The St. Francisville Democrat 05-06-2026

Ligon Playground open for activity

BY MELINDA RAWLS HOWELL

Contributing writer

The Clinton branch of the Audubon Regional Library has a new playground. On April 21, officials from across East Feliciana Parish, past and present library board members, library patrons and others from the surrounding community joined together with library staff to cut the ribbon on the Ligon Playground. They celebrated the new play area dedicated in honor of the Ligon family of Clinton.

The special event opened with a welcome by Clinton Branch Manager Aubrey LeGette and was followed with a prayer by the Rev Buck King.

SLU

Community news report

Southeastern Louisiana University alumna and astronaut Hayley Arceneaux will address graduating students at two commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 16.

Southeastern will confer approximately 1,200 degrees between the two ceremonies at 10 a.m. — College of Business; College of Nursing and Health Sciences and 3 p.m. — Colleges of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; Education; and Science and Technology.

“We strive to expose our new graduates to exemplary role models through our commencement speakers,” said Southeastern President William S. Wainwright. “Hayley’s inspirational words of wisdom will be invaluable to the Class of 2026.”

A pediatric cancer diagnosis at

Special announcement

Just before the ribbon-cutting, Marsha Kemp, founding board member of the Clinton Is Home Foundation, talked about two donated benches situated at the northeast corner of the playground. She said the benches were placed there by Clinton Is Home in memory of Lamenia Veal, former Clinton Branch manager The memorial reflects the special connection with children the young manager was known to have during the library programs she presented, Kemp said Ligon family praised Current member of the Audubon Regional Library Board of

Commissioners Martin Mcdiarmid said that if it were not for the ongoing efforts of the Ligon family over the years that the library might not exist.

Mcdiarmid said the library system is “one of the best…in a rural community” and that “we should be proud.” He continued that by adding the playground to the spacious grounds at the library’s new location offers a great thing for the community for they offer something for both the “mind and body” for families and their children.

Carolyn Ligon, accepting the honor for herself and her late husband Leslie Ligon and the Ligon family, invited some of the children in the audience to join in with her family as they

age 10 did not put dreams on hold for Arceneaux. Her experience not only cured her but also reshaped her career aspirations. Now a physician assistant at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, she is giving back to the place that saved her life as a child.

In a journey that has come full circle, she served as an ambassador for the hospital on Inspiration4, the first all-civilian mission to orbit Earth. In addition to serving as the medical officer on Inspiration4, Arceneaux made history in other ways, such as becoming the first person with a prosthesis, the first pediatric cancer survivor, and the youngest American orbital astronaut.

Arceneaux was 10 years old and preparing to earn her black belt in taekwondo when one of her knees began to ache. A lump above her knee was diagnosed as osteosar-

cut the ribbon officially opening the Ligon Playground. LeGette thanked all attending and reminded them of the informational flyers on hand about the upcoming tax renewal to support the library system. Message to the community

In an interview the day before the ceremony, Ligon acknowledged that over the years the Ligon family had been “patrons, neighbors, volunteers and landlords” at the library She added that there were many other people, several organizations and the parish police jurors, who were instrumental over the years in

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Benches installed near Clinton Library in memory of Leamenia Veal, former branch manager

BY MELINDA RAWLS HOWELL Contributing writer

Two benches along the northeast side of the Clinton branch of the Audubon Regional Library’s new Ligon Family Playground offer more than a comfortable place to rest — they stand as a lasting tribute to the life and legacy of Leamenia Veal.

coma, a form of bone cancer

Her curative treatment included a year of chemotherapy and limbsparing surgery, which saved her leg. Arceneaux now works at St. Jude caring for pediatric leukemia and lymphoma patients, fulfilling her long-held dream of returning to the hospital as a health care provider When approached about the opportunity to go to space, Arceneaux reacted first with disbelief, then with enthusiasm. Family members, including a brother and sister-in-law who are both aerospace engineers, strongly supported her decision.

Training for space consisted of six months of intensive preparation, including academic coursework, long hours in the spacecraft simulator centrifuge training,

The East Feliciana Parish Extension Office in Clinton will hold a Master Gardener

Leamenia Veal

The benches in honor of the late branch manager in Clinton were donated by the Clinton Is Home Foundation, a local cultural, civic and historical organization, to recognize Veal’s impact on her workplace and the co mm un ity she served. The daughter of Gwendolyn and Jones Veal Jr., Leamenia Veal was a 2015 graduate of Northeast High School and earned her general studies degree from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2020. Her mother recalled that Veal “loved her job at the library and enjoyed being a part of it.”

