SOUTHWICK-Authentic “high-end” handbags will be the center of attention as volunteers with the Southwick Dollars for Scholars program hosts a Designer Pocketbook Bingo Night on Jan. 23.
“We are slowly rebuilding the Southwick Dollars for Scholars program,” said Lisa Hough, president, noting that a year ago volunteers were close to dismantling the organization. “They needed a president and volunteers and I signed on to help rebuild the program.”
Hough said volunteers who remained with the organization include Lori Doyle, treasurer, and Jim Putnam, a longtime board member.
“Both Lori Doyle and Jim Putnam are wonderful assets to the program,” said Hough, adding that an additional eight volunteers have stepped up to help since she became president.
Area residents will have a chance to win a variety of authentic handbags during the Southwick Dollars for Scholars bingo night on Jan. 23. (Submitted photo)
Hough said that one way area residents can assist the organization is to attend the bingo night.
“We are rebuilding this program and the best way to help support our efforts is to come to this bingo night since 100% of money raised goes to student scholarships.”
Tickets are $30 per person until Dec. 31 when the price increases to $35 on Jan. 1. The event is slated at the Shaker Farms Country Club, 866 Shaker Road, Westfield, with doors opening at 6 p.m. A snow date of Jan. 30 has been set.
“We want people to pre-register for the event,” said Hough, noting she needs to know how many people are attending to ensure there are ample appetizers and seating capacity.
“We can seat 300 people,” said Hough, noting that tables of eight can be reserved.
Hough said that several sizes and styles of handbags will be prizes, ranging from authentic brands of Kate Spade, Coach and Michael Kors to Dooney & Bourke.
“Every designer bag has a value around $300 to $400,” she said.
The ticket price includes a booklet of bingo cards, a chance at door prizes, and finger food appetizers.
“Flatbreads as well as beer and wine can be purchased,” she said.
Door prizes will range from bottles of wine and gift certificates to a signed photo from the Boston Red Sox.
“Between our high-end bags and door prizes, we will have approximately one prize for every eight to 10 people,” said Hough, noting the goal is to sell out.
“If a table of eight is reserved, then the cost is $25 a person and everyone in that party is guaranteed to sit together,” she said.
Local businesses that have forms available to make a reservation include The Daily Grind, 568 College Highway; Consignment Castle, 208 College Highway; Salon Serenity, 21 Depot St., and Blossoming Acres, 249 College Highway. Checks should be made payable to Southwick Dollars for Scholars and mailed to Southwick Dollars for Scholars/Bingo Tickets, P.O. Box 838, Southwick, MA 01077.
Area residents can also contact Hough to make reservations by sending an email to [email protected] or send a text to her at 860-707-9766.
“I personally feel when you do an event like this, I want to have as many prizes as possible for people to win,” said Hough.
