Sheriff Sam Craft of the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office announces recent arrests made by VPSO.
March 14, 2026
William Darrell Forney, age 36, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Criminal Trespass. Bond was set at $ 750.00. Forney posted bond and was released.
March 16, 2026
Misty Brinlee, age 47, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Terrorizing and one count of Resisting an Officer. Bond was set at $ 5281.00. Brinlee remains in the VPSO jail.
ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.
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Robert Brevelle is the 2026 recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Baton Rouge Genealogical and Historical Society. In presenting the award, last year’s recipient and board member, Emily Dowden-Wilcox stated, “It is with great pleasure we bestow this honor onto Robert in recognition of his lifelong contributions to Louisiana history, genealogy, and culture. Robert has spent decades researching, promoting, and teaching our unique history. Many refer to him as “Mr. Louisiana” not only for his knowledge of Louisiana history, but also for his passion in sharing it as a speaker and author.”
“Few things in life have captivated me as profoundly as our state’s history, and at it’s heart arethe trials, tribulations, and triumphs of its people,” said Robert. “This little place on the map we call home tells the epic stories of our resilient ancestors who experienced the tragedy and salvation of religion, the rise and fall of the old empires, and the forging of our state and country. A country which continues to be an unprecedented, brilliant beacon of hope and freedom for the entire world. I am honored and humbled to receive this recognition from so many people I deeply admire. May God bless and keep you in the great state of Louisiana.”
Robert continues to make his own mark on Louisiana history. He is a recipient of the Evangeline Lifetime Achievement Award, the NRA’s Endowment and Ring of Freedom award, and a fellow of the Louisiana Genealogical and Historical Society. Last year, he was inducted into the Order of Cavelier Sieur de La Salle, the Louisiana society’s highest honor. He serves on the Tribal Council of the Adai Caddo Indian Nation and on the boards of multiple organizations across the state. For the past decade, he has been named to “Top 10” investor lists in the U.S. and Europe, and showcased in publications of The Top 100 Innovators and Entrepreneurs Magazine. The Dallas Business Journal featured Robert on its cover for transforming the oldest startup incubator in the South into a world class venture capital firm achieving a top 10 national ranking. He lead the firm to become the number 1 ranked Business-to-Business accelerator in the world and developed the Department of Homeland Security’s accelerator program for first responder technology. His list of accolades includes awards for innovation and engineering from NASA and the Department of Defense.
Robert is a graduate of Leesville High School. He attended the Illinois Institute of Technology on full scholarship graduating summa cum laude in a simultaneous engineering program with a bachelors and master’s degree. While working full-time in various Fortune 500 companies, Robert graduated with additional degrees and professional certifications from the University of Texas at Dallas, Southeastern, Southern Methodist University, and Cornell all while on full scholarship.
Robert is a life member of the VFW in Leesville, Leonidas Chapter of the AUSA at Fort Polk, Leesville High School Century Club, National Guard Association in New Orleans, the National Rifle Association, Baton Rouge Genealogical and Historical Society, Sons of the American Revolution in Natchitoches, Louisiana Genealogical and Historical Society, and Mensa.
“My love of history and genealogy was born from the teachings of my father, who was a part-time librarian at Fort Polk and amateur archaeologist,” said Robert. “We spent countless weekends at museums and battlefields. We would hike and canoe to historic sites. Impassioned history teachers and the Vernon Parish Library further nourished my interests and studies. But what I enjoyed more than anything was listening to the stories of my aunts, uncles, and the weathered tribal elders as they regaled me with a time and way of life whose remnants were vanishing right before my eyes. Nothing has sparked my imagination or my passion to defend it more.”
You can still find Robert fighting for Louisiana. He regularly works with the government and historical societies to preserve local French, Spanish, Creole, and Indigenous history. Earlier this year, he made headlines for a decisive victory in a 5 year legal battle to stop an illicit Home Owner’s Association (HOA) from destroying Indigenous sites and stealing land from disabled veterans and Native Americans.
Robert can trace his ancestry to the founding families of Louisiana. He is a lineal descendant of 1720s French explorer Jean Baptiste Brevel and his Native American wife, Anne des Cadeaux. Isle Brevelle, the birthplace of Creole Culture, is named for their son, Jean Baptiste Brevel II.
