Happy Friday, Central Louisiana! We hope you had a great week!
College football is back—but we all know it doesn’t actually start until next Saturday in Clemson, South Carolina, aka Death Valley Jr. ;)
So, whether you’re going to be watching some of the games this weekend, checking out one of the local events, or have nothing planned at all, there’s plenty happening around Cenla to make for a great weekend.
Now scroll down and enjoy the weekend ahead!
In today’s edition:
Pineville High Receives a Huge Donation
An Opportunity to Support a Local Family
Weekend Bites: Li’l Chubby’s
Multiple Events
Job Opportunities
— The Know Cenla Team
Cenla Digest
Pineville High Receives a $100k Donation from Giles Hyundai
Although faculty and students aren’t receiving brand new 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe’s, there’s something special happening at Pineville High School—thanks to a generous commitment from Giles Hyundai. The dealership has pledged a total of $100,000 in support, spread over the next four years.
Here’s how the donation breaks down:
Corporate Football Sponsorship: $8,000 every year from 2025–2028.
First-Year Boost (2025): $10,000 toward a brand-new digital score table for the school’s main gym.
Flexible Support: The rest of the funds each year will be directed to other school needs, coordinated between Giles Hyundai and Pineville High’s leadership.
This a multi-year investment that’ll strengthen school spirit, enhance student experiences, and ensures that our community has even more to be proud of at Pineville High (the editor is a Tioga Alumni, it pained him to write that).
It’s a reminder of what’s possible when local businesses step up to support education: better facilities, stronger programs, and opportunities that leave a lasting impact on generations of students.
Ethan Henagan & Family Recovery Fund
Source: The Family’s GoFundMe
Right now, a Cenla resident is in dire need of support. Here is how you can help:
Taken directly from Ethan’s family’s GoFundMe page:
“Ethan was in a terrible motorcycle accident and is in the ICU fighting for his life. He’s already been through two major surgeries, but the road ahead is still very long and uncertain.
If you know Ethan, you know how big his heart is for the people he loves. He’s the type who would never ask for help, so I’m asking for him. He would never want his family stuck paying for his care, and I know it would mean everything to him to see them supported. With his parents retired and his sister taking time off work to be by his side, I know finances are going to be on their minds. They deserve to be by his side and able to focus solely on him without worrying about bills piling up. Unfortunately, the world keeps going when one family's world completely stops and stands still. This is one small way we can help and bring something good about during this time.
Every donation will go straight to the Henagan family to cover medical costs, lost wages, and the long recovery ahead. Thank you for giving, sharing, and praying! It all makes a difference and shows Ethan and his family just how loved they are.
I can't wait until he recovers and is able to see every donation, share, and just how many people love him. (& that's anyone who has ever had the pleasure of knowing him!)”
If you would like to help financially support the Henagan family, you can do so here at: https://gofund.me/3bee387e
Another way you can help support Ethan and his family is by going to this weekend’s restaurant feature, Li’l Chubby’s, this Sunday. The next section of this newsletter is our feature on them + information for this Sunday’s fundraiser 👇
Weekend Bites: Li’l Chubby’s
Source: Li’l Chubby’s Facebook Page
Li’l Chubby’s: Comfort Food with a Big Heart
If you're wanting a weekend treat that’s delicious, fun, and deeply local, Li’l Chubby’s belongs at the top of your list.
Here’s why it’s a standout:
All your favorites, all in one place: Burgers, foot-long hotdogs, chicken, cheese curds, fries, pickles—and all the sauces you need to go with them.
Retro car-hop with modern care: Drive in, order ahead, or sit inside and enjoy fast, friendly service from their great staff.
An employer that cares: Beyond the menu, the team invests in their staff—offering everything from an on-site gym and laundry room to financial support and career development tools.
Supporting the community: This Sunday, August 24th, when you grab a meal at Li’l Chubby’s (open 11AM–7PM), 15% of their sales will go to the Henagan family to support Ethan’s recovery efforts.
Source: Li’l Chubby’s Facebook Page
So, whether you’re treating the kids after church or grabbing dinner with friends, this place delivers something extra—a sense that here, you’re among neighbors who truly care.
Tip: Make sure to grab some extra napkins if you get chili & cheese on your Glizzy Boy.
Where: 701 Main Street, Pineville, LA 71360
Find out more: Check their menu and hours →
Advertise With Us!
We’re Looking for Partners for Know Cenla.
Are you a brand new or established business looking to become more known in the Central Louisiana area? We are looking for locally-owned businesses that would like to become a Know Cenla sponsor! Sponsorships are placed directly within this section of the newsletter and can include:
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Hero or Section banners
Press Releases
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To learn more about the pricing and our options, reach out to us at [email protected]
Cenla Events
Here are some notable events happening around Cenla this weekend:
Tonight:
Cross Branded Cowboy Church Rodeo | 7PM-8PM, Aug 22 (More Info)
Location: 6906 Highway 28 East, Pineville, LA, 71360
Description: Come out and bring the whole family for a night of rodeo at Cross Branded Cowboy Church in Pineville, LA. Free Admission. We have some bleachers but lawn chairs are welcome. There is an event for everyone. Concessions available.
Saturday:
Day One of the Cotile Drag Race Championship | 5AM, Aug 23 (More Info)
Location: Cotile Lake Recreation Area
Description: Southern 3 Cylinder Outboard Outlaw Drag Club.
Hosted By: CLEAN-Cotile Lake Environmental Association, Rapides Parish Police Jury, & Lil Boo's Y-Not Stop.
AMoA Adult Printmaking Workshop with Madilyn Anderson | 10AM-3PM, Aug 23 (More Info)
Location: Alexandria Museum of Art
Description: Join printmaker Madilyn Anderson in an exploration of Kitchen Lithography. Participants will be able to create their own fine art lithographs using common household items such as aluminum foil, sharpies, vegetable oil, and cola. All supplies are included in the cost of the class. There will be a short break for lunch; please bring your own snack/lunch.
Indoor Pool Party at the Paragon Casino | 2PM-6PM, Aug 23 (More Info)
Location: Paragon Casino Resort
Description: Make a SPLASH at Paragon Casino Resort with new WEEKLY pool parties!
Top Axe Fundraiser for Cenla Pregnancy Center | 2-10PM, Aug 23 (More Info)
Location: 110 Versailles Blvd, Alexandria, LA 71303
Description: Come in and throw some axes to help a great local cause! Tell us you’re here to support Cenla Pregnancy Center and make a difference in the lives of women and children in our community. 25% of proceeds will be donated to the Cenla Pregnancy Center!
Alexandria Football - Road to the Dome Premiere | 8PM-9PM, Aug 23 (More Info)
Location: The Grand Alexandria
Description: Join us for the red carpet premiere of Bonton Media’s original documentary, Alexandria “Football Road to the Dome,” on August 23rd at The Grand Alexandria. This one-night-only, semi-formal event will feature multiple showings, celebrating the Alexandria Senior High Trojans’ remarkable journey during the historic 2024 football post-season. The film captures the team’s challenges, triumphs, and the unwavering support of their community, showcasing pivotal moments that defined their season. Attendees can look forward to an evening filled with excitement, including appearances by team members, coaches, and local figures, along with opportunities to engage with the film’s creators. Pre-sale tickets are required for entry, as no tickets will be sold at the door. Secure your tickets in advance to be part of this inspiring celebration of the Trojans and their incredible journey.
This event is brought to you by Calvary Baptist Church and Saddler Towing.
Sunday:
Day Two of the Cotile Drag Race Championship | 2PM, Aug 24 (More Info)
Location: Cotile Lake Recreation Area
Description: Southern 3 Cylinder Outboard Outlaw Drag Club.
Hosted By: CLEAN-Cotile Lake Environmental Association, Rapides Parish Police Jury, & Lil Boo's Y-Not Stop.
More:
Central Louisiana The Real Easy’s 48 Hours in Cenla Guide:
Click the button below to checkout an article written by Central Louisiana The Real Easy back in June that offers a 48 hour itinerary for the outdoor and local culture lover within us all! Although it’s written more with the out-of-towner in mind, it can still give you some great ideas for fun this weekend even if you’ve lived here for all of your life:
The Weekend Poll
What do you think of Know Cenla so far?
Job Board
House Keeper - Legacy Nursing & Rehabilitation, Pineville, LA (Apply)
Customer Service Representative - Southern Air Heating Cooling & Plumbing, Alexandria, LA (Apply)
RN: OB/GYN - American Medical Staffing, Alexandria, LA (Apply)
Thanks for reading this Friday edition of Know Cenla! We really appreciate all of the great feedback we received on Monday’s poll. We look forward to continue bringing you more valuable content every single week through this newsletter. We’ll see you Monday morning at 8AM!
— The Know Cenla Team
