Bayou Pigeon Heritage - Moving the Community Forward - Announcement # 4 of 4

 Bayou  Pigeon Heritage - Moving  the Community Forward -  Replacing  Roof on the Heritage Hall 

Bayou Pigeon  Heritage  friends:

Background;

During the early discussions between BPHA and the Diocese of BTR  and A. Wilbert’s sons  about our organization taking over the complex  for adaptive  use. There was hesitancy around, whether the new Heritage  association would be able to sustain  and maintain the old St. Joan of Arc complex. . 

After all, one reason the  site was being abandoned  it was very  costly to maintain. The  condition of the complex / structures  at the time of our negotiations was exacerbated  by years of deferred maintenance  because of cost.

The Activity Center  / gym was thought not to be in un-useable  condition and estimates by the Iberville Parish Inspectors to fix  was over 200k, if you replaced the  HVAC. 

It was pointed out the church  was in need of a new roof, a costly expense >25K  . There were several leaks in  the church in times of heavy rains.  

We agreed, we made the case in the discussions  we well understood that  the high cost of the deferred maintenance by the church parish would catch up with  the buildings sooner than later.

In South La. most asphalt shingle roofs  last 15 to 16  years, the roof  on the church was 20 years, we thought we  would have a little more time to plan  for the replacement. 

We did not anticipate  that Covid 19, Grand River  Flooding of 2021 would put the Association  in start / stop mode on fundraising and  that two Hurricane's would hit us back to back in a week.

Hurricaine  Ida & Nicholas.

Hurricane  Ida  and Nicholas caused  some damage to BPHA structures.  but people say … there is  a silver lining in anything …

The  Association  structures got by  without major damage but had enough damage that we thought we  could file a legitimate claim to repair our  roof on  our Heritage Hall.  

The  Association   filed  an insurance claim  with our Insurance  agency. Our agent immediately went to bat  for us and our damage claims were inspected promptly.  

The inspector  agreed  that our Heritage Hall roof  needed replacement, as repairing part of the  roof was not feasible, too many missing tabs. 

After seeing the damage on Heritage Hall the  Inspector  checked out the Pavilion and House  on the same visit and determined there was damage there as  well..

We are happy to report we  will be getting a new roof on our HERITAGE HALL, the PAVILLION and  parts of the HOUSE.  At essentially no cost to us.

Thank You  to our agent, Dayna Hargrove  LeGrange of Mohragency.  It is helpful to know your agent, personally.

BPHA Shrine  room - Our Lady  Queen of Peace  

As Believers, we know Our Lady Queen of Peace  lives  in and walks these grounds and did not want it to rain in our Chapel.

For the next 20 - 30 + years this is  something we will not have to worry about. ie.,  the  roof on Heritage Hall. 

Truly a God  send.

Moving  Bayou  Pigeon Forward ...  Nov. 14, 2021

Make our 2021 Fall Fest Bigger & Better than 2020

Become involved  with  BPHA !BPHA  What are you waiting  for?

1. Becoming a member is the best way to support Bayou Pigeon community / economic  development.

2. You will get an opportunity to contribute to something meaningful bigger than yourself.

3. You will be building new opportunities  for the children.

4. To have a deeper connection  with neighbors, cousins and past residents.

Dans ton coeur tu es un Cajun

Moving The Community Forward - BPHA

 Bayou  Pigeon Heritage - Moving  the Community Forward - Special Announcement

 # 3 of 4 

Agreement on  proposed  Park  for Bayou  Pigeon 

The Iberville Parish Parks & Recreation and  A. Wilbert's Sons LLC in conjunction with The Bayou  Pigeon Heritage  Association,  have reached an agreement on a proposed Park / Playground on The Bayou  Pigeon Heritage Complex.

The  Heritage  Association would like  to commend & recognize  the yeoman's job by Ms. Chasity Berthelot Easley, Iberville Parish Council Woman  District 2 (including Bayou Pigeon), BPHA Board Member  and  daughter of Mr. McCurley Berthelot Jr. & Sandra  Allemands lifelong residents of Bayou  Pigeon,  pushing  for and facilitating  negotiations between the 3 groups. Without her perseverance on getting  something for Bayou  Pigeon this  would not have happened.

Remember the Parish originally turned  down  the opportunity to take over the complex  from the Diocese of BTR.

Thanks to Iberville Parish President Mitchell Ourso for coming to the table  to support the only Cajun community in  Iberville Parish.

The agreement consist of:

1. A.  Wilbert’s &  Sons LLC has given permission to IPRD to build a  Playground / Park on the  Bayou  Pigeon Heritage site, as they are the landowner.

2. The BPHA agrees to let 4 acres of their current lease to be taken over by the IPRD and A.  Wilbert’s &  Sons LLC will issue  a  new Lease to IPRD.

3. The BPHA lease is modified  to contain the 4 acres, ie, from Hwy 75 frontage to include Front Ball Field, Heritage Hall, The Pavilion, The  3 Bedroom Brick Home and Activity Center / Gym 

4. IPRD will  improve the road / entrance to the new park  and maintain that facility. The BPHA will continue  to maintain their  facility.

The BPHA believes  the new park  will highlight / increase the use our Event Venues and provide overall economic development  not only  for Bayou Pigeon but to all Iberville parish as  well.  

By keeping them in Iberville Parish instead of going other places.

Plan: Proposed park at Bayou Pigeon.

Moving the Community Forward

What is the takeaway  from  this message … motivated  people  can move Bayou  Pigeon Forward.

For all the  doubting  Thomas's!  Who thought there was not enough interest in converting  the old church to a new adaptive purpose.  

Iberville Parish Leadership and the BPHA  have proven we are committed  to moving  the BAYOU  PIGEON COMMUNITY FORWARD.

