SMOKEY POINT — Those who want to attend the Arlington-Smokey Point Chamber of Commerce’s 10th annual Black & White Gala at the Medallion Hotel on Saturday, Sept. 21, only have until Tuesday, Sept. 17, to RSVP for the event.

Chamber Vice President Julie Morse aims to generate as much as $15,000 through this year’s fundraising gala, after last year’s event raised close to $10,000.

“The economy and attendance are the two key factors in determining how well a fundraiser will do, I think,” Morse said. “When people have extra money, they’re more likely to spend it, and last year alone, I think we saw a sign of an absolutely tremendous change in the economy, in terms of people’s generosity. Between this and the builders who are building again, many of whom hadn’t built anything since 2008, I think our economy has really turned a corner.”

Morse promised that those who do purchase $65 tickets in advance (none will be available at the door) will be treated to an elegant evening of served plate dinners with a champagne reception and light entertainment, in addition to silent and live auctions, the latter emceed by Kelly Lee and offering trips to Ocean Shores and Mexico.

“It’s black tie optional, and women are welcome to wear cocktail dresses, but this is one of the few events in Arlington that allows people to really dress up,” Morse said. “Please come out to support this event, since the money you spend will go right back into the community.”

The champagne reception and silent auction will run from 5:30-6:30 p.m., and the live entertainment will coincide with the dinner by starting at 7 p.m. From there, the live auction will kick off at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets for a raffle for an 16 GB WiFi iPad 2 Tablet are $10 at the Chamber offices at 4126-B 172nd St. NE in Arlington. For more information, please call the Chamber offices at 360-659-5453 or email manager@arlington-smokeypointchamber.com.