Preventable tragedies claimed the lives of four area residents over the weekend.

Saturday, January 27, at approximately 5 p.m., the Savage Forks Fire Department responded to a mobile home fire in the 200 block of Kyle Lane.  Firefighters found the body of an elderly male resident in the bedroom.  No name will be released until the investigators complete their determination.  They believe the fire began in the living room area of the mobile home and then spread.  They have not ruled out unsafe heating practices as a contributing factor to the fire.

The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office responded Sunday, January 28, to an early morning phone call to the Vernon Parish E911 Center of a possible missing boater on Vernon Lake.  Area first responders, agents with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and Vernon deputies began their search upon arriving.  A body was recovered from the lake shortly after 4 p.m. and identified as 42-year-old Derek Green of Pineville, Louisiana.  LDWF investigators determined that Green had two juveniles in the boat and was running the trolling motor when a wave caused Green to fall from the vessel. He surfaced a few times before going under, according to his passengers.  According to authorities, Green was unable to swim and was not wearing a life jacket.  The body was turned over to the Vernon Parish Coroner’s Office to determine the cause of death.

Thursday, January 25, shortly after noon, the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office received a report of a house fire on Savage Forks Road. Fire crews from Savage Forks, New Llano, Leesville, Rosepine, Sundown and Sandy Hill responded to extinguish the blaze. The fire crews discovered human remains inside the building.

The State Fire Marshall’s Office investigated the fire and determined it had been set intentionally.

The Vernon Parish Coroner’s Office examined the bodies and made tentative identification.

Detectives with the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office believe this was a fatal domestic violence incident. The names of the victims are being withheld at the family’s request.

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The Vernon Parish School Board held the Parish Social Studies Fair at the Fairgrounds Auditorium on Friday, January 19. Thanks to Ms. Deanna Vinson for providing the list of winners. The top two in each category now advance to the Regional Social Studies Fair. Following are the names of the winners from every category:

Division I Individual

Anthropology
Averie Shaw – Parkway – 1st place
Ramsey Benjamin – Simpson – 2nd place
Sadie Wellman – Hicks – 3rd place

Economics
Rain Miller – Simpson – 1st place
Ava Gonzales – Rosepine – 2nd place
Garyn Jeter – Simpson – 3rd place

Geography
Joey Nemac – Parkway – 1st place
Samantha Craft – Vernon – 2nd place
Baya Brittain – Rosepine – 3rd place

History
Presley Black – Hicks – 1st place
Auria Robertson – Simpson – 2nd place
Tab Power – Hicks – 3rd place

Louisiana History
Mathilda Black – Rosepine – 1st place
Kenli Shelley – Pitkin – 2nd place
Alaina Chandler – Hicks – 3rd place

Political Science
Zeplin Goodwin – Hicks – 1st place

Sociology
Loren Friis – Vernon – 1st place
Harper Lewis – Vernon – 2nd place
Natalie Lewis – Simpson – 3rd place

Division 1 Group

Anthropology
Blaki Brister & Carlee Knight – Rosepine – 1st place
Khloe Ibarra & Luna Johnson – Vernon – 2nd place
Jerian Rodriguez & Remington Martin – Simpson – 3rd place

Economics
Layne Chaney, Eli Gilcrease & James Keenan – Rosepine – 1st place
Mason Cooper & Tucker Rachal – Simpson – 2nd place
Huson Hughes & Paxton Skerat – Vernon – 3rd place

Geography
Alijah McNeal & Isiana Simmons – Vernon – 3rd place

History
Olivia Haustermann & Maggie Keil – Vernon – 1st place
Emma Bumgarner & Olivia Gaudette – Vernon – 2nd place
Edison Parr & Charlie Williams – Vernon – 3rd place

Sociology
Hadley George & Madelyn Balach – Vernon – 2nd place
Nottiya Davis & Ah’nihra Pittman – Vernon – 3rd place

Division II Individual

Anthropology
Evern McWilliams – LJHS – 1st place
Olivia Wojciechowska – Vernon – 2nd place
Desirae Burke – Vernon – 3rd place

Economics
Sarah Blanco – Vernon – 1st place
Ansley Gilcrease – Rosepine – 2nd place
Daliya Laster – Pickering – 3rd place

Geography
Anderson Boyle – Vernon – 1st place
Lane Parker – Hicks – 2nd place
Maria Rubio – Hicks – 3rd place

History
Levial Bell – Vernon – 1st place
Lydia Van Berge – Vernon – 2nd place
Hunter Moore – Simpson – 3rd place

