Eureka Lodge riding for Masonic Children's Home again Saturday

CHINA GROVE — Eureka Masonic Lodge 283's annual charity ride has been one of the largest fundraiser for the Masonic Children's Home in Oxford.

And leaders of the China Grove lodge are hoping more people will participate in Saturday's 11th charity ride from here to the children's home — to guarantee its success.

Participating costs $20 per rider, which includes a pig pickin' meal on the campus of the children's home and a ride T-shirt.

Riders will leave Eureka Lodge at 7:30 a.m. and arrive in Raleigh at 10 a.m. They expect to reach the children's home campus in Oxford at 12:15 pm.

Ten years ago, the ride started with a simple idea: 25 motorcycles and a gift of $2,400.

In 2007, the event drew almost 110 motorcycles and raised $26,299.32.

As of last year, the charity ride had raised $124,000 for the Masonic Children's Home.

"But this could not have been done without the help of our sponsors and supporters," Stephanie A. Huie, one of the organizers, said in a press release. "All of the money that is given by sponsors and supporters is given to the home. This includes, but is not limited to, the unknown donations that are given and the money that comes from any raffles or event fees the day of the ride."

Huie said the Eureka Lodge ride is known as one of the largest fundraisers for the children's home every year.

"We invite all riders, whether they be motorcyclist or car riders, to join us for a wonderful event supporting a great cause," Huie said.

The organizers also thanked several agencies for their help: China Grove Police Department, city of Oxford Police Department and the Granville and Wake counties sheriff's departments.

Anyone who wants to take part in the ride, volunteer their time on the day of the event or co-sponsor the event should call Doug Earnhardt at 704-957-0346, Jerry Edwards at 704-857-8162 or Huie at 704-433-2923. Or you can e-mail them at dbearn@ctc.net, jeredwar7@aol.com or shuie3@carolina.rr.com.

You can also call the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford at 919-693-5111 or visit the home's Web site at www.mhc-oxford.org.

"Or show up at the Creedmoor Road Kroger in Raleigh Saturday before 10:15 a.m.," Huie said. "Everyone is welcome to come out and join us for a day of fun and relaxation but, most importantly, to support the children at the home."