Members of the Ville Platte Chamber of Commerce met Wednesday for their monthly meeting.  President, Dr. Tojo Ward, introduced the guest speaker, Gilbert “Winkie” Aucoin who brought good news to the group.  He announced through a letter from Robert L. Broussard, President of Louisiana Folk Roots, that the organization has missed Chicot and will be returning to the area to partner with the Grand Hoorah Festival in 2017.  Winkie announced there is a new Executive Director at Louisiana Folk Roots by the name of Glenn Fields.  He is strongly associated with the Black Pot Festival, has vast experience with festivals and a “very good drummer”.   The letter stated “Louisiana Folk Roots remains committed to its mission to nurture, share and perpetuate Louisiana’s traditional Cajun and Creole cultural expressions and heritage through performances and educational activities.  We believe that Evangeline Parish is a valuable asset to and a vital part of our ability to fulfill our mission.” 

The teaching part of the Grand Hoorah will be held at Vermilionville in Lafayette this year. The festival itself will take place at Chicot State Park April 21^st and 22^nd. 

Aucoin also announced that Prairie Heritage, Inc. who puts on the festival, will be awarding two scholarships and will continue to grow that program.

The next Chamber meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 15^th at 12:00 Noon.