central city news

Partner ReportsRep. White PaidNothing for 1/3rdInterest in Land

RETURN TO GLORY — Duke Landry of Don’s Seafood — the three-time Nation-al Oyster-Shucking Champion — is ready to reclaim his title and head to Ireland.

Phot

o by

Jolic

e Pr

ovos

t

‘Spirit of City of Central’ Returns for Dedication

Join Central City News on

Get Latest News Updates

Pick 12 ContestWin 55” Color HDTV

at Oak Point • See 6

Thursday, September 29, 2011 • Vol. 14, No. 22 • 16 PagesCirculation 11,000 • centralcitynews.us • Published Thursdays

& The Leader

General ExcellenceLouisiana Press AssociationNational Newspaper Assn.

®


NEWSNEWSCENTRAL CITYCENTRAL CITY

CENTRAL — Rep. Bodi White paid nothing for a 1/3rd interest in a 52-acre tract of land front-ing on Hooper and Lovett roads that is now being developed as a Sports Park for BREC, according to E. Gordon Rogillio, Jr., one of White’s partners in the deal. The BREC land deal became an issue when Senate candidate Mike Mannino charged White has used his legislative position to enrich his business partners. White and Mannino are running for the new Senate District 6 seat in the Oct. 22 primary. Both are Republicans. Parcel 52, LLC, was formed in January 2007. Three days later, the firm acquired the 52-acre tract for $300,000, but White made no

Council OkaysPlan to ElectSeven-MemberCity Council

BREC Land DealStirs ControversyIn Senate Election

BATON ROUGE — In 1989, Duke Landry of Don’s Seafood shucked two dozen oysters in 2 minutes, 20 seconds — an all-time national re-cord that still stands — on his way to winning one of four U.S. titles

at the National Oyster-Shucking Championships in Lexington Park, Maryland. Now Landry, a familiar face to Don’s customers, is coming out of “oyster-shucking retirement” and heading back to Maryland Oct. 15-16 to try to reclaim his title.

See PARTNER on Page 3

ST. BERNARD PARISH RESIDENTS brought the Spirit of the City of Central — a bus donated to St. Bernard schools — to Monday’s dedication

Phot

o by

Woo

dy Je

nkin

s

Phot

o by

Woo

dy Je

nkin

s

Woody Jenkins Editor, Central City News

Former Oyster ChampWants to Reclaim Title

CENTRAL — Members of Cookin’ in Central dedicated the new lo-cation of the annual event Mon-day evening at 10305 Blackwater Road. The site will be the home of the annual fundraising event, which in past years has assisted St. Bernard Parish schools, St. Helena schools, Central school libraries, and Central schools’ technology needs. On hand for the event was the Spirit of the City of Central, a bus donated to St. Bernard after Hurricane Katrina.


See DUKE on Page 4

CENTRAL — After six pub-lic hearings over the past three months and a four-hour Council meeting Tuesday night, the Cen-tral City Council voted to adopt a new reapportionment plan us-ing population numbers from the 2010 census. Under the plan proposed by the Mayor’s study committee and offered by the committee chairman, Councilman Wayne Messina, the current five-mem-ber City Council would increase in size to seven members — the same number as the Central School Board. Five of the mem-

See COUNCIL on Page 10

Cookin’ DedicatesBlackwater SiteFor Annual Event

Compromise Combines5 Single-Member SeatsWith 2 At-Large Posts

2 CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, September 29, 2011

13567HooperRoad PostOfficeBox1 Central, LA 70818 Greenwell Springs, LA 70739

Phone(225)261-5055•FAX261-5022Email stories and photos to [email protected] 2nd and 4th Thursdays, January through July

Weekly from 2nd Thursday of August through 4th Thursday of December.The Leader was founded April 30, 1998, and the Central CityNews was founded April 21, 2005. They merged May 4, 2006.

The Central City News also publishes the Central Community Directory & Yellow Pages and numerous special editions throughout the year.

Editor & Publisher Woody Jenkins Business Manager Candi Lee Graphic Artist Terrie Palmer Business Specialists Shara Pollard, Jolice Provost

Member, Louisiana Press Association, and National Newspaper AssociationDeadline for news and advertising: 5 p.m. Mondays

$40ayearbysubscriptioninadvance•$50ayearoutsideEastBatonRouge

CENTRAL CITY NEWS®and The Leader • Vol. 14, No. 22 No. 297

Country Living in the City

DEDICATION OF AMAZING PLACE — A host of local elected officials were on hand Monday afternoon for the formal dedication of Amazing Place at 10305 Blackwa-ter Road. The site will be the location of future Cookin’ in Central events, according to founder Louis DeJohn. Shown are (left to right) Sheriff Sid Gautreaux, Mayor Pro-Tem Mike Walker, and Metro Councilman Scott Wilson.

Kevin A. Rogers, O.D.Baron J. Williamson, M.D.

18522 Magnolia Bridge Road • Suite 101

Laser Vision Correction Eye Diseases & InfectionsDiabetic Eye Exams Cataracts & GlaucomaEye Injuries Contact Lenses & SunglassesChildren’s Eye Exams www.rogersregionaleyecenter.com

[Editor’s Note: On Sept. 22, 2011, the Central City News published an article entitled, “BREC Park: A Closer Look at Land Deal at Lovett and Hoop-er Roads,” in which we chronicled the acquisition, sale, and development of the proposed BREC Sports Park in Central. Rep. Bodi White, E. Gordon Rogil-lio, and Brandon Rogillio formed a business called Parcel 52, LLC, in Jan-uary 2007. Three days later, it acquired 52 acres of land — Parcel 52 — near the intersection of Hooper and Lovett roads for $300,000. In the spring of 2008, Rep. White introduced a bill to pull Central out of BREC and create a separate Central Recreation District. Then on May 14, 2008, White announced that a “com-promise” had been reached. He agreed to pull down his bill and BREC pledged to spend $6.25 million on new parks in Central. Over the next few months, BREC

proceeded to purchase 50.8 acres of land from Parcel 52, LLC for $709,000. Parcel 52, LLC, was able to pay off its original $300,000 investment and make a handsome profit. Parcel 52, LLC, was also able to keep a commer-cial tract of about 8 acres fronting on Hooper Road. In addition, BREC paid Parcel 52, LLC, $130,000 to build a road with curbs and sidewalks through that commercial development. On Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2011, one of the three partners, Mr. Gordon Rogillio, wrote to the Central City News with his perspective on what happened.]Sept. 27, 2011Dear Editor, While I choose not to engage in the sensationalism that was the Central City News, September 22, 2011 edition, I am compelled to provide you with the rest of the story. Enumerated below are some facts which will be important to any

Gordon Rogillio Offers His Time Line on BREC Dealreader interested in the whole truth. 1. November 2006 — Brandon Rogillio enters an agreement to pur-chase a 52 acre tract with a 60 day due diligence period and authorizes the design of an industrial park 2. January 2007 — Parcel 52, LLC purchases 52.104 acres at the fair market value of $300,000 3. April 24, 2007 — Parcel 52, LLC purchases an adjoining 7.128 acre tract for $95,744 and Rogillio Real Estate begins marketing the 59 acre site as potential location for in-dustrial warehousing 4. July 2007 — BREC does park-land acquisition study of the tract, as Rogillio Real Estate continues to market it as a potential warehousing site 5. October 2007 — Parcel 52, LLC invests in the improvement of the property, including large scale drainage improvements

6. May 6, 2008, Mack “Bodi” White publically discloses his inter-est in the parcel after BREC puts it on their short list of potential sites 7. August 7, 2008 — BREC presents their review appraisal to Brandon Rogillio, demonstrating a strong interest in the land 8. September 24, 2008 — Bodi White dissolves his interest in the potential warehouse project in favor of a BREC sports park. He received no money from the transaction 9. June 19, 2009 — BREC pur-chases 50.62 of the 59.23 acres owned by Parcel 52, LLC 10. As a condition of the sale, Parcel 52, LLC becomes responsi-ble for improvements to the BREC property, including the construction of a multi-acre retention pond 11. As a condition of the sale, BREC becomes responsible for

See CO-OWNER on Page 10

Community Newspaper’s Role When News Is Bad

Woody Jenkins


CENTRAL — What is the role of a community newspaper when bad things happen? What are we supposed to do when tragic accidents occur and people die? What should we do when disaster hits and there is devastation? What should we do when serious crimes occur? What should we do when public officials are caught in unethical or even criminal activity? Is the editor of your community newspaper supposed to lean back in his rocking chair, smile, whistle a happy tune, and say, “Oh no, we don’t cover any of that. We’re just a happy-news paper! We just cov-er the ‘good news’!” Are you kidding me? If you

don’t cover the news, you’re not a newspaper. The fact that we pub-lish this newspa-per once a week in a smaller com-munity doesn’t change any of the fundamentals. As journalists, we have all of the same responsibili-ties and duties to our readers that they do in the big cities — maybe more so, because people in commu-nities like Central expect a higher standard. Do you think that a physician who practices in Central should have a lower standard of profes-sionalism and competency than if he practiced in a big city? Should an attorney who practices here

have a lower standard of profes-sionalism and competency than if he practiced in a big city? Of course not, and neither does a journalist. As journalists, our primary re-sponsibility is to provide you with the information you need to have as a citizen to make decisions in your role as a citizen. To make decisions, you need the truth — not some cockamam-my caricuture of the truth but the real truth. That won’t always be “good news.” Sometimes it won’t be “happy news.” But it should always be things that enable you to deal with the real world and the real issues that you and our com-munity have to confront. A ‘newspaper’ is not just a ran-dom collection of news releases and pass outs from schools, churches,

and businesses. A real newspaper analyzes what is going on in the community, writes original news and editorials about those events, and reports them to you. You know, my mom is 89 and in poor health. But we visit every day, and I learn a lot from her. Yes-terday, she was reading last week’s paper, and she said, “Son, a lot of the politicians in Central and their friends don’t like your paper, do they?” I said, “No, they don’t, mama.” She said, “You know, they should.” I said, “Why, mama?” She said, “Because it’s keeping some of them out of jail. If your paper wasn’t looking over their shoulder, some of them would get so far out of line they’d end up in jail. Keep it up, son!” I said, “Thanks, mama, I needed that!”

CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, September 29, 2011 3

Partner Says Bodi White Didn’t LoseMoney on Land Deal Involving BREC

Contradicts Statements Before GOP Women

CENTRAL — One of Rep. Bodi White’s partners in Parcel 52, LLC, answered questions Tuesday about White’s investment in the firm and the issue of whether he lost $100,000 on a 50.8-acre tract that was ultimately sold to BREC after a “compromise” White brokered, that committed BREC to building a new Sports Park in Central. Q. Central City News: What did Bodi White invest or pay for his 1/3rd interest in Parcel 52, LLC, in 2007 and what did he get back in Sept. 2008? A. Gordon Rogillio: Bodi did not pay anything in 2007 and did not receive anything in 2008. Q. Central City News: At the Central Republican Women’s Fo-rum last week, Rep. Bodi White said he and his wife lost $100,000 on the deal. How is that possible? Surely, the remaining partners bought out his interest and kept him whole in view of the profit they were going to make. A. Gordon Rogillio: No, we didn’t buy him out. He had made no investment so there was nothing for us to buy. I don’t speak for Bodi, but I viewed the $100,000 to be an arbitrary figure. His exact earning potential would have depended on

the success of a project that never happened. Q. Central City News: Did he retain any interest in Parcel 52, LLC, or any of the tracts involved after Sept. 2008? A. Gordon Rogillio: No and No Q. Central City News: Did he receive any compensation in any form or any promises for the future for bowing out of the deal? A. Gordon Rogillio: No Q. Central City News: Where is the 7.1 acre tract located and how did it fit into the ultimate sale to BREC? A. Gordon Rogillio: The tract lies on the west side of the original 52 acres. It provides a second ac-cess point from Lovett Road. Q. Central City News: How did the parkland study by BREC in July 2007 come about? A. Gordon Rogillio: Honestly, I’m not sure what prompts them do these studies, but out of all the tracts Brandon has shown them since 2005 they have done parkland acquisition studies on three. Q. Central City News: In what manner did Bodi publicly declare his interest in the parcel on May 6, 2008? A. Gordon Rogillio: At a BREC meeting.

Partner Answers QuestionsOn BREC Site, Bodi White

My wife and I lost $100,000 on that so “the people of Central could have a park.” — Rep. Bodi White in speech before Republican Women of Central last week

contribution to the deal, Rogillio said in answer to written questions from the Central City News. The state has strict prohibitions on legislators receiving even small items such as meals and gifts with-out reporting them. In addition, campaign contributions above a few thousand dollars are prohibited. In this case, the value of a 1/3rd interest in the land would have been worth at least $100,000. However, a few months later, it was sold to BREC for $709,000. Parcel 52, LLC, was founded by Bodi White, Brandon Rogillio, and Gordon Rogillio. Each had a 1/3rd interest in the property. Gordon Rogillio said in his statement that White paid nothing for his interest and received noth-ing when he gave up his interest in September 2008. Last Monday night, Rep. White told an audience of more than 150 attendees at the Republican Wom-en of Central Candidates Forum that “My wife and I lost more than $100,000 on that deal, so the people of Central could have a park.” However, Rogillio said, “I don’t speak for Bodi, but I viewed the $100,000 to be an arbitrary figure. His exact earning potential would have depended on the success of a project that never happened.” Rogillio said that BREC had iden-tified the 52-acre site in July 2007 as a potential park site and began to evaluate it. In the spring of 2008, White in-troduced a bill to create the Central Recreation and Park District and take Central out of BREC. Rogillio said that White revealed his ownership interest to BREC on May 6, 2008. Then on May 14, 2008, White and BREC director Bill Palmer an-

Continued from Page 1 nounced a “compromise” under which White would withdraw this legislation to take Central out of BREC and BREC would in turn spend $6.25 million for parks in Central, including $2.92 million for the Sports Park. At the time Rep. White announced the “compromise,” he would have known that the new Central recre-ation district would not be purchas-ing park land for some time but that BREC was actively considering pur-chasing the land he owned 1/3rd of. The land deal has proven to be lu-crative for White’s partners, whom he works with at 444 Wooddale Blvd. Parcel 52, LLC, purchased the 52-acre tract for $300,000 in Janu-ary 2007, added another 6-acre tract for $95,000 shortly thereafter, and then sold 50 acres to BREC for $709,000. This would have paid off the initial $300,000 and $95,000 and made a $300,000 profit. However, Parcel 52, LLC, also retained ownership of about 8 acres of prime commercial property on Hooper and the mineral rights to the entire property. In addition, BREC agreed to pay Parcel 52, LLC, $130,000 to help build a 750-foot-long road with curbs and sidewalks from Hooper to the BREC site. The road goes through the center of the 8-acre commercial property owned by Parcel 52, LLC, and adds significant value to the commercial property, which could be developed for 10-20 commercial sites or offices. Rogillio said that Rep. Bodi White did not end up profiting from the deal and received no compensa-tion or promises for the future for bowing out of the deal. White is an agent for a real estate firm owned by Brandon Rogillio at 444 Wooddale and owns two other businesses that are located at that site.

VIEW OF SITE FROM HOOPER — The entrance to Parcel 52, LLC’s commercial park in the foreground with the BREC park in the background.

BILLBOARD MARKS THE SPOT — The Bodi White billboard on Hooper marks the entrance to the Parcel 52 site and the BREC Sports Park behind it.


Duke Landry of Don’s Shows Form He UsedTo Win U. S., World Oyster-Shucking Crown

Don’s Seafood: A Favorite of Central

Paid for by Friends of Mike Mannino for Senate District 6

REP. BODI WHITE VOTED TO GIVE HIMSELF A MASSIVE PAY RAISE. Rep. Bodi White voted to raise his own legislative pay during the current term. Already making $42,000 a year for a part-time job (2-3 months a year), he voted to raise his pay to $62,000 a year. Gov. Jindal vetoed the bill!REP.BODIWHITEVOTEDTOTAXYOURUSEOFTHEINTERNET AND MAKE IT PROHIBITIVE FOR LOUISI-ANA COMPANIES TO SELL ON THE INTERNET. Rep. White authored a bill to begin the terrible precedent of impos-ing a monthly tax on each computer a person uses to access the Internet (HB 569 of 2009). He also voted to make our Louisi-ana businesses pay state and local sales tax on sales they make on the Internet, which would make them non-competitive with national companies selling on the Internet (HB 641 of 2011).

Understand the DifferenceBetween Bodi White and Mike Mannino

★ Will NEVER vote to increase your taxes★ Will NEVER vote to increase legislative pay

www.manninoforsenate.com

★ Pro-Life★ Pro-Family★ Pro-Business★ Anti-Gun Control

In Contrast,Mike Mannino Is a Proven Conservative

If Duke can get back in his championship form and win the overall national title, he’ll once again represent the United States at the World Oyster-Shucking Cham-pionships in Ireland. Duke won his first U.S. men’s National Championship in 1986. Each year, the men’s champion and the women’s champion have a “shuck-off” to see which of them will represent the U.S. in Ireland. “That first year, a young girl won the women’s title. Then we trained together for a couple of days be-fore the championship. I made the mistake of teaching her all my se-crets, which she learned perfectly and then beat me! I didn’t make that mistake again!” The next three years, Duke beat the female champion and went to Ireland every year to represent the

United States. The year of his 3rd overall national championship, he placed 3rd in the World Champion-ship in speed and 1st in the world in presentation. As U. S. national champion, he traveled widely, representing the oyster industry. One of the highlights of his “ce-lebrity” status was appearing on the Hollywood game show, To Tell the Truth, with Alex Trebeck. Panelists on the show were Kitty Carlisle, Orson Bean, Betty White, and Bull from Night Court. [This was obviously “back in the day!”] They had to ask Landry questions and determine whether he was the three-time overall National Oyster-Shucking Champion or the “Human Fly” who was famous for climbing tall buildings. The panelists concluded that Landry was indeed the Human

Fly! At the end of the show, Duke shucked oysters. Trebeck tried to eat an oyster and found a pearl neck-lace that had been planted there. Don’s Seafood is a legend in South Louisiana. Don Landry started Don’s in Lafayette in 1934. He was one of four brothers — Willie, Don, Ashby, and Roland Landry — and seven sisters. Don and Roland owned Don’s Beachcomber restaurant in Grand Isle. After a hurricane wiped the place out, they decided to open a new restaurant in Baton Rouge. They partnered with Earl Domingue. Don passed away not long afterwards, as did Earl and Roland’s wife Helen. Roland was left with a restaurant to run and five kids to raise without their mom. Roland remarried and his new wife Rachel raised the Landry chil-dren along with her own daughter and one child that Roland and Ra-chel had.