Founded in 1981, the Baton Rouge Genealogical and Historical Society was established to research, preserve and share genealogical and historical information of the people and communities of the greater Baton Rouge area. The society is a registered Louisiana non-profit and hosts seminars, classes, and events throughout the year for members and guests.
Residents in Vernon Parish can expect a steady warming trend and plenty of sunshine over the coming days, with temperatures climbing from the upper 50s into the mid-80s by the weekend.
Sunny skies are forecast for today, with highs reaching the upper 50s. Winds will be light, starting from the northeast before becoming variable later in the day.
Conditions will begin to warm midweek, with mostly sunny skies on Wednesday and highs rising into the lower 70s. South winds between 5 and 10 mph will accompany the warmer temperatures.
By Thursday, the warming trend continues with sunny conditions and highs expected in the upper 70s. Light southwest winds will persist.
From Friday through Monday, the forecast calls for mostly clear skies and significantly warmer temperatures. Highs are expected to reach the mid-80s, while overnight lows will hover around 60 degrees.
The extended stretch of dry, sunny weather is expected to provide favorable conditions for outdoor activities across the parish.
If your current security team’s primary strategy is to “observe and report,” you are essentially paying for a professional witness.
By the time an unarmed guard observes a threat, dials 911, and waits for local law enforcement to arrive, the damage to your property, your people, and your corporate reputation is already done. In the high-stakes worlds of energy infrastructure, commercial real estate, and industrial logistics, minutes of downtime cost millions of dollars.
Waiting for an incident to escalate is no longer just an outdated strategy; it is a massive corporate liability.
The End of Reactive Security
Across Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee, enterprise-level businesses are waking up to a harsh reality: standard security is failing them. The new mandate is proactive deterrence.
Fidelis Protective Services, an elite risk management firm headquartered in Louisiana with a massive four-state operational footprint, is actively replacing the outdated “observe and report” model with specialized, high-impact capabilities designed to neutralize threats before they paralyze your operations.
The Ultimate Deterrent: Specialized K-9 Teams
You can argue with a standard security guard. You cannot argue with a highly trained K-9 detection team.
Fidelis achieves a higher standard of safety by deploying specialized K-9 units alongside highly disciplined security personnel. These elite teams provide mission-critical advantages that standard guards simply cannot match:
Unmatched Visual Deterrence: The physical presence of an FPS K-9 and a disciplined handler provides an undeniable, non-verbal statement of capability. It forces bad actors to immediately de-escalate or abandon their target.
Rapid Post-Incident Stabilization: Whether responding to a bomb threat at a corporate campus, an arson risk at a petrochemical plant, or targeted violence at a distribution hub, a FPS K-9’s advanced detection skills allow for the rapid, precise clearing of an environment.
[ WATCH: The Fidelis Standard in Action ]See exactly how the FPS K-9 Division executes proactive threat deterrence and rapid environmental stabilization.
K-9 Tactical Breakdown “A stabilized environment, when it matters most, requires specialized capabilities,” says Fidelis Protective Services CEO, Lee J. Taylor. “We aren’t just placing a uniform at a desk. By deploying proactive teams across the region, we are actively assessing threats and stabilizing high-risk scenarios so our clients can keep their businesses running.”
Protecting the Infrastructure of the South
From the relentless operational tempo of Oil and Gas facilities in Texas to the complex access control required at major shipping ports in Tennessee and the Gulf Coast, your security strategy must match your operational footprint.
Stop paying for a reactive presence. Invest in a partner that brings elite deterrence, specialized capabilities, and a multi-state standard of excellence to the facilities that power the South.
ABOUT FIDELIS PROTECTIVE SERVICES
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The Vernon Parish Police Jury recognized the Pitkin Lady Tigers following their achievement as the 2026 Class B State Champions.
Officials hosted the team during a recent meeting, honoring the Lady Tigers for their successful season and championship performance. The recognition highlighted the team’s hard work, dedication, and representation of Vernon Parish on the state level.
The Pitkin Lady Tigers’ championship run marks a significant accomplishment for the program and the community, as the team earned the Class B state title in 2026.
