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Supreme Court upholds U.S. House map with second Black-majority district

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 1:43pm

Staff Report

Staff and wire
reports

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday reinstated a controversial map of Louisiana’s U.S. House districts, a map that creates a second Black-majority district and takes U.S. Rep. Garret Graves’ district out of St. Mary Parish.

The challenge to the new maps was filed by a group of conservative “non-African American voters,” who charged that the map created by the Legislature this year represented an impermissible racial gerrymander.
The litigants also said the new districts were drawn to protect three Republican members of the U.S. House of Representatives: Speaker Mike Johnson, Majority Leader Steve Scalise and Rep. Julia Letlow.
A three-judge panel in the U.S. District Court of Western Louisiana agreed and struck down the new map. The 5th U.S. Circuit of Appeals refused to consider the case.

Then, on a challenge by Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, the Supreme Court reinstated the map with two Black-majority districts, at least temporarily.

Murrill, a conservative Republican, appeared to support the existing map on practical rather than ideological grounds.

“The Secretary of State has consistently stated she needed a map by May 15,” Murrill’s office said in a statement Wednesday.

“The plaintiffs did not contest it at trial. We will continue to defend the law and are grateful the Supreme Court granted the stay which will ensure we have a stable election season.”

The second Black-majority district turns the 6th District, now represented by Graves, R-Baton Rouge, into a backslash-shaped district stretching from Baton Rouge to St. Landry, then into Alexandria, Natchitoches and Shreveport.

St. Mary, the extreme southeast portion of which had been in Graves’ district, would be completely in the 3rd Congressional District represented by Clay Higgins, R-Lafayette.

Under the map upheld by the Supreme Court, Assumption is in the 2nd District represented by Troy Carter, D-New Orleans.

A statement from the Louisiana Democratic Parish praised the Supreme Court move.

“The right-wing effort to disenfranchise Louisiana voters has failed, and I’m thankful that the highest court in our land has sided with the people,” said Randal Gaines, chair of the Louisiana Democratic Party.

“Make no mistake, this new map is a win for representation and a win for those who have been underserved for far too long — and this fall, our new Louisiana Democratic Party will deliver a win for the people of Congressional District 6 and install the leadership we need and deserve.”

Court decisions forced the Legislature to create the map with two Black-majority districts. Proponents noted that while Louisiana’s population is about one-third African American, only one of the six House districts, Carter’s 2nd, has a Black majority.
The map leaves Graves’ political future in doubt. Longtime state legislator Cleo Fields, D-Baton Rouge, is considered a possible candidate in the new Black-majority district.

Steve Wilson of the Center Square did the background reporting for this story.