Lots of family members work at

DUKE LANDRY DEMONSTRATES HOW TO OPEN AN OYSTER — Opening an oyster is easy. First, cut into the eye. Second, pop it. Third, use your thumb to hold it open. Fourth, cut it from the palm side. Fifth, cut the muscle from the other side! That’s it! Wipe your knife before inserting it.

RAW OYSTERS at Don’s Seafood — personally shucked by three-time National Oyster-Shucking Champion Duke Landry.

Duke Landry: Man at Work!

Continued from Page 1See DUKE on Page 5

Phot

o by

Woo

dy Je

nkin

s

Phot

o by

Woo

dy Je

nkin

s

Phot

o by

Woo

dy Je

nkin

s

Like “Central City News” on FacebookVisit us at www.centralcitynews.us

Thank you to our sponsors:

livingstonbusiness.com piercecms.comtheadvocate.com

Come enjoy the fun.

livingstonparishnews.com

DENHAM SPRINGS ANTIQUE VILLAGE

FALL FESTIVAL150+ Booths :: Denham Springs, LA

Saturday Oct. 1 :: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.The Denham Springs Antique Fall Festival is set to be bigger and better than ever before! This year the lineup of entertainment includes the fantastic Pet Parade and Live Music at the Train Station Park. Mattie Street will be “Arts Avenue” with local artists exhibiting a variety of unique works. Other attractions include a Rock Climbing Jeeps PLUS over 150 vendors with one-of-a-kind arts and crafts, delicious food, and much more! All are invited and admission is FREE. Visit DenhamSpringsAntiqueDistrict.com.

CENTRAL CITY NEWS September 29, 2011 5

Opening an oyster is easy. First, cut into the eye. Second, pop it. Third, use your thumb to hold it open. Fourth, cut it from the palm side. Fifth, cut the muscle from the other side! That’s it! Wipe your knife before inserting it.

“”— Duke Landry, 3-time national champion

Duke Heads for Oyster-Shucking ShowdownOct. 15-16 in Maryland, Then Maybe Ireland

U. S. National Oyster Festival, Lexington Park, Md.

2 col. x 8”

Hours: 11am - 9pm Sun-Th; 11am - 10pm Fri-Sat357-0601

Your Neighborhood Tradition!Don’s...

Visit Don’s Seafood & Steak House in Baton Rouge--home of the ORIGINAL Seafood Platter and where our world famous HUSHPUPPIES are served FREE!

00* Second entrée of equal or lesser value Bring this coupon to Don's Seafood & Steak House, Inc. - Baton Rouge to receive this special offer! This $10 off second entrée or up to $5 off second lunch entrée excludes evening specials and is not valid with other offers and specials. This offer good Monday through Sunday. Dine-in only. Limit 5 coupons per table. Offer expires October 31, 2011. Specials not valid for private parties. Only original coupons are valid - copies and downloaded coupons are not accepted. CCN

Monday, Wednesday & SaturdayDine-in only.

25¢4 till 7 pm

Don’s including Duke Landry, his wife Betty, son Dustin, son-in-law Jeremy Jeansonne, Aunt Lilly’s daughter Bo Moore, and sisters Darlene and Maureen Landry. Central’s own Jeanette Eisworth and Christy Langlois have been there “forever.” Miss Shirley Anthony, the head chef, has been at Don’s for 51 years, and has been honored for her service by the Louisiana Res-taurant Association. At the National Oyster-Shucking Championship, each contestant has to shuck two dozen oysters. The elapsed time is the base line. Then the judges inspect each oyster for cuts or the presence of dirt. Each negative discovery results in three seconds being deducted from the contestant’s time. What is Duke’s key to victory? “I use a slightly different tech-nique, and I’m very careful about dirt getting into the oyster. Even under the pressure of the clock, I wipe the knife before each inser-tion. This takes time but it’s better than losing three seconds for every fault,” he said. Most people in South Louisiana love raw oysters, Duke said. Do they like them small, me-dium, or large? Duke said, “Most people like them medium. But they like the large ones for frying.” Why do people have such a hard time eating their first oyster?

How do people end up finally trying that first oyster? Duke laughed and said, “Usually someone dares them and they take the dare and get roped into it. They put sauce and crackers all over it. Sometimes they spent five minutes decorating the oyster!” Why do people keep eating raw oysters? Duke said, “It’s the taste!” If all this is making you think of oysters, Don’s Seafood at 6823 Airline is open seven days a week. There’s an Oyster Special on Mon-day, Wednesday, and Saturday when the price is $3 a dozen, or 25 cents each. Normally, a dozen costs $7. The latest craze at Don’s is Jacked Up Oysters. Brent Poche gave me one, and it was delicious! Duke said he makes them with pepperjack cheese and bacon bits. Then they are charbroiled. Charbroiled oysters use romano cheese and seasoned butter, he said. Why is Duke Landry returning to compete once again for the National Oyster-Shucking Championship? It’s about pride — pride in Don’s, pride in Baton Rouge, pride in the seafood industry, and pride in Louisiana. After all, in the past 50 years, Duke Landry is the only Louisian-ian ever to win the National Oys-ter-Shucking Championship.

Duke said, “I think it’s the tex-ture and just the thought of it!”

Central’s Brent Poche, a regular at Don’s, vouches for the Jacked Up Oysters.

JACKED UP OYSTERS at Don’s Seafood. They’re a lot like charbroiled oysters but even better. Photo by Woody Jenkins of Central City News.

Continued from Page 4

Phot

o by

Woo

dy Je

nkin

s

Phot

o by

Woo

dy Je

nkin

s


CENTRAL — On Friday, Sept. 9 students, teachers, and staff at Tanglewood Elementary partici-pated in the NFL Play 60 Back to Football Friday Health and Well-ness grant opportunity. The NFL awards 34 grants in the amount of $10,000 to elementary schools around the nation as part of their Play 60 initiative. Each year on the Friday before the first regular season NFL games, schools hold a Back to Football celebration for a chance to win the grant money. Tanglewood Elementary had activities planned throughout the day. Students were able to wear Saints shirts and teachers wore ref-eree shirts for the festivities. All teachers and approximately 100 students participated in a Flash

Tanglewood Makes Play for NFL Dough

Mob on the court before school, students were from Mrs. Breaux, Mrs. Carline, Mrs. Rispone, and Mrs. Smith’s classes. As Mrs. Davis was talking to the students, the Monday Night Football theme song, “Are You Ready for Some Football,” began playing and stu-dents and teachers began their cho-reographed dance. Students who participated in the Flash Mob wore special white t-shirts with the NFL logo on the front. During PE class, Coach Brian Brown had students participating in NFL Training Camp-style drills, including passing drills, tire drills, and the shuttle run. Tanglewood students were able to experience what it is like to be in the NFL. The cafeteria staff created a

Saints tailgate atmosphere in the cafeteria. Students tables were ar-ranged so that the cafeteria staff could set up a Saints tent equipped with standard tailgating items. Stu-dents were served a healthy lunch and experienced a real tailgating atmosphere. The day culminated in a Touch-down Celebration assembly. Each class had selected a person to rep-resent their class in a touchdown celebration competition. Each stu-dent was able to simulate scoring a touchdown and then display their celebration. Our second grade winner was Dylan Bergeron from Mrs. Lewis’ class and our third grade winner was Destiney Gary from Mrs. O’Quinn’s class. The day was exciting and fun

for the students, teachers, and staff. Pictures and a 100-word write-up will be submitted and then Tangle-wood will await word on whether or not they are selected as one of the $10,000 grant winners. If awarded the grant, the $10,000 will be used to purchase playground equipment to enhance health and wellness at Tanglewood Elementary. The NFL Play 60 Mission is “To make the next generation of youth the most active and healthy.” In October 2007, the NFL launched NFL Play 60, a national youth health and fitness campaign focused on increasing the wellness of young infants by encouraging them to be active for at least 60 minutes a day.

“ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL” — (left photo) Tanglewood students from Mrs. Breaux, Mrs. Carline, Mrs. Rispone, and Mrs. Smith’s classes participated in a Flash Mob. Russell Chin, Ethan Montgomery, Ethan Belding, and Kevin Bacon (right photo).

WINNERS OF THE TOUCHDOWN CELEBRATION — Pictured with assistant principal Jason Fountain are 2nd grade winner Dylan Bergeron and 3rd grade winner Destiney Gary. Anthony Stewart (right photo) ran through the Tire Drill.

