Riding for a Cause: The MS 150 Bike Ride
By Kristine Miosek | Finance Controller
In the vast region of Minnesota’s scenic landscapes, cyclists gather annually for an event that transcends mere recreation. The MS 150 Bike Ride is not just about pedaling through picturesque routes; it’s about making a difference in the lives of those affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). I want to give you a snip-it into the lives of some of the people I hold dearly, and what this bike ride means to us and our family.
If you don’t know about the MS 150 Bike Ride, it’s time you get to know about it! The MS 150 Bike Ride originates back to the 1980s when cyclists in Houston, Texas, organized the first ride to raise funds for MS research. Since then, this noble initiative has spread across the United States, with Minnesota emerging as one of its most passionate supporters. In Minnesota, the event typically spans two days, covering a distance of 150 miles from Proctor to the Twin Cities. While on this ride, cyclists will head towards the Willard Munger State Trail to experience the northern hardwood forests, lakes and bogs. There are festivities including food, drinks, and live music on the grounds of Grand Casino Hinckley before riding back to the finish line in White Bear Lake, MN on day two.
At the heart of the MS 150 Bike Ride lies a powerful mission: to support individuals and families affected by MS. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to a range of debilitating symptoms. Funds raised through the MS 150 go towards research efforts aimed at finding a cure for MS, as well as providing vital support services for those living with the condition.
What sets the MS 150 apart from other cycling events is the sense of community it fosters. Participants, ranging from seasoned cyclists to first-time riders, come together with a shared sense of purpose. Along the route, riders encounter cheering spectators, volunteers offering refreshments, and fellow cyclists sharing words of encouragement. The camaraderie is notable, creating an uplifting atmosphere that launches riders forward, mile after mile.
Every cyclist in the MS 150 has a story to tell. Some ride in honor of loved ones battling MS, while others ride as a testament to their own resilience in the face of adversity. Each pedal stroke represents a triumph over challenges and a commitment to making a positive impact. Amidst the physical exertion and occasional setbacks, riders draw strength from the collective spirit of solidarity that defines the MS 150 experience.
I personally have not yet ridden the 150-mile trek for MS, although I’ve supported my husband, Mike, each year he has embarked on this journey. His first year, he decided to ride 300 miles to support the cause. He took a 1970’s Schwinn and rode from St. Paul to Duluth, MN then all the way back, alongside his teammates and participants in the event. Talk of the ride generated such a ripple-effect, that word made it all the way back to his hometown paper. This year, he’s taking the same bike he did that first year (over 10 years ago) and venturing into the 150-mile race, once again.
Mike has ridden for many years, but this year hits a little differently for us. Only a short few months ago, we became aware that our soon-to-be sister-in-law, Emily, was diagnosed with MS. This unpredictable journey is just the beginning for their family. At the very same time, they are just starting their journey together as a family as our brother, Elijah, and Emily are set to be married this coming October. Elijah is biking the MS 150 for the first time this year, while joining his brother, Mike, to raise awareness, funds, and support for multiple sclerosis. Time will tell how MS will affect her and their lives. But our family will be there, supporting her and their family, every step of the way.
If you felt moved by this article, and would like to know more about MS or how to donate, consider making a donation to my husband’s team “Schwinning” at: https://events.nationalmssociety.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.team&teamID=70018
Information about the MS 150 Bike Ride can be found on the Nation Multiple Sclerosis Society at: https://events.nationalmssociety.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=cms.page&id=7014&eventID=1713
Volunteering Opportunities in 2024
Join Logisolve as we volunteer at the Flourish Food Market every first Wednesday of each month throughout 2024. We’re seeking volunteers from our network to support various shifts, available from 11 AM to 1 PM and from 1 PM to 3:30 PM. There’s dedicated workspace on-site, which can be used before or after either shift. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the Minneapolis community. If you’d like to learn more or want to sign up for a shift, please reach out to Ben Hoffman at bhoffman@logisolve.com. Your interest and consideration are greatly appreciated!
We’re thrilled to welcome new additions to our team this June!
- Varsha S – Data Transformation
- Stephanie E – Business Transformation/BSA/PM (new project)
- Gary M – Data Trasnformation/Data Modeler (new project)
- Bruce G – Business Transformation/Sr. PM
- Brandon D – Data Transformation/BSA (new project)
- Stephen C – Business Transformation/Business Architect (new project)
Available Positions
If you have individuals in your network that may be a fit for any of the positions below, this is a great time to make a referral. Use our referral email address: referrals@logisolve.com
Below are our most active Client Opportunities; contact us for more information! There are additional positions posted on our website: http://www.logisolve.com/positions.aspx
Project Management
- IT PM/SM – Financial/Insurance industry experience – Hybrid, Minneapolis
- IT Sourcing Analyst – Hybrid, St Paul
Business Analysis
- Sr. Configuration Analyst – ALIP experience – Remote
- Business Analyst – Salesforce Sales Cloud – Hybrid, Bayport