With the New Year holiday finished, the Nubian Social Aid and Pleasure Club was ready to celebrate Mardi Gras with its annual ball at the Natchez Convention Center. Under the weight of her headdress, Queen Doris Williams depended on Adrell Wright to put the finishing touches of her makeup. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

King Donald Acker waits to be introduced Saturday night.

Security officer Gwen Owens holds Donald Acker’s hat as he put the bulk of his costume on.