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Campbell Camille Shepard

Thu, 06/12/2025 - 2:43pm

August 16, 2023 ~ June 9, 2025

With broken hearts and unending love, we share the passing of our precious daughter, Campbell Camille Shepard, affectionately known by our family as Camby, Campbell Wamble, Nut, Monkey, Sissy, and CC, who left this world on June 9, 2025, far too soon at just under two years old.
Though her time with us was brief, Campbell’s spirit was larger than life. She had a big personality, infectious laughter, radiant smile, and joyful energy that brought sunshine into our lives. She was a little spark who made every moment brighter. Campbell loved to dance, especially to her favorite shows, The Wiggles and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, twirling with delight. She adored her three older sisters—Lennon, Finley, and Miller—and followed them with fierce determination and admiration. Whether it was kicking a soccer ball, swinging a bat, dancing in the living room, or even tagging along into timeout, Camby never missed a beat. She tried to do it all—just like her sisters—because to her, they were everything.
Her bond with each of them was unique and deep. Lennon carried her around like a little mama, Finley delighted in tickling her to make her giggle, and Miller was eager to be the first to wake her each morning by climbing into the crib. Campbell was the final piece of our family puzzle, the one who made it feel truly whole. Her absence is immeasurable, but so is the love she leaves behind.
Campbell's legacy is one of joy, light, and the purest kind of love. Though we will miss her every day, we are forever grateful for the time we had with her. She taught us to love more deeply, laugh more freely, and cherish every single moment.
Forever our baby, forever our heart.
We love you always, Camby.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12 p.m., Saturday, June 14, 2025, at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church honoring the life of Campbell Camille Shepard. Fr. Louis Richard will officiate at the funeral mass. Burial will follow at St. Alphonsus Cemetery in Maurice. Pallbearers will be Grant Shepard, August Bertrand, Hank Bertrand and Wyatt Bertrand. Honorary pallbearer will be Jansen Trahan.
A visitation will take place at Vincent Funeral Home of Abbeville, 209 S. Saint Charles St., Abbeville on Friday, June 13, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a rosary to be prayed at 7 p.m.; by Roy Bertrand, IV and will continue on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 9:00 AM until 11:45 AM when the procession will depart for the church.
She is survived by her parents, Clinton and Taylor Trahan Shepard; three sisters, Lennon Marie Shepard, Finley Cecile Shepard, and Miller Elise Shepard; maternal grandparents, Dr. David and Gwen Bertrand Trahan; and paternal grandparents, Dr. John and Gayle Jones Shepard; Uncle Grant and Aunt Bailey Shepard, cousins Mary Margaret and Caroline Shepard; Aunts Courtney and Laura Loughmiller, cousins Parker and Penn Loughmiller; Uncle Jansen Trahan and Silas Anderson; and godfather Roy Bertrand IV and godmother Alexis Bertrand.
Our family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the incredible medical teams who cared for Campbell with such dedication and compassion: the emergency team at Lafayette General ER, the PICU staff at Our Lady of Lourdes Women's and Children's Hospital, and the PICU team at Manning's Children’s Hospital. Their tireless efforts and tender care during our most difficult moments will never be forgotten. We also extend our deepest love and appreciation to Mrs. Melissa "Nana" Simon, who lovingly cared for Campbell every day. Nana was a constant source of joy and comfort in Campbell’s life, and we are forever thankful for the special bond they shared.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Vermilion Catholic, a Legacy of Mount Carmel, 425 Park Avenue Abbeville, LA 70510 or Our Lady of Lourdes Women's and Children's Hospital, 4600 Ambassador Caffery Pkwy Lafayette, LA 70508, In memory of Campbell Camille Shepard.
All funeral arrangements are being conducted by Vincent Funeral Home - Abbeville (337) 893-4661.

