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Frank Guarisco, leader in civic causes, dies at 84

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 1:15pm

Staff Report

A walk-through wake for Frank S. Guarisco, a Patterson businessman who joined his wife Joy in a variety of philanthropic causes, is scheduled for Wednesday night. Guarisco, 84, died Oct. 7 at Ochsner St. Mary in Morgan City.
Guarisco ran an insurance agency for more than half a century in the same Patterson building where he worked as a boy in his parents’ grocery store. He was a veteran of the Marine Corps.
Frank and Joy Guarisco were honored in October 2019 as Leaders in Philanthropy by the Community Foundation of Acadiana. Frank Guarisco was also a recipient of the Bishop’s Service Award.
Guarisco was involved in the Boy Scouts for 56 years, and he and his wife helped secure funding to move the Boy Scout Hut when its future was made uncertain by improvements at Patterson’s Morey Park.
The Guariscos were instrumental in securing the funding to build a new weight and training facility for the student-athletes at Patterson High School. The building was named in Frank Guarisco’s honor and called “Frank’s Chopping Block.”
As the Guariscos’ philanthropy continued to grow, they stepped up when their church was in need. The couple was instrumental in helping the St. Joseph Catholic Church with raising $1.8 million to renovate the church and parish hall.
Guarisco’s other projects included the return of the St. Joseph’s Table at St. Joseph Catholic Church, playing an important role in organizing the Patterson Recreation Department, coaching Little League baseball for 42 years and serving as chairman for Kemper Williams Park.
Guarisco was an active member of the Knights of Columbus for 56 years and was a Grand Knight.

Governor: Louisiana will stay in Phase 3

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 1:13pm

DAVID JACOBS, The Center Square

Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards on Thursday said Louisiana would remain in Phase 3 of the White House-approved restrictions meant to control the spread of COVID-19 until Nov. 6.
The announcement comes as some legislators continue to call for an end to all pandemic mitigation measures and question the governor’s right to impose them, arguing the rules handcuff the economy and violate basic individual rights.
The order limits restaurants, churches, salons, spas, gyms and other businesses to a maximum of 75% of their normal occupancy.
Face coverings are required in public places.
Bars are allowed to open, but only in parishes where COVID-19 positivity rates are low for two full weeks and local officials allow it. Edwards said 40 parishes qualify now and 27 have opted in.
In a previously announced change, the new order allows for alcohol sales at sporting events.
He said organizers of fairs and festivals can submit plans to state officials for review and possible approval, though none will be allowed to have more than 500 people on site at a time.
Edwards said the White House coronavirus task force recommends Louisiana keep its mitigation rules in place, adding that the restrictions wouldn’t be changed much until a vaccine is available.
“There just isn’t a lot further to go in terms of loosening restrictions before we are fully back to normal,” he said.
A resolution to suspend the governor’s order for 30 days has passed the state House of Representatives but not the Senate.
Multiple petitions to end the state of emergency have been circulating among legislators, though none has gathered enough signatures so far.
Republicans have proposed numerous measures that are pending in the current special session that would allow legislators to end or amend a governor’s executive order, though legislators have not yet coalesced around a specific instrument.
Business owners have sued to overturn some or all of the restrictions, though the courts so far have sided with the Edwards administration.
Since the pandemic began, Louisiana officials have confirmed 172,059 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 5,462 deaths. Almost 158,000 of those COVID-19 patients are believed to have recovered.

