Gumbo (February 2015)

Eagles are the theme in Morgan City FEB. 2015

Tableaus PARADES DAYS LAISSEZ LES BON TEMPS ROULEZ! www.facebook.com/ GumboEntertainmentGuide

The Official 2015 Mardi Gras Guide

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PUBLISHER Brian Rushing

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Gavin Stevens

SALES DIRECTOR Marian Long

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Shell Armstrong

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mariella Brochard Alanna Relan

SALES Harold Cancienne Jeff Paisley Elizabeth Porche Deanne Ratliff

CONTRIBUTORS Jean-Paul Arguello John DeSantis Richard Fischer Casey Gisclair

GENERAL MANAGER Lacey LeBlanc CIRCULATION Brooke Adams

6160 W. Park Ave., Houma, LA 70364 (985) 868-7515 Fax (985) 873-9009 www.gumboguide.com The Gumbo Entertainment Guide is a free publication.

The entire content of this publication is copyrighted by Rushing Media, with all rights reserved.

Reproduction or use, without written permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. The Gumbo Entertainment Guide is published monthly by Rushing Media.

On the Cover: A float navigates Main Street in Houma Mardi Gras Day. Locals will again flock to Lafourche and Terrebonne streets for this month’s 17-day Carnival season.

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Editor’s Picks

COURTESY

The Harlem Globetrotters at the Smoothie King Center (Feb. 22) in New Orleans and “Harvey,” starring Perry Martin, at the Bayou Playhouse (Feb. 27 through March 27) in Lockport will entertain locals in the coming weeks.

Pelicans continue the chas Throughout February

Now, if you’re interested in basketball games where the finish isn’t pre-determined, the New Orleans Pelicans welcome several notable opponents to the Smoothie King Center this month – starting out with the hottest team in the league Feb. 2, the Atlanta Hawks.

The Oklahoma City Thunder (Feb. 4), Chicago Bulls (Feb. 7), Utah Jazz (Feb. 9), Indiana Pacers (Feb. 11), Toronto Raptors (Feb. 23), Brooklyn Nets (Feb. 25) and Miami Heat (Feb. 27) also take on the Pels in the Big Easy this month.

Purchase tickets at Pelicans.com.

Harlem Globetrotters bring fun to New Orleans Smoothie King Center

Feb. 22 Roundball fun for the whole family comes to the Big Easy as the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters will take on the their lovable loser compares – the Washington Generals – Feb. 22 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.

Tip off is scheduled for 3 p.m., and tickets can be purchased at Vividseats.com for as low as $36 or as high as $291.

Throughout their history, the Globetrotters have lived up to their name – showcasing their iconic talents in 120 countries and territories on six continents.

Boasting a win percentage of greater than 98 percent in the team’s history, it’s a safe bet the team in red, white and blue will come out on top, but the event’s enjoyment comes from the experience.

‘Ladies of the Sacred South,’ ‘Harvey’ open in bayou area

Feb. 27 through March Quite different, but charming, none-the-less plays make their way to the Bayou Playhouse in Lockport and the Le Petit Theatre de Terrebonne this month.

Harvey at Bayou Playhouse, Ladies of the Sacred South at La Petit in Houma.

Harvey, which can be seen Fridays through Sundays Feb. 27 through March 27, tells the tale of pleasant yet quirky man who claims that his best friend Harvey, is a Pooka. The problem, however, he’s the only one who seems to be able to see him.

Show times are 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets cost between $25 and $27 at 1-88-99-BAYOU (22968).

In Houma, four eccentric old ladies take on the ‘History Establishment’ in order to save their decaying plantation museum in Ladies of the Sacred

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South.

The show runs Feb. 27 through March 8, and Tickets are $15 at (985) 876-4278.

Happy Mardi Gras

Feb. 1-17 Xavier University’s retiring president Dr. Norman Francis will be an honorary grand marshal for the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club’s Fat Tuesday parade. Francis announced that he will retire, ending his 46-year career as the longest serving university president in the United States.

Other highlights include a racecar in the Krewe of Bacchus parade on Feb. 15. The parade will roll with four Indy drivers including Josef Newgarden, Sage Karam, Carlos Munoz, and James Hinchcliffe.

Krewe of Endymion , rolling Feb. 14, features “EndymionTV,” which will have video cameras displaying images of the crowds onto a giant TV.

Music Maker

Tracy Lawrence knows who his fans are

By SHELL ARMSTRONG Country hitmaker Tracy Lawrence set a Billboard record in 2007 with “Find Out Who Your Friends Are.” Released nearly a year earlier, the single set a record for the slowest climbing hit on the country music charts and the second slowest on any Billboard singles chart.

Lawrence has been much faster at identifying his fan base and delivering the tunes that keep them coming back.

“I don’t know when you’re young and stupid if you ever think ahead,” Lawrence said of his longevity. “I know what my fans want from me. I know who I am and where I’m at as an artist.

I feel very blessed.”

It’s been more than 20 years since Lawrence’s freshman release, “Sticks and Stones.” He’s seen 18 songs reach the top of the country charts and sold more than 13 million albums since then.

And, to celebrate the milestone, he’s just released a greatest hits package, “Evolution.”

The 12-song CD includes fan favorites “Time Marches On,” “Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” “Paint Me a Birmingham” and “If the World had a Front Porch.”

“It was difficult getting down to the first 10 or 12,” Lawrence said of the compilation. “I feel fortunate to have that problem. There’ve been a lot of hits.”

For “Evolution,” Lawrence and his road band went back to the studio and re-recorded all of the songs.

“We did 23 songs in all,” he explained.

“The plan is, over the course of this year, to mix and match some of the songs for additional packages.”

Fans can expect the next release to include a number of two-steps and waltzes. “More of the uptempo stuff,” the singer said.

Lawrence, who just turned 47, said the new recordings are all studio quality.

“Vocally, you will have a hard time hearing the difference,” he said, a feat many artists with storied careers would

COURTESY

Tracy Lawrence visits Cypress Bayou Casino Feb. 28. The country artist, pictured today and in the 1980s sporting a mullet on the cover of “Evolution,” a greatest hits package. “I loved my mullet, but I have no desire to grow it back,” he said. “It was another time and place. It was a lot to deal with living on the road, but I enjoyed it when I had it.” have a tough time pulling off.

“I’m a stickler for the tracks being very comparable to the original,” he said. “This is as close to the original stuff as it gets. This is what fans hear when I play live with my road band.”

“Evolution” is out on Lawrence Music, the Arkansas-born singer’s newest label. After a fallout with his Rocky Comfort Records partner, Lawrence now has intellectual ownership of all of his prior music.

“I’m already being approached by companies for licensing opportunities,” he said.

In addition to touring, he’s back on the radio with a syndicated radio show, “Honky-Tonkin’ with Tracy Lawrence.”

“I primarily play all uptempo dance music by artists from the Eighties and earlier,” he said. “Twenty stations are on board, and I’ll have another 40 or 50 by early summer. The feedback’s been really positive.”

The show allows Lawrence to share the spotlight with artists he enjoys. “A lot of country music has evolved into arena music,” he said. “People are not getting the older music anywhere. Guys I came up with – Mark Chesnutt, Clay Walker and others – call in and we talk and I play the older stuff.”

That’s not to suggest Lawrence feels slighted by the industry.

“I was fortunate to have the run I’ve had,” he said. “Now, I’m settling in to

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what my core audience wants. I do 90 to 100 shows a year and have a solid, great fan base. I work as much as I want and believe I can sustain this pace for a long time.”

Lawrence performs at Feb. 28 at Cypress Bayou Casino in Charenton. Tickets are $20 to $35 through Ticketmaster.

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Eagles are the theme in Morgan City

By JOHN DeSANTIS

A unique chance to view bald eagles in the wild and learn about them and other birds of prey is scheduled in a nearby community next month, featuring human speakers, captive live birds and a photography exhibit.

The 10th Annual Eagle Expo and More runs from Feb. 26-28 in Morgan City.

Organizers say the exposition is “a tribute to the return of the American Bald Eagle to Louisiana, which was removed from the endangered species list in June 2007.”

The Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau has set up a photo exhibit at its new Welcome Center, 900 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd in Morgan City.

A birds of prey traveling road show called Extreme Raptors is a pivotal part of the celebration, scheduled from 6-7:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Patterson Civic Center.

Falcons, hawks and owls are featured;

Jonathan Wood will feature live birds of prey at the Extreme Raptor show in Morgan City.

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a special presentation will be held the day before for all school students.

On Feb. 27 at the Welcome Center, wildlife photographer C.C. Lockwood, who has authored books and whose work has appeared in National Geographic and Smithsonian magazines, offers a workshop on taking wildlife pictures. The day begins with a seminar at 9 a.m. at the Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau’s Welcome Center, with a field trip to Bayou Black, to focus on birding and marsh landscapes. The Lockwood program costs $195.

Boat tours of eagle habitat – and the potential to spot some of the birds – are scheduled for Feb. 27 and 28. Boat tours will be held in the Atchafalaya Basin, as well as on Bayou Black, Turtle Bayou and Bayou Long. Other species that viewers should expect to see are ducks, ospreys, other shorebirds, hawks and songbirds.

For a full schedule, registration and other information contact info@cajuncoast.com or call 985-380-8224.

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Bragging rights and awards are at stake at the Feb. 26 Wild Game Supper in Larose.

Larose Wild Game Supper promises another stellar meal

By JEAN-PAUL ARGUELLO Larose is where the wild things are.

The eating kind.

The Bayou Civic Club hosts its Annual Wild Game Supper Thursday, Feb. 26, featuring the usual fare including crowd favorites such as White Oyster Soup, Hogwings, Wing and Tail Jambalaya made with Shrimp and Quail, Rabbit and Apple Sauce, Alimony Pie and Kangaroo Pouches.

The supper will also be introducing new dishes including Wild Turkey Spaghetti, Buffalo Jalapeño Poppers, Barbecue Shrimp and Grits, Turtleback Courtbouillion and Duck and Deer Kabob.

The 40-plus dishes will be prepared by some of the best professional and amateur chefs of the Bayou Region. Diners will vote on the dishes, as they do every year, based on best of three categories: fin, fur or feather.

The supper will be adorned with over $1 million worth of prized animal mounts for diners to ogle.

Proceeds from the Wild Game Supper will go toward the Bayou Civic Club long-term endowment fund, which operates the Larose Regional Park. The Bayou Civic Club is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and gets no government funding. The Larose Regional Park provides the Larose region with youth 10 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | February 2015

sports, summer camps and swim teams, among other things to the community.

There will also be a live auction with many prized items up for grabs including handmade rocking chairs, prized guns, and the rights to put whatever one wants to on the back cover of the Bayou Civic Club’s new Wild Game Cookbook.

Every year the Bayou Civic Club honors an individual who has contributed to the community and its culture with their Outdoor Icon Award.

