Leslie M. Faulkner community outreach specialist with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, will be the featured speaker at the February Ascension GOP Roundtable, sponsored by Ascension Republican Women.
The roundtable is at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 20 at the Clarion Inn, 1500 W. La. 30, in Gonzales. Cost for the lunch is $30. Guests can prepay at paypal.me/ARW225. To RSVP, call (225) 921-5187 or email arwrus@ aol.com.
Bulls, Bands & Barrels
Tickets are on sale for the March 15 Bulls, Bands & Barrels at Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales. The event will include bull riding, barrel racing and live music featuring Sammy Kershaw with Vincent Mason. For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/yu83kp3e.
Second chance job fair set
The Ascension Parish Reentry Coalition and Ascension Parish Library are hosting a second chance job fair from 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 25 at the library’s Gonzales branch. Second chance candidates include anyone facing hiring barriers, including a criminal record. Attendees will have opportunities to interact and network directly with employers to discuss available positions and application processes. Participating businesses include FedEx, Express Employment Professionals, River Parishes Community College, The Lifehouse University and Louisiana Workforce Commission Donaldsonville Mardi Gras
Donaldsonville’s Mardi Gras parade is set for 2 p.m. Sunday The route is from Marchand Drive and Church Street to Railroad Avenue and will end at Mississippi Street.
Krewe of Ascension Mambo Krewe of Ascension Mambo has set its 2025 parade for 2 p.m. Feb. 22. The krewe’s ball is Saturday at Price LeBlanc PACE Center in Gonzales.
Krewe of Diversion Boat parade
The 30th annual Krewe of Diversion Mardi Gras boat parade floats starting at noon Feb. 22. All proceeds benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Registration will be at 6 p.m. Feb. 21 at Manny’s, and the cost will be $35 a boat.
LSU livestock show
The LSU AgCenter livestock show is ongoing through Tuesday at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center
Exhibitors will show cattle, hogs, goats, poultry and sheep. For a schedule, visit tinyurl. com/3nvacx3j.
VFW chili cook-off
Veterans of Foreign Wars 3693
Auxiliary is
Putting the fun in fundraising
Elks Freedom Ball raises money for veterans programs
Community news report
More than 400 people gathered Feb. 1 at the Price LeBlanc PACE Center for the Donaldsonville Benevolent and Protective Order’s Freedom Ball.
The ball, which supports veteran service programs, includes all the traditions and fanfare of a traditional carnival ball. The event celebrates and supports the health and well-being of veterans; those who serve, have served and have given their lives to protect the democratic way of life, all principles for which Elks believe in and take an oath to protect, a news release said.
“The tremendous success of the Freedom Ball is a testament to our community’s unwavering support for our veterans,” said ball organizer Lee Melancon. “This event not only brings people together in celebration but also plays a vital role in funding essential veteran service programs. We are honored to give back to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.”
The Elks honor selected veterans with the Military Marshal Awards.
ä See BALL, page 2G
Reigning Gonzales
Jambalaya Festival Queen Gracie Guillot makes history as she’s crowned the Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festivals Queen on Saturday in Baton Rouge.
PROVIDED PHOTO
Community news report
The Jambalaya Festival Association is celebrating a historic achievement as its reigning queen, Gracie Guillot, on Saturday was crowned the Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festivals queen. This is the first time a Jam-
Retro Con draws video game, comic book enthusiasts
BY WENDY LOUP Contributing writer
Video game and comic book enthusiasts enjoyed an interactive experience Feb. 1-2 at the Louisiana Retro Con Winter 2025 at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales.
The convention, which originated in Houma in 2022, is a video gamefocused event featuring local artists, comic book authors and toy vendors. Originally scheduled for Morgan City in fall 2024, the event was postponed to the winter due to Hurricane Francine.
The convention’s theme, “Sonic the Hedgehog,” brought out fans of the video game and movie franchise for cosplay contests throughout the weekend.
