March 2023 Diamondhead News

By ErniE KnoBloch President’s

Report

For MARCH 2023

You may remember that earlier I wrote about our antiquated computer system that had 5 different programs to cover all POA responsibilities (properties, food & beverage services, payroll, maintenance, recreation) and that none of the programs “talk to each other.”

The result was that normal, everyday administrative functions involved constantly going out of one program and into another. The amount of time wasted was significant. We attempted to solve this problem by moving to one single program that would cover all POA activities. This resulted in mixed results. Four of the five areas are now under one program and can “talk” to the other areas. The unsolved area involves food and beverage. After several attempts the projected program for food and beverage was not able to provide us all of the aspects that we wanted/needed and the Board made a decision to go back to the original food and beverage program. At least now the food and beverage program can “whisper” to the other areas. We will continue to try to implement one program to cover ALL POA areas

but will do this working behind the scenes to solve this, since food and beverage operations are a significant part of the POA responsibilities.

One problem caused by having to use a separate food & beverage program is that we CANNOT add the four $10 gift certificates to individual accounts.

The result is that we have to go back to issuing 4 ten-dollar coupons to every property who has paid for the year. This also means that we have to physically check to determine whether a member is in good standing so he/she can receive the 15% discount.

Since about 1,900 properties have paid their annual dues in full before February 1, 2023, we wanted to implement a system so that when a server looks at your ID card, he/she can immediately know if you paid the annual dues and not have to look it up on a computer. We have fabricated unique hole punches so that if you paid your annual dues your card can be punched one time. The result is that your server will not have to look anything up on a computer. If you paid your annual dues in full, just go to the concierge desk in the lobby of the club or the actual POA office. The staff will check your name off the annual list and punch your card. If you paid your annual

dues, your four $10 coupons are available at the concierge desk or at the POA office.

The Board recently passed two motions to codify previously followed procedures. First was a motion to require owners of multiple properties to be current on dues for all properties in order to be considered in good standing. The second motion was to require owners of rental properties to be in good standing before the renter can apply to purchase passes to the swimming pools. The reason for each motion is to ensure that members in good standing are not paying for members who choose not to pay their dues.

I recently had two interesting conversations with new property owners in DH. When asked why they choose to move to DH, the first couple said that they wanted to move from cold weather area and looked along the Gulf Coast and decided upon DH because

1) it’s a safe area 2) they found out that there are free activities almost every night in the Club

3) the cost of using the amenities is reasonable (were paying $250 per month in HOA fees for only a swimming pool and small park.)

The second couple have two children under 8 years old and chose DH because 1) quiet, well-maintained area.

2) public elementary school

is rated well. 2) feel safe with their kids here. 3) lots of amenities that can be used.

4) people they’ve met have been very nice. 5) child that likes golf. 6) It’s a bargain to live in DH.

Interestingly enough is the

fact that both families said they looked at some local social media sites and almost

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The Diamondhead News is the ONLY official voice of the Diamondhead Country Club and Property Owners Association, Inc. As such, it is solely responsible for its content. The Diamondhead Property Owners Association, Inc. will maintain sole control of the editorial content. A monthly publication by the Diamondhead P.O.A.; offices are located at 7610 Country Club Circle, Diamondhead, MS 39525

Email: dhnews@dhpoa.org

Telephone: 228-332-2282

Editor: Karen Flores

Subscription info: DHPOA Membership 255-1900

The Sea Coast Echo will be responsible for production, printing, advertising and distribution (by mail) of The Diamondhead News. For advertising information, call Keith Clark at 402-203-2644 or email keith@seacoastecho. com.

• BUSINESS

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS THE CLUB AT DIAMONDHEAD AND PROPERTY OWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC.

January 16, 2023

A meeting of the Board was held at 5000 Diamondhead Circle, Diamondhead Mississippi. President Knobloch chaired the meeting and called it to order at 6:00 p.m.

Present were President Knobloch,

Vice President Gillen, Treasurer Becker, Secretary Sislow, Director Blackwood, Director James, Director LaFontaine, Director Nutting, Director Ramirez, and Director Tauzin. Absent: Ex-Officio Marthouse. Also present were GM Abadie, Legal Assistant Kinsley, and 7 members.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Minutes of the meeting of 12/19/22 were approved by e-mail vote completed 12/30/22.

APPROVAL/AMEND MEETING

AGENDA – A motion to approve the agenda was made by Vice President Gillen and seconded by Director Blackwood. The motion passed unanimously.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT – President Knobloch provided his report.

COMMITTEE REPORTS – Safety

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• BUSINESS

Continued from Page 2 Committee reported there was no meeting, but they were informed of people walking dogs on the golf course during regular play, risking harm to themselves and their pets. House/Club Committee reported TEI installation problems and review of financial impact, reinstall of Toast system to return service to the club, and discussing storage locations. Marina/Airport Committee reviewed bids for airport fueling and increased use by POA members, looking for ADA compliant lift system for marina, supporting marina Open House in January and resurfacing needs at marina and Camp House. Golf/Grounds Committee, Recreation Committee, Administration Committee, Facilities Committee had no report.

GENERAL MANAGER’S RE-

PORT – GM Abadie provided his report including financial data.

POA MEMBERS COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS – None.

REGULAR AGENDA –

2023-01 – A motion to require owners of multiple properties be current on dues for all properties in order to be considered in “good standing” was made by Secretary Sislow and seconded by Director Nutting. The motion passed unanimously.

2023-02 – A motion to require owners of rental property to be in “good standing” before the renter can apply to purchase passes to the swimming pools was made by Vice President Gillen and seconded by Secretary Sislow. The motion passed unanimously.

2023-03 – A motion to approve the repair and replacement of 16 interior light fixture Tennis Club poles, for not to exceed $15, 500 was made by Secretary Sislow and seconded by Director Nutting. The motion passed unanimously.

POA MEMBERS COMMENTS

ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS –None

NEXT MEETING – The next scheduled meeting will be on Monday, February 20, 2023, at 6:00 P.M. at the Diamondhead City Hall Chambers.

ADJOURN – A motion was made by Director James and seconded by Director Blackwood to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 6:29PM.

Respectfully submitted, Nancy Sislow POA Board Secretary Approved on 1/18/23

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Continued from Page 1 didn’t even come and check out DH because of the number of complaints from some who post on social media. Both decided independently that no community could be as bad as what some people write on social media. Both families decided to physically check out DH by visiting, were impressed by the community, and then both bought homes here as a result of their visit.

Anyone who works in the public area knows that you very seldom receive positive remarks for anything that you do. Below is one email that we recently received.

I called the POA asking for help clearing the stopped-up culvert near #1 green. Within 2 days I received a call from a

staff member

He met me at site and said he would clear the debris.

The clog is now clear.

Just wanted you to know about a job well done.

Please let the department know a citizen appreciates their response.

Spring is here and we anticipate a large number of visiting golfers. I ask all golfers and residents to greet visitors and help them leave with a positive memory of their visit to our unique community.

The deadline for the April issue of DHNEWS is March 13th

S.P.C.A. of DH: Cooperation and Community

By Toni GrEy

We’ve written in the past about the problem the community faces regarding the dumping of animals into Diamondhead. Seems that people know that the residents of Diamondhead will pull together to rescue stray cats and dogs, but it never ends.

Unfortunately, the Hancock County Animal Shelter has been at full capacity for quite a while. (Their hours of operation make it difficult for families to go there and adopt a pet.) A few weeks ago, four beautiful puppies were found abandoned at the kayak launch. The Diamondhead resident called Animal Control and was told that the Shelter was full. Plus, the A.C. officer said that if they take the puppies, dogs already at the Shelter will have to be euthanized to make room.

Of course, the resident did not want to see that happen. Nanette Griffin, an S.P.C.A. Board Member contacted Misty Strickland of Animal A.I.D. of Mississippi. The resident committed to taking one of the puppies and Animal A.I.D. is still working to find homes for the other three.

For just over 3 months, the S.P.C.A. worked hard to rescue and re-home 25 cats and kittens. We had them spayed, neutered, vaccinated, fostered until ready to be placed at Petsense for adoption. In mid-January the manager of Petsense changed their policy regarding placing cats for adoption there. The new arrangement made it impossible for the S.P.C.A. of Diamondhead to continue “partnering” with them.

During those months, it was very difficult to find enough fosters to help take care of the kittens until they were old enough to be spayed and neutered. We reached out to Deb Martin of Mississippi Citizens Against Animal Cruelty. She was able to foster several kittens for us

when we needed her most. Animal A.I.D. of MS also helped us with that very important job.

If you would like to donate to another organization that rescues and cares for animals and who has helped the Diamondhead community, please consider: Animal A.I.D. of MS, www. animalaidms.org

Also, Mississippi Citizens Against Animal Cruelty, (MCAAC) 10333 Antioch Road, VanCleave, MS 39565 continues to be a huge support to us.

We are all in this together. It is heartwarming to have people from other communities helping us take care of the precious, homeless ani-

These puppies were recently dumped near the Diamondhead Kayak launch. A Diamondhead resident took one of them, and Animal AID of Mississippi is working to find homes for the other three.

Riches abound at the East Hancock Library

By Mary GoBErT

March is here and if you’re out with the leprechauns looking for that pot of gold, look no further! Riches abound at our East Hancock Library! Let’s start with a fun activity that is planned near the end of the month and then start at the beginning.

Bunny Hop your way to a library collaboration with Senior Village on March 23 at 10:00.

CHURCHES

CHURCHES SERVING

DIAMONDHEAD

ST. THOMAS EPISCOPAL CHURCH

5303 Diamondhead Cir

Diamondhead, MS 39525-3203

(228) 255-9213

mail@stthomasdiamondhead.org

WORSHIP TIMES

Sunday 8:00 am Holy Eucharist

Sunday 10:00 am Holy Eucharist

DIAMONDHEAD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

5305 Noma Dr. 228-255-6888

www.diamondhead-umc.org

9:00 am – Heritage Worship Service

10:00 am – Life Class

11:00 am – Harbor Worship Service

4:00 pm – Youth Ministry with dinner provided Pastor Allen Regan

DIAMONDHEAD COMMUNITY CHURCH

5301 Diamondhead Circle (288) 255-5556

dhcommunitychurch.org

JOURNEY TO THE CROSS

This Bunny Hop will include an Easter egg hunt, bird feeder craft, and photo op with the Easter Bunny himself! Hope to see all of you at the Activity Center at City Hall that day.

