News Releases

Motorcycle Ride Rolls Toward a Cure for Cancer

Power of Hope Ride Photos

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2004

Contact Greg Brooks, 770/266-2307
Contact Katie Woodall, 770/266-2572

MONROE, Ga. -- With the help of 224 enthusiastic motorcyclists, Walton Electric Membership Corporation's Power of Hope Ride raised almost $4,500 to benefit the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.

The ride, started last year, grew by 50 percent in attendance and money raised in 2004.

Hosted by employee volunteers on September 11, the ride was based at Walton EMC's Monroe headquarters and wound through 73 miles of the surrounding Georgia Piedmont on scenic rural back roads.  Motorcyclists also enjoyed a barbeque lunch, the Barking Charley band and many door prizes.

"The ride this past Saturday was great!" commented participant Karen Roberts.  "You folks do a wonderful job.  It was well organized and ran smoothly.  We sure made an impression on folks being stopped to let us go by!  Thanks for the great work you do."

Taz Casey, a seven-year old cancer survivor, served as honorary ride captain. His duties included issuing the command for riders to start their engines and accompanying Walton County Sheriff Al Yarbrough, also a cancer survivor, in the lead escort vehicle.

Cycle World of Athens partnered with Walton EMC in presenting and promoting the Power of Hope Ride.

"Thanks to all the riders who care and make a difference," said Walton EMC's Sherry Lowrance.  "When it comes to helping others, the motorcycle community is always there to do their part."

Established in 1936, Walton EMC is a customer-owned electric company with 110,000 accounts in ten Northeast Georgia counties.

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