The morning of December 5th was cold and cloudy, but many Blue Knights and friends had warm Christmas spirit as we gathered in Beaumont for the 6th Annual Christmas Motorcycle Run to Twin Pines Ranch.  We were again joined by two old friends, and Blue Knights, who rode significant distances: Larry Kunard from El Paso, Texas and Buster Hummel from Yuma, Arizona.  Over fifty motorcycles with support vehicles from the Blue Knights, Bible Thumpers, and Black Sheep clubs made their way up Highway 243 and into the valley of Twin Pines Ranch – a division of the Riverside County Probation Department.

The program started with a special honor guard of cadets presenting the colors and it continued with a superb buffet lunch provided by the cadets and staff of the ranch.  This has always been a great opportunity to have one-on-one conversation between the cadets and law enforcement officers.  Also, for the first time this year, it was a special pleasure to have members of the Youth Accountability Council present.  Rod Purcell, President of the Blue Knights CA-IV, made a special presentation of a Blue Knights badge to Supervisor Marion Ashley recognizing his many years of dedication and support to the young men at Twin Pines Ranch.  Comments on the event, volunteers, and staff were made by Supervisor Ashley, Chief Probation Officer Alan Crogan, and Twin Pines Ranch Director Ron Miller. Gift bags were presented to all the cadets from the donations of Supervisor Ashley and the members of the Blue Knights California Chapter IV.  The highlight of the day was Supervisor Ashley presenting Chief Crogan with a check for $30,000 from the Board of Supervisors to fund future vocational programs at the ranch.  A special Thank You was given to Riverside County Supervisors Marion Ashley, Jeff Stone, John Tavaglione, and John Benoit for their generous donations of limited discretionary funds.

The committee and chapter members of CA-IV look forward to planning and supporting this event next year and we continue, as retired and active law enforcement officers, to encourage these young men to complete their individual vocational programs.  Success at Twin Pines Ranch will change their lives for the better and the Blue Knights hope to be part of reason they ultimately become law-abiding citizens.