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View the eclipse Oct. 14

Local people will have a chance to view the Oct. 14 partial eclipse of the sun and science demonstrations at Thibodaux First Assembly Church on La. 3185.

This will be an annular eclipse, known as the Ring of Fire.

The first apparent contact of the moon with the sun will be at 10:34 a.m. The maximum partial eclipse will be at 12:01 p.m., when the moon occludes 72% of the sun’s disk.

First Assembly will open the doors to its lobby so that restrooms will be available.

Also at the site will be activities for children, including a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Day. Hands-on demonstrations will include a vacuum chamber, a Fresnel lens, mirrors, liquid nitrogen, atmospheric pressure, surface tension, meteorites, a spud gun, a trebuchet and microscopes.

There will also be a Lakota Sioux tipi, 18 feet in diameter at its base.

The event will be weather permitting. Overcast and rain will stop the event. But there is no charge, and you and your family are invited.

Wheel House for Oct. 6

NEW SALEM
Baptist Church, 1412 Cherry St., Patterson, hosting a Spiritual Cake Program, 9:30 a.m. Oct. 22. Speakers: the Rev. Francis Span and Garrett Grogan. Public invited.

BARBECUE
Dinners sold by Men of New Zorah Baptist Church, 604 Julia St., Morgan City, on Nov. 4. Menu: barbecued chicken, baked beans, rice dressing, potato salad and drink. Cost: $12. Call Barry Walker, 985-222-9328 or Timothy Matthews, 985-519-1007.

BIRDING
Learn facts about birding, how to attract birds to your yard and much more as the Friends of Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge and St. Mary Parish Library join to present a free adult program on Backyard Birding at 6 p.m. Nov. 6 at the Franklin Library, 206 Iberia St. Program includes hints on bird watching in your neighborhood from speakers Carol and Paul Schaub. For info call Franklin Library, 337-828-5364, visit www.bayoutecherefugefriends.org or email btrfriends@yahoo.com.

Legislative task force examines La.'s mental health crisis

Lawmakers working to address the state’s mental health crisis heard from various medical professionals on issues feeding the problem.
Members of the House Committee on Health and Welfare’s Subcommittee on Mental Health continued efforts to understand the factors driving the mental health crisis that has accelerated with the pandemic and possible action lawmakers can take to counter the trend.
The meeting featured testimony from representatives from nearly a dozen professional organizations, from the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners to the Louisiana Psychological Association.
Roy Salgado, chair of the Licensed Professional Counselor Board of Examiners, and others highlighted medical insurance issues that prohibit residents from receiving mental health care services.
It’s a similar issue with provisionally licensed mental health counselors and marriage or family therapists, which number about 1,900 statewide.
“The issue is they currently do not get reimbursed through third-party payers, so it makes it a little difficult for employers, agencies, hospitals, clinics to hire them because there is no reimbursement,” Salgado said.
“The work provided by provisionally licensed mental health professionals (overseen by doctors) is generally not reimbursable by Medicaid,” he said. “If you were to change this with a stroke of a pen we would immediately increase access to care for residents who rely on Medicaid by approximately 1,900 providers.”
Karen Lyon, executive director for the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, explained that the six graduate programs in the state that offer psychiatric mental health training for advanced practice registered nurses are struggling to fill instructor positions due to many leaving the field following the pandemic.
Currently, only about 6% of the roughly 7,000 practicing advanced practice registered nurses, or about 425, are certified in psychiatric mental health nursing, she said.
Many of the most experienced over 65 are “now … beginning to retire and resign and they’re not renewing their licenses,” Lyon said. “The good news is we have increased enrollments in nursing schools, but of course we have the challenge of not having enough nursing faculty.”
Other issues highlighted revolved around funding for parish coroners, who serve as the safety net for those suffering a mental health crisis. Gerry Cvitanovich, the Jefferson Parish coroner and president of the Louisiana State Coroner’s Association, told the committee that requests for protective custody orders that trigger a mental evaluation have increased from 416 in Jefferson Parish five years ago to 663 last year.
“Those numbers are concerning,” he said. “A lot of this does fall on the coroners for evaluation.”
Chuck Credo, attorney for the coroner’s association, noted the situation puts added financial stress on parishes because “there’s absolutely no state funding for any coroner’s office on any level.”
The result is the loss of 11 non-term-limited coroners in the last election cycle who “simply gave up,” he said.
Still other funding issues revolved around “cost prohibitive” reimbursement rates through Medicaid and Medicare for proper psychological testing if the services are approved. Oftentimes, especially for children, they’re not, said Jesse Lambert, president of the Louisiana Psychological Association.
“We have seen a rather large exodus of not only psychologists but clinicians in general leave Medicaid because the reimbursement rates are cost prohibitive,” he said.
Psychology interns and externs, those preparing for licensure through required training, also cannot bill for services, which imposes constraints on training programs that have resulted in closures, Lambert said.

La.'s last Pearl Harbor survivor dies at age 100

CHURCH POINT — World War II and U.S. Navy Veteran William Joseph “Joe” Richard, Louisiana’s last known Pearl Harbor survivor, was laid to rest Saturday, Sept. 30, at Calvary Cemetery in Lafayette.

He was 100.

“A patriot, hero, friend to all, Mr. Joe Richard passed away yesterday (September 27). He will be missed by all. Louisiana’s Last Pearl Harbor Survivor has gone home. According to Mr. Joe, he did such a good job they let him go to the Korean War also. ... He will be missed by many,” stated a social media post from the American Legion Post 225 / Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9903 in Church Point. Richard was a member of both posts.

Services for Richard were held at Guidry Funeral Home in Church Point on Friday, Sept. 29 and Saturday, Sept. 30.

Richard’s procession from Church Point to the cemetery included escorts from members of the American Legion Riders - Louisiana Chapters, the Church Point Police Department and the Lafayette Sheriff’s Department.

During the graveside services, an accordion player performed musical selections including taps and “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and the Rev. Mitchell Guidry recited a prayer in Cajun French. U.S. Navy service members from the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans in Belle Chasse also attended the graveside services. A gun salute was performed by members of the Church Point and St. Landry Parish Honor Guards.

Richard’s status as Louisiana’s last known survivor of the attack on the Pearl Harbor Naval Base is verified by the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs. Richard is also a veteran of the Korean War.

Just over two months ago, well-wishers packed American Legion Post 225 in Church Point to help Richard celebrate his 100th birthday on July 23. During the event, Richard received several honors, including a town of Church Point proclamation declaring July 23 Joe Richard Day and the keys to the town.

In 2021, a trip was arranged by several area veterans to bring Richard to the National Museum of the Pacific War, originally named the Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz Memorial Naval Museum, in Fredericksburg, Texas. The town is also the birthplace of Nimitz. While serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Nimitz was who Richard called his “big boss.”

During the visit, staff from the museum recorded Richard’s personal account of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the war as well as his early life and his life after his service to his country.

“I could hear knocking on the (USS) Arizona, but we didn’t knock back,” Richard said. “We didn’t want to give them hope because we knew we couldn’t do anything.”

Richard told Museum Volunteer Ed Metzler, who interviewed Richard for the recording, that he and his comrades quickly went to work rescuing people from the USS Arizona. Richard said 33 men were rescued before they were forced to pull back due to the hazardous situation. One of those aboard the USS Arizona who did not survive was Richard’s friend Russell Durio, of Sunset, who served in the U.S Marine Corps.