Damien Deblanc

Roberta Comeaux

Vermilion Parish: Two arrested after traffic stop results in search of nearby residence

Thu, 06/12/2025 - 2:34pm

According to Vermilion Parish Sheriff Eddie Langlinais, on June 6, the Vermilion Municipal and Sheriff’s Narcotics Task Force conducted a traffic stop that lead to probable cause being established to search a nearby residence.
A warrant was obtained and the residence was searched. As a result of the traffic stop and subsequent search of the residence, agents arrested two individuals for narcotics offenses and alleged cockfighting.
Damien Deblanc, 43, was arrested and charged with the following:
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II (Cocaine)
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II (Fentanyl)
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II (Methamphetamine)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Possession of Schedule II (Adderall)
• Cockfighting
• Possession of Schedule III (Buprenorphine)

Roberta Comeaux, 40, was arrested and charged with the following:
• Possession of Schedule II (Cocaine)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Simple Littering
As a result of the investigation and arrest, agents seized the following:
• Approximately 3.2 grams of suspected Methamphetamine
• Approximately 12.4grams of suspected Cocaine and Crack Cocaine
• 2 1⁄2 Buprenorphine pills
• Approximately 2 grams of Fentanyl and Cocaine mixture
• 2 suspected Adderall
• Various drug paraphernalia items including scales and packaging for distribution
• Evidence of suspected cockfighting

Sheriff Eddie Langlinais reminds the citizens of Vermilion Parish that this is an ongoing investigation and all suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty. Information on how to anonymously report illegal activities can be found on our website at www.VermilionSheriff.gov. Click on Anonymous Tips and fill out the Crime Stoppers of Vermilion Tip Form to submit information. You can also report illegal activity anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers tip line at (337) 740-TIPS (8477) or by downloading and logging in to the P3 App where you can earn a cash reward.

Kaplan pitcher Lexi Greene holds her Player of the Year plaque.

Kaplan coach Brittney LeBeouf holds her Coach of the Year award.

