Friday, August 7, 2009

Made it to $500 in donations!

I am happy to be heading to Flagstaff with my Dad, the former marine, my brother and brother-in-law. We are picking up a fourth rider in Flag, so we are in for a fun weekend. Low temps are predicted in 40s with Highs in 70s. Nice to have 35+ degrees off your daily temps when you are riding for 6-7 hours.

Cheers and Good Riding,
-Eric

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

We are getting close!

I am now over $400 in donations and we are getting close to the end of the week. The support has been great and I am planning on another proud finish with friends and family riding and supporting me. Cheers, -Eric

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Less than one week to go ...

Thanks goes to the all the people behind me that are supporting my quest. I have jumped to nearly $400 raised as of Sunday. Keep the positive energy going, I will need it come Saturday morning as I set off into the high desert for 65 miles of excitement with 125 of my closest friends.

Flashback: One year in this ride we had nature turn on us. Rain, Mud, Lightening, Flooded trails and cold wind. That year of the 100 people that started only 25 were able to make it to the finish line. I remember getting close to the finish line, the mud had been rinsed off me by driving rain, I was riding uphill and upstream and into the wind. I realized I would make it even though all the elements had turned sour. That was the year I truly fell in love with this event and the people that band together to organize it and participate in it. That year, I was one of the lucky 25 who made it to the finish, but the volunteers and other riders were all winners because we delivered for a greater good. Thanks again for the support and I look forward to writing my post ride post about all the great work that will come about due to your generous giving.

Monday, July 27, 2009

Honor Roll is Rolling!

Thanks to all my early supporters, we are over $130 and the momentum is gaining. Cheers!

Monday, July 20, 2009

Donation Recognition

This is a link to a Donation Coupon for all of my supporters. Please use this link for a printable donation coupon so you have a record for tax time.

The Marine League Charities, (MLC) Flagstaff, Arizona is an IRS 501.c. (3) tax exempt organization, EID 86-0944607. Your donations are tax deductible, the record number is 22-3050009.

Thanks again for your support. The Fat Tire Bike Ride is going to be better than ever. Riding with good friends and family makes it memorable.

Add your soldier to the HONOR ROLL.

I am dedicating my ride to my father this year. USMC Charles Brandt

Post your dedications using the comments.

2009 Flagstaff To Grand Canyon Fat Tire Ride

Hello Friends,

Even the poor economy has hurt most Americans, the needs in our community at large have continued to increase. I wanted to let you know that it is that time of year again for my annual Northern Arizona Toys for Tots Charity Mountain Bike Ride. I will be riding off-road for 65 miles from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon on Saturday, August 8th, on my single speed mountain bike to raise charitable contributions that bring hope to children and wounded soldiers in Arizona.
Last year, the event raised $46,000 for Marine League Charities (benefiting children of Northern Arizona and members of the U.S. Armed Forces). This year we’d like to break yet another record. All donations are tax deductible and go straight to the charities, as event operating expenses are covered by corporate sponsors.

The Marine League Charities, (MLC) Flagstaff, Arizona is an IRS 501.c. (3) tax exempt organization, EID 86-0944607. In accordance with the mission statement, the Marine League Charities (MLC) supports and funds the following three local charities: Flagstaff Community Toys for Tots Organization, Flagstaff Arts and Sports Together (FAAST), and the Wounded Marine Program. The purpose of the MLC is to support charities including those organized to assist children of Northern Arizona and those charities benefiting members of the U. S. Armed Forces.

The primary item delivered by these organizations to those in need is HOPE. These charities provide services and activities for the children of Ash Fork, Flagstaff, Tusayan, Valle, Williams, and communities of the Havasupi, Hopi, and Navajo Indian Reservations. Activities include a sports festival, Shoot-Out-in-the-Pines and multiple Christmas parties during the holiday season where entertainment, refreshments and toys are provided. In the past year, the Toys for Tots organization distributed 17,066 toys to 5,660 needy children, purchasing and distributing 1,000 basketballs, footballs, and soccer balls, 100 food baskets, and 120 sporting event tickets and children events. The organizations reach out to let those in need to let them know the community-at-large cares.

All the fun and pain happens on August 8th, 2009 and I hope you can help with my donation drive. Cash or checks in any amount are accepted. Checks should be made Payable to: Marine League Charities. Donations can be made right up until Thursday August 6th.

Open up your hearts and give a donation in any amount to help benefit the Marine League Charities. There is no minimum or maximum donation, my goal is to get even more supporters than last year where contributions exceeded $800.

More information on the event can be found at http://www.flag2gc.com/ . Thanks for helping me bring hope to kids and soldiers across the state.