“He got killed,” Richard said. “He’s still there, buried on the Arizona.”

Metzler started the interview off asking Richard his age and if his family still hosted birthday parities for him.

“Yes,” Connie Figueron, Richard’s daughter, said, smiling. “We still do.”

“I’ll be 98 in July,” Richard said. “Start buying the candles and building the cake.”

“Thank you for coming all the way over here to meet with us,” Metzler said. “It’s a treat.”

Richard was delivered by a midwife at his parent’s home on the outskirts of Church Point on July 23, 1923. He was the fifth of 12 children, and at that time, one of three surviving siblings, all in their 90s. Richard’s father farmed cotton and corn.

“I didn’t want to pick cotton, and when I finished welding school, they didn’t have but two welding places in town,” Richard said. “They’d only hire me when they had some hard work. They figured I could do a better job. I wasn’t making enough money, so I went and told my momma, ‘That ain’t working. I’m going join the Navy.’ She said, Well, if that’s what you want, I’ll sign for you.’”

Richard joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 17, and he turned 18 the summer before the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Metzler asked Richard why he specifically joined the Navy.

“I couldn’t swim,” Richard said, laughing, “So, I figured they would carry me around.”

Richard traveled by train to San Diego, California for basic training, and once he completed his training ,he was assigned to the USS Rigel. Richard put his welding skills to use aboard the boat as a ship fitter first class.

“She (the USS Rigel) was converted to a destroyer tender,” Richard said. “We had more stuff on it (the ship) than we did in town. We (even) had an eye doctor.

Richard also said the food aboard the ship was good.

Metzler then asked Richard where he was on the morning of Dec. 7, 1941, the day of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

“I was getting ready to go ashore, eating grapes and getting dressed,” Richard recalled. “In about another 10 minutes, I would have been ashore. I heard all kinds of noise, so I went to the porthole, and when I looked out, the Arizona was facing me and I thought it blew up (from the inside). I went on topside, and I something going on that wasn’t saw right. Then a plane passed over us, and I could see a little man waving at me. Once they saw that the fleet was under attack, we had to start disconnecting hoses. See, we (the USS Rigel) was under the power of the dock.”

Richard said that during the at- tack, his ship was hit with a shrapnel bomb, and a whaleboat in front of the ship was hit with a bomb that didn’t go off.
In addition to helping rescue survivors from the USS Arizona, Richard also helped to rescue three men from the USS Oklahoma, which had rolled onto its side due to damage from the attack.

“You’re 17, you’ve been just been in the Navy for a few months, you’ve been under attack, saved lives how are you feeling at that point as a 17 year old?” Metzler asked Richard.

“It’s hard to say,” Richard said, with a change in his tone. “It was hard, but we survived. I still see (remember) it every day like it was yesterday, you know? I was hoping it would go away, but it didn’t. I don’t think we could have done any more than what we did, and we did what we could.”

Once the USS Rigel was fitted, the ship set sail with the Seventh Fleet, and Richard said the crew traveled to many islands in the Pacific Ocean.

By 1945, Richard was assigned to the USS Kittson, and the ship was an attack transport prepared for the Okinawa invasion. Richard declined to speak about his time aboard the USS Kittson while at Okinawa. According to the museum, the Battle of Okinawa, which began on April 1, 1945, was the bloodiest battle of the Pacific War.

Richard said, to him, the saddest part of the war was the Bataan Death March.

“The survivors, they survived all that, but they had to fight their buddies to survive because if they served a meal, they put that hot meal in their hands, and if they could find a little piece of scrap iron or something they could put it in, they had to fight to keep it,” Richard said.

He continued, “That was sad, what them poor fellas went through, if they (even) made it.”

After serving aboard the USS Kittson, Richard received his discharge and returned by ship to San Diego and finally to Louisiana by train.

“It felt good (to be back on American soil),” Richard said. “I knew I’d soon be home.”

Once Richard returned to Louisiana, he took a job in Baton Rouge before opening a gas station on Airline Highway. Eventually Richard’s property was needed to expand the roadway, and he returned home to the Church Point area and opened a welding shop.

“If it weren’t for my eyesight, I’d still be in there working (welding),” Richard said. “I’ve had good years and bad years, but most of them were good. The Lord was good to me.”

Metzler thanked Richard for his service.

“I know people do that, but we’d love do it again,” Metzler said.

“I’m glad I could do it for my country,” Richard said.

Jeremy Alford: Hot news adds spice to legislative races

Have you heard about the Acadiana state Senate race where one of the candidates has been accused of setting fire to a family of dogs in a sugar cane field? 

What about the New Orleans House race that has pulled Gov. John Bel Edwards out of early retirement and into a Democratic free-for-all?

Then there’s another Senate race, over in Jefferson Parish, hosting a candidate who’s a sitting mayor — and the target of an unfolding media investigation into local land deals.

All over Louisiana there are intriguing political story lines emerging from races for the state House and Senate. And unless you live in these areas, it’s unlikely you’re up to speed with some of the best (and the worst) political drama from the current election cycle. 

In the Senate, 20 of the chamber’s districts have already been filled due to uncontested elections. Another 19 districts, however, have contested races this fall.

In the House of Representatives, the Legislature’s lower chamber, 48 districts already have elected officials ready to be sworn into office. Another 57 have active contests.

Republicans are expected to secure supermajorities in both the Senate and the House. As such, many of these contested races pit Republicans versus other Republicans in battles to prove who’s more conservative. 

Such an electoral skirmish is playing out in Senate District 22, in Iberia, Lafayette, St. Landry and St. Martin parishes. That’s where House Majority Leader Blake Miguez and local farmer Hugh Andre are dividing Acadiana’s political class. 

Adding to the nasty tone of this race last week was a direct mail piece from the Louisiana Committee for a Conservative Majority, which is backing Miguez. The mailer accused Andre of setting “fire to a dog and her eight puppies in his cane field.”

The source for the mailer was a story published by The Hayride, a conservative news outlet. 

Andre, who campaigns with his own dog, Murphy Mae, has explained to voters the field was burned out of necessity, for his farming business, and he did his best for a week and a half to relocate the dogs that were ultimately burned. 

Further proving this race has really going to the dogs, U.S. Sen. John Kennedy said in an endorsement video that Miguez is the right candidate and would protect voters from bad government or, as Kennedy put it, a “Great Dane size whiz down the leg.”

In southeastern Louisiana, the battle for Seat District 8, pitting incumbent Sen. Pat Connick against Jean Lafitte Mayor Timothy Kerner Jr. (the son of the state representative by the same name), is ripping through Jefferson Parish like a Category 3 storm surge.

The latest personality influencing this contest is Fox 8’s Lee Zurik, who dropped a bombshell last week suggesting the “business ties of (the) Lafitte mayor raise ethical questions.” 

The Kerners were silent partners in a building acquisition — a building located across the street from Jean Lafitte’s town hall, according to Zurik’s reporting. The contractors involved in the deal also received government work from the town, and the property in question was sold at a $101,000 markup.

The mayor agreed to be interviewed, then couldn’t be located for the interview, so a spokesperson scheduled another interview with Fox 8, but the mayor changed his mind again.
In nearby St. Tammany Parish, the open race for House District 89 has surprisingly pulled in a political superstar. After all, it’s not everyday the U.S. House majority leader plays in a race for state representative.

