District play and the road to Marsh Madness and the state basketball championships are in sight for lots of area girls’ teams and a few boys’ squads. Once again Vernon Parish small schools are among Louisiana’s elite teams. Rosepine’s Lady Eagles are ranked #1 in Division III non-select schools. Look at the Division V non-select schools and you’ll find Hicks #1, Anacoco #3, Pitkin #6, Simpson #7, and Hornbeck #10. One-half of the top ten in that division come from Vernon Parish. There are unofficial rankings from the LHSAA. Vernon Parish boys’ teams are also highly regarded statewide. Pickering is ranked #2 among Division IV non-select schools. Anacoco at #2, Hicks at #6, and Pitkin at #9, are ranked in Division V non-select schools.

LADIES
The best local record belongs to the Hicks Lady Pirates at 22-1. They got off to a good new year with a win over Hathaway 52-34. They opened District play at home against Oak Hill last night. The score was not available at press time. Hicks will travel to Elizabeth Friday for a district 4-B game.

Anacoco’s Lady Indians have posted a 22-3 record with recent wins over 4A Leesville 52-24, and Simpson 58-35. Anacoco opened District 4B play last night against Elizabeth. The score was unavailable at press time. Anacoco travels to Pitkin Friday night for a big early season matchup in the district.

Pitkin’s 18-9 record included a six-game winning streak that ended with a 61-35 loss to 5A Carencro at the Oberlin tournament. They bounced back, beating Washington-Marion 59-42 before falling to Oberlin 68-57. The Pitkin gym should be packed when Anacoco comes to town Friday night, January 12.

Hornbeck’s Lady Hornets had an impressive run at the Airline tournament in Bossier City at the end of 2023, going 3-0 before losing to #1 ranked Arcadia 65-32. They opened the new year with a 10-point win over St. Mary’s but fell in the Anacoco tourney to South Beauregard 48-32. The Lady Hornets will take a 16-8 mark into the district 3-C opener Friday, January 12, at Pleasant Hill.

Simpson’s Lady Broncos are nearing 20 wins and took a nine-point win over Negreet to open the new year. They lost to Anacoco at the Mickey Goins Classic 58-33 but bounced back to beat Plainview 59-38. They opened district play last night at Pleasant Hill. The score was unavailable at press time. Simpson hosts Ebarb Friday, January 12, in a district matchup.

Evans may be 9-15 but recently posted wins over 5A Pineville 61-19 and DeQuincy 86-2. The Lady Eagles lost to Leesville in the Anacoco tourney 56-44 but bounced back with a 49-33 win over Singer. Evans opened district play last night against Ebarb. The score was unavailable at press time. Evans will host Many on Thursday night, January 11.

The Pickering Lady Red Devils have won five of six, including 48-23 at Lake Charles College Prep earlier this week. They hosted Menard in the District 4-AA opener last night. The score was unavailable at press time. Pickering will entertain rival Rosepine Friday, January 12, in district play.

Rosepine’s #1 ranking in Division III is easier to understand when you look at recent wins over 4-A DeRidder 91-23, and 64-48 over 5-A Barbe. They were 16-7 entering district play last night versus Glenmora. The score was unavailable at press time. Rosepine will visit arch-rival Pickering Friday, January 12.

Leesville is 10-8 on the season with a recent loss to South Beauregard, 52-34, and a win over Evans, 56-44.

Faith Training Christian Academy plays in the ACEL’s Southwest Louisiana District and currently stands at 4-4. They play at rival SWLA Monday night.

MEN
The 23-7 mark of the Anacoco Indians is best in Vernon Parish and good for the #2 ranking in Division V non-select schools statewide. They opened the New Year losing to 4-A Leesville 39-36 but got payback, beating the Wampus Cats at the Mickey Goins Classic 56-32 and powering past 3-A South Beauregard 48-30. Anacoco played Elizabeth Tuesday in the District 4-B opener. The score was unavailable at press time. Anacoco visits rival Pitkin Friday night, January 12.

Pickering sports a 14-6 record and a #2 state ranking in Division IV non-select schools. The Red Devils lost to Lake Charles College Prep last week 78-55. The game against Leesville Monday night was cancelled due to weather conditions. District 3-AA play opens for Pickering Friday night against rival Rosepine.

The Hicks Pirates are 17-9 with 5 wins in a row. They opened the new year with a 70-43 win at Hathaway and won two games at the Mickey Goins Classic at Anacoco. Hicks blasted Simpson by 20 points and nudged Hornbeck 45-40. District 4-B play opened last night at Oak Hill. No score was unavailable at press time. Hicks will next play at Elizabeth on Friday, January 12.

