Submitted photo
Immanuel Christian School, 901 Fig St., Morgan City, celebrated its first graduation in decades Monday. The graduate was Darianna Duet, the daughter of Darwin and Jhoanna Duet. She led the worship in the junior/high school chapel. Darianna plans to attend Eastern Florida State College.
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.
Wednesday, May 13
7:25 a.m. 1200 block of North Prescott Street; Animal complaint.
7:29 a.m. Glenwood Street; Animal complaint.
8:09 a.m. 300 block of Patton Street; Animal complaint.
8:12 a.m. 100 block of South Railroad Avenue; Complaint.
8:14 a.m. 900 block of Short Street; Complaint.
8:28 a.m. 3000 block of Helen Drive; Animal complaint.
9:05 a.m. 500 block of Terrebonne Street; Animal complaint.
9:46 a.m. 2400 block of Tiger Drive; Complaint.
10:16 a.m. 600 block of Arizona Street; Complaint.
10:19 a.m. 1200 block of Greenwood Street; Vehicle accident.
10:24 a.m. 800 block of David Drive; Welfare concern.
11:05 a.m. 500 block of Freret Street; Medical.
11:17 a.m. Hilda Street; Animal complaint.
11:37 a.m. Hilda/Maple streets; Assistance.
11:44 a.m. 900 block of Willard Street; Complaint.
12:18 p.m. 7600 block of La. 182; Alarm.
12:38 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Vehicle accident.
1:16 p.m. La. 182/Myrtle Street; Stalled vehicle.
2:08 p.m. 600 block of Brashear Avenue; Complaint.
2:41 p.m. Levee Road near Discount Furniture; Animal complaint.
2:44 p.m. 700 block of Belanger; Medical.
3:03 p.m. Brashear Avenue/Victor II Boulevard; Vehicle accident.
3:28 p.m. Railroad Avenue/Headland Street; Complaint.
4:08 p.m. 3000 block of Catherine Street; Suspicious vehicle.
4:55 p.m. 300 block of Wren Street; Complaint.
5:08 p.m. 600 block of Shannon Street; Medical.
7:10 a.m. 700 block of Marshall Street; Alarm.
5:16 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Complaint.
5:34 p.m. 1200 block of Brashear Avenue; Suspicious person.
5:37 p.m. 1000 block of Shaw Drive; Medical.
5:40 p.m. 3000 block of Roderick Street; Frequent patrol.
5:54 p.m. David Drive/Glenwood Street; Suspicious subject.
5:58 p.m. Ditch Avenue/La. 182; Complaint.
6:42 p.m. 6400 block of La. 182; Complaint.
6:57 p.m. 200 block of Aucoin Street; Medical.
7:02 p.m. Ellzey/Onstead streets; Disturbance.
7:36 p.m. 600 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Arrest.
7:49 p.m. U.S. 90 East; Traffic incident.
8:32 p.m. 600 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Hit & run.
9:38 p.m. 1300 block of Railroad Avenue; Animal complaint.
10:43 p.m. 300 block of Everett Street; Juvenile complaint.
Thursday, May 14
1:02 a.m. 7300 block of La. 182; Assistance.
1:27 a.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Welfare concern.
3:21 a.m. La. 70; Animal complaint.
Mia Knight
Jazell Gray
Gracie Durapau
Remy Everitt
Paola Bobet-Torres
Shaylee Thibodeau
Mariah Blanchard
Katharine Yolanda Arias
Jolie Brown
Alicea Franklin
Patterson High has named the 10 top graduates who will lead the Class of 2026 at the 6 p.m. Friday Commencement..
The top graduates are:
Mia Knight
Mia Knight is the daughter of Korie Knight.
As a freshman, she had the highest GPA in Geometry and Allied Health, was a second-degree Crackerjack and was honorable All-District in softball. She won the newcomer award in softball and second place at the Student Art Show for painting, and was a Student of the Month.
As a sophomore, she had the highest GPA in Algebra II, was a fourth-degree Crackerjack, was named Outstanding Woodwind in band, and was a defensive MVP in softball. She was second-team All-District in softball.
Mia had the highest GPA in Psychology (dual enrollment) and highest GPA-Fine Arts (dual enrollment) as a junior. She was a sixth-degree Crackerjack, first-team All-District in softball and Artist of the Month.
As a senior, she had the highest GPA in FACS. She received the Felterman scholarship and the Mt. Pisgah Masonic Lodge scholarship. She was All-Academic with 4.0 GPA in softball and academic All-State. She was a first-team All-District pitcher.
She is a Kindness Award-winner and an eighth degree Crackerjack. She ranked No. 1 in her class and was Summa Cum Laude.
She plans to attend Baton Rouge Community College to pursue radiology in hopes of becoming a radiology tech working with CT scans and MRIs, as well as playing softball.
Jazell Gray
Jazell Gray is the daughter of Cherrelle Gray. She maintained a 4.0 grade point average while balancing extracurricular activities and a part-time job.
She has earned certifications as a clinical medical assistant and an emergency medical responder.
