Abbeville Meridional www.vermiliontoday.com Wednesday, April 7, 2021 Voice of Vermilion Parish - “The Most Cajun Place on Earth” - since 1856 • Vol. 165, No. 68, .75 cents , 1 section, • 10 pages Fusilier sworn in as new Erath alderman

He won’t have to wait long for his first meeting

By Chris Rosa Managing Editor

On the Vermilion Parish Courthouse’s steps, Clarence Fusilier was sworn in as the new alderman for the Erath City Council. What makes Fusilier’s swearing-in so special is because it was historic. He is Photo above: Clarence Fusilier now the first Erath black alderman. holds up his right hand and puts his His first meeting with the aldermen left hand on his own Bible for the and Mayor Taylor Mencacci is April 12. swearig in. Swearing him in is Ver- The swearing-in took place on the court- milion Parish Clerk of Court Diane house’s steps, with Vermilion Parish Clerk Meaux Broussard. The swearing in of Court Diane Meaux Broussard swearing took place on the steps of the Vermil- him in. ion Parish Courthouse in Abbeville. Also, there was Fusilier’s family, in- Holding the Bible is Kendra Fusili- cluding his brother Pastor Walter August. er, Fusilier’s daughter. Pastor Walter Fusilier won a special election last August, Clarence’s brother, also at- month. Fusilier beat opponent Chris He- tended. bert by only 11 votes. This was Fusilier’s second go-around with running for an alderman seat. He Photo on the left is Clarence Fusilier threw his name in the hat two years ago signing the official swearing in docu- and finished in sixth place when only five ments with Vermilion Parish Clerk could win. of Court Diane Meaux Broussard. The This election, Fusilier knocked on doors signing took place on a TV tray out- and went house to house in Erath and met side of the courthouse. everyone he could meet. “I ran because I wanted to help people,” said Fusilier. “I wanted to be a voice. A lot

(See SWORN, Page 2)

Whooping crane population slowly making comeback

2014, the LDWF spotted two nests. The nests found by the Once there were only 21, today there are 800 LDWF increased each year from two to five (2015) to 27 By Chris Rosa date on the comeback of the she said. nests in 2019. Managing Editor whooping crane Out of the 800 birds, 506 This LDWF recently In 1940 there were only were born in captivity. Others counted and learned 38 birds 21 whooping cranes left in were born in captivity. in south Louisiana began in The whooping crane popu- the United States. Six of the Vermilion Parish has played lation is making a comeback White Lake as a juvenile. 21 lived in Louisiana, and 15 a big part in the increase of the The biggest challenge Zi- in Louisiana and the United lived in Texas. whooping crane population. States, but it is a slow come- miriski said is getting an egg With humanity’s help over In 2011, the Louisiana Wild- to hatch in the wild. In seven back. the last 80 years, the whoop- life and Fisheries (LDWF) be- Sara Zimoriski, a biologist years, whooping cranes laid ing crane population has gan a reintroduction program 158 eggs but only 19 hatched. for the Louisiana Wildlife and slowly risen and continues to with the release of 10 juvenile Fisheries, is considered an ex- If battling Mother Nature increase. cranes in the White Lake area was not enough of a challenge pert in saving the whooping Today, according to Zimiris- near Gueydan. Each year, the crane on a national level. for the whooping crane, the ki, there are 800 whooping LDWF introduces more juve- whooping crane also has to A whooping crane is Zimiriski spoke to the Ab- cranes in the United States. nile cranes to the wild. 5 feet tall. beville Rotary to give an up- “That is better than 21,” The program is working. In (See CRANE, Page 2)

Should university officials be fired for not reporting sexual assault? ty’s failure to adequately Because of LSU’s handling of Les Miles, one house representative says yes fund an office that inves- tigates such complaints BATON ROUGE— push LSU hard to im- take some better steps islators are comfortable across the campus. The second-ranking Re- prove its handling of the internally to address the with,” Magee said. An outside law firm publican in the House complaints as it seeks problem,” Magee said in Magee, who is from hired by LSU document- said lawmakers may con- more funding from the an interview. Houma, made his com- ed the failures, and its sider requiring university state and from COVID-19 “I’m deeply concerned, ments in advance of a report prompted other officials to be terminated relief bills. and I think part of the Senate hearing on Thurs- universities to replace if they fail to report alle- “There are a whole lot problem is that there day on LSU’s mishan- gations of sexual assault. of things that are going to seems to be a hesitancy dling of sexual assault Tanner Magee, the make it difficult for LSU within LSU’s adminis- and rape allegations Rep. Tanner speaker pro tempore, also to get what they want tration to fully address against former football Magee said the Legislature will this year if they don’t it in a way that most leg- players and the universi- (See FIRED, Page 2)

Cloudy Hi 80 Lo 63

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W ed n es d ay , Ap ril 7, 2 02 1Page 2 Obituaries Wednesday, April 7, 2021Page

Priscilla Broussard April 1, 2021 at Leon- Angela Marceaux and Richard Broussard, Gus til time of services. A ro- Marceaux ard J. Chabert Medical Lurcy Marceaux, Jr.; Clostio, Edwina Brous- sary is being prayed at Center. She will be laid five grandchildren; sardone Hebert, Edwin 1:30 PM. November 24, 1949 to rest at St. Paul Cem- great grandchild; sib- Broussard, Percy Brous- Condolences may ~ April 1, 2021 etery. lings, Audrey Duhon sard, Adam "J B" Brous- be sent to the family at In her spare time she and her husband How- sard, Jane Henderson, www.vincentfuneral- ABBEVILLE — Me- loved to travel, cook and ard, Marie Martin, and Rosamae Abshire, Mar- home.net. morial services will read. She also enjoyed Leroy Broussard; and dia Mallett. All funeral ar- be held at 2:00 PM on music and musicals, numerous nieces and The family requests rangements are being Thursday, April 8, 2021 along with watching nephews. that visiting hours be conducted by Vincent at Vincent Funeral Westerns. She was preceded observed at Vincent Fu- Funeral Home of Abbev- Home - Abbeville honor- She is survived in death by her par- neral Home - Abbeville, ille, (337) 893-4661. ing the life of Priscilla by her husband of ents, Dewey Broussard 209 S. St. Charles St., Broussard Marceaux, 55 years, Lurcy J. and the former Adele on Thursday, April 8, 71, who died Thursday,Marceaux; two children, Touchet; and siblings. 2021 from 9:00 AM un-

Fusilier One of his first Sworn priorities is lifting the hous- ing authority homes in Erath off the La. 14 Bypass. The From Page 1 town received money to ele- vate the homes because they of times, people do not know flood for heavy rains. who they can talk to about an Whether to accept the issue. Now, they can come to grant money to elevate the me for help.” homes is in the hands of the A special election had to aldermen. be held because of the death “We need to raise the of Alderman Robert Vincent. homes because it has been Vincent and Fusilier were flooding since I lived there in good friends and he will fillthe 1970s,” Fusilier added. out Vincent’s two final years.

Killing a whooping crane Crane could be costly, she said. One judge a man from Acadian Parish to pay a From Page 1 $10,000 and $75,000 in - res titution to the Louisiana battle humankind, the same Department of Wildlife and species trying to save the Fisheries. He was also sen- bird from extinction. tenced to five years of proba- We are all advised to get yearly check-ups. Well, that holds true for our trees and tion and 360 hours of com- green spaces. It is important to maintain a good healthy oak tree with pruning Zimiriski gave a break- down of how each whooping munity service. and fertilizing. The Magdalen Square Oak trees received their shot of health Lane Thomas Thibodeaux today. Jim’s Tree Service spent the day in the Square fertilizing and removing crane has died in Louisiana since 2011. was ordered to pay a $500 several diseased Camellia bushes. Also removed were the Ligustrum trees on the fine and spend 45 days in jail North side of Magdalen Square. The Ligustrum trees were struggling to flourish The LDWF 16 have died by some trauma, while an- for killing one in 2014. due to their age and the bad weather we’ve have had recently. There will be new Whooping cranes are rare trees planted in the near future other 12 have run into elec- trical lines. But what is more because of how slow they re- troubling is that 14 have produce. been shot and killed, with They don’t reach sexual the possibility of another fivematurity until they’re about possibly dying due to a gun- four years old, she said. shot. To increase the popula- “These birds are not being tion, conservationists hatch mistaken for another bird,” eggs and raise chicks in cap- she explained. “They are fivetivity. According to the Inter- feet high with a wingspan of national Crane Foundation, eight feet.” the cost of growing, releasing Zimiriski told the Rotar- and monitoring a whooping ians it is not hunters who crane in Louisiana is about are accidentally shooting the $94,000 per bird. whooping cranes. A major- Each bird killed thus rep- ity of the shooters have been resents a substantial finan- teenagers, she said, cial setback, Zimorski said. “It has been an intention- “It’s discouraging that it’s al act,” she said. been such a high source of mortality,” she said.

