Sounds of children singing Christmas carols en français and of Cajun music being played on guitars, fiddles, and an accordion swept through the Evangline Parish Courthouse Tuesday as the Evangeline Parish Police Jury conducted its annual French Meeting.
The meeting began with Evangeline Parish Clerk of Court leading the opening prayers and with French Immersion students from Mamou and Ville Platte Elementary Schools leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Basile attorney Dave Johnson along with Dr. Jean Segura then performed the National Anthem.
After the special guests were introduced, Gilbert “Winky” Aucoin, on behalf of Prairie Heritage, Inc., announced the next Le Grand Hoorah is set for April 17-24, 2020, at Chicot State Park.
Aucoin added in French and English, “I’m proud to be here, and I’m proud that I can speak French in respect for those who came before like those French brothers, Cajun brothers, and our Creole brothers.”
Aucoin’s wife, Margaret “Chicken” Aucoin, then announced she will begin hosting classes in the new year to teach residents how to speak French.
Also speaking was State Representative Mike Huval, who thanked Evangeline Parish Superintendent of Schools Darwan Lazard for supporting and introducing the French Immersion program in the parish. Huval urged residents to support our Cajun French heritage and not lose it.
The police jury went on to recognize retired Police Juror Larry Buller who served on the jury for 24 years and as president.
In other business, the jury:
• reappointed Greg Monier to Mamou Fire District No. 1 Board for another two year term.
• reappointed Randall Fruge and Albert Neil Lejeune to Acadia/Evangeline Fire Protection District Board for another two year term.
• appointed Opal M. Andrus Johnson as member to Evangeline Tourism Board.
• and approved Christmas in the Country Trail Ride.
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Tony Marks
Editor