CHARLESTON, S.C., Dec. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Krewe of Charleston, which organizes the Charleston Mardi Gras celebration each year, has chosen Joseph "Joe" Fred Rice as its King and Lisa Summer Rice as its Queen, to reign for one year starting February 2014. The Rices were chosen for their commitment and contributions to many people and communities locally and throughout the country and Joe Rice's work as a plaintiffs' lawyer and successes as a Charleston businessman.

The reign of Charles II and Catherine, MMXIV will begin at the 5th Anniversary Charleston Mardi Gras Royal Coronation and Masquerade Ball, set for Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014, at the Charleston Area Convention Center in North Charleston.

"Spending a great deal of time in New Orleans the past several years has given me the opportunity to learn and greatly respect the people and their resilient nature.  They have faced numerous natural disasters and the worst environmental man-made disaster our country has seen.  Instead of giving up, they stand together, build hope, and help one another," said Joe Rice.

"While we cannot replicate their unique culture, I am pleased to help share with Charleston some of the Louisiana spirit I've been fortunate to experience," added Rice.

Proceeds from the "Taste the Art of Louisiana" art exhibit featuring works of art by Cajun artists and the "Fais Do Do" concert (pronounced "doe doe") will benefit the Dee Norton Lowcountry Children's Center and the New Orleans Child Advocacy Center.

Each fall, the King is chosen by the Krewe of Charleston members and is an active member of the community and positive reflection of the great City of Charleston.

"We are honored to welcome Joe and Lisa Rice for the upcoming Mardi Gras season," said Donnie Bulliard, captain of the Krewe of Charleston. "Together they have done so much for the Lowcountry and beyond. We couldn't be more honored to have them represent our great city!"

Reigning King Robert Edward "Teddy" Turner will relinquish the Royal Scepter and welcome the new Royal Court of Charleston at the Royal Announcement Party, open to members and guests of the Krewe of Charleston, on Friday, Jan. 10, 2014, at Harborside East in Mount Pleasant, S.C.

The Krewe of Charleston was established in 2009 and honors Charles II, Founder of Charles Towne, as its namesake. Past Krewe of Charleston royalty has included:

• Maj.Gen. James E. Livingston USMC (Ret) — Grande Marshall
• Tom Berenger — Grande Duke
• John Marshall McAvoy — King Charles II
• Jennifer Sullivan Sanford — Queen Catherine
• Joya Darby Wolf — Queen Catherine
• Susan Marlowe — Queen Catherine

The Charleston Mardi Gras MMXIV celebration is scheduled for Feb. 3 - 9, 2014. Events include the "Taste the Art of Louisiana" art exhibit; the popular Royal Bal Masque, a Mardi Gras masquerade ball with traditional Cajun food and fun; and the Grand Finale, an all-day Cajun Food Festival, Parade and "Fais Do Do" Concert  featuring Rockin' Dopsie and the Zydeco Twisters.

For the complete schedule of events and details visit: http://www.charlestonmardigras.com

About Joe and Lisa Rice

Born and raised in N.C., Joe made his way to Columbia, S.C. and graduated from the University of South Carolina and its Law School. Lisa, a native of Newberry, S.C., also attended the University of South Carolina where they met.  They resided in Barnwell, S.C. before moving to Mt. Pleasant, S.C. where they reside today. Joe is the co-founding member of Motley Rice LLC.

After teaching government and economics for many years at Blackville Hilda High School, Lisa made a name for herself in the Charleston community for her gracious philanthropic efforts, including her involvement and dedication with the Dee Norton Lowcountry Children's Center. In 2011, Lisa was honored with the National Children's Alliance's Volunteer Leadership Individual Award for serving as an advocate for children through her creativity, volunteerism and ongoing support, including the creation of an endowment at the Dee Norton Lowcountry Children's Center.  She is also actively involved with MUSC Children's Hospital.

About The Krewe of Charleston & Charleston Mardi Gras

Celebrating its 5th anniversary, the Krewe of Charleston was formed to promote the joy and merriment of Mardi Gras in the Charleston area. The Krewe organizes and produces the events of Charleston Mardi Gras — the East Coast's only official Mardi Gras celebration — including the popular Grande Masquerade Ball.

View the press release online: http://www.charlestonmardigras.com/pr-royalty-2014

Charleston Mardi Gras Media Contact:
Abigail Stock
843.817.5540
media@charlestonmardigras.com

SOURCE Charleston Mardi Gras