If you were waiting for  a sign...  to see if we were going successful ...this is it !!

Become a part of improving Bayou  Pigeon...Join our successful organization, enjoy the Facilities.

What are you waiting  for? 

 Membership Form

You can help by volunteering  and coming  out and  supporting  our Annual Fall fest.

 

'Moving the  Community Forward', we will have another posting # 4 of 4  tomorrow, stay tuned.

ALLONS AU PIGEON

Atchafalaya National Heritage Area Grant 2021 for BPHA - Supplemental Information

Atchafalaya National Heritage  Area-  2021 Grant Application – Supplemental Information

BPHA Heritage Hall Project Executive Summary

To: ANHA Trace Commission

1. Background:

1A. In 2017, the Diocese of Baton Rouge announced the closure of St. Joan of Arc Church Parish at Bayou Pigeon. A. Wilbert Son’s owned the land but did not want the structures. As per the lease agreement, the structures would need to be demolished and the land returned to green space, destroying a major gathering place for the Bayou Pigeon Community. 

1B. In 2019, community members gathered and created the Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association, a non-profit 501(c)3 committed to preserving, and promoting awareness and appreciation for the Cajun, French-speaking community of Bayou Pigeon. The BPHA stepped in, and the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge donated all structures, and a new lease was struck for $1 through 2028. 

1C. The former church became the main Heritage Hall, and the land / complex is conveniently located between Morgan City and Baton Rouge on a route often taken by I-10 and LA-1 travelers looking to avoid traffic. 

1D. The current Heritage Hall features exhibits on the history and lifeways of the people who grew up in the Atchafalaya Basin. Expansion plans include renovation and addition of first-class restroom facilities. A place where the Bayou Pigeon community can then host meetings and events to raise funds for preserving of the Atchafalaya swamp culture and folklife. Where visitors can learn more about this once-isolated Cajun community. 

1E. Other Expansion plans include renovating an existing activity center with a research library to preserve written and oral histories (specifically the Cajun French language), smaller meeting spaces and a museum with folklife examples of Atchafalaya Basin boats, fishing equipment and folklife. 

2 Projected Future Impact 

2A. With these updated facilities, the location can serve as an ecotourism-based enterprise for enhancing the local economy. Providing a venue to host visitors, tourist, and other NGO’s with a facility with actual visuals of cultural preservation of the Atchafalaya Heritage area. 

2B. The Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge essentially abandoned the St. Joan of Arc Church Parish at Bayou Pigeon, which had been the single most recognizable landmark and cultural center in the community for over 70 years. The Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association aims to save this community cultural center and expand it to share our story with other Atchafalaya communities. 

2C. The main impact is community revitalization. Efforts of the BPHA will help preserve the Louisiana French language still spoken in the community and share the Bayou Pigeon story with visitors and residents alike. 

2D. Expanding our existing activity center with a research library and oral histories (specifically the Cajun French language), smaller meeting spaces and a museum with folklife examples eg., Atchafalaya Basin boats, fishing equipment and folklife. Will provide children of South west Iberville Parish "Down The bayou", a cultural enrichment program, focusing on local culture that is familiar to both students and their families. Special programs, guest speakers, and presentations related to the Atchafalya Basin will interest students and get them excited about school and learning. 

2e. The area will also serve as an economic driver for this rural community, as area business and restaurants may have the opportunity to promote their businesses through fliers or brochures stationed at the Heritage Hall for visitors to look at and take. They may also be able to participate as vendors at events held at the Heritage Hall. 

2F. Additionally, as the Hall is situated right on the bayou, it may serve as a great location for Phase II of Atchafalaya NHA’s Water Heritage Trail. 

2G. BPHA is also partnering with the Iberville Parish Recreation Department to renovate the park on-site for visitor and community children to use. The complex is also used by the community for baseball practices.

2H. The BPHA is already impacting the community positively – In 2020 community members use our Heritage Hall for private events and community activities, such as kids movie night, Halloween "Boo on the Bayou", Christmas Santa Claus pictures, funeral and wakes and wedding receptions. Activities that would be enhanced with larger bathroom facilities 

2I. Civil Defense  site:   Used by Parish Government  for medi-vac site.  In April / May 2021 the Iberville parish government used the sight for flood sandbagging / disaster relief activities. The BPHA hosted private companies cooking and distributing meals for Flood Victims and relief workers. 

3. Strategic Planning 

3A. For 2021, BPHA is working toward a fully-functional Heritage Hall as a driver rest stop and community event space. 

3B. To become a fully-functional upscale venue would require a project that would entail renovation to expand our one bathroom in our Heritage Hall to expand to be able to accommodate events of greater than 250 people. 

3C. The improvements and upgrade will expand our existing activity center with facilities for humanities focus that will feature the Atchafalaya Basin culture of the south Iberville area. This will allow our young people to explore the many aspects of the unique culture and way of life in the Atchafalaya region. 

3D. The improvements and upgrades will make the facility fully-functional and attractive for users and visitors. 

3E. Likewise, I 10 travelers, East & West  stopping  at Iberville Parish welcome center at Grosse Tete LA would be enticed  to experience real authentic Cajun Swamp community and adventure.The  BPHA center complex is exactly halfway between and would become a natural   stopping point  for people looking for a break  and clean restrooms. 

Stopping at  the BPHA complex with exhibits  would be a great opportunity for residents and visitors alike to learn more about the ANHA and establish a sense of place.

3F - Eastern Gateway to Atchafalaya  Basin

The Northbound traffic to Baton Rouge from Morgan city  via LA. HWY 1 is often bottle necked  at several locations going north. For that reason,  many travelers from St. Mary Parish and lower St. Martin to LSU, use the route through Stephenville and Belle River, Bayou Pigeon to I – 10 at Grosse Tete. 

