Juneteenth
Donaldsonville’s 30th Juneteenth celebration starts at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, June 12, with an author talk at the Study Commons at the WAG Center 1221 Maginnis St., Donaldsonville. The talk will be by Daniel Brook, author of “The Accident of Color, a Story of Race.”
The book looks at 19th-century New Orleans and the cosmopolitan residents who elude the racial categories the rest of America takes for granted.
Federal funding would improve street safety, infrastructure
BY CHRISTOPHER CARTWRIGHT Staff writer
In the next few years, Donaldsonville residents might see improved street safety and infrastructure — including bike lanes, more sidewalks and better signage — as contractors work to create a report on the city’s existing infrastructure.
The project has been more than a year in the making. The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded the city $260,000 in 2023 through its Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program to create the transportation action plan.
McKim & Creed Project Manager
Dustin Mayard said residents can now provide input on the plan until June 15 through the city’s website.
“The public can go in and give their input on where they suggest certain safety improvements be made or where they see certain issues arising,” he said.
Town Hall meeting
Donaldsonville Mayor Leroy Sullivan briefly discussed the project at Lemann Memorial Center during a recent city town hall, which was attended by the city council, government officials and several dozen people.
“You name it, we want to make sure that we cover everything and make sure that our plan is good when we send it in.”
The grant comes from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which allocated $5 billion in funds nationwide for the program between 2022 and 2026 Mayard said the city also had to dedicate some money to the program. During the town hall, he stood by several maps placed on the edge of the room that covered potential changes and areas of focus. Attendees were
“That deals with bike paths, walking paths along the streets of the city stop signs,” he said about the grant.
St. Amant
Before the Civil War, these free, openly mixed-race urbanites enjoyed some rights of citizenship and the privileges of wealth and social status. After emancipation, as former slaves move to assert their rights, the Black-White binary that rules the rest of the nation begins to intrude.
Southern University Law Center will offer 1 free continuing legal education credit at the author talk. For information and
to register visit Eventbrite.com.
On Friday, June 13, the Juneteenth Committee, BASF, and the Greater Baton Rouge Area Food Bank will host a food distribution for the residents of Donaldsonville. It will be held at 10 a.m. at the Lemann Memorial Center in Donaldsonville. For information, email juneteenthdonaldsonville@gmail.com or visit @
St. Amant baseball has a strong tradition of winning: five state championships with the last title coming in 2004. The Gators are looking to Caleb Ricca for No. 6. Ricca takes over for Brandon Bravata, who had a record of 143-60 at St. Amant, including a runner-up finish in 2022. Ricca said he knew this was an opportunity
STAFF PHOTO BY HILARY SCHEINUK
Tommy Kocke, left, and Mimi Kocke look over
during
Town Hall meeting May 28 at the Lemann Memorial Center in Donaldsonville.
PHOTO BY WENDY LOUP
Jenay Davis, owner of Delicious Delights, stirs her wing sauce during Saturday’s 2025 Wing Fest in Donaldsonville’s Crescent Park. Davis won fourth place in the competition.
The following people were booked into the Ascension Parish Jail on May 1-29:
MAY 1
JONES, MARCUS W.: 1104
Peytavin St., Donaldsonville; 53; criminal trespass/ trespassing of real property, possession of firearm by person convicted of certain felonies, simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling, theft
$5,000 but less than $25,000, possession of firearm by person convicted of certain felonies
DEARMOND, MARC A.: 8500
Pertuis Road, St. Amant; 59; obstruction of justice/ all others, aggravated obstruction of a highway of commerce, hit-and-run driving, vehicle turning left at intersection
CARTER, LUTHER: 13511 La. 44, Gonzales; 27; domestic abuse battery-strangulation
