The Key West City Commission on Wednesday proclaimed January 20th Smart Ride Day

On Saturday, cyclists from all over the state will undertake a grueling two day, 165 mile trek from Miami to Key West to raise money for seven AIDS service organizations. The annual event raises awareness and results in much needed funding that helps bring vital services to those who need medical care, pharmaceutical assistance, housing and dental care.

 “This is a very important event for Florida,” said Scott Pridgen, executive director of AIDS Help, Inc. “The Mile Marker Team is made up of 23 riders and 17 crew from Monroe County. This dedicated group of folks is a number one team in Florida. They’ve raised $100,000 for Monroe County.”

 The ride, which was postponed due to Hurricane Irma, ends at the Edward B. Knight Pier AIDS memorial. These individuals ride to prove to themselves they cannot be easily taken by the disease and that they cannot — and will — not forget those who have passed.

 “We’re still looking for a cure,” said Pridgen. “We’re still hoping for a vaccine. One day we’ll have it, but today we ride.

 In the photo: Mayor Craig Cates, Commissioners Jimmy Weekley and Richard Payne and Margaret Romero, riders Jim Gilleran Jerry Hughes and Karen Frank-Knoll, AIDS Help Director Scott Pridgen, Rider Don Dotzauer, and Commissioners Sam Kaufman, Billy Wardlow and Clayton Lopez.

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