What started  as Idea:

Is now a Reality:

Our Heritage Hall  is a walking historical tour of Bayou  Pigeon, from  1812 – present day. Landscape, Places People Remember, Military Honor Roll, Pictorial Essay. The wall displays highlight the local people and their resilience of people to make a living  off the resources of the swamp. People relate to seeing information about their ancestors. 

The only thing missing  is adequate bathrooms for events / visitors.

Moving The Community Forward BPHA Face Book Posting 2 of 4 -10 25 2021

 Press Release : Bayou  Pigeon Heritage  Association 

The Atchafalaya National Heritage Area Competitive Grants Applications process   a once a year process. Opened May 1, 2021. The  applications  had to be submitted  to Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and the Atchafalaya National Heritage commission by May 31, 2021.  

The Board of Directors  agreed to apply  for a grant  to convert the old  'Sacristy' area our Heritage  Hall with modern restroom and install a Kitchenette. With a very short cycle time to get application  done and submitted, we had to move fast. Our team met the challenge.

Logic for prioritizing this project:

1. It was necessary  to do remodel the Sacristy area of the former church  and enlarge the  single Bathroom  to be able  to meet Dept. of Health  Standards required  to host 'Event Venue' for up to 250 people.

2. Installing a  small kitchenette area, with  sink, refrigerator , microwave oven  for heating  food , not  heaving cooking. This  would make the facility more attractive  for larger events.

3. Replacing  / repairing  2  exterior  doors  and hardware as needed that were leaking at thresholds.

The project Application had to demonstrate  support  for the Mission of the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area through cultural, recreational or natural resource preservation and enhancement. This where the historical documentation and folklife wall displays of the Heritage Hall came into the equation.

See the file in the  comment section for executive  summary of our Application.

On July 12, we were notified  that we were one of the projected  selected. 

We have recently received  / reviewed the architects  design drawings.  We plan to start on the renovation, after our  Now. 14 Fall fest.

Anyone who wants to help with initial demolition of the Sacristy area, can contact, Randy LaPrairie or Rick Phillips.

This is matching grant, which we have put up 1/2 of the  $30,000  needed to complete the project.  Which includes labor, materials and appliances. 

Everyone can help by coming  out  and  supporting  our FALL fest  and  wild Game cook off so we can ensure  we have the matching funds  and complete this project ASAP.

'Moving the  Community Forward', we will have another posting on something new...  tomorrow.

What are you waiting  for... come join our organization.

Moving the Community Forward

 A Message To Our Members and Followers …

Moving  the  Community Forward

There is a reason this  building is  still standing; it means something to the people of Bayou  Pigeon. 

Community members  came together and saved the former St Joan of  Arc church and complex from being bull dozed and plowed under to become green fields.

Starting Oct. 26, 2021 we will be making 3 separate facebook  postings  on the Bayou  Pigeon Heritage Facebook page outlining and explaining   the good things that are happening in our Association thus bringing all our  members  and Facebook followers, up to Date. 

In this day and era, will be using social media, to communicate / update the  community on how the BPHA is moving the community forward.    Please look  for it  and read them.  you should be impressed, no kidding!

The purpose of doing this  will be  to motivate our BPHA Facebook followers, over 700 strong to join the BPHA if you have not already done so.   If you are not  up to date  recommit.  And  to come out and support our major  fund raiser of the year.

Almost  since the inception of the BPHA we have been in a start / stop mode, as a result of  Covid 19 Pandemic, 2021 Lower  Grand  River Flooding, and Hurricane Ida and Nicholas.  

Despite these ‘Acts of God’,  Bayou  Pigeon Heritage is moving  forward, 

This is possible due to a core group Native Bayou Pigeon  folks  and people of Iberville Parish that value Bayou Pigeon and culture and folklife, volunteering and doing the  work.

At this time, we would be remiss if did not recognize one of those parish residents  for his effort, Mr. Chris Daigle, BPHA president.  

Chris, even though he is not a resident  or native of  Bayou  Pigeon he  has done yeomans  job of keeping the BPHA moving  forward. He is Iberville Parish  School Board Member, IPRD Board Member, and White Castle, LA. business owner. 

Chris is a BPHA life member and  in the last two years has put in a lot personal time and money into our organization.  Above  and Beyond and the call of duty.

On Nov. 14, 2021, we  will be having our 2nd  Annual  Fall Fest / Wild Game  Cook Off.

Our major  fund raiser  for the year ... We could use all the help we can get...

Did  you know … research data has documented that…. wikipedia.org. Fundraising

• 80% of Americans believe it’s essential for people to come together in person to achieve  success.

• 71% of Americans agree that attending live events makes them feel more connected to other people, the community, and the world around them. A sentiment that has increased since 2014 (66%).

• 70% of American men and women agree that attending a live event has been more successful at expanding their perspective than just reading about a topic online.

• 84% of people believe that live events  inspire positive change for an organization / community.

• 73% of young people  consider attending an live event a form of expression.

• By involving  prospective givers into the middle of the action, you put color to your cause.

• Finally,  success in  areas of the common local life are strengthened through having access to live local events.

What is the takeaway  from  this message … 

The BPHA  has proven we are moving BAYOU  PIGEON FORWARD.

What are you waiting for ? 

Join our successful organization, enjoy the Facilities, and  support our 2nd Annual fall Fest.

Contact Patty Phillips 225 776 1706

Chris  Settoon 225 776 3616

Chris Daigle 225 776 4122

Cliff LeGrange 225 776 2686

To volunteer

Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association 2021 Membership renewal

 Dear Valued Members :

Your 2021 Charter  membership certificates  &  membership renewal notices went out via March 9 & 10 via USPS first class mail.  If you  do not receive one in a few days please let us  know.

