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Berwick student earns degree

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 11:39am

A Berwick student is among 1,060 people who received diplomas Dec. 13 at Southeastern Louisiana University.
Daja Rasha Batiste, Berwick, received a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work.
Southeastern graduates included 344 men and 716 women, who were receiving 15 different degrees and representing 10 states and 18 countries. Candidates for associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees were honored.

Hungary signs deal for U.S. LNG

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 11:37am

ALTON WALLACE, The Center Square

Hungary’s state-owned MVM Group last week signed a five-year agreement with Chevron to purchase 400 million cubic meters of liquified natural gas annually, marking the first time American gas will be integrated into Hungary’s energy mix.
Chevron is likely to provide LNG from supplies sourced at Energy Transfer’s Lake Charles export facility in Louisiana. Chevron has signed long-term agreements with Energy Transfer to purchase 3 million tons of LNG annually from the plant, which is expected to begin operations in 2028 or 2029. The gas supplied by Chevron will reach Hungary via the Krk LNG terminal in Croatia.
Hungary has faced pressure to diversify its energy supplies away from Russian sources, which remain the nation’s top supplier. Russia supplied Hungary with a record 8.6 billion cubic meters of gas in 2024, and similar volumes are expected for 2025.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán recently secured assurances from Russian President Vladimir Putin that contractual deliveries will continue via the TurkStream and Druzhba pipelines, which run through about a dozen countries in Russia, Eastern and Central Europe and Turkey.
Earlier this month, Hungary filed a legal challenge with the European Court of Justice over a recent decision by the European Union to mandate that member countries ban all Russian gas imports by late 2027.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said the prohibition violates national sovereignty.
Szijjarto said the agreement with Chevron is “an important milestone in American-Hungarian energy cooperation.”
Combined with the deal, supply agreements with Shell, France’s Engie and Azerbaijan’s SOCAR take Hungary’s non-Russian gas supply to approximately 1.4 billion cubic meters annually.
“We are interested in purchasing energy from as many sources and via as many routes as possible, ensuring the lowest prices,” Szijjarto posted on X.

St. Mary deputies make arrest in sexual assault case

Mon, 12/22/2025 - 12:20pm

Staff Report

(Editor’s note: The charges listed here and the narratives that go with them are provided by the police agencies that made the arrests. Guilt or innocence has not been determined in court.)

St. Mary deputies reported the arrest of a Breaux Bridge teenager accused of rape and indecent behavior.

Other agencies made arrests on obscenity, stalking, cyberstalking and domestic abuse charges.

St. Mary

Sheriff Gary Driskell reported these arrests:

--Ethan Channing Breaux, 19, of Breaux Bridge, was arrested about 2:17 p.m. Dec. 17 on a warrant charging alleging third-degree rape and indecent behavior with a juvenile.

On Nov. 6, a detective with the St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office became aware of an incident involving a juvenile and initiated an investigation. Over the course of the following days, the detective gathered evidence and information sufficient to apply for an arrest warrant related to the incident.

The warrant was obtained, and with the assistance of the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office, Breaux was located and arrested. He was subsequently transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking. At this time, bond has not
been set.

The sheriff and the Criminal Investigations Division of the St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office would like to thank the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office and the St. Martin Parish Sheriff's Office for their assistance in this investigation.

--Charlotte Tonya Bracamontes, 37, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:40 a.m. Dec. 17 on charges of disturbing the peace (intoxicated) and resisting arrest or officer. Bracamontes was released on a $3,500 bond.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported these arrests:

--John Lugo, 21, Julia Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 8:38 p.m. Friday on charges of possession of marijuana (first) and failure to signal. (Released on summons.)

--Kari Berard, 37, Federal Avenue, Morgan City, was arrested at 2:10 a.m. Saturday on charges of disturbing the peace and resisting an officer.

--William Haff, 44, Trina Street, Patterson, was arrested at 4:41 p.m. Saturday on charges of aggravated cruelty to animals and illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities.

--Henry Menant, 70, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 5:17 p.m. Sunday on charges of obscenity, indecent behavior with juveniles and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile.

--Kari Warden, 40, Cottonwood Street, Morgan City, was arrested 9:59 p.m. Sunday on a charge of cyberstalking.

--Mario Cepeda, 41, Laurel Street, Lake Jackson, Texas, was at 12:29 a.m. Friday on charges of driving while intoxicated (first offense), open container, reckless operation and improper lane usage.

--James Hallum, 32, Bayou Dularge Road, Houma, was arrested at 10:56 a.m. Dec. 17 on three counts of failure to appear to pay fine (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Leonard Allen, 59, 0Federal Avenue, Morgan City, was arrested at 5:50 p.m. Dec. 17 on a charge of failure to appear to pay fine (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

Berwick

Chief JP Henry reported these arrests:

--Juvenile male, 13, was arrested at 4:41 p.m. Thursday on a warrant alleging domestic abuse battery (strangulation).

The warrant stems from a domestic disturbance that occurred on Dec. 12 at a Berwick residence involving a 13-year-old male juvenile.

An investigation determined the juvenile committed a battery against his mother and made additional threats toward her and other family members. A warrant was issued, and the juvenile was arrested Thursday. He is currently being held pending
juvenile court proceedings.

--Brock James Broussard, 37, Patterson, was arrested at 5:32 p.m. Dec. 16 on warrants alleging unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, two counts of violation of a protective order, stalking,

Broussard remains incarcerated waiting bond to be set.

Patterson

Chief Garrett Grogan reported this arrest:

--Quintus J. Williams, 36, L Street, Patterson, was arrested at 12:52 p.m. Thursday on charges of illegal tinted windows and speeding 1-10 mph over the limit. Williams was incarcerated at the Patterson PD Jail with bond set at $886.

Assumption

Sheriff Leland Falcon reported this arrest:

--Samantha Broussard, Vivien Street, Bayou L’Ourse, was booked Thursday on a charge of aggravated battery.

The charge arises from an incident that occurred March 1 at a residence in Bayou L’Ourse.

On the aforementioned date, deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 1000 block of La.398. Deputies made contact with the complainant, who advised that he was previously in a relationship with Broussard and they were now estranged.

The complainant advised that Broussard had come to his home and was unruly and at some point punched him in the face. Broussard then allegedly struck the complainant in the lower extremities with a lamp.

Investigating deputies observed evidence consistent with the allegations lodged by the complainant.

Deputies obtained a warrant for the arrest of Broussard.

She was in the custody of the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office. Broussard was released to the Assumption Parish Sheriff's Office on Thursdday. Broussard was booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center and remains incarcerated with bond set at $50,000.

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy reported these arrests:

--Amary Bean, 20, Ibert Street, Franklin, was arrested at 9:22 p.m. Dec. 17 on warrants for 3rd Ward City Court alleging failure to appear on charges of license plate light, no vehicle registration, no insurance and allowing unlicensed persons under 17 to drive. Bean was booked, processed and held on a $1,076 bond.

--Joel Divinity, 19, Mirabeau Avenue, New Orleans, was arrested at 9:22 p.m. Dec. 17 on charges of resisting an officer and interfering with a law enforcement investigation. Divinity was booked, processed and held with no bond set at the time of press release.

--Charlie Williams, 47, Blakesley Street, Franklin, was arrested at 3:09 p.m. Thursday on charges of aggravated assault on a peace officer, resisting an officer with force or violence, misrepresentation during booking, theft and three counts of resisting an officer. Williams was booked, processed and transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center.

--Logan Parker, 27, Joseph Street, Franklin, was arrested 7:23 p.m. Thursday on warrants for 3rd Ward City Court alleging failure to appear on charges of speeding, driving under suspension, illuminating devices required, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Parker was booked, processed and released on a $1,444 bond.

--Povial Ward, 35, Cayce Street, Franklin, was arrested at 9:31 p.m. Thursday on a warrant for 3rd Ward City Court alleging failure to appear on charges of driving under suspension and no turn signal. Ward was booked, processed and held on a $338 bond.

--Shekinah Barto, 22, Willow Street, Franklin, was arrested at 11:21 p.m. Thursday on a warrant for 3rd Ward City Court alleging failure to appear on a charge of speeding. Barto was booked, processed and released on a $338 bond.

--Dwayne Freeman, 50, Ash Street, Franklin, was arrested at 6:52 p.m. Thursday on a warrant dated Aug. 17 alleging domestic abuse battery, and a warrant dated Nov. 9 alleging simple assault, disturbing the peace and resisting an officer. Freeman was additionally arrested on a warrant for 16th Judicial District Court alleging failure to appear on a charge of possession of synthetic cannabinoids (second offense). Freeman was booked, processed and held on a $19,500 bond.

--Brandon Davis, 47, Willow Street, Franklin, was arrested at 8:50 p.m. Friday on a warrant alleging probation violation. Davis was booked, processed and held with no bond set at the time of press release.

--Alfred Kinchen, 63, Willow Street, Franklin, was arrested at 8:57 p.m. Friday on a warrant for 3rd Ward City Court alleging failure to appear on charges of speeding and no insurance. Kinchen was booked, processed and released on a $738 bond.

