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UPDATED: Higgins, Graves vote for Jordan's failed bids to become speaker

Wed, 10/18/2023 - 5:26am
Staff Report

Both U.S. representatives who represent St. Mary Parish voted for U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan in both the Ohiol Republican's bids to become House speaker.

It's unclear what happens now as the House is being called on to deal with a looming government shutdown in mid-November, aid to Isareal after the Hamas attack on Gaza and aid to Ukraine

U.S. Reps. Clay Higgins, R-Lafayette, and Garret Graves, R-Baton Rouge, were among the 200 Republicans who voted for Jordan Tuesday and the 198 who voted for him Wednesday.

Jordan needed 217 to succeed California Republican Kevin McCarthy, who was forced out of the speakership two weeks ago after a motion by U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Florida.

The other three Louisiana Republicans -- Julia Letlow of Start, Mike Johnson of Shreveport and Steve Scalise of Metairie -- also voted for Jordan both times.

Scalise had won the initial Republican caucus vote on a nominee to succeed McCarthy, but withdrew from consideration last week.

Nevertheless, Scalise drew seven voters for speaker in both the Tuesday and Wednesday votes.

Democrat Troy Carter of New Orleans voted for Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. All 212 House Democrats voted for Jeffries on both ballots.

McCarthy needed 15 ballots to win the speakership after Republicans took control of the House in January. As part of negotiations with the most conservative Republicans, McCarthy agreed to a rule that would allow a single House member to call for a vote to elect a new speaker.

That happened two weeks ago on the call from Gaetz.

Some House Republicans may have responded badly to what is reported to have been bare-knuckle lobbying by former President Donald Trump, who backs Jordan, and Jordan himself, who also issued calls for party unity after his defeat Tuesday.

Four House Republicans who voted for Jordan Tuesday cast different votes Wednesday: Vern Buchanan of Florida, Drew Ferguson of Georgia, Marianette-Meeks of Texas Pete Stauber of Minnesota.

Two representatives who had voted against Jordan on Tuesday switched their votes Wednesday: Doug of LaMalfa of California and Victoria Sparks of Indiana.

Scalise's abortive bid for speaker marked the second time in 25 years that a Louisiana representative came within a whisper of the powerful post, which is second in line in the presidential succession and which determines which and when legislation comes to the House floor.

Conservative Republicans revolted against Speaker Newt Gingrich, R-Georgia, in 1998, after the impeachment of President Bill Clinton failed to remove him from office and the GOP took a beating in the mid-term elections.

Next in line was Bob Livingston, who represented the same district that elected Scalise and rose to the chairmanship of the House Appropriations Committee. But the public disclosure by porn king Larry Flynt that Livingston had an extramarital affair forced him to resign after he was elected as speaker.

Seven arrests in Morgan City, four involving marijuana or alcohol

Tue, 10/17/2023 - 1:47pm
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.)

The Morgan City Police Department reported seven arrests since Friday, including four related to alcohol or marijuana use.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that over the last 96-hour reporting period, the Morgan City Police Department responded to 151 calls for service and made these arrests:

--Randy L. Hatcher, 44, Aucoin Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:06 a.m. Monday on a charge of disturbing the peace (drunkenness).

--Jacob G. Fernandez, 36, Bush Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 12:05 p.m. Monday on a warrant alleging simple assault.

--Anthony James Bourgeois Jr., 48, Iowa Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:13 a.m. Friday on charges of possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving under suspension.

--Jacqueline Charles Jupiter, 57, Leona Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 11 a.m. Friday on a charge of failure to appear for arraignment (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Juan Jose Flores, 39, Graves Road, Norcross, Georgia, was arrested at 2:53 a.m. Saturday on charges of careless operation of a motor vehicle and no driver's license.

--Juan Carbrera-Melo, 43, North Inspiration Road, Mission, Texas, was arrested at 2:24 a.m. Sunday on charges of driving while intoxicated (first offense), possession of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle and reckless operation of a motor vehicle.

--Michael Anthony Francois, 32, Grove Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 4:14 a.m. Sunday on charges of criminal damage to property and possession of marijuana.

