FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 15, 2005

CONTACTS:
Kristi Bochman
Co-publicity Chair
(515) 771-1763 (cell)
KLB010@drake.edu

Kristin Watson
Co-publicity Chair
(913) 558-8902
KAW007@drake.edu

DRAKE STUDENTS TO BRING MARDI GRAS TO DES MOINES

Approximately 50 students at Drake University have organized a week-long Mardi Gras-themed relief effort to benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Several smaller efforts by individual organizations were put aside to instead participate in a campus-wide fundraiser.

“I am amazed at the effort that was put forth by the students. There has been an outpouring of concern from numerous organizations since the disaster first struck and in just two weeks this group has managed to plan an extensive week of events,” said Melissa Sturm-Smith, assistant dean of students. “We never would’ve been able to do it without their willingness to contribute their time and many talents.”

The week kicks off on Monday, Sept. 19, with the Mardi Gras Relief Party at 4:30 p.m. in Drake University’s Helmick Commons. Students as well as faculty and community members will enjoy a Cajun-style meal with a donation of $5. Live jazz will serve as entertainment for the evening.

Throughout the week, students involved with the relief efforts will be selling Mardi Gras beads and T-shirts, all of which will go toward Drake’s contribution to the American Red Cross. Adhering to the motto “Every Dollar Counts,” students are encouraged to donate spare change as they go about their daily routines.

Other events include a silent auction, a dance marathon and a candlelight vigil at the end of the week. A variety of activities were intentionally incorporated to try to get as much participation from the student body as possible—with one of the core events being the Sunday kickball tournament, which begins at 10 a.m. Sept. 25, in Helmick Commons and Aliber Field. Teams of 10 must each contribute $25 to participate and will receive discounted T-shirts.

Total proceeds from the week will be announced following the championship kickball game on Sunday afternoon.

Hurricane Katrina Relief Week 2005
“Every Dollar Counts”
Drake University

Ongoing events throughout the week of Sept. 19–26
Mardi Gras beads sold 50 cents for one strand or $1 for three.
Money wars between schools and residence halls.
T-shirt sales with “Kick Katrina in the Balls” slogan for $10.Monday — Mardi Gras Relief Party Barbecue

Date and time:
Monday, Sept. 19, from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Location:
Helmick Commons, Drake University
(located at the center of campus, north of Olmsted Center)

Cost:
$5 per person

Guests:
Students, faculty and staff. The public is also encouraged to attend.

Donations:
All proceeds from the BBQ will go toward Drake’s contribution to the American Red Cross.

Menu:
Hamburgers
Hot dogs
Veggie burgers
Cajun chicken
Seasoning and sauces will be offered on the side
New Orleans-style dip with chips, crackers, and vegetables
Coleslaw
Jambalaya
Beans and rice
Banana foster bread with sauce
Tropical punch
Ice water
Coffee

Entertainment:
Live band TBA
Anticipated Attendance:
Approximately 1,000

Purpose:
To unite the Drake community in supporting the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Sponsors:
Sodexho is donating all of the food for the event.

Rain Location:
Hubbell Dining Hall
Wednesday — Auction

Date and Time:
Wednesday, Sept. 21, 9 p.m.

Location:
Pomerantz Stage, Olmsted Center, Drake University

Elements: Silent Auction:
Local businesses have donated gift certificates, food, and other prizes.
Students and faculty are auctioning off services such as cleaning a dorm room.

Date Auction:
Prominent Drake students will be auctioned off as dates to the Dance Marathon on Friday, Sept. 23.

Emcee:
Drake Broadcasting System members will emcee and will broadcast this
event live on KDCS Bulldog Radio.Friday — Salsa Night and Dance Marathon

Date and time:
Friday, Sept. 23
Salsa dancing: 8 p.m.–midnight
Dance marathon: midnight–2 a.m.

Location:
Parents Hall, Olmsted Center, Drake University

Admission:
$5, but students are encouraged to raise as much money as possible. The
student who raises the most money for Hurricane Katrina will win a prize.

Sunday — Kickball Tournament

Date and time:
Sunday, Sept. 25, 10 a.m.

Location:
Helmick Commons and Aliber Field

Fee:
Each team must raise $25 to participate.

Team size:
10 members
Monday — Candlelight Prayer Vigil

Date and time:
Monday, Sept. 26, TBD

Location:
TBD

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