of LSU are expecting of he said, adding that “it’s response is going to be a husband and father of alone will cost around Fired the Legislature.” one of the more techni- limited, and it will seem women. I was raised by $140 million, and LSU After an LSU fra- cal things that people small in comparison to women,” said Magee. is asking for $12 million ternity pledge, Maxwell outside of the Legisla- the magnitude of the He also noted that of that cost this year. From Page 1 Gruver, died of alcohol ture don’t always under- problem. I don’t want one of his goals since he It also is expecting to poisoning and asphyxi- stand or think about.” the public, and I espe- was elected has been to benefit from hundreds LSU’s former president, ation in a hazing ritual Under the rules, cially don’t want LSU “rebrand the Republican of millions of dollars in F. King Alexander, and in September 2017, leg- each lawmaker can pre- students to think that Party as more female- federal COVID-19 relief former head football islators passed the Max file only five bills in odd- this response is reflec- friendly, even though funds. coach Les Miles. But Gruver Act in the spring numbered years that tive of the actual con- I’m a white male.” “LSU has identified LSU’s only disciplinary of 2018 to increase crim- do not relate to state cern of the Legislature,” “I think that we a lot of money that they action was to temporar- inal penalties for haz- finances. “I would hesay said. “The timing need to engage in more are interested in the ily suspend two athletic ing. probably 90 percent of of it, based on how our policies that are at- state providing them,” officials who had known But limitations on legislators were already system works by Con- tractive to women,” he Magee said, “and we about the allegations. how many bills other committed to their five stitution, is not going to said. “Sort of our prob- have a lot of money Many of the women than fiscal ones thatgeneral bills,” Magee allow for us to really ad- lem right now is that from COVID relief that in the Legislature have the Legislature can con- said of legislators before dress it in this session.” we have a party that we could give to LSU. I expressed concern about sider in the upcoming the sexual misconduct Magee said in a is, at best, standoffishthink that you’re going LSU’s handling of the session could keep its scandal at LSU esca- tweet on March 12, “A to women, or at least to see legislators push- problem, and other law- response to the sexual lated. greater reckoning is standoffish to a broading really hard for LSU makers have criticized assault scandal from be- “What I’m trying to needed at LSU. But I section of women,” said to address the sexual the university as well. ing as forceful as many say is that I think that think we should pause Magee. assault problems if LSU Magee has three de- lawmakers would like, this event was too close for a moment and just One thing that leg- comes making those re- grees from LSU and re- at least for now, Magee to the beginning of the applaud the bravery of islators can do this ses- quests.” fers to his time there as said. session to come up with these women who re- sion is to press LSU one of the most “impact- “While it might not a meaningful push for fused to be silenced. officials about the- as ful” periods of his life. be big, sweeping reform comprehensive, sweep- Let’s not let their cour- sault issue when they “Clearly, I’m con- like the Max Gruver ing changes,” Magee age be in vain.” come up to the Capitol cerned for the students Act, I think we’ll still said. “It would be very And he said in the seeking money for the RICHARD A. who attend there,” he see a lot of dialogue, difficult, especially - be interview that he feels school. said. “Their safety and probably uncomfortable cause most times those personally called to take LSU is requesting BROUSSARD health should top pri- dialogue, with LSU here pushes take a number of a stand for the women funding for a new sci- orities.” at the Capitol,” he said. acts.” at LSU. ence building and a Insurance Agency But he also cautioned “We have a problem,” “My fear is this: Our “Not to mention, I’m new library. The library 893-5183 that since the state Constitution requires the Legislature to focus Notice of Request for Proposals mostly on fiscal issues Prepare for Delcambre Seafood & Farmers Market Health & Wellness Program in odd-numbered years, The Twin Parish Port Commission is accepting proposals for the following professional contracts in connection with lawmakers may not be power outages the Health and Wellness Initiative Program funded through the USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program Grant: able to do as much as with a Generac they would like to ad- home standby • Health & Wellness Coordinator – Manage and coordinate a health and wellness dress the sexual assault program for farmers market. issues in the session generator • Nutritionist or Dietitian – Work with Chef Consultant and vendors to provide that starts Monday. healthier food options. “I think the main REQUEST A FREE QUOTE! • Social Media/Promotions Coordinator – Manage health and wellness and thing you’re going to related social media channel content and posts including, but not limited to Face see is a mandatory re- 8556496863 book, Instagram, podcast, webpages. porting bill, which just • Podcast Producer – Recruit guests, handle scheduling of guests and episodes, says that if somebody prepare information about guests and subject for host finds out about a sexual • Podcast Editor – Edit audio recording of podcast and prepare for distribution assault, they have to FREE • Podcast Host – Host a health and wellness podcast report it or otherwise 7-Year Extended Warranty* they’ll be terminated,” A $695 Value! Magee said. “And that’s Off er valid February 15 - June 6, 2021 The same qualified applicant may apply for one or more of the above positions. Request for Proposals and return forms are enclosed. Additional materials are available great. I don’t see any Special Financing Available problems with a manda- on request and online at DelcambreMarket.org/health. Selected applicants will be contacted Subject to Credit Approval for interviews and/or additional information. tory reporting bill, but I don’t think it’s necessar- *To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and Proposal return forms are due by 5:00 PM, Friday, April 16, 2021 by return mail to activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of P. O. Box 101, Delcambre, LA 70528, or by fax to (800) 884-6120, ily going to be what the terms and conditions. public and the students or by email to [email protected].

Wednesday, April 7, 2021Abbeville Meridional Page 3 Congressman wants Louisiana to dedicate at least $1B in federal stimulus for major transportation projects

By David Jacobs | while local governments will wouldn’t be enough to pay out high-speed internet has that would have triggered the The Center Square get almost $2 billion. for both projects – the Baton become a bipartisan priority tax increases, hoping a per- “The extraordinary and Rouge bridge is expected to among lawmakers, and ailing manent solution, such as fed- (The Center Square) – likely once-in-a-lifetime avail- cost in the neighborhood of water systems are a signifi- eral funding, would emerge. Congressman Garret Graves ability of flexible federal dol - $1 billion – but an infusion cant problem for many small Ava Dejoie, who leads the is urging state lawmakers lars could be an opportunity of that size could kick-start towns statewide. Louisiana Workforce Com- to spend at least $1 billion for transformational invest- both projects and could be Edwards said he has been mission, said this week the of Louisiana’s federal stimu- ment in Louisiana,” Graves combined with other revenue discussing possible uses for commission had borrowed lus money on transportation wrote in a letter to Edwards, sources such as tolls, Graves the money with legislators. $156 million so far. Officials projects, such as major new state Senate President Page said. His first priority for the -stimwill be able to stop borrowing, bridges in Baton Rouge and Cortez and state House “It puts the project within ulus money, which he shares at least temporarily, once the Lake Charles. Speaker Clay Schexnayder. reach,” Graves said. “You with many lawmakers, is to first-quarter tax payments Gov. John Bel Edwards In the letter and in an start getting within a more shore up the state’s unem- start arriving in a few weeks. suggested he could support interview, Graves pointed doable realm.” ployment insurance trust Dejoie said the state's that idea if federal regula- to a new Mississippi River Asked about Graves’ re- fund. Employers pay taxes debt to the federal govern- tors say it’s OK, though his crossing in the Baton Rouge quest, Edwards pointed out to support the fund. When ment may reach $240 mil- top priority is replenishing area and a new Interstate the U.S. Treasury has not is- the balance falls, employers lion. Under current law, to the state fund that pays for 10 bridge in Lake Charles as sued the rules about how the pay more and the benefits tomaintain the current tax and unemployment benefits. -Do long delayed needs. stimulus money can be used unemployed workers are re- benefit levels, the fund- bal ing so might also cost close to “I think that’s a really or how much money will be duced. ance would need to hit $750 $1 billion if lawmakers want good long-term investment distributed in the first year. And when the balance hits million, she said. to maintain the current level that doesn’t get the state in “Making those allocations zero, as it did recently, state Edwards has not said pub- of employer taxes and worker a bad cycle of using this one- just isn’t possible yet,” Ed- officials borrow money from licly how much money he will benefits. time money to cover recur- wards said. the federal government to ask legislators to put into the Louisiana is set to receive ring costs,” Graves said in the The federal law explicitly pay legally required weekly fund. Commissioner of Ad- more than $5 billion through interview. “I think those are allows spending on water, benefits and employers ministrationare Jay Dardenne the federal American Rescue extraordinary projects that sewer and broadband infra- assessed a “solvency tax” to said the ask will be in the Plan. More than $3 billion are extraordinarily delayed.” structure. Expanding broad- repay the debt. Lawmakers “hundreds of millions.” will go to state government, A billion dollars likely band access to areas with- suspended the laws last year

