CULLMAN – The rattling of dice and squeals of delight filled the Family Life Center at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. The glasses were filled, and the dies were cast in an evening of delight for all. The goal was twofold, have fun with friends and raise money for the Altar Society.
“The Altar Society is made up of all the women of the church,” said LuAnn Gissell, president-elect of the group. “We take care of the altar. We buy the wine, bread, candles, linens and flowers. Anything that is needed there, we take care of and pay for it. Which can be expensive so we raise the money by holding events like this.”
Bunco is a simple but exciting game played with dice and a scorecard. Players roll three dice at a time and try to roll the number in play that correlates with the round you are in. For example, if a player is in round one, then for each 1 that the player rolls, they get one point, unless they roll three 1s, which would be a 21 or Bunco. Losers at the end of each round switch to a new table with new partners.
While not difficult to learn, the game was anything but boring. Women all around the room were laughing and cheering every time they hit a Bunco. One participant loved the idea of the event for more than just the wine.
“I think this was a wonderful night,” said Susan Copeland. “You are always moving around so you get to mingle with a lot of different women. It’s also a great fundraiser, and I think it’s just a lot of fun for the social aspect of it. You can’t beat a good cause, good time and good refreshments.”
The event also featured a wide array of prizes for their Chinese auction. Participants were given a number upon arrival, and a drawing was held to see who won, instead of a bidding match.
“We had a lot great businesses and people donate items,” said Grissell. “Deep South Classics, The Grotto gift shop donated, Serendipity and Flavors were some of the businesses that helped us with this. We also had individuals bring items as well, and we are grateful to everyone that helped.”
The ladies’ night event was a huge success, drawing over 50 women of all ages to Sacred Heart who felt that the night was more than worth the $20 ticket. Grissell stated that they will almost definitely hold another ladies’ Bunco night in the future.
For more information on the Altar Society or this event, call 256-734-3730.
