Sheriff Sam Craft of Vernon Parish has been selected as a 2026 inductee into the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame, recognizing his decades of service and leadership in law enforcement and community safety.

Sheriff Craft has devoted more than 30 years to law enforcement, including more than 20 years as the elected sheriff of Vernon Parish. First elected in 2000 and beginning his sixth term in 2020, he has built a reputation as one of Louisiana’s most experienced and community-focused sheriffs.

Throughout his tenure, Craft has led the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office with an emphasis on professionalism, transparency and public trust. His open-door leadership style has helped strengthen relationships between law enforcement, local government and the community.

Under his leadership, the sheriff’s office developed a highly effective narcotics task force, combining proactive enforcement with community engagement. Craft has also prioritized partnerships with state and federal agencies, including participation in the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, aimed at protecting vulnerable populations.

In addition to enforcement efforts, Craft has focused on reentry and rehabilitation programs. Vernon Parish has gained recognition for its transitional work programs and inmate community service initiatives, including the “People Helping People Outreach” program, which emphasizes accountability and successful reintegration into society.

Beyond his role in law enforcement, Craft remains actively involved in the community, supporting youth programs, senior outreach efforts, local festivals and various civic organizations.

His selection for the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame honors his leadership, integrity and long-standing commitment to public safety and community well-being in Vernon Parish and across the state.

Sheriff Craft will be honored at the 2026 Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on June 5, 2026, at the LSU Lod Cook Center. He will be joining fellow 2026 inductees: Liz Murrill, Attorney General of Louisiana; Brandon J. Fremin, former U.S. Attorney; Judge Loren M. Lampert, of the 9th Judicial District Court; John E. Ballance, Sheriff of Bienville Parish; and Ernest “Bim” Coulberston, Chief of Police and Town Marshal of Farmerville.

The Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame, established by the Louisiana State Penitentiary Museum Foundation, recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to law enforcement, the judiciary, the legal profession, and public safety. Inductees are selected for their leadership, service, integrity, and positive impact on the state’s justice system.

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A Pineville lawmaker’s effort to strip private companies of eminent domain authority over carbon capture projects is dead in the House following a contentious committee vote Tuesday, though two companion measures giving Rapides Parish and all Louisiana parishes a vote on carbon sequestration projects remain alive — and property rights advocates say the fight is moving to the Senate.

House Bill 7, the Louisiana Landowners Protection Act authored by House Speaker Pro Tempore Mike Johnson (R-Pineville), failed 12-7 in the House Committee on Natural Resources and Energy after a nearly five-hour standing-room-only hearing packed with landowners and lobbyists. Crowd outbursts prompted the committee chairman to call for order multiple times.

HB 7 would have repealed a 2020 state law allowing private companies to use eminent domain to acquire easements over private property for carbon capture and CO2 pipeline infrastructure. Johnson, who voted for the 2020 law, said he now regrets that vote. “I didn’t ask enough questions. I didn’t ask any questions,” Johnson said. “Now that’s a contradiction against our U.S. and Louisiana constitutions we have to correct.”

Industry groups testified against the bill, with Louisiana Chemical Association President and CEO David Cresson warning that industrial projects tied to carbon capture in the state are valued at over $100 billion. “Louisiana’s competing directly with Texas, Mississippi and others for that capital,” Cresson said.

HB 7 is the first of more than 20 carbon capture bills filed this session to receive a committee hearing. Two companion bills by Johnson remain pending without a hearing date — HB 6, which would give Rapides Parish governing authorities a vote on whether CCS projects may proceed in the parish, and HB 5, which would extend that same authority statewide.

The 2026 legislative session continues through June 1.

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The City of Leesville is celebrating the career of Chief Beth Westlake, recognizing more than three decades of dedicated service to the community and the Leesville Police Department.

Chief Westlake is being honored for her leadership, commitment, and long-standing role in helping guide the department through years of growth and development. Officials say her impact has been significant, citing her vision and professionalism as key factors in strengthening public safety efforts across the city.

Throughout her career, Westlake has been praised for her integrity, compassion, and ability to lead by example, setting a standard for those who serve alongside her. Her work has touched countless lives, leaving a lasting impression on both the department and the community it serves.

A farewell celebration was recently held in her honor at the Leesville Event Center, where colleagues, friends and community members gathered to express their appreciation for her years of service.

