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Valentine's: Flowers and their various meanings

Flowers can represent various emotions. Flowers play a prominent role in many and holidays, perhaps none more than Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day is a busy day for florists. ProFlowers says it accounts for most of the industry’s fresh flower sales. Around 78% of the flowers purchased for Valentine’s Day are cut flowers, and men are the top consumers.
Roses are the go-to flower on Valentine’s Day, but shoppers can look to various blooms to send the right message to that special someone in their lives. In fact, each type of flower conveys its own unique message.
ProFlowers and Pickup Flowers note that the following are some popular blooms and the messages those flowers are traditionally associated with.
—Amaryllis: This flower is symbolic of splendid beauty and can be used to indicate worth.
—Aster: The aster symbolizes patience, elegance and daintiness.
—Calla lily: This bloom symbolizes magnificence and beauty, as well as purity and innocence. That is why calla lilies are often the flower of choice in wedding bouquets.
—Carnations: These are one of the most popular flowers in the world and are generally symbolic of love and fascination.
—Daffodil: Daffodils symbolize regard and chivalry. They also can be indicative of rebirth, new beginnings and eternal life. A single daffodil can signal misfortune, while a bunch expresses joy and happiness.
—Gerbera daisies: With large, beautiful blooms in a wide assortment of vibrant colors, gerbera daisies are a favorite flower for cheerful sentiments.
—Gladioluses: These tall, striking flowers are eye-catching and make great gifts for significant others. The gladiolus symbolizes honor, infatuation and strength.
—Iris: Irises represent faith, hope and wisdom, and are cherished for their big, beautiful blooms.
—Peony: This flower, which resembles a rose, symbolizes a happy life, happy marriage, prosperity and good health.
—Rose: Roses symbolize love in its various forms, and different colors of roses symbolize different things. For example, yellow roses represent care and friendship, while pink roses are given as a token of admiration.
Flowers are popular gifts come Valentine’s Day. Choosing a flower that best represents the feelings gift-givers want to convey can incorporate even more meaning into a bouquet or basket.

Son may be hasty in plan to sign up for fatherhood

DEAR ABBY: My 25-year-old son has been dating a girl for two or three months. She seems very nice. She has two children and is pregnant with her third child. She’s due in three months. The child is not my son’s.
I was told by some friends of my son that he’s planning to sign the birth certificate as the father. He understands the implications. How do I convince him that, although he feels like he and this girl will be together for the long haul, this is a poor decision to make, especially because of the short length of time they have been dating?
TOO MUCH, TOO SOON

DEAR TOO MUCH, TOO SOON: Although it can be difficult to convince someone in the throes of new love, you and your son’s friends should urge him to discuss this with a lawyer before signing ANYTHING. He needs input from someone who is not emotionally involved and can explain the legal ramifications of what he’s considering.
Not all romances have storybook endings, but if this relationship leads to marriage in the future, he can always adopt or provide financially for the child if he wishes. I sincerely hope you and the others who care about him can get through to your son.

DEAR ABBY: My college-aged granddaughter is no longer speaking to me, answering my phone calls or allowing her other grandmother (who raised her) to post anything on Facebook where I can see what she is doing.
My granddaughter came to live with me last summer because she worked a summer job here. I asked her if she was gay, not because I think she is but as a prelude to a conversation about not allowing other girls to recruit her into a same-sex relationship as I saw in college and while teaching public school. Although I tried to explain, things have grown progressively worse.
My son and her mother married when she was 7 and divorced when she was 13. Over the years, I worked hard to develop and maintain a relationship with her. Now, she has told the other grandmother that she will never speak to me again.
Was what I did so bad, and what should I do now?
OTHER GRANDMOTHER IN NORTH CAROLINA

DEAR OTHER: What you said wasn’t “bad,” but it was misinformed and heavy- handed. While same-sex relationships do happen in high school and college, young people don’t usually indulge unless they are already at least bi-curious. Even then, straight people don’t suddenly “turn gay.”
Your granddaughter may still be trying to figure out her sexual orientation, which could be why she has reacted so strongly. If you are wise, you will allow her the time she needs to sort it out, rather than push or panic.

