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Second Harvest Food Bank steps up to lend a hand

Wed, 06/10/2020 - 9:55am

By CASEY COLLIER

There was a seemingly perpetual line of cars and trucks outside the Franklin Recreation Center on the afternoon of June 1.
Second Harvest Food Bank food distribution drive in memory of Wanda Hilliard was underway at 2 p.m. that day, and was a success in assisting individuals and families in need.
Hilliard passed away on April 19, survived by four sons, three of which were the originators of the June 1 drive.
In cooperation with Second Harvest Food Bank, Jim Michael Watson, Alfred Jamal Hilliard, and Jared Jerrel Hilliard could be seen loading boxes of groceries into vehicle after vehicle.
Hilliard’s sons said that after their mother’s passing, they came to an understanding about how to keep her legacy alive. This understanding was the impetus for the June 1 drive, and according to the three, that of drives to come, as they said they plan to continue their efforts in the name of their mother.
“My momma was doing this every week, (providing food for the needy),” Alfred Hilliard said, “and when she passed, it stopped for a month, and now, we’re picking up where she left off.”
Dr. Patricia Muse, SHFB, and co-coordinator of the event said, “The thing is, with COVID-19, a lot of people can’t get out. A lot of people don’t have money. So, a lot of communities are feeding people, and we wanted to do the same thing in our community. Wanda’s sons are charged with moving her legacy forward, and that’s what they are doing.”
According to Ed “Tiger” Verdin, director of public relations for the City of Franklin, when the Wanda Watson Hilliard Food Pantry contacts the City of Franklin Mayor’s Office about their next food distribution drive, the City of Franklin Louisiana- Mayor’s Office Facebook page will provide the details.
“Wanda gave back to the community at every light,” Verdin said, “and I think that’s what they (Hilliard’s sons) want the community to know.”
Albert added, “Her slogan was: May no one ever go hungry.”

Area births at Thibodaux Regional

Wed, 06/10/2020 - 9:07am

Born to Skyla Michelle Boudreaux of Morgan City, a boy, Joshua Noe Boudreaux, on May 18 at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 11.85 ounces and measured 20 inches.
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Born to Lashana Lynn Bennett and Don Curtis Williams of Patterson, a girl, K’mani Lynn Williams, on May 19 at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. She weighed 5 pounds, 9.95 ounces and measured 19 inches.
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Born to Mr. and Mrs. Corey A. Rhodes (nee: Malory Darce) of Morgan City, a boy, Alexander Davis Rhodes, on May 21 at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. He weighed 5 pounds, 13 ounces and measured 20½ inches.
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Born to Katherine Rose Braxton and Warkel Ramaine Favors of Berwick, a girl, Shania Star Favors, on May 24 at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. She weighed 6 pounds, 9.2 ounces and measured 19.25 inches.
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Born to Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Joseph Moffett (nee: Brittany Smith) of Morgan City, a girl, Audrey Marie Moffett, on May 26 at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. She weighed 8 pounds, 8.19 ounces and measured 19.5 inches.
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Born to Mr. and Mrs. Cesar Navejar (nee: Magda Selene Medrano) of Morgan City, a boy, Aaron Isaac Navejar, on May 27 at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 2.22 ounces and measured 20.47 inches.
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Born to Hannah Elizabeth Blanchard and Rodney David Dinger Jr. of Patterson, a boy, Hayden Claude Dinger, on May 28 at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. He weighed 9 pounds, 14.59 ounces and measured 21.5 inches.

