Spokes Group raises money for bicycles
By From staff reports
Published in News on September 20, 2015 1:50 AM
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Participants in The Spokes Group Golf Classic are seen outside the clubhouse at Walnut Creek.
The first time was a success for The Spokes Group of Eastern North Carolina.
On Tuesday, the organization held its inaugural golf classic at Walnut Creek Country Club in hopes of raising money to purchase bicycles and helmets for underprivileged children in eastern North Carolina this Christmas.
Angela Hill, Spokes Group director of operations, said the event helped raise the funds they needed to meet their goal.
"We had a goal of 500 bicycles and helmets and the tournament helped us raise the money for the bikes, which will be delivered to our headquarters this week. " Hill said. "It was absolutely amazing how many people came out--we had 62 golfers and I've never seen so many people being this supportive. It just gives you the feeling that there are still plenty of unselfish, good-hearted individuals who care about the children in eastern North Carolina."
Golfers from as far away as Washington, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, Indiana and Tennessee, as well as local companies and people, participated in the tournament. Among those companies were Dan Wise Chevrolet in LaGrange, First Christian Church in Goldsboro and Goldsboro Builders.
Last year, the organization provided 350 new bicycles and helmets to children in eastern North Carolina through the Salvation Army.
Kathy Woodard, owner of Woodard Realty, was among the group of golfers with Dan Wise of Dan Wise Chevrolet as her partner.
"It was a wonderful event and a lot of fun was had by all that participated," Woodard said. "We can't wait until next year."
Benton Satterfield, a member of The Spokes Group board, also volunteers with the Salvation Army. He said he assisted with the tournament by installing flags and getting clubs from the parking lot to the carts, and also had high praise for the way the event was set up.
"I've been to a lot of tournaments and I've never seen one so well run," Satterfield said. "They had been working on the idea for a long time and it was a great thing to see. All of eastern North Carolina in due time will be greatly appreciative of what The Spokes Group is doing as far as underprivileged children getting bicycles -- the whole program has been very rewarding for those receiving benefits and those assisting."
A clown shoe putt event was held during the tournament for golfers to take a break and find their inner child. The laughter and smiles brightened what was already a beautiful day.
Walter Cannon, founder of the organization, stated that this is near and dear to him, and he is very pleased with the support it has received.
The Salvation Army was also present during the event to say thanks to those participating and making this possible.
For those looking to donate, checks can be mailed to 4684 Hwy. 70 West, Kinston, NC 28504.
Also, donations can be sent by card at spokesgroupenc.org.