Berwick falls to 0-2 with loss at Rayne

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 1:11pm

GEOFF STOUTE

gstoute@daily-review.com

The Berwick Panthers made some strides from week 1 to week 2 of the high school football season but also made some of the same mistakes in week 2 in their 42-21 loss to Rayne Wednesday as the initial week of play.
While the Panthers scored 21 points and totaled nearly 400 yards of offense, the squad also was plagued by turnovers and missed tackles, Berwick coach Mike Walker said.
Although he said it wasn’t an excuse, Walker said it was tough only having two days of practice to prepare.
“It was difficult,” he said. “If we had those other days of practice, does it make a difference? I don’t know, but two days is tough for anybody.”
Rayne (2-0) led 14-7 after a quarter, took a 28-14 lead into halftime and extended its lead to 35-14 after three quarters.
Berwick (0-2) totaled 391 yards of offense (278 rushing and 113 passing).
The Panthers’ offense was led by Jayden Milton, who had 25 carries for 193 yards and two touchdowns.
Andre Engleton added six carries for 67 yards.
Quarterback Cru Bella completed 10 of 25 passes for 113 yards with a touchdown and three interceptions.
Zach Gonzales was his leading receiver with five catches for 63 yards and one score, while Kaeden Thomas had three receptions for 44 yards.
“I thought the pass protection still wasn’t quite where we needed it to be, but it was better,” Walker said. “We just have to do a better job of protecting the football.”
As for Rayne, the Wolves had two ball carriers gain over 100 yards as Ron Charles had 23 carries for 139 yards and two scores, while Darian Chevalier had 12 rushes for 105 yards and one score.
Quarterback Colin LaCombe threw for 76 yards and one score, to Devion Francis. Francis finished the game with two receptions for 26 yards, while Reid Dupont had a 44-yard catch.
Berwick will return to action Friday when it hosts Cohen for homecoming, while Rayne will travel to Geismar to face Dutchtown Friday.
Additional reporting by www.crowleypostsignal.com.

State House approves tax break for energy companies

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 1:09pm

DAVID JACOBS, The Center Square

Louisiana’s House of Representatives o approved a tax break for the oil and gas industry that could be worth $157 million.
Supporters said the estimate is exaggerated.
House Bill 29 by Rep. Phillip DeVillier, a Eunice Republican, would give companies a severance tax exemption for new wells or wells undergoing enhancements for two years or until the investment is paid off, whichever comes first.
DeVillier touted the measure as a way to get industry service companies back to work at a time when oil prices are low and demand for fuel has not fully recovered amid the COVID-19-related recession.
“This bill has the ability to create jobs,” he said.
The Legislative Fiscal Office estimates the change could cost the state $157 million over the five-year life of the program.
The office assumed most wells would qualify for the full 24-month exemption, an assessment DeVillier disputes.
In fact, supporters of the bill say it could lead to more tax revenue for the state because they believe it will motivate new investment that wouldn’t happen otherwise.
Representatives voted 68-22 to send HB 29 to the Senate.
In other action Tuesday, the House approved:
House Bill 20: Would provide an income tax deduction for families who hired a tutor to facilitate online education for their child or children.
The tax break is capped at $5,000, though the bill’s sponsor, Baton Rouge Republican Rep. Rick Edmonds, said it would be worth a couple hundred dollars.
House Bill 26: Would establish a sales tax holiday this year on Nov. 20 and 21 on sales up to $2,500. The Fiscal Office estimates the tax break will save shoppers a total of $4.5 million.
House Bill 64: Would create an Office of Broadband and Connectivity within the governor’s office. The office would not have regulatory authority. Rep. Daryl Deshotel, the Marksville Republican who authored the bill, said the office would be able to coordinate various programs in hopes of expanding broadband access in the state.
House Bill 25/Senate Bill 14: Would expand access to the Louisiana New Markets Jobs Act tax credit that may be claimed against the insurance premium tax, which normally is based on the investment of private capital in a low-income community business. Investments in four parishes affected by Hurricane Laura would be eligible even if not made in a designated low-income community.

