1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run Participants Dedicate Day To Make-A-Wish Kids

With daytime heat in the low 80s but with crushing humidity, the best way to stay comfortable today in Clayton, N.Y., was to be on the water. And that’s exactly what several participants in this weekend’s Clayton-based 1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run did—but with an even higher purpose than simply cooling off. Those gracious pokerr runners provided boat rides for approximately 60 children in the Make-A-Wish of Central New York program, which is the event’s primary benefitting charity.

Granting wishes to children battling serious health challenges was the order of the day at the third annual 1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run. Photo courtesy/copyright Tim Sharkey/Sharkey Images.

In addition to 1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run organizing committee member Ken Lalonde, poker-run participants Kelly O’Hara, Bill Eastman, Jim Rose, Dan Bouten and Dave Scotto spent the better part of this sweltering day in Upstate New York giving rides to children dealing with serious chronic illnesses. The Friday boat rides have become integral to the event, which is in its third year.

“This part of our event most definitely gives kids an experience they may never otherwise have the chance to get,” said Nolan Ferris, another member of the 1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run organizing committee. “But it also gives the drivers an experience they will never forget.”

For more images from today’s boats rides for Make-A-Wish children check out the slideshow above.

During tomorrow night’s celebratory banquet following the poker run, the event organizers—thanks to their generous sponsors—will continue granting wishes for the Make-A-Wish program. That’s a cherished aspect of the 1,000 Islands Charity Poker Run’s primary purpose and tradition. And in keeping with that tradition, Ferris wouldn’t tip his hand about what’s in store for tomorrow night.

“Oh, we will be granting wishes,” he said. “Plural.”

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