This year the St. Bernard Business and Professional Women will honor Anthony Arthur “Tony” Fernandez, Jr. and Dr. Tina Molero Tinney as its 2023 Man and Woman of the Year. Held each year during National Business Women's Week, this year's event will take place at the Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette on Wednesday, October 18 beginning with a cash bar at 6:30 p.m.

For the second time in three years, the St. Bernard Parish Hospital (SBPH) was recognized by LAMMICO— an insurance company for medical facilities throughout the south—for its dedication to patient safety. On Monday, September 11, SBPH officials held an awards ceremony to announce that they were the recipients of the 8th annual 2022-2023 LAMMICO Patient Safety Award Grant. This award highlighted SBPH’s success in implementing pre- vention measures for Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI).

A former engineer for the St. Bernard Parish Government (SBPG) Water & Sewer Department as an engineer was arrested in late August for hundreds of counts of possession of child pornography.

Wanda Alcon has qualifi ed for Council at Large East in the October 14 election. She has served as the Council member for District D for the last two terms.

Our Lady of Prompt Succor celebrated the grand opening of its state-of-theart STREAM lab with a ribbon cutting ceremony and blessing Aug. 23. This lab is a SMART lab where Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math come together so students can create solutions to real- world problems.

Wilfred Louis Huet, also known as Mr. Willie Huet, passed away on August 31, 2023 in LaPlace, La., at the age of 97. He was born on November 20, 1925, in New Orleans, La. He was a devoted father, husband, and proud American. Wilfred’s family and loved ones meant the world to him. He was the loving husband to the late Beverly M. Huet. Caring father to Gregory Louis Huet (Ingrid) and Michele Huet Gardner (David); grandfather to Ashley Renee, Kaylyn Michele and Brennan David; bonus grandfather to Lauren Rice and Michaela Rice; uncle to many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Rene and Fortunee Huet; his siblings, Rene, Margarite, Yvette and Doris Huet. Wilfred served in the United States Army as a Rifleman in WWII, with America’s greatest generation under General Patton’s 3rd Army division, specifically the 65th Infantry. He demonstrated bravery and dedication to his country, earning the WWII Victory Medal and Good Conduct Medal. After the war, Wilfred was honorably discharged and stationed in Germany at the Supreme Allied Headquarters. Professionally, Wilfred worked as a Superintendent at JAX Brewery for over 25 years until its closing. He then became a Warehouse Superintendent at Dameron and Pearson. Throughout his career, he displayed hard work and commitment. He was a man of faith. His Roman Catholic beliefs held a significant place in his life, and he maintained strong convictions as a believer in Christ our Savior. Beyond his professional and military life, Wilfred had a diverse range of hobbies. He was an active runner and sports enthusiast, participating in numerous long- distance road races and gaining recognition as a serious competitor for over 20 years. In addition to running, he enjoyed working out, fishing, golfing, crabbing, and traveling. Las Vegas was a favorite spot that he and his late wife made many trips to visit. Wilfred Louis Huet will be remembered for his kindness, love and dedication to his family, country, and community. May he rest in peace. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that all donations be made to help the less fortunate. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, La., on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. A funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the Family Guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

