Steel drums, straw hats
CSI panelists take
Jewish, Catholic, Muslim and scientific approaches to contentious
subject
Staten Island Advance - April 10, 2005
In less than one hour, the Center Court in the
Staten Island Mall was transformed into a Caribbean paradise.
“It was a challenge getting things ready,” noted Donna Lindsey,
event coordinator
for the College of Staten Island (CSI) Foundation, which held its
annual fund-raiser last Sunday. “The mall closed at 6 p.m. and our
volunteers and staff had to have everything ready for the arrival of
guests at 6:45. Somehow, we did it.”
The crew rolled out close to a dozen casino tables, covered the area
in artificial hibiscus flowers and whipped out some Caribbean straw
hats in record time. Some tropical-themed tiki huts also served to
set the scene.
Foundation supporters wore Hawaiian shirts and other tropical
apparel and were greeted by the sounds of a steel-drum band. The
American Grill in West Brighton put together a cold seafood buffet
and served up decadent dishes of fresh pasta prepared on the spot by
a short-order chef.
Tumbling Dice, a casino party planning group located in New Jersey,
supplied the card tables and dealers. Texas Hold ‘Em, the latest
poker craze to sweep the nation, was included in this year’s round
of games.
“It has become more and more popular,” Ms. Lindsey said. “It’s a big
hit and I think people really enjoyed it.”
Valerie Luongo, first place winner in the evening’s round of Hold
‘Em, was awarded one of the event’s most coveted prizes: A
three-hour blackjack or poker tournament in her home.
“She beat out all of the competition,” Ms. Lindsey said. “I was
impressed.”
Other lucky winners walked away with an all-expenses paid trip for
two to the Caribbean, an impressive set of golf clubs and a digital
camera complete with photo printer.
“We raised about $25,000 in total,” Ms. Lindsey concluded,
explaining that the proceeds will benefit scholarships and student
research opportunities. “It’s really fulfilling when you realize how
many people that will assist.”
By Jessica Jones
Reprinted here with permission from the
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