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In Morgan City, blighted property ordinance will be reviewed

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 1:05pm

BILL DECKER

The Morgan City Council on Tuesday moved toward a more effective ordinance for dealing with blighted property.
The council also voted to adopt new district maps that will be used for the elections coming up later this year, and approved plans for two holiday events – the annual Irish Italian Parade and, with time to spare, the 2024 Christmas bonfires at Lake End Park.
Blighted property
The council is hoping its new deal with The Coastal Trust Inc. will provide quicker resolution in blighted property cases first, and then review other ordinances.
The 501(3)c bills itself online as offering “equitable and affordable access to conservation services and management, technical, and financial assistance for governments and non-profits, with a focus on areas of poverty, pollution, and flood vulnerability.”
The council has struggled with the legal procedures required to condemn and tear down decrepit buildings. Aside from the delays, Chief Administrative Officer Charlie Solar told the council, the city has been able to recover very little of the cost of tearing buildings down.
At a rate of $150 an hour, an adviser will look at Morgan City’s ordinances and compare them with the solutions found by other local governments.
The council passed a resolution authorizing Mayor Lee Dragna to sign an agreement with The Coastal Trust with a cap of $5,000.
Councilman Mark Stephens had a suggestion for the next set of laws to review: those governing animals in the city.
New map
The new maps of the five council districts make no drastic changes in the previous maps, although they do result in a slight increase in the proportion of Black voters in District 3, the only district with a majority of African American voters.
District maps are generally redrawn after each U.S. Census in order to ensure each government’s districts are equal in size within 5%.
A text description of the new districts is available by clicking on a link attached to this story at StMaryNow.com.
Also Tuesday:
—The council gave Black History Month recognition to a regular attendee at City Council meetings, police Capt. Betty Augman. She is the first woman, and the first African-American woman, to achieve that rank in the Morgan City Police Department.
—The council approved plans for the annual Krewe of Dionysus Irish Italian Heritage Parade at 1 p.m. March 16. Dionysus member Heath Landry said the parade’s vehicles are limited to golf carts. The parade will move from Second and Onstead to Second and Everett.
—The council gave a preliminary OK to plans for the 2024 Christmas bonfire at Lake End Park.
Lee Price told the council that the 2023 event, the first, drew a crowd estimated at 400. Like the 2023 bonfires, the 2024 edition will be Dec. 23. Price said the lessons learned include a need for portable restrooms and a roped-off section so people can view the fires from chairs rather than staying in their vehicles.
The town of Berwick provided portable lights for the 2023 bonfires, and the Morgan City government added some pallets that had been stored at the Petting Zoo.
—The council authorized Dragna to sign a cooperative endeavor agreement with the Youth Center at South Louisiana Community College. The program offers homework help, field trips and other activities for junior high and high school students.

Speeding plus no license equals booking for four in Franklin

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 11:44am

(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.)

Morgan City and Franklin police reported six arrests Tuesday, including four men in Franklin accused of driving with no license or suspended licenses.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that the Morgan City Police Department responded to 36 calls for service over the last 24-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Jeffery Scott Lambert Jr., 26, River Road, Berwick, was arrested at 2:10 p.m. Tuesday on a charge of contempt of court (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Amber Rene Taylor, 34, Levee Road, Morgan City, was arrested at 2:10 p.m. Tuesday on a charge of contempt of court (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy reported that the Franklin Police Department responded to 11 complaints over the last 24-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Jesus Ramirez, 30, Vieux Orleans Street, Lafayette, was arrested at 6:48 a.m. Tuesday on charges of speeding and no driver's license. Ramirez was booked, processed and released on a $478.50 bond.

--Derrick Derouen, 35, Samuel Street, Franklin, was arrested at 7:04 a.m. Tuesday on charges of speeding, suspended driver's license and no insurance. Derouen was booked, processed and released on a $1,054 bond.

--Juan-Carlos Valle, 31, Gomez Palacio, Mexico, was arrested at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday on charges of speeding, driver must be licensed and no insurance. Valle was booked, processed and released on a $1,054 bond.

--Heath Loupe, 27, Ponderosa Road, DeRidder, was arrested at 4:16 p.m. Tuesday on charges of speeding and driving under suspension. Loupe was booked, processed and released on a $468.50 bond.

