SAVE-MTR Casino Night fundraiser Sept. 4

WILLIAMS, Ariz. - Quarters burning a hole in your pocket? The glitz of Las Vegas is coming to Williams on Friday when SAVE-Meant to Rescue puts on its annual Casino Night to raise money for an animal shelter.

The fun and games begin at the Sultana Theatre at 7 p.m. and conclude at 10 p.m. There will be a happy hour prior to the gambling from 6 to 7 p.m.

The organization is close to breaking ground on an animal shelter with the recent help from the city of Williams. The city donated $10,000 to the organization and signed a $1 per year lease agreement last month. The organization has raised $150,000 plus the $10,000 from the city. They still need about $17,000 to build the shelter, said Robynn Eckel, SAVE-Meant to Rescue founder.

"We're hoping this will be the final push for the shelter," Eckel said.

Attendees can play Texas hold 'em, craps, poker, black jack, and roulette. There will be a raffle and silent auction. Event goers will receive $400 of casino money with tickets purchased at the door. For every $5 spent, gamblers will receive $100 of casino money.

Many local supporters are pitching in for the event. The Sultana Theatre is donating the building for the night. Johnny Hatcher, Britta Anderson, Mike Spellman and John Moore will be sharing their extensive dealing experience. Josh Bukowiecki, of Arizona Event Professionals, is organizing the event.

Several other local businesses have donated raffle and auction prizes. Queen Bee Quilters is providing a quilt. Ace Hardware HomeCo of Flagstaff has donated a barbecue grill. M. Lucide has donated a 50-inch smart television. Several supporters from Phoenix are supplying additional prizes such as gift cards.

Charlie Basset is the Master of Ceremonies and Kerry-Lynn Moede is providing the music.

The live auction will begin at 8:15 p.m. with gambling resuming after it is completed.

Eckel said Casino Night is always a good time and hopes it will be a good fundraiser for the dogs.

"These dogs we rescue need us all," Eckel said. "Please come help on this final push for the shelter."

Tickets for the event are $20 and will be available at the door. More information can be found by contacting Eckel at (928) 635-4726.