More than 80 booths were on hand showcasing games, toy and movie memorabilia, as well as voice actors and illustrators.
Guests included Ryan Drummond, former voice from “Sonic the Hedgehog” video game franchise; Barry Evans, Guinness World Record holder for owning the largest collection of Sonic memorabilia; and Jeremy Pourcy founder of the indie video game company Jrago Studios.
balaya Festival queen has won this tile, and Jambalaya Festival Association organizers say this achievement solidifies the festival’s status as one of the premier events in the state. The win came during the Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festival Confer-
ence in Baton Rouge.
“This prestigious honor not only recognizes Gracie’s dedication and excellence but also serves as a testament to the hard work of the Jambalaya Festival Committee and the countless volunteers who
PHOTO BY WENDY LOUP
Steven and Lily Butler, a fatherdaughter duo of freelancers with Archie Comics, were guest illustrators at Louisiana Retro Con Winter Feb 1-2 at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales.
PROVIDED PHOTOS BY TIM BABIN
Elks Freedom Ball King retired Lt. Col. Roman Kemp Carson and Queen Lucy Burton Cason.
Jason and Amy Cheek
Jay and Chabry Marks are joined by their children Jayden Marks and Madisyn Marks.
PROVIDED
BY TIM
BALL
Continued from page 1G
This year, the Elks honored 2025 Freedom Ball Marshals U.S. Marine Corps Sgt DeeDee DiBenedetto, U.S. Navy retired Rear Adm. Robert Ryland Percy III and U.S. retired Army SFC Jared Nolen.
In addition, the ball honored its Ball Captain Danielle Lennix, Queen Lucy Burton Cason and King retired Marine Lt. Col. Roman Kemp Cason.
Royal lords and ladies included Emma Cason and C.J. Fontenot; Jason and Amy Cheek; Jay and Chabry Marks and their children,
Ascension’s inviting eighth graders to Early College Option open houses
Community news report
The Ascension Public Schools Early College Option program is hosting a series of open house events for eighth grade students interested in exploring the program for high school.
Events are from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Feb. 18, March 25 and April 7 at River Parishes Community College in Gonzales.
Early College Option is a partnership between Ascension Public Schools and RPCC, where students can simultaneously earn a high school diploma and an associate degree for free. Any Ascension Parish student can apply Morgan Morris, a 2022 program graduate, is working on a minor in business administration and majoring in nutrition with a concentration in dietetics at LSU. She’s expected to graduate in 2026. Morris emphasized the invaluable opportunities her education has provided.
“It opens so many doors — whether it’s accelerating my college journey, gaining a deeper and more enriching college experience, or building meaningful connections with peers and professors,” Morris said. “Unlike the large and sometimes impersonal environment of high school, this has allowed me to engage on a more personal level with those around me.”
Parents and students are encouraged to attend a session for insights into the program. The open houses aim to provide a platform for direct communication and allowing attendees to ask questions, a news release said
The open houses, held in the BASF Room at RPCC, 925 W. Edenborne Parkway, will also feature current students sharing their experiences and insights For those unable to attend, information can be requested via email Additionally parents can reach out to the counselor at their school for information. For information on Early College Option and to apply for the program, visit earlycollegeoption.ascensionschools.org.
AROUND
Continued from page 1G
from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the VFW post hall, 42430 Churchpoint Road, in Gonzales.
The entry fee is $45; all proceeds benefit Books for Boots. To register, email vfw3693@gmail.com.
Contact Darlene Denstorff by phone, (225) 3880215 or (225) 603-1998; or email, ascension@ theadvocate.com or ddenstorff@theadvocate.com
Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday
Jayden and Madisyn Marks; and Kewanda Joshua and Monty Buckles.
The ball also recognized Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Post 3693, the Donaldsonville American Legion Post 98 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3766 of Gonzales.
Speakers was Tia Starr and Brian Henderson.
Over 400 people were in attendance at the ball This year’s theme was symbols of freedom and featured American symbols of democracy The Trilogy Band performed.
