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Dear Abby: Partner's unhealthy lifestyle needs adjustment

DEAR ABBY: I’m in a long-term relationship with an incredible guy I’ll call “Jerry.” We both have grown children, his parents and family are amazing, and we all get along wonderfully.
Jerry works hard as a health-care professional. I work as well, but he supports us financially, for which I am grateful.
He has an autoimmune disorder and, unfortunately, other health issues because, over the decades, he didn’t take care of himself. I make healthy meals, walk at least 10 miles a week and try very hard not to spend too much time on the sofa.
My problem is: I’m in my mid-50s, energetic and living with someone who is my complete opposite in that way. I go out alone and with my family and friends to remain active, but I need Jerry to get off the couch and do things other than go out for meals. I have gently spoken about this with him many times. Should I just keep the status quo? I love him and would like to keep this relationship going.
HELPLESS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

DEAR HELPLESS: I suggest a two-pronged approach. The first prong would be to find out what Jerry’s doctor has to say about his sedentary lifestyle, so perhaps another medical professional can help you galvanize Jerry to become more active. The second prong would be to make sure some walking is involved either before or after the two of you go out for a meal. It may take some strategy on your part, but it would be worth a try.

DEAR ABBY: We were playing cards at my house on a Friday night. On the way to making a point, I mentioned in passing my status as “the man of the house.”
My visiting sister-in-law interrupted and informed me that it is 2025 and I may NOT be a “man of the house.” I told her I most certainly AM the man of my house, just as my wife is the woman of the house, and she (my SIL) was out of line trying to dictate what I may and may not call myself under my own roof. She then excused her hateful comment by passing it off as a “joke,” which was totally unacceptable.
A huge row ensued, and anti-male hate speech spewed from my SIL’s mouth.
She spent the next eight minutes telling me what an awful person I am and made clear that because she has done favors for my wife and me, it justifies her use of sexist hate speech.
I told her to leave, which she did the following morning, lamely excusing her behavior by saying “she meant no malice.” What does Dear Abby think of this mess?
MAN OF THE HOUSE IN MICHIGAN

DEAR MAN: It appears your sister-in-law touched a nerve when she made that comment, and you overreacted. What I think of this mess is that you both owe each other an apology, and if alcohol played ANY part in what happened, you should both abstain while playing cards in the future.
***
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.

How much would you pay for a perfect night's sleep?

What’s a good night’s sleep worth?
That question was the method by which SleepJunkie, a web resource for sleep advice, gauged the state of our nightly rest.
In a survey of 3,019 people, respondents were asked how much they’d pay for a perfect night’s sleep.
The results read like a state bidding war for rest.
Top five Louisiana parishes willing to pay for sleep:
1. Plaquemines, $123.1872
2. St. Tammany, $119.7568
3. Cameron, $118.44.
4. Ascension, $116.6848
5. Livingston, $114.944
Bottom five Louisiana parishes:
1. East Carroll, $97.024
2. Webster, $98.304
3. Claiborne, $99.5328
4. Madison , $100.0448
5.Washington, $101.4016
From new moms to overworked professionals and those facing financial strain, millions of Americans are running on empty. They crave more sleep, but for one reason or another, just can’t seem to get enough of it.
In a culture where productivity often overshadows rest, many find it difficult to prioritize sleep.
The question isn’t just who is tired.
It’s how much they’d be willing to invest for one night of perfect rest.
But beyond the dollar figures, the survey revealed just how deep the sleep crisis runs - and who’s suffering most.
Overall, Louisiana residents say they are willing to pay $109.90 on average for a perfect night’s sleep.
Wake-Up Call:
The State of
Louisiana  Sleep
Most respondents admitted they rarely wake up feeling fully rested, averaging just three nights a week where they feel truly refreshed.
So what’s keeping everyone up?
•Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression top the list, affecting 22% of respondents.
•Physical discomfort keeps 19% tossing and turning.
•Late-night screen time ties with financial anxiety at 15% each.
•Work stress affects 12%, while noise or light and kids trail behind at 10% and 7%, respectively.
And while sleep is free, it turns out people are willing to sacrifice quite a bit for better rest.
Would you take a 5% pay cut for perfect sleep every night for a year? 
Fifty-three percent said yes.
Would you trade your next vacation for a week of uninterrupted sleep?
Almost half (46%) said that they would.
And nearly half of respondents say they’ve cried from sheer exhaustion, and 23% admit they can’t even remember the last time they felt fully rested for three days in a row.
When asked which health pillar matters more — sleep, diet, or exercise — 63% chose sleep.
Who’s Dreaming
of Sleep the Most?
•New moms, 25%.
•People with mental health struggles, 22%.
•Older adults with insomnia , 13%.
•Burnt-out executives, 10%.
•Financially stressed people, 11%.
•Shift workers, 11%.
•Teachers and caregivers, 7%.
“Sleep has become a luxury item, and for millions, it’s one they can’t afford to lose,” says Kristina Hindes at SleepJunkie.
“Whether it’s due to mental health struggles, money stress, or modern distractions, this data highlights a clear need to prioritize rest as a pillar of health. Because when we sleep better, we live better.”
 

