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The annual Squirrel Cook Off in Washington kicked off early Saturday morning as bikes and jeeps rolled out from Willie’s down Hwy. 103.

Gumbo Foundation organizer Tim Marks opened the event with an introduction, opening prayer by Fr. Clint Trahan and a moment of silence in remembrance of the Foundation’s late member Summer Le who passed away earlier this year. Tim then introduced the beneficiary of the event, Larry Manuel.

Larry was involved in a motorcycle accident in March and, as a result, lost his right leg, broke his right hip, and fractured his right eye socket. He has had multiple surgeries, will likely need more, and has an extensive road of recovery ahead of him.

Prior to his accident, Larry volunteered in many ways, taking elderly church members to and from their doctor appointments and on errands, assisted with repairs at the church and church’s school, cooked for the needy, and worked at the food bank. Larry has also lent his assistance in the community by mowing elderly neighbors’ yards and would cook for the wounded warriors in Krotz Springs once a month. He occasionally taught gun safety classes for the Wildlife and Fisheries in Krotz Springs. He is a member of the “Pie Lady” crew that raises money for the sick and needy and has assisted with many motorcycle and jeep runs for local benefits over the years. Larry is certainly no stranger to our community and is always willing to lend a helping hand.

All proceeds from the cook off will go towards Larry’s recovery.

Author

  • Courtney Jennings is a contributing writer with St. Landry Now since 2023 covering local events throughout the parish. She also runs the local publication MacaroniKID Acadia-St. Landry, an online publication and weekly e-newsletter on family friendly activities, local events, and community resources for parents.

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