President makes governor envoy to Greenland

Mon, 12/22/2025 - 11:34am

NOLAN McKENDRY, The Center Square

President Donald Trump, continuing his pursuit of Greenland, has named Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry as a special envoy to the territory.
Trump announced the appointment in a Truth Social post on Sunday, describing Greenland as strategically important to U.S. national security. Landry, in a post on X, thanked Trump for the assignment and said it would not interfere with his duties as governor.
"It’s an honor to serve you in this volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the U.S.," Landry wrote.
The new envoy role lands amid renewed friction between Washington and Copenhagen over Trump’s repeated public interest in acquiring Greenland, a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
Danish and Greenlandic officials have previously rejected any suggestion that the territory is for sale, and reiterated that Greenland’s future is for Greenlanders to decide.
Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said on Facebook that Trump's announcement of the envoy appointment "may sound big,” but “it does not change anything for us."
Nielsen said Greenland’s future is “decided by ourselves,” calling Greenland “our country” and insisting that “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders” and that its “territorial integrity must be respected.” He said Greenland is willing to cooperate with countries, including the U.S., but only “with respect for us and our values and wishes,” adding that there is “no need for insecurity” because Greenlanders “stand together and we stand firm."
Trump told Congress earlier this year the U.S. needs Greenland "for national security and even international security, and we're working with everybody involved to try and get it. But we need it, really, for international world security."
The U.S. military operates Pituffik Space Base, formerly Thule Air Base, in northwest Greenland, a key site for missile warning, missile defense and space surveillance. The base’s radar capabilities feed U.S. and NATO early-warning architecture.
The island is also seen as a potential source of critical minerals and hydrocarbons as Arctic access expands. The U.S. Geological Survey has estimated large “undiscovered” oil-and-gas potential in Greenland-related Arctic provinces, including tens of billions of barrels of oil equivalent in East Greenland rift basins.
On the minerals front, a Greenland-to-Louisiana supply chain is already taking shape.
In August, Reuters reported that Critical Metals Corp., which is developing Greenland’s Tanbreez rare earth project, signed a 10-year deal to send up to 10,000 metric tons a year of rare-earth material to Ucore Rare Metals’ processing facility in Alexandria, Louisiana, a project backed by the U.S. Defense Department.
As The Center Square previously reported, Louisiana is positioning itself as a major processing hub for rare earths and battery materials, with one critical-minerals plant operating and seven more under construction statewide, as the U.S. tries to reduce reliance on China.
Landry, a Republican, served in Congress and as attorney general before he was elected governor in 2023.
A spokesperson told USA Today Network the envoy role is unpaid and does not conflict with state law. Details about how much time or travel the position will require have not been released.
Republican Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser said Landry did not inform him about the appointment beforehand. “It’s up to him and the people of Louisiana to decide if he can effectively serve both positions,” Nungesser said.
Republican House Speaker Phillip DeVillier voiced support, telling The Shreveport Times that Landry “is passionate about our state” and can balance both roles effectively.

VALANE ANN SOLAR

Mon, 12/22/2025 - 10:07am

Valane Ann Solar, a native and longtime resident of Morgan City, died Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, at the age of 59.

She is survived by her daughter, Lauryssa LaCoste; her grandson; and her brothers, James Solar and his wife, Lina, Robert Solar, Eric Solar, and Nicholas Solar.

She is preceded in death by her parents and three sisters.

Family, friends and members of the community were invited to attend the visitation from 11 a.m. Monday until service time, which was at 1 p.m. at Hargrave Funeral Home. Burial followed in the Morgan City Cemetery.

Hargrave Funeral Home of Morgan City is in charge of arrangements.

John K. Flores: Friendship is the Christmas gift that never stops giving

Fri, 12/19/2025 - 6:00am

JOHN K. FLORES

In the New King James Bible, Proverbs 18:24 reads, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
In Ecclesiastes, chapter 4, verses 9-10, reads, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
Throughout the years what I’ve come to know is, most of my deepest, closest and lifelong friends were born out of our mutual love of hunting, fishing and other things that are done in the great outdoors.
Christmas is all about giving and long ago I also realized each one of them were a gift from God.
Over the years, the older I’ve gotten, it’s usually around Christmas where I begin to reminisce about the adventures those friends and I shared. Some of them were excruciatingly hard. They were the kind that challenged us as young men and out of it built our character and fortitude.
One of those life-friends is Ronnie Lee Elswick, who today lives in Alamogordo, New Mexico. We became friends in 1977, during my second year in the Air Force. Ronnie Lee was also in the Air Force at that time, and we met through his wife, who was babysitting my wife and my daughter Crystal.
Ronnie Lee was a country boy from West Virginia. He had this innate compass and therefore was never lost during our backpack excursions into the Sacramento Mountains hunting mule deer. I, on the other hand, required a little more time to sort things out when I got turned around.
It is in this country where everything is either straight up or down, and if not, on a steep slant. Always the dreamer of our small group, I would annually drop some bomb of an idea that always took planning and preparation to overcome the specific challenge.
One year while backpacking some 3½ miles from the nearest road, a cold front came through. It was one of those weather systems that brought miserable cold rain with brief interludes of frozen precipitation turning to ice.
Our camp consisted of what we could carry on our backs, which was pup tents and sleeping bags. The campfire was hard to keep going in the wet conditions and at night, our sleeping bags froze to the ground.
The next day the skies were blue, but our gear was wet — clothes, tent and sleeping bags. Instead of hunting we spent hours standing next to a bonfire in our boxer shorts drying clothes and bedding. Despite the hardship, we didn’t give up and the next day I killed a 10-point mule deer that Ronnie Lee helped me pack out.
Ronnie Lee also had a wisdom like what you would get from “The Waltons,” a 70s television drama depicting family life in rural West Virginia.
He once bought a Savage Model 110 bolt action rifle in a 30-06 caliber and paid what I thought was a lot for the gun. I said to him, “Wow, is it worth it?”
He replied, “It’s worth it to me!”
I’ve never forgotten those words and often think of them before spending money on something. “Is it worth it to me?” Those words have saved me a lot of money over the years, and they came with the gift of friendship that cost me nothing.
Another dear friend, Ricky Guidry, not only was someone I hunted with on a lease we shared but was also someone who was my prayer partner. Once a week for several years, we would fast and pray one lunch hour. We’d pray about all sorts of things from our community to our church, the sick and our families.
Rick the hunter was a guy that got all excited about the hunt and kill, whether from the deer stand or duck blind in the marsh. But up in town, he was a soft-spoken, mild-mannered man that knew how to pray.
On one of our prayer days, that morning I had had a small spat with my wife. I asked Rick if he minded us praying for peace. In his soft-spoken voice what he said spoke louder than a hell fire and brimstone preacher at a tent meeting saying, “What stupid thing did you say to Christine?”
Those words saved me from perhaps a night or two in the doghouse. What’s more, they also came with the gift of friendship that cost me nothing.
I shared more duck and goose blinds than I can remember with Jerry Gauthier.
My wife and I met Jerry and his wife Marty at church and we became close where eventually Christine would babysit their son Jason during those infant and toddler years.
Jerry, in one of our philosophical exchanges in the duck blind, taught me “No is an OK answer.” Our deep discussions and the integrity he walked with served me well in my career. His friendship and wisdom came as a gift and it too, cost me nothing.
I met Jimmy Wilson when I moved to Louisiana in 1984. What’s more, he has been my closest friend ever since. Early on in our friendship I would invite our family to his house on Sundays to watch the New Orleans Saints and eat his barbecue chicken.
Christine would say to me, “You can’t invite yourself like that!”
I remember replying, “Why? He’s, my friend!”
Jimmy and his wife Pauline’s children and our kids grew up together and today are lifelong friends as well.
Jimmy is a storyteller and missed his calling as comedian. I’ve heard his, “John tried to kill me in the marsh routine,” numerous times.
It never gets old. It is one of those you had to be there stories and is based on putting up a wooden deer stand built from discarded power line timbers in the early fall when the temperature is still in the 90s.
Proverbs 17:22 says: A joyful heart is good medicine. His friendship and ability to make me laugh came as a gift to me and it too, cost me nothing.
Ricky Guidry and Jerry Gauthier have gone on to be with the Lord. They both ran their race here on earth, where I’m sure they were greeted by the Lord who said, “Well done good and faithful servants.”
As we celebrate Christmas, Jesus is the reason for the season. He came as a gift to the entire world.
In John 15:15 (NIV), He says to His disciples, “I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”
Merry Christmas, my friends!
John Flores is the Morgan City Review’s outdoor writer. He can be contacted at gowiththeflo@cox.net.

Home (alone) for Christmas: Louisiana feels impact of epidemic of loneliness

Fri, 12/19/2025 - 6:00am

An online survey finds that Christmas will be a lonely time for tens of thousands of Louisiana people.
The survey by A Mission for Michael, a mental health advocacy group, indicates that 56,743 Louisianians will spend Christmas alone this year.
That’s the third-highest number among the states.
Loneliness has quietly become one of America’s most widespread public-health issues: a chronic, grinding isolation that hits people year-round.
But the holiday season magnifies everything. December is saturated with images of togetherness: family dinners, matching pajamas, full houses and overflowing calendars. For anyone spending Christmas alone — whether through distance, estrangement, work schedules or recent life changes — that contrast can feel brutal.
Expectations about how Christmas “should” look turn private solitude into something that feels like failure, leaving many people dreading a day that is meant to feel joyful.
A Mission for Michael surveyed over 3,000 adults who live alone to understand how many expect to spend Christmas 2025 in solitude and why. When extrapolated nationally, the findings suggest that a staggering 14 million Americans will be alone this Christmas.
Where Christmas
will be quietest
•1. Wisconsin — 45,424 people spending it alone
•2. Tennessee — 56,286
•3. Louisiana — 56,743
•4. Minnesota — 72,213
•5. Maryland — 117,768
The data shows that, when weighted by the number of people who live alone, Louisiana ranks as the third-loneliest state this Christmas.
Why are so many spending it alone?
Respondents shared a wide range of reasons - from the logistical to the deeply emotional:
•29% live far from family or friends and can’t make the trip
•17% say travel is simply too expensive
•20% are staying away due to family conflict
•11% are tied up with work
•16% say they actually prefer to spend Christmas alone
•7% don’t celebrate Christmas at all
While not everyone feels bad about a solo holiday, a significant portion carry emotional weight into the season:
•25% say they feel lonely
•22% feel sad
•9% report being overwhelmed
•7% are anxious
•37% are simply indifferent
Some people have proactive plans to make the best of it, while others admit they will just see how it goes:
•28% will watch holiday movies or TV to feel festive
•19% plan to “treat themselves” with food, gifts, or self-care
•15% will connect virtually with loved ones
•8% will work through the day to stay busy
•5% will volunteer or get involved in their community
•3% are going away on a solo trip
•22% say they have no plan at all
Perceptions
and fears
•47% believe there’s still a stigma to spending Christmas alone
•27% say Christmas 2025 may be their loneliest yet
•59% agree that Christmas magnifies loneliness more than any other time
•56% believe we are living through a “silent epidemic” of holiday isolation
•38% would skip Christmas entirely if given the option
When asked what their biggest fear is about spending Christmas alone:
•16% worry about feeling depressed
•14% fear feeling forgotten
•13% dread having no plans
•11% fear having no one to talk to
•6% feel embarrassed to admit it
•40% say they have no fears about it at all
“We often think of Christmas as a time of joy, but for many people, it becomes a mirror for everything they feel they’re missing," says Anand Meta, executive director of A Mission for Michael.
“Loneliness doesn’t take a holiday, but neither does hope, and the more we normalize these feelings, the easier it becomes to reach out, speak up, or simply take the pressure off a ‘perfect’ Christmas.”
A Mission for Michael was founded by a family that lost a son to mental illness.