TOBIAS, SIERRA: 13250 Roddy Road, Gonzales; 39; unlawful disruption of the operation of a healthcare facility, resisting an officer, disturbing the peace/drunkenness
WELLS, REBECCA JUANITA: 38517 Charleston Road, Prairieville; 28; careless operation, operating while intoxicated-fourth or more
CUMMINGS, CHASON JONAS: 186 Latino Drive, Donaldsonville; 37; probation violation parish, failure to appearbench warrant, fugitiveother Louisiana jurisdiction, battery of a dating partner
MAY 2
HOLLEY, MICAH DISHON: 131 S. Ezidore Ave., Gramercy; 23; failure to appear-bench warrant
AYCOCK, JOSEPH N.: 1977 Gamwich Road, Baton Rouge; 45; failure to appearbench warrant
SOLAR, JESSE JOHN: 35200 La. 1 N., Donaldsonville; 37; failure to appear-bench warrant
CHRISTMAS, ROBIN ANTOINETTE: 600 Woodale Blvd No. 254, Baton Rouge; 36; access device fraud $1,000 to $5,000, bank fraud, exploitation of the infirmed, identity theft
WILEY, BROOKLYN PAIGE: 14077 Tick’s Trace Road, Gonzales; 27; possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (methamphetamine), criminal trespass/all other violations of protective orders, breach of bail condition
DUNHAM JR., CLIFTON: 800 Riverview Complex, 207A, Donaldsonville; 24; tail lamps, driver must be licensed, two counts failure to appear-bench warrant
GAMMONS, ANGELA M.: 12120 Leonidas Drive, Baton Rouge; 38; parole violation, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, theft $1,000 but less than $5,000
MAY 3
BRITT, MONETTE DANI-
ELLE: 10474 Acy Road 16, St. Amant; 33; two counts failure to appear-bench warrant, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction
MOTICHEK, BROOKE NICOLE: 39342 St. Charles Ave Gonzales; 34; battery of a dating partner, criminal mischief/tampering with any property of another, simple criminal damage to property less than $1,000, entry on or remaining in places or on land after being forbidden
YATES-PURSER, TODD: 39123 La. 74, Gonzales; 32; no seat belt, security required, reckless operation, operating while intoxicated-first BRADFORD, JALISA DORETHA-JANNELLE: 317 Brooks Road, Natchez, Mississippi; 36; battery of a dating partner
JOHNSON, JEREMY: 40 Hillcrest Drive, Natchez, Mississippi; 39; battery of a dating partner
VICTOR, ASHANTI CHRISTOPHE: 5097 Hemingway Drive, Darrow; 45; domestic abuse battery
MOORE, DEANDRE TRE-
MAINE: 18195 Old Trail Drive, Prairieville; 19; reckless operation, underage operating while intoxicated
CARTER, SHANTANAE
REN’EE: 401 Barcelona Drive, Donaldsonville; 24; fugitiveother Louisiana jurisdiction, theft less than $1,000
MOSES, KENNETH LAMONT: 418 W. Bluebird St., Gonzales; 53; littering prohibited, disturbing the peace/drunkenness
MAISON, JACOBY: 7041/2 Third St., Donaldsonville; 25; no seat belt, operating vehicle while license is suspended, two counts failure to appear-bench warrant BABIN JR., JOSEPH D.: 52770 N. Cannonburg Road, White Castle; 61; operating vehicle while license is suspended, failure to appear-bench warrant
RILEY, BRIA J.: 1107 Mill St., Donaldsonville; 30; failure to appear-bench warrant SAULNY, JESSICA ARIELL: 12178 Canterbury Park Drive, Geismar; 34; two counts fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction
MAY 4
JOSEPH, SHAKEME: 163 Dville Village Circle, Donaldsonville; 25; failure to appear-bench warrant, simple assault
BONAVENTURE, TREVION MALIK: 10647 Northdale Drive, Baton Rouge; 24; disturbing the peace/language/disorderly conduct, entry on or remaining in places or on land after being forbidden
LOPEZ, ANTONIO: 8544 S; St. Landry, Gonzales; 55; possession of alcoholic beverages in motor vehicles, driver must be licensed, driving on roadway laned for traffic, operating while intoxicated-first
BEDNEY III, LON V.: 19608 Vicknair Road, Maurepas; 46; simple obstruction of a highway of commerce, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior operating while intoxicatedfourth or more BROUSSARD, BRADLEY REID: 17190 Grove Drive, Prairieville; 33; failure to appearbench warrant, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction CANNON JR., GEORGE MILTON: 43173 Cannon Road, Gonzales; 32; failure to appear-bench warrant, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, resisting an officer, indecent behavior with juveniles ROBERTSON, JASON RANDALL: 2089 W. Bordelon St. 2B, Gonzales; 18; resisting an officer, simple burglary (vehicle)
