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We found the perfect location! I’ve traveled all over the USA and several other countries but one of my favorite places in the world is located just 200 miles from home. There is something special about the Mississippi River are and the bluffs that surround it. Watching the barges drift along the river from high above with a gentle breeze and sun on my face, well, it makes me SMILE! Often, while planning an event that hosts over 100 people, I can hardly wait to reveal the wonderful places and people I have met and this year was one of my favorites.
Last year while out exploring the area, event participant Barbara Hayden told me she thought she had found a wonderful location for our event. As a skier, she had gone to Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort in Galena, IL to check it out. What she found was a facility that not only was able to host our entire group under one roof but they had all of the amenities that made our event wonderful from start to finish. Ann Skemp from Dubuque sketched out a proposed Poker Run Route with stops that are favorites of the local riders. The stops and our agenda took us through all 3 states, took us on beautiful winding back roads and along the Mississippi River for those who visited Poopy’s in Savannah. The warm welcome of our Poker Run hosts was a pleasure and the weather could not have been more cooperative.
Friday evening Dubuque Harley Davidson greeted us with a sloppy joe dinner made by General manager Heidi. Participants always enjoy shopping in the “Attic” where a deal is just waiting to be found! We headed back to the hotel for a bonfire and a beautiful view of the Mississippi. The Alpine Slides and chair lifts were still running for those who wanted to join in that fun. Some folks had come to Galena on Thursday so they had already enjoyed the slides, Segway tours and mini or frisbee golf. Walking paths took you to amazing views! Late on Friday evening we could be found roasting giant marshmallows over a bon fire with Schnidrr playing his acoustic guitar with sing along oldies.
Saturday people were up early to head out to the Dickeyville Grotto. From there people went to Anton’s in New Diggins,, Council Hill Station for ice cream, The Cove restaurant for a view of Apple Canyon Lake and Poopy’s in Savannah for Biker oriented fun and a Tattoo Shop right on site. Saturday night we had dinner, silent auction, live music, door prizes and 50/50 all underneath the “wedding tent” overlooking the Mississippi. Many winners and lots of fun as we decided this was an event and location that must be shared! This year WIM Road Guards, Rescue Riders, ABATE of Wisconsin, ASM instructors from 3 states and more, Diva Amy from Utah and Hall of Fame recipient Jo Govannoni were some of the people who supported out largest fundraiser of the year.
Sunday we ended the event with our always fun “Topless Bike Wash” where the guys was the girls (and Chris Alsip’s) bike TOPLESS! Lots of laughter and pictures. We talked to the staff and started booking rooms for next year. They are blocking the entire hotel for us! It’s not too early but you definitely don’t want to be too late. Make you plans now to join us for the 16th annual Road Guardians River Road Fundraiser July 14-17, 2016. Call Chestnut Mountain Resort to reserve your room 800-397-1320
