By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – The Pelham City Schools Foundation hosted its Pelham Mardi Party Casino Night Event on Saturday, Feb. 1 at Windwood Equestrian.

The event featured various Mardi Gras-themed activities and amenities and was designed to raise money for the Pelham City Schools system.

Martina Winston, chair of the Pelham Mardi Party and vice president of initiatives and fund development with the Pelham City Schools Foundation, gave some context on the atmosphere of the event.

“We were thrilled with the atmosphere of the event,” Winston said. “I can’t say enough about the beauty of the Windwood Equestrian Center and the community spirit that filled the space in support of our schools. Everyone seemed to love the food catered by Nawlins Po’Boys. The gaming tables were full and the dance floor was busy.”

Winston said that around 150 people attended the event, and that the sponsors for the event included Pipelines LLC, Alabama Power Company, Coca-Cola United Bottling Company, Smiley Brothers and more.

Stacey McIntyre, who worked as a volunteer at the event, shared her positive experiences from the evening.

“As a volunteer, I was able to meet and work closely with some amazing people who really knew what they were doing,” McIntyre said. “Working alongside Martina Winston, Timeca Nevels and Amanda McCormick was a highlight for sure. Experiencing the second half of the event as a participant was so much fun and it was great to enjoy the fruits of our labor.”

Winston does not have an exact number of funds raised, but did give an estimate.

“We don’t have final numbers yet, but we’re looking at over $12,000 in total revenue for the event,” Winston said. “We have a wish list of items from the schools and our board will meet in the coming weeks to determine how we can give the most value to our school system.”

Amy Bradley, the president of the Pelham City Schools Foundation, also added that the foundation is already looking for ways to improve in the next installment of the event.

“We will be looking at every aspect of the event and how we can build on what we’ve learned for the next event,” Bradley said. “Things like event timing, theme and marketing timeline will be analyzed and improved. We are also surveying this year’s participants and volunteers for feedback to take into consideration. Overall, we are pleased and glad to have this opportunity to raise money for our foundation to support the mission of teacher excellence, student preparedness and community pride.”

For more information on the Pelham City Schools Foundation, visit Pelhamcityschoolsfoundation.org.