Miller Lite Ride for the Arts

The United Performing Arts Fund moved closer to its $9.3 million 2010 campaign goal as almost 6,500 bike riders saddled up and raised close to $335,000 during the 2010 Miller Lite Ride for the Arts. Six separate rides, 75-, 65-, 43-, 25-, 12- and a 5-mile family version rolled out from the Summerfest grounds Sunday morning and when it was finished the riders gathered for a finish line party like none other.

Singers from the Florentine Opera, swing dancers from Wildspace Dance Company and readings by Isabelle Kralj and Mark Anderson of Theatre Gigante entertained the tired riders enjoying food and drink provided by a variety of Wisconsin-based companies.  A musical instrument petting zoo attracted the little kids, while the teenagers gathered at the quarter-pipe for skateboard and BMX bike demonstration.

And even with a cool, cloudy start the riders ended the ride under bright sunshine, warmed by the arts that make Milwaukee a home to be proud of.