SEPTEMBER 9, 2010 ISSUE
Toys-4-Tots Run for Needy Avery County Families September 18
Jerry Calloway and Tommy Burleson, organizers of Avery County’s Toys-4-Tots run, are calling on all High Country bikers to turn up in Newland on Saturday, September 18, to take part for the third year in a row in the event to benefit needy children.
Registration for the ride starts at 9:00 a.m., and the toy run leaves at 11:00 a.m. The ride will leave from the Church of Jesus Christ at Riverwalk in Newland and tour to Linville along the Blue Ridge Parkway to Little Switzerland and then by Cranberry back to Newland.
Calloway, who along with Burleson started up Avery County’s Toys-4-Tots run two years ago after participating several times in the one for Yancy County, said, “We are hoping to have a good turnout this year. It would be awesome if we had 100 riders or better.”
Calloway works for Avery County Emergency Medical Services, and Burleson works with Blue Ridge Propane, where Calloway also works on his days off.
Calloway said that he and Burleson were astounded when the first run two years ago attracted more than 100 riders, but last year’s participation was down because of bad weather. This year, in case of a repeat of the rain, an alternative date is September 25.
Riders can either bring a toy valued at $15 or pay a rider fee of the same amount. Organizers will collect all proceeds—toys or fees—during registration, and the Avery County Ram’s Rack and Partnership for Children will use the proceeds to set up a store in the First Baptist Church in Newland around December 1 where needy families will be able to pick up toys and clothing for Christmas.
On the day of the run there will be door prizes for the riders and a 50/50 drawing at the end of the nearly 70-mile ride. Free food will also be available, while local musician Carl Greiwisch will provide music throughout the event.
For more information, call Jerry Calloway at 828-765-2098 or Tommy Burleson at 828-387-1400.
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