The James Logan Courier

By Rick La Plante, New Haven Schools Director of Parent and Community Relations

The New Haven Boosters Association, which is helping the New Haven Schools Foundation with its $100,000 donation that helped save after-school activities for the 2011-12 school year, will hold a fund-raising carnival and chili cook-off Sunday, Nov. 6, in the parking lot at James Logan High School.

The “Carnival of Thanks,” from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. will include game and food booths, a talent showcase and prize giveaways and 50-50 fund-raisers that will give participants a chance to donate to the activities fund and also win gift baskets and cash prizes.

Another highlight will be a chance for chili-makers – and chili-lovers – to participate in a cook-off to determine the best chili chef in the area. Entry fee is $50 per group, or $25 for students. There will be a cash prize for the winning entry.

“We are looking for groups to share in the fun with a food or game booth,” said District parent and Boosters member Natalie Haney, who has taken the lead role in organizing the event. “We are also looking for groups who wish to join our talent showcase. “Let’s get all school sites, sports groups and school activities represented.”

Students in need of community service hours can volunteer to help. To volunteer, or to get more information about carnival booths or the cook-off, e-mail Ms. Haney (nathaney1@gmail.com).

The New Haven Boosters Association is leading the effort to raise $50,000 in funds toward the Foundation’s $100,000 pledge to the District to help fund stipends for the coaches and advisers who lead extra-curricular and co-curricular activities. For general information about the Boosters, e-mail Michael Ritchie (mritchie02@yahoo.com).

On the same weekend as the carnival, on Saturday, Nov. 5, the Foundation will sponsor a lunch and fashion show, by the Masonic Home, at the Acacia Creek retirement community.

The event, which will help support both the Foundation and the American Association of University Women’s science and math camp for seventh-grade girls, will be from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is $30, and the deadline for reservations is Oct. 31. For more information or to RSVP, call 441-3740 or 471-3850.