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Morgan City police radio logs for March 6-12

Mon, 03/10/2025 - 10:01am

The following are the radio dispatch logs from the Morgan City Police Department. To report unlawful or suspicious activity, call the Police Department at 985-380-4605.
Thursday, March 6
4:46 a.m. 500 block of Roderick Street; Complaint.
7:06 a.m. First/Everett streets; Complaint.
11:17 a.m. Redwood/Bernice streets; Utilities.
12:03 p.m. 3200 block of Roselawn Drive; Alarm.
12:46 p.m. Railroad/Federal avenues; Crash.
2:35 p.m. 900 block of Spruce Street; Disturbance.
3:20 p.m. La. 70; Assistance.
3:23 p.m. Avoca Island; Welfare concern.
3:50 p.m. Chennault Street; Patrol.
4:56 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Arrest.
5:05 p.m. Second Street/Brashear Avenue; Juvenile complaint.
5:26 p.m. 500 block of Egle Street; Medical.
7:08 p.m. Federal Avenue; Suspicious subject.
7:23 p.m. 1400 block of Railroad Avenue; Medical.
7:27 p.m. 6400 block of La. 182; Complaint.
7:48 p.m. 400 block of Lawrence Street; Stand by.
9:28 p.m. 900 block of Seventh Street; Suspicious subject.
9:39 p.m. Eighth Street; Suspicious subject.
9:51 p.m. 2300 block of Clements Street; Complaint.
9:59 p.m. 600 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Reckless operation.
10:24 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Welfare concern.
Friday, March 7
1:03 a.m. 2000 block of Keith Street; Medical.
1:09 a.m. Victor II Boulevard/David Drive; Arrest.
1:50 a.m. 1100 block of Marguerite; Complaint.
3:22 a.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Loud music.
5:32 a.m. 6300 block of La. 182; Suspicious subject.
6:50 a.m. 200 block of Mallard Street; Theft.
8:19 a.m. 300 block of Oriole Street; Juvenile problems.
9:10 a.m. 900 block of Marguerite Street; Medical.
9:18 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Arrest.
10:02 a.m. 400 block of Brashear Avenue; Assistance.
10:05 a.m. La. 182/Everett Street; Warrant.
10:53 a.m. 300 block of Egle Street; Juvenile problems.
11:30 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Disturbance.
1:46 p.m. 700 block of David Drive; Simple battery.
2:36 p.m. 7500 block of La. 182; Complaint.
2:44 p.m. Maple Street; Disturbance.
3:04 p.m. Youngs Road; Suspicious subject.
3:27 p.m. 500 block of Orange Street; Theft.
3:30 p.m. 100 block of Chennault Street; Animal complaint.
3:52 p.m. 1100 block of Fourth Street; Intel.
4:57 p.m. Shannon/Egle streets; Traffic incident.
5:13 p.m. 300 block of Brashear Avenue; Disturbance.
5:45 p.m. 1400 block of North First Street; Animal complaint.
6:06 p.m. 1500 block of North Third Street; Alarm.
6:19 p.m. 300 block of Third Street; Medical.
7:01 p.m. 1400 block of North Third Street; Medical.
8:09 p.m. 700 block of General Hodges Street; Disturbance.
10:31 p.m. 1400 block of Railroad Avenue; Medical.
11:08 p.m. 1400 block of Second Street; Complaint.
11:13 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
Saturday, March 8