Louisiana History
Brooklyn Thacker – Hicks – 1st place
Leora Slater – Anacoco – 2nd place
Savannah Perkins – Vernon – 3rd place

Political Science
Corbin Wilbanks – Hicks – 1st place
Coleman Florendo – LJHS – 2nd place
Kenzie Altenburger – Hicks – 3rd place

Sociology
Jayla Soniat – Vernon – 1st place
Charleigh Wilson – Hicks – 2nd place
Slade Merchant – Hicks – 3rd place
Division II Group

Anthropology
Ava Roberts & Kole Maattala – Simpson – 1st place
Austin Rowlands & Avery Stemple – Vernon – 2nd place
Thomas Martell & Dustin Williams – Vernon – 3rd place

Economics
Corin Preciado & Harper Fletcher – Vernon – 1st place
Teagan Morrison & Chloe Miller – Pickering – 2nd place

Geography
Rylie Shelly & Paisley Alexander – Hornbeck – 1st place
Isaiah Dagsaan & Jace Sannicholas – Vernon – 2nd place
Lathan Jackson & Izaiah Franca – Vernon – 3rd place

History
Kynleigh Donelson & Olivia Marze – Vernon – 1st place
Madelyn Moore & Magnolia Martin – Simpson – 2nd place
John Beckwith & Grayson Temple – Simpson – 3rd place

Louisiana History
Aubree Marker & Emily Shepard – Vernon – 1st place
Payton Schwartz & Kylee Bryant – Vernon – 2nd place

Sociology
Lucas Langhorne & Haston Fontenot – Rosepine – 1st place
Julianna Aiken & Kymani Owens – Vernon – 2nd place
Landon May & Mason Ward – Hornbeck – 3rd place

Division III Individual

Anthropology
Lina Mills-Zacapa – LHS – 1st place
Annabelle Lee Ouzts – LHS – 2nd place
McKenzie Wolff – Hicks – 3rd place

Economics
Austin James – Rosepine – 1st place

Geography
Juliana Mills-Zacapa – LHS – 1st place
Daultyn Smith – Hicks – 2nd place
Zayda Goodwin – Hicks – 3rd place

History
Macy Mawae – LHS – 1st place
Brycen Dowden – LHS – 2nd place
Lexi Wolff – Hicks – 3rd place

Louisiana History
Brayden Doyle – Hicks – 2nd place
Julia Cummings LHS – 3rd place

Political Science
Gabriel McKee – Rosepine – 1st place
Julie Rheinhart – LHS – 2nd place
Allison Jeter – Hicks – 3rd place

Sociology
Emmalee Polk – LHS – 1st place
Hermione Current – LHS – 2nd place
Yejun (Joseph) Lee – LHS – 3rd place

Divison III Group

History
Ninoshka Leon Silva & Rebecca Cryer – LHS – 1st place
Jazalea Miller & Gabrielle Gunn – LHS – 2nd place
James Pelican & AJ Hewitt – Simpson – 3rd place

Louisiana History
Shyann McCummings & Kimberly Davis – LHS – 1st place

Sociology
Jaden Booker, Tawny Huff & Amaya Ratliff – LHS – 1st place

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Funeral services for Delton Levionne Hillman were held Monday, January 29th, at Pine Grove Baptist Church in Mora, Louisiana, with Brother John Lewing Jr. and Brother Terry Ward officiating, under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Pallbearers were Bobby Hillman, Michael Merriman, Dillon Hillman, Randall Hillman, David Hillman, Devin Miller, Jerry Lee Johnson, and David Stone. Honorary Pallbearers were Gerald Behan and Heath Williams.

Delton, known to all as Lavon, passed away in his home on January 25th, 2024. He was born to Delton and Viola Hillman on September 8, 1960. He was a lifelong resident of Vernon Parish. He resided in Hornbeck but lived most of his life in Hutton. He graduated from Simpson High School and held several career titles throughout his life. He worked in the oil field for some time. He later carried two badges for 11 years, serving as a Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Deputy and the Head Walk Sergeant at the Allen Correctional Center. After spending years of working on vehicles with his dad and others, he later began working at Alford Motors as a mechanic. He ended his time in the workforce after working for Gene Koury Automotive for 20 years. Upon retirement, he spent his days running the roads with his father-in-law or was in the woods somewhere, which was his favorite place to be.

Lavon loved the outdoors and wildlife. He enjoyed camping, whether it was at the deer lease or the lake. Hunting and fishing were his favorite pastimes. He wasn’t always able to make every event, but he absolutely adored his grandkids, nieces, and nephews, and loved catching a ballgame or supporting them in their endeavors when he could. No one was prouder of them all than he was.