Jeremy Alford and David Jacobs: 'No party' voters add wrinkle to new party primaries

By JEREMY ALFORD and DAVID JACOBS
The number of voters nationwide who don’t want to join either major party is growing, and Louisiana is no exception to the trend. 
Such voters will still be able to vote in next year’s newly established party primaries, and how they influence those elections will be one of the more interesting political stories to follow next year.
In the meantime, local election officials are adjusting to a world where party registration matters more than it used to in the Bayou State. 
At times in recent years, “other” has been the fastest-growing category of voters in Louisiana, though the overall trendline favors the GOP. The Republican ranks have grown by 8% since August 2020, while Democrats lost more than 12% and the number of other voters increased by 5.6%. 
Republicans are on pace to exceed the Democrats’ registration total, but they aren’t quite there yet. Louisiana is home to about 1.09 million Democrats, though many are older voters who mostly vote Republican these days, while the GOP has a little less than 1.05 million. 
Louisiana also boasts more than 800,000 “no party” voters. That total just jumped by about 150,000, as lawmakers dissolved the Independent Party and shifted its members to the ranks of the unaffiliated. 
Overall, voters who do not identify with one of the major parties show up to the polls less frequently. In November, turnout was about 78% for Republicans, 64% for Democrats and 55% for everyone else, according to the Secretary of State’s office. 
However, Independents (with a capital “I”) have turned out at a higher rate than unaffiliated voters, pollster John Couvillon said. That higher level of engagement could make them an important voting block within the “no party” population; remember, unaffiliated voters will be able to vote in Democrat or Republican primaries, though not both. 
“You’re talking about the very real potential to dilute the Republican Party primary electorate a little bit,” Couvillon said.
Still, such voters in Louisiana outside of Orleans Parish mostly lean to the right, he added. And the Republican primaries for Congress in the spring, which will feature U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy’s high-profile and hotly contested reelection bid, will be the hottest ticket. 
“I would fully expect two-thirds to three-fourths of these unaffiliated-slash-independent voters picking a Republican primary ballot as opposed to a Democratic primary ballot,” Couvillon said.
Bill Bryan, the Independent Party’s former executive director and a founding member, agrees that members are politically engaged, though he said most lean to the left. While he doesn’t expect many are interested in joining another party, he thinks many will participate in party primaries.
“I would think that this would be a group of voters that [candidates] could specifically target and try to attract, and I think that they would be amenable to listening,” he said. 
The shift to party primaries is likely to nudge many of those long term nominal Democrats to finally change their registrations, though so far officials are not getting a flood of inquiries about changing parties. Steve Rayborn, registrar in East Baton Rouge Parish and president of the Louisiana Registrars of Voters Association, predicted an increase in registration switching as more voters learn about the new system, noting that Secretary of State Nancy Landry is rolling out a public education program. 
Louisiana already uses party primaries for the presidential preference primaries, and there are always people who show up and realize they can’t vote in the primary that they expected to vote in, Rayborn said. 
“I think there will be people that will be surprised when they get to the polls in April that they can’t vote for the party they want to,” he said. 
Brian Champagne, registrar in St. Bernard Parish and secretary-treasurer with the state association, predicts the public won’t really start paying attention until next year, as campaigns begin to heat up. The party choices people make from that point likely will be driven by the candidates they want to support, he said. 
“Why change party right now?” he said. “You’re not going to know who’s on the ballot, and you’ve got plenty of time to make a decision.” 
Lafayette Parish Clerk of Court Louis Perret said he’s been “in a full-blown sprint” preparing for the new system. 
“I hope and pray that I’m wrong, but I expect a disaster with the closed primaries,” he said.  
His parish has more unaffiliated voters than Democrats, Perret said. When one of those no party voters shows up to a party primary, they’ll be asked to step aside and fill out the necessary paperwork to declare which party they’re choosing before getting a ballot, which will create delays.
Also, Perret said he is certain people will be upset when they try to vote for a Republican but the machine won’t tally their vote because they are registered as a Democrat, or vice versa. 
“I absolutely, positively guarantee you that people will be screaming corruption,” he said. 
Louisiana adopted party primaries for congressional races only in 2008 and 2010, but lawmakers abandoned them, at least in part because of voter confusion. The new system applies to Congress, the Public Service Commission, the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Louisiana Supreme Court. Other offices still will use the open, nonpartisan primary. 
Brent Littlefield, a longtime political advisor to Gov. Jeff Landry who helped craft the governor’s proposal to move to closed primaries, noted that Louisiana has consistently used them in presidential elections. 
“Officials are always fearful of election changes if they personally were not elected under the new system,” he said. “If a closed primary system was that disastrous, all the states around the nation that mainly use closed primaries would not be using them.”
Vernon Parish Clerk of Court Jeff Skidmore, who is president of the state Clerks of Court Association, said some confusion in the precincts may be inevitable, but clerks are working hard to mitigate any issues. As Secretary of State Landry works from now until April to help voters understand the new system, Skidmore and his colleagues plan to help spread the word in their areas, he said. 
The clerks also will have to prepare their election commissioners who are on the front lines. 
“Commissioners are hard to come by these days,” Skidmore said “They’re older citizens. They don’t like change very much.” 
But Skidmore also stressed that election officials have been given their marching orders by the Legislature, and now it’s time to carry them out. 
“There’s no such thing as the perfect election,” he added. “You can only hope to have really, really good ones. And we have really, really good ones.”
For more Louisiana political news, visit www. LaPolitics.com or follow Alford on X @ LaPoliticsNow.

