Arendering of the $12 billion datacenter proposed for West FelicianaParish. Parishofficials areset to vote on the rezoning for theproject at their Jan. 6 meeting.Parish President KennyHavardsaid the facility will be ‘life-changing’ for the region.
‘Lifechanging’ $12B data center plannedin West Feliciana
BY TIMOTHY BOONE
Business editor
A$12 billion artificial intelligence datacenter that will create “several hundred”permanent jobs is coming to West Feliciana Parish, accordingto Parish President Kenny Havard.
“This is life-changing for the region,” Havard said. “A rising tide lifts all boats.” West Feliciana officials are settovoteonplans for the Hut 8AIdata center at theirJan.6 meeting. According to documents being circulated in West Feliciana, Hut 8plans to build the data center on a611-acre parcel off La. Highway964 on the southern end of the parish. The first phase would consist of two 450,000- square-footbuildings that would house data serversand create thousands of direct and indirect construction jobs. Morethan 50 permanentjobs would be created fornetwork and server technicians and maintenance staff. Plans are to complete the first building by the end of 2025 and the second before theend of 2026. Future phases could triple the size of the operations and could lead to the constructionofa power plant to meet the utility needsofthe operation,Havard said.
Hut 8operates Bitcoin miningfacilitiesand data centers at 20 sites acrossthe U.S. and Canada. The company is named after the building where pioneering computer scientist Alan Turing created the machines that cracked the Enigma code during World WarII. This enabled the Alliestointercept messagesfrom the Germans and caused U.S. and British forces to win battles.
Talk of alarge scale data center hasbeen swirling around West Felicianafor more than ayear.In November2023, Havard announced theparishhad sold107-acre site in its industrial parkfor $500,000 forabusiness that would be atremendous boost for the local economy Last month, while parish officials were discussing building arodeo arena in the West Feliciana sports park, Havard said he wanted to wait “until
ä See DATA CENTER, page 2G
Clintoncelebrates ASouthernChristmas
BY MELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Contributing writer
With the crowd waiting in anticipation and a brief countdown, the lights were turned on Dec. 6atthe East FelicianaParish Courthouse kicking off ASouthern Christmas in Clinton celebration. Aprayer was said beforehand and thehymn“Silent Night”was sung. This year’stree, theother decorations and the overall experience prompted avoice in the crowd to say “it’s like aHallmark Christmas movie.”The decorations were provided by theEast Feliciana Police
Jury Even theweather cooperated, cold but dry,and young and old alike were dressed warmly as they enjoyed the Christmas festivities.
Santa was on hand across the street to listen to kids’ requests and the Grinch was spotted more than once.
WhiteLight ChristmasShoppingset in Jackson
BY MELINDARAWLSHOWELL
Contributing writer
Jackson’sWhite LightChristmas Shopping festivities will be held from 9a.m. to 7p.m. Dec. 14 primarilyinand near the old Pipes-McKowen buildingonCharter Street in the historic downtown area. Inviting all to come, event coordinator Ginger Goudeaysaid it promises to be “a jolly event”ina charming,small-town setting. Agreat variety of itemssuit-
able for Christmas gifts and more will be offered by vendors along with the addition of several food trucks, she said. The Pipes-McKowen building will house many of the vendors inside. More vendors will be outside in the front.
The building, built circa 1904, was for many years the larger of thetwo displaybuildingswhere theJackson Assembly, ahistoric preservation organization, held its annual Antiques Show and Sale. With thedemise of that event,
thebuildingwas purchased in 2021 by Jackson native Leroy Harvey. It was appropriately refurbished, in keeping with the building’s character andmodernized by February2023, according to aspokesperson. It was also during that time that it was connected by apassageway to theOld CentenaryInn, another Harvey property Santawill make an appearance at OldCentenary Innfrom 10 a.m. until noon and later in the day, from 5p.m. until, Santa will
Send apostcard, help aclass
Leila Pitchford AROUND THE FELICIANAS
AFacebook updatesaid Regan Tutor’sclass at West Feliciana MiddleSchool is closinginonits postcard goals. Aphoto onlineshowed thatIdaho, Arizona, Nebraska, Indiana, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Delaware andRhode Island arestill missing.
Doyou have afriend or family member who can help? Please mail postcardstoWest Feliciana Middle School,ATTN: Ms. Tutor,POBox 690, SaintFrancisville, LA 70775
The unit is called “Across the Miles.”The studentsare studying maps, landmarks,weather and more across the U.S.
