August 11, 2021 – Gibson City, IL – Even after touring more than 30 years on a bike it is still amazing how many people reach out to help.
After a steamy day Tuesday with temps in the high 90s I pulled into Gibson City, IL with nearly 80 miles under my belt.
Standing outside a local church on Main Street a man pulls up. “Where have you been and where are you going,” asked Paul. We chatted a bit.
Paul was a fellow biker, retired, and said I should come and stay with him tonight.
He checked with his wife, at my insistence, and I spent a lovely evening getting to know Paul and Sarah Sarantakos.
Paul was retired law enforcement and Sarah worked closely with the local Catholic Church.
“My birthday is in two days and Paul already surprised me with a leaf blower for the yard,” said Sarah. “I love outdoor power tools.”
The couple met in college and had been married for over 30 years. They had two sons, both grown and out of the house.
Paul was an avid biker and Sarah was not. “I don’t mind going up and down the block,” she said.
Paul said she would do best operating the sag wagon. Sarah eagerly agreed.
A wonderful meal of pasta and salad and an elegy bedroom in their beautiful historic home that dated to the late 1800s.
Makes this tour all the more special.
Earlier in the day in Sullivan, IL, Steve and Richard offered me some solid biking directions at the Red Apple Restaurant.
The kindness of strangers continues to impress me.
Have I not commanded you? … Be strong and courageous. … Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
The 2021 Amazing Ride for Alzheimer’s is raising money this year for music programming for seniors at Cedar Community, a 501c3, so all donations are tax-deductible.
Donate via the secure website through Cedar Community. Donations should be marked “Amazing Ride 2021.” Click HERE to make a secure online donation.
Checks may be made payable to “Cedar Community Foundation” with “Judy Bike Ride” in the memo line and mailed to 113 Cedar Ridge Dr., West Bend, WI 53095
Be sure to include the Federal Tax ID Number for the Foundation: 39-1249432
You may also find a downloadable donation form HERE.
Cedar Community is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, and donations are tax-deductible.