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Funeral services will be held Friday, January 23, 2026 at a 1:00 p.m. Liturgy of the Word in Evangeline Memorial Gardens Chapel in Carencro for Carla Marie Prejean, age 73, who passed away Monday, January 19, 2026 at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center in Lafayette.
Interment will be in Evangeline Memorial Gardens in Carencro. Deacon David Menard will officiate at the services.
Mrs. Prejean, born in Lafayette, resided in Morgan City for over 50 years before returning to Lafayette. She was the owner and operator of Standard Drugs, where she served as a pharmacist for fifty years. Her dedication to her profession and to the people she served made her a trusted and respected presence in countless lives. Through her work, she exemplified compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.
Deeply involved in the Morgan City community, Mrs. Prejean served as President of the Rotary Club of Morgan City and was a former member of the Krewe of Galatea Women’s Mardi Gras float. She was well known for her tireless devotion to civic involvement and her passion for giving back to the community she loved.
Above all, Carla will be remembered as a loving partner, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her warmth, generosity, and strength touched everyone who knew her, and her influence will continue to be felt for generations.
Survivors include her husband, Bill Leleaux; one son, Justin Prejean (Amber); three grandchildren, Elliott Dupre-Prejean, Autumn Grace Hicks, and Amber Grace Gonzales (Juan); two brothers, Lowell Roger (Lori), and Elliott Roger (Milly); and one sister, Marietta Roger (Jeff).
She was preceded in death by her parents, Pierre and Belle Roger.
The family requests that visiting hours be observed from 10:00 a.m. Friday until service time on Friday.
View the obituary and guestbook online at www.melanconfuneralhome.net.

Click here to download the Feb. 11 mineral lease announcement.

PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Public Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received either electronically at http://www.centralbidding.com or at the office of City of Morgan City, located at 512 First Street, Morgan City, Louisiana 70380, until Two O’clock p.m. (2:00) central standard time on the 11th day of February 2026 for the following:
Morgan City Sewer Valve Replacement
and shall at that time and place be publicly open and read aloud in City Hall. Bids received after the above specified time for opening shall not be considered and shall be returned unopened to the sender.
The work shall consist of, but is not limited to, replacing the existing underground pipe and valve assembly at the City owned Wastewater Treatment Plant with an above ground pipe and valve assembly.
Bid related documents may be downloaded at http://www.centralbidding.com. Electronic Bids may be submitted by visiting http://www.centralbidding.com. For any technical questions regarding the Electronic Bidding Process, contact Central Bidding support at info@centralbidding.com or (225) 810-4814. If contractor elects to use electronic bid submission, the contractor is re- sponsible for investigating and complying with electronic bid submission with and through the electronic bidding service. It is recommended that bidders navigate the service in advance to upcoming bid deadlines.
Bidders submitting bids electronically are required to provide the same documents as bidders submitting through the mail or by hand delivery. Regardless of the bid results, the bidder will have 48 hours from the opening of the bids to provide the City of Morgan City with the original documents. Only a bid bond shall be submitted as the bid security. Electronic copies of the bid bond shall be in- cluded with the electronic bid. If a vendor fails to provide the original hard copies of these documents within 48 hours of the bid opening, their bid shall be considered non-responsive.
Bids must be signed in accordance with LRS Title 38:2212(B)5. A Corporate Resolution or Certificate of Authority authorizing the person signing the bid is required to be submitted with bid. Failure to submit a Corporate Resolution or Certificate of Authority with the bid shall be cause for rejection of bid.
The project is to be exempt from sales and use taxes im- posed by any taxing authority. The successful contractor / subcontractors will be required to submit the ap- propriate tax exemption form R-85012-T (Public Projects Contractor / Subcontractor: Sales Tax Certification and Exemption Application – Louisiana Re- vised Statute 47:305.7(A)(1)(b)) to the Louisiana Department of Revenue for each contract / subcontract associated with the work.
Copies of the Contract Documents including drawings and specifications are available at the office of C.H. Fenstermaker and Associates, L.L.C. located at 135 Regency Square, Lafayette, LA 70508, phone: (337) 237-2200, upon payment of one hundred dollars ($100) per set, payable to City of Morgan City. Section D – “Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Standard Specifications for Roads and Bridges, 2026 Edition” is available upon request. NOTE: NO CASH WILL BE AC- CEPTED - ONLY CHECKS OR MONEY ORD-ERS MADE PAYABLE TO CITY OF MORGAN CITY SHALL BE ACCEPTED. De- posits on the first set of documents furnished bona fide to prime bidders will be fully refunded upon re- turn of documents no later than ten (10) days after receipt of bids. On other sets of documents furnished to bidders the deposit less actual cost of reproduction will be refunded upon return of the documents no later than ten (10) days after receipt of bids. An electronic copy of the bid documents may be obtained by contacting Ms. Samara Guidry at samara@fenstermaker.com or by telephone at (337) 237-2200. There will be no deposit required to receive an electronic copy of bid documents. Plans and specifications shall be available until twenty-four hours before the bid opening date.
There will be a Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference at City of Morgan City Hall on Wednesday February 4, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Physical street address of City Hall is 512 First Street, Morgan City, Louisiana 70380.
