By KAYLEIGH PEARS / Special to the Reporter

Thompson High School is hosting its first-ever Warrior Tip Off and Taste of Alabaster event next month. The event will be held at the Thompson High School gymnasium on Nov. 3 from 6-8:30 p.m. The cost of a ticket for this event is $10.

“It’s been received very well,” said event planner Nadia Leverette. “I think this is probably the first time something like this has been done in Alabaster.”

Leverette said the event has been organized for two reasons. The first is that the women’s and men’s basketball teams each have a new coaching staff. In addition, high school teams are constantly changing and welcoming new players.

This is an occasion for the community to meet and welcome the coaching staff to Alabaster, as well as to support the new and old team members. The event also signifies the start of the 2016 basketball season for Thompson High School.

The second purpose for the event is as a fundraiser. Thompson High has several tournaments in its near future, and the money raised from the event will help to provide transportation to and from these competitions, as well as cover additional costs.

This event does not only support the basketball programs at Thompson High School; it benefits the entire community.

“We’ve gotten a bunch of the Alabaster restaurants to come in. They’re going to sample dishes from their menu,” Leverette said.

Local flavors, such as Margarita Grill and Champy’s Fried Chicken, will be present, as well as larger chain restaurants such as Panera Bread and Zaxby’s. These locations, and many more, will be providing food at the event.

“The restaurants are really excited to show their support for the school, and show their support for the community as well,” said Leverette.

There is still a chance for others to join in the fun as well, as the final date for vendors to sign up for the event is Oct. 19.

Tickets for the event can be purchased from any Thompson middle or high school basketball player. There is no guarantee of being able to purchase a ticket at the door of the event, so Alabaster community members should obtain one as soon as possible.

For any additional information, please contact Nadia Leverette at tasteofalabaster@gmail.com.