Ascension Advocate 12-03-2025

VFW hosts cook-off and market popup

BY WENDY LOUP

Darlene Denstorff AROUND ASCENSION

The Ascension Parish libraries’ trees need ornaments and they’re asking for help.

Stop by any Ascension Parish Library location in December, choose a paper ornament, decorate it and find the perfect spot to hang it. When you’re done, grab a thank-you treat.

While you’re at a library branch, make sure to register for a library card. It’s the perfect gift for you or anyone in your family Sign up and get instant access to the library’s Adventure Passes to visit a museum or nature center

Snow Ball for babies, toddlers

The Ascension Parish Library is planning its Snow Ball a winter soiree for its tiniest stars — for babies and toddlers.

The celebration at three branches includes music, dancing, photo ops and a keepsake. Come cozy and casual or dressed to impress in your holiday best.

The events are at 10 a.m. Thursday at Gonzales, Dec. 13 at Dutchtown and Dec. 17 at Galvez.

Gonzales tree lighting

The 32nd annual Gonzales Tree Lighting Celebration is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at Gonzales City Hall and Jambalaya Park.

Santa and the Grinch are expected, and music and lights will be featured.

Classic Cars 4

Register your classic car for the Classic Cars 4 Christmas Crusade from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Bass Pro Shops, 2200 W. Cabela’s Parkway, in Gonzales. Registration fee is $30.

The event will include music, food and cars.

A Taste of Christmas Christmas shopping, music, photos with Santa and other activities are planned from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Duplessis Park on La. 621.

A Taste of Christmas is sponsored by Bearded Events.

Mystery Box Giveaway

The holiday spirit will be in full force from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday at Gonzales Municipal Park, 911 Meylan St., for Tankproof’s seventh annual Christmas Mystery Box Giveaway The event is hosted by TheBrosFresh and Shayla Washington, 4 Skyz Da Limit. A hot meal will be served, 150 turkeys given away and gifts given.

Farmers Market

The monthly Donaldsonville Farmers Market

Contributing writer

Jambalaya pots overflowed while holiday shoppers perused for gifts during VFW Post 3693’s Vet Jam and Pop Up at the Post Fall Market on Nov 15 in Gonzales.

The 11th annual Vet Jam consisted of a dozen cooks competing in a jambalaya cook-off while the post’s auxiliary hosted a market featuring 36 vendors. The dual event is one of many fundraisers the post hosts throughout the year Proceeds go to the post’s contri-

butions to helping veterans. Cooks began sizzling their pots at 7 a.m. The pots were required to include 5 pounds of pork and sausage. While the jambalaya was cooking, shoppers explored the booths both inside and outside of the post with vendors selling accessories, homemade crafts and baked goods.

“We have a little bit of everything,” Pop Up at the Post organizer Leah Nolen said. “We have sweets, baked goods, cosmetics, nail accessories soaps and much more.”

Also pictured are Heidi Henry, center, and 2-year-old Adam Henry.

Band together

Community news report

The Chris LeBlanc Band played a variety of swamp pop, blues and classic rock Nov 16 during Gonzales’ Music in the Park. Around 150 people listened and danced while Louisiana Music Hall of Famer Chris LeBlanc played on the stage while food trucks from 3J’s Smoke Shack and Huh Bruh sold dinner plates at Jambalaya Park for the event hosted by Gonzales. For information about Gonzales events, visit gonzalesla.com.

RPCC plans to open training center

BY CHRISTOPHER CARTWRIGHT Staff writer

A planned River Parishes Community College training center in Donaldsonville is moving closer to construction with a roughly $450,000 purchase of land for the new facility Located along La. 945, the new campus aims to train the future workforce for proposed industrial projects in the region, including a planned $5.8 billion Hyundai steel mill. Louisiana Community and Technical College System paid around $454,000 last week for the 20-acre site, according to documents filed with the Ascension Parish Clerk of Court. It is estimated to open in late 2027, Chancellor Quintin Taylor said Monday “We’re taking every single community on the west bank and the east bank into consideration,” he said, adding that the center hopes to attract students from Ascension, Assumption, St. James, St. John the Baptist and Iberville parishes.

“Our hope is that they will flood this facility so that they get the training needed to go to work,” Taylor said. “Our goal in this is that we train local, we hire local and that way we’re able to change the local communities by investing in them and their education.”

Taylor said the center’s total cost will be around $30 million, funded via state appropriation bills Hyundai, which plans to build a mill near the small

Bulldogs headed to semis

Louisiana.

James has high praise for his senior and how he has handled all the attention.

“Trevin is humble, gives all the credit to his teammates and coaches. He is having a dream season, but he knows there is more work to do. His leadership with this senior class has been really good; these kids pull for each other,” James said.

Ascension Catholic trailed 36-28 at the half but opened the third quarter with a touchdown drive to tie the game. Catholic High took the lead again with its only touchdown of the second half.

The Bulldogs got two key turnovers in the second half with linebacker Raif Melancon stripping quarterback Jude Morrison at midfield. Defensive lineman Vaughn Blanchard recovered a Morrison fumble late in the fourth quarter to help seal the win.

