The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for the 12th annual Jerry Parins Cruise for Cancer event, set for Saturday, June 13. The event once again features a motorcycle ride, but non-riding fans who want to support the cause are welcome to attend the post-ride party at Lambeau Field.
Since its inception, the event has raised nearly $900,000 for the cause, and this year is expected to reach the $1 million milestone.
This year's ride features a one-way route beginning at Vandervest Harley-Davidson in Peshtigo, with departure to follow a noon ceremony. The ride will then make its way from Peshtigo to Lambeau Field, where the post-ride party will be held for riders and non-riders alike.
Preregistration is $20 per driver and $15 per passenger, and is available in person at Vandervest Harley-Davidson locations in Green Bay and Peshtigo. Those who register before June 6 will have the chance to win a 60-inch high-definition TV.
All registered riders will receive a free Cruise for Cancer commemorative bandana. All proceeds will go toward helping local families throughout Northeastern Wisconsin battling cancer. Last year's recipient organizations included the Angel Classic Inc. (Patient and Family Assistance), Bellin Health Foundation Inc. (Patient Assistance Fund), Fox Valley Brain Tumor Coalition (Patient and Family Support) St. Mary's Hospital (A Woman's Place), St. Vincent Hospital (Child Life Program), St. Vincent Hospital (Compassionate Care Fund) and Unity Limited Partnership (End-Of-Life Specialized Education Program).
On the day of the ride, registration begins at 9 a.m. and will continue through noon at Vandervest Harley-Davidson in Peshtigo. The post-ride party begins at 2 p.m. at Lambeau Field, with parking available on the stadium's west side near the Mills Fleet Farm Gate.
The party will offer food provided by Festival Foods and drinks for purchase, as well as entertainment by the musical group "Hip Pocket," bucket raffles and a live auction while bringing awareness to cancer. Attendees will also have the opportunity to get autographs from Packers players in exchange for a $10 donation to the event.
Interested riders also can raise additional money for the cause and win prizes by enlisting the help of others with the use of a pledge form. Top fundraisers will receive Vandervest Harley-Davidson gift cards. The form and more information are available on the event website, www.cruiseforcancer.org.
Non-riders are invited to support the cause by attending the post-ride party.
Diagnosed with cancer in 2003, Parins was strengthened during his journey by the support he received from his family and friends, and while witnessing families who also were dealing with the effects of the disease. At the time, Parins pledged to help other families dealing with cancer, and thus the Jerry Parins Cruise for Cancer ride was born.
Please visit www.packers.com and www.cruiseforcancer.org for Cruise for Cancer ride and post-ride party details.
