Seven bands to perform at ABATE toy run

The DuKane Chapter of ABATE of Illinois will make its 30th annual Toy and Food Run Sunday, Oct. 9, its largest event ever, starting with the entertainment lineup at the post-run party in Batavia.

The Toy and Food Run, from Elburn to Batavia, is an annual motorcycle run organized by the DuKane Chapter of the motorcycle rights and safety organization. Along the way, riders will collect toy and food donations to benefit 18 charity organizations before arriving at the post-run party.

"We have a full day of music planned. Seven bands … will perform on three stages, and it's not your run of the mill, everyday entertainment either - three of our seven bands are headliners," said Wally Elliott, the chapter's events coordinator.

Skinny Molly, an international recording and performing act from Nashville, was founded in 2004 by guitarist/vocalist Mike Estes, formerly of Lynyrd Skynyrd and Blackfoot, and Nashville studio drummer Kurt Pietro.

The band has toured extensively in the U.S. and abroad and is currently touring Europe. Skinny Molly will perform as one of the headlining acts at the 30th annual Toy and Food Run.

Second Shot, a southern rock band from Jacksonville, Florida, features former members of groups such as Molly Hatchet, the Allen Collins Band, Mill Creek, and David Allen Coe.

The band's first CD, "Loaded," was released in December and one track features Pat Travers on slide guitar.

Country music act The Fairview Union hails from Chattanooga, Tennessee. The five-piece band is fronted by husband-and-wife duo Chad and Kelli Wilson, rising stars on the country scene known for their high energy performances. The Fairview Union has released three original albums.

Beyond the headliners, the event features Shooter, an award-winning southern rock band from DeKalb; Joker's Rival, a classic rock cover band from Chicago; and Mr. Capone's Bootlegger Band, fronted by radio personality Pat Capone of 103.9-FM The FOX. The Nick Bell Band returns to perform at the motorcycle parade starting point, Knuckleheads Tavern, 108 E. North St., Elburn.

"Whether you ride a motorcycle or not, if you like music and want to hear a whole lot of it for a very small cost, come to our 30th annual Toy and Food Run," Elliott said.

Those who come to the concert are asked to donate $10 per person and a new, unwrapped toy or nonperishable food item.

The motorcycle parade begins at 12:30 p.m. from Knuckleheads Tavern. The party continues until 6 p.m. at the Batavia VFW, 645 S. River St., Batavia.

For information, visit facebook.com/groups/DuKaneABATE. For information about DuKane ABATE, visit www.abate-il.org/dukane.