Casino Night Comes to The Bristal

The familiar clangs of slot machines could be heard as soon as the doors opened. No, this wasn’t Atlantic City - it was Casino Night at . Residents and visitors alike were treated to a night of gaming and snacking on Thursday night at the assisted living facility. 

And they didn’t even have to take a bus. 

“The residents are having a blast,” Judy Piazza, Director of Community Relations at The Bristal, said. “This is something that is different to them. They have gone out to the casinos, but to actually have it in their own home is pretty awesome. A lot of them are down here having fun.” 

For Piazza and her staff, inviting the local community to attend was almost as important as entertaining the residents. 

“It’s a good opportunity for the residents to have fun and for the community to see our property and how much fun we have here,” she said. “We try to open the building to the community. We’ve had the Chamber of Commerce here many times. We believe in dealing with the community and helping one another out.”

Attendees had the opportunity to play slots, black jack, roulette, and poker. At the beginning of the evening each participant was given the same amount of “funny,” or fake, money. After that, luck took over. Those with the highest remaining amount of money after the two hour session were given prizes.

The grand prize was a 24 inch flat screen television. Other prizes included Calvin Klein cologne, a collection of margarita mixes, Moet and Chandon champagne, a $25 Village Car Service voucher, and a $25 Angelina’s gift card. 

“We want them to see that they actually can win big prizes,” Piazza said. “Just because it’s ‘funny money‘ doesn’t mean they’re not getting a big prize. I believe The Bristal goes all out in all of their functions and we’re not skimping on this one either.”      

Those not gambling enjoyed a selection of hors d’oeuvres. Pigs in a blanket, spinach pop overs, potstickers, and shrimp were served in large quantities.