They had approximately
144 register bikes this year almost doubling last years registration
of 88. Many bikers had riders so the numbers were fantastic!
They estimate they drew more than 225
people in total for the after party that was held at the Holyoke Lodge
of Elks at the end of the ride. There, they were greeted with
tons of great food, a live band, EQUINOX, who donated their time and talents to
the fundraiser, and many, many raffle prizes and a even a 50/50 drawing.
The ride started out
at the shelter (Thomas J O'Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center)
and continued to the Quabbin Reservoir in Ware. At the Quabbin the bikers were
able to take a break and were greeting with beverages (soda and water)
purchased by the volunteers. From the there, the ride made a loop
around the Quabbin through South Hadley and headed to the Elks Lodge in
Holyoke. All in all, it was an 89 mile ride!
Roughly, $13,000 was raised!! Nearly doubling what theymade on last years run... Nice job!
Said Lisa from TJ O'Connor, "We would like to
thank the Springfield PD, Ludlow PD, Belchertown PD, South Hadley PD
and Holyoke PD for donating their services in ensuring all our riders
stayed safe passing through intersection!!!!
Our MAJOR donors
were: Teddy Bear Pools and Spas, Florence Savings Bank, Chicopee
Savings Charitable Foundation, The Valley Advocate, Keller Williams,
Sharyn Holstead, Bob Carroll, Dr. John Perdrizet, Diane Gould, B and B
Real Estate, and Resnic and Beauregard Waite and Driscoll: Attorneys
at Law."
The key organizers
for this event were: Lisa Margree, Sarah Rohan, Beth Brogle, Tammy
Howe, Diane Gould, Sue Desmarais, Patty Desrosches, Pauline Bragg, and
Donna Taylor. Nice job by all!
I asked Lisa for a story or two from the day. "The best story of the
day was to see a dog who had been recently adopted from the shelter
(about 3 days prior) at the Holyoke Elks. He had been patiently
waiting to be adopted for a couple of months. It reminded all of
us why we go to work everyday or volunteer. HE even showed up in a
convertable. You will see him in the video!!! Now THAT'S a dogs
life!!!"
If folks would like
to make a donation, they can send it to 627 Cottage Street,
Springfield, MA 01104. Please be sure to make if out to TJO
FOUNDATION. All monies will go toward animal care only!!!!