Continuing benefit
The annual Girlfriend Ride has become a must-do event for a lot of women — many of whom are bicycle enthusiasts. Courses of 16 and 26 miles through Bartholomew County, wine tasting and snacking have become a great way to support a good cause.
The event benefits displaced women and children served by Love Chapel, and the ninth edition on June 24 proved enjoyable and beneficial once again.
Love Chapel offers a food pantry and housing assistance for people at risk of being evicted or foreclosed. The assistance of participants and volunteers in the Girlfriend Ride is to be commended, as it helps ensure that Love Chapel has the support it needs to fulfill its purpose.
Applauding academic success
Kudos to Columbus North High School for earning a 2016 Advance Placement Award from the state Department of Education for its success with students taking AP classes and exams.
Schools had to have at least 25 percent of their 2016 graduating class receive a score of 3 or a 4 on an AP exam to earn the designation. Good AP scores helps students earn college credit and get a better head start on higher education.
The designation that North earned is an indication that its AP classes and teachers are doing their part to help students, and the students are taking the opportunity seriously.
Quite a ride
A sixth annual charity motorcycle ride to benefit the Columbus Fireman’s Cheer Fund kicked into a higher gear this year, which is good news for children.
The 100-mile ride on June 24 had 86 motorcycles, 100 participants and raised $1,600 after expenses. Last year it drew 80 participants and raised between $200 and $300, because of higher expenses.
Event proceeds benefit the Cheer Fund, an annual Christmas assistance program that has provided children with toys, clothing and other goodies each December. Thanks to the assistance of organizers, volunteers, participants and the American Bikers Aimed Toward Education (ABATE), which works to promote motorcycle safety and protect their rights and help others, local children will have en even better Christmas.
