Why We Ride

Kristin Callahan, Captain of Team Mrs. B

We ride in memory of Maureen Bolognese aka Mrs. B., who was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who was also a vibrant, active, retired teacher. She was enjoying life when she developed slurred speech and progressive weakness.  It was a devastating day, when we heard the words, “Mrs. Bolognese, you have ALS” from Dr. Robert Brown.  From that day forward, Maureen fought the disease as best she could with determination, love, faith and humor.  She brought so many wonderful people together, who loved and cared for her deeply.  She sadly died from respiratory complications on November 23, 2015.  In her memory and for those suffering from ALS, we decided to form a team and ride to raise money for the ALS Association. The ALS Association was so wonderful and supportive during her entire illness.  Pep, her loving and doting husband, was her angel on this earth caring for her every need right to the very end.  Mrs. B’s great-nephew, Tyler wanted to ride to honor his aunt, who spent many hours helping him learn to read.  They had a wonderful relationship and they loved each other so much.

We are planning on riding again in 2018 and are looking forward to it immensely.

Peter Nelson, Captain of Team Beson

We are TEAM BESON -- Jon Leibowitz, Melanie Nelson and Peter Nelson. We are tiny but mighty! This is our 5th consecutive year Riding to Defeat ALS. We ride in honor of Mike Beson, Peter's step-brother who passed away in 2013 at the age of 61. Mike was a great athlete, coach and teacher, truly an inspiration to all. TEAM BESON won't stop pedaling until there's a cure!