Josh Barber and quarterback Greg Fernandez added rushing touchdowns for Ascension Catholic. The Bulldog offensive line, tight end and receivers have

ATT Expo Market set for Lamar-Dixon

Community news report

The ATT Expo Market is returning Dec. 12-14 with its Gonzales Holiday Market Show at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center.

The market features booths for shoppers to browse for jewelry, home decor, apparel and holiday merchandise

RPCC

Continued from page 1G

Tickets for the holiday market are $10 per day or $25 for a weekend pass and can be purchased online at attexpomarket.com or at the Lamar-Dixon ticket office.

LEBOUF

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seeded Westminster Christian in the semifinals.

New this year, if you purchase tickets online, you’re automatically entered into a $250 drawing. Returning this year is a ladies’ night, “Jingle & Mingle,” from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 12.

community of Modeste, has been working with Taylor and the college to help design training specific to the mill.

“We’ve worked in collaboration with Hyundai over the last six to eight months, specifically where we have developed, at a very high level, a two-year associate degree that will lead to mechanical, electrical or advanced manufacturing,” he said That training will build on the curriculum the college already offers, and Taylor emphasized that the center intends to prepare residents for all industrial jobs, not just the proposed steel mill.

“We didn’t want to train a workforce to one specific industry, aka steel,” he said. “We wanted to make sure that we had and trained people across a diverse industry entry point.”

Ronda Matthews, supervisor of career and technical education for the Ascension Parish School Board, called the training center “fantastic.”

“We want to keep our citizens here,” she said. “We want them to have a good living here, and I feel like this is a move, a positive move for the future.”

Matthews helped bring similar classes to Donaldsonville High School, which offers welding and other training to both students and adults. Once the center opens, high school students will likely have a dual enrollment option with the campus.

“We have been working with RPCC for several years,” she said. “It goes way back. We’ve had a fantastic partnership with them.”

Significant changes

The Donaldsonville area is at the center of massive economic investment, as multiple companies have announced plans to build facilities there.

Beyond Hyundai’s plans, CF Industries and the Texas-based Ascension Clean Energy have proposed ammonia plants, and industrial gases and engineering company Linde announced plans for a $400 million air separation unit to support the

VFW

Continued from page 1G

The pop-up markets hosted at the post are becoming bigger and building in popularity Nolen added.

“The auxiliary is the biggest advocate for what the VFW does,” Nolen said. “We are hoping to recruit more members today, but also the money raised today will go to the VFW The pop-ups are a great way to showcase local vendors.”

Customers were drawn to Suzanne Bourgeois’ acrylic paintings, which included holiday themes such as Christmas trees and poinsettias.

Bourgeois has owned Art by Suzanne for 10 years. She has painted off and on for decades.

She paints on assorted items such as glass, mirrors, picture frames and canvas.

“I’ve been a hairdresser for 40 years,” Bourgeois said. “But I love painting so much. I can’t help

CF Industries facility

The market is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec 12-13 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 14.

“Christmas will be here before you know it so it’s not too early to start planning to attend our Gonzales Holiday Market in early December to find great gift ideas,” said ATT Expo Market CEO Laura Rowe. “We’ve got some tremendous holiday offerings in store and this market will give everyone the perfect opportunity to take advantage of amazing shopping deals during the most wonderful time of the year.”

While local leaders and some residents have welcomed the news, saying it will bring jobs and revitalize a long-neglected area, many people living near the sites have pushed back against the proposals over health and safety concerns. More recently, residents expressed shock and dismay after two former sharecropper cabins were torn down in an area planned for development.

Those debates will likely converge at a Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality hearing for the proposed CF Industries plant on Nov. 20 in Donaldsonville.

Beyond corporate announcements, south Donaldsonville is poised for large changes, beginning with the new college campus. The training center land is adjacent to property purchased earlier this year by the Prevost Memorial Hospital and that hospital’s board is discussing plans to construct a facility on that site.

Meanwhile, the Ascension Parish Planning Commission recently adopted a strategic plan to guide development around Donaldsonville, focusing on areas south of the city along both sides of Bayou Lafourche. Designed after a survey and a series of community meetings, the West Bank Small Area Plan has identified potential sites for businesses and residents.

Officials are also discussing extending La. 3127 through south Donaldsonville and up toward La. 1, according to the small-area plan document.

Taylor said the upcoming training center was an opportunity to ensure residents have access to jobs at the Hyundai plant and beyond.

“I can’t stress enough how important it is that the community understands that this is their opportunity, this is our chance, to make sure that communities on the west bank have an opportunity to access these jobs,” he said. “And so, while (Hyundai’s) plant won’t be open until sometime in ’29, our goal is to start training people as quickly as possible.”

Email Christopher Cartwright at christopher.cartwright@theadvocate. com.

For information on the Gonzales Holiday Market, visit attexpomarket.com or call (630) 320-6720.

AROUND

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cents a pound. Drop off pecans from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday at 1122 S. East Ascension Complex Blvd. in Gonzales. For information, call (225) 6212000.

Food distributions set Ascension Parish’s commodity distribution is set for the second Tuesday of each month in Donaldsonville and the second Wednesday of the month in Gonzales.

Distributions are from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Frank Sotile Jr Pavilion in Donaldsonville and the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales.

