That’s a wrap on the 21st annual ride!

Riders completed the 21st annual Merchants Bank Christian Elder Memorial (CEM) 900 on June 1 and last week the ride’s success was celebrated with supporters at a luncheon at Merchants Bank in Apple Valley. CEM 900 founder John Elder told Sun Thisweek, “Those of us participating in the CEM 900 are proud to ride in memory of Christian Elder and provide a benefit to Kids ‘n Kinship. Christian was familiar with Kids ‘n Kinship — the value they create for the youth community in Dakota County and the dedication of its staff — as I was a mentor to a young boy named Dante, who participated in many of our family events. Christian flew in from his North Carolina home to participate in our welcome home ceremonies each of the first two years we rode. We look forward to more miles and adventures on the pedals, to our welcome home celebration at Merchants Bank, and to presenting a significant donation to Kids ‘n Kinship.”

We are very grateful to all those who donated and to our sponsors Merchants Bank, Elder-Jones, and Single-Ply Systems. It is with their support that the CEM900 is a success each year and can continue to support our community!