Urgent Care andWalk-In Clinic

Bryan Barrett, MDMichael Romaguera, MD

11055 Shoe Creek Dr.Central, La. 70818

Between Sullivan and Joorroads at the corner of Hooper

and Shoe Creek Dr.www.statcareclinic.net

225.261.4493

9 am to 9 pm7 Days A Week

GIRLS LOVE THEIR FOOTBALL — (left photo) Londyn Dixon, Adyson Larue, Kylie Guidry, and Naylea Lopez. Madeline Harts and Karsyn Tourere (right photo).

CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, Septembr 29, 2011 7

Magnolia UMC Homecoming Oct. 2

required. For information or to pre-register, call 654-5263.

Friday, October 7CHS Hall of Fame

This year’s Central High Hall of Fame Inductees will be the 1992, 1993, and 1995 State Championship Baseball Teams. The teams were coached by Randy Blanchard, a cur-rent member of the Hall of Fame. A reception for the inductees will be at the Central Middle cafeteria at 5:30 p.m. prior to the Central vs. Zach-ary game. The new inductees will be honored at halftime. Players of these teams should email Sid Edwards at [email protected].

Saturday, October 8GarageSale•8a.m.to2p.m.

Grace United Pentecostal Church, 13845 Hooper Road, is hosting a Ga-rage Sale. They are selling spots for sellers of garage sale items or crafts. All profits are the sellers to keep. Cost per spot is $20. For information, call 615-8000 or [email protected].

Saturday, October 8CHS ROTC Jambalaya Fundraiser

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Central High School ROTC will be selling jambalaya dinners at the Walgreen’s at 6515 Sullivan Road.

Sunday, October 9St. Alphonsus Hall of Fame

10 a.m. St. Alphonsus Hall of Fame 2011 recipients will be inducted at 10 a.m. Mass. Now is the time to nominate someone you believe has given of his time, talent, and energy to the better-ment of St. Alphonsus Parish. Dead-line Friday, Aug. 19. Nomination forms can be picked up in the church office or visit www.stalphonsusbr.org.

Tuesday, October 11DiabetesSupportGroup•6p.m.

You’re invited to Lane Regional Medical Center’s Diabetes Support Group. Registration is not required. For information, contact Sherri Brady, RN at 658-4583.

Saturday, October 15RosaryRally•12noon

The Annual Public Square Ro-sary Rally will be held at the corner of Hooper and Sullivan roads and at the corner of Hooper and Greenwell Springs roads.

Saturday, October 15Baker High Class of 1981

The Baker High Class of 1981 will celebrate their 30-year reunion at the Crowne Plaza. The class seeks class-mates from 1980, 1981, and 1982 classes. For information, email Su-zie Watson Jullens at [email protected].

Sunday, October 16Aaulora’sTeaParty•1to4p.m.

A Tea Party fundraiser will be held for Aaulora Kesner and her family who lost their home to a fire back in July. Proceeds will be used to furnish her new bedroom and any other needs

such as clothes, toys, etc. Tea party at 12221 Blackwater Road. Cost $25 (includes one child and one chaper-one). Each girl will get a tea cup and saucer to take home, a wrist corsage, a party favor, and will get to make their own hair fascinator. Finger foods and beverages will be served. For infor-mation or tickets, contact Donna Du-four at 324-0851 or Gloria Chiek at 261-4844.

Thursday, October 20ANightontheBayou•5:30p.m.

The City of Central Chamber of Commerce will present “A Night on the Bayou” featuring Troy Landry of “Swamp People.” The event will be at the Central High Gym. General ad-mission is $35 per person. Catering by Kristenwood Catering. For infor-mation, call 261-5818.

AED AWARENESS SAVES LIVES — As part of Lane Regional Medical Center’s com-munity awareness initiative, 14 hospital volunteers went to 22 area schools to teach more than 1,200 staff members how to use an Automated External Defibrillator to save lives in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. Pictured are (left to right) Ellen Frazier, principal of Central Private and Amy Lea, an RN at Lane Regional.

ATTENTION CHURCHESSend us your Fall Festival

information, email [email protected]

or drop off at 13567 Hooper(next to Central Drugs)

CENTRAL — Events coming up in and around Central:

Thursday, September 29ProstateCancerScreening•6p.m. Lane Regional Medical Center and urologist Dr. Robert Grissom will host a free prostate cancer screening. Ap-pointments are required and space is limited. Call 654-5263 to schedule your appointment today.

Saturday, October 1Denham Springs Fall Festival

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The place to be is the Denham Springs Antique District for the an-nual Fall Festival. There will be over 150 booths featuring local and region-al vendors showcasing their crafts, antiques, and art. Entertainment will feature Anita Leblanc and Friends, 9 to 10 a.m.; Vintage, 10 to 11 a.m.; The Pets on Parade Show, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Ben Bell and the Stardust Boys, 12 to 1 p.m.; The King Creole Or-chestra, 1 to 2 p.m.; and Floyd Brown Band, 2 to 4 p.m.

Sunday, October 2Bethany Baptist of Baywood

Homecoming The church family would like to invite everyone to join in Homecom-ing Services at Bethany Baptist of Baywood. Bible Study and Sunday School starts at 9:30 a.m., church ser-vices at 10:30 a.m., and dinner on the grounds to follow. For information, call 719-1253.

Sunday, October 2Magnolia UMC Homecoming

Former members and friends of Magnolia United Methodist Church on Greenwell Springs Road are invit-ed to attend the church’s Homecoming Services. Service begins at 11 a.m. with a covered dish dinner to follow in the family life center. Rev. Tommy Bergeron, former pastor of Magnolia, will be guest speaker. For information, call the church office at 261-2789.

Monday, October 3Biddy Basketball Coaches

Meeting•6p.m. There will be a Biddy Basketball Coaches Meeting at Central High School in the boys’ locker room. For information, contact Ron Lewis at [email protected] or 261-3169 or Scott Osborne at [email protected].

Tuesday, October 4Walk the Red Carpet Health Fair

9 a.m. to 12 noon St. Alphonsus will hold their an-nual health fair “Walk the Red Carpet to Good Health” at the church. There will be over 30 vendors with health information as well as free screen-ings including cholesterol, EKG, and cardiovascular screenings. Doctors will be available for questions and concerns. Flu and Pneumonia shots will be available. Refreshments and door prizes will be part of this premier event. Everyone is invited.

Tuesday, October 4BusinessAfterHours•6p.m.

The City of Central Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours will be at Sweet Impressions, 17661 Greenwell Springs Road.

Wednesday, October 5AARP Driver Safety Course

8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The AARP Driver Safety Course will be held at Lane Regional Medi-cal Center. This classroom refresher course for drivers age 50 and older will help you learn the effects of aging on driving and how to adjust and re-main safe on today’s roads. Most auto insurance companies provide a mul-tiyear discount to course graduates. Class size is limited and registration is

Saturday, October 22CentralAreaHorseShow•10a.m. The Central Area Horse Show, sponsored by the Deep South Stock Horse Show Association, will be held at the Shady Park Arena on Green-well Springs Road. Judged and timed events in four age groups. Beginners welcome. For info, www.dsshsa.org.

October 28 through 31Haunted House

A Haunted House and family fun activities will be held at 6010 Wet Creek Ave. in the back of Forest Glen Estates. The haunted house will be open 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 28 through 30 and 6 to 10 p.m. on Halloween night. Plus on Halloween night there will be a trick or treat hay ride and games for the small children. Donations of non-perishable foods will be collected for the Central City Food Bank. Find us on Facebook at Blood Creek Manor.

Saturday, October 29AnnualDinner/RaffleandLiveAuction•7p.m.

Central Private Parents’ Club will hold its’ Annual Dinner/Raffle and Live Auction in the high school gym. Tickets are now on sale! There will be a live auction following dinner. Remember there are only 300 tickets available! For information or to make a donation, call 261-3313.

November 15 through 17CHS Library Book Fair

A Library Book Fair will be held at the Central High School Library.

Thursday, December 1Zoar Baptist Church Ladies’

Christmas Bazaar and Dinner If you are interested in being a ven-dor for the Zoar Baptist Church La-dies’ Christmas Bazaar and Dinner, contact Sonya at [email protected] or 261-3434. Booth rentals are $30 and deadline to apply is Sunday, Nov. 6.

“When experience, education

and Conservative

values matter most

to you.”

www.BarryElkinsStateRep.com Paid for by the Campaign to Elect Barry Elkins

Smart Economic Growth

No More Needless Taxes

Improve Existing Infrastructure

Ensure Safety of District #64


HAMILTON, GATECHAIRKendall Hamilton and Joseph Gat-echair will wed Nov. 11 at Elegant Memories.

Births • Engagements • Weddings • DeathsAnniversaries • Reunions

Milestones AMEDEE, BARBERErica Amedee and Andrew Barber were wed May 28 at Forrest Grove Plantation in Denham Springs.

Hamilton, Gatechair to WedNov. 11 at Elegant Memories

CENTRAL — Kendall Kelley Ham-ilton of Greenwell Springs and Jo-seph Goodyear Gatechair, Jr. of Baton Rouge will marry in a 7 p.m. ceremony Friday, Nov. 11, 2011, at Elegant Memories in Greenwell Springs.