QUEEN
Continued from page 1G
have elevated the festival to new heights,” a news release from the Jambalaya Festival Association said.
The victory comes at a pivotal time for the Jambalaya Festival as it enters a new era at LamarDixon Expo Center in May a move that reflects the festival’s growth.
“What began as a cherished local tradition has flourished into a statewide celebration of culture, food, and heritage, drawing visitors from across Louisiana and beyond,” the release said.
Guillot, a junior at LSU majoring in mass communication, shared her excitement and gratitude for the once-in-a-lifetime honor “I’m still trying to find the right words to explain what I’m feeling,” she said. “Being crowned the Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festivals queen is a pivotal moment in any festival queen’s journey — a title that many dream of and prepare for, for years. As this was my first LAFF convention, I went in just hoping to represent the Gonzales Jambalaya Festival to the best of my ability and let the Lord do the rest.
“I wanted to put our festival and Ascension Parish back on the festival map and make my association proud Making top 10 was an honor I dreamt of for many years, but being crowned LAFF queen is the biggest honor of my life.”
Guillot, the daughter of Clint and Belinda Guillot, said she’s ready to represent all Louisiana fairs and festivals and promote the industries, commodities, cuisine, music and traditions that make Louisiana culture what it is.
“My life has been changed in the blink of an eye, and I can only thank God for trusting me with this role,” she said. “I have to thank my family and friends, my rhinestone sisters and my JFA members for believing in me and supporting me every step of the way.”
With a larger venue at Expo Center, the 2025 Jambalaya Festival is featuring expanded offerings, entertainment and the best jambalaya in the world.
For information on the Jambalaya Festival, visit jambalayafestival.net.
RETRO CON
Continued from page 1G
The convention’s gaming competitions included a Mario Party Retro Tournament and a Sonic Adventure 2 Battle Retro Speedrun Tournament.
Panels were held throughout the weekend such as “Drawing Attention With Your Imagination” and “Changing the World With the Power of Drawing and Comics.”
For those who work in the gaming and comic industry, the convention is a chance to meet with fans and others in the professions.
“The cons can help us connect with other voice actors in the business,” said Casey George, a voice actor, illustrator and animator who lives in Louisiana. My advice for people who want to break into the industry is do not be afraid to make connections. Fandoms can become a way to make friends and get leads on jobs in the business.”
Two of the guest illustrators were the father/daughter duo of Steven and Lily Butler, freelancers with Archie Comics.
The pair also hosted a panel titled “The Butlers Did It!”
Steven Butler, who has worked with “Archie Comics” since 1998, said the comic book industry has expanded with out-of-thebox ideas such as including one-page advertisements in which the product is featured in a comic story
Butler, who lives in Mississippi, wrote a comic book series called “Mississippi Macabre.”
“Writing comic books is similar to how you would write for movies, but you manage the story yourself by building the suspense and action along with the illustrations, Butler said.”
While Butler writes the stories, Lily Butler works on illustrations and digital technology
“Lily has been around this all her life,” Steven Butler said. “You have to love this
to do it. You need a strong work ethic.”
Lily Butler said working with her dad is an extension of their personal relationship.
“Collaborating with my dad is awesome because we have a good relationship,” Lily Butler said. “I’m blessed that we’ve always been close.”
Event vendors said the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center and convention size was perfect for gaming enthusiasts.
Sarah Stanley and Emily Carlin, of Pop Ramen, traveled from Mobile, Alabama, to sell cartoon, anime and gaming merchandise.
“Traveling to expos is a grind, but with the freedom you get it’s worth it,” Stanley said. “We also love getting the feedback directly from the community Our business is a creative outlet for us.
“This is a medium-to-highsize expo, and it is good because you aren’t overwhelmed inside. Seeing
other vendors you know is like seeing friends.”
This line of business has made some dreams come true for Carlin.
