Page 1BTEX-LASSPOHONDA2022save you BIG bucks!specialize in low-mileage VEHMake the drive to Picayune wlow-mileage usePLooking for a gRAHICLES towhere wed car?greatleather, super cle61k miles, mileEX Leas,TOYO A2021Tn$25, 97757k milesV6XSEHIGHLANTOYOTANDERYour L ow$32,9w-Mileage Headqu -Mile977g quarters601-798-8682Mon-Fri: 8 to 5:30 Sat: 8 to 2herringfordlincoln.com820 Memorial Blvd Picayune, MS 39466THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT Thursday, May 28, 2026There are many golf tournaments in the areaeach year, but none that are more popularthan the huge turnout Sheriff Randy Smithgets every year for his event, that benefits themen and women who work for him--the St.Tammany Deputy Sheriff's Association. The big outing, held at Royal Golf Club, bringstogether players from all areas, including lawenforcement, business leaders, public officialsand many friends of the sheriff. The tournament is so big that it needs twoseparate rounds, one in the morning and one in the afternoon as over 260 golfers were playing.Sheriff’s golf tournament is huge success once more
By KEVIN CHIRISlidell news bureauCOVINGTON – Hasanyone asked Covington Mayor Mark Johnsonabout considering a runfor the soon-to-be vacant parish presidentjob?For a guy who spentmost of his life runningone of the biggest homeconstruction businessesin the country--yes, theentire United States--itcame as a shock tomany in 2019 whenJohnson announced hewas running for mayorof his hometown, Covington. The man hadnever run for public office before.But not only did Johnson run for the top jobin the city, he won theelection, then got reelected in 2023 with noopposition, but now isabout to walk away afterserving his allowabletwo terms, and headinto semi-retirement.Considering the incredible work he has doneas mayor—never havingany kind of public service job before—it wouldbe easy to see Johnsonencouraged to becomethe next parish president for a job that takesstrong leadership.That question, askedby “people ever week,”he said, then asked byThe Slidell Independent, brought a big smile.“No, no,” Johnson said.“I’ve done my time hereas the mayor and enjoyed it, and eventhough a few peoplehave asked me aboutparish president, I’mheading for retirement.”So much for the extended public office career. Johnson is nowheading into his finalyear as mayor of Covington and it’s beyondimpressive to see theway he has brought abusiness mind into theoffice—all to the betterment of the growingNorth Shore community.His campaign formayor ended up leading him into an onlineprogram that hasproven to be highly successful to not only keephis constituents informed, but also toquickly respond toquestions and concernsregarding the city ofCovington.Johnson said that during his campaign he utilized a digital ande-mail marketing program known as Constant Contact, which allowed him to build adatabase of contactswho wanted to be included on any e-mailblast he may send out.That helped him respond to voters almostimmediately whenquestions or possibleattacks occurred duringthe campaign, helpinghim surprise a field oftwo well-known Covington officials, winning hisfirst election in the primary with 52 percent ofthe vote.Then, when he tookoffice, Johnson saw anadded advantage tokeep Constant Contactaround. “We informed residents that they couldsign up and be on an email list. Anytime thecity sent out a press release about anything,they would get it immediately. That helped metake the media out oftrying to connect withmy constituents, or anyone else who was interested in Covingtonnews,” he explained.But Johnson has takenConstant Contact to anentirely new level thatplenty of other politicians could certainlylearn from. AnytimeJohnson faced an issueabout the city, he researched it in great detail, then posted it on thecity website and sent itout to what is now 6,000subscribers. Not onlydid he inform his residents about key issues,but he did it in a veryentertaining and evenhumorous way.A great example ofhow well the approachworked was when residents started askingwhy Covington doesn’thave a comprehensivelaw about golf cart useon city streets, which isbecoming prevalentthroughout the nation,including St. TammanyParish. Johnson, who researches, creates andwrites almost everynews post listed on theCity Hall mayor’s page,dug into the matter anddiscovered a lot moreissues related to the golfcart question than mostcities were considering.(See Johnson, Pg. 3B)Page 2B Thursday, May 28, 2026 THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTCovington leader heading into final year of his term‘I am happy I was chosen toserve, I am happy to haveserved and I will be happyto walk away. Never hadnor have any further political ambitions.’--Covington Mayor Mark Johnson on questionsabout running for parish president MandevilleOPhCovingtoC di U ionPJ’ ffeeAVA A HospitalLakeview HospitalAcquistapace Wine & CMandeville City Hallffee RaniMandeville TrailheadSaia Grocery StoreTexaco Extra MileParish GovernmentTCofAVALAs Cof OchsnerOchsner We Dat SExpress ETammGallagheVaricoseGulf SouCovingtoOn PathCheeseVSt. TW Cancer CenterHospitalStoreEmployer many Chamberer’s RestaurantVein Centeruth Foot & Ankleon LibraryCredit UnionV Slidell-independent.The Slidell IndependAlso available:On Path Credit UnionffeePJ s CoffeeStarbucks Cof StarbuckPJ’ ffffee RCovingtoSouthernAcquistaStone CrOchsner.comdent Cofs Cof ffeefeeRanion City Halln Hotelapace Groceryreek Club & SpaCancer Centerks Cof kevinchiri@gmailcontact Publisher Kevor for more informationIf you would like to bec l.com 985-774-1352in Chiri:n, come a business distribution site at no cost, FREE!Covington Mayor Mark Johnson has quietly headed the city for sevenyears, bringing great ideas to his job that have kept citizens informed andhappy, so much so that he has gotten quite a few requests to consider arun for parish president. (Staff photo by Kevin Chiri.)Johnson transformed the way to be mayorNews fromSt. Tammany WestNOW COVERING MANDEVILLE AND COVINGTONCOVINGTON – WhenMark Johnson startedworking in his homeconstruction businesswith Four Star Homes, itdidn’t take him long torealize that the summeris a pretty hot time of theyear to be walking outside at constructionsites.“So, I started wearingshorts,” he said. “Beforelong, a lot of other contractors were wearingshorts too.”Walk into Johnson’s office today, as mayor ofCovington, and you willsee the same shorts outfit—at least on dayswhen he isn’t headingout for meetings withbusiness executivesaround the North Shore.“I still like the shorts,”he said. “When I told mywife I was going to wearshorts in my construction business, she saidthat if I was going to doit, I had to still look professional.“So, that meant wearing a dress shirt or poloshirt, wearing a beltwith the shorts, and theyhad to be dress shorts,”he said.Johnson didn’t see anyreason to let that endwhen he took over asmayor, so he has apparently set a new standardfor fashion as themayor—along with themany innovativechanges he made tosend the city movingforward in many otherways.As of today, the shortsare staying.No ‘short’cuts taken for this mayorwhen it comes to his dress code
