Mardi Gras 2018
24th Annual
Saturday, February 3rd
5:30 pm - 11:30 pm
(Doors open at 5 pm, Dinner served from 6-8 pm, Cash Bar)
Tickets: $30 ($35 at the door — CASH ONLY — if tickets are still available)
Call Lorraine Cloutier at (401) 762-9072 or lcloutier1@cox.net
St. Ann Arts & Cultural Center
84 Cumberland Street,Woonsocket, RI
Live music by
Jeff Gamache and Runaway Train
(Country)
and
The Squeezebox Stompers
(Zydeco, Blues & Soul, Cajun Waltzes)
Emceed by Jeff Gamache
FULL CAJUN BUFFET CATERED BY
RUSSELL MORIN CATERING
MENU
Mixed Greens Melange with Dressing Buffet
Artisan Breads & Whipped Butter
French Meat Pie
Chicken & Andouille Biscuits
Shrimp Jamabalya
Cajun Vegetable Sauté
Whipped Yukon Potatoes
Pecan Pie with Whipped Cream
Coffee (Regular And De-Caf)
MARDI GRAS QUEEN'S CORONATION
AND THE UNMASKING OF KING JACE
Was held on Friday, January 26, 2018 from 6-8 pm
at Savini's Pomodoro
476 Rathbun Street, Woonsocket, RI
Our Queen Contestants sold
raffle tickets
to benefit this year's Mardi Gras Raffle
King Jace contest
sponsored by Dave Richards of WOON
Radio
Clues to King Jace XXIV's Identity
1. King Jace has never met a fish he liked.
2. King Jace is an Outdoors Man.
3. King Jace often says "Pasta Bucatini"
4. King Jace has ridden the rails.
5. King Jace has a trashy side.
6. King Jace has sailed the seas.
7. King Jace might ticket you when you travel.
8. King Jace gets down to Rock 'n' Roll.
9. King Jace is happy when he's Blue.
10. When King Jace is here "The Doctor Is In."
The winner of the King Jace contest was Paul Ouellette.
And King Jace is ....
Bob Billington!
Mardi Gras Queen Contestants 
Joyce LaPerle resides in Woonsocket and is employed at Oakland Grove Health Care Center for the past 16 years where she has earned the title of employee of the month. She is coordinator of holiday celebrations, oversees all gardening and decorating throughout the building and entrance. She loves listening to local residents reminisce about growing up and working in the mills of Woonsocket whose history should be preserved. Her special interests are spending time at the ocean and boating. She is an avid supporter for the Stadium Theatre, The Alzheimer's Association as well as New Beginnings, formerly known as Because He Lives. She is also president of River Island Condo Association. Joyce was Mardi Gras Queen in 2005 and believes her dedication and support for the NRICA and the Arts will again help in keeping the culture and traditions alive in the community. In her spare time, she helps her sister, Jeanne Bis and Ralph Bileau at Bileau's Flowers in Woonsocket.
2018 Mardi Gras Queen
Joyce LaPerle
2018 Mardi Gras Princess
Kimberly Blais is the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of Woonsocket Schools and is very active in the community. She is a committee member for the Milk Fund, secretary to the St. Jude’s Woonsocket Chapter and enjoys volunteering whenever needed. Kimberly is the mother to Kayla and Kasandra and aunt to Arianna Montanari. She says, “I am devoted to my city. I enjoy being active within the community, volunteering for causes that will make a difference in the lives of others. Having said this, I am honored to be part of the Mardi Gras and helping to support the arts.”
Tammy Irwin participated in last year’s contest and earned the title of Princess. She is owner and operator, with her husband Frank, of Timeless Antiques and Collectibles. She is also a member of the Woonsocket Historical Society, Downtown Woonsocket Collaborative and has participated in the Main Street Stroll committee. She loves the history of Woonsocket. She is very excited to be a part of Mardi Gras and its tradition and at the same time support the arts in the community.
2018 Mardi Gras Princess
Ellen Cloutier is participating in the contest for a second year. She is a resident of Woonsocket and is a published poet. She enjoys swimming, softball, reading and writing and wants to be involved in the community. Her grandmother, Jeanne Cloutier encouraged her to participate.
