The 2007 Maple Leaf Bike Ride in Carthage is more than just another get-together for four-state cyclists. This year, the Maple Leaf Bike Ride is pushing for everyone in the community to get involved, so events will be offered for those that prefer a park bench to a bike saddle.

“We are delighted to have as many as can come out and participate,” said Dr. Chip Curtis, professor of mathematics, “This would be a great event for campus clubs to participate in as a team.”

Curtis is president of the Joplin Trails Coalition, the local non-profit organization that organizes the Maple Leaf Bike Ride.

“It was founded in 1990 to encourage and support bicycler and pedestrian opportunities in Joplin and the surrounding area,” Curtis said.

Early in the organization’s existence, it developed the Frisco-Greenway Trail. Now, it is working on converting an abandoned railroad into a bike trail, the Ruby Jack Trail and all of the proceeds from this year’s ride will go towards the project.

T.J. Lawson, college student, avid cyclist and barista at Starbucks Coffee Company in Joplin is pushing for his fellow employees to volunteer with him by donating food, drinks and time to the rest stop.

“I’m excited about this thing,” Lawson said with a smile. “I planned on doing the 100 mile ride, but I’ve been told by a friend that I’m not good enough. “

The ride takes place Oct. 13 at Kellogg Lake Park. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and the riders take off at 8:30 a.m. Cyclists will pedal along country roads, choosing from 15-mile, 30, 50, 70 and, new this year, 100-mile rides. Each ride length includes a poker run for the riders. Registration for the 15 mile ride costs $15, others cost $25. Families with children under 16 can enter as a group for $65.