Wednesday, March 1 from 10 to noon, come to a Veterans Benefit Seminar. Speakers will be David Depreo, Hancock County Veterans Service Officer and Lisa Ladner of Lisa Ladner Health Insurance Agency. All veterans are welcome.

The library will host

a Medicare Education Workshop on Wednesday, March 15 at 5:00. Lots of good information will be available!

If you want to join the Senior Strength and Flexibility group on Tuesdays (March 7,14,21,28), you better get there early if you want a spot!

This popular class meets weekly at 10:30.

Adults and kids can both exercise their artistic talents at Acrylic Painting Classes. Adults meet on the first

and third Mondays (March 6,20) from 2-3 p.m.

Kids meet on Thursday afternoons (March 2,9,16,23,30) from 3:30-4:30. All materials are supplied for both classes.

Make and Take Paper Crafts meets on the second and fourth Thursday of the month (March 9 and 23). Everything you need is provided, including instruction!

Head to the library at 10 on Saturdays for Crafty Chicks! Bring a craft project and visit while you create!

Storytime for the preschool set is every Monday at 10:30. Bring your little one and get them started on a love for the library early.

Literary Society of Diamondhead (LSD) Book Club meets the second Wednesday of the month at 10:30. Anyone in the group who wants to continue socializing after the meeting heads to a local restaurant for lunch.

The March meeting is on March 8 and the book is Ava’s Man by Rick Bragg.

2555, jacobswellms@aol.com

Worship times on Sundays: 8:45 am Worship, 10 am Sunday School, and 11 am Worship

ANNUNCIATION CATHOLIC CHURCH

5370 Kiln-DeLisle Rd. Kiln, MS 39556 (228)255-1800 www.annunciationkiln. com

Masses: Saturday Vigil 4:00pm; Sunday 8:00am and 10:30am; Weekday 8:00am (Chapel)

Sacrament of Reconciliation: Saturday 3:pm to 3:45pm; Sunday 9:45am to 10:15 am and other times by appointment.

Adoration: Tuesday 8:30am to 8:00pm; Friday 8:30am to 9:30am.

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE PINES

Weekly luncheons beginning March 5th offfering an enlightening trip through the scriptures.

Each Wednesday at 12:00 noon.

RSVP: 255-5556

LOOKING AHEAD

Vacation Bible School:

June 12-16

Soccer Camp:

June 19-22

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday Worship 8am & 10am (No 8am on 3rd Sunday)

Discipleship Classes for all ages – 9am

**** WIRED ****

5:30-6:30 pm

Wednesday Youth Group5:00 – 7:30 p.m.

MOST HOLY TRINITY

CATHOLIC CHURCH

www.mhtcatholic.org

www.facebook.com/mostholytrinityms

Instagram@mostholytrinityms

Phone 228-255-1294

Daily mass -- 8:00 am Monday-Friday held

in the church

Eucharistic Adoration –40 hours each week; check the website for specific hours Saturday masses -- 4 and 6 pm—held in the church

Sunday masses -- 7:30, 9:00, 11:00 am and 7 pm

Adult Formation will be held on Sundays at 10-11AM before 11AM mass in the Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church Parish Center. On March 5, “Grace As God’s Loving”, March 12, “God Invites Us To A Personal Relationship”, March 19 “Navigating The Obstacles Of God’s Love” and March 26 “Deepening Our Relationship With God”

JACOB’S WELL BAPTIST CHURCH

29554 Vic Faye Road, Pass Christian, MS 39571; 228-255-

309 Highway 90 Waveland, MS. 39576 228-467-6771

Pastor Brock Cain

Services every Sunday morning are at 10:00am

Sunday School for children and adults at 9:00am

Every Wednesday we offer Bible study at 1pm.

OLD TOWN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, PCUSA

114 Ulman Ave. Bay St. Louis, MS39520

Pastor: Rev. Richard T. Gillespie, Th.D. (256)443-4100

Worship, 10am

Adult Sunday School, 9am

Diamondhead Community Church.

CLUBS

DiaMonDhEaD WinE clUB

The Diamondhead Wine Club is dedicated to the exploration and enjoyment of wine. At each monthly tasting, we sample at least six different wines and learn a little about their history and origins. The Club is open to any who are interested in enjoying and learning about wine.

Thursday, March 16th — EU Wines vs. Napa/Sonoma - 7:00 at the Club

One of the fun evenings we occasionally do is to compare wines from other countries against American wines. Mississippi’s availability of wines is limited, so rather than limit ourselves to picking a single European country, we’re going to select the best we can find from the EU to compare against some of the best from Napa and Sonoma Counties of California. This is always fun and interesting to sometimes see wines made from the same grapes taste quite differently.

Cost is $40 for DWC members and $50 for guests. Please make your reservations by mailing your check payable to DWC to: P.O. Box 6523, Diamondhead, MS 39525 or by emailing Lou at louertel@aol.com or Marshall at mekygs@mail.com.

Thursday, April 20th — North of Napa - 7:00 at the Club

We’ve normally called this Wines from the Pacific Northwest, and we will focus on Oregon and Washington. However, we wanted to take a look at finding something from California’s Lake and Mendocino Counties. As temperatures warm, new locations are able to produce some great wines. Nonetheless, expect the focus to be on Oregon and Washington, where they produce many outstanding wines, including Reislings, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Cab and Merlot. Always fun evening.

Cost is $40 for DWC members and $50 for guests. Please make

your reservations by mailing your check payable to DWC to: P.O. Box 6523, Diamondhead, MS 39525 or by emailing Lou at louertel@aol.com or Marshall at mekygs@mail.com.

DiaMonDhEaD GarDEn clUB

The March meeting of the Diamondhead Garden Club will be, March 15th in the Club at Diamondhead the usual time 9:30 am social time 10:00 the meeting will start.

While the meeting is being held the flower show in the adjoining room will be being judged. If the judging is complete when the meeting is over members will be allowed to view the show. If it is NOT complete the members are requested to return at 3 PM when the show will be open to the public.

The theme for the flower show this year is “Their Own League” come out and enjoy the efforts of our club members. There will be both designs and horticulture on display.

March 24th is the date for the Mobile Flower show, featuring Zen Gardens. It is held Providence Hospital Campus. The club will NOT be doing this as

amember of ACBL’s Unit 180, which covers clubs along the Coast. All bridge players are welce, regardless of your level of experience. We also welcome all visitors to the area who wanto play a friendly game of bridge. If you have a question or need a partner, call Mary Galvin, 228216-4929.

The winners in January were:

• Monday, Jan. 2 -- 1st --

Henrietta Parnigoni and Jean Bluett.

2nd, Sheila Bosarge and Marilyn Galus.

• Monday, Jan. 9 -- 1st -- N-S

Betty Jones and Caroline Fisher.

2nd -- E-W Henrietta Parnigoni and Jean Bluett

•Monday, Jan. 16 -- 1st --

alier.

Please contact Mary Galvin at 228-216-4929 for information about the lessons and other planned club activities.

ThUrsDay MorninG linE DancErs

Lessons and dancing, led by Molly, will be held from 10:00 -11:00 am on THURSDAYS at the DIAMONDHEAD COMMUNITY CENTER. New solid flooring and a huge space. Plenty of room for social distancing. Everyone is welcome. Great exercise, great fun, $1 room rental per person, per session. FOR DETAILS OR CANCELLATIONS see our web site: https:// sites.google.com/site/getmoving12345678/

a field trip but make up a carpool and go. It is well worth the drive.

Brierley Acker 255 2697

l aDiEs BriDGE ParT y clUB MARCH PARTY

The date for our March party is Friday 24, 2023 at the Country Club. Arrival time is 9:15 and we shall begin playing bridge at 9:30. If you have any questions regarding Ladies Bridge Party, please contact Terre Settle at 255-9892 or Gay Young at 2551528.

The winners of the January Party were Barbara Gibbons First Place and Conchetta Donnelly Second Place. Our Special Prize went to Janet Parker.

DiaMonDhEaD DUPlicaTE BriDGE nEWs

The Diamondhead Duplicate Bridge Club meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the Diam ondhead United Methodist Church at 1 p.m. Our bridge club holds a sanction with the American Contract Bridge League that allows us to award ACBL masterpoints. Our club is

Caroline Fisher and Henrietta Parnigoni.

2nd -- Henrietta Parnigoni and Janet Parker.

• Monday, Jan. 30 -- 1st -Henrietta Parnigoni and Marie Picou.

2nd -- Susan Burwell and Daryl Fisher.

Wednesday, Jan. 4 -- 1st, Bill Warren and Sheila Bosarge.

2nd -- Carolyn Porr and Lynne Grimes.

• Wednesday, Jan. 11 -- 1st, Bobo Shearer and Arun Limaye.

• 2nd -- Gary Meece and Betty Allen.

• Wednesay, Jan. 18 -- 1st -Bobo Shearer and Virgil Harris.

2nd -- Carolyn Porr and Lynne Grimes.

• Wedenesday, Jan. 25 -- 1st -- Bobo Shearer and Virgil Harris.

2nd -- Mary Galvin and Sharyn Mann.

• Friday, Jan. 6 -- 1st -- N-2 Perri Mann and Lynne Logan.

2nd -- E-W (tie) Betty Jones and Robert Sylvester.

• Friday, Jan. 20 -- 1st -- Betty Jones Sheila Bosarge.

2nd -- Henrietta Parnigoni and Alice Ladnier.

Friday, Jan. 27 -- 1st -- Bruce Stinson and Betty Jones.