Amanda Girard has been involved with the Mardi Gras for several years as a contestant. She is also a resident of Woonsocket and attends the Community College of Rhode Island. She is a member of CCRI Players, International Club, and Student Government. Amanda has also performed in several productions at the Stadium Theatre. She loves helping out such an awesome cause for NRICA and being a part of doing something good for the city.
Previous Kings & Queens
(click on links to see Mardi Gras page from that year)
1954 •
Pauline (Nadeau) Miller
1955 •
Maureen (Mazzarella) Kennedy
1956 •
Beverly (DiCesare) Russell
1957 •
Pauline (Gagnon) Riendeau
1958 •
Rita (Laliberte) Nadeau
1959 •
Claire (Paul) Lafrance
1988 •
Michelle (Lefort) Wheeler
Owen Bebeau
•1995 •
Gloria Jean Roy
Roger Nault
• 1996 •
Paula Rezendes
Al Auclair
• 1997 •
Roxanne Menard
Leo Fontaine
• 1998 •
Dianna Glassey
Roger Jalette
• 1999 •
Donna Gallant
Ken Bianchi
• 2000 •
Nancy (Melvin) Beauregard
Noel Pincince
• 2001 •
Suzanne Beaulieu
Dave Richards
• 2002 •
Lorraine Jacob
Roger Petit
• 2003 •
Stacey (McCutcheon) Fitzsimmons
Roger Bouchard
• 2004 •
Roberta Baillargeon
Tom Ward
• 2005 •
Joyce LaPerle
Brian Blais
• 2006 •
Lorraine Guilbault
Marcel Desroches
• 2007 •
Nancy Phillips
• 2008 •
• 2009 •
• 2010 •
• 2011 •
• 2012 •
• 2013 •
Bob Phillips
• 2014 •
Sheylon Lawson
Paul Shatraw
• 2015 •
Tracey Parenteau
Edward Hunt
• 2016 •
Tammy Lamberto Roy
Joe Nadeau
• 2017 •
Nicole Riendeau
Bob Billington
• 2018 •
Joyce LaPerle
The king and his court -- Kim Blais, King Bob Billington and Queen Joyce LaPerle, and Tammy Irwin.
Photo by Judith Potter
Queen's Contest Raffle Prize Winners
First Prize, $500 won by Wayne Pandolfi of North Smithfield
Second Prize, $300 Mohegan Sun Gift Card won by Donna Palreiro of Woonsocket
Third Prize, $100 Visa Gift Card won by Arnie Ferrante of Woonsocket
Fourth Prize, $50 Gift Card To Savini's Pomodoro Restaurant won by Rick Whitesell of Woonsocket
Costumes!
Costume Contest Winners Jason Badeau (Jester) and Tracey Belliveau (Goddess Mermaid)
A very special birthday was celebrated -- Clara L'Heureux (center) turns 95 on February 14th!
Helping her celebrate are Mardi Gras Co-Chairs Marlene Gagnon (left) and Wally Rathbun (alligator) assisted by Dominique Doiron.
Our Sponsors
(click on logo or link to visit our sponsors' websites)
281 Harris Avenue,
Woonsocket, RI
362 Rathbun Street, Woonsocket, RI
American-French Genealogical Society
Athena's Home Novelties
640 Winter Street, Woonsocket, RI
Romeo & Diane Berthiaume
Uxbridge, MA
Bileau's Flowers
665 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket RI
175 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI
John Boucher Real Estate Property Management, Inc.
