Bayou LMiving agazine
2018 Special Edition
February 12, 2018
The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
a Word From …
Delta Dawn
Mardi Gras is one of those fun-filled seasons for the whole family to attend in Louisiana. We crave the need to go to all those lovely parades and catch beads and candy. “Throw me something, Mister!” is yelled at the top of our voices as we try to catch the eye of the float riders to get a nice prize for our kids, who have their little hands up hoping they will get something thrown their way! It always makes me happy to see their little faces light up when they make a good catch and fill up their bags. The music is always a nice bonus for little and big parade goers alike. You can count on hearing all your favorites every year. My little kids love to dance to a good beat, so they are always busy getting down to all of my old favorites as the floats slowly pass by. This year has been a very different Mardi Gras experience for me so far. I’ve learned more about Mardi Gras this year, due to making the Bayou Living Magazine Special Edition and the event section in our regular issues. I’ve never been to a Mardi Gras ball before, believe it or not! Wow, now it’s on my list of things that I’ll look forward to next year if I don’t make 4
one this year. I’ve had a few invites, but I just couldn’t make them with my extra work load! But, I assure y’all I will be going to a Mardi Gras Ball before next year’s special Mardi Gras edition—Every girl must attend a ball, right? The children are looking forward to attending many parades before this season is over and I will be a happy camper to bring them to as many as we can and let the good times roll! They can’t get enough of those parades—and of course, we always come home with tons of goodies because they are all so cute that someone is gonna throw them something good! So, in the long and short of things, I hope for warmer weather during the parades and that you all have a safe and happy Mardi Gras season. As for me, I’ll be burning both ends of the candle trying to catch all those parades and a ball or two! Until next year, laissez les bon temps rouler!
Dawn Hughes-Daley Start Losing Weight today!
Dawn Daley 337-348-2958
Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
www.DawnDaley.arbonne.com February 12, 2018
Bayou Living
Magazine
2019 DEADLINE WILL BE FEBRUARY 12TH … PLEASE CONTACT DAWN DALEY FOR NEW KREWE FORM AND GUIDELINES. RESERVES YOUR SPOT AS EARLY AS DECEMBER 1, 2018. BILLING ADDRESS 630 West Prien Lake Road, STE B #301 Lake Charles, Louisiana 70601 Phone: 337-348-2958 www.bayoulivingmagazine.com
Publisher / Owner Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley jambalayanews@gmail.com
Contributing Editor Lauren Abate
Contributing Writers Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley Lauren Abate Tiffany Casey
Contributing Photographers Jason Carroll Photography Tiffany Casey
Sales jambalayanews@gmail.com heatherhughes808@gmail.com Jambanews.josh@gmail.com jambanews.gabby@gmail.com jambanews.megan@gmail.com
Graphics Art/Production Director Dawn Miranda Hughes-Daley Legal Disclaimer
The views expressed by The Jambalaya News Columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Jambalaya News, its editors or staff. The Jambalaya News is solely owned by Dawn Daley, published by Bayou Living Magazine, LLC, 630 W. Prien Lake Rd., STE B #301, Lake Charles, LA 70601. Phone 337-348-2958. While every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publisher cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. Copyright 2017 The Jambalaya News / Bayou Living Magazine, LLC all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is prohibited. February 12, 2018
Mardi Gras 2018 Special Edition
CONTENTS
4 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 16 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 43 44 46 48 50 51 52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66 68 70 72 74 76
Note From Delta Dawn Note From Lauren Contest Win $200 in GC Let Them Eat Cake King Cake Recipe Mardi Gras Queens Alexander Paints City Poster Athena Bien Faire Bons Amis Bon Couer Carnivale Chaos Charlie Sioux Classique Cosmos Couillon De Gratin Des Amis Déjà Vu Du Lac Extraordinaire L’Ecore Famille Good Times Grande Bois Gumbo Yaya Illusions Louisiane Lunatiques Maison de Calcasieu Masque Mischief Muse Noblesse Pirates L’Possede Ruckus Sauvage Voulors Big Brothers & Sisters 78 Grand Marshals
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Please Like and Follow us On Facebook New Email Address—jambalayanews@gmail.com
MARDI GRAS 2019 IS ON MARCH 5TH The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
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a Word From …
Lauran Time flies. I simply cannot believe that this is my fourteenth Mardi Gras! And after all these years, it has never, ever lost its dazzle and excitement. Every year is a new party, a new chance to celebrate as only Louisianans can. I remember the first ball I ever attended: Bon Couer at Habibi Temple. I was mesmerized. All these folks dressed in their best, coming together to eat, drink, dance and just pass a good time. I was hooked. At one point, I belonged to three Krewes. Not only was I on Court for all of them, I was also a Queen--TWICE! It was an experience that I will never forget. Just think, a Yankee gal from Boston becomes a Mardi Gras Queen! Never in my wildest dreams as a little girl growing up in East Boston could I have imagined such a thing. It just goes to show you that life has so much to offer if we open our minds and hearts and embrace the journey. In my years as publisher of The Jambalaya News, I was most proud of our annual Mardi Gras issue highlighting the Courts and Krewes of Southwest Louisiana. The 2018 issue promises to be better than ever in its new, glossy format. A special thank you to all of the Krewes who participated this year, and I wish the Kings and Queens and Royal Courts a marvelous reign in 2018! Happy Mardi Gras!
Lauren Abate A Message from Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter. “We are very proud of our local Mardi Gras, which brings people to Southwest Louisiana from all over the country. Mardi Gras in Southwest Louisiana is a communitywide celebration and a family affair. Over the years, it has grown remarkably into the standout festival it is today—the second largest in the state! My very best wishes to all for a safe and memorable 2018 Mardi Gras in Lake Charles and all of Southwest Louisiana.”
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Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
February 12, 2018
For our special Mardi Gras Edition, we are going to do a live drawing on Facebook on February 17. To win, you MUST go on Facebook to claim your prize. Follow these instructions carefully if you want to win! #1 – Go to our Facebook page. #2 - Like and follow our page. If you already have liked and followed us, skip this step. #3 – Find our post from February 17. It will be posted at 6 p.m. that night. The post will be of our 2018 digital online version of The Mardi Gras Special Edition. Like and share this post. #4 – In the comments section of the post, let me know where you found the mask and mention the ad and what page it was on. Also, feel free to let me know how you like our new glossy Mardi Gras 2018 Special Edition. Remember, it is very important to mention the name of the business in
Green Mask
February 12, 2018
Gold Mask
the ad so that it will tag them. This will help you all get more sponsors in the coming years for your Krewe. #5 – Finally, join us live on Facebook the day of the 17th as we will go live to announce the winner. You must be LIVE with us to win. A few hours before I am ready to go live, I will post what time that will happen. This will notify you because you have previously commented. What you are looking for: Four Mardi Gras Masks: one green, one gold, one purple and one Grand Mask as pictured below. Look carefully in the advertising, because they will be hidden within the ads. What you will in: We are giving away a $50 gift card to Rikenjak’s, a $50 gift certificate to Sloppy’s Downtown and a $50 gift card to Tia Juanita’s and a $50 gift certificate to Tio Juan’s. We will pick one person who found all FOUR masks and followed all the steps to win the prize LIVE on Facebook on February 17! Good luck and Happy Mardi Gras!
Purple Mask
The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
Grand Mask
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By Tiffany B. Casey—There Once Was a Kitchen Table
“Qu’ils mangent de la brioche!” or “Let them eat cake!” These words exclaimed within earshot of a Louisianan can mean only one thing – it must be Carnival and Carnival, well, that means that it is time for the King Cake feeding frenzy to commence! Ah yes, the King’s Cake in all its tricolored splendor Purple for “Justice,” Green for “Faith,” and Gold for “Power” – has come to represent much more than the original connotations once associated with it and that of the religious holiday, the Epiphany. This once unassuming little cake has become somewhat of a shining star, recognized much in the same way as the glorious star which guided the Magi to Bethlehem 12 days after the birth of Jesus Christ. Annually, the Epiphany is celebrated worldwide by the faithful on January 6 and is often referred to as Twelfth Night, the official start of the Feast of Epiphany. I am not a culinary historian but I am a lover of food history particularly Louisiana’s food history. I find everything that encompasses our food’s ways, traditions, and of course, our food itself fascinating. Some of you may know me from an ever-growing group of Louisiana food enthusiasts which I lead daily in discussions spanning from what we are cooking for dinner to what we should be considering planting in our 8
gardens the next growing season. “There Once Was a Kitchen Table” is an open Facebook group designed to encourage discussions not only about our history but more specifically, recipes passed down from generation to generation and the ways in which they are learned. Since Mardi Gras has officially begun and much of the festivities are in full swing, I thought that there was no better time to share with you a few interesting tidbits that I have learned along the way, not only about Carnival, but also that of our beloved King’s Cake. There are those who believe that the King’s Cake is completely rooted in Christianity, while others say its origins can be traced back further to that of festivities which were held during ancient Roman times. A winter solstice celebration honoring Saturn, the god of agriculture, was known as the celebration of Saturnalia. It is told that during this celebration, fava beans were used to cast votes. These magical beans (I know, stop laughing) appear to have been cleverly baked into small cakes and not only eaten as a part of the harvest celebration, but used to choose a “King of the Day.” The beans were chosen by lot, meaning that it really was luck of the draw which got you the crown. If your piece of the cake contained the broad bean or fève as it was called, then you were chosen as the reigning “King of the Day” and allowed to sovereign over the day’s proceedings. Sound familiar? Because both the Epiphany and the Saturnalia holidays coincided at some point during the Middle Ages, it is believed the pagan cake ceremony of the Saturnalia became
Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
February 12, 2018
associated with that of the Christian holiday of the Feast of the Epiphany. Keep in mind that it was much easier for the church to incorporate these traditions into Christianity than it was to abolish them altogether. The culminating result was, let us just say, one heck of a good time, even by today’s standards. It was a rowdy, booze induced, hedonistic, free-for-all with dancing and masquerading (for the safety of one’s identity, you can imagine) with just enough religion to keep everyone in God’s graces after the festivities had come to an end. And the cake with its small trinket baked inside – its traditions were carried over while somehow managing to retain its pagan roots of electing a mock “King of the Day.” These celebratorial cakes can still be found throughout Europe. In Spain they are the Rosca de Reyes; in France, the gateau de Rois; and in Portugal, one can still find the Bolo Rei. There are mentions of these cakes and their traditions throughout history as far back as the 1300s. So much history to take in, I know. But this extensive history as a whole is responsible for how we celebrate Mardi Gras today, particularly here in South Louisiana. With the exploration of the New World, it is believed that Carnival festivities along with their traditions were brought to Louisiana. You can thank French-Canadian explorer, Pierre Le Moyne, Sieur de Iberville when he led and ultimately succeeded in settling the first camp along the Mississippi River, March 3, 1699 one day prior to Ash Wednesday. This day was known to the French as Mardi Gras, the last day before their 40 days of penance began in the Lenten season. And so it was the name chosen for the first settlement under the French crown would come to be known as Point du Mardi Gras. We now know the location of this encampment to be that of present day Plaquemines, Louisiana. Now that’s a legacy, Plaquemines! With the steady onslaught of immigrants, the ritual of the King’s Cake (both that of the galette--the popular pastry in Northern France and that of its counterpart, a sort of yeast cake--elaborately decorated with vibrant colored, candied fruits in the southern regions) along with that of a trinket, perhaps a coin or a frozen Charlotte baked inside, was sure to follow. Like many of our traditions here in Louisiana, the King Cake has managed to survive many years of turbulent and tempestuous times. As a matter of fact, this now flamboyantly decorated cake, twisted beautifully into a diadem, has done more than just survive. It has managed to become not only the symbol of Mardi Gras but of an entire culture as well. While the appeal of the King’s Cake as a Mardi Gras novelty has helped to popularize this once simplistic European confection, so has the same recognition helped to increase its ability to be marketed in a much more grandiose scale. The King Cake has, in fact, become so popular over the last several years that the room for profit by large companies has grown tremendously, thus creating an entirely new market for the once religious symbol of Twelfth Night. While its popularity has undoubtedly grown by staggering accounts, its traditional, ritualistic, and Christian aspects have all but completely been eliminated. This change has allowed the custom of celebrating Carnival with that of a King Cake by anyone February 12, 2018
regardless of faith. In fact, enthusiasm has increased so much that King Cakes may now be ordered via the Internet and shipped just about darn near anywhere around the globe. All it takes is a good Internet connection and your pocket book. I was not the slightest bit surprised to come across statistics that suggest a large portion of out of state orders go to satisfying Louisiana natives who no longer live in their great state but still have the desire to celebrate Mardi Gras abroad with their families and friends, spreading sticky, sweet harlequin-colored happiness across the land. To keep up with the ever-growing demand, bakeries and merchants alike have been busy modifying their cakes, making them even more appealing to the consumer by adding vivid-colored icings, sparkling candied coatings, filling them with luscious puddings and jams, or even frying them. All of this zhushing has paved the way for the once exiguous cake to become not only representative of Mardi Gras but any other celebratorial holiday we Louisianans can devise in order to devour one of these treasures from the past. Whatever delights your fancy, whether it is to perfect a recipe gifted to you from long ago, have one delivered to your home or office, or just picking one up from your favorite local market or bakery, one thing is certain in this vast land of excess, you are sure to get your fill of cake this Carnival season no matter how you choose to slice it. If you don’t, then you are seriously doing something wrong…and that is a fact!
The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
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By Tiffany Casey There Once Was a Kitchen Table
Ingredients
16 oz. sour cream 1/3 cup sugar ¼ cup butter 1 teaspoon salt 2 (1/4 oz. envelopes active dry yeast) 1 tablespoon sugar 2 large eggs, lightly beaten About 6-7 cups of flour 1/3 cup softened butter ½ cup sugar 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon Directioins
Add the first four items to a medium saucepan and stir over a low heat until they are well-combined. Let cool and put to the side. In a Pyrex measuring cup, add ½ cup warm water, one tablespoon sugar and the two envelopes of yeast. Let stand for five minutes. In a mixer, beat the sour cream mixture, yeast mixture, eggs, and two cups of flour until smooth. While mixer is on low, add the remainder of the flour (four-five cups) a cup at a time until a soft dough forms (you may not use all of your flour or you may use it all). Turn dough out onto a well-floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic for at least 10 minutes. Place in a well-greased bowl, making sure to grease the top. Cover and let rise about one hour. Should double in size. Punch down dough and turn out onto lightly floured surface. Divide into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a LONG rectangle (about 20 inches) and about 10 inches wide. Spread 1/3 cup butter evenly on each piece leaving an inch border. Sprinkle ½ cup sugar and cinnamon over buttered pieces. Mix ¾ cup sugar, two packages of cream cheese, one large egg, and vanilla to taste until smooth. Spread some of the cream cheese mixture evenly on each piece. Some people may just use the cinnamon sugar and some just the cream cheese mixture; I like both. Roll up each piece lengthwise, like a jelly roll. Moisten and pinch the seams, being careful not to tear. Carefully twist the two together and shape into a “crown.” Place on greased baking sheet. Allow to rise once more for about 20-30 minutes. Bake at 375 for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool cake and then drizzle generously with Royal Icing and sprinkle colored sugar on top of the wet icing. Add a PLASTIC baby and there you have it! If placing a plastic baby in the cake AFTER it is baked, make sure to let everyone know – no one wants to choke on a King Cake baby!! 10
Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
February 12, 2018
2018 Tiny Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA is Laila Bernard, 6. The daughter of Lance and Alisha Bernard of Lake Charles, she is a first grader at Gillis Elementary. 2018 Petite Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA is Emily Grace Guillory, 7. The daughter of Alfred and Danielle Guillory of Lake Charles, she is a second grader at TS Cooley Magnet Elementary. 2018 Little Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA is Ali Claire LaBove, 9. The daughter of Shannon and Katie LaBove of Sulphur, she is a fourth grader at Our Lady’s School. 2018 Deb Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA is Isabel Kate LaBuff, 12. The daughter of Scott and Kim LaBuff of Kinder, she is a seventh grader at Kinder Middle School. 2018 Teen Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA is Emily Claire Aguillard, 13. The daughter of Derrick and Kristina Aguillard of Lake Charles, she is a seventh grader at Iowa Middle School. 2018 Junior Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA is Abi Rogers, 16. The daughter of Daniel and Kayla Rogers of Lake Charles, she is a tenth grader at Sam Houston High School. 2018 Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA is Kelcie Claire Thomassee, 19. The daughter of daughter of Freddie and Stacie Thomassee of Iowa, she is a sophomore of McNeese State University majoring in mass communication with a concentration in public relations and a minor in agriculture. Kelcie will represent Mardi Gras of SWLA in February 2019 at the Louisiana Congressional Mardi Gras Ball in Washington DC. February 12, 2018
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Alexander stands by her queen to show its actual size.
Alexander Paints Official City Poster for Lake Charles By Dawn Daley Mardi Gras comes early for local renowned artist Candice Alexander, as she gears up to design yet another Mardi Gras poster, this time to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Mardi Gras in Lake Charles for 2019. If you attended the Twelfth Night celebration held on January 6, 2018, then you know that she also designed this year’s official Mardi Gras poster, which now graces the cover of OUR Special Mardi Gras Edition. Alexander’s design was inspired by vintage Mardi Gras costumes she and her team rounded up. The costumes were put on a live model, Jade Harrington—AKA Jaderbomb (whom you may know from her DIY projects in our regular Jambalaya issues and her online blogs) and she was photographed portraying a queen reaching out to the viewer. She took away some of the likeness in the portrait to give the queen more stoic, universal features and added her own artistic flair to the design. I was so impressed by her original, life-sized painting that sits in her studio that I just had to have it for the cover. It’s an alluring piece of work. But, what else would you expect from the largest art studio in the region? Candice Alexander Art studio is located in downtown Lake Charles, where she has been aweing locals and tourists 12
Alexander also painted a Mardi Gras king inspired by Burn Rourk.
alike for 17 years with her Louisiana-inspired art. With well over 800 fleur de lis designs inspired by Louisiana’s rich culture, the work speaks to the diverse colors of the Cajun, the Roughneck, the Creole, the Hurricane Survivor, the Swamp Rocker, the Rice Farmer, the Jazz Musician and of course the Mardi Gras Queen and Kings. Within the walls of her studio you can see that she has a true passion for art and loves to create new and inspirational art with all of her heart. In fact, if you drive by her studio most any time, even late into the evenings, you can see Alexander buried in her projects and most likely covered in paint and glitter. Alexander has partnered with Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana, Inc., the nonprofit organization responsible for coordinating more than 20 community Mardi Gras events and parades each year. She is donating 25 percent of each print sold to the organization to aid in supporting their mission of enhancing the cultural and economic growth of Southwest Louisiana through its annual festival. For more information on upcoming Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana events, visit www.swlamardigras.com. Prints, custom frames and specialty items such as the design with Custom Krewe logos and names, mugs, glasses and shirts are all available for purchase at Candice Alexander Art Studio located at 900 Ryan Street (first floor of the Charleston Hotel). Items can also be purchased at www.candicealexander.com. I wonder who will be her next inspiration for the 2019 official poster? Each year she outdoes herself. I can’t wait to see next year’s poster already. Guess I’ll have to be at Twelfth Night 2019!
Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
February 12, 2018
Holidaze… A Calendar Craze! The Krewe of Athena celebrated its 16th Annual Ball on January 20 at the West Cal Event Center. Lee Peck of Fox 10 News in Mobile was the emcee with music provided by The Anteeks Band from Baton Rouge. Brookin Alexander provided videography. Captain Athena XVI was Tisha Stringer who is a lifelong resident of Sulphur. A graduate of Sulphur High, she holds a BS degree in secondary education from McNeese. In her 19th year of teaching, she is at the Sulphur High 9th grade campus. Captain Tisha has been in the Krewe for 15 years and reigned as Queen Hera XVIII in 2010. The daughter of Randy and Kat Gros of Sulphur, she is married to Scott Stringer. They have two daughters, Maci and Bree. Queen Hera 16th – Kim Caton
Captain Athena 16th—Tisha Stringer
Conner Fleniken
Dylan Guidry
Cassee Hawkins
Duchess Aglaia XVI was Kathy Doty. She is longtime resident of Sulphur by way of Woodinville, Washington. She has been the Director of Quality Management at West Cal-Cam Hospital for 25 years. She is the daughter of Bill and Susan Morgan and is married to Ron Doty, all of Sulphur. They have two sons, Cameron, and Connor and his wife Rachel Doty, with a grandson on the way. Duchess Euphrosyne XVI was Randi Taylor. She is a native of Iowa and resides in Carlyss with her husband Nick, son Kyler and daughter Kennedy. She is the daughter of James Marcantel of LeBleu Settlement and the late Brenda Arabie Brinson. Randi is a 2002 graduate of Iowa High, and has a BS degree in elementary education from McNeese. She is in her 11th year of teaching, currently in 4th grade at WT Henning in Sulphur. This is her 5th year in the Krewe. Duchess Thalia XVI was Kayla Blackwell Kastner. She is a native of Sulphur and resides in Lafayette. She is a 2003 graduate of Sulphur High, a 2007 graduate of
McNeese in radiologic technology and obtained a Master in Science in radiology science administration from Midwestern State University in 2013. Kayla is currently the Director of the Cancer Center at Lafayette General Medical Center. She is the mother of identical three-year-old twin boys, Joe and Jax and her parents are Ricky and Jeannie Blackwell of Sulphur. Kayla served as a Princess in 2004 and her mom was the Krewe’s first Duchess Thalia in 2002. She has been a member for five years. Queen Hera XVI was Kim Caton. A resident of Lake Charles, she graduated from Barbe High School. She attended McNeese and holds a real estate license with Berkshire Hathaway, and is the owner of Jolie Designs in Lake Charles. This is her second year as a Krewe member. The Queen’s parents are Ray and Cynthia Miller and she is married to Bonner Lee Caton, all of Lake Charles. They have a son Bonner who attends LSU. The Krewe honors young adult children of members by presenting them as Princesses and Gents. Cassee Sue Hawkins and Sydnee Patricia Hawkins are the daughters of Randy and Sandee Hawkins of Sulphur. Hallie Lynn Vincent is the daughter of Brandon Vincent of Sulphur and Brandy Lightsey of Prairieville and granddaughter of Lee and Cindy Vincent of Sulphur. Connor Matthew Fleniken is the son of Shawn and Kelly Fleniken of Sulphur. Dylan Kyle Guidry is the son of Jason and Brandy Guidry of Carlyss. Bonner Abram Caton is the son of Bonner and Queen Kim Caton of Lake Charles. The Krewe of Athena is a women’s Krewe with 140 members and chooses its royalty strictly by the “luck of the draw.” It provides the “Tracy Beaugh Rising Star Award” at SOWELA each semester, giving $500 to a deserving graphic arts student.
Bonner Caton
Duchess Euphrosyne 16th
Duchess Aglaia 16th
Duchess Thalia 16th
Sydnee Hawkins February 12, 2018
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Krewe de Bien Faire Presents Heroes & Villains
Krewe de Bien Faire Presents Heroes and Villains Krewe de Bien Faire presented their Mardi Gras Ball at the Isle of Capri on January 20. The theme was Heroes and Villains. This is the new Krewe’s second Mardi Gras.
His Royal Highness King Pierre II, Tone Kantowicz & Her Royal Hineness Queen Jolie II, Teri Meaux.
Captain Krystal Brinley 14
The Captain was Krystal Briley. Dukes and Duchesses were Cody Warren and Adrianne Rice, and Clark Benton and Sherri Kyle. His Royal Highness King Pierre II was
Duke Cody Warren & Duchesses Adrianne Rice Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
Tone Kantowicz, and her Royal Highness Queen Jolie II was Teri Meaux. This new Krewe has over 100 active members from all over SWLA and Southeast Texas. The Krewe’s name means “to do good,” which exemplifies the character and mentality of its Krewe members. They believe in helping others with generosity and service and of course, having a great time. Krewe de Bien Faire’s motto is “Whatever you do, do it good!”
Duke C lark Benton & Duchess Sherri Kyle February 12, 2018
Life * Homes * Auto * Banking
Agent - Cody Warren
2352 E. McNeese Street Lake Charles, LA 70607 Email: cwarren@sfbcic.com Office: (337) 478-6714 February 12, 2018
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McDaniels with songs “Hey Mickey” and “Be Our Guest” in the background. This is the third year to hold the position of Captain for Michelle Gaspard and seventh year as a member. She is a graduate of Sulphur High School and McNeese State University and resides in Moss Bluff with her three children, Austin, Luke and Josee. Michelle is employed by Langley, Williams & Co. and is also a Hurricane Crossfit member. Melissa Daniels has been a Krewe member for three years and in addition to Co-Captain, she is currently the secretary. She and her husband Brandon have three children, Tyler, Daulton and Matthew. Melissa resides in Sulphur and is employed by Chad’s Pawn Shop. Melissa is also an avid Crossfit participant at Hurricane Crossfit. With “In the Ayer” by Flo Rida as the Royal music, King Henry XII and Queen Anne XII, Ryan and Tracy Doucet King Henry XII and Queen Anne XII—Ryan & Tracy Doucet strutted before the crowd. King Ryan Doucet has been a Disney characters, both members and guests of Krewe member for five years and has held several Krewe des Bons Amis, assembled into the West board positions. Ryan graduated from Sulphur Calcasieu Event Center on the night of January 13. High School and McNeese State University and is This year’s theme was “A Magical Night of Disemployed by Citgo. He holds a Crossfit Level 1 ney.” For many, this was the first Mardi Gras Ball Certification and is a coach at Crossfit Adino. of the 2018 season. Queen Tracy graduated from Lake Charles High Founding member Charles Cubbage, President School and McNeese State University. She is em2017-2018, greeted the crowd. As his first duty, he ployed by Elite Medical Wellness and Premier introduced King Henry and Queen Anne 2017, SuDance Center and has been a Krewe member for zanne and Aaron May, as they made their final three years. They have three children, Whitney, walk as King and Queen. Sydney and Holly, and are residents of Lake Master of Ceremonies Justin Morris introduced Charles. Both Ryan and Tracy are active members Captain Michelle Gaspard and Co-Captain Melissa in Team Citgo and Ainsley's Angels, where they 16
Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
February 12, 2018
enjoy volunteering their time. McNeese State University and is employed by the Duke Prince Charming and Duchess Cinderella, Calcasieu School Board at Gillis Elementary. MonBrad and Diana Hebert, were introduced to the ica is an active Crossfit Kids Coach at Gillis Elemusic of Lily James and “A Dream is a Wish Your mentary and is an active member at Hurricane Heart Makes.” They have been members for 10 Crossfit. years and have held numerous positions on the More entertainment for the Court included the Board of Directors. They are the parents of three Seven Dwarfs, featuring several Krewe members grown children, Hope, Jennifer and Marcus, and performing to the song “Hi Ho.” Glasses were then six grandchildren. Duke Brad is employed by M & filled and a toast to the Court followed. C Oilfield and Duchess Diana is blissfully retired. Guests and members participated in the Second Duke and Duchess of Beauty and the Beast, Mike Line Dance, after which the Ball began. and Anna Allen, waltzed to center stage to the For more information on our Krewe, please visit sounds of “A Tale as Old as Time.” The tempo www.krewedesbonsamis.com changed as they dance to “You Never Can Tell” by Chuck Berry, recently highlighted in the movie Pulp Fiction. The couple have been Krewe members for 10 years and have held various positions on the Board. Residents of Lake Charles, Duke Mike is a graduate of Iowa High School and McNeese State University and is employed by Fugro Consultants as a geologist. Duchess Anna graduated from Lake Charles High School and McNeese State University. She is a retired teacher, having taught at Henry Heights Elementary. Mike and Annie Duke and Duchess of Beauty and Duke Prince Charming and Duchess enjoy traveling, especially to The Beast—Mike & Anna Allen Cinderella—Brad & Diana Hebert Disney World. Royal entertainment for the King and Queen started with a throwdown between Cinderella (Diana Hebert) and Belle the Beauty (Anna Allen) to the song “Princess Rap Battle.” Duchess of Queen of Hearts, Monica Faulk was introduced to the song “White Rabbit Music Remix.” Monica has been a Krewe member for three years. She is a resident of Grand Lake, has been married for 18 years and has two children, Gavin and Caden. Duchess of Queen of Hearts Left Co-Captain Melissa Daniels & She is a graduate of Monica Faulk Right Captain Michelle Gaspard February 12, 2018
The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
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329 Broad Street, Lake Charles, LA | 337-602-6365 | After Party from 7pm—10pm Mardi Gras Day. 18
Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
February 12, 2018
Hole Sponsors Available $150 Celebrating 20 Years March 2, 2018
Limited to 32 Teams—4-Man Scramble Benefits Mardi Gras Museum Of Imperial Calcasieu
The Mardi Gras Museum Central School 809 Kirby St. Lake Charles, LA
Golf Tournament Sign Up Today Gray Plantation Golf Club
Contact Museum for more information. Call 337-430-0043 February 12, 2018
The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
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Queen Dee Davis King Mark Dever Captain David Patrick
Krewe du Bon Coeur celebrated it’s 21st annual Presentation and Ball Saturday, January 13 at Habibi Shrine Center. This year’s theme was Egyptian Fantasy. Master of Ceremonies Dale Mann greeted the guests, including special honorary military guests from Fort Polk: SPC Timon Battle, Specialist Elisa Martinez, Sergeant John Hughes and wife Shyesha, Staff Sergeants Amy and William Puckett, Sergeant First Class Susana O’Grady and husband Sergeant First Class James O’Grady. Captain David Patrick entered the ballroom representing Anubis, the jackal god and guide into the Ancient Egyptian Afterlife in a costume designed by D’Val Designs of Sulphur. David is married to his wife Linda Zaunbrecher Patrick of 28 years. He has been a Krewe member for 19 years and has served on the Krewe’s Board of Directors for eight years. David served as the Krewe’s Captain in 2013 and was chosen as King Bon Coeur XVIII. David and Linda have two children, Krewe member Allison Patrick and Darin Patrick. This year’s Debutantes included Miss Sydney Rae Manuel, daughter of Krewe member Cyndy Manuel and Miss Brittany Aaron Stover, daughter of Rita and Sean Greeley and niece of Krewe members John and Rene Jones. Next, the 2018 Royal Court couples were presented to the Krewe and guests. Duke and Duchess of Sands of Time were Karen and Randy Rayon. Karen and Randy have 20
been married for 29 years, have been Krewe members for two years and are lifelong residents of Lake Charles. They are proud parents of four wonderful children: Ashley, Callie, Danielle and Dustin. Their children have also blessed them with four beautiful grandchildren: Kaylin, Aubrey, Jonah, and Telitha, who gained her angel wings in 2014. The couple is also expecting their 5th granddaughter Austyn Lynn in March. Duke Randy retired from UPS after 33 years of employment and now enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with family. Duchess Karen was employed in the banking industry for over 20 years. She now enjoys being a full-time wife, mother and grandmother. Duke and Duchess of Pyramids were Jason Adams and Kara Fruge. Duchess Kara is married to Gerald Fruge, Jr. and is the daughter-in-law of founding Krewe members Gerald Sr. and Joy Fruge. Kara and Gerald Jr. have been Krewe members for four years and have been married for almost four years. They are the proud parents of 2 ½ year old daughter, Camille. Kara is the executive assistant at Dunham Price in Westlake. Duke Jason has been a Krewe member for three years. He is a pipeline inspector and he enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends. Duke and Duchess of Sphinx were Courtland Lane and Carly Suratt. Carly and her husband Scott have three children: Johanna, 19; Madison, 12; and Collin, 2. Duchess Carly is a graduate of McNeese State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in history. She currently works at
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Niche Creative Studio, where she is able to share her creativity with others. Carly currently serves on the board of “Keep Greater Lake Charles Beautiful, Team Green.” Originally from Oklahoma, Duke Courtland graduated from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in the field of park law enforcement. He served with the Oklahoma National Guard for 10 years, and was deployed to Afghanistan, where he was awarded a Bronze Star and Purple Heart during his deployment. He achieved the rank of Captain and was honorably discharged in 2017. He has lived in the Lake Charles area since 2015. He and his wife Carrie Madeline Lane reside in Vinton and have been Krewe members for two years. Courtland is currently a deputy with the Calcasieu Parish Sherriff’s Office. Duke and Duchess of Hieroglyphics were Jason Comeaux and Lisa Lively. Duchess Lisa, a McNeese State University graduate, has recently returned to Lake Charles. She was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha where she formed lifelong friendships. She later attended The University of Texas at Arlington. Lisa has two children, Shannon Lively Bruner and Brittany Lively; and two grandchildren, Kasen and Beck. Duke Jason, a resident of Sulphur, has been a Krewe member for two years. A combat veteran who has served in Afghanistan and Iraq, he is currently employed as a machinist at Nutec Machine. Finally, the Royal Couple, King Bon Coeur XXI Mark Dever and Queen Bon Coeur XXI Dee Davis made their
appearance. King Bon Coeur made his entrance escorted by Krewe President Sherry Campbell. Mark is married to Susan Dever and they are both charter members of the Krewe. He attended McNeese State University and served in the United States Navy for six years before being honorably discharged in 1974. He retired as human resource representative for Conoco Phillips in 2005. Mark and Susan have four children and six grandchildren. His hobbies include fishing, hunting and playing golf. Queen Bon Coeur Dee Davis made her grand entrance escorted by Krewe Vice President Dustan Abshire. Queen Dee has been married to Andy Davis for the past 40 years and they are both charter members of the Krewe. Dee previously served as Duchess in 2009. A resident of Sulphur, Dee worked for the City Court of Sulphur for over 32 years before retiring in 2015. Dee and Andy have two children, Andrea Davis and Robert Davis, along with three grandchildren Dylan Wyatt, Abby Wyatt, and Brooke McBride. Current board members are David Patrick, Captain; Sherry Campbell, President; Dustan Abshire, Vice President; Secretary, Sandra Gillard; Andy Grimes, Social Director; and Vicki Saxby, Treasurer. Krewe du Bon Coeur would like to thank The Stretta Band from Nashville, Tennessee, Deep South Productions, D’Val Designs, Jake Stutes of the Ballroom at the Charleston, and Davenna Lee Photography for helping to make their Ball spectacular.
Brittany Stover
Randy & Karen Rayon February 12, 2018
Sydney Rae Manuel
Courtland Lane & Carly Suratt
Jason Comeaux & Lisa Lively
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Jason Adams & Kara Fruge 21
Krewe de Carnivale’ Presents ... Bleu de Carnivale’
Krewe de Carnivale’ celebrated Mardi Gras in grand and glorious style at the Lake Charles Civic Center’s Exhibition Hall on January 13. The Krewe chose “Bleu de Carnivale’” as the theme for their annual Mardi Gras mega party. The event is a costume-optional ball and this year, guests and members alike transformed themselves into characters portraying all things blue. That evening, guests entered through a mesmerizing kaleidoscopic blue chamber into a festively decorated ballroom. Members and guests were dressed in elegant attire as well as elaborate costumes depicting a wide array of characters. Ball Captain Steven Lane served as the Master of Ceremonies as he signaled the start of the Krewe’s updated second line-style procession into the ballroom. The introduction of Royalty kicked off the evening with the presentation of the King and Queen of Krewe de Carnivale’ 2018, Jeremy Johnson and Jenna Greiner portraying King and Queen of Carnivale’ Bleu. He then offered a traditional toast to the members and guests. Ball Captain Lane was born in Oroville, California, raised in Central Louisiana and had resided in Lake Charles for 21 years. He is the son of Robert and Amy Lane and currently works in the accounting department of Sabine Pools. King Jeremy is a native of Pitkin, Louisiana and is employed by Lamar Advertising. He attended Louisiana State University before stints in Los Angeles, New York City and Atlanta. He and his husband, Rodley Racca, were recently relocated to Shreveport where they don’t care for the food very much. His queen, Jenna, and he have an understanding that will allow him to kidnap his god-child, Eliza, any time he wants --no matter what her (actual) husband has to say about it. 22
Queen Jenna is also a native of Vernon Parish, Louisiana, and currently works for the Port of Lake Charles. She attended Northwestern State University, and spent several years working overseas in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan, where she met her husband, Eric. She is currently expecting their first child, a daughter named Eliza, due to make her appearance in May. The Queen has given her King, Jeremy, a twoyear mandate after which he and his husband must relocate back to Lake Charles to assist with their god-daughter, who promises to be anything but docile. The Captain, along with the King and Queen, would like to thank everyone who helped to make the evening so memorable. Krewe de Carnivale’ has two unique traditions. The first is the bead tosses, where the Krewe members take to the stage to whip the party crowd into a frenzy by tossing beads and trinkets “parade-style”. The other tradition is the napkin toss where guests are invited to pitch thousands of paper napkins in to the air while the disco classic “Love is in the Air” plays on capping off the evening. Krewe de Carnivale’ was established in 2000 by a group of friends that wanted to celebrate Mardi Gras in a slightly different manner, emphasizing the fun, enjoyable and carefree elements of previously attended celebrations.
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King Chaos XII and Queen Chaos XII Laura & Kurt Coleman with children Gunner & Neely.