Kathleen Ann LeBlanc Bailey

Tue, 10/17/2023 - 9:03am

Kathleen Ann LeBlanc Bailey, a native of New Orleans who was raised in Harvey, passed away at the age of 71 during the late evening hours of Monday, October 2, 2023, surrounded by family at Bayou Bend Health System in Franklin, following a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer. This side of eternity is a darker place now that she is gone. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to have known her.
Kathy, as she was affectionately known, was born on June 27, 1952, and was the eldest of six children born to the union of Aubrey and Lois LeBlanc. A 1970 graduate of L.W. Higgins High School in Marrero, she went on to receive her bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, in accounting from Holy Cross College in New Orleans. Kathy worked for various companies in the New Orleans area, including the former Louisiana Gas Company and its successors, the Archdiocese of New Orleans Long Term Healthcare Services and VIA LINK, a non-profit organization that provides 211 information and other services.
Kathy and her husband Ron moved to Franklin in December of 2011 where she blended right in, becoming a member of the Franklin Garden Club, the Franklin Fortnightly, and the St. Mary Chapter of the Louisiana Landmarks Society. She also served as a community volunteer member on the Board of the St. Mary Parish Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Acadiana. Prior to moving to Franklin, Kathy became a lifetime member of the Thyroid Cancer Survivors Association and was a New Orleans-area facilitator for the organization. Her many passions included her gardens, especially her peach roses, reading and the camaraderie of her Samba and canasta card groups and dominoes with neighbors. Kathy never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone she came across.
Those she leaves to cherish her memory include her husband of 32 years, Ronald Bailey; her beloved son, Jeffrey Perque and his husband John Creasy; three grandchildren, Paul, Brandon, and Lindsey; two great grandchildren, Savannah and Isla; five siblings, Cindy Galey and her husband Clifford, Aubrey LeBlanc Jr., Nancy Roberts and her husband Pat, Gail Boudreaux and her husband Daniel, and Bobby LeBlanc and his wife Maggie; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, godchildren, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Aubrey Joseph LeBlanc Sr., a native of Marrero, and Marguerite Lois Falcon LeBlanc, a native of Belle Alliance, Louisiana as well as by many dear family members.
Memorial services were held Tuesday, October 17, at 7 p.m. at Ibert’s Mortuary in Franklin, with Father Joel Faulk officiating. Friends were invited to join the family for the visitation at Ibert’s which began at 4:30 p.m.
Memorial services were also held in Harvey at Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Expy, Harvey, La., on Thursday, October 19, at 7 p.m. with visitation which began at 5 p.m.
The family would like to thank their healthcare family at Franklin Foundation Hospital (now Bayou Bend Health System) for their long-time friendship, kindness, and outstanding compassionate care. They would also like to thank the staff at the Cancer Center of Acadiana, the Infusion Therapy Department at Iberia Medical Center, Oncologics and Nursing Care Home Health.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests consideration of honoring Kathy’s memory through contributions to the Thyroid Cancer Survivors Association (thyca.org) or the American Cancer Society.
Family and friends may view the obituary and express their condolences online by visiting www.iberts.com.
Arrangements were entrusted to Ibert’s Mortuary, Inc.