12:49 a.m. 700 block of David Drive; Complaint.
4:49 a.m. 700 block of Belanger Street; Medical.
6:49 a.m. U.S. 90 East/Bridge; Stalled vehicle.
8:17 a.m. 100 block of Dugas Street; Animal complaint.
9:36 a.m. 300 block of Federal Avenue; Animal complaint.
10:58 a.m. 800 block of Brashear Avenue; Welfare concern.
11:41 a.m. 700 block of Sixth Street; Disturbance.
11:55 a.m. 100 block of Mallard Street; Animal complaint.
12:24 p.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Warrant.
1:09 p.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
1:25 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Medical.
1:29 p.m. La. 70/U.S. 90 Junction; Vehicle accident.
1:33 p.m. 700 block of David Drive; Medical.
1:35 p.m. 200 block of Third Street; 911 hang up.
2:01 p.m. 200 block of Franklin Street; Telephone harassment.
2:10 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Medical.
2:33 p.m. 200 block of Franklin Street; Loud music.
2:36 p.m. 7500 block of La. 182; Welfare concern.
2:45 p.m. 200 block of Mallard Street; Assistance.
4:48 p.m. Ditch Avenue/Headland Street; Suspicious subject.
5:51 p.m. 900 block of Youngs Road; Alarm.
8:09 p.m. Fourth/Freret streets; Suspicious person/vehicle.
8:48 p.m. 1000 block of Spruce Street; Medical.
9:34 p.m. Second Street/Brashear Avenue; Suspicious person/vehicle.
10:12 p.m. Fourth/Barrow streets; Loud music.
10:48 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Alarm.
11:43 p.m. 500 block of Aucoin Street; Disturbance.
Sunday, March 9
12:15 a.m. 1200 block of Brashear Avenue; Alarm.
3:26 a.m. 500 block of Bowman Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
6:22 a.m. 100 block of Wren Street; Medical.
7:12 a.m. 600 block of Belanger Street; Disturbance.
7:23 a.m. U.S. 90 East/Bridge; Disturbance.
9:07 a.m. 7700 block of La. 182; Remove subject.
9:41 a.m. 700 block of David Drive; Complaint.
10:29 a.m. Federal Avenue/Freret Street; Assistance.
10:32 a.m. 1100 block of Victor II Boulevard; Alarm.
11:17 a.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Suspicious subject.
12:56 p.m. 700 block of Florence Street; Disturbance.
1:26 p.m. U.S. 90 West/Bridge; Traffic incident.
2 p.m. 300 block of Leona Street; Juvenile problems.
2:23 p.m. 400 block of Belanger Street; Animal complaint.
3:02 p.m. 400 block of Laurel Street; Medical.
3:20 p.m. 3200 block of Wytchwood Drive; Animal complaint.
4:08 p.m. 500 block of Aucoin Street; Disturbance.
4:53 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Alarm.
5:30 p.m. La. 182/Roderick Street; Traffic signals.
6:59 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
7:12 p.m. 700 block of David Drive; Complaint.
10:01 p.m. 1400 block of Railroad Avenue; Complaint.
11:09 p.m. 1400 block of Railroad Avenue; Medical.
11:25 p.m. 2400 block of Sixth Street; Complaint.
11:30 p.m. 300 block of Glenwood Street; Medical.
Monday, March 10
1:35 a.m. 600 block of General Patton Street; Juvenile problem.
2:59 a.m. 900 block of Cottonwood Street; Medical.

