News Release Distributed 09/27/10

SHREVEPORT, La. – Vélo Dendro S Deux, a leisurely bicycle tour of Shreveport’s most significant trees, is set for Saturday, Oct. 23, led by Shreveport native Hallie Dozier, an urban forester with the LSU AgCenter in Baton Rouge.

Baton Rouge Advocates for Safe Streets (B.R.A.S.S.) is joining with the LSU AgCenter, Columbia Café, A Better Shreveport and Shreveport Green to bring the event to Shreveport for the second year. Registration and preparation for the ride will be at 8 a.m. with the event starting at 8:45 a.m. at Columbia Café, 3030 Creswell.

Riders – amateur and experienced, young and old – will enjoy the camaraderie of a slow, easy, fun bike ride on the streets of Shreveport, Dozier said.

“This fun and information-filled ride encourages and supports the growth of bicycling and healthier living in Shreveport and Caddo Parish,” Dozier added.

The ride will cover approximately 15 miles in South Highlands and Broadmoor, with frequent stops along the way to look at special trees. A tree will be planted in Betty Virginia Park with assistance from Shreveport Green for "Make a Difference Day" events.

Dozier said riders will be treated to a visit to the Louisiana State Champion sycamore tree at A.C. Steere Elementary School. Dozier attended Steere, Broadmoor and Byrd schools and graduated from Centenary College in 1982.

“We'll learn about the trees, their care and their benefits, and we will wind up the event with food and beverages at Columbia Café,” she said.

The cost of $10 for each rider includes a commemorative T-shirt. Children 5 and under are free but must ride on their parents’ bicycles. “Trail-a-bike” attachments are welcome.

Water, snacks and rider support will be provided along the route.

The registration form is available at http://www.bikereg.com. Put “Shreveport” in the search box.

More information is available from Dozier at 225-578-7219 or hdozier@agcenter.lsu.edu.