MAY 5
BARRAGAN, JOHON: 17867 Airline Highway, Prairieville; 18; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, underage operating while intoxicated DOWNEY JR., KELLY ALAN: 43701 Hodgeson Road, Prairieville; 23; failure to appearbench warrant
CONVERSE, TERRELL: 7775 La. 70 Lot 98, Donaldsonville; 33; failure to appear-bench warrant
SARVAUNT, CLINT: 14653 Stoneberg Ave., Baton Rouge; 55; possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance WALDROP, BRANDON MICHAEL: 14246 Woodlands
STAFF PHOTOS BY JAVIER GALLEGOS
The Griffin Girls perform in front of hundreds of audience members during the final day of dance camp at Dutchtown
Drive, Hammond; 24;
fraud, access device fraud
$5,000 to $25,000, identity theft, theft $5,000 but less than $25,000
DAVIDGE, BLAKE ALAN: 14246 Woodlands Drive, Hammond; 21; bank fraud, access device fraud $5,000 to $25,000, identity theft, theft $5,000 but less than $25,000
GOETZMAN, DARRYL W.: 45272 Oliver Road, St. Amant; 55; three counts failure to appear-bench warrant, fugitiveother Louisiana jurisdiction
JOHNSON, ASHLEY: 13170 Dutchtown Point Ave., Gonzales; 30; operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior
JONES, DEMONE DEQUINCY: 1623 Jill St., Donaldsonville; 26; four counts failure to appear-bench warrant, two counts fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction
JACKSON, RAINI DOMINIQUE: 1612 N. Coontrap Road, Gonzales; 21; illegal carry of weapons-crime or controlled dangerous substance, disturbing the peace/drunkenness, illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities/aggravated assault
MILLS, DERRICK CHRISTOPER: 121 Burns Drive, Donaldsonville; 46; surety four counts failure to appear-bench warrant, simple obstruction of a highway of commerce, possession of firearm by person convicted of certain felonies, illegal carrying of weapons
MAY 6
JEFFERSON, DETRON: 58721 Iron Farm Road, Plaquemine; 29; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, view outward or inward through windshield or windows-obscuring prohibited, operating vehicle while license is suspended, maximum speed limit
FIDDLING, STACEY LEE: 33504 La. 441, Holden; 33; injuring public records, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, simple battery
FERGUSON, JEREMY JERALD: 1202 Maximillian St., Baton Rouge; 34; contributing to the delinquency of juveniles; commission of any other felony
HAYES JR., DARRELL ANTHONY: 1432 W. Amber St., Gonzales; 41; state probation violation
JACKSON, MCKENSIE: 12379 Oak Fields Drive, Geismar; 17; battery of a dating partner
CANNON, DONALD WAYNE: 5675 Jackson Ave., Baton Rouge; 27; theft of $1,000 but less than $5,000
TURNER, TYKIRA TYKIRA: 9925 S. Riveroaks Drive, Baton Rouge; 20; theft of $1,000 but less than $5,000
CLARK, JOSHUA EZEKIEL: 704 N. Brown Ave., Gonzales; 35; criminal trespass/all other
MAY 7
SIMMONS, JENNIFER M.: 11254
E. Lanoux Road, Gonzales; 42; illegal use of 911 LOOPER, DANIEL: 7534 Trailview Drive, Gonzales; 73; conditions of probation/parole/ and suspension or diminution of sentence, failure to comply with provisions of supervised release
MARTIN, BASIL JOHN CLEVELAND: 6010 El Dorado St., New Orleans; 25; organized retail theft of $1,000 less than $5,000 , fugitive-other state jurisdiction
STRONG, DECHRIS: 7001 Bundy Road, New Orleans; 32; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction
SINGLETON, SHARNAE SHAR-
DANE: 118 Dville Village Circle C, Donaldsonville; 32; theft less than $1,000
MAY 8
MARTIN, BRANDI LEANN: 38340 Duplessis Road, Prairieville; 35; surety
WINFREY, DAIRIUS ABE: 908 Mulberry St., Donaldsonville; 28; simple criminal damage to property less than $1,000, obscenity, failure to appearbench warrant, criminal trespass/trespassing of real property, disturbing the peace/drunkenness
SCOTT, MERCEDES MANIKA: 1304 S. Lanoux Ave., Gonzales; 29; identity theft, monetary instrument abuse, bank fraud
SANCHEZ, HEATHER NICOLE: homeless; 39; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, breach of bail condition, four counts failure to appear-bench warrant, theft less than $1,000
MICHEL, KEVIN WAYNE: 14166 Old River Road, Maurepas; 52; probation violation
WILSON, DEANDRE MARQUISE: 619 E. Hamilton St., Gonzales; 24; two counts failure to appear-bench warrant
