Seventy area motorcycle enthusiasts spent a recent Sunday doing what they love most: riding together through the picturesque Litchfield Hills. They were on more than a joy ride, though, they rode to help Greater Waterbury nursing home residents. The motorcyclists took part in the Siemon Company's annual Poker Run that benefited the Home-to-Home Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing joy and purpose to nursing home residents.

Beginning and ending at the Siemon Company headquarters in Watertown, the August 6 event had riders stopping at four checkpoints to draw a playing card. At the completion of the run, the top poker hands won prizes.

The sunny, hot day was made for a ride in the country and was followed by music, raffles and prizes.      

"I'm thrilled to be able to share the Siemon Company's success with residents of nursing homes," said Carl Siemon, president of The Siemon Company. "We are very happy to be out here on this beautiful day, to ride these extraordinary machines for such a worthy cause."

Dr. Richard Silverman, founder and president of the Home-to-Home Foundation said, "We are extremely grateful to The Siemon Company, to Carl, and to all the riders and volunteers for helping us to have more programs in nursing homes."

Locally, the Home-to-Home Foundation runs programs in Watertown Convalarium and Waterbury Extended Care. Several Watertown residents are involved with the foundation in a leadership capacity including Lisa Taccardi, president of Angels Watching Over You, Inc.; Colleen Ortelle, Waterbury Hospital ICU Nurse, and Guy Buzzannco, Siemon Company.

For more information, call Tracey Sperry at 203-757-5449 or visit www.hometohomefoundation.org.