BLUE EARTH - Twenty-four tables will be bedecked in themes - Green Giant, Frosty Wonderland, Christmas, Autumn and many more - at a fund-raiser Saturday for Blue Earth Area Mentors.

Program coordinator Mary Lucas said it is the 6th Annual Tour of Tables for the group, which is in its 11th year.

"We serve about 38 kids who need an extra friend in their life, with adult volunteers who are our mentors," Lucas said. "We have several businesses and individuals who have bought and decorated our 24 tables at Hamilton Hall."

Tickets for lunch are $15, with table previewing from 11 a.m. to noon, when lunch is served.

Lucas said there is another option to preview tables from 9:30-10:30 a.m. for $5, including coffee and donuts. Tickets can be purchased at Dikken's in Blue Earth today, or at Hamilton Hall on Saturday.

Each year, the mentoring program gives a BEAM Buddy Award to someone who has done a lot for the organization. This year, it will be awarded to Neil Eckles of Blue Earth.

Saturday's afternoon program includes singing by Blue Earth Area students. Mentors and mentees also will speak.

"This year, along with asking for extra donations, I will be stressing the need for extra mentors because we have a waiting list and I would like to see them matched," Lucas said. "It does not take a lot of time to be a mentor. We ask you meet with them at least twice a month or more, and make your activity part of your regular day. Have them over for supper, run errands together or go to their sport activities."

Lucas believes two tables in particular will be fun to see. One is "Tea with Toys," featuring many antique toys.

Another table that piques Lucas' curiosity is the Mardi Gras table.

"Each table is giving a favor away to their ticket holders," Lucas said. "They're giving feathered masks."

Students from Elmore Academy and Blue Earth Area will serve the meal Saturday.

"This is the only big fund-raiser we have, aside from mailings." Lucas said. "We've done very well. The community really supports our program."