Combine lots of chrome, leather, bikers on Harleys and near-perfect weather in Gowanda and the result is a very successful "Harley Happening at the Hollywood." The weekend-long event to benefit the restoration of the Hollywood Theater took place on June 6, 7 and 8 and netted a profit of $27,218.44.

     "Without a doubt, the Harley Happening has grown to become one of the largest and most successful outdoor family festivals anywhere in Western New York and really puts Gowanda on the map each year," according to Hollywood Theater Executive Director Bryan Bradley.

     Overall, event expenses were up substantially from previous years. Total expenses for the three-day event were $47,458.06. Event insurance alone was 200 percent higher than the previous year at $14,320. Many people have no idea just how expensive it is to put on an event of this nature each year," according to Bradley.

     "More than 100 people worked very hard to make the Harley Happening a huge success," says event Co-Chair Randy Rosen of Gowanda Harley-Davidson. "Bikers, great entertainment, food, drink, vendors and a great cause in the Hollywood Theater and you have a rockin' good time in Gowanda," exclaims Rosen.

     This year's event coincided with the 100th anniversary of Harley-Davidson and the 56th anniversary of Gowanda Harley-Davidson.

     Next year's event is already being planned and scheduled for June 4, 5 and 6. For more information on Gowanda's Hollywood Theater, log onto www.hollywoodtheater.org.