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SHIRLEY ANN RICHARDSON WHITE

Thu, 09/17/2020 - 10:34am

Shirley Ann Richardson White, 68, a native of Franklin, La. and resident of Lafayette, La., passed away peacefully on Friday September 11, 2020 at 1:10 p.m. at Lady of the Oaks in Lafayette, La.
Visitation will be observed on Saturday, September 19, 2020 at Greater St. Stephen Baptist Church, 305 6th Street Franklin, La. from 9 a.m. until funeral services at 11 a.m., with Minister Jarrod D. Benjamin, officiating. (All visitors are asked to adhere to the CDC-local regulations by wearing masks and practicing social distancing). Burial will follow funeral services in the Little Zion Cemetery in Verdunville, La.
Memories of Shirley Ann will forever remain in the hearts of her four sons, Christopher (Delores) White, Jr. of Franklin, La., Demarcus (Shaneeka) White of Dallas, TX, Charles (Ashley) White Sr. of Lafayette, La. and Jamal White of Dallas, TX; her siblings, Dorothy (Joseph Sr.) Howard, Woodrow Ricahrdson, and Agnes “Marie” Richardson all of Franklin, La. and Melvin (Diane) Richardson, Jr. of Lafayette, La.; nine grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Shirley was preceded in death by: her parents, Melvin Richardson Sr. and Agnes Rideau Richardson; a brother, Wilfred Richardson Sr.; her paternal grandparents, Joseph and Cordelia Richardson and maternal grandparents, Ozema and Amelia Rideau.
Jones Funeral Home of Morgan City-Franklin-Jeanerette-Houma in charge of arrangements. Visit www.jones-funeral-home.com to send condolences to family

GENEVA JOHNSON DIGGS

Thu, 09/17/2020 - 10:34am

Geneva Johnson Diggs, 61, a native of Franklin, La. and a resident of Gray, La., passed away peacefully at 5:32 p.m. on Saturday, September 5, 2020.
A public viewing will be conducted from 8 a.m. until funeral time at 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2020 at Jones Funeral Home chapel, 230 S Hollywood Road in Houma. Burial will follow in Southdown Cemetery.
She is survived by her husband, Elmore Charles Diggs Sr.; daughters, Charlotte D. Ketchens, (Shane) and Jennifer D. Jenkins (Bobby); twelve grandchildren; one great grandchild; brothers, Aaron Watson Sr. (Shelia), Karo Johnson, and Earl Tyrone Hasley (Glenda) of Morgan City; sisters, Bobby Jean Robinson and Aline Johnson; and a host of other relatives and friends.
She is preceded by her son, Elmore Charles Diggs, Jr.; parents, Orel and Elnora Robinson Johnson; brothers, Rev. Robert Lee, Mack, Charles, Ernest Johnson; sisters, Ora Poindexter, Octavia Silas, Gertrude Doll, and Mattie Lonzo; maternal grandparents, Earl and Geneva W. Robinson; paternal grandparents, Preston and Laura Johnson.
Arrangements entrusted to Jones Funeral Home of Houma.

Judy Ann Edwards

Thu, 09/17/2020 - 10:33am

Judy Ann Edwards, 51, a resident and native of Franklin, La., passed away peacefully on Saturday September 5, 2020 at Franklin Foundation Hospital.
A public viewing will be conducted from 8 am until 10 a.m. on Saturday September 19, 2020 at Jones Funeral Home 1101 Main Street Franklin, La. All visitors are asked to adhere to the CDC-local regulations by wearing masks and practicing social distancing. A graveside service will be held on Saturday September 19, 2020 at 10 a.m. in the Franklin Cemetery - Main Street in Franklin.
Memories of Judy Ann will forever remain in the hearts of her father, Frank “Chest” Edwards, of Franklin, La.; her sisters, Agnes Edwards, of Franklin, La., Esther M. Jackson, of West Memphis, AR, Loretta (Carl) Edwards Beecham of Little Rock, AR; three nieces reared as sisters, Loretha (Alvin) Edwards, Lotonya “Toni” (Woodrow) Edwards Reeves, and Erika A. Jackson; one uncle, Ulysses Cooks; one grandmother, Rose “Miss Doll” Edwards, and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and friends.
Judy Ann was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Agnes Batiste and Hammond Cooks Sr., her paternal grandparents, Frank and Mary Edwards Sr, her mother, Estherwood C. Edwards, and several beloved aunts, uncles and cousins.
Jones Funeral Home of Morgan City-Franklin-Jeanerette-Houma in charge of arrangements. Visit www.jones-funeral-home.com to send condolences to family.

