From Staff Reports 

ANDERSON, S.C. — In a Fat Tuesday celebration, the “Mardis Gras in the Electric City” gala — featuring a dance band — will be held from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Feb. 21 at Bleckley Station, 310 S. Main St., downtown here. 

The Spartanburg-based Back 9 Band will be a highlight at the fundraiser for Anderson Meals on Wheels. The gala also will feature a variety of foods from local restaurants. 

“The eateries and caterers will offer bite-size portions of their specialties to create a ‘restaurant row’ for guests,” an event promotion stated.

Regarding the Back 9 Band, the group bills itself on its Facebook page as “a true variety band. Our music covers everything from Motown, beach, pop, funk, Southern rock.... Get your dancing shoes ready! Don’t miss this party”

The city noted on its website, “Fondly known as ‘the Electric City,’Anderson acquired its nickname in the late 19th century when it became the first city in the South to make use of long-distance cables to carry electricity generated from hydroelectric power plants.

“By 1897, Anderson boasted electric streetcars, street lamps and the world’s first electrically powered cotton gin. Today, Anderson is also known both as the ‘City of Hospitality’ and the ‘Friendliest City in South Carolina.’”

The fundraiser also will feature a silent auction.

For tickets, which are $75, visit online at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/mow/event/864251.