Thieves Can't Deflate Biker's Quest

It's something she always wanted to do her whole life. Sixty-seven-year-old Patricia Starr arrived in Niagara Falls, New York after a trek of more than 3,000 miles on her bicycle. Her journey began on the West Coast of the United States as part of the America By Bicycle Tour.

Cyclists raise money for their favorite charities. In Patricia's case she's trying to raise $22,000 for the Santa Barbara City College. So far her pedaling has produced $7,500 in donations. But Sunday morning it appeared her quest suffered a serious setback. During a stop in Brantford, Ontario, thieves stole the van that's been her home away from home. Ontario police later found the vehicle torched.

Patricia's husband Gabriel Gonzales feels devastated by the experience: "I was able to feed her, cool her down on the road. I was able to keep her going."

But keep on going is what the couple intends to do. As much as they feel the loss of their van, they're not going to let it stop their quest to raise the money for Santa Barbara City College. Patricia WILL pedal the remaining 500 miles. The money raised will help young people get scholarships at the college for years to come.

Some people who've heard her story would like the couple to leave our area with a better experience. If you'd like to make a contribution to their charity or read more about Patricia's quest, just click on the link in the box at right.