Several thousand festival goers enjoyed themselves at the Annual Marthaville Good Ole’ Days Festival, held this past weekend, September 29-30. This year’s Festival marks the 31st anniversary of what has become one of our parish’s most beloved traditions. This year’s event was especially noteworthy in that the Marthaville Park, named last year in honor of long-time festival chairman and community icon, Randall “Fuzzy” Hennigan, now features a sign unveiled during Saturday’s festivities.
While the parade was arguably the highlight of the festival, it was far from the only activity to choose from. There was antique car judging, a play area for children, performances by school dance and cheer groups, and a song from Grand Marshal and Folk/Gospel musician Laurie Gentry.
Candidates for local and state offices were afforded an opportunity to make their pitch to voters for the upcoming election.
The parade featured 89 entries ranging from the NCHS Army Junior ROTC Color Guard to antique cars and tractors, a range of politicians and candidates, as well as colorful church floats. The hometown Marthaville Hawk cheerleaders and spirit groups were joined by cheer groups from Provencal, Goldonna and NCHS. The “Pride of the Tribe” NCHS Marching Band kept spirits high with their music. NCHS Army JROTC rounded out the NCHS contingent with a group of sharp looking cadets and a drill team. The fire department, antique cars, and a full complement of area pageant queens and Christmas Belles rounded out the parade roster.
The Marthaville Good Ole’ Days Festival is a superb weekend of family fun and togetherness. It is small town America at its best! The NPJ is looking forward to next year.
Prized Awarded as Follows:
Best Misc Float 1st place: Marthaville 4-H
Best Misc Float 2nd place: Hawks Pep Squad
Best Antique Car: Z-28
Best Antique Truck: Bronco
Best Decorated Queen/King Vehicle” Adeline Lilley
Best Decorated King/Queen Float 2nd place: Sammy Woods
Best Church Float: Marthaville First Baptist
Best Pep Squad: NCHS Chiefettes
Best Jr. High Cheerleaders: Provencal Jr High
Best School Spirit Group: Marthaville Jr High
Best High School Cheerleaders: NCHS
Best Performing Group: NCHS Army JROTC
Best Overall Performance: Provencal Jr. High
Best Overall Performance 2nd place: NCHS Cheerleading
Best Overall Performance 3rd place: NCHS Chiefettes
Best High School Band: NCHS “Pride of the Tribe”
