Motorcycle club rides for fun, remembrance and safety

We’re celebrating Arrowhead H.O.G. 5104 chapter motorcycle club for 34 years of dedicated Adopt a Highway volunteer service. The club’s first permit was issued in 1991.

Leader and former club director Richard Sporski became involved in the program about 25 years ago with the group’s first two-mile adoption just north of Yarnell along State Route 89. Cleanup records show volunteers have removed 1.1 tons of litter since then. 

The club adopted an additional two miles in 2023 along State Route 74 in memory of dear friends and fellow bikers Robert and Deborah Terry, whose lives were lost in 2022 nearby. More than 600 pounds of trash has been removed in their honor.

Sporski, wife Sherri and fellow rider Laura Mancino shared their involvement with me at ADOT’s volunteer appreciation event held for Phoenix area adopters. Sherri Sporski said, “We ride to eat and eat to ride,” about heading to their favorite foodie joints after club rides and volunteer events. “It’s the camaraderie we enjoy,” Mancino, a 16-year volunteer, chimed.

“If you have any ideas about doing it, join in – it’s a lot of fun,“ Sporski said, “It is because of the people at ADOT that we signed up.” From an avid biker’s perspective, Sporski is also aware of the effects that litter and unsecured loads can have on bikers and motorists alike, and being a part of the solution is why they do it. 

I’d like to thank Richard, Sherri and Laura for sharing the joys of biking with me and for leading the way for fellow volunteers to help beautify and keep Arizona’s roadways safe. 

ADOT thanks civic-minded organizations like Arrowhead H.O.G. 5104 chapter motorcycle club for including litter pickups as a part of the club’s way to give back to the community. If you are interested in adopting, please visit azdot.gov/adoptahighway.