600 Cass Avenue, Woonsocket, RI
68 Cumberland Street, Suite 202, Woonsocket, RI, (401) 765-8880
New England Regional Office
1300 Park Avenue,
Woonsocket, RI
Cercle Laurier
165 East School Street, Woonsocket, RI
Club Lafayette
289 Aylsworth Avenue, Woonsocket, RI
10 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland, RI
Senator Marc A. Cote
Woonsocket, RI
1098 Diamond Hill Rd. Woonsocket, RI 02895
phone: (401) 769-0462, toll free: (877) 237-6993, fax: (401) 767-3806
389 Old River Road, Manville, RI
Italian Workingmen's Club, 947 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket, RI
Manville Sportsmen's Rod and Gun Club
250 High Street, Manville, RI
Milford Federal Savings & Loan
246 Main Street, Milford, MA
1005 Douglas Pike Smithfield, RI 02917
Quota International of Woonsocket
St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center
Vose True Value Hardware
849 Cumberland Hill Road, Woonsocket, RI
Gifts and Gift Certificates
Athena's Home Novelties
640 Winter Street, Woonsocket, RI
1992 Victory Highway, Glendale, RI
Bileau's Flowers, 665 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket RI
with locations in Rhode Island (South Kingstown, West Warwick),
Massachusetts (Braintree, Hyannis, South Attleboro, Swansea)
Sharon Charette
North Smithfield, RI
Lorraine Cloutier, Woonsocket, RI
Gift Certificate for 
2378 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI
2360 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI 02864-3708, (401) 658-2626
34 Fournier Street, Woonsocket, RI
Excel Beauty Salon (Sue Beaulieu, Mardi Gras Queen 2001)
800 Providence Street, Woonsocket, RI
Marlene Gagnon
North Smithfield, RI
Joan Gahan
Woonsocket, RI
Clara Holding
"Life's Little Extras"
641 Blackstone Street, Uxbridge, MA
Image Makers Beauty Salon
37 Main Street, Albion, RI
La Navi Nails
800 Providence Street, Woonsocket, RI
1500 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket, RI
Wally Rathbun, St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center
Savini’s Pomodoro Restaurant
476 Rathbun Street, Woonsocket, RI
Carolyn Picchiotti Smith
Cumberland, RI
Stadium Theatre
28 Monument Square, Woonsocket, RI
Nancy Sylvestre, East Thompson, CT
Sue Tessier MacKenzie,
Seasonal Sweets
289 Summer Street, Woonsocket, RI
42 South Main Street,
Garden Level Around Back,
Woonsocket, RI
200 Woonsocket Hill Road, North Smithfield, RI
A SHORT HISTORY OF MARDI GRAS
Many of the traditions of Mardi Gras have their roots in a Roman
festival called the Saturnalia which celebrated the end of
winter and the coming of spring. Over time, and with the spread
of Christianity, the festival became a final binge of feasting
and self-indulgence before the sacrifice of Lent. In 17th century
Paris, the celebration came to be known as Mardi Gras, or Fat
Tuesday – a way for Christians to fatten up before the
long Lenten season.
French settlers brought their traditions to Louisiana in 1766.
By 1857, New Orleans began to develop its own traditions of
masked balls, organized parades, and “throws” (favors
such as beads, doubloons, and cups thrown from parade floats).
In 1872, the King of Mardi Gras selected the celebration’s
official colors of purple, green, and gold. The colors’ meanings
were defined as justice (purple), faith (green), and power
(gold) in 1892.
In 1954, the Mardi Gras tradition was started in Woonsocket by
the Junior Chamber of Commerce. The four days of festivities
earned the celebration the title of “Mardi Gras of the
North.” The Jaycees’ involvement in Mardi Gras
gave our king his name – King Jace.
Since 1995, the NRICA and the Mardi Gras Committee, with the invaluable
help of our sponsors, have worked hard to bring the authentic
feel and the fun of a traditional Mardi Gras celebration to
Woonsocket.
Tickets: $30 ($35 at the door — CASH ONLY — if tickets are still available)
Call Lorraine Cloutier at (401) 762-9072 or lcloutier1@cox.net
St. Ann Arts & Cultural Center
84 Cumberland Street,Woonsocket, RI
Live music by
Jeff Gamache and Runaway Train
(Country)
and
The Squeezebox Stompers
(Zydeco, Blues & Soul, Cajun Waltzes)
Emceed by Jeff Gamache
FULL CAJUN BUFFET CATERED BY
RUSSELL MORIN CATERING
MENU
Mixed Greens Melange with Dressing Buffet
Artisan Breads & Whipped Butter
French Meat Pie
Chicken & Andouille Biscuits
Shrimp Jamabalya
Cajun Vegetable Sauté
Whipped Yukon Potatoes
Pecan Pie with Whipped Cream
Coffee (Regular And De-Caf)
