The Great Valley Museum at Modesto Junior College invites the community to its first Casino and Game Night fundraiser on Saturday, March 9 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. in the Science Community Center on the MJC West Campus, 2201 Blue Gum Ave., Modesto.

Each admission receives one drink ticket, one opportunity drawing ticket and a selection of hors d’oeuvres. Attendees are able to purchase playing chips to use at the blackjack tables in order to increase their chances in the various opportunity drawings. (Playing chips are not redeemable for cash.)

The event also offers a silent auction featuring fine art, sports and celebrity collectables, photography, home décor, antiques, jewelry, fine wine, and travel and leisure items. A 50/50 split opportunity drawing is also available.

Tickets are $40 and purchasers must be 21 years or older. To purchase tickets, donate a silent auction item, or obtain sponsorship information, contact the museum at (209) 575-6196 or visit the museum webpage at www.mjc.edu/gvm.

The Great Valley Museum Foundation uses event funds to continue development of the GVM as one of California’s premier natural history museums and benefit the museum’s programs and activities.

Each year, thousands of young minds receive the benefit of hands-on science activities at the Great Valley Museum. The museum’s Traveling Teacher programs include live reptiles and insects, current environmental issues and local Native American artifacts, to name a few. The museum also offers group tours, Science on a Sphere shows and planetarium presentations. These programs enhance the educational experience for school children in the Central Valley and assist in addressing the Science Content Standards for California.