Kaplan's Lexi Greene named Player of the Year

Wed, 06/11/2025 - 10:12am

Kaplan's LeBeouf selected Coach of the Year

KAPLAN — The 2025 softball season started with little expectations for the Vermilion Parish softball teams, almost like their motto was “whatever happens, happens.”
For one team heading into the 2025 season, there was no heavy weight on their shoulders like the previous two years. The Lady Pirates were coming off a season in which they failed to defend their Division III, Non-Select state title despite returning most of their senior-strong lineup from the previous year.
The 2024 KHS team had many seniors who played in seven out of the nine positions. As a result, 2025 would be a year for Kaplan to rebuild. However, no one told them.
Instead, the Lady Pirates won 29 games, stunned a few teams along the way, and reached Sulphur the year after the senior-led group had not.
They accomplished all this with a solid group of freshmen, sophomores, and a sprinkling of juniors and seniors.
Because of that, Kaplan head coach Brittney LeBeouf is named the Vermilion Parish Softball Coach of the Year. While it may have been the most relaxed season to coach, LeBeouf said Kaplan worked hard to accomplish its goals.
“There was no pressure on us like in years past,” said LeBeouf, who has won parish coach of the year two out of the last three years. “We have had some talented teams come through, but the pressure got to us in the past. They played not to lose but instead to win. Pressure burst pipes.”
The Lady Pirates began the 2025 year by winning six straight before losing back-to-back games against Division I teams that had a combined regular-season record of 46-12.
Then, Kaplan proceeded to win 21 straight regular-season games and was the top seed in the Division III, Non-Select playoffs when the playoffs began. In the semifinal game, the Lady Pirates faced a hot Doyle team that upset them and went on to win the state championship.
Looking back at the season, Coach LeBeouf described the year as “Phenomenal.”
“We went 29-3. They did a great job,” she said about her team.
One of those freshmen and sophomores who rose to the occasion was sophomore left-hand pitcher Lexi Greene. Greene saw some action on the hill last year behind then-senior pitcher Briley LeBeouf.
Briley graduated, leaving the weight to carry the team on the arm of Greene.
Greene came through in a big way. Her overall record was 27-3, with 259 strikeouts and an earned run average of under two.
Her hard work earned her the title of Vermilion Parish Softball Player of the Year. She is the second person in her family to receive a Parish Player of the Year award.
Her father, Marcus Greene, a graduate of KHS, was named the parish’s Basketball Player of the Year in 2001. Additionally, her mother, Danielle, won the parish Coach of the Year award in 2011 while coaching girls’ basketball at Kaplan.
Winning the Vermilion Parish Player of the Year award never entered her mind because she did not know there was an award.
“I am grateful for this,” Greene said. “To be honest, I did not know this award existed.”
It is the fifth year in a row that a Lady Pirate won the Vermilion Parish Player of the Year award. Shortstop Kennedy Marceaux won it all four years she was in high school.
Greene said her success this year began long before the 2025 season started. She began preparing for 2025 last year when she pitched behind Briley LeBeouf.
“My freshman year, I was an out-of-control pitcher,” said Greene. “I worked on getting more consistent last year.”
With new faces on the field, it put some pressure on her to try and strike out every batter she faced.
“There was some pressure on me,” she said. “But I also knew I had a good group of girls who had my back. We all needed to step up, including me.”
Coach LeBeouf said it is no accident Greene struck out 259 batters.
“Lexi is a workhorse. She puts in the time,” said Coach LeBeouf. “There was no doubt in my mind she would be ready when we needed her to be ready. And, she was.”
Even though the Lady Pirates lost to Doyle in the semifinal game, Coach LeBeouf mentioned that it would have a positive impact on Greene.
“Lexi took the Doyle loss hard. I think it will make her a better pitcher,” said Coach LeBeouf. “When we step on the field in 2026, she will be a different pitcher than this year. She will continue to work hard to improve every day. That separates a good player from a great player.”
She not only could pitch, but Greene was a solid hitter. In 32 games, she had a .485 batting average. She had five home runs, two triples, 16 doubles, 27 singles, and knocked in 35 runs. Plus, she stole a team-high 33 bases.
The Lady Pirates landed eight players on the all-parish first team. They are catcher Addyson Hebert (.342 average, 29 RBI, 10 HR), first baseman Abbigale Ford (.406 average, 59 RBI, 6 HR), second baseman Baleigh Landry (.342, 30 RBI, 1 HR), and third baseman Cheyanne Breaux (.280, 21 RBI, 1 HR).
Other Kaplan first-teamers are Emma Sherman (.321, 31 RBI, 6 HR) as the designated hitter, Drew Kass (.244, 21 RBI) in the outfield, and Liberty Greene (.326, 21 RBI, 3 HR, 18 stolen bases) as a utility player.
North Vermilion landed four first-teamers, including shortstop Emerson Kelly, pitcher Kallie Gibson, outfielder Nylah Harrison, and utility player Zoe Harrington.
Players on the first team include utility players Jenna-Beth Hagle and Ali Broussard from VC, along with Sarinity Wallace from Abbeville. Kayleigh Perro from Erath is recognized as an all-parish outfielder.

Summer Sandwiches

Wed, 06/11/2025 - 10:04am

Sandwiches are so handy in summer. With so many options, try some of these. In a cooler, they will last for hours.

RED MEAT ON RYE

Delicious Pumpernickel/Rye

INGREDIENTS

-1 tbsp olive oil
-1 large onion, thinly sliced
-Kosher salt to taste
-1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
-1 lb ground chuck
-8 slices rye bread
-4 tbsp mayonnaise
-4 (1 oz) slices white American cheese torn into pieces
-4 (1 oz) slices Swiss Cheese
-4 tbsp salted butter, divided

INSTRUCTIONS

- Mise en place.
-Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
-Add onions.
-Sprinkle with salt.
- Cook 20 minutes, stirring often, until well browned.
-While onions cook, blend butter and Worcestershire sauce with ground meat.
-Divide into 4 patties.
-Press each into a thin patty the size of your sandwich bread.
-Flatten each between 2 pieces of parchment paper.
-Sprinkle evenly with salt.
-Cook patties two at a time, pressing slightly, until just pink in the middle, about 2 or 3 minutes per side.
-Remove from pan.
-Wipe pan clean.
-To assemble sandwiches, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outsides of each piece of bread.
-Divide American cheese slices among 4 slices of rye spacing evenly on the inside of bread slices.
-Top each with a burger patty.
-Swiss cheese is now the top.
-Finish with remaining bread slices.
-Melt 2 tbsp butter in the sauce pan.
-Place 2 sandwiches and cook over medium until browned on each side and cheese is melted, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
-Repeat with remaining sandwiches.
-Serve with salad made with ingredients usually found on a burger, like lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and raw onions. I often use plain mayonnaise as a salad dressing, and here is a good time to try this. Prepare the salad early enough to be ready when burgers are ready.
-Serve burgers immediately.