Gwendolyn Veal said children were drawn to her daughter, as were older patrons — a reflection of her genuine love for people and her warm, welcoming spirit.

Described by her mother as tough and “full of joy,” Leamenia Veal fought courageously against cancer, which claimed her life at the age of 27. Despite her illness, she continued her education by completing coursework online, demonstrating remarkable determination and resilience. Library spokesperson Peggy Stafford also spoke of the Veal family’s strong faith and resilience. Stafford said that during a recent conversation, Gwendolyn Veal expressed

ä See BENCHES, page 2G

LUNCH:

LUNCH: 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday, May 13

BINGO: 10:30 a.m.

LUNCH: 11:30 a.m.

Transportation n Transportation is provided to East Feliciana Parish residents of any age for appointments in East Feliciana, West Feliciana and East Baton Rouge parishes Monday through Friday. Call (225) 683-9862 to schedule a transportation appointment.

AROUND

hosting summer basketball camps for ages 5-12. Registration deadline is May 31. Cost in $75. Preseason practice runs June 8-26, and games are June 29-July 31. West Feliciana Summer Camps start the week on May 26–July 24 for ages 6-11. Cost is $175 a week. Camps include games, art and crafts, and field trips.

The camps are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday at the Old Bains Elementary Gym. Register online at www wfprec.com. For any questions, call 225-784-8447 or emailmpatten@wfparish.org.

West Feliciana summer food boxes planned

PLAYGROUND

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supporting and making possible the existence and continued growth of the library system. She said it was an honor to have the playground at the Clinton branch dedicated as the Ligon Playground. She added it’s a good thing to associate the library and a playground” and it’s “never a mistake to invest in children.” Ligon later continued that “the playground next to the library adds a new dimension to the library, a very updated one for the new generation. My hopes are that people will discover all of the possibilities that the library has to offer.”

Sources present history

According to more than one source, the origins of the Clinton Community Library began in 19161917. Ligon shared some of the system’s history from a booklet she provided. Another resource was from the library’s Audubon Regional Library History with the original in the Sesquintenial Vault. At least two resources stated that the original library began at a ladies’ tea where guests donated books or money and ladies of the town volunteered their time several afternoons a week to circulate books.

BENCHES

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how thankful she is that people continue to remember her daughter and honor her life. Positioned beside a place of learning, play and community gathering, the benches serve as a reminder to visitors of Leamenia Veal’s kindness, strength and the meaningful connections she built through her work at the library

Gilmore at (225) 635-0322. Library tax renewal coming Early voting for the renewal of the existing 2.5 mill tax for Audubon Regional Library is May 2-9. The regular election day is May 16. An information flyer is available at the library branches and on its website at www.audubonregional.

The West Feliciana Parish school system will provide healthy, nutritious meals for all children 18 and under every Monday during the month of June. Pickup is 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at West Feliciana Middle School. Signup deadline is May 28 at www.wfpsb.org. For information, contact Pat

DEMOCRAT

Ligon’s shared booklet highlights much of the history of the library and breaks down the years by decades giving details. It was produced in 2008 by the history committee of the Friends of the Library, which credits its writing to Anne O’Brien, editing to Evelyn Wilson and contributions by others including Mary Lindsey and Frances Phares.

From the section “Library History at a Glance,” it is noted that the Clinton Community Library Association was established in May 1919. In November of the same year the name was changed to the East Feliciana Memorial Library Association as a memorial to honor “the men from East Feliciana parish who lost their lives during World War I.”

Jumping forward, information continued that in September 1960 a Demonstration Audubon Regional Library, a three-parish system was run by the state for East Feliciana, West Feliciana and St Helena parishes. It then became the independent Audubon Regional Library System in January 1963. This regional system was the only one of its kind in the state.

Other glimpses of history reported financial hard times, occasional generous donations made to the system, the 1964-66 civil rights activities and subsequent positive changes in the library’s formation and growth. By 1974 there were four branches

and two bookmobiles serving the three parishes The branches were in Clinton, Jackson, St. Francisville and Greensburg.

More information detailed that in “Fall 2002 A ‘friendly’ lawsuit was brought by West Feliciana to withdraw from the system, leaving Audubon Regional Library the only two-parish system in the state.” Explained in another reference, “A civil suit in 2002 released West Feliciana from the Audubon Regional System and fairly divided…the assets.”

Current conditions in Clinton

Recent stories detailed some of the newer locations of branches, changes and construction including the 2024 relocation to the present Clinton branch in the former Clinton Presbyterian Church building.

