Saturday, October 26 A Special Supplement of
Thank You from the
Left to Right are: Genevieve Hester, Andrea Banach, Cheryl Bigham - Vice President, Kim Kellerman, Julie Wilder - Secretary, Jeff Egbert, Betti Mucha - President, Ashley Bathon, Kathy Kellerman - Treasurer, Dana Carney - Executive Director. Not pictured Kim Stotlar, Cheryl Coffel, Dan Breslin.
102 years of Mardi Gras... I thought that 100 years was a huge milestone, but as we continue to add to that 100 it seems even more surreal. When a community can sustain an event for over 100 years, that speaks volumes about the dedication and drive individuals must have to continue a legacy. And while I will admit to not having a lot of knowledge about the very early years of Mardi Gras, I know that those roots run deep within this community and surrounding areas. Even though the rain put a damper on things in 2023, the community still showed up and supported our efforts the best that they could. For us Chamber Board Members, this was a testament to how deeply the community feels connected to the Mardi Gras festivities. Thank you to all the volunteers that help us during the months leading up to Mardi Gras and even after the event is over. The Chamber Board could not accomplish Mardi Gras without the help our Executive Director, Dana, and we appreciate all that she does. Thank you to our many sponsors. We hope the 102nd Mardi Gras is enjoyed by many and we look forward to seeing everyone.
Betti Mucha Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce Board President
On the Cover..........................Page 3
Schedule of Events...................Page 4
Mardi Gras Queen Farewell....Page 5
50/50 Drawing..........................Page 6
T-Shirts for Sale....................... Page 6
2024 Queen Pageant..............Page 8
2024 Queen Candidates.........Page 8
Queen’s Court Pages..............Page 9
2024 Mardi Gras Pageant...... Page 10
Past Mardi Gras Queens........Page 10
2024 Mardi Gras Queen....... Page 11
2023 Pageant Memories............Page 12
Children’s Parade.................Page 13
Business Trick or Treat..........Page 14
Center Court Activities......... Page 16
Craft & Vendor Fair............. Page 17
Other Activities....................... Page 18
Precious Pumpkin................ Page 20
Perry County Jail Museum ..... Page 21
Parade Map............................Page 22
Road Closings....................... Page 23
Mardi Gras Field Show......... Page 24
Mardi Gras Parade.................Page 26
Grand Marshals......................Page 27
HAM Radio.......................... Page 28
MG Parade Live Stream .........Page 29
Live Entertainment..............Page 30
102 Years of MG Memories.... Page 32
Chamber Thank You............Page 46
Happy Mardi Gras!!!
On the Cover
“Wonders of the World” is the 2024 Mardi Gras theme. Check out the T-shirts this year featuring this design. Design was submitted by Kaitlyn Goldman. Pinckneyville Mardi Gras is now celebrating 102 Years!
Pinckneyville chamber of commerce
executive board: chairman – betti mucha vice chairman – cheryl bigham Secretary – Julie Wilder treaSurer – kathy kellerman board memberS: andrea bannach
aShley bathon dan breSlin cheryl coffel
Jeff egbert genevieve heSter kim kellerman kim Stotlar
executive director - dana carney
The Weekly-Press is the successor newspaper of the Du Quoin Weekly and Pinckneyville Press.
Jeff Egbert, Publisher
Stephanie Waller, General Manager
Amanda Holmes, Graphic Design and Layout
Pete Spitler, Editor
Sydnee Baxter, Advertising
Joey Holmes, Photography
Pat Bathon, Administrative Secretary
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2023 Mardi Gras Queen Farewell
From the little girl sitting in the crowd, to the woman, and queen, standing on-stage. For years I have watched young ladies of Southern Illinois grace this stage, dreaming of the day it would finally be my turn. To say this year was a dream come true, would be an understatement. I’ve grown up enjoying every aspect of the Mardi Gras Festival, from the halloween parade, business trick-or-treat, vendor fair, to the fabulous Mardi Gras parade that lights up the streets of Pinckneyville; I mean, what’s not to love! Although this past year’s festival was a bit rainy, nothing could have ruined my time as Queen. I put on my rain boots, grabbed my umbrella, and did just as any other Queen would have done. Standing on top of the Queen’s float in my sparkling gown, soaking wet I may add, was everything I could have imagined, and more. Thank you to my family and friends for always supporting my endeavors. Whether that’s screaming for me in the crowd, or coming to my many events as Queen. I love you all so much and glad you have been a part of my journey. To my directors, Ashley and Betti, you two have been such wonderful supporters. Thanks for always telling me what to do, where I need to be, and when, cause we all know Mardi Gras can get a little hectic, especially as Queen. To the Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce, thank you for allowing me to be a representative of our community this year. I appreciate your support and have absolutely loved my time as Queen this year. To Pinckneyville, thank you for always showing up and giving your endless support to the Mardi Gras festival. You all have lived up to Pinckneyville’s “friendly little city” expectations. Lastly, to the ladies backstage. Although only one of you will walk away with the crown tonight, you all will walk away with love and support from me and the other ladies standing beside you. You have gained new friendships and opportunities through this experience. I am proud of you, and I hope you are too. To whomever the next queen, you are entering a sisterhood of past queens that goes back decades. Wear your crown, sash, and cape with pride, knowing that they represent the passion our community holds for this festival. Now, to my most dreaded part of the evening. As I pass along this title, I feel grateful to have finally fulfilled that little girl’s dream within me, and I hope that throughout my year, I have been able to instill that same dream into other little girls within our community.