“It was more or less to entertain the local hunters, you know,” said Magnus Arceneaux, the 2014 Outdoor Icon and one of the men who started the Wild Game Supper with brothers Pat and John Brady over 30 years ago. “If you had a piece of meat you wanted to get cooked that night, you brought it.”

The event was accompanied with card games and good conversation.

Arceneaux said the supper started with only a handful of men, numbering around 20, but now, “it’s unreal, the people that come to that thing!”

Admissions for individuals is a $60 donation, but table reservations with servers start at $800 and go up from there. All tickets must be purchased in advance.

For more information, visit http:// www.bayoucivicclub.org/features/wildgame-supper or call 985-693-7355.

Official

G U I D E

Inside:

Hyacinthians tossing their ‘Hats Off !’

Houmas gives Texas youngster ride of a life ‘Swamp People’ star t a m e s Wo rl d Fe s t g at o r with Herules

Brought to You By

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Krewe of Hercules Friday, Feb. 6, 6 p.m.

(Houma)

The all-male Krewe of Hercules, which has the distinction of staging the parade that kicks off the Carnival season in the Houma area, is celebrating its 31st anniversary under the theme “Hercules King Hercules Explores Sportsman’s XXXI Terry Paradise.”

Pierce The krewe was formed by local real estate executive S.P. LaRussa and 15 others, including “Mr. Mardi Gras,” Blaine Kern Sr., who refers to the Krewe of Hercules as “Bacchus on the Bayou.” Hercules is the largest allmale parade in the Tri-parish area. This year the krewe presents 35 double-decker floats carrying 750 revelers bombing crowds with millions of throws.

H.L. Bourgeois, Baker, Scotlandville, Ellender Memorial, St. Martinville and Jeanerette high schools and Houma Jr. High bands will join the fun.

The 2015 Royal Court is: King Hercules XXXI Terry Pierce Centurions: Mark Carrere, John Cosgrove, Michael Dardar, Tim Davidson, Tony Falgout, Chris Kramer, Will Leboeuf, Joshua Naquin, Matthew Naquin, Troy Naquin, Olin Souldelier Jr., Todd Theriot, Jamie Triche and Larry White Jr. Goddesses: Natalie Authement, Destiny Bartholomew, Courtney Chan-

cellor, Ryan “Faith” Cosgrove, Emily Gautreaux, Abrianna Kramer, Victoria Martin, Allie Morgan, Breanna Schwab, Cameron Shroyer, Shyanne Soudelier, Morgan Thibodaux, Macayla Triche and Brianna Whitney.

Pages: Lelan Higginbotrham, Caden Pierce, Cullen Pierce, Madison Pierce, Avah Shinall and Emah Shinall “Swamp People” star Troy Landry is the grand marshal and will ride a special float bearing the actual alligator that hung over the 1984 World’s Fair in New Orleans.

S.P. LaRussa is the Krewe of Hercules’ parade captain, while Michael Paul LaRussa acts as the captain of the Royal Court. Mark Pitre is the club president.

The parade begins at Southland Mall, rolls down West Park Avenue to Hollywood Road, takes a right then a left to West Main Street where it proceeds to Barrow Street, takes a right and disbands at Town Hall.

Krewe of Bayou Petit Caillou Saturday, Feb. 7, noon (Chauvin)

The Krewe of Bayou Petit Caillou is rolling for its 29th year. This year’s theme is “Krewe of Bayou Petit Caillou Goes to Candy Land.”

Accompanying the krewe’s 12 throwing floats will be the Lacache-Montegut Middle School band.

The 150 revelers will throw cups, beads, Bayou Petit stuffed animals, footballs Caillou King and so much more.

Justin Martin The 2015 Royal Court is: King Justin Martin Queen Courtney Battise Dukes: Trey LeCompte, Beau Dubois, Reed DeRoche, Seth Billiot, Noah Queen Billiot, Layne LeBoeuf, Courtney Darryl Trahan, Caleb Battise LeBoeuf, Bailey Lennup and Dylan Ghere Maids: Morgan Chauvin, Addison Rousse, Ella LeBoeuf, Angelle’ Chauvin, Logan Lirette, Kayleigh Lirette, Shaylee Percle, Victoria Mattise, Hailey Chauvin, Kate Portier and Alissia Verdin Pages: Alyssia Trahan, Linzie Guidry, Brayslie Hendon, Kaden Battise, Kaleb Trahan and Hobie Dubois Parade Captain Alvin Luke Co-Captain: Heidi Foret Ball Captain: Becky Foret The co-ed krewe began in 1985 to bring entertainment to the bayou.

The parade begins at the Chauvin pool, travels north to St. Joseph Church and disbands at Sarah Bridge.

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Krewe Des T-Cajuns Saturday, Feb. 7, noon (Larose)

The largest parade in Larose, Le Krewe Des T-Cajuns, is a popular children’s parade. The procession rolls through the Lafourche Parish community and consists of 25 to 30 throwing floats and Des T-Cajuns approximately 200 to 250 King Mason school-age riders. This Scardino year’s theme is “The Wild West.”

The royal court is chosen every year at the krewe’s ball. Names of all of the children who wish to be a part of the court are put into a hat Des T-Cajuns and drawn at random.

Queen Isabella The 2015 Royal Court Leonard is: King Mason Scardino Queen Isabella Leonard Dukes: Kaden Champagne and Gabriel Reina Maids: Jessalyn Bourgeois, Alexis Champagne, Andris Terrebonne and Sabre Bruce Isabella Leonard is this year’s parade captain.

In 1998 Wade and Mary Dufrene, along

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Main Street Inc., CASA of Lafourche and CASA of Terrebonne.

The parade begins on Audubon Drive, proceeds to Menard Street where it takes a left, goes to Canal Boulevard, takes a right, turns left on 2nd Street, left again on Jackson Street, rolls down to the railroad tracks at Pecan Street, makes a U-turn onto Canal Boulevard, takes a right on East 7th Street, a left on Bayou Lane, a right on Menard Street, and wraps up back where it began on Audubon Drive.

with their daughters Kellie and Jill Dufrene, started Le Krewe Des T-Cajuns.

The first parade was held on Feb. 22 with “Disney” as the theme. It consisted of 28 homemade floats and approximately 252 children.

The parade begins at the Larose Civic Center and heads up 5th Street, crosses at the Larose pontoon bridge and heads south on La. Highway 1. It disbands at the Rouse’s Shopping Center.

Krewe of Ambrosia

Krewe of Aquarius

Sunday, Feb. 7, 5:30 p.m.

(Thibodaux)

Thibodaux’s co-ed, family-friendly Krewe of Ambrosia features 19 throwing floats in its 30th parade – the city’s lone night parade. The 2015 theme, which was voted on by the krewe members, is Ambrosia King “Ambrosia Parties into Phil Caballero the Night.”

The 400 members will pitch lighted Ambrosia medallion necklaces, footballs, lighted Ambrosia swords and Frisbees, mega-coloring books, jumbo gum and Pixy Sticks, stuffed animals and much more. The floats depict various parties and the costumes, selected by each float lieutenant, are designed to reflect the party.

H.L. Bourgeois, St. James, Ellender Memorial and Thibodaux high schools’ marching bands will be joined by Peabody High’s band.

The school is based in Ambrosia Alexandria, Louisiana.

Queen Paige The 2015 Royal Court Melancon is: King Phil Caballero Queen Paige Melancon Dukes: Stephen Boudreaux, Carl Waguespack, Reed Callais, Aaron Waguespack, Garret Smith, Darius Rodrigue, Alex Humel and Glend Haydel Maids: Ashlyn Folse, Callie Authement, Adrien Gauthreaux, Maddi Benoit, Shae Adams, Lorraine Baker, Hailey Savoie and Katrice Adair

Pages: Aiden Michael Fields, son of Chad and Bernadette Fields, Kinlie Braelynn Fields, daught3r of Brad Fields and Roseanne Plaisance, and Bria Scarlett Babin, daughter of Jacques and Rachel Babin Parade Captain Glen Raffray Ball Captain Tracey Westerman Chris Franklin, Fox 8 weatherman, is serving as grand marshal.

The Krewe of Ambrosia Carnival Club first paraded in 1986.

The krewe rents floats from Cantrell Floats LLC. Its community events include the Thibodaux Relay for Life event sponsored by the American Cancer Society and an annual poker run, which benefits various nonprofit groups. Past recipients of Ambrosia’s fundraisers have benefitted Thibodaux

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Saturday, Feb. 7, 6:30 p.m.

(Houma)

The all-female Krewe of Aquarius is celebrating its 21st anniversary with the theme “Louisiana Festivals.”

Each year the theme is chosen by the parade captain, and each float group designs their own Queen costumes, which need Aquarius XXI board approval.

Susan Landry Along with the 21 decorated floats, the Oaklawn and Evergreen junior high, Grand Caillou Middle and Morgan City and Central high schools’ marching bands will join the fun.

This year’s special throws include glow-in-the-dark krewe cups, rings,

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glow sticks, wands and bracelets, as well as stuffed animals and Aquarius clappers.

When the krewe first started they had 147 members. Today they are 535 members strong.

The 2015 Royal Court is: Queen Aquarius XXI Susan Landry Maids: Tamala Malbrough, Pagne Higginbotham, Monique Boudreaux and Susan Waldron Pages: Cassidy Dufrene, Abigail Broussard, Izaya Thomas and Jase’ Mendez The parade captain is Cheryl LeBlanc; Tammy Malbrough is ball captain.

The group was formed in 1994 by Tana Marcel and Nancy Carlos. The members choose their queen in a unique

way. A king cake is cut and a number is placed on each slice. Members pull a number and receive their corresponding piece of cake. The member finding a silver crown in their piece of cake is the queen. The member finding a mask in their piece is the runner-up.

Aquarius donates to the Food Bank, Toys for Tots and St. Vincent De Paul Pharmacy.

The parade begins at Southland Mall, rolls down West Park Avenue to Hollywood Road, takes a right and then a left to West Main Street where it proceeds to Barrow Street, takes a right and then throws the last bead at Town Hall.

Krewe of Versailles Sunday, Feb. 8, noon (Cut Off)

A co-ed organization with 200 members, the Krewe of Versailles is parading for its 41st year on 20 individually-owned floats.

This year the krewe’s theme is “Once Upon a Time in Versailles.” The Versailles king, queen and captain King XLI select the theme.

Jerome Shields The krewe’s riders will shower the crowds with Versailles’ Fleur de Lis, beads, cups, stuffed animals and special throws.

The Shriners and South Lafourche High School Marching Band Versailles are expected to also join Queen XLI in the procession.

