Bikers to raise funds for March of Dimes

AUGUSTA - An estimated 1,800 motorcyclists will join in New Jersey’s March of Dimes Ride fund-raiser on Sunday, June 25, to help fight premature birth - a growing crisis that now affects half a million babies in the U. S. every year. Breakfast and registration will begin at 9 a.m. at the March of Dimes office, located on Route 46 East in Pine Brook. The ride begins at 11 a.m., and will cover 50 scenic highway miles and end at the N.J. Fairgrounds in Augusta. There, a lunch-event sponsored by A&P, will include a pig roast, music, vendors, prizes and more. The ride is open to individuals, club riders, new riders and anyone interested in supporting efforts to reduce premature births. Registration costs $20 per rider and includes breakfast, lunch and an official “Ride” pin. Before participating in the event, riders are encouraged to collect contributions from family, friends and other motorcycle enthusiasts to assist March of Dimes research dedicated to the prevention of premature births, as well as the organization’s community programs that support families affected by them. Premature birth is the leading killer of newborns and a major cause of disabilities. The number of babies born prematurely each year has increased by 30 percent since 1983. In New Jersey, over 14,000 babies are born prematurely every year. “By riding together, we help support March of Dimes research to find the causes of premature birth,” said Eric Claus, A&P president and CEO. “If we don’t join together to fight premature birth, the problem will continue to get worse. Ride is a great opportunity to help save babies by doing something we love.” In 2005, the March of Dimes hosted more than 80 rides across the country, with more than 65,000 participants covering nearly 5,000 miles. All March of Dimes Ride events are certified by the American Motorcycle Association. The 2006, the national Ride sponsor is Kawasaki Motor Corporation. “We’re proud here in New Jersey to have A&P, Rider Insurance, Foremost Insurance, Geico and UPS as local sponsors,” said Peter Backer, Blue Knights member and Ride Chairman. Interested riders can sign up by calling 973-882-0700 or on line at marchofdimesride.org. Many volunteer opportunities are also available for non-riders. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy to save babies. The campaign to address the increasing rate of premature birth was launched in 2003 For information in English, log on to marchofdimes.com. For information in Spanish, log on to nacersano.org.