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La. Guard recognizes contributions by Native Americans

Fri, 12/01/2023 - 8:25am

SGT. 1st CLASS SCOTT D. LONGSTREET, La. National Guard Public Affairs Office

November was designated as Native American and Alaskan Heritage Month, a time to acknowledge the rich and diverse cultures and histories of native Alaskans and Native Americans.
Louisiana Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Bruce A. Phillips Jr. from Port Sulphur is a proud Native American who currently has more than 21 years of service. Throughout his career, Phillips has served in multiple positions to include his current role as a human resources specialist at Jackson Barracks.
In 2002, Philips enlisted in the National Guard as an aircraft fueler before later reclassing to human resources in 2013.
During his service, Philips deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
“From maintaining personnel readiness to ensuring aircraft do not fall from the sky, I enjoy being trained in a variety of skill sets,” said Phillips. “This diversity in skills allows me to better serve the LANG and the people of Jackson Barracks.”
Phillips explained that a career in the military was not his original plan for his adult life; however, his grandfather had proudly served and that influenced his own decision to enlist.
“My grandfather served in Vietnam,” Philips explained. “Listening to his stories and watching how he carried himself was a huge influence on me. His guidance has led me in both my military career as well as my personal life.”
In addition to his grandfather’s influences, Philips’s father played a pivotal role in developing an appreciation for his Native American heritage and a positive approach to life.
“I looked up the most to my father,” said Philips. “He taught me how a man should be, how a man should lead and to be a chief at everything you do. He also taught me to be a good cook and hunter and to provide for my family.”
Phillips continues some of the traditions of his Native American lineage. He attends powwows, has dreamcatchers and uses home remedies.
“I still attend traditional things like powwows, but I especially enjoy fishing and bow hunting. And we Native Americans have such good hair,” jested Philips.
When not working at Jackson Barracks or responding to natural disasters, Phillips enjoys spending his free time with his wife and kids.
As a federal technician and reservist with the LANG, Phillips says he thoroughly understands the benefits of being a Guardsman and serving community.
“This is an excellent way to earn a college degree while enjoying other benefits the Guard has to offer,” stated Philips. “Living the Guard lifestyle teaches you how to thrive in the civilian world, both mentally and physically. The money and friendships are also an enjoyable part of what the Louisiana National Guard has to offer.”
In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Similar proclamations, under variants on the name (including “Native American Heritage Month” and “National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month”) have been issued each year since 1994.
“We are all people under the same roof,” expressed Philips. “This month not only benefits Native Americans but people of every heritage that have contributed to what American culture is today.”
Phillips concluded by saying, “I do not want to be treated differently from anyone else. We are all in this world together with nowhere else to go; so, let’s work together.”

Jim Brown: Get tough on La. litter

Fri, 12/01/2023 - 8:23am

JIM BROWN

Big news about all the trash in the Bayou State. Government is going to study the problem.
LSU is going to take the lead according to an announcement, made last week, to “help find ways to rid the state of all that trash.” That’s just what we need. Another study. Right?
I’m certainly not diminishing any need to clean up our trashy state. The nonprofit Keep Louisiana Beautiful organization says that there are nearly 144,000,000 pieces of litter on Louisiana roadways, and for every mile a Louisianan drives on the interstate they pass an average of 10,178 pieces of trash.
Am I a bit skeptical about any significant results? That would be an understatement.
State government has been talking about cleaning up the trash around the state for decades, with little to show for it. And what’s all this about forming an LSU-based initiative? Just drive around the LSU campus. You will find loads of trash all over the campus.
A few years back, a Chinese group was considering investing in an industrial site located in northeast Louisiana along I-20. The group flew to Shreveport, and state officials drove them through Monroe to the site in Richland Parish.
After looking over the site, the group decided against building on that location. I asked one of the state representatives why the Chinese Group turned the site down. I was told there were two reasons. First of all, Louisiana did not have an adequately trained workforce. The second reason was roadway conditions. “You have such a trashy state,” our state representatives were told.
Nov. 18 was election day and campaign workers were on the neutral grounds, waving campaign flags. As I went to vote, a number of campaign workers had plastic and paper drinking containers in their hands. When I came back an hour later, the containers were tossed all over the middle ground, and into the street itself. So candidates were offering themselves to represent the public, and their supporters were dumping trash all over the streets.
I went to a grandson's soccer game last week, and a number of volunteer workers were walking over the field picking up large bags of trash. I complimented them for their devotion and diligence. One week later, when I went back for another soccer game, the field had been littered with more trash than the week before.
So what do we do? It’s obvious that educating the public and getting volunteers to pick up the trash just is not working. In a state with Louisiana’s mindset of lack of litter concern, there’s only one way to keep all this litter from being dumped on the roadways. Prosecute, prosecute, prosecute. The state needs to profile those who dump trash, and bring criminal charges against them. First offense $500 fine. Second defense, 30 days in jail. No exceptions and no probation. Unless the Bayou State shows it means business, the trash will continue to pile up.
So how do you do it? Profile 15 or 20 heavily littered roadways in the state. They’re easy to find. Post cameras along those sites that can be monitored around the clock. When a driver is filmed dumping his or her trash on the side of the road, make a high-profile arrest. Call a press conference. I would initially even go one step further, and assign several unmarked state police vehicles to undertake surveillance.
Look, if there’s a will, there’s a way. If these suggestions sound too tough to you, then maybe you are part of the problem. I’m sick and tired of living in a state filled with trash that has become the eyesore of America. We need to show we mean business. No more studies. No more education programs. Let’s start cleaning up our state by profiling those we are dumping trash, and sticking them with a large fine, or getting them off the road altogether. I’ve had enough. How about you?
Peace and Justice
Jim Brown
Jim Brown’s syndicated column appears each week in numerous newspapers throughout the nation and on websites worldwide. You can read all his past columns and see continuing updates at http://www.jimbrownla.com. You can also listen to his regular podcast at www.datelinelouisiana.com.

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Jeremy Alford: House Republicans discuss coming term

