Funeral services for Paul Lynn Johnson “PJ”, 69, of Evans, will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the Evans Congregational Methodist Church with Rev. Dale Varnado and Rev. David Richmond officiating. Burial will follow in the Evans Cemetery in Evans.

Visitation will begin on Monday, May 13, 2024, from 4:00 P.M until the time of the service on Tuesday at the church. Services are under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder.

Paul Lynn Johnson was born on July 10, 1954 to Tommie G. and William Grady Johnson. He entered eternal rest at his home in Evans, Louisiana on May 10, 2024.

PJ loved his family so very much! Donna was the love of his life. He worked hard to provide for his family. He traveled to work in paper mills most of his life and then ended his career working at WD Chips. PJ enjoyed going to the lake and camping. He almost never missed a game or event that his grandchildren were involved in. He loved cheering them on. In recent years, PJ enjoyed sitting on the front porch and watching the birds in the yard and cars driving by on the road. He was always ready to go on trips and loved to talk on the phone.

PJ was preceded in death by his grandson, Leon Grant Colton Jeane, parents, and his brother, William Glenn Johnson.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Johnson and his children Dustin Johnson and Amanda Jeane and husband Melvin. Grandchildren Grason and Sadie Jeane. One brother Cliff Johnson and a host of nieces and nephews.

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Funeral services honoring the life of Wanda Louise Jordan will be held on Monday, May 13, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Oak Grove Congregational Methodist Church in Burr Ferry, with Rev. Brent Nobel and Derik Jarrell officiating. Burial will follow in Plunkaway Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Serving as pallbearers will be Don Brack, Delbert Westbrook, Clayton Meaux, Caden Rivers, Roger Jordan, and John Jordan. Honorary pallbearers will be Kira Young, Marvin Smith, and Chad Perkins.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 12, 2024, from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at Oak Grove Congregational Methodist Church and again on Monday from 10:00 AM until time of service.

Wanda Louise Jordan was born on September 21, 1938, in Burr Ferry, LA to Grady and Viola Kennedy. She passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024, at her home in Wiergate, TX at the age of 85. Wanda was a member of Oak Grove Congregational Methodist Church and served as secretary for over 40 years. She dedicated many years of her life in the education system and served as principal for 13 years at Oak Grove Christian Academy. Wanda enjoyed being outdoors, fishing, and hunting. She had a green thumb and loved flowers. Her family brought her great joy, especially her kids and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sons, Gary Jarrell, Marty Jarrell, and Richie Jarrell, brothers, Arnold and Charles Kennedy, and sister, Donice Shaw.

She is survived by her husband of 36 years, John Wain Jordan of Wiergate, TX; daughters, Lisa Verret “Louis” of Baytown, TX and Teresa Jarrell “Chad Perkins” of Burr Ferry; sisters, Abbie Mitcham of Burr Ferry and Charlene Jeane of Evans; grandchildren, Heather Havener, Melissa Meaux, Clay Meaux, Holly Cameron, and Brady Smith; great grandchildren, Caden Rivers, Isabella Havener, Madden Cameron, Henry Havener, and Callen Cameron, and a host of extended family and friends.

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PAUL LYNN JOHNSON
July 10, 1954 – May 10, 2024
Service: May 14, 2024, at Evans Congregational Methodist Church in Evans, Louisiana, at 10:00 a.m.

WANDA LOUISE JORDAN
September 21, 1938 – May 10, 2024
Service: May 13, 2024, at Oak Grove Congregational Methodist Church in Evans, Louisiana, at 11:00 a.m.

RICHARD EARL SNELL
March 10, 1941 – May 10, 2024
Service: May 14, 2024, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Hornbeck, Louisiana, at 10:00 a.m.

THERISA BERNELL JOHNSON WEST
October 12, 1929 – May 11, 2024
Service: May 14, 2024, at Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Pitkin, Louisiana, at 11:00 a.m.

ROLAND RAY TERRELL
May 13, 2034 – May 12, 2024
Service: May 15, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Leesville, at 2:00 p.m.

STEVEN HOWARD HALL
August 5, 1947 – May 11, 2024
Service: May 15, 2024, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville, at 12:00 p.m.

DORA PENA DESIDERE
June 3, 1953 – May 14, 2024
Service: May 15, 2024, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville, at 4:00 p.m.

