Casino Night raises big bucks for student scholarships
6th annual Rotary event rakes in $243,863
JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — The Wort Hotel and JH Rotary Lunch Club Foundation celebrated an in-person and virtual hybrid Casino Night on November 6 in the Silver Dollar Bar with our generous community’s help.
Rotary president Jim Waldrop, who is also the general manager of The Wort Hotel, welcomed guests to the event and spoke about how support from programs like this encourages students to dream big and achieve their goals.
In the past five years, the Rotary Club has raised over a million dollars for student scholarships that benefit a diverse array of students who have displayed merit through academics, work ethic, drive, and future goals.
This year’s hybrid event meant limited in-person tickets were sold; however, many joined online and picked up a prime rib dinner to enjoy during the festivities. While the traditional gambling elements such as blackjack and roulette tables were not present due to COVID, attendees enjoyed entertainment from the Jackson 6 jazz band.
Hosts Jeff Ward, Erin Weissman, and Jim Waldrop kept the enthusiasm for silent auction items and donations going throughout the night.
An original Amy Ringholz painting, custom J.W. Bennett hat, and rounds of golf were among the fantastic auction items generously donated by sponsors. After all the chips were counted, Casino Night raised $243,863 for student scholarships.
“We are beyond grateful for a community that, every year, knows the value of supporting our hardworking students through scholarship opportunities,” Waldrop said. “Everyone at Rotary and The Wort Hotel works diligently to make this event happen, and we thank everyone who supported us and our generous, amazing sponsors for encouraging our local students to reach their potential and fulfill their dreams.”