By Anna Puleo
LSU Manship School News Service

Gov. Jeff Landry signed a sweeping package of auto insurance reform bills Wednesday, promising to lower the cost of coverage in Louisiana by cracking down on what he calls “frivolous lawsuits” and strengthening oversight of the insurance industry.

Landry called the new auto insurance laws “the largest tort reform package, and effort made in the history of the state.” He said the goal was to take a measured approach by holding both insurers and litigants accountable for rising costs.

The signing came a week after Landry flexed his political muscle and forced one of the key bills through the Senate in a late-night vote.

The bill, House Bill 148, gives Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple more authority to reject “excessive” rate increases—power that Temple says he does not need.

Temple has downplayed the idea that Louisiana’s high premiums stem from weak regulatory power, instead pointing to legal abuse and a high number of minor injury claims.

“It’s a false claim that rates are high because the commissioner doesn’t have some magical power,” Temple said. “The problem in Louisiana is bodily injury claims and the legal system that encourages them.”

An amendment added by the governor’s supporters also requires insurance companies to make their rate filings public, a move some in the industry say could expose trade secrets.

Landry defended the change by pointing out that insurance commissioners in other Southern states, including Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida and others, have the power to reject excessive rate hikes. 

He said HB148 brings Louisiana in line with our neighboring states and gives the Insurance Department more tools to protect consumers.

Auto insurance has been one of the most important—and contentious–issues in this spring’s legislative session. Political analysts say rising car insurance rates could pose a problem for Landry in a re-election campaign. 

Landry has repeatedly said he plans to hold Temple accountable if rates do not drop under the new law.
In the past, legislators have blamed plaintiff’s lawyers and focused almost entirely on tort reform, claiming that caps on big court judgments would bring down auto insurance rates. But premiums have continued to increase, and Landry contended that greater oversight of premium rates is also needed.

Landry opened his news conference Wednesday by reflecting on last year’s efforts to reform home and property insurance in Louisiana. He acknowledged criticism for not accepting the entire package of legislative proposals at that time and pointed to another Republican governor, Ron DeSantis, who did that in Florida.

“Today Floridians are struggling, and their legislature is trying to roll back some of those recommendations,” Landry said, using the example to explain why Louisiana is taking a more measured path.

While Temple expressed skepticism about the need for HB148, he has supported the rest of the package, saying the legal reforms are necessary to stabilize the insurance market and bring rates down.

Landry referenced a report commissioned by the Legislature that included tort reform recommendations insurers said would lower rates.

“Still hopeful that by the end of the session, we will sign even more of those industry-specific recommendations that insurance companies asked for, and more importantly predicted, would lower rates,” Landry said.

Other bills in the package that the governor signed target who can file lawsuits, how much they can recover and what jurors can consider in injury cases:
● House Bill 434 raises the minimum threshold of medical costs that uninsured drivers must meet to claim medical expenses in court, from $15,000 to $100,000.
● House Bill 450 requires plaintiffs to prove their injuries were directly caused by the crash in question.
● House Bill 431 bars drivers found at least 51% responsible for a crash from collecting any damages. Currently, they can recover damages for the remaining 49%. Landry said business groups have long supported this change.
● House Bill 436, a controversial measure, prohibits undocumented immigrants injured in car accidents from collecting compensation for general damages.
● Senate Bill 231 allows jurors to consider the actual amounts paid for medical care, rather than the often-inflated billed amounts, in personal injury cases.
● House Bill 549 mandates a 5% insurance premium discount for commercial vehicles with dashboard cameras. “Having undisputed video evidence will reduce litigation, improve truck driver safety, and lower costs for everyone,” Landry said.

With bipartisan backing on several of the bills, Landry said the changes mark a major step toward improving Louisiana’s insurance climate and restoring fairness in the system.

“Over the last 50 days, the only side I and the legislators who supported this package of bills have been on is the people,” Landry said. “Our people are too good to be taken advantage of again and again.”

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Luke Brandon, President & CEO of Merchants & Farmers Bank announces Reba Casey will be retiring after 36 years of service to Merchants & Farmers and the communities we serve.  “Reba’s dedication and kindness has made a difference not only in our institution but our community as well. We wish her nothing but joy in this next chapter,” states Brandon.

Casey began her career with Merchants & Farmers in January 1989 as a Teller and during her time employed, she has worked as a Vault Teller, Teller Supervisor, and Receptionist at our Main Office. Reba was promoted to Cashier/Officer in December 2021.