Krewe of Chaos held its 13th annual Mardi Gras Ball on January 6 in the L’Auberge Lake Charles Ballroom. The year’s theme was “Chaos Goes Mad.” Chaos Krewe members and guests entered the ballroom through floral arches with iron tea cups, keys and greenery just as though they were walking through Wonderland. The evening started with Captain Kellery Barton welcoming the crowd and introducing Treasurer Scott Jackson; Float Chair Worth Shelton; Ball Chair and Co-Chair Amanda Meche and Candis McCaughey; Royal Court Chair and Co-Chair Karah Wilson and Reagan LeBoeuf; the Gumbo Cookoff Team Timmy Wilson, Bubba LaBove, Zak Barton and Dillon Coates; and Historical Chair Nicole Jackson. The emcee of the evening, Sam Reeves was introduced. He began by summoning 2017 Queen Gaea XI Shannon Hanson and 2017 King Chaos XI Sam Hudson along with the Royal Court to bid farewell to their Chaos members. The 2018 Royal Court was then introduced. “If I had a world of my own, everything would be nonsense.” The first Duke and Duchess of the evening were spotlighted on the dance floor with “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé. From DeRidder and Ragley, this Ace of Spade and Queen of Hearts both enjoy hunting, fishing, going out to dinner together, and attending LSU Football games. Married for nearly two years, this couple has three dogs named Lilly, Daisy Mae, and King Louie. When not having tea time together, our Duke is a student at McNeese State University majoring in chemical engineering and our Duchess is a process engineer at Ingevity. He graduated from Rosepine High School and she graduated from South Beauregard High School. Duke and Duchess of Mystery were introduced as Jillian and 24
John Mark Holliday. “I’m Late… I’m Late… for a very important date.” Our next Duke and Duchess entered to the tune of “Born to be Wild” by Steppenwolf. This couple is from Lake Charles and Vinton, and have been misbehaving together for 16 years. When this Duke is not wearing his best hat, and loving his beautiful wildflower, he can be found being a selfemployed consultant while she fills her day of shenanigans cutting hair at Studio Mane. They both enjoy fishing and watching their kids play sports. They enjoy the wild adventures in their own Wonderland with their children, Nicholas, 24; Nathaniel, 17; Noah, 14; and Jolie, 11. They are graduates of LaGrange High School and Vinton High School and have one dog named Cutie. Duke and Duchess of Mischief were revealed as Carol and John Gary. “I’m not crazy; my reality is just different than yours!” Taking the floor to “Let’s Go Crazy” by Prince, the third Duke and Duchess of the evening are residents of Vinton. This Cheshire Cat and Red Queen have been married for 10 years. They have two dogs, Baxster and Fiona and two cats, Duchess and Sebastian. When this couple is not painting the roses red, he’s a supervisor at Lyondell Basell and she is a hair stylist at Scarborough’s Salon & Day Spa. He is a graduate of McNeese State University and she is a graduate of Stage One, the Hair School. After causing chaos and commotion, he enjoys hunting, fishing, traveling and spending time with family and friends. She enjoys decorating and crafts. This TweedleDum even got thrown over a wall at Coachella. Duke and Duchess of Mayhem were introduced as Candis and Taylor McCaughey. “You’re MAD... Bonkers… Off your head… But I’ll tell you a secret... All of the best people are.” Our last couple hit the floor to the tune of “Crazy Train”
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by Ozzy Osbourne. Residing in Sulphur, this couple has been married for 8.5 years. She tumbles down the rabbit hole as a nurse practitioner at Calcasieu Urgent Care. For 13 years, he has enjoyed wreaking havoc as an operator at Citgo. This March Hare graduated from Sulphur High School in 2002 and Sowela Tech in 2004 in process technology. His Red Queen graduated from Sulphur High in 2004, McNeese State University in 2008, and received her Master’s in nursing from Northwestern State University with a concentration in family practice/nurse practitioner in 2011. They are as loyal as the cards with their 18month-old son Brock Mason and their dogs Ruger and Callie, Gertie the goat, and Bella the cat. When they aren’t gazing through the looking glass, they enjoy scuba diving, traveling, deer and duck hunting, trout fishing and noodling for catfish. Duke and Duchess of Madness were revealed as Kara and Randy Babaz. The Krewe of Chaos’ 12th Royal Couple entered the ballroom to the tune of “Bring ‘Em Out” by T.I./Swizz Beats while wearing Chaos custom collars adorned with white peacock feathers and robes of purple and white. King Chaos XII and Queen Chaos XII were presented as Laura and Kurt Coleman. Her Royal Highness is a stay-at-home mom. Upon graduation from Evangel Christian Academy in Shreveport, she attended Northwestern State University where she was a member of Tri Sigma Sorority. She enjoys volunteering with the PTA and Cotillion boards and she was a member of the Junior League of Lake Charles. His Royal Highness is an agency manager at Farm Bureau Insurance. A Northwestern State University graduate, he obtained a Bachelor’s of Science in business administration as well as a minor in marketing and finance. He enjoys hunting, fishing, sports, coaching his kids and barbecuing. The King and Queen have two children, Gunner, 13 and Neely, 11, along with a Golden Retriever named Duke. They have been married for 13 years and are co-owners of New Moon Driving Range and Portable Buildings. Music, sound and lighting were provided by Southern DJ Productions and Upscale Productions. Court Photography was taken by Sammy Stone and Ball Photography was provided by Abby Gros. Krewe of Chaos was chartered in February 2005 as a social organization with the sole purpose of bringing together family and friends to celebrate the merriment of fellowship year-round. February 12, 2018
Duke and Duchess of Mystery Jillian & John Mark Holliday
Duke and Duchess of Madness Kara & Randy Babaz
Duke and Duchess of Mayhem Candis & Taylor McCaughey
Duke and Duchess of Mischief Carol & John Gary
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The Krewe de Charlie Sioux Presents — Carnival of Curiosities Queen Siouxland XX Patricia Zimmer
The Krewe de Charlie Sioux was sanctioned by the state of Louisiana in 1997. That same year, Lake Charles and Sioux City officially became Sister Cities at a twinning ceremony in Lake Charles. Members consist of Sioux City, IA and Lake Charles residents. Each city has its own Krewe president and Ball Captain. Sioux City members come to Lake Charles for Mardi Gras and Lake Charles members travel to Sioux City the week of July Fourth and bring Mardi Gras to Siouxland in the form of a gala, parade and Zydeco concert. The purpose of the Krewe is to promote Mardi Gras and share cultural experiences as well as develop tourism in each city. This Mardi Gras season completes the 23nd year that Krewe members have traveled back and forth between the two cities, and the 20th year of presentation of a King, Queen and Court. This year, King Charles XX, Christopher Martin and Queen Siouxland XX, Patricia Zimmer, reigned over the Carnival of Curiosities festivities in Sioux City. Animal Trainer Captain Marty Pottebaum
Duke of Comedy John Chavanne
King Charles XX Christopher Martin
Ringmaster—Captain Dan Carlson Of Lake Charles 26
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Duchess of Spectacles Sara Morrow
Duke of the Apothecary Cornell Thomas
Duchess of Magic Shannon McSwain
Duke of Strength Kurt Peterson
Duke of Suspense-Roger Caudron Duchess of Fortune Mary Erdman Duchess of Contortion Julie Sampers
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Duke of Deception Danny Peschon
Duchess of Enchantment Melissa Peterson
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Krewe de Classique Travels Around the World in 80 Minutes
Krewe de Classique, founded in 1987, “Traveled Around the World in 80 Minutes” along with their guests. Their ball was held on January 27 at the Habibi Temple in memory of founding member Mrs. Delores Beaco and Mrs. Bonnie Jones. Five Debutantes started off the Presentation: Sheridan Mayo, Jada Patrice Williams, Camryn Nicole Sensley, Tai Coleman and Angel Michelle Price. After a brief history of the Krewe and Mardi Gras, Captain and Consort Dr. Karlnelius Duhon and Jasmine Cornett led the festivities. The engaged couple are both lifelong natives of Lake Charles and parishioners of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Ms. Cornett is currently in her last semester at McNeese State University in pursuit of her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree. Dr. Duhon practices Family Dentistry at Acadian Dental and SWLA Center for Health Services. The Duke and Duchess of Madrid, Spain were Mr. Frederick and Mrs. Geraldine Simonet. Mrs. Simonet has been a member of Krewe de Classique for 29 years. She retired after 33 years as a teacher for the Calcasieu Parish School Board, and is also the proud owner of her own tailoring business, where she is a full-time seamstress. Her son, Mr. Fredrick Simonet, has been a member of Krewe De Classique for 12 years. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Southern University and a Master of Science in Computer Science from Kansas State University. Duke Frederick is employed as a Software Architect at Geocent. The Duke and Duchess of Nairobi, Kenya were Mr. Robert Handy and Ms. Dionne Pickens. Ms. Dionne Thomas-Pickens attends and teaches vacation bible school at Christian Baptist church. Upon graduating from McNeese State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Child Studies, she attended the University of Houston Clear Lake where she received a Master’s Degree in Education Administration. Duchess Dionne presently works at Southwest Louisiana Charter Academy as the assistant principal. Mr. Robert Handy is a charter member of Krewe de Classique. He has a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Medical Technology and a Master’s of Science Degree in Environmental Science, both from McNeese State University. He has been employed at the Westlake Chemicals North facility for the last 42 years as an Environmental Engineer. The Duchess of Tokyo, Japan was Ms. Deborah Garriet. Ms. Deborah Garriet is also a charter member of Krewe de Classique. She is the proud mother of three: and the very proud grandmother of seven. She is employed with The Office of Workers’ Compensation Hearings. The Duchess of Honolulu, Hawaii was Dr. Anya Miller, who has been a member of Krewe de Classique for two years. Dr. Miller has been an educator for 19 years and is currently blessed to be the principal of John J. Johnson Elementary School. 28
King and Queen Classique 31st is Mr. and Mrs. Myron and Teneisha Wright. Mrs. Wright works at the District Attorney’s office in the Prosecutor’s Early Intervention Program. She also works at Cognitive Development Center where she counsels children and adults with mental health problems. Mr. Wright is currently a two-year employee of Union National Life Insurance, where he holds the position as a staff manager and sales trainer. The Royal Couple have been married for six years and have three children. They believe that with God in their lives, all dreams and goals are possible.
King & Queen Classique Myron & Teneisha Wright
Duchess of Hawaii—Dr. Anya Miller
Duke of Kenya—Robert Handy
Duchess of Kenya—Dionne Pickens
Duke & Duchess of Spain Frederick & Geraldine Simonet
Duchess of Japan—Deborah Garriet
Captain & Consort Karlnelius Duhon & Jasmine Cornett
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PHONE 337-602-6243 723 RYAN STREET, LAKE CHARLES February 12, 2018
Ph: 337-602-6772 2211 B Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
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Krewe of Cosmos Royal Masquerade Pageant & Ball The Krewe of Cosmos celebrated its 68th annual Mardi Gras pageant on Saturday, February 10, The Krewe is the oldest in Calcasieu Parish and has opened its pageant free to the public since it was founded in 1951. The pageant was held in the Sulphur High School auditorium. The Pages ushered everyone into the mystical Masquerade land where identities are masked, and friends become strangers until the grand unmasking. The pageant began with the National Anthem sung by Krewe member Joe Castro. The Merry Makers of the festivities came out to greet the crowd with music and beads to create the Mardi Gras atmosphere. This was followed by the recognition of the Board of Directors and Committee Chairs for the Krewe. The Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Mindy Darby. Next was the presentation of the night’s Royalty. The Captain of Many Faces took control of the evening as she led us through the celebration of the music and events as Cosmos celebrated the Royal Masquerade. With suspense at an all-time high, the gracious host and hostess for the evening of the Royal Masquerade Ball were prepared to be revealed. They were King Gregorius Gist Gremillion, Michael Field and Queen Victoria Elise Galena, Mary Jane Field. The 2018 Cosmos King and Queen are both natives of Sulphur, proud Sulphur High graduates of the Class of ’73 and McNeese State University graduates. They have been married for 42 years and are honored and blessed to be parents of two wonderful daughters. Their blessings multiplied with the addition of four beautiful granddaughters and one lone grandson. King Gregorius (Mike) retired from the Louisiana State Police after 30 years of loyal service and is presently employed by the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office as a Courtroom Bailiff. Queen Victoria (Mary Jane) is a retired Registered Nurse who dedicated 28 years to the nursing profession and has been a caretaker of her family and friends for the past 13 years. The King and Queen have been loyal members of the Krewe of Cosmos since 1991. Both have served as Krewe officers and committee chairpersons of numerous committees over the past 27 years. Both Mike and Mary Jane are active members of St. Theresa Catholic Church where they serve in various church ministries and are involved in the ACTS Community. Mike is a member of the Knights of Columbus and Mary Jane is a certified Spiritual Director. Captain Henri Opal Idell Bernard was revealed as Henrietta Akers. Originally from Lacassine, she has been a resident of the Sulphur area for over 30 years. She is married to Wayne Akers and combined they have seven children and 19 grandchildren. Wayne and Henrietta are members 30
of St. Theresa Catholic Church in Carlyss where she sings in the choir. Henrietta made her ACTS Retreat in 2010 and has been an ACTS Retreat Member for seven years. Henrietta has been a cosmetologist for 50 years and was the proud owner of Henrietta & Co. for 25 years. She currently works at Studio K Salon and Spa in Sulphur. Henrietta has been an active member in the Krewe of Cosmos for 26 years, she is a charter member of the Krewe of Athena. She has served Cosmos as secretary, treasurer, and vice president, and Wayne and Henrietta were Duke and Duchess of Cosmos in 2003. For Athena, Henrietta has been a Krewe representative for three years. She was Duchess of Athena in 2009 and was Captain of Athena in 2013. She has worked diligently behind the scenes for many years in both Krewes serving as Chairman of Pageant and Ball Decorations, Chairman of the Royal Courts, and Merchandising Chairman. She has also been a Cosmos jester for numerous years. She is truly a Dame de Nombreux Visages, a Lady of Many Faces. The Duke and Duchess of Versailles, Duke Robert Claude de la Croix and Duchess Sophia Amelie de la Croix were Theresa and Dr. Lyle Stephenson. The Duke is a native of Sulphur and a graduate of Sulphur High School while the Duchess is a native of Baton Rouge and a graduate of Central High School. The Duke graduated from LSU with a BS in Biochemistry and received a medical doctorate from LSU Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, where he did Pediatric Residency in 2014. He is currently on staff at the Pediatric Center of Southwest Louisiana and is a member of the Calcasieu Parish Medical Society and Louisiana American Academy of Pediatrics The Duchess is a graduate of LSU and has a BS degree in secondary education for English language arts. She is employed by Calcasieu Parish School Board and works at Sam Houston High School as an English teacher. She is a member of the English Inservice Planning and Curriculum Committee for CPSB. The Duchess loves working out with Warrior Boot Camp and game night with friends. The couple have two sons. The Duke and Duchess attend Henning Memorial United Church where they serve as facilitators of the Grits and Grace Adult Sunday School Class. Theresa is a member of the Daytime Education Committee and Scholarship Committee at the church. Lyle and Theresa have been in the Krewe for three years and were Jesters in 2017. The Duchess of Noirmoutier, Cosette Margot la Tre’moille, was Megan Murphy. Duchess Megan lives in Lake Charles and is a graduate of St. Louis Catholic High School and McNeese University. She has been employed at the St Nicholas Center for Children for the last four years as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and is a member of the Texas Association for Behavior Analysis. She attends St Margaret Catholic Church and has been a Krewe member for five years. The Duke and Duchess of Orleans, Louis Philippe Joseph d’ Orleans and Louise Marie Ade’laide de Bourbon were Rich and Debbie Lee. The Duke was born in Bastrop but
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grew up in Sulphur as did the Duchess. They are both graduates of Sulphur High School and McNeese State University. Rich worked for Lee Hospitality Services for seven years, S&W Management as COO for 10 years and has been General Manager at LaQuinta Inn/Suites for the last three years. He has a total of 48 years in the Hospitality Industry and is past president of SWLA Lodging Association and BSA- Calcasieu. The Duchess worked as a special ed and kindergarten teacher for the Calcasieu Parish School Board and has been retired for seven years. She was a Brownie Leader, Cub Scout Leader, parent volunteer in school and wardrobe volunteer with the High School Drama Club. She is a member of the New Neighbors Club, and Sewing Ministry with First Baptist Church in Waco, TX. The Duke and Duchess are parents to three children. They have been Krewe members for five years and Jesters for two years. The Duke and Duchess of Marseilles, Duke Gaston Jean Baptiste and Duchess Marie de Bourbon were Mike and Melanie Morris. The Duke, a native of Creole, graduated from South Cameron High School and attended McNeese University. He has worked in the oil and gas industry for 28 years and is currently employed with Cheniere Entergy. The Duchess is a native of Sulphur and a graduate of Sulphur High School. She has a Bachelor’s of Science Degree from McNeese State University and has been employed with the Calcasieu Parish School Board for 20 years. The Duke and Duchess have three children. They attend St. Theresa Catholic Church where they are active in the choir, Knights of Columbus, in both the Men and Women ACTS ministry and the Bon Ton Festival. The Duke and Duchess have been Krewe members for three years, have been Jesters, ride in the parades and chaired the annual membership party. After the King, Queen, and Royal Court were presented, the costumed Jesters came out to entertain the crowd. After the unmasking of the Royalty, Krewe members and their guests attended the grand Royal Masquerade Ball at the West-Cal Event Center. Mike & Melanie Morris
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Rich & Debbie Lee
King Gregorius Gist Gremillion, Michael Field & Queen Victoria Elise Galena, Mary Jane Field.
Captain Henri Opal Idell Bernard Henrietta Akers Theresa & Dr. Lyle Stephenson
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Megan Murphy
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The Krewe du Couillon Presents ... A Night to Remember Masquerade Ball The Krewe du Couillon celebrated their A Night to Recounting. A charter Krewe member Masquerade Ball on January 20 at the VFW Hall member, Dana is also the on Lake St. The Ball was set in a town with a New Orleans Krewe Reporter. influence. Guests entered through a grand entrance with The Krewe’s 2018 Debumasks that led the way into a wonderment of Mardi Gras. tante is Taylor Elizabeth Street mimes, dancers and jesters added to the ambiance. Fink, the daughter of The 2018 Royal Court was then presented, beginning with Rachelle and Steven Fink of Queen Sherrie Tingler and King Greg Bertrand. Queen Iowa, Louisiana. Sherrie was dressed in purple to signify justice, for a Queen Royal entertainment was must be just. The daughter of Kay Trahan and the late Jesse provided by Stefani’s Front & Center Dance under the direcTrahan, she is originally from Lafayette and moved to Lake tion of Stefani Royer from Sulphur. Some fabulous costumes Charles 22 years ago with her two children. She has three were provided by Medearis’ Costumes at 2619 Ryan Street. beautiful grandchildren. Sherrie has been with the HightThe Krewe extends a special thank you to Jason Carroll with Doland Allstate agency for three years. Sherrie has been a Monsour’s Photography for taking the amazing Court photos member of the Krewe since 2015 and currently serves as the at the bayou location. Decorating Committee chair. Krewe du Couillon was founded in 2009 with family values King Greg Bertrand was born and raised in Westlake, in mind. The members’ families are invited to events such as where he graduated from Westlake High School. He went to family fun days, potluck dinners and cruising the Caribbean. Louisiana State University where he obtained a degree in conThey believe in giving back to their community. struction management, and works for APTIM Power Maintenance as director of operations. Greg has one daughter and two grandsons. Greg has held numerous board positions in the community and supports the Make a Wish Foundation, White Tails Unlimited and Ducks Unlimited, along with most youth programs. He became a member of Krewe du Couillon in 2015. Captain Ruby Red, Jessica Doucet was in red as the fiery Lady keeping all in order. Jessica was born and raised in the Lake Charles area and is the single mother of three girls. Captain Jessica has been working in childcare for over 15 years and is the assistant director of Kids Kastle Christian Daycare. She has been a Krewe member since 2016. Emerald Duchess Alisha Ashby wore green to signify faith, as Royalty must have faith on their side. Duchess Alisha is originally from Baton Rouge and relocated to the Lake Charles area about eight years ago. She and her husband Kevin have nine children and two grandchildren. Alisha has worked for the Hight-Doland Allstate Agency since moving to the area. She has been a Krewe member since 2016 and is the Krewe Secretary. Duchess of Gold, Dana DeJaynes, wore gold to signify power, as every queen needs to have power at her hand. Duchess Dana was born and raised in Kansas and moved to Louisiana in 1999. She and her husband Richard have two boys and six grandchildren. Dana’s current position at Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is District Court King Greg Bertrand & Coordinator over court write up and collections. She is a breast cancer survivor four years and Queen Sherrie Tingler. 32
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Left to right Above and below minus the King—Duchess of Gold—Dana DeJaynes, Emerald Duchess—Alisha Ashby, King Greg Bertrand, Queen Sherrie Tingler & Captain Jessica Doucet.
