mardi gras 2010

SPECIAL EDITION /FEBRUARY 15, 2010

FEBRUARY 15, 2010 PAGE 32010 Special Edition

GENERAL715 Kirby St., Lake Charles, LA 70601Phone: 337-436-7800Fax: 337-990-0262www.thejambalayanews.com

PUBLISHERPhil de [email protected]

EditorEDITORLauren de [email protected]

ADVERTISINGSALES ASSOCIATESKaty CorbelloFaye DrakeSarah PuckettKarla Tullos

GRAPHICSART/PRODUCTION DIRECTORMichelle LaVoie

ART/PRODUCTION ASSISTANTDarrell Buck

BUSINESSOFFICE MANAGERKay Andrews

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The Jambalaya News is solely owned, pub-lished by The Jambalaya News, LLC, 826 FordStreet, Lake Charles Louisiana 70601. Phone(337) 436-7800. Whilst every effort was madeto ensure the information in this magazinewas correct at the time of going to press, thepublishers cannot accept legal responsibilityfor any errors or omissions, nor can they acceptresponsibility of the standing of advertisersnor by the editorial contributions. TheJambalaya News cannot be held responsiblefor the return of unsolicited manuscripts, pho-tographs or illustrations, even if they are sentto us accompanied by a self-addressed enve-lope. The views expressed do not necessarilyreflect those of the publisher.

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February 15, 2010 • 2010 Special Edition

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Produced ByMARDI GRAS KREWES6 Des Amis9 Athena10 Autre Chance12 Bons Amis16 Boucaniers18 Cajuns19 Carnivale20 Chaos30 Charlie Sioux22 Classique23 Cosmos25 Coullion Cadien32 Déjà vu27 Extraordinaire24 L’Ecore36 Famille40 Grand Bois43 Illusions44 Du Lac46 Lunatiques48 Maison de Calcasieu54 Marsh51 Omega50 Originales56 Sauvage

contents

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FEBRUARY 15, 2010 2010 Special Edition

It was a typical cold and snowyJanuary morning in Taunton,Massachusetts. I made myself a hotcup of coffee and Lauren her tea. Wesat by the window and looked outacross the yard covered with whitetwinkling snow and the frozen icicleshanging from the bushes.

“What would you like to do foryour birthday?” Lauren asked.

“Let’s get dressed up and go danc-ing somewhere!” I exclaimed. “I’vealways wanted to do that.”

“Where would we go?” comment-ed Lauren. “If you’re talking aboutthat place down the street, they justhad a shooting there last week.”

My dream of a wonderful eveningdancing the night away wasn’t goingto happen.

Then, we found Lake Charles.Our love affair with Mardi Gras

started just a few months after wemoved here. A friend of ours, DruSonnier, invited us to Twelfth Night atthe Lake Charles Civic Center. Andthen the Mardi Gras royalty came out.I remember saying “WOW!” every

time a new krewe emerged frombehind the curtain. I had lots of ques-tions: “What do they get if they’reKing and Queen?” “Why do peoplewant to be King and Queen?” “Whatdo Dukes and Duchesses do?”

Dru laughed and tried to explain.But it was like being in anotherworld. “You’ll understand more afteryou go to a ball,” she said. “It sure is alot of fun!”

Soon after, Bryan and JoyceAlexander invited us to our first ball.We were so excited! I thought thatmaybe now we would understandwhat Mardi Gras was really all about.Someone told me to buy a tuxedoright off the bat, so I did. And Laurenhad fun trying on different gowns.We were starting to get into it.

I’m not sure we slept much thenight before, talking about what wethought it would be like. So off wewent to Krewe du Bon Coeur’s 2004ball at Habibi Temple. What we sawwhen we walked in was awesome!The food, gifts, music and show wereall fabulous!

“This is what I was talking aboutlast year!” I yelled over to Lauren.“Remember when I said I wanted toget dressed up to go somewhere anddance? Remember?”

We spent the night dancing, eatingand drinking, and meeting people.We learned how to do the SecondLine, and got a kick out of all theumbrellas. But the night seemed toend as quickly as it began, and wedidn’t want to go home. It was cer-tainly an experience to remember.

“I wonder if we’ll ever get a chanceto go to another ball again, sweet-heart,” I said to Lauren in the car. “Ifnot, we’ll always remember this night.”

“Oh, we will,” Lauren replied. “Iget the feeling we will.”

Six years later, we are completelyimmersed in Mardi Gras. We go to anaverage of six balls a season. We havebeen Duke and Duchess of KreweDeja Vu du Monde, Duke andDuchess of Krewe de Charlie Sioux,Duke and Duchess of Krewe de laFamille, King and Queen of KreweDeja Vu du Monde, and this year, we

are King Famille XXXI and QueenFamile XXXI!

In addition, I am Captain ofKrewe Deja Vu du Monde andLauren is on the board of directors.She also helps write the script forKrewe de la Famille’s presentationand program every year.

It seems as if I’m always thankingyou folks down here every time Iwrite my publisher’s note, but I can’thelp it. Thank you all so much foropening your community and yourhearts and for sharing your MardiGras celebrations with us.

Now, we have something for you.We are so proud to present “TheMagic of Mardi Gras,” a special editionpublished by The Jambalaya News,highlighting the 2010 krewe royalty.Look inside and feel the magic!

Six years ago on a cold and snowyday in Massachusetts, Lauren and Isat at a frosted window. And this iswhat I dreamed of.

A Note From The Publisher

– Phil de Albuquerque

2010 Special Edition FEBRUARY 15, 2010 PAGE 5


Krewe Des Amis celebrated its 30thYear of Friendship on Sat., Jan. 30 in theLake Charles Civic Center Coliseum.The venue was transformed that onenight for the krewe members and gueststo celebrate the years and honor its cap-tain, Kenneth Istre.

The krewe was founded in 1980 whena small group of friends decided to cele-brate their friendship and invite others toshare the Mardi Gras season with them.From this gathering, Krewe des Amiswas born. Kenneth Istre was the found-ing captain who, along with his late wifeBecky Primeaux Istre as co-captain, hasserved the krewe since its inception.

The krewe honored Kenneth at hislast ball as their captain. He was escortedby his three daughters, Kristen Orndorff,Kourtney Haftmann and Kara Istre.Board member Sheryl Abshire, one ofthe founders, spoke of the history andthe memories over the last 30 years. Thekrewe then presented their captain withan original oil painting by local artistSue Zimmerman.

The 2009 royalty was introduced forthe final time: King and Queen Joe andMolly Jackson and their Dukes andDuchesses, Gerry and Ted Spell andChris and Paul Baldwin.

The first 2010 royal couple, Jack andMona Gabriel, was introduced as TheDuke and Duchess of Krewe Legacy.The couple resides in Lufkin, Texaswhere he is chief operating officer forBrookshire Brothers Food andPharmacy; she is office manager for theTexas Attorney General Child SupportDivision. Duke Jack obtained has hisbachelor’s degree and is on the board ofLufkin State School and is chairman ofTexas Retailers Association.

Duchess Mona received her bache-lor’s degree from Stephen F. AustinUniversity and is involved with theNational Child Support EnforcementAssociation and National Association ofProfessional Women. She also belongs toher church’s Ladies Guild. The couplehas two sons, John Jr. (Kelly) Gabriel andDaniel (Mel) Gabriel and four grandchil-dren – Lucas, Carson, Caden and Anna.They are active members of St. Andrewthe Apostle Catholic Church.

The couple depicted the krewe’s lega-cy was items from the crest featured ontheir Renaissance-style costumes. Bothwere fashioned from black satin with

embossed red fleur-de-lis.Embellished with red, black and gold

trim and appliqués, the costumes werefinished with yellow topaz stones. TheDuke’s backboard contained the crabfrom the Krewe’s crest as well as thefounding year, 1980. The Duchess’ fea-tured a fleur-de-lis and clasping hands,also from the crest. Both had ostrichplumes of red, black and gold.

The Duke and Duchess of KreweCelebrations, Jacqueline and AnthonyDuplechin, Jr. were next to appear. Thecouple resides in Baton Rouge. A geolo-gist for the Louisiana Department ofNatural Resources, the Duke is an alum-nus of Louisiana State University and amember of the American Institute ofProfessional Geologists, GeologicalSociety of America and the Baton RougeGeological Society.

Duchess Jackie, also a graduate ofLouisiana State University, is a teacher atSt. Thomas More Catholic School. She isaffiliated with the Louisiana Associationfor Health, Physical Education,Recreation and Dance.

The couple has two children, Aimeeand Jeremy, both of whom serve ourcountry in the armed services and aregrandparents to Caitlin and Alexandra.They attends St. Thomas More CatholicChurch.

Their costumes depicted the manycelebrations the krewe has shared overthe past 30 years. Duke Tony wore ablack tuxedo with tails and top hat.Duchess Jackie’s full ball gown featured

short cap sleeves and asweetheart neckline.Both outfits were heavi-ly encrusted with pur-ple, gold and greenappliqués, trims andstones. The Duke’s back-board featured a largemask, champagne bottlesand flutes and the year

2010 King & Queen, Phillip & Aimee Abshire

Duke and Duchess of Krewe Legacy, Mona and Jack Gabriel,Left; Duke and Duchess of Kewe

Celebrations, Jacqueline and Anthony Duplechin, Jr.


“2010” to honor the 30th year.The Duchess’ backboard had alarge mask and jester hat. Bothboards featured ostrich plumes ofpurple, gold and green.

The King and Queen of 2010finally made their appearance.Aimee and Phillip D. Abshire,III emerged to greet their friends.King Phillip is from Lake Charlesand is a staff accountant atLangley, Williams and Co, LLC.Queen Aimee, a Thibodauxnative, is currently a second gradeteacher at T.H. WatkinsElementary. They both graduatedfrom McNeese State University.

A krewe board member, KingPhillip is a member of theMcNeese Alumni Association andCowboy Club. He enjoys playinggolf and coaching baseball.Queen Aimee is also a kreweboard member and a member ofthe McNeese Alumni Association.She loves reading and shopping.Both are avid Cowboy fans andattend football games as membersof the Rowdy Road Wranglers.

The couple has one son, PhillipD. Abshire, III, and are membersof Our Lady Queen of HeavenCatholic Church. They are alsothe first members to serve as “sec-ond generation” king and queen,as Phillip’s parents were also Kingand Queen of Des Amis.

The King wore a long whitevelvet coat lined in gold with theKrewe crest on the back. Underthe coat was a short Rex-styletunic, with white tights and boots.The Queen’s white crepe backsatin ball gown featured a whitelace overlay with gold embroi-dery.

Both costumes were heavilyadorned with fleur-de-lisappliqués, beads, sequins, goldstones and rhinestones. The RoyalCouple wore the elaborate man-tles and capes of the krewe.

The krewe then toasted theirroyalty and were treated to a finalpromenade by the Court. Then itwas time to party to music byEasy Eddie and the Party Rockers.All court costumes were designedand fashioned by Kevin Hodge,and the photographer wasBarbara Hogan.


The Krewe of Athena celebratedits 8th Annual Mardi Gras Ball onSat., Jan. 16. The costumed ball fea-tured the many aspects of the LasVegas experience, from Elvis sight-ings to not-so-famous VegasShowgirls! Co-MC’s for the eveningwere Lee Peck and KellieHutchinson of KPLC-TV. Liveentertainment featured DarrellCrochet as Elvis. Music by theBayou Katz Band and Southern DJProductions provided for a greatevening of dancing.

Captain Athena VIII wasrevealed to be Vicki Smith Holderwho led the revelers in a Vegas Nightrepresenting the colorful Rio Casino.Captain Vicki is a native of Sulphur,a founding member of the Krewe ofAthena and a member of the Kreweof Cosmos. She is married to SteveHolder and they have two children,Jason Holder and AshleighSchexnider, a son-in-law Mike

Schexnider and two grandchil-dren, Chloe and GageSchexnider.

The krewe honored the sons,daughters and a niece of some of themembers by presenting them asPrincesses and Gents for 2010. ThePrincesses included Rachel Bourne,Kalie Guidry and Leisha Lawson.The Gents included Ian Woods andCody Verret.

Duchess Euphrosyne VIII wasrevealed to be Dana Taylor, repre-senting the Grace of Joy and Mirth.Duchess Dana is a charter memberof Athena and is also a member ofthe Krewe of Cosmos. She and herhusband, Ray Taylor, have five chil-dren: Nicholas and Josh Taylor, Craigand Lauren Bowman and NatalieTaylor Fontenot; a son-in-law, TimFontenot; daughters-in-law Randi

Taylor and Winter Bowman; andtwo grandchildren, Dava

and Carter. DuchessDana was

escorted byher hus-

band.

The Grace of Good Cheer andBlossoms was Duchess Thalia VIII,represented by Janci Bares. ASulphur resident, Duchess Janci isalso a member of the Krewe ofChaos. Her daughter, Joleigh MarieOliver, is five. She was escorted byher fiancé, Jeremy Caldwell.

Duchess Aglaia VIII wasrevealed to be Bridgit Simon Woodsas she represented the Grace ofSplendor and Brilliance. DuchessBridgit and her husband Ivy Woodshave five sons: Ian, Iryn “Joe,” Ivanand Isaac Woods and ScottyBertrand; a daughter-in-law RachelBertrand and a granddaughterBrinkley Bertrand. The Duchess wasescorted by her husband.

The Krewe of Athena welcomedthe pride of Vegas Nights with thearrival of the Queen of the Gods,Queen Hera VIII: Tisha GrosStringer of Sulphur. Queen Tisha isa 1992 Sulphur H.S. gradu-ate and holds a BSdegree inSecondaryEducation

from McNeese. She has been a mem-ber of the Krewe of Athena for sevenyears and the Krewe of Chaos forthree years. The daughter of Randyand Kat Gros of Sulphur, QueenTisha and her husband Scott Stringerhave two daughters, Maci and Bree.The Queen was escorted by her hus-band.

