About That Tricky Tray.. I Just Want To Say_Chapter 16 (Closed)

Use This Post To "Speak Your Mind" About A Tricky Tray or Anything Related To A Tricky Tray. Tell us about the Grand Prize You Just Won or How You Haven't Won A Thing 10 Tricky Trays Straight. Just Click On The comment link below and start typing away. However..no personal attacks will be tolerated .

Comments

Mr. Tricky Tray said…
Happy New Year Everyone!

Look for voting Link on Jan 1 for Best Tricky Tray of 2012.
Anonymous said…
Hey..is anyone else noticing trickytray.com loading slow past few days?
Anonymous said…
loads fine for me - probably loads all the faster considering there are so few events right now.

Usually there are quite a few pricey dinner events during the winter months which costs way more than I want to pay for just 'food'. This is to raise money for various nonprofits and it never ceases to amaze me how committees choose to price out so many people from donating. We can go out to eat whenever and wherever we want for that much money. Let us bring all of our money and buy tickets with it rather than forced to purchace overpriced buffet food.
But then those organizations who want to discourage 'trickytrayers' from attending have found an effective way of accomplishing that.
Anonymous said…
Does anyone know if St Elizabeth is doing their tt this year? It used to be scheduled at St Theresa's early in JAN each year.
thanks ...
Anonymous said…
It's on trickytray.com for March this year.

Saturday, March 9, 2013
Tricky Tray Sponsored By
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
Location:
St. Therese Gym
151 Main Street
Succasunna, NJ 07876
Anonymous said…
Just wanted to say I spend at least $100 on each auction because it goes to good causes and yes many times I put many tickets in the same bag because I really want that item or I give it to my kid. Yes it looks like I win so much but I spend so much. Even if I just get 1 basket I am happy to give
Meowz said…
I have some information on the Mother Seton Regional HS Tricky Tray Friday 3/1. Tickets are limited so if you are interested in going contact Ana Rego arego66@aol.com for a ticket form. Tables can be reserved for 8 or 10 parties only. Ticket price is $15 which includes 25 regular prize level tickets + refreshments. Additionally, for the other prize levels, a $20 value pack is available on first come first serve. Value Packs won't be sold at the door. Included in the value pack are 2 sets of Blue (10 tickets) 1 set of Yellow (3), Green (4), Red – Super Prizes (2), Purple – Grand Prizes (1). You can reserve more than one value pack with your admission. Their cap is 600 people and apparently they sell out each year. They will have 250-300 prizes. Not the best prize to people ratio but this event still may be worth checking out.
Anonymous said…
The previous poster who spends $100/event- Do you really find yourself winning so much you need to explain to anyone that you bought 'a lot' of tickets? given all the levels and 50/50, I'm spending $100 and went home with not even a doorprize the last 3 events. bah
Meowz said…
Over and above the admission price I budget myself $50 to spend at the event. It only takes one ticket to win. Sometimes luck is on your side, sometimes not.
elaine said…
That is one of my questions for any tricky tray event. It is disappointing to go to a tricky tray with a large crowd and meager amount of prizes. My questions to planners always are-How many tickets are being sold and Approximately how many prizes are available.
I love to use this sight to find random TT to go to. I pop on each week, if i see one i go. I also know that if it is sold out, its posted on the sight AND that there is always a chance that when i get there it can be sold out. No big deal, i totally understand, i chose to not buy ahead of time... But i wanted to share my experience with one a few weeks ago, in east Brunswick.

I got there about a half hour before the doors open, there was a line like always. After a bit i find out that they are sold out, but to wait to the side and they will let us know in one hour if there is more tickets or not. So i decide to wait, along with a few others that i think use this sight, since i see some people come out selling tickets. Now there was no adults/teachers at the main table, looked like a bunch of students. You can tell they were avoiding the 15 of us waiting for tickets.

This is the part i needed to share... After an hour of waiting, a teacher comes out and a student tells her that this line is waiting for tickets. She then goes on a rampage saying if we dont have tickets we shouldnt have come and a direct quote was "you dont just come into this school to use the bathroom". She went on and on talking about the few of us waiting there about how we need to learn to buy tickets like everyone else and bad mouth us, but with her back to us. Then about 10 minuets later another teacher comes out and says this. "ok, to the people who are waiting for tickets. We are completly sold out. You need to get off the property now. Tickets were sold in advance. Leave now." No please, nothing. that was an exact quote that will stick with me for a while since i have never been spoken to so rude at a FUNDRAISER.

Again, i know things sell out and i was well prepared to leave but i have NEVER been spoken to so rudly!

Has anyone else been to one that was that rude? Please share, as i will never spend my $ at one that talks to people like that.
Anonymous said…
There are events that post - advance tickets only. Absolutely no tickets sold at the door.
It would be interesting to know if there is some urban legend being passed from committee to committee about how this is needed to keep out some particular type of people. The phrasing and the attitude is significantly different from events where they have maxed out their seating.
well the one i was talking about said tickets would be sold at the door, forgot to mention that. Also, when i got there another person metioned that she saw it online and when she called they said that there would be tickets at the door and that they could not hold them for her.

I just could not believe how rude they were. Congrats on selling out your tricky tray, but they should NEVER talk to people like that if they want them to try again next year.
Anonymous said…
If I were you I would write a letter to the school/organization about your experience. That is NOT a way to treat people who want to contribute to a fundraiser.
I think i might. they had programs there, and on the last page there was a survey of how we liked the tricky tray. I took one home because i was going to write something, but then after a day or so i decided to forget it, but now 2 weeks later its still bothering me to the point that i dont want to show up at random ones anymore. Being treated like that was awful and seriously embarrassing.

I hope i still have that page so that i can write to them. If not, i will be closly looking at any east brunswick ones to make sure its not the same school. Im all about donation to a cause, but not that one anymore
Anonymous said…
find the local paper that publishes articles about school events and write a letter to the editor to complain about the verbal abuse...or post it on the nj.com forums----someplace where word would get around.
KathyH said…
Tickets are now on sale for the Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter's tricky tray on Saturday, May 4th.

Our $15 admission includes hot appetizers, dessert, coffee and tea plus a sheet of level one tickets.

We haven't raised our prices in two years. I believe that our prices are very reasonable. Then throw in the quality of the baskets and I can honestly say it is a GREAT tricky tray.

Also we sell sheet tickets, not single roll type tickets, for the first three levels of baskets.
Prizes include 42" TV, two grand prize coach bags and coach products in every level, Kindle fire, laptop, park hopper passes, sports collectibles, and tons more.

Plus we were in the 10 ten tricky trays for both our previous tts.

Tickets will sell out. We have already sold over 50 tickets and they just went on sale.

Hope to see you there.
KathyH
Anonymous said…
When will the results for the best Tricky Tray of 2012 be posted?
Mr. Tricky Tray said…
I am hoping to have results published later this week. Finishing up a work related deadline which is slowing me down.

Thanks for checking in!
Anonymous said…
Event committees hopefully are still monitoring the postings here and learning from what we share. there should be a straightforward handling of ticket sales. If the event is sold out, a sign should be posted to that effect. And workers near the entrance should have the real story so that standby's who show up are told in a civil manner what is going on. We have a number of events that cope with presale and standby lines without anyone going off the deep end. Clearly no one wants additional stress for workers or supporters that is caused by not having a plan.
Unknown said…
Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter tricky tray on May 4th at the VFW in Manville tickets have only been on sale for a week, and we're 1/3 of the way to selling out! If you're planning on coming, I wouldn't wait too long to buy your tickets!
Marie said…
Does anyone know when the Saint James TT in Woodbridge is? Last year it was close to Mothers day. I'm thinking about the one posted above me on may 5th, but dont want want to buy tickets because im afraid of the conflict!
Unknown said…
I don't know when the St. James TT is, but I DO know that FOSRAS TT is phenomenal. Okay, so maybe I'm a little prejudiced, but our baskets kick other TT's baskets butts! If you'd like, I can email you some pictures of some of the baskets we have completed so far. You can email me at gabyzee@aol.com. Once you see them, your decision will be a no-brainer! LOL
Anonymous said…
There is nothing more annoying then sitting at a table with people who talk about ebay the whole time. Each basket they wanted they talked about how much they could get... if they didnt win they complained about how much they were loosing. Then at the end of the night added up what they spent and what they were going to make. I know its a fundraiser, but to do it right there is just rude, exspecially since other people at the table wanted the things!
Marie said…
Anne im going to email you now about your TT. By chance do you need volunteers... Or does anyone here need one? I have helped at almost a dozen (making baskets/selling tickets/running baskets/serving food/helping people) and I will be honest, IM BORED! I live in the woodbridge area and i cant think of a better thing to do with my time then to help.
Marie said…
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Unknown said…
Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter - May 4th, Manville VFW

SORRY! There's a typo in our ad (I've asked Mr. Tricky Tray to fix it, but I know he's pretty busy:

Level 1 Baskets ($25-$75 value) $10 for sheet of 25 tickets

Level 2 Baskets ($75-$150 value) $12 for sheet of 25 tickets

Level 1 Baskets ($150+ value) $15 for sheet of 25 tickets (THIS SHOULD READ LEVEL 3!)
Anonymous said…
Heard about awesome Tricky Tray March 2nd in South River over 563 prizes and allowing 320 people in GREAT ODDS. I know the people running it ran another one before and it was awesome. Some of big prizes 39 inch tv-ipad mini/case, android tablet/case/hopper passes. sportsmemorabiale a lot of gift cards. Even have a $200 gift card tree. check it out South River Class of 2015
Mr. Tricky Tray said…
It's Official...
Best Tricky Tray of 2012 is.....

