Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 9, when the Tangipahoa Chamber will announce the lucky winner of its $10,000 grand prize during Chillin’ with the Chamber, the organization’s signature raffle party presented by First Guaranty Bank. The celebration takes place from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Chappapeela Sports Park Gymnasium. Tickets are $125 and include admission for two guests, one entry into the $10,000 raffle, and a night full of summer fun — all while supporting the Chamber’s mission. Proceeds from the event help preserve the historic Hammond Train Depot and fund programs that strengthen the local business community. Attendees will enjoy live music from 3rd Street, delicious bites and drinks from Chamber member restaurants, a silent auction, liquor pull, and a photobooth. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in summer casual attire. Can’t make it? No problem — you don’t have to be present to win. Second prize is a Large Big Green Egg in a Nest, valued at $1,200 and generously donated by Gabriel Building Supply. Grab your ticket today at www.tangipahoachamber.org and help support local business while taking your shot at $10,000!
–Edward Paul Louque of Walker has been sentenced to life in prison for the July 2023 murder of 67-year-old Barry Roussel of Ponchatoula. A jury found Louque guilty last month after a swift trial, and he was sentenced on August 4. During the sentencing, Roussel’s daughter, Jenny Roussel Bourgeois, delivered a powerful victim impact statement, condemning Louque’s lack of remorse and calling him a “callous, narcissistic man.” She spoke of the lasting pain his actions have caused both families and expressed how the graphic trial evidence still haunts her. Roussel, a family man and friend to many, was fatally shot at the Tourist Information Center in Albany on July 22, 2023. Authorities said Louque and his wife were friends with the victim prior to the killing. Bourgeois, a veteran law enforcement officer, thanked the court and investigators for ensuring justice, saying Louque deserves to spend the rest of his life in prison where he can never harm another family again.
–Meteorologist Scot Pilie’ reports that Gulf of Mexico waters have reached “bathtub” temperatures this August, with sea surface readings 1-3 degrees above average, ranging from 87 to 93 degrees. While Gulf waters typically begin cooling gradually in September and October, the next six to eight weeks—which mark the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season—are expected to be more active. Pilie’ urges residents to stay vigilant, rely on trusted weather sources, and avoid social media hype as the warm Gulf waters could fuel stronger storms this season.
–The City of Mandeville has two public meetings scheduled this week at City Hall Council Chambers, 3101 East Causeway Approach. On Tuesday, August 5 at 6 p.m., officials will hold a Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Hearing to discuss financial planning for the upcoming year. Then on Thursday, August 7 at 6 p.m., the Historic Commission will meet to review matters related to preservation and development within historic districts. Agendas for both meetings are available on the city’s website. Residents are encouraged to attend and stay engaged in local governance.
–Health officials across the Gulf Coast are warning the public after 32 people in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida contracted Vibrio vulnificus—a potentially deadly, flesh-eating bacteria found in warm salt water and raw shellfish—resulting in eight deaths so far this year. The spike is significant compared to the regional average of 13 cases per year over the past decade. Louisiana has reported 17 cases and four deaths, with most linked to seawater exposure, while Florida has recorded 13 cases and four deaths. Alabama and Mississippi have reported one non-fatal case each. Vibrio vulnificus can cause necrotizing fasciitis and other severe complications, particularly in those with open wounds or weakened immune systems. Officials urge caution when entering warm coastal waters or consuming raw seafood during the summer months.
–State Representative Stephanie Berault of District 76 highlighted Louisiana’s proactive approach to implementing federal changes to Medicaid and SNAP through the “One Door” model, a streamlined system aimed at simplifying service access and work requirement reporting. Supported by Governor Jeff Landry and promoted by the Pelican Institute for Public Policy, the initiative involves close collaboration between Louisiana Works, LDH, DCFS, and federal agencies to not only improve service delivery but also empower residents to overcome barriers to securing high-paying, in-demand jobs. Berault emphasized that this legislation offers a rare chance to break the cycle of poverty in Louisiana and thanked Representative Kim Carver and legislative colleagues for unanimously passing the bill to restructure DCFS.
