Bully Gras raises money for OSERVS
SDN Staff Report
The 2018 Bully Gras Ball was held Jan. 26 at Starkville’s Hilton Garden Inn, which is sponsored by TL25 LLC and the Oktibbeha-Starkville Emergency Response Volunteer Service organization. The annual function is the primary fundraiser for OSERVS.
King Jake Adams and Queen Sarah Jo Adams-Wilson led the court. Adams is an Associate Pastor at First United Methodist Church and Adams-Wilson is pastor at Adaton United Methodist church. Russell and Amy Winston, Greg and Susie Wall, Scott and Sandy Maynard, and Dr. David Allen and wife, Cindy, who was unable to attend due to illness, were the other Dukes and Duchesses vying for the title of Bully Gras King and Queen.
“Each year we look for people who make a difference in our community, those who have a heart for service. That’s what makes being on the court such an honor and this event such a fun night,” OSERVS Board Cheri Lightsey said.
Music for the evening was provided by Kannawermz. A buffet and the purple, green and yellow Mardi Gras decor provided a lively backdrop for the evening.
“The partnership our agency has with OSERVS is invaluable,” Oktibbeha County Emergency Manager/E-911 Director Kristen Campanella said. “Their emergency response volunteers are always more than willing to assist the citizens of the area. From CPR training to assisting residents with immediate needs following a disaster or emergency, they are the people right here at home that put in the effort to help our county. We truly appreciate them.”
The Mardi Gras themed event has become one the area looks forward to each year. This year it had a special twist, with the local National Guard Unit being deployed overseas.
“We honor the military and the families associated with them,” OSERVS director Connie Malone said. “We try to help them in whatever way we can.”
Melinda Bowman, whose husband, Rodney, recently deployed overseas with the National Guard, said that organizations like OSERVS are a blessing and an asset to the soldiers and their families.
“Thank you for shining a light on our military,” she said.