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 "The Angel Flight Southeast (AFSE) organization consists of over 1,000 volunteer pilots who utilize their own aircraft, fuel and time to provide free air transportation for children and adults needing specialized medical treatment or humanitarian assistance. AFSE also coordinates missions to fly disaster relief personnel, victims and supplies, organ transplant candidates; people involved in clinical trials, chemotherapy; victims of abuse located in a shelter who are seeking relocation; those receiving help from Ronald McDonald Houses, Shriners Hospitals and other charities; disabled or sick children to special summer camp programs.
After the organizations founder, Mary Webb, was stricken with cancer in 1993, two of her volunteer pilots, John and George Pringle stepped in and agreed to take over the organization, with John Pringle serving as Chairman. They relocated Angel Flight to Leesburg; first housing it in their own corporate offices and then leasing from the Pringles the 2nd floor of a hangar built to house the Pringle’s aircraft located at the Leesburg Airport, where their offices are currently located.
Last year, AFSE coordinated more than 3,200 air missions within its five-state region and is one of six geographic regions that comprise the national network of Angel Flight America. For every $1 donated, the organization returns $5 in services to the communities which they serve.
AFSE is planning its Second Annual “Get Your Motors Running for Angel Flight”, Motorcycle and Road Rally Charity “Poker Run” on Saturday, April 28 which will begin in Leesburg and they have added a Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament on Friday, April 27th at the Mt. Dora Golf Association Clubhouse, which will feature a scrumptious flat-iron steak dinner. Both events are held during the City of Leesburg’s annual Bike Fest which takes place April 27-29th. The Poker Run will involve a beautiful scenic route throughout Central Florida, fun stops at popular “watering holes”, and biker attractions throughout the area. One of the highlights is the fantastic Lunch Stop sponsored by Outback Steakhouse in Leesburg.
For more information regarding sponsorship or to register for the events, call Suzanne Pelcha at (352) 326-0761 or register online at www.angelflightse.org.
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