Court Massabielle donates to Sacred Heart

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 9:58am

Court Massabielle, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, recently donated to Sacred Heart of Jesus Roman Catholic Church in Morgan City to help with replacement of chairs in the Sacred Heart cafeteria. Court Massabielle meets in the Sacred Heart Cafeteria at 6:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month, except July. Catholic Daughters of the Americas is one of the oldest and largest organizations of Catholic women in the Americas. The CDA motto is “Unity and Charity.” Court Massabielle members represent Sacred Heart and Holy Cross Catholic Churches, and membership is open to all women of the Catholic faith 18 years and older. On hand to accept the donation was the Rev. Brett Lapeyrouse, administrator of Sacred Heart, from Regent Jovita Compton and Court Massabielle members.

Get It Growing: Lawns spring to life in February

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 9:56am

By HEATHER KIRK-BALLARD, LSU AgCenter Horticulturist

As spring approaches in Louisiana, it’s time to shift our focus from the quiet dormancy of winter lawns to the vibrant growth season ahead. Soon enough, we will need to break out the lawnmowers if you haven’t already.
With the arrival of warmer weather, traditional lawns spring back to life, demanding attention to combat weeds and prepare for the growing season. Despite the dormant appearance of turfgrasses, weeds such as clover, lawn burweed and annual bluegrass remain active, stressing the need for early intervention.
Herbicides that include a combination of 2,4-D, dicamba and mecoprop have proven effective in controlling broadleaf weeds. It’s advised to apply these from January through spring for optimal results.
Research conducted by LSU AgCenter weed scientist Ron Strahan suggests that a mixture of atrazine with this three-way herbicide formula along with a spreader sticker offers a highly effective solution. Once temperatures heat up above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, you need to stop using these products altogether, as they can burn your lawn.
Herbicides are helpful tools in controlling weeds and making landscaping efforts a little bit more manageable. When used responsibly and according to guidelines, the impact of herbicides on the environment and wildlife can be minimized.
Some safe alternatives to traditional herbicides include organic products that contain the active ingredient iron HEDTA, also called FeHEDTA. Products with this active ingredient have been shown to eliminate broadleaf weeds without damaging the grass.
One thing we want to avoid until the temperatures warm up is nitrogen fertilization on dormant turf to prevent fungal diseases and winter kill.
Lawns may show signs of green-up in southern Louisiana in late February. Do not push turfgrass growth with fertilizer at this time.
Fertilizer applied too early will feed winter weeds and will result in lush turfgrass growth that is more susceptible to injury from late frosts and increased levels of brown patch disease.
Lawns may be fertilized in the New Orleans area by late March, but delay fertilizing areas north of Baton Rouge until early April. Consider fertilizing lawns in north Louisiana around mid-April.
Soil testing offered by the LSU AgCenter provides valuable insights into your lawn’s needs, guiding fertilization and maintenance strategies. Call the AgCenter office in your parish for information on this service.
It’s advisable to delay permanent warm-season turfgrass establishment until after the spring green-up, focusing instead on controlling weeds and treating large patch and other fungal diseases to ensure a healthy regrowth.
For homeowners seeking a lower-maintenance and more environmentally friendly option, alternative lawns offer an appealing solution. Groundcovers and low-growing plants, including native and select nonnative species, can reduce the need for regular mowing, fertilization and weed control.
Shade-tolerant alternatives such as liriope and English ivy along with sun-loving sedums and dwarf lantanas cater to different areas of the garden, ensuring vibrancy and coverage regardless of sunlight exposure.
For a more dynamic landscape, consider replacing large turf areas with wildflower meadows, annuals, perennials or a mix of shrubs and trees, inviting pollinators and adding color and texture to your outdoor space.
Choosing between a traditional lawn and an alternative landscape depends on your lifestyle, maintenance preferences and environmental concerns. While traditional lawns offer a classic look and recreational space, alternative lawns can provide a unique aesthetic with reduced water and chemical use.
Regardless of your choice, early-spring care is crucial for a healthy, resilient landscape.

