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Proud to be Zachary’s only locally owned, managed, and staffed newspaper. Zachary Post • Tuesday, May 14, 2019 • Vol. 15, No. 20 • Published Weekly • Circulation 16,000 • zacharypost.com © 2019
Fare Thee Well! The City of Zachary bid farewell to Chris Calbert, Chief Administrative Officer who officially retired last Wednesday! Calbert has served as the CAO since Mayor David Amrhein took office in 2011. With his guidance the city has been able to obtain millions of dollars through grants and other funding sources for infrastructure and disaster recovery projects. Best of luck to Chris!
Council Tackles Unpaid Utility Bills
By Mike Gennaro
The Zachary City Council met for its regularly scheduled meeting last Tuesday. Members in attendance included Lael Montgomery, Hunter Landry, Laura Obrien, Brandon Noel, and Francis Nezianya, with Mayor Amrhein presiding. A bad debt write-off for utilities in the amount of $73,284.07 sparked a lengthy discussion and dovetailed with the unveiling of a new city policy shifting the burden for unpaid utilities to property owners. The new rule will affect landlords, property managers, title attorneys, and unsuspecting home buyers that don’t check with the city before purchasing. The City of Zachary, fed up with having to write off bad debt year after year, decided to implement the change April 1, 2019, and is experiencing “100% success as it stands” according to city attorney, John Hopewell. “The amount was a couple hundred thousand a few years ago,” reported Hopewell. “It’s amazing how when you cut people off, they all of a sudden come up with the money,” stated Amrhein. The current billing cycle proce-
dure gives someone 30 days between the time the utility is utilized to the time when the bill is generated. Then, there is then a two-week time period that someone must pay. If they do not pay within the two weeks, they are already 45 days behind. That’s the time the city was having to penalize and collect for non-payment, and falling short to the degree of $73,284.07 at tax payer expense. That cost will now be absorbed by
See COUNCIL on page 3
Zachary Maypole Celebration and Hug Your People Park Dedication set for Saturday The Zachary Maypole Celebration, in conjunction with the HugYour People Park Dedication will be held on Saturday, May 18th, from 9 a.m. to noon at the new community park located at Lee and Virginia. The park serves as an entrance into the Zachary Village on Virginia Street. The public is invited to attend the ceremonial groundbreaking of The Hug Your People Park, which will begin at 9 a.m. Entertainment will be provided throughout the event by the Music Tree Prep School. The Maypole Dance, a ceremonial folk dance performed around a tall pole garlanded with ribbons will be held on the hour by Pulse Dance Studio dancers, with opportunities to learn the intricate pole weaving. In addition to entertainment, approximately 25 arts/crafts vendors will be selling everything from jewelry to vegetable plants. Your children are invited to participate in hands-on activities such as takehome canvas painting, flower plantings, sidewalk chalk paintings, face painting, balloon sculpting, outdoor games, sack races, magic acts, soap carving, old fashioned cakewalks and more! We welcome you to come explore our new bright colored train themed playground and enjoy a fun-filled day, while remembering those whose lives were tragically lost in our community. The park is in memory of Joseph Hemba, Madeline Hemba and Darrin Vince, who perished in a boating accident in 2018, Veronica Waldrop, who died of cancer in 2017 and Police Officer and Fireman, Chris Lawton, the first police officer to die in the line of duty in 2018. Jambalaya lunch will be sold and CC’s will be attendance, offering coffee and pastries. The City of Zachary and the Hug
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Your People Committee would like to thank the community first and foremost for their overwhelming support of the park. The playground park equipment and its amenities were purchased through fundraisers and the generous city partnerships of The Zachary Charity League, The Rotary Club of Zachary, The Kiwanis Club of Zachary, Farm Bureau Insurance, Armco Electric and those who participated in the engraved brick campaign. Parking for the event will be at the City Annex parking lot on Main Street or St. John The Baptist Catholic Church on Lee Street. Roads leading up to the park on Lee Street and Main will be blocked starting at 7 am. “We hope the new park will provide families safe access to quality park facilities and further enhance our beautiful Zachary Historic Village, while serving as a lasting remembrance to those who tragically lost their lives in our community,” says Mayor David Amrhein.
