Oxford Democrats enjoy traditional Acadian event

RUMFORD – Nearly 200 Acadian descendants and friends gathered at the Rumford Eagles on Nov. 21 for a traditional dinner of poutine and chiard. There was also some fiddling music from Jim and Jon Roy as well as some impromptu spoon-playing by event Chairwoman Linda Petrie. The Acadian musical supper was sponsored by the Oxford County Democrats.

Bob Parise and Joe Parise of Rumford were the chiard and poutine experts and supervised the cooking crew that worked for two days to prepare the dishes from scratch. They were assisted by Eddie and Dot Bernard of South Rumford, Judy Richardson of Andover, Rep. John and Claire Patrick of Rumford, Linda and Bill Petrie of Mexico, Freda Bernard of Rumford, Lorraine Legere of Dixfield, Julie Burns of Mexico, Hazel Hodgkins of Roxbury and Sen. Bruce Bryant of Dixfield.

Dennis Arsenault of Rumford provided assistance during the preparation and cooking. Cathy Newell of Greenwood handled publicity, and Marlee Turner of Brownfield, Myra Bethel- of Fryeburg and Tim and Jodi Carter, as well as Tim Trafford of U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud’s Lewiston office, assisted at the dinner.

“This event certainly was a tremendous success,” said Oxford County Chairwoman Cathy Newell. “It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying the food and music associated with so much family history, and to see others come to experience something completely new. Our committee is very grateful for the time and energy of those who worked on the dinner.”

The Oxford County Democrats will meet on Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Paris Town Office meeting room in South Paris. There will be a potluck supper at 5:30 p.m., with the meeting to follow at 6:30. Those attending the supper are asked to bring a food item to share. The meeting will feature numerous business items as well as a holiday gift exchange. Those attending are asked to bring an inexpensive gift.