Casey, a Vernon Parish resident for the last 38 years, has three children—Randy Jones, Danica Reibold, and Danny Casey III and seven grandchildren—Jesse, Jacob, Jeremiah, Jaylee, Faithlyn, Kadence, and Casey.

“I think everyone who starts their career, no matter how much they like what they do, looks forward to the day they can retire. Now after 36 years here at Merchants & Farmers, I finally made it to this day. I would like to thank the board members and bank officers who have given me the opportunity to serve this
community. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many wonderful customers and people in the community, and have worked with great employees. My retirement plans include spending time with family and friends, doing a little fishing, taking a few cruises, and deer hunting. Again, thank you all for making this day possible for me,” states Casey.

In operation since 1928, Merchants & Farmers Bank is an independent community bank headquartered in Leesville, Louisiana with eight full-service locations in seven cities. Among the first of Louisiana banks to establish online banking, Merchants & Farmers offers a variety of banking products and services.

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By Billy Crawford

It didn’t take me long! Not one to waste any time, I got into trouble on the very first day of first grade!

It was September of ’52. My mother had walked me to the schoolhouse. Mrs. Roy Cook, a veteran teacher who I later learned to be both a wonderful person and an excellent educator, welcomed us at the classroom door. As I sat nearby, my mother and Mrs. Cook conversed. Mom was also a veteran, for I was the fourth and final child for whom she would go through this ritual.

Becoming somewhat bored, I began with my left hand rolling one of my new, freshly sharpened pencils from the groove carved into the top desk, rolling it down with my left hand and catching it with my right hand. With each roll, it made a pleasing little clicking sound. (Again, not to waste time, I was already working on my hand-eye coordination, which would later serve me well in athletics!) I continued this over and over while they discussed my future. Finally they completed the courteous conversation and Mom politely said goodbye. As soon as my mom vanished through the door, Mrs. Cook looked down at me and sternly said, “BILLY, PUT THAT PENCIL DOWN.”

Welcome to the real world!

After all these years I can remember not only the words that were spoken that day but also can summon up a vivid picture of it. Of course, now I can’t remember where I put the car keys. But I can remember Mrs. Cook’s command like it was yesterday!

One morning earlier this week I shared this memory with my wife Callie. Immediately, she then started telling me about the first time she got into trouble in elementary school. She then said, ” I think most people have a similar memory. Why don’t you share this with your family members and friends?”

I agreed! I thought I would give it a try. If you want to share your story, you could include your whole name, or first or last name only, or you could plead the fifth, using the line from my favorite detective television show “Dragnet”: “names have been changed to protect the innocent.”

Please send your stories to: billyecrawford@gmail.com

And for you “teacher’s pets” who never got into trouble, please share with us your secret?

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Northwestern State University awarded the Nth Degree to retiring Pineville High School Principal Dr. Karl Carpenter upon his retirement at the conclusion of the 2024-25 academic year.  Carpenter’s 45-year career in education left an indelible mark on countless students, educators and the broader community through his commitment to teaching, leadership and music education.  

The Nth Degree is a special honor presented to individuals in recognition of unselfish devotion to duty and the willingness to go the extra mile in meritorious service.  

Carpenter earned a bachelor’s degree in music education at NSU in 1979 and a master’s degree the following year.  He began his educational career as band director of Oberlin High School, later serving at Winnfield Senior High and Tioga High School, where he transformed the band into one of the largest and most decorated in central Louisiana, earning regional, state and national awards. 

Carpenter was named principal at Pineville High School in 2007.  During 18 years at the school, he awarded nearly 4,500 diplomas to graduating seniors.  He emphasized the importance of educators teaching students as individuals, stating, “They don’t teach chemistry. They don’t teach English. They don’t teach American History. They teach people.” 

Beyond his administrative roles, Carpenter served on the board of directors of the Louisiana Music Educators Association (LMEA) for two decades.  His service within LMEA includes serving as president, band division chairman, orchestra division chairman, and district director, reflecting his commitment to advancing music education in Louisiana. 

Carpenter has been an important partner to NSU through the years. He facilitated the Dual Enrollment offerings at Pineville to provide streamlined services to students that enabled them to obtain Associate of General Studies degrees, which became a model for other high schools. Pineville has been the #1 feeder school to NSU over the last five years and leads other schools in the state in AGS obtainment rates. He has also facilitated NSU visits with all seniors and juniors each year, providing access to NSU opportunities for Pineville students. 

