Morgan City 'The Water We Drink' report
Wed, 06/18/2025 - 6:00am
Click on the link below to download a .pdf version of the report.
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Wheel House for June 18
Wed, 06/18/2025 - 6:00am
HAT
RALLY
2 p.m. Sunday, June 29, by Zion Chapel A.M.E. Church at Patterson Community Center, 1101 First St., Patterson. Guest speaker: Wanda Keeler on “Fascinating Women of God Celebrating Christ with Heads Lifted High.” Wear beautiful hats and lovely fascinators, but it’s not required. Prizes will be awarded.
LANDFILL
CLOSED
The Harold J. “Babe” Landry Landfill and the West End Solid Waste Pick Up Station will close at noon Thursday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
Jim Bradshaw: Castex found opportunity on the Mermentau
Wed, 06/18/2025 - 6:00am
JIM BRADSHAW
When Jean Castex started a small general store on the Mermentau River, the town that grew up around it was little more than a crossing point for brave travelers on the Old Spanish Trail.
The area was just beginning to lose its reputation as a refuge for smugglers, outlaws and other assorted scoundrels. He wasn’t one of them.
In fact, he had the reputation of getting along with everybody, even as he made a little profit off of them. Or sometimes more than a little.
John Landreth, a surveyor, who in 1818 visited the area looking for timber suitable for building Navy ships, wrote in his journal, “these places, particularly the Mermentau and Calcasieu, are the harbours and Dens of the most abandoned wretches of the human race ... smugglers and Pirates who go about the coast of the Gulph in vessels of a small draught of water and rob and plunder without distinction every vessel of every nation they meet and are able to conquer and put to death every soul they find on board without respect of … age or sex and then their unlawful plunder they carry all through the country and sell at a very low rate and find plenty of purchasers.”
Most of the really bad wretches had cleared out by the time Castex, a native of Gourdon, France, opened a general store on the river in 1856, but it was still a pretty rowdy place..
It’s not clear why or how he got to the Mermentau, but he was shrewd enough to recognize when he got there that the point where most travelers crossed the river was a good place to set up shop.
He was a pioneer farmer as well as a pioneer settler.
He is thought to be the first planter to use a deep well to irrigate his rice crop, using a windmill to power the pump.
He also planted cotton and built what may have been the first cotton gin in the area in 1860.
When he died in 1900, the New Orleans Picayune reported that he was “one of the pioneer settlers of the village of Mermentau … [and] was engaged in general merchandise there and was also largely interested in rice farming and other business pursuits.”
A later newspaper account described him as a “prominent land owner and business man … [and] one of the most colorful figures in the early business and civic history of this section.” He was “owner of thousands of acres of land, [and a] stockman, mill owner, and proprietor of one of the largest general merchandise stores in Southwest Louisiana,” according to that account.
He “lived in the traditional French style,” the newspaper said. “His home was a haven for travelers going through the country, when travel was mainly by horseback, and he was famed, not only for his wealth and broad estates, but for his generous hospitality.”
He and his wife, the former Alice Landry of St. Landry Parish, were visiting France when he died unexpectedly on Aug. 14, 1900, at the home of his brother near Paris.
His remains were brought back to Louisiana, and he was buried in Calvary Cemetery in Jennings.
By then his son, also named Jean, was managing the family’s “many farms and various activities pertinent to such vast land holdings,” including the store “which catered to the needs of the farming element for miles around.”
Young Jean and his wife, Clara Andrus, a descendant of the founder of the Andrus Cove community, continued to live on the old family estate until, about 1935, it became the “site of the latest oil development in the section.”
You can contact Jim Bradshaw at jimbradshaw4321@gmail.com or P.O. Box 1121, Washington LA 70589.
Pet Talk: Give your pet a break from flea bites
Wed, 06/18/2025 - 6:00am
Pets are susceptible to contracting fleas from a variety of sources. Migrating wildlife can even bring fleas to areas where they may not normally flourish. Read this story online.
The summer heat has crept in — and with it the critters that have owners and pets alike itching. Fleas, in particular, have a tendency to make themselves at home in your carpet, bedding, and, worst of all, your pet’s fur, inflicting constant irritation and posing potential health risks to their hosts.