The Clinton branch location remained for more than 100 years, situated on the historic Lawyer’s Row It was the same site that was purchased by the East Feliciana Memorial Library Association in 1919, making the library the longest in continuous use in the state.

At the new Clinton site with its new Ligon Playground, the Audubon Regional Library System continues to strive to provide “a welcoming space with free access to information, technology, literacy and now a safe, happy outdoor space,” a library spokesperson said.

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NoticedisherebygivenpursuanttoArticle7,Section23(C)oftheLouisianaConstitutionandR.S.47:1705(B)thatapublic hearingoftheAssessmentDistrictofEast FelicianaParishwillbeheldatits regularmeeting placeatthe Town Hall located at 3337ChurchStreet, Slaughter, LA on July 21,2026at6:30p.m.toconsider levyingadditionalorincreased millage rateswithout furthervoter approval or adopting theadjustedmillage ratesafter reassessmentandrollingforwardtorates nottoexceedthe prioryear’smaximum. Theestimated amount of taxrevenues to be collected in thenextyearfromthe increasedmillage is $54,630.65,and the amount of increase in taxesattributable tothemillageincreaseis$216.89

Man who died during arrest was wanted in shooting case, officials say

BY ELLYN COUVLLION Staff writer

The man who died by suicide the morning of May 4 as officers tried to arrest him in East Feliciana Parish was wanted in connection with a shooting in Jackson last month, officials said.

Nicholas Cunningham was one of two men wanted in an April 2 shooting in the Charles Drive area of Jackson. The shooting sent the victim to the hospital after life-saving aid was given at the scene, according to an online notice last month by the Jackson Marshals Office.

Another suspect in the shooting, Corente Anderson, turned himself in and was booked into the East Feliciana Parish Prison on a count of principal to attempted second-degree murder Cunningham had remained at large until Monday morning, when officers with the U.S. Marshals Service tried to arrest him.

As task force officers were working to to take Cunningham into custody, he died by suicide, the East Feliciana Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

“No shots were fired by the task force nor was there any other use of force by task force personnel,” the Sheriff’s Office said. No East Feliciana sheriff’s personnel were present or involved in the apprehension efforts.

The Sheriff’s Office is documenting the incident.

Advocate writer James Minton contributed to this story

ASTRONAUT

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Feliciana students get taste of Revolutionary War life

Community news report

On April 24, members of the General Philemon Thomas Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution hosted a living history experience for dozens of elementary school students during a special school-day program at the Audubon State Historic Site.

As part of the Battle of Baton Rouge commemorative weekend, the chapter focused its efforts on hands-on education, giving students an opportunity to explore life during the American Revolution.

A central feature of the day was the chapter’s Patriot Chest, an interactive display filled with reproduction artifacts, uniforms and equipment used by soldiers of the era.

Students rotated through demonstrations where SAR members, dressed in period attire, explained the daily life of Revolutionary War soldiers, showcased historical weapons and gear, and answered questions. The immersive experience allowed students to see, touch and better understand the challenges faced by those who fought for American independence.

“I think that seeing what people wore and the weapons of the time makes you further appreciate how difficult it was,” said SAR member Derrick Spell. “It was more direct person-on-person fighting, and the uniforms and equipment really capture the students’ attention.”

General Philemon Thomas Chapter Past President Mitch Pratt emphasized the importance of these experiences. “Programs like this bring history to life in a way textbooks simply can’t,” Pratt said

On April 24, members of the General Philemon Thomas Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution use the chapter’s Patriot Chest, an interactive display filled with reproduction artifacts, uniforms and equipment used by soldiers of the era. This was part of a living history experience for dozens of elementary school students during a special school-day program at the Audubon State Historic Site.

hypoxia exposure, zerogravity flights, and water survival training. The crew also climbed Mount Rainier together On Sept 15, 2021, Arceneaux and her fellow Inspiration4 crew members launched aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft. They orbited Earth for three days before safely returning, splashing down in the Atlantic Ocean. While in orbit, the crew participated in multiple biomedical research studies. One of the highlights of Arceneaux’s time in space was a video call with former and current patients at St Jude.

“I made sure this call would happen so I could show patients what their future could look like — whether they want to be astronauts or pursue whatever big dream they imagine,” she said.

The mission raised more

than $250 million for St. Jude. Inspiration4 continues to make an impact for the hospital and beyond, and the crew’s journey is featured in the Netflix docuseries Countdown: Inspiration4 Mission to Space. Post-space, Arceneaux continues her work as a physician assistant and embraces the new perspective that spaceflight has given her She has a passion for exploring Earth and has visited all seven continents. Inspired to share her journey, she published her memoir “Wild Ride: A Memoir of IV Drips and Rocket Ships,” as well as the young readers edition, “Wild Ride: My Journey from Cancer Kid to Astronaut.”

