MYSTIC KREWE de ST DENIS
HANDBOOK
2014-2019
Steve Horton, President Jim Knecht, Vice President Russell Coffey, Secretary Joe Cunningham Jr., Treasurer John Ackel, Board Member at Large Kip Fair, Board Member at Large Steve Crews, Board Member at Large Ron McBride, Past President Ben Barron, Founding Member Dan Seymour, Founding Member 2 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION...... 5
KREWE HISTORY...... 6
KREWE OFFICERS/MEMBERS RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES...... 6 Officers...... 6 Members...... 7
ANNUAL KREWE EVENTS...... 8
THE TABLEAU AND BALL...... 9 Tableau Participants...... 9 Maids...... 9 Dukes...... 10 Knights...... 10 Ladies in Waiting/Squires in Training...... 10 Princesses...... 10 Captain...... 10 Queen...... 11 King...... 11 Merrymakers...... 11 Tableau and Ball Attire...... 11 Tableau and Ball Guests...... 12 Ball Packet...... 12 Tables and their Setups...... 12 General Issues for Members and Guests...... 13 Table Partners...... 14 The Tableau/Ball Schedule...... 14 The Parade, its Floats, and its Float Lieutenants...... 15 Work Schedule for the Week of Tableau/Ball...... 15
KREWE COMMITTEES...... 17 Event Committees...... 18 Court Presentation event committee...... 18 Twelfth Night Party event committee...... 18 Captain's Party event committee...... 18 Ball event committee...... 19 Tea event committee...... 19 King/Queen Dinner event committee...... 19 Standing Committees...... 20 Duties and Responsibilities of Standing Committee Chairs...... 20 Duties and Responsibilities of Standing Committee Members...... 20
Descriptions of Standing Committees...... 20 4 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
Hospitality Committee...... 20 Bunting Committee...... 21 Clean up Committee...... 21 Dressing Room Parties Committee...... 21 Foyer Entrance Committee...... 22 Security Committee...... 22 Setups Committee...... 22 Stage Decorations Committee...... 23 Storage Committee...... 23 Tables & Chairs Committee...... 23 Table Decorations Committee...... 23 Tableau Committee...... 23 Court Subcommittees...... 23
MEMBER INFORMATION...... 26
KREWE CONSTITUTION...... 27
APPENDIX...... 33 A: NOMINATION BALLOT FOR COURT...... 34 B: FORM FOR TABLE PARTNERS (BALL)...... 35 C: BALL EVENT COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS...... 36 D: EVENT COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS 2009-2015...... 37 E: BUDGET...... 38 F: MEMBERSHIP...... 39 G. SEATING DIAGRAM FOR BALL...... 40 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 5
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of the Krewe, as stated in its Constitution, is to facilitate gatherings of the membership and at certain times the membership and their guests, in order to enjoy the company each provides. Quite simply, we exist to meet and enjoy each other's company.
But, like so many other endeavors designed for fun, a certain amount of work must be done behind the scene. To be successful a lot of things must be known, planned, and completed by many people. We have always considered ourselves a “working” Krewe under the assumption that “work” too would encourage more avenues for fun as we accomplish tasks, assuring successful events and activities of the Krewe.
The purpose of the Handbook is to explain about how things are designed to work, who is to get them done, and when things should be done. The Handbook has been prepared to further everyone's knowledge and understanding about the Krewe. Furthermore, it has been created to provide members with job/task assignments and working guidelines.
The Handbook reflects those plans, concepts, and ideas that result in the quality level of our organization. Members that acquaint themselves with jobs/tasks assigned and follow the other suggestions and guidelines provided, enhance the dignity and quality of our Krewe. Members, in the spirit of cooperation and in the sense of a positive attitude, are expected to make every effort to conduct themselves in the manner requested. This includes such examples as wearing a tux when requested, utilizing requested serving dishes at the Ball, observing the proper length of the Ball gown, ensuring that guests are the requisite age, and refraining from bringing guests to non-guest functions. Please, members read and follow guidelines and directions as provided in the Handbook!
If something seems confusing, please make it known to the President and/or Vice President. Constructive suggestions are welcomed. It is expected that revisions to the Handbook will be necessary in order to accommodate the progress of the Krewe in coming years. 6 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
KREWE HISTORY
In 1699 on a land mass to be called Louisiana, Mardi Gras was first celebrated in the West. Homesick and lonely, the explorer Iberville and his men found themselves camped near a stream on Fat Tuesday. Recalling customs of their French homeland, they celebrated this last day before lent.
For centuries, Mardi Gras celebrations have stirred excitement, fun, and frolic in Louisiana. The official colors of green, gold, and purple adorn everything. Parades, Balls, parties, Kings and Queens, float contests, dances, costumes -- the celebration has taken many forms in Louisiana creating the most spectacular Carnival this side of Rio!
Natchitoches joined the traditions of Mardi Gras in 1977 with the founding of the Mystic Krewe de St Denis. Five founding members: Dr. Ben Barron, Avery East, Dr. Dan Seymour, Richard Ware, and Robert W. Wilson, Sr., created a men's Krewe with 32 charter members, staging the first Tableau and Ball held at the National Guard Armory in 1978. To address the growing needs of the Krewe, the membership was further expanded along with moving the Tableau and Ball to Prather Coliseum in 1985, and by 1996 the Krewe had expanded to include 78 members. In 2005 the Krewe moved its Tableau/Ball to the City of Natchitoches Events Center, and to accommodate space restrictions lowered the Krewe’s membership to 73.
KREWE OFFICERS/MEMBERS RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Responsibilities/duties of officers and members are subject to change as the Krewe continues to grow and evolve. The following descriptions are general and can be expected to go beyond the items in specific situations.
Officers The President is responsible to: o Preside at meetings of the Krewe and Board of Directors and to perform such other duties that ordinarily pertain to his office. o Receive petition from one-third (1/3) of the membership and notify the secretary of the necessity to deliver written or electronic notification to the membership of the calling forth of the Krewe. o Receive notification of resignation of members and notify the Board of Directors and membership. o With Treasurer, develop and distribute an annual budget. o Maintain an accurate database of Krewe membership. o Supervise the maintenance of the Handbook. o Work with groups and individuals to continually upgrade and enhance the Krewe. o Assign jobs and responsibilities to individuals and committees.
The Vice President is responsible to: o Preside at meetings of the Krewe and the Board of Directors in the absence of the President and to perform such other duties that ordinarily pertain to this office. o Coordinate and supervise the Event and Standing committees. o Appoint committee chairs and members. o Assist the President in the duties and responsibilities of that office. o Secure Ball dates with Events Center personnel, including negotiation of annual contract for Ball and any other events.
The Secretary is responsible to: o Maintain the records of membership, record the attendance at meetings, send out written and/or electronic notifications of meetings of the Krewe, Board of Directors, and committees, and record and preserve the minutes of such meetings. o Coordinate all mailings of the Krewe outside of above. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 7
o Send written notification to a member being terminated as a member by the Board of Directors. The Treasurer is responsible to: o Have custody of all funds, accounting for same to the Krewe annually, and at any other time upon demand by the Board of Directors and to perform such other duties that pertain to this office. o Notify the Board of Directors of those members neglecting payment of annual dues or special financial assessments. o Maintain an individual account for each member and to periodically bill and collect monies owed to the account. o Disburse Krewe monies in accordance with policies and regulations of the Krewe. o Purchase liability policies for all Krewe events. o Maintain annual contracts with Events Center, including payments for rentals and fees charged by the Center. o With President, develop and distribute an annual budget. o Maintain currency with any local, state, or federal tax reporting guidelines, including the Krewe’s standing with the office of Secretary of State.
Each Member-at-Large of the Board of Directors is responsible to: o Serve as a member of the Board of Directors and to perform such duties and responsibilities in keeping with the general governing body of the Krewe as noted under the Board of Directors of the Constitution.
Members Members are expected to participate in all functions and activities of the Krewe. It is expected that each member is supportive and active in the philosophy and activities of the Krewe. Members are responsible to: Provide the President with written notification of resignation of membership from the Krewe. Attend the annual business meeting of the Krewe, meetings called forth by the Board of Directors, and meetings called forth from petition of the membership. Participate in elections of officers and elections to fill membership vacancies. Attend each special event provided by the Krewe for the membership; and to attire in the Krewe member costume (St. Denis style, hat, mask, hat, etc.), tuxedo, theme costume, or other attire specifically designated for the occasion by the Krewe’s Board of Directors. Pay annual dues. Pay special financial assessments and fines. Serve in any reasonable capacity designated by the Krewe (i.e., committee chairman, court member, officer, etc.). Submit names of persons to be considered for the Court should there be a vacancy after considering daughters and sons of members. As a committee member, contact chair or co-chair to gain understanding of duties of the committee and to obtain applicable datelines. o Attend meetings called by committee chairs or co-chairs. o Complete all jobs assigned by committee chairs or co-chairs. o Attend all work sessions announced by committee chairs or co-chairs. As a committee chair: o Meet with event committee chairs to review plans for the forthcoming event and obtain budget amounts. o Communicate with other members of the standing committee, via a meeting or by phone, and review work to be done and datelines to be met. o Periodically evaluate progress of work to ensure that datelines will be met. o Periodically inform event committee of progress being made. 8 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
o Ensure that expenditures of the committee stay within budgeted amounts. Excessive spending by the event committee must be approved in advance. Make every effort to conserve funds. Jobs that can be done by our own people should not be hired out to outsiders. If the committee can do the work and save money, it should do so. o Secure and submit to the Treasurer an invoice for all expenditures. Invoices must be submitted to the Treasurer not later than April 1. Invoices will not be paid if submitted after April 1. As a float Lieutenant: o Ensure that all members of the float Lieutenant's float committee are at the correct place doing the called for activity throughout the Tableau (obtain a reminder list from the director of the Tableau). o Direct the float and its members during the parade. Select a helper from the float committee. (Hopefully, a driver will be hired.) o Attend any Parade/Float Committee meetings. o Participate in Tableau rehearsals.
