Revised March 2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS
KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS MISSION STATEMENT……………………………………….2
KREWE MISSION…………………………………………………………………………………2
COMMUNITY AND FAMILY………………………………………………………………………2
ABOUT THE KREWE…………………………………………………………………………….2
KREWE CHARTER MEMBERS…………………………………………………………………3
THE HISTORY OF MARDI GRAS……………………………………………………………..4
MEANING OF MARDI GRAS COLORS…………………………………………………………5
HISTORY OF THE KING CAKE…………………………………………………………………5
MEMBERSHIP……………………………………………………………………………………6
MEMBER BENEFITS……………………………………………………………………………..6
MEMBER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES…………………………………………………6
RULES OF CONDUCT………………………………………………………………………………7
REMOVAL FROM MEMBERSHIP…………………………………………………………………7
RIDING ON FLOATS………………………………………………………………………………..7
THROWS……………………………………………………………………………………………..8
DRESS CODE……………………………………………………………………………………..8
NAME TAGS………………………………………………………………………………………8
BOARD OF DIRECTORS………………………………………………………………………..9
AMBASSADORS…………………………………………………………………………………..9
COMMITTEES…………………………………………………………………………………10-13
MARDI GRAS BALL………………………………………………………………………………13
SELECTION OF THEME………………………………………………………………………..13
SELECTION OF KING, QUEEN & ROYAL COURT………………………………………….14
KING & QUEEN BENEVOLENCE/COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT……………………14
PRIOR KINGS AND QUEENS………………………………………………………………….14
FUTURE KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS MARDI GRAS MAIN PARADE DATES…………..16
MARDI GRAS PARADE WEEK…………………………………………………………………16
OTHER EVENTS…………………………………………………………………………………16
KoSA ANNUAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS……………………………………………………. 17
THE KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS MISSION STATEMENT
KREWE MISSION
We bring together dedicated volunteers and community growth minded sponsors to promote Historic St
Andrews, Panama City and the surrounding area by hosting events that attract visitors and commerce
to enrich our community businesses and benefit all citizens.
COMMUNITY AND FAMILY
The Krewe of St. Andrews (KoSA) focuses on community and family. The St. Andrews Mardi Gras is
intended to promote a positive image of the area, encourage investment, and continued improvement
of Historic St. Andrews. This dedication is accomplished through many family-oriented activities
sponsored by KoSA as well as contributions made by KoSA to local charities and scholarships. KoSA
is committed to planning events that benefit St. Andrews business owners, restaurants and vendors,
as well as patrons of the events.
ABOUT THE KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS
The Krewe of St. Andrews is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1997. The idea for the Krewe arose
when Bay Point’s Krewe of Dominique Youx approached the community of St. Andrews with the idea of
relocating their parade to St. Andrews. The same year, St. Andrews citizens formed their own Krewe,
now proudly known as the Krewe of St. Andrews.
In 2013, the Krewe of St. Andrews completed construction of the “Den” located at 1561½ Chandlee
Avenue, Panama City, FL. The original Den included a steel frame building used for float storage
and decorating, a meeting room with bar for hosting social events, dinners and meetings and a
second floor with office, meeting and storage space. In 2018, the Den was destroyed by Hurricane
Michael and the floats were all damaged. The Krewe immediately rebuilt the Den bigger and better,
enlarging both the meeting/social space and upstairs storage areas. In March of 2019, KoSA held the
first quarter membership meeting in the new space and shortly thereafter, built a second float barn
adjacent to the Den.
KREWE of ST. ANDREWS
Charter Members
October 1997 – February 1998
Sandy Hinderer Tina Hudson
Lea Kaiser Becky Anderson Mott
Virginia Matthews Jerry Ziewitz
Robbie Fehrenbach Kathryn Ziewitz
Ellen Mapelsden Terri Lillard
Niki Bridges Bill Lillard
Terry Rubin James McVeigh
Eric Feldman Ken McKenize
Sandra Mcquagge Robert Wright
Brenda Harrison Dayton Vause
Tom Bowdoin Bill Tant
Doris Bowdoin Scott Landreau
Herb Hinson John E. Pilcher
Leesa Coleman Jerry Pilcher
Ginger Littleton Glynda Whitford
A.C. Littleton, Jr. Scott Wilson
Jim Pigneri Francis Heitkamp
Doris Pigneri Robin Atamian
Kathryn Miller Tony Lideeche
John Littleton Connie Head
Bobbie Littleton Lee Head
Dave Wise Daniel Knight
Candy Wise Avery Adcock Pam Logston Alice Guay
Kim Miller Gayle Littleton
Vivian Patterson Amy Littleton
Anita Weldon Gina Littleton
Arthur Smith A.C. Littleton, Sr.
