Worked as a road captain Sunday for the annual Marine Corps Toys for Tots motorcycle fundraising event that drew more than 800 motorcycles and riders and raised more than $10,000 for needy children in The Roanoke Valley.

After a cool, brisk ride through Floyd County and down Bent Mountain to meet up with other members of the Roanoke Valley Harley Owners Group (RVHOG) at Country Cookin’ on Melrose Avenue for breakfast, we headed for Lowes in Salem to assemble, gather toys, sip coffee and hot chocolate and help control traffic on a pleasant afternoon with temperatures in the 70s and lots of sunshine.

Motor officers from the Virginia State Police and local police jurisdictions helped with traffic control as RVHOG members and other riders from Buffalo Soldiers, ABATE and other clubs pitched in as the throng moved through Salem, Roanoke, Vinton, back into Roanoke and then along Route 419 in Roanoke County to the parking lot behind the General Electric plant.

Good ride, good weather and a good time for a great cause.

With the sun beginning to set Sunday afternoon, I pulled my Harley into our garage for rest and relaxation.

Thanks to the riders, Marines, police officers and participants.