May 8, 2006 – Two Pennsylvania locals are organizing the first Go for Gallardy Poker run June 24, 2006 in honor of Altoona, PA Local 299 member Bob Gallardy, who was killed last year while conducting a class at the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy.

Organized as an official 4th District IAFF-MG event, proceeds will benefit the Bob Gallardy Memorial Fund, which is used to pay for fire fighter training. Prizes will also be awarded at the end of the ride for the “best hands.”

“Bob and several members of Altoona Local 299 and Johnstown Local 463 ride,” says Art Martynuska, president of Local 463 and Poker Run coordinator. “We thought this would be the best way to remember our fallen brother.”

For more information or to register, visit www.visitjohnstownpa.com or call Art Martynuska at (814) 525-0536 (cell) or (814) 255-1563 (home). Registration is $25 per rider.

This event will be held in conjunction with “Thunder in the Valley,” one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the country. On average, 100,000 riders travel to Johnstown for the occasion.

Donations can also be made to: Bob Gallardy Memorial Fund c/o the Central Pennsylvania Foundation Johnstown Professional Fire Fighters P.O. Box 454 Johnstown, PA 15907