But that’s the case over on the Northshore, where Congressman Steve Scalise has cut an endorsement video for Kim Carver, who has cemented his place as the leading candidate. 

Not to be outdone, Gov. John Bel Edwards is coming off the bench to influence another race, over in New Orleans’ House District 91.

The engagement from the governor was unexpected, especially since he has more or less shut down his own political operations as his time in office draws to a close.

Edwards endorsed the challenger in this race, Madison O’Malley. Telling The Advocate what she thought of the governor’s decision, New Orleans Rep. Mandie Landry remarked,

“What an embarrassment to our state.” Landry is pushing to make abortion and “anti-choice” an issue during the final stretch.

Further north, in Monroe’s Senate District 33, Senate Agriculture Chair Stewart Cathey is under fire by a well-funded independent expenditure group named Watchdog PAC. The group has put its “Crooked Cathey” theme on television, billboards and mail. 

“It’s despicable, but what else can you expect?” Cathey told The News-Star’s Greg Hilburn. 

Challenger Ned White has been able to steer clear of hard attacks thanks to Watchdog PAC, which is in the process dropping new mail in the district this week.

If you want to learn more about the Legislature’s various districts around the state, visit www.Legis.La.Gov. If you want to learn more about the corresponding elections on the fall ballot, check out www.SOS.La.Gov.

For more Louisiana political news, visit www. LaPolitics.com or follow Alford on Twitter @ LaPoliticsNow.

Get It Growing calendar prepares gardeners

BATON ROUGE — This 2024 LSU AgCenter Get It Growing calendar will again supply garden enthusiasts with lots of horticulture information, gardening tips and beautiful pictures.
Since 2005, the calendar has been packed with dozens of beautiful photos of Louisiana gardens and landscapes that will add beauty to your favorite wall.
The recently released LSU AgCenter Get It Growing Lawn and Garden Calendar features images of a variety of flowers, trees and other flora captured by photographers from across the state.
“The LSU AgCenter 2024 Get It Growing Calendar has arrived. Like previous calendars, it is filled with useful information for serious and beginning gardeners,” said Elma Sue McCallum of LSU AgCenter Communications, who serves as the calendar’s coordinator. “Louisiana gardeners have come to rely on the monthly gardening tips and educational features in the calendar. It highlights beautiful photographs of flowers, gardens and other plants by Louisiana photographers.”
You’ll get monthly tips that will inform the longtime gardener as well as the beginner. It also includes a special section on sustainable landscapes with advice from Heather Kirk-Ballard, the LSU AgCenter statewide consumer horticulturist and the representative of the AgCenter Get It Growing campaign.
Each calendar contains a list of Louisiana Super Plants, which highlights tough and beautiful plants that perform well in Louisiana landscapes. It also includes helpful information for projects, including when to plant caladium tubers and mulch trees.
In addition to monthly gardening tips, the full-color, 32-page, 9-by-12 calendar includes a guide to landscape conservation.
The calendar’s value increases immensely with the inclusion of a list of AgCenter lawn and garden publications, gardening terms and definitions and information on the LSU AgCenter Master Gardener Program, the AgCenter Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic and the AgCenter Soil Testing and Plant Analysis Lab.
Photographs for the calendar are chosen each year through a public call for entries.
The 2024 calendar winners include Nanette Baldwin of Gonzales, Michael Bennett of Shreveport, Caleb Boulet of Scott, Abbie Bourgeois of Schriever, Anne Donnarumma of Baton Rouge, Jared Doyle of Natchitoches, James Greer of Tioga, Terryl Hicks of Franklinton, Claudia Husseneder of St. Gabriel, Kami Hymel of Paulina, Amy Kinzie of New Orleans, Raakhee Malani of Prairieville, Suzanne McFatter of Lake Charles, Jamie Newman of Baton Rouge, Yvette Peevy of New Orleans, Anna Taylor Poe of Natchitoches, Conchita Richey of Gonzales, Rhoda Stevenson of Campti, Michael Sutton of Mandeville, Claire Sylvest of Sulphur, Lisa Tortorich of Nine Mile Point, J.C. Webb of Crowley and Emily Wolf of Lafayette.
The Get It Growing calendar sells for $13.95 and is available for online orders at www.LSUAgCenter.com/OnlineStore. Sample photos and more information are available on the website.
The calendar is created as part of the AgCenter’s Get It Growing educational campaign for home lawns and gardens. You can also find it at garden centers across Louisiana.

Where relative goes, the bugs soon follow

DEAR ABBY: One of my family members is a loner. I’m the closest relative to them. They invite my children and me over for holiday dinners, but the house is dirty with roaches galore. The bugs even crawl on you during the day on the couch. I don’t want to go there for this reason.
I’m also cautious about inviting them to visit here because I once asked them to housesit for me for four days, and I came home to roaches in my house. How do I break it to them gently that the sanitary conditions are troubling, and I don’t want to be in their home nor have them in mine?
BUGGED IN THE MID-ATLANTIC

DEAR BUGGED: You need to inform this relative that they have a serious insect problem. Roaches carry bacteria, funguses and molds, and also spread disease. Fortunately, with the help of a professional exterminator, an infestation can be handled — but not unless the problem is recognized and addressed.
If your relative is unaware that they caused an infestation in your home when they were housesitting, they should be told. And while you’re at it, recommend the name of the company you used to remedy the problem. You don’t have to say you don’t want to visit them or have them over, all you need to do is refuse their invitations and refrain from extending one.

DEAR ABBY: I just turned 22 and I have no idea what I’m doing! I want to go back to school, but school was so hard for me growing up, and I really don’t want to go through it all again. The only reason I didn’t quit was because of my mom, but, like I said, I’m 22 now, and I can’t depend on her forever. I feel like I should have accomplished a lot more by the time I got to this age, but I haven’t. What should I do to get my life on the track I want?
NO CLUE IN THE WEST

DEAR NO CLUE: You are no longer the unwilling student you were when you were younger. Now you are an adult, and you may find you are more motivated to acquire the knowledge you need to succeed and are better able to concentrate.
A way to find what you may be best suited for would be to contact the career counseling department of your local college or university and inquire about taking aptitude tests. It isn’t free, but it’s worthwhile because it may point you in a direction you hadn’t considered before. There is also the option of a vocational school, because, as you already know, people develop at their own pace.

DEAR ABBY: My bride of two months, whom I love dearly, is very negative every time we try to make a plan. Whether it be traveling or house projects, she puts roadblocks in the way. Nothing gets accomplished, so I let her take the lead, and then nothing happens. She reads her book and does nothing. If I start a project after waiting to see if she’s going to do SOMEthing, she wants to throw a monkey wrench in my project.
What do I do?
STUCK IN PLACE IN FLORIDA

DEAR STUCK: If you don’t want this to be your future, what you “do” is confront your bride before this destroys your marriage. The behavior you describe seems like passive-aggressiveness on her part — and it isn’t healthy. Marriage and family therapy to help improve your level of communication would be money well spent.
***
For an excellent guide to becoming a better conversationalist and a more sociable person, order “How to Be Popular.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby, Popularity Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.