Attorney General warns Louisiana 2021 Louisiana Survey shows bipartisan patients to avoid hearing aid scams majority say state sales tax is too high

BATON ROUGE – BATON ROUGE roads, bridges and serve as barometers of April 8. advance research and Attorney General Jeff – Researchers in the highways; prisons and public sentiment, in- LSU's Public Policy dialogue. The intent is Landry is cautioning Public Policy Research incarceration; and wel- cluding assessments Research Lab is a joint to inspire our commu- Louisiana consumers to Lab, or PPRL, at LSU fare, food stamps and of whether the state is effort of the Manship nities to think deeply, watch out for mislead- Manship School of other public assistance heading in the right di- School of Mass Commu- take action, develop ing sales tactics from Mass Communication’s programs. While a ma- rection or wrong direc- nication’s Reilly Center solutions and broaden companies selling over- Reilly Center for Me- jority of respondents tion, perceptions about for Media & Public Af- knowledge. Underlying the-counter hearing dia & Public Affairs do not want to reduce the most important fairs and the College the Center’s endeavors aids. have released the third spending in any of these problems facing the of Humanities and So- is to strengthen and Hearing aids are of five reports of the areas, only elementary state, as well as evalu- cial Sciences at LSU. advance the Manship critical medical devices 2021 Louisiana Survey. and secondary educa- ations of public revenue It provides a variety of School’s national and that benefit people of Findings reflect most tion gain a majority in sources and spending services including sur- state leadership in me- all ages. However, since Louisiana residents favor of higher taxes. priorities. vey research, ‘big data’ dia and politics. the Food and Drug Ad- want neither spending Support for more The survey is a proj- analytics, social me- LSU’s Manship ministration (FDA) re- cuts nor tax increases. government spending ect of the Reilly Center dia tracking, and focus School of Mass Commu- laxed restrictions on The Louisiana Sur- on higher education for Media & Public Af- group interviews. The nication ranks among hearing aid sales, doz- vey polled 781 adult and support for rais- fairs, an integral part of Lab combines profes- the strongest collegiate ens of companies have residents from across ing state taxes to fund the Manship School of sional capability, the communication pro- entered the over-the- the state to find higherout education both Mass Communication. latest data technolo- grams in the country, counter hearing aid how Louisianans view fell significantly sinceThe Reilly Center’s gies, and the variety with its robust empha- market. The problem is their government and 2018, by 12 and 13 per- mission is to generate of intellectual assets sis on media and public many are selling poor its policies. The survey centage points, respec- thoughtful programs, available at LSU to affairs. It offers under- sound amplifiers not was conducted from tively. dialogue and research serve our clients’ re- graduate degrees in FDA-approved medical January 4 to March 1, Fifty-seven percent about mass communi- search needs. public relations, jour- devices. and the total sample (57 percent) favor rais- cation and its many- The Reilly Center for nalism, political com- “Technological inno- has a +/- 6.4 percent ing the state gasoline faceted relationships Media & Public Affairs munication, digital ad- vations can be a great margin of error. tax if it is used to fund with social, economic is partnership-driven, vertising and pre-law, thing for consumers, es- Findings from the transportation infra- and political issues. action-oriented and along with four gradu- pecially when it comes third of five reportsstructure. Support is Read the full first dedicated to exploring ate degree programs: indicate the following strong among Demo- report from the Loui- contemporary issues at master of mass commu- to improving their qual- opinions on state fiscalcrats (60 percent) and siana Survey at http:// the intersection of mass nication, Ph.D. in me- ity of life while lowering policy: independents (62 per- pprllsu.com/projects/. communication and dia and public affairs, their costs,” said Attor- A bipartisan major- cent), but lags among The fourth of five re - public life. Its inter- certificate of strategic ney General Landry. ity of Louisiana resi- Republicans (46 per- ports from the Louisi- disciplinary approach communication, and “However, Louisiana dents thinks that the cent). ana Survey is slated for draws together experts dual MMC/law degree. patients in the market- state sales tax is too Louisiana residents release on Thursday, from diverse fields to place should be mindful high, including 53 per- overwhelmingly favor that some sellers push- cent of Democrats and maintenance of ex- ing ‘innovations’ may 61 percent of Repub- isting transportation not have the best of in- licans. Opinion splits infrastructure (67 tentions.” more evenly over the percent) over expand- IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN! Companies may state income tax: 41 ing its capacity (29 market their products percent say it is too percent). as being “FDA regis- high and 37 percent say Michael Hen- The Abbeville Meridional tered” to imply approval it is about right. derson, director of or endorsement; but, a Fifty-two percent LSU’s Public Policy registered product does (52 percent) of Louisi- Research Center, is not equate to being an ana residents say they available for inter- FDA-approved product. pay about the right views. Contact acha- VOILA The FDA recently is- amount in state taxes, [email protected] to sued a bulletin warning and 41 percent say they schedule. firms that are misrep- are paying more than The Louisiana resenting their prod- their fair share. Survey has been con- ucts in such ways. The Pluralities say that ducted for the past Are you a new business? best way to ensure your low-income people 20 years, establish- hearing aid is legitimate (41 percent), middle- ing rich longitudinal •What’s new with your business? •Won some awards this year? is to seek guidance from income people (48 per- measures of public a medical professional. cent) and small busi- opinion in Louisi- Attorney General nesses (50 percent) pay ana. The mission of •Got certified in something? •Added on/new building? Landry also offered the more than their fair the Louisiana Sur- following tips for Loui- share of state taxes. A vey is to establish siana patients looking plurality (50 percent) benchmarks as well Let everyone in Vermilion Parish know your business... to purchase an over-the- says that upper-income as to capture change counter hearing device: people pay less than in residents’ assess- Know that the FDA their fair share, and a ments of state gov- Business is what VOILA is all about! has not approved any majority (56 percent) ernment services. over-the-counter hear- says the same about The survey is further ing aids. large businesses. dedicated to tracking Research the seller The public has little public opinion on the on the Better Business stomach for budget cuts contemporary policy Bureau website or an- or tax increases in six issues that face the other objective consum- specific policy areas: state. Each itera- Call Emeral or Colin er review site. elementary and second- tion of the Louisiana Consider getting a ary education; higher Survey contains core screening and opinion education; health care; items designed to and get all the details from a hearing special- ist. Remember that if a on this edition! deal seems too good to PAYING TOO MUCH FOR be true, it usually is. your Medicare Supplement Insurance? For more consumer For More Information On safety tips, visit www. 893-4223 AGJeffLandry.com or • Medicare Supplement call Attorney General • Long Term Care Landry's Consumer Protection Hotline at • Health, Cancer & Life Insurance 800-351-4889. • Annuities James R. Landry Jr. Call me today for more information LUTCF 337-898-1444 or 337-501-4389