CLARK, JOSHUA EZEKIEL: 704 N. Brown Ave., Gonzales; 35; entry on or remaining in places or on land after being forbidden
GROS, BRADLEY NOLAN: 44346 Braud St., Sorrento; 35; failure to appear-bench warrant
JORDAN, BEAU: 40139 Anna Oak Ave., Gonzales; 29; domestic abuse battery
MAY 9
CHATMAN, KIREN JANTE: 210 Pine St., Donaldsonville; 32; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction
JONES, EUGENE D.: 8207 Main St., Sorrento; 59; simple battery, indecent behavior with juveniles
PAYNE, TAYLOR: 2230 S. King Ave., Lutcher; 29; simple criminal damage to property
SMITH, CARLAS: 1050 N. Foster Drive, Baton Rouge; 45; failure to appear-bench warrant
DEPA, ANTHONY JOSEPH: 122 Sheridan Drive; 48; hold for other agency, three counts cyberstalking, two counts, violations of protective orders
HIDALGO, ISAAC ANTHONY: 40245 Bordeaux St., Prairieville; 22; possession of firearm by person convicted of certain felonies, illegal carry of weapons-crime or controlled dangerous substance, handling of machine guns unlawful, manufacture/distribution/possession with the intent to distribute Schedule I controlled dangerous substance, prohibited acts-drug paraphernalia, distribution/ possession with the intent to distribute marijuana or synthetic cannabinoids RICHARDSON, GARY: address unavailable; 18; aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities, second degree murder/attempt KIRK, JESSICA GREER: 43017 Weber City Road, Gonzales; 52; failure to appear-bench warrant CARTER, DEANNA RAE: 2625 Country Club Road, Lake Charles; 33; theft of $1,000 but less than $5,000
MAY 10
DUPONT, KATHERINE LEA: 41443 Gressett Road, Prairieville; 39; theft less than $1 000 two counts violations of protective orders DENNISON, D’ONTAE: 5155 Salinger Drive, Darrow; 23; simple criminal damage to property less than $1,000, criminal trespass/trespassing of real property BELL, JOHNNY LEE: 1211 St Vincent St., Donaldsonville; 53; aggravated battery JONES, ANITA BELL: 1211 St Vincent St., Donaldsonville; 62; aggravated assault with a firearm LEBLANC, MELODY L.: 1207 St. Vincent St., Donaldsonville; 45; aggravated battery STORMS, GREGORY C.: 42410 Troxclair Lane, Gonzales; 67; domestic abuse battery
LEWIS, DONALD R.: 111 Devillier Road, Broussard; 59; two counts failure to appearbench warrant, theft less
than $1,000
FOLSE, MEGAN ELIZABETH:
2008 E. Parlange St.; 39; disturbing the peace/language/ disorderly conduct, simple criminal damage to property less than $1,000, obscenity simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling
MAY 11
GUIDRY, BRYANT TERRELL: 37088 Geismar Road, Geismar; 40; illegal possession of stolen things over $25,000
BOURGEOIS, CAMERON
JOSEPH: 14249 Garcon Road, Gonzales; 20; no proof of motorcycle endorsement, running a red light with accident, general speed law, vehicles improperly licensed, reckless operation, aggravated flight from an officer
RUCKER, TEDRICK: 42297
Marblestone Ave., Prairieville; 42; expired motor vehicle inspection, maximum speed limit, operating while intoxicated-first
DICKERSON, KEITH: 39453 Park Oak Ave., Prairieville; 43; telephone communications/ improper language/ harassment, domestic abuse battery
ALEXANDER JR., JOSEPH: 120 Oakridge Ave. Apt. A, Donaldsonville; 39; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, sale/ distribution/or possession of legend drug without prescription, possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (methamphetamine), driver must be licensed, no seat belt
PROCELL, JOHN DAVID: 40501 Nicholls Melancon Road 33, Prairieville; 46; simple battery, disturbing the peace/ violent and tumultuous manner/disorderly conduct, resisting an officer
MAY 12
ISSAKA, IBRAHIM: 5222 Mercury Drive, Darrow; 34; domestic abuse battery-child endangerment
COLLINS SR., BRIAN DEWAYNE: 11999 Longridge Ave. 1108, Baton Rouge; 38; domestic abuse battery-child endangerment
TORRES, MACARIA: 8370 S St. Landry Ave. 12, Gonzales; 39; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, failure to appearbench warrant, theft less than $1,000
GIBBS, JANICE ANN: 12325
Laurel Ridge Road, St. Amant; 39; failure to appear-bench warrant
MAY 13
BROWN JR., CHARLES LEE: 17085 Charlie Brown Road, Prairieville; 54; parole violation
SMITH, ROBERT TIMOTHY: 42553 La. 42 8, Prairieville; 60; probation violation
