CENTRAL CITY
NEWS General Excellence Louisiana Press Association National Newspaper Assn.
& The Leader
Color in Motion 5K 9 a.m. Saturday, June 29 Central School Complex
®
Thursday, June 27, 2013 • Vol. 16, No. 13 • 16 Pages • Serving Central • www.centralcitynews.us • 225-261-5055
City Responds to Boé Metro Councilman Says Central Having ‘Hard Time’
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A Tale of 3 Cities: Central, Watson, SE Baton Rouge
Central is still, I wouldn’t say struggling, but they’re having a hard time from the public works standpoint, and a police and fire standpoint.
CENTRAL — History is being made as communities in the suburbs of Baton Rouge decide whether to incorporate. Voters in Central approved incorporation in 2005 and a new school system in 2008. Now residents of Watson, just across the Amite River have filed papers with the Secretary of State and are circulating petitions. In Southeast Baton Rouge, residents are holding public meetings to consider the pros and cons of incorporation.
Editor, Central City News
See MINISTRY on Page 4
See BOÉ on Page 16
Arise, Ye Paralyzed Single Moms! Amanda Carroll
in the suburbs of Washington, DC. Then one day her husband was late coming in from an out-of-town trip. “When he finally got home, I knew something was wrong. He had a look of panic on his face and said, ‘I’m leaving you!’ I didn’t try to talk him out of it. I should have. I found out later the sordid
”
Metro Councilman Joel Boé in a statement to the Advocate opposing creation of a new city in Southeast BR
Metro Councilman Joel Boé
Last Friday, she told supporters of The Life of a Single Mom Ministries that she and her husband had an ideal life with their three small children
Woody Jenkins
CENTRAL — When Metro Councilman Joel Boé gave an interview to the Baton Rouge Advocate Monday stating his opposition to the incorporation of the proposed new City of Southeast Baton Rouge, he probably didn’t think his remarks would set off a round of controversy in the City of Central. But they certainly did. Boé was quoted by the Advocate as saying, “Central is still, I wouldn’t say struggling, but they’re having a hard time from the public works standpoint, and a police and fire standpoint.” That comment set off Central City Hall. Reportedly, it provoked a call from Central Mayor Mac Watts to Boé asking for an
BATON ROUGE — Today Amanda Carroll is the epitome of a successful single mother of three. She is the host of a daily radio program heard nationwide on 450 Christian radio stations. Her show, which airs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays has made her a household name for 14 million listeners. But not long ago, things were very different for Amanda Carroll.
Barrow Says Boé Statements False, Points to Surplus, Accomplishments
New Restaurant to Offer High-End Steaks, Seafood
Stablier Bringing Fine Dining to Central Little Village Owner Set to Open Stab’s At Magnolia Square
Photo by Jolice Provost
CENTRAL — Wayne Stablier, owner of the Little Village Restaurant in Baton Rouge, has completed construction and the hiring of staff for his first restaurant in Central — Stab’s, which will offer high-end dining, specializing in steaks and seafood. Stablier said Wednesday the staff is in training, and he expects to open by late July or August. Stab’s is located in the Village at Magnolia Square on Lovett Road, The Village is the first official Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) in the parish. Developer Steele Pollard said Stab’s is a STAB’S STEAKS AND SEAFOOD — Executive chef Justin McVey and general manager See NEW on Page 8
Melanie Way are training the staff for the opening of Stab’s at Village at Magnolia Square.
Color in Motion 5K Run to Close Roads Saturday
CENTRAL — The Central Community School System will hold Color in Motion 5K race Saturday at 9 a.m. It’s a fundraising event to help raise money to build a bike and walking trail. Parts of Sullivan, Gurney, and Joor roads will be closed. Saturday morning. It’s not too late to register to participate in the 5K run. The cost is $50. For more information on the event, go to www.ColorInMotion5K.com. For road closings, go to Page 14 of this edition.
2 CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013
COMMUNITY PRESS, LLC CAPITAL CITY NEWS Vol. 22 • No. 13
The Crusade
CENTRAL CITY NEWS
& The Leader Vol. 16 • No. 13, No. 347
910 North Foster Drive Post Office Box 1 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Greenwell Springs, LA 70739
Phone (225) 261-5055 • FAX 261-5022 • Entire contents © 2013
Email stories and photos to capitalcitynews@hotmail.com or centralcitynews@hotmail.com Published every other Thursday from January to August and every Thursday from September to December by Community Press, LLC The Leader was founded April 30, 1998, and the Central City News was founde April 21, 2005. They merged May 4, 2006. Capital City News is a continuation of the South Baton Rouge Journal, which went on hiatus in 2008 during its 20th year of publication. The Capital City News resumed publication of the Journal with Vol. 21, No. 1 on Aug. 16, 2012. Community Press also publishes the Central Community Directory and other publicatons.
Editor & Publisher Business Manager Graphic Artist Business Specialist
Woody Jenkins Candi Lee Terrie Palmer Jolice Provost
Member, National Newspaper Association & Louisiana Press Association Deadline for news and advertising: 5 p.m. Mondays $40 a year by subscription in advance • $50 a year outside East Baton Rouge
Country Living in the City
Can’t Baton Rouge Have Its Very Own Newspaper? With Population Of 450,000, EBR Shouldn’t Have to Share with NOLA Woody Jenkins
Editor
BATON ROUGE — On Monday, the new publisher of the Advocate, John Georges, spoke at length about his plans for the Advocate at the Baton Rouge Press Club and thereby invited public comment. Basically, he seems to be on a path to make the Advocate a regional newspaper with two editions, one for Baton Rouge and one for New Orleans. Frankly, the direction he is taking is very good for us. We are a locally-owned community newspaper serving the people of East Baton Rouge. Everything we do is about this community, not New Orleans or elsewhere. If the big daily in our community goes off on a tangent, it creates an opportunity for us. A lot of people read our newspaper. About 16,000 copies of each issue are circulated, and it is read by about 40,000 people — about 2.5 readers per copy. In addition, another 20,000 copies
Discover Your New
are delivered on-line. Virtually all of our readers are in East Baton Rouge Parish, especially South Baton Rouge and Central. Do we compete with the Advocate? Of course we do, because we compete for people’s attention and readership. Right now, we’re getting good reviews from our readers. People seem to truly enjoy our product. We’ve been increasing our reach by adding more and better locations for distribution — now more than 400 locations where you can pick us up. Compare this with the 44,000 copies of the Advocate distributed in East Baton Rouge Parish, and you see that we are beginning to make a difference and build a real audience. Moreover, our presence in the market helps define what news is and how the issues will be framed. So why should we object to the Advocate’s becoming a regional newspaper? Because it’s bad for our community! East Baton Rouge Parish has nearly 450,000 people. This is the State Capital, the wealthiest parish, the population center, the political center, and the media center of Louisiana. Doesn’t a market that size deserve a daily newspaper that intensely covers what is happening here? Of course it does. There is so much important news to be covered here, and our
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“Go forth, young King John Georges to recapture New Orleans and establish your dominion throughout all the land.” media only skims the surface. The daily newspaper in Baton Rouge should be covering all the local governments, investigating all the political shenanigans, and putting the spotlight on the churches, the schools, and the people. Instead, the Advocate is running off to New Orleans, Slidell, Lafayette, Houma, and all the rest in a 20-parish area. There is absolutely no way under the sun that they can do justice to the people in those areas. And they certainly cannot fulfill their obligations to the people of this parish. The entire Advocate could be filled with news about this parish, because there’s that much going on. They have the resources to do just that, but they are not. I believe John Georges is a good man and means well, but this is very different from a wholesale food distribution company. This is not about how far out you distribution your paper, or how many copies go to far-flung places. Rather, it’s about doing a great job in the communities you serve.