2nd -- Wendell and Julia Cav-

DiaMonDhEaD lions clUB cElEBraTEs 30Th annivErsary

With a new personal pin marking the years of 1993 as our founding year and the year 2023 as our 30th year, the Diamondhead Lions club marks 30 years of active service in Diamondhead.

The Diamondhead Lions Club was chartered in March 1993 to assist in accomplishing the goals of Lions Clubs International. The membership identifies problems locally and works toward their solution. We are actively involved in collecting eyeglasses for recycling where needed around the world, providing hearing aids and eyeglasses for the indigent, providing diabetes awareness information, and performing vision screening at health fairs - just a few of our outreaches.

We help organizations on the Mississippi Gulf Coast to raise funds to complete projects in the area. We physically and monetarily support our local food banks, health organizations, and the Red Cross. We

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LADIES BRIDGE PARTY CLUB: Two of the winners of the February Ladies Party Bridge: Janet Parker and Conchetta Donnelly.

have entertained the residents of the local nursing home with weekly Bingo games. We have raised money for our charity efforts through the years through many fund raisers; Rummage Sales, Health Fairs, Annual Dog Shows, Annual “Walks for Sight”, Annual Fruit or Nut Sales, Holiday Basket Raffles, other special events, and many BONCO Games.

Lions are more than 1.4 million strong - men and womenyoung and old.

You will find us in 208 countries and geographical areas from the hinterlands of Australia and Brazil to thriving urban centers like New York, Paris, London, and Tokyo.

We have a common spirit. Since our beginning in 1917, we have been united in a single cause: helping those less fortunate.

We support the causes of Lions Clubs International which are supported by the dues paid by all Lions, contributions by other residents of our local area, and by grants provided by the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). For Disaster Relief the current emphasis is the support of the people of the Ukraine and the Syria-Turkey earthquake.

In addition, the Diamondhead Lions Club supports many local charities and organizations that need the help that we can provide, as well as individuals that need help with eye or hearing care or other needs.

Find out more about the Lions Club of Diamondhead.

Be our guest at one of our regular club meetings in the near future. Our next meeting is Friday, March 17 for Lunch, at 11:30 AM in the Diamondhead Country Club.

Future meetings are on the Third Friday of each month. Let us know when you can come – we will save a seat for you - contact Lion Sherry Necaise at 228-2563226 (senecaise@yahoo.com).

DiaMonDhEaD nEWcoMErs clUB

Mardi Gras was celebrated on Friday February 10th by the Newcomers Club with 68 ladies in attendance! This was such a fun luncheon with the majority of the membership dressed in parading outfits or purple, green and gold. Everyone enjoyed the festive music, door prizes and the second line! If you missed February’s you’re in luck because March’s meeting soon!

St. Patrick Day will be the next theme so if you plan on attending wear green! These ladies lunch again on Friday March 10th.

The group’s themed luncheons are held September through May on the second Friday of each month. So, if you are interested in having fun join the Newcomers Club! To reserve a seat, please make reservations on or before the Monday prior to each event.

Contact us for more information at diamondhead.newcomers@yahoo.com, check out the club’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/diamondheadnewcomersclub or call Leanne Guidry at 504-919-5763.

ary 10, in Plaquemine, Louisiana, where Obie and his friend, Allen Kirkland, led us around the historic town (where they grew up), through two museums, and along the lock, which once connected the Mississippi River to a system of canals that provided early settlers access to inland areas and the nearby bayous and lakes. Our hike along the levee gave us a “birdseye” view of the canal and river and an appreciation of the geography of the site.

Dh GEaUx hiKinG clUB

By Sheila Edwards

January and February had their ups and downs (as in downpours… yeah our January 12, 2023, at Shephard State Park was cancelled due to rain) but we hope to reschedule that popular hike soon. We did enjoy our January 26 hike with leader, Deborah Martin, at the War Memorial Park in Pass Christian, where we took advantage of the winding trail amongst the exercise stations, tree sculptures and stone monuments. We admired the gazebo-style bandshell and the lovely view of the Sound before traveling to Long Beach to stroll on the University of Southern Mississippi campus. Once there, we wandered around the area known for its magnificent grove of live oaks, several of which are hundreds of years old. The most famous is the Friendship Tree, which, according to horticultural historians, was a sapling in 1492, when Columbus was exploring the Caribbean. (Yup! It says that right there on the sign...) We then enjoyed a delicious, nutritious, and very affordable lunch at Salute in Gulfport.

We also gathered on Febru-

The stunning architecture of the lockhouse is an example of the beautiful, yet functional, industrial design of the early 1900’s, with high arched windows to help with ventilating the pump and steam rooms and an office up a circular staircase to a “crow’s nest” where the lock master communicated with boat captains as they entered and exited the lock. The lock site is also home to out-buildings sheltering several examples of historic watercraft, including an air-boat created by Allen’s family.

Across the street from the lockhouse is the former City Hall and Courthouse, which houses the Iberville Parrish Museum. This collection includes many artifacts particular to local history, and contains several unique displays. Amongst the exhibits is the recording equip-

ment once operated by Allen’s father to make 45 rpm records of local musicians starting in the 1960’s and includes juke boxes, photos and detailed biographies of the composers and musicians. Allen showed us how to use an i-phone to access QR codes to link to audio files that lets you hear their performances. Later, the friendly staff at Fat Daddy’s made sure we left for Diamondhead with our appetites satisfied and our bellies full (was that snoring coming from the back seat?)

Up-coming hikes include a March 8, 2023, return to view camelias at Bayou Gardens in Lacombe, LA, followed by a tour of the Maritime Museum in nearby Madisonville (cost $6.00) followed by lunch nearby. Meet at Twin Lakes a little before 8:30am. Leader: Linda LaCour (one of our experts in all things green and growing.)

Betty Whittington’s overnight hike to Avery Island in Louisiana is still on the calendar for Thursday, March 23 and Friday, March 24. After leaving Diamondhead, we’ll have lunch at Riverside Inn, Broussard, LA. and then go to Avery Island to take advantage of two self-guided tours: Jungle Garden & Tabasco Museum/Factory. Cost is $12.50 (10% senior discount) for both tours. (maybe we’ll have a

Newcomers celebrate Mardi Gras

The Geaux Hiking Club at Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site.

Tabasco Bloody Mary at the end of the tour umm… hmmmm…) After hotel check-in in New Iberia, we’ll gather for dinner at La Fonda in Lafayette, LA.

Friday, March 24—After breakfast we’ll do the Jefferson Island Rip Van Winkle House & Garden tour--$12.00. Café on the grounds for lunch. Then we’ll head to Lafayette, LA, to tour the Acadian Village ($9.00 seniors self-guided.) Or, optionally, explore many other points of interest in Lafayette. Return to Diamondhead in the late afternoon or after dinner at a restaurant of your choice in Lafayette. IMPORTANT: Please let Betty know by COB Tuesday, March 21, if you are planning to participate so she can make reservations for lunch on Thursday, March 23, as the Riverside Inn is small. Her phone number is: 228-731-2296.

Our March planning meeting will be held Tuesday, March 7, in the Kanaka Room, DH Country Club at 6:00pm.

The DH Geaux Hiking Club is open to everyone; all ages and abilities are welcome. There are no dues. You do not have to live in Diamondhead. Now…. Let’s GEAUX HIKING! (or strolling… or perambulating… or flaneuring…)

DDPia

Diamondhead Democrats Progressives Independents Alliance will hold their monthly meeting on Thursday March 16th at 10:00 am in the Diamondhead Hancock County Library. Enjoy time to gather and meet our many new members! Become informed during our business meeting and learn about opportunities to serve our community. The highlight of the March meeting will be our featured speaker Charles Richardson, Political Consultant with Chism Strategies. Mr. Richardson will be introducing us to Greta Kemp Martin, Mississippi’s Democratic Candidate for Attorney General. Come be a part of this growing organization!

DiaMonDhEaD WoMEn’s clUB

At our, February 1st at 11am in the Emerald Ballroom. We had a wonderful Exit 16 Fashion Show. Thank you to Alison for such a fun and informative event on the upcoming fashions and trends.

The March meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 1st at 11:00 am at the Diamondhead Country Club in the Emerald Ballroom. We will be joined by Pine Hills Nursery to “Turn Your Thumb

Green Gardening”. Join us for some tips from the experts, on how to keep your garden growing and green.

The April meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 5th at 11:00am. We will be decorating Wine/Champagne/Iced Tea glass, whichever you prefer for you to have at our Glitz event or just for a special toast. Bring your glass with you to the meeting, decorations will be provided.

Please join us for a fun, creative, glass glamming gathering. Don’t forget to bring your glass! The upcoming Glitz event will be held on April 18th, 2023, 6-9pm at the Diamondhead Country Club.

This event is a charity fund raiser benefitting the Hancock Food Pantry and Pink Heart Funds. For donations or to volunteer, please contact Victoria at vcmagers@gmail.com. To purchase tickets for individual seats or entire tables, or to find out more information about this wonderful fund raiser, please contact Donnie @ 225-405-2156. Ticket sales to start March 1st – April 12th. The theme for our 2022-23 season is the Celebration of Women. Please join us at our meeting in Supporting and Celebrating Women.

The objective of this club shall be to promote an informed active interest in the civic, social and moral welfare of the community: to serve the community through the dedication of time and energy from worth purposes and to undertake and complete one or more charitable, humanitarian or social welfare projects each year.

Our meetings (we do not meet in June, July, or August), are held the first Wednesday of each month beginning at

11:00 a.m. at the Diamondhead Country Club, Emerald Ballroom. Membership is $20.00 and is open to all women.

Dates and times for upcoming meetings, events and fundraisers to be announced in upcoming issues of this publication and you can follow us on FaceBook.

For more information, please contact Marilyn Lott @ 601-528-3336

roTary clUB

By virGinia BoylE

We had an awesome meeting on 1/26 with special guests from Germany’s Berlin Rotary Club!! Our guest speaker was Penne Rappold from the Friends of Animal Shelter of Hancock County!! the Animal Shelter is always in need of cat and dog food (Purina), puppy pads, blankets, towels, and cleaning materials!