You will just have to click and find out.

http://www.trickytray.com/thevote.htm

Check Out 2012's
Top 10 Tricky Trays as Voted by the Visitors & Fans of TrickyTray.com
Marie said…
Anyone going to an Tricky Trays in middlesex county coming up? edison has one or even the south river one a few posts up... Need a new buddy to go with! Love to go, hate to go alone!
Unknown said…
Hello All,
My name is Marjoriet and I am Founder of the non-profit organization Devin & Tristan Give back. We are currently interested in hosting a Tricky Tray but have no knowledge of this type of event. Profits of our TT will be given to the family of a 9 year old boy recently diagnosed with Myelodysplatic Syndrome and is in desperate need of some funds. We are looking for volunteers on the Tricky Tray circut to help us. If you are interested in helping us, please visit www.DevinTristanGiveBack.com or contact me directly at Marjoriet@devintristangiveback.com - I am eager to hear from you. We are aiming for an April Tricky Tray in the Northern Jersey Area.
KathyH said…
Marjoriet, do you have a raffle license yet for your tricky tray? You need to register with the NJ Gaming commission then apply for a raffle license for the event. If you are already registered with the gaming commission that is great. Depends of the town but usually takes at least 4 weeks to get a raffle license approved. You may want to push out your TT.
Hunter's Mom said…
Do we know if the south river tricky tray still has tickets? Sounds awesome. Speaking of awesome....FOSRAS in Manville is always a great one! Great snacks...lots of baskets...quick caller....it's a good one for sure.

And omg if I was sitting with a bunch of people who went to tricky trays to sell the stuff on eBay ...geez.. I don't know....that seems to somehow take the fun out of it. Last couple times I went I definitely dropped over a hundred bucks and came away with nothing....but it was still fun.
Anonymous said…
I just called about the South River one and they still have tickets. Over 600 prizes limited to 300 people. $10 admission comes with 1 sheet of level 1 tickets.
Anonymous said…
These spammers are so annoying! What's with them? They've got nothing better to do than to troll sites and post their crap. Spammers....this is a tricky tray board....we don't care about what you've got to offer!!!!!
Mr. Tricky Tray said…
Well the spammers are annoying! The system does get rid of alot but some still sneak through.

I am going to try the word verification option that will stop automated spamming software..let see how that goes.

Mr Tricky Tray
Anonymous said…
Went to the South River tricky tray tonight and will never go back! The venue selected was way too small to accommodate 300 people. Everyone was packed in like sardines and it was almost near impossible to look at prizes and drop tickets. The event started at 5 and people weren't even able to get in the door; there was a long line outside since they were selling prize tickets inside which held everyone up. Understandably with 600 prizes calling took long but the caller was good. We left at midnight and the event probably ended at 12:30am. It also seemed like the same group of people were winning over and over. The caller's wife won at least 4 baskets alone. I won 2 items so I can't complain but overall the stress and overcrowding of the event took away the fun and enjoyment.
Anonymous said…
Please event organizers take a lesson from last nights south river tricky tray....do not oversell your event and make sure your venue is big enough to accommodate your prizes and guests.
At the south river tricky tray the tables were so packed in when people were seated there was no room to move (literally). The runners couldn't even get the prizes to the tables. Not to mention there was no place to put them once they did.
They were left with having to place the prizes along the wall perimeter and not only were the prizes stacked 3 and 4 deep, they were on the floor. Given the poor lighting and crowds you could not see what half the prizes were. And with no room left to spare getting the tickets in was a claustrophobic experience to say the least
Caller was pretty good but had to stop a couple of times as the runners were giving out the wrong prizes to people. Doors opened at 5:00 and we didn't get out till 12:30!
They had a lot of prizes (over 600) and were all nice quality baskets...however the severe overcrowding situation really ruined the evening. Please take note organizers do not oversell or overcrowd the event.



Anonymous said…
In light of the posts about the South River tricky tray (one of which was mine), it would be great to hear recommendations about good tricky trays. By good I mean ones that are organized, don't overcrowd, have a good gift to people ratio etc. I know there is Mr Tricky Trays "best of" list but in addition it would be great to hear about more events where people can go and have a fun and relaxing evening as opposed to a stressful one.
Anonymous said…
Regarding the venue and amount of people at South River a fire hazard is putting it mildly.....
Anonymous said…
I said stop this crap about South River TT.. They tried their best and heard once they found out their prizes 600 mind you were taking up some room they took away some tables they only sold 290 tickets and One table cancelled so 280 instead of 310.... every table was taken so that means people walked in without admission? Who is suppose to know mean people do that. They kept telling people not to move to perimeter because it was a fire hazard. They mention exits all night. I heard they worked on this for a year handful of women.. Not much help from parents. No place in south river had a bigger place. Knights of columbus was being sold??? If you were unhappy you should of asked for your money back but i guess you liked the prizes? Look at your book 600 prizes 290 people about 25 big prizes.. what school has that...
Unknown said…
On a completely opposite note from the South River event, I attended the Michael's Miracle tricky tray at the VFW in Manville on Friday night. What a FANTASTIC event!!! The hall was decorated beautifully, the prizes were fantastic - both the contents of the baskets and their presentation, and the prices were well in line with values. Not overcrowded (although they may have been hurt by another event in town), plenty of prizes to go around, hot food served, desserts, door prizes....I could go on and on.

I've attended quite a few tricky trays, and also am on a committee getting ready to hold one in two months, and I can tell you right now - this one ranked up there in the top three that I've ever attended.

And to other organizers - FYI, at an event that's well run, not overcrowded, with really nice baskets - I have NO problem easily dropping $200.

Kudos to the organizers of this event - job well done!
Anonymous said…
I've been to some TT's at the Manville VFW and it's an excellent venue for them where it never gets overcrowded. I'll go to a TT just for the fact that it is at the VFW alone!
Anonymous said…
people shouldn't be able to walk in without admission---someone stays at the door the whole time and checks tickets...
Anonymous said…
sometimes people do legitimately win a lot--once I bought a lot of tickets-and won a 5% of the prizes.....
Anonymous said…
AND WHY CAN'T AN ORG GO TO ANOTHER TOWN IF SOUTH RIVER DOESN"T HAVE A BIG ENOUGH VENUE?

Anonymous said…
Has anyone ever attended the Animal Rescue Force (ARF) tricky tray at East Brunswick HS? Any reviews? Thanks!
marie said…
I, plus 2 friends, went to the south river tricky tray.

the bad - It was way over crowded, prizes were crammed in and i missed many i wanted because i didnt see what was in it and there was not enough time to drop in.

the good - the caller was great, the prizes were AMAZING, good varierty of food that lasted all night, snacks on the tables, organized prize list, good ticket prices.

I hope that they learn from this one for next year. If anyone is on this page from there, i applaud you for the wonderful job that you did with all the hard work.

I came home with 14 prizes. Granted i did spend a good amount of money, but i must have been wearing lucky socks that day!
Anonymous said…
Well the South River High School one had some really nice prizes. And the prices were very reasonable. You certainly increase the odds of winning if you spend a lot of money. Which I saw a lot of people did.
Anonymous said…
Yes the South River TT was crowded but myself and friends won at least four to six prizes?? It was fun. prizes they had were unbelievable dyson, hooper passes 40 inch tv iPad mini a cuisinart package with about 10 items, 3 barbecues couldn't name them all. would rather win more prizes and be crowded.. Stand up and bow to the women who put this together can't wait for next year
Anonymous said…
Is anyone going to the St. Elizabeth's tricky tray on Saturday? It's usually in January but this year it's March 9. LOTS of prizes, usually 600-700.
Anonymous said…
Any word on TT snowdates? If the schools are closed due to weather, normally all afterschool events are cancelled. And all this snow will melt by MON, so they might not clear the parking lots for events on SAT. Even if in the evening, schools won't open the buildings because of safety reasons during the day for the committees to get in and set up.
Anonymous said…
Hats off to the Lawrence Brook PTA in East Brunswick for putting on an awesome tricky tray tonight. Over 250 prizes and attendance was capped at 250. Reasonable ticket prices. Plenty of room to walk around and drop tickets. Very nice prizes. Well organized and relaxed. Excellent callers. This one is a must go to and I will definitely go back next year. Can't say enough about what a great job they did.
KathyH said…
I also have to give Michael's Miracles kudos for putting on one of the best tricky trays that I have ever been to.

Their baskets were beautiful but not only that, they were chock full of great prizes. They had a wide variety of items, something for everyone.

Good food, very nice décor, lots and lots of extras. They did a really great job.
KathyH said…
And if you are looking to go to another great tricky tray, I can highly recommend the Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter on at the Manville VFW on May 4th.

We have a lot of great prizes and still getting more. We have hot appetizers and desserts.

Prices are very reasonable, we haven't raised them in two years. And we sell sheets of tickets, not single tickets for the first three levels of baskets.

