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Abbeville native Jaimie Hebert

Abbeville's own Jaimie Hebert returning home to work for UL Lafayette

Jaimie L. Hebert, PhD. has been named provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
An Abbeville High School graduate, Hebert holds a bachelor’s, a master’s and a doctorate – all in statistics – from UL Lafayette. He received his bachelor’s in 1986, master’s in 1988 and doctorate in 1990.
He was most recently president of Georgia Southern University. In that role, he led the University System of Georgia’s consolidation of Georgia Southern University with Armstrong State University.
Before his appointment as Georgia Southern president, Hebert was Sam Houston State University’s provost and vice president of Academic Affairs from 2011 to 2016.
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Hebert home,” said UL President Joseph Savoie, PhD. “In addition to his solid higher education credentials, he already is familiar with UL Lafayette’s mission and values. He shares our Ragin’ Cajun spirit.”
“I’m thrilled to return to my alma mater, bringing with me 28 years of experience,” Hebert said. “The University gave me my start and to come back to work at UL Lafayette is rewarding for me personally and professionally.
“UL Lafayette is an extraordinary institution. I’m looking forward to working with the faculty and academic administrators to continue the great progress that the University has seen over the last few decades.”
Hebert will replace David Danahar, PhD., who has served as interim provost at UL Lafayette since Fall 2016. He was not a candidate for the vacancy created by the January 2016 departure of James Henderson, PhD.
Danahar will remain at the University as senior adviser to the president.
“I share the appreciation of many for Dr. Danahar’s contributions over the past two years advancing the University,” Savoie said. “I’m pleased he’ll continue working at the University.”
At Sam Houston State University, Hebert was dean of the College of Arts and Sciences from 2005 to 2011, and chair and professor of statistics in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics from 1999 to 2005. He was an assistant and associate professor of statistics there from 1995 to 1999.
Hebert was an assistant professor of mathematical science at Appalachian State University from 1990 to 1995.
His appointment as UL Lafayette’s provost and vice president for Academic Affairs is effective July 1, pending approval by the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors.

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Heikeem Hebert, 26, died as a result of one bullet that hit him in the chest area.

Another shooting/murder in Abbeville over the weekend

The Abbeville Police Department are investigating another shooting and killing that took place on the streets of Abbeville over the weekend.
Early Saturday morning, Heikeem Hebert, 26, was struck by a bullet in the chest area while heading north on East Street towards Maude Avenue. Hebert was driving a Nissan Altima. After being struck in the chest area by a bullet from a rifle, Hebert went off the road and crashed into the back of a house. There was someone in the home at the time of the crash, but no one was injured.
Hebert was pronounced dead at the scene from a single gun shot wound. There was also a passenger with Hebert that escaped with no injuries.
The Abbeville Police Department did not release the name of the passenger in the car with Hebert.
The police did say the Altima had multiple bullet holes on the side of the car. They located casing of bullets not far from the vehicle.
According to police, Hebert was first on East Street and Seventh Street, which is near Martin Luther King Drive. The police located bullet casings at the intersection of Seventh Street and East Street. The Altima went north and crossed Martin Luther King Street and the same type of casings were located on Martin Luther Street near East Street.
The Abbeville Police Department spent the Memorial Weekend asking questions if anyone saw the shooting down East Street. The phone number to call the police department is 893-2511.
According to Hebert’s facebook page, he went to Lafayette High School and studied at Louisiana Tech.

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Trash and garbage were spread all over the side of the road in Abbeville.

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This business owner thought he had a good idea by telling people they could take whatever they wanted. They took stuff but also spread it all over the road.

Eyesore in Abbeville

A business owner in Abbeville thought he had a bright idea by hauling garbage and trash to the side of the road and then putting up a sign “Free stuff” hoping residents will remove the items. Instead, what began as a small pile of garbage turned into a large one when the residents began going through the “stuff” in a disorderly manner. Neighbors began complaining because items were flying on the street. By Tuesday morning, it was cleaned and the items were placed in a storage bend by the business owner. It is against the law to haul garbage to the side of the road and let it fly all over the streets of Abbeville.

