The Phoenix, our Royal Representative, epitomizes the ideals of the Mystical Order of the Phoenix through her grace, spirit, generosity and love of Mardi Gras. The Phoenix reigns for one year, then is reborn for another Carnival season.

Phoenix I Gemelle Martin Linzy

 

Mrs. Linzy ascended as Phoenix I in November of 2020, 6 months after the Mystical Order of the Phoenix was founded! Due to the cancellation of Mardi Gras Parades in 2021, Mrs. Linzy rode in the Spartan Society Parade in 2022 alongside Phoenix II.

Mrs. Linzy is no stranger to ‘firsts!’  She also has the distinction of being ‘Diana’ I.  She is thrilled to have ushered in a new era of Mardi Gras as the Royal Representative of the new Mystical Order of the Phoenix.

She is the owner of Martin Insurance Agency and proud spouse of the late William James Linzy.  She has three children, Gemelle Saak, Robert Saak and Matthew Garvin.

Mrs. Linzy is an ardent Mardi Gras supporter and says she loves to see the look of joy on the faces of the crowds as she rolls and showers parade-goers with throws.  She believes Mardi Gras is about bringing happiness to people of all walks of life and that no other city does it like New Orleans!

 

 

 

Mystical Order of the Phoenix

Phoenix II Carolynn “Lynn” Precup Isbell

 

 

Lynn loves the sights, sounds, and flavors of New Orleans and Mardi Gras.  As she traveled the country teaching federal employees, she always left them with a piece of our Mardi Gras traditions.  She began her reign as Phoenix II in November of 2021 and rode in the 2022 Spartan Society Parade along with Phoenix I.

Lynn graduated from Loyola University New Orleans with her Bachelor’s in Religious Studies and a double masters – one in Pastoral Studies and a Master of Science in Counseling.  After three careers – a musician, a teacher, and a federal employee.  Lynn is now the president of Lynn Isbell Consulting, specializing in HR data analytics and professional development/coaching, a certified John Maxwell team member.  Lynn is also a trained Labyrinth facilitator and truly enjoys guiding others in this walking
meditation.

Lynn has two daughters, Erin and Laura, their men, James and Henry, 8 grandchildren (5 boys and 3 girls) and two puppies, Sadie and Ziggy and is extremely proud of every one of them. She is also grateful to have her mother, Corinne, sharing in her
excitement.

Lynn is deeply honored to serve as your Phoenix II. Hail YOU!

Phoenix III Shelby Elizabeth Saak

 

Miss Saak is the daughter of Robert and Shelly Saak and the sister of Sara and Jacob Saak. She is New Orleans native and is thrilled to follow in the footsteps of her grandmother and aunt who were also Mardi Gras royalty.

She is a proud Service & Engagement Executive Team Lead for the largest Target store in the company, located in Lafayette, Louisiana. She is also an alumnus of Mount Carmel Academy, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. Growing up she played soccer for Louisiana Fire since she was 8, and even was able to represent Louisiana in the National tournament where she and her team placed third.

While in college she served as the President of Habitat for Humanity, Chief Justice of the Student Government Association, Student Mentor for SOUL Camp, Secretary for the Arabic Culture Club and Model Arab League, and as the Vice President of Judiciary for the UL Panhellenic Executive Council.

Miss Saak’s favorite time of the year is Mardi Gras. She enjoys any reason to connect with friends and family and is very proud to be able to represent as Phoenix III.

Phoenix IV Carmelitta Maria Gordon Favorite

 

Carmelitta Maria Gordon Favorite, is so very proud to represent the Mystical Order of the Phoenix as Phoenix IV!  Carmelitta is a lifelong New Orleanian who was born for Mardi Gras!  In fact, she was almost born on the parade route, so you might say it’s in her blood. 

She attended Xavier Preparatory High School where she served as Captain of the Majorettes and the Modern Dance Team.  She received a degree in Microbiology from Louisiana Tech University where she also danced in productions with the African American Students Club! She has spent the last 43-years in various areas of the Healthcare Industry.  She is currently a licensed Medicare insurance producer.

Carmelitta has received honors for Top Producer and the President’s Club with Humana Inc, and has also been honored as a VIP member of Biltmore Who’s Who Registry of Executives and Professionals.

Our Phoenix IV is a lover of dance, music, travel, her baby mini schnauzer ‘Izzy’ and of course, Mardi Gras!  Reigning as Phoenix IV is a double milestone for Carmelitta as she is celebrating her 65th Birthday!  She is extremely honored to reign as Phoenix IV representing the inclusive and vibrant Mystical Order of the Phoenix and is looking forward to an amazing reign and ride!

Are you ready to RISE? We are currently taking applications for Phoenix VII for the 2027 parade. If interested, contact the Phoenix coordinator Gigi Saak at gigi@mootp.org