The Mardi Gras Krewe of Artemis-Springhill began the 2023 Carnival Season presenting the traditional KING CAKE to each of the townships in North Webster Parish. Mardi Gras begins each year on January 6, 12 days after the Birth of Jesus, when it is said the Wisemen discovered the Baby. The oval shape of the King Cake is to depict the route the Magi took in their quest.
A traditional King Cake has a surprise tucked inside … a plastic baby. There are many versions of what should occur when a person gets the slice of cake containing the baby. One is that person is to bring a King Cake to the next function or give a party. Mardi Gras is a celebration. Artemis highlights this great event by giving this symbol to each Mayor of Springhill, Shongaloo, Cullen, Sarepta and Cotton Valley.
Artemis members in the photos were presenter Captain Eric Simmons, Donna Waring, John Jandebeur, Joe and Terry Connolly, and Mike and Janet Reeves. Not shown was photographer for the day, Treasurer Fred Schroeder.
Captain Simmons presented King Cakes to Springhill Mayor and longtime Artemis member Ray Huddleston and to Shongaloo Mayor Tim Mouser.
Accepting for Cullen Mayor Terry Hoof were Dominique Parish, Town Clerk and Gladys Bradford, Assistant Clerk.
In Sarepta, long with Mayor Peggy Adkins is Elizabeth Simmons, Town Clerk.
Accepting for Cotton Valley Mayor Ashley Williams Jones were Tiffany M. Parish, Municipal Clerk, Amy L. Stewart, Police Clerk/Admin. Assistant, and A. Michelle Jackson, Deputy/Utility Clerk.
Artemis, in conjunction with Springhill Main Street, will visit schools and other locations on February 1, in colorful costumes and Mardi Gras attire, giving students and clients Mardi Gras throw beads. These appearances are to promote attendance in the Springhill Main Street Mardi Gras Parade to be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 4.
The Krewe of Artemis, a social and parading krewe, meets at 7 p.m., the first Thursday of each month at their den and float barn at 025 Bice Street in Springhill, La. The krewe is open to the public. One must be eighteen (18) or over and the dues are $50 a year. For any information regarding the Krewe of Artemis, you may contact Captain Eric Simmons, 318-539-5951.