Opinions Abbeville Meridional

W e dn es da y, April 7, 2021Page 4 Wednesday, April 7, 2021Page

Biden should overturn this decision and protect American jobs

By Rick Manning

President Joe Biden has the power to overturn the recent U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) decision in a trade dispute involving the importation and sale of certain lithium-ion bat- teries, battery cells, battery modules, and battery packs, which would do significant damage to Unit- ed States interests in growing a domestic battery manufacturing capacity — and he should exercise it in order to protect American jobs that are now at stake. SK Innovation, a South Korean company, is building a vehicle battery manufacturing plant in the state of Georgia which would employ 2,600 Georgians by the beginning of 2024 as they manu- facture specially designed electric batteries for the new Ford EV F-150 truck and the Volkswagen’s Chattanooga, Tennessee electric vehicle manufac- turing plant. SK Innovation will also manufacture a large percentage of batteries available on the open mar- ket, manufacturing capacity that is sorely needed today. When fully complete, SK Innovation’s Geor- gia battery plant is expected to produce as many A Bipartisan Proposal for Voter as 330,000 batteries each year that can be used for electric vehicles and residential stationary storage (ESS). Integrity and Photo IDs Unfortunately, the USITC’s decision effectively destroys this promise, creating inevitable delays in the ability to meet President Biden’s stated goals for domestic EV production. Michael Brown vote. Not once. Nor have I ever heard a conservative While the decision purports to allow for a lim- townhall.com suggest that poor Americans should be deprived of ited transition period for SK Innovation to meet the their right to vote. needs of its clients, the ITC has otherwise banned At the risk of sounding Pollyannish, I believe Instead, the call for every voter to have photo SK from importing critical components for its bat- most Americans want our elections to be fair. I be- ID seems quite reasonable, providing a way to help teries for 10 years. It is absurd on its face to as- lieve they want all eligible voters to have an oppor- safeguard against voter fraud. After all, as many sume that any company would continue building tunity to vote, and I believe they want an accurate have now pointed out, in order to pick up your will and staffing for a massive U.S. manufacturing- fa count of the votes. How, then, do we deal with the call tickets for an MLB game, photo ID is required. cility when it will be so drastically limited in its new Georgia voting laws, which have triggered po- Why, then, shouldn’t voters be required to pro- operations, and will effectively be closed before it lar opposite responses from the left and the right? vide the same? Is this too much to ask? And isn’t it can even be brought to full capacity. From the perspective of the left, these laws are racist to suggest that, on average, black Americans What’s more, given the unique nature of the SK a blatant attack on poor Americans, in particular have less ability to get photo ID than other Ameri- Innovation batteries, which are designed specifical- black Americans. From the perspective of the right, cans? ly for each automaker, it is not feasible to transfer these laws are a sane effort to ensure fair elections, I asked these questions to a black friend of mine production to another domestic or foreign battery seeking to close up loopholes of abuse. who is an accomplished educator working in the manufacturer and still meet the automakers’ pro- The Washington Post notes that, “Opponents of inner-cities. (He is also a strong moral conservative duction schedule. Georgia’s new elections law call it a blatant attack and not a Biden voter.) On both the national security and international on voting rights, aimed specifically at suppressing He replied, “If you look at the rate at which Af- trade levels, it is critical that domestic auto manu- the minority vote that helped propel Joe Biden’s rican Americans are able to acquire IDs needed for facturers have the ability to source their batteries presidential win and gave Democrats two critical school, jobs etc., collectively, you will see that they in the U.S. In the case of foreign based manufac- seats in the U.S. Senate.” have a much lower percentage of having these nec- turers like Volkswagen, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada In stark contrast, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp essary items in urban and rural communities. (USMCA) trade agreement requires a Regional said, “I’m telling you the truth about this bill. It ex- “There are difficulties with job scheduling (not Value Content of 75 percent, which becomes- expands access.” even being able to take off for health reasons due tremely difficult if not impossible to meet shouldAccording to the Post, which can be expected to to being fired or put on warnings), transportation Biden allow this mistaken decision to stand. lean heavily to the left, “the law shows it does con- (IDs are central to car ownership and one begets I don’t agree with the Biden administration’s tain new restrictions on voting; some are likely to the other) and the knowledge of how to obtain these underlying rationale behind the push for electric make it disproportionately more difficult for poorer IDs (due to poor documentation of birth certificates vehicles. However, the business decision made by voters and voters of color to cast their ballots.” and social security cards).” Ford and Volkswagen to continue their aggressive On the other hand, the Post observed, “It’s also He continued, “Now, this is not all Black folk expansion into this market should not be delayed correct that there are ways in which the law ex- but for many caught in the rat race of life these are for years due to what effectively amounts to a trade pands voter access, particularly in ways that will basic challenges. Having worked with students in dispute between two South Korean competitors. be visible in rural areas.” private day settings where they have little family Additionally, experts have pointed out that limit- How do we sort this out? And with so much pas- support, or in the system . . . they couldn't even ing production of these batteries here in the US will sion on either side, is there common ground that register to vote, get health care etc. because of their create an even greater opportunity for the Chinese can be found? inability to provide documentation that people in to continue dominating electric battery production Former NBA star and now sports commenta- your demographic are born with. and leave the US behind. tor Charles Barkley recently opined, “. . . I think “So, requiring IDs to Black folks shuts down a Another concern is that LG, the complainant in our system is set up where our politicians, whether large segment of the community which already has the USITC suit, through one of its units in South they’re Republicans or Democrats, are designed to difficulty voting and will just be another preventa- Korea (LG Uplus) uses Huawei as a vendor for its make us not like each other, so they can keep their tive measure to keep them from the poll.” 5G network technology. This has raised major con- grasp [on] money and power.” This helps give perspective to those who feel cerns as the US has worked to encourage nations He added, “They divide and conquer,” in con- that the Georgia laws are unfair and are targeting across the world to join the clean network initiative trast with the populace as a whole, which can be blacks. On the flip side, since photo ID is required and not use Huawei technology in 5G infrastruc- more unified on its own. for so many basic life functions (including picking ture. South Korea has not joined that effort and When it comes to Georgia’s new voting laws, it up pre-ordered tickets at a baseball game), it seems as a result LG is the only mobile carrier in South seems that almost no one is trying to bridge the entirely reasonable to require this for voting. Korea to use Huawei. gap. Instead, the rift is growing by the day, with The solution to this impasse seems simple Given the recent experience in Anchorage, Major League Baseball moving its annual All Star enough, especially given the American spirit of where the Chinese government demonstrated pub- game from Georgia and former president Trump “where there’s a will, there’s a way.” lic contempt for America and our representatives, calling for a boycott of MLB (and Coca Cola, which If my premises are right, namely, that most it would be significant for the administration to put also denounced the new laws). Americans want every eligible voter to have the new weight into the Clean Network Initiative as a At the same time, Democratic politicians like ability to vote and that most Americans want all whole. Striking down the USITC decision in this Sen. Raphael Warnock and former gubernatorial votes to be counted accurately, why not put the em- case would send a powerful, proportional message candidate Stacey Abrams are urging companies not phasis on helping every eligible voter get valid pho- in that regard. to boycott Georgia. (And, of course, one could argue to ID? Why not do our best to level the playing field President Biden has a unique opportunity to that it was the very policies of Abrams that caused and safeguard against cheating at the same time? stand up for American manufacturing and the jobs these laws to be passed.) The political establishments on the left and it will create, while demonstrating strong leader- How, then, do we move forward? right might not be so keen to do this, but I believe ship in our nation’s relationship to China. To make To be totally candid, I have never personally most Americans would be in favor. Am I too Polly- the most of it, Biden should reject this USITC deci- heard a single conservative leader even hint that annish in thinking like this? sion. he or she wanted to suppress the African American

