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Mrs. Hunter Michael Bertrand
Morgan Alysse Photography

Miss Jada Lynn Poche’ & Mr. Hunter Michael Bertrand United in Holy Matrimony

Miss Jada Lynn Poché of Erath, Louisiana and Mr. Hunter Michael Bertrand of Broussard, Louisiana were united in the sacrament of Holy Matrimony at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church on Saturday, June 7th. Father Clinton Sensat, pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes in Erath, officiated the Nuptial Mass.
Jada is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Poché of Erath. Grandparents of the bride are Mrs. Lucille Doré and the late Mr. M.C. Doré and the late Mr. & Mrs. James Lynn Poché. Hunter is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Shannon Bertrand of Abbeville. Grandparents of the groom and Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Dupuy and Ms. Delores Begley.
Escorted by her father, the bride wore an ivory mikado Justin Alexander fit and flare bridal gown with a scoop neckline and thin straps. The gown was adorned with lightly sequined lace appliqué that cascaded down the bodice and skirt completed with mikado buttons down the back bodice. She wore a cathedral length overskirt also adorned with matching lightly sequined lace appliqué down the sides and around the hemline. The bride wore an ivory fingertip length veil with a lightly sequined edge.
She carried a bouquet of ivory playa blanca roses. Accenting her bouquet was a crystal rosary and white handkerchief both gifted to her from her late paternal grandmother. She also wore an oval shaped Sapphire birthstone ring on her right hand as her something blue.
Caroline Poché served as Maid of Honor and Kasey Landry Menard served as Matron of Honor, both cousins of the bride. Bridesmaids were Olivia Leblanc, Gabrielle Capdepon Lormand, and Brooklyn Mayon, all friends of the bride. The ladies wore a floral sage green fit and flare maxi dress which had a classic square neckline framed with wide straps. They carried a bouquet of ivory playa Blanca roses accented with a satin ribbon with each their name embroidered in sage green. Camille Duplantis, cousin of the bride, served as flower girl. She wore a handmade heirloom white smocked gown that was once worn by the bride.
Thomas Juneau, friend of the groom, served as the best man. Groomsmen were Peyton Lege, William Kreamer, Nicholas Padgett, and Jackson Russo, all friends of the groom. Ushers were André Bertrand, brother of the groom, and Brennan Poché, brother of the bride. Ring Bearers were Elliot Bertrand, godchild of the groom and Gunner Menard, godchild of the bride.
The mother of the bride, Wendy, was escorted by her son, Brennan, and her husband, Paul. She wore a lovely mint green sleeveless gown with a fluttery sheer shoulder cape overlay that both featured intricate all over beading mesh.
The mother of the groom was escorted by her two sons, Hunter and André. She wore a silver peony off the shoulder gown with a sculptural fold-over neckline that draped over the arms.
Scriptures were read by Tessie Gary, Godmother of the groom, and Coco Broussard, Godfather of the bride. Serving as gift bearers were Dana Duplantis, Godmother of the bride, and Alaina Andry, cousin of the bride.
Following the nuptial mass, guests walked over to Magdalen Place where an elegant reception was held with Jet Seven band providing entertainment. The bride’s cake was a 4 tier white-almond cake with detailed vintage piping buttercream frosting. The cake was topped with a porcelain bride and groom silhouette that was used on the bride’s parent’s cake 35 years ago. The groom’s cake was a red velvet golf themed green and white golf bag with Bertrand monogrammed down the side with golf ball cake balls surrounding the bag.
A rehearsal dinner, hosted by the groom’s parents took place at L’eglise to honor their son and the bride-to-be along with the wedding party on June 5th.
Upon returning from their honeymoon to Playa Mujeres, Mexico, the couple will reside in Broussard, Louisiana.

