BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — As country singer Oliver Anthony brings his Rural Revival Project Street Concert Series to Inez on May 17, First Frontier Appalachian Trails is helping him turn the spotlight toward those who have served.
Lara Mitchell Pack of First Frontier Appalachian Trails says the group is organizing an off-road ride the day before the concert to raise awareness and support for local veterans.
The Rural Revival Veterans Ride will take place May 16 and benefit the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 18. The volunteer-run chapter serves Johnson, Floyd and Martin counties.
“How blessed are we to be able to help this happen?” Pack said. “[Athony’s] mission is to highlight the plight of rural Appalachia, which includes but is certainly not limited to flood and economic struggle. His hope is also to inspire and engage our region in lifting one another, which he is certainly gifted in doing.”
The ride has drawn the support of off-road clubs across eastern Kentucky. Many are donating seats in their vehicles so veterans can participate.
“If you’re a veteran and want to join this ride with Oliver Anthony but you don’t have a ride, we will help you have a seat and enjoy this experience,” said Pack.
The ride will originate at Van Lear Camp and Ride, 316 Wolfpen Hollow in Johnson County. From there it will travel to the First Frontier Appalachian Trails in Debord in Martin County.
Folks will be on hand at the FFAT entrance to issue permits for those who do not have one. Permit prices are $25 for residents, $40 for non-residents, $15 for a three-day pass, $7 for a one-day pass. Any active duty or veteran with a military ID pays half-price on any permit. Children under 12 are free.
Helmet in side-by-sides is not a requirement. However, all trail riders must sign a waiver. Parents or guardians must sign a waiver for any child under the age of 18.
The Rural Revival Veterans Ride is open to the public. Proceeds will help DAV provide services such as transportation to VA hospitals and final military honors for deceased vets.
Registration for the ride is available at gforms.app/jMBpDrm and also through the Rural Revival ticketing page: app.vividtix.com/e/rrp-inez.
