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PALS presents Casino Royale

by

2013

In the name of fundraising, all bets are on — especially each year at Casino Royale, the annual Library in the Forest Children’s Department fundraiser sponsored by PALS, a group of parents that support the department through fundraising and volunteering.

And why not? When the price of admission earns guests an evening filled with hors d’oeuvres and spirits, not to mention a thousand dollars in play money and a wide array of Vegas-style tables to spend it on, what’s to lose? 

The event itself has proven to be a clear winner, last year generating more than $18,000. 

According to PALS treasurer Mindy Reed, $15,434 of that was allocated back to the Children’s Department to support programming and materials with over $2,000 spent to bring two well-known authors to the library — Willy Claflin and Eric Litwin, author of the Pete the Cat series. PALS also supports the library’s summer reading program, which they provided $13,434 in 2014.

“PALS also paid for new toys in the preschool play area and updated games and activities in the school-age game area,” said Children’s Department Head April Moon.

The work of the Children’s Department is an area many Vestavia families are only too happy to support.

“The mission of PALS is important to me because I strive to inspire a love for reading in my own children,” said Kim Blackenburg, 2015 Casino Royale co-chair. “The children’s department here provides an environment where they can learn, sing, play and explore the world of knowledge and imagination found only in books. PALS provides the means with which the library can expand their existing programs and create new ones. It is rewarding to be a part of something that has such a positive impact on my family.”

Casino Royale committee chair Virginia Hornbuckle concurred.

“The children’s department of the library is phenomenal, and their programs involve children and their families, encouraging them to enjoy the library and love reading,” she said. “Supporting the library while having a great time with fellow community members and friends is [a great] reason to attend.”

Hornbuckle and fellow committee members are preparing for a larger crowd this year with additional casino tables, another bar service location and a larger serving staff. PALS marketing chair June Clark said The Ridge Eat & Drink  will cater mainstream fare, including pork sliders, chicken and vegetable kabobs, and desserts. Beverages will be available courtesy of International Wines & Craft Beer.

Clark said the committee is also planning swag bags for guests and has arranged to handle auction item checkout throughout the evening, thus avoiding long lines at the end of the party. Those with play cash in hand at the evening’s end will also have the chance to turn in the play money for prize drawings. 

For the fourth consecutive year, Goodfellas Gaming will provide the gaming tables, including blackjack, poker, roulette and craps, operated by professional dealers. Local guitarist and singer Rockstar will provide musical accompaniment. 

“There’s a little something for everyone,” Clark said. “It’s the one fundraiser my husband can’t wait to attend every year.”

2015 Casino Royale, sponsored by PALS

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