Rick Manning is the President of Americans for Limited Government. • NUMBERS TO KNOW • City Hall: 893-8550 Kathy Cormier General ManaGer Chris Rosa ManaGInG edItor Clerk of Court: 898-1992 Theresa Milliman BusIness ManaGer Abbeville General: 893-5466 Cindy Nicholas CIrCulatIon ManaGer Police Jury: 898-4300 SUBSCRIPTION RATES Digital Access Only School Board: 893-3973 (e-Edition & Website access) (excludes home delivery of print edition) Tax Assessor: 893-2837 1 Day $1.50 • 3 Months $25 • 6 Months $45 • 1 Year $75 Registrar of Voters: 898-4324 Full Access (Home Delivery, e-Edition & Website acess) Office of Family Security: 893-5930 3 Months $27 • 6 Months $50 • 1 Year $100 Chamber of Commerce: 893-2491 Full Access (Mail Delivery, e-Edition & Website acess) Senator Bob Hensgens: 740-6425 3 Months $37 • 6 Months $67 • 1 Year $127 The Abbeville Meridional is the Official Journal for the Vermilion Parish State Rep: Ryan Bourriaque: 893-5035 Police Jury, the Vermilion Parish School Board, the Abbeville Council, the Erath Council the Maurice Council, the Delcambre Council, State Rep: Blake Miguez: 337-937-8827 Abbeville General Hospital, and the Abbeville Harbor Terminal TELEPHONE: 337-893-4223 • FAX: 337-898-9022 • WEBSITE: www.vermiliontoday.com U.S.Cong. Clay Higgins: 337-235-6322 Published Everyday Except Saturday and Monday by Louisiana State Newspapers POSTMASTER: Send Form 3579 to U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy: 337-261-1400 The Abbeville Meridional • 318 North Main Street Abbeville, Louisiana 70510 • Second Class Postage Paid Copyright 2013, LSN Publishing Company, LLC. All printed material is protected, and no portion of the contest may be reproduced in any form, or by any means, without prior written permission from LSN Publishing Company, LLC.

schools Abbeville Meridional Wednesday, April 7, 2021 Page 5 SWE Patriots show their patriotism

Last week, second graders at Seventh Ward Elementary learned about famous Americans and their impact on our society. Students also learned about patrio- tism and American symbols. They made replicas, at home with their parents, of the American symbol they chose to research!

Ciji Romero’s 2nd grade class.

Blair Greene’s 2nd grade class. Deandre Martin’s spectacular White House. JH Williams Tower of Books challenge

All through March our 6th through 8th grade ELA class- es have been competing in the Tower of Books Challenge. Students had to read AR books within their level, pass an AR test and try to build the tallest book tower. Melancon ewelers DIAMONDS, designers & Fine Jewelry The Tower of Books challenge Winners for 6th grade, with 53 books read in one month, is Mrs. Taylor Luquette’s 1/2nd block. Those J 2423 Veterans Memorial Dr. • Abbeville • 893-1900 students are: Zacorrian Brailey, Trenden Campbell, Emiyeni Da- vis, Kalob Decuire, Jaiden Derouen, Naveah Domingue, Annalyssya Duhon, Cameron Fuselier, Randall Gary Jr. , Day’lan Greene, Chloe Grogan, Makayla Lacoste, Isabel Mendez, Emma Mouton, Aaliyah Pil- lette, Breione Shelvin, Kaden Williams.

Submitted by Katie Griffin, JHW Librarian

The Tower of Books Challenge winners for 7th grade, with 48 books read in one month, is Mrs. Gene Luquette’s 7/8th block. Those stu- dents are: Astrid Baez-Salinas, Camden Bass, Tyrone Baudoin, Jase Clark, Keniyah Gallow, Zyrick Grogan, Jaidyn Levy, Jachelle Mal- brue, Bryand Mao, Dazavian Maze, Bailey McMillin, Ashley Nguyen, Stephanie Rice, Melissa Richard, German Sanchez, Carly Savoy, Ab- bygale Stelly, Sarnity Wallace

Submitted by Katie Griffin, JHW Librarian

schools Abbeville Meridional

Wednesday, April 7, 2021 Page 6 Meaux Elementary AR grade level leaders Meaux Elementary students were recognized for outstanding achievement in the Accelerated Reading Program. The top six points earners at each grade level received a prize bag. Students who earned 100 plus points were also recognized.

First Grade AR Leaders: Mallyn Caffey, Elijah Ashby, Elliot-Kate Du- bois, Jillian Brower, Grayson Matthews, and Emma Andrus. Second Grade AR Leaders: Sawyer Grace Ashby, Abigail Kelly, Bren- don Broussard, Jinley Turner, Ember Meaux, and Brooklyn Dozier.

Third Grade AR Leaders: Anthony Salande, Liam Pool, Gabrielle Tay- Fourth Grade AR Leaders: Beckett Brantley, Trey Broussard, Ryder lor, Lilyahna Hall, Everett Dubois, and McKenzie Lebouef. Chapman, Elliot Summers, Baylor Meaux, and Talyn Pereida.

Fifth Grade AR Leaders: Isabella Pool, Gregory Conner, Jacob Brow- er, Cole Credeur, Hayleigh Duhon, and Eli Dubois. 200 Point Club Members: Beckett Brantley, Isabella Pool, and Antho- ny Salande 100 Point Club Member: Gregory Conner. *** Silly girl, take the compliment ***

she feels as if it’s a joke that being paid a compli- she says “Start with constantly doubt their and that she is the laugh ment actually lights up ‘thank you’ and offering honesty and love for of the day. Sherelle and the same parts of your nothing in return. Before what and who you are. Not-So Lauren felt that in their brain that get activated you leave, practice with Just say...... seperate experiences, when you get paid a mon- yourself as though a best when people compliment etary award, it also aids friend who you haven’t them, they’ve used it in a in learning new motor seen in years sees you. Cavalier way to get into their life skills and behaviors. She would probably say by and cause havoc or basi- Being in the habit of ‘oh my gosh, I love your ~ ~ cally because they didn’t giving those compliments lipstick’. The key is to like the lipstick you wore helps us appreciate what find something you love Tiffany and complimented you is good and what we like about yourself that morn- for your reaction just in those around us, it ing and practice it.” Cavalier to mock you in the end, helps us like one another. It may seem silly, but and Molly said there was Spread it, because you’re I think it’s important to loads of past trauma to more likely to give a com- start normalizing com- Why is it so hard your work of art, they’ll cause her self-esteem to pliment after you get one. plimenting someone and for women to accept a expect it agian. take a nose dive. It’s a bit inspiring. receiving a compliment compliment? I’ve real- I’m no stranger to There was a gentle- Lastly, I will quote better. You don’t want ized recently that every those feeling at all. Men man that said that he a professional friend of anyone to stop compli- time I get complimented, and women both deal would compliment mine, Nicky Stansbury, menting you because you I always say something with issues about their women sometimes degrading myself after own self-image and con- and wouldn’t even get thanking the person. For fidence issues differently, a thank you in return. instance, “Oh, Tiffany, I but we all need to pay According to social phy- love your hair, it’s so full attention to these slights chologist Laura Brannon and thick today.” A good that hurt us. in an article I found, she reaction or reply would Could it also be that said that women who be, “Oh thank you for we are afraid that if we have high self-esteem that, you’ve made my take the compliment, may reject compliments day,” but what do I say, we would seem prideful, because they want to “What? Really? I hate it, overly confident, boastful seem modest and self- but thank you.” If I were or arrogant? I think it’s effacing. giving the compliment a mixture of both. Who With that article I AVAILABLE TO ALL 16 YEARS OR OLDER and received that reply, taught us this and why is read, I can’t stop wonder- The COVID-19 Vaccine is now available at Abbeville it would have made my it a thing? ing, is it unattractive to feel bad. This is a gender ste- be confident, and if so, General Hospital and our Rural Health Clinics! We A lot of it, I think, has reotype thing and its it’s definately outdated. are receiving larger quantities of the vaccine on a to do with our own con- completly outdated. It’s Compliments make us consistent weekly basis and no longer have a fidence, or lack thereof. time to stop the craziness feel good whether giv- It’s a self-image situation and accept the compli- ing them or receiving waiting list. Call to schedule an appointment to where you see yourself ment!!! them and I think if peo- receive the vaccine in one of the following ways: differently than oth- I asked a few of my ple decided not to give ers and are very hard friends the very question you one would be sad. •Pfizer Vaccine at Abbeville General Hospital: on yourself. Women do I ask in the beginning, Appreciation is a basic Must be 16 years of age or older this every single day. We and I have gotten a few human need. Appreciate might feel insecure about responses supporting my the compliment because 337-898-6285 or 337-898-6242 our looks or even doing theory, and there were a they appreciate your well on a work project couple that made me say qualities. But, learning •Moderna Vaccine at AGH Rural Health Clinics: and when we receive a to myself, “hmmmmm.” how to graciously accept Must be 18 years of age or older compliment on it, our One friend, Donna, a compliment is just as first instinct is to be said that it’s always been important as learning 337-898-9449 guarded or feel anxious an issue for her, when she how to give them. that if someone glorifies is given a compliment, So, science has found “AG is an equal opportunity provider and employer” www.abbevillegeneral.com

Wednesday, April 7, 2021 Abbeville Meridional Page 7 Maltrait students have Easter fun

An egghunt at Maltrait caused many smiles last week.

