Toys for tots at Interlake...
Mud tires and modified trucks, jeeps and SUVs were the order
of the day at Interlake. This truck finally topped the hill after a few tries
and some careful driving.
More than 450 off-road enthusiasts from Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois and even one vehicle from North Carolina attended this first event of its kind at the property. The ride netted 500 toys and $455 for the benefit of those in need.
Emily Kress, director of the DNR Division of Outdoor Recreation, said that both groups of off-roaders that donated their time, the Lincoln Country Trail Riders and Boonie Riders, were well-prepared and organized. The trails were marked, the volunteers were plentiful and easily identified by their orange vests, and the registration system worked well.
“People were on motorbikes, ATVs, in Jeeps and four-wheel-drive vehicles that defy description,” Kress said. “Groups rode together, spotted one another and helped each other get up and down a hill, or over a bump.
“There were folks with gray hair, no hair, whiskers, ponytails and kids on their own bikes. Everyone I saw was using proper safety equipment.”
The property, which is a reclaimed coal mining site, was recently purchased by the DNR for a variety of recreational uses. Portions of the land are still undergoing rehabilitation and are not yet suitable for any activities. Interlake will remain closed to the public until late 2008 or early 2009. Watch for more news about Interlake as the site continues to be improved
