Jacob’s Run set for Saturday
By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
The 5th Annual Jacob’s Motorcycle Run will be held Saturday, Sept. 10.
The first Jacob’s Run was organized after Jacob Sikel, 15 years of age at the time, chose to end his life in 2012. Jacob was the son of Angela Howe and Robert Sikel and his family still has a hard time dealing with the tragedy.
Jacob’s family became involved in the Open Arms Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program following this tragedy and they have gone on to organize motorcycle runs as a way to help others. Motorcycle riders pay for the privilege of participating in the event and the funds raised provide presentations for young people at schools, churches, for First Responders and doctors, as well as veterans and older people.
The program reaches out to help people in crisis, as well as helps teach people to spot signs and get help for people who are struggling and don't know where to turn.
The 2016 run will begin at Spare Time Entertainment in Owatonna. From there the riders will travel to Elysian, Hartland, Myrtle and Blooming Prairie before heading back to Owatonna.
Registration for the event will get underway at 8 on Saturday morning. The cost a single rider is $20 or $25 for a double rider. Don't have a motorcycle? People may also use automobiles. The charge for one individual is $20 and each additional passenger will be charged $5. The fee also includes a meal at the end of the ride. Most generally, riders are back in Owatonna about 4.
The run includes a great number of raffles and drawings. The goal this year is to be able to donate up to ten $500 scholarships for graduates in 2017. Last year, which would have been the year Jacob would have graduated, they were able to award six scholarships.
Riders who pre-registered will be presented with purple 2016 Jacob’s Run T-Shirts, which will bear a special angels wings ensignia on one arm in honor of Kim Fischer, who was a part of the local group and strong supporter, who suffered a heart attack and died in April of this year.
It is hoped that the weather man will provide some good weather and a great group of people will turn out to remember Jacob, as well as help others.