LAKE ARTHUR, La. (AP) — Nearly 30 downtown business owners and local residents are forming a merchants association to attract visitors and business to the town.

The American Press reports (http://bit.ly/cseYHv ) business owner Joanna LeJeune has been elected president of the merchants association.

The group plans to promote family-oriented events that including harvest season festivals, a homecoming reception, Christmas season shopping and gardening festivals.

Mayor Robert Bertrand said the association should be a plus for Lake Arthur.

The association is open to local merchants and individuals in Lake Arthur and the surrounding area. Its next meeting will be at 6 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Town Hall.

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Information from: American Press, http://www.americanpress.com