The Washington Street Community Center will host their second annual Bike Fest at 9 a.m. June 6 at the center. The event — cosponsored by the Covington Conyers Cycling Club (C4), Conte’s Bicycles & Fitness and the Covington Police Department — is open to children ages 5 through 13. Volunteers from the cycling club will be on-hand to inspect, safety check and make minor repairs to bicycles ridden by Bike Fest participants. While supplies last, children without a bike, or whose bike is deemed unsafe, will be given a bicycle to take home. The give-away bikes come through a program where Conte’s and C4 receive "gently used" bikes donated from the public and refurbish them to give away.

 "Last year, we gave away at least 27 bikes to boys and girls who were happy to have them," said C4 President Maurice Carter. "Through generous donations, we also were able to give new helmets, flashing safety lights and bells to over 50 kids."

 Anyone with a bike to donate for this year’s event can bring it to one of two drop-off locations:

 • Washington Street Community Center — 4138 School St, Covington

 • Conte’s Bicycles & Fitness — 1927 Highway 138 NE, Conyers

 According to WSCC Director Bea Jackson, the 2008 Bike Fest was one of the highlights of the year, and the children are excited already about this year.

 "It was a great day last year," said Jackson. "We had a super turnout from the children and from the community. It was a day of fun for the center and the entire neighborhood. We can’t wait to do it all over again."

 This year’s event will again feature the bicycle safety check, a bike and helmet fit check, safety lessons and quizzes and a skills course staffed by officers from the Covington Police Department.

 "We’re happy to see kids outdoors on bicycles, having fun and being active," said Covington Police Lt. Paul Dailey. "But, we want our children to be safe. This event is a great way to teach bicycle safety in a way that is fun. We are happy to be a part of it."

 This year, the Bike Fest ends with a special treat: a Bicycle Parade to the Covington Square and back. Organizers invite all children and adults to join in on the fun, whether they attend the Bike Fest or not.