BABIN, TREGG ANTHONY: 42432 Weber City Road A, Gonzales; 57; parole violation, exploitation of the infirmed, theft of $1,000 but less than $5,000
HERNANDEZ, ARMANDO EMMANUEL: 155 Primrose Drive, Thibodaux; 34; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction
SCOTT, JEROME: 38284 Charleston Road, Prairieville; 46; money laundering; transactions involving proceeds of criminal activity, prohibited acts-drug paraphernalia
TRICHE, ANDRE MICHAEL: 38545 East Court, Prairieville; 32; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction
HILL, JEFFERY TODD: 6285 Tezcuco Court, Gonzales; 55; domestic abuse battery
ZHAO, DAMING: 6501 Ranchester Drive, Houston; 33; manufacture/distribution/ possession with the intent to distribute Schedule I controlled dangerous substance, manufacture/distribution/ possession with the intent to distribute Schedule I controlled dangerous substance, criminal conspiracy, money laundering $20,000 to $100,000
CHEN, WEI BIN: 15516 Parry Park Drive, Fontana, California; 34; distribution/possession with the intent to distrib-
ute marijuana or synthetic cannabinoids, manufacture/ distribution/possession with the intent to distribute Schedule I controlled dangerous substance, criminal conspiracy, money laundering $20,000 to $100,000
CHEN, LIKE: 1004 S. Va, Alhambra, California; 34; distribution/possession with the intent to distribute marijuana or synthetic cannabinoids, manufacture/distribution/ possession with the intent to distribute Schedule I controlled dangerous substance, criminal conspiracy, money laundering $20,000 to $100,000
WILLIAMS, SIERRA LUTICIA: 37572 Grand Oak Drive, Prairieville; 40; aggravated battery
MAY 14
SCOTT, JAIME LYNN: 10048 Cloudland Drive, Baton Rouge; 39; fugitive-other state jurisdiction
ENGLAND, JOSHUA: 14086 Airline Highway, Apt. 1118, Gonzales; 33; pornography involving juveniles
LEBLANC, REGINALD D,: 622 S. Oleana Drive, Gonzales; 46; domestic abuse battery, domestic abuse batterystrangulation PRICE, KELLY LEE ANN: 37117 Anderson Road, No. 1, Geismar; 42; probation violation FRANZ, KYLE WILLIAM: 115 Ella Hill Road, Maurice; 41; violations of protective orders
LETULLE, ADAM MICHAEL: 45013 Lake Martin Road, St. Amant; 44; second-degree battery
MAY 15
OLIVER, LACEY: 1025 N. Coolidge Ave., Gonzales; 39; prohibited acts-drug paraphernalia, possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance, state probation violation
KNIGHTEN, ANTHONY: 6725 Oakside Drive, Baton Rouge; 40; failure to appear-bench warrant
MCZEAL, SEANWITT ROYACE: 158 Freetown Lane, Belle Rose; 57; five counts failure to appear-bench warrant, theft less than $1,000, simple burglary, domestic abuse aggravated assault, domestic abuse battery-child endangerment, domestic abuse aggravated assault-child endangerment
DAVIS, WILLIAM GARRETT: 42247 La. 931, Gonzales; 32; two counts failure to appearbench warrant, illegal possession of stolen things over $25,000
BRADLEY, COURTNEY LEANN: 41447 Churchpoint Road, Gonzales; 36; possession of alcoholic beverages in motor vehicles, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior careless operation, operating while intoxicated-second
SAULNY, ENDYA NYKIA: 12178 Canterbury Park Drive, Geismar; 32; simple battery
PEGG, JERRY: 3476 N. Sherwood Forest Drive, Baton Rouge; 38; aggravated battery
BENNETT, HOWARD M.: 18427 Kay Road, Prairieville; 69; breach of bail condition, failure to appear-bench warrant, operation of official inspection stations, fugitiveother Louisiana jurisdiction, reckless operation, simple obstruction of a highway of commerce, operation of official inspection stations, vehicles without required equipment or in unsafe condition, violations of registration provisions, vehicle not registered, owner to secure registration, security required, operating vehicle with suspended license-no license issued, careless operation, hit-and-run driving, operating while intoxicated-third
GARCIA, VERONICO SEVILLA: 4206 Coontrap Road 14, Gonzales; 43; two counts failure to appear-bench warrant
ROBERTSON, GARY LEE: 13170 Dutchtown Point Ave., Gonzales; 42; two counts failure to appear-bench warrant
MAY 16
JENKINS, MARK ANTOINE: 4414 Heath Drive, Baker; 46; operating vehicle while license is suspended, tail lamps, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction
COLEMAN, CHRISTIAN: 5340 Lanier Drive Court., Baton Rouge; 35; illegal carrying of weapons
DEBATE, JORDAN S.: 44239 Calvin Templet Road, St. Amant; 33; state probation violation
BERZAS, MICHAEL: 18014 Autumn View Drive, Prairieville; 54; probation violation, failure to appear-bench warrant
PLEASANT, JARDELL JAMAL: 900 Walton St., Donaldsonville; 32; two counts seconddegree murder, criminal conspiracy
CAYETTE, JALEN SAMUEL: 115 Burns Drive, Donaldsonville; 24; two counts fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction
LEE, SHAHEEM TYRONE: 8179 Treeline Drive, Gonzales; 17; simple battery, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling CRUZ GOMEZ, ALFREDO: 9817 W. Okeechobee Drive, Miami; 36; illegal possession of sto-
to
MORGADO FERNANDEZ, KEYRA: 17130 Keith Harrow Blvd., Houston; 29; resisting an officer, illegal possession of stolen things
$1,000 to $5,000, organized retail theft
$1,000 less than $5,000
MAY 17
JOHNSON, TYJALON: address unknown; 18; entry on or remaining in places or on land after being forbidden, disturbing the peace/language/ disorderly conduct
JACKSON, REAGEN DIONNE: 1970 Besson Lane, St. Gabriel; 18; disturbing the peace/violent and tumultuous manner/ disorderly conduct
KELLER, CARMEN LASHAY: 609 St. Francis Parkway, Gonzales; 19; disturbing the peace/ violent and tumultuous manner/disorderly conduct
JOHNSON, DWAYNE JAVON: 205 Evangeline Ext., Donaldsonville; 26; failure to appearbench warrant
BROMLEY, ASHLEY KEETON: 44444 Melancon St. 45, Sorrento; 37; two counts hold for other agency, fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, resisting an officer, theft less than $1,000, obstruction of justice/ all others, theft of a motor vehicle
$5,000 to $25,000, issuing worthless checks $5,000 to $25,000
NABOR, ANDREA BREONE: 3137 S. Darla Ave., Unit C, Gonzales; 34; failure to appearbench warrant
KLEINPETER, CORY RYAN: 11374 Buckingham Ave., 47; operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior careless operation, operating while intoxicatedsecond
PHILLIP, CHRISTOPHER MI-
CHAEL: 158 Peterville Lane, Belle Rose; 36; entry on or remaining in places or on land after being forbidden
MAY 18
BARDELES, JOSE MINOR: 651 Monet Drive, No. 103, Baton Rouge; 20; resisting an officer, aggravated seconddegree battery
LANDRY, KERON D.: 1934 W Worthey Road, Gonzales; 38; fugitive-other Louisiana jurisdiction, parole violation, simple criminal damage to property less than $1,000, criminal trespass/all other domestic abuse battery
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Continued from page 1G
encouraged to add stickers to areas they think needed sidewalks speed control, lighting, bike lanes or other improvements
The project is only at the first stage. Mayard estimates the city will submit the final report in a few months; after that, the city plans to apply for a separate grant to implement some of the proposed changes
Resident feedback until June 15
For residents who couldn’t attend the meeting, the city has a map of 50 suggestions on its website with similar proposals. Some suggestions include sidewalks and street lighting on Barcelona Drive to bike lanes downtown along Mississippi Street.
At the meeting, Mayard said the group analyzed more than 990 incidents over five years, identifying city patterns.
“We analyze all the existing
infrastructure with the city, we analyze all the existing policies related to transportation and pedestrian safety, as well as like bicycle safety, and then we also analyzed crash data from the previous 5 years,” he said. “ And so, what we’re going to do with all this data is compile it into a big report that we then submit to the federal government.”
Residents can add to the online map themselves by selecting improvements or problems, such as excessive speeding, and clicking on areas of town.
custom-made hats and other accessories during the 2025 Wing Fest at Donaldsonville’s Crescent Park.
WINGS
Continued from page 1G
owner of Virgie’s Wreaths, set up canopies in the park to sell their desserts and wreaths
Landry said Donaldsonville is growing in business and community
“Events and festivals like this one are getting a lot bigger and will continue to get bigger with all of the industrial developments coming to the area,” Landry said. “These events give families in the community a place to go.”