DEAR ABBY: My daughter and I have a wonderful relationship. But I am very upset because she listens in on the speaker phone to every conversation I have with my 11-year-old grandson.
I really believe we should have privacy, and I think it’s strange that she does this. Is she justified, since she knows I’m disturbed by speakerphones in general?
CONCERNED NANA IN THE EAST

DEAR CONCERNED: You wrote that you have a wonderful relationship with your daughter. Have you asked her why she feels monitoring your calls to your grandson is justified?
From my perspective, her behavior may be hypervigilant, but whether it is justified isn’t a question that someone who isn’t familiar with your family dynamics can answer.
***
For an excellent guide to becoming a better conversationalist and a more sociable person, order “How to Be Popular.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby, Popularity Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.

Morgan City police radio logs for Jan. 17-19

The following are the radio dispatch logs from the Morgan City Police Department. To report unlawful or suspicious activity, call the police department at 985-380-4605.
Sunday, Jan. 17
5:38 a.m. 7700 block of La. 182; Assistance.
7:05 a.m. 800 block of Brashear Avenue; Loud music.
8:26 a.m. 600 block of Grove Street; Complaint.
6:06 p.m. 6000 block of Railroad Avenue; Medical emergency.
10:44 a.m. 900 block of Willard Street; Animal complaint.
11:51 a.m. 1400 block of Maple Street; Complaint.
12:04 p.m. 1800 block of Filmore Street; Damage to property.
12:23 p.m. 200 block of Belanger Street; Complaint.
1:05 p.m. 1000 block of Cottonwood Street; Animal complaint.
2:41 p.m. Old Bridge Eastbound; Suspicious subject.
2:53 p.m. Brashear Avenue and Seventh Street area; Accident.
3:41 p.m. 300 block of Franklin Street; Warrant/no contact.
3:51 p.m. 2000 block of Railroad Avenue; Suspicious subject.
4:15 p.m. Victor II and Martin Luther King boulevards area; Speeders.
4:59 p.m. Lawrence Park area; Complaint.
5:50 p.m. Louisiana and Fifth streets; Frequent patrols.
Monday, Jan. 18
3:49 a.m. 700 block of Belanger Street; Medical.
4:43 a.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; 911 hang up.
7:59 a.m. 1500 block of Bernice Street; Medical.
8:22 a.m. 300 block of Julia Street; Alarm.
9:03 a.m. 2100 block of Federal Avenue; Complaint.
9:36 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Arrest.
9:43 a.m. Florence Street; Disturbance.
10:52 a.m. 500 block of Third Street; Complaint.
11:44 a.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Complaint.
12:27 p.m. 3000 block of Lake Palourde Road; Complaint.
12:53 p.m. Maine and Fifth streets; Disturbance.
1:55 p.m. 300 block of Terrebonne Street; Complaint.
2:44 p.m. 500 block of Aucoin Street; Juvenile problem.
2:58 p.m. La. 70/U.S. 90 Junction; Complaint.
4:04 p.m. Veterans Boulevard; Lost and found.
4:37 p.m. 1100 block of McDermott Drive; Complaint.
4:38 p.m. U.S. 90 West; Assistance.
4:38 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Assistance.
4:46 p.m. 500 block of Roderick Street; Complaint.
5:42 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Theft.
6:41 p.m. 300 block of Egle Street; Fireworks.
6:49 p.m. Berwick; Arrest.
9:26 p.m. 500 block of Egle Street; Medical.
10:05 p.m. 800 block of Brashear Avenue; Stand by.
11:40 p.m. Brashear Avenue; Reckless driver.
11:47 p.m. 300 block of Franklin Street; Animal.
Tuesday, Jan. 19
12:43 a.m. Apple Street; Medical.
1:18 a.m. 300 block of Egle Street; Complaint.

Stopped for blue lights, three arrested on drug charges

(Editor’s Note: The charges listed here and the narratives that go with them are provided by the police agencies that made the arrests. Guilt or innocence has not been determined in court.)

