BUCYRUS — Bucyrus area resident Tim Dye is continuing the tradition he started last year to honor his late friend and provide musical instruments to local students.

Dye organized the second annual Byrum Memorial Poker Run on Sept. 14 and raised $2,036. The event is a tribute to his long-time friend, Shannon Byrum, who died in a motorcycle crash in 2017.

“We had just over 80 cycles show up for the ride,” Dye said. “The event was held at Dillinger’s and featured two bands, the Jessica Hannan Band and Rob Skaggs.”

He said many local businesses donated items for 42 different raffles and a 50/50 cash raffle.

“The winner of the 50/50 raffle donated the money back when he found out that 100 percent of the money, we make goes towards the Bucyrus Middle School Band,” Dye said.

Dye said Byrum’s love for music began when he was in middle school and joined the band, so he wants to give back to the school and community who had supported his friend.

“Some kids can’t afford band instruments or after a short time, they want to change instruments. What better way to let these kids explore and find the love of music at an early age than by helping them to purchase instruments,” Dye said.

Dye presented the money raised to Bucyrus Middle School band director Greg Shifley during the Bucyrus High School football game Friday night. Last year, the event earned $1,000 which also was presented to the Bucyrus Middle School Band.

“Mr. Shifley told me that the trombones they have are over 30 years old and said each one costs around $3,300 to replace,” Dye said. “I am hoping a person or business owner will see how much the poker run donation was and either add to it or match it in honor of Shannon.”

Dye is busy planning next year’s event to continue this tradition and carry on the memory of his best friend.