Dear Abby: Months after breakup, man sees ‘signs’ amid heartache

Fri, 12/19/2025 - 6:00am

DEAR ABBY: I’m a 55-year-old man who dated a very special lady, “Dawn,” for 12 years. We were both married when we met. I fell in love with her, and after we divorced our spouses, we continued being together.
I have two kids. Dawn didn’t get along with the older one. My daughter wasn’t rude, but she obviously didn’t like Dawn. I proposed to Dawn, and she accepted. Over the next few months, she became agitated and threw her engagement ring back at me. I kept it until we figured things out.
Two years later, Dawn ghosted me. I was hurt, so I gave her space. (We reconciled five months later.) Three years later, I finally trusted her enough to ask her about getting married. Then, right at Christmas, she ghosted me again. Six months later, nothing. I texted her after four months to no avail.
I am now in therapy. Abby, I don’t know how to move forward. Sometimes I get these divine messages, signs, dreams, etc. I hesitate to label anyone, but I wonder if I’m dealing with a woman who has a commitment phobia. What should I do now? I have respectfully not contacted her except once. I am heartbroken. I’m not asking if I should wait around. I’m living my life. But these divine messages and signs have me wondering.
DESTROYED IN VIRGINIA

DEAR DESTROYED: I am pleased you are now in therapy, because it is where you belong. I don’t know what your daughter picked up on about Dawn, but perhaps you should ask her. If you do, it may give you some insight. Your therapist may be able to explain what Dawn’s problem is, but whatever it is, it is no longer your problem.
Those dreams, signs and messages you are receiving are not divine; they are proof that your subconscious still hasn’t let go of the fantasy about a future with her. If, heaven forbid, the woman contacts you again, RUN in the opposite direction!

DEAR ABBY: Some people hint that they want to get on our social calendar, yet they expect us to be the ones to invite them. An example: “Say, when are we getting together for dinner?” is repeated often. If they invited us to dinner at a specific place and specific time, it would probably happen, but I’m uncomfortable that they put the burden on us to initiate the event.
Is there a rule of etiquette about this? Why are people like this? I can’t be sure if they are sincere about wanting to get together. Often, I’m just as happy we didn’t meet up, because we have lots of active friendships already.
CLUELESS
IN RALEIGH
DEAR CLUELESS: When someone asks, “When are we getting together for dinner?” your answer should be, “As soon as YOU CALL ME so I can make sure we are available.” If you prefer NOT to get together for dinner, all you have to say is, “Our schedule is really full right now. I’ll let you know when we are free.” (Then change the subject.)

***

To receive a collection of Abby’s most memorable — and most frequently requested — poems and essays, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby — Keepers Booklet, P.O. Box 446, Kings Mills, OH 45034-0446.

