London, Paris, Hood River

Catwalk Chic at the Tenth Annual Melika GALA Fasion Show

By Tomi Owens, 11-14-06

Time to ditch that old fleece and bust out the blingbling because the elite of local fashion are staging their annual haute couture extravaganza to benefit the Hood River County Christmas Project. Twenty local businesses will be participating in this year's show to be held on November 16th at 7:30pm at the Hood River Inn's Gorge Room. Trendy boutiques like Parts + Labour, Plenty, and Frolik will be part of the mix as well as Columbia Gorge clothing essentials from Windwear, Doug's Sports, and Mt. Hood Meadows. And artisit Mark Nilsson contributes his own unique flair with hand painted, one of kind gifts.

Originally started in 1923 by Hood River Elks, the Christmas Project provides assistance to low-income families and seniors of Hood River County during the holiday season. Over the years, the fundraiser has morphed into a full-blown fashion 'event' incorporating local boutiques, artists, and who's who of Hood River Glitterati. Last year over 520 families received food and toy baskets and this year the show will be even bigger.

The Gala's organizer, former model and Hood River native Cathy Carter, says she tries to get as many businesses and volunteers as she can. "Not only is it a really fun night," says Carter, "it promotes and raises money for such a worthwhile cause! I just can't thank all who participate enough." Carter's background in modeling, public relations and marketing made her a natural for the role of event coordinator. The show has sold out year after year and has finally burst is seams, moving out of its original venue at the Hood River Hotel. The catwalk parade will be followed immediately by a dance party with Gorge mix masters Mike and Tim of AREA 54. And if you haven't boogied with AREA 54, frankly darling, you haven't boogied in the Gorge.

Carter loves the energy the show brings to our little town and is delighted with the ever increasing turn out. Runway models are always local volunteers who have the guts to get up on the runway and strut their stuff for a good cause. "Stephanie Hart is a model every year..so is Heidi West..Claudia von Flotow is also in it most years...Lindsay from South Bank.. Dana from Plush ...as always...Mark Nilsson..He is too hot!" says an enthusiastic Carter.

Hood River County may be a long way from fashion Meccas like London, Paris and New York, but it has a style all its own and has its heart in the right place. Tickets $15 and are available at sponsoring stores. To make a special donation contact Bruce Holmson at 541-386-4001. All donations are tax-deductible.

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