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Tax data shows La. continuing to lose residents

Tue, 07/09/2024 - 9:38am

JACOB MATHEWS, The Center Square

The latest data from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service shows Louisiana losing more than 26,000 residents during tax year 2021-2022.
Louisiana was 44th in population growth, ranking only above California, New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Maryland. The net loss accounted for 0.57% of the state’s population.
Even more residents migrated out of the Pelican State in tax year 2020-2021, a little over 28,000 in net loss.
The total population dip in Louisiana over the three years from 2019-2022 was upwards of 75,000.
Texas benefitted the most from Louisiana’s migration patterns, with over 30,000 individuals moving to the Lone Star State. A combined 50,000 individuals moved to Texas in the last two years. California was one of the few states to lose population to Louisiana, with about 600 more people moving east than left for the Golden State.
Total adjusted gross income lost in the population dip was more than $882 million which was 37th amongst states. Net loss as a percentage of total adjusted gross income was 0.8%, 41st amongst states. The total adjusted gross income loss was over $2.3 billion between 2019 and 2022.
Texas accounted for over $300 million of Louisiana’s outgoing adjusted gross income migration in 2021-2022 and Florida accounted for another $220 million. California residents leaving for Louisiana generated a net positive adjusted gross income migration of around $24 million.
Louisiana’s 44th ranking is well below its Southeast neighbors, with Mississippi being the only other state that decreased in population (512 fewer residents). Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee and South Carolina all finished in the top 10, and Florida and Texas finished in the top two.
Florida and Texas also ranked first and second in adjusted gross income, Florida gaining almost $36 billion and Texas pulling in a little over $10 billion.
California was the biggest loser according to the data, with more than 307,000 residents worth more than $23 billion in adjusted gross income leaving for other states.

State audit casts doubt on DARE effectiveness

Tue, 07/09/2024 - 9:37am

JACOB MATHEWS, The Center Square

Auditors found Louisiana’s latest Drug Abuse Resistance Education curriculum produced mixed results on effectiveness.
The Louisiana legislative auditor report detailed how the program is funded by a combination of state and local money.
The Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement awards DARE grants from its portion of the Tobacco Tax Health Care Fund to local law enforcement agencies for their programs.
Auditors also acknowledged the program has often revised its curriculums since its inception in the 1980s, the newest being called “Keepin’ it REAL” which focuses on decision-making strategies to help young people stay away from drugs.
Recent studies cited by the auditor’s office found this curriculum might not be helpful to reducing substance abuse among elementary school students and might only be appropriate for a narrow portion of DARE’s audience.
The auditors did conduct their own study in 2021-2022, and found that fifth and sixth grade students were making statistically significant improvements in their knowledge of the material found in the DARE curriculum.
However, their recommendations to DARE were mostly about keeping up to date.
This includes modernizing assessment technology and developing higher quality goals and measurable objectives. The same audit done in 2022-2023 found they had not updated these processes.
Despite the struggles with modernization, DARE grants awarded to law enforcement to conduct these programs totaled a little over $8.5 million from 2019-2023.
The highest yearly amount was back in 2019, with almost $2.1 million. The program has not granted over $1.7 million since.
By the time that money is allocated statewide, only one sheriff’s office (the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office) received more than $100,000 in fiscal year 2023.
From 2019-2023, 91% of Louisiana school districts received DARE education.
Most of those programs aimed at fifth- and sixth-graders with an average of 503 schools receiving DARE education annually.
The number of DARE officers has dropped from 240 to 175 in that timespan and the number of participating law enforcement agencies dropped from 71 to 57.

St. Mary Excel reports on second-quarter activity

Tue, 07/09/2024 - 9:35am

(Editor’s note: The St. Mary Excel citizens group submitted this report on its second-quarter activities.)

