The number of premature births in this country is on the rise. Experts say there were 460,000 "preemie" births in the country last year. Locally, 267 of the 2,924 babies born weekly are premature. Of those, 23 die before their first birthday.

John Banchy, executive director of the Greater Cincinnati March of Dimes, said a motorcycle ride is set for 10:30 a.m. Sept. 20 to raise money to fight premature births and raise awareness.

"We started this last year and had 850 motorcyclists participating," Banchy said. "We raised $40,000 last year. We expect to have about 1,500 riders this year.''

Riders will gather at the old Oldenburg Brewery, near exit 186 on southbound Interstate 75-71. They will ride 40 miles to the Kentucky Speedway.

"Once we get to the speedway, we will have a chance to go three laps around the track,'' Banchy said.

All March of Dimes Ride events are certified by the American Motorcycle Association.

Banchy said each registered rider/passenger will receive a custom-designed T-shirt.

The agency funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy to save babies. This year, the agency launched a five-year campaign to address the increasing rate of premature birth.

Information: call 769-3588 or e mail (jbanchy@marchofdimes.com).

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Volunteers with the Sigma Omega chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., will conduct an education seminar from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sept. 6 to educate people about the use of seat belts.

The chapter's Buckle Up for Safety community service project will be held at the following sites: St. Stephen A.M.E. Church, Evanston; Jordan Crossing, Roselawn; intersections of Court and Linn, Liberty and Linn, West End; intersection of Red Bank and Madison, Oakley; Showcase Cinemas, Springdale; Kroger store off Mitchell and I-75, St. Bernard; Kroger stores in Hyde Park and Woodlawn; Urban League of Greater Cincinnati building in Avondale;Wal-Mart at Ridge Road, Columbia Township.

Information: 772-2037.

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Allen Howard's "Some Good News'' column runs daily. If you have suggestions about outstanding achievements, people who are uplifting to the Tristate, or organizations, groups and individuals who are volunteering, let him know at 768-8362, at ahoward@enquirer.com or by fax at 768-8340.