Most recently, she published the children’s picture book “Astronaut Hayley’s Brave Adventure.” One of her greatest joys is sharing her story of hope and resilience through speaking. For more information on Southeastern’s Commencement ceremonies, visit southeastern.edu/commencement.

Application period opening for preservation grants

Community news report

Lt. Gov Billy Nungesser and the Louisiana State Historic Preservation Office announced the opening of the application period for the 2026-2027 Historic Preservation Fund Grant.

“Historic preservation is about more than protecting our past — it’s about strengthening our future and driving tourism and economic growth. These grants provide communities with the resources they need to preserve their unique history and tell their stories,” Nungesser said Funds are awarded to the state by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, to support surveys of historic re-

sources, preservation training and education, nominations to the National Register of Historic Places, and grants to certified local governments for their preservation priorities.

The new Louisiana Statewide Plan 20262030 Together for Louisiana includes elements and goals to promote historic preservation and archaeology to the public and private sectors. All proposals relating to ongoing state and federally mandated programs and initiatives outlined in the comprehensive plan will be considered; however, the current priority will focus on projects that expand public access to digital preservation information. Examples of related projects include:

n Digitization of records, documents and photographs related to physical resources

n Development of website content, story maps or online tours that highlight historic resources

n Development of historic district guidelines and updates in digital format for easy access Grant awards usually range from $3,000 to $80,000. The grant period of performance is from Oct. 1 to Sept. 15.

Historic Preservation Fund grants require matching funds on a 60% grant to 40% match basis. Awarded funds are paid as reimbursements after being expended and upon presentation of required documentation by grantees.

Applications will be available through the Division of Historic Preservation website beginning at 10 a.m., May 1, through 10 p.m., May 31. For application information, visit https:// www.crt.state.la.us/cultural-development/ historic-preservation/grants/national-parkservice-historic-preservation-fund-grants/ index. Grant applications will be reviewed during June with grant recipients notified of awards during late August 2026. Funding is contingent upon the LA SHPO annual appropriation from the National Park Service Historic Preservation Fund and State General Fund appropriations.

Story of orphan trains shared at West Fel library program

BY MELINDA RAWLS HOWELL Contributing writer

Speakers shared true stories, mostly good, and included memories of their own personal family connections at the West Feliciana Parish Library recently, giving insight about some of the many children who rode the historic orphan trains that came to Louisiana, specifically Opelousas, beginning in 1907.

The two main speakers, who were from the Louisiana Orphan Train Museum, presented slides, photos and a brief documentary detailing the orphan train movement, the New York Foundling Hospital and the Sisters of Charity’s efforts. The role of the Catholic Church in Louisiana, the key nuns and priests that were instrumental in helping to place children with Catholic families they had asked to open their hearts and homes was explained. From the dire circumstances in New York City (1854-1929), the young children went to homes here approved by the church. Orphans had German, Polish, Irish Italian and Jewish backgrounds and often had to learn a new language.

information for the

One of the speakers, Martha Aubert, is the granddaughter of Louisiana orphan train rider Emily Kingsley Bergeron Von Bodungen. Aubert is president of the Louisiana Orphan Train Society Inc., which was chartered in 2003 and is one of only two such groups in the U.S

Aubert said people sometimes ask why a mother would give up a child, but in her research, she was moved by the love that motivated her greatgrandmother to try to find a better life for her baby, Aubert’s grandmother

James Douget, a board member of the Louisiana Orphan Train Society Inc. and a former history teacher, is the nephew of Christina Geitz Douget West and Dominic Yenley Douget, both orphan train riders who were accepted into what would grow to be a large family but were not blood relations.

James Douget said he knew his aunt and she was just as much a part of the family as any others.

The majority of the orphan train children, especially older ones, were indentured, the speakers said, but some were adopted. Upon arrival, they were baptized and subsequently reared in the Catholic faith Sometimes people, especially the younger generations Douget said express concerns that the children were used as free labor

Douget also told the audience that many orphans had to learn/accept that someone who is placed into a farming family in 1900 works along with everyone else Nuns and/or agents made annual visits to check on the orphans, who could be removed from a family

The Louisiana Orphan Train Museum is run by volunteers, who Douget said are so passionate about the history because the stories are about family

For tours or information about the museum, call (337) 948-9922; visit laorphantrainmuseum com, Facebook or Youtube; or email laorphantrain2009@ gmail.com.

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