The Watchman 03-18-2026 by The Advocate

West Feliciana land-use plan defeated

BY JAMES MINTON Contributing writer

Leila Pitchford

AROUND THE FELICIANAS

Shop the market

St. Francisville Farmers Market is available on Thursdays, including March 19 and March 25 at 9961 Wilcox Street. The next St. Francisville Community Market will be March 28 at the same address. Spring vegetables should be available in a few weeks.

On April 24-26, several vendors will set up at the Tunica Hills Yard Sale Trail.

Autism awareness in Clinton

East Feliciana Public Schools invites the community to participate in the second annual Autism Awareness Walk at 5p.m., April 2, beginning at East Feliciana Middle School, 10410 Plank Road, Clinton.

In addition to a 2K walk, the event will feature music, a photo area and giveaways. Complimentary registration is required at bit.ly/efautismwalk. For information, contact the East Feliciana Public Schools Exceptional Student Services Department at (225) 683-8582.

Adopt a pet in St. Francisville

St. Francisville Tractor Supply, 7327 U.S. 61, is inviting customers to attend a Pet Adoption Event from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m March 21. The event will include a bake sale.

“As an active advocate and supporter of pet rescue and adoption, Tractor Supply strives to inform our customers of the pet adoption process by providing a safe and comfortable space for placing adorable animals in welcoming homes,” said Kevin Shifﬂett, manager of the St. Francisville store.

“Through this and other yearround adoption events, our goal at St Francisville store is to connect adoptable pets with interested owners.”

The pet adoption event for Happy Tails Rescue is open to the public and friendly, leashed pets.

During the event, community partners will be on hand with dogs and cats looking for homes.

Show your talent in East Feliciana

East Feliciana’s Got Talent, the March 28 fundraiser/festival/talent show for the Council on Aging, continues to develop The contact persons about the second audition date, March 21, or for vendor info or for the presale rafﬂes tickets are Clover Stephenson at (225) 2432140 and Caroline Harrell at (225) 719-1912. Several items will be rafﬂed including a painting of magnolias.

Money raised by the event will go toward the funding for seniors on the waiting list for home meal delivery

The March 28 event at the Jackson site for the COA, 3699 La. 10, Jackson, will include a festival outside with vendors selling arts, crafts and such from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. along with Cajun music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. inside, the talent contest with refreshments will beneﬁt the Council on Aging. Admission will be a $20 donation.

A three-member majority killed a proposed zoning map before the West Feliciana Parish Council at its March 9 meeting, the fourth time in three years that a new plan for land use went down to defeat.

The three were backed by a crowd opposed to the plan that would have completed a land development code and zoning regulations approved in 2023.

“The room looks like an anthill that’s been kicked,” one speaker remarked.

The parish is operating under an older zoning map that already was in effect in 2023.

Council member Justin Metz proposed the latest map to clear

up the lingering confusion.

But before a public hearing opened, Metz attempted to defer the issue until the Planning and Zoning Commission could make a recommendation.

But, after opponents spoke for about 40 minutes, Metz and Tab Ballard were outvoted by John Thompson, Jerry Tanner and Dwight Pate on the motion to send the map to the Planning and Zoning panel.

Thompson, Tanner and Pate then prevailed on a motion to kill the proposal outright.

The principal complaints from the 13 residents who spoke during a public hearing is that the zoning classiﬁcations and land development code hurt residents with small tracts of land who would like

to divide it among their children.

“Everybody is not able to pay for two acres of land and put a house on it,” Curtis Wilson told the council.

Former Parish Manager Ambrose Sims said the zoning map should have been presented with the land development ordinance as a single package and questioned whether council members have read it thoroughly

Regarding the property restrictions, Sims said he would use the “G-word.”

“Gentriﬁcation. That’s what it’s all about,” he said.

Eric Cavalier said some people can afford 3 to 5 acres for a residence but others can’t. “Let’s get it affordable,” he said.

Later in the meeting, Ballard in-

Royal Street.

BY JAMES MINTON Contributing writer

The town of St. Francisville is moving to transfer control of a local landmark to a nonproﬁt foundation in order to cut costs.

The Board of Aldermen agreed March 10 to give Mayor Andy D’Aquilla the authority to enter into an agreement to allow the St. Francisville Area Foundation to manage the old Market Hall on Royal Street. Built in 1819, the building originally had an open-air market area with a magistrate’s ofﬁce upstairs. The building was constructed to allow farm wagons to pass through it, but was later closed and used for a variety of purposes, including the town hall.

the board authorized D’Aquilla to apply to the state Bond Commission for approval to issue $425,000 in sales tax revenue bonds to pay for a new ﬁre truck, although the mayor said the town may pay for it instead with funds in a state-operated savings

troduced an ordinance that he said would establish a process for landowners to get variances that would allow them to give smaller tracts to their children. A hearing is set for the April 13 meeting.