Page 3BJames Morgan ofCovington, left, wasrecognized at SoutheasternLouisiana UniversityCollege of Education’s annualhonors convocation.He received the Outstanding Seniorin English EducationAward. Congratulating him isAssociate Professorof English LeilyaPitre.SLU studentfrom CovingtonhonoredThursday, May 28, 2026JOHNSON: Covington mayor in final year of term(From Pg. 2B)“Yes, golf cart use on city streets isbecoming popular,” he said. “Butwhat about the motorized scooters, ormotorized bikes now—they go up to35 mph and have people doing crazythings on them, many not exactly following city laws.”Johnson went so deep into the golfcart question that the post on themayor’s page of the City Hall websitedelves deep into the issue, quoting a2016 Louisiana state law written explicitly for “golf carts,” somethingJohnson says is now totally inappropriate to be used for other “LowSpeed Vehicles (LSV),” the new termapplying to the multitude of evolvingmodes of transportation.Once his post went public, thequestions ended and Johnson hadagreement from the City Council thatthe city is better to not have a law—citing lawsuits other cities ran intowhen they created their own laws. Atthe end of the day, he said, “police officers treat anyone with an LSV justlike someone driving a car. First stopyou get a warning and that usuallyends the problem, but if they persist,they can ticket them.”Today, the City Hall link to theMayor’s Office has a list of 17 postsfrom Johnson, covering some of themost intriguing questions, many withhistorical pictures and references.Simply put, it’s a fascinating read formany of them that Johnson said heusually takes an entire weekend toanswer since he researches so muchof the issue.“Our job as officials is to be responsible with the money the public hasprovided for the city,” he said. “That’swhy I want to research somethingvery carefully before deciding weshould make a new law or respond tolegitimate questions, without theproper information.”Johnson used his same approach toconnect to residents when the cityneeded to renew a critical capital improvement millage two years ago.Rather than have the public give thecity a quick “No!” to anything havingthe word tax in it—as the parish hasbeen seeing for years—he carriedout a detailed education campaign soresidents understood how importantthe millage was.“We passed with 70 percent supporting us,” he said.Next up for the city is Johnson’s goalto revive Recreation District 10, covering Covington and surroundingareas, since “our city has no majorrecreation facility like Coquille orPelican Park. We need a millage approved, which has been defeatedthree times in the past, but we plan totry it in April of 2027.”The exact plan for the facility is notsettled, but he hopes to propose aplan for a “large recreation facility inCovington.”Johnson is a multi-generation Covington resident, growing up “andplaying with kids in the neighborhood like Mike Cooper (currentparish president.)” His father was asuccessful builder and even thoughJohnson graduated from Xavier University with a Pharmacy Degree, hewent into building through Four StarHomes, which was later named one ofthe top 400 largest building companies by Professional Builder Magazine. They were the first Louisianacompany to make the list, then hestepped away from building in 2000to find more business success in thepharmacy and home health care industries.When he leaves office in one year,Johnson will have guided the city tobe rated by USA Today as the numberfive “Best Small Town Food Scene,” inthe United States, selected as one ofSouthern Living’s “South’s Best” cities,and “Best Small Town in Louisiana,”among other honors. The city actuallyonly has a population of approximately 62,000, but there is a total population of over 125,000 in the regionnear the city limits.“I like to say that Covington hasbeen an overnight success that tookdecades,” he said with a laugh. “Wehave an administration and councilworking together with a mind set tohelp businesses with problems whenthey have an issue they aren’t gettingfixed. To me, the role of city government is to facilitate the success oflocal business. When that happens,things are going to move forwardnicely.”When asked what the biggest problems still facing the city are, Johnsondidn’t have to think long.“We have such a wonderful city,with so many great places to eat andrelax, that our big problem is parking,” he said. “We’re constantly tryingto find small, vacant lots to purchaseand we have increased the parking,but our city is so popular that parkingis still a problem.”Even in what must seem like a fastseven years in office, Johnson’s website posts of issues and questions overthe years shows one success storyafter another.In 2022 he took on the West 30s Revitalization Plan that put together acomprehensive plan of improvementfor the historically low-income community.His community involvement overthe years is impressive to say theleast, with volunteer work on numerous non-profit or government boards,as well as serving in leadership rolesfor many of those groups. However,one he is certainly most proud ofhelping create is Leadership St. Tammany in 1993, something he is still aprogram director for, although retirement from that post is also part of hisplan.Still with the recreation district goalbig on his mind, Johnson sees retirement as, “getting back to fishing sincethere are a lot of fish I missed catching while mayor. Also, I have plenty ofunread books.“I am happy I was chosen to serve,I am happy to have served and I willbe happy to walk away. Never had norhave any further political ambitions.For me, this was always about myhometown,” he added.He still plans to remain active withthe rec district and will be involvedwith hopes for a senior center, multipurpose events or community centerfor the area, but otherwise, he mightdo well to disappear until after theparish president’s race in the fall of2027.Chances are, for those who taketime to look at his work as mayor, hestill might be getting urged to consider a run.THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTNews fromSt. Tammany WestNOW COVERING MANDEVILLE AND COVINGTON(Covington Mayor Mark Johnson has addressed the following city issues during his time in office, posting detailed reports on the followingissues. They can be found on the Mayor’s Office link at the City of Covington website: covla.com)• City Recreation Department or Parish Recreation District? • Door to Door Solicitors - August 23, 2025• Golf Cart Law and Terminology – July 24, 2024• Drivers