On Saturday July 24th approximately forty motorcyclist came out to support a charity for children. The event was organized by the American Legion Riders and The Sons of the American Legion Riders. The Rider’s Director Brian Shedd was responsible for choosing the charity as well as organizing the event. The American Legion Post 82 hosted the charity event and approximately thirty bikers showed up to attend. The charity ‘COTA” or Children Organ Transplant Association would receive half of the proceeds collected at the ride and the other would go back to the American Legion Riders for future charitable events.

Bikers from Gilmer County arrive at the American Legion

The event was advertised on Face Book and the bikers began arriving at 9 am.   The Legion opened it’s door early and planned to leave for the ride at 11 am.   Prior to the departure Brain Shedd, organizer, gathered the bikers into a group to go over the route and then the American Legion pastor said a prayer before the bikers left for the ride. The event was open to any biker whether they were a member or not as most of their events are opened to the public regardless if they have served in the military. The weather was clear and sunny throughout most of the day and bikers enjoyed a little over a hundred mile ride. The ride was led through the Cherokee National Forest and the ‘Trail of Tears’ as well as a beautiful ride along the Ocoee River where hundreds of rafters were riding the rapids. Heading back to the Legion Hall they got to experience another one of the most scenic routes which traveled through Blue Ridge and finally entering Ellijay. After several hours the group made their way back where they could have lunch and drinks at the Legion’s hall. There was also a raffle of a wheelbarrow which held hundreds of dollars in wine and spirits.   Tickets were sold to the patrons attending the charity and along with the wheelbarrow several other door prizes were up for grabs as well as an auction.   After the event was over Rider Director Brain Shedd announced that over $2000 was raised at the event and was considered very successful and everyone had a good time!

Bikers gather to participate in prayer prior to the ride

The Ellijay American Legion is open to the public and host many events and activities during the year.   The post is also responsible for the all the crosses that are mounted on the sides of the road during the Memorial day holiday.   They sponsor many charities throughout the year.   In July they hold a Duck Race as well as fireworks and many other family oriented events. They also are open to serve food with specials every Friday night, hold trivia night and Karaoke too!   They are known as “The Legion on the River” and are located at 297 Legion Road, Ellijay, GA 30143.

This American Legion rider displays his patch proudly depicting his service and branch