By Jennifer Eisenbart
Editor
After a day filled with farm-like activities – riding horses, fishing and even a hayrides – 30 youngsters gathered at a shed at the back of Art Naber’s farm Saturday.
And, as Rick Tinder explained the final part of the day, no summer is complete without a bike.
The doors to the shed opened, and 30 children got one final surprise on top of what many described as a perfect day – free bicycles for everyone.
United Way, working with Merrill Lynch of Burlington and a core group of volunteers, coordinated the “Day On the Farm” as well as the bike giveaway. More than 100 people were there between parents and guardians, volunteers and children.
“I couldn’t be happier with how the event turned out,” said Colleen Benkendorf, Investor Relations Manager for United Way of Racine County, and also one of the organizers of the event.
“I think everyone had a great time,” Benkendorf added. “The kids were all so appreciative. It is very rewarding to see a child smile.”
The Burlington United Way Action Committee started planning the event a few months ago, with children being referred to the organization by the Burlington Area School District, St. Mary’s Grade School and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.
After a picnic lunch, the children got a chance to fish in a small pond on Naber’s property along Highway A in the Town of Burlington, ride horses in a pen and take a hayride around the property.
The big surprise, though, was the bikes. In addition to the bikes, each child received a lock, and a helmet donated by Habush, Habush and Rottier.
Tinder and other Merrill Lynch staff assembled the bikes as a team-building exercise, with Bob Koldeway of Bob’s Pedal Pusher on hand to verify the bikes were assembled properly. Merrill Lynch was the main event sponsor.
“We presented the idea and it took off from there,” said Tinder. “Without (United Way’s) suggestions, organizational skills and network of volunteers, this event would have never taken place.
“We wanted to make a difference for children,” Tinder added.
Adrian Weithaus could not believe the generosity.
“That’s amazing. It’s absolutely amazing,” she said. “It’s amazing that they do that for the children. Take time for them, take time out.”
At least one of the children agreed.
“I was like, ‘awww!!’ I was like so happy!” Sage Montgomery-Pangborn said. “Now my mom (doesn’t) need to buy anything for me for Christmas or my birthday or anything.”
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