Officially part of the legacy of past Mardi Gras Queens,
I am your 2023 Mardi Gras Queen, Aubrey Lemmon
50/50 Drawing
The 101st Annual Mardi Gras was successful in bringing a large crowd to Pinckneyville to celebrate. 50/50 ticket sales exceeded the Chamber’s expectations. Sales for 50/50 began at the beginning of September and continued throughout the festivities. The total tickets sales for 2023 was $15,278.
Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce
101st Mardi Gras 50/50 Winner Dustin Wright from Du Quoin took home over $5000. Ticket sales for the 102nd Annual Mardi Gras went on sale September 5th at these locations: Perry County Market Place, Stotlar Drug Co, The Flower Patch, First National Bank, McDaniel’s Furniture, and the Chamber office. The winning ticket will be drawn at the conclusion of the Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday, October 26th. The Chamber continues their hopes to exceed the sales of the previous year and help to draw people to Mardi Gras.
50/50 Tickets Rules and Regulations
Ticket sales will end at the conclusion of the Mardi Gras Parade on October 26, 2024. All ticket sellers have been authorized by the Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce. The winning ticket will be drawn in the presence of local law enforcement and Mardi Gras Officials. The winning ticket number will be announced at the end of the Mardi Gras Parade, and the winner does not need to be present to win. The official winning total will be verified by the appropriate financial institution and announced to the public by November 3, 2024. The winner must claim their prize with the Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce by November 30, 2024. In the event that the 50/50 prize for 2024 is not claimed, the winner’s portion will roll over and be the amount to begin the 50/50 sales for 2025. The Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to change these rules and regulations without notice.
T-Shirts for Sale
A limited number of this year’s “Wonders of the World” T-shirts, crewnecks, hoodies and koozies went on sale October 1, 2024. They are available at the following Pinckneyville businesses: Perry County Market Place, The Flower Patch, Stotlar Drug, L3 Boutique, and the Pinckneyville Chamber office.
2024 Mardi Gras Pageant
T he festivities for the Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce Mardi Gras start off with a queen pageant.
Six lovely ladies competed for the crown on Sunday, October 13, in the Pinckneyville Community High School’s Auxiliary gym. Contestants are awarded prize money. The pageant co-directors are Ashley Bathon & Betti Mucha.
Judging included a private interview and active wear and evening gown competitions. Interviews were conducted in the afternoon prior to the pageant.
Candidates from Pinckneyville, Jonesboro, Christopher, Nashville and West Frankfort were vying for the crown of 2024 Mardi Gras queen, the 98th queen in the long history of the pageant that stretches back to 1925.
The overall Pinckneyville Mardi Gras Queen pageant winner took home a $1,500 award, while the first runner-up received $500.
Prizes were awarded for Miss Photogenic, Spirit of Mardi Gras and Miss Mask-erade. Miss Mask-erade is a special category unique to the event.
Each candidate is asked to create a masquerade-style party mask and is expected to demonstrate creativity and the spirit for the event in decorating it.
Eliza Heisner of Pinckneyville was crowned the 2024 Mardi Gras Queen. Railan Clark of Christopher was the 1st runner up and second runner-up was Malayna Korb of Jonesboro.
Revlyn Willis of West Frankfort won the Miss Photogenic award, with Heidi Hug of Nashville winning Spirit of Mardi Gras.
Railan Clark of Christopher was also the Miss Mask-erade winner.
2024 Queen Candidates
Malayna Korb
Revlyn Willis
Heidi Hug
Cassandra Braun Railan Clark
Eliza Heisner
Queen’s Crown Bearer & Court Pages
Carter John Helvey
Carter John Helvey is the 7-yearold son of Gabe & Christy Helvey and the grandson of John & June McManus and Ron & Joann Helvey.