FIEB student sells most tickets The students were ready to see what prizes were hidden in the eggs. Organizations’ exchange of generous support

With the help of family, friends, and amazing community, the 2021 Angel T Black Pot Cook Off raised $76,500 to help families who have to walk the journey of pregnancy and/or infant loss!! Words will never express how thankful we are for every single person who has shown their love and support throughout our rollercoaster of griev- ing and healing, and our Journey of #givingforTripp!!!! Drake Gaspard sold the most car raffle tickets at F.I.E.B. Drake re- Their 3rd Annual Angel T Black Pot Cook Off on MARCH 26, 2022!!!! ceived an Amazon gift card for all his work supporting the school. HoroscopeDaily BY FRANCIS DRAKE VIPs are impressed and become more ef- PISCES with you. Go for the ficient in everything(Feb. 19 to March 20) ARIES gold! you do. You can im- This week you’re giv- (March 21 to April 19) prove your health in ing more thought to Remember that you LEO the next few weeks as your values. In other are empowered be- (July 23 to Aug. 22) well. words, what really cause the Sun is in Travel, further learn- matters in life? It’s your sign, which hap- ing, increased train- SAGITTARIUS important to deter- pens for only four ing and any activ- (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21) mine your own values weeks every year. ity that expands your This is a playful time so you can make wise Take it to the bank! world will appeal to for you! Enjoy sports decisions. you now. Do what you events, social outings TAURUS can to seek adventure and fun activities with YOU BORN TODAY (April 20 to May 20) and stimulation! kids. Look for opportu- You are creative, in- It’s appropriate for nities to express your novative and eager you to want to work VIRGO own creative talents. for new experiences. alone or behind the (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22) You like to be in con- scenes. Use the next This is an intense CAPRICORN trol of what you do. few weeks to set some week for you. Howev- (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19) It’s a time of learning goals for your person- er, gifts, goodies and Home, family and and perhaps teaching. al new year ahead. favors from others your private life are Explore any discipline will come your way, your primary focus that helps you get a GEMINI so keep your pockets now. Redecorating better understand- (May 21 to June 20) open! projects along with ing of who you are. Enjoy your increased DIY repairs will have Invest in your future popularity. Expect to LIBRA your attention. self. This year will set spend extra time with (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22) you in a new direction, young people as well Remember to get more AQUARIUS which could be crucial as creative, artistic sleep this week. In ad- (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18) for your success next types. dition, because you Your curiosity about year. have a better chance the world around you CANCER to see the reality of is aroused now. You Birthdate of: Billie (June 21 to July 22) your closest relation- want to learn more. Holiday, singer; Rus- For the next few ships, do what you can You also want to share sell Crowe, actor; weeks, the Sun is at to improve them. what you learn with Jackie Chan, martial the top of your chart others. That’s why artist, actor. casting you in a flat- SCORPIO this is an excellent tering spotlight. This (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21) time to study, read, (c) 2021 King Features means bosses, par- Do whatever you can write or take a course. Syndicate, Inc. ents, teachers and to get better organized

Page 8 Abbeville Meridional Wednesday, April 7, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

ABBEVILLE GENERAL HOSPITAL COVID MEP IMPROVEMENTS Classifieds Sealed bids for, SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1ABBEVILLE GENERAL HOSPITAL COVID MEP IMPROVEMENTS, ABBEVILLE, LOUI- LET US HELP FIND SIANA will be received until 12:00 PM CST on April 27, 2021, at HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HOMES FOR SALE CALL TODAY A HOME FOR YOUR Abbeville General Hospital Administrative Offices, 118 N. Hospital NOW HIRING TO BE MOVED LOST OR FOUND Drive, Abbeville, Louisiana, 70510, after which the bids will be 100 ton 950 sq. ft. ANIMAL! publicly opened and read aloud. Any bids received after the LEMAIRE'S Captains 2 - bedroom, IT RUNS FREE above mentioned time will be returned unopened. Electronic bids TOWING Must have TO PLACE YOUR experience on 1 - bath. FOR ONE WEEK at www.centralbidding.com as allowed by Act 590 amended Title & TIRE Wood frame, crewboats, valid W/ NO REWARD OR COST OFFERED. 38:2212 are acceptable. has an opening drivers license, vinyl siding for a Tire Tech. TWIC card, Call CLASSIFIED AD IN 893-4223 MUST have transportation to (337) 400-3745 Bids shall be accepted only from contractors who are licensed un- and from work, and der LA-R.S.37:2150-2163 for the classification ofMECHANICAL . Valid Drivers summit to a Why wait to see if it License. pre-employment OUR NEWSPAPER! Experience a Coast Guard drug will sell on its own?? Complete Bid Documents for this project are available in elec- Plus. Apply in screen & physical. Call Kayla and get your ad in tronic form. They may be obtained from www.centralbidding. 14/14 & 7/7 TODAY!! YOU’LL BE GLAD person @ scheduled com. Printed copies are not available from the Designer, but 17003 For more info call 893-4223 Have arrangements can be made to obtain them. Electronic copies Veterans Beau YOU DID! CALL are available from the designer, send request to adginc@adginc. Memorial Drive 225-445-4137 org. Plan holders are responsible for their own reproduction costs. All real estate advertis- Kaplan, LA. Questions about this procedure shall be directed to the Designer something ing in this newspaper 70548 893-4223. is subject to the Fair at: [email protected]; PHONE (337) 234-5710 Housing Act which Withdrawal of Bids: LA R.S. 38§2215.A Allows “A political subdivi- NOW HIRING makes illegal to adver- NOW HIRING to tise any preference, sion upon receipt of bids for the undertaking of any public works WATER PLANT limitation or discrimi- contract shall act within forty-five calendar days of such receipt MANAGER & Offshore & Land nation based on race, to award said contract to the lowest responsible bidder or rejects WATER Environmental color, religion, sex, all bids.” OPERATOR advertise? handicap, familial sta- Cleaning Technicians tus or national origin or Each proposal must be accompanied by a bid bond, a certified Southeast Water- • $1000 Sign-On Bonus and intention, to make check, or cashier's check in an amount equal to at least five per- works District #2 is any such preference, cent (5%) of the amount bid, made payable without condition to I, seeking to hire one • $3000 of Safety Training limitation or discrimi- the Owner as a guarantee that the bidder, if awarded the contract, Haywood Sinegal Sr., nation. Familial status Class III Plant Man- • $1000 Referral Bonus have been convicted will promptly execute the contract documents. The bid security of have includes children under ager and one Class We of Sexual Battery. •Health Insurance Offered the age of 18 living with all bidders, except the three lowest, will be returned promptly after III Water Operator the canvas of bids. or Class II Water • 401K • Paid Vacation parents or legal custo- Operator capable My address is dians, pregnant women of becoming a • Additional Benefits 13218 G. Sinegal Rd. and people securing All contractors and/or subcontractors whose bid exceeds Fifty Rayne, LA 70578 the Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00) shall be licensed under R.S. Class III within a custody of children year. Looking for No experience under 18. This newspa- 37:2151-2163 of Louisiana Law. long term employ- required, but Industry Race: Black per will not knowingly ees. Must be able Experience Preferred Sex: Male accept any advertising Questions relative to acquiring hard copies of the bidding docu- space! for real estate which is to pass physical, Orientation: Female ments shall be addressed to Kim Dore ([email protected]) at in violation of the law. drug test, and • TWIC Card Required DOB: 01/13/1948 ADG Engineering, telephone number (337) 234-5710. All ques- background check. Our readers are hereby tions relative to the contents of the bid documents shall be ad- Required to pass a drug screen, Height: 6’1” Must live within 15 informed that all dwell- dressed to Eric Brignac ([email protected]) or Roland Leleux physical and hair follicle test Weight: 170 ings advertised in this mile radius of wa- (hair test goes back 6 months) 893-4223 ([email protected]), telephone number (337)-234-5710. ter plant. Only ac- Hair Color: Black newspaper are avail- • On Call Schedule 893-4223 able on equal opportu- cepting resumes till Eye Color: Brown nity basis. To complain A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on April 15th, April 15, 2021. Job Earn $35,000-$50,000/ year 2021 at 1:00 PM, in the MRI construction area. description avail- Tattoos: None of discrimination call able at 417 Trahan Apply on Indeed.com Scar: R_arm-Burns, HUD toll-free at 1-800- Street, Abbeville, Search Ecoserv in Abbeville, LA Back-Scar, L_arms-Burns 669-9777. The toll-free ABBEVILLE GENERAL HOSPTIAL LA. then Apply Now. Please upload Piercing: None telephone number for the hearing impaired is RAY LANDRY, CEO “Southeast Waterworks and submit resume when applying Mark: None 1-800-927-9275. District #2 is an equal Prosthesis: None opportunity provider NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE!! Advertise: March 31st, 2021; April 7th, 2021; April 14th, 2021 and employer.” Vehicle: None