Report: Tax changes will help most, but may hurt the poorest

A new report from the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana says the state’s big tax changes, passed in late 2024, will leave most households paying less in state taxes. But some of the poorest may end up paying more.
The study, prepared by economist Greg Albrecht, looked at how the new system affects different income groups. It found that income tax cuts generally outweigh sales tax hikes, but the balance depends on how much people earn and spend.
For income taxes, Louisiana now has a single 3% tax rate and a much larger standard deduction ($12,500 for singles, $25,000 for couples). At the same time, smaller deductions were eliminated. Overall, nearly everyone will owe less in income tax.
“With regard to the changes in the personal income tax, the average filer in each income cohort experiences a material reduction in tax liability,” the report says. “Percentage reductions are larger for lower income filers than for higher income filers due largely to the increase in the standard deduction, which effectively eliminates taxation of much of the income of these filers, even with the elimination of the personal and dependent deductions.”
The state rate rose from 4.45% to 5%, and many digital products and services (like streaming subscriptions, e-books, and software) are now taxed. Phone, cable, and streaming services carry an extra 5% tax, making the total state rate 10% on those items.
Families making under $10,000 a year may see their tax bills rise slightly because they don’t owe much income tax but still pay the higher sales taxes, according to the report.
For middle-income households, most will see meaningful savings, in some cases a few hundred dollars a year. Higher income households get the biggest tax cuts in dollar terms, though they also pay more of the increased sales taxes.
The study estimates about 9% of households could see their taxes go up, with another 7% getting only a very small cut.
The report concludes that Louisiana’s tax code overall remains slightly progressive – higher earners pay a bigger share – but the changes make the system a bit less tilted toward lower-income individuals and households than before.
The state changes come on top of sweeping new federal tax cuts signed into law this summer.
The changes to the state taxes have now been complemented by federal tax changes.

Public notices for Aug. 22, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF A REGULAR MEETING
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE MORGAN CITY HARBOR AND TERMINAL
DISTRICT
July 14, 2025
The Board of Commissioners (“Board”) of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (“District”) met in regular session at the District’s office at 7327 Highway 182, Morgan City, Louisiana on July 14, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Deborah Garber, Vice-President, convened the meeting with Commissioners Steven Cornes, Marc Fel- terman, Matthew Glover, Troy Lombardo, Adam Mayon, Matthew Tycer and Michael Wise in attendance. Ben Adams was absent. Also present in the meeting were Raymond Wade, Executive Director; Cindy Cutrera, Economic Development Manager; Tori Henry, Office Manager; Michael Knobloch, Special Projects Manager; Gerard Bourgeois, Board Attorney; CPO Caitlin Barker, United States Coast Guard (“USCG”); Robert Karam, T. Baker Smith; Bill Blan-chard, GIS Engineering; and members of the general public.
The meeting was called to order, and the presence of a quorum was noted. Raymond Wade led the invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Gerard Bourgeois swore in Marc Felterman as the newest member of the Morgan City Harbor & Terminal District’s board, who was welcomed by Mr. Wade and the Board.
It was moved by Mr. Lombardo and seconded by Mr. Tycer that the minutes of the regular meeting of June 9, 2025 be approved and adopted, with said motion carrying unanimously.
It was moved by Mr. Tycer that the report of receipts and disbursements for the month of June, 2025 be re- ceived and accepted and that all invoices presented to the Board for the month of June, 2025 be paid. Mr. Wise seconded that motion, which carried unanimously.
Ms. Garber presented the 2025/ 2026 budget that had been previously emailed, faxed or otherwise delivered to the Board. It was moved by Mr. Mayon and seconded by Mr. Tycer that the 2025/2026 budget be adopted, the expenditures of the funds therein for 2025/2026 be authorized and the following resolution be adopted, which was unanimously approved.
RESOLUTION
A resolution providing for the adoption of the 2025/2026 budget for the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (“District”).
WHEREAS, this Board of Commissioners (“Board”) deems it necessary and proper to prepare and adopt a budget with de- fined goals on revenues and expenses for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026;
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District does hereby approve the budget presented and adopts it as an Operating Budget of Revenues and Expenditures for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the detailed estimate of Revenues and Expenditures for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026 presented this evening, be and the same is hereby adopted as the Operating Budget for the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District, during the same period.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the detailed estimate of Revenues and Expenditures for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026 presented this evening, be and the same is hereby declared to operate as an appropriation of the amount therein set forth within the terms of the budget classification.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that any deviations or budgetary amendments require the approval of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District Board.
Raymond Wade reported on behalf of Tim Connell that: (i) Dredge Arulaq continues dredging 24/7 in the Bar Channel, with two years left on their contract; (ii) Dredge Mike Hooks moved to Bayou Black to begin removing over 2 million yards of plugged material; (iii) Manon will bring in a dredge in Berwick Harbor and Stouts Pass by the end of the month; and (iv) Bayou Boeuf Locks are closed during daylight hours, Monday through Friday with the alternate route being Bayou Chene.
CPO Caitlin Barker reported that: (i) there were 2,164 total transits in June through the VTS zone, averaging 79 per day; (ii) there were three (3) incidents within one week, prior to Dredge Jadwin completing dredging in Stouts Pass; and (iii) a bulletin to mariners was sent out this morning re- garding the Bayou Boeuf Lock closure.
Michael Knobloch reported that: (i) the warehouse fire suppression system is nearing completion, but we still have to go before the Interim Emergency Board to get their blessing to include the roof and insulation in this project; (ii) we received a Notice to Proceed from MARAD last week for BABA compliant equipment purchases and will begin advertising next week; and (ii) we will be requesting funding from US Department of Transportation’s (USDOT’s) “FY 2025 US Marine Highways Program” (USMHP) Grant Program, with application due on July 15th. It was moved by Mr. Mayon and seconded by Mr. Wise that the following resolution be submitted for $772,800 for equipment and be matched by $193,200 local funds, which resolution was unanimously adopted.
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that the Board of Commissioners of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District does hereby authorize and support the submission of its proposed funding request entitled “Procuring Cargo Transloading Equipment – Phase 4B” to the US Department of Transportation’s (USDOT’s) “FY 2025 US Marine Highways Program” (USMHP) Grant Program. In addition, since the project totals $966,000, the MCHTD requests $772,800 from the FY 2025 USMHP program and agrees to provide a local, non-federal match of $193,200.
Robert Karam reported that (i) they are finalizing the mitigation plan for the West Dock for Corps approval; and (ii) the Corps forgot to submit some information for water quality for the permit but recognized their error and changed some of the permit process to bypass it, which sped it up.
Bill Blanchard reported that: (i) Mr. Brett drydock is substantially complete and currently in the clear lien phase; (ii) Coastal Dredging is facing some challenges due to the clay material they are encountering, so we ex- pect a change order submission to address this issue. They have also submitted a change order in the amount of $1,165,000 for the access Channel to dispose of dredge spoils. The initial estimated volume of material was 33,000 cubic yards, but after it went out for bid and was awarded, the landowner now wants the bottom depth of channel resulting in additional 83,000 cubic yards of material and an additional 94 days of work. Mr. Mayon moved to authorize said change order, contingent upon FP&C ap- proval, with was seconded by Mr. Cornes and carried unanimously. Mr. Mayon moved to amend said mo- tion, seconded by Mr. Tycer to in- clude an Amendment to the GIS contract for administration services and resident project representative. Mr. Bourgeois noted that we are not paying any additional funds for this project.
Cindy Cutrera reported that: (i) Charles Brittingham noted that the Energy and Water appropriations committee will be meeting on the markups on the bill and is not expecting any changes in the President’s budget; (ii) the MRC will be holding their annual low water inspection trip, with the public meeting on August 22nd. Charles plans to attend the meeting, along with a boat tour of industry; (iii) Mac will be attending the Corps Change of Command ceremony from Colonel Jones to Colonel Autin, of Houma; and (iv) CPRA announced their new Executive Director, Michael Hare, formerly of Congressman Charles Boustany’s office. She noted she would send out her board report with more details tomorrow.
Gerard Bourgeois reported that after last month’s discussion, it has been unanimously agreed upon to move the monthly board meeting to the third Monday of the month at noon, beginning August 18, 2025.
With there being no further business to come before the Board, it was moved by Mr. Tycer and seconded by Mr. Lombardo that the meeting was adjourned.
Attest:
———————
Matthew K.
Glover,
Secretary