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Triple Crown Queen Tina Baus & Jerry Baus.
Triple Crown King Derek Cormier & Nicole Cormier.
Krewe de Gratin’s 6th Annual Mardi Gras Ball celebration was held at Delta Downs on January 20. The Krewe celebrated in Kentucky Derby Style! The Kentucky Derby is the oldest continuous sporting event in America and was celebrated with a Krewe de Gratin twist.
The Triple Crown Queen was Tina Baus. Married to Jerry Baus, they live in Sulphur and have three children, Tylor, Layna and Parker. The Queen is the administrator for Tri-Parish Therapy Group and loves to spend time with her family along with exercising and watching Netflix.
Triple Crown King was Derek Cormier. King Derek is married to Nicole Cormier and they live in Vinton. He is a Louisiana State Trooper and in his spare time he likes to hunt, fish, golf, go to the gym, cook, enjoy his fireplace and hang out with his beautiful wife.
The Duke of Derby was Troy Landry. Married to Mary Landry, they have two sons, Taylor and Evan and a daughter Emily and live in Orange, TX. Duke Troy works at Colonial Pipeline and enjoys hunting and watching his children play sports.
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The Duchess of Derby was Lainie Jackson. Married to Jerry Jackson, they have two daughters, Maegan Dixon (husband Anfernee), Geri, and one grandson, Jax, and live in Orange, TX. Duchess Lainie is a lab technician at ExxonMobil and likes to attend college and pro football games and travel with her family to their favorite place, Disney.
The Duke of Preakness was Ritchie Vassar. Married to Shawn Vassar, they live in Vinton and have three children, Gannen, Jake and Emily. Duke Ritchie is a surveyor at Hargrove Engineering in Port Arthur and loves spending time with his family and friends. The Duchess of Preakness was Paula Tindal. Duchess Paula lives in Vinton and has two boys, Will and Adam. She teaches at Vinton Elementary and loves spending time with family and close friends.
Duke of Preakness Ritchie Vassar and Shawn Vassar.
The Duke of Belmont was Dustin Dupre. Duke Dustin lives in Vinton with his and his fiancĂŠe Falina Mendenall. They have one daughter, Pressley. Dustin is a pipeline operator and enjoys spending time with his family. The Duchess of Belmont was Kim Maggio. Duchess Kim was escorted by her brother, Carlo Maggio. Kim lives in Sulphur, and has two children, John and Samantha. Kim is a project manager for Kronos, Inc. a company out of Boston, and loves to celebrate life with her family and friends. In only a short time, the Krewe is growing! They participated in the Vinton Parade & Gumbo Cook Off on February 3, and in Lake Charles, the Gumbo Cook Off on February 10, the Children's Parade on February 11, the Royal Gala on February 12, and will be in the Krewe of Krewes Parade on February 13. They love to celebrate and have a great time with their Krewe family. February 12, 2018
Duchess of Preakness Paula Tindal.
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Krewe Des Amis celebrated its 38th year on Saturday, January 27 in the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum. The theme for this year’s ball was “The Hero in All of Us.” The venue was transformed that night for Krewe members and guests to celebrate this year’s Mardi Gras season. The 2017 Royal Court was introduced for the final time: King and Queen Chris and Lauri Ford and their Dukes and Duchesses, Brandon and Erin Shoumaker, David Stutes and Angel Scott, and David and Heather Ritchie. The first 2018 Royal Couple, Damon and Jessica Lebato, were introduced as the Duke and Duchess of Superheroes. Duke Damon attended McNeese State University where he earned an Associate degree in science and a degree in plant process and drafting. He is a DCS Operator for Cheniere LNG. Duke Damon is a member of the Knights of Columbus and enjoys hunting and fishing. Duchess Jessica has a degree in early childhood education from McNeese State University
and is a pre-kindergarten teacher at Our Lady Queen of Heaven School. She is a member of ACTS and McNeese Alumni Association and enjoys reading, fishing and travelling. The couple reside in Lake Charles and have two children, Cody (13) and Kyle (9). They are members of the Seven Slot Society Jeep Club and attend Christ the King Catholic Church. Our next Duke and Duchess representing Everyday Heroes were Brian and Courtney McCain. Duke Brian holds a Bachelor’s degree in accounting from McNeese State University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. A Certified Public Accountant at Gragson, Casiday, and Guillory LLP, he enjoys sailing, playing guitar at church, spending time at the family camp, and coaching soccer for Calcasieu Soccer Club. Duke Brian is a member of the ACTS community, a member of the Yacht Club and is also a member of the AICPA. Duchess Courtney has a Bachelor’s degree in accounting from McNeese State University and is a compliance
King & Queen of 2018—Brad & Nicole Posch 36
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auditor for the Calcasieu Parish School Board. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, Bible studies, spending time at the family camp, going to the beach, and sailing. She is a member of the Yacht Club and the ACTS Community, and both she and Brian are members of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church. They live in Lake Charles and have two children, Ruth (8), and Sophia (5). The next Court couple to appear were Duke and Duchess of Military Heroes, Christopher and Mia Primeaux. Duke Chris holds a Bachelor’s of Science in nursing from McNeese State University and is the director of inside sales for Waitr. A member of the Knights of Columbus, his hobbies include spending time on the water, hunting, fishing, snow skiing, and spending time with his children. Duchess Mia attended both the University of Massachusetts and Salem State University, where she earned a Bachelor’s of Art in psychology and a Bachelor of Science in nursing. She is a Registered Nurse in the recovery room at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. Duchess Mia enjoys hanging out with family and friends, volunteering, and travelling. She is a member of St. Margaret School Board, Praying Saints at St. Louis High School, and the 39 Club at OLQH. The couple resides in Lake Charles and have four children, Victoria (22), Noelle (21), Jullian (16) and Aiden (15). They attend St. Margaret Catholic Church. The King and Queen of 2018 finally made their appearance. Brad and Nicole Posch emerged to meet their family and friends. King Brad attended McNeese State University, where he earned a degree in criminal justice. A sales engineer for Crane ChemPharma and Energy, he is a Kappa Sigma Alumni, a member of the ACTS community, Founder of the Pelican Coast Parrothead Club, and a SLC Little League board member. He enjoys playing golf, hunting and travelling with his
Duke & Duchess of Super Heroes—Damon & Jessica Laboto February 12, 2018
boys’ baseball teams. Queen Nicole also attended McNeese where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in education and is a teacher at Our Lady Queen of Heaven School. She is a Chi Omega Alumni, a member of the ACTS community, an OLQH Lector, and a member of the Domestic Church. The Queen enjoys working out, reading and spending time with her boys. The couple reside in Lake Charles and attend Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. T hey have two boys, Jackson (14), and Ethan (12). They also serve on the Krewe Des Amis Board as the Social Chairs. The Krewe then toasted the Royalty and were treated to a final promenade by their Court. Then it was time to party with music by Chinatown. Photography was done by Gary Meeks; all costumes and mantles were designed and made by Kevin Hodges.
Duke & Duchess representing Everyday Heroes—Brian & Courtney McCain
Duke & Duchess of Military Heroes—Christopher & Mia Primeaux
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Krewe Déjà Vu du Monde Presents …
Krewe Déjà Vu du Monde held their 29th Ball on January 13 at the Lake Charles Civic Center. The theme was Tour of Italy en Masque. Master of Ceremonies Gayle Marshall presented the hard-working board of directors: President Tom Price, VP of Operations Julie Babineaux, Krewe Rep Katherine Petty and Advisory Board Member Jennifer Gill. He then called on the 2017 King and Queen XXVIII, Rob Littlejohn and Wendy Lambert and their Court, Mike and Susan Inscore Ricardo and Victoria Olivarez and Michael Martin and Jennifer Barry Gill to make their final promenade. The 2018 Captain was George Jacobson as The Gondolier. After being dethroned from 2016 and sent back to reality, Captain George was forced to live the normal life again. He has been an active member of Krewe Déjà Vu du Monde and Krewe de Charlie Sioux while working at his 9-5 banking job. This past year, he decided to take the next step in his life adventure and relocate back to his roots in Sioux Falls, SD. He is now trying to readjust to the cold and this stuff they call snow. However, when the opportunity arose to represent this year’s Court as their Captain, he most graciously accepted and made the 15-hour drive to Lake Charles to party with the best Krewe in SWLA! King Dan Carlson and Queen Michelle Elliott were the King and Queen of Venice XXVIV. King Dan Carlson grew up in a small town in Iowa and moved to the Lake Area 10 years ago. He is a paramedic and is currently employed with Prime Occupational Medicine as the assistant site manager for the Cameron LNG project in Hackberry. He does 38
set-up and training at his company’s other clinic locations, traveling as far as Sioux City, IA to complete a project there. He has been active in several different Krewes and attended various Balls, and he says that Krewe Déjà vu du Monde is by far one of the best Krewes to belong to! Queen Michelle was born and raised in the Lake Area and is a graduate of Sam Houston High School. She has a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and Master’s degree in gerontology from the University of Louisiana Monroe. She has been employed by California Commercial Investments Group as their service coordinator administrator for the past seven years. Michelle and her husband Tim reside in Moss Bluff with their two daughters. Danie’l Jernigan was the Duchess of Tuscany. Born in Alexandria, she has lived in New Orleans and Colorado and has been living in Welsh for the past 11 years. She has a Bachelor’s degree in English literature from the University of New Orleans and a Master of Arts in teaching with a certification in educational leadership. Duchess Danei’l is an English teacher at Lake Arthur High School. She has one son. Courtney Craft was the Duchess of Milan. Born and raised in Lake Charles, she has a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education with middle school math certification from McNeese State University. She has been employed by the Calcasieu Parish School Board for 11 years and is currently teaches math and is in charge of the dance lines at her school. Duchess Courtney lives in Moss Bluff with Brandon and their three children. Trinity Cline and Jennifer Cline were the Duke of Bo-
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Tour of Italy en Masque Courtney Craft Duches of Milan
Captain George Jacobson The Gondolier
King & Queen of Venice XXVIV Dan Carlson & Queen Michelle Elliot
Jennifer Cline Duchess of Rome
Danie’l Jernigan Duchess of Tuscany
Trinity Cline Duke of Bologna
logna and the Duchess of Rome. Duke Trinity was born in Fort Riley, Kansas. He lived in Lake Charles for 14 years, left for the military for eight years, and returned in 2012. He graduated from McNeese State University in 2014 with a Bachelor’s of science in agriculture. He is a table games dealer at the Golden Nugget. He and his wife Jennifer have been married for eight years and are involved with medieval reenactment with the Society of Creative Anachronism (SCA). He has two daughters. Duchess Jennifer is from Beaumont, TX and has lived in Lake Charles since 2012. She graduated from the University February 12, 2018
of Mary Hardin-Baylor in 2005 with a Bachelor’s degree in special education, and received her Master’s in education with an emphasis on low-incidence disabilities from Texas A&M in 2010. She taught special education for 12 years and currently works on the Autism Team for the Department of Special Services for the Calcasieu Parish School Board. She has one daughter and one stepdaughter. Sound and music were supplied by Deep South Productions, with photography by Jason Carroll Photography. Special thanks to John Chavanne for his fabulous costumes!
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Celebrates 35 Years
The 35th annual Krewe du Lac Mardi Gras Ball, one of the few costume-only balls in Lake Charles, was held on Saturday, February 3, in the Buccaneer Room of the Lake Charles Civic Center. Krewe du Lac members, without fail, display some of the most interesting, timely, and ingenious creations of any Krewe in the area. Captain Colvin LeDoux, who reigned as King Charles du Lac XI, served on the Krewe’s board of directors for a number of years before assuming the role of Captain from John Thibodeaux, the founder of Krewe du Lac. Colvin, a retiree of ConocoPhillips, and his wife Pam, a retired elementary school principal, enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling, and working on home projects. They are members of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church and Trinity Baptist Church. After 15 years of service, Captain LeDoux will be giving up his Captain duties following Fat Tuesday of this year. He will pass on his Krewe Captain title to Mr. Chris Owen, but will continue to be a hard-working Krewe member. 40
Captain LeDoux, along with the Krewe’s dedicated Board of Directors, Joan Bloomfield, Mickey Connor, Keith Green, Jon LaFleur, Alicia LeBlanc, Donnie Martin, Robbie Ortego, Chris Owen, Robyn Settoon, and Celeste Stephens strive to ensure that Krewe du Lac members enjoy fun-filled activities throughout the year. Don Menard serves as the webmaster for the Krewe, and Brenda Wilkinson and Debbie Carlin are advisors to the Royal Court. Serving as emcee for the night’s presentation was Mr. John Paul Timpa, a skills development specialist at First Federal Bank of Louisiana. He and his new bride, Jenna, are proud owners of their rescue dog, Roxy. John started off the evening by introducing the first royal pairing, Duchess Angelica XXXV and Duke Andrew XXXV. Duchess Angelica XXXV, Mitzi Comeaux Vincent, appeared in an aqua dress which featured a high neck bodice which was fully encompassed with white lace and shimmering beads. A full, floor length A-line skirt was made from pleated tulle fabric and featured a beaded waistband. Mitzi is the daughter of John Comeaux, of Ville Platte, and Sybil Soileau,
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of Moss Bluff. A graduate of Eunice High School, she received Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from McNeese State University She is married to Craig Vincent and together they have six children. The couple attends St. Theodore Catholic Church in Moss Bluff. During her career as an educator, Duchess Angelica has taught elementary and middle school students, as well as pre-service educators. In addition, she has served as a technology facilitator for the Calcasieu Parish school district. Mitzi is a past school level Teacher of the Year and was named Educator of the Year for the Louisiana Association of Computer Using Educators. She has been an active member of professional organizations such as Louisiana Association of Educators and Louisiana Science Teachers Association. She currently teaches sixth grade science at S.J. Welsh Middle School. Duchess Angelica enjoys traveling, fishing, reading, and social networking. She and her husband enjoy leisure time spent camping, McNeese tailgating, and attending festivals that involve listening to music and dancing. Duke Andrew XXXV, Mark Allen LeJeune, is a 1979 graduate of LaGrange High School. He is the son of the late James B. LeJeune (Jimmy) and Barbara LeJeune. Duke Andrew and his wife, Cyndi, are residents of Moss Bluff. Mark is the service manager at Robert Landry’s Service Tire Pros. A lifelong resident of the Lake Charles area, the Duke serves as the cooking team leader for the Pelican Coast Parrothead Club and is a member of the Buccaneers of Lake Charles, Calcasieu Boat Club, Southwest Bass Club of Lake Charles, and the Buckstop Hunting Club. Duke Andrew and Cyndi enjoy traveling, club activities, boat cruises, and pool parties with friends. Next to be presented were Duchess Caroline XXXV and Duke Edward XXXV. Duchess Caroline XXXV, Jody Gover, made her Royal appearance wearing a bright red, sparkling tulle ball gown featuring a bateau neckline, beaded motif details on the bodice, a basque waistline, and eyecatching lace-up ribbons on the back. Jody is the daughter of the late Carroll Fox, the late Charles Morgan, and JoAnn McDonald Morgan and is the daughter-in-law of William and Gillian Gover. This Court member is a graduate of Barbe High School and holds two Bachelor degrees from McNeese State University. A medical technologist at Christus Lake Area Hospital, Jody is married to Peter Gover. They are the parents of three children and are active at Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School. A charter member of Lake City Baptist Church, the Duchess is also a board member for the Lake Charles Symphony and is involved with the Wild Beast Feast, as well as other community fundraisers. Duchess Caroline enjoys traveling, which has led her to visit favorite destinations such as England (Peter’s home country), Italy, Mexico, and the island of Eluethera in the Bahamas. Duke Edward XXXV, Eric Zartler, is a 1992 graduate of Lacey Township High School in Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey and graduated from Full Sail University, Winter Park, Florida, in 1994. The son of Joseph and Simone Zartler, the Duke is a graduate of the Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College, where he received his Tourism Marketing Professional Certification and is a 2016 graduate of the Louisiana Tourism February 12, 2018
Leadership Academy. A resident of Lake Charles since 1996, Eric is the father of two children. He is currently the sales director at the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau. He received the LHSAA Super Sport Award in 2012 and in 2013 was named to the Thrive Magazine’s “13 Thriving 30 Somethings” list. Eric is currently the vice chair/chair elect for the Louisiana Pirate Festival. Previously, he served as a board member and as vice president for the McNeese Cowboy Club. The Duke was awarded the Louisiana High School Coaches Association Distinguished Service Award in 2016. When Duke Edward has leisure time, he can be found somewhere near a sporting event. He enjoys coaching his children in softball, baseball, basketball, and football. A former LHSAA basketball official and LHSAA football official, Eric received the 2011 Charlie Taylor Award and was assigned that same year to officiate the 2A State Football Championship in the Superdome. The Duke also enjoys spending time with his friends, family, and his girlfriend, Allison Glaesmann. The final couple to be presented was Queen Katherine XXXV, and King Charles du Lac XXXV. Queen Katherine XXXV, Penny Donovan Rajewski, made her grand entrance wearing an off-white ball gown. A lace bodice and illusion bateau neckline added romance and enchantment to the tulle creation. A unique illusion lace back featured cascading keyholes, while a Swarovski crystal-embellished belt added a touch of sparkle. The gown was completed with covered buttons over a zipper closure. Queen Katherine, the daughter of Joyce Donovan of Scott City, Kansas, and the late Carl Donovan, is a graduate of Dighton High School in Dighton, Kansas. She is married to Michael Rajewski and they are the parents of two children. Penny has been employed by First Federal Bank for 25 years and currently works as a loan processor. She and her husband are members of Christ the King Catholic Church. Queen Katherine serves as the treasurer for the Sulphur Mines Theater and has performed small parts in various theater productions. Other free time activities enjoyed by the new Queen are going to the gym, Zumba, traveling, fishing, and reading. Queen Katherine’s greatest joy is her and Mike’s children and grandchildren. They enjoy taking their grandchildren to the zoo, playing, and simply spending time with them. King Charles du Lac XXXV, Marshall LaFosse, is the son of the late Robert and Leona LaFosse. A graduate of South Cameron High School, King Charles du Lac is a resident of Grand Lake. He is married to Clarice LaFosse and they are the parents of two sons. Formerly the owner of Cameron Hose and True Value Hardware, he is now the owner/operator of E5 Construction. The newly coronated King Charles du Lac is a member of Krewe des Pirates, Lake Charles Buccaneers, and the Pelican Coast Parrot Head Club. Marshall currently serves as the club auditor for the Calcasieu Boat Club. In his free time, King Charles du Lac enjoys cooking and entertaining friends and family, as well as spending time on his boat “Seas the Day.” With the sound of the Captain’s whistle, this fun-loving Krewe danced to the sounds of the New Orleans band, “Mixed Nuts.”