Examples of  our very nice and suitable  for framing member certificates are attached at bottom of posting.

We are praying that  2021  will be a Happier New Year  than 2020. We thank you for your support of The Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association. 

Please display your Charter membership certificate  proudly. 

Last year your membership fees helped get our organization off to a successful start, including: 

Cleaning and updating the interior of the former church building into a main event facility available for rent.

Repaired vandalism done to the old activity center/gym

Repaired, updated, and cleaned outdoor pavilion, parking lot, and landscaping

Continued maintenance of the facility and grounds

Rededicated the former chapel to Mary, Our Lady, Queen of Peace

Please consider renewing your membership today. 

If you want to mail your renewal, contact  any member listed in this posting  and we will get you a hard copy renewal form.  You can renew your membership on our website, www.bayoupigeon.com.

If you have any questions about the renewal process please contact one of the members of membership committee.  

Clifford LeGrange-225-776-2686, Patty Phillips-225-776-1706, Cindy Vaughn-225-776-4083, Chasity Easley-225-776-2844, Danielle Williams-225-776-2977, Dena LoBue-225-229-9773

When this  Covid pandemic situation releases  we are planning numerous 

events  to help promote the community of Bayou  Pigeon. 

Consider asking your friends / relatives  to join.  Do not underestimate  how much an encouraging word  from a member will motivate someone else to do the same. 

As always, we thank you for your continued support to preserve our heritage. We are looking forward to another exciting year.

Sincerely, 

Chris  Daigle, Chachie LeGrange , Dena  H. Lobue, and Danielle H Williams &

The Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association Fall Fest Seafood / Wild Beast Cook Off.

 Calling  all  Cajun  Cooks

The Big Cajun Cooks Are On The Prowl

Menu

Location

Bayou  Pigeon  Heritage  Association  Pavilion.

39315 La Highway 75, Bayou Pigeon, Louisiana 70764-9629

Registration / Eligibility

Open to general public.

 A completed  / signed registration form and category  selection is required for a complete registration.

Entry fee - $25

Each team must have a  designated  team captain. 

Teams may have  up to 4members, at least one team member must be 21 years or older.

EVENT SCHEDULE

All entries must be prepared in as sanitary a manner as possible. All applicable local health codes  and guidelines  apply.

There are two categories:

• Seafood

• Wild Beast

$250 to 1 st place in each category 

1 st place prize  = $250 +  trophy spoon  & hats  for each member, 2nd place  trophy spoon & hats , 3 rd  place trophy  spoon  & hats.

The cooking can begin as early as you need to. The Pavilion  grounds  will be open  at 6:00 AM.

If entry needed  earlier  the team must notify  one of the cook-off chair persons of the requirement  for approval.

Upon  entry each team must  stop by  the registration  table to pick up team cooking  area  assignment / location and BPHA provided items.

Preparation of ingredients  can be  done offsite, i.e.., including roux  and  stock. All the  actual cooking must be  done  on the  site. Each team must bring their own cooking burner / cook top, prep table and utensils. Each team shall prepare  at least  50 – 8 ounce servings  available  for sale to public (3 gallons). 

The BPHA  will supply rice  and / or pasta unless the team wants to prepare their own. 

All entries  for judging must be  done at 11:00 AM.  

Team captains  are responsible  for bringing 3 samples  to designated judging area. 

The awards ceremony taking place immediately  afterwards. 

A score of 0 -100 will be given  for each entrée.

The criteria used for judging (100 points possible) will include:

- Appearance of food 30 pts max)

- Taste of food (70 pts max)

The winner from each category will be announced and presented their respective ribbons and prize money. 

There  will be a judge’s meeting prior to the judging  to review / explain judging criteria with the judges.  

Judge’s  will not be identified publicly before the  event. Participants are welcomed to attend judges meeting, but not required to attend. 

Judges decisions are final.

Samples / Dishes shall be  available  for sale to public  by 11 am.

Price per bowl / plate to be determined by BPHA  the day of  event

All proceeds go to the  Bayou  Pigeon Heritage  Association 

Food  service  standards in this Covid 19 pandemic:

All team members  shall wear face masks  and  gloves 

Each team shall have a  cooking thermometer to ensure that all foods are cooked to the appropriate internal temperature.

Cooking surfaces  in the  cooking  area shall cleaned and sanitized in accordance with standard  sanitary procedures using alcohol-based sanitizer as  appropriate.

 

Hand  Washing

After sneezing, coughing, or using a handkerchief or tissue

After smoking, eating, drinking, or chewing gum or tobacco

After handling raw meats, poultry, or fish

After any clean up activity such as sweeping, mopping, or wiping counters

After touching dirty dishes, equipment, or utensils

After handling trash

After handling money 

After using the toilet

Use warm running water, soap, and dry hands after using toilet / restroom.

In the  cooking  area,  if  running water sink / lavatory  is not  available use  an  

alcohol   based sanitizer for hand washing and paper towels to dry hands. 

Do not use product preparation area sinks for hand washing. 

Restrict  unauthorized  people   in each team  cooking  area, no children under the  age of 12 in the  cooking  area, practice  social  distancing.

No eating food, drinks, gum, cigarettes,  in the immediate  cooking areas.

Safety / Fire prevention:

Each team suggested to have their  own readily available and visible working fire extinguisher.

Minimum suggested is 5lb. ABC. 

However, the BPHA  will have  several 5lb. ABC. Extinguisher posted in the area.

BPHA Wild Beast Cook Off Registration  Form:

Team Name:_____________________ Sponsor/s:_________________________________________

Team Leader  and / or Head  Cook:______________________   

Teams  can include up to 4 members :

__________________________________      ______________________________________

__________________________________      ______________________________________  

Team Mailing  Address:   City:_______________________ State:______   Zip:__________________

Phone/s:  Land  Line ________________________  Cell   ____________________________

Email: _______________________________

Category:   Seafood __________________

         Wild Beast _______________

I have read and understand the rules of Bayou  Pigeon Heritage association  wild beast  cookoff and  will abide by such rules and give permission to be filmed and photographed at the event for promotional use.