Pickering High School’s powerlifting program will be represented by nine student-athletes at the upcoming state powerlifting meet, continuing a strong tradition of success under Coaches John Daugherty and Katy Neighbors.
Now in their fourth year leading the revived program, Daugherty and Neighbors have helped build steady momentum, with more than 50 Pickering athletes qualifying for the state meet since 2003. The program has also achieved national success, winning the past two USPA High School National titles and hosting several competitions.
This year’s group is led by experienced lifters returning from last year’s state meet, aiming to improve their standings and contend for medals.
The girls team will compete Thursday, March 26, and includes regional champions Layla Anthony and Zanyah Walker, along with Alyssa Brown and Laila Pete.
The boys team will take the platform Wednesday, March 25, led by regional champion Xavier Mitchell. He is joined by seniors Braden Ford and Israel Araiza, as well as brothers Hunter and Landon Noel.
All of the qualifiers, except Laila Pete, who is competing in her first year, bring prior state meet experience. Ford stands out as the only remaining lifter from Daugherty’s first state squad and will be making his fourth consecutive appearance. His previous finishes include fourth place in 2023, third place in 2024, and a runner-up finish in 2025.
The state powerlifting meet will be held at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner.
Vernon Parish 4-H participants delivered an impressive showing at the Central Region Commodity Cookery Competition, highlighted by Julia Chiasson earning the Overall Grand Champion title.
The annual event featured 95 contestants preparing a total of 117 dishes across multiple divisions and commodity categories, highlighting the creativity and culinary skills of Louisiana 4-H youth using locally grown ingredients.
Vernon Parish competitors earned numerous placements across categories, demonstrating strong performances throughout the competition.
In the beef category, Garrison Higginbotham placed third in Beef – Any Dish, while Julia Chiasson earned a red ribbon in the same division.
In Egg – Dessert, Easton Evans secured first place and James David Richmond received a red ribbon. In Egg – Other, Zeppelin Boone placed third, and Julia Chiasson earned a blue ribbon.
The pecan division saw Mary Claire Ratliff earn a blue ribbon in Pecan – Dessert, with James David Richmond receiving a red ribbon. In Pecan – Other, Autumn Jeane earned a blue ribbon and Zeppelin Boone received a red ribbon.
In Rice – Any Dish, RaeLynn “Rain” Miller earned a blue ribbon, and Sophie Kay received a red ribbon.
In the sweet potato categories, Zeppelin Boone earned a blue ribbon in Sweet Potato – Dessert, while Sophie Kay received a red ribbon. In Sweet Potato – Other, Julia Chiasson claimed first place, and Layton Jarrell earned a red ribbon.
Overall, Vernon Parish 4-H members were recognized across a wide range of categories, reflecting both their hard work and the strength of the parish’s program in promoting Louisiana agriculture.
Life has so many variables out of our control that makes navigating our daily situations difficult. But in some instances, there are a few things we can control and it’s up to each of us to make it happen.
One thing we have zero control over is who our parents are. We as individuals have zero say on the DNA we are blessed with, nor the people it came from. Even though we are who we are, we do have the ability to become the person we truly want to be. In most cases, we can pave our own path to success or failure with the skills we have been blessed with.
Even with bad DNA flowing through our bodies, we still have the task of shaping our lives into whatever we want to be. But only if we as individuals take control and ownership of who we are will our direction in life be confirmed.
I learned at a very early age that the good Lord above had blessed me with good athletic abilities. I figured out before the age of 10 that it would be through sports, with hard work and determination, that I could possibly have some success. Sports gave me a purpose!
That’s what we’re all looking for … a purpose! Even if it goes against the beliefs of the people who raised us, we have to take control of our own destiny at some point.
Even when the odds are against us, there are also times when we have to accept the consequences of our actions. We have to make decisions that not only affect ourselves, but those around us.
Sometimes this means hurting the ones we love the most because the direction they want us to go may not be the same as the destination we had in mind.
By the time we reach 17 or 18 years old, most people know who they are and possibly what direction or path they might want to take. They start to see things in a different light than, say, their parents. But as parents, we must recognize that even though we think we know what’s best for our children, that may not always be the case. We must allow them to spread their wings and continue to grow even if they make a few mistakes along the way. It’s called growing up!