“We really do create what we dreamed and cared about,” Carlin added. Kevin Simons, owner of Quick Draw Shirts, said the Retro Con gives him the chance to display his custom-made T-shirts. Simons, from Plano, Texas, occasionally travels to conventions with his daughter Noelle, a comic book illustrator
“This is my first time attending this expo,” Simons said. “I sell original designs with slogans I think are funny
“You never know what to expect, and sometimes these expos aren’t popular But this one has had a good turnout.”
For information about the Louisiana Retro Con, visitlouisianaretroconvention com.
PHOTOS BY WENDY LOUP
Cosplaying as characters from Sonic the Hedgehog’ at Louisiana Retro Con in Gonzales are Sean Hutchinson, from left, as Dr Eggman; Spencer Williams, 10, as Tails; Jayne Williams as Knuckles; Sam Lazo as Sonic the Hedgehog; and Rebecca Lazo as Shadow.
Sarah Stanley, left, and Emily Carlin, of Pop Ramen, sold cartoon, anime and gaming merchandise at Retro Con.
Elks Freedom Ball Captain Danielle Lennix
Elks Freedom Ball speakers were Brian Henderson and Tia Starr.
PHOTOS
BABIN
Kewanda Joshua and Monty Buckles
Bright Star Theatre bringing history to Ascension libraries
Community news report
Bright Star Theatre is bringing four plays celebrating Black history to the Ascension Parish Library The theater group has entertained audiences across the United States for over 20 years and has been a part of Ascension Parish Library’s summer reading program.
“Black History, Hall of Fame,” a fast-paced show for all ages, will introduce many historical figures,
including Maya Angelou, Aretha Franklin, Mae Jemison, the Buffalo Soldiers and more at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at the library in Donaldsonville.
“From Anansi to John Henry” will celebrate folktales, tall tales and oral traditions. The trickster Anansi is one of the most important characters in West African, African American and West Indian folklore, a news release said. John Henry is an American folk hero about the freedman who was
Program aiming to bolster ranks of Ascension teachers hosting information sessions
Community
Information sessions will be held in February and March for anyone interested in applying for Ascension Public Schools’ Teach Ascension Academy
The academy is an on-the-job professional development program for aspiring primary, middle and high school teachers.
“Teach Ascension Academy offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring educators, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to become confident and effective certified teachers,” said LaCandace Thornton, a teacher at Donaldsonville High School. “The support I received from TAA has been unparalleled. I’m so grateful I chose this program.”
In-person sessions for current employees:
n Thursday, Feb. 13, from 3:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.: Donaldsonville High School Library
n Monday, Feb. 17, from 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.: ITTC, Central Middle School.
Virtual information sessions for the public:
n Monday, March 10, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.: meet.google.com/ kqi-xxge-exw
n Tuesday March 11, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.: meet.google.com/ xso-vwqr-ash.
In 2015, Ascension launched the
academy to recruit, train and hire teachers from alternative professions or academic programs. The two-year program includes four weeks of professional development over the summer placement as a teacher during the school year with weekly professional development, and master, mentor and supervising teacher support.
Minimum enrollment requirements for the program include:
n Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
n Minimum GPA of 2.2 or higher as evidenced by an official transcript
n Passing score on PRAXIS II (content knowledge)
Academy candidates who successfully complete the interview process will go through four weeks of professional development and receive field experience during the summer. Once completed, candidates will be evaluated to determine readiness for classroom placement in one of Ascension’s schools. Tuition for the program is $4,000, but will be covered if the candidate completes at least two years of teaching in an Ascension Parish public school.