Public notices for March 7, 2025

Sat, 03/08/2025 - 6:00am

PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Wards 5 & 8 Joint Sewer Commission
P. O. Box 181
Berwick, La 70342
MINUTES
February 3, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Mr. Stewart at 6:00 PM.
Mr. Cooper ask-ed if anyone had a public comment. No comments made.
Present: Michael Stewart, Karen Sehon, Tim Kyle, Brandon Monceaux, Marcey Carmouche, Calvin Sanders Sr., Matthew Kidder, Pam Fromenthal (Fromenthal Plumbing), David Hill (Parish Councilperson), Hannah Orgeron, Murtada Mousa (Providence Engineering), and Chris Cooper.
The board went over the minutes of the previous month’s meeting. Mr. Stewart moved to disburse the reading of the minutes and accept. Mr. Kyle seconded the motion. All in favor – I.
The board then went over the treasurer’s report. Mr. Stewart motioned to approve the treasurer’s report and sign checks if all are in order. Mr. Monceaux seconded the motion. All in favor – I.
Mrs. Orgeron, with Providence Engineering, previously spoke with Mr. Carmouche and Mrs. Kirkland to gather the information needed to complete the RMP for May 2025. In the past 5 years, Mrs. Kirkland has worked at DEQ. She is now an employee of Providence. She will be working together with Mrs. Orgeron and Mr. Carmouche to get the MWPP completed. Mrs. Orgeron and Mr. Carmouche are currently working on it.
Mr. Mousa proposed a proposal from Beton LLC. to be reviewed and signed by the board. Once ready, he will start the procurement process. Plans have been listed with LDH. He stated from the engineer’s standpoint just needs the ap- proval. Mr. Mousa will send contact information for the pump/vacuum service. The board approves the proposal from Beton LLC. This station has a smaller basin $249,000 for labor with $31,000 for material. Mr. Cooper agrees with the proposal. Mr. Monceaux mo- tioned to approve and sign the proposal as written. Mr. Kyle seconded the motion. All in favor – I.
Mr. Sanders reported the monthly maintenance for the month. On January 17th, he dropped off the plant generator and two pumps at Quality Diesel to be inspected for repairs. He will be sending two more this week. Mr. Cooper stated that there are two currently ready to be picked up from Quality Diesel. They will need to be dropped off to Power Specialties to be inspected. The generator is in terrible shape. The wiring is mangled and patched. It runs hot. It will be $29,000 approximately to repair without the electrical. United Rentals has used ones for sale. They range from $35,000 - $40,000 range. Mr. Stewart suggested scraping it and investigating new ones. We should have more information next meeting. They are waiting for words from us on the Detroit engine. We will discuss it at the next meeting. The backflow preventor is in process of being installed. Robicheaux is installing them. Mr. Carmouche has spoken with them to get pricing for what they are looking for. Mr. Cooper proposed to hook up the city water line. Then replace the bathroom equipment and clean up the bathroom. Get an estimate to hook up etc. They have been working on the punch list. It is about 50% completed.
Old/New business – There was one tree cutting quote submitted at this time. Mr. Stewart wants to make sure it is not anything ethical due to a family member working at the tree cutting company. Since he is only an employee, there is no issue with using the company. Mr. Carmouche will call to get a couple more quotes.
Mr. Stewart mo- tioned to increase Mrs. Sehon pay to $775/month. Mr. Cooper, other entities have multiple people doing the job that Mrs. Sehon manages alone. With that being said, she should have a higher range of pay. Mr. Kyle agreed. Mr. Stewart motioned to increase Mrs. Sehon’s pay to $900/month. Mr. Monceaux seconded the motion. All in favor – I. Pay raise effective today.
Mr. Carmouche has one quote in hand for a trailer. He will get another quote for one with brakes. It will be an agenda for the next meeting.
Mr. Cooper ask-ed about the old surplus. Most will be sold as scrap due to no value. There are two trucks, one tractor, one mower, one trailer, and some scrap iron. Mr. Monceaux motion-ed it to be deemed as surplus. Mr. Stewart seconded the motion. Mr. Carmouche will mark scraps and get a list to Mrs. Sehon for the items to be published/advertised for bids. The items will be run in an ad for 2 weeks in paper. If there are no bids, at that time they can be taken to the scrap yard.
Mr. Carmouche and Mr. Beadle met with MR. Mousa a while ago. Sewer lift station #2 – is there any sources for funds. With our agreement, he can schedule an ap- pointment to bring to station 2. Secondly, there are issues with the force main at the plant. This needs to be evaluated. That would be Berwick Pond, it is currently not dry enough to inspect. Mr. Carmouche will call Mr. Mousa when it is dry enough to look at to be evaluated.
Next meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 3, 2024.
