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Shepherd branches celebrate Mardi Gras
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Neighbors | Natalie Scott.A couple danced together to the music of the Jim Frank Trio at the Poland Shepherd of the Valley Mardi Gras party Feb. 12.
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Neighbors | Natalie Scott.The Jim Frank Trio plays at the Shepherd of the Valley Mardi Gras party every year. To learn more about the band, look them up on Facebook.
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Neighbors | Natalie Scott.Mary Ann Marano (left) and Trish Ahlswede danced together at the Poland Shepherd of the Valley Mardi Gras party Feb. 12.
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Neighbors | Natalie Scott.Louise Joachim wore a hat covered in flowers and ribbon to the Mardi Gras party at the Poland Shepherd of the Valley Feb. 12.
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Neighbors | Natalie Scott.John (left) and Francis Bilas from Boardman Shepherd of the Valley wore festive hats to the Mardi Gras party at the Poland Shepherd of the Valley Feb. 12.
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Neighbors | Natalie Scott.Bill Ronci (left) and Faye Hawk were crowned this year's Mardi Gras king and queen at the Poland Shepherd of the Valley Feb. 12.
By NATALIE SCOTT
The Boardman and Poland branches of Shepherd of the Valley came together Feb. 12 to host a Mardi Gras party at the Poland location for independent and in-house residents. Shepherd of the Valley has been hosting the Mardi Gras party for more than 10 years.
“We used to only have the party for in-house residents, but we decided to include the independents and now we even have visitors from the Boardman branch,” said Paula Blakeman of the Poland Shepherd of the Valley.
The party, which features live music from the Jim Frank Trio, gives residents the chance to celebrate and have fun. Residents were invited to dress in hats and masks. Bourbon chicken, shrimp, grits, spicy green beans, and other traditional Cajun dishes were served, all made by the kitchen staff at Shepherd of the Valley. A king and queen of the Mardi Gras party were also named.
“We name a king and queen every year,” said Blakeman. “We alternate each year between in-house and independent residents. This year’s king and queen are Faye Hawk and Bill Ronci.”
After being announced, the king and queen were given crowns and experienced the remainder of the Mardi Gras party from their thrones.