Tourist council approves funding for motorcycle event.
Sebring, FL (June 24, 2009) - The Run to the Heartland is moving forward as organizers of the sixth annual motorcycle rally continue to seek donations for the Oct. 2-4 event in Sebring.
The Highlands County Tourist Development Council approved a $5,000 sponsorship, which is contingent on the approval by the Highlands County Commission, during the council's meeting next week.
If approved, the money will be used for advertising, according to Lora Todd, marketing director for Run to the Heartland.
Todd, who noted that the Sebring Community Redevelopment Agency contributed $5,000, said the community has come together in supporting the event. She added a lot of businesses "are giving what they can."
Todd said it costs $70,000 to put on the weekend event. More than $12,000 has been pledged so far this year, which she said is more than last year.
Todd said money is made during the event from beer and merchandise sales and vendor fees.
In planning this year's event, organizers have had to cut back on entertainment. Todd said there will be a lot of local entertainment.
"We are an all-volunteer organization," she said. "We do this for the community."
Those who would like to donate either money or their time can call Todd at 863-414-2851.
