Carleen & James Smith

When asked why this couple has been selected, we can only try and capture in a nut shell what these two do to make it all happen.

The Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival proudly salutes "The Smiths"

They're involvement in the Festival has had a tremendous impact on what we are now doing.

The Boat Parade has grown leaps & Bounds within the last few years. However, James is quick to say that he had a good foundation, giving credit to Soc and Pat Grisaffe for persevering in establishing this event. We now have 158 boats participating. We challenged him early on to have boats stacked up all the way to Iberia Sugar Cooperative. He just may reach his goal this year. It is an event that has become a favorite amongst the crowds.

During the Boat extravaganza, we have a light/firework display behind City Hall. When he jumps off the boat on Friday, you can find him on the Street lining up the Children's Parade, and then on Sunday, attending mass in recognition of the Sugar Industry The Louisiana Sugar Festival and our Sugar Royalty. Then off to the Louisiana Sugar Parade, we need to line up again.

During this time you, will see Carleen, Official Chaperon, assisting the Parish Queens onto the boats so that they can enjoy the cruise. Of course she is climbing in the boat right along side them to make certain all of their needs are taken care of. After the parade you will see her swish the girls off to the Harvest Celebration where they will meet judges of Queen Sugar for the first time.

On Saturday, after night one of chaperoning, she escorts the girls to the Queens Coffee, official interview, luncheon, meets the visiting queens, makes certain all are at sweet stuff party and then to rehearsal. Then of course there is the great moment of the Coronation and who is Queen Sugar. Then Chaperon and get ready for Sunday Service and then the finale, making certain everyone is ready for the Louisiana Sugar Parade.... where she will meet up with James and he will assist in placement of girls on the correct float.

We must mention their daughter Shawntel who provides entertainment, singing songs that warm the heart throughout the Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival. She is also at Best Western, festival headquarters, assisting in Festival gift Shop

Wow!