Licenses Required for Golf Carts – August 6, 2024• Group Homes – Dec 2, 2022• Recovery Group Homes – July 18, 2023• Crosswalks to Heaven (and on Earth) – December 5, 2024• Speed Mitigation Efforts – October 4, 2022• Speed Mitigation Update – April 8, 2025• West 30s Revitalization Plan – March 10, 2022• West 30s Update – April 25, 2023• Recycling Reminders – August 11, 2022• Boat Launch, Downtown Paving – November 12, 2024• Paving Update, Drainage Priorities, Flooding History• Post Hurricane Francine Drainage Assessment – October 15th, 2024• In the City Limits or Not in the City Limits?The Things One Should Know About Our Little CityF.A.Q.'s of DaMayorCOVINGTON St. Tammany Parish Government has released theresults of the Comprehensive Housing NeedsAssessment, an evaluation of St. TammanyParish’s housing needsand recommendation ofactionable strategies forcommunity leaders andstakeholders. The Assessment was conducted by anindependent consultant.The Assessment’s keyfindings showcase ashortage of homesavailable for seniors,young adults and the“missing middle.” St.Tammany Parish’s population is over 280,000and is projected to continue to increase.“As we attract newbusinesses and corporate offices who bringjobs to our community,one of the first questionsis if we have housingavailable to meet theneeds of their employees. We want businessesto thrive and our children to be able to workand live in St. Tammany,” said Parish President Mike Cooper.“Over forty percent ofour workforce live outside of our parish andcommute because of alack of housing options.The ComprehensiveHousing Needs Assessment gives our planners, leaders andstakeholders a clearerview to make more informed, better decisions on housing demand and preferences.”“The ComprehensiveHousing Needs Assessment provides our community with importantdata to consider whendiscussing the best pathforward ,” said Councilwoman Kathy Seiden.“Our housing market ison an unsustainablepath where existing demand is well below supply. I look forward tocollaborating with ourresidents and stakeholders to find the bestpath forward that meetsour long-term needs.” The Assessment projects that St. TammanyParish will need to address solutions for housing and encourages:•Collaboration to direct new housing wheremunicipal infrastructureexists or is planned.•Supporting newhousing construction inunincorporated St. Tammany Parish, where landis suitable and infrastructure is available.•Evaluating ways toencourage infill housingwhere infrastructure isavailable.•Consideration of enhanced restrictions onresidential development in flood-proneareas.•Creating a HousingTask Force to coordinateregulations, processesand future development.Parish housing study shows major shortage for ‘missing middle’LACOMBE -- Northshore TechnicalCommunity College announced itsSpring 2026 scholarship recipients,recognizing students for academicachievement, technical training, andworkforce preparation. Scholarshipsare funded through the generous support of donors and community partners.Scholarship recipients were recognized at the annual Chancellor’sScholarship Breakfasts, where theyhad the opportunity to meet thedonors and sponsors who made theirscholarships possible.Spring 2026 scholarship recipients by city:Covington•Jimmy Ryan, IV, Memorial Scholarship in Electrical, Brandon Phillips•Northshore Mustang Club and Banner Ford Scholarship, Wyatt Day•Walter G. Bumphus InformationTechnology Scholarship, Tamia Allen•Weeks Marine Scholarship in Electrician, Charlie Hunter•Weeks Marine Scholarship inWelding, Zachary Mazur and AliyahNaquinMadisonville•Weeks Marine Scholarship in Electrician, Ronald Cogley•Weeks Marine Scholarship inWelding, Diego NelsonMandeville•Gators Give Scholarship, NicolePhillips•Patricia “Patsy” Wainwright Memorial Scholarship, ManucheherKhaghani•Virginia Weeks Memorial Scholarship in Registered Nursing, BlaineCooneyNS Tech announces springscholarship recipients
MANDEVILLE – A2010 graduate fromFontainebleu HighSchool is making a bigmark with a specializedgroup of U.S. soldiers,now serving with theU.S. Navy, assigned tothe Helicopter SeaCombat Squadron(HSC) 8, at Naval AirStation North Island,California.Lt. Cmdr. RyanMcGee, a native of Mandeville, said the skills heis utilizing now to moveup in his current 15-yearmilitary career camefrom his hometown andhis parents. He is now serving as apilot with the “Eightballers” of HSC-8, whichfly and maintain the MH60S Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s versatileand most advanced rotary wing maritime platform. Their missionsinclude airborne minecountermeasures, combat search and rescue,anti-surface warfare,combat logistics andmedevac. “One lesson I learnedwhile I lived at home isthat good things cometo those who wait,”McGee said. “The bestkind of gratificationtakes time.”“I was inspired to joinbecause of my family,”McGee said. “I alsowanted to explore theworld and see different,new, and excitingplaces.”McGee has many opportunities to achieveaccomplishments during military service.“My proudest accomplishment is being in aleadership role,”McGee said. “Beingable to train the nextgeneration of fellow pilots has been rewardingin itself.”This year, the Navy iscommemorating its contribution to the nation’sdefense as the UnitedStates celebrates 250years of independence.According to Navy officials, for more than 250years, the Navy hassailed the globe defending freedom andprotecting prosperity.“To me, serving in theNavy means servingsomething that is biggerthan yourself,” McGeesaid. “Being involvedwith multiple generations of fellow pilots andground crew has beeneye opening, humbling,along with the collectivesacrifice.”McGee is grateful toothers for helping makea Navy career possible.“I would like to thankboth my mom and mydad as well as my seventh grade chemistryteacher, Mrs. D,” McGeesaid. “My parents havealways been supportiveof my decisions in lifeand have loved andcared for me. My chemistry teacher was a bigbeliever in my accomplishments early on inmy life. Last but certainly not least, I wouldlike to thank my wife,Rebecca, for alwaysbeing a pillar of stabilityin my life.”Page 4B Thursday, May 28, 2026 THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTA sailor’s path to a Navy helicopter squadronCALL OR TEXTLA LICENSED NOTARY PUBLICAfter-hours & weekend notary services availableLA Licensed Notary PublicCHIRI MOBILE NOTARY — I COME TO YOU!Fast • Professional • ConvenientServing:Slidell • Lacombe • Pearl RiverServices:• Will Packages (Last Will & Testament, Power of Attorney, Medical Power of Attorney)• Title Transfers• Lien Waivers for Businesses — on-site notarization made simpleWhy Call Me?