On another matter, the council decided that Hospital Board member Olton Scott is eligible to serve another term on the board and reappointed him. The home-rule charter sets term limits for boards and commissions, but the council decided, in Scott’s case, that a partial term does not count against the limit.

After meeting behind closed doors, the council voted to appeal a district court ruling that a prior administration violated its zoning ordinance in rezoning land on U.S. 61 north of St. Francisville.

Preparing for the ‘big dance’ through history

BY FRANCES Y. SPENCER Contributing writer

They dance, they inform and they entertain, but before the dancers don historically accurate attire, they practice.

The Lagniappe Historic Dance & Pastime Society puts in the work and research that brings foregone eras to life. Or ganizer and dance instr uc tor Roxanne Struppeck said the group performs 18th- and 19th-century routines wearing clothing unique to the periods.

“We share our love of history and dancing at various living history events around Baton Rouge, St. Francisville, Destrehan and New Orleans,” she said. There are several big dances on the group’s agenda. They will take part in the Port Hudson Civil War reenactment on Saturday, March 28, and teach dance at the Heritage Day at Destrehan Plantation on Friday, April 10.

“One of our favorite places to dance is the Audubon Historic Site/Oakley Plantation,” Struppeck said “Their Revolutionary war event is Saturday April 25. This year is particularly special since it is the 250th anniversary of America.” The group learns historic dance Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Pride-Chaneyville branch of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library The class is taught by Struppeck and is free and open to the public.

ä Dance practice photos. PAGE 4G

Inmate dies at East Feliciana Parish prison, foul play not suspected, officials say

BY ELLYN COUVILLION Staff writer

An inmate of the East Feliciana Parish prison found unresponsive in his singleman cell shortly before 7 a.m Friday was pronounced dead by the coroner On Monday the Sheriff’s Ofﬁce identified the inmate as Raymond Gerard Dunn, 45, of Jackson. Deputies and EMS took life-saving measures when Dunn was found, but failed to revive him, according to the East Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Ofﬁce. An investigation into his death, which will include an autopsy has begun.

“Based upon preliminary investigative ﬁndings, foul play is not suspected,” the Sheriff’s Ofﬁce said.

PHOTO BY FRANCES Y. SPENCER Roxanne Struppeck leads a practice session of the Lagniappe Historic Dance & Pastime Society on Feb 26.

Community news report

Alva Franklin

Alva Franklin, teacher at East Feliciana Middle School, earned recognition as East Feliciana Public Schools’ February Employee of the Month at the February meeting of the East Feliciana Parish School Board. Franklin is dedicated to the overall growth of every individual at EFMS, including students and staff, according to a news release. She is a champion for maximizing every instructional minute so that students can achieve their potential and

goals, and she fosters positive and productive relationships with students and staff alike.

“Building an exceptional organization is one of the priorities of Excellence, Every Day, our district’s five-year strategic plan,” said Superintendent Keisha L. Netterville. “We are proud to recognize Alva Franklin for her commitment to excellence and her positive contributions to our students, our teachers and staff, and our families.”

Catch up on Feliciana baseball, softball action

BY RICHARD MEEK

Contributing writer

The baseball and softball ﬁelds are busy this time of year. Catch up on Feliciana teams.

Baseball

East Feliciana

East Feliciana baseball is off to a slow start, having lost eight of its ﬁrst 13 games, with four wins and one tie.

The Tigers are 0-2 in District 8-2A, coming off consecutive 12-0 losses to district rival Slaughter Charter on March 10 and March 12. The March 10 loss snapped East Feliciana’s three-game winning streak

On March 10, Slaughter scored seven runs in the first inning, one each in the second and third innings, and three in the fourth to end the game on the 10-run rule

Two days later, Slaughter scored four runs in the second and ﬁve in the third. The Knights ended the game on the 10-run rule with two runs in the ﬁfth inning after adding a run in the fourth inning

Despite the slow start, East Feliciana’s Kameron Wilson has been impressive, leading the team with a .552 batting average and a .618 on base percentage He also has 15 stolen bases.

John Goudeau is hitting 433 and Khanye Ferguson .429.

Ke’Marion Matthews and Alden Johnson have each stolen 18 bases for the Tigers.

Goudeau also has a team-high six RBIs.

