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PORTLAND, Ore. - The fifth annual "Unions for Kids" Motorcycle Poker Run continued its upward momentum by raising $30,000 this year, up $5,000 from 2006. Fund-raising proceeds will again be awarded to Doernbecher Children's Hospital.

"This year's 113 motorcyclists deserve to be commended. Their dedication overshadowed the rain. With about a third of the riders we had last year, this group raised the bar to a new level. We cannot thank them enough," said Lee Duncan, Unions for Kids co-chair and IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) Local 48 business representative.

For the third year in a row, the raffle included a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle, won by Rick Wardell. "The motorcycle is always an event highlight," said Duncan. "The raffle, which includes many prizes, adds excitement to the event and considerably increases participation."

The event started and finished at the IBEW Local 48 union hall in Northeast Portland. Each rider paid a $10 entry fee to draw a poker card at five different stops along the 90-mile motorcycle route. A draw card could also be purchased for $5 at the end of the route. Those who drew the best and worst hands each won a prize. "Even with a little rain, spirits were high" said Duncan. "Riders studied card decks carefully at each stop in hopes of picking the winner."

Twelve-year-old George Gilstrap, son of ILWU Local 8 member Rick Gilstrap, donated his $216.00 raffle prize to the hospital. "It's amazing to see the generosity from people when they get involved with an event like this," said Duncan.

"Doernbecher has a long history of providing the best medical care, facilities, counseling, and services for sick or injured children and families. As a part of our community, we're proud to aid Doernbecher in extending these critical services to local kids in need," said Duncan. "Most importantly though, none of this could have happened without the work of all the committee members."