He has an 11-year-old brother Conner, a 4-year-old brother Cole, and a 2-year-old brother Coen.
Carter is a 1st grader at Community Consolidated School District #204.
His three favorite things are sports cars, monster trucks, and playing football and basketball.
Carter’s favorite color is blue. He wants to be a police officer when he grows up.
Killian Nicholas James Brand
Killian Nicholas James Brand is the 7-year-old son of Chris & Jacqueline Brand and grandson of Scott & Kathleen White and Jim & Carol Brand.
He has an 11-year-old brother, Tucker, and a 3-year-old sister, Mullaney.
Killian is a 1st grader at Community Consolidated School District #204.
His three favorite things are playing baseball, running cross country, and playing games with his brother and sister.
Killian’s favorite color is blue. He wants to be a fireman when he grows up.
Bly Evellyn Marks
Bly Evellyn Marks is the 6-year-old daughter of Shawn & Rachel Marks and the granddaughter of Gary & Barbara Brock and Terry & Diane Marks.
She has a 10-year-old sister, Roe Scarlett.
Bly is a 1st grader at DuQuoin Elementary, and her teacher is Ms. Stanhouse.
Her three favorite things are being “the queen” (Bly is the reigning Little Miss Perry County Fair), playing with her sister, and dinosaurs.
Bly’s favorite color is blue. She wants to be a paleontologist when she grows up, because “they study dinosaur bones and are so good at digging.
Bella Vine Bauza
Bella Vine Bauza is the 6-year-old daughter of Kasey Kellerman and Chris Bauza. She is the granddaughter of Darryl & Kim Kellerman and Joyce Bauza.
She has a 14-year-old brother, Bryar and a 4-year-old sister, Blythe.
Bella is a 1st grader at Nashville Middle School.
Her three favorite things are her farm animals, dance, and softball.
Bella’s favorite colors are pink and purple. She wants to be a teacher when she grows up.
2024 Queen Pageant
Past Mardi Gras Queens
1925 - Hulda Scroeder Singer
1926 - Frances Neising Bischof
1927 - Margaret Zahn Reith
1928 - Viola Cunningham Webster
1929 - Mildred Whittaker Williamson
1930 - Majorie Holmes Johnson
1931 - Pauline Reidelberger Thetford
1932 - Helen McCants
1933 - Betty Lynn Quillman Klinger
1934 - Wilma Bartle Berg
1935 - Virginia McElory Hundhausen
1936 - Dorris Keene Thimmig
1937 - Margaret Keene Robinson
1938 - Betty Roufs
1939 - Helen Warmack Mossey
1940 - Virginia Crawford Mason
1941 - Mary Jane Horner Wilson
1942 - Geraldine Hall Huggins
1943 - No Queen due to WWII
1944 - No Queen due to WWII
1945 - Betty Reel Wilkerson
1946 - Virginia Schilling Bigham
1947 - Pauline Hincke Cawvey
1948 - Mary Ann McElroy Gladson
1949 - Martha Kagle Keene
1950 - Jackie Lou Greer
1951 - Harriet Williams
1952 - Bonnie Sutliff Tolbert
1953 - Marguerite Beninati Smith
1954 - Mary Frances Thomas Rushing
1955 - Judy Roe Phillips
1956 - Jeanne Pillars McDonald
1957 - Betty Bender Mucha
1958 - Carole Dunn Zeidler
1959 - Sylvia Hammack Hagene
1960 - Mary Dean Bartle Johnson
1961 - Erin Roe Witherspoon
1962 - Jane Crawford Walker
1963 - Judy Opp Needham
1964 - Caralena “Connie” Birkner Ramsey
1965 - Susan Denton Wilson
1966 - Joan Mentel Epplin
1967 - Suzanne Wilson Engelhardt
1968 - Martha Kinzey Heape
1969 - Linda Erwin Biby
1970 - Cynthia Pyatt Coleman
1971 - Debra Baker Arett
1972 - Barbara Bender Hagene
1973 - Lisa Williams Bauza
1974 - Barbara Mann Carter
1975 - Tirzah Chapman Slechticky
1976 - Carla Tolbert
1977 - Rose Mann O’Brien
1978 - Donna Gorrel Thompson
1979 - Dana Kujawa Albertson
1980 - Denise Kujawa Gielow
1981 - Rhonda Hardin Shubert
1982 - Theresa Kujawa Kelly
1983 - Cindy Bruns Melvin
1984 - Heather Ramsey Lee
1985 - Betsy Mucha Cacioppo
1986 - Bianca Mohr Bottiaux
1987 - Amanda Ramsey Hepp
1988 - Tibretta Bigham Reiman
1989 - Jennifer Mohr Yeager
1990 - Natalie West Ellison
1991 - Rebecca Eisenhauer Anderson
1992 - Cynthia Hardin Heisner
1993 - Sara Shillinger Amos
1994 - Elizabeth Biby Cheek
1995 - Lori Stricker Mohr
1996 - Angel McCurdy Wildermuth
1997 - Jessica Mohr Hulting