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POST Tuesday, May 14, 2019
In Our Community
THE 2019 ZACHARY HISTORIC ADVISORY BOARD...The Zachary Historic Village Advisory Board meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the Zachary Depot. The purpose of this board shall be to act in an advisory capacity to the Mayor and Council and to the staff of the Museum; to act as ambassadors to the citizenship, the educational community, and among museum peer groups. Recently, the Advisory Board voted to research avenues of transforming the Zachary Train Depot into a hands-on museum for children ages 5-12 years of age, as well as serve as a historical information site for adults. Committee members have been assigned to projects and have been meeting regularly to discuss ideas and options. The meetings are open to the public. Pictured Left – Sharon Turner, Chairman- Theresa Payment Chairman, Secretary - Mike Gennaro and Bob Whitaker. Right – Vice-President - Jennifer Boyd, Sharon Phillips, Jeanne Partin, Pat Artieta, Director of Historic Village - Mary Landry
SIGNED SEALED AND INSTALLED... The Louisiana Office of Tourism Secretary Doug Bourgeois and Mary Williams, Audubon Golf Trail/Encore Louisiana Commission Coordinator installed the Audubon Golf Trail Signs on Tuesday, April 16 on U.S. 61, pointing golfers to Copper Mill Golf Course. Copper Mill has held this designation for some time now, but these new signs will promote the course as officially being one of the 15 top courses in Louisiana on the prestigious Audubon Golf Trail. On hand for the picture is Secretary Doug Bourgeois, Councilwoman Laura O’Brien, Copper Mill Golf Course Pro/General Manager Jeff Strange, Copper Mill HOA President, Andre Duplantier, and Audubon Golf Trail Coordinator Mary Williams.
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COUNCIL
continued from page 1
a smaller percentage of the population—those that own property, specifically landlords. “Why should the city take the risk when you’re making the money?” asked Hopewell. He was careful to explain that the city is not mandating that property owners must pay, that it is their prerogative whether they want utilities or not. “We are treating this faceless, not looking at the person or the situ-
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ation,” he added. He mentioned that when the city moved to master metering, a policy that preceded the new change, the quality of tenant went up. Landlords did not exhibit leniency for tenants who did not have active utilities, so they removed and replaced them. Some council members voiced concern over the issue, but had their hands strapped as this was not a matter requiring a vote. “I don’t agree with shifting the whole burden to the landlord,” mentioned Councilman Nezianya. With the focus on the meter, the future is unclear whether Zachary will now become a more difficult place for renters, as many landlords will either be forced to increase deposits, go up on rents, or sue tenants. Even if landlords win judgments against non-paying tenants, the odds are that those tenants still don’t pay, leaving landlords with the first two options of raising rents or deposits or both. The effect will be a higher paying tenant and further gentrification of the city, impacting the cash strapped lower income sector of the local workforce. • In other significant news, Randy Herring, CCIM, of Derbes Falgoust Commercial Real Estate was present to request a rezone from residential to commercial general for buyers Brandon Brown and Jason Jackson, locally known for the success of The Francis Southern Table & Bar. The new 8,000 square foot building will be located across from the Zachary Youth Park (Ball Park). Herring was not at liberty to confirm whether the site would be a new location of The Francis Southern Table & Bar.
Tuesday, May 14, 2019
POST 3
PORTFOLIO NEWS...The Portfolio Club met at the Zachary Library on May 1. Guest performers were the La Petite Lagniappe Dulcimer Society. The audience was treated to a variety of tunes including classical, folk, Cajun and gospel and an original composition by Betty Kirby. Some of the selections were sing along and Portfolio members were invited to accompany the group with rhythm instruments. The group will be offering Mountain Dulcimer Lessons in Baton Rouge beginning May 6 and weekly through June 17 at the Community Bible Church in Baton Rouge, LA. One can register for the classes online at www.lagniappedulcimerBR.org Pictured Seated: La Petite Lagniappe members: L to R Peggy Broussard, Denise Odum, Betty Kirby and Helen Bankston Standing L to R are Portfolio Members: Carla Collins, Pam Hall, Margaret McKerley, Barbara Foote, Mary Lynn Mills, Nell Robertson and Mitzy Gregor.
Movies in the Park are Coming Soon Coming this summer! The City of Zachary plans to offer family-friendly movie events under the stars! The movies will be shown in the new Hug Your People Community Park, located on Lee Street, behind City Hall. Special thank you to The Zachary Charity League/Hug Your People Committee for their generous contribution toward the movie projector and speakers. “I would like to personally commend the Zachary Charity League for promoting healthy lifestyles, and for being an amazing partner. Offering family events in our park connects kids and families to the outdoors, promotes physical activity, mental health, socialization,
Councilman Hunter Landry and audio specialists from All Pro Audio test the movie projector at the Hug Your People Community Park
and a connection to nature in a safe place,” says Mayor David Amrhein.
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POST Tuesday, May 14, 2019
In Our Schools
Zachary Schools Celebrate Teacher Appreciation
Last Wedensday was the last day for ZHS Seniors. The juniors took over after the Class of 2019 left the campus! Students in Mrs. Goebel and Mrs. Jeansonne’s classes recently participated in the Explorer Challenge through National Geographic Education. Students studied archaeologist and National Geographic Explorer, Francisco Estrada Belli, and created a shadow puppet video highlighting his work. Today, they learned that Dr. Belli will pay their class a special visit next week!