Live Nativity in Jackson Jackson United Methodist church will have aLive Nativity at 6:30 p.m.,Wednesday,Dec. 18. The nativity will be on the church lawn. The public is invited. Reneworjoinhistoricalsociety The West FelicianaHistorical SocietyMuseum reminds current and future members that all membership fees are due by Dec. 31. Stop by or call (225) 635-6330 to get on themember list.This year,all
ä See AROUND,
also visit the CottonFields Coffee Shop, Goudeau said. Five is just about the timethe whitelights will comeonand jointhe other colorful Christmasdecorations in thehistoric little town, she said.
The Blue Frog, which is just across the street, and Southern BelleAntiques, which is just down thestreet, willalsobeopenthe same hours as thespecial event, extendingthe Christmasshopping opportunities there.
Goudeau encouraged visitors to visit all the shops and eateries
while in town. Someofthe itemsthat vendors will be offering areartwork, jewelry,ornaments from Eastern Europe, soaps, wooden birdhouses andcrosses,flower bulbs, pottery, antiques, cookies, embroidered items, Christmasitems and more, Godeau said. The eventissponsoredbythe JacksonTourism Enhancement Committee under the Town of Jackson’sHistoricDistrictCommission. For more information, call(225) 933-4911.
PROVIDED PHOTO
Regan Tutor’sclass at West Feliciana Middle School is very close to meetingits goal on itspostcard project.
Carmen and SalTenni, of Clinton, with granddaughter Chloe Bruceatthe tree lighting Dec.6 in Clinton.
PHOTOSBYMELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Oneofthe stops for free hot chocolate, this one provided by RKM
Jacksonmarshal speaks to town business owners
BY MELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Contributing writer
Jackson Marshal Mitch Harrell alongwithother lawenforcement officials met withlocal businesses Nov.13.
Harrellasked businesses“what canwedobetter” to serve businesses.
Harrell said he plans to hold similar meetings once ayear.He opened the meeting by welcoming all, and he recognized East FelicianaSheriff Jeff Travisand representatives from theDistrict Attorney’sOffice –Assistant District Attorneys Bruce Dodd and KailynAlleman.
Harrell said even though “the parish doesn’thave alot of money” that his officeand the sheriff’s
DATA CENTER
Continued from page1G
department have a“very good relationship…work well together.”
Harrell read alist of changes, improvements andaccomplishments thathave takenplace since he becamemarshal.
Travis agreed that his department andthe marshal’shad agood
the projectcomes through” beforecommitting to funding.
“I can finally get this off my chest,” he said. Data centers are airport-sized buildings filled with computer servers andotherITinfrastructure thatserve as afacilityfor companies to store, process and send outdata. In addition to storage and cloud services, the powerful facilities can supportthings like AI machine learning,social media, large eCommerce purchases,real-time map services and evencryptocurrency mining. Companieslike Meta,Amazon and Microsoft are spending hundreds of billions of dollars to construct these processing hubs across the U.S. andoverseas. Datacenters areacritical part of the AI boom thatisrapidly transforming the global tech industry Lastweek, Meta,the parent company of Facebookand Instagram, announcedit would spend $10 billion to build adatacenter in northeast Louisiana.
Specialized AI data centers, sometimes called “AIfactories,” providethe infrastructuretohelp train AI systems andalgorithms and deliver insights on them. This training requires huge amounts of data processing power Contributing writer James Minton contributed to this report.
Email Timothy Boone at tboone@ theadvocate.com.
AROUND
Continued from page1G
members will receive anew car decal showing support for the group West FelicianaHospitalcelebratesholiday West Feliciana Hospital’sholiday celebrationcontinues through Dec. 31 with its drive-thru MagicalLights display Market Christmasreception
The St. Francisville Farmers Marketis held Thursdays from 9a.m. to 1p.m. Dec. 19 is the Christmas reception.Refreshments will be available as well as achance to shop for last minute gifts and holiday food. Santa will be on hand for photos. Save thedate
n The 20th annual FelicianaFamily and FriendsMardi Gras ParadeinJan. 25 in downtown Clinton. Mardi Gras in theCountry will line up at East FelicianaMiddle School, 10410 Plank Road, Clinton. Gates openat7 a.m.,Lineup startsat11a.m., and the parade rolls at noon. Visit www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064329323928 for contact information.
n The 90th annual 2025 LSUAgCenter State Livestock Show will beFeb.11-18 at Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales.
n The Azalea Polo Classic in St. Francisville will be at 2p.m., April 6.
n Spring Angola Rodeo Tickets are on sale. The event is April 26-27. Gates will openat8a.m., and the rodeo will start at 2p.m. All tickets are $20 per person. Ages 2and under are free if they sit ina lap. No refunds or exchanges allowed.Call(225) 655-2030 or (225) 655-2607 between 8a.m. and4p.m.orvisit https://0f472fe.netsolhost. com/tickets/.
n TheFeliciana Wildflower Festival will beJune 7and the group is seeking applications for sponsors, vendors and guest speakers.Visit www.facebook.com/FelicianaWildflowerProject for information.
n The Day the WarStopped is planned for June 7.