On 2/9, fellow Rotarians enjoyed our speaker, Sydney Davidson and Dawn Agar with CureMSD which is a rare genetic disease that affects the lifespan of a child. Most of these children do not live until adulthood! Our meetings are every second and fourth Thursday of the month at noon at the Club of Diamondhead!! All are welcome!! Lunch is Dutch treat!!

We are looking forward to our next meeting on 2/23!

Our guest speaker will be Blaine LaFontaine with the Hancock Port and Harbor Commission! On 3/9 we will be having Rick Mocklin from the Shantel Lanerie Breast Cancer Foundation as our guest speaker

If you are interested in being a speaker or want more information about our club, please call Virginia Boyle at 228-243-8889

COMMUNITY COFFEE

DH Women’s Club -- Exit 16 Fashion Show models from our February 1st meeting, in front is Rachel Huskins, back row left to right. Teresa Manning, Phil Gillen and Sarah Garcia.

MARCH 2023 CLUB NEWS -- Celebrations Abound

By c hris rahaiM clUB ManaGEr

Can you believe spring is here?

We’re looking forward to our 2nd Anniversary Party for Latitude 30 Patio and Grill and The Oak Room on March 18.

And in April, our April 7 Good Friday Buffet and April 9 Easter Sunday!

Thursday Night

March Dinner Special – Rib Road Trip

Join us every Thursday for a different style of rib! Half rack of ribs, coleslaw, & baked beans. $22

• March 2 – Kansas City Style

• March 9 – Memphis

Style

• March 16 – Carolina Style

• March 23 – Texas

Style

• March 30 – West Coast Style

Saturday Night Royal Reds Are Back!

Peel & eat Royal Reds, sausage, corn, potatoes, & mushrooms 1 pound - $20, 1/2 pound - $12

March 4 Prisoner

Winery Wine Dinner

We have limited space for our fantastic Wine Dinner featuring a delicious menu paired with Prisoner Winery

• See The Club Page 16

• The Club

Continued from Page 14

wines. Call 228-255-2918 ext. 3 for reservations.

March 17 St. Patrick’s Day Plate Special (available all day)

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day! Join us for a delicious special. • Corned Beef, Cabbage, Roasted Potatoes $18

• Soup of the Day – Irish Stew ($5 cup/$9 bowl)

March 18 Latitude 30

Patio and Grill and The Oak Room 2nd Anniversary Party

Please join us for a delicious BBQ Buffet on The Oak Room Patio & music by Ronnie Hammons.

$26 plus tax & gratuity. Discount is available for POA members in good standing. Wristbands available for sale in the Club Office

• Smoked Pulled Pork

• Smoked Chicken

• Smoked Ribs

• Sausage

• Smoked Pork Loin

• New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp

• Loaded Baked Beans

• Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Mac & Cheese

• Fried Okra

• Charred Brussel Sprouts

• Dirty Rice

• Summer Salad

• Loaded Potato Soup

• Cole Slaw

• Macaroni Salad

Bourbon & Cigar Tasting March 25

Join us for a fun night on The Patio from 5:00 – 7:00! Enjoy light appetizers and a custom selection of rare and unusual bourbons and cigars. $46 per person*, plus tax & gratuity. The price includes two drink tickets, one cigar ticket, and appetizers. Please call 228-255- 2918 ext.3 to reserve your spot. *Discount available for POA members in good standing.

Tuesday Night Bingo With Brigitte & Sylvia

Every Tuesday is Bingo night in Latitude 30 from 6:00 – 8:00! One free card per person. One additional card per purchase. No cash entry, no cash prizes.

Wednesday Night Trivia

Every Wednesday is Trivia night in Latitude 30 with Tony Lewis of Exit 28 Trivia from 6:00 – 8:00. Gather your team & get competitive. Eat, drink, & tease your brain!

Thursday Night Kara-

oke

Every Thursday is Karaoke night in Latitude 30 from 6:00 – 10:00 with Ray Walters!

Steak House Fridays

The menu is updated weekly. Multiple selections of steak and seafood

** April Sneak Peak **

April 7 Good Friday Seafood Buffet On the Patio

5:00 – 8:00, $32, plus tax & gratuity. Purchase wristbands in the Club Office. POA discount available for members in good standing.

Main Line

• Fried Catfish

• Fried Shrimp

• Royal Reds

• Stuffed Crabs

• Roasted Red Potatoes

• Fried Okra

• Crawfish Etouffee/Rice

• Mac & Cheese

• Squash & Zucchini

• Corn Maque Choux Cold Line

• Garden Salad

• Shrimp Pasta Salad • Potato Salad

• Coleslaw

Carving Station

• Grilled Mahi Mahi

• Herb Crusted Salmon

Dessert

• Assorted Cobblers • Banana Pudding

April 9 Easter Sunday Buffet

Seatings are at 10:30, noon, & 1:30. Reservations are required. Call 228-2552918 ext. 3. $52. Kids 4 & under: Free, 4 – 5: $18, 6 – 12: $28. Discount available for POA members in good standing.

Omelet Station

Carving Station

• Smoked Apple & Bourbon Glazed Ham • Pesto Crusted Salmon

• Herb Crusted Prime Rib

• Mint-Crusted Leg of Lamb

Main Line

• Flash Fried Brussels Sprouts

• Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

• Brown Sugar Glazed

Heirloom Carrots

• Boursin Mac & Cheese

• Squash Casserole

• Grilled Asparagus with Blue Cheese Butter • Southern Style Green Bean

• Honey Ham

• Roasted Turkey

Seafood Station

• Charred Oysters • Boiled Shrimp

• Royal Reds

• Stuffed Crabs

• Crawfish

Soups/Salad

• Deviled Eggs

• Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad with Honey Vinaigrette • Greek Salad

• Chicken & Sausage

Gumbo

• Garden Pasta Salad

• Assorted Bread

Desserts

• White Chocolate Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce • Assorted Pies and Cakes

Easter Sunday Hours

• Oak Room & Emerald Ballroom Serving Easter Buffet Only

o 10:30, 12:00, & 1:30 seatings. Reservations are required

• Latitude 30 Patio and Grill

o 7:00 – 10:00, Breakfast

Menu Available

o 10:30 – 1:30, Easter Buffet Available. Open seating. No reservations are required

o 4:00 – 7:00, Limited

Menu Available

April 29 Disco Party

In Latitude 30 from 7:00 – 10:00. DJ Ray, Costume Contest.

DiaMonDhEaD GolF

c hris alTEsE, PGa

DirEcTor oF GolF

We’ve had some beautiful weather to play golf already this year. Golf activity continues to be strong. We continue to receive compliments on our service, hospitality, facilities, golf course conditioning, and our community as a whole. As you know,, The Club at Diamondhead is a special

place!

As you can see by our upcoming events, March is just one of many exciting months for golf. Most likely we just finished hosting 4th Annual Gulf Coast Collegiate on February 26-February 28. Also, the 5th Annual Jack O’Neill Memorial Golf Benefit will be held on March 25th. The Big Kahuna Golf Challenge continues to settle into their earlier date of April 14-16 on the calendar. Our Ladies’

Malahini Member-Guest on April 26-27 is not far away either. These events along with a few others and the increased activity from snowbirds should make for a busy month.

With the Ladies’ and Men’s Malahini Member-Guest events are quickly approaching! Please remember that you and your guest must have a minimum of six (6) 18-hole equivalent scores posted in GHIN within 90 days of the event start date. As we en-

ter golf season, please get with your guest and let them know to establish a GHIN at a club near them and get those scores posted. You should do the same!

We look forward to announcing our winners of the Super Bowl Scramble held on Sunday, February 12th. The event was sold out early with a full field. Also, our 26th Annual Sweetheart Scramble was held

on Sunday, February 19th. Another sold out event with 32 couples competing. Everyone has a fun time with this event. Several couples from outside of Diamondhead look forward to joining us for this event each year. Winners will be announced soon! Annual golf members…If you

• See SPORTS Page 18

have not picked up your annual golf membership bag tags and cart stickers, you can do so now in the Golf Shop.

Cart path only days, as much as we all dislike them, are required from time to time to protect our golf courses from damage. When cart path only, all golf carts, including those with handicaps, must remain on the cart path the entire time. Players should use extreme caution when passing another golf cart so not to damage the golf course when doing so. If you must pass, wait for a high and dry opportunity. Also, when we are able to operate as 90-degree cart rule we ask for all golf carts to remain a minimum of 30 yards away from the edge of the green and always return to the cart path side of the green. We appreciate your cooperation.

With several new members joining we thought it would be good to share our on-course restroom facilities with you again. The Club at Diamondhead has restrooms located at the halfway point on each nine and halfway point of each golf course (#9-#10) for your use. Plan accordingly and use the facilities provided.

Upcoming events...

2/26-2/28 -- Gulf Coast Collegiate

3/6 -- Hancock Hawks High School Golf Invitational

3/12 -- Daylight Savings Time Begins

3/17 -- Deepwater Golf Classic Event #1

3/18 -- Gulf Coast Slavic Chase – Cardinal (open to all)

3/25 -- Jack O’Neill Memorial Golf Benefit

3/31 -- Deepwater Golf Classic Event #2

4/8 -- Most Holy Trinity Golf Event (open to all)

4/14-4/16 -- Big Kahuna Golf Challenge benefitting the Marine Corps League

4/20 -- TaylorMade Fitting Experience (register online)

4/22 -- Gulf Coast Slavic Chase – Pine (open to all)

4/26-4/27 -- Ladies’ Malahini Member-Guest

4/29 -- Hancock Hawks Football Booster Golf Event (open to all)

Other Important Dates:

5/19-5/21 -- Men’s Malahini Member-Guest

6/3-6/5 -- Hawaiian Mixed Couples Invitational

Say you don’t golf...you don’t have to miss out on all of the fun. The Golf Academy at Diamondhead can get you enjoying the game of golf in no time. Golf instruction is available all levels of play and especially beginners. Stop by and give it a swing! We guarantee that you will be glad you did.

