General Excellence Press Association CENTRALCENTRAL CITYCITY National Newspaper Assn. Future Improvements to Central High

® Will Be on Election Ballot May 9 & The Leader NEWSNEWSJanuary 2020 • Vol. 23, No.1 • 16 Pages • Circulation 10,000 • 30,000 online • www.centralcitynews.us • 225-261-5055 Central’s to Oversee General Appropriations Bill Sen. White Heads Finance Central High’s Senator Will Play Andrew Medine Major Role in State Nominated to Appropriations Bill, Naval Academy Capital Outlay Bill CENTRAL - Central High Stu- Woody Jenkins dent Council president and foot- Editor ball star Andrew Medine has been BATON ROUGE - Sen. Bodi White nominated for (R-Central), who was sworn in the Monday for his third term in the Naval Academy Louisiana Senate, will be appoint- in Annapolis by ed chairman of the powerful Sen- Congressman ate Finance Committee by new- . ly-elected Senate President Page Medine ap- Cortez (R-Lafayette). plied in Novem- Although White has long been ber. His applica- an influential member of the upper Andrew Medine tion now goes body, this will be his first senior to the Naval Academy admis- leadership position. sions board. Members of Con- The jurisdiction of the commit- gress may nominate candidates tee includes: for the Naval Academy, the • General appropriations bill U.S. Military Academy, the Air • Revenue sharing Force Academy, and the Mer- • The cash portion of the com- chant Marine Academy. Admis- prehensive state capital budget sion provides the opportunity • All other appropriations for a four-year scholarship to • Budgetary requirements and the Academy and a commission procedures in the Navy or the Marines. • Fiscal controls Andrew is the son of Jona- • Central purchasing than and Megan Medine. His • Economy and efficiency of

dad is a former Marine. Provost Jolice by Photo Andrew is interested in a ca- government operations reer in the military and would SEN. (R-Franklinton) is shown with Sens. Rogers Pope (left) and Bodi White represented Central in White (right) after her election as President Pro-Tem of the Louisiana Senate. Sen. White the Louisiana House from 2004 to like to serve in Special Forces. nominated her for the post. He is expected to named chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. Both Sens. Pope and White represent parts of Central in the Senate. 2012 and in the Senate since 2012. Four Qualify for District Judge in Central Central Could Decide Which Democrat Wins Judgeship on April 4 CENTRAL — On April 4, voters in the northern part of East Baton Rouge Parish will go to the polls in a special election to choose a re- placement for District Judge Beau Higginbotham. The person chosen will serve only a few months, be- See SHERIFF on Page 6 cause the seat will be filled for a full six-year term in the election on Nov. 3. Demographic changes in the northern judicial sub-district have made it increasingly difficult for a Republican to be elected. As a result, the four candidates in the April 4 special election are all Democrats. Now voters in Central who gen- erally favor Republicans will have the opportunity to decide which of the Democrats to support. That Evanst Shane by Photo support could conceivably deter- See CENTRAL on Page 6 TIFFANY FOXWORTH is a conservative Democrat and U.S. Army veteran seeking a District Judgeship from Central on April 4. 2 CENTRAL CITY NEWS January 2020 Central Rep. , Rep. On Opposite Sides of Race for House Speaker

OPENING PRAYER — Outgoing House Speaker Taylor Barras led in an opening prayer Monday. Shortly thereafter, the House elected Rep. as Speaker. BATON ROUGE — On election new Senate would have 27 Repub- style of governance to the State However, in the House, things night, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, licans and 12 Democrats, while Capitol, even with a Democrat, played out very differently. Back Louisiana voters went to bed af- the House would have 68 Republi- Gov. , on the 4th in December, two-thirds of the Re- ter learning Republicans had won cans, 35 Democrats, and two with floor. In the Senate, the Republican publican caucus and most strong huge majorities in the Louisiana no party affiliation. caucus rallied around Sen. Page conservatives in the House voted Senate and House of Representa- It appeared Republicans would Cortez, who was elected Senate to support Rep. Sherman Mack tives. Final returns showed the be able to bring a new conservative President Monday. See 23 GOP on Page 3 Do You Need Experienced Investment Advice? Are You Retiring? Do You Need Experienced Investment Advice? Are You Already Retired And Would Like An Experienced Jeanne and Darryl Hickman Ian James “We’ve been clients 10 years. Ian is one of the best things that ever hap- 2nd Opinion? pened to us. He’s literally changed our lives. We highly recommend Ian Ian James James.” Watch interview below: Capital Financial Group Download 8550 United Plaza Boulevard (225) 261-9606 QR Reader Suite 702 Scan Baton Rouge, LA 70809 here Phone (225) 261-9606 [email protected] Serving Central Since 1994 Website: 225Wealth.com Member, Central Masonic Lodge 442 704 Texas Avenue Served on Board of CABA and Securities by licensed individuals offered through Bridge City, TX 77611 Investacorp, Inc., a registered broker/dealer. (409) 792-0179 Central Chamber • MBA, LSU Member, FINRA, SIPC