Charlene The 2015 Royal Court Plaisance is: King XLI Jerome Joseph Shields Queen XLI Charlene Pierce Plaisance Dukes: Nessie Joseph Pierce, Matthew Paul Adams, Davin Ryan Comardelle and Kevin Charles Anselmi Maids: Donna Leblanc Pierce, Dollie Hebert Gaudet, Kaitlin Olivia Steed and Kelsey Renee Lefort Junior Dukes: Evan Paul Cloutier, Coley Jacob Detillier, Hunter Landry Brady, Ryan Joseph Guidry Jr., Sebastian Cole Vegas, Jonah Anthony Chiasson, Alisah Nicole Gisclair, Beau

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Michael Bruce and Luke Anthony Chiasson Junior Maids: Jalin Renee’ Pitre, Sabryne Janae’ Richoux, Elli Elizabeth Anselmi, Hannah Ruth Gisclair, Lainie Renee’ Guidry, Alisah Nicole Gisclair, Savannah Helena Blanchard and Angelle Christen Legendre Pages: Jonah Paul Autin, Kael Micah Hunter, Kristian Isabelle Gaudet, Avoree Noel Steed, Luci Grace Gisclair and Molly Frances Hadaway Parade and Ball Captain is Kristian “Kris” Michael Gaudet The krewe was formed in 1974 and is known as the most elegant carnival group in South Lafourche.

Each year the floats are decorated to fit the theme of the parade. Krewe members gather weeks before the parade to decorate the floats for the annual decorating contest. The winner is announced the night of the ball and the winning float receives a large ribbon to display on the float on parade day.

The parade begins at La. Highway 24 along La. Highway 1 in Larose and ends at Cut Off Elementary School.

Krewe of Hyacinthians Sunday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m.

(Houma)

The Krewe of Hyacinthians 375 members are parading for their 64th year

SHELL ARMSTRONG | GUMBO

Ladies from the Krewe of Hyacinthians’ Cat in the Hat float, the second in the Feb. 8 lineup, show off some of their individually decorated top hats, a new addition to this year’s throws. Pictured are (front row, from left) Marsha Williams, Nancy Davis, Michelle Lusco, Mary Eschete Bourque, (back row, from left) Suzy Johnson, Pat Herques, Char Herques, Lorie Moreau LePlume, Jessica Adams and Gwen Talbot. Krewe members will also be throwing fascinators, all in keeping with this year’s parade theme, “Hats Off!.”

Hyacinthians tossing their ‘Hats Off!’

By SHELL ARMSTRONG

Zulu and Muses have nothing on Houma’s Krewe of Hyacinthians.

The New Orleans krewes are known for their coveted coconuts and ornate shoes.

In keeping with this year’s theme, “Hats Off!,” Houma’s ladies are introducing their own traditional throw: decorated top hats and fascinators.

The brainstorm of Laurie Hamner and her sister Lynn, the krewe will toss 1,500 individually adorned top hats and just as many black fascinators.

The gals riding the Cat in the Hat float, the second in Hyacinthian’s Feb. 8 parade lineup, have been busily apply-

ing personal touches – glitter, ribbons, feather plumes and the like – to their hats since December.

“It’s terrific because it is so unusual,” said Gwen Talbot, who has been riding with the krewe for 35 years. “And it allows us to express ourselves in individual ways. No two hats look the same.”

Talbot and each of the other ladies aboard the Cat in the Hat expect to throw 100 to 150 top hats each, and double the number of fascinators.

“We hope getting one becomes a big special deal,” float captain Char Herques said. “Hopefully, people will come out year after year and start a collection.”

While the hats are a first for the

krewe, Hyacinthians has tossed specialized items for years. Past novelties include trading cards featuring the Queen Hyacinth and her Royal Court, as well as Hyacinth dolls.

“These are great fun; everyone will want one,” said krewe member Suzy Johnson. “Now, we’re just hoping for great weather so everyone will come out.”

Parade-goers can also expect a new twist from Hyacinthians: a new look for their icon.

“After 64 years, she’s getting a sassy new look,” said Hamner, noting the top hat the gal on the logo is wearing. “She need a little pizzazz.”

The updated logo will adorn cups

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and other specialty items at this year’s event.

with the jovial theme “Hats Off!” For the first time in the krewe’s history and in keeping with the theme, it will throw a signature item: a top hat bearing Queen Hyacinth Hyacinthians’ new logo.

LXIV Debbie The embellished hats Chauvin will be handed from floats. Also watch for Fascinators, small hats on headbands. Both the top hats and fascinators promise to be a Carnival collector’s item.

Each of Hyacinthians’ King Hyacinth 16 throwing floats – each LXIV Kerry of which holds 22 to 26 Chauvin riders – has a title, which is selected by the float captain and ties into the theme of the parade. Floats this year represent a different style hat.

Riders also design their costumes to represent the theme.

Joining the parade are Vandebilt, Terrebonne and H.L. Bourgeois high schools and Houma Jr. High marching bands, as well as the Boy Scout Color Guard, the Shriners, antique cars and

various marching units.

The 2015 Royal Court is: Queen Hyacinth LXIV Debbie Chauvin King Kerry Chauvin Maids: Scotty Gonsoulin, Angel Allemand, Annette Cenac, Susan Duplantis, Kim Robichaux, Brigette Gawlik, Nicole Emerson and Janet Shaw Dukes: Jerry Gonsoulin, Harris Allemand, Billy Cenac, Dwayne Duplantis, Raleigh Robichaux, Brandon Gawlik, Tim Emergson and Gary Hergert Pages to the Queen: Jolie Lynn Gawlik, daughter of Brigette and Brandon Gawlik, and Riley Kay Hamilton, daughter of Kara and Rob Hamilton Pages to the King: Jacques Edward Gawlik, son of Brigette and Brandon Gawlik, and Landon James Poincot, son of Candace Poincot Vickie Rhodes is parade captain and Lynn Myers is ball captain.

The Krewe of Hyacinthians’ tableau and ball is held at 7 p.m. the night before their parade.

The parade begins at Southland Mall, rolls down West Park Avenue to Hollywood Road, takes a right then a left to West Main Street where it proceeds to

Barrow Street, takes a right and disbands at Town Hall.

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Krewe of Titans

Sunday, Feb. 8, noon (following Hyacinthians) (Houma) This is the seventh year the Krewe of Titans parade follows the Krewe of Hyacinthians.

Its 500-plus members toss a variety of throws such as cups, koozies and the

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new Krewe of Titans medallion beads to excited crowds. This year’s theme is “Titans Takes You to Vegas:” Established in 2008, Krewe of Titans is a Grand Marshal family-oriented organiHouma La. HOG zation and is meeting the Chapter needs of the community by providing a riding experience for couples and families.

The 2015 grand marshals are Houma Louisiana HOG (Harley Owners Group) Chapter.

Now in its 20th year, the Houma group is one of more than 1,400 HOG chapters around the world. It has nearly 400 happy, freedom-loving “rolling thunder”

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members. In addition to a shared love for Harleys and a passion for riding, the chapter has a deep compassion for those in need, committing to benefit many worthy causes. Locally, the HOGs support MacDonell United Methodist Children’s Services, Wounded Warriors, Disabled American Veterans, Christmas Toy Program, Lara’s Gowns (for young patients at Children’s Hospital) and Relay for Life. The chapter has been Terrebonne Relay for Life’s biggest contributor for three consecutive years.

Shannon Lagendyk is Titans’ parade captain.

The Titans’ parade begins at Southland Mall, rolls down West Park Avenue to Hollywood Road, takes a right then a left to West Main Street where it

proceeds to Barrow Street, takes a right and disbands at Town Hall.

Krewe of Shaka

Sunday, Feb. 8, 1:30 p.m.

(Thibodaux) The Krewe of Shaka celebrates its 20th year traveling the streets of Thibodaux. The parade’s theme this year is “Shaka’s 20th-year Celebration.”

Thirty members on 18 ornamented floats of different community organizations deliver traditional throws and Shaka cups. Four high school bands – Jim Hill High (Jackson, Miss.), Scottlandville High, Belaire High and Donaldsonville High – provide music along the route.

Formed Jan. 18, 1995, the Krewe of

February 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 21

Shaka aims to represent community togetherness and leadership.

Identities of the 2015 royal court, including king, queen, Mr. and Ms. Shaka and the duke and duchess, are kept confidential until the krewe’s ball.

However, some royalty members are known.

The Shaka 2015 Royal Court is:

mg calendar o

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ver doublespread

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Houmas gives ride of lifetime to Texas youngster

By JEAN-PAUL ARGUELLO For Ben Thaden-Pierce, 9, seeing Mardi Gras for the first time will be especially important, because it may also be his last time.

The Lake Dallas, Texas, youth was born three months and one week premature and suffers from ROP, or retinopathy of prematurity. This means that Ben’s eyes are not developing correctly as he grows older. ROP, which is the same condition that led to Stevie Wonder’s blindness, may also lead to retinal detachment.

The full extent of Ben’s vision loss will not be known until Ben stops growing in his early 20s.

It is for this reason that Ben’s parents, Hiedi and Kit Thaeden-Pierce, are making sure that Ben sees as many things as possible before he can no longer see at all.

“There’s no telling. We will know finally around the time he is 22 and his eyesight stops developing – he stops growing – then we’ll know what the final damage is,” dad Kit said. “… Which is one of the reasons why we are doing the whole visual memory thing now.

He’s old enough to remember, and old enough to appreciate, and old enough to articulate, and because we don’t know what the future is going to hold for him, it’s one of those situations where what

COURTESY

The Thaden-Pierce family poses for a portrait. Ben, fourth from the left, suffers from retinopathy. His eyesight is steadily declining and he may go blind. Kit and Hiedi Thaden Pierce are trying to fulfill their son’s ‘vision wish list’ before he goes blind, bringing them to Houma for Mardi Gras. kind of parents would we be if we didn’t see the need and prioritize the need.”

Ben’s vision wish list includes snorkeling, the Parthenon, a toy factory, skiing, Japan, the Sistine Chapel and

various other activities and sights, some of which his mother has “vetoed” due to “practicality and finances.”

The family has already crossed some things off the list.

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“For me, the experiences range from the simple – he got to see a farm; to the amazing — he got to see the Northern Lights; and to the kind of weird – we got to see the inside of a water tower,” Kit

said. “When an eight year old makes a list of things he wants to see, there’s going to be stuff like that!”

One more thing the Thaeden-Pierces will very soon be able to cross off Ben’s list will be Mardi Gras.

Kit was apprehensive at first when his son told him that he wanted to see Mardi Gras.

When Ben told him “’I want to see Mardi Gras,’ I was like, ehh, I’ve heard stories,” Kit said. “The good people of Houma have insisted that your Mardi Gras is a family-friendly affair, so we’re going to hold you to that!”

Ben will be riding in a couple of parades in both New Orleans and Houma.

He will be the Junior Grand Marshal for the Krewe of Morpheus and will ride in a convertible in the Krewe of Houmas here in Houma, said Angie Pellegrin, a Houma-native who saw Ben’s story on “The Today Show” and wanted to help him see Mardi Gras.

“Being that we are a family oriented crew, the Krewe of Houmas were honored to extend an invitation to Ben and his family to be a part of our Mardi Gras traditions,” krewe member Mark Kinnard said. “He will be an honored guest not only at our tableau, he will also be riding in our parade.”

Pellegrin, who is a psychologist, was

struck by Ben’s parents’ efforts in supporting their son in his transition to going blind.