Pitkin is 15-10 but recently suffered two close road losses, falling at Glenmora 53-51 and losing at Opelousas Catholic 61-58. Pitkin played at East Beauregard Tuesday. No score was available at press time. They play at Northside Christian Thursday, January 11.

Leesville is 10-8 on the season and recently lost two at the Anacoco tourney: 70-63 to South Beauregard and 56-32 to Anacoco. Their game with Pickering was cancelled due to weather Monday night.

Hornbeck’s Hornets have lost nine of the last ten games and are 9-14 on the year. They lost to St. Mary’s 56-37 to open the New Year, beat Singer-45 at the Anacoco tournament but fell to Hicks by 5. Hornbeck opens district 3-C play Friday night, January 12, against Pleasant Hill. Hornbeck played a non-district game against 3A Westlake last night, but no score was available at press time.

Rosepine sports a 9-8 record but had a solid opening to the new year with wins over 4-A DeRidder 57-42, and DeQuincy 64-52. The game against Merryville Monday night was cancelled due to the weather. The Eagles will open district 4-AA play Friday, January 12, at Pickering.

Simpson’s Broncos split games at the Mickey Goins Classic at Anacoco, beating Northwood/Lena 47-42 before falling to Hicks, 57-37. Simpson had a 10-15 record heading into the district 3-C opener last night at Pleasant Hill. The score was unavailable at press time. The Broncos host Ebarb Friday, January 12.

The Faith Training Christian Academy Patriots are 8-1 in the Southwest District of the ACEL.

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As I researched this historic location I went to the Kisatchie Ranger Station which is only about 1 ½ miles from Locust Hill. At the Ranger Station, once the location of the CCC Camp located there in the 1930’s, there is a hand drawn map posted showing points of interest in the National Forest that had been drawn and painted many many years ago. And on this map is listed “Locust Hill” and right near it “Robber’s Hideouts”.

So now as you travel north on La. Hwy 117 through Kisatchie, La. about 5 miles, you can look and see Locust Hill. The next time you go by this location you are passing a part of the history of No Man’s Land!

There are many legends of No Man’s Land and there are many historical locations in this area pertaining to it. Many of the stories and legends are about John Murrell and his robber band that was believed to be as large as 1000 men. John Murrell and his band had many hideouts where they could hide the loot that they had stolen. It was said that Murrell had thousands and thousands of dollars of valuable treasure hidden in his hideouts. With no law enforcement in No Man’s Land John Murrell and several other outlaw bands travelled throughout the area freely. Most people know that Murrell had his largest cave hideouts at Kisatchie and more west of Florien in the Clearwater Community. We are going to look at a historic location at Kisatchie that is part of Murrell’s legend.

Many people don’t know it, but they drive by a very historical location once used by John Murrell and his outlaw band on La Hwy 117 just north of Kisatchie, La. Locust Hill was once a lookout point where Murrell had sentries posted to guard his main cave area. At one time the overhang along this 300-foot-long location was much bigger. My Pappaw Craft always told me it was big enough that Murrell’s sentries could put their horses under the overhang and they could not be seen. He also carried me there when I was a boy, and the locust “shells” were hanging all under there. He said for years and years it had been known as Locust Hill due to the locusts hibernating there. When I again visited the site recently, I took time to walk around the location. As I looked around, I tried to picture where the sentries would have been and just how big an area they could see. The sentries could see almost ¾ of a mile in all directions. If they saw an intruder they would have had enough time to warn the other men in Murrell’s cave hideouts.

My Pappaw Craft had a vast knowledge of this area. He had lived in the area all his life and he had worked on some of the WPA projects around Kisatchie and had gotten a job with the Forest Service in the 1930’s when that agency was beginning to build the Kisatchie National Forest. He worked throughout this area and when the US Government decided to close the entrances to Murrell’s Caves he was there. He said that there were several large “rooms” or caverns and in one of the rooms there was a big pile of harness and trace chains that would have outfitted several horse or mule teams to wagons. And he said the rooms
were big enough that several wagons could be kept in one cavern and another was where the men lived. The needed protection was the sentries at Locust Hill and they were vitally needed!

He also told me that during the Louisiana Maneuvers of 1941, he had seen a “bunch of small tanks” parked under the overhang at Locust hill. These 3-man tanks may have been using the overhang to protect them from being seen by reconnaissance aircraft.

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Rickey Robertson retired from Louisiana State Police and upon his retirement became a historical researcher/writer for Stephen F. Austin State University.  Rickey is a proud Peason Ridge Heritage Family member and currently is Pastor of Cold Springs Baptist Church in Anacoco, Louisiana. Rickey has written many articles on the Louisiana Maneuvers of 1941 and speaks to groups on this great historical event that affected our state and nation. He and his wife reside in Peason, Louisiana.

