On Sunday, May 16th, a group of 500 big hearted bikers hit the roads throughout the Tampa Bay area to raise money for local children’s charities. The bikers succeeded in this venture, raising a record amount of $62,000 as they participated in the 6th Annual Credit Union Cruise for Kids Motorcycle Poker Run, sponsored by the Tampa Chapter of Credit Unions.
The bikers revved up their motorcycles at 9:30am that morning, making four “poker stops” at Tampa Harley, Bahama Breeze, Fletcher’s Harley and Jim’s Harley, before ending the ride at the Quaker Steak & Lube Restaurant in Clearwater, FL. There, people turned out for a post-cruise celebration featuring live music by Jester, 50/50, bike contest, live auction and other giveaways.
Stephanie Hall, Director of Telethon/Giving for All Children’s Hospital accompanied two children who have received treatment from the hospital through the Tampa Chapter’s fundraising efforts. Both John Hughes and Charlie McNabb, along with their families joined the festivities and thanked everyone for their support. John Hughes, with a big smile on his face, pulled the 1st and 2nd place winning tickets. David Moralevitz won the grand prize, a $10,000 VISA gift card, sponsored by Fran M. Haasch and Night Hawk Towing & Repossessions, Inc. David picked up his ticket from Carly Rogers at Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union. Second Place winner, Brian Jerkins won a 4-night stay in Moose Creek Crossing Cabins, a biker-friendly resort in Pigeon Forge, TN. Brian picked up his ticket from Jeannie Osborne at Railroad & Industrial Federal Credit Union.
Over six years, the annual Credit Union Cruise for Kids has raised a total of $295,000 for donation to organizations which nurture children, such as The Children’s Home, Clothes to Kids, the Boys and Girls Club, The Ronald McDonald House, as well as All Children’s Hospital and the Pediatric Cancer Center. “I want to thank our sponsors and everyone for their support,” said Sharmon Lenth, President of the Tampa Chapter of Credit Unions. “The money we raised is no easy task in this economy. To me, that demonstrates the commitment our participants have toward this event, and the good causes it supports.”
