Rick Patrick
rick@greenepublishing.com
On Saturday, Jan. 14, members of the American Legion Riders Chapter 224, from Cherry Lake, along with chapters from across North Central Florida, gathered for a fundraiser for a very special project. The Cherry Lake chapter hosted a cook-out dinner to raise money to restore a motorcycle that will be given to a deserving veteran from the area.
Linda Hamby, owner of Hamby's Veggies, Fruits and More, in Madison, donated her late husband's motorcycle to be restored and repaired as needed. The motorcycle will be given to a deserving veteran from the Region Three area of the American Legion Riders, which is an extension of the American Legion. Region Three encompasses the towns of Madison, Live Oak, Lake City, Old Town, Mayo and Steinhatchee. In addition to the motorcycle, the chosen veteran will receive training on riding the motorcycle if they do not have a motorcycle license, insurance for a year, accessories (helmet, etc.), and a gas card. Hamby's late husband, a U.S. Army veteran, passed away seven months ago and Hamby felt donating his motorcycle to a deserving veteran would be a good way to honor his memory. In honor of her generous donation, the Cherry Lake Chapter extended membership to her, as well as membership into the American Legion Auxiliary.
American Legion Riders chapters from Live Oak, Lake City and Old Town braved the cool temperatures and made the trip to the American Legion Post 224, in Cherry Lake to enjoy some great food and fellowship. There were also drawings for various prizes to raise even more money for the cause.
Anyone wishing to make a donation is encouraged to contact Butch Diehl at (850) 464-1012.