St. Mary Excel continues to implement recommendations of the Urban Land Institute panel, "Morgan City and Berwick Louisiana: Building the Foundation for a New Economy Along the Atchafalaya River."
See https://2os2f877tnl1dvtmc3wy0aq1-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wpcontent/uploa...
St Mary Excel:
—Hosted a Local Interest Group meeting on May 23. At the meeting, Laci Melancon of the Bayou Region Incubator shared how the incubator is supporting entrepreneurs andgrowing the region.
St. Mary Excel made a site visit to the incubator in Thibodaux as St. Mary Excel works to bring the concept to the local area. You can view the presentation at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeOuddEVDgQ
—Submitted a grant to fund an Urban Land Institute panel-recommended resilience lab. To develop the grant application, St. Mary Excel worked with multiple university and public stakeholders. ULI recommended that our area make “resilience a regional export.” To learn more, St. Mary Excel visited an Amelia manufacturing site for nature-based solutions.
See the second part of the Local Interest Group meeting at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=754xgpWWhNA&t=5s for the connections made and hear reports of how leaders are working together to grow the area.
—Attended a presentation by Dr. Brian Roberts of Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium to the St. Mary Parish Chamber of Commerce on May 29.
Dr. Roberts updated the community on the Atchafalaya National Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR), now part of the CPRA’s coastal master plan and with a planned facility in Morgan City. Dr. Roberts shared how NOAA and CPRA are working on the draft environmental impact statement and management plan for the ANERR.
—Submitted an Atchafalaya National Heritage Area grant application to fund highlighting neighborhood culture in the area.
—Volunteered in support of the St. Mary Parish Levee District, LA Sea Grant, the St. Mary Soil and Water Conservation District, and the National Resources Conservation Services for Morgan City High School and Patterson High School students’ field trip for marsh grass plantings along the coast at Burns Point. The trip was facilitated by the SMPSO, LDWF,Coast Guard, and Franklin/Fire EMT services.
—Continue inquiries into current awarded bike/hiking trail grants: 1) placing pedestrian head crossings on three intersections identified as dangerous; 2) and placing trails from downtown Morgan City to South Louisiana Community College.

July 11 St. Mary School Board agenda

Mon, 07/08/2024 - 8:21pm

Click on the link below to download a .pdf version of the agenda.

Domestic violence, drug, theft charges in holiday weekend arrests

Mon, 07/08/2024 - 12:30pm

Staff Report

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

Local authorities reported holiday weekend arrests on charges including domestic violence, drug possession and theft.

St. Mary deputies and Franklin police also made arrests on charges of cruelty to animals.

St. Mary

Sheriff Gary Driskell reported that over the last 120-hour reporting period, the Sheriff’s Office responded to 227 complaints and made these arrests:

--Christina Denise Trosclair, 53, Morgan City, was arrested at 7:35 p.m. Saturday on a charge of cruelty to animals.

On Friday, a deputy went to a residence on Chetta Lane after receiving information that the address was associated with subjects who dropped off a shepherd canine on Lake Palourde Road. The deputy made contact with Trosclair, who admitted that she was the one who dropped off the dog on Lake Palourde Road.

Trosclair was transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking and was subsequently released on a summons to appear in court.

---Luke Anthony Gros, 19, Franklin, was arrested at 12:42 a.m. Thursday on charges of reckless operation- (no accident), stalking and possession of marijuana. Gros was released on a $6,000 bond.

--Juvenile male, 16, Patterson, was arrested at 9:52 a.m. Thursday on charges of aggravated domestic abuse battery and damage to property with intent to defraud. The juvenile male was arrested and released into the custody of a guardian pending juvenile court proceedings.

--Ashley Marie Harris, 32, Baton Rouge, was arrested at 8:50 a.m. Thursday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of disturbing the peace (intoxicated), resisting an officer and battery of a police officer. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Raymond William Thomas, 62, Charenton, was arrested at 11:08 p.m. Thursday on charges of careless operation and driving while intoxicated. Thomas was released on a $12,000 bond.

--Leon Marcine Barnes, 49, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:38 p.m. Thursday on charges of driving while intoxicated and reckless operation (no accident). Barnes was released on a $3,000 bond.

--Mai Averianna Francis, 24, Franklin, was arrested at 11:27 p.m. Friday on charges of possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and brake lights required. Francis was released on a $3,750 bond.

--Demetrius James Green, 33, Morgan City, was arrested at 8 p.m. Sunday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a charge of battery of a dating partner. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Derek Nathaniel Gould Jr., 39, Morgan City, was arrested at 7:42 p.m. Sunday on an SMPSO warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of forgery and theft. Gould also held a Morgan City Police Department warrant alleging failure to appear for the charge of driving under suspension. Bail was set at $7,000.

--Sarah Elizabeth Bran, 38, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:08 p.m. Sunday on a charge of theft. Bran also held two MCPD warrants alleging failure to appear for the charges of shoplifting and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bail was set at $2,500.