MARDI GRAS QUEEN'S CORONATION
AND THE UNMASKING OF KING JACE
Was held on Friday, January 26, 2018 from 6-8 pm
at Savini's Pomodoro
476 Rathbun Street, Woonsocket, RI
Our Queen Contestants sold
raffle tickets
to benefit this year's Mardi Gras Raffle
King Jace contest
sponsored by Dave Richards of WOON
Radio
Clues to King Jace XXIV's Identity
1. King Jace has never met a fish he liked.
2. King Jace is an Outdoors Man.
3. King Jace often says "Pasta Bucatini"
4. King Jace has ridden the rails.
5. King Jace has a trashy side.
6. King Jace has sailed the seas.
7. King Jace might ticket you when you travel.
8. King Jace gets down to Rock 'n' Roll.
9. King Jace is happy when he's Blue.
10. When King Jace is here "The Doctor Is In."
The winner of the King Jace contest was Paul Ouellette.
And King Jace is ....
Bob Billington!
Mardi Gras Queen Contestants
Joyce LaPerle resides in Woonsocket and is employed at Oakland Grove Health Care Center for the past 16 years where she has earned the title of employee of the month. She is coordinator of holiday celebrations, oversees all gardening and decorating throughout the building and entrance. She loves listening to local residents reminisce about growing up and working in the mills of Woonsocket whose history should be preserved. Her special interests are spending time at the ocean and boating. She is an avid supporter for the Stadium Theatre, The Alzheimer's Association as well as New Beginnings, formerly known as Because He Lives. She is also president of River Island Condo Association. Joyce was Mardi Gras Queen in 2005 and believes her dedication and support for the NRICA and the Arts will again help in keeping the culture and traditions alive in the community. In her spare time, she helps her sister, Jeanne Bis and Ralph Bileau at Bileau's Flowers in Woonsocket.
2018 Mardi Gras Queen
Joyce LaPerle
2018 Mardi Gras Princess
Kimberly Blais is the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of Woonsocket Schools and is very active in the community. She is a committee member for the Milk Fund, secretary to the St. Jude’s Woonsocket Chapter and enjoys volunteering whenever needed. Kimberly is the mother to Kayla and Kasandra and aunt to Arianna Montanari. She says, “I am devoted to my city. I enjoy being active within the community, volunteering for causes that will make a difference in the lives of others. Having said this, I am honored to be part of the Mardi Gras and helping to support the arts.”
Tammy Irwin participated in last year’s contest and earned the title of Princess. She is owner and operator, with her husband Frank, of Timeless Antiques and Collectibles. She is also a member of the Woonsocket Historical Society, Downtown Woonsocket Collaborative and has participated in the Main Street Stroll committee. She loves the history of Woonsocket. She is very excited to be a part of Mardi Gras and its tradition and at the same time support the arts in the community.
2018 Mardi Gras Princess
Ellen Cloutier is participating in the contest for a second year. She is a resident of Woonsocket and is a published poet. She enjoys swimming, softball, reading and writing and wants to be involved in the community. Her grandmother, Jeanne Cloutier encouraged her to participate.
Amanda Girard has been involved with the Mardi Gras for several years as a contestant. She is also a resident of Woonsocket and attends the Community College of Rhode Island. She is a member of CCRI Players, International Club, and Student Government. Amanda has also performed in several productions at the Stadium Theatre. She loves helping out such an awesome cause for NRICA and being a part of doing something good for the city.
Previous Kings & Queens
(click on links to see Mardi Gras page from that year)
1954 •
Pauline (Nadeau) Miller
1955 •
Maureen (Mazzarella) Kennedy
1956 •
Beverly (DiCesare) Russell
1957 •
Pauline (Gagnon) Riendeau
1958 •
Rita (Laliberte) Nadeau
1959 •
Claire (Paul) Lafrance
1988 •
Michelle (Lefort) Wheeler
Owen Bebeau
•1995 •
Gloria Jean Roy
Roger Nault
• 1996 •
Paula Rezendes
Al Auclair
• 1997 •
Roxanne Menard
Leo Fontaine
• 1998 •
Dianna Glassey
Roger Jalette
• 1999 •
Donna Gallant
Ken Bianchi
• 2000 •
Nancy (Melvin) Beauregard
Noel Pincince
• 2001 •
Suzanne Beaulieu
Dave Richards
• 2002 •
Lorraine Jacob
Roger Petit
• 2003 •
Stacey (McCutcheon) Fitzsimmons
Roger Bouchard
• 2004 •
Roberta Baillargeon
Tom Ward
• 2005 •
Joyce LaPerle
Brian Blais
• 2006 •
Lorraine Guilbault
Marcel Desroches
• 2007 •
Nancy Phillips
• 2008 •
• 2009 •
• 2010 •
• 2011 •
• 2012 •
• 2013 •
Bob Phillips
• 2014 •
Sheylon Lawson
Paul Shatraw
• 2015 •
Tracey Parenteau
Edward Hunt
• 2016 •
Tammy Lamberto Roy
Joe Nadeau
• 2017 •
Nicole Riendeau
Bob Billington
• 2018 •
Joyce LaPerle
The king and his court -- Kim Blais, King Bob Billington and Queen Joyce LaPerle, and Tammy Irwin.
