Mardi Gras in Mobile could be huge. "Soon as you try to figure out what its gonna be it turns out not to be that." Life and business have taught Jeff Jordan not to let his hopes soar.
But now as his Mardi Gras shop heads into it's 3rd year, it's hard to keep the glimmer out of the entrepreneur's eyes. "If there's room here, I think they'll come. I'm just not sure if there's enough room to put them in hotel space."
"The central business district, downtown is pretty much booked." Leon Maisel with the Mobile Bay Visitors and Convention Bureau says hotel rooms downtown are almost all booked and the beltway is filling up.
If you want a room, act fast. You can do so at this website. www.mobile.org .
Click the title link to read the rest of the story.
Friday, January 20, 2006
Navy destroyer to visit Mobile during Mardi Gras
The U.S.S. Nitze, a new guided-missile destroyer with a crew of 320 sailors, is slated to sail into Mobile on February 24th for a five-day Mardi Gras visit.
Commander Michael Hegarty, the ship's commanding officer, said he and crewmembers are looking forward to the festivities.
The naval vessel is based in Norfolk, Virginia.
Hegarty said this will be the ship's first official port liberty visit since its commissioning last March.
Click the title link to read the rest of the story from NBC 15 news.
Commander Michael Hegarty, the ship's commanding officer, said he and crewmembers are looking forward to the festivities.
The naval vessel is based in Norfolk, Virginia.
Hegarty said this will be the ship's first official port liberty visit since its commissioning last March.
Click the title link to read the rest of the story from NBC 15 news.
Staying Safe During Mardi Gras
The Mobile Police Department wants to share some safety precautions and other good to know facts for those heading down to Mardi Gras this year.
Streets in and around the parade route will begin closing approximately one hour prior to the start of each parade. Drivers must adhere to all designated “No Parking” areas as well as other specially marked Mardi Gras “No Parking” zones marked with green and gold signs. All vehicles parked in these areas will be towed to Smith’s Towing, located at 2400 Michigan Avenue; (251)-662-8304. The fee for this towing will be $75.00 and must be paid to the wrecker company before any vehicle can be released to the owner.
R.V. parking on the medians along Claiborne and Canal Streets will still be prohibited this Mardi Gras. However, R.V. parking will be allowed beneath I-10 at Canal and Water Streets for a fee (approximately 150 spaces available). “No R.V. Parking” signs have already been posted in the downtown area and will be strictly enforced. Anyone with questions or concerns regarding R.V. parking can contact Ike Jimenez at (251) 476-7038 or 583-2350.
Following is a list of precautions that should be kept in mind while attending the parades downtown during Mardi Gras:
• Attend parades with family or friends
• A City Ordinance strictly forbids glass containers in public
• Do not follow floats. Violators may be arrested
• Do not throw any object in the direction of floats, band members, or parade participants. Violators may be arrested
• Materials known as “Silly String” and “Snap & Pops”, along with similar products are illegal. Possession of any these products may result in arrest
• If you need police assistance during a parade, go to the nearest intersection and advise a uniformed police officer
• Lost children will be taken to the Mobile Police Department Central Events Mini Precinct located at 320 Dauphin Street (208-6306). Place an index card in your childs pocket indicating their name, address, telephone number and a relatives name
• Please cooperate with all requests from police officers
• Choose a well-lit area for night parade viewing
• Establish a pre-designated meeting place for after the parade in case you get separated from friends or family
• Park vehicles in secure areas and do not leave valuables in plain sight. Utilize the trunk to store valuables
• The Mobile Police Department will enforce a “no weapons” policy. Persons found in possession of weapons will be arrested. Pistol permits do not allow possession of firearms at parades
• Uniformed and plainclothes officers will be patrolling behind the crowds to identify and arrest persons engaging in criminal activity
• Do not cross the barricades. Each officer will be carrying a ticket book and will be issuing citations to those people who disobey the law by crossing the barricades. The fine for crossing the barricades is $152.00
• Pets on leashes are prohibited during the parades downtown
• Skateboards and motorized scooters are prohibited.
Streets in and around the parade route will begin closing approximately one hour prior to the start of each parade. Drivers must adhere to all designated “No Parking” areas as well as other specially marked Mardi Gras “No Parking” zones marked with green and gold signs. All vehicles parked in these areas will be towed to Smith’s Towing, located at 2400 Michigan Avenue; (251)-662-8304. The fee for this towing will be $75.00 and must be paid to the wrecker company before any vehicle can be released to the owner.
