Photos
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Co-chairs, Kerry Flood and Maggie Reilly with Principal, Tom Berrios. Credits: Kimberly A. Bolognini
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"We had 52 baskets donated from families, local businesses and some national corporations," Reilly said. Credits: Kimberly A. Bolognini
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Casino night attendees crowded around the craps table in hopes to win chips which could be cashed in for tricky tray tickets. Credits: Kimberly A. Bolognini
Our Lady of Peace Annual Casino Night Helps Raise Money for School
Sunday, October 28, 2012 • 8:02am
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ - The Academy of Our Lady of Peace and Parish hosted a Casino Night on Saturday to raise money for the school’s expenses that aren’t covered by tuition.
The event, where more than 200 people were in attendance, was held in the gymnasium of the K-8 school where roulette, craps and Black Jack tables were available. Patrons had to be 21 years of age.
Event co-chair Maggie Reilly said parents and friends, alumni, parishioners and teachers were in attendance.
“Tonight acts as a school fundraiser, but also a social event as well,” Reilly said. “We had 52 baskets donated from families, local businesses and some national corporations.”
Reilly said that besides the gaming dealers, the night consisted of many volunteers from people who solicited the event to those who decorated the gym in a casino-like theme.
According to Reilly, admissions were $40 dollars per person and $70 dollars per couple and attendees were given $100 dollars of play money which they could then use to play the casino games. After winning, players could take their winning chips and cash them in for tickets which were used to win tricky tray baskets.
Principal Tom Berrios said the night allows for a bonding experience with the community.
“Casino night brings our families together. Our school is totally supported by parents,” Berrios said. “We have community bonding while raising money for the school.”
Berrios explained that all money raised goes towards school expenses such as books, computers and additional classroom supplies.
The principal added that his favorite part of the night is being able to let loose and mingle with those in attendance.
“Tonight breaks routine. It’s about relaxing and having fun and is just about getting to know each other as people and not our job titles,” Berrios said.
Along with the casino games and tricky tray, Reilly explained that there was also a 50/50 raffle and a “Winner’s Circle” which gave casino night-goers the opportunity to donate money to specific needs that the school has. Each need was described on a hanging mobile near the entrance of the event.
“The purpose of the ‘Winner’s Circle’ is for those who want to make an extra donation. It’s a specific targeted fundraiser,” Reilly said.
