85th Paper Queen Crowned in Bogalusa’s Beloved Tradition

Published 12:00 pm Wednesday, July 2, 2025

THE DAILY NEWS

The red, white, and blue spirit of Bogalusa is shining brighter this year with the crowning of the 85th Paper Queen, Shelbylee Carney. A rising senior at Bowling Green School and daughter of Cody and Meagan Carney, Shelbylee is honored to wear the crown that once belonged to her aunt, Kristy Carney, the 2004 Paper Queen.

“This is something I’ve always wanted to do,” Shelbylee shared. “It’s a dream come true.” Her reign will take her across Louisiana and beyond, including a standout opportunity to represent Bogalusa at the Mystick Krewe of Louisianians’ Mardi Gras celebration in Washington, D.C., a cherished tradition now in its 77th year.

The 2025 Paper Queen Court also includes:

• Miss Dixie: Wren Breazeale, daughter of James and Jill Breazeale, a Fountainbleau High School graduate who will attend LSU. Wren fondly remembers her early days in the pageant world, serving as the Crown Bearer in 2012.

• Sweetheart of the Legion: Maddie Willis, daughter of Joey and Robyn Willis, and student at Ben’s Ford Christian School.

• Honor Court Members:

Abbigail Carrier, daughter of Nicholas and Ashley Carrier, representing Varnado High School.

Cadence Dyess, daughter of Mark and Bridget Dyess, attending Ben’s Ford Christian School.

Sponsored by American Legion Post 24, the Paper Queen Pageant is the second-oldest fair and festival pageant in Louisiana, dating back to 1939. More than just a title, the competition is a fundraiser that supports local projects such as Bogalusa’s Fourth of July celebration, maintenance of the Willis Avenue American flag, and direct assistance to veterans and their families.

Candidates, who must be rising juniors or seniors from Washington Parish with at least a 2.0 GPA, compete by collecting community donations. Scholarships are awarded based on placement with the Paper Queen receving $1,500, Miss Dixie  $1,000, Sweetheart of the Legion  $750 and Honor Court Members receive $250 each.

In addition to scholarship awards, each member of the court receives gifts from American Legion Post 24 and the Paper Queen Committee.

As the newly crowned Paper Queen, Shelbylee and court will lead Bogalusa’s annual Fourth of July parade, kicking off at 10 a.m. on Columbia Street and ending behind Bogalusa High School. Parade participants, including those with antique vehicles and motorcycles, are encouraged to line up near The First Bank by 9:30 a.m. on Friday, July 4. No entry fee is required, and everyone is welcome to join in the patriotic fun.

Later in the evening, a spectacular fireworks show will light up the sky from the east side of the Bogalusa High School stadium, offering a fitting end to a day of celebration, community, and pride.

Commemorative Fourth of July t-shirts are available for $15 through American Legion Post 24. All proceeds benefit local events and initiatives supported by the Legion.

For t-shirt purchases or parade information, contact American Legion Post 24 and be part of a Bogalusa tradition that continues to celebrate youth, service, and hometown pride.