Charity bike ride prepares for fifth year

In August, AIDS Community Services of Western New York will once again participate in the fifth annual Empire State AIDS Ride.

The Buffalo Wings Team, along with about 100 other bicyclists from across the country, will leave Niagara Falls on Aug. 12 and make its way to New York City, crossing the finish line on Aug. 18 after a meandering route totaling 560 miles.

In preparation, members of the team are recruiting more riders for the ride. To participate, contact Colden Ray at 847-0340, ext. 323 or go to EmpireStateAID SRide.org.

The 2007 fundraising minimum is $3,500. Registration forms are available on the Web site or at AIDS Community Services. The Empire State AIDS Ride provides bike mechanics, full road support, a medical team, tents and group campsites with catered meals.

The nonprofit Empire State AIDS Ride was founded by former Snyder resident Marty Rosen. Last year the ride raised more than $280,000 for AIDS organizations in Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and New York City.

AIDS Community Services of Western New York serves more than 1,500 men, women and children dealing with the consequences of HIV/AIDS. The case load has doubled in just four years. Money raised is used for prevention, care and research - keys to ending the epidemic, according to the organization.