As most of you know Cancer has touched Countryside Industries.  It took the life of our founder, Robert M. Adelizzi in 2004, and I am happy to say the daughter of one of our Vice Presidents has completed her treatments and remains cancer-free after her successful struggle with the disease in 2005.  The battle these individuals have fought has not only reminded me what is truly important, but it has also made me see that these are not individual fights, but fights that affect the entire family. 

The past three years, I asked for the support of our friends, customers and suppliers, and together we have raised over $20,000.00 for a very worthwhile cause, Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation.   With all that said, I ask you again to help me support Bear Necessities.  This organization is one of many outstanding organizations that is committed to helping patients and families, and to helping find a cure.  Please visit their website at http://www.bearnecessities.org to learn more about this great organization.

This year I will complete three Triathlons:  the Lake Zurich Triathlon (August 10), the Pleasant Prairie Triathlon(August 17th) and  the Accenture Chicago Triathlon (August 24).  The first two are approximately the same distance, combining a 1.5K swim, 40K bike and 10K run.  The Chicago event is a Sprint Distance, roughly half the distance of the others.  Although shorter, it might be the most difficult, being the third race in a three-week span.  I'll also be competing with three friends from college, so I am guessing I will be glad it is shorter.  Countryside Industries has agreed to allow me to train again for these and will also donate $500.00 if I don’t complete the races, suggesting that I was too focused on work to train.  Additionally, I will contribute $250.00 of my own money if I do not complete any one of these events.     

I understand that we all support different organizations, so I sincerely ask that you do not allow my position at Countryside Industries to influence your decision to contribute.  Once I complete the races, all donors will be notified.

Thank you for your support and I look forward to many more successful ventures in the future…as long as I survive these Triathlons!