Each bid shall be accompanied by a bid bond payable to the City of Morgan City, the amount of which shall be five percent (5%) of the base bid plus additive alternates. Bid bond shall be written by a surety or insurance company currently on the U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Management Service list of ap- proved bonding companies which is published annually in the Federal Register, or by a Louisiana domiciled insurance company with at least an A- Rating in the latest printing of the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide to write in- dividual bonds up to ten percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown in the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide, or by an insurance company in good standing licensed to write bid bonds which is either domiciled in Louisiana or owned by Louisiana residents. The bid bond shall be is- sued by a company licensed to do business in Louisiana and who is under contract with the surety company or bond issuer as a licensed agent in this state and re- siding in this state. The bid bond shall be given as a guarantee that the bidder shall execute the contract, should it be awarded to him, in conformity with the Contract Documents within thirty (30) days.
No bidder may withdraw his bid for at least forty-five (45) days after the time scheduled for the opening of bids unless the withdrawal is in accordance with LA R.S. 38§2214.C. Each bid shall be submitted only on the bid form provided with the specifications. The successful contractor will be required to execute performance and labor and material payment bonds in the full amount of the contract as more fully defined in the bid documents.
Bids will be evaluated by the City of Morgan City based on LA Bid Law statutes, in- cluding the lowest responsible bid submitted which is also in compliance with the specifications. The City of Morgan City re- serves the right to reject any and all bids for just cause as allowed by LA R.S. 38§2214.
Contractors or contracting firms doing work which is classed as “Hazardous Materials” or any subclassifications, shall be properly licensed when the work to be performed is $1.00 or more. Contractors or contracting firms submitting bids for work besides Hazardous Materials, shall be properly licensed for any work in the amount of $50,000.00 or more.
All such bidders shall certify that they are licensed contractors under Chapter 24 of Title 37 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950. Contractors for this project shall be licensed for the classification of “MUNICIPAL and PUBLIC WORKS CONSTRUCTION”. Bids in the amounts specified above which have not bid in accordance with the re- quirements, shall be rejected and shall not be read. Additional information relative to licensing may be obtained from the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
The City of Morgan City strongly encourages the participation of DBEs (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) in all contracts or procurements let by the City of Morgan City for goods and services and labor and material. To that end, all contractors and suppliers are encouraged to utilize DBEs in the purchase or sub-contracting of materials, supplies, services and labor and material in which disadvantaged businesses are available. As- sistance in identifying said businesses may be ob- tained by visiting http://www.laucp.org/ucp/.
s/Charlie Solar, Jr.
City of Morgan City
Adv. Jan. 16, 21 and 28, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
Bravo Securities With Union Bank As Secured Party d/b/a Bravo Securities
Vs. No. 137987 Div “A”
The Estate of George Rebardi, Jr., Et Al
TAKE NOTICE, that by a virtue of a Partition by Licitation 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:
UNDIVIDED INTEREST OF: 100% IN: LOT 10 LAKESIDE SUBD SQ 22 ACQ 297 319437 IMPROVEMENTS, being further described as:
That certain lot or parcel of land together with all buildings and im- provements thereon situated and all rights, ways, privileges, servitudes and appurtenances thereon belonging or in anywise appertaining, lying and being situated in Morgan City, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, being more particularly known, designated and des-cribed as LOT NO. TEN (10) IN SQUARE TWENTY-TWO (22) OF UNIT NO. TWO (2) OF LAKESIDE SUBDIVISION as shown on the plat of survey made by J. J. Krebs & Sons, Civil Engineers and Surveyors, a copy of which plat was recorded on December 16, 1964 in St. Mary Parish COB 13-M, Entry No. 123,718. Ac- cording to said map the said lot fronts Forty-four and 61/100 (44.61’) feet on the North side of Jennie Drive, a depth on the West boundary of Eighty-two and 38/100 (82.38’) feet, a depth on the East Boundary of One Hundred Twenty and 29/100 (120.29’) feet and a width across the rear, or North line, of One Hundred Thirty-five (135’) feet.
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 lobby area of the Court House in the Parish of St. Mary, Town of Franklin, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 28th day of January A.D., 2026, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office,
Parish of St. Mary, LA.
Tuesday, the 7th day of October A.D., 2025
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. Dec. 26, 2025 and Jan. 21, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL
PROCEEDINGS
GRAVITY SUB-DRAINAGE DISTRICT NO. 1 OF GRAVITY DRAINAGE DISTRICT NO. 2
REGULAR MEETING
December 9, 2025
6:00 p.m.
BAYOU VISTA, LOUISIANA
The Gravity Sub-Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2 (“GSDD1ofGDD2”) met on this date at 6:00 p.m. with Chairman Chad Ross presiding with Wayne Can-trell, Raymond Beadle, and Paige Voisin
Absent: DJ Mayon
Also present: Alvin Lodrigue, District Supervisor, Barry Dufrene, District Accountant and Jules Darden, Miller Engineering.
Mr. Cantrell moved, and Mr. Beadle seconded that the reading of the minutes of the Regular Meeting, November 13, 2025, be dispensed with and that the same be approved. The motion carried.
Mr. Ross called for the Finances and Payables Re- port. Mr. Dufrene was not present therefore Mr. Ross presented the reports on the payables due for December 2025. Mr. Beadle moved, and Mr. Cantrell seconded a motion, which was carried, to make the necessary transfers, to accept the payables report and pay all invoices.
With there being no other business, a motion to ad- journ was made by Mr. Beadle and seconded by Mr. Cantrell. The motion passed.