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DIVIDED ON SPEAKER’S RACE — Rep. Barry Ivey (left) supported the election of Rep. Clay Schexnayder (right), while Rep. Valarie Hodges supportered the GOP choice. 23 GOP, 35 Democrats Backed Governor’s Candidate Continued from Page 2 jaws of victory. Sherman Mack, while Ivey sup- concern about dividing the Re- of Albany for Speaker. However, Central’s two members of the ported Rep. Clay Schexnayder. publican caucus and turning over Rep. Clay Schexnayder who lost Louisiana, Republican Reps. Vala- Rep. Hodges said she admired an unknown number of commit- the battle for Speaker in the Re- rie Hodges and Barry Ivey, ended Rep. Schexnayder for the conser- tee chairmanships and even ma- publican caucus, continued his up on different sides of the Speak- vative stand he has normally tak- jority control of some committees campaign and sought the support er’s race. Hodges supported Rep. en on issues, but expressed grave to Democrats, who have become of the 35 House Democrats and more and more liberal. Hodges, two independents. like many of Mack’s supporters, Gov. Edwards weighed in on House GOP Leader: Vote a Blow to Conservatives said that once again the governor Schexnayder’s behalf and ultimate- has wrestled away control of the ly delivered. On Monday, the hopes Rep. legislature. of clear Republican control of the House Republican Leader Rep. Ivey said he sees things dif- legislative process in Louisiana at Ronald Reagan Newsmaker ferently. “The Democrats had to were dashed when Schexnayder Luncheon on Jan. 14, 2020 choose between two conservative won the Speaker’s race 60-45. With Republicans. Clay is a strong con- Edwards’ support, he put together To Watch, Go servative, and he’s not butt hurt. a coalition of 23 Republicans, in- to App Store, He’ll be a gracious victor.” Ivey cluding almost all of the moderates download QR said he is more concerned about in the GOP caucus, all 35 Demo- Code Reader, policy than politics, and this ap- crats, and the two independents. Point Phone at proach will produce greater victo- Despite their commanding 68- QR Code ries on policy. 35-2 majority in the House, Re- He said, “Give Clay a chance. publicans snatched defeat from the I’m excited and optimistic!”

Quickly and Easily Refill RX Online Download Our New Improved Phone App iPhone and Android 4 CENTRAL CITY NEWS January 2020 Speaker Appoints Committee Chairmen, Fills Committees Rep. Clay Schexnayder Elected Speaker

INAUGURATION DAY — Memorial Hall (left); House Speaker Taylor Barras congratulates new Speaker, Clay Schexnayder, and Speaker Schexnayder.

SWEARING IN — At left, Rep. Clay Schexnayder being sworn in; at center, Rep. taking oath as Speaker Pro-Tem, and at right, new Clerk Michelle Fontenot.

Congressman Garret Graves (left); Rep. and Mrs. ; former Rep. Woody Jenkins and Rep. Ted James, and Congressman Steve Scalise

LOUISIANA SENATE — Sen. and Mrs. Bodi White of Central and Sen. Eddie Lambert of Ascension January 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 5 COMMUNITY PRESS, LLC St. George Leader CENTRAL CITY NEWS & Vol. 1 • No. 3 The Leader Vol. 23 • No. 1 • CCN No. 435 Post Office Box 2 Post Office Box 1 City of St. George, LA 70801 City of Central, LA 70739

910 North Foster Drive Vol. 3 • No. 2 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Phone (225) 261-5055 • Entire contents © 2019 Email stories and photos for all papers to [email protected] Published Monthly The Leader was founded April 30, 1998. The Central City News was founded April 21, 2005. They merged May 4, 2006. The St. George Leader began publication on Oct. 3, 2019. The North Baton Rouge Journal began on August 11, 1966 and went on hiatus in 1976. It resumed publication as the Istrouma Journal on April 6, 2017.

Editor & Publisher Woody Jenkins Business Manager Jolice Provost Account Executive Kim Powers