Having no further business, Mr. Kyle has motioned to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Monceaux seconded the motion.
———————
Chairperson
———————
Secretary/
Treasurer
Adv. March 7, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Planning Commission will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, March 17, 2025 AT 5:45 P.M. in the Parish Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana, for the following purposes:
REZONE REQUEST:
Rezoning of property by Randy Tisdale Jr. from Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN3) Zoned District located at 1516 Lake Palourde Rd., Amelia, LA – Sec.14 T16S R13E; - Parcel Id# 3524261147.00- Lot Bd Self - Bayou Boeuf - Galliano - Montet & Boudreaux Acq 464 345043.
All persons are invited to this meeting to submit their approval or objections to the above Rezone Request.
St. Mary Parish Planning & Zoning Commission
Barry Druilhet,
Chairman
Adv. Feb. 28, March 7 and 14, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Planning Commission will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, March 17, 2025 AT 5:45 P.M. in the Parish Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana, for the following purposes:
REZONE REQUEST:
Rezoning of property by Randy Tisdale Jr. from Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District located at 1516 Lake Palourde Rd., Amelia, LA – Sec.14 T16S R13E; - Parcel Id# 3524261146.00- Lot Por Bd Self - Bayou Boeuf - Self - Shell Rd Acq 464 345043 Improvement on the land of T & S Rentals LLC Acq 464 345043.
All persons are invited to this meeting to submit their approval or objections to the above Rezone Re- quest.
St. Mary Parish Planning & Zoning Commission
Barry Druilhet,
Chairman
Adv. Feb. 28, March 7 and 14, 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, togetherwith 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 9th day of April A.D., 2025, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Tuesday, the 18th day of February A.D., 2025
GARY L. DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. March 7 and April 2, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
UMB Bank, National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity, But Solely As Legal Title Trustee For PRL Title Trust II
Vs. No. 138521 Div “A”
Frankie Wilson Smith A/K/A Frankie W. Smith A/K/A Frankie Smith
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 property, to-wit: That certain tract or parcel of land lying and being located in the Town of Patterson, Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana and being more fully described as follows: On its front or south measuring and containing sixty-five (65) feet running in an easterly or westerly manner being bounded on its east line or border by Plum Street running in a vertical line measuring one hundred sixty-one (161) feet and being bounded by property be- longing to B. Watson on the rear or north boundary running in a slightly diversion line to Plum Street bounded by property belonging to Louise Wilson et al measuring an containing sixty-one point eight (61.8) feet on its west line or border running in a slightly diverging vertical line measuring one hundred fifty (150) feet being bounded by what is known as Hecter Street.
to satisfy the sum of SIXTEEN THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED TWENTY FOUR AND 29/100 ($16,224.29) DOLLARS, balance due of principal of note, interest from October 14, 2022, until paid, at 9.816% per annum, reasonable attorney’s fees to be computed 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 WITHOUT 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 9th day of April A.D., 2025, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Tuesday, the 18th day of February A.D., 2025
GARY L. DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. March 7 and April 2, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
HEBERT
RENTALS
PHONE:
985-395-2055
STORAGE SHEDS & RENTAL HOMES
In accordance with the provisions of the Laws of the State of Louisiana for the purpose of satisfying the lean of the undersigned for charges incurred for storage des-cribed below, no- tice is hereby given that such property will be sold at public auction by Hebert Rentals at its storage facilities at: 1306 Belleview Street, Bayou Vista, LA
The auction will start at 1306 Belleview St. Bayou Vista LA 70380 on March 17, 2024 at 10AM.
The following includes a general description of the property and unit number:
BAYOU VISTA – BELLEVIEW
Destiny Dinger
Misc, Personal, Household Items, Boxes, Bags, etc.
Unit 5 BEL
Adrian Johnson
Misc, Personal, Household Items, Boxes, Bags, etc.
Unit 10 BEL
Charles Jones
Misc, Personal, Household Items, Boxes, Bags, etc.
Unit 62 BEL
The undersigned reserves the right to bid on the property. Sale subject to prior cancellation in the event that the storage fees are paid by the occupant prior to the sale. Reservations are re- quired.
Patrick J. Hebert @ Hebert Rentals 985-395-2055
Adv. March 7, 2025

