D’Aquilla said about $25,000 is being held for the commission’s use, but jurors said the commission has not met for several years. They said they will contact the last known members and advertise for applicants to fill vacancies in an attempt to revive the panel
On another matter the jury approved a design change to allow the state highway department to install a box culvert as a replacement for a bridge over Palmer’s
Branch on Billy Goat Road east of Wilson. Public Works Director Derrick Hill said bridges on Midway, Shady Grove and Line roads are scheduled for new
Old ferry landing sports yellow wildflowers under bright sunshine
BY LEILA PITCHFORD Staff writer
While the past few weeks of weather have been jumping between extremes, Saturday, March 14 was a gorgeous day in St. Francisville.
People were fishing on the banks of Bayou Sara’s overflow and on the side of the former Mississippi River ferry landing. The landing was also covered in wildflowers, including Packera glabella, known commonly as butterweed. Wildflower.org says it is a mem-
Former owner Goff dies
ber of the aster family, and it prefers moist-to-wet areas.
“This species can bloom in sun or shade, as long as it is situated in a moist site. The leaves emerge in the fall and add low winter green to the landscape. Blooms are profuse, filling its colonies with yellow throughout the spring months,” the site said.
The Louisville Nature Center said, “Butterweed serves as an early food source for pollinators, including butterflies and bees. Birds, especially goldfinches, eat the seeds that will follow the flowers.”
Angola officer dies in vehicle incident on prison grounds,
BY ELLYN COUVILLION Staff writer
incident,” the Department of Public Safety and Corrections said. The department said, it was “deeply saddened to share the unexpected passing of one of our valued team members, Master Sgt. Tyler Grezaffi.”
The sergeant “was an integral part of our team, known for her professionalism,
officials say
commitment and positive spirt,” the Department of Corrections said in a statement. Grezaffi previously worked for the Pointe Coupee and Iberville parish sheriffs’ offices, the department said. “Since joining our department more than a year ago, her dedication, energy and kindness have left an unforgettable mark on everyone she encountered,” Gary Westcott, secretary of the department, said. Louisiana State Police are investigating the incident.
STAFF PHOTOS BY LEILA PITCHFORD
A family fishes on the banks of the Mississippi River with the Audubon Bridge and Big Cajun in the background on March 14 at the old ferry landing in St. Francisville
Butterweed, Packera glabella, near the old Mississippi River Ferry landing in St Francisville
Butterweed is abundant near the old Mississippi River Ferry
The St. Francisville Farmers Market is on Thursdays, including March 25, at 9961 Wilcox Street
The St. Francisville Community Market will be the same day at the same address. Spring vegetables should be available in a few weeks. On April 24-26, several of the vendors will set up at the Tunica Hills Yard Sale Trail.
Celebrate trains
The Greater Baton Rouge Model Railroaders, which meets in Jackson on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month, will be part of a familyfriendly celebration of trains and transportation. Enjoy hands-on activities, model train demos, live steam trains, exhibitions and planetarium shows inside the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, which is an old railroad depot.
The event is from 10 a.m to 2 p.m., April 18.
Highlights include a chance to operate model trains including “Thomas and Friends,” train displays, vendors, door prizes, live steam train action, interactive STEAM activities and exhibitions celebrating Baton Rouge’s railway history Train Day admission and full day access to the Irene W Pennington Planetarium are included with regular museum entry Spring events abound
March 28
East Feliciana’s Got Talent, the March 28 fundraiser/festival/talent show for the Council on Aging includes raffles, vendors and concessions. Money raised by the event will go toward the funding for seniors on the waiting list for home meal delivery
The event at the Jackson COA site, 3699 La. 10, Jackson, will include an outside portion with vendors selling arts and crafts 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
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.
The Rosedown Easter Egg Hunt starts at 2 p.m., March 28. 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
The Siege of Port Hudson Battle Reenactment is March 2829 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.
April 2 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.
April 18 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.
April 24-26
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.
April 25
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.
