Phonetic: /KOR-jul/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

• Cordial describes someone or something that is politely pleasant and friendly.
  
  All the guests were assembled and given a cordial greeting by the host.

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Beverly Kay Giannone
November 19, 1949 – May 12, 2026
Service: Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 2pm at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Nina Myrtis Huffman
October 10, 1933 – May 6, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

Hazel Thomas Holloway
Service: Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11 am at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery in Colfax

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. 

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By JIM BUTLER

To receive and consider the mayor’s veto message. Alexandria City Council posted agenda, Dec. 16.

Receive and consider mayor’s veto message. Jules Green motion to override, second Malcolm Larvadain. Motion fails. Minutes, Dec. 16.

To receive and consider the mayor’s veto message. Posted Agenda, May 5.

After being told by the City Clerk that the message cannot be discussed without adding to posted agenda, motion to add vetoed ordinance fails. Minutes, May 5. 

Public bodies must post an agenda no later than 24 hours before a meeting. Adding an item at a meeting requires unanimous vote. 

At Tuesday’s Legal Affairs Committee meeting Councilman at-large Jules Green attempted to get an understanding of the difference in the two boldface items above. 

He asked attorney Trey Gist what changed between December and May in the process for taking up a veto. He did not ask the clerk about any differences. 

If Gist explained to Green’s satisfaction, video of the meeting doesn’t reflect it. 

The December veto was of a reapportionment vote; this month’s was the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with GAEDA. 

Mayor Jacques Roy declined to attend the committee session, according to Larvadain, because he views the override process as a council function, not an administration one. 

Larvadain asked if a veto can be taken up beyond the limit specified in the City Charter and City Code. Gist said no.

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Deputies at the Rapides Detention Center – 1 responded to a medical emergency on May 19 around 7:20 am where they found an inmate unresponsive and not breathing inside his cell. The inmate was identified as Demetric Smith, 32 of Alexandria.

Deputies and Corrections Medical personnel responded immediately and started life saving measures which included the administration of Narcan for a possible opioid overdose, CPR  and the use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator). 

Deputies and medical personnel continued rendering life saving measures until Pafford EMS arrived on scene and took over the response.  Unfortunately, despite extensive and exhaustive life-saving efforts by deputies and medical first responders, Smith could not be revived and was pronounced deceased at approximately 8:12 AM. 

Corrections Security Investigators, Internal Affairs Investigators and Crime Scene Detectives responded to conduct their investigation which included gathering of evidence and conducting interviews of other inmates.   

Corrections Security Investigators say autopsy and toxicology results are pending and the investigation is still ongoing.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has announced a temporary lane closure for a bridge on LA 1 in Rapides Parish later this month.

According to DOTD, Bridge #084000000080622 on LA 1 over Bayou Jean De Jean will be reduced to one lane on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting, to allow for a routine bridge inspection.

The bridge is located approximately 0.25 miles north of LA 121 in Rapides Parish.

Officials said drivers should expect possible delays in the area and are encouraged to use caution while traveling through the work zone during the inspection period.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has announced a temporary lane closure for a bridge inspection on LA 115 in Rapides Parish.

According to DOTD, Bridge #084000330400001 on LA 115 over Big Creek will be reduced to one lane on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting, to allow crews to conduct a routine bridge inspection.

The bridge is located approximately 5.66 miles north of LA 107 near Deville.

Officials said no detour will be necessary because one lane of traffic will remain open throughout the inspection period. Drivers are advised to use caution and expect possible delays while traveling through the area.

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Arrests are accusations, not convictions

May 20

Mateo Deyoung Chaney, 28, Pineville – unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, parole violations, $2,000 bail;

Jenea Nichole Croom, 40, Pineville – nine counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, obtaining CDS by fraud, use of CDS in presence of minors, $21,500 bail;

Daquavious D. Hall, 32, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, resisting an officer, $2,000 bail;

James Benard Milner, 32, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, no driver’s license, possession of paraphernalia, flight from an officer, speeding, $13,200 bail;

Monty Charles Monteilh, 59, Sulphur – nonconsensual disclosure of a private image, misdemeanor sexual battery, no bail data.

May 19

Caljoneke Armstead, 26, Lecompte – unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, contempt of court, failure to appear, $2,000 bail;

Markesha Rashae Brown, 27, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with child present, probation violation, $1,000 bail;

Tianto Clark Sr., 41, Alexandria –  three counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, parole violations, $19,000 bail;

Therman Earl Davion Jr., 51, Boyce – five counts contempt of court, $125,000 bail;

Jake Desoto, 39, Marksville – OWI fourth offense, careless operation of a vehicle, safety belt violation, intentional littering, Louisiana fugitive, $200,700 bail;

Byron Keith Fay, 53, Alexandria – two counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS, cruelty to juveniles, obstruction of justice, flight from an officer, paraphernalia, $1.01 million bail;

Devontay Antonios Fennix, 30, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, possession of CDS in school zone, resisting an officer, safety belt violation, smoking in vehicle, probation violation, two counts contempt of court, $7,200 bail;

James Bradley Fisher, 43, Alexandria – theft, flight from an officer, reckless operation of a vehicle, driving under suspension/revocation, improper display vehicle license plate, three counts contempt of court, $35,600 bail;

Corey Donell Gaines, 36, Alexandria – OWI first offense, headlamps required, open container, no driver’s license, $1,300 bail;

Jesse Paul Goleman, 58, Pineville – possession of CDS, no signals, running a stop sign, $10,200 bail;

Bobby Neal Jones Jr., 42, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery strangulation, home invasion, probation violation, $50,000 bail;

Brandon Paul Lachney, 37, Ball – driving under suspension, injuring public records, resisting an officer, driver’s license not in possession, $1,700 bail;

Kendall Jermaine Leopaul, 22, Alexandria – criminal damage, contempt of court, $2,250 bail;

Eden Danielle Rossi, 37, St. Amant – two counts contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Zachary Jason Seals Sr., 40, Dry Prong – simple burglary, criminal conspiracy, Louisiana fugitive, possession of CDS, obstruction of justice, intentional littering, criminal damage to property, unauthorized entry of inhabited dwelling, $32,000 bail;

Fredrick Eugene Warren, 30, Lecompte – contempt of court, $75,000 bail;

Jordan Rashaad Washington, 36, Alexandria – theft, possession of CDS, resisting an officer, two counts contempt of court, $6,000 bail;

Steven Dewayne West, 42, Alexandria – aggravated second degree battery, $50,000 bail;

Tina L. Whatley, 42, Alexandria – theft, running a stop sign, flight from an officer, operating a vehicle under suspension, obstruction of justice, no insurance, speeding, possession of CDS, probation violation, $44,800 bail;

James Earl Williams, 40, Alexandria – simple burglary, two counts contempt of court, $9,000 bail.

May 18

John Michael Burns, 37, Alexandria – arson (communicating false information), fake device explosives, resisting police officer with force or violence, contempt of court, $100,500 bail;

Larry Davis, 28, Marksville – aggravated battery, aggravated assault domestic abuse, probation and parole violations, $50,000 bail;

Eddie C. Jefferson Jr., 78, Pineville – second degree rape, two counts resisting an officer, contempt of court, $103,500 bail;

Darius Damon Johnson, 48, Alexandria – OWI fourth offense, improper parking, open container, driving under suspension, parole violations, $100,200 bail;

Michelle Mohler, 56, Pineville – contempt of court, resisting an officer, $25,500 bail;

Zachary Ethan Shuler, 20, Pineville – four counts attempted first degree murder, criminal conspiracy, $2.05 million bail;

Leo Brian Steele, 43, Alexandria – possession of heroin, improper bicycle operation, $1,100 bail;

Larry Wayne Tarter, 74, Alexandria – unauthorized entry into inhabited dwelling, criminal trespass, $1,500 bail;

Deshawn Gage Washington, 23, Alexandria – simple burglary, seven counts contempt of court, $19,000 bail;

William Whiddon Jr., 53, Alexandria – violation of protective orders, intimidation (nonconsensual disclosure of private image), $50,000 bail.

May 17

Andrew Marshall Daniels, 38, Pineville – OWI first offense, running a stop sign, $1,100 bail;

Kaitlyn Minnie Beatrice Gibson, 35, Ball – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, driving under suspension, no insurance, failure to appear, $2,800 bail;

Kenneth Mead Moran III, 38, Ball – domestic abuse battery strangulation, parole violations, $25,000 bail;

Johnta Patterson, 32, Alexandria – aggravated assault domestic abuse, $25,000 bail;

Buck Nathaniel Stafford, 27, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $21,000 bail.

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Alexandria Police Department Chief Chad Gremillion was honored with the Hometown Hero Award by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana during a ceremony recognizing leadership and public service.

The award was presented by United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller and recognizes individuals who demonstrate the ideals of liberty, service, and civic responsibility in honor of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Officials said the recognition highlights Chief Gremillion’s commitment to law enforcement and community service in Alexandria.

During the presentation, Gremillion emphasized that the award reflected the collective efforts of the department and its officers.

“This award is not about me, it belongs to the men and women that I work beside every day,” Gremillion said. “Law enforcement is never a one-person effort; it takes partnerships, sacrifice and a shared commitment to protecting our communities.”

The Alexandria Police Department noted that the recognition celebrates leadership rooted in dedication, teamwork, and public service.

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Donovan “Don” Roy Hanes, age 74, entered into eternal rest on Friday, May 15, 2026, at his home surrounded by love.

Visitation for Mr. Don will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Gallagher Funeral Home from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Bro. Charles Hutzler officiating. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Gallagher Funeral Home.

Don was preceded in death by his father, William Roger Hanes; his mother, Dorothy West; stepfather, Willis West; and his stepsister, Debbie Johnson.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 51 years, Kathleen “Kathi” Hanes; his son, Brandon Hanes (Amanda); his daughter, Robin Roberts (Dusty); his brother Kim Hanes (Janice); his beloved grandchildren, Kailyn Bynog, Chloe Bynog, Crislyn Bynog, Ayden Roberts, Adelynne Roberts, Levi Prince, and Emily Hanes; his stepmother Virginia Hanes; stepbrothers, Jay Hatcher (Misti) and Kerry West; stepsisters, Sami Hatcher, Traci Liotta, and Becky Manning; sister-in-law, Joan Russell; and lifelong best friend and brother, Mel Lacour.

Don was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and faithful friend. He was known for his steadfast consistency, exemplified by his 31 years of dedicated service with International Paper. An avid bass fisherman, he enjoyed many years participating in fishing clubs and making memories on the water.

Above all, Don was a man of deep faith who loved the Lord and faithfully shared the Gospel with others. Even as he faced numerous cancer diagnoses and other health challenges in recent years, he never allowed his own struggles to keep him from ministering to those around him. He became a source of strength and comfort for many, often driving others to treatments and offering them hope during their darkest moments. His compassion, encouragement, and unwavering faith made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Don will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and his legacy of faith, kindness, and service will continue to inspire generations to come.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Kim Hanes, Jay Hatcher, Mel Lacour, Phillip Tarver, Dusty Roberts, and Wayne Deen.

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James Curtis “Jim” Strange, a proud member of the Tunica Biloxi Tribe, passed away on May 18, 2026, at the age of 63. He was born on November 3, 1962, in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Funeral services for James Curtis Strange will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home in Alexandria, with Pastor Rodney Briggs officiating. Burial will follow at Paul Cemetery in Forest Hill.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home in Alexandria from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., where friends and family are invited to gather and honor his memory, share stories, and celebrate the life of a remarkable man.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be James Strange, Laney Strange, Marty Strange, Chris Roy, J.D. Guillory, and Sean Lamkin.

Jim was a proud husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He cherished his family and friends. A passionate racing enthusiast, he found joy in the dirt races in Forest Hill, which became one of his favorite pastimes.

For over 20 years, James worked as a trucker, a profession he approached with dedication and commitment. He spent 20 years working at the Tunica-Biloxi Gaming Commission. His work ethic was a testament to his character, and he took pride in every journey he undertook.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Julie Bordelon Strange; children, James Strange (Amanda) and Sheena Moreau (Wesley); grandchildren, Jude Strange, Jameson Strange, Jase Moreau, Ashtyn Moreau, Skylar Moreau, Jacob Strange, Rylee Roy, Piper Ewing, Avery Ewing and Vayda Ewing; brothers, Laney Strange (Melinda), Marty Strange; sister, Rhonda Lamkin along with a community of family and friends who will forever remember him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy Strange and Betty Strange; his son, Jacob William Strange; his brother, Ronnie Strange; and the mother of his children, Laura Strange.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that y’all come visit and tell stories.

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Beverly Kay Giannone
November 19, 1949 – May 12, 2026
Service: Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 2pm at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Nina Myrtis Huffman
October 10, 1933 – May 6, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

Hazel Thomas Holloway
Service: Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11 am at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery in Colfax

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. 

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By JIM BUTLER

A special election will be necessary to fill the post of State Senator Mike Reese of Leesville, appointed Tuesday as next president of McNeese State University.

His District 30 includes Southwest Rapides, along with Vernon and precincts in Beauregard and Calcasieu Parishes.

Law requires the Senate president, Cameron Henry,  to call an election within 10 days of receiving notice of resignation for any term with more than six months remaining.

Reese was elected in 2019 and re-elected in 2023 to a term ending in December 2027.

Among the decisions he will face in taking the new post is what to do about a campaign finance account of almost $800,000.

State law provides options:

• Return the contributions, though the sheer number of donations from PACs, companies and individuals creates issues with that;
• Parcel it out as charitable donations;
• Give it to other candidates;
• Or keep it for possible future campaigns since it was collected for “future” election, according to his disclosure report.

That report shows he raised $235,000 in 2025 and collected another $23,000 in interest.

He spent $61,000 and, combined with prior year balance, closed 2025 at $780,000.

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A million-dollar utility infrastructure loan for a Rapides Parish town is on the agenda for the State Bond Commission’s Thursday morning meeting.

The commission will convene at 8 a.m. in Senate Committee Room A-B at the State Capitol to consider local financing requests, including a major sewer consolidation effort in the Town of Woodworth.

Woodworth officials are seeking final approval to issue up to $1.1 million in utility revenue bonds. The proposed financing carries a low interest rate capped at 0.5% with a maturity term not to exceed 20 years.

The borrowed funds are designated for the design, acquisition, construction, renovation and equipping of improvements tied to the town’s water sector sewer consolidation project.

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Rapides Parish is heading into an extended stretch of unsettled weather, with repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms expected from Wednesday through at least Tuesday, according to the latest forecast.

Conditions begin midweek with a partly sunny sky on Wednesday, but scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop by the afternoon. High temperatures will reach the mid 80s with light southeast winds around 5 mph. Rain chances increase to 70 percent.

Wednesday night will remain mostly cloudy with additional showers and thunderstorms possible, as lows settle near 70 degrees and light winds continue.

By Thursday, the region shifts into a more active weather pattern. Partly sunny conditions early will give way to widespread showers and likely thunderstorms by the afternoon. Highs will again reach the mid 80s before falling into the upper 70s later in the day as rain coverage increases. Rain chances rise sharply to 90 percent.

Thursday night brings continued storm chances, with showers likely and lows in the lower 70s. Winds remain light out of the south.

The most significant impacts are expected Friday through the weekend, when repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms become more widespread. Friday stands out as a particularly wet day, with rain chances near 100 percent and high temperatures in the lower 80s. Additional showers and storms are expected Friday night with continued unsettled conditions.

The wet pattern persists into Saturday and Sunday, with both days featuring likely showers and thunderstorms and rain chances ranging from 70 to 80 percent. Highs remain steady in the lower 80s, while nighttime lows hold near 70.

Memorial Day and early next week are also expected to stay unsettled. Scattered to likely showers and thunderstorms continue through Monday and Tuesday, with highs in the lower to mid 80s and persistent rain chances between 50 and 80 percent.

Overall, Rapides Parish is looking at a prolonged period of wet, storm-prone weather, with multiple days of heavy rain potential and limited breaks in activity. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates, especially for outdoor plans and travel.

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A section of Will White Road in Ward 7, District E, will be closed to thru traffic beginning Wednesday, May 20, 2026, due to bridge replacement work, according to a public notice from the Rapides Parish Police Jury.

The closure will begin at 8 a.m. and is expected to remain in place for approximately three weeks or until further notice, depending on the progress of construction.

Officials said the road will be fully closed to through traffic during the project to allow crews to safely complete bridge replacement work. Drivers in the area are advised to plan alternate routes and expect delays.

The notice was issued by the Rapides Parish Police Jury, which thanked residents for their patience and cooperation during the construction period.

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The Rapides Regional Medical Center has recognized Cardiovascular Surgeon T. Mack Granger, M.D., as the newest recipient of its Outstanding Physician Award.

The hospital said the award is given to members of its medical staff who consistently meet high standards in the practice of medicine, serve as role models for their peers, and demonstrate exceptional service in support of the hospital’s mission of providing high-quality, efficient, and compassionate care.

Dr. Granger was nominated following a life-saving response to a medical emergency. According to the hospital, a staff member heard a telemetry alarm on 3 South, prompting Dr. Granger and colleague Heather Gunn to respond to a patient’s room. The patient was found in ventricular fibrillation, and the team initiated chest compressions and delivered two shocks. The patient subsequently regained circulation and was later able to sit up and speak with the care team.

Hospital officials congratulated Dr. Granger, noting his quick response and teamwork in the critical situation as an example of outstanding clinical care and dedication to patient outcomes.

The recognition highlights ongoing efforts at Rapides Regional Medical Center to acknowledge physicians and staff who demonstrate excellence in emergency and critical care settings.

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When you hear ‘Peach Festival’, you may picture baskets of fuzzy peaches, maybe a peach cobbler bake-off, or even a parade. But here in Ruston, the Louisiana Peach Festival is so much more than just a celebration of our locally grown fruit. It is a time to experience the rich tradition and culture that can only be found in our small historic town. Residents and visitors alike come for this special day, filled with activities that keep people coming back year to year. This year’s Peach Festival in Ruston is Saturday, June 6.

Here are 5 ways that the Peach Festival exceeds just peach appreciation (although, we love our peaches too):

1. A Love Letter to Louisiana Culture

Area artists, vendors, musicians, and makers are the forefront of what makes this festival thrive. Browsing our curated arts market with 90+ artists of all mediums allows you to get a glimpse into the vibrant arts of our state. And you can’t miss the music! Louisiana-based musicians play on the Railroad Park Stage to ensure the spirit of the festival carries on into the night. Celebrate our Louisiana roots with us, and dive into what makes our culture so unique.

2. The Food Scene Goes Full Peach (In the Best Way Possible)

Here in Ruston, we pride ourselves on the quality and diversity of our local restaurants and food trucks. The creativity of Ruston’s culinary scene is unmatched, and the sweet peach flavor is no exception. In the week leading up to the festival, 30+ local restaurants come together for the Peach Culinary Crawl, featuring unexpected dishes, drinks, and pairings. From a peach caprese turkey melt to a pint of locally-brewed peach wheat ale, indulge your tastebuds with this staple, seasonal ingredient.

3. It Still Holds Tight to Its Sweet Southern Traditions

Of course, it would not be a southern festival without all of the classic contests and exhibits. The Peach Pageant, Peach Parade, Antique Car Show, Peach Rodeo, Peach Art Exhibit, and Cookery Contest are all ways that the community engages with the roots of the festival. These fun traditions have been happening for generations, and plan to stay for many, many more. The Ruston community continues to add to these celebrations, with sidewalk sales, a 5K race, and even a Pickleball Tournament. All these traditions keep the festival feeling like a small town gathering, keeping it close to the hearts of our residents and visitors.

4. It’s One of the Few Festivals Where You Don’t Feel Nickel-and-Dimed

The Peach Festival prides itself on having free admission, making it accessible for a Saturday full of activities. In Kids Alley, there are no paid vendors, allowing all kiddos to enjoy hands-on crafts, games, entertainment, and more festival activities. It is the perfect opportunity to bring the family out for fun that won’t break the bank. Our goal is to make the festival easy and accessible for all ages to enjoy!

5. It Feels More Like a Community Gathering Than a Carnival

No flashy rides or ferris wheels here – the Peach Festival provides something even more memorable. Surrounded by the painted murals of downtown, local organizations, and all the friendly volunteers, it’s easy to feel like a part of the Ruston community that we know and love. With festivities happening from morning to late into the night, you have plenty of time to experience the festival at your own pace. So bring out your lawn chair, grab a bite, listen to the music, and enjoy all the sights and sounds of our community. 

The traditions, culture, and hospitality surrounding this celebration reminds us that this isn’t just a festival, but a signature kind of Southern experience you don’t find everywhere. The peach flavor is just the tip of the iceberg to all of the sweetness of peach season in Ruston, LA. 

For more information on the 76th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival and to see the full schedule of events, visit www.lapeachfest.com/. 

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The Sugar Bowl and the Louisiana High School Athletic Association are together again.

The organizations have announced a landmark partnership through which the Sugar Bowl will serve as the title sponsor of all 16 LHSAA-sanctioned sports state championships. The six-year agreement was collaboratively secured by the LHSAA and Playfly Sports, the sports industry’s leading revenue maximization company.

Rapides Parish had three state championship teams in 2025-26:  Peabody Warhorses boys basketball, Pineville Lady Rebels softball and Glenmora Wildcats baseball. State tournaments next year will be presented by Allstate under terms of the agreement announced Monday.

Northwood-Lena principal Alex Goodling, a former baseball player and assistant coach at Louisiana Christian University, is one of two Class A representatives on the LHSAA’s executive committee, which oversees the LHSAA staff and manages policy decisions for the organization.

“The Sugar Bowl is honored to have the opportunity to once again partner with the LHSAA to serve as the title sponsor for its championship events,” said Jeff Hundley, the Chief Executive Officer of the Sugar Bowl. “We have worked with the LHSAA for many years and expanding our current agreement allows us to support even more great young athletes throughout the state.”

The Sugar Bowl, which was founded in 1934, and the LHSAA, which was founded in 1920, are two of the most venerable sports organizations in Louisiana. The two organizations have worked together for many years, including the Bowl serving as the title sponsor for the LHSAA championship events from 2014- 2020.

The Sugar Bowl has been the presenting sponsor of the LHSAA football state championships since 2020, meaning it has had the opportunity to recognize 140 high school football state champions from 50 different high schools since 2014.

With this new agreement, the football state championship, which features title games in eight divisions, will now be entitled the “LHSAA Allstate Sugar Bowl Prep Classic.”

“The LHSAA was founded over 100 years ago to serve student-athletes across the entire state of Louisiana, and that remains our constant focus,” said Eddie Bonine, executive director of the LHSAA. “This partnership will drive additional visibility for our efforts and enable us to continue creating first class events for our student athletes.”

He said it will also elevate the visibility and prestige of high school athletics across Louisiana through investment in recognition, access, and opportunity for student-athletes.

The Sugar Bowl will fund annual scholarships for outstanding student-athletes as well as continuing to support the CFP Foundation’s “Extra Yard for Teachers” program. The CFP and the Sugar Bowl have contributed over $5 million to support Louisiana teachers since 2019.

Additionally, students will benefit from elevated championship experiences including branded awards, on-field recognition, and enhanced event production, while expanded digital, broadcast, and promotional platforms increase visibility for schools and athletes statewide.

“This partnership, in bringing together two like-minded non-profit organizations, will have a multiplicative impact in supporting their communities in Louisiana,” said Brent Vander Mey, Group Vice President of High School and Youth at Playfly Sports. “At Playfly, we’re excited that this deal bridges high school and college athletics, providing additional reach that will amplify both of their efforts to unique audiences.”

In addition to high school events, the Allstate Sugar Bowl is involved in numerous sporting events and recognition programs for athletes at all levels. All of these activities serve the organization’s original mission of generating tourism for the region through athletics. To that end, Bowl events last year generated over $360 million in economic impact for the region, and over the last decade have created over $2.6 billion in impact, producing over $190 million in direct tax revenue for New Orleans and Louisiana.

With the new LHSAA arrangement, the Sugar Bowl Committee now sponsors or administers 43 annual events, all of which will play a role in driving economic benefit for the city and state.

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No one has more secrets than bass fishermen, especially tournament bass fishermen! If you’re an angler fishing for bass, crappie or anything else, there are certain things you never reveal. For bass tournament anglers, it’s considered a cardinal sin to reveal how and where you’re catching bass. Since the beginning of competitive bass fishing, anglers have always been very secretive about what they know. 

So why are anglers sworn to such secrecy and not telling others about what they do and how they do it? Well one reason would be, it’s about finding fish and making sure other anglers don’t figure out where their secret locations are.

For tournament bass fishermen, the practice of being hush-hush has gone on forever. The problem is some anglers can’t find their own fish and will resort to whatever means necessary to poach another angler’s location. 

One thing that separates a great angler from an average one is the ability to find bass. Guys that develop this skill have a major advantage over those that can’t. Some anglers who are desperate will pay other anglers or fishing guides for waypoints and locations that hold bass.  

Some anglers are very tight-lipped about where and how they are catching fish. Forever, anglers have exercised their right to remain silent about information that someone can use against them in a tournament. 

So why are anglers so compelled to withhold this valuable information or sometimes try and mislead other anglers they are competing against with false information? 

First, it’s the money and prizes anglers are fishing for today. Some tournaments offer cash payouts while others offer both cash and prizes like a new bass boat!  Isn’t it funny how when there’s money involved, morals and ethics go out the window. 

Several circuits have high payouts with the winner taking home $100,000 or more for a win. Also, if it’s a high-level tournament trail, it’s not just about the money, but it’s the points they can earn that allows them to qualify for a championship at the end of the season.

Pretty much every circuit has a points system that will reward anglers who finish in the circuit’s top 20 or 30 percent at the end of the regular season, with an opportunity to fish for a championship which has an even greater payout. 

One thing that has been practiced forever on all tournament trails is the bond between small groups of anglers who, in most cases, room together on the road. These are guys that trust each other and feel confident that no matter what information they share, they know it won’t leave the group. 

With this being said, there are a few exceptions on who an angler will tell where and how he is catching bass. The thing about tournament bass fishing is that it creates a comradery among a select few anglers who TRUST one another.  

They trust the fact that while they might give away locations and how they are catching bass among each other, they know no one in their group will encroach on the location they have been told about during the tournament. But they will take this information and try to find a spot similar and catch their own fish.

This secrecy among anglers is what makes the sport of tournament bass fishing so unique, along with the comradery that is seen in only a few select sports. 

But this trust or bond can be a problem if just one angler decides to go outside the group and share information they promised not to tell. It’s like a marriage, once the trust is broken, the relationship is over! Bass tournament anglers are no different!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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