Elk Grove Mayoral Charity Casino Night Huge Success

What did you get when you combine a well organized casino night, celebrity dealers and the spirit of generosity of the people of Elk Grove? Well if last night's Mayoral Charity Casino Night was any indication, a huge shot in the arm for the Elk Grove Food Bank.

Organized by the Elk Grove Community Connection, the inaugural Mayoral Charity Casino Night drew over a hundred participants, dozens of sponsors and celebrity dealers to the Strikes Bowling Center all to raise moeny for the Elk Grove Food bank.

Speaking to the high-spirited audience, Elk Grove Mayor Steve Detrick thanked all the particpants, dealers, Elk Grove Community Connection and Strikes Bowling for launching the event.

"This is what our community is about," Detrick said. "Helping people who are less fortunate than us. It is awesome."

Also speaking was Vice Mayor Jim Cooper who noted the added importance the Elk Grove Food Bank has during the current economic downturn, particularly for families with young children. "Thank you, thank you, thank you," Cooper told the audience.

The event was also aided by generous raffle gifts donated by dozens of local businesses and the donation of the "casino" room by Strikes owner Jim Falls.

Although a final tally has not been made, organizers expect that over $11,000 was raised for the food bank.

"Pit Boss" Kathy Lee and Elk Grove Mayor Steve Detrick

Former Boxing Champ and Celebrity Dealer Tony "The Tiger" Lopez

  More photos below

Elk Grove Council Member Gary Davis and CCSd Boadr Member Michelle Orreck