OGDENSBURG -- The first annual Society of the United Helpers Motorcycle Poker Run united hundreds of area motorcycle enthusiasts and residents of local health care and skilled nursing campuses.

More than 70 motorcycles participated in the 120-mile journey that led riders from Ogdensburg to Massena to Canton to Gouverneur, and back again.

"We were very pleased with the number of riders that came out to support our residents," said William R. LaFlair, Poker Run event chair. "It was a beautiful day and we could not have asked for more. We are already looking forward to next year.”

Activities for the day included 50/50 raffles, prizes from many local area businesses, dinner at the Knights of Columbus in Ogdensburg, and live musical entertainment by country artist and former frontman of CAIN, Larry Holly, country singer Lacey Stoddard, and rock/pop artist Shawn Stoddard

“This was truly a team effort,” said Lori A. Smithers, Development Director. “We thank our riders, our sponsors, entertainers, the campuses we visited and all of people who helped to bring the ride to reality.”

Sponsors included Frary Medical Transport - Frary Funeral Home, the United Helpers Maintenance Department, Alltech Integrations Corp., Walmart, Bonnie Castle Resort, Uncle Sam’s Boat Tours, Lowe’s, J.B. Sealcoat, Don Peck Auctions, Eric Farrand Tattoos, Hebel Welding & Machine, Bishop General Contracting, Mullins Restaurant, King Coat Sealing, Gardener’s, VIP Films, Pepsi, Fourth Coast Entertainment Magazine, and Stewarts. 

To learn more about the “Ride for the Residents” or how to support the United Helpers organization, call 393-3074 or visit www.unitedhelpers.org.