1998 - Lana Bathon Fisher
1999 - Melise Smith Oakley
2000 - Danielle Rieckenberg Fritz
2001 - Brittany High Mosman
2002 - Jennifer Rose
2003 - Brittany Yates Waller
2004 - Sherri Smith Crabb
2005 - Tyra Zoeller Hill
2006 - Rachel Brock Marks
2007 - Kayla Barkau
2008 - Kate Winzenburger Ripley
2009 - Chelsea Reardon
2010 - Holly Weathers
2011 - Maegan Ferguson Keller
2012 - Jenna Harner Herbst
2013 - Kelsey Lober
2014 - Callie Priebe Opp
2015 - Samantha Steely
2016 - McKena Miller
2017 - Haley Johnston
2018- Lexie Tourville
2019 - Shelby G. McKown
2020 - Joelle Shelton
2021- Grace Pitts
2022- Aubrey Speers
2023- Aubrey Lemmon
2024 Mardi Gras Queen
2024 Mardi Gras Queen
Eliza Heisner
2023 Mardi Gras Queen Pageant Memories
Last
The 2023 Mardi Gras Candidates were, in no particular order, Faith Trail, Madison Braun, Addison Osman, Zoey Kellerman, Aubrey Lemmon, Hannah Stillman, Bekkah Schemonia and Eliza Heisner.
year Aubrey Lemmon of Tamaroa was crowned the 2023 Mardi Gras queen. Addison Osman of Anna was the 1st runner up. Madison Braun of Pinckneyville won the Miss Photogenic award and Miss Mask-erade, with Lemmon winning Spirit of Mardi Gras. Above: Retired 2022 Mardi Gras Queen Aubrey Speers is escorted down the aisle of the pageant.
Children’s Parade
On Friday, October 25, 2024, the children’s parade will kick off the 102nd Pinckneyville Mardi Gras weekend festivities. This parade will feature grade school and junior high students from District #50, C.C.S.D. #204 St. Bruno and Tamaroa dressed in their Halloween costumes and Head Start. The parade will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the grade school. Parents, Grandparents, family members and friends can line the streets of Mulberry, Mill, West South and Walnut to watch the parade. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons will be given to children in each grade. In case of inclement weather please contact your children’s school directly for information.
Business Trick or Treat
Friday evening, October 25, 2024, the Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce will host the Business Trick or Treat and Costume Contest. Trick or Treat will begin at 4:30 p.m. on W. Mulberry Street in front of the grade school.
The purpose of the event is to bring children and adults into the downtown area the evening before Mardi Gras. Attendance for the event in the past was well over 500 children!
All local businesses, community organizations and churches are invited to attend to connect with their community. Businesses must bring their own table and may offer treat and appropriate promotional materials. Set up will begin at 3:45 p.m. Streets will be closed to traffic at this time. The
Chamber suggest at least two people hand out treats for each business that plans to participate. Each business should also plan for approximately 600 children to attend this year’s event.
The Chamber will have a contest for the best decorated business table. Each business is encouraged to use their imagination and create a memorable display for the children to enjoy while trick-or-treating. The judging of tables will begin at 4:30 p.m. Last year Five Star was our winner!
Costume Contest judging will begin at 5:30 p.m. The age groups are 0-23 Months, 2-4 Years, 5-7 Years, 8-10 years, 11-13 Years. Groups can have adults (families welcome) but must include at least one child age 13 or under. Cash prizes will be awarded.
Chamber volunteers stand at their table during the 2023 Business Trick or Treat before the costume awards.
Business Trick or Treat
A peek at last year’s 5-7 Years contest winners: First Place - Salsa Dancers: Fiona Rice Sailor. Second Place - Mario and Luigi: Baker Smith and Griffin Smith. Third Place - Jewelry Box: Callynn Agnew.
Note: If you are a child attending the Business Trick or Treat, and you would like to be judged, please note that judging begins at 5:30 p.m. Listen to announcements for age groups. You may have to get out of the trick-or-treat line in order to be judge.