Public notices for Oct. 6, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE
Board of
Adjustments Meeting
Regular Meeting
August 7, 2023
6:00 p.m.
St. Mary Parish Courthouse Fifth Floor
Franklin,
Louisiana
The Board of Adjustments met in Regular Session on this date with John “Booker” Davis, Chairman presiding, and the following members present: Larry Hotard, Wynord Thomas, Sr., Keith Lewis, and Roy Martin. Absent was Scott Berry, and Tanya Anderson.
Mrs. Thomas pronounced the Invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Martin.
Mr. Thomas moved that the reading of the minutes of the Regular Meeting, June 5, 2023, be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Hotard seconded the motion which was carried.
Mrs. Tammy Luke, Director of Planning and Zoning, made a motion to expand the agenda to move the January 2024 Board of Adjustments meeting to Tuesday, January 9, 2024.
Mr. Martin made a motion to expand the agenda. Mr. Hotard seconded the motion which carried with the following 4-0-0-2 Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Larry Hotard, Wynord Thomas, Sr., Keith Lewis, and Roy Martin
Nays: None
Abstained: None
Absent: Scott Berry, and Tanya Anderson
Mr. Martin made a motion to move the January 2024 Board of Adjustments meeting from January 8, 2024 to January 9, 2024. Mr. Ho- tard seconded the motion which carried with the following 4-0-0-2 Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Larry Hotard, Wynord Thomas, Sr., Keith Lewis and Roy Martin
Nays: None
Abstained: None
Absent: Scott Berry, and Tanya Anderson
Mr. Davis read the request for Travis Ware for a Side Yard Setback Variance to deviate from the required 25 ft. to 15 ft. in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 539 Big Four Corners Rd, Jeanerette, LA; Sec. 5 T14S R8E; Parcel #1844941061.00-Lot 2 Milton Latoussaint Est part per Plat 9R97426 Acq. 11E 107676.
Mr. Travis Ware appeared before the board to discuss the re- quest for a Side Yard Setback Variance to deviate from the re- quired 25 ft. to 15 ft. in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 539 Big Four Corners Rd, Jeanerette, LA; Sec. 5 T14S R8E; Parcel #1844941061.00-Lot 2 Milton Latoussaint Est part per Plat 9R97426 Acq. 11E 107676.
Mr. Ware ex- plained that the current placement of the manufactured home does not meet the setback requirements.
Mr. Thomas made a motion to approve the re- quest for Travis Ware for a Side Yard Setback Variance to deviate from the required 25 ft. to 15 ft. in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 539 Big Four Corners Rd, Jeanerette, LA; Sec. 5 T14S R8E; Parcel #1844941061.00-Lot 2 Milton Latoussaint Est part per Plat 9R97426 Acq. 11E 107676. Mr. Ho- tard seconded the motion which carried with the following 4-0-0-2 Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Larry Ho- tard, Wynord Thomas, Sr., Keith Lewis and Roy Martin
Nays: None
Abstained: None
Absent: Scott Berry, and Tanya Anderson
There being no further business, Mr. Hotard moved for adjournment. Mr. Martin seconded the motion, which carried.
———————
John “Booker” Davis,
Chairman
St. Mary Parish Government Board of Adjustments
Adv. Oct. 6, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Board of
Adjustments
Public Hearing Minutes
August 7, 2023
5:45 p.m.
St. Mary Parish Courthouse Fifth Floor
Franklin,
Louisiana
The Board of Adjustments met in Regular Session on this date with, Chairman presiding, and the following members present: Larry Hotard, Wynord Thomas, Sr., and Roy Martin. Ab- sent was Scott Berry, Tanya An- derson, and Keith Lewis.
The purpose of the hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to the following proposed variance of property:
Travis Ware for a Side Yard Setback Variance to deviate from the required 25 ft. to 15 ft. in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 539 Big Four Corners Rd, Jeanerette, LA; Sec. 5 T14S R8E; Parcel #1844941061.00-Lot 2 Milton Latoussaint Est part per Plat 9R97426 Acq. 11E 107676.
Mr. Ware ap- peared before the board to discuss the request for a Side Yard Setback Variance to deviate from the re- quired 25 ft. to 15 ft. in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 539 Big Four Corners Rd, Jeanerette, LA; Sec. 5 T14S R8E; Parcel #1844941061.00-Lot 2 Milton Latoussaint Est part per Plat 9R97426 Acq. 11E 107676.
Mr. Ware ex- plained that he placed his manufactured home on his mother’s property which is zoned Agricultural.
Mr. Ware stated that without the variance he would not meet the required setbacks.
There being no further business, John “Booker” Davis adjourned the Public Hearing.
———————
John “Booker” Davis,
Chairman
St. Mary Parish Board of Adjustments
Adv. Oct. 6, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
Patterson State Bank
Vs. No. 137672 Div “G”
Robert J.
Businelle
Companies, Inc.
TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Order of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 16th Judicial District Court, in and for the Parish of St. Mary, and to me directed, in the above numbered and entitled suit, I have seized the following mentioned and described property, to wit:
Those certain tracts or parcels of land, together with all buildings and improvements thereon situated and all rights, ways, privileges and servitudes, lying and being situated in Morgan City, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana and being known, designated and described as the WEST HALVES OF LOTS 6 AND 7 IN SQUARE LETTER “N” IN DITCH’S ANNEX, to the City of Morgan City, Louisiana, said tract has a frontage of 62 2 feet on the School Square by a depth of 100 feet.
For title see St. Mary Parish COB 251, File No. 312862.
to satisfy the sum of THIRTY ONE THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED ONE AND 69/100 ($31,901.69) DOLLARS, principal balance, interest accrued through April 28, 2023, in the amount of $711.14; interest accruing at the rate of 7.500% per annum from April 29, 2023, until paid; all amounts which PSB may pay in the future for property taxes, assessments, and insurance premiums, if any, related to the mortgaged property; and attorneys fees and all costs of this proceedings, as well as all sheriff’s costs and commissions
All successful bidders must have cash, cashier’s check or a verifiable letter of credit in favor of said bidder from a solvent bank, savings and loan association or other such financial institution authorized to do business in the state of Louisiana and full payment must be made on the date of sale. Letter must state that money is available on the date of sale.
I shall expose the same at public sale, for Cash, according to law WITHOUT ap- praisement to the last and highest bidder, at the principal front door of the 1st floor lobby area of the Court House in the Parish of St. Mary, Town of Franklin, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 8th day of November A.D., 2023, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Monday, the 21st day of August A.D., 2023
BLAISE W. SMITH,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. Oct. 6 and Nov. 1, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
WARDS 5 & 8 JOINT SEWER COMMISSION
P. O. Box 181
Berwick, La 70342
MINUTES
September 5, 2023
The meeting was called to order by Mr. Lopez at 6:00 PM.
Present: Michael Stewart, Calvin Sanders Sr., Joe Walker, Gary Beadle, Chris Cooper, Mickey Carmouche, Larry Fromenthal, Pam Fromenthal, Karen Sehon, and Rafael Lopez.
The board went over the minutes of previous month’s meeting. Mr. Cooper moved to disburse the reading of the minutes and accept. Mr. Stewart seconded the motion.
The board then went over the treasurer’s report. Mr. Stewart motioned to approve the treasurer’s report and sign checks if all in order. Mr. Beadle seconded the motion.
The writing of by-laws revisions is completed. A copy has been sent to all entities awaiting a received response. Once received, Mrs. Sehon will file at clerk of courts office.
Mr. Calvin Sanders Sr. has applied for the job opening. The board discussed his rate of pay of $30.00/hr. It was approved due to his experience and certifications. Mr. Beadle motion-ed to raise Mr. Carmouche rate of pay to $33.00/hr. effective 9/5/2023. Mr. Cooper seconded the motion. Mr. Sanders will let us know when ready for drug screen/physical to be scheduled. The board asked Mrs. Sehon to check medical insurance group rates and phone plans for the next meeting. She will get the new hire paperwork together for Mr. Sanders. Mrs. Sehon asked to move the medical insurance employee portion for discussion at the next meeting.
Mrs. Sehon re- ported the DEQ Settlement agreement has been completed.