She has been a member of the Timberland Regiment, Color Guard and Winter Guard.
She has been a member of Key Club, Beta Club, Coastal Club, Senior Mentors, STEM Club and ARK Club.
She has danced at the Dance Company for seven years.
Jazell plans to attend LSU and major in nursing.
Gracie Durapau
Gracie Durapau is the daughter of Heather Durapau and Michael Durapau.
Among her accomplishments, she is a member of the National Society for Scholars, Senior Mentor and Shining Star.
She was a member of the 2025 Homecoming Court. She has been certified in CPR three times.
Gracie won first in sideline at the 2022-23 cheer camp, first place at the 2023-24 Science Fair and first in the 2024-25 Psychology Fair.
She has the earned the highest GPA in PE, Digital Media, Publications I, Food and Nutrition, English III, Environmental Science and Publications II.
She won the Heart of a Jill Award for volleyball in 2024-25.
She has been involved in cheerleading, volleyball, softball as manager, Student Council, the ARK Club, BETA Club, Ed Rising and Key Club. She is an ACT Score Jumper.
Gracie plans to attend Nicholls State University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in nursing.
Remy Everitt
Remy Everitt is the daughter of Craig and Gidget Everitt.
She is a top 10 graduate with a 4.0 GPA, an ACT Score Jumper and a member of the ACT Hall of Fame and the ACT 25+ Club. She won the English II Subject Award.
Remy has Adobe certification in Photoshop, Illustrator and Visual Design. She is a sixth-degree Crackerjack. She has received the Felterman Family Memorial and Crow-Allen scholarships and is an NSU Outstanding Student.
She has participated in band, Beta Club, Student Council, Winter Guard, Quiz Bowl and bowling.
Remy plans the attend the Louisiana Scholars’ College at Northwestern State University, where she will major in communications and minor in theatre. She plans to graduate with a master’s degree and work in hospitality and tourism at Universal Studios.
Paola Bobet-Torres
Paola Bobet-Torres is the daughter of Glorimar Torres Ortiz and Christian Bobet Gonzalez.
She is a 4.0 graduate and was the Student of the Year in 2025.
She was a member of the 2025 Homecoming Court. She was named Student of the Month in 2026.
She received Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator certification.
She was All-Academic 4.0 GPA Beyond the Game in volleyball.
Her high school activities were cheer team, band, volleyball, Dance Team, Student Council, BETA Club, 4-H Coastal Club, Key Club, ARK Club, Educators Rising, Insight, Winter Guard, Color Guard, Senior Mentors, Talent Music, the National Honors Society for Scholars and the Louisiana Youth Seminar.
Paola plans to attend Nicholls State University and major in psychology
Shaylee Thibodeau
Shaylee Thibodeau is the daughter of Shelby and Monique Thibodeau.
She is graduating Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA in the top 10, and scored a 24 on the ACT.
Shaylee is a seventh-degree Crackerjack and has earned certification as a clinical medical assistant.
She was a member of Beta Club for four years and the softball manager for a year.
She plans to attend Nicholls State to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in nursing.
Mariah Blanchard
Mariah Blanchard is the daughter of Elizabeth and Paul Blanchard.
She has maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout high school and has achieved fifth-degree Crackerjack.
She has received the varsity volleyball award and is an ACT Score Jumper. She has been named to the Principal’s List and won second place in the Voice of Democracy Essay Contest.
Her activities included volleyball, ARK Club and Insight.
Mariah plans to attend LSUE and major in medical sonography to become a professional ultrasound technician.
Katharine
Yolanda Arias
Katharine Yolanda Arias is the daughter of Jenny Jordan and Gabriel Fernandez.
She is a Word Millionaire and part of the PHS Coastal Club.
Katharine volunteered to tutor her peers for LEAP testing and attended AARP dinners with her peers to serve senior citizens meals.
She has achieved eighth-degree Crackerjack and has won multiple academic awards. After graduating, Katharine plans to attend UL Lafayette to major in biochemistry and become a pharmacist.
Jolie Brown
Jolie Brown is the daughter of Cherry and Jonathan Brown. She has been an active member of Beta Club, Key Club and Dance Team. She has served as Timberlette captain since 2024.
Jolie has also been part of other organizations such as ARK Club, Student Council and Senior Mentors. Outside of school, Jolie serves as a member of the Junior NAACP and works with other organizations that provide meals and toys, and advocates for the mental health of underprivileged youth.
Jolie has been selected as a recipient for numerous awards, including two honorable mentions in the St. Mary Parish Art Show, eighth-degree Crackerjack, Best All Around and ACT Workkeys Hall of Fame.
Jolie plans to attend LSU in Baton Rouge to study psychology pre-law and become an attorney.
Alicea Franklin
Alicea Franklin has won awards in Young Authors, Nicholls Reading Council in poetry, Beyond the Game All-Academic 2024-25, 4.0 Bowling from the LHSAA and highest GPA in African-American Studies.
She received the 4.0 Graduate Award, is a top 10 graduate and is an eighth-degree Crackerjack.