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Vernon Parish District Attorney Terry Lambright reports the recent guilty plea of Vernon Parish resident, Steven Eugene Baker, 43, of Anacoco. Baker was arrested by the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office for aggravated crimes against nature. If convicted, Baker faces a maximum penalty of 20 years with the Louisiana Department of Corrections.

On May 7, 2024, Baker appeared with his attorney before the Honorable Judge Scott Westerchil and entered a plea of guilty to the crime of aggravated crimes against nature. As a part of the plea, Baker agreed to serve 15 years with the Louisiana Department of Corrections, life-long registration as a sex offender, life-long electronic monitoring, and chemical castration. “I am very pleased with the plea obtained in this case. This defendant has no prior criminal history, but any individual committing offenses of this nature will be prosecuted as the facts warrant. I will continue to work very hard to ensure the safety of Vernon Parish residents,” said Lambright. This case was prosecuted by Vernon Parish Assistant District Attorney Wayne Bush.

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Vernon Parish District Attorney Terry Lambright also reports the recent sentencing of Shedrick Metoyer, 30 years of age of Alexandria Louisiana. Metoyer was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by the Louisiana State Police in March 2021, while traveling through Vernon Parish. During the traffic stop a large quantity of cocaine and methamphetamine was discovered, which resulted in the arrest of Mr. Metoyer and the driver of the vehicle.

In January 2024, Mr. Metoyer was found guilty by a jury of possession of cocaine and methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. These felony convictions were Mr. Metoyer’s fifth felony convictions.

In April 2024, a special hearing was held before the Honorable Judge C. Anthony Eaves, at which time evidence was presented and Mr. Metoyer was deemed a habitual offender under Louisiana law. On May 8, 2024, Mr. Metoyer appeared before Judge Eaves for sentencing and was sentenced to serve 65 years with the Louisiana Department of Corrections. This case was prosecuted by Vernon Parish Assistant District Attorney Heath Dillon.

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The Hicks Pirates will go for their 16^th state title today on Field #40 at McMurry Park in Sulphur, Louisiana.  First pitch for the Division V Non-Select title game against Quitman High is 11 a.m.

#3 Hicks and #5 Quitman deserve each other.  Quitman beat #1 and defending state champ Pitkin in the semifinals 1-0.  Hicks lost both games in district 4-B play to Pitkin this season.  Hicks topped #2 Weston in the semifinals 5-1.  Weston bested Quitman twice in district 1-B this season.

Hicks got a BYE in the first round of the playoffs then defeated #14 Converse, 8-0, #6 Elizabeth, 5-2 and #2 Weston, 5-1.  The Pirates won 7 of the last 10 regular season games to finish the season 16-8.  They have won 8 in a row, counting playoffs.

Pirates coach, Gary Williams, took senior pitcher Hayden Doyle out after 7 and 2/3 innings against Weston.  He kept a close eye on the pitch count and will have Doyle for limited use.  He has several young arms to go to if Doyle cannot go deep into the game.  The Pirates play six sophomores a lot, and they have gained great experience this season.

Quitman is a senior-laden team (6) with only two juniors and three sophomores who have seen extensive playing time for the Wolverines.  Coach Joe Lockhart’s squad was 15-10 in the regular season and defeated #12 Doyline,4-3, #4 Stanley, 8-1, and #1 Pitkin, 1-0 on the way to the title game.  Quitman is 3-2 in their last five games.  Lockhart said, “I love the aggressiveness of Hicks; they hit the ball and get on base.  You had better play good defense against them.”  Lockhart told the VPJ he really had not decided on a starting pitcher for the game.

The Division V Non-Select state title game time is 11 a.m. today.  The game can be heard locally on 105.7/KVVP-FM and 93.5/KJAE-FM.

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The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office has been made aware of a scam circulating throughout the Parish.
Persons who are required to register with VPSO are being contacted by telephone and the caller is identifying themselves as Detectives with VPSO.

The caller then advises that the registrant is not in compliance with their registration requirements. The caller then advises that the registrant must pay a fine via the phone to avoid a warrant being issued for their arrest.

The caller has identified themselves as Detective Graham, Detective Williamson, Lt. Bonnett, and Detective O’Neil.

The calls are made from various telephone numbers.

Anyone who must register with VPSO or who is contacted by these individuals may confirm their registration status by contacting VPSO at 337-238-1311.