In-laws keep spouses off family-only text thread

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 9:53am

By Jeanne Phillips, ©United Features Syndicate

DEAR ABBY: I recently married and was excited to be part of my husband’s family. My own siblings and I are not particularly close. During COVID, one of my husband’s sisters started a family text chain in which they share what’s happening in their lives. I thought it was a great idea.
Not technically being a family member yet, I understood why I wasn’t included in the thread. But after our wedding, I wasn’t added to the chain. Come to find out, none of the spouses are included.
I have also learned from my husband that his mother really had no use for any of her kids’ spouses, because technically “we are not one of THEM.”
They aren’t sharing earth-shattering information with one another. It’s normally fun stuff or things their kids are up to, etc. It is very hurtful that I’m not included. I have to hear everything secondhand from my husband.
Am I wrong to feel this way? I asked him to add me to the list and he tried, but he couldn’t. Instead of pursuing it with his sister, he just dropped it. I have asked him several times to see what he can do, to no avail. I feel like he doesn’t have my back.
Your advice?
LEFT OUT IN FLORIDA

DEAR LEFT OUT: Your husband doesn’t have enough power in his family to do what you have been requesting, which is regrettable.
Rather than pout, consider starting a text chain of your own, comprising of all the outcasts who have been excluded from the “our bloodline and nobody else” chain. It might be fun, and you may find it’s a club that is welcoming and has some interesting things to say.

DEAR ABBY: My wife of 26 years is having an affair with another (married) man. We have teenage kids and so does he. She has been having him over and meeting him out for the last four months. The kids have noticed how she takes off in the middle of the day for hours to do a “solo hike.” Several times, my teenage daughter has called me at work, frantic, saying Mom is not answering either of her phones and was supposed to pick her up at the agreed-upon location.
My wife claims to love us both and wants to continue both relationships. For our family’s sake, it is sad that this has happened. He is the manager of a local business, and I encounter him from time to time. I want to ask him how he thinks this is OK.
What should I do?
SHARING HER IN MASSACHUSETTS

DEAR SHARING HER: Make up your mind about what kind of a marriage you want. If it’s what you are experiencing now, do nothing. However, if it isn’t, tell your wandering wife she must end the affair now. Offer her the option of counseling to see if you can get your marriage back on track.
Instead of talking with the man she’s having the fling with, tell HIS WIFE what has been happening if she’s unaware. That your wife is so irresponsible she would leave her daughter stranded while she’s “hiking” is disgraceful. If your wife refuses counseling, contact an attorney.
***
Good advice for everyone — teens to seniors — is in “The Anger in All of Us and How to Deal With It.” To order, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby, Anger Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.

MARIE 'TENA' ROUSSO GRIZZAFFI

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 8:19am

Marie “Tena” Rousso Grizzaffi, 90, a resident of Morgan City, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.
Tena was born December 31, 1933, in Morgan City, Louisiana to the late Jack James Rousso, Sr. and Marie Grace Russo Rousso.
After graduating from Sacred Heart Academy in 1951, where she was her class valedictorian, Tena went to work for Ned Russo’s insurance agency. She and her husband Leo married on 5-5-55 and moved to Long Beach, California, where he was serving in the Navy during the Korean conflict.
Tena was a lifelong member of the Catholic Daughters. She was dedicated to her Catholic faith and to Catholic education. She demonstrated and impressed this upon her family.
She loved her Sicilian heritage, and passed her traditional recipes on to her children and grandchildren. Tena gathered her children and grandchildren each year after Thanksgiving to make Cuicidati (Italian Fig Cookies), Olive Salad, Svincuini, and Caponata.
Tena was a devoted wife and mother, a wonderful cook, seamstress, and bookkeeper. She worked beside her husband Leo in their business, Leo’s Firestone, until their retirement.
She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her six children, Donna Grizzaffi Burke (Myron) of Morgan City, Melanie Grizzaffi O’Neil (Steve) of Gulf Shores, AL, Leo Grizzaffi Jr. (Leigh) of Morgan City, Julie Grizzaffi Walker of Lafayette, Bruce Grizzaffi (Jackie) of Baton Rouge, Gregory Grizzaffi (Brigitte) of Baton Rouge;); 13 grandchildren, Jacques “Jake” Olivier (Michelle), Matthew Olivier, Abby Burke, Emily Burke Patureau (Matthew), Benjamin Olivier (Ashley), Leo “Luca” Grizzaffi, Elizabeth Walker, Salvatore Grizzaffi (Marissa), Mariel Walker Ortego (Lane), Michael Grizzaffi, Grant Grizzaffi, Ava Grizzaffi, and Lucy Tena Grizzaffi; two bonus grandchildren, Roderick Burke and Lauren Burke Davidson (Aaron); five great-grandchildren, Clara and Audrey Olivier, Evelyn Grizzaffi, Jack Ortego, and Alice Grizzaffi; brother Matthew Rousso (Janet), three sisters-in-law, Belva Grizzaffi Myers, Janice Grizzaffi, and Earline Grizzaffi.
Tena was preceded in death by her parents, Jack Sr and Marie Rousso, the love of her life, her Honey, and husband of 67 years, Leo Luke Grizzaffi Sr.; her brothers, Rev. Anthony Rousso, Santo (Stella) Rousso, and Jack (Pat) Rousso Jr.
A visitation was held Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Twin City Funeral Home from 9:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian burial followed at 12:00 noon Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with Very Rev. Jay Baker officiating. Tena was laid to rest with her husband Leo, in the Morgan City Cemetery Mausoleum.

