Ward hits the road for Sonshine Corner

By Traci Storti Wilde
Special to the Pioneer Times
    The weather was perfect last Saturday afternoon as a small crowd of fans watched cyclist Kirk Ward return from his first annual fund-raiser, a bike ride round-trip from Houlton to Easton.
WAITING FOR DAD – Felicity Ward, a second-year student at Sonshine Corner, calmly awaits her dad's return.
    The 84-mile trip reportedly resulted in a net gain of $675 for Sonshine Corner Nursery School, a substantial sum in non-profit terms.  
    Ward first had the idea after biking in the Trek Across Maine, a fund-raiser for the American Lung Association.
    “That [event] is kind of what spurred this on.  I wanted to do something with my gifts,” explained Ward. “I wanted to help my daughter and the kids around the school here.”
    Ward, who has been cycling for about three years, originally proposed the idea to the school's teacher, Leanne Chamberlain.  The response?  “Wonderful!  I said, 'Absolutely!  Are you kidding?'” recalled Chamberlain with glee.
    Ward may be known for cycling, but he is also known for his generosity.
ME, TOO! – First-year student Bode Allen practices his cycling skills on a bike specially decorated for the homecoming. Bode is the son of Allison Willette and Scott Allen.
    “He's such a nice man,” said Melanie Stewart, teacher's assistant.  “He has such a good heart.”
    While the ride to Easton lasted about eight hours, it was brief compared to the Trek Across Maine. This major event runs from Sunday River Ski Resort in Bethel and ends 180 miles away in Belfast three days later.  
    As for the money, Ward and Chamberlain are in agreement: it may be used for markers, crayons, tissues and other mundane supplies, but another idea hovers in the background.  
    “This could be a tough year for many families,” speculated Chamberlain.  In that case, the money may also be used to help students' families with the costs of a potentially difficult winter. 
Cyclist Kirk Ward, right, ends his 84-mile trip at the Houlton Wesleyan Church.
    Sonshine Corner Nursery School is located at the Houlton Wesleyan Church.  While school started yesterday, September 9, there are still openings for the 2008-2009 school year.  Parents seeking more information should contact Chamberlain at the church, 532-9056.