[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 20 (Thursday, February 7, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E140]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CELEBRATING THE ALEXANDRIA MARDI GRAS ASSOCIATION

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                         HON. RODNEY ALEXANDER

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 7, 2008

  Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 
Alexandria Mardi Gras Association.
  On March 3, 1994, the 295th Anniversary of the Founding of Louisiana 
by Iberville, the Alexandria Mardi Gras Association was officially 
established. The goal of Alexandria Mardi Gras, or Mardi Gras au Coeur 
de la Louisianne, which means Mardi Gras in the Heart of Central 
Louisiana, is to exemplify unity and cohesiveness during family 
friendly festivities.
  This year during Alexandria's 15th Anniversary Mardi Gras, Julie 
Hanna, renowned conservationist is representing the Jack Hanna family 
as Grand Marshal. The Alexandria Zoo, nationally recognized for 
breeding Bengal tigers and other endangered species, is a major 
collaborator in advancing education and tourism during the Mardi Gras 
celebrations.
  The 2008 College Cheerleaders and Classic Cars Parade on Friday, 
February 1, 2008 will feature many of Louisiana's colleges and 
universities and their student government presidents during an 
educational leadership conference. In addition, a select number of LSU 
football players. who recently became the 2007 National Champions, are 
participating in Alexandria's Family Friendly Mardi Gras as well as 
players from the 2003 National Championship team. The celebrated bands 
of Southern University and Grambling University will perform 
designating Alexandria as the only Mardi Gras Parade in which both 
bands are featured.
  Among other Alexandria events during the Mardi Gras season the Krewe 
of LOUISIANA is hosting its Third Annual Gala in order to foster its 
goal of enhancing economic development and unifying Louisiana's 
interests. Also, The Taste of Mardi Gras is again hosting its local 
charity fundraiser naming the Louisiana Restaurant Association, Chapter 
Cenla as the sponsor.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending the 
citizens of Alexandria for their continued hard work and dedication to 
ensure that Mardi Gras in Central Louisiana retains the charm and 
spirit of the first official celebration 15 years prior.

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