SHIRLEY FRANCIS

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 8:18am

Shirley Francis, a native of Morgan City, Louisiana, died Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, at the age of 76.
She is survived by her two daughters, Jealena Francis Gros, and her husband Chad, of Lafayette, and Melinda Francis Tonglet and her husband Jason of Gretna; her sisters, Elaine Fontenot of Rockport, Texas, Cheryl Aucoin Veillon and her husband Tim of Morgan City, and Sheila Aucoin Olsen and her husband Jerry of Eureka, Kansas; one sister-in-law; and two grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband; a son; a brother; a sister; and a brother-in-law.
A memorial visitation will be held 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Friday, March 1, at Hargrave Funeral Home, with a Catholic prayer service taking place at 2 p.m. Graveside services will be held at a later date by the family.

SANDRA WEEDEN KELLY

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 8:17am

Sandra Weeden Kelly, 66, a resident of Patterson, Louisiana, died Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, at Ocshner St. Mary Hospital in Morgan City.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the Celebration of Life at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, at the Bayou Vista Civic Center, 1333 Bellview St., Bayou Vista. Burial will follow in the Berwick Cemetery.
She is survived by her husband, Charlie Kelly Sr.; two sons, Charlie Kelly Jr. and Derrick (Tyese) Kelly; a brother, Aubrey Weeden Sr.; her sister, Diane Givens; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren and along with a host of family and friends.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents; a sister; a brother; a brother; a son; and a niece.
Jones Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

AARON JOSEPH BOUDREAUX SR.

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 8:16am

Aaron Joseph Boudreaux Sr., a native of Morgan City, Louisiana, and a resident of Amelia, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, at the age of 47.
He is survived by two sons, Aaron Joseph Boudreaux Jr. and Ethan Paul Boudreaux; a daughter, Kristen LeBlanc; his mother, Sharon Boudreaux; his siblings, Chantel Ohmer and her husband, Jimmy, and Lee Boudreaux. He is also survived by his spouse, Deanna Crosby Boudreaux; and numerous uncles, aunts and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father and his paternal and maternal grandparents.
A time of visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of the service at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Amelia. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, Feb. 24, at 11 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church. Graveside services will be held at a later date by the family.

ROBERT CHESTER GUIDROZ

Wed, 02/28/2024 - 8:15am

Robert Chester Guidroz, died Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, at the age of 73.
He is survived by his wife, Dierdre Daigle Guidroz; daughter Belinda Cochran and husband Jim; three sons, Robert Guidroz and wife Dawn, Nicholas Guidroz and companion Judy, and Brett Guidroz and wife April; three sisters, Shelia Leonard, Merly Thomas, and Garlan Stansbury and husband Bennie; one brother, Billy Guidroz and wife Rosie; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law; and sister-in-law.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, and two brothers-in-law.
A memorial service will be held at Pharr Chapel Methodist Church in Morgan City at 11 a.m. Friday, March 1. Following the service, family and friends are invited to the fellowship hall for a Celebration of Life.