Congratulations to all of the junior golfers that competed in the 3rd annual Jack O’Neill

Memorial Junior Golf Championship on January 28-29. We had an incredible turnout again with some very talented junior golfers. Several of our Diamondhead juniors competed and had great finishes in this event including Rowdy Foster (Runner-Up Boys 12-13), Madden Baughman (4th place Boys 12-13), Charley Thompson (7th place Boys Boys 12-13), Jack Lawson (4th place Boys 14-15), Logan Jensen (5th place Boys 14-15), Mitchell Thompson (11th place Boys 14-15), Nathan Hickman (3rd place Boys 16-18), Chase Urban (16th place Boys 16-18), Mateo Jimenez (3rd Overall Boys & 3rd place Boys 16-18), Chase Urban (15th place Boys 16-18), Karstyn Altese (1st place Overall Girls & 1st place Girls 13-15), Kenley Archer (4th place Girls 16-18), Katie Estridge (6th place Girls 16-18), and Gabby Haas (7th place Girls 16-18). This Mississippi Golf Association sanctioned event will be held in late January each year at Diamondhead. Being a Junior Golf Scoreboard ranked event led to a strong field of 57 golfers representing Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Iowa. Special thanks to the Jack O’Neill Memorial Charity for helping establish such a great event for the best juniors in the region to compete. Diamondhead proud!

On January 14th we hosted our Double Black Diamond Superintendent’s Revenge Golf Classic. I am pretty sure the superintendent won this one! Lots of fun but it was a challenge. Congrats to our flight winners… Corbet’s - Jack Lawson/Robby Russell, GOAT – Tyler Hale/Blair Nutting, Palisades – Tom & Karen Dougherty, Mary Lou Czaplicki/Al Gutierrez (tied), Rambo – Frank Morrow/Ron Davis. Great playing!

Attention junior golfers...if you are between the age of 5 and 16 we would like to extend an invitation to try out for one of our Diamondhead Junior Golf Teams. Call (228) 255-3910 or stop by the golf shop for more information. Our new season starts in mid-March and runs into May. It’s not too late to join. Weekly practices and competitions. It’s the real deal!

Usually, I would say it is critical that we all fix two ball marks and fill two divots every hole...any two will do! Now more fitting would be...Ball marks and divot repair...It’s your course, so fix four or more for either or and they don’t even have to be yours! We look forward to seeing you “PLAY MORE GOLF.” Let’s all get out and enjoy our beautiful golf courses and practice facilities. As always, let us know how we can help.

DMGa

By GEnE DEMEDicis

The months of January and early February have been cold and wet but we managed to get

in our rounds despite the miserable playing conditions. When this article is printed it should be warming up and drying out so I encourage everyone to come out and play with the men on Wednesday mornings.

In the ABCD Two Best Balls competition on January 18 the team of Forest Debronich, John McLaughlin, Ronnie Austin and AJ Dilley won with a score of 19 under par. Two teams tied for second place with a score of 18 under par. The team of Gene deMedicis, Tony Holt, Dennis Tauzin and Dutch Becker tied with the team of Norman Bowley, Marion Rotolo, Dennis Laumann and John Speed. Two teams tied for fourth place with a score of 17 under par. The team of Renny Pangan, Tom O’Connell, Jim Shoemaker and Dennis Papaleo tied with the team of Sam Lee, Dick Brown, Lee Bell and Larry Popovich.

Closest to the pins were won by Warren Morgan, Charlie Cangelosi, John Bunce and Anthony Jackson. Closest shot of the day was made by nonagenarian Charlie Cangelosi at 1’3”. Way to go Charlie!

The format for the game on January 25 was ABC Points. Capturing first place was the team of Dave Barbato, Don Crosby and Joe Mur-

ray with a score of minus 2. In second place was the team of Erie Hebert, Kevin West and AJ Dilley with a score of minus 8. Third place was won by the team of Forest Debronich, Anthony Jackson and Dennis Tauzin with a score of minus 13. In fourth place was the team of Renny Pangan, Tony Holt and Jim Shoemaker. Anthony Jackson won low individual with a net score of 69.

Closest to the pin winners were Renny Pangan, Byron Gandy, Dave Barbato and Art Burgoyne. Closest shot of the day was Byron Gandy at 6”1”.

In the ABCD Two Best Ball competition on February 1 two teams tied for first with a score of 16 under par. The team of George Thibodeaux, John Bunce and Val Miller tied with the team of Tom Garriga, Byron Gandy, Tony Holt and AJ Dilley. Two teams tied for 3rd place at 15 under par. The team of Gene deMedicis, John McLaughlin, Dennis Laumann and Al Mast tied with the team of Berni Breen, Ron Davis, Art Burgoyne and Joe Murray. • See SPORTS Page 20

Closest to the pin winners were Byron Gandy, Ron Davis, Gene deMedicis and George Thibodeaux. Closest shot of the day was Ron Davis at 2’6”.

The format for the competition on February 8 was ABCD Points. Finishing in first place was the team of Tom Amedee, Joe Doyle, Tony Holt and Pat Jarrell with a score of minus 6. Second place was won by the team of Renny Pangan, Berni Breen, Lee Bell and Lenny Alphonso with a score of minus 9. Finishing third was the team of George Thibodeaux, John Benus and John Bunce. In fourth place was the team of Whitey LeJeune, Dave Barbato, Ronnie Austin and Joe Murray.

Closest to the pin winners were Renny Pangan, John Bunce, Lenny Alphonso and Tom Amedee. Closest shot of the day was Tom Amedee at 1’7”.

I’ll see you on the course.

DWGa By collEEn JonEs

It was normal January weather and we were lucky to only miss one playday because of weather. On January 5th we played our monthly Trophy Day Net scoring on the Cardinal course. The Overall Winner was Jeanne Hudgins with a score of 70. The first flight winner was Marta Wald with a score of 72. Second place was Karen Dougherty with a score of 73. Third place was a tie between Bet Bowen and Joyce Teerling with a score of 74. The second flight winner

was Kim Knight with a score of 74. Second place was Dianne Ackerman with a score of 77. Third place was a tie between Colleen Jones and Joanne Fried with a score of 78. Closest to the pin was Marta Wald on hole #4 and hole #17. Karen Daugherty on hole #13. Karen Daugherty also had a birdie. Chip ins were had by Bet Bowen, Dianne Ackerman and Karen Daugherty had two of them.

January 12th: it rained on us after we had started.

January 19th: we played best 9 holes out of 18 holes on the Cardinal course. First flight winner was Margie James with a score of 28. Second place was Amy Swint with a score of 30 and third place was Jodi Crosby with a score of 32. Second flight winner was Joanne Fried with a score of 28. There was a tie for second place between Dianne Ackerman and Denise Burgeron with a score of 30. Closest to the pin was Joanne Fried on hole #4 and hole #17. Marta Wald on hole #7 and Jodi Crosby on hole #13. Joanne Fried had a birdie. Chip ins were had by Amy Swint and Dianne Ackerman.

January 26th: we played the game of Cha, Cha, Cha on the Cardinal course. The first place team was Liz Bell, Amy Swint, Lottie Williams and Patti Hourin with a score of 143. The second place team was Jodi Crosby, Terri Woolbright,

DWGA -- Joanne Fried and Margie James Flight Winners of Best 9 of 18 holes

COLDWELL BANKER 7TH PAGE

Carol Kirschenbaum and Carole Griffin with a score of 143. Closest to the pin were Patti Hourin on hole #4, Jodi Crosby on hole #7, Linda Metz on hole #13 and Liz Bell on hole #17. A birdie was had by Georgeann Luxion. Chip ins were had by Lottie Williams and Carol Kirshenbaum.

DWGan GolFinG nEWs FroM JanUary oF 2023

By shirlEy halTErMan

And a New Year has dawned on us! We are anxious to see what golfing adventures we will encounter this coming year.

Our year began with the usual First Tuesday Trophy Day played on the back nine of the Cardinal Course. While the weather did not look promising, 13 brave ladies turned out to play despite the weather. Following are the results of the day’s competition. Congrats to Judy Tauzin and Patti Blackwood for scoring the firstI Chipins of 2023. Special thanks to all who were brave enough to come out to play. The Low Net competition results were as follows: Flight 1 winners - 1st Place = Toni Rossol, 2nd Place = Therese Mauterer, and 3rd Place = Tammy Lippon. In Flight 2 the winners were: 1st Place = Kathy Jones, 2nd Place = Pattie Blackwood, and 3rd Place = Nancy Sislow. Lowest Putts in Flight 1 showed a tie between Toni Rossol and Tammy Lappon. Nancy Sislow took 1st place in Flight 2. When it came to Closest-to-the-Pin, Tammy Lippon in the First Flight came closest with her second shot, Judy Brannan was closest in the Second Flight with her first shot. Good way to start the New Year gals!

On the Second Tuesday of the month, January 10th, the game was Odd Holes played on the Front Nine of the Pine. This time the weather was more cooperative and 29 of our members turned out to compete. During this game, only the scores on the odd numbered holes are tallied. Flight One Low Net Winners were: 1st Place - Therese Mauterer, 2nd Place - Ann Nutting, and 3rd Place Toni Rossol. Flight Two Winners included: 1st Place - Kim Knight, 2nd PlaceJanice Murray and 3rd Place - Carroll Gothie. When it came to Flight Three, 1st Place went to Shirley Halterman, 2nd Place to Kathy Jones and 3rd Place to Judith Brannan. In Flight Four, Sue Hebert came in first, Sylvia Corban was second and Brigitte Becker took third place.

On the following Tuesday, the game was Whack & Hack. To explain, we will play as teams and each player keeps their own score. At the completion of the hole, you take the lowest net score (Whack) and add it to the highest net score (Hack) for the total team score for the hole. There is one exception, if a player birdies the hole, the team is allowed to combine the two lowest scores. 33 gals signed up, but due to iffy

weather, only 23 players joined the group. As Mother Nature was kind, the sun came out; and we were able to complete the game. Playing the back nine of the Cardinal course, the First Place Team with a score of 72 was composed of Brigitte Becker, Carroll Gothie, Mary Craig Murray, and Toni Rossol. Second Place with a score of 77 went to the team of Judi Brannan, Jerry Ingraham, Therese Mauterer and Cheryl Saak. And in a score card playoff, Third Place with a score of 79 the team of Nancy Barker, Kathy Jones, Janice Murray and Judy Tauzin. In addition, during this round, Judy Tauzin scored a Chip-In on Hole #16 and Carroll Gothie had a Birdie on Hole #13. It was a fun and challenging game.