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF A SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE MORGAN CITY HARBOR AND TERMINAL
DISTRICT
July 23, 2025
The Board of Commissioners (“Board”) of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (“District”) met in special session at the District’s office at 7327 Highway 182, Morgan City, Louisiana on July 23, 2025 at 12:05 p.m. Ben Adams, President, convened the meeting with Commissioners Steven Cornes, Marc Felterman, Deborah Garber, Troy Lombardo, Adam Mayon, and Michael Wise in attendance. Matthew Glover and Matthew Tycer were absent. Also present at the meeting were Raymond Wade, Executive Director; Tori Henry, Office Manager; Cindy Cutrera, Economic De- velopment Manager; Gerard Bourgeois, Board Attorney; and Michael Knobloch, Special Projects Manager.
Mr. Bourgeois noted the purpose of the special meeting was: (i) to discuss any action on the West Dock Expansion Project, including authorizing purchase of mitigation bank credits in the amount of $45,000. Mr. Mayon moved to authorize said purchase, which was seconded by Mr. Cornes and carried unanimously; and (ii) discuss action on State Project No. 36-P15-23-02 Warehouse Infrastructure (Fire Suppression) Change Order No. 2 in the amount of $9,696.12 to relocate staircase and back flow preventer. Mr. Cornes moved to authorize said change order, which was seconded by Mr. Wise and carried unanimously.
With there being no further business to come before the Board, it was moved by Mr. Mayon and seconded by Mr. Lombardo that the meeting was ad- journed.
Attest:
———————
Matthew Glover,
Secretary
Adv. Aug. 22, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish
Water & Sewer Comm. 2
P.O. Box 635
Patterson, La. 70392
July 14, 2025
The Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 5:30 p.m. at the district office with President, Chris Cooper presiding.
Present: Board Members – Chris Cooper-President, Tony Hensgens-Vice President, Thomas Philbrook-Sec. Treas., Raymond Beadle & Paul Tholen.
Guests: Larry & Pam Fromenthal- Fromenthal Plumbing, Glen Duncan- Providence Engineers. Employees- Destinee DiMaggio, Dakota Dupuy, and Jason Scott.
Chris Cooper called the meeting to order and roll call was taken.
June’s board minutes were ac- cepted as circulated with a motion from Tony Hensgens and a second from Paul Tholen, motion carried.
Accounts Payable and Treasurer’s Report was accepted by motion from Thomas Philbrook and a second from Raymond Beadle, motion carried.
Larry Fromenthal provided his maintenance re- port for the month. There was a water break at Pluto & Hwy 182 that was repaired, there is additional work that needs to be done for future preventive measures. Larry in- stalled an insert pump at Middle Rd Station. He is working through some master meter changeouts. Larry is currently looking into our water loss. He is going to put in a tap and pressure gauge on each side of our lines coming from the Teche to check for any water loss in that area.
Jason Scott provided his maintenance report for the month. Routine maintenance has been completed. Jason has been going through the flushing program to help with the recent water is- sues and has been keeping track of that water loss as he goes.
Tony Hensgens gave a joint plant update. He stated that the work on the roof is almost completed. There is a pump making a knocking noise so they are checking on that.
Paul Tholen took Alexis, Destinee, Logan, & Jason on a tour of the water plant.
Glen Duncan has two engineers that will be working up numbers for a sewer station rehab project, this will be given in the form of a proposal when it is ready.
Chris Cooper said that Alexis and Logan are at training in Lake Charles this week for certifications.
He stated that once the flushing program is completed the recent issues should be taken care of now.
He reminded everyone to get their sexual harassment and ethics training completed.
Chris also stated that our budget is on track.
There being no further business to come before the board, a motion was made by Raymond Beadle to adjourn with a second from Paul Tholen, all were in favor and motion passed.
———————
Chris Cooper-
President
———————
Destinee
DiMaggio –
Recording
Secretary
Adv. Aug. 22, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Fire Protection
District No. 3
Post Office
Box 921
Amelia,
Louisiana 70340
July 15, 2025
The regular meeting was called to order by Mr. Foret at 6:00 pm
Members present: Denise Chaisson, Joey Foret, Royal Young, Scott Singleton
Members ab- sent: Clint Abshire
Guests in attendance: Jason Brown
Public Comment: None
A motion was made by Mrs. Chaisson and seconded by Mr. Young to accept the minutes from the June 2025 meeting. All were in favor. Motion carried.
A motion was made by Mr. Young and seconded by Mr. Singleton to approve the Treasurer’s Report from June 2025. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Guest: None.
New Business: Mrs. Chaisson made a motion to pay Jason Brown and Bobby Guidry for their unused vacation and holiday pay, second by Mr. Young. All were in favor. Mo- tion carried.
Old business: None
Other Business: Fire Chief Brown told the board the meeting hall has termites and gave an update on truck maintenance.
A motion was made to pay the fire department bills by Mr. Singleton and 2nd by Mr. Young. All in favor. Motion carried.
A motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Young and seconded by Mr. Singleton, all were in favor.
Meeting ended 6:16pm
Adv. Aug. 22, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
TOWN OF
BERWICK
PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Date: Thursday September 4, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Place: Council Meeting Room
Berwick Town Hall
3225 Third St
A•G•E•N•D•A
Public Hearing(s);
Case #1: (Tabled from August meeting) Application for Conditional Use Approval for Mr. Harris Dehart regarding excavating appx ½ Acre Pond on Lot 1A, a tract of land situated in Section 28, Township 15, Range 12, bearing physical address of 417 Fairview Drive, Parcel #314401166.00.
Persons requiring reasonable accommodation to attend the public hearing and meeting are requested to contact the Office of Director of Planning at (985) 384-8858 prior to the meeting to discuss their particular needs.
Adv. Aug. 22, 27 and 29, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
Ocwen Loan Acquistion Trust 2023-HB1
Vs. No. 138284 Div “D”
Earline T. Grizzaffi (A/K/A Earline Tourera Grizzaffi, Earline Grizzaffi)
TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Order of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 16th Judicial District Court, in and for the Parish of St. Mary, and to me directed, in the above numbered and entitled suit, I have seized the following mentioned and described property, to wit:
THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED REAL ESTATE SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF ST. MARY AND STATE OF LOUISIANA, TO-WIT.
THE EAST FIFTY (50 FEET) FEET OF THAT CERTAIN LOT OF GROUND, LYING AND BEING SITUATED IN MORGAN CITY, PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA, KNOWN, DESIGNATED AND DESCRIBED AS LOT SEVEN (7) IN SQUARE THIRTY-ONE (31) IN MORGAN CITY, LOUISIANA, AS PER MAP AND PLAN OF BARNES, RECORDED IN THE RECORDERS OFFICE; SAID PART OF LOT HEREIN HAVING FIFTY (50 FEET) FEET FRONT ON NORTH SIDE OF FRERET STREET, FIFTY (50 FEET) FRONT ON WEST SIDE OF ALLEY RUNNING NORTH AND SOUTH THROUGH SAID SQUARE THIRTY-ONE (31 FEET); TOGETHER WITH AT BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON SITUATED AND APPERTAINING, (COB 4-H) FOLIO 537, ENTRY NO. 51,567 ON JANUARY 25, 1926).
AND
THE REAR FIFTY (50 FEET) FEET OF LOT SIX (6) IN SQUARE THIRTY-ONE (31) IN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF MORGAN CITY, PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA, TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS AND ALL RIGHTS OF WAYS, PRIVILEGES AND SERVITUDES THEREUNTO BELONGING OR ANYWISE APPERTAINING.
THE HEREIN LOT SOLD HAVING A WIDTH OF FIFTY (50 FEET) FEET ON THE WEST SIDE OF ALLEY RUNNING NORTH AND SOUTH THROUGH SAID SQUARE: BY A DEPTH BETWEEN PARALLEL LINES OF FIFTY (50 FEET) FEET, WESTERLY WITH EQUAL DISTANCES APART (COB 4-K, FOLIO 306, ENTRY NO. 51,849 ON APRIL 17, 1926).
Which has the address of 405 Freret Street, Morgan City, LA 70380
to satisfy the sum of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED TWENTY EIGHT AND 06/100 ($152,228.06) with interest thereon at the rate of 5.06% per annum in accordance with the note and mortgage, together with late charges on additional delinquent installments and any additional amounts which petitioner has advanced or hereafter advances, as permitted by the Note and Mortgage, for taxes, assessments, repairs to and maintenance and preservation of the mortgaged property, together with reasonable attorneys’ fees of all sums due, owing and unpaid, and all costs of this proceedings, as well as all sheriff’s costs and commission
All successful bidders must have cash, cashier’s check or a verifiable letter of credit in favor of said bidder from a solvent bank, savings and loan association or other such financial institution authorized to do business in the state of Louisiana and full payment must be made on the date of sale. Letter must state that money is available on the date of sale.
I shall expose the same at public sale, for Cash, according to law WITH appraisement to the last and highest bidder, at the principal front door of the 1st floor lobby area of the Court House in the Parish of St. Mary, Town of Franklin, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 24th day of September A.D., 2025, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Thursday, the 7th day of August A.D., 2025
GARY L. DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. Aug. 22 and Sept. 17, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Recreation District No. 3 of the Parish of St. Mary will conduct a proposed budget hearing on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 5:15 pm at the Bayou Vista Community Center, Bayou Vista, Louisiana. The purpose of the hearing is to invite public comment in the budget process on the District’s operations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025.
The proposed budget is available for public inspection in the District’s offices at the Bayou Vista Community Center, 1333 Belleview Street Morgan City, LA 70380. Interested persons may examine the budget documents during regular office hours, Monday through Friday (8:00 am – 4:00 pm).
Brian Head,
President
Recreation District No. 3 of the Parish of St. Mary
Adv. July 23, 25, 30, Aug. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20 and 22, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)
Walkway Renovation: Removal of Existing Wood & Installation of Trex Decking
RFP Number: CCT01
Date Issued: August 13, 2025
Proposals Due By: October 21, 2025, by 4:00 pm
Project Location: Cajun Coast Tourism, 900 Dr. MLK Blvd. Morgan City, LA 70380
——
1. Project Overview
St. Mary Parish Tourist Commission DBA Cajun Coast Tourism is seeking proposals from qualified contractors to remove the existing wood planks on an outdoor walkway and install new Trex (or equivalent composite) decking boards. The selected contractor will be responsible for all materials, labor, and equipment necessary to complete the project to code and by the specifications.
——
2. Scope of Work
The scope of this project includes, but is not limited to:
•Site inspection and confirmation of measurements.
•Safe removal and disposal of all existing wood decking materials.
•Inspection of the substructure for damage or weakness; report and propose re- pairs as necessary.
•Supply and installation of Trex composite boards or an equivalent approved brand.
•All necessary fasteners, supports, and trim pieces must be included.
•Ensure all work meets local building codes and manufacturer guidelines.
•Site cleanup and debris removal upon project completion.
•If permits are needed, contractor my provide
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3. Specifications
•Material: Trex Enhance, Select, or equivalent composite decking (color to be specified).
•Walkway Di- mensions: ap- prox. 1604 sf and top decks 691 sf
•Fasteners: Hidden fastening system preferred (or as recommended by the manufacturer).
•Warranty: Materials must include a manufacturer’s warranty; a workmanship warranty of at least 1 year is required.
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4. Proposal Re- quirements
Proposals must include:
•Company profile, license, and insurance documentation.
•Detailed cost estimate (labor, materials, equipment, disposal, etc.).
•Proposed timeline and availability to begin work.
•Three references from recent similar projects.
•Any optional value-add services or alternative recommendations.
——
5. Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on:
•Cost competitiveness
•Contractor ex- perience and qualifications
•Proposed timeline and project management ap- proach
•Quality of materials proposed
•References and past performance
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6. Submission Instructions
Please submit your sealed bids to:
Contact Name: Christal Carter
Email: ccarter@cajuncoast.com
Phone: (985) 380-8224
Mailing Address: PO Box 2332, Morgan City, LA 70381
Physical Address: 900 DR. MLK Blvd. Morgan City, LA 70380
Deadline: October 13, 2025
Late submissions may not be considered.
——
7. Terms & Conditions