Two Sundays ago Jacob and Hannah came over with ingredients for Sunday sandwiches. Included were 2 loaves of deli baked bread, Hellman’s mayonnaise, French’s mustard in glass jars*, dill pickles, Swiss cheese, American cheese slices, romaine lettuce, and sliced raw onions. The cold cuts provided were uncured smoked ham, honey ham, turkey breast, roast beef, sliced rotisserie chicken, and salami.
We each chose our favorites, and we could have them hot if we wanted.
I loved the rotisserie chicken, and I also had two slices of ham on mine.
Boo called them Bougie Sandwiches, and we created extravagant and delicious Cajun Subs.
*I buy French’s Mustard online three small glass jars at a time. This is much better than those upside down containers where water is most of the first squirt.

PINEAPPLE SANDWICH

Recommended by Southern Living.
Claimed to be a familiar southern treat.

INGREDIENTS

-2 slices soft, white sandwich bread
-2 tbsp mayonnaise
-4 canned, sliced pineapple rings, drained and blotted dry.

INSTRUCTIONS

-Mise en place.
-Spread one side of each bread slice generously with mayonnaise.
-Arrange pineapple rings over the mayonnaise on each slice of bread by breaking the rings open arranging them so they fit within the bread.
-Break pieces from other pineapple rings into wedges for filling in spaces.
-Place the other slices of mayonnaise-covered bread on top of the pineapple.
-Serve immediately.
If you doubt me, make one sandwich at a time and get that delicious salty sweet flavor that I love. I think you will love it too.
*Southern Living claims pineapple sandwiches are a well loved and frequent treat in the South. I make pineapple sandwiches, because I will eat almost anything on bread. My friends think this is just ONE of my idiosyncrasies.
I don’t think pineapple sandwiches are commonplace, certainly not in our Cajun community. If you have ever enjoyed or know of someone who enjoys this deliciousness, please let me know.

BILLIE’S PASS CHRISTIAN SANDWICH

Salty sweet again.

INGREDIENTS

-1 slice steak bacon, or your choice
-1 medium ripe banana, sliced
-2 slices your favorite bread
-Mayonnaise of choice

INSTRUCTIONS

-Mise en place.
-Cook the bacon. I used the leftover bacon Boo cooked for his breakfast.
-Spread mayonnaise on both slices of bread. My favorites are Hellman’s Mayo and Delightful Whole Wheat Bread.
-Cover 1/2 of one slice of bread with a slice of bacon.
-Place short slices of banana next to the bacon.
-Lay the other slice of bread in place on top.
Now you can do whatever your sense of adventure takes you.
Put bacon all the way across a slice of mayonnaise-covered bread. Cover the bacon with banana, other slice on top.
Total salty sweet.
You can also use butter instead of mayo, which is quite tasty.
Toasted bread mildly changes the texture and taste.
As with other sandwiches, add mayo, bacon, and bananas on top of first sandwich and one more slice of bread.
You have a triple decker!

MARSHMALLOW WRAPS

Summer in house campsite sandwiches.
S’mores without a fire.

INGREDIENTS

-16 large marshmallows
-1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
-1/4 cup granulated sugar
-2 tbsp cinnamon
-2 (8 oz) cans crescent roll dough

INSTRUCTIONS

-Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
-Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
-Unroll crescent roll dough.
-Separate each roll along perforations.
-Roll marshmallows into melted butter.
-Now roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
-Place one coated marshmallow in middle of an unrolled dough segment.
-Roll the marshmallow until completely covered by dough, pushing in sides as you go.
-Pinch seams on either end to seal each roll.
-Place each roll, evenly spaced, on baking sheet.
-Bake for about 12 minutes.
-Immediately brush roll with remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
-Serve warm.

I am in Perdido Key as you read this. Sunshine, great beach breezes, Louisiana people sitting next to us on the beach, and five friends that have been doing this for 14 years.