Every community of any size at all deserves its own newspaper. A State Capital city with all the things Baton Rouge has going for it certainly needs and deserves a newspaper devoted to IT. When you take on the ownership of a newspaper, you take on a lot of responsibilities. If you are the Woody Jenkins only daily newspaper in a community, you have to — first and foremost — cover that community. After that, cover what you possibly can about the state and nation. But don’t dilute your resources and the little space you have in every issue to cover communities in far distant places, such as New Orleans. Most people here aren’t really that interested in New Orleans, to be honest All of this brings me to the real news: We have a new motto for our newspaper: “We DON’T cover New Orleans!”
CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013 3
Confederate Bastion Challenged Union Control of River
150 Years Ago: Siege of Port Hudson
Confederate cannons at Port Hudson firing at Union ships on the Mississippi
Siege Lasted from May 22 to July 9,1863
PORT HUDSON — June 2013 marks the 150th anniversary of the Siege of Port Hudson during the Civil War. The Union had control of the entire Mississippi River with the exception of Vicksburg and Port Hudson. It hoped to secure complete control by capturing those two citadels. At Port Hudson, 7,500 Confederate soldiers under Maj. Gen. Franklin Gardner set up their defenses over a large area that overlooked the river. Union Gen. Nathaniel Banks had more than 30,000 troops at his command — far more than enough, he believed, to secure an early victory or the surrender of the Confederate soldiers. Both sides endured privations, especially the Confederates whose supply lines were cut off. The de-
fense of Port Hudson was complex, using well-planned defensive earthworks and skillful reinforcement of threatened areas. The Union laid siege and launched several large attacks, all of them very unsuccessful. The battle marked one of the first large-scale uses of black soldiers by the North. They performed bravely but were decimated. In the final assault, the Union suffered 1,792 casualties to only 47 for the South. When Vicksburg fell on July 4, the Confederates’ position was unsustainable, especially without food or ammunition. Despite their courage and resolve, starvation and disease took its toll. Gardner negotiated lenient terms of surrender. A total of 5,935 Confederate soldiers were paroled, while 405 officers were taken prisoner, half ending up at Johnson Island prison in Ohio. Because of an error in the parole, most of the paroled soldiers returned to duty. Confederate soldier
Union sailors bombing Port Hudson
Books on Port Hudson include Where Bugles Called and Rifles Gleamed by Baton Rouge author William A. Spedale; The Guns of Port Hudson by David Edmonds, and Port Hudson, Confederate Bastion on the Mississippi by Lawrence Hewitt.
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4 CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013
Ministry to Single Moms Has Grown Continued from Page 1
details.” Her world collapsed. She had little income and no help with her children. “I had no life except what I had built with him. I cast my lot with him,” she said. She faced overwhelming challenges on every front. But one of the worst things she faced was an almost complete paralysis. Like so many single moms, she had trouble knowing what to do next. One of her worst disappointments was her church. “I was afraid to go back to my church. We had been teaching Sunday School together. It was the perfect church that people want to go to. How could I walk in with three children, one in a stroller, and no husband?” “At my new church, I wondered where the single moms were. They weren’t in church at all.” “So many of us are like the paralyzed man in Mark 2:1. Jesus was preaching to a multitude of people. The paralyzed man heard about Jesus and got four of his friends to carry him there to be healed.” “The crowd was so large that
The Life of a Single Mom A Ministry Started in Baton Rouge Now 1,200 Support Groups In 19 Countries www.thelifeofasinglemom.com
LIFE OF A SINGLE MOM MINISTRY held a fundraiser at Kress downtown. The featured speaker was Amanda Carroll (left); the emcee was Keith Cox (center); and the founder of the organization is Jennifer Maggio. For information, go to www.thelifeofasinglemom.com.
they could not come near Jesus. So they dug a hole in the roof and lowered the man on a mat to get him near Jesus.” “When Jesus saw him, we said, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.’ But the people were not satisfied with that. They wanted him healed. Then Jesus asked, ‘Which is easier, to say to the paralyzed man your sins are forgiven or Get up, take your mat and walk?’ And Jesus told them that he had authority to forgive sins on earth. Then he told the man, ‘I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.’ The man got up, took his mat, and went home.”
“We single moms are like that man. First, we must take away the shame. However you arrived at this place, your sins can be forgiven. That is the first step to be healed from the paralysis you are in. We must not think that our circumstances control us.” “I say to you, ‘Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house!’” “The Life of a Single Mom Ministry reminds me that you are not a mistake. You do not have to be paralyzed.” “Nearly a year after my husband left me, my friend and I hatched a
plan. I needed a full-time job and I was going to leave on Aug. 1, exactly one year after he left. But I didn’t know where we would go.” “We decided to have an epic yard sale. It lasted three days. I had to have the money. I called the moving people and asked them to bring me a POD. They asked where I was moving. I said I didn’t know. I would tell them later. Meanwhile, we were filling the POD with our things. I was on the phone, calling everyone I knew in radio. I told them I needed a job. Then I got a call from a friend, who
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CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013 5
from Baton Rouge to 19 Countries
LIFE OF A SINGLE MOM FUNDRAISER — More than 75 Baton Rouge area residents came to hear Amanda Carroll and support Life of a Single Mom Ministry Friday downtown.
was the program director of a national radio network. He said, ‘I have a job for you!’” “He said, ‘We are prepared to offer you a job with K-LOVE radio.’ I said yes! I had to be in California before kindergarten started Aug. 7. The lady who booked the flight booked it for Aug. 1 — exactly the date I had picked! On the plane, my four-year-old, two-year-old, and 18-month-old annoyed everyone on the flight!” “Sometimes you are the paralyze mom who needs to be healed. Sometimes you are one of the friends who carried the paralyzed mom. I’m doing this, because someone did it for me!” More than 75 Baton Rougeans
gathered for the fundraising event at Kress downtown. The organization’s founder, Jennifer Maggio of Baton Rouge, told the audience her life story, which included being physically and sexually abused as a child, having been pregnant four times by age 19, and living in the projects. But she turned her life around, went back to school, and became a corporate executive with a Fortune 500 company. She won the Circle of Excellence Award 11 times with her company. She earned a six-figure income. She said, “I thought I’d retire from that job!” But she met her husband, and they adopted their children. She decided to walk away from corporate
America to work full-time without pay to start Life of a Single Mom Ministry. “Right now, two out of three single moms do not have a church. We must reach out to them.” Maggio advocates churches starting ministries aimed directly at single moms, in order to help them find God’s forgiveness and bring them into the body of Christ. She distinguishes between a singles ministry and a ministry to single moms, which are quite different, she said. At the fundraising event at the old Kress Building in downtown Baton Rouge, the audience was filled with those who want to help single moms. Most of the audience
was composed of married women and some of their husbands. Emcee Keith Cox, a supporter of Life of a Single Mom Ministry, urged people to get involved with the organization. He said that under Jennifer Maggio’s leadership, it has grown from one support group in Baton Rouge to 1,200 support groups all over the United States and in 19 foreign countries. Cox said, “No single mom should ever have to walk alone. As a dad, I have often been overwhelmed. How do the single moms do it? My mother always told me, when you see God moving, join in! Join with us in Life of a Single Mom!” For more information, go to www.TheLifeofaSingleMom.com.
