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Sheriff's deputies seize cocaine, weapon in arrests

Mon, 09/08/2025 - 4:27pm
Staff Report

(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.)

St. Mary deputies seized crack cocaine and a firearm in arrests last week.

St. Mary

Sheriff Gary Driskell reported these arrests:

•Chesley Joseph Louis Jr., 59, Baldwin, was arrested at 7:35 p.m. Thursday on charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

•Eric Louis, 48, Patterson, was arrested at 7:35 p.m. Thursday on a warrant alleging turning movements and required signals, brake lights required, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, obstruction of justice (tampering), resisting arrest or officer, transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses and possession of marijuana.

On Thursday, detectives with the Narcotics Section of the SMPSO conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Eric Louis, who held an active warrant. During the stop, it was discovered that the passenger, identified as Chesley Louis, had drugs on his person.

They re transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking.

Bail for Eric Louis was set at $200,000, and bail for Chesley Louis’ charges was set at $103,000.

•De’Andre Youman, 26, Baldwin, was arrested by the Narcotics Section at 10:52 p.m. Sept. 3 on charges of failure to signal 100 feet prior to an intersection, possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under suspension and possession of a machine gun.

Bail was set at $103,000.

•Peter Charles Leblanc, 35, Crowley, was arrested at 1:37 p.m. Sept. 3 on a warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of operating a vehicle not covered by security, operating a vehicle without a driver’s license, failure to secure vehicle registration, and improper use of registration, license plates or license.

Bail was set at $750.

•Porfirio Ordonez Perez, 45, Amelia, was arrested at 11:50 a.m. Sept. 3 on two warrants alleging failure to appear on charges of operating a vehicle while license is suspended, revoked, or canceled; speeding; unlawful possession of fraudulent
documents for identification purposes; failure to obey traffic control devices; operating a vehicle with expired license plate; and operating a vehicle without proof of insurance.

Bail has not been set at this time.

•Rosendo Ponce Mata, 52, Amelia, was arrested at 3:51 p.m. Sept. 3 on three counts of violation of protective orders.

Bail was set at $30,000.

•Michael Paul Delaune, 36, Morgan City, as arrested at 11:07 p.m. Sunday on a warrant alleging unauthorized use of an access card. Bail was set at $5,000.

•Kerry Lee Washington, 64, Patterson, was arrested at 12:18 p.m. Friday on three warrants alleging criminal neglect of family, theft and simple burglary. Bail was set at $8,000

•Hector Eduardo Alvarado-Lopez, 34, Bayou Vista, was arrested at 9:40 p.m. Friday on charges of disturbing the peace (language) and resisting arrest or officer. Alvarado-Lopez was released on a $1,500 bond.

•James Anthony Tarleton Jr., 31, Franklin, was arrested at 5:43 p.m. Saturday on a charge of resisting arrest and on two warrants alleging failure to appear on the charge of criminal neglect of family. Bail was set at $28,083.12.

•Emma Mae Hixon, 38, Patterson, was arrested at 7:06 p.m. Sunday on charges of disturbing the peace (intoxicated), resisting arrest or officer, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bail was set at $6,000.

•Taylon Charles Robicheaux, 17, Franklin, was arrested at 5:19 p.m. Friday on a charge of criminal damage to property and burglary of a movable. Bail was set at $5,000.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported these arrests:

•Cassidy Lynn McDaniel, 31, Catherine Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:17 a.m. Friday as a fugitive from the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office.

•Timothy Wayne Tindell, 51, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 3:16 p.m. Friday on two counts of possession of methamphetamine.

•Trevor Joseph Landry, 25, Paul Street, Pierre Part, was arrested at 7:52 p.m. Friday on charges of driving while intoxicated (first offense) and reckless operation of a motor vehicle. 

•Benito Segura Castro, 47, Bush Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 9:55 p.m. Saturday on charges of driving while intoxicated (first offense), improper lane usage, no driver’s license and possession of an alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle.

•Luong Hein Nguyen, 44, Acadia Park Circle, Katy, Texas, was arrested at 2:07 p.m. Sunday on charges of driving while intoxicated (first offense) and improper lane usage.