She is a KWBJ Shining Star, and her painting represented the St. Mary Parish School Board at the Louisiana School Board Association meeting in 2026.
She is a Student of the Year finalist at PHS. She is a Red Ribbon Drawing Contest winner and an Artist of the Month for September 2025. She took third in 3D art at the Beta Convention.
Alicea lettered in bowling and won MVP and highest average. She earned was third in the Winter Guard Championships.
She made the Principal’s List throughout high school and increased her ACT score to 27. She has had the top GPA in math, science, English and social studies subjects.
She has been in Beta Club, Student Council, STEM Club, and Talented Art and Gifted for four years. She has been in Key Club, Insight and Color Guard/Winter Guard for two years. She has been a Senior Mentor for one year.
Alicea plans to attend Nicholls State to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree majoring in culinary arts and minoring in fine arts.
Madison Lynette Comeaux
Cheyette Mikael Drummond
Natalie Nicole Faust
Reesa Noel Guillot
Porter Chief Hanagriff
Caroline Mary Izaguirre
Madison Aleece Izaguirre
Alyr Monae Knope
Marlee Jae LaCoste
Bryce Augustine Lemoine
Makenzie Paige Linn
Isabell Dee Ortiz
Allie Lynn Simoneaux
Jude Scott Tarver
Berwick High recently named its top graduates for the Class of 2026. The BHS Commencement will be at 7 p.m. Thursday at Geisler Stadium.
The top graduates are:
Madison Lynette Comeaux
Madison Lynette Comeaux is the daughter of Anstin and Jennifer Comeaux.
She was a four-year member of the cheer and basketball teams, serving as captain of both during her senior year. Madison was named an All-American cheerleader in her junior and senior years and received District Honorable Mention in basketball, along with All-Academic honors.
She was also involved in Beta, Student Council, HOSA, Educators Rising and Insight. Outside of school, Madison is active in her church and believes strongly in the value of faith.
After graduation, she plans to attend Nicholls State University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in nursing and later become a physician
Cheyenne Mikael Drummond
Cheyenne Mikael Drummond is the daughter of Erin LaSalle-Drummond and Micheal Drummond.
She served as HOSA president and was a member of Beta, Student Council, Interact, Hope Squad and New Generations.
Cheyenne volunteered at the AARP center and Special Olympics. She took part in the AHEC summer program and helped plan three successful blood drives at Berwick High.
She is also passionate about Miles’ Park with a Purpose, presenting to the Rotary Club, the town of Berwick and the Kiwanis Club to support the renovation of Pharr Park, and she volunteered at Pickleball with a Purpose to help fund the project.
Cheyenne is a member of the ACT 30s Club and maintains a 4.18 GPA. After graduation, she plans to attend Nicholls State University to study nursing and become a travel ER nurse.
Natalie
Nicole Faust
Natalie Nicole Faust is the daughter of Rodger and Jennifer Faust.
She was a member of the TopCats dance team while maintaining a 4.11 GPA. Natalie was involved in HOSA, where she served as historian her sophomore year, as well as Beta, Key Club, Interact and Student Council. She volunteered at the AARP building to help feed the elderly and donated blood at multiple school-hosted blood drives.
After graduation, Natalie plans to attend Nicholls State University and pursue a career as a nurse practitioner.
Reesa Noel Guillot
Reesa Noel Guillot is the daughter of Adam and Megan Guillot.
She was a four-year member of the Sound of Pride band, where she serves as vice president, and a four-year member of the TopCats dance team.
Reesa competed on the BHS bowling team for two years, earning Second Team All-District for the 2025-2026 season and recognition as a 2025-2026 SMPS LHSAA All-Academic athlete. She was also a four-year member of the Acts of Random Kindness club and a member of the ACT/WorkKeys Platinum Club.
After graduation, Reesa plans to attend UL Lafayette to major in biology with a concentration in ecology, evolution and marine biology, with the goal of becoming a marine biologist.
Porter Chief
Hanagriff
Porter Chief Hanagriff is the son of Angie and David Hanagriff.
He was a member of HOSA, Student Council, BETA, Interact and New Generations. Porter volunteered monthly at AARP dinners in Morgan City, passing out food and beverages to senior citizens, and volunteered at the Maison Jardin nursing home through HOSA.
Through the AHEC summer program, he job-shadowed at the Teche Action Clinic in Franklin, where he learned about different facets of the medical field. He also helped raise tens of thousands of dollars through New Generations for the renovation of Pharr Park.
After graduation, Porter plans to attend LSU to major in biochemistry with minors in Spanish and honors research, with the goal of becoming a doctor.
Caroline Mary
Izaguirre
Caroline Mary Izaguirre is the daughter of Camille and Carlos Izaguirre.
She is a Summa Cum Laude and top graduate of the 2026 class. Caroline was a four-year state qualifier in swim and a two-year state qualifier in power-lifting, and she also competed on the tennis and track teams.
She served as vice president of the Beta Club and secretary of the Sound of Pride in 2024, and she was a member of the Drama and Interact clubs.
After graduation, Caroline plans to attend Tulane University in New Orleans to major in biochemistry, with the goal of becoming a food scientist.