Berwick officers who stopped a vehicle with blue headlights, among other blue lights, ended up making three arrests on drug charges, according to the Police Department.
Berwick
Police Chief David Leonard reported these arrests:
 —Jarvis J. Preston, 34, Joan Drive, Franklin, was arrested at 12:44 a.m. Monday on charges of proper equipment required, possession of Adderall, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
—Shaquille L. Conner, 29, Willow Wood Drive, Franklin, was arrested  at 12:44 a.m. Monday on charges of possession of marijuana, possession of MDMA (ecstasy) and possession of drug paraphernalia.
—Nicholas K. Turner, 28, Easy Street. Franklin, was arrested at 12:44 a.m. Monday on charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Officers observed a vehicle traveling on U.S. 90 with blue headlights, blue license plate lights and side accent lights. A traffic stop was conducted and Preston, Conner and Turner were identified as the occupants in the vehicle.
Through investigation, a probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted and drugs and paraphernalia were located inside of the vehicle as well as on the individuals persons. All three were placed under arrest and booked into the Berwick Jail.
Preston was released after posting a $7,500 bond, Conner was released after posting a $7,500 bond, and Turner was released after posting a $3,500 bond. 
—Traelen J. Duhon, 19, Second Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 2 a.m. Saturday on an Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office warrant for failure to appear on a charge of criminal damage to property.
 Officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding on La. 182. The driver was identified as Duhon, and a warrants check revealed that he had an active warrant through the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office. Duhon was placed under arrest and booked into the Berwick Jail, where he remains awaiting transfer to Assumption Parish. 
 —George Harvey, 39, Cane Street. Morgan City, was arrested at 12:45 p.m. Saturday on a St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office warrant for failure to appear on a charge of possession of methamphetamine and two warrants for failure to appear in drug court.
Officers responded to a residence on Texas Street for a disturbance. Officers learned that Harvey was at the residence and left prior to their arrival.
Harvey was located walking in the area, and a warrants check revealed that he had three outstanding warrants through the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office. Harvey was placed under arrest and booked into the Berwick Jail, where he remains with no bond set.  
 —Joseph L. Gary, 34, Henry Street, Patterson, was arrested at 3:30 p.m. Saturday on a Berwick Police Department warrant for theft.
Gary walked into the Berwick Police Department to turn himself in on an active warrant. The warrant stems from an investigation into a theft that occurred Jan. 9.
At that time, officers were unable to locate Gary, therefore, a warrant was issued for his arrest. He was booked into the Berwick Jail where he remains in lieu of a $326 bond. 
 —Darren J. Droddy, 43, Burchfield Lane, Berwick, was arrested at 12:41 a.m. Sunday on charges of battery on a dating partner by strangulation, disturbing the peace (intoxicated), resisting an officer and simple criminal damage to property.
—Micki F. Noto, 51, La. 70, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:59 a.m. Sunday on a charge of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.
Officers responded to a residence on Burchfield Lane in reference to a disturbance. Officers spoke to each individual separately and while doing so, Droddy, who was intoxicated, refused to stop yelling and cursing.
Officers detained him and he tried several times to pull away the officers until they were finally able to get him into the police car. Once in the police car, Droddy kicked the window, causing it to break.
Through investigation, officers determined that Noto entered the residence without authorization and a physical altercation ensued in which Droddy committed a battery upon her both inside and outside the residence.
In conclusion, Droddy and Noto were both placed under arrest and booked into the Berwick Jail. Droddy remains without bond and Notto was released after posting a $2,500 bond. 
 Assumption
Sheriff Leland Falcon reported these arrests:
—Mikie Lynn Landry, 22, Mike Street, Pierre Part, was arrested Sunday on a charge of possession of Alprazolam.
—Drevin M. Willis, 22, Prairie Road, Franklin, was arrested Sunday on an Assumption Parish warrant for failure to appear.
— Justin Louis Vosberg, 30, Susan Court, Morgan City, was arrested Sunday on two fugitive warrants from St. Mary Parish.
Deputies responded to a complaint in Pierre Part and spoke to the caller, who indicated a speeding vehicle passed near his home and he followed the alleged violator in order to obtain a license plate number.
At some point, the occupants of that vehicle followed the complainant and allegedly threatened him.
Deputies were able to identify the vehicle and were able to locate the vehicle near First Street.
Upon interviewing the three occupants, they were identified as the driver, Vosberg, and passengers Willis and Landry.
As a result of this investigation, all three suspects were arrested and booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center. Landry and Willis were incarcerated pending bond hearings. Vosberg awaits transfer to St. Mary Parish.
—Douglas K. Ferris, 34, Eagle Point Drive, Pierre Part, was arrested on charges of felony theft and simple criminal damage to property in connection with a Jan. 9 incident.
On Jan. 9, deputies responded to an Eagle Point address, at which time it was reported that a four-wheeler valued at $5,000 and a pirogue had been stolen in the days prior.
Deputies and detectives initiated an investigation and seized some physical evidence. Additionally, with public assistance, Ferris was identified as a suspect.
Deputies had been trying to locate Ferris but was unsuccessful. Deputies obtained a search warrant and were able to ping Ferris’ location at an address in the 4000 block of La. 70.
Deputies located Ferris and learned through investigation that the four-wheeler was hidden in a wooded area off La. 70.
Deputies located and seized the ATV. There was extensive damage to the ATV’s ignition. The four-wheeler was recovered.
Ferris was arrested and booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center pending a bond hearing.
—Jordan Luke Vidos, 35, Fourth Street, Morgan City, was arrested Sunday morning on charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, battery of a dating partner and disturbing the peace, and on a fugitive warrant.
Deputies responded to a call for assistance from a Bayou L’Ourse resident for a subject with a gun threatening to harm himself and a female acquaintance.
Deputies observed the subjects of the investigation standing near the roadway. They further noted the male to be armed. Deputies disarmed the male and detained him.
The investigation revealed that the couple had engaged in an argument and at some point, the man, identified as Vidos, used his firearm and made threats towards the victim and further committed a battery upon her.
It was determined that Vidos is a convicted felon.
Vidos was arrested and booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center pending a bond hearing.
Morgan City
Police Chief James F. Blair reports that over the last 96-hour period, the Morgan City Police Department responded to 29 calls of service. He reported these arrests:
—Gerron Deshawn Skipper, 32, Grizzaffi Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 9:05 a.m. Friday on a warrant for failure to appear.
Skipper was transferred from the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office Detention Center and booked on an active warrant held by the City Court of Morgan City. He was incarcerated at the Morgan City Police Department.
—Lucille May Gussman, 40, Franklin Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:50 p.m. Friday on charges of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, domestic abuse battery and resisting an officer.
Officers were called to a Franklin Street address for a report of a stolen vehicle. They learned Gussman committed a domestic battery on an individual and left the address in a family member’s vehicle without permission. She was later located walking away from the vehicle on La. 70 and placed under arrest.
During the arrest, she pulled away from arresting officers. She was transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.
—Christopher Darnell Seymore, 46, Bright Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:44 a.m. Saturday on charges of turning movements and required signals, resisting an officer, possession of marijuana, possession of MDMA (ecstasy), possession of methamphetamine, and possession of cocaine.
An officer was on patrol and observed a traffic violation in the area of La. 182. A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver was identified as Seymore.
During the traffic stop, Seymore fled from officers on foot. Officers were able to capture Seymore and place him under arrest after a brief foot chase.
During the arrest, he was found in possession of suspected marijuana, MDMA, methamphetamine and cocaine. He was transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.
—Shane Joseph Granger, 33, Chetta Lane, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:24 p.m. Saturday on charges of theft under $1,000 and flight from an officer.
—Buster L. Henry Jr., 32, Chetta Lane, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:24 p.m. Saturday on a charge of theft under $1,000.
An officer on patrol observed a suspicious vehicle in front of a closed business on South Railroad Avenue The vehicle pulled off and attempted to evade the officer.
The officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop when the driver and passenger fled on foot from the vehicle. The officer was able to capture and detain the passenger Henry. Officers located the driver, Granger, on Chatta Lane with assistance from the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office.
During the investigation, officers learned Granger and Henry were in the process of stealing metal from the property of the business for scrap when the officer came into contact with him.
They were placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.
—Michael Charles Barletta, 39, Hemlock Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 2:08 a.m. Sunday on charges of stop lamps and turn signals and possession of an alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle.
An officer observed a traffic violation in the area of Front Street A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver was identified as Barletta.
During the traffic stop, the officer observed an open alcoholic beverage in his vehicle. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.
—Jamerie Tyhein Gash, 18, Railroad Avenue, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:14 p.m. Sunday on charges of failure to dim headlights and possession of marijuana.
An officer observed a traffic violation in the area of Ditch Avenue. A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver was identified as Gash.
During the traffic stop, he was found in possession of suspected Marijuana. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.
—Daniel L. Bushinelle, 62, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:49 p.m. Sunday on charges of turning movements and required signals and possession of methamphetamine.
An officer on patrol and observed a traffic violation in the area of Railroad Avenue. A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver was identified as Bushinelle.
During the traffic stop, he was found in possession of suspected methamphetamine. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.
—Justin Wyatt Baker, 27, Haz Del Lane, Houma, was arrested at 1:31 a.m. Monday on charges of turing movements and signals required and driving while intoxicated (second offense).
. An officer on patrol observed a traffic violation in the area of Willard Street and Eighth Street. A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver was identified as Baker. During the traffic stop, the officer suspect driver impairment.
He was placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department. Once at the Morgan City Police Department, he was given an Intoxilyzer test and gave a breath sample of .086g%. He was booked and incarcerated at the Morgan City Police Department.
—Justin Vosburg, 29, Susan Court, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:42 a.m. Monday on warrants for two counts of failure to appear for trial and failure to pay probation free.
Vosburg was transferred from the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office Detention Center and booked on active warrants held by the City Court of Morgan City. He was incarcerated at the Morgan City Police Department.
—Michael Cousson, 56, Sixth Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 7:28 p.m. Monday on charges of illuminating devices required, operation a motor vehicle with suspended driver’s license, possession of an alcoholic beverage in motor vehicle, and possession of marijuana.
An officer observed a traffic violation in the area of Federal Avenue and Brashear Avenue. The officer conducted a traffic stop and identified the driver as Cousson.
During the traffic stop, he was found in possession of suspected marijuana and an open alcoholic beverage. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.
St. Mary
Sheriff Blaise Smith advises that over the last 96-hour reporting period, the Sheriff’s Office responded to 141 complaints and made the following arrests:
—Raykita D. Coleman, 28, Jeanerette, was arrested at at 8:02 p.m. Friday for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Coleman was released on a summons to appear April 27.
—Shane Carter, 25, Baldwin, was arrested at 9:59 p.m. Friday on charges of no license plate, no driver’s license, no insurance, open container and switched license plate/stolen license plate.
Carter was released on a summons to appear April 27.
 —Malika Paxton Hines, 35, Jeanerette, was arrested 11:32 p.m. Friday on a charge of possession of synthetic cannabinoids. Hines was released on a summons to appear April 27.
—Billy Fletcher, 38, Thibodaux, was arrested at 12:07 p.m. Saturday on a charge of possession of marijuana. Fletcher was released on a summons to appear April 27.
 —Ashlee Fletcher, 31, Thibodaux, was arrested at 12:07 p.m. Saturday on charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Fletcher was released on a summons to appear April 27.
 —Paulino Garcia Lopez, 35, Morgan City, was arrested at 12:31 p.m. Sunday on charges of careless operation, no insurance, no driver’s license and no registration in vehicle.
Lopez was released on a summons to appear on April 27.
 —Denniell Daigle, 33, Franklin, was arrested at 6:01 p.m. Monday on charges of domestic abuse battery and domestic abuse child endangerment law. No bail has been set.
 —Lorenzo Cardell Marks, 33, Jeanerette, was arrested at 9:48 p.m. Sunday on a warrant for failure to appear on the charges of speeding, operating a vehicle without a driver’s license, and failure to honor a written promise to appear. Marks was also charged with the following new charges: failure to signal, no license plates, no insurance, aggravated flight from an officer and possession of marijuana.
No bail has been set.
—Rodney Williams, 64, Franklin, was arrested at 1:31 p.m. Monday on charges of driving under suspension and brake lights required. Williams was released on a summons to appear April 27.
—Tramichael Polk Sr., 29, Franklin, was arrested at 7:59 p.m. Monday on a charge of domestic abuse battery. Polk was released on a $2,500 bond.
Franklin
Police Chief Morris Beverly said the Franklin Police Department responded to 18 complaints over the past holiday weekend and made the following arrests:
 —Eric Dennis, 35, Tiger Road, Verdunville, was arrested at 3:33 a.m. Saturday on a warrant for 16th Judicial District Court for failure to appear on the charge of simple criminal damage to property and warrants for 3rd Ward City Court for failure to appear on the charge of theft.
Dennis was booked, processed, and held with no bond set at the time of press release.
St. Martin
Sheriff Beckett Breaux reported these arrests:
—Damian Romero, 48, Bares Road, Abbeville, was arrested Monday by the Henderson Police Department on a hold from Florida.
—Pamela Batey, 44, Joe Kidder Road, Arnaudville, was arrested Sunday on a charge of domestic abuse battery.
—Jeffery Grebinger, 61, Quail Run Road, Breaux Bridge, was arrested Sunday on a charge of aggravated assault.
—-Matin Sonnier, 54, Bridge Street, Parks, was arrested Sunday on a charge of domestic about battery.
These arrests were made Friday and Saturday:
—Brett Berard, 24, Bayou Portage Road, St. Martinville, was arrested on a charge of contempt of court.
—Marcus Bourda, 42, North Vivier Street, St. Martinville, possession with intent to distribute Schedule I narcotics; manufacture/distribution/possession with intent to distribute Schedule II narcotics; transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses; and following too closely.
—Tiffany Fontenot, 31, Anse Broussard Highway, Breaux Bridge, was arrested on charges of improper lane usage, driver must be licensed, insurance required on vehicle, possession of Schedule II narcotics, illegal use of controlled dangerous substances in the presence of a minor, and possession of drug paraphernalia, and on a warrant for failure to appear.
—Ojerden Mallet, 32, La. 31, Arnaudville, was arrested by Louisiana State Police on charges of operation of a vehicle while intoxicated, possession of Schedule II narcotics, driver must be licensed, careless operation, simple possession of marijuana and obstruction of justice.
—Bobby Bergeron, 33, Bruce Street, Breaux Bridge, was arrested on a charge of domestic abuse aggravated assault.
—Erick Broussard, 46, Stagg Street, St. Martinville, was arrested on charges of ignoring a stop sign and violation of a protective order.
—Chelsey Comb, 28, Bernard Lane, Arnaudville, was arrested on charges of theft valued at $1,000-$4,999 and forgery.
—Jaquan Ledet, 21, Delcambre Road, Breaux Bridge, was arrested on a charge domestic abuse battery.
—Jonah Paddio, 38, Benoit Road, Breaux Bridge, was arrested on charges of domestic abuse battery (strangulation) and domestic abuse aggravated assault with child endangerment.
—Katajheron Primus, 25, Old Genessee, Tickfaw, was arrested on an outside agency’s extradition warrant.

Two confirmed COVID fatalities, three probable reported in local parishes

Two confirmed COVID-related deaths and one probable were reported in St. Martin at midday Tuesday, and two probable COVID-related fatalities were reported in St. Mary. A total of 83 new confirmed COVID cases were reported in those parishes plus Assumption by the Louisiana Office of Public Health.

St. Mary has 10 new confirmed COVID cases for a pandemic total of 3,034 with 521 probable cases. The parish now has had 97 confirmed COVID fatals with another 10 probably related.

St. Martin has 54 new confirmed cases for a total of 4,048 with 340 probable. The St. Martin death toll is now at 89 confirmed with nine probable.

Assumption has 19 new cases for a total of 1,307 confirmed with 349 probable. The death toll there remains at 27 confirmed and two probable.

Statewide:

--2,126 new cases Tuesday raise the confirmed count to 328,860 with 43,229 probable.

--71 newly reported fatalities raise the statewide toll to 7,833 with 491 probable.

--11 more COVID-positive people are hospitalized for a total of 1,905.

--10 more people are on ventilators for a total of 249.

Parish Council hears concerns about care at animal shelter

FRANKLIN — The St. Mary government administration will take a look at concerns raised last week by an animal advocate who said some procedures should be changed at the parish shelter.
Those concerns were raised by Michaelyn Campbell at Wednesday’s Parish Council meeting. Parish President David Hanagriff said the council heard those concerns for the first time and that the administration will look into them.
The concerns focused on the availability of veterinarian care and the fee charged for animals dropped off at the shelter by people who no longer want them. And they drew a sharp response from Chief Administrative Officer Henry C. “Bo” Lagrange.
“I’d put our shelter up against anyone’s,” LaGrange said. Any allegation that animals are being neglected or mistreated there is “a total lie,” he said.
Campbell responded by saying the shelter is “tremendous” and “amazing.”
“There are some small things we need to work on,” she said.
Later in the week, LaGrange acknowledged Campbell’s devotion to animal welfare.
“She is very passionate and dedicated when it comes to animals,” LaGrange said. But “we think we have a good brand of care for animals at our shelter.”
There are constraints, he said.
The shelter, which went through a significant expansion recently, has an annual budget of $310,000 to $320,000 a year, about $200,000 of which came from the parish government general fund in the most recent budget year. The shelter handled 1,150 animals in 2020, LaGrange said.
At the meeting, Campbell asked about the availability of vet care. Some animals, including those involved in cases of mistreatment, stay at the shelter for days without care despite serious injuries.
In an interview, LaGrange said the shelter has a full-time veterinarian on call and that services are sought as they’re needed.
“Most vets we have, their hearts are in the right place and they work with us.”
Another problem, Campbell said at the meeting, is a $65 fee charged by the shelter for those who surrender animals to the shelter. She pointed to a parish ordinance that says animals may be surrendered to the shelter at no cost.
She suggested lowering the fee to $20.
“We have several instances where people go to drop off the animal and they can’t afford the $65,” Campbell said, “and they end up shooting the animal or dumping it somewhere.”
In the interview, LaGrange said the ordinance applies only to unincorporated areas. The fee applies to animals surrendered from the five municipalities, which LaGrange estimated account for about 40% of the animals brought to the shelters.
Some municipalities pay the fee, LaGrange said, and some don’t.
Campbell also suggested raising the fee pet adopters pay to cover the expense of vaccinations, spaying or neutering from $97 to $130. Adopters receive certificates they can present to veterinarians to pay for the procedures.
She also asked whether anyone is following up to see if animals have been vaccinated or neutered within the required 30 days.
LaGrange said he’s talked with Campbell about her concerns and explained how the shelter is run.
“Obviously, her coming here tonight and presenting these things [mean] she doesn’t agree with the way we’re operating. …
“If you can find additional dollars to help us operate the shelter, we welcome them,” LaGrange said.
“I’m not here to put this burden on y’all,” Campbell said. “I’m here to help find ways to improve our animal shelter, if I have to write grants, or whatever.”
“We want to operate in a good manner,” LaGrange said in the interview, “and review our procedures to provide the care that is warranted.”

Scholar athletes at Central Catholic

Submitted Photo/Central Catholic
The Acadiana Christian School Athletic Association Football League recognized junior high football players for their academic performance in the classroom and leadership on the field. Central Catholic’s fifth- and sixth-grade Leadership Award winner was JP McCleary and Highest GPA winner was Xailen Hebert. Its seventh- and eighth- grade Leadership winner was Austin Cornes and Highest GPA winner was Benjamin Case. From left are Central Catholic Junior High football coach Tyler Jensen, McCleary, Hebert, Cornes and Case.

AGNES KELLER ROBICHEAUX

November 13, 1925 — January 17, 2021
Agnes Keller Robicheaux, 95, a resident of Morgan City, passed away peacefully Sunday, January, 17, 2021, at Morgan City Health Care, surrounded by her loving family.
Agnes was born November 13, 1925, in Bayou L’Ourse, the daughter of Raymond Keller and Maggie Blanco Keller.
Agnes was a parishioner of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, as well as a member of the altar society. Agnes loved family gatherings; she enjoyed spending time with her grandkids and cooking for them. Agnes also enjoyed working in her flower beds.
She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her four daughters, Phyllis Keller Parsiola of Morgan City, Elaine Robicheaux Blair and husband Kenny of Morgan City, Juanita Robicheaux Barras of Labadieville, and Kathy Robicheaux Stelly and husband Kent of Morgan City; four sisters, Ethel K. Aucoin of Morgan City, Peggy K. Morgan of Broussard, Maggie K. Vidos of Stephensville, and Patricia “Pat” K. Laverne of Morgan City; 15 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family members.
Agnes was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Maggie Keller; husband, Marlo “Ruble” Joseph Robicheaux; daughter, Mary Robicheaux LaCoste; four brothers, Louis Keller, Eugene Keller, David Lee Keller and Raymond “Peter” Keller Jr.; one sister, Bernice Keller Aucoin; and three sons-in-law, Carl Parsiola, Jerry LaCoste and Dewey Barras.
Pallbearers will be Troy Barras, Eugene LaCoste, Kyle Stelly, Carl Parsiola Jr., Kenny Blair and Kent Stelly.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Morgan City Health Care for their great compassion and care towards Mrs. Agnes.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 21, 2021 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Toto Buenaflor officiating. Visitation will be held January 21, 2021 from 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at Twin City Funeral Home. After Mass, Agnes will be laid to rest in the Morgan City Cemetery.

WILDA LINER MOREAU

February 7, 1930 — January 17, 2021
Wilda Liner Moreau, 90, a resident of Bayou Vista, passed away peacefully Sunday, January 17, 2021 at her home.
Wilda was born February 7, 1930, on Mauvais Bois Ridge, the daughter of Arthur Liner and Liza Blum Liner.
Wilda was a selfless mom and grandmother, completely devoted to her family. She always had an uncanny relationship and connection with animals that was born from growing up on Mauvais Bois Ridge. Her unique personality made her unforgettable to all who were blessed to know and love her.
She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her husband of 35 years, James “Jim” Rupp of Bayou Vista; her children, Gary Falgout and wife Melinda of Lafayette, Mada Breaux and husband Mike of Bayou Vista, and Jodi Barras and husband Mark of Lafayette; three goddaughters, Susan Guy, Lisa Amenta and husband Max, and Connie Superneau and husband Dwayne; one brother, Roy Liner and wife Norma; four sisters, Ann Lott and husband Gerald, Eileen Liner, Gladys Henry and husband Skip, and Beverly Valdes and husband Hugo; 11 grandchildren, Matt, Kaley, Rhiannon, Sarah, Maegan, Dianne, Jason, Dustin, Yogi, Brooks and Emily; 26 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Wilda was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Liza Liner; husband, Herbert Moreau; two children, Bengy Falgout and Sandra Mayon; and nine siblings, Collins Liner, Andrew Liner, Beatrice Liner, Raymond Liner, Jimmy Liner, J.C. Liner, Carl Liner, Golden Liner and James Liner.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at Twin City Funeral Home with Yogi Barras officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at Twin City Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until the time of services. After services, Wilda will be laid to rest in the Morgan City Cemetery.

State task force: Ban choke holds, no-knock warrants

A task force the Louisiana Legislature created to develop recommendations that would lead to better policing finished its work Thursday, agreeing to proposed changes related to choke holds, no-knock warrants, body cameras and other issues.
The longest debate focused on whether a law enforcement agency should be able to investigate potential wrongdoing by one of its own members. State Rep. Tony Bacala, a Prairieville Republican and former law enforcement officer, proposed creating a certification process that, once completed by at least three members of the agency, would allow that agency to conduct an internal investigation when one of its officers is involved in a shooting that leads to death or serious injury.
Though smaller law enforcement agencies typically rely on State Police for such investigations, nothing currently stops them from investigating themselves if they choose to do so, speakers said.
“Right now, there are no real rules,” Bacala said. “We’re raising the bar above where it is today.”
But state representatives Ted James and Edmond Jordan, both Baton Rouge Democrats who are Black, said an agency should not be allowed to investigate itself at all.
“It’s the fox guarding the hen house,” Jordan said, adding that a better idea would be to create an independent agency to investigate officer shootings.
James said “police policing themselves” is not what “my community” wants. He said the U.S. Department of Justice under Attorney General William Barr recommended that states require an external agency to investigate shootings, suggesting that recommendation should carry weight with people inclined to agree with the current federal administration.
The task force voted 11-7 to approve Bacala’s recommendation.
The group voted down James’ proposal to ban officers under investigation from reviewing their body camera footage before meeting with investigators. He said going over the footage with their attorney before making a statement to an investigator could help an accused officer fabricate a story to escape punishment.
Other members found James’ proposal excessive. They said taking a look at the footage helps an officer refresh their memory about the incident.
Some of the other recommendations to the Louisiana Legislature the Police Training, Screening and De-escalation Task Force approved include:
— Reduce the amount of time an accused officer has to secure counsel from 30 days to 14.
— Increase the amount of time to complete an investigation from 60 to 75 days, including weekends and holidays.
— Ban choke holds except in cases where an officer believes they or another person are at risk of serious bodily harm.
— Require anti-bias training for law enforcement officers.
— Require agencies to develop plans to recruit more minority officers.
— Require agencies to report to prosecutors any wrongdoing by officers that might hurt their credibility in court.
— Give agencies 45 days to report incidents before fining an agency $500 a day for failing to do so.
— Direct THE Peace Officer Standards and Training Council to develop a process to potentially suspend or revoke an officer’s certification for misconduct that does not lead to a criminal conviction, which currently is required. Their proposal would be reviewed by judiciary committees in the state House of Representatives and Senate.
— Ban “no-knock” warrants unless an affidavit establishes probable cause that such a warrant is needed to protect an officer from death or bodily harm. Officers still would have to identify themselves as uniformed officers and provide audible notice that they are entering a building.
— Require dashboard cameras to be activated when an officer leaves their vehicle.
— Require agencies to establish formal policies about when body cameras must be on.

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