Bayou Horseshoe Pitchers Association scores

Mon, 10/16/2023 - 3:32pm

Summer League - 2023
Week 12 – Final
League Champions: Ring A Roos; Warren Raymond (team captain), Tim Gilmore, Glenn Caillouet and Calvin Johnson.
.......................................W L
Ring A Roos...................71 37
Double Ringers..............64 44
Half & Half......................63 45
Wknd @ Burnies...........61.5 46.5
75/25.............................52.5 46.5
High scratch point average: (30’) Gilmore 83.7, Burnie Williams 76.0 and Clay Canty 69.1; and (40’) Dale Pearce 50.9, Tim Hayles 49.9 and Caillouet 46.6.
High individual ringer percentage: (30’) Gilmore 62.2, Williams 51.4 and Canty 46.7; and (40’) Pearce 32.0, Hayles 28.2 and Caillouet 25.0.
High scratch game: (30’) Gilmore 111, Williams 95 and Canty 85; and (40’) Pearce 77, Hayles 76 and Jim Guzdial 61. Most ringers: (one night) Gilmore 85, Williams 84 and Clyde Landry 70; and (one game) Gilmore 36, Williams 28, Canty 26, Landry 26, Julius Lovell 25 and Hayles 22.
Most points one night: Gilmore 283, Williams 275, Landry 237, Canty 220 and Lovell 224. Best won-loss record: Gilmore 20-4, Lovell 24-9, Williams 20.5-9.5, Hayles 18-9 and Guzdial 12-6.
Most points one night – team: Wknd @ Burnies 652 and Half & Half 575. Most ringers one night – team: Wknd @ Burnies 179 and Double Ringers 162. High game over average: Pearce 29.7 and Mary Guzdial 19.9.

Berwick teen arrested on cyberstalking charges

Mon, 10/16/2023 - 12:45pm
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.)

Berwick police arrested a 17-year-old Friday over threats he allegedly made on social media.

Berwick

Chief David S. Leonard reported these arrests:

--Juvenile male, 17 was arrested at 2:27 p.m. Friday on two warrants alleging cyberstalking.
In September, the Berwick Police Department received a complaint about a juvenile making threats against a victim via social media. Photographs and videos were provided showing the threats that were made.

Warrants were prepared for his arrest. On Friday, officers located the juvenile, and he was placed under arrest without incident and transported to the Berwick Police Department, where he was booked.

Following booking, the juvenile was released to a parent pending court proceedings.

--Bobby Aucoin, 35, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:11 a.m. Friday on charges of modified exhaust, exired motor vehicle inspection and possession of a legend drug.

About 12:56 a.m. Friday, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle for modified exhaust. Officers made contact with Aucoin.

Through the course of the stop, Aucoin was found to be in possession of a legend drug, and it was learned his inspection sticker was expired. Aucoin was placed under arrest released on a summons to appear in court.

--Skyler Gibson, 29, Gibson, was arrested at 8:09 p.m. on a warrant alleging theft (over $1,000).

On Friday, officers traveled to the Lafourche Parish Jail and located Gibson, who was named in active warrants through the Berwick Police Department. Gibson was placed under arrest and transported to the Berwick Police Department.

The warrants stem from a theft complaint filed in June 2022, when it was reported that Gibson took several items from the victim valued at over $1,000. Gibson was booked on the outstanding warrants.

--Joseph Alcina, 33, Franklin, was arrested at 2:52 a.m. Saturday on charges of driving while intoxicated (first offense) and improper lane usage.
About 2:27 a.m. Saturday, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle after it was observed to make several lane violations on U.S. 90. Officers made contact with the driver, Alcina, and impairment was suspected.

Standard field sobriety tests were conducted, and Alcina performed poorly. He was placed under arrest and transported to the Berwick Police Department, where he provided a valid breath sample of 0.156G% BAC. Alcina was then booked.

--Kenneth Ashley Jr., 34, Ville Platte, was arrested at 11:24 p.m. Saturday on charges of possession of alprazolam, possession of oxycodone, possession of marijuana (under 14 grams) possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and reckless operation of a motor vehicle.

About 10:53 p.m. Saturday, the Berwick Police Department received a complaint of a reckless driver on U.S. 90. A description was given, and officers were able to locate the vehicle.

A traffic stop was conducted and officers made contact with the driver, who was identified as Ashley. While speaking with Ashley, a strong odor of marijuana was detected from the vehicle. A search of the vehicle was conducted at which time marijuana, alprazolam and oycodone were located along with a firearm.

Through the course of the investigation, it was learned that Ashley was a convicted a felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm. Ashley was placed under arrest and transported to the Berwick Police Department, where he was booked.

--Landon Acosta, 20, Morgan City was arrested at 2:09 a.m. Monday on a charge of violation of a protective order.