East Feliciana plays at Port Allen on March 19 and at Northeast on March 24. Slaughter Charter

Buoyed by the consecutive wins over

East Feliciana, the Knights have won ﬁve of their past six games. Slaughter has also won ﬁve games by six runs or more, including another 12-run margin of victory against North Iberville on March 7.

The Knights also defeated North Iberville 20-2 on March 2.

Slaughter is scheduled to host False River on March 18.

West Feliciana

West Feliciana defeated Central Lafourche 3-2 on March 14 to climb one game above .500 with a 10-9 record.

West Feliciana hosts Woodlawn on March 18, and is on the road at St. Michael on March 19 and at Zachary on March 20.

Silliman Institute

The Wildcats reeled off seven consecutive seasons to start the season before losing two in a row to Brookhaven and Lawrence County Silliman 7-2, fell to Brookhaven 7-5 on March 10. Brookhaven scored all seven runs in the second inning. The Wildcats responded with four runs in the fourth and one in the fifth of the six inning game. Lawrence County scored two runs in the first inning and added single tallies in the third and fifth innings in the Cougars win against Silliman on March 6.

Silliman plays Copiah Academy on March 31.

West Feliciana softball

West Feliciana is 3-9 (2-1) and is coming off of a 12-2 loss to South Beauregard on March 14.

The Saints are scheduled to host McKinley on March 19 and play at Bunkie on March 23.

THE ST FRANCISVILLE

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Watchman

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OFFICE: (225) 388-0215 CELL: (225) 603-1998

COMMUNITY NEWS REPORTER Leila Pitchford extra@theadvocate.com (225) 388-0731

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Susan Louque named teacher of the month in East Feliciana

Community news report

Susan Louque, teacher at East Feliciana Enrichment Academy, earned recognition as East Feliciana Public Schools’ March Employee of the Month at the March meeting of the East Feliciana Parish School Board. Louque exempliﬁes dedication to her students, according to a news release. Teaching grades sixth through 12th (and occasionally fourth and ﬁfth grade), she maintains consistent class instruction regardless of whether she is teaching

Susan Louque

one student or 25.

Her practices align with the Louisiana Educator Rubric and promote student engagement, according to the release.

Her school said, “Her

commitment to the district’s mission of Excellence, Every Day along with her kindness and collaborative spirit, make this recognition well-deserved.”

“Building an exceptional organization is one of the priorities of Excellence, Every Day, our district’s ﬁveyear strategic plan,” said Superintendent Keisha L Netterville. “We are proud to recognize Susan Louque for her commitment to excellence and her positive contributions to our students, our teachers and staff, and our families.”

EAST AND WEST FELICIANA COUNCIL ON AGING

The schedules for West and East Feliciana Council on Aging facilities are as follows:

WEST FELICIANA

n 12292 Jackson Road, St. Francisville, (225) 635-6719

n Start time for all activities is 10 a.m. FIRST AND THIRD MONDAY: Line dance

FOURTH MONDAY: Religious service

TUESDAYS: Nutrition education

WEDNESDAYS: Exercise/yoga

THURSDAYS: Bible study

FRIDAYS: Bingo/movie/excursion

n All people 60 and older in West Feliciana Parish are invited to join.

n For transportation to the center or questions, call (225) 635-6719.

EAST FELICIANA n 11102 Bank St., Clinton n 3699 La. 10, Jackson

Wednesday, March 18

SEWING/QUILTING CLASS: 10 a.m.

DEVOTIONAL 11:15 a.m. LUNCH: 11:30 a.m. ART CLASS: noon

Thursday, March 19 BINGO: 10:30 a.m. LUNCH: 11:30 a.m. Friday, March 20 LINE DANCING

WEST FELICIANA PARISH BOOKINGS

The following people were booked into the West Feliciana Parish Detention Center between March 2-8:

MARCH 2

MCNEELY, JOSEPH: 29; Cardinal, Angola; contraband taking to/from penal institution

MARCH 3

WINFIELD, KENNETH: 19; 7900 block of Jones Vaughn Creek Road; St. Francisville; failure to appear SILAS, LINDSEY: 60; 6800 block

of W. Leverne St., New Orleans; contraband taking to/ from penal institution

MARCH 5

FORD, BENDARIUS: 25; 7100 block of Bobwhite Drive; St. Francisville; aggravated assault with a ﬁrearm, obstruction public passages, simple robbery, illegal use of weapons — aggravated assault, attempt

STOKES, DANIEL: 62; 6000 block of La. 67; Slaughter; possession — Schedule II

narcotics, probation violation, failure to appear, issuance of arrest warrant

MARCH 6

MANSELL, JACOB: 43; 6800 block of Barrow Hill Drive; St Francisville, sexual battery second-degree rape

MARCH 7

HONEYCUTT, TYLER: 24; 200 block of Balderas Drive; Deridder; driving under the inﬂuence, improper lane usage, possession Schedule IV

Leila Pitchford AROUND THE FELICIANAS

Shop the market

St. Francisville Farmers Market is available on Thursdays, including March 19 and March 25 at 9961 Wilcox Street. The next St. Francisville Community

Market will be March 28 at the same address. Spring vegetables should be available in a few weeks.

