The Summer Solstice may have passed for this year, but the fundraising hasn’t stopped the Alzheimer’s Association’s Longest Day campaign. Two guys from Peoria Illinois, Bob Fussner and Jody Summers, are hosting the first Vintage Bike Ride to End ALZ.
Mr. Fussner is an avid collector of vintage bicycles, and Mr. Summers enjoys riding. Dementia and Alzheimer’s have touched both of their families. So, they thought why not DO something they love FOR someone they love, and raise some money to help fight a disease that has touched so many lives, not just in Illinois, but worldwide. The two hosts state that although the ride is themed as vintage bikes, all types of riders and bikes are welcome.
The event will take place on Saturday, August 19, 2023. Registration and packet pick up will start at 11:00 am next to the water tower at Junction City Shopping Center in Peoria. The ride will leave Junction City at noon, head south on the Kellar Branch Greenway bike trail, and proceed to Oliver’s in the Heights. After a quick stop, they will proceed down Prospect Ave. in Peoria Heights to Pour Bros. Taproom for a mid-ride break. After the break, riders will cross Prospect and jump back on the bike trail to head back to Junction City.
“We realize this is a short ride,” says Summers, “but vintage bikes are heavy, and it may encourage families with smaller children to ride the shorter distance.” They will have vintage bikes on display and hope to have snacks, drinks, and music if ridership numbers increase.
Registration for the ride is $30.00 per rider. T-shirts and goodie bags will go to the first 50 registrants. You can also register at the time of the ride at Junction City. Several outstanding businesses have also donated to the ride including Russel’s Cycling and Fitness, The Tavern on Prospect, Junction City Pub, Trefzger’s Bakery, Oliver’s in the Heights, White Income Tax, and Olio & Vino.
Although this is our first try with a fundraiser, we hope it will develop into a larger event with a bicycle swap meet, live music, and food vendors in future years.
For more information, please contact Jody Summers at (309) 472-3189, or j.summers64@yahoo.com.
Event Details.
Vintage Bike Ride
Saturday, August 19, 2023 (11:00 A.M.)
Junction City Shopping Center
5901 N Prospect Rd
Peoria, IL 61614
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