Attest:
/s/ Chad Ross,
Chairman
Gravity Sub- Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2
/s/ Rhonda Patterson,
Secretary
Gravity Sub- Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2
Adv. Jan. 21, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
SECTION 001000 - LEGAL NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Sealed bids will be received by the St. Mary Parish Government until 10:00 a.m. (CST) on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at its office located at 500 Main St. Courthouse Building, 5th Floor, Franklin, Louisiana 70538, and shall at that time and place publicly open the bids and read them aloud for the:
ST. MARY PARISH GOVERNMENT
WIND RETROFIT & RE-ROOFING
911 CALL CENTER
ARCHITECT’S PROJECT NO. 15-183
Owner’s Information:
St. Mary Parish Government
500 Main St.
Franklin, LA 70538
Phone: (337) 828-4092
Architect’s Information:
Duplantis De- sign Group, PC
314 East Bayou Road
Thibodaux, LA 70301
Phone: (985) 447-0090
All bids shall be submitted in a sealed envelope bearing legibly on the exterior, the following:
1. Job name and owner
2. Architect
3. Date
4. Contractor’s name, address, and license number
Bids can be submitted electronically at www.centralbidding.com.
Bid prices shall specifically EX- CLUDE any and all taxes whatsoever. Act 1029 of 1991 exempts’ local governments from state and local tax effective September 1, 1991. Bid prices shall include any shipping charges, if applicable. The ap- propriate tax exempt forms shall be provided to the successful bidder upon contract execution.
Each bid shall be accompanied by a bid security of NOT less than five (5%) percent of the total bid amount. Said amount shall be in the form of a Bid Bond, Certified Check, or Cashier’s check drawn on a bank insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation payable to the Terrebonne Port Commission. Failure to do so shall result in the bid/bids being de- clared nonresponsive and shall be cause for rejection. All bid bonds shall be accompanied by a duly authorized Power of Attorney. Any surety bond written for a public works project shall be written by a surety of insurance company currently on the U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Management Service list of approved bonding companies which is published annually in the Federal Register, or by a Louisiana domiciled insurance company with at least an A- rating in the latest printing of the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide to write individual Bonds up to 10% of policy holders’ surplus as shown in the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide, or by an insurance company that is either domiciled in Louisiana or owned by Louisiana residents and is licensed to write surety bonds.
The successful bidder shall be required to furnish the owner with a performance and payment bond for 100% of the contract amount prior to the issuance of a contract to perform the work. No bid maybe withdrawn for a period of 30 days after receipt of bids. The time of completion of this project is prime importance. All of the work required shall be completed within ninety (90) calendar days from the Notice to Proceed. Should the Contractor neglect, refuse to complete the work or obtain approval from the State Fire Marshal’s Office for occupancy on the date above, the Owner shall have the right to deduct from and retain out of such moneys which may be due or which may be- come due and payable to the Contractor, the sum of $500.00 per calendar day for each and every day that such completion of the work is delayed beyond the prescribed dates, as liquidated damages and not as a penalty. If the amount due and to become due from the Owner to the Contractor is insufficient to pay in full any such liquidated damages, the Contractor shall pay the Owner the amount necessary to the effect such payment in full. Provided, however, that the Owner shall promptly notify the Contractor in writing of the manner the amount retained, deducted, or claim-ed as liquidated damages was computed.
A MANDATORY Pre-bid Conference will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at the project site located at 1200 David Dr., Morgan City, Louisiana 70380. The architect shall pass around a sign-in sheet prior to beginning the formal presentation. The sign-in sheet shall have an area to fill in the name, company represented, email address, and indication of prime bidder for contractor bidding. The sign-in sheet shall be collected by the architect prior to the commencement of the presentation and shall announce that the contractors shall be ex- pected to stay for the entire meeting. Contractors shall not be allowed to sign the sign-in sheet after it is collected by the architect. Contractors who did not attend the entire pre-bid conference shall not be allowed to bid on bid day.
Bids must be submitted on the Louisiana Uniform Public Works Bid Form furnished with the Bidding Documents. All drawings, specifications and other Bidding Documents for the project are available on the internet at www.centralbidding.com. In accordance with L.R.S. 38:2212(D), Prime Bidders shall ob- tain an original set of electronic bidding documents from this web site in order to ensure proper receipt of addenda.
Complete Bid Documents are also available on compact disc at no charge for the bidding General Contractor at the office of the Architect. All bidding General Contractors must register as a plan holder at the Architect’s office in order to receive this free CD. The bidding General Contractors will receive the addenda from the Architect with the normal distribution process.
The Attention of Bidders is called particularly to the requirements for condition of em- ployment to be observed and minimum wage rates to be paid under the Contract, Section 3, Segregated Facilities, Section 109, Executive Order 11246, and all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and State of Louisiana and bonding and insurance requirements.
Bids shall be accepted from Contractors who are licensed under LA. R.S. 37:2150-2163 for the classification of BUILDING CONSTRUCTION.
A political subdivision upon receipt of bids for the undertaking of any public works contract shall act within forty-five (45) calendar days of such receipt to award said contract to the lowest responsible bidder or reject all bids in accordance with Louisiana Public Bid Law.
Adv. Jan. 7, 14, 21 and 28, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERWICK, STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY
January 13, 2026
The Mayor Pro-Tem and Council of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana, met in regular session at their regular meeting place, the Town Hall, Berwick, Louisiana, Tuesday January 13, 2026, at six (6:00) o’clock p.m.
There were present: Council members Colleen Askew, Kevin He- bert, Lud Henry, Raymond Price, and James Richard.
Absent: Honorable Mayor Duval Arthur Jr.
Brother Keith Tayloe from Bethel Pentecostal Fellowship led the prayer.
Councilmen Kevin Hebert led the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Mayor Pro-Tem and Council of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana were duly convened as the governing authority of said Town, led by Lud Henry, who then stated that the Mayor Pro-Tem and Council were ready for the transaction of business.
