2013 Mardi Gras

SPECIAL EDITION / FEBRUARY 11, 2013

FEBRUARY 11, 2013 PAGE 32013 Special Edition

February 11, 2013 • 2013 Special Edition

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Produced ByMARDI GRAS KREWES

6 Des Amis9 Athena

10 Bons Amis14 Bon Coeur18 Extraordinaire20 Chaos22 Charlie Sioux24 Classique25 Cosmos26 Déjà Vu du Monde28 Carnivale29 L’Ecore30 La Famille32 Good Times36 Grand Bois38 Illusions40 Du Lac42 Lunatiques44 Maison de Calcasieu47 Of the Marsh48 Noblesse50 Masque52 Pirates55 L’Possede56 Sauvage

contents

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On Cover: Krewe Des Amis King andQueen of 2013, Len and Brenda Ford

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

PUBLISHERPhil de [email protected]

EDITORLauren de [email protected]

GRAPHICSART/PRODUCTION DIRECTORDarrell Buck

ART/PRODUCTION ASSISTANTBurn Rourk

BUSINESSOFFICE MANAGERKay Andrews

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FEBRUARY 11, 2013 2013 Special Edition

A Note From The PublisherMardi Gras 2013 has been

one of the shortest we’ve had ina long time. This means that allof our partying had to becrammed into what seemed likea few brief weeks. Some ballswere actually held BEFORETwelfth Night—just to accom-modate all of the Krewes.

But a short season doesn’tchange anything, or stop any-one from celebrating. We justrealize that we have less time todo it in. We have to buy ourbeads and get our dresseshemmed earlier and shop forgowns sooner (I do that all yearround, anyway).

Then, there’s always thechance that the band that wemay want for our ball may have

already accepted another book-ing. Or a venue isn’t availablefor our ball date. Not to men-tion, we may miss a ball wenormally attend because itcould fall on the same night asanother one. When the seasonis longer, there’s less of a chanceof that happening.

In most Krewes, ball themeswere finalized and royal courtswere selected by early summer,and designers started on cos-tumes as soon as they could.There’s lots of juggling andextra planning to make sureeverything goes according toplan.

But we get it all done, andwe make it work. Because welove Mardi Gras, and becausewe are so lucky to live in

Southwest Louisiana, where theholiday is growing by leaps andbounds.

So enjoy Mardi Gras 2013!It’s been short, but memorable.And thank you for letting usbring your our fourth annual

Lake Charles Mardi GrasEdition.

Happy Mardi Gras!

– Lauren de Albuquerque

“We are very proudof our local MardiGras, which bringspeople to SouthwestLouisiana from allover the country.Mardi Gras inSouthwest Louisianais a community-widecelebration and afamily affair. Overthe years, it hasgrown remarkablyinto the standout fes-tival it is today — thesecond largest in thestate! My very bestwishes to all for asafe and memorable2013 Mardi Gras inLake Charles and allof SouthwestLouisiana.”

On behalf of the citizens ofSulphur, we welcome you tothe 2013 SouthwestLouisiana Mardi Gras festivi-ties.

This is a very exciting eventwhich revelers anticipateeach year. The krewes workdiligently all year for theevents planned includingTwelfth Night, balls, and ofcourse, the Krewe of Krewesparade. Local merchantshave mastered their famousking cakes and have shippedthem to thousands who arefascinated with our heritage.

Not just a local event,Southwest Louisiana MardiGras attracts tourists fromother areas who travel here towitness the fun and excite-ment that we all know.

Our wish for each of you isfor a safe and enjoyable 2013Mardi Gras and remember…

Laissez les bons tempsrouler!

2013 Special Edition FEBRUARY 11, 2013 PAGE 5

Krewe of Krewes Grand MarshalDale Mann

Dale is one of the most respected names in theBroadcasting Industry in SWLA. His voice isprobably the most recognized in this area andheard on radio and TV commercials all over theSouthern United States. He has won the coveted“Best Radio DJ” awards on reader’s polls from theLagniappe and The Times for over 19 yearsstraight. He is also proud of the Harper ClarkHumanitarian Award given to him by the UnitedWay. His community involvement includes work-ing with Mardi Gras of SWLA, The AmericanHeart Association, The American Cancer Society,Rotary Clubs, The American Red Cross, and TheCalcasieu Council on Aging. He proudly serves asMaster of Ceremonies for many Mardi Grasevents including 12th Night, the Royal Gala, andmany Mardi Gras Balls. You can still hear himcranking out country music in Gator 99.5 week-day afternoons from 3-7 p.m. Merchant’s Parade Marshal

Glenn DaigleGlenn owned Glenn Daigle Construction for16 years before he made the move into thefood business in 1992, when he purchasedRobideaux’s, which is now Rabideaux’sSausage Kitchen, Inc. Glenn is the past presi-dent of the LA Little Britches, was on theboard of the National Little Britches and wasalso a Finals Chairman of the National LittleBritches in Colorado. He’s currently a boardmember of W & L Trail Riders.Glenn also owns Daigle Farms and offers car-riage rides for various occasions. For the pastthree years, he has held a Christmas Trail Rideto benefit St. Jude’s Children Research andHospital on the first weekend in December,which has currently raised $70,000. He’s cur-rently reorganizing the Western HeritageWeek Long Trail Ride from Gueydan to LakeCharles LA with the help of Blaine Crochet.

Children’s Parade MarshalsThe Children's Parade Marshals are a group of boys that are representing our area in prime fashion.

They started out as one team and are now three teams strong!

BOLT BASEBALL Bolt (original team) 9AAA Coached by Brian LaRocca, Jason Reed, David Thompson and JD Welsh

Bolt Purple 9 AA Coached by Jared Fuselier, Phillip Abshire and Brett TrahanBolt Gold 8u Coached by Christopher Abshire, Brandon Yates and Brad Posch


Krewe Des Amis celebrated its 33rd year onSaturday, January 26 in the Lake Charles CivicCenter Coliseum. The theme for the 2013 ballwas “A Cultural Mardi Gras.” The venue wastransformed that night for Krewe members andguests to celebrate this year’s Mardi Gras season.

The 2012 Royal Court was introduced for thefinal time: King and Queen Scott and KristinaLounsberry and their Dukes and Duchesses,James “Jimbo” and Kristen Orndoff, PatrickVerrette and Annette St. Romain, and Dr. Benand Emily Williams.

The first 2013 royal couple, Corey and DanaHebert were the Duke and Duchess of Greek andRoman Culture. Duke Corey, a manager ofTadlock Pipe and Rental attended the University ofSouthwestern Louisiana. He is a member of ACTSand is one of the founding members of Bitter EndHunting Lodge. He enjoys competing in triathlons,spending time with his family and traveling. Healso enjoys hunting, fishing and playing golf.

Duchess Dana works for Solar Supply. Sheearned a Bachelor of Science degree inBiomedical Science from Texas A&M Universityand an MBA in Management from the Universityof Houston. She is a sustaining member of theJunior League of Lake Charles and a member ofthe PTC at OLQH School. She is also a memberof ACTS and an ADPi Alumni. She enjoys travel-ing, reading, Bible study and spending time withfamily and friends. The couple is a member ofOur Lady Queen of Heaven Church. They havethree children, Jacob, 11, Riley, 8, and Briggs, 5and reside in Lake Charles.

Duke Corey represented a Roman CenturionSoldier. He wore a supple brown leather cottontunic over a vest embellished with sequins, stonesand brass buttons, and a burgundy crushed velvetcape over his black and gold armor plate. His goldand black warrior’s helmet was adorned with bur-gundy feathers. He carried a bronze and blackshield and defended himself with a mighty sword.His collar represented shields of armor embel-lished with Roman coins.

Duchess Dana represented the Great OlympianGoddess of Hunting and Wilderness. Her long

flowing gown of iridescent brown andgreen silk was decorated with foliage laceand trimmed with gold sequins. She car-ried a large hunting bow embellishedwith lace and feathers. Her collar repre-sented the hunter’s moon—the typicalsymbol of Artemis—embellished with sil-ver sequined stars and jewels and sparklingLED lights. Both costumes and collars weredesigned and created by DVal Designs.

Dr. Craig and April Morton were theDuke and Duchess of Egyptian Culture.Duke Craig is a physician at the Center forOrthopedics. He attended McNeese StateUniversity where he earned a Bachelor ofScience degree in Biological Science, and hismedical degree from LSU. He is a member ofACTS, Calcasieu Parish Medical Society,American of Physical Medicine andRehabilitation and International SpineInjection Society. Duke Craig enjoys running,fishing and spending time with family.

Duchess April, a domestic engineer, graduatedfrom McNeese State University with a Bachelor ofScience degree in Environmental Science. She is amember of Junior League of Lake Charles, ACTS,McNeese State Alumni Board and Calcasieu ParishMedical Society Alliance. Duchess April enjoysreading, cooking, traveling and spending time withher family. The couple has three children, Layla,11, Alyssa, 9, and Ella, 5. They reside in LakeCharles and attend St. Martin de Porres church.

Duke Craig represented an Egyptian Pharaoh.His cream and gold lame’ satin tunic was adornedwith a jeweled royal apron of orange velvet lame’trimmed in gold and turquoise sequins andjewels. The Pharaoh’s headpiece wasturquoise lame’ accented with gold sequin trimand jewels. His turquoise staff was accentuatedwith a golden cobra and his collar was an

2013 King and Queen, Len and Brenda Ford

Duke and Duchesses of Greek and Roman Culture, Corey and Dana Hebert

Duke and Duchesses of the Egyptian Culture, Craig and April Morton


Egyptian pyramid flanked byguardian dogs.

Duchess April represented theEgyptian Queen Cleopatra. Herorange and gold brocade gown wasembellished with turquoise crystalsand silver and gold sequins. Her longflowing cape was hologram orangesatin and gold and turquoise beadsand a gold serpent accented her head-dress. Her golden snake collar repre-sented the Egyptian symbols of royal-ty and wealth and was handmadewith gold, orange and turquoise beadsand sequins. Duke Craig and DuchessApril’s costumes and collars were alsodesigned by DVal Designs.

The next Court couple to appearwas the Duke and Duchess of AsianCulture, Casey and Deanna “DeeDee” Brimmage. The couple residesin Pearland, TX. Duke Casey is anurse anesthetist at Baylor College ofMedicine, Texas Children’s Hospitaland is on the Faculty of the Universityof Texas School of Nursing. He is agraduate of Louisiana State Universitywhere he earned a Bachelor of Sciencein Nursing, and Baylor College ofMedicine where he earned a Master ofScience. He enjoys camping, cheeringon the LSU Tigers and taking on DIYprojects at home.

Duchess Dee Dee is currently astay-at-home mom and was a former

elementary teacher in both CalcasieuParish and Katy ISD. She attendedLouisiana State University,where sheearned a Bachelor of Science degreein Elementary Education. A memberof the Methodist Children’s ProgramPTO, she enjoys travelling, cookingand volunteering for children’s chari-ties. She also enjoys tailgating andcheering on the LSU Tigers and theHouston Dynamos. The couple hastwo daughters, Meredith 4 and Mia 2.

Duke Casey represented a SamuraiWarrior wearing a Kataginu Vest ofpurple and black brocade lined in redhologram satin, which was worn overa gold silk Dogi wrap jacket embel-lished with sequins and crystal stones.His trousers were authentic Hakama 7pleated black linen trimmed in goldbraid and black iridescent sequins.His red lame’ scroll collar was accent-ed with Japanese characters andtopped with a gold sequined lightedJapanese Dragon.

Duchess Dee Dee wore a MadameButterfly kimono of red and gold silkwith gold butterflies trimmed withpurple sequins and spotlight crystals.Her purple satin obi sash was embel-lished with sequins and gold beads.Her collar depicted a Japaneseumbrella decorated with dragons,cherry blossoms and butterfliesaccented with crystal beads and LED

lights. Their costumes and collarswere designed by DVal Designs.

The King and Queen of 2013, Lenand Brenda Ford, finally made theirappearance. King Len works in salesfor LA Radio Communications. Heattended McNeese State Universitywhere he earned a business degree. Heis a member of Kappa Alpha OrderAlumni Association and enjoys play-ing golf and fishing. He has two sons,Chris, 29 and Scott, 26. Queen Brendaworks in sales for Sudden Link Mediaand enjoys gardening. She has threechildren, Nick, 32, Holly, 32 and BillyMowbray, 28. The couple has fourgrandchildren, Tayden Guidry, 12, LilyMowbray, 4, Aubree Ford, 3,and EmersonFord, 7 months.They both lovespending timewith their grand-kids. The coupleattends WatersEdge Church.

King Len’s whitesatin costume wasembellished withsequins, rhinestonesand beaded silver andgold trim. QueenBrenda looked ravish-ing in her white satin,full-length formal

gown, also trimmed with gold sequins,rhinestones and appliqués. Both KingLen and Queen Brenda wore theKrewe’s elaborate white and gold man-tles that were heavily adorned withgold appliqués, topped with theKrewe’s traditional white and goldcapes. Both costumes were designedand created by Kevin Hodge.

The Krewe then toasted theirroyalty and enjoyed a final prome-nade by their Court. Then it wastime to party with music byChinatown. Photography was doneby Gary Meeks.

Duke and Duchesses of

Asian Culture, Casey and

Dee Dee Brimmage

Action Potential Physical Therapy Floyd and Sharon Saltzman4080 Nelson Rd – 337-494-7546

Athletic RepublicScott and Kristina Lounsberry3708 Maplewood Dr – 337-214-0029

John D. Myers & Associates3613 Ryan Street – 337-478-8381

The Boarding HouseCall Rosie & Molly – 337-474-1237

Creative Design Upholstery Lynn Edwards1811 Elm Street – 337-493-2091

Captains Phillip and Aimee Abshire


When Mardi Gras of Imperial Calcasieu was formed back in the 1980s, no one ever dreamed how that vision of uniting the Mardi Gras krewes in the area and providing a parade and other events for the general public would expand to the extravaganza that Mardi Gras SWLA has become.

Nearly 35 years later, we now have more than 60 krewes coming together to stage the Twelfth Night Celebration, the Royal Gala, the Krewe of Krewes Parade and many more fabulous events, all under the direction of Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana.

Thank you Southwest Louisiana forputting the Mambo in Mardi Gras!

WE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO THANK THIS SEASON'S SPONSORS.• Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana

Convention & Visitors Bureau• L'Auberge Lake Charles• Coushatta Casino Resort• Brookshire Brothers-Sulphur• Cormie's Grocery• Southwest Beverage Company• KPLC• Thrive Magazine • AdSource Outdoor


The Krewe of Athena celebratedits 11th Mardi Gras Ball on Saturday,January 19. The theme was an “Old-Fashioned Courir du Mardi Gras.”MC for the evening was Lee Peck ofKPLC-TV. Music by the 5th AvenueBand of Lafayette and Southern DJProductions provided for a greatevening of fun and entertainment.

Captain Athena XI was revealedto be Henrietta Akers who struttedher stuff in the great “Chicken Run”and stirred the pot for the big gumbo.Captain Henrietta is a Lacassine nativeand longtime Sulphur resident. She isa graduate of Lacassine High andDemmon School of Beauty. She hasbeen a hair stylist for many years andwas the previous owner of Henrietta’sSalon in Sulphur. She now works withher daughter at Studio K Salon andSpa in Sulphur. She is a charter mem-ber of the Krewe and is also a memberof the Krewe of Cosmos and St.Theresa’s Catholic Church. Henriettais married to Wayne Akers and togeth-er they have seven children: JenniferDuplechin, JD Peloquin, JammieGremillion, Justin Peloquin, HollieGreenwood, Paul Ryan Akers andTammie Courmier. They also have 17grandchildren.

The Krewe honored the youngadult children of some members bypresenting them as Princesses andGents. The Princesses were PaisleeFruge’ and Rebekah Lyons. The Gentsincluded Andreu LeFleur, JustinLandry and Christopher McVicker.

Paislee is the daughter of Bethanyand Lonnie Bertrand of Sulphur. ASulphur High graduate, she is major-ing in nursing at McNeese. Rebekahis the daughter of Nikki Lyons andthe granddaughter of Krewe memberDenise (and Kenny) Savant, all ofIowa. She is an Iowa High graduateand is studying culinary arts at

Sowela. Andreu is the son ofChauntelle and Chad LeJeune ofSulphur. A graduate of Sulphur High,he is majoring in English and com-puter science at McNeese. Justin, theson of Christine and Blaine Landry ofLacassine, is a graduate of LacassineHigh and is studying athletic trainingat McNeese. Christopher is the son ofDenise and Wayne McVicker ofLacassine. He is a graduate ofLacassine High and is majoring inBiology at LSU.

Duchess Aglaia XI was TinaDoiron Verret as she represented theGrace of Splendor and Brilliance.Duchess Tina is a native of Sulphurand currently resides in Lacassine.She is a graduate of Sulphur High andhas been employed in the bankingindustry for over 20 years. She hasbeen with Jeff Davis Bank for the pastseven years and is currently the realestate appraisal department manager.Tina has been a member of Athenafor eight years and is a member ofKrewe du Lac and St. John theEvangelist Catholic Church. She has adaughter Heather and son CodyVerret, and is the daughter ofGeraldine and the late James Doironof Sulphur. She was escorted by herhusband, Randy Verret.

The Grace of Good Cheer andBlossoms, Duchess Thalia XI wasDana Conner Gauthier. The duchessis a native of Cameron and resides inSulphur. She is a graduate of SouthCameron High and holds an associatedegree in word processing fromMcNeese. She is employed as a senioroil and gas analyst at Sweet LakeLand & Oil Co. Duchess Danaattends Our Lady of Prompt SuccorCatholic Church and is the daughterof Bobby and Bernice LaLande ofLake Charles and Judy and the lateTerry Conner of Kaplan. Duchess

Dana was escorted by her two sons,Cutter and Conner Gauthier.

Duchess Euphrosyne XI wasSherill Myers, representing the Graceof Joy and Mirth. Sherill is a lifelongresident of Lake Charles. She is agraduate of LaGrange High Schooland is retired after serving as officemanager for Calcasieu Parish JuvenileCourt. She is a member of theCalcasieu Heirloom Stitchers,Contraband Quilters and Beta SigmaPhi Sorority, Xi Alpha Iota Chapter.Sherill is also a member of Our LadyQueen of Heaven Church. She is athird-year member of Athena and thethird generation for DuchessEuphrosyne, being mother ofEuphrosyne VI, Tina McVicker andgrandmother of Euphrosyne X,Rachael McVicker. Duchess Sherilland her husband James Myers are theparents of four children: DarleneBlecker, Tina McVicker, Keith Myersand Tammy McDonald. They have 15grandchildren.

Queen Hera XI was revealed tobe Bethany Istre Bertrand. A nativeof Lake Charles, she currently residesin Carlyss. Queen Bethany is a 1992graduate of LaGrange High Schooland is a member of ImmaculateConception Catholic Church inSulphur. She is employed withWestlake Chemical Corp. as a humanresources clerk and serves on theemployment involvement committee.This is the Queen’s sixth year in thekrewe. She is the mother of PaisleeFruge and Madden Bertrand and thedaughter of Fayla and Delen Hay ofLake Charles. She was escorted by herhusband, Lonnie Bertrand.

The Krewe of Athena was charteredin 2002 and is a women’s Krewe com-prised of a full membership of 140.Their Royal Court and Ball Captain arechosen by the “luck of the draw.”

Andrew LaFleur

Paislee Fruge

Christopher McVicker

Rebeka Lyons

Justin Landry

Duchess Dana Gauthier, Queen Bethany Bertrand, Duchess Sherill Myers, Captain Henrietta Akers, Duchess Tina Verret


From the beautifully appointedChateau du Calcasieu, Krewe desBons Amis presented their eighthannual Mardi Gras Ball, “MardiGras in Black and White” onFebruary 2. The ballroom, with itswhite walls and black wrought ironmade a perfect backdrop for theBlack and White Ball.