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Josslyn Maud Jakerian Arceneaux

Josslyn Maud Jakerian Arceneaux graduated summa cum laude from Alabama State University

Josslyn Maud Jakerian Arceneaux, an Abbeville native and daughter of Kasha Brown and Joaquin Arceneaux, is a proud alumna of Abbeville High School, where she graduated at the top of her class in 2021. On May 2, 2025, at 8:45 A.M., Josslyn graduated summa cum laude—the highest level of honor—from Alabama State University, once again earning top honors in her class. She majored in psychology and minored in rehabilitation, and has been an honors student throughout all four years of college, maintaining an exceptional academic record.
In recognition of her outstanding achievements and unwavering dedication to her goals, Josslyn was awarded the prestigious President’s Award. Throughout her academic journey, she also actively participated in a total of 8 extracurricular activities, further demonstrating her commitment and leadership.
Josslyn plans on furthering her education by pursuing a master’s degree or Ph.D in clinical mental health counseling . Her favorite quote is: “Pray like everything depends on God, work like everything depends on you.”

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Easy Does It!

BOURSIN CHICKEN AND PASTA

Crock pot cooking.
No oven heat.
No stove top flames.

INGREDIENTS

-1 1/2 lb skinless, boneless chicken
-Seasoning to taste
-1 can Italian-style diced tomatoes
-2 cups chicken broth, water would suffice although not as rich as broth
-1 cup orzo pasta
-2 (5.2 oz) packages garlic and herb Boursin cheese, found in deli
-5 oz baby spinach
-1 tsp lemon juice, optional

INSTRUCTIONS

-Place chicken in slow cooker.
-Season with salt and pepper.
-Top with tomatoes.
-Pour in chicken broth or water.
-Cook on High for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours.
-Remove chicken from slow cooker.
-Cut it into 1-inch pieces.
-Return chicken to slow cooker.
-Stir in orzo and Boursin cheese.
-Cook on High until pasta is tender and liquid has been absorbed, about 35 to 40 minutes.
-Stir in spinach until wilted. I like mine well wilted.
-Check for seasoning.
-Stir in lemon juice if using.
-Serve immediately.

-Orzo’s rice-like shape makes it perfect ingredient in casseroles such as this.
-With only 15 carbs and 29 fat grams, this recipe provides 40 grams of protein per serving with 448 satisfying calories making it a winner.
Boursin cheese is a staple in our refrigerator with the garlic herb our favorite. It has a good shelf life and is delicious as a dip right out of the box. Put the unwrapped round on an attractive saucer or dip plate surrounded by Frito scoops or Lay’s Ruffles. Good to go!

For a similar recipe in less time, the following instructions will get you there.

MORE BOURSIN

Need a meal in a hurry? Try this. With the ingredients and cooked chicken on hand (which I always have), this meal can be ready in less than an hour.

INGREDIENTS

-1 (16 oz) package angel hair pasta
-1 (5.2 oz) package Boursin Garlic and Herb spread
-3/4 cup grape tomatoes, sliced (Optional)
-1/2 cup reserved pasta water, or as needed
-Cooked chicken (Optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

-Mise en place.
-Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
-Cook whole package pasta in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender, firm to the bite, 5 or 6 minutes.
-Drain pasta reserving 3/4 cup of water. You may not need it all.
-Pour 1/2 cup reserved water into sauce pan.
-Add Boursin cheese whisking to combine until smooth.
-Add grape tomatoes
-Cook no longer than 2 minutes. Although optional, these tomatoes add a big punch to the finished meal.
-Add cooked chicken now to make this a perfect main dish. Leftovers of a rotisserie chicken would be perfect.
-Add pasta back into sauce.
-Check for seasoning.
-Add pasta stirring until all ingredients are completely coated.
-Pour in more of reserved water if pasta seems dry.
-Serve meatless pasta as a flavorful side dish or light lunch.
-With the chicken you have a tasty main meal. Add a salad, and you are ready for company.

ICE CREAM SANDWICH CAKE

Cold treat for hot weather.

