by Jeanni Ritchie
The 31st Annual Crawfish Fundraiser of the KIWANIS CLUB OF ALEXANDRIA was held Saturday, April 26 at the Kiwanis’s Club Lodge.
Each year this is one of the most popular spring events but it was our first time to go! My sister wife Patti and I went with her daughter Meghan. Before you start scratching your head, know that I, too, have no idea how to introduce my ex-husband’s wife and daughter! Sometimes calling her sister, other times saying kids’ other mother or simply friend, Patti has been a part of my family for almost 25 years and Meghan since the day she was born a couple of years later.
I could think of no better companions for a crawfish boil to benefit Central Louisiana. The proceeds from the event fund most of their projects to benefit children in Central Louisiana.
They sponsor Key Clubs in four high schools, Terrific Kids programs in elementary schools, reading programs in schools, school supplies for Pre-K classes, YCP at Camp Beaureguard and the upcoming Circle KI at LSUA. Like us, they are proud to make a difference in central Louisiana.
“Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”
Steaming pots wafted through the air with the aroma of spices. Live music was provided by the Gary Cathey Band. (Fun fact: I dated Gary’s late brother Kenneth in the 80’s and his brother Steve was the live-in caregiver for my grandfather in Baton Rouge during his last two years with Alzheimer’s. It was nice to meet the third of Betty Cathey’s My Three Sons!)
We had a great time sucking heads and slurping tails, listening to great music, and helping the Kiwanis Club do what they do best- make a difference!
I can’t wait to learn more about Circle KI!
Jeanni Ritchie is a contributing journalist from Central Louisiana. She can be reached at jeanniritchie54@gmail.com.