The bride-elect is the daugh-ter of Jerry and Mandy Hamilton of Greenwell Springs. She is the granddaughter of Willie Mae Kel-ley and the late Clifton W. Kelley, Sr. of Baton Rouge and Ouida Z. Hamilton and the late George C. Hamilton of Central. Kendall is a graduate of Cen-tral High School and Southeastern Louisiana University. Her fiancé is the son of Joe and Jenny Gatechair of Violet and Trudy and David Beach of Ba-ton Rouge. He is the grandson of Teeny and Johnnie LeBlanc of Gonzales and Earsking and Janie Gatechair of Avondale and the late Annabelle Goodyear Gatechair of Violet. Joseph is a graduate of Dutch-town High School and attended Southeastern Louisiana Univer-sity. The couple was honored at a Couples Shower at the home of the bride’s aunt and uncle, Amy and Timothy Kelley.

Kendall Hamilton and Joseph Gatechair

Verkaik, Burton Will Wed Oct. 8At Elegant Affairs in Gonzales

Devin Burton and Kacie Verkaik

GONZALES — Kacie Nicole Verkaik of Central and Devin Mi-chael Burton of Zachary will be joined together in holy matrimony in a 6 p.m. ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, at Elegant Affairs in Gonzales. Pastor Mark LaCour will officiate. The bride-elect is the daughter of Tim and Aileen Verkaik of Cen-tral. She is the granddaughter of Gerard and Willy Verkaik of Spo-kane, Wash. and the late Thomas and Alma Boyd of Jay, Fla. Kacie is a 2006 graduate of Central High School. Her fiancé is the son of Dar-ren Burton of Howell, Mich. and Tina Palmer of Gonzales. He is the grandson of Johnny and Sherry Burton of Zachary, the late John McMillan of Walker, and the late Glenda Foreman of Gonzales. Devin is a 2006 graduate of North-east High School.

Emma Grace Rasch Luke and Marissa Rasch are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Emma Grace. Emma was born Aug. 4, 2011, at 7:35 a.m. at Woman’s Hospital. She weighed seven pounds, two ounces, and 19.5 inches long.

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Barber

Amedee, Barber Exchanged Vows DENHAM SPRINGS — Erica Eliza-beth Amedee of Pride and Andrew Niel Barber of Central were mar-ried in a 2 p.m. ceremony May 28, 2011, at Forrest Grove Plantation. The Rev. Dennis McAnally offici-ated. The bride is the daughter of Vickie and Roger Amedee of Pride. She is the granddaughter of Jimmie Swain and the late Richardine Swain and the late Richard and Ethel Amedee. The bridegroom is the son of An-gie and Guy Christen of Central and Niel Barber of Baton Rouge. He is the grandson of Bert and Carol Wroten and Harry Barber, Jr. and the late Shirley Barber. The bride was attended by her maid of honor, Jessica Fischer. Her bridesmaids were Amanda Amedee, Rachel Barber, Stephanie Amedee, Heather Tuerschmann, Brooke Hofstetter, and Liz Boyd. Flower girl was Sophie Spreen. The bridegroom was attended by his best man, Kevin Wiater. Groomsmen were Josh Harrington, Charles DeDeaux, Ryan Messmer,

Nick Keaton, Eric Ament, and Adam Procell. Ushers were John Starns, Will Barber, and Terry Brown. Ring bearer was Ernie Spreen, IV. Following a wedding trip to Grand Cayman, the couple resides in Gonzales.

Callie Faith Daigle Jeremy and Trudi (Schulingkamp) Daigle are proud to announce the birth of their second child, Callie Faith. She was welcomed home by big brother, Justin Cole. Callie was born at Woman’s Hospi-tal on Aug. 3, 2011, at 3:53 a.m. She weighed four pounds, 4.5 ounces, and was 17.75 inches long. Proud grandparents are James and Rhonda Daigle of Denham Springs, Bob and Patricia Zillen of Baton Rouge, and Byron and Tanya Schul-ingkamp of Central.

Mason Ross Valladares Christy Roe and Dennis Valladares are proud to announce the birth of their son, Mason Ross. Mason was born on June 28, 2011, at 4:21 p.m. at Woman’s Hospital. He weighed seven pounds, 12 ounces, and was 20.25 inches long. Proud grandparents are Chip and Karen Roe of Central and Delia Val-ladares of Danli, Honduras. Great-grandparents are Garland and Nell Watts and Thelma Rose of Central.


Noah Bradley Pine Brad and Michelle (Eldridge) Pine are proud to announce the birth of their son, Noah Bradley. He was welcomed home by big sister, Lily Monroe. Noah was born at the Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet on May 2, 2011, at 10:07 p.m. He weighed eight pounds, 14 ounces, and was 20 inches long. Proud grandparents are Huey and Sandra Eldridge, Dale and Linder Richter, and Thomas Pine. Great-grandparents are Nell Passman, Bobby and Betty Passman, TJ and Dot Tarver, and TE and Nadine Pine.

Abigail Rose Vanveckhoven Gregg and Tammy (Tate) Vanveck-hoven are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Abigail Rose. Abigail was born May 5, 2011, at 4:42 p.m. at Woman’s Hospital. She weighed eight pounds, 2.9 ounces, and was 20.75 inches long. Proud grandparents are Jesse and Phyllis Tate of Central, Larry and Mar-lene Cook of Denham Springs, and Richard and Brenda Vanveckhoven of Clinton, Tenn. Great-grandmother is Grace Hays of Baton Rouge.

Angela Gerald and Frank Rice, Jr.Wed March 4 at St. Alphonsus

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hilton Rice, Jr.

CENTRAL — Angela Rose Gerald and Frank Hilton Rice, Jr., both of Central, were married in a 7 p.m. ceremony March 4, 2011, at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church. The Rev. Michael Moroney officiated. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas “T.W.” Gerald of Central. She is the granddaughter of Sadie M. Giambrone and the late Sabastian “Buster” Giambrone and the late David E. and Inez M. Gerald. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hilton Rice, Sr. of Central. He is the grandson of Virginia Youngblood and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hilton Rice, the late Marie Rice, and the late Billie Youngblood. The bride was attended by her matrons of honor, Michelle Gerald Cornett and Ashley Paddie Manni-no. Bridesmaids were Janai Gerald Sharkey, Amanda Namie Juneau, Lauren Youngblood Rucker, Astrid Schindler Rice, and Chailyn Alex-is Cornett. Flower girl was Claire Marie Cornett. The bridegroom was attended by his best man Frank Hilton Rice, Sr. Groomsmen were Ryan Hilton Rice, James Paul Creel, Ty Roy, Ryan James Juneau, Kyle Nathan Mautner, Brandon Lewis Marino, and Braxton Darryl Marino. Ju-nior groomsman was Cade Sabas-tian Marino. Ushers were Rus-sell Roy Marino, Michael Gerald, Daniel Paul Rice, and Jesse Arling Marcus. Ring bearer was Connor Thomas Cornett. Readers were Gaye Stanly and

Terry Tullier. Soloist was Amy Scheurich House and trumpet player Lance Moulin. A reception took place at Reflec-tions. Following a wedding trip to St. Lucia, the couple will reside in Central.

MILESTONESSend births, engagements, weddings, anniversaries, hon-ors, awards, special events, reunions, and deaths to [email protected], or Box 1, Central, LA 70739, or de-liver to 13567 Hooper Rd.

Emma Kate Arzymanow Mark and Lisa (Morris) Arzyman-ow are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Emma Kate. She was welcomed home by big brother, Ethan. Emma was born on May 25, 2011, at 10:07 a.m. at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas. She weighed seven pounds, 13 ounces, and was 20.25 inches long. Proud grandparents are Michael and Nelwyn Morris of Central and George and Christine Arzymanow of Houston.

The Central Community School System is beginning a strate-gic planning process to develop a road map for the school system. It is important that we hear from you on the future direction of the school district before the plan is developed.

Please take the following opportunities to give your input into the plan:

1) Attend a community meeting on September 29, 2011 at the Central High School Theatre. The meeting will begin at 6:00 P.M. and end by 9:00 P.M. Most of the meeting time will be spent in small groups discussing the school system and the hopes commu-nity members have for the school system.

2) An online survey is available to allow those who cannot at-tend the meeting a way to give input. A link to the survey is on the school system’s website: http://centralcss.org/district_office/strategic-planning-survey/. If you do not have access to the inter-net, a hard copy of the survey may be picked up at any school or the school board office.