Signature: ________________________________________Date: _____________

Entry  Fee :  $25     Note:  Be prepared to pay  fee upon  arrival on the day of the  event. 

Entry option  1:   Print form, complete  the  form,  and  mail  via USPS  to:

Bayou  Pigeon Heritage   Association 

P.O. Box 1087

Plaquemine, LA. 70764

Entry option  2: Print the  form,  complete  the  form, take a picture of  completed  form, with your  smart phone text  to Chris D. -  225 776 4122, Chachie – 225 776 2686 or Joe  Richard - 225 268 3278, Chris  S 225 776 3816

Entry  Option 3: Call one  of the chairpersons  above  and notify one the  chairpersons  that you / team fully intend to enter  the  contest and  brief description of team and category. Bring the  completed  form and present  the completed  form upon  arrival  at  site on or before  7:30  AM.

Cook Off  Contest  Judges  Scorecard

Team  Name: _______________________________________________

Entrée: ____________________________________________________

Recipe  Available: _________

Category: 

Seafood ______________________

Wild beast ____________________

Primary Ingredients: __________________________________________

Appearance & Texture:  Max  score  30 points

Explanatory note:  Appearance of food determines the acceptance or rejection of the food before it is tasted. Texture is the way food feels to the touch and the mouth. Score of 30 means no defects.

Examples of what to judge  

overcooked/undercooked

pleasing eye appeal

appetizing color 

is the garnish attractive?

Flavor / Taste:  Max. score 70 points

Explanatory note: Flavor is a composite term embracing taste, smell, and mouth feel.

Fried Fish  / Seafood /  Boiled Seafood - should not be mushy, watery, dried out, or scorched

Seafood / Stews  & Smothered wild game - Substandard stews are floury or watery. The meat is often tough, stringy, and skimpy.

Herbs and Spices: Seasonings are designed to bring out and enhance the good, not overpowering

Taste,  on the other hand  is limited in scope to what your taste buds can detect

Examples of taste: 

Sweet; exactly right / too sweet

Sour; exactly right  or not  applicable

Salty; exactly right /  too salty

Bitter; exactly right  or not applicable

Appendix A:

Judges’  Comments or explanation  for Score:

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Guideline lines  for point scoring.

Appearance  and Texture 

30 = Excellent No defect 

20 = Slight  defect in one of the  categories

20  =  Fair in all categories 

10 = Average in  all  Categories

5 = Below  average in one or more categories

Flavor & Taste 

70 = Excellent, exactly right in all appropriate categories 

60  = Good in all appropriate categories

50  = Fair in all appropriate categories

40  =  Average in all  appropriate categories

25  = Below  average in appropriate  categories

For more information Contact  Chris  Daigle  225 776 4211  or  Chachie 225 776 2686 

Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association _ Strategic Plan

 Bayou  Pigeon  Heritage  Association   News

Several people  have  asked  recently,  hey what do ya'll  have going on  at the old  church.  I  see a  lot of activity going on there but don't know much  about it.

This means  people  are  starting to take   note of our  activity  at Heritage  complex.

This is all  part of our strategic plan.  To support the mission of the  Bayou  Pigeon  Heritage  Association ...

( http://bayoupigeon.com/index.html  )

The  Association  has  developed  a four part strategic plan. 

1. Historical / Cultural  / Folklife Preservation of the facilities and Bayou  Pigeon documents and pictures creating a  sense of Bayou Pigeon Cajun  identity.

2. Keep up the facilities  to ensure we can provide support  For Parish Civil Defense / Disaster Resilience   Of  Community

3. Renovate  /  Maintain  Prayer Room  to  Our  Lady  Queen of Peace in the old Chapel room in the  corner of  old church for a small number of participants. 

4. Co-operatively Organizing And Supporting Events And Activities To Meet The Needs Of The  Community. Fostering  Community Participation, Unity  and Community  Economic Well Being

The  activity you have  been  seeing has been  cleanup  for getting the facility ready  for these  events. that are part of Element # 4 of our strategy. It  all started  by in Dec. 2019, with the reintroduction of The  Bayou  Pigeon  Christmas  Parade.  Ms. Chasity Easley organized that  last Christmas and  we plan to make it  an  annual event.

Ms. Kristen  Settoon organized a kids  movie night.

Mr. Chris  Settoon organized two  garage  sale type  events and with 'to go' dinners  for  sale.

Our  effort  continues   this month with this Halloween event , ie., 'Boo on the Bayou'  event.  

Ms . Sandy Carbo has  privately sponsored this  event  for the last few years at her restaurant.  It has become  quite popular and attracted a large crowd.

She has graciously offered to let the  Heritage Association pick up  and hold the event in the hopes of making it  an  annual Halloween  event.

We will  have more tables  and treats  at the event this year.  I think we have more than a  dozen tables.  All  are donated  and  free of charge to the kids of the  community.

Feel free to share the advertisement / flyer to your Facebook  pages.

Shrimp  Stew Sale

We  currently have quarts of Shrimp Stew,  heat and  serve pre prepared,  available  for pick up from Carbo's Restaurant, $15 per  quart.  Carbo's Restaurant Recipe.

You can order by calling / contacting Bayou  Pigeon  Association, Patty  Phillips, Marla  Berthelot, Sandy Carbo, Cindy Vaughn, Cliff  LeGrange , Chris Daigle, Randy  LaPrairie.

COD when you pick up at  Carbo's restaurant.  