On Sunday, the Berwick Police Department received a call about a disturbance at a residence on Versen Street. Officers responded and learned that Acosta, who was involved, had left the residence prior to officers’ arrival.

Later, another call was received that Acosta was back at the residence. Officers responded and made contact with Acosta. During this time, it was learned that Acosta had an active protective order against him for the victim who was present there.

Acosta was placed under arrest and transported to the Berwick Police Department, where he was booked.

St. Mary

Sheriff Blaise Smith reported that over the last 72-hour reporting period, the Sheriff’s Office responded to 67 complaints and made these arrest:

--Damian Paul Mayea, 21, Franklin, was arrested at 11:24 a.m. Friday on a New Iberia Police Department warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of aggravated criminal damage to property and domestic abuse aggravated assault (child endangerment). Mayea is being held for another agency.

--Jackson Perez Juarez, 21, Amelia, was arrested at 12:51 a.m. Saturday on charges of no driver's license, reckless operation (no accident), driving while intoxicated, and resisting arrest or officer.

Juarez was released on a $5,250 bond.

--Cameron Orrin Mitchell, 23, Franklin, was arrested at 8:43 a.m. Saturday on a warrant alleging to appear on charges of aggravated obstruction of highway, reckless operation (no accident), maximumu speed limit, mufflers (modification of exhaust) and no headlights.

Mitchell was released on a $56,250 bond.

--Kyran Gerard Williams, 26, Youngsville, was arrested at 6:29 p.m. Saturday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of illegal use, possession, or control of weapons (crime of violence) and possession of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoids with intent to distribute. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Jonathan Chad Ulmer, 47, Winnsboro, was arrested at 4:29 pm. Sunday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a charge of possession of marijuana. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Shawnna Nicole Johnson, 32, Patterson, was arrested at at 3:36 p.m. Friday on a chargeof aggravated battery. reports the following arrests:

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy reported that the Franklin Police Department responded to 22 complaints over the past weekend and made this arrest:

--Francisco Panama, 21, Johnson Lane, Franklin, was arrested at 9:53 a.m. Friday on charges of no insurance, driver must be licensed, stop signs and yield signs, and switched license plate. Panama was booked, processed and released on a $569.50 bond.

Assumption

Sheriff Leland Falconreported this arrest:

--Julie D. Trosclair, 70, Riverbend Street, Belle River, was arrested on charges of felony theft, identity theft, bank fraud, computer fund and illegal transmission of monetary funds.

On or about Sept. 19, 2022, deputies responded to a call in the Belle River area in reference to a fraud complaint. Deputies made contact with the complainant, who advised that a former domestic acquaintance had used his identity illegally and without his authority to apply for a loan. The complainant further advised that the person had also forged his name to documents to procure the loan.

Detectives continued the investigation and were able to identify Trosclair as the suspect.

Detectives followed the document trail and were able to confirm that a loan in the amount of $4086.50 was obtained illegally by Trosclair, and the proceeds were used towards personal expenses of a relative.

As the conclusion of the investigation, Trosclair was arrested and remains incarcerated with bond set at $62,500.