LEND YOUR IDEAS TO CENTRALCOMMUNITY SCHOOL SYSTEM’S

FUTURE PLANS

Central Community School System

beings together the best of both worlds. It’s a true compromise, and I feel it’s one that will work well for Central,” he said. More than 30 citizens went to the podium during the public hearing on the ordinance. Here is a sample of some of their sentiments: • Jr. Shelton, a candidate for Mayor in the last election and a member of the committee, said, “The study committee had lots of participation and a very construc-tive and cooperative approach. Its recommendation was not ‘incon-clusive’ as some have reported but


Plan Includes District, At-Large Seats

Classifieds$6 for first 10 words. $10 for 11 to 20 words, $15 for 21 to 30 words. $20 for 31 to 40 words. $25 for one column inch classified display ad. Call 261-5055. Must be paid in advance. To pay by credit card, go to www.centralcitynews.us and click “Pay Now” on the left. Then email ad copy to [email protected]. Or mail or hand deliver check and ad copy to Central City News, 13567 Hooper, Central, LA 70818. There is an after-hours drop box.4.9 ACRES IN GILLSBURG, MS. — Bor-dered by two creeks with old house, used as hunting camp. Has 20 acres of 20 year old pines. Phone 225-261-2551. 09/29/11FREE TO GOOD HOME — Two AKC registered English Bulldogs. Loving and playful. If interested contact [email protected]. 09/29/11HOME REPAIR AND IMPROVEMENT — No job too small. Free estimates, 35 years’ experience. Local. 225-505-7675 or 225-505-7674. 09/29/11

a portion of the cost to construct a 750-foot-long street which will serve as the access road to their park I also wish to make it known that Rep. White was not involved in the creation of Central Auction House, LTD. The 2008 House Bill 610 was one of many pieces of progressive legislation pertaining to electronic bidding since 2001. • 2001 HB 888 allows transmis-sion data for Louisiana procurement electronically • 2003 Central Auction House began developing its proprietary software • 2006 LA DOTD begins accept-ing electronic bids with bidx.com • 2006 the Office of the Gov-ernor, Division of Administration, Office of Information Technology, promulgates the rules for Louisi-ana Political Subdivisions to accept electronic bids • 2006 Central Auction House, LTD registers with the LA Secre-tary of State and begins providing e-bidding services • 2008 HB 610 receives unani-mous approval from LA House and Senate & Governor Jindal signs into law • 2010 LA DOTD requires that all bids must be submitted electron-ically • 2011 HB 192 receives unani-mous approval from LA House and Senate & Governor Jindal signs into law • 2011 SB 83 by Senator Jack Donahue authorizing Reverse Auc-tions is signed by the Governor At this juncture, I can only stress

how unnecessary these errors and omissions were. This fiasco could have been avoided by simply con-tacting us before running your story. Sincerely, E. Gordon Rogillio Jr. [Editor’s Note: We did contact Rep. Bodi White on two occasions prior to last week’s story to ask for his comments, but he did not re-spond.]

bers would be elected from five single-member districts, and two would be elected at-large citywide. At present, all five City Council members are elected at large city-wide. The plan is a compromise be-tween the desire to have all areas of the city represented through sin-gle-member districts and members elected with a citywide perspective at-large. The issue produced a large turn-out of citizens, representing a wide variety of opinions. The reapportionment plan was approved by a vote of 3 to 2 with Mayor Pro-Tem Ralph Washing-ton, and Councilmen Messina and Dr. Tony LoBue voting in favor and Councilmen Louis DeJohn and Aaron Moak voting against. The measure now goes to May-or Mac Watts for his signature or veto. If he vetoes the ordinance and that veto is not overridden, the City Council would remain with five members elected at large. Opponents of the reapportion-ment plan sent numerous speakers to the microphone, including five members of the Freneaux family, and they offered several amend-ments. However, Councilmen Washington, Messina, and Lobue voted together throughout the night. On Wednesday, Councilman Wayne Messina, the author of the plan, said, “I’m happy. I feel com-fortable with what was done. We held numerous hearings, and the vote was in accordance with the majority of the people of Central.” “Using both single-member dis-tricts and at-large representation


very clear in favor of five districts and two at-large. Adding more representation is a good thing.” • Tom Belcher said, “We’re running a $1 million a year surplus and just had a study committee that saved another $500,000 a year on city services. This will cost only $20,000 a year and provide better representation. It’s well worth it.” • Ted McCulley said the com-promise is similar to what the Founders favored when they cre-ated the Senate and the House with two senators from each state and House members based on popula-

tion. “It will give us better repre-sentation,” he said. • R. J. Saucier said, “Districts are the best but it does lead to po-larization. We need to balance that with Councilmen with a citywide perspective. This is not an expan-sion of government as some have argued. This creates no new em-ployees or bureaucracy.” • Harry Rauls said, “The best economic development we can have is good, honest government, and having seven representatives on the Council will provide more people helping the city.” • Gil Matherne said, “Seven is better. It gets more people working for us. In business, if I try to do ev-erything myself, that doesn’t work. Having a larger group of Council-men is planning for the future.” • But Mike Stevens favored electing Councilmen at-large city-wide by divisions with Council-men then assigned to represent a specific district. • Kandi Jones of CentralSpeaks suggested the real motivation of the plan was the reelection of in-cumbents. • T. J. Johnson said the plan should be submitted to the voters, but City Attorney Sherri Morris said that was impossible without a change in state law. • Paul Burns said the present five-member, at-large system is the best. Sammy Rispone agreed that the present system was the best. • Jeannie Barnett also spoke in favor keeping five at-large. “Creat-ing districts will cause divisions,” she said. • Michele Freneaux supported having five districts. • Wade Giles said he favors hav-ing election by districts, whether it be five or seven. • Lucky Ross said he still fa-vors all being elected at-large. After the public hearing, the Council debated the measure. Councilman Messina recounted the six public hearings his commit-tee held and reported on his own investigation of the matter. He spoke to Mayors and Councilmen in cities similar in size to Central, and they said a combination of sin-gle-member districts and at-large


Co-Owner of Parcel 52Tells His Side of Events

Composition of City Councilsin Mid-Sized Louisiana Cities

10

9

8

7

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 12th 13th

Kenner

Bossier City

Monroe

New Iberia

Slidell

Central

Alexandria

Ruston

At Large Seats District Seats

Population Rank Among Louisiana Cities

Num

ber o

f City

Cou

ncil

Seat

s

PASSED REAPPORTIONMENT PLAN — Councilman Wayne Messina (left) authored a plan to reapportion the Central City Council into a seven-member body with five elected from single-member districts and two at-large. Councilman Tony LoBue provided strong support.

representatives is the best in their own experience. Councilman Tony LoBue gave a slide show presentation analyzing the various options the city faces and concluded that a combination of districts and at-large works the best. The graphic on Page 12 was one of his slides. It compares what Louisiana cities are doing that are similar in size to Central. Most have a mixed system. LoBue also said his research showed five was a rather small number of Council-men for a city the size of Central. Mayor Pro-Tem Ralph Washing-ton said all decisions of the Coun-cil should be made based on what is best for the community. “The only reason I ran for the Council is to serve the community. I work hard. I do a lot of reading and a lot of research. It’s not about money or power. [Under the Lawrason


Q. How many Colors are there?A. In1903,thefirstCrayolashad8. But we’ll offer 17,000,000!

Commercial Printing

On Sept. 24, 2011, the National Newspaper Association honoredtheCentralCityNewswith2ndPlaceinAmericafor Best Use of Color—amongalldailyandweeklynews-papers in the country! Now the Central City News will help your business use COLOR—orplainoldblackandwhite—forallyourprintingneeds.Whetherit’s100or1,000,000copies. Mailings too, whether in Central or across America.

Coming Soon to the Central City News!

& The Leader


®


NEWSNEWSCENTRAL CITYCENTRAL CITY

13567HooperRoad•[email protected]

Act] we actually have very little power. So many things have been said that are hurtful. I want this city to come together. The last time we were united was the first Cookin’ in Central. Think about Central and how to make it better. In this case, why ask the commit-tee members to dedicate so much time and then ignore their recom-mendations?” Councilman Louis DeJohn spoke against the Messina plan and offered amendments to change it. The first DeJohn plan would have created a five-member Coun-cil with five at-large divisions. This was defeated 2-3 with only DeJohn and Moak voting for. Councilman Aaron Moak of-fered an amendment to submit the proposed ordinance to a vote of the people. However, City Attor-ney Sherri Morris said the Coun-

www.tradeconstruction.com

17043 Joor Rd, Zachary, LA 70791

T 225.654.7741 F 225.654.7763

Trading The righT maTchbox cars as a kid was often a tough decision. Finding the right company to handle your pipe fabrication, pipeline equipment and industrial construction needs is not. Trade Construction is privately owned and smaller than some of our competitors, which means we react quickly and make changes that efficiently meet our customers’ needs. Quality work, customer satisfaction and no red tape… it’s how we roll.

WannaTrade?

cil has no power to submit such a referendum under present state law. Moak said he was willing to go to the legislature and ask them to change state law for Central. Moak’s amendment failed by the same 2-3. Then DeJohn offered an amendment to have a five-member

Council, all elected from districts. This failed 2-3 also. If Mayor Mac Watts signs the ordinance, the Council has to adopt proposed districts and submit the final plan to the Justice Depart-ment for approval under the Voting Rights Act.

LARGE ATTENDANCE AT REAPPORTIONMENT HEARING — Nearly 100 Central residents attended Tuesday night’s City Council at Kristenwood on Greenwell Springs Road

SPEAKERS ON REAPPORTIONMENT — Speakers in favor of the 5+2 plan included (left to right) Brennan Easley, Tom Belcher, Harry Rauls, and R. J. Saucier. Opponents included Jonathan Starns, Jeannie Barnett, T. J. Johnson, and Keith Kepper.


Delivery of Channel Catfish, Bass, Hybrid Bluegill, Redear Bream, Coppernose Blue-gill, Fathead Minnows, Koi, Black Crappie and Grass Carp are available for pond and lake stocking. A permit and 10 days notice are required for the purchase of Triploid Grass Carp.