DO NOT give out any personal identifying information, credit card information, OR gift card information.
Any funds provided to these scammers cannot be recovered.

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The state high school baseball tournament will conclude this week in Sulphur.  Thousands will attend to cheer on their Pirates, Wolverines, Golden Knights, or Bucs.  Popcorn, nachos, hot dogs, and sodas will be consumed in copious amounts.  Tears of joy and sorrow will be seen.  Parents will burst at the seams with pride.

Baseball is the great American game with its roots in pre-Civil War days.  Baseball clubs were formed at fire stations, police stations, and local businesses.  Boy! These days it’s hard to recognize the game at the major league level!  Baseball is way too expensive for a family of four on a regular basis.  The salaries of players are off the charts. Playing indoors is just not the same as sitting in the sunshine!  Sorry; not here to pick at the demise of MLB but to celebrate a game that all little kids learn to play.  Here is a stick to hit the ball and a glove to catch said hit ball.  You gotta learn the rest.  Dads and sons bonded through baseball, beginning with a game of catch in the backyard.  Baseball can take you around the world.

The world has caught up with American baseball.  Japan and Korea love it!  Central American countries see baseball as a way out of poverty.  Look at the rosters of MLB to see players from Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, Puerto Rico, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, and others.  Baseball is everywhere!  It has been an Olympic sport for years.  What will you watch during the Olympics this summer: baseball or break dancing?

Baseball was my best sport growing up.  I threw pretty hard and could hit a little.  I started playing the game in Maine and Michigan (USAF Brat).  My best years were in junior high school.  I actually went to a Cincinnati Reds tryout camp and was chosen as the starting pitcher in the 12–14-year-old camp all-star game.  I moved to Louisiana, a veritable hotbed of Dixie Youth Ball, and promptly threw my arm out!  I did not make the high school team at Bossier High School because the team was really good — so was the coach.  The late Tommy Henry, Commissioner of the LHSAA for decades, was the coach.  I did not play for Coach Henry, but we stayed friends through athletics for years.

My pop played semi-pro ball in Pennsylvania before the Air Force beckoned.  He was not a patient coach with the three Barnickel boys.  Middle brother, Michael, tried his hand to no avail.  Younger brother, Bob, found his niche on the basketball court. I mean, he was 6’7” tall!  We went to our first big league game as a family to the Eighth Wonder of the World, the Astrodome.  Talk about a thrill!

Can’t play the game anymore, but  I have called my fair share of games on the radio.  I love it live but will pass on TV.  I still root for the same MLB team as I always have and love ballpark food.  I have watched games at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Fenway Park in Boston, and the old Bringhurst Park in Alexandria, among other and newer stadiums. I can watch Field of Dreams, The Natural, or League of Their Own any day you like.  Yes, I like the game of baseball, just like millions of Americans.  Come on, let me hear you say it!  PLAY BALL!  Those baseball days are here!

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In considering the safety of all students and their families, and due to the possibility of inclement weather, the Leesville High School graduation ceremony has been rescheduled for Friday, May 10, 2024, at 7 p.m. 

At this time, the ceremony will be held in the Leesville High School football stadium.

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Louisiana’s two major military installations – Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier Parish and Fort Johnson in Vernon Parish – not only are vital defense facilities for the state and nation but also are major revenue producers for the state.

At a Tuesday hearing of the Senate Select Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, Barksdale Commander Colonel Michael “Fetch” Maginness, and Ft. Johnson Garrison Commander Colonel Clifton “CJ” Lopez, said their facilities bring a total of more than $3 billion in federal funding to the state in the form of salaries and funding for projects often constructed by local contractors.

Col. Maginness said Barksdale is undergoing major developments to improve aging runways, update on-base facilities, and to prepare for 400 new airmen to man a new division to operate the Long Range Stand Off Missile that will be based at Barksdale.

The new technology is crucial, he said, because of “rapid advancements in technology, especially on the part of the Chinese… Quite frankly, we can no longer think of homeland as a sanctuary.” Strategic deterrence is a major factor in today’s warfare, so B52s are fitted for long-range missions. “In 18 hours, I can hold any target hostage, anywhere in the world, from Northwest Louisiana. I don’t need to deploy.”

Constant care of the B-52 bombers at Barksdale is necessary, the colonel told committee members, because the newest one was built in 1961. As commander the 2^nd Bomb Wing, he believes it is “the greatest airplane ever built.”

