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When Rudy Bougere was 13 years old, an uncle asked him to join a Mardi Gras Indian band. Rudy's mother told him no. But like many headstrong adolescents, Rudy didn't listen.

With his uncle's help and a lot of determination and creativity, Rudy made his first costume in his room, hiding it under the bed when his mother came near. Mardi Gras morning, at the crack of dawn, he sneaked it out his bedroom window.

Rudy Bougere has been Master Chief of the 9th Ward Hunters for more than ten years, involved in "masking Indians," as the tradition is often called, for more than 20 years. It is the central focus of his life.

"It's about creativity," he says. "Making the costume, a new one each year-you design it, pick the colors and fabric, the decorations too. Then there's the parading and dancing. When you put that costume on and get out there, you're a new person. We do benefits to get kids involved and off the streets.

Nearby, under a father's watchful eye, his five-year-old son practices sewing a rhinestone broach onto cloth stretched on a frame, one of the many steps he must maser before making his own elaborate costume. Called "Little Chief, "he has been a Mardi Gras Indian for two years already. Eventually, when Rudy retires, the "little chief" will compete with his older brother for the master chief role, continuing the tradition.

Our rich cultural heritage is a source of strength and pride for each and every one of us. The Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, and the Louisiana Press Association are pleased to present this series highlighting those who make a vital contribution.