KAREN AND BILL PROFITA (left) were among those who turned out to learn more about and support Baton Rouge-based Life of a Single Mom Ministries.
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6 CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013
Targets New Orleans for Future Growth
New Advocate Publisher Discusses Plans Advocate Publisher Says Paper to Offer Regional Coverage
EDITOR’S NOTE: John Georges of New Orleans, the new publisher of the Baton Rouge Advocate spoke at length to a packed session of the Baton Rouge Press Club. Much of his talk centered on his plans for the future of the Advocate. But he also said, “My father told me, ‘That which is spoken is never done, and that which is done is never spoken.’”
BATON ROUGE — In a speech to the Baton Rouge Press Club Monday, the new owner of the Baton Rouge Advocate told about his decision to purchase the Advocate and his plans for the future. Here are highlights of his talk: • Unlike so many daily newspapers, the Advocate has an attractive office and modern press facilities outside the downtown area. • Employees he’s spoken to are ready to expand to New Orleans. • The Advocate’s expansion to New Orleans before he arrived got the “foot in the door.” • He has 25 journalists in New Orleans plus Jefferson Parish and St. Tammany bureaus. • The Advocate’s printing facility can print 70,000 papers an hour. So he can expand throughout South Louisiana. “Our ability to serve South Louisiana is in place,” he said. • He has named Community Boards for Baton Rouge and New Orleans. These are not editorial boards but an attempt to get in-put from the community. • Entrepreneurs are buying newspapers. One reason is they are more affordable. Warren Buffet and the Koch brothers are among those making acquisitions. Entrepreneurs are well prepared to own newspa-
ADVOCATE PUBLISHER JOHN GEORGES, Advocate senior editor Carl Redman, and Brenda Hodge of the Louisiana Senate at the Baton Rouge Press Club Monday.
pers because they are competitive. • When asked how much he paid for the Advocate, he said it was something he could afford. • With growth, there will be pain. In New Orleans, circulation is the priority. • He said he’s the “business guy,” while Dan Shea and Peter Kovacs (former editors of the Times-Picayune) are in charge of the Advocate’s news content. • When asked if the Advocate will be a hometown paper or a regional paper, he said, “We will be two newspapers, Baton Rouge and New Orleans.” • The Advocate wants to be the primary content provider for LSU, the small towns, and the region. He will do the same things for New Orleans. • Before last Christmas, New Orleans was not getting New Orleans obituaries in the Advocate but now
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they are. • Before this Christmas, there will be another paper. • Right now the Advocate is touching 30,000 homes in the New Orleans area. He said he’s adding prep sports and social news. But he raised the question, “How much does Baton Rouge want to read New Orleans social news?” • In answer to a question on how the Advocate will provide “better journalism,” he said the Advocate has had six journalists competing with 40 (presumably at the Picayune) but now that has been increased. • He’s not responsible for everything that appears in the paper. “The smart entrepreneur gets out of the way,” he said. • Sears Roebuck was dominant, and now Wal-Mart is dominant. • In New Orleans, there isn’t even a press club. • When asked about the TimesPicayune’s four-day-a-week tabloid, the TP Street, which was launched Monday, he said, “Let them enjoy the day. It might be an insert in the Advocate some day.” • None of his personal views will be expressed in the Advocate. “I don’t intend on putting my imprint on the paper. Right now, the team is in place.” • When he was a candidate for office, he saw examples of bad journalism. “I hope the Advocate is not like that.” • When you become the publisher, it’s like being the governor. Your views moderate. You have to balance your views. You want both sides to be heard. “When the Manships felt strongly, they got involved,” he said. • When asked about future plans, he said his father told him, “That which is spoken is never done, and
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that which is done is never spoken.” • When the Picayune went to three days a week, he was not part of the outcry against it, because he was already in negotiations to buy the Advocate. • When he got the family business, it was grossing $29 million a year in a few parishes around New Orleans. Today it is doing more than $1 billion over several states. • When asked what is the “crown jewel” and where do you want to go? he said, “New Orleans is an opportunity. We already have the crown jewel. Post-Katrina, the Picayune lost half its readership and half its readers.” He said this gives the Advocate the opportunity to grow, defying the national trend. • When asked if he has regional plans, he said, “It’s like you’re advising George Bush to invade Iraq. But it’s slow growth, a years’ long battle. • He’s been invited to serve on the board at LSU’s Manship School of Journalism. He hopes his daughters will get their masters’ degrees there. • He doesn’t plan to make political endorsements, but he said he didn’t rule it out. “I like the independence of the Advocate. I don’t want any bias.” • He supports Freedom of Information. He said, “We’ll do our role. We’ll take it very seriously. • When asked how he could be independent and be the official journal of the state, he said there wasn’t a lot of money in that. There was more money in being the official journal for local government, he said. • There’s a lot to write about in New Orleans. He said the Advocate bureau in New Orleans can produce more content today. The Advocate can also serve more communities, including Houma and Thibodaux. • When asked what he looks for in acquisitions, he said, “Meat and potato businesses. We’re a distributor. We distribute 10,000 products a day. Newspapers have to be delivered. We look for well run companies, and sometimes companies that are not well run, if they fit what we need.” • When asked if he has a dream of a New Orleans Advocate Picayune, he said, “It does make sense.” “Our Baton Rouge facility can handle it all. Mobile, AL, would be difficult if not impossible. I get the Advocate at 4 a.m. I used to get the Picayune at 5 a.m. People in New Orleans love LSU, and people in Baton Rouge love the Saints.” • When an employee asked if he was going to take the Advocate statewide, he said he responded by saying, “Why limit ourselves to Louisiana? Who knows what’s in my future.”
CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013 7
Former Owner of Radio Station WLCS
Radio Pioneer Lamar Simmons Dies at 92
LAMAR SIMMONS — (Left to right) Lamar Simmons with brother Shelton during World War II; Lamar with partner Gene Nelson at WLCS radio; and Lamar in later years.
Simmons Fought At Iwo Jima, Guam, And Bougainville During World War II
BATON ROUGE — Baton Rouge radio pioneer Lamar Simmons died last Thursday at age 92. Simmons, who graduated from Istrouma High School in 1938, attended the LSU School of Journalism but dropped out just before graduating to volunteer to serve in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. He was in the
Lamar Simmons received his degree from LSU from President Bush in 2004.
