Benefit slated to aid CMA riders Van and Nancy Reed

A benefit will be held at the Dyer County Fairgrounds on Saturday, July 18, to aid Van and Nancy Reed, members of the Dyersburg Chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association involved in a serious motorcycle accident on June 13. The Reeds, of Hornbeak, have been involved in numerous Bikers Helping Hands benefits to aid local children and families affected by illness or tragedy. The Van and Nancy Family Fun and Dice Run Benefit is an opportunity for the community to return the favor. A dice run, auction, spaghetti supper, inflatable games, face painting, karaoke, concessions and live music are planned for the all-day, family-friendly event. Those interested in more information may call 445-71963 or 445-1946. [Click to enlarge]

As members of the Dyersburg Chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association, the couple has worked on every Bikers Helping Hands benefit in the community, coming to the aid of local families - especially children - affected by illness.

A benefit slated for Saturday, July 18, is a chance for the Dyer County community to return the favor.

The Reeds were involved in a serious motorcycle accident on their way to the Dyersburg CMA Chapter's Run for the Son on June 13. Officials believe that the motorcycle they were riding on ran over debris on the roadway, causing a blowout in the back tire.

Both Van and Nancy were admitted to The Med with serious injuries. With only unemployment wages as their income and no insurance, the price of saving their lives will be a steep one.

"Van and Nancy worked on every one of (the Bikers Helping Hands benefits) from the very beginning," said fellow CMA member Deborah Davidson. "Every time there is a need, they are there to help. They are both out to The Med now, but they are a long way from well."

The Reeds' fellow CMA members are joining motorcycle clubs throughout the region to host a benefit in the Family Life Building of the Dyer County Fairgrounds July 18.

A family-friendly event, the day will begin with a dice run with the first bike out scheduled for 1 p.m. Other events include inflatable games and face painting for the children, karaoke, hamburgers, hot dogs and live music from 1 p.m. until the evening is over. A spaghetti dinner will take place at 4 p.m., followed by an auction at 6 p.m.

All benefits will go toward medical expenses for the Reeds.

"Dyer, Lauderdale, Lake and Obion - all those counties have always helped to support people in need," said Davidson. "We are hoping they will turn out again. We have some great auction items. People have been so generous."

Auction items already donated include grills, candles, flower arrangements, motorcycle accessories and even a "Night on the Town" package, featuring movie tickets, dinner, a motel for the night and breakfast the next morning.

"We are hoping people will come and we can get them some help with their medical bills," said Davidson. "They are great people, very deserving."

Those interested in more information or making a donation to the auction may call 445-1963 or 445-1946. Those interested in donating directly to the Reed family may send a check to Dyersburg Disciples-CMA, PO Box 1, Dyersburg, TN 38024.