Carpenter was inducted in NSU’s Hall of Distinguished Educators in 2010.  He has been a Demon football season ticketholder for decades. 

On May 14, the Louisiana House of Representatives passed House Resolution 171 to commend Carpenter on the occasion of his retirement as principal of Pineville High School. 

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In today’s tournament bass fishing world, if you listen closely, you’ll hear the music to the popular soap opera TV series “The Young and the Restless” or maybe “The Bold and the Beautiful.” Today we’ll take a look at all the drama tournament bass fishing is going through that would make any soaps fan jealous. 

If you noticed, I was not specific to professional bass fishing. That’s because there’s drama on all levels of tournament bass fishing. Whether it’s a local bass club event, BFL’s, ABA’s, Toyota Series or a benefit tournament, no event is immune to drama. 

People have often asked why all the drama today? Well, I personally think a lot of this started when the Bassmaster Elite Series decided to split with over 80 anglers jumping over to the newly formed MLF, known as Major League Fishing. 

Tensions were high during this split in 2018 as anglers made career decisions on whether to stay with B.A.S.S. or go to MLF. Friendships were lost and enemies created over these decisions.

This split was similar to what happened with professional golf as the PGA Tour and the LIV Tour created a lot of drama as golfers made decisions based on the opportunity to earn more guaranteed money. 

Social media has thrived with controversy swirling around tournament anglers. Disqualifications for rules violations by highly-regarded anglers has had both of the professional organizations dealing with constant negativity. 

The “no information” rule has also been a problem as anglers have been failing polygraph exams. There’s also been controversy with anglers cheating when catching bass outside the mouth when site fishing, which is a rules violation. 

But in today’s world, bad behavior is rewarded with social media clicks. Anglers know that it’s all about how many “views” or “likes” they can gather on social media which draws more attention to them and their sponsors. 

It goes back to the adage, “There’s no such thing as bad publicity.” Sponsors of both B.A.S.S. and MLF have learned to turn their heads when it comes to bad behavior with anglers not following the rules. 

So, back to our original question — is social media good or bad for competitive bass fishing? It all depends on who you ask. As far as the sport of bass fishing goes, I think it has been both good and bad. The good part has been the amount of information anglers can get about a particular body of water. It can also be a great place to share fishing information and celebrate a recent victory or a high finish. 

The bad side of social media is when people spread gossip; most of which is not true. They use it for what I call “feeding the beast.” It has also been known as a place where people vent their frustrations and express their feelings waiting on anyone to respond so they can engage in hate.

Like so many other things in today’s world, social media divides us and has become a landing spot for negativity. It’s up to us as individuals if we want to participate in the hostility or just keep on scrolling.

‘Til next time, good luck with your fishing and stay safe.  

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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This is a nostalgic opinion quiz for you.

In the 1960’s, who was the worst law enforcement officer depicted by television?

That is an easy one, right? I’m wondering how many of you thought that must be Barney Fife. Barney was the deputy to the wise and calm Andy Taylor, the sheriff of Mayberry. If trouble could happen, it would happen to Barney. Barney was allowed only one bullet for his gun. The bullet was kept in this shirt pocket, not in his service revolver. One of the recurrent gags was Barney accidentally firing his revolver. If an episode had mayhem, somehow Barney was in the middle of the mess. Most of the mess-ups in Mayberry were resolved in the thirty minutes of the sit-com. Barney would learn his lesson and we would tune in next week.

But my candidate for worst law enforcement officer in the television world of the 1960’s was Lt. Tragg, the foil of Perry Mason. Because Perry never lost a case, we knew that the person Lt. Tragg arrested was innocent. This detective of the Los Angeles police department was proven wrong every week. There were times that I felt sympathy for Lt. Tragg. He was depicted as a decent, moral, hard-working detective. His deductions were always spot on. The Perry Mason episodes were produced before the advent of forensic investigations. If there were fingerprints on a weapon, that was the guilty party. Or if the gun was registered to someone, they were certainly a prime suspect. Lt. Tragg never won! He was a loser each week! Although, he always held is on as a witness for the prosecution!

I get that Barney and Lt. Tragg are fictional characters. I understand the formulas that are a part of successful television shows. But sometimes an idea pops out of the strangest place. A clown character (Barney) or a perpetual loser (Lt. Tragg) can become examples of exemplary attributes.