Send news and events for Eastand West Feliciana parishes to extra@theadvocate com by noon Friday or call (225) 388-0731.
Assistants from the District Attorney’s Office, Kailyn Alleman, left, and Bruce Dodd speak at arecent meeting with businesses.
relationshipand would continue to do so. Travis said “the numbers are up” showing the improvement in law enforcement in Jackson.
Harrell said since hisarrival, some businesses have already donated needed supplies for the police units, the office and have
shown communitysupport.Har-
rell said he wants to hear from residents if they have “better ideas” and can be creativeindealingwith law enforcement in today’sworld.
He asked businesses to supply information such as the layout of their buildings in case of an incident and explained the usefulness of security cameras.
Businessman Wesley Giddens asked about town ordinances that might pertain to his businesses and also asked if there was something he coulddotoworkwiththe town more closely.Helearned that town ordinances are available online.
Alleman and Dodd talked about some of the best ways to help collect needed evidence and shared resources available to aid businesses.
treats included hot chocolate and cookies at the nearby sheriff’s office and
Barbara and StevenBoyd, of Clinton, dressed up for the festivities.
The Grinch with gifts in the trunk of aclassic carDec. 6atthe Clinton Christmas celebration.
PHOTOSBYMELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Shops along St. Helena Street in Clinton decorated and readytoreceivethe Clinton SouthernChristmas shoppers
The East Feliciana Courthouse is awash in red and green Dec. 6during a celebration in downtown Clinton.
DEMOCRAT
PROVIDED
Arendering of the $12 billion datacenter proposed for West FelicianaParish. Parishofficials areset to vote on the rezoning for theproject at their Jan. 6 meeting.Parish President KennyHavardsaid the facility will be ‘life-changing’ for the region.
‘Lifechanging’ $12B data center plannedin West Feliciana
BY TIMOTHY BOONE
Business editor
A$12 billion artificial intelligence datacenter that will create “several hundred”permanent jobs is coming to West Feliciana Parish, accordingto Parish President Kenny Havard.
“This is life-changing for the region,” Havard said. “A rising tide lifts all boats.”
West Feliciana officials are settovoteonplans for the Hut 8AIdata center at theirJan.6 meeting. According to documents being circulated in West Feliciana, Hut 8plans to build the data center on a611-acre parcel off La. Highway964 on the southern end of the parish. The first phase would consist of two 450,000- square-footbuildings that would house data serversand create thousands of direct and indirect construction jobs. Morethan 50 permanentjobs would be created fornetwork and server technicians and maintenance staff. Plans are to complete the first building by the end of 2025 and the second before theend of 2026.
Future phases could triple the size of the operations and could lead to the constructionofa power plant to meet the utility needsofthe operation,Havard said.
Hut 8operates Bitcoin miningfacilitiesand data centers at 20 sites acrossthe U.S. and Canada. The company is named after the building where pioneering computer scientist Alan Turing created the machines that cracked the Enigma code during World WarII. This enabled the Alliestointercept messagesfrom the Germans and caused U.S. and British forces to win battles.
Talk of alarge scale data center hasbeen swirling around West Felicianafor more than ayear.In November2023, Havard announced theparishhad sold107-acre site in its industrial parkfor $500,000 forabusiness that would be atremendous boost for the local economy Last month, while parish officials were discussing building arodeo arena in the West Feliciana sports park, Havard said he wanted to wait “until
ä See DATA CENTER, page 2G
Clintoncelebrates ASouthernChristmas
BY MELINDARAWLS HOWELL Contributing writer
With the crowd waiting in anticipation and a brief countdown, the lights were turned on Dec. 6atthe East FelicianaParish Courthouse kicking off ASouthern Christmas in Clinton celebration. Aprayer was said beforehand and thehymn“Silent Night”was sung.
This year’stree, theother decorations and the overall experience prompted avoice in the crowd to say “it’s like aHallmark Christmas movie.”The decorations were provided by theEast Feliciana Police
Jury Even theweather cooperated, cold but dry,and young and old alike were dressed warmly as they enjoyed the Christmas festivities.
Santa was on hand across the street to listen to kids’ requests and the Grinch was spotted more than once.