MaryLee Lincoln Alma Littleton
Bill Hudson Stefan “Euromobiles”
THE HISTORY OF MARDI GRAS
The history of Mardi Gras began long before Europeans set foot in the New World. In mid-February,
the ancient Romans celebrated the Lupercalia, a circus-like festival not entirely unlike the Mardi
Gras we are familiar with today. When Rome embraced Christianity, the early Church fathers decided
it was better to incorporate certain aspects of pagan rituals into the new faith rather than
attempt to abolish them all together. Carnival became a period of abandon and merriment that
preceded the penance of Lent, thus giving a Christian interpretation to the ancient custom.
Many historians believe that the first American Mardi Gras took place on March 3, 1699, when the
French explorers Iberville and Bienville landed in what is now Louisiana, just south of the
holiday’s future epicenter, New Orleans. They held a small celebration and dubbed the spot Point
du Mardi Gras. In the decades that followed, New Orleans and other French settlements began marking
the holiday with street parties, masked balls and lavish dinners. When the Spanish took control of
New Orleans, however, they abolished these rowdy rituals and the bans remained in force until
Louisiana became a U.S. state in 1812.
On Mardi Gras in 1827, a group of students donned colorful costumes and danced through the streets
of New Orleans, emulating the revelry they’d observed while visiting Paris. Ten years later, the
first recorded New Orleans Mardi Gras parade took place, a tradition that continues to this day.
In 1857, a secret society of New Orleans businessmen called the Mistick Krewe of Comus organized a
torch-lit Mardi Gras procession with marching bands and rolling floats, setting the tone for future
public celebrations in the city. Since then, krewes have remained a fixture of the Carnival scene
throughout Louisiana. Other lasting customs include throwing beads and other trinkets, wearing
masks, decorating floats and eating King Cake.
In 1872 Grand Duke Alexis Romanoff of Russia visited New Orleans. This year the Krewe of Rex made
its debut and began the tradition of the “King of Carnival.” Rex also introduced purple, gold and
green as the official colors of Mardi Gras. Rex was the first Krewe to hold an organized daytime
parade and introduced “If Ever I Cease to Love” as the Mardi Gras anthem.
Louisiana is the only state in which Mardi Gras is a legal holiday. However, elaborate carnival
festivities draw crowds in other parts of the United States during Mardi Gras season as well,
including Alabama, Mississippi and Florida. Each region has its own events and traditions.
(Sources: history.com and eastjeffersonparish.com)
MEANING OF THE MARDI GRAS COLORS
The official Mardi Gras colors are purple, green and gold. The King of Carnival, Rex, chose these
colors in 1872. He chose these colors to stand for the following:
PURPLE is for JUSTICE
GREEN is for FAITH GOLD is for POWER
HISTORY OF THE KING CAKE
The King Cake tradition came to New Orleans with the French settlers around 1870, continuing a
custom dating back to twelfth century France. Similar cakes were used then to celebrate the coming
of the three wise men, calling it the feast of the Epiphany, Twelfth Night, or King’s Day.
In honor of the three kings, the traditional King Cake is made from twisted strands of cinnamon
dough, topped with icing and sprinkled with purple, green and gold colored sugar. The shape of a
King Cake symbolizes the unity of faiths.
Originally objects such as coins, beans, pecans and peas were hidden inside of every King Cake.
Wealthy Louisiana plantation owners in the later 1880’s would sometimes put a precious stone or
jewel in their King Cakes. In the mid-1900’s, a small plastic baby became the symbol of this Holy
Day and was placed inside of each King Cake.
The New Orleans tradition is that each person takes a piece of cake with all in anticipation of who
will find the plastic baby inside. The recipient of the plastic baby is said to be rewarded with
good luck and “crowned” King or Queen for the day. That person is also responsible for hosting the
following year’s party and supplying the King Cake.
The Krewe of St. Andrews honors this tradition at our annual Marriage to the Sea event when one
member is chosen to receive the baby in their King Cake, thus becoming the “Baby Mama” or “Baby
Daddy” for the year. To be chosen “Baby Mama” or “Baby Daddy” is an honor; the recipient hosts the
Marriage to the Sea event the following year and passes the baby on to another honoree.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership is open to all persons over twenty-one (21) years of age. Prospective members submit an
application (available for download from the KoSA website standrewsmardigras.com) to the Board of
Directors for a majority vote. All new members are sponsored by an active member. The sponsor is
responsible for providing information and guidance to the new member, as well as personal
invitations and reminders of upcoming events. An active member is one in good standing, having paid
100% of the dues and/or assessments as provided under the Krewe’s bylaws and having completed New
Member Orientation. Only members in good standing with all dues and assessments fully paid can hold
office, vote in any election or on any issue before the membership, participate in parades, attend
social activities, and attend the Royal Ball. Members have access to the members-only KoSA Facebook
page and members-only section of the KoSA website for information, photos and announcements.