Tuesday was my birthday, and I was feted with a Doberge cake, half lemon and half chocolate, after a delicious dinner prepared by Crazy Liz. Wednesday was our shopping and lunch day. We tried a seafood/burger restaurant where my friends treated me to lunch. We had perfect bushwackers for dessert. This restaurant is on next year’s schedule.
We will be traveling home with a lot more than we came with, and we were fully loaded on our way in. I bought a lovely, unique oyster wind chime. The oysters are gradient in size getting smaller and smaller and more delicate at the bottom.
Jusqu’a la semaine prochaine!

billielandry@iosinces.com

Christopher Moorehart

Vermilion Parish: Former police officer will be spending 60 years in prison for raping 6-year-old

Wed, 06/11/2025 - 9:56am

Former police officer Christopher Moorehart will be 92 years old upon his release from state prison after being sentenced by 15th Judicial District Judge Thomas Frederick on Monday.
Judge Frederick sentenced Moorehart to 30 years for each of his two second-degree rape charges, to which he pled guilty in February.
The sentences will be served consecutively, requiring at least 30 years for each. Moorehart is in his early 30s and will be 92 years old in 60 years.
Assistant District Attorney Celeste White prosecuted the case on behalf of the state.
“I am very pleased with the sentence,” she said. “This is one of the top two sex crimes I have been a part of. Plus, he is a former police officer.”
Moorehart was charged with raping a five-year-old girl for months. The rapes occurred with the girl’s mother also in the bed, along with Moorehart.
The girl was taken away from her biological mother and was eventually adopted.
Before the sentencing, the young parents of the girl confronted Moorehart when they took the stand in court and addressed him face to face.
The new mom said her new daughter refers to Moorehart as a “monster.”
“She fears the dark,” said the new mom. “She has to sleep with all of the lights on because she wants the bad monster to stay away. She fears he will come again.”
The new mom promises her daughter that she will never see the monster because he is locked in prison.
The new dad also had the opportunity to speak with Moorehart.
Moorehart is a former Kaplan and Delcambre Police Officer.
“You gave your oath to protect and serve,” said the new father. “You betrayed that oath.”
Before the sentencing, a letter was read to Moorehart from the young girl.
“Why did it start?
“Why me?”
“Did you ever love me.”
The new mom closed with, “She is smart and a brave girl. You have not won. She will survive!”

Dr. Joseph C. Kite

Wed, 06/11/2025 - 9:49am

It is with great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Dr. Joseph C. Kite at the age of 93. After spending his entire life in Vermilion Parish, he retired and spent his final years in Richardson, Texas close to many members of his large and devoted family.
Joe was born in Kaplan, Louisiana to Modeste (Maude) Eugenie Guidry Kite and Hubert Addison Kite, the youngest of six children. He graduated from Kaplan High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically, becoming the first student to earn scholarships in both football and basketball. He continued his education at McNeese Junior College and Southeastern Louisiana Institute (now UL), graduating in 1952 with a BS in Education. In 1964, Joe earned a Ph.D. from LSU, making him the first educator in Vermilion Parish to achieve that honor. Following his graduation, Joe proudly served his country in the US Air Force. He is a Korean War Veteran, serving 2 years of Active Duty, and 18 years in the Reserves.
Joe went on to have a successful and impactful career in public education where he mentored and inspired many students. After retirement, he continued to contribute in the private sector bringing his leadership to a new chapter of work. He remained active in professional and civic organizations including American Legion, Knights of
Columbus, and Louisiana Heart Association. A man of many passions, Joe embraced life fully and stayed physically active well into his later years. He especially loved golf, tennis, gardening, reading and spending time with his family. Each of his children carries forward a piece of his enthusiasm for these pursuits.
Joe married Florence May Hebert in 1952 and together they raised 8 children in Kaplan: Beryl Cecelia Kite Hebert (Michael), Charles Douglas Kite (Kim), Karen Joette Kite Sirmon (Steve), Karla Theresa Kite, Karol Adele Kite Richardson (Bob), Kathryn Rose Kite Gutterman (Charles), Kurt David Kite (Eileen), Kristopher John Kite (Sally). In 1980 Joe married Debra Ann Husband and they made their home in Abbeville with their son, Stuart Joseph Kite, (Summer).
Joe is survived by all 9 of his children: Beryl, Doug, Joette, Karla, Karol, Kathy, Kurt, Kris and Stuart; as well as many beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, each of whom was a source of joy and pride. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Debra Kite, his parents Maude and Hubert, his siblings Cecilia Kite Fabre, Mark Kite, James Kite, Beth Kite Martens, Albert Roy Kite, and his son-in-law John Stephen Sirmon, Sr.
A Memorial Service for family and friends will be held in Abbeville at Magdalen Place (2 S Magdalen Square, Abbeville, LA 70510) June 21st, 2025, from 10:30 am – 1:30 pm. Joe and Debbie’s final resting place will be in Little Elm, Texas.