BRENDA MARIE THOMAS SIMON

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 12:10pm

On March 23, 1957, Brenda Marie Thomas was born to Fannie Marie Reed and Harold Quick Thomas. She came into this world keeping everyone on their toes. She was born big and breech and with beautiful red hair and glistening blue eyes to match her fiery and passionate personality. She grew up on a farm in Ashland, Louisiana as the youngest of five children where her parents were farmers and grocery store owners. As a child she was adventurous. She climbed trees and helped on the farm. She suddenly and unexpectedly lost her daddy to leukemia when she was 5 years old. She moved to Patterson, Louisiana along with her family in the late 1960’s. In her teenage years her sense of adventure and hard work continued. She drove motorcycles and was a cheerleader at Patterson High School. While in school she worked at Belles Department Store and Kroger’s to help make ends meet at home while her mother also went back to college to become a school teacher.
Upon marrying her high school sweetheart Brenda had two daughters, Angelena Marie Swords and Calyn Lee Swords and became the absolute best mom in the whole entire world. She gave, loved and sacrificed. She played with and liked her two girls just as much as she loved them. When life started to veer off course as happens for most she went back to work. Never one to sit around and wait for things to happen she hopped up and made the decision to go back to school for psychology and got a job at Fairview Hospital in Bayou Vista. It was during this time that she met and married her late husband Jesse W. Simon. During their 22 loving years of marriage they also shared driving a school bus route together for St. Mary Parish school system.
Life was never boring with Brenda around. In 1990 she decided that real estate was her calling and she dove right into becoming the very best and brightest in the real estate industry in South Louisiana. Her work ethic, honesty and ability to connect with people from all walks of life gave her the unique ability to help people find a house and turn it into a home. She founded Simon Real Estate, LLC in 2002 and it was here that she created a legacy of honesty, integrity and brilliance in real estate that continues to successfully serve South Louisiana today. In addition to helping families find and sell their homes she has also mentored other women on their journey to fulfilling careers in real estate.
In March 2022 she was diagnosed with cancer. Despite feeling afraid of what was to come she jumped straight in to prayer and treatment at M.D. Anderson in Houston with her family beside her. She battled and won and was cancer free that September. After a year it was discovered that her cancer had returned. The opportunity to be a part of a clinical trial for her cancer type became available. She prayed and then said yes. She said yes to hope and to this unique opportunity to fight the disease that has taken so much from so many. While the treatment did work on the cancer it was designed to treat, it did not work in preventing the spread of the disease.
She passed away on the morning of May 14, 2024 surrounded by her loving and adoring daughters, sons-in-law and longtime companion, Erwin Labat. There were prayers, tears, hope and sadness and most of all, gratitude for her, for a life well lived and for the legacy she leaves behind.
Brenda lived a blessed life. A life that was filled with joys and sorrows, hopes and dreams, disappointments and new beginnings. She was grateful for each and every moment. She was a great person, mom, meme, daughter, sister, companion, friend, dancer, cook, driver, artist, entrepreneur and go-getter. She drank her coffee black, liked her steaks well done and her margaritas with extra salt. She loved her swing in the backyard, making up songs for her babies, dancing with Erwin, shopping with her sister, daughters and friends until late into the night and taking spontaneous trips to places near and far. She said that while she trusted God and his plan for her, she sometimes didn’t feel ready to move on not because she was afraid but because she was so grateful for this beautiful life and she wanted more. More of all that makes life worth living. Her faith in God and in her savior Jesus Christ gave her peace as she took her final breath. A breath filled with gratitude for every second that she was gifted from God.
Brenda was welcomed into Heaven by her parents, Harold and Marie Thomas; and her husband, Jesse Willard Simon.
Brenda leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will be carried on by her daughters, Angelena Marie Swords Brocato and her husband Lyle, and Calyn Lee Swords Welch and her husband Lawrence; her grandchildren, Rocco Brocato, Luca Brocato, Lawrence Welch IV, Rossi Brocato, Parrish Welch and Franco Brocato; her long time love, Erwin Labat; her siblings, Linda Martin, Jimmy Thomas, Barbara Brinley and Glow Michel; as well as a host of extended family and friends.
The family requests that visiting hours be observed Friday, May 17th, at Ibert’s Mortuary in Patterson from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM, at which time the Holy Rosary will be prayed followed by procession to St. Joseph Catholic Church for a 1:00 PM Mass of Christian Burial. She will be laid to rest in the St. Joseph Cemetery Mausoleum. Father Richard Greene will be the Celebrant for the Mass and conduct the services.
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)
Family and friends may view the obituary online by visiting www.iberts.com and are encouraged to share their condolences, cherished memories, love, and support for the family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ibert’s Mortuary, Inc., 1111 Lia Street, Patterson, LA 70538, (985) 395-7873.

HILLIARD ALVIN SMITH III

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 12:07pm

Hilliard Alvin Smith III, 69, a native of Patterson, Louisiana, and a resident of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, died at 1:26 a.m. May 6, 2024 at HCA Florida Fort Walton Destin Hospital.
Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until 1 p.m. Saturday until the funeral services at Davis Watkins Funeral Home, 113 Racetrack Road, Fort Walton Beach.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years; Audrey “Pat” Smith of Fort Walton Beach; daughters Makiesha, Akielah (Robert) and Halona; brothers Johnny Earl Carbin Jr., Clemous Mingo, and Mark Smith; sisters Naomi (James) Perry, Mary (Landolph) Prevot Jr., Melanie Gobert, Faith Smith, Rosalind Williams, Elda (Ronald) Johnson, all of Patterson, Jackie (Deserie) Wilson of Houma and Tina (Calvin) Williams of Norfolk, Virginia; and grandchildren Diamonee, 24, Simiya, 19, D’Kai, 9, Sir’Mayne, 8, Safiyah, 6, Raijhan, 4, and Siana, 11 months; and goddaughter/cousin Caprice and Kelvin.
He was preceded in death his mother Mildred McKenzie Smith Carbin and step parents Johnny Carbin Sr. and Lillie Smith; brothers Lawerence and Dale Smith; sisters Carol Smith Carbin James and Sandra Leona Smith; grandparents Elliot McKenzie, Naomi DeGraffenaried , Hilliard Smith Sr. and Beatrice Smith; and nephews Kim Jerome Gobert, II and Lanier Prevot.