ANNUAL KREWE EVENTS
The Krewe exists to facilitate gatherings of its membership. The “official” Krewe events include:
Annual Business Meeting o All members are required to attend. Business of the meeting is to elect officers, select new members, review the budget and expenditures, and explore business matters related to the Krewe. Notices will be e-mailed to members as to location of the meeting Held in the month of May.
Court Nominations Deadline o Submit a copy of the form at the back of the Handbook and make nominations for the Court. Nominations must be submitted to the President not later than the tap of the gavel of the Annual Business Meeting in May. You can also email these to Steve Horton at [email protected] or by mail (434 Second St.).
Court Presentation Party o Typically held the 2nd Saturday in August. All members are required to attend. Date and site are always announced, and invitations are sent. Dress for this party is always SUMMER CASUAL.
Captain/Belle of the Ball Party o The purpose of this party is to honor the Captain and the Belle of the Ball for the forthcoming Ball and to kick off a period of parties, receptions, decorating floats, fitting costumes, and Tableau rehearsals. All members are required to attend, as Ball packets are delivered to members at that time. Dress includes the Krewe’s Trash Jacket and jeans.
King/Queen’s Dinner o Hosted annually on the Friday evening prior to the Ball at the Events Center. Coordinated by current King/Captain and past King/Captain, with past King/Captain chairing the event. Should the Queen’s father not be the King, her parents will also assist with responsibilities for this event.
Tableau and Ball Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 9
o Usually held in January or February but no later than 10 days prior to Fat Tuesday, all members are required to attend. The week prior to the Ball and the Sunday following should be reserved for preparations and clean-up. The Ball is formal (black tie) with specific dress codes (floor length) for wives and guests. The Ball is the main social event of the Krewe year. It is expected that approximately 730 people will attend the event held in the Natchitoches Events Center.
Planning, designing, and constructing are year-round activities. All members and wives are placed on committees to get work done. Needless to say, the event needs each member and wife understanding their role and ensuring that it is successfully accomplished. Consult the Standing Committee Section for committee assignments and guidelines for the tasks/jobs to be completed.
Date, times, and location for the Ball are determined by the President. Decoration patterns, operational guidelines, and overall structure of the Ball have been determined and are assigned to various committees to accomplish. The President of the Krewe is the ultimate authority on all decisions related to the functions of the Tableau and Ball. His word is final.
THE TABLEAU AND BALL
Tableau Participants The Tableau consists of Ladies in Waiting, Squires, Knights, Maids, Dukes, Captain of the Ball, Belle of the Ball, Queen, and King. The Court is presented to the membership during the Court Presentation Party.
The Maids, a total of six high school seniors, are daughters who are seniors in high school, not older than 20 and, when appropriate, persons selected from member nominations of non-daughter girls who have reached the same grade/age status. In the event there are more than six daughters eligible for the Court, the oldest six will be placed on the Court and the remainder placed on next year's Court. In the event there are less than six daughters eligible for the Court, each Krewe member will be asked to nominate one girl to form a pool from which the needed number of girls will be drawn to total six Maids. Maids who are daughters, and dates (and their dates), will occupy seats at their fathers' tables for the Ball. Maids, who are non-daughters of members, and dates, will occupy seats with their parents at a guest table provided by the Krewe unless seated at a Krewe member’s table. A nomination form for naming daughters for the Court and for nominating girls who are non-daughters is contained in the Appendix. Each member may nominate a non-daughter as Maid. Nominations must be submitted to the President not later than the tap of the gavel of the Annual Business Meeting in May. You can also email these to Steve Horton at [email protected] or by mail (434 Second St.).
Maids are provided a costume for the Tableau. Accessories like gloves, shoes, padding, etc., required by Maids when wearing costumes will be the Maid’s responsibility. Following the Tableau, each Maid must provide her own floor-length formal evening gown (not white) for general dancing during the Ball.
Maids must participate in all Krewe social functions during that season. They are also required to participate in ALL Tableau-related rehearsals and activities. The parents of Maids who are non- daughters are also invited to attend all Krewe social functions as guests of the Krewe. A guest table will be provided for the Tableau and Ball. During the Ball, the two parents of the Maid non-daughter must sit with the Court member’s date at the guest table OR at a member’s table, if appropriate. Note that dates MUST be at least a senior in high school. Maids who are non-daughters are assessed a $200 fee to cover expenses of the various parties and Ball. 10 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
The Dukes, a total of six, are members of the Krewe selected from a bowl containing all member names who have not been Dukes within the last seven years. The drawing will be made by the Board of Directors on or about May 15 and announced during the Court Presentation Party. Fathers of Maids escort their daughters on the Court as Dukes. Dukes will wear specific tuxedos at their own expense for the Tableau, and they can wear the same tuxedo for the Ball. Dukes are required to attend all Krewe social functions. They must attend all Tableau rehearsals and Tableau preparation activities, and they must participate in the Tableau.
The Knights are sons who are seniors in high school, or not older than 20. Knights and their dates (who must be no younger than a senior in high school) will occupy seats at their fathers' tables for the Ball. A nomination form for naming sons for the Court is contained in the Appendix. Nominations must be submitted to the President not later than the tap of the gavel of the Annual Business Meeting in May. You can also email these to Steve Horton at [email protected] or by mail.
As of the 2011 Krewe year, no non-member sons will be included in the Tableau and Ball as Knights. Dates of Maids and Knights are of special note. The members of the Krewe and particularly the Board of Directors are acutely aware that by having 17-year-old females as maids and 17-year old males as knights on the Court it is likely that their dates could be of similar age. However, in order to comply with state and local laws/ordinances dealing with the liabilities of an adult party, no guests can be under 18 years of age and must be at least a senior in high school. Parents of non-member Maids are responsible to apprise and monitor the daughter or son's date: required dress, expected behavior, and general conduct. Consumption of alcohol at any Krewe function is strictly prohibited, even with permission of parents, for persons under 21 years of age. No exception to this policy is acceptable. Minors noted consuming alcohol will be escorted from the event by his/her parents or a designated Krewe member.
Should a Knight or Maid violate this policy, they will be asked to leave the particular event, and they will forfeit their participation in the Tableau and Ball.
Daughters and sons of members who are a junior in high school are presented to the Court during the Tableau as Ladies in Waiting and Squires in Training. The daughters and sons, invited to serve as ushers by assisting with welcoming guests and collecting invitations at the front entrance and to witness the Tableau as guests of the Krewe, are seated in a special area of the arena to view the Tableau. Not invited to attend the Ball, this group is expected to depart the Events Center immediately following the Tableau. Ladies in Waiting will wear WHITE, modest, presentation dresses, and Squires in Training will wear rented tuxedos at their own expense. Ladies and Squires DO NOT BRING ESCORTS/DATES TO THE TABLEAU. Should they violate this policy, they will forfeit their participation on the following year’s Court as a Maid or Knight.
Relatives (daughters, granddaughters) of members who are in the 3rd and 7th grades ON THE DAY OF THE BALL may be presented as a Princess during the Ball. Dress will be required and specific. Nominations for Princesses are made in the same fashion as other Court members. Any questions relative to being a part of the Princess presentation should be directed to the chair of the Alumnae/Guest/Princess Committee.
The Captain of the Ball and Belle of the Ball are selected by the Board of Directors on or about May 15 and announced during the Court Presentation Party. The member selected as Captain and spouse selected as Belle of the Ball will be judged by the Board to have contributed to the Krewe in an outstanding fashion. The Captain of the Ball will be provided a costume for the Tableau, and the Belle will chose her own ensemble for the Tableau and Ball. The Captain and Belle are expected to participate in the Tableau and provide their own “stuff” for the Ball. They are also required to attend required Krewe social functions, tableau rehearsals and Tableau preparation activities. Typically the Captain is invited to participate and represent the Krewe at local Balls as visiting royalty. Participation is NOT required. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 11
The Queen is drawn from a pool of names formed by the daughters of members who were on last year's Court. The name of each candidate will be placed in a bowl the number of times equal to the father’s years of active membership in the Krewe. The drawing will be held during the Court Presentation Party. Persons whose names are placed in the pool must agree to participate in all appropriate functions of the Krewe. All nominees (both King and Queen) must be present at the Court Presentation Party. Nominations for Queen must be submitted to the President not later than the tap of the gavel of the Annual Business Meeting in May. Members can also email these to Steve Horton at [email protected] or by mail.
The Queen and her date will occupy a seat at her father's table for the Ball. The Queen will be provided a costume for the Tableau. Additionally, the Queen will attend all Tableau rehearsals and Tableau preparation activities, participate in the Tableau, and attend required all Krewe social functions. Typically the Queen is invited to participate and represent the Krewe at local Balls as visiting royalty. Participation is not required.
The Past Queen and her date must also occupy a seat at her father’s table for the Ball following the year she was presented as Queen.
The King shall be a member of the Krewe in good standing. He will never succeed himself. Usually the King is the father of the Queen, who is selected by the criteria above. However, if that person selected has already been King, the Board of Directors shall select the King. The King shall be announced at the Court Presentation Party. Additionally, the King must attend all Tableau rehearsals and Tableau preparation activities, participate in the Tableau, and attend required all Krewe social functions. Typically the King is invited to participate in local Balls as visiting royalty. Participation is not required.