Dillon “Sonny” Chrisman

Tue, 06/10/2025 - 1:01pm

ABBEVILLE — A Mass of Christian Burial for Mr. Dillon “Sonny” Chrisman, 82, will be held at St. Theresa Catholic Church on Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. François Sainte-Marie officiating. Interment will follow at St. Alphonsus Cemetery.
Visitation will begin at 4 p.m., on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Frioux-David Funeral Home of Abbeville and continue until 9 p.m. A Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 6 p.m.
Visitation will reopen at 10 a.m., on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Frioux-David Funeral Home of Abbeville and continue until the time of service.
A long-time resident of Abbeville, Mr. Dillon “Sonny” Chrisman, passed away on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Mr. Dillon selflessly served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War where he spent time on the USS George C. Marshall before taking his leave in 1969. A man of many talents, he was known for being someone you could go to for anything that needed fixing, and he prided himself on his woodworking skills. Dillon cherished the time he got to spend fishing in places like White Lake and the Atchafalaya Basin. He also enjoyed visiting his family farm in Ohio. Above all, he loved spending time with his family. He will be deeply missed by many.
Dillon “Sonny” Chrisman is survived by his wife of 59 years, Gloria Doucet Chrisman of Rayne, LA; one son, Dillon Shannon Chrisman and his wife Jennifer A. of Abbeville; one daughter, Cherie Ann Burton and her husband, Glenn Joseph Burton of Abbeville; two grandchildren, Brant Michael Guidry and Brooke Victoria Chrisman; and two sisters, Deborah Kay Schiller of Utica, Ohio and Dixie Lee Segnar of Council Bluffs, Iowa.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dillon Arlo Chrisman and Bessie Belle Chrisman.
Pallbearers will be Dillon S. Chrisman, Glenn Burton, Joey Abshire, Brant Guidry, Travis Loftin, and Toby Jones.
You may sign the guest register book and express condolences online at www.friouxfunerals.com
Frioux-David Funeral Home of Abbeville, 2600 Charity Street, (337) 893-3777 will be handling the arrangements.

The Abbeville Police Department is searching for this white Cadillac SUV.

Abbeville Police Department searching for Cadillac SUV allegedly involved in shooting

Tue, 06/10/2025 - 11:43am

Vehicle was seen at shooting in Abbeville

On June 8, at around 9 p.m., , the Abbeville Police Department responded to a shots fired call at the corner of Dutil and Franks Alley.
The police received eight other complaints about shots fired in that area.
The suspects were Southbound on Dutil in a white Cadillac SUV. Three occupants of the SUV exited the vehicle and shot an excess of 40 rounds at two people in parked cars.
Both victims were struck in the leg area. They were transported to Abbeville General where they were stabilized and transported to another local area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The Abbeville Police Department is seeking the white Cadillac SUV .
This case is still actively under investigation and Chief Mike Hardy urges the public to provide any further information regarding this crime or any other crime by calling the Abbeville Police Department at (337) 893-2511.
You may also contact our “Tips” line at (337) 892-6777. All callers may remain anonymous. Citizens may also send anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers of Vermilion by calling (337) 740-TIPS or the P3 app, which can be downloaded through the Apple App Store or at Google Play Store.

Donna Ricard

Medicare Advantage is Good for Louisiana Seniors

Mon, 06/09/2025 - 9:44pm

Donna G. Ricard, MSW

Access to low-cost, high-quality health care coverage is one of the most important factors in determining quality of life for tens of millions of seniors in Louisiana and across the country. That’s why past and potential future cuts to the Medicare Advantage program are so concerning.

