The American Legion Riders Post 626 of Birdsboro will present a bike and car cruise-in on Sunday, July 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Michael's Restaurant, 1211 Benjamin Franklin Highway, Douglassville. The show is free and open to the public and there are no registration fees required for vehicle owners.

Last year, the group's car and motorcycle shows were held at Annamarie's on Main in Birdsboro, but the event was moved to Michael's because it offers additional parking spaces.

The first event this year was held at Michael's on June 9, and it featured a display of motorcycles by members of the Riders group. "We had about 40 to 50 bikes and about two dozen cars," reported Riders member Betty Kennedy, whose husband, Earl "Chip" Kennedy, is the chapter's road captain. "This time we are focusing on (attracting) more cars to get a good variety."

"This is not a show; it is a cruise-in, so there are no trophies," she added. "People can come and hang out."

She said Michael's is an ideal location for a cruise-in because it is centrally located at the intersection of routes 422 and 662, making it easily accessible. "We needed their parking lot. They are right off 422, and there is extra parking for visitors," Betty noted. She added that the car shows were typically held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., but the time was changed primarily to the cooler morning hours for summer.

A DJ will provide oldies music during the cruise-in, and attendees will have an opportunity to win gift baskets. Craft vendors will be on hand offering items such as homemade baked goods, homemade dog treats and woodcrafts. There will also be a vendor selling smoothies and frozen coffee.

Donations collected at the event will be used by the Riders to fund projects that help local veterans. "It's not one specific group we write a check to," explained Betty, providing details of the club's service projects. "We built a handicapped ramp for a veteran that could no longer walk. We took care of a gentleman who could not afford a transmission for his car, and we paid for it. We helped a man living in his car with his dog. We got his dog registered as an emotional support (animal) and provided funds for the first few months of rent to get him started." The group has also helped veterans in need with clothing and food.

The American Legion Riders, led by director Doug Moore, are motorcycle enthusiasts who belong to the American Legion, the Legion Auxiliary or the Sons of the American Legion. Post 626 is located at 445 E. Main St., Birdsboro. The group's motto is, "We ride in honor of those who have served, are still serving and those who have given the ultimate sacrifice."

"We want the veterans to know we are here. They can reach out, and we can do what we can. That's what we are here for," Betty said. "(Veterans have) put their lives on the line for people they don't know. We should be giving back to them."

In the event of rain, the cruise-in will be held on Sunday, July 21. For more information about the cruise-in or the Legion Riders, visit www.facebook.com/Riders626 or follow ALRchapter626 on Instagram. Those with questions or vendors interested in participating in the cruise-in should email alriders626@gmail.com.