Public notices for Dec. 19, 2025

Fri, 12/19/2025 - 6:00am

PUBLIC NOTICE
Regular Meeting of St. Mary Parish School Board
11/13/2025 05:30 PM
Evans Medine Meeting Room
474 Hwy 317, Centerville, LA 70522
MEETING MINUTES
—————
Attendance
—————
Voting Members
Guienzy Brent, Board Member
Dr. Tammie Wilson, Board Member - Vice President
Lindsey Anslem, Board Member
Debra Jones, Board Member
Marilyn LaSalle, Board Member
Alaina Black, Board Member - President
Andrew Mancuso, Board Member
Rhonda Dennis, Board Member
Lawrence Guillory, Board Member
Absent Members
Ginger Griffin, Board Member
Chad Paradee, Board Member
—————
I. Meeting Called to Order (Mrs. Black)
The meeting was called to order by Mrs. Black.
1. Roll Call (Dr. Sanders)
The roll call was conducted by Dr. Sanders.
II. Opening of Regular Meeting
The St. Mary Parish School Board met in regular session on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., in the Evans Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex in Centerville, Louisiana for the following purposes and to take whatever actions necessary. The meeting may be viewed online at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnZ1z15loF_FZnVcBe09cRQ
1. Invocation (Mr. Holmes)
Mr. Holmes gave the Invocation.
2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America (Mrs. Black)
President Black led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
3. Introduction of Students and Employees of the Month. (Mrs. Black)
Recognition of Students and Em- ployees of the Month was introduced by their re- spective school principals. Each principal provided brief remarks highlighting the achievements and contributions of the honorees as follows:
A. Hattie Watts Elementary School: Cohen Plessala, 4th Grade Student, and Caren Richard, Teacher
B. Morgan City Junior School: Gracie Grizzaffi, 8th Grade Student, and Hamid Demdoum, Teacher
C. West St. Mary High School: Amyrie’ Barabin, 12th Grade Student, and Kendall Mouton, Teacher
III. Appearances:
1. Recognition of VAM teachers. (Ms. Estay)
Ms. Estay recognized VAM teachers as follows:
• Heather Crappell of Bayou Vista Elementary School
• Nicole Boudreaux of Hattie Watts Elementary School
• Maria Wade of Hattie Watts Elementary School
• Mary Gilmore of Hattie Watts Elementary School
• Alyssa Rhodes of Hattie Watts Elementary School
• Maybell Klein of Wyandotte Elementary School
• Stanley Tate- Williams of W. P. Foster Elementary School
• Kim Mire of Raintree Elementary School
• Chaquilla Coleman of Raintree Elementary School
• Renata Colar of Raintree Elementary School
• Angela Kulka of Berwick Junior High School
• Carissa Do- mingue of Centerville High School
• Deseraye Johnson of Centerville High School
• Cedric Moore of Franklin High School
IV. Approval of Amended Agenda (Mrs. Black)
There was no amended agenda.
V. Approval of Official School Board Minutes (Mrs. Black)
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve the minutes in globo for the regular school board meeting held on October 9, 2025, and the special meeting held on October 22, 2025, as presented.
Motion made by: Dr. Tammie Wilson
Motion seconded by: Marilyn LaSalle
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
1. Regular Meeting: October 9, 2025
2. Special Meeting: October 22, 2025
VI. Approval of Consent Agenda (Mrs. Black)
President Black stated that board members can remove any of the items on the consent agenda for further discussion in the regular proceedings. Dr. Sanders read aloud the items on the consent agenda.
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve the following consent agenda as presented by Dr. Sanders.
Motion made by: Lindsey Anslem
Motion seconded by: Andrew Mancuso
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
1. * Field Trips
A. *Berwick High School travel to Close-Up Foundation to Washington, DC on January 25-30, 2026. (Dr. Sanders)
B. *Morgan City High School travel to Close-Up Foundation to Washington, DC on January 25-30, 2026. (Dr. Sanders)
C. *Franklin Junior High School travel to History and STEM Tour to Atlanta, Orlando, and Panama City on May 31-June 6, 2026. (Dr. Sanders)
2. *Proclamations
A. *National Special Education Day. (Ms. Mitchell)
3. *Review of policies for consideration at the next regular board meeting. (Ms. Estay)
A. *Equal Opportunity Employment (GAAA)
B. *Education of Students with Exceptionalities (IDDF)
C. *Cameras in Special Education Classrooms (IDDFC)
D. *Equal Education Opportunities (JAA)
E. *Discipline (JD)
F. *Corporate Punishment (JDA)
G. *Bids and Quotations (DJED)
H. *Purchasing (DJE)
VII. Business Affairs
1. Receive Group Health Insurance Premium to Claims Summary Report. (Mr. James Perez)
Mr. James Perez provided the Board with an updated Premium to Claims Summary through October 2025 on the Group Health Insurance Plan, which reflects significantly lower numbers for the month. A correction was noted: medical claims total $125,555 and prescription drug claims total $487,117, with the overall total of $612,672 remaining accurate. The decrease is partly due to a prior claim of $233,018 being reversed, likely related to subrogation against Medicare or Medicaid. Even without this adjustment, October would still reflect a favorable month with a loss ratio of 79.7 percent; with the adjustment, the ratio is 57.72 percent. Efforts continue to seek additional concessions from Blue Cross beyond the current reduction from 5 percent to 2.5 percent, and updates will be provided at the next meeting.
2. 2026 Delta Dental voluntary employee- paid group dental plan renewal (report only). (Mr. James Perez)
Mr. James Perez reported that the voluntary group dental plan, paid entirely by employee contributions, received a renewal from Delta Dental with a 10.8 percent premium in- crease. After re- viewing market options, Delta Dental remained the most competitive. Negotiations secured a two-year rate guarantee, effective through January 2028. No board action re- quired.
3. 2026 Blue Cross Blue Shield voluntary employee-paid group vision plan renewal (report only). (Mr. James Perez)
Mr. James Perez reported that the Davis Vision plan through Blue Cross has been in place for approximately twelve years. This year, there was a very slight premium in- crease, and the plan remains fully employee-paid with no employer contribution. Due to the minimal adjustment, the plan was not sent out to the market for alternatives. Other vision networks do not include Walmart Vision Centers, which are widely utilized by employees, making Davis Vision the preferred option. Premium adjustment details were provided separately.
Open enrollment concluded today. Teams visited all school system locations and distributed benefit statements to over 1,200 employees. In addition to on- site visits, an on- line enrollment effort was conducted, and for the first time (excluding COVID years), online participation exceeded on- site visits. On-site visits had very low turnout, with ap- proximately three employees attending, likely due to minimal plan changes.
4. Consider and take action with respect to adopting a resolution providing for canvassing the returns and declaring the re- sults of the special election held in the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, for school purposes, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, to authorize the re- newal of a sales and use tax therein. (Mr. Jason Akers of Foley & Judell, L.L.P.)
On behalf of Mr. Jason Akers of Foley & Judell, L. L. P., Mrs. Voisin reported that the Board canvassed the returns of the election held last month to renew the 0.45 percent sales tax for the School Board. The election passed with 2,598 votes in favor and 559 against, an approval rate of 82 percent. This renewal continues an existing tax, not a new one.
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve a resolution providing for canvassing the returns and declaring the results of the special election held in the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, for school purposes, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, to authorize the re- newal of a sales and use tax therein as presented by Mrs. Voisin.
The floor was opened for public comments; hearing none, the motion was carried.
Motion made by: Rhonda Dennis
Motion seconded by: Andrew Mancuso
Voting:
Guienzy Brent - Yes
Dr. Tammie Wilson - Yes
Lindsey Anslem - Yes
Debra Jones - Yes
Marilyn LaSalle - Yes
Alaina Black - Yes
Andrew Mancuso - Yes
Rhonda Dennis - Yes
Lawrence Guillory - Yes
The motion passed with nine (9) votes in favor, zero (0) votes against, and two (2) members ab- sent.
5. Consider and take action with respect to adopting an ordinance providing for the levy in the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, of a 0.45% sales and use tax for school purposes, such tax having been authorized at a special election held in the Parish on Saturday, October 11, 2025. (Mr. Jason Akers of Foley & Judell, L.L.P.)
On behalf of Mr. Jason Akers of Foley & Judell, L.L.P., Mrs. Voisin reported that the proposed ordinance satisfies the statutory requirement to levy the 0.45 percent sales tax recently renewed by voters. The ordinance has been reviewed and verified by the parish sales tax collector and will ensure uninterrupted tax collections. Adoption of the ordinance requires a majority vote of the Board.
The floor was opened for public comments; hearing none, the motion was carried.
Motion made by: Dr. Tammie Wilson
Motion seconded by: Debra Jones
Voting:
Guienzy Brent - Yes
Dr. Tammie Wilson - Yes
Lindsey Anslem - Yes
Debra Jones - Yes
Marilyn LaSalle - Yes
Alaina Black - Yes
Andrew Mancuso - Yes
Rhonda Dennis - Yes
Lawrence Guillory - Yes
The motion passed with nine (9) votes in favor, zero (0) votes against, and two (2) members ab- sent.
6. Authorize the superintendent to negotiate a Memorandum of Understanding with the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office to allow for the im- plementation of the Futures Project. (Chief Deputy Kahl, St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office)
Chief Deputy John Kahl, accompanied by Lieutenant Oscar West, presented an overview of the Rural Violent Crime Suppression Initiative. This program began several years ago through a three-year grant aimed at addressing violent crime in rural areas, with a focus on juveniles who were identified as the primary source of such crimes. Rather than relying solely on en- forcement and incarceration, the initiative emphasized intervention and rehabilitation using the Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) model. Lieutenant West, certified in TBRI, played a key role in implementing the program. After the grant ended, the Sheriff’s Office continued funding the initiative due to its success. The juvenile court judge reported an estimated 20% reduction in juvenile cases, attributing this improvement to the program. The initiative teaches conflict resolution, effective communication, and strategies to avoid criminal activity. Additionally, the team identified gaps in school-based programming, such as restrictions on addressing issues like vaping, and plans to expand efforts to meet community needs. The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to growing this program to further reduce juvenile crime and strengthen community partnerships.
A motion was made and duly seconded to authorize the superintendent to negotiate a Memorandum of Understanding with the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office to allow for the implementation of the Futures Project, as presented by Chief Deputy Kahl of the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Motion made by: Dr. Tammie Wilson
Motion seconded by: Guienzy Brent
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
VIII. Committee Reports
1. Discuss to set date and time for Policy Committee Meeting. (Mr. Mancuso)
A joint meeting was scheduled for the Discipline Committee and Policy Committee to address shared responsibilities regarding discipline policy (JD). The joint meeting will be held on December 1 at 5:30 p.m., followed immediately by the Policy Committee meeting. Both agendas will be noted for the same time, with the joint session expected to be brief before transitioning to the policy discussion.
IX. Staff Reports
1. Chief Financial Officer’s Report (Mrs. Voisin)
A. Sales Tax Update
Mrs. Voisin re- ported that four months into the fiscal year, year-to-date sales tax collections are 7 percent below budget. For October, collections totaled $2.256 million, which is $83,000 under the monthly budget.
B. Financial Statements (Major Funds Only)
The Board was provided financial statements for major funds only to review at their leisure.
C. Other Significant Items
There were no other significant items for discussion.
X. Superintendent’s Report (Dr. Sanders)
Dr. Sanders’ re- port included the following:
• The Special Education Department was commended by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) for equitable evaluation processes.
• The Special Olympics bowling event was successfully hosted, with strong community participation.
• Veterans Day will be honored across all schools with individual celebrations.
• Flags flown at half-staff per federal order for former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney.
• Progress re- ports were issued; parents were encouraged to collaborate with schools with any concerns regarding progress reports.
• SPS accountability scores for 2024–2025 expected soon; press release forthcoming.
• Certified staff stipends ($2,000) and support staff stipends ($1,000) will be distributed on December 12, 2025, per the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) guidelines, which can be found in the St. Mary Parish School Board salary schedule, “Gold Book”.
• Volleyball Playoffs: Berwick High, Centerville High, and Morgan City High participated in the playoff rounds.
Football Playoffs: Centerville High, West St. Mary, and Franklin High will advance to the BID District round of playoffs tomorrow night.
• Student athletes are preparing for state meets in cross-country and swimming, scheduled for next week.
• Thanksgiving break Nov. 24–28; all schools and offices closed.
XI. Resolution of Respect (Ms. Estay)
Ms. Estay read the Resolutions of Respect for the late Jacquelyn Pontiff (retired business manager), and Roland Verret (retired teacher, principal, supervisor, and board member).
XII. Executive Session
1. Consider entering into executive session, pursuant to La. R.S. 42:17(A)(2), to discuss the status and strategy in the matter of Ryan Westley v. St. Mary Parish School Board, Suit No. 37575, Division B, 16th JDC, Parish of St. Mary. (Mrs. Black)
A motion was made and duly seconded to enter into the executive session to discuss the status and strategy in the matter of Ryan Westley v. St. Mary Parish School Board, Suit No. 37575, Division B, 16th JDC, Parish of St. Mary, as described above.
Motion made by: Lindsey Anslem
Motion seconded by: Debra Jones
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
Return to Regular Session:
Motion made by: Marilyn LaSalle
Motion seconded by: Debra Jones
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
2. Consideration of any action related to the matter of Ryan Westley v. St. Mary Parish School Board, Suit No. 37575, Division B, 16th JDC, Parish of St. Mary. (Mrs. Black)
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve legal counsel’s recommendation re- garding the matter of Ryan Westley v. St. Mary Parish School Board, Suit No. 37575, Division B, 16th JDC, Parish of St. Mary as discussed in executive session.
Motion made by: Andrew Mancuso
Motion seconded by: Lawrence Guillory
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
XIII. Closing - Adjournment (Mrs. Black)
With there being no further business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:47 p.m.
Motion made by: Lindsey Anslem
Motion seconded by: Guienzy Brent
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
RESOLUTION
IN MEMORIAM OF
Jacquelyn
Pontiff
WHEREAS, Al- mighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has taken from our midst Jacquelyn Pontiff, and
WHEREAS, her untimely death has deprived the St. Mary Parish School System of a retired business manager and a fine citizen;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish School Board and the people attending this Board meeting, rise and bow our heads in silent prayer out of re- spect for the late Jacquelyn Pontiff, and extend to her bereaved family our sincere condolences in this, their hour of sorrow; and in these inadequate words, endeavor to express the high regard in which we held her in life and honor her memory in death.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED that a copy of this resolution be inscribed on a separate page of the official proceedings of this meeting; that a copy of this resolution be sent to the be- reaved family of Jacqueline Pontiff, and that this meeting adjourns out of respect for her.
This Resolution was therefore de- clared approved and adopted this 13th of November, 2025.
(S) Alaina L. Black
ALAINA L. BLACK,
PRESIDENT
ATTEST:
(S) Rachael C. Sanders, Ed. D.
RACHAEL C. SANDERS, Ed. D.,
Acting/Interim Secretary
RESOLUTION
IN MEMORIAM OF
Roland Verret
WHEREAS, Al- mighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has taken from our midst Roland Verret, and