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Mr. and Mrs. Cole David Schexnayder

Claire Disch - Cole Schexnayder exchange wedding vows

Miss Claire Gretchen Disch and Mr. Cole David Schexnayder were married Saturday, May 26, 2018 at Our Lady of the Lake Church in Delcambre, Louisiana.
The bride is the daughter of Bill and Gail Disch of New Iberia.
The groom is the son of Darson and Liz Schexnayder of Delcambre.
Father Steven LeBlanc officiated the 11 a.m. ceremony.
Serving as maid of honor was the sister of the bride, Pam Disch.
Serving as best man was the groom’s brother, Hank Schexnayder.
The two flower girls were Gracie Bodin, godchild of the bride and Addison Bodin, godchild of the groom.
Escorting the two flower girls was James Boutte, godchild of the bride.
A reception was held at L’Eglise in Abbeville with a live band and brunch style food catered by Bon Temps Grill of Lafayette.
Family and friends danced the afternoon away until they sent the bride and groom off around 4 p.m. The couple will honeymoon in Sonoma, Callifornia.
The couple will reside in Erath, LA.

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Mrs. Allen Keith Carpenter

Kristen Richardson - Allen Carpenter united in marriage

Miss Kristen Joy Richardson and Mr. Allen Keith Carpenter were united in marriage on Saturday, May 26, 2018, at Rip Van Winkle Gardens in New Iberia, Louisiana.
The groom’s uncle, Donald Rudd officiated the ceremony.
The bride is the daughter of David and Karen Richardson of Kaplan, Louisiana. She is the granddaughter of Glenn and Lydia “Dee” Richardson of Abbeville, Louisiana; Wallace Broussard of Abbeville, Louisiana; and the late Cynthia Broussard of Lincoln, Nebraska.
Kristen is a 2009 graduate of North Vermilion High School, a 2014 graduate of Northwestern State University, and a 2017 graduate of LSU Law School. She is currently employed as an Assistant Public Defender for East Baton Rouge Office of Public Defenders.
The groom is the son of Karl and Terri Carpenter of Pineville, Louisiana. He is the grandson of the late Thomas and Marty Carpenter of San Antonio, Texas and the late John ‘J.P.’ Rudd and Barbara Rudd of Pineville, Louisiana. He is a 2008 graduate of Pineville High School, a 2014 graduate of Northwestern State University and a 2017 graduate of Louisiana State University. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Brass Performance degree.
Escorted by her father, the bride wore an ivory floor length Madison James gown with layers of lace and a crystal, beaded cap sleeve. She carried a bouquet of garden roses, anemones, and ranunculus accented with eucalyptus and hand tied with an ivory lace ribbon. A lace trimmed fingertip veil completed the look.
Kali Broussard and Caitlin Ardoin attended as matrons of honor. Bridesmaids included Kruz Landry, Dana Thompson, Wesley Winnon, Rachel Rudd, Kathryn Burke, Chelsey Gale and Heather Carpenter. Flower girls were Gwendolyn Carpenter, Chloe Ardoin, and Maddie Ardoin.
Aaron Carpenter attended as best man and Allison Gill attended as best woman. Groomsmen included James Richardson, Joshua Nuss, Matthew Rudd, Wesley Rougeou, Matthew Cooper, Michael Gill. The ring bearers were Jackson Gill and Jude Gill.
A formal reception immediately followed the ceremony.
Following their honeymoon, the couple will reside in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