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Laura Lorraine Richardson was born February 28, 1945, in Richlands, Virginia to Paul and Essie Cruey. Lorraine went home to be with the Lord January 2, 2024, surrounded by her family.

Lorraine was married to Burk Richardson for 60 years. She was a loving mother to two children, Angela Ringersma and Robert Richardson.

Mom loved all people, especially babies. She could quiet the fussiest babies in a matter of moments. She owned the Rabbit Patch in Leesville. She enjoyed making crafts and shopping for affordable items to sell in her shop. Mom wanted everyone to have beautiful home decor. As a result, she gave many items away. She could turn a rotten piece of wood into something beautiful. She enjoyed sewing and all stitches had to be perfect; we have memories of ripping out stitches that were less than perfect to her eye. She was able to look at something she wanted to sew, draw a pattern, and make something beautiful. Her final project started in August 2023 when she started making port pillows for the Rapides Cancer Center. During COVID, mom made 1000’s of masks and gave them to local schools and schools out of state. She loved to fish with dad at their pond. Mom enjoyed watching and feeding wildlife. Animals enjoyed feasting in their garden, the blue berry patch, and their fruit trees. Mom would also say “they have to eat too”. Mom loved flowers and plants and could grow anything. Over the years, they had over 900 pineapple plants. We ate lots of pineapples through those years and so did the wild critters. She loved to read and learned to use a kindle. She also learned how to download games on her I-PAD and her favorite puzzle games. In her day, she was a fabulous cook and could cook a mean pot of gumbo.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Essie Cruey, two brothers, Bill and Chum Cruey, one sister, Loretta Dowdy.

She has survived by her husband, Burk Richardson, daughter, Angela Ringersma, son, Robert Richardson (Tammy) granddaughters, Hailey Taylor (Scott Taylor) and Kelly Kealaula (Buddy Gibson) and great grandbabies, Caleb, Carsyn, Cadyn, and Kay Kay, and son in law Dan Ringersma, along with his son, Shaun Ringersma (Janelle) 4 children Gavin, Jace, Daniel, Vivianna; and his daughter, Shannon Cotter (Charles).

Graveside service was held Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Leesville Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to St Jude’s Children Hospital.

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Alton Jene Knight passed peacefully from this earth on Wednesday, January 3, 2024.

Homegoing services for Alton were held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at The Church House in Leesville with Reverend Lorraine Smith officiating. Burial followed in Ebenezer Cemetery, Hicks, Louisiana under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service.

Alton was born on May 18, 1942, in Leesville, to George and Lena Spurgeon Knight and passed away on January 3, 2024, in Leesville at the age of 81. Alton was preceded in death by his parents, George and Lena Spurgeon Knight, his brothers, Kyle Knight and Garland Knight, daughter, Elizabeth (Lizzie) Taylor and wife, Shirley Hill Knight.

Left to cherish their memories of him are his loving wife, Neva Knight of Simpson, Louisiana, sons, Paul Knight (Tera) of Dallas, Texas, Michial Gregg Jr. (Tarah) of Denham Springs, Louisiana, daughters, Amy Knight of Austin, Texas, Rebeka Wilson (Danny) of Norfolk, Nebraska, Rhonda Hampton of Leesville, Louisiana, 7 grandchildren: Justin Knight, Christopher Knight, Vivian Knight, Dana (Hunter) Knight, Isabella Wilson, Reagan Wilson, Zachary Taylor, one sister, Carolyn Hughes of Leesville, and a multitude of family and friends.

Pallbearers were Austin Burns, Tully Burns, Sammy Joe Edwards, Steve Morrison, Greg Rachal, Archie (Bubba) Smith, Curtis Sumler and Trey Swofford.  Curtiss Perkins served as Honorary Pallbearer.

Alton loved the outdoors and all God’s creatures, especially his horses. He treasured his memories from the time he spent working as a young cowboy on King Ranch in Kingsville, Texas, as well as his time working in his local community.

You could always find him at a gospel singing, visiting with friends and neighbors along with his sidekick and best friend Archie Smith, taking a road trip or retelling stories from the past that no one else could seem to remember. He adored his wife, children and grandchildren and treated every stranger as though he had known them for a lifetime. He loved Jesus, his family, people, and life itself! He was the epitome of a Christian walk. He was content in all of life’s tests and trials and attempted to share the love of Christ with everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

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The NSU Music Academy is enrolling students for the spring semester. The academy was established in 2014 and is directed by Northwestern State music faculty Dr. John Price and Dr. Francis Yang. The academy offers piano, guitar, percussion and voice lessons for students from age six to adults. Lessons are taught face to face or online. Teachers at the academy are graduate and undergraduate music students studying at Northwestern State.

