Police Juror to serve as Grand Marshal

Rocky Rider might not reside within the limits of the village of Chataignier, but that doesn’t mean that he isn’t appreciated.
The Evangeline Parish Police Juror for District 1 will serve as Grand Marshal for this Sunday’s Chataignier Christmas parade. Rider, who lives on Belaire Cove Road in Ville Platte, was surprised by the honor.
“I will be honest with you,” Rider said. “I was shocked. They usually pick someone in the village itself or nearby area. I feel very honored.”
Even though Rider may not be a resident of Chataignier, he has had a long standing relationship with the village as its police juror and through other works, including helping the raising funds for the village’s fire department for more than 15 years.
That made the village council’s decision to select Rider as this year’s grand marshal an easy one.
“He’s very helpful,” Chataignier Mayor Jackie Thomas said. “He participates in the village. When you ask him to help he’s always there. We were excited to ask him.”
Asked if he was at all nervous about serving as a grand marshal for the first time, Rider replied laughing, “I am little bit. I have to lead the parade. I am not used to that.”
The Chataignier Christmas Parade will begin at 3 p.m., with lineup starting at 2:30 at the old Carver School. Free gumbo will be offered as the Village Hall afterwards, as well photos with Santa.