Rain turned some people away from the Fourth Annual Southern Eagles Motorcycle Club Cruise-in Saturday at the Freshwater Coast Discovery Center parking lot Saturday, but the ones who came and stayed had a great time, said Kelvin Thomas, SEMC president.

“The rains dampened the crowd a little,” said Thomas. “There were threatening showers during registration time. But the sun finally came out and it was fun. The entertainment was really good.”

Six bikers signed up for the ride which left at ll:20 a.m., followed a route to Lexington and back, stopped in Ward at a convenience store, and returned at 2:30 p.m.

Trenton Chief of Police Deke Tanks showed a lucky streak.

Not only did he walk away with the top prize of $150 for Best Hand, but he was the winner of the 50/50 raffle and several nice door prizes. Winner of $50 for Worst Hand was Gary Lott. Many nice door prizes, donated by area businesses, were given out.

Businesses who donated prizes and made other contributions this year include Ben Riley, Padgett Construction Company, Larry Lain, Ridge Recycling, Good Signs, Augusta Street and Trails, Aiken Motorcycle Shop, The National Wild Turkey Federation, Mayor Ken Durham and Amick’s Farms.

Entertainment was provided by Country & Soul of Maggie Valley, N.C. Singers Ronnie Call and Greg Mays sang a variety of songs and the band had T-shirts and CDs for sale.

Lunches of hot drumsticks, hotdogs with chili, chips, cookies and drinks were included in the riders’ fees and were available to the public for sale.

Monies raised from the cruise-ins and other fundraisers sponsored by the Southern Eagles go to help nursing home patients, some hospital patients, schools and churches. Some individuals who do not participate in the events also make cash donations.

“We’re looking forward to the next event,” said SEMC vice president, Lillie Langford.
“That will be Halloween night at the Southern Eagles’ clubhouse at 717 Buncombe Street.”

Trick or Treat bags will be given out to the children and hotdogs will be served.

The event lasts from 6 to 8 p.m.