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La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinaire Presents PRINCE: THE LEGEND On February 10, La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinaire celebrated 23 years of Royalty with PRINCE: THE LEGEND. Mr. Nora Popillion emceed the Ball with his smooth voice. The night started off with a soulful rendition of The National Anthem recorded by the very talented Ms. Sheila E. The color guard was presented by the precision formation of the Washington Marion High School ROTC. The 2018 Royal Court was led by President Tara Metoyer and Ball Captain Carlos Metoyer. The Court consisted of Duke Jerome Guillory and Duchess Brandi Nixon, as they tantalized the audience with collars of navy blue, gold, and white feathers representing Prince’s hit song “When Doves Cry.” Duke Lance Deculus and Duchess Angela Deculus amazed the audience with collars of matching red, black and white feathers representing Prince’s hit songs “Little Red Corvette” and “Kiss.” Duke Carl Duhon and Duchess Leah Thibodeaux excited the audience with collars of black, orange, and blue feathers representing Prince’s hit song “Let’s Go Crazy!” La Krewe Des Gen Extraordinaire proudly presented their XXIII King Rellis Victor Chavis, Sr. and Queen Johnnie Belle Chavis as they bedazzled the audience with matching collars of navy blue, gold and exotic peacock feathers representing Prince’s hit songs: “1999” and “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World.” King Rellis is a lifelong resident of the historical Lake Charles neighborhood of Doghill. A graduate of LaGrange Senior High, Rellis wears many hats as a security guard at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, manager of his family’s Zydeco band, The Doghill Stompers and a prize-winning horse trainer of over 30 years. He has a great passion for music, as he was a founding member and longtime drummer for the legendary Zydeco band Boozoo Chavis and the Magic Sounds. King Rellis is a member of the Louisiana Quarter Horse Association and the Knights of Peter Claver, and is a parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, where he serves as a member of the ACTS team. Rellis is the youngest of six children of the late great Zydeco musician Wilson “Boozoo” and Leona Chavis. The King enjoys spending time with his family, training racehorses, making and playing music, especially the drums, and is a proud member of the Who Dat Nation. King Rellis dedicates this night in memory of his loving parents, the late Boozoo and Leona Chavis. Queen Johnnie Belle is a lifelong resident of Lake Charles. She is a graduate of Washington Marion Magnet High School, McNeese State University, and UCLA Head Start Management Fellows Program. Serving children and families has been her passion for many years. The Queen is the Program Director at Save the Children Head Start Jefferson Davis Parish. She attends Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church and serves as a member of the parish council and 42
assists in the youth ministry. She sits on the Board of Directors of the Louisiana Head Start Association and currently serves as vice treasurer. Queen Johnnie is also a member of Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, Knights of Peter Claver Fourth Degree, and is a member of National Association of University Women Jeff Davis branch. Queen Johnnie is lucky number five of six beautiful daughters of the late Johnny Lewis and Ruby Lewis. She lives by the motto “Why settle for being average, when you can be extraordinary?” Queen Johnnie Belle dedicates this night in memory of her father, the late Johnny Lewis. King Rellis and Queen Johnnie look forward to celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary in September 2018. They are the proud parents of three sons and two daughters. They are proud grandparents of 10 wonderful grandchildren. The Krewe hosted a champagne hour while guests socialized and enjoyed the elegant decorations by the talented Mrs. Sondra Hardy. The Royal Toast and Promenade preceded a night of Second Lines and Royal pageantry. Krewe members entertained guests with flashback performances by Ann Minor, Priscilla Adams, and Debbie Johnson, who wowed the audience as they performed Vanity 6’s “Nasty Girl” Charlotte Jones, Tara Metoyer and Dorothy Leger electrified the evening as they performed Sheila E’s “Glamorous Life.” And Carlos Metoyer finished the evening of entertainment with Prince as he performed “I Would Die for You!” Krewe members and guests danced the night away to the electrifying sounds of Hotline, a live band from Opelousas. The night was filled with awesome people, great music, Creole food and Mardi Gras excitement. Laissez Les Bon Temp Rouler!!! La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinaire was founded in 1995 and is composed of 36 extraordinary people from all walks of life, all dedicated to the festive Mardi Gras celebration. This Krewe of Extraordinary People has made a commitment to foster and promote this joyous celebration by participating in all Mardi Gras activities in Southwest Louisiana. La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinaire is in its 23rd year and looks forward to continuous Mardi Gras merriment in the spirit of the Mardi Gras Season!!
King Rellis Chavis and Queen Johnnie Bell Chavis
Duke Jerome Guillory & Duchess Brandi Nixon
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Duke Carl Duhon & Duchess Leah Thibodeaux February 12, 2018
Krewe de L’Ecore Presents Winter Wonderland Krewe de L’Ecore celebrated their annual Ball at the Habibi Temple on February 2 with a Winter Wonderland theme. Krewe de L’Ecore 2018 King and Queen were Michael and Penny Guidry. The King and Queen have been married for two years and are currently residents of Lake Charles. Michael is a life-long resident of Lake Charles where he is a carpenter for R&R Construction. He has one son, Joe Marshall, and loves spending his free time with friends and family. He also enjoys traveling as well as hunting, fishing, camping and being outdoors. Queen Penny was born in Houston and became a resident of Lake Charles 18 years ago. She has been working as an administrative assistant for the past 12 years. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her two children. In her free time, Penny likes trying new recipes and gardening. Duke & Duchess Daulton and Courtney Huber share the hometown of Moss Bluff and have been married for three years. They are proud parents to a one-and-a-half-yearold daughter, Lillian Kate. Duke Daulton is an honor graduate of McNeese State University where he earned his Bachelor’s in nursing in 2015. He is currently a Registered Nurse in Lake Charles Memorial’s ICU and is pursuing his Doctorate in nurse anesthesia. In his free time, Daulton enjoys the outdoors and is an avid hunter and fisherman. Duchess Courtney Huber is currently at McNeese State University where she is studying early childhood education and will receive her Bachelor’s this year. She enjoys spending her time with friends and family as well as the outdoor life with Daulton. The Hubers are currently residents of Moss Bluff and are members of Livingway Pentecostal Church. Duke and Duchess Garret and Tammy Baker are residents of Moss Bluff and have been married for 17 years. Together they are the proud parents of two children, Kristopher and Allison. Duke Garret is originally from Patterson, Louisiana and is graduate of Lagrange High School. He is currently the outside sales account manager for his company, Marco. Garret enjoys spending his free time with family and coaching youth sports in the community. Duchess Tammy is originally from Ragley and graduated from South Beauregard High School. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree from McNeese State University and went on to get her Master’s degree with Walden University. She has been the quality control supervisor at Carboline for the past six years. In her free time, Tammy enjoys traveling and shopping. The 2018 Debutante was Miss Alysia Paige Smith, the daughter of Ronnie and Jamie Smith. She is currently in her senior year at Iowa High School where she enjoys cheerleading, track and playing softball. She is a member of the Fellowship of Christian students as well as the 3.8 club. She is an excellent student who works hard and maintains a 4.0 grade point average. In her free time, Alysia enjoys time outdoors and fishing. February 12, 2018
King and Queen Michael & Penny Guidry
Duke and Duchess Daulton & Cortney Huber
Duke and Duchess Garret & Tammy Baker
Debutante Alisha Smith
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Krewe de la Famille Presents ... Road to OZ
Mangham, Louisiana; she graduated from Riverfield Academy in Rayville, Louisiana in 1980, attended NLU and received a BS in marketing from McNeese State University in 1988. Duchess Tricia is a sustaining Member of The Junior League of Lake Charles. The Duke and Duchess have three children. Representing Men of Heart was the Duke of the Tin Man, Duke Donald Starkovich. Representing the Orchards was the Duchess of the Apple Trees Debbie Starkovich. A 1965 graduate of Landry High School, the Duke graduated from McNeese with a Bachelor of Science in chemistry, and in 1977 he earned a Master’s Degree in environmental science. Duke Don first worked for the Calcasieu Sheriff's office. In 1981, he went on to Olin Chemicals, where he worked for 28 years as a chemist, laboratory superintendent, and environmental engineer. He retired in 2009. Duchess Debra Puckett Starkovich is a native of Lake Charles. She attended St. Charles Academy, graduating in 1969, and graduated Magna Cum Laude from McNeese State University in 1973 with a BA in elementary and special education, later earning a Master’s degree in elementary education and a certification in library science. Duchess Debra worked 28 years as a Calcasieu Parish School Board teacher and elementary school librarian and is now retired. Duke Don and Duchess Debbie have three children and 9 grandchildren. The Duke and Duchess have been married for 44 years and both attend St. Margaret Catholic Church. Representing the King of the Forest was Duke of the Lion, John Schnake. Representing Fields of Beauty was the Duchess of the Poppies, Allison Schnake. Duke John graduated from LSU in 2009 with a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, physics, and philosophy. He has also earned a Master’s degree in Computer science at the College of Charleston. A senior software engineer at Apcera, he taught physics for the Navy Nuclear Power School from 2009-2014.
Krewe de la Famille celebrated its 39th Annual Ball on Saturday February 3 at the Lake Charles Civic Center. The theme was Famille’s Road to Oz capturing the magic, fear, excitement, and intrigue of the story. The costumes reflected the fun associated with the settings and the characters. The President’s Award was presented by Anne and Dr. Lee J. Monlezun to Doug and Adele Hamer. The lovely debutantes were Sarah Nicole Cormier, Megan Elyse Hookanson, Brianna Angelle McBride, and Allison Calvert. Famille’s Captains Johnny “JJ” Johnson and Brigitte Johnson made a spectacular entrance, arriving in a hot air balloon and setting the tone for the evening. King and Queen Famille XXXIX, Ronald L. McGinley and Brianna Genevieve Facenda reigned over the evening’s festivities. King Ron is the founder of Angels of Southwest Louisiana, a critical element of the startup community of Southwest Louisiana. He is a 1968 graduate of Chapman University and earned a Masters of Business Administration from Golden Gate University in 1970. King Ron is father to Kelly, Michael, Sean, Kevin and Brianna. He is a member of the Air Force Association, American Legion, Kiwanis, Knights of Columbus, Serra Club, Ancient Order of Hibernians, St. Louis Foundation, Angel Capital Association, and the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance. Queen Brianna Genevieve Facenda is a native of Los Angeles and currently lives in Lake Charles. Brianna is the daughter of our King and the late Brent Fenet McGinley. Her consort for the ball was fiancé Adam Benoit. She graduated from Saint Louis Catholic High School in 2015 and is currently attending McNeese State University. She has been invited to join the National Society of Leadership and Success. Brianna hopes to graduate in May 2020 with a degree in early childhood education, and will then seek her master’s degree. Queen Brianna is employed by the Children’s Museum and has been a member of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Church since 2007. Queen Brianna is a member of the SASOL Community Advisory Panel Board. The Royal Attendants were Ella and Hannah Manning and the Page was Luke Manning. Representing Knowledge is the Duke of the Scarecrow Duke Ricky Guidry, and representing the Munchkins and the Lollypop Guild was the Duchess of Munchkin Land Tricia Guidry. Duke Ricky is a native of Lacassine and is the former owner of Guidry’s Pharmacy in Iowa, LA. He is a 1979 graduate of Lacassine High School and a 1984 graduate of NLU with a BS in Pharmacy. In 1991, he earned the honor of Outstanding Young Pharmacist of the year; in 2002, he was the University of Louisiana at Monroe Pharmacy Alumnus of the Year, and in 2004 he was the Louisiana Independent Pharmacist of the year King Ronald McGinley & Duchess Patricia (Tricia) Ross Guidry is a native of Queen Brianna Facenda 44
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Duchess Allison Usher Schnake is a native of Lake Charles; she is the director of advancement at Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School. She attended LSU and has a dual degree in mass communication and vocal performance. She also has a Master’s degree in non-profit administration from the College of Charleston. Duchess Allison is a member of the Arts and Humanities Council Board of Trustees.
The Krewe is led by President Anne Monlezun, CEO Lee J. Monlezun, the Captains; Board Members Ricky and Trisha Guidry, Chuck and Karen Henderson, James and Diann Manning, Robert and Yvette Bradley, and Board Members and Krewe representatives Steve and Kelly Hagood.
Johnny & Bridgette Johnson Captain and Co-Captain
Ricky & Tricia Guidry
Donald & Debbie Starkovich
John & Allison Schnake
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Krewe of Good Times New Orleans Chicken Run The Krewe of Good Times celebrated their Ball on January 27 at the West Cal Event Center. The theme was New Orleans Chicken Run. The 2018 King and Queen were Chad and Samantha Vice born and raised in DeRidder, Samantha is the youngest of three siblings, and is named after both her parents, Sam and Lenda Smudricks. She graduated with honors from DeRidder High in 2001, and then moved to Sulphur. She attended SOWELA Technical Community College and graduated on the Dean's List in May 2008 with an accounting degree. She is now a bookkeeper at Gilbert's Carpet & Floors. Sam met Chad in 2007 playing washers at a friend's house, and the two fell in love. They will be married 10 years this October and have one daughter together, Melayna Ryan Vice, born January 10, 2014 (their miracle baby). Sam enjoys camping with family, friends and Krewe family, "doodling" on canvas and mud-riding with friends. King Chad, the son of Tina and Donnie Vice, was born and raised in Carlyss and is the oldest of his siblings. He is a 1994 graduate of Sulphur High School where he was a Golden Tors Linebacker (#51). Chad has a son from his previous marriage, Donald Luke Vice. He now works for Will Bros. Construction and has enjoyed traveling much of his life, seeing the United States from job to job. Chad enjoys camping with his family and friends and working to support his family. He and his Queen have an upcoming seven-day cruise planned for their family where they plan to relax and just enjoy their time together. He and Samantha are honored to be the King and Queen of the Krewe of Good Times. Captain Tony “JELLO” Roger is the son of Cleveland and Irene Roger. Raised in Sulphur and Westlake, he graduated from Westlake High in 1988 and now resides at his little slice of heaven on the river. He is the operations manager at Ashley Furniture. Tony lives and breathes for his two daughters, Tori, 22, and Laci, 20. He has been a member of the Krewe of Good Times for the past three years and he loves that his Krewe family enjoys passing a good time just as much as he does. His favorite pastime is spending time with his daughters and hanging out with friends. He is known as JELLO because he makes THE BEST jello shots around! The following Duke and Duchesses made up the 20182019 Royal Court. Duke and Duchess Chris and Kim DuBard. Duke Chris was born and raised in Moss Bluff and Duchess Kim was raised in Sulphur. They have been happily married for 16 years and have two amazing boys. Alex, 15, is in the 9th grade at Sam Houston High, where he is a member of the band. Josh, 13, is at Moss Bluff Middle School where he is a member of BETA, Science Club and the band. Chris enjoys hunting and spending time with his wife and children, while Kim enjoys teaching and spending time with family and friends. The Duke and Duchess have been members of the Krewe of 46
King and Queen Chad & Samantha Vice Gent Duncan Good Times for six Fontenot & Debutante years now. Their entire family are very Christian active members and Fontenot want you to know that the Krewe of Good Times is the best damn Krewe around! Duke and Duchess Neal Hollowell and Peggie Dando Duchess Peggie hails from the Calcasieu area, graduating from Barbe High School and later going on to Louisiana Tech. GO BULLDOGS! But she eventually graduated from LSU. GO TIGERS! Peggie has traveled around the world and has visited 34 countries so far. For the past 18 years, she has been a realtor and property manager for Century 21 Bessette. For all of
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Krewe of Good Times Royal Court your real estate needs, Peggie is your go-to gal. Duke Neal was born in Shreveport and raised in Lafayette, and currently resides in Lake Charles with his fiancé, Peggie. Neal graduated from Northside High School and later went on to ULL. He recently earned his MBA. Neal is currently contracted to the Department of Defense, where he provides IT support to the U.S. Army. The Duke and Duchess enjoy sharing every part of their lives together, which includes cooking, traveling and scuba diving. They belong to the Lake Charles True Blue Watersports Dive Club. On Nov 23, 2016, they were diving in Fiji when Neal asked Peggie to marry him. They are set to marry in late 2018. Duke and Duchess Jimmie Lee and Barbara Victorian Duke Jimmie and Duchess Barbie are residents of Sweet Lake. They will be married for 18 years on May 13. Together they have four children, one daughter-in-law, one son-in-law, six grand children (three boys and three girls), and #7 coming in April -- another granddaughter! Jimmie Lee has been employed by Sentinel Transportation for 25 years and Barbie has been employed by Bobcat of Lake Charles for 20 years, where they are both truck drivers by trade. Their family attends Grand Lake Faith Temple Church. They enjoy cooking and eating, but most of all they love to spend time with their family and friends. Gent Duncan Fontenot February 12, 2018
Duncan Christopher Fontenot, 17, is the son of John and Joanne Fontenot. He is a senior at Sulphur High School where he is enrolled in gifted and AP courses. After graduating high school, Duncan will attend the University of Louisiana at Monroe where he will major in English and business with a minor in music. He was awarded an academic scholarship for his exemplary score of 33 on his ACT. He is the son of a founding member of the Krewe of Good Times and proudly represents the Children’s Krewe of Good Times. Deb Christian Fontenot Christian Hope Fontenot, 17, is the daughter of Natalie Nunez and Kent Fontenot and the stepdaughter of Christopher Nunez. She is a Senior at Sulphur High where she is the vice president of the Sulphur FFA Chapter. Christian will attend McNeese State University in the fall of 2018 where she will begin classes in pre-veterinary medicine. After finishing at McNeese, she plans to continue her education in veterinary medicine and hopes to one day open her own animal clinic for both small and large animals here in Southwest Louisiana.