Jimmy Bastow, founding mem-ber of the Krewe, welcomed mem-bers and guests and introduced theMaster of Ceremonies for thenight, Justin Morris.

A fond farewell was bid to the2012 Royalty. King Henry VII,Matt Gillespie and Queen AnneVII, Leslie Gillespie made thefinal walk of their reign. To com-mence the 2013 Royal Ball,Captain Carrie Cubbage and co-Captain Jody Fawvor were intro-duced to the guests and as is tradi-tion, Captain Carrie blew the whis-tle denoting the beginning of theBall.

In keeping with the theme, KingHenry VIII, Brad Hebert andQueen Anne VIII, Diana Hebertwere presented to the membersand guests to the song “Black andWhite” by Michael Jackson.

King Henry VIII wore an ivorytailcoat tuxedo trimmed with silverand black fleur des lis. The King’scrown consisted of fleur de lis overthe entire crown with accents ofpurple, green and gold stones.

Queen Anne VIII wore an ivory

gown accented with Swarovskicrystals and silver and gold fleur delis. It was embellished with purple,green and gold stones.

The Royal Couple resides inMoss Bluff and have been marriedfor 24 years. Brad is superintendentfor M & C Oilfield Services andDiana is office manager forCalcasieu Rentals. They have threechildren, Hope, Jennifer, Marcusand four grandchildren.

Duke and Duchess of CajunMafia, Aaron and Suzanne Maywere the next to be introduced. Ina scene from everyone’s favoritegangster movie and carryingTommy guns, the Duchess present-ed herself in a black and white pin-stripe trench coat, black dress andboots and of course, a mini-fedorablack hat. The Duke wore a whitezoot suit with black pinstripes andwhite hat. Since they are CajunMafia, it didn’t take long for themto tire of being gangsters and theybegan to dance to the swing musicof the era.

The Duke and Duchess are resi-dents of Moss Bluff and have beenmarried for six years. Aaron is a cap-tain in the Lake Charles FireDepartment and Suzanne isemployed by Stockwell Sievert LawFirm as a legal assistant. She also hasserved as the Krewe secretary for thepast two years. They are the parentsof Hannah, Amanda and Kellan.

In the first skit to entertain the

King Henry VIII, Brad Hebert and Queen Anne VIII, Diana Hebert

Captain Carrie Cubbage and co-Captain Jody Fawvor


Royal Court, Mike Allen appearedin a white shirt with a pocket pro-tector, bow tie, black “high water”pants, suspenders, tennis shoes,and a black Star Wars hat. Hisglasses were taped to complete hislook for Weird Al’s “White andNerdy” routine. He walked thefloor working the crowd by beinghimself—all white and nerdy!

Duke and Duchess of Voodoowere the next to be introduced.Out of the fog, we saw a female fig-ure pushing a casket into the light.She wore a long black gown, feath-ered headpiece and long black andwhite gloves with a skull at herwaist. Then, the Duchess per-formed a ritual. To the guests’ sur-prise, the Duke of Voodooappeared from the casket in a blacktattered tuxedo and black top hattrimmed in red and white stripe.Bones hung from his lapel andskeleton gloves and a voodoo staffcompleted the ensemble.

The Duke and Duchess ofVoodoo were Mike and Kristin

Anderson. They are residents ofWestlake. Mike is the field sales andservice coordinator for Archer WellCompany of Houston and Kristin isa stay-at-home mom and assists onthe decorating committee for theKrewe. Both are volunteers for theHouston Livestock Show andRodeo. They have one son, Miles.

The next skit entertainmentbegan with “Men in Black” DennisLavergne, Matt Gillespie andBryan Hollingsworth outfitted inblack tuxedos and dark sunglasses.Are they looking for aliens? No,they were looking for a bride!Michelle Gaspard entered in awhite corset complete with an iri-descent mini skirt, fishnet hose, aveil, bouquet, garter and silver highheels. She and BryanHollingsworth entertained to“White Trash Wedding” by theDixie Chicks. As they bowed to theKing and Queen, “White Wedding”by Billy Idol could be heard in thebackground

What do you do with a haunt-

ing spirit? Ask the Duke andDuchess of the Afterlife! As theysat around the table making a plan,we heard the calypso sounds of“Jump In The Line” by HarryBelafonte. The Duke was dressedfor action with his black combatboots, black and white striped suitand Beetlejuice wig. The Duchesswore a black and white bias-cut,striped, one-shoulder dress withblack skirt overlay. The plan seemsto work as they rocked their bodiesin time to scare away the spiritsand share their Mardi Gras throwswith the guests.

Duke and Duchess of theAfterlife were David Martin andKysha Hebert. Both are residentsof Sulphur. David is an instrumenttech employed by PPG Industries.Kysha is an administrative assistantemployed by Vector Electric andControls and has been the KreweBall decorating chairman for twoyears. They are both involved inCrossFit training and have a four-legged son, Riley the Golden

Retriever.As a surprise to the King and

Queen, the Dukes and Duchessesperformed in the “Gangnam Style”and the guests loved it! The RoyalCourt was toasted with the assis-tance of 2012 King and QueenMatt and Leslie Gillespie.Immediately following the toast,the Royal Court danced to theSecond Line and the members andguests followed.

The dance began with musicprovided by the Kadillacs. Soundand Lighting were provided bySouthern DJ Productions.

A big thank you to the Board ofDirectors: Diana Hebert,President; Vice President, MattGillespie; Secretary, SuzanneMay; Treasurer, Jackie Bastow;Social Chairman and Webmaster,Leslie Gillespie; Ball DecoratingChairman, Kysha Hebert; BallChairman, Amy Gerard;Captains, Carrie Cubbage andJody Fawvor; and FloatChairman, Brad Hebert.

Duke and Duchess of Cajun Mafia,Aaron and Suzanne May

The Duke and Duchess of Voodoo,Mike and Kristin Anderson

Duke and Duchess of the Afterlife,David Martin and Kysha Hebert


The Krewe du Bon Coeur (Kreweof the Good Heart) opened up its2013 Mardi Gras season with its 16thannual Mardi Gras Ball January 12 atthe Habibi Temple in Lake Charles.The theme for this year’s ball was“Pirates of the Gulf Coast.”

The Ball opened up with Masterof Ceremonies Dale Mann as we bidfarewell to the past Royal Court,Captain Gerald Bryant, King BonCoeur XV Troy Portie and QueenBon Coeur XV Carol Portie; Dukeand Duchess of Gumbo, Mr. HenryDavid and Mrs. Edie Keys; Duke

and Duchess of Fred’s Lounge,Gerald Johnson and Mrs. Missy

Vanicor; Duke and Duchess ofTee-Mamou, Mr. Ronnie Mesh

and Mrs. Libby Laubach;Duke and Duchess of LazesLe Bon Temps Rouler, Mr.Lawrence Mire and Ms.April Nixon.

The Presentation followed the tra-ditional blowing of the Captain’swhistle. Captain David Patrick wasintroduced and accompanied by hismotley crew of pirates. The Captaingraduated from Dequincy HighSchool in 1985. He and his wife Lindahave been married for 23 years andhave two children, Allison and Darin,who are both attending college. Davidcurrently works for EPL Oil and Gasbased out of New Orleans.

Next, the 2013 honorary debutanteswere presented to members and guests.Miss Mallory McCoy Boudreaux,daughter of Scott Boudreaux and LoriCourtright of Sulphur and grand-daughter of Krewe members Charlieand Margie Boudreaux, was escortedby Charlie Boudreaux. Mallory gradu-ated from Sulphur High School in 2012and is currently attending McNeeseState University where she is majoringin nursing.

King and Queen Bon Coeur XVIPaul Schulder and Joy Fruge

Captain David Patrick


Miss Jesse Marie Turner, daugh-ter of Krewe members William“Skipper” Turner and LauraPonthieux was escorted by her uncleRichard Marcantel, also a Krewemember. Jessie graduated fromSulphur High School in 2012, and iscurrently attending the University ofLouisiana, Lafayette, where she ismajoring in middle school math.

It was time to meet the 2013Court! The Duke and Duchess ofGalveston Island were KentVincent and Michelle Foreman.Duke Kent graduated from SulphurHigh School in 1985 and is retiredfrom the United States Air Forceafter 24 years of service. Currentlyliving in Sulphur, he is married toRebecca (Reon) Vincent and theyhave four daughters, Jennifer, AnnaMarie, Megan, and Alydia. Theyhave one grandson, James, and oneon the way, along with two grand-daughters, Ari and the late RyleighBigham. The Duke works for theDepartment of Defense- DefenseContract Management Group atNorthrop Grumman Corp.

Duchess Michelle attendedSulphur High School and graduatedin 1991. She also graduated in fromMcNeese State University in 1998with a bachelor’s degree in liberalstudies. She is married to AllenForeman and they reside inWestlake with their children Erica,17, Alexander, 13, and Isabelle, 5.She is employed by Walgreens as anassistant manager.

The Duke and Duchess ofVermilion Bay were Todd Carrereand Sissy Williams. Duke Toddattended LSU-E where his core cur-riculum prepared him for a bache-lor’s degree in mathematics. He alsoattended McNeese State Universitywhere he received his Bachelor’s andMaster’s of Science in mathematics.Todd is currently living in LakeCharles, married to wife Kim, andworking at Sowela TechnicalCommunity College as an Instructorof Mathematics.

Duchess Sissy attended gradeschool in Montana and graduatedfrom McNeese State University witha Bachelor’s degree in accounting.She is married to Todd Williams andthey reside in Lake Charles withtheir children, Kris Ann and Jacob.She is the owner of K&J Accounting

The Duke and Duchess ofBarataria Bay were Bobby Gillardand Lisa Fawvor. Duke Bobby grad-uated from Lagrange Senior Highschool. He and his wife Sandra(Zaunbrecher) Gillard live in Sulphurand have two daughters, Summerand Haley. He works for EntergyCorp. as a safety professional.

Duchess Lisa graduated fromPort Neches Groves High school,attended Lamar University and has adegree in radiology. She is in anawesome relationship with DwaineEllender, has a son Aaron and twograndchildren. She works part timeat Southwest Texas Imaging as a

reading room assistant and is also apart-time event planner for Chateaude Bon Reve. She currently residesin Sulphur.

The Duke and Duchess ofMobile Bay were Shannon Corbelloand Denise Vanicor. Duke Shannonwas born and raised in Lacassineand graduated from Lacassine HighSchool. He and his wife Lacie havebeen married for 14 years. Theyhave two daughters, Kenzi andKenna and a son, Kason. Shannon isthe owner/operator of CorbelloTrucking Company.

Duchess Denise graduated fromWelsh High School and resides inWelsh. She is employed by the JeffDavis Parish Clerk of Court and ismarried to Glenn Vanicor. Theyhave a son Jamie, a daughter-in-lawGina and two of the best grandkidsin the world, Jacy, 9 and Carter, 7.

King Bon Coeur XVI PaulSchuldes was born and raised inNew York City. He attended theSchool of Visual Arts, then joined theUS Army in 1966 and retired as aFirst Sergeant after 22 years of serv-ice. He is married to Jackie Kullard ofMoss Bluff. For the past 13 years, heand his wife have owned and operat-ed Uniformly Fit, a local retail store.Paul is a charter member of Krewedu Bon Coeur and has served on theboard and has been a Duke. He wasescorted by Amy Grimes.

Queen Bon Coeur XVI, JoyFruge, is originally from MorganCity. She and her husband Geraldhave three children and six grandchil-dren. She is the accounting managerfor Lake Charles Music and is a mem-ber of Our Lady Queen of HeavenCatholic Church. Joy is a past mem-ber of Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sororitywhere she was East St. Mary ParishCoordinator for Cystic Fibrosis. Shehas also volunteered with theAmerican Heart Association,American Cancer Society and theUnited Way. Joy is a charter memberof Krewe du Bon Coeur and served asthe Krewe’s first Captain. She wasescorted by RJ Grimes.

Following the traditional toast byCaptain David Patrick, he led theKing, Queen and Royal Court in thetraditional promenade. Then, Krewemembers and guests danced the nightaway to the music of Nik-L-Beer.Deep South Productions provided thesound, music and lighting. SusanLamendola was responsible for thescript and led a group of talentedKrewe members with the decorations.

The Captain’s costume wasdesigned by Valery Smith of DValDesigns.

Krewe du Bon Coeur Boardmembers are Captain DavidPatrick, Vice President AmyGrimes, Secretary Kim Vaughn,Social Director Selena Bryant andTreasurer Vicki Saxby.

All photos shown were taken byGary W. Meek. The King, Queen,and Captain’s pictures were taken atthe Marsh Club in Vinton, La.

Bobby Gillard and Lisa Fawvor

Kent Vincent and Michelle Foreman

Jessie Marie Turner Mallory McCoy Bouderaux

Shannon Corbello and Denise Vanicor

Todd Carrere and Sissy Williams


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There’s a new Krewe in town, and it’s just for you! TheRoyal Court Jesters of Imperial Calcasieu is forming in theLake Area.

Anne Monlezun sent a letter to area Krewes recently togauge interest—and it was overwhelming.

“It will be an umbrella organization over smaller divi-sions that will be sponsored by Krewes and/or organiza-tions,” she said.

Krewe member children will be in that Krewe’s division.“For example, The Royal Court Jesters of Krewe de laFamille will be under the umbrella of Royal Court Jestersof Imperial Calcasieu,” she explained.

But a child’s parents don’t have to be in a Krewe in order to belong.Monlezun anticipates going to local schools so children whose familiesaren't in Krewes will know about the opportunity. Therefore, therecould be Royal Court Jesters of (insert school name here) that wouldfall under the umbrella.

The new Krewe will be modeled after the current 12th NightRevelers. A costumed Krewe, the ages of the members have not yetbeen decided. There will be one king and queen and a royal courtselected (not elected) from all the Jesters. They may have their ownparade depending on the size of the Krewe and the interest.

“Membership in the Royal Court Jesters of Imperial Calcasieu willbe a ‘no-brainer package,’” Monlezun continued. “Dues will includecostume, party/ball, etc. That way, it’s kept simple. Everyone pays samething and gets the same benefits.”

The fee and other details will be decided at organizational meetingsheld after Mardi Gras. Watch local publications, or go to the MardiGras SW websites (www.swlamardigras.com ) and individual Krewemeetings for more information.

CallingAll Kids!


La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinairecelebrated their 2013 ball on January 5at the Lake Charles Civic Center withthe “THE GOOD, THE BADD, andTHE EXTRAORDINAIRE.” Guests weretaken through a Western journey of wildcowboys and cowgirls who steer theircattle into tight circles, protect theirwomen and children, and draw theirsix-shooters as the enemy on paintedwar ponies streaks over the rise of a hill.Most of all, they partied all evening to alive band with Zydeco, swing out, linedances, and the Second Line.

This Krewe of ExtraordinaryPeople, founded in 1995, has made acommitment to foster and promote thisjoyous celebration by participating inall Mardi Gras activities in SouthwestLouisiana.

Master of Ceremonies NoraPopillion started the evening with theintroduction of the Washington-Marion Magnet High School R.O.T.C.as they presented the US flag, accom-panied by Ricky Armelin singing theNational Anthem.

The Krewe paid tribute to the 2012Honorary King, Duane Gauthier andoutgoing Queen Phyliss Gauthier.Duane passed in 2009.

The Sheriff and his Deputy, KrewePresident Herman Joseph and VicePresident Lilly Vincent, presented theKrewe Flag.

Ball Captain, Ms. Sybil Irving,touting her six-shooter and firing atwill, preceded the introduction of the2013 Court.

Representing Ole Shine with his mis-chievous smile dampened with moon-shine was Duke Kenneth Case. Ken wasborn and raised in Philadelphia but hasbeen a resident of Louisiana for over 40years. He is a retiree from PPG Industriesas an instrument tech. He has been mar-ried to Maxine Thomas Case for 26years, and they have four children andeight grandchildren. They are the grand-parents to a special granddaughter, ShajiaMitchell. Ken is a charter member of theKrewe and has served 10 years as pastpresident. He is currently employed atthe Calcasieu Juvenile Detention Center.

Now down in New Orleans, there’s avoodoo lady who casts spells of nonbe-lievers. Our voodoo lady was Duchess

Relina Malveaux. Relina has been avery active member of the Krewe since2010. Born and raised in Houma, shemarried the late Anthony Malveaux andmoved to Lake Charles in 1970. To theirunion came three children, TiwonnaMalveaux and Anthony and QuincyMalveaux of Deluth, Georgia. Relinahas three grandchildren, Kyndal,Kymani, and Kye. Relina has beenemployed as a tax preparer at H&RBlock for the past seven years. Sheenjoys traveling, cooking, and spendingtime with family and friends.

Back in 1866, the Buffalo Soldierswere on the front line of combat in theCivil War. Earning only $13 a month,these African American soldiers werecommitted to protecting their countryno matter what. Our Buffalo Soldierwas Duke Michael Fontenot. Michaelis presently employed at Phillips66Industries. He has been a member ofthe Krewe for three years.

Representing a Flair for the OleWest—Ms. Mary Fields, the first blacklady to drive a stagecoach—was Ms.Psyche Sims. Psyche is the daughter ofWarren Davis and the late Ardalia Sims.The mother of Chris, Quincy andBrandon, she is the owner/operator ofPremier Specialist Couriers, LLC andhas been employed at PPG industries for10 years. She is a 2010 Grad of MSU andis currently pursuing a master’s in busi-ness. A Member of NAACP, Psycheenjoys traveling and spending time withfamily and friends.

With any job you take, whether itsgood, bad, or extraordinary, you have toGo Hard or Go Home. Going Hard wereTammy & James Thibodeaux. Tammywas born in Westlake to Clarence BrownSr. and the late Rosie Marie Brown. She isactive in several organizations such asAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Zeta PiChapter, McNeese State University, andthe Women’s Commission of SWLA,where she has served as director of theJunior Women’s Conference and chair-man of the Hostess/ModeratorCommittee. She is also a Big Sister withBig Brothers/Big Sisters of SouthwestLouisiana and a volunteer for theBanners’ Rouge et Blanc event. Employedat the 14th Judicial District Clerk ofCourt as a jury manager, she and James

have been married for 19 years. Theyhave one son, Cameron BlakeThibodeaux and one goddaughter,Jasmine Jenee Brown.

James “J.R.” Thibodeaux was bornand raised in Lake Charles, to NancyThibodeaux and the late SidneyThibodeaux. A sports car and musicadvocate, he is a member of the LakeCharles Camaro Club and the Knightsof Pete Claver. James is a graduate ofLake Charles High and attended SowelaTechnical Community College. He isemployed at the Calcasieu Parish PoliceJury as a facility manager .He is amember of St. Henry Catholic Churchand serves as an usher andExtraordinary minister of HolyCommunion. He enjoys spending timewith his wife and family.

La Krewe Des Gens Extraordinairesproudly presented their XVIII Kingand Queen, King Earl Williams andQueen Robin Williams, as they repre-sented “The Good, the Badd, and theExtraordinaire.”

King Earl is from McCaulley, Texas.A graduate of McCaulley High School,he is the son of the late Cecil and EdnaWilliams. He is the owner of WilliamsHauling Service and owner/operatorwith Suddath United Van Lines inGrand Prairie for the past 20 years. Hehas been married to Robin KingWilliams from Lake Charles for 18years. They live in Dallas where theyattend St. Vincent De Paul CatholicChurch, They have three sons, Chris,Chance, and Tanner. Earl enjoys golf-ing, fishing, hunting, playing cards andbarbecuing.

Queen Robin is a former resident ofLake Charles. She is the daughter of PearlThierry King and the late Raymond C.King. A graduate of Washington HighSchool, she attended McNeese State

University and the University of NewOrleans for marketing and management.Robin is an event planner and the ownerof R. Williams Lasting Impressions andBling Out Diva Inc. Robin is president ofArdyss Internationally, the founder ofRBTL Book Club and “Breakfast atTiffany’s” Social Club for ProfessionalBlack Women in the Dallas/Ft. Wortharea. Robin volunteers for many nonprof-it charitable organizations. Robin andEarl enjoy decorating, traveling, enter-taining, and most of all, spending timewith family.