Lavon loved people. He was a friend to all and would do anything he could to help. If you needed it, he had it! He loved bartering, swapping, trading, and buying anything and everything. He loved a good deal and often found the best ones. He also never met a stranger because he always had a story or a connection of some sort to everyone he met. With his blue, Santa Claus eyes and sweet dimpled smile, he’d strike up a friendship with anyone. Be careful though… those dimples usually meant he was fibbing about something! He loved gatherings and events. His favorite holidays were Easter and Christmas Eve when he was surrounded by people he loved. He loved cooking for a crowd, too. You couldn’t find a more loyal and kind friend than Lavon Hillman.

Lavon is preceded in death by his parents, Delton and Viola Hillman. He is survived by his wife, Angela Behan of Hornbeck; his siblings, Bobby (Annette) Hillman of Comrade and Shelia (Kenny) Goins of Hutton; his brother at heart, Gary Schoborg of Union, Iowa; his children, Jessica (Aaron) Wilson of Leesville, LaShanda (Brandon) Merriman of Simpson, Delton (Rachel) Hillman of Hutton, Heather (Tyler) Taylor of Hornbeck, Holly (Ronnie) Taylor of Pasadena, Texas, and Nick Behan of Natchitoches; his grandchildren, Rodney “Austin” Wilson, Anden Wilson, Travis (Josie) Hillman, Michael (Jill) Merriman, Danielle Merriman, Brandy Hillman, Hunter Hillman, Dean Hillman, Nicky Taylor, Sam Osborn, Denium Osborn, Tommy Floyd, Kylee Shanks, Heather Pennock, Angie Pennock, and Michael Matlock; and one great-granddaughter, Kacee Merriman, as well as a great-grandson on the way, Kolton, and one other great-grandchild on the way. He had a host of nieces and nephews that he loved like his own children. He also had so many, many friends that he regarded as family, as well.

The family would like to thank all the medical staff for their care and support with Lavon’s medical needs. He absolutely loved giving his nurses a hard time, and the good ones knew to give it right back to him. He truly appreciated and respected everyone helping him with his health and well-being.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests any monetary donations be made to Jeane’s Funeral Service to help with burial expenses.

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Publishers note: When I first came to Vernon Parish in the late 1970’s, little did I know how many state championships I would witness. I saw the Anacoco Lady Indians’ great run that crossed LHSAA classifications and did not miss a beat. The only one I did not see was the first one in 1967. Thanks to Mr. Billy Crawford for his research and dedication to the history of Vernon Parish.

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The 1967 Class B State Champions from Anacoco were coached by Venton R. Coburn. They went 39-4, including an unblemished district record of 12-0.

In the state semi-finals of the Sweet 16 in Alexandria, they beat Lawtell, 52-41. Many local fans wanted them to meet Hicks in the finals, but the Lady Pirates fell to Washington in Double/OT, 52-51. This year, area fans know a repeat of that scenario is possible.  Anacoco and Hicks may meet deep in the 2024 playoffs.

In the final game, it was a last-second jump shot that provided the margin of victory in a spine-tingling matchup. The teams went back and forth with twelve ties and a dozen lead changes. Tied at 41 with only six seconds to play, the game turned on a jump shot by Jackie Hawthorne that beat the defending champions, 43-41. Hawthorne finished with 10 points. The Lady Indians were led by Bonnie Marze with 17 and Deborah Parker with 16. The team defensive effort was described as intense.

There would be eight more championships for Anacoco’s girls’ basketball. The 1967 state champs set that bar high and the excellence continues.

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The LHSAA Girls State Basketball Championships are looming for several Vernon Parish teams. Playoffs begin in two weeks with the “Marsh Madness” tournament scheduled for the University Center at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, February 26-March 4. In the next 10 days, district rankings and power point rankings will determine seeding for the playoffs.

The Leesville Lady Wampus Cats picked up win #17 in a district victory over Washington-Marion, 44-31. The Lady Cats were 2-0 in district 3-4A heading into the game last night against Eunice. The score was unavailable at press time.

District 4-AA boasts the #1 ranked team statewide in Division III non-select schools. The Rosepine Lady Eagles are 23-5 overall and 6-0 in district play. Rosepine is “playing up” based on their size, which makes that number one ranking more impressive. They defeated Glenmora last game out, 69-43 for their 14th win in a row. Their district rivals, the Pickering Lady Red Devils, stand at 11-15 overall, 1-5 in district. Pickering lost their last game to Menard 51-34. They played at Rosepine last night. The score was unavailable at press time.