Member, Louisiana Press Association and Chamber of Commerce of EBR Parish Deadline for news and advertising: 5 p.m. Friday before publication $24 a year by subscription in advance • $36 a year outside the U.S.A. FORMER REP. WOODY JENKINS, now editor of the Central City News, on his way to the front of the Capitol Monday to cover the Inauguration of Gov. John Bel Edwards. A Stroll through Capitol on Inauguration Day over for absent members. It was a After 28 Years There, common, everyday occurrence. Worst of all was the lack of Every Scene in Capitol knowledge by members of what they were voting on. At the begin- Brings Back Memories, ning of the session, loose leaf bind- ers appeared under each member’s Yet I Can’t Say I Miss It desk. They contained a copy of the Woody Jenkins original bill of every bill filed dur- Editor ing the session. However, after that, members did not received a copy BATON ROUGE - A stroll through of the engrossed bill containing the Capitol on Inauguration Day the House committee amendments. this past Monday brought back Moreover, floor amendments were memories, some from long ago. not passed out for members to read. The State Capitol has been some- If a bill were amended in the Sen- thing of a second home for me for ate, House members never saw the past 56 years. Not only the 28 the reengrossed bill containing the years I represented Baton Rouge in LIKE A HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR CLASS, all legislators who served for a four-year changes. Members simply relied on the Louisiana House of Representa- term in the new State Capitol are memorialized with a “class picture” on the walls of the the explanation of the author at the lobby outside the House Chamber. To me, the faded faces are not curiosities. They come tives from 1972 to 2000 but also the alive in my mind. I see them laughing, telling stories at the microphone, fighting hard mike. Unfortunately, the authors eight years before that and the 20 for the things they believed. I see friends and colleagues but no enemies. The battles that were often mistaken or even lied years since. were fought in the heat of the moment fade but the spirit of each one who came here to about the contents. My first Inauguration Day was in represent his people still lives in my mind. I served from 1972 to 2000 but had friends All of this is difficult to believe 1964. Gov. John McKeithen was in- from classes before and after. This Class of 1952 was before my time but two dear friends today but was absolutely true. augurated for his second term. The pop out at me — Rep. Rolfe McCollister of Baton Rouge and Rep. Ford Stinson of Ben- Before 1972, the old ways of ton. Rolfe was elected without campaigning while fighting in Korea. He was a dear friend the era were still alive. new House and Senate were sworn and was influential in getting me to pop the question to my wife! Ford was a brilliant at- in. Many new legislators arrived to torney who knew more about how to kill a bad bill than anyone I ever served with. Bob Old ways die hard, especially when make their mark on Louisiana poli- are gone now but their memories light up my heart! they are the stock-in-trade of pow- tics. However, I had eyes for only erful people. Nevertheless, in 1972, two of them — new Reps. Mor- House Chamber. They could sit at but not always with their permis- things changed suddenly and dra- ley Hudson and Taylor O’Hearn, a member’s desk and vote his ma- sion. One lobbyist might control a matically at the Capitol. Court- the first Republicans elected to the chine for him, even if he were away block of votes and other lobbyists ordered reapportionment into sin- Louisiana Legislature since Recon- from the Capitol. Sometimes lobby- might have their own. I often saw gle-member districts resulted in 65 struction. ists would “handle” 10 or 15 voting Mr. Victor Bussie, president of the new members of the 105-member They were two of the finest men machines for absent members, often Louisiana AFL-CIO, vote over and See A STROLL on Page 11 I’ve ever known. I served as their legislative page. Things were very different in 1964. Before 1972, the House oper- ated in what I consider a deplorable fashion. Eating and drinking was al- lowed on the House floor. By late afternoon, some members often be- gan to drink the hard stuff. A night time session was invariably marked by members’ misbehavior. Members eating at their desk while debate was going on would throw chicken bones and other food at one another. A veritable food fight! It was unbelievable really, consid- ering the seriousness of the work. Yet, eating in the Chamber and ON INAUGURATION DAY IN 1972 (left), I took my seat next to my new seatmate, Rep. Richard Baker. We were to the two young- drinking alcohol were in some ways est members of the legislature at ages 23 and 24. The members of the House played the Senate at the LSU Cow Palace. There’s Reps. the least of the problems. Lobby- James David Cain, Kevin Reilly, Ken Leithman, me, and Sgt. at Arms Dick Barrios. Then there’s Rep. Dennis Hebert, Richard Baker, ists were allowed in the rails of the and Speaker of the House Bubba Henry. At right, I am at my desk during the mid-1980’s. Chamber of Commerce Ronald Reagan of East Baton Rouge Newsmaker Luncheon Candidates for Judgeships Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020 Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020 Lunch 12n $19.50 • Café Américain 7521 Jefferson Highway Sponsored by Republican Party of EBR 11:30 Reception • 12 Lunch • $19.50$19 “Like”“Like” CapitalCapital RepublicanRepublican Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Café Américain • 7521 Jefferson Hwy. on Facebook or go to www.ChamberEBR.com No Reservation Necessary CapitalRepublican.com 6 CENTRAL CITY NEWS January 2020 LHSAA Division I Game Day Spirit Champions Central Cheerleaders: Best in State CENTRAL — The Central High School Varsity Cheerleaders have successfully launched their com- Central Will Play petition season by winning a 2019 Louisiana High School State Spirit Leading Role in Championship. In addition to cheering for the Electing Judge Central High School basketball programs, they are preparing for a Saturday, April 4 return to the National High School Continued from Page 1 Cheerleading Championship mine the outcome. The four can- (NHSCC) Feb. 7-9 in Orlando to didates who qualified are: defend their back-to-back National • Judge Yvette Alexander Gameday titles. who serves on Baton Rouge City The CHS Varsity Cheerleaders Court are coached by Amy Felps Ste- • Attorney Tiffany Foxworth vens. Amy is a graduate of Central • Attorney Eboni Johnson- High and a former Wildcat cheer- Rose, daughter of newly-elected leader herself. This year marks her 2019-2020 CENTRAL HIGH VARSITY CHEERLEADERS — First row: Jolie District Judge Ron Johnson 19th year of coaching and her third Pruyn, Chloe Graham, Madison Bonnett, Aliye Ringe, Riley McLin, Bailey Mitchell, • Jennifer Moisant, an attor- year as Central’s coach. and Menyon Brister. Second row: Kallie Watts, Abby Guidry, Lexi Lambert, Sarah ney who serves as chairwoman Sharon Ball has served as the Grace Lieux, Anna Sanches, Cassidy Young, Ava Denham, Tristen Eaton, and Anne- of the Council on Aging, which varsity teams Moderator for the Marie Ross. Third row: Makayla Smith, Danielle Sttterwhite, Emmy McClure, Hay- has become the leading organi- past seven years. She is also the ley Wall, Taylor Richard, Kenleigh Perrin, and Nia Jerro. zation transporting Democratic Central High school nurse. voters to the polls during early Mitchell. CHS varsity cheerleaders perform voting and on election day. Chloe Graham serves as captain The team will perform at several follow them on Facebook at CHS All of the candidates are of the 2019-2020 team, with co- showcases locally before leaving Varsity Cheer or on Instagram at Democrats, although they bring