As an Advocate & Community Engagement Specialist, I help connect seniors to the essential services they need. Through my involvement with local councils on aging and community agencies, I’ve seen firsthand how access to Medicare Advantage can be life-changing for some of our most vulnerable and medically at-risk neighbors.

Medicare Advantage plays a vital role in reaching low-income, minority, and traditionally underserved communities. The population it serves is notably more diverse than those enrolled in original Medicare. One study found that 65% of Black seniors and nearly 70% of Latino seniors choose Medicare Advantage over fee-for-service options.

It’s easy to see why. Medicare Advantage plans offer more comprehensive benefits, including built-in coverage for prescription drugs, dental, hearing, and vision care, often with little or no monthly premium. Dental is one of the most sought out benefits along with the Extra Benefit card, where seniors can purchase healthy foods or OTC (Over-the-Counter) items. These plans also provide flexibility, allowing seniors to adapt their benefits as their needs change.

The program emphasizes preventive care and includes innovative services that improve health outcomes and quality of life—such as meal delivery, in-home support, fitness benefits, and transportation to medical appointments.

Today, more than 34 million Americans are enrolled in Medicare Advantage, including nearly 540,000 in Louisiana. That’s more than half of our Medicare-eligible population. Keeping this program strong is critical as enrollment continues to grow.

Beyond its benefits to individuals, Medicare Advantage supports entire communities. Caregivers, families, providers, and local businesses all benefit when seniors are healthier and more active. Given the program’s impact, it’s disappointing that it hasn’t always received consistent support from lawmakers in Washington.

Under the previous administration, Medicare Advantage faced years of cuts from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which threatened to weaken benefits and raise premiums. Fortunately, the most recent CMS rate update includes a payment increase of just over 5% for 2026—the first meaningful step forward in years, and a sign that the Trump Administration appreciates the value that this program delivers every day.

This progress is welcome, but more must be done to reverse previous cuts and protect the program for the future. We urge Senator Bill Cassidy and House Speaker Mike Johnson to continue advocating for Louisiana’s seniors and work to strengthen Medicare Advantage for the long term.

Brady Broussard Jr., joined by his wife, Reba, presents a proclamation to Pascal Demarthe, the mayor of Abbeville, France. Broussard, who serves on the Abbeville City Council, recently visited France as part of a Rotary International trip. Abbeville Mayor Roslyn White and members of the city council signed the proclamation.

Brady Broussard Jr., along with his wife, Reba, re-connects with College’ Vivian Maier students. The students visited Vermilion Parish in 2024.

Brady Broussard Jr. poses for a photo with Abbeville France Rotary Club secretary Claire Jaladis, who hosted an event at her home. Jaladis excitedly found Broussard during the event when she learned he is member of the Rotary Club of Abbeville, La. She let Broussard know that she met longtime members Lloyd Doré III and Dan Dartez many years ago.

Brady Broussard Jr., councilman and mayor pro-tem in Abbeville, La., takes a photo with Jean-Marie Leroy, a French military officer. Broussard said Leroy happily sought him out to take the photo during an event in France.

