The annual Bunco or Bust promotion to benefit Breast Cancer Research drew near-capacity participation while raising more than $8,000 for the cause recently at the CasaBlanca Resort Casino.

Created and presented by Black Gaming, the event attracted more than 200 participants from several states.

“We were delighted with the results and the heartwarming response to help find an answer to breast cancer,” said Michelle Yegge, who teamed with Black Gaming sales executive Bernadette Anthony to organize and present the event.

“We had one man in the casino who donated $3,000 right on the spot after hearing about the event.”

Gail Allen, the president of the Breast Cancer Coalition of Nevada and herself a survivor of breast cancer, attended the event while also bringing sponsorships from several clients.

“Overall it was a lot of fun and for a wonderful cause,” said Allen. “I didn’t even know what Bunco was before the event. I sat with the mayor of Mesquite along with Miss Senior Nevada. The auction was a huge success, too.

“Bunco is easy to learn, lots of fun and easy to get hooked on. I was happy to be there because I’m behind any organization that raises money to go to research because that it is the only way we are going to eradicate the disease.”

Another Bunco or Bust event is scheduled Saturday, Jan. 23.