2024 Center Court Activities
Limelight DJ Live Music will be live at center court this year!
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. - Limelight DJ Live Music - Sponsored by the Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce
11:00 a.m. - Precious Pumpkin Contest Winner Announced - Sponsored by Delta Theta Tau.
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. “Poser’s” Photo Booth - Sponsored by First National Bank. 50/50 Tickets will be available at the Pinckneyville Fire Station
Vendor & Craft Fair
Above: Many people came together to celebrate the town’s annual Mardi Gras celebration last year. Below: Spanning most of Pinckneyville’s Walnut Street, Mardi Gras’ Vendor Fair starts just before the Stotlar Drug building and ends just past the Pinckneyville Public Library. The Vendor Fair’s food court is a popular destination for many of Mardi Gras’ attendees.
The Mardi Gras Vendor Fair will kick off at 9:00 am. The vendors will have their booths located on South Walnut and Mulberry Street. Around 150 vendors are expected to be at this year’s craft fair. Each vendor sells a unique variety of goods. The Vendor & Craft fair closes promptly at 3:00 p.m., in time for people to set up for the Mardi Gras parade.
Pinckneyville Shooting Sports during the Vendor Fair last year.
Other Activities
Locations Announced10:30 am. Money Scramble – ages 3-12.
- Sponsored by Murphy Wall State Bank. Located between Reese Tax & Tan Etc. in City Lot on Walnut Street across from City Hall.
12:30 p.m. Kids game with prizes. Ages 12 and under. - Sponsored by John Sheley. Located between Reese Tax & Tan Etc. in City Lot on Walnut Street across from City Hall.
11a.m.-3p.m. Balloon Lady will also be at City Lot
- Sponsored by Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce.
11:30 Whipped Pie Eating Contest at Taps and Vines Social House
Delta Theta Tau Sorority’s Precious Pumpkin
T he Precious Pumpkin contest (024mos) is an annual fundraiser held by the ladies from Delta Theta Tau sorority to raise monies to donate towards PCHS scholarships and give to local charities. Because of the kindness of our hometown banks, we are able to put out collection cans starting at the beginning of October. We also collect online donations via our website at https://deltathetatau.weebly. com. Everyone is encouraged to “vote” for their favorite “Pumpkin”.
Vivian Lambeth was the Precious Pumpkin winner for 2023. Collections will be accepted until October 26 online. We will announce our winner uptown at the main stage on the Saturday of Mardi Gras at 11 a.m.! The winner is invited to ride in the Mardi Gras parade that evening.
Vivian Lambeth won the competition and was given her award by Delta Theta Tau’s Carrie Gilliam and the 2023 Mardi Gras Queen Aubrey Lemmon last year.
Perry County Jail Museum Twilight Tour
October 16-31st experience a self-guided tour of Mardi Gras Past. Business windows around the square and Walnut Street will have past Mardi Gras items on this special tour. On October 31st at 6pm Haunted Tales from the Perry County Jail Storytelling will be featured on the Perry County Jail Museum Facebook page. Be sure to check it out!
Safety Tips for Motorists
• Leave early, plan for traffic congestion.
• Obey the posted speed limit.
•Watch for children who might dart into the street.
Pedestrian Tips
• Always cross at intersections. Look left, then right, then left again before proceeding.
• As a passenger, get in or out of a car on the curb side of the street.
• Make eye contact with drivers before you cross the street.
Parade Route
Road Closings During Mardi Gras
W
hen parking downtown and/or for the parade on Saturday, please pay special attention to NO PARKING signs all around Pinckneyville. No parking signs and/or barricades will be posted by the street department in the following (general) areas beginning on Friday evening: Post Office/Save-A-Lot areas (Randolph Street), flea market/car show area (Walnut, Mulberry and Douglas and the grade school parking lots), the parade staging areas (Front, Wilson, Penina, Murphy, Duckworth, Elizabeth, Ritter, Oak, Chester) and the parade route (Parker, Walnut, Mulberry, Mill). Please note that if your vehicle is regularly parked within one of the “no parking” areas, it will need to be moved for Mardi Gras events. Violators could be towed at the owner’s expense.
If you will be attending the Pinckneyville Mardi Gras parade, be sure to plan to arrive early due to traffic congestion in town. Keep in mind that road closures will be in effect beginning at 5:45 p.m. and traffic flow will be rather restricted inside the parade route and fairground area. AY Westbound Road.