Enjoy whole grains, even on gluten-free diet

Thu, 09/17/2020 - 8:47am

People adhere to gluten-free diets for various reasons. Individuals with Celiac disease have to avoid gluten because they have a form of gluten intolerance that results in severe gastrointestinal distress if they consume it.
However, others avoid gluten, which is a protein found in all kinds of wheat, including barley, rye, triticale, rye and wheat hybrids, because they’re simply allergic to wheat. Some have intolerances that are not exactly allergies or Celiac disease, but can make it difficult to digest gluten.
Whole grains, which have all of the parts of the original kernel — bran, germ and endosperm — in the original proportions, help a person to feel full longer, can help keep digestion regular and also may help the body from absorbing “bad” cholesterol. They also may lower triglyceride levels, which are a major contributor to heart disease. Whole grains also can help people maintain healthy weights.
Just because a person is following a gluten-free diet does not mean he or she needs to avoid all grains, particularly whole grains that are so essential for good health.
Most grains are gluten-free and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. These include:
—Amaranth: Amaranth is a tall plant and a few varieties are grown as a food source. It is considered a pseudocereal and is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, which is close to double the amount found in rice and corn.
—Buckwheat: Buckwheat is a good source of protein, fiber, phosphorous and the B vitamin riboflavin. It also contains all of the nine essential amino acids that humans do not produce naturally and must consume through food.
—Corn: Corn products are gluten-free and can be consumed in many forms, whether whole kernel, ground into cornmeal or cornstarch, and formed into chips or tortillas. Corn is baked into breads as well. The Whole Grain Council says recent studies have found that corn has naturally high levels of resistant starch that may be especially good at making people feel full longer.
—Oats: Oats are inherently gluten-free, but quite often they are contaminated with wheat while growing or being processed. So it’s essential to find products that contain pure oats only.
—Quinoa: This grain is native to the Andean region of South America. Another complete protein, quinoa has high amounts of other nutrients, such as potassium, that helps control blood pressure. It also is rich in antioxidants.
—Rice: Rice provides about half the calories for nearly half of the world’s population, particularly in Asia and South America. Rice can be nutritious, particularly brown rice. Just one cup of cooked brown rice also provides 88 percent of daily need for manganese, a mineral that helps the body digest fats and get the most from proteins and carbohydrates.
Going gluten-free is a choice or a necessity. People can continue to enjoy many whole grains even if they are on a gluten-free diet.

Deleted texts to new friend arouse wife’s suspicions

Thu, 09/17/2020 - 8:46am

By Jeanne Phillips, ©United Features Syndicate

DEAR ABBY: My husband is currently at a job that, at first, he complained was a “drag.” It later became a place he seemed to be OK working at.
A new male employee was hired — a man who is on his second marriage — and he became friendly with my husband. Over the last few months I have noticed my husband texting him quite often during his days off, including very late at night.
One day I confronted him after I checked his phone to see what they were texting and saw he had deleted some messages, even those he had shared with me as they were texting. He admitted that he had asked him about his first marriage and divorce since we were having some issues and said that’s why he deleted the messages.
When my husband starts drinking at home, he starts texting him, occasionally throughout the night until he goes to bed (it could be until 5 a.m.). He deletes all those messages so I can’t see them.
What do you think is going on? Even on days he is off, he goes by his job to take care of something or help out.
SUSPICIOUS IN TEXAS

DEAR SUSPICIOUS: What I think is going on is less important by far than what YOU think is going on. It appears your husband has found a kindred spirit in this new employee — or something more. Dumping on his co-worker about problems in your marriage won’t lead to satisfactory conclusions.
The two of you need to resolve your issues — including the fact that you no longer trust him — by talking them through with a licensed marriage and family counselor.
Please don’t wait until the situation deteriorates further to consult one.