--Virginia Ann Ripple, 37, Shelbyville, Illinois, was arrested at 5:52 p.m. Sunday on a probation violation. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Erica Rae Compton, 28, Charenton, was arrested at 6:55 p.m. Sunday on charges of driving while intoxicated, disturbing the peace- (intoxicated) and resisting arrest or officer. Bail was set at $3,500.

--Logan Renee Francois, 27, Berwick, was arrested at 9:20 p.m. Saturday on a charge of theft. Francois was released on a $1,500 bond.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that the Morgan City Police Department responded to 63 calls for service over the last 48-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Tra Andrew Acosta, 27, Railroad Avenue, Morgan City, was arrested at 5:48 p.m. July 3 on a charge of failure to appear for arraignment (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Vivian Oropesa, 39, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 7:29 p.m. July 3 on a charge of possession of marijuana. (Released on summons.)

--Nicole Percle, 48, Leona Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:47 p.m. Thursday on charges of remaining where forbidden and possession of drug paraphernalia. (Released on summons.)

--Monte Markell Simmons, 26, Freeman Street, Patterson, was arrested at 11:44 p.m. Friday on a charge of hit-and-run driving.

--Jabari Elijah Woods, 21, Garber Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 12:47 a.m. Friday on a charge of remaining where forbidden.

Berwick

Chief David Leonard reported these arrests:

--Lydia Boudreaux, 34, Berwick, was arrested at 2:24 p.m. July 3 on a charge of possession of marijuana (under 14 grams).

About 2:15 p.m. July 3, officers made contact with Boudreaux at her residence in reference to an eviction. During this time, an odor of marijuana was detected, and she admitted to having an amount inside. Officers located the narijuana, and Boudreaux was placed under arrest. She was subsequently
released on a summons to appear in court.

--Corey Blake, 25, Morgan City, was arrested at 8:21 p.m. July 3 on charges of reckless operation of a motor vehicle and no insurance.

About 8:15 p.m. July 3, officers observed a vehicle traveling in a reckless manner. A traffic stop was conducted, at which time officers made contact with Blake. During the course of the stop, it was learned that the vehicle did not have insurance.

Blake was placed under arrest and transported to the Berwick Police Department where he was booked on the above charges.

--Tiffany Duncan, 33, Breaux Bridge, was arrested at 12:54 a.m. Friday on a charge of possession of marijuana (under 14 grams).

About 12:30 a.m. Friday, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle for speeding 71 mph in a 55 mph zone. Officers made contact with Duncan and during this time, detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle was conducted and marijuana was located. Duncan was placed under arrest and released on a summons to appear in court.

Assumption

Sheriff Leland Falcon reported this arrest:

--Florian Metrejean, 53, Freret Street, Morgan City, was booked July 3 on warrants charging him with failure to appear in court in Assumption Parish to face multiple felony charges.

Metrejean was previously arrested in Assumption Parish on drug-related charges as well as aggravated flight charges. As a result of these arrests, Metrejean was ordered to appear in court on May 28 and failed to do so. \

As a result, warrants were issued for the arrest of Metrejean on May 30.

Metrejean was arrested by the Morgan City Police Department on June 29. Metrejean was released to the custody of the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office July 3.

Metrejean was booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center and ordered held without bond.

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy reported that the Franklin Police Department responded to 31 complaints over the holiday weekend and made these arrests:

--Nehemias Xol, 20, Iberia Street, Franklin, was arrested at 9:04 p.m. July 3 on charges of disturbing the peace (intoxication). Xol was booked, processed and released on a $368.00 bond.

--Travis Hill, 39, Second Street, Franklin, was arrested at 5:34 p.m. Thursday on a warrant for the Baldwin Police Department alleging cruelty to animals. Hill was additionally arrested on a charge of violation of protective order. Hill was booked, processed and held with no bond set at the time of press release.

--Brian Evans, 18, San Jacinto Circle, New Iberia, was arrested at 7:47 p.m. Thursday on charges of illegal carrying of weapons and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles. Evans was booked, processed and released on a $2,000 bond.

--Jaidyn Delasbour, 17, Loveland Street, Patterson, was arrested at 7:47 p.m. Thursday on a charge of illegal possession of a handgun by a juvenile. Delasbour was booked, processed and released on a $3,000 bond.

--Jerry Hall, 46, Shalimar Drive, New Orleans, was arrested at 12:08 a.m. Friday on a warrant for the New Orleans Police Department alleging simple assault. Hall was booked, processed and transported to the New Orleans Police Department.

--August Gloskey, 64, Darce Drive, Franklin, was arrested at 10:15 a.m. Saturday on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. Gloskey was booked, processed, and held on a $1,500 bond.