In loving memory of James “Buddy” Hernandez, Sr., a kind and gentle soul who lived a simple yet profound life, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on August 29, 2023. He was the loving husband to the late Lynda Calhoun Hernandez. Caring father to Debra Hernandez Fos, Lorraine Jackson Hernandez, Scarlett Thompson, James “Jimmy” Hernandez Jr., Danny Hernandez, Ricky Hernandez, Warren Hernandez, Tony Hernandez, Wayne Hernandez and Larry Hernandez; grandfather to 9 grandchildren; great-grandfather to 11 great-grandchildren and great great-grandfather to 6 great great-grandchildren. Proud brother of Jane Hernandez Puglia. He is preceded in death by his 1st wife Betty Mae Arcement Hernandez Simmons; his parents Bradley Hernandez Sr., and Blanche Rodriguez Hernandez Parker; his siblings, Edna Hernandez O’Rourke, Douglas Hernandez Sr., Hudson “Tea” Hernandez, Carroll Hernandez, Bradley Hernandez Jr., and Warren Hernandez. Born in New Orleans, La., on April 30, 1932, James “Buddy” grew up in a time when life was simpler, and he carried those values with him throughout his years. He was a devoted family man, finding joy in the company of his loved ones. One of Buddy’s favorite pastimes was riding around his beloved neighborhood, visiting neighbors, and sharing stories. He was the kind of neighbor who made everyone feel welcome and appreciated, bringing smiles to their faces with his friendly demeanor. James “Buddy” had a special place in his heart for neighborhood cafés, where he would spend hours sipping coffee, chatting with friends, and making new acquaintances. These cafés were not just places for him to enjoy a cup of coffee; they were hubs of community and connection. James’ life was a testament to the beauty of simplicity, the importance of family, and the power of genuine connections with others. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In our hearts, his memory will live on as a reminder of the richness that can be found in a life well-lived. Relatives and friends attended a visitation and funeral service held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., in Chalmette, La., on Wednesday, September 6, 2023. Interment: St. Bernard Catholic Cemetery, St. Bernard, La. To view and sign the Family Guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Walter 'Jimmy' Champagne, of Pearl River, La., passed away on Monday, August 28, 2023 at the age of 85. He was born in New Orleans, La., on December 4, 1937. Jimmy graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1955. While attending Holy Cross, Jimmy met the love of his life, Lynn Ripoll Champagne, and the two became high school sweethearts. They married in 1957 and were married for 65 years, creating many cherished memories along the way. Jimmy attended Louisiana State University and was extremely proud of the fact that he lived in Tiger Stadium while attending LSU. He proudly served in the United States Air Force Reserves. Jimmy was a Wharfman at Mobile Oil in Chalmette, Louisiana, and retired after 30 years of dedicated service. He was a skilled and talented woodworker and an avid golfer. He was a Professional World Champion Decoy Duck Carver, who won numerous awards for his beautiful carvings. Jimmy was a character, never at a loss for words and was always the 'life of the party.' He was loved by everyone who knew him and will be sorely missed by all. Jimmy was the proud father of Jody Champagne Randle (wife of the late Larry Randle) and Randy J. Champagne (husband of Ellen Champagne). Jimmy adored his grandchildren, Britni Lynn Champagne (deceased), Mollie Randle, and Tyler J. Champagne, as well as, his great-grandchildren, Bailey, Boston, Ava, Kaylen, and Sydney. He was an adoring brother of Gayle Champagne Hunter; brother-in-law of Al Hunter; and sister-in-law of Sandy Ripoll Trosclair. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, Marjorie Landry Champagne and Percy P. Champagne. Relatives and friends attended a visitation and Funeral Mass on Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at Audubon Funeral Home, 61101 Hwy. 11 in Slidell, La. Jimmy was laid to rest in Forest Lawn Cemetery following the services. Memories and condolences may be expressed at www.audubonfuneralhome.com.