South Pacific and saw combat in some of the most difficult battles — Iwo Jima, Guam, and Bougainville. He lost most of his hearing during combat. His three younger brothers — Shelton, Gene, and Jimmy — joined the other three branches of the armed forces. All were graduates of Istrouma. Gene is a longtime resident of Central. After the war, Lamar Simmons recruited nine partners and together they purchased radio station WLCS, the first rock and roll station in Baton Rouge. It was often the No. 1 station in the market and in 1964 had a 55 percent share of the market. He and his partner Gene Nelson evenSIMMONS (left) with his brothers Shelton, Gene, and Jimmy. All graduated tually bought out the other partners. LAMAR from Istrouma High and served in the U. S. military. Shelton predeceased Lamar. He also owned WQXY-FM in Baton Rouge, along with stations in Beaumont and Jackson, MS. After selling the stations, he enjoyed raising cattle on a farm in East Feliciana Parish. In 2004, LSU discovered that Lamar had earned enough credits to receive his degree. It was presented by President George Bush. Lamar Simmons was preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his children, Wessie Olivia Harvey Simmons, his son Steven Perry Simmons, and his brother Shelton. He is survived by his wife Annie Walker Simmons; son David Lamar Simmons, Sr.; daughter Carol Anne White; daughter Janis Marie Swetman; spouses; eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; his brothers Gene and Jimmy, and their families. Funeral arrangements and • Cholesterol Testing Home Health Products burial were at Resthaven Gardens. • A1C Testing • Walkers • PT/INR • Wheelchairs • Blood Pressure Checks • Bathroom Supplies • Blood Sugar Checks • Diabetic Supplies
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8 CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013
New Businesses Come to Village
Steele Pollard and Steve Rabalais
Continued from Page 1
milestone for the Village at Magnolia Square. Having a restaurant offering fine dining by a well-regarded Baton Rouge restaurateur will be a major draw for the TND and a major convenience for residents. Four other businesses will be located in the building with Stab’s — Avant Tous Beauty Bar, Beau Ideal Salon, and Title Plus title company. The building was developed and built by Central homebuilder Steve Rabalais. Last year, Rabalais developed the first commercial building at Vil-
Michelle and Gil Matherne
Stab’s Steak and Seafood is located at 13438 Magnolia Square, Suite A
lage at Magnolia Square. It houses Bourg Insurance, Edwards Jones Investments, B&K Bank, Rabalais Homes, and Wall Decor & More. The new building was unveiled at an evening social last Thursday hosted by the Magnolia Square Business Association in conjunction with the City of Central Chamber of Commerce. Stablier said Stab’s will offer prime strips blackened in the skillet, beef wellington, lamb chops, Chilean sea bass, shrimp dishes, red fish on the half shell, and much more. A variety of great sandwiches will also be available at lunch,
he said. Stablier has hired Melanie Way of Central as general manager. A graduate of Central High School, she studied at LSU and worked in accounting and finance for years. She opened a coffee shop in 2001 where Central Perk is now located and sold to Debbie Johnston. She continued to operate a coffee shop in downtown Baton Rouge until selling her business after Katrina. Stablier said Melanie knows everyone in Central and will be a big asset to the business. Stablier has two locations of The Little Village, La Creole restaurant,
Everyone enjoyed the the evening social at Village at Magnolia Square
and several other businesses. His primary business is catering, and he has established himself as one of the country’s leading suppliers of emergency housing for utility companies during disasters. He creates a village, including sleeping trailers, tents, dining facilities, showers, laundry, and other necessities for utility workers facing harsh conditions. Stablier said the secret to his success is finding good chefs and good people. He said his chief of operations, Laila Britos, is espeecially key to his success. Justin McVey will be executive
S
The event was hosted by the Magnolia Squar
CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013 9
e at Magnolia Square in Central
Stephanie Rabalais and her staff at Beau Ideal Salon, 13438 Magnolia Square, Suite D
chef at Stab’s. Stab’s general manager Melanie Way said she will be adding special touches for the Central community including an herb garden on the side of the restaurant, which will be maintained by local farmers. Steve Rabalais is the largest homebuilder in Central and is having an impact on the Baton Rouge market. His wife Stephanie is owner of Beau Ideal Salon, which is open in the new commercial building at 13438 Magnolia Square Drive, Suite D. They are also now offering massage. Beau Ideal is open
re Business Association
from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is accepting appointments at 225-261-1011. Beau Ideal was previously located in the shopping center at Greenwell Springs at Sullivan Road. Avant Tous Beauty Bar and Spa is owned by Nicole Keller, Ellen Pino, and Hope Smith. They are offering spa, esthetics, and nail salon? Avant Tous is now open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is accepting appointments at 225-448-3962. Title Plus is a Louisiana-based full-service title company. Their website says, “We handle only real estate transactions, allowing a sin-
Mackenzie Lauren and Connor Lloyd
Nicole Keller, Ellen Pino, and Hope Smith of Avant Tous Beauty Bar and Spa
gular and direct focus on our real estate industry clients. We have a clear vision of attaining excellence in our service and do not feel the need to distract our attention with matters other than real estate transactions.” They said they provide 24-hour turnaround on title commitments and provide in-house attorneys to oversee all transactions. Developers Jimmy Nunnally and Steele Pollard began construction of the first home at Village at Magnolia Square in 2009. The development will eventually include more than 500 homes. About 40 have already been constructed.
Live music was enjoyed by all at the event
Homes constructed to date have ranged in price from $250,000 to $1 million. Amenities include walking trails, a playground, and a stocked lake, as well as boutique shopping and now dining. Upon completion, the Village at Magnolia Square could provide investment in Central of well over $100 million. The location of an “anchor” restaurant in the development has been a long-time goal of the developers. If the original plan for Village at Magnolia Square is followed, it will include a lot more retail development.
Modern day barber pole
10 CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013
What’s Happening Around Capital City
BATON ROUGE — Events coming up in and around the capital city: Thursday, June 27 Heritage Lecture Series • 6 p.m. Rod Dreher, American writer and editor, LSU graduate, and resident of St. Francisville, will join Foundation for Historical Louisiana members and guests as the featured speaker in its Heritage Lecture series at the Old Governor’s Mansion. The lecture is free for FHL members and $10 for guests. For information call 387-2464 or visit www.fhl.org. Thursday, June 27 Pachyderms of GBR • 6:30 p.m. Former Congressman Jeff Landry will address the Pachyderms of GBR meeting at the Great Wall Chinese Restaurant, 3084 College Dr. In 2010, Landry was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives on a platform of cutting spending, creating jobs, and limiting government’s growth. He is the founder and president of Restore our Republic PAC. Cost of the buffet is $13. Reservations are requested. RSVP 644-5728 or em-mail info@ pachydermsofgbr.org. Friday, June 28 Summer Beat • 5 to 8 p.m. Councilman John Delgado invites you to Summer Beat — live music every Friday. The bandstand is located at 4264 Capital Heights. Band will be The Business. Friday, June 28 Paul Raiford in Concert 6 to 8:30 p.m. Comite Baptist Church, 12250 Greenwell Springs Rd., will present the music of Paul Raiford at Free Coffeehouse. The Coffeehouse is in the church foyer. Relax and enjoy free refreshments and beautiful music. Saturday, June 29 Color In Motion 5K A Color In Motion 5K will be held
number of players between the ages of 12 and 14. This camp is for experienced players who want to improve their skills for the next level and prepare for the upcoming season. Players will be videoed and their progress will be reviewed prior to each day’s workout and they will receive daily feedback on their performance and progress. For information contact Coach Ron Lewis at rlewis@centralcss.org or 261-2780. July 8 through 12 Masterpiece Kids Summer Arts Camp • 9 a.m. to 12 noon First Baptist Church Baton Rouge, 529 Convention Street, will host a Masterpiece Summer Arts Camp. The cost is $10 per child, which includes all art supplies and a t-shirt. For information, call 343-0397, email info@ fbcbr.com, or visit www.fbcbr.com.