Fri, 12/01/2023 - 8:20am

JEREMY ALFORD

The leadership in the Republican-led House of Representatives in Baton Rouge is taking shape quicker than usual.
That’s due largely to the October primary win of Gov.-elect Jeff Landry, who was allowed to start his transition from attorney general to the state’s CEO a little early. Normally gubernatorial races are decided in runoff elections, but Landry secured 52 percent in a crowded field, giving him a sort of political mandate to move fast.
In the state House, that meant allowing members to read the proverbial writing on the wall in regard to who should be the next speaker. The major candidates for the job dropped out before the Thanksgiving holiday and threw their collective support behind a Landry ally, Rep. Phillip DeVillier of Eunice.
Across Memorial Hall in the upper chamber, Landry has outright endorsed Sen. Cameron Henry of Jefferson for the post of Senate president. That news, however, didn’t arrive in Capitoland with the same kind of thump as DeVillier’s rise to the gavel.
Internal elections in the House, with 105 members, are always messier than those hosted by the body with 39 senators. So politicos were able to breathe a sigh of relief with the DeVillier news, because competitive leadership elections have ways of dividing the House for full terms.
House Republicans, as a delegation, will meet next on Monday, Dec. 4. The agenda was supposed to include a contested endorsement vote for speaker of the House, which will in turn officially be decided during a January organizational session of the new Legislature.
Members will also vote for the next delegation chair. That honor is expected to go to Rep. Mark Wright of St. Tammany Parish. Currently the chairman of the House Transportation Committee, Wright said the meeting will be used to elect other officers as well, along with board members for the delegation’s political action committee.
Members may still nominate a speaker candidate, as a formality, and will start prepping for next year’s sessions “by identifying legislative priorities and how they match with the governor-elect’s,” Wright said.
“We’ll also have a retreat in 2024 where we spend more time on these issues,” he added.
Next calendar year will indeed be busy, with the organizational session slated for Jan. 8 and the regular session scheduled for March 11. Before, in between and after, there could be other special sessions on redistricting, crime and insurance.
“I think we’re looking at two special sessions in the first half of the year,” Wright said, “but we’ll need to get a better sense of the governor-elect’s priorities and which ones need to be done in a special, especially given the fact we start the regular session earlier in the calendar.”
As for the regular session, Wright said, “Crime and insurance have clearly taken front seats, but I’m sure the budget surplus will provide opportunities to revisit priorities. I suspect transportation and jobs will get attention, too.”
A bigger question may involve how Republicans will govern in concert with Democrats, who will enjoy smaller numbers than ever in Baton Rouge. Despite the imbalance, Wright said a partnership of some fashion will be required.
“We’re always going to meet and talk with Democratic colleagues so they can address their district concerns,” said Wright. “Obviously we have disagreements about certain policies or principles, but I think most Republicans and Democrats are focused on how to best position Louisiana for the future. We’re only as strong as our weakest link.”
>i>For more Louisiana political news, visit www. LaPolitics.com or follow Alford on Twitter @ LaPoliticsNow.

U.S. industry is a leader in clean energy

Fri, 12/01/2023 - 8:14am

BETHANY BLANKLEY, The Center Square

A U.S. House Energy and Commerce subcommittee highlighted how the U.S. oil and natural gas industry is a global leader in clean energy production at a Wednesday hearing.
In a memo to members of the Subcommittee on Environment, Manufacturing, and Critical Material, Chairman Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Washington, highlighted the strength of the American energy industry.
“Blessed with tremendous natural resources and an economic system that fosters the free flow of capital to support its innovative and technological capabilities, the United States has developed and maintains the most sophisticated, efficient, and productive systems of energy production and delivery in the world,” she said. “Its vast and complex electricity systems deliver uninterrupted power to the public, manufacturers, and industry – all of which serve to provide the affordable, reliable energy, feedstock, and power necessary to expand and protect America’s economy, security, the environment, and the public welfare.”
The U.S. energy industry “has fostered world-changing entrepreneurial and innovative activity” that has driven economic growth, more efficient energy production, and reduced pollution, McMorris Rodgers notes. Over the last 50 years, combined air pollutant emissions dropped by 78%, according to the EPA. Emissions reductions occurred as the national GDP increased by 304%, vehicle miles traveled increased 183%, the U.S. population increased over 60%, and energy consumption increased 48%, she said.
McMorris Rodgers also cites reports showing how U.S. air quality levels are superior to those reported in countries worldwide, largely credited to the U.S. shale revolution, which “serves as a lesson in the benefits of American energy expansion and accompanying environmental benefits, including reductions in carbon dioxide emissions.”
“There are limits to what regulations accomplish without negative consequences, particularly as emissions standards push beyond technological and economic feasibility,” she argues, pointing to subcommittee reports. The subcommittee’s findings are similar to those first reported by The Center Square.
The U.S. oil and natural gas industry made accelerated progress in emissions reductions, according to an analysis published by the Environmental Partnership, The Center Square first reported. From 2011-2021, U.S. operators reduced methane emissions relative to production by 66% in the largest producing regions. The industry not only leads the world in oil and natural gas production, but “methane emissions from petroleum and natural gas systems have fallen,” the Partnership notes, because of “industry leadership, a motivated workforce and investment in new technologies.”
Risko also points to data published by the EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, which shows that between 2018 and 2022, total methane emissions volumes in each oil and natural gas producing basin in the U.S. declined significantly across the board. The Anadarko Basin (located in Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas) saw the largest decrease in total volume of emissions, the group notes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 77% over five years.
“Notably, operators were able to reduce absolute methane emissions while increasing domestic production to record levels,” Risko said. “It is possible to have energy security and reduce emissions – a fact the U.S. oil and natural gas industry continues to demonstrate.”
Texas-based organizations also argue companies in the Permian Basin produce some of the cleanest natural gas in the world. A recent Texans for Natural Gas report found that among the top 12 oil and natural gas producing countries, if Texas and the Permian Basin were their own countries, they’d rank 10th and 13th, respectively, for having the lowest flared volumes. Russia has the greatest volume, followed by Iraq and Iran.
From 2011 to 2021, methane emissions intensity in the Permian Basin fell by more than 76% as production increased by over 345%, the report found. It also fell by 20% from 2020-2021, according to the Texans for Natural Gas analysis.
To put this in perspective, the Permian Basin accounts for nearly 40% of all oil production and nearly 15% of natural gas production in the U.S.
“The increase of more affordable natural gas in electric generation especially helped the United States achieve the largest absolute reduction in carbon dioxide emission of all countries in the world,” McMorris Rogers added, which reshaped world energy markets.
The Center Square first reported that the Texas natural gas industry provided a lifeline to European countries with nearly 75% of all U.S. exports going to Europe in the first of half of 2022. By the first half of 2023, the U.S. exported more natural gas than in any other previous six-month period, led by Texas and Louisiana. U.S. petroleum exports also set a new record in the first half of 2023 with record production coming from the Permian Basin.

