Emmeline Meyer, Joan of Arc 2023, is our first recipient of the Cultural Scholarship to visit Orléans France. She spoke to our club Nov 8 and elaborated on sites she visited and the hospitality our siter city club showed her and her parents who traveled with her. She showed slides of the many Jeanne d’Arc statues, stained glass and historic markers throughout the city and surrounding area. I think everyone was ready to plan a trip to visit Orléans.
We will welcome Clarvie Quesne, the French Jeanne d’Arc, to New Orleans January 3. The two young pages, Maximillien and Theophile, who met Emmeline and developed a close friendship asked if they could come as well. Bernard, our Rotary contact, wrote to ask if we would accommodate the young boys on the visit and I immediately said “yes”. Madame Baranger, the Pres of the Jeanne d’Arc Assoc and her husband will be traveling to New Orleans also. A full week of sightseeing is planned to introduce them to our French culture and emphasize the French heritage we share with Orléans.
The French guests will walk in the Krewe of Joan of Arc parade on Jan 6. Rotarians will volunteer in the Restoration Battalion as monks and will carry signs that tell the story of Joan. Special souvenir cards recognizing Rotary will be passed out to the parade watchers along the route. Also watch for handmade “throws” such as ornaments, necklaces, pins, matches, swords, prayer cards, and many other unique Joan themed souvenirs. Please make plans to visit the French Quarter on Jan 6 and see the parade which begins at 7 pm. This is the first parade and the official start of Mardi Gras. Jan 6 is celebrated and believed to be Joan’s birthday.
Are you a bit unsure of the history surrounding this peasant girl who saved the kingdom of France from English domination. Check out the life story of Saint Jeanne d’Arc, The Maid of Orleans 1412-1431.
https://www.jeanne-darc.info/biography/overview/
How Can you Support Our Rotary Exchange?
- Donate to NORFI and designate the funds to support the Joan of Arc exchange.
- Buy a pack of 4 custom designed note cards available for $20
- Purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win a bottle of 2010 Chateau Grand-Pontet, Saint Emilion Grand Cru, France
- Volunteer to help with plans for the visit Jan 3-Jan 9. Various opportunities.
Contact Gayle Dellinger GBDell@aol.com