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John K. Flores: Why no ducks?

Fri, 03/07/2025 - 6:00am
JOHN K. FLORES

For the past several weeks, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries issued their notice of intent and subsequently adopted the 2025-26 hunting season dates and regulations. Though the annual ritual receives public input, by and large, the vast majority of hunters pay little attention to the process. There is one exception, waterfowl hunters.
Waterfowl hunters from the last day of the season until the beginning of the next season gobble up every piece of information that pertains to duck breeding populations and potential fall flights. What’s more, they typically have a lot to say, both good and bad, when it comes to management of waterfowl.
For the past 28 seasons, Mississippi Flyway hunters have enjoyed liberal 60-day duck seasons with six duck limits. To the layperson, things may appear to be going well for duck populations. After all, for nearly three decades there has been little to no changes in the season framework set by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, who in 1995 officially adopted a method of managing waterfowl called Adaptive Harvest Management.
AHM utilizes scientific data that includes breeding population surveys across the U.S. and Canada, pond and habitat survey data on the breeding grounds, harvest rates, and other environmental inputs to create a model that helps managers make harvest decisions.
Each year in late July and early August, the USF&WS releases its annual “Waterfowl Breeding Population and Habitat Survey.” This past year’s survey estimated a breeding population of 33.99 million ducks across the U.S. and Canada. This number reflects a steady decline in the past decade, where the 2014 “BPOP” survey revealed a breeding population of 49.15 million ducks.
It’s important to note that the breeding population doesn’t reflect what the fall flight will be.
The LDWF conducts aerial surveys each month throughout the hunting season that provides biologists critical migration and winter population estimates. November 2024’s 510,000 aerial estimate for the coastal and Little River Basin ducks was the lowest “ever” on record, which was lower than November 2023’s lowest ever estimate.
December 2024’s aerial estimate of 1.56 million was 83% higher than 2023’s lowest on record, but still a whopping 29% lower than the survey’s 10-year average.
Finally, it took frigid weather that brought snow to Louisiana’s gulf coast to see duck numbers increase in January to the tune of 2.25 million. However, this number is still 24% below the long-term average for ducks in the state. Moreover, the 17,000 mallards counted during the aerial survey was a record low.
All of these statistics are only to point out that the significant decline in duck numbers, based upon a variety of solid data, is clearly impacting waterfowl hunter’s bag limits and therefore perceptions of how ducks are being managed across the landscape.
So, why no ducks? Retired USF&WS Biologist Paul Yakupzack, in his manifesto, “The Duck Demise,” says it could be the data AHM models are using.
Yakupzack, who prior to retirement managed Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge near Houma, said, “The Fish and Wildlife Service breeding population survey is the cornerstone for managing duck populations in North America and has been since 1955. The BPOP models assume a 50-50 male to female mallard sex ratio when estimating the mallard breeding population.”
“However,” Yakupzack continued, “recent research has concluded that the mallard sex ratio is closer to 80-20 males to females, thus significantly overestimating the mallard population.”
All biologists agree that the loss of wetland habitat is the number one reason for a decline in waterfowl populations. What’s more, the loss of habitat is inversely proportional to the increase in corn production for the purpose of producing ethanol.
It’s hard to tell a farmer in the prairie pothole region of the upper Midwest who is trying to make a living to change his agricultural practices of draining and tiling acreage for the sake of ducks.
The price for a bushel of corn far exceeds the Conservation Reserve Program monies he gets to enroll his property in the program. For years this has been discussed ad nauseam.
Yakupzack said, “The BPOP survey also estimates the number of May ponds each year as an index of the number of wetlands used by ducks for breeding. In the early days of the BPOP, a May pond was a pothole surrounded by vegetation where hen ducks nested and produced young ducks largely hidden from marauding predators. Fast forward to current May ponds and many are drained grassless wet spots in agricultural fields that are absolutely worthless to nesting ducks.”
Yakupzack went on to say that because of the protocols set in place since the initiation of the BPOP in the 1950s, the drained and useless wet spots he refers to are still counted as May ponds even though they have little to no value to nesting ducks. He concludes that the yearly overestimating of mallard populations and May pond data has led to false conclusions that North American duck populations are more robust than actually exist.
To a lesser degree, there are other things impacting duck populations, hunting pressure being one. Mechanical devices like Mojo spinning wing decoys are known to dupe immature ducks.
Cell phones not only have apps that can put you on the “X,” they also allow hunters to communicate who is doing what in the field and where.
Surface drive boats allow hunters to get to where the ducks are, sometimes pressuring them out of rest areas. The improvement in shotguns, barrel chokes, and shotshells over the past couple of decades have increased hunter lethality.
Yakupzack said, “The Fish and Wildlife Service, along with the flyway councils, have yet to acknowledge the facts and continue to set season length and bag limits based on faulty survey results through Adaptive Harvest Management models and matrices. The same 60-day season and 6 duck bag limits has been in place for 28 years despite faulty survey estimates.”
Yakupzack went on to say, “Although the primary historic driver of duck population decline is likely loss of habitat, continued liberal duck regulations based on faulty population data and wetlands data is likely adding to decimated duck populations across North America.”
Louisiana’s annual duck harvest from 1999 to 2022 went from 1.9 million ducks to 544,000. Louisiana’s mallard harvest over the same period went from 430,000 in 1999 to under 25,000 in 2022.
Most waterfowl hunters in Louisiana and Arkansas, with a few exceptions, agree the 2024-25 duck season was not good.
This past winter I went to Oklahoma to hunt ducks for a couple days, particularly with mallards in mind. In two days of hunting, four of us killed eight ducks total, four of which were pretty red-legged mallards.
The outfitter felt bad for us because we traveled so far to shoot a handful of ducks. So much so, he gave us half of our money back.
It will take a lot of voices to get the USF&WS to change the way they manage ducks. The issue is complex and trying to get the Federal Government to change is often next to impossible.
The good news is, the duck demise isn’t a Blue State-Red State, issue. Contact your Congressman and Senators and let them know your concern.
John Flores is the Morgan City Review’s outdoor writer. He can be contacted at gowiththeflo@cox.net.