Following the presentation of the2013 Royal Court, guests were enter-tained by Krewe members. MissCharlie (Paula Armelin) sang “Ride itLike A Cowboy” and was serenaded byher husband, Ricky Armelin. In “GirlsNight Out,” Monica King, PaulaArmelin, Cynthia Douglas andTammey Thierry line-danced to FakeID by Big & Rich.

Local up-and-coming future starRusty Metoyer made a special appear-ance to honor the Royal Court andbrought the crowd to their feet.

Then the audience was entertainedby the Zydeco Cowboys featuring CurlyTaylor (I Like Girls, Girls, Girls) andspecial guest J. Paul, Jr. (She Like ThatWood.) Krewe members performingwere Carlos Metoyer (Curley Taylor),Ricky Armelin (J Paul Jr.) HermanJoseph (Cupid), along with lead gui-tarist Eric Thomas and percussionistHerbert Pete. Musical director for thenight was Ron Nash. The Krewe andtheir guest then promenaded into theBuccaneer room as HOTLINE bel-lowed out the Second Line.

The Krewe would like to thank all oftheir family, friends and special guestfor attending the 2013 Mardi Gras Ball!Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez!

Duke Ken Case Duchess Relina Malveaux Duke Michael Fontenot Duchess Psyche Sims Duke James Thibodeaux Duchess Tammy Thibodeaux

King Earl and Queen Robin Williams

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Krewe of Chaos held its eighth annual Mardi GrasBall on January 12, 2013 in the L’Auberge Casino ResortBallroom. This year’s theme was “Chaos…in Search ofthe Missing Loot.”

To kick off the evening, Captain Tisha Stringerintroduced the Krewe of Chaos officers, chairs and co-chairs: Finance Officer Scott Jackson, Captain-ElectKarah Wilson, Summer Social Chair Jade Delome andCo-Chair Earline Stapleton, Fall Event Chair KarahWilson and Co-Chair Vanessa Clavier, Float ChairCarl Monceaux and Co-Chair Robby Russo, Ball ChairByron Martin and Co-Chair Chelle Martin, RoyalCourt Chair Kellery Barton and Co-Chairs CindyDesselle and Cindy Desonnier, and Historical ChairNicole Jackson.

Before Chaos swabbed the deck and battened downthe hatches, members and guests bid farewell to the2012 Royal Court: King Chaos VI Bubba LaBove andQueen Gaea VI Shanda Sonnier.

The Royal Family

Captain Tisha Stringer


Then it was time to meet the Royalty of 2013!Shiver me Timbers… Representing the Duke

and Duchess of the Empress were John andPatrice Michon. The Duke is a Natchez,Mississippi native and has been the Captain ofhis ship with his First Mate from Mamou,Louisiana for 12 ½ years. This Cap’n waves hisJolly Roger at Billy Navarre and his lady takescare of the little mates at home. He graduatedfrom LSU and she graduated from McNeese

State University. This couple’s little mates areMegan, Emma, John Patrick, Ella and a catnamed Romeo.

X Marks the Spot… Representing the Dukeand Duchess of the Black Pearl were Jack andColleen Desselle. This Boatswain is fromJennings and his Powder Monkey is fromSulphur. She’s been his first mate for 23 years.These gold-toothed Sulphur High graduates sailthe seven sees at Citgo as chief operator andCSE Federal Credit Union as the director ofmarketing. Their hidden treasures are LassMadeleine, 15 and Old Salt Michael, 13. Theyalso have a pet chicken named Nugget.

Well, Blow me Down… Representing theDuke and Duchess of the Morning Star wereJason and Joy Plauche. This old Seadog and hisMaiden are from Sulphur. Both graduates ofMcNeese State University, this Buccaneer is asupervisor at PPG and his lady is a third gradeteacher at Maplewood School. They have fourlittle mates, Alexis, Ethan, Grayson, and Cooper.Their loot also includes a Boxer named Katy anda Dachshund named Beaux.

Anchors Away… Representing the Duke andDuchess of the Sea Cliff were Jeff and JenniferSherrill. This Freebooter and Cockswain startedsearching for treasure together 13 years ago. He’sfrom Jacksonville, FL and she’s from Rayne, LA.This Charlie Noble is sales and marketing direc-tor at Advanced Corrosion Technologies andTraining and his landlubber is a fourth grademath teacher at EK Key Elementary. They singsea shanteys with their three children Morgan,Dallas and Baylor.

Swab the Poop Deck and Grab your Rum....Queen Gaea VII and King Chaos VII werefinally revealed. Her Royal Highness, QueenGaea VII Jade Delome, has been an R.N. atWest Cal-Cam Hospital for 12 years. She gradu-ated from Elton High and McNeese StateUniversity and loves watching their childrenplay sports, fishing, and camping. In her freetime, our Queen loves throwing “tea parties.”She’s been married to her King for 18 years andis now the queen of her brand new castle.

His Royal Highness, King Chaos VII JobyDelome, has been an employee of WestlakePolymers for seven years. A graduate of JenningsHigh School and Sowela Community College, heloves bow hunting, spear fishing, scuba diving,following the PBR, and playing the guitar. He isknown for his great attitude and can attack anychallenge head-on. His Queen runs the castlewhile he is a licensed boat captain. They are par-ents of Princess Amy Renee, 9, Princess Allie

Mia, 6 and Prince Bode Roy, 4. They also havea Pug named Pooter and a cat named Snowflake.

All hailed Queen Gaea VII and King ChaosVII as the presentation came to an end for the2013 Royal Court and the Ball began! Music wasprovided by Southern DJ Productions.

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.

Duke and Duchess of the BlackPearl, Jack & Colleen Desselle

Duke and Duchess of theEmpress, John & Patice Michon

Duke and Duchess of the SeaCliff, Jeff & Jennifer Sherrill

Dule and Duchess of the MorningStar, Jason & Joy Plauche


The Krewe de Charlie Siouxwas sanctioned by the State ofLouisiana in 1977. That same year,Lake Charles and Sioux City, Iowaofficially became Sister Cities in atwinning ceremony in Lake Charles.Members consist of Sioux City andLake Charles residents. Each cityhas its own Krewe president andball captain. Sioux City memberscome to Lake Charles for MardiGras and Lake Charles memberstravel to Sioux City the week of JulyFourth and bring Mardi Gras toSiouxland in the form of a Gala fea-turing beautiful costumes withlarge, feathered backpieces that aretrucked in from Lake Charles, alongwith a parade and a Zydeco concert.

The purpose of the Krewe is topromote Mardi Gras and share cul-tural experiences as well as developtourism in each city. This MardiGras season completes the 18th yearthat Krewe members have traveledback and forth between the twocities, and the 15th year of presenta-tion of a King and Queen and Court.

This year’s gala was “CharlieSioux Roars into the Twenties.” King

Charles XIIII, Marty Pottebaum,and Queen Siouxland XIIII, KandyPottebaum, of Sioux City, Iowa, wel-comed and shared a toast with thenew King XV, Gary Billedeaux, andQueen XV, Kala Billedeaux, of theLake Charles area. King and QueenXV were presented dressed in beau-tiful baby blue, silver and white cos-tumes, reminiscent of the dress ofgentlemen and “flapper-styled” dressof the 1920s era. They wowed thecrowd by dancing across the stagewith a Cajun flair to a medley of20’s music.

In true Charlie Sioux-style, thecostumes and backpieces of theCourt and Captains were based onthe “not so obvious” events of thedecade of the 1920s.

The Captains and Court wereintroduced by Sioux Citynews/radio celebrity Bruce Miller,who dressed the part as…youguessed it, a 1920s news/radio com-mentator. The Sioux City Captain,Julie Peterson, was costumed as“Mae West” and did a saucy littleMae West number that got thecrowd in the spirit. The Honorary

Sioux City Captain, Julie Peterson Honorary Lake Charles Captain, Marcella Miller-Beard Duchess of Competition, Marie Sterns

Queen XV, Kala Billedeaux, and King XV, Gary Billedeaux

Duchess of Prohibition, Tammy Miller-Beard


Lake Charles Captain, Marcella Miller-Beard,was costumed as a 1920s gangster representingChicago’s St. Valentine’s Day Massacre ofChicago of that era.

Duke of Whimsy, Danny Hasha, represent-ed some of the first movie cartoons such as“Steamboat Willie,” “Felix the Cat,” and “BettyBoop.” The Duke of Justice, Marty Pottebaum,represented the FBI and the invention of the firstlie-detector test; Duke of Opulence, RichardKleinberg, represented the first Oscars presenta-tion; and Duke of Adventure, Gary Sterns, rep-resented the first Trans-Atlantic flight.

The Duchess of Delight, Bernice Zachary,represented a 1920s nightclub singer and theDuchess of Suffrage, Kandy Pottebaum, repre-sented women who won the right to vote. Theywere followed by the Duchess of Competition,Marie Sterns, who was costumed as an Olympicice skater and represented the first WinterOlympics; and Duchess of Prohibition, TammyMiller-Beard, costumed as a moonshiner with astill in the woods and represented, of course, theage of prohibition.

At the conclusion of the Gala, King andQueen XV, Gary and Kala Billedeaux and theCaptains and Court were reintroduced. Theyfilled the stage in splendid colorful, featheredcostumes and commenced to throw beads to thedelighted audience. The Krewe de Charlie SiouxGala was held in the magnificent, fully restoredOrpheum Theatre, originally built in 1927 as alarge, opulent vaudeville and moving picturehouse… how appropriate, don’t you think?!

Everyone is welcome to participate in Krewede Charlie Sioux events. For information, pleasecontact George Jacobson at 436-8902.

Duke of Adventure, Gary Sterns

Duke of Whimsy, Danny HashaDuke of Justice, Marty Pottebaum

Duchess of Delight, Bernice Zachary Duchess of Suffrage, Kandy Pottebaum Duke of Opulence, Richard Kleinberg


Krewe de Classique celebratedtheir 26th year on Saturday, January26 at Habibi Temple, with the theme,“Classique Honors African Ameri-cans at The Oscars.”

Classique opened their ball withthe presentation of colors by theWashington-Marion High SchoolJunior ROTC. The national anthemwas sung by local vocalist Mrs.Cynthia Williams. A tribute wasmade to past year’s Queen ClassiqueXXV, Eula “Mae Mae” Hanchett,followed by her court. Mistresses ofCeremonies were Jackie Semien ofKFDM TV-Channel 6 News andCarol Collins of Phillips 66.

Four young ladies made theirdebut to society for 2013. They were:Alexis Danielle Alexander,My’Ocean Ja’Dawn Stagg-Fuller,Megan I. Hardy and BreannaThomas.

The Krewe honored AfricanAmerican actors and actresses from

Hattie McDaniel to Halle Berry andSidney Poitier to Denzel Washing-ton. Krewe members dressed as vari-ous actors and actresses and per-formed skits from Oscar-winningmusicians such as Isaac Hayes andPrince. There was a grand finale tothe theme song from the movieHustle and Flow, “Hard Out Herefor a Pimp.”

Krewe Captain FrederickRideaux and Consort NellieRideaux played dual roles as theynot only represented the Krewe asCaptain and Consort, but also repre-sented the Best Actors and Actressesin a Supporting Role.

The Duke and Duchess of BestActor and Actresses were Wilbertand Kayla Lewis. Both natives ofLake Charles, they have three sons.Kayla is an educator with LakeCharles Charter Academy andWilbert is a 23-year employee ofCITGO Petroleum. They are active

members in their community andare both members of the localNAACP branch.

The Duchess of music was BettyCarrier. Betty is a charter member ofKrewe de Classique and is employedby the Calcasieu Parish SchoolBoard. She has performed in localBroadway shows and has been a“Belly Buttons” dancer for years.

The highlight of the evening wasthe presentation of King and QueenClassique XXVI, RaymondRideaux, Sr. and Theresa Charles.

Queen Theresa is employed atBaton Rouge Community College.She is a life member of Delta SigmaTheta Alumnae in Lake Charles anda member of Immaculate Heart ofMary Catholic Church in LakeCharles and St. Francis Xavier inBaton Rouge. She is an 18-yearmember of the Krewe and served asDuchess on the Royal Court duringthe 16th annual ball. Queen Theresa

was assisted by her niece Madison.King Raymond Rideaux, Sr. has

been a member of the Krewe formore than 10 years and has workedwith the float committee for sixyears, serving as float chairperson forthe last two. He served on the RoyalCourt for his brother King Randolphand Queen Monica Rideaux. He hasbeen employed by the Port of LakeCharles for 42 years and is a seasonticketholder with the New OrleansSaints.

The King is the father ofRaymond Jr. and Ramica RideauxGuidry. He has one grandson andone granddaughter and is awaitingtwin grandchildren this summer.The King’s son-in-law, MarlonGuidry, served as his attendant.

After the new King and Queenwere crowned and made their royalproclamation, Krewe members start-ed the party with the Second Lineled by band “Hotline.”

Top: King Classique XXVI,Raymond Rideaux, Sr.

Bottom: Queen Classique XXVI,Theresa Charles.

Top: The Duke and Duchess, Wilbert and Kayla Lewis.

Bottom left: Duchess Betty Carrier.

Bottom right: Krewe Captain FrederickRideaux and Consort Nellie Rideaux


The Krewe of Cosmos held theirMardi Gras Pageant and Ball onSaturday, February 9. The Pageant washeld at the Sulphur High School audito-rium and the Ball was held afterwards atthe Lake Charles Civic Center. Thetheme was “Once Upon A Time.”

Representing Little Red RidingHood and the Huntsman were DukeBruno de LaSalle and Duchess LePetitChaperon Rouge, John and LindaGuilbeaux. A Sulphur resident, Johngraduated from St. Louis Catholic HighSchool in 1974 and attended McNeeseState University for business manage-ment. He has been a financial advisorfor Edward Jones Investments for thepast 14 years. He enjoys traveling, music,dancing, playing video games, watchingmovies, spending time with his kids andgrandkids and has umpired baseball forover 15 years. He is very much involvedwith of Our Lady Prompt SuccorCatholic Church. Born in Eunice, Lindagraduated from Eunice High School in1975. She graduated from Sowela in1980 as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Amember of the National Federation ofLPNs, she is now retired and enjoys tak-ing care of her grandchildren. Her hob-bies include traveling, working out,mowing the lawn, going to the moviesand spending time with family. She isalso very involved in Our Lady ofPrompt Succor Catholic Church.

John and Linda have been Krewemembers for two years and participatedin Jesters last year. They have threedaughters, Amy (32) Alisha (29), andStephanie (25), and four grandchildren,Emily and Madelyn Felice, and Joan andCharlotte Landry. Another Landry babyis due in May.

Representing Hansel and Gretelwere Duke Beau Dortchen andDuchess Paisley Finette, Keith andMonica Guidry. Keith graduated fromSulphur High School in 1976 andobtained a Bachelor of Science degree inMathematical Statistics from McNeese.He is a Certified Teacher for theCalcasieu Parish School Board, and hastaught math at Westlake High School for24 years. He loves everything aboutbaseball, including statistics, collectingmemorabilia and attending games, espe-cially his grandchildren’s games.Duchess Monica graduated fromSulphur High School in 1978 andreceived a Bachelor of Science degree in

Accounting from McNeese StateUniversity in 1982. An inactive CertifiedPublic Accountant, she has been theaccounting supervisor at WestlakeChemical for the past 10 years. Sheenjoys gardening, watching TurnerClassic Movies, traveling, attending hergrandchildren’s ballgames and spendingtime with family and friends.

Keith and Monica have been in theKrewe for two years and attend OurLady of Prompt Succor CatholicChurch. They have two daughters, JoyPlauche (33) and Natalie Guidry (26)who lives in Oregon. They have fourgrandchildren: Alexis (16), Ethan (9),Grayson (6) and Cooper (2).

Representing Snow White and theSeven Dwarfs were Duke DexterMoonbeam and Duchess BellaVenezia, Justin Brewton and MorganLeDoux. A Sulphur native, Justin grad-uated from Sulphur High School in2000 and received a degree in processtechnology from Sowela in 2003. He hasbeen employed by Lyondell Basell foreight years. His hobbies include hunt-ing, fishing, and enjoying good timeswith family and friends and his strangecur dog, Smoke. He has been a Krewemember for three years.

Morgan graduated from SulphurHigh School in 2007 and recently grad-uated from McNeese with a degree ingeneral studies. She is a sales associateat Gordon’s Drug Store and enjoys shop-ping, playing soccer, reading, dancingand spending time with family and herschnauzer. She attends St. Theresa’sCatholic Church. Morgan is the daugh-ter of current Krewe member ToniLeDoux, and great granddaughter of thelate Tony and Iona Trosclair, the 1955King and Queen of Cosmos. Morganhas been in the Krewe for three yearsand a Jester for two years.

Representing Captain Hook andTinker Bell were Duke Ravello Mystereand Duchess Tanna Campaniellio, Joshand Julie Domingue. Josh is fromSulphur and attended Sowela, where hestudied plant processing. He has beenemployed by Turner Industries for thelast 10 years. He enjoys fishing, hunting,scuba diving, and camping and is a 3rdDegree Knight with the Knights ofColumbus. A Sulphur native, Julie is a2001 graduate of Sulphur High School.She graduated from McNeese StateUniversity in 2005 with a Bachelor’s

degree in General Studies, and obtainedher Masters of Art in TeachingSecondary Education in 2010. She teach-es 6th grade English at W.W. LewisMiddle School and was chosen Teacherof the Month for the City of Sulphur inOctober 2011. She enjoys reading, danc-ing, shopping, vacationing, spendingtime at her parent’s camp and playingwith her nieces, Madelyn and Avery.

The couple attends St. Theresa’sCatholic Church, where they are bothinvolved with the ACTS Missions. Joshhas been a Krewe member for threeyears; Julie, eight. She chaired the Jesterscommittee in 2012, and has choreo-graphed and performed in the Jesterdance for the past seven years. Julie andJosh have one daughter – Adele Marie, 9months, and will celebrate their thirdwedding anniversary in June.

Alice in Wonderland’s Mad Hatter,Captain J. Buster Neville, was SteveBaker. Steve was born and raised inKinder and is a 1981 Kinder HighSchool graduate. He received a dieselmechanic degree from Sowela and hasbeen employed by Sulphur GlassCompany for the last 25 years. His hob-bies include hunting, fishing, golf, videogames and raising chickens. Steve is amember of Our Lady of Prompt SuccorChurch. He has been an active memberof the Krewe for the past 23 years, chair-ing various committees. He and his wife,Yolanda Meyers Baker, were on Court in1991 and were King and Queen in 1998.They have been married for 26 years.Their daughter, Elizabeth Anne, is ateacher at Frasch Elementary and theirson, John Stephen, is a junior at MSU.

King Stephan Charles Leopold andQueen Suzanne ElizabethMerriweather were Steve and VickiHolder. King Steve has lived in Sulphursince the age of 5. The son of the lateO.C. and Marie Holder, he graduatedfrom Sulphur High School in 1971 andreceived his BS in Criminal Justice fromMcNeese. Steve has owned the Holder

Agency for the past 11 years and hasbeen in the insurance business for over25 years. His hobbies include remodelingand traveling. Queen Vicki is fromCrosby, ND and has lived in Sulphursince the age of 2. She is the daughter ofWinslow Smith and the late SuzanneSmith. Vicki is a 1971 Sulphur HighSchool graduate and received her BA inEarly Childhood Education fromMcNeese. Now retired, she taught at RWVincent Elementary for 23 years. Shecurrently subs for the Calcasieu ParishSchool Board System and fills in at theHamilton House. Vicki is also a foundingmember of the Krewe of Athena.