The minutes of the previous meeting were approved without reading upon motion James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew.
The Treasurer’s report, having been reviewed, was approved without reading upon mo- tion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew.
The Beacon was shining on a Teachers and a Student for January 2026. The Beacon Shines on recipients were:
Berwick High School Teacher of the year: Brooke Scott
Berwick High School Student of the year: Jude Tarver
Guests for the January 2026 meeting were the family and friend of the Beacon recipients.
Police Chief Jonathan Henry presented the police report for December, 2025. Chief Henry presented the Hilton Rebardi Jr. Reserve Officer of the Year Award to Councilman Raymond Price in recognition of his outstanding commitment to the community. Chief Henry also presented the Berwick Police De- partment Officer of the Year Award for 2025 to Officer Ryan Veillion. Although Officer Veillion has only been with the Berwick Police De- partment for the past year and a half, he recently celebrated a de- cade of service in law enforcement and was awarded a commemorative pin for this achievement. After no further comments, the mayor pro-tem moved on to the next item on the agenda, Fire report.
Fire Chief Jody Acosta presented the fire report for December, 2025. Chief Acosta stated that the fire department re- sponded to 8 emergency calls. There were 3 medical assists, 4 motor vehicle accidents, and 1 grass fire. Chief Acosta also stated that the department currently has 44 members which includes 1 paramedic, 5 EMTs, and 20 EMRs. After no further comments, the mayor pro-tem moved on to the next item on the agenda, the Public Works report.
Public Works Director Rafael Lopez presented the public works report for December, 2025. Mr. Lopez stated town crews were busy this month with their regular maintenance throughout town in addition to assisting with the sewer rehabilitation project that is currently going on. After no further comments, the mayor pro-tem moved on to the next item on the agenda, consulting engineer’s report.
Town Engineer Mr. Reid Miller stated that the water meter replacement project is still ongoing. They have 231 meters remaining to be installed. The mayor pro-tem moved on to the next item on the agenda, committee reports.
The Planning and Zoning Committee reported that things have been busy with several new construction projects going on and continuing to address blighted property throughout town.
The Recreation, Public Safety, and Economic Development Committees had nothing to report.
The Historical Committee reported that they re- cently received a grant for $10,000. They also reported that they are in the process of submitting their annual cultural district report. After no further committee reports, the mayor pro-tem moved on to the next item on the agenda, New Business.
Item No. 1 under New Business – Wreaths Across America – Berwick Heritage Museum & the VFW – Shannon McFate. Mrs. McFate is re- questing approval to be able to participate in the Wreaths Across America project which honors veterans by placing remembrance wreaths on their graves annually. Berwick has about 300 veterans to honor. The cost for each wreath is $17.00 which they will seek donations for. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Raymond Price, the request was approved unanimously.
Item No. 2 under New Business – Approve Payment 111266 No. 2 – to Insituform Technologies, LLC for $282,690.00 – Sewer Rehab Project - 4th, 6th, Texas, Francis & Utah Streets - $400,000 Grant. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew, the payment was ap- proved by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 3 under New Business – Approve Payment 111266 No. 2B – to Insituform Technologies, LLC for $37,270.80 - Sewer Rehab Project - 4th, 6th, Texas, Francis & Utah Streets - $200,000 Grant. Upon mo- tion by Raymond Price and seconded by Colleen Askew, the payment was approved by a un- animous roll call vote.
Item No. 4 under New Business – Krewe of Dionysus – Parade Permit – February 14, 2026. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Kevin Hebert, the permit was ap- proved unanimously.
Mr. Joe Nelson asked that the mayor and council consider having a new drainage study to address some concerns he has regarding high water levels in Country Club Estates during events where there are several inches of rainfall within a short period of time.
There being no further business to come before the Council, upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Raymond Price, the motion to adjourn was approved unanimously.
———————
Lud Henry –
Mayor Pro-Tem
———————
Jamie Keith –
Town Clerk
Adv. Jan. 21, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Public Notice
(Notice of Intention to Introduce Bill - 2026 Regular Legislative Session)
Public notice is hereby given, as provided by R.S. 47:1907.1 that there will be introduced at the forthcoming session of the Legislature of Louisiana, to be convened on March 9, 2026, a bill relative to authorizing assessors in this state to increase their annual salary compensation in an amount not to exceed five percent annually through Fiscal Year 2028-2029; and to provide for related matters.
Adv. Jan. 21 and 28, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following entitled ordinances were introduced at a regular meeting of the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana (the “Parish Council”), on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, and laid over for publication of notice:
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits granting a Specific Use. (Bryan Rock)
An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2410 re- garding public comment during Parish Council Meetings.
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at five-forty-five (5:45) o’clock p.m. at the Parish Council Room of the Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana, at which time there will be a public hearing on the adoption of the aforesaid ordinances.
/s/ GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
CHAIRPERSON OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
/s/ Lisa C. Morgan
CLERK OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. Jan. 21, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Consolidated Gravity Drainage District No. 2A
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, January 13th, 2025
Call to order 6:05 P. M.
Pledge of Allegiance by Mr. Patureau
Roll Call: Paul Rappmundt, Matthew Patureau, Nelda Dural(absent), Don Hicks, and Shannon Boykin
Public Comment: None.
