Washington, DC Area Socialites Betting on 3rd Annual Viva Las Vegas Fundraiser

On Saturday, November 13, 2004, the Joy of Sports Foundation will transform the Almas Temple at 1315 K Street NW in downtown Washington, DC into a high-rolling, big stakes casino for its 3rd Annual Viva Las Vegas event. From 8pm to 2am, the noteworthy affair will simulate a variety of activities and merriment including casino gaming, auctioning and entertainment.

(PRWEB) November 10, 2004 -- On Saturday, November 13, 2004, the Joy of Sports Foundation will transform the Almas Temple at 1315 K Street NW in downtown Washington, DC into a high-rolling, big stakes casino for its 3rd Annual Viva Las Vegas event. From 8 pm to 2 am, the noteworthy affair will simulate a variety of activities and merriment including casino gaming, auctioning and entertainment.

Attendees partaking in the elaborate affair will have wide-ranging opportunities to see if the odds are in their favor. The night kicks off with an appealing silent auction featuring services and items from the most sought-after venues and companies. Highest bidders will take home valuable items such as Amtrak tickets, restaurant certificates, IS training classes, spa packages, sports memorabilia, airline tickets, vacation get-aways and more. Stan Verret, ESPNs distinguished sports anchor, will be the events master of ceremonies and fashion aficionado Paul Wharton of MTVs hit series Made," will take things up a notch with a lively date auction featuring noted local professionals. The bets dont stop there; big spenders can make their way to the full casino hall and bet a bundle at blackjack, roulette, stud poker and the money wheel.

Amid the vibrant betting, guests can enjoy the soulful jazz sounds of acclaimed artist Jerome Austrie and his instrumental trio and dance the night away to hit tunes spun by one the areas hottest deejays. Throughout the evening, there will be opportunities to win many valuable prizes such as a spectacular Las Vegas vacation, a $250 AMEX gift certificate and DC hotel accommodations. And if that's not enough, fabulous food fare and a cash bar will be available all night long to make the opulent event complete. Additional special guest appearances are expected by famed athletes and political icons, along with business and community leaders.

The event is being hosted in an effort to raise funds for Joy of Sports Foundation's (JSF) programming initiatives and to create a greater community awareness of the organization. JSF is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire at-risk children to grow healthy in body, mind and spirit by teaching them critical life success skills through sports and education. More than 25,000 children have already benefited from our uniquely effective tennis, soccer, and physical play programs. Due to the growing popularity of the event, JSF expects to exceed last years $60,000 fundraising mark. In 2003, more than 400 guests were in attendance; this year's attendance goal is expected to exceed 500. Sponsors include USC/Schieffelin & Co, Miller Brewing Company, Lottery Technologies, Pepsi, DREAM Nightclub, Independence Air and Pearl Restaurant & Lounge.

Viva Las Vegas is JSFs largest fundraiser of the year. Tickets are $65 in advance, and $75 at the door. VIP tickets are available for $100 and provide access to an all night VIP lounge including an open bar, upgraded catering, a special prize drawing and one-of-a-kind gift bags. For additional details and to purchase tickets, visit http://www.joyofsports.org or contact the JSF office at 202-548-0185.

ABOUT JOY OF SPORTS
JSF's mission is to inspire at-risk children to grow healthy in body, mind, and spirit by teaching them critical life success skills through sports and education. Utilizing a variety of sport-based programs designed to appeal to different age groups and to reach the broadest audience possible, JSF directly serves thousands of at-risk children in the Washington, DC metropolitan area every year. We are honored that our programs have been recognized as models by the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the United States Tennis Association. Additionally, the White House has recognized JSF as a Point of Light in appreciation of the organization's outstanding service to at-risk children.

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