Visiting Abbeville, France

Mon, 06/09/2025 - 1:35pm

Broussard takes part in Rotary Club trip

Brady Broussard Jr. has a deep connection to Abbeville.
Broussard’s father served as mayor for 20 years; he has represented District C since 2011 and is a member of the Rotary Club of Abbeville, having recently held the role of club president.
Broussard recently brought that love for his home city to another Abbeville, a much older one located across the Atlantic Ocean. Broussard visited Abbeville, France, as part of a Rotary International trip.
During the trip, Broussard and fellow Rotarians met with officials from Abbeville, France. That occurred on May 27.
“A ceremony was held in the salon of Legion of Honor at city hall for arrival of our entourage,” Broussard said, “to meet with Mayor Pascal Demarthe, his chief of staff Sebastian Colombel, Deputy Mayor Danielle Vasseur, municipal staff, citizens, dignitaries, military officials, Rotarians from there, region and America, and media.”
Planning for the event began much earlier.
“The planning and repeated Zoom meetings that led to this perfectly orchestrated event began in June of 2024,” Broussard said. “It’s important to note the huge role that Rotary International plays in the world. For without this assistance, it could not have been that tremendous success for all in attendance.”
Broussard credited Rotarians, including Bart Cleary, DDS, Rotary Club of Oxford North Carolina, President of USA Section of USA-France Intercountry Committee for Peace, who also served as translator and “wonderful ambassador” on Broussard’s behalf, Jean-Marie Poinsard, Rotary Club of Melun Fr. and President of the France Section of USA-France Intercountry Committee for Peace.
“It is Rotary that makes it possible to create connections between people and countries in the hope of making the world more peaceful,” Broussard said.
While there, Broussard helped to make a stronger bond between the two Abbevilles. Broussard made a presentation that included a proclamation signed by Mayor Roslyn White and the Abbeville City Council, along with a city flag.
“The proclamation from Mayor (White) and council was read aloud and translated perfectly,” Broussard said. “Our beautiful city flag was unfolded to ‘ooohs and ahhs’ in the audience. I also presented the booklet that described our founder, his origins in Abbeville, France, and finally, the struggles to establish our community, called La Chappelle, briefly and ultimately Abbeville (priest city) after requests from the earliest inhabitants of our community. My reminder to the audience is that we share so much together, not just food, language, and culture, but genetics, with our ancestors originating in France.”
Demarthe is encouraged and supportive of twinning the two Abbeville communities for a long and productive relationship.
“Great time of exchange and fellowship with Brady Broussard, Deputy Mayor of Abbeville, Louisiana, USA!” the Abbeville, France, mayor said in a post on social media. “Passing through France, he came to testify to the friendship of his city towards our Ville d’Abbeville and the appreciation that the locals have to the Capuchin father Antoine Désiré Megret, who gave the name of his hometown, our city of Abbeville, to this city founded in Louisiana in 1850. Our two cities are, therefore, linked by a common history and a will to create exchanges for the future.
“Brady Broussard was carrying a message from the mayor of Abbeville, Louisiana, about us. She indeed wishes that our two cities can cooperate in the framework of a strengthened friendship and, why not, a future pairing.”
Broussard offered an invitation to French counterparts. He highlighted fall as a time to visit when events such as the Grand Reveille (Oct. 11 in Magdalen Square), the Louisiana Cattle Festival (Oct. 3-5), and the Giant Omelette Celebration (Nov. 1-2) will take place.
“The individuals who do visit us this Fall will receive the same warm welcome that was given to us,” Broussard said.
Along with new friends, Broussard also met with some familiar faces, a group of college students who visited Vermilion Parish in ‘24. Notably, with the help of their local Rotary Club, the students traveled here to see the town of Gueydan, named after Jean Pierre Gueydan, a native of their hometown in France.
“We met with the Rotary Club of Gap Fr., and that was like old friends at a reunion,” Broussard said. “They are the club that raised large sums of money over two years to send the College’ Vivian Maier students that our Abbeville Rotary Club helped make so comfortable and well fed and ultimately go to Gueydan to see the community that their native Jean Pierre Gueydan founded. Those students were there to receive us and thank us for the great time they had in our Abbeville. They were accompanied by their teacher, Nicolai Cottin, who visited us last year. Not to lose an opportunity to promote our charming community, I invited them to come back.”
Broussard made a presentation to that group, centering on growing closer together by sending French Immersion students and local Rotarians there one year from now.
“They are ecstatic about that and agree our clubs should twin and grow closer,” Broussard said. “We may very well see some of these Gap Rotarians this Fall at one or more festivals. When I told them the local native, Jean Pierre Gueydan, actually opened the first business in our Abbeville, they understood the necessity to stay close and cultural exchanges are essential.”
As deeply as Broussard’s affinity for Abbeville runs, it’s matched by his love for a shared French culture.
“The more each of us who do travel to French-speaking regions of the world,” Broussard said, “the more often we can promote and sell our unique Cajun French culture to insist they come and visit us for our Joie de vivre. If you are skeptical, visit the Abbeville Cultural Center and see the guest book with signatures from Canada, France and several more French language areas of the world.”

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