Guest: None
Mr. Boykin made a motion to accept the minutes from the December regular meeting, second by Mr. Hicks. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Mrs. Bourg presented the Board with treasurer’s reports for the Amelia and Morgan City/Siracu- saville areas. Mr. Hicks made a motion to approve the treasurer’s re- ports, second by Mr. Boykin. All were in favor, motion carried.
New Business: Mr. Rappmundt handed out binders to all board members with the current Standard Operating Procedures. He asked that the board re- view them and make notes if any updates or changes should be made. The board then discussed reinstating the SCADA system that was once in place at the pump stations. They decided to discuss the implementation of the SCADA system with the Levee District before making any decisions. A motion to table this item was made by Mr. Hicks, seconded by Mr. Boykin. All were in favor. Motion carried. There was discussion about changing the pumpers’ pay to once a month and paying them as temporary workers. Mr. Rappmundt said he would research this and get back to the board. A motion to table this item was made by Mr. Hicks, second by Mr. Boykin. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Mr. Moffett gave his station reports.
Board Member Reports:
Mr. Rappmundt and Mr. Patureau addressed the board regarding alignment at Station 4. Mr. Pa- tureau said that Kreel and Associated Pump were going to check on this. The Levee District is still in charge of this project.
Old Business:
A motion to adopt a new purchase order system was made by Mr. Boykin seconded by Mr. Hicks. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Motion to Ad- journ was made by Mr. Boykin, second by Mr. Hicks. All were in favor. Motion carried. Meeting ended at 7:01 pm.
Adv. Jan. 21, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE
PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
DECEMBER 17, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
6:00 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Council met on this date in Regular Session with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present: Rev. Craig Mat-hews, J Ina, Rodney Olander, Leslie “Les” Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent was David W. Hill.
The Invocation was pronounced by Rev. Mathews and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Adams.
Mr. Olander moved that the reading of the First Regular Meeting, December 10, 2025 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
Mrs. Hidalgo publicly apologized for her outburst at the last meeting and wished everyone Happy Holidays.
Parish President, Sam Jones wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, submitted his re- port for a one (1) week period, ending December 17, 2025. He also submitted a report from Tim Matte, St. Mary Parish Levee District Director, on the status of TE-168, Pump Station No. 4, Pump Station No. 9, Pump Station No. 8, Pump Station No. 6, GIS, and Construction Update Report on Pump Station No. 4 Equipment In- stallation & Building Refurbishment.
In response to Mr. Hebert’s inquiry, Mr. Governale stated that juveniles are occasionally sent to a detention center under extreme circumstances and that the judges decide where to house them.
Rev. Mathews reported on an update regarding the Verdun Lane road project. He stated that this was a CDBG funded project that relies on the timely transfer of information and correspondence from the Parish to coordinate action steps required by state government to comply with project regulations and timelines. Multiple drafts of specific forms were submitted for the environmental review process and because the project being deemed “new construction,” due to the addition of shoulders to the road that do not currently exist, there was a slight delay in final submission. The form was due on July 1, 2025 but was not submitted until July 3, 2025. Be- cause of the missed deadline, the CDBG office ap- parently terminated the project. He stated that the project needs to be reactivated and that he has spoken with Senator Robert Allain’s office to request his intervention with CDBG authorities immediately, in attempt to help restore funding.
Almetra Franklin, Verdun Lane resident, stated that this project is still ongoing. She stated that this is a much needed project and the state should have notified that the project was being withdrawn.
President Jones stated that this is still a viable project but will take time to continue.
Mr. Governale stated that the Parish’s consultant was copied on all correspondence and that he has been in touch with the State. He stated that it took a long time for the State to obtain the environmental review which re- sulted in penalties. He also stated that he and President Jones have been in contact with Senator Allain’s office to get funding reinstated and proceed with the project.
Mrs. Hidalgo moved up Item 13A, “ Resolution of respect in memory of Mr. Althamus Edwin Pellerin, Jr.”
Mr. Adams mov-ed that the following Resolution be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Mathews, Ina, Olander, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Du- hon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Hill
RESOLUTION OF RESPECT
WHEREAS, the Lord Almighty in His Infinite mercy and goodness has seen fit to remove from our midst, Mr. Althamus Edwin Pellerin, Jr., Father of the Assistant Clerk of the Council, Mrs. Roshonda Bourgeois; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Pellerin was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great- grandfather and was cherished by his entire family; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Pellerin can fondly be remembered working on his family farm, working at Broiler Burger, was a Printer at The Banner Tribune, was Produce Manger at A & P Grocery Store, Ledet’s Supermarket, Piggly Wiggly, Shop Rite Food Store (was also Store Manager), Winn Dixie, and Super 1 Foods; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Pellerin was a man of many talents, he was a generous man who believed in faith, family, and community, worked side by side with his father and grandfather to build Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Verdunville and continued to help maintain the church and it’s grounds as long as his health allowed; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Pellerin loved watching western movies and could always be found whistling and singing church hymns and classic country songs; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Pellerin was gifted with an amazing green thumb and was widely known for growing and sharing his okra, fruit trees, plants, and flowers; and
WHEREAS, the members of the St. Mary Parish Council wish to acknowledge publicly their sorrow and sympathy to the family of Mr. Pellerin; and
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council hopes that his family will find comfort in the thought that their grief and sorrow are shared by their friends.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the St. Mary Parish Council through the unanimous adoption of this resolution that they solemnly deliberate with sincere condolences, sympathy, and understanding during this time of grief.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 17th day of December 2025.
