Beautiful weather provided for a perfect atmosphere and biking conditions for the Fun Ride for the Train at Soden’s Grove Saturday morning.
The Fun Ride for the Train is an any-distance, donation-only bicycle ride put on by Team Schnak. Kent Schnakenberg of Team Schnak explains the group’s involvement with the fundraiser.
Cyclists began riding down to Soden’s Grove around 8:00 am, with the launch of the ride beginning around 9:00 am at the All Veteran’s Memorial. Participant Gary Post says he’s elated to be able to support the train’s legacy.
The miniature train began carrying passengers at 11:00 am on Saturday morning. The train has been operating in Emporia since 1958, and with that blessing of longevity comes the need for continued repairs to both the train and tracks. Recently the area has been battling constant flooding from frequent and heavy rainfall causing the Cottonwood River to rise above its banks. Sertoma Club member Mark Summey updates repair progress.
All donations will go to the benefit of the Sertoma Club of Emporia to assist with the maintenance and upkeep costs of the miniature train in Soden’s Grove. A preliminary fundraising total has totals coming in around $1,500. For more information on the Sertoma Club, visit www.emporiasertoma.org or find the club on Facebook.
Photos and videos by Devon Swartz/KVOE News
{gallery}090719 Free Ride for the Train{/gallery}