Morgan City police radio logs for July 3-8

Mon, 07/08/2024 - 10:46am

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, July 3
6:54 a.m. U.S. 90 East/High-rise; Vehicle accident.
7:27 a.m. 100 block of Mount Street; Theft.
7:47 a.m. 600 block of Brashear Avenue; Reckless driving.
8:59 a.m. 100 block of Eleventh Street; Complaint.
9:49 a.m. 1700 block of Dale Street; Theft.
9:50 a.m. 6200 block of La. 182; Theft.
10:08 a.m. 8400 block of La. 182; Lost and found property.
11:05 a.m. 600 block of Grove Street; Medical.
11:25 a.m. 600 block of Second Street; Animal complaint.
Noon 700 block of Duke Street; Theft.
1:59 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Medical.
2:22 p.m. 6800 block of La. 182; Suspicious subject.
2:31 p.m. 1500 block of North Third Street; Patrol request.
3:27 p.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Complaint.
5:47 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Arrest.
7:12 p.m. 200 block of Onstead Street; Complaint.
9:38 p.m. Louisiana Street; Loud music.
11:21 p.m. La. 70; Reckless driver.
Thursday, July 4
7:19 a.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Patrol request.
8:53 a.m. 100 block of Canary Street; Theft.
8:53 a.m. 7700 block of La. 182; Theft.
11:13 a.m. 400 block of Seventh Street; Simple battery.
11:29 a.m. 1500 block of Front Street; Criminal trespassing.
12:17 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Narco violation.
1:21 p.m. 700 block of Duke Street; Telephone harassment.
2:05 p.m. 200 block of Roderick Street; Medical.
2:24 p.m. U.S. 90 East/La. 182 Exit; Stalled vehicle.
2:43 p.m. 700 block of Belanger Street; Medical.
3:16 p.m. Apple Street/Egle Mill Lane; Fireworks.
4:03 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Fight.
4:08 p.m. Tupelo Street; Fireworks.
4:34 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Complaint.
4:41 p.m. 100 block of Poncio Street; Fireworks.
4:59 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Assistance.
5:22 p.m. 100 block of Mount Street; Fireworks.
5:31 p.m. 1200 block of David Drive; Vehicle accident.
5:51 p.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Medical.
6:22 p.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Medical.
6:50 p.m. Chennault Street; Complaint.
7 p.m. Morgan City; Fireworks.
7:18 p.m. 7500 block of La. 182; Complaint.
7:42 p.m. 100 block of Brownell; Removal of subject.
8:16 p.m. La. 70; Complaint.
8:46 p.m. 1800 block of Filmore Street; Medical.
10:24 p.m. 400 block of Sixth Street; Loud music.
10:29 p.m. 400 block of Pecos Street; 911 hang up.
11:11 p.m. 700 block of Franklin Street; Hit and run.
11:36 p.m. 600 block of Brashear Avenue; Complaint.
12:07 a.m. Onstead Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
12:43 a.m. 600 block of Brashear Avenue; Disturbance.
2:28 a.m. 600 block of Redwood Street; Alarm.
Friday, July 5
6:29 a.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Lost and found.
7:22 a.m. 300 block of Garber Street; Welfare check.
8:27 a.m. 7000 block of La. 182; Alarm.
8:33 a.m. Elk/Myrtle streets; Suspicious vehicle.
8:48 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Suspicious person.
8:58 a.m. 1300 block of Federal Avenue; Medical.
9:25 a.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Vehicle accident.
10:55 a.m. 8000 block of La. 182; Theft.
12:23 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
12:54 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Lost and found.
1:26 p.m. 700 block of Onstead Street; Disturbance.
1:38 p.m. Federal Avenue/Greenwood Street; Hit and run.
2:29 p.m. 100 block of Aycock Street; 911 hang up.
3:27 p.m. 800 block of Palm Street; Medical.
