Mardi Gras’ first Hispanic King.

The Original Krewe of Orpheus announced that Otto Cesar Mehrgut as its 2007 Mardi Gras King. This 20th year celebration of the Krewe also marks the first ever Hispanic King crowned in Mardi Gras history.

As a member of the Original Krewe of Orpheus, Mehrgut has been a lieutenant for four years, working tirelessly to increase Krewe membership and the crowd appeal of its floats.

The Cuban-born Mehrgut immigrated to the United States in 1966 and has resided in the New Orleans area ever since. With his wife Diane of 25 years, The Mehrguts are the proud parents of Jennifer (24), Kristin (21), and Brandon (19). The family has lived in Mandeville since 1992.

A graduate of Archbishop Rummel High School (1973) and the University of New Orleans (1978), Mehrgut currently works as President of Profit-On-Hold, a successful New Orleans-based on-hold marketing and advertising firm. As a minority businessman, Mr. Mehrgut’s organization focuses on strengthening New Orleans’ minority and Hispanic business community.

He is also actively involved in the community by serving on the board of directors of St. Paul’s High School Renaissance Board. He is past Chairman of the International On-Hold Messaging Association, and currently serves as Secretary-Treasurer. Mr. Mehrgut is President of the Meadowbrook Homeowners Association and is a member of the Louisiana Minority Business Council (LAMBC).