I’ve always heard the excuse that he or she was a product of the environment in which they were raised. Sometimes this can be true, but it doesn’t always have to be that way.
For example, my stepdad was a wife beater and treated women like they were worthless. Even though I witnessed many of these incidents first-hand at a young age, I always knew in my heart that this was wrong, and I made a conscious decision to never be that kind of person.
I always felt that God instills in each of us the ability to know right from wrong when we are born. He gave all of us a brain and the ability to reason when we see things that are not right.
Just because you grow up in a house with little to no guidance doesn’t give you the excuse to ignore what is right. Subconsciously we still know right from wrong and it’s up to each of us to make good decisions and do the right thing.
We all need direction in our lives, which was lacking early in my childhood. Hopefully, we have those we can turn to for advice like a parent or maybe a grandparent, aunt, uncle, preacher, teacher or maybe a coach. No matter who it is, it should be someone we trust. A person who has our best interest at heart.
Bottom line is this — at some point in our lives we must take control over our destiny no matter what our background is. But when we make a decision, we must accept the consequences for our actions. This is what we call accountability!
“Are you finding it harder to set and enforce rules around your children’s screen time and social media use? How do you balance keeping them safe while giving them enough freedom to learn responsibility?”
On March 18, 1944, the romantic wartime drama Casablanca took center stage at the 16th Academy Awards, winning three Oscars including Best Picture.
Starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, “Casablanca” tells the story of an American expatriate torn between love and sacrifice in the shadow of World War II. Set in unoccupied Morocco, the film blended romance, suspense and patriotism at a time when global audiences were living through the war itself.
The film’s win for Best Picture cemented its place in Hollywood history. Director Michael Curtiz also took home the Oscar for Best Director, and the film earned a third award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Though not initially predicted to sweep the ceremony, “Casablanca” resonated with audiences and Academy voters alike. Its themes of duty over desire and moral courage struck a chord during wartime America.
The film’s dialogue has since become iconic, with lines like “Here’s looking at you, kid” and “We’ll always have Paris” embedded in pop culture for generations. Bogart’s portrayal of Rick Blaine transformed him into a lasting symbol of cinematic cool, while Bergman’s performance remains one of the most celebrated in classic film history.
Over the decades, “Casablanca” has consistently ranked among the greatest films ever made, frequently appearing atop lists from the American Film Institute and other organizations.
March 18 marks not only a major milestone for a beloved film but also a reminder of Hollywood’s enduring power to capture emotion, history and hope on screen.
Across Louisiana, spring weather often feels like a roller coaster. Residents can wake up to thick fog, enjoy warm sunshine by midday, and then find themselves watching storm clouds roll in just hours later. Sudden thunderstorms and severe weather alerts are not uncommon during this time of year, sometimes followed by clear skies again before the day ends.
The rapid shifts are a familiar part of life in the state, where warm Gulf air, cold fronts, and seasonal storm systems frequently collide. For many Louisianans, keeping an eye on the forecast—and being prepared for just about anything—has become a routine part of the spring season.
John Dillinger was one of the most notorious of the Depression Era criminals. His crime sprees included charges of desertion from the U.S. Navy, theft, auto theft, armed robbery, bank robbery, attempted murder, and murder. On January 25, 1934, Dillinger and his gang were captured in Tucson, Arizona. Dillinger was extradited to Crown Point, Indiana to stand trial on a host of charges including the murder of a police officer. Lake County officials claimed their jail where Dillinger was held was “escape proof.”
At about 9:30 on the morning of March 3, 1934, Dillinger and his cellmate, convicted murderer Herbert Youngblood, sat impatiently in their cell as a guard, Sam Cahoun, was making his rounds. As Sam peered into their cell, Dillinger aimed a pistol at him and ordered him under threat of death to open the cell door. Sam was unarmed and had no choice but to comply. Dillinger told Sam to remain quiet and to follow him. At Dillinger’s request, Sam called out for Deputy Earnest Blunk. As the deputy stepped out of the fingerprint office, Dillinger stuck the pistol against his side. Dillinger led Sam and Deputy Blunk back to the jail cell. After locking Sam in the cell, Dillinger had Deputy Blunk call out for Warden Lou Baker. As Warden Baker and three others stepped out of their offices, Dillinger aimed his pistol at them and forced them into the cell with Sam. Dillinger locked the cell door and headed for the warden’s office.