All recipients must prequalify at the Ascension Parish Health Unit, 1024 E. Ascension Complex Blvd., in Gonzales, or Donaldsonville courthouse, 300 Houmas St. Contact Layne Melancon at (225) 4501006 or layne.melancon@fmolhs. org.

Babysitting workshop

Girls in grades five to 12 are invited to a free course led by the Louisiana Firefighters Foundation teaching safety skills and responsibilities.

The workshop will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Girl Scout DreamLab, 3005 W. Cabela’s Parkway Suite J, in Gonzales. Most of the Cadette Babysitting Badge steps will be completed during this workshop, which is free, but preregistration is requested at tinyurl.com/37bet5x3.

Contact Darlene Denstorff by phone, (225) 388-0215 or (225) 603-1998; or email, ascension@ theadvocate.com or ddenstorff@ theadvocate.com. Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday

myself. Painting is in my soul; it’s everything to me I see something, and I want to paint it.”

Customers enjoy Bourgeois’ prints of local churches and buildings such as the Houmas House Turtle Bar

The Pop Up at the Post gave

been really good in helping Simon pile up yards, which has not gone unnoticed.

“It’s a total team thing; the whole unit has improved each week,” said James. “Trevin gets the headlines, but he acknowledges that it would not be possible without the other 10 guys.”

The Bulldog defense got some needed stops in the second half. Linebacker John Rob Daigle led with 13 tackles, followed by Melancon and defensive lineman Chris Anthens with 12. Anthens had a monster night with four tackles behind the line.

Defensive back Shane Aucoin and defensive end Kole Folse had three tackles behind the line. Ascension Catholic will now turn its attention to the top-

TALE OF THE TAPE

ACHS Bulldogs (10-2), 5 seed

PLAYOFF RESULTS: 62-9 over St. Mary, 50-42 over CHSPC HEAD COACH: Taylor James OFFENSE: Spread, Multiple DEFENSE: 4-2-5, Multiple KEY PLAYERS: RB Trevin Simon, QB Greg Fernandez, OL/DL Vaughn Blanchard,TE/ DL Chris Anthens,WR Johnny Viallon,WR Cy Landry, DB Jacob Julien, LB John Rob Daigle, LB Raif Melancon, DB Shane Aucoin, DL Kole Folse, DL/RB Josh Barber

ACHS runs the football behind a very good offensive line that has improved each week Simon has been really good after contact, with explosive runs that have resulted in touchdowns. QB Greg Fernandez has managed the offense nicely, making good decisions. The defense has improved and has been able to produce takeaways. The defensive line has veterans with plenty games played, they have been solid. Julien and Aucoin led the secondary The kicking game is solid with Mikie Blanchard.

Bourgeois and other vendors the opportunity to display their creative talents.

Monograms by Ambs owner Amber Jackson sold her monogrammed stationery, T-shirts and accessories. Jackson, who lives in Geismar

has owned her monogram business for nine years.

“I started my business when I began making wreaths,” Jackson said.

“I saw ones being sold on Etsy, and I thought they were too expensive. I made wreaths and then bought an embroidery machine. I started get-

The Bulldogs travel to Opelousas on Friday; the winner advances to the state finals at the Caesars Superdome.

“This will be a big challenge for our team; they (Westminster Christian) are No. 1 for a reason,” James said. “Will need to be sharp and take care of the football. The kids will be excited for the opportunity to compete.” This will be the third semifinal appearance for the Bulldogs in the last four years. The Bulldogs last played for a state championship in 2017-18, finishing as runner-up to Lafayette Christian.

Troy LeBoeuf covers sports for the Ascension Advocate. He can be reached at troyleboeuf@ hotmail.com or ascension@theadvocate. com or on X, @Troyleboeuf.

Westminster Christian Academy Crusaders (12-0), 1 seed

PLAYOFF RESULTS: 48-35 over Opelousas Catholic, 5222 over St. Edmund

HEAD COACH: Byron Porter

OFFENSE: Spread, Multiple DEFENSE: 4-2-5, Multiple

KEY PLAYERS: QB Stephen George, RB/LB Kyle Horde, RB/TE/LB Jack Hunt,WR Branson Ray, OL Jayden Johnson, DL Tonnerick Hayes, OL/DL Matthew Lalonde, K/P Mac Proffitt WCA is undefeated and has not had many close games. They want to spread the football out to their weapons on offense. Horde is big back that is strong and fast inside and out. The offensive and defensive lines have dominated at times; this is a strength. The defense is fast at each level; they create pressure with blitzes and stunts. QB George is a dual threat runner and thrower, he can create plays with his feet and has a big arm, very dangerous player The kicking game is solid with Proffitt.

ting orders and that just grew over the years.”

Jackson said events like the VFW market help her promote her business while also getting to know the community

“I enjoy meeting people,” Jackson said. “The markets are a place I can show my creativity to other people The monogramming is a creative outlet for me.”

The post is continuing to expand on fundraisers and events such as Swamp Pop Sundays featuring musical entertainment.

With fundraising needed to help pay for veterans’ services, the post often hosts out-of-the-box fundraisers such as the recent “A Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne: Iron Legacy” and a VHS Wrestling night.

The post is welcoming the Christmas season by hosting Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 6. The event will include pancakes, pictures with Santa Claus, family activities and games.

