Football wraps; summer training gears up
Darlene Denstorff AROUND ASCENSION
Father’s Day craft, vendor market set
The Baton Rouge Father’s Day Craft and Vendor Market is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Tanger Outlets Gonzales Gonzales Jambalaya pageant
Children can compete starting at 1 p.m. Sunday in the Gonzales Jambalaya Children’s Pageant at the Gonzales Civic Center Contestants in the Miss Gonzales Jambalaya Festival Pageant compete starting at 6 p.m. Sunday For information, visit jambalayafestival.net or email gonzalesjambalayafestpageant@ gmail.com.
Ascension Pride
Ascension’s second Pride Festival kicks off at 10 a.m. June 20 with a sensory-friendly hour with a circus theme at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center
The festival continues from noon to 7 p.m. Admission is free.
Highway 621 Outdoor Market
The Highway 621 Outdoor Market, 39275 La. 621, in Gonzales opens at 8 a.m. every Saturday until the end of July Shop vendors’ booths and purchase locally grown produce.
Auditions at Red Magnolia Red Magnolia Theatre is holding auditions June 20 for its production of “Men on Boats.” Playwright Jaclyn Backhaus turns history on its ear in this exhilarating, heart-warming and funny exploration into an unknown world of safety and adventure, gender and narrative.
Roles include diverse women and gender-expansive actors age 16 and up.
Show dates are Aug. 21-23 and Aug. 28-30 at 38138 Monticello Drive in Prairieville. Food distributions set
Ascension Parish’s commodity distribution is set for the second Tuesday of each month in Donaldsonville and the second Wednesday of the month in Gonzales.
Distributions are from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Frank Sotile Jr. Pavilion in Donaldsonville and the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales.
All recipients must be prequalified by visiting the Ascension Parish Health Unit, 1024 E. Ascension Complex Blvd., in Gonzales or the Donaldsonville courthouse, 300 Houmas St. Contact Layne Melancon at (225) 450-1006 or layne. melancon@fmolhs.org.
Contact Darlene Denstorff by phone, (225) 388-0215 or (225) 603-1998; or email, ascension@theadvocate.com or ddenstorff@theadvocate. com. Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday
Ascension Parish football teams went through spring training with their football teams with some playing games and others choosing to take the option of starting early in the fall.
East Ascension, Donaldsonville and Prairieville participated in spring games while Dutchtown, St Amant, Ascension Catholic and Ascension Christian choose to take advantage of starting a week earlier in the fall.
The Spartans, led by coach Brock Matherne, scrimmaged with Thibodaux and ended their spring drills on a high note.
Community news report
For the 31st year, Donaldsonville residents will host a Juneteenth celebration June 10 and June 12-13. The city, Ascension Parish, CF Industries and the Juneteenth Committee boast a three-day family-oriented celebration to commemorate Juneteenth, the day enslaved people in the last geographic area in America where slavery existed learned of their freedom. It was June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, when Union Gen. Gordon Granger read General Order No. 3,
to Central. Matherne mentioned some standouts from spring training.
Troy LeBoeuf ASCENSION SPORTS
“Our goal going into spring was to practice fast and be physical. Developing the fundamentals of the game, catching, blocking, ball security and tackling make programs great,” Matherne said. The Spartans finished 8-4, losing in the second round of the playoffs
“Jeremyah Merriweather impressed the coaches as always, just the way he carries himself in our program,” Matherne said. “Other offensive standouts were Ladeavon Curry, Zion Delong and Carson Lacombe. On the defensive side, Micah Levy, Carson Landry Jordan Elder and Jakyle Poindexter All of those guys had a great start to spring and lead by example.”
Matherne
Watching the Spartans in the spring game, the thing that stood out was the way they ran to the ball, that is not by accident.
“The price of admission to play defense is to run to the ball, if you don’t, you will not get an opportunity Our defensive coordinator, Dennis Skains, teaches relentless effort and he kept it simple for the kids. This group is moving in the right direction, and we are pleased with their
Bob Blanchard, of Tiger Trimlight, set up a booth at this weekend’s Baton Rouge Home Show at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales to provide information about the company’s permanent programmable holiday and year-round lighting
Show puts home improvement trends on display
BY WENDY LOUP Contributing writer
More than two dozen home improvement vendors provided information and demonstrations this weekend during the Baton Rouge Home Show at Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales.
The event, organized by American Consumer Shows, attracts homeowners in various stages of remodeling, decorating and landscaping.
Vendors included local small businesses, as well as national chains, such as Home Depot.
The two-day show also gave businesses the chance to meet potential customers and clients face-to-face.
Connie Nola, owner of Academy Painting, discussed her services, which include interior and exterior painting and pressure washing.
Academy Painting, located in Baton Rouge and serving multiple parishes, has been open since 1996 and uses uppergrade paints.
“I love the people, and the people that attend the shows are really interesting,” Nola said. “I’ve participated in this show every year since 2005.”
Nola has seen trends in home paints change many times over the years.
“Different colors and styles come and go,” Nola said. “For years, the ‘faux finish’ was popular and now people say, ‘I’m over it.’
“We’ve seen colors like hunter green become popular and then leave. Gray was popular for years and now we have switched to soft white colors.”
Curb appeal has also seen many trends over the years. The latest is the growing popularity in LED-trimmed outdoor
lights.