St. Mary Parish Tourist Commission DBA Cajun Coast Tourism reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive informalities and minor irregularities, and to accept the sealed bids deemed in the best interest of the project.
Adv. Aug. 15, 22 and 29, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
Flagstar Bank, N.A.
Vs. No. 137586 Div “B”
Scott J. Richoux and Britny S. Richoux A/K/A Britny Savoie Richoux
TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Order of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 16th Judicial District Court, in and for the Parish of St. Mary, and to me directed, in the above numbered and entitled suit, I have seized the following mentioned and described property, to wit:
That certain lot or parcel of land together with all buildings and im- provements thereon situated and the component parts thereof, and all rights, ways, privileges, servitudes and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining lying and being situated in Berwick, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, being known designated and des-cribed as the SOUTH 74.3 FEET OF LOT 2 OF BLOCK “D” OF COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES UNIT NO. 1, as per map of said subdivision made by J.C. Thomas, Jr., Surveyor, of date March 22, 1967, last revised January 22, 1968, which map is attached to an act of sale recorded in St. Mary Parish COB 15-G, Entry No. 136,536; subject to restrictions, servitudes, rights-of-way and outstanding mineral rights of record affecting the property.
to satisfy the sum of ONE HUNDRED TWENTY TWO THOUSAND SIXTEEN AND 50/100 ($122,016.50) DOLLARS, with interest thereon at 5.12500% per annum from May 01, 2022, until paid; all expenses incurred in enforcing the note and mortgage including reasonable attorney’s fees; if/as applicable, such other or additional amounts incurred or advanced for taxes, insurance premiums, special assessments, re- pairs to and/or maintenance of the property, for the protection, preservation, repair and recovery of the property, for the protection and preservation of the lien of the mortgage, for the protection and preservation of the mortgagee’s interest thereunder, and other amounts provided by the mortgage and ap- plicable law, such as late charges, escrow advances for the payment of taxes and insurance, corporate ad- vances, property appraisals, inspection fees, prior attorney fees and expenses, abstract and title charges, NSF charges, attorney fees and expenses, and other charges which plaintiff is permitted to prove by verified petition, verified supplemental petition, or affidavit filed or submitted before distribution by the sheriff of the proceeds of the judicial sale herein; and all law charges, fees and expenses incurred in connection or relating to this proceeding including without limitation sheriff’s commission, sheriff’s costs, court costs all as permitted by the note or mortgage being en- forced by this proceeding and all costs of this proceedings, as well as all sheriff’s costs and commission
All successful bidders must have cash, cashier’s check or a verifiable letter of credit in favor of said bidder from a solvent bank, savings and loan association or other such financial institution authorized to do business in the state of Louisiana and full payment must be made on the date of sale. Letter must state that money is available on the date of sale.
I shall expose the same at public sale, for Cash, according to law WITH appraisement to the last and highest bidder, at the principal front door of the 1st floor lobby area of the Court House in the Parish of St. Mary, Town of Franklin, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 24th day of September A.D., 2025, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Thursday, the 7th day of August A.D., 2025
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. Aug. 22 and Sept. 17, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE: School Board Surplus Property Auction
The St. Mary Parish School Board hereby gives notice that it will conduct a public auction for the sale of surplus movable property no longer needed for public purposes.
Online Auction Date & Time:
Monday, August 18, 2025
Friday, August 22, 2025
Location: https://www.GovDeals.com/stmaryparishschoolboard
Items for Sale Include:
Desks, chairs, tables, filing cabinets, and other surplus school equipment.
Terms of Sale:
•All items will be sold to the highest bidder.
•The School Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
•Items will be sold “as is, where is.”
•Payment must be made in full at the time of sale, in accordance with GovDeals.com buyer agreements.
•Buyers are re- sponsible for re- moval and transportation of purchased items, in accordance with GovDeals.com buyer agreements.
•All items must be removed within 10 days following the closing of the auction. Pickup must be scheduled within 24 hours of payment.
Important No- tice:
Some items, such as large tables, may re- quire additional manpower and equipment for hauling, including but not limited to dollies, trailers, and multiple individuals to assist with moving.
Publication Dates:
This notice will be published in the School Board’s official journal on the following dates:
Adv. Aug. 20, 21 and 22, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice To The Public
Notice is hereby given that the Parish Council of St. Mary Parish will meet on the 10th day of September, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. for the purpose of receiving protests and hearing complaints on values of property for assessment purposes in the parish fixed by the Assessor of St. Mary Parish. All taxpayers desiring to protest values fixed by the St. Mary Parish Assessor must file their protest in writing or verbally with the Clerk of the Council seven (7) days before the date of the said meeting. PLEASE NOTE: You must submit all information concerning the value of your property to your assessor before the deadline for filing an appeal with the Board of Review. The failure to submit such information may prevent you from relying on that information should you protest your value.
LISA C. MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. Aug. 20 and 22, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
AGENDA
ST. MARY PARISH 911 COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT
1200 David Dr. Building B
Morgan City, LA 70380
August 28, 2025
1:00 P.M.
1. Meeting Called to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Minutes: July 24, 2025
4. Guest(s): Gary Black, Central Square representative
5. Public Comment
6. Income Statement: July 2025
7. Expense Statement: July 2025
8. Old Business: None
9. New Business: Central Square-VERTEX call handling demonstration by Mr. Black
10. Director Up- dates
11. General Discussion
12. Adjournment
Adv. Aug. 22, 2025