Road Closures and Traffic Restrictions
5:45 p.m. Mill Street from Parker to Kaskaskia, as well as Chester Street will be closed (band staging area).
5:45 p.m. County Road (leading into the fairgrounds) will become a ONE-WAY Westbound Road.
6:00 p.m. Entire Parade Route closed to traffic (Parker, to Walnut, to Mulberry, to Mill)
7:00 p.m. Parade Begins with Fireworks.
If one needs to navigate within the parade area or to the fairgrounds, please plan ahead and/or consider alternate routes. For example, if you need to access the fairgrounds area, take 154 to Grant St. (across from Mann’s) and head south to County Road (which will be a one-way street beginning at 6:00 p.m.). Or, alternatively, travel westbound on 154, follow the round-a-bout and go west, and continue to Fairgrounds Road.
Above all else: SAFETY FIRST! If driving, be aware of pedestrians throughout town. Leave early and drive slowly! When walking to your parade viewing area, please be sure to take small children by the hand and try to use the sidewalks.
Mardi Gras Band Field Show
The Pinckneyville Music Association will host the Annual Mardi Gras Band
Mardi Gras Band Field Show
Above Left: The DHS Marching Band makes their Mardi Gras debut winning 2nd place in Class A. Above Right: As they hosted the event, the PCHS Marching Panthers performed in exhibition and were able to show off their skills. The competition was later moved into Thomas Gym at PCHS.
PINCKNEYVILLE – At the 2023 Mardi Gras Band Field Show Du Quoin High School Band picked up its first-ever field show trophy at Mardi Gras, finishing second in Class A with 623 points.
Wesclin High School was the Class A champion with 688 points and Okaw Valley took third with 613 points. Potosi, Missouri, won the Class
AA competition with 711 points followed by Salem (710) and Westview (706).
There were only two bands in the Class AAA competition, Mehlville and Marion, with Mehlville edging the Marching Wildcats 741 points to 680.
The PCHS drumline performed their cadences to signal the start of the competition’s awards in 2023.
The PJHS Marching Junior Panthers finished their season strong at the marching competition last year.
102nd Annual Mardi Gras Parade
Celebrating 102 Years of Pinckneyville Mardi Gras
The 102nd Annual Mardi Gras Parade will begin at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday October 26, 2024 at the intersection of West Parker and South Mill Streets.
Approximately 75 entries, including floats, marching bands and costumed individuals will be bringing the excitement of Illinois’ oldest night time parade this year.
All float/non-float entries that wish to be judged must be in positions by 5:30 p.m., and judging will begin at 6:00 p.m. sharp. Prior to the start of the parade, judges will award prizes and ribbons. Costumed categories will be judged near the beginning of the parade route at the intersection of Parker and Mill Streets prior to the parade at 6:30 p.m. Parade marshals will be in position at 5:15 p.m. to assist.
Spectators are encouraged to arrive no later than 5:30 p.m. as traffic is very congested around town and the parade route.
Restrooms will be available inside the fairgrounds and porta-potties and concessions will be available along the parade route.
For band marchers there will be porta-potties available at the intersection of Mill and Parker Streets.
Above: 2023 Mardi Gras Queen Aubrey Lemmon makes her way down the parade route last year.
Above Left: In 2023 No Bones About It took home 2nd place in the marching groups. Above Right: Grannies Gone Wild won 1st place in the marching groups division.
2024 Mardi Gras Parade Grand Marshals
This year’s 2024 102nd Mardi Gras Parade Grand Marshals are: (Above) The Pinckneyville Chamber Citizens of the Year Ted and Cathy Cunningham and Pinckneyville Chamber Business of the Year Designs Unlimited (Steve and Dawn Tanner).
Ham
Assisting in communications once again at this year’s Mardi Gras parade is a group of southern Illinois HAM radio operators that are affiliated with the Amateur Radio Emergency Services (A.R.E.S). ARES is part of the field organization of the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). Pinckneyville resident and radio operator, Bob Giacomo (N9VKO), has organized the communications support team that has taken part in parade communications for many years.
The group was first put in to keep gaps out of the parade, allowing it to flow more smoothly. Radio operators will monitor the entire parade route and contact any emergency services that might be needed during the parade.
This year eleven monitoring stations around and within the parade route will be staffed with operators. Two of the eleven monitoring stations focus on assistance in enhancing the safety of participating school bands. The operators are stationed near the bus parking area and also near the arch of the Pinckneyville fairgrounds, where band members must cross traffic to move to the staging area on Mill Street. In addition radio operators will also be embedding with the 50/50 ticket wagon to monitor its status and position in the parade route at all times.
