News

Posthumous title of Colonel Cotton is awarded to Hebert

By: HEATHER BOGARD Associate Editor Carissa Ann Hebert is being posthumously honored by the Louisiana Cotton Festival board as Colonel Cotton this year for her dedication to the festival for many years. “She is still a beloved member of our board, and we miss her dearly.

Arvie to lead Grand Parade of Cotton as marshal

By: HEATHER BOGARD Associate Editor When learning he was selected to be last year’s Grand Parade Marshal for the Cotton Festival, Darion Arvie admits, “My initial reaction was shock.

Queen Cotton LXX: Emma Rose McElwee

By: HEATHER BOGARD Associate Editor “This title has opened the door to countless incredible opportunities,” shares outgoing Queen Cotton LXX Emma Rose McElwee.

Cotton Festival youth royalty crowned September 20

By: HEATHER BOGARD Associate Editor Cotton Festival Youth Royalty were crowned during pageant festivities held at the Northside Civic Center in Ville Platte on Saturday, September 20.

Grand Parade of Cotton information

The Louisiana Cotton Festival’s Grand Parade of Cotton has been scheduled for 12 noon Sunday, October 12. Lineup will begin at 10:30 a.m. All entries must be received by Wednesday, October 8, by 5 p.m. Forms can be mailed to 1322 Lee St., Ville Platte, LA. 70586.

Cotton Royalty

1954- King Dave Pearce and Queen Janice Hebert 1955- King John B. Fournet and Queen Myrna Bea Soileau 1956- King Sidney J. McCrory and Queen Geraldine Rogers 1957- King Joel Lafayette Fletcher and Queen Annette Soileau 1958- DeLesseps S. Morrison and Queen Sandra Lemoine 1959- King T.A.

Contradansers keep tradition alive at Cotton Festival

This year’s youth Contradanse team has been practicing hard under the leadership of instructors Melanie and Rob Soileau. They are (from left) front row- Rayna McDaniel, Liam Soileau, Bryce Courville, Nathan Aucoin; back row- Ella Fuselier, AJ Rose, Abby Rose. (Photo courtesy of Melanie Soileau)

Swamp Pop Museum celebrates 15 years

The Louisiana Swamp Pop Museum celebrated its 15th anniversary on Friday, September 26, with an annual open house from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Several Swamp Pop legends were in attendance to reminisce about the past and celebrate Swamp Pop’s future.

Local artist passes away at 86

By: TONY MARKS Editor Gary Richard Steckler, well known for his art, passed away on September 23, at the age of 86. Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 27, at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church. Visitation was held at 11 am, followed by the Rosary at 12 p.m. and Mass at 12:45 p.m.

Searile is arrested for stalking, other charges

By: TONY MARKS Editor VILLE PLATTE - The Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office reports an arrest in connection of an alleged altercation between a Mamou councilman and Rufus Searile.