The population of the 27,000-acre Barksdale AFB is about 14,500 and “the military is a family business,” so it has to have facilities for entire families.

Col. Lopez said soldiers have been training for war at Fort Johnson (formerly Fort Polk) and the Joint Readiness Training Center since 1940, when they prepared for World War II. More than a million combat troops trained for Vietnam there, so “training is in our DNA.”

Fort Johnson’s total base population is 32,628, including 7,949 active duty Army and Reserve, 222 Air Force, 12,447 military family members, 6,147 civilian employees, 5,770 transient and rotational personnel, and a 93-member Reserve component.

Families rely on Vernon Parish schools and Fort Johnson has “one of the largest child care facilities in the United States,” Col. Lopez said. The fort’s $1.79 billion impact on the state put it in the top 12 of Louisiana’s largest businesses.

The two military locations have “a huge financial impact on the state of Louisiana,” said committee member Sen. Mike Reese, R-Leesville. He said Fort Johnson’s 250,000 acres are “50 percent of the land mass of Vernon Parish, so we’re challenged to provide the kind of support we need to supply without the ad valorem tax generated in other communities.”

“Our military partners bravely serve all of us, and we look forward to seeing improvements and upgrades that will continue to keep our state safe. Today’s presentations from our military leaders demonstrate what a tremendous impact their work has in our communities,” said Committee Chair Sen. Adam Bass. “Barksdale’s economic footprint in my district alone totals $980 million and the base commander says he’d like to see it as high as $1 billion. That’s impressive.” 

Charlton Meginley, secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, told the committee that his office focuses on “the economics of veterans,” and although it has historically sought to serve older veterans, he wants to share that focus on the education and employment needs of younger veterans.

“Louisiana is the most veteran-friendly state in the United States,” with property tax and other breaks given to veterans, he said.

The state has five veterans’ homes and five veterans’ cemeteries. Each parish has a veterans service office staffed by veterans trained to assist with applicants’ needs.

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ALERT!!!! VIP tickets are nearly sold out! Get yours today! If you wait, it may be too late.
Spectacular weather forecast! The official forecast for Friday and Saturday is absolutely
perfect!
FRIDAY NIGHT KICKOFF  * REQUIRES A SEPARATE TICKET
​7:00 – 8:30    Lone Star Skynyrd (Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Band) The crowd is sure to
sing along, dance, and sway to a celebration of the original Skynyrd rock ‘n’ roll
legacy. Winners of the prestigious 2022 Josie Award for Best Tribute Band in
America: Lone Star Skynyrd. More than a tribute! More than a good time party!
​9:00 – 10:30   Rumours ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute  Fans from across the nation
claim that Rumours is the band to see if you are looking for an authentic recreation of
live Fleetwood Mac shows. In just under 10 years, Rumours has landed itself the
reputation of being the best Fleetwood Mac Tribute band and additionally has made
fans internationally.
SATURDAY 
​1:00 – 1:50     Mason Trail and Zydeco Rhythm (High-energy Zydeco) Out of Lake
Charles, they’ll have the crowd dancing early with an eclectic repertoire of modern
zydeco along with traditional authentic zydeco music with an R&B flavor.  
 2:20 – 3:25     On Point Band (Rhythm & Blues) The On Point Band out of
Natchitoches will be performing an exciting high-energy, brand of soul and R&B,
classics, as well as modern hits, with a little jazz thrown in. Don’t miss this young and
entertaining upcoming group!
​3:40 – 5:00    The Young Ones (Jazz & R&B with a Latin flavor)  NSU music
students who all hail from South and Central American countries. These super-
talented musicians will be performing a unique mixture of rock and roll, jazz, and
rhythm and blues, all with a Latin flavor in their tribute to the music of Michael
Jackson, The Beatles, and Bruno Mars. 
​5:20 – 6:45     Johnny Earthquake & The Moondogs (High-energy variety show
band)  The popular Natchitoches-based nine-piece, rhythm and blues, and rock ‘n’ roll
band which critics have called: “quite simply, Louisiana‘s best Showband”, will be
making this stop on their 30th anniversary “Over the Moon Tour” a special one as
after their performance they’ll be inducted into The Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. 
Don’t forget about our headliners; America’s got talent Finalists “Chapel Hart” at
7:15pm and Country hitmaker, Craig Morgan at 9:00pm.