The Krewe of Athena was char-tered in 2002 and is a women’s krewefounded on traditional Greek andRoman mythology. It has a fullmembership of 130, with a substan-tial waiting list. Krewe philanthro-pies have included the Potter’sHouse, American Cancer Society, theAlzheimer’s Assn, SWLA AutismSociety and relief for hurricane andflood victims. Their Royal Court andBall Captain are chosen by the “luckof the draw” each year and thennotified by a limo party ride. TheWeb site is www.kreweofathena.com.

Queen of the Gods, Queen Hera VIII,Tisha Gros Stringer

Left to Right:Captain Athena VIII, Vicki Smith

Holder; Duchess Aglaia VIII, Bridget Simon Woods; QueenHera VIII, Tisha Gros Stringer; Duchess Euphrosyne VIII, Dana

Taylor; Duchess Thalia VIII, Janci Bares


Krewe des Bons Amis presented itsfifth annual Mardi Gras Ball on Feb. 6,2010 at the Habibi Temple in LakeCharles. With a theme of “It’s FiveO’Clock Somewhere,” the ballroom wastransformed into a tropical paradise. Hugeumbrellas, breathtaking island scenes andbeautiful sunsets filled the room. Krewedes Bons Amis alternates between cos-tume and formal balls, and this year wasthe costume ball. Hawaiian shirts, sarongsand flip-flops could be seen everywhere.

Krewe President Jimmy Bastow wel-comed the guests and introduced theboard of directors. Captain Jackie Bastowand Co-Captain Carrie Cubbageinformed the crowd that the Tiki Bar wasopen and blew the whistle marking thebeginning of the ball. After a little good-hearted banter with the crowd, the micro-phone was turned over to Master ofCeremonies Justin Morris.

A fond farewell was bid to King HenryIV, David Barber and Queen Anne IV,Amy Gerard as they made their finalwalk.

The 2010 Royal Presentation beganwith the introduction of the King andQueen. To a medley of “CaribbeanQueen” and “Conga,” King Henry V,Dennis Lavergne and Queen Anne V,Judy Lavergne made a stunning entrance.Queen Anne’s dress was tropical pink incolor and accented with rhinestones. Theasymmetrical fringed hem incorporatedlush shades of blue, green and yellow.King Henry’s white linen suit was perfectfor a hot evening, complete with sea-blueshirt and chartreuse tie.

2010

King Henry V &

Queen Anne V,

Dennis and Judy Lavergne


The King and Queen are residents of Westlake.They own J. H. Auto in Westlake, and Judy isemployed by Stockwell, Sievert, Viccellio, Clementsand Shaddock Law Firm as a legal assistant. TheKing and Queen have three children, AshleyDuhon, Brittney Parker and Kelly Shaw, and fourgrandchildren. They are active in the AmericanLegion Post 407 and the Buccaneers of LakeCharles, and have been members of Krewe desBons Amis for five years. They both enjoy boating,fishing and riding their motorcycles. The King cur-rently holds the position of Sgt. at Arms with thekrewe.

To entertain the King and Queen, Alan Jackson(Craig Arabie) and Jimmy Buffett (Michael Allen)performed the theme song of the ball, “It’s FiveO’Clock Somewhere,” with the help of the BonsAmis Actors as the adoring crowd.

The Duke and Duchess of the Cajun Rivieranext took the stage. Who knew when the Duke wasjoined by some of his buddies at the beach that the“girl watching” would get him in so much trouble?But of course it did, and before you know it, theDuchess is dragging him away from the action. Butthat was not all - - two women were left fightingover him! The Duke and Duchess walked off, onlyto show up next on Holly Beach, complete with a“pick-up truck” and all the fun things that happenon the Cajun Riviera!

Duke and Duchess of the Cajun Riviera wereBrad and Diana Hebert. Residents of Moss Bluff,Diana is employed by Calcasieu Rentals as officemanager and bookkeeper, and Duke Brad is super-intendent at M & C Oilfield Services. They are theparents of three children, Hope Trahan, JenniferFaust and Marcus LeDoux, and have four grand-children. Diana is currently vice president of Krewedes Bons Amis, and Brad is float chairman.

It’s Five O’Clock at the Bons Amis Lounge andthe “Single Ladies” are out for a night on the town.With a bottle of tequila in tow, the girls come to theaid of one of their own when “Tequila Makes herClothes Fall Off.” Thanks to her good friends, it allends well.

Entering the stage next was The Duke andDuchess of the Caribbean. As the crowd sippedon pina coladas and other umbrella drinks withvisions of a hot Havana night, the steamy entertain-ment began. The Duke expressed himself on anauthentic conga drum while working the crowd tothe tune “Frenchman of the Caribbean.” TheDuchess made her entrance onto the stage of theBons Amis Lounge and heated up the room to thesounds of “Hot Hot Hot.” Together, they createdIsland Magic as they performed the mambo.

Duke of the Caribbean was Jimmy Bastow andDuchess of the Caribbean was Irma Bordelon.Duchess Irma is a registered nurse and an employ-ee of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. She and herhusband Kenneth are the parents of two sons,Mark and Darren Bordelon, and have four grand-children. Irma has been a member of the krewe forfive years.

Duke Jimmy Bastow is a safety supervisor atCitgo Petroleum. He and his wife Jackie have twochildren, Jason Jones and Amy Jones, and threegrandchildren. Jimmy is a founding member ofKrewe des Bons Amis and is currently serving askrewe president. The Duke is also a member of theBuccaneers of Lake Charles, Mardi Gras of SWLAand the Calcasieu Boat Club.

It’s Five O’Clock in the Islands when The BonsAmis Actors performed the Conga Line, picking upguests along the way.

The Duke and Duchess of Paradise are onvacation and living the good life. The Duke ful-filled his lifelong dream to sing on stage while hisDuchess worked the crowd on his behalf. Beachballs were everywhere, compliments of theDuchess. Once his big moment was over, theyasked themselves “What would Jimmy Buffettdo??” The answer was: Take a dream vacation tosunny destinations; to put their toes in the waterand you-know-what in the sand and end their tripon the beach drinking pina coladas and watchingthe sunset.

Duke and Duchess of Paradise were Charlesand Leslie Cubbage. Leslie is employed by

SouthernCare Hospice as Community RelationsDirector. She is a founding member of the kreweand is currently Bons Amis’ Webmaster and histo-rian. Charles is employed by Vector Electric andControls as a foreman at PPG, and is also a found-ing member of the krewe.

At the close of the presentation, the Royal Courtwas honored with a champagne toast from mem-bers and guests. The Court then led the SecondLine celebration, with guests joining in.

The 2010 Ball Decoration Chairperson wasJody Fawvor and Ball Chairperson was AmyGerard. Lighting was provided by DonaldGreenwood and Southern DJ Productions. Thanksto American Legion Post 407 and Isle of Capri fortheir generous support.

The Bons Amis Actors were Anna Allen, JackieBastow, Carrie Cubbage, Tamara LaRocca,Christine Stevens and Angie Wilson.

Attendees were entertained by the band BayouKatz. Information on membership and other krewedetails may be found onwww.krewedesbonsamis.com.

Co-Captain Carrie Cubbage,Captain Jackie Bastow

Duke & Duchess of the Cajun Riviera

Brad and Diana Hebert

Duke & Duchess of the Carribbean

Jimmy Bastow and Irma Bordelon

Duke & Duchessof Paradise

Charles and Leslie Cubbage

2010 Krewe des Bons Amis Royal Court


Specializing inPirate Accessories,Fleur de Lis Items,

Jewelry and Hair Accessories


The Krewe de la Boucaniers“Landed in Key West” on Sat., Jan.30, 2010 in the Contraband Roomof the Lake Charles Civic Center.

The pirate-themed krewe festiv-ities began at 7 p.m. when theMaster of Ceremonies, DaleMann introduced the BoardMembers: Sherman Corbello,Constable (President), KamJakubek, First Mate (Vice

President); Donnie Istre, SecondMate (Membership); AlbertBroussard, Scribe (Secretary) andKeith Jagneaux, Keeper of theBooty (Treasurer).

Also introduced for their lastpromenade were the 2009 KingCalico Jack II and Queen AnneBonny II, Albert and SharonBroussard and their Court: TerryEwing and Pat Burns, Derrek and

Angela Murray, Keith and EllenJagneaux and Donnie and SherriBarber.

The 2010 Captain, Lloyd Lauwpresented the 2010 Royal Court.Originally from Natchitoches,Lloyd is a graduate ofNorthwestern State and McNeeseState University. He is married toJoNell Spears and is the owner ofLloyd Lauw Collision RepairCenter in Sulphur. A member ofEast Ridge Baptist Church, hishobbies include woodworking,golf, fishing and charity work forthe Rotary Club. Lloyd is involvedwith the Buccaneers of LakeCharles where he is the 2009 JeanLafitte. He has served as past pres-ident of the Buccaneers of LakeCharles and Contraband Days, Inc.for 2001, 2006, and 2007. Lloydwas greeted by 2009 Captain RussGrantham, where they acknowl-edged each other with the crossingof swords.

With the sound of the Captain’swhistle, the first ship to dock wasThe Caribbean Jewels, representedby Duke Don and DuchessDebbie Brade. Duke Don is anative of Dubuque, Iowa. He is agraduate of Sowela TechnicalCollege and works in countersales for Johnson Supply. Heenjoys traveling and hasserved as socialchairman forthe

Buccaneers of Lake Charles. Duchess Debbie Brade is a

native of Hanover, Illinois. She is agraduate of the University of Iowaand Finley Hospital School ofNursing and is a registered nurse atWest Cal Cam Hospital. Debbie isinvolved with the McNeeseCowboy Club, the Krewe ofCaroline and serves as president ofKrewe de la Maison de Calcasieu.She enjoys reading and cruising.Don and Debbie live in Sulphurand have one daughter, Kristin.They are members of ImmaculateConception Church in Sulphur,and have been members of thekrewe for two years.

The next ship to dock was TheDragon’s Breath with Duke Jerryand Duchess Loretta Ousley.Duke Jerry is a native of FairHope, Alabama where he graduat-ed from Linden High School. Heserves as Captain of the Isle ofCapri Casino ship. Jerry shares histime with United Way and MDA,along with Good Guys Car Cluband Harley Davidson’s HOG andRetreads.

Duchess Loretta, a native ofLake Charles, graduated from


LaGrange High School, Demmons School ofBeauty and Louisiana Massage Therapy. She is astylist and the owner of University Hair Cuttersin Lake Charles. Loretta enjoys riding herHarley, and spending time with her grandkidsand her husband. Jerry and Loretta are membersof Krewe de la Maison de Calcasieu and theBuccaneers of Lake Charles and charter mem-bers of Krewe de la Boucaniers. They are theparents of Michael, Andrea, Brandon, Brittanyand Branson.

The third ship to sail in was The QueenAnne’s Revenge, represented by Duke Johnnyand Duchess Linda Savoie. Duke Johnny is anative of Cutoff, Louisiana and is a graduate ofSouth Lafoushe H.S. He is the electrician generalforeman for Kellogg Brown & Root. A memberof the Buccaneers of Lake Charles, Johnny enjoysboating, hanging out with friends and fishing.He also enjoys football, especially Saints games!!!

Duchess Linda is a native of Chicago and is agraduate of DeQuincy High School and Joliet Jr.College in Joliet, Illinois. An operations superin-tendent with Sasol North America, Linda alsoenjoys reading, working in the yard and being ahomebody. The couple resides in Carlyss and hasa daughter Tabitha and a son-in-law KoreyDugas, along with three grandchildren, Grant,Cohen and Hallie.

The final ship to arrive was The Black Pearlwith Duke Doug and Duchess Wanda Dupin.Duke Doug is a native of New Orleans, but grewup in Lake Charles where he graduated fromLaGrange Senior H.S. and attended McNeeseState University. Doug is retired from Lyondelland works with Topcor Services. He is a mem-ber of HOG International and ShockerInternational Society and is an honorary mem-ber of CMD Racing. He also enjoys cooking.

Duchess Wanda is a native of Minden,Louisiana and has been an office manager for theIsle of Capri for 15 years. She is a graduate ofBroadmoor H.S. in Baton Rouge and is a pastPillar’s Club member. Wanda enjoys collecting

frogs and is involved in various charities throughthe Isle of Capri. Doug and Wanda are chartermembers of the 18 Mile Club, Krewe de laBoucaniers and have been members of theBuccaneers of Lake Charles for seven years. Theyboth enjoy riding motorcycles, partying andspending time with their children Edmond,Adrienne and Kari Beth; grandkids Bayleigh,Marcus, and Staci; son–in–law Stu Taylor; theirdog son, Rusty and granddogs Daxie and Mr. T.

Finally, the Royal Monarchs were presented:2010 King Calico Jack III and Queen AnneBonny III—Donnie and Sherri Barber.

King Donnie is a native of Franklin and grewup on the West Bank of New Orleans. He gradu-ated from West Jefferson H.S. in Marrero andNicholls State University in Houma.Queen Sherry is a native of Waynesboro,Miss. and grew up in Clara, Miss. She is agraduate of Clara H.S. and Jones CountyJr. College The Royal Couple met inMississippi in 1986 while Donnie was ona deer-hunting trip, and were marriedtwo years later.

Shortly after their marriage, theymoved to Dubai for Donnie’s job withConoco, where their son Jonathan wasborn. They eventually moved to MossBluff and fell in love with the area. Theirdaughter Taylor was born in 1994 andhas had control of the family ever since.Both children attend Sam Houston HighSchool.

Donnie is currently employed byTarga Resources and is a corrosion tech-nician on their gas pipeline system inSouthwest Louisiana. Sherry is currentlyworks as a private childcare provider inMoss Bluff. They are members of theMoss Bluff United Methodist Churchand both enjoy playing music, boating,spending time with their children andsocializing with their many friends. TheKing and Queen are charter members of

the Krewe de la Boucaniers, and members of theLake Charles Buccaneers and Calcasieu BoatClub.

After their promenade, King Calico Jack III,Donnie Barber and Queen Anne Bonny 11I,Sherri Barber were toasted by King Calico JackII and Queen Anne Bonny II. The kings andqueens traditionally exchanged swords to cele-brate the new Court.