District 4-B has three Top Ten ranked teams going down the stretch. In Division V non-select schools, Anacoco is #2 with a 28-3 record, 4-0 in district. The Lady Indians beat Elizabeth 75-30 last game out but face two big tests this week. They hosted #5 Pitkin 21-12/1-2 last night. Score was unavailable at press time. Pitkin tuned up for the playoff run with a pair of non-district wins last week. The Lady Tigers humbled 4-A Cecelia 52-7 before bouncing Pleasant Hill 51-41. Anacoco collides with #3 ranked Hicks 27-3/3-1 Friday at Hicks for a real battle royal. The Lady Pirates lost their game last week at Oak Hill 61-59 and faced Elizabeth last night. The score was unavailable at press time.

Simpson out of District 3-C is currently ranked #7 in Division V non-select schools. The Lady Broncos are 24-8/3-1 after beating Pleasant Hill last week 82-63. They hosted Ebarb last night. Score unavailable at press time. Hornbeck is 18-11/2-1 after falling to Simpson last week 45-33. They visited Pleasant Hill last night. Score unavailable at press time. Evans remains a player in the 3-C race with a 3-1 district mark 15-18 overall, after beating Ebarb 41-27. The Lady Eagles host Simpson on Thursday and Hornbeck next week.

Faith Training Christian Academy had two games postponed that may need to be made up before their playoff seeding can be determined. The Lady Patriots compete in the Association of Christian Educators of Louisiana (ACEL). The ACEL state tournament will be February 9-10 at Louisiana Christian University in Pineville.

Vernon Parish boys’ teams are angling for playoff seeding at the end of the regular season. The LHSAA “Marsh Madness” boys’ state tournament will be held March 4-9 at Burton Coliseum in Lake Charles.
The Leesville Wampus Cats lost their district 3-4A opener at DeRidder last week 48-34. The 12-11 Cats played at Eunice last night. Score unavailable at press time.

The Pickering Red Devils are currently ranked #2 in Division IV non-select schools with a 17-8/4-1 record. Pickering destroyed Menard last game out, 76-39. They visited district rival Rosepine last night. Score unavailable at press time. Rosepine is 13-11/3-2 with a recent 73-52 win over Glenmora.

Anacoco and Hicks continue to be ranked near the top of Division V non-select schools. Anacoco (#4) is 28-7/4-0 after beating Elizabeth last week, 35-20. They faced Pitkin in a big matchup last night. Score unavailable at press time. The Hicks Pirates (#6) are 20-9/4-0 and have won 8 in a row. Last week they outplayed Oak Hill 81-47. They hosted Elizabeth last night. Score unavailable at press time. Pitkin is 18-14/1-2 after losing to Pleasant Hill 69-53. The Tigers bounced back with a 75-35 win over Oak Hill Monday night and played at Anacoco last night in a district 4-B showdown. Score unavailable at press time.

District 3-C continues to be a dog fight. Hornbeck’s 11-16/2-1 mark puts them in the thick of it. The Hornets beat Simpson last game out, 56-52. Hornbeck hosted Pleasant Hill last night. Score unavailable at press-time. Simpson, 10-14/0-4 lost to Pleasant Hill last week, 52-43. The Broncos played at Ebarb last night. Score unavailable at press time. Evans has dropped four in a row including last week’s 81-47 loss to Ebarb. They play Simpson this Thursday.

The Faith Training Christian Academy Patriots from the ACEL are 11-2 and will get a high seed in the playoffs. Their state tournament is February 9-10 at Louisiana Christian University in Pineville.

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There’s nothing quite like live music, from the light sounds of a string concerto to a bellowing brass band.

SouthWest Jazz invites all music lovers out Friday, February 2, at 7:00 p.m. in the Wooten Theater in downtown DeRidder. This is the group’s first show of the year, open to the public, and free. SouthWest Jazz is composed of music and band directors from across six parishes in Southwest and West Central Louisiana. In addition to teaching, they most love to play. The group plays multiple shows across the area yearly.

The show February 2 will include swing music tunes from the 40s and 50s. SouthWest Jazz features a four-piece rhythm section and usually 12-15 various horn players. The concert is free and open to the public.

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Alice Mae Self Singletary, 88 of Leesville, Louisiana, passed away at her home on Thursday, January 25, 2024. Alice was born on January 16, 1936. She owned Alice’s Fantasy Formal and Bridal Shop and was a business owner in Leesville for 47 years. She enjoyed making every bride’s dream come true. She was beloved by many friends and family. Our Mom will be dearly missed.