The King and Queen have been inthe Krewe for 22 years. The King hasbeen a Walker and chaired the Float,Crawfish and Parade Committees, whilethe Queen has chaired the Pages,Brochures, Historian and Merchandis-ing committees. Together, they havebeen on Court, entertained with theJesters, greeted with the Pages andshowed their creativity with Ball andPageant decorations. Steve and Vickihave two children, Jason Holder (36)and Ashleigh Holder Schexnider (34).They have two grandchildren, Chloe’Elizabeth Schexnider, (8 )and GageSchexnider, (13). The King and Queenare members of Maplewood UnitedMethodist Church.

King and Queen, Steve and Vicki Holder

Captain Steve Baker

Duke and Duchess, John and Linda Guilbeaux Duke and Duchess, Keith and Monica Guidry Duke and Duchess, Justin Brewton and Morgan LeDoux Duke and Duchess, Josh and Julie Domingue


Krewe Déjà Vu du Monde heldtheir 24th Annual Ball on January 12at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Thetheme was “A Night at the Museum”and a fabulous night it was!

Master of Ceremonies GayleMarshall presented the hard-work-ing board of directors: President

Tom Price, Vice President JulieBabineaux, Secretary/TreasurerLauren de Albuquerque, and KreweReps Jenny Gill and Gayle Cline.

The Royal Court of 2012, Kingand Queen XXIII Scott andRhonda Folds and Duke andDuchess Mike and Susan McHughmade their final promenade. Andthen the fun really began!

Captain Phil de Albuquerquecame out swinging a big flashlightas the Security Guard. Captain Philwas born and raised in Michigan,graduated from Michigan StateUniversity with an engineeringdegree, and then became aRingling Brothers Barnum andBailey Circus clown! He and hiswife Lauren moved to LakeCharles nine years ago fromBoston and are the publishersof The Jambalaya News. Philalso owns Chateau duCalcasieu Event Center andParty Rentals and is a contrac-tor at Fort Polk. He is the

president of the Children’sMuseum board, sits on the

boards of BigBrothers/Big Sisters

and the Family andYouth Council and

is a member of

the Buccaneers of Lake Charles. Heand his wife have been involved incat rescue since coming to LakeCharles. They were King and Queenof the Krewe in 2008. Since Phil isalways out and about and clowningaround, you can find him hosting“What’s Happening Lake Charles!”on Fox-29 every Thursday.

Krewe Mascot Julie LynetteBabineaux followed as a verynaughty Marie Antoinette. Julie is theKrewe VP and is the daughter ofSigmund and Yvonne Babineaux ofOberlin. Her son, A1C Justin KyleChatman, is stationed at Scott AFB inIllinois and recently became engaged.Julie is employed by the CalcasieuParish Police Jury and attendsImmaculate Conception Cathedral.

Krewe Lieutenant Dr. BruceMaerhofer was a scurvy pirate upto no good. Aaaarrrgh! Bruce hailsfrom New York State and attend-ed the University of Missouri inKansas City. He and his wifeMonika came to the PelicanState 22 years ago. He is alicensed chiropractor inLake Charles, and is alsoa member of Krewe deLa Famille, theBuccaneers and thePelican Coast. He and

Monika were King and Queen of theKrewe in 2005.

Lauren de Albuquerque por-trayed the doomed aviatrix AmeliaEarhart, but it seems we’ve discov-ered exactly why her plane wentdown! Lauren was born and raisedin Boston and graduated magnacum laude from Emmanuel Collegewith a degree in communications.She and her husband Phil moved to

Krewe Mascot, Julie Babineaux Krewe Captain, Phil de Albuquerque

2013 King and Queen of Krewe Dejá Vu du Monde, Terry and Tina Thibodeaux


Lake Charles in 2003. She was themanaging editor of The Times ofSouthwest Louisiana beforebecoming the publisher and execu-tive editor of The Jambalaya News.She is a member of the Krewe de laFamille and The Buccaneers, andsits on the board of the Family andYouth Council. She and her hus-band Phil have been married foralmost 13 years and live with abunch of lovable felines and oneScottish Terrier. They were Kingand Queen in 2008. Lauren lovesgood food, hanging at the MonkeyBar with the Kingdom and every-thing life has to offer in SouthwestLouisiana.

Cindy Price portrayed theIndian Guide Sacajawea, who car-ried a little something in her sack tomake Lewis and Clarke very happyon their expedition. The daughterof Dr. and Mrs. Henry C. Blount ofAlexandria, she is married to KrewePresident Dr. Thomas H. Price,DDS and they live in Moss Bluff.They have two children, MichelleElliott of West Monroe and Clayton

Price of Moss Bluff. They recentlycelebrated the birth of their firstgrandchild, Caleigh Anne. Cindygraduated from NatchitochesCentral High School and attendedMcNeese State University. She is alicensed insurance agent and hasworked for Louisiana Companiesfor 35 years as a senior commercialaccount manager. She enjoys cook-ing, gardening, boating and spend-ing time with friends and family.She and her husband are membersof the Lake Charles Buccaneers andthe Calcasieu Boat Club. They arealso members of First UnitedMethodist Church where she hasbeen the Acolyte Coordinator formany years. Cindy and Tom areoriginal members of Krewe Déjà vuDu Monde, and they were King andQueen in 1998.

George Jacobson was the evilPharaoh who wanted to plunderthe pyramids! Originally fromViborg, South Dakota , he studiedmusic and art education at theUniversity of South Dakota. He wasa manager at Wells Fargo Bank in

Sioux City, where he joined theSister City Krewe, the Krewe deCharlie Sioux. After vacationing inLake Charles during Mardi Gras fortwo years, he decided to relocatehere in 2007. He currently lives inWestlake and works for Jeff DavisBank in Lake Charles. He’s thetreasurer of Krewe de Charlie Siouxand the owner of Jacobson Designs.In his spare time, he enjoys floatingin the pool, visiting with friends,painting, making Mardi Gras cos-tumes, visiting his family andfriends back home in South Dakotaand Iowa, and has appeared onstage at ACTS Theater.

The 2013 King and Queen ofKrewe Dejá Vu du Monde wereTerry and Tina Thibodeaux repre-senting the last Tsar and Tsarina ofRussia, Nicholas II and Alexandra.King Terry was born in LakeCharles. He obtained a Bachelor ofArts from LSU and a law degreefrom Washington and LeeUniversity in Lexington, Virginia.Terry is a partner in the firm ofFrohn & Thibodeaux. Queen Tina

was born in Hof, Germany andgrew up and completed her educa-tion in business management in theNürnberg (Nuremberg) area. Shemoved to Lake Charles in 1994 andworks as a pharmaceutical salesrepresentative for PDI Inc.

Terry and Tina have been mar-ried for 15 years and have threechildren, Charlene Aguillard,Steven Thibodeaux, and MichaelTiffany. They love spending timewith their two grandchildren, AlexAguillard 9, and Drew Aguillard, 3.You can find Terry and Tina mostfall weekends cheering at LSU foot-ball games. They also enjoy cook-ing, traveling, reading, and hangingout with friends and their three res-cue dogs, Alice, Lucy and Penny.

Following the Presentation, theKrewe partied to “The Issue” fromBaton Rouge. Sound and musicwere supplied by Deep SouthProductions and photography wasby Victor Monsour.

Krewe Lieutenant, Dr. Bruce Maerhofer Amelia Earhart, Lauren de Albuquerque

Sacajawea, Cindy Price The Pharaoh, George Jacobson


Krewe de Carnivale celebrat-ed the cast of characters from thepopular long running televisionshow, Saturday Night Live fortheir annual Mardi Gras MegaParty at Contraband Room at theLake Charles Civic Center. Dueto the short Mardi Gras Season,the Krewe held their annual cele-bration on January 5, one dayprior to Twelfth Night and thestart of the Mardi Gras season

A costume-optional maskedball, guests and members aliketransformed themselves into clas-sic SNL characters such as “TheSpartan Cheerleaders,”“Coneheads,” and “RoseanneRosanadana.” For the festiveevening, guests passed a stylizedcity skyline to arrive at a televi-sion studio featuring a marqueeannouncing the evening’s event.Upon entering the soundstage,guests discovered a whimsicallydecorated ballroom.

Starting off the evening was avideo introduction modeled afterthe classic opening montage ofSaturday Night Live. BallCaptain Jackie Schuldes, anative of Lake Charles, welcomedmembers and guests. Jackie andher husband Paul are the owners

of Uniformly Fit on Ryan Street.They have been involved inMardi Gras in SouthwestLouisiana for over 20 years.Jackie portrayed the Celebrityguest host for the evening, “Fi FiMahoney,” dressed in an elegantred carpet-style gown and arhinestone mask. She thenopened the festivities of theevening with the introduction ofthe King and Queen of Comedy,Leland Carlton and TiffanyMesh Miller.

King Leland, a native ofFranklin Louisiana,is the son of JantileLadoucer Carltonand the late Mr.Leland “Cotton”Carlton. He hasworked as a managerfor a major retailer forover 25 years. QueenTiffany was born inLake Charles and is anagent with thePrudential Elite RealEstate Agency and aregional supervisor forSpirit Halloween Stores.She is married to PaulMiller and they live inSulphur with their children

Taylor and Mary. The RoyalCouple was attired in classic for-mal ball dress with glittering regalcollars of black velvet, silver bro-cade and rhinestones. Both worebejeweled laser cut metallic masksto conceal their true identities.

Krewe de Carnivale has twotraditions unique to the area.First, throughout the evening,Krewe members take to the stageto periodically whip the partycrowd into a frenzy with theirparade-style

bead tosses. The other traditioncaps off the evening by the “Loveis in the Air Napkin Toss,” whereguests are invited to throw thou-sands of paper napkins in the airto the sound of the disco classic“Love is in the Air.” A fun timewas had by all presented byKrewe de Carnivale!

King and Queen Carnivale; Leland Carlton and Tiffany Mesh Miller, Ball Captain Jackie Schuldes (center)

Krewe de Carnivale 2013


Krewe de l’Ecore held its 15thannual Mardi Gras Ball on Fri.,February 1, at Habibi Temple in LakeCharles. The Krewe’s theme for theevening was “Candy Coated Ball.”Ryan Boyd of Bolton Ford wasMaster of Ceremonies. Entertainmentwas provided by Clay Rougeau, withphotography by Rod RodriquezPhotography.

Board officers are Russell andShelly McNabb, David andAmanda Williams, Darren andDonna Guillory, and Shawn andBrandie Croxdale.

Debutantes for the evening wereHaley Brooke Glass, daughter ofJason and Liz Glass of Moss Bluffand Brooke Marie Bertrand,daughter of Mike and Tina Bertrandof Moss Bluff.

The celebrations began with theGrand Duchess of the Candy Shop,Bridgette Murphy, representing thetheme of the Court as a Candy Girl.The Grand Duchess resides in MossBluff with her husband of five years,Nick Murphy. The couple has twochildren, Brittany and Blake. TheGrand Duchess is a stay-at-homemom and is a member of the FirstPentecostal Church in Lake Charles.

Randy and Victoria Renfrowreigned as the King Willie Wonkaand his Queen Golden Ticket.They were preceded in the presen-tation by their daughter Alanna andcousin Jade Goodrich, who carriedthe Royal Krewe banner.

The King and Queen have beenmarried two years and have twochildren, Alanna and Jackson, andlive in Sulphur. The King isemployed by IGT as a CasinoServices Field Tech, and the Queenis employed by Delta Downs as asecretary.

Larry Huber Sr. andMary Catherine (Cathy)Huber appeared as The Dukeand Duchess Tootsie Roll repre-senting the famous Tootsie Rollcandy. The Hubers reside in MossBluff and have been married 29years. They have two sons, Chadand Larry, Jr. and two grandchil-dren, Emma and Baylee. TheDuke and Duchess are co-owners of Control Concepts,LLC and attend St.Theodore’s Catholic Church.

Representing the Dukeand Duchess of CottonCandy were Joseph andColette Cook, dressed asblue and pink cotton candy.The Cooks reside in Moss Bluffand were recently married inOctober, creating a family withtwo girls, Megan Borja and KaylahCook. Joseph is an electrician atW.R. Grace and Colette is a teacherat Lagrange High School. Thecouple attends Moss BluffBible Church.

Randy and Victoria Renfrow,King Willie Wonka and his

Queen Golden Ticket

Bridgette Murphy, GrandDutchess of The Candy Shop

Larry Huber Sr. and Cathy Huber,Duke and Dutchess Tootsie Roll

Joseph and Colette Cook, Duke and Dutchess Cotton Candy


Krewe de La Famille celebratedits 34th annual Carnival Ball onFebruary 2 in the Lake Charles CivicCenter Coliseum with the theme ofFamille’s “Under the Big Top.” Thespectacular presentation featuredsongs, skits, and costumes repre-senting the Circus with RingmasterCaptain Johnny “JJ” Johnson andhis lovely Co-Captain Brigitte lead-ing and taking charge of the BigTop’s traditional three rings. Asalways, the Krewe de la Famille cos-tumes were glittering and vibrantand filled with bright colors.

The Captains “rocked the floor”as they entered on their Circus ele-phant!!

Dale Mann served as Master ofCeremonies, with Anne Monlezundirecting the evening’s presentation.The U.S. Naval Sea Cadets,Chennault Division, under the com-mand of LTJG Chadwick A. Lejune,posted the colors of our country.Ms. Natachia Coleman Guidry sang

our National Anthem,with dance music pro-

vided by the GTOs andD-Street Brass.

The 2012 Famille“Birds of Paradise”

Royal Court, Kingand Queen

Famille XXXIII, Doctor Charles andKaren Woodard, and Dukes andDuchesses Kirk and Gay Pellerinand Raymond and Gwen Smithreturned for their last promenade.

The Famille’s beautiful debu-tantes were proudly presented onthe arms of their escorts. They wereMiss Emma Claire Fontenotescorted by her grandfather EugeneFontenot, Miss Jenna ElizabethHebert escorted by her father Dr.Edward Joseph Hebert, MissMorgan Ann Miller escorted by herfather Jack Martin Miller and MissCayley Rodrigue escorted by herfather Clay Rodrigue.

Reigning over the evening’sGrand Ball was His Majesty KingFamille XXXIV Eugene Fontenotand his lovely Queen, ThelmaRena Guillory Fontenot.

Their royal attire was of import-ed Lyons velvet embellished withsequins and Austrian crystalaccents. Their large feathered collarsand matching mantels highlightedthe theme of the Ball, “Under TheBig Top.”

The Royal Couple are chartermembers of Krewe de la Famille andserved 30 years as members of theBoard. Both are Kinder natives. KingGene is a graduate of the Universityof LA at Lafayette and is retired fromthe Air Force with the rank of majorhaving served as a jet fighter pilotand a flight Instructor. He servedwith the reserve unit in New Orleansto complete his 20 years.

Queen Thelma is a graduate ofFenton High School and CharityHospital School of Nursing where

King Famille XXXIV EugeneFontenot and his lovely Queen,Thelma Rena Guillory Fontenot


she received her R.N. degree. She taught nursingat Sowela Technical College and retired after 22years. The Royal Couple has been married for 56years and are the parents of Genia, Danielle, andRoderick and four grandchildren: Jillian and AliHay and Emma Claire and George PhillipFontenot. They are past owners of Shakey’s PizzaParlor, The Premises, South Inn Restaurant, andfor 35 years, Gene Fontenot Construction Co.

Their Majesties attendants were MastersAndrew Rutecki and Hunter Dawdy grandchil-dren of Krewe members Mrs. Marilyn and Mr.Eddy Dawdy. Princesses were Misses MollyRutecki and Gabriella Moss, grandchildren ofKrewe members Mr. and Mrs. Dawdy and Mrs.Sondra and Mr. Roland Moss.

Representing the Masters of the SavageBeasts was the Duke of Lion Tamers, BrianNicholas Johnson, and the Duchess of theTigers, Neoma Catherine Stephens “Kitty”Johnson.

LTC (Ret.) Brian Johnson is a native of LakeCharles and graduated from McNeese StateUniversity. He was a commissioned 2ndLieutenant in the US Army and served as a pla-toon leader, company and battalion operationsofficer, company commander and executive offi-cer and aide de camp to the US Army Europedeputy commanding general.

Duke Brian attended the resident US ArmyCommand and General Staff College in FortLeavenworth, Kansas, where he earned his master’sof science degree. He was then deployed toAfghanistan in support of Operation EnduringFreedom. Upon his return, hen was assigned to theintelligence staff at NATO Headquarters inBelgium. Upon his discharge, Brian and Kitty estab-lished a household in Lake Charles. Brian is cur-rently employed in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Duchess Kitty is a native of Lake Charles, andattended LSU. She has worked for a British artfirm and has dedicated her time to service withmilitary family and community volunteer groups,including assistance to foreign student officersand their families from Greece and Saudi Arabia.While stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kittydesigned, created and commissioned the USArmy Command and General Staff College andBuffalo Soldiers commemorative basket.

In 2011, Brian and Kitty retired from activemilitary. Kitty continues to stay involved in localcommunity events while Brian works overseas.Brian and Kitty are members of the HumaneSociety of the United States, the American Societyfor the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, BestFriends Animal Society and the Born FreeFoundation of the United Kingdom. Brian andKitty love to travel and plan to go on a safari inSouth Africa this summer.

The Johnsons ask us to never forget the serviceof our brave men and women, to include theirfamilies, serving bravely for our nation.

Representing the dramatic and daring is theDuke of the Flying Trapeze, Doctor. JohnSamuel Van Hoose, and the lovely and gracefulDuchess of the Flying Trapeze, Staci Young VanHoose.

Duke John is a 1985 graduate of MoreheadState University and a 1989 medical school gradu-ate from the University of Kentucky. A native ofMorehead Kentucky, John’s residency was at theMedical College of Virginia. He is now the CEOof the Pathology Laboratory. He has been award-ed the Consumer Research Council award as oneof America’s top pathologists and has been namedone of the “Best Doctors in America” for the pastthree years. John enjoys skiing, travel, reading,ancient history, and University of Kentucky bas-ketball. John is a member of many professionalorganizations at the local, state and national level.

Duchess Staci is a native of Lake Charles, agraduate of Westlake High and is a stay at homemom. After attending McNeese, she graduatedfrom Acadiana Technical College with a Degreein data processing and medical transcription. Amember of the Calcasieu Parish MedicalSociety Alliance, Staci enjoys skiing, travel,reading, and volunteering at Barbe and OurLady Queen of Heaven.

John and Staci have three children.Alexandra is at LSU, Brenna at Barbe HighSchool and Jack at Our Lady Queen ofHeaven. They are also members of the SaleStreet Baptist Church.

A special President’s Recognition Awardwas presented to Mrs. Amy and Mr. R.J.Grimes for their past 30 years of dedicatedservice with the ball production of the Krewe.

The Royal Entertainment for the gala eventwas provided by Miss Hallie Kleckley and TheLSU Tiger Girls.

The Ball planning and execution was led byKrewe President Anne Monlezun, Krewe ChiefExecutive Lee J. Monlezun, the Captains, andboard members Jim and Diann Manning, Chuckand Karen Henderson, Michael and NatalieHayes, Bob and Lydia McLemore, and boardmembers and Krewe reps Steve and KellyHagood. Thanks also go out to all in the Krewewho participated in decorating, skits and support.

The circus act skits included Krewe members:Curtis and Dr. Emma Vincent, Gay and Dr.Eddie Hebert, Roby and Dr. Syd Dyer, Mariaand Tim O’Dowd, Kristen Hebert Hannaman,Ricky &and Tricia Guidry, Doug and AdeleHamer, Jim and Rhonda Kleckley, HalleyKleckley, Linda and Brian Daigle, Beth and EdNeeley, Chris Bergeron, Yvette and RobertBradley, Bruce and Monika Maerhofer, Mikeand Susan McHugh, Don and Janelle Vincent,Al Ellender, and James Tilly.