4:10 p.m. 1100 block of Spruce Street; Welfare check.
5:20 p.m. 3200 block of Susan Drive; Complaint.
5:32 p.m. U.S. 90 West; Vehicle accident.
6:06 p.m. 3100 block of Roselawn Drive; Complaint.
6:07 p.m. Sixth/Belanger streets; Animal complaint.
6:09 p.m. 900 block of Short Street; Firework.
6:30 p.m. Willow/Sixth streets; Firework.
6:42 p.m. Willard/Eighth streets; Arrest.
6:49 p.m. Federal Avenue/Lawrence Street; Firework.
6:58 p.m. Federal Avenue/Leona Street; Firework.
7:01 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Complaint.
7:15 p.m. Justa Street/Lake Palourde; Animal complaint.
7:16 p.m. 1000 block of Florence Street; 911 hang up.
7:19 p.m. U.S. 90/Martin Luther King Boulevard; Suspicious subject.
7:20 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Arrest.
7:31 p.m. 400 block of Bush Street; Animal complaint.
7:35 p.m. 7800 block of La. 182; Stalled vehicle.
7:40 p.m. 800 block of Florida Street; Two arrests.
7:44 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Complaint.
8 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Patrol.
8:20 p.m. 1100 block of Victor II Boulevard; Complaint.
9:04 p.m. 1500 block of Victor II Boulevard; Complaint.
10:24 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
11:08 p.m. 1400 block of Chestnut Drive; Assistance.
11:23 p.m. 6400 block of La. 182; Arrest.
Saturday, July 6
12:14 a.m. Veterans Boulevard; Assistance.
12:45 a.m. 200 block of Canary Street; Disturbance.
9:34 a.m. 200 block of Patton Street; Animal complaint.
11:50 a.m. U.S. 90 East; Suspicious person.
1:54 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Frequent patrols.
2:25 p.m. Bush Street; Frequent patrols.
4:14 p.m. U.S. 90 East; Suspicious person.
4:33 p.m. 500 block of Roderick Street; Welfare check.
5:09 p.m. 600 block of Marshall Street; Telephone harassment.
5:22 p.m. 800 block of Levee Road; Disturbance.
6:12 p.m. 300 block of Aycock Street; Alarm.
7:06 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Assistance.
9:47 p.m. 3500 block of La. 70; Stalled vehicle.
Sunday, July 7
12:04 a.m. 100 block of Glenwood Street; Complaint.
2:31 a.m. 900 block of Duke Street; Disturbance.
3:30 a.m. 500 block of Egle Street; Complaint.
9:29 a.m. 1200 block of Victor II Boulevard; Stalled vehicle.
10:42 a.m. 1100 block of Brashear Avenue; Medical.
11:13 a.m. La. 182; Assistance.
11:31 a.m. 7900 block of La. 182; Burglar alarm.
1:34 p.m. 600 block of Willow Street; Medical.
2:37 p.m. 6300 block of La. 182; Civil.
3:08 p.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Suspicious person.
3:24 p.m. 300 block of Wren Street; Disturbance.
3:45 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Medical.
3:55 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Lost and found.
5:16 p.m. 900 block of Poplar Street; Medical.
5:21 p.m. 100 block of Chennault Street; Complaint.
5:50 p.m. 1000 block of Ida Street; Alarm.
6:28 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Arrest.
7:27 p.m. 900 block of Duke Street; Arrest.
7:30 p.m. U.S. 90 East; Arrest.
8:24 p.m. 200 block of Canary Street; Complaint.
8:49 p.m. 200 block of Wren Street; Disturbance.
9:24 p.m. 900 block of Duke Street; Complaint.
9:24 p.m. 1100 block of Victor II Boulevard; Alarm.
9:24 p.m. 1200 block of Brashear Avenue; Alarm.
9:25 p.m. 1100 block of Victor II Boulevard; Alarm.
9:25 p.m. 1200 block of Kenneth Street; Alarm.
9:25 p.m. 1200 block of David Drive; Fire.
9:49 p.m. 800 block of Victor II Boulevard; Alarm.
11:46 p.m. 400 block of Bowman Street; Complaint.
11:54 p.m. 6800 block of La. 182; Removal of subject.
Monday, July 8
12:44 a.m. 7700 block of La. 182; Arrest.
2:16 a.m. 600 block of Brashear Avenue; Suspicious subject.