R.V. parking on the medians along Claiborne and Canal Streets will still be prohibited this Mardi Gras. However, R.V. parking will be allowed beneath I-10 at Canal and Water Streets for a fee (approximately 150 spaces available). “No R.V. Parking” signs have already been posted in the downtown area and will be strictly enforced. Anyone with questions or concerns regarding R.V. parking can contact Ike Jimenez at (251) 476-7038 or 583-2350.
Following is a list of precautions that should be kept in mind while attending the parades downtown during Mardi Gras:
• Attend parades with family or friends
• A City Ordinance strictly forbids glass containers in public
• Do not follow floats. Violators may be arrested
• Do not throw any object in the direction of floats, band members, or parade participants. Violators may be arrested
• Materials known as “Silly String” and “Snap & Pops”, along with similar products are illegal. Possession of any these products may result in arrest
• If you need police assistance during a parade, go to the nearest intersection and advise a uniformed police officer
• Lost children will be taken to the Mobile Police Department Central Events Mini Precinct located at 320 Dauphin Street (208-6306). Place an index card in your childs pocket indicating their name, address, telephone number and a relatives name
• Please cooperate with all requests from police officers
• Choose a well-lit area for night parade viewing
• Establish a pre-designated meeting place for after the parade in case you get separated from friends or family
• Park vehicles in secure areas and do not leave valuables in plain sight. Utilize the trunk to store valuables
• The Mobile Police Department will enforce a “no weapons” policy. Persons found in possession of weapons will be arrested. Pistol permits do not allow possession of firearms at parades
• Uniformed and plainclothes officers will be patrolling behind the crowds to identify and arrest persons engaging in criminal activity
• Do not cross the barricades. Each officer will be carrying a ticket book and will be issuing citations to those people who disobey the law by crossing the barricades. The fine for crossing the barricades is $152.00
• Pets on leashes are prohibited during the parades downtown
• Skateboards and motorized scooters are prohibited.
African American Mardi Gras
There is not an abundance of photographs of black Mardi Gras past in Mobile, but enough exist to accurately tell the story. The story is told around the activities of the organization that would eventually become the Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association.
A 1946 photograph captures the spirit and excitement of a marching band as it charges toward the viewing stand. Awaiting them is the royal court of the association, but if you take a close look at these photographs, you'll discover the identity of the studio that captured these moments -- a photography studio that is, itself, a thing of the past.
Blue Light Studio number one opened on Royal Street in 1942. By 1944 a second blue light studio opened but later burned in 1958. But the photos survive.
Click the title link to read the rest of the story from NBC 15.
A 1946 photograph captures the spirit and excitement of a marching band as it charges toward the viewing stand. Awaiting them is the royal court of the association, but if you take a close look at these photographs, you'll discover the identity of the studio that captured these moments -- a photography studio that is, itself, a thing of the past.
Blue Light Studio number one opened on Royal Street in 1942. By 1944 a second blue light studio opened but later burned in 1958. But the photos survive.
Click the title link to read the rest of the story from NBC 15.
Makin Mardi Gras
Click on the title link to read all the articles from Darwin Singleton of NBC 15 news.
MAMGA seeks to bring Mammoth Parade back to "The Avenue"
When the MAMGA parade rolls on Fat Tuesday, Tammy Morgan of Prichard says keep your eye out for the ladies on float 13.
"Big Easy" float builders make Mardi Gras easier in Orange Beach
Joe Barth and Tim Kennedy are in a large metal garage, busy working on Mardi Gras floats. No surprise. It's what they do this time every year in New Orleans. But this isn't New Orleans. It isn't even in Louisiana. This is a secret float barn in Orange Beach. Alabama. So why are Joe and Tim here instead of there?
Dynasty Collection: Makin' Mardi Gras with carnival royalty!
Mary Margaret Monahan is a beautiful lady. But something special happens when you add a crown! A crown, a scepter and jewels!
Makin' Mardi Gras at Toomey's
You've seen the crazy hats, the one-of-a-kind beads, the wacky glasses (for your face or your table) and maybe even a Mardi Gras vest! That stuff is commonplace at Toomey's Mardi Gras! Watch this video
Watch this video
Moon Pie Recipe
It's that time of year again. NBC 15's own "Mr. Mardi Gras" starts dipping into the familiar purple, green and gold, and he's getting a new spin on the old Mardi Gras favorite -- the moon pie!