•Jacob Ruth, 28, Brule Guillot, Thibodaux, was arrested at 4:17 p.m. Sunday on charges of possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under suspension and improper lane usage. (Released on summons.)

•Melissa Noelle Johnson, 37, McDermott Drive, Morgan City, was arrested at 8:48 p.m. Sunday on charges of resisting an officer.

•Rachel King, 41, Fifth Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:36 p.m. Thursday on a charge of failure to appear for trial (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

•Corey Delatte, 33, Mark Drive, Morgan City, was arrested at 7:03 p.m. Thursday on charges of possession of methamphetamine and failure to appear to pay fine (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

•Denisca Starling, 44, Fifth Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:05 a.m. Thursday on charges of possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer and lights required.

Berwick

Chief David S. Leonard Sr. reported these arrests:

•Devin Derousselle, 32, Henderson, was arrested at 9:41 p.m. Aug. 26 on a Berwick warrant alleging felony theft.

The warrant stems from an incident reported in September 2024, in which a utility trailer was stolen from a local business. Through the course of the investigation, Derouselle was developed as a suspect, and a warrant was subsequently issued for his arrest. On Aug. 26, he was taken into custody by the Berwick Police Department while being held at the Lafayette Parish Jail on the Berwick warrant. He remains incarcerated on a $10,000 bond.

•Kaci Helen Henry, 37, Morgan City, was arrested at 3:12 p.m. Aug. 27 on a Berwick alleging felony theft.

The warrant stems from an investigation initiated Aug. 20, following a complaint from a local business regarding the theft of funds. During the course of the investigation, Henry was identified as a suspect, and a warrant was subsequently issued for her arrest. On Aug. 27, Henry returned to the business, where officers made contact with her and placed her under arrest on the outstanding warrant. She remains incarcerated at this time.

Assumption

Sheriff Leland Falcon reported these arrests:

•Brent Keith Leger, 49, Calhoun Street, Morgan City, was arrested Friday on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, taking contraband into a penal institution, disarming of a police officer (felony crime of violence), resisting an officer with force or violence, battery of a police officer, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and stopping, standing, or parking outside a business or residence.

The charges arise from a traffic incident Friday on Elaine Street in Bayou L’Ourse. A uniformed patrol deputy assigned to the I.C.E. detail observed a vehicle stopped on Elaine Street and obstructing traffic. The deputy made contact with the driver, now identified as Leger, and engaged him in an interview.

At some point, the deputy ordered Leger to exit the vehicle, and he refused to comply. The deputy removed Leger from the vehicle, to which he offered some resistance. Leger struck the deputy as he was being handcuffed and pulled away.

After an extended struggle, the deputy was able to arrest Leger. During a pat-down search of Leger’s person, drug paraphernalia and a quantity of methamphetamine were seized.

During the booking process, it was determined that Leger concealed a quantity of marijuana on his person. The marijuana was seized.

Leger was booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center with bond set at $150,000.

• Victor Hugo Ramirez, 18, Vivian Street, Bayou L’Ourse, was arrested Sunday on felony warrants alleging domestic abuse battery (child endangerment) and simple criminal damage to property valued at $1,000.

Deputies responded to a disturbance call and upon investigation determined that one of the parties present was wanted in Assumption Parish on felony charges related to a domestic incident, which occurred at the same address Aug. 28. Deputies responded to the Aug. 28 incident and made contact with the domestic partner of Ramirez, who indicated that Ramirez had entered a room where she was and began to make accusations against her.

The victim stated Ramirez ripped her phone from her then threw it causing damage to the phone.

Ramirez then allegedly threw items at the victim. At the time of the incident, there were two minor children present.

At the conclusion of the investigation, deputies secured arrest warrants charging Ramirez.

Deputies arrested Ramirez on Sunday evening and booked him into the Assumption Parish Detention Center pending a bond hearing.

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy reported these arrests:

--Darren Darby, 29, Isabella Street, Franklin, was arrested at 5:42 a.m. Sept. 3 on a charge of theft. Darby was booked, processed and released on a $1,500 bond.

--Angie Turner, 38, Plantation Drive, Franklin, was arrested at 6:16 p.m. Sept. 3 on a warrant alleging second-degree battery. Turner was booked, processed and released on an $8,000 bond.