APPROVED:
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
S/G LISA C. MORGAN
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Mr. Hebert mov-ed to table Item 13B, “Resolution of respect in memory of Lt. Colonel Dale H. Hayes, Sr.,” to after the first of the year. Mr. Olander seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Adams mov-ed that the Public Hearing Report, December 10, 2025 at 5:45 p.m. and the Public Hearing Report, December 10, 2025 at 5:50 p.m. be approved. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Rev. Mathews acknowledged Communities United, Inc., an organization that recently met with residents at West St. Mary Civic Center to offer support and access to disaster grants for Hurricane Francine.
President Jones stated that he has spoken to representatives to invite them to reach out to other areas within the parish.
Mr. Rulf introduced the following Ordinance:
ORDINANCE
NO.
An Ordinance of the St. Mary Parish Council condemning the im- provements consisting of the Plantation Inn Hotel, situated at 815 Highway 90, Parcel ID No. 2984281045.00-2984281004.00, as a result of same being in a dilapidated and dangerous condition which endangers the public welfare and ordering the demolition and removal of said improvements by the owner thereof within sixty days from the effective date of this Ordinance.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
Item 14A, “Re- ferred from the Advisory Budget/Finance Meeting November 12, 2025 - St. Mary Community Action Agency has submitted their pre- application re- questing funds for Program Year 2026. Funding Re- quest $69,500.00.(Transportation Funds - $45,500.00 and Elderly Nutrition - $24,000.00), was moved up.
Clerk of the Council, Lisa Morgan stated that this request is for the 2026 Budget and action was taken at the December 10, 2025 meeting.
Rev. Mathews stated that several Advisory Budget Committee meetings were held this year that discussed cuts to the 2025 Budget. He requested that Budget cuts be restored to its original 100%.
Jeffrey Beverly, Housing Director and Almetra Franklin, CEO, St. Mary Community Action Agency, expounded on the importance of re- ceiving funding for transportation and Elderly Nutrition and requested the Council’s reconsideration to restore 100% of the original funding.
Mr. Governale stated that the 2025 Budget re- flects the 25% de- crease in funding and that the Parish is not able to give any additional funding for this year.
Several Council Members suggested St. Mary Community Action Agency reach out to the municipalities to contribute funding to this program.
After discussion, Rev. Mathews suggested the Council adopt a resolution encouraging municipalities to contribute to funding the Transportation and Elderly Nutrition programs.
In response to President Jones’ inquiry, Mr. Beverly expounded on FTA and LADOTD funding.
Rev. Mathews moved up Item 14B, “ Referred from the Advisory Budget/Finance Meeting November 12, 2025 - St. Mary Parish 4-H Shooting Sports has submitted their pre-application requesting funds for Program Year 2025. Funding Request $6,000.00.” He in- formed that Mr. Hill stated that he is open to sharing this allocation from his portion of funding from Wards 5 & 8 3/10% Sales Tax Fund if there is a match from other wards.
Discussion was had relative to the tax call and re- strictions of use of Wards 5 & 8 Sales Tax Fund.
Mr. Adams suggested St. Mary Parish 4-H Shooting Sports ask the School Board to help fund this program.
After discussion, Mr. Hebert moved to table Item 14B, “Referred from the Advisory Budget/Finance Meeting November 12, 2025 - St. Mary Parish 4-H Shooting Sports has submitted their pre-application requesting funds for Program Year 2025. Funding Re- quest $6,000.00,” to the January 14, 2026 meeting. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Dr. Rink moved that the following Ordinance, including amendments, be adopted. Rev. Mathews seconded the motion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Ina, Olander, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Du- hon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, and Mat-hews
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Hill
ORDINANCE
NO. 2420
Ordinance amending and re-enacting Ordinance No. 2379 adopting the 2025 Combined Budgets of Revenues and Expenditures for the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
Mr. Olander moved that the following Resolution be adopted. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, Mathews, and Ina
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Hill
RESOLUTION
Resolution auth- orizing Sam Jones, the President of the Parish of St. Mary to execute a contract with Fairbanks Scales, Inc. relative to the Landfill Scale Re- placement Project at the Harold J. “Babe” Landry Landfill (SMPG Project No. 25-10-01).
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that Sam Jones, President of the Parish of St. Mary, be and he is hereby authorized and directed, for and on behalf of the Parish Council, to execute a contract with Fairbanks Scales, Inc., 216 Plauche Court, Harahan, LA 70123, relative to the Landfill Scale Replacement Project at Harold J. “Babe” Landry Landfill, with said contract to contain such terms, conditions, and stipulations as he may best see fit, he being fully authorized in the premises.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 17th day of December 2025.
APPROVED:
S/G GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
S/G LISA C. MORGAN
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
In response to Mr. Adams’ inquiry, Mr. Governale stated that completion of this project should take approximately one (1) month.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Referred from the Advisory Budget/Finance Meeting November 12, 2025 - St. Mary Community Action Agency has submitted their pre- application re- questing funds for Program Year 2026. Funding Re- quest $69,500.00. (Transportation Funds - $45,500.00 and Elderly Nutrition - $24,000.00)
This item was discussed earlier.
B. Referred from the Advisory Budget/Finance Meeting November 12, 2025 - St. Mary Parish 4-H Shooting Sports has submitted their pre-application requesting funds for Program Year 2025. Funding Request $6,000.00.
This item was discussed earlier.
C. Referred from the November 12, 2025, Regular Council Meeting – Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Atchafalaya Golf Course Commission – 1 Vacancy
Douglas Streety, Jr., Randy Bijeaux
Mr. Rulf moved that this item be tabled indefinitely. Mr. Duhon seconded the motion, which carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. We received the following financial statements:
Fire Protection District No. 11 – year ended September 30, 2024
Dr. Rink stated that she spoke with Fire Chief, Clarence Clark, who informed that they were not delinquent in filing their 2024 statement, it was an error in submission from their accountant to the Parish.