ABOVE: More than two dozen home improvement and landscaping vendors were on hand over the weekend. LEFT: Connie Nola, owner of Academy Painting, stands at her booth, ready to answer questions.
Bob Blanchard, of Tiger Trimlight, was on hand to discuss the company’s permanent programmable holiday and year-round lighting. Tiger Trimlight opened in 2022 in Salt Lake City and now has more than 100 locations across the country
The company offers homeowners the convenience of per-
See HOME, page 3G
See FOOTBALL, page 4G Plantation’s conservation designation removed
BY ANNAKATE FREELAND Staff writer
The Ascension Parish Council voted Thursday to rezone a section of the Woodstock Plantation from conservation to heavy industrial. The approximately 150-acre parcel sits west of La. 405, roughly 1,300 feet south of Noel Road near Donaldsonville.
Two residents at the meeting expressed their opposition before the council’s decision. One turned in a written note saying he was opposed, but did not want to speak. The other Harry Joseph of Donaldsonville, urged council members to consider the impact of continued industrial expansion on nearby communities.
“I just feel that people cannot live with y’all just rezoning heavy industrial everywhere. We’re going to get to the point where we have nowhere to live,” Joseph said. “Donaldsonville is not a big place where we can go from one spot to another spot. It’s not like that. And I don’t know why we are trying to destroy the areas that we have in our community and I just hope and pray that y’all decide and make the right decision on what y’all are doing on this side of the river, because people still live here.” MR Engineering and Surveying LLC applied for the rezoning in December 2024, according to parish documents.
Chad Stevens, vice president of engineering at MR Engineering and Surveying, said the land would be used as a laydown area to support unloading from another facility about 2 miles away He noted the property is in the West Bank Industrial Overlay Zone. The Woodstock Plantation was historically managed for sugar cane production. In the 1890s, the infrastructure was destroyed by a massive Mississippi River flood.
in America,” Sullivan said “It takes a significant amount of personal time and effort to put together an event such as this. I would also like to thank our city council members, sponsors, partners, vendors, artists, volunteers, and anyone who had a hand in making this year’s 31st Annual Juneteenth Celebration a success.” Donaldsonville’s Juneteenth celebration starts on Wednesday with an author’s talk Ascension Parish Library will host Angela A. Allen Bell, author of “Under Indictment: Race, Juries & Justice in Louisiana,” and Kim Jones, author of “Nouveaux Renaissance.” For information and to register, visit eventbrite.com. On Friday, the committee is partnering with BASF and the Greater Baton Rouge Area Food Bank to host a food distribution for the residents of Donaldsonville. This is BASF’s fifth year and they will provide protein and a healthy food box to the residents of the Donaldsonville community Finally, on Saturday, Donaldsonville, Ascension Parish and CF Donaldsonville to celebrate 31st Juneteenth celebration of
announcing that “all slaves are free” by Proclamation of President Abraham Lincoln. The Emancipation Proclamation was signed on Sept. 22, 1862, and issued on Jan. 1, 1863. It took over 21/2 years for the news to travel to southwest Texas. Donaldsonville and the festival committee have carried on the Juneteenth Festival tradition locally since its inception in 1995. Started by the late former Donaldsonville Mayor Bernard “BJ” Francis Sr and his late wife, Janet Gaines Francis, it was continued through the efforts of Kathe Hambrick, the River Road
African American Museum and many volunteers from the community until 2010. From 2011-23, Mayor Leroy J. Sullivan Sr.; Tamiko Francis Garrison, daughter of Janet and Bernard Francis; Allison B Hudson; and the city assumed the planning of the festival. In 2023, the city announced the addition of new committee members Tamiko Stroud, the daughter of Tamiko Garrison and granddaughter of the Francises, Wayne Hamilton and Jason Worley “Juneteenth is a landmark in history and a celebration of freedom
ä See JUNETEENTH, page 4G
PHOTOS BY WENDY LOUP
‘Living in the South’ offers a lesson in La. culture for seventh graders
Ascension schools fills leadership posts
Community news report
Prairieville Middle School host-
ed its annual “Living in the South” event May 8 for seventh grade students, who were given the opportunity to hear about culture across the state. The event also provided opportunities for students to participate in career awareness activities by hearing from a variety of speakers on careers specific to Louisiana
Featured speaker Yvette Landry, an author and Grammy-nominated musician, shared Louisiana history and culture of the Cajuns, played the accordion and read an excerpt from her book “The Wild Girl of Catahoula.”
Landry was aspiring writer Annabelle Meador’s favorite presenter
“It was really cool to see a very successful (author) from Louisiana, and it was really cool the way she played the Cajun instruments for us,” the student said. “I enjoyed hearing about her life and stories from Cajun culture.”
Harper Crain agreed stating, “I absolutely loved her I fully expected her class to be boring, but I was shocked. She played really cool instruments and played some amazing songs. She had a beautiful voice and wrote some pretty awesome books, too.”
Living in the South also featured several historical talks, including one from Casey Cleveland, who taught students about the Siege of Port Hudson and the site’s importance during the Civil War. Chris Achee, a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, spoke about the history of West Florida and how it became part of Louisiana. Additional members of the organization — Derrick Spell, Paul Bledsoe, Brad Richard and Eddie Vaughn and Savannah Hackler of the Daughters of the American Revolution shared information about the founding of the United States and presented a Patriot’s Chest featuring historical artifacts and educational materials. Their talk included information about the Louisiana soldiers who fought alongside Bernardo de Gálvez in the American Revolution.