Sheriff: Two vehicles involved in grass fire at Wilson's landing

Mon, 09/08/2025 - 4:20pm

Sheriff Gary Driskell is providing an update following an accidental grass fire initiated by vehicles on Sept. 8:

At approximately 9:40 a.m., a deputy was dispatched to the levee near Wilson’s Landing in the Patterson area in reference to a possible vehicle on fire. Upon arrival, the deputy located a vehicle that was on fire while parked on the levee roadway. The grass in the area was tall enough to come into contact with the vehicle, which may have contributed to the ignition.

While answering the call, the SMPSO unit also caught fire while parked on the levee roadway.

An internal review is underway to assess the incident and determine whether adjustments to departmental protocols are needed, particularly as we near the fall and winter.

"We are grateful for the swift action of our fire department partners, whose quick response prevented a more serious situation," Driskell said. "This serves as a critical reminder of the danger of parking on vegetation. We will be reinforcing proper procedures with our deputies to prevent similar occurrences in the future."

Driskell also advises the public to use caution as we move into the fall and winter seasons, when dormant vegetation increases the risk of grass fires.

Morgan City police radio logs for Sept. 4-8

Mon, 09/08/2025 - 12:07pm

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.
Thursday, Sept. 4
6:55 a.m. 2400 block of Cypress Street; Animal complaint.
9:38 a.m. 700 block of Belanger Street; Animal complaint.
10:09 a.m. 1500 block of Ellzey Street; Medical.
10:19 a.m. 2400 block of Apple Street; Lost & found.
10:30 a.m. 2400 block of Apple Street; Warrant.
11:23 a.m. Kidd/Second streets; Stalled vehicle.
11:59 a.m. 900 block of Short Street; Complaint.
12:08 p.m. 1000 block of Brashear Avenue; Complaint.
12:20 p.m. 2400 block of Apple Street; 911 hang up.
12:31 p.m. U.S. 90 East; Complaint.
1:24 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
1:36 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Arrest.
1:57 p.m. 7300 block of La. 182; Complaint.
2:24 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Lost & found.
2:38 p.m. 600 block of Bush Street; Animal complaint.
3:43 p.m. Second/St. Claire streets; Traffic incident.
5:07 p.m. Filmore/Amber streets; Suspicious vehicle.
5:22 p.m. 100 block of South Railroad Avenue; Complaint.
6:57 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Complaint.
7:26 p.m. 500 block of Brashear Avenue; Complaint.
7:30 p.m. 200 block of Brashear Avenue; Medical.
8:08 p.m. 800 block of Ninth Street; Hit & run.
8:56 p.m. 200 block of Onstead Street; Complaint.
9:22 p.m. 1000 block of Third Street; Complaint.
9:23 p.m. 200 block of Louisa Street; Complaint.
9:37 p.m. 7500 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
9:39 p.m. 500 block of Aucoin Street; Complaint.
10:16 p.m. 700 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Complaint
10:30 p.m. 1600 block of Mayon Street; Disturbance.
11 p.m. 300 block of Franklin Street; Medical.
11:40 p.m. 500 block of Brashear Avenue; Complaint
11:55 p.m. Chennault/Grizzaffi streets; Suspicious person/vehicle.
Friday, Sept. 5
12:07 a.m. U.S. 90; Stalled vehicle.
8:52 a.m. 900 block of Front Street; Complaint.
9:16 a.m. 1000 block of Garden Street; Complaint.
9:41 a.m. Duke Street/Federal Avenue; Warrant.
10:22 a.m. 1000 block of Chestnut Drive; Complaint.
12:09 p.m. 500 block of Roderick Street; Subject removal.
12:30 p.m. 200 block of Patton Street; Animal complaint.
12:35 p.m. Filmore/Amber streets; Removal of subject.
1:08 p.m. Greenwood/Florida streets; Lost & found.
2:50 p.m. 7000 block of La. 182; Complaint.
3:21 p.m. 1000 block of David Drive; Assistance.
4:26 p.m. 1000 block of Second Street; Complaint.
4:33 p.m. 7000 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
6:02 p.m. 500 block of Railroad Avenue; Welfare check.
6:51 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Arrest.
7:55 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
8:09 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
8:20 p.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Complaint.
8:46 p.m. 7500 block of La. 182; Suspicious person/vehicle.
9:04 p.m. 600 block of Egle Street; Loud music.
Saturday, Sept. 6
12:33 a.m. 200 block of Brashear Avenue; Medical.
1:02 a.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Assistance.
6:33 a.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Welfare concern.
7:03 a.m. 1000 block of Second Street; Theft.
7:12 a.m. 500 block of Railroad Avenue; Medical.
9:04 a.m. 3000 block of Allison Street; Medical.
12:04 p.m. Terrebonne Street; Traffic incident.
12:29 p.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Medical.
12:48 p.m. 1000 block of Second Street; Medical.
1:48 p.m. 300 block of Duke Street; Complaint.
3:10 p.m. 1000 block of Victor II Boulevard; Disturbance.
3:55 p.m. 3000 block of Karen Drive; Assistance.
5:39 p.m. 1000 block of Ditch Avenue; Remove subject.
Sunday, Sept. 7
7:26 a.m. 1000 block of Federal Avenue; Alarm.
7:40 a.m. 400 block of Lawrence Street; Complaint.
12:02 p.m. 1000 block of Marguerite Street; Fire.
1:13 p.m. Florida/Greenwood streets; Welfare concern.
1:50 p.m. 1000 block of Second Street; Medical.
2:14 p.m. 600 block of Fourth Street; Missing person.
2:44 p.m. 900 block of Cherry Street; Remove subject.
2:53 p.m. 300 block of Mallard Street; Disturbance.
4:56 p.m. 700 block of Terrebonne Street; Medical.
4:59 p.m. 700 block of David Drive; Medical.
5:58 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
8:06 p.m. 7300 block of La. 182; Suspicious person/vehicle.
8:29 p.m. Allison/Roderick streets; Suspicious person/vehicle.
8:32 p.m. 500 block of Roderick Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
10:24 p.m. Federal/Railroad avenues; Suspicious person/vehicle.
10:44 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Suspicious person/vehicle.
10:55 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Suspicious person/vehicle.
11 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Medical.
11:58 p.m. Ditch Avenue/La. 182; Suspicious person/vehicle.
Monday, Sept. 8
2:23 a.m. 1000 block of Marguerite Street; Alarm.
4:09 a.m. 1000 block of Federal Avenue; 911 hang up.
4:18 p.m. Onstead/Sixth streets; Suspicious person/vehicle.

