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July 7, 2011At last year’s ’70s soul fest, a Dolly Parton look-alike took home the Mr. Habitat for Humanity title. This year, 11 men are strutting their stuff “internationally” for 2011’s bragging rights.
The contest, hosted by radio personality Al Carter, features local men trying to make a difference in our community. Loosely based on a reverse beauty pageant, contestants from all walks of life compete in various events, said Michele Starks, Bayou Area Habitat for Humanity’s family support director.
“It is always interesting to see who will be chosen to compete from year to year,” Starks said. “The competition is a great way to get the word out about Habitat for Humanity, too. I find a lot of people leave the competition knowing a lot more about what we do in our community and that’s always a plus in my book.”
BAHFH Executive Director Andrea Clark said contestants are dressing from their chosen international region.
Michael Kliebert, a physician’s assistant at Houma’s SEECA, is the current Mr. Habitat.
This year’s contenders are facing off in three categories: musical chairs, international trivia and CD Dominos from the hit TV show, “Minute to Win It!”
“Musical chairs is a favorite,” said Aimee Bourgeois, BAHFH resource development and volunteer director. “No matter what other games we have, musical chairs is always part of the show. At times, the guys’ competitive side really shines.
“It’s hilarious to watch,” she said of the entire competition. “You have 11 guys and 11 personalities. They come prepared to have an enjoyable time.”
Judging this year’s competition are Sheri Eschete, wife of Thibodaux Mayor Tommy Eschete; South Louisiana Center for the Arts Director Anna Roberts; Thibodaux attorney Germaine Jackson; and Southdown Plantation House and Museum Director Katie LeCompte.
“Like any competition, the judges are a very important part of the show,” Bourgeois said. “So the contestants have to impress them, and they try: blowing kisses, giving candy and hugs. They do it all. But, at the end, the score tells who’s the best of the best.”
The evening fundraiser includes foods donated by local restaurants and homespun cooks and auctions. Proceeds benefit the BAHFH, which helps build homes for Terrebonne and Lafourche families in need. Since 1996, the organization has built more than 100 homes locally.
“We are dedicated to making home ownership possible for low-income, working families,” Clark said. “We offer a hand up, not a handout.”
Events like the Mr. Habitat event help offset BAHFH’s expenses and literally put roofs over local families’ heads. “Everyone leaves with a smile,” Clark added, “especially since they know the proceeds are going to a good cause. Everyone’s a winner.”
Mr. Habitat Goes International
Where: Cypress Columns in Gray
When: Thursday, July 21, at 7 p.m.
Cost: $40 per person or $350 per table for 10
For More Info: (985) 447-6999