On April 24-26, several vendors will set up at the Tunica Hills Yard Sale Trail.

Autism awareness in Clinton

East Feliciana Public Schools invites the community to participate in the second annual Autism Awareness Walk at 5p.m., April 2, beginning at East Feliciana Middle School, 10410 Plank Road, Clinton.

Adopt a pet in St. Francisville St. Francisville Tractor Supply, 7327 U.S. 61, is inviting customers to attend a Pet Adoption Event from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m March 21. The event will include a bake sale.

“Through this and other yearround adoption events, our goal at St Francisville store is to connect adoptable pets with interested owners.”

The pet adoption event for Happy Tails Rescue is open to the public and friendly, leashed pets.

During the event, community partners will be on hand with dogs and cats looking for homes.

Show your talent in East Feliciana

Several items will be rafﬂed including a painting of magnolias.

Money raised by the event will go toward the funding for seniors on the waiting list for home meal delivery

From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. inside, the talent contest with refreshments will beneﬁt the Council on Aging. Admission will be a $20 donation.

See AROUND, page 3G

THE ST. FRANCISVILLE

DEMOCRAT

West Feliciana land-use plan defeated

BY JAMES MINTON Contributing writer

A three-member majority killed a proposed zoning map before the West Feliciana Parish Council at its March 9 meeting, the fourth time in three years that a new plan for land use went down to defeat.

The three were backed by a crowd opposed to the plan that would have completed a land development code and zoning regulations approved in 2023.

“The room looks like an anthill that’s been kicked,” one speaker remarked.

The parish is operating under an older zoning map that already was in effect in 2023.

Council member Justin Metz proposed the latest map to clear

up the lingering confusion.

But before a public hearing opened, Metz attempted to defer the issue until the Planning and Zoning Commission could make a recommendation.

But, after opponents spoke for about 40 minutes, Metz and Tab Ballard were outvoted by John Thompson, Jerry Tanner and Dwight Pate on the motion to send the map to the Planning and Zoning panel.

Thompson, Tanner and Pate then prevailed on a motion to kill the proposal outright.

The principal complaints from the 13 residents who spoke during a public hearing is that the zoning classiﬁcations and land development code hurt residents with small tracts of land who would like

to divide it among their children.

“Everybody is not able to pay for two acres of land and put a house on it,” Curtis Wilson told the council.

Regarding the property restrictions, Sims said he would use the “G-word.” “Gentriﬁcation. That’s what it’s all about,” he said.

Eric Cavalier said some people can afford 3 to 5 acres for a residence but others can’t. “Let’s get it affordable,” he said.

Later in the meeting, Ballard in-

troduced an ordinance that he said would establish a process for landowners to get variances that would allow them to give smaller tracts to their children. A hearing is set for the April 13 meeting.

After meeting behind closed doors, the council voted to appeal a district court ruling that a prior administration violated its zoning ordinance in rezoning land on U.S. 61 north of St. Francisville.

Preparing for the

‘big dance’ through history

BY FRANCES Y. SPENCER Contributing writer

They dance, they inform and they entertain, but before the dancers don historically accurate attire, they practice.

The Lagniappe Historic Dance & Pastime Society puts in the work and research that brings foregone eras to life. Or ganizer and dance instr uc tor

Roxanne

Struppeck said the group performs 18th- and 19th-century routines wearing clothing unique to the periods.

The group learns historic dance Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Pride-Chaneyville branch of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library The class is taught by Struppeck and is free and open to the public.

ä Dance practice photos. PAGE 4G

BY JAMES MINTON Contributing writer

The town of St. Francisville is moving to transfer control of a local landmark to a nonproﬁt foundation in order to cut costs.

liability insurance and maintain the

He said leasing the building would help the town in lowering its costs for insurance, noting that the town also recently spent $250,000 to repair the building’s sewer system. The building will continue to be used for public purposes, and the foundation may charge fees for renting the facility On another matter, the board authorized D’Aquilla to apply to the state Bond Commission for approval to issue $425,000 in sales tax revenue bonds to pay for a new ﬁre truck, although the mayor said the town may pay for it

Inmate dies at East Feliciana Parish prison, foul play not suspected, officials say

BY ELLYN COUVILLION Staff writer

“Based upon preliminary investigative ﬁndings, foul play is not suspected,” the Sheriff’s Ofﬁce said.

