Community Corner
Charity Motorcycle Ride to Benefit Olivia Taylor
Seven year old Olivia Taylor of West Haverstraw has a rare genetic disorder known as Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome
The Hudson Valley Harley Riders Charity Ride to benefit Olivia Taylor, a young girl from Haverstraw with a life-threatening illness was this past Sunday. The motorcycle ride began at the Dog House in Nanuet at 10 a.m., taking a scenic route through Rockland County and ending back and the Dog House. Riders arrived as early as 9 a.m. to sign up for the ride and all proceeds went to the Olivia Taylor Supplemental Needs Trust.
“Every year our club does charity rides for various causes,” said Linda Raffa, president of the Hudson Valley Harley Riders. “This year we chose Olivia Taylor; a couple of us knew her around the community.”
Seven year old Olivia Taylor of West Haverstraw has a rare genetic disorder known as Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome. This hereditary illness causes physical and mental difficulties, but Olivia is not afraid to share her positive attitude and a glowing smile with everyone. At noon, Olivia arrived with her parents, Mike and Kim Taylor, sporting pigtails of thick brunette braids and a big smile.
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“We have 100 members from all walks of life, doctors, accountants, you name it,” said Fred Perino, Head Road Captain of the club. “We wouldn’t even have known each other if not for motorcycles. This club is wonderful. No politics or cliques, it’s all about riding, having a good time, and giving back to the community.”
Upon returning to the Dog House at 1 p.m. there was food, music, door prizes and a 50/50 raffle. Many of the prizes were donated by members of the club, including a week in Killington VT, and a handmade quilt of Harley Davidson insignias, and various other Harley Davidson memorabilia. The DJ, DJ-JT, donated his time to the event, setting the mood with classic rock and country tunes.
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The Hudson Valley Harley Riders meet 8 p.m. every first Wednesday of the month at the American Legion in New City. They ride Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. from McDonald’s in New City.
Hiram Gonzalez, a member of the Blue Knights New York Chapter 2 and a rider in today’s ride, said he heard about the event through a friend.
“The Blue Knights run many charitable events and always come out to support the events of other chapters and clubs,” said Gonzalez.
The Blue Knights is an international group of people in law enforcement. Gonzalez explained, his favorite part about being involved with these clubs is that “they treat us like family even though we just met.”
The riders rolled in just after 1 p.m. from their ride. Jim Stines is a rider and member of the Hudson Valley Harley Riders.
“It was a beautiful ride, the scenery was terrific and we had great weather,” said Stines.
What riders loved most about the event was that they were able to help someone in need while doing what the love. And as she watched the unbridled support from the community, Olivia Taylor couldn’t help but smile as she melted the hearts of the toughest Harley riders.
