Winter weather has lingered a little too long in South Louisiana, more than we are accustomed to.

Infrastructure has proven to be completely vulnerable to Mother Nature in the right circumstances. The unprecedented damage across the state demonstrated how vulnerable we all are, not just our government.

Business and Government operations across the state were shut down as a result of the damage left and conditions of the ice storm. Courageous first responders and essential personnel crews worked diligently to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents.

St. John was not the only parish with water problems. This was not just a St. John Problem; the southeast region of our state experienced water outages, low water pressure and boil water advisories, just as St. John did.

Residents are reminded to make preparations for winter freezes and take every precaution necessary to protect your pipes.

Should residents or a business experience a busted pipe they should immediately shut the water off at the main water line and dial 911 to report it.

A list of safety tips are available at sjbparish.com. Residents are also encouraged to check the Louisiana State Police’s website for up-to-date road conditions and closures at lsp.org.

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After Oct. 10, residents will not be able to fly domestically unless they have a passport to present. A Real ID compliant license or identification card will be required.

To obtain a Real ID compliant license or identification card, residents must go to any Office of Motor Vehicle location to make an application which can be done at time of issuance, renewal or reinstatement.

Documents needed to complete the application are an original or certified copy of birth certificate, other proof of identity and proof of United States citizen ship or lawful status in the United States, social security card and two different bills or other proofs of the applicant’s residence.

The Real ID will have a gold circle star cutout on the top right section of the ID.

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As we enter spring and grass will start growing again, residents are reminded to keep catch basins and ditches clean to prevent further blockages in our drainage system.

St. John has put together a list of great tips and more information for you to view and share on best practices to make sure our systems are kept clear.

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Former Parish President Arnold Labat passed away on Jan. 8. He served as St. John Parish President for three terms, which consisted of twelve years. We send our thoughts and prayers to the entire Labat family for their loss. Flags were flown at half-staff in his memory.

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My thoughts and prayers go out to a reserve family of 8 that lost their home on Saturday due to a fire.

Six children aged from 18 months to 9 years old and their parents were among those who lost everything. A GoFundMe account has been created as well as a drop off site at New Rescue Mission Baptist Church at 361 E. 14th Street in Reserve from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For more information on how to help, please visit lobservateur.com with detailed information on items needed for the children, or by calling 985-703-1560. One of our own needs your help St. John.

Michael P. Wright is St. John the Baptist Parish Council District 5 representative and Council vice chairman. Contact him at District5@sjbparish.com or m.wright@sjbparish.com.