<html><div style='background-color:'><DIV class=RTE><STRONG>I just realized that there's probably quite a few newer folks in town that are shocked that I would describe Mardi Gras as a "family event". </STRONG></DIV>
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<DIV class=RTE><STRONG>But Moscow's Mardi Gras of 20 years ago was just that.</STRONG></DIV>
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<DIV class=RTE><STRONG>My youngest, in gradeschool at the time, was Grand Marshal of the parade in 1988 or 89. There was a look-alike contest to determine the Grand Marshal and Anthony won as PeeWee Herman (that was before PeeWee disgraced himself : ( of course!) His sister entered as TV's "Punky Brewster". In all I think there were 6 chosen to ride in a white limo in the parade. Gambino's had an entry with some of the waitstaff dressed up as "dancing fishbowls" and Punky Brewster got to ride her black and white scooter and hand out candy. We had to hurry back to Gams from the parade because we were slammed for lunch. . . everybody in town was busy because the people lined Main Street several people deep on both sides of the Judges Stand. I don't remember if that was the same year there was a TV crew from New Orleans or not.</STRONG></DIV>
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<DIV class=RTE><STRONG>PeeWee and Punky (with Dad as chaperone) attended a non alcohol venue later that evening. PeeWee was quite overcome with the number of young ladies who asked him to dance and have their picture taken together.</STRONG></DIV>
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<DIV class=RTE><STRONG>Now, isn't that a better memory than long lines of drunks going to a wet t-shirt contests and isn't that kind of activity going to bring business to the downtown?</STRONG> </DIV>
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<DIV class=RTE><STRONG>Ellen Roskovich</STRONG></DIV>
<DIV class=RTE><STRONG></STRONG> </DIV></div><br clear=all><hr> <a href="http://g.msn.com/8HMBENUS/2734??PS=47575" target="_top">With tax season right around the corner, make sure to follow these few simple tips.</a> </html>