WhiteLight ChristmasShoppingset in Jackson
BY MELINDARAWLSHOWELL
Contributing writer
Jackson’sWhite LightChristmas Shopping festivities will be held from 9a.m. to 7p.m. Dec. 14 primarilyinand near the old Pipes-McKowen buildingonCharter Street in the historic downtown area. Inviting all to come, event coordinator Ginger Goudeaysaid it promises to be “a jolly event”ina charming,small-town setting. Agreat variety of itemssuit-
able for Christmas gifts and more will be offered by vendors along with the addition of several food trucks, she said. The Pipes-McKowen building will house many of the vendors inside. More vendors will be outside in the front. The building, built circa 1904, was for many years the larger of thetwo displaybuildingswhere theJackson Assembly, ahistoric preservation organization, held its annual Antiques Show and Sale. With thedemise of that event,
thebuildingwas purchased in 2021 by Jackson native Leroy Harvey. It was appropriately refurbished, in keeping with the building’s character andmodernized by February2023, according to aspokesperson. It was also during that time that it was connected by apassageway to theOld CentenaryInn, another Harvey property Santawill make an appearance at OldCentenary Innfrom 10 a.m. until noon and later in the day, from 5p.m. until, Santa will
also visit the CottonFields Coffee Shop, Goudeau said. Five is just about the timethe whitelights will comeonand jointhe other colorful Christmasdecorations in thehistoric little town, she said.
The Blue Frog, which is just across the street, and Southern BelleAntiques, which is just down thestreet, willalsobeopenthe same hours as thespecial event, extendingthe Christmasshopping opportunities there.
Goudeau encouraged visitors to visit all the shops and eateries
while in town. Someofthe itemsthat vendors will be offering areartwork, jewelry,ornaments from Eastern Europe, soaps, wooden birdhouses andcrosses,flower bulbs, pottery, antiques, cookies, embroidered items, Christmasitems and more, Godeau said.
The eventissponsoredbythe JacksonTourism Enhancement Committee under the Town of Jackson’sHistoricDistrictCommission. For more information, call(225) 933-4911.
Leila Pitchford
AROUND THE FELICIANAS
Live Nativity in Jackson Jackson United Methodist church will have aLive Nativity at 6:30 p.m.,Wednesday,Dec. 18. The nativity will be on the church lawn. The public is invited. Reneworjoinhistoricalsociety The West FelicianaHistorical SocietyMuseum reminds current and future members that all membership fees are due by Dec. 31. Stop by or call (225) 635-6330 to get on themember list.This year,all Send apostcard, help aclass
AFacebook updatesaid Regan Tutor’sclass at West Feliciana MiddleSchool is closinginonits postcard goals. Aphoto onlineshowed thatIdaho, Arizona, Nebraska, Indiana, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Delaware andRhode Island arestill missing.
Doyou have afriend or family member who can help? Please mail postcardstoWest Feliciana Middle School,ATTN: Ms. Tutor,POBox 690, SaintFrancisville, LA 70775
The unit is called “Across the Miles.”The studentsare studying maps, landmarks,weather and more across the U.S.
ä See AROUND, page 2G
PROVIDED PHOTO Regan Tutor’sclass at West Feliciana Middle School is very close to meetingits goal on itspostcard project.
Carmen and SalTenni, of Clinton, with granddaughter Chloe Bruceatthe tree lighting Dec.6 in Clinton.
PHOTOSBYMELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Oneofthe stops for free hot chocolate, this one provided by RKM
Jacksonmarshal speaks to town business owners
BY MELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Contributing writer
Jackson Marshal Mitch Harrell alongwithother lawenforcement officials met withlocal businesses Nov.13.
Harrellasked businesses“what canwedobetter” to serve businesses. Harrell said he plans to hold similar meetings once ayear.He opened the meeting by welcoming all, and he recognized East FelicianaSheriff Jeff Travisand representatives from theDistrict Attorney’sOffice –Assistant District Attorneys Bruce Dodd and KailynAlleman.
Harrell said even though “the parish doesn’thave alot of money” that his officeand the sheriff’s
DATA CENTER
Continued from page1G
department have a“very good relationship…work well together.”
Harrell read alist of changes, improvements andaccomplishments thathave takenplace since he becamemarshal.
Travis agreed that his department andthe marshal’shad agood
the projectcomes through” beforecommitting to funding.
“I can finally get this off my chest,” he said. Data centers are airport-sized buildings filled with computer servers andotherITinfrastructure thatserve as afacilityfor companies to store, process and send outdata. In addition to storage and cloud services, the powerful facilities can supportthings like AI machine learning,social media, large eCommerce purchases,real-time map services and evencryptocurrency mining.