Photo by Judith Potter
Queen's Contest Raffle Prize Winners
First Prize, $500 won by Wayne Pandolfi of North Smithfield
Second Prize, $300 Mohegan Sun Gift Card won by Donna Palreiro of Woonsocket
Third Prize, $100 Visa Gift Card won by Arnie Ferrante of Woonsocket
Fourth Prize, $50 Gift Card To Savini's Pomodoro Restaurant won by Rick Whitesell of Woonsocket
Costumes!
Costume Contest Winners Jason Badeau (Jester) and Tracey Belliveau (Goddess Mermaid)
A very special birthday was celebrated -- Clara L'Heureux (center) turns 95 on February 14th!
Helping her celebrate are Mardi Gras Co-Chairs Marlene Gagnon (left) and Wally Rathbun (alligator) assisted by Dominique Doiron.
Our Sponsors
(click on logo or link to visit our sponsors' websites)
281 Harris Avenue,
Woonsocket, RI
362 Rathbun Street, Woonsocket, RI
American-French Genealogical Society
Athena's Home Novelties
640 Winter Street, Woonsocket, RI
Romeo & Diane Berthiaume
Uxbridge, MA
Bileau's Flowers
665 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket RI
175 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI
John Boucher Real Estate Property Management, Inc.
600 Cass Avenue, Woonsocket, RI
68 Cumberland Street, Suite 202, Woonsocket, RI, (401) 765-8880
New England Regional Office
1300 Park Avenue,
Woonsocket, RI
Cercle Laurier
165 East School Street, Woonsocket, RI
Club Lafayette
289 Aylsworth Avenue, Woonsocket, RI
10 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland, RI
Senator Marc A. Cote
Woonsocket, RI
1098 Diamond Hill Rd. Woonsocket, RI 02895
phone: (401) 769-0462, toll free: (877) 237-6993, fax: (401) 767-3806
389 Old River Road, Manville, RI
Italian Workingmen's Club, 947 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket, RI
Manville Sportsmen's Rod and Gun Club
250 High Street, Manville, RI
Milford Federal Savings & Loan
246 Main Street, Milford, MA
1005 Douglas Pike Smithfield, RI 02917
Quota International of Woonsocket
St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center
Vose True Value Hardware
849 Cumberland Hill Road, Woonsocket, RI
Gifts and Gift Certificates
Athena's Home Novelties
640 Winter Street, Woonsocket, RI
1992 Victory Highway, Glendale, RI
Bileau's Flowers, 665 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket RI
with locations in Rhode Island (South Kingstown, West Warwick),
Massachusetts (Braintree, Hyannis, South Attleboro, Swansea)
Sharon Charette
North Smithfield, RI
Lorraine Cloutier, Woonsocket, RI
Gift Certificate for
2378 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI
2360 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI 02864-3708, (401) 658-2626
34 Fournier Street, Woonsocket, RI
Excel Beauty Salon (Sue Beaulieu, Mardi Gras Queen 2001)
800 Providence Street, Woonsocket, RI
Marlene Gagnon
North Smithfield, RI
Joan Gahan
Woonsocket, RI
Clara Holding
"Life's Little Extras"
641 Blackstone Street, Uxbridge, MA
Image Makers Beauty Salon
37 Main Street, Albion, RI
La Navi Nails
800 Providence Street, Woonsocket, RI
1500 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket, RI
Wally Rathbun, St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center
Savini’s Pomodoro Restaurant
476 Rathbun Street, Woonsocket, RI
Carolyn Picchiotti Smith
Cumberland, RI
Stadium Theatre
28 Monument Square, Woonsocket, RI
Nancy Sylvestre, East Thompson, CT
Sue Tessier MacKenzie,
Seasonal Sweets
289 Summer Street, Woonsocket, RI
42 South Main Street,
Garden Level Around Back,
Woonsocket, RI
200 Woonsocket Hill Road, North Smithfield, RI
A SHORT HISTORY OF MARDI GRAS
Many of the traditions of Mardi Gras have their roots in a Roman
festival called the Saturnalia which celebrated the end of
winter and the coming of spring. Over time, and with the spread
of Christianity, the festival became a final binge of feasting
and self-indulgence before the sacrifice of Lent. In 17th century
Paris, the celebration came to be known as Mardi Gras, or Fat
Tuesday – a way for Christians to fatten up before the
long Lenten season.
