Rayne Chamber meeting hears Frog Festival plans

RAYNE - A new slate of officers welcomed Chamber members to the March meeting, the first official meeting, of the Rayne Chamber of Commerce’s new year.
Incoming President Jeremy Lavergne presided over his first meeting of the new year and heard a number of reports.
Lavergne, who also serves as chairman of the Frog Festival, gave a report of the 2019 festival slated May 9-11 in Rayne. He stated the push now is sponsor partners as the committee meet its $30,000 goal in sponsorships.
Lavergne stated, “Every year when we ask what the public would like for the festival, they want better bands. The only way to get that is more sponsorships to pay for those bands. Every year, the cost of bands goes up and it takes a large portion of our $105,000 budget.”
He continued, “The final schedule of events will be completed within the next week; and be warned, they will be changes, most of which were suggestions brought forth to us from year to year. We hope the changes will benefit everyone and make the festival better.”
Marietta Sikat gave a report of the upcoming Farmers Market slated March 9 at The Depot.
“I’m hoping for more vendors to contact me so we can get our numbers up,” Sikat stated. “The March market is the first quarterly event for the new schedule to follow.”
Brian Mouton gave a report of the recently completed Mardi Gras Parade and After-Party, noting 25 entries participated in the March 2 parade.
Nikki Link stated eight teams participated in the “Gumbo Cook-Off” held at the Pavilion following the Mardi Gras Parade. A complete report will be submitted during the April meeting.
Under new business, plaques were presented to honorees of the Business Appreciation Banquet Suzette Leonards announced dates for the Frog Festival pageants planned the weekend of March 30-31 at the Rayne Civic Center.
Lavergne announced the folllowing upcoming events:
• Rayne Lions Club Radio Auction on March 11-13;
• American Legion Centennial Celebration on March 16 at the Legion Home in Rayne;
• 7th Annual Back 2 Basics Car & Truck Show on March 15-17 at the Frog Pavilion; and
• Business After Hours slated Thursday, March 28, at Holiday Day Express & Suites (new Chamber member) located on the Frontage Road in Scott, between 5-7 p.m. when the Business of the Quarter will be awarded.