What's Cooking in Central

The City of Central is now four years old. Its citizens are working hard to maintain a country atmosphere in the midst of unbelievable growth. Although there have been many changes in life in Central, the one constant has been that Central citizens are passionate about their children. "Cooking in Central" has taught our citizens an invaluable lesson: we can help ourselves but we must also reach out to others. In helping others, these blessings are multiplied and returned to us.

Over the last three years the "Cooking in Central" campaign has raised more than $750,000. This year's goal of $250,000 will bring our total over the $1,000,000 mark. The money raised at this year's event will be used to buy much needed library and media resources for the public, private, and parochial schools of Central and also for the fire-devastated St. Helena High School.

The event will be held at The Village at Magnolia Square traditional neighborhood development on Lovett Road. This new location promises to provide much more room than we have had in the past. The fund raiser will consist of jambalaya, bar-b-que chicken, fried turkey, couchon-du-lait, and brisket-cooking contests. There will be live and silent auctions, a $10,000 raffle, live entertainment, an antique car show, several activities for children, and plenty of refreshments. Kickoff for the eveut will be on Friday, April 3, at 5:00 p.m. with a crawfish boil and parking lot dance. Activities begin again at 10:00 a.m. Saturday morning.

This project needs a commitment from the entire community. There is something for everyone to do. Individuals can sell tickets, enter or sponsor a cook~off team, donate items for the auctions, become a donor, or even become a corporate sponsor. Citizens can also sign up for the many jobs to be done that weekend. There is work for everyone - so roll up your sleeves, join your neighbors, and experience an incredible sense of accomplishment, knowing that you've done something you can be proud of, not just for yourself, but for the children of the City of Central and for the children of St. Helena Parish Schools.

Please attend our bi-weekly planning sessions held at noon on Tuesdays at Cooper's Catering or contact one of the following committee members for additional information:
City of Central Chamber of Commerce - 261.5818
Louis DeJohn - 927.6520
Lucky Ross - 262.8473
Russell Starns - 273.0075
Loretta Watts - 926.3191