French settlers brought their traditions to Louisiana in 1766.
By 1857, New Orleans began to develop its own traditions of
masked balls, organized parades, and “throws” (favors
such as beads, doubloons, and cups thrown from parade floats).
In 1872, the King of Mardi Gras selected the celebration’s
official colors of purple, green, and gold. The colors’ meanings
were defined as justice (purple), faith (green), and power
(gold) in 1892.
In 1954, the Mardi Gras tradition was started in Woonsocket by
the Junior Chamber of Commerce. The four days of festivities
earned the celebration the title of “Mardi Gras of the
North.” The Jaycees’ involvement in Mardi Gras
gave our king his name – King Jace.
Since 1995, the NRICA and the Mardi Gras Committee, with the invaluable
help of our sponsors, have worked hard to bring the authentic
feel and the fun of a traditional Mardi Gras celebration to
Woonsocket.
Call Lorraine Cloutier at (401) 762-9072 or lcloutier1@cox.net
St. Ann Arts & Cultural Center
84 Cumberland Street,Woonsocket, RI
Live music by
Jeff Gamache and Runaway Train
(Country)
and
The Squeezebox Stompers
(Zydeco, Blues & Soul, Cajun Waltzes)
Emceed by Jeff Gamache
FULL CAJUN BUFFET CATERED BY
RUSSELL MORIN CATERING
MENU
Mixed Greens Melange with Dressing Buffet
Artisan Breads & Whipped Butter
French Meat Pie
Chicken & Andouille Biscuits
Shrimp Jamabalya
Cajun Vegetable Sauté
Whipped Yukon Potatoes
Pecan Pie with Whipped Cream
Coffee (Regular And De-Caf)
MARDI GRAS QUEEN'S CORONATION
AND THE UNMASKING OF KING JACE
Was held on Friday, January 26, 2018 from 6-8 pm
at Savini's Pomodoro
476 Rathbun Street, Woonsocket, RI
Our Queen Contestants sold
raffle tickets
to benefit this year's Mardi Gras Raffle
King Jace contest
sponsored by Dave Richards of WOON
Radio
Clues to King Jace XXIV's Identity
1. King Jace has never met a fish he liked.
2. King Jace is an Outdoors Man.
3. King Jace often says "Pasta Bucatini"
4. King Jace has ridden the rails.
5. King Jace has a trashy side.
6. King Jace has sailed the seas.
7. King Jace might ticket you when you travel.
8. King Jace gets down to Rock 'n' Roll.
9. King Jace is happy when he's Blue.
10. When King Jace is here "The Doctor Is In."
The winner of the King Jace contest was Paul Ouellette.
And King Jace is ....
Bob Billington!
