'As a community, we are very grateful'
By Roger Gavan
WARWICK — Once again the Warwick restaurants, local musicians, volunteers, residents and others stepped up to the plate to insure the success beyond expectations of the fourth annual Mardi Gras for a Cause.
The event, held in the Village of Warwick on Tuesday, Feb. 9, raised more than $9,000 for Back Pack Snack Attack, a non-profit organization that provides nutritional snacks to almost 300 needy school children each week of the school year.
Four years ago, Mardi Gras for a Cause was dreamed up by a group of local musicians from Warwick who wanted to be able to celebrate the arts and the community.
The event was designed to provide a unique and memorable opportunity for people of all ages to come together and enjoy local live music along with food and drink specials while giving back to the community.
The restaurants make a donation to Backpack Snack Attack but they are not tied to how much they earn that night.
This year, Warwick accountant Jeff Alario served as event chair and committee members were John Desibia, Mary Schweitzer and Shirley Puett.
As a special token of appreciation this year, Schweitzer, who is also Back Pack Snack Attack's volunteer computer technician, designed and framed special awards for all the participating restaurants and musicians.
"We are so blessed to live in a community that is mindful of those who are struggling and need some extra help," said Puett. "With community support, Back Pack Snack Attack is able to feed every child referred to us by the schools in Warwick. The money raised from Mardi Gras will feed many hungry children.
"Our thanks to all who participated in such an amazing event, she added. "The restaurants and bands give freely from their hearts, and, as a community, we are very grateful."