Last semester, students performed in a Monster Concert around Halloween and a Christmas Concert. This semester, they can perform in an end-of-semester Spring Recital in Magale Recital Hall. Many students will also perform in the NSU Music Festival. Students have also taken part in the National Federation of Music Clubs Festival, the Central Music Teachers’ Association Sonatina Festival and the Louisiana Music Teachers Association Upper Elementary Auditions.

Lessons begin the week of January 15. For more information and to register go to nsula.edu/musicacademy.

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By Doug De Graffenried

I have a friend who does not make resolutions at the beginning of the year. Their stated position is very correct. “Why pile up a bunch of promises at the beginning of the year? Why not make resolutions every morning for that day. See if you can keep a resolution for one day.” I have often suspected that New Year’s resolutions are a way of gaining control over tomorrow. We are, in essence, saying to God this is MY plan for the year. What if we resolved to live each day, abiding in Christ? My friend’s philosophy seems very Jesus like. Jesus told us to pray for our daily bread and reminded us that there is little sense in worrying about tomorrow. Wake up every morning and follow Jesus for that day. See how you do!

The problem with resolutions and all those resolutions we re-resolve in Lent is that we know we won’t keep them. We make them and play such games with our own resolve. What does that say about us?

When I did make resolutions, they began on January 2nd. That way I can have as much fun as I wish to have on New Year’s Day then on January 2nd the change begins. I resolved one year that I would quit making resolutions because by March I seemed to have forgotten what I had so boldly resolved in January. My friend is correct in resolving every day to live for Christ. I want you to note that as a culture the notion of resolve is fading. The hard truth is there is no change in our lives until there is resolve in our lives.

This year my beginning of the year pondering revolves around the concept of ETM. King Solomon said, “Where there are no oxen, the stable is clean, but a good harvest requires the strength of the ox.” (Proverbs 14: 4)

I think Solomon was saying, if you want good things to happen in life, you must “endure the manure.” You can only have a clean stable by getting rid of the oxen. If you remove the oxen, then you remove the ability to obtain a bountiful harvest. The very “tool” that helps bring you success also makes a very big mess. That is the essence of ETM (endure the manure).

ETM means that the good things in life don’t come easily. You must work for them. Do you want a better career? In most cases, forty hours will not bring you financial riches or success. Do you want a great marriage? Well, that means using muscles other than the ones that hold on to the remote control. It means paying as much attention to our spouse as you do to your social media presence. Do you want to be a great parent? Great parents are involved in every aspect of their child’s life. They also reclaim the parental word, “No.” Now we have created competing loyalties between career, marriage, and family. ETM means you struggle to be faithful in the middle of that conflict.

Do you want your spiritual life to grow? You must ETM. That means when you pray, listen to God for 30 minutes rather than begging him for something for three minutes. It means loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. It means loving your neighbor as yourself. Loving those neighbors can be the hard part of our Christian walk. Loving your neighbor can be messy!

ETM is my aiming point for 2024. To be a better person and to have a bountiful harvest you and I need to “endure the manure.”

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Happy New Year from Vernon Parish!

Vernon Parish boasts a legendary list of things to do.  That’s why we’re known as Louisiana’s Legend Country! You can stroll down Main Street and take in art, antiques, and boutique shopping, or find historic locations. With our amazing outdoor adventures and Fort Johnson as a proud part of our local offerings, you’ll find so much to do, you’ll want to explore the entire area and invite friends and family along for the journey! Start your year exploring Vernon Parish and enjoy the many activities.

Celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, January 15th, with the MLK Parade.  Join area churches and social and civic organizations as we pay homage to the life and legacy of Dr. King. The celebration will consist of music and a peace march, which begins at 10 a.m., followed by a free lunch. For more information, visit: LegendCountry.com/event/king-day-parade-and-rally.

Shop local! Third Street Market is held in Leesville each Saturday from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.  Discover fresh local produce, as well as homemade treats and handmade crafts and gifts.  For more information, visit: LegendCountry.com/event/third-street-market-3/.

Enjoy nature! Watch the beautiful phenomenon of eagles and other beautiful birds in our forested hills and water habitats. For more information on birding, visit: https://vernonparish.org/outdoors_cat/birding. You can even check out the webcam of resident eagles nesting in Kisatchie National Forest! We can’t wait to welcome the new hatchlings! https://www.facebook.com/KisatchieNF

And nature of the plant variety can be experienced throughout the winter, with hardy pines as well as fairly mild year-round temperatures. If you want to learn more about plants and even which varieties can be made into dinner, check out Allen Acres classes and even stay on-property: LegendCountry.com/AllenAcresVentures.