Mobile hosting Gulf Coast's oldest Mardi Gras
From decorated trees and outrageous costumes to colorful parades and quaint traditions, it's Mardi Gras time on the Gulf Coast. And while New Orleans' celebration may be better known, Mobile's is, in fact, known to be older — as well as more family-oriented.
Mardi Gras safety tips and need-to-know info
The Mobile Police Department wants to share some safety precautions and other good to know facts for those heading down to Mardi Gras this year.
Joe Cain
Mention his name anywhere else and it won't ring a bell, but say Joe Cain in Mobile, and, well, it's almost like saying George Washington.
African American Mardi Gras in Mobile
The Blue Light photographers did not limit their cameras to the streets of Mobile's black neighborhoods. They took them into the halls and homes here the shutter captured a carnival association party.
Royalty
Everyone knows that Cinderella is a fairy tale, but come to Mobile during Mardi Gras, and you might have to reconsider.
Royalty must have a crown
How can you recognize a Mardi Gras king or queen? By the crown, of course! Something happens to a person when that sparkling headpiece is placed on their brow. So who is responsible for crowning our Mardi Gras royalty? Darwin knows!
MAMGA seeks to bring Mammoth Parade back to "The Avenue"
When the MAMGA parade rolls on Fat Tuesday, Tammy Morgan of Prichard says keep your eye out for the ladies on float 13.
"Big Easy" float builders make Mardi Gras easier in Orange Beach
Joe Barth and Tim Kennedy are in a large metal garage, busy working on Mardi Gras floats. No surprise. It's what they do this time every year in New Orleans. But this isn't New Orleans. It isn't even in Louisiana. This is a secret float barn in Orange Beach. Alabama. So why are Joe and Tim here instead of there?
Dynasty Collection: Makin' Mardi Gras with carnival royalty!
Mary Margaret Monahan is a beautiful lady. But something special happens when you add a crown! A crown, a scepter and jewels!
Makin' Mardi Gras at Toomey's
You've seen the crazy hats, the one-of-a-kind beads, the wacky glasses (for your face or your table) and maybe even a Mardi Gras vest! That stuff is commonplace at Toomey's Mardi Gras! Watch this video
Watch this video
Moon Pie Recipe
It's that time of year again. NBC 15's own "Mr. Mardi Gras" starts dipping into the familiar purple, green and gold, and he's getting a new spin on the old Mardi Gras favorite -- the moon pie!
Mobile hosting Gulf Coast's oldest Mardi Gras
From decorated trees and outrageous costumes to colorful parades and quaint traditions, it's Mardi Gras time on the Gulf Coast. And while New Orleans' celebration may be better known, Mobile's is, in fact, known to be older — as well as more family-oriented.
Mardi Gras safety tips and need-to-know info
The Mobile Police Department wants to share some safety precautions and other good to know facts for those heading down to Mardi Gras this year.
Joe Cain
Mention his name anywhere else and it won't ring a bell, but say Joe Cain in Mobile, and, well, it's almost like saying George Washington.
African American Mardi Gras in Mobile
The Blue Light photographers did not limit their cameras to the streets of Mobile's black neighborhoods. They took them into the halls and homes here the shutter captured a carnival association party.
Royalty
Everyone knows that Cinderella is a fairy tale, but come to Mobile during Mardi Gras, and you might have to reconsider.
Royalty must have a crown
How can you recognize a Mardi Gras king or queen? By the crown, of course! Something happens to a person when that sparkling headpiece is placed on their brow. So who is responsible for crowning our Mardi Gras royalty? Darwin knows!
Return to History?
Parade petitions for return to roots
The Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association has requested a route expansion of its Fat Tuesday Mammoth Parade to include Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, a move that would take the parade back to its historic roots.
MAMGA officials also want a 2 p.m. start, Ralph Altice, association president, said Wednesday. MAMGA officials held a news conference Wednesday evening at the association's float barn to discuss the reason for requesting the route change.
"We consider this more of an expansion and not so much as a change," Altice said earlier Wednesday.
Please click the title link to read the rest of the story from the Mobile Register.
The Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association has requested a route expansion of its Fat Tuesday Mammoth Parade to include Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, a move that would take the parade back to its historic roots.