“They had a plethora of incredibly kind and generous offers” from a number of Mardi Gras krewes throughout Southeast Louisiana, but the dates of their events clashed with the family’s schedule, she said.

Pellegrin is coordinating the ThaedenPierce Mardi Gras trip and also fundraising to help cover the family’s expenses while here. She started a Facebook group, called various Mardi Gras krewes, and is organizing a plate lunch fundraiser on Feb. 5.

Rouses is flying the Thaeden-Pierces to southeast Louisiana and the Mariott in New Orleans is providing them with accommodations.

If you are interested in buying a plate lunch to help cover the Thaeden-Pierce family’s expenses while enjoying Mardi Gras, email orders to angiepellegrin@ gmail.com.

The plate lunches will feature jambalaya, white beans and fried catfish.

They can be picked up at 293 Lake Mechant Ct. between 10:30 a.m. and noon on Feb. 5. Orders with 10 meals or more will be delivered for free.

Visit facebook.com/groups/BensMardiGrasTrip for more information.

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Mr. and Ms. Shaka: Javis Brown and Tamekia Brown Duke and Dutchess: Shawn Garner and Johnell Bergeron Sweetheart: Raven Duncan, the daughter of Tammy Duncan, and a junior at Dillard University Maids: Randesha Cassie, the daughter of Robert and Latashia Cassie, Kayla Nisby, daughter of Kenneth and Stephanie Nisby, and Alaina Miles, daughter of Eric and Angela Miles Shaka’s parade captain is Denise Jones-Adams; Philip Joseph and Leroy Norman are co-captains The 2014 King and Queen were: King Keri Holmes Queen Danielle Holmes Mr. and Mrs. Shaka: Kevin Henry and Shawn Campbell-Joseph Duke and Dutchess: Nathanial Ward and Kwanza Truehill Last year’s grand marshal was Don Gray.

The parade starts at Martin Luther King Park and Iris Street, goes to School Street, proceeds to Canal Boulevard, turns right on St. Charles Street, goes to Fifth Street, turns left and travels to Jackson Street, turns left again and proceeds to Canal Boulevard, does a point turn to come up Canal Boulevard to West Seventh Street, turns right to Narrow Street, turns right to Back Street, and makes a left turn to proceed by to Martin Luther King Park, where the parade route ends.

Krewe of Aphrodite Friday, Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m.

(Houma)

The all-female Houma Women’s Carnival Club LLC Krewe of Aphrodite is celebrating its 32nd year with 465 members.

Seventeen throwing floats, plus three non-throwing floats, Queen will reflect the exciting Aphrodite XXXII theme, “It’s All About Zinda Leonard the Boot.”

The bands of Morgan City, Franklin and South Terrebonne high schools, Lacache-Montegut Middle

School and Evergreen Jr. High get your fingers snapping and your toes tapping.

The Houma Shriners, Selucrey Sophisticats and Ka-Jon Grotto.

Along with traditional Mardi Gras beads, riders toss stuffed animals and specialty items.

The 2015 Royal Court is: Queen Aphrodite XXXII Zinda Leonard Maids: Alicia Theriot, Deidre Kimble, Kim Fincher, Parrish Valure, Malia Matherne and Anadee McGee. Pages: Jacob Leonard, Alyssa Leonard, Elise Lirette and Gable Duplantis III Parade Captain: Sharon Pontiff (13th year) Ball Captain: Dena Barrios The club was founded in 1983 – it is Houma’s second oldest club – by women who are united in promoting civic and social activities during the Mardi Gras season. The krewe gives throughout the year to various charities.

The krewe rents its floats from the Krewe of Hercules. Because of this, the two krewes’ themes are coordinated.

The parade begins at Southland Mall, rolls down West Park Avenue to Hollywood Road, takes a right then a left to

West Main Street where it proceeds to Barrow Street, takes a right and disbands at Town Hall.

Krewe of Adonis Friday, Feb. 13, 7 p.m.

(Morgan City)

The all-male Krewe of Adonis will parade for its 40th year down the streets of Morgan City.

The krewe, formed in 1975, consists of 138 members and entertains St. Mary Parish with its only night parade.

Joining Adonis for the festivities are various local sound systems between each float group – plenty of music to keep your toes tapping.

Each year the krewe’s captain chooses the theme and costumes. The 2015 theme is “Adonis Galactic Adventures.”

Each of Adonis’ specially lit 14 floats has its own theme. Special throws associated with the king and queen, as well as each float’s theme, will be tossed.

The 2015 Royal Court is: King Adonis XL Keith Leonard

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Queen Adonis XL JoAnne Radtke Dukes: Darin Mayon, Chris Stevens, Simon Waguespack and Derald Hardaway Maids: Laine Mayon, King Adonis XL Debbie Stevens, Mandy Keith Leonard Waugespack and Becky Torgrimson Pages: Camryn Mayon and Claire Ramirez Keith Leonard is the parade captain and George Ramirez and Nelson Cortez are the Queen Adonis ball captains.

XL JoAnne The Krewe of Adonis Radtke is involved in the local community and holds an annual golf tournament, the proceeds of which are donated to charity.

The parade route begins on Brashear and Federal avenues, turns right on Onstead Street, right again on Sixth Street, left onto Marguerite Street, right on Seventh Street, left on Brashear Avenue and right onto Victor II Boulevard, disbanding at the Morgan City Auditorium.

Krewe of Athena Friday, Feb. 13, 7 p.m.

(Golden Meadow)

Athena Queen Peggy Copeland

Established in 2011, the relatively new Krewe of Athena rolls for its fourth year with 230 members. The all female group will ride on 17 floats and shower crowds with beads, stuffed animals, cups and more.

Joining the fun will be Carroll High, Wasson High and White Castle High marching bands.

This year’s theme is “Krewe of Athena Travels the World.”

The 2015 Royal Court is: Queen Peggy Copeland Dukes: Carson Orgeron, Dominick Lala and Connor Gisclair Maids: Lexxy Boura, Hannah Gisclair and Cara

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Plaisance The procession travels the traditional Golden Meadow route. It begins at the northern city limits of Golden Meadow and travels south along La. Highway 1 to the southern city limits where it disbands.

Krewe of Apollo Saturday, Feb. 14, noon (Lockport)

One of Lafourche’s oldest Carnival clubs, the Krewe of Apollo rolls for its 51st year celebrating the theme “Cartoons.”

The lineup includes 19 throwing floats, the king and queen’s float, the Apollo Queen president and krewe Kathy Loupe captain’s float and the maids’ float, as well as three marching bands.

Each float captain is in charge of picking an individual theme for his or her float, and the riders decorate their individual vessels and costumes. On the day of the parade, a panel of judges hand out awards in multiple categories ranging from Most Original Float Theme to Prettiest Costume. The winners are announced at the reviewing stand as the parade is rolling.

Joining the 150 male and female krewe members are several high school and middle school marching bands, dance teams, as well as various festival

kings and queens, horse groups and deejays. The Selucrey Sophisticats and Mardi Gras Walking Club are also participating.

The 2015 Royal Court is: Queen Apollo LI Kathy Loupe Maids: Flo Bradford (1st maid) and Debbie Plaisance (2nd maid) Duke: Tommy Plaisance The Krewe of Apollo’s krewe captain is Brian Hebert.

The Krewe of Apollo, which was started in 1963, is a close-knit club that works very hard.

Apollo starts its route on Church Street, turns left on 10th Street, travels to Lafourche Street and turns left, then left on 2nd Street, left on Justin Street, left on Crescent Avenue, right on Barataria Street, right on Main Street, right on Elizabeth Street, right on Crescent Avenue returning to Church Street.

Krewe of Atlantis Saturday, Feb. 14, noon (Golden Meadow)

“Holidays” is the theme of the new Krewe of Atlantis’ parade, which rolls through Golden Meadow Valentine’s Day. The krewe’s approximately 80 members will toss throws from King Atlantis the eight floats, and the Dustin Rivet Southern Earth Tones will provide the musical accompaniment.

The 2015 royal couple is King Dustin Rivet and Queen Carrie Breaux.

Rivet is the son of Dray and Amanda Rivet, brother of Dray Rivet Queen Atlantis Carrie Breaux Jr. and sister of Destiny

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Rivet. He works at Wal-Mart and, in his spare time, enjoys the outdoors and time spent with family and friends.

Breaux is the wife of Miles Breaux Jr. and mother of 5-year-old Kaycee.

An Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital staffer, she enjoys playing with her son, three dogs and the family cat.

Rounding out the 2015 Royalty are: Junior Maids: Kelsie Varnes, Naveah Hebert and Zayle Falgout Junior Duke: Landon Varnes Maids: Destiny Rivet and Becca Danos Dukes: Aaron Breaux and Dray Rivet Jr. The krewe’s ball is set for 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at the Cut Off Youth Center.

Jason Bellanger is the parade captain.

Atlantis rolls along La. Highway 1 in Golden Meadow from the north to the south end.

Krewe of Dionysus Saturday, Feb. 14, 2 p.m.

(Berwick/Bayou Vista)

Originally called the Berwick-Bayou Vista Mardi Gras Association, this krewe started in 1980. In 2001 the name was changed to the Krewe of Dionysus to fall into the tradition of choosing names to King Dionysus represent mystical gods Doug Perry and goddesses. Dionysus is the god of comedy, tragedy and wine.

Now in its 35th year, the Krewe of Dionysus is made up of 100 members that pitch from 13 throwing floats, as well Queen as a number of truck Dionysus trailers, four wheelers, Mamie Perry fire trucks and horses.

Various sound systems

pump up the crowds with fun music.

The krewe is mystic so the identities of King and Queen Dionysus and the theme are kept secret until after the tableau and ball, which is Feb. 7.

Last year’s theme was “A Tribute to Broadway.”

The 2014 Royal Court was: King Doug Perry Queen Mamie Perry Dukes: Chris Rodriguez, Darryl LeBlanc, Jay Bernard and Bobby Ferguson Maids: Debra Louvierre, Mandy Louvierre, Jessie Whipple and Colleen Keller The parade and ball captain is Kathie Spradling.

The krewe’s first ball was held in an airplane hangar at the Wedel Williams Memorial Airport in Patterson. The parade routes alternate between the communities of Berwick and Bayou Vista. This year it will roll on the Bayou Vista route.

The Bayou Vista route starts on Del-

mar Street, turns right on Venus Road, right on Saturn Road, left on Southeast Boulevard, right on Canal Street, right on Teche Road, right on Fairmont Avenue, left on Southeast Boulevard then right on Belleview Street to disband.

Krewe of Mardi Gras Saturday, Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m.

(Houma)

The Krewe of Mardi Gras will roll for its 21st year, serving as Houma’s only eastside parade.

The krewe’s theme this year is “Come to the Mardi Gras” and 550 members toss a variety of throws – including lots of Valentine bead – from the krewe’s 26 floats.