KoSA MEMBER BENEFITS
Members in good standing as provided and defined by the Krewe’s bylaws are entitled to one (1)
ticket to the annual Royal Ball and the opportunity to ride on a float in the Krewe’s main parade
provided space is available. Members in good standing as provided and defined by the Krewe’s bylaws
are eligible to vote in the elections for Board of Directors, King, Queen and Royal Court, and
theme selection. The Board of Directors may impose a membership cap; if a cap is imposed when
active membership limits are reached, the names of any new applicants shall be placed on a waiting
list as an associate member. An associate member pays lower dues and is not entitled to vote, hold
office or ride on a float (but may serve as a wheel-walker).
KoSA MEMBER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties of members shall be to cooperate with the Board of Directors and its Officers in
preserving the order and dignity of meetings, the Royal Ball and all Krewe activities, and shall
comply with plans presented by the Committees.
Members shall pay all assessed dues, fees or penalties in full and on time. Other duties and
responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:
● Attendance at quarterly meetings. All members are required to attend at least one meeting per
year.
● Contribute knowledge, time, and/or financial resources to Krewe activities and functions.
● Support Board decisions, even when in disagreement with majority decisions.
● Commit only as much time or financial support above and beyond dues as you can realistically
afford.
● All members are HIGHLY encouraged to work on at least one Committee and invest at least 8 hours
of time per year.
● If riding a float, contribute time either working on the float or provide other support on float
work days.
● Members whose dues are more than 90 days past due are subject to dismissal or penalties/fees.
RULES OF CONDUCT
Members shall dress and present themselves in a manner to maintain and upgrade KoSA’s image with
its other members as well as the general public.
Members should refrain from excessive use of alcohol and must not use illegal substances. Members
must follow all Den rules and requirements as defined.
No member shall receive or accept for personal gain any money, goods, services, gifts or any other
property from any vendor, supplier, customer, employee, contractor, donor, sponsor or other person
affected by or affiliated with KoSA.
When communicating publicly on matters that involve KoSA business, members must not presume to
speak for KoSA on any topic unless they are certain that the views they express are those of KoSA
and that it is KoSA’s desire that such views be publicly disseminated.
When dealing with anyone outside KoSA, including public officials, members must take care not to
compromise the integrity or damage the reputation of either KoSA or any outside individual,
business, or government body.
REMOVAL FROM MEMBERSHIP
Any active, associate or honorary member may be removed from membership for any of the following:
a. Failure to pay dues. Any member who fails to pay dues within 90 days of the invoice due date
are subject to automatic dismissal.
b. Engaging in any action or behavior that would reflect dishonor and disgrace on KoSA.
c. Disqualification for any reason from participating in any KoSA-sponsored event, including
disqualification for use of drugs or excessive consumption of alcohol.
d. Repeated misconduct or failure to adhere to the rules of conduct will be subject to review by
the Board and may be cause for removal from membership.
e. Not attending at least ONE regular general membership meeting in a year.
RIDING ON FLOATS
The Krewe owns its floats and decorates each with a different theme. To ride on a float, each Krewe
member must be in good standing as defined in the bylaws. New members are offered rides on floats
as space is available. Once float capacity is reached, members may serve as wheel walkers for the
parade. Members who are wheel walkers because riding space is full will be offered a riding
position based on seniority once space becomes available. Members assigned to a float are expected
to actively participate in the preparation of the floats for parades and to provide their own beads
and approved “throws” for the parade. Members may request to ride a specific float and will be
assigned to the float by the Float Coordinator, as selected by the Board of Directors, with
agreement of the float captain based on seniority and available space.
THROWS
Each member is responsible for the purchase of their own beads and throws for parades. A good
quantity estimate is 2 cases per person per parade. Beads can be purchased in a variety of styles
and at various price points.
Throws can be purchased through the Merchandise committee who coordinates a bulk order for members
each year. Members may also purchase beads and throws from local stores or either in person or
online from Mardi Gras shops in Daphne, AL, Mobile, AL, Gulfport, MS, Biloxi, MS, and New Orleans,
LA. Riders should check with their float captain regarding throws and beads.
DRESS CODE
Dress at Krewe events is most often casual, often Mardi Gras attire, except at themed events. At
the Drawdown/Halloween party, costumes are the norm (there is a costume contest). At the Mardi Gras
Royal Ball, men are required to wear a tuxedo or formal military uniform and women are required to
wear long, floor-length formal gowns. Gowns MUST NOT be ankle length or shorter than floor length.
The following DO NOT meet the Royal Ball dress code: jumpsuits, dresses that are tea length or
ankle length, dresses with high-low hemlines, dresses with pants or leggings under sheer overlayers
(even if the sheer overlayer is floor length) or any other gown not touching the tops of the shoes.
Anyone not meeting the dress code for the Royal Ball will not be permitted entrance to the Ball
unless a specific exception has been made and approved by the Board.
NAME TAGS
All Krewe members will receive a name tag which is to be worn at social events and meetings.
Failure to wear the Krewe name tag at a social event or meeting will result in a $1.00 fine.
