Danielle's big, big special day

Franco-feirs, Francophone pride, is to Danielle Baril what water is to a fish.

Although she's only two years old, Danielle already knows who Saint Jean Baptiste is and what's important about Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day.

At least, what's important to her.

That would be dancing, face painting and candy.

All those things and more were shared Saturday at the Roberta Bondar Pavilion as part of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day.

This year's celebration was even more special because it also marked the 30th anniversary of le Centre Francophone, says Danielle's mom Lise Joyal, who just happens to be the president of the centre.

They celebrated by sharing a giant cake with Saultites and dancing the day away with local francophone bands and a special appearance in the evening of Nuit from Dubreuilville.

The celebration of Saint Jean Baptiste, the patron saint of francophones who protects francophone families and society at large, is held to remind francophones to be dutiful citizens, to fight for their rights and remember their past, Joyal said.

"We honour our ancestors and share our culture and history with our children and other cultures in Sault Ste. Marie," she said.

Yesterday, they also hosted alpacas from the Martin farm and offered children an opportunity to complete some crafts.

Sault Ste. Marie City Councillors Lorena Tridico (Ward 4) and Frank Fata (Ward 5) also participated with the Francophone Community in the celebration.

Both Fata and Tridco agree that this is a wonderful cultural event that brings the whole Community together.

There was a barbecue going on all day, Franco-fiers merchandise for sale and music for everyone's enjoyment and to help unite and provide support for all Francophones in the Sault and area.