Mr. Lopez mentioned getting another truck. We will need 3 quotes of trucks for regular ½ ton truck. Mr. Cooper will get the quotes on trucks.
Mr. Carmouche reported monthly maintenance. He was released to full duty on Aug. 21. He reported trouble starting pumps at the plant this week. The golf course pump can pump 3 million gallons a week. Aerators will be returned to station. He has been working at Station 3 to break up sediment that is currently floating in the pit. He started the toxicity test on Sunday. They should finish tomorrow. He is working on lab reports. He is working with engineers on a letter for DEQ about the toxicity results for the last 3 months. He will get with the engineering firm for specs to get ball going on bids.
Next meeting scheduled for Monday, October 2, 2023.
Having no further business, Mr. Stewart motioned to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Beadle seconded the motion.
———————
Chairperson
———————
Secretary/Treasurer
Adv. Oct. 6, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF
BERWICK,
LOUISIANA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
MEETING
Public Meeting Date: October 10, 2023
Call to Order: 6:00 P.M.
Place: Council Meeting Room, 3225 Third Street, Berwick, LA 70342
A Public Hearing will be held as follows:
Date: October 10, 2023
Time: 6:15 P.M.
Place: Council Meeting Room, 3225 Third Street, Berwick, LA 70342
Prayer
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call: James Richard, Kevin Hebert, Colleen Askew, Raymond Price & Lud Henry
Minutes from last meeting: September 12, 2023
Treasurer’s Report
Guests:
The Beacon Shines on:
Police Report:
Fire Report
Public Works Report
Consulting Engineers Report
Committee Reports
PUBLIC HEARING
1. Public Hearing for Ordinance No. 743 – Water Rates for Commercial & Industrial Customers
ORDINANCES – INTRODUCE/ADOPT
1. Adopt Ordinance No. 744 – Water Rates for Commercial & Industrial Customers
RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS
1. Resolution No. 01-24 – Resolution of Action or Non-Action - Lead Wrapped Cable Class Action
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Declare Surplus Property
1997 White Ford F-150 VIN# 1FTDF1722VNB84106
1978 Red Ford Pick Up Truck VIN# F50CCH11185
1982 Red Ford Pump Truck VIN# 1FDPF82K9CVA13844
1985 Red Hurricane Pumper VIN# 1F9ABAA88F103 7182
2006 White Ford F-150 VIN# 1FRTF12W16NB01959
1997 Yellow GMC Street Sweeper VIN# J8DC4B1K0V7006844
1982 Beige International Stake Body VIN# 1HTSAZRM2NH394242
2002 White Chevy Pick-Up Truck VIN# 1GCEC14W12Z211806
1982 Ford Model 555 Tractor with Backhoe and Front End Loader Serial# C69043414
1991 Ford Model 4630 Tractor - No Serial #
2. Atchafalaya Lodge #62 – Boot Drive
3. Presentation by Burns Charest LLP – Regarding Lead Wrapped Cable Litigation
4. Executive Session - Regarding Lead Wrapped Cable Litigation
5. Joey Thibodeaux – Sink holes
Adjournment
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Jamie Keith, Town Clerk, at (985) 384-8858, P.O. Box 486, Berwick, LA 70342 describing the assistance that is necessary.
Adv. Oct. 6, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Statement of Ownership,
Management and
Circulation
Date of Filing: 09/30/2023
THE MORGAN CITY REVIEW
UPS No. 145-840
Published semi-weekly, Wednesday and Friday at 1014 Front St., Morgan City, St. Mary Parish, LA 70380. Number of issues published annually: 104. Annual Subscription Cost: $83. Publisher: Mary L Terry, 1014 Front St., Morgan City, LA 70380, Editor: Bill Decker, 1014 Front St., Morgan City, LA 70380. Owner: LSN Publishing, LLC, B.I. Moody III, 600 Jefferson St., Lafayette, LA 70501. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: Floyd S. Shirley, 207 Thomas Dr., Lagrange, GA 30240; Doyle A. Shirley, 1808 W. Garner St., Morgan City, LA 70380; Allan Von Werder, 614 Main St., Franklin, LA 70538.
Total Number of Copies (Net press run): 2500. Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions: 48 Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions: 775. Paid Distribution Outside the Mails including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS: 1535. Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS: 0. Total Paid Distribution: 2460. Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies on PS Form 3541: 6. Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541: 7. Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail: 0. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means): 30. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: 43. Total Distribution: 2481 Copies not Distributed: 19. TOTAL: 2500. Percent Paid: 99%. Paid Electronic Copies: 958 Total Paid Print Copies +Paid Electronic Copies: 3418. Total Print Distribution +Paid Electronic Copies:3439. Percent Paid: 99%.
Previous 12 months (Net press run): 2500. Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions: 58. Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions: 835. Paid Distribution Outside the Mails including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS: 1550 Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS: 0. Total Paid Distribution: 2443. Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies on PS Form 3541: 6. Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541: 10. Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail: 0. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means): 24. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: 40. Total Distribution: 2483 Copies not Distributed: 17. TOTAL: 2500. Percent Paid: 99%. Paid Electronic Copies: 950. Total Paid Print Copies +Paid Electronic Copies: 3393. Total Print Distribution +Paid Electronic Copies:3433. Percent Paid: 99%.
I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (Electronic and Print) are paid above a nominal price.
I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).
/Signed/ Mary L. Terry,
Publisher
Adv. 10/06/2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE
Proposed Constitutional Amendments to be voted on at the Gubernatorial General Election November 18, 2023
----------
CODING: Words which are struck through are deletions from existing law; words in boldface type and/or underscored are additions.
Proposed Amendment No. 1
Regular Session, 2022
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ACT No. 278
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HOUSE BILL NO. 166
BY REPRESENTATIVE GREGORY MILLER
A JOINT RESOLUTION
Proposing to amend Article III, Section 18 of the Constitution of Louisiana, to provide relative to gubernatorial action on a bill and matters related thereto; to provide relative to veto sessions; to provide for submission of the proposed amendment to the electors; and to provide for related matters.
Section 1. Be it resolved by the Legislature of Louisiana, two-thirds of the members elected to each house concurring, that there shall be submitted to the electors of the state of Louisiana, for their approval or rejection in the manner provided by law, a proposal to amend Article III, Section 18 of the Constitution of Louisiana, to read as follows:
§18. Gubernatorial Action on Bills; Sign, Failure to Sign, Veto; Veto Session
Section 18.(A) Gubernatorial Action. If the governor does not approve a bill, he may veto it. A bill, except a joint resolution, shall become law if the governor signs it or if he fails to sign or veto it within ten days after delivery to him if the legislature is in the session in which the bill passed on the tenth day after such delivery, or within twenty days after delivery if the tenth day after delivery occurs after the legislature legislative session in which the bill passed is adjourned.
(B) Veto Message. If the governor vetoes a bill, he shall return it to the legislature, with his veto message, within twelve days after delivery to him if the legislature is in the session in which the bill passed. If the governor returns a vetoed bill after the legislature adjourns legislative session in which the bill passed is adjourned, he shall return it, with his veto message, as provided by law.
(C) Veto Session. (1) A bill vetoed and returned and subsequently approved by two-thirds of the elected members of each house shall become law. The legislature shall meet in veto session in the state capital at noon on the fortieth day following final adjournment of the most recent each session in which a bill that finally passed was vetoed, to consider all bills passed during that session that were vetoed by the governor and that were not reconsidered by the house of origin during the session in which the bill passed. If the fortieth day falls on Sunday, the session shall convene at noon on the succeeding Monday. No veto session shall exceed five calendar days, and any veto session may be finally adjourned prior to the end of the fifth day upon a vote of two-thirds of the elected members of each house.