Wheel House for March 7

Fri, 03/07/2025 - 6:00am

ST. JOSEPH
ALTAR
At St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1011 First St., Patterson. The altar will be blessed at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 18. Festivities are planned for Wednesday, March 19, when the opening with Mass by Bishop J. Douglas Deshotel will be at 9 a.m., the procession of the saints for the meal will be 10-11 a.m., and the meal will be 11 a.m.-2 p.m. or until the food has been served. Viewing of the altar will continue until 4 p.m. Any remaining cakes and cookies will be donated to the needy in keeping with the spirit of the St. Joseph Altar.

BASEBALL,
SOFTBALL
Registration at Amelia Rec Center. Deadline March 21. Groups: T-ball 4- to 6-year-olds, boys baseball 7-12, girls softball 7-8. Registration at 2109 Duhon Blvd., Amelia, 985-631-2032. Assistants and volunteers needed.

Jeremy Alford and David Jacobs: Education committees target truancy, student retention

Fri, 03/07/2025 - 6:00am
JEREMY ALFORD AND DAVID JACOBS

Last year, the Education committees were in the spotlight as they created the expansion of the state’s school voucher program that’s now known as LA GATOR. 
Gov. Jeff Landry has requested $50 million in this year’s executive budget for the program, which is scheduled to begin taking applications March 1. 
Members also did work related to literacy, numeracy and the Let Teachers Teach program, House Education Chair Laurie Schlegel said. 
In this year’s fiscal-focused session, they probably won’t have as much to do as in 2024. But they want to ensure what they did last year is getting implemented and funded, with an eye toward potential tweaks if warranted. 
“In terms of big-ticket items, I think a lot of that happened last session,” Schlegel said. “I do think there will probably be some building upon that.”
Senate Education Chair Rick Edmonds plans to put a lot of focus on addressing truancy. He wasn’t ready to share details this week, but suggests he will take a hard look at strategies that have worked in other states.
Chronic absenteeism surged nationwide after the pandemic. But while some parts of the country saw a decline, the rate in Louisiana continued to rise. 
“We can’t raise the standard of education if we can’t get them in the classroom,” Edmonds said.
He also expects to see legislation related to school safety, which could involve school facilities design. 
Schlegel and Edmonds both mentioned efforts to keep more students in Louisiana. Edmonds said he is working with higher education officials to help students in high school identify a career path that leads to a good job in Louisiana. 
Schlegel said trends in the TOPS scholarship program indicate the number of students accepting a TOPS award from a Louisiana school has declined. 
“I know that there’s a great concern with us losing our highest-performing high school students to out-of-state schools,” she said. 
Schlegel expects to see a focus on ways to keep more students in state, as well as lure students currently studying outside the state back to Louisiana if they choose to pursue graduate degrees. 
In the education world, all eyes for now are on Amendment 2, which would lock in the stipends that educators have been getting in recent years as part of their permanent salary. Schlegel said she hopes it passes, but if it doesn’t, lawmakers should look at doing another stipend.
“I guess we’ll see come the end of March,” she said.
For more Louisiana political news, visit www. LaPolitics.com or follow Alford on X @ LaPoliticsNow.

