Rome Sentinel
The Food Bank of Central New York received a check for proceeds raised from the June 15 Gretchen Wilson concert.
In addition to the $15 ticket cost for the show, American Racing and Entertainment Chairman Jeff Gural donated an additional $10 per ticket, bringing the total donated amount to $67,920 for the Food Bank.
Vernon Downs also presented a $50,000 check to the American Red Cross for central New York flood victims raised from special $5 buffets held Aug. 12-18. Gural also donated to the cause.
“During these difficult times, I recognize that many people in our area continue to struggle and I thought this was the best way for myself and our company to give back to our community and express our thanks for the support we have received over the years,” Gural said.
“Community support is essential to the success of Food Bank. We are so thrilled that Vernon Downs and Mr. Gural continue to support our mission to provide healthy nutritious food to individuals and families in need,” said Food Bank Executive Director Kathleen Stress. “Each dollar donated provides 2.3 meals into our service area so we are thankful for the generosity of Vernon Downs.”
Vernon Downs also presented a $50,000 check to the American Red Cross for central New York flood victims raised from special $5 buffets held August 12-18, with additional funds donated personally by Gural.
“We are delighted that Mr. Gural and the patrons of Vernon Downs Casino Hotel have once again helped their neighbors by making a generous donation to the American Red Cross,” said Rosie Taravella, CEO of the American Red Cross Central New York Region. “The late June floods damaged or destroyed more than 2,000 homes in Madison, Oneida and Herkimer counties, and this donation will go toward our efforts to aid the long-term recovery of the impacted residents.”