Wicked Witches Bar & Grille in Harmar is gearing up for its 14th annual Ride Now for Autism motorcycle run in July.
The charity ride attracts hundreds from across the country on a 100-mile ride to raise funds for the Autism Society of Pittsburgh. There are two to three stops, depending on how far riders go.
Michelle Meade, owner of Wicked Witches, said she wanted to have an event for a friend whose nephew has autism.
“Everybody has someone or knows someone that is affected by autism,” Meade said.
Megan Copeland, one of the committee members for the event, said the ride has never seen less than 300 riders.
“It went from being called a ride to the ride. That’s how big it is,” she said.
This year’s ride will be extra special, as it will honor the founder and Meade’s mother, Carol Meade-Reese, who died on Christmas Day. Meade-Reese opened Wicked Witches in 2000. At the bar, Meade-Reese was referred to as the “monarch” and was considered a mother to everyone she came across.
The group is hoping for an even bigger turnout in Meade-Reese’s memory. The ride is a celebration of life, Copeland said.
“It was always important to her, and I know her presence will definitely be felt,” Copeland said.
Last year’s ride was in honor of a friend of the bar who died of covid. More than 460 riders attended the event, which raised $11,000.
Registration begins at 10 a.m., and kickstands go up at noon. Cost $20 per person and $30 for couples and nonriders. After the run ends at 5 p.m., there will be a Chinese auction, 50/50 raffle and live music by Tina Daniels and Randall Troy.
All proceeds will benefit the Autism Society of Pittsburgh.
Meade said the location is not disclosed until close to the day of the ride.
Donations can be dropped off or mailed to Wicked Witches Bar & Grille, attention Michelle Meade, Ride Now for Autism, 919 Freeport Road, Cheswick, PA 15024.
For questions or to inquire about preregistering for the event, email autismrundonations@gmail.com.
