Cranford Weekend: Casino Night, Book Sale

Looking to play some texas hold'em or roulette this weekend? No need to head down the parkway, because will host a casino night this weekend—complete with professional dealers, tables, and decor.

"It's a good cause and most importantly it will be fun," said Mark Kaplan, one of the organizers of the event. "That's also why we're trying to publicize it to the general community...we will have alcohol, we will have desserts. You don't have to drive all the way to Atlantic City to have this kind of gaming experience, you can do it right here in Cranford."

Among the games will be blackjack, roullette, and several poker tables, including texas hold'em.

"Sunglasses and hat are optional," said Kaplan.

A $40 admission fee, if paid in advance, will get each participant $100 worth of chips and will benefit the temple. Refreshments, hors d'oeurves, and desserts will be served. When the night ends, gamers can take their chips and bid on prizes, goods and services, restaurant gift certificates, and more. A fishing boat day trip, a spa gift certificate, and tennis lessons are just some examples of prizes.

"Casino Royale" at the Temple Beth El Mekor Chayim will run from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, March 12. Registration is available online.

More events in Cranford this weekend:

Friday, March 11

• National Garden Club judges will critique parallel floral designs from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the . To attend, RSVP by email at overbrook@comcast.net, or by phone at 917-502-1270.

Saturday, March 12

• A , hosted by the Cranford Knights of Columbus, will be held beginning at 7:30 p.m. There will be live music, gift basket raffles, beer, wine, soda, and a corned beef and cabbage meal for $35 per person. To make a reservation, call Mike Lynskey at 908-709-8054 or email mwlynskey@gmail.com.

• The presents "Carol Channeling," a one woman show by Maggie Graham, in which she does impressions of such stars as Judy Garland, Barbra Streisand, and Julie Andrews. The show begins at 8 p.m. at the . Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for seniors and students.

Sunday, March 13

• A used book sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the will benefit Evan Schulz's Eagle Scout project, which is a beautification project—a landscaping garden on the front lawn of the temple with seating.

• will also be holding a Purim carnival from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., including food, prizes, and other fun activities for children of any age.