MAMGA officials also want a 2 p.m. start, Ralph Altice, association president, said Wednesday. MAMGA officials held a news conference Wednesday evening at the association's float barn to discuss the reason for requesting the route change.
"We consider this more of an expansion and not so much as a change," Altice said earlier Wednesday.
Please click the title link to read the rest of the story from the Mobile Register.
Friday, January 06, 2006
Blast from the Past
Well Mobile Mardi Gras 2006 is upon us and as we wait and prepare for the season I wanted to share some old pictures from Mardi Gras gone by. If there was any doubt that I love and have always been a part of Mobile Mardi Gras here are some pictures to prove it.
I will be covering all things Mardi Gras in the weeks and months to come so check back often. Please leave comments or drop me a line and tell me what you think, ask questions and give me suggestions to improve the site.
HAPPY MARDI GRAS MOBILE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Joe Cain was My Main Man when I was 1 in the Joe Cain Parade. I am holding onto my crown so I don’t lose it. This was my second Joe Cain Parade.
Here I am on the Mystic Stripers Queen's Float. I am ready at 2 to lead the parade. It would take many more years for me to get there.
I was 6 in this picture. In those days after a terrific Joe Cain Parade there was a ceremony and picnic at the Church Street Grave Yard where Joe Cain is buried.
This is my little sister, Timpy, and me. I guess I was about 8 in this picture on Mardi Gras Day downtown. My dad always tied a step stool to this pole so he could get up high to take pictures of the passing parades.
I guess this was when I was about 16. Funny story. My best friend Debbie called into work so she could parade in the Joe Cain Parade with me. Well, this picture appeared as almost half page on the front of the newspaper the next day. Needless to say my friend had to look for a new job but she said it was all worth it.
Finally made it!! I was 20 here when I lead the Mystic Striper’s Ball as their Queen.
This was the stage. My jester train and the stage that evening were a perfect accidental match. The stage builder and us were unaware what the other was doing. It worked out perfectly.
This was Joe Cain Day 2002. My hubby, Luke, decided to dress in traditional MOWA attire.
I will be covering all things Mardi Gras in the weeks and months to come so check back often. Please leave comments or drop me a line and tell me what you think, ask questions and give me suggestions to improve the site.
HAPPY MARDI GRAS MOBILE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Joe Cain was My Main Man when I was 1 in the Joe Cain Parade. I am holding onto my crown so I don’t lose it. This was my second Joe Cain Parade. 
Here I am on the Mystic Stripers Queen's Float. I am ready at 2 to lead the parade. It would take many more years for me to get there.
I was 6 in this picture. In those days after a terrific Joe Cain Parade there was a ceremony and picnic at the Church Street Grave Yard where Joe Cain is buried.
This is my little sister, Timpy, and me. I guess I was about 8 in this picture on Mardi Gras Day downtown. My dad always tied a step stool to this pole so he could get up high to take pictures of the passing parades.
I guess this was when I was about 16. Funny story. My best friend Debbie called into work so she could parade in the Joe Cain Parade with me. Well, this picture appeared as almost half page on the front of the newspaper the next day. Needless to say my friend had to look for a new job but she said it was all worth it.
Finally made it!! I was 20 here when I lead the Mystic Striper’s Ball as their Queen.
This was the stage. My jester train and the stage that evening were a perfect accidental match. The stage builder and us were unaware what the other was doing. It worked out perfectly.
This was Joe Cain Day 2002. My hubby, Luke, decided to dress in traditional MOWA attire.
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Monday, November 28, 2005
No Plans for New Orleans krewe in Mobile
No plans for New Orleans krewes in Mobile
Crescent City will have a shortened season, but most societies have say they will be able to parade
Saturday, November 12, 2005
By PENELOPE McCLENNY
Staff Reporter
New Orleans' Mardi Gras season will likely be shortened to six days, but local Carnival organizers said there are no confirmed reports that Crescent City societies will bring their parades to Mobile.
Arthur Hardy, publisher of New Orleans' Mardi Gras Guide and a member of the Mayor's Mardi Gras Advisory Committee, said preliminary plans are to reduce the city's parade schedule from 12 days to six. A final decision, which will come from Mayor Ray Nagin and Police Superintendent Warren Riley, is scheduled to be made at a Nov. 21 meeting, Hardy said.
Mardi Gras falls on Feb. 28. Next year will mark New Orleans' 150th year of the celebration.
