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Iron Maidens invite Fairfield County bikers to saddle up for boot scootin, ’Hair Raisin’ Ride
By Press Release
Jun 24, 2008 - 7:43:51 AM

(photo credit: Karen Stanford): A few members of the Iron Maidens MS Motorcycle Ride team saddle up for a photo op at the first Iron Maidens’ HOG Wild Pig Roast at City Sports Grille in Bristol May 17
When it comes to uniting tires to pavement, no one does it any better than the Iron Maidens. And when it banding together for a worthy cause, again the posse excels. Now the MS Motorcycle Ride team the Iron Maidens & The Band of Brothers is extending an invitation to Fairfield County bikers to join the team, revving up for the 8th annual MS Motorcycle Ride Sunday, Aug. 3, which will this year start and finish at Cadillac Ranch.

“My grandmother suffered from the debilitating effects of multiple sclerosis,” says Karen Butler, team captain. “Never has science been closer to a cure. Researchers and saying we may be as close as 10 years away from a cure for some people with MS. That’s why it’s more important now more than ever that we keep science moving forward. Iron Maidens team members combine a passion for riding with their commitment to community by saddling up each year for the ride.”

Last year the team attracted 15 riders and raised more than $3,000, making it the event’s top fundraising team. To date the team has raised almost $4,000 toward a goal of $6,000.

“We’re inviting Connecticut bikers to team up with us,” says Butler, a resident of Manchester, Conn., who oversees communications with the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter. “Banding together we can make a difference.”

Multiple sclerosis is a potentially debilitating autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. The cause is unknown and there currently is no cure. Symptoms can include, among other things, numbness in the limbs, difficulties with vision and speech, stiffness, loss of mobility and, in some more severe cases, total paralysis. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot be predicted. Funds raised through chapter events, such as the MS Motorcycle Ride, ensure ongoing scientific research to find a cure and the continuation of vital programs and services offered by the chapter to more than 6,000 Connecticut residents diagnosed with MS.

The 2008 MS Motorcycle Ride traverses a 50-mile route through Connecticut’s breathtaking countryside and quaint back roads. The ride features a down home barbeque and finish line activities to include live music, vendors, drawings for prizes and much more.

Fairfield County bikers can learn more about pre-registering and join the Iron Maidens & The Band of Brothers MS Motorcycle Ride team by calling Karen Butler at 860-714-2300, ext. 230, or by e-mailing at kbutler@ctfightsMS.org. The Aug. 3 ride kick starts from Cadillac Ranch at 11 a.m. Cadillac Ranch is located at 45 Jude Lane in Southington.

The 2007 ride raised more than $42,000. This year’s ride is expected to raise about $50,000. Bikers are encouraged to form motorcycle teams and raise funds. Team Web pages can be created at www.ctfightsMS.org. For more information on the 2008 MS Motorcycle Ride, please pick up a copy of Connecticut Cruise News, tune to WFSB-TV Channel 3 Eyewitness News, Country 92.5 FM or visit www.ctfightsMS.org.

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