–Louisiana State Police is preparing to launch its 108th Cadet Class on January 4, 2026, continuing its tradition of elite training through a 24-week academy that exceeds POST standards. Cadets will be trained in firearms, tactical driving, defensive tactics, crash investigation, de-escalation, and more. Applications are due by August 18, 2025, and eligibility includes law enforcement experience, college credit, military service, or a combination. LSP offers competitive pay, benefits, take-home vehicles, and career advancement. Learn more or apply at www.JoinLSP.org or contact recruiters at LSPRecruiting@LA.gov.
–Palette Northshore has announced a revised schedule for its highly anticipated grand opening due to a delay in receiving essential electrical components. The private Ribbon Cutting ceremony has been rescheduled for Tuesday, August 26, followed by the public Grand Opening Bash on Wednesday, August 27. Ensuring utilities are fully operational and allowing time for final fire inspections is a top priority before welcoming guests into the newly renovated space. The team appreciates the community’s patience and promises that the wait will be worth it. For details and to RSVP for the public event, visit www.palettenorthshore.com/events.
–The Louisiana Attorney General’s Office announced the arrest of a married couple from Denham Springs—dubbed the “Medicaid Romeo and Juliet”—for allegedly concealing their marriage to fraudulently collect more than $133,000 in Medicaid benefits. The Louisiana Bureau of Investigation uncovered the scheme, marking the latest in a crackdown on Medicaid fraud following the recent arrest of the so-called “Medicaid Millionaire” from Slidell. Officials say the funds are meant for those truly in need, and warn that anyone who attempts to cheat the system will face arrest and prosecution.
–Nunez Community College announced it will acquire a nearly $1 million LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) hands-on training unit to enhance its Process Technology (PTEC) program in Chalmette, made possible through the U.S. Department of Labor-funded SCC4 grant awarded to the Greater New Orleans Infrastructure Partnership. The new equipment will give students real-world experience with LNG production processes—such as refrigeration, vaporization, and liquefaction—and align training with industry needs thanks to collaboration with companies like Venture Global. Officials say the acquisition will help fast-track students into high-demand LNG operator roles while boosting local workforce development. Classes begin Aug. 19, and applications are open now at www.Nunez.edu.
–Time is running out to snag early bird registration for the 11th Annual Tour Da Parish, hosted by the St. Bernard Chamber! Riders can register for just $40 through Sunday, August 18, and secure their spot for the scenic cycling event happening Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Los Islenos Museum & Complex in St. Bernard. With route options of 10, 15, 30, or 51 miles, participants will roll through the historic parish, taking in beautiful views while enjoying a day filled with food, fun, and community spirit. Register now at www.stbernardchamber.org.
–The City of Bogalusa has issued a statement regarding a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (CEA) under consideration with the Bogalusa Youth Sports Association (BYSA), which would return the city’s youth sports programs to a volunteer-led model. Citing BYSA’s proven success with soccer and flag football, city officials hope the agreement will restore confidence in local youth athletics and encourage participation from families who’ve turned to other leagues. The city emphasized that any volunteer organization may submit a CEA for council review, that city parks remain free and publicly funded, and that field use will be fairly scheduled on a first-come, first-serve basis with accommodations made for all youth programs.
–Detectives with the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office have arrested a suspect accused of stealing over $2,300 worth of collectible sports cards from the Watson Walmart between July 15 and July 25, 2025. Sheriff Jason Ard said the suspect, identified as Ryan Meador of Central, allegedly used a barcode-swapping scheme—scanning cheaper items like $0.98 Great Value pasta instead of high-value cards from brands like TOPPS. With help from the Central Police Department and the Louisiana State Police Fugitive Task Force, Meador was taken into custody and charged with one count of felony theft, with six misdemeanor thefts combined into an additional felony charge. Authorities say Meador may face more charges in other jurisdictions as the investigation continues.