Mardi Gras Parade Live Stream
Live Broadcast from the
Mardi Gras Parade Broadcast
The Weekly-Press is honored to bring the 11th year of the official parade broadcast, Mardi Gras Live on October 26 at 5:30 p.m. Thousands of viewers around the country and reaching as far as South America and Japan have viewed the parade live online courtesy of the WeeklyPress. Last year over 7,000 people tuned in live or watched the broadcast after the show. Those who are unable to attend the parade have an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the timehonored hometown festival.
Broadcast sponsor, Bill Kemme and former Pinckneyville Press editor Jessica Holder will host with a full agenda of guests and special events during the Pre-Show.
The show will be in person and online at 5:30 p.m. with Jackson Burke Creative managing the production and live entertainment from Limelight DJ and Karaoke at the Pinckneyville Fire Department. Come out at and dance and enjoy the Pre-Show activities followed by the parade a little after 7 p.m. The broadcast and pre-show will be hosted by the Pinckneyville Fire Department. Sparklight & Bill Kemme State Farm are the main sponsors of the event.
Live on the Pinckneyville Press Facebook Page
Live with Hosts Jessica & Bill!
Live Entertainment
Columbian Club
On October 25th, One Night Stand will play from 8pm-12am. The costume contest will be held on Friday night, judging will take place at 10pm. On October 26th, Murphy 500 will be playing from 9pm-1am. Cash only for drink purchases
Pinckneyville Moose
The Pinckneyville Moose Lodge #930 will be hosting their Annual Mardi Gras Party! Come out in your Halloween or Mardi Gras Costumes for some awesome drinks with amazing people! DJZ will be playing after the parade until closing time. Come in for drink specials and food!
Live Entertainment Eagles, Lucky Fades & More
They will have Mardi Gras entertainment as well. Check the schedule for times and listings.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
Above: Creatures from all walks of life participate in the
the parade route.
St. Bruno Catholic School 2nd graders show off their costumes.
Left: 2023 Mardi Gras Queen Aubrey Lemmon walks in the childrens’ parade. Below: Characters from all genres are represented at the parade!
Above Left: St. Bruno Catholic students walk
Above
Right:
The Pinckneyville Junior High Marching Panthers lead the parade.
parade.
Right: Transformers, dino riders and others were wellrepresented in the parade last year.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
Above: Students in Mrs. Travelstead’s 1st grade class at Pinckneyville Elementary School wave to the crowd.
Above Right: The Seven Dwarves in Mrs. Carter’s 5th grade class are ready to do some work. Left: There were plenty of unique costumes in the parade last year.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
On October 28th, members of the community start off their Mardi Gras celebration with a pancake breakfast at St. Paul Church. Members of the church work early in the morning to supply breakfast to the community.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
Above: Last year the race began as participants passed the starting line and were hit with splashes of color. The Color Run last year was created by Pinckneyville Gym and Fitness. Right: Chamber volunteer Hadlee Hicks stands with 2023 Mardi Gras Queen Aubrey Lemmon during the Pinckneyville Chamber’s Business Trick or Treat.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
Above: Glowing characters filled the Mardi Gras Parade and stop for a picture as they pass through the streets. Right: Stotlar Drug and Gifts won 2nd place in the business and union category and were also the business Grand Marshall in 2023.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
The 2023 Mardi Gras Queen Float parades down Walnut Street during last year’s Mardi Gras.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
Last year’s Business Trick or Treat Group Winners: First Place - Star Wars: Alissa Clark, Jordan Moore, Scarlett Crews and E’Lynn Crews. Second Place IT- Kindell Graff, Shyann Callihan and Ian Callihan. Third Place - Snow White and Seven Dwarfs: Aaron Arndt, Holly Bruno, Wilkey Winter, Luke Epplin, Logan McConachie, Elijah Johnson, Abel Boggess and Emerson Mohr.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
Last year’s Business Trick or Treat 8-10 Years: First Place - Tooth Fairy: Moxie Dinkelman. Second Place - Fruit Loops: Alaina Cook. Third Place - Scarecrow: Daisy Reagan.