captains Riley McLin and Bailey for Nationals. To find out when the chswildcatcheer. very different backgrounds and views to the race. Tiffany Foxworth, a conser- vative Democrat, has already begun making an appeal to Re- publican voters in Central, em- phasizing her pro-family stand and her background as a veteran of the . The northern sub-district, which includes Baker, Cen- tral, Zachary, and nearby areas has been trending Democrat for years. In the Oct. 12, 2019 primary, voters in the district elected a Democrat, City Judge 2020 ESSAY CONTEST Tarvald Smith, to the seat over Republi- can attorney Beau Brock DEMCO is committed to by 53 per- cent to 47 percent. In our community. the Nov. 16, 2019, runoff for a district judgeship from the High school juniors same north- Yvette Alexander ern subdistrict, Democrat Ron can enter the 2020 rural Johnson defeated Republican Metro Councilman Trae Welch by 57 percent to 43 percent. In Electric youth the runoff, 10,000 more voters went to the polls. As recently as 2014, Repub- tour essay Contest. lican candidates dominated rac- es for the three of four District Winners will receive an Court judgeships on the ballot from the northern sub-district: all-expense paid trip • Republican Judge Todd Hernandez defeated challenger Democrat Colett Greggs 53 to to WASHINGTON, D.C.! 47 percent. • Judge Richard Anderson, a Entries due by January 24. Republican, defeated Democrat For rules and information visit demco.org attorney Joyce Plummer 54 per- cent to 46 percent. • Republican attorney Beau Higginbotham defeated Demo- crat attorney Cleveland Coons by 52 percent to 48 percent. The primary in the election will be held April 4 with a run- off if necessary on May 9. The Presidential Primary will be on the ballot April 4, which should contribute to vot- er turnout on the Democrat side. The May 9 runoff should be a low-turnout affair with little else on the ballot. In Central, /DEMCOLouisiana voters will decide on whether to renew a property tax for school purposes. January 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 7 Republican Party of East Baton Rouge Parish Conservatives Keep Control of GOP At Least 16 of 17 Seats on PEC Stay in Hands of Conservatives BATON ROUGE — Conservatives have had working control of the Re- publican Party of East Baton Rouge Parish since 2012. Now their influ- ence in the party has been extended for at least another four years. Almost the entire membership of the 17-member Republican Par- ish Executive Committee has been reelected without opposition. The committee, which is composed of conservatives, includes four wom- en and four minorities. CANDIDATES FOR REPUBLICAN PARISH EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE — Having breakfast at Christina’s last Wednesday be- Meanwhile, local Democrats are fore walking over to City Hall to qualify for election, local Republicans discussed the upcoming election. Shown (left to right) are Rep. mired in controversy, and 46 can- Scott McKnight, Jay Lindsey, Mike Chittom, Rev. Tommy French, Barbara Thomas, Scott Wilfong, former Rep. Woody Jenkins, Cecil didates representing a number of Cavanaugh, school board member Connie Bernard, former Sen. Dan Richey, and former Rep. Shirley Bowler. At right is Edress Landry factions are seeking 17 seats on the Democratic Parish Executive Com- mittee. Of the 46 Democratic can- didates, 37 are , eight are white, and one is listed as other. How PEC Is Elected. Under Louisiana law, each major political party is governed at the parish level by a Parish Executive Committee, or PEC, which is elected by vot- ers registered with that party at the time of the Presidential Primary in CLERK OF COURT DOUG WELBORN with candidates Scott Wilfong, Cecil Cavanaugh, Laurie Adams, and Barbara Thomas. Presidential election years. In each parish, five members of the PEC are elected at large parishwide, and one member is elected from each Police Jury or Metro Council district. The parish party chairman is elected by members of the Parish Executive Committee. Louisiana’s Presidential Primary is scheduled for April 4. Qualifying for candidates for the PEC for each party ended last Friday. On the Republican side, almost the entire membership of the East Baton Rouge Republican Parish Executive Committee was decided REV. TOMMY FRENCH, the oldest PEC member at 90, with Clerk of Court Doug Welborn and former Sen. Dan Richey; law student when qualifying closed. Conner Graham; former Rep. Shirley Bowler, and Major George Francis (U.S. Army retired). One person and only one person qualified for each of the 12 execu- CANDIDATES FOR tive committee seats to be elected EAST BATON ROUGE REPUBLICAN PARISH EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE from the 12 Metro Council districts in the parish. So all 12 were elected AT-LARGE (Vote for Five) without opposition. Cecil Cavanaugh (New) Conner Graham (New) Six candidates qualified for the CPA • Chairman, Chamber of Commerce of EBR Law Student five at-large seats. So Republicans Major George Francis (New) Rep. Woody Jenkins (Incumbent) who go to the polls on April 4 will US Army Retired • Financial Advisor 28 Years in La. House • Newspaper Editor get to cast five votes for those six Rev. Tommy French (Incumbent) Rep. Scott McKnight (Incumbent) candidates. Pastor, Jefferson Baptist for 65 Years Insurance Executive East Baton Rouge Parish Repub- lican chairman Woody Jenkins con- Metro Council District 1 - Councilman John Coghlan (Incumbent) (Unopposed) firmed that all 12 PEC candidates Supervisor at Exxon • Former Zachary City Councilman from the Metro Council districts and five of the six at-large can- Metro Council District 2 - Edress Landry (New) (Unopposed) didates are conservative activists 33 Years Experience in Broadcasting • Volunteer in Campaigns who wish to continue the current Metro Council District 3 - Richie Edmonds (Incumbent) (Unopposed) direction of the party in the parish. Business Owner • Real Estate He said, “All members of the Metro Council District 4 - Mayor Jr. Shelton (Incumbent) (Unopposed) Executive Committee are solid Former Business Owner and Realtor • Former Mayor of City of Central conservatives who strongly sup- Metro Council District 5 - Barbara Thomas (Incumbent) (Unopposed) port President Trump.” The PEC Director of Ministry to Pregnant Women • Wife of Pastor endorsed Eddie Rispone during the recent Governor’s election. Metro Council District 6 - Sen. Dan Richey (Incumbent) (Unopposed) The East Baton Rouge Parish Former Newspaper Editor • TV News Director • Attorney • 8 Years in Legislature Republican Party is the largest in Metro Council District 7 - Michael Chittom (Incumbent) (Unopposed) the state in terms of participation, Business Owner • Former Parish Republican Chairman • Board of Election Supervisors Jenkins said. “More Republicans in Metro Council District 8 - Scott Wilfong (New) (Unopposed) this parish actually go to the polls Business Owner • Political Consultant • Notary • State Republican Parliamentarian and vote than in any other parish in Metro Council District 9 - Jay Lindsey (Incumbent) (Unopposed) the state,” he said. Retired Business Owner The local Republican Party is Metro Council District 10 - Rep. Shirley Bowler (New) (Unopposed) known for its endorsement of con- Former State Legislator • Business Owner • Editor, Insurance Publication servative candidates. The party asks candidates more than 60 policy is- Metro Council District 11 - Laurie Adams (New) (Unopposed) sues, and how candidates stand on Former LSU SGA President • Director of Advancement, Parkview Baptist School the issues is a very important part Metro Council District 12 - Connie Bernard (Incumbent) (Unopposed) Member, East Baton Rouge Parish School Board • Business Owner See REPUBLICAN on Page 10 8 CENTRAL CITY NEWS January 2020 Gov. John Bel Edwards Sworn in for 2nd Term during Inaugural Ceremonies

