LAPLACE �” It was plain as day on the face of Ed Reed on Monday, as he took a moment to sit down at Belle Terre Country Club. The All-Pro Baltimore Ravens safety and former Destrehan star was busy as could be among friends and fans, but he loved every minute of it.

Because Reed was back home.

“The people and the food,” nodded the NFL star when asked what he had looked forward to the most upon his return. “As soon as you get off the plane, you feel it in the air. The heat, the humidity, the ‘How you doin’s’ and the ‘What’s happening’s’. It’s just how we talk, and I love it.” It would be hard for the energetic Reed to slink back into town unnoticed, and besides, that was hardly his intention. His week began on Monday by hosting the annual Ed Reed Golf Classic at Belle Terre, an event that was to lead into his yearly football camp for the area’s youth at Harry Hurst Middle School.

“This is what its all about,” said Reed. “Seeing everyone out here, having a great time. You see everyone here, helping and supporting us, and this is what makes it grow every year.”

The tournament proceeds went towards Reed’s “Eye of the Hurricane” foundation, which reaches out to organizations and worthwhile causes in the River Parishes.

Just under 200 golfers participated this year, which event director Glenn Younes noted as a positive considering the state of today’s economic times.

“We were pleased with the turnout,” Younes said. “We had local businesses out here, teachers, coaches, and children able to play. And everyone had a good time.”

One particular goal of the tournament is to raise money to provide college scholarships for local students. Sometimes, that scholarship can come in an unconventional way.

Take Jacob Fendlason, a student �“ and golfer �“ at Ponchatoula High School who was fortunate enough to play in Reed’s group a year ago.

As their group came up on the final three holes, Reed �“ ever the competitor �” made Fendlason a deal. Birdie the next three holes, and Reed would give him a scholarship and a car. Birdie two, and that scholarship would still be on the table.

Fendlason nailed two of three birdie putts. A year later, Reed proved a man of his word, and presented Fendlason with a $10,000 check to go toward his college education.

“I coached him up,” Reed laughed.

And while another Ed Reed Golf Classic may be in the books, to speak to the man suggests it will hardly be the last.

“This kind of stuff keeps you going. Playing in the NFL isn’t easy,” said Reed. “You have to be mentally strong. Golf helps with that. To be good at golf, you definitely have to be mentally strong.”