By Bobbey White
Bolivar Peninsula Lighthouse Krewe celebrated the annual Mardi Gras Ball, “It’s All About The Beads”, January 23 at Coconuts. The 2015 King Ed Riley and 2015 Queen Fran Skiles made their final walk as King and Queen of the Lighthouse Krewe before crowning the new King Matt Pace and the new Queen Gladys Pace. King Matt and Queen Gladys then gifted the crowd with beads as they Do Dah around the traditionally decorated room. The Royal Court, consisting of Danny and Shelly Butts, and Linda Calvey and Jimmy Dinkins took a turn around the room as they too gifted the crowd with beads. After the customary bow from the Royal Court to the new Royalty, a toast was offered to King Matt and Queen Gladys.
The Royal Court, along with Jesters Jimmy Lumpkins and Ange Scheibel
The Ballroom, decked out in gold, green and purple, glittered with New Orleans style and flair. “Bourbon Street” was a hit with merry makers, as many guests took turns posing for pictures in what appeared to be a New Orleans Balcony Party! A jazz band player, street signs, and jesters helped transform the Ball Room into a scene right out of NOLA!
Jerry Diaz with Hanna’s Reef Band, keep the party hopping with everything from beach sounds to honky tonk! The dance floor was rocking until the very last song.
New to the celebration this year was the Second Line Umbrella Parade!
Female guests were invited to decorate an umbrella and their escort was asked to sport a Top Hat that would impress the King and Queen. Hanna’s Reef played Mardi Gras Music as the line dance was lead by King Matt and Queen Gladys. The King and Queen then stepped out of the line to judge the couples as the Second Line passed around the room. Lydia Spirko’s beautifully decorated umbrella caught the eye of the King and Queen, and was awarded the coveted prize of Champagne & Beads!! The Lighthouse Krewe thanks all of the ladies that decorated so many beautiful umbrellas!
The Bolivar Peninsula Lighthouse Krewe would like to invite everyone to the parade on February 6th at 11:30.
[1-25-2016]
Posted in 