Marching bands from Ellender, H.L. Bourgeois, St. James and St. Helena

February 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 29

high schools, Oaklawn Junior High and Grand Caillou Middle schools are also joining the procession.

The 2015 Royal Court is: Mardi Gras King XXI Glynn “TaKing XXI Glynn too” Matherne Matherne Queen XXI Casey Matherne Pages: Michael Matherne, David Matherne, McKayla LeBlanc and Kaylie Guidry The parade captain is S.P. LaRussa.

Mardi Gras S.P. LaRussa, Authur Queen XXI Breaux and J.B. Breaux Casey originally formed the Matherne Krewe of Mardi Gras in1993 as the fi rst parade exclusively on the east side of Houma.

The route begins on James Road, turns right onto Grand Caillou Road,

right on Tunnel Boulevard, left on Howard Avenue, left on East Main Street, left on Grand Caillou Road and disbands at the bingo hall.

Le Krewe Du Bon Temps Saturday, Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m.

(Larose)

Formed in 2005 Le Krewe Du Bon Temps celebrates its 10th year with the theme “Love.”

The 200 members toss traditional throws along with special one-of-a-kind surprise throws from 10-illuminated single-, double- and triple-decker floats.

This krewe has one piece of advice – bring several bags to put your beads in because they have plenty to throw!

The 2015 Royal Court is: King Jimmy Vasquez and Queen Angie Vasquez, parents of Jimmy Paul Vasqez Jr., Neesa Vasquez Fonseca and Francis Joseph Fonseca Jr., and

grandparents of Collin Emanuel Fonseca Princes: Branc Lucas Mejia, son of Gable and Shawntel Mejia, and Connor Fonseca, son of Cheryl and Frank FonDu Bon Temps seca Sr. King Jimmy Princesses: Rylie Rose Vasquez Galliano, daughter of Jude and Heather Galliano, and Madelyn Grace Lasseigne, daughter of Jason and Laura Lasseigne Junior Maids: Isabella Rose Caliguire, daughDu Bon Temps ter of Kevin and Nancy Queen Angie Caliguire; Victoria Rose Vasquez Leblanc, daughter of Corey Leblanc and Casey Rebstock; Hunter-Bailey Charpentier, daughter of Lance and Rachal Charpentier; Kaitlin Angelle Vizier, daughter of Jamie and Karen Vizier; and Sebastian Mignon Vizier, daughter of Roy and Faith Vizier Junior Dukes: Dylan Paul Mejia, son of Gable and Shawntel Mejia; Nicholas Jude Grabert, son of Robert and Stacy Grabert; Joel Michael Martin, son of

Michael Martin and Crystal Callais; and Noah Thomas Plaisance, son of Kim and Terrie Plaisance This is a civic-minded krewe strives to preserve the family and community values of the Mardi Gras’ spirit.

The route takes the parade from La. Highway 24, connects to La. Highway 1 near the Apple Inn, travels La. Highway 1 to Jack’s Exxon in Cut Off, and connects to the Cote Blanche Connection.

Krewe of Cleophas Sunday, Feb. 15, 12:30 p.m.

(Thibodaux)

The Krewe of Cleophas first rolled the streets of Thibodaux in 1971. Hard work and perseverance paid off for the krewe

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through its fundraising efforts. Today, it is recognized as one of Lafourche Parish’s biggest and best parades.

The theme for the 2015 parade is “Cleophas CelCleophas King ebrates Things Children Kirk Toups Like.” The krewe’s 250 members will ride atop 25 floats.

King Kirk Toups and Queen Joyann Aizen Neal are this year’s royal couple.

Providing the musiCleophas cal flair are Thibodaux Queen High, Assumption High, Joyann Aizen East Thibodaux Middle and West Thibodaux Middle school marching bands.

In 1992, the krewe purchased a parcel of land on Cardinal Drive where they

JEAN-PAUL ARGUELLO | GUMBO

SP LaRussa poses in front of his famed ‘Aligator’ float. The giant reptile once greeted people as they entered the 1984 World’s Fair in New Orleans, hovering over them as they walked in. It is one of only three, making it truly a one-of-a-kind.

Hercules ready to chomp Houma’s streets

By JEAN-PAUL ARGUESSLO Revelers will catch a glimpse of an addition to the Krewe of Hercules’ armada of floats on Friday, Feb. 6.

The will unveil a second gigantic ‘Hercules’ that is so big that the float carrying him had to be “cut down” for him to fit.

When Krewe founder was touring the Mardi Gras World den, he saw a gigantic Hercules sitting in a corner.

He asked Blaine Kern, known as ‘Mr. Mardi Gras,’ what he was doing with the sculpture.

Kern told LaRussa that Hercules was too big to do anything with.

LaRussa told Kern, “It’s time for that

float to come home to me.”

The float carrying the 30-or-so foot tall muscle man had to be modified so that he did not tower to dangerous heights, said LaRussa.

This will mark the first time that there are two Hercules sculptures in the Krewe’s parade. Mark Pitre, Mark Pitre, president of the Krewe of Hercules Carnival Club will ride on one, and Mike LaRussa, captain of the royal court, will ride on the other, LaRussa said.

The original ‘Hercules’ sculpture was created especially for the Krewe by Kern. LaRussa had told Kern that he wanted Hercules to hold an alligator in one hand and a crawfish in the other.

Kern told him that the mythical Her-

cules wouldn’t even know what those things are, and LaRussa said, “But those people in south Louisiana do!”

Of course, the crowd-favorite grand marshal float, the famed “alligator” float will roll as well, with Troy Landry of The History Channel’s “Swamp People” as the grand marshal.

The alligator, a sculpture by Blaine Kern, is a one of a kind. It is one of three massive sculptures that hovered over the entrances to the 1984 World’s Fair in New Orleans. Kern gave the sculpture to LaRussa not long after the Fair and it hovered over clubbers entering LaRussa’s club ‘Fantasies’ in Houma, said LaRussa.

When the nightclub closed, LaRussa

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placed the gator on a float a little over 20 years ago and it’s been a signature float ever since, he said.

LaRussa compares the Krewe of Hercules’ parade to Bacchus and Endymion in New Orleans.

Every year a month after Mardi Gras, LaRussa and the Krewe’s board of directors travel to New Orleans to examine both of those parades’ themes and colors. He borrows the motifs from those parades for the following year’s Krewe of Hercules parade.

“I have that choice,” LaRussa said. He attributes this to his good relationship with Blaine Kern.

constructed a float den, which houses 24 floats. A couple of years later, the krewe was fortunate enough to purchase the Old Colonel’s Retreat, located next door to their float den, which was renovated and is now known as the Krewe of Cleophas’ Clubhouse.

Krewe of Cleophas’ officers are elected annually to serve yearly terms.

Current officers are: Josh Bourgeois – president Mike Boudreaux – vice president Alison Boudreaux – secretary Gwen Levron – treasurer Audie Levron – captain Peggy Ordoyne – ball co-captain James Percle – parade co-captain Board members are David Duet, Troy Albert, Sandy Eschete, Glynn Legendre, Todd Guillot, John Lombardo, Florette Sanchez, Jennifer Benoit, Tiffany Percle, Ron Scioneaux, Mardel Davis, Dennis “Cowboy” Rodrigue and Coral Folse.

The parade begins on Audubon Drive,

proceeds to Menard Street where it takes a left, goes to Canal Boulevard, takes a right, turns left on 2nd Street, left again on Jackson Street, rolls down to the railroad tracks at Pecan Street, makes a U-turn onto Canal Boulevard, takes a right on East 7th Street, a left on Bayou Lane, a right on Menard Street, and ends back where it began on Audubon Drive.

Krewe of Chronos Sunday, Feb. 15, 12:30 p.m.

(Thibodaux)

The Krewe of Chronos, which follows the Krewe of Cleophas parade, is Thibodaux’s oldest parade organization. Rolling for its 61st year, the krewe celebrates with the theme “Isn’t It Romantic.”

This all-male organization of 200 members throws Chronos logo beads, Frisbees, footballs, champagne flutes and cups, as well as traChronos King ditional throws from its Peter Liechty 12 floats. Joining in the fun and providing music are E.D. White, Morgan City and St. James high schools’ marching bands.

The 2015 King & Queen are: King Peter George Chronos Queen Liechty Alexandra Queen Alexandra Donner Sophie Donner Dukes: Dr. James Vance Broussard, Jerry Marcello, Dr. James Kevin Ellis, Kirk Champagne and Dr. Mark Hebert Maids: Caroline Alexis Broussard, Adrienne Elizabeth Broussard, Sloane Marcello Clay, Shelby Victoria Ellis, Regina Nikkole Champagne and Lucy Elizabeth Benoit King’s Pages: Hunter Louis Shexnayder, son of Louis and Shannon Shexnayder, and Andrew Gordon Dantin Queen’s Pages: Hannah Grace Shexnayder, daughter of Louis and Shannon Shexnayder, and Anna Catherine Clement, daughter of Dillon and Jeanne Clement.

Justin Michael Tenney is the parade and ball captain this year.

Mark LaHaye is president of Chronos.

The parade begins on Audubon Drive, proceeds to Menard Street where it

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takes a left, goes to Canal Boulevard, takes a right, turns left on 2nd Street, left again on Jackson Street, rolls down to the railroad tracks on Pecan Street, makes a U-turn onto Canal Boulevard, takes a right on East 7th Street, a left on Bayou Lane, a right on Menard Street, and wraps back where it began on Audubon Drive.

Krewe of Terreanians Sunday, Feb. 15, 12:30 p.m.

(Houma)

The Krewe of Terreanians parade is always one of the highlights of the Mardi Gras season and is one of the oldest parading Carnival clubs in Houma. Now rolling for its 65th year, the 400-plus members King Terre LXV pitch a variety of items Ricky Pontiff and specialty beads from its 20 throwing floats.

The marching bands hail from Vandebilt Catholic, Terrebonne, Houma Junior and Evergreen Junior high schools.

The 2015 theme is Queen Terre “Terreanians Play LXV Lauren Games.”

Pontiff The krewe holds its tableaux and ball at 7 p.m. the night

before their parade.

The 2015 Royal Court is: King Terre LXV Ricky Pontiff Queen Terre LXV Lauren Nikole Pontiff Dukes: Dale Leonard, Chad Darcey, Eric Boudreaux, Perry Boudreaux, John Amador II and Charles Cenac Jr. Maids: Ashley Elizabeth Dufresne, Sarah Katherine Lirette, Katie Elizabeth Fairchild, Lauren Ann Rodriguez, Bailey Nicole Trosclair and Jenna Clair Cheramie Pages: Elizabeth Claire Abott, Caroline Elizabeth Louviere, Laith Michael Deroche and Jacob Alan Levron Paul Chauvin is parade captain and Dane “Peanut” Ledet Jr. is ball captain.

In 1950, the Greater Houma Carnival Club was formed and paraded on a Saturday night.

Thousands of citizens from neighboring parishes came to witness the historic parade. The all-male krewe selected its name from the parish Terrebonne, which in French means “good earth.”

