News release Public Information Office   SLU 10880   Hammond, LA 70402   phone: 985-549-2341   fax: 985-549-2061 publicinfo@selu.edu     www.selu.edu/news Contact: Christina Chapple Date: 2/19/03   KREWE COMING THROUGH HAMMOND FEBRUARY 27       HAMMOND  -- Hammond’s Krewe of Omega Mardi Gras parade, which was founded by a Southeastern Louisiana University fraternity, will wind through the city from the university   and back again on Thursday, February 27.       Parading under the theme “Reflections of the past,” the carnival caravan will be led by Southeastern football players, the university’s Lionettes dance team and Lions head football coach  Hal Mumme and his wife, June.       “This is the first time a Southeastern representative has served as Grand Marshall,” said Joyce Smith, Omega’s captain. Mumme is reviving Southeastern football program, which last played in the university’s Strawberry Stadium in 1985. Formerly, he was head coach at the University of Kentucky, where he led the Wildcats to back-to-back bowl berths.       Smith said the parade will line up at the University Center and begin its trek at 6 p.m. In addition to 11 professional floats, Omega also will include a prince and princess float, many local entries, high school bands, community dance groups and a contingent of Shriners.       Smith said krewe members’ “tons of beautiful beads” will include the Omega’s own  medallion beads featuring mascot “Aligraw,” and 2003 theme cups.       The parade will begin and end at the University Center. The route will take it down General Pershing to Dakota, right on Railroad Ave., left on Charles, right on North Cherry, right on East Thomas, right on Magnolia, right on Dakota, left on North Oak, left on University Ave.        Prior to Thursday night’s parade, the Krewe of Omega will trek from the north to the south end of Tangipahoa Parish, honoring each city and toasting each mayor. The krewe will also perform a halftime “second line” during the Sweet 16 girls state basketball tournament. The performance will take place at 6:30 p.m. on March 3. Return to News Releases