Ride To Benefit Autism

A poker run and pig roast this month will benefit children with Autism and the Autism Society of Connecticut (ASConn).

The Father’s Day Poker Run on June 17 departs from Pub 25 American Grille at 266 South Main Street, and travels to bars in New Milford, Southbury, and Derby. Registration begins at 9 am. Single motorcycle riders are $25, and passengers are $15. Bikes will leave the pub before 11 am and return for 3 pm. A pig roast at the pub will begin at 1:30 pm. Tickets for the pig roast only are $15 for adults and $5 for children. The roast will include raffles.

All proceeds go to ASConn. “We aren’t taking a penny,” said pub owner Kurt Popick. His son Gavin, 7, is autistic.

When Mr Popick owned a coffee shop in Monroe, he had held fundraisers for different causes, “but nothing on this level.” Expecting several hundred participants on Father’s Day, he hopes the Autism society will see a big benefit. “We chose ASConn, because all the money stays in Connecticut,” he said. ASConn has already benefited his son by supplying fencing for the yard, Mr Popick said.

Manager Phyllis Gavin credited “some of our patrons” in part, with the idea to hold the benefit. The day’s ride will include stops at 1st and 10 Sports Bar and Grill in New Milford, The Lodge Bar & Grill in Southbury, and the Dew Drop Inn in Derby. The ride returns to the pub, and the best poker hands win prizes, including a projection screen TV and cash.

Live music and entertainment will be provided by John Voket.

Contact the pub at 203-270-3425 for more information. Rain date is June 24.