2005 Red Ribbon Ride Kickoff Events

HIV/AIDS has been with us for almost 30 years.  The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recognized that a contagion was spreading across America in 1981.  Although the CDC originally reported it was limited to the homosexual community, it quickly became obvious that the disease knew no boundaries.  It is now believed that there were many deaths from the mysterious disease beginning in the 70’s, but it wasn’t until 1982 that it was given a name - AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).  Scientists identified the virus less than two years later and the HIV (for Human Immunodeficiency Virus) pandemic was the topic of a special meeting of the World Health Organization by 1985.  Since then, millions have died and there is still no cure.  

While more than 500,000 people have died in the United States, statistics show that a million Americans today live with HIV/AIDS (avert.org).  It’s caring for those who are surviving with the disease that caused a group of Minnesotans to create a non-profit organization called “Minnesota Fighting AIDS on Bikes”.  Their goal was to raise needed funds for nine incredible organizations whose programs help those with HIV/AIDS.  Beneficiaries are the African-American AIDS Task Force, AIDS Care Partners, The Aliveness Project, Clare Housing, Hope House of St. Croix Valley, Minnesota AIDS Project, Open Arms of Minnesota, Park House, and Rural AIDS Action Network are focused on supporting the five-thousand Minnesotans diagnosed with the disease and those who care for them.   

The first Minnesota Red Ribbon Ride was held in 2003 as a fundraising and awareness effort.  It followed a model similar to professional rides that preceded it, such as the Minneapolis to Chicago Heartland AIDS Ride that was discontinued in 2002.  There are, however, many differences.  The ride truly is a grass-roots effort that is focused on creating a sense of community for those who are together over a four day period.  This traveling “community” passes through more than 300 miles of Minnesota’s metro and rural neighborhoods - connecting them to the cause and serving as a visible reminder that the struggle against HIV/AIDS continues.  It is like a huge Red Ribbon.  The newly formed organization also set out to return as much of the ride proceeds to the beneficiaries as possible.  In its first year, the Minnesota Red Ribbon Ride raised more money than any other Minnesota biking effort and became an award winning event (for WCCO’s news coverage, non-profit performance, etc.).

Jeff and Rita Nohner have volunteered with many things at St. Joan of Arc. They have been involved with South Africa, Haiti and the Cabaret to name a few.

Rick Spaulding is a photographer specializing in digital photography for the theater and works for National Camera Exchange. He is also an antique dealer and eBay afficianado who enjoys collecting marbles but his true joys in life are his two boys and his beautiful wife, Tinia.

While there are many other rides and fundraising events in the state, the Minnesota Red Ribbon Ride (presented by Chipotle, a major sponsor) remains unique because of its focus and unique experience.  Many at St. Joan of Arc know this since they have been there from the beginning as riders, crew or volunteers.  The SJA team, which has grown to include non-parishioners, has been dubbed ‘TeamOZ’. The TeamOZ kick-off meeting for people interested in participating or learning more was held Sunday, February 6, from 1-3 PM at the home of parishioners Chuck and Joanne Parsons. There is still time to sign up!! Training rides start April 16th. Contact Michael Reinbold, boldview@aol.com or Rick Spaulding at 612.825.3097 and lagniappev@earthlink.net.