Artificial reef completed south of Morgan City

Mon, 09/08/2025 - 11:37am

The Coastal Conservation Association of Louisiana has successfully installed the Ship Shoal 33 Artificial Reef, located south of Morgan City, adding nearly 8,000 square feet of new marine habitat through its artificial reef program in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
his CCA-led project was made possible through collaborative partnerships with Chevron, Natrx, Danos, White Water Contractors and Duplantis Design Group.

"The Ship Shoal 33 reef project demonstrates the power of partnership in creating meaningful environmental and community benefits," said Jeremy Haken, senior manager, corporate affairs at Chevron. "We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside CCA to help protect Louisiana’s coast, enhance marine habitat, and sustain the fisheries and livelihoods that make our state unique."

For this installation, CCA Louisiana deployed 400 of Natrx's Wave Brush ExoForms, known locally as "Cajun Coral," to maximize habitat creation, along with 380 tons of broken concrete. The proprietary structures are designed specifically to promote diverse aquatic habitat for local marine species and were manufactured at Danos’ facility in Amelia through their partnership with Natrx.

"Our objective at CCA is to conserve, promote and enhance the present and future availability of our coastal resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the general public. Artificial reef projects, like this one at Ship Shoal 33, serve as great examples of our collaborative efforts," said Rad Trascher, Executive Director and CEO of CCA Louisiana. "Working with great partners such as LDWF, Chevron, Danos and Natrx allow us to reach that objective."

"As a Louisiana-founded company, it's always an honor to be a part of the efforts restoring the marine ecosystems that sustain and benefit so many across our state," said Leonard Nelson, CEO of Natrx. "This is the work that is essential to Natrx's mission, and to the long-term resilience of our communities and coasts. We're thrilled to continue our relationship with CCA to deliver solutions for our environment and all those who depend on it."

