GROVES — Members of the Groves Knights of Columbus Council #3491 say their upcoming dance has been the official kickoff for their Mardi Gras season for the last 20 years.

“We always have a good turnout,” said Commander Quincy Faulk. “We’re halfway to our ticket sales. The funds raised help two or three local organizations.”

The Mardi Gras Dance will be from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Groves KC Hall, 3749 Lincoln Ave. Ken Marvel and the Swamp Pop Band with special guest Jivin’ Gene Bourgeois will perform.

The cost is $10 per person. It’s BYOB and setups and beer will be sold.

Attendees may dress formally or casually. There will also be a costume contest.

The Groves KCs hold a golf tournament fundraiser for the Fetters Center in Groves, food baskets given out at Christmastime to needy families and the Backpack Buddies Program — to feed hungry children in the Port Neches-Groves ISD. Backpacks are filled with food on Friday at schools for children in need for food over the weekend.

“These guys work really hard,” Bourgeois said.

David Ball: 409-721-2427