OK, I admit it. I’m in full-on Desert Storm Poker Run mode and this column, along with last week’s version on the charitable rides affiliated with the poker run in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., surely won’t be the last story I write about the 2016 event. So, with this being the 10th year of the Street Party and all, I came up with 10 reasons why this Thursday’s gathering along McCulloch Boulevard could turn out to be the best one yet. (Download a pdf the Street Party map here.)

The 10th annual Desert Storm Poker Run Street Party is taking place this Thursday in Lake Havasu City, Ariz. Photo by Jason Johnson

First of all, Dave Johnson, the “Dave” behind the popular River Dave’s Place online community, is hosting a concert that he promises is going to start rockin’ right around sundown. Read more about it in Matt Trulio’s story.

Second, catching up with old friends and making new ones is always a high point for anyone in attendance at the Street Party. I particularly enjoy chatting with readers and being able to visit with friends from Advantage Boats, Mercury Racing, Nordic Boats, Teague Custom Marine, DCB Performance Boats and many more, in such a laid-back, yet festive environment.

Read more: Ready to Party?