Morgan City police radio logs for Oct. 14-16

Mon, 10/16/2023 - 11:44am

The following are the radio dispatch logs from the Morgan City Police Department. To report unlawful or suspicious activity, call the Police Department at 985-380-4605.
Saturday, Oct. 14
7:12 a.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Animal complaint.
8:24 a.m. 400 block of Duke Street; Medical.
10:33 a.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Animal complaint.
11:27 a.m. 500 block of Bush Street; Complaint.
12:23 p.m. 200 block of Franklin Street; Animal complaint.
12:51 p.m. 1100 block of Chester Bowles Street; Complaint.
12:53 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Suspicious person.
1:59 p.m. 1100 block of Eighth Street; Animal complaint.
2:04 p.m. 1200 block of Brashear Avenue; Alarm.
2:23 p.m. Federal Avenue/Greenwood Street; Vehicle accident.
3:28 p.m. 1200 block of Brashear Avenue; Alarm.
3:45 p.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Theft.
5:29 p.m. 800 block of Brashear Avenue; Vehicle accident.
5:42 p.m. 1300 block of Sixth Street; Patrol.
6:30 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Complaint.
6:41 p.m. 1800 block of Elk Street; Alarm.
7:05 p.m. Front Street; Complaint.
9:37 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Complaint.
9:48 p.m. 900 block of Garden Street; Fire.
Sunday, Oct. 15
2:15 a.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Arrest.
3:19 a.m. 500 block of Hilda Street; Complaint.
3:38 a.m. 300 block of Federal Avenue; Arrest.
3:40 a.m. Franklin/Maple streets; Suspicious subject.
7:35 a.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Medical.
7:54 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; 911 hang up.
8:18 a.m. Arenz Street; Stalled vehicle.
9:34 a.m. 1100 block of Florence Street; Animal complaint.
10:26 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; 911 hang up.
10:50 a.m. 300 block of Wren Street; Suspicious person.
10:57 a.m. 6300 block of La. 182; Complaint.
11:07 a.m. 1600 block of Ridgeway Drive; Assistance.
11:59 a.m. U.S. 90 East; Roadway blockage.
12:21 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; 911 hang up.
12:30 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182 East; Suspicious person.
1:07 p.m. 7500 block of La. 182; Remove subject.
1:50 p.m. 1000 block of Ninth Street; Suspicious person.
2:13 p.m. 1600 block of Filmore Street; Medical.
2:22 p.m. 200 block of Glenwood Street; Fight.
3:14 p.m. 1100 block of Fourth Street; Open door.
3:39 p.m. 7100 block of Park Road; Complaint.
5:25 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; 911 hang up.
6:13 p.m. 300 block of Federal Avenue; Stand by.
7:27 p.m. 600 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Suspicious subject.
7:42 p.m. 900 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Suspicious vehicle.
9:46 p.m. 1200 block of David Drive; Alarm.
11:03 p.m. 300 block of Chennault Street; Suspicious subject.
11:13 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Complaint.
11:35 p.m. 1600 block of Glenmont Street; Medical.
Monday, Oct. 16
2:02 a.m. 1000 block of Kimberly Drive; Medical.

Jeff Landry will be the next governor

Sat, 10/14/2023 - 9:12pm
The Center Square

Republican Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry will replace term-limited Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards after winning election outright in a jungle primary Saturday.
Landry won more than 50% of the vote despite running against 15 other candidates.

“Thankful beyond belief," Landry wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "I’m ready to get to work for Louisiana!”

All candidates regardless of party appear on the same ballot in a jungle primary. If no one had received at least 50% of the vote, a runoff election with the top two vote-getters would have been held in November.

Landry received the endorsement of formter President Donald Trump.

Former Democratic Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Shawn Wilson, Republican Treasurer John Schroder, former CEO of Louisiana Association of Business and Industry Stephen Waguespack, Senate Majority Leader Sharon Hewitt, Republican Rep. Richard Nelson, and independent Hunter Lundy, among others, also were on the ballot. Nelson withdrew from the race in September to endorse Landry but remained on the ballot.

Landry, also backed by the state Republican Party, led fundraising and polls throughout the race.

Edwards has been governor for two terms since2016 and is term-limited.

