Vets' Charity Orgs. Host Cornhole Tournament, Give Scholarships

On Saturday, July 17, two local 501 c3 Veteran's charity organizations combined forces to provide assistance to local veterans during these times of uncertainty.

The Marauders MC and SPC Chad A. Edmundson Memorial Foundation hosted a cornhole tournament to raise funding for area Veterans. Despite the rain, many participants showed up to support the cause. Throughout the showers, games were played, and lasting bonds were formed.

Both organizations are completely run unpaid volunteers.

The Marauders MC (Motorcycle Club) also had the pleasure of presenting two local high school graduates with the William "Billy" Garber Memorial Scholarship. Billy Garber, a former graduate of Central High School, joined the Air Force after graduating from Central. Tragically, Garber lost his life four years into enlistment. The Fallen Airmen's father, Chuck Garber Jr. presents the scholarships in his son's honor yearly.

The scholarship provides a boost to help get the basic needs of new service members during their transition from high school into the military. Every year, graduating area seniors are encouraged to apply with a short essay and upcoming military service itinerary.

This year's scholarship winners were chosen by essay submission and potential needs. Ashton Campbell of Central High School and Christian Lutton of Hollidaysburg were this year's recipients of the $1,250 scholarships. Both students and their families were welcomed to the event for dinner and to enjoy the day's events.

Over the past year, the Marauders MC has provided $12,000 in aid to local veterans and the SPC Chad A. Edmundson Memorial Foundation has provided an additional $9,000 in aid. All of these efforts are concentrated in the immediate local area. Members in attendance at the event from both organizations expressed the opportunity to be a part of this as a real honor and privilege.

Those interested in supporting these two groups can attend three more events scheduled for this year. These events provide the ability to continue the assistance of local vets in the Cove area.

Marauders MC will be holding a gun raffle at Shawnee Park in Roaring Spring on Friday, July 30, at 6 p.m. Tickets are still available. A ticket includes meal and beverages. For more information, contact Dan Neff at (814) 695-6649.

The Marauders MC will be hosting the annual Billy Garber Memorial Country Roads Ride on Saturday, Aug. 21. The 100-mile ride will culminate with a concert from local band Downshift. For more information, contact Thad Willey at (814) 937-5744.

The final event will be a Thanksgiving turkey giveaway sponsored by the Chad A. Edmundson Memorial Foundation. For more information, contact Roy Edmundson at (814) 312-8061.