The 60 krewe members were dressed in for-mal pirate attire that included 18th centurygowns for the ladies and gentlemen’s pirate coatsfor the men. Their guests were also in traditionalpirate costumes. Groups were able to take pic-tures with Gary Meek while enjoying music anddancing with City Heat.

Duke & Duchess Don and Debbie Brade

Duke & DuchessJerry and Loretta Ousley

Duke & DuchessJohnny and Linda Savoie

Duke & Duchess Doug and Wanda Dupin

Captain, Lloyd Lauw


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Krewe of Chaos held itsfifth annual Mardi Gras ball Jan.30, 2010 in the Isle of CapriFlamingo Ballroom. This year’stheme revolved around thetotally rad times of the 1980s.

Upon entering the ballroom,Chaos krewe members and theirguests walked through a 10-footguitar arch, and were greetedwith the CTV (ChaosTelevision) logo and graffitipainted on a brick wall. Flames,rock bands and amplifiersscreamed out to guests that the

‘80s are still a good time withChaos members.

Huge spiraling balloonbouquets of lime greenand hot pink balloonscovered the tables,

along with fiber optic accentlights.

Emcee Timmy Wilson,dressed in ‘80s tuxedo attire,greeted Chaos members andguests. He fondly remindedthem of the days of Aqua Net,ET phoning home and tight-rolled jeans. The ‘80s were atime when attitudes were bigand hair was bigger.

Krewe of Chaos’ 2010 offi-cers were introduced startingwith Captain Todd Bruney, fol-lowed by the Co-captains:Krewe Events, Vanessa Clavier;Finance, Scott Jackson; andKrewe Relations, Ashley White.

The 2009 King Chaos III,Dean Manning, and QueenGaea III, Wynn Manning, were

summoned to bid farewell totheir Chaos subjects to the tuneof “Beat It” by Michael Jackson.

The adventure continued asthe first 2010 Duke and Duchesswere spotlighted on the presen-tation floor. With the Star Warstheme song as their entry, thiscouple from a galaxy far, faraway has been one with theforce for 17 years.

Byron and Chelle Martinwere introduced as DukeMillennium Falcon andDuchess Tattoine. Duke Byronis a full-trained Jedi knight whois employed by PPG. Chelle is afreelance artist and a windowdresser at Memorial HospitalGift Shop who does seasonalwork at Spirit Halloween and

2010King Chaos IV & Queen Gaea IV

Rod and Mikki Myers

Captain Todd Bruney


Emily’s Children’s Store. The Sulphur residentsare the parents of Blake and Bryce.

The second couple hit the floor with “Don’tYou Love Me,” a hit song that was grinded intoour minds with the ‘80s hit movie, DirtyDancing. This Duke will never put his baby inthe corner. Chad and Earline Stapleton ofOakdale were presented as Duke Johnny Castleand Duchess Baby. They’ve been having thetime of their lives for the 21 years they havebeen together. Chad is employed by Basell andEarline is a homemaker. They are the parents ofCarlie.

To the tune of “Don’t Stop the Rock,” thenext Duke and Duchess brought us the danceexplosion of the ‘80s – Breakin’. He was afamous b-boy and she was his private dancer,wearing her pink leg warmers. Tim and TracyRichard were Duke Ozone and Duchess Popand Lock. Tim is employed by Triad Electricand Tracy is employed at Our Lady’s School.They are the parents of Kaylee, Tanny andIsabella.

Take your passion… and make it happen!The next totally rad couple, originally from NewOrleans, are fans of Flashdance. His favorite ‘80sfashion was Girbaud Jeans and her fav MTV DJwas Downtown Julie Brown. What a feeling!These Flashdance lovers are Duke Maniac andDuchess Manhunt – Jason and Charise Meyer.Jason is employed by Reynolds and Reynolds andCharise is a stay-at-home mom. They are the par-ents of Brooke, Ellie and Kali.

The Krewe of Chaos’ fourth royal coupleentered the ballroom wearing Chaos customcollars and trains of purple and white. Rod andMikki Myers were presented as King Chaos IVand Queen Gaea IV.

Her Royal Highness is a totally tubularSulphur native who graduated from McNeeseState University. Queen Gaea IV is self-employed as an interior consultant for InteriorInnovations and has been married to her brassmonkey for 12 years. She loves to read, traveland spend time with her family. Her purple“Members Only” jacket still hangs in the closet.

His Royal Highness is a graduate of LamarUniversity Institute of Technology and isemployed at Sylvan Special Systems. Mr. Fix-It’sfavorite pastimes are jeeping, hunting, spendingtime with his family and piddling in his shop.This prep boy still loves his ‘80s big hair bandslike Def Leppard, Van Halen and Warrant. Hisfav song of all time is “Mickey” by Toni Basil.

The King and Queen are the parents of 9-year-old Peyton and 7-year-old Regan, and havebeen adopted by their neighbor’s dachshund, Jack.

Music was provided by Deep SouthProductions. Allison Everage was ball commit-tee chair and Kami Thompson was assistantchair. Vikki Shearman was court committeechair, and Kristi Tyree was assistant chair.

Krewe of Chaos was chartered in February2005 as a social organization with the sole pur-pose of bringing together family and friends tocelebrate the merriment of fellowship year-round.

2010 Krewe of Chaos Royalty

Duke Maniac & Duchess Manhunt

Jason and Charise Meyer

Duke Ozone & Duchess Pop and LockTim and Tracy Richard

Duke Johnny Castle & Duchess Baby

Chad and Earline Stapleton

Duke Millenium Falon & Duchess Tattione

Byron and Chelle Martin


Krewe De Classique held their 23rd annualMardi Gras ball at the Habibi Temple on Sat., Jan.30, 2010.

The Washington-Marion High School JuniorROTC Color Guard opened the ball, and localvocalist Natashia Guidry sang the nationalanthem. The Royal Court for 2009, which was ledby King and Queen Classique XXII, Frederickand Geraldine Simonet, was introduced by theMistress of Ceremonies, Jackie Semien of KFDMTV-Channel 6 News.

Making her debut for 2010 was the lovelyTa’lar Broussard, a senior at Washington MarionHigh School.

This winter season has seen record-breakingweather, from frigid temperatures to unprecedent-ed amounts of snowfall. In bringing SWLA a tasteof winter, the new krewe Captain FrederickRideaux and Consort Nellie Rideaux led the way

on a tour of Winter Wonder-lands.The Duke and Duchess of North American

Wonder-lands, Charles and Linda Wilkins,entered in splendor depicting New York City.Krewe members dressed the part in beautiful cos-tumes featuring red, white and blue, full-lengthcoats with snow shovels. There was even a pair ofAlaskan “Hotties” to help warm things up.

The Duke and Duchess of Northern EuropeWonder-lands, Raymond Rideaux and TheresaCharles were greeted by krewe members dressedfit for the cold of winter.

Krewe members, adorned in fur and rhine-stones, performed a Russian dance to usher in theDuke and Duchess of Russian Wonder-lands,Charles and Linda Carrier.

Going further east, the Duke and Duchess ofAsian Wonder-lands, Tony Guillory andKimberly James were treated to a warm welcome

by krewe members dressed in beautiful Orientalattire.

The Princess of the South Pole, AngelaJones, was brought in by the Ice Festival flag bear-ers and the leaders of the festival to a sea of blue,white and silver.

In keeping with the tradition of glitter andglamour, Krewe De Classique presented KingClassique the XXIII Randolph Rideaux andQueen Classique the XXIII, Monica Rideaux.Krewe president and mother of the Queen, RubyGuidry, along with her husband Herman Guidry,attended the new King and Queen.

After the new Royal Couple was crowned andthe King made his royal proclamation, krewemembers started the party with a line dance andthe second line and the fun began!

Left to right: Attendant Ruby Guidry,Queen Monica Rideaux, King RandolphRideaux, and Attendant Herman Guidry

Captain & Consort,Frederick & Nellie

Rideaux

Duke & Duchess of NorthAmerica, Charles& Linda Wilkins

Duke & Duchess of Northern Europe,

Raymond Rideaux& Theresa Charles

Duke & Duchess of Asia,Tony Guillory &Kimberly James

Duke & Duchess ofRussia, Charles& Linda Carrier

Princess ofAntarctica,

AngelaJones

2010 Krewe de Classique Royalty


The Krewe of Cosmos celebrated its 60th annualMardi Gras pageant on Sat., Feb. 13, 2010. The kreweis the oldest in Calcasieu Parish and has opened itspageant free to the public since it was founded in1951. It was held in the Sulphur H.S. auditorium.

The Merry Makers of the festivities came out togreet the crowd with music and beads, followed bythe presentation of the krewe officers: President-JillLockhart, Vice President-Karen Farnum,Treasurer-Becky McCain, and Secretary-DawnLeBato. Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening wasDena Ford Phillips. The Captain of Jewels of theWorld introduced all of the precious jewels in ourtreasure chest—our 2010 Court.

The first to be presented was the “Aquamarine”gemstone, represented by Duke Warren Faulk andDuchess Wendy Faulk. Duke Warren is fromSulphur has been employed by Entergy for the past10 years as a serviceman.

Duchess Wendy is a native of Sulphur. She isemployed by Melanie Perry State Farm Agency andhas been a licensed team member for three years.Warren and Wendy have been krewe members of forfour years. They belong to St. Theresa CatholicChurch and are the parents of Kade, 7 and Chase, 3.

Next, was the “Amethyst” gemstone representedby Duke Jared Anderson and Duchess RobinAnderson. A DeQuincy native, Duke Jared has beenemployed by Conoco Phillips for the past 10 years.

A Sulphur native, Duchess Robin has beenemployed by the Calcasieu Parish School System foreight years and currently teaches at W. W. LewisMiddle School. Jared and Robin have been in the

krewe for four years. They are members of St.Theresa’s Catholic Church and have two children,Hayden, 5 and Hadley, 1.

The third couple, Duke Jason Wright andDuchess Caroline Wright, represented the“Sapphire” gemstone. Duke Jason is currently pursu-ing his MBA from McNeese and has been employedas a process engineer at W. R. Grace. He has been aKrewe member for four years.

Duchess Caroline is a native of Lake Charles.She currently attends McNeese State University, pur-suing a degree in General Studies. She has beenemployed by Oceans Healthcare as their corporateoffice manager for 1-½ years. She has been a Krewemember for two years. The couple has a dog, Lucy.They are members of First United Methodist Church.

Next was the “Ruby” gemstone, represented byDuke Courtney Mabou and Duchess JenniferMabou. Duke Courtney has been employed byLouisiana State Police for over 7 years and is a mem-ber of the Louisiana State Troopers Association andthe National Rifle Association. Courtney hasbelonged to the Krewe for seven years.

Duchess Jennifer is a native of Sulphur. She hasbeen employed by State Farm Insurance for the past7-½ years and has been a krewe member for the past10 years. The couple belongs to St. Theresa CatholicChurch and has two daughters, Madelyn Grace, 5and Avery Jane, 1-½.

After accumulating the most precious Jewels ofthe World, our famous archaeologist’s quest has final-ly come true. It is now time to reveal the 2010Captain of Krewe of Cosmos, Chuck Krause.

Captain Chuck has been employed by Briken andAssociates Real Estate for the past 11 years. Chuckhas been married to Becky Krause for 33 years andthey have a daughter, Paige. Chuck is a life-longmember of First Christian Church in Sulphur.He hasbeen an active member of the krewe for 26 years, andhe and Becky were King and Queen for the Krewe ofCosmos in 2002.

It was now time to introduce the Royal Monarchsof this evening’s expedition. The 2010 King of Kreweof Cosmos was King Louis de Fontainbleau, DavidRobbins. The 2010 Queen of Krewe of Cosmoswas Queen Isabella of Leon, Jennifer Robbins.

King David is a native of Sulphur and a 1974graduate of Sulphur H.S. Conoco Phillips hasemployed him as an operator for the past 24 years.Queen Jennifer is from Lake Charles and a 1979graduate of Lake Charles H.S. She is vice-presidentof sales at the User Friendly Phone Book.

David and Jennifer have been in the Krewe for 20years. They served as Duke and Duchess twice andhave participated in the annual krewe trips, paradeactivities, crawfish boils, pageant decorations andchaired adult pages. They are members of FirstChristian Church in Sulphur and have one son,Robert, 25.

After the Royal Court was presented, the Jesterscame out to entertain the crowd, dressed as “Minersand Material Girls” and performed to various songssuch as “Pretty Woman,” and “Material Girl.” Afterthe presentation, members and their guests attendedthe annual ball at the Lake Charles Civic Center.

King Louis de Fontainbleau & Queen Isabella of Leon, David and Jennifer Robbins

Duke & Duchess, Warren& Wendy Faulk

Duke & Duchess, Jared& Robin Anderson

Duke & Duchess, Jason& Caroline Wright

Duke & Duchess, Courtney& Jennifer Mabou

Captain, Chuck Krause


Krewe de l’Ecore held its 12th annual MardiGras Ball Fri., Feb. 5, at Habibi Temple, where thenight was spent Cruisin’ the Tropics. Mark Nixonwas the Master of Ceremonies.

The evening began with the presentation of the2010 debutantes: Mary Lizabeth “Mary Beth”Glass, 16, daughter of Jason and Liz Glass of MossBluff; Kourtney Claire Kennedy, 16, daughter ofGary and Monica Kennedy of Moss Bluff; KatelynMarie McCoy, 16, daughter of Vince and ColleenMcCoy of Lake Charles; Madison Olivia Nixon,16, daughter of Mark and Jacki Nixon of LakeCharles; and Madeline “Maddie” Joyce Smith,daughter of Wayne and Mel Smith of Moss Bluff.Miss Glass, Miss Kennedy and Miss Smith are stu-dents at Sam Houston High School. Miss McCoyand Miss Nixon are students at St. Louis CatholicHigh School.

The Grand Duke of Jamaica, Murray Reed,started the revelry as the Jamaican Rasta Man.The Grand Duke resides in Moss Bluff with hiswife of 25 years, Meg Reed. The couple has twochildren, Blake, 21, and Lexie, 15.

First to be presented was the 2010 King andQueen: Brandon and Sandy White of Moss Bluff.Their children, Prince Cade, 11 and PrincessAlyse, 3, preceded their parents, carrying theRoyal Banner of Krewe de l’Ecore.