For information about VFW Post 3693, visit vfw3693.org.

High school seniors invited to apply for REV scholarship

Community news report

REV is opening its annual academic scholarship application early for all graduating high school seniors.

Eligible seniors living in REV’s service regions can begin applying online before the Feb. 11 deadline

The REV Scholarship program helps students cover college expenses — including tuition, housing, books and more — throughout their college years, thereby reducing the financial burden that often accompanies a college education.

“We are proud and hon-

ored to carry on the 42-year legacy of REV’s commitment to education through our local scholarship program,” REV CEO Josh Descant said. “By empowering and investing in the next generation of leaders, we are helping students — building the foundation for a stronger, brighter future for south Louisiana. Since its inception in 1984, the REV academic scholarship program has awarded over $1 million in financial assistance to 247 local graduating high school seniors. In 2025, REV expanded the scholarship program to in-

clude eligible seniors in all service regions, encouraging more students to apply

“As we continue to grow and serve more local communities, we anticipate even more students applying this year,” said Tressy Leindecker, REV’s executive vice president of sales and marketing. “Our selection committee does a phenomenal job of reading through numerous applications, interviewing incredible students across our service area, and ultimately selecting the scholarship recipients. Every year these graduating applicants

Ascension schools support staffers earn recognition

Community news report

Ascension Public Schools honored its top-performing support staff by naming Support Personnel of the Year for 2025-26.

Employees were selected by their respective school peers. All honorees will be recognized before an Ascension Parish School Board meeting at 5 p.m. April 21 at St. Amant High School.

“Our outstanding school support employees are the heartbeat of Ascension Public Schools. These dedicated men and women strengthen the positive culture that ignites learning for our 24,000 students every single day,” said Ascension Public Schools Superintendent Edith Walker “They are the calm guides, the welcoming smiles, and the behind-thescenes fixers who help ensure every student can succeed. We are deeply grateful for their service and proud to celebrate them this year.”

Primary school

n Shelly Landry, Ascension Head Start

n Jessica Ickles, Bluff Ridge Primary

n Tiffany Grant, Bullion Primary

n Lori Bureau, G.W Carver Primary

n Kelsi Lambert, Central Primary

n Cry st al G au tr ea u, Duplessis Primary n Makenzie Doner, Dutchtown Primary n Keisha Soniat, Galvez Primary

n Tamika Jackson, Gonzales Primary n Haleigh Hughes, Lake Elementary

n Katie Green, Lakeside Primary

n Jennifer Valentine, Lowery Elementary n Claire Latour, Oak Grove Primary

n Calice Babin, Pecan Grove Primary

n Kelly Diaz, Prairieville Primary

n Latisha Meads, Sorrento Primary

n Brayelle Balfantz, Spanish Lake Primary

n Brittany Loupe, St. Amant Primary

n Cortney Brabham, Sugar Mill Primary

Middle school

n Bruce Million, Bluff

Middle

n Karen Matherne, Central Middle

n Jana Bumstead, Dutchtown Middle

n Alex Templet, Galvez

Middle

n Chloe Silva, Gonzales

Middle

n Deshay Savoy, Lake Elementary

n Erin Becnel, Lowery

Middle

n Jason Carrillo, Prairieville Middle

n Trish Little, St. Amant

Middle

High school

n Eric Davis, APPLe Digital Academy

n Claudine Brown, Donaldsonville High

n Daphne Domingue, Dutchtown High

n Danielle Jenkins, East Ascension High

n Lizzie Johnson, Prairieville High

n Kasey Triche, St. Amant

High

n Natali Aucoin, Early College Option

Students of the Year honored

Community news report

Ascension Public Schools announced the 2025-26 Students of the Year for fifth, eighth and 12th grades.

“We could not be more proud of our Students of the Year,” said Ascension schools Superintendent Edith Walker “Each of these incredible young people has distinguished themselves through hard work and character, and they are shining examples of the 24,000 diverse, talented students who make up our district.”

Fifth grade

n Maxton Reyes, Bluff Ridge Primary School

n Ryan Sweeney, Bullion Primary School

n Sydney Benton, Central Primary School

n Sophie Albarado, Duplessis Primary School

n Elliot Savoy, Dutchtown Primary School

n Julius Darville, G.W Carver Primary School

n Tatum West, Galvez Primary School

n Koi Lee, Gonzales Primary School

n Lacey Gonzales, Lake Elementary School

n Lincoln Ipso, Lakeside Primary School

n Jye’Lyn Williams, Lowery Elementary School

n Julianna Olivier, Oak Grove Primary School

n Jayden Chase Marks, Pecan Grove Primary School

n Claire French, Prairieville Primary School

n Joshua Gautreau, Sorrento Primary School

n Adeline Odom, Spanish Lake Primary School

n Ava Hotard, St. Amant Primary School

n Remi Gros, Sugar Mill Primary School

Eighth grade

n Allie Davidson, Bluff Middle School

n Cecelia Lambert, Central Middle School

n Evan Gautreaux, Dutchtown Middle School

n Finlei Bourgeois, Galvez Middle School

n Darinae Bergeron, Gonzales Middle School

n Remi Gautreau, Lake Elementary School

n Katelynn August, Lowery Middle School

n Scarlett Morales, Prairieville Middle School

n Brylee Trabeau, St. Amant Middle School 12th grade

n Zyon Davis, Donaldsonville High School

n Jackson Clack, Dutchtown High School

n Alex Guillot, East Ascension High School

raise the bar with their academic achievements and dedication to lasting community service.”