DEAR ABBY: I was involved in a nearly fatal car accident some years ago. My problem is people are always telling me I should be over it by now, and there shouldn’t be any more complaints or pain at this late date.
Well, that one day changed my life drastically. I’m still healing emotionally, not to mention there are lifelong injuries I will never be able to overcome.
My back is in constant pain, and I can no longer lift anything. I also get daily horrific migraines. Because of that, I lost the best job I ever had, which has affected me more than anything.
People can be insensitive, patronizing and just plain rude if I mention any current issues regarding my condition. Most times I respond aggressively; at others, I try my best not to be offended by their lack of empathy. While I certainly don’t want or need pity, the fact that my near-death experience is shrugged off as just an “incident” bothers me greatly.
What more can I do? Or should I just stay silent and count my blessings?
SURVIVOR IN MISSOURI

DEAR SURVIVOR: There is nothing more you can do, other than politely refuse if you are asked to do something that’s now beyond your capacity. As you have discovered, responding aggressively is counterproductive.
Because these individuals have conveyed that they no longer want to hear about your accident, you may have to confide in a willing friend or a licensed therapist when you need to get things off your chest.
The latter might be more satisfying than trying to talk to people who can no longer tolerate hearing about something they have no solution for.
***
To order “How to Write Letters for All Occasions,” send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby — Letter Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.

DOTD announces U.S. 90 bridge closures Sunday for debris pickup

Thu, 09/17/2020 - 7:56am

Staff Report

U.S. 90 eastbound and westbound on the Atchafalaya River Bridge, Bayou Ramous Bridge and Bayou Boeuf Bridge will have alternating lane closures on Sunday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting, to allow crews to collect debris from the bridge’s shoulders.
All permit, oversize loads and emergency vehicles will be allowed to pass. There are no detours.
The Department of Transportation and Development reminds motorists to drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Tropical disturbance expected to move across Gulf; formation chances 90%

Thu, 09/17/2020 - 5:04am

A disturbance now off southeastern Mexico is expected to wander north across the Gulf this weekend. It has a 90% of formation through both 48 hours and five days, the National Hurricane Center said.

The storm is predicted to meander over the southwestern Gulf for a day or so before moving north and northeast Friday and Saturday.

State cabinet member outlines efforts to strengthen Louisiana's economy during COVID

Wed, 09/16/2020 - 7:32pm

BILL DECKER

bdeckerjr@gmail.com

Last month's St. Mary Chamber luncheon featured a pro-business speaker who criticized the Edwards administration's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. On Wednesday, a member of the administration outlined what has been done to bring business interests into the process.

Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson spoke at Wednesday's luncheon at the Petroleum Club of Morgan City.

In August, Stephen Waguespack, president of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, said that without new federal aid from initiatives like the Paycheck Protection Program, small businesses will find it hard to stay open. Waguespack spoke of a "shutdown culture" in which restrictions on businesses change with fluctuations in COVID-19 statistics.

Since Waguespack spoke, the U.S. Senate has rejected "skinny" COVID legislation far smaller than the $3 trillion package passed in the spring or the $3.5 trillion renewal subsequently passed by the House. Gov. John Bel Edwards has moved Louisiana into Phase Three of coronavirus restrictions, raising capacity limits on many businesses to 75% but keeping most bars closed and retaining the statewide mask mandate.

The reaction from the business community has been mixed at best.

On Wednesday, Pierson spoke of the work of the Resilient Louisiana Commission, which he co-chairs with Terrie Sterling, who represents the health care industry. Edwards created the 18-member commission in April with government officials, a union representative, consultants and business leaders from telecommunications, finance, food service and retail.

Fifteen key economic areas have been identified, each with more representatives to focus on goals in each specific area. In all, 300 people, including staff members have been involved in what Pierson called an "amazing journey" made possible by Zoom and virtual meetings.

The goal is to examine Louisiana's economy to look for ways to make it stronger, Pierson said Wednesday.

"What it really means is less vulnerable," he said. "There has been a takedown of our economy by this virus."

If the recovery only brings Louisiana back to where it was, Pierson said, they'll have failed. The idea is to "come back better," he said.

The effort has resulted in a Louisiana Economic Development help desk and technical assistance to Louisiana businesses, Pierson said.

Pierson's day job is leading LED, which he said is working with the Coastal Technical Assistance Center at Nicholls State. The department is trying to link Louisiana businesses with projects funded through the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority with its budget funded at $1 billion annually.