While Tuesday, January 24th, proved quite chilly, 24 fearless gals showed up to play a 2 Person Alternate Shot game on the front Nine of the Pine Course. The winning 1st Place Team with a score of 34 was comprised of Patty Blackwood and Toni Rossol. In 2nd Place (on a scorecard playoff) with a score of 37 was the team of Tracey Garriga and Kathy Jones. Gale Lammers and Therese Mauterer came in 3rd Place with a similar score. While the 4th place team of Sharon Gerchow and Georgeann Luxion had a score of 38.

On our final Tuesday of the month, the morning proved to be very foggy and the course was quite wet. Twenty-two players ventured out to play a Scramble on the Back of the Cardinal Course. The First Place winning team with a Low Gross score of 35 included Brigitte Becker, Therese Mauterer and Nancy Sislow. The Second Place Team with a score of 40 included Nancy Barker, Kim Knight, Gale Lammers, and Janice Murray. Not to be left out, the Third Place Team of Judi Brannan, Susie Fontenot, Dinah Knobloch and Lenna Weisenhorn posted a score of 41.

We certainly hope February brings fairer weather for our golfing games and thought you would enjoy the cartoon our Handicap & Tournament Chairman, Brigitte, included after the fairly muddy play during the last week of the month.

DWGA -- Jeanne Hudgins the Overall Trophy Day Winner.

ThE TEnnis clUB

aT DiaMonDhEaD

Spring League is starting soon with teams formed at every level. If you want to play on a team, please contact Matt for your captain’s name and team number. If you’ve never played on a league team before, give it a try! It’s a lot of fun and the tennis is great!!

All of the light poles have been replaced, which we owe a big thanks to the maintenance department for getting them up so quickly. We are now ready for spring season to start. Thanks for your patience during this replacement period.

Did you know: Australian Open:

• When Novak Djokovic won the 2023 Australian Open this past month, it was the 22nd major ti-

tle earned in his career! He has won a total of 93 singles titles on the ATP tour – WOW!!

• Aryna Sabalenka won her first grand slam title this year at the Australian Open. She has 18 career titles in total – 12 in singles and 6 in doubles.

Tennis Club Community Project of the Month

There was no project proposed for this month. Please let KK Walk know if you have a program you would like to help support for the next month.

This month at The Tennis Club:

If you would like a social activity added to the calendar, please give Matt or Donna a call to discuss. We are always looking for new and fun

ways to get folks on the courts!

Message from Matt

We are starting the busy time of year with both Hancock and St Stanislaus/Ola high schools playing here. Also league season is starting up with 11 teams signed up for the spring season which is great. Good Luck to all teams!

Tennis Club Information:

Tennis Pro: Matt Garman (228) 255- 5030

Director of Recreation at Diamondhead, Tennis Admin: Donna Goedde (228)255-1900 EXT.171

Email address: Diamondheadtennisclub@dhpoa.org

Reserve a court: Call the club @ 228-255-5030

Diamondhead Aviator: A jewel within a jewel

By PaUl GilBErT

We’ve seen a few days with temperatures dipping into the thirties and even the twenties. At least that frigid air is great for aircraft performance. While an eighty-degree summer day forces our sea level airport to a density altitude of around two thousand feet, a brisk forty degree day will drive it down to over a thousand feet below sea level. A Cessna 172 will use a hundred feet less runway, and climb will increase by a couple hundred feet per minute.

We’ve seen a steady flow of aircraft flying in to take advantage of our great gas prices as well as cold weather performance. One couple passed through in a beautiful twin-engine Cessna 310R on their way to Oklahoma.

I spoke with the owner of the Cessna T240 Corvalis, pictured above, while he filled his tanks before continuing to Houston. He was very impressed with our airport and fly-in community

and as an avid golfer, he said he’d come check out our golfing community when he had more time.

There is definitely a link between pilots and golf. I think it’s the technical challenge of both activities that attracts us.

Our unique jewel on the Coast

When I tell coworkers that I live in an aviation community, they are amazed and a bit envious. I can understand why. Many pilots would love seeing airplanes taxi by their homes every day, but it usually comes at a high price. Many aviation communities are very exclusive with multi-million-dollar homes lining the taxiways. Celebrities

like Tom Cruise and John Travolta have enjoyed this same lifestyle. Jumbolair, John Travolta’s current home in Ocala, Florida, has a 7550-foot runway that can accommodate his corporate jets.

Our 3800-foot runway won’t supports jets, but our airport and home site layout is unique to the aviation community world.

The majority of aviation communities are little more than a stretch of grass with homes lining the sides. While landing on grass is fun, it poses problems for aircraft as large dips can form after hard rainfalls. That rain can also turn a beautiful grass runway into a muddy mess that could swallow aircraft tires. And insurance companies charge a little more for aircraft that are based at airports served by grass runways.

In addition to a hard surface runway, we have hard surface taxiways leading to the homes. This feature can only be found in places like Spruce Creek Airpark just south of Daytona Beach, Florida. The former Navy

airfield was converted to an aviation community that currently has over seven hundred hangars and multi-million-dollar homes lining the taxiways. Although we don’t have hundreds of homes in our community, prospective buyers are pleasantly surprised that they don’t have to lay down a couple million on a home with a taxiway view.

Our dedicated taxiways are also a unique feature. Many places have dual-use roads that serve both planes and cars. Our dedicated taxiways increase safety by keeping cars and planes separated.

With all those unique features and the other amenities our community offers, as well as our proximity to beaches and casinos, the Diamondhead Aviation Community is a jewel within a jewel on the beautiful Gulf Coast that I’m thrilled to come home to, by either car or plane.

Till next month, fair skies and tailwinds,

Paul Gilbert aviatorandwriter@gmail.com

We’re getting into the busy season at the Diamondhead Tennis Club.

A Cessna filling up at the Diamondhead Airport. Photo by Paul Gilbert.

Helping our lonely, isolated seniors

Sobering statistics provided by the U.S. Surgeon General indicate one third of seniors suffer from loneliness and isolation.

More than 65 million older adults live in our country comprising 16.9%of our population with those over 65 engage in relatively few social interactions and are considered to be socially isolated.

The combination of age, poor health, and poverty result in many seniors living a quiet, lonely, and sadly depressing life. Many seniors caught in poverty lacked the education, skill, and ability to earn a decent wage even I their prime and years as well as later life.

Why do our seniors have it so hard? Poverty puts a dimmer on social activity along with the aches and pains of aging that also discourage social interaction of a large segment of the older population. Aging contributes to poverty based on the reduced number of jobs for which they meet the qualifications.

Poverty is also a factor due to the breakup of the extended families and seniors now living on their own without the benefit of family living nearby for support.

Just a simple change of a light bulb that requires a ladder is a daunting project for an elder person living on his/her own. The social network has large gaps and many of our seniors fall through them.

Many seniors in poor health and limited funds stay home because they do not have the means to go places, and also have nowhere to go. Now that they are not in the working world, there is no structure to their lives and as a result many are suffering from depression and loneliness.

Fortunately for the seniors living in Diamondhead the Village-to-Vil-

lage committee has begun a series of educational, recreational, and physical fitness activities designed for our senior to help them live a fuller and more active life.

The City has a large room in City Hall that is able to accommodate these programs. The turnout has been large with enthusiastic seniors participating in these programs.

This room is able to accommodate a Senior Citizen Center and research is currently being done to see if having a senior center in our community is a viable option.

Amid the sea of indifference to the needs of seniors, our community is now in the process of finding ways to help all of our seniors, from those who are needy to those who find themselves socially isolated with no place to go each day.

In a relatively short period of time the Village-to-Village program has put on several large events for seniors.

The Diamondhead Senior Village meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00am - Noon at city hall in the activity room. We also have a Facebook page with the calendar of events. For more information you can email us at diamondheadvillagetovillage@gmail.com or message us on Facebook.

Van Gogh Sighting at Boaters Ball

By linDa ThiBoDaUx

The Boaters held its annual Coronation Ball for the year 2023 by welcoming its guests with an entryway filled with twinkling lights that duplicated stars in the night. The theme of this event was “Starry Starry Night”. A duplication of VanGogh’s painting of Starry Night was placed in the back of the ballroom for picture taking. The ballroom was decorated with blue and silver decorations. Commodore Audrey Ramirez began the ball and introduced the Master of Ceremony for the evening, Ron Rech, who entered from the back of the ballroom while “Starry, Starry Night” by Don Mclean was played. Ron introduced the special guests, attending past royalty of the Krewe of Kamehameha, royalty from other Krewes in Diamondhead, and the Coronation Ball theme.

Members of the outgoing court (2022) came in winding their way through all the tables handing out beads while “Bourbon Street Parade” was played. The court members in attendance were: Duke Art Burgoyne and Maid Pat Burgoyne, Duke Bob Krake and Maid Kay Krake, and Equerry Jim Miller and Lady-in-Waiting Jean Miller. We bid farewell to our royalty of last year King Akua Kai the 46th, Val Miller and his Queen Barbara Miller, as “If Ever I Cease To Love” played and they promenaded around the dance floor, then onto the stage, and were seated on the thrones.

MC Ron Rech then read

the resume’ of the new recipient of the Royal Dolphin Award. Queen Barbara then presented the Royal Dolphin medallion to this year’s recipient Dinah Knobloch. This award recognizes a loyal

subject who has made special contributions to the Boaters’ organization and elevates her to a Peer of the Realm of Kamehameha. Past recipients were also recognized. With the playing of “Her-

and Queen Elaine on behalf of the former monarchs of the Krewe of Kamehameha. King Ronnie toasted his beautiful Queen Elaine. After toasting, the royal gifts were presented by Audrey Ramirez, Dinah Knobloch, and Janie Dropco.