Eligibility for REV’s scholarship program is based on several criteria, including being a current REV residential customer in good standing and living within a REV service area. Additional considerations include cumulative GPA, ACT scores, financial need, demonstrated leadership and community involvement.

Applicants are required to submit an essay as part of the application process.

Rescue Alliance signs lease for new location

Donations are being accepted

Communit news report

Rescue Alliance has signed the lease on its new Rescue Center, expanding on the organization’s mission to save and serve homeless cats and kittens throughout the region.

The new center will expand Rescue Alliance’s

capacity to provide safe shelter, medical care and lifesaving services. Over the next week, the organization’s team and volunteers will begin preparing the facility for operation as they await the issuance of required permits.

“This is a transformational step for Rescue Alliance and for the animals we serve,” said Director Jonathan Henriques. “Our community has stood by

Oct.

Sheriff Webre speaks at GOP roundtable

n Oliver Foret, St. Amant High School

n Adyson Naquin, Prairieville High School

In order to be considered for the Student of the Year process, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.1. The school-level coordinator submits all students in fifth, eighth and 12th grades who meet the initial criteria.

Teachers are asked to vote for students on the list based on the child’s academics, behavior and leadership qualities. The school-level coordinator selects the students with the top votes to enter the school-level competition.

Asmallcommitteeofschool staff and stakeholders is assembled to score students based on test scores, grades, a portfolio and an interview

The student with the highest committee score is named the school’s Student of the Year

A district winner will be selected for each level. The district winners will be entered into a zone-level competition, and from there, if chosen in early January, they will move on to the regional competition. Winners from the state’s regional competition will be named in March.

To see each school’s student of the year visit ascensionschools.org/SOY

Community news report

In October, the Ascension Republican Women welcomed Ascension Parish Sheriff Robert “Bobby” Webre as the keynote speaker at the October Ascension GOP Roundtable.

RPCC adult education students inducted into Honor Society

Community news report

River Parishes Community College recently recognized 12 adult education students during an induction ceremony for the National Adult Education Honor Society at the college’s Reserve Campus.

The National Adult Education Honor Society was established to celebrate adult learners who demonstrate exemplary qualities that contribute to their academic success and the success of others, a news release said. Students are nominated by their instructors based on three key criteria: outstanding attendance, strong work ethic and leadership within the Adult Education program. Fall 2025 inductees were Kathryn Barney McKinzie

RPCC

Brisco, Jerome Cazaubon, Denise Chopin-Turner, Ivana Coleman, Lynette Lane, Lexxton Abel, Yulanda Montgomery, Nadia Ryan, Quincey Seamster, Ashley Solomon and Marna Wilson.

“These students embody the perseverance, dedication, and determination that define the heart of Adult Education,” said RPCC Adult Education Director Sarina Lirette. “Their achievements reflect the strength of our community and the transformative power of lifelong learning.”

RPCC’s Adult Education program provides free services including high school equivalency preparation, English as a second language instruction, digital literacy training, and college and career readiness support.

financial aid director named Woman of the Year

Brittany Terrio, director of financial aid at River Pari sh es Community College, has been honored as the 2025 Woman of the Year by the Louisiana Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators

The award recognized Terrio’s outstanding contributions to publications and conference planning during the SWASFAA and LASFAA Super Conference, held Nov 5-7 in New Orleans. In addition, Terrio was recently elected second vice president of LASFAA, where

she will play a key role in implementing organizational changes aimed at expanding training opportunities — particularly those focused on professional development for financial aid directors — and leading a rebranding initiative for the association.

“I am truly honored to have been named the 2025 Woman of the Year by an organization that has supported and inspired me throughout my financial aid career,” Terrio said. “I am excited to continue contributing to LASFAA in my role as second vice president and look forward to the opportunities ahead, both in my own professional journey and in the meaningful impact this work will have at RPCC and across the broader financial aid community.”

The following people were booked into the Ascension Parish Jail on Nov 13-20: Nov. 13

MAYERS, ZANE: 30086 Hunnington Place, Walker; 31; state probation violation, examination of applicants required-classes of license, driving on divided highways, driving on roadway laned for traffic, aggravated obstruction of a highway of commerce, flight from an officer, aggravated, when passing on the right is permitted LEWIS, QUANEISHA M.: 128 L+L Court, Edgard; 34; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, failure to appear-bench warrant BELL, JOYEAU DESHAY: 13278 Babin Ave., Gonzales; 33; three counts failure to appear-bench warrant, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction FERGUSON, JEREMY JERALD: 1202 Maximillian St., Baton Rouge; 35; obstruction of justice/all others, criminal mischief/giving of any false report or complaint to a sheriff or his deputies or to any officer of the law COEN, PARKER: 903 Green St., Alexandria, Virginia; 20; careless operation operating while intoxicated-second CARTER, TONY ANTHONY: 18014 Autumn View Drive No. 5, Prairieville; 26; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction LESSING, LORNA: 12464 Forest Braud Lane, Gonzales; 60; distribution/possession with the intent to distribute Schedule IV controlled dangerous substance, distribution/possession with intent to distribute Schedule II controlled dangerous substance

