Hello alumni,

First, Scott and I would like to thank all of you who filled out and submitted your information to help us determine the demand for another Mardi Gras parade next year. Though the total number of responses was less than we had received for the past two Mardi Gras, we appreciate everyone's submissions. We have a few new alumni that indicated that they want to do the project. We've also had many veteran project alumni members suggesting that they want a change after two Mardi Gras parades in a row. Considering these points, a different venue should be looked at to satisfy more interest from everyone.

We won't give up on Mardi Gras, as it is a tremendously fun project, but not now. Maybe after a new unique project or two have been experienced. It's best to target a performance opportunity in 2025 or possibly even in 2026. Perhaps one more like the Macy's project in 2014.

Soon, we hope to be conversing with the Scouts' leadership to bounce an exploration into another joint project similar to the 2014 Macy's to help bring in new alumni along with recent age-outs into the fraternity of MSARP alumni. For this to happen, we need everyone to understand that it will not happen next year in 2024. Planning a more extensive project involving both organizations will take time to develop and prepare if this opportunity is a go. We have heard from a few excited alumni willing to help with this potential new opportunity, so stay connected for more information in next month's edition of the Fleur-de-lis. To be directly connected to this story, make sure you are subscribed to our newsletter.

You'll never walk alone,
~ Scott Pearson