You can pay on line  from our  web  site via  credit card if you prefer.  Follow the  steps below:

November  Event - A Wild Beast Cookoff  - Mini Fair

In November  we have a  major  event,  "A wild beast cookoff  and  a mini  old time  Bayou Pigeon fair. I use the term mini because  we don't know  what the  Covid  19  rules will be  at that time.  The  governor is to make an  announcement on  new Covid 19  rules on Nov. 9.  We will  follow the  rules / guidelines.

Instructions  / rules  for wild beast cook-off  will be posted this  week  for all to see.

Our  Association is picking up momentum.  These events are bringing in unique visitors who will inject new revenue into the economy and revitalize  Bayou  Pigeon. 

Visit our  website  for more information about the  Bayou  pigeon  Heritage  association.

With our mission statement clearly  identified  /defined,   our  strategic plan  provides the road map  on how to fulfill  it.

Please  consider joining our  association.

For the team...

Chris Daigle  and  Cliff ( Chachie)  LeGrange

‘Our Lady Queen of Peace Shrine’

 

Blessing of New ‘Our Lady Queen of Peace Shrine’ 

at Bayou Pigeon Heritage Hall  

Sat. Aug. 29, 9:30 Am

Agenda:

Welcome  - Ms  Cindy  Vaughn / Chris Daigle

Opening  Prayer -  Father  Al Davidson

VIP Introductions – Ms.  Cindy  Vaughn

Blessing / Dedication Ceremony -  Fr. Al Davidson

Refreshments / Jambalaya Dinner

Background / History  of  Project:

When the Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association took over the facilities of the old St. Joan of Arc Church parish, one the main topics of discussion how can we keep some aspect of the strong Catholic faith at  Bayou  Pigeon. Can we bring back some part of old  St. Joan of Arc Church  Parish life as part of our organization. 

Immediate  thoughts  went to the existing separate prayer room in the  front  right  corner of the  Building.  What  could be  done  with  that.  

After researching  and talking  with  thoughtful people, The Board of  Directors of The BPHA reached an obvious  conclusion about the use of that room.   It  could be adapted to a religious theme room. The  Diocese left behind  at the church, the Mary Queen of  Peace  statue  from the original Shrine of Our Lady, Queen Of Peace. Another  intuitively  obvious  thought, the  statue  could become  the focal  point  / piece  for the room. 

The original Shrine of Our Lady, Queen Of Peace, at St. Joan of  Arc  Church  lasted 10 years, it was demolished in the year 2000, to make way for the new church.  

To move  forward on this  project Ms. Cindy Vaughn graciously volunteered  to be the chair person  for the restoration of the prayer room and the Board of Directors of the BPHA quickly accepted

Volunteers of the BPHA have been preparing the former Chapel to be  a re-creation  of  Father Mario  Termini’s  Shrine to  Mary.

The  Statue, images, pictures and painting’s from the original Shrine are being used.  Original Chairs in the  shrine  are being refurbished. All this to recreate ambiance of the Original  Shrine.

We are now ready to showcase this  project.

The blessing of this hallowed  room blessing will occur on Saturday Aug 29, at 9:30 A.M. in the shrine room. A free lunch and refreshment will be served after the Blessing.

 The blessing  will be  done  by Father Al Davidson, Pastor of St. Joseph the Worker Church Parish. Parishioners  of  the  former St. Joan  of  Arc  church Parish now officially belong  to St.  Joseph The Worker  Church Parish  of Pierre Part, LA. 

The Blessing is open to General Public , Social Distancing rules  per phase  2 apply  and Face Mask will be required.

That Cajuns love their rosaries, novenas, statues are evident in the many statues of the Mary in  the yards of Bayou Pigeon residents. Their intense devotion to the Blessed Mother is much stronger in South Louisiana than in other areas of the country. 

The Chapel to “Our Lady, Queen of Peace” of Bayou Pigeon, Louisiana, held a special place in the hearts and souls of Catholics at Bayou Pigeon and Iberville Parish. It was immensely popular and best attended houses of worship in Iberville Parish. Many visitors from all over the country came by on tour buses to witness and pray at the Chapel. 

The Our Lady Queen of Peace Shrine room in the Bayou Pigeon Heritage Hall will be / is a quiet place  for all who desire peace  and  solace  for their  souls.  

We pray that all who desire a quiet sanctuary to pray for special intentions and seek solace for their souls will choose  this  shrine. We consider it hallowed ground.

Mary Queen of Peace Be with Us When We Pray, in this hallowed room.

Donations To Maintain  The  Shrine

Rosaries can / are offered for  anyone  and  any intention. 

To have a  rosary offered  for a person or  special intention please complete a Rosary Intention Request available in the  Shrine Prayer  room.

We suggest a stipend of $5  for a rosary for and individual  or  Special intention. 

You can choose to book dates for  your rosary  around special dates or anniversary, etc.To have a  rosary offered  for a person or  special intention please complete a Special Rosary Intention Request available in the  Shrine Prayer  room.

We suggest a stipend of $5  for a rosary for an individual  or  Special intention. 

Enrolled  Will Receive Special Enrollment Card:

Rosary every Tuesday at 10 A.M. and Communion  and  Rosary  every other Tuesday. Unless noted  otherwise on BPHA Web  Site. 

 

For more information about The  Bayou  Pigeon  Heritage  Association

http://www.bayoupigeon.com/

Memorial Gifting Added To Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association

MEMORIAL GIFTING

Making a monetary donation in the name of the loved one is an expression of care.

In lieu of  flowers, many families  are  requesting  donations to charities that their loved ones  supported.

How much to donate is always a personal decision. 

Generally memorial service etiquette, a donation in lieu of flowers is as much as you would spend on flowers.

