Royal news

Times Photo by Paul L. Schuetze

Gemini Queen XIX Sally Graff and King Dr. Tobin Grigsby and Captain Ed Hoover lift their chalices in a toast at the Krewe of Gemini Coronation and Silent Auction.

The black-tie op event was Saturday at Sam’s Town Casino & Hotel Ballroom and kicked off the 2008 season for the krewe. (August is a flurry of theme announcements and coronations.)

Dr. Bob Robinson was the master of ceremonies for the glittery event.

Other members of the court: Duke and Duchess of Arkansas, Dr. Ray Coghlan and Karen McDonald; Louisiana Jerry Talley and Martha Rennie; and Texas Greg Shaw and Patti Shaw; Princes: Walker K. Gamble, Daniel C. Stoll, Charles "Chad" Robertson Princesses: Whitney Rich and Lindsey Elizabeth Anderson.

Court notes: Whitney Rich regretted because she was in Paris. She is serving as a student ambassador in the People to People Program in Europe ... Patti Shaw once worked for the White House in Barbara Bush’s press office and is former secretary to Jackie Sherrill, head coach of the Texas A&M football team during its reign as SWC champs and numerous Cotton Bowl wins. (Remember when, Aggies?)