INGREDIENTS

-24 vanilla ice cream sandwiches, unwrapped
-2 (8 oz) containers whipped topping, thawed
-1 (12 oz) jar hot fudge ice cream topping, warmed
-1 (12 ounce) jar caramel topping (Optional)
-1/4 cup chopped pecans, to taste (Optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

-Mise en place.
-Arrange a layer of ice cream sandwiches in the bottom of a 9x13” glass dish.
-Top with a layer of whipped topping.
-Cover with hot fudge topping.
-Now add caramel topping if using.
-Continue layers with remaining ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping, chocolate, caramel, ending with whipped topping last to be the top of cake.
-Sprinkle with pecans if using.
-Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
-Freeze until set. Allow several hours in the freezer. It’s a mess if not completely frozen.
I learned the hard way. The recipe I used then advised “about 30 minutes.” My cake was not frozen after an hour when I brought it to an afternoon get together. The recipe came out of the Sweet Potato Queens Big A Cookbook, and the full name of the cookbook, which can be funny, cannot be printed here. That bit of comedy helped lessen my embarrassment.
-Slice and serve with your favorite toppings.
I don’t use the caramel topping in the cake, because of my personal preference. I do make it available when serving.

A week in Pass Christian, mostly watching the rain from the glass porch, gave me time to make banana loaves. Tasters decided flour and sugar make a better banana loaf than cake mix.
Boo tested his new outdoor burner Saturday night, the first time we have fried food at home in 30 years, not even French fries. I don’t remember fried food while growing up - except French fries. Moma did fry chicken outdoors on Sundays and special occasions.
Our neighbors, especially Steve, gave Boo instructions for frying, and son Vance provided a recipe for the batter. Dip the seasoned shrimp in butter milk, then dredge in flour. Appetizing fried shrimp and frozen fries were the main course. Heavy appetizers of smoked tuna dip, mango salsa, and chicken wings were prepared in case the fried shrimp did not score well. No worries, Boo scored an A+. Lemon cobbler was the dessert. So simple: 2 cans lemon pie filling in 9x13” dish, a box of cake mix sprinkled across, and melted butter poured over, baked and
enjoyed by all.

NEW TOY FOR BOO

With the ham bone left from my trip to the beach with my friends, I made, well Boo made, white bean soup. After soaking the beans overnight, he added a ham steak, carrots, celery, onions, and a can of stewed tomatoes. Without Ro-Tel tomatoes in the pantry, stewed tomatoes turned the soup pink. Quite delicious, but PINK!

With Sunday being our 57th anniversary AND Fathers Day, I suggested one of Boo’s favorite things. We crossed St. Louis Bay in the boat, docked at Bay St. Louis, and enjoyed a delicious meal on the deck at The Thorny Oyster. Only glitch on the whole day was losing my prescription sun glasses when climbing out of the boat onto the dock. They are lost forever to the depths of Bay St. Louis. Two hours without glasses, which has not occurred since I was in third grade, was not the catastrophe I thought it would be. Everything, everybody looked heavenly hazy. The amazing breeze protected us from a hot sun, and the Bay was totally calm furnishing a pleasant ride home to and from The Pass. Homemade peach ice cream with friends topped off the day.

Jusqu’a la semaine prochaine!

billielandry@iosinces.com

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The Vermilion Parish School Board has plans to demolish old gymnasium at Rene Rost Middle School.

Old Rene Rost gym will be torn down

Vermilion Parish School Board votes not to spend $2 million to repair the old gym

