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Shopping Guide News Wednesday, August 6, 2025
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Phone 574-223-5417 TAKING A BREAK — Team No. 224 poses for a group photo during a stop at the Kewanna-Union Township Public Library.
Fulton County
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Fulton County hosts riders on
10-YEAR CHARITY TREK Text and Photos By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer A decade after its founding in 2015, Team No. 224’s annual Gateway Ride marked its 10th year as Team West riders departed Fairbury, Ill., for Gateway Woods in Leo, passing through Fulton County along the way. The three-day, 230-mile journey benefits Gateway Woods, a children’s home for troubled youth, located northeast of Fort Wayne. What began in 2015 has grown into two signature rides each year — one benefiting Gateway Woods and another supporting the Midwest Food Bank. In 2025, Team West covered
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approximately 86 miles on day one, 65 miles on day two, and 82 miles on day three. One key stop on the route is Kewanna, where riders take a break each year at the Kewanna-Union Township Public Library. Charles Rude, the library’s long-time director, has coordinated support for the riders since the first ride in 2015. He and community members help organize refreshments, shade, and encouragement. “The Kewanna stop is a special one,” said Team 224 board member, Philip Witzig, riding with Team West. “It’s not just about resting; it’s where you feel the local support firsthand. Charles has been part of this
from the very beginning.” Witzig said his connection to the ride started casually. “I saw all these people wearing (the same) T-shirts, ‘Hey,’ he said he asked them, “‘What are you doing? What does that mean?’” referring to what appeared to be a tightly-knit cycling community. He later learned the ride “raises money for the children’s home,” which he described as “a home for troubled kids … just like a halfway home.” A chance appearance at a Leo auction fundraiser introduced Witzig to the mission, which ultimately inspired his yearly commitment. As the ride undertook its second day, Team West stopped
overnight in Rochester, where organizers had arranged lodging at a local Quality Inn. Witzig noted how participants often rely on camping or modest accommodations to manage the cost. “Camping and stuff is often a large factor … like single-person tents. … Especially when we’re in locally-owned places and around the farming areas.” The ride’s overnight stop in Rochester marks the midpoint, with the third day concluding in Leo. Team 224, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) faith-driven, Christ-centered nonprofit. Its mission follows the teachings of Matthew 25:35–36: “I was hungry … thirsty … a Continued on page 3
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