• Flexible scheduling — evenings & weekends• Homes, offices, hospitals & more• Affordable, clear ratesThought itcouldn’t benotarized today?Lt. Cmdr. Ryan McGeeNews fromSt. Tammany WestNOW COVERING MANDEVILLE AND COVINGTONFrom Mandeville to the sea:COVINGTON – A brutal attack in 2022 thatsent shock wavesthrough the St. Tammany Parish communityis ending with the killerheading to life in prisonwith no benefit of parole, probation of suspension of sentence,District Attorney CollinSims has reported.Covington Polic werecalled when the badlyburned bodies of St.Peter Catholic ChurchRev. Otis Young and hislongtime office workerRuth Prats were discovered behind a downtown Covingtonbusiness.Antonio Tyson, 49 atthe time of the crimes,was arrested only hourslater and charged withtwo counts of First Degree Murder.Sims said that the victims’ families haveagreed to the sentencing since Tyson’s mentalimpairment wouldlikely make it hard tosentence him to thedeath penalty, which theD.A. had been seeking.Months before themurders, Tyson hadbeen released fromRayburn CorrectionalFacility after serving 30years of a 40-yearprison sentence forforcible rape, armedrobbery and burglary. Officials allege thatTyson had forced hisway into Prats' home theday before, beating andkilling her and Young,and then burning theirbodies and stealingPrats' car.The defense providedevidence, according toSims, that included historical IQ tests showingTyson's intellectual disabilities going back tochildhood. They also introduced MRI findingsthat showed traumaticbrain injury. Sentencing has beenscheduled for June 8,2026 at 9:00 a.m.Under the terms of theagreement, followingvictim impact testimonyfrom members of bothMs. Prats’ and FatherOtis Young’s families,Tyson will be sentencedas follows:•Life imprisonment athard labor without benefit of parole, probation,or suspension of sentence on each count offirst degree murder,with those life sentences to be servedconsecutively; and•40 years at hardlabor on the obstructionof justice count, to beserved consecutively tothe two life sentences.The defendant hasalso agreed to foregoany present or future efforts to seek sentencereduction or any releasemechanism now or atany time in the future.As part of the agreement, the defendant willbe housed under conditions equivalent to thoseon death row, subjectinghim to the same confinement conditions hewould have faced whileawaiting execution. Thiscondition was includedto address the families’desire that the defendant remain under conditions reflecting theseverity of the crimes,while avoiding the prolonged appeals and collateral litigation thatwould follow a capitaltrial and sentencing thatthe State may not havebeen able to reliablyexecute.The District Attorney’sOffice had been pursuing the death penaltysince the weight of theevidence in the casegave the state confidence that it would secure convictions.However, defense counsel presented compelling medicalevidence over the pastweeks raising meaningful concerns underAtkins v. Virginia regarding the defendant’sintellectual impairmentand whether a deathsentence could ultimately be carried out.While this evidence didnot raise doubt as toTyson’s guilt, his competency to stand trial, orhis sanity at the time ofthe offenses, it did create significant risk that adeath sentence imposed at trial would notwithstand appellate review and thus barringthe state from executingthe sentence of death.After multiple briefings and discussionswith the victims’ families explaining the implications of the Atkinsevidence and the risksand delay associatedwith pursuing capitalpunishment that mightnot ultimately be practicable, the state and thefamilies agreed to a negotiated resolution.Sims stated, “This outcome should not be interpreted as a reflectionon whether the deathpenalty would otherwise be appropriate.The facts and circumstances surrounding thedefendant’s guilt certainly warrant capitalpunishment given theheinous nature of the offense. However, historical IQ testing from thedefendant’s childhood,MRI findings, and otherdocumentation provided evidence of atraumatic brain injuryand a significantly lowlevel of adaptive functioning. Based on thesefactors, it would be challenging to overcome thelegal standards established by the SupremeCourt in Atkins v. Virginia. As a result, thereis a strong likelihoodthat the State wouldhave ultimately beenprecluded from pursuing an execution. Therefore, this pleaagreement secures themaximum punishmentlegally available considering Atkins and ensures that the timeserved is as restrictiveas possible, as if he wason death row, while relieving the family from alifetime of appellatechallenges.The defendant’s guiltyplea and agreed consecutive life sentencesreflect the thoroughwork of the CovingtonPolice Department, andparticularly the investigation led by CyrusKety. “Father Otis Youngand Ruth Prats weredeeply selfless, devotedservants to our community and their lossleaves a profound andlasting void for theirloved ones and foreveryone who benefited from their compassion and leadership,”Sims said.Antonio TysonTyson pleads guilty in murders of Father Otis Young and Ruth PratsFREE!
COVINGTON – District Attorney CollinSims announced that aSt. Tammany Parish juryfound John Silas Joiner,Jr., 46, of Covington,guilty on 15 counts ofnarcotics, weapons,flight, and resisting arrest charges. The unanimous verdict follows a trial before Judge RichardSwartz. Joiner, a convicted felon who was onparole at the time of hisoffenses, now faces amandatory life sentence. Swartz has scheduled sentencing for July8, 2026.The conviction stemsfrom two separate lawenforcement operationsin 2023. The first occurred in January 2023,when detectives withthe St. Tammany ParishSheriff’s Office (STPSO)conducted a traffic stopon a vehicle driven byJoiner.Joiner actively resisted arrest, striking a detective with his elbow,and briefly fled on footbefore being quicklyapprehended. A searchof the vehicle yielded450 dosage units of fentanyl, crystal methamphetamine, cocaine, adigital scale, a set ofbrass knuckles, and anAR-style 9mm pistolequipped with a 50-round drum magazine.The second incidenttook place in September 2023, after authorities intercepted a jailvideo call betweenJoiner and his co-defendant, Amanda Flocke,which showed Flocke ata kitchen table countingthousands of fentanylpills in the presence ofminor children. A subsequent search warrantexecuted by STPSO attheir Mandeville residence uncovered 2,746dosage units of counterfeit blue \"M30\" fentanyltablets, crystal methamphetamine, pharmaceutical pills, and aclandestine laboratorysetup in the garageused to press fraudulentecstasy tablets.During the trial,Flocke testified for thestate, detailing how shewas absorbed intoJoiner’s operations afterhis initial January arrest.\"I got left with the debtof everything,\" Flocketestified, referring tothe drug debt Joiner accumulated. \"After hewent to jail, I assumedall of his responsibilities.