Members of the Membership committee are responsible for enforcing this rule and collecting any
fines. If lost, replacement name tags can be ordered for a nominal fee. Members needing a
replacement name tag should contact the Membership Committee Chairpersons or committee member or a
member of the Board.
EXCEPTIONS/EXCLUSIONS
● Name tags do not need to be worn at the annual Royal Ball.
● Past Kings and Queens and the current reigning King, Queen and Royal Court are excluded from
paying the $1.00 fine for not wearing a name tag.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board manages the overall affairs of KoSA by carrying out and enforcing established bylaws and
procedures and by establishing new procedures. Board members are elected by the general membership
for two-year terms. To be eligible to run for a Board position, members must have been members in
good standing, as defined by the bylaws, for at least one year. The President and President-Elect
positions are expressly elected by the general membership, while the secretary and treasurer’s
positions are elected from within the Board members by the Board. The KoSA Board is composed of 7
individuals with voting eligibility: President (who only votes in the case of a tie),
President-Elect, Secretary, Treasurer, and three Board members at-large. The most recent President
remains on the Board for one term as Past-President in a non-voting position. The Sergeant-at-Arms
is appointed by the Board each year and is a non-voting position.
AMBASSADORS
In 2011, the Board of Directors approved an action to establish a special inter-Krewe outreach
group, the Ambassadors. An Ambassador is a senior Krewe member that serves as an official KoSA
representative. They serve to acquaint the community and other organizations with our Krewe.
Ambassadors also serve as escorts to members of visiting Krewes at KoSA events and as KoSA
representatives at other Krewe events to which KoSA is invited. They further serve KoSA members by
disseminating information on other Krewe events and facilitating participation. The Ambassadors
organize and host other Krewes at the annual 12ᵗʰ Night Celebration and Blessing of the Floats
event at the KoSA Event Center.
Ambassador is an outreach and service position. It requires commitment of time and personal
financial expense.
The Ambassador group consists of up to 36 members. Each member serves a three (3) year term.
Eligibility requires one to be a KoSA member in good standing as defined by the bylaws for a
minimum of two (2) years and have served as a major committee chairperson, a Board of Directors
member, a member of a Royal Court, or past King or Queen. A prospective Ambassador will fill out an
application for review and consideration and must be approved by the Board of Directors. Each
Ambassador is required to attend one out-of-town event each year of their term.
COMMITTEES
The Krewe of St. Andrews has established numerous major committees and sub-committees that perform
various duties to achieve goals relative to their purpose and the work of the Krewe. All members
are asked to join and actively participate in at least one Committee. All committees who use money
from or raise money for KoSA answer to the Board and should obtain Board approval before any
commitment of or expenditures of KoSA funds and fundraising efforts.
MEMBERSHIP: The Membership Committee provides new member orientation/training,
develops/updates/distributes the Membership handbook, may organize membership drives, orders name
tags, and provides names of new members to committee chairs for inclusion on committees. Membership
Chair will submit all new member’s names to the Webmaster for e-blasts and newsletters if this task
is not performed by the Treasurer/Board. The committee also manages KoSA Cares which notifies
members of surgery, illness and death of a member of the KoSA family (only by permission of the
patient or family member as situations arise).
FINANCE COMMITTEE: These members, as selected by the Board of Directors, will be responsible for
the financial stability of KoSA. Duties of the finance committee include paying invoices submitted
with approval of the Board of Directors, paying monthly bills, accounting for all recording of
deposits and debits, monthly reconciliation of all financial accounts, and other duties as needed
regarding money raised, collected or spent on behalf of the organization. One member of this
committee will be selected as Treasurer Emeritus. This person will be responsible for holding major
credit cards, signing responsibility for all checks and other such duties needed for financial
solvency. This person shall also be responsible for the presentation of the organization finance
report at each monthly board meeting.
FUNDRAISING: KoSA raises money throughout the year to enable the Krewe to function and to benefit
the community through scholarships and donations to various community charities such as Boys and
Girls Club, Girls, Inc., and the Margaret K. Lewis School. Committees who raise funds include:
Golf Tournament- Annually, a golf tournament consisting of 4-member teams is held at an area golf
course. Funds raised benefit scholarships for local students at local colleges and Haney Technical
College and KoSA’s Den fund. Members of this committee develop marketing materials, solicit
tournament sponsors, work with the golf course on dates and scheduling, arrange food and beverage
services and work on the day of the event with registration, event coordination, silent auctions
and drawings.
DrawDown- In October, a costumed (optional but encouraged) fundraising event is held close to
Halloween. Numbered event tickets are sold in advance and additional tickets are sold at the event
to encourage participation beyond the limited number of event tickets sold (usually 300). Ticket
holders attend the event where, in addition to food, beverages, music and merriment, ticket numbers
are drawn until only one remains and is declared the money winner.
Ball Program- Advertisement space in the Royal Ball Program is sold to businesses and individuals.