She is survived by her daughters, Lisa Piper of Spanish Fort, Alabama; Sharon Bannister of Jefferson, Georgia; Toni Lavergne of Leesville; sisters, Wanda Adair of DeRidder, Louisiana, Sandra Pfaff of Yelm, Washington; brothers, Clifford Self and Charles Self; grandchildren: Chris Miller (wife Gwen); Karen Lipscomb (husband Chris); Taneia Beach: Harrison Bannister; Austin Bannister (wife, Alexa); and great grandchildren: Mariah Beach, Grayson Beach and Anderson Bannister.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Alma Self; her husband, Emerson R. Singletary, Sr.; and son, Emerson R. “Buzz” Singletary, Jr.

Visitation will begin on Thursday, February 1, 2024, from 5:00 P.M – 8:00 P.M at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024, at 10:00 A.M at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville with Rev. Mark Christian officiating. Burial will be held at Castor Cemetery in Leesville.

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February is full of fun and legendary celebrations in Vernon Parish, Louisiana’s Legend Country!

Kick off the celebrations with a Mardi Gras Ball presented by the Leesville Knights of Columbus. Get tickets now for St. Michael’s Mardi Gras Ball to be held Saturday, February 3rd, at the St. Michael’s Hall. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for cocktail hour and will close at 7:30 p.m. for the presentation of the court. Tickets are $70 each, with a great DJ on tap and Deep South Catering providing the included meal and non-alcoholic beverages. A cash bar will be open for the duration of the event, except during court presentation. For tickets, contact the office at St. Michael’s.

You can also attend VFW Mardi Gras Ball at the VFW 3106 on Saturday, February 10th, at 7 pm.
 Tickets are $50.00 and available at the VFW canteen (free drink with every ticket)
. Please stop by the VFW 3106 to purchase your tickets. 

The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce will sponsor their 2024 Mardi Gras parade through historic downtown Leesville.  The parade will roll at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 10.  Local groups are encouraged to enter a float.  To register, go to the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce website, click events, go to the calendar, and register online.  The 2023 parade was cancelled due to inclement weather.

After your Mardi Gras celebrations, don’t miss out on celebrating Valentine’s Day with your loved one! Vernon Parish has beautiful places to stay, eat and shop. For shopping, check out Leesville Main Street with its varied local boutiques. For dinner plans, you can attend Hazel’s Tea Parlor’s Valentine’s Day Dinner. This is a prepay, preorder event with limited seating available. Make plans soon to ensure a romantic evening with that special someone. The deadline for reservations is February 10th. For a list of places to stay, things to do, and dining options, visit: https://vernonparish.org. 

Or explore the great outdoors with your Valentine! Vernon Parish has legendary outdoor activities like fishing, birding, golf and trails/parks! Visit: https://vernonparish.org/outdoors.

Tag us on social media at #LALegendCountry and share your February fun adventures in Vernon Parish!

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The Annual NSU Sax Fest will be held at Northwestern State University on Saturday, February 3 starting at 1 p.m. in Magale Recital Hall.

Guest artist Adam Larson will perform with the NSU Jazz Orchestra and NSU Jazz Combo in Magale Recital Hall at 1 p.m. Larson will hold master classes from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. At 7 p.m., Larson will play with the Forsyth Jazz Collective at Flying Heart Brewing & Pub at 108 Mill St. in Natchitoches. The public is invited to attend both concerts. Admission is free.

Larson is an American saxophonist, composer and author. He began playing saxophone at the age of 11. Described by critic Howard Reich of The Chicago-Tribune as “a player for whom the word ‘prodigious’ was coined,” by Peter Hum of the Ottawa Citizen as “a saxophonist who brings Donny McCaslin and Mark Turner to mind,” and by Nate Chinen of The New York Times as “the sort of jazz musician who gets flagged early on as a promising talent and then hustles to meet every requirement for success,” Larson has garnered numerous awards that distinguish him as one of the most promising artists of his generation. Upon graduating from high school in 2008, Adam moved to New York City to pursue his BM and MM in jazz performance on full scholarship from The Manhattan School of Music, finishing his studies in 2014.

Larson keeps an active schedule with his own groups and as a sideman and has released eight albums.

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Funeral Services for Allan “Ricky” or “Griff” Griffin, Jr. will be held Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. in the Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder officiated by Tim Lee. Interment will follow in the John C. White Cemetery in Providence.

Ricky was born on March 16, 1950. He passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2024, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, surrounded by his family.

He was a resident of Rosepine for most of his life, where he met and married the love of his life, Anita. They were married on January 5, 1976, and spent the next 48 years together. She was one of the greatest joys of his life.