"Danos is proud to stand alongside our partners at CCA and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to improve the resiliency of Louisiana’s coast," said Eric Danos, CEO of Danos Ventures. "The expansion of this artificial reef will provide many benefits, and we’re excited to continue advancing innovative solutions that protect our environment and sustain the livelihoods and cultures that make Louisiana unique."
White Water Contractors provided additional barges, tugs and excavators during the CCA-managed installation, while Duplantis Design Group performed pre-and-post construction surveys for the site.

"Through the SS-33 reef project, White Water proudly reaffirms its commitment to conservation and to strengthening recreational fishing opportunities across our home state," said Scott Settoon, founder of White Water Contractors. "We extend our sincere appreciation to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and CCA Louisiana for the opportunity to contribute to an initiative that will provide long-lasting benefits to anglers and the preservation of our coastal habitat."

West Georgia overwhelms Nicholls, 34-10

Mon, 09/08/2025 - 11:20am
Nicholls State Sports Information

After two strong showings in the opening weeks, the No. 22/25 Nicholls State University football team struggled on both sides of the ball against West Georgia as the Colonels fell 34-10 Saturday night on Manning Field at John L. Guidry Stadium.

Nicholls (1-2) caused three turnovers in the opening half but could only produce three points, resulting in a 14-3 deficit at the break. West Georgia extended its advantage to 34-3 early in the fourth before Jackson Dufrene hauled in a 44-yard touchdown catch to make the final.

The Colonels allowed 342 yards rushing as West Georgia's Latrelle Murrell (170 yards) and quarterback Davin Wydner (103) each eclipsed the 100-yard mark. The rushing total was the most allowed by the Nicholls defense since the 2021 opener at Memphis.

Nicholls limited Wydner to 7 of 21 passing with two interceptions and just 63 yards, but two of his completions went for touchdowns. The first pick was courtesy of Aidan McCowan while Ethan Lee notched his second interception in as many home games.

The Wolves' defense held Nicholls to 180 total yards with 66 yards rushing. Deuce Hogan went 11 of 25 for 114 yards and a touchdown but also had an interception. Miequle Brock Jr. finished with 61 yards on 11 carries.

McCowan ended UWG's opening drive with his first pick as a Colonel and returned it 27 yards to the Wolves' 33. But a fourth-down incompletion gave the ball back to West Georgia and they answered with an 18-yard touchdown catch by Owen Dupree.

The Colonels responded with a 43-yard field goal by Gabriel Showalter early in the second quarter. Nicholls then got two of its turnovers before the break with Lee's pick and a Laurence Sullivan Jr. forced fumble. However, West Georgia pieced together a scoring drive with 50 seconds remaining and took a 14-3 advantage into the half after Wydner's second TD pass.

In the third quarter, UWG added a field goal and then after Hogan's interception, TJ Lester scored his first of two touchdowns. His second came early in the fourth and the Wolves tacked on one more field goal for their final points.

On the next possession, Dufrene caught a jump ball and notched his second career TD grab.

The Wolves outgain Nicholls, 405-180 in total yards and third-down conversions played a big part. The visitors were 12 of 18 on third downs while Nicholls finished 2 of 13.

Hayden Shaheen recorded double digits tackles for the second straight game, tallying a team-high 12, and Alex Villavaso had 10 with 2.0 tackles for loss.

Freshman Pharrell Harewood punted eight times and had a season-long 65-yard punt.

The Colonels will have a bye before heading to Texas State on Sept. 20.

Wheel House for Sept. 5

Sat, 09/06/2025 - 6:00am

HUGE
RUMMAGE SALE
1-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, and 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sept. 6, First United Methodist Church, 109 Gilmore Drive, Berwick. Abundances of clothes, household items, miscellaneous.

PATRIOT
DAY
To honor all first responders will be noon-2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, at
Twin City Funeral Home, 412 Fourth St., Morgan City. First responders are invited for barbecue, pastalaya, desserts and a raffle.

Engurait becomes Houma-Thibodaux bishop

Fri, 09/05/2025 - 4:13pm

The Rev Simon Peter Ungurait was ordained and installed Friday as the sixth bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Ungurait, 54, a native of Uganda, succeeds Mario Dorsonville, who died in January 2024 after only 10 months as the Houma-Thibodaux bishop.

