We are all struggling here but we are going to make carnival wonderful this year. I received a rather bummer of an email last week from a member of the krewe of Muses. Nothing like sick and depressed when you’re already sick and depressed. The Zulu Vice-President is soliciting help from other krewes, offering a limited number of riding positions for people interested in participating in their parade. I know what an honor it is to ride and I feel bad for all the regular members who are unable to ride. I suggested perhaps people donate funds to sponsor a regular member so that they may ride. However, this could leave some riders out in the cold if there wasn’t enough for every member. So the krewe is allowing non-members to fill the vacancies.

Apparently, eighty percent of the membership of the Krewe of Zulu has been significantly impacted by Hurricane Katrina, with many losing their homes and possessions. This has put the krewe in a financial bind.

For those (if any!) not familiar with them, Zulu is a predominately African American krewe, formed in 1909, which has had a major impact on Mardi Gras history. They parade rolls on Fat Tuesday, before Rex.

Just to let readers unfamiliar with how Mardi Gras actually works, it’s locals who make it happen. Yes, some members invite friends from all over the country too. The fee for riding is $1,500, which is average for Mardi Gras krewes. Riders receive a complete ride package, including all throws, a costume, makeup and an invitation to the Lundi Gras Party. Both men and women are allowed to ride in Zulu.

I am happy to report that I followed up with Vice-President, Naaman Stewart, today via email and he said things are going well regarding rider recruitment.

Zulu coconuts are always, THE throw to get . . . this year more than ever before.
Here’s their website: http://www.kreweofzulu.com/
The proclamation is interesting.

And this year marks the 150th Anniversary of Mardi Gras so it just had to happen.

Related posts:

1. Krewe de Vieux Rolls : Saturday 7pm
2. First Time Rider
3. Calling All Krewes For Post-Mardi Gras Cleanup
4. Krewe De Vieux
5. Cela Etait Levee!