We only do our tricky tray every other year so don't miss out. We are almost sold out, but still have tickets left. We have sold out every other time.

If you have any questions feel free to post or call me, the number in the ad.

Hope to see you on May 4th.
KathyH
Anonymous said…
The Franklin Women's Club is having a TT 3/22 at the Franklin HS. Have any of you been to this one before and how was it?
Anonymous said…
Someone was talking about the ross street school tricky tray. i didnt see it on the websight> does anyone know if that one happened? or anything on it>
Anonymous said…
I went to the Franklin Women's Club 2 years ago and it was ok. Pretty crowded but set up wasn't too bad. Lots of local restaurant, gym, etc. prizes. I didn't win anything, maybe that is why I didn't think it was that great! I didn't go last year but I remember reading on this blog that it wasn't very good last year. I will have to go back and look for the post.
Anonymous said…
I went to the Franklin Women's Club 2 years ago and it was ok. Pretty crowded but set up wasn't too bad. Lots of local restaurant, gym, etc. prizes. I didn't win anything, maybe that is why I didn't think it was that great! I didn't go last year but I remember reading on this blog that it wasn't very good last year. I will have to go back and look for the post.
Anonymous said…
I went to the Franklin Women's Club 2 years ago and it was ok. Pretty crowded but set up wasn't too bad. Lots of local restaurant, gym, etc. prizes. I didn't win anything, maybe that is why I didn't think it was that great! I didn't go last year but I remember reading on this blog that it wasn't very good last year. I will have to go back and look for the post.
Anonymous said…
If you could find that post and repost it that would be great. I'm going and already have tickets but it's nice to know what I'm in for.
KathyH said…
If you are thinking of going to the Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter tricky tray on May 4th better get your tickets soon. We only have about 50 left. I can promise you that it will be a very good tricky tray. Don't miss out.
KathyH said…
Regarding the Friends tricky tray on May 4th, we now also have an ipad as one of our grand prizes.

Speaking of prizes, what kind of things do you like to win. I'm just curious. We have a very wide mix at our TT.

What I like are restaurant gift cards, bottles of booze, trips and hotel stays. Curious what are your favorite things to win.
KathyH
KathyH said…
As of 5:00 today the Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter tricky tray is officially sold out. If you would like to be put on our wait list please send and email with your name, number of tickets, contact phone number and email address to somersetregional@aol.com.
Thank you to everyone who already bought tickets.
KathyH
Amber N. said…
Two cents... & some questions...
About a month ago I attended a "casino night/tricky tray" in a neighboring town. Cost $50 to get in with food and drinks included. I was apprehensive to go, as I am NOT a casino gambler, but thought I would give it a try. Turned out to be a lot of fun! I was shocked to be honest, it cost a lot (more than I have EVER spent to attend one of these events), and the prizes were ok at best - however staff was great and dealers were hilarious!
So that led me to try another "casino night/tricky tray" happening in my town. It is @ St Raphael's School (last years #1) in Hamilton NJ. I did buy 2 tix - again $50 each - with food, alcohol, and chips included. I talked to the woman running it and she said they needed to try something new. She also said that the prizes are going to be worth a lot more than the ones auctioned last year (they were great last year - I was there). It is quite expensive, in my opinion, but I am hoping it will be as fun as the one l went to a few weeks ago. They are supposedly using the same gambling company as the other event that I recently attended (who were very entertaining and understanding to my gambling ignorance - they really took the time to explain the rules and were patient with my questions)...
Anyway, I really hope it is as fun as I anticipate - really looking forward to seeing all of their great prizes again. Are any one of my fellow tricky traders attending this event? Does anyone have any additional info on the new program or insider info on the prizes? Also, just curious as to thoughts on these kinds of things. I am a die-hard tricky-trayer but that other event was so fun I just couldn't pass this event up... Don't disappoint ladies (& men if you are on their committee)!!!!!
Anonymous said…
I'm just curious, do they have a lot of prizes at one of the casino night events? Are they baskets like at a tricky tray? How do you win?

I've always been hesitant to go to one because they are expensive and I think I'd just rather a tricky tray where they have 300 or so baskets.
Anonymous said…
Some love casino nights, many don't because it turns out more expensive than what they expected. Those who enjoyed the games needed to purchase more and more chips to keep playing. A few lucky winners ended up with the lions share of tickets and won most of the prizes. There were a number of people who ate their dinner and sat in the back with their original chips waiting patiently for hours until they could cash the chips in for a small amount of tt tickets.
Anonymous said…
Only 25 tickets left for Animal Rescue Force's tricky tray this Saturday, April 6, at East Brunswick High School! We have over 400 great gifts, including an iPad and 46 inch TV. Call 732 257 7559 for info. Have fun and help the animals of central Jersey!
Anonymous said…
Those attending a casino night should ask how many trays they will have at the end of the evening. Some may have 200 while others only have 10 to 20 really nice baskets. As noted before, you only get a small amount of gambling money with your entrance fee which will not buy very many tt tickets. If you apply yourself and win at the casino games which is the main attraction, then you could end up with more chances to win. But do ask just how many trays there will be.
Anonymous said…
The Animal Rescue Force Tricky Tray on Saturday, April 6, in East Brunswick, is SOLD OUT! Thanks to everyone who purchased advance tickets, and hopefully we'll see anyone who was shut out next year!
Anonymous said…
Went to a small event on FRI night and the conversation around our seats often came back to how annoying one winner was. Just wondering if other tt folk find certain people attending an event can just suck the fun out of attending. And yes, we all know that there can be a considerable amount of money invested in tickets that trigger all those annoying wins.
Anonymous said…
I do think that people get jealous when they are sitting there, winning nothing, and someone at another table is winning basket after basket. Hey, I'll admit I get jealous a bit.

Sometimes all the winning is due to a lot of luck but lots of times it is because they buy a boatload of tickets.

While I'm waiting for number calling to start I like to wander the halls and look at all the tables. One, I'm nosy and like to see the fabulous spreads that people bring to eat. And two I'm always curious how many tickets people buy.

If a tricky tray has great baskets I too will spend a lot of money. If the baskets are not great, I'll maybe buy just one value pack.

These are fundraisers so the people running the event love those big spenders.

The losers at the other tables not as much, but nothing you can do except up your odds and buy more tickets.

What really makes me mad, is when I spend a bucket of money and walk out with zip.

But hey, I've had a night out with friends, I've had a good time, and hopefully the fundraiser was a huge success for those running it.
KathyH said…
Thanks for all the info on casino nights. I think for now I will stick with your basic tricky tray. One, I don't like casino type games and two, I like tts as you have a lot of chances to win. Plus seems like casino nights start out being more expensive.
Anonymous said…
It's not fair to say complainers must be losers at an event. just because you win a prize or even three doesn't mean you can't be upset that other prizes are being awarded to marked bent tickets or that the workers are the only ones who have sheets of a certain color that seem to win a lot.

Anonymous said…
what does everyone think about when they start the TT and the announcer says ok, we will call the number 3 times, if there is no answer a new number will be called... but then proceds to call it 4-5 times, says ok new number and then finally the person raises their hand. i think that once they say new number, that should be it. it bothers me soooo much!

i know people sometimes by alot of tickets, because i do, but at least keep them in order so you sorta know if its you or not.

anyway, once they say new number, it needs to be a new number... that really ticks me off.
Anonymous said…
it is so ridiculous when they do that. why say it or print it if you are not going to do it. I went to 1 last week that put the prize aside because no one came forward, after they called the number 5 times. not sure who they were saving it for:)
Anonymous said…
what are peoples thoughts about putting a seal on the tickets people keep? this way when you check the number you also check for the seal.
Anonymous said…
I agree, call a number 3 or 4 times then draw a new one and honor that number.

If I were a person who had the number they were calling and missed it and didn't realize that they had called my number until a new one was called I just say to myself I'm an idiot for not paying attention. I wouldn't insist on them giving me the basket because it was my fault I missed it.
Anonymous said…
i think adding a seal or something would be costly or time consuming... i never thought to bring my own tickets, first time i ever heard that was on this board. also, sometimes they have kids running hte prizes and they bearly check the numbers.

has anyone experianced someone bringing thier own tickets?
Anonymous said…
i think the event organizers dont want people to get mad if they give the prize away. if you were talking then its your fault, if you buy to many tickets you cant keep track of them, its also part your fault. its good that people buy alot of tickets, but i have seen people with so many that they cant handle the amount.
Does anyone have any contact info for the saint james tricky tray in woodbrige? it is going to be on may 10th and i want to get my tickets now since they always sell out, but not sure how to contact them
Anonymous said…
Kids are not allowed to be runners or sell tickets for tricky trays in NJ.

I have never encountered people bringing their own tickets but I guess it would be easy. There are few colors.
Anonymous said…
I have read that people have said that there have been cheaters at tricky trays. They go in, see the color tickets, go out to their car and get same color. I've not seen anything like that but does cause you to worry when running an event.

That is why it is important to try to keep the tickets numbers in sequence. It would make it quite obvious if all the tickets you sell start 054 and you call one that starts with 098 or 352.

Seriously, I run a tricky tray and if that does happen, I will not hesitate to call the police and have the person escorted out of the hall. But not before I get their name and a photo so I can warn other people.

