Photos by BOBBY ARDOIN
BOBBY ARDOIN
Contributing Writer
Zydeco music, a little bit of dancing, champagne, cake and snacks highlighted the afternoon Tuesday as the Opelousas Museum and Interpretive Center celebrated a 30th anniversary.
The museum building located at 315 North Main Street was reopened in January under the direction of Patrice Melnick, who has labeled the facility as one of the undiscovered nuggets of the city and St. Landry Parish.
Melnick, an author and a historian, said the she is spending much her first few months as director organizing and preparing for future events. Additionally Melnick says she has also been writing grants in order to fund exhibits that will highlight a multicultural parish.
There will also be an attempt Melnick told those participating in the anniversary visit, to rotate the exhibits as much as possible.
“I want to have a chance to show what Opelousas really means,” Melnick says.
The Museum Board of Directors has met twice since Melnick has become director and I think point Melnick is thinking forwardly about maximizing her possibilities.
Here is a list of upcoming museum events:
- May 13 – A talented arts program and St. Landry Parish art exhibit from 4:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.
- May 17 – Jahi Mackey will conduct a story exchange from 10 a.m. until noon.
- June 15 – Mona Lisa Saloy, the poet laureate of Louisiana, will make a guest appearance. From 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. there will be a teen workshop with limited participation. It would be best to call (337-948-2589) to reserve a place. Then from 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. there will be readings and conversation.



