Posted: 10/12/05
By MaryHelen Swanson
The rumbling in Rush City last Thursday night wasnít thunder, whew, it was the sound coming from bikers belonging to the River Riders Chapter of A.B.A.T.E. (American Bikers for Awareness, Training & Eduction) of Minnesota.
They rolled up to the fire hall to present the Rush City department with three dozen Buddy Bears - small stuffed animals that might, at the right moment, bring a little comfort to a child, or even adult, in a stressful situation. But, as proud as they were that they were able to provide these bears to the department, they said they hoped the department never had to use them.
In the last two years, this local chapter of A.B.A.T.E. has donated 30 dozen bears to area emergency and law enforcement departments.
A.B.A.T.E is a not-for-profit organization committed to educating motorcyclists and the public about motorcycling.
It seeks to promote the positive aspects of cycling and works to protect the rights of motorcyclists by being involved in the local, state and national political process.
The efforts of this group have made Minnesota a leader in motorcycle safety.
The River Riders Chapter also participates in solder care packages, holiday gifts for residents at Green Acres, cash donations to Muscular Dystrophy and Tribute to the Troops programs, provides hats and gloves for Veterans Hospital patients and participates in many local benefits.
Visit their Web site for more information: www.saddlebagsusa.com/riverriders.htm or call Mike Lundeen at (651) 257-2249.
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