•Wefurnishhaulingcontainers•Livedeliveryguaranteed•Discounts/specialdeliveriesonlargeorders•Turtletraps,fishfeeders,fishtraps•Decorativefountains,aerators,windmillaerators•Vegetationcontrolandpondfertilizers

P.O. Box 85 Fittstown, OK 74842www.dunnsfishfarm.com

(800) 433-2950To place an order or for more informa-

tion, call one of our Aquatic Consultants, your local dealer, or email: sales@

dunnsfishfarm.com

Delivery will be Friday, October 7Slaughter•TriParishCo-op•Hwy.19N•8:00-9:00a.m.

Clinton•FelicanaFarmer’sCo-op•Hwy.10&Montgomery•10:00-11:00a.m.St.Francisville•PlantationFeed&Supply•7708Hwy.61•12:00-1:00p.m.Zachary•ZacharyFeed&GardenSupply•20987Plank•2:00-3:00p.m.

DenhamSprings•DodgeCityFarmSupply•101HatcellLane•4:00-5:00p.m.

M-F•7:00a.m.-6p.m.•Sat8:00a.m.-5p.m.CST1-800-433-2950Fax1-580-777-2899www.dunnsfishfarm.com

Central Beats Catholic, Hosts St. Amant

CENTRAL — Central had an impor-tant, come-from-behind 34-19 vic-tory over traditional rival Catholic High last Friday night at Memorial Stadium. The Wildcats return home at 7 p.m. this Friday for a game against St. Amant at Wildcat Stadium. Central coach Doug Dotson said

the win over Catholic definitely provided a “shot in the arm” for the Wildcats. “It’s always good to beat Catholic High,” he said. “It was a tale of two halves. We didn’t per-form in the first half, but we chal-lenged the team at halftime, and they responded.” Central was fortunate to end the first half behind Catholic only 12-7. It could have been much worse. Probably the most important play of the game was an interception by Central’s Dalton Holdman late in the 2nd half. Catholic was ahead 12-0 and poised to score again. That would have put the Wildcats down by three TD’s. Instead, Hold-

man’s pick turned the momentum around and Central marched down the field to score right before the half, leaving it 12-7. Unfortunately, Holdman suffered a season-ending ACL injury later in the game. He will have surgery on Monday, and Coach Dotson asked that everyone pray for the talented sophomore linebacker. Zach Evans, who has been re-

covering from injuries himself, had a good game against Catholic, rush-ing for 104 yards on 22 carries. Junior quarterback Brett Cour-ville was steady — as usual. He completed 10 of 16 passes for 216 yards and three TD’s. These includ-ed TD’s of 21 and 57 yards to soph-omore Gary Triplet and 67 yards to junior Devon Gales. Dotson said the team is really be-ginning to benefit from senior RB Zach Evans’ return. “He has a lot of ability. He runs hard and made some great cuts in the game.” Coach Dotson couldn’t say

Central 34 Catholic 19St. Amant at Central

7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 30Photos by Theresa Thornhill

Thibodeaux

Central High School quarterback Brett Courville (left) completed 10 of 16 passes for 216 yards and three TD’s in Central’s 34-19 victory over Catholic. Devon Gales at right.

JonathonThibodeaux

CENTRAL — Central school board president Dr. Jim Gard-ner has invited everyone who supports the Central school sys-tem to come to the Central High Theatre tonight at 6 p.m. for the first public hearing on develop-ing a Strategic Plan for the Cen-tral Community School System. Gardner said attendees should consider 1) what you’re most proud of in Central schools, 2) top issues facing students today, and 3) what suggestions you have for making Central into a world-class school system. “Please come!” Gardner said.

Gardner InvitesCentral CitizensTo Turn Out forPlanning Meet

Central Schools


NEWSCENTRAL CITY

NEWSCENTRAL CITY

SPRING 2010

How to Choose the Right Doctor4 Things to Look for in a Hospital

Guide to Health Clubs and Fitness Centers

How to Choose the Right Doctor4 Things to Look for in a Hospital

Guide to Health Clubs and Fitness Centers

Central

Health Fitness

&

GUIDECIRCULATION 74,000

GUIDE

Health Fitness

&

CIRCULATION 74,000

Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011

Special Editions That Deliver

Contact Your Account Executive Shara Pollard at 933-2368 or Jolice Provost at 405-8894 or Candi Lee at 261-5055.Did You Know... the Central City News Is One of the Most Honored Newspapers in Louisiana? Honored by the Louisiana Press Association and the National Newspaper Association for • GeneralExcellence •BestColumnist • BestFrontPage •BestCommunityService • BestNewsCoverage •BestSpecialSection • BestNewsPhoto •BestFeaturePhotoBut Our Biggest Honor Is Just to Represent Central.

Central Election Guide

Central Election Guide

Saturday, Oct. 22, 2011

Candidates & IssuesThursday, Oct. 6, 2011

Upcoming Special Editions of Central City News

Central Health & Fitness Guide•Oct.6,2011Physicians•HealthCareProfessionals•HospitalsHealthCareFacilities•Fitness•PhysicalTherapyDiet,Nutrition,Vitamins,andFood•RestaurantsCentral Election Guide•Oct.13,2011•StateandLocal Candidates in Oct. 22 Primary Elections

13567 Hooper Road • (225) 261-5055 • [email protected]

Central High School Freshman Team

2011 Central High School Freshman Team

1 Chandler Hollingworth2 Leo Brownfield3 Ben Averette4 Mason Guerin5 Rivers King6 Daelon Richardson7 Anthony Johnson8 Brady Munn9 Terrell Chatman10 Tyler Sansone11 Shane Smith12 Micah Venable

13 Marceo Pitts14 Terrance Martin15 Jared Leger16 Dylan Marson17 Logan Prudhome18 Cameron Wesley19 Jordan Johnson21 Trae Ball22 Matthew Harris23 Traylon Douglas24 Troy Lawrence25 Justin Vessel

26 Aubrey Mitchell27 Stephen Pursifull28 Kevin Henry30 Brennon Young31 Nick Handy32 Brennan Fontenot33 Rayvon Scott34 James Schoup35 Jeremy Jackson36 Dayton Knippers38 Jett Ashford40 Rodney Johnson

41 Nicholas Sapp45 Payton Beard46 Christian McKneely50 Matt Coates51 Cameron Hooper54 Corey O’Bear55 Chris Chambliss57 Jace Bragg60 Jeremy Vaughn61 Matthew Case63 Jaylon Turner65 John Hodges

Coaches: Head coach and offensive coordinator Mike Gardner, defensive coor-dinator Brandon Oneal, Offensive/defensive line Stuart Chambliss, quarter-back/defensive backs Cody Davis, linebackers/running backs Justin Stafford, wide receivers/defensive backs Lee Hawkins, and team manager Greg Noel

70 Landon Newsom72 Austin Arnold75 Gannon Triggs77 Ethan Bartel79 Blasé Courville80 Jace Johnson81 Blake Lansing85 Shane Story88 Chris Davis

Mascot: Wildcats

enough about Triplet. “Every game he grows. He’s a real threat. He sparks the offense. I’m definitely glad he’s on our side!” he laughed. In addition to Evans, Triplet, Gales, and Courville, Dotson cited Jake Myer and the offensive line. “Anytime you rush over 100 yards, the OL is doing a job,” he said. “They also gave Brett good protection.” The defense was outstanding,

Dotson said. “Brodie Browning had a party out there!” he said. Browning, a DE, ran wild against the Bears, at one point picking up a Catholic fumble and running it to the five-yard line. It was all record-ed on Cox’s Game of the Week. In addition to the loss of Hold-man, Lamonte Janeau is nursing a sprain, although it is not expected to keep him out of action Friday. Central, now 2-2, will host the St.

Amant Gators (3-1) Friday night. “St. Amant is a very good foot-ball team,” Dotson said. “It’s cer-tainly not going to be easy. Our big-gest challenge is the fact that we are such a young team. Coaches have a saying: You will lose one game for every sophomore you start. We’ve been starting five on offense. But they are really coming on. After the first four games, they are more like veterans. A lot more maturity and

experience than before the jambo-ree.” Coach Dotson reminded fans that Friday is Senior Night. Fans should come early to enjoy the ceremonies before game time. Coach Dotson said, “We really appreciate the support of the Wild-cat fans and this entire community for all they do for this team.” He said fans should wear Maroon this Friday against St. Amant.


BusinessDirectory

Monthly RatesPhone

261-5055

$47.50 monthly January-July $95 monthly August-December

Call 225-261-5055Central Area Business DirectoryHandyman

Handyman Father & SonsElectrical, Plumbing, Appliances,Painting, Fans, Fixtures, Faucets,Fix Most Anything. References.Quality work for God’s glory.

Call Tom 225-788-0266 Central area

Painting

Randy Falcon20 Years’ Experience

No Job Too Large or Small225-454-2961 (cell)

Appliance Repair

Mark’sAppliance Repair

Service to all major brandsShop Central First!