The group later changed its name to the Krewe of Terreanians. The parade eventually migrated to the Sunday afternoon before Mardi Gras.

The parade begins at Southland Mall, rolls down West Park Avenue to Hollywood Road, takes a right then a left to West Main Street where it proceeds to Barrow Street, takes a right and disbands at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center.

Grand Isle Independent Sunday, Feb. 15, 1 p.m.

(Grand Isle)

Krewe of Des Allemands Sunday, Feb. 15, 1 p.m.

(Des Allemands)

A family organization, the Krewe of Des Allemands offers residents on the eastern border of the Tri-parish area a Mardi Gras experience close to home.

There’s no real theme for the parade – everyone just comes up with their own ideas.

This is the krewe’s 21st year and riders will be throwing parade cups, medallions, scrolls, beads and more from 15 all-throwing floats. The king

and queen toss special cups, medallion beads and scrolls, as does the grand marshal.

Hahnville High School Tiger Marching Band joins in the parade fun.

The 2015 Royal Court is: King Thomas Mahan Queen Berdie Mahan Grand marshals this year are Linda Bryant and Barbara Matherne.

The parade begins on Whitney Drive to U.S. Highway 90 through the business district, right on Dejean to Old U.S. Highway 90 then right on Lorraine Drive.

February 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 33

This is a “come as you wish” parade.

Any float, boat, truck, wagon, car, etc. is allowed.

The participants decorate their own riding vessels, and the police, fire departments and the U.S. Coast Guard Station participate as well.

Many locals and out-of-towners have started an annual tradition of bringing the whole family to Grand Isle for a day filled with fun!

The parade begins at Cisco’s Cantina on Blackberry Lane and La. Highway 1, travels down La. Highway 1, where it disbands at the Baptist church on Cedar Lane.

Krewe of Galatea Sunday, Feb. 15, 2 p.m.

(Morgan City)

The female Krewe of Galatea takes its 46th ride through the streets of Morgan City to the theme, “The Krewe of Galatea is Vogue.”

Members ride aboard 17 decorated

floats.

The mystic krewe’s 2015 Royal Court was announced at its Jan. 29 ball. They are: Queen Galatea LXXVII Mrs. Charles Richard King Galatea LXXVII Craig Bennett Maids: Mrs. Carey Barron, Mrs. Brian Belle, Mrs. Gerard Byrnes Jr. and Mrs. Tillman Simmons Dukes: David Fuhrer, Omar Bassa, Slade A. Sanders and the late Mr. Travis Crouch Pages: Haley A. Denning, Chalie Ann Fuhrer, Madison G. Simmons, Rhett U. Thomas, Aidan C. Treser and McClendon T. Tresser Mrs. William Picou is this year’s parade lieutenant.

The organization was formed in 1969 by its first captain, Adrienne Engel, and is designed to allow the ladies of Morgan City to share in the Carnival experience.

The parade starts on the corner of Second and Brashear streets and travels to Onstead, turns right on Sixth Street, left on Marguerite Street, right on La. Highway 70, left on the north side of Brashear Street, right on Victor

II Boulevard and right again on Myrtle street where it disbands.

Krewe of Montegut Children’s Carnival Parade Sunday, Feb. 15, 2 p.m.

(Montegut) The co-ed Montegut Children’s Carnival Parade was established in 1946 by parents in the Montegut and PointeAux-Chenes area.

Since that time it has been backed by a multitude of local civic organizations, including the Lionesses Club, Lions Club, American Legion, Montegut Fire Department, Knights of Columbus, K&B Machine Works, Jackson Hewitt, Montegut Children’s Carnival Club and Krewe de Bonne Terre.

“Family Game Night” is this year’s theme, which is the same theme as the krewe’s tableau scheduled the night before the parade.

Now in its 69th year, the 150-plus children riding on 10 floats are accom-

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panied by the Lacache-Montegut Middle School marching band.

The 2015 Royal Court is: King Tony Landry Queen Caitlin PelKing Tony legrin Landry Dukes: Brynan Verdin, Cobie Naquin, Tobie Naquin, Cole Pennison, Jaymin Lyons, Chris Boquet, Colby Pinell, Landon LeBoeuf, Ian Verdin and Beau Sullivan Maids: Madison ElQueen Caitlin Pellegrin lender, Mallory Grotts, Jordan Guidry, Lindsey Authement, Victoria Molinere, Micah Pellegrin, Madison Verdin, Brianna LaPointe, Logan Lirette and Kaitlyn Ledet Pages to the Queen: Morgan Thibodaux and Jo’lee Billiot

Pages to the King: Peyton Pinell and Blayze Chaisson Noah Billiot and Harley Ledet are the krewe’s parade captains.

The parade begins on Dolphin Drive to La. Highway 55, to Cypress Street, left on French Street, left on Old Oak Drive, to La. Highway 55 and disbands at Dolphin Drive and Cross Street.

had its first parade in 1985.

Nereids begins at the north end of Golden Meadow and parades along La. Highway 1 to the south end of town.

Krewe of Galatea Sunday, Feb. 15, 2 p.m.

(Morgan City)

Krewe of Nereids Sunday, Feb. 15, 6 p.m.

(Golden Meadow)

The first all-female night parade in Lafourche Parish, the Krewe of Nereids, is rolling for its 31st year.

From their illuminated double- and single-decker floats, the group’s nearly 200 members pitch traditional items, along with signature koozies, cups and other goodies.

This year the krewe sparkles with the theme “Nereids Dazzles the Night.”

Nereids Queen XXXI Kitty Pitre reigns over the parade.

Board members are Jennifer Cheramie, Sheila Cheramie, Willie Cheramie, Gwen Pitre, Charlene Griffin, Glenda Sanamo, Elaine Blanchard and Lily Jambon.

The krewe’s president is Jennifer Cheramie.

The krewe was formed in 1984 and

The female Krewe of Galatea takes its 46th ride through the streets of Morgan City to the theme, “The Krewe of Galatea is Vogue.”

Members ride aboard 17 decorated floats.

The mystic krewe’s 2015 Royal Court was announced at its Jan. 29 ball. They are: Queen Galatea LXXVII Mrs. Charles Richard King Galatea LXXVII Craig Bennett Maids: Mrs. Carey Barron, Mrs. Brian Belle, Mrs. Gerard Byrnes Jr. and Mrs. Tillman Simmons Dukes: David Fuhrer, Omar Bassa, Slade A. Sanders and the late Mr. Travis Crouch Pages: Haley A. Denning, Chalie Ann Fuhrer, Madison G. Simmons, Rhett U. Thomas, Aidan C. Treser and McClendon T. Tresser Mrs. William Picou is this year’s parade lieutenant.

The organization was formed in 1969 by its first captain, Adrienne Engel,

February 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 35

and is designed to allow the ladies of Morgan City to share in the Carnival experience.

The parade starts on the corner of Second and Brashear streets and travels to Onstead, turns right on Sixth Street, left on Marguerite Street, right on La. Highway 70, left on the north side of Brashear Street, right on Victor II Boulevard and right again on Myrtle street where it disbands.

Krewe of Cleopatra Monday, Feb. 16, 6:30 p.m.

(Houma)

The Krewe of Cleopatra is Terrebonne Parish’s only Lundi Gras parade.

Founded in 1987, this is the krewe’s 28th anniversary. Cleopatra has more than 600 members, making it Terrebonne’s Queen largest women’s CarniCleopatra XXVIII val club.

Jackie Ledet Members ride on 21 double-decker floats, plus the queen’s float.

The parade features music from Terrebonne, Ellender, St. James, Morgan City, Delcambre and South Terrebonne high schools and Houma Jr. High, as well numerous truck bands, sound systems, marching groups and deejays.

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The Selucrey Sophisticats also partake in the merriment.

Throws include doubloons, cups, koozies, light-up items and stuffed animals.

Cleopatra’s floats are rented from the Krewe of Caesars in Metairie and the artwork is done by Blaine Kern. Cleopatra takes great pride that when they roll down the streets of Houma their floats are being seen for the first time in the area. This year’s theme is “Cleopatra Dances Thru Broadway.”

Members are issued tunics, which they decorate to match their float theme.

The 2015 Royal Court is: Queen Cleopatra XXVIII Jackie Ledet Ladies-in-Waiting: Barbara Carter, Angel Glisson, Tracey Hebert and Wendy Rodrigue Karen Rhodes is parade captain.

Cleopatra annually hosts “Mona’s Kids at Heart,” a Halloween charity.

Members dress in costume, decorate Courthouse Square and hand out candy to Terrebonne youngsters. The event draws more than 1,000 children each year.

Club members also donate yearly to the Good Samaritan’s Food Bank.

The members try to live by the motto: “Women are not only generous through our hearts and wallets the day we ride, but also throughout the year.”

The parade begins at Southland Mall, rolls down West Park Avenue to Hollywood Road, takes a right then a left to West Main Street where it proceeds to

daughters or nieces of members of the krewe.

The court is revealed several weeks before the tableau at a private function, however, remains secret until the night of the event. Christopher’s royalty and theme are revealed Lundi Gras at the Warren Harang Municipal Auditorium in Thibodaux. An invitation-only ball follows at Nicholls State University in the Bollinger Ballroom.

Barrow Street, takes a right and disbands at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center.

Krewe of Christopher Tableau Only Monday, Feb. 16, 8 p.m.

(Thibodaux)

The Krewe of Christopher was organized in 1954 and currently has 110 members. The organization does not have a parade and holds only a tableau and ball.

The krewe’s tableau, which is open to the public, is scheduled for the evening before Mardi Gras at the Warren J. Harang Jr. Municipal Auditorium. As per tradition, the 2015 theme and royal court are revealed to the general public on the night of the tableau.

Last year’s theme was “World Tour.”

The 2014 Royal Court were King Christopher Barry Ledet, Queen Gabrielle Marcello, eight dukes, eight maids, six pages and eight ladies in waiting.

Krewe of Gheens Tuesday, Feb. 17, 11 a.m.

(Gheens)

The krewe’s ball captain is David Gauthreaux. Co-captains are Randy Teeter, Glenn Froisy and club President Mark Perque.

The krewe was organized in 1954 by several Catholic men who wanted to bring New Orleans’ Mardi Gras pageantry to Thibodaux. Their motto:

“Every Man a King!”

The year’s previous king selects the incoming king through a random drawing. All members are similarly chosen as dukes, ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to sit on the royal court. The queen, maids, pages and ladies in waiting are daughters, grand-

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The laid back Krewe of Gheens allows for anyone to participate in their parade as long as they have “something to pull.”

Each year the members make their own floats, without the restrictions of a particular theme. This year the 13 floats wind through the streets of Gheens with revelers tossing traditional throws, such as beads, cups and more. Deejays

supply the music.

The Krewe of Gheens was formed in 1972 as a community project and now has more than 100 members.

The parade begins on Highway 654, rolls to Pecan Street, then up Oak Street and back to Highway 654 where it disbands at Company Canal.