As she enters retirement, officials expressed gratitude for her dedication and sacrifice, while also wishing her well in this new chapter of life.

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The City of Leesville is encouraging students to get involved in community beautification efforts through a pair of contests aimed at promoting litter cleanup and environmental awareness.

The Leesville Mayor’s Women’s Commission is sponsoring both an art contest and an essay contest as part of efforts tied to the upcoming Love the Boot initiative, a statewide cleanup campaign organized locally by the Junior League of Leesville.

The activities coincide with Love the Boot events scheduled for April 18–26, including the annual Trash Bash, set for April 18 at the Art Park.

Organizers say the contests are designed to help educate students on the importance of maintaining a clean community while encouraging them to take an active role in city beautification efforts. Entries must be submitted by April 10.

While the Junior League will lead the Trash Bash event this year, the Mayor’s Women’s Commission will continue supporting the effort in several ways, including providing a dumpster at Art Park throughout Keep Louisiana Beautiful Week, from April 17–27, for residents to dispose of collected trash.

In addition, the commission will work with the Public Works Department to coordinate extra curbside trash pickups across the city during the cleanup week.

Officials are encouraging students and residents alike to participate in the contests and cleanup efforts, emphasizing that community involvement plays a key role in keeping Leesville clean and welcoming.

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All or portions of Fort Polk-North Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and Fort Polk-Vernon WMA may be closed daily due to military activities, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced.

For Information on Open Areas: home.army.mil/polk/my-Fort-Polk/fort-Polk-hunting

Also, it is mandatory for hunters to check the open area maps, located at check stations, daily for sudden closures. Additionally, hunters are cautioned not to pick up any foreign material or objects while hunting on the WMA.

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The Vernon Parish Police Jury has announced adjusted hours in observance of Good Friday, with multiple departments closing temporarily as part of the holiday schedule.

The Public Works Department closed on April 2. The department typically operates Monday through Thursday, and will resume its regular schedule following the closure.

Additionally, several offices and facilities will be closed on Friday, April 3. This includes the Administrative Office, Animal Shelter, Landfill, and Recycle Center.

All offices and departments are scheduled to reopen for regular business hours on Monday, April 6.

Officials encourage residents to plan accordingly for the temporary closures during the holiday period.

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The Fort Polk community recently gathered for a special Story Time event hosted at Allen Memorial Library, bringing together families for an afternoon of reading, creativity and connection.

Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk Commander Maj. Gen. Jason A. Curl and Mrs. Becky Curl welcomed children and parents to the event, which featured a group reading followed by hands-on craft activities designed to engage young participants.

Organizers said the event focused on encouraging early literacy while also giving families a chance to spend quality time together in a fun and interactive setting. Children joined their parents in creating crafts after the story, adding a creative element to the experience.

Smiles and laughter filled the library as families took part in the activities, making it a memorable day for those in attendance and reinforcing the community-focused efforts at Fort Polk.

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Gregory “Greg” Allen Lantier 
Service: Friday, April 3, 2026 at 5 pm at First United Pentecostal Church in Leesville

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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Sheriff Sam Craft of the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office announces recent arrests made by VPSO.

March 27, 2026

Andrea Goins, age 51, of Anacoco, was arrested and charged with one count of Simple Burglary and one count of Theft. Bond was set at $18,000. Goins posted bond and was released.

Cody Wayne Whatley, age 44, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Domestic Abuse Battery. Bond has not been set and Whatley remains in the VPSO jail.

Jonathan Cheyne Wheeler, age 44, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic, one count of Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Facility, and one Bench Warrant. Bond has not been set and Wheeler remains in the VPSO jail.

March 29, 2026

John Hammett Lang, age 37, of Clyde, Tennesssee, was arrested and charged with one count of Driving on a Roadway Laned for Traffic, one count of Expired Driver’s License, one count of Possession of Marijuana, one count of Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic, one count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, one count of Illegal Possession of a Firearm while in Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. Bond has not been set and Lang remains in the VPSO jail.

March 30, 2026

Jared Randall Jeane, age 38, of Anacoco, was arrested and charged with one count of Criminal Trespass, one count of Simple Battery, one count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, one count of Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic, and one outstanding Bench Warrant. Bond has not been set and Jeane remains in the VPSO jail.

