By TOM LAVIS
TLAVIS@TRIBDEM.COM
As many as 500 motorcyclists from North America are expected to gather in Somerset on Aug. 20 to begin preparations for a tribute ride to all three crash sites associated with the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks.
Local volunteers associated with America’s 9/11 Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization based in Leesburg, Va., dedicated to supporting active police, fire and emergency medical services personnel, are spearheading efforts to honor those who died and to support survivors.
Organizers are encouraging the public to come to Somerset on Aug. 20 to be part of the activities leading up to the tribute ride.
“Riders from all over the United States and Canada will arrive in Somerset to begin the tribute run,” said Christa L. Statler of Daisytown, organization vice president. “We expect 500 in Somerset and will pick up approximately 150 more on the way to New York.”
Rider registration will be held from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Quality Inn, 215 Ramada Road in Somerset near the turnpike entrance.
Cost of the ride is $100 with proceeds supporting emergency service causes designated by the foundation.
“We also have donated $120,000 in support of scholarships to the children of first responders,” Statler said. “We want people to come out to the Quality Inn and meet and greet the riders and show support for America.”
Statler stated this would be an opportunity for people who have never been to the site to take advantage of special tours on Aug. 20.
Police will escort guided tours as they depart from the Quality Inn to the Flight 93 site at 4, 5 and 6 p.m.
Local bagpiper Ed Hritz will play at the Flight 93 memorial.
The Flight 93 Memorial Chapel near Friedens will be open from 4 to 8 p.m.
Also in support of riders, Highland Harley-Davidson, 802 N Center Ave., Somerset, will have mechanics available until 9 p.m.
Representatives of America’s 9/11 Foundation Inc. will address safety and fueling procedures concerning the ride and associated events during a meeting at the Quality Inn.
Ground Zero, a local band, will perform at the hotel from 8 to 11 p.m.
“This is a chance to support those people who put their lives on the line every day for our safety,” Statler said.
At 7:30 a.m. Aug 21, riders will depart from Highland Harley-Davidson for the Pentagon.
On Aug. 22, riders will travel to New York City’s Ground Zero.
Information: www.Americas911ride.org.
In honor of
What: Motorcycle tribute ride to all three crash sites associated with 9/11 terrorist attacks.
When: Rider registration from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 20.
Where: Quality Inn, 215 Ramada Road, Somerset.
Cost: $100.
Information: www.Americas911ride.org.