Gov. John Bel Edwards takes oath as Louisiana governor. Inauguration Day at Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge on January 13, 2020

Lt. Gov. speaking at Inaugural ceremonies Gov. John Bel Edwards introduced by Dan Borné.

Central City News Coverage of Louisiana Inaugration Day Jan. 13, 2020

Photos by Jolice Provost Video by Woody Jenkins of Central City News

To Watch, Go to App Store, download QR Code Reader, Point Phone at QR Code

Louisiana state officials Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser, Secretary of State , Treasurer , Attorney General , Chief Justice Bernette Johnson, and Insurance Commissioner .

Photos by Jolice Provost Central City News January 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 9 Gov. John Bel Edwards Sworn in for 2nd Term during Inaugural Ceremonies

Inauguration Day at Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge on January 13, 2020 The U. S. Military Academy Glee Club enters the Inauguration ceremonies

Gov. John Bel Edwards introduced by Dan Borné.

The U. S. Military Academy Glee Club singing at the Inauguration of West Point graduate John Bel Edwards

Louisiana state officials Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser, Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin, Treasurer John Schroder, Attorney General Jeff Landry, The combined choirs of Centenary College, Grambling State, and Southern University sang. Chief Justice Bernette Johnson, and Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon. 10 CENTRAL CITY NEWS January 2020 Central Intrasquad Baseball Game

The Central Wildcat baseball team gained game experience with an intrasquad contest in December.