Dillinger exchanged his pistol for one of the machine guns from the warden’s gun rack and told Youngblood, “Come on, quick. Get one of those guns there.” Youngblood took a machine gun from the same gun rack and followed Dillinger’s lead. Dillinger used Deputy Blunk in the same manner to disarm a total of six deputies and 16 guards, all of whom he locked in jail cells. Unable to find any car keys in the prison offices, Dillinger, Youngblood, and Deputy Blunk made their way out of the jail house where they met the warden’s wife. Dillinger told her, “Be a good little girl and we won’t kill you.” She let them pass.
Dillinger, Youngblood, and their hostage made their way to the Main Street Garage where they located Edward Saagers, the garage mechanic. Dillinger ordered Saagers to give Deputy Blunk the keys to the fastest car in the garage, which happened to be a black police car. Then, Dillinger ordered Saagers to get in the car with them. At Dillinger’s order, Deputy Blunk slowly drove the escape car away from the prison as to not attract attention. Mrs. Baker alerted the sheriff, which set off a search for Dillinger by practically all of the law enforcement officers in Indiana and Northern Illinois. Two hours after their escape, Dillinger and Youngblood released Deputy Blunk and mechanic Saagers at Peotone, Illinois, 35 miles south of the Crown Point jail. Before driving off, Dillinger gave Deputy Blunk and Saagers a $4 tip and told them, “Good job!”
Newspapers reported that it was one of “the most spectacular breaks in the history of American crime,” partly because the pistol Dillinger used to set off the daring jailbreak was absolutely harmless. It was not loaded. It could not be loaded. You see, the pistol Dillinger used in that escape was one he had whittled out of a piece of wood.
Sources:
1. The Times-Picayune, March 4, 1934, p.10.
2. The Times (Hammond, Indiana), March 5, 1934, p.10.
With heavy hearts and deep love, we remember Vroni Lynn Thornock (Gautsche), who passed peacefully March 6, 2026, in Leesville, Louisiana, at the age of 79. Surrounded by the family she loved so deeply, she entered eternal rest after a courageous battle with declining health.
Vroni was born April 17, 1946, in the small town of Beetzendorf, Germany, to Hermann Gautsche and Anna Lieselotte Krause. She was the second of four children and grew up during a time that required strength and resilience from a very young age. When she was about six years old, her family fled East Germany and settled in Pirmasens in West Germany, seeking a safer future. Those early hardships helped shape the strong, determined, and compassionate woman she would become.
As a young woman working in a shoe factory to help support her family, Vroni met the love of her life, Richard Lamor Thornock. Their meeting began a lifelong journey of love, partnership, and devotion. Together they built a family that became the center of her world.
Vroni was a woman whose greatest joy came from caring for the people she loved. She was a devoted wife, a loving and dedicated mother, and a proud and adoring grandmother and great-grandmother. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and comfort, and her presence brought a quiet strength and kindness to everyone around her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Lamor Thornock, whose memory she carried in her heart.
She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her love and guidance: her son, Richard Peter Thornock and his wife Lisa; daughter, Cindy McCartney (Thornock) and husband, Ronnie; and her treasured grandchildren, Heather Winter, Stephanie Thornock, Jennifer Thornock, Thomas McCartney, and Eric McCartney, along with many great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life.
She is also lovingly remembered by her siblings: sister, Heidelore Winkmann and brothers, Hans Gautsche and Peter Gautsche.
Vroni’s life was defined by quiet strength, unwavering devotion to family, and a generous heart. The love she gave so freely will live on through the generations she helped shape and through the many lives she touched. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in knowing that her love remains with us always. Her memory will forever be a blessing. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts.
A memorial service for Vroni will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Her family requests that you wear her favorite color – purple. A visitation will be held at Jeane’s in Leesville from 12:30 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Clara Lee “Terry” Wiley Service: Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 4 pm at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville
Vroni Lisa Thornock Service: Friday, April 17, 2026 at 1:30 pm at the Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery
Vernon Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or vpjnewsla@gmail.com. Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to vpjnewsla@gmail.com).
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The City of Leesville has issued a boil advisory for customers on its water system along Highway 28 North.