Dr. Lori Teller, a clinical professor at Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, offers insight into the symptoms and dangers of fleas as well as effective prevention methods.
How fleas spread
Although fleas thrive the most in warm, wet climates, there are very few places in the United States where fleas are not a problem for at least part of the year.
“The Gulf Coast region is a major place for fleas to thrive,” Teller said. “Areas where it’s very cold and dry, especially at higher altitudes, and desert areas that are extremely hot and dry will generally have a lower incidence of fleas.”
Whether from the environment, other animals, or people, pets are susceptible to contracting fleas from a variety of sources. Migrating wildlife can even bring fleas to areas where they may not normally flourish.
“Pets can pick up fleas from direct contact with other animals, such as at a dog park, pet store, kennel, or the beach,” Teller said. “They can also pick them up in the environment, such as the backyard or when on walks. In some cases, fleas can hitch a ride on people’s clothing or gear, such as a backpack.”
The signs
When fleas make themselves at home in a pet’s fur, symptoms can range from itchiness to major skin irritation.
“Fleas can cause pets to become itchy, especially on their lower back, inner thighs, and head,” Teller said. “With enough scratching and chewing, a pet can pull out its hair, create raw and inflamed lesions on its body, and develop a secondary bacterial infection.”
A visual inspection can often help owners know if fleas are the cause of their pet’s itching and scratching.
“Sometimes you can see fleas on your pet, especially in areas where the hair coat is thinner,” Teller said. “You may also see what looks like pepper in your pet’s fur; these black granules, called flea dirt, will turn reddish when wet.”
Beyond nuisance
Fleas are more than just an irritation; they can also pose several health risks to pets, including:
•Spread of the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum from ingesting fleas
•Flea-allergic dermatitis, an allergic reaction to flea saliva
•Secondary infections from raw wounds
“A severe infestation, especially in very young or old pets, can even lead to life-threatening anemia, sometimes requiring a blood transfusion,” Teller said.
Fleas also can spread disease-causing bacteria to people, including Bartonella henselae, the cause of cat scratch fever; Yersinia pestis, the cause of bubonic plague; and Rickettsia typhi, the cause of murine typhus.
Flea-ing
The best way to shield your pet from fleas — and the secondary problems they can cause — is by using a veterinary-approved flea and tick preventative.
“The preventives prescribed by veterinarians tend to be more effective, but the best prevention is the one that you use consistently,” Teller said.
These preventatives are available as topical treatments, oral medications, and medicated collars.
Teller recommends that every dog and cat in the household be on flea prevention, even those that are inside-only.
“It is extremely important that the product you use is labeled for the species you are treating,” Teller said. “Dog products should never be used on cats. If you accidentally use the wrong product on your pet, immediately call animal poison control and contact your veterinarian.”
Controlling fleas in a pet’s environment, including inside the home, is another important part of prevention.
“If you are battling a flea infestation in your home, there are some flea treatments that can be used in your carpet and furniture,” Teller said. “You may also want to enlist the help of a professional exterminator.”
Combating fleas requires a proactive and thorough approach, but by preparing for the presence of fleas, treating the issue promptly, and maintaining a clean household, your pets will be healthier and itch-free — ready to play another day away.
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the web at vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk. Suggestions for future topics may be directed to vmbs-editor@tamu.edu.
Dear Abby: Ex-wife held secret for decades
Wed, 06/18/2025 - 6:00am
DEAR ABBY: My ex-husband was found dead in his home three months ago. He was a bitter man who never forgave me for leaving him. We were divorced for 30 years before his death and have two children and four beautiful grandchildren. For years, he bitterly complained to our children and refused to attend special events because I left him. When there were issues, he refused to help, insisting it was my fault because I had left.
The truth is, I left after I walked in on him having sex with my older sister. Neither of them saw me, and I never told him. Now he’s gone. My sister, who recently lost her husband, keeps talking to me about my ex-husband, saying how good-looking he was. It makes me sick.
I loved my husband when I left him, but I could never forgive him. I wish I had said something to him when he was alive, but it’s too late. Every time my sister speaks of him, I get so upset. I want to confront her about it but fear it would do more harm than good. His death has turned my world upside down. I am so confused.
HURT IN THE EAST
DEAR HURT: You SHOULD have told your ex the reason you left before you did it. I can’t imagine why you stayed silent.
