February 24, 2008
Wow, what a year we just completed. But, yes it is time to put that behind us and begin plans for the 85th anniversary of the Krewe of Carrollton. The annual meeting of the Krewe will take place on Tuesday, March 11 at the Lions Club of Metairie (1627 Metairie Road) at 7:30p.m. We call this the annual meeting only because it is the night that the members elect a new Board of Directors to lead the Club for the next year. As usual there will be beer and soft drinks available. Our guest Chef will be preparing tube steaks and rolls, possibly with a Southwest touch (like maybe a little chili). I’ll try to get Lenny to spring for diced onions and cheese.
The Board of Directors consists of 20 members plus the Captain who are elected for one year terms. Everyone on the Board is eligible to run for another term if they so desire (Term limits has not caught up with us yet). To be eligible, a member must be in good financial standing and have been a member of the Krewe for five consecutive years. Anyone interested in serving on the Board should contact the Captain immediately (504-259-9774). Nominations will be submitted to the nominating committee or may be accepted from the floor. If you feel you have the TIME and DESIRE to get involved please make the phone call.
A quick thank you and congratulations to King Ralph Romaguera and his Queen, Katherine DiLeo. The two of you were grand and did a super job representing the Krewe of Carrollton on Carrollton Sunday. Of course the entire Court did a tremendous job, as I think this was one of our smoothest and prettiest Balls. Also, a special thanks to all who also participated in our repeat Ball at the UNO Arena. For those who didn’t see the Gambit newspaper our parade received our highest rating ever-4 crowns. I’m not sure if it was the Captain or the smile on King Ralph that got us that high a rating. Actually, it was everything-costumes, floats, theme, bands and the fact that our members respect the rules and traditions of Mardi Gras and wear their masks. For that, I say thank you to each and everyone of you.
For those who did not hear – our Jules Cambre Man of the Year for 2008 was Erik Youngblood. Erik was involved in many activities during the year – he cooked for many of our meetings, handled the food and beverages for the Open House, rebuilt and reclothed the Officers float (by the way the horses and Cascade Stables sent over a letter of thanks for that new float), handled the scenery for the Ball, and assisted with work around the Den – just to mention some of the things he did during the Year. On behalf of the entire Krewe I congratulate Erik on his award.
BIG EVENT: Take note of the enclosed brochure as the Krewe of Carrollton is going CRUISING. It is sure to be a great time if we can get people to jump on board. We have 50 cabins reserved but need to start making reservations now before they start releasing our rooms. Sounds like a great getaway to me. We will be leaving from New Orleans on July 21st and returning to New Orleans on July 26th. I will personally guarantee a cruise like no other with the members of this Krewe. This cruise is available to guests as well as members. It is an opportunity for the Krewe to earn a few dollars and have a great time doing it. Give it serious consideration and get your passports in order.
A special thanks to one of our out of town members who came in to ride with us again this year and left behind an extra financial token to help defray some of our expenses-primarily our Den expansion. He will go nameless, but I wanted him to know that it was not only above and beyond, but that it was certainly appreciated. THANKS AGAIN
Another bit of good news – Gene Brien is doing fine after suffering a heart attack the morning of the parade upon arriving at the Hilton. We certainly missed you that day but look forward to many rides in the future.
Dues – please send in a payment on your dues. Bring it to the meeting, mail it to the P. O. Box , or go to www.kreweofcarrollton.com and pay it online in the store section after logging in.
Seriously, we had a good time all year and we put on a good show. Please know that these things don’t just happen but it is the work of many dedicated members who make everything fall into place. We have a very dedicated Board of Directors and a hard working and hard playing group of Officers. Without their support and efforts the Krewe of Carrollton would not be looking to celebrate its 85th anniversary. Join us at the meeting on the 11th of March (and bring a dues payment with you.)
Tuesday, March 11, Annual Meeting, Metairie Lions Club
July 21-26, Carrollton Cruise
February 13-15, 2009 – Carrollton Weekend