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CHARLENE LaCOSTE OHMER

Charlene LaCoste Ohmer, 70, a native and resident of Morgan City, died Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, at her residence.
She is survived by her husband, Gerald Ohmer Jr.; daughters, Jessica Jones and Erika Ohmer; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sisters, Rosa Elliot, Jessie Gauither and Nancy Domangue; and brother, Russell Barrileaux.
She was preceded in death by her parents and four siblings.
Visitation will be Saturday from 9 a.m. until services at noon at Twin City Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Morgan City Cemetery.

Sexual battery, domestic and drug charges in arrests this week

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

Berwick police reported an arrest Tuesday on a sexual battery charge and two arrests this week in domestic abuse battery and drug cases.

Berwick

Chief David Leonard Sr. reported that the Berwick Police Department responded to 18 calls in the last 48-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Dennis Romero, 63, Berwick, was arrested at 9:34 p.m. Tuesday on a Berwick warrant alleging sexual battery.

--Bonnie Manzo, 68, Berwick, Berwick, was arrested 11: 02 p.m. Tuesday on a charge of resisting an officer with force or violence and on a Berwick warrant alleging domestic abuse battery.

--Stephanie Harvey, 43, Morgan City, was arrested at 8:35 a.m. Wednesday on charges of prohibited acts (THC vape device), possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a legend drug (gabapentin), and on a Morgan City Police Department warrant alleging possession of Xanax, possession of hydrocodone and theft.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that the Morgan City Police Department responded to 57 calls for service over the last 24-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Troy Thompson, 57, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 3:57 p.m. Wednesday on charges of terrorizing and resisting an officer.

--Joshua Crosby, 36, Baronne Street, Baldwin, was arrested at 4:16 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of theft (under $1,000).

--Gerald Jones, 50, Keith Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 2:57 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of disturbing the peace.

--Tyrone Thomas, 61, Florida Alley, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:05 p.m. Wednesday on two counts of failure to appear arraignment and two counts of failure to appear to pay fine (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Shiela Mouton, 56, Oak Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:07 p.m. Wednesday on charges of possession of cocaine and failure to signal.

