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There are no bigger parties than Mardi Gras! So it was apropos that the world-famous event was the theme for the 100th birthday of Maxine B. Carter, the much-loved guest of honor whose outlook on life reflects the unbridled joy that culminates the Lenten season. With horns blaring and colors of green, gold and purple blazing, Maxine arrived seated on a resplendently decorated cane Queen fanback chair, much to the delight of the 100-plus guests. The party room was dressed to the nines with festive, colorful Mardi Gras decorations, thanks to Maxine’s assistant Nancy Shields and a host of others. . 
. An arch of multi-colored balloons provided the focal point and framed a bandstand where professional musicians filled the room with “When the Saints Go Marching In” and other evergreen standards. Partygoers, many of whom were bedecked in costume attire, beads, and masquerade masks enjoyed platters of hors d’oeuvres set on each of the 20-plus tables, while a bevy of waiters and waitresses circulated the banquet room with trays of eye-appealing, scrumptious finger foods and beverages. When a three-tiered birthday cake filled with candles was wheeled to Maxine’s table, everyone broke into a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday,” expressing their love and admiration for her. The ever gracious and lovely Maxine obliged her many friends and family members by swinging to the music and making graceful arm gestures, evoking the celebrated moves she once made on the dance floor as one of America’s most celebrated performing artists. |
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