New York Parks and Conservation Association (NYPCA) is hosting a bicycle tour July 8-15, as part of their on-going efforts to promote the Erie Canal Corridor and bicycle tourism. Registration for the Buffalo to Albany trip is limited to the first 250 riders, and fees increase after June 17. Therefore, anyone interested in participating in this event should sign up as soon as possible. Registration costs vary: $475 for the 8-day ride, $375 for youth under 18, $250 for non-cyclist/driver participants, $175 for a weekend ride option. Funds raised help support NYPCA's trail programs.

Registration fees include the following: tent camping sites with showers and facilities, baggage transport to each night's tent city, Sag Wagon and mobile mechanical transport, for the eight-day tour, eight breakfasts and six dinners, kick-off reception and celebration banquet, daily map and cue sheet, two refreshment stops daily, dormitory option on three nights, entertainment and historic talks.

To participate in the tour, riders must have a bicycle and a helmet to wear. No one will be permitted to ride without a helmet. All travel arrangements to Buffalo and from Albany are the responsibility of the cyclist.

For information or brochures about the bicycle tour, contact NYPCA at (518) 434-1583 or Assemblymember Susan John's office at 244-5255.