River Parishes Community College’s booth at the park provided information about the upcoming expansion due to recent business deals in Ascension Parish, one of which includes Hyundai Steel Company’s $5.8 billion investment to build a steel plant in Donaldsonville. The deal also includes a partnership with RPCC to develop a workforce training center for students.
“We came out today to show the community that we are here,” RPCC Director of Recruitment Malik Smith said. “We have big plans for citizens and students in 2027 and now is the time to pursue and recruit students.
“There are not a lot of partnerships on the west bank here and they are often forgotten about. RPCC wants to build relationships and give back to the residents here.”
Having more cooperation and partnerships from local businesses in Ascension Parish is one of the goals for Donaldsonville, according to Ascension Parish Constable Jeffrey Henry Henry, who is also president of the Donaldsonville Area Chamber of Commerce, said events like Wing Fest are important for the community
Donaldsonville Area Chamber of Commerce President Jeffrey Henry, right, and his wife, Demetria, won third place in the competition.
River Parish Community College Director of Recruitment Malik Smith, left, and Amy Tranchina, RPCC’s Community and Alumni Relations coordinator, pass out information at the festival.
“Events like this bring us close together and spread awareness and help people know Donaldsonville has a lot to offer,” Henry said.
Henry and his wife, Demetria, participated in the wing competition, winning third place.
“When Gonzales has an event, everybody supports it,” Henry said. “We need more people in the business community to come and support events in Donaldsonville in the same way they do in Gonzales.”
Deverle Moll, owner of Bougee Diva, sold her custom-designed
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he could not pass up.
“This is such an attractive job; being from Ascension Parish, everyone knows about St. Amant baseball. The support is there from the administration, staff and the students. The community is a huge supporter as well,” said Ricca, a graduate of Dutchtown High, where he excelled in baseball. He went on to play at Northwestern in Natchitoches for three years, earning all-conference honors. He was drafted by the Seattle Mariners, and after two years, he knew what he wanted to do.
“I had the opportunity to coach at East Ascension where coach Kade Keowen and Principal Lauren Avery gave me my first opportunity to teach and coach,” he said
“I moved to Dutchtown in my third year with a big thanks to Principal Barry Whittington and coach Chris Schexnaydre. I was given responsibilities and have learned so much from these people,” said Ricca.
Ricca understands the tradition at St. Amant and does not take it lightly
“The great coaches that have led this program like Bob Lemons, Troy Templet and Brandon Bravata plus others have paved the way for this program to be great,” he said. “There is a strong foundation to be build upon and challenge for a state championship. They have been through the highs and the lows, all of this will help us with our maturity and how to respond on and off the field.”
Ricca is also married to a coach: Toni Ricca works across town at East Ascension, where she leads the softball team.
“Not many people can say that their significant other works in the same field/role,” Caleb Ricca said of his wife.
“We bounce ideas off each other and talk the game, how we can better our programs. I am thankful for her support; our focus will always be our family The support we receive from our respective schools makes our job easy,” said Ricca.
St. Amant returns a core group
of talent from a team that went 21-14 overall and lost to eventual state champion Sam Houston in the playoffs.
“The group returning understands what it takes to compete, prepare and lead. They have been through the battles of baseball at the highest level in the state,” Ricca said. “Our staff will build relationships with these young men. Our plan is to hit the weights with the goal of getting bigger, faster and stronger.”
Ricca will have a strong staff with veteran coaches Mike Toups and Ryan Ricca. Other returning coaches include Kolby Sheet and Skylar Enlow
“I am excited to work with this staff, these are guys that I trust and played for, a good mix of guys,” he said
When asked about his philosophy, Ricca had a strong message: “I plan to use the platform of sports to not only develop skilled athletes, but responsible, respectful and resilient young men who will be equipped for the challenges of life. If we have these traits, that will spill into the baseball side. We have talented players, and our staff looks forward to getting to work with them.
“Our biggest challenge is to take what you learned and lead, build chemistry and be great teammates. My job is to instill a work ethic that these players will take into the real world Let’s not just rely on our experiences in the past, we plan to build on it.”
Troy LeBoeuf covers sports for the Ascension Advocate. He can be reached at troyleboeuf@hotmail. com or ascension@theadvocate. com or on Twitter @Troyleboeuf.
Community news report
The All-Metro girls golf for 2025 was announced. The team members are selected by area coaches.
Golfers selected from the region include Evelynn Artieta, of
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DonaldsonvilleJuneteenth on Facebook or Instagram.
