U.S. Congressman Earl Blumenauer will kick off Interbike in Las Vegas next month. His presence will put advocacy front and center at North America’s largest bike trade show. Blumenauer will be joined by Interbike Show Director Andy Tompkins and Bikes Belong Coalition President Tim Blumenthal at a press conference to open the show on September 22nd.
Here’s an excerpt from a statement by Interbike:
“The purpose of the press conference is to welcome the industry to Interbike 2010, share information about the industry’s show and its future direction, and hear from Blumenauer and Blumenthal on the state of cycling legislation and future government activity on behalf of bicycling.
Blumenauer’s visit comes at a critical time as the U.S. government continues to work on the next transportation bill, which will set the tone for cycling infrastructure investments during the next six years. The Congressman will outline where bicycling stands, and where it’s going. He will pinpoint what the industry can do to support the cause. Following the press conference, Blumenauer will spend the day at Interbike visiting with the industry.”
In addition to his speech to open the show, Blumenauer will be the guest of honor at a BikesPAC fundraising reception hosted by Bikes Belong the night before the press conference.
The press conference will be held Wednesday, September 22, 8:00 a.m. I will be in attendance and will share a full report. This is great news for bike advocates as Blumenauer’s presence will help the industry recognize the vital importance of becoming involved in advocacy on the national level.