Tammie Caley and her colleagues continue to make plans for the upcoming Sunflower Diversified Services Ride for Independence Poker Run that is set for Saturday, Aug. 26.
While they have collected a number of items for prizes and drawings, more are needed, said Caley, Sunflower’s chief financial officer.
Sunflower, a non-profit agency, serves people with developmental disabilities and delays in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties.
“We certainly appreciate everything we have gathered so far,” Caley said. “But the more community support we have, the better the participation in this first-ever event.
“Prospective vendors also are encouraged to contact us,” she added. “We want Poker Run riders, drivers and passengers to have an entertaining day as they spread Sunflower’s message of independent living.”
Proceeds are earmarked for adult services, which include residential and employment support. Advanced registration is encouraged but not required. Those who sign up by Aug. 10 will receive a free t-shirt.
Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at Sunshine Garage, 1006 Broadway in Larned. Kickstands on motorcycles will go up at 10 a.m. but any street-legal vehicle is welcome.
The fee for riders and drivers is $25 in advance and $30 the day of the event. The passengers’ fee is $20; $10 will be charged for an extra poker hand.
The stops along the route are Tracy’s Pub & Grill in La Crosse; Tap Room in Hoisington; and the Odin Store in Odin. Participants will then meet up at Jack Kilby Square in Great Bend.
At each location, participants will “win” a card for a poker hand. Events include shooting a basketball, ring toss, beanbag toss, putting a golf ball and throwing darts.
“We want to mix it up a little so everyone has a good time,” Caley said, noting any registrant who wants a card will get a card.
Participants are welcome to make other stops along the route if they want to enjoy tourist attractions. However, they must arrive in Great Bend by 3:30 p.m.
The best poker hand will win $250; second best, $100; and the worst hand will get $50. Other drawings and prize opportunities are on the agenda.
In addition, Jaron Bell will perform; Bell is from Salina and will soon appear on “The Voice.”
Ladeska “Decky” Makings, Sunflower interim director, emphasized that Caley came up with the Poker Run idea and has laid all the groundwork.
“Tammie deserves a big pat on the back,” Makings said. “She has done a great job in a short amount of time. And her enthusiasm has been contagious for her colleagues and the community.”
For more information or to register, call 620-792-1321.
