Matt Brim, Robin Gochenour & Travis Kee

Queen Sharon Egan & King Dan Harriett

Melanie Collins & Theresa McKeehan

T

he Sanders Beach Community Center was full of Mardi Gras enthusiasts during the 
32nd annual Krewe of Warriors Masquerade Ball on Friday, January 26. Each year, 
the Krewe changes the theme of the ball, with this year’s being “Warriors of Oz.” 
Guests were invited to come dressed in costume, or formal attire. Live entertainment 

was provided by “Fortag,” and in traditional Warriors’ style, members joined the band on the 
stage to belt out a song before the king and queen were unmasked. A masked reception was held, 
followed by a choreographed performance with the king and queen mask reveal, which was 
directed by Lavonne French. 

The Krewe of Warriors is the only Pensacola krewe to have both a children’s and adult court 

to date. Members work with a different charity each year, and strive to work on community 
improvement projects. The krewe is full of diverse members, with ages ranging from 21 to 80. 
Today, the Krewe has a cap of 100 members. The Krewe of Warriors enters the annual Pensacola 
Mardi Gras parade every year with three fl oats, one for the Court, one for the Krewe, and one for 
the Kids Court. 

the

“Warriors of Oz” 

ball

   VIP Pensacola at Sanders Beach Community Center

photos & story by

 

Kristina Wright

 

Lavonne French & Lisa Combs

Ann Keike & Paula Pelezo

Aggie Lee & Chris Ketnick

March 2018   |   59 

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2/25/18   11:46 AM