I think both characters illustrate for me the Biblical concept of perseverance. Barney and Lt. Tragg go to work every day. They do their jobs. They show up. (Yes, I know they are fictional characters.)

One of the overlooked dynamics of our faith journey is the idea of perseverance. We are called to stick it out and to stick with it. We are called to follow Jesus with our last step. That is never giving in or never giving out.

Jesus said, “By your perseverance you will gain your souls.” (Luke 21:19) That means keeping on! So, get out there and keep on living for Jesus.

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A memorial service for Teresa Joy Myers Thomas will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Jeane’s Funeral Service with Reverends Gary Bankson and Martin Scott officiating. A visitation will be held at Jeane’s from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday.

Teresa was born November 14, 1962, in Leesville, Louisiana and passed away in Leesville on May 27, 2025, at the age of 62. For most of her life she lived in Vernon Parish where she cared for her family as a homemaker. Having a hot meal on the table for her family was important to her. In her earlier years, Teresa enjoyed swimming at the lake and just spending time with her family and her MANY MANY cats. She kept her mind sharp by solving Sudoku puzzles and playing board or card games. Her favorite television show was Little House on the Prairie.

Teresa was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Thomas, and parents, Amos Myers and Laura LeBlanc Myers.

Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Steven Eugene Thomas (Savannah) of Leesville, LA; daughter, Sandy Rena Carver (John) of Anacoco, LA; grandchildren, Haley Marie Austin (Brandon), Shaylan Evena Carver, Davin Mathis Carver, and Malania Grayce Thomas; great-grandson, Tucker Eugene Curtis Austin; brother, Billy Wayne Myers (Dora) of Okeechobee, FL; along with a host of extended family members and close friends.

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The Vernon Council on Aging will be having their Annual Membership Drive now until Monday, June 2^nd, 2025. Anyone residing in Vernon Parish who is 18 years  of age or older is available to become a member. Membership forms are available at the Council on Aging located at 200 North 3^rd Street, Leesville, LA 71446.

The Annual Meeting will be held Tuesday, June 17^th, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the dining area of the Council on Aging.  All VCOA members and the public are most cordially invited to attend.  During the meeting the Temporary  Board position that is currently being filled  will be elected as a full-time position. If any vacant Board positions are open they will also be elected at this time. These positions will officially begin July 1, 2025.

The Annual Financial Report will be presented along with a scenario of events from the past calendar year.

The finalized Board of Directors will then meet for a brief session to finalize Board officers and various committees for the upcoming year. Refreshments will be provided during the Annual  Meeting. If there are any questions, please call 337-239-4361 for any additional information.

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Funeral services for Johnnie Lee Smith will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Crystal Springs Baptist Church with Reverend David Jeane officiating. The burial will follow in Mitchell Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. A visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service.

Johnnie was born June 16, 1991, in DeRidder, Louisiana and passed away in Anacoco, Louisiana on May 28, 2025, at the age of 33. For most of his life, he lived in the Vernon Parish area and enjoyed being outdoors hunting and fishing. Johnnie had a passion for Harley Davis motorcycles and was an exceptional mechanic. He also loved shopping at Bass Pro Shop and Harbor Freight. Johnnie had a good heart and a beautiful smile.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his grandfather, Kurt Muss; grandmother, Eloise Smith; uncles, Victor Smith and Edward Dale Smith; aunts, Molly Smith, Sally Carver, and Virginia Smith; and cousins, Mickey Carver and Kim Gillespie.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Shalyn Harley Smith of Anacoco, LA; stepson, Braxlee Grapes of Anacoco, LA; father, Bennie Howard Smith of Leesville, LA; mother, Ellen Deneault of Anacoco, LA; aunts, Anita Fish of Missouri, Mary Mills, and Linda Lindsey both of Leesville, LA; niece, Robin Harpolt of Arkansas; great-nephew, Eli Harpolt of Arkansas; and a host of cousins and other extended family members.

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Dorothy Lea Monk Atchetee, lovingly known as Mama, Nannie, Aunt Dots to her family, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025, in Missouri City, Texas, at the age of 92. Born on January 21, 1933, in Fullerton, Louisiana. She moved to El Campo, Texas in 1951 when she married Harlo Atchetee. She raised her family at their Sandy Corner home until she was moved into the nursing home. She lived a life defined by compassion, service, and unwavering love for her family and faith.

