150 bikers to ride into RR this Saturday

By Ken Johnston
Editor

On Saturday Rainy River will be invaded by bikers, but not the kind you might think!
For the first time in its six year history the Kenora-Rainy River District Alzheimer Motorcycle Ride for Memories will be making a stop in Rainy River. In fact all four starting points (Kenora, Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Fort Frances) will be heading towards Rainy River for a mid-day luncheon at the legion.
Alzheimer Executive Director Margaret Schonewille is really excited about it. “Every year we change host sites for the lunch and this way it helps include Rainy River.”
Schonewille expects that there will be about 150 motorcycles descending on Rainy River that day. They will all begin their ride at different times in accordance with how long it takes them to get to Rainy River from their respective locations. They should start arriving at 11:30 a.m. and will be fed lunch by the Legion Ladies Aux. At 1:30 p.m. all the bikers will saddle up and rumble around Rainy River on a tour before heading out for Dryden where they will complete their day with a steak dinner.
In addition to raising awareness about Alzheimer Disease in the region, the motorcyclists are also raising funds for the Kenora-Rainy River Alzheimer Society. The average raised the past two years was about $31,000 and Schonewille expects that total to be even higher this year.
Locally Kevin Kennedy of Pinewood is participating in the ride and has filled several sheets of pledges. He was one of the top money raisers last year and could very well be there again this year. Top fundraisers will be presented with prizes that include a stay at an area tourist camp.
Riders will also participate in a poker rally, receiving poker hands when they register and more cards for the more money they have pledged.
Anyone wanting to register for the ride can call the Alzheimer Society’s office in Kenora at 1-800-682-0245 or just show up. Money will be collected at starting points and the at the finish point. It costs $15 if registered early or $20 the day of. Ride t-shirts will also be available for sale and a Chinese Auction will be held at the supper in Dryden.
The public is invited to come to the RR Legion and see the motorcycles on display this Saturday.