MCCA’s Mardi Gras celebration is unique this year, because both the 2022 King and Queen are Franklinton residents.
Johnny Passman is King, and Theresa Wascom is Queen.
MCCA rolls on its traditional route in Bogalusa on Mardi Gras Day, with spectators coming not just from Washington Parsh but from all over Southeast Louisiana and South Mississippi.
This year, Franklinton-area residents will have two extra reasons to attend the parade:
1. The King and Queen are both from Franklinton.
2. MCCA is back after not rolling in 2021 due to COVID.
For Johnny Passman and Theresa Wascom, it is exciting for them to be heading up a parade for a Krewe that is rich with tradition. MCCA has existed for 42 years, although there have only been 41 parades because of the cancelled parade in 2021.
“Without a parade in 2021 things sort of started out slowly this year,” said Passman, “but by now it is almost back to normal.”
Both he and Ms Wascom said that for them, MCCA is not just about the parties and the parade, but also about the community involvement that they are embracing as royalty this year. “MCCA has always been about the community, the parish,” said Theresa.
Passman has been in MCCA for over 30 years, and this is his first year in royalty. During his entire time in MCCA, he has been with the Magic Chaos krewe.
As the 41st King of MCCA, he has been aided in his duties by his consort, wife Nancy Passman.
“She has been my very proud Number One supporter, “ Johnny said.
He has also received strong support from his son, John R. Passman, and his grandchildren. John R. Passman is a Physician’s Assistant at the Oschner Clinic in Franklinton.
Some can remember years ago when Johnny Passman was the drum major at Franklinton High School. He went on to Pearl River Community College, and for many years was the owner of the Cavalier Shoppe in downtown Franklinton. He was also a founding member of the well-known regional band Showboat.
Today, Johnny stays busy with his land development company, in addition to his community activities.
For Queen Theresa, a Southern lady of grace and charm, she has been proudly supported by her husband, Mac Wascom, a well-known resdent of Franklinton. She has three children, and one step-child.
Theresa is a 32-year member of MCCA. She was one of the founders of the Athena Krewe. Later, she helped found the Venus Krewe, and she is currently in the GG’s Krewe.
But she is also involved in other community activities, and she feels that is important.
Theresa sums up her current busy life with a saying: “Never let your memories overshadow your dreams!”
