A Buccaneer Wedding

From Larry Williamson:

On a slightly more serious note: We will also be having a re-committment wedding ceremony for some fellow Buccaneers. Doug and Wanda Dupin will renew their wedding vows starting at 1:15 p.m., Sunday, May 4th at the compound. The Captain of the Jean Lafitte Float, Reverend Larry Williamson of the Universal Life Church will officiate the ceremony. I said this was only slightly more serious.

There may be another wedding or two later in the day depending on how the first ceremony goes. A reception will follow: There will be BBQ chicken, grilled sausage, and veggies. We will cut a couple of watermelons and have some desserts. Spirituous drink will be available provided you brought your own booze or the compound kegs are still full. Join us in honoring your fellow Buccaneers.

Jean LaFitte Float to 'host the compound'

The Jean Lafitte Float members will "host the compound" on Sunday, May 4th.

Starting after noon and continuing into the evening we will have a number on contests based on things a good Buccaneer (male or female) should wear or have with them for a day of Contraband activities. The judging will probably be biased and unfair and will be based solely on the whim of judges who will be selected based on degree of sobriety. Appeals will be heard by the Captain of the Jean Lafitte Float if he feels like listening.

So, all Buccaneers come dressed and equipped in your best pirate style.

Calendar of Events

May 2008:

Thursday, May 1st
Family Night - Come in costume and welcome the kids of LC

Friday, May 2nd
The Landing - Boarding boats by 4:30

Sunday, May 4th
Splitting Image Contest - 2:00 p.m.
Buccaneer Midway Parade - 3:00 p.m.
Children's Pirate Costume Contest - 5:00 p.m.

Pictures from the Ball

Past Jean Lafitte Ball

He is presented as a "HAS BEEN". Some may think that this statement would be derogatory, but not this group of men. To be a "HAS BEEN" holds great honor. Each man who has been a Lafitte in years past stands as he is called and joins the long line of men who wore that title before he did. The line holds memories and stories that reveals both the character of a man and the history of a city and its festival. His year as Jean Lafitte is filled with many trips and appearances. And when that year is done, his name is called. He takes that walk not in costume, but in tux. He joins the line of memories and stories of a few chosen men who have honored their city in the name of Jean Lafitte.

A New Jean Lafitte

As we embark on a new Contraband Days Festival, our newest captain took to shore on April 12th at an undisclosed location (the Boat Club). Arriving with his president and lady by his side, our captain stated that the feeling was overwhelming to be greeted by cannons and gun fire. With garb designed by Kevin Hodges, our newest Jean Lafitte is none other than Russ Grantham. What a sight he is to behold in his coat of burgundy and black. Russ has already been active in his new post. He has visited 3 schools so far with many more waiting for his visit. On Sunday, April 20th, Russ officially received his new post by our newest "HAS BEEN" Bob Peloquin.

We wish Russ all the luck this Contraband season. We know that you will forever hold true to your title and represent the Buccaneers of Lake Charles well in your journey as Jean Lafitte!

Bowling For Kids' Sake

The Buccaneers of Lake Charles came en masse to help raise money for the Big Brother/Big Sister Program. At their annual Bowl for Kids' Sake, these pirates came in full garb when word got out that the theme was PIRATEY! Helping to raise about $1000 for this worthy cause, both serious and not so serious (me) bowlers took on the lanes. Many pirates stopped to pose for pictures and give away lots of booty. We all had a great time and can't wait to do it again next year.

Five O'Clock Somewhere

Pirates were seen sipping cocktails and munching on burgers at the Buccaneer spring party. Hammocks were given away to a few guests. There was dancing and merriment through the hall out at the PPG Park. A small group of pirates even tried the new playground equipment. The slides were my favorite. Of course, we all followed the rules and did not skate inside the hall. I think a good time was had by all.