Central High School • Wildcats’ Intrasquad Baseball Game • Photos by Shane Evans of Central City News Republican Parish Executive Committee Governs Party Continued from Page 7 Jenkins said the most impor- school board,” Jenkins said. Jenkins said the main goals of of the endorsement process. The tant role played by the Republican The parish Republican Party the Republican Party of East Baton party promotes its endorsements Party of East Baton Rouge Parish showcases conservative ideas and Rouge Parish this year will be to re- through social media,TV, and local is helping voters, especially Re- Republican candidates and public elect Donald Trump as President and newspapers and other publications. publican voters, know the candi- officials at the monthly Ronald maximize Republican strength in The Republican Party of East dates. “The endorsement process Reagan Newsmaker Luncheon, City-Parish government. Baton Rouge Parish was one of is mainly about letting voters know which is held at 12 noon on the One project of the local GOP this the first local county Republican who is running, their qualifica- second Tuesday of each month at year will be to increase the influence organizations in the nation to en- tions, and their stand on the issues.” Café Américain, 7521 Jefferson of black Republicans in Baton Rouge. dorse Donald Trump for President. “We are very pleased that despite Highway. At this week’s meet- The party is launching the Freder- That endorsement came in January the fact that Hillary Clinton carried ing, the group heard from Rep. ick Douglass Newsmaker Luncheon 2016. The party helped host the first East Baton Rouge Parish by more Blake Miguez, the newly-elected to involve black Republicans in the Trump rally in Louisiana at the Ba- than 20,000 votes, we have been Republican leader in the Louisi- party and showcase their views. The ton Rouge RiverCenter, and Jenkins able to reelect our Republican Sher- ana House of Representatives. As effort is led by retired Army Major introduced the future President. iff, Assessor, Clerk of Court, and usual, it was covered by the major George Francis, who will chair the The local party opened the Trump Coroner. In addition, Republicans media in Baton Rouge and broad- luncheon. For information, contact headquarters in Baton Rouge and hold a majority of the seats on the cast live by the Central City News Woody Jenkins at woodyjenkins@ ran his local campaign. Metro Council and on the parish on Facebook. hotmail.com or call 225-921-1433. January 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 11 Wes Watts Inducted into Hall of Fame

FORMER CENTRAL HIGH athlete and coach Wes Watts has been inducted into the Central High Hall of Fame. Shown with Jodie, Kellie, Danielle, Grayson, Tyler, and Remi

West Baton Rouge Parish Schools Supt. Wes Watts (center) was praised by his son Tyler (CHS Class of 2011) and daughter Kellie (CHS Class of 2013).

Central High students gathered to honor Wes Watts (left). The centerpieces at the tables recognized Wes’ athletic success. At right, a dapper Coach Sid Edwards praised Wes Watts. A Stroll through the State Capitol on Inauguration Day Continued from Page 5 to be Speaker of the House. We ad- the Louisiana House of Representa- forms in 1972 were the most signif- House. I was part of that freshman opted new Rules the first day we tives — and the Senate — forever. icant and did more to improve the group, which elected Bubba Henry were in session, rules that changed The first thing we did was end quality of the decisions made at the eating and drinking in the House Capitol than anything else. Chamber. The second thing was The Constitutional Convention prohibit lobbyists from coming in- of 1973 came on the heels of the side the rails of the House. The third changes by the legislature in 1972. thing was to require that copies of As a result, CC/73 included in its the bills be printed with committee rules all of the procedural changes Victory Academy amendments, that floor amendments est.1980 made by the House. Without ques- be printed and passed out, and that tion, these reforms enhanced the Senate amendments to House bills quality of the decisions made at the MINISTRY OF VICTORY HARVEST CHURCH be printed and made available to the convention. members. I am very proud to have served PRE-K - 8TH At first this was only done for the in the House and at CC/73 during members who requested it but not those historic times. I will always “A love for learning brings us together long afterwards they were distrib- be grateful to the people of Baton uted to everyone. Rouge for giving me the chance to a desire for excellence sets us apart.” The proposal to expel the lobby- represent them for 28 years, longer ists from the House chamber was than anyone has represented the bitter and divisive. I cannot remem- city in the House in state history. ber anything in the legislative pro- However, I don’t miss being at 3953 N. Flannery Rd. cess that was more obviously wrong the legislature everyday. For me, it that people, especially organized la- was a season in life when I learned 225-272-8339 bor, fought to maintain. They talk- a great deal and hopefully made a ed, lobbied and threatened, but the contribution. But there are other Non-discriminatory admissions policy House members wouldn’t budge. challenges in life, and leaving the In the 56 years I’ve been coming legislature in 2000 gave me the op- to the Capitol, I believe those re- portunity to explore many of them! 12 CENTRAL CITY NEWS January 2020 CHS Baseball Fundraiser Packs House

WILDCAT BASEBALL FUNDRAISER — Central’s Jazz Band and Philadelphia Phillies star pitcher Aaron Nola packed the house for a Wildcat baseball fundraiser. The Wildcats won the State 5A Championship in 2017 and 2018.

