Strengthening Bike Safety for Tioga: A Call to Drivers and Community Involvement

Tioga Police Department

As the academic year draws to a close, it is essential for us to prioritize the safety of our community's young cyclists. With students traveling to and from school on their bicycles, it becomes paramount for both drivers and cyclists to exercise caution and adhere to road safety practices. In this article, we will explore the importance of bike safety and encourage drivers to remain vigilant, ensuring the well-being of our community's children as they embark on their cycling journeys. Together, let us create a secure environment where our young riders can thrive.

Safety First: Cycling Tips for Students

For our community kid- dos who ride their bikes to school, it's crucial to instill safe cycling habits. Here are some essential tips for young cyclists:

1. Always wear a properly fitted helmet to protect the head in case of a fall or collision.

2. Obey traffic rules and signals, just like any other vehicle on the road.

3. Ride in a single file, in the same direction as traffic, and use designated bike lanes when available.

4. Use hand signals to indicate turns or stops, giving motorists ample warning.

5. Stay visible by wearing bright clothing and using reflectors and lights, especially during lowlight conditions.

Driver Awareness: Sharing the Road Responsibly

As responsible drivers, it is crucial to be attentive and vigilant, especially during school dismissal times when children may be cycling home. Here are some tips for drivers to promote bike safety:

1. Slow down in school zones and residential areas, especially during pick-up and drop-off times.

2. Look for cyclists before opening car doors and when turning at intersections.

3. Leave a safe distance when passing cyclists, providing at least three feet of space.

4. Be patient and avoid honking unnecessarily, as sudden loud noises

Did You Know?

can startle young cyclists.

5. Avoid distractions such as texting or using electronic devices while driving, as it impairs focus and reaction time.

As the school year concludes, let's prioritize bike safety and ensure the well-being of our community’s kiddos. Educating young cyclists about safe riding practices, promoting driver awareness, and fostering a collaborative approach can create a secure environment where our children can enjoy the benefits of cycling while remaining safe on the roads. Let's work together to make Tioga a model of bike safety and protect our most precious assets.

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A good joke can liven up any social engagement, but the value of humor goes well beyond breaking the ice at parties and other get-togethers. According to the Cleveland Clinic, laughter can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to lower heart rate and help people breathe more easily. Given such benefits, it’s no surprise that laughter has been linked to a host of medical benefits, including stress relief and improved heart health.

By Heidi Whitney

Westby High School Class of 2023:

Graduation: Westby School Gym

May 19, 7:00pm

Class Colors: Purple Gold, and Black

Commencement

Speaker: Jennifer Pulvermacher, Math Instructor at Westby High School

District Track Results: Folvag Breaks Thunder Record Twice

The District 2-C track meet was held in Lambert May 9 with the following results:

Boys:

• Thomas Arnson: 6th in triple jump

• Victor Christian: 7th in 1600m

• Elliot Rudningen: 8th in discus

• Graham Wright: 2nd in triple jump; 6th in100m; 7th in 200m

• Arnson, Andrew Petersen, Rudningen, and Wright:

Two Thunder GOLFERS Head to State

Adam Paine came in third and Tavyn Jacobson qualified for state at the divisional golf meet on Monday, May 8 in Laurel.

At press time, they are both competing at the state golf meet in Great Falls.

Head coach of MonDak golf is Blake Lampert; assistant is Joe Paine.

7th in 4x100 relay; 8th in 4x400 relay.

Girls:

• Zoe Brandenburger: 6th in 100m

• Erika Christian 4th in 1600m; 5th in 800m

• Katelynn Folvag: 3rd in 100m hurdles; 5th in 300m hurdles

• Sydney Rudningen: 7th in high jump; 7th in javelin; 8th in 400m

• Sayler Stewart:1st in 800m; 2nd in 3200m

• Bradenburger, Christian,

Folvag, and Stewart: 5th in 4x100m relay

• Bradenburger, Folvag, Rudningen, and Stewart: 2nd in 4x400m relay

Coach Susan Meyer also reported that Katelynn Folvag broke the Thunder’s 100m hurdle record held by Jenna Rust twice in six days; the second being at the district meet.

The Montana Eastern C Divisional Track Meet will be held May 18 in Lambert.

State Music Results

Seventeen Westby High School students attended the Eastern Montana State Music Festival May 5-6 in Billings. Seniors Sayler Stewart and Faith Olson (pictured in Class of 2023) each received Superior (I) ratings on their vocal solos. The Westby Drum Line received an Excellent (II) rating. Westby band and choir are directed by Ken Whitney.