[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E781-E782]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING THE CHAMPAGNE FAMILY AND 100 YEARS OF CHAMPAGNE'S MARCHE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CLAY HIGGINS

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, August 10, 2026

  Mr. HIGGINS of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Champagne 
family and celebrate the 100th anniversary of Champagne's Marche, a 
family-owned business that has served the people of Louisiana with 
exceptional service for three generations exemplifying a commitment to 
family and community.
  One hundred years ago, Walter and Alma Champagne opened the doors to 
a small neighborhood store in Port Barre, Louisiana. It took an entire 
week before the first customer walked through the door, but the 
Champagne's never wavered. They earned the community's trust through 
hard work, fair prices, and good service.
  The same spirit has guided the Champagne family for a century. Howard 
and Sarah Champagne expanded the business with a new store in 1979, and 
Richard and Angela Champagne carried the family tradition into a third 
generation, growing Champagne's Marche into a destination known for its 
king cakes, sausage, boudin, chicken salad, and many other Louisiana 
specialties.
  Generation after generation, the Champagne family has carried forward 
the values established in 1926. Today, the fourth generation stands 
ready to continue that legacy.
  Champagne's Marche stands as a testament to the enduring strength of 
Louisiana's family-owned businesses. They create jobs, support local 
farmers and producers, invest in our communities, and preserve our 
unique culture.
  Congratulations to the entire Champagne family on this achievement. 
May God continue to bless their family, employees, and customers.

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