SOUTHWICK-A Casino Night is the latest unique fundraiser planned by members of Southwick Grange #46.
Throughout the year, Grange members conduct a variety of events and fundraisers to raise awareness of its mission – encouraging families to band together to promote the economic and political well-being of the community and agriculture.
“This is our first attempt at Casino Night, but we’d like to make it an annual event,” said Bev LaBombard who serves as Grange secretary. “We are trying different events to boost awareness that the Grange is here and we hope that people would become members.”
A Casino Night is planned March 30 at the Southwick Grange – a new fundraiser for the organization. (Submitted photo)
The Southwick Grange was organized in 1874 and reorganized in 1921, according to LaBombard. The annual Grange dues is $30.
LaBombard is working behind the scenes with co-chairs Lynne Bridges and Tammy Ciak-Bissaillon on the event which is slated March 30 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Grange, 580 College Highway.
“The Grange was always near and dear to my grandmother’s heart,” said LaBombard, who joined the organization in 2009. Her husband, David LaBombard, Jr., serves as Grange Master. “We have several sets of families currently involved in Grange activities and welcome new members anytime.”
Tickets for Casino Night are $20 per person and includes entry for a door prize, deli sandwich platter options and snacks, chips for the game tables, and 10 Chinese Raffle tickets.
“Bring a donation for the Polverari/Southwick Animal Control Facility and receive five bonus tickets for the Chinese Raffle,” said LaBombard, noting that suggested donation items include non-clumping cat litter, paper towels, and unopened dog and cat food.
Grange and committee members will be running the game tables which will include Roulette, Poker, Black Jack, Texas Hold’em, Let It Ride and a number wheel.
“If we get more people we’ll add more games,” said LaBombard.
LaBombard noted there is “no minimum bet, no denomination for chips,” only a 1:1 ratio of chips equaling raffle tickets.
“The event is fun play and then cash in the chips for tickets for the Chinese Raffle,” she said, adding that extra tickets for the raffle will be available. The extra ticket prices include $1 for one ticket, $3 for five tickets, or $10 for 15 tickets.
While raffle prizes are still being welcomed, at press time, a variety of gift certificates have already been received from Congamond Pizza, Blossoming Acres, The Launch, Big Y, Grist Mill Cafe, Subway, Village Pizza, Mrs. Murphy’s, Roma Pizza and the Nail Studio.
“Some themed baskets that have been put together so far include ‘movie night,’ ‘gardening,’ and ‘coffee,’ with more coming in,” said LaBombard.
The Grange setting also provides a smoke-free and alcohol-free environment.
For tickets or more information, message Southwick Grange #46 on Facebook or send an email to [email protected] with your contact information.
“Tickets will also be sold at the door up to building capacity of 90 people, excluding workers,” said LaBombard. “Our goal is to get 90 people in the door.”
LaBombard noted that events like Casino Night bring exposure to Southwick Grange and can be a “win” for membership. A table will also be set up at the event showcasing the Grange’s history and ways members give back to the community.
“We support everything local as often as we can,” said LaBombard. “Proceeds from Casino Night will help the animal shelter, as well as be used for our annual Dollars for Scholars donation, as well as future events we will host and some needed repairs and updates to our building.”
As the Southwick Grange works in conjunction with the Massachusetts Grange, the 21st century focus remains on strengthening local communities by promoting local agriculture and agricultural education. Also, members note that friendships through the Grange can last a lifetime, as well as opportunities for community involvement and leadership development – all important reasons for being involved in the organization.