Zachary High Students prepared gifts and refreshements for Teachers’ Appreciation Week, May 6 through 10.
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Tuesday, May 14, 2019
POST 5
In Our Schools Baseball Broncos End Season in Third Round of Playoffs
The Bronco Baseball Team ended their season in the Quarterfinal round of the of the LHSAA State Playoffs to West Monroe. The Broncos finished their season with a 29-10 record. The Broncos worked hard all season on the field and in the batting cages taking it one game at a time. During the season, the team stumbled several times, but was able to rebound and won the 4-5A District
Title. The Broncos went into playoffs ranked #4 in the state. The Broncos powered through Round 1 and 2 of playoffs but in round 3 the bats were just not there taking a series loss to West Monroe. Several Broncos will be going to play at the next level - Alex Milazzo at LSU, Collier Cranford at LSU, Zack Farr at LSUE and Creed David at BRCC.
Alex Milazzo hits home run off of West Monroe Pitcher. Photo by Sharron Ventura Photography.
Brady Hernandez gets the out at 2nd base. Photo by Sharron Ventura Photography.
Head coach Jacob Fisher led the Broncos to a 29-10 season record. Photo by Sharron Ventura Photography.
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POST Tuesday, May 14, 2019
In Our Wellness Community
Lane Outpatient Therapy Opens for Area Patients and Recovery
Lane Outpatient Therapy, located at 4801 McHugh Road, Suite B, (behind Lane Surgery Group) opened Wednesday, May 1st, for patients requiring physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy on an outpatient basis. Providing clinical excellence, our professional therapists utilize the latest techniques and equipment to provide personalized care for a variety of diagnoses, including: • Amputation • Arthritis • Balance disorders • Brain injury • Cancer • Cardiac
• COPD • Movement disorders • Multiple traumas • Neurological disorders • Orthopedic conditions • Parkinson’s • Post-surgical conditions • Spinal dysfunction • Sports-related injuries • Stroke • Work injuries A prescription for therapy from your physician is all that is needed to schedule therapy times that fit into your busy schedule. For more information or physician referral assistance, please call 225-658-4578.
Lane Outpatient Therapists, pictured L-R: Jennifer McNair, OT, Jessica Barnette, OT assistant, LaConya Basnight, OT, Julie Johnston, PT, Cherie Naquin, SP, Jessica Davis, PT, and Scott Baudouin, PT.
Lane Foundation Gala Set for June 8
Take a step back in time with us and enjoy a Night at the USO, Saturday, June 8th, 7 -10 p.m., all to benefit Lane Regional Medical Center Foundation. Event will be held at Hemingbough in St. Francisville and includes a Silent Auction, Wine Pull, Food, Drinks, and lots of dancing. Live music provided by Ned Fasullo & the Fabulous Big Band Orchestra. Tickets are $80.00 per person or $650 for a table. Tables come with a personal bottle of champagne and business recognition if desired. Sponsorship opportunities include name recognition, tickets, and table. St. Francisville resident Cecil Graves, III is the first patient to receive treatment at Lane Outpatient Therapy in Zachary. Physical Therapist Jessica Davis work to help him recover from a broken leg.
Tickets & Sponsorships can be purchased through the Foundation office by calling 225658-6699 or by email tpayment@lanermc.org.
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Classifieds FOR RENT. 3 bedroom/ 1 bath house located at 3850 Bank Street in Jackson, La. For info, call 225-235-1070. 1999 single wide 3 bedroom/ 2 bathroom mobile home for sale to be moved. Located in Zachary. Completely remodeled 6 years ago. Porches, stainless look appliances, washer/dryer, freezer, and entertainment center all included. $26K. Text or call 225-3350634 to set up an appointment to view. FOR SALE. Brick home 3 BR 3-1-/2 bath 2255 LA on 1.5 acre lot. 814 Maringouin Road west hwy 77 call 225-4054722. FOR RENT. 2 BR Furnished Mobile Home. Utilities and Appliances Included. West Feliciana. Call (225) 635-6061. HELP WANTED/ SERVICES OFFERED Cecil Graves Chevrolet/GMC is Looking for highly motivated salesperson Salary plus Commision. Call Chad at 225-635-3895 or 225-245-1838. Handyman/Maintenance person needed for mobile home park in West Feliciana Parish. Travel trailer with utilities and some income provided.