His Majesty wore a white tuxedo accented withsilver sequin and rhinestone-embellishedappliqués. Her Majesty wore a white ball gownwith silver-accented brocade, featuring a rhine-stone-studded bustier and skirt of accented billow-ing tucks studded with paisley sequin. They wore

majesticcollars ofwhite andsilver bro-cading over-laid withcolorfulsequinedappliqués ofblue, hotpink, and sil-ver, with alarge dark bluefleur de leisappliqué in themiddle. The collarswere backed with anabundance of billowingwhite ostrich plumes. The RoyalCouple wore crowns adorned with crystal stones.

The King is employed by Benton Equipmentand Construction as a pipeline welder, and theQueen enjoys her time as a homemaker. They areresidents of Moss Bluff and attend St. TheodoreCatholic Church in Moss Bluff. They have beenmarried for 11 years.

David and Amanda Williams appeared next asThe Duke and Duchess of the Bahama Islands,representing the mythical Neptune and his bride.The Williams reside in Iowa and have been mar-ried nine years. They have two daughters: Hailey,5, and Brylee, 1.

Representing the Duke and Duchess of theHawaiian Islands were Damus and Amy

Broussard. The Broussardsreside in Iowa and havebeen married for two years.They have three children,Logan, 12, Reese, 9, and Darian,7.

Next came the Duke and Duchess ofthe Yucatan Peninsula, Jody and EmilyHarlow. The Harlows reside in Moss Bluff andhave been married for six years. They have threechildren: Grayson, 6; Presley, 2; and Bennett, 1.

The “Krewe of the Bluff ” was founded in 1998and has a current membership of 86 couples. TheBoard of Officers are Donna and Randy DeBarge,Russell and Shelly McNabb, Bryan and TeliseWinters, Roy and Ruth White, Vince and CathyCastille, Darrel and Anissa Darbonne, Kim andDwayne Chapman, and Mark and Jacki Nixon.

Entertainment was provided by The BackyardCowboys. The krewe photographer was RodRodriguez Photography.

Grand Duke of Jamaica,Murray Reed

Duke & Duchess of the Bahama Islands,David & Amanda Williams

Duke & Duchess of the Hawaiian Islands,Damus & Amy Broussard

Duke & Duchess of the Yucatan Peninsula,Jody & Emily Harlow

2010 King & Queen, Brandon & Sandy White


The Krewe Des Couillion Cadien celebrated its 2nd annual Mardi Gras Ball on Jan.23 with the theme “Lost in the 50’s.”

Reigning over the festivities were the 2010 King and Queen, Steve and RhondaPapadimitriou. King Steve wore an original 1950s-style suit with a grey wool jacket andblue pinstripe pants. He also wore an original black Fedora hat. Queen Rhonda wore ared 1950s-style suit with black and white polka dots on the sleeves, cuffs and collar withblack gloves. The King and Queen wore jeweled crowns and carried the royal scepters ofthe krewe.

King Steve is employed by Lloyd Lauw Collision Center. He is a 1986 graduate ofLaGrange High School. Queen Rhonda is employed by ERA Helicopters and is a 1989graduate of Lake Arthur High School and Delta School of Business.

The King and Queen have been married for 14 years and have two children, Bailee, 2,and Emilee, who is 11 years old and in the fifth grade at Immaculate Conception School.

The Royal Court was led by the Duke and Duchess of the Sock Hop, Duke Tony andDuchess Renee Hantz who reside in Westlake. They made their entrance by jitterbugging.

Next came the Duke and Duchess of the Wanderers, Duke Jimmy Gary fromWestlake and Duchess Jane Bordelon from Lake Charles. They made their entrance tothe song “The Wanderer.”

Last but not least were the Duke and Duchess of the Drive-In, Duke Don andDuchess Danna Johnson from Starks. They made their entrance with Duke Don in asmall hand-made car and Duchess Danna as the waitress of the Drive-In.

The Court put on a fabulous skit for the King and Queen and their guests. The pres-entation ended with their Highnesses and the Royal Court dancing to “Lost in the 50’sTonight” by Ronnie Milsap.

2010 King & Queen, Steve and Rhonda Papadimitriou

Duke & Duchess of the Sock Hop,Tony & Renee Hantz

Duke & Duchess of the Wanderers,

Jimmy Gary & Jane BordelonDuke & Duchess of the Drive-In,

Don & Danna Johnson


1717 Oak Park Blvd., Lake Charles • Second Floor(337) 479-2200 • Office Hours By Appointment


La Krewe des Gens Extraordinaires celebrat-ed 15 years of Mardi Gras merriment on Sat., Jan.9, 2010 at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Thekrewe presented “An Evening of Disco Fever,” atribute to the disco scenes of the ‘70s where dee-jays would play a smooth mix of long singlerecords to keep people standing, dancing andbopping all night long, under colored lights thatthrobbed to the beat. We all knew how to findthat party, and we could be who we wanted to be:wearing mini skirts one day and hot pants thenext. And don’t forget the platform shoes andbellbottom pants. The music was hot, the dancingwas hot and we looked hot.

The new Royal Monarchs are King RonaldAtlow and Queen Theresa Atlow. King Ronald isthe son of the late Joseph and Alice Atlow. Theowner of RRA Transportation, he is a native ofPearlington, MS. As a Vietnam veteran, he retiredfrom the Army with 21 years of service. He is amember of the American Legion Post 551 andenjoys fishing and golfing.

Queen Theresa Atlow is the daughter of WillieMae Mouton and the late Felix Mouton. A graduateof Washington High School and Delta Tech., shehas been employed with Calcasieu Parish SchoolBoard for 17 years. The Royal Couple are membersof Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.They have been married for 30 years and are theproud parents of two children, Mikel and Erin, andone very spoiled granddaughter, Ma’katlynn.Queen Theresa is a charter member of the krewe

Psyche Sims VanDyke is Duchess of theHustle. The daughter of Warren Davis and the lateArdalia Sims, she is married to Myron VanDyke,and they share five children. Psyche is currentlyemployed at PPG Industries, where she has been anoperator for the past seven years. She is enteringher third year as a krewe member. She also servesas a member of Mardi Gras Southwest, theAmerican Legion, NAACP, and has served in theU.S. Navy Reserve. The Duchess is currently a sen-ior at McNeese State University with plans to grad-uate in May of 2010. Her escort for the evening wasWillie Hamilton.

Shantal King is Duchess of the Bump. The

daughterof Dorothyand Willie King,Shantel graduated from Louisiana State Universitywith a Bachelor in Arts and Science in 2008. She isa member of North Lake Charles Kiwanis and herhobbies include traveling, reading, shopping andeating good food. Currently, the Duchess is work-ing on continuing her education while employed asa merchandiser for Lane Bryant and Carhartt WorkWear. She was escorted by her father.

La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinaires was found-ed in 1995. It is composed of extraordinary peoplefrom all walks of life who have made a commit-ment to foster and promote the joyous carnival byparticipating in all Mardi Gras activities inSouthwest Louisiana. The krewe looks forward tocontinuous Mardi Gras merriment in the spirit ofthe season. “Who we are makes the difference!”

Our Board Members are Ken Case, President;Dorothy King, Vice President; Lilly Vincent,Secretary; Thail Pete, Treasurer; Duane Gauthier,Sergeant-at-Arms; Sybil Irving, Ball Captain;Herman Joseph, Ball Co-Captain; and BarbaraForsythe and Mary Cravens. Members at Large.

Thanks to our ad sponsors!

King Ronald Atlow, left, and Queen TheresaAtlow, right; Duchess of the Hustle, Psyche

Sims VanDyke, above left; Duchess of theBump, Shantal King, above right.

The Krewe de Charlie Sioux was sanctioned by thestate of Louisiana in 1997. That same year, LakeCharles and Sioux City officially became SisterCities at a twinning ceremony in Lake Charles.Members consist of Sioux City, IA and Lake Charles,LA residents. Each city has its own krewe presidentand ball captain. Sioux City members come to LakeCharles for Mardi Gras and Lake Charlesmembers travel to Sioux City the week of July

Fourth and bring Mardi Gras to Siouxland in theform of a gala, parade and zydeco concert.

The purpose of the krewe is to promote MardiGras and share cultural experiences as well as devel-op tourism in each city. Sioux City donated thou-sands of dollars and goods to Katrina and Rita vic-

tims, as well as $3,500 towards Mardi Gras 2006 inLake Charles.

Dan Carlson, King Charles the 12th, formerly ofSioux City, and Queen Siouxland the 12th, LoriMarinovich of Lake Charles, reigned over this year’sfestivities in Sioux City. Their costumes were blackand white trimmed in silver, inspired by earlymovies and the Art Deco style.

Carol Roge

George Jacobson

Derrick Coulson

Pat Zimmer Cindy Lewin Mike Branch Kandy Pottebaum

Susan Selman

John Chavanne

Katie Jones

To participate in Krewe de CharlieSioux events, please contact

Blaine Bourgeois at 437-7927.

Queen Siouxland XII, Lori Marinovich of Lake Charles, left;

Dan Carlson, King Charles XII, formerly of Sioux City

2010 Special EditionPAGE 30 FEBRUARY 15, 2010 2010 Special Edition FEBRUARY 15, 2010 PAGE 31


Krewe Déjà vu Du Monde heldits 2010 Mardi Gras ball on Jan. 16in the Buccaneer room at the LakeCharles Civic Center.The theme for this year’s ball was“Twisted Fairy Tales,” echoing talesof fairies and other beings limitedonly to your imagination!

Master of Ceremonies for theevening was H. Gayle Marshall.Presented for the abdicating reignwas the 2009 Royal Monarchs KingTim Castle and Queen JenniferCastle.A moment of silence was observedin memory of Joe Broussard, ourcostume maker John Chavanne’slife partner, who passed awayrecently, and who had always beenan integral part of our Krewe.

Next, the board of directors wasintroduced: Founding membersKay and Gary Sonnier andJennifer Gill were presented, fol-lowed by the current board mem-bers: Dr. Tom Price, EileenGrantham, Frances Ferguson,Lauren de Albuquerque, TimCastle, Read Ellender, and Krewe repsBarbara Downer, Julie Babineaux, VickyHale, and Lenis Landry.

The 2010 festivities began with the blowingof the whistle by Captain Phil deAlbuquerque. The Krewe Crest was prome-naded by mascot Julie Babineaux, who wowedthe audience dressed as the angelic TinkerBell, sprinkling fairy dust in her path.

The Royal Presentation began with Dr. TomPrice introducing the 2010 King and Queenof Twisted Fairy Tales, Royal MonarchsGeorge (Tip) Cline and Gayle Cline.

His Majesty was garbed in regal robes ofpurple, black, white and silver with purple andblack ostrich feathers on his collar. Her Majestywas a vision as the Fairy Queen in a magnifi-cent teal mermaid-style gown with layers ofpeacock feathers. Her exquisite fairy wingswere silver and blue. The Royal Couple was

ready to rule the Kingdom of Twisted FairyTales.

King George, a retired mechanical contrac-tor, is a founding partner of C & WRefrigeration, and a columnist for TheJambalaya News. He earned his BS degreefrom Louisiana State University in 1965. Hehas been married to his Queen for 25 years.His Highness enjoys Medieval Recreation andis a member of the Society for CreativeAnachronism, Hiram Lodge 25 AF77 AM,Lake Charles Scottish Rite, St John’sCommandry # 1, Habibi Shrine Temple and isalso a Life Endowment member of theNational Rifle Association, National ParksConservation Association and the AmateurTrapshooting Association.

Queen Gayle is a graduate of Lake CharlesHigh School and attended University ofLouisiana, Lafayette. She does charity work for

the Junior League and is past president of thePlanters League Garden Club and the ArtAssociates of Lake Charles. Her Highness is amember of Circus Fans of America, Society forCreative Anachronism, the Krewe of Mystiqueand Mardi Gras of SWLA.

The King and Queen have been membersof Krewe Déjà Vu du Monde for three years.They live in Lake Charles with their dog GracieLou. Together they have three children and ahost of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Following their presentation, some of ourfavorite fairy tales came down memory lane—“twisted” a bit by us adults!

Next up was Captain Phil de Albuquerque,costumed as a very unique “Pinocchio.” Hemasterfully entertained with his comical ver-sion of what happens when lies are told. TheCaptain received a standing ovation for hisclever performance. It seems there was some

2010 King and Queen of Twisted Fairy TalesGeorge (Tip) Cline and Gayle Cline


question about Snow White’s purity whenLieutenant Tim Woods appeared as the eighthdwarf. Tim promenaded the room to prove apoint.

The first Duke and Duchess to be intro-duced were Duke Chase Wilson as The MadHatter and Duchess Ashley Wilson as Alice inWonderland. Ashley wore a ruffled blue taffetadress trimmed with blue ostrich feathers withfull petticoats and a white attached apron, and acollar of blue ostrich feathers. Chase was a trueMad Hatter with his tall hat and long suit coatwith exaggerated lapels and a collar of brownostrich feathers. He chased Alice, who wasthrowing playing cards around the ballroom,and eventually caught her.

Originally from Oklahoma, Duke Chase isemployed by ConocoPhillips in Houston. Hehas an MBA from the University of Tulsa and adegree in finance and accounting from

Oklahoma State. Duchess Ashley was raised inKansas and is a first-grade teacher in Katy, TX.She received her BS degree from OklahomaState University. Shortly after graduation, theWilsons were married and moved to LakeCharles—only to be transferred to Houston lastsummer. The couple has remained good friendswith a group of people in Lake Charles whothey refer to as their “Kingdom of Friends.”They have two dogs, Zoe and Bailey, and joinedthe Krewe last year.

Next to be introduced was Duke EdChavanne as The Big Bad Wolf and DuchessMichelle Chavanne as Little Red RidingHood. Little Red was appropriately costumedin red and gold sequins and satins, with a redostrich feather hood. The Big Bad Wolf wasferocious, right down to his fake claws.