Everyone works too hard putting these things together. Plus these are fundraisers, pretty crummy to steal from a charity.

most of the tricky trays i go to have kids as runners... sometimes the doors say kids are aloud and they ask for helpers... or other times its the helpers kids doing it. Most of them are very good, but i still worry about dropped tickets or broken prizes.

also, i seem to notice that there is always 2 or more series of numbers used. guess they are just using up old rolls... i hate it, there is no excitment when my number starts with 111 and they start calling a number 999 or whatever. but thats just me. i also think, did taht person bring thier own?

it is the lowest thing ever to steal from a fundraiser and im with who ever said they will call the cops... let me know when your fundraiser is, ill be there to take the photo for you.
KathyH said…
We've used some kids as runners in the past, but older kids, 16 and up.

We are bunch of old ladies, okay, some of us not that old but seriously, when you have over 330 baskets plus door prizes to deliver to winners we need some younger legs to help us out. Still I do try to look for adults first before recruiting any younger kids.

Some of our baskets are heavy, and many are big. So that is why nice to have a couple of men to help too.

I'm putting the tickets together for our TT and trying like heck to make sure they all start at least with the same three first digits. Because I'm with you on that, you sit there and look at your tickets and they call a totally different sequence you are like "crud". I do like a little suspense.

And I am very serious about calling out a cheater. We run our tricky tray with honesty and integrity and I expect the same from people who are trying to win.

Plus do not try to steal for the animals, our cause, that is just low.
Anonymous said…
I'm hosting our schools very first TT and I have a question to everyone. We have 2 gyms, right across the hall from eachother. I was thinking of displaying the baskets in one gym and in the other is where I will call the numbers which I will also have the tables/chairs & food. What are your opinions of using 2 rooms so there is more room.
Anonymous said…
I went to a school TT with the exact same setup. The prizes were in one room and people sat in the cafeteria. It worked out very nicely.
i have been to many like that. schools ones, ones at hotels, one the prizes were in the hallways of the school while the tables are in the gym.

i think the most inportnant thing is not were they are, just that there is room for people to move around easily, view the baskets without crawling on the floor and drop tickets without shoving people out of the way

as long as there are "watchers" of the baskets, you should be fine.
KathyH said…
I too have been to many tricky trays where the baskets are in one part of the building and ticket calling in another. In fact most are like that as there are very few places with rooms big enough for all the people and the baskets.

You'll be fine.
KathyH
Anonymous said…
Went to St. Michael's tricky tray last night @ Zeris Inn Mountain Lakes. Nice prizes but not nearly enough for the amount of attendees. When you have close to 300 people you need to have more than 130 (or so) 1st level baskets to really make it worth going. Instead of selling the little boxes for I believe it was $10, they should have put the $$ towards more basket prizes. Food was good & good friends.
KathyH said…
Our rule of thumb when doing our tricky tray is to have as many prizes, baskets and door prizes, as you have attendees.

In fact before going to any other TT I always contact the people and ask how many tickets they sold and how many baskets they have. If far less baskets than people, I don't go.

Of course if all the baskets are crappy or meager or a single gift card, that is not great either.
KathyH said…
Plus the other thing I hate is when they only have sheets of tickets for level one and all the rest or single roll tickets.

I can see the single for grand prizes but not your other levels.

I will spend far less money when they do that.

And I will never go back to it again.

In fact that is another question I ask before even signing up to attend.
Anonymous said…
When you have baskets in one room and attendees sit in another room - please make sure that you have workers watching the baskets and monitoring that no one is monkeying with the tickets. There are unethical attendees who move tickets out of the containers they want to win into containers of prizes they aren't interested in. And then prizes have simply gone missing when no one workers are paying attention.
KathyH said…
I cannot believe that that many people cheat at all these tricky trays.

I've said it before, it would seriously piss me off to catch anyone cheating.

You just don't do that.

Anonymous said…
does anyone have a way to contact the St. Cecilia TT people for tonite's event? The phone line is still reporting religious activities from back in March, and e-mail is not producing any response. It looks like the school has been shut down (google efforts), but I dont want to take a long ride to find out it is not happening. Thx for your feedback.
Anonymous said…
I recently attended a TT for St. Thomas at the Regency in Clifton, and it is so painful when callers do not understand how to speak into a microphone! Enthusiastic calling translates into shrieking...headaches galore really reduce the fun of supporting your events. Also, if the stated rule is to just call a number 3 times, stick to it! More than once calling stalled out as they pleaded with people to look at their tickets. It's amazing how attentive people get after they realize their lack of focus just caused them to miss winning a prize. And, there is NO Reason for anyone to have to read through the gift descriptions prior to picking a ticket...Just call the numbers clearly, and your guests will read the program themselves! This was a large experienced event, and I still cannot believe they did not put each gift's tickets in a separate container and shake them up prior to calling. Note to organizers: Putting your hand into the original bucket and swishing it about does not constitute shaking them up and giving everyone an equal chance to win. There were hundreds of people there, and lots of tickets in each bucket; it is not smart to offend those who came to support you...people will think twice before coming to your TT next year. Lastly, I actually was in line behind a woman who crumbled EVERY ticket before she put them into the buckets. Several of us pointed out to the organizers that there were SO MANY altered tickets in the buckets, and that calling any of them constituted cheating. Much to the organizers' credit, bent tickets were not called, and that woman just won once...yeah, we perennial TT people were watching! Let's get the fun back into these events...it's starting to become so disappointing when we see wrongs being done, and organizers not doing the right thing on behalf of their guests.
Anonymous said…
just spoke to someone at 201-991-1116....there is no problem..event is still on
KathyH said…
I don't think I've ever been to a TT where they pull tickets right from the bucket. Most dump into a bowl. At ours we dump into one bowl, mix, then dump into a second bowl. And our bowls are clear too so people can see what is going on. We really try to mix them up but you'll still have people out in the audience yelling "mix 'em up".

Anonymous said…
Hi all, Big Brother Big Sisters of Hunterdon / Somerset & Warren counties have had their TT in September for many years. This year we are thinking of moving it to October - Can anyone give me any feedback on hosting a TT in October - I can't think of anything that would be different except maybe the weather - Any comments would be very much appreciated - Wendy
Anonymous said…
I don't think it would make any difference if you move your TT to October. Only a rare severe weather event (like that one year when we had snow Halloween weekend) would hinder it.
Anonymous said…
OCT vs SEP events: You are better off in SEP!
How many of your regular supporters would choose you over their church, their childrens' sport or school fundraisers?
When you reschedule to OCT, you have pushed into a much heavier scheduled part of the tt season. Many organizations may have held their own event for years, but they don't have a clue about other events held in their area during the year. As a rule the bulk of the school events are held OCT-NOV and MAR-MAY. Winter holidays, spring break, and the 'snow season' are typically avoided. Most committees avoid Sep as the volunteers are focused on getting kids ready for and settled into the new schoolyear. They don't have enough volunteers with the extra time to pull an event together then.
Those events who schedule outside of the heat of season, do much better. You have been pulling off an event when tt goers are searching for events to go to. If at all possible, stick to September! Or shift to AUG when little or nothing is happening.
Anonymous said…
Thanks for your imput on moving our TT into October in 2013. We are changing this year due to our venue doing renovations - It will be only for 1 year and August would be way to early for us. I guess we will just go for it & hope for the best (ie good weather & supporters coming out). Thanks again for the comments, they gave us something to think about. Wendy

Anonymous said…
advertise the shift to OCT early. If you presell tickets you may lock some people in before other events get posted.
When you shift dates, you never know just what complications pop up.
KathyH said…
The main thing you want to try to figure out is if there are any big TTs the date you plan to have yours.

We made a mistake with ours this year and it is the same night as the Sgt. Doltz TT which has one best TT of the year many times.

We tried to change the date after we realized but couldn't get another date at the hall.

For us it doesn't matter that much as we always sell out. This year sold out in about 6 weeks and I had well over 50 people on our wait list.

If you have a really good tricky tray, people will come to it no matter the date.

If it is just so so, which too many of them are, then people may opt to go to other ones.

The key really is to have prizes worth winning. If you have fabulous baskets, you will sell out no matter what date you choose.
Anonymous said…
The discussion on when to time an event, is interesting. There are small groups that pull in hundreds of random attendees based on their reputation and the timing. A high school has 400-600 students in the graduating class with a community of parents and teachers plus the PTA who are very much in support of project graduation. That high school needs far fewer random attendees to fill their seats at the event. They will suffer far less from people shopping around for the best event to attend.
Anonymous said…
Putting together my first TT. What are some theme baskets that you all look for in a good TT?
Anonymous said…
Just got home from fosras tricky tray in Manville - another spectacular tricky tray fom this great organization. Reasonable prices, hot buffet, great baskets, fast caller - always a great fundraiser for the animals :-). Can't wait for the next one.
Anonymous said…
Ditto on the FOSRAS TT in Manville. It was great!
Anonymous said…
Attended St. Martin's Episcopal Church last night and had a great time! Well done for their first tricky tray. Fair prices, yummy treats, bountiful baskets, and efficient caller. Out a little before 9. Hope you make it an annual event!
Tara said…
Hello fellow Tricky Trayers!

Give & Go Inc.'s 3rd Annual Tricky Tray is just around the corner on June 9th. We sold out last year and had great success thanks to many of you!