Members in costume make up the Merrymakers, who play an essential role in the Tableau. Their job is to enter the arena at the beginning of the Tableau, personally welcome guests of the Krewe, liven up things, and set the stage for festivities to follow. Each member must either be in costume or be a member of the Court. The costume is required to follow the St. Denis design but is expected to vary in hats, shoes, masks, beards, etc. Members are encouraged to be creative in obtaining hats, masks, and beards. Also, members are encouraged to obtain whistles, bells, and other noisemakers to use when performing as Merrymakers.
Tableau and Ball Attire Dress for the Ball is of special importance. It is designed to be a formal affair: a Ball. Attire for members is Krewe costume for the Tableau (7:00 - 9:00) and tuxedo for general dancing (9:30 – midnight). A dressing room is available for changing prior to and after the Tableau. Members are not to be in costume in the arena area prior to 7 p.m. If an emergency develops that requires the member to be in the arena area prior to 7:00, a cover of some kind must be worn over the costume. Remember that the Tableau is a show for the audience. We do not want the costume viewed until the appropriate time during the Tableau.
Male guests are also required to wear a tuxedo and must remain dressed as such for the evening.
Female guests are required to wear formal attire. The Ball is designed to fit the classic conception of "Ball" and as such is not to be confused with a cocktail party. In addition, the Krewe takes the prerogative to dictate dress. Formal dress for the ladies is carefully defined as a floor-length evening gown. Specifically, this means the hem of the gown must reach the floor, and the gown itself must be in keeping with the concept of a Ball gown. The dress code does not include the following: pants of any kind, split skirts of any kind, mid-calf lengths, calf lengths, cocktail dresses, short hem lengths, suits, jump suits, tea dresses, etc. Quite simply, the dress for ladies is a floor-length Ball gown. Members are expected to communicate required attire to their guests. Wives (or dates) are expected to abide by the same description of formal as above.
Be aware that those not appropriately attired will not be admitted to the Ball. 12 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
Tableau and Ball Guests Each member will be authorized to invite eight persons as guests. This, of course, may be four couples or any combination of singles and couples. Guests will sit at the member's table with the member serving as host. In the event that a member and wife are unable to attend the Ball and host their guests the member's table will be closed and no guests invited. Members may not delegate or assign their empty table or seats to their table partner. A medical emergency arising after guests are invited and occurring very close to the date of the Ball should be discussed with the President prior to any action taken by the Krewe member to "close" their table for the Ball. The Krewe member who is absent is responsible to return Ball tickets to the President. The member is responsible for informing the guests of dress required, behavior expected during the Tableau and general conduct during Ball. The Board retains the specific authority to bar unruly guests from future Balls. The member accepts full responsibility for the amount of alcohol consumed by his guests and will escort guests home if he/she becomes unruly or demonstrates unacceptable behavior at the Ball. In addition, and of extreme importance, no guests seated at a member table, except Court members and their dates, may be less than 21 years of age. This applies to all members and their guests. Due to legal ramifications, the policy concerning underage guests is not negotiable. Age requirements will be monitored. Children of Krewe members may attend the Tableau and Ball as guests; however, the Krewe member accepts all responsibility and liability for his child and his/her date. Additional chairs placed at a member's table to accommodate more than the allocated eight seats for guests are not allowed at any time during the Tableau or Ball. Guests should also remain seated during the Tableau presentation so that they do not block viewing of other guests.
Effective with the 2006 Tableau, no spectator seating will be allocated. Please consider this in your planning.
Ball Packet The Ball Packet is an envelope containing tickets, table assignments, last minute information and directions concerning the Ball. The Media Committee, working with the President and vice President, prepare the packet and distribute it at the Captain's Party after the member pays his $250 cleanup deposit. Ball packets not claimed are maintained by the Media Committee and are available once the cleanup deposit is submitted.
Tables and their Setups The tables are the centerpiece of arena decorations. Your assistance is required to ensure that tables enhance rather than distract. Members should make every effort to place items on tables in a fashion in keeping with the spirit of the decorations and the Ball theme. Please read and adhere to the following guidelines. Tables are set up in a "T" or "+" configuration, with two tables perpendicular to the dance floor for member and guest seating. The third table, perpendicular to the other two, is to be used as a set-up service and underneath for storage. Tables are 2 feet wide, which will necessitate small and narrow serving dishes. The following items will be provided: Tablecloths Ice for drinks Water Table size ice buckets Soft drinks: cokes, etc. The following items will be the responsibility of the member: Hors d'oeuvres for the table Serving plates for table: silver, silver-plate, or crystal Small ice chest for storage of cold foods may be placed under the cross table Cocktail napkins Water pitcher (if needed) Liquor and additional drink mixes Sponges and dishcloths A disposable trash container (box lined with trash bag to be placed under the cross table works well) Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 13
Five votive candles (battery operated preferred) and cups that allow for adequate lighting at the table (per specifications). Due to the number of attendees and the activity at the tables, be careful with your choices of candles.
General Issues for Members and Guests The Ball is an event encompassing not only decorations and pomp but activities and behaviors essential to make the evening a success. Please note that certain Mardi Gras traditions and standards are adapted to keep the Ball from taking on characteristics of a prom, cocktail party, cotillion, or debutante Ball. The following items are presented as reminders, but where behavior is indicated, are in fact directions that are to be adhered to by all members and guests. Invitations must be presented at door for admittance. Ladies in Waiting and Squires in Training are stationed at the doors to check invitations. Food, liquor, and additional drink mixes, napkins, ice chests, and other items to be provided by members for their table must be delivered and set-up between 5 and 6 p.m. NO ADMITTANCE LATER WITH SUPPLIES. Tables are in a "T" or "+" configuration, with two tables perpendicular to the dance floor for member and guest seating. The third table, perpendicular to the other two, is to be used as a set-up service and underneath for storage. Wives (or dates) of members must be seated at their tables by 6:30 p.m. to receive guests for their tables. Everyone else must be seated by 6:55 p.m. No one will be seated or admitted into the arena after 7 p.m. Member wives (dates) are expected to model the behavior for their tables. PLEASE do not allow guests to come to your table prior to the 6:30 timeframe. Inviting guests to come in and help you makes other Krewe members and their wives uncomfortable because they are not completely dressed, their tables aren’t ready, etc. Please respect your fellow Krewe members. Members are to be in costume and in the dressing room area beginning at 6:30 p.m. Members are not to be in the arena area. The audience is expected to remain seated from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wives (or dates) of members are expected to inform their guests that the Tableau is a "show" for them and as such the audience is expected to remain in their areas. All persons close to the dance floor, especially persons seated at the center tables, must remain seated during the Tableau. If they MUST utilize the restroom, please direct them to exit the arena by using the SIDE DOORS rather than “prancing” down the promenades. The only persons possibly attending the Ball less than 21 years of age are Court members and their dates, who must be at least a senior in high school at the time of the Ball. All other guests must be 21 or older. Ushers at the entrance doors will inquire relative to age when appropriate and will not admit guests under the age of 21. THIS IS THE LAW! Local, state, and federal laws regarding possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages will be abided by. Members are responsible for the behavior of their guests. A photographer will be available for picture package purchase beginning at 6:30 p.m. that evening. Photograph package orders will not be accepted during Tableau. No one is allowed on the stage during the Tableau or Ball except the President, his Board of Directors, or his appointed designee. Any member or spouse/significant other violating this policy will be subject to a $500 fine charged to the member. A second offense will result in expulsion from the Krewe. Any guest violating this stage policy will be escorted by security out of the Events Center and will not be allowed to return during that year’s tableau/Ball. When the Ball concludes, each member must remove all trash and throw away items and place them in a trash bag placed at the end of the table. Centerpieces, etc. should not be taken as souvenirs. Any decisions regarding the Ball made by the President of the Krewe are final.
Table Partners Thirty-seven member tables and one guest table will be set up for the Ball. 72 members will share tables; one member will have his own table. Each member will be allowed to invite up to eight guests to sit at his portion of the table. The member is responsible for all aspects of food, behavior, and refreshments at his share of the table. Members are asked to select a table partner. 14 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
A form to name table partners is contained in the Appendix. It must be copied, completed, and mailed to the Krewe President by January 1. Undeclared partners will be assigned by the President and Vice President.
The Parade, its Floats, and its Float Lieutenants The Parade is designed as part of the Tableau and consists of four decorated floats. The membership is divided into four teams. Each float committee is expected to meet, plan, construct, decorate, and participate in the parade. Each float has a Float Lieutenant whose job is to ensure that members move to and participate in the appropriate activities throughout the Tableau. Specifically, the Float Lieutenant has set responsibilities. Ensure that all members of the Float Lieutenant's float committee are at the correct place doing the called for activity throughout the Tableau (obtain a reminder list from the director of the Tableau). Direct the float and its members during the parade. Select a helper from the float committee. Attend any Parade/Float Committee meetings. Participate in Tableau rehearsals.
The decorated float, which is no larger than 4 feet by 8 feet, should not exceed 6 feet wide and 11 feet in height. Float beds have been built and placed in storage ready for decorating. Decorating may begin as early as a float committee desires. Floats must be completed and placed in the Events Center by Thursday at noon so that Float Lieutenants can participate in the Thursday dress rehearsal (3:30 p.m.).
The float theme, reflective of "Mardi Gras," is open to each Float Committee. Each Committee is invited to be as creative and individual as possible to depict Mardi Gras. The Float Committee chair makes the final decision regarding float themes.
