McKenzie County Farmer - Latest News

M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer

Dust off your dancing shoes and prepare for a night of glitz and giving! The Long X Arts Foundation and Watford City Community Parks and Recreation are teaming up to host their second annual gala on April 12th at the Rough Rider Center, promising an evening of high-energy entertainment and fundraising for vital community programs.

“We just decided to try something unique,” explained Jessie Veeder Scofield, Director of the Long X Arts Foundation, while discussing the inception of the event. “We got to thinking that we don’t really have a formal event in Watford where people can get dressed up and really go all out and celebrate for a good cause.”

Following the resounding success of last year’s inaugural event, organizers are pulling out all the stops to create an unforgettable experience. The gala kicks off at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour, sponsored by First International Bank, featuring specialty drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Attendees can browse a silent auction filled with high-end items, try their luck at blackjack tables, and even witness local artists Daphne Johnson Clark and Oksana Zvyagelskiy creating live paintings, which will later be auctioned off. Artist Belinda O’Dell will also be on hand to create quick sketches of guests, providing a unique party favor. “We really infuse the arts with the cause and the experience,” Veeder said, highlighting the event’s commitment to showcasing local talent.

Dinner, featuring prime rib, will be served at 6:30 p.m., with the local baseball team lending a hand in serving. The evening will culminate in music and dancing with Rhino the Band, a high-energy group from the Twin Cities playing a diverse mix of modern, alternative, 80s, and classic rock, with a dash of country and other surprises. “It’s definitely worth coming out for,” Veeder encouraged, addressing any potential intimidation about the formal attire. “People wear anything from blue jeans and a blazer to a cocktail dress. It’s a very easy going and fun place to be…Just come on out in the best thing you have in your closet.”

Beyond the entertainment, the gala serves a crucial purpose: raising funds for arts and parks and recreation programs that directly benefit the Watford City community. “All the money raised goes back into arts and parks and rec programming for the community,” Veeder emphasized. “We have such a young community and so many students participating in our programs, and [we] want those programs to continue, so this is a fun way to help support it.” Veeder highlighted the impact of these programs, citing the 405 children enrolled in the parks and recreation’s soccer program alone. “The more we grow and the more support we get, the more programs we can offer, and that is what this event is all about,” she said.

With limited tickets available, Veeder urges community members to secure their spots for a night of celebration and giving. “Last year, we sold out,” she said. “It’s just going to be better than last year and definitely worth coming out to experience.” If residents hadn’t gotten tickets yet, Veeder reassured them that there were still some available on the Long X Arts Foundation website. She encouraged everyone to consider the event for a fun date night or an opportunity for an evening of connecting with friends and family.

Tickets and sponsorship tables can be purchased through the Long X Arts Foundation website at www.longxarts.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to dress up, dance, and support the vibrant arts and recreation scene in Watford City.

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