Madison
Aleece Izaguirre
Madison Aleece Izaguirre is the daughter of Michael and Kristie Izaguirre.
She was a member of cheer, cross country, track, Student Council, Beta and HOSA. Madison served as co-captain of the cheer team during her senior year and received the All-American Cheerleader award.
She qualified for the state cross country meet in her junior and senior years and was named to the All-Academic Scholar Team for track. She was recognized as both a PowerCat and a WiseCat.
After graduation, Madison plans to attend LSU to major in international trade and finance and later pursue a law degree to become a corporate lawyer.
Alayr Monae Knope
Alayr Monae Knope is the daughter of Crystal and Danny Knope.
She was a four-year member of the varsity volleyball and basketball teams and helped win the District Championship in basketball during her senior year. Alayr was also involved in HOSA, 4-H, Acts of Random Kindness and Interact.
She volunteered with Maison Jardin, Berwick sports teams, Berwick track meets and Berwick High School blood drives. Alayr earned Principal’s List recognition every year and scored a 31 on the ACT.
After graduation, she plans to attend Nicholls State University to major in elementary education and return to Berwick as an elementary teacher to give back to her community.
Marlee Jae
LaCoste
Marlee Jae LaCoste is the daughter of Shanna and Jason LaCoste.
She was a four-year member of FFA, BETA, HOSA and Student Council. Marlee maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her education and earned multiple GPA awards, Word Millionaire recognition and membership in the ACT 30+ Club.
She participated in Literary Rally three out of four years and qualified for state twice. Outside of school, Marlee took dance classes and volunteered at her church, Christ the Redeemer, as a children’s liturgy assistant mentor.
After graduation, she plans to attend UL Lafayette to major in biology with a concentration in veterinary bioscience, then apply to the LSU Veterinary College to pursue a career as a large-animal veterinarian.
Bryce Augustine Lemoine
Bryce Augustine Lemoine is the son of Shawn and Stacey Lemoine.
He was a four-year member of the Sound of Pride band, where he served as president, and a two-year member of FFA and Student Council. Bryce competed on the bowling team for two years and was named a 2025-2026 SMPS LHSAA All-Academic athlete.
He is also a member of the ACT/WorkKeys Platinum Club.
After graduation, Bryce plans to attend UL Lafayette to pursue a degree in petroleum engineering and follow in his father’s footsteps by working for Schlumberger to provide for his son, Miles Lemoine.
Makenzie
Paige Linn
Makenzie Paige Linn is the daughter of Toney and Errica Linn.
She was a four-year member of Top Cats and the track team, serving as a Top Cats officer her junior year and captain her senior year. Makenzie was also involved in Student Council, 4-H, HOSA, BETA, New Generations, Key Club, Educators Rising, Drama and Interact.
Through HOSA and Key Club, she made baskets for the elderly at Maison Jardin and the Patterson Healthcare Center and helped with a HOSA Christmas activity day at Maison Jardin. She is currently helping with the Miles’ Park with a Purpose project through New Generations. Makenzie is also proud of briefly holding a school record with her 4x800 team during her freshman year.
After graduation, she plans to attend Northwestern State University to major in nursing.
Isabell Dee Ortiz
Isabell Dee Ortiz is the daughter of Mike and Evelyn Ortiz.
She was a four-year member of the cheer and tennis teams and a two-year member of the cross-country team, qualifying for state in both tennis and cross country.
Isabell served as Student Council vice president for four years and was also a member of Hope Squad, HOSA, Educators Rising, Key Club, Insight and Beta.
She earned All-Academic honors in tennis and cross country and was named an All-American Cheerleader in her junior and senior years.
Isabell was also recognized as a WiseCat and PowerCat. She volunteered as a youth group leader at her church and with the Special Olympics.
After graduation, Isabell plans to attend LSU to major in biology and become a physician assistant.
Allie Lynn Simoneaux
Allie Lynn Simoneaux is the daughter of Lawrence and Brittany Simoneaux and Camille and Rusty Tullier.
She maintained a 4.0 or higher GPA while competing in track, cross country and basketball, and she qualified for state in track during her senior year.
Allie was a three-year member of Beta and was also involved in Insight.
Outside of school, she faithfully serves in her church’s choir and youth worship team.
After graduation, Allie plans to attend UL Lafayette to study finance.
Jude Scott Tarver
Jude Scott Tarver is the son of Tiffany and Scott Tarver.
He was named Berwick’s 2025-2026 Student of the Year and served as president of both the Student Council and the Beta Club. Jude was also a member of the tennis team, Hope Squad and New Generations.
He spent numerous hours volunteering at Pharr Chapel UMC. After graduation, Jude plans to attend LSU and pursue a career as a lawyer.
By BILL DECKER
bdecker@daily-review.com
FRANKLIN — The St. Mary Parish Council on Wednesday called for a Nov. 3 election on a set of parish charter revisions developed by a specially appointed commission.
The resolution calling for the election passed unanimously without discussion. But debate, inside the council or outside, seems sure to follow.