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King and Queen of ZZ Top Frank & Peggy Webb
Krewe du Grande Bois Rocks! Krewe du Grande Bois held their 38th annual Ball on Friday, Feb. 9 at the Habibi Events Center in celebration of “Grande Bois ROCKS.” President Robert Goldman welcomed guests and turned the evening over to the Master of Ceremonies, Perry Comeaux. The 2017 King and Queen, Ray and Phyllis Babin, made their final promenade and the festivities began. Setting the stage for rock music was a live mystery performance by our talented Krewe member, Dudley Pitre. Perry Comeaux presented the guests with a parade of music scores and noted rock stars. The court was decked out in fully -blown rock attire and guitars wildly trimmed in Mardi Gras bling. Captains of Van Halen, Mike and Wanda Duran, opened the show. The Durans, married for 45 years, have two grown children and one granddaughter. Both retired, they are busier now with many activities. Wanda spent many years in education and is presently teaching at St. Theodore Holy Family Catholic School, Moss Bluff, where she and Mike are active members. Mike is a retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel and veteran of Desert Storm. He is also a retired Registered Nurse who held several titles at Moss Regional Hospital. Duke and Duchess Charles and Linda Dalgleish, The Doobie Brothers, danced out next. Charles is currently the 48
Krewe’s Vice President and is a three-time retiree: US Army Lieutenant Colonel; Utah Department of Corrections Senior Probation and Parole Agent; and, recently, as a Staff Officer for Congressmen Charles Boustany. Duke Charles is now a Commissioner for the Chennault International Airport, member of several veteran organizations and the Rotary Club. Linda is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lake Charles. Duke and Duchess Jason and Jill Crain were next to arrive on the scene as KISS. Moss Bluff natives Jason and Jill were high school sweethearts and have been married for 20 years and have two sons. An Eagle Scout, Duke Jason is currently store manager of Phone Zone in Moss Bluff. Duchess Jill worked in education for 21 years and is currently the Executive Master Teacher for the Calcasieu Parish Teacher Advancement Program. Duke and Duchess John and Rhonda Montou rocked the stage next, portraying the Rolling Stones. The Montous have been married for 34 years and have a son and daughter. Rhonda and John presently live in Ft. Worth, TX, due to a job transfer. Still members of the Krewe and having friends and family here, they travel to Louisiana often. Duchess Rhonda is in sales for Halo Branded Solutions and Duke John is a terminal manager for U.S. Oil. Duke and Duchess Lance and Valerie Waldmeier entered next impersonating the famous Aerosmith. The Waldmeiers are new members of our Krewe. They have four sons, two daughters, and nine grandchildren. Duchess Valerie is the Registered Nurse Coordinator at SOWELA Tech and a Nurse Practitioner at Lake Charles Calcasieu Oaks Behavioral Center. Duke Lance has been the Vinton’s Family Nurse Practitioner for almost 20 years. The couple attends Sulphur’s Houston River Baptist Church where Lance is part of the media team for church services. The presentation of the 2018 King and Queen of ZZ TOP, Frank and Peggy Webb, was the highlight of the evening. They actually had been on stage earlier, impersonating ZZ Top in perfect bearded disguise. Queen Peggy and King Frank are Moss Bluff residents and have been married for 18 years. They have been loyal members of the Krewe for the past 15 years. Frank is a Past President and they’ve both chaired several committees. They’ve also served on the courts of 2010 and 2014. Peggy worked for 20 years with the Placid Refining Company in Dallas and Baton Rouge and recently retired after eight years as the Nursing Support Coordinator at SOWELA Technical College. Frank has worked 32 years with Phillips 66 and is presently their Products Terminal Manager. He is a past member of the Calcasieu Parish Planning and Zoning Board for Moss Bluff and has been President for the Moss Bluff Civic Club, the Ward One Economic Development Board, and the Greater Lake Charles Rotary Club. Peggy and Frank belong to St. Theodore Catholic Church in Moss Bluff and are previous members of St. John Bosco Church in Westlake, where Frank was a Trustee and member of the Pastoral Council and Finance Committee. Frank and Peggy love spending time with family and friends and their two sons and three grandchildren. Queen Peggy’s royal gown was white satin with aurora bo-
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realis sequined appliques. Trimmings of sparkling Duke and Duchess of Kiss beads, elaborate pearls, and crystal rhinestones were Jason & Jill Crain displayed throughout the floor-length gown and long flowing satin train. The Queen wore an exquisite rhinestone/pearl crown with rhinestone-studded pearl necklace and matching earrings. King Frank’s white tuxedo and vest were covered in matching trim. His Frenchstyle crown complemented their matching fleur de lis scepters. Both mantles were a stately sight of silver and satin, braided brocade and repeated matching trim. They were a picture of traditional New Orleans Mardi Gras Royalty. After the pageant, appropriate presentations and toast by co-founder Pat Fontenot, and the Second Line Dance with a sea of umbrellas, The Louisiana Express Dance Band entertained everyone from there on. Duke and Duchess of The Rolling Stones John & Rhonda Montou
Captains of Van Halen Make and Wanda Duran
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Duke and Duchess of Aerosmith Lance & Valerie Waldmeier
Duke and Duchess of The Doobie Brothers Charles & Linda Dalgleish
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I Dream in Gold A Night in Black Hollywood
Krewe of Gumbo YaYa celebrated their Ball on February 3 in the Exhibition Room at the Lake Charles Civic Center. The theme was “I Dream in Gold; A Night in Black Hollywood.” Entertainment was provided by Shae Williams, The Voice Season 13’s Ignatious Carmouche and Dj Double S. Photography and videography were provided by Antwan Pettis and Steven Webb. The Krewe is proud to present their 2018 Royalty: the Queen of Soul, Stephanie Brown; the Duke and Duchess of R&B, Erik and Lacy Dalton; the Duchess of NeoSoul, Charlene Rosamore; the Duchess of Hip Hop, Courtnee Brown and Ball Captains Derryon Espree and Monique Wiltz. Krewe of Gumbo YaYa was founded in 2012 by a group of friends who had a deep love for Mardi Gras. Krewe of Gumbo YaYa’s mission is to serve the community with the best flavor of people in Southwest Louisiana! Queen of Soul Stephanie Brown
Duke and Duchess of R&B Eric & Lacey Johnson Duchess of Hip Hop Courtney Brown
Ball Captains Derryon Espree & Monique Wiltz
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Duchess of Neo Charlene Rosamore Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
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The Krewe of Illusions Presents — Eminence and Dynasties…Symbols of Elegance His Royal Majesty BrandRick JoS Levy King Illusions XXVIII and Her Royal Majesty Jacqueline “Jacki Su” Suzanne Ellis
Top Row: Charlie Spence, Jill Ledoux, Raymond Nicholas Mason, Jr. Middle Row: Sarah Spence, Jacqueline Ellis, BrandRick Levy, Donny King. Bottom Row: Brittany Harmon-Allen, Allen Anderson, Jr., Celia Jones, Alexis Currie. Photographer: Fleur des Lis Visual Imagery
The Krewe of Illusions 29th annual Mardi Gras extravaganza began at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, February 10 in the Rosa Hart Theatre. This year’s theme was Eminence and Dynasties… Symbols of Elegance
From the Royal Palace curtains came the Tang-Song Dynasties Oriental Monarchs. Allen Anderson and Britteny Harmon-Allen enchanted the crowd with their beautiful kimonos and rich symbols of the Old Tang-Song Era.
The curtains opened to the newly crowned King and Queen of Illusions, His Royal Majesty BrandRick JoS Levy King Illusions XXVIII and Her Royal Majesty Jacqueline “Jacki Su” Suzanne Ellis. The Royal Monarchs of the African Diamond and Pearl wore a unique Kenta fabric created from Kenya for their special occasion that was handstoned and sewn by the Royal Couple along with Kim Henry. Their traditional collars were adorned with hundreds of crystals and rich fabrics set with seafoam green, eggplant purple, ruby red and gold, and were banked in feathers of the same color.
The students from LaGrange High Theater Department brought to life the Aztec Dynasty with their rendition of “Move It, Move It,” from the Broadway hit Madagascar. The stage was set for the Aztec Rulers, Charlie and Sarah Spence, in their vibrant costumes with traditional Aztec adornments.
Representing The English Dynasty as the Queen of Queens was Celia Jones. Her costume of vibrant purple and gold wowed the crowd. Next, Jill Ledoux did a splendid job giving the audience a view of Scottish Royalty. Her sons joined her onstage and she was escorted by her husband. Trumpets then sounded and the stage was set for a Roman Toga “House Party” like no other. The Ruler of Partying was in the building as Raymond Nicholas Mason represented the Roman Dynasty. His costume was a traditional toga draped in rhinestones and cording, and he carried the laurel wreath as a token of loyalty. February 12, 2018
As the night swiftly moved to a close, the Persian Monarchs were introduced by a Bollywood presentation. Donny King and Alexis Currie entered on a Persian warship and greeted the crowd with costumes fit for the most dramatic dynasty there ever was. The show culminated with The Royal Promenade, where all the members and Major Costumes were brought back for a final bow. At the show’s completion, the Krewe and their guests Second-Lined to the Exhibition Hall, where everyone danced to the jamming sounds of Big E’s Entertainment. This production was supported by the Krewe of Illusions’ Board of Directors and all the members who worked as performers, dancers, singers, scriptwriters, backstage hands, sound supervisor and technical masters.
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Krewe de la Louisiane Presents — Krewe de la Louisiane celebrated their 16th Anniversary Ball on Saturday, February 3rd, at the West-Cal Event Center in Sulphur. It was a formal event where the krewe jesters provided a runway show dressed as pilots and flight attendants. The 2018 royal court wore costumes representing different countries outside of the United States with the theme being “Come Fly Away with Me”. The celebration began with the Ball Captain, John Thomson, posing as a Viking from Denmark. John grew up and resides in Sulphur. He was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in 1993 and spent four years working his way through the minor leagues. In 1997, he made his major league debut as a pitcher and continued as a starting pitcher for the next 10 years. Currently he is retired but spends his extra time helping the younger generation of baseball lovers learn the game. For fun, he enjoys socializing with friends, boating, camping, snowboarding and traveling.
His Royal Highness, King Louie XVI was Phillip English & Her Royal Highness, Queen Anne XVI was Judy English representing the country of Ireland. 52
The Duke and Duchess of Siberia were Randy and Russie Rogers. The couple reside in Lake Charles with their two dogs. They have been married for 17 years and have four daughters. He is the owner of R&R Services, a home remodeling and repair company. When not working for himself, helping our float master or building props for the ball, he enjoys grilling and hanging out with his wonderful wife, grandson, family and friends. She is a graduate of McNeese State University, where she is a member of the MSU Alumni Association “Go Cowboys”. With a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, she is the Office Manager at Rosewood Nursing Center and serves on the Krewe Board as Ball Co-Chair, Secretary and handles our social media on Facebook. In her spare time away from work or a Krewe Board meeting, she enjoys scrapbooking, crafting and the company of her friends and family. As if these two are not busy enough. He is also the head of maintenance and remodeling, where he works for the best boss in town, his wife, who is also the owner of “Bayou A Dress For Less”. She sells new and gently used formal wear and accessories. Please stop by her new location behind McNeese on Common Street for your next formal event. Duke and Duchess William and Taylor Alexander represented Japan. Our Duke is originally from Alabama. He attended Auburn University where he played football for the Tigers until transferring to Faulkner State Community College then he received his bachelor’s degree from the Culinary Institute of America. For over 20 years, he has worked in the culinary industry as an Executive Chef, Corporate Chef and Culinary School Instructor. He is currently employed with Waste Water Specialty. For enjoyment, he is a member of the Harley Owners Group where he spends his free time riding his motorcycle with friends and other cycle enthusiasts. His hobbies include spending time with family, any type of fishing, watching HIS Tigers, Cubs and New Orleans Saints. Our Duchess is a homegrown Sulphur girl. She holds a Bachelor’s of Arts in Communication Studies from LSU (HER Tigers) and a Master of Science Degree in Communications from Northwestern University in Chicago. Following in her father’s footsteps, she is a Financial Advisor for Edward Jones in Sulphur and holds her Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor Certification. In the community she is President of the Sulphur Rotary Club, Secretary of Executive Board for Junior Achievement of SWLA, Board Member with the Arts and Humanities Council of SWLA and the Sowela Foundation, serves on the Magnolia LNG Community Action Committee and is a member of the Krewe of Athena where she chairs the Flamingo Bingo. She enjoys cheering on the LSU tigers, New Orleans Saints and
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Chicago Blackhawks. Her hobbies are spending time on the river, reading books, doing yoga and keeping up with an inordinate amount of podcasts. The couple have two children and attend Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. The Duke and Duchess of Brazil were Robin and Yvonne Jacobs. Our Duke has over 30 years of experience in the electrical engineering field. He even did some projects for Disney World. Currently, he is employed by Axiall where he works as an electrician. He has an electrical engineering degree from the University of Florida. His life enjoyments are fishing, hunting, camping and grandparent vacations with all the grandkids. Our Duchess retired from McNeese State University as the Human Resources Analyst. Go Pokes! Another entrepreneur, our Duchess is the owner of The Cajun Cookie Lady, a home based cookie business in Lake Charles. Check her out on Facebook and place a cookie order today! She loves being her own boss, decorating cookies, sewing, hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with her husband and their four grandchildren. His Royal Highness, King Louie XVI was Phillip English and Her Royal Highness, Queen Anne XVI was Judy English representing the country of Ireland. Our Royal couple bleed Sulphur blood. Both are Sulphur High Graduates along with their four children. Our Queen holds a Bachelor of Science degree from McNeese State University and was a member of the Phi Mu Sorority. She worked in the optometry field for over 20 years. She enjoys traveling with her husband, fishing and reading. Our King served the citizens of Sulphur as a law enforcement officer for 25 years. He retired as the Assistance Chief of Police. After retirement, he continued to serve Calcasieu and Cameron Parish as a Quality Assurance and Safety Professional assisting the Army Corp of Engineers in the cleanup efforts after Hurricane Rita. He continued to work in the field of safety until this year, when he decided to retire again. For enjoyment, he The Duke and Duchess of Japan were William & Taylor Alexander.
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hunts and fishes. They both are enjoying retirement and love spending time with their five grandsons. The Krewe toasted their 2018 royalty and kicked off the night performing the Second Line parade. Live entertainment was provided by the New Orleans Super Pop group “Bag of Donuts”. Special thanks to Deep South Productions for providing the sound and lighting, Simple Memories for the photography, our master of ceremonies Justin Morris, all the krewe members and guests for their attendance and lastly our hard working Board of Directors for laboring all year to make this krewe extraordinary. (Tab Finchum, Misty Finchum, Kari Felice, Russie Rogers, Monica Lafleur, John Watkins, Brandon Walker, Randy Favre and Arlette Gass) Krewe information can be found on our Facebook page – Krewe de la Louisiane. Ball Captain , John Thompson, posing as a Viking from Denmark. The Duke and Duchess of Siberia were Randy & Russie Rogers.
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The Duke and Duchess of Brazil were Robin & Yvonne Jacobs.
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munity as a member of the Junior League of Lake Charles. Ashley has been a Krewe member for four years and currently holds the position of the Krewe secretary. King Raphael XXX was Patrick Bordelon. King Patrick is a graduate of Sam Houston High School and resides in Moss Bluff. He is employed by Mark Dodge and works part time at Sam Houston High School. He enjoys drawing and hanging out with friends when he is not at Sam Houston helping out the coaches with anything they may need. Patrick has been a Krewe member for four years. The Duchess of American Beauty is Jordan BrooksRobinson. Jordan is a graduate of Sam Houston High School and attends Loyola University where she is majoring in graphic communication and art and belongs to the Alpha Chi Omega Sorority. She is currently employed as an administrator for Waitr. Duchess Jordan plays tournament soccer and is a member of the Future Business Leaders of America. She is currently working on the startup of her own graphic design and advertising firm. Jordan is the daughter of John and Bree Robinson. This is Jordan’s first year as a Krewe member. The Duchess of The Gladiators is Sydney BrooksRobinson. Sydney, a graduate of Sam Houston High School, currently attends LSU Law School and belongs to the Epsilon Phi Lambda. She is employed as an intern for Baton Rouge Academy and East Baton Rouge District Attorney’s office. Duchess Sydney is a member of Brothers Empowered to Teach Initiative and LSU tournament Soccer team. Sydney is the daughter of John and Bree Robinson. This is Sydney’s first year as a Krewe member.
Queen Evelyn XXX was Ashley Chisholm
The Krewe des Lunatiques celebrated its 30th Anniversary Mardi Gras Ball in the Contraband room of the Civic Center on February 3. The theme was Lunatiques Visits the Oscars. Krewe members and guests entered into a Hollywood celebration with all of the beautiful decorations done by Bree Robinson. Brandon Martin, Master of Ceremonies, introduced the hard workers of the 2017-2018 Board of Directors and elected officers: Ashley Bourgeois, Marion Bordelon, Mark Bordelon, Charlotte Kohlenberg, Heather Bourgeois, Jeremy Wood, Leslie Materne, Denise Hite, Tammy Cossey, Ashley Chisholm, and Bree Robinson. The evening’s festivities were underway with the sounding of the Captain’s whistle and a final farewell was given to King Raphael XXIX Jesse Hite and Queen Evelyn XXIX Denise Hite. The presentation continued with the arrival of Captain Charlotte Kohlenberg. A graduate of Sam Houston High School and McNeese State University, Charlotte resides in Gillis with her husband, Brian Kohlenberg. Charlotte is retired from the Calcasieu Parish School Board after 25 years and is currently employed at Holy Family Catholic School as a technology instructor. She has been a Krewe member for 18 years and is on the executive board. Queen Evelyn XXX was Ashley Chisholm. Queen Ashley, a graduate of Sam Houston High School and McNeese State University, resides in Moss Bluff with her husband, Casey. Ashley is employed by Adventurista Boutique where she is the boutique manager. She is also very active in our com54
Jordan Brooks-Robinson
Charlotte Kohlenberg
Sydney Brooks-Robinson
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Krewe de la Maison de Calcasieu Presents ... A Night Made for Music King Charles XVIII Ron Williams
Duke and Duchess of Cajun Music
Duke and Duchess of Disco
The Krewe de la Maison de Calcasieu celebrated its 19th annual Ball with “A Night Made for Music” theme. This year’s festivities were held on Saturday, February 3. The VFW on Lake Street was decorated in shimmering gold music notes and some of the most classic songs. Master of Ceremonies John Bridges welcomed guests and members to a night to remember. The Krewe said farewell to the 2017 “Maison Celebrates Louisiana” Royal Court. The Krewe crest was presented after the past Royalty took their last walk. Next, five debutantes were presented this season: Miss Alanna Cooper of Houston, Miss Alyssa Lyon of Lake Charles, Miss Randi Klein of Moss Bluff, Miss Alexandra Townsley of Moss Bluff, and Miss Jennifer Vidrine of Lake Charles. No night celebrating music could be complete without highlighting the music created in our own backyard: Cajun Music. The Krewe presented the Duke and Duchess of Cajun Music, Albert and Margaret Theriot of Lake Charles. Duke Albert works at W & T Offshore and Margaret works for Imperial Imaging as a scheduler. They have 56
been members of the Krewe since 2016. It was all platform shoes and bell bottoms as guests were presented with the Duke and Duchess of Disco, Ted and Sara Lyon. Ted and Sara are residents of Lake Charles. Ted works for Citgo as an operator while Sara works for Magnolia Property Management as a broker. The couple have been members of the Krewe since 2016. The VFW darkened and the crowd was greeted with a Minnie Pearl “Howdy” as the King and Queen of the Grand Ole Opry took everyone back to the old days of that venerable institution. Greeting members and guests for the first time as King Charles XVIII and Queen Catherine XVIII were Ron Williams and Rhonda Sullivan. King Ron is a retired major from the United States Air Force and is the volunteer executive director of the USS Orleck. Queen Rhonda is a retired United States Army and operating room nurse. Rhonda has been a member of the Krewe since 2000 and Ron became a member in 2013. Chosen to be the Captain for the 2018 Mardi Gras season was Marie Fruge of Sulphur, who dressed in black and carried a conductor’s baton as Madam Maestro. A clerk for Business Health Partners, she has been a member of the Krewe since its establishment in 1999. The night ended with a return performance from the Men of Maison. After a toast to the newly crowned Royal Court, members and guests danced the night away to the sounds of The Kadillacs.
