Throughout 2024, Aveyron has produced some unusual and uplifting news events, drawing attention to the region's vibrant spirit and cultural heritage. From remarkable personal milestones to notable honors, Aveyron's residents have made headlines.
A prime example of this festive vibrance is Raymonde Pack, who celebrated her 103rd birthday with not just one, but two adventurous dreams realized. On October 30, 2024, the beloved centenarian marked her birthday at the retirement home Maison de la Roussilhe, located in Entraygues-sur-Truyère. Raymonde took the adventurous step of getting her very first tattoo—a heartfelt tribute to her daughter Chantal—with her name emblazoned alongside a charming pansy flower on her arm.
This momentous occasion was made even more special due to Raymonde's other wish: to ride on a motorcycle. Demonstrators from Villefranche-de-Rouergue, Régis and Laurent, along with Jean-Luc from Clairvaux, responded to her family's social media call and arrived with their sidecar, eager to chauffeur Raymonde around the beautiful Lot region. "You’re going to miss out!" she jovially relayed to one of her granddaughters over the phone before embarking on this unique experience.
The motorcycle ride was no typical joyride; it held deep sentimental roots as it traced the path to the last home where Raymonde cherished memories from 1997 to 2013. With she and her daughter Chantal taking the ride, it was also somewhat of a family reunion. Passengers included several generations—children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren.
Back at the retirement home, Raymonde’s tattoo appointment took place at the shop of Charlotte, known as exkyz.tattoo. “It went very well; she didn’t even flinch!” Aveline Merrien, one of Raymonde's granddaughters, exclaimed with pride only moments after the tattoo was completed.
Raymonde's milestones mirror the sentiments shared by Dorothy Pollack, another centenarian who also opted for her first tattoo at age 103, along with a motorcycle ride for her own birthday celebrations. Such daring activities shed light on the lively spirit of aging, inspiring many to embrace life's opportunities regardless of their stage.
Meanwhile, Aveyron continues to garner attention beyond personal milestones to broader regional pride. A standout highlight from 2024 includes Air France’s special acknowledgment of the beautiful city of Rodez. An Airbus A320 aircraft, named after the city, has been part of their fleet since 2021, but it was only recently celebrated publicly on March 25, 2024.
The mayor of Rodez, Christian Teyssèdre, expressed delight at discovering the aircraft flying under the city's name, which serves as both promotion and celebration of regional heritage. This initiative by Air France, originally launched back in 2019, honors several iconic cities, and Rodez is proud to be among them.
Although the plane does not feature the local colors, the proud 'Rodez' inscription is prominently displayed, celebrating the city’s legacy and the air travel possibilities it presents for its residents. Air France officials jested, noting excitement over the chance for Aveyron residents to eventually travel on this airplane, quipping about the possibility of serving local dishes onboard. Nonetheless, it serves as both a reminder of the city's significance and as encouragement for future travelers.
This highlight is of note for anyone interested in aeronautics, as Aveyron has numerous businesses engaged with this industry, owing much of this reputation to figures like Roger Béteille—known affectionately as 'Monsieur Airbus'—who contributed significantly to the design of aircraft like the A320.
Through these vibrant stories, Aveyron reminds us of the uniqueness of life experiences and the important milestones worth celebrating, no matter one’s age or background. Raymonde Pack symbolizes the spirit of pursuing dreams—whether they involve getting inked or embarking on new journeys, and Aveyron’s newly honored Airbus serves as proof of the region’s pride and historical significance within aviation.
