Despite wintery temperatures and the 26-miles that lay ahead, participants were all smiles when they began the Second Annual CCSO Community Bike Ride. (Submitted photo)
LA PLATA, Md. (April 5, 2011) — March 26 might have began as one of the month’s coldest mornings but the winter-like temperatures didn’t stop more than 100 bicyclists from bundling up and joining the Charles County Sheriff’s Office for its Second Annual Community Bike Ride to benefit United Way of Charles County and the Spring Dell Center. The bike ride raised $2,776 for the two organizations.
“It was wonderful to see so many kind-hearted folks dedicate part of their Saturday to raising money for two organizations that rely heavily on fundraising to provide important programs and services to our community,” said Lt. Stephen Salvas, commander of the Community Services Section at the Sheriff’s Office and coordinator of the annual event.
Casual and serious cyclists alike began the ride from the Indian Head Village Green and biked all or part of the 26-mile Hiker-Biker Trail between the town and White Plains. Upon their return to Indian Head, they received a free lunch donated by the Town of Indian Head.
“The Town of Indian Head is absolutely wonderful to us,” said Lt. Salvas. “They not only welcomed us warmly to their community center but they went the extra mile for the riders by helping with anything we needed. For a true sense of community, we can always look to the Town of Indian Head and the good people who live and volunteer there.”
Other community organizations also helped ensure the bike ride’s success. The Charles County Department of Parks and Recreation helped plan and execute the fundraiser. The Department of Emergency Services was available to provide medical treatment for injured or exhausted riders. The Bike Doctor assisted with bike inspections and repairs. KNC Marketing provided commemorative T-shirts to the riders and board members and clients from the Spring Dell Center manned water stations along the trail
“There is so much good in Charles County and this bike ride is a prime example,” said Sheriff Rex Coffey. “Between the folks who do the behind-the-scenes work and the citizens who ride the trail, there is no questioning the kindness and generosity of our community.”
Source: Charles County Sheriff’s Office