THOMAS, FREDERICK: 2119 St. Louis St., Lutcher; 35; theft less than $1,000, failure to return leased moveable obtaining by false representationover $1,000 PENA, BRICE M.: 18644 Broussard Road, Prairieville; 29; prohibited acts-drug paraphernalia, possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance, state probation violation, failure to appear-bench warrant

WASHBURN, JESSICA QUEEN: address unknown; 38; breach of bail condition, failure to appear-bench warrant, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction possession of marijuana less than 14 grams, prohibited acts-drug paraphernalia, possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (methamphetamine), possession of a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance HENRY, CHASE MICHAEL: 41149 La. 42, Prairieville; 19; hit-and-run driving, failure to appear-bench warrant, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, injuring public records

Nov. 14

MCCHESNEY, PATRICK SHANE: 10037

La. 22 No. 7, St. Amant; 39; domestic abuse battery-child endangerment

ALSAY, MAKALIA SHANTRELL: 118 Oakridge Ave. Unit D, Donaldsonville;

Exhibit showcases SLU seniors

Community news report

The Southeastern Louisiana University Contemporary Art Gallery’s fall Senior Exhibition featuring artworks created by graduating students in the Department of Visual Art + Design is on display through Dec. 13. Gallery Director Tabitha Nikolai said the “Senior Student Exhibition” celebrates the talent, creativity and hard work of art and design students who will graduate in December Multiple

ranges of media, including painting, sculpture, animation, printmaking, graphic design and theater design are represented in the show

Each artwork reflects the artistic perspectives, interests and skills of the graduating students, she said.

“The exhibition gives the senior students a chance to show off their creations in a professional gallery setting and showcase their talent for the benefit of the local community, faculty, family, friends, and art enthusiasts,” Nikolai said. “It

also serves as a platform for students to engage with the public, create contacts, extend their resume and receive feedback on their artwork.”

Students exhibiting artwork include Kolby Adams, of Marrero; Cailey Aucoin and Madison Hopcraft, of Denham Springs; Emma Babin, of St. Amant; Haleigh Babin and Roe Marsh, of Walker; Chelsea Emerson and Mia Gordon, of Hammond; Nicholas Fefee and Kaitlin Mars, of Baton Rouge; Lainey Gaubert, of

Anna Whitman tapped as assistant principal at Dutchman Primary

Community news report

Anna Whitman is the new assistant principal of Dutchtown Primary School, Ascension Public Schools announced.

“It is inspiring when our students return to teach the next generation of learners,” Ascension Parish schools Superintendent Edith M. Walker said. “I look forward to seeing all that Ms. Whitman and the Dutchtown Primary team will continue to accomplish together as they nurture students, support staff, and carry on the school’s strong tra-

dition of excellence.”

Whitman attended Dutchtown Primary, Dutchtown Middle and Dutchtown High schools before earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from LSU and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Southeastern Louisiana University Whitman began her career with Ascension schools in 2015 as a fourth and fifth grade teacher at Spanish Lake Primary She went on to serve as a mentor teacher at Duplessis Primary from 2018-21, and most recent-

ly as a master teacher at both Duplessis Primary and Lakeside Primary from 2021-25.

“Thank you to everyone who has entrusted me with this opportunity,”

Whitman said. “My educational journey began right here in Ascension at Dutchtown Primary, so this role is truly near and dear to my heart. It is my hope that every Eagle thrives during these foundational years and feels empowered to reach their fullest potential, no matter where their dreams may lead.

“I look forward to watching our students and staff continue to grow and succeed together.”

Phi Kappa Phi elects new Honor Society members

Community news report

Two Prairieville students have been elected to membership into the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi.

University of Alabama and Prairieville students

Ashleigh Harold and Mindy Shattuck were named to the invitationonly group.

Only the top 10% of seniors and 7.5% of juniors are eligible for membership.

Phi Kappa Phi was

ASCENSION PARISH BOOKINGS

25; disturbing the peace/language/ disorderly conduct, simple battery WHITE, WILLIAM DEAN: 14187 Martin Moran Road, Gonzales; 43; reckless operation, operating while intoxicated-first

SCOTT, TIRZAH MARIE: 6610 La. 47

Apt. 106, St. Gabriel; 38; distribution/ possession with the intent to distribute Schedule III controlled dangerous substance (suboxone), criminal conspiracy, manufacture/distribution/possession with the intent to distribute Schedule I controlled dangerous substance, criminal conspiracy, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, failure to appear-bench warrant, contraband defined-certain activities regarding contraband in penal institutions prohibited

EVANS, JONATHAN ANTHONY: 631 N. 31st St., Baton Rouge; 33; theft $1,000 but less than $5,000

MCKEY, BRANDON CHASE: 12946 Bayberry Ave., Denham Springs; 40; security required, following vehicles, hit-and-run driving

MARTIN, JAKOBI SAM: 2138 S. Commerce Ave., Gonzales; 18; disturbing the peace/simple assault

JOHNSON, TYRONE JERMAINE: 40472 Barden Road, Gonzales; 47; failure to appear-bench warrant

