BEACON® IMPATIENS BLOG

As we continue to support the National Multiple Sclerosis Society through the Greater Illinois Chapter, we had the opportunity to participate in the 2024 Bike MS event at Kuipers Farm in Maple Park, IL.

^{Ball Horticultural Co.'s own team of "Petal Pushers" ready to ride in the Tour de Farms 2024.}

Over two days, June 22nd and June 23rd, and with 50,000 cyclists with more than 5,000 teams, we were so proud to be part of this event!

^{Stopping by the Wave Van (from left): John Speck. Mike Klopmeyer, Matt Mouw, Todd Frauendorfer, Mary Mouw and Cees Boonman.}

Bike MS is the largest fundraising cycling series in the world. Beacon Impatiens joined Ball Horticultural Company’s own “Petal Pushers” team, which was led by Todd Frauendorfer. Riders could choose from a variety of bike routes: Day 1 offered 25m, 62m, 100m and Day 2 offered 25m and 62m. On the first day, riders braved the heat with temps in the upper 80s and roaring 20-25mph winds.

The Petal Pushers team had more than 30 riders and another six that volunteered at the second rest stop of the day, which was at a farm in DeKalb, IL. Our rest stop featured some amazing-looking flowers, refreshments for bikers, and a special visit from the Wave Van courtesy of Wave® Petunias. According to Todd, “Rest stops are key for those striving to ride the longer distances of 70 or 100 miles. Petal Pushers fundraising for the MS Society also went well with the team being the top fundraiser!”

^{Members of the Petal Pushers Team and volunteers at the Ball Horticultural Co.-hosted rest stop.}

Congratulations to the entire team, as well as all of the participants and volunteers. And help us continue to support this very important cause by including your favorite Beacon Impatiens on your front porch and shade gardens everywhere.

Read more about this year’s partnership at our page “Beacon Shines The Light” or go to www.nationalMSsociety.org.

^{A special shout-out to my 13-year-old who road 62 miles on open roads, massive wind and rough terrain and never quit!}