|
|
| Joyce LaPerle resides in Woonsocket and is employed at Oakland Grove Health Care Center for the past 16 years where she has earned the title of employee of the month. She is coordinator of holiday celebrations, oversees all gardening and decorating throughout the building and entrance. She loves listening to local residents reminisce about growing up and working in the mills of Woonsocket whose history should be preserved. Her special interests are spending time at the ocean and boating. She is an avid supporter for the Stadium Theatre, The Alzheimer's Association as well as New Beginnings, formerly known as Because He Lives. She is also president of River Island Condo Association. Joyce was Mardi Gras Queen in 2005 and believes her dedication and support for the NRICA and the Arts will again help in keeping the culture and traditions alive in the community. In her spare time, she helps her sister, Jeanne Bis and Ralph Bileau at Bileau's Flowers in Woonsocket. |
2018 Mardi Gras Queen
|
|
Kimberly Blais is the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of Woonsocket Schools and is very active in the community. She is a committee member for the Milk Fund, secretary to the St. Jude’s Woonsocket Chapter and enjoys volunteering whenever needed. Kimberly is the mother to Kayla and Kasandra and aunt to Arianna Montanari. She says, “I am devoted to my city. I enjoy being active within the community, volunteering for causes that will make a difference in the lives of others. Having said this, I am honored to be part of the Mardi Gras and helping to support the arts.” |
Tammy Irwin participated in last year’s contest and earned the title of Princess. She is owner and operator, with her husband Frank, of Timeless Antiques and Collectibles. She is also a member of the Woonsocket Historical Society, Downtown Woonsocket Collaborative and has participated in the Main Street Stroll committee. She loves the history of Woonsocket. She is very excited to be a part of Mardi Gras and its tradition and at the same time support the arts in the community. |
2018 Mardi Gras Princess
|
|
|
|
Ellen Cloutier is participating in the contest for a second year. She is a resident of Woonsocket and is a published poet. She enjoys swimming, softball, reading and writing and wants to be involved in the community. Her grandmother, Jeanne Cloutier encouraged her to participate. |
| Amanda Girard has been involved with the Mardi Gras for several years as a contestant. She is also a resident of Woonsocket and attends the Community College of Rhode Island. She is a member of CCRI Players, International Club, and Student Government. Amanda has also performed in several productions at the Stadium Theatre. She loves helping out such an awesome cause for NRICA and being a part of doing something good for the city. | |
Previous Kings & Queens
(click on links to see Mardi Gras page from that year)
|
1954 • |
Pauline (Nadeau) Miller |
1955 • |
Maureen (Mazzarella) Kennedy |
|
1956 • |
Beverly (DiCesare) Russell |
|
1957 • |
Pauline (Gagnon) Riendeau |
|
1958 • |
Rita (Laliberte) Nadeau |
|
1959 • |
Claire (Paul) Lafrance |
|
1988 • |
Michelle (Lefort) Wheeler |
|
Owen Bebeau |
•1995 • |
Gloria Jean Roy |
Roger Nault |
• 1996 • |
Paula Rezendes |
Al Auclair |
• 1997 • |
Roxanne Menard |
Leo Fontaine |
• 1998 • |
Dianna Glassey |
Roger Jalette |
• 1999 • |
Donna Gallant |
Ken Bianchi |
• 2000 • |
Nancy (Melvin) Beauregard |
Noel Pincince |
• 2001 • |
Suzanne Beaulieu |
Dave Richards |
• 2002 • |
Lorraine Jacob |
Roger Petit |
• 2003 • |
Stacey (McCutcheon) Fitzsimmons |
Roger Bouchard |
• 2004 • |
Roberta Baillargeon |
Tom Ward |
• 2005 • |
Joyce LaPerle |
Brian Blais |
• 2006 • |
Lorraine Guilbault |
Marcel Desroches |
• 2007 • |
Nancy Phillips |
• 2008 • |
||
• 2009 • |
||
• 2010 • |
||
• 2011 • |
||
• 2012 • |
||
• 2013 • |
||
| Bob Phillips | • 2014 • | Sheylon Lawson |
| Paul Shatraw | • 2015 • | Tracey Parenteau |
| Edward Hunt | • 2016 • | Tammy Lamberto Roy |
| Joe Nadeau | • 2017 • | Nicole Riendeau |
| Bob Billington | • 2018 • | Joyce LaPerle |
The king and his court -- Kim Blais, King Bob Billington and Queen Joyce LaPerle, and Tammy Irwin. |
||
Queen's Contest Raffle Prize Winners
|
||
Costumes! |
| Costume Contest Winners Jason Badeau (Jester) and Tracey Belliveau (Goddess Mermaid) |
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| A very special birthday was celebrated -- Clara L'Heureux (center) turns 95 on February 14th! Helping her celebrate are Mardi Gras Co-Chairs Marlene Gagnon (left) and Wally Rathbun (alligator) assisted by Dominique Doiron. |
Our Sponsors
(click on logo or link to visit our sponsors' websites)
281 Harris Avenue,
Woonsocket, RI
362 Rathbun Street, Woonsocket, RI
American-French Genealogical Society
Athena's Home Novelties
640 Winter Street, Woonsocket, RI
Romeo & Diane Berthiaume
Uxbridge, MA
Bileau's Flowers
665 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket RI
175 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI
John Boucher Real Estate Property Management, Inc.