Dorothy was a devoted mother of three and a lifelong caregiver who worked as a Licensed Vocational Nurse for many years. She served countless patients with gentleness and skill at Nightengale Hospital, El Campo Memorial Hospital, Wharton Hospital, and later retired from Hillje Nursing Home. Nursing was not just her profession—it was her calling.

A faithful member of First Lutheran Church in El Campo, Texas, Dorothy was deeply involved in the church community. She taught Sunday School and Bible School and was an active member of the Altar Guild. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life.

Though she found joy in caring for others and serving the Lord, Dorothy’s greatest love was her family and friends. She often said she didn’t want gifts—only their company. Her warm presence, generous spirit, and deep affection for those around her will be dearly missed.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter-in-law, Alice Atchetee; grandchildren Carrie Janssen and husband Aaron Janssen; Diana Atchetee; daughter Sheila Herrington and son-in-law James Herrington; grandchildren Sarah Barosh and husband Joshua Barosh; Jake Herrington and wife Haley Daniels; daughter Laura Cunningham and granddaughter Candace Cunningham. Great Grandchildren were Emma Barosh, Katie Janssen and Wyatt Herrington.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Dixon Harlo Atchetee; her parents, Minnie McLeod Monk and Dixon Monk; and her five siblings—Flaudie Mae Nixon, Gaynell Smith, Sherman Monk, Floyd G. Monk, and Steven “SA” Monk.

In her later years, Dorothy found peace tending to her flower beds and watching birds and squirrels from her window—simple joys that reflected her gentle heart.

The funeral service took place at First Lutheran Church in El Campo on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Dorothy will be laid to rest at Laurel Hill Cemetery in LaCamp, Louisiana, on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.

Memorial donations in memory of Dorothy may be sent to First Lutheran Church at 303 Oscar Street, El Campo, TX 77437.

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TERESA JOY THOMAS
November 14, 1962 – May 27, 2025
Service: May 30, 2025, at Jeane’s Funeral Service in Leesville at 6 p.m.

PATSY MAE FREEMAN
September 21, 1939 – May 24, 2025
Service: June 2, 2025, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville at 11 a.m.

JOHNNIE LEE SMITH
June 16, 1991 – May 28, 2025
Service: May 31, 2025, at Crystal Springs Baptist Church in Anacoco at 2 p.m.

DOROTHY LEA MONK ATCHETEE
January 21, 1933 – May 24, 2025
Service: May 31, 2025, at Laurel Hill Cemetery in LaCamp, Louisiana, at 1 p.m.

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The U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced five grants on May 19, worth seven million dollars in Brownfield grants to assess, clean-up and revitalize local properties.

The City of Leesville will receive a $500,000 Assessment grant to develop four clean-up plans.  The targets are the Nolan Trace Corridor, including the nine-acre old State School and the old 2300 square foot E-911 Call Center.

This EPA program began in 1995 and provided nearly 2.9 billion in grants to assess and clean-up properties and return them to productive re-use.

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A rash of severe thunderstorms rolled through West Central Louisiana and East Texas beginning Sunday night.  The worst is over, but some rain is expected today and Thursday.  Low level areas will be prone to flooding and the SRA will be keeping an eye on water levels at the Toledo Bend Dam.

Severe thunderstorms moved across Anacoco Monday morning and resulted in 60 mph winds and penny size hail.  Those storms were part of a large system that led to 9000 without power in Vernon parish, 10,000 in Rapides, and assorted outages in Allen and Beauregard parishes.  Linemen were busy on Monday, and the weather cancelled a Memorial Day program at the Central Louisiana Veteran’s Cemetery.  The latest updates from Beauregard Electric show that over 2500 members were without power across the BECI grid, 1500 of them in New Llano.

Tuesday morning, storms raked across western Vernon Parish with winds up to 60 mph.  Leesville,  Anacoco, Hornbeck, Toledo Bend Dam, and Evans were all hit with high winds and rain.

The forecast for today and Thursday is calling for more rain and thunderstorm activity in the area before clearing out, leaving West Central with a nice weekend.

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Northwestern State University’s Office of Electronic Learning and Global Education will present Instant Piano for Hopelessly Busy People on Tuesday, June 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.  

The class will be taught via Zoom and is for those 13 and up. The fee is $85.  

