The third annual Ray Miller Memorial Poker Run will roll out on August 1, bringing together riders, poker enthusiasts and community members in a celebration of a beloved baseball coach whose career spanned the Baltimore Orioles, Minnesota Twins and Pittsburgh Pirates.
A Rally of Wheels and Cards
Participants will set out on a scenic motorcycle ride that threads through local bars before gathering for a poker hand showdown, where the best and worst hands win gift cards from Valley Harley‑Davidson, adding a playful twist to the fundraiser.
Admission is priced at $30 per bike, a fee that covers the ride, a communal meal and entry into a series of raffles and tip boards that keep the energy high throughout the day, while donations of any size are welcomed from those who choose simply to support the cause.
Organizers have built in a contingency plan: if inclement weather threatens the schedule, the event will be shifted to a designated rain date the following day, ensuring the fundraiser can proceed safely without dampening the spirit of giving.
Scholarship Details
Proceeds support a scholarship awarded each winter to a high school athlete who excels in sports and intends to continue his or her athletic career at the collegiate level, provided the student's parents are members of the Fairpoint Polish Club.
While the scholarship has traditionally been open to baseball players, officials have broadened the criteria to include any sport, reflecting a commitment to recognizing diverse athletic talents and encouraging participation across disciplines.
Beyond the ride and the cards, the gathering serves as a fundraiser for the local community, drawing attention to the legacy of Ray Miller, whose coaching journey left an indelible mark on the teams he guided and the young athletes he inspired.
Community members who wish to contribute can do so in any amount, even if they do not join the motorcycle procession, further expanding the event's impact and reinforcing the collective effort to nurture the next generation of student‑athletes.