GREGORY LANE 'GREG' GARRETT

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 11:57am

A native and resident of New Roads and former long-time resident of Houma, Gregory Lane “Greg” Garrett, 73, passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at LaCour House Assisted Living in New Roads.
Greg was born on June 4, 1950, to C.D. and Aline Talbot Garrett. He was a graduate of Poydras High School in New Roads and received degrees from Southeastern Louisiana University and LSU. He also served in the Louisiana National Guard. Greg retired as “Regional Director Emeritus” after more than 32 years with the South Central Louisiana Technical College System. He spent most of his career advancing career and technical education.
During his tenure he helped generate millions of dollars through grants and donations to procure equipment needed to provide maritime and safety training to students. He also served as Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Council on Occupational Education (COE), an organization whose mission is to ensure quality and integrity in international career and technical education.
Greg is survived by two sons, Adam Garrett (Jamie) and Josh Garrett; grandchildren, Cailye, Lilly, and Harper Garrett; mother of his sons, Paulette Harris Garrett; sisters, Madonna Hutchinson (Esmond) and Kathy Holloway (Eugene); sister-in-law, Tina Garrett, and brother-in-law, Ronnie Robillard; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, C.D. and Aline Garrett; siblings, Danny Garrett, Terry Garrett, and Bonnie Robillard.
A celebration of Greg’s life will be held at Niland’s Funeral Home in New Roads (210 West End Drive, New Roads, LA 70760) on Saturday, May 18, 2024, with visitation from 11:00am until 2:00pm and Memorial Service beginning at 2:00pm. Special thanks to the entire staff of LaCour House and Pointe Coupee Hospice for the loving care and attention they provided Greg during his final years.

LINDA IRENE HOTARD

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 11:55am

New Iberia – Funeral services will be held at Pellerin Funeral Home at 2:00 pm on Sunday, May 19, 2024, for Linda Irene Hotard, 72, who passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Belle Teche Nursing Home.
Rev. Bert Carter will officiate.
Interment will follow at Beau Pre Cemetery in Jeanerette.
Visitation will be at Pellerin Funeral Home on Sunday from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm.
Linda Irene Hotard was born on May 8, 1952, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late Elias Hamilton Poole and Lena Irene Newell Poole. A resident of Louisiana for about 40 years, Linda will always be remembered for her unwavering love and dedication to her family. As a pastor’s wife, she found joy in serving her church community as a Sunday School teacher and as song leader and piano player for many years. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she shared it with everyone she met.
One of Linda’s greatest joys was fulfilling her lifelong dream of motherhood. She raised eight boys with love, patience, and strength, molding them into successful men who carry on her legacy every day. Her nurturing spirit and wisdom will forever remain in their hearts.
Linda also had a passion for sewing, gardening, playing the piano, and watching hummingbirds feed. These hobbies brought her peace and allowed her creativity to flourish. She touched the lives of many with her kindness, grace, and compassion. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to have known her.
Mrs. Hotard is survived by eight sons, Kennith Robert Hotard Jr. (Tammy), Mark Thomas Hotard (Jennifer), Scott Thomas Hotard, Chris Darren Hotard, Danny Joe Hotard (Christine), Allen Hamilton Hotard (Tara), Eric Robert Hotard (Jessica), and Michael Raymond Hotard; siblings, Donald Poole, Barbara Bullock, Bernard Poole, Dale Poole, and Bill Poole; 19 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Rev. Kennith Robert Hotard Sr.; great-grandson, Samuel Bourque; and siblings, Louise Smeal, Charlie Poole, Richard Poole, Marie Musgrave, Geraldine Lamb, Wendell Poole, and Joyce Hayslip.
Pallbearers will be her sons, Kennith, Mark, Scott, Chris, Danny, Allen, Eric and Michael Hotard.
Linda’s memory will forever be cherished. May she rest in peace.
Pellerin Funeral Home, 502 Jefferson Terrace Blvd., New Iberia, LA 70560 (337-365-3331).