In just a few hours, those in the class can learn enough secrets of the trade to provide years of musical enjoyment. Participants will learn to play piano the way professionals do using chords. Since this class is being held online with Zoom, students will be able to sit at their piano or keyboard at home and take this course with no pressure at all. And since this course includes an online book and online follow-up video lessons, those in the class will be able to continue practice and study on their own. An optional periodic online question and answer session and recording of the class is also included. 

Topics to be covered include how chords work in a song, how to get more out of sheet music by reading less of it and how to form the three main types of chords. Other topics in the class include how to handle different keys and time signatures, how to avoid counting and how to simplify over 12,000 complex chords. 

 For more information or to register for classes, go to checkout.nsula.edu or call (800) 376-2422 or (318) 357-6355. Stay up to date with course offerings by following NSU Electronic Learning and Global Education on Facebook at facebook.com/NSULA.ece. 

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By Billy Crawford

Leesville being recognized as a hospitable town by WorldAtlas was no surprise to me. I was 15 when my Dad transferred to Fort Polk. Entering LHS as a sophomore, I immediately felt at home; always have.

There are many reasons it is such–each of you could make your own list why.

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The South is well-known for its charm and good manners, hence the term “Southern hospitality. “When visiting the South, guests are sure to be welcomed with open arms.

Whether visitors stay in a big city or small town, guests will be able to easily find hospitable service.

Like other states in the South, Louisiana fosters a sense of community and is full of “Southern charm.” In order to help tourists and residents alike, find these Louisiana communities with the utmost hospitality.

Leesville is a popular destination for its natural beauty. Plenty of outdoor adventures are to be had at South Toledo Bend State Park and Sabine National Forest. Leesville is home to the largest military base in the state, Fort Johnson, and the surrounding area is a hub for shopping and dining.

Natchitoches is the oldest town in Louisiana, and is considered the oldest permanent settlement within the borders of the Louisiana Purchase. Natchitoches’ National Historic Landmark District features French Creole townhouses, the 19th-century Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile and the Minor Basilica. There is also the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, which includes the 18th-century Oakland Plantation. Home of Northwestern State University, was founded in 1921 as Louisiana State Normal to train teachers.

Minden was founded in the 1830s by a group of Utopian settlers from Germany. The town’s well-preserved history can be explored in depth at the Germantown Colony Museum and the Dorcheat Historical Museum. Visitors can find welcoming accommodations at The Villas at Spanish Court or at Huffman House Bed and Breakfast.

Abita Springs was home to a Choctaw Native American community who named the region’s springs “fountain” because of their medicinal properties. In the 1800s, Abita Springs began attracting visitors as a health and recreational destination. Now, the town appeals to those seeking fresh water, natural beauty, culture and the ‘quiet life.’

Bastrop was once a settlement that began, in 1796, as a modest and struggling frontier community. Now, Bastrop is a thriving community, with plenty of events and festivals occurring around the courthouse square. Nearby attractions like the Georgia Pacific Wildlife Management Area and the Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge are perfect for visitors who enjoy outdoor activities.

Farmerville is a rural community that’s best known for Lake D’Arbonne State Park, where visitors find great opportunities for fishing, kayaking and relaxing within nature. Throughout the year, various fishing tournaments are held at Lake D’Arbonne, where anglers of all levels have the chance to compete. Additionally, during the summer, Farmerville hosts its Louisiana Watermelon Festival, where attendees can sample Louisiana crops and produce.

Opelousas known as the “Zydeco Music Capital of the World,” is the third oldest town in Louisiana. Zydeco’s Louisiana Creole roots and influence can be explored at Opelousas’ Zydeco Music Exhibit at Le Vieux Village Heritage Park, or visitors can see Zydeco music live on Friday nights during the Music & Market series. Historic architectures can also be found throughout Opelousas, with structures from the antebellum and Victorian periods.

St. Francisville is a picturesque destination in Louisiana, with its numerous historic sites and well-preserved architecture. Antebellum structures in the Greek Revival and Southern Gothic styles can be found throughout St. Francisville. Visitors can also indulge in shopping and dining opportunities within historic downtown.

St. Martinville has a rich history, as the area was founded in the 1760s by Acadian exiles who were forced out Nova Scotia, Canada by the British Empire. Additionally, after the French Revolution, the town became a safe haven for Royalist immigrants who escapes the guillotines in France, which is how St. Martinville got the nickname “Le Petit Paris,” or “Little Paris.” St. Martinville’s expansive history can be explored at the Longfellow-Evangeline State Commemorative Area.

Grand Isle is a town in Louisiana located on a narrow barrier island on the Gulf Coast that’s known for its beaches, especially those within the Grand Isle State Park. This park is full of trails, campsites, a fishing pier, the Grand Isle Birding Trail and the Butterfly Dome. Additionally, the Wake Side Cable Park attracts water sports enthusiasts with its jumps and obstacles.

Breaux Bridge also known as the “Crawfish Capital of the World,” is a charming small town in South Louisiana. Breaux Bridge hosts an annual Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival in may, where visitors enjoy crawfish, Cajun music, crafts and a carnival. In this town, there is a landmark bridge with a crawfish painted on the top that leads to downtown.

 

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GALLERY ONE ElllEVEN will offer space this summer to Magnolia Music Therapy and Adaptive Lessons(MMT&AL) to show you how music can heal, connect, and inspire.  Classes will be offered in a variety of programs led by board certified Music Therapist, TaraKay Greenlee.  Classes are designed to nurture creativity, enhance well being and foster meaningful connections through music.

Music Therapy is a powerful tool for a variety of disabilities, learning challenges, and mental health issues.  Programs for children are designed to develop the musical child.  The following are some of the programs that will be offered. 

MUSIC TOGETHER   For children, infants to five years, and their caregivers.  Interactive music can develop the musical child.

FRIENDSHIP HAND BELL CHOIR   A new offering, for children 6-9 years of age.  Promotes social and musical skills through hand bell performance, folk dancing and solfege singing.

INSTRUMENTAL BEGINNER GROUP AND INDIVIDUAL LESSONS   See your child’s musical passion grow in learning instruments with peers in musical games.  Various instruments are offered. 

THERAPUTIC MUSIC GROUPS   Future offerings will include drum circles, community choirs, multi-generational sessions and mental health therapy.

Join MMT&AL this summer, classes start June 10, 2025.  Sessions take place at GALLERY ONE ElllEVEN on Third Street in downtown Leesville.  Prices vary with classes.  Get details by calling TaraKay Greenlee at 208-201-9783 or by e-mail at  magnoliamusictherapyal@g-mail.com

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The Vernon Parish library will present a special event, Back in Time: Local Yearbook Collection. Tuesday, June 17, from 10am-4pm, the library, at 1401 Nolan Trace in Leesville will showcase their yearbook collection, celebrating decades of public-school history from Vernon Parish.

The public is invited to browse, reminisce, and reconnect with familiar faces and help the library staff fill in the gaps.

You may loan your yearbooks so a copy can be scanned into the collection. Your original will be returned.  You may also donate to the library archives. Archived materials are stored in a temperature and humidity-controlled room.

For more information call the library at 337-239-2627 or visit, http://www.vernonparishlibrary.org.

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The Louisiana Folklife Center at Northwestern State University will present the program “Fiddlin’ with the Finest! A Celebration of Louisiana Folk Fiddling” Saturday June 14 at 11 a.m. at the Many Depot Museum at 750 Highway 171 Bypass in Many. The event is free and open to the public. 

Three past Louisiana State Fiddle Champions, Clancey Stewart, Joe Suchanek, and Ron Yule, will discuss the importance of the folk fiddling tradition with Dr. Shane Rasmussen, director of the Louisiana Folklife Center and professor of English at NSU. Live music performed throughout the program will include various regional fiddle styles accompanied by demonstrations of fiddle stick playing and twin fiddling. A Q&A session on participating in fiddle competitions will follow. Fiddlers of all skill levels are invited to bring their instruments for a jam session with the invited musicians. 

This year’s Louisiana State Fiddle Championship will take place as part of the 45th annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival, to be held on Saturday July 19 at 1 p.m. in the Magale Recital Hall on the NSU campus. Fiddlers may compete in the championship or non-championship division as well as in the twin fiddle category. Registration is at noon in the first-floor foyer outside the Magale Recital Hall. The Fiddle Championship winner will perform on the Festival main stage in Prather Coliseum at 5 p.m. 

The event is sponsored by the Louisiana Folklife Center. Support for the Festival is provided by grants from the Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc., the City of Natchitoches, Cleco, the Louisiana Division of the Arts Decentralized Arts Fund Program, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the Louisiana Office of Tourism, the Natchitoches Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, the Shreveport Regional Arts Council and the State of Louisiana. 

