Belle Chasse, LA – April 21, 2026 — Charles Ballay, District Attorney for Plaquemines Parish, proudly hosted the 16th Annual Senior Citizens’ Day on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the Belle Chasse Auditorium. This year’s event, themed “Taco Tuesday,” brought together a room packed with seniors from across the parish for a day of fellowship, education, and entertainment.
The event was made possible through the generous support of numerous local businesses throughout Plaquemines Parish. Attendees were warmly welcomed with coffee and pastries before opening remarks from District Attorney Ballay.
Several parish officials addressed attendees, including Keith Hinkley, Parish President of Plaquemines Parish; Kim Turlich-Vaughn, Clerk of Court for Plaquemines Parish; and Sara Taylor, Assessor for Plaquemines Parish, each offering insights and words of appreciation for the parish’s senior community.
Public safety and awareness were key focuses of the event. Deputies from the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office (PPSO) provided valuable information on how to recognize and avoid scam phone calls. Troy Leglue, Financial Center Leader for Hancock Whitney, shared guidance on protecting finances from banking scams, while Lisa Laird of NOLA Persistence educated attendees on selecting trustworthy Medicare agents and avoiding fraudulent solicitations.
Healthcare updates were also highlighted. Leslie Preist of Plaquemines Parish Medical Center informed guests about the new Quest Diagnostics services now available at the Plaquemines Parish Medical Center Urgent Care in Belle Chasse. First Assistant District Attorney Sarah Ansardi Tesvich of the Plaquemines Parish District Attorney’s Office spoke on crimes currently impacting elderly residents and ways to stay protected.
Following the presentations, seniors enjoyed lively rounds of bingo, musical entertainment by Johnny Justus, and visits with vendor tables featuring resources on banking, funeral pre-planning, and local medical services.
A special appearance was made by Kristin Nash, Orange Festival Queen, who spent time visiting with attendees.
The event concluded with a delicious Taco Tuesday lunch catered by Eva’s Catering. Rev. Mandrel Pansey of Greater Macedonia Baptist Church in Port Sulphur blessed the meal.
District Attorney Charles Ballay expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, speakers, and vendors whose continued support reflects the strong sense of community that defines Plaquemines Parish. He extended a special thank you to the dedicated volunteers from the District Attorney’s Office staff, the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office, and community members who generously gave their time to ensure the event’s success.
We would also like to recognize Stephanie Foret of NOLA Treasured Memories, who volunteered her time to capture memorable moments from the day.
As he prepares to conclude his final term in office, District Attorney Ballay noted that events like Senior Citizens’ Day have always held a special place in his heart, serving as a meaningful way to honor the parish’s senior citizens and celebrate the unity and pride of the community he has been proud to serve.