For information including a Q&A, visit ascensionschools.org/ TeachAscension. Applications are accepted at ascensionschools.org/ ApplyNow
Powering Progress
said to have worked as a “steeldriving man.” The program is at 2 p.m. Feb 15 at the Gonzales library branch. Other tales in the show come from the celebrated “Gullah Tales” and oral traditions that have created a fabric of memorable characters and valuable lessons. The play is geared to students in prekindergarten through fifth grade On Feb. 21, meet some of history’s most inspiring women when
Bright Star presents “Empowered, Brilliant, & Brave: Great Women of Black History” at 4 p.m. at the Galvez library. Crunch numbers with NASA’s hidden figure, Dorothy Vaughan. Follow Harriet Tubman along the Underground Railroad. Celebrate the Jazz Age with Ella Fitzgerald. Plus, learn about groundbreakers like Michelle Obama, Sojourner Truth and Serena Williams. On Feb. 22, children will be introduced to civil rights leader the
Rev Martin Luther King Jr in
“Meet Dr King” at 10 a.m at the Dutchtown branch. The play introduces concepts like freedom, integration and equality and helps young children understand the Civil Rights Movement. The play follows King’s life, from a young boy experiencing racism for the first time to meeting his wife, Coretta, to becoming a pastor and national inspiration. This play is suitable for ages 5-11. To learn more, visit myapl.org.
Mayor, parish president proclaim Catholic Schools Week
Community news report
“United in Faith and Community” was the theme for Catholic School Week, Jan. 26 to Feb. 1, which highlighted the strength and connection Catholic schools share, a news release said.
In preparation for the week, St. Theresa and St. John Catholic students met with Gonzales Mayor Tim Riley and Ascension Parish President Clint Cointment to receive official proclamations from their offices. Riley welcomed the students and answered their questions about his responsibilities as mayor, providing insight into local leadership, the release said. Students also had the chance to explore the council chambers and learn where City Council members meet to discuss and make decisions.
At the Parish President’s Office,
James “Chief” LeBlanc led students on a tour of the Ascension Parish Government building.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mayor Riley and Parish President Cointment for their unwaver-
ing support of Catholic schools,” the release said. “Their generosity and time left a lasting impression on our students, inspiring them to understand the importance of service and leadership in our community.”
“For nearly acentury, theU.S. Gulf Coasthas been centraltoShell’s business and theU.S. energy supply. By investinginour Louisiana assets,we arelowering emissions and supplying thenextgeneration of energy.”
ShellinLouisiana is shapingthe future of energy. With thousands of Shell men andwomen across thestate,weare working everyday to reduceemissions, while increasing efficiency in our operations
Our tomorrowdepends on what we do today. Together,weare powering progress forabrighterfuture. Louisianaiswherewelive and we’reproud to call it home
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Gathering at Gonzales City Hall to proclaim Catholic Schools Week, front row from left, Hayes Vance, John Mitchell, Josephine Lemoine, Mayor Tim Riley, Emma Yancey, Anne Tyler Guidry and Madeleine Long; second row, Micha Ballow, Amanda Lambert, Taylor Hendricks, Maddox Bercegeay, Tanner Schexnaydre, Kim Rome and Kelly Naquin.
Ascension Parish President Clint Cointment, from left, visits with St. Theresa and St. John students, first row, Josephine Lemoine and Madeleine Long Middle; second row, John Mitchell, Emma Yancey and Hayes Vance Back; and third row, Anne Tyler Guidry, Maddox Bercegeay, Tanner Schexnaydre and Taylor Hendricks.
SPORTS
Ascension Catholic’s Elzy takes next step in football career
Chad Elzy watched his teammates play in varsity games as a freshman, only able to cheer them on as he played junior varsity games because he had transferred to Ascension Catholic.
That freshman year was the start of something special for the senior Last week, Elzy signed his scholarship to play football at Kentucky State in front of family, friends, teammates, coaches and the student body in the Ascension Catholic gym, a day he said he will never forget.
“This feels great to be able to do this in front of my family, friends, teammates, coaches and teachers/ staff at AC,” Elzy said. “This is something I worked hard for and I can check it off the list.”
