BY SARAH STEPHENS
ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
Top photo is still shot from Children First’s video of riders leaving the Harley Davidson property in Montgomery.
It was a very long day Saturday but for a fantastic cause as multiple organizations joined forces for the Inaugural Ride Against Child Abuse.
The event drew almost 70 motorcycles for a 100-mile cruise through our area. All of the funds raised from the event will benefit Children First, a Montgomery non-profit that helps with legislation geared toward protecting children. To learn more about Children First, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/Alabamachildrenfirst
For a video of the riders leaving the Harley Davidson of Montgomery property, see https://www.facebook.com/Alabamachildrenfirst/videos/423989649176612
The day began early at the Montgomery Harley Davidson business, with a stop at the American Legion Post 133 of Millbrook for a little music and fun and fundraising. The day ended with an After Party at the clubhouse of the LEMC Punishers Three Rivers Chapter off Friendly Pine Road in Elmore.
There everyone was invited to hear Jeff and the Johnson’s perform on the club’s brand new outdoor stage. Entry for non-riders was $10. The night included a silent auction as well.
“All of this money will go to Children First, and we are very pleased to partner with them and the Alabama Law Tigers for this event,” Punishers LEMC Three Rivers President Johnny Stiles told the EAN. He said a lot of work went into the day, but it is for the best cause…the safety and welfare of children. He thanked Harley Davidson of Montgomery for their continued support of fundraisers and all they do to give back to the community.
Jeff and the Johnsons performed multiple sets throughout the night with the crowd enthusiastic. Lead singer Tony Mills told the crowd they were honored to be a part of the event.
Millbrook Police escorted the ride throughout the day. Chief P.K. Johnson thanked all involved for helping the cause to fight child abuse in Alabama.
“We are blessed to have so many organizations that go above and beyond for great causes, and today is no exception. I thank everyone and certainly the Punishers LEMC Three Rivers Chapter. Locally, this group steps up and shows out raising thousands of dollars every year for multiple causes. They are behind the annual Blue Santa Ride, which over the years has provided many thousands of dollars to our Operation Blue Santa. That event provides Christmas presents to children in our community.”
The ranks of the Punishers LEMC is filled with current and former law enforcement, first responders and military members. Punishers LEMC is an international organization with chapters across the world.
The final tally for proceeds from the day’s ride and after party is still being figured, but President Stiles said he hopes to see the event continue to grow and attract more riders and support.
For more information about Punisher LEMC Three Rivers Chapter , visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PunishersLEMCThreeRivers
