PADUCAH — Local residents came together this weekend for the second annual Love Life for Jason suicide awareness ride, honoring Jason Gillum’s memory and promoting mental health awareness.
The event, hosted at Paducah’s Four Rivers Harley Davidson, aimed to illuminate the issues surrounding suicide and mental health, uniting riders from various regions. Members of the Widow’s Sons Masonic Riders Association, including chapters from Cape Girardeau and Poplar Bluff, participated to show solidarity and support.
“This is Love Life for Jason,” shared Angie Gillum, Jason’s mother. “We’re here to raise awareness about suicide and help anyone feel a little less isolated.”
Jason Gillum, who tragically took his own life on October 5, 2012, was a dedicated licensed practical nurse aspiring to become a registered nurse. “He struggled to overcome his depression,” his mother recounted with emotion. “He was a wonderful person.”
The impact of his loss still lingers, affecting both family and community members who never had the chance to meet him. Rick Gillum, from the Widow’s Sons, expressed how deeply the tragedy affected him, stating, “It still hurts me because I see what it does to her.”
The gathering not only honors Jason’s memory but also serves as a catalyst for change.
“Suicide is often ignored,” remarked Angie Gillum. “We’re here to change that. If I can help even one person through this, it will have been worth it.”
Organizers encouraged everyone in need to seek support. “If you’re struggling, please reach out for help,” Gillum emphasized. “Call 988… someone is always available to listen.”
The national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers free and confidential support 24/7 for anyone in crisis.
Les Clinton navigates his Matchless through the infamous Rope Works course in 1955.
Inaugurated on June 17, 1928, the Harley Scramble course was crafted by Aubrey Melrose and Roy Charman, who had just returned from competing in the legendary Isle of Man, Scott Trial, and International Six Day Trial, alongside a rising sport called “scrambles.” They pitched the idea to the Harley Davidson Motor Cycle Club, creating a route from Perth to Fremantle, concluding on the banks of the Swan River, which was later refined to a 20-square-kilometre track filled with challenging hairpin turns, slides, ascents, and bends, named after the local rope factory.
“The track was so demanding on machines that competitors sought out spare wheels and chains along the way for a better chance of finishing,” Steyntjes recounts.
“In the event’s early days, rope crews were stationed atop the steepest hills, equipped with ropes and grappling hooks, to assist riders who lost momentum on the climbs and prevent blockages for those behind.”
Peter Nicol, the 1954 Harley Scramble champion, on one of Rope Works’ ascents.
A rider down during the inaugural Harley Scramble, 1928.
“In 1932, modifications were made to the course, creating a clearing of over 300 meters for more spectators and viewpoints. Within ten years, the Harley Scramble had transformed into possibly Australia’s first natural terrain motocross track.”
Race entries quickly turned invitation-only, extended only to elite motorcycle talent, given the course’s infamous difficulty; in 1931, merely ten out of 28 competitors finished the full four circuits of the four-mile course.
Peter Nicol, the 1954 Harley Scramble winner, on his Matchless machine.
The Harley Scramble thrived, attracting an extraordinary attendance of 20,000 in 1955, until 1964, when expanding residential areas and the approval of a nearby drive-in theater marked the end of the legendary Rope Works course. However, remnants of the race remain, with Harley Terrace situated at the start and finish of the circuit.
Eventually, the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Club found a new location in York, remaining there until 1978, before merging with the BSA Motorcycle Club in 1993 to revive the Harley Scramble at the Noble Falls circuit in Gidgegannup.
Bill Watson racing on the Rope Works course in 1951.
“Sharing this incredible tale and significant piece of Australian history with Mosman Park residents—and motorcycling fans nationwide—is the essence of this event,” Steyntjes remarks.
“Harley Scramble legends were well-known figures in Perth from the 1940s to the 1960s. I want to honor their accomplishments and ensure their stories are preserved for the future.”
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Seven-time WA State Motocross Champion, Bill Watson.
The documentary will premiere at Mosman Park’s newly restored Camelot Arts Club—historically a venue where daring riders once raced nearly a century ago—during a special event on June 14.
In addition to the documentary screening, the event will include a live Q&A, hosted by the legendary Claremont Speedway commentator, Con Migro, featuring champion riders like seven-time WA State Motocross Champion Bill Watson and three-time WA State Motocross Champion Bob O’Leary, along with an exclusive showcase of vintage bikes, trophies, and memorabilia.
The event will honor the late Peter Nicol, a five-time Harley Scramble champion and significant contributor to the film who passed away in March 2025 at the age of 94.
For tickets to the premiere event of Harley Scramble: The Birth of Australian Motocross, please visit the Camelot Arts Club website here.
Traeger pellet smoker grill for sale. Comes with an insulated blanket, measures 28″ across, and is a smaller model on a stand. Asking $200. Contact 957-6355
2015 Harley Davidson motorcycle with 16,000 miles. Reach out at 712-348-5101
Two Sound Design speakers, an 8-inch subwoofer, and a 3-inch tweeter with radio for $50. Also selling a home stereo system. Call 712-540-4331
Metal raised chicken feeder, approximately six feet long and in good condition. Asking $5.00. Call 712-261-6493
Cement lids and 50-gallon barrels, available in steel or plastic. Contact 712-441-2047
PullRite 5th wheel hitch compatible with factory option for Ford trucks with Puck Hole system, rated for 1800. Also for sale: a Dahon 3-speed folding bike. Call 712-324-1371
Outdoor storage building available. Call 324-1015
25 round bales of grass hay. Contact 712-348-4404
Livestock trailer for sale. Call 441-1574
’93 Explorer boat available for $4,500. Call 461-1451
Wanted:
Interested in purchasing a gun collection or will trade for a coin collection. Contact 712-395-0165
Giveaway:
Offering a Free Cutty’s Membership. Call 712-324-1371 or 712-324-1340
Lost and Found:
Found: A gold bangle bracelet at Sheldon City Park on Monday morning. It’s been taken to the Sheldon Police Station. If this belongs to you, please visit the Police Station.
