On Tuesday, February 5, 2008, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI) hosted its 7^th Annual Mardi Gras Celebration. With feathered masks and colorful beads everywhere, the "party with a purpose" kicked off at 7:00 p.m.  As one of BCRI's major fundraisers, Mardi Gras benefits the Institute's educational programs, such as Heritage Alive! and its newest school program, Dreamcatchers.  

Robert Earl Kelly of Kelly Construction Company hosted a live auction beginning at 8:15 p.m.  The entertaining public sale featured fabulous prizes including weekend get-a-ways, airline tickets, gift baskets, electronics and other items.  Attendees danced to the smooth sounds of Jazz Safari and the R&B tunes of Groove Daddy.  Local caterers were on hand to serve a variety of unique Cajun dishes.
 
Funds raised during Mardi Gras will support programs currently underway at BCRI for school-aged children.  "All year long we strive to create educational programs that touch lives and inspire our children," says Ahmad Ward, BCRI Head of Education.  "Monies raised from this celebration will ensure the continuation and development of programs that teach our children about this wonderful history."

8th Annual Mardi Gras     February 24, 2009            7:00pm