Since moving to Bogalusa in August, there has been a constant chorus in my ear from anyone who will talk to me:

“Wait until you see our Mardi Gras parade, there’s nothing like it!”

“You haven’t seen MCCA yet? You’re in for a treat!”

“This parade is going to blow your mind!”

Well, my wait is almost over. As I write this column Friday afternoon, I haven’t yet seen Saturday’s MCCA parade, but it won’t be long now. Although I haven’t watched the event with my own eyes, I have looked at thousands of photos from previous parades, and even watched a few video clips. But, of course, I’m sure all of that will pale once I experience the real thing.

I have enjoyed following the growing excitement in the city as the big day gets closer. Both King James Dunaway and Queen Linda Slade have been very helpful and kind anytime I’ve had to interview them or take their photos. And I can’t say enough about how cooperative Captain Don Spiers has been in helping get us the information we need to tell this unique story of our community once again.

Also, Police Chief Joe Culpepper has done a fabulous job of providing photographs at the MCCA events that we weren’t able to attend ourselves. I just want to thank him for all he has done to help us with coverage.

When I was growing up in Alabama in a Catholic family, Mardi Gras was just the last day before the start of Lent. Other than maybe the occasional purple and green decoration or the random mask or beads strand, there wasn’t much visible celebration.

But since coming here, I can’t help but get caught up in the party atmosphere. I’m starting to wonder how I ever lived without it. I know that my parents and friends in other states are jealous when I send them photos, and I’m sure they’ll be even more envious when I share my MCCA shots tomorrow.

Laissez les bon temps rouler!

Justin Schuver is the publisher and editor of The Daily News.