The committee solicits these ads and coordinates the printing of the ball program.
Merchandise- Various KoSA products such as tshirts, trading pins, medallion beads, hats and posters
are ordered and made available for sale at KoSA events, socials and at the Mardi Gras Festival. The
Merchandise committee coordinates the purchase of throw beads for Krewe members each year. Members
place their order and orders are shipped in bulk to the Den for distribution prior to parade
season. After the theme for the upcoming Mardi Gras season is chosen by the general membership, the
committee works with the King and Queen-Elect and a graphic artist to develop a logo design which,
once approved by the Board, will be used on all merchandise for the year.
SCHOLARSHIP- The Scholarship committee works with local colleges to establish scholarships and
endowments. KoSA currently funds an endowment at Gulf Coast State College and offers several
scholarships for students wishing to attend Haney Technical College, FSU Panama City, Gulf Coast
State College and Troy State Panama City.
Scholarships are awarded two times a year to applicants who are 23 years old or older and who are
planning to pursue post-high school education at a local institute of higher learning. The
application form is listed on the KoSA website (standrewsmardigras.com) with deadlines on October
15 and July 15. Applications are reviewed by the committee and top applicants are interviewed to
determine award recipients. The total amount awarded with each round of scholarships is determined
by the amount raised through fundraising events. Committee members may also choose to assist in the
selection of the recipient of the KoSA endowed scholarship at Gulf Coast State College.
PUBLIC RELATIONS- This committee works closely with local media to promote special events held by
KoSA, including publicity locally and in surrounding counties and states for the annual Mardi Gras
Festival. The committee handles press releases relating to KoSA’s community work.
SOCIAL- The Social committee establishes dates for many major KoSA social events. The committee
plans and organizes the location, food, music, and decorations for these events then handles the
setup and decoration of the event venue. These events include the Fat Tuesday party in
February/March, the Luau in June/July, the Coronation/Going Out celebration in August (coordinated
with both incoming and outgoing Queens), and the Christmas party in December. The committee may
assist with the Marriage to the Sea party and the after-parade party following KoSA’s main Mardi
Gras parade and may plan and organize happy hour socials and $20 Balls
throughout the year. In the event there is no member acting as the Chair of the Social Committee,
the Board of Directors reserves the right to utilize volunteer members who have signed up for this
committee to assist, where needed, in upcoming organization events.
ROYAL BALL- The Royal Ball committee, working with the King and Queen, plans and organizes the
annual Royal Ball. The committee creates decorations (or coordinates some decorations with an
outside vendor) to decorate the entrance to ballroom and the check-in table at the entry, handles
RSVP’s and attendee check-in at the Ball, and organizes Ball the seating chart. The committee
prepares the Tableau script with the King and Queen and may assist in obtaining the Master/Mistress
of Ceremonies and Color Guard.
FLOAT/TRAILER MANAGER- A person selected annually by the President to act as oversight of float
safety and road-worthiness of floats. This person works with the current President and Float
Captain to arrange for repairs and/or maintenance of the floats.
DEN BUILDING MANAGER-This is a person selected by the current President tasked with maintaining the
building and property grounds. The Den Building Manager is responsible for making repairs, or
recommendations of vendors that can complete the task for issues that may arise within the
buildings or on KoSA grounds. The Den Building Manager will work with the current President to
estimate costs for any identified problem to ensure it is budgeted correctly. The Den Manager will
submit invoices for repairs or materials needed for repairs. These funds will be paid by the
Finance Committee upon Board Approval.
INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER-This person handles all internal communications, most of
which are disseminated via email such as the twice-weekly eblasts. Information communicated
includes notice of social events, quarterly meetings, committee meetings, as well as other
information as approved by the Board. A monthly newsletter, edited and published by a different
member volunteer, is also distributed via email and contains committee information, news of
upcoming events and photos of recent events, welcomes new members and announces member birthdays
and anniversaries. Business card-size ad space is sold to businesses at a cost of $75 per year.
This committee works closely with the Public Relations committee during the Mardi Gras media blitz.
The KoSA website, standrewsmardigras.com, is continually updated to keep members and the community
informed of upcoming and current activities. The password for the members-only section of the
website changes periodically. Official Krewe internal communication avenues (excluding paid
newsletter ads) are not to be used to solicit members or advertise personal businesses.
PHOTOGRAPHY/HISTORIAN- This person is responsible for attending various Krewe socials, parades,
fundraisers, meetings, and other events and taking photographs and/or videos of the function.
Photographs taken by committee members, or provided by other members who attended the event, will
be screened to ensure the photos are in good taste and then will be organized, uploaded to a shared
photo website, and archived for future use.