The prizes are rolling in and so far we are pleased to announce a round of golf for 3 at Trump National, Bedminster, vacation stays, overnight stays, fine jewelry, Kindle Fire and much more!

Our event is located in Whippany, at the intersection of Route 287 and 10. Please visit our ad here and on facebook for more information.

Bring a friend and your luck, enjoy lunch and have some great fun! Your support last year helped ten area student athletes obtain collegiate scholarships! Come out on June 9th to see where these hardworking kids are headed in the fall. Thank you!
Anonymous said…
Curious, what kind of vacation stays and overnight stays do you have as prizes? Curious, as I might want to attend.
Tara said…
Please email me at ringcitytrickytray@gmail.com and I would be happy to send you further details.

Thank you!
KathyH said…
I like to send a big thank you to everyone who attended the Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter (FOSRAS) tricky tray this past Saturday, May 4th.

You helped make our event a huge success and the animals at the shelter will benefit greatly.

Not to pat ourselves on the back but I do think we put on a very good tricky tray.

I think our baskets are some of the best.

Also for your $15 admission you get a lot, hot food, dessert, coffee, yogurt, Herr's chips and a level one ticket.

We always welcome compliments LOL, but also appreciate constructive criticism and comments.

If there is anything we can to make our next tricky tray even better we welcome the suggestions.

We only hold our TT every other year so we have time to gather enough donations to make our baskets fabulous.

So see you in 2015!

Thank you again for your support. You helped make our TT a great success.
KathyH
Anonymous said…
Tara - please share the details here on the blog. That way others won't also have to contact you. Normally a question posted by one is shared by many, many other tt goers
Anonymous said…
Hi everyone,

Does any one know when the next Animal Friendly TT is? I only go to Animal Friendly ones. They always need support.

I was on vacation when the Hudson County Animal League had their's last month. I heard it was good. Did any body go?

Went to one in Jersey City last week -at the Moose hall, it was nice Food was very good & gifts good too. PAWS had one and it was very good.

Thanks.
Tara said…
Hello All,

We had a nice week of gift giving!
Give & Go Inc's Tricky Tray on June 9th is heating up with great prizes. Many of you are interested in the trips..

We have 6 trips that are accommodations only, 4 to the Caribbean, 1 to Panama and 1 to British Virgin Islands.

We have a Disney trip (accommodations likely to be at Saratoga Springs or Old Key West) 4 days, 3 nights, round trip airfare for 4 from NYC Metro area to Orlando and 4 hopper passes!

Overnights stays:
We had a generous family donate an overnight stay at the beautiful French Quarters in Midtown Manhattan. We also have Westminster Hotel Livingston, Colonial Inn, Smithville and Hamilton Park Hotel, Florham Park.

Some other amazing items that came in: 3 Milly leather handbags, beautiful fine jewelry, and more!

We sold out last year and all had a great time!

Anonymous said…
Attended the Ladies Patriot soccer Blairstown event last night -
The prizes were varied and the pricing was very reasonable. The number of people attending was a great match to number of prizes.

that said, please could the committee organize calling the prizes more efficiently? have a second bowl so we don't have to wait so long between prizes. And note to announcer - come on, man up and finish the calling without taking a break. If you are worried about the kids, then only have half the girls holding prizes on stage waiting for numbers to be drawn. The other half can certainly sit down and enjoy a soda instead of standing for half an hour waiting in line on the stage waiting for the ticket to be drawn. Didn't see anyone running in to buy more tickets - we just wanted to finish and go home.

Smaller events should take less time than larger events. It's not like you are putting on a show for your supporters.
Anonymous said…
The PTO of Robert Morris School in South Bound Brook is hosting their first Tricky Tray on June 7th at 7pm. Go to rmschool.com to download forms and for more information.
Anonymous said…
Went to the Old Bridge HS PTSA TT tonight in Matawan. Had to be one of the worse ones I have been to. Since it was there first one, here are some tips. Don't have people write table numbers on the back of tickets. It served no purpose but to annoy others not at the table who won. Much better to call the numbers people like hearing their numbers called and yell when they win. It only works if there are so many prizes that everyone writes their table number and baskets are delivered to the table without announcing anything. There was also over 400 people and hardly any prizes. The caller took too long calling the numbers both tables and ticket numbers and had to make a commentary for each prize. Not necessary, we can see the prize and who donated it right on the program. He also mixed up the order of the prizes on several occasions and also called the listed prize number as a table who won on more than three occasions. Very disappointed in the way the event was run. Not a lot of variety of prizes. Most prizes were repeated a few baskets down. Not to mention they started 45 minutes late and took a break in between levels which really wasn't necessary based on the amount of prizes.
Anonymous said…
It would be soooo great if callers test the mic before calling. Last nite at a TT in Scotch Plains, she screamed repeatedly and then said please keep quiet because people couldn't hear her. Well, here's the trick...just call the numbers, and the audience will get quiet, because they do not want to miss their numbers. Secondly, although she said she'd call a number 3 times and move along, how many times did they NOT do that...at one point I thought there was going to be a riot when the gift in question was a restaurant GC display, i.e. real value! I don't know about anyone else, but sometimes I wonder if the good ol' days of TT are over. If I see another bent ticket, I think I'll start screaming myself.
Anonymous said…
Nice prizes at the ARC of Hunterdon Tricky Tray. Just some constructive feedback: there weren't enough prizes for the number of attendees. I know it was advertsed as a Coach/Longaberger event, but it would have been fine to have some prizes that didn't include one of those items. That way there could have been twice as many prizes. Also, some of the combos didn't interest me like a nice coach bag combined with toys or a longaberger combined with sports items.
Anonymous said…
what are everyone's thoughts on the amount of prizes per people attending? 1 prize per person?
KathyH said…
At our tricky tray we always have at least as many prizes, that is baskets and door prizes, as people attending.

In fact when we were putting our TT together this year, we cut off ticket sales a bit early as we weren't sure we'd have enough donations to make enough baskets.

We did wind up with enough donations. We had 343 baskets, 31 door prizes and had 347 people in attendance.

I would never attend a TT that has only half as many baskets as attendees. Before buying tickets these days I always ask the number of people and the number of baskets.

KathyH
Anonymous said…
A few prizes that will be available at the 1st Robert Morris School PTO Tricky Tray in South Bound Brook on June 7th are...

Romantic Pocono Getaway for 2, 3day/2night stay at Renaissance Aruba Beach Resort & Casino, 2night stay at The Suits at Hershey, show tickets, various theme park passes, Disney Hopper passes, Three night stay at Atlantis Caino Resort & Spa in Reno, Nevada, American Girl Doll, Autographed sports memorabilia, grill, camping equipment, gift cards, Keurig, designer hand bags, golf foursome and LOTS MORE !

Limited seating so reserve your table now.

www.rmschool.com to download forms.
Anonymous said…
the last several events I attended did not have doorprizes and ... noone complained. Who wants to win a small value doorprize instead of a real prize that they chose to put tickets in for. And no one wants to sit for any length of time while these nonprizes are drawn. If you have really fantastic doorprizes ... then why don't you just put them out as trays we can drop tickets in if we want to.
Anonymous said…
Totally agree with the above post. Door prizes are really just time killers and usually not that great. Or just have one big one so the door prize ticket can be used.
Tara said…
Hello All,

June 9th is just around the corner and we do have fantastic prizes (if I may say so myself!) I hear all of your comments and we promise no bent tickets, numbers read three times only, and move it along! We also will certainly have one prize for every admission ticket sold! Give & Go Inc's Tricky Tray is Sunday, June 9th 1-5Visit our facebook page for a preview of a few prizes. See our post here on trickytray.com :) Please come out and support young women and men working to obtain collegiate scholarships. Our 2013 graduates are headed to MIT, Villanova, Princeton, St. John's and many, many more!
Anonymous said…
About how many prizes will you have at Robert Morris tricky tray?
Anonymous said…
With regards to the prizes for Robert Morris School, we have a little over 150 prizes wrapped to date and plenty more to do.

This is our first one and I am VERY pleased with the generaous donations.
Anonymous said…
How many people are you expecting at Robert Morris?
Anonymous said…
We are limited to aprox 250 guests
KathyH said…
I get what everyone feels about door prizes. Ours were pretty decent, Ferrero rocher chocolates or lotions and stuff with at least 3 restaurant or fast food coupons included. What happens with us is that we get so many last minute things, and the baskets and programs are done, we use that last minute stuff or the stuff that just didn't work for a basket for the door prizes.
KathyH
Anonymous said…
Kathy - consider bundling that 'stuff' and putting out Mystery boxes. Events have mystery boxes of considerable value made up of last minute ... and also items that were not large enough to be a tray by themselves. If people want a 'mystery' they will but in their tickets. It's a great deal and people know they are gambling. Meanwhile you aren't taking the time to draw and run dozens of small doorprizes.
And those who insist on doing doorprizes ... finish calling all your doorprizes on the regular tray level. People who only have tickets on that level get up and leave. And we've all sat thru the painful drawing of doorprizes right up to the 5o/50 drawing where people have left. But the announcer can't understand why no one is claiming a door prize ticket and keeps recalling the number. Sorry - I'm also not in favor of doorprizes. What you think is great and nice, still they are going to people who had no choice and probably do not want them. Murphy's law and all, the wrong person will win the prize and it will not make anyone's day.
Anonymous said…
Speaking of door prizes, I know some aren't great but then you do get some good ones too. What's the best doorprize you've ever seen/won? At a firehouse TT once I won this really heavy nice mug with the firehouse logo on it. I really like the mug.
Anonymous said…
I am happy to announce that the Robert Morris Tricky Tray will have over 200 baskets. We are limited to aprox 250 seats, so reserve your seats now.

rmschool.com to download order form.