Burden winter activities begin Saturday

Fri, 12/01/2023 - 7:33am

By JOHNNY MORGAN, LSU AgCenter

BATON ROUGE — As we approach the end of the calendar year, winter events are getting underway at Burden Museum & Gardens. Activities celebrate the season in festive and fun ways.
Holiday and winter events
Bring the children for StoryTime at Burden presented by the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens and the Junior League of Baton Rouge. The first winter StoryTime is from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Pavillion. Children can participate in storybook readings and arts and crafts.
This event is suited for children ages 3-8, but children of all ages are welcome. Admission is free, and registration is not required. The dates for other winter StoryTime events are Jan. 20 at Arbor Day and Feb. 10 at the Pavilion.
Ring in the season with A Rural Life Christmas at the LSU Rural Life Museum on Sunday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The event features a 19th century Louisiana celebration including musical groups, demonstrating artisans, storytellers and costumed re-enactors. A Rural Life Christmas will conclude with a bonfire and a special guest. Tickets are available at bontempstix.com.
On Dec. 9, from 7 to 9 a.m., nature enthusiasts can participate in Birding at Burden — a two-hour guided tour led by different birding specialists through the birding loops at Burden. Species such as northern mockingbirds, ruby-throated hummingbirds, seven different woodpeckers, waterfowl and wading birds, and a variety of resident migratory songbirds may be seen.
Admission is $10. The capacity for each excursion is limited to 15 guests. Registration is available at https://bit.ly/40R1AZ1.
On Jan. 20, the Botanic Garden partners with Baton Rouge Green to bring Arbor Day at Burden from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visitors can participate in tree climbing with Bofinger’s Tree Service, a scavenger hunt, ax throwing with the Timber Tigers, shopping with local vendors and even a chance to meet Smokey Bear.
Visitors can also Plant their very own tree in the Burden Woods and track its growth using GPS coordinates. Newly planted trees help reforest the Burden Woods after previous hurricane seasons. Baton Rouge Green will host their annual tree giveaway in conjunction with Arbor Day.
The Icon Painting Workshop set Feb. 11 to 16, from 8 a.m. to 5p.m., will offer a thoughtful and meditative week-long retreat focusing on traditional painting techniques that date back 2,000 years.
The workshop is led by trained iconographers in the Ione Burden Conference Center. No artistic skill or previous painting experience is required, and all materials are provided by Friends of LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens. You can also bring your own brushes, Ott light or wet pallet if you prefer. Coffee and lunch are provided daily. Contact Diana Wells at dianawells1548@gmail.com for registration information.
The Baton Rouge Camellia Society will host the Camellia Show and Sale Feb. 17 from 1 to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is no admission for the show and sale and the public is invited.
Herb Day, set Feb. 24 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., is the perfect place to learn how to start an herb garden or refresh one you’ve already established. At Herb Day, there will be thousands of healthy herbs and All America Selections vegetable plants as well as local vendors and food trucks.
Herb Day will also feature an herbal tearoom and educational sessions on native medicinal plants, herbal container gardens and a historical and social overview of herbs. The event is an educational outdoor gardening event and plant sale hosted by the Baton Rouge unit of the Herb Society of America.
Continuing activities
The birding loops at Burden trail system consists of six loops that wind through Burden’s formal and informal gardens, grasslands, croplands, wetlands and forest. The loops are designed for both beginners and advanced bird enthusiasts. Kiosks about the birding loops can be found at the Rural Life Museum Visitors Center and the Ione Burden Conference Center.
Trees and Trails, a 3-mile system of pedestrian, recreational and educational trails in the Burden Woods, provides opportunities for hiking and interpretive and educational activities for youth and adults. The Mosaic Boardwalk at Black Swamp guides visitors through a hardwood swamp more than 200 years old. The trail system is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.
The Children’s Garden offers a place to learn about gardening and nutrition. This model garden also provides a location for youth-related organizations and individual families to experience the outdoors, focusing on vegetable, herb and butterfly garden plantings.
The Rose Garden is a part of the American Garden Rose Selections program, a nationwide network of approved public gardens, and the American Rose Trials for Sustainability program, maintaining an inventory of 1,100 plants representing 150 varieties. Starting each April, the Rose Garden offers an exclusive preview of the coming year’s outstanding new varieties.
Windrush Gardens comprises majestic live oaks and ancient crape myrtles to create a shady canopy over azaleas and camellias, evoking a sense of tranquility and peace. Steele Burden, who was influenced by the gardens of Europe and the surviving gardens of 19th century Louisiana plantations, designed Windrush. The winding paths are ideal for strolling and enjoying the 25 acres of landscaped spaces.
About Burden Museum & Gardens
Located at 4560 Essen Lane just off Interstate 10 in Baton Rouge, Burden Museum & Gardens is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and includes the LSU Rural Life Museum, the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens and Windrush Gardens.
The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens is an expansive collection of specialty gardens, woodlands, wetlands and arboreta. Trees and Trails offer 3 miles of serene walking paths through the Burden Woods. The Rose Garden, Children’s Garden and All-America Selections Display Garden showcase the beauty of plants and flowers and provide educational experiences for gardeners of all ages. No admission is charged to tour the gardens.
The LSU Rural Life Museum focuses on the ways of life of rural Louisiana during the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum also provides educational and research resources that advance an understanding of the material and cultural heritage of the region. Adjacent to the Rural Life Museum, the historic Windrush Gardens comprises 5 acres of semi-formal gardens of the Burden family.
Admission to the Botanic Gardens and Trees and Trails is free of charge and open daily 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission to the Rural Life Museum is $10 for adults 12 to 61, $9 for seniors and $8 for children 6 to 11. Admission to Windrush Gardens is $3 per person. Both are free for kids under 6. The LSU Rural Life Museum and Windrush Gardens are open daily 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on major holidays.

Man likes to invite others causing much inconvenience

Fri, 12/01/2023 - 7:29am

By Jeanne Phillips, ©United Features Syndicate

DEAR ABBY: Our son plays a college sport for which he receives four complimentary tickets for each game. It works out well because there are four of us in his immediate family.
However, my husband has been asking friends of his to join us at games by offering them free tickets. Our son then must find a teammate with unused tickets and ask for them. My husband gives no warning. He just announces a couple of days prior to a game that he has invited so and so. Then, on game day, we are responsible for getting these friends in and seated with us.
More than once, we haven’t been able to enter stadiums and see our son before games, or the beginning of a game, because his friends are late and he must stay behind to meet them.
My take is this: These are public sporting events. Our son is given tickets for IMMEDIATE family. If a friend expresses a desire to go to a game, send them the schedule and say, “Awesome! Here’s the schedule. See you there!” and recommend an online ticket vending site.
I think it’s inconsiderate to me and our son that my husband turns it into a three-ring circus. He thinks “the more the merrier” and isn’t concerned about the hassle he creates for our son or my feelings.
Am I being irrational?
IRRITATED IN THE EAST

DEAR IRRITATED: You are not being irrational. Your husband behaves this way because HE doesn’t have to bear the burden of the inconvenience he causes.
If you would like to put an end to what he has been doing, make HIM responsible for buying his friends’ tickets and missing the start of the game if they are late. Stop making it your problem and place it where it really belongs.

DEAR ABBY: I have a serious problem I have lived with for practically my whole life. I’m sloppy.
I am incapable of keeping my surroundings clean and taking care of my belongings. Each time I resolve to get busy and clean up my house or car or whatever, I become overwhelmed with anxiety and nothing gets done.
Being unable to keep my surroundings clean and take proper care of my possessions has led to some very unpleasant situations in the past. I can no longer afford to continue this pattern of behavior.
Please tell me what to do.
SLOPPY JOE IN INDIANA

DEAR JOE: You have already taken the first step, which is admitting you have a problem with which you need help.
You might feel less overwhelmed if you take on these projects one at a time. Start with one drawer or counter before moving on to the next.
An important next step would be to tell your doctor what has been going on, and ask for a referral to a psychotherapist who can help get to the root of your anxiety. Talking with a mental health professional and possibly taking medication could be helpful, and I hope you will consider it. I applaud you for reaching out. You are not alone in having this issue.
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To order “How to Write Letters for All Occasions,” send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby — Letter Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.

