SANDUSKY, Ohio
Several hotel operators and other business owners are riding to the rescue of a motorcycle rally that draws thousands of bikers to the Lake Erie coast.
Organizers of Ohio Bike Week worried that some events during the 10-day festival would be canceled this year after the closing of a Harley-Davidson dealership that was the main sponsor.
The last-minute loss of the sponsor left organizers struggling to pay bills and secure enough money to pay for security.
That's where the businesses stepped in, pledging to cover the costs of security workers and programs for the event, which runs from June 5 to 14.
Bike Week drew around 130,000 people last year to the area, between Toledo and Cleveland, organizers say. The show includes live music, races and stunt demonstrations, many of which are free.
"This is a great event that has increased year after year," said James Sortino, whose family owns five hotels and who contributed to help keep Bike Week. "What it does for the economy and the community is more important than anything else."
Bike Week is a big draw for the area's many tourism businesses that cater to Cedar Point amusement park and the nearby Lake Erie islands.
Auto dealer Bryan Kasper reached out to seven business owners and was able to collect $25,000 so that sheriff's deputies could be hired to provide security at the county fairgrounds, where some of the events are held.
Lake Erie Shores and Islands East, the area's tourism office, agreed to pay an additional $20,000 to print rally guides, and the owners of a bar promised to provide a bridge loan.
"The group of folks who stepped up at the 11th hour has been a surprise to us," said Steve Ernst, the event's chief organizer.
Roeder Harley-Davidson had been the main sponsor of Bike Week. Many events were to originate at the dealership, which shut its doors last week after its bank started foreclosure proceedings.
Ernst said that even though the focus is on this year's rally, he expects it to continue. "There will be another one next year in some shape or form," he said.
For additional information, stay with NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com -- Where Accuracy Matters.
To submit a story idea or news tip, e-mail stories@nbc4i.com.
MORE: NBC 4 Local News | Local Crime News
NBC 4 SPORTS: Sports News, Video
NBC 4 POLITICS: Headlines, Interactives & Video
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement