JBE Orders Ban Dancing in Louisiana

General Excellence Louisiana Press Association CENTRALCENTRAL CITYCITY National Newspaper Assn. VOTE3 Saturday, Aug. 15 Tiffany Foxworth District Judge School Tax Renewal

® Rebuild Central High School & The Leader NEWSNEWSAugust 2020 • Vol. 23 No. 8 • 20 Pages • Circ. 10,000 • Central City News on Facebook • [email protected] • 225-261-5055 Runofff Election Saturday, August 15 in Central DistrictCentral’s Judge, 15th Anniversary School Tax SAMPLE BALLOT District Judge Race: City of Central Liberal-Conservative Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020 Battle Could Decide All Voters Direction of Court District Judge 19th JDC Woody Jenkins YVETTE ALEXANDER (D)* Editor *Endorsed by Democratic Party CENTRAL - This Saturday, Aug. TIFFANY FOXWORTH (D)* 15, voters in Central, Baker, Zach- *Endorsed by Central City News ary, and Sherwood Forest will go Tax Renewal for to the polls to choose a new dis- Central School System trict judge between conservative To Rebuild Central High former Army Judge Alexander: Capt. Tiffany [ ] Yes* [ ] No Foxworth and Liberal City Judge Yvette Alexander Conservative Tiffany Foxworth *Endorsed by Central City News World Traveller at Taxpayer Expense liberal City LIBERAL-CONSERVATIVE SHOWDOWN for District Court judge in the Saturday, Trips to Hawaii, Italy, Judge Yvette Aug. 15 runoff election. Conservative attorney and former Army Capt. Tiffany Foxworth Morocco, South Africa Alexander. (right), who ran first in the primary, and liberal Baton Rouge City Court Judge Yvette Jamaica, and More Foxworth is Alexander (left) will face off. Conservative voters in Central could decide the outcome. See Page 6 pro-life, pro- JBE Orders family, pro- traditional marriage, pro-gun, a crime-fighter, pro-military and Tax Renewal Will Be Devoted Ban Dancing pro-veteran. She rose from private to Captain in the Army and served in Desert Storm and Desert To Renovating Central High In Louisiana Shield. Judge Alexander touts her CENTRAL - Central voters will go Fountain said that, if approved, the LAFAYETTE - No, this is not a joke! many years of experience. She is to the polls this Saturday to con- tax would fund $22.2 million for At a time when each of the Gov- endorsed by the Democratic Party sider whether to renew a 23.65- the high school and $1.8 million ernor’s Emergency Orders seems and leading Democratic officials. mill property tax originally passed for the stadium. more far-fetched than the last, Her election to City Court has been in 2009 to construct the Central Central High School was built State Fire Marshal Butch Brown- in the minority district in Baton School Complex, which houses in 1970. Dr. Fountain said the im- ing has revealed that dancing is Rouge. She has never run in the Central Intermediate School and provements to Central High School now prohibited in Louisiana. Northern judicial subdistrict. Fox- Central Middle School. would make it a world class facil- Asked by KLFY in Lafayette, worth lives in the subdistrict but The renewal would extend the ity. Improvements would include: Browning said, “Dancing is not al- Alexander does not. tax by 20 years and provide fund- • Entire interior will be renovat- lowed at all, indoors or outdoors. While most voters are unaware ing to rebuild Central High School ed, including all classrooms It’s been very challenging for peo- of it, the judiciary in East Baton and make major improvements to • Renovation of media center (or ple to remember that...” For more Rouge Parish is rapidly undergoing Wildcat Stadium on Hooper Road. library) on the dancing ban, see Page 5. See COLUMN on Page 6 Central schools Supt. Jason See NEW CHS on Page 14

Governor Targets Firehouse BBQwhen in she Watson posted on Facebook saying her employees could not com- Danielle Bunch ply with the governor’s mask order for health reasons and there was no Threatened with point in customers wearing masks if the employees didn’t. Danielle said she meets all health Prison for Not code requirements and socially distances, but the governor’s mask Ejecting Patrons order is completely illegal and unconstitutional. The Attorney Gen- Woody Jenkins Editor, Central City News eral agrees! See pages 8-9. Judge Brenda WATSON - A single mom who re- Ricks ordered Ms. cently purchased Firehouse BBQ Bunch to close, in Watson is in a David-vs.-Goliath but Danielle said battle with Gov. John Bel Edwards, judges should read who wants her restaurant closed. the AG opinion. A Edwards wants her to forcibly hearing is set be- eject customers who don’t mask. fore Judge Brian However, Danielle Bunch says Abels on Aug. 18. To learn more, she has no intention to close her FIREHOUSE BBQ owner Danielle Bunch says the governor’s mask mandate is illegal popular restaurant. Ms. Bunch at- but that even under the governor’s rules, her restaurant complies with the health excep- click on the QR tracted the governor’s attention tions and social distancing rules. Nevertheless, Gov. Edwards is trying to close her down. codes at the right. 2 CENTRAL CITY NEWS August 2020 As School Re-Opens, Things Almost Normal For Elementary School Students Under 8

Central schools Assistant Supt. Sandy Davis helps kids with social distancing. Walking to Tanglewood Elementary on the first day of the 2020-2021 school year.

Children file into Tanglewood on the first day of school. It was closer to normal because children under 8 are exempt from Gov. Edwards’ mask mandate.

Central Community School System was the first district in East Baton Rouge Parish to return to school during the pandemic.

Teachers and faculty help direct children on their first day of school after a five-month break. First Student was there to monitor the buses.

Fewer parents than normal arrived with their children on the first day of school this year. Old Glory was waving at Tanglewood as children returned to school. Tanglewood Elementary School First Day • August 6, 2020 August 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 3

News About Drug Blocked by Facebook, YouTube America’s Frontline Physicians Endorse Hydroxychloroquine, Face Censorship Frontline Doctors, but in almost every case, the posts were deleted. Social Media The Central City News has many Facebook pages and attempted to Doing Their Best post the news conference on all of them. Only a couple slipped through the fingers of the Facebook To Silence Info censors. Meanwhile, Central City News was able to get a copy of the video On Popular Cure and post it at centralcitynews.us, WASHINGTON — In late July, a where it remains beyond the reach group of physicians calling them- of Facebook censors. To watch it, selves America’s Frontline Doctors go to the newspaper website. held a news conference on the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court building in Washington to discuss their expe- THOUGHT POLICE rience in treating Covid19. Do you find it remarkable that The group explained their suc- Facebook, YouTube, and Google cess with patients in the early stages AMERICA’S FRONTLINE PHYSICIANS held a news conference on the steps of the do everything in their power to of the disease, where they said they U. S. Supreme Court building to describe their positive experiences using hydroxychloroquine, zpac, and zinc in treating Covid19 patients. The video had 18 million viewers but prevent any positive information get nearly 100 percent effectiveness. was taken down by Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. It is available at centralcitynews.us about hydroxychloroquine from The physicians all prescribed 200 mg getting to the eyes and ears of of hydroxychloroquine twice a day The live broadcast was viewed sonal experiences using the drugs, the American people? plus azithromycin (zpac), and zinc. by 18 million people in the United it was difficult to understand how If American physicians hold a States — one of the largest live Facebook could claim the state- news conference telling their per- broadcasts in the history of Face- ments were false. sonal experiences in prescribing Physicians’ Video book. Immediately, social plat- Over the next few days, millions the drug for their patients, these forms Facebook, YouTube and of Facebook, YouTube, and Twit- media giants label them “liars” Twitter began to systematically re- ter subscribers had their videos and and block their words. Is Still Available at move all traces of the news confer- other posts about hydroxychloro- How do the media giants ex- ence from their platforms. quine deleted. Some people even plain their harsh censorship? centralcitynews.us For example, the Central City had their entire page deleted. Mark Zuckerberg says he is Download QR Reader News posted to Facebook a link to It was a very broad and amazing afraid someone might be misled Scan here the news conference as it was go- attempt to shut down a discussion and take the drug! But it’s a pre- ing on. Shortly thereafter, Facebook of the benefits of hydroxychloro- scription drug! No one can take deleted the Central City News post, quine. it unless his personal physician saying it was false. Since the physi- Many people tried repeatedly has prescribed it! cians were simply telling their per- to post the video from America’s

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Quickly and Easily Refill RX Online Download Our New Improved Phone App iPhone and Android 4 CENTRAL CITY NEWS August 2020 Governor’s Emergency Powers Do Not Include Closing Businesses or Masking Emergency Statute Powers of Governor in a Declared Emergency (R.S. 29:724) Much More Limited C. The declaration of an emergency or disas- regulation would in any way prevent, hinder, or ter by the governor shall: delay necessary action in coping with the emer- Than JBE Claimed, (1) Activate the state’s emergency response gency. and recovery program under the command of (2) Utilize all available resources of the state Restricts Governor the director of the Governor’s Office of Home- government and of each political subdivision of the state as reasonably necessary to cope with CENTRAL - The governor’s Emer- land Security and Emergency Preparedness. gency Powers under La. R.S. 29:721 (2) Direct and compel the evacuation of all the disaster or emergency. et seq are much more limited than or part of the population from any stricken or (3) Transfer the direction, personnel, or func- he has told the public. Since March threatened area within the state if he deems this tions of state departments and agencies or units 2020, Gov. John Bel Edwards has action necessary for the preservation of life or thereof for the purpose of performing or facilitat- issued more than two dozen Emer- other disaster mitigation, response, or recovery. ing emergency services. gency Orders, which have been (3) Control ingress and egress to and from a (4) Subject to any applicable requirements for presented by the news media as disaster area, the movement of persons within compensation, commandeer or utilize any pri- valid and lawful. Few if any have the area, and the occupancy of premises therein. vate property if he finds this necessary to cope challenged the governor to provide D. In addition to any other powers conferred with the disaster or emergency. the statutory basis allowing him to upon the governor by law, he may do any or all (5) Prescribe routes, modes of transportation, assume such power and issue such of the following: and destination in connection with evacuation. far-reaching orders. (1) Suspend the provisions of any regulatory (6) Suspend or limit the sale, dispensing, One of the most controversial statute prescribing the procedures for conduct or transportation of alcoholic beverages, fire- orders was to lockdown the state of state business, or the orders, rules, or regu- arms, explosives, and combustibles. and shut tens of thousands of small lations of any state agency, if strict compliance (7) Make provision for the availability and use businesses. Another was to order with the provisions of any statute, order, rule, or of temporary emergency housing. citizens to wear masks. However, a review of the applicable statute Nowhere Does the Law Permit the Governor to Close Businesses shows there is no grant of power to the governor to close businesses or or Require Masks, Although He Does Have the Power to Suspend mandate masks. Nevertheless, the Emergency Powers Act does allow the Sale of Alcohol, Firearms, Explosives and Combustibles. the governor to limit or restrict the sale of alcohol, firearms, explosives, and combustibles. R.S. 29:726(D) Strongly Limits Governor’s Powers Furthermore, La. R.S. 29:736D La. R.S. 29:736(D) provides: makes it clear that the governor has D. Nothing in this Chapter shall be inter- of law and justice, administered without denial, no power to diminish any of the preted to diminish the rights guaranteed to all partiality, or unreasonable delay, for injury to rights of citizens under the Decla- persons under the Declaration of Rights of the him in his person, property, reputation, or other ration of Rights of the Louisiana Louisiana Constitution or the Bill of Rights of rights. The orders of all courts shall have their Constitution or the Bill of Rights of the United States Constitution. This Chapter full force and effect. The legislature may call the United States Constitution. It shall not violate Article II (Distribution of Pow- itself into session at any time and shall exercise also protects the powers of the leg- ers), Article III (Legislative Branch), or Article V its powers and duties. Its ability to enact law, islature and the judiciary, making it (Judicial Branch) of the Louisiana Constitution. appropriate funds, and confirm appointees shall clear that the governor’s powers are The courts shall be open, and every person be in full force. The privileges and immunities of principally limited to control of the shall have an adequate remedy by due process legislators shall be respected. executive branch,

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COMMUNITY PRESS, LLC St. George Leader CENTRAL CITY NEWS & Vol. 1 • No. 3 The Leader Vol. 23 • No. 8 • CCN No. 442 Post Office Box 2 Post Office Box 1 City of St. George, LA 70801 City of Central, LA 70739

910 North Foster Drive Vol. 4 • No. 1 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Phone (225) 261-5055 • Entire contents © 2020 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 South Baton Rouge Journal began publication in 1989. It went on hiatus in 2008 during its 20th year of publication. It resumed publication as the Capital City News on Aug. 16, 2012, with Vol. 21, No. 1. 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 Advertising Manager 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 East Baton Rouge OPEN FOR BUSINESS — The governor has ordered Danielle Bunch to close Fire- house BBQ, but the single mom needs her business, remains open, and is doing great! So Now the Fool Governor Forbids Dancing If you take living out of life, who refuse vaccines from certain ous customers and sell out! [See No Singing, Hugs, there’s really nothing left, is there? activities in the market place - such Attorney General’s Opinion on the HHH as travel, entrance into some busi- legality of the order] Handshakes, Not “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of nesses and government offices.” HHH Happiness!” HHH GOAL OF THE BREATHE Even Funerals or HHH COVID19 — Yes, we all know FREE SOCIETY at least initial- HOW TO KEEP OUR FREE- it can be deadly. We’ve known that ly is to counter efforts by our fool Visiting Hospital DOM — The way to keep our free- from the beginning. About 1 in ev- Democrat governor to punish and dom is for you to keep exercising ery 1,000 people in Louisiana have shutdown businesses and churches Woody Jenkins your freedom, especially when it is died from it (or with it). However: that refuse to comply with his ille- Editor, Central City News under attack! Never let the govern- 1) The governor’s “orders” are gal, unconstitutional orders. ment or your fellow citizens get illegal and unconstitutional. He has Simply put, the tactic is for large the idea that tyranny and lawless- no power under the state’s emer- numbers of citizens to surge to the THAT FOOL GOVERNOR gency powers law R.S. 29:721 to SAYS NO DANCING — Yes, our ness by the state will be accepted business when his henchmen arrive or go unchallenged! close businesses or mandate masks. to close the business. Ordinary citi- fool Democrat governor has a new HHH His actions are unlawful. zens will carry signs and line up to one: No dancing! Add that to no 2) There is a cure that is highly singing, no hand shaking, no hug- WE NEED CONSTITUTION- purchase products and support the AL JUDGES: VOTE SATUR- successful, according to many phy- business. It will be a scene that will ging, no funerals, no visiting your sicians. If you get it, they say take dying mother in the hospital. DAY! Please go vote this Saturday, make it very awkward for the bu- August 15 in the runoff election for hydroxychloroquine with azithro- reaucrats to use the limited tools “A video recently posted on Face- mycin and zinc. People who do that book shows couples dancing inside District Judge. One of our biggest they have to close the business. problems is liberal judges! early have almost no problems, they If they turn off the business’ a Lafayette restaurant. A viewer advise. called News 10 and asked if people This election is between another power, we will have generators to liberal establishment judge, Yvette 3) The people who are vulner- help them stay open until we can were allowed to dance inside of the able mainly older people with other restaurant- the short answer is, No!” Alexander, and a constitutional get a court order to make the State conservative, Tiffany Foxworth. serious health problems need to back off. “Dancing is not allowed at all, stay home. Certainly masks won’t indoors or outdoors,” State Fire Please take time Saturday to go The idea is to counter any effort vote. help them. to punish or shut the business and Marshal Butch Browning said. “It’s 4) It’s not true that it’s more been very challenging for people to Tiffany is pro-life, supports the make sure it is more popular and Second Amendment, limited gov- deadly or worse than the flu. It is a more successful than before they remember that because you know, form of the flu. we’re a dancing state and if you’re ernment, and the Constitution. She were targeted. was a U.S. Army captain and nurse 5) Children are not in danger. Al- “Like” the Breathe Free Society not dancing, you’re not living.” most no one in this country under Just wear your masks! Above who served in Desert Storm and on Facebook! Click here: https:// Desert Shield. She is a practicing 15 has died from it and only a hand- www.facebook.com/Breathe-Free- all, be safe! We wouldn’t want to ful under 20. There is no reason to Society-631730894126447/ take any chances, would we? No, attorney, mother, and wife. HHH Voting is in Central (tax renew- close schools or require children to “life” is too valuable! mask in school. https://www.klfy.com/local/ al for Central schools) and in the 20,000 RALLIED IN BERLIN Northern judicial subdistrict (Bak- 6) This is a free country and peo- for freedom and an end to lock- state-fire-marshal-asks-public-to- ple have the right to breathe free or hold-off-on-cultural-pastime er, Zachary, Central, and Sherwood downs and mandatory masks. HHH Forest). Please vote Saturday! cover their faces. Requiring people HHH to wear a mask is an infringement of their civil liberties and right to LAWS VS. DECREES — So control their own bodies. the Louisiana State Police has de- 7) As a newspaper, since mid- clared that their boss, the governor, March, we have covered 65 church has the power to make law, restrict services at Life Tabernacle Church assemblies, and mandate masks! where there has been no mask wear- No, they are wrong! R.S. 29:721 et ing and no social distancing. Servic- seq. on Emergency Orders contains es have ranged from 300 to 3,000 no such power. We have three dis- people. Everyone was going to die, tinct branches of government, and we were told, but not one person only the legislature can make law, has died or been hospitalized. Fear not the governor. In addition, noth- is the opposite of faith. We need ing the governor says or does can to live our lives, not huddle in the trump the U.S. Constitution or the closet and try to throttle the liberties Louisiana Constitution. of those want to live their lives. HHH HHH DR. RHETT BERGERON, the HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL physician who wrote the excellent — This fool Democrat governor’s two-page article on how to build latest illegal decree has pushed back your immune against the Covid in high school football to October. the April 2020 edition of the Cen- HHH tral City News, said this Monday: WHERE FREE PEOPLE EAT BAR- “Masks, economic shut down and A FREE WOMAN, DANI- BECUE —Rev. Tony Spell took time out forced isolation are a test of the pub- ELLE BUNCH of Firehouse BBQ from defying the governor’s order not to in Watson, is standing up to the ille- have church to have lunch at Firehouse lic’s willingness to accept govern- BBQ in Watson, which is defying the ment orders - they are a precursor to gal masking order of that fool Gov. governor’s orders to require customers to mandatory vaccines and even great- John Bel Edwards, and the public is Woody Jenkins of Central City News mask. Meanwhile, Jacob and Shonta Mc- er regulation by government and supporting her! Since the governor SO LET ME GET THIS STRAIGHT — Morris are considering defying the gover- even corporations to prevent those began harassing Danielle, her busi- You’re okay with my coming in here with a nor’s order not to dance! ness has soared. They have continu- gun just so long as I put on a mask? 6 CENTRAL CITY NEWS August 2020 Runoff for Judge Is Liberal-Conservative Battle Continued from Page 1 to be tried in East Baton Rouge 48,644 black voters, 46,234 white That could result in five Democrat a dramatic change which is like- Parish. voters, and 4,773 who are listed as District Court judges and 10 Re- ly to result in most of the district The runoff election for district other. publican District Court judges. judges in the 19th Judicial District judge this Saturday is playing a The Southern subdistrict has Saturday’s election is a runoff being liberal Democrats, despite role in this larger saga. 132,101 voters, including 92,169 election to fill a vacancy left by the the fact that 50.1 percent of voters East Baton Rouge Parish has who are white. resignation of Judge Beau Higgin- in the parish are whites who most- three judicial subdistricts within These numbers show that the mi- botham (R), through the end of the ly vote conservative. The reason the 19th Judicial District Court. nority subdistrict elects more Dis- year. However, in November, vot- is mal apportionment of the three Although each district elects five trict Court judges than it should, ers will choose someone to fill the judicial subdistricts in the parish. District Court judges, the popula- while the Southern subdistrict is full term. The change in the lineup of judg- tion of the three districts varies underrepresented. Alexander and Foxworth have es could affect the administration widely. The so-called minority If the districts were reappor- both qualified for that election, of justice in both criminal and civil subdistrict has only 59,712 voters, tioned to reflect the actual popu- which would set up a rematch. matters for years to come, not only 49,751 of whom are black. lation of the parish, there would However, the loser in this Satur- here but statewide, because many The Northern subdistrict has probably be two conservative day’s election also could decide to lawsuits from across the state have 99,651 voters and is split with subdistricts and one that is liberal. drop out of the November race. Is Judge Alexander the Most Travelled Judge in U.S.? BATON ROUGE - Both the Louisiana “Baton Rouge City Court Judge ing. For the first half of the trip, the trips, paid for with tax dollars.” Supreme Court and the Metro Coun- Yvette Alexander, who already has delegation will stay at the five-star “From 2007 to 2012, Alexander cil of East Baton Rouge Parish have billed taxpayers for trips to Hawaii, Sofitel Rabat Jardin Des Roses in took 37 trips, and used a total of tried to curb the international travel Jamaica and Italy, is on her way to the heart of the capital city.” $52,704 in public funds.” at taxpayer expense of Baton Rouge Morocco, where she will stay in “The second half of the confer- “Her travels included two trips to City Court Judge Yvette Alexander. five-star hotels while attending a ju- ence will take place at the five-star Hawaii, two trips to Jamaica, and However, so far, they have failed to dicial conference.” Four Seasons Resort, according to visits to Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, stop her worldwide escapades. On “The cost of the 5,000-mile ex- forms submitted to the city-parish the Virgin Islands and the West In- Jan. 16, 2014, the Advocate carried cursion is at least $2,898 and tax- for reimbursement.” dies. In 2002, Alexander took an- this article by Rebecca Allen. payers will foot the bill.” “Alexander has been a judge since other eyebrow-raising trip to Italy Public to Pay for BR Judge’s “The trip is billed as the National 1995 and has a well-documented costing taxpayers $1,900, drawing 5-Star Trip to Morocco Bar Association’s mid-winter meet- history of taking lavish conference the attention of the Metro Council.” “When judges take leave, a cost to pay an ad hoc, or substitute, judge ANGELE DAVIS also is incurred.” Former Comm. of Administration Since 2014, the Judge has continued travelling at taxpayer expense! For example, just after qualifying to run for District Judge in January 2020, she left on a two-week trip to South Africa, paid for by — taxpayers! Apparently, a Baton Rouge city judge can learn a lot on these educa- tional trips.

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Runoff Election, This Saturday, Aug 15., 2020

Proud U.S. Army Captain • Pro-Life • Pro-Family and Veteran of Desert Storm, Iraq, and • Pro-Traditional Marriage Afghanistan Wars • Crime Fighter (enlisted as a private E-1 and rose to Captain) • Pro-Military, Pro-Veteran 8 CENTRAL CITY NEWS August 2020 Attorney General’s Opinion Raises Doubt July 15, 2020 means that sweep unnecessarily broadly and invade the areas of OPINION 20-0068 freedoms protected by the First Amendment. The Proclamation La. R.S. 29: 721, et seq. fails this fundamental constitu- La. R.S. 29: 760, et seq. tional norm. Louisiana courts have also noted Conclusion: Certain provisions other limits on the Governor’s pow- of 89 JBE 2020 may be unconstitu- ers and consequences of exercising tional and unenforceable. powers not granted to him. For example, the Governor has no power Dear Reps. Bagley, Beaullieu, to make substantive law through Edmonds, Horton, Miguez, Owen, an executive order, even in an Seabaugh, and Senator Mills: emergency. And if the Governor’s We received your requests for actions amount to a constructive Attorney General Opinions and/ taking of private property, then the or inquiries related to mask man- State may have to pay for it. dates and 89 JBE 2020, and we THE MASK MANDATE determined that guidance for busi- The order states: “Every indi- ness owners and law enforcement is vidual shall wear a face covering warranted. over the nose and mouth when in- INTRODUCTION side a commercial establishment or Over the past several months any other building or space open to both myself and the professional the public, whether indoors or out- staff at the Louisiana Department doors.” The order does not define of Justice have worked tirelessly to “commercial establishment,” nor provide the citizens and public of- does it define “face covering” — ficials of Louisiana with guidance suggesting anything will suffice regarding the COVID-19 pandem- as long as it covers the “nose and ic. We have worked hard to ensure mouth.” After limiting its appli- a balance between protecting con- cation only to “commercial es- stitutional liberties and the overall tablishments,” it then broadly health and welfare of the public. Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry applies to “any other building” When the COVID-19 pandemic or “space” that is “open to the started, the goal of government ac- public.” The mask mandate then tion was to ensure that our health- The mask mandate flatly violates due process, proceeds to list numerous exemp- care capacity to treat citizens was separation of powers, the delegation clause, state tions, which are all subjectively not overrun. Executive orders and “public accommodation anti-discrimination laws, and determined by the wearer. mandates were put in place under Initially, it exempts “any indi- our laws and Constitution with that La. R.S. 29:724(E); and it is unenforceable. vidual who will not come in con- simple goal in mind. I supported — Attorney General Jeff Landry tact with any other individual.” those actions. To that end, we seem ” It is unclear when an individual to have achieved that purpose. can make this determination, and Today I am concerned that addi- the extent they impinge upon the foundation is a flimsy one upon whether a person who subjective- tional restrictions are being placed exercise of constitutionally pro- which to build a criminal regula- ly believes, in good faith, that he on our citizens, while we no longer tected rights, they must meet an tory edifice. or she will not come into contact have a set benchmark with which to even stricter test and be narrowly It is even more vague as to penal- with another individual, but does measure our success. tailored to achieve a compelling ties and enforcement. At the same so due to no fault of his or her The Governor’s recent man- government interest to such a time, it is riddled with many ex- own would be in violation of the dates do not appear to serve degree that they justify the con- ceptions, all of which are subjec- Proclamation. It further exempts achieving any type of goal or mis- comitant reduction in individual tively determined, such that “men individuals “who will be able to sion in a manner consistent with liberty. of common intelligence must maintain strict social distancing statutory authority and Constitu- For that reason, I urge all law necessarily guess at its meaning of six feet apart from any other tional provisions. I am sending this enforcement (including the Fire and differ as to its application.” individual.” Again, it is unclear guidance in large part as a response Marshal and other individuals See Bode, et al. v. Kenner City, et when an individual can make this to the many calls and inquiries I acting under the color of law) to al., 303 F. Supp. 3d 484 (E.D. La. determination and whether a person have received from you, private exercise extreme caution when 3/19/19). who subjectively believes, in good citizens, and other elected officials responding to calls related to vio- Among other restrictions on the faith, that he or she can maintain regarding the Governor’s most re- lations of facemask orders. While Governor’s authority, which will be strict social distancing but due to no cent Proclamation that purports to face coverings may be recom- addressed relative to each require- fault of his or her own finds himself impose a statewide “face covering” mended, the mask mandate can- ment, prohibitions must be clear- or herself within less than six feet of requirement (hereinafter referred not be enforced with criminal ly defined and government should another individual would be in vio- to as the “mask mandate”), limit or financial sanctions. Further- articulate its aims with a reason- lation of the Proclamation. gatherings indoors and outdoors to more, threats to a business’ oc- able degree of clarity. The restric- It also exempts the following cat- 50 people, and significantly restrict cupational license or other forms tions contained in this Proclama- egories of individuals: all children “bars” from their normal opera- of threats to the business (cutting tion fail this basic test. Similarly, under eight; any individual with “a tions. off water or sewer service, for ex- the Proclamation must provide fair medical condition that prevents the Most importantly, this guid- ample) also would violate basic notice so that those who wish to wearing of a face covering;” any ance is for the many law enforce- due process and could expose the follow the order may avoid its pro- individual who “is consuming food ment agencies that have contact- government actor to civil liability. hibitions. The Proclamation also or drinks;” any individual “who is ed me regarding their concerns fails this test because citizens not seeking to communicate with some- about enforcement. After careful one who is hearing impaired;” any consideration, it is my opinion as individual who is “giving a speech the chief legal officer of the State for broadcast or to an audience;” that the order does not pass the The Governor has no power to make and any individual “temporarily constitutional test. It is unfortu- substantive law through an executive removing his or her face covering nate that, despite the fact that I am “ for identification purposes.” All the statutory legal advisor to the of these exemptions appear to be Governor’s Office of Homeland Se- order, even in an emergency. vague, subjective, and/or unen- curity and Emergency Preparedness — Attorney General Jeff Landry forceable. The rule does not permit (“GOHSEP”), I was not consulted ” anyone to demand parents prove prior to the issuance of any Ex- the child is “under eight,” and it ecutive Order during COVID-19, 89 JBE 2020 only cannot predict which actions does not define medical condition including the most recent Procla- On July 11, 2020, Governor John are prohibited, but also they face (while other state and federal laws mation. Bel Edwards issued 89 JBE 2020, potential unlawful arrest and un- prohibit demanding or forced shar- ANALYSIS a Proclamation amending a pre- lawful searches and seizures for ing of personal health information). Let me begin by first emphasiz- existing order, issuing a statewide “trespassing” or “any other laws” Any individual carrying around a ing that this guidance in no form mask mandate, limiting indoor and that a person “may violate” even Diet Coke or a pack of crackers should be taken to discredit or re- outdoor gatherings to 50 people if they are fully compliant. Arbi- is apparently exempt. Any per- duce the significance of any protec- (with exceptions), and limiting ser- trary and discriminatory enforce- son who generally and subjectively tions taken by an individual, includ- vice in “bars.” As a general mat- ment is not only possible, but it is “seeks to communicate” with any ing the wearing of a face mask for ter, the order does not define nu- highly probable and even encour- other person who may be hearing the purpose of preventing infection merous terms, contains minimal aged by the order. At the same impaired is exempt. (The rule ap- from COVID-19. However, all statistics in support, and contains time, the order is also unconsti- parently only requires one to “seek” mandates that carry enforcement no geographical data. It vaguely tutionally overbroad. Moreover, to have such interaction, not to ac- penalties against the public must references possible sources of government’s legitimate purpose tually know someone with whom be rationally related to achieving outbreaks based on vague hear- to validly control and prevent some they may communicate is hearing a legitimate public purpose. To say from “contact tracers.” This conduct cannot be accomplished by impaired, much less have immediate plans to communicate with August 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 9 About Legality of Governor’s Mask Order them face to face. “Communicate” suant to CISA and those that are is also a broad term, and could operating at 50 percent capacity, include communicating by text, I urge all law enforcement (including the Fire regardless of their size, from the phone, Zoom, or carrier pigeon, Marshal and other individuals acting under the gathering requirements of the or- but in any event, the communica- “color of law) to exercise extreme caution when re- der. Thus, under the terms of the tor is exempt.) And if an individual sponding to calls related to violations of facemask order, any indoor or outdoor facility plans to “give a speech” (undefined) operating at 50 percent, even if 100 to an “audience” (also undefined), orders. While face coverings may be recommend- percent amounts to 100,000 people then that individual is also exempt. ed, the mask mandate cannot be enforced with and 50 percent to 50,000, the crowd In short, virtually any individual criminal or financial sanctions. is exempt. may fall within one or more of — Attorney General Jeff Landry The order is both over-inclu- these exemptions. ” sive and under-inclusive at the Although the rule contains ex- same time, a characteristic that emptions that would or could apply individual. It even appears to con- exposes law-abiding individuals frequently defines unconstitution- to the vast majority of the public, vert a dispute over the applicability to confrontational encounters with ally vague and overbroad stat- it then purports to require both of the mask requirement into a tres- business owners (who fear enforce- utes. In addition, the large num- compliance and enforcement by passing violation, even though it is ment against their businesses) as ber of exemptions (Albertsons, “commercial establishments,” not the property owner’s terms and well as encounters with police (who Lowes, Ace Hardware, alcoholic upon threat of the business (not conditions that are being violated. have been called to deal with mask- beverage stores, to name a few the mask-less individual) being is- Another issue, which should be less individuals), even though the stores that have remained open sued a “citation.” The Proclama- of specific concern to law enforce- individual may be fully compliant for months without restrictions), tion does not say who would issue ment, is the reference to “cita- with the order. It exposes individu- undermine any rational basis for the citation and for what. It is tion.” The only enforcement pro- als to unlawful searches and sei- the rule. A rule that has so many likewise silent as to what the sanc- vided for in La. R.S. 29:724(E), et zures, as well as burdens them exceptions that it undermines its tion may be, or the legal basis for seq., is a criminal provision found in with exposing potentially sensi- very purpose is unconstitutional conscripting businesses to enforce La. R.S. 29:724. This provision es- tive personal health information because it is irrational and fails executive orders. tablishes that any violations of such and having it exposed to others in to serve a legitimate government After threatening “citations” executive orders are misdemeanors. a public and disputatious setting. interest. to businesses, however, it says This raises serious concerns related The mask mandate flatly vio- CLOSURE OF “BARS” “citations” may be written “only to both Fourth Amendment rights lates due process, separation of The bar closure is also problem- to businesses or organizations to be free from search and seizure powers, the delegation clause, atic for several reasons. First, the (other than religious organiza- without a warrant and the Fifth state public accommodation an- Proclamation provides little data tions- also undefined) that fail Amendment Right against self-in- ti-discrimination laws, and La. to support a statewide closure of to enforce the requirement. In crimination and other constitutional R.S. 29:724(E); and it is unen- a single type of business, without other words, the order purports concerns. As such, all of the protec- forceable. To the contrary, the LH- regard to whether the business is to turn private businesses into tions afforded suspects in criminal SEADA specifically prohibits any operating with the utmost care the Governor’s Proclamation en- investigations are required. order from creating a crime or fix- and a perfect record, operates forcement arm. Having threatened Any agency should understand ing penalties; and, to this degree, exclusively with outdoor service, businesses “that fail to enforce the that the violation of a valid ex- the order is ultra vires. or operates in a geographical lo- requirement” (which is riddled with ecutive order (within the proper Moreover, any law enforce- cation with little data showing subjective exceptions, making it scope of the governor’s powers) ment agency – and importantly spikes related to bars. difficult even for experienced attor- should be treated as a criminal in- any business – may be exposed to The Proclamation vaguely refers neys to discern its contours), it goes vestigation ab initio and proceed liability under state and federal to a handful of outbreaks traced to on to further muddy the water by accordingly. Additionally, any civil rights laws for violating an “bars” but does not say where those providing a safe-harbor. Businesses agency engaged in enforcement individuals’ constitutional rights outbreaks occurred and does not are “entitled to rely” on the rep- of these orders should also rec- under color of law. Such a mas- place the minimal data in the con- resentations of their employees, ognize that federal civil liabilities sive liability expansion is clearly a text of the total number of facilities customers, and patrons with re- associated with law enforcement matter for legislative balancing and that qualify as a “bar.” It also only gard to whether they qualify for also apply. Relatedly, the State accountability, not executive fiat. vaguely connects outbreaks by stat- an exemption. may incur liability relative to the ing they “may be” related to bars Neither the Louisiana Home- THE 50-PERSON LIMIT activities of the State Fire Mar- The 50-person limit is also too based on hearsay from contact trac- land Security and Emergency As- shal. Louisiana Revised Statutes ing. sistance and Disaster Act vague to be constitutional. More- (“LH- 40:1563.1 sets out the authority of over, the exceptions to the rule Without stating adequate data SEADA”), La. R.S. 29:721, et seq., the Fire Marshal and his deputies swallow any rational basis for it. to support it, the Governor has sin- nor the Louisiana Health Emer- to make arrests. It specifically gled out one type of business and gency Powers Act The Proclamation initially states (“LHEPA”), La. outlines those offenses for which that “crowd sizes are limited to no punished hundreds of law-abiding R.S. 29:760, et seq., authorize the the Fire Marshal has investiga- business owners. While the data Governor, unilaterally, by execu- more than 50 people in any single tive authority. Nothing in this indoor space at the same time.” It and the public health statutes may tive proclamation, to make busi- section references enforcement of does not distinguish between the permit targeted closures of indi- nesses his proclamation enforce- executive orders as described in size of the indoor space and its ca- vidual businesses where outbreaks ment police. And they may not be La. R.S. 29:271, et seq., nor does pacity. Thus, the Superdome and are documented to have occurred, threatened with “citations” or oth- LSEADA itself grant him such a 10 x 10 room are treated the the Governor has no authority to erwise sanctioned for refusing to be authority. same. discriminate against a single busi- his enforcement arm. To the extent that the order It goes on to say that “crowd ness type statewide in the absence Although the order provides a purports to deputize business sizes are limited to 50 people in of far more data to support such a safe harbor for businesses to rely owners to interrogate their cus- any outdoor space where individu- draconian and arbitrary exercise of on the representations of custom- tomers and make on-the-spot als will be in close proximity to power. ers, patrons, or employees, it does compliance enforcement deter- one another and unable to maintain Moreover, suspending or threat- not provide any such safe harbor ening the business or alcohol per- for individuals. To the contrary, mit of any business would likely after threatening businesses with amount to violation of due process sanctions if they “fail to enforce To the extent that the order purports to deputize as these permits are recognized the requirement,” it ambiguous- business owners to interrogate their customers property interests protected under ly states, without any citation to “ the due process clause. It could also authority, that “law enforcement and make on-the-spot compliance enforcement determinations, the business owners may be found result in a “constructive taking” via personnel may enforce trespass- government regulation. ing laws or any other laws the to have been acting under color of state law and patron, employee or customer themselves be subjected to civil rights and/or pri- SUMMARY may violate.” Thus, it threatens vate tort liability, spawning a significant amount In summary, the three provi- businesses who refuse to become sions of the executive order — the gubernatorial enforcement agents of costly and distracting litigation for which hard- mask mandate, the 50-person in- and encourages businesses to call in pressed businesses are neither prepared nor indoor/outdoor gathering limit, and local law enforcement for help. The sured. — Attorney General Jeff Landry the bar closure — are likely un- order purports to make it unlaw- constitutional and unenforceable. ful if any person enters the busi- ” Although the mask mandate and the nesses without a mask and refuses 50-person limit may be good rec- to leave, even if the individual has minations, the business owners strict social distancing of six feet ommendations for personal safety, a physical or mental condition may be found to have been act- apart from individuals who are not they may not be enforced with fi- that conflicts with wearing a face ing under color of state law and immediate household members.” nancial or criminal penalties. Both covering or is otherwise exempt. themselves be subjected to civil Again, it does not distinguish be- businesses acting under color of law It purports to graft the mask re- rights and/or private tort liabili- tween outdoor spaces, it does not as mask police and actual police quirement onto pre-existing crim- ty, spawning a significant amount define “close proximity,” and it acting as mask police could face li- inal statutes by authorizing police of costly and distracting litiga- does not define the scope of the ability if individual civil rights are to enforce “trespassing” or “other tion for which hard-pressed busi- phrase “unable to maintain strict violated due to the Proclamation. applicable laws” to deal with al- nesses are neither prepared nor social distancing.” With best regards, legedly non-compliant individu- insured. The larger defect in this pro- Jeff Landry als, even though the Proclamation The upshot of these fatally am- vision is that it categorically ex- ATTORNEY GENERAL contains numerous exemptions biguous and legally unauthorized empts thousands of businesses that could exempt virtually any provisions is potentially lethal. It — those that are “essential” pur- 10 CENTRAL CITY NEWS August 2020 3,000 Attend America’s Youth Conference at Life Tabernacle, 240,000 Watch Online

America’s Youth Conference Click QR Codes to Watch Conference The Shout Heard Around the World!• Returns June 30-July 4, 2021

Challenge Future Pastors and Leaders Part 1

Pastor Tony Spell delivers a message to the youth. Rev. Wade Bass from Ocala, Florida shared with the conference attendees. Mike Fife of Zachary praises the Lord at the youth conference at Life Tabernacle. Conference brought 3,000 to the City of Central.

Challenge to Meet the Real Youth of America Part 2

Rev. Joshua Manene from Springdale, Arkansas preached. The Revolution Band played at all services. All were welcome at the youth conference. Evangelist Tim Spell and Rev. Tony Spell. Young men excited to hear the message delivered at the youth conference.

What is God’s Call in Your Life Part 3

Youth from across America share a wonderful experience at Life Tabernacle. Rev. Cornelius Williams praying with young people at the altar. Healing hands of prayer. The shout heard around the world came from Central in July. Pastor Tony Spell. Preparing for a Life Service Part 4

A Time to Remain Silent and Listen The Davidson’s traveled to Louisiana from Detroit, Michigan. Pastor Spell lays hands on the youth. Youth happy to be in fellowship. Rev. and Mrs. Billy Chapman North Carolina. Girls from Life Tabernacle. Young ladies from North Carolina, Texas, and Georgia. Part 5

3,000 Attend America’s Youth Conference Part 6

Family from Dayton, Ohio. Family from Greensburg, Indiana. Future pastors and missionaries. Choir members for Revolution. Choir directors from Georgia and Florida. A young girl prays for her father and she is then baptized.

America’s Youth Conference • July 15-17, 2020 • Life Tabernacle Church • Central, LA • Photos by Woody Jenkins • Video by Kim Powers for the Central City News August 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 11 3,000 Attend America’s Youth Conference at Life Tabernacle, 240,000 Watch Online

America’s Youth Conference • Click QR Codes to The Shout Heard Around the World! Returns June 30-July 4, 2021 Watch Conference

A Little Extra With Tim Spell Part 7 Pastor Tony Spell delivers a message to the youth. Rev. Wade Bass from Ocala, Florida shared with the conference attendees. Mike Fife of Zachary praises the Lord at the youth conference at Life Tabernacle. Conference brought 3,000 to the City of Central.

Friday at America’s Youth Conference Part 8

Rev. Marshall Clack at Youth Conference Part 9

Rev. Greg Bryant - 2 The Davidson’s traveled to Louisiana from Detroit, Michigan. Pastor Spell lays hands on the youth. Youth happy to be in fellowship. Rev. and Mrs. Billy Chapman North Carolina. Girls from Life Tabernacle. Young ladies from North Carolina, Texas, and Georgia. at Youth Conference Part 11

Fireworks at Youth Conference Part 12

America’s Youth Conference • July 15-17, 2020 • Life Tabernacle Church • Central, LA • Photos by Woody Jenkins • Video by Kim Powers for the Central City News 12 CENTRAL CITY NEWS August 2020 August 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 13

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Louisiana Press Association Local Paper LPA Honors Central City News Staff With 12 First Place Awards for News, Ads BATON ROUGE — The Central City News Push Annexation and Why BRPD Officers Live and other community newspapers published by Outside City. Community Press, LLC, once again dominated • Best Feature Story - 1st Place - St. the Better Newspaper Awards competition con- George Leader by editor Woody Jenkins. How ducted by the 110 newspapers of the Louisiana a Prominent Civil Rights Leader, Acie Belton, Press Association. Set in Motion St. George. Judges said, “I was The Central City News group, which also impressed by the writing and topic. It was a fas- includes the Istrouma Journal in North Baton cinating look at an important topic. Well done.” Rouge and the St. George Leader in the new • Best Sports Column - 3rd Place - Central City of St. George, won 12 first-place awards City News, Can Central Repeat as State Base- in competition with community newspapers ball Champions? by editor Woody Jenkins. across Louisiana. • Best Sports Story - 1st Place - Central City Central City News editor Woody Jenkins News, Central’s Steve Ensminger Helped Guide said, “It is gratifying to be honored by our peers LSU’s Joe Burrow To Season of Greatness by in the journalism profession and recognized for editor Woody Jenkins. our work throughout the year. We accept these CENTRAL CITY NEWS staffers Jolice Provost, Woody • Best Headline - 2nd Place - St. George awards on behalf of the Central community and Jenkins, and Kim Powers receiving LPA awards Votes Yes! by editor Woody Jenkins. hope it calls attention to the wonderful commu- ONLINE NEWS nity we are honored to represent.” • Best Layout and Design, Gary Hebert Award - 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place - Night Owl, • Best Overall Website - 1st Place - Central Perhaps the most important award was the City News on Facebook by Woody Jenkins, Jo- Community Service Award. This award is giv- What’s Open Late Night in Central by Woody Jenkins. lice Provost, and Kim Powers. The judges said, en to only one daily newspaper in the state and • Best News Video - 1st Place - Our sister one community newspaper in the state. Our sister publication The Istrouma Journal. won 2nd Place for the September front page, publication, St. George Leader, Election Night COMMUNITY SERVICE Istrouma Mourns Reginald Douglas. Our sis- by Woody Jenkins. • Community Service Award - 1st Place - ter publication The St. George Leader won 3rd In 2nd and 3rd Place our sister publication The judges determined that the Istrouma Jour- Place for the October 24 edition’s front page, The Istrouma Journal, with the Breakfast of nal made an outstanding contribution to the re- St. George Votes Yes! Champions video and the video coverage of opening of Istrouma High. • Best Single Editorial - 1st Place - St. Istrouma High’s principal, Reginald Douglas’ NEWS & OPINION George Leader, Mayor President Broome Will funeral service. • Investigative Reporting, Gibbs Adams Not Be Able to Continue as Plaintiff Against St. PHOTOGRAPHY Award - 1st Place - Russian Intelligence George, by editor Woody Jenkins. Judges said, • Best Photo Package - 1st Place - by Ron Heightened Tensions Here By Initiating an Al- “Out of the gate, the writer makes a powerful Moore - Parkview Falls to Catholic. The judges ton Sterling Protest at BRPD by Woody Jen- point and continues to hammer the evidence said, “This was an engaging package around kins. which backs it up, ultimately delivering a fact- the sights and sounds of a high school football • Best Front Page - 1st Place - Central City based and conclusive exclamation point. Solid game. Several very good action shots in the News’ May 2019 Graduation Edition was cho- writing style. Good use of the legalities to pres- mix.” sen best in the state, by Woody Jenkins. ent the argument. Well done!” • Best Photo Package - 2nd Place - by Our sister publication, The Istrouma Journal, • Best Regular Column, Sam Hanna Woody Jenkins- St. George Election. The judg- won 2nd Place for its September 2019 Edition Award - 1st Place - St. George Leader by edi- es said, “The candid shots from election night front page. tor Woody Jenkins - Never-St. George Groups stood out.”

