Jason Briggs

HALL SUMMIT, La. — The Don Bernard Memorial Poker Run and Pilots for Patients fundraiser, held February 28 at the Hall Summit Community Center and Park, brought together riders, families, and supporters from across the region for a full day of competition, fellowship, and giving — and it exceeded every expectation.

The event began early at 3 State Harley-Davidson in Bossier City, where motorcycle teams gathered for the start of the memorial Poker Run. Participants made five designated stops along the route to Hall Summit. At each stop, teams drew a playing card. The team with the best five-card hand upon arrival at the Hall Summit Community Center claimed the Poker Run title.

The ride concluded in Hall Summit, where the grounds were filled with activity. Vendors and food booths lined the park, offering a wide variety of goods and meals for attendees. In a strong show of community spirit, each vendor donated a portion of their proceeds back to Pilots for Patients, helping further the organization’s mission of providing free air transportation to individuals who must travel long distances for medical care.

Among the vendors who came out in support of the cause were Skylar’s Sweet Sips, Petersen’s Pit Stop, Red River Enterprises of Martin LLC, Lori Youngblood Dick, Bistineau Nutrition, and many more local businesses and individuals. Their willingness to not only participate but also donate a portion of their earnings reflects the deep-rooted generosity found throughout the region.

The archery tournament, organized and conducted by Youngblood Outdoors, LLC, drew several competitive teams and added another layer of outdoor sportsmanship to the event. Participants demonstrated skill and precision, and the tournament was well received by both competitors and spectators.

One of the most talked-about contests of the day was the wild hog live trap tournament. Teams were required to bring in wild hogs alive and run them across a scale to determine total weight, adding both skill and strategy to the competition while addressing a serious regional issue.

Throughout the day, raffles generated steady excitement. Prizes ranged from $1,000 Bass Pro gift cards to firearms, grills, and designer purses. Supporters purchased tickets enthusiastically, knowing the proceeds would directly benefit families facing serious medical challenges.

The Village of Hall Summit played a vital role in the event’s success by donating the use of the park and the Hall Summit Community Center for the fundraiser. By opening its facilities for this cause, the village demonstrated a continued commitment to supporting charitable efforts that extend beyond town limits. The clean, well-maintained park and welcoming community center provided an ideal setting for families, riders, and vendors to gather comfortably and safely.

Community leaders and volunteers worked behind the scenes to ensure the event ran smoothly, reflecting the pride Hall Summit takes in hosting regional events and supporting worthwhile missions.
By the end of the weekend, organizers announced the event had raised more than $20,000.00 for Pilots for Patients — surpassing initial fundraising goals and reflecting the generosity of the community. What began as a memorial event in honor of Don Bernard has grown into a powerful demonstration of what can be accomplished when people unite around a meaningful cause.

The success of this year’s fundraiser sends a clear message: Hall Summit continues to lead by example. When a worthy cause calls, this village answers.