Knowledge Nugget:
40% of people are not thrilled about the prospect of sharing the road with self-driving cars.
PADUCAH — Whether it is eggs or candy, this year’s Easter celebration was anticipated to come at a higher cost for families compared to last year. The National Retail Federation’s annual survey indicated that consumers were expected to spend $23.6 billion for the holiday, a rise from the previous year’s $22.4 billion.
Arriyonna Allen
This year’s expenses for Easter festivities prompted various local organizations to step up their efforts in assisting families in need and those looking to save a few dollars.
Four Rivers Harley Davidson organized an Easter egg hunt on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Children had the opportunity to search for plastic eggs filled with treats and even meet the Easter Bunny for photos. This event was entirely free, easing the burden for parents trying to manage Easter celebrations.
Arriyonna Allen
Liz Stressler, the organizer of the event this year, emphasized that her goal was to be a stress reliever for families participating in the inaugural event.
Arriyonna Allen
“It’s fantastic to be able to give back to the community, which is something we aim to do by offering a free event. Such accessibility removes the burden from parents, providing a stress-free environment where they don’t have to worry about setup or cleanup,” she stated.
Arriyonna Allen
For Stressler, contributing and being present in the community embodies the true spirit of Easter.
On March 29th, the “End the 22 Poker Run” held in honor of CPL Mitchell Bassett will kick off at noon at Harley Davidson of Montgomery. The route will include stops at American Legion Post 133, American Legion Post 122, VFW 1349, and will culminate at the Pine Bar Courtyard in Old Cloverdale, Montgomery.
Participants will be charged a fee of $20 per person, but contributions are welcome even if you do not participate in the ride. The event welcomes all types of vehicles. A portion of the proceeds will support VB422, Veteran Bikers 4 22 a Day.
Registration will open at Harley Davidson at 10:30 a.m.
This ride aims to raise awareness about the alarming statistic that 22 current and former military personnel take their own lives each day.
The ride is expected to conclude at approximately 4 p.m. at the Pine Bar Courtyard in Old Cloverdale. Attendees can look forward to entertainment, including a cash prize for Best Hand Wins, door prizes, raffles, guest speakers, and live music.
***This is a benefit ride. Proceeds will support me, with a portion allocated to a veterans ride planned for Veterans Day week in 2026.
About Mitchell:
Mitchell Bassett was a prominent figure in the Autauga and Elmore communities. Born in Birmingham and raised in central Alabama, he enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2007 and was medically retired in 2014 due to combat-related PTSD, moral injury, and a permanent service-related physical disability. Tragically, Mitchell lost his battle on November 29 of the previous year.
2016. Harley Davidson Iron Sportster 883. CV16 YHX. Grey. 883cc. Petrol.
Introduced in 2009, the Harley Davidson Iron Sportster 883, has assumed the mantle of being Harley’s cheapest, entry-level bike. Powered by the 883cc Evolution V-twin and inspired by garage-built bobbers, the Iron 883 is intentionally raw and rough around the edges, with clipped fenders, blacked-out powertrain and exhaust, drag-style handlebars and a solo tuck-and-roll seat cover. Although the Iron 883 might not be the most ideal beginner bike, it is one of the best to choose if you are a Harley fan. The Iron 883 is one of the best looking Harley’s by many. It has a beastly look that is classic at the same time as it is modern.
2016. Harley Davidson Iron 883. CV16 YHX. Aug 2022 (1) flic.kr/p/2nHpiED
2016. Harley Davidson Iron 883. CV16 YHX. Aug 2022 (2) flic.kr/p/2nHpTrH
2016. Harley Davidson Iron 883. CV16 YHX. Aug 2022 (3) flic.kr/p/2nHnHpu
2016. Harley Davidson Iron 883. CV16 YHX. Aug 2022 (4) flic.kr/p/2nHnHiH
Album: Notts Classic Car & Motorcycle Show. Thoresby Park, Nottinghamshire. Aug 2022
— No Group Banners, thanks.
2016. Harley Davidson Iron Sportster 883. CV16 YHX. Grey. 883cc. Petrol.
Introduced in 2009, the Harley Davidson Iron Sportster 883, has assumed the mantle of being Harley’s cheapest, entry-level bike. Powered by the 883cc Evolution V-twin and inspired by garage-built bobbers, the Iron 883 is intentionally raw and rough around the edges, with clipped fenders, blacked-out powertrain and exhaust, drag-style handlebars and a solo tuck-and-roll seat cover. Although the Iron 883 might not be the most ideal beginner bike, it is one of the best to choose if you are a Harley fan. The Iron 883 is one of the best looking Harley’s by many. It has a beastly look that is classic at the same time as it is modern.
2016. Harley Davidson Iron 883. CV16 YHX. Aug 2022 (1) flic.kr/p/2nHpiED
2016. Harley Davidson Iron 883. CV16 YHX. Aug 2022 (2) flic.kr/p/2nHpTrH
2016. Harley Davidson Iron 883. CV16 YHX. Aug 2022 (3) flic.kr/p/2nHnHpu
2016. Harley Davidson Iron 883. CV16 YHX. Aug 2022 (4) flic.kr/p/2nHnHiH
Album: Notts Classic Car & Motorcycle Show. Thoresby Park, Nottinghamshire. Aug 2022
— No Group Banners, thanks.