KAPLAN — It sounds like the days are numbered for the old Rene Rost Middle School gym in Kaplan.
The Vermilion Parish School Board has plans to tear down the damaged structure.
At Thursday night’s school board meeting, the board members learned that to bring the 75-year-old-plus gym up to operating condition, it will cost just under $2 million to repair a gym that does not have air conditioning.
While fixing the roof of the old gym due to hurricane damage, which the insurance is covering for $500,000, the contractors discovered that the walls had significant termite damage.
Repair work was halted to obtain a cost estimate for repairing or replacing the walls in the old gym.  The school board members learned it would cost $1.4 million to replace the walls in the gym, which taxpayers would have to pay.
So, the total repair cost would be $1.9 million for a gym that does not have air conditioning.
School board member Dr. David Dupuis, who was once the principal at Rene Rost Middle School, said the old gym has a history with Kaplan. He did his best to try and save the gym.
“You can not replace this gym,” Dr. Dupuis said. “It is part of the community.  Youth organizations utilize the gym. To repair it is well worth it.”
A few years ago, the school board constructed a new gym adjacent to the old one, and as a result, the school now rarely uses the old gym for school events. Before the new Kaplan High School was constructed, Rene Rost Middle School served as the original Kaplan High School.
School Board member Dale Stelly attended the old Kaplan High School and remembers having PE classes in the old gym. Despite the good memories, he can not see spending a lot of money to repair the old gym.
“All said and done, it’s $2 million,” said Stelly.
Stelly said he has heard complaints from Kaplan residents that the old gym is an “eye sore.”
Kaplan school board member Gregg Meaux agreed with Stelly.
“I reached out to some friends about repairing the gym,” said Meaux. “They do not support spending $2 million. I do not think it is worth spending that kind of money.”
After the board voted not to spend an $2 million to repair the old gym, board member David Dupuis said, “Now we have to pay to demolish it.”
The school board will look into the cost of demolishing the old gym.

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Denise Lotief

North Vermilion High's Lotief is retiring

32-year career in education included past five as NV principal

North Vermilion High School Principal Denise Lotief has spent more than three decades working in education.
Lotief announced that time is now coming to an end.
“After 32 incredible years in education, I’m stepping into a new chapter of my life — retirement,” Loteif said in a post on social media. “This decision has not been easy, as this has truly been my second home for so long.”
Lotief became principal at North Vermilion in 2020, first on an interim basis and then permanently, following Tommy Byler being named the superintendent of the Vermilion Parish School System. Lotief served as an assistant principal at the school prior to being named to the top spot.
“I’m so proud of everything that we accomplished together,” Lotief said. “I can’t wait to watch the next generation of Patriots continue to shine.”
More than 120 from the NV community and beyond shared their appreciation on Lotief’s post. Representatives of the school shared their collective thanks for what Lotief has meant to the school.
“Join us in congratulating NVHS principal, Mrs. Denise Lotief, on her well-deserved retirement!” a post on the school’s page exclaimed. “We thank her for her unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and community. Help us celebrate her incredible career and wish her the very best in this exciting new chapter ahead.”
Assistant Superintendent Marc Turner said Monday morning the job had not been officially opened.
Lotief said she will be in the office and working right up until orientation to help prepare things for the upcoming school year. She shared a message for every student who will continue to move North Vermilion forward.
“While I won’t be here next year in an administrative role,” Lotief said, “you will still see me around in my new role as your number-one fan. I’ll be cheering you in all you do.

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Pictured (L-R) are Miss Freedom Karmen Landry, Miss Justice Keylene Coleman, Miss Juneteenth Queen 2025 Jaylie Williams (16) in the middle is the 2024 Miss Juneteenth Queen Sanatryn Fruge, Junior Miss Juneteenth Queen Karlee Stewart, Junior Miss Justice Kyli Alyra Bolden and Junior Miss Freedom Seriniti Broussard.

Vermilion Parish: 4th Annual Juneteenth Royalty announced

The Vermilion Parish NAACP #6276 and Mt. Triumph Baptist Church hosted the Fourth Annual Miss Juneteenth Pageant on June 7 at the Abbeville High School Auditorium.
The participants showcased their talents, beauty, etiquette, and humility, as noted by the organizers. Representatives from both the Vermilion Parish NAACP and Mt. Triumph Baptist Church expressed their gratitude to all the parents who supported their children in this event. They also thanked the community for coming out to support the girls, as well as the judges and the master of ceremonies, Lawana Stokes.
Additionally, organizers extended their thanks to Ravin St. Julien and The Dynasty Dance Company for their performances, along with special recognition for the participants: the Tea Girls, Dennym Carron, Kennedy Willis, Tai’leah Green, Jasmine Morris, and Catelyn Lewis.
Middle school and high school females are encouraged to participate in this experience next year.

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Pictured (L to R): Randy Lege (ACA), Tony Mayard & Madeline DeHart (Vermilion Arts Council), Claire Gaspard Broussard (ACA) 2025 French immersion scholar Ethan Cessac (EHS), Bonnie Broussard, Patsy Hebert (Abbeville Giant Omelette) and Lloyd Doré III (ACHA President).

