Exclusive Interview with Louisiana Sue Ramon
Event Organizer of “West Sac Then & Now” – Celebrating 250 Years in West Sacramento
Interview by Sergey Ivannikov, Publisher of New Times Magazine
As West Sacramento prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with the community festival West Sac Then & Now, event producer Louisiana Sue Ramon is bringing together cultures, families, nonprofits, businesses, performers, and community leaders for a day of unity, entertainment, and connection. Known for her passion for community building and her Louisiana roots, Sue believes that diversity is America’s greatest strength and that live events create bonds that no digital platform can replace.
Sue, what inspired you to create the “West Sac Then & Now” celebration, and why was it important for you to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in this way?
The milestone of 250 years should celebrate what truly makes the United States special: our diversity. West Sacramento is a proud example of how many cultures come together, especially as a historic port city. The result is what I call a delicious gumbo of cultures. Our ingredients include Native American, Hispanic and Latin, Italian, German, Slavic, Asian Pacific, and Middle Eastern communities. Together, they create the unique flavor known as West Sacramento.
The event theme is “Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, Inspiring the Future.” What does this message mean to you personally, and how is it reflected throughout the event?
Growing up in New Orleans, I learned to recognize and embrace the beautiful blend of cultures that make up a community. I deeply value the rich histories of those who came before us, the importance of preserving traditions today, and the responsibility of building a better tomorrow. This event reflects all three of those values.
West Sacramento has a rich history and a diverse community. How did you incorporate the city’s unique culture and heritage into the celebration?
That part was actually easy. I invited every local cultural group I could find, with the help of the Mayor, community organizations, and partners like yours. The goal was simple: bring everyone together to celebrate who we are. We can sing, dance, play, eat, laugh, and enjoy our community gumbo together.
This event brings together entertainment, local businesses, nonprofits, families, and community leaders. Why was it important for you to create such a broad community gathering rather than simply another Fourth of July event?
I want to encourage all of us to stand together, just as it was intended. The saying “United we stand” may sound old fashioned, but it remains true. We should never allow anything to divide us again. We need opportunities to celebrate together and enjoy the richness of our community.
By the way, gumbo itself represents unity. The roux comes from the French, the vegetables from Spanish traditions, the word gumbo comes from Africa through okra, filé powder comes from Indigenous cultures, and rice came from China. Together, they create something wonderful.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while organizing a large scale event at Bridgeway Boathouse Park, and how did you overcome them?
The answer is simple: teamwork. The Mayor and her staff, local organizations, longtime friends, community partners, and volunteers all stepped up. With the help of West Sacramento’s many ingredients, we were able to make it happen.
The entertainment lineup includes youth performers, cultural dance groups, country music, ballet, Motown, blues, and more. What was your vision when selecting such a diverse program?
My vision was joy and fun for everyone. We reached out to talented people throughout West Sacramento and beyond. Many nonprofits, performers, and organizations that have supported family friendly events over the years came together to help create something special for the community.
One of the featured nonprofits is Fleur De Lis Charities. Why was it important to highlight nonprofit organizations as part of the celebration?
With so many expensive ticketed events today, nonprofit organizations are helping keep affordable family events alive. They are also building a spirit of giving back, which is essential for strong communities.
Many local businesses and sponsors supported this event. What role do community partnerships play in making events like this possible?
They make everything possible. Community partnerships create the feeling of family. The event becomes something bigger than any one person. It becomes a collective effort.
As an event producer, what do you believe live community events offer that social media and digital platforms can never fully replace?
Human interaction and a shared sense of belonging. A live event is a real experience. There is nothing artificial about it.
What impact do you hope this event will have on children and young people attending the celebration?
I hope they experience food, fun, family, and the belief that things can be better for all of us.
The event includes a dedicated children’s activity area and family games. How important is family engagement in your overall event planning philosophy?
Our events are always about family. Family is the most important thing.
You have organized numerous community events over the years. What lessons have you learned about bringing people together from different backgrounds and generations?
I have learned that we are far more alike than many people realize. When we come together and embrace each other for who we are, there is a feeling that makes you want more of it.
What moment or experience are you personally looking forward to the most during the “West Sac Then & Now” celebration?
As an event coordinator, I love seeing smiles and happy faces as people reconnect with old friends and make new ones. As a mother and grandmother, I especially love hearing children laugh and play together.
How do you see West Sacramento evolving over the next 25 years, and what role do community events play in shaping that future?
My hope is that we continue to protect the heart and soul of our community. Events like this help build caring, diverse experiences that can be passed on to many future generations.
For readers who may not yet know your story, what first inspired you to become an event producer and community builder?
I often describe myself this way: I grew up with a crawfish in my mouth, Mardi Gras in my heart, and Zydeco in my soul. I have always had a strong desire to share that spirit with others.
I started organizing events when I was sixteen years old. When I arrived in Sacramento, I learned that the historic Delta King Riverboat was coming to its new home. I rushed to Old Sacramento and watched it dock while cheering and celebrating. The Delta King is a true American treasure. I was surprised there was no brass band there to welcome it.
I mentioned that to people nearby and struck up a conversation with the late Lena Fat. One conversation led to another, and before long the first Sacramento Mardi Gras celebration was born. The rest, as they say, is history.
If there is one message you would like attendees to take home after spending the day at this celebration, what would it be?
I hope they leave saying, “That was so much fun. I can’t wait for the next one.”
Finally, what would you like to say to the sponsors, volunteers, performers, city leaders, and community members who helped make this event possible?
Thank you for all your support and for helping make the good times roll. Every volunteer, sponsor, performer, city leader, and community member played a role in making this celebration possible.
And the fun does not stop here. Join us next at The Great Gumbo Cook Off, coming this October at the California State Capitol.
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West Sac Then & Now: Celebrating 250 Years in West Sacramento will bring together culture, history, entertainment, family activities, local businesses, and community organizations in a day dedicated to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future. For Louisiana Sue Ramon, the event is more than a celebration. It is an invitation for the community to come together, embrace its diversity, and create new memories for generations to come.