Ricky was preceded in death by his mother, Bobbie Griffin, and father, Albert Roy Griffin.

Ricky loved life and being outdoors. He was an avid gardener and passed those traits on to his children. He loved plants and flowers, especially rose bushes. You would often find him pruning and trimming and doing yard work. His favorite past time was the massive garden he planted each year. He always grew enough to feed everyone. He had a green thumb that we never understood. He could grow anything and nurture anything back to life. He had a giving, caring and selfless spirit. He never met a stranger. His presence will most definitely be missed.

He spent years learning and perfecting his skills of dirt work and building roadways. He loved operating heavy equipment. Everyone who knew Ricky knew that about him. That brought such joy to his life. He was a heavy equipment operator for Allco Construction for the last 17 years. He loved his job and all the friends he created while there, especially Keith Fontenot. Mr. Keith was the brother dad never had. They were inseparable.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 48 years: Anita Griffin of Rosepine; daughters: Julie Weldon and husband Steven; Becky Tavares and husband Steven; son, Christopher Griffin; 16 grandkids and five great grandkids.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Christopher Griffin, Hunter Franklin, Jerry Weldon, Chandler Griffin, Colton Griffin, Carter Griffin and Jaron Phillips.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital/Cornerstone Hospital for the exceptional care he received while there.

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ALLAN “RICKY” “GRIFF” GRIFFIN, JR.
March 16, 1950 – January 27, 2024
Service: January 31, 2024, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder, Louisiana, at 2 p.m.

ALICE MAE SINGLETARY
January 16, 1936 – January 25, 2024
Service: February 2, 2024, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville at 10 a.m.

JOHNNIE CARROLL KNOX, SR.
November 26, 1948 – January 27, 2024
Service: February 2, 2024, at Turning Point Apostolic Church in DeRidder, Louisiana, at 12 p.m.

PEGGY JO BULLOCK SMITH
August 29, 1934 – January 28, 2024
Service: February 5, 2024, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville at 11 a.m.

LAVON HILLMAN
September 8, 1960 – January 25, 2024
Service: January 29, 2024, at Pine Grove Baptist Church in Mora, Louisiana, at 2 p.m.

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In July of 2023, Investigators assigned to the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division were contacted by an online gambling company regarding sports wagers made by a prohibited person.

Investigators learned that former Louisiana State University (LSU) football player, 21-year-old Kayshon Boutte of Baton Rouge, participated in sports gambling from April 6, 2022, until May 7, 2023, when he was 20 years old. During this period, Boutte used an alias to circumvent the legal age required for placing sports wagers in Louisiana. Between April 6, 2022, and May 7, 2023, the alias account believed to be used by Boutte placed over 8,900 wagers. Of the 8,900 wagers, at least seventeen were on National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) football games, with at least six of those wagers on LSU football.

On January 18, 2024, an arrest warrant was signed through the 19th Judicial District Court, charging Boutte with L.R.S. 14:73.5 – Computer Fraud (Felony – One Count) and L.R.S. 27:260 – Gaming Prohibited for Persons Under 21 (Misdemeanor – One Count). On January 25, 2024, Boutte was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish jail on the aforementioned charges. This investigation is still ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.

The Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division, in conjunction with the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, will continue to work to ensure the integrity of gaming activities in Louisiana. Anyone wishing to report illegal gaming activity is encouraged to contact the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division. Contact information may be found online at https://www.lsp.org/gaming-enforcement-division/.

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Tony Allen Fee, age 51, of Pitkin was arrested on three outstanding traffic warrants. Bond has not been set. Fee remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

James Wesley Ford, age 46, of Leesville was arrested and charged with one count Identity Theft and one count Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic. Bond has not been set and Ford remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Krystle Leann Roberts, age 39, of Rosepine was arrested and charged with one count Aggravated Battery and one count Battery of a Dating Partner/Child Endangerment. Bond has not been and Roberts remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Leonard L. Phillips II, age 50, of Anacoco was arrested and charged with one count Theft over $750. Bond has not been set and Phillips remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

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The Leesville City Council held its regular meeting Monday, January 22, at the Leesville City Hall.

The agenda included regular business. Monthly bills totaling just over $13,000.00 were presented for payment. The City paid three invoices from state general funds involving renovation of the newly christened Leesville Events Center. Two of the three invoices were from S. Keel Leesville Flooring, totaling $26,885.00. The other invoice from Custom Metal Siding was for $8,400.00.

