from the EDITOR...

It's carnival go-time — cue the beads, masks and ball gowns! And, 2023 Mardi Gras promises to be bigger and better than ever. How do we know? Access spent countless hours with local royals, leading ladies and more. With infectious enthusiasm, they could hardly contain their excitement for the season and all their special plans. The day we spent with the court members from Mobile Carnival Association and Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association was more than memorable as we brought the courts to the court — a tennis court — for some tongue and cheek fun. Seeing the two courts mix, mingle and giggle was as sweet as a MoonPie, and the ladies we’re such good sports. Climbing around the USS Alabama Battleship was another highlight we will not soon forget. A local treasure, we highly recommend getting onboard and checking out all the fun and fascinating history it has to share. Plus, the History Museum of Mobile will soon welcome their new exhibition, Dressing the Abbey, and we couldn’t be more excited. Fans of hit television series, Downtown Abbey, as well as local history, fashion and society devotees, will not want to miss this. Showcasing costumes from the show and their private collection, this exhibition will keep the celebrations going long after Fat Tuesday. Plus, local artist, B’Beth Weldon, and Ashley O’Brian share their latest adventures. Whew! Enjoy and happy Mardi Gras!

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2023

VOLUME 90 NUMBER 81

PARTY PICS

A winter formal and behind the camera carnival scenes.

MARDI GRAS SPECIAL

Meet MCA and MAMGA Royals, Leading Ladies and more.

DRESSING THE ABBEY

The History Museum of Mobile has done it again! An Exhibition sneak peek Downton Abbey fans will love.

TRADITIONS & TRANSITIONS

Local Artist, B’Beth Weldon, opens up about her new inspiration and exhibition.

LIGHTS BY THE BAY