Several years ago, Fr. Jim Cassidy and Dan Chouinard rode their 1st bicycle ride with the goal of raising money for AIDS research and patient care. Jim felt that this endeavor was consistent with St. Joan of Arc's mission and enlisted parishioners to join him in following years. The SJA based riding team was dubbed Team Oz and participation peaked in 2001 to over 100 parishioners involved. The Heartland AIDSRide broke up after the 2002 ride due to financial problems(read our story). Through the efforts of many, including SJA members, a new ride debuted in 2003, The Minnesota Red Ribbon Ride with a goal of maximizing financial return and keeping the money in our state(read our story). This year, photographer Rick Spaulding is sending back daily photos via his cell phone. Michael Reinbold and Janice LaDuke will file reports upon their return.
This website provided daily coverage of the final 3 Heartland AIDS Rides and the first two Red Ribbon Rides. To view the coverage, click these links:



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