The council appointed the Charter Review Commission in 2024, knowing that council members would have to vote up or down on the entire package of revisions without altering them.
In December, after 17 months of deliberations, the commission chaired by Betty Hicks submitted proposed revisions including:
•Updating the council and parish president compensation to reflect current duties, with cost-of-living adjustments every four years.
•Eliminating the three at-large council districts from which representatives are elected through a parishwide vote.
•Limits of 1-1/2 consecutive terms for both the council and the parish president.
•Designating the parish president as chief executive and administrative officer, eliminating the separate chief administrative officer position.
•Clarifying procedures for vacancies, meetings and publications of ordinances.
•Removing obsolete or redundant sections, including outdated ballot and district provisions.
The Parish Council adopted an ordinance acknowledging receipt of the commission’s work in January and passed a resolution to set the election for June 27. But in March, the council approved a resolution submitted by Councilman Patrick Hebert of Berwick that rescinded the earlier resolution.
June 27 is a federal election runoff date in the new closed primaries this year. Hebert argued that if no federal offices require a runoff, the parish would be stuck with an $80,000 bill for the June 27 election. With a guaranteed federal election date like Nov. 3, the parish would have to pay only $15,000.
Rumbling from both the commission and Parish Council side followed, on and off the record.
On the commission side, members have disputed Hebert’s election cost figures. There have also been accusations that the Parish Council violated a state law requiring the amendments to be put before voters on the first available election 60 days after the proposed new charter is published.
A parish government legal ad indicates that the ordinance acknowledging the commission’s work was submitted to Parish President Sam Jones on Jan. 16. The state election calendar has dates of June 27, Nov. 3 and Dec. 12 that could conceivably have met state deadlines.
Parish Council members have expressed doubt about the all-or-nothing nature of the election, saying some voters might like some of the proposed changes but not others. There has been talk about submitting the charter revision proposals as separate items alongside the full commission proposition, giving voters a chance to reject the all-or-nothing proposal and pick the items that they like.
Others have talked about the financial demands of updated president and council salaries.
In any case, the amended charter must win approval from the State Bond Commission before it goes on the ballot.
Hebert said after Wednesday’s meeting that he has doubts about whether the ordinance accepting the Charter Review Commission’s work is still valid. He said he is seeking an answer from legal counsel for the State Bond Commission.
This map of proposed U.S. House districts is advancing in the Legislature.
BATON ROUGE – A 5-1 congressional redistricting map was to go before the Senate floor on Thursday, but not without continued pushback from Black legislators and the public.
The new map maintains District 1, represented by House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, and District 4, held by Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, but splits East Baton Rouge Parish into two congressional districts, causing uncertainty regarding the House seats of two Louisiana Democrats, Rep. Troy Carter and Rep. Cleo Fields.
The House and Senate agreed on Wednesday to set new election dates for the U.S. House seats for Nov. 3 under an open primary system. The new qualifying period for candidates would be from Aug. 5-7.
Gov. Jeff Landry must sign the bill for the dates and process to go into effect. The adjustment would be solely for this election cycle.
Under the new map, Sen. Blake Miguez, R-New Iberia, and Sen. Rick Edmonds, R-Baton Rouge, two of the four Republican candidates in the race for District 5, would live outside the areas they seek to represent.
U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, D-La, who serves District 2, would likely vie with Fields to represent the lone Democrat district, which includes New Orleans, the River Parishes and parts of Baton Rouge.
Carter said he hoped “core principles” of the failed map put forward by Sen. Edward Price, D-Gonzales, in Senate Bill 407, “can still be incorporated” through amendments to SB 121, which advanced to the House floor.
“SB 407 offered a fair and balanced approach by creating two districts in which African American communities would remain relatively whole, thereby preserving the opportunity for African American voters to elect candidates of their choosing,” Carter said. “As this process moves forward, I will continue advocating for fairness, equity and representation that truly reflects the demographics and voices of our great state.”
Fields said in a press release that the state’s demographics – about one-third of Louisiana’s voters are Black – “demand fair representation.”
“The history of this state demands it,” Fields said. “And the people of Louisiana – all of the people – deserve nothing less.”
Last week, Rep. Beau Beaullieu, R-New Iberia, chair of the House and Governmental Affairs Committee, told the Manship School News Service a priority of the new maps would be to “intentionally” protect the districts of Johnson as House speaker and Scalise as majority leader.
“That’s something I could be very clear with,” Beaullieu said.
The new congressional map advanced along party lines in the Senate and Governmental Affairs Committee meeting after 9-1/2 hours of overnight testimony bled into Wednesday morning.
Rep. Delisha Boyd, D-New Orleans, who was present for the committee meeting that ended at almost 4:30 a.m., said she was “extremely disappointed” with the outcome.
“I don’t know how anyone could sit in that room and hear some of the stories from the people who came before me, the passion of those who were coming behind me, and not feel compelled to do the right thing,” she said.
Boyd said previously that she would be unhappy with a 6-0 map and a 5-1 map. She said the 4-2 map, like the one proposed by Price, would be the only one to accurately represent the state’s population.
