The Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership Teams up with Bike Virginia for Tour and Economic Boost to Local Communities
Charlottesville, Culpeper, Orange Ready to Party and Reap the Benefits

For Immediate Release  
June 18, 2009
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Waterford, Virginia — The Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership is a partner in this year’s Bike Virginia 2009 — a tour that will generate more than a $1.5 million in local revenue and runs through the heart of the Virginia Piedmont, bringing cyclists of all levels closer to the towns, natural beauty and heritage emblematic of the Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Heritage Area.

With 2,000 cyclists already registered for this year’s tour, June 19 – 24, host cities Charlottesville, Culpeper and Orange are gearing up to welcome riders, families, friends and enthusiasts of all kinds to enjoy five days of fun in the heart of the Virginia Piedmont. These Main Street Communities in fact are busy planning parties with live music, tours, and street fairs while many stores are extending operating hours.

“This is a special opportunity to connect Orange, Culpeper and Charlottesville with thousands of folks from around the National Heritage Area and the region, said Cate Magennis Wyatt, president of the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership. “Whether on two wheels or two feet, everyone is welcome to explore and enjoy these truly amazing communities in this magnificent region.”

According to Bike Virginia, the Tour brings approximately $300,000 in revenue per night to businesses in host towns through hotel rooms, meals and other purchases. Journey Through Hallowed Ground partners are primed to make it an exceptional experience for riders, friends, family and everyone interested in joining in the fun.

“We are geared up and ready,” said Jeff Curtis, executive director of the Orange Downtown Alliance. “This is a chance to introduce folks from the entire four-state Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Heritage Area and the region to the many local flavors of Orange.”

The town of Orange has the honor of final-night festivities for the bike tour, and they are ready. With two live bands – Odd Legged Jenny and Blues Farm – a variety of foods from local restaurants, all your favorite beverages, craft vendors, live radio broadcasts, this has all the ingredients for a terrific evening for the whole family, running from 5- 9pm.

The ride however begins on Saturday in Charlottesville. That evening the Charlottesville/Albemarle Convention and Visitor’s Bureau has lined up a variety of events for riders to enjoy, including tours of Monticello, wine tastings, socials, and transportation to local restaurants.

On Monday evening, Culpeper is welcoming everyone to join them for a Downtown Block Party to celebrate Bike Virginia as well as Culpeper’s 250th birthday. With live beach music by the Rhondels, a Beer & Wine Garden sponsored by the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce, food vendors sponsored by Culpeper Renaissance Inc., and birthday cake provided by the Culpeper Star Exponent, this will be a fun time for everyone.