(2) No veto session shall be held if a majority of the elected members of either house declare in writing that a veto session is unnecessary. The declaration must be received by the presiding officer of the respective houses at least five days prior to the day on which the veto session is to convene.
(3) If a veto session is to be held and the time period for the conduct of the veto session occurs during a regular or extraordinary session of the legislature, the legislature may reconsider all bills vetoed by the governor and not previously reconsidered by the legislature as part of the business of the regular or extraordinary session during the time period set forth in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph without the necessity of convening or adjourning a separate veto session.
Section 2. Be it further resolved that if this proposed amendment is approved by a majority of the voters voting thereon in the state, it shall become effective on January 8, 2024.
Section 3. Be it further resolved that this proposed amendment shall be submitted to the electors of the state of Louisiana at the statewide election to be held on November 18, 2023.
Section 4. Be it further resolved that on the official ballot to be used at the election, there shall be printed a proposition, upon which the electors of the state shall be permitted to vote YES or NO, to amend the Constitution of Louisiana, which proposition shall read as follows:
Do you support an amendment to clarify that the timing of gubernatorial action on a bill and his return of a vetoed bill to the legislature is based upon the legislative session in which the bill passed and to authorize the legislature, if it is in session, to reconsider vetoed bills without convening a separate veto session? (Effective January 8, 2024)(Amends Article III, Section 18)
Proposed Amendment No. 2
Regular Session, 2023
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ACT No. 199
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HOUSE BILL NO. 254
BY REPRESENTATIVE THOMAS
A JOINT RESOLUTION
Proposing to repeal Article VII, Sections 4(D)(4)(b), 10.4, 10.10, and 10.12(B) and (C) and Article IX, Sections 9 and 10 of the Constitution of Louisiana, relative to special funds in the state treasury; to provide for the repeal of certain special funds; to provide for the transfer of remaining balances of such special funds; to provide for submission of the proposed amendments to the electors; and to provide for related matters.
Section 1. Be it resolved by the Legislature of Louisiana, two-thirds of the members elected to each house concurring, that there shall be submitted to the electors of the state of Louisiana, for their approval or rejection in the manner provided by law, a proposal to repeal Article VII, Sections 4(D)(4)(b), 10.4, 10.10, and 10.12(B) and (C) of the Constitution of Louisiana.
Section 2. Be it further resolved by the Legislature of Louisiana, two-thirds of the members elected to each house concurring, that there shall be submitted to the electors of the state of Louisiana, for their approval or rejection in the manner provided by law, a proposal to repeal Article IX, Sections 9 and 10 of the Constitution of Louisiana.
Section 3. Be it further resolved that the state treasurer is hereby authorized and directed to transfer any remaining balances in the funds repealed by this Joint Resolution to the state general fund upon the adoption of the amendment contained in this Joint Resolution.
Section 4. Be it further resolved that this proposed amendment shall be submitted to the electors of the state of Louisiana at the statewide election to be held on November 18, 2023.
Section 5. Be it further resolved that on the official ballot to be used at the election, there shall be printed a proposition, upon which the electors of the state shall be permitted to vote YES or NO, to amend the Constitution of Louisiana, which proposition shall read as follows:
Do you support an amendment to remove provisions of the Constitution of Louisiana which created the following inactive special funds within the state treasury: Atchafalaya Basin Conservation Fund, Higher Education Louisiana Partnership Fund, Millennium Leverage Fund, Agricultural and Seafood Products Support Fund, First Use Tax Trust Fund, Louisiana Investment Fund for Enhancement and to provide for the transfer of any remaining monies in such funds to the state general fund? (Repeals Article VII, Sections 4(D)(4)(b), 10.4, 10.10, and 10.12(B) and (C) and Article IX, Sections 9 and 10)
Proposed Amendment No. 3
Regular Session, 2023
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ACT No. 179
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SENATE BILL NO. 127
BY SENATOR DUPLESSIS
A JOINT RESOLUTION
Proposing to add Article VII, Section 21(O) of the Constitution of Louisiana, relative to ad valorem tax exemptions; to provide for an ad valorem tax exemption for certain first responders; to require the parish governing authority to approve the ad valorem tax exemption; to provide for exemption amounts; to require the tax assessor to establish a procedure to apply for the exemption; to provide for eligibility; to require taxing authorities to absorb the loss of revenue as a result of the exemptions; to provide relative to reappraisals; to provide an effective date; to provide for applicability; and to specify an election for submission of the proposition to electors and provide a ballot proposition.
Section 1. Be it resolved by the Legislature of Louisiana, two-thirds of the members elected to each house concurring, that there shall be submitted to the electors of the state, for their approval or rejection in the manner provided by law, a proposal to add Article VII, Section 21(O) of the Constitution of Louisiana, to read as follows:
§21. Other Property Exemptions
Section 21. In addition to the homestead exemption provided for in Section 20 of this Article, the following property and no other shall be exempt from ad valorem taxation:
* * *
(O)(1) In addition to the homestead exemption authorized pursuant to the provisions of Article VII, Section 20 of this constitution, which applies to the first seven thousand five hundred dollars of the assessed valuation of property, a parish governing authority may approve an ad valorem tax exemption of up to two thousand five hundred dollars of the assessed valuation of property receiving the homestead exemption that is owned and occupied by a qualified first responder.
(2) For the purposes of this Paragraph, “first responder” shall mean a volunteer firefighter who has completed within the tax year no fewer than twenty-four hours of firefighter continuing education and is an active member of the Louisiana State Firemen’s Association or is on the departmental personnel roster of the Volunteer Firefighter Insurance Program of the office of state fire marshal. For the purposes of this Paragraph, “first responder” shall also mean a full-time public employee whose duties include responding rapidly to an emergency and who resides in the same parish in which their employer is located. The term includes the following:
(a) Peace officer, which means any sheriff, police officer, or other person deputized by proper authority to serve as a peace officer.
(b) Fire protection personnel.
(c) An individual certified as emergency medical services personnel.
(d) An emergency response operator or emergency services dispatcher who provides communication support services for an agency by responding to requests for assistance in emergencies.
(3) The exemption provided for in this Paragraph shall only apply in a parish if it is approved by the parish governing authority.
(4) Each tax assessor shall establish a procedure whereby a person may annually apply for the exemption which shall include the production of documents by the first responder. In the application for the exemption, the first responder shall produce documentation issued by his employer evidencing employment for the taxable period for which the exemption is being requested.
(5) Notwithstanding any provision of this constitution to the contrary, any decrease in the total amount of ad valorem tax collected by the taxing authority as a result of an ad valorem tax exemption granted pursuant to this Paragraph shall be absorbed by the taxing authority and shall not create any additional tax liability for other taxpayers in the taxing district as a result of any subsequent reappraisal and valuation or millage adjustment. Implementation of the exemption authorized in this Paragraph shall neither trigger nor be cause for a reappraisal of property or an adjustment of millages.