The consecrants at Friday's ceremony at Nicholls State's Stopher Gymnasium were New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond and two bishops emeritus: Sam Jacobs of Houma-Thibodaux and Michael Jarrell of Lafayette, who had also serve as Houma-Thibodaux's bishop.

Ungurait received the symbols of office: the ring, "a sign and seal of fidelity"; the staff-like crozier to "keep watch over the whole flock"; and the tall mitre placed on his head so that on Jesus' return "you may merit to receive an unfading crown of thorns."

Ungurait quoted Paul: "'I do not deserve to be an apostle. But by the grace of God that is what I am.'"

He said his appointment as bishop came not because of worthiness, but through mercy.

"And yet with that mercy comes an awesome, yes, even frightening responsibility," Engurait said, " a responsibility to shepherd God's people, to guard and defend the faith, to account not only for my soul, but the souls of those entrusted to my care today"

Jacobs invited Engurait to Louisiana during a 2007 trip to a charismatic revival in Uganda.

Engurait already had degrees in business administration and political science when he earned a master of divinity at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans in 2013.

Ordained by Jacobs that year, Engurait served in church posts in the Houma-Thibodaux Diocese before being named moderator of the curia in 2016 and vicar general in 2017. Following Dorsonville's death, Engurait served as diocesan administrator.

In June 2025, a month after Engurait celebrated the Mass during Central Catholic High's commencement in Morgan City, Pope Leo XIV announced his appointment as bishop.

Among those who attended Friday's ceremony was the Rev. Christoph Pierre, the papal nuncio who serves as the Vatican's ambassador to the United States.

Engurait's mother and five of his 13 siblings came from Uganda for the ceremony, as did his parish priest in his home country.

Central Catholic rushes past White Castle

Fri, 09/05/2025 - 1:52pm

Xailen Hebert and Dominic Lipari, who had only 14 rushes between them, each scored two touchdowns Thursday to lead Central Catholic over White Castle 35-0.

The season opener in Morgan City was all about the ground game for Central Catholic.

Hebert attempted only four passes, completing two for 31 yards with an interception. One of the completions was a 21-yarder to James Sanders. Parker Gros had the other reception for 10 yards.

On the rushing side, lots of Eagles played a role, combining big plays with hard yards.

Hayden Walker led the way with 88 yards on 10 carries, including a 60-yard gain.

Hebert finished with 26 yards on eight carries, including one rush for 19 yards and the two TDs. Lipari rushed six times for 50 yards, including a 42-yard run and his two scores.

The fifth Eagle touchdown belonged to Gros, who ran seven times for 47 yards.

Landon Ramagos rushed twice for 14 yards, and Sanders ran four times for 16 yards.

In all, Central Catholic put up 241 rushing yards, an average of 6.5 yards on each of 37 carries.

Central Catholic, 1-0, will host Catholic-New Iberia next Friday. White Castle will be at Liberty.

In this week's Friday games, Berwick will be at Morgan City High, and Patterson will be at Jeanerette.

Franklin will host Lafayette High, Centerville is at Delcambre, Berchman's Academy is at West St. Mary, and Hanson is at St. John.

Jeremy Alford and David Jacobs: Lieutenant governor aims to repair Canadian relations