Shannon C. Greenwell, age 49, of Glenmora, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant for Failure to Pay Probation Fines and Fees. Greenwell must pay $3502.50 or spend 6 months in the parish jail. Greenwell remains in the VPSO jail.

Donald Lee Henry, age 26, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Stop signs and yield signs, one count of Possession of Cocaine, one count of Illegal Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and one count of Illegal Possession of a Firearm while in Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. Bond has not been set and Henry remains in the VPSO jail.

March 31, 2026

Israel Leviticus Araiza, age 18, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Simple Burglary and one count of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile. Bond has not been set and Araiza remains in the VPSO jail.

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

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Vernon Parish District Attorney Terry Lambright reports the sentencing today, March 31, 2026, of Melissa Ann Sweat, age 56 years, of Pitkin, Louisiana, to 40-years confinement at hard labor with the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections for the death of her husband, Rodney Sweat on Aug. 20, 2024.  

Sweat contacted the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office and reported that she shot her husband, Rodney Sweat.  The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office responded and found Rodney Sweat deceased in his residence on Boundary Road in Pitkin, Louisiana from apparent gun-shot injuries.  Ms. Sweat was arrested by the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office and charged with the second-degree murder of her husband, Rodney Sweat.  

Sweat’s prosecution was randomly assigned to Judge Tony A. Bennett’s courtroom, in Vernon Parish District Court, Division A.  Sweat pleaded guilty to manslaughter on December 17, 2025.  At Sweat’s request, a sentencing hearing was held on Jan. 28, 2026, to allow both Sweat and the State to present evidence and argument to the Court for his consideration of an appropriate sentence.  

Today, after careful consideration, Judge Tony A. Bennett sentenced Sweat to serve 40 years confinement at hard labor with the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections.  This prison sentence is the maximum permitted by law for manslaughter in Louisiana.  

After the sentencing, District Attorney Terry Lambright commented, “This senseless act of violence tragically robbed family and friends of lifetimes of future positive influences from and relations with the victim.  This and other violence of this nature will not be tolerated in this community.  I want to thank the victim’s family, for continued support through this prosecution, and the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office, for their professional investigation that facilitated the successful prosecution of this matter.  Finally, I wish to thank First Assistant District Attorney Cynthia Poston Lavespere for her dedication to this community and her tireless work ethic in obtaining this conviction and sentence.”  

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A warm and mostly dry start to the forecast period will give way to increasing chances of rain and storms late in the week, followed by a noticeable cool-down heading into the weekend.

Wednesday will bring mostly sunny skies with a slight chance of afternoon showers or thunderstorms. Highs will reach the mid-80s with south winds of 5 to 10 mph and a 20% chance of rain.

Clouds increase again Wednesday night, with partly cloudy conditions early becoming mostly cloudy overnight. Lows will fall into the upper 60s with breezy south winds and gusts up to 20 mph.

Thursday will be more unsettled, with a chance of thunderstorms in the morning and showers possible through the day. Highs will dip into the lower 80s, and rain chances will rise to about 50% with gusty south winds.

Thursday night stays mostly cloudy with lows in the upper 60s and continued light south winds.

Friday begins mostly cloudy, then becomes partly sunny with a chance of showers and afternoon thunderstorms. Highs will rebound into the mid-80s, with a 50% chance of rain.

Rain chances continue into Friday night under mostly cloudy skies, with lows in the upper 60s.

The weekend brings the most active weather. Saturday will be cloudy with a chance of showers in the morning and increasing chances for showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs will fall into the lower 80s with a 70% chance of rain.

Saturday night will remain cloudy with showers likely, mainly in the evening. Cooler air moves in, dropping lows into the mid-50s with continued rain chances.

Sunday stays cloudy with a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the morning. Highs will only reach the upper 60s, with a 40% chance of rain.

Sunday night into Monday remains mostly cloudy and much cooler, with lows in the upper 40s and highs around 70.

The pattern begins to clear early next week, with Monday night partly cloudy and lows in the mid-40s, followed by sunny skies and highs in the mid-70s on Tuesday.