The court was introduced. The Dukes were attired in black tuxedos and the Maids’ gowns in silver and black. The members of the 2023 court were as follows: Duke Tim Kennedy and Maid Kelly Kennedy, Duke Lynn Cox and Maid LouAnn Cox, Equerry Ken Quebedeaux and Lady-in-Waiting Barbara Quebedeaux. They all paraded in to “Lucky Star” by Madonna.

ald Calls”, everyone turned their attention to the back of the ballroom where the doors opened for the court of 2023. The M. C. announced King-elect Akua Kai the 47th, Ronnie LaFontaine and Queen-elect Elaine LaFontaine. The King was attired in a black tails and the Queen looked beautiful in a gown of navy and silver with accents of rhinestones and sequins. The audience had tiny lights that flashed like tiny stars. The royal couple promenaded around the dance floor and then on to the stage where they were seated on the royal thrones.

King Val pronounced Ronnie as King Akua Kai 47th, while Queen Barbara pronounced Elaine as Queen Elaine of the Krewe of Kamehameha. The new monarchs rise rose with the outgoing royalty and a toast was proposed to King Ronnie

King Ronnie and Queen Elaine wanted the audience to know that they shared their reign with them, their friends and families, and that this would be the highlight of their season. “Starry, Starry Night” will be a night to remember. The new royalty had their first dance as the new royalty. The court, King Val and Queen Barbara joined them for the remainder of the dance.

Following the dance, the M. C. announced the special guests of the King and Queen. A royal dinner was then enjoyed by all which was prepared by Diamondhead Country Club. Johnny Fung and his band was introduced and thanked for the wonderful music for dancing and dining.

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Pat Burgoyne, Ball Chair-

ABOVE: The Boaters Royal Court after their coronation. BELOW: The Boaters Royal Courtelect. Photos taken by James Cook, II, JC2 Photography (www.JC2Photography.com).

Krewe of Diamondhead’s 48th annual Mardi Gras Ball Celebrates 007

The Krewe of Diamondhead held its 48th annual Mardi Gras ball with the theme of “007,” on February 11, 2023 in the Emerald Ball Room of the Diamondhead Country Club. For the opening of the tableau the National Anthem was sung by Mike McGraw.

The Master of ceremonies, Kirschenbaum, John Kirschenbaum, was introduced to the theme song from “A View To A Kill” by Duran Duran. Once at the podium, Kirschenbaum gave a brief history of the Krewe and welcomed all in attendance.

The visiting royalty were welcomed to the evening festivities; in attendance were Krewe of Selene, Kevin and Sarah Parrington; Krewe of Olympus, Wayne and Joann Ponthier and Krewe of Boaters Ronnie and Elaine La Fontaine.

The officers and directors from the Krewe of Diamondhead were introduced and thanked for their tireless efforts in all business and event functions.

In preparation of the evening’s celebration, the Krewe was presented with the Past Kings to the music of “Carnival Time.” Returning for the event were 2013 HRH Mickey Hatem, 2019 HRH Ron Rhoades, 2020 HRH Scott McNamee, 2021 HRH Kevin Parrington and 2022 HRH Joe Doyle. Unable to attend the event was 2001 HRH Don Perkins.

Once the Royal Guard was in place the Krewe welcomed Captain Ricky Sheppard,

Bond and Octopussy for the evening were Duke David Ciolino and Maid June Curtin. They moved their way through the ballroom to the song “Gold Finger” by Shirley Bassey.

The music faded and all eyes were on the door for the next Bond and Bond Girl. This time the Krewe visited one of the most memorable scenes from any of the 007 movies. Who could ever forget the white bikini from “Dr. No.” Taking on Bond and Honey Ryder were Duke Craig Harvey and Maid Lalet Harvey. They sashayed through the crowd to “Under the Mango Tree” by John Barry.

who played the part of M, head of MI6. Sheppard entered to “Quantum of Solace” by Alicia Keys & Jack White.

A celebration of 007 cannot be had without a villain. The role of Nick Nack, from “The Man with The Golden Gun,” was Dominic Giarrusso who entered the ballroom to much applause and excitement as he presented the golden gun to Captain Ricky Sheppard.

As everyone was in place, all attention turned to the anticipation of the royal court, who took on different James Bond and Bond girl personas. The first chapter of the 007 tales delve into the world of mystery, intrigue and romance. Sauntering into the ballroom as

Once on stage the audience was prime for their next 007 and Bond Girl. Flying high after defeating Goldfinger, James Bond and Pussy Galore graced the ballroom to excited applause. Taking on the roles of James Bond and Pussy Galore were Duke Darryl Davis and Maid Judy Davis, who strolled through the room to “Die Another Day” by Madonna.

The next duo portrayed James Bond and Holly Goodhead from the film, “Moonraker”. This 007 and his Bond Girl saved all human life before they took their positions as Duke and Maid for the evening. Embracing their roles as James Bond and Holly Goodhead, Duke Randy Rogers and Maid Marci Rogers strolled through the

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2023 Krewe of Diamondhead Royal Court. (LtoR seated) Maid Judy Davis, Maid Lalet Harvey, Queen Suzy Smith, Maid Marci Rogers, Maid June Curtin; (standing) Page Calli Holmes, Duke Darryl Davis, Duke Craig Harvey, King Hoppy Smith, Duke Randy Rogers and Duke David Ciolino and Brissa Holmes. All Photography by Portraits by Penny.

Ali’I Honua the 48th Hoppy Smith and his Queen Suzy Smith.

Olympus braves ‘Fire and Ice’

By lEannE GUiDry

Olympus dared to brave the elements of Fire and Ice during the Krewe’s grand ball held on January 21, 2023.

The soiree’s dueling theme dazzled partygoers with oversized snowflakes, faux flaming urns, ice chandeliers and endless blue and red décor. King Zeus XV, Wayne Ponthier and Queen Hera XV, JoAnn Ponthier’s Fire and Ice dream was beautifully constructed by the creative team of Sandy Noon and Candy Motz.

While guests enjoyed cocktails amongst the spectacular decorations, Southern Voice played, setting a festive mood. The evening was designed for elegant and regal pageantry, but Olympus’ 2023 Grand Ball added a touch of dramatic flair to tradition!

Master of ceremonies, Eileen O’Brien, kicked off the Krewe’s 15th annual Mardi Gras ball. Game of Thrones theme song, “Fire and Ice” ushered Eileen in as she sashayed her way through the crowd into The Club at Diamondhead’s Emerald ballroom.

Acknowledgments were given to the members of the Krewe of Janus’ founding members Bob and Diane Meith, and visiting Diamondhead royalty who were in attendance. Olympus’ presented its first Greek Column Award to Doug and Betty Maxwell for their unwavering devotion to the organization over the years. These honored guests and awards

were all recognized prior to the 2023 royal court’s grand entrance.

The master of ceremonies asked partygoers to watch the large screen in the corner of the room, adding to the anticipation of the court’s debut. An audio-video presen-

tation of Fire and Ice with high energy music and visually striking images awed the crowd. A second video followed of a thunderstorm and lighting presenting the God Zeus that played while Eileen gave a monologue about God Zeus, Goddess Hera,

As master of ceremonies said, “We now present Olympus’ 2023 Apollo Ken Griffey, and the lovely Aphrodite, Angela Griffey”, the room turned to watch Apollo and Aphrodite walk out to the song “Bourbon Street Parade”. Apollo XV, Ken Griffey looked smashing in his top hat, and black tux with tails. Aphrodite XV, Angela Griffey looked stunning wearing a red trumpet style gown with lightly jeweled flowered appliques sporting a sweetheart neckline.

Apollo, and Aphrodite.

Three trumpets’ blasts, fog filled the back of the room, “If ever I cease to Love” played as King Zeus XV Wayne Ponthier and his Queen Hera XV, JoAnn Ponthier stepped out from the back of the heavily adorned ballroom. King Wayne looked very regal in his all-white tux with tails wearing Olympus’ train and collar. Queen JoAnn was gorgeous in her embellished silver sequins gown with plunging neckline, side split and champagne lining. The Queen’s dress was designed by Ienna for Mac Duggal, and her necklace was designed by Designer Heidi Daus. Queen Hera XV, JoAnn’s crown sparkled under the ballroom lights with over 800 Swarovski Crystals. The royal couple glided from table to table making their way to the stage. Once seated Queen JoAnn had a motorized peacock follow them up the isle representing the Goddess Hera’s pet peacock!

This organization is the only carnival krewe in Diamondhead to bestow the title of debutante to a few ladies every season. These accomplished and extraordinary young women were selected to represent Olympus on the night of the Fire and Ice ball. “Thank Heaven for Little Girls”, played while Caroline Maillho was escorted by her father, Mr. Brant Maillho, and Avery Clair Matheson was escorted by her father, Dr. Duncan Matheson IV. Both ladies wore lovely white gowns with dainty tiaras, and were presented with Krewe medallions by Debutante Chair, Sharon McDonough. Avery and Caroline were celebrated not only by Olympus guests, but also by their families and peers who attended. The pageantry continued with the presentation of gifts and traditional toasts. Queen Hera XIV, Eva Amos, presented the royal flowers to Queen Hera XV, Joann Ponthier and Aphrodite XV,

Left to Right, Committeeman, Shane Finley; Debutante, Avery Matheson; Debutante, Caroline Maillho; King Zeus XV, Wayne Ponthier; Queen Hera XV, JoAnn Ponthier; Aphrodite XV, Angela Griffey; Apollo XV, Ken Griffey; Committeeman, Martin Guidry and Committeeman Jack Allen. Photography by Craig Macaluso

King Zeus XV, Wayne Ponthier and Queen Hera XV, JoAnn Ponthier. Photography by Craig Macaluso

Selene Loves Diamonds and Tiffany’s!

