Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country | Founded 05-05-05

February 1, 2007 issue

Mardi Gras Returns to the High Country February 17

Dinner to Raise Funds for Relief Efforts in High Country and New Orleans

The second annual High Country Mardi Gras dinner to help cover winter heating bills of Watauga County residents and assist hurricane relief efforts in New Orleans will be held Saturday, February 17, at the High Country United Church of Christ. The church is located at 8233 Highway 421 North, 1.5 miles past Skateworld.

The festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. and feature delicious Cajun food, music, a silent auction and door prize items, Mardi Gras beads and masks, and other family fun.

Crazy attire in the spirit of Mardi Gras is encouraged, but not necessary. Festive, commemorative T-shirts and other items will be available for sale at the event.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under. Purchase tickets by calling 828-265-4074 or 828-297-1092.

All proceeds will support WeCAN (Watauga Emergency Crisis Assistance Network) and High Country United Church of Christ’s ongoing relief work in New Orleans.

WeCAN is a program sponsored by the Hospitality House that responds to neighbors in crisis. Among its services, WeCan helps with the heating bills of Watauga County’s neediest residents.

Lynne Mason, director of the Hospitality House, said that in previous winters the agency has offered more than $10,000 a month to help struggling families and individuals meet their basic heating needs. This year’s fundraiser will help continue this valuable resource.

Twice in 2006, High Country United Church of Christ volunteers cleaned out flood-ravaged homes and a church building in New Orleans as part of a national United Church of Christ effort to help Gulf Coast residents recover from Hurricane Katrina. They are planning a third trip this March to rebuild homes.

Rev. Shelly Wilson, who has participated in both work trips to New Orleans, said that recovery in the Gulf Coast region is ongoing and requires long-term attention, but that there are also local people in continuous need.

“The Mardi Gras dinner will be a fun and inspiring event for everyone involved. It’s especially significant that we as residents of the High Country can support local relief agencies like WeCAN and also help our sisters and brothers still suffering from the effects of Hurricane Katrina,” Wilson said.

For more information about High Country Mardi Gras, call 828-265-4074 or 828-297-1092.

 

Want To Go?

Date: Saturday, February 17

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: High Country United Church of Christ, Highway 421 North

Cost: $10 for adults/$5 for children 12 and under