Inaugural Suitcase Party Benefits Spread the Word Nevada Literacy Programs

May 14, 2010 - More than 200 guests turned out for the first annual Spread the Word Nevada Suitcase Party, a fundraiser to benefit Spread the Word Nevada'schildren's literacy programs.

The first fundraiser of its kind in Nevada, Spread the Word Nevada partnered with Fletcher Jones Imports which hosted the event in its showroom. Fletcher Jones Imports also provided the Mercedes-Benz Maybach for transportation of the Grand Prize winner to Caesars Palace for a weekend getaway.

Sponsors of additional resort packages included The Sands Foundation and Loews Lake Las Vegas. Tickets to the event entitled each guest to a raffle ticket and a chance at winning one of three resort packages.

A jazz band from the Las Vegas Academy provided entertainment at the Suitcase Party, while guests mingled with libation provided by Barefoot Wine & Bubbly and Lee's Discount Liquor.

Appetizers were provided by Piero's Italian Cuisine.

The event emcee was Chris "Ripley" Ewing (below), Program Director of X-107.5 Xtreme (KXTE-FM).

Below are Susan Miller, Spread the Word Nevada's Chairman of the Board, Tom Zumbo, Sales Manager of Fletcher Jones Imports, Laurie Hartig, Founder/Program Director of Spread the Word Nevada, and John Hartig.

Carrie Nelson was the winner of the Loews Lake Las Vegas resort package, which included a gondola ride on the lake and dinner for two at any Lake Las Vegas restaurant.

James and Karen Atkins were the winners of a two-night resort package at The Palazzo. The prize package also featured dinner at Cut and tickets to see "Jersey Boys."

Kris Hansen, the Grand Prize winner (pictured below), won the raffle for a two-night stay at Caesars Palace, dinner for two at Rao's in Caesars Palace, and tickets to a performance by Cher.

Thanks to all our generous partners for this very successful event in support of our literacy efforts!