FRANK S. GUARISCO

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 1:06pm

Frank S. Guarisco, native and lifelong resident of Patterson, passed away at the age of 84, the morning of October 7, 2020, at Ochsner St. Mary in Morgan City.
Frank was the son of Sebastian “Frank” Guarisco and Josephine Domino Guarisco. Frank was a man who loved his God, his church, his family and his Italian heritage. He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He was an independent insurance agent for over 50 years. He believed in being a good citizen and serving others. He was an avid sports fan and faithfully watched the Lumberjacks, LSU and the Saints. He enjoyed playing sports in his younger days; especially baseball, softball and tennis.
Being a good citizen and helping others lead him to serve on numerous committees and leadership positions at St. Joseph Catholic Church, The Knights of Columbus, The Boy Scouts, Kemper Williams Park (chairman), Atchafalaya Golf Course, etc. He was instrumental in organizing the Patterson Recreation Department, the PHS booster club, and coached Little League Baseball for 42 years. He also sponsored many kids for Boys and Girls State.
Frank was responsible for re-instituting the annual St. Joseph Table, which was so dear to him. He was a very active member of the KC’s for 62 years; serving in many capacities including Grand Knight. He was awarded the State Family of the Year and State Knight of the Year. All his contributions resulted in him receiving many awards through the years. Due to his work with the Boy Scouts, both locally and with the Evangeline Area Council, he was awarded the Silver Beaver, the Bronze Pelican and the St. George Awards including several others. Most recently he and his wife received the Leaders in Philanthropy Award St. Mary Parish and the Bishop’s Service Award.
He will be sadly missed and his memory cherished by his high-school sweetheart and wife of 61 years, Joy Boudreaux Guarisco; three children, Curt Guarisco and his wife Sandi of Patterson, Glynn Guarisco and his wife Becky of Patterson, and Denise Matherne and her husband Earl of Des Allemands; five grandchildren, Ashley Cordray and her husband Wesley, Macee Fugate and her husband Travis, Austin Guarisco and his wife Olivia, Cameron Guarisco, and Margo Matherne; three great-grandchildren, Eva, Asher and Adlie; one sister, Josie Moncado of Houston; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Pete Guarisco; his sisters, Maria Wiese and Frances Guarisco; and an infant sister, Mamie Ann.
A walk-through wake will be held from 6 until 9 p.m. on Wednesday October 14, 2020, at Ibert’s Mortuary in Patterson. Masks and social distancing will be required. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held for the family with Fathers Herb Bennerfield, Michael Russo and Angelo Cremaldi. Frank will be laid to rest in the St. Joseph Cemetery Mausoleum. Serving as pallbearers will be Curt, Glynn, Austin and Cameron Guarisco, Earl Matherne, and Jaret Rentrop. Honorary pallbearers will be Ray Rentrop, JW McCann, Frank Cali, Nick Moncada, Wayne Guarisco, Don Domino, Greg Hamer, and posthumous Carol Vinning.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that you please consider contributions to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1011 First Street, Patterson, LA 70392 or your favorite charity.
Family and friends may view the obituary online by visiting www.iberts.com and are encouraged to share their condolences, cherished memories, love, and support for the family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ibert’s Mortuary, Inc., 1111 Lia St., Patterson, LA 70392, (985) 395-7873.

JOHN ROBERT DRACKETT JR.

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 1:04pm

1935-2020
John Robert Drackett Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in The Woodlands, Texas, on October 3, 2020, surrounded by his wife and six children. John Robert was born in Morgan City, La., on November 11, 1935 to Catherine Griffin “Griff” (nee Hebert) and John Robert “Jack” Drackett.
Following graduation from S.L.I. (N/K/A University of Louisiana @ Lafayette) in 1957, John was commissioned into the United States Air Force as a Second Lieutenant stationed at Phalsbourg Air Base in France, where he served in the 32nd/38th Tac Reconn Squadron, retiring from the service as a Captain in 1969. John Robert enjoyed a long and storied career in the oil and gas industry that saw him move his family from south Louisiana to the great state of Texas.
John Robert was married to the love of his life, Gay, for 63 years and together they raised a loving family of six children instilling in them virtues of honor and integrity, emphasizing that faith and family should be honored above all. John Robert was a lifelong Episcopalian, former Junior Warden and Vestry Member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Morgan City, La., and most recently a member of Trinity Episcopal Church in The Woodlands, Texas. John Robert was also a member of Jerusalem Shriners and a 32nd Degree Mason of the Scottish Rite of Free Masonry, member of Doric #205 F.& A.M.
John Robert is survived by his wife, Carolyn Gay Bennett Drackett; his son, Robert Carter Drackett and wife Kathleen; daughters, Roxanne Drackett; Tara Hermis and husband, Walter; Lindy Walvoord and husband Jeff; Carolyn Campbell and husband Greg; Sarah Dismuke and husband, Richard; 16 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, and a fourth due in December. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Jaclyn Drackett Cutone and husband, Camille and Joan Drackett Garber and husband, Charles, as well as seven nieces and three nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his older brother Roy G. “Mike” Simmons.
The family would like to thank Dr. Moises I. Nevah and Dr. Tugrul Purnak for the extraordinary care provided to Dad over the past two years. In addition, thank you to the entire nursing staff of 9W Jones at Memorial Hermann TMC for the care and compassionate support they provided not only to our father, but also to our family. The family would like to offer special thanks to Dad’s nurses aide, Amylou, Dophil, Erin, Josh, Leo, Noricel, Peace, Saly, and Sesun and his angelic PCA’s Jennifer, Terreika, Christina and Kenny.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2020, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hargrave Funeral Home. Due to Covid-19, social distancing restrictions and masks are required. The family will hold a private funeral service at Trinity Episcopal Church, in Morgan City, LA, followed by interment at the Morgan City Cemetery. Extended family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of John Robert’s life following the service on Wednesday. Further details will be provided at the visitation.
In keeping with government mandate, Hargrave Funeral Home and the church require that all guests wear face masks and adhere to social distancing protocols upon entry into the funeral home and church.
In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to the JDRF, P.O. Box 37920, Boone, IA. 50037-0920.

