News Releases

Walton EMC Ride Raises Thousands for Cancer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 30, 2006

Contact Katie Woodall, 770/266-2572

Over 300 motorcyclists rode for a cure at Walton EMC's Power of Hope Ride bringing in $7,000 for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.

MONROE, Ga. - Hundreds of motorcyclists rolled into Walton Electric Membership Corporation's Headquarters for the Power of Hope Ride raising $7,000 for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life.

The ride, started in 2003 by employee volunteers, wound through 73 miles of surrounding Georgia Piedmont and scenic rural back roads on Sat., Aug. 26.

Fifth-grade cancer survivor Ginny Channell of Watkinsville served as this year's honorary ride captain. She issued the riders' command to start their engines before accompanying City of Monroe Policeman Shawn Collins to lead the ride.

“It was a great ride this year,” said Steve Ray of Bethlehem, “and a lot more bikes.”

Boots Hendricks, Walton EMC's Relay for Life team captain, said the support from the motorcycle community was overwhelming.

“We also had tremendous support from the Walton County Sheriff's Department,” Hendricks added. “Numerous sheriff's deputies, city policeman and state troopers came out to ensure a safe ride for the motorcyclists.”

Scott McCown of Lawrenceville won the highest bid for a cycle paint job, donated by Encline Designs. Many riders took home door prizes, including Clifton Johnson of Lawrenceville who won the grand prize, a Green Egg cooker from EMC Security.

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

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