The Krewe of Little Rascals celebrates its 30th anniversary as a premier organization for the youth of America. The Krewe of Little Rascals was formed in 1983 by Jack and Maureen Spittler, who wanted to give their own children and the children of the Greater New Orleans area their own unique Mardi Gras experience. The Krewe has members from all over the United States now who also participate in the Ball Masque and the Parade. In 1987, Arthur Hardy, author of the Mardi Gras Guide, said of the Krewe “…with the support of residents and businesses in the Kenner-Metairie community, the Little Rascals may be destined to make Mardi Gras history, by surviving as a quality organization for youngsters”. In 2008, more than 20 years later, Arthur Hardy writes of the Krewe “Little Rascals is the longest running, most flamboyant, most successful organization for young people in the history of Mardi Gras”. The Krewe gained international exposure through a 1997 segment on T.V. in Japan and our 1998 feature article in National Geographic WORLD Magazine. Dot Cooke, Assistant Captain and Parade Coordinator said, “Our parade, on January 20, 2013 attracted a crowd of over 300,000, three times as many people as the crowd who attend the Super Bowl”. When the Krewe began, there were only 3 Krewe floats. Now the parade has 14-20 floats totaling 85+ units each year. They include Court floats, Krewe floats and a specially designed float for handicapped riders. These floats are joined by marching groups, bands, horseback riding groups, car clubs, and our Grand Marshal and other special interest units. The Jerusalem Temple and Farhad Grotto Shriners are a beloved part of our production, along with several radio station vans and special vehicles. Many schools from the Metro Area participate, along with dance schools, military bands and floats, Jimmy’s Kids. Radio Disney, the Hornets Bookmobile, Honey Bees and the Saintsations have also been attractions in our parade.. One year we featured the iconic “Roman Candy” horse carriage, as a Mardi Gras first. Hundreds of thousands+ watch as our family-oriented parade and ball are aired on area T.V. and now on the internet. Our parade Grand Marshals have included national sports figures, music celebrities both national and local, TV personalities, a Navajo Code Talker and bbefore his untimely death, Mr. Spanky McFarland rode as our Grand Marshal. He was “Spanky” in the original motion picture and was very happy to be part of our organization. Our kids “of all ages” will never forget him. We have special rates available on rooms at a local hotel for our out-of-town members and guests. For further information on how your child can become a Little Rascals and a member of this great organization, please visit our website: www.kreweoflittlerascals.org or contact kreweklr@aol.com. 30th Anniversary 2013 season Captains Miss Amanda Rose Tinkle Miss Taylor Shelenhamer King: Master Austin Engel Queen: Miss Abby Shelenhamer