Crescent City will have a shortened season, but most societies have say they will be able to parade
Saturday, November 12, 2005
By PENELOPE McCLENNY
Staff Reporter
New Orleans' Mardi Gras season will likely be shortened to six days, but local Carnival organizers said there are no confirmed reports that Crescent City societies will bring their parades to Mobile.
Arthur Hardy, publisher of New Orleans' Mardi Gras Guide and a member of the Mayor's Mardi Gras Advisory Committee, said preliminary plans are to reduce the city's parade schedule from 12 days to six. A final decision, which will come from Mayor Ray Nagin and Police Superintendent Warren Riley, is scheduled to be made at a Nov. 21 meeting, Hardy said.
Mardi Gras falls on Feb. 28. Next year will mark New Orleans' 150th year of the celebration.
Come Home to Mama!!
Mobile - The "Mother of Mystics," may host some New Orleans
(MOBILE, Ala.) November 10 -- The Mardi Gras celebration you’ve known for years in Mobile could be a lot different in 2006. That’s because officials have announced New Orleans Mardi Gras season will be shortened considerably. The upcoming parade season will last only six days, as that city recovers from Hurricane Katrina.
Click the title link to read the entire article and see the video.
(MOBILE, Ala.) November 10 -- The Mardi Gras celebration you’ve known for years in Mobile could be a lot different in 2006. That’s because officials have announced New Orleans Mardi Gras season will be shortened considerably. The upcoming parade season will last only six days, as that city recovers from Hurricane Katrina.
Click the title link to read the entire article and see the video.
Thursday, October 20, 2005
La Joie De Vivre (The Hearty Enjoyment of Life)
La Joie De Vivre is a brand new Mobile Mardi Gras organization. I found their website while surfing the web and then went about the task of finding out who they were and more about the organization. It is an interesting group. You can see their website by clicking on the title of this post.
They are a spin off of Marquis de Lafayette which is a non-parading group. I don't know the details as of yet as to what caused the split or if there was a slit. I do know however that this organization is open to men and women. They also plan to parade with the Le Krewe De Bienville parade on the Sunday before Mardi Gras Day. They are setup very differently from most other organizations. Their dues are very low at only $200 but you have to buy your own costume. This concept is much like that of a non-parading organization. The difference is that they pay their dues in quarterly payments and if you don't join until the third quarter then your dues would be $100 for that year. After the annual meeting any monies over $50 per member is deducted from each member's next years dues. This is a very strange concept to me. One thing that they are doing which I do like is the way they give free tickets to members. A lot of societies give a certain number of sets of ball tickets to each member just because they are a member. In La Joie they use a point system. You can earn points by coming to events and meetings and by getting involved on committees and the board. That means if you don't support the organization they you don't get any tickets and you have to buy tickets for your guests.
It will be interesting to see how this organization does over the coming years. My father has already been contacted to work the door for them at their ball this year will take place on February 18th at Azalea Hall. I am hoping to attend this ball as well.
They are a spin off of Marquis de Lafayette which is a non-parading group. I don't know the details as of yet as to what caused the split or if there was a slit. I do know however that this organization is open to men and women. They also plan to parade with the Le Krewe De Bienville parade on the Sunday before Mardi Gras Day. They are setup very differently from most other organizations. Their dues are very low at only $200 but you have to buy your own costume. This concept is much like that of a non-parading organization. The difference is that they pay their dues in quarterly payments and if you don't join until the third quarter then your dues would be $100 for that year. After the annual meeting any monies over $50 per member is deducted from each member's next years dues. This is a very strange concept to me. One thing that they are doing which I do like is the way they give free tickets to members. A lot of societies give a certain number of sets of ball tickets to each member just because they are a member. In La Joie they use a point system. You can earn points by coming to events and meetings and by getting involved on committees and the board. That means if you don't support the organization they you don't get any tickets and you have to buy tickets for your guests.
It will be interesting to see how this organization does over the coming years. My father has already been contacted to work the door for them at their ball this year will take place on February 18th at Azalea Hall. I am hoping to attend this ball as well.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
This is why I do this.
I received an email today from a fellow Mobile Mardi Gras person. I get these often. This is the reason I do my website. I have removed his name due to the rules of the mystics.