On Saturday, June 14, the mayor, committee, city and numerous sponsors host the 30th annual Juneteenth Music Festival. Bring chairs, blankets, umbrella and spending money to listen to the sounds of six South Louisiana bands, learn about the Juneteenth history, eat, shop and gather information from over 30 vendors. The event is rain or shine.
The lineup includes: n 11 a.m.: Opening ceremony n 11:15am – noon: George Bell & Friends, of Baton Rouge
n Noon: Ceremony honoring the oldest Black businesses, including Donaldsonville Marble and Granite, which is 150 years old.
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Geaux owner Bonnie Landry, left, and Virgie Dugas, owner of Virgie’s Wreaths, were vendors at the festival.
bedazzled hats and “arm candy” bracelets.
“This event is great exposure for small businesses,” Moll said. “I’m a lifetime St. James resident, but I know and love a lot of people here in Donaldsonville.” Coming up in Donaldsonville is the 30th annual Juneteenth celebration on June 14 in Louisiana Square. The event will feature live music, dancers and more than 30 vendors. On the first Saturday of every month, the Donaldsonville Farmers Market is held from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Louisiana Square.
n 12:30 p.m. — 1:30 p.m.: Total Control Band, of New Roads n 1:30 p.m. – 2 p.m.: Juneteenth queens n 2 p.m.- 3 p.m.: Esco Soul Music, of Baton Rouge
n 3 p.m. — 3:30 p.m.: RRAAMS (African drum and dance), of New Orleans n 3:30 p.m. — 4:30 p.m.: Red Tape Musiq, of Gonzales n 4:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.: Casa Samba (Afro-Caribbean drum and dance), New Orleans
n 5 p.m.: Second line for Juneteenth queens and sponsors
n 5 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Michael Foster Project, of Baton Rouge
n 6:30 p.m. — 7:30 p.m.: Royal Essence, of New Orleans For information about the Donaldsonville Juneteenth events, visit Eventbrite; Facebook and Instagram @DonaldsonvilleJuneteenth; or contact them via email at JuneteenthDonaldsonville@ gmail.com.
Basketball camp open Camp Andrews Basketball Fundamentals Training Camp will be held be held weekly through the end of July at te Gonzales Middle School Gym, 1502 W. Orice Roth St., Spots are limited for boys and girls ages 4-16. Registration is
Walker, who placed fourth at Division I tourney; Bayleigh Waldrep, of Ascension Christian, whose nine-hole mark of 40.0 led Lions; and Ella Nugent, of Zachary, who finished ninth at the Metro tournament.
$40 for a single session/per day and $100 for three days/per week. Ages 4-9 meet at 4 p.m. and ages 10-16 meet at 5:10 p.m.
An Open Gym is available every Monday for $15 an athlete. Ages 8-12 are at 4 p.m. and ages 13-16 are at 5:30 p.m. RSVP to Dwayne Andrews at (225) 518-7940. Make payments by cash, check or Cash App (CAMPANDREWS1).
Children’s pageant is Sunday
The Gonzales Jambalaya Children’s Pageant is back on June 15 at the JFA Building. All information and forms are at www.jambalayafestival.net.
The United Community Bank Food Drive runs through June 13. Drop off donations at any UCB location.
Ascension Pride Festival Ascension Parish Pride Fest’s inaugural event set for June 21 at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center It kicks off at 12:30 p.m. Activities include a dog fashion show at 12:45 p.m. and drag story times at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Drag shows will be at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. and a dance party at 3:30 p.m.
From noon to 7 p.m., local vendors, community resources, Kandi making, build and take Legos, wedding and cat and dog adoption will take place.
Cocktail Trail open
The Louisiana Sweet Spot Cocktail Trail is open through July 31 at participating bars and restaurants.
Order a Sweet Spot Cocktail, receive a stamp on your trail passport, collect eight stamps and turn in your passport in for a chance to win prizes.
Passports are available at the Ascension Tourism office in Sorrento, at participating businesses or visit visitlasweetspot.com/ cocktailtrail.
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
STAFF FILE PHOTO BY HILARY SCHEINUK Northwestern State’s Caleb Ricca throws to first base after tagging LSU designated hitter Beau Jordan out May 15, 2018, at LSU’s Alex Box Stadium in Baton Rouge.
STAFF PHOTO BY HILARY SCHEINUK
Residents look over renderings during a Town Hall meeting May 28 at the Lemann Memorial Center in Donaldsonville.
PHOTOS BY WENDY LOUP
Deverle Moll, owner of Bougee Diva, sells her
