WMPG organized its Ninth Annual Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras Party last Tuesday. While people were partying in the campus center, WMPG was grooving to cool Cajun tunes all day.
“As WMPG has some of the most knowledgeable Cajun music DJ’s in the area, we play nothing but Mardi Gras music all day starting at 6:30 AM” said Tom Flynn, WMPG development director.
At 11 AM the Cajun cooking challenge was offered at the Woodbury Campus Center. “We used to host this party in the studio, but then it got real crowded and this is the second year since we have moved it to Campus Center,” said Flynn.
About 700 people came, dined, danced and voted. More than 100 gallons of traditional New Orleans style food was donated by local restaurants and volunteers. Sampling was free, and tasters voted South Portland’s Joe’s Boathouse the best.
“It’s fun, that’s what it is. It’s a good way to get us out of the house in the middle of the winter,” said a representative from Joe’s.
All day the room was filled with laughter, fine music and excellent food. “This is the first time I am attending a Cajun party and I love it — such a nice event,” said James Donague, a USM student.
“This event has lots of cultural diversity. It’s a great social gathering and a great way to meet new people and enjoy the music,” said Shawn Loura a local activist.
Later that evening the campus cafeteria filled with people of all ages to listen to the live Zydeco music born in New Orleans. The performance was staged by Leroy Thomas and the Zydeco Roadrunners. They were playing a traditional Cajun instrument, a steel washboard and an accordion, with the colors of American flag.
“It’s loud and festive, everyone’s having a memorable time. That’s the way USM always should be,” said Graduate student Krina Patel.
“We organized this event with Portland Events Board and ARAMARK. This is our way of thanking USM,” said Flynn.
Nino Kemoklidze can be contacted at [email protected].