I just wanted to let you know how much I like your website. Even in the middle of October I like to look at the pictures of mardi gras 2005. I thought I was the biggest Mardi Gras nut but I may be wrong. You actually have a picture of me on a float in your 2005 archive. Keep up the good work and look forward to the 2006 Mardi Gras season which is right around the corner.
I don't have a clue how to scan pictures but if I ever learn I will pass them on. I am the last guy bending over up top on the first themed float picture in the OOM's. Again I enjoy the site and do visit often.--
I just wanted to let you know how much I like your website. Even in the middle of October I like to look at the pictures of mardi gras 2005. I thought I was the biggest Mardi Gras nut but I may be wrong. You actually have a picture of me on a float in your 2005 archive. Keep up the good work and look forward to the 2006 Mardi Gras season which is right around the corner.
I don't have a clue how to scan pictures but if I ever learn I will pass them on. I am the last guy bending over up top on the first themed float picture in the OOM's. Again I enjoy the site and do visit often.--
Friday, October 14, 2005
Friday, July 29, 2005
Southern Legislator Parade
Well I tried to win the raffle for the spots to parade in both of my Mardi Gras organizations but no luck. However, being the true Mardi Gras person I am there was no way a parade was going to roll with me not being a part of it when I could be. Everyone said they were so sorry that I didn't have a spot but I told them the parade is not here yet I WILL find a way. Last night around 10pm I finally called the right person and got a spot. I rode with the Order of Angels. They are a new group that began in 2002. The only person I knew was the guy that told me that I could ride. I was a little worried that some of the members would not want me there but I found out that they were wonderful people and I had a great time parading with them. If I could afford another organization I would join in a minute.
Anyway, I had two client meetings today. I drove 30 minutes to Grandbay this morning for the first meeting then back downtown to load my float then back to Theodore for the second meeting another 20 minutes away and then back downtown to get dressed in my costume to head to the parade.
I got downtown to the auditorium around 5 and met up with a bunch of the girls from one of my organizations. We tailgated out of the back of one of the girls SUV and drank champage and beer. We were told that the parade was going to roll 15 minutes early so we headed to the floats only for the parade to roll 15 minutes late. The bands would not get out of the buses until the rain stopped. No big deal. Everyone got off their floats and we had basically a street party for about 30 minutes.
Finally the parade rolled and there was a good crowd that turned out despite the weather. The people with the convention seemed to be really enjoying the show.
I did take a couple of pictures but because I was on the float I could not get a lot. My dad performed a wedding (he is a minister) and then headed down for the parade and he took a lot of pictues. He is going to email them to me so I will post them later.
Anyway, it was a great evening.
This is a bunch of people having fun before the parade.
A view from the top of the float I was on as the parade started to roll.
Anyway, I had two client meetings today. I drove 30 minutes to Grandbay this morning for the first meeting then back downtown to load my float then back to Theodore for the second meeting another 20 minutes away and then back downtown to get dressed in my costume to head to the parade.
I got downtown to the auditorium around 5 and met up with a bunch of the girls from one of my organizations. We tailgated out of the back of one of the girls SUV and drank champage and beer. We were told that the parade was going to roll 15 minutes early so we headed to the floats only for the parade to roll 15 minutes late. The bands would not get out of the buses until the rain stopped. No big deal. Everyone got off their floats and we had basically a street party for about 30 minutes.
Finally the parade rolled and there was a good crowd that turned out despite the weather. The people with the convention seemed to be really enjoying the show.
I did take a couple of pictures but because I was on the float I could not get a lot. My dad performed a wedding (he is a minister) and then headed down for the parade and he took a lot of pictues. He is going to email them to me so I will post them later.
Anyway, it was a great evening.
This is a bunch of people having fun before the parade.
A view from the top of the float I was on as the parade started to roll.
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Welcome to Margaritaville
I went to a dance for one of my Mardi Gras organizations. It was a lot of fun.
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Mobile International Carnival Ball 2002
I have been invloved in a civic organization here in Mobile since 1991 called Mobile International Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Inc. (M.I.C.A.T.) This organization has held the Mobile International Carnival Ball off and on over the course of it's existence. The ball was not held every year due to the way the event was setup. Conflicts and elections with host countries caused the event to be held about every other year. In 2002 MICAT was not receiving the funding that it once had and some people wanted to dissolve it. That was also the year of Mobile's 300th birthday and the city was planning events to celebrate all year. A commitment had been made several years earlier that MICAT would hold a ball or event to honor visitors from Canada. We had a meeting and with less that $25,000 in the bank most people said we there was no way we would be able to put on a ball. Luke and I as well as my dad did not agree. We told the rest of the board to give us a few weeks and we would put together a plan and a budget to show them we could pull this off. The date the even needed to happen was just under three months away so time was more of an issue than money but we were sure we could do it. To make a long story short we not only put on the ball but it was one of the best ones ever.