Oct. 15 Primary Results
3929 of 3929 precincts
5,190 Benjamin Barnes (IND) 0%
4,426 Patrick Henry "Dat" Barthel (REP) 0%
27,663 Daniel M. "Danny" Cole (DEM) 3%
1,734 Xavier Ellis (REP) 0%
1,260 "Keitron" Gagnon (NOPTY) 0%
18,469 Sharon W. Hewitt (REP) 2%
3,400 Jeffery Istre (IND) 0%
1,164 "Xan" John (REP) 0%
547,828 "Jeff" Landry (REP) 52%
52,167 Hunter Lundy (IND) 5%
3,604 Richard Nelson (REP) 0%
56,656 John Schroder (REP) 5%
1,131 Frank Scurlock (IND) 0%
62,280 Stephen "Wags" Waguespack (REP) 6%
275,527 Shawn D. Wilson (DEM) 26%
Total: 1,062,499
Lieutenant Governor
64,059 Elbert Guillory (REP) 6%
50,711 "Tami" Hotard (REP) 5%
211,991 Willie Jones (DEM) 20%
678,521 William "Billy" Nungesser (REP) 66%
17,198 Bruce Payton (IND) 2%
13,112 Gary Rispone (NOPTY) 1%
Total: 1,035,592
Secretary of State
*196,537 "Gwen" Collins-Greenup (DEM) 19%
*182,841 "Mike" Francis (REP) 18%
13,273 Amanda "Smith" Jennings (OTHER) 1%
102,632 Thomas J. Kennedy III (REP) 10%
197,521 Nancy Landry (REP) 19%
113,700 Arthur A. Morrell (DEM) 11%
149,981 Clay Schexnayder (REP) 15%
64,687 Brandon Trosclair (REP) 6%
Total: 1,021,172
Attorney General
*239,653 Lindsey Cheek (DEM) 23%
74,170 "Marty" Maley (REP) 7%
*463,108 "Liz" Baker Murrill (REP) 45%
172,304 John Stefanski (REP) 17%
74,479 Perry Walker Terrebonne (DEM) 7%
Total: 1,023,714
Unofficial Turnout: 34.5%
Treasurer
*442,665 John Fleming (REP) 44%
321,426 Dustin Granger (DEM) 32%
241,130 Scott McKnight (REP) 24%
Total: 1,005,221
Unofficial Turnout: 33.8%
Amendment No. 1
(Prohibits the use of private funds in the administration of elections)
734,325 YES 73%
277,560 NO 27%
Total: 1,011,885
Unofficial Turnout: 34.1%
Amendment No. 2
(Provides that the freedom of worship is a fundamental right worthy of the highest protection.)
805,669 YES 79%
211,625 NO 21%
Total: 1,017,294
Amendment No. 3
(Dedicates certain payments to be applied to the state retirement system unfunded accrued liability.
559,537 YES 56%
436,718 NO 44%
Total: 996,255
Amendment No. 4
(Restricts ad valorem tax exemptions for certain nonprofit organizations.)
661,328 YES 66%
340,633 NO 34%
Total: 1,001,961

Jones, Driskell win easily; Allain, LaGrange headed for state Senate runoff

Sat, 10/14/2023 - 8:17pm

Former state Rep. Sam Jones will be the new St. Mary Parish president and Gary Driskell will be the next sheriff after easy election wins Saturday.

Other races remain unsettled heading into Nov. 18 runoffs, including the race to succeed influential state Sen. Bret Allain

Other expected runoffs did not materialize, including the race for Parish Council At-Large District 10, where incumbent Gwenolyn Hidalgo beat two high-profile opponents.

One Parish Council incumbent was defeated Saturday: James Bennett of Morgan City, who lost to James "Jimmy" Davis Jr.

State Senate 21

The runoff will pit two candidates with broad name recognition in St. Mary: Robert Allain of Franklin, who won 44% of Saturday's vote in complete but unofficial returns, and Henry

"Bo" LaGrange of Patterson, who garnered 31%. Both men are Republicans. Businessman Stephen Swiber got 25%.

Allain is a sugar cane farmer and businessman in his own right as well as being the son of Bret Allain. LaGrange was the parish's chief administrative officer for 27 years before retiring earlier this year.

"The next step is to get out and hit the reset button and get after it," LaGrange said Saturday night.

LaGrange ran on his background in parish government and his ability to bring people together to look for solutions.

"That's one of the strengths I've been running on," LaGrange said. "I've been telling people I have the work experience and the life experience."

Allain ran on a platform of four reforms: taxes, education, insurance and torts. He often talked about the fact that his sister left St. Mary for a career and said he hopes to make the parish a place where more people stay to live and work.

Allain, 33, said he heard on the campaign trail from people who believe it's time for a new generation to move into leadership.

"Young blood, fresh ideas, the next generation -- that's what I heard a lot," Allain said.

