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In a heartfelt fusion of camaraderie and purpose, the Hearts & Harleys organization is gearing up for its annual Domestic Violence Awareness Poker Run. This event not only unites motorcycle enthusiasts but also serves as a poignant tribute to victims of domestic violence, transforming personal tragedy into a beacon of hope and support for the community.
A Mission Born from Tragedy
The inception of Hearts & Harleys is deeply rooted in the personal loss of John Pabst, a Barnegat resident who, in 2014, endured the unimaginable tragedy of losing his seven-year-old son, Gavin, and Gavin's mother, Michelle Heist, to a heinous act of domestic violence. This profound loss propelled John to channel his grief into action, aiming to raise awareness about domestic violence and establish a sanctuary for victims in Southern Ocean County.
The Birth of the Poker Run
In the summer of 2014, prior to the tragedy, John and his friends organized a motorcycle poker run to support a family friend battling cancer. Gavin, affectionately involved, exemplified the spirit of community support. Following the loss, this event evolved into the Domestic Violence Awareness Poker Run, symbolizing resilience and the collective effort to combat domestic violence.
The Captain Cow Chopper: A Symbol of Hope
Central to this year's event is the unveiling of the Captain Cow Chopper, a custom-built motorcycle dedicated to domestic violence awareness. Crafted with meticulous care, the bike features a gleaming red base, symbolizing both the passion and urgency of the cause. The transformation of this motorcycle into a symbol of hope has been a collaborative effort, with multiple vendors discounting parts and labor to support the mission.
Event Details
Date: July 27, 2024 (Rain Date: August 3, 2024)
Registration: Begins at 10:30 a.m. at Nancy’s Country Kitchen, 910 West White Horse Pike, Egg Harbor City
Participants: Open to motorcycles, trikes, jeeps, hot rods, and cars
Route: The run concludes at the Watering Hole Café in Mays Landing, where the Captain Cow Chopper will be unveiled
Proceeds from the event will support Hearts & Harleys' mission to assist domestic violence victims, with a portion allocated to the construction of the Captain Cow Chopper. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to bridge funding gaps, ensuring that donations intended for victims continue to directly support them.
Community Involvement
The success of this initiative is a testament to the power of community collaboration. Individuals like Dennis Deevy, who has dedicated time and talent to promote the event, and Anthony Moresco of TonyMexx Custom Painting, who prepared and painted the Captain Cow Chopper, exemplify the collective effort driving this cause.
Join the Cause
Hearts & Harleys invites all to participate in the poker run, whether as riders or supporters. The event promises a day of unity, remembrance, and action against domestic violence. By joining, participants contribute to a legacy of support and awareness, ensuring that tragedies like Gavin and Michelle's are not forgotten and that survivors receive the assistance they need.
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