Top Picture: Duke of Lion Tamers,Brian Nicholas Johnson, and theDuchess of the Tigers, NeomaCatherine Stephens “Kitty” Johnson.Bottom Picture: Duke and Duchessof the Flying Trapeze, Doctor JohnSamuel Van Hoose andStaci Young Van Hoose.


The Krewe of Good Times held its secondannual ball on Feb. 2 in the Ballroom at the Isleof Capri Casino. “Good Times HollywoodPremiere” was this year’s star-studded theme.

Members and guests were greeted byPaparazzi as they made their red carpetentrance for their Hollywood premiere. The redcarpet was lined with Hollywood Walk of Famestars that depicted the names of the 12 foundingboard members. They were stopped and inter-viewed in front of the step and repeat VIP spon-sor wall, then entered the ballroom, which rep-resented the famous Hollywood Hills.

The Good Times Royal Court Presentationgot underway with the Captain of the Nightdancing to “Canned Heat” from the HollywoodMovie, Napoleon Dynamite.

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy wasour 2013 Captain, Bernadette LeBlanc.Bernadette, 28, is the daughter of the ever-famous Darrell and Jackie LeBlanc of Sulphur.When she isn’t starring in some Hollywoodfilm, she is working as the teller supervisor ofthe Maplewood Branch at Iberia Bank.Bernadette attends Our Lady of LaSaletteCatholic Church where she lectors and is the

coordinator for the Evangelization commit-tee. She enjoys spending time with her

17 nieces and nephews and herfriends and family. She

also loves to dance andkaraoke—usually afterone or two cocktails!

Bernadette is the Krewe treasurer and a found-ing board member.

Then came the premiere of Footloose, andthe Best Supporting Actor & Actress in aDance Film, the 2013 Duke & Duchess ofFootloose James and DeeDee O’Quain.

The O’Quains started their Hollywood lifetogether in September 1989 and chose to maketheir “career” official when they wed on Nov. 25,1995. James is the son of the famous actor andactress Frank and Wanda O’Quain. While Jeffrowaits for another movie deal to come along, his“agent,” R&R Construction, has kept himemployed for nine years. DeeDee has been aHollywood hairstylist for 11 years. This famouscouple has produced three young stars of theirown: Samantha, 21, Dancy, 19 and Frankie, 12.Aside from making beautiful movies, they enjoyhanging out with good friends and drinkingbeer. And just as the movie goes—Jeffro loves tocut loose and DANCE!

Nobody put Baby in the corner as the lastcouple danced to “The Time of My Life.” Theywere the Best Supporting Actor/Actress in aRomance, the 2013 Duke and Duchess OfDirty Dancing Jamie and Tracey Guillory.

These rising stars were both born inLouisiana, and raised inSulphur. After graduatingfrom his dramaticrole at

King and Queen of Good Times I, Chris and Bridgett Daigle


Sulphur High, Jamie remained local,“starring” in the construction indus-try, and then moving to car saleswhere he has been performing forabout 10 years. He has directed(coached) numerous local recre-ational football and tournamentbaseball teams, and even won theGolden Oscar of World with theWarriors in 2010. He has two verytalented young stars of his own,Kade, 22, and Whitney, 18. He iscurrently starring in a role withBayou State Auto in Lake Charles.

Tracey also graduated from herIMAX role at Sulphur High and thenbecame an “academy leader” by join-ing the Army, where she served fiveyears as a legal specialist. She is a vet-eran of Desert Shield/Storm. Traceyhas lived in Germany, Georgia andTennessee, and spent 10 years in theSan Francisco Bay area, where shestarred in her classical role in retailreal estate. Tracey has also producedtwo great stars of her own, Aaron, 28,

and Jamie, 27. She is currently per-forming in a Broadway play forSimon Property Group, where sheleases their two Louisiana malls.

This year’s Royal Family madetheir Cinematic entrance as the Kingand Queen of Good Times I werefinally revealed in their Blockbustermoment.

Her Royal Highness, Queen ofGood Times I Bridgett Daigle, 32,is the daughter of Academy awardwinners James and Ranell LaBovefrom Sulphur. The Queen got her bigbreak by attending Sulphur HighSchool, graduating in 1998. She wenton to star in numerous roles:Demmon Beauty School for twoyears, award-winning hairstylist for10 years, and the owner of ChicSalon for three years. Her mostrewarding role thus far has been pro-ducing, directing, and editing herthree young stars, Princess Kiele 10,Prince Ty, 8, and Princess Lea, 5.Bridgett enjoys spending time with

her family and friends and havingmany good times together.

His Royal Highness, King ofGood Times I, Chris Daigle, 43, isthe son of Oscar winners EugeneDaigle and Carol Simon. Chris alsogot his big break attending and grad-uating from Sulphur High School in1989. He has a lead role in heavyequipment operations with GravityDrainage and has acted in this filmfor 10 years. When Chris isn’t busystarring in Hollywood Blockbusters(work), he enjoys his “close up” timeplaying sports with his children.

Next, emcee Charlie Haldemanintroduced founding board membersBecky and Jeff Benoit, SherryAbshire, Laken Abshire, JoanneFontenot, Bernadette LeBlanc,Allison Malone, Jim and MiekeNatale, Eric and Mary Robinson,and Kim Sittig. They were followedby the current officers: PresidentBecky Benoit, Vice President SherryAbshire, Secretary Mary Robinson,

Treasurer Bernadette LeBlanc, andSergeant at Arms Joanne Fontenotand Laken Abshire. These busy boardmembers also hold chair and co-chairpositions: Summer Social chair isMary Robinson; Co-chair, EricRobinson; Halloween Bash chair isBernadette LeBlanc; Historical chair isJoanne Fontenot, Co-chair, LakenAbshire; Parade/Float chair is JeffBenoit. Co-chair, Chris Daigle; RoyalCourt chair is Kim Sittig; Ball chair isBecky Benoit, co-Chair, Mieke Natale.

The “stars” of the night were thenpresented their “Oscar” for their stel-lar performances. And the entireroyal court came together for theGrand Finale of “The Hand Jive.”Music was provided by Casey Pevetowith Northside Productions.

Krewe of Good Times was found-ed in 2011 by Jeff and Becky Benoitas a non-profit, social organizationwith the sole purpose of bringinggood friends together to celebrate lifeand good times year round.

2013 Duke and Duchess of Dirty Dancing, Jamie and Tracey Guillory

2013 Captain,Barnadette LeBlanc

2013 Duke and Duchess of Footloose,James and DeeDee O’Quain

Samantha RenaFontenot

Kylee BrookePerkins The 2013 Royal Court Nicholas

Lantier Sabrina LeeAnn

Benoit


The Krewe du Grande Boiscelebrated their 33rd annualMardi Gras ball at the HabibiTemple on February 8. The themewas “Changes in Latitude.”

The Captains of the CajunCruise Lines were Peggy andFrank Webb. Captain Peggy wasborn in Cologne, Germany andraised in Lubbock, Texas. Sheattended Texas Tech Universityand is employed as a nursing sup-port coordinator at SowelaTechnical Community College.Peggy enjoys time spent with fam-ily and good friends.

Captain Frank is from LakeCharles. He attended LSU-Shreveport and is a terminal man-ager at Phillips 66. He attends St.John Bosco Catholic Churchwhere he is a trustee and is also onthe pastoral council and thefinance committee. He is a mem-ber of The Greater Lake CharlesRotary Club, past president of theMoss Bluff Civic Club, past presi-dent of the Ward One EconomicDevelopment Board, and a mem-ber of the Calcasieu Parish

Planning and Zoning Board. Frankis also the current president ofKrewe du Grande Bois. He enjoysspending time with his family andfriends and cooking, reading andgardening. He has two sons,Matthew and wife Holly andJonathon and wife Kelly and a spit-fire of a granddaughter, Eva Leigh.

Frank and Peggy’s costumeswere made by Ruth and RoyWhite of Moss Bluff. Peggy wore awhite ship’s captain dress suit withgold and navy sequined embell-ishments with red accents andSwarovski crystals. Frank wore aship’s captain white tails tuxedowith gold and navy sequinedembellishments with red accentsand Swarovski crystals. Allappliqués were handmade. Thecollars were life preserver ringreplicas embellished with red, goldand navy sequins.

The Duke and Duchess ofJamaica were Kathy and ChrisOwen. Duke Chris is a graduate ofBarbe High School. He served inthe U.S. Navy and received a bach-elor’s of science degree from

King of Clear Blue Water / Queen of Sunshine, Becky and Dudley Pitre

Captains of the Cajun Cruise Lines, Peggy and Frank Webb.


Southern Illinois University. Chrishas been a senior systems adminis-trator and global helpdesk qualityassurance lead at WR Grace for 18years. His hobbies include boating,water-skiing, hiking and other out-door activities. Kathy and Chrishave three daughters, Grace, 14,Meredith, 11, and Sarah, 6.

Duchess Kathy is a graduate ofSt. Louis High School. She earneda bachelor’s degree at LSU and aMaster’s Degree in PastoralStudies from Loyola University.Kathy is the director of FamilyLife And Pro-Life Ministry for theDiocese of Lake Charles. Her hob-bies include spending time withtheir three daughters, singing andtraveling with the family.

Kathy’s green-sequined dresshad yellow and black ruffles rep-resenting the colors of theJamaican flag. Chris’ Baja-styleshirt was made of striped greenand black sequins with beach-style lounge pants.

The Duke and Duchess ofHaiti were John and JodiFontenot. They are the owners ofGulf Coast Carpet and DecoratingCenter in Lake Charles. Together

they have seven children andthree grandchildren.

Duchess Jodi, a Voodoo priest-ess, wore a purple and blackembellished one-shoulder gownwith a black cloak. Duke John, awitch doctor, wore a full-face latexmask with raffia trim, a grass skirtand a cape adorned with a limeand a coconut.

John and Jodi have been mem-bers of Krewe du Grande Bois forover 15 years and served as Kingand Queen in 2006. They love totravel and spend time with familyand friends.

The Duke and Duchess ofCuba were Ray and PhyllisBabin. Duke Ray graduated fromNicholls State University with aB.S. in business in 1980. DuchessPhyllis attended the University ofLouisiana. They have owned andoperated ASI Office Systems inLake Charles for 29 years. Theyhave a son, James, 34, who is mar-ried with two children, Emma andBonnie, and a married daughter,Laura, 24. Ray and Phyllis enjoytraveling in their motor home andspending time with their grand-children.

Ray was dressed as FidelCastro in an olive drab militaryuniform. Phyllis wore a long, col-orful Cuban dress with dominantcolors of fuchsia and turquoise.

The Duke and Duchess ofMexico were Gary and TracyMelancon. Duke Gary is a 1982graduate of Sam Houston HighSchool who has worked forBrance-Krachy Co. in Houston, asan outside sales person for 25years. Duchess Tracy is a 1984graduate of Sam Houston HighSchool and has worked as a regis-tered dental assistant for 20 years.Gary and Tracy have one daugh-ter, Megan, 28 and a son-in-law RJRomero, and a beautiful 8-month-old granddaughter, Zoe Romero.Gary enjoys hunting and fishing;Tracy enjoys running marathonsand reading. They both enjoyhanging out with family andfriends.

Gary was costumed as aMayan warrior in a brown tunicwith cape, headdress and spearwith red and turquoise accents.Tracy was a Mayan princess ingold, red and turquoise.

The 2013 King and Queen

were Becky and Dudley Pitre.King of the Clear Blue Waters wasDudley Pitre and the Queen of theSunshine was Becky Pitre. KingDudley graduated from WestlakeHigh School and Queen Beckygraduated from Sulphur HighSchool. They are the owners/man-agers of Lake Area Counter TopSupply. They have three daugh-ters, Dawn Billesbach, SandiSpadafora and Sarah Whatley andeight beautiful grandchildren,Andrew, Lily, Lainee, Kate,Allison, Lizzie, Avery Jane andMadeline. Their hobbies includeboating, target shooting andspending time with their grand-children. Dudley also enjoys play-ing the guitar, while Becky enjoyssinging and photography.

Dudley’s costume was a beau-tifully adorned blue tuxedo, whileBecky‘s fitted dress richly displayedall of the colors of the Caribbeanand was covered in aurora borealisrhinestones. Their collars matchedtheir outfits and highlighted theclear blue water and sunshine theywere representing.

The Duke and Duchess of Jamaica, Chris and Kathy Owen

The Duke and Duchess of Haiti,John and Jodi Fontenot

The Duke and Duchess of Cuba,Ray and Phyllis Babin

The Duke and Duchess of Mexico,Gary and Tracy Melancon


The Krewe of Illusions heldits 24th Annual Mardi GrasExtravaganza “Illusions goes tothe Oscars.” It kicked off at 7:30pm on February 9 in the RosaHart Theater. This year, Illusionsbrought to the stage the magnifi-cent images of a few Oscar win-ning movies. Illusion’s King andQueen and Royal Court paid trib-ute to many big screen legendsand iconic images spanning thelast 84-year history. The moviesstir our thoughts, memories, andemotions of our past and present.

As the Ball began, guestswere welcomed by music to setthe mood. Musical scores such as“Star Wars,” “The Sound of Music,”and “Somewhere my Love” filledthe theater to delight the RoyalGuests. After formal announce-ments and introductions by redcarpet commentators DesiDevereaux and Carla Chrisco, theKrewe Crest was lowered and setthe stage for the Extravaganza.

The opening number for theevening’s festivities began withaction on the red carpet underthe hillside “Hollywood” sign.Lady Gaga’s “Paparazzi” filled theair as the honored guests arrivedto attend the awards ceremony.Cameras flashed and theHollywood press corps foughtfor position to shoot the bestcandid photos. The audience wasgiven an up-close view of howchanges take place on the stagewith drops flying in and out,props and curtains being set, allwhile Forbidden Broadway’sversion of “Hype” was sung tothe Rent music score.

The stage was now set for anevening with Oscar and the pres-entation of the Royal Court. KingIllusions XXIII, Paul Klumpp,

and Queen Illusions XXIII,Karen Prejean both representedthe grander of Hollywood andSunset Boulevard.

The King wore a regal tuxedoof royal satin. All of his fabricswere in hues of lavender, blackand silver glittering withsequined and jeweled appliqués.He topped it all off with a vin-tage top hat of the period. KingPaul is a resident of Kinder andworks for Datrix ManufacturingCompany as their bookkeeperand accountant.

The Queen’s costume was along flowing dress of silver andgunmetal-colored satin accentedin hues of lavender, black and sil-ver glittering with sequined andjeweled appliqués. Queen Karenis a resident of Sulphur andworks for Bath and Body as theirstore manager.

The royal back pieces repre-sented the grand festivities ofopening night in Hollywood. Thesky lights and heavenly starswere ablaze in hues of white andsilver. A glittering camera reelmade a statement in the center,with film rolling and twisting inand about. Large architecturalshells flanked the sides in huesof white, silver and lavender. Anantique and shiny gold Oscartook a special place behind eachback piece. Both costumes werecompleted with ostrich plumesin white and black and an accentof lavender.

The Major Costumes of theRoyal Court were Jules “Bo”Benoit who represented the TheGodfather in dark broody colorsof black, red and white. CornellThomas represented Out ofAfrica with his nature and animal-inspired costume and garments

King Illusions XXIII Paul KlumppQueen Illusions XXIII Karen Prejean


of green, brown and orange.Brandrick Levy, representingAmadeus, brought Mozart backto life in hot pink and silver.Charitie Mancuso brought Gonewith the Wind to the stage. Herperiod hooped gown was royalblue satin, and she stole themoment as Scarlet. StephanieGros represented Silence of theLambs. The black lights on stagegave a very ominous glow to

Hannibal’s prison garb of orange,black and purple.

Every one loves a circus. Co-Captain Susan Clark and BallCaptain, Kevin Hodge conclud-ed the show representing theOscar- winning movie TheGreatest Show on Earth. Kevinwas the ringmaster extraordi-naire, and Susan worked hard try-ing to direct and corral the circusmisfits. Their costumes were

stunning in turquoise, lime greenand purple. His costume wasbuilt on the circus clown car tomake it mobile. After a glitch inhis plans, his costume finally wasput together on stage with somehelp from the frisky clowns. TheRoyal Promenade completed theshow with all members andmajor costumes brought back tothe stage one more time.

At the show’s conclusion, the

Krewe and their guests moved tothe exhibition hall where every-one danced to the rocking soundsof Laurel and the Electric Circus.

The production was support-ed by the board of directors andall of the members who work asperformers, dancers, singers,costume makers, prop designers,script writers, back stage handsand technical masters.

2013 Court PictureFrom left to right: Kevin Hodge, Ball Captain; Brandrick Levy; Paul Klumpp, King XXIII; Karen Prejean, Queen XXII; Jules “Bo” Benoit;

Charitie Mancuso; Stephanie Gros; Cornell Thomas


The 30th annual Krewe du LacMardi Gras Ball was held on Saturday,February 2, in the Buccaneer Room ofthe Lake Charles Civic Center. Masterof Ceremonies for the evening wasLee Peck.

Krewe du Lac is one of the originalcostume-only balls of Lake Charles.Partygoers came dressed in interest-ing, timely, and inventive creations.

The evening began with the for-mal introduction of the Captain ofKrewe du Lac, Colvin LeDoux.Colvin served as King Charles du LacXI and also served on the Krewe’sboard of directors for a number ofyears before stepping into the role ofCaptain, also serving as lieutenantunder co-founding Captain EmeritusJohn Thibodeaux. Captain Colvinand his wife, Pam, reside in LakeCharles. He strives to provide a lead-ership that guarantees that Krewe duLac is recognized as the true partyKrewe of Lake Charles.

Captain LeDoux bestowed specialrecognition on the current board ofdirectors: Wayne McVicker, CyndiLeJeune, Donnie Martin, SamReeves, Jim Barnatt, Bill Willis,Phyllis Guidry, Lisa Ange, ClariceLaFosse and Kim Caton. TheCaptain also recognized Krewe mem-ber Don Menard, who serves as thewebmaster for www.krewedulac.com,and Brenda Wilkinson and DebbieCarlin, who organize the RoyalCourt preparation and presentation.

Making their entrance for a lastgrand promenade was King Charlesdu Lac XXIX, Mike Rajewski andQueen Katherine XXIX, ClariceLaFosse.

The moment finally arrived forthe grand presentation of the 30thKrewe du Lac Court of Royalty. Thefirst to be introduced were DukeAndrew XXX, Nicholas “Nick”Kohrs and Duchess Angelica XXX,Celeste Kate Stephens.

Duke Andrew, who has been aKrewe member for five years, is anative of Sulphur and is currentlyliving in New Orleans, where he andhis wife, Colleen Barnatt Kohrs,attend St. Francis of Assisi CatholicChurch. Nick is the son of Joe andPaulette Kohrs of Sulphur. ThisRoyal Court member is currently anassociate attorney with the law firmof Lundy, Lundy, Soileau, and South,primarily working on BP oil spill liti-gation. He previously served as aJudicial Clerk for Judge ClaytonDavis with the 14th Judicial Courtand interned at the LA CapitolAssistance Center in New Orleans.

After graduating from SulphurHigh School and participating on the

soccer team, Nick then attendedMcNeese State University, where hewas actively involved in the StudentGovernment Association, serving asa senator and treasurer while beingan active member of Delta Sigma Pi.Before graduating with a Bachelor ofScience in 2007 with a double majorin business marketing and manage-ment, the Duke was selected to bethe 2005 Homecoming King. Hethen attended GeorgetownUniversity in Washington, DC; theFund for American Studies, and theBryce Harlow Institute on Businessand Government Affairs. Heacquired his Juris Doctorate in 2011with an additional receipt ofEnvironmental Law Certificate fromLoyola University New Orleans asthe LaNasa Green FoundationScholarship recipient.

Nick’s hobbies include golfing,running, cycling and trying out newbeers. More recently, he has becomea member of the 610 Stompers“Ordinary Men with ExtraordinaryMoves,” dancing at numerous eventsraising money for charity. This grouphas recently made appearances atNew Orleans Saints and Hornetsgames, the Super Bowl Parade andMacy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,and will be participating in theupcoming Pegasus Parade at the2013 Kentucky Derby.