WHEREAS, his untimely death has deprived the St. Mary Parish School System of a retired teacher, principal, supervisor, board member, and a fine citizen;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RE- SOLVED that the St. Mary Parish School Board and the people attending this Board meeting, rise and bow our heads in silent prayer out of respect for the late Roland Verret, and extend to his bereaved family our sincere condolences in this, their hour of sorrow; and in these inadequate words, en- deavor to express the high regard in which we held him in life and honor his memory in death.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED that a copy of this resolution be inscribed on a separate page of the official proceedings of this meeting; that a copy of this resolution be sent to the be- reaved family of Roland Verret, and that this meeting adjourns out of respect for him.
This Resolution was therefore de- clared approved and adopted this 13th of November, 2025.
(S) Alaina L. Black
ALAINA L. BLACK,
PRESIDENT
ATTEST:
(S) Rachael C. Sanders, Ed. D.
RACHAEL C. SANDERS, Ed. D.,
Acting/Interim Secretary
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Special Meeting of St. Mary Parish School Board
11/10/2025 05:30 PM
Evans Medine Meeting Room
474 Hwy 317, Centerville, LA 70522
MEETING MINUTES
—————
Attendance
—————
Voting Members
Guienzy Brent, Board Member
Tammie Moore, Board Member - Vice President
Lindsey Anslem, Board Member
Debra Jones, Board Member
Ginger Griffin, Board Member
Marilyn LaSalle, Board Member
Chad Paradee, Board Member
Alaina Black, Board Member - President
Andrew Mancuso, Board Member
Rhonda Dennis, Board Member
Lawrence Guillory, Board Member
—————
I. Meeting Called to Order (Mrs. Black)
The meeting was called to order by Mrs. Black.
1. Roll Call (Dr. Sanders)
Dr. Sanders conducted the roll call.
II. Opening of Regular Meeting
The St. Mary Parish School Board met in special session on November 10, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., in the Evans Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex in Centerville, Louisiana for the following purposes and to take whatever actions necessary. The meeting may be viewed online at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnZ1z15loF_FZnVcBe09cRQ
1. Invocation (Ms. Estay)
Ms. Estay gave the Invocation.
2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America (Mrs. Black)
President Black led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
3. Consider entering into executive session, pursuant to La. R.S. 42:17(A)(1), to discuss the Superintendent’s request for medical leave,
Before entering the Executive Session, the floor was opened for public comments. Hearing none, a motion was made and duly seconded to enter into executive session pursuant to La. R.S. 42:17(A)(1), to discuss the Superintendent’s request for medical leave.
Motion made by: Andrew Mancuso
Motion seconded by: Marilyn LaSalle
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
Return to Regular Session:
A motion was made and duly seconded to return to regular session.
Motion made by: Andrew Mancuso
Motion seconded by: Tammie Moore
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
4. Consideration of any action related to Superintendent’s request for medical leave,
Action Taken After Executive Session:
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve the superintendent’s request for medical leave.
Motion made by: Andrew Mancuso
Motion seconded by: Debra Jones
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
The floor was opened for public comments. Hearing none, the motion carried.
5. Consider temporarily assigning the duties of superintendent to the Assistant-Superintendent (if needed).
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve the resolution temporarily assigning the duties of Superintendent to Dr. Rachael Sanders, Assistant Superintendent of Operations, with a monthly stipend of $4,000 and an additional $1,000 car allowance during the acting Superintendent’s assignment.
Motion made by: Lawrence Guillory
Motion seconded by: Debra Jones
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
The floor was opened for public comments. Hearing none, the motion carried.
III. Closing - Adjournment (Mrs. Black)
With there being no further business to discuss, the meeting was ad- journed at 6:17 p.m.
Motion made by: Tammie Moore
Motion seconded by: Guienzy Brent
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
HOME RULE CHARTER
REVISION
COMMISSION
MEETING
MINUTES
OCTOBER 16, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
6:00 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter Revision Commission met on this date with the following members present: Dr. Gary Wiltz, John Higdon, Jeremy Chesteen, John Armato, Norbert Wanous, Betty Hicks, Kenneth Perry, Jr., John Trevino, Sr., and Barry Dufrene. Absent were Mayor Clarence Vappie and Edward M. Leonard, Jr.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Trevino and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Dufrene.
Mr. Perry moved that the reading of the Regular Meeting, September 18, 2025 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Wanous seconded the motion, which carried.
Josh Manning, Senior Planner, South-Central Planning & Development Commission appeared before the Commission to discuss and review St. Mary Parish Policies, present ballot summary/summaries, and public information excerpts. He stated that decisions need to be made tonight in order to present the ballot summaries at the next meeting.
Cullen Curole, Attorney, South Central Planning & Development Commission ap- peared before the Commission to discuss the cost of living increase index. He submitted a packet relative to the salary and calculation adjustment for the Parish President and Council Members relative to the cumulative percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U), South Region as published by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) over the full four year period preceding the new term. He stated that the Finance Director shall certify the computation at the end of the third year and publish the resulting salary prior to the commencement of the new term.
Discussion was had relative to the Parish President’s salary never going below the proposed $125,000 annual salary if the CPI goes down.
Mr. Curole ex- pounded on Section 2-05 and Section 2-05B Compensation.
After discussion, Mr. Dufrene made a motion to include the CPI for the Parish President and also include language for reimbursement of ex- penses to perform official duties of the Parish President, Section 2-05B. Mr. Perry seconded the mo- tion.
In response to Rodney Olander, Council Member District No. 3, in- quiry relative to how the salary increase would be calculated, discussion was had relative to whether it would be an average of the four (4) year term or a combination of the four year term.
Several Commission Members discussed what a fair Consumer Price Index (CPI) would be and how it would be calculated.
After discussion, Mr. Dufrene amended his motion to include an average CPI of the four (4) years and applying it to the next incoming Parish President and Council Members. Mr. Perry seconded the motion.
After further discussion, Mr. Dufrene withdrew his original motion.
After lengthy discussion, Mr. Dufrene moved that the Parish President and Parish Council Members’ salary increase be based upon an average CPI of the four (4) years and is applied to the next incoming Parish President and Council Members. Mr. Perry seconded the motion, which carried. Mr. Higdon voted no.
Mr. Curole submitted one (1) op- tion that he suggests and two (2) options that Mr. Dufrene suggests relative to Section 3-02 for the Parish President’s term limit.
Clerk of the Council, Lisa Morgan, read all three (3) options relative to Section 3-02 for the Parish President’s term limit into the record.
Several Commission Members stated that the Parish President’s term limits and the Council Members’ term limits should line up with each other and be the same. They also discussed how previous terms would carry over into the revised Charter.
Mr. Olander suggested to keep the term limits as is and not change it.
In response to Mr. Olander’s in- quiry, Legal Counsel, Morgan Guillory Bodin stated that the Commission wants to count terms served and bring forward with new Charter. She stated that both of Mr. Du- frene’s options are verbatim to what is currently in the Charter, the only amendment is the last sentences on both options.
After lengthy discussion, Mr. Dufrene moved to adopt Option 2, “The president shall be elected at large from and by the qualified electors of the Parish according to the election laws of the state for a four (4) year term. A person who has served as president for more than one and one-half terms in two consecutive terms shall not be elected president for the succeeding term. This provision to apply retroactive and be applicable to the currently seated president at the effective date of this provision.” Mr. Armato seconded the motion, which carried.
After discussion, Dr. Wiltz moved that the Council Members’ term limits be 1 ½ terms. Mr. Perry seconded the motion, which carried.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Referred from September 18, 2025 - Discussion and action relative to the Parish President’s and Council Members’ term limits.
This item was included in the earlier discussion.
B. Discussion and action relative to the addressed changes to the “proposed work in progress St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter.”
Mr. Chesteen stated that he was a member on the Home Rule Charter Committee in 2018 and that the salary propositions failed back then. He stated that his opinion is to present a few separate/individual propositions and not one (1) whole proposition.
Several Commission Members discussed the importance of informing the voters. They also discussed election dates.
Mr. Olander stated if it is presented as one (1) proposition and the voter does not like one (1) item in that proposition and votes no, it will fail. He asked the commission to consider presenting separate propositions and the option for voters to choose a salary amount.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Discussion and action to finalize the new St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter prior to December 2025, meet the deadline, and allow South Central Planning & Development Commission to complete necessary changes.
Mr. Manning stated that he will present a draft to the Commission at their next month’s meeting.
Mrs. Hicks informed that the next meeting will be held on November 20, 2025.
There being no further business, Mr. Trevino moved for adjournment. Mr. Perry seconded the motion, which carried.
———————
Kenneth Perry, Jr.,
Secretary
———————
Betty Hicks,
Chairperson
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
HOME RULE CHARTER
REVISION
COMMISSION
MEETING
MINUTES
NOVEMBER 20, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
6:00 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter Revision Commission met on this date with the following members present: Mayor Clarence Vappie, Dr. Gary Wiltz, Jeremy Chesteen, Edward M. Leonard, Jr., Norbert Wanous, Betty Hicks, Kenneth Perry, Jr., and Barry Du- frene. Absent were John Higdon, John Armato, and John Trevino, Sr.
The Invocation was pronounced by Dr. Wiltz and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Vappie.
Judge Leonard moved that the reading of the Regular Meeting, October 16, 2025 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Dufrene seconded the motion, which carried.
Josh Manning, Senior Planner, South Central Planning & Development Commission appeared be- fore the Commission to finalize the St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter. He submitted a red line version and a clean line version to the Commission to review and compare recommendations/changes. He also submitted a summary of all the recommendations/changes.
Several Commission Members thanked South Central Planning for their help.
Peter Soprano, former two (2) term At-Large Councilman, appeared before the Commission and expounded on reasons At-Large representatives are important for citizens. He is concerned that eliminating the three (3) At-Large Members and presenting the proposed changes as one (1) proposition will fail by the voters. He also stated that he was a Councilman when the Unified Development Code (UDC) was adopted and voted against it. He stated it was done to lawfully keep hazardous plants out of St. Mary Parish but that it has created changes to planning & zoning requirements.
Patrick Hebert, St. Mary Parish Councilman for District No. 6, ap- peared before the Commission with concerns relative to the timing and cost of this election. He stated that single item ballots in the past failed and is concerned that presenting this as one (1) proposition. He also stated other concerns are de- creasing the number of Council Districts and changing Council term limits, which will result in allowing only two (2) Council Districts to be eligible to run for re-election (Districts 4 & 7).
In response to Mrs. Hicks’ inquiry relative to why the Council re- quested to create a commission to re- vise the Home Rule Charter if there was a funding issue, Mr. Hebert stated that he asked the Council not to do it. He also stated that he has presented several individual items to the Council to appear on a ballot of a scheduled election with little cost to the Parish but it failed by the Council’s vote.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Discussion and action to finalize the new St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter prior to December 2025.
Mr. Dufrene moved to send the propositions to the Parish Council. Mr. Perry seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Dufrene stated that there were only two (2) items that the Commission did not unanimously vote on. He stated that he is willing to give the people of St. Mary Parish an opportunity to vote on the propositions and if they do not agree they will continue with the current charter.
Several Commission Members expounded on recommendations that will benefit the Parish and asked for the Council’s and citizens’ support.
Mayor Vappie offered a moment of silence in memory of Althamus Pellerin, Jr., father of Roshonda Bourgeois, Assistant Clerk of the Council.
There being no further business, Judge Leonard moved for adjournment. Mr. Perry seconded the motion, which carried.
———————
Kenneth Perry, Jr.,
Secretary
———————
Betty Hicks,
Chairperson
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING REPORT
NOVEMBER 19, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
5:30 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: Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., and Mark Duhon. Absent were Rev. Craig Mathews, J Ina, Leslie Rulf, Jr., 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:
The St. Mary Parish Council presents for consideration the following combined 2026 Budget:
Estimated be- ginning balance 1/1/26, $16,473,503
Anticipated Revenues:
3100. Taxes, 11,377,000
3200. Licenses & Permits, 761,250
3300. Intergovernmental Revenue, 7,664,840
3400. Fees, Charges & Commissions for Services, 8,070,400
3600. Use of Money & Property, 135,750
3700. Miscellaneous Revenues, 189,400
3800. Other Financing Sources, 7,941,340
TOTAL ANTICIPATED REVENUES:, 36,139,980
TOTAL FUNDS AVAILABLE, 52,613,483
Anticipated Ex- penditures:
4000. General Government, 11,574,677
4100. Public Safety, 3,906,757
4200. Public Works, 6,571,620
4300. Health & Welfare, 1,074,687
4500. Culture & Recreation, 1,015,898
4750. Debt Service, 4,318,807
4850. Other Financing Uses, 8,496,000
TOTAL ANTICIPATED EXPENDITURES, 36,958,446
FUND BALANCE ENDING, $15,655,037
There were no written and/or oral comments received regarding the Combined 2026 Budget.
In response to Mr. Hill’s inquiry relative to the Advisory Budget Finance Committee’s recommendation to remove the Wax Lake East Sewer System Im- provements line item out of the 2026 Proposed Budget, budgeted at $500,000, Wards 5 & 8 area, Fund 125, Chief Administrative Officer Paul Governale stated that it was a recommendation to the Council and will be up for adoption at the December 10, 2025 meeting.
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. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
Standard Mortgage Corporation
Vs. No. 139847 Div “C”
The Unopened Succession of Claudell Jason Miles
TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Order of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 16th Judicial District Court, in and for the Parish of St. Mary, and to me directed, in the above numbered and entitled suit, I have seized the following mentioned and described property, to wit:
THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND, together with all buildings and improvements thereon situated and the component parts thereon and all rights, ways, privileges, prescriptions and servitudes thereto belonging or in anywise appertaining and all appurtenances thereof, lying and being situated in Morgan City, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, being known and designated and des-cribed as the West Half (W/2) of Lot 1 of Square 74 of the Bourgeois Subdivision as shown on a plat drawn by S. A. Bradford, C. E. & City Surveyor dated and recorded June 10, 1910 in St. Mary Parish COB 3-B, page 244, Entry No. 38,853.