Public notices for Dec. 1, 2023

Fri, 12/01/2023 - 6:00am

PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
ST. MARY PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
District 3, 2023 Reroofing,
Phase 1
J. S. Aucoin Elementary School, Morgan City High School, Morgan City Junior High School,
Sealed bids will be received by St. Mary Parish School Board, LA Hwy 317, Centerville, Louisiana for ST. MARY PARISH SCHOOL BOARD District 3, 2023 Reroofing, Phase 1, until 2:00 PM, local time on Wednesday December 13, 2023, at the St. Mary Parish School Board Central Office Complex, Maintenance Office, LA Hwy 317, Centerville, Louisiana 70380, at which time and place said proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud. Electronic bids at www.centralbidding.com as allowed by Act 590 amended Title 38:2212 are acceptable. Any bids received after the above-mentioned time will be returned unopen-ed.
Each bid shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope bearing the title of the work, the name of the Bidder, the address, date and hour of the bid opening, and the State Contractor’s License Number. The bid shall be addressed as follows:
BID: ST. MARY PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
District 3, 2023 Reroofing, Phase 1
J. S. Aucoin Elementary School, Morgan City High School, Morgan City Junior High School
To: the St. Mary Parish School Board Central Office Complex, LA Hwy 317, Centerville, Louisiana
LICENSE NO. ————————
Failure to have the license number on the envelope will be result in the Bid being returned unopen-ed.
Bid documents will be posted on www.centralbidding.com. To view, download, and receive bid notices by e-mail, you will have to register with Central Auction House (CAH). Vendors/Contractors will have the option to submit their bids and bid bonds electronically or by paper copy. Contact Central Auction House at 1-866-570-9620 concerning any questions about this process.
PROJECT DES- CRIPTION: The project consists of St. Mary Parish School Board, District 3, 2023 Reroofing, Phase 1. The estimated construction cost for the Base Bid for this project is $2,400,000.00.
Prospective Contractors shall be licensed for Building Construction or Roofing Construction by the State of Louisiana and that license shall be in effect on the date of the bid.
Each proposal must be accompanied by a bid bond, a certified check, or cashier’s check in an amount equal to at least five percent (5%) of the amount bid, made payable without condition to the Owner as a guarantee that the bidder, if awarded the contract, will promptly execute the contract documents. Failure to do so will result in the bid/bids being declared nonresponsive and shall be cause for rejection. If a bid bond is provided it shall be on the attached form and only on the attached form and shall be dated on or before the bid date. The bid security of all bidders, except the three lowest, will be returned promptly after the canvas of bids.
A non-mandatory pre-bid conference, at which the scope of the project, contract time and other requirements can be discussed with prospective bidders, may be held at the project site. All bidders will be notified and are encouraged to attend.
Copies of the contract documents are on file for St. Mary Parish School Board, District 3, 2023 Reroofing, Phase 1 at the St. Mary Parish School Board Central Office Complex, Maintenance Of- fice, and at the office of the Architect, Carl P. Blum AIA Architect, 900 David Drive, Morgan City, Louisiana, and are open for inspection without charge.
Contractors may obtain contract documents from the Architect by paying a deposit of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00). The full amount of the deposit, on the first set, will be refunded to each contractor who submits a bona fide bid, upon return of the documents in good condition within ten (10) days after the receipt of bids. Contractors and Material Dealers may obtain additional sets of plans and specifications by making a deposit in the amount named above. Upon return of these documents, in good condition, one half of the deposit will be refunded, the difference representing the cost of printing, assembling, and distributing the sets. No refund will be made on any set not returned in good condition within ten (10) days after the receipt of bids.
If someone other than a corporate officer signs for the Bidder/Contractor, a copy of a corporate resolution or other signature authorization shall be required for submission of bid. Failure to include a copy of the appropriate signature authorization, if required, may result in the rejection of the bid unless bidder has complied with LA R.S. 38:22:12(A)(1)(C) or LA R.S. 38:22:12(0).
A bid will be considered responsive if it conforms in all respects with the conditions and requirements of the Bidding Documents. In order to be considered re- sponsive, the Louisiana Uniform Public Works Bid Form must: (a) be fully completed, signed and be responsive in all respects to the Bidding Documents; (b) be made on the Bid Forms provided and submitted intact, (c) submitted in ink.
No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for thirty (30) days.
To the extent permitted by applicable state and federal laws and regulations, St. Mary Parish School Board reserves the right to reject any and/or proposals for just cause.
St. Mary Parish School Board.
Adv. Nov. 17, 24 and Dec. 1, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Recreation District # 3
Bayou Vista Community Center
1333 Belleview St.
P.O. Box 635
Patterson, La. 70392
985-395-6552
The Board of Commissioners of St. Mary Parish Recreation District # 3 met in regular session on Monday,
October 23, 2023 at 5:30 p.m., in the meeting room, with Chairman, Brian Head, presiding.
Present: Brian Head-Chairman, Lane Boudreaux-Vice Chairman, Javon Charles, Dr. Jeffrey Fitter, Eddie Gay, Calvin Johnson and Rachel Kidder
Facility Man-ager: Mark Richard
Office Manager: Angie Guillotte
Secretary-Trea-surer: Monica Lestage
Guests: none
Mr. Head called the meeting to order.
All stood for the pledge of allegiance.
Roll was called. All board members were present.
Minutes of the September 2023 meeting were ap- proved as circulated by motion from Calvin Johnson. With a second by Javon Charles, and all in favor, motion carried.
Accounts payable were re- viewed. Javon Charles offered a motion to pay the bills. Lane Boud-reaux offered a second. With all in favor, motion carried.
Mark gave the Community Cen-ter Report. Rentals were as follows: 1 gym rental, 4 meeting room, 7 events at the clubhouse, 5 Noah’s Pavilion, 2 marquee rentals and the Sheriff’s Dept. Night Out Against Crime, at no charge.
Mr. Richard proceeded with the manager/maintenance report. The playground equipment installation has been completed. Harris Refrig-eration repaired a leak to the air on the kitchen unit. The new transformer was in- stalled in the gym closet. Christmas bulbs have been ordered to get the string lights ready. Corn cob bulbs are needed in the gym to brighten the space. 300 watt bulbs are $225. per bulb. Fifteen is needed for a total of $3,375.00. Motion was made by Dr. Fitter to purchase the bulbs. With a second from Calvin Johnson, and all in favor, motion carried.
There was no old business.
A Fall Festival has been planned for Halloween night. A budget of $500. for candy and supplies
was approved by motion from Eddie Gay, seconded by Javon Charles, and approved by all.
A Christmas lighting ceremony will be held No- vember 20, 2023. Plans are in progress by Angie and Callie to have a gathering with the community to celebrate the holiday season along with the 30 year anniversary of the Bayou Vista Com-munity Center. A budget of $1,000. was approved by motion from Javon Carles. With a second from Calvin Johnson, and all in favor, motion carried.
Javon wanted to clarify that he would attend some presentations at the Parks and Recreation Con-vention, by commuting and not lodging there.
A discussion was held concerning the spending limit for the facility manager. Emer-gency situations, such as the transformer, motors, etc. can be costlier than the current allowed dollar amount. Javon Charles made a motion to approve a limit of $5,000., if approved by both the Chairman and Vice Chairman. Motion carried after a second from Dr. Fitter, and all in favor.
Accident procedures were discussed. An employee sustained an injury but did not report it until a few days later. The employee was paid for 1 day, as per parish policy. LWCC sets standards for on the job injuries. In the future, an incident report must be filed at the time it happens. The employee will be sent to an occupational physician and follow drug screen protocol.
