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Morgan City P&Z will take a look at Shannon subdivision plan

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 10:08am

Staff Report

Morgan City’s zoning board will get a look at plans for a residential development on the M.D. Shannon Elementary property at a meeting Tuesday.

The Morgan City Planning & Zoning Commission will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Morgan City Court building.

On the agenda is a proposal “to divide 1.6 acres of property bordered by Federal Ave., Wise St., and the M.D. Shannon school playground to create a new residential subdivision.”

The commission will also consider “a new zoning district which shall be applied to the locality.”

Historic M.D. Shannon, which once housed Morgan City High School, was most recently M.D. Shannon Elementary. The St. Mary Parish School Board closed Shannon and Hernandez Elementary in 2015 as a cost-saving move during a time of declining enrollment.

The Shannon building continued to cost the School Board $40,000 a year in utilities and maintenance. The School Board began looking for a buyer.

Morgan City Mayor Lee Dragna stepped forward in August 2021 with a plan calling on the city government to buy the school. The building itself would be available to host city sports programs such as Biddy Basketball.

Dragna also proposed a residential development in the area bounded by Wise and Federal.

Under the original proposal, that property would be divided into 16 lots, each between 42 feet by 75 feet and 50 feet by 75 feet.

The lots would be laid out in two rows with a 37-foot common area — including an oval walking track — between them.

The lots would be sold by the city’s development district.

The city government bought the Shannon property in spring 2022 for $100,000 spread over three years.

The proposal looks like a win-win for the city government and the School Board, plus the local housing market.

But the idea may face some push-back.

Virgil Allen, the Mr. Charlie Rig Museum president, is also a resident of the neighborhood near Shannon.

He believes the city government could find a better use for the historic property.

“To me, that makes no sense,” Allen said. “What they want to do they can do somewhere else.”

Allen believes the lots could be a tough sell in a time with relatively high mortgage rates.

“You’ve already got empty lots,” Allen said. “You’ve got empty houses.”

This weekend ...

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 10:06am

Here are some events happening this weekend in St. Mary:

Juneteenth
Bike Ride

The third annual Juneteenth Community Bike Ride will be at 8 a.m. Saturday in Morgan City.
The ride will be from First and Barrow to the Jimmie Johnson Memorial Basketball Court.

Soul Food Festival
The 100 Black Men Soul Food Festival will be Friday and Saturday on Teche Drive from Willow to Jackson in Franklin. The event begins at 5 p.m. Friday. The festival will feature live music, a 5K race at 8 a.m. Saturday, soul food booths, a car show and a fishing tournament.

JORDAN POOLE

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 10:04am

Jordan Poole, 23, a native of Morgan City, died Thursday, June 1, 2023.

Visitation will be Saturday, 9-11 a.m., at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church in Morgan City, with funeral services following. Burial will follow in Morgan City Cemetery.

He is survived by his father, Christopher Singleton; daughter, Riley Poole; sisters, Latoya Gilliam and Aaliyah Poole, of Patterson, and Sheldriana Clark and Bri’on Skinner of Morgan City; brothers, Tyler Riles, Bryson Skinner, Brennan Skinner and

Christopher Singleton of Morgan City, and Denzel Poole of Florida; and grandfather, Edward Edmond.

He was preceded in death by his mother, maternal grandparents, and paternal grandmother.

Jones Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Dear Abby: Grad student frets over boyfriend's social life

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 9:58am

DEAR ABBY: My partner, “Josh,” and I (we’re both male) have been together for two years. We met while living in LA and were fortunate to be accepted to grad schools in NYC. We’re not living together now as our schools are in different boroughs, but we see each other most weekends.

Recently, Josh has been trying to make more friends, as our social network seems more heavily skewed toward people from my circles (school, past work, etc.). I have the benefit of living on a grad school campus with in-person classes. Ninety percent of my peers are within the three buildings around me. Josh’s school has more students spread around Manhattan.

I’m trying to figure out how I can support him making friends organically while not feeling like I’m ignoring him or missing out on time with him. We communicate well, and I’ve asked how I can help him, or if I should give him more space (i.e., not come over some weekends to give him more free time to make plans with other people), but he gets upset at me not being around when I could be.

I’m not sure how to support his social growth. I’ve tried suggesting he join student groups, take in-person classes rather than hybrid or online, join local events and groups, etc., but he seems resistant. What should I do?
OUT OF IDEAS IN THE BRONX

DEAR OUT OF IDEAS: You and your partner have very different personalities. It should be apparent that Josh likes being a part of your circle to the point that he doesn’t want to build one of his own. He also may feel more confident when you are close by.

