HOULTON, Maine — On Saturday, July 14, The Salvation Army of Houlton will host its inaugural “The County’s Ride For The Red Shield” motorcycle event.
Designed as a fundraiser for the Salvation Army, organizers hope to raise $10,000 from the gathering.
“Rides like this that we have done in New Hampshire and New Jersey have been very successful and we believe it will be here in Aroostook County,” said Envoy/Pastor Frank Nataluk. “We believe this event has the opportunity to grow over the years where we have seen many people who enjoy riding.”
Registration is from 8-9 a.m. at The Salvation Army office located on 12 Court St. A bike blessing will be held at 9 a.m. followed by the start of the three-hour motorcycle ride.
Each biker will have directions with two places to stop to collect letters for a “Scrabble Scramble.” The ending point is back at The Salvation Army headquarters where they began the ride. There will be a BBQ lunch, the judging of the bikes and awards and door prizes. Any monetary donation is appreciated and an event T-shirt will be given to the first 50 registrants.
The Scrabble-Scramble winner will receive a grand prize of a two-night weekday stay with breakfast included at the North Conway Grand Hotel. There also will be door prizes from local businesses.
Awards will be given for Judges Choice Best Bike, People’s Choice Best Bike and Best Represented Bike Group.
“With families needing more and more assistance, we hope to raise $10,000,” Nataluk said. “There are still opportunities for businesses to sponsor the event. All they need to do is call the office or go to our web page for information. The neediest of those in the Houlton area will benefit, so this is a win-win.”
Registration forms are available at www.nne.salvationarmy.org/Houlton. For more information, call 532-2322 or 231-1982 to speak with Nataluk. He also can be reached by email at fnataluk@use.salvationarmy.org.
