Nov. 28, 2005 — Get ready to enjoy the annual, fun-filled evening reminiscent of Las Vegas complete with gaming, live music, and prize-filled auctions as Virgin Islands Montessori School (VIMS) presents its 36th Annual Las Vegas Night from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Dec. 3 at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Resort.
This popular gala, which is a yearly tradition for many, is a fundraiser for VIMS, which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. The affair also offers guests a rare opportunity to gamble on St. Thomas, bringing locals and visitors together to enjoy a truly memorable casino experience.
"What we try to capture is the look and feel of Las Vegas right here in the Virgin Islands," said Shournagh Mc Weeney, VIMS Administrator, in a release from the school. "We are proud of our proven track record of delivering a great night of entertainment and gaming for all who have attended in past years. But the most important aspect of the event is that all of the proceeds go towards supporting our wonderful students."
Attendees will enjoy a number of classic casino favorites such as Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Bingo and Texas Hold 'em Poker. Although winnings cannot be redeemed for cash, they may be used to bid on spectacular live and silent auction items throughout the evening.
Each year, local businesses and individuals donate fantastic gift items that add to the bidding excitement. Offerings on tap for this year's live auction include, a two-night stay at Caneel Bay including dinner for two, a beautiful Rolex watch from A.H. Riise, and as a special treat, Virgin Islands-based, Springline Architects, has donated a residential architectural plan package. The 2,000 square foot bungalow residence is a two-story, two-bedroom home designed in traditional West Indian style utilizing concrete floors and masonry walls. Silent auction gifts are also impressive, offering guests the opportunity to bid on such prizes as a three-night stay at Virgin Gorda Condos, an Amethyst and Citrine Necklace from Magnum Jewelers, a genuine, opera length, cultured pearl necklace from The House of Rajah and original artwork by Camille Pissarro.
The evening will also feature live music, hors d'oeuvres and dessert. Raffle tickets are currently on sale for $5 each and can be purchased at ticket outlets. Winners will be drawn on the night of the event offering ticket holders a chance to win up to $14,500 in cash prizes.
"We've pulled out all of the stops to make this year memorable," Celestina Carey, Las Vegas Night co-chairwoman, said. "We are focusing on keeping the quality of the night high, and trying to stay true to the theme of providing patrons with as realistic a casino experience as possible."
Admission is $50 in advance and $60 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the following outlets in St. Thomas: East End Secretarial Services, Kokopelli Café, Sanrio, Amalia Café, Silk Greenery, Glen's Gifts and Bags, Phil's Paradise, The Veggie Table and The Comfort Zone. St. John residents can purchase tickets at Into the Blue.
"Attendees can look forward to a tasteful and elegant evening whether they are up for gambling or not," adds Pam Parr, Las Vegas Night Co-Chair. "What better way to spend an evening than to dress up, have fun and support our children all at the same time."
For additional information and tickets call the school at (340) 775-6360.