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Mrs. Lance Paul Stein

Hillarie Hebert becomes Mrs. Lance Paul Stein

Miss Hillarie Paige Hebert, of Abbeville and Mr. Lance Paul Stein, of Ragley, LA, were joined in holy matrimony during a ceremony held Saturday, April 21, 2018, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Kaplan.
Father Matthew Bazarre officiated the 1 p.m. ceremony.
The bride is the daughter of James and Charlsie Hebert. Her grandparents are the late James O. and Florine Hebert of Forked Island; Charles and Danielle Suire of Kaplan and Danny and Margaret Prejean of Kaplan.
The groom is the son of Paul Stein of Lake Charles and Pamala Rogers of Lake Charles.His grandparents are the late Ervin and Rena (Eloise) Stein of Lake Charles.
Vocalists for the wedding were Murphy Guilbeau and William Seaux.
Escorted by her father, the bride wore a gown which was truly ethereal in its delicate detail. The unique lace used for this slim sheath is reminiscent of an antique design, adding a gorgeous textural element. The gown was accented with a beautiful boat neck bodice that flowed into a low back, encrusted with tiny crystals and pearls. The final touch of this remarkable gown would be the buttons, every fourth of which is replaced with a cluster of crystals and pearls which fall all the way down to the scalloped train. She woe a short veil accented with crystals on the edge.
The maid of honor was Alysse Hebert sister of the bride. Matron of honor was Lani Zaunbrecher, friend of the bride. Bridesmaids included Mary Beth Welch, friend of the bride; Kathleen LeBlanc, sister-in-law of the groom; Lisa Stein, sister of the groom; Markie Suire, cousin of the bride and Ali Prejean, cousin of the bride.
The attendants wore lavender flowing long dresses and carried flowers with different shades of purple accented with greenery.
The flower girls were Emma and Camille LeBlanc, daughter of Eric and Kathleen LeBlanc, and Aubrey and Annelise Leblanc, daughter of Scott and Lauren LeBlanc. They wore long cream colored dresses accented with lavender smocking and carried flower balls.
Eric Leblanc, brother of the groom, served as best man. Groomsmen included Scott LeBlanc, brother of the groom; Anthony Cutrera, friend of the groom; Adam Duhon, friend of the groom; Ryan Mitchell friend of the groom; Lance Rider, friend of the groom; Thomas Kent, friend of the groom and Ty Hebert, brother of the bride.
Ring bearers included Brooks Hebert, son of Chuck and Udona Hebert and Kale Vanhorn, son of Lyle and Katie Van Horn.
Ushers were Kenneth Washington, Tyler Duplechain and Mark Deroche.
A reception was held at the Vermilion Fair and Festival Building in Kaplan. The hall was decorated with a pallet all, spools, run barrels, burlap and lace, purple flowers. The theme was old rustic country atmosphere.
The bride’s cake was a four tier cream color with burlap trim. The groom’s cake was a fire hat sitting on a fire hose.
Upon their return from a wedding trip to Jamaica, the couple will reside in Ragley, La.
A rehearsal dinner was held Friday, Apri 20 at the American Legion Home in Kaplan.
Hillarie is a 2011 graduate of Kaplan High School and McNeese State university with a Bachelor of Science degree.
Lance is a 2008 graduate of Barbe High School in Lake Charles and is employed by the Lake Charles Fire Department.

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Celebrate Local Horticulture in Abbeville

When we think of sights and sounds in South Louisiana, most often what pops in our heads is food and music. It’s an inseparable combo in the land of jazz, gumbo, and crawfish – and it’s probably the main reason most festivals are named for the delicious rhythms and edibles the Bayou State has to offer.

But Louisiana’s location offers something more unique than the food and music, but just as pleasant on the eyes and nose. Sub-tropical climate, with plenty of sun and rain, gives Cajun country a real step-up when it comes to gardening and horticultural offerings.

And one festival in Abbeville, Louisiana takes full advantage.

The Daylily Festival and Garden Show is a mecca for those who like to get their hands a little dirty outdoors, with a plan to create something beautiful. Flowers, flowers, and more flowers outline the entire day, as every event, display, and show is based around floral expertise and viewing.

It should be mentioned that festival-goers will be treated to amazing food and great music – no Louisiana gathering is complete without those. Dancing, singing, and eating add a bit of extra spark to make sure the event treats guests to the party they deserve.

However, visitor’s attention will be drawn to the golden yellows, bright pinks, and deep reds of the flowers on display. Abbeville’s Magdalen Square is completely decorated in a floral arrangement that makes the space feel almost alive with nature. All the events are centered around a great oak tree, with arms that reach out fifty feet or more, each, to shield people from the hot summer sun.

Shoppers can find almost anything they could possibly want for that perfect outdoor hide-away: daylilies, hibiscus, rare and unusual plants, garden supplies, tools, patio items… even birdhouses, to bring some colorful winged friends to your new place of beauty.

New to the craft? Or interested in getting started? The Abbeville Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, host of the event, makes sure to bring in a plethora of educational booths and speakers to provide knowledge for those who are still feeling new to the game - to in-depth discussions on soil quality, planting methods, and how to make the perfect flower arrangement.

