The Stahl family dress the part at the CCFPG’s Western-themed annual corn roast, from l-r, Ken, Benjamin, Kim, and Sophie Stahl   250News photo

Prince George, BC – Gerry Bergeron was one of the many volunteers working to make Le Cercle des Canadiens Français de PG’s annual corn roast a cultural and culinary delight…

Last year’s event featured a partnership with the Prince George Symphony Orchestra, yesterday’s gathering in the gardens at the French Community Centre near Fort George Park took a country twist.

CCFPG Executive Director, Renee Trepanier, says approximately 100 volunteer hours go into the annual event that’s meant to not only re-connect the local francophone community, but share their traditions with the community at large, as well.

"It’s actually the best time of the year to renew contact with a lot of people," says Trepanier.  "There’s a lot of new teachers that we’re going to meet that are either working in the immersion programs in three (SD57) schools in Prince George, or in the francophone program.  And, for us, it’s just welcoming everyone back to work and to school."

Photo at left shows young friends (l-r), Elizabeth Batho, Mia Russell, and Nadine Finch, preparing to take their turn in the photo booth.

Trepanier says there are approximately 4000 French-speaking residents living in Prince George and the surrounding region.

"Our membership is about 300 people, but we provide services and programs to the whole region," she says.  "Like French conversation courses for adults, a preschool program that is open to everyone, and our cultural activities, as well."

Le Cercle is one of the partners on-board for the 2015 Canada Winter Games. 

Trepanier and board member, Myriam Gregoire, were part of the local team that travelled to Sherbrooke, Quebec to observe the 2013 Summer Games.

Gregoire was manning a Games information booth at the corn roast, hoping to recruit volunteers, in general, along with those willing to provide translation services during the upcoming local games. (click here, for more information)

In addition to hearty, harvest food like corn and chili, yesterday’s event also featured games, prizes for best costumes, entertainment and line dancing.

Photos below show Luke Deyaeger (left) and Jericho Dickenson, both 7, enjoying the ’round up.