This Saturday, 5/29, you have the opportunity to attend and participate in an event worthy of your time and support: The Fallen Warriors Memorial 2010 Motorcycle Poker Run and Classic Car Show. The focal point is the El Dorado Hills Town Center (see the interactive map at the bottom of this article). Note, however, that there is a pre-registration party being hosted by Harley-Davidson of Sacramento on Friday, 5/28, from 5-8PM, 1000 Arden Way, Sacramento.
I attended this event and rode the poker run last year (read the article here) when they held it at a smaller venue in Folsom. Even in that location, it was a good time and a patriotic time. In addition to the quality show cars and bikes, there were several modern and vintage military vehicles on display, and parking/security was orchestrated by men and women in uniform. The vendors' booths were likewise heavily populated by patriotic organizations.
You can learn a lot about the event’s origin and purpose on their website, but talking to organizer John Cordova reveals the true sense of mission and commitment he and the other organizers feel in honoring our region’s soldiers who literally gave all. It is something they pursue passionately and believe in completely.
The proceeds raised go to area high schools to be used as scholarships. The schools have the discretion to award the scholarships, and usually decide the winner through an essay competition with a patriotic theme. The one thing the organization does ask of the schools is that they place a plaque on display with the names of their own alumni who died in the line of duty. Seems simple enough. But in this modern age, John is finding an indifferent attitude from some local school administrators with regard to honoring their fallen veteran alumni. The scholarship funds they provide to the schools help to influence this indifference because after all, money talks.
Last year, the event had an emphasis on custom cars, but there were some quality custom motorcycles to drool over (see the trick fender mural at right). This year, there seems to be more emphasis given to bikes, especially considering that the poker run (9:30 KSU) can be started from four locations to cater to riders from everywhere:
Sac Harley Davidson, 1000 Arden Way, Sacto
El Dorado Hills Town Center 4364 Town Center Blvd.
Roseville Yamaha, 2014 Taylor Road, Roseville
C&E V-Twin, 12075 Locksley Lane Auburn
Of particular importance, the FWM organization acknowledges three particular local motorcycle businesses for their support:
I will personally attend, ride the poker run and strongly recommend you do, too. Honoring fallen veterans is one of the most patriotic things you can do. This event gives you a show & shine, a poker run, music, food and motorcycle vendors, all in one. Be sure to say "Hey Jack."
Until next time, stay tuned and upright,
Jack
Comments
I did a write up on events this weekend and didn't know anything about this. Thanks for sharing this!
Hey Jeremy, glad to share. In the future, take a look at the Events calendars that I maintain on the right lower side of my "face page" for motorcycle-related events. I try to keep current on things 3 months in advance. I'll be sure to peruse your column as well.
Hoping for a great turn-out! This is a great cause.
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