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Mostly Cloudy Elmont vets host seventh annual bike blessings
The Elmont American Legion Riders of Post 1033 held their seventh annual Blessing of the Bikes on April 21. The local veterans’ tradition invited Freeport’s Deacon Bruce Burnham to sprinkle holy water on more than 100 motorcycles to bless them and the 2018 riding season. Legion Rider Post director Peter Foltmer said the event serves as a way to promote motorcycle safety within the community.
“Sometimes you see a rider raise his eyebrows when he sees the deacon spraying water on his bike,” Foltmer said, jokingly. “The event creates a positive relationship between the bikers and their community.”
The bike blessing was accompanied by a community barbeque, with proceeds going to benefit local charities. Five members of Post 1033 formed Elmont’s branch of the American Legion Riders eight years ago in order to promote motorcycle safety and a social atmosphere for local riders. Elmont’s American Legion Riders Post 1033 also offers services in funeral processions and actively participates in local parades and ceremonies.
