Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday with Patriotic Theme
The Richland Chambers Reservoir families and community members will come together under the Harbor Pavillion to take part in this year’s Benefit RC Fundraiser & Poker Run, scheduled for July 18, 2026. This fundraiser supports the Volunteer Fire Departments that serve the lakeside communities and neighborhoods.
The event will feature a patriotic theme as we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States. In honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary, Benefit RC is encouraging participants to dress in patriotic attire and decorate their boats in red, white and blue or with other patriotic themes.
The celebration will also include a silent and live auction, Bludso’s Barbecue lunch, live music by the FOG and plenty of community camaraderie, as participants gather to celebrate and support the Volunteer Fire Departments that serve the Lake.
Participants can earn poker hands 2 ways. First, those who want to enjoy the Lake can go to each pickup point and receive chips that can be exchanged for the cards to make a poker hand. Land lovers can buy the infamous “BLACK CHIP” that can be exchanged for a poker hand as well. So. whether you boat or not you can take part in the Poker Run and be the lucky winner.
“The RC Poker Run is always the biggest event of the year on Richland Chamber and a highlight for lake enthusiasts and visitors alike,” said John Teel, chairman of the board of Benefit RC. “This year’s patriotic theme makes it even more special as we celebrate our country’s 250 years of history and the freedoms we enjoy.”
Proceeds from the event benefit the volunteer fire departments that serve the Richland Chambers Reservoir are greatly needed and help supplement the expense of protective gear, equipment and training.
Participants are welcome to take part in all the activities including the live and silent auction. This is a family-friendly event so bring the kids and mix & mingle with folks from all over the lake.
Event Details
Date: July 18, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Location: The Harbor Pavillion at Richland Chambers Reservoir
Participants may register on-site or in advance at REMAX Teel Team offices. Sponsorships, donations and community support, and volunteers are welcome.
For more information about the Benefit RC Poker Run, including registration details or sponsorship opportunities, please visit our website at www.BenefitRC.org or contact: Ken Higdon, PR Chairman, at 254-770-8231, Khigdon@live.com, or www.benefitrc.org.
About Benefit RC
Benefit RC has hosted the Poker Run for more than 10 years and is approaching $ 750,000 raised for our Volunteer Fire Departments. The organization’s mission is simple yet powerful — to support the Richland Chambers lake area community. Last year alone, Benefit RC raised $155,000 for local volunteer fire departments, so let’s do it again this year!
