Chapman fan wins free rent payments through 2009

Edgar Delgado Flores wasn't going to let anything keep him from getting to the Chapman Dodge dealership at East Sahara Avenue and Mojave Street on June 6.

Determined to make it to the dealership and with his broke-down car in the shop, he took a bus to hear the name of the home/rent-payments drawing winner called.

His determination paid off when it was his own name that Chapman Dodge General Manager Don Hamrick announced through a megaphone to about 100 people in the crowd. Much to Flores' relief, the Las Vegas Chapman Dodge dealership will pay for the Flores family's rent for the rest of the year. The drawing was created to welcome the community to the new Chapman Dodge location at 3175 E. Sahara Ave.

For Flores, who was recently laid off from his job in framing construction, the prize has lifted a great burden from his shoulders. Flores has lived in Las Vegas for about six years with his wife and son.

"When I heard my name called at the drawing on Saturday I couldn't believe it," said Flores. "Not having to worry about paying rent for the rest of the year is a huge relief to me and my family. We thank Chapman Dodge for this generous gift."

A large check was presented to Flores to sign after the drawing. Additional prizes were awarded at the drawing on Saturday, including grocery and gas gift cards, free oil changes, leather jackets and T-shirts.

Radio stations KXPT 97.1 "The Point" and KWID 101.9 "La Preciosa" broadcasted on-site and gave away tickets to the Las Vegas Speedway, Fleetwood Mac's upcoming Las Vegas concert and T-shirts. Free food and drinks were also on hand for the anxious crowd waiting to hear the lucky name drawn.

"We had a great time at the dealership with everyone who came to hear the winner announced and we are happy to see a family as deserving as the Floreses take home this prize," said Hamrick. "We know that there are many people in this community struggling to make ends meet during these trying times and we are glad to be able to support one of those families in need."

Chapman Dodge sells and services new and used vehicles and is located at 3175 E. Sahara Ave. Chapman Dodge can be reached at 1-800-NewDodge and www.lasvegasdodge.com.

In addition to Chapman Dodge, Chapman Chrysler Jeep sells and services the complete line of Chrysler and Jeep vehicles. Located in the Valley Automall, Chapman Chrysler Jeep can be reached at 888-207-1687 or online at www.chapman chryslerjeep.com.