runners race to 'cruiser' in frantic finish at Union Grove color run
UNION GROVE — Community State Bank’s Neil Buchanan has never been more popular.
In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, Buchanan is making his rounds throughout Racine County schools in CSB’s beloved “Cruiser.” The 1959 Shasta camper is typically staffed by Buchanan and stocked with a variety of free ice cream.
On a warm, sunny afternoon, Union Grove Elementary hosted its annual Color Run on May 6, 2025. Instead of the race ending at the finish line, it extended all the way to "Cruiser" for cool treats.
Buchanan treated hundreds of runners with Bomb Pops, Fudge Pops and Ice Cream Sandwiches.
“It was the longest line we’ve ever had,” said Buchanan, CSB’s Senior VP | Business Banker & Cash Management. “They just kept piling up. It was hilarious. I’ve never seen so many sticky fingers and faces.”
In 2023, "Cruiser" made 315 stops and handed out over 10,000 ice cream bars to celebrate Community State Bank's 125th anniversary. It’s been a staple in the community ever since.
Following Tuesday’s appearance at Union Grove Elementary, "Cruiser" stopped at Raymond Elementary on Wednesday. It’s scheduled to appear at Union Grove High School on Friday.
Buchanan recruited two eighth grade students to “work” the window and pass out ice cream on Tuesday.
“They came over with nothing to do and I said ‘Can you give me a hand?’” Buchanan said. “They did a great job. I was just the support person in back. They were flinging ice cream out of the window as fast as they could.”
The Bomb Pops and Fudge Pops went fast. Students near the end of the line were stuck with ice cream sandwiches, which are a hit with adults but not so much with students.
“Kids don’t like ice cream sandwiches,” Buchanan said. “When I go to the retirement homes, it’s all they want.”
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