The 2018 Daylily Festival and Garden Show will be held Saturday, June 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Abbeville. For more information, contact the Vermillion Parish Chamber of Commerce at 337-898-4110. Or visit http://vermilion.org

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Kathy Marie Broussard - Shelvin

ABBEVILLE – Funeral Services for Mrs. Kathy Marie Broussard - Shelvin, 62, will be held 11:00AM on Saturday, May 26, 2018 at Spirit of Faith Church in Lafayette with Pastor Tracie Millard officiating. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Lourdes Mausoleum.
Visitation will be at Spirit of Faith Church at 205 Touchet Rd.  Lafayette, LA on Saturday, May 26, 2018 from 8:30AM until the time of the services at 11:00AM.
A native of Erath and a resident of Abbeville, Mrs. Broussard - Shelvin died at 7:33AM on Thursday, May 17, 2018 at University Hospital and Clinic.  Kathy “Show Shott” was an active member of Blu Kryztal Motorcycle Club for 15years.  She worked with the Council on Aging starting at the age of 17 and was employed there over 25 years.  She began coordinating trips with Casino Coaches while at the Council on Aging, and then worked for Casino Coaches for over 15 years.  Currently she has been employed at Stein Mart for the past 15years.
She is survived by her mother, Audrey Pillette Broussard of Erath; her husband, Glen D. Shelvin, Sr. and their children, Tamarah Broussard and Glen D. Shelvin, Jr.; her first husband, Osborne Taylor, Jr. and their children, Johnathan Taylor and Shakelia Shelvin and her husband Christopher Shelvin, Sr.; two brothers, Calvin Broussard, Jr. (Bernice) and Michael Broussard (Dione); sisters, Debbie Prejean, Viola “Sue” Malveaux (Timmy), Pamela Vallot (Charles, Jr.), Idell Guerra (David), and Charlotte Broussard; ten grandchildren, Montavian Mitchell, Christopher Shelvin, Jr.,  Johnathan Taylor, Jr., Kieran Shelvin, Brendan Shelvin, Jaysen Shelvin, A’Kela Shelvin, Kaden Shelvin, Kinsley Marie Freeman, and one grandson on the way; one great grandchild, McKenzie Jones; six god children; a special friend, Larry Levier, Sr.; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Calvin Broussard, Sr. 
 Serving as pallbearers will be members of the Biker Clubs with which she was associated.
You may sign the guest register book and express condolences online at www.davidfuneralhome.org
David Funeral Home of Abbeville at 2600 Charity St. (337)893-3777 will be handling the arrangements.

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Arnold “Pete” James Lege

December 22, 1949 ~ May 19, 2018

ABBEVILLE — A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at Vincent Funeral Home - Abbeville, honoring the life of Arnold “Pete” James Lege, 68, who died Saturday, May 19, 2018.
A Massof Christian Burial along with inurnment will be held at a later date.
“Pete” was born and raised on the marshlands and supported the preservation of the wetlands. He was a gator hunter, fur trapper and boat operator who loved the outdoors and traveling. He was proud to be a third-generation employee with the McIlhenny Company. His grandchildren were his life he was always there to support them. He was involved with the Vermilion Parish 4-H for many years following his granddaughters; whether it be showing cattle, choir or dance recitals. His “Alabama” family will miss him dearly; especially his cooking, huge hugs and picking nature.
“Pete” is survived by his wife, Peggy B. Lege; two sons, Corey James Lege and his wife Angelle (Broussard), and Chad Paul Lege and his wife Nikki; daughter, Christy Duhon and her husband Guy; four brothers, Paul Lonnie Lege and his wife Valla, George Berton Lege, Robert Leland Lege and his wife Becky; and John Barry “Chop” Lege; two sister, Nettie Marie Lege Detraz and her husband Daniel, and Cheryl Jane Lege Elbers and her husband Don; five grandchildren, Fallon Lege, Emma Lege, Madison Duhon, Molly Mae Duhon and Camille Bourque; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Leon “Pierre” Lege and the former Emilie Veazey; one brother, Wilton Ray Lege; one sister, Brenda Ruth Lege; and sister-in-law, Margaret Lege.
The family requests that visiting hours be observed at Vincent Funeral Home - Abbeville, 209 S. St. Charles St., on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 from 10:00 AM until 9:00 PM with a rosary being prayed at 7:00 PM.
In remembrance of “Pete” and in lieu of flowers, the Lege Family suggests memorial contributions be made to L.S.U. Ag Center, Vermilion 4-H Foundation, 401 S. Saint Charles St., Abbeville, LA 70510.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.vincentfuneralhome.net.
All funeral arrangements are being conducted by Vincent Funeral Home of Abbeville, (337) 893-4661.

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Vermilion Today

Abbeville Meridional

318 N. Main St.
Abbeville, LA 70510
Phone: 337-893-4223
Fax: 337-898-9022

The Kaplan Herald

219 North Cushing Avenue
Kaplan, LA 70548