their panier bags to overflowing with olive oil, pesto sauce, and belgian endive ...

Another brilliant, far-sighted Republican.  I'm sure he has an "I support the troops" magnet on his Escalade.  

I think Bush backed some bicycle measures in the previous energy bill, being the (mountain) biker himself (maybe even how he got tick-bit).

Anyway, I hope someone suggests to him that it isn't "making" Americans ride bikes.  There are many who want to, and are looking for safe routes.

The strategy of the biking community to support "safe routes to schools" is valid and valuable in this situation.

Rep. McHenry ... you don't want kids to be safe on their bikes?

Or that he has ever been on a hike?  

Isn't this a "Let them eat cake"  moment for Republicans.

Don't go by bike, have somebody drive you.

The money could be better spent though on safty programs or encouragement systems or bike paths.  or maybe the money would do some good.

I hate having to admit that he is from my hometown, but if any good can come from it, and you happen to be passing through Hickory, NC, please feel free to stop by his office and let him know what you think.