Miles for Smiles goes the distance for GoodSam

 
TELLICO VILLAGE, Tenn. (WVLT)-- The 2014 Miles for Smiles fundraiser will help GoodSam clients who cannot afford to get relief from dental emergencies, even when in severe pain.

Funds are being raised by encouraging donors to “hop on” as penny(ies)-per-mile sponsors.

“We remember what it’s like not being able to afford dental care,” said Charlie Barnard, as he remembered their financially-lean college years. “ Teresa and I thought Miles for Smiles was just a fun, great way to help meet a great need in our community,” Barnard added.

Once they leave Loudon County, the ‘Where on Earth are Charlie and Teresa?’ contest begins.

The motorcycle-riding couple said this particular motorcycle, nicknamed Sammie, has never been to two of the continental states—North Dakota and California. “So, that’s where we’re going,” Barnard said with a grin.

Each day of their 21-day trip, people can go to the 2014 Miles for Smiles Facebook page and guess where the Barnards’ motorcycle will ‘land’ that evening.

Then, the next morning, they will reveal where they stopped by posting a picture or video about their adventures. “We decided the ‘Where on Earth…’ contest would be a fun way to get people to hop on for the ride, so to speak,” said Karen Bowdle, GoodSam’s Executive Director.

She said prizes for the closest guess include certificates for Blue Bell Ice Cream, ChickFilA, local restaurants and several other surprises.

The Barnards said they would love everyone to be involved by praying for them during this 21-day adventure. “We had 2014 Miles for Smiles bracelets made to remind folks to pray for us; you can get one by stopping by GoodSam at 119 A Street, Lenoir City,” Barnard added.

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8/25/14