For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit https://www.natchjazzfest.com

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Aubrey Jerald Lockhart, 84, of Leesville, passed away peacefully at his residence on May 4, 2024.

A celebration of life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2024, at Providence Baptist Church at 2206 Providence Road, Rosepine, Louisiana, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Homes.

Aubrey Jerald Lockhart, known to many as Jerald, was a man of many talents. His craftsmanship as a carpenter was a testament to his dedication and skill. He was a silent but attentive presence, always ready to lend a hand and show his care.

Aubrey is preceded in death by his son, Shawn Aubrey Lockhart.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Sandra Rose Suire (James); brothers, Dewayne Lockhart and Bobby Lockhart; and sister, Mary Tyler.

The Lockhart family deeply appreciates your support and kind words during this difficult time.

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Northwestern State University awarded nearly 800 diplomas to 779 graduates during Spring Commencement that took place May 8-9 in Natchitoches during three ceremonies.  Listed below are Vernon Parish graduates.

Anacoco: Katelyn Haymon, Bachelor of Science/General Studies; Lindsey Alligood, Isabella McCall, Hunter Rabalais, Jennifer Thornton, Bachelor of Science.

Fort Johnson:  Jatwon Burkes, Bachelor of General Studies; Gabriel Grant, Bachelor of Science; Jonathan Weaver, Master of Science.

Hornbeck:  Peighton Rhodes, Bachelor of Science.

Leesville:   Adara London, Ailaina Poleman, Katja Rutt, Associate of Science/Nursing; Kaitlyn Bailey, Bachelor of Fine Arts; Lisa Moore, Bachelor of General Studies; Jaylin Moore, Bachelor of Music; Junette Cutshaw, Ernesto Diaz, Hannah Dowden, James Magee, Matthew Morris, Laila Salas, Matthew Warren, Carletta Whitehead, Abigal Young, Bachelor of Science; Cassandra Hill, Jessica Bailey, Bachelor of Science/Nursing, Bachelor of Social Work.

Congratulations to all NSU graduates from The Vernon Parish Journal.

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Betty Jean Weeks died at home on May 5, 2024, after a brief illness. She was 94, and a lifelong resident of Simpson, Louisiana.

Betty spent her life serving God and others. As a member of Simpson Baptist Church, she worked wherever she was needed. Betty taught kids’ Sunday School, Training Union, GAs, and Vacation Bible School. She was the church secretary and sang in the choir. She kept the church nursery until her eyesight no longer permitted it. She was the unofficial church historian with an uncanny memory for facts, names, and dates.

Betty retired from Fort Polk in 1980 to care for her invalid mother. After her mother’s death in 1985, Betty immediately found new ways to serve God and others. She babysat many community children and provided after-school care for any child whose mother sent them across the school yard to “Aunt Betty’s”. She started a weekly WMU group in her home. She rekindled her love for crocheting and was always working on an afghan to give away.

Though she did not have children of her own, Betty helped raise her nieces and nephews, their children, and their children’s children! Three generations of the Weeks family grew up on Aunt Betty’s mac and cheese and her cookies.

Betty was the second of five children born to Earl and Daisy Blackwell Weeks. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Jerry Anne Boswell, Steve Weeks, Earlean Hall, and Gloria Dean Ivey; nephews Jay Weeks and Gary Hall; and niece Kayla Ivey. Betty is survived by her sister-in-law, Joyce Weeks, who was always available to help her. Betty is also survived by nieces Esta Trahan, Shelia Stephens, and Janet Edwards; nephews Don Hall and Kevin Ivey; many great-nieces and nephews, and a growing number of great- greats! Great-niece Jessica Doyle was special to Betty, her ‘grand’child, her pride and joy, her ‘medicine’. Jessica and her boys brought lots of sunshine into Betty’s life.

There will be a celebration of Betty’s life and Homegoing on Saturday, May 11, at 11 a.m. at Simpson Baptist Church with visitation from 9 a.m. until time for the service.

Betty Weeks lived her life as Christians are directed to in 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.”

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None available for this edition.

