Afro Lifestyle 02-02-2024

B4 The Afro-American February 3, 2024 - February 9, 2024

Krewe of Pyros Mardi Gras Ball brings New Orleans Culture to Washington, D.C.

Mayor Muriel Bowser celebrates with the Krewe of Pyros Mardi Gras Ball at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

J.C. Walker, founder and captain of Krewe of Pyros (KOP), and Lytaria Cuba Walker, executive director, enjoy the organization’s annual charity gathering.

All photos by Patricia McDougall

By Patricia McDougall

n Jan. 27th the Krewe of Pyros (KOP) O held its 8th Annual Mardi Gras Ball at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Thousands participated in the celebration, which is one of the largest events held in Washington, D.C. The Krewe of Pyros Foundation represents Louisiana Culture. They bring the event to D.C. to give scholarships to students, help in the community where it is needed and more.

Several celebrity artists took to the stage to include singers, Carl Thomas, Raheem DeVaughn, Be’la Dona Band, the legendary DJ Mannie Fresh and New Orleans own DJ Polo 504. Celebrity artist Al B. Sure made a special guest appearance. Mayor Muriel Bowser attended, along with other celebrities.

Angie M. Gates, president and CEO of Events D.C., received the 2024 Illumination Award. It was a star studded event and Washington D.C. welcomed the New Orleans culture.

Shawn Townsend (left) poses for a photo with wife, Symone Sanders- Townsend, and Blair and Brandon Dottin-Haley of clothing line, The Blairisms.

Tori Raymond (left) and Mickalyn Valentine will serve as King and Queen Symphony.

Celebrity artist Carl Thomas performs for ball attendees.

Angie M. Gates, president and CEO of Events D.C., receives the 2024 Illumination Award for her work in and for D.C.

Fox 5 anchor Wisdom Martin serves as master of ceremony for KOP’s 8th Annual Mardi Gras Ball.

Recipient of the President’s Award, Keisha McGee, receives her award standing alongside Cleve Davis, Krewe Pyros president, and J.C. Walker, founder and captain of the Krewe of Pyros (KOP).

Dr. Shandra Williams (left), Charter Member Latoya Bullard-Franklin, LTC Amanda Vaughn and Jacquelyn Laster enjoy the Krewe Pyros Mardi Gras Ball.

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D4 The Afro-American February 3, 2024 - February 9, 2024

Andre and Frances ‘Toni’ Draper celebrate 50 years of matrimony

A scripture is delivered by son, Kevin Eric “MPeckable” Peck, who traveled from Atlanta to take part in the ceremony.

Established Jan. 25, 1974, the marriage of Andre and Frances “Toni” Draper is still going strong.

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lected officials, friends and family of AFRO Director of Operations Andre Draper and AFRO Publisher Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper gathered inside of Baltimore’s Freedom Temple African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church on Jan. 27 to help the couple celebrate 50 years of marriage. Adorned in elegant white and gold African attire, Toni Draper once again pledged her loyalty to Andre Draper, who appeared for the vow renewal in a timeless, classic brown and tan suit. Rev. W. Darin Moore led the two as they stood at the altar once again to profess their love and devotion to each other and take communion.

AFRO staff joined the pair, along with the likes of U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.-07) and Baltimore City Public Schools CEO, Sonja B. Santelises, Ed.D., as they thanked their heavenly father for a union that has spanned five decades.

The Drapers first began dating around Labor Day 1973. A short time later, on Jan. 25, 1974, they committed their lives to each other.

“When you know– you know,” said Dr. Draper.

Those in attendance for the vow renewal ceremony and reception, were able to learn from the Drapers as they imparted marriage tips for 50 years of matrimony. Suggestions included learning how to control the tongueeven in anger, and “never going to bed angry or ugly” because “yes, attractive nightwear is still necessary five, 10, 20” years later.

Daughter Andrea Draper Evans, of Dallas, speaks before delivering a prayer.

Photos by James Fields

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Bishop Vashti McKenzie, leader of the National Council of Churches, attends the vow renewal as a close cousin, friend and soror of AFRO Publisher Frances “Toni” Draper.

Ayden and Austin Abdul-Zahir attend the ceremony as guests from Virginia.

Soloist Ashia Bello renders the crowd speechless with her ministry of music.

Dr. R. J. Chandler Sr. (left) , pastor of Freedom Temple A.M.E Zion Church, and Bishop W. Darin Moore prepare Dr. Frances and Andre Draper for communion.

Attendees of the vow renewal ceremony and reception celebrate with a sweet treat, courtesy of AFRO Billing Specialist Chakya Brown.

Family and friends welcome the couple to their receptions with well-deserved fan fare.

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