The message in Lansford was loud and clear Sunday: “We support our police and first responders.”

More than 250 motorcycles took part in the second annual “Back the Blue” Motorcycle Ride.

Men and women from all over the region took part, meeting at Lappawinzo Fish & Game, Northampton, then leaving to drive to the Half Time Bar & Grill at the Zoo on West Snyder Avenue in Lansford.

They pulled in at 12:45 p.m., led by police and fire rescue vehicles.

The municipalities in between showed their support, with police and emergency responders leading the riders through their communities.

“This is our support for law enforcement and also first responders here,” said Kevin Zuercher, one of the new owners of the Half Time Bar & Grill at the Zoo. “We’re just trying to show our true support. It started last year with the riots going on, and we felt it was necessary to do.”

Pamela Worman, manager at the Half Time Bar & Grill, echoed his words.

“They need our support right now. I know last year when COVID hit, there was so much going on; it was crazy. We need to let them know that we support them. They’re here to protect and serve, and we appreciate that.”

According to Worman, this year’s program has grown a bit from last year.

“There are two food trucks, plus Schaeffer’s Harley-Davidson is here with two motorcycles on display and T-shirts; we also have a DJ (DJ Hammer), and Social Call, a band from the Lehigh Valley is playing from 1:30 to 4:30.”

Last year’s ride resulted in a donation of around $5,000 to the Carbon-Schuylkill Lodge #13 Fraternal Order of Police, which will be the recipients of this year’s fundraiser as well.

“In our heart, we just want to support our law enforcement and not push them aside like they’re the bad people,” Zuercher added. “They’re here to help us.”

Kevin and Deanna Zuercher took over ownership of the Sports Zoo in November 2019.

“Zoostock,” a popular fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, was revived by the Zuerchers last year. Zoostock 2021 is scheduled for Labor Day, Sept. 6, from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., featuring live music, food and family fun.