CAYL UNDEFEATED SEASON — The Stingers 2013 Coaches Pitch team were 10-0 in their league play. They also won 1st place in the pre-season tournament. Shown are (1st row, left to right) Reagan Carroll, Madison Stephens, Annalise Leep, Hailee Lemoine, Shaun Leiva, Samantha Evans, and Rebecca Betz and (2nd row) coach Johnny Carroll, Allison Turner, Blair Entremont, coach Chuck Entremont, Grace Toler, Kiersten Zylks, and coach Mike Toler.
starting at 9 a.m. at the Central Intermediate School at the Central School Complex, 12636 Sullivan Road. Proceeds will help build a community bike/walk path. For details, visit ColorInMotion5K.com. Wednesday, July 3 “Guys & Doll” • 3 p.m. The LSU Museum of Art, located in the Shaw Center for the Arts, 100 Lafayette St., has partnered with the Manship Theater, on the first floor of the Shaw Center, to present “Guys & Dolls.” Tickets are $6 each. Thursday, July 4 Independence Day Celebration and Fundraiser • 7 to 10 p.m. The LSU Museum of Art will host its annual Independence Day Celebration and fundraising event at Tsu-
UPTOWN COUNTRY THINGS is now open at 14455 Greenwell Springs, Suite D in Central. Uptown Country is an antiques, resale, clothing, and gift shop. Hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and closed on Sunday. Owners are Peggy Duncan and Amy Williams. 225-277-2588.
nami, located on the roof of the Shaw Center for the Arts, 100 Lafayette St. Guests will enjoy a selection of Tsunami’s fine grill and sushi offerings, as well as wine and other drink specialties, while listening to the music of Blues4Sale and watching the annual fireworks extravaganza along the Mississippi riverfront. Tickets are $125 for LSU Museum of Art members, $150 for non-members, and $50 for guests age 5-21. Children five years of age and under will receive free admission. For information or to purchase tickets, call 389-7210. July 5 and 6 Garage Sale • 7 a.m. to 12 noon St. Alphonsus youth is having a garage sale. Great deals on appliances, tools, baby items, and much more. Must see to believe! In the Family Center behind the church. Proceeds to benefit the St. Alphonsus Youth Ministry. Sunday, July 7 Freedom Sunday Service 10:30 a.m. Greenwell Springs Baptist Church, 19421 Greenwell Springs, will host their 4th annual Free Sunday. This is an event scheduled around Independence Day to celebrate both the civil and religious Freedoms we enjoy as Americans. This year’s program will feature the president of the Family Research Council, Tony Perkins, and the nationally acclaimed Voices of Mobile. Veterans and military personnel will be recognized and honored. Everyone is welcome. For information, call 261-2246 or visit www.gsbcla.com. July 7 and August 4 Free First Sunday • 5 p.m. Free admission to the LSU Museum of Art, located in the Shaw Center for the Arts at 100 Lafayette St., beginning at 5 p.m. July 8 through 11 Central Basketball Elite Camp The camp is offered to a limited
July 8 through 12 Vacation Bible School 6 to 8:30 p.m. Galilee Baptist Church, 11050 Greenwell Springs-Port Hudson Road, will host “Colossal Coaster World” Vacation Bible School for kids ages 4 years through 6th grade. To register visit www.galileebc.com or find a link on Facebook. For information, call 654-5633 ext. 2. Wednesday, July 10 “Lady Sings the Blues” • 3 p.m. The LSU Museum of Art, located in the Shaw Center for the Arts, 100 Lafayette St., has partnered with the Manship Theater, to present “Lady Sings the Blues.” Tickets are $6 each. Saturday, July 13 Cajun Dance • 7 p.m. The Cajun French Music Association will hold a dance at the UCT Hall, 11175 Florida Blvd., 8 to 10:30 p.m. with free Cajun dance lessons at 7 p.m. The band will be Coobie Joe Cajun Band. Admission is $10, children 12 and under free, and students with I.D. is $5. Party cakes, foods and snacks welcome. No outside drinks. Moderate price bar with beer, wine, See THINGS on Page 11
REV TONY PERKINS has been named interim pastor at Greenwell Springs Baptist Church.
CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013 11
Cheerleaders Named Cheer Camp Champs
UCA CHEER CAMP AT SOUTHEASTERN — Central High’s Varsity Cheer squad attended UCA Cheer Camp at Southeastern Louisiana University June 3 through 6. The Wildcats were named Overall Camp Champs and won 1st place for their Home Pom Routine, Champ Cheer, and being Game Day Ready. They also received 3rd place in Xtreme Dance Routine. Jordan Guay, Alicen Lieux, Blaire Bauer, Mary Ellen Hodges, and mascot Christopher Harris made All-American while at camp. In addition, several seniors received applications to tryout for the UCA staff. Willie the Wildcat (right photo), aka Christopher Harris, entertained the crowd at camp.
Things to Do, Places to Go, People to See Continued from Page 10
soft drinks, and water available. You may bring your own hard liquor. July 19 and 20 Swamp Pop Music Festival The Swamp Pop Music Festi-
val will be held at the Lamar Dixon Expo Center’s Trademart building to help raise funds to fight cystic fibrosis. The music starts at 6 p.m. Friday, July 19 and 12 noon Saturday, July 20. Admission is $10 on Friday and $15 on Saturday. For information,
visit www.swamppopmusicfest.com. Thursday, July 18 Lecture, Book Signing • 6:30 p.m. J. Michael Desmond, author, professor and architect, will join Foundation for Historical Louisiana
members and guests as the featured speaker in its Heritage Lecture series at the Old Governor’s Mansion. The lecture is free for FHL members and $10 for guests. For information or to pre-register, call 387-2464 or visit www.fhl.org.
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12 CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013
Milestones Births • Engagements • Weddings • Deaths Anniversaries • Reunions
McKENZIE, SAGONA
Lauren McKenzie and Benjamin Sagona were married June 1 at Oak Lodge Reception Center.
Mrs. Benjamin Sagona
The groom was attended by his best man, Barton Sing. Groomsmen were Michael Miller and Nathan Pilet. Usher was Brad McKenzie. Ring bearer was Reed McKenzie. A reception took place at Oak Lodge following the outdoor ceremony. Following a wedding trip to Seaside, Florida, the couple will reside in Denham Springs.
Local Couple Celebrates 60th Anniversary
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bozeman
PRIDE — It was a lovely spring day in Baton Rouge, LA on June 7, 1953, when young US Marine Sgt. Paul Donald Bozeman married his beautiful bride, Kathleen Lively. They had been friends since childhood. Sixty years later they celebrate the joys of today, the memories
Meagan Roy and Austin Watts exchanged wedding vows April 13 at Journey Church in Central.
Austin Watts, Meagan Roy were Wed April 13 at Journey Church
Lauren McKenzie, Benjamin Sagona Exchanged Vows
BATON ROUGE — Lauren Ashley McKenzie and Benjamin Paul Sagona, both of Baton Rouge, were married in a 7 p.m. ceremony on June 1, 2013, at Oak Lodge Reception Center. Rev. Glen Miers officiated the ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Mark and Shelia McKenzie of Baton Rouge. She is the granddaughter of Lois McKenzie of Prairieville, the late Derrell McKenzie, Sr., and the late Otis and Versie Sharp of Greenwell Springs. The groom is the son of Paul and Charmagne Sagona of Baton Rouge. He is the grandson of Rooney Sagona of Baton Rouge, the late Sam Sagona, Frederick Copponex of Baton Rouge, and the late Catherine Copponex. The bride was attended by her matron of honor, Morgan Bellington. Bridesmaids were Annessa McKenzie and Samantha Tiblier. Flower girl was Jaydin Pilet.
ROY, WATTS
of yesterday, and the hopes of tomorrow. They were blessed in receiving the gifts of five talented children and 10 wonderful grandchildren. They currently reside in Pride, LA. John 3:16 is their favorite scripture. Kathleen is the daughter of the late Lois and Pearl Lively. She was salutatorian of her high school graduation class and still enjoys reading and keeping up with current events. Watching football games on TV is one of her favorite pastimes, but spending time with her children and grandchildren bring her the most enjoyment. Donald, a retired Baton Rouge City policeman, is the son of the late Harry and Annie Lee Bozeman. Gardening and woodworking, especially making unique walking canes, are some of his favorite things to do when he is not joking with or helping family and friends.