Fri, 09/05/2025 - 6:00am
JEREMY ALFORD AND DAVID JACOBS

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser’s namesake father was a major figure in the Louisiana Republican Party back when Democrats still dominated the state, serving as Gov. Dave Treen’s chief of staff and chairing the party from 1988-1992. 
The younger Nungesser ran for state rep in 1983, finishing third in the jungle primary behind two Democrats, including eventual winner Francis Heitmeier. 
“I swore I’d never run again,” Nungesser recalled. 
But after Hurricane Katrina, he ran for the open parish president position in Plaquemines Parish, edging out Democrat Amos Cormier Jr. with 51% of the vote. After reelection and hitting his two-term limit, he came up short against incumbent Jay Dardenne in his first race for lieutenant governor, but won on his second try in 2015 and has not been seriously challenged since. 
Tourism is his office’s main responsibility, and he has planned a trip to Canada later this year to promote the state. Our northern neighbor is Louisiana tourism’s biggest international market, but tariffs and President Donald Trump’s disrespect have caused fewer Canadians to visit. 
“They’re pretty upset about the president saying he wants to make it the 51st state,” Nungesser said. “It’s a market we desperately need to bring back.” 
But at the same time, “we believe they still love Louisiana,” he said. And as other states cut back their promotion budgets in Canada following the “51st state” fallout, now could be a good time for state and local officials to visit with Canadian tour operators and get people excited about booking trips to Louisiana again. 
Before the pandemic, Louisiana had five record-breaking years for tourism, Nungesser said. With about 44 million visitors last year, tourism slipped from fourth to fifth on the list of the state’s biggest industries, he said, adding that he was hopeful for a big 2025 following the Super Bowl and a successful Mardi Gras. 
“We’ve got a little bit of work to do on that international market,” Nungesser said, adding that Brazil could be a focus for next year. 
He said he generally supports the president, though he wishes the administration would ramp up tariffs gradually so domestic businesses have time to adjust. And he would like to see a path to citizenship for residents who are here illegally, but are otherwise law-abiding and willing to pay back taxes. 
Following the recent scare involving possibly radioactive shrimp from Indonesia, Nungesser has been making the media rounds to renew his call to impose a 10 cents per pound fee on imported seafood to fund hiring more inspectors. Less than 5% of imported seafood currently is inspected, and he would like to see that proportion rise to 50% or more. 
“I’m hoping that we can get our congressmen, [Majority Leader] Steve Scalise and [Speaker] Mike Johnson, to introduce it,” he said. “And then I can get [other] lieutenant governors to get their congressmen and senators to co-author the bill.” 
As for internal Louisiana politics, Nungesser said it’s too soon to say whether he will back anyone in the competitive Republican primary field for Senate. But he is adamant that the state shouldn’t be holding party primaries, which pushes candidates to cater to the most extreme elements of their parties, he argues.
He hopes Louisiana goes back to the open-primary system in the near future. 
“Maybe we could get a legislator brave enough to introduce this next year: Why don’t we let the people of Louisiana decide?” he said. “Why don’t we put it to a vote?”
Nungesser also plans to try again with his effort to rearrange governance for the state’s museum system, which he argues is in decline. Currently, oversight is split between his office and the secretary of state, and his proposal has put him in conflict with Secretary of State Nancy Landry. (Read more about that in LaPolitics.)
As part of his office’s anti-littering efforts, he supported legislation this year to ban releasing balloons outdoors. Gov. Jeff Landry vetoed the bill, arguing in part that it would be difficult to enforce, though Nungesser would like to bring the proposal back next year. 
“We pass a lot of laws that are very tough to enforce,” Nungesser said. “I think if it’s a law that you can’t release balloons, most people will follow the law.” 
He also is seeking public-private partnerships to build an “environmentally friendly” resort conference center next to Fontainebleau State Park in Mandeville. The idea attracted staunch opposition when he floated it back in 2020, which he blames on the misconception that a casino would be part of the project. 
He said a comparable facility in Alabama pays expenses for all the state’s parks, and argues his proposal could do the same in Louisiana, where an infusion of new revenue would be extremely helpful.
“They took 10 million out of my operating budget this year,” he said.
New Orleans is the state’s biggest tourism draw, and Nungesser has not been shy about criticizing local officials. He argues that Mayor LaToya Cantrell should step down as she fights corruption charges reduce the negative attention on the city. 
“Step aside so we can focus on fixing this city with whoever the new mayor is coming in, and take the negative light off New Orleans and the state of Louisiana,” he said. 
Nungesser himself has been accused of corruption over the years, including FBI probes of his office as parish president and lieutenant governor, which he has blamed on political rivals. 
“The FBI never tells you ‘we’re finished with the investigation,’” he said, when asked if the most recent inquiry has been put to bed. He added that he “made my money in the oil field” and didn’t get into politics to line his own pockets. 
“Anytime anybody wants to report me for anything, I open my books to anybody, because I don’t do anything wrong,” he said. 
Nungesser said he’s currently planning to run for reelection. He flirted with a run for governor in 2023, and when asked if he might seek that office after Gov. Landry’s theoretical second term, he said he isn’t planning on it. “I’d be 70-something years old,” he said. “You know, you never want to say never.”
For more Louisiana political news, visit www. LaPolitics.com or follow Alford on X @ LaPoliticsNow.

John K. Flores: Flamingos make rare Louisiana appearance

Fri, 09/05/2025 - 6:00am
JOHN K. FLORES

No matter what part of the United States you’re from or live in, most people can readily identify flamingos. This iconic tropical bird is made up of six subspecies and has an estimated worldwide population of roughly 2 million.
The American or Caribbean flamingo subspecies can be found on all of the Caribbean Islands, Caribbean Mexico (Yucatan Peninsula), Belize, coastal Colombia, northern Brazil, Venezuela, the Galapagos Islands, and southern Florida.
Where they’re not found, with the exception of “very rare” occasions, is Louisiana. If it wasn’t for the New Orleans Audubon Zoo, I’d have never seen one live before.
Recently, during an August fishing trip out of Cocodrie with Top Water Charters, my boat captain John Pellegrin asked me if I heard about the flamingos on Raccoon Island.
“There’s 13 of them out there,” he said. “I can take you to see them if you want to.”
Myself, son-in-law, a friend of his, and my grandson, had just put a smack down on speckled trout. It was only 9:30 a.m. and the water was like glass. What’s more, we had to run right past Raccoon Island anyway.
“Sure,” I said, and off we went.
In George H. Lowery Junior’s book, Louisiana Birds Third Edition, he says flamingos are very rare or irregular in Louisiana. He mentions how the occasional stray or individual could wander northward from perhaps the Yucatan Peninsula or possibly even be driven by hurricanes that sweep from that direction.
Delaina LeBlanc, Biological Resources Coordinator for Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program, said, “We can’t be certain when or why this current group of flamingos arrived in Louisiana. The first I heard of them — originally reported as 13 birds at Raccoon Island — was at the State of the Coast Conference on May 22, when a colleague shared a photo that was taken that morning.”
“While there are earlier records of flamingo sightings,” LeBlanc continued, “this is the largest number observed at one time.”
Raccoon Island is part of the Isle Dernieres Barrier Islands south of Cocodrie. Besides Raccoon, the barrier islands are made of Wine, Trinity/East, and Whiskey Islands. This Island chain provides important protection from erosion and hurricane damage to the mainland north of the Islands.
Raccoon Island is one of the most important waterbird nesting areas along the Gulf Coast. The island chain also was part of the important Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries relocation project that helped restore Brown Pelican populations to the coastline.
Barrier island chains are also important for all species of shore birds of which many like black skimmers, red knots, and Wilson’s plovers are of conservation concern. All of these birds can nest on these barrier islands without mammalian predators such as coyotes, skunks, raccoons, and foxes disturbing them.
In his book, Lowery describes flamingos as both heron-like and swan-like, but also resembling ibis. Flamingos have filter-feeding beaks that strain tiny plants, animals, and seeds when feeding. By description, their feet are also webbed with an elevated hind toe.
Flamingos get their name from the Portuguese/Spanish word for flame-colored. What’s more, they seem to be enjoying their spring and summer and are in no hurry to leave as fall approaches.
LeBlanc said, “Flamingos typically inhabit coastal lagoons and estuaries. They feed on aquatic invertebrates such as crustaceans, which contain carotenoids — pigments responsible for the bird’s pink coloration.”
How long will the flamingos stick around is anyone’s guess. There is no recorded nesting of this species in Louisiana.
LeBlanc said, “While flamingos construct distinctive mud nests shaped like truncated cones with shallow bowls, there have been no documented cases of breeding in Louisiana. Elsewhere, nesting has been recorded from March through August.”
Flamingos seem to be well suited physically for our barrier islands. They range from 3.3 to 4.6 feet in height and have a wingspan that ranges from 3.3 to 5.6 feet. From my short observation they seem to get along well with the pelicans, gulls, plovers, terns, and skimmers scattered everywhere along the bank of the Island.
The barrier islands are a beautiful paradise along our coast teeming with shorebirds.
For now, the colorful Flamingos are a unique species hanging out along the barrier islands south of Cocodrie. We might as well enjoy them while they’re here.
John K. Flores is the Morgan City Review’s outdoor writer. He can be contacted at gowiththeflo@cox.net.

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