“I am incredibly grateful to the Sons of the American Revolution for helping bring history to life for our students during Living in the South. Their presentations gave students the opportunity to connect classroom learning with real stories, artifacts, and people who are passionate about preserving our nation’s history,” said Brooke Todd, a seventh grade social studies teacher at Prairieville Middle School.
Students also had the opportunity to learn from a few high school students serving as State Wetlands Ambassadors through 4-H. Beau Normand enjoyed the station, stating, “They were funny and let us do the demonstration.”
Blaize Coco, Hailee Daigle and Libby Coco shared information about Louisiana’s rapidly changing coastline and the importance of protecting coastal wetlands and barrier islands. Through a handson activity, students explored how barrier islands help reduce storm surge and protect communities during hurricanes. Students also learned about the importance of honey bees from Jason and Madison White. Their presentation focused on how honey bees develop, produce honeycombs, and contribute to the environment through pollination.
Students experienced a wide variety of hands-on STEM and sci-
from BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center who brought several native wildlife species for students to observe and interact with firsthand.
Representatives from the Ascension Chamber of Commerce also participated in by speaking with students about careers and workforce opportunities available throughout Ascension Parish. Their presentation highlighted a variety of local career paths, educational opportunities and industries that are continuing to grow in the region.
ence activities during Living in the South as well. Patrick and Tyler Theriot, a father-and-son hot air balloon team, brought their balloon, Confetti, and explained the science behind hot-air ballooning.
Another popular activity was presented by CF Industries, led by Thomas Guillot, Glenn Zeringue, Robert Wegener and Evin Pousson. Students worked together to design and build Lego towers capable of surviving simulated natural disasters.
Returning speakers included former Prairieville Middle students Cameron Gautreau, the executive chef at Proverbial Wine Bistro, who treated students to Bananas Foster, and Jack Simmons, a sports turf specialist for LSU, who shared insights into the maintenance, preparation and painting of the university’s athletic fields.
Also returning were Lindsay Seely, of Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, and representatives
“One of the best parts of this event is watching students make real-world connections,” said Amy Jarreau, Living in the South coordinator and seventh grade teacher at Prairieville Middle. “It gives them the opportunity to see how Louisiana’s history, culture, and industries continue to shape the world around them today, while also helping them understand the people and events that came before us.”
In addition to learning a lot about Louisiana, students get a special Louisiana treat of boiled crawfish and jambalaya.
Seventh grade teachers at Prairieville Middle School organize the Living in the South event annually as a way to enrich student learning and passion for our state and local area The event is funded by proceeds from a cookbook fundraiser and T-shirt sales. The cookbooks are created from student-submitted recipes and their family favorites.
Patrick and Tyler Theriot, a father-andson hot air balloon team, brought their balloon, Confetti, to Prairieville Middle’s ‘Living
Community news report
Ascension Public Schools has announced the appointments of Michelle Mullins, director of primary schools, and Karen Daigle, supervisor of primary schools.
“Both leaders bring a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to supporting our students, teachers, and school communities. Their commitment to academic excellence and student achievement will continue to strengthen our primary schools and help move our district forward,” Superintendent Edith M. Walker said.
principals and seeing the dedication they bring every day is a reminder of what makes Ascension such a strong district, and I’m honored to continue serving in this new role,” Mullins said.
She is married to Jared Mullins, and they have three children, Marley, Reed and Maddie, along with two grandchildren Mason and Charlie. Daigle has dedicated 28 years to serving students and families in Ascension Public Schools.
Mullins has dedicated her career to education and student achievement, serving in a variety of leadership and instructional roles throughout Ascension Public Schools, a news release said.
A graduate of East Ascension High School, Mullins earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, an alternate teaching certificate and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from LSU in 2009.
Mullins began her career in education as a classroom teacher and has since served Ascension Public Schools in several capacities, including teacher, instructional coach, mentor and master teacher assistant principal, principal and instructional supervisor
“I’ve loved every position I’ve held in Ascension Public Schools, and each experience has strengthened my passion for supporting our students, staff, and school leaders. Working alongside our
Daigle earned both a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Education degree from Southeastern Louisiana University During her time with Ascension Public Schools, Daigle has served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles, including third grade teacher at Dutchtown Primary and Duplessis Primary teacher coach at Prairieville Primary, and master teacher at Donaldsonville Primary and Lowery Elementary She later served as assistant principal and principal at Lowery Elementary and has served as principal at Galvez Primary since 2022.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Ascension Public Schools in this new role. Every experience throughout my career has prepared me for this moment, and I’m proud to work alongside dedicated educators and leaders who care deeply about our students, schools, and community,” Daigle said.
She is married to Eddie Daigle, and they have two children, Brandon and Brooke, along with two grandsons, Parker and Nolan.
ADVOCATE 40444 Cannon Road, Gonzales, LA 70737 (225) 388-0215 PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY Online at theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/communities/ascension/ COMMUNITY SECTION EDITOR Darlene T. Denstorff ddenstorff@theadvocate.com OFFICE:
Mullins
Daigle
Seventh graders Anna Landry, Haven Young and Emily Phan attempt to build the tallest tower during a presentation by CF Industries.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Cameron Gautreau, the executive chef at Proverbial Wine Bistro, talks to Prairieville Middle students about his passion for cooking
in the South’ day.