STAFF FILE PHOTO BY ROBIN MILLER

PHOTO BY FRANCES Y. SPENCER Roxanne Struppeck leads a practice session of the Lagniappe Historic Dance & Pastime Society on Feb 26.

Board recognizes Alva Franklin’s work

Community news report

Alva Franklin

goals, and she fosters positive and productive relationships with students and staff alike.

Catch up on Feliciana baseball, softball action

BY RICHARD MEEK

Contributing writer

The baseball and softball ﬁelds are busy this time of year. Catch up on Feliciana teams.

Baseball

East Feliciana

East Feliciana baseball is off to a slow start, having lost eight of its ﬁrst 13 games, with four wins and one tie.

On March 10, Slaughter scored seven runs in the first inning, one each in the second and third innings, and three in the fourth to end the game on the 10-run rule

Despite the slow start, East Feliciana’s Kameron Wilson has been impressive, leading the team with a .552 batting average and a .618 on base percentage He also has 15 stolen bases.

John Goudeau is hitting 433 and Khanye Ferguson .429.

Ke’Marion Matthews and Alden Johnson have each stolen 18 bases for the Tigers.

Goudeau also has a team-high six RBIs.

East Feliciana plays at Port Allen on March 19 and at Northeast on March 24.

Slaughter Charter

Buoyed by the consecutive wins over

The Knights also defeated North Iberville 20-2 on March 2.

Slaughter is scheduled to host False River on March 18.

West Feliciana

West Feliciana defeated Central Lafourche 3-2 on March 14 to climb one game above .500 with a 10-9 record.

West Feliciana hosts Woodlawn on March 18, and is on the road at St. Michael on March 19 and at Zachary on March 20.

Silliman Institute

Silliman plays Copiah Academy on March 31.

West Feliciana softball

West Feliciana is 3-9 (2-1) and is coming off of a 12-2 loss to South Beauregard on March 14.

The Saints are scheduled to host McKinley on March 19 and play at Bunkie on March 23.

THE ST FRANCISVILLE

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THE ST FRANCISVILLE DEMOCRAT P.O. Drawer 1876 St Francisville LA 70775 (225) 388-0215

PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY USPS NO 668-520 Online at www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/communities/west_feliciana/

EDITOR

Darlene T. Denstorff extra@theadvocate.com

OFFICE: (225) 388-0215 CELL: (225) 603-1998

COMMUNITY NEWS REPORTER Leila Pitchford extra@theadvocate.com (225) 388-0731

DEATH NOTICES CALL: (225) 388-0289

EMAIL: obits@ theadvocate.com

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS CALL: (225) 388-0738 EMAIL: nuptials@ theadvocate.com

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Susan Louque named teacher of the month in East Feliciana

Community news report

Susan Louque, teacher at East Feliciana Enrichment Academy, earned recognition as East Feliciana Public Schools’ March Employee of the Month at the March meeting of the East Feliciana Parish School Board. Louque exempliﬁes dedication to her students, according to a news release Teaching grades sixth through 12th (and occasionally fourth and ﬁfth grade), she maintains consistent class instruction regardless of whether she is teaching

Susan Louque

one student or 25.

Her practices align with the Louisiana Educator Rubric and promote student engagement, according to the release. Her school said, “Her

commitment to the district’s mission of Excellence, Every Day along with her kindness and collaborative spirit, make this recognition well-deserved.”

EAST AND WEST FELICIANA COUNCIL ON AGING

The schedules for West and East Feliciana Council on Aging facilities are as follows:

WEST FELICIANA

n 12292 Jackson Road, St. Francisville, (225) 635-6719

n Start time for all activities is 10 a.m. FIRST AND THIRD MONDAY: Line dance

FOURTH MONDAY: Religious service

TUESDAYS: Nutrition education

WEDNESDAYS: Exercise/yoga

THURSDAYS: Bible study

FRIDAYS: Bingo/movie/excursion n All people 60 and older in

CLASS: 10 a.m.

DEVOTIONAL 11:15 a.m. LUNCH: 11:30 a.m. ART CLASS: noon

Thursday, March 19

BINGO: 10:30 a.m. LUNCH: 11:30 a.m.

