FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MMA recognized by Toys for Local Children for their efforts
On Saturday, January 28, members of the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association (MMA) were on hand for an annual banquet held by Toys for Local Children (TLC) thanking their many benefactors and supporters. The MMA was presented with a plaque thanking them for their years of support and commitment to this wonderful cause. Also recognized were the regional police and fire organizations and local businesses who provide support for TLC.
Presented with the award was (right to left) MMA Chairman Dave Condon, Treasurer Dave Kristal, District I Manager John Pecora, Vice Chairman Doc D’Errico, District I Representative Dana Melberg, Sergeant-at-Arms Joe “Sarge” Komola, & Member Services Director Kevin Raiche
Presenting the award was TLC Director Cindy Hickey who recognized the 36-year presence of the annual Lacey Packer Memorial Ride for which TLC has been the sole beneficiary for the past 6 years. Mrs. Hickey thanked the MMA not only for their tireless dedication to their efforts but for “making it so easy”.
In accepting the award, Chairman Condon commented that it wouldn’t be possible to operate an effective event without the support of TLC and the countless volunteers who organize the ride and take the time out of what’s become a very competitive charity ride season. The MMA is proud to support TLC because they don’t limit their support to only a few gifts once per year – they are a year-round organization of bottomless hearts who pour their energy into supporting anyone from around the Commonwealth who has a need at any time of year for any cause.
The Lacey Packer Ride is entering its 37th running and represents the longest running annual charity ride in Massachusetts. Re-named the “Lacey Marie Packer Memorial Ride” after the 10-year-old girl lost her life on October 1st 1989. Lacey was a passenger on her father’s motorcycle as he attended this very run with his Merrimack Valley HOG Chapter. After a roadside stop on the way home, a driver with 5 DUI convictions was speeding in the breakdown lane and ended Lacey’s childhood innocence in a second. Gone was her smile, her love of the motorcycles she saw that day, and her friendship with the many motorcyclists she befriended.
Although many have forgotten the story behind Lacey and that fateful day, as with her family, the MMA will never forget. The 37th Annual Lacey Packer Run is October 6, 2012 and is open to all who wish to participate – each participant is requested to bring a toy to be donated to TLC. More details are available on the MMA website.
For More Information, see http://www.massmotorcycle.org/ or contact Chairman@MassMotorcycle.org
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