Anonymous said…
Give & Go, Inc. added another great prize: two night stay at a Hershey villa! June 9th is our event and we have approximately 200 prizes and anticipate 200 guests. We hope you are one of them! ringcitytrickytray@gmail.com for more info.
Anonymous said…
I need everyone's help!!!
our group wanted to do a tricky tray in December--would Friday the 13th be to close to the holidays(or bad luck) or a day during the week during the first week of December be better?
Thanks
Anonymous said…
There is very little competition with other events in DEC. If you id your location, you might get specific info on potential conflicts. for example - the Chester HS freshman class traditionally sponsors an event the first week in DEC.
Personally I would be enticed to attend hoping to win a gift or two for the holidays.
Anonymous said…
Still not sure what to do on June 9th? Give & Go Inc. added membership to Park Ave Club, 2 nights at Atlantis in Reno, NV. MORE than 200 prizes... estimating 200 guests. OH, and now we have hot food too!
Anonymous said…
Do we need to make reservations for give and go?
Anonymous said…
For Give & Go, please email ringcitytrickytray@gmail.com... Newest and probably coolest prize - fully loaded iPod with more than 15,000 songs!
Anonymous said…
This is the last push for Give & Go, Inc which will be held this Sunday, June 9th.

We have reached 200 guests and we will not oversell. We have over 200 prizes and they keep rolling in. 50/50 - Lottery Apron - Bake Sale and a hot entrée

Should you want to attend, please call or text me at 917-885-9592.
Thank you!
Anonymous said…
What I don't understand is why do people like to create traffic jams at tricky trays? They stand and look at gifts forever and, most annoying of all, they don't rip up their tickets beforehand; they stand if front of the gifts and slowly rip tickets off one by one. Big tricky tray peeve!
Anonymous said…
We had the misfortune of standing behind an older lady who documented how many tickets she dropped into each prize. Seriously, she'd examine the prize carefully, then drop her choice of tickets,then she pulled out the program and would slowly and carefully note whether she dropped in 1 2 or 3 tickets. Someone laughed and said she might sue if she didn't win those prizes she invested 3 whole tickets into winning.
Maybe she was new to the process, but she certainly was oblivious to the number of people backed up behind her. so there's another tricky tray peeve against rude behaviour in crowded events. No - it doesn't have to be crowded for either this or slow methodical ripping of tickes. Crease them and they tear not only neatly but also very quickly!
Anonymous said…
It's a game of luck, period. And, how long do people have to stand and look at an item while the line backs up behind them. Scan it 30 seconds and decide if you like the item, drop tickets in quickly and move on.
Anonymous said…
Give & Go, Inc tt today was phenomenal. great baskets and prizes, very well organized fantastic presentation!
Anonymous said…
i noticed that the TT that have the program have more of a line jam then the ones that dont. Dont get me wrong, i love the program, but everytime people are slowing up the line looking at what is in the basket, then the actual basket. while it does come in handy for the times your not sure of whats in it, it slows the line considerbly!


also, if everyone has the program in front of you, then the caller does NOT need to say, ok basket 1 is called blah blah blah and it has blah blah blah in it. we can read!
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said…
2 things....

1. had anyone been to a place that has used or obviously stored in someones house for a while and the package is gross gifts?

2. no microphone

3. says absolutly no kids, yet there are kids there (not the students who are runners, volunteers kids or people who got special permission)

i went to one last night, and alot of the gifts were kinda icky. which when i saw the adult xxx basket, i was wondering thier condition also (was in a box). then it started with no microphone, some guy was yelling the numbers.
Anonymous said…
I love the programs. I used to walk around with it when dropping tickets to (quickly) circle items I put tickets on. I stopped doing this and took the lead of a friend who drops tickets, forgets about it, then gets a nice surprise if she wins something. Luckily the TTs I've been to the caller just announces the basket # corresponding with the program and then reads the winning number.

As to "icky" gifts.....a lot of items at tricky trays are donated and I guess it's hard to control donated items. I won a seemingly new in box rotisserie oven once. Brought it home, opened it and saw an instructional VHS tape in it! That was my first clue of the age. This oven was at least 10 years old. Nevertheless, everything was in it's original packaging and never touched. The box was opened and re-taped, like someone just took a peek and decided they didn't want it.
Anonymous said…
To all that came out to the Give & Go TT, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your huge part in making it a success! I met, spoke with, and emailed so many lovely people and I look forward to doing it again next year. Sincerely, Tara
Anonymous said…
Programs are excellent - the experienced committees list all their donors and ask the crowd to please support the gracious sponsors who donated and made their event possible. At which point no name is called out as the donor of a prize and no listing of contents in each basket. Who cares what is in the basket at that point? Just read the number so the actual winner can quickly claim their prize.
Microphones are not necessary if people will shut up and listen! And the announcer should be aware that the more they talk, the more the crowd will talk while they are talking. The announcers that focus on reading numbers keeps the crowd quiet and paying attention to their numbers. If the crowd is drinking at those events that allow byob - then giving a prize to a redraw after no one claims after 3 readings is an effective method of quieting down the uproar. Way too many announcers call the number 3 times and then announce ... 'I'm going to read the number 3 X and then we will redraw!' At that point it will be read 6X and when the idiot finally pays attention and raises the hand on the 6th reading you are very close to having the winner attacked by an angry crowd when the prize should of gone to a redraw ... a winner who was paying attention and not holding up the process.
Kids are seldom an issue at events. Usually the committee and announcer are the source of wasted time, and allowing cheating to go on.
Anonymous said…
Wow, no one's commented on this sit since mid June? I am looking forward to the Fall TTs, and hope there will be more listed. Are there any great ones coming up, we shouldn't miss?
Anonymous said…
I've seen some events that seem to be pulled together quickly. This raises concerns that is it not properly credentialed. At least in NJ, the event needs to be sponsored by a non profit and the org needs a permit from the town--which can take a couple months to get depending on the town....in the case of a fund raiser for an individual who is sick and....it is often easier to get a org such as Elks or Lions club to sponsor the event under there 501c3.
Anonymous said…
Here's to a safe and enjoyable long weekend. Does Anyone know if Netcong FD is having their event this year? Normally it is second weekend in Sept
Anonymous said…
Tricky Tray on Sept 18th at Nanina's In the Park Catering Hall in Belleville, NJ. 7:00pm

Tickets: $75 person
Includes: dinner (buffet), beer/wine & 10 tricky tray tickets

Sponsored by the Cheer Me Up Foundation.

Proceeds are going to Kaylee Smith and her family--18 month old currently battling stage 3 liver cancer.
Anonymous said…
what's the info on the Kaylee Smith event at Nanina's?
Anonymous said…
Has anyone ever attended the Plainfield Area Humane Society tricky tray and could provide feedback? Wondering how their tickets/no. calling will work. Instead of selling actual sheets of tickets like most places do they are selling groups of tickets, i.e. 15 tickets for $5 on tier 1.
Anonymous said…
Netcong FD is now listed for 10/12. they have a 9pm start time on a SAT which is really late even for a weekday event. could that be an error?
Mr. Tricky Tray said…
It has come to my attention that there was an error in the Open Arms Gift Auction Listing on the TrickyTray.com. The event takes place on October 7, 2013. The Location should be the Ramada Inn of Toms River, Rts. 9 & 70 in Toms River. NOT BONE FISH GRILLE IN PARAMUS.

I have corrected and I apologize for the error on my part. If you know anyone going, confirm with them the correct location.

Thanks
Mr. Tricky Tray
Anonymous said…
I really don't understand how, when there is a crowd of people waiting to drop tickets, people feel the need to clog up the line examining each and every gift as if it were a specimen under a microscope. You're not shopping for a house or car for crying out loud! 30 seconds is all it takes! Scan the gift, decide if you like it, drop tickets and move on! Then, I get annoyed when people get annoyed when someone politely says excuse me to drop in a few tickets on their second round. These people are not "cutting in"; cutting in is if they then decide to stand in line in front of you. If someone has already gone around once and they want to finish off their tickets and they know what they want who cares if they get in front of you for two seconds to drop in a few tickets. Not everyone has to stand and gawk at each and every gift. This is why I make sure not to go to crowded tricky trays!
Anonymous said…
Well Done Mine Hill PTA of Canfield Ave School. It is evident that many many hours went into your event. The prizes were excellent and oh so many of them. You should be voted the best tricky tray for 2013. KUDOS to you and your staff.
Anonymous said…
Had a great time @ the Mine Hill PTA tricky tray last night. I WON multiple times. WIll be putting this on my list to go next year! Well done.
Anonymous said…
Has anyone attended the Big Brothers, Big Sisters tricky tray prior years? Theirs is coming up on the 25th. Thoughts? Comments to help me decide would be most appreciated.
Anonymous said…
Are we missing some Breast Cancer Tricky trays? There used to be 2 different events up in sussex Co. And are there no events being held at Pope JohnPaul high school anymore?

