Dixie Theater readies for Mardi Gras Saturday night

The seventh annual Mardi Gras celebration this Saturday night at the Dixie Theatre is sure to provide some much-needed merriment for these troubling times.

And some much needed financial support for the cause of bringing affordable housing opportunities to county residents.

Once again, this event is the only yearly fundraiser by the local Habitat for Humanity affiliate. This year, for the first time, Franklin’s Promise Coalition has joined with Habitat to put on this event, and better serve those in need.

The $20 admission will cover dinner and live band entertainment; with a $2 donation for beer, wine and other beverages.

The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. Dinner will be prepared and served by local restaurant volunteers who will present a little “taste of Franklin County” for the event. A Tamara’s Cajun buffet, steamed shrimp from Buddy Ward, fish dip from The Grill and Ella’s cupcakes for dessert – and for the first time there will be a clam bar from Van Lewis and local gumbo from Jeff Ilardi.

David Butler, of Gulf State Community Bank, will again emcee and will begin the silent auction during dinner. Many local individuals and businesses have contributed valuable items, and the highest bid takes them home!

This year’s auction items so far include donations from The Old Carrabelle Hotel, hand painted wine glasses from Kathy Kouck, Dixie Theater tickets, jewelry from the Gem Collection, artwork from Joyce Estes, Joan Matey and Marilyn Bean, The Consulate, John Spohrer, the Ilardi family; Century 21 Collins Realty and Resort Vacation Properties - and more to arrive during the week.

Leading off the evening’s entertainment at 7:30 p.m. will be Randy Mims and Friends, followed by blues guitarist Slim Fatz, vocalist Candida Robertson and the ever-popular Tate’s Hell Blues Band, all orchestrated again by the amazing Wayne Thomas on the sound and light board.

Dress for the event is described by Pam Ashley, coordinator of Mardi Gras, as “Jazzy to Snazzy”.

For information or to volunteer for this event, Habitat for Humanity or Franklin’s Promise, call 653 3113