Pet Talk: Bulldogs have unique health challenges

Fri, 03/07/2025 - 6:00am

Bulldogs, with their trademark wrinkled faces and charming personalities, are among the top 10 most beloved dog breeds in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club. Yet, bulldogs also come with some special health challenges that potential and current owners should be aware of to provide their dogs with the best life possible.
Dr. Erin Ray, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, shares insights into bulldog health and how owners can help their pets overcome the challenges faced by this beloved breed.
One of the defining features of bulldogs is their short, squished noses — a charming trait that, unfortunately, contributes to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. This condition restricts airflow and makes it harder for bulldogs to breathe, especially during physical activity. 
BOAS is also linked to bulldogs’ narrow nostrils, a long soft palate that can block the windpipe, tissue folds in the throat that can limit airflow, and a smaller-than-usual windpipe. While these traits contribute to their loved appearance, they can make even simple activities a struggle for these dogs. 
To help manage these challenges, early surgical interventions, such as widening the nostrils or reducing excess tissue in the roof of the mouth, can significantly improve bulldogs’ breathing and prevent severe respiratory complications. Beyond surgical options, keeping bulldogs cool and carefully monitoring their activity levels is essential. 
“Exercise is important, but these breeds are prone to overheating,” Ray said.
Owners should watch for warning signs of respiratory distress, such as heavy panting, stretching their necks to breathe easier, or, in severe cases, fainting or developing a bluish tint to their skin or gums. 
“These are signs of airway issues that are important for owners to recognize,” Ray said. “If any of these symptoms appear, a veterinarian should be consulted.” 
Most bulldogs — including French bulldogs, English bulldogs and bullmastiffs — are prone to allergy-induced skin diseases, which require attentive care. 
Their characteristic skin folds tend to trap moisture and germs, often leading to irritation, inflammation and infections. Additionally, their short coats provide less protection, leaving them more vulnerable to allergens and irritants. 
These skin sensitivities often extend to their ears, also increasing the risk of chronic ear infections. 
To help prevent these issues, owners should regularly clean both skin folds and ears as well as monitor for redness or odors. These consistent cleaning routines may occasionally be supplemented with prescribed treatments to maintain healthy skin and ears, when necessary. 
Bulldogs also face an increased risk of certain skin cancers, such as mast cell tumors, though veterinarians are not entirely sure why.
Dental care is vital for bulldogs because of their mouth structure. Typically having an underbite and tightly spaced teeth, they’re prone to plaque buildup and gum issues. Regular dental care, including cleanings and dental-friendly toys, can maintain their oral health and prevent complications. 
Eye health is another important area for bulldogs and similar breeds. 
“Some bulldogs — such as French bulldogs and English bulldogs — are at risk of a prolapsed third eyelid, where the tear gland becomes red and inflamed,” Ray said. “Many are also prone to glaucoma, a condition of increased eye pressure that, if untreated, may lead to vision loss.”
Bullmastiffs, on the other hand, are commonly affected by entropion, a condition where the eyelids roll inward, irritating the eyes. In severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary. 
For all of these conditions, it’s important that owners watch out for eye abnormalities and seek veterinary care as soon as they are noticed.
Finally, bulldogs’ body structure and genetics put them at high risk for joint issues. These dogs’ compact, muscular build, relatively short legs and wide stance, while adored, place extra stress on their joints, especially as they age or gain weight.
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed at vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk. Suggestions for future topics may be directed to vmbs-editor@tamu.edu.

Dear Abby: Mental health struggle takes toll on long marriage

Fri, 03/07/2025 - 6:00am

DEAR ABBY: I have been married for 47 years. My wife has suffered from mental illness for more than half our marriage. Two years ago, she went off her medication, became manic for 10 months and was hospitalized four times. A few months later, it was discovered she had breast cancer. Fortunately, it was detected early. After surgery and radiation, she is cancer-free. I stuck with her through all that.
During her manic period, her actions toward me were just too much. I can never love her again or want her as my wife. She has taken up cigar smoking, and while she doesn’t smoke in the house her clothes reek when she comes inside. I’m just her caretaker, and my life is miserable. I have worked hard and saved enough that even with half, she should be OK financially. We have three adult children.
Is it wrong that I want to get a divorce and be able to enjoy the time I have left on this planet? I fear shifting my burden to the kids. Your thoughts, please.
UNHAPPY
IN WEST VIRGINIA
DEAR UNHAPPY: After 47 years, you have taken care of your wife through thick and thin. Because you have done well enough to ensure that she would be OK financially, I see no reason why you must remain in a marriage that’s unsalvageable. You have served your time. Now consult a lawyer about the logistics.
DEAR ABBY: My brother and my husband don’t get along. Despite efforts on both sides to let go of past feelings, they can’t seem to make it work. I have a very small family, just my parents and my brother.
We recently had our first child — my parents’ first grandchild and my brother’s first nephew. My husband doesn’t feel comfortable participating in family activities that my brother will attend. It has become a problem for holiday planning.
I’m torn about how to make both parties happy. If I opt to stay home and cook, I feel like I have to exclude my brother. If I choose to go to his house, I’m essentially ditching my husband on our holiday as a family. Is there a third option?
erhaps I could cook at home and meet them later for dessert? I just want everyone to be happy, and I’m not sure how to accomplish this.
STUCK IN THE
MIDDLE IN MICHIGAN
DEAR STUCK: If your husband would be happier at home with the baby (or alone), I think your idea of joining your parents and brother for dessert is a good solution.
Rifts like these are an unfortunate fact of life in some families, and in your case, everyone would be more comfortable without the tension your husband’s presence would cause.