Event organizers are seem to be pushing the admission charge higher and higher. We came willingly to support your fundraiser. It is extortion to require us to pay to get in and not get raffle tickets for that money. If you want people to donate, then ask for donations. If you want to run a raffle then sell us raffle tickets and forget about the donation we have to make to get in the door. And those events that have reduced ticket prices plus no admission charge for just their own people are really poisoning the well instead of building a reputation as a fair and fun event.
Anonymous said…
I came on here to see if there was any insight on fabulous upcomming raffles and i am really disappointed. All i see is complaint after complaint when you should be greatfull for being able to attend these tricky trays, with those crap prizes and those obnoxious kids. Be happy for what you have, for what you win and for the fun time you have doing it. Next time, put some tickets in for a cheese basket to go match with that whine
Anonymous said…
Can someone please explain to me the exact rule for number calling?

I recently went to a tricky tray that a number was called several times, along with a last chance calling. No one claimed it.

The announcer then said, ok new number. She drew a new number. Halfway through calling the new the person with the old number claimed the prize. They stopped calling the new number and it was given to the person with the old number.

I found it to be completely unfair. This was my first time at this event, and after that I left with a very sour taste in my mouth. I understood that once a new number was being called, the original number was void.
Anonymous said…
I'm not sure of any "official" rules but what I've commonly seen at events is that numbers are read three times and if the prize isn't claimed then a new number is drawn. This process is announced at the start of the tricky tray. At the TT you went to it was wrong for the organizers to give the prize to the original winner. People need to pay attention to their ticket numbers and maybe buy not so many tickets so that they can't keep track.
Anonymous said…
when the number has been announced 3X, effective announcers state they are going on to a new number and very visibly throw the first number in the trash. If a claim is attempted after that point, it is obvious there is nothing to verify the win with except the second number.
While the events are happy social occasions, participants who do not pay attention to their numbers should not be holding up the proceedings. Most crowds cheer when a prize is awarded to a second draw.
Anonymous said…
Went to the VFW Post 2290 tricky tray in Manville tonight. Great event! Nice prizes, delicious spaghetti dinner, yummy desserts. A great venue as well. Plenty of room for people to move around. Well done to all who organized the event!
Anonymous said…
The Manville VFW is great! Any tricky tray I've attended there has been nicely done.
Giving Network said…
For those who have emailed us about our annual tricky tray, we're having a different type of event this year, with just a few (10-15) baskets in our basket auction part of the evening. Just to change things up a bit, we're having a dinner dance fundraiser, and hope you'll attend!

Reserve your tickets now and prepare for a fabulous evening of dining and dancing!

You are cordially invited to the
Giving Network Charity Dinner Dance on
Saturday November 16
7pm till 11pm
Soriano’s at Parkside
141 Old York Road
Bridgewater, NJ 08807

Admission is $60 per person, or you may reserve a table for 8 people ($480), 9 people ($540), or 10 people ($600).

Please send checks to:
The Giving Network
45 North Gaston Ave
Somerville NJ 08876

Payment must be received by November 7. Please include an email address so we may send a confirmation, including a receipt & information on tax deductability.

There will also be opportunities to purchase “sponsorships” for Giving Network activities, a 50/50 raffle, and a basket auction.

The Giving Network is a local 501(c)3 charity that provides basic household items to the neediest members of our community. Giving Network is run entirely by volunteers.

Questions? Please email givingnetworktt@gmail.com , or leave us a message at (908) 866-1789.

Hope to see you in November! Thanks!
Anonymous said…
dear organizers, please suggest that attendees rip tickets at their table..not the prize tables--which blocks people......and ask people to go from low to high numbers...start anywhere...but work UP in numbers..so all traffic flows the same way....ie start at 1 and work toward 100 or start at 50....go up to 100..and then do 1 to 49.


it also helps if you have baggies available to hold tickets that are ripped.

and if you want to spend long time looking at an item...note it down..and come back later when the prize table is not crowded (just before calling starts)
Anonymous said…
Went to a tricky tray last night that was such a big disappointment. High prices, ho-hum prizes, and way too crowded. Long lines for the ticket drop and confusion about door prizes. And calling started an hour and fifteen minutes later than posted time due to the long lines. I certainly won't be looking for that one next year. And I even won something!
Anonymous said…
Where did you go/which organization? It's worth mentioning so that others can avoid it for next year.
Anonymous said…
Please remember that committees often change out and the next year a fantastic event will crash and burn while the crowded slow one will have learned and corrected the mistakes. Best course is to go with your heart keeping in mind what the cause is that your donations will support. And most important call the point of contact and ask questions. Ask questions and let people know what the issues were at previous events.
Unknown said…
I have to say I used to love attending tricky trays. Now it seems they are aimed at the wealthy and do not give the regular Joe a chance to compete fairly. Are they serious? $5 dollars and up for sheets,$5 for special tickets, each. I like to attend and know I can afford to have a chance in most items. And I do spend a lot but I sure don't want to if I am only able to put in for a few items etc. Do they not realize that wealthy people don't attend these in the norm and it is the rest of us the middle /lower income people who enjoy a nice prize which we couldn't of afforded otherwise? They wonder why no one is spending or coming?? The prizes get less and less, cheaper/ and yet they hike the fees up to ridiculous and have the nerve to charge a huge fee just to get in knowing once you are in it's too late to change your mind. It seems greedy to me, and the higher the prices throws up a red flag to me that says "we haven't much here, and what we have is not so great so we have to get you in outrageous fees to make any money". Lower the greedy pricing and let us all participate, you will have more people, and we will spend more when it's fair to us.
Anonymous said…
Just went to the St. John the Theologian Tricky Tray last night and before I rate it, here is how the event went off:

1. At the entrance table where you check-in, they were also selling the raffle ticket packages. This caused a huge crowd to form. Never ever sell raffle tickets at the entrance!! That's the first impression guests get. Last night all I heard was "we're never coming to this next year". (which I heard the entire night anyway)

2. The prizes were in the small entrance hall packed in so tight you couldn't see them. The crowds were 3 deep just to put tickets it. It took me 2 hours just to wait until there was room for us to get to the prize buckets. If there was ample room and no crowding people could put their tickets in and maybe buy more tickets. Don't you realize you could have put the prizes in the event room along the perimeter? There was also a stage, line up the mega prizes there so everyone can see them and keep buying more tickets.

3. The ratio of prizes to people was off. There was close to 400 people and under 200 prizes. A lot of people walked away with nothing after spending $100 on a ticket package. They will not be going next year.

4. The silent auction had awesome prizes like 2 super bowl tickets and trips. The bidding started WAY TOO HIGH!!!! The super bowl tickets had a starting bid of $12,000! Needless to say nobody bid on the stuff.

5. ALWAYS check the expiration date of ALL food and beverage products you put in the baskets. My friend won a basket with Margarita mix that expired 12/31/2008, the cake mix also expired in 2008. She will not be going next year either.

6. The calling and running of the prizes was very well orchestrated. This is where their experience showed.

7. It would have been nice, but not necessary, if they used ticket sheets instead of roll tickets, at least for the first level. This is personal preference and as a guest would have liked to keep track of one number not 35 unique numbers.

8. They served a light Greek Dinner which was very good!

9. All the volunteers were helpful and gracious when asked various questions.

10. The other thing, we had to pay for beverages like water ($1) and soda ($2) and after paying $20 to get in I think it should have been included. They did give us a little 6 ounce bottle of water each....not enough

I rate this event as a 3 on a scale of 1 to 10. Using the 10 points from above.

