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S&P membership provides necessary funds for free festival

“Many festivals in the state charge a ‘gate’ or entrance fee and keep profits from food and drink sales for festival operation,” said Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival Executive Director Lee Delaune. “Our festival is unique by remaining a ‘free’ festival and has encouraged at least 40 nonprofit organizations to utilize us as a fundraising venue. We certainly could not accomplish any of this without the continued support of our community.”
Funds to hold the festival are raised through membership fees. The 2014 membership drive is under way and support is being sought.
Labor Day weekend marks the 79th anniversary of the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival and Fair Association. “The culture and heritage of the shrimp and petroleum industries are kept alive and are promoted through supporters, community and the many volunteers,” Delaune said. “The officers, board of directors and staff offer each and every one of you thanks.”
Festival membership makes possible the Blessing of the Fleet, the Culture & Heritage Expo, Music in the Park, Fireworks on the River, Children’s Village, Children’s Day Activities, the Classic Car Show and other venues at no cost to the community and thousands of visitors.
“Membership is extremely important,” said Delaune. “The success of the festival is owed to the community and all its supporters. It is through the continued and generous support, volunteers and the participation of our citizens that the festival has become such an outstanding event.”
The festival has garnered numerous awards and “top listings” locally, statewide and nationally. The Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festivals has voted our festival as Festival of the Year in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2007 and 2009. The festival has also received many awards for Best Poster, Best T-shirt, Best Cap, Best Pin and Best Marketing Program.
In the past three years, Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festivals has awarded the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival with the Volunteer of the Year award in Division 3, he said. Those recipients were Greg Price, Peggy Acosta and Rodney Grow.
The festival has received national attention by being featured on many television programs. It was also recently named Non-Profit Organization of the Year by the St. Mary Chamber of Commerce.
Individuals and businesses seeking information regarding festival membership may call the festival office at 985-385-0703 or visit the office at 715 Second St. in Morgan City.

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