Unique ways to honor dad for Father’s Day

Wed, 06/10/2020 - 9:05am

Father’s Day is a day many families look forward to. Though its history might not go back as far as many religious or government-designated holidays, Father’s Day is rife with tradition in many households.
Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June in both the United States and Canada and also in the United Kingdom. While Father’s Day might trace its origins to the United States, the holiday is celebrated across the globe, including in Argentina, Greece, India, Singapore and New Zealand.
Fathers often receive gifts from their spouses and children on Father’s Day. What to give the dad who seemingly has it all leaves many people scratching their heads in the weeks preceding Father’s Day. People who find themselves in such situations can think outside the box and look for ways to honor their fathers this year.
The following are some unique ways to honor dad this Father’s Day.
Travel
Dad may be pleasantly surprised by a stroll down memory lane. Plan a day trip or weekend excursion to dad’s hometown (or college town), visiting all his old haunts, including the house he grew up in, and allow him to serve as tour guide.
This can be a great way for dad to share stories and for his family to learn a little more about the old man. Other great places to visit include dad’s college campus or his ancestral homeland.
Highlight reel
Do some covert digging through family photo albums to create a ‘This Is Your Life’ highlight reel for dad.
Go back as far as possible, even looking through dad’s baby photos if you can find them. This might require a collaborative effort, requiring the whole family to work together, but that can make for an enjoyable way for families to spend time together and see how dad became the man he is today.
Present the finished product at a family dinner on Father’s Day.
For a special photo for dads that are also grandfathers, take a picture of the grandchild, then take a picture of the child holding the picture of the grandchild.
Present this picture to dad and Father’s Day and take his picture holding the picture of his child holding the picture of his grandchild for a different kind of multigenerational photo.
Make a list
Another unique way to honor dad is to compile a list of the many ways you are and will always be grateful for having him as a father.
Adults honoring their fathers can cite specific examples they recall from childhood and young adulthood when dad went above and beyond or served as a sounding board or shoulder to cry on. This is a great way to honor dad and let him know all those sacrifices and special moments are still appreciated and will never be forgotten.
Father’s Day, June 21 this year, is a chance to honor dad, and the way you choose to do so can be as unique as the man himself.

Man keeps granddaughter a secret from his ex-wife

Wed, 06/10/2020 - 9:04am

By Jeanne Phillips, ©United Features Syndicate

DEAR ABBY: I divorced my wife 20 years ago, leaving behind two daughters. My older girl was 5 when I left, and due to my ex’s lies, I wasn’t able to see them.
When my older daughter turned 18, she contacted me. She confessed that she had been forced to lie in court, and we reconnected. At 19, she came to me pregnant. She asked if I would take her baby and asked that I tell no one, especially her mother. I agreed.
Last year, my daughter died in a car wreck. My granddaughter will turn 4. Should I go against my daughter’s wishes, tell my ex and risk her taking her? Or should I let things remain as they are? My current wife and I are the only people who know.
SECRET IN VIRGINIA

DEAR SECRET: I urge you to discuss this matter with a lawyer because there may be legal ramifications.
Your former wife has demonstrated she is the kind of person who would force a child to lie in a custody matter. Having done it once, she’s capable of doing something equally underhanded. I am trying hard to come up with a reason why you should go against your daughter’s wishes and disclose this to your ex, and I cannot think of a single one.

DEAR ABBY: I’m concerned about my daughter. She’s 12 and wants to hang out with a 21-year-old male volunteer from her school. His mother works there, and I’ve known their family for a few years, although we’ve never socialized.
Recently, my daughter said she wants to meet him at a park to learn some skateboard moves. She tries to tell me it’s harmless, that he just likes the skateboarding sport, but I am uncomfortable about the age difference and the fact that he works at her school. I don’t know what to do.
What’s your advice in this situation?
STUMPED IN CALIFORNIA

DEAR STUMPED: Although the young man’s motives may be pure, I do not think your daughter should be meeting him at the park without supervision. Accompany her so you can gauge the situation. Because he is volunteering at her school, you should first check to see if that kind of fraternization is allowed because it may not be, and it could cost him his position.

DEAR ABBY: Am I awful because I don’t sympathize when people put their business on the internet? For example, I read some comments on YouTube, and this woman was talking about how “all men cheat.” I told her maybe it’s just all the men she opens her legs to. My account was suspended for a week because of it.
Another time, a man was talking about how none of his many kids talk to him. I asked what he had done to them that none of them speak to him, and he got mad. Abby, I’m not looking for trouble. I feel that if you can’t take someone not kissing up to you, stop putting your business out there.
Am I wrong?
STRAIGHTFORWARD IN THE WEST

DEAR STRAIGHTFORWARD: I think so. When traits were handed out, it appears someone forgot to give you a filter. I agree that some people overshare online and doing it comes with a risk. However, your comments weren’t helpful; in fact, they were cruel. When a bee stings, its prey tries to swat it away, and that’s what’s happening to you.
To avoid trouble, curb your impulse to comment, or be prepared to deal with the consequences that are sure to follow.
***
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.