La. parishes approved for forest rehabilitation program

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 11:43am

U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency announced that all 64 Louisiana parishes have been approved for the Emergency Forest Restoration Program to restore private forest lands impacted by severe drought and related insect damage. 

The EFRP signup period runs to July 12.

Learn more at www.fsa.usda.gov.

Three St. Mary students earn degrees at Northwestern St.

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 11:36am

Three St. Mary Parish students were among the 779 people who received degrees May 8-9 at Northwestern State University’s Prather Coliseum in Natchitoches.
Zoe Johnson and Savanna Richard, both of Patterson, received Bachelor of Science degrees.
Jalacia Alexander if Franklin also received a Bachelor of Science degree.
NSU awarded a posthumous degree to the family of Alicia Rene Davis, who completed academic credits to earn a Bachelor of Science in psychology.

Eight area students make Southern New Hampshire President's List

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 11:30am

Eight area students have been named to the Southern New Hampshire University President’s List for the January-May term.
Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 for the reporting term are named to the President’s List.
The local students are:
—Tuan-Hai Nguyen of Berwick
—Cheyanne Plessala of Morgan City
—Alicia Morris of Morgan City
—Brandi Rodriguez of Baldwin
—A’Ja Matthews of Franklin
—Luke Mendoza of Franklin
—Charlesha Wesley of Jeanerette
—Jatasha Nora of Jeanerette

Bayou Vista resident will turn 100 Sunday

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 11:26am

Ella B. Walker, a resident of Bayou Vista, will celebrate her 100th birthday Sunday, May 19.
Her well-wishers include her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews and friends.
Born May 19, 1924, in Lafourche Crossing, she graduated from Morgan City High in 1943, and has been living in Bayou Vista since 1958.
She has three children, five grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren. She is known as Aunt Mae to a host of nieces and nephews and as Mrs. Ella by her friends.
She still faithfully attends Mass at St. Bernadette Catholic Church and enjoys trips to the casino, sitting outside on a warm afternoon enjoying the beauty of nature, TV and reading her Review.

Suspect in Wednesday shooting booked on attempted murder counts

Thu, 05/16/2024 - 11:04am

Staff Report

A Railroad Avenue man has been booked on attempted murder charges after an exchange of gunfire, in the presence of a child, on Wednesday at a Fifth Street home, Morgan City police said.

Joshua D. Robertson, 32, was arrested at 3:15 p.m. Wednesday on two counts of attempted second-degree murder and charges of aggravated criminal damage to property, illegal use of dangerous instrumentalities, aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, simple battery, flight from an officer, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

According to the police account, reports indicate that Robertson had approached the victim in the area of Fifth Street. After a verbal altercation, Robertson struck the victim when a struggle ensued.

Robertson then allegedly retreated to his vehicle and brandished a firearm. At the time, the victim was with a small child. The victim armed himself with a firearm and began to retreat into a residence when Robertson allegedly fired a shot.

It was determined that the victim returned gunfire and retreated into the residence. There was also another subject and a small child inside, police said.

Officers with the Morgan City Police Department responded to the area. A vehicle was observed fleeing the area. The officer attempted to initiate a stop when the vehicle continued to flee.

A short pursuit ensued when the vehicle was stopped on Sixth Street near Clothilde Street. The sole occupant of the vehicle, Robertson, was detained pending further investigation, police said. The vehicle had been hit by gunfire.

Officers and investigators with the Morgan City Police Department Detectives Division and the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of Fifth Street near Freret Street and secured the scene of the crime. A second subject, who was later determined to be the victim, was detained pending further investigation.

Investigators were able to obtain evidence that corroborated the victims’ account of what took place through search warrants of the residence where the shooting occurred, and the vehicle Robertson fled in. Suspected marijuana and drug paraphernalia was located in Robertson’s vehicle, police said.

Warrants were obtained for Robertson’s arrest regarding the incident. Robertson was booked into the Morgan City Jail, where he now awaits court proceedings.

Chief Chad M. Adams and the Morgan City Police Department commended officers and investigators of the Morgan City Police Department and the St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office for their quick response to this incident.
“Due to their actions and professionalism scenes were secured and the suspected shooter was quickly taken into custody,” said a Police Department statement.