The advisory applies to all residents and businesses in the affected area, including those located near the traffic circle. Officials stated the advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Customers in the impacted area are advised to boil water before consumption as a precautionary measure. Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Natchitoches Parish Fire District 1 responded to a structure fire in Vernon Parish on March 13 following a mutual aid request.
According to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Natchitoches Parish Communications District 911 dispatched firefighters at approximately 3:53 p.m. to the 1200 block of Louisiana Highway 8 after authorities in Vernon Parishrequested assistance.
Officials said the scene remains active, and no additional details were immediately available.
Sheriff Sam Craft of the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office announces recent arrests made by VPSO.
March 9, 2026
Matthew Wayne McCormack, age 35, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Turning Movements and Signals required, one count of Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic, and one Bench Warrant for Probation Violation. Bond was set at $4,500. A detainer for the Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole has been placed on McCormack and he remains in the VPSO jail.
March 11, 2026
David Albert Bailey, age 58, of Leesville, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant for Failure to Appear in Drug Court. Bailey must serve 5 days in the parish jail.
Donald R. Richardson, age 68, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Theft. Bond was set at $2,500. Richardson was also arrested on a Probation Violation warrant and he remains in the VPSO jail.
ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.
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The New Llano sewer system upgrade project is expected to be completed in August, according to an update from the Town of New Llano.
The $3.2 million project, funded through a grant, has been underway for the past several years and focuses on significant improvements to the town’s sewer infrastructure.
Work on the project includes a full renovation of the town’s sewer treatment plant as well as the installation of generators at five sewer lift stations throughout the system.
Town officials said the upgrades are intended to strengthen and modernize the sewer system to better serve residents in the community once the project is completed later this year.
Why rural communities deserve facts and honest debate about carbon capture and storage
I am a small-business owner in Vernon Parish trying to keep my doors open and raise a family in the community I love.
Few issues facing rural Louisiana right now carry bigger consequences for communities like ours than carbon capture and storage.
Some see it as a dangerous experiment being forced on rural parishes. Others see it as an opportunity to bring jobs, stabilize struggling industries, and reverse the population decline many rural communities have experienced for decades.
Representative Charles Owen recently wrote that there are a “litany of unanswered questions” surrounding carbon capture and storage.
On that point, he is right.
There are important questions. But the reason many remain unanswered is not because answers do not exist. It is because the geologists, engineers, and industry professionals who understand the science are often shouted down before the conversation can even begin.
Major decisions that affect the future of our communities deserve more than headlines, rumors, or social media posts. They deserve careful review of the facts and the willingness to listen to people who actually understand the science and economics involved.
And when fear becomes the loudest voice in a discussion, something unfortunate happens.
The very voices we need to hear from become silent.
Representative Owen compared carbon dioxide to weed killer and suggested it should be viewed as a poisonous or carcinogenic substance.
That comparison deserves clarification.
Carbon dioxide is not classified as a poison, and it is not classified as a carcinogen.
It is also already woven into daily life. CO₂ is used in medical manufacturing, fire suppression, agriculture, refrigeration, welding, food preservation, beverage carbonation, and water treatment. It is part of the air in every breath we take; it helps preserve many of the foods we eat, and for many people it is literally in the soda they drink.
The United States has transported carbon dioxide by pipeline for more than 50 years. Today there are over 5,000 miles of CO₂ pipelines, and during those decades there have been no recorded deaths from CO₂ pipeline transportation or injection.
Even the well-known pipeline rupture in Satartia, Mississippi — while serious and deserving investigation — resulted in no fatalities.
Two concerns often raised are that a leak would contaminate soil or drinking water.
Drinking water protection is central to the regulatory process. Class VI wells inject CO₂ thousands of feet below drinking water sources into deep rock formations sealed by thick layers of impermeable caprock — essentially a natural underground lid that fluids cannot pass through.
These same formations have naturally trapped oil and gas underground for millions of years.
CO₂ also does not contaminate soil the way chemicals do. It is part of the natural carbon cycle that plants use to grow, and soil itself releases carbon dioxide as organic material breaks down.
Representative Owen has suggested enhanced oil recovery is acceptable, but sequestration is not. But enhanced oil recovery already works by injecting CO₂ underground — and after the oil is produced, much of that carbon dioxide remains trapped in those formations permanently.