PARADE COMMITTEES- The Main Parade, Kids’ Parade and Pet Parade are three (3) separate committees
that are responsible for the coordination and logistics of all Krewe of St. Andrews’ parades. Their
responsibilities include: establishing parade routes, and obtaining the necessary number/types of
barricades for the parade route. Parade committee members also communicate with all participating
Krewes and parade entrants regarding parade entry guidelines and forms. They process submitted
parade applications as well as enforce safety guidelines and rules of conduct.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT- KoSA supports membership in the Bay County Chamber of Commerce with a Krewe
liaison attending meetings. They also sponsor and assist in the organization of the annual St.
Andrews Easter Egg Hunt and organize KoSA participation in the annual Blessing of the Fleet/Burning
of the Socks event as well as other community events that may arise.
DEN RENTAL MANAGER- This person, approved by the Board of Directors has responsibility for
overseeing the rental of the Den (KOSA Event Center) to KoSA members and the general public for
private events, including showing the Den venue, obtaining signed contracts and deposits/payments,
organizing individuals to tend bar if rentals include the bar, and assisting in event set-up as
required. The Den Rental Manager also has responsibility for overseeing the rental of the
barricades. These barricades, along with the barricade transport trailer are available for
commercial rental for providing additional Den support revenue.
What is a Board Liaison?
The Board of Directors assigns a Board member to serve as an active member of a committee. That
board member provides updates and reports to the Board on issues relating to the committee and
informs the committee, as needed, regarding actions of the Board or other committees.
MARDI GRAS ROYAL BALL
The premier event of the year is the annual Mardi Gras Royal Ball when the King, Queen, and Royal
Court reign. This is a formal event; members and guests wear formal attire (black tie (tuxedo) or
formal military uniform for men and floor-length dresses for women), enjoy a meal and dance to live
music. The highlight of the Ball is the Tableau presentation of the King, Queen, and Royal Court.
NOTE: Ball gowns MUST NOT be ankle length or shorter than floor length. The following DO NOT meet
the Royal Ball dress code: jumpsuits, dresses that are tea length or ankle length, dresses with
high-low hemlines, dresses with pants or leggings under sheer overlayers (even if the sheer
overlayer is floor length) or any other gown not touching the tops of the shoes. Anyone not meeting
the dress code for the Royal Ball will not be permitted entrance to the Ball unless a specific
exception has been made and approved by the Board.
Several months prior to the Mardi Gras Royal Ball, a Coronation celebration is held to crown the
King, Queen, and Royal Court. Dinner and music are provided. This event also honors the King,
Queen and Royal Court who are out-going. Attire for the Coronation/Going Out Celebration may vary
from year to year and will be announced prior to the event.
SELECTION OF KING, QUEEN, AND ROYAL COURT
The King, Queen, and their Royal Court are elected at the annual membership meeting. Men who have
been a member of a Royal Court are eligible to be elected King. Women who have been a member of a
Royal Court are eligible to be elected Queen. The Royal Court consists of four (4) men and four (4)
women who have been members of the Krewe for at least one year at the time of Coronation. The King
and Queen may, in their discretion, appoint two (2) Knights and two (2) Ladies in Waiting to assist
them during their reign. The Knights and Ladies are not members of the Royal Court.
A ballot process is utilized for the election of the King, Queen, and Royal Court. Members may vote
either in person or by proxy. Proxies are filed with the person responsible for determining who is
entitled to vote and recording those members given ballots at the election. All dues must be paid
in full before a member can receive a ballot and vote in the election.
KING AND QUEEN BENEVOLENCE/COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT
Every King and Queen may select a benevolence project they wish to support during their reign;
their selection is subject to Board approval. Over the course of their reign, they will raise funds
through various avenues. In addition to the fundraising efforts of the King and Queen, funds may
also be raised and donated to the benevolence, Royal Benevolence BunKOSA, should such events be
held during their reign. Past charities benefiting from the King and Queen benevolence have
included Sims Veterans Home, the Panama City Rescue Mission’s Bethel Village, Habitat for Humanity,
Second Chance of NW FL, Sunshine Community of NW FL, Warrior Beach Retreat, Children’s Advocacy
Center, and Anchorage Children’s Home.