Nov. 15

MORRIS JR., BRIAN: 44547 Braud St., Sorrento; 36; security required, careless operation, operating while intoxicated-second

PREJEAN, TERRY JOSEPH: 38038 La. 22, Darrow; 35; domestic abuse battery

LEBLANC, LEROY JUNIORS: 1311 Bryant St., Donaldsonville; 37; fugitiveother Louisiana jurisdiction, three counts, failure to appear-bench warrant

JONES, ANTONIO LARON: 39041 Little Creek Drive, Gonzales; 42; failure to appear-bench warrant

GARRISON, AQUINDICE LAMAR: 712 Lessard St, Donaldsonville; 34; probation violation parish, criminal trespass/all other simple assault Nov. 16

COUSIN, BRYCE: 12374 Sugarmill Drive, Geismar; 24; domestic abuse battery

HOWINGTON, ADAM JEFFREY: 42218 Shadow Creek Ave., Gonzales; 38; disturbing the peace/violent and tumultuous manner/disorderly conduct, illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities

CELESTINE, ABRIA: 1913 S. Darla Ave Gonzales; 25; security required, maximum speed limit, operating while intoxicated-first

GOUDEAU, RILEY ANAH: 830 Provision Court, Grammercy; 27; possession of marijuana less than 14 grams, possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (methamphetamine), two counts sale/distribution/ or possession of legend drug without

prescription, distribution/possession with the intent to distribute marijuana or synthetic cannabinoids, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, unlawful production/manufacture/ distribution or possession of hallucinogenic plants

FITZGERALD, JASE DOMONIC: 41499 Oak Harbor Road, Prairieville; 26; proper equipment required on vehicles-display of plate, examination of applicants required-classes of license, security required, careless operation, driving on roadway laned for traffic, operating while intoxicated-third

FAIRBANKS, CHRISTOPHER DEVIN: 48024 Rogers A Road, St. Amant; 37; probation violation parish, three counts failure to appear-bench warrant , domestic abuse battery

FAIRCHILD, RONALD B.: 22406 Teal St., Maurepas; 61; simple criminal damage to property less than $1,000, theft less than $1,000, two counts fugitiveother Louisiana jurisdiction, resisting an officer

PICKRELL, NATHAN REED: 15400 Picou Road; 18; possession of alcoholic beverages in motor vehicles, no seat belt, careless operation, vehicular negligent injuring WEAMS, TREMAINE TERELL: 16131 Tiger Heights Road, Prairieville; 44; simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling

PEREZ, JOSE: 12359 Deck Blvd., Geismar; 25; fugitive-other state jurisdiction, cockfighting (possession), cockfighting (organize)

FREGASO-SOLORZANO, OSCAR ERNESTO: 41438 W. Martha’s Vineyard Road, Gonzales; 33; fugitive-other state jurisdiction, cockfighting (organize)

BANDA-PENA, FILIBERTO: 12015 Drummond Park, Houston, Texas; 39; cockfighting (organize)

SALDANA, BRYAN: 14265 Garcon Road, Gonzales; 28; cockfighting (organize)

ROBERTSON, JAWAUN: 14332 Summerset Drive, Gonzales; 21; fugitiveother Louisiana jurisdiction

LESCANO, JORGE: 1310 Knottoway Drive, St. Gabriel; 62; possession of alcoholic beverages in motor vehicles, vehicles without required equipment or in unsafe condition, driving on roadway laned for traffic, operating while intoxicated-first

Nov. 17

PINHEIRO-CAMPBELL, ANA PAULA: 38100 Springwood Ave., Prairieville; 33; failure to appear-bench warrant GAUDET, KADON J.: 43264 Moody Dixon Road No. 13, Prairieville; 22; two counts failure to appear-bench warrant, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, domestic abuse batterychild endangerment, domestic abuse battery-strangulation, false imprisonment COWART, JESSE JAMES: 318 Stephens Road, Vidalia; 33; two counts

Greenwell Springs; Connor Herrington, of Madisonville; Kayla Manning, of New Orleans; Rosemary Matthews, of Covington; Maison Moore and Caleb Robbins, of Prairieville; Chloe Schellinger, of Covington; Cameron Tompson, of Gretna; and Camille Ybarzabal, of Mandeville.

The on-campus gallery, in East Strawberry Stadium, 411 Ned McGehee Drive, is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8 a.m. to noon Friday

Community news report

Louisiana High School Bass Fishing held the North Pass, Manchac, East Division Tournament on Nov 1. The Halloween weekend event included candy and costumes, including fish from Dr Seuss and some Ninja Turtles.