Best Photo Package 1st, 2nd,20 andSt. George Leader 3rdOctober 2019 Place

Cross-Town Rivalry Always a Great Show Parkview Falls to Catholic Bears

Photos by Ron Moore for the St. George Leader BEST PHOTO PACKAGE - 1st Place in State St. George Leader, Parkview and Catholic High game spread. Photos by Ron Moore

BEST FRONT PAGE - 1st Place in State by Woody Jenkins also on the front page BEST SPORTS PHOTO - 2nd Place by Shane Evans. Our sister publication, St. George Leader won 2nd Place for its Oct. front page

BEST OVERALL WEBSITE

Central City News BEST PHOTO PACKAGE - 2nd Place in State St. George BEST PHOTO PACKAGE - 3rd Place in State Spring Game Leader for the election night coverage, photos by Woody Jenkins Central High at Istrouma High, photos by Shane Evans Facebook Page Central City News, St. George Leader and Istrouma Journal August 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 15 Central City News Recognized as Best Overall Website the Central City News

BEST SPORTS PHOTO - 1st Place in State - CCN sweeps Best Sports Photo catego- BEST FEATURE PHOTO - 3rd Place in State - Clarence Frugé and Dwayne Digi- ry. This spring game photo took first, photo by Shane Evans of CCN. Shane also placed rolamo boiling crawfish for Cookin’ in Central. Photo by Jolice Provost of Central City 2nd with a photo of Sam Kenerson. Coming in 3rd place was Jolice Provost for the CCN. News. She ate some crawfish too! • Best Photo Package - 3rd Place - by Shane Evans - Central High at Istrouma High. The judges Jenkins Wins Triple Crown: Best Column, said, “Several good actions shots and a nice flavor from the scrim- mage.” Investigative Reporting, Graphic Design • Best News Photo - 1st Place - by Stacy Hudson - A Joyous Vic- BATON ROUGE — Once again, tory for Supporters of St. George. 1st Place Central City News editor Woody The judges said, “Pretty good body Jenkins has won some of the posture and drapery for the flag.” Gibbs Adams top awards given each year by • Best Feature Photo - 3rd Award - Best the Louisiana Press Associa- Place by Jolice Provost - HOT Investigative tion, which represents 110 of the CRAWFISH. The judges said, Reporting state’s daily and weekly newspa- “Good composition of a colorful pers. subject, unusual and on target for This year Jenkins won the Tri- the event.” ple Crown of Louisiana journal- • Best Sports Photo - 1st Place ism — first place for three of the - by Shane Evans - All State Soph- LPA’s most prestigious awards omore Running Back Le’Vean in three quite different areas of Moss. Judges said, “An important journalism. The awards, each player captured in good action, an- named after a legend in the his- gle and a tense moment.” 1st Place tory of the Louisiana Press Asso- • Best Sports Photo - 2nd Place Sam Hanna ciation are: - by Shane Evans - Central Quar- Award - Best • Gibbs Adams Award for terback, Sam Kenerson. Judges Best Investigative Journalism. said, “A central character well lit Regular This award memorializes Ad- and framed.” Column ams, who was a highly-respect- • Best Sports Photo - 3rd ed investigative reporter for the Place - by Jolice Provost - Cen- Baton Rouge Advocate. Jenkins tral Wildcats Take the field at W.A. won 1st Place for his investiga- Mumford Stadium. Judges said, tion and reporting of the story on “Dramatic moment well done, but Russian Intelligence Heightened predictable.” Tensions Here By Initiating and NEWSPAPER DESIGN Alton Sterling Protest at BRPD. • Best Front Page - 1st Place - Jenkins revealed who was behind Central City News’ front page for the mysterious demonstration. May 2020 by editor Woody Jen- • Sam Hanna Award for Best kins Regular Column. This award is Note: Our sister publication, the in memory of Sam Hanna, long- St. George Leader, won 2nd Place time editor of the Concordia Sen- for Best Front Page in the competi- tinel in Ferriday. Jenkins won 1st tion! Place for his column on Never St. • Best Layout and Design - 1st Place George Groups Push Annexation 1st Place - Guide for Night Owls, and Why BRPD Officers Live What’s Open Late Night in Central Gary Hebert Outside the City. \ by editor Woody Jenkins. Award • Gary Hebert Award for Note: Our sister publication, the Best Use of Best Use of Graphics. This Istrouma Journal won 2nd Place Graphics award honors the memory for layout and design for the Is- of Gary Hebert, editor of the trouma Mourns Regional Douglas Plaquemine Post, who was front page. In 3rd Place was our known for outstanding graphic sister publication, the St. George design. Jenkins won 1st Place for Leader for the St. George Votes a graphic he designed showing a Yes! front page. Guide for Night Owls; What’s ADVERTISING Open Late Night in Central. • Best Ad Campaign - 3rd It is extremely unusual for one Place - Franklin Foil for State Sen- person to win all three of these ate series by Woody Jenkins. awards. However, this is the • Best Success Story of an Ad second time Jenkins has done it. - 1st Place - Play-by-Play ad by Woody Jenkins 16 CENTRAL CITY NEWS August 2020

NATION’S TOP KRISPY KREME STORE RE-OPENS after construction of an entirely new store at the corner of Plank Road and Hollywood. The store won the national Krispy Kreme sales contest before closing in Spring 2019 and has had continuous lines since re-opening in May 2020. New CHS by Aug. 2021 Wildcat to Cheer for LSU Continued from Page 1 If voters approve the tax renewal CENTRAL — Bailey Mitchell, • Update science labs Saturday, Dr. Fountain plans the a 2020 graduate of Central High • Welding, pipe fitting, and HVAC following time line: School and former Wildcat var- • Special education and life skills • Develop final design from Sep- sity cheerleader, will be cheer- • STEM classrooms and pre-engi- tember 2020 to April 2021 ing for the LSU Tigers this fall. neering • Begin interior construction in She is the third Central Wildcat • Health science classrooms May 2021 in the past five years to make the • New commons area and 600- • Begin exterior construction in LSU cheer team. seat cafeteria August 2021 • 1,200-seat competition gym • Be ready to move into the new Bailey was a member of the • Develop old cafeteria into culi- facilities in August 2022, two years 2018 and 2019 National Cham- nary arts facility from now. pionship teams from Central • Student-led coffee shop and stu- The Central school system has High School and the 2019-2020 dent store a very strong bond rating, thanks Central Cheer team that won the Wildcat Stadium will get the fol- to the conservative nature of the LHSAA State Championship. lowing improvements: school board. She served as Co-Captain of the • Artificial turf, which is already Dr. Fountain said the current high 2019-2020 Central High Cheer being installed school can have an additional life team. • New surface around the field of 50 years either as a high school Bailey’s family is very proud and behind the bleachers or perhaps as a middle school if of the hard work and dedication • New LED lights the community at some point de- LSU Cheerleader Bailey Mitchell • New lights for special effects cides to build a new high school. with her family — Josh and Brandi it took for her to win this recog- • New scoreboard which can play He said the newly-renovated Cen- Austin and brother Caden nition and have this opportunity. video tral High School will be a world • Pavilion at entry point class facility. Baby Rilye Huval Born May 20 CENTRAL — Blake and Lauren Huval along with big sister Sage Huval are proud to announce the birth of their second child, a girl, Rilye James Huval. She was born at 12:09 p.m. on May 20, 2020, at Woman’s Hospi- tal in Baton Rouge. Rilye weighted 7 pounds and 11 ounces and was 20 inches long. Proud grandparents are Ronnie and Charmon Breaux and John and Rhonda Huval, also from Central. Rilye James Huval