PRIOR KINGS AND QUEENS
2026 “Life is a Cabaret” Mike and Terri Fowler 2025 “Once Upon A Dream” Jon and Judy Biddle
2024 “Mardi Gras American Style” Peter and Julie Slatcoff 2023 “Masquerade” Jerry and Lorena
Kelly
2022 “A Sterling Silver Mardi Gras” Krewe of St. Andrews Past Kings and Queens 2021 “A Tiffany
Mardi Gras” Ed and Kathy Benner
2020 “It’s Showtime” Brian and Jill Poyant
2019 “Roaring 20’s Mardi Gras” Jay and Pat Rea
2018 “Wild West Mardi Gras” Chris and Jennifer Coram 2017 “A Royal Affair” Vince and Cindi Bubolo
2016 “Pirates of St. Andrews” Frank and Vicki Gillmore
2015 “Mardi Gras Under the Sea” Ed Strickland and Darlene Tate 2014 “The Music Never Ends” Woodie
and Leslie Newmans
2013 “All That Jazz” Charles Segrest and Rebecca Barrow 2012 “Puttin’ on the Ritz” Terry and
Carol Hook
2011 “The French Connection” Bill and Patti Fowler
2010 “Mardi Gras on the Bayou” Charlie and Linda Coram
2009 “Mardi Gras Celebrates a Centennial” Dave and Ann Perkins 2008 “Mardi Gras Hollywood Style”
Jimmy and Ellen Davis
2007 “A Decade of Mardi Gras” Richard and Lisa Lowell 2006 “Mardi Gras Madness” Terry Cooper and
Carol Bell 2005 “Let the Good Times Roll” George and Claudia Anderson 2004 “Mardi Gras Valentine
Style” Al and Kathy Kidd
2003 “Mardi Gras Around the World” Bill and Terri Lillard 2002 “Holidays Mardi Gras Style” Bill
and Bette Bruhmuller 2001 “2001: A Mardi Gras Odyssey” Bill and Tina Hudson 2000 “Moments in Time”
Tom and Doris Bowdoin
1999 “A Bay for All Seasons” Bill Tant and Terry Rubin-Holloway 1998 “Bounty of the Bay” Logan
Kelly and Linda Scott
FUTURE KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS MARDI GRAS MAIN PARADE DATES (parades
are normally two (2) weeks before Fat Tuesday) 2023- February 11
2024- February 3
2025- February 22
2026- February 7
2027- January 30
2028- February 19
2029- February 3
2030-February 23
KREWE OF ST. ANDREWS MARDI GRAS PARADE WEEK
The KoSA parade week begins on the Wednesday before the parade.
● Wednesday evening: Float Captains dinners are held at various restaurants in St. Andrews. The
float captain and riders for each float enjoy dinner together to kick off the parade and festival
weekend. The reigning King, Queen, and their Royal Court visit each float group and hand out beads
to riders and restaurant patrons.
● Friday afternoon: The St. Andrews Mardi Gras Festival opens with merchandise vendors, food
vendors and music. A Kids’ Parade is held down Beck Avenue. Floats are filled with Krewe
children/grandchildren and children from community schools and organizations. Often a Maskers
Parade will be held through the Festival area following the Kids’ Parade. The Pet Parade will lead
the Kids Parade each year.
● Saturday: The Main Parade is held at 2:00 through St. Andrews. The Festival is open all day and
evening with merchandise vendors, food vendors and music.
OTHER EVENTS
KoSA may participate in other festivals and parades throughout the year. These may include the
Krewe of Dominique Youx Mardi Gras and Pirate Fest parades at Pier Park, the Lynn Haven and/or the
City of Panama City’s 4ᵗʰ of July parades, the Veteran’s Day parade in Panama City, the Christmas
parade in Panama City, the Apalachicola Seafood Festival and parade, the Krewe of Billy Bowlegs
Festival and parade, the Springtime Tallahassee Festival and parade, and the Krewe de Yak Mardi
Gras parade in DeFuniak Springs.
KoSA ANNUAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS (dates may vary depending on the date of Fat Tuesday each year)
JANUARY
● Twelfth Night Celebration/Blessing of the Floats
● Quarterly General Membership Meeting (meeting held when time is available around other scheduled
events and may vary based on the date of KoSA Mardi Gras Parade)
● Krewe of St. Andrews Mardi Gras Royal Ball
FEBRUARY
● Marriage to the Sea Party
● Mardi Gras, including the KoSA Mardi Gras Festival and parades (see prior section)
● Fat Tuesday
MARCH
● Annual Meeting with Election of the Board, King, Queen and the Royal Court and selection of the
following year’s theme
● KoSA Annual Charity Golf Tournament (dates may vary depending on course availability)
APRIL
● Easter Egg Hunt
● Blessing of the Fleet/Burning of the Socks (some years this may be in May)
JUNE
● Quarterly General Membership Meeting/Luau (luau may be held at a different time)
JULY
● 4ᵗʰ of July parades in Lynn Haven and Panama City
● July 15ᵗʰ Scholarship deadline
AUGUST
● Royal Coronation and Going Out Celebration
SEPTEMBER
● Quarterly General Membership Meeting/Silent Auction benefiting Breast Cancer Awareness
OCTOBER
● October 15-Scholarship Deadline
● Drawdown Fundraiser/Halloween Party
● BunKOSA benefiting Breast Cancer Awareness
NOVEMBER
● Apalachicola Seafood Festival
● Veteran’s Day parade
DECEMBER
● Christmas Party
Socials/Happy Hour gatherings, $20 Balls, and other events may be planned throughout the year and
are announced in the eblasts, newsletters and on the KoSA members-only Facebook page.
Policy Update(s) January 2020 through January 2026
These are changes in policy, as voted and accepted by the Board of Directors, and reflect updates,
revisions or adoptions of policy which affect all membership, facility rental, finance and property
owned by KoSA. These Policy Updates are listed chronologically from date of adoption.