Members of the Sons of the American Revolution, from left, Paul Bledsoe and Derrick Spell and second from right, Eddie Vaughn, and Brad Richard present Prairieville Middle School’s Amy Jarreau, Brooke Todd, and Principal Matthew Geraci with an America 250 Award Ribbon.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Baseball players and Girl Scouts from Ascension Parish place flags at Port Hudson National Cemetery gravesites in preparation for Memorial Day.
Ascension baseball players, Girl Scouts place flags at cemetery
Community news report
Ascension Parish Girl Scout Seniors Libby Coco and Samantha Pasqua, along with several players from the Ascension Parish Baseball League, spent a recent morning placing flags on grave sites at the Port Hudson National Cemetery in honor Memorial Day
This tradition began several years ago through the efforts of coach John Murphy in partnership with the Wreaths Across America program.
Each year, Murphy invites youth from across the parish to
pay their respects through Memorial Day flag placements and by assisting with the wreath ceremony held in December
“These moments offer young people the opportunity to learn about those who served our country, hear stories and memories shared at grave sites, and gain a deeper understanding of military traditions,” a news release said.
“If you’re lucky, Coach John may even explain the meaning behind the coins sometimes left on headstones — a small but powerful symbol of remembrance and respect.”
Ascension Parish baseball players, a Girl Scout and coach John Murphy place American flags in Port Hudson National Cemetery in honor of Memorial Day.
STEAM LAB
Grant aids study plans, test taking for students
Community news report
Dutchtown High students have improved class grades, content understanding, AP scores and ACT scores, according to study. com, which was paid for by an Ascension Fund grant, teacher Mandy Perret said.
“We have also used it for career research, ACT review AP review PSAT review and for exploratory learning,” she said. “Our school continues to grow and was chosen as the top 7% of open enrollment high schools in the United States.
“Through my grant, I worked to assign students work on study com to provide understanding on new topics as well as reteaching assistance students felt they needed help to understand,” she said.
Through the review the program provides students get detailed descriptions when they
miss a problem, helpful videos, practice quizzes, and even worksheets, she said.
The program allows students to learn by reading information, watching short informative videos, providing practice problems and tests.
The money used to buy the software program came from The Ascension Fund’s Claire Carline Memorial grant.
The Ascension Fund is a nonprofit organization established in 1991 by the Gonzales Rotary Club as an instrument for private sector leaders to invest directly in the work of individual teachers and schools through grants for innovative ideas and programs in Ascension Parish public schools.
Teacher grants of $500 or $1,000 and School Impact grants of $2,500 are awarded annually on a competitive basis.
Contestant Nicolas Schexnayder spins coach Aimee RussoMounger at the end of their routine during the 2025 Dancing for a Cause.
Dancing for a Cause seeks sponsorships
Community news report
Dancing For A Cause, a fund-
raiser for the Arc of East Ascension, is seeking sponsorships for its 17th season.
All funds raised will benefit the Arc of East Ascension, which is a nonprofit organization that provides needs to individuals with intellectual and developmental delays in Ascension Parish and surrounding areas.
“Our vision is to see a future for people with disabilities that is allinclusive and ensures a quality of
life through education, employment, family/community involvement, housing, recreation, and access to services,” a news release said.
The event, which features leaders showing off their dance moves with professional dancers, is July 11 at the REV Center at LamarDixon Expo Center in Gonzales.
A variety of sponsorship packages are available. For information, call (225) 621-2000, pick up an application at 1122 S.E. Ascension Complex Blvd., in Gonzales or email dfac2026@gmail.com.
manent programmable house trim lights featuring various styles and colors which can be changed often.
“People enjoy lights and decorations,” Blanchard said. “We offer a one-time installation, and this eliminates homeowners having to constantly put up and take down lights for holidays.
“People in Louisiana love to celebrate holidays and our lighting make things so much easier We offer various colors for Mardi Gras, Christmas, Easter, even purple and gold to celebrate LSU.”
Among the home and landscaping vendors, Jimmy Frederick, marketing director for Tanger Outlet in Gonzales, promoted the outlet as one of Ascension Parish’s long-term staples.
With more than 50 stores offering discount prices, the outlet mall has become the go-to place for shoppers over the decades.
“We’ve been in Gonzales since 1993,” Frederick said. “The Gonzales one is actually one of the oldest Tanger centers around. This center has been here for so long that we feel like we are a part of the community We’ve gotten to know the people in Ascension Parish.”
Tanger Outlet, just like Ascension Parish, has had its share of growing pains over the years.
La. 30 and the area around Tanger has been under construction over the last year for a major state road improvement project, which included a roundabout.
“The construction projects have made things a bit tricky,” Frederick said “But we are still on the top of shoppers’ minds.
“Traffic is hurting some of our sales, but we are hopeful the construction will be wrapped up by Black Friday.”
While the construction woes are a problem for shoppers, Frederick emphasized the outlet’s brand, as well as the sales, attract shoppers from Ascension Parish and surrounding communities.
“Brands at our outlet are offering deals and discounts the malls do not,” Frederick said. You get the best deal as possible with our stores.”