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CENTRAL — Meagan Ashleigh Roy, and Austin Milton Watts, both of Greenwell Springs, were married in a 5:30 p.m. ceremony April 13, 2013, at Journey Church in Central. Pastor Jay Coleman officiated. The bride is the daughter of Michael Hebert and Clarissa Hebert, of Greenwell Springs. She is the granddaughter of Robert L. Case of Denham Springs and Phyllis King, of Walker. The bridegroom is the son of Greg and Angie Watts of Greenwell Springs. He is the grandson of Jimmy and Mary Kay Watts of Greenwell Springs and Sue Ann and Gene Conerly of Greenwell Springs. The bride was attended by her maid of honor, sister, Macy Roy. Bridesmaids were Sydney Watts, Emily Moreno, Carlee Wilson, Kelsey Adams, Hollyn Capace, Shelby Criss, and junior bridesmaid, Samantha Hebert. Flower girl was Avery Jobe. The bridegroom was attended by his best man, Brandon LeSage. Groomsmen were Taylor Watts, Jake Watts, Blake O’Neal, Trev-
Mr. and Mrs. Austin Watts
or Smith, Austin Bourke, David Pugh, and usher, Jeff Robinson. Ring bearer was Grayson Watts. A reception took place at Elegant Memories. Following a wedding trip to Disneyworld, the couple will reside in their home in Greenwell Springs.
Bank of Zachary Announces Promotions
Kim McDonald and Andrea White
ZACHARY — The Bank of Zachary has promoted two of its banking officers, president Preston L. Kennedy announced. Assistant vice president Kimberly McDonald, formerly the branch manager of the Central City office, is now in charge of electronic banking. Andrea White, who served as the assistant branch manager, is now manager of the Central City office. Mrs. McDonald began her as-
sociation with the Bank of Zachary while still in high school. After working in the insurance industry and for a local credit union, she rejoined the Bank of Zachary in 2008 as the Central City manager. She was promoted to assistant vice president in 2011. Mrs. White came to the Bank of Zachary as assistant branch manager of the Central City office in April 2011. She had previous experience with a regional bank. Founded in 1904, the Bank of Zachary is the oldest State chartered bank in East Baton Rouge Parish. It is locally owned and operated with all decisions made locally. Hometown banking is Bank of Zachary’s mission and its specialty. For information, call 654-2701 or visit www.bankofzachary.com.
Katherine Lejeune, Damon Beck To Wed in Cancun, Mexico in July
Katherine Lejeune and Damon Beck
CANCUN — Katherine Lejeune and Damon Beck to wed in July. The bride-elect is the daughter of Randall and Deanie Lejeune of Baton Rouge. She is the grand-
daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Rolance Lejeune and the late Mr. and Mrs. Elter Smith. Katherine is a graduate of Central High School and Louisiana State University. She is a sales engineer for a European equipment manufacturer and resides in Prairieville. Her fiancé is the son of Danny and Mary Beck of Baker. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Lester Beck and the late Mr. and Mrs. Francis Brossette. Damon is a graduate of Baker High School and is a senior deputy with the State Fire Marshal’s Office and a personal trainer at Spectrum Fitness. Damon resides in Central. The couple will exchange vows and honeymoon in Cancun, Mexico. After the ceremony, the couple will celebrate with family and friends, including their children, Alana and Like Broussard and Kaylee, Beaux, Daylin, and Rayna Beck.
. Births , Cameron Mikaela Rogers
Alexandra Graycin and Sa-
mantha Isabelle are excited to announce the birth of their baby sister Cameron Mikaela. Proud parents are Christopher and Dawn Rogers of Central. Cameron was born April 26, 2013, at Woman’s Hospital. She weighed six pounds, 12 ounces, and was 19.5 inches long. Proud grandparents are Johnny and Jenny Rogers of Sorrento and Darryl and Barbara Williams of Central. Great-grandparents are Gloria Dupre of Baton Rouge, Joe and Othell Williams of Kentwood, and Tommy and Jane Morgan of Bogalusa.
Gavin Jesse Morain
Kaleb and Heather Penico Morain of Panama City Beach, Fla. are proud to announce the birth of their first child, Gavin Jesse. Gavin was born Jan. 23, 2013, at Sacred Heart of the Emerald Coast Hospital in Miramar, Fla. He weighed seven pounds, five ounces, and was 20.25 inches long. Proud grandparents are Dr. Jesse and Roxanne Penico of Pensacola Bleach Fla. and Dennis and Nealy Morain of Baton Rouge. Great-grandparents are Floyd and Clair Smith of Pensacola Beach, Fla., Pearl Ross of Denham Springs, Jane Kinchen of Baton Rouge and the late Alvin Emmett Ross, Jesse Morain, and Gloria and Pete Penico.
CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013 13
. Deaths , Elisabeth “Cookie” Kane
Elisabeth “Cookie” Kane, 93, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2013, in Pass Christian, Miss. surrounded by her family. She was a Veteran having served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was of the Catholic Faith. Cookie, as all knew her, was a registered nurse working in hospitals. She lived in Central until moving to the Gulf Coast in 1970. Cookie was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend to many and will be sadly missed by all that knew her. She is preceded in death by her husband, Herbert W. Kane, Jr.; parents, Ralph L. and Elisabeth Heinen Belford; brothers, William, Francis, and R.L. Belford. She is survived by her children and their spouses, William “Bill” John Kane of Bay St. Louis, Miss., Elisabeth “Candy” D’Armond and Lance of Baton Rouge, Patricia Nicosia and Michael of Baton Rouge, and Tara Stewart and Dennis of Daphne, Ala.; brother, Andrew L. Belford of Galesburg,
. Class Reunions , Saturday, August 17 Istrouma Class of ’73 Reunion Istrouma High Class of ’73 will have a reunion at Kristenwood, 14025 Greenwell Springs. Contact Rhona C. Watson, 654-7716 or rcw51055@aol.com or Debbie or Danny Wellman, 261-8358 or dwell96@bellsouth.net.
Ill.; sister, Lucie B. Blumstein of Morehead, N.C.; 10 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. The visitation was on Wednesday, June 19, 2013, from 10 am until 12 noon at St. Clare Catholic Church in Waveland, Miss. The Mass of Christian Burial was at noon. Interment was at Biloxi National Cemetery in Biloxi, Miss. Edmond Fahey Funeral Home in Bay St. Louis, Miss. was in charge of the arrangements.
Billie P. Leteff
Billie P. Leteff passed away at 2:30 a.m., Saturday, June 22, 2013, at her home in Central at the age of 75. She was a retired payroll clerk with the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board. Visitation was held at Seale Funeral Home in Central on Monday, June 24, and resumed Tuesday, June 25 at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Greenwell Springs until the Mass of Christian Burial conducted by Fr. Mike Moroney. She is survived by her husband, George A. Leteff; two daughters and sons-in-law, Robyn and Tom Tonkyro and Risa and Jay Lanier, both of Tampa, Fla. and one brother, Dr. Robert Culpepper of Houston, Texas. Preceded in death by her parents, Wiley T. and Evelyn Childress Culpepper; step-mother, Rena Mae Culpepper; and brother, Joel Culpepper. She was a member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Greenwell Springs.
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14 CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013
Color in Motion 5K Run Saturday an
lliv
Su
Devall Road
York Dr.