As much as you care for him, this indicates a basic incompatibility. While this may be acceptable to you now, with time it may become an increasingly heavy burden. Couples counseling could be useful, perhaps from an LGBTQ community center or a student health center on your campus, to help you both thrash this out. From where I sit, it appears you are already doing as much to support Josh as you can.

DEAR ABBY: I am dating a guy I will be formally engaged to soon. My problem is I’m my mother’s caregiver, and it’s not an easy task. I love her and would do it all over again; however, I hope never to HAVE to do it again. My soon-to-be fiancé has several medical issues, and I don’t want to end up being HIS caregiver. I know something could just as well happen to me, but I’m very afraid of this. Please advise.
GIVING TOO MUCH IN MISSOURI

DEAR GIVING: What would you do if your boyfriend were to become seriously ill and in need of care TOMORROW? Would you run for the hills? While marriage carries a stronger obligation, if you love each other, would either of you end the relationship to avoid the responsibility? There are no guarantees in life. We take the bitter with the sweet. I understand caregiver burnout, which is what I suspect is your problem, but please do not become engaged until you have worked this out.

***
To order “How to Write Letters for All Occasions,” send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby — Letter Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.

Smokey corn is a classic campfire dish

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 9:56am

Many different foods call to mind campfire cooking. Foods cooked over an open fire take on a unique, smokey and savory flavor that is hard to replicate.

There's something special about collectively preparing, cooking and sharing a meal in the great outdoors that makes camping so appealing.

Although s'mores may be the first treat that comes to mind when considering classic campfire foods, everything from casseroles to soups to cobblers can suffice. Even vegetables and seafood can be cooked over a campfire with the right preparation.

Corn on the cob is a tasty side dish that is tailor-made for campsite cooking. The sweet flavor of corn complements just about any meal, and those kernels take on a robust flavor when touched with a little char. Enjoy this recipe for "Campfire Corn on the Cob," courtesy of Kampgrounds of America (KOA).

Campfire Corn
on the Cob
Serves 4
4 corn on the cob (do not husk) Water
1/2 to 1 cup sugar (optional)
Butter to taste
Salt to taste (optional)

Mix the water and sugar in a clean bucket, cooler or large pan (add enough water to cover corn). Add the corn to the water mixture and soak for 1 to 2 hours. Remove the corn from the water and place over the campfire or on the grill, turning often to avoid over-burning the husk. Cook for approximately 20 to 30 minutes or until tender; remove corn from the fire. Peel back the husk and silk, spread with butter and/or salt. Enjoy steaming hot.

Prepare pets for Fourth of July festivities

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 9:54am

Many people are eager for Independence Day celebrations in early summer. There is much to be excited about, as festivities often begin in the afternoon with barbecues and pool parties, and commence late at night after fireworks shows that light up the night sky.

Still, not everyone enjoys the extra noise and busy nature of July 4 parties, particularly furry members of the family.

Animal control services often report an increase in lost animals between July 4-6. That’s because the excitement of the holiday puts pets out of their comfort zones.

While pet owners need not cancel their Fourth of July plans, they should take heed of the many ways to keep their pets safe during the festivities.
Update identification

Be sure prior to any July 4 events that pets are wearing collars with current identification information. If an address or phone number has changed since the last time you updated microchip records, be sure to check the account is current.

Be careful with
alcoholic drinks
Party hosts typically serve beer, wine and cocktails. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets, says the ASPCA. Animals can become very intoxicated, severely depressed or go into comas if they drink alcohol. Keep spirited drinks well out of reach.

Check with the vet
Many pets are prone to anxiety from loud noises, such as thunderstorms and fireworks, and lots of commotion — something that occurs in spades come July 4. Some veterinarians recommend a small course of anti-anxiety medication or a sedative to help pets cope with the stimuli.

Create a quiet space

Allow pets to ride out the day in their comfortable, quiet and cozy retreats. If necessary, create a space in an interior room. Cover the pet crate with a blanket and offer favorite toys or bedding to create a soothing environment.

Place notes on
doors and gates

While it’s best to keep pets in a locked room away from the fray, some pets like to socialize with guests and are not bothered by noises. However, alert guests with notes posted on doors and fence gates to check to make sure pets are not trying to escape behind them. All doors should be closed firmly when entering or exiting.