Companieslike Meta,Amazon and Microsoft are spending hundreds of billions of dollars to construct these processing hubs across the U.S. andoverseas. Datacenters areacritical part of the AI boom thatisrapidly transforming the global tech industry Lastweek, Meta,the parent company of Facebookand Instagram, announcedit would spend $10 billion to build adatacenter in northeast Louisiana.
Specialized AI data centers, sometimes called “AIfactories,” providethe infrastructuretohelp train AI systems andalgorithms and deliver insights on them. This training requires huge amounts of data processing power Contributing writer James Minton contributed to this report.
Email Timothy Boone at tboone@ theadvocate.com.
AROUND
Continued from page1G
members will receive anew car decal showing support for the group
West FelicianaHospitalcelebratesholiday West Feliciana Hospital’sholiday celebrationcontinues through Dec. 31 with its drive-thru MagicalLights display Market Christmasreception
The St. Francisville Farmers Marketis held Thursdays from 9a.m. to 1p.m. Dec. 19 is the Christmas reception.Refreshments will be available as well as achance to shop for last minute gifts and holiday food. Santa will be on hand for photos. Save thedate
n The 20th annual FelicianaFamily and FriendsMardi Gras ParadeinJan. 25 in downtown Clinton. Mardi Gras in theCountry will line up at East FelicianaMiddle School, 10410 Plank Road, Clinton. Gates openat7 a.m.,Lineup startsat11a.m., and the parade rolls at noon. Visit www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064329323928 for contact information.
n The 90th annual 2025 LSUAgCenter State Livestock Show will beFeb.11-18 at Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales.
n The Azalea Polo Classic in St. Francisville will be at 2p.m., April 6.
n Spring Angola Rodeo Tickets are on sale. The event is April 26-27. Gates will openat8a.m., and the rodeo will start at 2p.m. All tickets are $20 per person. Ages 2and under are free if they sit ina lap. No refunds or exchanges allowed.Call(225) 655-2030 or (225) 655-2607 between 8a.m. and4p.m.orvisit https://0f472fe.netsolhost. com/tickets/.
n TheFeliciana Wildflower Festival will beJune 7and the group is seeking applications for sponsors, vendors and guest speakers.Visit www.facebook.com/FelicianaWildflowerProject for information.
n The Day the WarStopped is planned for June 7. Send news and events for Eastand West Feliciana parishes to extra@theadvocate com by noon Friday or call (225) 388-0731.
Assistants from the District Attorney’s Office, Kailyn Alleman, left, and Bruce Dodd speak at arecent meeting with businesses.
relationshipand would continue to do so. Travis said “the numbers are up” showing the improvement in law enforcement in Jackson.
Harrell said since hisarrival, some businesses have already donated needed supplies for the police units, the office and have
shown communitysupport.Har-
rell said he wants to hear from residents if they have “better ideas” and can be creativeindealingwith law enforcement in today’sworld.
He asked businesses to supply information such as the layout of their buildings in case of an incident and explained the usefulness of security cameras.
Businessman Wesley Giddens asked about town ordinances that might pertain to his businesses and also asked if there was something he coulddotoworkwiththe town more closely.Helearned that town ordinances are available online.
Alleman and Dodd talked about some of the best ways to help collect needed evidence and shared resources available to aid businesses.
Continued from page1G
DEMOCRAT
PHOTOSBYMELINDARAWLS
Harrell
with business owners. Free treats included hot chocolate and cookies at the nearby sheriff’s office and across thestreet morehot chocolate was provided by RKM. Mini beignets were made and given out by the East Feliciana Drug and Alcohol Awareness Council down St. Helena Street. Along the way,shops
Barbara and StevenBoyd, of Clinton, dressed up for the festivities.
The Grinch with gifts in the trunk of aclassic carDec. 6atthe Clinton Christmas celebration.
PHOTOSBYMELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Shops along St. Helena Street in Clinton decorated and readytoreceivethe Clinton SouthernChristmas shoppers
The East Feliciana Courthouse is awash in red and green Dec. 6during a celebration in downtown Clinton.
ChristmasinCountry warm mixture of history, holiday
BY FRANCESY.SPENCER
Contributing writer
Christmas in the Country an annual weekend of holiday festivities, was Dec. 6-8, in St. Francisville.
Choirs from Bains Elementary,West Feliciana Middle and West Feliciana High provided Christmas music on the front porch of the town hall beforethe lighting of the town Christmas tree.
In addition to pictures with Santa Claus, fireworks entertained the large crowd. Local merchants and businesses remained openfor shoppers and visitors.