Famham Ave.
Dorset Ave.
Virgil Jackson Ave.
ad
Ro
d
CENTRAL — Thousands of Central residents and others from around the Baton Rouge area will gather Sat-
Color in Motion 5K
Joor Roa
When: 9 a.m., Saturday, June 29, 2013 Where: Central Intermediate School at Central School Complex, 12636 Sullivan Road, Central Why: Build a community bike/ walk path More Info: www.ColorInMotin5K.com
Core Lane
Parklane Dr.
Color in Motion 5K
Gurney Road
Central School Complex Service Road - Enter from Devall Rd.
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urday for the Color in Motion 5K at the Central School Complex on Sullivan Road. Proceeds received by the Central Community School System will be used to build a new bike and walking path. Several roadways in Central will be closed on Saturday, June 29 as part of the Color in Motion 5K Race. The roadways affected are Sullivan, Joor, and Gurney roads in the area of the new Central Community School complex on Sullivan Road. The event is expected to draw several
Jackson Park
Red River Ave. Calcasieu Ave.
Tickfaw Dr.
Ouachita Ave.
Reed Ave.
For information, go to www.ColorInMotion.com
thousand people to the city and will start and end at the school complex. The race course also includes streets in the Jackson Place subdivision. Gurney Road between Joor and Sullivan will be closed westbound starting at 7 a.m. Gurney Road will be closed in both directions starting at 8:45 a.m. Starting at approximately 8:30 a.m., Sullivan Road between Gurney and Joor will be closed. Local traffic from Jackson Place subdivision will be allowed to pass under police direc-
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tion; however, the road will remain closed completely during the actual race. Sullivan will remain closed until approximately 12:30 p.m. Joor Road will be closed between Core Lane and Gurney Rd. starting at 8:45 a.m. until approximately 10:45 a.m. Detour signs will be posted at Hooper and Joor as well as Core and Joor. Gurney Road will be open to oneway traffic eastbound after the last runner has cleared the intersection of Joor and Gurney. It is expected that Gurney Road will be re-opened to two-way traffic at approximately 11:45 a.m. The northern-most school campus driveway (to Central Middle) will remain closed, except to volunteers and staff. The only vehicles allowed on the course will be police vehicles and Color in Motion staff vehicles. Parking for participants will be on the school grounds on the south side of the school, near Gurney Road. It is recommended that you enter from the Devall Road entrance if possible. Parking will also be available at the old Central Middle School at the corner of Hooper and Sullivan, as well as at Zoar Baptist Church at the corner of Hooper and Joor. Shuttle buses will travel to and from both locations to the new school complex. The event is being sponsored in part by the Central Community School System. Funds will be used to build a new Community Bike/ Walking Path near the school complex. You may register for the event at www.centralcss.org and use the Promo Code: CENTRAL. Kids ages 6 and under may register for free.
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CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013 15
Let’s celebrate America’s Birthday, but let’s remember the fight for Liberty is never over!
It was 13 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4th, 1776 before the United States Constitution was ratified in 1789. The Bill of Rights, however, was not a part of the original Constitution. • The Bill of Rights…the first ten amendments to the Constitution…was demanded by the people of the new nation, the United States. Our rights of speech, assembly, religion…our right to keep and bear arms… our property rights…our rights that protect us from an obtrusive and aggressive federal government…and states rights…came from the demands of the citizens of our nation.
Senator Dan Claitor
• It just demonstrates that the fight for freedom and liberty must never end! • On July 4th, we celebrate our nation’s birth and we renew our fight for liberty!
Pa i d f o r b y S e n a t o r Da n C l a i t o r
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6/24/13 1:49 PM
16 CITY NEWS Thursday, June 27, 2013
Municipal Elections Set for April 5, 2014
Boé’s Comments Draw Heated Response Continued from Page 1
explanation. Boé reportedly said his remarks were taken out of context. But the two-term Metro Councilman who represents South Baton Rouge has not issued a retraction. The general response from ordinary citizens of Central to his remarks was, “What is he talking about?” Residents of Central simply don’t seem to be aware of the city’s having a “hard time” when it comes to public works, police protection, or fire protection. Meanwhile, the city’s Chief Administrative Officer, David Barrow, fired back at Boé with a letter detailing the success of the city and saying the councilman had made a false statement about Central. Barrow’s letter read as follows: “I would like to take this opportunity to respond to a completely inaccurate statement made by EBR Metro Council District 9 councilman Joel Boé in the article titled, ‘New City Sought for School District,’ which appeared in The Advocate on June 24, 2013. In the article, Mr. Boé stated that creating a new city in the southeastern part of the parish is ‘a step in the wrong direction’ and used the City of Central in a statement in an attempt to prove his point by saying, ‘Central is still, I wouldn’t say struggling, but they’re having a hard
CENTRAL FIRE DEPARTMENT has maintained a good fire rating in Central. It operates independently of the City of Central and has not changed since the incorporation of the City in 2005. Photo by Theresa Thibodeaux at Central Dental fire.
time from a public works standpoint, and a police and fire standpoint.’” “I would recommend that Mr. Boé check some facts before making such a statement in the future. The City of Central was incorporated in 2005, and officially separated from the EBR parish government in March of 2008.” “Since then, each year, the city has maintained a healthy budget surplus. For the fiscal year 2010-11, the city ended up with a $1.3 million sur-
plus (20 percent of revenues). In the 2011-12 fiscal year, a surplus of $2.1 million was recorded (32 percent of revenues); and in the 2012-13 fiscal year, a surplus of $1.7 million is expected (25 percent of revenues).” “I would hardly call that having a hard time. For the upcoming 2013-14 fiscal year starting July 1, a 22 percent budget surplus is expected. These healthy surpluses are due to prudent financial practices, non-wasteful spending, and priva-
Capital City News
Scoops the Big Boys CAPITAL CITY
NEWS Serving Baton Rouge and City of Central
Guide to Nov. 6 Election Capital Election Guide See Pages 5-11
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Thursday, October 18, 2012 • Vol. 21, No. 5 • 16 Pages • www.capitalcitynews.us • Phone 225-261-5055
The Coming Boom Natural Gas-to-Gasoline Technology Is Here Now
South Louisiana Could Be Key to Changing World Oil Dependence Woody Jenkins
Editor, Capital City News
BATON ROUGE — Revolutionary technology, which allows natural gas to be converted to synthetic gasoline that can be used in any ordinary automobile without a conversion kit, is poised to come to South Louisiana in a big way. If it does, the future of the state and, for that matter, the world could change for generations. This technology, combined with Louisiana’s massive reserves of natural gas, could completely end America’s dependence on oil imported from the Middle East, VenSHELL GAS-TO-LIQUIDS PLANT IN QATAR — Revolutionary technology, which converts natural gas to synthetic gasoline and ezuela, and other OPEC countries. can be used in automobiles without any special devices, is used in this Shell plant in Qatar and may be coming to South Louisiana. Although public officials are mum, there is little doubt that a site in St. James Parish is being considered for a massive GTL (gasto-liquids) plant that would make Louisiana central to how the world gets its energy. The technology is no theory. Shell Oil currently operates the
CATS in Disarray After Disclosure
October 18, 2012
Government-Run Bus Company Says It Can’t Keep Its Election Promises
June 11-24, 2013
See CONVERTING on Page 3
CAPITAL CITY
NEWS Baton Rouge’s
How Romney’s
CITY NEWS Thursday, May 16, 2013 17
Popular Vote in Cell Phones Record Louisiana Will Violence in Schools Affect Election
BATON ROUGE — In court testiCommunity Newspaper mony and in interviews with Baton Rouge area media, representatives of CATS (Capital Area Transit System) revealed this week that they cannot keep the promises they made to voters prior to an April 21 referendum that approved a maStudents, Teachers Secretly Recorded Cell Phone Videos jor property tax increase in Baton BATON That Capture Violence in EBR Schools. See ROUGE Page 2— State RepubRouge. The tax is being challenged lican chairman Roger Villere ® in court by local businessman Milencouraged Louisianians to take ton Graugnard. the time• 225-261-5055 and trouble to vote on Thursday, June 13,Hernandez 2013 • Vol. 22, No. 12 • 16 Pages • Serving Baton Rouge • www.capitalcitynews.us District Judge Todd Nov. 6, even though Louisiana is said Monday that he will rule withnot considered a swing state in in 10 days on whether Graugnard’s the Presidential election. suit can go forward. Villere said, “We all have a CATS, a government-owned bus right to vote but also a duty to company, had expenses of $12 milvote. So many Americans have lion a year, revenues of $10 million, fought and died so that we can and a $2 million deficit at the time have this right, and we have an they asked for an $18 million-a-year obligation to do our duty by betax increase. But their proposed $30 ing informed and voting.” million budget has collapsed, CATS Villere said Gov. Romney See CATS on Page 3 hopes to win a majority of the GRAPE STOMPING — Maggie Bowles and Christy Chachere of Baton popular vote, as well as a maRouge Convention & Visitors Bureau jority of the Electoral College. put on quite an exhibition of their grape“Louisiana’s popular vote will stomping skills during the annual AmeriPhoto by Woody Jenkins
Coach Miles Goes ‘Over the Edge’
can-Italian Festival at the Belle of Baton Rouge Atrium. See pages 12-13.
