Sequined artwork with the words "NEW BACCHUS IVAN" in colorful glittering letters, featuring purple, green, gold, and silver colors.

Revamping the Krewe of Bacchus


By Forest Riggs

Three cheers for the Galveston Krewe of Bacchus! Like the legendary Phoenix, the Krewe is rising from the ashes and planning to fly high again.

Over the years, there has been several “incarnations†of the Krewe of Bacchus and once again, the festive island institution is re-grouping, re-forming and developing their long-overdue “polishing†in an attempt to become a huge contender among Mardi Gras Krewes on the Island.

For years, the Krewe of Momus and the Krewe of Gambrinus have been ever-present in terms of parades, balls, parties and fundraisers. Finally emerging from the doldrums and burdens of a somewhat low membership, decreased participation and insufficient funding, the “re-born†Krewe of Bacchus is hoping to evolve into yet another major Galveston Island Krewe.

“I want this Krewe to be for everyone, especially the LGBTQ community here in Galveston,†says Clay Vinson, the new president for the Krewe of Bacchus on Galveston Island. “The community here is made up of a diverse group of LGBTQ folks and those that support them. We want to represent when it comes to island celebrations and events where we can be seen.â€

After some hesitation and trepidation, Vinson accepted the role as president of the struggling organization.

“This can, and will happen,†Vinson emphatically states. “This Krewe can be successful and over time become a great asset for Galveston and LGBTQ community here.â€

Along with secretary/treasurer Emily Flowers and numerous longtime Krewe originators, advisors and leaders, the new effort to re-boot the Krewe is taking shape.

“Because of illness and family care needs, the membership over the past few years has declined, but we are strong and ready to grow,†says Vinson.

Vinson, at first nervous about taking on the leadership role, has steadily found his groove, talked with those in the know, and listened when new and old members contributed ideas and suggestions for the forward direction of the Krewe.

“It has been a little difficult,†he says. “You have people that participate, ride the floats, throw the beads, etc. However they are not really engaged to the point of giving positive and constructive energy towards shaping, guiding and further developing the Krewe.â€

Vinson and Flowers both want the membership to increase and develop into a very active group on the Island. In meetings they have planned and worked on more structure within the Krewe, as well as ideas for more visibility on the Island.

“The Krewe should be fun and filled with positive energy,†says Vinson.

It is no secret on the Island that, in the past, the Krewe had some problems but, as the new president states, “That is the past. We are going forward with positive and dedicated members. That is what it takes.â€

The Krewe meets once a month on the second Sunday (locations vary) and although the membership has dwindled to a small number of dedicated participants, Vinson and Flowers hope that this new “rising from the ashes†will get more folks involved and grow the number of active members.

“Everyone wants to ride in the parades and have the fun, but we want members that want to work and work hard at improving the Krewe. It is way more than a $50 membership fee a ticket to ride on floats,†Vinson says. “I want members that will step up, take on the responsibility of the various committees throughout the year, not just at Mardi Gras time. There is a lot to be done behind the scenes. This is a social organization and we need to make it fun.â€

Fun, it is, for those that participate. Currently the Krewe, with its colorful floats (which always need help in preparing and maintaining), participates in several of the numerous Mardi Gras parades, ending on the night of Fat Tuesday. Then there are fundraisers, the next of which will be on Sunday, October 7, at 23 Street Station Piano Bar. The event will include a membership drive, silent auction, raffles, gift baskets, great food and “other surprises.â€

The officers of the Krewe hope friends and supporters from the Houston area will pitch in and perhaps donate to the silent auctions or raffle items.

“Hotel stays, restaurant meals, gift certificates — these are the things we need to make the fundraiser work,†says Vinson.

The Krewe has plans for huge party around Mardi Gras time, and has successfully participated in the Galveston Pride Beach Party. As yet, there are no plans for a Ball, as the Krewe is at this point small and re-defining itself, but the party and presentation of a new King and Queen will be a fun-filled affair. Flowers, also the current Queen, looks forward to seeing the Krewe grow and representing the organization any time she can.

There are many ways to get involved with the Galveston Krewe of Bacchus and become part of something fun and great. This Krewe welcomes all to join and come along for the fun.

“The floats fill early and no one, especially last minute callers and joiners likes to be told there is no more room on the floats,†Vinson says.

Becoming a member of the Krewe and actively participating is a sure way to meet new friends, become part of a community and develop some civic pride. The president hopes Houston folks, wanting to participate in Krewe, especially riding in parades, will consider becoming a member and share in the fun. In a Krewe such as Bacchus, there is something for everyone. It is early, but the big event, Mardi Gras, will creep up fast. Laissez les bon temps rouler!

For more information on Galveston Krewe of Bacchus events and membership, please log on to Facebook: Krewe of Bacchus Texas, or write to P.O. Box 3381, Galveston, TX 77552.

Forest Riggs, a resident of Galveston, is no stranger to the adventures of life. A former educator and business owner, he enjoys Island life and all that comes with it. He says he is a “raconteur with a Quixotic, gypsy spirit.†He has written for several newspapers and magazines as well as other writing pursuits, including a novel and collection of short stories.

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