The Gonzales Tanger has hosted several art and craft vendor events over the last year and is planning a Back-to-School Bash later this summer
STEAM
HarryHurst’s Advanced STEAMLab Prepares Students forReal WorldCareers
At HarryHurst Middle School,studentsare gaininghands-on experience in engineering,broadcasting, journalism, and technology throughthe school’sAdvanced STEAMLab.Theydesignprojects likecircuitboards and mechanicaldeviceswhile alsoproducing news broadcasts,podcasts,videos,and theschool newspaper
Principal Sean Dwyercreditsthe lab’ssuccess to communitysupport, includingfunding from Shell. “Whatour studentsdoisamazing,” Dwyersaid. “Shell askedhow it could help, encouraged us to think bigger when we answered, and that support transformed our STEAMclassroom intoaninnovative Advanced STEAMLab.”
Throughthese uniquelearning opportunities, studentsare discoveringnew passions and preparing forfuture success.Shell’sinvestment is helping open doorsfor thenextgeneration of engineers, creators,and innovators
“I see studentsproblem solving andaccepting tasks they neverthought they could do.Theyare growingasleadersand taking riskslikespeaking in front of theentire school or interviewing our principal.”
LINDSAY MAXIE STEAMCoordinator
HarryHurst Middle School
ADVA NCED
Community news report
Graduates from Ascension Parish include: Lousiana Tech
Louisiana Tech University has announced graduates from its spring commencement ceremonies May 23.
GONZALES: Adin R. Carter: Bachelor of Science; Lily A. Cook: Bachelor of Arts; Luke Gregory Hackney: Bachelor of Science; Demi Marie Jeansonne: Bachelor of Science; Alexander M. Lambert: Bachelor of Science; Yahir Gerardo Levario Nieto: Bachelor of Science; and Caroline Grace Sanchez: Bachelor of Science.
PRAIRIEVILLE: Reese A. Haydel: Bachelor of Science; Ethan Lee Hunt: Bachelor of Science; Toby Joseph Latino: Bachelor of Science; Kailee Z. Lavigne: Bachelor of Science; Owen Michael Leblanc: Bachelor of Science; Aiden Daniel Remont: Bachelor of Science; JacksonRonaldSlater:BachelorofScience;BrandonJames Stokley: Bachelor of Science; and Elaina Mae Stuntz: Master of Arts.
ST AMANT: Addyson Lynn Gautreaux: Bachelor of Science; Kinslei Marie Scroggs: Master of Architecture; and Joseph Lucas Waguespack: Bachelor of Science.
LSU LSU graduation ceremonies were May 15-16 in various buildings on campus.
Abby Claire Lobell: bachelor’s, cum laude, Geismar; AdelynMcKenzieRush:bachelor’s, Prairieville; Alex D. Matus: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Alexis Katherine Antolik: master’s, Prairieville; Alexis Nicole Loya: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Allie G. Sullivan: bachelor’s, Geismar; Alyssa M. Williams: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Ameyah A’Johnna Johnson: master’s, Gonzales; Ana Maria Toma: bachelor’s, cum laude, Prairieville; Angelle Nicole Bourque: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Anna Beth V. Henley: bachelor’s,summacumlaude, Prairieville;AnthonyMocanu: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Anthony Raemsch: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Arianna Audrey Walters: bachelor’s, Geismar; Ashley Davies: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Ashley Nicole Cornwell: bachelor’s, Geismar; Aubrey Sorrells Landaiche: bachelor’s, summa cum laude, Prairieville; Audrey Elizabeth Belleu: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Austin Zeringue: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Gonzales; Avery R Reulet: bachelor’s, Sorrento; Avery Sinclair Aucoin: master’s, Prairieville; Beau Holloway: bachelor’s, St. Amant; Belan E. Harvey: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Benjamin Dugas: bachelor’s,summacumlaude, Gonzales; Benjamin Paul Ragsdale: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Bennett John Bellina: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Billie J
FOOTBALL
Continued from page 1G
progress heading into summer workouts,” Matherne said. East Ascension played two quarterbacks in the spring game and Matherne was pleased with their progress.
“Coach Dane Charpentier and coach Sonny Charpentier coach that group and they are the best at it,” Matherne added. “We are confident in both guys and bring a different skill set to the table. I can see both of those kids playing a major role each week in the fall As the Spartans head into summer workouts, there is a clear goal in mind.
“We will continue to work fundamentals and compete against tough competition in our 7-on-7 games. This group has high expectations, and they will put the work in, very exciting times in our program,” Matherne said.