Krewe of Houmas Tuesday, Feb. 17, 11 a.m.

(Houma)

The Krewe of Houmas will once again stage a procession that is the highlight of Mardi Gras in Houma.

Founded in 1946, the oldest krewe in Terrebonne Parish will present a 17-float procession King Houmas along Houma’s tradiLXIX Andre’ tional westside route.

Daigle The Mardi Gras Decorators’ designed floats depict the joys of living as Houmas celebrates “Laissez les Bon Temps Rouler.”

Look for nine school bands to vie for the 2015 Best Band award, includ- Queen Houmas LXIX Kaylie ing the Vandebilt Terrier Collins Regiment. Other invited bands include last year’s

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Houmas’ Marching Band Competition Grand Champion Scotlandville Magnet, E.D. White, Bogalusa, Friendship Capitol, Southern University Lab, H.L. Bourgeois and East Feliciana high schools and Grand Caillou Middle School. In addition, the parade will see New Orleans’ own Big Fun Brass Band and the return of national recording artist and Houma natives Baby Bee on the Royal Entertainment Float.

The krewe throws emblemed necklaces and doubloons in addition to the coveted Houmas’ medallion bead. The 300 men of Houmas begin their royal ride at 11 a.m. Mardi Gras Day. Ten-year-old Ben Thaden-Pierce, who has been diagnosed with retinopathy of prematurity causing him to go blind, is the krewe’s special guest, joining members at the tableau and parade. Ben’s story has been featured on the “Today Show” and “Rachel Ray,” as well as various news outlets.

The 2015 Royal Court is: King Houmas LXIX Andre’ Jerome Daigle Queen Houmas LXIX Kaylie Marie Collins Dukes: Claude Thompson, John Jaccuzzo, Kerry Matherne, Chad Cobb, Christopher Barker, Tom Watkins, Danny Rhodes and Charles Doskey Maids: Mary Francis Cannatam, Lauren Nicole Lirette, Sara Caroline Smith, Michelle Ann Groves, Courtney Claire Fondren, Aime’e Claire Naquin, Kaitlyn Elizabeth Oeser and Sara Margaret Favret

Boy Pages: Masters Teddy Gawlik, Jacques Gawlik and Scott Haydel Jr. Girl Pages: Misses Emmie Collins, Olivia Barker and Jolie Gawlik The parade begins at Southland Mall, rolls down West Park Avenue to Hollywood Road, takes a right then a left to West Main Street where it proceeds to Barrow Street, takes a right and disbands at Town Hall.

Krewe of Kajuns Tuesday, Feb. 17, 11 a.m.

(Houma)

The Krewe of Kajuns, founded by the Houma-Terrebonne Jaycees in 1966, follows the Krewe of Houmas on Fat Tuesday.

This year, the 49-yearold krewe rolls with 360 to 400 members on Kajuns Queen 16 throwing floats and Jenna Ford two independent floats depicting the theme “Kajun Dynasty.”

The Houma Shrine Club and various dance teams also participate in the festivities.

Riders throw limited edition 2015 Wooden Nickels, along with cups, beads, koozies and more.

The 2015 Krewe of Kajuns Queen is Jenna Ford.

The krewe’s parade captain is Mona Premeaux.

Originally known as a truck parade or the “Poor Man’s Parade,” the Krewe of Kajuns allowed local parade lovers to pay a small fee and drive their pick-up trucks in the parade and throw beads.

Kajuns now consists of all double-decker floats rented from the Krewe of Hercules, but will always be lovingly referred to as “The Truck Parade.”

Kajuns is still a family-oriented parade open to anyone – men, women and children.

The parade begins at Southland Mall, rolls down West Park Avenue to Hollywood Road, takes a right then a left to West Main Street where it proceeds to Barrow Street, takes a right and ends at Town Hall.

Krewe of Neptune

Catholic Church in Galliano and travels south along La. Highway 1 to the southern city limits of Golden Meadow where it disbands.

Tuesday, Feb. 17, noon (Galliano/Golden Meadow)

Celebrating its 49th year, the Krewe of Neptune rolls through Golden Meadow with 12 throwing floats and the Golden Meadow Middle School’s marching band.

This all-male krewe of 120 members was originally formed by F. “Toot” Theriot, Bobby Orgeron, Leonard Miller Jr., Harris Cheramie and Norman Theriot in 1966.

The first king and queen were Mr. and Mrs. Abdon Callais.

The krewe is mystic so the identity of the king remains secret until parade day. The 2014 king was Chas Cheramie.

Chuckie Cheramie, Corey Galjour and Jimmy Lafont are this year’s parade captains.

The procession begins at St. Joseph

affair.

Ghana’s Royal Couple will be revealed at the tableau and ball. This year’s ball theme is “A Night of Romance with the Krewe of Ghana.”

Ghana King The 2014 King and Lloyd Boyd Queen were: King Lloyd Boyd Queen Mary Ray The krewe’s current officers are: President Oliver Smith Vice President, Troy Hunt Ghana Queen Captain, Shonda Mary Ray Broom Co-captain, Helena Coleman Treasurer, Marshellia Thompson Recording secretary, Brad Coleman Financial secretary, Annie Davis Chaplain, Ryan Moses Members: Mary Ray, Alvin Turner, Melvin Johnson and Henderson Kennedy The Marvellettes Social Club and other interested citizens formed the krewe in 1972. Members of various organizations in the community also ride.

Ghana starts at the intersection of Martin Luther King Drive and Iris Street, to St Charles Street, left on Back Street, right on Narrow Street, left on East 7th Street, right on Canal Boulevard, left on North 2nd, left on Jackson Street, back to Canal Boulevard, right on East 7th, right on St. Charles Street, and finishes up with a left on Back Street.

Krewe of Ghana Tuesday, Feb. 17, 1 p.m.

(Thibodaux)

A parade organization rich in tradition and history, the Krewe of Ghana rolls through Thibodaux for its 43rd year with 20 decorated floats and several riding units.

The co-ed krewe’s parade theme for the 2015 Carnival season is “A Day of Love with the Krewe of Ghana.”

Along with second liners, a new addition to this year’s parade is the Atlanta Carribean Carnivale, a Georgia-based group. These special guests inspired Atlanta’s Carnival parade, and promise to be an exciting addition to this year’s

February 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 39

Krewe of Choupic Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2 p.m.

(Chackbay)

It started as a way for the local community to gather as one and the Krewe of Choupic has stayed true to its roots.

Now in its 32nd year, the co-ed krewe parades with approximately 150 riders on 10 floats.

Last year’s theme was “Anything Goes.”

The identities of this year’s king, queen and grand marshal are kept secret until the krewe’s

Mardi Gras Mambo, a tradition that dates back to 1986 when the krewe’s first royal couple was named. This year’s mambo is set for Feb. 14.

The 2014 Royal Court was: King Farrell Alleman Queen Janelle Morrison The parade starts on the northern end of La. Highway 304 and disbands at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church in Chackbay.

Krewe du Bonne Terre Feb. 17, 4 p.m.

(Montegut)

Krewe du Bonne Terre (“good earth”) celebrates its 43rd anniversary this year with the theme “#BoardGameMania.” The 85 member, co-ed Montegut organization throws oodles of beads, trinkets and treasures from floats and trucks. The king and queen have their own special float.

The 2015 Royal Court is: King Bonne Terre XLIII Kevin Alfred Queen Bonne Terre XLIII Tessie Alfred

Dukes: Eric Naquin, Alton Verdin, Jade Duplantis, Joshua Neil, Joshua Brunet, Justin Naquin, Alcee Dupre Jr., Dane Naquin, Randy Billiot and Jeff Plaisance King Bonne Jr. Terre XLIII Maids: Meghan Kevin Alfred Naquin, Mary Verdin, Lacy Duplantis, Annette Bascle, Kelli Brunet, Diana Chiasson, Donna Dupre, Tori Dufrene, Meagan Billiot and Andrea Plaisance King’s Pages: Gabe Queen Bonne Dardar and Kullen DuTerre XLIII plantis Tessie Alfred Queen’s Pages: Jayla Verdin and Abigale Verdin Sterry Naquin is the parade captain, while Shane Rodrigue serves as ball captain.

Earl “Stan” Gravois is the grand marshal.

The parade begins on Dolphin Drive in Montegut to La. Highway 55, south to Cypress Street, left on French Street, left on Old Oak Drive to La. Highway 55.

It then turns right on La. Highway 55 to

Dolphin Drive where it disbands at the intersection of Dolphin Drive and Cross Street.

Krewe of Hephaestus Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2 p.m.

(Morgan City)

The Krewe of Hephaestus, the oldest krewe in the Morgan City area, rolls for its 55th year.

This couples parade has marching music, festive floats and tons to throw.

The krewe is mystic so the parade’s theme and royalty are kept secret until their tableau and ball.

Last year’s theme was “Birds of a Feather.”

The 2014 Royal Court was: King Hephaestus LIV Troy Landry of “Swamp People” Queen Hephaestus LIV Alison Bergeron Dukes: Jonathan Murdock, Neil Loupe, Devin Leonard, Wes Pitts, Greg Caldwell and Scott Theriot Maids: Elizabeth Garber, Katie Conditt, Alexis Vaughn, Sarah Bourgeois,

Maggie Landry and Jacklyn Garber Knights: Dwayne Aucoin, Gregory Hamer Jr., Gary Hover and John B. Hover Pages to the King: King Sutton Fondren, Henry Hephaestus Thorguson and Sanders Troy Landry Foreman Pages to the Queen: Grace Broussard, Sydnie Broussard, Lexie Broussard and Meredith Maggio Court heralds: James and Spencer Fuhrer Queen Gift bearers: Rayne Hephaestus Hotard and Miley Hotard Alison Bergeron Joseph L. Menard served as ball captain.

Hephaestus was founded in 1961, and paraded for the first time in 1969.

The parade begins on the corner of Sixth and Sycamore streets and turns onto Marguerite Street, then to 9th Street, Clothilde Street and Victor II Boulevard. It disbands at the Municipal Auditorium.

Party Gras responsibly this Carnival season

By GUMBO STAFF There’s nothing quite like shouting to strangers in the streets amid flying prizes, flowing booze and bumping bass to provoke the party mentality buried inside every one.

After all, that’s half the point. But that’s no excuse for transforming into an insufferable jerk. Don’t fight over the throws, don’t pour beer on a baby’s head or curse at children and please obey the rules of order issued by authorities.

Houma Police Chief Todd Duplantis has asked that revelers follow these eight rules: • Stay on the proper side of the barricades, and where there are no barricades, stay at a safe distance from the floats and parade marchers. Do not stand or sit on the barricades, and do not put your arms, hands or legs between the barricades.

• No silly string is allowed within 300 feet of a parade route within the parish on a parade day.

• It is unlawful for any person to hold a child or adult older than 6 years old in his/her arms or on his/her back or shoulders within 10 feet of a float or parade viewers.