Last year’s Business Trick or Treat 2-4 years: First Place - Tractor: Cooper Mitchell. Second Place - Circus/Lion Ring Master: Pharrah Bathon. Third Place - Bell: Jaylia Johnston.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
The 101st Mardi Gras Parade was held on October 28. Winners of the parade categories were: Youth Group, 1st place St. Bruno School; 2nd place PJHS Student Council. Miscellaneous, 1st place Thomas, Templeton, Tabing. Farm/Farm Related, 1st place Ellie and Debbie Pick; 2nd place IL. Rural Heritage Museum; 3rd place Syden Stricker Nobbe. Business and Union, 1st place Murphy Wall State Bank; 2nd place Stotlar Drug; 3rd place Empire Earth. Outdoor and Recreational, 1st place Friends in Low Places. Marching Groups, 1st place Grannies Gone Wild; 2nd place No Bones About It. Overall Parade Awards, 1st place Murphy Wall State Bank; 2nd place was a tie for Friends In Low Places and Thomas, Templeton and Tabing; 3rd place The Marching Grannies.
Above: Glowritaville, Friends In Low Places, floats through the parade.
Right: St. Bruno Catholic School float won 1st place in the youth group category.
Empire Earth and Concrete float won 3rd place in the business and union category.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
Last year’s Business Trick or Treat 11-13 Years: First Place - Prisoner: Lilytha Hackworth. Second Place - Sushi: Brennan Forbes.
Third Place: Tired Mom: Jozilynn Stork.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
during
Above Left: Murphy Wall State Bank float took home 1st place in the business and union division. Above Center: Colonel Pinckney and his Footmen come out for another Mardi Gras Celebration during this year’s Pinckneyville Chamber Mardi Gras Parade. Above Right: Jessica Holder and
Dale host this year’s Mardi Gras Parade during the live broadcast. This is the Weekly-Press 10th year live streaming the parade around the world. Cheryl Bigham, owner of Place Real Estate let the Weekly-Press use her office on Walnut Street so the show could go on after a fire in December 2022 took down the Pinckneyville Press office.
Above Left: Manor at Mason Woods passes out treats
this year’s Mardi Gras Parade. Above Right: Murphy Wall State Bank sea creatures walk the parade passing out goodies. Right: Miss Perry County Fair Queens, Gracie Martin, Tennyson Logan and Raylee Carroll smile as they pass by during the parade.
Kate
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
After making the tough call to move their parade marching competition indoors following an unexpectedly rainy Mardi Gras, the PCHS Marching Panthers perform on the floor of Thomas Gym.
Du
Middle School’s Marching
also attended the indoor marching competition on last Saturday. Their performance earned DMS
place award for junior high marching band.
Mardi
Oct.
Submitted
Quoin
Band
a 1st
Last year’s Business Trick or Treat 0-23 months: First Place - Circus Lion: Henry Evet and Kaitlyn Evet (Mom). Second Place - Duck hunter/ blind: Loudyn Martin. Third Place - Top Gun Maverick: Ray Sronce.
Nancy Hester and Ciara Wyatt at a past Mardi Gras.
Gras this year falls on her birthday
26th.
by Genevieve Hester.
102 Years of Mardi Gras Memories
Above: Du Quoin High School performed “6 Seconds to Impact”, on Saturday, October 28 at PCHS during the field competition. Left: The DHS drum majors accept their band’s 2nd place in Class A award. Below: The PCHS Saxophone Quartet started Pinckneyville’s Mardi Gras field show with their rendition of the National Anthem.
102nd Annual
Live Broadcast from the Powered
by
Thank You From the Chamber
The Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a sincere Thank You to the following 2024 Pinckneyville Mardi Gras Sponsors for your continued support in making this annual event possible.
The Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce would also like to thank the Mayor and Commissioners for all of their support during the planning stages of Mardi Gras. We would also like to thank the Police Department and Fire Department for their help. Also, a huge thank you to our Mardi Gras planning committees. Without all of your extra effort and teamwork this event would not be possible.
Platinum Level
Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce
Stotlar Drug Company
State Farm Insurance
- Bill Kemme
SI Towing and Recovery
Pyatt Funeral Home
Perry County Market Place
Pinckneyville Hospital
Murphy-Wall State Bank & Trust
Grecian Steak House
Freedom Street Partners
First National Bank
City of Pinckneyville
Orsted Geranium Solar
Gold Level
Consolidated Grain & Barge
Napa Auto Parts
The Trophy Room
Country Financial Greg Thompson
Family Dental Center
Paulette’s Food Service
Pinckneyville Nursing & Rehabilitation
Loyd Hauling Silkworm
Silver Level
Barr Trucking, Inc. & Barr Specialized, Inc.
Knight Hawk Coal Oxbow Inn
Moose Lodge
Pinckneyville McDonald’s
Rend Lake College
Columbian Club
Kim Kellerman Perry
County Circuit Clerk
Weekly-Press
Pinckneyville Eagles
Brand Electric
Nots Logistics
Belle of the Ball
Meier Chevrolet