to satisfy the sum of NINETY EIGHT THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED SIXTY NINE AND 61/100 ($98,469.61) DOLLARS, with 6.250% percent interest thereon from March 1, 2025, until paid, together with accumulated late charges, any additional amounts which petitioner has advanced or hereafter advances, as permitted by the Note and Mortgage, for taxes, insurance, assessments, repairs to and maintenance and preservation of the mortgaged property, together with reasonable attorney’s fees on the total amount of principal, interest and all current or future advances, and all costs of this proceedings, as well as all sheriff’s costs and commission
All successful bidders must have cash, cashier’s check or a verifiable letter of credit in favor of said bidder from a solvent bank, savings and loan association or other such financial institution authorized to do business in the state of Louisiana and full payment must be made on the date of sale. Letter must state that money is available on the date of sale.
I shall expose the same at public sale, for Cash, according to law WITHOUT ap- praisement to the last and highest bidder, at the principal front door of the 1st floor lobby area of the Court House in the Parish of St. Mary, Town of Franklin, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 21st 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.
Monday, the 6th day of October A.D., 2025
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025 and Jan. 14, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE
PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
NOVEMBER 19, 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: Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi P. Rink, M.D. Absent were Rev. Craig Mat-hews, J Ina, and Leslie Rulf, Jr.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Olander and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Hill.
Mr. Olander moved that the reading of the First Regular Meeting, November 12, 2025 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Paul Rappmundt, Chairman of Consolidated Gravity Drainage District No. 2A appeared before the Council to give an update. He submitted the status report on Pump Station No. 4 relative to the GIS CPRA Project. He also expounded on Pump Station No. 6 and Pump Station No. 8, finances, pump rentals, capacity, refurbishing of pumps, and cooling issues with the Caterpillar engine. He stated that cleanup of the offices has begun and that some things will be sent to Patterson and Franklin archives. He also stated that file cabinets where maps were kept were already emptied and dumped upon arrival and that he has pictures to show the condition of how it was found. He stated that he was informed of a book with all of the resolutions that exist but it has not been located. He stated that the audit will be used to help with any accounting issues and that they will work with Whitney Bank regarding bond money/bond account.
In response to Mr. Hebert’s inquiry, Mr. Rappmundt expounded on the status of Pump Station No. 9.
Mr. Duhon stated that the two (2) 60 inch pumps were cut in pieces and one (1) pump in Amelia needs to be brought on as soon as the lay down yard is ready. He stated that two (2) generators were purchased for Pump Station No. 9 until the City of Morgan City can come online with the electricity.
Mrs. Hidalgo moved up Item 13A, “Resolution of Respect in memory of Hon. Cliff Dressel.”
Mr. Adams mov-ed that the following Resolution be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Mat-hews, Ina, and Rulf
RESOLUTION OF RESPECT
WHEREAS, the Lord Almighty in His Infinite mercy and goodness has seen fit to remove from our midst, former Clerk of Court Honorable Clifford G. “Cliff” Dressel, and
WHEREAS, in 1965, he began his remarkable public service career with the St. Mary Parish Clerk of Court’s Office as a Deputy Clerk, was later appointed Chief Deputy Clerk in August 1969, and was elected Clerk of Court in July 1984, and
WHEREAS, his exceptional dedication, professionalism, and leadership guided his office and served the people of St. Mary Parish faithfully for a total of 59 years, having been elected to 10 consecutive terms as Clerk of Court, an extraordinary record of service, and
WHEREAS, during his tenure, Honorable Dressel earned the respect of his peers across Louisiana and was deeply honored to be the only Clerk of Court in Louisiana history to serve two terms as President of the Louisiana Clerks of Court Association, and
WHEREAS, his life was defined by a steadfast commitment to integrity, public service, compassion, and amazing values that impacted Franklin, and
WHEREAS, the members of the St. Mary Parish Council wish to acknowledge publicly their sorrow and sympathy to the family of Honorable Dressel, 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 19th day of November 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
Glynn Pellerin, Water & Sewer Commission No. 3 Board Member, appeared before the Council to discuss a Resolution authorizing the St. Mary Parish Council to request Water and Sewer Commission No. 3 to rescind their action regarding employee’s insurance after they retire. He stated that it is listed in the handbook and that their budget can afford to offer this to their retiree employees. He ex- pounded on reasons the board decided to offer this to employees and also expounded on qualifications, cost, budget, and current conditions of pumps.
Becky Soprano, Water & Sewer Commission No. 3 Administrator, ex- pounded on their retiree requirements as per Section 11. She stated that they have contacted the Human Resource Department, the Chief Administrative Officer, and Legal Counsel to make sure the verbiage complies with parish ordinances.
Mr. Adams stated that when the consolidation ordinance was adopted every board had to adopt the Parish’s personnel handbook. Mrs. Soprano stated that part of the ordinance stated that any benefits offered could not exceed the Parish employees’ benefits.
In response to Mr. Olander’s in- quiry, Chief Ad- ministrative Officer, Paul Governale, stated that an ordinance was passed approximately 27 years ago for Parish re- tirees and that the intent was to re- tain employees be- cause the Parish was not and still is not able to offer large salaries. He explained that the retirees insurance benefit is not part of the personnel policy, it is a separate ordinance.
Leonard Klutts, Water & Sewer Commission No. 3 Vice Chairman stated that out of 12 employees, two (2) have been em- ployed for more than 10 years. He expounded on reasons the board decided to offer this to employees and stated that they have been trying to hire a qualified supervisor for 8 years.
Mr. Olander stated that commission employees were not promised retiree healthcare when they were hired and that the Parish cannot afford to provide it.
Discussion was had relative to required certifications for employees, maintaining water loss, cost of future projects, their budget, and employee retention.
After discussion, Mr. Olander re- quested to move up Item 13B, “Resolution authorizing the St. Mary Parish Council to request Water and Sewer Commission No. 3 rescind their action regarding employee’s insurance.”
Mr. Olander moved that Item 13B, “A Resolution authorizing the St. Mary Parish Council to request Water and Sewer Commission No. 3 rescind their action regarding employee’s insurance be adopted.” Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which failed by the following 5-3-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Hebert, Davis, and Duhon
NAYS: Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Ina, Rulf, and Mathews
Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, submitted his re- port for a one (1) week period, ending November 19, 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, and GIS.
Mr. Adams mov-ed that the Advisory Budget/Finance Committee Report, November 12, 2025 – 5:00 p.m., the Public Hearing Report, November 12, 2025 – 5:45 p.m., and the Public Hearing Report – November 12, 2025 – 5:50 p.m. be approved. Dr. Rink seconded the mo- tion, which carried.
12A Dr. Rink introduced the following Ordinance:
ORDINANCE
NO.
Ordinance amending and re-enacting Ordinance No. adopting the 2025 Combined Budgets of Revenues and Expenditures for the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OF- FICE
Mr. Adams moved that the following Resolution be adopted. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Rulf, Mathews, and Ina
RESOLUTION
Resolution ap- proving and authorizing the Parish President to execute Task Order No. 6 of the MSA with Quality Engineering & Surveying, LLC dated April 12, 2023, relative to St. Mary Parish Hazard Mitigation Plan Update.
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 Task Order No. 6 of the MSA with Quality Engineering & Surveying, LLC dated April 12, 2023, relative to St. Mary Parish Hazard Mitigation Plan Update, with said task order 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 19th day of November 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
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Consolidated Gravity Drainage District No. 1 (Iberia/St. Mary Parish Line to Wax Lake Outlet)
Junius P. He- bert, Jr. – Present Member , Craig A. Pellerin – Present Member
Mr. Olander moved that Junius P. Hebert, Jr. and Craig A. Pellerin be reappointed to Consolidated Gra- vity Drainage District No. 1. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 1 (Amelia/Siracusa) – 2 Vacancies
Carla Gagliano – Present Member, Charles “Chuck” Walters – Present Member, Rose Johnson
Mr. Duhon mov-ed that Rose Johnson be appointed to Water & Sewer Commission No. 1. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried. Mr. Duhon requested that Rose Johnson re- place Carla Gagliano’s vacancy.
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. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice posted December 9, 2025
9:00 A.M.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
MEETING
A public meeting will be held as follows:
Date: December 11, 2025
time: 6:00 P.M.
Place: Siracusa Recreation Building
1110 Grace St. Morgan City, La. 70380
AGENDA:
Call to Order
Invocation
Roll Call
Guest
Approval of Minutes
Financial Report
OLD BUSINESS
Christmas Dinner 2025
NEW BUSINESS:
Approval of bills for payment
Adjournment
———————
Ann Poole,
Chairperson
St Mary Parish Recreation District #2
1110 Grace St. Morgan City, La. 70380
——
RECREATION DISTRICT #2 ST MARY PARISH
1110 GRACES ST * P.O. BOX 922
MORGAN CITY, LA. 70381
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
RECREATION DISTRICT #2
1110 GRACE ST
MORGAN CITY, LA. 70380
6:00 P.M.
NOV.13, 2025
Meeting of The Board of Commissioners of Recreation District was called to order by Ms. Ann Poole, Chairperson. Invocation was given by Ms. Nelda Dural. Members present were Ann Poole, Norma Skinner David McQuire, Nelda Dural and Tracy Wilson via telephone. Others present were Mr. Leroy Trim, Director. Absent — None
Minutes from October 9th, 2025 meeting was submitted for review by all board members present. After a brief discussion, a motion was made by Nelda Dural, and second by David McQuire, that the minutes be received and adopted with any necessary corrections; if any.
Yeas: Ann Poole, Nelda Dural, Norma Skinner, Tracy Wilson and David McGuire
Nays: None
The Districts’ financial report was submitted by Mr. Leroy Trim. Mr. Trim stated that under the deficit, an additional $25,000.00 has been received from the grant, while another $25,000.00 is still pending. Meanwhile, that will be a total of $50,000.00, that has been deposited into our operating account and $25,000.00 have been transferred into our capital funds account. Trim states, there’s still a final payment of $25,000.00 pending from grant funding.
In lieu of the financials, Mr. Trim submitted to the board a copy of the bank reconciliation and electronic transfer sheets for review. After discussion, a mo- tion was made by Tracy Wilson and second by Nelda Dural to approve the financial re- port, with any necessary corrections; if any. The motion was approved un- animously, with 4 yeas and o nays that the report be accepted.
Yeas: Ann Poole, Nelda Dural, Norma Skinner, Tracy Wilson and David McGuire
Nays: None
OLD BUSINESS:
Mr. Trim stated to the Board that the air condition work is completed; and Halloween Trunk or Treat activities was well attended by both children and parents and was carried out with no incident and/or accidents.
In further discussion, Ms. Skinner gave a follow up report on audit items involving the check mailing log, that had been put in place. She stated it was working well. Furthermore, Mr. Trim stated the Clavinova is on order, and is expected to be delivered next week.
NEW BUSINESS:
In further related new business, Mr. Trim presented to the Board of Commissioners of Recreation District No. 2 of St. Mary Parish, State of Louisiana, the en- gagement letter questionnaire letter for approval for the year 2026. After discussion and review of engagement by all board members present; a motion was made by Mr. David McGuire and second by Tracey Wilson to approve the en- gagement. Thereafter, Mrs. Poole reviewed and sign-ed, accordingly.
Yeas: Ann Poole, Nelda Dural, Norma Skinner, Tracy Wilson and David McGuire
Nays: None
Mrs. Poole submitted a copy of the district’s in- ventory to all board members present. Poole stated in the near further, she would like to have items verified by board members. However, Mr. Trim ex- plained the funding once again to the board; therefore, the board of commissioners stated due to funding, there will only be a Community Christmas Dinner, instead of a Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinner. After discussion, a motion was made by Nelda Dural and second by David McGuire. The motion was approve without opposition.
Yeas: Ann Poole, Nelda Dural, Norma Skinner, Tracy Wilson and David McGuire
Nays: None
Bills were re- viewed, compare to budget, and submitted for payment. A motion was made by Mr. David McGuire and second by Ms. Tracy Wilson to pay all bills that has been submitted for payment. The motion was approved unanimously.
Yeas: Ann Poole, Nelda Dural, Norma Skinner, Tracy Wilson and David McGuire
Nays: None
With no further business to discuss, a motion was made by Ms. Nelda Dural and second by Ms. Norma Skinner that meeting be adjourn.
(S) Ann Poole
Ann Poole,
Chairperson
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
RECREATION
DISTRICT #3
BAYOU VISTA COMMUNITY CENTER
1333 BELLVIEW STREET
P.O. BOX 635
PATTERSON, LA 70392
985-395-6552
The Board of Commissioners of the St. Mary Parish Recreation District #3 met in regular session on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the meeting room at the Bayou Vista Community Center.
Members Present: Brian Head – Chairman, Dr. Jeffery Fitter, Calvin Johnson, Rachel Kidder, Cody Fontenot
Members Absent: Lane Boudreaux – Vice Chairman, Eddie Gay
Employees of the District Present: Angie Guillotte – Office Manager, Mark Richard – Operations Manager, Lori Marcantonio – Activities Director
Secretary: Tyler Lambert
Guests: Erica Brunson – Berwick Biddy Basketball, Andrew Bienvenu – Patterson Biddy Basketball
Mr. Head called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Everyone present stood for the pledge of allegiance.
Mr. Head let The Board know that Lane Boudreaux provided notice for his absence from the meeting.
Mr. Head asked for a motion to amend the agenda to move new business item one up. A motion was made by Mr. Fontenot with a second from Mr. Johnson. All were in favor and the motion carried.
Erica Brunson and Andrew Bienvenu spoke to The Board and requested use of the gym for their respective biddy basketball leagues. After discussion, a motion was made by Mr. Fontenot that The Board enter a cooperative en- deavor with each league for use of the facility for games and practices. A second was made by Dr. Fitter. Ms. Kidder ab- stained from the vote as she has a child playing in one of the leagues. All others were in favor and the motion carried.
The Board re- viewed the minutes of the October meeting. Mrs. Kidder motioned to accept the minutes as written. Mr. Fontenot made a second to the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.
Board members reviewed the accounts payable report and the monthly budget comparison report. Dr. Fitter made a motion to accept the report as is and pay the bills. Mr. Johnson made a second to the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.
Office Manager, Angie Guillotte gave the community center report. She updated The Board on rental activities and the day-to-day operations of the community center.
Operations Manager, Mark Richard gave the manager/maintenance report. He updated The Board on the maintenance work being done by district employees at all district properties.
In new business, Mr. Head asked The Board for a motion to move the monthly December meeting from December 22, 2025, to December 15, 2025, due to the Christmas holidays. A motion was made to move the meeting by Mrs. Kidder with a second from Mr. Johnson. All were in favor and the motion carried.
With no further business to discuss, a motion to adjourn was made by Dr. Fitter. A second was made by Mr. Fontenot. All were in favor. The motion carried and the meeting was adjourned.
(s) Brian Head
Brian Head,
Chairman
(s) Tyler Lambert
Tyler Lambert,
Secretary
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF CHANGE OF BUSINESS NAME