WILLIAM 'DARBY' WASHBURN

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 1:02pm

February 2, 1968 — October 7, 2020
William “Darby” Washburn passed away on Wednesday, October 7, 2020, surrounded by his children and family. During his short 52 years, he accomplished many goals and enjoyed great success. He was born on February 2, 1968, to Bill Washburn and Azilda Marino Washburn in Enumclaw, Washington. Just a few years later, his family moved to Norco, Louisiana. Darby quickly found a love for duck hunting, fishing, and even gardening by working in his grandfather’s crop fields. At 14, he started his first job at Sportsman’s store in Norco and never stopped working to help his family and friends.
At 18, Darby joined the United States Marine Corps, serving in Desert Storm and later continuing in the reserves. He landed his first big job at Shell Chemical at the age of 20. Five years later he gave it all up to bring his young family home to Morgan City to work in the oilfield where he could have the chance to make it big. Darby did just that, accomplishing every goal he ever set for himself. He made his family proud by first working his way up from tank cleaner to general manager of Coral Marine Services. From there, he went on to start his own successful businesses, including his beloved Washburn Marine Shipyard.
He loved his family and his many friends and his presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his children, Alexander Joseph Washburn and Anna Leigh Washburn of Berwick, Louisiana; his brothers, Jamie Washburn and his wife, Summer, of Pasco, Washington; Bill Washburn of Priest River, Idaho; Brad Washburn of Washington; Eddie Marino of LaPlace, Louisiana; his sister, Connie Johansen of Port Orchard, Washington; and his nephew, Nathan Washburn of Pasco, Washington.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Azilda Marino Washburn of LaPlace, Louisiana and his father, William Henry Washburn of Ellensburg, Washington.
A time of memorial visitation will be held for Darby on Thursday, October 15, 2020, from 9 a.m. until memorial services which will begin at 2 p.m. at Hargrave Funeral Home.
In keeping with government mandate regarding limited gatherings, Hargrave Funeral Home can accommodate 150 guests in the facilities during the memorial visitation and 75 guests in the chapel during memorial services. All guests are required to wear a mask upon entry of the funeral home.

Berwick teen arrested on armed robbery charge, burglary warrants

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 12:58pm

A Berwick teenager was arrested Thursday after a disturbance call and was arrested on counts that include armed robbery and simple burglary, Police Chief David Leonard reported.

—Juvenile male, 17, Berwick, was arrested at 7:29 p.m. Thursday on a charge of armed robbery and on warrants alleging five counts of simple burglary; seven counts of attempted simple burglary; six counts of attempted simple burglary; and seven counts of simple burglary.

About 6:40 p.m. Thursday, officers responded to the 3500 block of La. 182 in reference to a large disturbance. Officers arrived and learned that the disturbance was the result of a robbery that took place moments prior. Investigators uncovered evidence linking the 17-year-old to the robbery.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the boy was placed under arrest and was transported to the Berwick Police Department for booking. He was found to have active warrants through the Berwick Police Department as well.

He was booked into the Berwick Jail and later released pending juvenile court proceedings. This matter remains under investigation.

Morgan City Police Chief James F. Blair reported these arrests:

—Harley Nicole Acosta, 22, Cypress Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:16 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of criminal damage to property less than $1,000 and on a warrant for telephone harassment.

—Keith Christopher Prestenback, 22, La. 663, Morgan City, arrested at 1:24 p.m. Wednesday on charges of criminal damage to property less than $1,000, domestic abuse battery and criminal trespass.

Officers were called to an address on Sixth Street for a disturbance. They learned a domestic disturbance had occurred between individuals. During the officer's investigation, they learned a domestic disturbance had occurred at two different addresses, and property damage had occurred.

Officers learned Prestenback and Acosta were involved in the disturbance, and the following charged filed at the conclusion of the officer's investigation. Prestenbach and Acosta were placed under arrest.

—Misty Gaudet, 32, Railroad Ave., Morgan City, was arrested at 5:14 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of criminal trespass.

Officers were called to an address on La. 182 for and individual trespassing. They learned Gaudet was trespass-ing at the address. She was placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.
—Clint Brown, 37, Levee Road, Morgan City, was arrested at 5:51 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of simple battery, cruelty to a juvenile and two counts of criminal damage to property less than $1,000.

Officers were dispatched to Levee Road in Morgan City for a disturbance. They came into contact with Brown.

A warrant check revealed the Morgan City Police Department held an active warrant for his arrest. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.

—Dylan Joseph Theriot, 19, Belle River Road, Pierre Part, was arrested at 7:07 p.m. Wednesday on charges of headlamps for motor vehicles, expired motor vehicle inspection and driving under suspension.

An officer conducted a traffic stop in the area of Levee Road and Fig Street. The driver was identified as Theriot.

A computer check revealed his driver's license was under suspension. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.

—Martaisha Lynn Brown, 35, Joseph Street, Siracusa, was arrested at 7:56 p.m. Wednesday on charges of possession of marijuana (first offense) and illegal used of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of a person under 17.

Officers were called to a Levee Road address for a disturbance. They came into contact with Brown. She was found in possession of suspected marijuana in the presence of a person under the age of 17 years of age. She was placed under arrest and transported to the Morgan City Police Department for booking and incarceration.

St. Mary Parish Sheriff Blaise Smith reported these arrests:

—Nicolas Anthony Gamble, 40, Jupiter Street, Bayou Vista, was arrested at 3:14 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of domestic abuse child endangerment law-aggravated. No bail has been set.

—Nicolette Molo Elmore, 43, Natalie Lane, Patterson, was arrested at 9:05 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of telephone calls-harassment. Elmore was released on a summons to appear Jan. 7.

—Lindsay Rae Carline, 35, Charenton Road, Franklin, was arrested 4:05 a.m. Thursday on a charge of trespass-vehicular. Carline was released on a summons to appear Jan. 7.

Morgan City police radio logs for Oct. 7-8

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 12:53pm

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.
Wednesday, Oct. 7
12:47 p.m. 2400 block of Sixth Street; Arrest.
1:04 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Complaint.
1:45 p.m. 800 block of Freret Street; Complaint.
1:56 p.m. U.S. 90 West; Traffic incident.
2:11 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Complaint.
2:13 p.m. 500 block of Terrebonne Street; Telephone harassment.
2:48 p.m. U.S. 90 West; Traffic incident.
3:22 p.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; 911 hang up.
3:53 p.m. La. 70/U.S. 90; Crash.
4:41 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Removal of subject.
5:39 p.m. 300 block of Levee Road; Removal of subject.
6:26 p.m. 1200 block of Clothilde Street; Alarm.
6:51 p.m. Old Bridge; Stalled vehicle.
7:03 p.m. Levee Road and Shaw Street; Arrest.
7:16 p.m. 300 block of Levee Road; Disturb-ance.
7:48 p.m. 600 block of Terrebonne Street; Juvenile problem.
8:01 p.m. 7500 block of La. 182; Removal of subject.
9:15 p.m. 1700 block of Federal Avenue; Drug activity.
9:53 p.m. 2400 block of Cypress Street; Animal complaint.
11:13 p.m. Shannon Street; Frequent patrols.
11:17 p.m. 2500 block of Elm Street; Frequent patrols.
Thursday, Oct. 8
1:16 a.m. 1800 block of Elk Street; Animal complaint.
1:47 a.m. Terrebonne and Front streets; Open vehicle.
1:49 a.m. Third Street and Railroad Avenue; Suspicious person.
2:33 a.m. Sixth and General Hodges Street; Juvenile problem.

