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Steve Smith Benefit Ride


Steve Smith

Sunday, September 14th
9:30 a.m.
Lion’s Park, Town of Stockton
(Corner of Hwy. J and 4th Steet)


The Event: Sponsored by M&I Bank (where Steve's father works), this event combines the fun of a group bike ride with the seriousness of raising money to benefit a young, injured bicyclist, Steve Smith. Before and after the ride, completely voluntary donations will be accepted for the Steve Smith Education Fund, established to help Steve to finish college. (Learn about Steve Smith) After the ride, stick around the Lion's Park for eats (including sandwiches, pie, and beverages) and great socializing with other riders.

Time: Let's gather at 9:15 am, so we can leave promptly at 9:30 am.

The Ride: We'll have routes of various distances mapped out to accommodate all levels of cyclists, probably 15-, 25- and 40-mile route options. We'll ride on the great, rural, lightly travel roads of eastern Portage County. Maps will be provided prior to the beginning of the rides.

Food and Drink: Please stay after the ride for post-ride food and beverages provided by M&I Bank.

Directions: The ride will start at Lion’s Park in the Town of Stockton. Map Lion's Park is at the corner of Co. Hwy J and 4th Street, aproximately 6 miles southeast of Stevens Point. Take Porter Road/5th Street east from Whiting to Co. Hwy J, turn south on J for one mile. The Park is on the southeast corner just past J on 4th Street.


Things to Remember:
  • The course will not be marked on the road.
  • You will be responsible for getting yourselves back to the start point. You will need to rely on a map if you fall back from, or get out in front of the group.
  • Even though we will be riding on country roads, remaining single file or at most two abreast and on the right side of the road shows respect for motorists, represents our club well and is highly recommended.
  • And as always, certified helmets are required to be worn when riding at all Heartland sponsored events.
Event Host:

Greg Tamason gtamason@charter.net (715) 486-3017



Lightening Strikes Family Twice

In 2004, Bill and Kathy Smith’s daughter, Melissa was in a traffic accident, and was left paralyzed from the waist down. Melissa is 24 years old.

On May 15, 2008, Bill and Kathy’s only other child, Steve, 22 years old, was training for a bicycle race when he was involved in a traffic accident. Steve suffered a severe spinal cord injury leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. He also suffered facial fractures and a broken wrist. His physical rehabilitation is yet to begin but even as he deals with his physical healing he is already setting goals for himself.

Steve is pursuing a degree in graphic design at UWSP, and he is planning to continue his education as soon as he is physically able. The cost of Steve’s ongoing medical care and education will be substantial. The Steve Smith Education Fund has been established at the M & I Bank. If you are able to help, please make a check payable to the “Steve Smith Education Fund” and send to:

     M & I Bank
     Attn: Jan Thurier
     P.O. Box 8
     1245 Main Street
     Stevens Point, WI 54481


Thank you for caring.
Terry and Karla Rothmann
M&I Bank