The Billy Rice Band Will Play for MOTS Benefit in Bradenton, FL

Some people might think that ‘MOTS’ is the best kept secret in town. But with the Billy Rice Band playing at the Elks Club at 2511 75th St W. in Bradenton on September 28th, maybe that will change!

So the question for today is, do you know what ‘MOTS’ stands for? It stands for Manasota Operation Troop Support, a 501c3 non-profit that has been serving Manatee and Sarasota County Military troops and their families since 2007.

One of the most popular activities at MOTS is the Packing Party for Troops. Once a month, on a Saturday morning, friends and neighbors come together at the MOTS warehouse to put together care packages for deployed military troops with family ties to our two-county area. With a cardboard box cradled in the crook of one arm, their free hand is used to personally pick and choose what will go into their box headed to a troop serving far from home.

The warehouse is laid out with beef jerky, sweet and sour treats, socks, hand-knitted watch caps, toothbrushes, and more. It resembles a beehive with volunteers reaching for items, shuffling behind each other, perusing the tables, and searching for those perfect provisions to pack. And many friendships are formed in that warehouse as talk turns to deployed loved ones and veterans.

The next Packing Party for the Troops is August 24th at 9am and everyone and all ages are welcome. It only takes an hour and is held at 4301 32nd St West, Suite C20 in Bradenton. No reservations required, just happy hands and giving hearts.

MOTS also provides many other services for local military families. Check us out on our FB page.

The Billy Rice Band has a loyal following and ticket sales are already brisk so, don’t wait to get your ticket! A huge Silent Auction will add to the festivities. Tickets for The Billy Rice Band Dinner Dance Fundraiser are available for $40 each by calling Director, Linda Craig at 941-782-0748.

Photos from Deposit Photo and Samantha Renne.

 {googleads right}