Sealevel Construction of Terrebonne Parish and Rigid Constructors of Lafayette have landed multimillion contracts in connection with one local CPRA-funded project, the Bayou Chene Flood Control Structure now under construction. The barge that will act as the swinging gate to reduce backwater flooding is being constructed in Amelia.

Pierson also noted that both Morgan City and Berwick have recently met the standards for development-ready communities. The program helps develop leadership in economic development in local communities, he said.

Runaway teen found safe

Wed, 09/16/2020 - 6:35pm

From the Morgan City Police Department Facebook page:

The Morgan City Police Department is happy to announce 14-year-old Logan Stevens has been located and is safe. Chief James F. Blair and the Morgan City Police Department would like to thank the following agencies for their help during the investigation.
Berwick Police Department
Patterson Police Department
St. Mary Sheriff's Office
St. Martin Sheriff's Office
Lafayette Sheriff's Office
Louisiana Attorney General's Office

Judge rules against changes in emergency voting plan

Wed, 09/16/2020 - 6:23pm

DAVID JACOBS, The Center Square

A district judge has ordered Louisiana officials to conduct this fall’s elections using the same emergency plan implemented this summer to minimize the risk of voting amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin, who oversees the state’s elections, had proposed a more limited plan for November and December that eliminated absentee options for voters with coronavirus-related health concerns that had been allowed in July and August.

Ardoin’s proposed plan for the fall elections, which a majority of legislators approved but Gov. John Bel Edwards rejected, would have allowed voters who test positive for COVID-19 during and after early voting but before Election Day to vote absentee but added no other emergency absentee ballot provisions.

The plan used this summer added exemptions for being subject to a medically necessary quarantine, experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or awaiting a diagnosis, caring for someone who is quarantined, or having a chronic health condition that imparts a higher risk of serious COVID-19 complications. It also temporarily waived the usual requirement that first-time voters must vote in person.

Three Louisiana voters, the state chapter of the NAACP, and the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice sued state officials, saying the plan forced them to choose between voting and protecting their health and the health of their loved ones. They asked for universal access to absentee voting or, at a minimum, reverting to the summer plan.

Supporters of the more limited plan cited fraud concerns with mail-in ballots. But District Court Judge Shelly Dick says the defendants failed to offer “a scintilla of evidence of fraud associated with voting by mail in Louisiana” or “even a hint of fraud in the July and August primaries.”

Dick also noted that Louisiana lets voters who plan to be outside of their home parish use mail-in ballots “for reasons of mere convenience” without even verifying if that was the case.

“How, then, can the state maintain that it is necessary to disallow any Virus-related excuses to prevent voter fraud?” Dick wrote in her decision. “It cannot.”

She also cited the broader range of excuses allowed in the summer plan as an admission by state officials that COVID-19 presents legitimate health concerns for in-person voting.

“The record in this case demonstrates that, although state officials have attempted to implement precautions to make voting in person safer, even these well-intentioned efforts cannot ameliorate the risk,” she writes. “Masks will be encouraged, but not required; social distancing is aspirational but cannot be assured; and high anticipated voter turnout will produce long lines.”

She also rejected the argument that allowing the COVID-19-related exemptions would create too much of a burden to collect and tabulate the ballots, noting that the coronavirus provisions represented only a small slice of the absentee ballots used in the summer elections.

Dick called for the state to allow 10 days for early voting, as had been proposed in Ardoin’s recent plan. That’s more than the usual seven days but short of the 13 days in the summer plan, which the plaintiffs would have preferred.

Though Edwards, as governor, technically was a defendant in the lawsuit, he had called Ardoin’s plan “woefully inadequate” and his general counsel argued on behalf of the plaintiffs during last week’s hearings.

“Today’s ruling is a huge victory not only for the health and safety of the people of Louisiana, but also for their voting rights and our democracy” Edwards said in a prepared statement. “No one should have to risk their health or their life to vote, and I am relieved that the court agrees.”

Ardoin issued a statement saying he was reviewing Dick’s ruling.

“A decision as to how to proceed will be made after careful consideration of the facts is weighed with the fact that absentee voting currently underway for some voters, and early voting mere weeks away,” he said.