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Debutante Randi Klein
Debutante Jennifer Vidrine
Debutante Alanna Cooper
Debutante Alexandra Townsley February 12, 2018
Captain Maestro Marie Fruge The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
Debutante Alyssa Lyons 57
On Saturday, January 27, Krewe du Masque held their 20th Ball. This year’s theme was “Krewe du Masque goes to Disney.” King Etienne XX was Marvin Berry and Queen Andrianne XX was Hope Berry. Duke and Duchesses were Matthew and Tina Lavergne, Brandon and Pattie Rathman and Kris and Joyce Hemker, with Jesters Troy Miller and Kortnie Babineaux. Krewe du Masque was started by Judy Gautreaux and friends, and the first Ball was held in 1998. We are a small, family-oriented Krewe, but we enjoy holding Balls and riding in the parade.
Laissez les bon temps rouler!!!! 58
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The Krewe of Mischief held its 5th Annual Ball on February 3 at the American Legion in Sulphur. The theme was Mardi Gras Masquerade. While Krewe of Mischief normally has a themed costume Ball, this year, to commemorate their 5th anniversary, the Krewe chose to have a formal Ball. Captain and founding member Mike Richard led the parade of founding members which included Co-Captain Melissa Richard, Co-Captain Celina Wilburn and Co-Captain Garland Holbrook.
Richard welcomed guests to the Ball and then recognized the 2017 Court as they made their final walk: Duke Mitchell Doget and Duchess Melissa Doget, Duke Jeff Landry and Duchess Shana Thibodeaux and King Devon Theriot and Queen Bridgette Culpepper. Finally the time approached to introduce the Royal Court of 2018 to members and guests. The first Court couple was Duke Dez Sims and Duchess Lora Rainwater-Sims. Duke Dez grew up in South Louisiana and is a graduate of Donaldsonville High School. He has spent most of his career as an Emergency Response Specialist in the petro chemical industry. When there are no emergencies, he enjoys spending time with family and friends. His hobbies include making music and playing a Native American flute and percussion Instruments. Duchess Lora grew up in Southwest Louisiana and is a graduate of Dequincy High School. She has spent her career in the petro chemical industry in the maintenance division as a pipe fabricator. Lora enjoys exotic travel, camping, hanging out with friends and family and any sunny beach anywhere. Dez is the parent of Dez and Brianca and Lora is the parent of Joshua and Kristy. Dez and Lora have been married for 16 years and have 11 grandchildren.
The next Court couple was Duke Kevin Young and Duchess Amy Young. Duke Kevin is a graduate of Sulphur High School and is the owner of Kevin’s Custom Cabinets, LLC. When he is not building something in his shop, he enjoys camping, shooting pool, enjoying time with his family and friends, sitting around the campfire and playing music. He is the son of Melvin Young and the late Mary Jane Young. Duchess Amy is a graduate of Westlake High School and is a full-time housewife. She enjoys decorating her home, camping, sitting by the campfire, and crafts. She is the daughter of Mary “Peaches” Benoit and the late Dale Benoit. Kevin and Amy live in Prairieville, LA and have been married for 24 wonderful years. They are the parents of Courtney Young, Devin Young and the late Shaylee ReAnn Mendenhall.
King of Mischief Garland Holbrook Queen of Mischief Trang Holbrook 60
Finally, it was time to reveal the 2018-2019 King of Mischief, Garland Holbrook as he escorted his beautiful Queen of Mischief Trang Holbrook. King Garland, the son of Linda Holbrook and the late Garland Holbrook, graduated from Barbe High Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
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School. Self-employed at Holbrook’s Lake Area Ice, Garland likes to grill and cook for his family and friends. Trang, also a graduate of Barbe High School, is the daughter of Tho and Chuc Tran. She has been in the dental field for 20 years and is employed by Dr. Richard Leblanc, D.D.S. Trang loves boating, fishing, cooking, crafting, working in the garden and spending time with family and friends. Garland and Trang have been married for 13 years and live in Lake Charles. They have two children, Gregory and Christien Leitl and four grandchildren; Asia, Tristian, Pippa and Layton. A toast was then made by all the founders and board members to the new 2018-2019 Royal Court. Jesters Devon Theriot and Jamie (Kalop) Vincent began the party with the Second Line as the Royal Court followed and invited guests to join in the dance to kick start a night of fun and excitement!
Duke and Duchess Kevin and Amy Young
Duke and Duchess Dez & Lora Sims
Krewe of Mischief 2018 Royal Court February 12, 2018
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KREWE OF MUSE OF OAKDALE
CELEBRATES 25 YEARS CRUISIN STYLE
Krewe of Muse with Debutantes Tori Eaves, Elizabeth Ann Lee, Macy Welch & Hailey Arnold The Krewe of Muse celebrated 25 years at the Mowad Civic Center on February 3. Guests were welcomed with the Grand March of the Krewe, introduction and March of Captains Matt and Cindy Dyer, and introduction of the King and Queen,Andy and Melissa Welch. Next, four debutantes were presented: Macy Elizabeth Welch, Hailey Nicole Arnold, Tori Lynn Eaves, and Elizabeth Ann Lee. After the Royal toast and Royal Dance, Krewe of Muse members entertained King Andy and Queen Melissa, followed by music by the band “Stormy.”
song, Kendall and Becky Johnson, Stephen and Kelly Johnson, Pat Jones, Craig and Susan Jones, Jack and Carolyn Kaleel, John and Ann Montanio, Delores Mowad, Bill and Susan Murry, Jim and Tiffany Murry, Dr. Patrick and Kelly Savoy, Sarah Shoemake, Andy and Melissa Welch, Penny and Rodney Welch, Jerrod and Jodi Wheat, and Keith and Christy Zimmerman.
2018 King and Queen Andy and Melissa have been married for 30 years. They are both graduates of Oakdale High School. Andy is the owner of Andy Welch Trucking which he has operated for 24 years. Melissa is a graduate of McNeese State University and is employed with HCA in coding management and has worked in various roles in the health information management field for 29 years. They are the proud parents of one daughter, Macy, who is a freshman at McNeese State University.
King and Queen Andy & Melissa Welch Captains Matt & Cindy Dyer
2018 Captains Matt and Cindy Dyer have been married for 34 years. They have three children and two grandchildren. Matt has worked for CenterPoint Energy for 36 years and Cindy has been employed by the Louisiana Department of Health for 33 years.
The Krewe of Muse enjoys year-round fun and fellowship. The Krewe members practice for weeks to provide a fun-filled performance honoring the King and Queen at the ball. Krewe members are Bobby and Nancy Abrusley, Luke Abrusley, Louis and Jane Anders, Guy and Angela Arnold, Dr. Gene and Diane Bacon, Joe and Phyllis Crawford, Rita Gordon, Jim and Pat Davidson, T.J. Davis and Nelda McManus, Judge Joel and Jenny Davis, Dr. Tommy and Marianne Davis, Tommy and Marlene Doucet, Matt and Cindy Dyer, Adam and Britani Hus62
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King and Queen Scott & Angela Stevens
The Carnivale of Venice was the theme for Krewe de la Noblesse’s 33rd Mardi Gras Ball held on Saturday, January 20, at the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum. The entrance was decorated with costumes from previous Krewe de la Noblesse balls. The Court entrance was replica of the worldfamous Rialto Bridge surrounded by delivery boats and water taxis. Other areas of the Coliseum were decorated with representations of the many well-known sites in Venice. The script was written by Krewe member Kristine Lyons and directed by Krewe members John Richards and Keith Fontenot. Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Mr. Dale Mann, with Deep South Productions providing the lighting and sound. The presentation began with the posting of colors by the United States Naval Sea Cadets Corps – Chennault Battalion and the singing of the National Anthem. The Krewe Board for 2017 - 2018 was introduced: Mrs. Valerie Norwood, President, escorted by her husband Kenneth Norwood; Mr. Anthony Vincent, First Vice President, escorted by his wife Mary Vincent; Mr. Mike Parr, Second Vice President, escorted by his wife Joy Parr; Mrs. Brenda Cimini, Secretary, escorted by her son-in-law, Rodney Russell; Mrs. Christine Fontenot, Treasurer, escorted by her husband, Keith Fontenot; and Mrs. Dorothy Conner, Krewe Representative, escorted by her husband, Tom Conner. The Royal Court for the 32nd Ball, “Sand, Surf, Sun, and Fun” was introduced – King Gabriel Noblesse XXXII, Mr. Paul Pounders, Queen Ashley Noblesse the XXXII, Mrs. 64
Sheila Pounders; and the Court, which was comprised of Duke and Duchess of the East Coast Beaches – Wayne and Sylvia Caraway and Duke and Duchess of the West Coast Beaches – Jim and Debbie Campbell. The 2018 Debutantes were presented to members and guests. Miss Laura Barnes is the daughter of Krewe Members Scott and Dawna Barnes. Laura is a graduate of Hamilton Christian Academy where she was 2016 Miss HCA and lettered four years in softball and basketball. She is currently a sophomore at the University of Alabama majoring in athletic training. She is a member of Phi Sigma Pi, National Honors Fraternity and Foundation in Excellence Scholar. Upon graduation Laura plans to attend Baylor University majoring in physical therapy. Laura was escorted by her father, Scott Barnes. Miss Virginia Faye Coberly is the daughter of Krewe members Scott and Bridget Boudreaux and granddaughter of Tom and Dorothy Conner. Virginia is a senior at Westlake High School where she is a member of the FBLA, Key Club, Yearbook Staff, Swim and Tennis Teams as well a member of the Student Council. Upon graduation, Virginia plans on attending McNeese State University and majoring in early childhood education. She attends St. John Bosco Catholic Church and has been a lifeguard for three years through the American Red Cross program. She was escorted by her stepfather, Scott Boudreaux. Miss Emily Fontenot is the daughter of Krewe members Mark and Laurie Fontenot. Emily is a senior at Lafayette High School and upon graduation plans on attending The University of Louisiana Lafayette majoring in family and child studies. She has been cheerleading from middle school to high school, in dance for eleven years, and is a member of the Young Life Club, the Link Crew, Student Parking Association, and Alpha Omega. Emily was escorted by her father, Mark Fontenot. Miss Madison Nell Fontenot is the niece of Krewe members Keith and Christine Fontenot and the daughter of Dennis Fontenot and Laura Peveto. Madison is a graduate of St. Michaels Catholic Academy where she was All State in Lacrosse and All District in Soccer. She is attending the Univer-
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Duke and Duchess of Merriment Brian and Jessica Guidry
Captain Joe Cimini
sity of Arkansas majoring communication disorders and is a member of the Tri Delta Sorority and Lacrosse Club Team. Madison was escorted by her father, Dennis Fontenot. Miss Lauren Nicole Novick is the niece of Krewe members Keith and Christine Fontenot and the daughter of William and Denine Moody. She is a graduate of Lamar High School where she was a member of the 4-H Club, FFA, and United States Pony Club. She is currently attending Lone Star College studying Veterinary Medicine and plans to further her education at Texas A & M. Lauren has received a C1 Certification with the United States Pony Club and is currently competing in nationally recognized Equestrian Completions and Rodeos. She was escorted by her brother, William Novick, III. Miss Jacey Morgan Royer is the niece of Krewe members Rex and Dina Royer and the daughter of Richard and Elena Esperanza Royer. Jacey is a graduate of DeQuincy High School where she received the TOPS scholarship, the DeQuincy Gardening Club scholarship and the Women’s Federated Club Scholarship. Her future plans are to pursue a career in nursing. She enjoys cooking, shopping, and spending time with family and friends. She was escorted by her uncle, Rex Royer. Leading our sojourn to Venice Italy to celebrate the Carnivale was our Captain, Joe Cimini. Captain Joe and his wife Brenda are residents of Lake Charles and are the parents of two daughters, Mrs. Laura Piercy and Mrs. Jo Ellen Russell. They are the proud grandparents of seven grandchildren – Jillian, Evan, Ally, Bethany, and Megan Piercy and Caleb and Sydney Gates. Joe, a graduate of West Virginia University, is retired from PPG Industries. He is President of the Board of Directors of the Banyan Resort in Key West, Florida. The Captain and his wife attend Our Lady Queen of Heaven Church and the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea. They are members of the Pelican Coast Parrothead Club and the Key West Parrothead Club and enjoy traveling and spending time at their home in Key West. Next, the Royal Court for 2018 was introduced. Representing the Merriment of Carnivale was Duke Brian Guidry and Duchess Jessica Guidry. Duke Brian, a graduate of Tara High School, is employed by Industrial Thermal Services. February 12, 2018
Duchess Jessica Guidry is employed by Big Easy Foods and has a B.S. degree in marketing and management from McNeese State University. In their spare time Duke Brian and Duchess Jessica enjoy fishing, boating, and LSU football. They reside in Sulphur and are proud parents of Courtlyn and Christopher Gremillion and Kaleb, Josh and Landon Guidry. Representing the Frivolity of Carnivale was Duke Mike Parr and Duchess Joy Parr. Duke Mike, a sales consultant for Mayflower Van Lines, attended San Jacinto Junior College and the University of Houston. He is president of the Louisiana Household Goods Carrier Association and a member of the Louisiana Motor Transport Association. He is an avid scuba diver, fisherman, and hunter. Duchess Joy Parr attended Iowa High School and is a retired Walmart department manager, she enjoys fishing, boating and the outdoors as well as cooking, floral design, and sewing. Duke Mike and Duchess Joy are the proud parents of Kim Jacobs, Mike Parr, Jr., Melissa LeBert and Dana Rodrigue. The audience was asked to stand for the arrival of King Gabriel Noblesse XXXIII, Mr. Scott Stevens and Queen Ashley Noblesse XXXIII, Mrs. Angela Fruge’ Stevens. The King, an electrician foreman at Turner Industries, is a graduate of A.M. Barbe High School and the U.S. Navy Aviation Safety Equipment and Aircrewman School and is a proud veteran of Operation Desert Storm. A member of the SWLA American Meteorological Society, the King enjoys ATV riding, cooking and gardening. The Queen is a graduate of SOWELA Technical Community College and is a Licensed Practical Nurse at Memorial Specialty Hospital. She enjoys participating in 5K runs for charity, crafts, cooking, and baking as well attending New Orleans Saints games. She is a member of Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and participates in the Cathedral Chorale. The King and Queen are parents of a daughter Mallory Kathryn, who is deceased. Following the traditional toast by the Royal Court, the Captain and Royal Court, along with Krewe member Tony Comeaux, led our annual Jazz Funeral March. Members and guests were invited to join in. The remainder of the evening was spent dancing to the music of Jet Seven.