While some couples manage to move beyond infidelity, many do not, and you had a valid reason for divorcing him. The next time your sister starts talking about how good-looking your ex was, do something you should have done decades ago.
Tell her you have known for 30 years how attractive she found him because you walked in on them in flagrante, which is why you walked OUT.
I see nothing to be gained by not speaking up at this point, except more pain and turmoil for yourself.
DEAR ABBY: Three decades ago, my husband and I were a military couple stationed overseas to a remote assignment. I was raped by a fellow officer, but I was too frightened to report it. I became pregnant, and to this day, I cannot truthfully say whether my child is my husband’s or a consequence of the rape.
I greatly love my precious son, but I have looked at him for 33 years praying he is the son of my wonderful husband. I finally shared the stress of my secret with a military doctor 10 years ago and was greatly helped by his response. Until now.
My son is interested in DNA tests, and I am terrified my secret will be exposed. I am unwilling to share this with my husband or my son. I don’t want my life to fall apart as I enter my 70th year and 37th year of marriage. Please advise.
ANONYMOUS WIFE AND MOTHER
DEAR ANONYMOUS: Ask your current physician for a confidential referral to a doctor with a specialty in DNA paternity. Consult the person, explain the circumstances and ask if it would be possible to submit samples of your husband’s and your son’s DNA for examination. Getting DNA can be as simple as collecting a toothbrush or an eating utensil the person has used.
If it turns out that your son is not your husband’s, I’m advising that you tell them both about what happened to you so they won’t wrongly conclude that you were unfaithful. What happened to you was not your fault.
***
To receive a collection of Abby’s most memorable — and most frequently requested — poems and essays, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby — Keepers Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.
At banquet, Chamber names scholarship recipients
Tue, 06/17/2025 - 9:40am
BILL DECKER
PATTERSON — It was all lined up in front of the Patterson Area Civic Center stage: tents, fishing equipment, barbecue grills, glassware, tickets for vacation trips and much more.
Not long after, St. Mary high school students were lined up there. They are the recipients of the St. Mary Chamber of Commerce Charles Roe Scholarship program, which the Chamber Education Banquet’s silent and live auctions of donated treasures support financially.
“Tonight we celebrate not just your academic accomplishments, but your drive, your character and your promise,” Chamber President Beth Chiasson told the scholarship recipients. “You represent the best of what our community stands for, and you carry forward a legacy that we are incredibly proud to support.”
The scholarships were presented by Chamber Board Chairman Brady Borel, Vice Chairman Holden Murry and Chiasson. The recipients are:
•Bryan Cordero of Central Catholic High.
•Isabella Spitale of Berwick High.
•Jace Cooks of Centerville High.
•Kailey Benjamin of Patterson High.
•Kelsy August of West St. Mary High.
•Nathan Curry of Hanson Memorial High.
•Sherley Deleon of Morgan City High.
•Da’ Jah Boutte of Franklin High.
The Chamber also awards a scholarship to South Louisiana Community College.
Deleon was recognized as the Chamber’s High School Student of the Year.
Also honored Thursday were:
•Parish Elementary School Teacher of the Year Nicole Boudreaux of Hattie Watts Elementary.
•Parish High School Teacher of the Year Tina Johnson of Patterson High.
•Parish Junior High Teacher of the Year Kelly Sumrall of Berwick Junior High.
•Parish Principal of the Year Debbie Domangue of Berwick Elementary.
“The key you received tonight is a symbol,” Chiasson told the scholarship recipients. “It’s not a token or a keepsake. It represents an open door and a standing invitation.
“It’s a reminder that no matter where you go or how far you travel, you always have a key to come home.”
St. Mary custodian wins support personnel award
Tue, 06/17/2025 - 9:37am
Staff Report
The St. Mary Parish School Board on Thursday welcomed three administrators to new posts and praised the state’s Outstanding Support Personnel of the Year winner.
That would be Donella Wagner, the head custodian at Raintree Elementary in Baldwin.
“Her work goes even far beyond her work as head custodian,” Human Resources Director Kristina Estay told the board.
In addition to keeping the school clean and her 24 years with the school system, Wagner is the go-to expert for popcorn and slushes for special school events, and for decorating the school.