Luke wrote most of the script for the show which he centered around our emblem and HG Wells traveling to different periods in Mobile's carnival history. I will take you through the show with the pictures.
Darwin Singleton from one of the local TV stations narrated.
Scott Eldrige as HG Wells and Carlitta Wimberly as Carnivale' our emblem.
MOWA band of Choctaw Indians and reinactors recreate the scene at Twenty Seven Mile Bluff the site of the first Mardi Gras celebration. They dance to a Indian friendship dance called Stealing Partners and pull people from the audience to join in.
Luke wrote most of the script for the show which he centered around our emblem and HG Wells traveling to different periods in Mobile's carnival history. I will take you through the show with the pictures.
Darwin Singleton from one of the local TV stations narrated.
Scott Eldrige as HG Wells and Carlitta Wimberly as Carnivale' our emblem.
MOWA band of Choctaw Indians and reinactors recreate the scene at Twenty Seven Mile Bluff the site of the first Mardi Gras celebration. They dance to a Indian friendship dance called Stealing Partners and pull people from the audience to join in.
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Moonpie Recipe
I found this on my computer. I don't know where it came from unless it is something my dad wrote for a tv cooking show he did a while back to promote our cookbook. Anyway here is a sneak peak into our book. I thought it was neat.
Mardi Gras, one of the Gulf Coast’s oldest celebrations. If you have lived in Mobile for any extended period, it is likely you have heard of this event. The desert that I will be showing you how to prepare today is Banana Butterscotch Elexis. This particular recipe comes from the cookbook ‘Death by MoonPie’. The author of this confectionary compilation is Doris Dean, with production by Lillian Dean and Wayne Dean. The inspiration for this desert came from Elexis the first, the original King of The Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association.
The last float has rolled down Government Street and downtown is littered with the memories of another fabulous Carnival season. As you walk sadly back to your car with a garbage bag full of throws, you wonder ‘What am I going to do with all of these MoonPies’! Well, there is no need to worry; I will show you one way to diminish your domestic stock of MoonPies. Now let’s put on those sequined aprons, and let the good times roll!
The first thing you need to do is gather together a few of those mystical treats, four to be exact, and follow me into the kitchen. If you are reading this I guess you followed my first instructions and found your way to the kitchen. You will just need to gather together a few more ingredients to get started. These ingredients are as follows: one cup of dark brown sugar, two tablespoons of light cream, three tablespoons of butter, one-eighth teaspoon of vanilla extract, four bananas, one-half cup of whipping cream, and one-fourth cup of chopped nuts. As I said you will need four MoonPies, not to be confused with the more common party pies, but they will work also. You will also need a small boiler, a fork, a spoon and four individual desert dishes.
We are ready to begin our carnival creation. First cut each MoonPie in half through the center. Next, place one-half of each MoonPie in one of the individual desert dishes, puncturing each pie all over with a fork. This last step is to make sure our delectable topping seeps into every pore. Now slice one banana over each MoonPie half. Then you are ready to prepare the butterscotch topping. Combine in your small boiler; the dark brown sugar, light cream, butter and vanilla. Cook over a low flame if you are using a gas range or a low setting if you have an electric stove. Stir constantly until the sugar is melted and bubbling. Now pour the mixture over the MoonPie halves and place the other half of the MoonPie on top. Finally, spoon on the whopped cream and nuts to top it off. This should be served immediately.
If you are looking at a table full happy revelers then I guess you have followed the instructions correctly. If you thought this recipe was delicious and simple to prepare then you need to take a look at the cookbook mentioned in the first paragraph ‘Death by MoonPie’. This book contains MoonPie recipes for all occasions as well as many historical facts about Mobile Mardi Gras. When all your friends start asking you, what do you want with those MoonPies, give them a wink and a hearty Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!
