The Krewe of Justinian
The Krewe
was formed in 1994 for area attorneys,
judges, and other persons interested in the legal affairs
of the community to participate in and promote the celebration
of Mardi Gras in the Ark-La-Tex. The Krewe of Justinian
is unique in that it was the first Bar associated or legal
Krewe in the state, and possibly the country. Although the
Krewe began for the purpose of just having fun and celebrating
Mardi Gras, it has evolved into one of the largest fund
raising arms of the Shreveport Bar Association.The first
Captain of the Krewe was Neil Erwin, and royalty included King Charles
Scott, Queen Janey Pettiette and Prince Ron Weems. Justinian's first Bal
was held at the Harrah's Casino Pavillion, and was attended by a small
but enthusiastic number of Krewe members. In just a few short years, the
Krewe has grown to what it is today - over 250 members (attorneys and
spouses).
The Krewe
sponsors four main events during the Mardi Gras season - The Coronation
Bal, the Mid-Way to Mardi Gras party, the Justinian Bal, and the Royalty
Brunch. One of the most exciting events of the Mardi Gras season is the
Centaur Parade, in which the Krewe of Justinian participates with two
floats. It is an experience of a lifetime - throwing beads, doubloons,
cups and other Mardi Gras paraphernalia to an estimated screaming crowd
of over 400,000 people. "Laissez les bons temps rouler!"
The Krewe
also raises thousands of dollars at its Silent Auction held in conjunction
with the Grand Bal. Proceeds from the auction go to fund the many
worthwhile projects and charitable activities of the Shreveport Bar
Association and the Shreveport Bar Foundation.
Joining the Krewe
The cost
of joining the Krewe of Justinian is $225 for attorney and judge memberships
and $150 for young lawyers, government employees or paralegal/legal
staff memberships and $200 for an associate membership (non-legal). Krewe membership entitles you and your spouse or date
to free admission to the Coronation, Mid-Way to Mardi Gras party, Justinian
Bal and the Royalty Brunch.
The cost
to ride on a float is $125 per person for Krewe members and $175 per person
for non-Krewe members (float riding positions are limited to royalty,
sponsors and all others on a first pay, first serve basis). The cost of
a throw package is $250 per package (minimum of one throw package per
couple). If you are interested in joining the Krewe, contact: The
Shreveport Bar Association at 318-222-3643 or via email and shaynes@shreveportbar.com.