There are plenty of other outdoor activities to plan in Vernon Parish, from horseback riding to winter fishing to golf! Visit LegendCountry.com/outdoors to plan your route. Check out our legendary list of things to do: https://vernonparish.org/things-to-do/, including indoor, nightlife, shopping, and historic places! Your shopping can even include drinking, if you need a little extra warmth for all that outdoor exploration! Visit Louisiana Moonshine and take home a bottle (or two) after a few tastes and tour of Louisiana’s first (legal) distillery! See LegendCountry.com/things-do/louisiana-moonshine and add a toast to your trip!

We can warm you up with good food as well! Try something new and legendary in Louisiana’s Legend Country! From Brenda’s Kitchen Puerto Rican Cuisine to some of the best local barbecue at Hickory Smokehouse, and even road food to keep you going when you are out-and-about! Visit LegendCountry.com/Dining to plan your dining adventure.

And if you’re looking for where to stay, we’ve got you covered: LegendCountry.com/stay. And you can even book directly from our site – https://tinyurl.com/bdfvpj74.

For more information on Vernon Parish events, visit LegendCountry.com. Tag us on social media at #LALegendCountry and share your legendary fun this New Year!

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ALTON JENE KNIGHT
May 18, 1942 – January 3, 2024
Service: January 7, 2024, at The Church House in Leesville at 2:00 p.m.

LAURA LORRAINE RICHARDSON
February 28, 1945 – January 2, 2024
Service: January 6, 2024, at Jeane’s Funeral Home in Leesville at 10:00 a.m.

JOYCE MAUREEN JEANE
April 21, 1953 – January 6, 2024
Service: January 10, 2024, at Crystal Springs Baptist Church in Leesville at 2:00 p.m.

LYDIA Y. WILLIS
March 16, 1934 – January 5, 2024
Service: January 10, 2024, at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Leesville at 2:00 p.m.

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The Vernon Parish Police Jury met Thursday, December 28, in a special-called meeting that officially wrapped up 2023.

The Jury adopted a resolution approving the amended budget for 2023 and the proposed budget for 2024. Jurors approved the renewal of workers compensation for parish employees at a cost of $152,585.00.

Parish Administrator Rhonda Plummer reported ad valorem taxes in 2023 were up $871,000 to nearly $7 million. Timber severance taxes were up $217,000. Occupational license fees brought in $14,000, and sales taxes were steady, according to Plummer. The Police Jury covered a shortfall of $487,000 in criminal court funds in 2023. They anticipate the shortfall will be nearly $400,000 in 2024. Plummer told jurors that 2024 should also see the end of ongoing debris removal that has occurred since 2020 and cost the parish millions.

Jurors were also pleased to announce parish employees would receive a pay raise of 5% in 2024.

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Several months back, a new “wing joint” opened in New Llano: Wingalicious. I love wings and soon fell in love with their preparation — whole wings, fried extra crispy in a mild or spicy coating, sauce on the side. A friend who dined with me one day called them “naked, bare-back wings”. They are the best wings in West Central Louisiana, bar none!

Wingalicious has undergone a transformation. Starting Saturday, January 6, you can call them J & J Seafood and Wing Shack. THE WINGS WILL NOT CHANGE!! They will still be fried, whole, crispy and delicious. The menu has been expanded, BIG TIME!!

J & J Seafood and Wing Shack will serve fried and boiled seafood and a big selection of tasty side dishes. We’re talking fried fish and shrimp, boiled shrimp and snow crab legs; even crawfish in season. Those fabulous sides include Mexican street corn, boudin eggrolls, fried pickles, fried okra, crispy French fries, and more. Get a combo or a dinner. Eat in or take out.

J & J Seafood and Wing Shack will have a Grand Opening Saturday, January 6, from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Come by and try the new menu. J & J has recently remodeled the kitchen and refurnished the dining area with new tables and chairs. Catering is also available for your next event. Call 337-404-1349 and get those wings cooking!

J & J Seafood and Wing Shack is located in the Oak Plaza Shopping Center in New Llano, next to Jim Williams State Farm office; open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

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The staff of the Vernon Parish Journal takes this opportunity to say thank you. When our journey began back in September, we were hoping that we could restore a balance of local news for the people of Vernon Parish/Fort Johnson. Thanks for your readership and our advertising partners for the overwhelming support. We promise to bring you news from the area, including governmental meetings, sports, obituaries, and community happenings.