\"When questionedabout the massivecache of narcotics discovered at their residence during theSeptember search warrant, Flocke testifiedthat Joiner had misledher about the ongoingoperation, stating, \"Ithought he got rid of thedrugs because that'swhat he told me he wasgoing to do.\"In her closing arguments, Assistant DistrictAttorney ChristinaFisher pointed outJoiner's absolute disregard for the law and hisrefusal to stop dealing,even while under statesupervision.\"He did not learn,\"Fisher told the jury. \"Hewas convicted in December 2020 for felonin possession of afirearm, and in January2023, while still beingsupervised, he wasstopped for a trafficstop...Those are thepossessions of a drugdealer.\"Fisher also emphasized the dangerouscombination of firearmsand lethal narcoticsseized from Joiner, noting, \"These are dangerous weapons...theyhave no business beinghooked to a fanny packwith fentanyl pills. Hewas dealing thesedrugs; he had every intent to distribute them.\"Addressing Joiner'sdefense strategy andhis attempts to distancehimself from the Mandeville residence,Fisher reminded thejury of the physical evidence linking him to thehome. \"Ladies and gentlemen, this was hishouse; it's ridiculous tothink otherwise,\" Fishersaid.During his rebuttalclosing argument, Assistant District AttorneyIain Dover addressedthe defendant's refusalto acknowledge thestate's statutory evidence. \"Although Mr.Joiner may disagree 'tilhis very lastbreath...none of Mr.Joiner's arguments relate to what you are todo today,\" Dover toldthe jury. \"He has no willingness to change oraccept responsibility.He is a drug dealer, andhe sells.\"\"Today's verdict ensures that a dangerous,repeat offender will nolonger be able to floodour streets with lethalpoison,\" said Sims. \"Thisdefendant not onlyarmed himself whiletrafficking high volumesof fentanyl and cocaine,but he also operated aclandestine pill press ina home where youngchildren lived. I want tocommend the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff'sOffice for their thoroughinvestigations andADAs Iain Dover andChristina Fisher fortheir exceptional workin securing this conviction.\"Flocke, 40, previouslypleaded guilty on May8, 2026, to possessionwith the intent to distribute fentanyl and wassentenced by JudgeSwartz to 30 years in theDepartment of Corrections.Conviction DetailsFollowing the fourday trial, the jury returned unanimousguilty verdicts for thefollowing charges:Narcotics Offenses:•Possession with intent to distribute 250grams or more of fentanyl•Possession with intent to distribute 28grams or more ofmethamphetamine•Possession with intent to distribute lessthan 28 grams of cocaine, hydrocodone,and oxycodone (3counts total)•Possession of twograms or more, but lessthan 28 grams of fentanyl•Possession of lessthan two grams of fentanyl•Possession of lessthan two grams ofmethamphetamine•Creation or operation of a clandestinelaboratory for the unlawful manufacture of acontrolled dangeroussubstance•Transactions involving proceeds from drugoffensesWeapons Offenses:•Possession of afirearm or carrying aconcealed weapon by aperson convicted ofcertain felonies•Illegal carrying of ashort-barreled rifle andbrass knuckles while inpossession of fentanyl,methamphetamine, andcocaine (2 counts total)Flight and Violent Offenses:•Simple escape•Resisting a police officerThursday, May 28, 2026 Page 5BJohn Joiner Jr.THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTNews fromSt. Tammany WestNOW COVERING MANDEVILLE AND COVINGTONCLASSICDISHES. DISHESMANYWITHARECLASSICFUNIQUE985-288-4634Slidell, LA 70458348 Robert Blvd.7 D YS A WEEKOpen 6am to 3pm AORITE?DISHES.ARTY HEREwith all your specialty drinks.Fully stocked COFFEE BARBOOK YOUR SPECIAL PWHAT’S YOUR FAVOCOVINGTON – District AttorneyCollin Sims announced that a St. Tammany Parish Grand Jury returned truebills, indicting five individuals in connection with an extensive narcoticsdistribution network that funneledkilogram quantities of cocaine andmethamphetamine from Mexico intothe Northshore and Greater New Orleans areas.The following individuals were indicted:1. Ernesto Alonso Ruiz, 47, of SanJuan, TX--Conspiracy to Distribute 28Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance--Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Over 60 Kilograms)--Transactions Involving Proceedsfrom Drug Offenses2. Michael Anthony Gibson, 37, ofNew Orleans, LA--Conspiracy to Distribute 28Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance--Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Over 60 Kilograms)--Transactions Involving Proceedsfrom Drug Offenses3. Miguel Angel Olquin, 31, of Penitas, TX--Conspiracy to Distribute 28Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance--Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Over 60 Kilograms)--Transactions Involving Proceedsfrom Drug Offenses4. Lindsey J. Daniels, 53, of Franklinton, LA--Conspiracy to Distribute 28Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance--Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Over 3 Kilograms)5. Christopher L. Fendley, 51, ofFranklinton, LA--Conspiracy to Distribute 28Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous SubstanceThe indictment follows a comprehensive investigation into a conspiracy active between October 2025 andMay 2026. Prosecutors allege the defendants conspired to distribute morethan 79 kilograms of Schedule II controlled dangerous substances.The investigation reached a turningpoint on May 3, 2026, when authorities seized 68 kilograms of cocainefrom a tractor-trailer at a Slidell truckstop, which was carrying a full load ofproduce. An additional eight kilograms of cocaine were seized from a \"stashhouse\" in New Orleans, alongsidemore than $450,000 in cash. The streetvalue of the narcotics seized on thatday alone is estimated at approximately $3.2 million.According to investigators, the organization brought drugs intoLouisiana from Mexico via Texas. Thenarcotics were delivered to middlemen in Orleans, Washington, and St.Tammany Parishes before being distributed to local dealers for sale inthe community.The case was investigated by theLouisiana State Police, with significantsupport from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Chief of CriminalDivision Doug Freese and SpecialProsecutor Tiffany Dover are prosecuting this case for the District Attorney’s Office.Following these indictments, thedefendants will be scheduled for formal arraignment in the 22nd JudicialDistrict Court.As this is a pending and ongoingcriminal matter, the Office of the District Attorney for the 22nd JudicialDistrict will have no further commentat this time. An indictment is an accusation. All defendants are presumedinnocent until and unless provenguilty beyond a reasonable doubt ina court of law.Multi-state drug trafficking network dismantled, $3.2 million seizedMassive drug amounts allegedly linked to Covington man
