The Second Liners Mardi Gras club's parade started as a vision of the club's founder, Bettye Pollard. Being a krewe member of Zulu in New Orleans, LA for many years, Bettye cherished the fun and excitement of Mardi Gras celebrations. While watching the evening news, there was a neighborhood parade being televised. A seed was planted in Bettye Pollard's heart. Bettye thought it would be a good idea to encourage children and families to learn and participate in the traditions of Mardi Gras. In her excitement she contacted Jerry Williams to enlist his assistance in coordinating a Mardi Gras parade in the community. Bettye and Jerry rallied support from community and business leaders. The first parade became a reality the 1995 season and consisted of various community children and youth groups. Initially, the parade consisted mostly of walking groups, children riding decorated bicycles, decorated wagons and cars, children in costumes, and of course, music was provided. This was the beginning of a parade that would grow from 12 units to over 70 to include college and high school marching bands, decorated floats, Mardi Gras Indians, show horses and dancing groups. The parade ends in a block party with food and entertainment free to the public; a real community get-together. From an idea to becoming a staple in the community, "Mardi Gras with the Second Liners is still the biggest and best party around."