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Central Business Directory Classifieds $6 for first 10 words. $10 for 11 to 20 words, 3 months @$50/mo • 12 months @$42/mo • [email protected] $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 Automotive Carpet Cleaning Dirt WorkWork advance. To pay by credit card, go to www. centralcitynews.us and click “Pay Now” on the left. Then email ad copy to centralci- North - Airline & General Sand & Gravel Co. [email protected]. Or mail or hand de- BayouSteam liver check and ad copy to City News, 910 N. Choctaw Limestone, Gravel, Mason Sand, Clay, Top Soil, Foster, Baton Rouge 70806 Carpet, Upholstery, Riversilt, Crushed Concrete, Tractor Work, 225-927-2311 FOR RENT: 2BR/2BA Four-Plex unit South - Airline Tile & Grout Cleaning Swimming Pool Demo & Fill-In Locally owned and operated in Central, $1,000/mo w/$800 S/D. Cus- & Cloverland 225-261-3953 tom Cabinets w/Granite; all appliances, 225-751-3656 w/d connection call 225-921-3492. One 225-955-6955 unit left. JOB OPENING: Our established den- Electrical Energy Saving Plumbing tal practice is seeking the talents of an exceptional person to handle all phases SPRAY FOAM of our business office. A strong dental Simple Electric background is desired, along with com- Gulf Coast Energy Savers puter experience, and excellent com- Installation of All Electrical Work Your Comfort is Our Business Commercial • Residental munication and people skills. If you Walls • Sub Floors • Attics • Shops enjoy a challenge and are looking for a Over 35 Years Experience • Any Size Job 225-715-5496 • 225-247-2468 Parking Lot Lights, Security Lights, and Video www.gulfcoastenergysavers.net Family great team to join, please call 225-272- Parking Lot Lights, Security Lights, and Video Business 262-1234 Financing Zachary St. Francisville Baton Rouge 7236 for an interview. 225-921-2633 Available 654-9080 784-0448 262-1234 August 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 17 Matt McCoy Seeks Seat on Metro Council CENTRAL - Matt McCoy has an- palities operate. It also helps one is not through new taxes; its suc- nounced his candidacy for Metro understand more about what works cess is accomplished through con- Council and released the following for the people and, more impor- trolling spending and managing the statement: tantly, what does not. I can prom- taxpayer’s money in a manner that “Neighbors, friends, and resi- ise you that I do not have all of the is beneficial to all citizens.” dents of EBR Metro Council Dis- answers. But I will always listen to “District 4 has a great opportunity trict 4, my name is Matthew Mc- the people and do what is right and to draw new businesses to our area Coy and I am asking for your vote do it according to the law and the which will benefit everyone. I ask and confidence to serve as your Constitution. It seems that today’s for your support to make it happen. next Councilman. I am a 29-year politicians are quick to make laws resident of Central, 35-year hus- that are not legal. And to proclaim band to Frances McCoy, father to mandates that affect all of our lib- the late Brett McCoy, and grandfa- erties. My liberties matter; your Central City News ther of three.” liberties matter.” Publication Dates “I am a native resident of Loui- “My top priorities are to stick siana. Before and during this time to the basics of government: main- September 10 I have lived in several locations taining the roads and infrastructure Pigskin Preview Edition around our state and country while and providing for the safety of the on job assignments. Throughout people through law enforcement.” October 1 my career I have worked in several “I will stand as a strong Chris- October 29 different industries: fast food, ca- tian Conservative representative Election Edition sual dining, oilfield, non-destruc- of our District. We all know that tive testing, and Quality Assurance Matt McCoy, Republican for District 4 we must use compromise to make November 12 (current). I love what I do, and I government work. But that does Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday Before parts of the country and the world. Email news & advertising to: have been doing it for 33 years.” I believe this gives me added in- not mean that we must compro- [email protected] “My job has taken me to many sight as to how different munici- mise our morals and plain common sense. The success of government Two from St. Alphonsus Ordained Deacons BATON ROUGE — Bishop Mi- earn certificates in Catholic Theol- chael G. Duca of Baton Rouge or- ogy and Catechesis, awarded to the dained six Baton Rouge area men to new deacons near the conclusion the diaconate on Saturday, August of Saturday’s liturgy. Dr. Tina Hol- 8, 2020, at St. Joseph Cathedral land, president of FRANU, said, downtown. “As the only Catholic university Two of the new deacons are from in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, we St. Alphonsus in Central: have both the privilege and the re- • Deacon Mark Reyn- sponsibility to serve the Church. aud has been assigned to This historic ordination and the Most Blessed Sacrament. awarding of these certificates for • Deacon Alec Campbell has the first time are sterling examples been assigned to of that service.” St. Patrick Catho- In addition to lic Church in Baton their academic Rouge. work, the new dea- It was an his- cons received for- toric ordination be- mation in the spiri- cause the six men SIX NEW DEACONS have been ordained by Bishop Michael G. Duca. Shown (left to tual, human, and represent the first right) are Deacon Ehren Oschwald, Deacon Alec Campbell, Deacon Billy Messenger, Bish- pastoral dimen- deacons to receive op Michael Duca, Deacon Gabriel Rico, Deacon Chris Landry and Deacon Mark Reynaud sions of their new Mark Reynaud their intellectual ministry. All six Alec Campbell New Deacon formation at the “This is one of those great mo- to serve the Church as ordained ments when we see the Church re- deacons,” Bishop Duca said. new deacons have New Deacon Franciscan Missionaries of Our newed by the faith of the people and The academic work at the univer- been assigned to serve in the Baton Lady University in Baton Rouge. by these men who have been called sity included 20 courses required to Rouge area. Red Beans & Rice The Best Price In Roofing #MadeWithManda & Sheet Metal Services Blanco’s Roofing & Sheet Metal LLC Serving Central and the Surrounding Area Since 1990 Our Top Priority Is Your Complete Satisfaction COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL 262-1980 Fax 262-1981 • www.blancosroofing.com [email protected] Recipes and more at MandaFineMeats.com 13653 Devall Road • Central, LA 70818

Central City News Will Broadcast Central High Football When It Starts! 18 CENTRAL CITY NEWS August 2020 East Baton Rouge Parish Executive Committee Swearing in Parish Republican Leaders

REPUBLICAN LEADERSHIP FOR 2020-2024 — Members of the East Baton Rouge Republican Parish Executive Committee were sworn in at Great Oaks July 30. They were elected by Republican voters on July 11. Shown in left photo are (left to right) Deputy Chairmen Major George Francis, Laurie Adams and Shirley Bowler, along with former Rep. Woody Jenkins, parish chairman. At right are the elected member of the EBR Republican PEC (seated, left to right) Francis, Jenkins, Adams, and Bowler. Standing are (left to right) Mike Chittom, Edress Landry, Secretary Scott Wilfong,Conner Graham, Cecil Cavanaugh, Barbara Thomas, John Coghlan, Vice Chairman Connie Bernard, Rep. Scott McKnight, Rev. Tommy French, and Jay Lindsey. Not shown are Sen. Dan Richey, treasurer, former Central Mayor Jr. Shelton, and Richie Edmonds. Wilfong was named 2020 Campaign Chairman.

Cecil Cavanaugh, Conner Graham, Scott Wilfong, and Connie Bernard. Mike Chittom and John Coghlan, Jay Lindsey, and Laurie Adams.

Chairman Woody Jenkins shows a mail-in ballot. Barbara Thomas. The members were sworn in by Louisiana Supreme Court Associate Justice Jeff Hughes.

Conner Graham, Mr. and Mrs. John Coghlan, vice chairman Connie Bernard, and Rep. Scott McKnight

Connie Bernard, Rep. Shirley Bowler, Mike Chittom, and John Coghlan. Committee member enjoy a laugh. At right, Republican parish chairman Woody Jenkins EBR Republican Parish Executive Committee Swearing in Ceremonies • July 30, 2020 • Great Oaks Central City News LIVE Coverage August 2020 CENTRAL CITY NEWS 19 Wildcat Stadium Getting a Facelift

Renovations are underway at Wildcat Stadium on Hooper Road near Sullivan. The tax renewal has earmarked funds to complete the work that has already begun.

Total estimated cost of improvements to Wildcat Stadium is $1,800,000. Included are artificial turf, new entrance and ticket booth, scoreboard, and parking lot improvements.