July 10 Parish Council amended agenda

Mon, 07/08/2024 - 10:09am

Click on the link below to download a .pdf version of the agenda.

Norwood stops in area on way to Europe for Olympics

Sat, 07/06/2024 - 7:49pm

Vernon Norwood enjoyed a day with his mom and brothers Saturday in Morgan City as he awaits officials word that he'll part of U.S. Olympic team

The official announcement is scheduled for Monday. But Norwood and others have reportedly been notified that they'll be part of the U.S. team's relay pool for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, which begins next month.

Norwood won a gold medal as a member of the 4x400 men's relay and a bronze for running in the mixed 4x400 at the Tokyo Games in 2021.

Norwood, nicknamed Tootie during his days at Morgan City High, visited in Morgan City as he prepares to leave Monday for Europe. He will run in races in Monaco and London before he makes his way to Paris.

Norwood picked up his mom, Charlette Ray, from her worksite at the Amelia Belle Casino before heading for a family lunch at the Atchafalaya at Idlewild restaurant in Patterson.

They were joined by his brothers, Curtis Ray and Travis Ray

Norwood won his preliminary heat in the men's individual 400 meters in the Olympic trials in Eugene, Oregon. In the finals, he finished fourth, one spot out of the top three who qualified for the 400 meters.

Wheel House for July 5

Sat, 07/06/2024 - 6:00am

SPIRITUAL
SCRIPTURE
Cake Program at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, July 28, at New Salem Baptist Church, 1412 Cherry St., Patterson. Speakers are the Rev. Samuel Calhoun and Minister Francis Span.

BREAKOUT:
ESCAPE
From Ordinary to Extraordinary at Bible School 5:30-8:30 p.m. July 14-18 at First United Methodist Church, 109 Gilmore Drive, Berwick. Ages 2 and up welcome as long as they’re potty-trained. Supper provided for all kids. Registration begins at 5:15 p.m. July 14. For info call 985-519-3078.

Dear Abby: Online acquaintance asks for closer relationship

Fri, 07/05/2024 - 6:00am

DEAR ABBY: I’m a 70-year-old Black woman who looks about 45 or 50. I recently met a man online while playing dominoes. We have been chatting back and forth for about two weeks now. He is 44, is of German descent and has a 9-year-old son. The problem is, he wants to have a relationship with me.
I have told him I’m 26 years older than he is, my children are older than him and I have great-grandchildren his son’s age. He says none of this matters to him. We have never met in person, but he has invited me to come to Texas. What else can I say to persuade him that this cannot work?
OUT OF THE
QUESTION IN VA.

DEAR OUT: My goodness, you certainly are getting the bum’s rush. Please take some time and get to know this person better. If you are still corresponding in, say, six months, a way to demonstrate the difference in your ages would be to accept his gracious invitation to visit, and bring along one of your children.

DEAR ABBY: My husband and I are retired and have recently joined a Harley Davidson motorcycle club. We both love to ride and are looking forward to many events in the coming months. At the first meeting we attended, an ex-lover of mine was seated at the same table near my husband. They seemed to enjoy conversing back and forth. I kept a low profile and tried to ignore the situation.
I know that at the meetings and upcoming events, we are sure to see each other. Should I tell my husband who this person is? I am concerned it will spoil those events for us and cause issues if I reveal it. My husband has, for years, taken meds for anxiety and depression. We are very happy together, and I love him very much.
LET’S RIDE IN THE SOUTH

DEAR LET’S RIDE: Very few people today don’t have some kind of history. Tell your husband the truth. Believe me, he is sure to be even more anxious and depressed if the situation is revealed before you can tell him.

DEAR ABBY: An old hat style that created problems years ago has returned. The brim is so large that a person sitting behind them in church can see nothing but the back of that hat. It’s aggravating to think I had a good place to sit and then have to spend an hour seeing only that big hat.
To block the view of those seated behind you is inconsiderate. I hope you will mention this in your column so women will be reminded how those large brims present a problem in any gathering where people are expected to sit quietly and listen to a speech or sermon.
I move when I can, but that isn’t always possible, especially when the hat suddenly “appears” right before the service starts and finding another place to sit isn’t feasible.
BLOCKED IN ALABAMA

DEAR BLOCKED: Your point is well taken. I’m pleased to pass your reminder along to those who need to see it, but since we cannot control the behavior of others, you would be well advised to run for the first row when you have a chance.

***

For an excellent guide to becoming a better conversationalist and a more sociable person, order “How to Be Popular.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby, Popularity Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. DEAR ABBY: I’m a 70-year-old Black woman who looks about 45 or 50. I recently met a man online while playing dominoes. We have been chatting back and forth for about two weeks now. He is 44, is of German descent and has a 9-year-old son. The problem is, he wants to have a relationship with me.
I have told him I’m 26 years older than he is, my children are older than him and I have great-grandchildren his son’s age. He says none of this matters to him. We have never met in person, but he has invited me to come to Texas. What else can I say to persuade him that this cannot work?
OUT OF THE
QUESTION IN VA.

***