The Krewe of Gemini turned up the heat and the pageantry on Saturday, July 19, with its Rio Royal Coronation, hosted at Live! Casino and Resort. The event marked the official crowning of Gemini XXXVII royalty, celebrating a new season of Mardi Gras under the dazzling theme “The Greatest Show.”
This sold-out event was the highest attended coronation in the Krewe’s history, with an unforgettable crowd that filled the venue with energy. The evening, emceed by KTBS’s own Taylor Gibson, began with singing of the national anthem by acclaimed country music artist Trini Triggs. Guests enjoyed a lively silent auction, an elegant dinner, and Rio-inspired décor and performers that brought the theme to life. Karen Baker was awarded the prestigious Dave Michaels Award for service to the Krewe. The much-anticipated royal court presentation then unfolded, filling the ballroom with cheers, confetti, and the true spirit of Mardi Gras. In a surprise moment, Woodlawn High School’s Baby Jukebox Marching Band made a grand entrance escorting King and Queen Gemini XXXVII into the ballroom.
The Gemini XXXVII Royal Court includes:
❖ King Gemini XXXVII Sam Cooksey
❖ Queen Gemini XXXVII Bernadette Bitting
❖ Duke of Arkansas James Patterson
❖ Duchess of Arkansas Sandy Putman
❖ Duke of Louisiana Dr. John Reeves
❖ Duchess of Louisiana Amanda Waddell
❖ Duke of Texas Geoffrey Karl Perego
❖ Duchess of Texas Kristie Sheffield
❖ Princes of Gemini Jackson Falls, Braxton Holsapple, Brayden Holsapple
❖ Princesses of Gemini Anna Claire Kisner, Avery Elise Shaw, and Sophie Elise Shaw
After the formal presentation, guests hit the dance floor for a night of dancing and celebration that continued well into the evening, led by Hot Boy Yoshi. The silent auction was a tremendous success, with generous bids supporting the Krewe’s year-round community initiatives.
“This coronation wasn’t just a party, it was a kickoff to what’s shaping up to be our most spectacular season yet,” said Captain Cole Guthrie. “We’re so proud to welcome our new royals and can’t wait for the community to see what’s in store.”