Cycle Connection Harley-Davidson's 22nd Annual Joplin
Ride for Life Record-breaking Success!

Saturday night on Main Street in Joplin opened with the Cruise Night, featuring Cycle Connection employees introducing the new 2008 Model H-D motorcycles “parade-style”--including a few 105th Anniversary models.  The evening continued with 1000+ motorcycles flaunting their rides, Hardee's serving up great food, live music performed by Big Smitty and appearances by Jeff Feudner and Jim Nejedlo, two Harley-Davidson Executives from Milwaukee. 

Sunday continued with a blessing of the bikes, guest vocalist Duke Mason, Riders of Honor Bill & Betty Anderson and a 37-mile law enforcement escorted parade to Buffalo Run Casino.  The Seattle Cossacks impressed the crowd with two performances, voices were raised during the Battle of the Bikes and of course the wiener bite and slow race!

 The 337 registered participants raised $119,047 (compared to 2006's total of $83,000!)  Bob & Dev Johnson led the pack in fundraising bringing in $31,683.00 to-date but has stepped back from any to recognition so as to make sure others have the opportunity to shine.  Rod and Jane Sanders, parents of deceased MDA Local Goodwill Ambassador Cody Sanders, were awarded the top fundraising award for a total of $14,000.  Second was Rick & Cinda Sweet raising $8,733.00 and who will also be attending the Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon in Las Vegas representing Cycle Connection Harley-Davidson/Buell. Third place went to the Brotherhood of Bikers for $2,605 and Fourth spot for fundraising to Ike & Linda Woodrow with $1,600. 

In 2006, Cycle Connection presented a total to MDA during the local Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon of $152,000 and thus far to-date they are at $172,000 with a goal of $200,000 by Labor Day!