WHITMIRE — Calling all those who like to lend a helping hand: On July 22, a benefit Poker Run is being held for the family of Nick and Briana Gilliam, whose house and belongings were destroyed by a house fire.

The first bike will leave out at 1:30 p.m. and the last bike will be in at 5:30 p.m. The run will start at VFW in Laurens, then proceed to the second stop at Sons of the South MC in Cross Hill, continue on to Rumors at Greenwood Lake and then conclude at Sundown Riders MC-Hodges.

“Poker runs get lots of people together to have fun but it’s a very beneficial kind of run to help a family in need. It just gives everybody a chance to meet and greet, have fun and ride cars or motorcycles,” said Cheri Braswell, coordinator of the poker run.

This is the second poker run that Braswell has coordinated.

A poker run is a five card stud run, meaning riders will draw five playing cards and whoever has the best hand or worst hand at the conclusion will win a prize. Two cards will be drawn at a stop of the participant’s choice.

Braswell said prizes have been donated by local businesses.

“We’ve put it out on Facebook with different riders and people from different clubs sharing it. People can call or text me at 864-981-1106 if they are interested in getting involved or message me on Facebook if they would like,” said Braswell.

The event will include the Mattie Phifer Band from Whitmire and a silent auction. Hot dog plates will be available for $7 that includes a hot dog, chips and a drink.

“I think the kids are going to be very excited to see all of these bikes. If you’ve never seen one, it’s an experience to watch a community come together and help out a family,” said Braswell.

At each location, riders will also taking water breaks to help beat the South Carolina heat.

Braswell said that participants must show up at VFW at 1:30 p.m. and pay for their hand. It is $20 a hand and the second hand is $10.

“We really just want to thank everybody for coming together and helping us out. I don’t think I could put into words how much it means to us, but it’s just astonishing to me the help that we’ve gotten so far,” said Briana Gilliam on the support that her family has received.

A poker run will be held July 22 to benefit Briana Gilliam, left, and her children Maddox, Brystol and Asa. The Gilliams’ home was destroyed by fire. The run is being organized by Cheri Braswell.
https://www.newberryobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_Poker-Run-1.jpgA poker run will be held July 22 to benefit Briana Gilliam, left, and her children Maddox, Brystol and Asa. The Gilliams’ home was destroyed by fire. The run is being organized by Cheri Braswell. Kelly Duncan | The Newberry Observer

By Kelly Duncan

kduncan@s24514.p831.sites.pressdns.com

Reach Kelly Duncan at 803-768-3123 ext. 1868 or on Twitter @TheNBOnews.