April 2020 – The Board of Directors accepted that in extreme circumstances, member dues extend dues
payments up to 120 days if necessary, to fully pay annual dues. These dues payments can be made in
installments. This was a policy change resulting from COVID pandemic.
June 2020 – The Board of Directors accepted rental rates for various den materials. These are
$2.00 per chair, $4.00 for long tables and $6.00 for round tables, with a $50.00 refundable damage
deposit. She also recommends a minimum of $50.00 rental fee due to the effort of checking in and
out these supplies. (The Den Manager may make exceptions for rental minimums and damage deposits as
needed)
November 2020 – The Board of Directors adopted a Royal Float decorating allowance of $1000
annually. These funds are only applicable to decorations, paint and signs needed for the Royal
Float. Royal Court is encouraged to stay under budget annually.
January 2022 – The Board of Directors made an exception for a Charter Member to ride the Main
Parade route in a golf cart due to medical condition. The Board of Directors also emphasized the
general ban of golf carts in KoSA Parades
May 2022 – The Board of Directors adopted a rental policy for KoSA owned barricades. The whole
trailer of barricades is rented for $500. Delivery is $50. Unload and re-load are not included. Any
pick-up can tow the trailer. The Den Rental Manager is responsible for managing rental of KoSA
barricade payment, pick up and return.
February 2023 – The Board of Directors adopted a float rotation policy with KoDY events. Floats are
the property of the KoSA and will be varied by use for participating events.
May 2023 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy related to float riding for the following
parades: 4th of July Lynn Haven and Panama City. This policy requires all riders to pay $15 which
will go to the driver of the float for their time and fuel. All non-members who participate in
these parades will be required to complete and sign a Hold Harmless.
September 2023 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy to charge members $20 per person to attend
the Marriage to the Sea, as long as it is held at Alice’s on Bayview.
October 2023 – The Board of Directors created and adopted a Whistle Blower Policy along with an
Anti-Discrimination Policy. These are located in KoSA files on the 2nd floor of the Event Center.
They are also located as an addendum at the end of this handbook.
November 2023 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy that all Safety/Wheel Walkers for all
parades must be at least 16 years of age.
March 2024 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy to reduce costs associated with the annual
Ball that member drink tickets will be limited to two (2) per person. Also, the policy for
medallions specific to that year/theme will be ordered by request only. KoSA will not order more
than for those who requested the medallion.
March 2024 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy that all fundraising done by membership,
beginning August 2024, regardless of benefactor, will donate 50% of the funds raised to the Krewe
for ongoing business, bills and debt service.
September 2024 – The Board of Directors raised the rental price of KoSA owned barricades to
$600 per event. The $50 delivery fee remains in place.
November 2024 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy to reimburse the King & Queen (The Royal
Court) up to $50 for Ambassador gifts presented to reciprocal organizations. Receipts must be
provided to receive the reimbursement. Any costs over the allotted $50 threshold will be paid by
Royal Court members.
January 2025 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy related to RSVP versus attendance at the
Royal Ball. If someone RSVP’s but does not show up for the Royal Ball, that member will be charged
for the costs associated with the dinner/meal.
April 2025 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy related to rental float drivers. If KoSA
supplies the driver for a rental float that is rented by another organization then the charge is
$20 per hour with a $50 cap on fuel fees. These fees are in addition to normal float rental fees.
April 2025 – The Board of Directors unanimously approved the creation of a Finance Committee.
Members of this committee will be appointed/approved by the Board of Directors. As of April 2025,
the members are Carlos Cintron (Treasure Emeritus), Ashley Dunnigan and the Board elected Treasurer
of the KoSA.
June 2025 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy allowing $4500 is discretionary spending by the
King & Queen for Royal Ball decorations, bands, photographer, etc. Any funds spent over this amount
will be paid directly by the reigning King & Queen. The Board of Directors retains the right to
provide final approval on all photographers presented to be used for the Royal Ball.
September 2025 – The Board of Directors adopted a policy that ANY contract with ANY vendor must be
disclosed in writing and approved by the Board before any payments will be made.
November 2025 – The Board of Directors upheld a policy that all drivers of KoSA floats will present
a valid driver license and a copy of their individual/personal insurance card to be kept on file
before they are allowed to haul a KoSA float. The Float Captain is responsible for providing this
information to the Board of Directors before the event.
November 2025 – The Board of Directors adopted the following policies regarding KoSA floats in
parades:
1. Non-Members may ride, providing space is available on a float, for $100. This applies to KoSA
Main Parade, KoDY Mardi Gras Parade and the KoDY Pirates Parade (held in October).
2. Non-Members may ride with KoSA floats in other area parades (4th of July, Christmas, Seafood
Festival, etc.), again providing space is available, for $100. If the non-member riding on the
float wishes to join KoSA within 60 days, this $100 fee will be put toward membership dues.
Revised March 2026