The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. 

For more information, call the Louisiana Folklife Center at (318) 357-4332, email folklife@nsula.edu, or go to nsula.edu/folklife. 

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Funeral services for Mary Anna Miller were held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 26, 2025, at Simpson Baptist Church with Reverends Richard Lacour, Houston Burns Jr., and John Smith officiating. Burial followed in Laurel Hill Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Serving as pallbearers were Kasey McCarthy, Jeb Miller, Clay Miller, Bradley Thaxton, Jace Thaxton, and Josh Graff. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Samuel Thaxton and Cyrus Miller. 

Mary Anna was born June 18, 1943, in Grapeland, Texas, and passed away at her home in Simpson, Louisiana, on May 23, 2025, at the age of 81. She was born and raised in Texas but from the age of 20 lived in Louisiana, where she learned how to live on a farm, raising food, animals, children, and grandchildren. Mary Anna was most recently a member of Simpson Baptist Church and formerly a member of St. Clair Baptist Church and Laurel Hill Baptist Church. The Lord blessed her with a beautiful singing voice, and she used this to minister to others by singing at church, being the song director, and performing at numerous funerals throughout the years. She also served in her church as a Sunday School teacher and drove with the WMU group to many trips and events. Mary Anna loved anything red, white, and blue or with the Texas flag on it. Most of all, her favorite title was Mama and Grandma. Her grandchildren could count on her to attend their events whether it was on a ball field, at a rodeo, or a school activity. Her loving legacy will continue to bless her family as they recall the precious memories made with her.

Mary Anna was preceded in death by her parents, Bill Bradley and Dorothy Virginia Griffin Bradley; brother, Stanley Bradley; sister, Linda Bradley Pierce; nephew, Clay Pierce; and in-laws, Dewey Miller and Tressie Carruth Miller.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband of 62 years, Lamar Miller; sons, Trent Miller (Tonia) and Karl Miller; daughter, Terea McCarthy (Tim); grandchildren, Katie McCarthy Thaxton (Bradley), Kasey McCarthy, Jeb Miller (Autumn), Clay Miller (McKenna), Kayleigh Miller Graff (Josh), Ashley Miller, Kodi Miller, and Rain Miller; great-grandchildren, Jace, Samuel, Josey, Cyrus, Briar, Hadley, Declan, Jaylee, and one on the way – Ivy; sister, Susan Newman; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

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The Vernon Council on Aging will be having their Annual Membership Drive now until Monday, June 2^nd, 2025. Anyone residing in Vernon Parish who is 18 years  of age or older is available to become a member. Membership forms are available at the Council on Aging located at 200 North 3^rd Street, Leesville, LA 71446.

The Annual Meeting will be held Tuesday, June 17^th, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the dining area of the Council on Aging.  All VCOA members and the public are most cordially invited to attend.  During the meeting the Temporary  Board position that is currently being filled  will be elected as a full-time position. If any vacant Board positions are open they will also be elected at this time. These positions will officially begin July 1, 2025.

The Annual Financial Report will be presented along with a scenario of events from the past calendar year.

The finalized Board of Directors will then meet for a brief session to finalize Board officers and various committees for the upcoming year. Refreshments will be provided during the Annual  Meeting. If there are any questions, please call 337-239-4361 for any additional information.

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Timothy Wade Jarrell was born January 31, 1971, in Monroe, Louisiana and passed away May 19, 2025, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana at the age of 54. He worked in construction as a landscaper and sometimes as a painter. His hobbies included fishing and being at the river. His mother, father, and Uncle Shelby held a special place in his heart along with the rest of his family. When Timothy spoke to his family members, he let them know how much they meant to him. At a young age, he learned about Jesus from his Ma Evelyn and spoke of this often.

Timothy was preceded in death by his parents, James Wesley Jeane and Brenda Faye Jarrell Jeane.

He is survived by a daughter; son, David Jarrell; siblings, Jami Jeane, Janis Jeane Bridge, Joey Jeane, Kaleeta Cook, James M. Jeane, Julee Williams, Lindley Davis, David Tullos, Gary Sons, Felicia Bass, and Lil Bill Davis Jr.; uncle, Shelby Jarrell; and numerous extended family members.

Timothy’s family is planning a memorial service for a later date.

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