Poker run to help Cody Smith

Cody Smith’s life forever changed when he was involved in a head-on collision with a nursery truck in March.

To help the family with continuing medical bills, the local Moose Lodge is conducting a benefit poker run for Smith this Saturday. The goal is to raise $3,000 and Moose Lodge member Ken Beckwith says the organization currently has about $500.

Smith suffered a traumatic brain injury in the crash and still struggles with day-to-day living. Beckwith says he can walk short distances with the help of a walker.

It’s an all-vehicle poker run meaning motorcycles as well as passenger cars, trucks and SUVs are welcome. The poker run is being called the Savage Gulf Gallop because it covers roughly 90 miles around McMinnville and atop the mountain.

Participants will drive to seven locations and receive one card at each stop, beginning with a card at the Moose Lodge. At the end of the ride, participants will have a seven-card hand, with the best poker hand getting $100.

‘Poker runs are a lot of fun because they give you a chance to get out and see the country,’ said Beckwith.

Stops include the Eagle’s Club in Rock Island, Skip’s Market in Spencer, A&H Market near Fall Creek Falls, Joyce’s Market on Harrison Ferry, Smed’s Place in McMinnville, and the Moose Lodge on Smithville Highway.

The first vehicle is scheduled to leave Saturday at 10 a.m. with the last vehicle departing at noon. The run is set to end by 5 p.m.

The cost of one hand is $10, or three hands for $25. A silent auction follows the poker run and includes such items as a big-screen TV and Dale Earnhardt No. 3 jacket.

For more information call 668-9995.