Each float should be designed to facilitate audience interaction between Krewe members accompanying the float during the parade, the float, and the giveaways available for each float. The float is to be pulled slowly, to allow accompanying members’ adequate time to enter audience seating to "present" giveaways. Krewe members can laugh, dance, move among people individually, put necklaces on people, present giveaways to people, hug and dance with guests, and in general enjoy themselves with the audience. Make gifts to people of the giveaways you have. Spread out what you give to the audience so that everyone gets something. Do not pitch items to the audience. The Merrymakers at the beginning of the Tableau will have beads designed for giving to the guests.
Work Schedule for Week of Tableau/Ball The Work Schedule for the Week of the Ball is a plan that sequences work to be done in preparing for the Ball. Committee chairs are expected to adhere to the schedule. Members should familiarize themselves with the schedule and be prepared to do the task/job as required. Members who have problems meeting the schedule should communicate with the respective Committee chair.
DAY/TIME TASK/JOB TO BE DONE
WEDNESDAY Day Erect Tableau stage (Events Center staff) Erect princess stage (Events Center staff) Inflate Balloons (Balloons Committee)
Day Bunting Committee Assemble and hang the bunting strips for ceiling first. Hang the bunting end walls and arena entrance bunting. Must complete all work for this committee no later than Wednesday night. Be sure to erect stage backdrop as well.
Day Foyer Entrance Committee Decorate Events Center foyer. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 15
Day Balloon Committee Hang Balloon bags
THURSDAY
7:30 a.m. Tables/Chairs Committee Coordinate placement of tables/chairs
Day Table Decorations Committee Decorate tables
2 p.m. Tableau Committee (sound) Arrange sound system. Must complete prior to Tableau rehearsal.
By noon Float Committees Move COMPLETED floats to the parade staging area in the Events Center foyer. Organize floats for the parade.
12:30 p.m. Court, Media committees Pictures of Court
Following pictures Court, Media, Tableau, Sound committees Full Dress Rehearsal (including EVERYTHING and EVERYONE. Past King/Queen MUST be at this rehearsal.) The rehearsal is closed. This means the Events Center will be closed during the rehearsal to only members of the Court and the above committees.
FRIDAY
4:30 p.m. All Standing Committee chairs Recheck/finalize ALL decorating
6 p.m. Princess rehearsal (with parents/grandparents)
6:30 p.m. Past King/Captain and Current King/Captain King/Queen Dinner
SATURDAY
Anytime Tableau Committee (lighting) Lights staff arrives
Day Events Center Staff Ensure that restrooms are clean and ready for Ball.
Day Security Committee Set up coat check room.
Day Setups Committee Deliver setup items.
Day Ball Event Committee Chairs Band arrives; position members/equipment 16 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
By 5 p.m. Members Members deliver food and party supplies for their tables
Day Dressing Room Party Committee Setup for dressing room party.
5 p.m. Setups Committee Busboys arrive; setup tables. Must be completed prior to 6:15 p.m. Ushers arrive to work at front entrance
6 p.m. Members Dressing Room Party
6:50 p.m. Guests/Audience Seated ready for Tableau.
7 p.m. Everyone Tableau begins.
SUNDAY
Midnight Members, guests Ball ends. Members must remove all items from tables. Items that you want must be taken home with you at this time. Items left on tables will be discarded as trash by the busboys.
9 a.m. Brunch/Court Toast Committee Continental brunch for everyone. Foyer of Events Center.
9 a.m. Members/wives Cleanup Committee Storage Committee Clean up. Everyone! Remove all materials owned by the Krewe and return to storage area. Remember to pick up your cleanup deposit check from Vice President before you leave!
By 12 noon All Committees Ensure that all items to be retained are stored.
KREWE COMMITTEES Event and Standing
Committees are assigned the responsibilities for getting the work done for the social events of the Krewe. Two types of committees have been designed: Event and Standing.
Event Committees Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 17
Event committees are composed of "general chairs" charged with the overall responsibility to plan (within established guidelines), supervise, and execute the four major social events of the Krewe (Court Presentation Party, 12th Night, Captain/Belle Party, and Ball). Persons are assigned to these committees by the President drawing members' names from a "fish-bowl" containing names of the Krewe members. The draw is a blind draw intended to make assignments in a random fashion. In other words, assignment to an event committee is determined by the luck of the draw. All members of the Krewe are assigned to one event committee during a five-year period.
The Vice President of the Krewe is responsible for advising and supervising event committee activities.
Event committees are charged with general duties and responsibilities that ensure successful events. Committees are to plan and discharge their responsibilities within the guidelines established by the President as generally noted below. Any question relative to going beyond the guidelines or in interpretation of the guidelines should be directed to the President. In addition, unless prior approval for excessive expenditures has been granted by the President, the committee must stay within its allocated budget. Requests for additional funds must be submitted to the President well in advance.
The Court Presentation event committee is to coordinate and plan the event. Guidelines include: o Members of committee take the initiative and arrange a meeting among them as early as desired to begin planning. No member of the committee may make any decision outside of the knowledge of the rest of the committee. o Party is summer casual. o Site must be obtained. o Band must be obtained. o Food must be obtained. o Program for evening is the responsibility of the President. o Attendance is mandatory. o Invitations must be sent to members. Include invitations to immediate past maids who are daughters eligible for Queen, maids, knights, squires and ladies-in-waiting and non-member parents of maids and knights, if any. The President maintains an accurate address list and will provide labels on request. o Decorating is done by the committee o Date of event must be obtained from the President. o Follow budget guidelines provided by the Treasurer.
The Captain/Belle of Ball event committee is to coordinate and plan the event. Guidelines include: o Members of committee take the initiative and arrange a meeting among them as early as desired to begin planning. No member of the committee may make any decision outside of the knowledge of the rest of the committee. o Party is casual. o Required attire is “trash jacket and jeans” for members and wives. o Site must be obtained for entertainment o Food must be obtained o Entertainment, seating, and program should follow the initiating event pattern. o Attendance is mandatory. o Invitations must be sent to members. Remember Queen and maids, knights, and non-member parents of maids and knights, if any. The President maintains an accurate address list and will provide labels on request. o Decorating is done by the committee. o Date of event is typically no less than 2 weeks before the Ball. o Follow budget guidelines provided by the Treasurer.
The past Queen, her Mother, and the Captain’s Wife annually will host a Tea to honor the reigning Queen. 18 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
o Though the invitation list may include guests outside the Krewe membership, all Krewe members’ wives are invited as well as the current court and non-members’ mothers. o Decorating is done by this group. o Food and drink must be obtained. o Date of event must be confirmed by the President. o Follow budget guidelines provided by the Treasurer.
Though not an event committee specifically, the King/Queen Dinner is hosted annually on the Friday evening prior to the Ball at the Events Center. It is hosted by current King/Captain and past King/Captain; however the past King/Queen/Captain accept responsibility for its coordination. Should the Queen’s father not be the King, her parents will also assist with responsibilities for this event. Guidelines include: o Members of committee take the initiative and arrange a meeting among them as early as desired to begin their planning. o Attend planning meeting with President and vice President on the third Sunday in May. o Party is very INFORMAL. o Food must be obtained…possibly jambalaya or pizza. o Attendance is encouraged. o Include an announcement for this party in each member’s packet that is given at the Captain’s Party. Remember Queen and maids, knights, and non-member parents of maids and knights, if any. o Date of event changes based on that year’s Ball date; must be obtained from the President. o Follow budget guidelines provided by the Treasurer.
Standing Committees Standing Committees are charged with the responsibility to execute duties assigned the committee. The President assigns committees and chairmen. Assignments can change from year to year.
Every effort has been made to place people on committees of their choice. To those persons for which a mistake has been made or that it was not possible to place as requested, every effort will be made to continue to improve the assignments. Please be aware that jobs assigned which go undone must be picked up and completed by someone else on the committee. In other words, IF YOUR JOB IS NOT DONE, SOMEONE ELSE WILL HAVE TO DO IT. We need each person to understand their job and to complete the job as called for in the standing committee guidelines. If this is not possible, contact the committee chair immediately and resolve the problem. If you wish to be replaced on a committee, submit your name and potential replacement to the Vice President.
Every effort will be made to honor requests unless a suitable replacement is not available, or the change is untimely and may impact the operation of a Krewe event.
Both the standing committee and the Float/Parade committee assignments are listed on the same document in the Appendix.
Duties and Responsibilities of Standing Committee Chairs Standing committee chairs and co chairs are expected to familiarize themselves with the job to be done and assume responsibility to cause it to happen. Guidelines include: Meet with event committee chairs to review plans for the forthcoming event and obtain budget amounts. Communicate with other members of the standing committee, via a meeting or by phone, and review work to be done and datelines to be met. Periodically evaluate progress of work to ensure that datelines are met. Periodically inform event committee of progress being made. Ensure that expenditures of the committee stay within budgeted amounts. Excessive spending must be approved in advance by the event committee. Make every effort to conserve funds. Jobs that can be done by our own people should not be hired out to outsiders. If the committee can do the work and save money, it should do so. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 19
Secure and submit to the Treasurer an invoice for all expenditures. Invoices must be submitted to the Treasurer not later than April 1. Invoices will not be paid if submitted after April 1.
Duties and Responsibilities of Standing Committee Members Committee members are expected to familiarize themselves with the job to be done and assume responsibility for contributing their share of the work. Guidelines include: Contact chair or co-chairs to gain understanding of duties of the committee and to obtain applicable datelines. Attend meetings called by chairs or co-chairs. Complete all jobs assigned by chairs or co-chairs. Attend all work sessions announced by chairs or co-chairs.
