Sentinels of Freedom “run” for children Published Nov. 3, 2006 By Tech. Sgt. Stefanie Kollar 16th LRS HURLBURT FIELD, Fla -- What started as a brisk morning for a ride turned into a beautiful day for a 112-mile cruise through the Florida panhandle. From the beach along Florida's Gulf Coast up through the Black Water River State Forest and back around the Pensacola Bay. A better day couldn't have been selected for the Sentinels of Freedom's Second Annual Poker Run. The Hurlburt Sentinels of Freedom sponsored a Poker Run to benefit the kids at Brilliant Minds of Destin. Brilliant Minds - Medical and Behavioral Solutions Unlimited - is a non-profit organization whose mission is to devise and implement individualized, multi-disciplinary, medical, evidence-based behavioral treatments and educational resources for children diagnosed with Autism, Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities. Last year, the SOF were able to donate $1,061 towards Brilliant Minds and $530.50 toward the Hurricane Katrina Relief effort, via the Red Cross. This year they raised $1500 and personally presented their gift check to the children, Medical Di-rector Dr. Ana Leurinda and Clinical Director Gina Ballone from Brilliant Minds who were there at Cocodrie's enjoying the music and fellowship. The SOF, with the help of Cocodrie's in Navarre Beach, local businesses and organizations who have donated various wares and discounts for prizes totaling more than $6,000, provided fun for everyone who signed up for the ride or those who just stopped by for the camaraderie and good food provided by the Cocodrie's staff. Those who registered for the poker run had five hours to pull their poker hand from cards at the five stops then return to Cocodrie's to tally the hands. The winning hand was an Ace high flush, held by Robert Bendus. The largest club participant was the Sand Dollar M.C. Riders came from as far away as New York and Texas and as close as Navarre. One dedicated rider, Perry Stann, rode all the way from Wichita Falls, Texas, to participate in the Poker Run. He said he wanted to contribute to Brilliant Minds as his nephew is a patient there, and what better way to get to see him and help out a great organization. "I'll be back next year, and I'm going to bring some buddies with me when I come," said Perry. "You guys put on a great poker run." More than 500 door prizes and 40 prize packages were given away, to include $500 discount on a complete paint job, one night stay and dinner for two at the Imperial Palace, Biloxi, Miss., $300 fishing trip from Flat Out Charters in Destin, 29 Dreams gift certificate and three Hooter's gift certificates for wing parties for 10 friends, just to name a few. The SOF also raffled off a Black Widow Mini Chopper. Russ Clark had the winning ticket. The SOF team looks forward to next year's run, with hopes to double their donation to Brilliant Minds. SOF is a private organization whose purpose is to establish and maintain a spirit of camaraderie and esprit de corps that will enhance the prestige and riding experience of all motorcycle riders, encourage on-going rider education and skills development, increase public awareness, reduce motorcycle mishaps and to operate in a manner that provides equal opportunity and treatment for all motorcyclists, regardless of motorcycle make, model or engine size. For more information on SOF, visit www.hurlburt.af.mil/basewide/sentinels/. For more information on Brilliant Minds, visit www.brilliantminds.org/.