Boulder City schools return Tricky Tray fundraiser after decade-long hiatus

Boulder City public schools will host a Tricky Tray basket raffle on Nov. 19 to raise funds after the event was absent for over a decade. The gathering is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Boulder City High School gym. Tickets are $1 and can be purchased or deposited into drawing containers during the first hour of the evening.

The name often confuses people unfamiliar with the regional term, which is common in the Northeast. BCHS principal Amy Wagner clarified that it is simply a basket raffle or penny social. Guests buy tickets and place them in containers for specific baskets. They can concentrate their entries on one prize or spread them across several options. Organizers will draw a winning ticket for each basket.

Each of the four local public schools is assembling themed baskets. Wagner recalled that in previous years, the four principals entertained the crowd while numbers were drawn. She described the event as a way to unite the community and support the schools. Participants may also take home items for their holiday gift lists.

In an email to parents, Wagner invited families to join whether they remember past events or are attending for the first time. She asked residents to invite friends and help spread the word about the shared purpose of supporting students. The letter concluded with the slogan: Four schools. One community. Stronger together!