2003 Press Release Event

Celebrate Mardi Gras - And Feel Good the Next Day Beads for Needs Fundraiser to Benefit Seigle Avenue Partners

CHARLOTTE, N.C., February 3, 2003 - Looking for a Mardi Gras party that will leave you feeling good the next day? Then join the fun at Beads for Needs on February 27, 2003. More than 1,500 people are expected to attend the party and proceeds will benefit underprivileged children in the Charlotte area.

The party, which will be from 6-11 p.m. at the Wachovia Atrium will raise funds for Seigle Avenue Partners, an organization that provides out-of-school time programs for children in kindergarten through middle school who live in the Belmont /Piedmont Courts community.

The Voltage Brothers will perform live at Beads for Needs, which will also feature food from Brixx, Carraba's Italian Grill, Casco Bay, City Tavern, Hooters, Jack Mason's, Krispy Kreme, Moosehead Grill, Outback Steakhouse, and Palomino Euro Bistro. Guests, who must be 21 or over, will also be welcome to draft beer and wine, and naturally, LOTS of beads.

Last year's first year event attracted more than 1,200 young professionals and raised more than $21,000 for the Children's Law Center.

For more information, please visit the Beads for Needs web site: www.beadsforneeds.org.