Savoy: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Blake S. Lebouef: bachelor’s, St. Amant; Brandt A Blanchard: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Brandt W. Zeller: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Brayden Mullins Comeaux: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Breanna Ryce Graham: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Bria Paige Salvadras: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Gonzales; Brian K. Hohensee Jr., bachelor’s, Gonzales; Brianna Leigh Cooley: master’s, Gonzales; Briette Rose Ruiz: bachelor’s, St. Amant; Brighid Rose Armentor: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Brodi Lynn Bourque: master’s, St. Amant; Brooke Elise Richard: bachelor’s, summa cum laude, Gonzales; Cade Christopher Pizzalato: bachelor’s, cum laude, Prairieville; Caitlin Marie Wegmann: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Caleb Joseph Hattier: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Calia Skinner: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Cam Corella: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Cameron James Little: bachelor’s, St. Amant; Carli Jae Sheets: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Carolina Alvarado: bachelor’s summa cum laude Geismar; Chloe Bourque; online bachelor’s, Prairieville; Chloe Panks: master’s, Prairieville; Christian Josiah Granger:bachelor’s,Geismar; Christopher A Duenez: master’s, Prairieville; Christopher J. Washington: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Claire Elizabeth Broussard: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Claire Marie Pizzalato: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Claire Marie Prats: bachelor’s, Geismar; Clancy Noel Walker: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Clayton Alexander Renaud: bachelor’s, Geismar; Clyde Michael Henry: bachelor’s, St Amant; Cody L Acosta: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Cole Martin: bachelor’s, Geismar; Corey V. Fallings II: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Darren Wilson: online master’s, Gonzales; David James Vennen: bachelor’s, Prairieville; David Sandoval: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Davis Joseph Bourgeois: bachelor’s, Prairieville; DeLaney F. Ladnier; online bachelor’s, Prairieville; Delicia C. Winfrey; online master’s, Darrow; Demi Leah Sanderson: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Devin J. Davis: online bachelor’s, Geismar; Dillon Summers: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Dylan Alaine Ledet: bachelor’s, summa cum laude, Gonzales; Dylan Christopher Peterson: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Dylan Khemmanyvong: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Edwin Xiao: bachelor’s, summa cum laude, Geismar; Elizabeth Anne Gatz: bachelor’s,summacumlaude, Geismar; Elizabeth Nicole Weimer: bachelor’s, Geismar; Ella Marie Lemann: bachelor’s, summa cum laude, Donaldsonville; Emily Grace Roe: bachelor’s, St. Amant; Emily Weidert Berteau: Educational Specialist,Gonzales;EmmaC. Blanchard: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Emma Faith Madere:
against St. James and are looking forward to a summer of work.
“Our goal was to find guys within the program to replace the 17 seniors that graduated,” Lee said. “We wanted them to get as many reps as possible. We saw some guys step into leadership roles this spring.”
The Tigers move down to 2A this fall and look forward to new scenery
“Move down in classification as far as district is concerned, gives us more district games,” Lee said. “We will still compete in Division 3 for the playoffs. We ramped up our nondistrict schedule to prepare us for district play.”
bachelor’s, Gonzales; Emma G. Bridges: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Ethan Blackwell: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Ethan Brian Moak: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Ethan E. Fenton: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Ethan Nelson: bachelor’s, St Amant; Ethan Viso: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Evan David Tassin: bachelor’s, cum laude, Geismar; Faith Lyn Vincent: bachelor’s, summa cum laude, Prairieville; Fletcher Reid Broussard: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Gabriela Sarai Joya: bachelor’s, Geismar; Gabriella A. Masters; online master’s, Prairieville; Galvin Wong: bachelor’s summa cum laude, Prairieville; Garrison E. Boehl: bachelor’s, cum laude, Prairieville; George G. Khairallah: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Geismar; Giovanna Marie — Antonia Hyderkhan: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Glenn Edward Martinez: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Godswill C. Agu: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Gracie Claire Guillot: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Grant Anthony Thevenot: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Grant Gautreau: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Grant Howie: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Guy Westbrook Sam: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Hadley Arnette Jarreau: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Haleigh Marie Shelton: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Hannah Leigh Pitre: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Harli Rae Turner: bachelor’s, Eunice; Harrison Verdigets: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Hayden Arturo Arzate: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Isabel Rose Bacas: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Jackson Ellis Ballard: bachelor’s, Geismar; Jackson Lee Flash: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Jacob Aaron Winkler: bachelor’s,summacumlaude, Prairieville; Jacob Alexander Lofton: master’s, Prairieville; Jacob Curtis Duhon: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Jacob Joseph Sagona: bachelor’s, Donaldsonville; Jacob R. Lobell: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Jaida R. Johnson: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Jarrett Ryan Eues: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Jasmine Michelle Worley; online Graduate Certificate, Donaldsonville; Jason Wong: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Jay Michael Corsentino: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Jayden R Guidry; online bachelor’s, Geismar; Jeffrey D. Eschmann: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Jenna Rose Einsel: bachelor’s, Geismar; Jeremiah Terrell Wilkins: bachelor’s, Sorrento; Jessica D. Neill: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Jordan Anthony Davis: bachelor’s,Gonzales;JordanChristopher Nassar: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Jordyn Rushing: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Julia Andrea Barrack: master’s, Prairieville; Juliette Flash: bachelor’s, cum laude, Gonzales; Kacie Nicole Farriel: online bachelor’s, Gonzales; Kaiden Joseph Keller: bachelor’s, Geismar; Kaley M. Melancon:
“We want to develop depth on both sides of the ball,” Schmitt said. “Repping our base offense and defense adding in younger players was key We have installed some things offensively and defensively that fit our personnel.”
bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Kayden Rayne White: bachelor’s, St. Amant; KeelyElizabeth Hudson: master’s, Geismar; Kelly Vy Vo: bachelor’s, Geismar; Kylee Elizabeth Holland: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Kylie Anna Trosclair: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Lauren Bravo: master’s, Gonzales; Lauren Macmurdo: bachelor’s, Geismar; Lazzaro Rea: bachelor’s, Prairieville; LeightonFlanagan:bachelor’s,summa cum laude, Geismar; Leila Elise Hart: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Lillian Florence Gaubert: bachelor’s, magna cumlaude,Prairieville;Lillian Kate Bodi: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Londyn F Howe: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Lucas LucVu:bachelor’s,cumlaude, Gonzales; Luisa Ramirez Enriquez: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Luke Becnel:bachelor’s,cumlaude, Prairieville; Luke Mitchell Prejean: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Lundyn Claire Herring: master’s, Prairieville; Madeline Lyn Fontenot: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Gonzales; Madelyn Yvonne Hathcock: master’s, Gonzales; Madison Minta Cain: bachelor’s, summa cum laude, Geismar; MahmoudA Mahgoub:bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Makayla L. White: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Mallory Julia Miller: bachelor’s, St. Amant; Marissa Goldthorp:bachelor’s,summacum laude, Prairieville; Mark Anthony Ellis Jr.: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Mason David Mitchell: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Mason Paul Rome: bachelor’s, Darrow; Matthew Corzo Lass: bachelor’s, cum laude, Prairieville; Maye Nader Al-Selwady: Doctorate, Prairieville; Melissa Ann Wilson: master’s, St Amant; Micah Pierce LeGrange: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Michael ClayBarden:master’s,Gonzales; Michael Redel Malone: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Michael S Manale: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Milain Li Marcel: bachelor’s, magna cum laude, Prairieville; Tavia Danielle Russell-Williams; online bachelor’s, Prairieville; Muhanad Dallas Yennes: bachelor’s, Donaldsonville; Nashelly Abigail González: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Nicholas James Barrient: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Nicholas K. Tillotson: master’s, Gonzales; Nicole Prejean: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Olivia Adele Jackson: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Olivia Grace Wilson: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Owen Cade Wells: bachelor’s, St. Amant; Owen Lapeyrouse: bachelor’s, Geismar; Parker James Solet: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Peyton Nicole Soignet: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Peyton Noel Carpenter: bachelor’s, summa cum laude, Geismar; Piper Smith: bachelor’s, summa cum laude, Prairieville; Rachel Victoria Bourgeois: master’s, Prairieville; Randi Nicole Delaneuville: bache-
lor’s, summa cum laude, St. Amant; Rebecca Elaine Hardee: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Regan Simone Archie: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Riley Joseph Weber: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Rishabh Malani: bachelor’s, Prairieville; River Zandal Ann Reese: bachelor’s, St. Amant; Robert T. Liggett: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Robyn Nicole Crooks: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Ryan Bromfield: bachelor’s, Geismar; Ryan Huang: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Rylee G. Johnson: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Ryleigh Anne Foy: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Rylie Morgan Gueho: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Samantha Robert: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Santos W. Ramos Jr.: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Sarah Catherine Richard: master’s, Geismar; Sean Patrick Melancon: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Serena Flossie Salizar: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Sheldon L. Vice III: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Shimra A. Ramgarib: bachelor’s, Gonzales; Skylar Danielle DeWerff: bachelor’s, cum laude, Gonzales; Sophie Claire Vidrine: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Steven Anthony Pimpinella: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Steven Tan: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Storie Dampier: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Tahja K. Walker: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Taufiq Khaled: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Taylor Anne Watkins: master’s, Prairieville; Taylor Austin Thompson; online bachelor’s, Gonzales; Taylor Irene Cuccia: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Tevin Long: bachelor’s, Sorrento; Thomas L. Landaiche III: master’s, Prairieville; Timothy James Smith Jr.: master’s, Prairieville; Toan Tran: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Tori Ivana Blouin; online master’s, Gonzales; Tyler Dylan Mercil: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Tyler John Braud: Doctorate, Gonzales; Victoria Danielle Walker: bachelor’s Prairieville; Vincent Michael Lavalle: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Vivian C. Moody: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Yana Ezabella Abney: bachelor’s Geismar; Yazlyn Rayder: bachelor’s, Geismar; Zachary Charles Olsen: bachelor’s, Prairieville; Zachary Ordeneaux: online master’s, Prairieville; Zachary Wardell: bachelor’s, cum laude, Prairieville; and Za’Dosha Joyce Daimya Pinellas: online master’s, Gonzales.
McNeese State University
McNeese State University conferred degrees on 675 graduates during two ceremonies for the university’s 166th commencement on May 22, in McNeese’s Townsley Law Arena.
DONALDSONVILLE: Alleriyonn Bionca Washington, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
GONZALES: Raven Re’shaune Jones, Master of Science in Nursing
PRAIRIEVILLE: Allasia Je’nae
Washington, Bachelor of General Studies
Northwestern University
Northwestern State University in Natchitoches awarded 890 degrees to 860 graduates during spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies May 13-14.
GEISMAR: Catherine Hunter, bachelor of arts; Nicholas Stelly, bachelor of fine arts
GONZALES: Avary Stutzman, bachelor of science; Riasia Winslow bachelor of science in nursing; Timmia Humphrey, master of science in nursing
PRAIRIEVILLE: Joseph Firmin, associate of general studies; Tyler Mayers, bachelor of arts; Stacey Gomez, Evan Kern, Owen Kern, bachelor of science
ST AMANT: Brianna Nale, associate of general studies, Rebecca Savoy, master of science in nursing
University of Arkansas
Two locals were among the recent graduates at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. Susan Caroline Gunby, of Livingston, and Kristin Elizabeth Plausky, of St. Amant, graduated with a bachelor of science in medical laboratory science from the UAMS College of Health Professions. University of Louisiana at Lafayette
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette held several commencment ceremonies May 15 at the Cajundome. Bachelor degrees
ARTS: Judah Grant Williams.