Sister Helene Marie Robin, the oldest of 12 children, was born to Helen (Smith) and Samuel Robin on February 9, 1939 in Brookhaven, Ms. She was given the name Sammie Evelyn after her father and aunt. The family of seven boys and five girls was a very close-knit family. Evelyn attended St. Francis of Assisi Parochial School, staffed by the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND). Inspired by the Sisters, she entered the Aspiranture of the SSNDs in St. Louis, Mo., and completed her secondary education at the St. Mary of the Pines, Chatawa, Ms. On August 24, 1958, Evelyn and her sister Bertha received the candidate's veil at the SSND convent in Brookhaven. Evelyn was received into the novitiate on July 28, 1959, and given the name Helene Marie. She professed first vows on July 29, 1960, and final vows on July 25, 1966. Sister Helene Marie received a bachelor's degree in art from Notre Dame College, St. Louis, Mo., and a master's degree in elementary education from Incarnate Word College, San Antonio, Tx. In 1962, Sister Helene Marie began her ministry of forty years in elementary education. Sister Helene taught in New Orleans, Metairie, Crowley, Marrero, Chalmette, and Lake Charles, La. She also taught in Laurel, Jackson, and McComb, Ms. In 2002, Sr. Helene Marie began a new ministry in Pastoral Care at Wynhoven Health Care Center in Marrero, Louisiana. She spent nine years ministering and caring for the elderly at this facility. She moved to St. Mary of the Pines and continued this ministry by caring for the needs of the sisters in the retirement facility. In 2019, Sister Helene Marie moved to St. Anthony's Gardens, Covington, Louisiana. In April 2023, she underwent heart surgery, but her health began to decline. She passed away peacefully at Trinity Trace Community Care Center in Covington around 8:10 a.m. on August 25, 2023. Sister Helene Marie was a very creative teacher and wonderful community member. She loved art, nature, music, and movies. She saw beauty in everything and reflected this in her life. May she now rejoice in beholding the beauty of her loving God as she enters eternal life. Relatives and friends attended the Mass and shared fond memories of Sister Helene Marie Robin on Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 501 Holy Trinity Dr., in Covington, La. Rev. Rodney Bourg officiated. Interment: St. Mary of the Pines Cemetery, Chatawa, Ms. To view services, go to the livestreamed Mass icon on the parish website: www.mhtcc.net. To view and sign the online guestbook, please visit www.serenitycovington.com.

Melvin William Schiel passed away on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 in Slidell, La., at the age of 87. Native of New Orleans. Beloved husband for over 67 years of Gail T. Schiel. Loving father of Sharon Bouche and her husband Joseph, and Jill Richardson and her husband Joseph. Devoted 'Gramps' of Joseph A. Bouche' III and his wife Brittany, Cheri Bouche' Reilly, Andrew W. Richardson and his wife, Valerie, and Megan Richardson Schwing and her husband, Harris. Devoted great-grandfather of Evan Bouche', Emily Bouche', Elise Bouche', Madison Reilly, Aubrey Reilly, Carter Richardson, Lincoln Richardson, and Gavin 'Hank' Schwing. Melvin is preceded in death by his parents, the late William 'Dutch' and Julia 'Doddie' Melerine Schiel, as well as his loving great-grandson, Ethan J. Bouche'. Mel grew up in Delacroix Island, St Bernard Parish, and moved to the 9th Ward in New Orleans. He met his forever love, best friend and soulmate, Gail, at a Mardi Gras Ball Dance during their high school years. They immediately started to date and fell in love; he even switched schools from Holy Cross to Nichols High School to be with his love. They moved to Chalmette in St. Bernard Parish, where they made their home for most of their years and raised their two daughters, Sharon and Jill. They built a house in Buccaneer Villa North where they made many forever friendships hanging out at the neighborhood swim club. There and most everywhere, Mel was always the life of the party, quite the dresser, always had perfect hair, and was a joy to be around. Mel was a proud New Orleans Firefighter, serving his last post at NOFD Fire Station Engine 36 on Read Road in New Orleans East. Besides his regular duties, he was also the fire truck driver and cook. It was there he earned the name and CB Handle of 'Honest Mel', because of his always playing silly jokes on everyone. Mel also enjoyed fishing, camping, and dancing with Gail. Later in life, you could find both of them at the casino, which was their weekend home. Mel will be deeply missed by all. The family would like to especially acknowledge the staff of SummerHouse Park Provence of Slidell, LA for their devotion and care of Mel & Gail these last 3 years. Relatives and friends attended the Prayer Service and Gathering held at Serenity Funeral Home, 20419 Hwy. 36, in Covington, La., on Thursday, September 7, 2023. Private interment will be held at St. Bernard Memorial Gardens, Chalmette, La., at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home of Covington, La. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests Masses to be said in Melvin's honor.