We will take a big leap in 2024 as we begin publishing the Vernon Parish Journal two days each week. Beginning Wednesday, January 10, we will publish on Wednesday and again on Friday, January 12. It is our commitment to bring you more current news, sports and feature stories. Remember, the Vernon Parish Journal is free to all! Subscribe the next time someone shares a story with you and have the e-paper delivered to your computer or mobile device at 6:55 every Wednesday and Friday morning. You can share stories with friends, and we also have a FaceBook page. Visit http://www.VernonParishJournal.com and take that first step.

Here’s hoping that 2024 is full of good news for you. Happy new year from Rick and Mary Lou. 

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Leesville’s dynamic scoring football duo of RB Xavier Ford and WR Izaiah Farley recently received All State honors from the Louisiana Sports Writers Association.

Ford was an All-State pick as a sophomore two seasons ago and is primed for an outstanding senior year. He totaled 2425 yards and 32 TDs his junior year in leading the Wampus Cats to the District 3-4A title. He has 5130 career rushing yards and 64 TDs. Ford was selected to the First Team All-State Offense.

Farley, a graduating senior, was selected All-State Honorable Mention. This year he caught 58 passes for 832 yards and 10 TDs. He was also a running back, kick returner and defensive back, excelling wherever the coaching staff put him on the field. Farley finishes his stellar career at Leesville with over 1200 yards receiving to go along with 17 TDs.

GIRLS BASKETBALL
Following the pre-holiday parish tournament at Rosepine several teams had great weeks.

Hornbeck’s Lady Hornets went to the Airline Tournament in Bossier City and went 3-0 to win it all. They defeated Class A Homer 69-25, Class A East Beauregard 54-52, and 5A host Airline 45-42. They are now 15-5 heading into district play January 12 against Pleasant Hill.

Pitkin’s Lady Tigers missed the Vernon tourney to play and win a tournament in Orlando, Florida, beating teams from Georgia and New York in the process. They have won five in a row, recently demolishing two in-state teams: Avoyelles Public Charter, 68-21 and Glenmora, 66-47. The Lady Tigers are 17-8 heading into district play.

Rosepine followed their girls’ title in the parish tournament by winning at Oak Hill 75-59. The Lady Eagles are 13-5 with four wins in a row heading into their final non-district games.

Simpson’s Lady Broncos have been lighting it up lately posting an 18-4 overall record. They have won 11 of the last 12; most recently beating 5A Alexandria Senior High on the road 52-48. They will open district 3-C play Tuesday, January 9, against Negreet.

Leesville followed the Vernon tourney with a 45-36 road win at Bolton to move to 11-6 on the season. The Lady Wampus Cats have games coming up with Pickering and North Central.

Pickering’s Lady Red Devils beat Singer 41-19 on December 28, to even their record at 9-9. They next play at Lake Charles College Prep on Thursday, January 4.

Evans had the toughest week following the parish tourney, losing at the Alexandria tournament to 5A schools Southwood and Sulphur. The Lady Eagles open district play Tuesday, January 9, against Ebarb.

The two girls’ teams with the best records, Anacoco (19-3) and Hicks (21-1), continued to win. Anacoco had won 16 in a row before falling to Rosepine in the parish tournament finals. They bounced Many on December 29 by a score of 51-21.  The Lady Indians open district play January 9 versus Elizabeth. Hicks will open district play January 9 against Oak Hill.

BOYS BASKETBALL
Anacoco’s 22-5 record is tops in the area. The Indians have won eight in a row, including winning the Vernon Parish tournament. They followed up that title by unloading on 2A Many 60-26. They played Leesville last night but the score was not available at press time.

The Simpson Broncos left the parish tournament and headed to Hackberry for the Hornets Invitational. They lost to 3A Iota in the first game but bounced back to win the consolation bracket beating South Cameron 61-34 and Oberlin 77-43. The Broncos are 9-13 heading into district play.

Rosepine played at the ASH tourney in Alexandria last week, losing to 5A ASH 69-42. The Eagles are 6-8 with several non-district games left on the schedule.

Pitkin lost in the parish tournament finals to Anacoco and followed that with a 53-51 loss at 2A Glenmora to fall to 15-10.

PIckering’s Red Devils followed a 1-1 showing at the parish tourney by beating Singer 58-55 to move to 14-5 on the season. They travel to Lake Charles College Prep for a matchup Thursday, January 4.

Leesville started the season 7-2 but has lost three of the last five games. They play Pickering Monday, January 8.

Hornbeck traveled to the Airline tourney in Bossier City where they lost to 4A Booker T Washington (Shreveport) 79-38 and 2A Loyola Prep 51-44. The Hornets have lost seven in a row following an 8-4 start.

The Hicks Pirates moved to 13-9 with a win at Saline last week, 58-47. They open district play Tuesday, January 9 against Oak Hill.