600 Cass Avenue, Woonsocket, RI
68 Cumberland Street, Suite 202, Woonsocket, RI, (401) 765-8880
New England Regional Office
1300 Park Avenue,
Woonsocket, RI
Cercle Laurier
165 East School Street, Woonsocket, RI
Club Lafayette
289 Aylsworth Avenue, Woonsocket, RI
10 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland, RI
Senator Marc A. Cote
Woonsocket, RI
1098 Diamond Hill Rd. Woonsocket, RI 02895
phone: (401) 769-0462, toll free: (877) 237-6993, fax: (401) 767-3806
389 Old River Road, Manville, RI
Italian Workingmen's Club, 947 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket, RI
Manville Sportsmen's Rod and Gun Club
250 High Street, Manville, RI
Milford Federal Savings & Loan
246 Main Street, Milford, MA
1005 Douglas Pike Smithfield, RI 02917
Quota International of Woonsocket
St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center
Vose True Value Hardware
849 Cumberland Hill Road, Woonsocket, RI
Gifts and Gift Certificates
Athena's Home Novelties
640 Winter Street, Woonsocket, RI
1992 Victory Highway, Glendale, RI
Bileau's Flowers, 665 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket RI
with locations in Rhode Island (South Kingstown, West Warwick),
Massachusetts (Braintree, Hyannis, South Attleboro, Swansea)
Sharon Charette
North Smithfield, RI
Lorraine Cloutier, Woonsocket, RI
Gift Certificate for
2360 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI 02864-3708, (401) 658-2626
34 Fournier Street, Woonsocket, RI
Excel Beauty Salon (Sue Beaulieu, Mardi Gras Queen 2001)
800 Providence Street, Woonsocket, RI
Marlene Gagnon
North Smithfield, RI
Joan Gahan
Woonsocket, RI
Clara Holding
"Life's Little Extras"
641 Blackstone Street, Uxbridge, MA
Image Makers Beauty Salon
37 Main Street, Albion, RI
La Navi Nails
800 Providence Street, Woonsocket, RI
1500 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket, RI
Wally Rathbun, St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center
Savini’s Pomodoro Restaurant
476 Rathbun Street, Woonsocket, RI
Carolyn Picchiotti Smith
Cumberland, RI
Stadium Theatre
28 Monument Square, Woonsocket, RI
Nancy Sylvestre, East Thompson, CT
Sue Tessier MacKenzie,
Seasonal Sweets
289 Summer Street, Woonsocket, RI
42 South Main Street, Garden Level Around Back, Woonsocket, RI
200 Woonsocket Hill Road, North Smithfield, RI
A SHORT HISTORY OF MARDI GRAS
Many of the traditions of Mardi Gras have their roots in a Roman
festival called the Saturnalia which celebrated the end of
winter and the coming of spring. Over time, and with the spread
of Christianity, the festival became a final binge of feasting
and self-indulgence before the sacrifice of Lent. In 17th century
Paris, the celebration came to be known as Mardi Gras, or Fat
Tuesday – a way for Christians to fatten up before the
long Lenten season.
French settlers brought their traditions to Louisiana in 1766.
By 1857, New Orleans began to develop its own traditions of
masked balls, organized parades, and “throws” (favors
such as beads, doubloons, and cups thrown from parade floats).
In 1872, the King of Mardi Gras selected the celebration’s
official colors of purple, green, and gold. The colors’ meanings
were defined as justice (purple), faith (green), and power
(gold) in 1892.
In 1954, the Mardi Gras tradition was started in Woonsocket by
the Junior Chamber of Commerce. The four days of festivities
earned the celebration the title of “Mardi Gras of the
North.” The Jaycees’ involvement in Mardi Gras
gave our king his name – King Jace.
Since 1995, the NRICA and the Mardi Gras Committee, with the invaluable help of our sponsors, have worked hard to bring the authentic feel and the fun of a traditional Mardi Gras celebration to Woonsocket.