Bay Area Reporter - October 12, 2000
Terry Beswick

This Sunday, October 15, over 200 motorcyclists from all over the Bay Area plan to burn some rubber for Shanti from San Francisco to the Russian River in the "Fourth Annual Ride for Life."

And on Thursday evening, October 19, Shanti expects "about 500 business executives, donors, and friends" to wine and dine their way through "The Power of Caring," the nonprofit group's annual volunteer awards ceremony.

In addition to honoring several of their volunteers and benefactors, celebrants will mark the agency's 26 years of providing emotional and practical support to people with HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening and chronic illnesses with a diverse array of services and training programs. Hank Plante, co-anchor of Channel 5 Eyewitness News, has been named "honorary starter" of this year's "Ride for Life" event, which kicks off at 16th and Valencia Streets in San Francisco. From there, biker men and women will head north across the Golden Gate Bridge to the Russian River where participants will enjoy a hearty lunch at the Northpoint Restaurant in Monte Rio.

Last year's bikers raised over $30,000 for Shanti, and event organizers report that the event's success has helped the $4 million agency to expand its client base beyond people with HIV/AIDS to people with other life-threatening illnesses, as well as the frail elderly.

Riders pay a $25 donation to enter the event, but the bulk of funds are raised by riders who collect pledges from friends, family, neighbors, and associates. Corporate and business sponsors have helped to underwrite costs with cash sponsorships, services, and advertising space.

For information about the ride or to register, call Ron Perri at Shanti at (415) 674-4720, or e-mail rperri@shanti.org, or visit www.shanti-rides.org.

While leather and studs are di rigeur for the ride, "power outfits, of course" are recommended at Thursday's "Power of Caring" event at the Old Federal Reserve Bank Building at 301 Battery Street in San Francisco. The fete begins at 6 p.m. with a reception, followed by an food and wine tasting coordinated by Massimo Catering and featuring some of Northern California's finest wineries. At 7:45, the Golden Gate Men's Chorus will begin the awards ceremony honoring donors and volunteers, followed by the 11-piece Cuban dance band, Orquestra La Moderna Tradicion.

Community awardees are Joan and Ralph Lane Jr., while inspirational service volunteer awardees are Gladys Canizalez, Michael Lynch, Alex Martinez, and Ed Noble.

Tickets for "Power of Caring" are $175, and there is free validated parking at One Embarcadero Center. To reserve tickets, donate, or volunteer, call (415) 674-4764, or visit www.powerofcaring.org.

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