While presenting his 5-1 map that eventually advanced, Sen. Jay Morris, R-West Monroe, said the mapping decision was based on politics.
“In my view, because of the Republican philosophy and priorities are something I tend to prefer, I think the more Republicans you have in Congress, the more those priorities will be advanced,” Morris said. “And, I think that’s better for the country.”
Boyd called Morris’s testimony “self-righteous” and argued that even a Republican has a duty to fight for everyone regardless of political party.
Conrad Cable, a white Democratic candidate running for Johnson’s seat, insisted the fight is not over.
“This is not about policy,” Cable wrote on his Instagram. “This is a power grab, plain and simple. Hundreds of Louisiana citizens packed committee rooms. They testified. They stayed up all night. They were ignored.”
Rep. Denise Marcelle, D-Baton Rouge and a member of the Black Caucus, said she believes the decision is raising voter awareness.
“People are outraged, and they are going to show up at the polls to show them that they are outraged,” Marcelle said. “In fact, many of them took to the testimony yesterday and just said that, ‘Hey, we’re coming for your seats.’”
The map will have to pass on the Senate floor and then advance to the House and Governmental Affairs Committee before going to the House floor.
(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.)
St. Mary Sheriff’s Office investigators arrested two men this week on child porn and indecent behavior charges.
St. Mary
Sheriff Gary Driskell reported these arrests:
--Henry Rabelo, 42, Patterson, was arrested at 7:13 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant alleging child sexual abuse material (492 counts) and sexual abuse of animals (six counts).
On April 13, detectives executed a search warrant that led to the apprehension of Henry Rabelo. Rabelo was transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking.
As the investigation continued, additional images were found on a device belonging to Rabelo. Detectives obtained a warrant for the additional charges and on Tuesday, Rabelo was charged and continues to be incarcerated at the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center.
“The St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office remains a committed affiliate of the Louisiana [Internet Crimes Against Children] Taskforce, a network of law enforcement agencies dedicated to investigating and prosecuting high-tech crimes against children,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a Facebook post.
“The St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office encourages parents and guardians to remain vigilant regarding their children's online activity. For resources on internet safety or to report suspicious activity, please visit the official www.stmaryso.com or MissingKids.org.”
--Cameron Paul Rodrigue, 20, Bourg, was arrested at 2:05 p.m. Monday on a warrant alleging indecent behavior with juveniles.
On Jan. 3, a patrol deputy was to a residence in Bayou Vista in response to a complaint of a person corresponding in an indecent manner to a juvenile through a device. The deputy took the initial complaint and opened an investigation into the incident.
With the assistance of SMPSO detectives, the suspect was subsequently identified as Rodrigue, and a warrant was obtained for his arrest.
On Monday, a transportation deputy made contact with Rodrigue at another agency and transported him to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking.
Bail has not been set at this time.
--Treveone Hayes, 19, Franklin, was arrested at 2:05 p.m. Monday on a warrant alleging theft. Bail has not been set at this time.
--Lona Marie Lasalle, 64, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:51 p.m. Monday on charges of view outward and inward of window and possession of Schedule II drugs. Lasalle was released on a $3,000 bond.
--Timothy Earl Hillenbran, 48, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:30 a.m. Monday on a warrant alleging theft. Hillenbran was released on a $3,000 bond.
Patterson
Chief Garrett Grogan reported these arrests:
--Khiry D. Howard, 30, Amour Drive, Lafayette, was arrested at 1:09 a.m. Tuesday on charges of possession of marijuana (under 14 grams), driver’s license suspended or revoked, illegal tinted windows, no taillights and no insurance. Howard is incarcerated at the Patterson PD Jail with bond set at $1,236.
--Zacolby Granger, 34, Leona Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 9:09 a.m. Tuesday on charges of driver’s license suspended or revoked and resisting an officer.
Morgan City
Chief Chad M. Adams reported these arrests:
--Jamie Truman Scarbrough Sr., 60, Fourth Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 2:48 p.m. Tuesday on charges of failure to appear for arraignment (6th Ward Morgan City Court) and failure to appear for arraignment (16th Judicial District Court).
--Emily Businelle, 17, Electric Lane, Morgan City, was arrested at 4:15 p.m. Monday as a fugitive from the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office.
--Thomas Thompson, 52, Main Street, Patterson, was arrested at 11 p.m. Monday as a fugitive from the Berwick Police Department and on charges of failure to appear for arraignment and two counts of failure to appear to pay fine (6th Ward Morgan City Court).
--Amandi Crouch, 46, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:20 p.m. Monday on a charge of possession of a legend drug.
--Elaina Ashmore, 26, Arenz Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 5:54 a.m. Tuesday on a charge of failure to appear for trial (6th Ward Morgan City Court).
Assumption
Sheriff Leland Falcon reported this arrest:
--Curtis Paul Gaudet, 53, Vivian Street, Bayou L’Ourse, was arrested Tuesday on charges of possession of methamphetamine, obstruction of justice, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer, off-road vehicles on roadway and resisting an officer, and as a fugitive from St. Mary Parish on a charge of driving under suspension.