Years ago, when I was in and out of mental hospitals, Millie, a kind nurse, cared for me. When I was discharged after a nine-month stay, she and her husband, Paul, reached out and encouraged me to begin memorizing God's Word. During this very difficult season of my life, I began writing verses on index cards – and fell in love with God on a deeper and deeper level. I also grew to love God’s Word! Scripture calmed me. It gave me peace and hope. Eventually, it gave me stability. The more I recognized how holy, righteous and wise God was, the more I trusted His sovereignty (His ultimate control over my life). Are you in the middle of a spiritual battle or a difficult trial? Be encouraged: This is not your “forever,” even though it feels like it is. When I spent those years in and out of mental hospitals (I was even told by professionals that I’d never get better), I felt as if my life would never change. Like I was stuck in a “forever” situation. When we, or someone we’re praying for, are in that “forever” spot, something happens when we pray as if we truly believe God’s Word. That He is powerful. Good. Wise. Holy. Sovereign. And that this powerful, good, wise, holy, sovereign God … loves … us. And loves the people on our prayer list. Proverbs 9:10 (ESV) says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” Pause for a moment and imagine life for those who don’t know Christ…those who don’t fear God. They have no anchor for truth, wisdom or hope. How does this perspective deepen your gratitude for God’s Word? His sovereignty? Consider how a reverent fear of God protects us. The fear of God is the beginning of – the starting point – of knowing right from wrong. Growing in the knowledge of God provides the insight we need in our “forever” situation. After I came to revere and know God on a deeper level, I was better able to submit my life, my will and even my emotions to a loving, holy, wise and sovereign God … and was set free from major depression. Let’s pray: Every time we read Your Word, Lord, whenever we enter into worship, every time we pray … may we picture ourselves at Your throne of grace, kneeling, fully aware of Your goodness, Your majesty, Your sovereignty … present and intervening in our “forever” situation. (Sheryl Hilker Boldt, a Slidell High graduate, author of the blog, www.TodayCanBeDifferent.net. She can be reached at [email protected].) Slidell InspirationDr. Benjamin Rush M.D. in a speech delivered in January 1787 said: “Every man (woman) in a republic is public property. His time and talents - his youth - his manhood - his old age - and more, life, all, belong to his country… Patriots come forward! Your country demands your services.” (Our Founding Father’s Prayers and Declarations, Morris St Angelo, 2026, page 61) Dr. Rush established a challenging standard for the United States, regarded by many as unattainably high. His legacy was firmly set when he signed the Declaration of Independence, and later served as a medical battlefield doctor throughout the war for Independence. Dr. Rush witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made in pursuit of liberty. To honor such contributions, the United States has designated Memorial Day as a time for all Americans to pause and reflect on the cost of freedom. Throughout history, war has changed vibrant green fields into places of remembrance for those patriots who sacrificed everything for freedom. American soldiers do not fight to increase their nation's territory; instead, they aim to defend America and help liberate others. President Franklin D. Roosevelt described D Day in his radio address on June 6, 1944, as \"a mighty endeavor to set free a suffering humanity,\" offering a perspective beyond simply calling it an invasion. Far from America's peaceful shores, an entire continent witnessed the courage of men fighting to release people from oppressive rule. The fifty men alongside Dr Rush were not on a suicide mission when they signed the now famous Declaration inscribed on parchment. They pledged their “lives” not to die, but to live and use all their talents and energies to provide a better life for their compatriots. He made this plea for America to rise to the call for action; “Hear her (USA) proclaiming, in sighs and groans, in her governments, in her finances, in her trade, in her manufactures, in her morals, and in her manners, “THE REVOLUTION IS NOT OVER!” (ibid) Although I have never officially served in the United States military—aside from a short stint in the ROTC at Louisiana State University— Every day I wear the uniform of a Christian Patriot forged in the crucible of 1776. I strive to live by the Christian Patriot’s code of ethics: God, Country, Duty. Serving God and sharing His message of Salvation are, in my view, essential responsibilities as a Christian. I deeply value the title “American” that this generous nation has given me. I am actively committed to preserving the inheritance passed down from our forefathers, ensuring it endures for our children, their descendants, and all future generations. In His wisdom, God established America. The first people to arrive on these shores prayed and raised a cross. When the U.S. Constitution was written, they believed a nation could not be built without God. Those convictions formed the bedrock of our foundation. (ibid, 21-22) If we ever surrender our faith and our patriotism the entire world will suffer loss. Are you serving as a Christian Patriot? (Pastor Morris St Angelo, Lead Minister of Slidell Ministers Association. Email: [email protected] Search for Morris St Angelo on YouTube and Facebook.) By MORRIS ST. ANGELO SLIDELL MINISTERS ASSOCIATIONDid you happen to see the impressive red-carpet treatment that President Trump received when he recently visited China? The red carpet is a longstanding symbol of respect, honor, and royal status that dates to 458 B.C. Today the red-carpet treatment is often accorded to celebrities in politics, business, sports, and entertainment. If anyone ever deserved such an exceptional reception it was certainly Jesus. True God, Jesus possessed all the divine attributes and embarked on a mission of unparalleled importance for the entire world. However, what Jesus deserved (the redcarpet treatment) and what Jesus received at the hands of people were two entirely different realities. Oh, to be sure, Jesus occasionally found a welcome mat with certain people and in certain homes, but those modest displays of recognition fell far, far short of the royal red carpet treatment Jesus deserved. Instead of receiving a red-carpet reception befitting His status, Jesus’ path was strewn with rejection, insincerity, hatred, murderous threats, and eventually even abandonment and crucifixion. That’s not exactly what you would call a red-carpet reception, is it? Despite the reception people gave to