Ordinance Number 1 of 2024 was introduced. This would rezone a parcel of property from C4 Highway Commercial District to C2 Commercial District Apartment to allow for a tire sales and service shop. A public hearing is set for February 12. Public comments are welcome.

A resolution was offered and passed by the Council to authorize the City of Leesville to accept the grant funding from the U.S. Department of Defense, Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (DOD/OLDCC) for the municipal airport project.  The resolution also authorizes the City to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the State of Louisiana Department of Economic Development.  Further, the Mayor of the City of Leesville is authorized to sign and execute all documents in connection with this project authorization.

The highlight of the meeting was Mayor Rick Allen’s swearing in of the new members of the Leesville Mayor’s Youth Council. Those students included Ja’Kira Acevedo, Izaiah Farley, Sasha Gatson, McKenzie Harris, Jocelyn Hood, Hailee Jeane, Joshua Johnson, Sachi Patel, Aliyah Smith, Charleigh Travis, and Allie Wittenhagen. The Mayor also announced that the Youth Council would have an office in the Leesville Event Center and encouraged them to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Mayor Allen surprised the members of the Mayor’s Women’s Commission with an announcement that they, too, would receive an office in the new Event Center.

The City of Leesville has agreed to a partnership with the non-profit Kingdom Center to use their expertise and finances in a community center, similar to the Kingdom Center on High School Drive in DeRidder that has been open for almost two years.

The next meeting of the Leesville City Council is scheduled for Monday, February 12 at Leesville City Hall.

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There’s nothing quite like live music, from the light sounds of a string concerto to a bellowing brass band.

SouthWest Jazz invites all music lovers out Friday, February 2, at 7:00 p.m. in the Wooten Theater in downtown DeRidder. This is the group’s first show of the year, open to the public, and free. SouthWest Jazz is composed of music and band directors from across six parishes in Southwest and West Central Louisiana. In addition to teaching, they most love to play. The group plays multiple shows across the area yearly.

The show February 2 will include swing music tunes from the 40s and 50s. SouthWest Jazz features a four-piece rhythm section and usually 12-15 various horn players. The concert is free and open to the public.

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Leesville Dixie Youth 

Online registration is currently underway for Leesville Dixie Youth 2024 spring season. This is for boys and girls ages 4-15 and consists of Wee ball, T-ball, baseball, and softball. Registration is $75 per player and will continue online through February 15. Just go to www.leaguelineup.com/leesvilledixieyouth . Click on the forms online to find the player registration form.

Ft. Johnson CYS Sports

Child Youth Services at Ft. Johnson is currently registering youth for the Wee ball, T-ball, baseball, and softball seasons that will play April 6-June 1.  Registration continues through February 23.  CYS registration is required to participate, and children must have a current sports physical.  For information call 337-531-6004.  

The cost for Wee ball (ages 3-4) is $25.  All the other leagues (ages 5-15) are $50.

Coaches are also needed.

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After the snow and ice came the rains, but no games were washed out on Tuesday. Here are the results of girls’ and boys’ action:

Anacoco(G) won at Oak Hill 71-63. They visit Elizabeth tonight in a District 4-B game.
Anacoco(B) won at Oak Hill 65-36. They visit Elizabeth tonight in a district game.

Evans(G) beat Pleasant Hill 53-40. They visit Ebarb tonight in a District 3-C game.
Evans(B) lost to Pleasant Hill 65-44. They play at Ebarb tonight.

Hicks(G) They play at Oak Hill tonight.
Hicks(B) They play at Oak Hill tonight.

Hornbeck(G) lost to Simpson 45-33. They next play at Pleasant Hill Tuesday January 30.
Hornbeck(B) beat Simpson 56-52. Play next Tuesday at Pleasant Hill.

Leesville(G) won District 3-4A opener at DeRidder 59-35. Play at Washington-Marion tonight.
Leesville(B) They play at DeRidder tonight in the District 3-4A opener for both teams.

Pickering(G) won at Avoyelles 31-26 in District 4-AA. They host Menard tonight.
Pickering(B) lost at Avoyelles 57-55.  Red Devils host Menard tonight.

Pitkin(G) beat Elizabeth 69-43. They hosted 4A Cecilia last night; score unavailable at press time.
Lady Tigers host Pleasant Hill tonight.
Pitkin(B) beat Elizabeth 59-39. Played 4A Cecilia last night/score unavailable.
The Tigers host Pleasant Hill tonight.

Rosepine(G) won at Oakdale 75-71. They host Glenmora tonight in District 4-AA game.
Rosepine(B) lost at Oakdale 83-65. They play Glenmora tonight in a district game.