As the hustle andbustle of the holidayseason approaches, don’t forget about you. Take the time to take careof yourself and achieveyour best health. Dr.Nyirenda and Dr.Richardson at Lane Family Practicecan help you manage chronic health conditions as well as unexpected illnesses and injuries so youcan enjoythe holidayseason.
SantaClaus, aka, Keith Rayborn,of Zachary, poses for pictures with Giovanni Goss before the lightingofthe town Christmas Tree during Christmas in the Country events.
St.Francisville Fire Chief Frank Lindsly,left, and Assistant Fire Chief TimPohlmann, provide warmwelcomes to visitors to the fire station.
Businesses that occupyhistoric Wood Cottage participate in the annual St. Francisville Christmas in the Country.
PHOTOSBYFRANCES Y. SPENCER
District Mercantile, one of the historic Main Street structures, was open to customers and visitors Dec. 6during the Christmas in the Countryfestivities.
Children playand circlethe largeChristmas tree that was lit in front of theSt. Francisville Town Hall during Christmasinthe Country
Acrowd gathers at the St. Francisville Town Hall, command central for scavenger hunt prizes and the lighting of the town Christmas tree.
East FelicianahonorsNovembertop students
Superintendent KeishaL.Netterville andthe East Feliciana Parish School Board recognized East FelicianaPublic Schools’ November Students of the Month at theboard’s meeting Nov.12.
Thesestudents includeMaxon Jones, Quad Area Head Start; Madisyn
Workforce Commission repsharestool with students
Community news report
East FelicianaHighSchoolseniors welcomed Corey Williams, anative of Clinton and Louisiana Workforce Commission employee, to the school Sept. 30. Seniors got an exclusivepresentation using the “My Life, My Way” simulator.The simulator is LWC’snew tool used to help with career planning.The tool estimates living costs around the state and connects userstooccupations that make their lifestylechoices affordable.
Enrichment Academy students explore evidence-based arguments
PROVIDED PHOTO Students in social studiesclasses at East Feliciana Enrichment Academy,including Brayden Dunn, explored document-based questions related to permafrost in the Arctic Circle on Nov. 1. DBQs are authentic assessments designed to supportstudents in making evidence-based arguments.
Profit, Clinton Elementary School; Jaiden Jolla, Jackson Elementary School; Kinslee Johnson, Slaughter Elementary School; Rodrionna Sims, East Feliciana STEAM Academy; Sebastian Moore, East Feliciana Middle School; and Makyle Cannon, East Feliciana High School.
SCHOOL TRIP
Community news report
On Oct. 29, the Exceptional Student Services classes of East Feliciana Public Schools had an opportunity to participateinBusterL Brown Day at the Greater Baton Rouge State Fair This event was designed for the students. Throughout the day,students enjoyed a variety of thrillingcarnival rides, which added asense of adventure and exhilaration to their experience. They also watched the Swifty SwineRacingPigs Show,where thepigs competed in races, showcasing their speed and agility Students were treated to a picnic-style lunch, all at no cost. This event provided an opportunity for students to develop their social skills. They interacted with peers from surrounding districts, fostering friendships and building asenseofcommunity among students with diverse backgrounds.
Rodrionna Sims, East Feliciana STEAM Academy
Madisyn Profit, Clinton Elementary School
Sebastian Moore, East Feliciana Middle School
Maxon Jones, Quad Area Head Start
Jaiden Jolla, Jackson Elementary School
Kinslee Johnson, Slaughter Elementary School
Makyle Cannon, East Feliciana High School
PROVIDED PHOTOS
JoKaylah Selders follows the peanut butter and jelly code of her East Feliciana High classmates.
James Mytles makes apeanut butter and jelly sandwich following code written by classmates.
PROVIDED PHOTOS Akeem Thompson listens for the soundsto build aword.
Jaylon Ceazer,Xavier Robinson, Tamira Brown and Jaylan Conner prepare to ride.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Rhyver Frank enjoys the carnival rides at Buster L. BrownDay
Candon Alfred has a ticket to ride.
A’myracle Brooks enjoys carnival games.
Oscar Dixon reaches new heightsatthe GreaterBaton RougeState Fair
Brandon Thomas enjoys aclassic car at Buster L. Brown Day.
West FelicianaHighnames Banner Freshmen
High blood pressure,diabetesand heart diseasecan sneak up on youleading to severe health problems.AnAnnual Wellness checkwith ourPrimary CareTeam of DoctorsTilleyand Fossier canhelpmakesureyou’reinfor ahealthy2025.