• It is unlawful for any person who is not a member of a carnival organization or other participant to

Authorities are asking the public to enjoy Mardi Gras, but to be mindful of parish rules and parade-going etiquette. follow a float or band during the parade.

• It is unlawful to use or possess any glass container within a 500-foot distance of a carnival parade route two hours prior, during and one hour following a parade.

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• Females should avoid carrying purses and wearing expensive jewelry.

• Loud profane music will result in an issued summons or an arrest.

Also, it’s still illegal for any person younger than 21 to purchase or possess an alcoholic beverage.

Alcohol isn’t for everybody. In Thibodaux and Houma, authorities have demarcated sober zones.

In Thibodaux, there are two “family friendly zones” for all Thibodaux parades this season: from front of East Thibodaux Middle School to Thibodaux Elementary School on East Seventh Street, and Chiasson Park on the corner of Jackson Street and West 10th Street.

In Houma, alcohol is prohibited in the area of a bus transit center near the corner of Barataria and Main streets.

Of course, there are the understood rules: Don’t throw items at the floats, do not engage in fisticuffs or other violent behavior, please wear shoes, and place trash in the proper receptacle.

And never drive while under the influence.

Carnival is two-plus weeks of fun. A large part of the fun is the partying, but we’d like to urge you to keep it civil and clean so as to not ruin the fun for those around you.

COURTESY | AMY KATZ

Hurricane Katrina cancelled the Broadway tour of “Annie” in 2005. The iconic production of America’s favorite orphan stops at New Orleans’ Seanger Theatre next week. Allan Ray Baker, who plays the 32nd president, Franklin D. Roosevelt, is pictured with Annie (Issie Swickle), Oliver Warbucks (Gilgamesh Taggett) and members of the cabinet belting out “Tomorrow.”

Sun comes out for ‘Annie’ at Saenger

By SHELL ARMSTRONG

Allan Ray Baker was days away from visiting New Orleans for the 30th anniversary run of “Annie” when Hurricane Katrina powered her way across the city.

Needless to say, plans changed.

That was 2005. Ten years later, the Seanger’s been refurbished and is grander that ever. So, too, is “Annie.”

The original creative team, including director Martin Charnin and choreographer Liza Gennaro, have returned and restored the family favorite to its original luster.

“We watched the events unfolding at an airport in Seattle,” Baker said in a phone interview. “We were waiting to get to our next gig and sat there watching very anxious.”

The cast raised money for those hardest hit by the storm throughout the rest of the tour.

Next week, the delightful musical starring the red head with a heart of gold returns as the sun shines brightly on the Saenger Theatre.

The show runs Tuesday, Feb. 3, through Sunday, Feb. 8.

Born in the comics, “Annie” delivers a cast of memorable characters: Daddy Warbucks, the millionaire who takes the orphan in and sees his life change for the better because of it; the despicable Miss Hannigan, who runs the orphanage in which Annie lives; and Pepper, Duffy and the gang at the orphanage.

It’s songs are equally memorable – “Tomorrow,” “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile” and “Easy Street” among them.

Baker is back as President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the same role he played in 2005.

“When I tried out, I thought they would use me as Bert Healy,” Baker said.

It would have seemingly been a natural fit. Baker is, after all, a longtime comedy writer, correspondent, photojournalist and self-described barbecue aficionado.

He was shocked to learn he’d landed the job of the 32nd president of the United States.

“I love doing Roosevelt. It’s such a great role, an incredible responsibility

and an honor,” the barbecue man said.

“I take the role seriously.”

In preparation, he watched footage he’d taped on TV, studying FDR’s vocal nuances and movements.

“The music in this show is so beautiful and the songs are so iconic,” Baker said. “It’s a great thrill to play the venues we’ve played. This role and this show are what an actor aspires to when they set out to perform.”

Baker said his favorite moment comes as the cabinet is singing “Tomorrow.”

“There’s a big crescendo where there’s wonderful harmony,” he said.

“The musical director came to me during rehearsals. He had me do the last note alone. I do a glorious flat note all by myself.”

The cabinet scene itself “is one of the great times I’ve ever had onstage.”

And the touring “Annie” is drawing a whole new generation of girls.

“It is a wonderful format for girls who see it,” Baker said. “And looking out at the audiences, we see grandmothers, too, who probably saw it when they were young. This show has been entertaining generations of people.”

February 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 41

A “cut-rate Charles Kuralt,” Baker put his life experiences in print in “Slightly Askew.” The self-published eBook is available for $9.99 on Amazon.

“One of my pride and joys is the 30 years of life traveling experiences I’ve enjoyed,” the author said.

The 30 chapters, packed with 300 photos, recounts work he performed covering six World Series, five Super Bowls, four Final 4s (including one in the Big Easy) and 15 championship fights, as well as sites and tales he encountered while writing for Route 66 Magazine.

“The thing about me is that I don’t just go to games,” Baker said. “It go with cars that break down and have smoke coming out of them. The book recounts my misadventures along the way. Believe me, they happen.”

Ironically, it was on a visit to New Orleans, during a stop at a voodoo shop that Baker shelled out a buck with the wish that his book would get published.

“Eventually, I had to do it myself, but the voodoo priestess wasn’t there that day,” he said.

“I can’t complain. I did get to see Eric Clapton that trip.”

COURTESY

Good Company founder and frontman Mike Willis sees a good deal of band turnover, and he likes it. Good Company includes artists who have played with the best in all genres of music. When they find themselves between gigs, the musicians join Good Company. Playing everything from traditional, gospel, country and pop hits, as well as original material, Good Company arrives in Morgan City Feb. 3.

Band founder keeping Good Company

By SHELL ARMSTRONG

Mike Willis is keeping good company these days, literally.

The band Good Company, fronted by Willis, is a revolving cast of some of Nashville’s finest songwriters, vocalists and musicians.

“We import great talent wherever we go,” Willis told Gumbo in a phone interview from Key West.

For the band’s Feb. 3 stop at the Morgan City Municipal Auditorium, Good Company will include eight players, all experienced in a wide range of styles.

“Almost everybody in the band plays more than one thing,” Willis said. “And everybody sings lead.”

The members of Good Company have

played with a who’s who of stars – Lyle Lovett, Marc Broussard, John Mayer, Vince Gill, Bella Fleck, Ronnie Milsap, Johnny Lang, Kenny Loggins, Sugarland and Derek Trucks among them.

“We have a unique opportunity to take advantage of little situation when those artists change band members,” Willis said. When artists find themselves without another gig, they often fall into Good Company.

“We don’t ask them to come in and play predetermined parts,” he said. “We invite them to be themselves. We take talent that is flying under the radar and put them in the spotlight.”

That ensures every show has a different flavor. “Each one has our own personal stamp,” the founder said. “It

keeps it new every night.”

Willis said he started Good Company with a simple belief: that music is the common bond that brings people together through grace, understanding and appreciation.

The special lineup heading to Morgan City includes drummer Philip Lowman, bassist Reggie Sullivan, guitarist Aaron Rhodes, singer Heidi Burson, keyboardist Nick Brewer, Mica Read and Joel White, a United Kingdom find who “plays everything.”

“It’s a great blend. Reggie loves the jazz greats; Heidi brings us a bit of Aretha Franklin and R&B soul and Nick is an absolute magic man on keyboards.

He looks like Bob Marley but plays like Coltrane – if he played the keys.

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“We joke of Aaron that we don’t know where he came from,” he added.

“He just showed up with a guitar and one flip-flop. He plays like Stevie Ray Vaughn and adds a great sound to the band.”

Good Company’s exhaustive play list includes traditional, classic country, R&B, hits ranging from the 1920s through today, as well as thoughtful original compositions.

Good Company performs locally Feb. 3. Tickets are $45 for adults and $10 for students (K-12), and are available at the door.

For more information, call the Community Concert Association of Morgan City Inc. at 985-385-2307.

Gumbo Guru

Jolly Inn keeping Cajun culture alive and well

By GUMBO GURU Jolly Inn is a restaurant and bar, but for French Cajuns it is way more.

Before the screen door entrance to the mom-and-pop establishment closed, my guest and I had a view straight into the kitchen, over which IF YOU GO a lettered menu hangs.

JOLLY INN A few tables WHERE: 1507 Barrow St., are stationed Houma in the lobby PHONE: 985-872-6114 area, with an HOURS: Lunch is served daily open path to the cash regfrom 10:45 to 2 p.m.; dinner is ister where on Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m. we placed our WEB: thejollyinn.com order with a friendly server.

The menu consisted mostly of sandwiches and platters, typical offerings from a Cajun-styled establishment. There was no dessert listed, but daily lunch specials do come with a sweet side.

The big draw this Friday night was Couche Couche, a Cajun band that plays at Jolly Inn. At our waitress’ suggestion, I decided to give the Chicken and Sausage Gumbo ($9.99) a try, while my guest ordered the Seafood Platter ($16.95).

Once the order was called into the kitchen, we walked through the doorway and entered the Jolly Inn’s dining room, which clearly doubles as a dance floor.

We sat at the end of a set table of tables stacked to resemble a cafeteria.

The tables were covered with a greenand white-checkered tablecloth, adding to the homey feel.

During our brief wait, we took a gander at relic pictures telling the history of Houma and its people. Opposite the dining area is a stage where music is obviously on the menu for other occasions.

The room quickly filled to stand-

GUMBO GURU | GUMBO ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Couche Couche, a local Cajun French band, performs Friday nights at Jolly Inn. The band packs the house and keeps the dance floor busy with its blend of classic country hits and Cajun favorites.

February 2015 | houmatimes.com/gumbo | 43

ing-room-only as 8 p.m. neared. The audience, a cross-section of ages, included out-of-towners, the young set and more experienced dancers.

It should be mentioned that the restaurant, which offers two plate lunches each day, conducts a lot of its business with carry-out customers.

The food was delivered without a delay.

Jolly Inn is unmistakably casual, right down to its plate settings, which were Styrofoam plates.

The hearty gumbo arrived warm, accompanied by a side of delicious potato salad and a slice of French bread. The heaping amount of chicken and sausage made the gumbo a smart choice on this chilly Friday night.

The seafood platter included a mix of fried fish – shrimp, oysters and catfish.

The seafood was served over a bed of French fries and included a side salad, dipping remoulade and slice of French bread.

The shrimp were fried lightly, but were delicious, having a good flavor.

The most important characteristic of any seafood dish to my life-long Cajun guest is whether the dish is served fresh. And to her trained eyes, the shrimp appeared to be Louisiana made and Louisiana fresh.

Despite a packed house, our server checked in periodically. She was hospitable, but not overbearing, opting to do her job diligently while also giving us freedom to enjoy the food without constant bother.

The friendliness of the servers stuck with us. Between delivering dishes and refilling beverage orders, the staff urged folks to take to the dance floor and even don washboards and triangles with the band.

A rarity in buildings nowadays is the hardwood floor. Coming and going, our feet made a patter atop the gloss-free boards. The boards, like the antique advertisements hanging on the walls, are symbolic of the establishment’s atmosphere, a celebration of past times.

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