Elzy is a two-time all-state running back and an offensive MVP in Class 1A that led the Bulldogs to two semifinal appearances in his four years. Elzy was not able to play in the semifinals against Ouachita Christian, a game the Bulldogs lost 24-22, due to an injury
The senior finished with 6,871 all purpose yards and 101 touchdowns. Those numbers rank him in the top three all time with those totals with Germaine Williams (1990) and his son Jai Williams (2020).
His impact on the field was large, but off the field, he remained a humble young man, according to his coaches.
“Chad is a great football player, but an even better person,” assistant coach Billy Brown said. “I have no doubt he will go on and do great things in life and be successful. Everyone looks up to him; he will be remembered for his play and his kindness.”
Head coach Lowell Narcisse knew from day one that Elzy was the total package.
“Chad embraced me as his new coach, he worked as hard as anyone on the team, he knows that
Attending a signing ceremony at
this was more than about football,” Narcisse said. “I have no doubt he will be successful in whatever he chooses to do.”
Elzy had multiple offers going into his senior season, with the landscape of college football and the transfer portal, situations changed, and he ultimately landed with Kentucky State.
“I believe things happen for a reason,” Elzy said. “The environment at Kentucky State, the coaches on my visit, they were great. They showed me why Kentucky State is a special place, and I cannot wait to get there.”
Reflecting on his time at Ascension Catholic, Elzy smiled and said this is like a big family, just an awesome experience to play with my brothers, we will be friends for life.” I played in different schemes and for different coaches, at the end of the day, I represented Ascension Catholic, it is special place to me.”
As for life away from football, Elzy said he is “a chilled person, love to play my video games and hang out with my family they are my support — and I know they will be with me on my journey My favorite thing to do is fish, love to fish.”
After Elzy took tons of pictures and did several interviews, he flashed a big smile and said, “This
is very nice, the goal to sign to play college football and get an education is achieved. My hope is that I left my mark here, for younger kids to dream about doing the same things.” Something tells me that Elzy left his mark, one we will always remember Around the parish
Other signing ceremonies were held around the country with athletes declaring their plans to play at the next level.
At Dutchtown High, Mason Miles signed with Milsaps; Hyland Rentz, Louisiana Christian; Andrew Fields, Northwestern State; Shawn Lovely, Louisiana Christian; Lekedrin Harvey, Hutchinson Community College; Christian Gautreau Louisiana Christian; and Josh Lewis, Tulane University
At St. Amant High, Caleb Ricks signed to play football with Idaho.
Also signing at Ascension Catholic were:
n Aubrey Delatte, softball, Nicholls State
n Sydney Viallon softball Louisiana Christian University
Troy LeBoeuf covers sports for the Ascension Advocate. He can be reached at troyleboeuf@ hotmail.com or ascension@ theadvocate.com or on Twitter @ Troyleboeuf.
PROVIDED PHOTO BY ASCENSION CATHOLIC ATHLETICS
Familiar Faces, Focused onthe Future
PROVIDED PHOTO BY ASCENSION CATHOLIC ATHLETICS
Ascension Catholic, from left, are Lashanda Green, Bridget Moland Chad Elzy Jr Chad Elzy Sr and Jacob Julien.
PROVIDED PHOTO BY DUTCHTOWN FOOTBALL
Dutchtown college signees, from left, are Mason Miles, Hyland Rentz, Andrew Fields, Shawn Lovely, Lekedrin Harvey, Christian Gautreau and Josh Lewis.
St. Amant High’s Caleb Ricks signs with Idaho football while surrounded by family
PROVIDED PHOTO BY ST. AMANT ATHLETICS
PROVIDED PHOTO BY ASCENSION CATHOLIC ATHLETICS
Ascension Catholic senior Sydney Viallon, second from left, signs with Louisiana Christian University to play softball With her at the ceremony are dad Kip Viallon, from left, mom Brandy Viallon and brother Johnny Viallon.
Ascension Catholic senior Aubrey Delatte, third from left, signs with Nicholls State softball. With her at the signing ceremony are sister Emma Delatte, from left, dad Scott Delatte and mom Jamie Delatte.