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Yodel Armada Rodriguez, age 42, of Channelview, Texas, was arrested and charged with one count of Theft over $100,000 relating to the theft of a Skid Steer from a business in Hornbeck in December 2023.  Bond has not been set.  Rodriguez remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Nicholas Oswaldo Garcia, age 37, of Gross Tete, Louisiana, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant.  Bond has not been set.  Garcia remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Kathy Ann Hoff, age 41, of Anacoco was arrested and charged with one count Criminal Trespass and one count Theft of a Motor Vehicle.  Bond was set at $11,295.  Hoff remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Robert Lacaze, age 43, of Pitkin was arrested on a bench warrant for non-payment of child support.  Bond has not been set, and Lacaze remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Cody Allen Weed, age 35, of Leesville was arrested on one count possession Schedule I Narcotic, 3^rd offense, one count Schedule II Narcotic (methamphetamine), one court possession of drug paraphernalia, and one count of Possession of a Firearm or Carrying of a Concealed Weapon by a felon.  Bond has not been set.  Weed remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

 

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

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The #1 ranked Pitkin Tigers could not unlock the mystery of Quitman pitcher Ian Tilley, as the #5 Wolverines upset the defending state champs 1-0 Tuesday at the LHSAA State Baseball Tournament at McMurry Park in Sulphur.

The defending state champion Tigers lost the game at the plate with only four hits in the Division V semifinal game.  Quitman scored in the first on a lead-off double that came around to score the game’s only run.

The game was over in 1 hour and 20 minutes.  The closest the Tigers came to touching home plate was a lead-off single by Lincoln Stephens in the bottom of the third inning.  A bundt and a ground out advanced the runner to third base with two outs, but the Tigers failed to bring the run home.

Pitkin flashed great defensive leather with double plays in the 4^th and 5^th innings that took Quitman out of scoring insurance runs. 

The young Tigers of Coach J.C. Holt should be back for several more years as their roster is littered with underclassmen across the field.

Quitman will play Hicks in the state Division V non-select finals Friday, May 10, at 11 a.m.

The #3 ranked Hicks Pirates dispatched the #2 Weston Wolves on the other half of the Tuesday bracket, 5-1.  Hicks will be chasing the 14^th state title in their storied history on Friday.

Hicks lefty, Hayden Doyle, pitched 7-1/3 innings before being taken out on the pitch count.  He would be available to pitch in the finals if needed.

The Wolves had Doyle in trouble with runners at 1^st and 3^rd in the first inning.  He ended up striking out the last batter in the inning.

The Pirates punched first when Dakota Edwards doubled and eventually came around for a 1-0 lead.  Weston had two on with one out in the bottom of the third, but Hicks’ third baseman, Lance Williams, caught a hardliner and stepped on the bag for an inning-ending double play.

Hicks scored a run on a pop fly lost in the sun by a Weston fielder to make it 3-0.  They could have scored more but Luke Williams was thrown out at third on a nifty play to end the inning.

The Pirates stuck again in the top of the 5^th as Addison Coffman singled through a drawn-up infield for an RBI and a 4-0 lead.

Weston lost a good chance to score by stranding a runner at second in the 5^th inning.  The Wolves did get on the board in the 6^th as Drew Browning led off with a ground rule double.  A single got the Wolves on the scoreboard and left runners at first and third, but a double play by the Pirates ended the threat.

Hicks stranded two runners in scoring position in the top of the 7^th.  When Hayden Doyle took the mound in the bottom of the 7^th, he slipped on the turf before he began to pitch.  Coach Gary Williams took him out with two outs in the inning.  Coffman came on in relief for the final out of the 5-1 win.  Doyle, a senior, threw only 84 pitches and would be available to pitch in the Division V finals on Friday.

The championship game can be heard live on 105.7/KVVP-FM and 93.5/KJAE-FM.

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The Simpson Lady Broncos ran, threw, and jumped their way to their first ever State Track championship, winning the 2024 Class C track title Thursday at Bernie Moore Stadium in Baton Rouge.  Simpson scored 78 points to easily outpace the field in winning the title.  Evans finished fifth with 46 points, and Hornbeck made the top ten with 24 points.  The Simpson boys finished in third place at the state meet with 51 points.

The Lady Broncos 4 x100 meter relay team of Dakota Miller, Olivia Edwards, McKenzie Grover, and Ashley Williams took first place.  Regan Clutter won the state title in the high jump.  Olivia Edwards took second place in the triple jump and the javelin.  Dakota Miller finished second in the1600 meter run and third in the 300-meter hurdles.  Alyssa Rowe took home a second in the 3200-meter run, while Ashley Miller took fourth in the 100-meter dash.