Section 2. Be it further resolved that this proposed amendment shall be submitted to the electors of the state of Louisiana at the statewide election to be held on November 18, 2023.
Section 3. Be it further resolved that this proposed amendment, if approved by the electors, shall become effective on January 1, 2024, and shall apply to ad valorem taxes due beginning in tax year 2024 and thereafter.
Section 4. Be it further resolved that on the official ballot to be used at said election, there shall be printed a proposition, upon which the electors of the state shall be permitted to vote YES or NO, to amend the Constitution of Louisiana, which proposition shall read as follows:
Do you support an amendment to authorize the local governing authority of a parish to provide an ad valorem tax exemption for qualified first responders? (Adds Article VII, Section 21(O))
Proposed Amendment No. 4
Regular Session, 2023
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ACT No. 198
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HOUSE BILL NO. 244
BY REPRESENTATIVE BISHOP
A JOINT RESOLUTION
Proposing to amend Article VII, Section 10.15(E)(1) and (F) and to add Article VII, Section 10.15(G) of the Constitution of Louisiana, relative to the use of monies in the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund; to provide for submission of the proposed amendment to the electors; and to provide for related matters.
Section 1. Be it resolved by the Legislature of Louisiana, two-thirds of the members elected to each house concurring, that there shall be submitted to the electors of the state of Louisiana, for their approval or rejection in the manner provided by law, a proposal to amend Article VII, Section 10.15(E)(1) and (F) and to add Article VII, Section 10.15(G) of the Constitution of Louisiana, to read as follows:
§10.15. Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund
Section 10.15. Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund.
* * *
(E)(1) Except as provided for in Paragraph (F) (G) of this Section, monies deposited into the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund shall be permanently credited to the trust fund and shall be invested by the treasurer in a manner provided for by law.
* * *
(F)(1) Except as provided in Subparagraphs (2) and (3) Paragraph (G) of this Paragraph Section, no appropriations shall be made from the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund.
(2)(a) (G)(1) In any fiscal year in which the balance of the fund at the beginning of the year is in excess of five billion dollars, hereinafter referred to as the minimum fund balance, the legislature may appropriate an amount not to exceed ten percent, in the aggregate, of the fund balance, hereinafter referred to as the allowable percentage, for the following: for capital outlay projects in the comprehensive state capital budget, transportation infrastructure, or both.
(i) Capital outlay projects in the comprehensive state capital budget.
(ii) Transportation infrastructure.
(b) The minimum fund balance or the allowable percentage may be changed by a law enacted by two-thirds of the elected members of each house of the legislature.
(3) In order to ensure the money in the fund is available for appropriation in an emergency the legislature may authorize an appropriation from the fund at any time for any purpose only after the consent of two-thirds of the elected members of each house of the legislature. If the legislature is not in session, the two-thirds requirement may be satisfied upon obtaining the written consent of two-thirds of the elected members of each house of the legislature in a manner provided by law.
(2) In addition to Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph, monies in the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund may be used as follows:
(a) If after the incorporation of the maximum allowable use of monies from the Budget Stabilization Fund into the official forecast for the next fiscal year, the official forecast for the next fiscal year is less than the official forecast money for the current fiscal year, the difference, not to exceed two hundred fifty million dollars, may be incorporated into the next fiscal year’s official forecast.
(b) If after the appropriation of the maximum allowable use of monies from the Budget Stabilization Fund for the current fiscal year, a deficit for the current fiscal year is projected due to a decrease in the official forecast, an amount not to exceed two hundred fifty million dollars may be appropriated.
(c) The consent of two-thirds of the elected members of each house of the legislature shall be required prior to the utilization of any monies in the fund pursuant to the provisions of this Subparagraph. If the legislature is not in session, the two-thirds requirement may be satisfied upon obtaining the written consent of two-thirds of the elected members of each house of the legislature in a manner provided by law.
(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Paragraph, any of the following may be changed by law enacted by two-thirds of the elected members of each house of the legislature:
(a) The minimum fund balance, the allowable percentage that may be withdrawn, or both, as provided in Subparagraph (1) of this Paragraph.
(b) The maximum amount that may be withdrawn as provided Subparagraph (2) of this Paragraph.
Section 2. Be it further resolved that this proposed amendment shall be submitted to the electors of the state of Louisiana at the statewide election to be held on November 18, 2023.
Section 3. Be it further resolved that on the official ballot to be used at the election, there shall be printed a proposition, upon which the electors of the state shall be permitted to vote YES or NO, to amend the Constitution of Louisiana, which proposition shall read as follows:
Do you support an amendment authorizing the legislature, after securing a two-thirds vote of each house, to use up to two hundred fifty million dollars from the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund to alleviate a budget deficit subject to conditions set forth by law and allowing the legislature to modify such conditions for accessing the monies in the fund, subject to two-thirds vote? (Amends Article VII, Section 10.15(E)(1) and (F); Adds Article VII, Section 10.15(G))
Adv. Oct. 6, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
The City of Morgan City hereby advertises bids for construction of WATER TREATMENT PLANT IMPROVEMENTS PHASE I, MORGAN CITY, LOUISIANA
as follows:
Owner: THE CITY OF MORGAN CITY
Project Title: WATER TREATMENT PLANT IMPROVEMENTS PHASE I MORGAN CITY, LOUISIANA
Sealed bids marked “Sealed Bid – Water Treatment Plant Improvements Phase I, Morgan City, Louisiana” will be received at the City of Morgan City Hall, 512 1st Street, Morgan City, LA 70380. Electronic bids should be submitted to www.centralbidding.com.
Bids shall be addressed to the City of Morgan City and delivered to the City of Morgan City Hall located at 512 1st Street, Morgan City, LA 70380 or electronically submitted at www.centralbidding.com no later than 2:00 P.M. local time on Friday, October 20, 2023.
Any bid re- ceived after the specified time and date will not be considered. The sealed bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at 2:00 P.M. local time on Friday, October 20, 2023, at the City of Morgan City Hall located at 512 1st Street, Morgan City, LA 70380.
The information for Bidders, Form of Bid Proposal, Form of Contract, Plans, Specifications, and Forms of Bid Bond, Performance Bond and Payment Bond, and other contract documents may be examined at the office of Professional Engineering and Environmental Consultants, Inc. at 46148 LA Highway 445, Robert, LA 70455. If you would like to examine a set of plans or pick up a set, please contact Jeff Meyers at (225) 268-6925 or jeff@peecinc.com to set up a time. A set of such documents may be obtained from the Engineers by prospective bidders upon payment of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS ($150.00) deposit. This de- posit will be re- funded upon re- quest in accordance with R.S. 38:2212. An electronic set of Contract Documents, Technical Specifications and Drawings may be obtained by submitting a request to james@peecinc.com and is available on www.centralbidding.com.
All questions must be submitted in writing by email to james@peecinc.com.
Each Bidder must deposit with his/her bid, security in the amount, form and subject to the conditions provided in the In- formation for Bidders. Sureties used for obtaining bonds must appear as acceptable on the U.S. Department of Treasury Circular 570.
No bid may be withdrawn for at least forty-five (45) days after scheduled closing time for receipt of bids.
