The Krewe of Muses Gives Back

Oh Muses!!  Four days and counting...  I know it's all I've talked about recently, but honestly, it's all I think about.  Well, that and work.  Mardi Gras and tax season are a tricky combination.  It's a lesson in the old adage "work hard, play hard."  I'm working extra hard these next few days so that, come Thursday morning, I can have Muses on my mind. 

I mention how fabulous I think the Krewe of Muses is for all of the reasons that most of you already know about - the fantastically creative throws, the satirical floats, and the glittered shoes.  But the thing I think makes being a part of this Krewe so special is that it is truly an expression of our love for New Orleans and her people. 

Photo courtesy of Melinda Morris, The Times-Picayune

Each year the Krewe holds a contest in which high school students submit drawings for our cup design.  The winner is not only featured on the cups we throw, but the art department of his or her high school is the recipient of a $1,000 grant.  This year's winner is Michael Washington from O. Perry Walker.  With no formal art training, but a love of drawing, Michael delved into his cup design with all the

passion a Muses puts into her glittered shoes.  I was most impressed that he spent time researching the history of this year's Muse, Terpsichore, and that he carefully incorporated her inspiration's,  dance and choral singing, into his drawing.  I was so happy to read that the grant given to O. Perry Walker was not only being used to benefit the art department, but that it was also helping pay for costs associated with Michael's portfolio which he will be submitting to art schools!  GO MICHAEL!!!  If you're on the route, ask for a cup and be sure to admire his lovely design.  Click HERE to read more about Michael and see his submission...

In 2010, Muses set a goal to raise $20,000 to help the St. Bernard Project rebuild the home of Pamela Johnson.  As it's 2011 honorary muse, defined as a woman who embodies the spirit of one of the nine muses, the Krewe selected Liz McCartney.  Liz is the Director of Development and Co-Founder of St. Bernard Project, a non-profit organization that rebuilds storm-damaged homes and lives in St. Bernard and Orleans Parishes.  She was the 2008 CNN Hero of the Year, and is truly an inspiration to us all.  She proves that the power of empathy, love, and compassion can heal even the deepest wounds and bring us all closer in the process.  As the honorary muse, Liz will get to ride in our signature fiber optic red high heel float.  Riding along with her will be Pamela Johnson.  I couldn't be prouder to call them my Muses sisters.

I'll end this post with our parade's motto...

Happy are those who the Muses love.