the Abbeville Meridional 893-4223 The Name You Know, The Name You Trust! CALL KAYLA AT 893-4223 TO PLACE YOUR HOUSE IN THE ABBEVILLE MERIDIONAL’S HOMES FOR SALE PAGE! Twenty-five runs in the Abbeville Meridional for only $60 Five runs in the Kaplan Herald for only $10

8390 Hwy 343, Maurice, LA 4 beds 2 baths 2,504 sqft - $415,000 To Be Moved Include a photo of your home because Looking for a large home on 16 Acres in the highly desirable North Vermilion school district that has never flooded, here it is! This Charming 4 bedroom 2.5 bath home is a must see with a openSALE floor plan updated kitchen and bamboo wood floors. Home 950 sq. ft. 2 - bedroom, has a beautiful wood burning fireplace with built in shelves overlooking the living room, kitchen, and dinning room.Three of the four bed rooms have dual closets and Mitchel Cormier bathrooms have dual sinks. Kitchen has plenty of counter and cabinet space with roll Every Picture Tells a Story! out drawers in some cabinets and lots of room for your next holiday get together with REALTOR® 1 - bath. family. Original owners and has been very well maintained, and lets face it they don’t 110 Travis St. Suite 102 build homes like they use too!Home sits on a high 16 Acres, 12 cleared and 4 wooded, Lafayette, LA 70503 with fruit trees, Evergreen oaks, and pecan trees. It has a barn on property with a solid Wood frame, vinyl siding steel frame, and storage area. Property has well water that is available. Home is not in Cell: 337-422-8189 ATTACH YOUR PHOTO and PLACE YOUR COPY in the BODY of the Email, and a flood zone and does not require flood insurance. Office:337-385-1187 PENDING [email protected] Call (337) 400-3745 homesforsaleacadiana.com SEND IT TO [email protected] COMMUNITY CALENDAR LOCAL SCHOOLS, CHURCHES AND OTHER SIMILAR GROUPS ARE WELCOME TO SUBMIT GENERAL INFORMATION ON LOCAL MEETINGS. THE NOTICES WILL APPEAR AS SPACE ALLOWS, AND WITH THE APPROVAL OF THE GENERAL MANAGER.

Briggs/Abbeville United served following the meeting. Post 279. We also have an the month at 6:00 PM at the of the month 11:00 a.m. will Methodist Church food pan- New members are always The Legionnaires of the Honor Guard and are always KC Hall in Kaplan. Meal is be a zoom meeting. try distribution days are every welcome. American Legion, Vermilion looking to sign up new mem- served. Meeting ID 836 984 1306 month. 1st Friday Seniors Post 29, meet every 3rd bers. passcode 925944 and disabled. 2nd, 3rd, 4th American Legion Wednesday of the month, Links Des Pink Meeting Fridays everyone else. Auxiliary Vermilion Unit 29 in beginning at 6:30 p.m., at Emotions Anonymous held 2nd Tuesday of Each New Life Retreat Drug and Abbeville meets 1st Thursday the American Legion Home meeting every Saturday - Month at 6:00 p.m. Contact Alcohol Rehabilitation Acadiana Lupus of every month at 5:30 p.m. located at 3319 Veterans 10:30 - 11:30 AM. Kaplan HopeforaCure@mjewelers. and Education PUBLIC Support Group Meetings in the office building adja- Memorial Drive. If you are Parish Library. com or www.linksdespink. SERVICE ANNOUNCE- 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Second cent to the Hall located at a veteran, whether male or org. MENT With the opiate crisis Saturday of each month. 3319 Veterans Memorial Dr. female, and are interested in Food For Families AAA running rampant, families Goodwill’s Corporate Office Always looking for volunteers joining the American Legion, Comeaux Park, Abbeville dis- Live Oak Masonic are looking for ways to help 2435 W. Congress Street, to help with our programs and please contact us at 337-652- tributes food for Seniors every Lodge #193 P.H.A. 1002 those they love who need Lafayette, LA. (park in back) work within the community. 6300. You would be wel- 1st Tuesday of the Month Dr. Martin Luther King Dr. treatment. Getting them into For more info contact Michelle Come by and see what we comed as a valued member except holidays. People 60 or Monthly meeting 1st and 3rd treatment becomes even Stelly at 337-280-3274 are about. FMI call 337-893- of the American Legion and over who wish to participate Friday of every month at 7:30 harder if their loved one 8681. Vermilion Post 29. must bring proof of income, p.m. Meal served. If you is not willing. This is when Mobile Library date of birth and number of have any questions call Sect. Intervention can become (Bookmobile) Monday: Abuse Victims Support The Christian Service persons per household. Garland Bolden Sr. 337-255- key. To learn more about Pecan Island, VPAP Groups Abbeville Faith Center distributes food 6286. successful interventions, (Maurice), Vermilion Health House Outreach offers a Monday - Thursday and also Gamblers Anonymous please visit, https://www. Care (Nunez). Tuesday: Support Group for victims daily lunches are served in Meeting - every Monday at Maple Chapter #36 Holy narcononnewliferetreat.org/ Kid's Connection Day of domestic violence on the St Vincent DePaul Soup 6:30 p.m. at the Vermilion Royal Arch P.H.A. 1002 blog/intervention-101.html care (Meaux), Lighthouse Thursdays at 5 p.m. Call Kitchen. Provide proof of Parish Library-Abbeville Dr. Martin Luther King Dr. (Abbeville) or Maurice Head 893-3033 for info. Similarly, income. Branch in Meeting Room Monthly Meeting 2nd Friday ADDICTION SCREEN- Start, Indian Bayou, Maison the Sexual Abuse Response A, 405 E. St. Victor St. in of every month at 7:30 p.m. INGS Narconon can help Du Monde (Abbeville), Center offers free counsel- Erath Knights of Abbeville. FMI call Brenda Meal served. If you have any you take steps to overcome East Ridge Nursing Home ing. FMI call 898-9555. Columbus Council 3872 @ 937-4192 or Hassan @ questions call Sect. Garland addiction in your family. Call (Abbeville). Wednesday: meets the first Tuesday of (337)652-5234. Bolden Sr. 337-255-6286. today for free screenings or Country Bears Head Start Acquired and Traumatic the month. At 6:30 p.m. to referrals. 1- 800-431-1754 (Forked Island) or Little Brain Injury Support Group eat and the meeting starts at Jeff Bowles #4 Knight The Marine Corps Einstein Head Start (Erath), Meeting the 3rd Tuesday of 7:00 p.m. Templar, P.H.A. 1002 Dr. League "LT. Dronet" TOPS LA 0526 ERATH FIEB, Lighthouse Christian each month at 6:00 pm. 101 Martin Luther King Dr. Monthly Detachment of Erath, La. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Academy (Abbeville). Guillot Rd., Youngsville, LA Erath American Legion Meeting 2nd Thursday of holds its meeting every 1st Meets every Thursday Thursday: Honey Bears 70592. For more information Meeting Post #279 meets every month at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday of the month at at 10:00am in the Erath Head Start (Gueydan), contact: (337) 856-1964 or every second Thursday of Meal served. If you have any 1830 hrs. Meetings are held Library Meeting Room. For Gueydan Guest House or (877) 852-1964. www.abi- the month at the American questions call Sect. Garland at American Legion Post 29 more information, call Abbeville Head Start, Harvest center.com. Support groups Legion Home, 605 N. Gin Bolden Sr. 337-255-6286. in Abbeville. We are marines 337-573-7053. TOPS is an Time (Abbeville), Little People are provided free of charge. St., Erath (off of the by-pass). helping marines. All marines international weight loss Day care (Abbeville). A meal is served beginning Kaplan Knights of active, reserve, or former support group. Alcoholics Anonymous, at 6:00 p.m. If you are a Columbus Council 2913 marines and any corpsman American Legion Narconon meets daily at Veteran, whether male or meets on the third Monday of that served in FMF are wel- N A Spokesman to meet LeJeune-Boudreaux Post 12:00 noon and 7:00 p.m. female, and are interested in the month at 6:30 p.m. at the come to attend. FMI call about your addiction. 271 in Kaplan holds its reg- Alanon meets Monday and joining the American Legion, K. C. home. Meal is served Glenn Suire (337() 893-8164. Call for an appointment, ular meetings on the last Thursday at 12:00 noon. please contact us at 337-937- before meeting. ED 337-417-0582 Wednesday of every month. People with drug addictions 5675. You would be wel- NAACP Vermilion Meetings start at 6:00 p.m. at can call Narconon at 1-337- comed as a valued member Kaplan Lions Club Meets Parish Unit #6276-B monthly the Legion Home. A meal is 991-0830. of the American Legion and on the Second Thursday of meeting every 4th Saturday