Our whole table of 10 which spent in excess of $1000 will NOT go to this next year. It's a shame too, because the people were exceptionally nice and they're hard work and effort really showed.
Anonymous said…
i went to a TT that included dinner with teh $25 ticket price. What they failed to mention was that it did not include drinks. They charges $1 for an 8 oz soda. Not cool. Dinner includes beverages. and most places with give you a 12 oz soda for a dollar. It just gives a bad impression to charge extra for drinks when people paid for dinner. Also, there were seats for 180 people and only about 145 prizes. Sure its for charity...but I am a charity case myself....I used to go to a bunch of TTs every year and spend freely, now I have to limit myself to 1 or 2 per year and not buy many extra tickets..only betting on things I really want.
Anonymous said…
I WENT TO ST.JOHN GRREK TRICKY TRAY 11/22/13, IT WAS GREAT A FRIDAY, BUT I THE EVENT WAS AWFUL, IT WAS A DEATH TRAP. I HAVE BEEN GOING FOR THE LAST 10 YEARS AND ALWAYS ENJOY IT. SOME MANY GIFT AND THE FOOD TO BUY WAS GREAT, THIS YEAR THE GIFTS AND FOOD WAS LESS TO BE DESIRED. WHY DID THEY HAVE A DJ,WAS A WASTE. THEY SHOULD GO BACK TO HAVING IT LIKE BEFORE WAS GREAT AND MANY GIFTS. BEFORE WAS A NIGHT THAT YOU WHAT'D TO GET OUT WITH FRIENDS AND HAVE A BLAST, THIS TIME YOU TOOK YOUR LIFE IN YOUR HANDS , THE PLACE WHERE THEY HAD THE GIFT WAS A TIGHT AS A CAN OF SARDINES, WILL NOT GO BACK IF IT NOT LIKE BEFORE, WHAT A SHAME.
Anonymous said…
Went to a tricky tray yesterday and I saw some bent tickets. I commented on it out loud. The guy next to me said what's wrong with that? I said that's a form of cheating and they won't pull them. He admitted it was his! And still felt there was nothing wrong with it and said they better pull them they're in there. Proceeded to continue bending all his tickets! I wanted to say "If you don't feel you're cheating why do you feel the need to bend those tickets"? But I kept quiet so as not to cause a scene.
Anonymous said…
To the person who posted the last comment: when I see bent tickets in buckets, I make it a point to ask who is running the event and I introduce myself to them. In a nice way, I let them know that there are people who are bending tickets, and that bent tickets are considered cheating among tricky tray attendees. I explain why bending is cheating and how it increases a person's chances to have their tickets drawn. On every occasion, I ask that they announce that bent tickets will not be drawn. Organizers know that TT.com is responsible for many people (who spend a considerable amount of money)attending their events. They want us to return, and so every one of them makes the announcement and assures me they will not pull out a bent ticket. Don't waste your time trying to reason with someone who deliberately knows they are cheating...go right to the organizers. It works.
Anonymous said…
Agreed as to going straight to the organizers about the bent tickets and also be sure to point the person out who is bending the tickets.
Anonymous said…
It's not so much pointing out who is bending tickets - they often will give a long kind of sob story how they thought it was ok. The important thing is to discuss with organizers how people can and will complain that they were in cahoots with the ticket benders ... that they felt for bent tickets to award their friends all the good prizes. I'm thrilled when cheaters bend their tickets - they have just disqualified themselves. Unless of course the organizers ignore the whole thing and not give any instructions to those drawing tickets . And someone going thru and unbending the bent tickets so everyone gets a chance does not make it even. Good organizers disqualify the cheaters.
Anonymous said…
I agree - go to the organizers and point out how bent tickets look like they are cheating - that their friends are bending tickets to let them feel which ticket to draw. So many have no idea that there are organizers who feel the committee has earned those nice prizes and should 'win' them in payment for all their work in putting the event together. Make a point that it can absolutely come back as complaints against the organization. Simply announce no prizes will be awarded to a bent or marked ticket and make sure that the people drawing disqualify and redraw a ticket if they end up with a bent one. You can easily avoid drawing a bent ticket as well as selecting one.
Edna said…
Michael's Miracles Tricky Tray is Feb 28th at the VFW in Manville. Tickets are going fast. Everyone will go home with something. Well organized, great atmosphere, reasonable prices. All for a great cause - Juvenile Diabetes - supporting diabetic children and their families.
KathyH said…
I went to the Michael's Miracles tricky tray last year and I can honestly say I was blown away. It was fabulous. I help run the Friends of Somerset Regional Animal Shelter tricky tray and I say ours if one of the best in the state but I'd say Michael's Miracles is right up there with ours.
Chris R. said…
Hi All,

The Hudson County Animal League is having a Tricky Tray next Saturday - January 25, Come one - Come all to help the Animals in our care. It is a MATINEE TRICKY TRAY - From 2PM to 5:30PM - Tickets are $12 plus a can or more of cat or kitten food and an item or more for the Food Bank. Come to the Heart of Jesus Polish National Catholic Church - 290 Ave. E at 23rd St. Bayonne. Admission includes a sheet of raffle tickets, Dessert, coffee/Tea/Soft Drinks and Goodies on the table. Contact Cheryl @ 201-332-7612, Maureen @ 201-471-7638, Chris @ 201-437-8732 or Lorma @ 201-437-7263. Lots of Nice Prizes. All proceeds go to the Animals. We have some beautiful cats and kittens waiting for a forever home. Until then we have Tricky Trays to support them. Hope to see you there. Thank you for your support.
Anonymous said…
Went to scared heart in lyndhurst tricky tray tonight never ever again there were sooooo many bent tickets in the bucket and when someone told the women running it about it and asked if those would be discredited she said NO can you believe they encourage bending ticket she claims this bent tickets have no advantage. I would have spent a lot more than the 20 I spent but once I heard this I wasn't planning to give them another time
Oh yeah also on their program it said if two people had the same ticket number then the next prize would not be called and the two people would each get a prize how can there be duplicate numbers unless someone brings their own tickets? Something is not on the up and up with this group
Anonymous said…
be prepared at TTs with info about how bent tickets are cheating either printed out or linked on your smart phone to show organizers....

and is there anything in the state regs that makes it illegal...so a mention of reporting them to the state board would change their attitude (especially if they failed to get a permit to begin with).
Anonymous said…
Attended a casino night this weekend at Clinton Inn. Lovely venue. However, only 1 bartender for a room full of people (about 200) and no water pitchers at the table.

Casino portion was fun, but "price" of raffle tickets was MUCH too high. $250 in "fun money" for ONE raffle ticket? There were also people folding tickets and when the numbers were pulled, they were dumped, but NOT mixed around at all. So anyone who put their tickets in later in the night, didn't have a chance of winning. 55 or so prizes for over 150 people... :( Not impressed!
Anonymous said…
I can't believe the price of admission to MANY of these events. $30,$40,$50,$75. What's it coming to? They are really beating themselves out of a lot of money with these admission prices. What don't they get? My group spends hundreds of dollars on tickets but we will not pay exorbitant admission prices. Since we do not pay that kind of admission they don't get many hundreds of dollars.
Mr. Tricky Tray said…
Best Tricky Tray 2013 - Vote

The start of a new year always means time to vote for Best Tricky Tray from the previous year. The link has been up since 1/1/14 and the last day to vote is TODAY, Friday January 31st.
Make sure your voice is heard for your favorite tricky tray. If you already voted..great..if not follow the link and vote.

****For those that have voted..do not jeopardize your vote by voting again!!
Duplicate votes by same email or IP address will be cancelled. This is not American Idol :)....only one vote.

Link: http://www.trickytray.com/vote2013.htm
Anonymous said…
Hi, spent some time this evening reading about Tricky Trays that some here have attended. I'm running my first one next month; my predecessor's children have moved on to high school.

What is your system for selling tickets? Does anyone use a computerized system?

Are your prizes in numerical order? I have many gift cards right now, but still waiting on baskets from our families, so I'm not sure if I should start numbering (numbers 1-50 would all be gift cards) or wait until some baskets start coming in to do the numbering, ie, wait until I have them all collected.

Also, could you tell me your process for drawing winners? I expect to have approximately 200-225 baskets. How long can I expect that to take to complete?

I'm going to a Tricky Tray this weekend to see one in action and bring some ideas/processes (or not) to my own.

Thanks for your feedback!

Anonymous said…
Hello all, I was reading all the comments on bent tickets. My group runs a TT every other year. We make sure to state in the program and again out loud that bent tickets will not be pulled.

I am the person who does pull and announce the numbers. I will tell you that in a bowl full of tickets your hand does gravitate towards the bent ticket. So bending a ticket does give you an advantage.

Even though we state no bent tickets people still bend them.

So what I do when pulling tickets is feel around and if I start to pull a bent ticket I discreetly drop it back in the bowl and pull one that is not bent.

So if you come to our TT and bend your tickets rest assured I will not be calling your numbers.
Anonymous said…
To the previous post what's the name of your organization & where is it?
Anonymous said…
I attended the Wanaque TT this past weekend & I must say it was well organized. The only problem was if your going to have rules written in the program it should be followed. It stated they were going to call the number 3 times. This guy called it at least 6. They had an abundance of prizes, but when your calling the numbers 6 times it starts to be long & drawn out. It was a long night.
Anonymous said…
re the discreet not calling of bent tickets: What purpose do you think being 'discreet' serves? Those people who bend tickets are cheating. The greatest service you can do to the integrity of your event is to randomly select a ticket like you are supposed to, and then determine whether it is marked. Announce that you have disqualified a bent ticket and you will win over everyone in the room except for the cheaters. They don't bend all their tickets, but that actual disqualification will do so much more than multiple announcements at the event. Just - put a notice in your flyer or posted where tickets are sold. The most important thing is to actually DQ when appropriate. Feeling around for the right ticket is highly suspicious behavior
Anonymous said…
What is the general feeling about advance ticket sales? If you go to the Frelinghuysen school link, there were cheaper advance tickets that allowed for early entry. While the event was advertised on tt.com for an extended time, no mention was made of advance sale. This event has closed its doors due to selling out in the past.
How unfair to invite us to come and not include info on the presale
Anonymous said…
Went to St. Joe's Oradell and it was FANTASTIC!! As always! Prizes were top-notch and wrapped beautifully. The event went off on schedule and they enforced all the rules. We were out by 10:30.

EXCELLENT, and will go back every year!

Very organized and well-run. The TT team works together and is very helpful to the guests.

There's just one thing I think they can add and that would be a high-level ticket package. Have a "Ticket Package Special" the night of the event and include just Level 3, Grand prize tickets and maybe Lottery Board tickets. Instead of us spending another $10 for 3 tickets have a $50 package and everyone would spend $50 or maybe even $100!
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