BUSINESSADMINISTATION: Aidan Cole Abbott, Lee J. Amedee, Treg Arboneaux, Derrilynn Abby Bell, Tayah Rachel Ratcliff and Avery Grace Stone.
EDUCATIONAND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT: Aaliyah Brown Courtney Grace Foley, Jax Michael Melancon and Noah Israel Sanchez.
ENGINEERING: Maggie Diez. LIBERAL ARTS: Jolie Michelle Daigle, Cara Echols, Clair Marie Hubbard, Braxton Kyle Hudnall and Brennen P Winn.
NURSING AND HEALTH SCIENCES: Mya Cintrell Burns and Karlyn Jane Landry
SCIENCES: Alexis Julianna Ghetti, Jailyn Shantel Hart, Roland Osahonoghomwen Okungbowa, Jas’myn Deshea Wilson and Sean Landon Winfield
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE: Chandra Maria Cousin, Charlee Cherie Griffin, Jerome Holmes and Jonathan Chandler Levesque. Master degrees
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION: Alana Augustine, Emily Grace Gautreau and Angela McCarstle.
LIBERALARTS:Allison Lea Abel and Kinsey Leeanne Hatfield NURSING & HEALTH SCIENCES: Sandra Oby Robinson.
Donaldsonville wrapped up spring training and the Tigers are preparing for an exciting fall season. The Tigers finished 8-4 under coach Darnell Lee and lost in the second round of the playoffs The Tigers scrimmaged
The Tigers will play in a new district that includes Dunham and quarterback Elijah Haven, who is committed to Alabama. Additionally, they added Lutcher to schedule, a perennial state championship contender Prairieville coach Mike Schmitt heads into the team’s third season of LHSAA competition after a 5-6 record and a playoff appearance. The program continues to be on an upward trajectory and Schmitt had clear goals heading into their spring game with Woodlawn.
The Hurricanes return several key starters; the addition of some junior varsity players who are ready to make the next step will be key for the depth in this 5A program. Schmitt mentioned that some sophomores have a chance to be a part of that much needed depth. Optimism is high with Prairieville and Schmitt is ready for his team to take the next step. “We are going into our third season of competition; the coaches are ready to see the guys and this program take the next step. Our seniors will be counted on take ownership of the program Our culture is established and we have more seniors than ever, exciting times within our program.”
Dutchtown coach Guy Mistretta comes off a 5-5 season and opening round playoff lost to Central. The program continues to be in good shape with several key players returning. St. Amant coach David
Oliver finished 7-4 overall, nearly knocking off eventual state champ, Ouachita Parish in the first round. Leaving the program as a four-year starter is QB Cooper Babin, a Nicholls football signee. Coach Oliver is the most tenured coach in Ascension Parish and will lead the Gators into an exciting season. Ascension Catholic and first-year head coach Taylor James made it to the D4 select finals, losing to Riverside. The Bulldogs finished 11-3 overall and graduated four-year starters in Trevin Simon (state rushing record and all-state MVP), Vaughn Blanchard (allstate), Josh Barber (all-state) and Christopher Anthens. Quarterback Greg Fernandez returns for his junior season as well as all state linebacker John Rob Daigle. Wideouts Cy Landry and Johnny Viallon return for their senior season. Lineman Cole Cassard returns with Daveyon Geason and Hayden Turner All-state defensive back Jacob Julien returns and will be counted on
along with some new faces to shoulder the load with Simon graduating in the backfield.
A new district is on tap with Riverside, South Plaquemines, West St. John and St. Martins. A nondistrict slate with Episcopal, Hammond, South Terrebonne, South Lafourche, Assumption and Westminster Lafayette will provide the Bulldogs with a strong test against higher classification schools.
Ascension Christian coach Conrad Gayle finished last season with a 6-5 record. The Lions move to a new district; they have opted to not compete for district honors and play a 10-game regular season schedule. The program continues to build under Gayle and the numbers are up. Returning standouts includes QB Leron McDowell, wide receiver Kason Tanner running back Luke Denton, defensive back Taylor Painter, defensive lineman Lane Bufulo, linebacker Cade Buratt and defensive back Preston LeBlanc.
All seven teams in the parish enter the summer with a focus on getting bigger, faster and stronger Football in Ascension looks to be strong again this fall; stay tuned as we get closer to the season.
Troy LeBoeuf covers sports for the Ascension Advocate. Reach him at troyleboeuf@ hotmail.com or ascension@ theadvocate.com.
JUNETEENTH
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Industries will present a music festival.
“We have to continue to remind ourselves that Freedom is not free. It comes at a cost and some give something they can only give once — their lives,” said Tamiko Francis Garrison. “Last month, we celebrated Memorial Day. During an address I gave at a Memorial Day program, I reminded everyone of the words of Thomas Paine, who wrote ‘Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must undergo the fatigues of supporting it.’
“We must remember during Juneteenth the folded flags handed to grieving families in the fight for freedom and that in the sacred grounds of this nation rest men and women who paid the full price for freedom. We must never forget.” For information about the Donaldsonville Juneteenth events, visit Eventbrite or email juneteenthdonaldsonville@gmail. com.
The musical lineup includes George Bell & Friends, Justin Garner, Red Tape Musiq, Michael Foster Project and Royal Essence.
James