Bike to Work Week bonus: Free bikes for Badger Alloys workers

Dozens of Badger Alloys Inc. workers will receive free bikes, helmets and locks Friday morning as a reward for their participation in a recently started company wellness program.

Ninety-nine employees enrolled in the wellness program, which included a complete health assessment. They were offered $100 in cash or a bike package from Wheel & Sprocket. More than 70 chose the bikes.

In addition, Badger Alloys will pay up to $200 per year per employee for entry fees in walks, runs, bike rides and triathlons.

"Our health is our greatest asset, and so many of us do little about it," said Rob Cowen, president and CEO of the foundry located on W. State St. "I believe that this program will help us make simple changes in our lives that will allow us to live longer and happier."

More events: The ride to work with Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele is scheduled to start at 7 a.m. at Kenwood Blvd. and Lake Dr., weather permitting.

The county exec and Parks Director Sue Black will lead the group to the Oak Leaf Trail off Riverside Park, then follow city streets to the courthouse. Organizers say it is the first Bike to Work ride by a Milwaukee County executive.

On Saturday, the Friends of the Hank Aaron State Trail will host a tour to show off the trail extension west of Miller Park. The tour starts at 9 a.m. at the Park & Ride lot at State Fair Park, off 76th St. From there, riders will head east to the Gathering Waters Festival at Lakeshore State Park.

Check out the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin for more details on Bike to Work Week events.