Tuesday, June 24, 2014 • Vol. 16--No. 340 • 17 of 42

First-Annual Prime Time Gala Raises $115,831 to Feeding South Dakota

•  The South Dakota Cattlemen's Foundation (SDCF) presented a check for $115,831 to Feeding South Dakota at the first-annual Prime Time Gala held June 14 in Sioux Falls. SDCF hosted the inaugural event with two goals in mind: to raise money for Feeding South Dakota and to build awareness of Feeding South Dakota's shortage of protein for hungry individuals.
•  "The turnout and financial support speaks volumes about the character of South Dakotans and their willingness to help those in need," Ryan Eichler, SDCF President said. "We would also like to thank all of the sponsors of the event. Their kindness not only allowed us to put on a first class event, but also brings awareness to the importance of

From left: Todd Wilkinson, SDCF board member, Kerri DeGraff, Development Director for Feeding South Dakota; Matt Gassen, Executive Director, Feeding South Dakota; and Ryan Eichler (a GHS graduate), SDCF President.

sustainable food production and how it relates to one of South Dakota's biggest issues; hunger."
• Feeding South Dakota provides emergency food assistance to thousands of people in any given week and hundreds of men, women and children every day. However, of the approximately 12.5 million pounds of food distributed by Feeding South Dakota to individuals and families in 2013, only 4 percent was meat. Therefore, securing protein for distribution is a critical need of Feeding South Dakota.
• "We are humbled and overwhelmed by the response to the event," Matt Gassen, Executive Director, Feeding South Dakota said. "The money raised will make a significant difference in providing critical protein to hungry individuals in need across South Dakota. We are so grateful for the opportunity to work with such a passionate group of individuals at the Cattlemen's Foundation."
• The night was highlighted by two separate events at the Sioux Falls Convention Center--an upscale beef banquet dinner and a concert featuring multi-platinum

(Continued on page 18)

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