CARLTON “SPUD-CARL T” JOHNSON

Wed, 06/10/2020 - 8:29am

Carlton “Spud-Carl T” Johnson, 53, a resident of Franklin, La. and native of Bayou Sale, La., passed away peacefully on Tuesday June 9, 2020 at 8:45 a.m. at Franklin Health Care in Franklin, La.
A graveside service will be held on Friday June 12, 2020 at 11 a.m. in the Little Zion Cemetery in Verdunville, La.
Memories of Carlton or “Spud,” as he was known to many, will forever remain in the hearts of his four sisters, Bonita Parker of Centerville, La., Eloise Johnson and Carmela Johnson both of Verdunville, La.; Paula Johnson of New Iberia, La.; four nephews, eight nieces, his grandmother, Bessie Babino and a host of great nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, other relatives and friends,
Carlton was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, one sister, his grandmother, and his aunts and uncles.
The family wishes to give special thanks to Shirlene Brown, the staff and nurses of Legacy Nursing Home of Franklin, La.; Dr. Roland Degeyter and Heart of Hospice, UMC of New Orleans and Tommy LeBlanc.
Jones Funeral Home of Morgan City-Franklin-Jeanerette-Houma in charge of arrangements.
Visit www.jones-funeral-home.com to send condolences to family.

In-person voter registration for July 11 election ends Wednesday

Tue, 06/09/2020 - 4:40pm

Online registration concludes June 20

Staff Report

The last day to register in person or by mail for the July 11 election is Wednesday, while the geauxvote 20-day deadline for electronic online registration is June 20, according to the St. Mary Parish Registrar of Voters.
Wednesday is the 30-day close of books deadline for the election.
Early voting for the July 11 election has been extended to 13 days beginning on June 20 and extending through July 4, excluding June 21 and June 28. Hours for early voting are 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Both offices of the Registrar of Voters will be open for the declared Fourth of July Holiday on July 3 and also on July 4th for early voting. This is part of the Emergency Election Plan passed by the Louisiana Legislature as proposed by the Secretary of State.
On the ballot are the following offices:
—Presidential Nominee, Democratic Party.
—Presidential Nominee, Republican Party.
—Member, Democratic State Central Committee, 50th Rep. Dist. Office “A”
—Member, Democratic State Central Committee, 51st Rep. Dist. Office “B”
Registered Democrats can vote for the Democratic Party Presidential Nominee and Democratic State Central Committee Representative, while registered Republicans can vote for the Republican Party Presidential Nominee.
For more information, call the Registrar of Voters Office at 337-828-4100, ext. 360.

Authorities investigating shooting near Patterson

Tue, 06/09/2020 - 4:03pm

The Daily Review/Bill Decker
Few new details were released Wednesday morning in a shooting that occurred in the 100 block of Lincoln Drive outside the Patterson city limits Tuesday afternoon. St. Mary Parish Sheriff Public Information Officer David Spencer said the victim suffered minor injuries and that he couldn’t release any more information at this time as the department still is working the case. Spencer said more information may be known later Wednesday. Sheriff’s Office personnel were on the scene of the shooting Tuesday around 3:30 p.m. Lincoln Drive is located off La. 182 west of Patterson High.

Voter registration deadline

Tue, 06/09/2020 - 1:29pm

The St. Mary Parish Registrar of Voters announces that the last day to register in person or by mail for the July 11, 2020 election is Wednesday, June 10.
This is the 30 day close of books deadline. The geauxvote, 20 day deadline for electronic online registration is Saturday, June 20.
Early voting for the July 11 election has been extended to 13 days beginning on June 20 and extending through July 4, excluding Sundays June 21 and June 28. Hours for early voting are 8:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Both offices of the Registar of Voters will be open for the declared 4th of July Holiday on July 3 and also on Saturday, July 4th for early voting.
This is part of the Emergency Election Plan passed by the Louisiana Legislature as proposed by the Secretary of State.
On the ballot are the following offices:
—Presidential Nominee, Democratic Party
—Presidential Nominee, Republican Party
—Member, Democratic State Central Committee, 50th Rep. Dist. Office “A”
—Member, Democratic State Central Committee, 51st Rep. Dist. Office “B”
You may call the Registrar of Voters Office at (337)828-4100, ext. 360 for more information.

