Chicago-Area bikers braved the ominous weather to show their support for the Fourth Annual Hogs for Dogs (and Kitties Too) Charity motorcycle ride for Heartland Animal Shelter. The early morning threat of showers scared off a few participants, but the bad weather never arrived and over 100 bikers and around 120 participants hit the road in support of the no-kill, non-profit animal shelter in Northbrook. Around $3,700 was raised at the event on Sunday, September 19th.

Local bikers have been known for their strong support of charities ranging from animals to kids to veterans, according to event organizer Debbie McHugh. Motorcycle clubs from throughout the area participated in the event that started at Heartland and ended after a 70-mile observation ride at Side-Outs Bar & Eatery in Island Lake.

            “We’ve received a lot of support from volunteers, sponsors, donors and participants each year we’ve done Hogs for Dogs,” said event organizer Debbie McHugh. “The Chicago Hog Chapter and Glenview also assisted with the ride and provided road captains. Along with donations at the event, Heartland received many donations of food and other items from the shelter’s wish list that are needed on a day to day basis to help take care of the animals.”

            Raffle tickets were given to those who donated wish list items to the shelter. Free food and a free concert by the Lake County Rock-N-Roll All-Stars was provided at Side-Outs to all registered participants. Event sponsors include – Rose Dante-Realtor for Baird and Warner, the Law Offices of Steven Shaykin, Breezy Stitchwerks, Chocolate Inspirations, Jim and Debbie McHugh, Lillian Bachan, Bob Parkinson, Side-Outs, Mo’ Feinblatt Motorcycle Art, North Star Group and many area restaurants and entertainment venues. Some of the raffle prizes included White Sox tickets, Ravinia Passes, tickets to Marriott Lincolnshire, a family pass to the museum of Science and Industry, and a gift bag from U.S. 99 that included an autographed Carrie Underwood CD. Many pet and Harley-inspired raffle prizes were also available.

            Information about adoption, volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and foster opportunities are available at www.heartlandanimalshelter.net and www.facebook.com/HeartlandAnimalShelter. Last year, Heartland found homes for over 1,000 cats and dogs. The shelter is located at 2975 Milwaukee Avenue in Northbrook.