The charges arise from a traffic incident in the Bayou L’Ourse area on Tuesday.
A uniformed patrol deputy observed an off-road vehicle on La. 663 near Rayne Court. The driver had no safety helmet.
The deputy attempted to stop the off-road vehicle, which was being driven by Gaudet. The suspect driver attempted to evade the deputy and while doing so, attempted to discard items from his pockets.
The deputy was able to arrest Gaudet, and the deputy was able to recover the items Gaudet attempted to discard. Deputies recovered a quantity of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
Gaudet was booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center pending a bond hearing.
Franklin
Chief Cedric Handy reported these arrests:
--Eugene Green, 46, Canal Drive, Franklin, was arrested at 9:16 a.m. Monday on warrants for 3rd Ward City Court alleging failure to appear on the charges of speeding and no seat belt. Green was booked, processed and released on a $438 bond.
--Alexia Boudreaux, 33, Sycamore Street, Franklin, was arrested at 12:23 p.m. Monday on acharge of hit and run. Boudreaux was booked, processed and released on a $1,000 bond.
--Jakalup Jones, 19, Willow Street, Franklin, was arrested at 3:38 p.m. Monday on a charge of computer-aided solicitation of a minor. Jones was booked, processed and held with no bond set at the time of press release.
--Kevin James, 40, Iberia Street, Franklin, was arrested at 3:52 p.m. Monday on a warrant dated May 1 alleging remaining where forbidden. James was booked, processed and held on a $500 bond.
--Ronald Lumpkin, 48, Curtis Drive, Franklin, was arrested at 9:37 a.m. Tuesday on a warrant for the Morgan City Police Department alleging theft. Lumpkin was additionally arrested on two counts of resisting an officer. Lumpkin was booked, processed and held on a $2,500 bond.
--Jakalup Jones, 19, Willow Street, Franklin, while incarcerated at the Franklin Police Department, was arrested at 11:33 a.m. Tuesday on a warrant alleging probation violation. Jones was booked, processed and held with no bond set at the time of press release.
--Kendrick Madison, 49, Donna Drive, Franklin, was arrested at 2:44 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant for 16th Judicial District Court alleging failure to appear on a charge of non-support. Madison was booked, processed and held on a $1,160 bond.
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.
Monday, May 11
8:02 a.m. 3100 block of Solar; Complaint.
8:20 a.m. U.S. 90; Complaint.
9 a.m. Victor II/Martin Luther King boulevards; Stalled vehicle.
9:54 a.m. 600 block of Freret Street; Medical.
10:06 a.m. 1100 block of Seventh Street; Complaint.
10:49 a.m. U.S. 90; Traffic incident.
10:52 a.m. 1100 block of Fourth Street; Animal complaint.
10:53 a.m. La. 182; Vehicle accident.
11:34 a.m. Walnut Drive; Complaint.
11:37 a.m. Victor II/Martin Luther King boulevards; Hit and run.
12:09 p.m. 6300 block of La. 182; 911 hang up.
12:46 p.m. La. 182; Vehicle accident.
1:28 p.m. 1000 block of Fourth Street; Fire.
1:52 p.m. 900 block of Willard Street; Telephone harassment.
2:31 p.m. Halsey Street/La. 182; Animal complaint.
2:53 p.m. 600 block of Bush Street; Complaint.
3:59 p.m. 6700 block of La. 182; Removal of subject.
5:22 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Removal of subject.
5:47 p.m. 1000 block of Pine Street; Medical.
6:34 p.m. Maple Street; Reckless operation.
7:13 p.m. 400 block of Onstead Street; Disturbance.
7:25 p.m. 700 block of Terrebonne Street; Medical.
8 p.m. U.S. 90 West/Martin Luther King Boulevard down ramp; Vehicle accident.
8:27 p.m. U.S. 90 West near Brashear Avenue on ramp; Vehicle accident.
9:11 p.m. 7000 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
Tuesday, May 12
2:52 a.m. 900 block of David Drive; Alarm.
3:11 a.m. David Drive; Suspicious subject.
5:30 a.m. 600 block of Arenz Street; Complaint.
6:41 a.m. 300 block of Cardinal Street; Medical.
7:50 a.m. 2400 block of Tiger Drive; Complaint.
9:02 a.m. 2900 block of Railroad Avenue; Complaint.
9:27 a.m. 2400 block of Tiger Drive; Complaint.
9:47 a.m. 1700 block of Dale Street; Telephone harassment.
10:20 a.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Complaint.
10:24 a.m. 100 block of Wren Street; Medical.
10:25 a.m. Elm/Sixth streets; Animal complaint.
10:43 a.m. 800 block of Victor II Boulevard; Alarm.
10:50 a.m. 1100 block of Oak Harbor; Complaint.
11:10 a.m. 7000 block of Railroad Avenue; Complaint.
11:18 a.m. Cedar/Marshall streets; Animal complaint.
11:26 a.m. 1400 block of North First Street; Complaint.
11:47 a.m. 300 block of Glenwood Street; Complaint.
