Comments from Patchland: Get Out and Ride Your Bike!

Welcome to this week's edition of “Comments from Patchland,” a peek at some of the highlights from your feedback on our sites. Today's selection touches on topics ranging from fitness to fundraising, from politics to poverty.

Care to chime in? Click the link for a headline and add your comments on the topic.

How many times did you mom tell you to do this?

"Recreation that ties people into activities that promote fitness should be the goal of any new parks. The following St. Charles has generated in the cycling community would indicate that the 'skills area' would be highly successful. How funny that right across the river is the old location of my childhood memories at the old BMX track!"

—Mitch, St. Charles Patch

"I have to agree that some kind of a bicycle park would be fantastic. Some progressive dirt jumps, a pump track, and obstacle area would be perfect. And with 100 acres, there would still be room to do something else. Nearly every kid has a bike, and they all need to be outside more in a safe place out of traffic."
— Cameron Brown, St. Charles Patch

The club vs. the Creek?

"The Sam's Club has done a great job preserving the cemetery on site and has a large conservation plot that will leave the natural tree line. I hope that the 15 or so Bear Creek residents that are upset will not stop a great opportunity for our city. A Sam's Club will bring much needed jobs and revenue to our city."
— JP, Wentville Patch

The parents have to lead!

"The school districts who are not accredited--well, it's about time those taxpayers get their act together and improve their OWN schools! Parent involvement is the KEY to any GOOD school district!"
— Ruth Foster, Eureka-Wildwood Patch

The students have to lead!

"Really heartwarming news! I recently spoke to local sixth-grade classes about the Japan disaster and told them the people of the United States have the warmest hearts and most generous spirits in the world. Especially proud of our youth for taking initiative to organize these big events, learning as they go—our future is in good hands."
— Linda Austin, Kirkwood-Webster Groves Patch

The parents with students have to lead!

"This community needs to get it together. We need to get out and vote. We need to stop letting people with no children in the school district on the school board. Franz and Stoner's forum 'to watch out for the taxpayer'—not to watch out for our kids. Who is watching out for the kids?"
— Mehlville resident, Mehlville Patch

The seniors check in...

"Mr. Allen has seen a market that will grow as time goes by. As a senior myself, I see a day when I may need or want such a place to stay. It is a great new venture for the City of Arnold."
— Gary L. Plunk, Arnold Patch

Penny for your thoughts: Should tied council candidates toss a coin?

"If their true moral compass is to represent their district, rather than win an election, they would toss the coin and decide the issue versus waiting until August, while key decisions are being made without regard for their area."
— Geri Greene, Florissant Patch

"I heard Purgahn was OK with a coin toss, but not Stinnett, so there will be a runoff. Both would have had to agree."
— Gabe, also Florissant Patch

A shoe-in for some helping hands

"I heard you on the radio the other morning. I thought, this guy is doing some great work helping our brothers and sisters in Kenya. I can help a little bit, too. I am collecting shoes via family, neighbors, anyone who will listen. I'll be seeing you at your Fenton location. Thank you."
— Bonnie Grobe, Ballwin-Ellisville Patch

Shedding light on the issue

"The driving range is an investment that the city chose to make, and one that has been financially successful. It seems foolish to forgo the revenue it can bring in from golfers wishing to improve their swing on spring evenings."
— Lisa Hummel, University City Patch