SMT’s 3rd Annual Casino Night Another Huge Success!

Our 3rd Annual Casino Night was held on Saturday, May 15 at Laurel Creek Country Club in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey.  This year’s event was presented by Mednet Healthcare Technologies.

One hundred guests, foundation supporters and board of directors members from the tri-state area were greeted by the M.C. Karen Rogers, Channel 6 Action News meteorologist and host of FYI Philly, and Sydney Mae Taylor Foundation co-founders Erin and Jay Taylor, of Lumberton, New Jersey.

Karen Rogers, Channel 6ABC Meterologist and Guest MC, makes a touching and heartfelt speech

At the third annual event, guests played blackjack, craps, roulette and Texas Hold ‘Em Poker while enjoying a dinner with a dessert buffet and open bar.  Guests also bid on silent auction items including jewelry, a VIP tour of the David Letterman Show, tickets to Regis & Kelly, Phillies, Yankees and Mets baseball tickets, local sports memorabilia, and theme gift baskets including gift certificates from local businesses.

A highlight of the evening was the introduction of one of SMT’s current students who receives a college scholarship from the Foundation. Kevin Bell, a student at Ball State University, told the guests about his struggles and triumphs being a “heart kid.”  The Foundation has given twenty five scholarships, with twenty one being awarded this year!  This year’s event was a huge success, raising $13,000!

Kevin Bell addresses the guests.

Awarding the college scholarships fulfills part of SMT’s mission, which is to contribute to the education and well-being of children with congenital heart defects. The scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, extracurricular activities, and community involvement.

The next fund raising event, Sydney Mae Taylor Foundation’s Golf Tournament, will be held at Laurel Creek Country Club on October 11, 2010. More information is available at www.sydneymaetaylorfoundation.org.