NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Members of a family known for building many of the lavish floats that roll through New Orleans during Carnival season have announced an end to a yearslong legal feud.
It dates back to 2010 when Blaine Kern Sr. was sued by son Barry over alleged lavish spending at the behest of his fourth wife and mismanagement of the company.
There was at least one temporary truce and each side had victories and reversals in court over the years.
A Friday statement from Blaine Kern Artists Inc. said that a corporate succession plan has been finalized. It said Barry Kern will continue as president and CEO of the company while Blaine Kern Sr. will, in the company's words, "continue his role as 'Mr. Mardi Gras' and international ambassador for Carnival."
"While there were some misunderstandings in the past, and regretfully things were said that should not have been, Barry and Blaine, with the help of Blaine's wife, Holly, made amends some time ago," the statement said.
"We are thrilled to move forward together as a family and a company, being a major part of staging the greatest free show on Earth, Carnival and Mardi Gras in New Orleans!" Blaine Kern Sr. and Barry Kern, said in the release.
In addition to building floats for major parade organizations in New Orleans, the Kerns also operate their Mississippi River-side warehouse, displaying their creations, as an entertainment venue.