DEAR ABBY: I gave my stepdaughter a blank check to pay for my wife’s birthday party. She consulted me about the choice of the restaurant but did not talk to me about anything else. She had dancers and a magician plus candy and special champagne for the guests to take home. The amount was far more than I expected. Does a blank check give one the permission to spend what they want?
OFF GUARD IN CALIFORNIA

DEAR OFF GUARD: Yup. You bet it does. Rather than question your daughter’s judgment, perhaps you should question your own.

***

What teens need to know about sex, drugs, AIDS and getting along with peers and parents is in “What Every Teen Should Know.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby, Teen Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.

Morgan City police radio logs for March 5-6

Thu, 03/06/2025 - 9:13am

The following are the radio dispatch logs from the Morgan City Police Department. To report unlawful or suspicious activity, call the Police Department at 985-380-4605.
Wednesday, March 5
8:34 a.m. 900 block of Hilda Street; Medical.
9:56 a.m. Clements Street/Levee Road; Welfare concern.
10:17 a.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Simple battery.
10:40 a.m. 600 block of Onstead Street; Civil matter.
11:15 a.m. 1000 block of La. 70; Vehicle accident.
12:03 p.m. Federal/Railroad avenues; Vehicle accident.
12:37 p.m. U.S. 90 West; Reckless driver.
12:41 p.m. 500 block of Federal Avenue; Fire.
1:13 p.m. 900 block of Seventh Street; Alarm.
1:21 p.m. 1200 block of Victor II Boulevard; Complaint.
1:34 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Theft.
2:22 p.m. 600 block of Louisa Street; Telephone harassment.
2:25 p.m. Front Street Area; Welfare concern.
3:11 p.m. 200 block of Onstead Street; Vehicle burglary.
3:39 p.m. 200 block of Patton Street; Patrol request.
4:43 p.m. 1000 block of Second Street; Theft.
5:05 p.m. U.S. 90 West/Bridge; Traffic incident.
5:53 p.m. 7500 block of La. 182; Subject removal.
6:04 p.m. 400 block of Garber Street; Theft.
6:51 p.m. 1000 block of Franklin Street; Theft.
7:07 p.m. 1200 block of Front Street; Complaint.
7:28 p.m. 400 block of Louisa Street; Loud music.
7:32 p.m. 300 block of Second Street; Arrest.
7:45 p.m. 800 block of Clothilde Street; Medical.
8:22 p.m. 1100 block of Dora Street; Complaint.
9:10 p.m. 200 block of Franklin Street; Theft.
11:36 p.m. Cottonwood/Sandra streets; Suspicious subject.
Thursday, March 6
12:07 a.m. 800 block of Willard Street; Medical.
4:03 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Assistance.

ANNABELLE CHASSION

Thu, 03/06/2025 - 9:04am

Annabelle Chassion, 81, a native and resident of Morgan City, died Monday, March 3, 2025.
She is survived by her daughter, Pam Wiggins of Morgan City; sister, Evelyn Olivier; 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, three children, parents and numerous siblings.
Visitation will be Saturday from 10 a.m. until services at noon at Hargrave Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Morgan City Cemetery.
Hargrave Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

LOUIS ALCEE HEBERT JR.

Thu, 03/06/2025 - 9:01am

Louis Alcee Hebert Jr., a native and longtime resident of Morgan City, passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025 at the age of 77.
Louis was a proud veteran of the United States Navy having served in the Vietnam Conflict on the USS Ticonderoga.
Louis is survived by his wife, Carolyn Lile Hebert; his son, Louis “Al” Hebert III and his wife, Lauren; two step daughters, Cynthia Legendre and Sherry Canty; and two grandchildren, Eden Carter Brantley and Emily Carter.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Alcee Hebert Sr. and Gladys Keller Hebert Tabor; his daughter, Heidi Lynn Hebert; his step son, Russell Scott Lile and his brother, Kenneth James Hebert.
In keeping with the family’s wishes, Louis’ services will be held privately at a later date.

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