She also organizes the uniform closet “to make sure kids have them when they need it,” Estay said.
Wagner was chosen from among 10 finalists from across the state, three of whom do custodial work.
Assuming new positions for the school system are:
•Alicia Morris is the human resources manager, a newly created post.
Morris joined the school system in 2014 and has held a variety of roles: pre-K paraprofessional, clerk typist and human resources administrative assistant.
She plays “a key part in maintaining teacher certifications, managing personnel processes and supporting administration of HR systems,” the system said in a Facebook post.
Morris has a bachelor’s degree in human resource management.
•Kendra Thomas has been named assistant principal at Raintree Elementary.
Thomas holds a master’s degree in educational leadership.
She has completed her 30-plus hours at Nicholls State to become a reading specialist.
She has worked for the school system for 22 years, serving as elementary teacher, librarian and dean of students at LaGrange Elementary.
She recently completed the Louisiana Department of Education Aspiring Principal Fellowship.
•Sarah Olivier is the new dean of students at LaGrange Elementary.
Olivier has a master’s degree in educational leadership from UL Lafayette.
She has taught middle and high school English, served as district literacy coach and worked as an elementary master teacher.
She most recently served as the secondary ELA specialist for St. Mary public schools.
CAROLYN 'SKINNY' CARROW MURTAGH
Tue, 06/17/2025 - 9:34am
Carolyn Murtagh, 90, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025, after a very brief illness to rejoin her husband Jimmy on their 66th wedding anniversary. She was surrounded by her six children.
Carolyn was born in Kingsville, Texas, on April 24, 1935, and raised in Port Allen, Louisiana. She proudly supported her husband through medical school and his time in the Air Force. After her first stint as a military wife, Carolyn settled with Jimmy in Morgan City to raise their six children. Her greatest vocations were wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was happiest when family and friends gathered together filled with love and laughter. Sunday dinner of roast, rice and gravy was a family standard ritual. She will be most remembered for her devout faith and devotion to family, her smile and contagious laugh. Just one short month before her passing, Carolyn was still living an active, independent life in Baton Rouge watching the LSU Tigers make their way to the College World Series.
She is survived by loving children Nannette (Johnny Morgan), Yvette, Tobin (Michelle Arcidiacono), Bobette (Joel Robideaux), Albin (Kristi) and Mynette (Jimmy Mann); grandchildren Zachary Morgan, Christian Roubique, Sydney Torres, Symone Goodman (Garret), Thomas Torres, Lauren Arcidiacono, Anthony Arcidiacono, Dylan (Rachael) Robideaux, Brennan (Corinne) Robideaux, Luke (Katelyn) Robideaux, Mason Murtagh and Elouise Randall; five great-grandchildren and one on the way.
Carolyn is preceded in death by her loving husband, James “Jimmy” Murtagh, MD, and her parents, Carroll “Shorty” Carrow and Alma Sikes Carrow.
The family gives special thanks to Heart of Hospice Lafayette and loving caregivers Lacey Meyers and Crystal Richard.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Family Church in Port Allen, Sacred Heart Church in Baton Rouge, St. Jude Children’s Hospital or a charity of your choice.
A celebration of her life will be on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Brusly. The family will welcome friends from 8 to 10 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian Burial celebrated by Rev. Jerry Martin and entombment in the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Mausoleum.
Please share memories at www.wilbertservices.com.
E.J. DeROUEN SR.
Tue, 06/17/2025 - 9:33am
E.J. DeRouen Sr., 93, a native of New Iberia and resident of Franklin, died May 27, 2025.
He is survived by his wife, Shirley DeRouen; sons, E.J. DeRouen Jr. and Markam DeRouen Sr.; daughter, Melyssa DeRouen; 10 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son.
Memorial visitation will be Saturday, July 26, 1-3 p.m., at Bayou Vista Community Center.
Hargrave Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
SANDRA KAY BERGERON
Tue, 06/17/2025 - 9:32am
Sandra Kay Bergeron, 81, a native of Krotz Springs and resident of Berwick, died Friday, June 13, 2025.
She is survived by three children, Terri Sons, Valerie Bergeron and Jamie Toups; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and three siblings.
Private services will be held at a later date.
Hargrave Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.