FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ribbon Cutting for Public Art Billboard
WHAT: Ribbon Cutting for Public Art
WHEN: Tuesday, August 11, 2026
TIME: 9 a.m.
WHERE: I-49 Service Road, Opelousas
CONTACT: Patrice Melnick 337-948-2589; museum@cityofopelousas.com
Join us for a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, Aug 11 at 9 a.m. to celebrate a public art billboard display featuring a
photo by Bruce Alsandor. The gathering takes place in the parking lot of Sonny’s Audio at 5407 Interstate 49
South Service Rd, Opelousas, LA 70570.
Over the course of one year, photos by four Opelousas residents become part of a billboard display on I-49 in
Opelousas. Thinking Big, a public art project of the Opelousas Museum, strives to magnify and uplift community
art to a regional scale. This is done by showcasing images from the Where We Live: Opelousas Neighborhoods
community photo exhibit. Selected images are by Florence Freeman, Bruce Alsandor, Hernet Hill and Lisa Lewis
(People’s Choice). The project also highlights the artistry of Opelousas residents and encourages passersby to
take the Opelousas exit to visit local sights, including the Opelousas Museum.
The billboard sits on the east side of I49 between Judson Walsh Road and Creswell Lane, visible to drivers
heading from Grand Coteau toward Opelousas on the left.
Bruce Alsandor’s photo, “It Won’t Be Long Now,” was taken during the 31st Annual Holy Ghost Catholic Church
Creole Festival in Opelousas; he was serving as volunteer photographer for the Rotary Club. He noticed two
gentlemen preparing a traditional Creole stew, and was impressed by the pride they invested in the preparation.
According to Alsandor, the image “reflects the rich culture, heritage, and community spirit that have made the
Holy Ghost Creole Festival a cherished Opelousas tradition for generations.” The image will remain until the end
of October, when a new image will be displayed.
Bruce Alsandor is a lifelong resident of Opelousas who has dedicated nearly four decades to public service
through local, state, and federal law enforcement. He has a deep appreciation for the people, history, culture,
and traditions that make Opelousas unique. His commitment to the community includes civic leadership and
volunteer service. He is honored that one of his photographs was selected to help preserve and showcase the
culture, traditions, and spirit of Opelousas.
Thinking Big is supported in part by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural
Development, Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism. The project also receives support from the St.
Landry Parish Tourism Commission as well as the City of Opelousas. The Ribbon Cutting is made possible
through the St. Landry Chamber of Commerce.
The Opelousas Museum is located at 315 N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570.
FMI: Patrice Melnick 337-948-2589; museum@cityofopelousas.com