House 50

Vincent St. Blanc III, R-Franklin, won easy election to a second term. He drew 72% of the vote across the district to 28% for Gloria Robertson, D-Franklin.

In District 51, which reaches into the Morgan City area, incumbent Beryl Amedee, R-Gray, qualified without opposition.

Parish president

Jones, longtime Franklin mayor and state representative, won 58% of the vote to 42% for political newcomer Timothy LeBlanc.

Jones had criticized the parish government for its level of bonded debt, and said he's been told the parish was having trouble meeting its payroll. Incumbent President David Hanagriff defended the borrowing for infrastructure projects and denied the allegation about payroll.

Jones insisted Saturday that his information came from inside the administration.

Jones said during the campaign that he wants to serve a single four-year term and will devote himself to the office.

"We need to have a full-time parish president," Jones said Saturday. "We need to get into the debt and see how much we have."

Sheriff

Driskell, currently the chief deputy for retiring Sheriff Blaze Smith, ran first in a four-candidate field, winning 77% of the vote. Kenny P. Scelfo Sr. got 17%, Jason Granger 4% and Cody J. Thibodaux got 3%.

Driskell lives in Morgan City, which will make him a rare St. Mary sheriff from the east end of the parish.

Parish Council:

--In At-Large District 10, current council Chair Hidalgo of Bayou Vista got 51% of Saturday's vote against two well-known opponents to avoid a runoff. Angelena Brocato of Patterson, a member of the Hospital Service District No. 2 board, got 28%, and Patterson Chief Financial Officer Reginald Weary got 22 %.

--In District 1,  incumbent the Rev. Craig Mathews held off a challenge from Baldwin Alderman Herbert Bell, 58-42%

--In District 3, former Parish Councilman Peter Soprano won a spot in the Nov. 18 runoff  against incumbent Rodney Olander. Olander drew 47% of the vote to 38% for Soprano. Whitney Bourque got 15%. All three candidates are from Franklin.

--In District 4, businessman David W. Hill of Bayou Vista won the seat being vacated by incumbent Scott Ramsey. Hill got 62% of Saturday's vote to 21% for Myron Bourque of Berwick and 18% for Javon Charles of Bayou Vista.

--In District 5, incumbent Leslie "Les" Rulf will meet Douglas Streety Jr. in a runoff. Rulf got 40% of the vote; Streety got 32%; and Charles "Butchie" McKinley got 28%. All three men are from Patterson.

--In District 6, incumbent Patrick J. Hebert won easily with 60% of the vote to 40% for challenger Shawn Canty. Both men are from Berwick.

--In District 7, Davis got 55% of Saturday's vote to defeat incumbent Bennett, who got 45%. Both men are from Morgan City.

--In District 8, incumbent Mark Duhon will meet Carlo Gagliano Jr. in a runoff. Duhon got 47% of Saturday's vote, while Gagliano got 31%. Eriq Blanchard finished out of the running with 22%.

Duhon and Gagliano were on opposite sides of a recent debate on a rate increase proposed by the water board that Gagliano chairs.  

Both men are from Amelia. Blanchard is from Morgan City.

Three council incumbents qualified for re-election without opposition: J Ina of Franklin in District 2, Dr.Kristi Prejeant of Centerville in At-Large District 9 and Dean Adams of Morgan City in At-Large District 11.

Three men also qualified for parishwide offices without opposition: incumbents Dr. Eric Melancon of Patterson, coroner, and Jarrod K. Longman of Morgan City, assessor; and Greg Aucoin of Morgan City, who will succeed retiring Clerk of Court Cliff Dresel.

Propositions

Voters in Hospital Service District No. 1, which operates the Bayou Bend Health System in Franklin, approved a 3.1-mill property tax renewal, 66-34%.

In Morgan City, voters approved a proposed charter amendment that will officially require election of City Council members from geographic districts.

The charter was originally written to establish at-large election of council members, but the city began electing members from  districts in 2000 under a federal consent decree. The charter had never been updated to reflect that fact.

The amendment passed 75-25%.

