By Marilyn Miller
The Krewe des Ambassadeurs, which was organized by the Minden Chamber of Commerce “Ambassadors” in 2001, marked the special anniversary by “Celebrating 25 Years” on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 at the Minden Civic Center.
The Krewe has grown to include members from all over Northwest Louisiana, with many from Minden, Haughton, Bossier City and Shreveport. Saturday’s event included dinner by Hugh Woods Catering, and the annual Coronation Gala, which was emceed by George E. French III.
Prior to the introduction of Royalty 25 (2026-27), the Duke of Hospitality 2023 Jerry Brannen, delivered the prayer. The Haughton High School Junior ROTC presented the Colors and the National Anthem was sung by Meredith Johnson.
French then thanked the major sponsors, TG Companies, The Gardner Group and Minden’s Finest Storage.
“We also want to recognize the wisdom, guidance, hard work and leadership of our past Captains and Royalty this evening,” French stated. The late Terry Gardner was the first Captain of the Krewe des Ambassadeurs. Those who also served terms during the first 25 years were Mahala Hutto, the late Mervin Ardoin, Vicki Cullen, the late Ralph Greer, Beverly Brown, Sarah Haynes, Tim Borst, Janis Hudson, Kenneth Buford, Paul Lopez, and William (Keith) Keen.
All past Royalty were then recognized. Outgoing King and Queen 2024 Joe Odom and Thresa Mouser received a standing ovation following the introductions of Captain 24 Andy Fish, Duke & Duchess of Hospitality Ricky Thomas & Claudine Adams Thomas, Duke & Duchess of Prosperity Rob Harper & Melanie Frye McCullough, and Duke & Duchess of Philanthropy Pat Procell & Angie Edwards.
“Now let’s get this tableau started by introducing our Captain 25, Kenneth Buford,” French said, bringing forth the lifelong south Bossier resident. He and his wife, Laurie, have co-owned Steel Drafting Services, Inc. since 1997. They have two sons, Jason and Ben, and three grandchildren. Both Kenneth and Laurie have been members of the Ambassadeurs Krewe for 20 years, serving in many board and royalty positions. Kenneth then made his way through the crowd of some 500 people, throwing gifts and beads.
Kenneth then introduced Captain-elect, Kathi Smith, who will serve as Captain 26 next year.
Completing the line of Royalty 25 are Duke & Duchess of Hospitality Adam Woodall and Susan Odom; Duke & Duchess of Prosperity James Helton and Lydia Helton; and Duke & Duchess of Philanthropy Tim Miller and Marla Poirer.
Finally to be sashed and crowned were Queen 25 Kathy Long and King 25 Donnie Irby. Kathy is a retired resident of Haughton, where she has “built a life centered around family, friendship, faith and joy” – 47 years of that being with husband, Mark. They have two daughters, Jeni and Jana; and two grandsons. She has been a member of the Ambassadeurs since 2021.
King 25 Donnie Irby is a founding member of the Krewe des Ambassadeurs, serving as the first Duke of Hospitality. He served in the Army Reserves, and is a partner with the Gardner Group and TG Companies, where he holds numerous professional licenses. He has served in many associations around Minden, including 20 years as chairman of the Webster Parish Fair Committee. He is also a graduate of Leadership Webster. He was the first winner of the “15 Under 40” Young Professionals in 2011. Donnie is married to Brittany and they have four children, Dylan, Emma, Gavin and Rylee.
Over a dozen groups of visitors representing Ark-La-Tex Krewes joined in to formally welcome the Krewe des Ambassadeurs Royalty 25 following the presentations and crowd walks.
The evening featured tables embellished with decorations from past events. The halls of the Minden Civic Center were also decorated with past formal wear and costumes. Mahala Hutto served as chairman of the Coronation 25 Gala.
–