Reign I

Emperor I

The Columbine Emperor

Terry Peters

Empress I 

The Columbine Empress

Denvers First Annual Cotillion Ball, held on April 20, 1974 was the beginning of ICRME. Held in a VFW Hall, it had a rocky beginning with unnamed persons protesting the use of the word cotillion and the titles of Emperor and Empress.

Despite the protestations, a panel of judges selected Phil Brands and Bridgette Peters as the First Emperor and Empress of Colorado.

The reign was still new when the elected Emperor was replaced by Emperor Regent Terry Peters.

The first reign was a time of experimentation, a time of trial and error, and a time of learning. Bridgette and Terry represented the city at a host of functions and fundraisers.

 Years of living has worked their magic, and many of the memories of that first reign have simply faded into the sands of time.

What we do remember and have to share and cherish are the titles awarded: Princess Royale was Lola, later named as the First Queen Mother; Imperial Princesses for the First Reign were Dolly, Rusty, Causha Lee Victoria and Desiree. On the Emperors side, the First Prince Royale was Rick Chamberland.

The first reign also recognized those who had been instrumental in helping set up the organization and aided in the execution of the duties that were so new. Bridgette wisely chose one of Denvers hardest working Individuals and awarded the permanent title of Mother of the Realm for life to Michael (Mother) Procopio.

The end of this first reign was held as a wonderful celebration. Emperor Regent, Terry Peters was awarded the permanent title of Emperor I, and on April 26, 1975 at the Hilton Hotel Grand Ballroom, Denvers first true Coronation Ball, Love Around the World was held.