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Bikers raise money for kids and families in need

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  • Tara Bozick •
  • Originally published May 18, 2008 at 2:27 p.m., updated May 18, 2008 at 2:27 p.m.

PORT LAVACA - Four-year-old Landon Rios jumped around on the moon walk and looked around at the party.

“It’s cool!,” he shouted, raising his fist in the air. “Everybody sings.”

Rios wants to become a drummer like his father who, from time to time, takes him around the block on his motorcycle.

Motorcycles lined the street at the Lighthouse Beach as the Cruisers of Port Lavaca celebrated their third annual Cruise Fest to raise money for needy children and families.

A fun run, tattoo contest, and bike show and wash raised more than $17,000, president David Garcia said. Last year, the nonprofit raised more than $10,000. The money helps area schools with school supplies, youth sports and activities. The group also helps needy families with emergencies, and with meals and toys around the holidays.

“We’re getting bigger and bigger every year,” Garcia said. “Our main goal is to help the needy kids of Calhoun County and surrounding counties.”

More than 450 came to support the cause, advocated by the 80 members of the Cruisers. American flags dotted the beach as the Cruise Fest took on a military theme to show support for the troops. Last year, the Cruisers sent $800 worth of care packages to the troops in Iraq during the holidays, Garcia said.

“There’s always somebody in need, whether it be a biker or a needy person,” said Luis Luna, a mechanical engineer from Lake Jackson.

Luna hopes the event also clears misconceptions about bikers. He has ridden motorcycles since he was 16 years old and likes to show his 5-year-old daughter, Angela Luna, some fun by giving her rides.

Garcia watches the families and the hundreds of people wanting to help out the community.

“It’s all about the kids,” he said.

Tara Bozick is a reporter for the Advocate. Contact her at 361-580-6504 or tbozick@vicad.com, or comment on this story at www.VictoriaAdvocate.com.



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