If carbon capture were truly a scam, environmental groups would not oppose it so strongly. Many oppose it precisely because it allows industries like oil, gas, and LNG to continue operating while reducing emissions.
And Louisiana sits at the center of that debate. As one of the nation’s largest energy-producing states, what happens here matters. If carbon capture works in Louisiana, it strengthens the future of American energy.
I know these things not because I read a headline, but because I set aside what I thought I knew and started asking questions of the people who work with this science every day.
Growth rarely comes from a place of comfort. But discomfort forces us to learn and search for better answers.
I am a small-business owner in Vernon Parish trying to keep my doors open. I am also a parent with children in our local schools — one of which could face closure if population trends continue.
That is the math our parish is already living with.
Without the economic impact of Ft. Polk, nearly 58% of Vernon Parish households fall into the ALICE category — families who work hard yet still come up about $5,000 short of the cost of living here.
They earn too much to qualify for assistance, but not enough to make ends meet.
Those families are not statistics. They are our neighbors.
Programs like the federal 45Q tax credit are often criticized as government spending, but they work differently. Companies only receive those credits if they are operating, employing people, and safely storing carbon dioxide.
If Louisiana chooses not to pursue these opportunities, the credit does not disappear. Our tax dollars will still fund the program — the difference is that the jobs and investment will go to states like Texas instead of communities like ours.
At the same time, our forestry economy is under tremendous pressure. When markets disappear, forests go unmanaged, disease spreads, and wildfire risk increases as timber grows overcrowded.
The proposed Class VI well would allow projects like Highland Pellet and Beaver Lake Renewables to locate in our region, supporting more than 1,000 jobs while purchasing roughly 500 additional truckloads of timber each day from Central Louisiana’s timber basket.
Without healthy markets, landowners may eventually clear forests for other development or solar projects. But when timber markets exist, forests are thinned, land remains productive, and rural jobs stay local.
The real question for rural Louisiana is simple: which future makes more sense for our communities?
When jobs disappear, families leave.
When families leave, schools lose students — and the difficult conversations about consolidation begin.
We invest years educating our children, but when opportunity disappears, those same young people often must leave to build their careers somewhere else.
Louisiana helps educate them — and other states benefit from the talent we lose.
Representative Owen and I both care deeply about the future of our communities. We may not be as far apart as it sometimes feels.
But the stakes for rural Louisiana are too high to allow fear, rumors, or division to guide the outcome.
The future of our parish — and rural Louisiana — deserves to be decided by facts, careful consideration, and the shared desire to do what is right for the people who call this place home.
Robert Haymon is a small-business owner in Vernon Parish.
When March rolls around in Louisiana’s Legend Country, all roads lead to one signature celebration — the Louisiana Moonshine Festival. This high-energy, music-filled weekend has quickly become one of Vernon Parish’s most anticipated spring events, drawing visitors from across the region for live entertainment, local flavor, and authentic Louisiana culture.
The excitement began early with the Louisiana Moonshine Festival Pageant on March 7. This hometown tradition highlights community pride and sets the stage for festival season in Vernon Parish.
Festival weekend officially starts with a Pre-Party on Thursday, March 26 at 4 PM at Louisiana Moonshine Company, located at 12193 Lake Charles Hwy, Leesville, LA 71446. Guests can enjoy live music by Stereodrive and food prepared by Kenny Emrick. It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, meet fellow festivalgoers, and ease into the weekend festivities.
The main event takes place Friday, March 27 through Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Vernon Parish Fairgrounds. Hosted by Keeping It Country Live – featuring the Louisiana Moonshine Company — Louisiana’s first and only moonshine company — along with many other moonshiners and master distillers. The Louisiana Moonshine Festival is an all-day celebration featuring live music, food vendors, and a lively atmosphere that blends Southern tradition with modern festival fun. Major funding is provided by: Keeping It Country Live in conjunction with AMVETS Veterans Tribute & United Cajun Navy.
Visitors will appreciate the festival’s welcoming, family-friendly environment. Kids 15 and under receive free admission with a paid adult ticket, making it easy to bring the whole crew. Veteran, Military, and First Responder discounts are available at the gate on the day of the event with official ID, reflecting Vernon Parish’s strong support for those who serve.
