Cruzin for Critters

4^th annual poker run aims to please riders and pets alike

Fun runs come in all flavors and often benefit organizations near and dear to the promoters’ heart. Enter John-Mark Mahnkey.

Mahnkey works with the Whitman County Humane Society, a small, no kill animal shelter located in Pullman, Washington, that serves all of Whitman County. They care for hundreds of animals each year, including dogs and cats, as well as the occasional rabbit, guinea pig, bird, or reptile.

Starting in 2014, Mahnkey organized a fundraiser to benefit WCHS - a motorcycle Poker Run called “Cruzin’ for Critters!” The past three years have been a great success, generating both awareness and much-needed funds for the shelter.

Unlike most poker runs that use a portion of the entry fee as a prize (typically called a “50/50” prize), WHCS relies on donations of items and services from local merchants, local Chambers of Commerce, and private citizens to offer as prizes. In the past, they have awarded hotel stays, food, tools, helmets, bike supplies and accessories, as well as rider training courses and framed posters of the event.

WCHS has also offered informational brochures, coupons, and product samples in a “goodie-bag” to be handed out to the first 50 registered participants. This year, they hope to have t-shirts available for purchase as well, featuring the “Star Wars” inspired event poster.

WCHS is always looking for organizations that will help them publicize, or directly sponsor their event, since as a non-profit organization a budget for this event is non-existent. Everything, from the advertising, prizes, and including the time of the volunteers at the checkpoints and elsewhere is donated! All donations to WCHS are tax deductible, and the animals they care for every year would greatly appreciate any support that you can give.

This year, “Cruzin’ for Critters” is scheduled for Sunday, July 16th, 2017. It is family-friendly, beginning and ending at Zeppoz Bowling Alley and Casino in Pullman, WA.

The ride will go through several local communities, traverse epic riding and scenic roads, and profile some of the most scenic parts of the county. This year, the route includes Wawawai Canyon, a ride along the Snake River, and the fabled riding destination “Spiral Highway” that rises out of the Lewiston/Clarkston valley.

For more information about “Cruzin’ for Critters” visit the website at http://www.whitmanPets.org/cruzin . You can also contact John-Mark directly at 208-301-0487, or via email at johnnym@pullman.com. For more info on WCHS, please email webmaster@whitmanpets.org.

SR!/July 2017