Riding for cheer

Helping collect and deliver toys to needy children may help change the stigmatic image of the motorcycle rider, says the chairman of the Motorcycle Toys for Tots fundraising campaign.

The Salvation Army kicked off its annual campaign for the Toys for Tot Motorcycle Ride Wednesday. The ride held on Sept. 19 had 94 riders participate at last year’s event. To participate riders are required to donate a toy that will go to a needy child.

Tom Gowler, chair of the Motorcycle Toys for Tots, said the annual event has helped change the image of a stereotypical rough motorcyclists into a person who is seen as more approachable. Gowler has been a rider for several years, but this is the first time he took on the role as chair for this cause.

"I wanted to get involved because it is a chance for the motorcycling community to give back to the community," Gowler said. "We try to get involved in as many charitable events as possible. It’s good visibility for us because we’re not the kind of people you want to shy away from. It’s really heart-warming to see children receiving a toy. "

Salvation Army Maj. Mervyn Halvorsen, executive director for the Salvation Army Social Services Thunder Bay, said they want to have 100 people take part in the event and hope they can raise more toys this year compared to 2009’s event.

Each year more people seem to want to participate more in the event and help children who need Christmas cheer, he said.

"When you give those toys to the children and you see the smile on their face it’s great," Halvorsen said. "I’ve seen riders bring two or three toys. In some rides across the country riders have brought their trailers in filled with toys."

Residents can drop off their toys at Excalibur Motocycle Works, Gordon Trailer Sales, J and J Sports, North Country Cycle and Sports and Thunder Bay Harley-Davidson. The ride will be held this year on Sept. 18.