Evans went to 4A Grant last week and lost a close one, 58-53. The Eagles have lost six in a row to drop to 8-13 on the season.

MICKEY GOINS BASKETBALL CLASSIC AT ANACOCO
The Annual Mickey Goins Classic begins play Thursday, January 4, at the Anacoco Gym:
THURSDAY…3:30 p.m.: Leesville v. South Beau (G); Evans v. Northwood (B); Leesville v. Evans (G);
Anacoco v. South Beauregard (B)
FRIDAY…3:30 p.m.: Singer v. Hicks (G); Evans v. Northwood (B); Leesville v. Evans (G); Leesville v. South
Beau (B)
SATURDAY…10:30 a.m.: Singer v. Evans (G); Singer v. Evans (B)

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Earl Robert Nordby was born on January 4, 1940, in Willmar, Minnesota to Earl Scott and Florence Nordby. Earl went home to be with Jesus on December 27, 2023, surrounded by family.

Earl was a wonderful husband to Doris June Nordby. They were married for 54 years. He was also a loving father to three children, Robert Nordby, Korisa Riley and Dorea Schmidt.

He loved to learn and share that knowledge and love with others. He received his Doctor of Theology from Pepperdine University. Since he loved learning so much, he became a Christian school administrator in California and Washington. He continued to show his love for Christ preaching the gospel by pastoring several churches in Minnesota, Arizona, Washington, and anywhere else that there was a pulpit to preach from to include preaching in Leesville.

He showed his devotion to God and country by serving in the United States Navy and continued that patriotism by serving in the American legion for 24 years, even becoming the post commander in Washington state.

He had a great sense of humor and was always making us laugh. He was a jokester for sure and maybe even the class clown in school. He would enjoy going to thrift stores and antique stores with his wife and children looking for unique treasures to bring home from Kewpie dolls to model cars.  He loved to sing, even without a voice he hummed and harmonized until God called him home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Scott and Florence Nordby, sister, Shirley Ellingboe, and brother, Loren Nordby. He is survived by his wife Doris June Cutler Nordby, son, Earl Robert Nordby III and wife Beth, of Arizona; daughters, Korisa Riley, and husband Lance of Idaho, and Dorea Schmidt and husband Kevin of Louisiana; grandchildren, Stevie Nordby, Matthew Nordby, Danielle Nordby, Madissen Nordby, Nate Riley and Alexis, Emma Riley and Simon, Luke Riley, Scott Schmidt and Shelby, Brett Schmidt and Autumn, Rachel Schmidt, Timothy Schmidt, and Julia Schmidt; great grandchildren, Hudson, Jaxson, Blade, Katana, Bailey, Kinsley, and Aiden.

Funeral services honoring the life of Earl Robert Nordby will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at Christian Living Fellowship with Reverend Bobby Gannaway officiating. Burial will follow at the Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Serving as pallbearers will be Kevin, Scott, Brett, and Timothy Schmidt, Austin Simpson, Ken Bates, Rod Herzog, and Matthew Warren.

Visitation will be held on Friday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until time of service.

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On Sunday, December 31, 2023, just after 5:00 a.m., Troopers assigned to Louisiana State Police Troop E began investigating a single-vehicle fatality crash on LA Hwy 113 at Earnest Thompson Road. This crash claimed the life of 30-year-old Eric Robinson.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2012 Nissan Armada, driven by Robinson, was traveling north on LA Hwy 113. For reasons still under investigation, Robinson exited the roadway to the left and traveled through a ditch before overturning.

As a result of this crash, Robinson, who was unrestrained, suffered serious injuries. He was transported to a local hospital where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Time and time again, Troopers witness preventable motor vehicle crashes. Impairment and lack of seat belt usage are primary causes of crashes across the state. Louisiana State Police urge motorists to have a plan in place that includes a designated driver when consuming alcohol. Alcohol can impair visual ability, alter the sense of time and space, impair fine motor skills, and decrease reaction times. Alcohol can begin to impair a person’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle after just one drink. Please choose not to drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver, and always buckle up.

In 2023, Troop E has investigated 55 fatal crashes, resulting in 61 deaths.

