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YAVAPAI GAMING AGENCY HELPS YAVAPAI FOOD BANK REACH GOAL

AT ìSECOND ANNUAL TASTE OF PRESCOTTî FUNDRAISER

 

PRESCOTT, Ariz. (September 18, 2002) -- Hosting the Second Annual "Taste of Prescott" on Saturday, Sept. 14, the Yavapai Gaming Agency, a corporation of the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe, helped the Yavapai Food Bank reach its goal of raising at least $15,000 in cash and food items. Thanks in part to a surprise $5,000 check, presented by tribal President Ernie Jones, Sr., on behalf of the Yavapai Gaming Agency, the organization raised a record-breaking amount of more than $11,000 in cash plus 5,860 pounds of food donations.

The food and wine tasting event, held under the big tent at Yavapai Casino, raised a total of $6,053.35 in cash and collected 5,860 pounds of food donations. The donations will help the Yavapai Food Bank address its critical need this year, as its donation levels (as is the case for many charities) declined dramatically after the 2001 September 11th terrorist attacks.

"We are delighted that we could help the Yavapai Food Bank reach its goal," commented Jones. "The organization helps many families in the area and itís a pleasure for us to lend a helping hand."

Along with organizing the "Taste of Prescott," Bucky's and Yavapai Casinos designed special promotions to encourage customers to give to the cause. Through the month of August, casino patrons donated non-perishable food items to the casinos in exchange for an entry form and the chance to win cash and prize giveaways. The program was so successful that casino officials decided to extend the promotion through the month of September. All donated food items and proceeds benefit the Yavapai Food Bank.

The Yavapai Food Bank is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization entirely supported through private donations. The organization distributes food to more than 40 agencies, which combined feed approximately 8,000 individuals each week.

Donations to the Yavapai Food Bank were made possible through the Yavapai Gaming Agency, a corporation of the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe, which operates the Yavapai Casino and Buckyís Casino.