Nugget hosts V&T fund-raiser

David John and the Comstock Cowboys are providing the entertainment, the bar will be open and the music flowing at the Carson City Nugget from 8-11 p.m. Saturday to benefit reconstruction of the V&T Railway from Gold Hill to Carson City.

A songwriter whose career has spanned more than 30 years, John has written for a host of companies, including CBS, MCA, Welk and Peer Southern music publishers.

In a blend of old and new. John's songs go back to a simpler time, with more traditional themes of life, death, horses and cowboys.

The benefit includes finger foods and two no-host bars. The tables will be set up nightclub-style, and a small dance floor will be available.

The Carson Nugget is footing the bill for the fund-raiser, which is co-sponsored by the Nevada Appeal.

"It should be fun," said Kevin Ray, project coordinator for the V&T. "And 100 percent of the proceeds from the door goes toward reconstruction of the V&T. We really appreciate what the Nugget and Nevada Appeal are doing for us."

Ray will be stationed outside the Nugget's ballroom to answer questions about the project.

"I'll have all the relevant information, including maps and information on right-of-way acquisitions," he said.

V&T officials are close to starting the estimated $28 million project. It should be completed in about two years, V&T officials said.

Economic statements project a $40.9 million impact from the construction project alone. Once the train is operating, the annual economic impact for the region is estimated at $16.5 million.

Raising the money for a project of this scope has been daunting. Money has come from a number of sources, including Storey County's quarter-cent sales tax, bonds from the Carson City Convention and Visitors' Bureau and federal dollars from the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act.

Ray expects a large turnout Saturday.

"It's going to be a big evening," he said. "Tickets may be for sale at the door, but I encourage people to pick them up early."

Nugget spokesman Doug Brown said about 200 tickets had been purchased by Wednesday, and he's anticipating a sell-out.

"Our general experience is, people buy at the last minute and at the door," he said.

Tickets cost $15 for general admission and $10 for Prospector's Club members for the 21-and-over event. Tickets are at the Prospector's Club Booth at the Nugget from 8 a.m. to midnight.

For more information, call the Nugget at 882-1626, ext. 236.