"The Nisqually tribe donated more than $450,000 to nonprofit groups and governments in Thurston County, it was announced Friday [April 25].

The donations are part of the tribe's annual giving program...

The Nisqually Contributions Committee determines how the contributions will be distributed. The committee consists of tribal council and other tribal representatives, as well as representatives from Yelm and Thurston County.

As mandated by the state compact, the tribe makes an annual nonprofit donation that represents a 2 percent contribution of the tribe's net income from Class III gaming operations at the Red Wind Casino.

The tribe also contributes 1 percent to local agencies that provide support to the casino and its visitors, such as increased traffic and the need for police and fire services.

[Yelm received the following]

Charitable donations
•Yelm Adult Community Center: $15,429.74
•Yelm Community Services: $12,000

Governments
•Yelm Police Department: $20,000

From The Olympian of April 26.