The Duchess appeared with her red basket ofgoodies to share (looked a lot like Jell-O shots,but of course that couldn’t be!) and then TheBig Bad Wolf came along—with questionable

intentions!Duchess Michelle is a graduate of Central

Ohio Technical College and is a freight bro-ker. She loves to cook and entertain and is

always involved in various craftprojects. Duke Ed is the generalmanager of Petco in LakeCharles. He received his BSdegree from Louisiana

Technical College in Ruston.Ed moved back to LakeCharles after living out ofstate for 20 years, bringinghis bride-to-be with him. Hishobbies are boating, working

in the yard and watchingsports.

Michelle and Ed wererecently married in theCayman Islands. They are

members of the Calcasieu BoatClub and The Lake Charles

Buccaneers and have been mem-

bers of Krewe Déjà Vu du Monde for one year.They have three dogs—Rex, Macy and Regan—that think they are humans.

The final Court couple was Duke PrinceCharming, Tommy St. Romain. DuchessCinderella, Mary St. Romain. The Princeworked his charm well—Cinderella found truelove, but when she fled at midnight, it wasn’ther slipper that she left behind! DuchessMary’s purple brocade gown was trimmed ingold and her collar included purple and goldostrich feathers. Duke Tommy was costumedin matching fabric and colors, and they worematching crowns.

Duchess Mary is employed by BijouxJewelers and is vice president of TurfSpecialties, Inc. She enjoys cooking and shop-ping. Duke Tommy received his BS degreefrom McNeese State University and is presidentof Turf Specialties, Inc. He enjoys hunting andfishing. Tommy and Mary have been marriedfor 34 years. Their children are Thomas St.Romain, Jr., and Kate and Russell Alexanderand grandson, Eli Alexander. They areEucharistic ministers at ImmaculateConception Cathedral and have been Krewemembers for one year.

After the final Royal Promenade, the party-ing began, with music provided by “The Issue”of Baton Rouge. Costumes were created byJohn Chavanne and the late Joe Broussard.

Dr. Tom Price wrote the script and RussGrantham designed the program montage.Photography was by Victor Monsour.

Captain Phil de Albuquerque as Pinocchio

Duke and Duchess Chase and Ashley Wilson as The Mad Hatter

and Alice in Wonderland

Duke and Duchess Ed and MichelleChavanne as The Big Bad Wolf

and Little Red Riding Hood

Duke and Duchess Tommy and MarySt. Romain as Prince Charming and Cinderella


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Fax: 337.478.3944E-mail: [email protected]

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The Krewe de la Famille celebrated its 31stMardi Gras Ball in the Coliseum of the LakeCharles Civic Center on Feb. 6, 2010. The themefor this year’s event was “The Splendor ofVersailles.” Narrator Dale Mann took the guestson a journey through the magnificence of 18thcentury France.

The presentation began with the sounding ofthe Captain’s Whistle and the spotting of theKrewe Crest. Then, the 2009 Royal Court madetheir last promenade. Their Royal Majesties

King Famille XXX, Dr. Lee Joseph Monlezunand Queen Famille XXX, Mrs. Anne PragueGillett Monlezun were followed by their 2009Dukes and Duchesses: Birdie and Gary Harter,Janet and Neill Osborne, Maggie and BillCromwell and Romona and Chris Bergeron.

Next came the Krewe’s president and officers:Dr. Douglas Hamer, President; Adele SievertHamer; Charles and Karen Kelly Henderson;Col. James Manning, Jr. and Diann TheriotManning; Wes and Lynn McFadden; Johnny

and Brigitte Aumiller Johnson; and Lee J. andAnne Monlezun, Captains Emeritus.

Sarah Manning was presented as La Famille’sdebutante. She is the granddaughter of boardmembers Col. James Manning and DiannTheriot Manning and was escorted by hergrandfather.

The U.S. Naval Sea Cadets, Cajun Division,posted the colors, and the national anthem wassung by Lake Charles’ very own Eleisha Eagle.

The Krewe de la Famille began its journey

His Majesty, King Famille XXXI Philip Lawrence de Albuquerque and HerRoyal Highness, Queen Famille XXXI Mrs. Lauren Abate de Albuquerque

Photos by www.monsoursphotography.com


through the magnificent Palace. Co-Captains Scot Hebert and his wife,Belinda “Bea” Collins Hebert rep-resented the Palace of Versailles andthe French Crown Jewels. CaptainScot is a native of Lake Charles. Hegraduated from McNeese StateCollege and is the owner of FocalPoint Media and Marketing.

Captain Bea was born in LakeCharles and has been employed byPPG for 32 years. Scot and Bea havea daughter, Erin, who lives in NewOrleans and will be married in thespring. They have been members ofKrewe de la Famille for over 20years, and Co-captains for five years.

Next, the crowd was entertained

by a skit from Krewe membersKathy Adrian, Romona Bergeron,Cindy Eagle, Natalie Hayes,Brigitte Johnson, MonicaMaerhofer, Maria O’Dowd,Maureen Poe, and Emma Vincent,who invited everyone to “be theirguests” at the Royal Palace.

The first Court couple represent-ed the beautiful gardens andsparkling fountains of Versailles.The Duke and Duchess of theGrand Gardens and Fountains ofVersailles were Wes and LynnMcFadden. Duke Wes grew up inLeBleu Settlement, graduated from

Iowa High School and attendedMcNeese State University. Wes is amember of the Chamber ofCommerce and is on the board ofdirectors for the Louisiana Marineand Motorcycle Trade Association.One of his favorite pastimes is cook-ing. Duchess Lynn grew up inHouston, where she attended Cy-Fair High school and HoustonCommunity College. She movedfrom Houston to Hathaway, La. in1980, where she lived until she mar-ried Wes. She is an avid gardener

Wes and Lyn have been married15 action-packed years with never adull moment. They have three ter-rific children and two lovely daugh-ters-in-law: Mike and Pattie Nail,Chris and Chrissy Nail and KandiceMcFadden, and two beautifulgrandchildren, court attendantsMarley and Gavin.

The Duke andDuchess own Cycles &More, the localKawasaki, Polaris, andSuzuki dealership.They carry ATVs,motorcycles and utilityvehicles. Not only dothey both work at thedealership, but theyalso enjoy ridingmotorcycles, golfing,fishing and travelingwith friends and family.They are members ofSt. Michael & All

The Duke and Duchess of the Grand Gardens and Fountains of Versailles, Wes and Lynn McFadden

Co-Captains Scot Hebert and his wife, Belinda “Bea” Collins Hebert

represented the Palace of Versailles and the French Crown Jewels


Angels Church and are on the boardof directors for Krewe de la Famille.

The Red Hat Tappers were upnext. Judy Fanguy, Birdie Harter,Janet Osborn, Brent McGenity,Margaret Cromwell, PhyllisScarbourgh and Janell Brahmshowed the crowd that everythingold is new again.

The second Court Couple repre-sented the opulent Hall of Mirrorsand Chandeliers of the Palace. TheDuke and Duchess of the Hall ofMirrors and Chandeliers wereChuck and Karen Henderson.Duke Chuck is originally fromShreveport and has resided in Welshsince 1967. He was a member ofSigma Chi at LSU, and graduatedwith a degree in business in 1976.Chuck owns Henderson Implement& Marine, a family-owned businessfor over 40 years with three loca-tions in SWLA. In 2009, The Timesof Southwest Louisiana featuredHenderson Implement & Marine asone of the Top 10 privately heldbusiness in Calcasieu Parish. Chuckwas awarded the 2009 OutstandingBusiness Person of the Year at theAnnual Awards Banquet of the JeffDavis Alliance.

Originally from Nashville,Duchess Karen attended LouisianaState University where she was amember of Delta Zeta Sorority. Shemarried her college sweetheart,Chuck Henderson, in 1976, and

moved to Welsh. Their children areboth graduates of LSU. DaughterKelly lives in Lake Charles with herhusband Lance and son Harrison;and their son Tyler resides in BatonRouge with his lovely wife Kelly.Chuck and Karen, their two childrenand their son-in-law all work at thefamily business. Chuck and Karen are on the boardof directors of Krewe de La Familleand attend Our Lady of SevenDolors Catholic Church in Welsh.They belong to the Lake CharlesTriathlon and Jolly Rogers CyclingClubs, and have participated incountless triathlons, road races, andcycling tours. They have inspiredtheir children, and the whole familycompeted in the Houston ChevronMarathon and the 2009 Tri RiversTriathlon in Shreveport. Chuck isalso an Ironman Florida Finisher.

No La Famille Ball is completewithout entertainment from the“men” of the krewe. La Famille’sMan-Man Can-Can featured ChrisBergeron, Larry Eagle, Al Ellender,Ricky Guidry, Mike Hayes, JimKleckley, Bill Maxcy, BruceMaerhofer, Tim O’Dowd, KirkPellerin, Gene Poe and CurtisVincent.

Finally, the moment everyonewas waiting for: The arrival of HisRoyal Majesty, King Famille XXXIPhilip Lawrence de Albuquerqueand Her Royal Highness, Queen

Famille XXXI Mrs. Lauren Abatede Albuquerque.

The King was attended by hisRoyal Pages, Masters Gavin TateHarper and Tyler Hoover. TheQueen was attended by her RoyalPrincesses Marley Sommers Nailand Hallie Marie Kleckley.

King Philip was born and raisedin Mount Clemens, Michigan. Aftergraduating from Michigan StateUniversity with a degree in engi-neering, he ran away and joinedRingling Brothers Barnum andBailey Circus, where he performedas a clown. Queen Lauren was bornand raised in Boston, where shegraduated Magna Cum Laude fromEmmanuel College with a degree incommunications.

The Royal Couple met on aSouthern Plantations Tour wherePhil was the tour guide and Laurenand her mom passengers. They mar-ried one year later in the WhiteMountains of N.H. They will bemarried 10 years in May 2010. Theymoved to Lake Charles, after findingit on the internet, fromMassachusetts six years ago, andowned and operated the EddyHouse Bed and Breakfast. They arepublishers of The Jambalaya News,the fastest growing publication inSWLA, the Mardi Gras of SWLASouvenir Program, and Savvy andSage magazine. They also ownAcadian Closets and have a full-time

contract at Ft. Polk.King Phil is president of the

board of directors of the Children’sMuseum and is on the board of BigBrothers Big Sisters and is thePublicity Chairman of the CalcasieuBoat Club. He is also the Captain ofKrewe Déjà Vu du Monde.

In 2008, he was a recipient of aPartner In Tourism Award from theSouthwest Louisiana Conventionand Visitors Bureau for his role asGumbeaux Gator, and was namedVolunteer of the Year by theChildren’s Museum in 2007.

Queen Lauren is on the board ofdirectors of Krewe Déjà Vu DuMonde and is the managing editorof The Jambalaya News. Lauren andPhil are also members of TheBuccaneers of Lake Charles and theCalcasieu Boat Club. They have aScottish Terrier, Rhiannon, and feedand care for almost 40 cats, who arethe little loves of their lives. They arealso involved in raising funds forvarious Lake Area animal shelters aswell as many other non-profits inthe Lake Area.

After Their Majesties were hon-ored with Royal Entertainment bythe Glenda Moss Academy ofDance, they led the “We are Family”Grand March and the Ball began!

Duke and Duchess of the Hall of Mirrors and Chandeliers

Chuck and Karen Henderson.


Mrs.Genevieve “Bea”Alice Pintado Chavanneturned 100 on Fat Tuesday, Feb. 16,2010. She celebrated this momentous event by actingas Grand Marshal of the Red Hat Parade in LakeCharles.

She is the grandmother of local costume designerJohn Chavanne, who is known for making MardiGras krewe royalty look fabulous throughout the cel-ebrations.

Chavanne was born in Lake Charles to Edwin andIda LeBlanc Pintado on Feb. 16, 1910. She’s theyoungest of three daughters, and credits her sisterswith giving her the nickname of “Bea.” She said hersisters would walk up to her cradle and say “Look atthe bea bea,” and it just stuck with her throughouther life.

She grew up on Iris Street and remembers a verydifferent Lake Charles. She was two months oldwhen a fire devastated the city; her father worked onthe streetcars and witnessed the fire, which destroyedmore than 109 buildings. Chavanne said she doesn’tremember the fire, but remembers her kinfolk talkingabout it years later.

She and her late husband, John T. Chavanne, weremarried for 57 years. She has one son, Raymond, andfive grandchildren, John, Will, Doug, Robbie, andCatherine. She has eight great-grandchildren,

Brandon, Alex, Austin,Allison, Adam, Aaron,Anna, and Christopher.She is also expecting

her first great-great grandsonin May.

At 100, she said she’s enjoying her life andalso her independence. Chavanne still drives andenjoys playing card games, especially Skip-Bo withher daughter-in-law, Billie Mary. She also enjoysscratching her lottery tickets and cooking.

Chavanne credits her long life to happiness andthe Little Debbie Donut Stick she has every morning.“I have such a great family. They keep me happy andare always around to make me laugh. I’m not sure ifnot smoking or eating right has helped me, but I lovemy Little Debbie Donut Sticks.”

Chavanne has been living in her house for over 70years, and just got rid of her rotary dial phone. Shestill likes to keep in contact with friends and familythe “old-fashioned” way with a good handwritten let-ter sent in the mail.

“I don’t like living by myself, but I know I don’twant to live with anyone else,” Chavanne joked whenasked if she’s enjoying her single life. She has been amember of Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parishher entire life, and is currently serving as the presi-dent of the Calcasieu Council on Aging.

She said she enjoys a highball every Sunday andthinks kids spend too much time on computers.“They just sit in front of that screen all day. I don’treally understand it.”

She’s been to every state but Alaska and braggedabout her first ride on a Ferris wheel at the age of 95.Billie laughed about the time Bea jumped on thetrampoline with the great-grand kids, saying that shemust have been going through a dare-devil phaseafter her Ferris wheel ride.

Chavanne’s grandson John said he sees his grand-mother batting her eyes at the grocery store clerkevery once in a while. “She knows how to have fun.She’s just great and I’m very proud to know she’s mygrandmother,” he said.

Chavanne’s first Mardi Gras Ball was with Johnduring his tenure with the Krewe of Illusions, andshe’s been going ever since. She said she doesn’tremember Mardi Gras in Lake Charles until the 70s.“I wasn’t very involved until then, but I enjoy everyminute of it.”