B. Discussion relative to St. Mary Parish Council Regular Meeting Dates, Times, and Places for year 2026.
After discussion, Mr. Adams moved to approve St. Mary Parish Council Regular Meeting Dates, Times, and Places for year 2026. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried.
C. Kevin Ardoin, Laboratory Director, Acadiana Criminalistics Laboratory writes that the Annual Commission Meeting hosted by the Acadiana Crime Lab was held on Thursday, December 4, 2025. During the meeting, the 2026 Proposed Budget was approved by the Commission members in attendance.
The budget must be approved by at least a majority of the governing authorities of the parishes which the Commission serves.
Mr. Adams re- quested that a copy of their 2026 Proposed Budget be submitted to the Council for review.
In response to Mr. Hebert’s inquiry, Mr. Governale stated that the Parish has paid its share of the Crime Lab construction cost using the Opioid funding.
After discussion, Mr. Adams moved that this item be tabled to the January 14, 2025 meeting to allow the Council to review their 2026 Proposed Budget. Mr. Duhon seconded the motion, which carried.
D. Robbie Squires, Director of Government Affairs, Cox Communications Central Region, has emailed to inform you that effective “January 8, 2026, we are increasing the rates of our video and internet services to reflect the increased costs of doing business. We will begin communications to our customers 30 days prior to the in- crease, which will appear as a message on their bill. We don’t make this decision lightly as we know that any bill increase can have an impact. With that in mind, we remain strongly committed to delivering value to our customers. In addition, some in- ternet customers may see a $4 in- crease depending on their service plan. Price changes will be for video services
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach me at (405) 286-5061 or Robbie.Sqiores@cox.com.
E. Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Communications District E 911 (Emergency Medical Services) - 1 Vacancy
Brandi Leonard
Dr. Rink moved that Brandi Leonard be appointed to Communications District E 911. Mr. Davis seconded the motion, which carried.
Board of Adjustments for St. Mary Parish – 1 Vacancy
John “Booker” Davis – Present Member
Mr. Olander moved that John “Booker” Davis be reappointed to the Board of Adjustments for St. Mary Parish. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Mosquito Control District No. 1 (Cypremort) – 2 Vacancies
Vickie A. Frederick – Present Member
Mr. Olander moved that Vickie A. Frederick be reappointed to Mosquito Control District No. 1. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
St. Mary Parish Planning & Zoning Commission – 1 Vacancy
Richard J. Tabor, Melissa Darden
Lisa Morgan stated that a late application was received after the deadline from present member, Glynn Pellerin.
Mr. Olander moved that Richard J. Tabor be appointed to the St. Mary Parish Planning & Zoning Commission. Mr. Duhon seconded the motion.
Amended motion was made by Mr. Ina and seconded by Rev. Mathews that Melissa Dar-den be appointed to the St. Mary Parish Planning & Zoning Commission.
Following Discussion, the vote to amend the motion to appoint Melissa Darden to the St. Mary Parish Planning & Zoning Commission carried by the following 7-3-0-1 Roll Call Vote:
YEAS: Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, Mathews, and Ina
NAYS: Rulf, He- bert, and Olander
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Hill
The motion to appoint Melissa Darden to the St. Mary Parish Planning & Zoning Commission carried by an all in favor vote.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
s/g Lisa C. Morgan
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. Jan. 21, 2026

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING REPORT
DECEMBER 17, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
5:45 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Council held a Public Hearing on this date with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present: Rev. Craig Mathews, Rodney Olander, Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., and Mark Duhon. Absent were J Ina, David W. Hill, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D.
The purpose of the Public Hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to the following Ordinance:
An Ordinance amending and re- enacting Ordinance No. 2379 adopting the 2025 Combined Budgets of Revenues and Expenditures for the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana.
There were no written and/or oral comments were received regarding the above ordinance.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
s/g Lisa C. Morgan
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. Jan. 21, 2026

mmm

I don’t know about you, but I sure am confused about all this current debate over gender equity, gay rights, and transgenders.
I keep reading in the newspaper about LGBT. I had to look up the lettering to even know what the abbreviation means.
Being “politically correct” has become an obsession with much of the country as well as right here at home in Louisiana.
Now personally, I don’t have a dog in this hunt.
Carry on your personal lifestyle as long as you don’t interfere with my way of life or my personal freedoms.
Live and let live. But too often today, one lifestyle interferes with that of another.
If a baker is in business to make a living, why turn down anyone who wants a cake baked for his or her wedding?
On the other hand, if it’s a gay wedding and the baker refuses to bake a wedding cake, why would the gay couple want to do business with someone they consider bigoted?
And this whole transgender bathroom thing? How did transgenders go to the bathroom for the past 100 years?
I never really check out someone using the stall next to me.
And why all the need for separate men and women’s bathrooms in the first place? Many restaurants in New Orleans have one bathroom for either sex to use.
Have you gone to a sporting event and seen a long line for women and none for men? Architects ought to be more creative in designing safe and clean restrooms that can be more efficiently shared by everyone.
I wrote in my column recently about the hypocrisy of hate crimes.
Why should any criminal be given a greater sentence because he or she committed crimes based on race, sexuality, sexual identity or physical ability?
If a child is tortured and murdered, is that to be considered less of a crime than if an Asian or a handicapped person is killed? Political correctness should not be a factor.