Friday, March 20

WEST FELICIANA PARISH BOOKINGS

The following people were booked into the West Feliciana Parish Detention Center between March 2-8:

MARCH 2

MCNEELY, JOSEPH: 29; Cardinal, Angola; contraband taking to/from penal institution

MARCH 3

WINFIELD, KENNETH: 19; 7900 block of Jones Vaughn Creek Road; St. Francisville; failure to appear SILAS, LINDSEY: 60; 6800 block

of W. Leverne St., New Orleans; contraband taking to/ from penal institution

MARCH 5

STOKES, DANIEL: 62; 6000 block of La. 67; Slaughter; possession — Schedule II

narcotics, probation violation, failure to appear, issuance of arrest warrant

MARCH 6

MANSELL, JACOB: 43; 6800 block of Barrow Hill Drive; St Francisville, sexual battery second-degree rape

MARCH 7

HONEYCUTT, TYLER: 24; 200 block of Balderas Drive; Deridder; driving under the inﬂuence, improper lane usage, possession Schedule IV

Friends of Oakley announces Spring Fête fundraiser

Community news report

The Friends of Oakley will host a Spring Fête from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. April 11 at Audubon State Historic Site

This fundraising event will support the implementation of the Master Plan to preserve the historic sites.

The afternoon will have live music by multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter and historian James Linden Hogg, whose performances blend musical artistry with storytelling.

The event will feature a buffet dinner served on the historic grounds, live demonstrations of open hearth cooking and blacksmithing, and guided tours of the ﬁrst ﬂoor of the historic Oakley House.

A highlight of the evening will be the public announcement of the Master Plan and grant-funded improve-

AROUND

Continued from page 1G

Show your car in April

ments. The newly completed Joseph Mason Trail will be open for guests to walk and explore during the event. This new trail honors the young artist who accompanied John James Audubon during his time at Oakley Plantation.

The Master Plan encompasses critical preservation work including ongoing maintenance of the historic house and gardens, archaeological studies, grounds care and other essential projects to ensure the site remains viable for future generations.

“This event is about more than celebrating spring, it’s about investing in the future of Audubon State Historic Site,” said Ann Reiley Jones, president of the Friends of Oakley “We’re excited to share our vision for the Master Plan and invite the community to be part of preserving this treasured piece

Spring Creek Car Show will be from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., April 18, at 7188 U.S 61, St. Francisville. It will feature cars, a rafﬂe, shopping, games and activities. Pick up a registration form at Madewell Nutrition or The Chill Mill both located in Spring Creek Shopping Center, or text or call (225) 5356601.

Stroll area gardens

Join the St. Francisville Garden Stroll on May 9. Spend a morning touring private gardens, then hear the speaker series and have an optional lunch at the St. Francisville Inn.

Get your tickets at https://tinyurl. com/7bc68mdu

Save the date

The Day the War Stopped will be June 13 in St. Francisville.

Support WFHS athletics with golf

The West Feliciana High Royal Blue Club will hold its Spring Swing golf scramble on May 3 at Beaver Creek Golf Club 1100 E.

nage, logo on all materials, news release recognition, four social

of Louisiana history.”

Audubon State Historic Site in St. Francisville is where John James Audubon lived and worked in 1821, creating many of his famous bird illustrations. The 100-

Plains-Port Hudson Road, Zachary

Contact Shelley Genre at (225) 6354561or genres2wfpsb.org for information.

West Feliciana trivia coming

The West Feliciana Education Foundation is hosting “Whadda Ya Know, West Fel?” at Bayou Sara Brewing to fund grants and scholarships for area schools on March 26.

Between rounds, a full taco and slider

bar will be available. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Trivia starts at 7 p.m.

Adult tickets are $50 and includes the buffet and two beer tokens for ages 21+.

Tickets are $45 for those who register by March 24. Youth tickets are $15 for ages 12 and under

Inmate art for sale

An arts and crafts show will be from 9 a.m to 2 p.m. March 21 at Dixon Correctional Institute, 5568 La. 68, Jackson. Entry is $5, ages 6 and under are free. All transactions are cash.

Inmate-made items will include paintings, woodworking, furniture, jewelry, leatherwork and more. A pet adoption event will be going on as well.

Easter Egg hunt slated

The Rosedown Easter Egg Hunt starts at 2 p.m., March 28.

acre park preserves the historic Oakley House and surrounding grounds, offering visitors a glimpse into early 19th-century plantation life and natural history

The Friends of Oakley is

seeking business and community sponsors to support the Spring Fête and the Master Plan. Sponsorship levels include: n Live Oak Level ($5,000): Eight tickets, premium sig-

Bring a basket for the hunt. Refreshments are provided, and 19th-century games will follow the hunt. Arrive 20 minutes early to check in.