She said she was honored to be chosen as theGrand Marshal of the Red Hat Parade, and enjoys thelimelight. Mrs. Bea is also the 2010 Queen of theKrewe of the Golden Age, which is the Council onAging’s Mardi Gras krewe.

Mardi Gras SWLA Parade Chairman RebeccaMoss said she was a natural choice for ParadeMarshal because of her birthday. “She’s just such asweet person, we couldn’t have asked for anythingbetter,” Moss said.

Chavanne wants to thank everyone for giving hersuch a happy birthday, and wishes everyone a HappyMardi Gras. “I don’t know why I’ve lived this long,but I’m glad I did,” she said.

Sponsored By

The Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors' Bureau conducts programs each Mardi Gras to draw visitors from otherregions and states. The annual Red Hat Program brings in ladies from Texas Red Hat Society Chapters to ride in the Red Hat Parade

on Mardi Gras day, view the Krewe of Krewes' Parade and tour the Mardi Gras Museum. The bureau invites everyone in the communityto come out and watch the Red Hat Parade at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 16.

By Sarah Puckett


Krewe du Grande Bois held their30th annual Mardi Gras ball onFriday, Feb. 12, 2010, with a celebra-tion of “Thirty Years of Dancing tothe Music.”

Festivities opened with a tributeto the past year’s king and queen,Kenneth and Judy Boudreaux, fol-lowed by a parade of all the pastyears’ royalty. A special tribute wasmade to the founders, Pat and herhusband, the late Berk Fontenot.

Master of Ceremony, PerryComeaux, welcomed the large crowdand took them on an entertainingparade of music and dances that thekrewe has celebrated to for the last 30years.

The 2010 Captains of Rhythmand Blues, John and Jodi Fontenot,opened the show dancing to familiarsongs of the Blues Brothers.

John wore a black tuxedo suit,embellished with sequins and stonesof silver, white and black. His acces-sories, the popular skinny black tie,fedora, and black Rayban sunglasses,were decorated to match his tux.Captain Jodi wore a black fitted jack-et, adorned in matching sequins andcrystal rhinestones, a liquid silvertop, and black palazzo pants trimmedwith matching marabou feather cuffs.She, also, wore the signature BluesBrothers accessories trimmed in“bling.” Their matching mantles weredesigned as piano keyboards,adorned with black and white ostrichand pheasant feathers and silversequins and rhinestones.

John, a very active member of ourcommunity, is a past president of theGreater Lake Charles Rotary Club, amember of the CEO Club of LakeCharles, President of the LakeCharles Women’s Shelter, on theBetter Business Bureau Board, andsits on the Sowela Foundation Board.John and Jodi are members of the St.Martin de Porres Catholic Church.

They currently have a res-idence in Moss Bluff, as well,a lake house on Prien Lake.They have seven children andtwo grandchildren. Together,they own and operate GulfCoast Carpet and DecoratingCenter in Lake Charles.

The first couple, presentedin “Tom Cruise” fashion, wasDuke and Duchess of Rockn’ Roll, Dudley and BeckyPitre.

Becky wore a beautifulblue satin empire-waist gown,with sweetheart neckline andcrossed back straps. The dresswas embellished with silverbeads, pearls, multi-coloredsequins, and trimmed withfeather boas at the hemline.Her open-fan styled collarwas blue satin and silver bro-cade, trimmed in matchingcrystals and stones with a gor-geous array of 30+ “strutting”peacock feathers. DukeDudley was decked out in aroyal blue tuxedo, trimmed inmulti-colored sequins, match-ing appliqués, and acces-sorized with a peacock-feath-ered fedora, blue sateen shoes,and a rockin’ guitar.

Dudley and Becky are co-owners of Lake Area CounterTop Supply in Moss Bluff andhave three grown daughtersand seven grandchildren.Dudley and Becky are affiliat-ed with the Coast GuardAuxiliary are choir members of St.John Bosco Catholic Church inWestlake, where Dudley providesguitar music.

Duke and Duchess of Latin Beat,Frank and Peggy Webb, were pre-sented next by Jay and Maria Cotto,local professional dance instructors.

Frank and Peggy made theirgrand entrance wearing emeraldgreen attire. Duchess Peggy’s sequin-covered dress was trimmed withornately decorated leaves capping heroff-the-shoulder sleeves. Emeraldplumes finished off her hem. She

wore a Las Vegas-style headpiece ofmatching multi-colored sequins,rhinestones, and beads and toppedwith showering boas. Frank’s black-tailed tuxedo, embellished withgreen-sequined flames, matching vestand gaucho hat, completed hisensemble.

Duke Frank has been employedwith ConocoPhillips for 20 years asthe Facility Manager of the WestlakeProducts Terminal. Peggy is a mar-keting analyst, formerly employed inthe oil and gas industry for over 30years. They have two grown sons anda new granddaughter. They are active

members of St. John Bosco CatholicChurch. Frank is a past Scoutmasterof the Boy Scouts, president of theMost Bluff Civic Club, a member ofthe Greater Lake Charles RotaryClub and current president of theWard One Economic DevelopmentBoard. He is currently the vice presi-dent of Krewe du Grand Bois.

Introduced next was Duke andDuchess of Oldie Goldies, Mike andWanda Duran.

Duke Mike was decked out in afull-length red linen tuxedo, trimmedin gold glitz and multi-colored rhine-stones, appliqués, and brocade trim.

King & Queen of Krewe Du Grande Bois, David and Cookie Phillips


He accessorized with a red velveteenhat, trimmed with a white band andfeathers to accent his red and blackshoes and cane. Duchess Wandaentered in a ’65 Red Mustang, match-ing red dress and collar, riding to themusic of “Mustang Sally.” Her redsatin and chiffon dress was trimmedin gold swirls of beads and bangles,sequins and rhinestones, and daintyfeathers on the shoulders and hips.Her collar was a mass of red brocade,gold trim and fluffy plumes.

Duke Mike is a registered nurse of30 years and is employed with theDepartment of Health and Hospitalsfor the Office of Aging and AdultServices. He is a Retired LieutenantColonel, U.S. Army, and a veteran of

Desert Storm. Wanda isretired after 30 years of work-ing for the Calcasieu ParishSchool Board. She was a diag-nostic reading assistant forMSU, and is currently a proj-ect coordinator for the Officeof Public Health. They areboth active in the TwelfthNight Revelers, the AmericanLegion Post in Westlake, andattend St. Theodore Catholic

Church in Moss Bluff.Finally, last and fast, the Disco

Duke and Duchess, Mike and CathyKurth, appeared before the audiencein true Saturday Night Fever fashion.

Duke Cathy’s costume was per-fect for the 70’s disco era. Her haltertop empire waist gown was made ofswirls of orange, turquoise, and limegreen. Each color was picked up withmatching bangles, stones, beads andrhinestone braid. Her “car wash” hemfloated with boa feathers. Cathy’smantle, trimmed in orange and limeostrich plumes, was made of petal-like designs and picked up all the col-ors of her dress. Duke Mike disco-danced in his white “John Travolta”

suit, typicalopen collarand bell bot-toms. Hisjacket wastrimmed indiscoappliqués,and picked upcolors withsequins, crys-

tals, and gold trim. The Kurths reside in Moss Bluff

where Kathy has run her own studio,for the past 23 years, the Cathy KurthDance Academy. Mike has been aprofessor of economics at McNeeseState University for the last 25 years.They have six children and fourgrandsons.

The grand finale of the eveningwas the presentation of the 2010 Kingof Music and Queen of Dance, Daveand Cookie Phillips, with theirgrand daughters as attendants,Princess Elizabeth of Music andPrincess Rachel of Dance.

Queen Cookie’s gown was madeof gold aurora borealis sequined fab-ric, with beads, handmade tassels,crystal stones, and elaborateappliqués displayed at the bodice anddown the back. Trimmed on the ruf-fled shoulder straps and hem wererhinestones and gold and whitecurled ostrich plumes. King Dave’swhite tuxedo lapels and vest werecovered in matching fabric; pearl,sequin and rhinestone appliqués, andgold braid. His white fur-trimmedtraditional-style crown, covered in

rhinestones and gold accents, com-plemented his and her matching fleurde leis scepters. Their mantles werealso alike with a stately sight of goldand white: braided brocade, largecrystal stones, sequins, pearls, exqui-site appliqués, and curled ostrichplumes and giant boas. They were apicture of old traditional NewOrleans Mardi Gras Royalty.

Dave is a retired U.S. ArmyWarrant Officer and Army Civilian,both with Military Intelligence. Hecurrently serves as a community rela-tions specialist on FEMA’s ReserveCadre. Dave has been active in theCoast Guard Auxiliary for 30 yearsand belongs to the Mayor’s ArmedForces Commission. Cookie is alsoretired from the Army Civil Serviceand stays busy with her business,Cookie’s Cards, selling artwork andnote cards. They have two grownsons and two grand daughters.Cookie and Dave are active membersof Christ the King Catholic Church inLake Charles.

After the pageant, appropriatetoasts, and presentations, everyonepartied to the music of The BayouKatz from Oakdale. John Chavanne,owner of Garden District Glass andlocal costume designer, created thecostumes and mantles. PerryComeaux, the MC, provided thesound, lighting, and special effects forthe pageant. David Martin of VideoCreations and Productions, providedvideography, and Rod Rodriquesphotographed the krewe membersand guests during the evening.

Duke & Duchess of Rock N’ Roll,Becky and Dudley Pitre, left;Captains of Rhythm & Blues,

Jodi and John Fontenot

Disco Duke & Duchess,Cathy and Mike Kurth

Duke & Duchess of Latin Beat,Peggy and Frank Webb

Duke & Duchess of Oldie Goldies,Wanda and Mike Duran


The Krewe of Illusionsheld its 21st annual Mardi GrasExtravaganza, “Illusions of Enchantment,” at 7:30p.m. on Sat., Feb. 13 in the Rosa Hart Theater ofthe Lake Charles Civic Center. Illusions carriedspectators away on a magical journey to visit sev-eral wonders of the world, Illusions-style, keyingin on the aura and underlying mysteries of thesewonders…the enchantment. Guests were invitedto remember when their minds were open andunclouded, when even everyday things seemedmagical, and to once again be free to feel, likechildren do—enchantment!

The show opened with two young girls,Allison and Lindsey Fuller, from our Sister Cityof Sioux City, Iowa, performing a lyrical dancewith dolls who come to life and start on a magical

journey. As the journey began, a beautiful back-drop of a royal carriage opened to reveal KingXX Kurt Blackmon, “The Enchanter,” and QueenXX Millicent “Katie” Jones, “The Enchantress.”

The King and Queen wore exquisite costumesof white, black and red brocade covered with redsequins and jeweled appliqués. Thousands ofblack, red, and aurora borealis Swarovski crystalsadorned their costumes. The trains were of sheerblack and silver overlay on top of soft red satinwith ermine fur trim. Their back pieces were inthe royal colors complete with white ostrich andred peacock feathers, and towered 15 feet.

The Queen held a shimmering lighted glassscepter topped with white and black coque andred pheasant feathers with silver and pearl accents.The King held a matching 6-foot lighted staff.

King XX Kurt Blackmon, of South Carolina,and Queen XX Millicent Jones of Iowa, La., wereaccompanied by their royal pages Darrell JavonThornton, II, grandson of the Queen, andDetorian Faulk, great-nephew of the Queen.Darrell Javon Thornton, Sr., son of the Queen,was the Royal Coachman.

The Major Costumes of the Royal Court wereKippy Carpenter Grecier as “Ornament of thePalace,” representing the Taj Mahal; Ramona

Primeaux as “Madame Jubilee” a showgirl repre-senting Las Vegas nightlife; Melanie Kershaw as“Fanta Sea,” a mermaid representing the GreatBarrier Reef and underwater fantasy; and CoryAllen as “The Shape Shifter,” representing thespirits of the Grand Canyon. Ball Captain KevinHodge concluded the show as “Caesar the Great,”representing the Royal Ruins of Italy.

At the show’s conclusion, the krewe and theirguest moved to the exhibition hall were everyonedanced to the rocking sounds of Laurel and theElectric Circus.

Pictured Below: King XX Kurt Blackmonand Queen XX Millicent “Katie” Jones;

Kippy Grecier, Left; Ramona Primeaux,Melanie Kershaw, Cory Allen,

Adam Manuel, and Kevin Hodge


The 27th annual Krewe du Lac Mardi GrasBall was held on Sat., Feb. 6, 2010, in theBuccaneer room of the Lake Charles Civic Center.Master of Ceremonies was Buzz Clark.Partygoers at the Lake Area’s original costume-only ball wore interesting, timely and inventivecreations.

The evening began with the formal introduc-tion of Captain Colvin LeDoux. He was KingCharles du Lac XI and served on the krewe’sboard of directors for a number of years. He alsoserved as Lieutenant under co-founding CaptainEmeritus John Thibodeaux. Colvin is employedby Clean Harbors Environmental Services.

Buzz Clark recognized the current Board ofDirectors: Prissy Bult, Missy Bushnell, DeniseDenison, Cyndi Lejeune, Donnie Martin,Wayne McVicker, Sam Reeves, Denise Savant,and Bill Willis. He also recognized member DonMenard, who serves as the Web master forwww.krewedulac.com, and Brenda Wilkinson,Debbie Carlin, and Susan Blevins, who supple-ment the Royal Court preparation and presenta-tion committee.

Making their last grand promenade was KingCharles du Lac XXVI, Gerald Benoit and QueenKatherine XXVI, Jean Terracina.

The moment finally arrived for the grand pres-entation of the 27th Krewe du Lac Court ofRoyalty, starting with Duke Andrew XXVII,Samuel Joseph Ihli and Duchess AngelicaXXVII, Joan McDonald Bloomfield.

Duke Andrew, Sam Ihli is married to AnnFontenot. They have three children, Amanda, 25,Eric, 23, and Jakob, 17. Born in Sulphur, he is agraduate of Sulphur H.S. and McNeese StateUniversity with a B.S. degree in ChemicalEngineering. He is a regional sales manager forChemtech Chemical Services.