Descriptions of Standing Committees The Hospitality Committee is responsible for the areas of alumnae, guests, and princesses. o The Saturday Morning Ladies Social part of this committee is responsible for designing, coordinating, and conducting the party, which is held approximately every five years. o The Alumnae part of the committee is responsible for coordinating previous Court members’ participation in the Tableau during identified years. Communication with Tableau Committee chair is essential. Guidelines include: . Obtain names of daughters of members previously serving as Court members. . Contact each maid alumnae to determine if they want to be presented during Tableau. . Obtain information on each maid alumnae and have it available on a 3 x 5 card for the director of the Tableau. . Supervise the presentation of the maid alumnae. o The Guests part of the committee is responsible for Krewe guests for the Tableau and Ball. Guidelines include: . Coordinate the invitations, table, catering, and seating of the Krewe guests for the Tableau and Ball. The guests are seated at the designated tables and consist of the maids (non-daughters) and their dates, parents of the maids (non-daughters), and the narrator and his/her wife or husband. The Krewe pays for catering the table. Coordinate with the Treasurer for budgeting/payment information. o The Princess part of the committee is responsible for identifying princesses for the Tableau and Ball. Guidelines include: . Obtain nomination list from the President, which includes names of those “princesses” who are either in the 3rd or 7th grade ON THE DAY OF THE CURRENT YEAR’S BALL. . Meet with Krewe President to identify requirements for the Ball, i.e. white dress for the presentation, arrival time for Ball, pickup time for Ball, etc. . Coordinate with media co-chair (publicity) about photographs, etc. for local newspaper. o The Court Toast part of the committee is responsible for making arrangements for the Court to participate in Krewe toast during Tableau. Guidelines include: . Consult with vice President about purchase of goblets for Court. . Arrange for helpers during toast. . Obtain champagne for toast. . Just prior to toast, distribute champagne to Court (non-alcoholic equivalent must be provided to Court members under age 21. . After toast, collect champagne glasses from Court. o The Cleanup Brunch part of the committee is responsible for planning and coordinating the brunch held the Sunday morning after the Ball. The concept is to eat a continental-type breakfast together before and during the Events Center clean up. Guidelines include: . Provide food and drink. . Set up in foyer of the Events Center. . Remove items after brunch is completed. 20 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
The Bunting Committee is responsible for obtaining, sewing, storing, and hanging all bunting and cabling for the arena area of the Events Center for the Ball. Guidelines include: o In accordance with decoration scheme for Events Center, design, purchase, and sew all required bunting. o Remove bunting and cabling from storage and hang according to decoration scheme for Events Center. o On Sunday following Ball, take down all bunting and cabling in arena area and place in storage.
The Clean up Committee is responsible for clean up after the Ball. Guidelines include: o Develop and implement plans to facilitate clean up of Events Center on Sunday following Ball. Use of busboys during Ball for cleanup is directed by Setups committee chair. o Develop clean up procedures for members to follow during Ball. Place clean up directions in Ball Packet which will be distributed by the media committee at Captain's Party.
The Dressing Room Parties Committee is responsible for planning and executing a pre-Tableau dressing room party for members and the Court. Guidelines include: o Plan refreshments and decorations for party. o Obtain refreshments and supplies and have them available beginning at the time members are required to be in the dressing rooms. o Keep minors out of party areas. Party areas are cleaned by this committee on the Sunday following Ball. o Assure supervision of dressing rooms during Tableau to protect member belongings and food/bar setup
The Foyer Entrance Committee is responsible for planning and appropriately decorating the Events Center entrance and foyer. Guidelines include: o Keep minors out of party area. Party area is cleaned on the Sunday following Ball. o Plan, design, purchase materials, and decorate area. o Coordinate with media chair/co-chair and contracted photographer about appropriate decorations for pictures. o Coordinate with parade chair about placement of floats prior and during Ball. o Remove materials from storage and decorate at time noted on Work Schedule for Ball. o During scheduled clean up time, remove materials from decorated area and place in storage.
The Security Committee is responsible for supervising the coat check room, collecting tickets at front door, maintaining front door security, maintaining back door security and general security for Ball. Guidelines include: o Plan, organize, and supervise coat check room. o Arrange for workers in coat check room. o With Dressing Room Parties chair, coordinate supervision of dressing rooms during Tableau to protect member belongings and food/bar setup o Arrange racks, hangers, and tags for coat check. Develop and use a coat check system. o Arrange security for Ball (6 required): in coat check room, throughout building, front door, rear of Events Center and in parking areas outside the Events Center. Coordinate security plan with Events Center staff. o One security person should be employed for the coat check room, one for the front entrance of the Events Center and one for the rear area of Events Center. These persons should be directed to protect property of Krewe during the Tableau and Ball and to ensure that unauthorized personnel are not in the Events Center. The other three security staff is assigned at the discretion of the chair. o The coat check security person oversees the coat check room. o The front security guard remains in the foyer close to the front door and provides back-up for the ushers at the front door. Periodically check to ensure that all doors are locked and no unauthorized persons are in the Events Center. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 21
o Verify that all fire exits are visible and not blocked o The rear area of Events Center security guard oversees the area behind the stage, the halls on the sides of the Events Center, and ensures that all outside doors are locked. The guard will be directed to check all persons in assigned areas who are not in costume, not wearing a tux, and not in a Ball gown. Any person not fitting the above descriptions will be escorted to the front door of the Events Center and the chair of the Security Committee contacted before further action is taken. o Employ two front door ushers to check and collect tickets and invitations as guests arrive for Ball. Usher directs spectator ticket holders to their seating area. Usher directs Ball participants to their seats. Use responsible, mature people for these positions. o Front door ushers remain at the arena entrance throughout the Tableau. Arrive at 6 p.m. Once they leave following Tableau, security guard maintains this post. o The front door usher works with security personnel to provide general security for evening. o Arrange some type of appropriate dress for ushers. o Remove from the Events Center ANYONE who is not 18 years of age. o Ensure that coat check area is cleaned on Sunday following Ball. o Ushers should be dressed in black pants, white shirts and black bow ties.
The Set-ups Committee is responsible for purchasing, placing/replenishing on tables and cleanup of party set-ups for Ball. Guidelines include: o Purchase and have set-ups delivered for Ball to a specified location at the Events Center. o Set-ups must be delivered morning of the Ball. o Make arrangements to have ice boxes delivered to store bags of crushed ice until needed. o Set-ups include plastic cups, ice, ice buckets, and soft drinks (Cokes and 7-Ups). o Hire bus-boys to place set-ups on tables and replenish set ups as needed. o Utilize bus-boys to clean up immediately at end of Ball. Cleanup will include removing all set- ups, left-over food, and trash left on tables. Make arrangements ahead of time with the Events Center staff to have trash bins available. Bus-boys must be especially careful to remove all ice, water, and other liquid from arena floor prior to completing their work.
The Storage Committee is responsible for developing and maintaining the storage area. Guidelines include: o Secure a large storage area. o Maintain security for storage area. Maintain keys to be checked out to committee chairs as requested. o Assist various committees to arrange space in storage area. o Coordinate with various committee chairs to arrange movement of supplies and materials from storage area to the Events Center and then back to the storage area following the Ball. o Preceding and following Ball, supervise removal, inventory, and placement of items in storage. o Arrange for pest control services for storage area.
The Tables & Chairs Committee is responsible for obtaining tables and chairs and placing them in arena for Ball. Guidelines include: o Work with Events Center representative to obtain needed tables and chairs. o In time specified in Work Schedule for Ball, place tables and chairs in accordance with decorating scheme for Ball.
The Table Decorations Committee is responsible for planning, designing, constructing, and placing table decorations. Guidelines include: o Develop decorations in accord with Ball theme. Electrical items must be designed for the committee to put up and take down. o Decorate tables at time specified in Work Schedule for Ball. 22 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
o During clean up on Sunday following Ball, remove all decoration items from tables and place in storage.
