King Kirk Leonard hails from our "Northshore neighbors in Mandeville. He was raised in New Orleans,where he earned a bachelor's degree in Accounting from UNO and a post baccalaureate degree in Secondary Education from Our Lady of Holy Cross College. He recently retired from teaching mathematics at John Ehret and Bonnabel High School.

For the past 20 years, Kirk with daughters Emily and Mary have shared their lives with his wife Cathy. Their love and enthusiasm for Mardi Gras started early in their lives watching parades from ladders on St. Charles Avenue. Along with Kirk, Cathy and Emily expanded their enjoyment by riding with the Krewe of Iris and "King Dad" helps out by being a committee man and "bead boy" for them. This year, that enthusiasm will be celebrated with a royal ride on St. Charles Avenue and a toast to Queen Ashley and the city of New Orleans at Gallier Hall, as Kirk reigns as King Carrollton LXXXVIII.Kirk has been an active member of Carrollton since 1994 and being chosen "King" was truly a surprise for both Kirk and Cathy.

 Thanks to Carl and Margaret Templet for making dreams come true and for a year to remember!! Kirk is honored to serve as King Carrollton LXXXVIII as the Krewe honors the 200th Anniversary of Louisiana. By his royal proclamation King Kirk declares everyone to "Laissez les bon temps rouler"!!