Final plans are being made for Thursday’s 17th annual Beans & Greens Dinner.
The dinner is being organized by the Leflore County Democratic Party Executive Committee.
It will be at 7 p.m. at the Leflore County Civic Center.
A wine and cheese reception will precede the dinner at 6:30 p.m.
“We’ve already sold around 200 tickets,” said Robert Sims, chairman of the executive committee.
Tickets for the dinner are $15 each and are available for purchase in advance from executive committee members, Sims said.
In addition, Sims said, tickets may also be purchased by contacting him directly at 453-2665.
Tickets may be picked up at the door. A limited number of tickets will also be available at the door.
U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss, is the dinner’s keynote speaker. Thompson represents the 2nd Congressional District, which includes Leflore and Carroll counties.
The theme for year’s dinner is “Democrats — Moving Forward and Making History,” Sims said.
The name of the dinner is intended to honor the history of the Delta’s working African-American men and women, who often had only beans and greens for food.
This year’s dinner, in addition to beans and greens, will have other dishes such as baked chicken. The dinner is being catered to by Harry Sherrod.
Musical entertainment will be provided by Melody of Zion.
Sims said Thompson will be recognized for his years of service in Congress.
Also, other community awards will be presented during the dinner, he said.
Sims said Thursday’s dinner will be the first time door prizes will be offered.
He said it is likely that more tickets will be sold in the coming days.
Sims, a longtime Democrat, said it is important for Democrats to stay united in the run-up for the Nov. 8 general election.
“We’re saying, ‘Don’t take anything for granted,’” he said.
• Contact Bob Darden at 581-7239 or bdarden@gwcommonwealth.com.