The Tableau Committee chair is mainly responsible for the Tableau, script, sound/music, and lighting. Additionally, several subcommittees serve at the direction of this committee chair o The Tableau committee is responsible for designing, planning, directing, and executing the Tableau. Guidelines include: . Tableau theme must coordinate with costumes. . Develop a script for the Tableau. The "General Pattern of the Tableau" must be followed. Any deviations must be approved by the President. . Determine sound and music requirements for Tableau. . Arrange for proper equipment and support personnel for meeting sound requirements for Tableau. . Using script, plan Tableau music. . Plan, design, and arrange for lights for Tableau. The lights must fit decorating scheme approved for arena. Obtain spot lights and operators for Tableau, as well as arena ceiling lights to fit requirements for Tableau. . At time specified in Work Schedule for Ball, conduct a dress rehearsal for Tableau. The parade committee co-chair and each float Captain must participate in rehearsal. The floats may take part in rehearsal. o The Court Committee is responsible for coordinating and organizing members of the Court in order to guide them through the various functions and responsibilities. Guidelines include: . Assist the President in the Court Presentation Party. . Meet with the Court and the President during September to begin preparations for the Ball. . Advise the Court on what is expected of them. . Communicate with Court members to ensure they are in attendance for all activities. . Coordinate with Tableau committee chair in obtaining information relevant to Tableau script. . Coordinate with media committee co-chair in providing information on Court to area media. . Store and have available the crowns and scepters for the King and Queen. Make sure these are available for the Court Presentation Party. . Coordinate squires and ladies in waiting throughout Ball season. o The Costumes Committee is responsible for renting, obtaining/returning, fitting, storing, and securing Court costumes for Ball. Guidelines include: . Secure and maintain an annual contract to rent all Court costumes for Ball. . Determine theme for Ball from costume leaser as early as possible and report to Tableau chair. . Arrange to obtain and return all Court costumes for Ball. . Arrange security and storage for Court costumes. . Assign costumes to Court members. . Arrange for alterations of costumes for Court members. o The Balloon Committee is responsible for releasing Balloons during the Tableau. Coordination with the Tableau committee chair is essential. Guidelines include . Obtain Balloons, approximately 12,000 in Mardi Gras colors (6 bags) . Obtain equipment and inflate Balloons no earlier than Thursday. . Design system to release Balloons from ceiling above bunting. . Arrange to release Balloons when the Krewe members enter the arena for the Grand Finale. . Work with Tableau Committee chair concerning appropriate time for hanging of Balloons so as not to interfere with Tableau rehearsals. o The Parade/Float Committee is responsible for the parade and the floats. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 23
. This committee is responsible for organizing, coordinating, and supervising the Tableau parade. In addition, the committee is responsible for construction, maintenance, and storage of float beds. Float Lieutenants are part of this committee. Guidelines include: The chair is responsible for construction, maintenance, and distribution/storage of float beds. The chair is also is responsible for organizing, coordinating, supervising and conducting the Tableau parade. Maintain the float beds. Ensure that float beds are kept in storage. Periodically check with float committee chairs to ensure that float decorations are progressing. Coordinate delivery of floats to Events Center. Coordinate and supervise parade during Tableau. During clean up on Sunday following Ball, check to be sure that each float bed has been cleaned and placed in storage. Lieutenants meet with committee chair to plan Tableau parade. Chair and Float Lieutenants organize the committee to design and decorate a float for the Tableau parade. Select a place for decorating the float. Committees should make every effort to keep their float decoration secret from other float committees. Obtain float bed from storage and move it to location that will be used as decorating site. Float decorating should be completed Wednesday before Ball. On Thursday by noon, move float to area of Events Center arena. Coordinate move with chair of foyer/entrance committee. Work with throws/beads committee to provide throws for each float. o The Throws/Beads Committee is responsible for buying and organizing throws and beads used in Tableau. Guidelines include: . Work with vice President to determine quantities to purchase. . Create two collections of throws and beads: one collection for merrymakers and one collection for parade. The parade collection should be twice as large as the merrymakers' collection. Divide merrymaker collection and place each member's portion in an individually labeled (by name) sack. Divide parade collection and place each float's portion in an individually labeled sack. . Distribute merrymaker labeled sacks to members just prior to Tableau. o The Media Committee is responsible for publicity and packets. . The Packet part of the committee is responsible for designing, printing, and distributing programs, tickets, and invitations for Tableau and Ball. In addition, the committee will prepare Ball packets for distribution at Captain's Party. Guidelines include: Design, print, and place Ball programs on tables. Design, print, and distribute invitations for Ball. Distribute invitations in the Ball packet. Design, print, and deliver spectator seat tickets to each member who orders. Work with President to develop Ball packet in accord with description mentioned earlier in Handbook. Distribute Ball packets and collect cleanup deposits at Captain's Party. o The Publicity part of the committee is responsible for news releases about the Krewe. Guidelines include: . Develop a news release immediately following Court Presentation Party announcing Court, including Captain, for forthcoming Ball. Include pictures in news release. . Three weeks prior to the Ball, develop a news release describing forthcoming event. Include individual pictures of all dukes and maids, and an accompanying story. . Make arrangements to have a color picture of the Captain and Belle published in the Natchitoches Times on Sunday prior to the Ball. 24 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
. Make arrangements to have a color picture of the King and Queen published in the Natchitoches Times on Sunday immediately following Ball. This picture should be scheduled the week prior to the Ball, once the costumes have arrived. . With President/board, arrange for a photographer to photograph party pictures of Ball: Tableau, Court, individuals, and other interesting shots. . Coordinate with Hospitality Committee concerning photography/information regarding princesses of the Court. . As soon after Ball as possible develop a news release describing the event. Include pictures of Court in costume and full Court. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 25
KREWE CONSTITUTION—amended May 20, 2012
Article I--Name
1. The name of this organization shall be the Mystic Krewe de Saint Denis, hereinafter referred to in this document as the Krewe.
Article II--Objective
1. The object of the Krewe shall be to facilitate gatherings of the membership and at certain times the membership and their guests in order to enjoy the company each provides.
Article III--Meetings
1. Section 1--Annual Meeting. The Krewe shall meet annually in May, a date determined by the president and board of directors. 2. Section 2--Call Meetings. The Krewe may be called forth under the following conditions. a. The Krewe shall be called forth for meetings at those times designated by the board of directors. Notification in the form of mail, electronic mail, or text to the membership shall be delivered in the event of such meetings. b. The Krewe shall be called forth for meetings at those times designated by petition of one third of the membership to the president. Notification in the form of mail, electronic mail, or text to the membership shall be delivered in the event of such meetings.
Article IV--Membership
1. Section 1—Membership of the Krewe. Membership shall be by invitation of the Krewe. Membership is open to any person achieving a successful election by the Krewe. a. The Krewe shall be composed of seventy-three (73) Active members (AM) who have Natchitoches Parish as their principal place of abode. b. The Krewe may select Legacy members (LM) at its discretion who have Natchitoches Parish as their principal place of abode. c. The election to AM shall be accomplished in the following manner. i. Each AM may submit to the electorate a list of prospective candidates. ii. A composite of all names submitted shall be made and provided to the electorate and a discussion on the names shall be entertained by the president. iii. From the composite, each member of the AM shall rank the prospective candidates in order of preference to the extent of the number of members to be selected; the highest preference receiving the equivalent to the maximum number to be elected. i.e. If there are 10 members to be selected, the first preference would receive a total of 10 preference points and the last preference, number ten, would receive a total of one preference point. The remainder of the prospective candidates not ranked would receive no points iv. The prospective members shall be ranked by the AM according to their total number of preference points in descending order from highest to lowest. v. Those prospective candidates having the highest composite total number of preference points, to the extent of the number to be selected, shall then be presented as candidates one at a time to the electorate for approval or disapproval. i.e. If there are 10 to be selected, the 10 with the highest total preference points would be presented as candidates. vi. Those candidates receiving a positive approval of greater than ninety (90) percent from the AM shall be approved for membership. Those candidates receiving ninety (90) percent or less shall be placed back into the category of prospective candidates. 26 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
vii. The president then entertains discussion on the composite of the names remaining, to include those prospective candidates failing to receive approval from the AM. From that composite each AM shall then rank the remaining prospective candidates in order of preference to the extent of the number of members remaining to be selected; the highest preference receiving the equivalent to the maximum number remaining to be selected. i.e. if there were 10 members initially to be selected and after the first presentation for approval or disapproval, four members were approved, then the remaining number to be selected would be six (6) and the highest preference vote to be given the first preference would be six (6) votes. viii. The prospective candidates shall then be ranked according to their total number of preference points in descending order from highest to lowest. ix. Those prospective candidates having the highest composite total number of preference points, to the extent of the number of members to be selected, shall then be presented as candidates one at a time to the electorate for approval or disapproval. x. Those candidates receiving a positive approval of greater than ninety (90) percent of the active membership shall be approved for membership. Those candidates receiving ninety (90) percent or less shall be placed back into the category of prospective candidates. xi. Thereafter, further discussion is held by the electorate and the above procedures repeated until all the positions are filled. d. Special considerations for membership shall be accomplished in the following manner: i. Should a deadlock occur after three unsuccessful approval votes at 90%, a 75% approval vote will be required for the fourth vote. Should the deadlock continue to occur after the fourth vote, a 51% approval vote will be required for the fifth vote. ii. Prior to nomination of new AMs, the Krewe shall consider the nomination of former AMs who were members of the Krewe for at least 10 years and left the Krewe in good standing. 1. Nominations to fill vacancies shall be considered first from a list of former members requesting AM (if any). Acceptance of membership from this list will be determined from a 90% approval vote of those members present at the meeting. 2. In the event that more than one name is submitted for membership from a list of former AMs who meet the requirement stated above, AMs will, by secret ballot, rank those members. The former AM with the highest number of votes will be considered first. 3. If there are no names submitted, the Krewe will follow the nomination procedure outlined in Article IV Section 1 (c). iii. In the event an AM in good standing desires to resign his membership and pass the vacancy to his son, the member, prior to his resignation, will submit his request prior to the annual meeting to the president and will be considered by the membership prior to election of AMs. This act must be approved by 90% of those AMs present at the meeting. The father who resigned will not be present for this vote. iv. In the event that an AM desires to submit a nomination for a LM, the following conditions must be present 1. The LM must be the natural or adopted son of the AM who is in good standing with the Krewe. 2. The LM must be at least 30 years of age. 3. Only one son of an AM may hold LM. 4. Those candidates for LM receiving a positive approval of greater than ninety (90) percent from the AM shall be approved for LM. The AM’s father will not be present for the vote. 5. The LM may only assume membership when his father, being a current AM in good standing, resigns his active membership. 6. The LM will be required to pay all annual dues and assessments required of all AMs. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 27
7. The LM will share the AM’s table at the annual Tableau and Ball. The LM will be afforded 4 of the 10 seats at the AM’s table for himself, his wife/significant other, and 2 guests; the AM will be afforded the remaining 6 of the 10 seats for himself, his wife/significant other, and 4 guests. 8. The LM may attend any and all Krewe functions; however, the LM will not hold any voting privileges. 9. The LM will be expected to complete any committee assignments or any other assignment designated by the president and/or board. 10. LM is irreversible; once a candidate accepts a LM, he may not pursue an AM unless it is his father’s AM. e. Invitations shall be personally accorded by the Krewe president to those persons achieving successful election to the Krewe. f. All actions of the Krewe during this election process remain in the confidence of the membership. 2. Section 2—Duration of Membership. Duration of all memberships shall be continuous. 3. Section 3—Termination of Membership. Termination of membership shall occur provided, a. that written notification from the member to the secretary be submitted, or b. that a member fails to pay dues/assessments based on policies in this Constitution, or c. that a member vacates Natchitoches Parish as his principal place of abode, or d. that a member fails to discharge any duties or responsibilities of a member. e. The president and board of the Krewe have final authority in the termination of a membership. 4. Section 4—Duties and Responsibilities of a Member. The duties and responsibilities of a member include: a. Attendance at all events listed below is required of all members, active and legacy, in order to remain in good standing in the Krewe. Attendance at each event should be taken by the Krewe Secretary and/or his designee, and a running tally for all members maintained by the Secretary. Each year at the annual business meeting of the Krewe the Secretary will publish a spread sheet with all members names listed and their rolling attendance percentage for the last two years indicated. Any member with an attendance percentage less than 60% will be considered to have lost their member in good standing classification, and his membership will be revoked. Required Attendance Events: Court Presentation Party- Usually in August 12th Night Party- Usually in January King/Queen Dinner -Blessing of the Tables - Friday Night prior to Ball Ball - Usually in February Annual Business Meeting - Usually first Sunday in May This means that members must make sure to attend at least six events in each two-year period. b. As AM’s, participation by nominating, discussing, and balloting in elections to fill vacancies in the Krewe, and; c. service on committees and performance of duties necessary to accomplish the task of the committee, and d. attendance at each special activity provided by the Krewe for the membership, dressed in either costume or black tie or as specifically designated for the occasion by the Krewe, and e. payment of annual dues, and f. payment of special financial assessments designated by the Krewe, and g. service in any capacity designated by the Krewe (i.e., committee chairman, officer, Court member, etc.). 5. Section 5—Vacancy in Membership. The filling of vacancies in the membership shall be accomplished at the annual meeting. The board of directors shall have the authority to call meetings for the purpose of filling a vacancy in membership at other times.