Garden admission fees apply Tunica Music Festival scheduled

The 10th annual Tunica Music Festival will be from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. March 28 in

Parker Park, in the amphitheater across the street on Chris and Cherie Fry’s property and in Bayou Sara Brewing in St. Francisville. The event is free to attendees. Food vendors will be available. It will feature 30 bands on three stages. Bring an instrument and join some jam sessions. Chairs, blankets and coolers are allowed. Visit www.instagram.com/p/DVOQyzUEQIi for the band schedule.

Yard Sale Trail returns

The Tunica Hills Yard Sale Trail is from 8 a.m. April 24 to 4 p.m. April 26. Deadline for signing up is April 1.

The trail for the multifamily progressive yard sale will follow Angola Road, Old Tunica Road and the Greenwood area. A Facebook group is available at www.facebook.com/groups/832172577337930 to see details as they are posted.

Art and music event set for April

From 4 to 8 p.m. April 25, Clinton is

Home will host An Evening of Art and Music on St. Helena Street and surrounding area. Artists and vendors (ages 18 & older) are invited to be part of this Art & Wine Walk. Enter the Featured Artist Contest for a chance to have your artwork showcased in next year’s promotions and/or apply to be a vendor for $25 vendor Artwork and applications can be dropped off in person at The Green Door at H Mercantile. Email clintonishome@gmail.com for a pdf application form. Deadline to apply is April 18.

Annual reenactment coming

The Siege of Port Hudson Battle Reenactment is March 28-29 at the state historic site, 236 U.S. 61, Jackson. It starts at 2 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 p.m. Sunday Gates open at 9 a.m. Concessions and sutlers/vendors will be on-site. Living history and weapons demonstrations will be throughout the day Reenactor camps will be on tour Admission is $6 adults, $4 seniors 62 and above, $3 active-duty military and free for children under 6. Call (225) 654-3775 for information. Email Leila Pitchford at lpitchford@ theadvocate.com.

PROVIDED PHOTO BY TIM MUELLER

West Feliciana Parish is home to the Oakley House, the centerpiece of the Audubon State Historic Site, where legendary artist and naturalist John James Audubon gathered birds, flora and fauna for his ‘Birds of America’ folio while tutoring young Eliza Pirrie.

Dancers Rachel Struppeck, left, and Sarah Robertson share a light moment during a break from a practice session.

Dancers, foreground from left Rachel Struppeck, Sarah Robertson, and Jaynie Moffett, are flanked by siblings Naomi Rossman and Jacob Rossman during a practice session of the Lagniappe Historic Dance & Pastime Society

PHOTO BY FRANCES Y. SPENCER

Members of the Lagniappe Historic Dance & Pastime Society meet at the Pride-Chaneyville library Feb 26. They are, from left, Patricia Ladut, Naomi Rossman, Johnny Moffett, Sarah Robertson, Roxanne Struppeck, Jacob Rossman and Naomi Rossman.

DEMCO recognizes essay contest finalists

Community news report

On March 3, 11 high school juniors competed as ﬁnalists in the 49th annual DEMCO essay contest during a banquet hosted by DEMCO.

Each student received a $500 scholarship in recognition of their achievement, and six students were awarded the grand prize trip to attend the NRECA Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., in the summer Students from across DEMCO’s seven-parish service area submitted essays for this year’s compe-

tition. Following an independent judging process, 11 finalists advanced to compete at the annual banquet where they were joined by parents, teachers, school administrators, DEMCO employees and board members Contest winners are Anya Riley and Lee McMillan, both of West Feliciana High; Peyton Lewis, of Zachary High; and Anna Bordelon, Brock Rispone, and Liliana Aguilera, all of Central High. Other finalists recognized are Charisma Jones, of Zachary High; Kendyl Carpenter, of Live Oak

High; Aubrey Troullier and Lida Stallone, both of West Feliciana High; and Brooke Green, of Central High.

As part of the competition, ﬁnalists were tested on their knowledge of rural electrification history and DEMCO facts. They each delivered an oral presentation of their written essay and were scored on clarity of speech, poise, eye contact and overall conﬁdence.

“Each year, we are encouraged by the thoughtful ideas shared by these students,” said Randy Pierce, chief executive ofﬁcer and

general manager of DEMCO “It’s encouraging to see young people thinking deeply about their communities, and we are proud to provide opportunities like this to support their growth.”

The six winning students will serve as DEMCO student delegates at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. During the trip, students will join other high school students from electric co-ops across the country to learn about electric cooperatives, American history and the U.S. government.

Participants visit the U.S. Capitol, U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Supreme Court, National Archives, Arlington National Cemetery, and other historically signiﬁcant sites.

