Beautiful weather and a large crowd made for a successful fundraiser on Sunday, July 31, when the 7th Annual Bruno’s Remembrance Ride took place.
Nearly 90 motorcycles hit the streets, escorted by the Berrien County Sheriff Department, to raise more than $5,000 for the Bruce Zech Scholarship Fund. Riders returned to the Moose Lodge in Benton Harbor to join with 100 additional supporters for a meal and entertainment throughout the afternoon, all in an effort to support local students attending Lake Michigan and Southwestern Michigan colleges.
The ride is the sole event to raise money for the fund, named after the late Bruce “Bruno” Zech, who was killed in 2005 in an excavating accident. The ride was conceived by Zech’s extended family and friends as a way to honor his memory in a way that contributes to the community, something Zech was known for among his friends and family during his lifetime.
Since 2005, 37 scholarships of $1,000 each have been given in the name of Bruce Zech. So to date, a total of more than $42,000 has been raised.
“I’m just overwhelmed by the generosity of our community,” said Patty Zech, upon totaling this year’s donations. “Every participant has my deepest gratitude for carrying on Bruno’s desire to help others.”
The ultimate goal of the ride is to improve the community by investing in education, one student at a time. Guests this year included Rachel O’Grady, a recent scholarship recipient who spoke about her gratitude and plans for a bright future. Eileen Toney, director of development and executive director of SMC Foundation, announced that the Bruce Zech Scholarship has been established as an endowment, for which Southwestern Michigan College will match all donations.
“We are so excited about this wonderful opportunity that will secure scholarships from the Bruce Zech Scholarship Fund for many years to come,” said Zech.
The 2010 scholarship recipients attending LMC from the 2010 Bruno’s Remembrance Ride are Rachel O’Grady from Eau Claire High School and Matthew Andres from Berrien Springs High School. Recipients attending SMC are Austin Ferenczi, Chantel Danner and Zachary Roberts, all from Brandywine High School.
The 2011 recipients will be determined and awarded in spring 2012.
Those interested in making a donation may make checks to: Southwestern Michigan College Foundation, in memo the Bruce Zech Scholarship Fund, or write to: The Bruce Zech Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 861, St. Joseph, MI 49085 or visit www.brunosride.com or Facebook.