POST 7
Classifieds Call for details (225) 635-6061. Looking for someone to work with 35 year old individual with special needs in East Feliciana Parish. Must possess a positive and willing attitude, good cooking skills, reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, clean DMV and background check. Non-smoker and drug free a must. Weekend hours, 12 hour shift 5-5 with a rotation of PM and AM. Call (225) 279-7649. Cook position opening. Hours 6am2pm weekdays. 3 meals/day prepared for approximately 40 people. Call 225-938-1498 Childcare Teachers – P/T & F/T positions –Experience preferred. Must be a team player and dependable. If interested email your resume to Director@escdc.net, or fax 225-654-0814 or apply in person at Early Steps CDC, 1673 E Mt Pleasant Rd, Zachary, 70791. EOE. Cecil Graves GMC/Chevy looking for Parts Manager call Cecil or Kim at 225-635-3895 or email cecilgraves@ cecilgraves.com Cecil Graves GMC/Chevy looking for Technician call Cecil or Kim at 225-635-3895 or email cecilgraves@ cecilgraves.com Come grow with us! In Loving Arms Pediatric Day Health Center hiring TWO Licensed Practical Nurses to staff busy clinic. Experience in pediatrics required. Please phone 359-9777 for more information. Oakwood Village is seeking Caregivers/DSW’s for all shifts, rotating days including some weekends. Must be reliable. Must pass a background check and drug test. Apply at Oakwood Village, 4400 McHugh Rd., Zachary, LA Golf cart Mechanic needed Gayle Battery. Call Clint Gayle at Gayle battery at (225) 774-7475. Do you like to cook? Immediate opening at Lakeview Manor for a cook. Call to set up an interview today at 225-638-4404. COMPETITIVE SALARY and satisfying career in Geriatric Nursing. Lakeview Manor has IMMEDIATE OPENINGS for LPN’s with SIGN ON BONUS, for all shifts. We also have IMMEDIATE OPENINGS for CNA’s with SIGN ON BONUS and COOKS for all shifts. Call to set up an interview today at (225)638-4404. MISCELLANEOUS/ ITEMS FOR SALE Cross Creek Cowboy Church. Sundays breakfast 9:30, service 10:30. 21160 Plank Road, Zachary. Come as you are. Crosscreekcowboychurch.com I will pay for your scrap metal and junk cars. Call (225)276-4273.
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POST Tuesday, May 14, 2019
BREC Unveils Zoo Plans to the Public at Zachary Library
BREC planners unveiled sweeping changes for the 103-acre complex and an adjacent park last week, calling the work to be done a “reinvention” rather than a renovation. The Baton Rouge Recreation and Parks Department intends to transform the outdated zoo and the adjacent Greenwood Community Park into a cornerstone of culture, entertainment and animal education. Public and private money, perhaps into the millions of dollars, will fund the multi-phased overhaul paid. “The re-invention concentrates on addressing the zoo’s accreditation issues,” said Ace Torre of Torre Design Consortium, the New-Orleans based firm handling the master plan concepts for the zoo. The proposed ideas prepared ahead of public meetings Thursday include upgrades to Greenwood Park, including plans to shutter the larger of two golf courses at the site. BREC Superintendent Corey Wilson said the golf courses don’t generate enough annual revenue to sustain themselves, making them a financial burden. They’ve cost the parks system more than $3.6 million over the past six years. Re-purposing would mean folding the shuttered golf course into the planned upgrades for Greenwood Park. Thursday’s meetings are the second round BREC has hosted regarding the park system’s zealous attempt to revamp the park and nearly 50-year-old zoo. The first round of meetings took place in January in which the two
consulting firms spearheading the preliminary design plans for the projects received public input that influenced the plans that were revealed Thursday. Consultants said nearly 700 residents completed surveys pinpointing desired amenities and programs. Several touched on themes of wanting the projects to “change the perception of North Baton Rouge,” highlighting nature and animal habitats, and adding walking trails, playground areas, water trails and aerial sports options at Greenwood Park. Renovation of the zoo is critical if the facility is to regain its accreditation status from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. An overwhelming number of people felt the park and zoo should be better connected and the zoo’s entrance moved from Thomas Road and integrated within Greenwood Park, he said. The zoo rehabilitation will likely roll out in phases, with the first set to roll out by spring 2022 and include revamping the zoo’s entryway and addressing all the issues cited by the AZA accreditation board. BREC is prepared to allocate half of the money it will take to implement the first phase, which Wilson estimated at around $20 million. Wilson said the parks system will look to federal funding and the philanthropic community to make up the difference. Private investors will play an integral role in financing the other phases in the preliminary plans, with implementation in phases between
Proposed combined Zoo/ Greenwood Park rendering.
2027 and 2032. The conceptual design for the zoo centers around a loop system that folds some existing features,
like the popular train, into the new layout while expanding on current exhibits and proposing a few new ones. A food court, carousel, splash pads, gift shop and mixed-use spaces were other amenities included in the proposed plans for the zoo. BREC has posted an online survey where people can preview the preliminary plans and offer feedback. The public can mix and match features from each design to combine into the final design proposals that will be unveiled later this year. The final plans for both projects will be an integral focus of the fundraising campaign that pay for the changes.
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