Here are the ways you can donate to the Bayou Pigeon  Heritage  Association:

— Make a donation  / pay online at http://www.bayoupigeon.com/  Credit card  and PayPal accepted)

Or print the  form below and send a check in the mail  to: Bayou Pigeon  Heritage , P.O. Box 1087, Plaquemine, LA. 70764

Our Heritage newsletter will publish an  online  thank  you  to the person making the  donation and the person honored for  any donation amount.

Extraordinary Donations:

Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association Recognition Plaque in  Heritage Hall

Our association has a wall plaque with names for life  time members. Any Memorial  donation of  $1000  dollars or more.  The person who is honored   will be considered as a life  time member. Their name will added  to the plaque  displayed.

Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association Master Plan Update

Master Plans - Executive  Summary

The Bayou  Pigeon  Heritage Association is an IRS 501c3 non-profit  association  and has received ownership  of the structures  that once belonged  to the St  Joan of Arc Catholic Church.

We will be doing  more membership recruitment  for 2020  in the  coming  weeks / months.  In  the fall , this year, we  will have a major fund raiser and recruitment  program for  2021.

Remember  all dues / donations  are  tax deductible.

So potential members will have information on what  their dues  and donations  will be used for. Listed below is executive summary on Function  and Improvement projects  for the facilities.

The mission of  Bayou  Pigeon  Heritage  Association ;

The Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association is organized as a 501 c (3) non-profit corporation for the purposes of saving the St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church Complex from abandonment and demolition by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge and for preserving and using the said Complex for the preservation, promotion, perpetuation, education and enhancement of the past and present living histories, culture, heritage and folk life of the Swamp Cajuns of Bayou Pigeon, Iberville Parish, and Louisiana.

General  Facility, Exterior:

Visible Signage: Large, easy to read BPHA  sign. Remove  all unnecessary  St.  Joan of  Arc old  signage

Clean it Up: Power wash , parking lot, sidewalk  and and entrance ways. 

Garbage bins supplied  and maintained

Trim / remove  unnecessary and maintain existing landscaping  

Repair pot holes in parking lot.

Restore / Paint New Lines on the Parking Lot: 

In General  clean it up, curb  appeal is important  for public  perception.

Heritage  Hall Master  Plan

Become a upscale event  center  for our  community  and surrounding  area,  for many types of  functions.

1. Ensure the HVAC  system  is maintained  and  working  properly.

2. The main hall  will maintain  the open concept floor plan

3. The  Cry Room  of the  former church  will be remodeled as a food serving  area for  caterers.

4.  The existing Chapel room will be renovated  / upgraded  into a Christian prayer / meditation  room in keeping   with catholic special consideration of Mary the mother of Jesus

5. The interior restoration will include remodel  of the  vestibule area  to new modern Men  and  Women  Bathrooms with multiple   and updated plumbing fixtures.

6. The  confessional  area  will be remodeled into small kitchen.

7. The  sanctuary / altar part of the former church to be maintained as is for foreseeable future.

Our  Lady  Queen of  Peace Chapel Room

Become a Catholic theme Meditation  and Prayer  room,  with periodic services, like communion  for sick, handicapped  folks who cannot make the trip to a  near by church. 

The Chapel room  will contain objects for meditation and prayer.  A statue of  representing Mary  Queen of Peace  from the original shrine,  will be in place.  A wall with pictures  of Gods Plan  for Man’s  Salvation  from the original shrine. Plans  are  for large  mural of the original  Chapel  room and with pictures of the history of the  church  at Bayou Pigeon  are planned.

We intend  for it to a quiet place  for  people  who are bereaved and  / or want pray for  special intentions. Entry  and Hours of availability  are yet to be determined.

Chair  woman of the  committee to develop Entry  and Hours of availability  is Ms. Cindy Vaughn.  Comments  and  suggestions  for use of the  Chapel  can be  sent via the  "contact us' feature of the BPHA  Web  Site.

Work  with Pierre Part  St.  Joseph the  Worker Parish pastor to reestablish some  Catholic Services to the  Chapel.

The  Activity Center

The  BPHA Activity Center 


Will be a recreational activity center  for the kids of the community.  A  smaller venue  for  club's  and other organization meetings.



First order of business will  be repair roof leaks.

Damage  done to   electric wiring and water pipes  by Vandals will be repaired. With power and water restored.

The   three side  room A/C units  will be  cleaned  and charged to  working  condition.  The interior  ceilings  of  side  rooms will have  ceiling tile replaced  and  walls will be  cleaned  and painted as applicable / as required.

The kitchen area  ceiling  tile  will be replaced  and / or fixed.  The kitchen  area will use a 5's model / technique, ie., Sorting, Simplifying, Shining, Standardizing, Sustaining  for reorganizing.

Interior walls  and storage  shelves  repaired / repainted  as necessary.  A new  stove  and Micro wave  ovens  will be  added.  All cooking stuff will be  evaluated  and will be cleaned.  Irreparable  stuff  not salvageable  will be  discarded.

The main interior walls  of the Structure will be  evaluated  and cleaned  and repainted as  applicable.

The  storage area above the  side  rooms  and kitchen area  will be  cleaned  and organized  using a 5's model / technique, ie., Sorting, Simplifying, Shining, Standardizing, Sustaining  for storage.

Install new gutters  on  roof.

The  Outside  Covered  Pavilion

Outside  Covered  Pavilion;  

Outdoor activity center  for all types of community events, fund raisers.  

Exterior  work includes extensive power  washing  / clean up, repairs include roof sealing and  some replacement,

Replacing existing post  and  rotted wood with #1 Grade Treated  lumber.

Repairing / Painting  and / or replacing   eating tables,  walkway handrails as  applicable.

Landscape restoration.

Repairing / Painting  and / or replacing , modernizing  concessions  and  serving  areas using  5's model / technique, ie., Sorting, Simplifying, Shining, Standardizing, Sustaining  for storage.