--Frank Rock, 37, Andrew Street, Patterson, was arrested at 10:24 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of failure to appear for review (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Leslie Johnson, 31, Mallard Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:27 p.m. Wednesday on charges of possession of synthetic marijuana (first offense), possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer, failure to appear for arraignment and
failure to appear to pay fine (6th Ward Morgan City Court.

St. Mary

Sheriff Gary Driskell reported that over the last 24-hour reporting period, the Sheriff's Office responded to 60 complaints and made these arrests:

--Edgar Morales Mendiola, 17, New Iberia, was arrested at 9:15 p.m. on charges of battery of a dating partner, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and unlawful sale, purchase or possession of tobacco by a person under 18.

Bail has not been set at this time.

--Cornesha Lashay Robertson, 19, Jeanerette, was arrested at 9:15 p.m. Wednesday on charges of battery of a dating partner and simple criminal damage to property. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Jessica Watts, 38, Bayou Vista, was arrested by the Narcotics Section at 4:31 p.m. Wednesday on a warrant alleging possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and keeping a disorderly place. Bail has not been set at this time.

89th festival queen looks back on her reign

They say time flies when you are having fun, but I never expected it to move this fast. I often think back to the moment I was crowned; I remember feeling overwhelmed with emotions of excitement, gratitude, pride, and a touch of nerves. Reigning as the 89th Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival Queen has been more than just an honor — it has been the realization of a dream that has lived in my heart since I was a little girl.
This year has been far more than wearing an intricate crown. It has been about sharing the story of our festival, its culture and rich traditions, and representing the industries that built my hometown. In doing so, I have had incredible opportunities to experience our great state of Louisiana in ways I never imagined.
I picked cotton in Ville Platte, chewed on raw sugar cane in New Iberia, milked a cow in Abbeville, and went crawfishing in Breaux Bridge. I picked the sweetest citrus fruits in Plaquemines Parish, had way too many strawberries in Ponchatoula, tried my first raw oyster in Cameron Parish, shot skeet in Gueydan, and even slid down the levee in Lutcher. These are just a few experiences I will carry with me forever.
There are two moments that shine the brightest throughout my reign. The first was attending the Mystic Krewe of Louisianians Mardi Gras Ball in Washington, D.C., where I proudly represented the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival. Walking through the ballroom dressed in full regalia representing my festival and its traditions, all while people were cheering and confetti was showering down, is a memory that still brings tears to my eyes.
The second moment was being invited by Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser to ride in the Krewe of Bacchus parade in New Orleans, as their theme was Louisiana Fairs and Festivals. Alongside some of my best friends, we made history as some of the first women to ever ride in a Krewe of Bacchus parade. Experiencing New Orleans Mardi Gras for the first time, riding through the streets, waving to thousands of people, and ending in the Convention Center dancing the night away with people I now consider family, all while representing the festival and people of my hometown, is something I will never forget.
Over the last 365 days, I have traveled to more than 50 events across our state, fallen deeper in love with Louisiana’s people and traditions, and stood proudly as your 89th Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival Queen. To my hometown, Morgan City, I cannot thank you enough for your constant support, encouragement, and love. Representing you and the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival has been the honor of a lifetime, and I truly hope I’ve made you proud.
Forever and always,
Queen 89
Natalie Catherine Sloane

Inflatable fire house

Morgan City Fire Department photo
The Morgan City Fire Department has a new way to educate people about fire safety: an inflatable fire safety house. If you would like to include this in a public event, please contact us at the Morgan City Fire Department, 985-380-4617, and ask for Assistant Chief Patrick Haller.

Bayou Horseshoe Pitchers standings, Week 6

Summer League - 2025
Week 6
W L
Good People 34.5 19.5
Hydrate 27.5 26.5
J D J 26.5 27.5
Penny Makers 26.5 27.5
Ring A Dingers 25.0 27.0
Down & Back 22 32
High scratch point average: (30’) Tim Gilmore 80.0, Burnie Williams 62.7 and Clay Canty 59.9; and (40’) Dwain Arceneaux 52.2, Randy Giroir 42.9 and Jim Guzdial 39.5. High individual ringer percentage: (30’) Gilmore 59.0, Julius Lovell 43.0 and Dale Pearce 40.3; and (40’) Arceneaux 34.0, Giroir 24.9 and Hilton Rhodes 19.8.
High scratch game: (30’) Gilmore 95, Pearce 78 and Williams 75; and (40’) Arceneaux 63, Giroir 59 and Guzdial 52. Most ringers: (one night) Gilmore 78, Pearce 61, Canty 51 and Travis Bourdier 49; and (one game) Gilmore 29, Pearce 23, Glenn Caillouet 21, Williams 20, Canty 20 and Lovell 19. Most points one night: Gilmore 260, Pearce 209, Canty 202, Williams 201 and Al Dodson 191.
High handicap game: Pearce 112, Linda Dodson 109, Gilmore 105; Ricky Pitre, Glen Hidalgo, Bourdier and Caillouet 102. High game over average: (40’) Rhodes 16.2 and (30’) Pearce 26.0. Best won-loss record: Williams 10-2, Pearce 10.5-4.5; Gilmore. Linda Dodson 10-5, Tessie Toups 8.5-4.5 and Rhodes 9-3. Most points one night – team: Ring A Dingers 525, J D J 477. Most ringers one night – team: Ring A Dingers 140, J D J 121.

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ST. MARY NOW

Franklin Banner-Tribune
P.O. Box 566, Franklin, LA 70538
Phone: 337-828-3706
Fax: 337-828-2874

Morgan City Review
1014 Front Street, Morgan City, LA 70380
Phone: 985-384-8370
Fax: 985-384-4255