The Hartley Sentinel-The Everly/Royal News - Serving O'Brien & Clay Counties

Mardi Gras is coming to Everly.

The Everly Heritage Museum is inviting area residents to celebrate New Orleans-style at its "Mardi Gras on Main" concert fundraiser slated for Saturday, March 11. The musical event is the second annual fundraiser staged by the museum, and promises to be just as much fun as the first.

"We're hoping to see a big crowd again to support the preservation of Everly's history," said museum steering committee member Connie Goeken. "We have received great support from the community from the very beginning."

Money raised at the event will go towards creating a guided tour through the facility for school kids, with activities that coincide with the exhibits. Additionally, money will help fund the primary exhibit coming this summer – a photographic display of area grain silos being prepared by Mark Scharnberg.

"The exhibit will also include history of the structures, the different types of building materials and architecture of the silos, and their importance to past and present farming," Goeken explained. "This exhibit will be the centerpiece, with a companion exhibit of photos taken by area residents related to several categories pertaining to life in and around the Everly community."

Additionally, the museum plans on sponsoring a photo contest this year, with photos being juried and judged by professional photographers and prizes awarded. Contest rules will be released in the spring with the exhibit running throughout the summer.

"Mardi Gras on Main" will be held at the Hap Ketelsen Center and feature a concert by area musicians. The band, led by Everly native Mike Monnahan, boasts gifted horn players and a first-rate rhythm section. Current and former Everly-area vocalists will be joining the performance and showcasing a wide range of music from Dixieland and '20s to ballads and rock 'n roll.

The fundraiser will kick off with a light supper and cash bar social hour at 6:30 p.m., followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m.

Patrons may purchase reserved tickets for the event starting March 6 by calling the Everly Heritage Museum at (712) 834-2156 from 1-5 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, or by stopping in at the museum during those same hours. Ticket prices are $40 for individual tickets or $400 for a table of eight, which includes preferred seating and event favors. All tickets include the meal.

"Everyone at the Everly Heritage Museum promises that this will be a grand night of fun, food and great music," Goeken said.