• Catch illnessesearly before they progress –itcould save your life
• Geta review of your medicationstoensuretheyare working, at the rightdosageand notinterfering with eachother
• Make sure you’re up to date on needed vaccinations likeflu, shinglesand pneumonia
• Developgood health habits to feel better
• Staying healthysaves youmoney in thelongrun
West Feliciana High firstnine-week Banner Freshmen, from left, are MadelynBourgeois Riggs GilfoilJa’mia Givens MarkellGlaser Natalie Oliveaux Kennedy SmithAyden and Tunstall Noah Vosberg.Not pictured: Tonio Sullivan.
n
Wastedisposalfirm given1-month deadline
Move followscomplaints of missed trashpickups
BY JAMES MINTON
Contributing writer
The East Feliciana Parish Police Jury has given awaste disposal company alittle over amonth to correct alitany ofcomplaints about garbage and trash collections in the parish. Waste Pro of Louisiana Inc. has had acontract to pick up garbage andother waste since February 2021,but Parish Manager David Amrhein told the jurorsattheir Dec. 2meeting that the company is in breach of its contract, in his opinion
He said Waste Pro is sticking toits schedule about 50 percent of the time, and meetings with company representativesdonot “seem to be getting very good traction.”
“I don’tsee how you can consider yourself successful when you only pick up garbage
EAST ANDWEST FELICIANA COUNCILONAGING
EAST FELICIANA
half the time,” Amrhein said to begin the discussion.
“Itcan’t be 50-50. That’s notacceptable,”
Juror Jason McCray said.
Juror Kristin Chasteen saidshe getsnumerous complaintsfrom residentsinher district about missed collections and passes them along to the company
“Usually when Icall, they come right out andpick it up. But Idon’t have time to call on every complaint,” she said.
Juror Keith Mills also said he gets numerous complaints about skipped pickups in his district.
Amrheinand several jurors said the missed collections are costing the company because it has to send atruck out to collect garbage at those locations. They suggested hiring drivers who live in the parish, among other suggestions for improving service.
District Attorney Sam D’Aquilla said the contract doesn’tincludeany penalties for
McCray offered amotiontothat effectbut withdrew it after company representatives spoke.
Jolene Johnson, aregional official with the company,while not disputing the jurors’ complaints, said the company has “put in a plan of action”toimproveits servicerecord.
LUNCH: 11:30 a.m.
Thursday, Dec. 12
ARTCLASS-JACKSON: 9a.m.
BINGO: 10:30 a.m.
LUNCH: 11:30 a.m.
Friday, Dec. 13
EXERCISE CLASS: 9a.m. and 10:45 a.m.
LUNCH: 11:30 a.m.
Monday, Dec. 16
EXERCISE CLASS: 10:45 a.m.
LUNCH: 11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 17
BINGO: 10:30 a.m.
LUNCH: 11:30 a.m.
Transportation Transportation is provided to East Feliciana Parish residents of anyage for appointmentsin East Feliciana, West Feliciana and East Baton Rouge parishes Mondaythrough Friday. Call (225) 683-9862 to schedule a transportation appointment
WEST FELICIANA
MICHAEL: 47; 4792 Audubon Lane, St. Francisville; driving under the influence
ANGEL: 19; 7935Jones Vaughn Creek Road, St. Francisville; simpleburglary
27
JR., KENNETH: 18; 7935 Jones Vaughn Creek Road, St Francisville; simple burglary
CLARK, JUSTIN: 32; 13832 Brookview Ave., Baton Rouge; possessionofSchedule II narcotics STOWERS JR., JAMES: 44; 8776 Reech Road, St. Francisville; battery of adating partner
NOV. 29
BONAVENTURE, KYLE: 36; 10434 La. 965, St. Francisville; aggravated battery,probation violation
NOV. 30
DAVIS,DENZELL: 36; 6800 Raspberry Lane, Shreveport; simple criminal damage to property, twocounts fugitivewarrant
DEC.1
PITTMAN, LAUREN: 36; 10434 La. 965, St. Francisville; aggravated battery,probation violation
poor service, short of declaringWaste Pro in breach of its contract. He suggested putting such adeclaration on afuture meeting’s agenda whilethe jury seeksanalternate contractor
Pressed for details, Johnson said afulltime employee hasbeen assigned to work in the parish every day to monitor the day’sactivities and coordinate with ajury employee who usually handles residents’ complaints. Asupervisor will cover for theemployee on days when she might be out, Johnson said. She said the company is open to hiring local residents, suggesting that jurors who know of potential hires send them to the company “Wehire every day,” she said. Jurors said they will take up the discussion again at their Jan. 21 meeting to see if Waste Pro is able to improve its service record.