The turnout included 150 high school teams, families and volunteers.

founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann, who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines, a news release said.

simple battery, second degree battery, two counts simple criminal damage to property less than $1,000, simple criminal damage to property $1,000 to $50,000, domestic abuse battery, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, battery of a dating partner-serious injury

TAYLOR IV, KEVIN VINCENT: 229 N. Airline Ave., Gramercy; 25; parole violation, illegal possession of stolen things over $25,000 WILKINSON, JONTAVAIUS: 784 Huey Andrew Ave., Gonzales; 23; domestic abuse battery-strangulation

LONDON, NATASHA SHANICE: 784 Huey Andrew Ave., Gonzales; 35; domestic abuse battery

ANSARDI, ASHLY ELIZABETH: 40454 Crossgate Place, Gonzales; 35; three counts failure to appear-bench warrant, breach of bail condition, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, RODRIGUE, DAVID: 1213 St. Vincent St., Donaldsonville; 19; failure to appear-bench warrant Nov. 18

CHATMAN, KIREN JANTE: 210 Pine St., Donaldsonville; 32; hold for other agency, disturbing the peace / violent and tumultuous manner/ disorderly conduct

KROLL, MATTHEW M.: 44047 W E Bill Stevens Road, St. Amant; 33; probation violation parish, telephone communications/improper language/harassment, violations of protective orders

GARRETT, BRANT: address unknown; 27; two counts fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction

WILLIAMS, RASHAD LEON: 120 Dville Village Circle, Donaldsonville; 19; aggravated assault

BARRICK, AUSTIN MCNEIL: 12315 Cleo Road, Gonzales; 27; domestic abuse battery-serious bodily injury

STAPLES, SOPHIA: 3939 Fulton Drive NW, Canton, Ohio; 56; fugitive-other state jurisdiction

DORSETTE, VERNELL: 115 Sarah Drive, Plattenville; 23; obstruction to driver’s view or driving mechanism, careless operation, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior

GREEN, JASON: 18136 Beechwood Subdivision Road, Prairieville; 52; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction

BREAUX, COLBY CHARLES: 266 Rue Tete Rouge, Bourg; 19; illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities, second degree murder, aggravated second degree battery RAMOS, CARLOS: 44006 Austen St., Penitas, Texas; 26; driver must be licensed, operating while intoxicated-first HOWARD, GREGORY: 110 W 26th St., Cut Off; 38; domestic abuse batterychild endangerment CONSTANT JR., GREGORY:, 1112 S Shirley Ave., Gonzales; 42; cruelty to juveniles

Logan Samaha and Callian Watkins, of Denham Springs High, finished first with 11.94 pounds. St. Amant High School received the High School Team Award. Other local top finishers include: n Jackson Gomez and Jake Folse, of St. Amant High School, second place, 10.99 pounds n Brae Babin and Mack Delaune, of St. Amant High School, fourth place, 9.26 pounds n Reese Forbes and Mason Grantham, of Livingston Parish Bassmasters, fifth place, 9.02 pounds

The Louisiana Youth Bass Nation Junior included 31 teams at the same place and time. Thomas Savoia and Cruz Couch, of Ascension Catholic Junior, finished second with 5.19 pounds

HUDSON, TREVOR: 18194 Pinehurst Drive, Prairieville; 28; domestic abuse battery-child endangerment Nov. 19

CONTRERAS, CHRISTOPHER ISRRAEL: 719 Sedona Pines Drive, Baton Rouge; 18; disturbing the peace/language/ disorderly conduct MOSBY, DARIUS DA’MONTE: 39163 W Worthey Road, Gonzales; 24; failure to appear-bench warrant, resisting an officer by violence, resistance, or opposition, illegal possession of stolen firearms, second degree murder NICHOLS, ALIZABETH BREEANNA: 6821 Perimeter Drive, Baton Rouge; 32; armed robbery JACKSON, SABRINA ERIN: 31660 Crain Road, Albany; 47; criminal trespass/ trespassing of real property, theft $5,000 but less than $25,000 SINGLETON, PRESHUS LATONYA: 155 Elmer Ave., Baton Rouge; 32; theft $1,000 but less than $5,000 HUGHES, KATELYN SUZANNE: 13480 Liberty Lane, St. Amant; 27; failure to appear-bench warrant SIMON, TYRELL DMARCUS: 3023 Mount Olive Church Road, Donaldsonville; 21; second degree murder, illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities/weapons law violation, aggravated criminal damage to property HAMILTON, JASHA MCCOURTNEY: 14496 Airline Highway No. 1325, Gonzales; 33; three counts failure to appear-bench warrant , expired motor vehicle inspection, expired driver’s license, vehicle license required WILLIAMS, RONNIE: 8370 S. St. Landry Ave. No. 10, Gonzales; 68; reckless operation, operating while intoxicated-first HENRY, LESTREONIA RENEE: 12328 Cleo Rad, Gonzales; 30; simple battery, violations of protective orders CORNISH, CABRYN RONALD: 1616 W. Tabbie Ave., Gonzales; 21; simple criminal damage to property less than $1,000, domestic abuse battery

BORDELON, AMBER RENEE: 13162 La. 73, Geismar; 43; domestic abuse battery

Nov. 20

FOSTER, CALEB ALEXANDER: 12391 Dutchtown Lane, Geismar; 23; contraband defined-certain activities regarding contraband in penal institutions prohibited, failure to appear-bench warrant BLAIR, CHLOE JADE: 39460 La. 74, Gonzales; 19; failure to appearbench warrant STEVENS III, ODEN WILTON: 43309 Lineage Road, Gonzales; 40; prohibited acts-drug paraphernalia, possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (ketamine), possession of a Schedule IV controlled dangerous substance (alprazolam), reckless operation, operating while intoxicated-first