Pick up debris
Firework debris can rain down on properties even if you were not shooting off the fireworks. Curious pets may pick it up or eat it, which runs the risk of an upset stomach or even an intestinal blockage. Check your yard before letting pets out to play.

Keep an eye
on the grill
Pets can be opportunists, and those burgers and chicken drumsticks smell delicious to pets. Pets that get too close to the grill can become injured. And if pets eat leftovers, they may end up with digestive distress or even be poisoned by foods that are toxic to cats and dogs.

Pets need to be protected during summertime parties like Independence Day celebrations.

Ribbon-cutting for The Market Unlimited

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 9:50am

St. Mary Chamber Photo
The St. Mary Chamber recently hosted a ribbon-cutting for The Market Unlimited & Creative Studio, 924 Seventh St., Morgan City. It's a sister store to The Market where you will be able to find gifts, home decor, handmade jewelry, locally made products and more. The Creative Studio gives customers the option to grab a blank wooden sign and paint it themselves. Owner Jennifer Comeaux was joined by friends, family, staff members, Chamber President Beth Chiasson and Chamber Chairwoman Laura R. Meadows.

Local students earn places on UL honors lists

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 9:48am

Sixty-one students from St. Mary were among those who earned places on University of Louisiana-Lafayette honors lists for the spring 2023 semester.

The President’s List includes students who were enrolled for least 12 credit hours with a grade point average of at least 3.8.

On the Dean’s List are students who carried 12 hours and earned a GPA of at least 3.5.

St. Mary students on the honors lists:

President’s List
Aaron Barrilleaux
Aimee Galloway
Alyssa Landry
Brenna Laubach
Bria Guidry
Caitlyn Chauvin
Chloe Simpson
Collin Kovac
Emma Marin
Eric Gorman
Ethan Blanco
Evan Trammell
Jacey Coomer
Jacob Cantrelle
Jami Lombardo
Kaitly Baudoin
KaShondra Joseph
Kennedi Look
Lanie Senette
Michelle Lam
Morgan Toups
Raven Gary
Ricky Adams
Rylie Candella
Sara Furman
Taylor Harris
William Splane

Dean’s List
Abby Dugas
Adrian Zuniga
Alexandra Fitch
Alyssa Young
Arianna Valentine
Arie Colar
Aymie Pearce
Bailee Lipari
Breanna Jenkins
Briana Richard
Brianne Leblanc
Caleb Aucoin
Caylie Scott
Chelsea Metzel
Christopher Acosta
Collin Faucheaux
Cristian Nguyen
Dylan Bourque
Emily Kimball
Erica Coleman
Gweneth Dohmann
Hailee Madise
Kade Pichoff
Kayla Baudoin
Kennedy Bellard
Khang Tran
Makayla Knight
Michael Hartenstine
Miya Hidalgo
Rachel Trammel
Rayne Hotard
Sarah Kuhlman
Sean Broussard
Zeph Delatte

St. Mary students earn degrees at Nicholls

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 9:47am

Fifty students from St. Mary Parish were among 710 who received degrees May 13 from Nicholls State University:

Beam, Hena, bachelor of science, birth-5 early intervention.
Benjamin, Patricia, bachelor of arts, psychology.
Billiot, Madison, bachelor of fine arts, art.
Breaux, Kennedy, bachelor of arts, psychology.
Broussard, Maci, bachelor of science, human performance education.
Carter, Mattie, bachelor of science, secondary education.
Castille, Amanda, bachelor of science, nursing.
Darden, Nina, bachelor of science, nursing.
Davis, Aaliyah, associate degree in general studies.
Dehart, Heaven, bachelor of arts, history.
Dupre, Zoie, bachelor of science, health sciences.
Duval, Harley, bachelor of arts, psychology.
Fabre, Camryn, bachelor of arts, English.
Favre, Jenna, bachelor of science, birth-5 early intervention.
Fontenot, Shelbi, bachelor of science, birth-5 early intervention.
Gouaux, Madison, bachelor of science, birth-5 early intervention.
Grizzaffi, Kennedy, associate degree in general studies.
Grogan, Gaylen, bachelor of science, health sciences.
Guerin, Farrah, associate degree in general studies.
Hebert, Aubree, bachelor of science, biology.
Hirschmann, Gage, bachelor of science, management.
Holmes, Kiley, bachelor of arts, psychology.
Ibert, Hunter, bachelor of science, health sciences.
Jenkins, Ashley, bachelor of science, health sciences.
Johnson, Macy, associate degree in general studies.
LaCoste, Emma, associate degree in general studies.
LaCoste, Hannah, associate degree in general studies.
Lambert, Dylan, AS, safety technology.
Landry, Zion, bachelor of science, culinary arts.
Luc, Kerrilyn, bachelor of science, biology.
Mahfouz, Tiffany, master’s, teaching 6-12.
Mancuso, Mitchell, bachelor of science, nursing.
Morella, Julie, bachelor of integrated studies, interdisciplinary studies.
Peterson, Karmen, bachelor of science, health sciences.
Pham, Lyne, associated degree in general studies.
Phillips, Jaylin, bachelor of science, nursing.
Ross, Gracie, bachelor of science, business administration.
Smith, Emmeli, bachelor of science, nursing.
Soileau, Megan, bachelor of arts, psychology.
Sons, Rose, bachelor of science, birth-5 early intervention.
Spinella, Jonathan, bachelor of science, mathematics.
Thomas, Troy, associate degree, petroleum services.
Toups, Austin, bachelor of arts, psychology.
Voisin, Jordyn, bachelor of arts, mass communications.
Washington, Jessica, bachelor of arts, English.
Whitehead, Tamara, bachelor of science, marketing.
Whitehead, Tia, bachelor of science, finance.
Williams, Selena, bachelor of science, computer information systems.
Wisdom, Gavin, bachelor of science, nursing.
Woods, Michaelynn, bachelor of science, elementary education 1-5.

Some lawmakers expect to return for veto session

Thu, 06/15/2023 - 9:46am

VICTOR SKINNER, The Center Square

Lawmakers in the Louisiana House and Senate anticipate a return to Baton Rouge later this month for a veto override session, citing recent comments from Gov. John Bel Edwards.

Edwards signaled his intent to veto legislation he characterized as attacks on the LGBTQ and transgender communities during an end-of-session press conference last week.

The legislation includes bills to prohibit the discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation in public schools, require parental approval for schools to use transgender students’ preferred names or pronouns, and a ban on sex change drugs and surgeries for minors.

“I think there’s going to be an interest (in an override session) if the governor does veto those bills,” Rep. Jerome Zeringue, R-Houma, said in PAR Louisiana webinar on Tuesday.

Sen. Cameron Henry, R-Metairie, noted that some bills passed both chambers by wide margins.

“I would be surprised if we’re not back,” he said.

The veto override session is automatically scheduled once the governor rejects legislation, and all vetoes and line item vetoes are considered unless a majority of members in either chamber vote to skip the session.

“I’m hoping the governor will veto the bills and if they’re overridden, so be it,” said Sen. Sam Jenkins, D-Shreveport. “From our perspective, Louisiana has to become more tolerant … of people of all races and sexual orientations.”

The lawmakers noted it’s also likely Edwards could use line-item vetoes to restore $100 million cut from the governor’s requested funding for the Louisiana Department of Health as part of a budget compromise between the chambers last week.

Despite the cut, LDH’s $15 billion budget was still increased by $144 million. The reduction, Zeringue said, was based in part on an accelerated timeline for Medicaid redeterminations.

Lawmakers approved a total of $51 million in spending for the fiscal year that begins July 1 in a last-minute vote on Thursday as the Legislature devolved into chaos over compromises between the House and Senate devised by a six-member conference committee.

Many lawmakers were not aware of the $100 million cut to LDH, and many were forced to vote before fully vetting the legislation, they complained. The budget finale followed a vote to increase the state’s spending cap that was opposed by fiscal conservatives and a coalition of Louisiana organizations that would have preferred to invest more in paying down unfunded pension liabilities and funding the Rainy Day Fund. Those investments would have moved the state toward triggers to reduce taxes on residents and businesses.

Zeringue noted that $689 million was devoted to unfunded pension liabilities in the final budget, including $300 million in recurring revenues spent on one-time expenses.

That “$300 million will be available next year … and this will go a long way to continue the fiscally responsible approach to budgeting,” he said.

Zeringue blamed much of the last-minute budget chaos on a flood of about 1,000 amendments that were incorporated in the waning hours but acknowledged “we need to do a better job” in the future.

Henry said another contributing factor was “Senate leadership didn’t share with the members what the negotiations were with the House.”

“This year, for whatever reason, it was kept close to the vest,” he said. “We had limited access to the information.”

“I anticipate having some rule changes … to allow a committee report to lay over for some period of time,” Henry said.