The Joey Guest Memorial Foundation is a non-profit organization located in Martin and is in memory of late Joey W. Guest who sadly passed in 2011 due to a motorcycle accident. Shortly after, this non profit organization was created, and they are now in their 14th year. Each year a Poker Run as well as other events are held, and there is a worthy recipient who will receive donations. This year, the recipient is Brian Turnbow and the run will be held on September 21.
Turnbow was at work one day when an employee noticed that his face was starting to droop. His girlfriend came home to him and called 911. He was then flown by Air Vac to Jackson Madison County Hospital. This is where his family was notified that he had a 90% blockage leading to his brain, which caused a stroke. He could not move or talk and spent many days in the ICU before the family was informed that the stroke was caused by Turnbow being hit in the head days prior. He started occupational therapy as well as physical therapy. While in therapy, he was let go from his job. His son Dalton started a GoFundMe page for his father, but it was not enough to cover all his medical bills, and he eventually lost his insurance. He was then able to get on TennCare and went back to therapy as well as receiving surgery on his shoulder, which was also affected with the stroke.
This annual event begins at the Hawk’s Nest, and all street legal vehicles are welcome. Registration starts at 10AM and kickstands will go up at 11AM. The stops include Southern State in South Fulton, Full Throttle in Trimble, Trenton city limits, Lil Darlins in Sharon, and back to the Hawk’s Nest in Martin. The cost to ride is $15 per person; $20 with a passenger. The prizes include $100 for the Best Hand and the Worst Hand winner will receive $75.
On top of the Poker Run, there will also be a silent auction, bike show, and BBQ plates happening the same day. BBQ plates will be $12 each. There will also be a raffle for a Charles Daily AR-12S gun; two $250 cash raffles and a 50/50 drawing. To end the night, there will be live music from BluSki at 10PM.
For more information about becoming a sponsor or participating in these events, contact Kenny Park at 731-514-5057