The Mardi Gras Foundation was established for two reasons: it is designed to support Mardi Gras Inc. in the production of a safe Mardi Gras events in St. Louis and to create a neighborhood grant fund for community improvements.
The board includes involved neighborhood individuals, business owners, and community leaders.
Mack Bradley, President
Mack is the principal of StandPoint Public Affairs. He has been a Soulard Mardi Gras volunteer since 1999 and MGF board member since 2002.
Jay Dinkelman, Treasurer
Jay is a long-time resident of Soulard and is an active member of the Soulard Restoration Group.
Stacy Hastie
Stacy is CEO of Soulard-based business, Environmental Operations, Inc.
Lisa Otke
Lisa is a long-time Soulard resident and a member of the Soulard Restoration Group.
Sal Martinez
Sal is Executive Director of the North Newstead Association. Sal has held leadership positions with the Grand Rock Community Economic Development Corporation, the St. Louis Housing Authority, the Vashon/Jeff-Vander-Lou Initiative, Community Renewal and Development, and the Minority Contractor Initiative.
Doug Dean, Secretary
Doug is the GM of the Hyatt Magnificent Mile in Chicago. His efforts have been critical in helping us understand the tourism aspects of Soulard St. Louis Mardi Gras.
Todd George
Todd is an active member of the Soulard community and Soulard Business Association. He is the owner of EPIC Pizza and Subs in Soulard.
Mary Ellen Ponder
Mary Ellen Ponder is a senior member of the First Rule, LLC, team, where she brings extensive experience in government and community relations, political campaigns and grassroots management. Ponder Aldo serves on the boards of the Missouri Historical Society and Saint Vincent’s Home for Children.