Jesus, His Heavenly Father did, indeed, provide the ultimate red carpet treatment befitting Jesus. This was the red carpet rolled out for Jesus at His birth at Bethlehem, at His baptism at the Jordan River, as He entered the desert of temptation, as He ministered to every human need, and as He proclaimed, “The Kingdom of God is at-hand.” As Jesus’ mission approached its culmination, that divine red carpet was rolled out by His Father again. It led Jesus to dark Gethsemane, to the judgment hall, and out to Calvary. This red carpet was a statement of divine approval, divine recognition, and supreme honor. And, indeed, the red carpet was there when Jesus emerged from His tomb on Easter and as He ascended to His heavenly throne 40 days later. In mercy, the Lord gives us undeserved royal status through His grace: “You are a royal priesthood.” (1 Peter 2) He rolls out before us the red carpet that befits our royal standing in His eyes. His red carpet leads us to the baptismal waters, to His Holy Supper, and to His Holy Word. His red carpet leads us into His presence as we pray. His red carpet leads us to His church where we gather in His Name to receive His gifts and give Him our praise. His red carpet leads us to other people and their needs where we provide His divine service of love. And finally, His red carpet will be there leading us out of this world into heaven itself. Confident in His leading, we joyfully and dutifully put one foot ahead of the next. We, His people, walk in His Name on the red carpet of His grace, mercy, and peace. (Rev. Jan Case is a retired Slidell Lutheran Minister and can be contacted at [email protected])The red-carpet treamentBy JAN CASERetired Lutheran Slidell Minister By SHERYL HILKER BOLDT Guest ColumnistBe encouraged: This is not your ‘forever’Christian Patriots formed the bedrock of AmericaIn John 3:1-21, Jesus talked to a highly educated religious Hebrew man named Nicodemus about how he could enter into the kingdom of God. He told him, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” v.3. Nicodemus knew a lot about God and God’s laws but he really didn’t have a personal relationship with Him. Jesus, on the other hand, being the Son of God, had a very intimate relationship with His Father. Nicodemus had often heard Jesus speak in the Temple courtyards and around Jerusalem and was intrigued at His knowledge of religious matters. As he talked with Jesus, Jesus told him that he could have the same kind of relationship with God by being “born again.” Being a “carnal” student of religion, Nicodemus had no idea what Jesus was talking about. He only knew that people were born as babies. Jesus explained to Nicodemus that there are two kinds of births: one physical – from a mother’s womb, and one spiritual – by the regeneration of one’s spirit by the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” The number one thing that sets Christianity apart from religion is the born again experience. We don’t just have a sure way to get to heaven, we have actually been born from above. We have the joy of intimate relationship with the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit because we are in constant communication with them due to the truth that they are living in our born again spirit. Now we are living in our eternal life. We don’t have to wait until our physical bodies die; it is the quality of life and spiritual blessing that we live in from the moment we are born again. Christianity is not a religion, it is a divine relationship. As a believer, you have the joy and exciting privilege of that intimate relationship with God, your Father, and Jesus, your Lord and Savior through the Holy Spirit who lives inside you. The Holy Spirit is our Comforter, our Counselor, our Helper, our Intercessor, our Advocate, our Strengthener, our Standby, and He guides us into all truth. Today, enjoy being a born again Believer who has embarked on a most exciting eternal journey of Joy with your Creator. (Peggy R. Clark is a Prison Chaplain with Maranatha Grace Ministries, [email protected] maranathagraceministries.com) The joy of regenerationBy PEGGY CLARK Prison Chaplain with Maranatha Grace MinistriesPage 6B Thursday, May 28, 2026 THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT
THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENT Thursday, May 28, 2026 Page 7B“Phrases”By Myles MellorAcross1. Juice drinks5. Luxury home features9. Extension14. San Francisco rail system15. Gold medalist Lipinski16. Alpine classic17. Snug as a ____19. \"___ and his money ...\"20. Indigenous22. School of thought23. Huntsman Center team24. Provoke26. Come to ___ with29. Contemplate34. Harry Potter's best friend35. Pitch37. Stuck in a __38. ___ be good if39. A little chat40. Bishop or rook41. Data Act, abbr.42. Newsman Peter43. Tuscan time period44. Surveying instruments46. It's on the ___48. 'Monty Python' opener49. Tow behind you51. All-purpose vehicle, forshort53. \"Caught you, at long last!\"59. Taken ____61. Hackneyed condition62. Special Forces cap63. Rake feature64. Incurs65. Form an intersection66. Writes67. Card gameDown1. Mamma Mia singers2. Quick stroke3. Consequently4. Incite5. Kind of coach6. Home to Notre Dame7. Give ___ for one's money8. Prose epic9. \"I see!\"10. Beards11. \"Vaya con ___\"12. Laker, Lamar13. Opposite of all18. Louse babies21. Occupy25. \"Let Freedom ___\"26. Dishonest money27. Helicopter propeller28. Soul singer Arie29. Flying fish eaters30. Lizard look-alike31. Knight's protection32. Watchman33. Bunsen burner cousins35. ___ the Redeemer, statuethat looks over Rio36. It ___ apples!39. Play group45. Some relations46. Batting practice backdrop47. Accounting concepts49. Islamic spirit50. Solemn ceremonies51. Global car service52. Hawaiian staple54. Start of many addresses55. Great Lake56. Request57. Court grp.58. \"Check this out!