Ellington

This year, the Sweet Potato Queens, in shiny new over-the-top outfits, sashay through Fondren in the first annual Zippity Doo Dah Parade. Boss Queen Jill Conner Browne says she has yet another first: a Larry Vrba bluebird crown.

"We do a crown every year--but this is the first one of this kind--and the bird part is actually a removable brooch," Browne said.

And that is one way to get a bluebird on your shoulder.

As part of a weekend of Sweet Potato Queen festivities, Browne will host the Queen's Raffle at the Hilton during the Pearls and PJ event. The bluebird crown is one of many items to win. Other prizes include a cruise, food baskets, a carafe and cups designed by Gail Pittman and a diamond necklace. The raffle is for registered participants in SPQ events at the Hilton. All proceeds benefit the Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children.

Larry Vrba is best known for making opulent, large and bold costume jewelry, especially brooches.