The Simpson boys’ third place finish was led by distance runner Ean Allain, who won titles in the 800- and 1600-meter runs.   Aiden Martin won the 300-meter hurdles, took third in the triple jump and fourth in the long jump. 

Distance star Reese Jeane of Evans won three state championships at 800 meters/1600 meters/3200 meters.  Her teammate, Addison Outlaw Knight, finished second place in the 800-meter run.

Hornbeck’s relay team of Parker Alexander, Trace Fox, Cooper Martin, and Landyn Remedies took home a state title in the boys 4×400 meter relay.  The Lady Hornets were led in scoring with a state title in the shot put by Hannah Mitchell and one in the discus by Cali Wedgeworth.

The Class B state meet was also held last Thursday in Baton Rouge.  Anacoco’s girls took fourth place overall by scoring 50 points.  Joanna Mawae won a state title in the high jump, and the 4×400 meter relay team of Sohpia Swinney, Riley Draughn, Brylee Goins, and Madi Stanley won the state title.  The team of Stanley, Hayley Smith, Izabella Henry, and Abilee Dowden finished in second place in the 4×200 race. Swinney also took second in the 300-meter hurdles and third in the 800-meter run, while Stanley added a third-place finish in the 800-meter run.

Pitkin’s Natalee Nolen scored points for the Lady Tigers with a second-place finish in the javelin throw.

The Anacoco boys were led in scoring with a second-place finish by Layton Kay in the 800-meter run and a third from Lance Grafton in the discus.  Anacoco finished seventh in the team standings and scored quite a few points with 4^th and 5^th place finishes.

The Pitkin Lady Tigers got on the scoreboard with a second-place finish from Natalee Nolen in the javelin.

The Rosepine Lady Eagles took fourth place with 43 points in the state 2-A track meet Friday in Baton Rouge.  Speedster Amaya Shine won the 200-meter dash and took second in the 100-meter dash.  The 4×400 meter relay team of Shine, Aaleyiah Pollard, Hayley Calcote. and Geson Dickson brought home a state title.  Rosepine relay teams also took fourth in the 4×800 meter and fifth in the 4×200 meter races.

Leesville had great finishes by some Lady Cats and another state title for a Wampus Cat runner. Distance star Lina Mills-Zacapa finished second in the 1600-meter run, third in the 800-meter run, and fifth in the 3200-meter run to cap off her stellar career at Leesville High. The Lady Cats relay team finished third in both the 4×400 and 4×800 meter races.  The Leesville boys posted a state title from defending state champion, junior, Keeton Johnson in the 1600-meter run.  The 4×800 meter relay team of Johnson, Jakori Celestine, Keon Johnson, and Azjay Rhodes finished in second place.

Congratulations to all the outdoor track and field athletes from Vernon Parish high schools who competed at the state level.

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The Vernon Parish School Board recognized Rosepine teacher Nichole Williams at their meeting on Tuesday, May 7.  Williams was one of sixteen teachers statewide to be recognized recently as an Exemplary Educator by the Louisiana Department of Education.  This award was created to acknowledge exceptional early to mid-year career teachers who exemplify Louisiana’s education profession.

The criteria for this award included possessing an engaging and inspiring presence that motivates students; offering strong, long-range potential for professional leadership; demonstrating exceptional educational talent; and achieving exemplary educational accomplishments.

Mrs. Williams is the first Vernon Parish educator selected for this award.  She will be honored later this year by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.

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The Vernon Parish School Board met on Tuesday, May 7, at 10 a.m. in the Central Office meeting room on Belview Road in Leesville.

The first order of business was adopting new millage rates for tax year 2024.  Finance Director Tim Ward told Board members this was a re-assessment year for the School Board, but no increases are planned.  Ward noted rates had decreased.  Most of these funds are for maintenance and debt servicing.

The Board also received bids for janitorial and cafeteria cleaning supplies.  They will review and accept the lowest bids.  Ward did point out that janitorial supplies had decreased somewhat in costs.  The low bid on bread and rolls was awarded to Flowers Baking of Lafayette.  It was a lower bid than last year’s.  The milk/juice bid from Mid-State Marketing/Borden in Alexandria was the only bid received.

During the last two VPSB meetings, Board members and school principals have been recognizing students from middle schools and high schools who have participated in state level competitions academically or athletically and finished in the top 6 in the process. Some 180 students were recognized from across Vernon Parish at the meeting.