Returns
State Senator -- 21st Senatorial District
Precincts districtwide
Early & Absentee Reporting - 6 of 6 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 103 of 103 precincts
Votes
10,815 Robert Allain (REP) 44%
7,745 Henry "Bo" LaGrange (REP) 31%
6,138 Stephen Swiber (REP) 25%
Total: 24,698
Unofficial Turnout: 33.9%

State Representative -- 50th Representative District
Precincts districtwide
Early & Absentee Reporting - 2 of 2 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 42 of 42 precincts
Votes
2,808 Gloria R. Robertson (DEM) 28%
7,206 Vincent St. Blanc III (REP) 72%
Total: 10,014
Unofficial Turnout: 35.1%

Parish President
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 46 of 46 precincts
Votes
6,418 Sam Jones (DEM) 58%
4,605 Timothy "Tim" LeBlanc (DEM) 42%
Total: 11,023
Unofficial Turnout: 34.9%

Council Member -- District 1
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 9 of 9 precincts
Votes
683 Herbert "H.B." Bell (DEM) 44%
856 Craig A. Mathews (DEM) 56%
Total: 1,539
Unofficial Turnout: 33.5%

Council Member -- District 3
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 8 of 8 precincts
Votes
251 Whitney Bourque (DEM) 15%
794 Rodney Olander (REP) 47%
651 Peter Soprano (IND) 38%
Total: 1,696
Unofficial Turnout: 43.4%

Council Member -- District 4
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 6 of 6 precincts
Votes
237 Myron Bourque (NOPTY) 21%
207 Javon Charles (NOPTY) 18%
711 David W. Hill (REP) 62%
Total: 1,155
Unofficial Turnout: 31.9%

Council Member -- District 5
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 5 of 5 precincts
Votes
397 Charles "Butchie" McKinley (DEM) 29%
548 Leslie "Les" Rulf (REP) 40%
441 Douglas Streety, Jr. (REP) 32%
Total: 1,386
Unofficial Turnout: 34.3%

Council Member -- District 6
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 6 of 6 precincts
Votes
587 Shawn Canty (REP) 40%
876 Patrick J. Hebert (REP) 60%
Total: 1,463
Unofficial Turnout: 36.5%

Council Member -- District 7
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 5 of 5 precincts
Votes
676 James "Hammer" Bennett, Jr. (NOPTY) 46%
797 James "Jimmy" Davis, Jr. (REP) 54%
Total: 1,473
Unofficial Turnout: 37.8%

Council Member -- District 8
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 6 of 6 precincts Votes
243 Eriq Blanchard (NOPTY) 21%
547 Mark A. Duhon (NOPTY) 48%
345 Carlo Gagliano, Jr. (NOPTY) 30%
Total: 1,135
Unofficial Turnout: 34.9%

Council Member at Large -- District 10
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 46 of 46 precincts Votes
3,116 Angelena Brocato (DEM) 27%
5,774 Gwendolyn "Gwen" Hidalgo (REP) 51%
2,461 Reginald D. Weary (DEM) 22%
Total: 11,351
Unofficial Turnout: 35.9%

City of Morgan City -- Amend HRC Section 2-01(a) - CC
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 9 of 9 precincts Votes
1,927 YES 75%
636 NO 25%
Total: 2,563
Unofficial Turnout: 36.0%

Hospital Service District No. 1 -- 3.10 Mills Renewal - BOC - 10 Yrs.
Early & Absentee Reporting - 1 of 1 parishes
Election Day Reporting - 22 of 22 precincts Votes
2,937 YES 66%
1,537 NO 34%
Total: 4,474
Unofficial Turnout: 35.0%

Friday night prep football scores

Sat, 10/14/2023 - 7:53pm

South Lafourche 35, Morgan City 14

Central Catholic 21, Berwick 6

St. James 48, Patterson 0

Loreauville 31, Franklin 28

Ascension Episcopal 60, West St. Mary 6

Hanson Memorial 21, Centerville 8

Central Catholic's Landon Lipari, in white, drags down Berwick running back Cole Morris in Friday's prep football game.

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