Carl Blum re- quested pre ap- proval to pursue roof bids. Mr. Head read correspondence from Mr. Blum stating that he had not re- ceived, from the facility planner, approval for re- vised roofing plans. He would like to proceed with bids as soon as the approval is received. Javon Charles suggested checking with Eric Duplantis. Motion was made by Javon Charles that if Eric Du- plantis approves, Carl Blum may proceed. With a second by Dr. Fitter, and all in favor, motion carried.
Activities Direc-tor, Calley Williams, is re- questing an extra two hours a week to open the gym to school board em- ployees for fitness activities, beginning in January. Rachel Kidder made the motion to approve the request. After a second from Lane Boudreaux, and all in favor, motion carried.
Agin Cajun will be hosting a Medicare clinic November 1, 15 & 29, 2023, in conjunction with People’s Health. Javon suggested informing St Mary Council on Aging to help inform the public.
Javon Charles informed the board that the open meetings law has been updated.
There being no further business, motion to adjourn was offered by Javon Charles. With a second from Eddie Gay, and all in favor, motion passed.
(S) Brian Head
Brian Head,
Chairman
(S) Monica Lestage
Monica Lestage,
Secretary
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ISSUE NOT EXCEEDING $7,000,000 OF TAXABLE UTILITIES REVENUE BONDS OF THE CITY OF MORGAN CITY, STATE OF
LOUISIANA
As provided by a resolution adopted by the Morgan City Council (the “Governing Auth- ority”), acting as the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, State of Louisiana (the “City”), on November 28, 2023, the City HEREBY DE- CLARES ITS INTENTION to issue up to Seven Million Dollars ($7,000,000) of Taxable Utilities Revenue Bonds (the “Bonds”) for the purpose of paying a portion of the costs of constructing and acquiring improvements, extensions, and replacements to the drinking water component of the City’s combined utility system comprised of the electric light and power plants and systems, the drink-ing water plants and systems, and the natural gas transmission and distribution plants and systems (collectively, the “System”).
The Bonds shall be limited and special revenue bonds of the City and shall be secured by and payable, equally with the City’s outstanding Utilities Revenue Bonds, Series 2009B, solely from the income and revenues derived or to be derived from the operation of the System, after provision has been made for payment therefrom of all reasonable and necessary expenses of operating and maintaining the System. The Bonds will not be a charge on the other in- come and revenues of the City, nor shall they constitute an indebtedness or pledge of the general credit of the City. The Bonds will be issued pursuant to Part II of Chapter 4 of Subtitle II of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority (the “Act”).
The Bonds will be issued in one or more series as authorized by ordinance(s) adopted by the Governing Authority, will mature not later than 30 years from their date of issuance, will bear interest at rates not more than 2.45% per annum, and will be subject to prepayment anytime without penalty.
As provided by the Act, all of the other details of the Bonds will be set forth in the ordinance(s) authorizing their issuance, including the following: covenants relating to the management and operation of the System, the imposition and collection of rates and charges from the System’s customers, the expenditure of such rates and charges, the issuance of future bonds and the creation of future liens and encumbrances against the System and all other pertinent matters as may be necessary to the authorization and issuance of the Bonds.
The Bonds are expected to be sold at a private sale, as provided for in the Act, to the Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund of the State of Louisiana, and the Bonds will also be approved by the State Bond Commission prior to their delivery.
THE PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED that the Governing Authority will meet in open and public session on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at six o’clock (6:00) p.m., at the City Court Building, 7261 Hwy. 182 East, Morgan City, Louisiana 70380, to hear any objections to the proposed issuance of the Bonds. If at such hearing a petition duly signed by electors of the City in a number not less than five percent (5%) of the number of such electors voting in the last election held in the City object to the issuance of the Bonds, then the Bonds shall not be issued until ap- proved at an election held for that purpose. Any such petition must be accompanied by a certificate of the St. Mary Parish Registrar of Voters certifying that the signers of the petition(s) are registered electors of the City and the number of signers amounts to not less than five percent (5%) of the registered voters that voted in the last election held in the City, all as provided by the Act.
CITY OF MORGAN CITY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
Adv. Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY LEVEE
DISTRICT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
HEARING
December 21, 2023 – 6:00 p.m. – 7327 Hwy 182 E
The amended budget for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023 and the proposed budget for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024 are being prepared by the St. Mary Levee District and are available for public inspection at the office of the St. Mary Levee District at 7327 Hwy 182E Morgan City, LA 70380. Notice is given that a public hearing and meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the St. Mary Levee District (“District”) will be held at the 7327 Hwy 182E, Morgan City, Louisiana on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. to hold a public hearing upon and thereafter consider and act upon the adoption of the District’s (a) amended budget for its fiscal year ending December 31, 2023, and (b) proposed budget for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024 for the following purposes and to take appropriate action thereon, to wit:
AGENDA
1. Consider adoption of an amended budget for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023;
Summary
Budget
Proposed amended Revenues $ 3,582,234.69, Proposed
Proposed amended Expenditures $ 3,038,687.37
Amended Revenues over Expenditures $ 480,637.32
Beginning Fund Balance $ 8,091,708.78
Amended ending fund balance $ 8,572,346.10
2. Consider adoption of the District’s budget for fiscal year commencing January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024.
Summary
Budget
Proposed Revenues $ 3,002,400.00
Proposed Expenditures $ 2,748,119.00
Proposed Expenditures over revenues $ 254,281.00
Beginning Fund Balance $ 8,572,346.10
Proposed ending fund balance $ 8,826,627.10
St. Mary Levee District
/s/ William H. Hidalgo, Sr,
President
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Fire Protection
District No. 3
Post Office
Box 921
Amelia,
Louisiana 70340
August 15, 2023
The regular meeting was called to order by Mr. Aucoin, at 6:00 pm
Members present: Bonnie Du- hon, Larry Aucoin, Clint Abshire, Tom Nguyen
Members ab- sent: Absent
Guests in attendance: Jason Brown
Public Comment: None
A motion was made by Mrs. Duhon and seconded by Mr. Abshire to accept the minutes from the July 2023 meeting. All were in favor. Motion carried.
A motion was made by Mrs. Du- hon and seconded by Mr. Abshire to approve the Treasurer’s Report from July 2023. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Guest: None
New Business: A motion to pay out unused vacation days to Jason Brown and Bobby Guidry III was made by Mrs. Duhon and seconded by Mr. Abshire. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Old business: None
Fire Chief Brown presented the Board with bills and time sheets.
A motion to adjourn was made by Mrs. Duhon and seconded by Mr. Abshire, all were in favor.
Meeting ended at 6:07pm.
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Fire Protection
District No. 3
Post Office
Box 921
Amelia,
Louisiana 70340
September 19, 2023
The budget/regular meeting was called to order by Mr. Aucoin, at 6:00 pm
Members present: Larry Aucoin, Royal Young, Denise Chaisson, Joey Foret
Members ab- sent: Clint Abshire
Guests in attendance: Jason Brown and Tim Matte
Public Comment: None
A motion was made by Mr. Foret and seconded by Mrs. Chaisson to accept the minutes from the August 2023 meeting. All were in favor. Motion carried.