May 3 The West Feliciana High Royal Blue Club will hold its Spring Swing golf scramble on May 3 at Beaver Creek Golf Club 1100 E. Plains-Port Hudson Road, Zachary Contact Shelley Genre at (225) 6354561or genres2wfpsb.org for information
May 9
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
June 13 The Day the War Stopped will be June 13 in St. Francisville.
Email Leila Pitchford at lpitchford@theadvocate com.
DEMCO recognizes students at 49th annual essay contest
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 competition. 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.
Area students win at Louisiana Seafood ProStart Invitational
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.
DEMOCRAT
Efforts underway to revive Tourist Commission
BY JAMES MINTON
Contributing
by busi-
nesses serving overnight guests.
D’Aquilla said about $25,000 is being held for the commission’s use, but jurors said the commission has not met for several years. They said they will contact the last known members and advertise for applicants to fill vacancies in an attempt to revive the panel
On another matter the jury approved a design change to allow the state highway department to install a box culvert as a replacement for a bridge over Palmer’s
Branch on Billy Goat Road east of Wilson. Public Works Director Derrick Hill said bridges on Midway, Shady
Old ferry landing sports yellow wildflowers under bright sunshine
BY LEILA PITCHFORD Staff writer
While the past few weeks of weather have been jumping between extremes, Saturday, March 14 was a gorgeous day in St. Francisville.
People were fishing on the banks of Bayou Sara’s overflow and on the side of the former Mississippi River ferry landing.
The landing was also covered in wildflowers, including Packera glabella, known commonly as butterweed.
Wildflower.org says it is a mem-
ber of the aster family, and it prefers moist-to-wet areas.
“This species can bloom in sun or shade, as long as it is situated in a moist site. The leaves emerge in the fall and add low winter green to the landscape. Blooms are profuse, filling its colonies with yellow throughout the spring months,” the site said.
The Louisville Nature Center said, “Butterweed serves as an early food source for pollinators, including butterflies and bees. Birds, especially goldfinches, eat the seeds that will follow the flowers.”
Angola offi
cer dies in vehicle incident on prison grounds, officials say
BY ELLYN COUVILLION Staff writer
describe as a “vehicle incident,” the Department of Public Safety and Corrections said. The department said, it was “deeply saddened to share the unexpected passing of one of our valued team members, Master Sgt. Tyler Grezaffi.”
The sergeant “was an integral part of our team, known for her professionalism,
commitment and positive spirt,” the Department of Corrections said in a statement. Grezaffi previously worked for the Pointe Coupee and Iberville parish sheriffs’ offices, the department said. “Since joining our department more than a year ago, her dedication, energy and kindness have left an unforgettable mark on everyone she encountered,” Gary Westcott, secretary of the department, said.
Louisiana State Police are investigating the incident.
STAFF PHOTOS BY LEILA PITCHFORD
A family fishes on the banks of the Mississippi River with the Audubon Bridge and Big Cajun in the background on March 14 at the old ferry landing in St. Francisville
Butterweed, Packera glabella, near the old Mississippi River Ferry landing in St Francisville
Butterweed is abundant near the old Mississippi River Ferry
The St. Francisville Farmers Market is on Thursdays, including March 25, at 9961 Wilcox Street
The St. Francisville Community Market will be the same day at the same address. Spring vegetables should be available in a few weeks. On April 24-26, several of the vendors will set up at the Tunica Hills Yard Sale Trail.
Celebrate trains
The Greater Baton Rouge Model Railroaders, which meets in Jackson on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month, will be part of a familyfriendly celebration of trains and transportation. Enjoy hands-on activities, model train demos, live steam trains, exhibitions and planetarium shows inside the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, which is an old railroad depot.
The event is from 10 a.m to 2 p.m., April 18.