Duchess Angelica, Celeste KateStephens, wore a floor-length, navytaffeta Karishma evening gown witha flower detail on a single shoulderstrap and a full A-line skirt. Its pleat-ed bodice was a corset with shim-mering beads and jewels that lacedup the back.

Duchess Angelica is the daughterof Paulia Stephens of Lake Charlesand Krewe members Wendell andKay Stephens of Sulphur. After gradu-ating from Sulphur High School,Celeste earned her Bachelor ofScience degree in Biological Sciencefrom McNeese State University andher Doctorate of Physical Therapyfrom the University of St. Augustinefor Health Sciences. Duchess Angelicais working at Southern Home Healthas a physical therapist. She attendsOur Lady of Good Counsel CatholicChurch in Lake Charles.

A three-year member of theKrewe, Celeste is a member of theAmerican Physical TherapyAssociation and Louisiana PhysicalTherapy Association. In her freetime, she enjoys collecting moviesand traveling as much as possible.

Next to majestically step into theroyal arena was Duke Edward XXX,Gregory Corbello, along with his

King Charles du Lac XXX, Daren M. Sarver and Queen Katherine XXX, Missy Bushnell

Seated front row: Clarice LaFosse, Wayne McVicker, Kim Caton, Sam Reeves,and Lisa Ange. Back Row: Bill Willis, Donnie Martin, Cyndi LeJeune,

Phyllis Guidry, Captain Colvin LeDoux and Jim Barnatt


beautiful consort, Duchess Caroline XXX,Brenda Maddox.

Duke Edward, along with his wife, Dr.Linda Lebert-Corbello, resides in LeBleuSettlement. A first string member of the IowaBasketball team prior to graduation, Gregbegan his working career at Standard Supplyas an inside salesperson. A two-year stint inNew Orleans found Greg working for Shell Oilin Wyclosky, followed by Gulf States Utilities,Otis Wireline, Corbello Investments, Citgo,and presently, as a superintendent for theCalcasieu Parish Police Jury. A graduate ofLiberty Bible College, Duke Edward marriedthe late Anite Conner in 1970. They had twochildren, Heath Corbello and Sherie Corbello.

After being widowed in 2005, Gregorymet and married Linda LeBert in October2008. The Corbello family now includesHeath Corbello and wife Sonja, Robbie LeBertand wife Eva, Sherie Alston and husbandDarian, and Michael Seth LeBert.Grandchildren include Andre’ LaCombe,Hunter Corbello, Sophia Cesarini, TanerGilley, Susie LeBert and Ashton Alston. Gregenjoys are home remodeling projects, travel-ing, and gardening. He became a member ofthe Krewe in 2008.

Duchess Caroline XXX, Brenda Maddox,appeared resplendent in a hot pink ball gowndesigned by John Bills. The bodice was fullybeaded with silver sequins and pink crystals;the full skirt was beaded pink organza overhot pink taffeta. The Duchess is a lifelong res-ident of Lake Charles and has been married toRonald Maddox for 40 years. They have twodaughters, Adria Bertrand of Lacassine andErin Wilson of Lake Charles, and two grand-sons, Bryce Bertrand and Collin Wilson.

Brenda is a graduate of LaGrange HighSchool and McNeese State University. Shetaught for two years at Our Lady’s School inSulphur and is now retired from teaching forthe Calcasieu Parish School Board. Brenda andRonnie are members of Our Lady Queen ofHeaven Catholic Church where Brenda hastaught CCD. They both believe that helpingthose in need is extremely important and try toset an example for their family by lending ahand when they can.

The Duchess enjoys participating in what-ever her grandsons are involved in, support-ing LSU, MSU and the Saints, and dancing,gardening and crafting. She enjoys workingand playing with children, and says they helpto keep her young at heart. She also lovesgoing to the beach and her camp, fishing andcrabbing, traveling, cooking, entertainingfamily and friends, and riding her Harley.

Brenda and Ronnie have been Krewemembers for 17 years with Brenda serving onthe board for three years. She has also been amember of the Krewe of Athena for four years.

The excitement mounted as the emceerevealed the identity of His Majesty, KingCharles du Lac XXX. Krewe members weredelighted as the new King, Daren M. Sarver,made his appearance.

King Charles, a lifelong resident of LakeCharles, is the son of Jon M. and Judy Sarver.King Charles has been married to HeatherMcLanahan Sarver for 15 years. They are theproud parents of Madeline Ann, EmmaMarie, Amelia Brook and Lillian Grace.

His Royal Highness, a graduate of AlfredM. Barbe High School and McNeese StateUniversity, holds a degree in sociology.Owner/broker of Prudential Elite Realtorsand SRG Valuations, he is also a partner inPremier Development. He is a member of theSouthwest Louisiana Association of Realtorsand the National Association of Realtors. Heis also member of the Buccaneers of LakeCharles, the Calcasieu Boat Club, and theTrop-Rock Music Association. A five-yearmember of the Krewe, the King enjoys spend-ing time with family and friends, fishing,playing darts, going to the beach and cooking.He has been a member of Trinity BaptistChurch for 25 years.

The crowd was not disappointed as theywere introduced to Queen Katherine XXX,Melissa R. “Missy” Bushnell. The daughterof Will and Wyonna Berzas of Lake Charles,Missy is married to Howard “Ronnie”Bushnell who is employed as a medical tech-nologist at Women and Children’s Hospital.They have been married for 19 years and haveone daughter, Sarah Catherine, a junior atBarbe High School.

The Queen has been an educator in theCalcasieu Parish School System for 20 years.She is currently the Principal of DolbyElementary and has served as a kindergartenteacher, fourth and fifth grade ELA teacher,and a SPARK teacher as well. She also servedas the Curriculum Coordinator and AssistantPrincipal of Dolby Elementary before becom-ing principal in 2011. Missy was one of thefirst teachers in Calcasieu Parish to become aNational Board Certified Teacher, an ITECTechnology Model Classroom Teacher, a dis-trict Quality Mentor, and was named the 2010Louisiana Elementary Assistant Principal ofthe Year.

Missy and Ronnie have been involved inthe Krewe for 12 years, seven of which Missyserved on the board of directors. She enjoysreading, shopping, arts and crafts, and vaca-tioning with her husband and daughter.

The Queen wore a floor-length white satinball gown with a princess silhouette, sweet-heart bodice, and full skirt. Designed byChristina Wu, the strapless gown featured afully beaded bodice and skirt of miniaturecrystals, seed pearls, and iridescent sequins.The gown was custom fitted and bustled toshow the exquisite detail and design of thefull-length train.

As with tradition, the new King andQueen offered a toast to their Royal Court.The, Krewe members and their guests raisedtheir glasses to toast the Royal Court, and inreturn, the King and Queen offered a toast totheir royal subjects. The Captain then blewhis whistle to let dancing begin to the soundsof “No Idea” from New Orleans.

Duke Edward XXX, Greg Corbello andDuchess Caroline XXX, Brenda Maddox

Duke Andrew XXX, Nick Kohrs and Duchess Angelica XXX, Celeste Stephens


The Krewe des Lunatiques cele-brated its 25th Mardi Gras Ball inthe Contraband Room of the LakeCharles Civic Center on Saturday,February 2. The theme of this year’sevent was “Lunatiques Celebrate 25Years of Mardi Gras.” In keepingwith this year’s theme, Past Royaltywas presented and guests wereentertained with skits from through-out the 25 years. Chad Austinserved as Master of Ceremonies.

The presentation began with theposting of colors by Zach Haunce,Eagle Scout for Troop 107, and thesinging of the National Anthem byAshley Lavine. The 2012-2013

board of directors and electedofficers were introduced includ-

ing: Chairman Leslie Maternealong with Tami Blocker, MarionBordelon, Mark Bordelon,Charlotte Flores, Debbie Lavergne,Mark Lavergne, Angel Mefford,Thomas Mefford, HeatherBourgeois, Joanna Laningham andKatie Trahan.

At the sounding of the Captain’sWhistle, the evening’s festivities began.A farewell was given to the 24th RoyalCourt, King Raphael XXIV, BarryLaningham; Queen Evelyn XXIV,Joanna Laningham; Duke andDuchess of Mardi Gras Music, Kimand Pam Suraz; and Duchess ofGrease Lightning, Katie Trahan.

A brief Krewe history was given,after which the founders and originalboard of directors were introduced

to the audience: Nancy Bienvenu,Mollie Cooke, Becky Becnel, JoeBecnel, JoAnn Becnel, CherylHigginbotham Bertrand, RonnieGuidry, Angel PapadimitriouMefford, and Marti Natalie.

The 2013 Debutante and Beauswere presented next. Miss AnnMarie Mefford is the daughter ofmembers Thomas and AngelMefford. Ann is a 2012 graduate ofAlfred M. Barbe High School andcurrently attends the University ofLouisiana in Lafayette where she ispursuing a major in French Studiesand a minor in SecondaryEducation. She is a member of theAlpha Mu Chapter of Sigma SigmaSigma and the Student OrientationStaff. Ann was escorted by herfather, Thomas F. Mefford.

Mr. Austin Lee Bordelon is the

son of members Mark and MarionBordelon and the grandson ofMaria Tucker and Kenneth andIrma Bordelon. A 2012 graduate ofSam Houston High School, he cur-rently attends Sowela TechnicalCommunity College studyingProcess Technology and isemployed with Market Basket ofMoss Bluff. Austin was escorted byhis mother, Marion A. Bordelon.

Mr. Patrick Wayne Bordelon isthe son of members Mark andMarion Bordelon and the grandsonof Maria Tucker and Kenneth andIrma Bordelon. Patrick is a 2012graduate of Sam Houston HighSchool where he was the 2012 Prom

Captain Angel Mefford

Ann Marie Mefford

Austin Lee Bordelon

Patrick Wayne Bordelon

Queen Evelyn XXV, Charlotte Flores and King Raphael XXV, Mark Bordelon.


King and continues volunteering histime helping out with the footballprogram. He is currently employedat Mark Dodge. Patrick was escortedby his mother, Marion A. Bordelon.

The presentation continued withthe arrival of Captain AngelMefford to the music of “I GottaFeeling.” Angel wore a Captain’scape created and designed by ReneeWiese and Cheryl Bertrand. Theblack velvet cape was adorned withthe Krewe crest and Mardi Gras-themed embellishments. The capewas complimented with a tear drophat embellished with velvet, sequin,plumes, peacock feathers and net-ting designed by Ann Monlezun ofSassy Royals. Angel carried aCaptain’s staff stick showcasing thefleur de lis adorned with “25” forthe Krewe’s grand anniversary.

The Captain and her husbandThomas Mefford are residents ofLake Charles and have two daugh-ters, Ann and Katie. She isemployed at IBERIABANK and amember of the board of directorsfor the Krewe, Women’sCommission of SWLA and LakeArea Ladies Club. Angel lovesspending time with her family andextended family made throughfriendships along her way in life.

King Raphael XXV, Mr. MarkBordelon and Queen Evelyn XXVMs. Charlotte Flores were present-ed to the Krewe members and guest.

King Raphael’s costume waswhite brocade complimented withgold trim. The tunic was adorned

with purple and iridescent stonesthat were delicately hand-stitched.Queen Evelyn’s wore a white strap-less flowing gown accented withgold trim and embellished withpurple and iridescent stones. TheKing and Queen wore matchingfleur de lis mantles created and dec-orated by the King’s wife, MarionBordelon.

His Royal Highness currentlyresides in Moss Bluff. King Markand his wife Marion have two sons,Patrick and Austin. He is employedby Johnson Funeral Home and is amember of the board of directorsfor the Krewe and the BCA(Billiards Congress of America). Heenjoys fishing, playing pool with histeam, and playing in tournamentson the weekends.

Her Royal Highness currentlyresides in Gillis. She has two sons,Brandon and daughter-in-lawLindsy and Matt and his fiancéeKatie. She also has two grandsons,Jaxon and Eli. Queen Charlottereceived her Master’s Degree atMcNeese State University inEducational Leadership and is anassistant principal at Cypress CoveElementary School. A member ofthe Krewe’s board of directors, sheenjoys spending time with her fami-ly and friends.

It was then time to start the jour-ney down memory lane by honoringKings and Queens from years past,starting with King and Queen XXIII,Toddy and Sherry Todd; King andQueen XXII, Charlie and Tami

Blocker; King and Queen XXI, Daleand Michelle Starr; King VII, XVII,XX and Queen VII, XX, Randy andCheryl Bertrand; King XIII, XIXand Queen XIII, Mark and DebbieLavergne; Queen XIX, Kristi Dartez;King XVIII, Thomas F Mefford;Queen XVIII, Sally Bertrand; Kingand Queen XVI, Charles and LeslieCubbage; King XV and Queen XV,Roderick and Belinda Lavergne andKing and Queen XIV, Mark andMarion Bordelon.

In previous years, the Kreweheld annual chicken runs where tra-ditionally, people went from houseto house gathering ingredients for agrand gumbo. The members wouldsing, dance and make a generalspectacle of themselves to collectfood. The Krewe is now active par-ticipants in the Gumbo Cook-offeach year, actually winning WildGame Gumbo, Chicken SausageGumbo and even the Spirit Stickduring the last few years. So, withMardi Gras music and a “chicken”in the lead, the Past Royalty parad-ed around the room and threwbeads to the members and guest.

From the 1996 LunatiqueAwards-themed ball and back bypopular demand was the renditionof “Respect” performed by theLunatique Motown Sisters: KamJakubek, Leslie Materne, KatieTrahan, Melissa Bender andHeather Bourgeois.

The journey of Past Kings andQueens continued with King andQueen XII, Joe and Beth Bowers;

King XI, Joe Duffel and Queen XI,Karen Thomas; King X and QueenIII, X, Joe and JoAnn Becnel; Kingand Queen IX, Bill and ReneeWiese; King and Queen VIII,Jimmy and Jackie Bastow; Kingand Queen VI, Mike and TinaEzell; King and Queen V, Bill andConnie Davis; King IV, CharlesNatalie and Queen IV, Judy Partin;King II, Wayne Partin and QueenII, Lynn Marcantel; and last butreally first King Raphael I, RonnieGuidry and Queen Evelyn I,Colleen Dupre DiPetta.

Next, past Royalty threw beadsto the members and guests as theyhollered “throw me something,Mister!”

Former Captains Butch andMollie Cooke, who served from1991 – 1994 were introduced next.Butch and Mollie set a tone that noCaptain has been able to match andeven donated Krewe mantles thathave been used throughout the last15 years after the originals weredestroyed in a fire.

After the Promenade of the Past,it was time to get the party started.Helping jump start into the futurewas Charlie Blocker, PatrickBordelon, Thomas Mefford, andRod Vincent, who got crowd revel-ing to the sounds and movement ofthe “Gangnam Style” dance.

Following the traditional SecondLine led by the newly crowned Kingand Queen, members and guestsenjoyed the evening dancing to themusic of Static.

Past Royalty from the first 24 years (left to right starting at top row).Top: Mark Bordelon, Marion Bordelon, Mark Lavergne, Kristi Dartez, Thomas FMefford, Ronnie Guidry, Joe Bowers. 2nd from top: Roderick Lavergne, Debbie

Lavergne, Joe Becnel, Beth Bowers. 3rd from top: Belinda Lavergne, JackieBastow, Randy Bertrand, JoAnn Becnel, Bill Wiese. 4th from top: Jimmy

Bastow, Cheryl Bertrand, Karen Thomas, Renee Wiese. Bottom: Judy Yelverton,Sherry Todd, Toddy Todd, Joe Duffel, Tami Blocker, Charlie Blocker

Then and now: King Raphael I, Ronnie Guidry and Queen Evelyn I, Colleen Dupre DiPetta

Connie and Bill DavisTina and Mike Ezell


The Krewe de la Maison de Calcasieucelebrated its 14th annual ball with a toast tothe Krewe and its incredible members.“Raise Your Glass” was the theme for theevening on Saturday, February, 2. The VFWwas decorated with large flowing champagnebottles and brightly colored glasses. Masterof Ceremonies, John Bridges, was on handto assist with the evening’s presentation.

The Krewe said farewell to the 2012“Maison Goes to Vegas” Royal Court: Dukeand Duchess of Excalibur, Jacques andAnne Picou; Duke and Duchess of theImperial Palace, Phillip and CandaceKaram; Captain Elvis, Jeanice Olmsted;and King Charles XII, David Nelson andQueen Catherine XII, Kathy Nelson.

As the lights lowered, Captain Morganappeared in his trademark red coat andflowing ringlets. With hand on sword andwearing a mask so as not to reveal his trueidentity, Captain Morgan stood silently for amoment and sank back into the curtains. Intrue Maison de Calcasieu tradition, the

identity of the Captain was hidden behindhis mask for the Presentation and unveiledat the closing.

Captain of the 2013 Mardi Gras seasonwas Karl Lopez. Karl and his wife, Janice,are residents of Lafayette. Karl is a drillingsuperintendent for Conoco Phillips. TheLopezes have three children: Kyle, Kasey,and Kayley and a grandson, Kullen. Karl hasbeen a member since 2004 and is currentlyserving as the director of membership. Healso chairs the Gumbo Cookoff Team,which has won first place for their wildgame gumbo for two straight years. WithCaptain Morgan at the helm, his team willsurely be ready for this year’s contest.

The Duchess of the Dirty Martini, LindaSharp, was presented first. As Frank Sinatra’scrooning filled the room, Duchess Lindasparkled in her silver satin dress. No martinicostume would be complete with an olive,which sat atop her head. Linda is a native ofScotland. After working as a traveling nurse,she planted roots in Sulphur. She currently

King Charles XIII - John StickneyQueen Catherine XIII - Ellie Stickney


works at West CalCam Hospital as theICU manager. Linda joined the Krewein 2010 and currently serves as theKrewe’s social director. When notplanning social events, Linda is cruis-ing, wining, and dining. Oh, the sweetlife of a dirty martini!

The Duke and Duchess ofHurricanes, Steven and Jolene John,came out next, adorned in brightgreen with sparkling hurricane glassesas their collars. Steven and Jolene areresidents of Moss Bluff and have twochildren, Aaron and Lauren. DukeSteven is a mechanical shift foremanat Citgo Petroleum. On his off-time,he is the head coach for the JuniorBronco wrestling team. DuchessJolene is currently a full-time studentand occasionally works as a substituteteacher. She is best known for drivingthe MOM taxi as she escorts herdaughter to and from dance andcheer practices. The Johns have beenKrewe members since 2007 and playan active role in set decoration.

Next came The Duke andDuchess of Champagne, Martinand Sharon Thompson, wearingshades of pink and gold representingthe beautiful colors of champagne.Sharon and Marty Thompson wereoriginal members of the Krewe in2000. With job relocation, theThompsons moved away from thearea. However, they found them-selves back in Lake Charles and backto the Krewe that they so loved.

Sharon and Marty have four chil-dren between them: two boys,Michael and John, and two girls,Julia and Maura. They also haveeight grandchildren who are spreadout between Louisiana, Florida andNorth Carolina. Duke Marty is in theaerospace business and has beenemployed by Northrop Grummansince 1985. Sharon is fully employedas the overseer of the Thompsonfamily, mainly Marty. The eveningwas extremely special for Marty andSharon as they celebrated their 12thanniversary. They actually weremarried minutes before theKrewe’s second annual Ball!

As the presentation cameto a close, the hall darkenedand the King and Queenstepped forward wearingbrilliant royal blue adornedwith numerous crystals thatsparkled in the spotlight andlit mantles in royal blue andsilver. Serving as King CharlesXIII and Queen CatherineXIII were John and EllieStickney of Moss Bluff.They have two children,Michelle and Sean andfive grandchildren:

Devin, Logan, Erica, Alex, andIsabella. King John works for EpixAnesthesia of Houston as a staffCRNA. Queen Ellie works forMemorial Hospital as a pre-admis-sion nurse.

