“There’s not too many walking groups on the coast, everybody rides floats, but there’s nothing like seeing a smile on a kids face, or a lady’s face, or someone in a wheelchair when you hand them a flower.” Says Grant Cooley, member since 2004. “Their whole face brightens up. It’s a great feeling, and the cool thing is we can walk out in to the crowd sometimes. That one little personal touch is all it takes.”
This krewe is a must see in any parade they attend, bringing joy and smiles of all shapes and sizes to peoples of all kinds. For many though, the opportunity to bring this joy is a fortunate byproduct of the brothership they receive from the club itself.
“It’s a brotherhood, and it’s often imitated but never replicated.” Says Jeff Gearheart, member since 2014. “It’s the greatest idea and the best thing going on in Mardi Gras!”
“It’s a great group of guys, who really stand by your side.” Says Marcus Thomas, member of eight years. “We have a lot of fun at Mardi Gras, and Rusty David’s been a great mentor and asset to us.”
Keep an eye on the local parade routes for these dapper gentlemen, dressed up to the nines and ready to hand out flowers. The Ole Biloxi Marching Club is also on the lookout for eager new members and banner girls, so if you think you’ve got what it takes just ask a current member! If you do, you will find yourself in the company of a splendid and excellent krewe that has become synonymous with the South Mississippi Mardi Gras celebration. From all of us here at Coast Observer, and fans all around the coast, we wish the Ole Biloxi Marching Club a happy 50 years, and we look forward to 50 more!
1 comment
Comments are closed.