Russell Gaspard French Immersion Scholarship awarded to Ethan J. Cessac

The Russell Gaspard French Immersion Scholarship committee presented the 2025 student recipient, Ethan J. Cessac (parents - Ashley & Brandon Cessac), with a Certificate of Recognition.
Since 2007 the Acadian Centre Acadian and Abbeville Cultural & Historical Alliance have provided 24 Vermilion Parish student scholarships to study at the University St. Anne summer program in Church Point, Nova Scotia, Canada.

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Layla Bolden hangs up a shirt at the Wildcat Wardrobe. Two years ago, Bolden turned her room into a place J.H. Williams students can grab what they need for a school day, should the need arise.

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Along with uniforms, and other donated items, Layla Bolden has collected shoes.

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One cabinet in Layla Bolden’s room at J.H. Williams, known as the Wildcat Wardrobe, is full of school supplies.

Wildcat Wardrobe has it: J.H. Williams students able to obtain needed items during year

It’s still early in the summer, so kids definitely don’t want to think too much about returning to school.
However, when the year does begin in August, should a student at J.H. Williams Middle School in Abbeville need something for school on a given day, he or she won’t have to think about where to find it.
For the past two years, the Wildcat Wardrobe at J.H. Williams has provided students with various necessities that may arise during a school day. Layla Bolden, the school’s behavior interventionist,  helped organize the effort.
“Two years ago, I converted my room to a one-stop shop for all our students,” Bolden said. “I can honestly say at one point or another, I have probably provided some form of item to almost every kid in our school. Whether it was a kid who spilled milk on themselves, fell in the mud during recess, lost everything in a house fire, or fell on hard times and couldn’t afford particular items. They always knew they could come to my room and grab whatever they needed…no questions asked. 
“It was theirs to keep.”
As it is the summer, it’s the perfect time to help replenish the Wildcat Wardrobe.
“As you clean out your kids’ closet this summer,” Bolden said, “please consider donating any gently used school uniforms to provide for my Wildcat Wardrobe,” Bolden said.
Items donated must be those that the Vermilion Parish School System has already approved. Among the middle-school-aged items, Bolden said are needed include:
• tops
• bottoms
• belts
• shoes
• solid sweatshirts (no graphics)
• book-sacks
Bolden added that school supplies can also be donated.
“Teachers can come in and grab whatever they need,” Bolden said.
One cabinet in Bolden’s classroom sat empty. It’s the food cabinet that has been cleared out for summer.
“That’s stuff (students) can take home during weekends or holidays,” Bolden said of the process during the school year. “It’s kind of a food pantry that we have.
Anyone interested in contributing any items to the Wildcat Wardrobe can contact Bolden via email at laylabolden@icloud.com. She also will make posts on social media.
“My Facebook posts and following never disappoint,” Bolden said. “Anytime I need something, they come through.”
Bolden thanked all who have stepped up.
“Shout out to everyone who has donated to my room,” Bolden said. “From complete strangers, our very own teachers, admins, and parents. You’ve always shown up when needed.”
That helps ensure that students have what they need when they need it.
“Students know that if they need something,” Bolden said, “go to Mrs. Layla’s class. She’s got it. At least 90% of these kids have gotten something.”

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This sign will be posted to help visitors with paying for parking at the Intracoastal City Launch.

Streamlined Parking, launch Access now live at Intracoastal City Launch

The Abbeville Harbor and Terminal District announces the implementation of a new, streamlined payment system for parking and boat launching at the Intracoastal City Launch. This initiative is designed to provide a faster, more convenient experience for all visitors using the site for recreational access, including boating, fishing, hunting, and camping.
Effective immediately, users are encouraged to download the JustPark App to pay the daily access fee of $5. The app simplifies payment and makes it easy to manage your stay.

