story and photos by Mark Benton
(Photo Above) Growlers bar on Poplar Avenue played host to the Mystic Krewe’s recent fundraiser ‘Tea Dance.’ The group raised $1500 for their efforts, 100% of which will go to charity. Party goers included (from left) Coco Flores, Imagene Azengraber, Christian “Cashmere” Assandria, Moth Moth Moth, and Katie Amor.
Brandon Leslie is the current King of Pegasus. Focus Mid- South spoke with him recently about the group’s charitable fundraisers.
Is Pegasus excited about all the energy this charitable season and your reign as King?
We are ecstatic to be working with the Metamorphosis Project this year. This is our 15th year as a Krewe, and the torch has been passed to a new generation of royalty. Queen Keleigh Klarke and myself are the youngest royalty in recent memory. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve and are vigilant in achieving our goal, finishing the Metamorphosis Project and building the only LGBTQ youth homeless shelter in the Mid- South.
(Top) Brandon Leslie, King Pegasus XIV, and Keleigh Klarke, Queen Pegasus XIV, announce the next Mystic Krewe of Pegasus Ball theme, “A Journey to the Emerald City ,” a ‘perilous and spectacular adventure into a mysterious land,’ they say. Ruby slippers are recommended. (Right) Pegasus works year round to raise money for community projects. The Big Gay Pool Party is a fundraising event to raise money for OutMemphis’ Metamorphosis Project. housing that will be created from shipping containers for homeless LGBTQ youth.
Seems like the Krewe is on its way to a record breaking year in its fundraising? Gosh, how many events are you expecting to pull off this year?
We will hold as many events, public spectacles and private gatherings, parties, auctions, raffles, bingos, bake sales, chili cookoffs, dog and pony shows, or drag queen jello-wrestling tournaments as is necessary to achieve our goal of eliminating LGBTQ youth homelessness in the Mid-South. Lol.
But seriously, we hold at least one event a month, but we usually exceed that number. We have our Kabaret with the Krewe show Sat, June 10 at Overton Chapel on East Parkway, and our annual trivia tournament, “Nerds in the Afternoon”, at Growlers on July 16. But I’m sure we’ll be doing other events before then as the plans develop. Our Facebook page and website has more details. http://www.pegasusmemphis.org/
How much may I ask was raised with the Big Gay Pool Party and the Tea Dance at GROWLERS?
We raised $2,000 at the Big Gay Pool Party and $1,500 at the Tea Dance. 100% of the proceeds go to the charity.
Of course it takes money to raise money. Any pointers out there for others who are into organizational philanthropy?
Sponsors. Whether it’s a local church, group of friends, locally owned business, or other organizations, sponsorship is key. If you can get someone to supply food, beverages, or venue, that’s half the battle. Eliminate overhead, keep admission affordable, offer your donors something new and fresh.
Brandon, you and your spouse were magnificent hosts at the Big Gay Pool Party. What does it mean to the two you and to be part of the Mystic Krewe of Pegasus?
Oh, thank you. We moved to Memphis four years ago and didn’t know a single person. The first night we went to the Pumping Station, a Krewe member invited us to an event. Not knowing anyone or having any friends in town, we decided to go.
We had a blast. Met so many nice folks that just welcomed us with open arms. They invited us to dinner and suddenly we had a circle of friends. It’s become a part of our family, and we are so grateful not only for everything the Krewe does for Memphis, but also has done for us. It’s helped make Memphis our home.
Can you tell us anything about the year end Masquerade Ball. When can we get tickets?
The 2018 Mystic Krewe of Pegasus Mardi Gras Ball will be held on Jan 27, 2018 at Minglewood Hall. Our theme this year is “Journey to the Emerald City.” We are already in the planning stages of this over-the-rainbow, over-the-top production! The theme was chosen, in part, because it ties in so well with our charity, the Metamorphosis Project. Once this shelter is built, we want every homeless LGBTQ youth to be able to say “There’s no place like home.”
Tickets will be on sale soon through our website. We are currently soliciting sponsors. If anyone is interested in helping, attending our events, becoming a member, sponsoring or donating to the Krewe, contact us on Facebook or our website, http://www.pegasusmemphis.org/.