A motion was made by Mr. Foret and seconded by Mrs. Chaisson to approve the Treasurer’s Report from August 2023. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Guest: Mr. Matte addressed the Board regarding the engagement letter for the audit review for 2022/2023. Mr. Foret made a motion to allow the Chairman to sign the engagement letter with Pitts and Matte for (2) years. Second by Mrs. Chaisson. All were in favor. Motion carried.
New Business: A motion to amend the operating budget of revenues and expenditures for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2022 and ending September 30, 2023 was made by Mr. Foret and seconded by Mr. Young. All were in favor. Motion carried. A motion to approve and adopt an operating budget of revenues and expenditures for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2023 and ending September 30, 2024 was made by Mr. Foret, second by Mrs. Chaisson. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Old business: None
Fire Chief Brown presented the Board with bills and time sheets.
A motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Aucoin and seconded by Mr. Young, all were in favor.
Meeting ended at 6:19pm.
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Board of Adjustments will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on MONDAY, De- cember 4, 2023 AT 5:45 P.M. in the Parish Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana, for the following purposes:
Myron Bourque for a Side yard setback variance to deviate from the required 25’ to 10’ located in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District at 1138 Victoria Riverside Road., Patterson, LA-Sec. 25 T15S R12E; -Parcel Id# 2954364036.00 Lot 6 Per Plat 37I 246738 The resub of lots 10-A 10-B 10-C Riverside Est Per Plat 30Q 220249 Acq. 404 335614.
All persons are invited to this meeting to submit their approval or objections to the above VARIANCE REQUEST.
St. Mary Parish
Board of Adjustments
John P. Davis,
Chairman
Adv. Nov. 17, 24 and Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Fire Protection
District No. 3
Post Office
Box 921
Amelia, Louisiana 70340
October 17, 2023
The regular meeting was called to order by Mr. Aucoin, at 6:00 pm
Members present: Larry Aucoin, Denise Chaisson, Joey Foret, Clint Abshire.
Members ab- sent: Royal Young
Guests in attendance: Jason Brown
Public Comment: None
A motion was made by Mr. Foret and seconded by Mr. Abshire to accept the minutes from the September 2023 meeting. All were in favor. Motion carried.
A motion was made by Mr. Foret and seconded by Mr. Abshire to approve the Treasurer’s Report from August 2023. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Guest: None
New Business: The election of new officers was tabled. A motion to add and remove Bonnie Duhon from the bank accounts and add Mr. Foret was made by Mr. Abshire and seconded by Mr. Foret. All were in favor, motion carried. There was discussion about the rules and ordinances of the requirements of the Board.
Old business: An update on the progress for direct deposit payroll.
Fire Chief Brown presented the Board with bills and time sheets.
A motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Abshire and seconded by Mrs. Chaisson, all were in favor.
Meeting ended at 6:12pm.
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Fire Protection District 7
Notice Posted: 11/27/2023 at 8:00pm
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
MEETING
A public meeting will be held as follows:
DATE: December 5, 2023 at 6:00pm
PLACE OF MEETING: 1519 Hwy 182, Morgan City, LA 70380
AGENDA:
Call to order
Roll Call: Myron Bourque, Bryan Roy, Jason Hunt, David Picou, Lana Luke,
Christina Lan-dry, Kevin Kinslow, Chief Gerald Price.
Public Comment/Questions.
Approval of minutes from September’s meeting.
Approval of minutes from November’s meeting.
Reports:
•Treasurer:
•Spreadsheet of bills paid
•Review outstanding bills if any
•Review purchase orders ap- proved that is waiting on bills
•Authorized signatures on checking account
•Fire Chief and/or Kevin Kinslow – updates, questions, concerns
Old Business: None
New Business:
•Presentation of any requisitions/quotes for new purchases
•Open the floor for any new business
Adjournment
Christina Landry,
Office Manager
Taxing District: St Mary Parish
Address:
1519 Hwy 182
Bayou Vista, LA 70380
Phone:
985-714-5022
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Christina at 985-714-5022 des- cribing the assistance that is needed.
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ORDINANCE
NO. 2348
An Ordinance authorizing the Parish of St. Mary to enter into a Fourth Amendment to the Lease Agreement with Odyssey House Louisiana, Inc. relative to the lease of property known as Fairview Treatment Center/Claire House located at 1101 Southeast Blvd., Bayou Vista, Louisiana.
BE IT ORDAINED by the St. Mary Parish Council, in regular session convened:
SECTION 1. That the Parish of St. Mary enter into a fourth amendment to the Lease Agreement with Odyssey House Louisiana, Inc. relative to the lease of property known as Fairview Treatment Center/Claire House located at 1101 Southeast Blvd., Bayou Vista, Louisiana., all in accordance with the basic terms and conditions contained in Exhibit “A”, at- tached hereto.
SECTION 2. That David Hanagriff, Parish President is authorized to execute such lease amendment on behalf of the Parish Council.
SECTION 3. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
This ordinance shall become effective upon adoption.
This ordinance having been offered and read on this 25th day of October 2023; having been published in accordance with law; having been heard in a public hearing held at Franklin, Louisiana on the 15 day of November 2023; was adopted by the following vote on the 15th day of November 2023.
AYES: Rev. Craig Mathews, Rodney Olander, Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick J. Hebert, Mark A. Duhon, Dean S. Adams, Dr. Kristi P. Rink, and Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo.
NAYS: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
ABSENT: J Ina, Scott Ramsey, and James W. Bennett, Jr.
APPROVED:
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
s/g Lisa C.
Morgan
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
This Ordinance was submitted to the President of St. Mary Parish on this the 17th day of November 2023 at the hour of 11:49 a.m.
APPROVED:
s/g David
Hanagriff
DAVID
HANAGRIFF,
PRESIDENT
ST. MARY PARISH
This Ordinance was returned to the Clerk of the Council on this the 21st day of November 2023 at the hour 9:58 a.m.
The Exhibits to this ordinance have not been published. Said Exhibits are on file with the minutes of the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana, Courthouse, 5th Floor, Franklin Louisiana 70538, and are available for inspection during regular business hours weekdays, Monday through Friday.
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ORDINANCE
NO. 2349
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits granting a Specific Use.
WHEREAS, on March 12, 2014, the St. Mary Parish Council adopted Ordinance No. 1973 – St. Mary Parish Unified Development Code, and
WHEREAS, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits provides a process for the granting of a specific use, and
THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAIN-ED by the Parish Council of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, acting as the governing authority of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana:
SECTION I - That certain tract of land described in Exhibit “A” is hereby approved and granted a specific use for a correctional institution or facilities (public or private) (motor pool and substation) in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District.
This ordinance shall become effective and be in full force upon publication in the official journal of the Parish.
This ordinance having been offer-ed and read on this the 25th day of October 2023, having been published in accordance with law and having been heard in a public meeting in Franklin, Louisiana on the 15th day of November 2023; was adopted by the following vote on the 15th day of November 2023.
AYES: Rev. Craig Mathews, Rodney Olander, Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick J. Hebert, Mark A. Duhon, Dean S. Adams, Dr. Kristi P. Rink, and Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo.
NAYS: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
ABSENT: J Ina, Scott Ramsey, and James W. Bennett, Jr.
APPROVED:
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
s/g Lisa C.
Morgan
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
This Ordinance was submitted to the President of St. Mary Parish on this the 17th day of November 2023 at the hour of 11:49 a.m.