Simpson(G) beat Hornbeck 45-33.  They hosted Pleasant Hill Thursday; score unavailable at press time.
Simpson(B) lost to Hornbeck 56-52. They played Pleasant Hill last night; score unavailable at press time.

Faith Training Christian Academy(G) had a game with Mt. Olive Christian School in Shreveport cancelled Tuesday night. They attempted to make it up Thursday; score unavailable at press time. They finish the season tonight in Baton Rouge against Brighton Academy. The Lady Patriots are 4-5 on the year. They play in the Southwest District of the ACEL. Their state tournament is set for February 9-10 at Louisiana Christian University in Pineville.

Faith Training Christian Academy(B) The Patriots are 11-2 in the Southwest District of the ACEL. They defeated Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School this week 50-41. They will await their seeding for the playoff tournament and play the state championships at LCU in Pineville February 9-10

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The Leesville Mayor’s Women’s Commission recently presented their January 2024 Civic Awards for
Beautification to two Leesville citizens.

The residential winners were Amy and Oliver Medina at 107 Verone Street. A large pin oak tree
takes center stage near the driveway while manicured hedges surround Sago palms at each corner of
the home. In its season, a beautiful long-stemmed rose bush growing at one corner provides large, fragrant roses that delight the senses. 

The commercial winner was Bealls located at 1778 South 5th Street in the Town Plaza Shopping Center. The storefront is well-maintained with easily accessible litter containers to encourage keeping our city clean, an effort which is vital to our beautification efforts.

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Over 550 Northwestern State University students were named to the Presidents List for the Fall 2023 semester. To earn a place on the Honors List, a student’s GPA must fall between 3.0-3.49. The Deans List requires a GPA between 3.5-3.99. To make the Presidents List, the GPA must be 4.0. The following Vernon Parish students qualified for the Presidents List:

ANACOCO – Lindsey Alligood, Mallory Cooley, Miranda Dougherty, Landon Jett and Sarah Stokes

FT. JOHNSON – Korye Birdson, Angelisa Dobbins-Taylor, Kaylee Hugg, Candace Sizemore, and Emily Turley

HORNBECK – Sarah McDonald, Adam Rhodes, Peighton Rhodes and Kristen Townsend

LEESVILLE – James Bell, Brianna Billiot, Paige Boyd, Hannah Dowden, Tanya Edds, Eric Lopez, Ethan Nash, Laila Salas, Rebecca Smith, Lyndsie Snider, Samantha Warstler, Allison Weatherford, Avari Cain and Reagan Ducote

NEW LLANO – Jace Bullock, Gabrielle McLaughlin

PITKIN – Grant Goleman

Congratulations to all students for their academic achievements.

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Funeral services for Jackson Louis Hines, 73, of Leesville, will be held at Unity Baptist Church in DeRidder, Louisiana, on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at 3:00 in the afternoon with Brother Mike Burkes officiating.

Jack was born on July 21, 1950, in DeRidder, Louisiana, to his parents, Troy J. Hines and Marie Perkins Hines. He passed away on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Jack was a proud veteran of the United States Army and served his country during the Vietnam War. Jack was a proud member of the 2nd Armored Division “Hell On Wheels.” After his tours in Vietnam, Jack was honorably discharged. Following his military service, Jack worked and retired after 38 years from his civil service job at Fort Polk, Louisiana.

Jack loved being outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, a trait he shared and passed on to his children and grandchildren. On a good day, you could find him fishing and running yo-yos from his camp on Anacoco Lake. More than anything else Jack was all about his children and his grandchildren. He loved to go on vacations to the mountains with his family. Jack always said there was nothing better than sitting out on the porch with a hot cup of coffee talking to his family and friends. Jack was one of the most kind and generous people in this world. His presence is definitely missed.

He is preceded in death by his parents: Troy and Marie Hines.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, Troy Hines and wife Katie of Leesville; daughter, Candice Sexton and husband Joseph of Leesville; stepson, Anthony Bodak of Troy, Illinois; brother, Frank Hines and wife Kim of Leesville; grand- children: Hunter Hines and wife Kaydence of Leesville, Jayce Hines of Leesville, Jackson Hines of Leesville, Charolette Hewitt of Jasper, Texas, Jeffrey Billeaud III of Leesville, Angelica Sexton of Many, Louisiana, Joseph Sexton of Kinder, Louisiana; great-grandchildren: Dixie Hewitt of Leesville, Kyle Hewitt of Shreveport, Louisiana, and Brooks Hines of Leesville; and a great multitude of nieces, nephews and other family.

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