The Owner re- serves the right to reject any and all bids for just cause. Such actions will be in accordance with Title 38 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. All bidders must sign: (1) the Bid; (2) Certificate of Corporate Principal and Surety; (3) any Addenda issued; and (4) Bid Bond which MUST always accompany the bid in the correct amount.
A Corporate Resolution authorizing a representative of the corporation to sign the bid MUST accompany the bid if the bidder is a corporation.
A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at the City of Morgan City Water Treatment Plant located at 1617 Federal Avenue, Morgan City, LA 70380.
The Contractor shall begin mobilization and procurement of materials within ten (10) working days of receipt of the Notice to Proceed.
The successful bidder will be re- quired to execute the OWNER’S Standard Form of Agreement/Contract for construction together with the Performance and Payment Bonds within ten (10) working days after normal award of contract.
Any person with disabilities requiring special accommodations must contact the City of Morgan City Mayor’s Office at (985) 385-1770 no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening.
The OWNER hereby notifies all bidders that in regard to any contract entered into pursuant to this Advertisement, that Minority Business Enterprises will be afforded equal opportunity to submit offers in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin or disability in consideration for an award.
IN PARTICULAR, BIDDERS SHOULD NOTE THE REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS AND CERTIFICATIONS TO BE EXECUTED AND SUBMITTED WITH THE BID PROPOSAL.
Adv. Sept. 22, 29 and Oct. 6, 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, October 16, 2023, AT 5:45 P.M. in the Parish Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana, for the following purposes:
REZONE RE- QUEST:
Rezoning of property from Existing Neighborhood (EN1) to Existing Neighborhood (EN2)
by Curnis J. Simon located at 214 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 3 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524026.00- Lot 15 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 27H 206605
by Russell J. Olander located at 232 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 3 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524029.00- Lot 14 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 27C 205673 Improvement on the Land of Olander Russell J Acq. 27C 205673
by Roland Olander located at 244 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 4 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524030.00- Lot 13 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 44A 273196
by Daryl J. Simon located at 256 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 3 & 4 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524032.00 & 1274524033.00- Lot Por No 12 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205675 situated Sec 3 T15S R7E Acq. 282 317401 Improvements Improvement on the Land of Simon Daryl J & Lot Por No. 12 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 situated Sec. 4 T15S R7E Acq. 282 317401
by Troy Olander located at 262 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 4 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524034.00- Lot 11 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 44E 273767
by Brenda Lalonde located at 276 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 4 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524037.00- Lot 10 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 200 306086
by Curnis Joseph Simon located at 284 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 4 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524038.00- Lot 9 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 43W 272503
by Daryl J. Simon located at 292 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 4 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524039.00- Lot 8 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 104 292602
by Thomas Olander located at 298 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 4 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524042.00- Lot 7 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 44A 273197
by Brenda La- londe located at 299 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 4 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524041.00- Lot 6 Hazel Olan-der Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 44D 273608
by Rodney Olander located at 291 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 4 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524040.00- Lot 5 Hazel Olan-der Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 44D 273716
by Rodney Gee located at 275 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 4 T15S R7E; -Parcel Id# 1274524041.00- Lot 4 Hazel Olan-der Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 378 331550
by Douglas Olander located at 265 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 3 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524035.00- Lot South 135 ft. No. 3 Hazel Olan-der Subd also being Tract ABCDA per Plat 36H 242741 Acq. 36H 242741
by Edward Olan-der located at 249 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 3 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524069.00- Lot North 265 FT NO 3 Hazel Olan-der Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 27C 205674 im- provements
by Alex P. Vige located at 227 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 3 T15S R7E; -Parcel Id# 1274524028.00- Lot 2 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 378 331494
by Curnis J. Simon located at 223 Hazel Ln., Cypremort Point, LA -Sec. 3 T15S R7E: -Parcel Id# 1274524027.00- Lot Rem Por No 1 Hazel Olander Subd per Plat 27C 205673 Acq. 27H 206605 improvements improvement on the Land of Simon Curnis J. (ZON-1413)
All persons are invited to this meeting to submit their approval or objections to the above Rezone Re- quest.
St. Mary Parish Planning & Zoning Commission
Barry Druilhet,
Chairman
Adv. Sept. 29, Oct. 6 and 13, 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, October 16, 2023, AT 5:45 P.M. in the Parish Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana, for the following purposes:
SPECIFIC USE REQUEST:
Specific Use Request for St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Department to allow for a correctional institution or facilities (public or private)( motor pool and substation) in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District at 8924 Hwy 90 W Frontage Rd., Franklin, LA. -Sec.47 T15S R10E;
-Parcel Id# 2504501019.00- 4.07 Ac Por Lot No 5 Leila Pltn Per Plat SS 34628 Being Por 10 Ac Tract IEFGHI Per Plat 447 342290 Situated in Sec 47 T15S R10E Acq 30B217868.
Parcel #: 2504501018.00 -5.93 Ac Por Lot No 5 Leila Pltn Per Plat SS 34628 Being Por 10 Ac Tract IEFGHI Per Plat 447 342290 Situated in Sec 6 T15S R10E Acq 30b 217868. (ZON-1411)
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. Sept. 29, Oct. 6 and 13, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
As mandated by the by-laws of the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival and Fair Association, a general membership meeting has been scheduled for Monday, October 23, 2023 at 5:00pm in the Festival Office, located at 715 Second St, Morgan City, Louisiana. This will be a joint Membership and Board Meeting. This meeting has the purpose of accepting nominations and elections of members to the Festival Board of Directors. This is an annual meeting
Adv. Sept. 22, 29 and Oct. 6, 2023

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Patterson Garden Club starts 2023-24 year

Patterson Garden Club held its first monthly meeting of its 2023-24 year at the home of Iris Roy on the lower Atchafalaya River in Patterson. The business meeting was led by President Ginger Griffin. Plans were discussed for the year and yearbooks were given out. Members signed up for the Louisiana Garden Club Federation District 3 meeting to be held Oct. 24 in New Iberia. It will take the place of the club’s monthly meeting. Following business, members socialized by playing a game, and eating pizza and desserts. Attending were, seated from left, Griffin, Linda Thomas and Evelyn Estay. Standing from left are Roy, Sandra Marshall, Sharon Larson and Donna Bates-Ruffin.

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ST. MARY NOW

Franklin Banner-Tribune
P.O. Box 566, Franklin, LA 70538
Phone: 337-828-3706
Fax: 337-828-2874

Morgan City Review
1014 Front Street, Morgan City, LA 70380
Phone: 985-384-8370
Fax: 985-384-4255