Gina Smily with Catholic High and LSU star Aaron Nola, who now plays for the Philadelphia Phillies.

FUNDRAISING SUCCESS — A silent auction brought in needed funds for the Wildcat baseball team (left). Cen- tral High School’s new head baseball coach, Leo McClure, addressed the crowd of 500 who gathered for the event.

Central High Baseball Fundraiser Photos by Shane Evans Aaron Nola Photo by Ann Phistry Huge crowd turned out to support Central High baseball.

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The Polar Express themed Breakfast with Santa at St. Aphonsus was a hit! Children moved through different activities that brought the joy of Christmas into their heart.

Welcome ticket center came first and then breakfast, on to games and making of reindeer food. A joyful Mrs. Claus read the children a story in a festively decorated room.

Phil and Ann Phistry with their daughter-in-law Angel and granddaughter Breanna, Elizabeth Norwood announces the winning tickets. Matthew Johnson leading the Polar Express St. Alphonsus Breakfast with Santa • Photos by Jolice Provost of Central City News

225-261-2995 DavidDavidDavid P.P.P. Fargason,Fargason,Fargason, M.D.M.D.M.D. RobertRobertRobert Geier,Geier,Geier, O.D.O.D.O.D. ervices: Lewis Wrecker Service, Inc. Services:ervices: Family Owned and Operated since 1956 SS• NEW LASER Cataract/Implants Family Owned and Operated since 1956 • • NEW NEW Tecnis LASER LASER Multifocal Cataract/Implants Cataract/Implants and Tecnis ToricTecnis Lenses Multifocal Multifocal for Astigmatism and and • Glaucoma/Laser Toric Toric Lenses Lenses for for Astigmatism Astigmatism Remember When? ••• Glaucoma/Laser LASIKGlaucoma/Laser BLADE FREE Lewis Cafe on ••• LASIK EyeLASIK Examinations BLADE BLADE FREE FREE ••• Eye ContactEye Examinations Examinations Lenses Airline Highway ••• Contact OpticalContact Lenses Lenses •• Optical Optical in the 1950’s • Diabetic Eye Exams David P. Fargason, MD in the 1950’s •• Diabetic Diabetic Eye Eye Exams Exams DavidDavid P. P. Fargason, Fargason, MD MD all to Schedule Your Eye Exam 9555 Joor Road allall to to Schedule Schedule Your Your Eye Eye Exam Exam 9555 Joor Road 225.262.8141 Central, LA 70818 225.262.8141225.262.8141 Central Professional Plaza CentralCentral11424 Professional Professional Sullivan Road Plaza Plaza You have tried the rest! Now USE the BEST! 1142411424 Sullivan Sullivan Road Road 14 CENTRAL CITY NEWS January 2020 Talented Central Art Students Win State Beta CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL ART STUDENTS – State Beta Winners 1st Place Star QB Wins Scholarship Mixed Media Div. I “Girl Power” by soph- more Allie Slater. 2nd Place Recycleable Art Div. II “Recycled Material” by junior Kaitlyn Mier. Also, bringing home a 5th Place award in Mixed Media Div. I was se- nior Abbygail Wheat. All students are taught Painting I by Ms. Donna Rush. Central High School took 47 stu- dents to the Louisiana State Beta Convention this year and brought back a total of nine awards. This year the Louisiana’s conven- tion had a total of 312 Central High head coach Sid Edwards; coaches Zack Morris, Frank Fresina, clubs and 5,813 Beta and Ken Hilton, and Sam Sr., Sam and Mary Kenerson as Sam signs scholar- Club members in at- ship to play football for Georgia Southern tendance. Allie Slater won 1st and Kaitlyn Mier won 2nd at State Beta. Central Business Directory Automotive Carpet Cleaning Dirt WorkWork North - Airline & BayouSteam General Sand & Gravel Co. Choctaw Carpet, Upholstery, Limestone, Gravel, Mason Sand, Clay, Top Soil, 225-927-2311 Riversilt, Crushed Concrete, Tractor Work, South - Airline Tile & Grout Cleaning Swimming Pool Demo & Fill-In & Cloverland Locally owned and operated 225-261-3953 225-751-3656 225-955-6955 Electrical Lawn Care Plumbing Simple Electric PRO CUTS Installation of All Electrical Work Mowing & Trimming • Tree Maintenance Commercial • Residental Over 35 Years Experience • Any Size Job Flower Bed Maintenance Parking Lot Lights, Security Lights, and Video No Contracts • Free Estimates Family Business 262-1234 Parking Lot Lights, Security Lights, and Video Zachary St. Francisville Baton Rouge 225-921-2633 225-614-7496 654-9080 784-0448 262-1234 Storage Climate and Non-Climate Control Units Advertise in Business Directory Fenced In 24 Hour Access Senior Abbygail Wheat won 5th Place in Various Sizes Available 3 months $50/mo • 6 months $47/mo mixed media at State Beta Convention. NORTH RIVER ROAD STORE AND LOCK 9 months $45/mo12 month $42/mo 4747 N. River Road • Port Allen Book & Pay Online: northriverrdstorage.com Call 225-261-5055 or email [email protected] 225-888-3122 • UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT Classifieds $6 for first 10 words. $10 for 11 to 20 words, $15 for 21 to 30 words. $20 for 31 to 40 words. $25 for one column inch classified display ad. Call 261-5055. Must be paid in advance. To pay by credit card, go to www. centralcitynews.us and click “Pay Now” on the left. Then email ad copy to centralci- Easy, flavorful and... [email protected]. Or mail or hand de- liver check and ad copy to City News, 910 N. Foster, Baton Rouge 70806 PET SERVICE: Need a dog walker or pet sitter? Contact Dee’s Little Grem- lins’ Pet Care. For More Information Call 225-439-3037 or email Deepow- [email protected] JOB LISTING: Looking for a strong con- servative who is a wake of current events Made With with computer skills, to help build a con- servative information center. Call Tom- my at 225-301-0996. Leave a message. FOR PURCHASE at TRACTOR SUPPLY: Happy Jack® LiquiVict 2x®: handy dispenser insures accurate dosage to treat hook and round worms. At Trac- tor Supply. (www.happyjackinc.com). FOR SALE: Large black leather jacket and pants like new $200, call 225-205-0174 ADVERTISE IN CENTRAL CITY NEWS: Reach your best audience. Ad- vertise in the Central City News. Call 225-921-8784 or 225-261-5055. FOR SALE: Kentwood water cooler with bottle - $20, Pie shaped brown cloth chair - $20, Good used gas dryer - $20 BEACH BUNGALO FOR SALE: Pensacola, FL 2 BR, 1 Bath, 980 sq. ft., Recipes at MadeWithManda.com $370, 000. Call 850-206-8835. January 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 15 Leo G. Summers Celebrates 100th Birthday