APPROVED:
s/g David
Hanagriff
DAVID
HANAGRIFF,
PRESIDENT
ST. MARY PARISH
This Ordinance was returned to the Clerk of the Council on this the 21st day of November 2023 at the hour 9:58 a.m.
The Exhibits to this ordinance have not been published. Said Exhibits are on file with the minutes of the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana, Courthouse, 5th Floor, Franklin Louisiana 70538, and are available for inspection during regular business hours weekdays, Monday through Friday.
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ORDINANCE
NO. 2350
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Rezonings (Zoning Map Amendments).
WHEREAS, on March 12th, 2014, the St. Mary Parish Council adopted Ordinance No. 1973 – St. Mary Parish Unified Development Code, and
WHEREAS, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Rezonings (Zoning Map Amendments) provides a process for the official zoning district map to be amended, and
THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAIN-ED by the Parish Council of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, acting as the governing authority of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana:
SECTION I - That certain tract of land described in Exhibit “A” is hereby rezoned from to rezone from Existing Neighborhood (EN1) to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) to allow for Manufactured Homes and Recreational Vehicles (RV’s).
This ordinance shall become effective and be in full force upon publication in the official journal of the Parish.
This ordinance having been offered and read on this the 25th day of October 2023, having been published in accordance with law and having been heard in a public meeting in Franklin, Louisiana on the 15th day of November 2023; was adopted by the following vote on the 15th day of November 2023.
AYES: Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick J. Hebert, Mark A. Duhon, Dean S. Adams, Dr. Kristi P. Rink, Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo and Rev. Craig Mathews.
NAYS: None.
ABSTAIN: Rodney Olander.
ABSENT: J Ina, Scott Ramsey, and James W. Bennett, Jr.
APPROVED:
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
s/g Lisa C.
Morgan
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
This Ordinance was submitted to the President of St. Mary Parish on this the 17th day of November 2023 at the hour of 11:49 a.m.
APPROVED:
s/g David
Hanagriff
DAVID
HANAGRIFF,
PRESIDENT
ST. MARY PARISH
This Ordinance was returned to the Clerk of the Council on this the 21st day of November 2023 at the hour 9:58 a.m.
The Exhibits to this ordinance have not been published. Said Exhibits are on file with the minutes of the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana, Courthouse, 5th Floor, Franklin Louisiana 70538, and are available for inspection during regular business hours weekdays, Monday through Friday.
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Planning Commission will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Monday, December 18, 2023 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 Lance Barrilleaux from Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District to Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 935 Prairie Rd., Franklin, LA -Sec.48/49 T15S R10E;
-Parcel Id# 2534481078.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCD” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 48 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822 &
-Parcel Id# 2534481047.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCG” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 49 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822. Improvement on The Land of Barrilleaux Lance J Acq. 450 34822.
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. Dec. 1, 8 and 15, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
GOVERNMENT
ADJUDICATED PROPERTY SALE ADVERTISEMENT
BY VIRTUE OF THE AUTH- ORITY VESTED IN ME BY THE CONSTITUTION AND THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF LOUISIANA, I WILL SELL, AT CIVICSOURCE.COM, WITHIN THE LEGAL HOURS FOR JUDICIAL SALES BEGINNING AT 8:00 O’CLOCK A.M. ON THE 7th DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2024 AND CONTINUING UNTIL SAID SALES ARE COMPLETED, TITLE TO IMMOVABLE PROPERTY ON WHICH TAXES WERE ADJUDICATED TO THE ST. MARY PARISH GOVERNMENT, TO EN- FORCE COLLECTION OF TAXES. THE NAMES OF SAID DELINQUENT TAX DEBTORS AND THE LEGAL DES- CRIPTION FOR EACH OF THE PROPERTIES TO BE OFFER-ED FOR SALE ARE AS FOLLOWS:
WILLIAMS ISABELLA GUY
204 TALBOT ST, FRANKLIN, LA 70538 TAXES OWED ARE WITH THAT CERTAIN LOT KNOWN, DESIGNATED AND DESCRIBED AS LOT NO. 55 AS SHOWN UPON A MAP OF BOUDREAUX AND TALBOT’S ADDITION TO THE TOWN OF FRANKLIN, RECORDED IN BOOK 4-D OF CONVEYANCES, PAGE 252, ON FEBRUARY 5, 1923. SAID LOT MEASURING FIFTY (50) FEET FRONT ON TALBOT’S STREET AND EXTENDING BACK BETWEEN PARALLEL LINES TO A TEN FOOT ALLEY OR STREET IN THE REAR AND WHICH IS MORE PARTICULARLY BOUNDED AS FOLLOWS, TO- WIT: ON THE NORTH BY LOT NO. 54; ON THE SOUTH BY LOT NO. 58; ON THE EAST BY TEN (10) FOOT ALLEY AND ON THE WEST BY TALBOT’S STREET.
THIS PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING:
1. OIL, GAS AND MINERAL LEASE RECORDED ON 02/24/1977 AT C.O.B. 20-F/857 IN THE RECORDS OF ST. MARY PARISH.
2234701141.00
ON THE DAY OF SALE I WILL SELL THE PROPERTY TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER. THE SALE WILL BE WITHOUT AP- PRAISEMENT, FOR CASH OR OTHER PAYMENT METHODS ACCEPTABLE TO THE TAX COLLECTOR, IN LEGAL TENDER MONEY OF THE UNITED STATES, AND A NON-WARRANTY CASH SALE CERTIFICATE SHALL BE ISSUED TO THE PURCHASER FOR THE PROPERTY.
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
THIS NOTICE BY PUBLICATION IS NOTIFICATION THAT YOUR RIGHTS OR INTEREST IN THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE PARISH OF ST. MARY, LOUISIANA MAY BE TERMINATED BY OPERATION OF LAW IF YOU DO NOT TAKE FURTHER ACTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH LAW:
Tax Bill 2234701141.00
ISABELLA GUY WILLIAMS, THE PARISH OF ST. MARY, THE CITY OF FRANKLIN, KATE L. GIBSON, LAURA M. GIBSON, ELLEN H. GIBSON, GERTRUDE A. GIBSON, TORRANCE ARMIN WILLIAMS, THAIHEVIA DETRICE WILLIAMS BROWDER, DR. LIZANDRA CLARISSA WILLIAMS GODWIN, LANI LANE ALEX, LAURA BROUSSARD JOSHUA
LOT 55 BOUDREAUX - TALBOT ADDN
ACQ 371 330481
Improvements thereon bear Municipal No. 204 Talbot St, Franklin, LA 70538
TAX SALE TITLE TO THE ABOVE DES-CRIBED PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR FAILURE TO PAY TAXES. YOU HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED AS A PERSON WHO MAY HAVE AN INTEREST IN THIS PROPERTY.
YOUR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY WILL BE TERMINATED IF YOU DO NOT REDEEM THE PROPERTY BY MAKING ALL REQUIRED PAYMENTS TO THE TAX COLLECTOR LISTED BELOW OR FILE A LAWSUIT IN ACCORDANCE WITH LAW WITHIN 60 DAYS OF THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE, OR THE RE- CORDING OF AN ACT TRANSFERRING OWNERSHIP, IF LATER.
ST. MARY PARISH SHERIFF
500 MAIN STREET
4TH FLOOR
FRANKLIN, LA 70538
(337) 828-6979
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF
PATTERSON
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
MEETING
December 5, 2023
A Public Meeting will be held as follows:
DATE: December 5, 2023
TIME: 6:00 PM
PLACE OF MEETING: City Hall, Council Meeting Room, 1314 Main Street, Patterson, Louisiana 70392
AGENDA
********
1) MEETING CALLED TO ORDER BY THE MAYOR
2) INVOCATION
3) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4) ROLL CALL
5) APPROVAL OF THE November 7, 2023, MINUTES.
6) SUBMISSION OF MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
7) PUBLIC COMMENT
8) GUEST
1) Angelena Brocato – St. Mary Parish Hospital Dist – give an update on the services of the hospital
2) Tina Johnson / Sandra Turner – approval for a 5K Run on April 13, 2024, benefiting a scholarship fundraiser.
8) UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1) Resolution for Vending Machines
9) NEW BUSINESS
1) Introduction of Housing Authority Executive Director, Chairperson and Assistant Chairperson
10) AN- NOUNCEMENTS
11) ENGINEERS REPORT
12) LEGAL MATTERS
13) ADJOURN
ANY AND ALL BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL WITH THEIR UNANIMOUS CONSENT
ADJOURN
Midge Bourgeois,
City Clerk
City of Patterson
1314 Main Street
Patterson, LA 70392
985-395-5205
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Midge Bourgeois at 985-395-5205 or email: midge.bourgeois@cityofpattersonla.gov describing the necessary assistance.
“City of Patterson is an Equal Opportunity
Provider and Employer”
Adv. Dec. 1, 2023