The Krewe of Selene in Diamondhead has had a very busy 2022-2023 Carnival Season. On November 12, 2022, the Krewe of Selene held its Coronation Ball and crowned its 24th Queen Sarah Schafer Parrington and King Endymius 24th Kevin Parrington.

Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend was the theme for the ball, and Dinah Knobloch served as the Mistress of Ceremonies. Doug Maxwell was the music director. Duties for chairing the ball were shared by Kim Koppman and Karla Perry.

Queen Sarah Schafer is a member of the United States Coast Guard and currently holds the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Four. She has served almost 25 years and worked in many different positions: Admin onboard the USCG Cutter Munro, Senior Yeoman to District Nine Admiral in Cleveland, Ohio, Law enforcement and Intelligence Branch, Leadership and Management Instructor of the Department of Homeland Security and Housing Officer for 26 states.

King Kevin Parrington has been a house painter, jeweler, and now has almost 23 years of service in the United States Coast Guard. He holds the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Three.

Through the years King Kevin has specialized in Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement, Drug Interdiction, Ice Operations, Marine Inspections, Marine causalities, and investigations.

Military Orders brought the couple to the Coast, but Queen Sarah was familiar

with Diamondhead because her mother owned a home here. Together Queen Sarah and King Kevin have 3 sons.

The Krewe of Selene also welcomed the Court for 2022-

23: First Goddess Annette Williams and Duke Mark Miller. Annette’s dad Bill Willams served as the King of Selene in 2010. Also serving on the Court

for the theme of the ball. Henry Mancini was the composer of the score, and the title song “Moon River” was selected song of the year in 1961. The members of the Court entered to songs from the movie sound track.

The Founder and Captain of the Krewe Terri Downie entered the ballroom to the “Moon River Cha Cha”. She was escorted by Mr. Mark Cuevas.

The first couple on the Court to enter were Goddess Margaret Giarusso and Duke Trey Giarusso to the tune “Something for the Cat”.

are Goddess Cerah Pavelski and Duke Daniel Pavelski, Goddess Tangi Mongrue and Duke Brent Dichiara, Goddess Margaret Giarusso and Duke Trey Giarusso.

On January 14, 2023, the Krewe Of Selene celebrated its 2023 Mardi Gras Ball. The theme for the night’s event was a visit to Tiffany’s in New York City. New York is the home of Navy Fleet Week, New Year’s Eve in Times Square, and the greatest shopping for luxury jewelry in the world at Tiffany’s on 5th Avenue.

The Mistress of Ceremonies Tracy Sheppard entered the ballroom to the music “Diamond Girl”.

As an introduction to the theme of the ball, the Selene Dancers dressed as sailors, fancy ladies, and tourists entered the ballroom and performed to the music from the movie On the Town “New York, New York”.

The movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s, a favorite of the Queens, was the inspiration

Next, Goddess Tangie Mongrue and Duke Brent Dichiarra entered to the music “Latin Golightly”.

The third Goddess and Duke Cerah and Daniel Pavelski entered to “Hub Caps and Tail Lights”.

The last members of the Court to be presented were First Goddess Annette Williams and First Duke Mark Miller. They entered to “Loose Caboose”.

All the Goddesses were dressed in long black dresses, long black gloves, pearl necklaces with rhinestone pendant, and rhinestone tiara crowns. All in the style of Audrey Hepburn from the Breakfast at Tiffany’s movie. The Dukes were dressed in the traditional black tuxedoes.

After 3 trumpet calls, the MC introduced the King Kevin Parrington. He entered dressed in a Tiffany Blue tuxedo jacket with black ac-

The Royal Court of the Krewe of the Krewe of Selene.

The Krewe of Selene’s Queen Sarah Schafer and King Kevin Parrington.

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Angela Griffey. Apollo XIV, Ronnie Craig presented the royal flag to the King and Queen. Lively toasts were made before, King Wayne and his Queen had their first royal dance to one of their favorite songs, “Through the Eyes of Love” from the movie Ice Castles. Queen JoAnn’s light silvery gown gave the essences of frost glittering on ice as King Wayne twirled her around on the dance floor, and the true revelry began as their royal subjects joined them on the dance floor!

Krewe of Olympus would like to pass on special and sincere thanks to the following people. Music man, Doug Maxwell, who graciously provided his time, and all the tableau music for the event. Committee-men Jack Allen,

SELENE

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cessories. He also wore the traditional Krewe of Selene mantle and train. King Kevin entered to the Mardi Gras favorite “If Ever I Cease to Love”.

After the trumpet herald calls, the MC introduced Queen Sarah Schafer Parrington. The Queen entered to “If Ever I Cease to Love” wearing the most beautiful Tiffany Blue jewel encrusted gown. She also wore the traditional Krewe of Selene train and the gorgeous Queens mantle.

Both the Queen and King were assisted by pages Ragan Pavelski and Aden Parrington. Ragan is the daughter of Cerah and Daniel

Shane Finely, and Martin Guidry for helping usher royalty and members of the tableau safely to and from the stage. New Orleans Photographer, Craig Macaluso, was superb, and exceeded the groups expectations. The Club at Diamondhead’s wonderful staff displayed professionalism and excellent food and hospitality. In addition, the Grand Ball committee and board were thankful to Josette Grace who stepped up on the night of the affair and provided guidance.

Olympus has another fabulous Grand Ball come to an end! The Krewe will continue to have festivities throughout 2023 with its next event March 11th, Greek Spring Soiree. May King Zeus XV, Wayne and Queen Hera XV, JoAnn’s reign be glorious. Happy Mardi Gras, and laissez les bons temps rouler!

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Continued from Page 27 Krewe to “Nobody Does It Better” by Carly Simon.

The Dukes were dressed in traditional black tuxedos with gold vests, while the Maids each wore beautiful gowns of gold. Once the Dukes and Maids took their places on stage, the fanfare sounded to alert the Krewe for the presentation of royalty.

To the traditional music of the Royal March, Her Royal Highness, Queen Suzy Smith, escorted by her father Henry Burkhardt, made her way into the ballroom wearing a beautiful gold and white gown, which was complimented by her gold crown and scepter. The Queen’s attendants for the evening were Calli Holmes and Brissa Holmes.

Taylor, Jay and Jackie Coakley, Mike and Melissa Reso, Cheryl Giarrusso, Tom Wood and Deril Greenhaw, Father Paddy Mockler, Dr. Peter Fos, and Dr. Lori Fos, Dennis and Patty Holmes, and Mark Powell.

The Krewe paid respect to the past Queens of Carnival for their reign and continuous service. In attendance were 1996 HRH Alice Burkhardt, 2003 HRH Till Garrison, 2012 HRH Pat Sheehy, 2013 HRH Sandy Hatem, 2015 HRH Josette Grace, 2018 HRH Sarah Garcia, 2019 HRH Dinah Rhoades, 2020 HRH Jamie Morgan, 2021 HRH Sarah Schafer-Parrington and 2022 HRH Cheryl Doyle. Unable to attend the evenings festivities were 2002 HRH Carrie Perkins and 2010 HRH Janie Dropco.

vet band.

The DJ for the event’s tableau was Ron Tallent and the official photographer for the royal court was Penny Majors.

The Krewe of Diamondhead will hold their traditional Mardi Gras parade on February 18. They will wrap up their season with the annual Country Western party on April 15th.

The Krewe will also be planning many events that do not limit themselves to the Mardi Gras season. Events such as dinners, dances and outings of all types will make the Krewe more fun than ever. There has never been a better time to become a member of our Krewe. Memberships to the Krewe will open again in June. Please visit our Facebook page for more information.

Pavelski. Aden Parrington is the son of the Queen and King.

Also assisting in the ball were Floor Lieutenants Drew Schafer and Owen Schafer. They are the sons of the Queen and King.

Entertaining the Royal Court were the Selene Dancers and Ilene Catoire. Ilene sang “New York, New York” and the Selene Dancers performed to “On Broadway”. Selene Dancers are Jeannie

Carapetian, Lou Ann Cox, June Curtin, Pam Hense, Gail Hutchings, Cindy McNamee, Pam Marshall, Mary Mizell, Leslie O’Neill, Barbara Quebedeaux, Jenny Ramirez, Suzy Smith, Gayla Torguson, Kelly Torguson, Sue Warren. The entertainment was choreagraphed by Mary Mizell and Suzy Smith.

Waiting with great pride, the court, as well as the Krewe, welcomed Ali’I Honua the 48th, Hoppy Smith, to the traditional music, “If I Ever Cease to Love.” The King wore traditional white tails, gold crown and carried his scepter.

The King took his place on stage next to his queen and surrounded by his royal court as they prepared to recognize their special guests for the evening.

The King and Queen paid recognition at their thrones to special guests, 2022 HRH Joseph Doyle and his Queen Cheryl Doyle, and Don and Brenda Smith. Each were presented in royal fashion and then took their seats.

The King and Queen also recognized special guests in attendance of the evening’s festivities. Those recognized were Derrik Fair and Sarah Buchanan, Jimmy and Gena

Next up 2021 HRH Sarah Parrington led the nights entertainment which included, explosions, smoke, numerous James Bonds and two golden dancers. The audience was thrilled with the action-packed entertainment for the evening.

At the conclusion of the entertainment, Ali’I Honua the 48th offered the traditional toast to the Krewe. They exited the ballroom to “Dr. No Them Song by Monty Norman & John Barry

King Hoppy and Queen Suzy led the evening’s dancing to the song “We have all the time in the World,” by Louis Armstrong. The royal court and then all past Kings and Queens were asked to join in the first dance.

The Krewe then enjoyed a fantastic Mardi Gras surf and turf dinner, prepared by the Diamondhead Country Club staff. Dancing and merriment continued throughout the evening as the Black Vel-

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man, thanked Doug Maxwell for providing the tableau music, Hank Fried for managing the spot lighting, Carol Lilly for the invitations, Sue Warren for Reservations and Marilyn Lott and her committee for the decorations.

King Ronnie and Queen Elaine led all guests in the “Second Line” as our newest royalty. Everyone came to the center of the dance floor with umbrellas and napkins.