Powercat Installed at Wildcat Stadium This Week

Renewal of the school tax on the ballot this Saturday, August 15, will help fund stadium improvements 20 CENTRAL CITY NEWS August 2020

Complaint Could Result in Reversal of BESE Mask Order Kim Powers Files Complaint Against BESE For Violating Louisiana Open Meetings Law Woody Jenkins Editor

CENTRAL — Central City News advertising manager Kim Powers has filed a complaint with Louisiana At- torney General Jeff Landry alleging that the Board of Elementary and Sec- ondary Education violated the Loui- siana Constitution (Art. 12, Section 2) and the Louisiana Open Meetings Law by denying her access to a public meeting. The meeting was held to consider whether to require students in Loui- siana’s public and private schools to wear masks in school this year. Because she was denied access, Ms. Powers wants to exercise her rights under state law to have the action taken at the meeting invalidated. The law requires the public body to REMOVED FROM PUBLIC HEARING — Central City News staff member Kim Powers had been waiting to speak at the BESE meet again to reconsider their actions meeting (left) for an hour when an officer demanded she leave or put on a mask. Ms. Powers objected that state law does not require and requires each member of the board anyone to wear a mask to attend a public meeting. They went back and forth for 30 minutes before six officers forced her to leave. to be fined up to $500. ing attendance. The legislature has Ms. Powers said she is also entitled never passed a law requiring masking OPEN MEETINGS VIOLATION to a public apology from the board for as a condition of attendance. violating her rights. But here’s what happened next, as Watch Kim Powers Being Kim Powers is a member of the staff described by Ms. Powers in a com- Removed from BESE Meeting of the Central City News, but more plaint she has filed with Louisiana At- When She Tried to Testify importantly she is the mother of two torney General Jeff Landry. Against Mandatory Masks school age girls who attended Central “The violation occurred July 14, Middle School. Since the pandemic 2020 during the emergency meeting Point Phone at QR Code began, she has questioned the legality of BESE to approve guidelines for of Gov. John Bel Edwards’ shutdown schools to reopen for the 2020-2021 right to be in a public meeting thanks [When her office was contacted, she of the economy and his countless arbi- school year. I am the mother of two to the Louisiana Constitution and our denied she had anything to do with trary decrees. girls who will be in the sixth and sev- Open Meetings law. Officer Worley my removal and said that the building However, when the governor is- enth grades at Central Middle School told me she was calling her sergeant. maintenance people requested my re- sued his “mandatory” mask order, Ms. in the Central Community School Dis- I asked if I was being detained and moval.] In any case, BESE chairman Powers had enough. She wanted to do trict. I was in attendance to speak on she said no. So I entered the meeting Sandy Holloway had just announced everything she could to make sure her behalf of my daughters against mask again, continued to hear testimony, that you must have a mask or leave, children did not have to wear a mask mandates for students in public and and continued to wait for my turn to and she obviously had given the order. to go to school. non-public schools in the State of testify. I feel very strongly about this I noticed that not a single member of “The governor’s orders are illegal! Louisiana and in favor of Louisiana’s issue. I have been gathering lots of the 11-member BESE board spoke up He has no authority under state law to school districts such as Central having information. I attended the legisla- on my behalf or said a word in de- require people to wear a mask. He’s local option relative to the masking of tive committee hearings. I attended fense of the Louisiana Constitution or doing it because he can, and no one students in their respective districts. the Central Community School Board my right as a citizen to be present and has challenged him.” Central had already adopted a plan meeting on this issue. Up until this participate. To them, this was all just “When it comes to children, there for the coming school year which sug- point, masks for the coming school fine.” is absolutely no reason they should be gested but did not require students to year were optional. However, I could “Still outside the meeting in the required to wear a mask. The governor mask.” see that BESE would ultimately decide hallway, I explained to the officers talks about the science, but where is “I have video documenting some of the issue, and I was ready to speak out that the Governor’s mandate provides the science on masks? There is no sci- the events described below.” publicly at this critical moment.” that if social distancing is observed, ence because there is no study show- “As I entered the building, I was “After about 30 minutes, Jennifer no mask is required. [Exception No. 1 ing an ordinary mask does anything.” given a mask. I put the mask in my Womack of BESE came to me and in his order]” “Children simply aren’t vulnerable briefcase and entered the meeting provided me with another mask and “Nevertheless, I was again told I to Covid19. Since the pandemic be- room. I immediately began the pro- asked me repeatedly why I refused to had to leave. It was clear that their gan, only a handful of children have cess of filling out a comment card. A wear a mask. I told her I did not have next step was to arrest me.” died ‘with’ Covid19 in the entire na- staff member helped me fill out the to answer that question. She asked me “The six officers then escorted out tion. Moreover, it has been demon- form appropriately, since I was not fa- if I needed to see a copy of the Gov- of the building. In tears, I told them, strated that children don’t carry it! miliar with the process.” ernor’s order, and I asked her if she ‘I’m a healthy 47-year-old woman, There is every reason to have school “I did not have a mask on and was needed to see a copy of the Louisiana and I have a right to be here without and no reason to mask children!” not questioned. I sat in the back corner Constitution! She left.” a mask and speak for my children!’ “I’m also very concerned about the of the room, socially distant. A woman “About 20 minutes later in the meet- However, that was not allowed.” psychological effect of teaching chil- with a ‘Progressive Social Network of ing, Sandy Holloway, the President of “There were several other people dren to do something very strange for Baton Rouge’ T-shirt walked over and BESE, stopped the meeting and made in attendance at the BESE meeting absolutely no reason. We need future leaned over me, saying, ‘Do you need an announcement that masks must be who were not wearing masks. How- adults with brains who don’t swallow a mask?’ I replied, ‘No thank you.’ An- worn by all in attendance at this ‘pub- ever, I was clearly targeted, bullied, every ridiculous lie that is fed to them other woman sitting next to her leaned lic’ meeting. Ironically, this meant that and removed from this meeting ille- hook, line and sinker!” over toward me and said, ‘You’re sup- I was supposed to leave a meeting that gally. Perhaps the Progressive Social Acting on her own behalf and not posed to be wearing a mask.’ I said, I had attended specifically to speak Network complained about me. I do on behalf of the newspaper, Ms. Pow- ‘Thank you.’ Then they began record- against masking! A few moments not know. However, I do know Me- ers monitored the Central Community ing me and the woman in the PSN BR later, six Department of Public Safety lissa Berry sat up front while others School Board and attended the meet- t-shirt went out into the lobby, then officers entered the meeting room and were speaking and then she testified. ing where the board agreed to encour- quickly returned.” asked me to follow them. As I was be- She never wore a mask, but rather had age but not mandate mask use. She “The meeting began. About 30 ing led out, my name was repeatedly it dangling from her ear like jewelry. attended the Senate Education Com- minutes passed and DPS Officer K. called for me to testify, but someone She was never asked to wear a mask. mittee on masking of school children Worley came to me and asked me to announced with obvious delight, “Oh, Jamie Pope was sitting next to me and at the State Capitol and saw the new put on a mask. I said, ‘No thank you!’ she left!” That added insult to injury! accompanied me in and out of the State Superintendent of Education and she then motioned for me to come Not only was I being forced by threat meeting and was never asked to wear say that he had no authority to direct with her. I followed her to the lobby, of arrest to leave a public meeting but a mask.” school systems to require students to and she then told me if I didn’t wear a they announced my name and mock- “As you know, R.S. § 42:25 of the mask. mask I would have to leave the build- ingly pretended they didn’t know I Louisiana Open Meetings Act Public Then the Board of Elementary and ing since this was a state building and was there to testify and was at that mo- Records Act says the Attorney Gen- Secondary Education called a meet- the governor signed a mask mandate. ment being removed from the room!” eral shall institute such proceedings ing to adopt a policy on masking. She I specifically told the officer that I was “Once I was back in the lobby, I upon a complaint filed by any person, attended the meeting at the Claiborne at the Louisiana State Capitol the day was again asked to put on a mask or unless written reasons are given as to Building. She studied the Louisiana prior and attended an entire House Ed- leave the building. I explained that the why the suit should not be filed.” Constitution and the Open Meetings ucation Committee meeting and never Louisiana Constitution provides that If the AG does not file suit, Ms. Law and knew that BESE had no legal once was asked to put on a mask, only “No person shall be denied the public Powers can file it on her own. If suc- authority to require members of the offered one. Officer Worley replied, right to observe the deliberations of cessful, she would be entitled to attor- public to wear a mask to attend their ‘Well, that’s not possible!’ My atten- public bodies...” ney fees, court costs, and damages. meetings. dance can be verified through several “I was told again that without a Ms. Powers said, “I’m a single The Louisiana Constitution insures legislators if necessary, and I did not mask I had to leave. I asked who or- mom who simply wanted to speak on in Article 12, Section 3 that all meet- appreciate being called a liar by a DPS der my removal. Shan Davis was the behalf of my girls, and I should be al- ings of public bodies are open to all officer.” name the officers finally gave me as lowed to do so! The law says so, and unless a law has been passed restrict- “I continued to explain that I had a the person who requested my removal. I expect this injustice to be corrected!”