Mary Lou Comley, left, and Juanita Harrison, both independent-living elders at Sterling Village, enjoy Mardi Gras festivities, complete with a parade, beignets, pralines and king cake. Some elders decorated walkers, wheelchairs and canes while wearing masks, beads and feathers, with “When the Saints Go Marching In” as background music.

 “There’s no need to travel for a good time when we can bring the Big Easy to Sterling Village,” said Mickey Wassinger, event organizer and Sterling Village Cottage elder.