DAR, Junior ROTC host flagceremony
BY MELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Contributing writer
The AlexanderStirling Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution was assisted by the West Feliciana High Navy Junior ROTCcadets Nov.20as they conducted aflag retirement ceremony at the Louisiana VeteransHomenear Jackson. The program was heldinthe large assembly room with veterans, staff, family members, nurse trainees and more in the audience.
DARRegent Lauren Pourciau opened the program and the colors were presented by the JROTC cadets. Several other
DAR members participated in theceremonyasthey led the audience inreading the preamble to theConstitution and “The American’sCreed” and in singing of
BY MELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Contributing writer
Marine Corps retired Col.Ray Dawson shared his military experiences during aNov.13talk to the Wednesday ClubofJackson.
He was introduced by club member Beth Thompson Moore, aveteran of the Air Force. Dawson, aresident of Baton Rouge, grew up in East Feliciana Parish “on Dawson Road about three miles north of Jackson,” he said. Heisa 1965 graduateof Jackson High School and a1969 LSUgraduate from LSU.
At LSU, he met with aUSMC recruiter,enlisted in the Marines, andwas soon on hisway to OCS, Officer’sCandidate School, at Quantico, Virginia, he said. He was commissioned asecond lieutenant in May 1969.
His 30-year military careerbegan with an 11-month deployment to Vietnam in 1970 and one month on Okinawa. Hewas promoted to first lieutenantinVietnam.
He said he served with cross section of America, including “country boys and city boys.” They did their duty serving for 12 months andreturned to theUSA,hesaid.
After serving his initial enlistment, Dawson said he used the G.I. Bill to go to lawschool. He also remained in the reserves and advanced in ranktocolonel.
He was recalled to active duty in November 1990 as alieutenant colonel. He served as battalion commander of the 3rd Battalion
“The Star-Spangled Banner.” Cadets also participated in the program by reading lines from the flag retirement poem “Though IFly No More” by Barbara L. Stem. Among the crowd were25-30 licensed practical nursing students from Northshore Technical Community College in Walker.Several studentssitting near DAR member Beth Dawson, of Jackson, said they learned about thesignificance of theretirement ceremony forthe first time by talking with Dawson and viewing the program.
The proper and dignified way to dispose of tatteredordamaged American flags is to burn them.
The burning of the many flags from West Feliciana, East Feliciana and the Veterans Homewas postponed due to high winds the day of the ceremony
23rd Marines, an infantry battalion headquartered in New Orleans. Dawson saidinDecember 1990 his battalion, with Marines and Navy corpsmenfromseveral states,deployedtoSaudi Arabia and were “in the field” for117 days —February to May in 1991. He shared some experiences, somehumorous, about living in the desert. He said he was initially asked when headed overseas if he wanted to leave on Christmas Day or wait until afterward. He replied that he wanted to leaveonChristmas instead of letting his soldiers sit around and think about what they were missing back at home.
Dawson said he still remembers the sacrifices of young Marines during his deployment in Operation Desert Storm. For his Desert Storm service, Dawson was awarded the Bronze Star,with a combat “V”for valor in June 1991. Dawson touched upon the Marines’ homecoming from Vietnam versus Desert Storm. He said when they were headed back to the states from Vietnam, theywere told not to wear their uniforms on the planes because of the unpopularity of the war.Incontrast, when they arrived back home fromDesert Storm, patriotismwas high They were welcomed by “a sea of people” and with “a large police
escort to the 3/23 headquarters” that made him “feel like the pope” as all trafficwas stopped except for the Marine caravan heading to the drill center,hesaid. Dawson mentionedthe bricks that have been placed in honor of or in memory of veterans in the Feliciana Veterans Park in Jackson. He also related that in the Dawson Family Cemetery,near Jackson, there are quite anumber of veterans buried. Some served in WorldWar II, Korea and Vietnam. One young relative, he recalled,was in his20s andserving during WWII when he was
Daughter of the American Revolution members are, from left in back, Nancy Bickham, Margaret Roubique, MaryMargaret Jones, Jan Pourciau, WeeAnn Daniel, TanyaLawton, AnnKleinand Lynne Richard. In front are birthday veteran Leon Will and DARmembers Lauren Pourciau and Beth Dawson.
PHOTOSBYMELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Junior ROTC cadets, from left, are Mason Carroll, Michael Ducote, Josie Gonzalez,Giselle El Bechir, Lee McMillan, Shunireya Smith, Kolton Bigner and Jackson Felker
Retired
FILEPHOTO BY HILARY SCHEINUK
Waste Pro crews work their route through the neighborhoods of Ascension Parish.