225-261-2270

Home Maintenance

Lloyd’s HomeMaintenance and Repair

No job too small225-936-7652

Lloyd’s HomeMaintenance and Repair

No job too small225-936-7652

Carpet Cleaning

BayouSteamCarpet, Upholstery,

Tile & Grout CleaningLocally owned and operated225-955-6955

Tree Service

Fully licensed and insuredFree estimate • See Our Ad

The Tree Men, LLCThe Tree Men, LLC

262-6092 • 791-3981

Hearing/Hearing Aids

ACL Hearing & Balance11424 Sullivan Road

Bldg. A, Ste. B-2

225-927-7011

Dirt Work

General Sand & Gravel Co.Limestone, Gravel, Mason Sand,

Clay, Top Soil, Riversilt,Crushed Concrete, Tractor Work

225-261-3953

Aerobics

❤Aerobics byRoxanne225-261-5539

Since 1983 • Good For Your ❤

Plumbing

WE’VE MOVED13366 Hooper Rd. • 225-262-1234

Across from Capital One

Florist

Flowers & Gifts for all Occasions!2660 O’Neal Lane • www.marinosflorist.com

225-751-4628Residential • Commercial

225-281-9296

Lawn CareBarber Shop

Central Barber ShopOld Fashion Barber Shop

High & Tight • Crew • Flat TopsAll Cuts $10 • Gene Lato, Owner

13366 Hooper Across from Capitol One225-335-1534

Credit Card Processing

Accept Credit Cards Now!or Lower Your Current Rates

Credit Cards • Debit CardsCheck Guarantee

Free Equipment 225-408-9311Card Payment Solutions of Central

www.WelcomeAllCards.com

Wind Shield Repair & ReplacementWe Come to You • 225-791-7440

Auto Glass

Butch Langlois Got 11 of 12 to Win ‘Pick 12’Sponsored by Oak Point Fresh Market

CENTRAL — Butch Langlois of 12721 Castle Hill Dr. was the winner of Week Five in the Oak Point Fresh Market Pick 12 Foot-ball Contest, according to results announced by Central City News on Monday. Langlois correctly predicted the outcome of 11 of the 12 games in the contest. Butch Langlois will receive a $50 gift certificate from Oak Point and a chance in an end-of-season drawing for a 55-inch widescreen color HDTV. Pick 12 Football Contest Entry Forms for Week Six (games of Sept. 30-Oct.2) appeared in the Oak Point ad on Page 12 of the Central City News for Thursday, Sept. 22. In order to participate in Week Six contest, bring those forms to Oak Point Fresh Market

by 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30. Pick 12 Football Contest Entry Forms for Week Seven (games of Oct. 7-9) can be found in Oak Point’s ad on Page 16 of the Thursday, Sept. 29 edition of the Central City News. In order to participate in Week Seven’s con-test, bring those forms to Oak Point Fresh Market by 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7. The following are the top per-forming contestants for Week Five in the Pick 12 competition. Standings will be updated in each week’s Central City News.

Pick 12 Football ContestResults for Week Four(Games of Sept. 23-25)

*WinnerButch Langlois* 11-1 .917

Charles Welsh 10-2 .833Clay Jarreau 10-2 .833Gregory Martinez 10-2 .833Lawrence Hebert 10-2 .833Daniel Newman 10-2 .833Winston Vass 10-2 .833Hayden Peairs 10-2 .833Angelle Fontenot 10-2 .833Clint Articta 9-3 .750Robert Wesley 9-3 .750Blake McCulley 9-3 .750Donald W. Kerr 9-3 .750Marilyn Rogers 9-3 .750Dan D. Davis 9-3 .750Charlotte Cohoon 9-3 .750Rob Mayeux 9-3 .750Ronnie Chauvin 9-3 .750Ronnie Perault 9-3 .750Troy Langlois 9-3 .750Ann Phistry 9-3 .750Jordan Lain 9-3 .750Don Scharwath 9-3 .750Marc McCulley 9-3 .750

Jesse Chemin 8-4 .667Katherine Wesley 8-4 .667James H. Carter, Jr. 8-4 .667Ted McCulley 8-4 .667Eugene Richard 8-4 .667Phil Harrell 8-4 .667Calvin Shirey 8-4 .667James Anderson 8-4 .667Connie Kerr 8-4 .667Dorothy Dean 8-4 .667Phil Garner 8-4 .667Phil Phistry, Jr. 8-4 .667Lynn Kuber 8-4 .667Derik Davis 8-4 .667Ryan Butters 8-4 .667Kayla Davis 8-4 .667David Davis 8-4 .667Mary Ann Reed 8-4 .667Diane Thompson 8-4 .667August Levest 8-4 .667Don Davis 8-4 .667Joyce McCulley 8-4 .667

Join Central City News on

Get Latest News Updates

RebelsFalltoBowlingGreen,TrinityNext

CENTRAL PRIVATE fell 46-22 to Bowling Green last Friday night at Rebel Field in Central. Pictured are (left to right) Kyle Blackburn (8), Lance Wicker (84), Mason Jordan (4), and Luke Fryoux (10). The Rebels take on Trinity Episcopal in Natchez Friday night.


Central High School WILDCATS

2011 Football ScheduleCentral beat East Feliciana 7-2 in the jamboreeAll Regular Season Games on Friday at 7 p.m.

Sept. 2 ISTROUMA W 43-0Record 1-0 Lamonte Janeau scored 3 TD’s for Wildcats

Sept. 9 St. Thomas More L 24-0Record 1-1 Central loses to No. 1 team in state

Sept. 16 WOODLAWN L 41-27 RB Gary Triplet kickoff return for 98-yard TDRecord 1-2 QB Brett Courville ran for 2 TD’s and passed for 1TD

Sept. 23 Catholic High W 34-19 QB Brett Courville ran for 1 TD and passed for 3 TD’sRecord 2-2 incl. 19 and 57 yards to Triplet and 67 yards to Gales

Sept. 30 ST. AMANT HOct. 7 ZACHARY* HOct. 14 WALKER* HOct. 21 Denham Springs* AOct. 28 Scotlandville* ANov. 4 Live Oak* A *District 4-5A games

Central High Wildcat FootballFollow the Wildcats Every Friday Through the Playoffs

Central High Wildcat FootballFollow the Wildcats Every Friday Through the Playoffs

Central High Wildcats’ defensive back Jesus Acosta

Phot

o by

Woo

dy Je

nkin

s

OrthOdOntists

14465 Wax RoadBaton Rouge, LA 70818

Stephen L. Sherman, D.D.S., M.S.David A. Balhoff, D.D.S.

Please call our officefor a complimentary exam

225.769.1276www.shermanbalhoff.com

Stay Tuned ForOctober Special!Hodges

Valarie

STATE REPRESENTATIVEDISTRICT 64

PROVEN. CONSERVATIVE. LEADERSHIP.VoteforLessTaxesandSmallerGovernment.


WWW.OAKPOINTMARKET.COMFOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!HOURS: 7 A.M. - 8 P.M.

14485 Greenwell Springs Rd. Greenwell Springs, La 70739225-261-1095

35045 Louisiana Highway 16Watson, LA 70786

225-243-5309

We Accept:

EBT & WIC

SALE PRICES VALID: SEPT. 28 - OCT. 4, 2011

NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS • QUANTITY RIGHTS RESERVED • NONE SOLD TO DEALERS • NOT ALL ADVERTISED ITEMS AVAILABLE AT THIS LOCATION • PLEASE RECYCLE

Sanderson FarmsWHOLE FRYERS

69¢LB.

3 lb. Bag U.S. #1YELLOW ONIONS

99¢

12 oz. BagCOMMUNITYCOFFEE

2/$9

2 lb. Sweet CrispWELCH’S WHITE SEEDLESS GRAPES

$2.99

Family Pack! (5 lb. or more) 80% LeanGROUND CHUCK

$2.49

SirloinPORK CHOPS

$1.49

64 oz.SHURFRESHORANGE JUICE

$1.79

128 oz. LOU ANAVEGETABLE OIL

$6.99

12 Double Rolls Charmin Basic Bath Tissue or 8 Regular Prints RollsBOUNTY BASIC TOWELS

2/$10

10 lb. BagSHURFINESUGAR

$4.99

lb.

lb.

YOUR TAILGATING

HEADQUARTERS

FOR THE BIG GAME!

®

FORFORFORFOR

C O M M U N I T YC O M M U N I T YC O M M U N I T Y

Pick 12 Football ContestPick 12 and Bring to Oak Point by 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7

Name ___________________________ Address _______________________________Phone ________________ Email _____________________________ Deadline 10/07/11

q Central q Catholic q Northeast q LSU q Oklahoma q Auburnq Zachary q Woodlawn q Redemptorist q Florida q Texas q Arkansasq DSHS q CPS q Parkview q McNeese q Southern q New Orleansq Scotlandville q Oak Forest q E. Feliciana q Texas State q Prairie View q Carolina OAK POINT FRESH MARKET • Game Day HQ • Bring your entry and shop for Game Day!

$50 Weekly winnergets gift certificate 55” Widescreen HDTV

Weekly winners in drawing for Grand PrizeWeekly winners announced on Facebook by 6 p.m. Monday at “Central City News” and listed in Central City News • For copy of rules, email [email protected] • Ties decided by drawings

Bring to Oak Point by 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7

central city news

Documents