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The Eagle Riders are hosting a barbecue party to raise money for diabetes research. The bikers get together monthly
The Frederickburg Eagle Riders are motorcyclists connected with the Fredericksburg Eagles aerie.
Ronnie Rose (left) is sergeant-at-arms of the Eagle Riders. Rita Rose is secretary, and Web manager Carols De La Toree is president. |
Biker gangs may not have the greatest reputation, but they aren't all Hell's Angels. The Fredericksburg Eagle Riders, who raise money for charity, are more like angels flying too close to the ground. Don't let the custom Hogs and loud pipes fool you.
Fredericksburg Eagle Riders are members of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 4123, and are the second such motorcycle enthusiast club in Virginia.
Nationally, the Eagle Riders program is the fastest-growing group within the Eagles organization. Not only do they show off a fun and outgoing side of the club, they also recruit new members and support the larger organization.
According to their mission statement, The Eagles "make human life more desirable by lessening its ills, and by promoting peace, prosperity, gladness and hope."
"It's about people helping people," Eagle Riders Secretary Rita Rose said. "If someone comes to us with problems in their life, we do everything in our power to help them."
On Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Eagle Riders will host a "Rockin' October" fundraiser for diabetes research. The event is open to the public. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the gate.
Diabetes research is a national priority for the Eagles, who have partnered with the University of Iowa to build a research center dedicated to finding a cure. The national organization is committed to raising $25 million through their local outposts.
Rose has a personal interest in the effort, as her mother died from the disease. "Each one of us is trying to do our part," she said.
There are 55 members of the Fredericksburg Eagle Riders, and numbers are increasing steadily. They try to have an organized ride once a month.
The fundraiser, however, will be a stationary affair, taking place in the parking lot of the Eagles' lodge on Cool Springs Road. The White Oak Band will play, and a ticket includes a barbecue dinner. Families and children are welcome, and alcohol consumption will not be permitted.
For more information, visit eagleriders4123.foe.com.
To reach Jonas Beals: 540/368-5036
Email: jbeals@freelancestar.com
