Chairman Diaz to host first Autism Awareness Motorcycle ride event

MIAMI-DADE – In observance of Autism Awareness Month, Miami-Dade County Commission Chairman Jose “Pepe” Diaz, along with Vice Chairman Oliver Gilbert III, Commissioner Raquel Regalado, the Dan Marino Foundation, Peterson’s Harley-Davidson South, the Cartel Baggers, and other motorcycle clubs, will host the first Autism Awareness Motorcycle Ride on Sunday, April 18, at the Stephen P. Clark Center (SPCC), 111 NW 1st St. (on the south side of the building). Kickstands will go up at 11 a.m.

Riders wanting to take part in this event can pre-register online at www.danmarinofoundation.org/ride. Registration is $20 per rider, and all proceeds will benefit the Dan Marino Foundation. In accordance with COVID-19 safety guidelines, all participants and volunteers must wear facemasks and practice social distancing. Chairman Diaz, a longtime advocate for autism awareness, sponsored the 2009 County Commission resolution that declared April as Autism Awareness Month in Miami-Dade County to raise awareness about autism and treatment and encourage early testing for children.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that impairs communication skills and social abilities. There is no known cause or cure for autism, which is estimated to affect 1 out of every 59 children born in the United States.

Media availability will be at 10:30 a.m. with Chairman Diaz, members of the Board of County Commissioners and Dan Marino.