The University of Arkansas Community College at Hope Foundation's Beads, Bags and the Blue Yonder fundraiser is this Thursday, March 8th from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Hope Airport in the Historic 1940 Hope Hangar. The event will feature the Stardust Big Band. Stardust is an award winning band that performs music ranging from the Big Band Era to the modern sounds of today. Their library of more than 200 songs includes swing, latin, rock, waltzes and ballads, with arrangements from Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, and Woody Herman. This band is sure to light-up the evening.

But the award winning Stardust band is only one of the many things to enjoy during this event. Great sponsors have provided some wonderful auction items that will have the highest bidders traveling soon. These trip packages include a round-trip private “King Air” flight to Arlington, Texas, for you and five guests to enjoy a Texas Rangers baseball game; a first class day at the horse races; spending time beside the lake; or just relaxing on the Florida beach. If you’re concerned about being on time for your travels, a $2,100 Tag Heuer lady’s watch has been donated by Alexander Jewelers in Texarkana, to be raffled and given away during the event. Raffle Tickets are being sold by the Beads, Bags, and Bangles Committee as well as at the event Thursday night. Many other locally donated items will be available for silent auction.

If you want a new fashion look for the spring, come enjoy the runway style show that will feature 36 outfits that will have you “traveling-in-style” this spring. Shopping will also be provided by several vendors of jewelry, stationery, and other items. Needing to wet your whistle, a great line-up of saucy sips and savory bites will keep guests refreshed and enjoying the many activities of the night.

With a “traveling-in-style” theme, guests can take advantage of the stylish valet parking or self-park and catch a shuttle to the terminal. This fundraising event will benefit the UACCH Kids’ College Program held each summer at the College. A great group of sponsors have invested time, funding, and energy into this event to assure it takes flight.

Tickets are $30 each and can be purchased at the UACCH Advancement office. Buy your tickets today by calling Twyla Pruden at 870-722-8549.