Annual RMH Ride to make stops in Verndale, Wolf Lake

By Chad Koenen

Publisher

Close to a thousand motorcyclists will be decked out in leather chaps, leather jackets, dew rags and a bag full of aluminum pop tabs. At first glance these bikers may not look like a hero, but don’t let their appearance fool you, they have a heart of gold. After all, these bikers are all chipping in their time and money to help make the life of a family in need a little easier. 

This weekend motorcyclists from across the region will converge on New York Mills for the 22nd annual Ronald McDonald House Ride. The motorcycle ride raises well over $100,000 each year for the Ronald McDonald House in Fargo, N.D.  

“People are really excited for it. Definitely,” said Greg Karvonen who helps to organize the event. 

The RMH Ride began in 2002 with just 15 committee members and 15 volunteers. The ride started when a local family was experiencing hardship, while their child was sick and stayed at the Ronald McDonald Charity House of the Red River Valley. 

The first year was a resounding success as the group raised $3,300. In subsequent years the RMH Ride has raised well over $130,000 annually and features close to a thousand bikers. 

Karvonen said part of the reason for the continued success and excitement for this year’s event, is the fact the money raised will benefit the Ronald McDonald House. 

The Ronald McDonald House provides a place for families to stay while loved ones are receiving medical care and always has a pantry full of food. The organization relies 100 percent on donations to operate its program. The proceeds from the RMH Ride directly benefit the Ronald McDonald House in Fargo, N.D.

“I think everyone has known someone who has used the house whether that is personally or through relatives,” said Karvonen.

This is the 22nd year of the RMH Ride in NY Mills. In addition to the riders, there are over 100 people working that day, between the RMH Ride committee, volunteers, as well as at the NY Mills VFW. 

On Saturday, the ride will leave from the NY Mills VFW at 12 p.m. and head down N. Boardman, before heading onto E Centennial 84 Dr. Once the bikers leave NY Mills they will head to Verndale along county roads for its first stop at the Pirates Den. From there, the ride will head up County Road 23, before driving through Hubbard on their way to a second stop in Wolf Lake. After their stop in Wolf Lake the bikers will head back to the NY Mills VFW for a night of fun, entertainment and chance to raise money for a worthy cause. 

As in years past, this weekend will feature a variety of live entertainment and activities for those who attend. On Friday night the 57 Chevy Band will take the stage at the NY Mills VFW, while Rocking Horse Peter will headline a busy Saturday night at the VFW. There will also be a variety of food, a silent auction, a raffle and over 70 acres of camping available to all those who attend.  

In addition to the actual ride, local children will have the chance to participate in one of the largest bike rodeos in the region. The annual RMH Ride Bike Rodeo will begin at 9 a.m. at the NY Mills School. Dozens of bikes will be given away as part of the event, which includes a large obstacle course and opportunity to have their bike checked out for safety. 

For more information about the RMH Ride visit www.rmhride.com