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Page 10 Sports Wednesday, April 7, 2021 Pirates still in hunt for district title with season winding down

The Kaplan Pi- offs. A district cham- by Brett Guidry, and rates had no trouble pionship goes hand in a double by Peyton on offens, winning big hand with that.” Ford. over Westgate 10-2 on Going into Tues- Ford took the win Saturday. day’s game, Kaplan for the Pirates. The The win improved was at No. 22 in pow- pitcher surrendered Kaplan to 3-1 in dis- er rankings in Class two runs on five hits trict and 10-11 over- 3A. over seven innings, all. On Saturday, the striking out 12 and KHS has seven Pirates got on the walking zero. games left to play. board in the first- in The Pirates scat- On Tuesday on ning. Caden Campisi tered eight hits in the road, the Kaplan singled on a 2-1 count, the game. Guidry and Pirates played Crow- scoring one run. Ford each managed ley. It was a big game The Pirates pulled two hits for the Pi- because Kaplan is 3-1 away for good with rates. in the district, and one run in the third Other Pirates with Crowley was 4-0. inning. In the third hits were Campisi, Si- mon, Landon Berryhi- A win by Kaplan Reece Hardee’s sac flyll and Landon Cheek. could put the Pirates scored one run for the Kaplan beat St. in a two-way tie for Pirates. Martinville 13-2 last first with Crowley. The Pirates scored week. Pitcher Grant Kaplan head coach five runs in the fifth Campbell got the win. Tyler Domingue said, inning. The big in- “We are preaching ev- ning was thanks to a ery game matters at single by Bronson Si- Grant Campbell pitched Kaplan to a 13-2 victory against St. Martinville. He this point for the play- mon, a fielder’s choice pitched six innings and struck out nine.

UL’s Roccaforte receives Sun Belt Award

LAFAYETTE – After breaking a school record and collecting multiple multi-hit games last week, Car- son Roc- caforte has been named the Sun Belt Player of the Week, the league Alyssa Boutte office - an nounced on Carson Tuesday Roccaforte Lady morning. Roccaforte etched Bobcats his name into the Loui- siana record book this rally to nip past week by becoming the first player in school Patterson history to swipe five After falling behind bases in a single game. 4-0 after three innings, The freshman also hit the Lady Bobcats of Erath .471 in four games, -col stormed back and scored lecting two-straight nine runs in the final four four-hit games against innings en route to a 9-8 Coastal Carolina and win over Patterson. ULM. Heading into the top of Not only did he break the sixth frame, Erath was the school record for down 8-4. But the Lady single game stolen bas- Bobcats’ bats exploded and es, he even scored five Erath scored five runs to runs on the week. With make it a 9-8 game with his impressive showing one more inning to play. at the plate, Roccaforte Big hits for EHS in the climbed the Sun Belt top of the sixth frame were Kaplan pitcher Carina Chargois struck out 15 Central Catholic batters on Monday. rankings, moving into by Aubrey Desormeaux, 10th place in total bat- Reigh Landry and a double ting average (.337) and by Courtney Dubois. seventh place in total Landry finished the hits (37). game with three hits, in- Louisiana is back in cluding two doubles and a action on Tuesday night home run. against Nicholls for first Dubois had a double Pitching Battle pitch scheduled at 6:00 and a home run. p.m. at M.L. ‘Tigue’ Desormeaux had two Moore Field at Russo hits and one was for a tri- Park. ple. Central Catholic, Kaplan pitchers Erath used two pitch- FOLLOW THE RA- ers. Alyssa Boutte threw GIN’ CAJUNS the first three innings andcombine to strike out 29 batters For the latest up- Landry fired the final four. Central Catholic was just a Central Catholic batters A single by Kinley Duhon in dates on Ragin’ Ca- The two pitchers gave little better than the Class 3A struck out 15 times, and Kaplan’s the fifth inning was positive juns for baseball, follow on up five hits. Kaplan Lady Pirates on Monday. batters struck out 14. Kaplan. Kaplan’s only other hit Facebook (RaginCajun- With the win, EHS Central Catholic shut down Kaplan falls to 21-4 overall was by lead-off freshman Ken- sBaseball), Twitter (@ improves to 11-13 overall Kaplan’s bats en route to a 2-0 and falls to No. 2 in the latest nedy Marceaux. RaginCajunsBSB) and and is ranked at No. 20 in non-district win. Class 3A power rankings. Grant Chargois took the loss for Ka- Instagram (@RaginCa- the latest Class 3A power Kaplan and Central Catholic (16-4) is at No. 1. plan. The right-hander went six junsBSB) or check Rag- ranking. combined for four hits. Pitcher Carina Chargois and a third innings, allowing one inCajuns.com. The two pitchers also com- started the game for Kaplan and run on two hits, striking out 15 bined to strike out 29 batters. recorded 19 outs. and walking one.

Get ready: fishing, hunting licenses may increase in near future

(The Center Square) – The heads said it would raise an additional $17 Montoucet said. “I’m back.” of two state agencies – one in charge million annually. Chuck Carr Brown, head of the of hunting and fishing, the other Department of Environmental Qual- overseeing environmental protec- Declining mineral revenue and ity, said he plans to propose fee in- tion – told the Senate Finance Com- people buying lifetime licenses are creases for companies DEQ regu- mittee they intend to seek higher among the main reasons for the rev- lates. fees. enue decline, officials said. “We actually have some fees that Jack Montoucet, who leads Loui- Fees paid by users, not general only are $50,” he said. “We can’t siana’s Department of Wildlife and taxes, typically have funded his de- even pay our people with those types Fisheries, wants to raise the price of partment, and Montoucet said that’s of fees.” user fees such as the cost of recre- the way it should be. Brown said the department ational hunting and fishing licenses. “Our programs are user-pay,” he wants to implement higher mini- He said the fees have not been ad- said. “If you use the resources, you mum fees look at increasing “ton- justed in 20 years even though the pay for the resources.” nage fees” from companies that emit department has taken on additional Montoucet said he proposed re- air pollutants, in hopes of generat- duties. structuring fees in 2018 but was ing an additional $5 million per year Gov. John Bel Edwards has in- shot down by lawmakers who said to “prop the department up through cluded a $17 million infusion in histhe fund that supports the depart- the end of this administration and proposed budget for next fiscal yearment wasn’t empty. through the next.” as a short-term fix. Montoucet didn’t “The Legislature said, ‘You’ve Raising fees requires the approv- lay out the details of his fee increase still got money in your Conserva- al of at least two-thirds of the mem- proposal, which the Louisiana Legis- tion Fund. When you don’t have bers in the House and Senate. It is about to get more expensive to lature would have to approve, but he any money, come back and see us,’ ” hunt in Louisiana if fees increase.