Daily Rate:
• Park Only – $5
• Launch Only – $5
• Launch and Park – Still just $5
*No additional fees apply.*

Download the App for Easy Access
The JustPark App is the easiest and quickest way to pay.
• Pay before you arrive
• Manage your time remotely
• Avoid on-site lines and delays
• A QR code is also available on-site, but downloading the JustPark App directly from your device’s app store is the quickest way to pay.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
All payments are verified by vehicle license plate identification.
Visitors must enter the correct vehicle plate number when using the app.
• Failure to do so may result in a fine or the vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense.
• Failure to pay the required access fee constitutes a violation of law and may result in enforcement action.

Permit Options for
Frequent Users

Permits may be purchased at:
Abbeville Harbor & Terminal District
124 North Street, Suite 100, Abbeville, LA
- Annual Permit: $100 (Valid through December 31)
- Six-Month Permit: $60
- Valid through June 30 if purchased before June 30
- Valid through December 31 if purchased after June 30

Please note: The office accepts cash & Check only for permit purchases. Credit cards are not accepted.
Commercial Use

Any commercial use of the Intracoastal City Launch facility requires a permit and prior approval from the Abbeville Harbor and Terminal District. Please contact the office directly to inquire about commercial use guidelines and applications.

A Message from District Leadership

“For years, we’ve heard your frustration about the old pay station—whether it was too slow or simply not working,” said Nicholas Gautreaux, Executive Director of the Abbeville Harbor and Terminal District. “The Board of Commissioners and I felt the same way. That’s why we’ve implemented this new system—to save you time, eliminate the hassle, and allow you to enjoy your trip without standing in line or waiting on a payment to process.”

Board President Jimmie Steen added: “I’ve served on this Board for many years, and I’ve heard the same concerns from our community time and time again. I want the public to know that we take those concerns seriously. That’s exactly why we’re modernizing the way we handle parking and launching—with the new JustPark App. It’s about making things easier, more efficient, and more in line with the convenience people expect today.”
The District is transitioning to a cashless payment system for daily access. All visitors are strongly encouraged to begin using the JustPark App for parking and launch payments to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.
This upgrade supports the District’s mission to improve access, maintain quality facilities, and enhance recreational opportunities across the District.
For questions or more information, contact the District at (337) 893-9465 or email admin@abbevilleharbor.com.

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This handicap ramp looks to be built on the home’s old concrete slab instead of the public sidewalk on Putnam Street in Erath.

Erath property owner says ramp not on sidewalk

It looks to be built on concrete slab in front of house

ERATH — Erath City Councilman Jason Connor proposed a motion to remove the wooden ramp that had been built in front of a resident’s house on Putnam Street. However, before a vote could take place, the property owner revealed surprising information that halted the voting process.
Kim Brasseaux told the Erath council and Mayor Taylor Mencacci that he owns the property and rents it out. 
He explained that his tenant, an elderly woman, hired someone to build the ramp in front of the house, which made it easier to go in and out of the house on her scooter. The woman received the OK from Mencacci to build it.
That was about three months ago, and some residents on Putnam Street are trying to get the town to remove the ramp because it is blocking the town’s sidewalk. The town has an ordinance that states nothing can block sidewalks. 
At the meeting, a handful of Erath residents told the council that the ramp poses a danger to those walking or riding their bikes because, with the ramp on the sidewalk, they now have to walk or ride on the road.
However, Brasseaux then stood up and educated the council about the history of the house where the ramp is located. At one time, the house was an old grocery store, and what everyone thought was a sidewalk was not.
“It is not the town’s sidewalk,” Brasseaux explained. “The ramp is on the slab that the house was built on before it was raised.  There is no sidewalk on the west side of the house, facing Suire Street. 
“That is also the slab.”
 Before the vote, Erath councilman  Cory Duplantis had a few questions after Brasseaux spoke about the slab.
“You have to determine first, is it a sidewalk or not?” Duplantis asked. “If it is not, then you may have an easement ordinance. We need to check on that before we decide.”
The council made a second motion to have city attorney Bart Broussard research to see if what is in front of the Brasseaux-owned house is a sidewalk or a cement slab extension.
Before the ramp was built, there were cement steps that led into the front door.

Pages

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