Are you tired of dismal weather, the after-holiday let down and the need to lose some “holiday pounds?”

If so, you are in luck. The Mystic Krewe of Alpheus is looking for floats, bands, car clubs, motorcycle clubs, marching units and other Miss-Lou folks who are looking for a good time to come and be a part of our 2010 parade.

If you have a kazoo band we are really excited about you joining the parade! The annual Mystic Krewe of Alpheus Mardi Gras Parade will travel the streets of downtown Natchez at 6:30 p.m. Friday. Lineup for the parade will begin at 4:30 p.m. on Broadway Street.

The theme of all Alpheus activities this year is “games people play,” which will give everyone a wide range of decorative possibilities. Queen Arethusa XIX, Mary Kay Doherty and King Alpheus XIX Stan Owens will grace the 2010 parade with their royal presence and Eddie Ray, “The Gator Man,” from FM radio station KWTG, 104.7 will be the 2010 Grand Marshal. Eddie is also the program manager for FM station 107.1, KFNV The River and has been a long-time Boy Scout leader.

Mardi Gras in Natchez is always a fun event, and 2010 is shaping up to be one of the best. While Mardi Gras is a great social event it is also good for our community. Not only do we purchase supplies for our events in the Miss-Lou but the krewe gives back to the community by way of charitable donations at the end of the Mardi Gras season.

If you are ready to “Laissez les bon temps roulez” then come and join us for our parade or the 2010 Grand Ball on Saturday, at the Natchez Community Center on Franklin Street.

The special evening begins at 8 p.m. with dancing to the exciting music of The Andy Smith Band.

Tickets for the Grand Ball are $35 per person and are available at the door.

Dress for the Grand Ball is black tie, there is an open bar and food is provided. Come join us for one of the best entertainment events for the money in the Miss-Lou.

For information on joining the Mystic Krewe of Alpheus call Membership Chairman Marge Alexander at 601-660-7704.

If you want to join us for some good times and exciting Mardi Gras fun, call me at 601-334-0713.

John Goodrich is the parade chairman for the Mystic Krewe of Alpheus.