PERU, IN – Critically acclaimed Author of “Pedaling on Purpose” will be presenting his historic 10,000 mile, forty-eight state bicycling adventure thru 902 cities and towns that helped him, early on, to springboard the nationwide Make-A-Wish movement that has now meant so very much for hundreds of thousands of children, their families, and volunteers all around the country.
Author, speaker, and cyclist Ken Rogers will bring a gripping firsthand account of his adventure to Peru Church of the Brethren and will be hosted and emceed by Alan Myers.
In 1982 the nation was in the worst economic decline since the great depression. Unemployment was hovering at 10%. Ken Rogers was also well on his way to being awarded the office supply salesman of the year. But Ken was restless and looking for more meaning in his life, and an intense desire to bring more to others than sell scotch tape and file folders. In a single, life-altering moment, he turned on the radio to listen to his favorite radio talk show host Minneapolis Dick Pomerantz, after a sales call.
An interview was wrapping up with a grief-stricken mom and a Department of Public Service spokesman in Phoenix who had helped fulfill her late seven-year-old son’s wish to become a police officer. As the call ended, Ken was overwhelmed in ways no words could describe. When the announcer challenged his listeners – if they could do this in Phoenix, why couldn’t people replicate this all over the country? So began an extraordinary mission and adventure that included Ken quitting his job, the decision to bicycle all forty-eight states, and eventually 902 cities and towns spreading the word of what could be done anywhere through courage to try.
In July 1982 with no cell phones, GPS, physical training, or corporate sponsorship, Rogers and his close friend Steve Anderson set out from Minneapolis on bicycle to do something no one had ever attempted to do, to reach all forty-eight lower states on bicycles. Now inspired by a cause, the two riders undertook their journey to help raise national awareness for wishes to be granted to children with critical illnesses.
Through a life affirming presentation blending humor, stunning photography, and inspiring music Rogers captivates audiences through a journey no one had ever attempted – completed with no prior bicycling experience. His audience will be palpably moved, just as Ken was listening to that first radio interview; caught between rapt attention, tears of gratitude, and motivated to make difference asking themselves, “What can I do to make a difference in the lives of others?”
The evening will close with a live Q and A featuring Kenny giving attendees a chance to ask questions about the ride, the book, and the unique decades-long service to others.
Event Details-
What: Pedaling On Purpose. A presentation with author and cyclist Ken Rogers, hosted by Alan Myers
When: Thursday, November 19, 6:30 PM
Where: Peru Church of the Brethren, 134 E 5th St., Peru, Indiana
Admission: Free