HELP ON WHEELS BIKERS DELIVER TOYS TO CHILDRENS HOSPITAL.

Byline: Ben Jauron Staff Writer

WOODLAND HILLS - Nearly 50 firetrucks combined Sunday with an estimated 1,000 motorcycles in a thunderous ride through Los Angeles bringing toys to hospitalized children.

It was the seventh annual Funrise Toy Ride to Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, which originated when Funrise Toys Chief Executive Officer Arnie Rubin and 25 friends delivered a pickup truck full of toys in 1996.

``It's a wonderful event,'' Rubin said. ``But the best part is seeing the faces of the kids when Santa Claus hands them a toy. It's for kids who don't have a lot to make them happy this time of year.''

He said the event nets enough toys to hand out to children admitted to the hospital year-round, and it has become one of the the biggest motorcycle parades in the city of Los Angeles.

Rubin along with Los Angeles City Councilman Dennis Zine led the motorcade down Ventura Boulevard and over Cahuenga Pass. It was the second year in the ride for Zine, a former Los Angeles Police Department motorcycle officer.

``It's a day to show compassion and care,'' Zine said. ``When you arrive at the hospital and see the look in the faces of the children with these life-threatening illnesses, it makes it all worthwhile. There were no unfortunate incidents, just a tremendous outpouring of emotion and support.''

Zine said an 18-wheel truck full of toys ensured that every child got more than one gift.

The 25-mile run began at 10:30 a.m. at Funrise's headquarters, 6115 Variel Ave. in Woodland Hills, and arrived at Childrens Hospital shortly after noon.

Among the organizations represented were the Los Angeles Police Department, various firefighting groups and individual firefighters, LAPD Explorer Scouts and legions of motorcycle club members.

``It's a heartwarming moment,'' Chris Kringle-costumed biker Mike Levinson of Santa Clarita said. ``It's an opportunity to bring some pleasure to kids who are experiencing difficult times.''

``It's so much fun to see the kids smile and wave,'' said his wife, Ruthann.

The Levinsons were there as a part of the community outreach program of the Southern California Harley Riders Association.

Police Sgt. Don Harris said the event had special meaning to him because a neighbor's child was once admitted to the hospital and didn't pull through.

``It's a very worthwhile cause,'' Harris said. ``It's very noble of the motorcyclists to give their energy and interest to help these very ill children.''

The Lineup, a classic-rock band made up of Simi Valley police officers, performed for the crowds gathered in Woodland Hills before the run. ``It's all for the kids,'' said band leader Joe May.

Zine said the event was a huge success. ``We'll be working on it next year to make it bigger and better,'' he said.

CAPTION(S):

2 photos

Photo:

(1 -- color) An estimated 1,000 motorcycles make their way down Ventura Boulevard in Woodland Hills en route to Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. In its seventh year, the Funrise ride provides enough toys to give to children year-round.

(2 -- color) This is the second year for Los Angeles City Councilman Dennis Zine, above, to take part in the 25-mile ride. ``There were no unfortunate incidents, just a tremendous outpouring of emotion and support,'' he said. At left, a rider arrives at the lineup before 1,000 motorcycles and 50 firetrucks escort a truck full of toys to the hospital.

David Sprague/Staff Photographer