DEMCO pioneered Louisiana’s participation in the Rural Electric Youth Tour in 1978, sending the ﬁrst students from Louisiana to Washington, D.C. The Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives coordinates and chaperones the annual Youth Tour trip for students sponsored by Louisiana electric cooperatives.

Some East Feliciana residents lose power just

water restored

BY CHARLES LUSSIER Staff writer

Four days after it went out, partial water service finally returned Thursday afternoon to some East Feliciana Parish residents, but more bad weather left some of those same folks without power.

Workers with Waterworks District 7, which serves parish residents along La. 960 and in surrounding areas, repaired the leak Wednesday night by replacing a valve that quit working after a lightning strike early March 8 during heavy rains over the weekend.

By late Thursday morning, they were able to start repressurizing water lines throughout the water district, restoring some water service, said Darryl Buhler, director of the parish’s office of homeland security and emergency preparedness.

“We’re still under a boil advisory but we got enough water where you can ﬂush commodes and things like that,” Buhler said.

A ﬁnal repair of a second, but smaller water leak was scheduled to take place Friday, which, once complete, should restore residents to normal water service.

The multi-day water outage prompted a relief effort on Wednesday that included a tanker truck that delivered non-potable water and additional trailers full of drinking water provided by the United Cajun Navy Water problems were compounded early Thursday as many of these same residents lost their power thanks to renewed bad weather By late Thursday afternoon, more than 700 residents, or 7% of East Feliciana Parish households, remained without power

Buhler said he was present during the water line repair Wednesday night but didn’t get much sleep.

“I was out at 3 a.m. this morning cutting trees that had fallen across the road, making sure the (school) buses could get through,” he said.

Email Charles Lussier at clussier@theadvocate. com.

West Feliciana expands health care access with center

Community news report

West Feliciana Hospital celebrated the grand opening of West Feliciana Specialty and Urgent Care with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house Jan. 29.

The event was attended by West Feliciana Hospital staff, the Board of Commissioners, and guests who gathered to commemorate the addition to the community’s health care landscape.

The newly opened facility enhances the comprehensive health care system in the region by offering the convenience of walkin, no-appointment-necessary visits, according to a news release. This approach bridges the gap between traditional clinic appointments and emergency room care, ensuring that patients receive timely and cost-effective health care without disrupting their daily routines.

This service is especially beneﬁcial during evenings and weekends when primary care physicians may not be available. West Feliciana Specialty & Urgent Care treats minor health care issues such as fever, cough, sore throat, minor lacerations, sprains/strains/breaks, vomiting/diarrhea, eye/ear complaints, and more, according to the release.

If patients are experiencing severe health care problems or life-threatening conditions the West Feliciana Hospital Emergency Room is available.

In addition to improving health care access, the facility serves as a catalyst for

The mural was

a landmark in St. Francisville

local economic growth generating new employment opportunities and drawing skilled health care professionals to the area, according to the release.

The facility also supports the tourism industry by assuring visitors high-quality health care access during their stay, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.

Painted by artist J. Leanard, the mural captures the essence of Ricky’s Audubon Lounge, celebrating its history and cultural signiﬁcance.

To make an Urgent Care appointment or for more information, call (225) 635-0028 or walk in at 6831 U.S. 61.

A feature of the new facility is its homage to the past. Standing on the historical site of Ricky’s Audubon Lounge, a landmark in St. Francisville, the facility preserves a piece of local history through a mural displayed prominently in its main hallway

The 2026 DEMO essay contest finalists are, from left, back row, Kendyl Carpenter, Brooke Green, Brock Rispone, Lee McMillan and Anya Riley; and front row, Aubrey Troullier, Peyton Lewis, Anna Bordelon, Liliana Aguilera, Charisma Jones and Lida Stallone.

PROVIDED PHOTOS BY TERESA ALVAREZ

2026 DEMCO essay contest winners are, from left, Brock Rispone, Lilliana Aguilera, Anna Bordelon, Lee McMillan, Anya Riley and Peyton Lewis.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Ricky’s Mural inside the new West Feliciana Specialty and Urgent Care.

preserved from the courtyard at Ricky’s Audubon Lounge,

PROVIDED PHOTO

On Jan. 29, Misty Metz, West Feliciana Hospital, marketing; Lee Chastant, West Feliciana Hospital CEO; Ernst Ayo, West Feliciana Hospital Board; Brandon Tummey, nurse practitioner, West Feliciana Hospital; Olton Scott, Dyvar Anderson, Aimee Cook and Magruder Hazlip, West Feliciana Hospital Board; Andy D’Aquilla, mayor, St. Francisville; and Alden Daniels, West Feliciana Chamber of Commerce, help cut the ribbon on the new urgent care center in town.