Blue Max, St. Louis February 2003

The theme of the Blue Max 28th anniversary run was "Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves", making it a perfect fit with the piratical character of Trident Windy City. The downriver expedition was made up of Swen, Joe, Tom, rob and Larry, the Cub of Plunder, who lived up to his name on numerous occasions - well done! The hotel had lovely views of the Arch and the snowstorm that came through Friday night. Saturday, buses were provided to take us to the Soulard neighborhood for St. Louis Mardi Gras parade (third largest in the nation) was held featuring over 100 floats. Crowd watching was almost as much fun as grabbing beads out of puddles. Our formal dress of white shirts, vests and Trident medallions was a big hit at the evening banquet. Later that night, Trident hosted a cocktail party in the back room of JJ's home bar to both Gateway and Blue Max, in full pirate regalia. The eye patches and hooks were interesting to wear, and the chorus of "Arrrgh" was loud enough to be heard over the music and the crowd. Captain Swen and Company served our patented Pirate Punch with verve managing to use up every drop! The general reaction to the costumes and party was "Oh my grief, they've done it again." At Sunday Brunch, Swen promoted Neptune 1 in pirate gear and from the way the flyers disappeared, a lot of guests will be appearing on our doorstep in July. We received an award for our cocktail party. Our next stop, across the mountains to Nashville for the Conductors run and the MACC meeting -let the pirates sail again! Arrrg!
(submitted by Iron Roger Read AKA Rob)