MARDI GRAS POEM•

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• Masqueraders movingKing and Queen go forthStanding in a royal placeA Jester joins their court

Princesses and maidens

Searching through the crowdsSeeking joy and happiness

Underneath masked shrouds

Joined in jubilationThe crowds now move aboutSearching for their happiness

So joyful there's no doubt

Streets abound with laughterDancing has begun

Everyone relatedMasks have made them one

Constant stream of joyfulness

Parades and floats go byMusic fills the crowded streets

Torches light the sky

Last hurrah of seasonFood and wine to last

This in preparationFor forty days of fast

Cake: 1/2 cup warm water (100-115 F) 2 tablespoons yeast 1/2 cup sugar, plus 2 teaspoons 3 1/2 - 4 cup flour 1 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1/2 cup warm 2 teaspoons salt milk 5 egg yolks 1/2 cup butter 2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon milk, for egg wash

Icing:3 cups confectioner's sugar 1/4 cup lemon juice 3-6 tablespoons water

As early 1901 , a group called tramps Marched on fat Tuesday. Zulu came Later in 1909.It was the first parade Made by African-American. This yearIs the 100 year anniversary.

Mardi Gras is always 47 days prior to Easter Sunday, so the date can fall between February 3 and March 9 depending on the calculations done by the Catholic Church. This holiday came to New Orleans in 1699 with the French explorer Iberville.  The official colors for the holiday were chosen in 1872 .  They are purple, gold, and green.   Purple stands for justice, green for faith, and gold for power.

Throughout its ten year history, the Southside Shuffle, Port Credit’s Blues and Jazz Festival, which is a non-for-profit organization, has developed strong community and charitable connections, many of which have reached well beyond the village of Port Credit.