1:15 p.m. 600 block of Arenz Street; Medical.
1:34 p.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Vehicle accident.
2:17 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
2:35 p.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Removal of subject.
2:51 p.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Stand by.
2:54 p.m. 300 block of Onstead Street; Disturbance.
3:18 p.m. 300 block of Glenwood Street; Welfare check.
4:05 p.m. 700 block of Maine Street; Medical.
4:32 p.m. U.S. 90; Stalled vehicle.
5:59 a.m. 600 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard Blvd; Harassment.
6:23 p.m. 3000 block of Kimberly Drive; Assistance.
7:14 p.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Medical.
7:40 p.m. 1000 block of Second Street; Medical.
7:53 p.m. Roderick Street/La. 182; Reckless operation.
9:30 p.m. 500 block of Roderick Street; Fight.
10:34 p.m. 1000 block of Federal Avenue; Suspicious subject.
10:42 p.m. 400 block of Onstead Street; Disturbance.
Wednesday, May 13
3:16 a.m. 100 block of Marquis Manor; Medical.
3:24 a.m. 600 block of Brashear Avenue; Suspicious subject.
Click on the link below to download a .pdf version of the report.
Despite his conflict with President Donald Trump, Pope Leo XIV is quite popular worldwide. There is talk of an American visit by the pontiff soon.
He should come to Louisiana. More than half the population in South Louisiana is Catholic. There are over 500,000 Catholics in the greater New Orleans area alone. If the pope wanted to visit a state with a Catholic pulse, the Bayou State should be a “must stop.”
Catholic newspaper OSV Newsweekly puts New Orleans at the top of their list to visit a city that reflects Catholic “culture, history, physical landscape and spirituality.” The St. Louis Cathedral is the oldest continuing functioning Cathedral in the country, built in 1789. The first Catholic hospital was founded in the Crescent City, Hotel Dieu, operated by the Daughters of Charity. It would be hard to find a region more quintessentially Catholic since its founding than a large part of Louisiana.
Now I’m about as Catholic as one can get without actually making the conversion. I was married in the church, and my three daughters were baptized by Bishop Charles Greco, the late and beloved patriarch of the central and north Louisiana parishes.
When my children were quite young, our family spent a number of winter weekends with Bishop Greco at a family hunting and fishing camp on Davis Island, in the middle of the Mississippi River, some 30 miles below Vicksburg.
On many a cold and rainy morning, a handful of us at the camp would rise before dawn for the bishop to conduct a Sunday or holiday Mass. And even though I was not Catholic, he treated me as one of his own.
The bishop would patiently sit for hours and answer my barrage of questions about the history and the relevancy of the Catholic Church.
During the years I practiced law in Ferriday, Father August Thompson became a mentor and good friend.
He urged me to actively become involved in a number of social issues within the community, and his influences eventually led me to run for public office and to being elected a Louisiana state senator.
Father Chris Nalty, now pastoring in New Orleans, toured our family through the Vatican, even taking us down under St. Peter’s to the historic catacombs, and opened my eyes to the vast history of the Church and to the influence of Catholicism worldwide. In my hometown of Baton Rouge, Fathers Miles Walsh and Cleo Milano are my sparring partners when I raise questions about the future direction of the Church. Father Cleo pastors at Lady of Mercy, which is close to my home. The Church has a marvelous adoration chapel that is open 24 hours a day. It’s my resting place for meditation and solitude several times a week.
So why haven’t I become Catholic? I was named after the disciple James, the brother of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament book of James, the disciple conveys a Christian doctrine of simplicity. He offers two premises to be a convert. Believe in a higher being and do good works. That’s it. No involved ritual. No pomp and circumstance. Simply believing and helping others.
This new pope seems to be in the direction of more simplification, and appears willing to face head on a number of controversies that have divided the Church. Catholics worldwide seem to want more openness, more discussion and better communication. As Billy Joel sang about the Church: “Virginia, they didn’t give you quite enough information.”
Pope Francis will have to confront the issue of a dwindling number of priests to minister to a flock of over one billion Catholics. What about priests being allowed to marry? Women joining the priesthood, an increasing responsibility for nuns including the offering of the Sacraments, facing up to the sex abuse scandals, allowing for more evangelical services that are not as strong on ritual, all are issues that have a growing constituency that will require attention and reasonable understanding by the new pope.
Yet, in spite of all the pressures to change and adapt, the Catholic Church should have a moral consistency, and not just modify doctrine and core beliefs based on current popular whim. Shouldn’t the Ten Commandments and the truths of the Sermon on the Mount be perpetual?
Pope Leo, although popular worldwide, has his work cut out to unify a church enmeshed in controversy. Thousands of Louisiana Catholics, who by and large desire a church grounded in moral stability, seem to be giving this pope good will and the benefit of any doubt. As for this aging but quite interested possible convert, I’ll be watching on the sidelines.
Peace and Justice
Jim Brown
Jim Brown’s syndicated column appears each week in numerous newspapers throughout the nation and on websites worldwide. You can read all his past columns and see continuing updates at http://www.jimbrownla.com.
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
