CVMA 23-14’s Annual Harvest Fest 2018
It was a cool November morning, but I still had hope that we would have a good turnout. The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association Chapter 23-14, also know as CVMA 23-14, hosted their 2nd Annual Harvest Fest. So, we were up early getting to the local small-town bike shop, the Scooter Shed, in time to set up and be ready for participants. No matter the outcome, it was going to be a good day; raising money to help support the veterans of East Texas.
Motorcycle Scavenger Hunt
Motorcycle scavenger hunts are so much fun! Being held on Veterans Day weekend, the Harvest Fest 2018 Motorcycle Scavenger Hunt consisted of stops and point-collecting based on veteran-related places and items. Registration would begin at 11:00 a.m. and KSU at noon. The participants would come in, register, receive the locations, rules, and point system, then set and plan their route. Each participant could choose how they ran the route. We provided location addresses, drive-time from starting location and a list of items that would garnish them bonus points.
With a "good luck" and a "be safe", they were off! The riders have three hours to complete the scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt will end at the Republic Icehouse. Actually, just 30 minutes from where it began, but the trip will be priceless. They will need to find the judges' table, where they can turn in their pictures, and tally up their points.
Four gentlemen took home cash prizes! More than that, they took home an experience. Each participant of the hunt has vowed to participate in the next Motorcycle Scavenger Hunt held by CVMA 23-14. Praising the chapter for organizing such an exciting and challenging scavenger hunt.
Paying out 1st, 2nd, and a tie for 3rd places, it was CVMA 23-14's honor to present the 1st Place winner with $250, 2nd Place winner $150, and the two gentlemen tying for 3rd Place $50 a piece.
After Party
After a day of riding, it is now time for some good food, good drinks, and good music! Republic Icehouse hosted CVMA 23-14's after-party this year. The party consisted of those who road the scavenger hunt and those who just wanted to come out, have a drink, and show their support.
The partygoers were provided great music by the bands Red House Revival, and the East Texas Blues Band of the year recipients, Hubcap & Loose Nuts. Both bands are exceptional at their craft and showing their support for veterans. For the last two years, both bands have volunteered their time and talents to CVMA 23-14's Harvest Fest. From their own music to covering some of the classics, they never disappoint.
While enjoying the festivities, people also strolled through the silent auction room where they could bid on items ranging from custom-made cedar military themed crosses, several bottles of wine, to a Harley Davidson Bar-B-Q set, and patriotic display boxes. Oh, and a set of gloves that I did not get a picture of, but we had two attendees in a frenzy, constantly going back to check their bid. It went back and forth for quite some time.
People could also take their chances with the 50/50 Raffle and enjoy all the food and drinks they wanted during the event. The Republic Icehouse graciously donated 10% of all sales during the hours of the event to CVMA 23-14.
CVMA 23-14's Mission... Vets Helping Vets
All the hard work and planning paid off. While we did learn a few lessons on the planning aspect, and you can read more about that here, goals were met, people attended, funds were raised, and everyone had a good time. As a result, CVMA 23-14 will be able to offer more veterans a hand-up this year. To those veterans who have fallen on hard times and just need a little assistant, the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association Chapter 23-14 will be there.