The Duke coached soccer at LaGrange HighSchool, along with many youth teams in theImperial Calcasieu Soccer Association. In 2000,he took the U-16 girls team, the Louisiana Splash,to play matches in Denmark and Sweden and wasnamed Louisiana Girls Coach of the Year. He is anactive member of the American Institute ofChemical Engineers, the Louisiana ChemicalIndustry Alliance, the Pelican Coast Parrot HeadClub, the Lake Charles Yacht Club, and the LFRC,a local men’s social organization. The Ihils attendSt. Theodore’s Catholic Church in Moss Bluff,where they have lived for the past 11 years.

Duchess Angelica, Joan Bloomfield, wore achianti taffeta strapless dress with horizontal

pleats on the bodice and pleated drop waist with apick-up full-length skirt accented with rhine-stones. She is the daughter of the late Willie Leeand Elizabeth McDonald. She is married toTimothy James Bloomfield and they have adaughter, Shauna, 37, a son-in-law, RomanBertrand, and two grandchildren, Bailey, 11, andPeyton, 7.

The Duchess was born and raised in LakeCharles, and graduated from Lake Charles High.She met her husband while working as headbookkeeper for American Bank of Commerce.Joan loves being with her grandchildren, and alsovolunteers at Abraham’s Tent. She enjoys watchingvolleyball, holiday decorating and hosting theParrothead Halloween Party. She is on the boardof the Pelican Coast Parrothead Club and is amember of Krewe of Athena. The Bloomfield’sare members of First Presbyterian Church.

Entering the ballroom next for the eagercrowd’s reception were Duke Edward XXVII,John Burvick Foret, Jr. and his DuchessCaroline XXVII, Kim Diane Caton.

Duke Edward, John Foret, is married to LisaSchexnider and they have four children, EthanBouillion, 13, Emma Bouillion 10, Trinity Foret,6, and John Noah Foret, 5. John was born in

King Charles du Lac XXVII, James Barnatt,Queen Katherine XXVII, Trisha Ortego Garber


Gainesville, Florida and was adoptedby Burvick and Betty Foret ofLafayette. After high school, hereceived a four-year football scholar-ship to Livingston University inAlabama. After several years of col-lege football, John moved to LakeCharles and graduated with a B.S. inHealth Promotion from McNeese in1995.

The Duke has been employed byGiGi’s Fitness Center/CHRISTUS St.Patrick Hospital for the last 15 years.He loves going to LSU footballgames, camping, and spending timewith his family and his best friend,his brother, Eddie Foret. The Foretsattend Christ the King CatholicChurch.

Duchess Caroline, Kim Caton,wore a strapless sapphire taffetadress featuring a wrapped empirewaistline embellished with beadsand crystals.

Kim is the daughter of Ray andCindy Miller of Lake Charles. Kimand her husband Bonner have oneson, Bonner A. Caton, 11, and livein Lake Charles. The Catons attendSt. Andrew Presbyterian Church.Kim graduated from Barbe HighSchool and attended McNeese StateUniversity. She worked in the dentalfield for 15 years and now enjoysbeing a domestic goddess.

Kim enjoys photography, shop-

ping, deer hunting, decorating, andmore shopping! She enjoys spend-ing time with her friends and herwonderful brothers, Eric and Jason,and her niece, Emily. Kim enjoysbeing with her family as often as shecan and feels blessed to live inSouthwest Louisiana. She is thrilledto be a part of Krewe du Lac and ishonored to be chosen as DuchessCaroline XXVII. She would especial-ly like to thank her husband Bonner,and her parents, Ray and CindyMiller, for their love and support.

Finally, the emcee proudly pre-sented His Majesty, King Charles duLac XXVII, James Barnatt, some-times known as Jim, Gumby, andJimmy Henry.

King Charles is the son of Henryand Ida Barnatt of Whitinsville, Ma.He and his wife Theresa have twodaughters, Claire, 28, and son-in-law, Robby Hess and Colleen, 26,and son-in-law, Nick Kohrs. Bothdaughters are Krewe du Lac mem-bers. Jim has one grandson, Brady.The King and his family live in theHistoric Margaret Place section ofLake Charles.

Jim grew up in a quintessentialNew England town about 40 milesfrom Boston. He attendedRensselaer Polytechnic Institute inupstate New York and received a B.S.in Chemical Engineering in 1976.

After graduating, he moved to LakeCharles to work for Olin Chemicals.Jim married Theresa in 1979 andthey moved to Connecticut whereJim received his MBA and Theresaher law degree. Jim has beenemployed with Arch Chemical (for-merly Olin Chemicals) for 33 yearsand is presently the plant manager.

The King is a diehard Red Soxand Patriots fan. He enjoys golf andwoodworking, which includes cur-rently restoring his 98-year-oldhome. He serves on the board ofCalcasieu Historical PreservationSociety and was a team captain onthe Shiver Me Timbers MillenniumPark playground building commit-tee.

He currently serves on theCalcasieu Community AdvisoryPanel and is a member of the LeftField Rotary Club (LFRC), whichhosts the infamous “White Party”every year. The Barnatts attendImmaculate Conception Cathedral.Jim is a founding member of Krewedu Lac.

Queen Katherine XXVII, TrishaOrtego Garber, entered in a whitestrapless dress with a corset backand ornate embellished bodice ofbeads and crystals featuring a dropwaist and a pick up full length skirt.

Queen Trisha has been marriedto Ben Garber for 18 years. A life-

long resident of SouthwestLouisiana, she graduated fromSulphur High School and received aB.S. from McNeese State University,where she was employed for 10years. She is currently the co-ownerand the principle consultant ofAutomation Consultants where shehas worked for over 10 years.

Dedicated to the community, theQueen is a member of the JuniorLeague of Lake Charles where sheserves as the Nominating Chairman.She is also a member of the LakeCharles Sail and Power Squadronwhere she serves as the MembershipChairman and will be ExecutiveOfficer on the 2010 Bridge.

Trish is a member of Our Lady ofGood Council and also belongs toTherisians International where sheserves as treasurer of their localchapter. She is also the First Mate ofher and Ben’s boat “TheContraband” and they spend manyhours aboard, entertaining and trav-eling with friends. They have beenmembers of Krewe du Lac since2003.

As with tradition, the new Kingand Queen exchanged toasts withtheir Royal Court and subjects. TheCaptain then blew his whistle to letthe party begin as the revelersdanced the night away to the soundsof “No Idea” from New Orleans.

Duke Andrew XXVII, Samuel Joseph Ihli and Duchess Angelica XXVII, Joan McDonald Bloomfield.

Duke Edward XXVII, John Burvick Foret, Jr. andDuchess Caroline XXVII, Kim Diane Caton.

The Krewe of Lunatiques enjoyed a night of“Living the Life of Luxury” on Sat., Feb. 6, 2010in the Contraband Room of the Lake CharlesCivic Center.

The festivities were kicked off by CaptainsMark and Sally Bertrand. They live in Sulphurand have been married for 19 years. Mark is anavid LSU fan and is a laboratory shift foreman atCitgo, where he’s been employed for 33 years. Anative of England, Sally has lived most of her lifein Lake Charles. She has been employed by Citgofor 32 years and is a financial analyst. They havefour children: Jason Bertrand, Sarah Davis,Thomas Landers and Emily Landers, and fivegrandchildren: Tristann, Tayllor, Collin, Kaitlynand Gavin. They’ve belonged to the Krewe for fiveyears.

The Duke and Duchess of 24 Karats wereHeather Lynn Bourgeois and MichaelDuff. Duke Michael a graduate of Falcon H.S inColorado Springs CO. He graduated fromMcNeese in 2002 with a BA in marketing andmanagement, in 2007 with a MA in teaching, andwill graduate with a MA in educational leadershipthis May. He served as student body president in2004-05. He is currently employed at F.K. WhiteMiddle School. Michael recently became engagedand will be married in December.

Duchess Heather is a graduate of McNeeseState University and is employed by the CalcasieuParish School Board. Heather is Lunatiques’ 2010

Ball chairperson. Heather’s world centers on herbeautiful daughter Macie Lynn, who accompaniedher that night as Princess Macie of 24Karats. Macie, 5, is in kindergarten at St. JohnElementary. She loves to dance and attends CenterStage Dance Company. Macie definitely loves“Living the Life of Luxury.”

James “Toddy” Todd and Sherry SternburgTodd were the Duke and Duchess of SouthernAristocrats. Duke Toddy is owner/operator ofRockin’ ‘T’ Trucking and also a local farmer. He isa member of the Farm Bureau and the Cattleman’sAssociation and serves as an executive boardmember for the krewe. Toddy is also one of theLunatiques cooks for the Gumbo Cook-off.

Duchess Sherry is currently attendingMcNeese State University. She is also one of the“LunaChiques” representing the krewe in the wildgame category of the Gumbo Cook-off this year.

Sherry and Toddy have been married for 13years and have a son, Logan James, 7. They enjoytraveling and spending time with Logan. TheTodds are members of Immaculate ConceptionCatholic Church and reside in Holmwood.

Darrell Glynn Materne and Leslie HarringtonMaterne were the Duke and Duchess of BonVoyage. Duke Darrell is employed by DeanFoods, Inc., and is the owner of Budget Lawncareand Maintenance. He enjoys football, photographyand reading, and always has a crazy story to tell ofsomething Leslie or the kids have done.

Duchess Leslie is a self-employed accountantspecializing in estates and is also co-owner ofEstate Notes & Coins. She serves as an executiveboard member for the krewe and also writes thekrewe newsletter. She is also one of the“LunaChiques” participating in the wild game cat-egory of the Gumbo Cook-off this year.

Darrell and Leslie have been married for 19years and enjoy traveling with their two boys,Bradley, 13, and Blake, 5. They are members ofOur Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church andreside in Lake Charles

Charlie and Tami Blocker were King RaphaelXXII and Queen Evelyn XXI. King Charlie hasworked at Citgo for 31 years. He joined the krewein 1998 and has been the float captain for lastthree years. He is the father of Lane (married toErin), Caleb and TeCi Blocker. He is a member ofthe Buccaneers of Lake Charles.

Queen Tami is a high school teacher atCalcalsieu Parish Alternative School. She joinedthe Krewe in 2003 and has been the secretary forpast two years. She has a son, Garret Vincent(married to Britney) and a granddaughter, AdaleeQuinn Vincent, with a second grandchild due inApril. Daughter Stormi Vincent Sonnier is mar-ried to Clayton Sonnier. The Blockers are resi-dents of Moss Bluff.

Duke & Duchess of Southern Aristocrats, James "Toddy"

& Sherry Todd

Duke & Duchess of 24KT,Heather Bourgeois & Mike Duffwith Princess Macie Bourgeouis

Duke & Duchess of Bon Voyage,Darrell & Leslie Materne

Captains, Sally & MarkBertrand

King Raphael XXII and Queen Evelyn XXI,Charlie and Tami Blocker

PAGE 46 FEBRUARY 15, 2010 2010 Special Edition


1570 Maplewood Dr., Sulphur, LA 70663(337) 528-6843


The Krewe de la Maison de Calcasieu celebrated its 11th

annual ball with “A Night on the Sea,” as the krewe took a cruise around

the world. The festivities were held at the VFW Hall on Country Club

Road on Feb. 6, 2010.

King Charles X and Queen Catherine X,Dr. Wayne and Sissie McClure


President Debbie Brade welcomed everyoneby introducing emcee John Bridges. After thepresentation of the national colors, past presidentSarah Whitlock and her spouse John Whitlockcame out with the krewe crest. Founding mem-bers Dean and Hilda Day followed with thekrewe banner.

The current 2009-2010 board of directors wasintroduced before the fond farewell to the 2009royal court of “Return to Camelot” – Karl andJanice Lopez, Chris and Tracy Clark, Troy andAngela Kiser, Captain David Alhgrim, Edwin“Fluffy” Olmsted and Jeanice Olmsted as KingCharles IX and Queen Catherine IX.

Captain of the ball, Deanna Kelley, steered theS.S. Mason through the sea of guests and wel-comed all aboard the party boat. The 2010Captain and her husband Mike Kelley live inSulphur and are the proud parents of three won-derful dogs, Cindal, Paco, and Ariel. Deanna isemployed at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospitaland works as a registered nurse in the intensivecare unit. A member of the krewe since 2003, shewas a Duchess in 2004, and Queen in 2008.

The first port of call on the S.S. Maison wasSpain. The Duke and Duchess of Spain wererepresented by Roger and Lisa Short of Vinton.He wore a black and teal bandolero jacket and shewore a flamenco dress. Both costumes wereadorned with Spanish lace. Roger is a regional

sales manager for Furmanite Plant Services andLisa is a supervisor and city letter carrier for theUnited States Postal Service. They are the parentsof Bobby Ray and Chad Lee and have been mem-bers since 2003.

The second port of call on the S.S. Maison wasAlaska, where the Duchess of Alaska was repre-sented by Rhonda Sullivan who was escorted byRon Williams of Westlake. She was costumed ina light blue dress adorned with snowflakes.Rhonda is employed at the Moss RegionalMedical Center as a registered nurse in the oper-ating and recovery rooms. She is also retiredfrom the U.S. Army Nurse Corps after 24 years ofservice, and is a veteran of Desert Storm and IraqiFreedom. She is the proud parent of Sara, Jim,and Tommy and has two granddaughters. She hasbeen a member since 1999.

The third port of call on the S.S. Maison wasRio de Janeiro, where the Duke and Duchess ofBrazil were represented by Elmer and BarbaraSpence of Lake Charles. They wore bright sambacostumes adorned with parrots. Elmer is a retiredcivil engineer and director of the HighwayDepartment and Barbara is a registered nurse.They have a daughter, Kimberly, and have beenmembers since 2000.

The fourth port of call on the S.S. Maison wasthe Orient, where the Duke and Duchess of theOrient were represented by John and Ellie

Stickney of Moss Bluff. They were costumed inbright satin oriental kimonos. John is a nurseanesthetist and owner of J-Self/Anesthesia on theMove. Ellie is a registered nurse at Lake CharlesMemorial Hospital in the Day Surgery Unit. Johnand Ellie are the parents of Sean and Michelleand have five grandchildren. They have beenmembers since 2003.

