A Little Texas Hold 'Em Anyone? Casino Night To Benefit School For Autistic Children

Looking for something fun to do Saturday night? Then check out Casino Night at the Montclair Art Museum, an event designed to help support EPIC, a non-profit school in Paramus dedicated to educating autistic children.

"EPIC is a wonderful school helping this very special group of children who are afflicted with autism—a growing epidemic with New Jersey having the highest rate in the country," said Donna Puzella, whose nephew attends EPIC.

Puzella said that all money raised on Casino Night will help pay for costs at EPIC that are not covered by public funding, adding that the school requires year-round fundraising to maintain the educational excellence required for individuals with autism.

"We all understand the difficulties people are going through during this economic time, however, I believe in my heart we can overcome these issues and problems, while children with autism and their families will experience a life time of challenges," she said. "Autism cannot be cured, but through donations, EPIC can continue to help these children and educate them so that they can reach their potential.

"Children with autism deserve to enjoy and live fully just like all other children," she said.  

According to current estimates, autism occurs in one out of every 166 births, with research suggesting autism is a genetic disorder. Autism is usually diagnosed during the first three years of life and is four to five times  more prevalent in boys than in girls. It knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries.

The casino event is open to anyone who would like to attend a fun-filled "high rollers" night.

In addition to all sorts of games, there will be an auction which includes, among other items, a private tour of the White House West Wing, big screen plasma TVs, vacations, and passes to NYC's Fashion Week.

What: A fundraiser benefiting EPIC, a non-profit school for children with autism

When: December 4 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Where: Montclair Art Museum, 3 South Mountain Avenue

Tickets: At $100 per person, tickets can be purchased by calling 201-576-0600.

What's planned: During the event, cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and dessert will be served to guests with catering by Bridge Creek Caterers from New Paltz, New York. Pre-recorded music will be played during the event foor ambience. Throughout the evening, guests will be able to "gamble" at Black Jack, Roulette, Craps, and a Texas Hold 'Em Tournament using "play money" with prizes awarded at the end of the night.

If you can't attend: You can still make a donation to EPIC, 238 Farview Avenue, Paramus, New Jersey, 07652-3244. Phone: 201-576-0600. Email: epic@epicschool.org