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Matthew McCormack, age 33, of Merryville was arrested and charged with one count Vehicles Without Required Equipment or In Unsafe Condition; one count Switched Plates; one count No Vehicle Insurance; one count No/Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection; one count Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; one count Possession of Marijuana, seven counts of Attempted Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling; one count Criminal Trespass; one count Failure to Register. Bond was not set. McCormack remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.
Jaylon Larve Guy, age 21, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was arrested and charged with one count Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness and on an outstanding out-of-jurisdiction bench warrant from Tarrant County, Texas. Bond was set at $881 on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, but there was no bond on the bench warrant. Guy remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.
Joshua Wayne Meche, age 27, of Leesville was arrested and charged with one count of Theft and one count of Criminal Trespass. Bond was set at $7500. Meche remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.
Joni Odom Taylor, age 43, of Beaver, West Virginia, was arrested on an out-of-jurisdiction bench warrant. Bond has not been set and Taylor remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

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The local office of the Calcasieu Soil & Water Conservation District will hold their 23rd Annual Tree Sale January 17-19 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily, while supplies last. The Calcasieu SWCD has offices in Leesville and DeRidder. Pickup is available only in the Leesville office.

This is an excellent opportunity for homeowners, landowners, and businesses to plant trees. Hardwoods available include Bald Cypress, Black Walnut, Black Cherry, Live Oak and Native Sweet Pecan among others. Fruit trees for sale include plum, mayhaw, persimmon and southern crabapple. These bare root seedlings are only $2.00 each.

For information call the Leesville office at 337.239.2913, ext. 3. The office is located at 205 N. 5th Street (Hwy. 171 North).

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Happy New Year from Vernon Parish!

Vernon Parish boasts a legendary list of things to do.  That’s why we’re known as Louisiana’s Legend Country! You can stroll down Main Street and take in art, antiques, and boutique shopping, or find historic locations. With our amazing outdoor adventures and Fort Johnson as a proud part of our local offerings, you’ll find so much to do, you’ll want to explore the entire area and invite friends and family along for the journey! Start your year exploring Vernon Parish and enjoy the many activities.

Celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, January 15th, with the MLK Parade.  Join area churches and social and civic organizations as we pay homage to the life and legacy of Dr. King. The celebration will consist of music and a peace march, which begins at 10 a.m., followed by a free lunch. For more information, visit: LegendCountry.com/event/king-day-parade-and-rally.

Shop local! Third Street Market is held in Leesville each Saturday from 8 a.m. -1 p.m. On Saturday, January 6th, discover fresh local produce, as well as homemade treats and handmade crafts and gifts.  For more information, visit: LegendCountry.com/event/third-street-market-3/.

Enjoy nature! Watch the beautiful phenomenon of eagles and other beautiful birds in our forested hills and water habitats. For more information on birding, visit: https://vernonparish.org/outdoors_cat/birding. You can even check out the webcam of resident eagles nesting in Kisatchie National Forest! We can’t wait to welcome the new hatchlings! https://www.facebook.com/KisatchieNF

And nature of the plant variety can be experienced throughout the winter, with hardy pines as well as fairly mild year-round temperatures. If you want to learn more about plants and even which varieties can be made into dinner, check out Allen Acres classes and even stay on-property: LegendCountry.com/AllenAcresVentures.

There are plenty of other outdoor activities to plan in Vernon Parish, from horseback riding to winter fishing to golf! Visit LegendCountry.com/outdoors to plan your route. Check out our legendary list of things to do: https://vernonparish.org/things-to-do/, including indoor, nightlife, shopping, and historic places! Your shopping can even include drinking, if you need a little extra warmth for all that outdoor exploration! Visit Louisiana Moonshine and take home a bottle (or two) after a few tastes and tour of Louisiana’s first (legal) distillery! See LegendCountry.com/things-do/louisiana-moonshine and add a toast to your trip!

We can warm you up with good food as well! Try something new and legendary in Louisiana’s Legend Country! From Brenda’s Kitchen Puerto Rican Cuisine to some of the best local barbecue at Hickory Smokehouse, and even road food to keep you going when you are out-and-about! Visit LegendCountry.com/Dining to plan your dining adventure.

And if you’re looking for where to stay, we’ve got you covered: LegendCountry.com/stay. And you can even book directly from our site – https://tinyurl.com/bdfvpj74.

For more information on Vernon Parish events, visit LegendCountry.com. Tag us on social media at #LALegendCountry and share your legendary fun this New Year!

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SHARON KAY BRANDON
August 2, 1944 – December 21, 2023
Service: December 30, 2023, at East Leesville Baptist Church in Leesville at 2:00 p.m.

THERESA ALBERTA NICKS
August 14, 1948 – December 27, 2023
Service: December 31, 2023, at Plainview Baptist Church in Hornbeck at 1:00 p.m.

EARL ROBERT NORDBY
January 4, 1941 – December 27, 2023
Service: January 5, 2024, at Christian Living Fellowship Church in Leesville at 12:00 p.m.

ERIC SHAY ROBINSON
January 16, 1993 – December 31, 2023
Service: January 4, 2024, in Mt. Moriah Baptist Church of Hineston at 1:00 p.m.

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