Habitat bike ride planned

The 12th Habitat for Humanity of Wayne County Bike-a-thon is September 20 at 9, with registration beginning at 8:30.

There will be a choice of two routes, both starting and ending at St. Gregory's Catholic Church, 3806 Union Street in Marion.

Bikers on the 40-mile route will ride to a rest stop in Sodus where two Habitat houses are under construction. They will continue their ride though the towns of Williamson, Ontario, Walworth and back to Marion. Bikers traveling this route will 'explore' the 'nooks and crannies' of back country roads, travel by scenic apple groves, and experience cool breezes along Lake Ontario.

A family ride of 12 miles consists of a round-trip loop South of Marion through scenic farm country. Each group will be followed by a sagwagon carrying snacks, fruit and drinks.

All riders will be required to wear a helmet. Youth under 18 must have their registration form signed by a parent and those under 12 must be accompanied by a parent. Unlike other events of this nature, a registration fee is not required, but it is expected that each participant will raise a minimum of $20 from their sponsors.

Habitat for Humanity of Wayne County has built 19 houses in Wayne County since 1988, with two more to be completed this year. It is anticipated that ground breaking will take place this year for a new house in Marion.

The families chosen to reside in these homes must be able to make a down payment and to demonstrate that they can make payments over the years to pay back the full value of the loan. The only difference from a conventional mortgage is that no interest is charged. Each family is required to provide 400 hours of 'sweat equity' time given to help in construction of their own or another Habitat home.

Habitat can build homes inexpensively because most labor is donated time, and many materials and services are contributed at cost. Habitat holds fund raising events, such as the Bike-a-thons, to raise money to help defray these costs.

The churches in Wayne County have been supplied with posters and registration forms, explaining the event and its requirements. These items will also be available at many of the retail establishments throughout the county, for those who are interested.

Call Phil Klingler at 597.3543 for more information.

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