A new Bunco experience is coming to Buckhannon in a big way. The Upshur County Arts Alliance is sponsoring a Big Bunco Bash fundraiser to be held on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 6, at the Buckhannon Elks Lodge. Parking is available at the Lodge, as well as at the Senior Center and Buckhannon city lots.
The Elks generously offered the space to the UAA, which provides funding to five arts umbrella groups, including Buckhannon Community Theater, Buckhannon Choral Society, Augusta Youth Ballet, Artistry on Main, and Buckhannon Chamber Orchestra. Proceeds from the event will help support these groups throughout the year. The five organizations will be providing snacks for purchase at the event, as well as various raffle and silent auction items.
Bunco, a dice-rolling game much in the spirit of playing “jacks,” is an easy game to learn. It is played at tables of four people who ultimately try to roll three of a kind, changing partners after each game. Although the game dates back to the 1880s, a modern version of Bunco thrives today in many communities. Rules vary from club to club with designated prizes awarded at the end of the final set.
Registration forms and fees–$25 for an individual, or $100 for a group of four—must be turned in by Sunday, Sept. 22. Unlike Bingo fundraisers and elimination dinners, the registrant must be present to play and needs to plan to stay for the entire event. Doors will open at 1:00, with the “roll” beginning at 2:00. During the Social Hour before the first set of games, attendees may enter raffles, bid on items, purchase food, and learn how to play the game. “Bunco School” will run informally from 1:15-1:45 with experienced players teaching others how to play. Rules and directions will be available on every table, so no prior experience is necessary. All attendees must be 18 or older.
Those who are unable to attend but wish to contribute may donate items, such as gift certificates and themed gift baskets, for prizes, raffles, and auctions. Donations may be delivered to UAA member David Carson at 25 Marion Street (304-642-3892.)
Registration forms are available in several locations, including Artistry on Main, The Dance Factory, B-U Chamber of Commerce, Lanora’s Custom Picture Framing, or by contacting Jane Godwin at janeweimergodwin@gmail.com or 304-516-9211. People may register individually or in groups of four. A group registration guarantees that those players will be assigned to the same group.
The Big Bunco Bash promises to be a fun afternoon and a fresh experience for the community. Please join the Upshur Arts Alliance in its efforts to support local arts.