Local officials feel lucky after Cristobal near miss

Tue, 06/09/2020 - 1:24pm

By GEOFF STOUTE

gstoute@daily-review.com

Tropical Storm Cristobal brought few effects to St. Mary Parish. There were no reports of power outages or damages and only some minimal flooding at Burns Point, parish leaders said.
St. Mary Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness Director David Naquin said dry air from the west side of the storm was helpful for St. Mary Parish in avoiding problems.
Naquin said he wasn’t aware of any power outages, damage or road closures.
“So I would say at the end of the day we were very lucky, and everything worked out as well as it could be expected,” he said.
Naquin said Monday afternoon that Burns Point had some water in its recreation area.
He also said that officials still were monitoring the Atchafalaya River for a possible rise to just over 7 feet. However, according to the National Weather Service’s Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service, the river was at 6.38 feet Tuesday morning and expected to remain fairly steady.
Overall, though, St. Mary Parish avoided much more severe problems like Grand Isle and Biloxi, Mississippi, had.
“Six days out, they said it was going to come to central Louisiana, and they really didn’t miss it by much,” Naquin said.
“Had they missed it that far west, we would have gotten what Biloxi got, which would have been pretty bad for us, and this wasn’t even a hurricane. This was just a tropical storm, so just imagine had they missed the forecast instead of being 50 miles east, suppose it had been 50 miles to the west. We could have been Grand Isle, Biloxi, whatever and gotten all the water and all the rain.”
While the area wasn’t impacted much by the storm, the lingering effects will be headed back through Morgan City via the waterways as Naquin said the storm’s rain is falling in the Mississippi River Basin further north.
“It’s going to wind up in Morgan City anyway,” he said. “It’s coming back down.”
In Berwick, Mayor Duval Arthur said things went “exceptionally well” for the municipality.
While the town has applied for a grant that hasn’t been approved yet for long-term work to fix drainage issues in Country Club Estates, Arthur said that proactive measures such as digging a new ditch and repairing a collapsed pipe served their purpose in the meantime.
“This time, we had no water in the streets, so it was all good,” he said.
Patterson Mayor Rodney Grogan said the city was well-prepared but had no effects from the storm.
“We took every precautionary measure, but we were blessed and spared once again,” he said.
The same can be said for Morgan City, Mayor Frank “Boo” Grizzaffi said.
“It was a nonevent,” he said. “The city was prepared. We’re grateful that it didn’t affect us.”

Cristobal was tougher on La. to the east

Tue, 06/09/2020 - 1:22pm

Staff Report
Louisiana escaped most of the damage predicted as Tropical Storm Cristobal approached, Gov. John Bel Edwards said Monday. But that doesn’t mean the state didn’t sustain damage.
Ten people were rescued from rising water at Fountainbleu State Park by Mandeville fire and rescue workers, Edwards said at his Monday press conference in Baton Rouge. More people were rescued from cabins by park personnel.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers provided five emergency pumps for Grand Isle, raising the total of pumps at work in that community to 26.
One levee in that area was over-topped, and 13 Louisiana roads were closed, Edwards said. Road closing information is available at 511la.orrg.
Edwards said 3,997 Louisiana customers lost power during the tropical storm. Cleco said power to its customers, including 3,500 in St. Tammany Parish, had been restored by Monday afternoon.
Those impacts fell far short of the 10-15 inches of rain and possibly widespread power outages from 50-60 mph wind predicted last week.
The early predictions were for a landfall between Vermilion Bay and the Atchafalaya River. But in the final 48 hours before the late Sunday landfall near Grand Isle, the tropical storm pushed east.
“This storm could have been a whole lot worse,” Edwards said. “I’m thankful for that.
“We were largely spared from the significant impacts that had been forecast.”
Cristobal, which was downgraded to a tropical depression soon after reaching land Sunday, isn’t finished yet.
The storm was expected to push into the upper Midwest and Great Lakes Tuesday, bringing the threat of heavy rain as far north as Wisconsin.
President Donald Trump said Monday he would grant the request from Edwards and Louisiana Sens. Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy for a federal emergency declaration that could make local governments, business and individuals eligible for federal disaster aid.
Also Monday, Edwards said public health officials are investigating possible reasons for an upswing in COVID-19 cases since the the state moved into less restrictive COVID precautions May 15.
An analysis by the Advocate found that cases exceeded the expected numbers by 20% May 29-June 4.
The governor said the state is exploring whether the increase resulted from increased testing, and whether the cases resulted from community spread or hot spots in group settings such as nursing homes.
The Louisiana Office of Public Health reported 330 new cases from noon Sunday to noon Monday for a total of 42,816 cases.
In St. Mary, two new cases raised the total to 339 with 32 deaths.
St. Martin logged one new COVID positive for a total of 286 with 24 deaths.
Three cases raised Assumption’s total to 257 with 13 deaths.