Evaluating, Repairing / renovation  of the drainage  system and landscape restoration.

Ball Fields

Develop baseball / softball  fields  for all age groups.  Tournaments and Travel ball, 

First order of business will be keeping the grass  cut on all the fields.

Evaluate, repair  and  ensure lights  for  the field are  working properly.

Clean up dugouts  and  concession  stands and remove  all trash.

Repair  and renovate  main (front) field  to a playing  condition

Evaluate  and restore Irrigation  and  drainage repairs completed 

Repair  and repaint  backstop,  renovate dugouts, batting cage and perimeter fencing.

Powerwash  and Repair existing bleachers as  appropriate.

Parish  / Government  Cooperation

Preliminary discussions on a Kids Playground  and  Walking Track. The  Association is willing to look at this  with parish officials.

Caretakers Residence Master Plan

The  Heritage  Association  will seek / advertise for a  caretaker  for the property. 

The priests house  will be the residence of a caretaker of the  property.

The House  will be furnished  and thoroughly  cleaned and   free of  any mold.  HVAC  will be evaluated and certified as in proper  working  conditions.  All  appliances  will be in proper working  condition.

An inventory of  furnishing's  will be  recorded.

A two  for one  is the  desired  outcome. A couple to live  and  manage the complex. Rent will be  part of  any compensation package.

Keeping watch on the property for the Association will be  the primary responsibility, eg., the eyes and ears of the association to let them know when problems arise with the buildings or land, including roads, open spaces and landscaping. You’ll need to watch the comings and goings of people on the property too to make sure everything is  safe and trespassers keep out.

Caretaker, duties  will include to make rounds of the property on a regular basis, keep some  kind of regular hours on the  site as a mutually  agreed upon  with  the BPHA  and be on call for emergencies. Do routine cleanups, and other maintenance tasks, according to the proprietor's requests. 

The managing  couple  will take care of tasks  as requested by the  BPHA as a team.  Routine maintenance duties such as  cutting grass  and taking care of the landscaping  and BPHA typically fall on the man  and  will be required. Minor  / small fixer-upper skills such as carpentry, electrical and plumbing is a plus.

Keeping  regular reports on your rounds of the property and the state of the buildings and grounds will  also part of the job.

A legal lease / contract will prepared  by our attorney with terms, conditions,  timelines, do's & don't and specific clauses  for termination.

Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association Begins New Era

Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association Community Event 

Much thought and discussion went into forming the Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association and how it could / would be supported. When the Diocese closed the St. Joan of Arc church at Bayou Pigeon Church it was completely funded from church fairs and annual sales of crawfish related dishes, bisque.

Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association Mission Statement

The Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association is organized as a 501 c (3) non-profit corporation for the purposes of saving the St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church Complex from abandonment and demolition by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge and for preserving and using the said Complex for the preservation, promotion, perpetuation, education and enhancement of the past and present living histories, culture, heritage and folk life of the Swamp Cajuns of Bayou Pigeon, Iberville Parish, and Louisiana.

Nonprofit fundraising 

In 2020 Nonprofit fundraising has entered into an entered a new era. An environment changed by a global pandemic, divisive political times, and social media communication.

With that backdrop the Bayou Pigeon Heritage Association planned and held its first major fund raiser, for the  community,  a community garage / craft sale along with a fried fish dinner sale. Something that the Board of Directors agreed was non-controversial and could be held outside.

A movie night  for kids  was held   prior  to the garage  sale  and was deemed  great success in building community involvement  and promoting the Heritage  Association.

The Garage  Sale / Fish Fry  dinner event, held on  June 27 was an enormous , better than expected economic success.

The  association  was  able to add enough money into our account guaranteeing   we can meet our obligations   well into 2021.

Over 50 people  went into Heritage Hall to check  out our  Heritage Hall  and our Chapel  Room.  By the way  Cindy Vaughn has volunteered to be  the Chair  Person managing  the Chapel room.  Look for good things to happen there bring back a spiritual  aspect to our community.

It looked like  an old time  Pigeon Church  Fair

Event organizers, Chris Settoon, Patty Phillips, and Kristen Settoon and numerous helpers worked very hard to bring as many people from the local community into the event.

Over 15 different booths garage / crafts were available, and the fish fry dinners were prepared by a new generation of Cajun cooks.

Chris Daigle, president of Bayou Pigeon Heritage association, thought what made this event successful, ownership was in hands of local people and a new generation of workers.

Iberville Sheriff Brett Stassi was there greeting people and commented that it had the same atmosphere / show of support of past Bayou Pigeon Church fairs. Which he said everyone in the parish is looking forward to the return of the Bayou Pigeon fairs.

Dean Deslatte of A. Wilbert’s LLC, the landlord of the heritage stopped by and bought lunches, commented they were pleased and that the site looked great and they were very please how things were progressing.


To keep posted of future Bayou Pigeon Heritage events, check the Bayou Pigeon Facebook page on a regular basis, the community is back…

https://www.facebook.com/Bayou-Pigeon-Heritage-Association-101926544827324/


If  anyone has any ideas  for fund raisers use the  "Contact Us' function on the our website to communicate to us.


We know  there is in  excess of 300 hundred  of  follower on the  Bayou  Pigeon  Heritage Association  Facebook page...  and over 800  followers  on the  Pigeon Facebook page.

We could use volunteers  at events, to cut grass, weed eating  and landscaping and power washing especially  the  Pavilion.  Surely there are  brave  Bayou  Pigeon Natives out there that could help.

Use the  'Contact Us' to volunteer to help.

Won't you please help us ...time spent  volunteering  for good causes like perpetuation of the  Chapel Room is not deducted from ones  life  span !

In Bayou  Pigeon  Spirit

Chachie