Red & Gold Party rides into fairgrounds

The Wheat Land Communities’ Fairgrounds has been rented for a private party this weekend. The event is known as the Third Annual Eastside Red & Gold Party. Hosted by the Adams County Amigos Motorcycle Club, the event is expected to attract a few hundred motorcycle enthusiasts.

The event was previously held just outside the City of Ritzville at a private location.

Police Chief David McCormick told the Ritzville City Council that he just learned of the gathering Tuesday morning. He had a copy of the event flyer and said he has been told the event could attract up to 350 motorcycle enthusiasts. The chief said he expects members of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club to attend.

Since learning of the gathering, McCormick told the council he has been in contact with a number of entities including the Washington State Liquor Control Board and the Washington State Patrol. He also spoke with Fritz Coon, president of the WLCF Board of Directors, regarding security for the event.

McCormick said he also learned a shuttle bus is planned to transport people from the fairgrounds to the Ritzville Pastime, which will have a live band on Saturday night.

“I’m telling you I’m concerned about what might be going on,” McCormick told the city council. His concern, he said, relates to the number of events in the area this weekend and the lack of additional law enforcement staffing.

The event flyer encourages attendees to also take part in the Lind Combine Demolition Derby. “Come support the Red & Gold truck in the races. Last year we smashed the competition and won first place,” the flyer states.

The Friday and Saturday event is advertised as $20 per person or $30 per couple by donation only. It is not open to the public. Instead the event is advertised as being for invited guests only and attendees must be 18 years of age or older.

A spokesperson for the Adams County Amigos MC said the event will result in significant support of local businesses. They said it is possible for up to 350 people to attend, and the Top Hat Motel, Colwell Motor Inn and the Empire Motel will be completely filled by event goers. They also said local restaurants, gas stations and convenience stores will benefit from the gathering.

Combat veterans and Christian motorcycle club members are also expected for the event. A portion of the proceeds collected during the event will be donated to veterans’ organizations.

The Amigos spokesperson said they are planning for a fun, trouble-free weekend event.

“We don’t tolerate illegal drug activity,” they said. “We police ourselves.”