Riverside Nature Center to host annual fundraiser [Kerrville Daily Times, Texas]

Oct. 23--The Riverside Nature Center hosts an array of edutaining programs -- programs that are both educational and entertaining -- that not only celebrate the native landscape but also spotlight the wildlife that call the area home.

But it takes the support of local businesses and residents to be able to bring the many programs to the community.

Mary Muse, executive director, said she knows the economic climate makes it difficult for many to dig deep and support all the deserving nonprofits in the area, but she's hoping people will ante up at the center's third annual Harvest Moon fundraiser.

This year's event, which is from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday at the Schreiner Building, 200 Earl Garrett St., features something new: gaming tables.

"Our games are black Jack oak (aka black Jack), mountain top-river bottom (aka high/low), turkey bingo, wildlife races and Hill Country trivia," Muse said.

Tickets to the event are $75, which includes food, beverages and a bag of 10 chips to use for the games.

"Throughout the evening, guests may buy more chips. When the game tables close, guests will exchange their chips for prize tickets to deposit in a bag next to each prize. At 9 o'clock, we will draw the winning ticket for each of the prizes."

Prizes include a pair of 2013-14 tickets to the Schreiner Mansion Concert Series, "Music at the Mansion"; an original watercolor by the artist Pat Garren; an original watercolor by artist John Meigs; a pair of tickets to the San Antonio Botanical Center and a gift basket from Gardens at the Ridge; a decorative pewter stand and gift certificate for a homemade pie; and a $150 gift certificate and a goodie bag from Schreiner Goods.

"Harvest Moon is an important fundraiser for Riverside Nature Center," Muse said. "Over 20 percent of our annual revenue comes from fund-raising. Our goal for this event is to net $15,000 to $20,000."

Proceeds from the event fund Riverside Nature Center's operation, she said.

"Specifically, our atrium exhibits, our administrative expenses, utilities, insurance -- everything to fund our infrastructure so that we can provide the public with an interpretative facility and demonstration gardens free of charge."

Food at the event will be catered by Cal-Bob, and the menu includes brisket sliders and Cal-Bob's dipping sauce, turkey finger sandwiches with cilantro mayonnaise, black-eyed peas and hominy dip, Cal-Bob's smoked red pepper soup, assorted vegetables and crackers with olive and capers cream cheese and chocolate brownies for dessert. Beverages served include beer, wine, soft drinks and bottled water.

"This will be a fun evening of table games and wagers accompanied by a great spread of food," Muse said. "For those who enjoy an occasional trip to Las Vegas, our black Jack tables will be fun, and for those who have never been to Las Vegas, our games offer a kinder gentler way of experiencing the thrill of wagering without losing lots of money."

Most importantly, she said, "this event is a great way to support Riverside Nature Center and enjoy a social evening with others in our great community."

For tickets, visit the website at www.riversidenaturecenter.org.

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