Festival queen's farewell: 'An experience like no other'

(Editor's note: The Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival submitted this letter of farewell from 2023 festival queen Gweneth Dohmann. Her successor will be crowned Saturday.)

First off, I would like to express my thanks to the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival board for selecting me as their 88th queen. I am deeply honored and will forever cherish being chosen as the 88th Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum queen, especially to festival Executive Director Hailee Thomas for sharing her time, artistic abilities, and love for the festival with me.
This is an incredible privilege, and I am proud to represent such a significant tradition. Morgan City, with its rich heritage and strong community spirit, has always been close to my heart.
This title has given me a duty to share the importance of the shrimping and petroleum industries of our town.
A year ago, I was so excited to be a maid in such an amazing festival, but I never thought queen would have been in my future. But whenever I was awarded this title it all became clear to me that believing in myself was the first step forward.
I’ve picked strawberries in Ponchatoula, eaten gumbo in Bridge City, milked a cow in Abbeville, gone crawfishing in Breaux Bridge, shopped at local farmers markets, rode on an airboat, and so much more.
The highlight of my year was visiting our nation’s capital, which was full of history, politics, and culture. It’s home to iconic landmarks such as the U.S. Capitol, the White House, and the Lincoln Memorial.
While visiting Washington, D.C., I was honored to be a part of the Mystic Krewe of Louisianians 75th Washington Mardi Gras Ball court with Drew Brees, the retired NFL Saints quarterback, as king.
During my travels, I have seen firsthand how Louisiana’s industries support countless families and communities. These traditions not only sustain livelihoods but also bring people together in celebration year after year.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience has been the opportunity to inspire and connect with many young women across the state. These young women have also inspired me not just as a festival queen but as a woman navigating in this world.
Being given the chance to showcase our town’s unique blend of shrimping and petroleum industries has been an honor beyond words. Being chosen as an ambassador for our state festival is an experience like no other. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me develop confidence and communication skills that I never knew I had.
Representing such a rich tradition has taught me the importance of pride in our heritage and the value of connecting with people from all walks of life.
This journey has truly changed me for the better. Any and every girl should seize this opportunity if they get a chance, for it will open new doors of experiences, friendships, and a deeper understanding of our state’s rich heritage.
Finally, I want to thank God for keeping me safe during all of my travels and bringing wonderful people, places, and experiences into my life.
I’m truly excited to see who will next affirm that we, Morgan City, are shrimply the best at what we do!
Forever and always,
Queen 88
Gweneth Alaina Dohmann