Serious Debate On Proposal To Incorporate Southeast BR Key Issues: Education, Crime
See WHY on Page 2
Only Voters Decide SE Backers Say Issue of Whether to La. Constitution Create Municipality May Not Need SOUTHEAST — The battle to create a new community school system in the southeast part of East Baton Rouge Parish is about to take on a entirely new dimension. Now supporters of the new district say they are considering launching a drive to incorporate Southeast Baton Rouge into a new municipality. Norman Browning, chairman of Local Schools for Local Children, said there are at least three reasons to form a new municipality: • Facilitate creation of the Southeast school district • Allow Southeast residents to control planning and zoning within the school district, and • Serve as a bulwark against crime in the City of Baton Rouge. Browning said no decision has been made but that the topic will begin to be discussed publicly at a
June 13, 2013
LSU coach Les Miles rappelled off One American Place to promote adoption.
LSU Coach Says It’s Time to Get Serious about Adoption of Kids BATON ROUGE — The Louisiana Family Forum says more than 100,000 children are available for adoption in the United States, including many with special needs. Here in Louisiana, more than 500 children could be adopted, and the
To Be Amended
SOUTHEAST — Supporters of the proposed Southeast Baton Rouge Community School District said Wednesday the recently-completed legislative session was far more successful than most people realize. Norman Browning, chairman of Local Schools for Local Children, said the passage of SB 199 has placed the new school district in the Louisiana Revised Statutes. “That is done. We passed the legislation through four committee hearings and both houses of the legislature. We don’t have to do that again. Now we can focus on passage of the constitutional amendment, but that’s not our only option.” Browning said
June 24, 2013
Community Press, LLC
Family Forum has set a goal of helping at least 100 of those children to find a family to permanently call their own. LSU coach Les Miles went “over the edge” to get people thinking about adoption. See LES MILES on Page 4
See WILL on Page 16
See SE BR on Page 16
GOP Nabs ex-General Counsel of Democratic Party
Key Democrats Switch to Republican Party
Our Motto: We DON’T Cover New Orleans!
Central’s No. 2 Man, State Senator Say ‘Democrats Left Us’
Central teachers Lisa O’Quinn, Julie Stevens (assistant principal) Ruby Stevens, and Judi Breaux
Publishers of Capital City News and Central City News 910 North Foster Drive • Baton Rouge, LA 70806 • 261-5055 www.centralcitynews.us • centralcitynews@hotmail.com
Photo by Woody Jenkins
BATON ROUGE — Over the past week, three key Democratic officials have announced they are switching to Republican. Two of them are black conservatives. State Sen. Elbert Guillory of Opelousas announced his change of party registration at a national conference of black conservative leaders held in Baton Rouge last week. Guillory became the first black Republican in the Louisiana BLACK, CONSERVATIVE, AND NOW REPUBLICAN — Republican parish official Dr. Trey Thomas (left) and state GOP chairman Roger Villere (center) welcomed two black conservative Democrats, Central Mayor Pro-Tem Ralph Washington (2nd) and Sen. Legislature since Reconstruction. See BLACK on Page 8
Elbert Guillory (4th), to the Republican Party, along with former Louisiana Democratic Party general counsel Randy Piedrahita (5th).
tization of most services, including public works. Copies of our budget and audit reports are available on our website, www.centralgov.com.” “Our public works division maintains an excellent work record, and we are certainly not having a hard time” “For example, for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011 and ending June 30, 2012, our public works department received a total of 2,126 work requests. At the end of that fiscal year, 96 percent of those work requests had been completed. So far this fiscal year from July 1, 2012 through May 31, 2013, a total of 1,537 public works requests have been made, and 96 percent have been completed. Additionally, all of the remaining requests from the 20112012 fiscal year have been resolved” “Most of our public works requests are resolved within 30 days. Copies of our monthly public works reports are available at our Municipal Service Center upon a public records request. We attribute the high completion rate to our privatizing the Public Works Department to IBTS, which is doing an excellent job.” “Additionally, the City of Central was able to fund two major street rehabilitation projects in the last three years, costing approximately $2 million to improve our streets. We also paid almost $1.5 million in engineering costs to design the widening of Sullivan Road from Wax to Hooper, a project which was on the City-Parish Green Light Program but was not considered to be a priority for the City-Parish administration, even though over 22,000 vehicles per day travel that two-lane section and is a major corridor from Livingston Parish into EBR Parish.” “As for the fire department standpoint, fire coverage for the City of Central is handled through the Central Fire Protection District, Chaneyville Fire District, and Pride Fire District. The Central Fire Protection District handles the majority of Central.” “These three districts were in existence before Central was incorporated, and nothing has changed. They continue to provide excellent service to our citizens through their respective districts. The City of Central is not responsible for providing fire protection services.” “Law enforcement in Central is handled by the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office and Central Police Department. The Sheriff’s Office provides excellent coverage and protection for our citizens, and the growing Central Police Department is taking on more responsibilities, particularly in the area of traffic enforcement. Central is considered one of the safest areas of EBR Parish.” “Therefore, Mr. Boé, before making such statements in the future, I would suggest that you gather factual information to distribute to the public rather than making false statements.” While Boé has not issued a retraction, Barrow said he is hoping The Advocate will run his response as a Letter to the Editor. This is not the first time Councilman Boé has created controversy in Central. When the first CATS tax was proposed, he offered the amendment to put the City of Central in the taxing district over the objection of Metro Councilman Scott Wilson, who represents Central. The CATS tax went to the voters with Central in the taxing district, and Central voted overwhelmingly against it, providing much of the margin of defeat. When the CATS tax was proposed the second time in April 2012, Mr. Boé did not object to Central’s being removed from the taxing district.