Downtown Shreveport Unlimited, downtown’s ‘quality of life’ organization responsible for Mudbug Madness and Brew, has announced a new executive director. Mary Helen Marrs will be replacing long-time DSU chief Melanie Bacon, who is retiring after 21 years. “Mary Helen possesses all the qualities necessary to make a seamless transition and to carry DSU into the 21st century,” said Bacon. Mary Helen’s background is in trade show management and financial planning. She will manage and coordinate the Mudbug Madness Festival, DSU’s signature event, along with other projects like BREW and raising funds for improving Festival Plaza. 
Mary Helen is a Shreveport native, graduated from Byrd High School and then the College of Charleston. After college, Mary Helen worked abroad and out of state until 2011 when she returned to start a family. Mary Helen and her husband, Brandon, have three very active sons that keep them busy. “I am so excited about the possibilities and potential for the future of Downtown Shreveport Unlimited and downtown Shreveport and am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve an organization that makes a positive impact on our city,” said Marrs.