Mardi Gras, one of the Gulf Coast’s oldest celebrations. If you have lived in Mobile for any extended period, it is likely you have heard of this event. The desert that I will be showing you how to prepare today is Banana Butterscotch Elexis. This particular recipe comes from the cookbook ‘Death by MoonPie’. The author of this confectionary compilation is Doris Dean, with production by Lillian Dean and Wayne Dean. The inspiration for this desert came from Elexis the first, the original King of The Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association.
The last float has rolled down Government Street and downtown is littered with the memories of another fabulous Carnival season. As you walk sadly back to your car with a garbage bag full of throws, you wonder ‘What am I going to do with all of these MoonPies’! Well, there is no need to worry; I will show you one way to diminish your domestic stock of MoonPies. Now let’s put on those sequined aprons, and let the good times roll!
The first thing you need to do is gather together a few of those mystical treats, four to be exact, and follow me into the kitchen. If you are reading this I guess you followed my first instructions and found your way to the kitchen. You will just need to gather together a few more ingredients to get started. These ingredients are as follows: one cup of dark brown sugar, two tablespoons of light cream, three tablespoons of butter, one-eighth teaspoon of vanilla extract, four bananas, one-half cup of whipping cream, and one-fourth cup of chopped nuts. As I said you will need four MoonPies, not to be confused with the more common party pies, but they will work also. You will also need a small boiler, a fork, a spoon and four individual desert dishes.
We are ready to begin our carnival creation. First cut each MoonPie in half through the center. Next, place one-half of each MoonPie in one of the individual desert dishes, puncturing each pie all over with a fork. This last step is to make sure our delectable topping seeps into every pore. Now slice one banana over each MoonPie half. Then you are ready to prepare the butterscotch topping. Combine in your small boiler; the dark brown sugar, light cream, butter and vanilla. Cook over a low flame if you are using a gas range or a low setting if you have an electric stove. Stir constantly until the sugar is melted and bubbling. Now pour the mixture over the MoonPie halves and place the other half of the MoonPie on top. Finally, spoon on the whopped cream and nuts to top it off. This should be served immediately.
If you are looking at a table full happy revelers then I guess you have followed the instructions correctly. If you thought this recipe was delicious and simple to prepare then you need to take a look at the cookbook mentioned in the first paragraph ‘Death by MoonPie’. This book contains MoonPie recipes for all occasions as well as many historical facts about Mobile Mardi Gras. When all your friends start asking you, what do you want with those MoonPies, give them a wink and a hearty Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!
My Seventh Joe Cain Day Parade
I was looking through some old pictures and found these. This is from the Joe Cain Day parade when I was six years old. I have been parading in this parade since I was 2 weeks old so this was my seventh parade in this organization. How many people have paraded in more that 65 Mardi Gras parades before the age of 35? Please I want to know leave a comment. I had my picture in the paper the first time I ever paraded with a caption 'Mobile's youngest reveler'. My love and dedication to Mardi Gras has not diminished since that day.
Back then the parade ended with a celebration and picnic in the Church Street Graveyard. It was that way for many years until some people started complaining. I have so many wonderful memories of Joe Cain back then. Oh and I am officially a charter member of the Joe Cain Society and have the certificate to prove it.
In the early day their were tons of people that walked in the parade. We walked every year. I love walking in that parade because you are right there with the crowds of people and you can interact with them more. Years later after my dad became the emblem, Chief Slacabamarinico, we rode in the wagon leading the parade. Even then some years I would roller skate behind the wagon or get on and off the wagon during the parade. In recent years I decided to start walking again.
Anyway, here are the pics I thought they were neat. The other people in the pictures are my mom and dad and my sister is in the stroller. She was a about a year old. In the picnic picture my Aunt Liss who passed away last year was with us.
Back then the parade ended with a celebration and picnic in the Church Street Graveyard. It was that way for many years until some people started complaining. I have so many wonderful memories of Joe Cain back then. Oh and I am officially a charter member of the Joe Cain Society and have the certificate to prove it.
In the early day their were tons of people that walked in the parade. We walked every year. I love walking in that parade because you are right there with the crowds of people and you can interact with them more. Years later after my dad became the emblem, Chief Slacabamarinico, we rode in the wagon leading the parade. Even then some years I would roller skate behind the wagon or get on and off the wagon during the parade. In recent years I decided to start walking again.
Anyway, here are the pics I thought they were neat. The other people in the pictures are my mom and dad and my sister is in the stroller. She was a about a year old. In the picnic picture my Aunt Liss who passed away last year was with us.
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Friday, June 17, 2005
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)