The School Board recognized the May Employee of the Month.  Rodney Taylor with Taylor and Sons Insurance presented the award to Sheri Sinclair, cafeteria manager at Leesville High School.  Lisa Haymon, Principal at Leesville High spoke about Ms. Sinclair’s kindness to all and thoughtfulness in making sure no one goes hungry at LHS.

Finance Director Tim Ward came back and gave the Board the latest on system finances.  There was a decrease in Federal Title III funding of $5,000, but overall federal and state revenue to the Board has increased slightly.  The lunch fund costs are up nearly $500,000, but there was an excess in the General Operating budget to help out with that cost increase.  Ward said Vernon Parish will see an additional MFP funding of $59,000.

The Vernon Parish School Board will hold its next meeting on Thursday, June 6, at 10 a.m.

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Diane Henry White, 74, of Pitkin, passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Her funeral services were held at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Pitkin, with Bro. Ferran Bertrand, Bro. Jason Nolde and Bro. Brian Thompson officiating.

Diane was born on February 18, 1950, in San Antonio, TX, to her parents, Henry Henry & Alva Lee Pollard.

Diane found joy in tending her garden, cherishing every bloom. She loved her family selflessly and was renowned for her generosity. Diane was famous for pecan and pumpkin pies all over Vernon Parish and valued honesty. Meme had excellent taste and found comfort in her linen clothes and flip-flops. Her decorating reflects her artistic talent, which brought her immense joy.

Diane’s unwavering faith in God was a source of comfort and reassurance for her. She had many stories of how God had provided for her and her family through the years, a testament to her belief in His faithfulness.

Diane is preceded in death by three children, Marty Dale White, Tabatha Marie White, and Latonya Diane White.

Left to cherish her memory are the love of her life of 55 years, her husband, Roger Dale White; and two daughters, Lindsey Michelle Bryant (Wyatt) and Trista Ann Strickland (Charlie); special daughter, Sadie Bell Heflin (The apple of her eye who gave her the name Meme); two Brothers, Donald Ray Henry and John Henry; four sisters, Elaine Fee, Linda Doxey, Janice Carroll and Brenda Gill; five special grandchildren, a testament to the love and joy she brought to everyone’s life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude’s Medical Center.

The White family deeply appreciates your support and kind words during this difficult time.

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A funeral service for Norma Lea Buchanan was held on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Good Hope Baptist Church in Anacoco, Louisiana, with pastor Wesley Manning officiating.  Burial followed at Good Hope Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Serving as pallbearers were Mikey D. Johnson, Chris Buchanan, Pete Borders, Damien Maddox, Travis Duhon, and Timothy Bandeaux.

Norma Lea Buchanan was born on February 27, 1941, to T.W. Underwood and Dovie L. Farris Underwood. Norma passed away on May 3, 2024, at the age of 83. Norma was raised in Florien, Louisiana by her aunt Stella. She was a joyous child who had a contagious and beautiful laugh. Norma met her husband James W. Buchanan when she was sixteen years old. They got married on May 14, 1957, and were married for 56 years until her husband passed away. Norma was a military wife and lived in many different places, including Germany, Texas, Georgia, and then in 1969 they made their way to Fort Polk. Norma was a homemaker, wife, and loving mother to her five children. She loved being able to take care of her family and did so until the Lord took her home. She enjoyed sewing and working puzzle books. She made friends easily and never met a stranger.

Norma is preceded in death by her husband James W. Buchanan, her son James “Jimmie” Buchanan Jr, and her parents.

Left to cherish her memory are her four daughters: Wilma (Pete) Borders of Hornbeck, Louisiana, Wanda Buchanan of Leesville, Eva (Dale) Borders of Anacoco, Louisiana, and Ruthy Montalbano of Anacoco; brother, Welton Underwood of Many, Louisiana; sisters: Marcelle Ferguson of Port Neches, Texas, Barabara Marshall of Bonhon,Texas, Melva Parker of Many, Louisiana; grandchildren: Amanda Borders, Pete Borders Jr., Katherine Chapman, Rhiamon Chapman, Chris Buchanan, Angie Maddox, Christina Bandeaux, Samantha Hall, Nickie Johnson, and Jessica Buchanan; 15 great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family.

The family would like to thank Dr. Lord and the staff at the Woodlands for taking such great care of Ms. Norma.

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