Highlights include a chance to operate model trains including “Thomas and Friends,” train displays, vendors, door prizes, live steam train action, interactive STEAM activities and exhibitions celebrating Baton Rouge’s railway history Train Day admission and full day access to the Irene W Pennington Planetarium are included with regular museum entry Spring events abound
March 28
East Feliciana’s Got Talent, the March 28 fundraiser/festival/talent show for the Council on Aging includes raffles, vendors and concessions. Money raised by the event will go toward the funding for seniors on the waiting list for home meal delivery
The event at the Jackson COA site, 3699 La. 10, Jackson, will include an outside portion with vendors selling arts and crafts 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
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.
The Rosedown Easter Egg Hunt starts at 2 p.m., March 28. 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
The Siege of Port Hudson Battle Reenactment is March 2829 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.
April 2 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.
April 18 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.
April 24-26
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.
April 25
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.
May 3 The West Feliciana High Royal Blue Club will hold its Spring Swing golf scramble on May 3 at Beaver Creek Golf Club 1100 E. Plains-Port Hudson Road, Zachary Contact Shelley Genre at (225) 6354561or genres2wfpsb.org for information
May 9
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
June 13 The Day the War Stopped will be June 13 in St. Francisville.
Email Leila Pitchford at lpitchford@theadvocate com.
DEMCO recognizes students at 49th annual essay contest
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 competition. 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.
Area students win at Louisiana Seafood ProStart Invitational
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.
East Feliciana Drug and Alcohol Awareness Council presents Sober Steps Line Dance for Life
BY MELINDA RAWLS HOWELL
Contributing writer
Line dancing was on tap March 16 for attendees at the East Feliciana Drug and Alcohol Awareness Council’s Sober Steps activity
The Sober Steps program, held in Jackson, is called Line Dance for Life. It will go on through July and is funded by a grant. The council seeks
to prevent and educate people about substance abuse, according to program coordinator Taylor Torrence. It also seeks to provide events like line-dancing for people to enjoy, she said.
The events are held two times a month, one in the morning and one in the evening at each of the two East Feliciana Council on Aging sites in Clinton and Jackson.
They are open to all ages 12 and up from East Feliciana, West Feliciana and St. Helena parishes. Food and drinks are provided and entry is free.
The April theme is Family Night and the Clinton site events are from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on April 6 and 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on April 27; at the Jackson site from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on April 14 and 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on April 20. For more information, call (225) 663-0696.
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
PHOTO BY MELINDA RAWLS HOWELL
Attending the March Line Dance for Life event in Jackson, front from left, are Amy Sanders, Belinda Bordelon, dance instructor Patsha Tate and program coordinator Taylor Torrence; and back row, Clover Stephenson, Shirley Williams, Cathy Matthews and Gwendolyn Stephenson.
Marbles glide through paint to create art
BY MELINDA RAWLS HOWELL
Contributing writer
Painting with marbles was a fun craft at the Jackson branch of the Audubon Regional Library recently
Budding artists used little rolling balls to create colorful streaks as they rolled the marbles through dabs of chosen colors, making abstract art.
The three branches of the library system offer such fun children’s activities from time to time as well as all their regular books, DVDs, board games, grab-n-go craft bags and more.
Terry Taylor, Audubon’s administrative and outreach coordinator, was ready with supplies and set up at the tables where three colors of paint were then chosen by the painter Next, the circles of paint were squeezed
onto a paper, which was secured in a shallow box.
Several clear marbles were added and the rocking and tilting of the box by the painter began. The motion was back-and-forth or upand-down or side-to-side but not too fast or too wild.
Gently trying to get the marbles to roll through the paint and thus do the painting was the goal.
The puddles of color spread some and the lines of colors extended out. In addition to a painting, the finished products included the now-colorful marbles.
Books about painting and crafts were also pointed out by Taylor
For more information about the Audubon Regional Library’s branches in Clinton, Jackson and Greensburg, go to audubonregional. net or their Facebook page.
PHOTO BY MELINDA RAWLS HOWELL
The Audubon Regional Library recently hosted workshop on painting with marbles. The finished artwork sits in cardboard boxes.
Terry Taylor, Audubon library’s administrative and outreach coordinator, talks about the art of painting with marbles during a recent program.
