Besties

Good news for the motorcyle group ABATE Oregon–and the kids at Portland’s Shriners Hospital. ABATE’S annual Toy Drive Run to Shriners Hospital will go on as planned AND with the City of Portland’s blessing.

Mayor Sam Adams previously told the group he would charge  $12,500.00 for PERMITS and police costs to do ABATE’s December first motorcycle ride, but that would have dug deep into the group’s kitty which is used to buy toys and equipment for kids and their families. In fact, the group raises about $30,000.00 each year for this event. Obviously, nearly 13K would have ripped away nearly half the group’s toy and equipment budget.

ABATE’S Mike Friend (pictured on left with Mayor Adams) says a short five minute meeting today with Adams yielded the deal in which the Mayor forgives the permit costs–you know, like he did with groups like, hmm, uh, wait, wait, don’t tell me– YES! –Occupy Portland.  He told ABATE that it wasn’t necessary to erect banners in his honor or anything, but would like them to speak well of him.
 
The group has been doing the toy run for 32 years. Friend says they NEVER considered halting it,  but wanted the blessing of the City in order to make the ride more orderly.