Article V—The Board of Directors
The Directors of the Krewe shall include the president, vice president, secretary, Treasurer, members-at- large, active past-presidents and active founding members from the active membership. The board of directors shall meet at the discretion of the president. 28 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
1. Section 1—Duties of the Board of Directors. The board of directors shall be responsible for executing duties including a. Calling forth of the Krewe for meeting, and b. Electing officers in the event of vacancy, and c. Electing members-at-large in the event of a vacancy, and d. Conducting general business of the Krewe, an e. Acting on recommendations of committees. 2. Section 2—The Office of President. It shall be the duty of president to preside at meetings of the Krewe and board of directors and to perform such other duties that ordinarily pertain to his office. It shall be the duty of the president to a. Receive petition from one third (1/3) of the active membership of the necessity to deliver written notification to the membership of the calling forth of the Krewe. b. Receive notification of resignation of members and notify the board of directors and membership. c. With Treasurer, develop and distribute an annual budget. d. Maintain an accurate database of Krewe membership. e. Supervise the maintenance of the Handbook. f. Work with groups and individuals to continually upgrade and enhance the Krewe. g. Assign jobs and responsibilities to individuals and committees. 3. Section 3—The Office of Vice President. It shall be the duty of the vice president to a. Preside at meetings of the Krewe and the board of directors in the absence of the president and to perform such other duties that ordinarily pertain to this office. b. Coordinate and supervise the Event and Standing committees. c. Appoint committee chairs and members. d. Assist the president in the duties and responsibilities of that office. e. Secure Ball dates with Events Center personnel, including negotiation of annual contract for Ball and any other events 4. Section 4—The Office of Secretary. It shall be the duty of the secretary to: a. Maintain the records of membership, record the attendance at meetings, send out written and/or electronic notifications of meetings of the Krewe, board of directors, and committees, and record and preserve the minutes of such meetings. b. Coordinate all mailings of the Krewe outside of above. c. Send written notification to a member being terminated as a member by president and/or the board of directors. 5. Section 5—The Office of Treasurer. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to: a. Have custody of all funds, accounting for same to the Krewe annually, and at any other time upon demand by the board of directors and to perform such other duties that pertain to this office. b. Notify the board of directors of those members neglecting payment of annual dues or special financial assessments. c. Maintain an individual account for each member and to periodically bill and collect monies owed to the account. d. Disburse Krewe monies in accordance with policies and regulations of the Krewe. e. Purchase liability policies for all Krewe events. f. Maintain annual contracts with Events Center, including payments for rentals and fees charged by the Center. g. With president, develop and distribute an annual budget. h. Maintain currency with any local, state, or federal tax reporting guidelines, including the Krewe’s standing with the office of Secretary of State. 6. Section 6—Members-at-Large (3). It shall be the duty of the members at large to: a. Serve as a member of the board of directors and to perform such duties and responsibilities in keeping with the general governing body of the Krewe as noted under the board of directors of the Constitution. 7. Section 7—The Office of Past Presidents a. All active past presidents of the Krewe may participate as a member of the Board of Directors 8. Section 8—The Office of Founding Members a. Any active Founding Member may participate as a member of the Board of Directors. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 29
9. Section 9—Election of Officers a. A nominating committee shall select and submit as recommendation, a slate of persons to the Krewe to fill the offices of secretary, Treasurer, and members-at-large. Nominations for each shall be accepted from the membership at the time of the election. Offices shall be filled by popular vote of the active membership in good standing. b. The officers will serve in the capacity for a period of five years or through re-election to a second term at the annual Krewe meeting. The vice president will serve in the same capacity but in addition serves as a “president elect” to prepare for the presidency. 10. Section 10—Vacancy of Office a. In the event of a vacancy in the office of president, the vice president will assume the office and the duties pertaining to that office. b. In the event of a vacancy in the office of vice president, secretary, or Treasurer, the board of directors will consider names from the membership to fill the vacancy. Nominations for the office shall be accepted from the membership of the board of directors at the time of the election. The office shall be filled by popular vote of the board of directors. c. In the event of a vacancy in the office of member-at-large, nominations shall be accepted from the membership of the board of directors at the time of the election. The office shall be filled by popular vote of the board of directors.
Article VI—Dues, Fees, Budget, Finances
1. Section 1—Dues a. The membership dues, regardless of status, shall be designated by the board of directors annually. Dues shall be payable at the annual meeting in May. Deadline for payment of annual dues shall be August 1 of the Krewe year. A member not paying dues by August 1 will automatically forfeit his membership, and the president will call a meeting of the Krewe on the Sunday evening following the August 1 deadline to elect a replacement member. 2. Section 2—Fees a. The board of directors shall be responsible for the establishment of special financial assessments. Special financial assessments shall be paid by each Krewe member. The Treasurer shall be responsible for providing the membership with written notification itemizing the special financial assessment established by the board of directors. Special financial assessments shall be payable to the Treasurer no later than thirty (30) days after the date of the itemized written notification. The Treasurer shall mail out a past due notice on the 30th day. If special financial assessments are not paid by the 10th day following the date of the past due notice, the board of directors shall be notified for action by the Board. 3. Section 3—Budget a. At the end of the year the board of directors shall prepare a budget of estimated income and estimated expenditures for the year, which having been agreed to by the board of directors shall stand as the limit of expenditures for the respective purposes unless otherwise ordered by action of the board of directors. b. The adopted budget shall be submitted in writing to the membership at the annual meeting. 4. Section 4—Finances a. All bills shall be paid only by checks signed by the Treasurer upon properly submitted invoices. A thorough audit by a qualified person shall be made once each year. b. The financial year shall begin at the annual meeting and end at the annual meeting in the next year.
Article VII—Committees and their Duties
The president shall designate committees to accomplish the needs of the Krewe.
1. Section 1—Committee Membership a. The president shall appoint active and legacy members to committees. 2. Section 2—Duties 30 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
a. The president and vice president shall designate duties and responsibilities of committees and will be maintained in the Krewe’s Handbook.
Article VIII—Selection of Court
The Court for the Ball shall be composed of a King, Queen, six (6) Maids, six (6) dukes, a Captain of the Ball, and (6) knights.
