A poker run hosted by the Iron Order Motorcycle Club (IOMC) raised money for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley (PCFLV) July 22. Riders primarily from the Berks County-based Blacksheep chapter enjoyed sunshine and moderate temperatures for a scenic drive that began at the East Penn Diner on Chestnut Street in Emmaus. After stopping off at Hannah’s Hanover Inn, Little Oley Tavern and Bally Hotel, the bikers returned to the diner.

Ody Draklellis, who co-owns the East Penn Diner along with his brother George, hosted a classic car show for PCFLV in 2016 and was eager to help out again with the poker run.

“I love to do whatever it takes to help people out,” said Draklellis as he had sandwiches prepared for the event volunteers.

Each biker goes by a road name to preserve privacy. “Duie,” the ‘state rep’ for the IOMC Blacksheep chapter said, “Each chapter is required to have a charity in their charter,” for membership in this national motorcycle club. The Blacksheep have supported the PCFLV, “for the last six or seven years,” according to “Duie.”

Dean Ritter from Orefield, an independent “lone wolf” biker, only rides for charity events.

“It’s very, very rewarding,” said Ritter, a cancer survivor, “The people are the nicest people in the world.”

PCFLV is a local non-profit, dedicated to providing services and programs to local pediatric cancer patients and their families, along with bereaved families.

Information on PCFLV: pcflv.org

Information on motorcycle charity runs: cyclefish.com