To Whom It May Concern,
Please take notice that the business entity Teche Action Board, Inc., doing business as Teche Action
Clinic, has changed its assumed business name to Teche Health.
This change is effective as of December 2024.
The reason for this change is: Aligning the name with a comprehensive service provided.
All business and legal matters previously conducted under the old name are now handled under the new name. The company will continue to honor all existing contracts and commitments.
Previous name: Teche Action Board, Inc.
Previous As- sumed Business Name: Teche Action Clinic
New Assumed Business Name: Teche Health
Adv. Dec. 17, 19, 24, 26 and 31, 2025, and Jan. 2, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
SECTION A
INVITATION TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids for procurement of pumping equipment for the following project will be received by St. Mary Levee District at their office located at 7327 Hwy 182 E, Morgan City, LA 70380 until January 9, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the media room on the first floor at their office.
PROJECT NAME: CPRA Project No TE 168
Pump Station No. 9 Phase 1
Equipment Procurement, Delivery & Testing
LOCATED IN: St. Mary Parish, Louisiana
CONTRACTING AGENCY: St. Mary Levee District
7327 Hwy 182 E
Morgan City, LA 70380
PROPOSAL GUARANTY: 5% of the Amount of Bid
Payable to St. Mary Levee District
ENGINEER: GIS Engineering, LLC
Coastal Design & Infrastructure Division
197 Elysian Drive
Houma LA, 70363
Phone: (985) 219-1000
Contact: Ann Schouest
Email: bidquestions@gisy.com
SCOPE OF WORK: The scope of work for this project is to procure, deliver, and test all specified pumping equipment, electrical equipment, and appurtenances necessary to up- grade the pumping capacity at the existing Pump Station No. 9 for the St. Mary Levee District. This equipment in- cludes, but is not limited to, all submersible propeller pump units (pumps, motors, formed suction intakes, level transducers, junction boxes, dresser couplings & other requirements), pump controller, variable frequency drives, identification and labeling of electrical systems as specified, automatic transfer switches, switchboards, and all other specified electrical gear, analysis and studies as detailed in the technical specifications. All work must be performed in accordance with the contract documents.
Bid forms are available from the Engineer and will not be issued later than 24 hours prior to the time set for opening the bids. Each bid shall include a proposal guaranty in an amount not less than specified above.
The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder without discrimination on grounds of race, color, sex or national origin. Disadvantaged businesses will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids.
Plans and specifications may be seen at the Engineer’s office. Plans may be obtained from the Engineer upon payment of $75.00. In accordance with R.S. 38:2212 (D), deposits on the first set of documents furnished bona fide prime bidders will be fully refunded upon return of the documents, deposits on any additional sets will be refunded less the actual costs of re- production. Re- funds will be made upon return of the documents if within ten days after receipt of bids.
Bid documents are also posted on https://www.centralauctionhouse.com/Category/10279/StMaryLeveeDistrict. To view these, download, and receive bid notices by e-mail, you must register with Central Auction House (CAH). Vendors/Contractors have the op- tion to submit their bids electronically or by paper copy. For information about the electronic submittal process, contact Central Auction House at 225-810-4814.
A Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid meeting will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at the St. Mary Levee District Office, located at 7327 Hwy 182 E, Morgan City, LA. Site inspection trips for perspective Bidders are to be arranged through the office of the Engineer.
The award of a contract, if awarded, will be made to the lowest qualified bidder whose proposal complies with all requirements prescribed within 45 calendar days after opening proposals. However, when the contract is to be financed by bonds which are required to be sold after receipts of bids, or when the contract is to be financed in whole or part by federal or other funds not available at the time bids are received, the time will not start until receipt of federal and/or state concurrence or concurrence of the other funding source. Award will be within 30 calendar days after the sale of bonds or receipt of concurrence in award from federal and/or state agency or other funding source. The successful bidder will be notified by letter mailed to the address shown in the proposal that the bidder is awarded the contract.
On projects in- volving State funds the award of contract will also be contingent upon concurrence by the appropriate State agency, the Coastal Protection and Restoration Auth- ority (CPRA).
The right is reserved to reject bids and waive formalities.
Adv. Dec. 12, 19 and 26, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
“NOTICE TO ESTABLISH A BRANCH”
In the matter of the establishment of a branch of M C Bank and Trust Company. Notice is hereby given that the M C Bank and Trust Company, whose Main Office and Office and domicile is located in Morgan City, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, has made application to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Louisiana Commissioner of Financial Institutions to establish a branch to be located at 5400 Magazine Street, Suite 100, New Orleans, Orleans Parish, Louisiana.
Any person wishing to comment on this application may file his or comments, in writing, with the Regional Director (DOS) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at its Dallas Regional Office at 600 North Pearl Street, Suite 700 Dallas, Texas 75201, not later than January 12, 2026. The nonconfidential portion of the application is on file in the regional office and is available for inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the nonconfidential portion of the application file will be made available upon request.
Any person wishing to comment on this application with the Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions may file his or her comments, in writing, with the Commissioner of Financial Institutions, Post Office Box 94095, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70804-9095. The Office of Financial Institutions is not required to consider any comments received more than 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. The Public Section of the application will be available at the Office of Financial Institutions for public inspection during the regular business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
This notice is published pursuant to Part 303.7 of the Rules and Regulations of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and LAC 10: I. Chapter 5 of the “Louisiana Register”.
M C Bank & Trust Company
(Name of Institution)
1201 Brashear Ave., Morgan City, LA 70380
(Address)
By: Christopher LeBato
(President, CEO)
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
The St. Mary Parish Child Nu- trition Program Department is re- questing bids for a Tilting Skillet Braising Pan (Gas). Sealed bids will be accepted at the St. Mary Parish School Board, Child Nutrition Department until 9:00 a.m. January 16, 2026 at which time they will be opened and read out loud. The public is invited to attend.
Specifications may be obtained from the St. Mary Parish School Board, Child Nu- trition Program Department, P.O. Box 170, 474 Hwy 317, Centerville, Louisiana 70522 or by calling (337) 836-6039. Information is available online at www.centralauctionhouse.com.
No pre-bid conference will be held. Questions should be emailed to dchaisson@stmaryk12.net by January 6, 2026. Responses will be provided via email by January 9, 2026.
The St. Mary Parish School Board Child Nutrition Program is funded 92 percent with Federal funds for a total of ap- proximately $6,445,000 per year.
Adv. Dec. 17, 19 and 26, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed ordinance has been introduced for enactment by the City Council of Morgan City, Louisiana.
Said proposed ordinance provides for amending the Operating Budget for the Fiscal Year beginning January 1, 2025, and Ending December 31, 2025.
Copies of the proposed ordinance are available for inspection at City Hall and may be obtained by contacting the Administrative Secretary at 385-1770.
Notice is further given that a public hearing has been called for 6:00 PM, local time, on November 18, 2025, in the Court Room, City Court Building, Highway 182 East at Myrtle Street, Morgan City, Louisiana to receive and consider public input concerning said proposed ordinance.
/s/ Genie G.
Bonner
Genie G. Bonner
Administrative Secretary
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
This ordinance was introduced with first reading on November 18, 2025. Published by title on November 21, 2025.
Mr. Domangue offered the following ordinance, who moved for its adoption.
ORDINANCE
NUMBER 25-11
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MORGAN CITY, LOUISIANA TO AMEND AND REENACT ARTICLE V, MOSQUITO ABATEMENT, SECTION 50-131 TO PROVIDE FOR MOSQUITO ABATEMENT.
SECTION 1
BE IT ORDAIN-ED, by the City Council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City that Article V, Section 50-131 of the Code of Ordinances is amended and reenacted, said section to read as follows:
ARTICLE V – MOSQUITO ABATEMENT
Section 50-131
(1) In order to seek to control and abate mosquitoes and encephalitis or diseases carried by them, and in order to promote and protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the City of Morgan City, the City shall conduct a comprehensive mosquito abatement program encompassing the whole of the City of Morgan City. This program shall be conducted for the abatement, control, and study of mosquito and other arthropods of public health importance, and provide for all activities incidental thereto.
(2) The cost and expenses of the mosquito abatement program shall be funded by a service charge not to exceed four dollars $4.00 per month for each and every residential, business, commercial and industrial utility customer of the City unless changed by ordinance. The assessment shall be effective upon passage of this ordinance and shall be added to the monthly utility bill of every residential, business, commercial and industrial utility customer and shall be collected by the utility department. In accordance with the Louisiana law, failure to pay the mosquito abatement assessment shall result in a termination and cutoff of the water service.
(3) Any business, governmental entity, commercial or industrial utility customer within the City which receives service through a master meter shall be charged in accordance with the number of residents housed and receiving service off the master meter, provided that the business, governmental entity, commercial or industrial utility customers master meter services one hundred or more residents.
(4) The director of finance shall maintain mosquito abatement program accounts separate and apart from other City program accounts to provide an accounting for revenues and expenditures.
(5) The City of Morgan City shall provide mosquito abatement services or utilize the professional services of a mosquito abatement contractor. The City abatement program and/or abatement contractor through the mayor and council shall provide for a mosquito abatement program which considers the health, welfare, and safety of the citizens of Morgan City and is within the cost of the amount of funds generated and held within the mosquito abatement program account.
(6) This program for comprehensive mosquito abatement shall include some form of the spraying of pesticides as selected and approved by the mayor and council and recommended by the company or persons providing professional abatement services. If the City provides its own abatement program install and use products approved for use by the United States Government.
SECTION 2
Should any section, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase be declared unconstitutional or repealed for any reason, the remainder of the ordinance shall not be affected hereby. That all laws or parts of laws in conflict with this ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed. This ordinance shall take effect immediately after its passage within the time prescribed by law.
Mr. Hutchinson seconded the motion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Doman-gue, Hutchinson, Bias, Hymel, Leonard
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
Certified ap- proved and adopted this 16th day of December, 2025.
Delivered to Mayor Dragna at 9:00 am, this 17th day of December, 2025.
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
Approved this 17th day of December, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna
Mayor
Received from Mayor at 9:30 pm on December, 2025.
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF A REGULAR MEETING
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE MORGAN CITY HARBOR AND TERMINAL
DISTRICT
November 17, 2025
The Board of Commissioners (“Board”) of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (“District”) met in regular session at the District’s office at 7327 Highway 182, Morgan City, Louisiana on November 17, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. Deborah Garber, Vice-President, convened the meeting with Commissioners Steven Cornes, Marc Fel- terman, Matthew Glover, Troy Lombardo, Matthew Tycer and Michael Wise in attendance. Ben Adams and Adam Mayon were absent. Also present in the meeting were Raymond Wade, Executive Director; Cindy Cutrera, Economic Development Manager; Tori Henry, Office Manager; Michael Knobloch, Special Projects Manager; Gerard Bourgeois, Board Attorney; Robert Karam, T. Baker Smith; Bill Blanchard, GIS Engineering; and members of the general public.
The meeting was called to order, and the presence of a quorum was noted. Raymond Wade led the invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
It was moved by Mr. Lombardo and seconded by Mr. Tycer that the minutes of the regular meeting of October 20, 2025 be approved and adopted, with said motion carrying unanimously.
It was moved by Mr. Tycer that the report of receipts and disbursements for the month of October, 2025 be received and ac- cepted and that all invoices presented to the Board for the month of October, 2025 be paid. Mr. Wise seconded that motion, which carried unanimously.
Raymond Wade reported on behalf of Tim Connell that the current dredges under contract are Dredge Arulaq in the Bar Channel, Mike Hooks in Bayou Black/GIWW and Bayou Chene areas, RM White in Stouts Pass and Dredge Loraine, which is currently down for repairs. He also noted the Weeks Marine dredge contract for Atchafalaya Bay, Bar and Crewboat Cut is currently under protest.
Charles Brittingham reported the latest CR ex- pires on January 30th, which means all government functions are funded in the meantime. With respect to individual or a collection of appropriations bills, both Chambers are working to- wards passing “mini-bus” packages of bills between now and January 30th. Should Congress not pass any Energy & Water appropriations bill, then it would be CR’d until September 30th, 2026, spending would be at FY2024 levels and we would be okay.
Michael Knobloch reported that: (i) the new design for the roof replacement and insulation project are under way and will need to be submitted to the State for approval prior to advertising; (ii) we are working with Bollinger, Governor Landry and the Commissioner of Administration to move $35,000,000 of our capital outlay funding from P5 to P1 during the Spring Legislation; (iii) the AIC camera work is just about complete, with remaining funds to be used on Mr. Charlie and West Dock cameras; and (iv) the crane mats were delivered and the new crane will be delivered on December 8th, with the buckets and forklift to arrive in April.
Robert Karam reported that: (i) they are awaiting execution of MARAD’s agreement on the West Dock Project be- fore advertising for bid. Mr. Bourgeois noted an amendment to the engineering contract for bidding and construction administration will be brought up next month for approval.
Bill Blanchard reported that Coastal Dredging completed dredging at the end of October and Bollinger is currently negotiating the dredging quantities with them, while the access channel will be separated into a separate bid when FY26 capital outlay funding be- comes available.
Cindy Cutrera reported that: (i) she will be sending out her report to commissioners to- day which includes updates from leads at the Breakbulk Conference; and (ii) due to our website platform be- coming obsolete, we are very close to releasing our new website. But we wanted to show the new rolling banner that will be displayed ahead of the release.
Gerard Bourgeois suggested it may be time to review our strategic plan and Mrs. Garber offered Mr. Tycer as chairman to lead the strategic plan discussions of the Port.
With there being no further business to come before the Board, it was moved by Mr. Cornes and seconded by Mr. Tycer that the meeting was adjourned.
Attest:
———————
Matthew K.
Glover,
Secretary
Adv. Dec. 19, 2025