The final stop for the S.S. Maison was beautifulnorthern France and the port of Paris, whereKing Charles X and Queen Catherine X wererepresented by Dr. Wayne and Sissie McClure ofLake Charles. They were a vision of whiteadorned with sparkling Eiffel Towers and flowingfeathers. The lights of Paris have never shownbrighter.

Wayne is the owner/optometrist at Texas StateOptical, and Sissie is their accountant.They arethe parents of Molly, Kenna, Kendel and Michaeland have three grandchildren: Graciepoo, Bugand Lilly. They have been members since 2006,and were Duke and Duchess in 2007.

The Captain and Krewe toasted the RoyalCourt after entertainment by the “DancingSailors.” After the presentation, the band,Boomarang, came out and provided fun-filledhours of music and dancing.

Captain Deanna Kelley

Duke and Duchess of Spain,Roger and Lisa Short

Duke and Duchess of Brazil,Elmer and Barbara Spence

Duke and Duchess of the Orient,John and Ellie Stickney

Duchess of Alaska, Rhonda Sullivan

The traditional Cajun Mardi Gras dates farther back thanthe New Orleans Mardi Gras. Hundreds of years ago inFrance, the poor farmers did not have much to eat in thewinter. When all the food was gone, the aristocrats wouldallow them to beg from house to house. As years passed,the begging day turned into a holiday. During this time of

celebration, the farmers would mock the kings,queens, bishops and teachers by dressing

like them, but in rags and tattered cloth-ing. When the French Acadians, orCajuns, settled in Louisiana, more than200 years ago, they brought this old cus-tom with them.

Krewe du le Originales et les Enfants“The Krewe of the Originals and theirKids” was formed in 1998 to preservethese old-time Mardi Gras traditions. J.C.Spell and Abbie Gaspard were the krewefounders. There is no ball or court for thiskrewe, but they have several eventsthroughout the year such as a MardiGras run in the country, krewe fun dayand a family day of food and fun. Theyalso perform at several of the otherkrewe balls in the area as well as localschools

The krewe board includes CaptainBenton Scott, Co-Captain WadeClark, President Steve Corbello, VicePresident Benet Scott and GirlFriday, Rebecca Moss. Someone

dresses up like a chicken every year.This person is known as Queen Cluck,

whose identity is always a closely guard-ed secret.

PAGE 50 FEBRUARY 15, 2010 2010 Special Edition


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King Raymond M. Fondel, Jr. and Queen Juanita Fondel


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Screen Printing and Embroidery Available

Parade Throws, Flags, Caps, All Types of Shirts, Banners, Cups, Shot Glasses,

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2010 King and Queen

King Gaston I, Mike Styron, Sr. and Queen Marie I, Angie Styron.

“A Night in Vegas” was the theme for the 2010Inaugural Ball of Krewe of the Marsh, held Sat.,Feb. 6, 2010 at the Brick House in Lake Charles.The event room was transformed into a casino forthe evening.

Master of Ceremonies Aaron Ladd welcomedball guests and krewe members, then opened theevening’s festivities by introducing the Krewe ofthe Marsh Showgirls: Jodie Cox, Brandi Styron,Mandi Broussard, Amanda Racca, CoraBroussard and Roxanne Burge. The ladies beganthe journey to Vegas -- Cajun style.

The 2010 Captain of the Ball opened thepresentation. Elvis entered the room dancing to“Viva Las Vegas,” wearing his trademark whitejumpsuit.

The one thing you need in Vegas is cold hardcash. The first Duke and Duchess represented theMean Green paper we like to call MONEY: Duke

Mark and Duchess Tammy Spell, who came outdancing to “For the Love of Money.”

Duke Mark and DuchessTammy reside inLake Charles and are charter members of thekrewe. They have been married for 24 years andhave two daughters, Kari and Amber, and agrandson, Lane Allen Spell. Mark is the son ofDan and Caroline Spell and is employed as a com-mercial fisherman. He enjoys playing golf andgoing to L’Auberge du Lac Casino. Tammy is thedaughter of the late Addison and Hazel Fruge. Shehas been employed by the Calcasieu Parish SchoolBoard for 10 years and enjoys hanging out withfamily and friends.

Now that everyone had cash in their hands, theaudience got their pulses racing and hearts pump-ing. Two hearts are always better than one. DukeRichard and Duchess Rachel Rowland, the Dukeand Duchess of Hearts made their entrance.

Duke Richard and Duke Rachel reside inLake Charles. They have been married for 14years and have two daughters, Ryleigh, 9 andReagan, 6. Richard is the son of Emery andDorothy LaPointe and is employed at ERA as anaviation maintenance technician. He enjoys hunt-ing and golf. Rachel is the daughter of RaphaelManuel and is a nurse practitioner. She enjoysspending time with family and friends and exer-cising. She is currently training for the Mardi Grashalf marathon in New Orleans. They have beenkrewe members for three years.

Everyone was hoping to win big. Next upwere the Duke and Duchess of the High Rollers,Duke Chris and Duchess Tabitha Cormie.

Duke Chris and Duchess Tabitha live in LakeCharles and have been married for nine years.They have two sons, Ashton, 10 and Mason, 5.They own Cormie’s Grocery in Lake Charles.


Chris and Tabitha enjoy four-wheel-er riding and spending time withtheir family and friends. Chris isthe son of Mural Cormie andTabitha is the daughter of Tye andMarty Benton. They are chartermembers of the krewe.

Finally, the first King and Queenof the Krewe of the Marsh were pre-sented—King Gaston I, MikeStyron, Sr. and Queen Marie I,Angie Styron.

King Mike’s black tux wastrimmed with black and gold. Hewore a gold crown accented withfleur de lis and Swarovski jewels.The ivory lace collar was accentedwith gold stones and sequins andtrimmed with black

velvet and a purple and gold fleur delis. His 12-foot mantle was made ofgold-toned satin. The marsh charac-ters represented on the mantelincluded a crab, crawfish, shrimpand Mr. Gator.

Queen Angie designed and cre-ated her white gown, which wasembroidered white satin and embel-lished with gold sequins andSwarovski jewels. Her gold crownwas accented with rows of Swarovskijewels, and the ivory lace collar wasaccented with gold stones andsequins and trimmed withivory brocade satin

and a gold fleur de lis. Her mantlewas identical to the King’s, exceptone of her marsh characters wasMrs. Gator.

Mike and Angie live in LakeCharles and have been married for36 years. They are the parents ofMichael and Brandi, and a daughter-in-law Jennifer, along with fivegrandchildren – Jace, Jaselyn, Jace,Bryant and Kaleb. Mike has beenemployed by Louisiana Pigment for19 years as a lead technician andenjoys woodworking, golf andumpiring girls’ softball. Angie hasbeen employed by the CameronParish School Board for 30 years asthe superintendent’s secretary andFEMA bookkeeper. Angie enjoyssewing, gardening and spendingtime with family and friends. Mikeis the son of the late Bob and OpalStyron and Angie is the daughter ofthe late Addison and Hazel Fruge.The Royal Couple are charter mem-bers of the krewe.

Finally, Elvis was revealed to beShelley Paul Broussard, the first

Captain of the Kreweof the Marsh. He livesin Lake Charles andhas been married toAngel Broussard for10 years. They have adaughter Julianne, 8.He is employed withSempra Energy at itsCameron LNG termi-nal, and enjoys homeprojects and spend-ing time with familyand friends. TheCaptain is a chartermember of the kreweand maintains its

Web site and Facebook page.Following the Second Line, the

ball-goers danced the night away tothe music of Southern DJProductions. Canter Photographyprovided the photo gallery.

KREWE OF THE MARSH CHILDREN’S KREWE INAUGURAL BALL

On Jan. 22, 2010, Krewe of theMarsh Children’s Krewe celebratedits first ball at the Managan Centerin Westlake. Music was provided bySouthern DJ Productions, and aphoto gallery was set up by CanterPhotography. Meet the 2010 court:Duke and Duchess - 0- 5 years• Jayden Racca, daughter of Jason

and Amanda Racca• Jagger Fruge, son of Matt and

Dawn FrugeDuke and Duchess – 6- 8 years

• Mackenzie Schornick, daughter of Dmitri and StephanieSchornick

• Jace Roussell, son of Mike and Jennifer Styron and JasonRoussell

Duke and Duchess – 9 -11 years• Madeline Curry, daughter of

Mike and Julie Nevils• Ashton Cormie, son of Chris and

Tabitha CormieKing and Queen – 2- 17 years• Alexis Dickerson, daughter of

Jeremy and Misty Dickerson and Amanda Bryant

• Christian Seaward, son of Darrelland Kristine Seaward

Captain• Bryant Williams, son of BrandiStyron and Brent Williams

Captain, Shelley Paul Broussard as Elvis

Duke and Duchess of Hearts,Richard and Rachel Rowland

Duke and Duchess of theHigh Rollers, Chris and

Tabitha Cormie.

Duke and Duchess of Money,Mark and Tammy Spell


Krewe du Sauvage held its annual ball onSat., Jan. 23, in the Flamingo Bay Ballroom atthe Isle of Capri Casino. It was a black-tie eventwhere guests enjoyed music provided by Bag ofDonuts and Deep South Productions.Photography was provided by Samy Stone. Thetheme for this year’s ball was “Happily EverAfter.” The royal court followed this theme byrepresenting couples from a collection of fairy

tales. All royal court cos-tumes were designed and

constructed by JohnChavanne of LakeCharles.

Duke Pierre VI and Duchess Anne VI wereJared and Allison “Ali” Carnahan of LakeCharles, wearing costumes representing Jasmineand Aladdin. Duke Jared is the son of Cindyand Steve Hamilton of Lake Charles. DuchessAllison is the daughter of Mary Stokes of LakeCharles and John and Grayson Stokes ofHouston. Jared is a linesman for Basden Agency,and his hobbies include playing golf, hunting,and fishing. Allison is an Account Executive forUser-Friendly Phone Book. She enjoys shop-ping, running, fishing, and spending time withfriends.

Duke Charles VI and Duchess Elizabeth VIwere Trey and Amanda Hilliard of LakeCharles, representing Pocahontas and herWarrior. Duke Trey is the son of Tommy andKaye Hilliard of Crowley and Duchess Amandais the daughter of E. Stephen LeLeaux andDonna Richey Ortego, both of Lake Charles.

Trey is a superintendent at Atlantic Scaffolding,and Amanda is a full-time “domestic goddess.”They enjoy riding motorcycles and spendingtime with family and friends. They are prospec-tive members of Gypsy Motorcycle Club andmembers of AMA. Amanda serves on the Boardof Directors for Lake Charles Little LeagueSoftball. They have three children, Kirston,Kassidy, and Kainen.

Duke Louis VI and Duchess Antoinette VIwere Kane and Ginger Marcantel Webb ofLake Charles, representing Belle and The Beast.Duke Kane is the son of R.L. and Linda Webband Duchess Ginger is the daughter of Dwightand Belinda Webb, all of Lake Charles. Kane isAssistant Director of Public Works for CalcasieuParish Police Jury. He enjoys golfing, hunting,and spending time with his girls. Ginger is aPharmaceutical Sales Representativefor Schering-Plough. She enjoys

King Henri VI and Queen Sophie VI,Brandon and Candy Guillory


running, competing in triathlons, reading, andspending time with family. Kane is a member ofthe MSU Alumni Association and the McNeeseMavericks. Ginger is a member of Junior Leagueof Lake Charles and Go Run. They have twochildren, Kana and Molly.

Duke Philipe VI and Duchess Henriette VIwere Joe and Terri Aubey of Lake Charles, rep-resenting Ariel and Sebastian. Joe is the son ofthe late Buddy and Druscilla Aubey, and Terri isthe daughter of Terry and Linda Guillory ofLake Charles. Joe is employed by Wood GroupOffshore Services. Joe’s hobbies include huntingand riding four wheelers. Terri is self-employedand balances her roles as a “nail lady,” photogra-pher, painter, and travel agent. She enjoys paint-ing and being a taxi for her children. The couple

serve on the krewe’s board of directors. Theyhave three sons, Tylor, Turner, and Tatum.

King Henri VI and Queen Sophie VI wereBrandon and Candy Guillory of Lake Charles.They were presented as the fairest of all,Cinderella and her Prince Charming. Brandon isthe son of Geof and Maggie Banta. Candy is thedaughter of Alain and Stephanie Newman andWade and Phyllis Gibson, all of Lake Charles.Brandon is PCO and Assistant Pest Manager forJ&J Exterminating. He is a member of LouisianaPest Control Association, Board of Realtors,Home Builders Association, Chamber ofCommerce, and Rebuilding Together. He enjoysworking out, watching football, welding, andhunting. Candy is a Deputy Clerk for theCalcasieu Parish Clerk of Court’s Office. She is a

notary public and a member of United Way, aswell as a volunteer for Buddy Walk. Her hobbiesinclude painting, shopping, spending time withfriends and family, but most of all, being amother. They have one daughter, Madison.

Krewe du Sauvage was founded in 2003 byAshlee LeLeaux Lemons of Katy, Texas. She hasserved as Captain of Krewe du Sauvage andholds the honor of reigning as Queen Sophie I.

Gena Richard Millslagle of Iowa serves asCaptain. Board members include Joe and TerriAubey, Donovan and Keitha Dupuis, DeannaGuidry, Scott and Stephanie Helms, ElizabethLaughlin and Brian and Lisa Smith.

Aladdin and JasmineDuke Pierre VI and Duchess Anne VI

Jared and Allison “Ali” Carnahan

Pocahontas and her warriorDuke Charles VI and Duchess Elizabeth VI

Trey and Amanda Hilliard

Belle and The BeastDuke Louis VI and Duchess Antoinette VI

Kane and Ginger Marcantel Webb

Ariel and SebastianDuke Philipe VI and Duchess Henriette VI

Joe and Terri Aubey

545A W. Prien Lake Rd.(337) 474-2711

Across From Prien Lake MallMon. - Sat. 9am-9pm

Sun. 10am-7pm

mardi gras 2010

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