The Royal Couple are very activein the Lake Charles community.They were Duke and Duchess of theKrewe in 2010. John was the King ofKrewe du Bon Coeur in 2000 andtheir Captain in 2006. They areinvolved with Krewe du Bon Coeur,Krewe des Pirates, The Buccaneers ofLake Charles, and the Parrot Heads.When John and Ellie have a fewspare moments, you can find a cam-era in their hands. They love givingthe friends and Krewe family mem-bers photos from a memorable event.

Captain Morgan reappeared andunveiled himself with a bit of humorthanks to his trusty barrel assistant.Then, all were entertained with a1920s-inspired top hat routine by aKrewe dance troupe. CaptainMorgan toasted the Royal Court andthe King and Queen kicked off thecelebration with the “Second Line.”The evening continued with hours ofmusic and dancing provided by thesounds ofBoomerang.

Captain Morgan, Karl Lopez

Duke and Duchess of Hurricanes, Steven and Jolene John

Duke and Duchess of Champagne, Marty and Sharon Thompson

Duchess of the Dirty Martini, Linda Sharp


“Daisy Dukes and CowboyBoots” was the theme of Krewe ofthe Marsh’s fourth annual Ball, heldSaturday, January 5 at the VFWPost 2130 in Lake Charles. The hallwas transformed into a Westernsaloon where everyone could dustoff their boots and mosey up to thebar for a great night. Master ofCeremonies Aaron Ladd wel-comed guests and Krewe members.

To get the party started, Krewemembers danced to several westernsongs: Jodi Cox, Janci Caldwell,Allison Berwick, Trent Berwick,Justin Breaux, Cora Broussard,Misty Andrus, Brian Andrus, CaseyAndrus, Tyler McIver, AngieMouton, Amber Spell, TammySpell, Brandi Styron, Mike Styron,Sr. and Angie Styron.

The Krewe said goodbye to the2012 Royal Court as they madetheir final walk: Kenny Berwick,King Gaston III and Ada Berwick,Queen Marie III; Troy and MandiFontenot, the Duke and Duchessof Voodoo and Captain Jeff Stark.

Representing the Duke andDuchess of Wild West were Earland Cheryl Wright. Earl andCheryl have been members of theKrewe since 2009. They have beenmarried for 21 years and are theproud parents of Justin andMcKenzie. Earl is a graduate ofLaGrange High School and is theowner of Wright’s PlumbingService. He enjoys cooking, travel-ing, fishing and hunting and is amember of the Cajun French MusicFestival. Cheryl is a graduate ofBarbe High School and has beenemployed by CardiovascularSpecialists for 20 years. She enjoystraveling, watching her daughtercompete in pageants, spending timewith her Krewe family and is on theboard of directors for the CajunFrench Music Festival.

Duke and Duchess of Rodeowere represented by Rob andElizabeth Pruitt. Rob and Liz livein Lake Charles and have beenKrewe members for two years. Theyhave been married for 20 years andhave two children, Tatjana andJosh and one grandson – Landon.Roy is retired and Liz works forTurner Industries at Sasol. Rob’shobby is being a mechanic; Lizenjoys reading and computersin her spare time.

Duke and Duchess ofOutlaws were representedby Kevin Harson and JanetPhillips. Kevin has been a

member of the Krewe for four yearsand Janet has been a member forthree years. Kevin is a graduate ofAcadiana High School and has beenemployed with Pro Pools for 18years. He has two children, Ian andJessi, and three grandchildren. He isa member of the Cajun FrenchMusic Association and Knights ofColumbus. Kevin enjoys cooking,bonfires, and spending time withfamily and friends. Janet is a gradu-ate of LaGrange High School andhas been employed byCardiovascular Specialists for fouryears. She is a member of the CajunFrench Music Association, enjoysPokeno, reading, cooking, bonfireswith friends and spending timewith family. The Duke and Duchessare engaged to be married.

Finally, it was time to meet theKing Gaston IV and Queen MarieIV, Mark and Tammy Spell.

The King and Queen are resi-dents of Lake Charles and havebeen married for 26 years. They arethe proud parents of Kari andAmber, and grandparents of LaneAllen Spell. Mark graduated fromBarbe High School and is self-employed as a commercial fisher-man. His hobbies include hunting,fishing, gambling and playing golfbut most of all, spending time withhis grandson Lane. Tammy gradu-ated from Barbe High School andworks for Hertz Equipment Rental.Tammy loves to hang out with fam-ily and friends and have a goodtime, but mostly being “Meme” toher grandson. The King and Queenare founding members of the Kreweof the Marsh.

The 2013 Captain, BrandiStyron, appeared as Coyote Ugly.Brandi is a resident of Lake Charlesand is the very proud mother ofBryant Williams, 9. She graduatedfrom Barbe High and went on toSowela Technical CommunityCollege, where she received a nurs-ing degree. She has been employedby The Children’s Clinic ofSouthwest Louisiana for 15 years.Brandi has one brother, Michael. Apartygoer by heart, she has been acancer survivor for 21 years and hermotto is “Live Life to the Fullest!”Brandi is a founding member of thebest damn Krewe in SouthwestLouisiana.

Following the Second Line, theball-goers danced the night away tothe music provided by Southern DJProductions. Canter Photographyprovided the photo gallery.

Krewe of the Marsh

Children’s Fourth Annual Ball

ON JAN. 19TH KREWE OF THE MARSH CHILDREN’S

KREWE CELEBRATED ITS BALL IN SULPHUR.

• Duchess: Paisley Greenwood, 5, daughter of Hollie

and Donald Greenwood

• Duke: Brayden Andrus, 5, son of Brian and Misty Andrus

• Duchess: Hannah Bertrand, 10, niece of Michael and

Michelle Firmature

• Duke: Mason Firmature, 8, son of Michael and Michelle Firmature

• Captain: Kaleb Styron, 9, son of Michael and Jennifer Styron

• Queen: Tatjana Pruitt, 13, daughter of Rob and Liz Pruitt

• King: Caldwell, 12, son of Jeremy and Janci Caldwell

Mark and Tammy Spell, King

Gaston IV and Queen Marie IV

Rob and Liz Pruitt - Dukeand Duchess of Rodeo

Kevin Harson and JanetPhillips - Duke andDuchess of Outlaws

Brandi Styron Captain,Coyote Ugly

Earl and Cheryl Wright - Duke and Duchess of Outlaws


Krewe de la Noblesse held its28th Mardi Gras Ball on Saturday,January 19 at the Lake CharlesCivic Center. In keeping with thisyear’s theme, “Mystique ofCamelot,” the Coliseum was trans-formed to symbolize the era ofCamelot with its castles, dungeons,and dragons. The script for thepresentation was written by Krewemember Kristine Like and thedirector of the presentation wasKrewe member John Richards.Master of Ceremonies for theevening was Mr. Dale Mann.

The presentation began with theposting of colors by the ThirdBattalion 156th Unit of theLouisiana National Guard and thesinging of the National Anthem.The board for 2012-2013 was intro-duced: Mrs. Valerie Norwood,president, escorted by her husbandKenneth Norwood; Mr. Doug

Talley, first vice president, escortedby his wife Paulette Talley; Mrs.Leah Brame, second vice president,escorted by her husband TommyBrame; Mrs. Brenda Cimini, secre-tary, escorted by her husband JoeCimini; Mr. Bill McCurley, treas-urer, escorted by his grandson’snew bride, Brandi DeRouen; andMrs. Polly Richards, KreweRepresentative, escorted by herhusband John Richards.

The Royal Court for the 27thBall, “Noblesse’s EnchantmentUnder the Sea” said their farewells:King Gabriel Noblesse the XXVII,Mr. Wayne Caraway; Queen AshleyNoblesse the XXVII, Mrs. SylviaCaraway; and their Court, Dukeand Duchess of Marine Life, TonyComeaux and Toni Caraway; Dukeand Duchess Reef Life, DwightDuplantis and his new brideTammy Boudreaux-Duplantis;

Duke and Duchess of SunkenTreasure, Paul and Sheila Pounders;and Duke and Duchess of Atlantis,Vince and Jennifer Vincent.

The 2013 Debutantes were pre-sented to members and guests. MissSamantha Bradford was escortedby her father. She is the daughter ofPatrick Bradford and KristaBradford and was sponsored by heraunt and uncle, Krewe membersMickey and Donna DeLucca.Samantha is a graduate of SandyCreek High School in Tyrone,Georgia. She is now attending theUniversity of West Georgia inCarrollton, Georgia majoring inPre-med Biology and Chemistryand aspires to become an oncolo-gist. Samantha is a recipient of theH.O.P.E. Scholarship and is current-ly a member of the Peer MentoringGroup, which mentors students inlocal elementary schools. She is aVacation Bible School volunteer andparticipates in the Seven BridgesOrganization, which feeds thehomeless. Along with her sisterStephanie, she was Life Editor ofher high school yearbook.

Miss Stephanie Bradford wasescorted by her brother, KyleBradford. She is the daughter ofPatrick Bradford and KristaBradford and was sponsored by heraunt and uncle, Krewe membersMickey and Donna DeLucca. Agraduate of Sandy Creek HighSchool in Tyrone, Georgia,Stephanie is currently attending theUniversity of West Georgia inCarrollton, Georgia majoring inPre-med Biology. She hopes tobecome a pediatrician. She is arecipient of the H.O.P.E. Scholarship

and member of Peer MentoringGroup, which mentors elementaryschool children. She is also aVacation Bible School volunteer andparticipant in the Seven BridgesOrganization to feed the homelessin Atlanta.

Miss Maggie N’Cole Bradshawis the daughter of Earl and D’nitaBradshaw and was sponsored by heraunt and uncle, Krewe membersTom and Dorothy Conner. A grad-uate of Westlake High School,Maggie received numerous AllDistrict, Allstate, MVP and LHSSASoftball awards as a pitcher for theWestlake Softball Team. She alsoparticipated in tennis and volley-ball. She is currently attendingMcNeese State University majoringin Mass Communications with aconcentration in Public Relationsand Journalism. Maggie is a mem-ber of the McNeese BaptistCollegiate Ministries’ LeadershipTeam, which participated in a mis-sion trip to tornado-damaged areasof Alabama. In 2012, she was desig-nated as a McNeese State UniversityPresidential Honoree. She wasescorted by her father.

Miss Kelsey Fontenot is thedaughter of Skirit Fontenot andKrewe member Keith Fontenot. Sheis graduated summa cum laudefrom Alfred M. Barbe High Schoolwith a diploma with academicendorsement. While attending highschool, she was a cheerleader, presi-dent of the National Honor Society,secretary of the International Cluband the House Representative forJunior Statesmen of America. Shereceived the Barbe LeadershipAward and was recognized byCalcasieu Parish for outstandingperformance on the ACT and SAT

Tests. Kelsey is a Pre-medmajor at Tulane University

where she was awardedthe Tulane Presidential

Scholar Award. She wasescorted by her father.

Krewe photos bywww.monsoursphotography.com

King and Queen GabrielNoblesse XXVIII, Kyle Doise

and Dawn ChristineHumphrey Cole.

Captain Leo Reddoch, III.


Miss Anna Grantham is thedaughter of Mark and LisaGrantham. She was sponsored byher grandfather, Krewe memberMerlyn “Sonny” Grantham. Anna isa graduate of St. Louis High Schoolwhere she was a member of theSaint’s golf and swim teams and wascaptain of the swim team her senioryear. She was also a member of theKey Club and Campus Ministry andis a volunteer for the Make-A-WishFoundation, St. Patrick’s Hospitaland Lake Charles MemorialHospital. Anna is attendingMcNeese State University majoringin nursing. She is a member of ChiOmega, the Student Union Board,and the Blue Blaze Nation. She wasescorted by her grandfather.

Miss Kelly Felan is the daughterof Erik and Chelle Felan of Humble,Texas. She was sponsored by heraunt and uncle, Krewe memberJohn and Dianna Davenport. Kellyis a senior at Atascocita HighSchool in Humble where she servesas the mascot for the Varsity CheerTeam. For the past two years, shehas been a member of the NationalLatin Honor Society and has placedfirst at state competitions in Latinfor Art and for Digital Scrapbook.Kelly is a volunteer at a local nurs-ing home. She plans on attendingeither the University of Texas orTexas State in the fall to major ingraphic design and photography.She was escorted by her uncle, JohnDavenport.

The presentation continuedwith the arrival of Captain LeoReddoch, III, as Sir Lancelot, firstKnight of the Round Table. CaptainLeo and his wife Heather are resi-dents of Lake Charles and are theowners of Reddoch Land Surveying,Gulf Coast Unishippers, WesternShipping Group of New Mexico,and Ship It All of Beaumont, Texas.They are the parents of three sons –Jason, Grant, and Alec. Leo is agraduate of Louisiana TechUniversity and enjoys sailing, hunt-ing, fishing and golf.

Representing Sir Galahadand Lady of the Lake wereDuke Donnie Courvelle andDuchess Lottie RiceCourvelle. The Duke andDuchess are residents of LakeCharles. Duke Donnie, a certi-fied welder, is a 36-yearemployee of PPG. He is agraduate of Vinton HighSchool and McNeese StateUniversity. He also served inthe Army for four years andwas stationed in Germany. Heenjoys golf, power lifting, andgardening.

Duchess Lottie is an opera-tions administrative coordina-tor at PPG. She is a graduateof LaGrange High School andMcNeese State University. Sheis a member of Alpha Delta PiAlumnae Association and par-ticipates in fund-raising eventsfor the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.She enjoys cooking, entertaining,gardening and traveling. Donnieand Lottie are the parents ofLindsay Bollotte Ardoin, HaleyBollotte Pole, Tammy Peveto andTiffany Peveto as well as grandpar-ents to McKlayne and MalloryArdoin, Morgan Pole, Cole andReese Peveto. They are members ofthe Pelican Coast Parrothead Cluband Krewe des Pirates.

Representing Sir Gawain andLady Morgan Le Fay were DukeAbe Tabanjah and Duchess AmyVeuleman. Duke Abe is a graduateof McNeese State University with aBachelor of Science in ChemicalEngineering and an MBA. He is ananalyst at Praxair and is a memberof the American Institute ofChemical Engineers.

Duchess Amy is a graduate ofULM and McNeese State Universitywith a Bachelor’s Degree in CriminalJustice and a Master’s in SpeechCommunications. Amy is an instruc-tor at McNeese in the Departmentof Mass Communications. She is amember of the Women’sCommission of SWLA, United Way

of SWLA and a faculty Advisor forcowboys in Action. The Duke andDuchess reside in Lake Charles andare the parents of Harrison, a fresh-man at St. Louis and Nicholas, a stu-dent at OLQH.

King Gabriel Noblesse XXVIII,Mr. Kyle Doise represented KingArthur. The King’s tunic was madeof brilliant white crepe sateentrimmed with gold sateen andembellished with rhinestoneappliqué trim, and his mantle waswhite and gold highlighted withwhite ostrich feathers. The King is agraduate of Oakdale High Schooland attended McNeese StateUniversity and received a degree inprocess technology from SowelaTechnical Community College. He isemployed by Vista Chemical as proj-ect liaison coordinator. Kyle enjoysfishing, visiting Galveston Island,working on his 1988 Corvette, andcooking for his family and friends.The King and his son, Garrett JosephDoise, reside in Lake Charles.

Queen Ashley Noblesse XXVIII,Ms. Dawn Christine HumphreyCole, represented Queen Guinevere.The Queen’s gown white crepe sateen

trimmed in gold. The cap sleeveswere also trimmed in gold crepesateen and rhinestone appliqués, andher white and gold mantle was high-lighted with white ostrich feathers.The Queen is a graduate of McNeeseState University with a Bachelor ofScience in Mechanical Engineeringwith a minor in Mathematics. She isemployed by Firestone Polymers asan environmental team Lead. Sheenjoys watching her children playbaseball and soccer and singing andplaying the violin in the Praise Bandof the First Baptist Church in MossBluff. She has served as captain forFirestone Polymers American CancerSociety Making Strides and Relay forLife Teams, and participated in Bowlfor Kids Sake. She has two sons, RyanJoseph Cole age 14, and JohnathanChristian Cole, age 8. The Queenand her sons reside in Sulphur.

Royal Entertainment for theevening was provided by Mr. KevinHodge who performed selectionsfrom Camelot. Following the tradi-tional promenade and the toast bythe Royal Court, members andguests enjoyed the evening dancingto the music of Krossfyer.

Samantha Bradford Stephanie Bradford Maggie N’Cole Bradshaw Kelsey Fontenot Anna Grantham Kelly Felan

Duke and Duchess Donnie and Lottie Courvelle

Duke and Duchess Abe Tabanjah & Amy Veuleman


Krewe du Masque celebratedtheir 15th Annual Carnival Seasonon Saturday, January 26, at the VFWon Country Club Road. “SadieHawkins Goes to Hollywood.”

King Etienne 15th is JeauxCrochet and Queen Andrianne15th is Tiffany Boudreaux.

“Paparazzi” Jester Jessica Crochetattended them. Duke and Duchessare Keith and Angie Dupuis.

The Krewe du Masque is a fam-ily-oriented Krewe and participatesin the Children’s Parade and theKrewe of Krewe’s Parade.

HAPPY MARDI GRAS!

Making costumes for over 15 years, John wants to remindeveryone to get started early

on costumes for 2014.

Deposits and decisions on costume designs and materialchoices must be finalized by

August. 25, 2013 to meet mediaphotography deadlines.

Call and ask about costume workshops. Call today for

your appointment(337) 485-1191

[email protected]


Mardi Gras Gumbo Cook-offReceives Recognition

The Cajun Extravaganzaand Gumbo Cook-off,organized by Mardi Gras ofSouthwest Louisiana Inc.,has been selected as anofficial AAA SouthernTraveler Travel Treasure.

Featured in theJanuary/February 2013issue, the Cook-off wasselected for its appeal totypical AAA members.

In its 17th year, theevent was held Saturday,Feb. 9, at the Lake CharlesCivic Center.

"For an event that start-ed under a tent on theCivic Center grounds 17years ago, we couldn't bemore pleased with how

popular it has grown," saidKatie Harrington, presidentof Mardi Gras of SouthwestLouisiana and chair of theCook-off. "We had a recordnumber of entries this year,forcing us to have teamsinside the Exhibition Hallas well as under a tent justoutside the building. Inaddition to our local com-petitors, we also had sever-al teams coming in fromout of town, some from asfar away as Houston."

New this year, for a dol-lar per vote, attendees hadthe opportunity to helpselect their favorite gumbofor the People's ChoiceAward.


On February 9, a raucous groupof pirates, bold swashbucklersall, made their way to the meetingplace, the VFW on Country Club, todo what pirates do… wreak chaos andhave a good-humored time at theThird Annual Ball of the Krewe desPirates.

The room was befitting of a pirategathering place, complete with JollyRoger Flags suspended from the ceilingand colorful masks depicting the blues,greens and bronze colors of theLouisiana marshes and bays where manytreasures were buried. The pirates hadbeen waiting months for this Ball andthey were not disappointed.

Command of the Pirate Ball was takenby Advisory Board Member and Masterof Ceremonies Mike Guidry. His com-mand to “Batten down the hatches, clearthe deck and prepare to take up anchor”was heard loud and clear. A brief history ofthe Krewe was presented along with theboard members: President-elect CharlieBlocker, Ball Chairperson Lottie Courvelle,Secretary Larry Williamson, TreasurerDonna Duhon, and Advisory MembersRicky Trahan, Johnnie Duhon, and DeanHarris.

All eyes were on the 2012 Court as theymade their final promenade: Duke andDuchess Tami and Charlie Blocker, Dukeand Duchess Billy Doherty and CourtneyLeDoux, and King Pierre II and QueenJacqueline II, Jimmy and Jackie Bastow.