\"59. Start of a children's song60. Gold units, abbr.Slidell PuzzlerFor puzzle answers see page 8B. SUDOKU by Myles Mellor and Susan Flanagan“Christmas” by Myles MellorFind 15 words in any direction. Circle when found.58516 Pearl Acres Rd., Slidell985-643-6017Pastor Jerry Smith -- StateLicensed Christian CounselingSunday Service: Bible Study,9:15am; Worship, 10:30am.Ministries: Early LearningCenter, Sewing Ministry, Ministries for all ages.Choir/Orchestra/Praise TeamDiscovergrace.usSMA is for Pastors and Christian Ministers togather in unity. We are united in Jesus Christ, crucified and resurrected. If you have a Christianministry of any kind and would like to be involvedin our work, we would love to have you join us.For more information: [email protected] Morris St. Angelo or Chaplain David ZieglerSlidell Minister’s Association 62340 Highway 1090, Pearl River985-863-9444www.generationsnola.comLead Pastor Chad CocranSunday Worship: 9am & 10:30amGenerations Youth meets everyWednesday evening at 7pmBible classes and small groupsmeet midweek.Generations Church2263 2nd St., corner of 2nd andRobert St., Slidell 678-372-0470camelliacitychurch.comPastors Brenn and Kristin ButtsService: Sunday at 10amCamellia City Church433 Erlanger Ave, Slidell985-643-6437www.firstumcslidell.orgSunday Worship: 9:45am & 11amAdult Classes on Sunday9:30am & 9:45amPreK-6th grade on Sunday9:45am & 11amCrossroads youth ministrySunday, 5pm-7 pmFirst United Methodist Church of Slidell1000 Caruso Blvd., Unit 415,Slidell, LA 70461985-661-2086brideadornedchurch.orgPastor Joseph PedreiraSunday Service: 10amYouth & Young Adults:Wednesday: 6:30pmBride Adorned Church35300 Home Estate Drive, Slidell, LA 70460985 641-2109“Blessing Box”Find us at - facebook.com/GoodShepherdLutheranChurchSlidellReverend Robert BelknapSunday Worship Service: 10:30amSunday School & Adult Bible Study9amMid-week Bible Study:Thursday 11:30am Good Shepherd Lutheran Church LCMSGrace Memorial Baptist Church2395 East Gause Road,Suite 7, SlidellWorship: 10a.m.A Bible teaching ministry Bible Study, 7p.m. Wednesdays at 211 Hollow Rock CourtDr. Ansley Orfila, pastor985-886-1480Church of the Savior61305 Airport Road Slidell(985) 726-5179Whitedove.orgFB: WhiteDoveFellowshipPastors Tom & Michelle MillerSunday, 8am & 10:30amCelebrate RecoveryWednesdays, 7pmYoung Adult Bible StudyThursdays, 6:30pmIntercessory PrayerMondays, 6pmWhite Dove Church Northshore890 Robert Blvd., SlidellPastor Robert RobinsonServices: Sunday School, 9:30am;Worship, 10:30am.Wednesday Bible Study: 5:45pm985-290-4123Covenant Baptist Church388 Robert Blvd, Slidell985-643-8760 www.pentecostalsonline.orgFacebook: First PentecostalChurch of SlidellDonald Bryan, PastorService Times:Sundays at 10:30amWednesdays at 7pmBilling Address: 388 RobertBlvd, Slidell, LA 70458First Pentecostal Church
Lock One LunkerWeeks of heavy rain have made fishing tough for bass fishermen on the Northshore, but for Covington angler Jason Pittman, the nasty weather ended up producing the fish of a lifetime. Pittman was fishing the Bass Assassins tournament out of Lock #1 in Pearl River. He was fishing with his dad, Floyd, when the team found themselves battling brutal conditions just an hour after blast-off. “It was pouring,” Pittman said. “The bilge pump was running nonstop.” Despite the weather, the team kept fishing and eventually made their way into an area where Pittman began scanning with his live sonar and spotted a mark that he did not think was a bass. “I saw it on LiveScope and at first I thought it was a gar or maybe a catfish,” he said. “But as I kept looking at it, I knew it was moving different.” Pittman picked up a spinning rod rigged with a 3.8-inch Hi Roller Electric Shad made by Black Label Lures on a 1/8-ounce Hi Roller jig head made by Primal Lures. “I flipped it out there in front of him and watched it sink,” Pittman said. “I knew I had gotten close to it because the fish kind of spun around a little bit and acted kind of weird.” Pittman said the fish moved too fast to be a catfish or gar. Then the fish disappeared off the screen. “I lost it on the screen, but I kept looking and watched it reappear,” he said. It moved toward his lure and struck. “When it hit, it just dogged me,” Pittman said. The fish surged up toward the surface of the water and went airborne. “It didn’t try and spit the hook,” he said. “It made a somersault and splashed back down into the water.” The fish made one more deep run while Pittman kept the line taut. Pittman says the light spinning tackle made the fight even more intense. “I was using a KastKing Assegai medium-light spinning rod and at one point I thought the rod tip was going to touch the water it was bent over so much.” As the bass finally came toward the boat, Floyd slid the net underneath it. That’s when the reality of the catch finally hit them both. “When he scooped it up we just looked at each other,” Pittman said. “That’s when I realized how big it really was.” The bass weighed 7.5 pounds and instantly became the highlight of the rainy tournament. When looking back on the day, Pittman said they almost decided not to go. “If it would have been raining when we woke up, I’m not too sure we would have pulled the boat out of the garage,” he said. “But being the bass junkies that we are, we knew there was a front coming and that there was a good chance it would ignite the bite.” In the end, it all added up to a memorable morning with a fish that will stay in their memories forever. “It was a memorable fish and a real blessing that I was able to catch it that morning,” Pittman said. Tournament Results FPBA held it’s May tournament at Lock One under conditions that tested every angler on the water. Pre-blast-off conversation centered on cell phone radar apps and the approaching rain. While radar can give you a warning, nothing quite prepares you for what it's like to actually be out there in it. For those who weren't running a properly working auto bilge pump, the day carried an extra layer of concern. For four to five hours, competitors endured heavy rain and frequent lightning, sending most boaters scrambling for shelter wherever they could find it. When the worst finally passed, a steady rain settled in for the remainder of the day. When it came to the fishing, it was a day of extremes. Some teams hit grand slams while others could barely manage a bunt, with very little in between. Taking first place was the reunited Team Pittman, with Jason Pittman and the returning Floyd Pittman back together again. The duo made the most of the tough conditions, bringing in a 15.81-pound bag anchored by the big bass of the day, a 7.67-pound largemouth. Second place went to the team of Darrick Neale and Darren Welch, who put together an impressive 13.43-pound bag highlighted by a 4.95-pound kicker. An outstanding sack on any day, just unfortunate timing given the brutal weather. Rounding out the top three was the team of Melvin and Wendell Myers with 5.26 pounds. Upcoming TournamentsPearl River Team Trails will hold its next tournament at the East Pearl River on June 13. For more information, call Charles Dauzat at 985-960-3260. FPBA is holding itsnext tournament atBayou Bienvenue onJune 13. For more information please contactPatrick Engerran at 985-474-6112. (Keith Lusher Jr.writes a weekly column. For more info,visit NorthshoreFishingReport.com. Contact Keith [email protected].)Page 8B Thursday, May 28, 2026 THE SLIDELL INDEPENDENTCovington bass angler Jason Pittman holds up the 7.5-pound lunker that highlighted a rain-soaked morning at Lock #1.Darrick Neale and Darren Welch finished second in the Bass Assassins tournament at Lock #1 with a 13.43-pound bag. Keith LusherCarols Chimney Decorations Elves Naughty Nice Presents Reindeer Rudolph Sacks Santa Scrooge Sleigh Star Tree Answers from puzzles on page 7B.