1. Section 1—Selection of the King a. The King shall be an AM of the Krewe in good standing. b. The King shall never succeed himself. c. The King will be the father of the selected Queen (Section 2) d. In the event that the selected Queen’s (Section 2) father has previously been King, the board of directors will select a King based on the Krewe membership. e. The King will be announced at the Court Presentation Party. 2. Section 2—Selection of the Queen a. The Queen, except as stated in Article VIII, Section 2, shall be the daughter of an AM of the Krewe in good standing. b. Except as stated in Article VIII, Section 2, the Queen shall have served the Krewe as maid in the previous Court. i. The Queen shall never succeed herself. ii. The Queen shall be selected in the manner including 1. The name of each daughter of a Krewe member who has served on a Court in the previous year shall be placed in a pool from which a name will be drawn during the Court Presentation Party. 2. The daughter’s name will be placed in the pool the exact number of years of the father’s active membership in the Krewe (determined by number of Balls participated in as an active member). 3. In the event that the Court of the previous year did not contain maids who were daughters of Krewe members, the names of daughters who served on the Court the year proceeding the previous year shall be placed in a pool from which a name will be drawn during the Court Presentation Party. 4. In the event that the two preceding Courts did not contain daughters of Krewe members, the name of those daughters to be named to the Court for the present year shall be placed in a pool from which a name will be drawn at the Court Presentation Party. 5. In the event that there are no daughters to serve on the Court in the present year from which a Queen would be drawn, the maids of the Court in the last Ball shall be placed in a pool from which a name will be drawn at the Court Presentation Party. 3. Section 3—Selection of Maids a. No more than six (6) Maids shall be selected from among the daughters and granddaughters of the AM and LM Krewe members in good standing. b. Maids shall be from seventeen (17) to twenty (20) years of age. c. The Maid must be no younger than a senior in high school. d. No Maid shall ever succeed herself as Maid. e. The AM daughter whose father has the most active years in the Krewe shall be given first priority for placement on the Court. Granddaughters of AMs will be placed after AM daughters. Daughters of LMs will be placed next using the same formula.. In the event that more than 6 are eligible for Maid, those beyond the maximum number will be placed on the following year’s court using the same procedure. f. In the event that at least six (6) daughters or granddaughters of AMs and LMs are not available to serve the Krewe as Maids, nominations of non-daughters by members will be accepted. Those names shall be placed in a pool from which the number needed to complete the Court shall be drawn. 4. Section 4—Selection of Dukes Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 31
a. The dukes shall be any AM or LM of the Krewe in good standing. b. The dukes shall be selected in a manner including i. The name of each Krewe member shall be placed in a pool from which no less than six (6) names will be selected by the board of directors. ii. Dukes should never succeed themselves within a five (5) year period. iii. Members may request to be selected as a duke to escort their daughter or relative serving as maid on the Court. 5. Section 5—Selection of Captain of the Ball a. The Captain shall be an AM of the Krewe in good standing. b. The Captain shall be selected in a manner including i. Nominations from members of the board of directors shall be taken at the time of the election, and ii. Popular vote by members of the board of directors shall elect the Captain. iii. The name of the Captain shall be announced at the Court Presentation Parry 6. Section 6—Selection of Knights a. No more than six (6) Knights shall be selected from among sons and grandsons of the AM and LM Krewe members in good standing. b. Knights shall be from seventeen (17) to twenty (20) years of age. c. The Knight must be no younger than a senior in high school. d. The AM son whose father has the most active years in the Krewe shall be given first priority for placement on the Court. Grandsons of AMs will be placed after AM sons. Sons of LMs will be placed next using the same formula. 7. Section 7—Selection of Princesses a. Relatives (daughters, granddaughters) of AM and LM members who are in the 3rd or 7th grade ON THE DAY OF THE BALL may be presented as a Princess during the Ball. Dress will be required and specific. 8. Section 8—Selection of the Belle of the Ball (BoB) a. The BoB shall be the spouse of an AM of the Krewe in good standing. b. The BoB shall be selected in a manner including i. Nominations from members of the board of directors shall be taken at the time of the election, and ii. Popular vote by members of the board of directors shall elect the BoB. iii. The name of the BoB shall be announced at the Court Presentation Party
Article IX—Amendments, Order, Quorum
The constitution may be amended at any annual meeting of the Krewe by the affirmative vote of a majority of members present, provided that notice of such proposed amendments shall have been submitted to the president and board of directors and shall have been mailed to each member at least ten (10) days before such meeting.
The current rules and regulations as specified in Robert's Rules of Order shall be executed in carrying out the business of the Krewe in accordance with the constitution.
A quorum shall be required to conduct the business of the Krewe at meetings. The president may determine that the members in attendance constitute a quorum. No proxies of any kind will be accepted for any situation.
32 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
APPENDIX A NOMINATION BALLOT: QUEEN, MAIDS, KNIGHTS, LADIES IN WAITING, SQUIRES, PRINCESSES
The King, Queen, Maids (6), and Knights (6) for the Ball are presented at the Court Presentation Party. To prevent the Krewe from overlooking a son or daughter and to offer suggestions for Maids and Knights who are non- daughters and non-sons, please cooperate in complying with the following directions.
QUEEN: Daughters who were on last year's Court as a Maid are eligible to be selected Queen for the upcoming Ball. If your daughter was a Maid last year and desires to be considered for Queen this year, please complete and mail this Ballot. Whoever is selected as Queen must be in attendance at all Krewe social events and rehearsals. MAIDS, DAUGHTERS: If your daughter is eligible to be Maid, at least a senior between 17 and 20 years, complete the Ballot. She must be available for all designated parties and social activities. MAIDS, NON-DAUGHTERS: If you desire to nominate an eligible non-daughter to be considered as Maid, complete the Ballot. In order to be eligible the nominee must reside in Natchitoches Parish, be a high school senior, be available for all designated parties and social activities and have given you her consent to be a Maid. Each Krewe member has one nomination for a non-daughter. The names of all nominees are placed in a bowl and the required number of names for the Court drawn. Each non-daughter selected is assessed $200 to cover expenses related to the Ball season. It is important that the parent(s) understand this before the nomination is submitted. Non-member maids may not serve simultaneously on both St. Denis and Dionysos courts so that more children have a chance to be recognized by both Krewes. KNIGHTS: If your son is eligible to be a Knight, at least a high school senior between the ages 17 and 20, complete the nomination Ballot below. Your son must be available for all designated parties and social activities. LADIES-IN-WAITING: If your daughter is eligible to be a Lady-In-Waiting, at least 16 years of age and a high school junior, complete the Ballot. SQUIRES: If your daughter is eligible to be a Squire, at least 16 years of age and a high school junior, complete the Ballot. PRINCESSES: If your daughter or granddaughter is in the 3rd or 7th grades ON THE DAY OF THE BALL, complete the Ballot.
------NOMINATION BALLOT------
Nominee: ______Parents: ______Date: ______Address: ______Phone: ______
CHECK APPROPRIATE BOX: ( ) Queen ( ) Knight (Son) ( ) Squire ( ) Maid (Non-Daughter) ( ) Maid (Daughter) ( ) Lady-in-Waiting ( ) Princess
______Signature of Krewe Member
One nominee per Ballot. Duplicate if needed. Ballots must be completed and received by the President, prior to the tap of the gavel of the Membership Meeting. Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 33
APPENDIX B FORM FOR TABLE PARTNERS (BALL)
Krewe Member: ______
My table partner is: ______
______Member Signature
______Date
Submit the President no later than January 1. Members from whom a table partner preference is not received will be teamed with the same partner as last year, or by the President.
APPENDIX C EVENT COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS 34 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
COURT PRESENTATION CAPTAIN/BELLE PARTY YEAR PARTY
Guidry chair Knecht chair Causey Horton 2014-2015 Crews Gentry Lindsey (Ly) Sutton Gillan Harrington B Aldredge Lipa Godfrey S McCain J Johnson (AJ) Gahagan (S) Kelly chair Friedman chair Burke Brown 2015-2016 Fair Corkern III Guillet Guidroz Harrington R Hetherwick McBride Jackson Townsend T McElwee Webb Prudhomme Wheat Evans S chair Ackel J chair Boyd McCain St Sr 2016-2017 Conine Coffey Johnson P Cunningham J Lott Lindsey Lor Parker Murchison To Townsend B Stamey Seymour chair Godfrey J chair Ackel P Ball Devargas Crews 2017-2018 Evans J Maggio Hale McCain St Jr LaCaze Scruggs Sampite Thomas Wright Barron chair Melder T chair Corkern Jr Coker Gahagan C Dubois 2018-2019 Gahagan F Melder S Hudson Murchison Ty Vienne Wolffe Cunningham R Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 35
APPENDIX D BUDGET
APPENDIX E Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Budget Vs Act for 2014-2015 OPERATIN G
INCOME Member Dues ($800 X 73) $58,400.00 Legacy Dues ($800 X 1) $800.00 Non-member court ($200 X 1) $200.00 New Member Fees (3 X100) $300.00 TOTAL INCOME $59,700.00
EXPENDITURES Krewe Operations and Contingency $7,000.00 12th Night $4,000.00 Court Presentation $4,000.00 Ball Expenditures $44,700.00
TOTAL EXPENDITURES $59,700.00
BREAKDOWN OF BALL EXPENDITURES Hospitality (toast, brunch, guests) (GahaganS) $700.00 Balloons (TownsendK) $400.00 Band (KnechtJ) $8,600.00 Bunting (CoffeyR) $200.00 Clean-up (BarronB) $300.00 Events Center (HortonS) $9,900.00 Court & Costumes (GodfreySu, DuboisP) $1,500.00 Dressing Room Parties (GuidryK) $2,200.00 Foyer Entrance (FriedmanH) $1,800.00 Lighting (SuttonM.) $2,600.00 Packet, Program (HortonE) $1,000.00 Security (ConineC) $1,400.00 Setups (HudsonR) $1,500.00 Sound and Music (GodfreyJ.) $3,000.00 Stage Backdrop (McBrideR) $1,000.00 Storage (EvansS) $2,000.00 Table Decorations (JacksonB) $1,500.00 Tableau (HortonS) $900.00 Throws and Beads (AckelP) $1,500.00 Floats (AckelJ, HarringtonB) $400.00 Queen's Tea (LottK) $800.00 King/Queen Dinner $1,500.00 Sub Totals $44,700.00 36 Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook
APPENDIX E COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS Mystic Krewe de St. Denis Handbook 37
APPENDIX F MEMBERSHIP
MEMBER INFORMATION
The Krewe is structured to meet once each year in an annual business meeting and then rely on decision making and communicating with its members based upon a database. The database consists of member names, names of wives, business phone numbers, home phone numbers and mailing addresses. It is, therefore, essential that information be accurate, be what the member desires, and that it be communicated to all members.
Names of children are not maintained in the database. Each member is responsible for naming and/or nominating his children for participation in Court functions in a timely fashion. The Membership List is located in the Appendix and will be updated annually. The lists are compiled on an annual basis.
Each member is responsible for his own data being accurate and up-to-date. Corrections to the database should be made in writing and mailed or e-mailed to the President.
A mailing label master is available to any member who needs to address correspondence to members. Contact the President for a copy of the master.