The Louisiana Economic Development Committee is working on final plans for the first annual Ruckus on the Riverfront that will be held on August 14th from 3-9. Activities for the day include live music by Jessie and the South, a Washer Tournament, BBQ Sandwiches, Soft Drinks and a Beer Garden. The group is using this event as a fundraiser to help with the many projects and programs it has in place to help downtown Louisiana. The committee’s focus project, dubbed Downtown Louisiana, is patterned after the National Main Street Program and has Four Points; Economic Restructuring, Organization, Design and Promotion. The group instituted a Façade Grant Program a few years ago and up until the last couple of years, annual contributions garnered during the annual funds drive were sufficient enough to extend the grants. The board wants to continue to be able to help local businesses and business owners fix and repair building exteriors, install awnings and signs, but without building the grant fund they will not be able to continue. Around $50,000 has been granted to dated and the group declares that those funds have led to nearly ½ Million dollars reinvested in the downtown focus area.
Registration for the Washer tournament begins at 2 at the Gazebo, however, early registration can save $5 off of the team registration fee of $30. Teams of two can pre-register by completing registration forms found throughout town. Rules and Regulations of play will be distributed before the tournament begins. Pulled Pork Sandwiches are being provided by John Miederhoff of Johnnies’ Custom Q’n and served by committee volunteers. The Beer Garden will open at 3pm and both the music and tournament will be able to be viewed from within the fenced area of the garden. Music will begin at 3pm and Jessie and the South will take to the stage at 5pm. Bleachers will be in place for spectators, however, everyone is encouraged to bring a lawn chair and enjoy the entire evening of activities.
If anyone would like more information, they may contact the LEDC office or email committee chairmen Ben Logan (ben.logan@bola.cc) or John Lynn (sales@atlweldingsupply.com) .