Uncorked poker run to benefit animal shelter

COSHOCTON, OHIO - Uncorked, a new wine and coffee bar located in Roscoe Village, will host its first poker run at noon Saturday, Aug. 23, with proceeds benefiting the Coshocton Animal Shelter.

Lorrie McGraw-Hardesty, owner of Uncorked and coordinator of the event, has organized several poker runs in the past with bike sign-ins exceeding 150 to 200 riders.

"This run is a little different than past runs, as I am trying to pull families in for the day when the riders are out on the run. I think the family events during the day will be fun for everyone," she said.

Family activities will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. and will include a pet parade with prizes open to anyone with a pet; face painting and cornhole; magic by Jeff Leonard on the stage and throughout the day; and a DJ. The 40&8 charter of the American Legion will prepare and grill food on the street from noon to 8 p.m.

The Coshocton Animal Shelter also will close its doors for the day in order to take kittens and puppies to the event for adoption. Those arriving at the event with the intent of adopting a pet should have a carrier. The shelter plans to use the donations to replenish the spay and neuter fund and to cover costs for medical care.

"With the warm weather more animals are out on the run and there are a lot of injured animals and we'll get called to pick them up," said Chris Sturtz, Coshocton County humane officer. "Quite often, they'll get hit by cars ... and we like to get them to a veterinarian. A lot of our money is spent trying to care for these animals until someone comes and takes responsibility for them."

The average veterinarian bill has been $150, Sturtz said.

"We'll have good food, kids activities, and who doesn't love animals? I think it will be a great mix and a great time for everyone," McGraw-Hardesty said.

Whitewoman Street will be closed from Hill Street to the Johnson-Humrickhouse Museum for motorcycle parking, day activities and live entertainment from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Cost to take part in the run is $10 per rider. The last bike out will be at noon with all bikes returning by 6 p.m. Motorcycles will be parked for viewing after 5 p.m. on Whitewoman Street. Local band Sneek Peek will perform on the main stage in Roscoe Village from 7 to 10 p.m.

Anyone who would like to volunteer for the event or for information, call 622-3000.

Coshocton Tribune

News Added: 18 August, 2008

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