Great granddaughter Summer Crawford, granddaughter Debbie Summers Crawford, and great granddaughter Samantha Crawford help Leo Summers celebrate 100 years!

CENTRAL — Leo G. Summers cel- Rodney, Leo M. (Butch), and Bev- ebrated his 100th birthday this past erly Sunmers. He has five grand- weekend. He was born on January children — Michael Summers, 10, 1920. A World War II veteran, Waylon Summers, Debbie Sum- he served in Casa Blanca. Leo and mers Crawford, Crystel Robinson, seven of his brothers were in the and T.J. Robinson. He has many war at the same time. great-grandchildren. Leo is one of 13 children of Leo attended Central High Jabus Harney and Alma Mary School and was Postmaster in Blanchard Summers and the only Greenwell Springs. His hob- living sibling. His brothers were bies were fishing and hunting. He Harney, Lyle, Amos, Pierce, Law- owned Summers Brothers, a con- rence, Lewis, Malcolm, and Ed- struction company on Sullivan Helen and Leo Summers in 1969 at the ward. His sisters were Katie, Lila Road for many years. wedding of Peggy and Rodney Summers Mae, Maude, and one who died as His birthday celebration was a young child. He has many nieces held at The Cedar Room on Green- and nephews. well Springs Road on January 11 Leo G. Summers and long-time friend Leo was married to Thelma Hel- and was attended by more than 100 John Sanchez. en LeSage Summers 66 years, and family and friends. they had four children — Richard,

Jay Pace and Leo G. Summers

The Jabus H. Summers Family. Leo Summers with parents and siblings. Leo G. Summers, U.S. Army Helen and Leo Summers in the early 1940’s. They were married for 66+ years. 16 CENTRAL CITY NEWS January 2020

YourYour PhysicalPhysical HometownHometown TherapyTherapy 225-261-7094225-261-7094 1311113111 HooperHooper RoadRoad centralptonline.comcentralptonline.com Central,Central, LALA 7081870818 Happy New Year from Central’s Hometown Heroes

Richard O’Quinn, PT and Kara Kinchen Erik Strahan PT Tech Katie Carpenter Massage PTA Holly Bates Herdman Vestibular Certification Physical Therapist Download a QR Code Reader to Your Phone and Point Your Phone at the QR Code Below to Watch a Video

Meet Meet Meet Richard O’Quin Kara Kinchen Erik Strahan and Learn About Learn About Learn About Massage Plantar Concusions Therapy Fasciitis

Beautiful Facility • Quality Staff • 30 Years in Business • Offering More Services • No Need to Travel Outside Central • Physical Therapy • Skilled, Hands on Approach • One-on-One Care • Muscular and Skeletal Problems • Concussions • One of Top Concussion Programs in the Country • Dizziness • Fall Prevention • Recovery from Surgery • Aquatics Program • Sports Therapy • Fitness • Massage Therapy • Dry Needling Owners Helen Balzli, PT, and Tom Coplin, PT and Administrator