Wayne chapter of the Red Cross will Ride for the Red this Saturday
By Becky Barclay
Published in News on March 22, 2009 2:00 AM
Local motorcyclists will be revving up their engines Saturday to raise money for the local chapter of the American Red Cross. It is part of the Wayne County chapter's annual Heroes Campaign.
The Ride for the Red is sponsored by the Blue Knights International Chapter NC IX, an international organization made up of current and retired law enforcement officers.
Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the riders will depart at 11 a.m. from the Wayne County chapter, 600 N. George St.
Registration is $20 per rider and $10 for a co-rider. The first 150 to register will receive a free T-shirt and meal. Participants will also be able to purchase ride pins for $5.
The fifth annual Ride for the Red is a fundraiser for the Red Cross. Money raised will be used for local services.
Motorcyclists will ride 75 miles around Wayne County, through Mount Olive and Fremont. This year, they will be escorted by the Heroes on Patrol car. The car has a unique custom hand air-brushed paint. The front and sides bear an American flag. There is a large eagle in the center of the hood, surrounded by four ghosted eagles and stars. In 72 of the st`ars are the names of fallen officers from 9-11 terrorist attack. In the eye of the eagle is the reflection of the Statue of Liberty, who watches over the fallen heroes and also those who continue to serve and protect.
The car will be on display before the event for the public to view.
Following the ride, participants will eat lunch at Doug Henry Buick-Pontiac-GMC on U.S. 70, arriving around 1 p.m. There will also be games and door prizes. Disc jockey George Hodgin will provide music.
Last year, the Ride for the Red raised more than $5,000, said Glenn Barnes, coordinator. Due to the slow economy, this year's goal has been set at $5,000, he said.
"We encourage anyone who has access to a motorcycle to come out and ride for this worthy cause," Barnes said. "Anyone can come out and enjoy the fellowship -- and make a donation."
For more information about the Ride for the Red, call 735-7201.