Popeye knew the health benefits of spinach

Mon, 10/12/2020 - 9:24am

Doctors may not recommend their patients take dietary advice from cartoons, but people looking to eat healthy could do worse than to follow the example set by Popeye. The beloved, nearly century-old, musclebound cartoon sailor often credited his incredible strength to spinach, a nutrient-rich green vegetable that can benefit the body in myriad ways.
A 2010 study from researchers at Mahidol University in Bangkok found that children increased their vegetable consumption after watching Popeye cartoons.
While adults can certainly follow suit and watch more Popeye if they need motivation to eat right, many may only need to learn just how spinach affects their body to start including more of it in their diets.
Here are some of the benefits:
—Spinach is good for your bones. The National Osteoporosis Foundation notes that green foods, including kale, spinach and Brussels sprouts, are great sources of vitamin K and calcium, each of which promotes healthy bones.
Spinach alone won’t be enough to prevent broken bones or osteoporosis, but when coupled with exercise and an overall healthy diet, spinach can be a key component to keeping bones healthy and reducing risk for fractures.
—Spinach can help fight off viruses. The world received a crash course in immunology in 2020, when the global COVID-19 pandemic changed life as the world knew it, seemingly in the blink of an eye. As measures to prevent the spread of the virus took hold, individuals looked for ways to bolster their immune systems.
Leafy green vegetables, including spinach, are loaded with vitamins and nutrients that strengthen the body’s immune response. For example, vitamin A is fat-soluble vitamin that’s vital for immune system function, and spinach is loaded with it. In fact, a single cup of cooked spinach provides men and women with more than the recommended daily amounts of vitamin A as advised by the Institute of Medicine.
—Spinach promotes a healthy heart. Spinach is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, B vitamins and fiber, making it a heart-healthy food worthy of addition to anyone’s diet. Spinach is especially rich in folate, which research has shown promotes the growth of healthy red blood cells necessary for a healthy heart.
—Spinach can benefit your eyes. Spinach is high in the antioxidant lutein, which has been linked to eye health. Lutein naturally absorbs UV blue light, which is the most harmful wavelength of sunlight. But it’s important that people recognize that uncooked spinach tends to be the most effective way to consume it and still benefit from lutein, the effects of which may be minimized when the spinach is cooked.
Whether they eat spinach thanks to the influence of a beloved cartoon character or after reading about the leafy green vegetable’s many health benefits, people who include spinach in their diets can reap a host of rewards.
Try this recipe for a fresh take on spinach.

SPINACH AND STRAWBERRY SALAD
Honey-Dijon Dressing:
2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
2 Tbsp. honey
2 Tbsp. orange juice
1 Tbsp. white vinegar
1 tsp. poppy seed
2 tsp. Dijon mustard
Salad:
1 small jicama
2 kiwi
1 cup fresh strawberries
8 cups ready-to-eat spinach
In a tightly covered jar, shake all the dressing ingredients.
Peel the jicama, removing the brown skin and a thin layer of the flesh just under the skin. Cut half of the jicama into 1-by-¼-inch sticks to measure about ¾ cup. Wrap remaining jicama and refrigerate for another use.
Peel the kiwi. Cut lengthwise in half, then cut into slices. Rinse the strawberries with cool water and pat dry. Remove the leaves and cut the berries lengthwise into slices.
Remove and discard the stems from the spinach leaves. Rinse the leaves in cool water. Shake off excess water and blot to dry with paper towels. Tear any large leaves into bite-size pieces.
In a large salad bowl, place the spinach, strawberries, jicama sticks and kiwi slices. Shake the dressing again to mix ingredients. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients, and toss.
Serve immediately.