In Natchitoches Parish this past Christmas, a school principal was suspended for allowing a student-led prayer to take place.
There was no sponsorship by the school.
The students were just allowed to pray. But this wasn’t politically correct in this day and age.
Kids can pray under their breath but not out loud? Nonsense!
I wanted to order the wonderful Disney film “Song of the South” recently to watch with my grandchildren.
Remember all those enticing songs like “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah” and “That’s What Uncle Remus Said?” Uncle Remus was an American Aesop, full of delightful stories (“Don’t throw me into the briar patch”).
But the film has been out of circulation since 2000 because some critics say it glorifies slavery, even though the story takes place years after the Civil War.
But not to offend anyone, so our kids miss out on a delightful tale of magical fables.
And for goodness sake, don’t attempt to bless anyone if they sneeze or for any other purpose. Up in New Hampshire, an election worker was recently fired for telling voters as they left the voting booth “God bless you.”
It was supposedly a form of electioneering.
I guess election officials were afraid a voter might have so disconcerted over the candidates running that they might go back into the voting booth and vote for the Good Lord instead.
A person can be sensitive to how others might feel without worrying that their every utterance may cause someone to take offense.
Some of us feel it necessary to be more politically correct than do others.
But a vibrant and strong country is only as courageous and agile as the sum of its parts.
I’m willing to go just so far to appease the P.C. crowd.
Look, I’m a redneck, not someone who is rustically inclined.
And we are always going to have hurricanes down here in Louisiana, not himmicanes. Sometimes, things are said where you take personal offense.
But we can also go overboard by assuming a “victim mentality.”
You can be polite, but in doing so, you don’t have to shy away from telling it like it is. I try to do just that in offering you my perspective in my column each week.
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.jimbrownusa.com.

It took Southern Pacific a little while to catch on to the idea of recruiting settlers to live alongside its tracks across the Louisiana prairies, but the company did it with a vengeance one it started. One of its agents, Sylvester L. Cary, was almost certainly the most aggressive promoter of prairie settlement and is credited with bringing more than 10,000 men, women and children to southwest Louisiana in the late 1800s,
He compiled a promotional booklet, “Southwest Louisiana on the Line of the Southern Pacific Company” (Poole Brothers Publishers, Chicago, 1893), to boost his claim that there was no better place to live and farm, and included reports from “the most knowledgeable experts “ alongside his own essays, Most of them described the many things that could be easily and profitably grown here, but some included testimonies acclaiming this as a place “where you can have most of life’s blessings with the least expenditure of labor … and where most of the necessities and comforts of life can be produced on the spot.”
The rice industry was just beginning to flourish, and Cary predicted with “no hesitation” that “Southwestern Louisiana, with her improved machinery, her generous soil, wonderful climate … easy conditions, [and] splendid people … will [always] grow rice at a good round profit.”
He said large orchards, particularly of orange trees, were plentiful and profitable, that dewberries, blackberries, and strawberries were “very successful,” and that “the mayhaw, growing wild and in abundance, rivals the guava for jelly,” He described the fig, “queen of fruits,” as “the most prolific and valuable of all,” and wrote about groves of walnuts, pecans, and almonds in what he called this “eminently tree bearing country.”
One essayist said even townsfolk could keep a large truck garden filled with whatever vegetables they liked, especially if wives pitched in with the planting and picking. Another suggested that the prairies were perfect to grow tobacco. A St. Landry planter who grew a bit of just about everything mentioned in the brochure wrote, “If I should tell you of the marvelous crops I grow here, you would think it more like a fairy story than a reality.”
That was exactly what Cary preached, and he had another big selling point to lure his former neighbors from the North. “Pinching cold, chattering teeth, [and] frost-bitten limbs awake neither intelligence, enterprise, thankfulness or genius in a man,” he argued. “Give me a gentle clime, [and] a generous soil laden with moisture and sparkling dew.”
To illustrate the point, his little book includes a letter written by W.J. Randolph one winter day to a friend still living in the frigid North. The writer moved from the Dakotas to the Millersburg community on Bayou Nezpiqué and couldn’t help comparing the winters in the two places.
“I have [yet to see] the first Northern settler [in southwest Louisiana] … who wants to spend the winter in Michigan,” he wrote, “When I read of 30 degrees below zero … I shudder and wonder if I really was ever there. We have had a few frosts [but] the grass is green and cattle and horses on the range are fat and sleek. I am writing in a room without fire and doors open,
“Here, if we can’t buy shoes … we go barefoot and never think of freezing,” he claimed. “[I think] I will hitch up and take a buggy ride, just for fun, and think of you poor fellows up there, pressing your nose against the window glass wondering when the storm will let up. … Here we can laugh at the storm … and luxuriate on [our] sweet potato, rice, poultry, eggs, sugar and syrup, corn bread [and] beef … all of home production.”
Cary thought the gentle climate also made for gentler people. He wrote that in Jennings, “you can shake hands with people from every state north of Mason and Dixon’s line. … [They] are more … social since breathing Southern air. … They seem to be on better terms with God and themselves since landing in this gentle clime,” he said.
I’ll buy into practically all of the booklet’s claims.
It’s the bit about bare feet that bothers me. I don’t think I’d be quite as cavalier as W. J. Reynold about going shoeless even on the balmiest winter day. I hope he wrote that tongue-in-cheek and that if he actually took his touted buggy ride both he and his sleek horse were fully shod.
 You can contact Jim Bradshaw at jimbradshaw4321@gmail.com or P.O. Box 1121, Washington LA 70589.