Country Fun At Donkey Jamboree

By BOBBIE GREEN

The Progress

Hundreds of people came to the Donkey Jamboree on Saturday, March 4 at the Eureka Resort parking lot in Mesquite. The sun made several appearances from behind the clouds throughout the day to the crowd’s enjoyment.

This was the ninth Annual Donkey Jamboree to be held by Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue in Scenic Arizona. The Founders of the National Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue Mark and Amy Meyers, from Texas were present at the event to visit with attendees. Meyers said this was the largest turnout in Mesquite by far.

On site were three cute and friendly rescue donkeys. Members of the community stopped by the pen to visit throughout the event.

Peaceful Valley even had a “mini-Kissing booth” set up within the pen. Some people, like Donna Lehotsky, took advantage of the opportunity. The donkeys were happy to comply, if the kissers held a treat.
“The Jamboree is amazing!” Lehotsky said. “It is fun to be here. It is fun to watch the children interact with the donkeys.”

Eureka Resort was selling hamburgers and beverages to attendees. Lively music was being provided by “Outlaw” Rick Wall. Cowgirl dressed showgirls were selling raffle tickets. Representatives from Pleasant Valley Rescue and Donkey Dreams Sanctuary were selling t-shirts and donkey trinkets. They were also informing new attendees all about the missions of the donkey rescue and the donkey sanctuary.

Eureka had set up many tables and chairs. Attendees were able to linger over their food, enjoy the music and the peek-a-boo sunshine.

Elaine, Rhett and Zane Durfee were doing just that. “This is our first year to attend,” said Zane, “but we will come back next year.”

Raymond Robbins, curator of the Donkey History Museum in Mesquite was pleased with the attendance. “We had a great crowd with many new people and good feedback,” Robbins said. “The Jamboree will be even better next year.”

The happy winner of the 50/50 raffle was Pat Campbell who received $252.
“We thank our supporters Eureka Resorts, Donkey Dreams, Rick Wall and the Mesquite Showgirls,” Robbins said. “They all helped to make our event successful. Also, my co-worker Laurie Ellis was the main organizer for this wonderful event.”

Should you wish to become a friend or part of the family by sponsoring a donkey or making a donation go to www.DonkeyDreams.org. Or call 928-235-5978.

The Donkey History Museum is located at 355 W. Mesquite Blvd, (Brickyard Plaza) Tuesday -Sunday. Week-ends 9AM-PM Week-days 10AM-4PM. 702-346-2538. It is operated by Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue located in Scenic Arizona.
“We are very sociable and always looking for new friends or sponsors,” said Mr. Donkey to The Progress.

The Peaceful Valley Donkey History Museum is located at 355 W. Mesquite Blvd, (Brickyard Plaza) Tuesday -Sunday. Week-ends 9AM-PM Week-days 10AM-4PM. 702-346-2538