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Morgan City police make arrests on burglary, drug charges

Thu, 11/30/2023 - 3:44pm

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.)

Morgan City police reported arrests on burglary and drug possession charges.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that the Morgan City Police Department responded to 40 calls for service over the last 24-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Shannon Gail Wright, 33, Pecan Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 7:13 p.m. Wednesday on charges of simple burglary, two counts of theft (under $1,000), criminal trespassing, criminal damage to property and disturbing the peace (intoxicated).

--Alex Norberto Galindo, 18, Champion Street, Gray, was arrested at 8:29 p.m. Wednesday on charges of possession of THC, possession of tobacco by a person under 21 (nicotine vape), window tint violation and failure to appear for arraignment (16th Judicial District Court).

--Derrick Mayon Jr., 25, Florence Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 8:29 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of failure to appear for arraignment (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Christina Grace Williams, 33, Louisa Street, was arrested at 8:38 p.m. Wednesday on a charge of driving under suspension.

St. Mary

\Sheriff Blaise Smith reported that over the last 24-hour reporting period, the Sheriff's Office responded to 36 complaints and reported this arrest:

--Alyssa Marie Acosta, 31, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:29 a.m. Wednesday on charges of illegal possession of stolen firearms, possession of stolen things, resisting by force and criminal trespass.

Bail has not been set at this time.

JOANN MITCHELL

Thu, 11/30/2023 - 6:41am

JoAnn Mitchell, a resident of Gibson, died Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at her residence.

She is survived by two children, Justin Mitchell and Coty Mitchell; husband, Charles Mitchell Sr.; four grandchildren; two brothers, Randy Guidroz and Tony Guidroz; and two sisters, Kathy Gaspar and Brenda Kerr.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a son.

Visitation will be Thursday from 10 a.m. until services at 1:30 p.m. at Twin City Funeral Home, which is in charge of arrangements.

Marijuana, weapon charge follow Bayou L'Ourse-area arrest

Wed, 11/29/2023 - 1:26pm

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.)
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Assumption deputies reported a Bayou L'Ourse-area arrest on drug and gun charges, while St. Mary deputies and Franklin police made arrests on unauthorized entry charges.

Assumption

Sheriff Leland Falcon reported this arrest:

--Roshawn Lamarr Lewis, 33, Cedarwood Drive, New Iberia, was arrested Saturday charges of felon in possession of a firearm and possession of marijuana.

The arrest followed a traffic stop on U.S. 90 in the Bayou L'Ourse area.

A uniformed patrol deputy observed a vehicle with an equipment violation and executed a stop. The deputy made contact with the driver, now identified as Candon Patrick Jefferson, 33, Sparrow Street, New Iberia.

The deputy engaged the driver in an interview. The deputy noted an odor of suspected marijuana emitting from the vehicle.

The deputy proceeded to interview the passenger, now identified as Lewis. During a protective pat-down search, a quantity of marijuana was seized from the person of Lewis.

A K-9 conducted an open-air sniff of the suspect vehicle and alerted to the presence of controlled dangerous substances. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, a large-caliber handgun and additional marijuana was seized and was attributed to Lewis.

Deputies determined that Lewis was a convicted felon and therefore could not legally possess a firearm. Lewis was arrested and booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center and released on a $25,000 bond.

Jefferson was cited for tail lamps required, driving under a suspended driver's license and failure to secure registration.

Jefferson was released with a court date.

St. Mary

Sheriff Blaise Smith reported that over the last 24-hour reporting period, the Sheriff’s Office responded to 42 complaints and made these arrests:

--Tammy Lynn Sheridan, 59, Franklin, was arrested at 5:41 p.m. Tuesday on a charge of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Dowayne Charlot, 47, Patterson, was arrested at 6:03 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant alleging failure to appear. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Brennan Gaige Giandelone, 24, Patterson, was arrested on at 7:11 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of possession of amphetamine and possession of marijuana. Bail has not been set at this time.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that the Morgan City Police Department responded to 37 calls for service over the last 24-hour reporting period and made this arrest:
--Angilee Williams, 59, Louisiana Avenue, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:17 p.m. Tuesday on charges of bicycle front lamps required, resisting an officer and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy reported that the Franklin Police Department responded to 12 complaints over the last 24-hour reporting period and made this arrest:

--Kendell Johnson, 19, Seventh Street, Franklin, was arrested at 11:54 a.m. Tuesday on charges of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, battery of a police officer, resisting an officer with force and disturbing the peace (fighting).

Johnson was additionally arrested on warrants for 3rd Ward City Court alleging failure to appear on a charge of simple battery. Johnson was booked, processed and held on a $23,308 bond.