Ville Platte Mayor, Jennifer Vidrine, welcomed guests Friday to the Ville Platte’s First African-American Achievers & Black History Mural Dedication Awards Luncheon held at the Martin Luther King Center in Ville Platte. A large, detailed mural on the wall inside the MLK Center was presented showing those who have achieved milestones in Ville Platte throughout the years. The mural was created in three months by a local artist. Other reflections of African-American achievements were placed throughout the center for guests to view.
A presentation was given where nineteen individuals were recognized for their achievements which included being the first African-American to register to vote, first African-American School Board member, City Councilman, Police Juror, City Marshall, Chief of Police, first African-American female to integrate Ville Platte High School and other historic achievements. Of course one of those achievements is Jennifer Vidrine as the first African-American Mayor of Ville Platte.
School Superintendent, Rev. Darwan Lazard was the Master of Ceremony along with other distinguished guests contributing to the presentation. Other elected officials in attendance included, D.A. Trent Brignac, Clerk of Court, Randy Deshotel, Chief of Police, Neal Lartigue, City Marshall, Ronald T. Doucet, Tax Assessor, Dirk Deville, and Police Juror, Ryan Leday Williams.
Carleen Bellard sang for the crowd and a stunning performance was made by Antoune Anthony as he recited the I Have a Dream speech. Ashanti Thomas performed the National Anthem. The crowed was then treated to a luncheon provided by Wilda Clark.
Those honored were:
Rev. E.D. Alfred
Herbert Alfred
Mr. Lawrence Deshotel
Mr. Curley Dossman
Mr. Ronald Doucet
Mr. Freddie Dunn
Councilwoman Gloria Frank
Mr. Marshall Frank
Chief Romeo Hargrave
Mr. Gervis Lafleur
Mr. Greg Lafleur
Mr. Alton T. Locks
Ms. Grace Vidrine Sibly
Mr. Arvie Thomas, Sr.
Mr. Edward Knotoe Thomas
Mrs. Mildred Thomas
Rev. M.L. Thomas
Mr. Olenes Vidrine and Mayor, Jennifer Vidrine
Family members of those who were honored were also recognized. Some of those recognized are no longer with us.