Local Association of the United States Army (AUSA) held a casino night and Texas Hold ‘Em tournament Friday, Feb. 5. While tournament entry fees were set at $25 per player, all proceeds from the event were to be earmarked for the use of the soldiers of the 2-2 Stryker Brigade housed at local Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Playing the part of host for the event the Lucky Eagle Casino spared no expense as they donated not only a vast event space, but also food, prizes, and covered the cost of payroll for no less than 20 of their employees to work the event. Prizes donated from the casino ranged from branded bags, coffee cups, and a Classic Collection his and hers' watch set from Geneva.

Also making the night possible were sponsors - Veterans United Home Loans, and the Veterans Financial Network. Primarily because of these sponsors' support the AUSA was able to generate over $2,000 to go towards the 2-2 Stryker Brigade.

Funds collected through the event are expected to be spent on personal emergencies soldiers may face, as well as morale-boosting events planned by the unit's command staff, according to Amy Tiemeyer, president of the Captain Meriwether-Lewis Chapter

While Mrs. Tiemeyer has long since reported that it is her, and the chapters', intent to grow support for our military as well as to get the local communities more involved; the message the AUSA received Friday was not one they, nor the Lucky Eagle, expected.