Beyond the festival grounds, March is an ideal time to explore Vernon Parish. Enjoy mild spring weather, discover local restaurants and shops in Leesville, and take in the natural beauty that makes this area of Louisiana special. Pair your festival experience with a weekend stay and turn it into a true getaway.
While you’re in town, don’t miss Backyard Beats 2026: A Spring Concert Series at the Leesville Polk Outdoor Stage. The series kicks off March 13 and continues April 10 and April 24, bringing live music and hometown energy to the outdoor stage. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly way to experience Vernon Parish’s growing live music scene.
March also highlights the strong military presence in the parish. On Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 2:30 PM CT, the community will gather for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the opening of the new USO Center at Fort Polk, located at Bldg. 8403 H Ave., Fort Polk North. The new center will serve as a place of relief, renewal, and support for the thousands of service members who train and serve there, reflecting the deep connection between Vernon Parish and its military community.
If you’re looking for live music, local culture, and a one-of-a-kind Louisiana experience, Vernon Parish is the place to visit this March. Start planning your trip to Louisiana’s Legend Country today.
The United States had elected a new president John F. Kennedy, in 1960 and there was hope that the world situation would be more peaceful. But in 1961 the Soviet Union started what is called the “Berlin Crisis”. The Soviets under Nikita Khrushchev were concerned about the status of Berlin, which was divided into 4 parts at the end of World War II. Hundreds of Germans were fleeing from East Germany into the safety of West Germany as they tried to avoid the Soviets. At Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin US Army tanks and Russian tanks had a 16 hour standoff at this access point into Berlin.
With the Berlin Crisis about to explode into possible nuclear war in Germany, President Kennedy called up thousands of Army reserve and National Guard troops to active duty. One such unit called into active service was the 49th Armored Division of the Texas National Guard. This National Guard Armored Division was activated and was sent to Fort Polk, La. for extensive armored training. On October 15, 1961 the division was activated into federal service. Thousands of Texas National Guardsmen and many from our local area’s here in Louisiana filled the division rolls.
While at Fort Polk the 49th Armored trained heavily on the ranges at Fort Polk and on Peason Ridge. This training gave all the attached units the opportunity to work together as a team. But in May 1962 the division staged a very large-scale maneuver known as EXERCISE IRON DRAGOON.
Exercise Iron Dragoon was one of the largest training exercises in the history of the National Guard.All exercise training during EXERCISE IRON DRAGOON was realistic with no equipment, units, or personnel being simulated with the exception of toxic chemicals, nuclear weapons, and live ammunition. As the units convoyed to their assemble areas all movement was orderly and upon arrival to their areas units began to camouflage both vehicles and tents. Much of the tactical activity consisted of attacking, seizing, and defending Peason Ridge . As the 49th advanced into Peason Ridge the AGRESSOR FORCES fell back but by the next day there was a large counterattack when the AGRESSOR FORCES set off a simulated atomic bomb southeast of Eagle Hill near the Sabine and Vernon Parish line. The 49th counterattacked and pushed the AGRESSOR FORCES back. When the 49th counterattacked the divisions missile unit became the very first Army National Guard Unit to fire the Honest John missile . The Honest John was fired with a training war head but in time of actual war the missile could fire a nuclear tipped surface to surface warhead.
EXERCISE IRON DRAGOON was the first training exercise involving an entire armored division since EXERCISE SAGEBRUSH in 1955. The 49th Armored would have been rushed to Germany if the Russians had started a war during the Berlin Crisis. The 49th Armored would have been sent to stop the Russian Army from advancing through the Fulda Gap straight into Germany. But thankfully cooler heads prevailed in the Russian Army and it was decided to not push into Germany and Berlin especially. EXERCISE IRON DRAGOON accomplished one great thing. The exercise and other training made the 49th Armored Division combat ready. As the Berlin Crisis subsided the 49th Armored Division was returned to Texas State control in August 1962 and each unit returned to their home station in Texas.
EXERCISE IRON DRAGOON was another large training exercise that took place in Natchitoches, Sabine, and Vernon Parishes. This area from 1941 to the present day continues to be one of the major training areas for the United States military as units train to defend our great nation.