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Morgan City police radio logs for Dec. 17-18

Thu, 12/18/2025 - 9:33am

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, Dec. 17
7:06 a.m. U.S. 90 West near Wal-Mart; Assistance.
8:31 a.m. 700 block of Freret Street; Complaint.
9:23 a.m. 200 block of South Railroad Avenue; Medical.
9:45 a.m. 7000 block of La. 182; Welfare concern.
10:19 a.m. U.S. 90 West Downramp near Shoney; Vehicle accident.
10:47 a.m. 800 block of Clothilde Street; Animal complaint.
11:05 a.m. U.S. 90 East crest of bridge; Stalled vehicle.
11:17 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Lost and found property.
11:39 a.m. 300 block of Lizabeth Drive; Animal complaint.
12:17 p.m. 100 block of Montana Street; Animal complaint.
12:39 p.m. 1000 block of Ida Street; Missing juvenile.
1:19 p.m. 2000 block of La. 70; Subject removal.
1:44 p.m. 800 block of Sacred Heart Drive; Officer stand by.
1:48 p.m. 900 block of Railroad Avenue; Assistance.
1:51 p.m. 600 block of Main Street; Alarm.
2:17 p.m. 7000 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
2:47 p.m. La. 182/U.S. 90 Junction Down Ramp; Traffic incident.
3:15 p.m. 1000 block of Victor II Boulevard; Subject removal.
4:18 p.m. 800 block of Onstead Street; Alarm.
4:48 p.m. 1000 block of Victor II Boulevard; Stalled vehicle.
5:44 p.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Alarm.
6:15 p.m. 3200 block of Karen Drive; Removal of subject.
7:04 p.m. 700 block of David Drive; Medical.
7:52 p.m. Federal Avenue/Freret Street; Stalled vehicle.
8:20 p.m. Federal Avenue/Leona Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
9:12 p.m. 500 block of Leona Street; Animal complaint.
9:51 p.m. U.S. 90; Assistance.
10:27 p.m. Railroad Avenue/Headland Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
10:53 p.m. Railroad Avenue/Second Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
Thursday, Dec. 18
3:09 a.m. 3000 block of Lesley Drive; Alarm.

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Morgan City police radio logs for Dec. 17-18

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