Nov. 27, 2001 – The wagering wonderland that was an annual institution on St. Thomas long before casinos came to St. Croix gets its 32nd go-round Saturday, in the grand ballroom at the Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort.
"Las Vegas Night" was created as a vehicle to raise funds for the V.I. Montessori School, and over the years it has proven to be hugely successful. While attendees get to take their chances at their choice of blackjack, roulette, craps and bingo — along with live and silent auctions and a raffle — it's not gambling in the strictest sense, because no one gets to cash their chips in for cold currency.
Instead, the winnings must be expended as bids on auction items, all of which have been donated. It's a use-it-or-lose-it proposition, which makes for animated bidding. Topping the high-ticket items on the block this year is a new Chevy Cavalier donated by Caribbean Auto Mart that carries a price tag of $15,155 and an opening bid of $11,000. The raffle is a cut above costume jewelry, too; the grand prize is $10,000 cash.
And in addition to all its high-finance appeal, "Las Vegas Night" is first and foremost a place to see and be seen, timed this year to encourage "holiday glitter and glamour," as a press release put it.
The event gets under way at 7 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. In addition to the gaming and auction activities, it will feature a buffet and a wine bar hosted by Randy's Bistro. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. They're being sold at East End Secretarial Services, Glenn's Gifts and Bags, Phil's Paradise, Sanrio, Sunflower Clothing and The Veggie Table. Raffle tickets are being sold now, too, although they'll also be available at the event. They are $5 apiece and can be purchased at the same outlets. Both kinds of tickets also are being sold by Montessori parents, teachers and staff.
For further information, call the school at 775-6360.
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