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Krewe des Pirates “Yes, the rum is gone." "Why is the rum gone?" “Because it is a vile drink that turns even the most respectable Pirates into complete scoundrels.” "But why is the rum always gone?" “Yo Ho Ho and A Bottle of Rum, me Pirates. Tonight the rum is not gone – as yet!” These were the words of Master of Ceremonies Mike Guidry to a roomful of pirates just waiting to wreak chaos and have a good-humored evening dancing the night away to the Kadillacs on Saturday, February 10. Before the chaos began, eyes were on the 2017 court as they made their final promenade: Duke and Duchess Tim and Kelli Huffer, Duke and Duchess Kenny and Donna Elkins, King Pierre 7th and Queen Jacqueline the 7th, Shawn and Jessica Duhon along with Captain Johnny Duhon. Also presented were Krewe des Pirates Board Members: Presidentelect Shawn Duhon, Ball Chairperson Lottie Courvelle, Secretary Pam Harris, Treasurer Eddie Langley and Advisory Members Cherie Trahan, Raymond LeBlanc,
King and Queen Dean & Pam Harris 66
Chris Guidry and Karen Larocca. The pirates eagerly waited to meet their 2018 Royalty. First, Krewe President 2017-2018, Captain Manley Sims representing Captain Morgan Rum, was presented. Manley and his lovely wife Danna have been married since 2008 and reside in Orange, Texas. Manley has been a process operator at Goodyear Chemical in Beaumont, Texas for 18 years. He is a U.S. Army Veteran and served four years while stationed at Ft. Polk. Manley has been a member of Krewe des Pirates since its beginning in 2010 and has served as a board member for five years in various capacities. Manley and Danna served on Court in 2013 as the Duke and Duchess of Barataria Bay. As they say, Matey, “To not respect the power of the Beast of the blackest seas –Kraken--is to not respect the sea.” Chris and Cherie Trahan were presented as the Duke and Duchess of Kraken Rum. Chris and Cherie hail from Lake Charles and have been married for 24 years. They have one son, Colby, 13, who is their world. The Duke is a graduate of LaGrange High School, and went to work for Rowan Drilling Company when he was 19 years old. He started as a Roustabout and has worked through the ranks to Offshore Installation Manager. He is now assigned to a rig off of the coast of Trinidad. Chris enjoys hunting, fishing, and grilling in the backyard for friends and family, and he is a member of The Buccaneers of Lake Charles. Chris has participated in the ACTS retreat, and is a 3rd degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus. Cherie is a graduate of Barbe High School, and attended SOWELA Tech for graphic design. She is a stay-at-home mom who doesn’t actually stay at home. She holds a seat on the school board at St. Margaret Catholic School, substitute teaches, has served as Room Parent Coordinator, School Auction Chair, started a School Spirit Store, and is an assistant track coach. Cherie also serves as an advisory member of Krewe des Pirates, and was the Ball Chairperson in 2015 and 2016. The Duchess is also on the board for the Lake Charles Junior Cotillion. Cherie has trained in Taekwondo, along with her son, for eight years, and they both earned their 2nd degree black belts from Master Choi Taekwondo Institute. Cherie also trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra of Lake Charles where she recently earned her 4th stripe on her white belt she loves fishing, boating, paddle boarding, and vacationing in Florida. The Duke and Duchess also belong to the Pelican Coast Parrot Head Club, the Calcasieu Boat Club, the Calcasieu Gun Club, and are members of the NRA. They are also members of FARE and help to raise awareness for severe food allergies. The family are parishioners of St. Margaret Catholic Church. Pirates of the sailing days were occasionally women, as in the case of Grace O’Malley, a famous female sea captain who sailed around the Caribbean offering her services with three galleys of 200 fighting men. Perhaps this Pink Pirate Rum came to be because of her. Chad and Tonya Pousson were
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presented as the Duke and Duchess of Pink Pirate Rum. Duke Chad and Duchess Tonya have been married for 17 years and are both lifelong residents of Lake Charles. Both are graduates of Barbe High School; Chad attended McNeese and Tonya attended Sowela. They have five children and one grandson, and a Bassett Hound that thinks he’s a baby. The Duke and Duchess are co-owners of Pousson’s, Mr. Bill’s Seafood Express, and Mr. Bill’s Catering. Chad is the Vice President of the McNeese Cowboy Club and both are members of Ducks Unlimited, Delta Waterfowl and the Boat Club. Chad enjoys hunting and they both love fishing. When we think of rum, we think of the Caribbean, palm trees, coconut shells and sugar cane fields. Tonight we think of a gumbo of spices, alligators, cypress knees and sugar cane fields, and a rum that livens up everything. So laissez les bons temp rouler! The Duke and Duchess of Lousiana Spiced Bayou Rum were represented by Jason and Ashley Guillory. Married for 12 years, Jason is from Carlyss and Ashley is from Westlake, but they are currently Lake Charles residents. They have two sons, Nathan, 8 and Jase, 3. Jason is a graduate of Sulphur High School and Universal Technical Institute in Houston, while Ashley is a graduate of St. Louis Catholic High School and holds a BS in criminal justice and a MA in elementary education from McNeese. The Duke and Duchess are co-owners of Mr. Bill’s Seafood Express, Mr. Bill’s Catering and Pousson’s, and also own Jasash Rentals. Ashley has been a teacher for 11 years and is currently at Maplewood Elementary School. She was 2012 and 2016 LACUE Region 5 Elementary Teacher of the Year and 20152016 and 2017-2018 Maplewood Elementary School Teacher of the Year. Jason serves on the Board of Directors for the McNeese Cowboy Club. Both are members of Ducks Unlimited, Whitetail Unlimited and lifetime members of Delta Waterfowl. Jason enjoys duck hunting and Ashley enjoys crafting, and both enjoy deer hunting and fishing. There is a legend about a drink so imbued with the spirit of its uninhibited and charismatic creators that all who drank the potion would instantly possess such powers of personal magnetism that everyone would clamor to be in their company. The crowd of pirates rose
to their feet to meet the gregarious, enchanting and charismatic King and Queen of Black Magic Rum, King Pierre the 8th and Queen Jacqueline the 8th, Dean and Pam Harris. Pam and Dean are lifelong residents of Lake Charles and have been married for 11 years. Together they have four children and nine grandchildren. A graduate of Barbe High School, Pam has been a realtor with Flavin Realty for 18 years and is a member of the National Association of Realtors and SWLAR. Dean is a graduate of LaGrange High School and has been with Lake Area Plumbing for 28 years. Members of Krewe des Pirates since 2011, Dean served as Krewe Captain in 2015 and Pam has been on the board since 2012. Dean is also member of the Hawg Hunters Fishing Club and both are members of the NRA. Pam and Dean enjoy spending time with family and friends, boating, fishing and relaxing at their camp in Toledo Bend. The entire Krewe of Pirates stood and raised their glass as King Pierre the 8th proclaimed “Let us drain a goblet, twirl a can and shake a leg to our successes in the future! Drink up, me hearties!” Yo Ho Ho and A Bottle Rum for a jolly good time held that evening. ARRRRGGGHHHH! Duke and Duchess Chad & Tanya Pousson
Duke and Duchess Jason & Ashley Guillory
Duke and Duchess Chris & Cherie Trahan February 12, 2018
Captain Manley Sims The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
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Krewe de L’Possede Presents Once Upon a Possede Party
Duchess 2018 Tara Duff represented her childhood fantasies of beauty and magic as “Unicorn.” Tara was born in Lake Charles and raised in Sulphur. She has been married to Jonathan for 14 years and they have three children – Kailey, Aidan, and Paisley. Tara is a stay-at-home mom but always finds time for helping her father with his business. She loves to cook, clean, decorate, and travel. She has been a member of Krewe De L’Possede for four years. Duke 2018 Jonathan Duff represented his boyhood dream of being a Super Hero as “Duff Man.” Jonathan of the Clan Duff was born in Lake Charles and raised in Westlake. An 18-year employee of the local fire department, he holds the rank of Assistant Fire Chief. Jonathan is married to Tara Duff, heir to the famous “The Store, Inc.” fortune. They have three “Dufflets,” Kailey, Aidan, and Paisley. Jonathan is involved in the Westlake community where he is president of Westlake baseball and spends time coaching baseball, football and basketball. All his spare time is spent watching LSU sports and Astros baseball, spending time with his family and writing his own bio for Mardi Gras. Krewe De L’ Possede (Mischievous Children) was established in 2002 with the purpose of promoting the heritage and celebration
The Krewe de L’Possede held their 2018 Ball at the Burton Coliseum on January 20. Their theme was “Once Upon A…Possede Party.” The Krewe proudly presents their 2018 Royalty: King Darek Ardoin royally protected all from bad dreams as he represented “The Dream Weaver.” Darek has been happily married to his soul mate and Queen Stacie for 19 years. He has two children – Kailyn, 23, and Collin, 16. He has been a member of Krewe De L’Possede for four years and tagged along with Stacie to all the Krewe events for several years prior to joining. In his spare time, he enjoys hunting, vacationing and spending time with family and friends. Queen Stacie Ardoin royally showed us that all dreams can come true, but at what price? She represented the “Fairy Godmother.” Stacie found her “Happily Ever After” over 20 years ago when she met her King Darek. She has two children, Kailyn and Collin, who are her greatest accomplishments in her life. She has worked in dermatology as a medical assistant and office manager for the last 19 years. She joined Possede in 2010 and has been Captain Kim Dyer a Jester for seven years and served as Duchess in 2012. Stacie loves to travel and spend her time with her amazing family and friends and is always up for a quick trip to anywhere! Captain Kim Dyer represented the dark side of our dream world as “Nightmare.” Kim was born in Lake Charles and raised in Moss Bluff. She has been married to T-Ron for 21 years and they have three children, Brittany, Tanner and Colston. Kim has an Associate degree in Nursing from McNeese and is currently employed by Lake Charles Memorial Hospital as a Registered Nurse. Her hobbies include baking and decorating cakes. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, watching LSU and Saints football and taking mini vacations. Kim has been a member of the Krewe for 15 years and has served as a board member as well as Krewe de L’ Possede Queen in 2009.
Duke—Johnathan Duff
King Darek Ardion
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Duchess Tara Duff February 12, 2018
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Krewe De Ruckus Goes Under the Sea Krewe De Ruckus celebrated their ball February 2 at the West Cal Event Center in Sulphur. The theme was “Under the Sea.” Deep South Productions provided the entertainment and Trish Leger was the photographer.
Duke Ricky and Duchess Tammie Thomas have been married for 11 years and have four children. They enjoy hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends. This is their second year in Ruckus.
King Josh Thibodeaux, 32, is the son of Tony and Pam Thibodeaux. Queen Courtney Thibodeaux, 28, is the daughter of Charlie and Denise Moore. They were both born and raised in Sulphur and graduated from Sulphur High School. They have been married for seven years and have a daughter, Harvey Belle, 5. They enjoy fishing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends. They especially love causing a Ruckus with their Krewe family, which they’ve been a part of for three years.
Duke Noel Series and Duchess Megan Menard are both residents of Sulphur. They have been together for 18 years. They enjoy hunting, fishing and doing other outdoor activities together. Their favorite pastimes are cooking and spending time with family and friends. Captain Ricky LeJeune was born and raised in Westlake. He is married to Ashley LeJeune and they reside in Sulphur. Ricky is a store manager at Kroger and he enjoys spending time with his wife and children, craft beer, and the New Orleans Saints!
Krewe De Ruckus 2018 Royal Court 70
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Duke and Duchess Ricky & Tammie Thomas
Duke—Noel Series & Duchess Megan Menard
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King and Queen Josh & Courtney Thibodeaux with Daughter Harvey Belle.
Captain Ricky LeJeune
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King and Queen Jimmy & Julie Lopez Krewe du Sauvage celebrated its 15th annual ball on Saturday, January 20, in the Grand Event Center at Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino. It was a black-tie event where guests enjoyed music provided by Flamethrowers and Deep South Productions. Samy Stone provided photography. The theme for this year’s Ball was “Sauvage in Wonderland.” The Royal Court followed this theme by representing characters from the fantasy novels, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, both written by Lewis Carroll. All Royal Court costumes were designed and constructed by John Chavanne of Lake Charles. Sam Reeves and Ryan Abell served as Masters of Ceremonies. The evening began with the emcees welcoming a crowd of over 1,200 people to the biggest party in town. The 2017 “Purple Reign--A Tribute to Prince” Royal Court was introduced for the final time. The 2018 Royal Court presentation began with the introduction of Duke Pierre XIV and Duchess Anne XIV, Ter72
ry and Jessica “Lynne” Burrows of Lake Charles. They were presented in green, yellow and purple costumes representing “The Cheshire Cat and The Caterpillar.” Terry is the son of Russell and Penny Burrows of Lake Charles. He is a graduate of McNeese State University with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and is the business development manager at Polaris Construction. Terry is a member of the McNeese State University Athletics Hall of Fame, Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association, NAPTA and LCIA. He enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with friends and family. Lynne, the daughter of Bobby and Elaine Huddleston of Lake Charles, is a graduate of McNeese State University with an associate degree in nursing. She is a Registered Nurse and Bariatric Coordinator at Comprehensive Surgery Clinic and is a member of the Obesity Action Coalition. She enjoys running, shopping and spending time with family and friends. Terry and Jessica have three children, Elliott Burrows, Nicholas Davies and Brittany Michael. Representing “The Tweedles” in yellow, red and blue costumes were Duke Charles XIV and Duchess Elizabeth XIV, Ben and Brooke Hornsby of Lake Arthur. Ben, the son of Greg and Brenda Hornsby of Lake Arthur, is the owner of Hornsby Landscape, Benson Estates, LA Rush Sports and Southern Family Healthcare. He is a member of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance. Brooke is the daughter of Kim and Angela Broussard of Lafayette. She is a graduate of McNeese State University with a Bachelor of Science in nursing and also has a Masters of Science degree in Nursing/Health Care System Management from Loyola University. She is the Chief Nursing Officer at Jennings American Legion Hospital and co-owner of Southern Family Healthcare. Brooke is a member of the Louisiana Organization of Nurse Executives. The couple enjoys hunting, watching LSU sports and spending time with their children, friends and family. They have three children, Khye, Alivia and Hudson. Representing “The March Hare and Alice” in blue and gold costumes were Duke Louis XIV and Duchess Antoinette XIV, Kent and Rachel Johnson of Lake Charles. Kent is the son of Jake and Charlann Johnson of Lake Charles. He has a bachelor’s degree from McNeese State University and is a Forensic Investigator with the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Department. Kent is a member of the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association. He enjoys working in his yard and
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playing with his children. Rachel, the daughter of Ty and Pamela Schmieder of Baton Rouge, has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from McNeese State University. She is a Registered Nurse in the Cardiac Cath Laboratory at Christus St Patrick Hospital and is a member of the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. She enjoys yoga, reading and sleeping on her days off. Kent and Rachel are members of Trinity Baptist Church and have two children, Stella and Oliver. Representing “The Mad Hatter and Tea Party” in hot pink, black and gold costumes, were Duke Philippe XIV and Duchess Henriette XIV, Joe and Ashlee Milazzo of Katy, Texas. Joe is the son of the late Sam and Elisa Milazzo of Shreveport. He graduated from Southern Methodist University with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and an MBA. He is the Vice President of Marketing and Midstream Operations for Central Crude, Inc. Joe is a member of the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association and enjoys hunting, watching Texans football and traveling. Ashlee, the daughter of E. Stephen LeLeaux and Donna Ortego, both of Lake Charles, graduated from McNeese State University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. She works for Blair Inman & Co. and is a member of McNeese Alumni Association and Phi Mu Fraternity Alumnae Association. Ashlee founded Krewe du Sauvage and serves as Board President. She has also served as Captain and holds the honor of reigning as Queen Sophie I. Ashlee enjoys traveling, reading and tap dancing. Together, the couple has four children, Andrew and Alec Milazzo, Madeleine LeCompte and Campbell Lemons. Reigning over “Sauvage in Wonderland” were King Henri XIV and Queen Sophie XIV, Jimmy Lopez and Julie Sanders of New Orleans. Jimmy is the son of Jim and Babs Lopez of Opelousas. He graduated from LSU with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and then received an AA in culinary arts at the Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY. The CFO at Ikon Construction, Jimmy is a member of Louisiana Association of General Contractors, Delta Kappa Epsilon Fraternity Alumnae and an ordained minister of the Universal Life Church. He enjoys world traveling, competitive Mardi Gras throw catching and supporting LSU sports.
Joe & Ashlee Milanzzo February 12, 2018
Julie is the daughter of Roy and Jill Sanders of Lake Charles. She graduated from LSU with a bachelor’s degree in history and received a master’s degree in educationeducational technology from McNeese. She is a teacher at Haynes Academy in Jefferson Parish, and is a member of Jefferson Federation of Teachers and Louisiana Federation of Teachers. Julie enjoys winning Mardi Gras scavenger hunts, professional Jazz Fest-ing, yoga and world traveling. Jimmy and Julie are members of the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts Alumni Association. They have two rescued dachshunds, Scout and Little Frieda. Gena Richard Millslagle of Iowa serves as the Captain of Krewe du Sauvage. She is the daughter of Ivan and Linda Richard of Iowa. Gena has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from McNeese State University and Master of Science in nursing-nursing education from The University of Texas at Tyler. She is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the College of Nursing at McNeese State University. Gena is also a health care consultant with The Greeley Company. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International-Honor Society of Nursing, McNeese Alumni Association and Phi Mu Fraternity Alumnae Association. She serves as a Youth Group Leader at First United Methodist Church Iowa. Gena has served as President of the Krewe and holds the honor of reigning as Queen Sophie VIII with her late husband, Erik Edward Millslagle, as King Henri VIII. She has two sons, Luke Patrick and Jack Henry. Board members of Krewe du Sauvage include Terri Aubey, Donovan Dupuis, Scott Helms, Elizabeth Laughlin, Deanna Russell and Lisa Smith.
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Ben & Brook Hornsby
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A Decade of Revelry
Duchess—Tammy Ryan Representing 2016 A Night in Black and White
Queen—Leila Bordelon Representing 2014 A Night in Vegas Photographer Amy Brassette
Captain—Chelle Rankin Representing 2008 Black Tie Affair 74
Duchess—Kylie Faulk Representing 2015 Rock Star
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King—Todd Young Representing 2011 Hillbilly Heaven
Duke—Buddy Ryan Representing 2017 Masquerade
KREWE DES VOLEURS, “KREWE OF THIEVES”, WAS FOUNDED IN 2007 BY DAVID LAPOINT AND TODD YOUNGER. THE PRINCIPALS OF THE KREWE ARE GOOD FRIENDS, GOOD FOOD, GOOD FUN, A LITTLE THIEVERY MIXED In. this year we are celebrating “A Decade of revelry” by honoring the last ten years of fun, friendship and mischief. Also under King Todd Younger please add the year 2008 and 2018 representing Hillbilly Heaven theme 2011. FYI king and queen this year were our original king and queen in 2008.
Duchess—Bobbie Jo Johnson Representing 2010 80’s Theme
Duke—Russell Faulk Representing 2012 Roaring 20’s February 12, 2018
Duchess—Caline Pittman Representing Sinners & Saints The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
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BBBS SWLA FAQ Sheet Who is Big Brothers Big Sisters? • The nation’s oldest, largest and most effective volunteer youth mentoring organization • Big Brothers was founded in 1904 by Ernest K. Coulter and in 1977 was merged with Big Sisters to become Big Brothers Big Sisters of America • Nationwide network of approximately 370 affiliates serving more than 240,000 children • Create, facilitate, and professionally support one-to-one, long-term mentoring relationship for youth who face adversity • BBBS of SWLA began operations in 1979 under the umbrella of another organization and then separated to become Incorporated as an independent 501c(3) non-profit in 1984. What do we do? • Our mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever • We partner with parents / guardians, volunteers and others in the community and hold ourselves accountable for each child in our program achieving higher aspirations, greater confidence and better relationships while also avoiding risky behav-
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iors and achieving educational success Why are our services needed? • One of the building blocks of healthy development is an adult role model in the life of a child • Many children today are missing this figure due to situations of poverty and/or single household living status • BBBS-SWLA fosters success in children’s outcomes by providing a positive adult relationship through our volunteer mentors Who are the children we serve? • Youth, ages 6 to 12 years old, residing in Southwest Louisiana. • Enrolled through a parent/guardian or through a referral from a local school or agency • From single and two-parent homes and a variety of socio-economic backgrounds • The parent/guardian believes that their child could benefit from the presence of an additional caring adult in his/her life • Permission must be given from the parent/guardian in order for the child to participate. What is our Impact? National Research has shown that positive relationships between Littles and their Bigs have a direct and measurable impact on children’s lives. By participating in our programs, Little Brothers/Sisters are: • More confident in their schoolwork performance • Able to get along better with their families • 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs • 27% less likely to begin using alcohol • 52% less likely to skip school • 81% reported that it changed their perspective on what they thought possible in life.
Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
February 12, 2018
Introducing — Krewe du Couillon Debutante Taylor Fink Picture bellow ….
Advantage Plumbing, LLC Phone 337-496-6701 We offer Residential, Commercial and Industrial plumbing Services With advantage plumbing on the job, you can count on a professional and hassle free solution to your plumbing needs. A new name for the same reliable plumbing service I have provided for over 20 year.
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Phone: 337-474-2020
www.hightdoland.com February 12, 2018
The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
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Clark Benton Clark Benton graduated from Barbe High School and McNeese State University and is a Certified Athletic Trainer working at X-Cel Therapy in Moss Bluff, as well as on the sidelines of Calcasieu Parish high school sports for Lake Charles Memorial Hospital Sports Medicine. The father of two daughters, Allison and Alexandria, he enjoys spending time out on the trails in his Jeep. He’s a member of the Seven Slot Society of SWLA and is a Duke this year in Krewe de Bien Faire.
Marshal of the Merchants Parade Mike Giles Mike Giles started Mike’s Dive Center in Lake Charles in 1999. The oldest dive shop in SWLA, they specialize in scuba instruction ’Master Scuba Instructor license’, dive trips and retail sales and are an authorized e’uipment repair center. He has been a member of Krewe de la Noblesse since 1990 and was a Duke 1992, King in 1996, and Vice President 1996-98. He’s a past member of Commemorative Air Force ’restoring and flying WWII aircraft’ and a past member of Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and Experimental Aircraft Association. Mike is a national member of Single Action Shooting Society and the local club, Up the Creek Gang. His hobbies include hunting, fishing, competitive shooting, motorcycle riding and photography. 78
Grand Marshal of the Krewe of Krewes Parade Belinda “Bea’ Hebert The Krewe of Krewes Parade is dedicated to the loving memory of Bea Hebert, who died November 29, 2017 in her residence after a courageous battle with cancer. Bea was a lifelong resident of Lake Charles. She attended McNeese State University and worked at PPG (Axial) for 37 years as the Supervisor of Records. She continued to work throughout her treatment, retiring a year and a half ago due to her illness. She had a passion for charity work which included chairing galas for the American Cancer Society, as well as the American Heart Association. But, Mardi Gras always had a special place in her heart. Bea was a very active member of the Krewe de La Famille, where she and her husband Scot served as Captains for seven years and was also active with the City of Lake Charles Mardi Gras Board, serving as president for a number of years. Her spirit lives on in the joy and fantasy that is SWLA Mardi Gras.
Jambalaya News — Special Mardi Gras Edition
February 12, 2018
February 12, 2018
The Jambalaya News—Special Mardi Gras Edition
79