Then it was time to meet our 2013 Royalty!Krewe President and Captain 2012-2013

Jimmy Bastow was presented to the guests.Jimmy has been employed by Citgo Petroleumfor 21 years as a safety supervisor. He is amember of the Buccaneers and currently holdsthe position of secretary on that board. He isalso a member of Krewe des Bon Amis,Calcasieu Boat Club, Pelican Coast ParrotHead Club and Knights of Columbus. Jimmyand his wife Jackie reside in Moss Bluff and aretwo of the nine founding members of Krewe

des Pirates. Together, they have two childrenand five grandchildren.

Manley and Danna Sims, who hail fromdistant lands across the Sabine, were presentedas the Duke and Duchess of Barataria Bay.

Duke Manley graduated from West Orange-Stark High School, is a veteran of the U.S. Army,and is a senior operator at Goodyear Chemicalin Beaumont, Texas. Duchess Danna graduatedfrom Little Cypress-Mauriceville High Schooland attended Lamar University where she stud-ied horticulture and behavioral sciences. She isretired, but still has a full time job as “Queen ofher Husband’s Heart.”

Manley and Danna were married overlook-ing the waters of Canyon Lake, Texas in 2008,and make their home in Orange, Texas. Theyhave one son and a host of four-legged chil-dren. They enjoy various activities together,including hunting, fishing, spending time withfamily and friends, and working in the garden.

The Duke of Barataria Bay’s pirate attirewas a gold shirt, emerald green vest, brownpants with a gold sash, and a black cavalier hatwith green and gold feathers. A black and goldcaptain’s coat completed his attire.

Pictured above: King & Queen of Louisiana'sMarshes & Bays, King Pierre III, Mark Lavergneand Queen Jacqueline III, Debbie Lavergne.

Pictured right: Captain Jimmy Bastow.


The Duchess of Barataria Bay wasdressed in a gold blouse with emerald green trim,and a three-tier brown, green and gold skirt. Anemerald green corset, gold sash, and black beltand boots were the finishing touches to her pirateensemble. She wore a black and gold collar withgreen and black feathers, and the gold Fleur-des-Lis and crossed swords of the Krewe crest.

Next, the Duke and Duchess of TheMarshes of Grand Terre, Frank Guidry andCheryl Bebee, were presented.

Duke Frank is a graduate of LaGrange HighSchool, served in the US Navy and is a graduateof McNeese State University where he receivedhis BS degree in accounting. Frank was marriedto the late Elizabeth Jean Farrell for 41 years, andhas one daughter and one grandson. The ownerof Gayle’s Hardware, he is a member of theBuccaneers, Pelican Coast Parrot Head Club,Krewe du bon Coeur and Sigma Pi BusinessFraternity.

Duchess Cheryl was born in Sulphur, raisedboth in Sulphur and Lake Charles and is a 1973graduate of LaGrange High School. She is retiredfrom WR Grace where she last worked in HumanResources. Cheryl served as president of Amazin’Grace, the company’s employee volunteer groupand was also the editor of their yearly calendarand chaired the Lake Charles plants’ 50thanniversary. She is a member of the Lake AreaLadies Club and a charter member of Krewe desPirates. Married to Dale Bebee, they have threechildren and nine grandchildren. Her oldestgrandson, Jordan, is in Heaven soaring with theangels. Her favorite pastimes are spending timewith her grandchildren and taking trips with herlife-long best friends, Denise and Debbie.

The Duke wore a long black and orange skulland crossbones pirate vest over an orange satinshirt with puffy sleeves. His black pirate pants

were accented with an orange sash andblack leather belt adorned with a blackpowered gun and pirate sword, toppedoff with a black leather pirate hat withblack and orange feathers.

The Duchess was dressed in a tailoredbodice of black and orange skull and cross-bones with a cross-corded laced-up frontatop an off-the-shoulder orange peasantblouse embellished with silver skull andcrossbones. The blouse was accented with aruffled neckline and puffy sleeves and wornwith a black ruffled peasant skirt. Her collarwas adorned with black and orange feathers.

Before King Pierre III and QueenJacqueline III could join the grand party, thecourt gathered gifts befitting a King andQueen. They collected donations of gold andsilver from those in attendance, including goldcoins, beads, jewels, spices and even a little rum!

The crowd rose to their feet as they wel-comed King Pierre III and Queen JacquelineIII, Mark and Debbie Lavergne.

Queen Jacqueline III, Debbie Lavergne, wasborn and raised in Ponca City, Oklahoma. Aftercompleting an Associate of Arts degree atNorthern Oklahoma College, she moved to LakeCharles in 1973 and has completed several degreeprograms at McNeese State University. She hasbeen teaching in the Calcasieu Parish SchoolSystem for more than 30 years, and is currentlyteaching with the Talented Visual Art Program atLake Charles-Boston Academy of Learning.

The Queen attends the ImmaculateConception Cathedral in Lake Charles. She is amember of the Louisiana Art EducatorsAssociation, the National Art EducatorsAssociation, the Gallery by the Lake, the PelicanCoast Parrot Head Club, the Calcasieu BoatClub, and is a board member of the Krewe desLunatiques and a charter member and pastboard member of the Krewe des Pirates.

The Queen is married to King MarkLavergne and they have four children:Alicia Sonnier and Angelle Lavergne ofBaton Rouge, and Katherine Metzger andPatrick Swindle of Lake Charles. Theirtwo grandchildren, Emily and AndrewSonnier, live in Baton Rouge. She likes towork with ceramics, do scrapbooking, andbe with her family and friends.

Queen Jacqueline III wore a whitesequined lace dress with a high-low hemlineand ruffled sleeves under a black brocadelaced-front corset. She wore a teal satin skirtover a black lace underskirt, black boots and aleaded crystal rhinestone crown studded withlarge aurora borealis stones. Her mantle wasadorned with the Krewe crest and white, teal,and black ostrich plumes and peacock feathers.

King Pierre III, Mark Lavergne, was bornand raised in Lake Charles and is a graduate ofLaGrange High School. He has been employed atCitgo Oil Company for the past 31 years and is asafety director. He has been a member of theVolunteer Emergency Response Team and theIndustrial Hygiene Emergency Response Team forthe past 27 years.

The King attends Immaculate ConceptionCathedral in Lake Charles and is a member ofthe Calcasieu Boat Club and the Pelican CoastParrot Head Club. He is a board member of theBuccaneers of Lake Charles, the Krewe desLunatiques, and a charter member and pastboard member of the Krewe des Pirates. Markloves to have fun, dance, and be with his familyand friends. His motto is “Life is not a specta-tor’s sport.”

King Pierre III was attired in a teal brocade for-mal pirate coat trimmed with black lace and silverbouillon accented with black calfskin lapels andcuffs. He also wore a black brocade laced-frontdoublet, a white vintage ruffled shirt and blackpants. His black leather cavalier chapeau was fes-tooned with teal, white and black ostrich plumes.

The next duty was the Passing of the Sword,where King Pierre III was awarded the 2013Sword by Captain Jimmy Bastow, past KingPierre II. Queen Jacqueline II, Jackie Bastow, gra-ciously presented roses to Queen Jacqueline III.

The Dukes and Duchesses proudly presentedthe King and Queen with a full chest of treasuresand contraband as an expression of their loyal-ty. With free spirit and reckless abandon, mem-bers and guests danced to the sounds ofBoomerang.

Ball photography compliments of Gary Meekof Quiet Light Photography.

Krewe des Pirates was founded in 2010 and isproud to have a roster of 80 members.Membership is by recommendation of a currentmember.

Duke & Duchess of Barataria Bay,Manley and Danna Sims.

Duke and Duchess of Marshes of

Grand Terre, Cheryl Bebee and

Frank Guidry.


A group of Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana Board Members gather after a recent meeting.


The Krewe de L’ Possede(Mischievous Children) was estab-lished in 2002 with the purpose ofpromoting the heritage and celebra-tion of the Mardi Gras seasonthroughout our community. TheKrewe’s 2013 theme was“Celebrating over 200 Years ofLouisiana” and their ball was heldon February 9 at the Isle of Capri.

The Krewe is proud to announcethe reigning Royal Court:

King 2013, William Edward“Buddy” Ryan, Jr. represented “TheState of Louisiana’s Seal.” KingBuddy was born in Sulphur and hasa deep-rooted history to Calcasieuparish, as he is a direct descendantof Jacob Ryan, who settled in LakeCharles, and is often spoken of asbeing the “Father of Lake Charles.”His ancestor built a small sawmill atthe foot of what is now DivisionStreet. Buddy’s father is the oldestliving descendant of Jacob Ryan, Jr.

A pipe fitter fabricator by trade,Buddy is a supervisor for BoggsCoast Welding in the Aleutianchains of Alaska. Buddy resides inWashington, but spends more timein his native state Louisiana visitinghis beautiful daughter. Jessica. Anoutgoing, proud father of three, heenjoys hunting, fishing, and horse-back riding. Buddy has been amember of Krewe de L’Possede fortwo years and looks forward toserving his Possede peeps thisMardi Gras season.

Queen 2013, Tammy Lee Ryan-Bellard represented “The GreatState of Louisiana.” Queen Tammywas born and raised in Sulphur andmoved to Florida for a few yearsbefore returning to Louisiana in1995. She attended Boynton BeachCommunity College, receiving anassociate’s degree in Fire Science in1994. She received her paramediccertification from SOWELA Tech in1996. A firefighter paramedic,Tammy has been employed by theCity of Sulphur Fire Department for14 years, recently taking a positionin the training division. She is abureau of EMS instructor coordina-

tor proprietor, the chief of trainingand a captain for Ward 7 FireDistrict 1 Toomey, volunteers withCERT Calcasieu Medical ReserveCorps, and serves on the trainingcommittee for the SouthwestLouisiana Mutual Association.

Tammy resides in Vinton withher wonderful, talented husbandHaley Bellard, and their four-leggedchild Gracie Lee. Together, they ownT & H Car Care in Vinton. Tammyhas one beautiful daughter, ChandraDaniel, and her hobbies are spend-ing time with family and friends,riding her Harley Davidson, hunting,fishing, and relaxing by the water.

Captain 2013, Kim Dyer repre-sented “Possede’s Idols.” Kim wasborn in Lake Charles and raised inMoss Bluff. She has been married toT-Ron for 17 years and they havethree children, Brittany, Tanner andColston. Kim is a McNeese graduatewith an associate’s degree in nursingand is currently employed with LakeCharles Memorial Hospital as a reg-istered nurse. Her hobbies includebaking and decorating cakes. Sheenjoys spending time with her familyand friends, watching LSU andSaints football and taking mini vaca-tions. Kim has been a member of theKrewe for 10 years and served asKrewe de L’ Possede Queen in 2009.

Duchess 2013, Lisa Piatt repre-sented “Louisiana Politics.” Bornand raised in Sulphur, she marriedMark Piatt in 2001 and moved toMoss Bluff. They have three chil-dren, Bayleigh, Colby and Kassie.Lisa has been a registered nurse for16 years, working nine of thoseyears as a hospice nurse. She volun-teers in Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts andRainbow Girls and is a cheerleadingsponsor at Holy Family CatholicSchool. She enjoys camping andtraveling; she and her family havevisited 45 of the 50 states. Lisa andher husband have been members ofKrewe De L’Possede for two years.

Duke 2013, Jason Fontenot rep-resented “Sportsman’s Paradise.”Jason was raised in Lake Charlesand now lives in Moss Bluff with his

wife of eight years, Stacy, and theirthree children Ethan, Emma, andConnor. Jason is a licensed masterplumber and has been in thatindustry for over 17 years. He andhis wife own and operate AdvantagePlumbing. Jason enjoys fishing andhunting, and loves to teach his chil-dren about the outdoors. He andLisa have been members of Krewede L’Possede for three years.

Duchess 2013 Stacie Ardoinrepresented the “Voodoo QueenMarie Laveau.” Stacie attendedDeQuincy High School and

McNeese State University. She andher husband Darek have been mar-ried for 14 years and currently livein Lake Charles with their two chil-dren, Kailyn and Collin. Stacie hasworked for a local dermatologist forthe last 14 years as a medical assis-tant and office manager. She hasbeen a member of the Krewe forthree years and served as a Jesterlast year. In her spare time sheenjoys being a weekend road war-rior, attending the theater inHouston, and working with youthservice organizations.

King 2013, William Edward “Buddy” Ryan, Jr. Queen 2013, Tammy Lee Ryan-Bellard

Captain 2013, Kim Dyer Duchess 2013, Lisa Piatt

Duke 2013, Jason Fontenot Duchess 2013, Stacie Ardoin


Guess who’s turning ten? Krewedu Sauvage held its tenth annualBall on Saturday, January 26 in theFlamingo Bay Ballroom at the Isle ofCapri Casino. It was a black-tie eventwhere guests enjoyed music providedby DJ Trashy, Johnny Cage, SuperDave and Deep South Productions.Davenna Lea Photography providedphotography. In celebrating theirtenth anniversary, the Krewe chosethe theme “Decade of Debauchery”for this year’s Ball. The Royal Courtfollowed this theme by representingtraditional wedding anniversarygifts. All costumes of the Royal

Court of Krewe du Sauvage weredesigned and constructed by JohnChavanne of Lake Charles.

Duke Pierre IX and DuchessAnne IX were Josh and RoxanneLincecum of Carlyss, wearing cos-tumes representing the First andSecond Anniversary Gifts of Paperand Cotton. Duke Josh is the son ofGary Lincecum of Deville and NancyPaige of Sulphur and is an assistantsub-sea engineer for SeadrillAmericas, Inc. He is a board memberof Coastal Conservation Association,sponsor of National Wild TurkeyFederation and member of KappaAlpha Order Alumni Association.His hobbies include hunting andfishing. Roxy is the assistant to the

director of finance at SouthwestBeverage, and is the daughter ofLarry and Theresa Lyons of LakeArthur. She is a member of GoRunand Fusion Five and enjoys running,fishing and shopping. They attendImmaculate Conception in Sulphurand have one son, Eli.

Duke Charles IX and DuchessElizabeth IX were Kevin andMichelle Cline of Lumberton, Texas,wearing costumes representing theThird and Fourth Anniversary Giftsof Leather and Silk. Duke Kevin is theson of Don and Libby Cline ofDeridder, and is a graduate ofMcNeese State University and a sales-man for TNT Crane and Rigging. Heis a member of Kappa Alpha Order

Alumni Association, Gulf CoastIndustrial Alliance and LinkedIn. Hishobbies include golf, hunting andspending time with friends and fami-ly. Duchess Michelle is the daughterof Bobby and Patrice Reneau ofPlano, Texas. She is a graduate ofMcNeese State University and anagent/aspirant staff for GrantAnderson State Farm Insurance. Sheenjoys decorating, shopping, huntingand being with family and friends.They have two children, Sydnie andMason. They are members ofCrestwood Baptist Church and loveLSU football.

King Henri IX and Queen Sophie IX, Dave and Nanette Evans of Lake Charles


Duke Louis IX and DuchessAntoinette IX were Stephen andShayne Laughlin of Lake Charles,wearing costumes representing theFifth and Sixth Anniversary gifts ofWood and Sugar. Duke Stephen isthe son of Danny Laughlin of LakeCharles, and Roxana Shell ofSulphur. He is a graduate of IllinoisState University and is a fire claimsadjuster for State Farm Insurance Co.He is a member of Kappa AlphaOrder Alumni Association, CoastalConservation Association andNational Rifle Association. Stephenenjoys target shooting, hunting, fish-ing, coaching his kids’ sports teamsand playing cards with his buddies.

Duchess Shayne is the daughterof Clark Cormier of Hackberry andthe late Catherine Cormier. Sheattended McNeese State Universityand is the owner of ShayneLaughlin’s State Farm Agency. She isa member of Chamber Alliance ofSWLA and a wish granter for theMake-A-Wish Foundation. Sheenjoys cooking, painting, crocheting,

sewing and spendingtime with family andfriends. The Laughlinshave “Yours, Mine and Ours” kiddos:Caden Owens, Kiran Owens, MiaOwens, Cole Laughlin and ColinLaughlin. They are members of St.Martin DePorres Catholic Church.

Duke Philippe IX and DuchessHenriette IX are Andy and AmberDressler of Lake Charles, wearingcostumes representing the Seventhand Eighth Anniversary gifts ofCopper and Bronze. Duke Andy isthe son of Francis and Jan Dressler ofLake Charles. A graduate of McNeeseState University he is the owner/agentof The Firm Louisiana Property andCasualty, LLC. Andy is a member ofFusion Five, NAIFA, PIA andChamber of Commerce and is alsopresident of Lake Charles Elite LionsClub and an ambassador of theChamber of Commerce. He enjoyshunting, fishing and golf.

Duchess Amber is the daughter ofJim and Pat Schooler of Lake Charles.

She is administrative coordinator forthe Registrar of Voter’s Office and is agraduate of Stage One. Amber enjoysBunco, reading and running her kidsall over town for sports activities. Thecouple has three children, Jordan,Noah and Dillon and attend TrinityBaptist Church.

King Henri IX and QueenSophie IX were Dave and NanetteEvans of Lake Charles, wearing cos-tumes representing Ninth and TenthAnniversary gifts of Diamonds andPlatinum. King Dave is the son ofPat Evans of Lake Charles and thelate Tim Evans. Dave and Nanetteare the owner/operators of Luna Bar& Grill and Luna Live Music Venueand Catering. Dave is a graduate ofDelta Tech and is the chef of LunaBar & Grill and Luna Live. He ispresident of Louisiana RestaurantAssociation and a member of theChamber of Commerce. He enjoysplaying and writing music, traveling,

attending concerts and cooking forfriends and family.

Queen Nanette is the daughter ofJerry Pounders of Hemphill, Texasand Ann Mann of Big Lake. Sheenjoys traveling, entertaining, anddecorating. The couple is huge Saintsfans. They have three children,Cassidy, Ella and Ian.

Krewe du Sauvage was foundedin 2003 by Ashlee LeLeaux Milazzoof Katy, Texas. She is married to JoeMilazzo and has a daughter,Campbell Elisabeth Lemons. Ashleeis the daughter of E. StephenLeLeaux and Donna Richey Ortego,both of Lake Charles, and is a mem-ber of the McNeese AlumniAssociation and Phi Mu AlumniAssociation. A Krewe board member,she has served as Captain and holdsthe honor of reigning as QueenSophie I.

Board members include Joe andTerri Aubey, Donovan and KeithaDupuis, Deanna Russell, Scott andStephanie Helms, Elizabeth Laughlinand Brian and Lisa Smith.

Duke Pierre IX and Duchess Anne IX, Josh and Roxanne LincecumDuke Charles IX and Duchess Elizabeth IX, Kevin and Michelle Cline

Duke Philippe IX and Duchess Henriette IX, Andy and Amber DresslerDuke Louis IX and Duchess Antoinette IX, Stephen and Shayne Laughlin


Deb Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA, KynadeeTouchet. Kynadee is the 11 year old daughterof Shannon and Michelle Touchet of Lacassine.

Little Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA, Layken Hodge.Layken is the 9 year old daughter of Leigh AnneMancuso and Curtis Hodge of Lake Charles.

Jr Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA, Shelby Travis.Shelby is the 17 year old daughter of Clint andDonna Travis of DeRidder.

Petite Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA, EmilyAguillard. Emily is the 8 year old daughter ofDerrick and Kristina Aguillard of Lake Charles.

Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA, Madeline Gaspard.Madeline is the 18 year old daughter of Christyand Darren Gaspard of Sulphur

Tiny Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA, FalynnForeman. Falynn is the 6 year old daughter ofLisa Foreman of Lake Charles.

Ms Mardi Gras of SWLA, Charmaine Anderson.Charmaine is 35 years old, and resides with herhusband Andy Anderson in Lake Charles.

Teen Miss Mardi Gras of SWLA, KelcieThomassee. Kelcie is the 15 year old daughterof Freddie and Stacie Thomassee of Iowa.

Photo by Emily Rose Photography

2013 Mardi Gras

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