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BATON ROUGE — A legislative effort to strip private companies of eminent domain authority over carbon capture projects in Louisiana was defeated Tuesday in a House committee hearing, though two companion measures co-sponsored by a Vernon Parish lawmaker that would give all Louisiana parishes a direct vote on carbon sequestration projects remain alive in the Legislature.

House Bill 7, the Louisiana Landowners Protection Act authored by House Speaker Pro Tempore Mike Johnson (R-Pineville), failed 12-7 Tuesday in the House Committee on Natural Resources and Energy following a four-hour hearing packed with landowners, lobbyists and members of the public. The hearing was described as extraordinarily tense, with sharp exchanges between lawmakers and outbursts from the crowd.

HB 7 would have repealed existing statutes allowing certain carbon capture and CO2 pipeline projects to be treated as serving a public purpose, which can permit the use of eminent domain to acquire easements over private property.

Officials with the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and Louisiana Economic Development testified against the bill, citing concerns that limiting eminent domain authority could hinder carbon capture infrastructure development tied to industrial growth and emissions reduction efforts.

Two companion bills remain pending before the same committee. HB 5 would give the governing authority of each Louisiana parish the ability to determine whether carbon sequestration projects and CO2 pipelines may be permitted within their jurisdictions. HB 6 would extend the same local option authority specifically to Rapides Parish. Both bills are co-sponsored by Rep. Charles “Chuck” Owen (R-Hornbeck), who represents Vernon Parish and was the original author of similar legislation in prior legislative sessions.

Vernon Parish is among the parishes with active carbon capture interest. CapturePoint Solutions has proposed the Central Louisiana Regional Carbon Storage Hub spanning Rapides and Vernon parishes, one of more than 30 carbon sequestration projects currently under consideration across the state.

The 2026 legislative session continues through June 1.

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Federal authorities say Vernon Parish remains a key part of ongoing Homeland Security Task Force investigations targeting drug trafficking operations spanning western Louisiana.

Officials said the following five cases build upon HSTF’s cases in the Vernon Parish and Natchitoches areas that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has prosecuted recently, highlighting the continued focus on the region.

One of the cases includes United States v. Willie Baker et al., No. 25-cr-00296, in the Shreveport area, where 10 defendants are accused of trafficking fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and methamphetamine from Houston into northwest Louisiana. The case also involves one reported overdose death and defendants with prior drug trafficking convictions. Sentences could range from 10 years to life if convicted.

Additional cases across the state include:

• United States v. Ranulfo Garcia Rodriguez and Christian Antonio Sanchez Ramirez, No. 26-cr-00070, involving 147 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in modified ice cream freezers
• United States v. Lance Fields and Ronald Adams, Jr., No. 26-cr-00102, involving 100 kilograms of cocaine hidden in an 18-wheeler
• United States v. Juan Francisco Gonzalez de Leon et al., No. 26-cr-00106, involving 15 kilograms of cocaine tied to the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion
• United States v. Elijah Jones, No. 26-cr-00074, involving fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone concealed in a storage unit in Alexandria

Investigators say these cases reflect how drug trafficking routes run through Vernon Parish and surrounding areas, with law enforcement continuing to build on previous investigations in the region.

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Fort Polk hosted its annual Spring Heritage Reunion on March 28 at Alligator Lake, recognizing local heritage families whose sacrifices in the 1940s helped make way for Army training efforts during World War II.

The ceremony included remarks from Heritage Family Association President William Nash and Maj. Gen. Jason A. Curl, commanding general of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk.

Officials expressed appreciation for the families whose contributions helped establish Fort Polk as a premier training center, honoring their lasting impact on both the installation and military readiness.

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GALLERY ONE EIIIEVEN in the Leesville Main Street District will once again pay homage to the deep diversity of cultures in our community by hosting ART of the EAT IV on Saturday, April 18. Last year the gallery provided a Louisiana tradition of a Cochon du Lait in the alley behind the gallery. This involved a day-long slow roasting of a suckling pig and the meal included fried catfish and all the trimmings.

This year the gallery has reached out into the community and will have locals prepare bites of food from their native cultures. The cultures represented are Italy, India, Pakistan, Syia, Panama, Germany, Louisiana, Hawaii, Bulgaria and Peru. ART of the EAT is a ticketed event and tickets are limited. Each ticket holder is served a serving of food from each culture’s table, and there is an open bar. 

The visual art highlight for ART of the EAT IV will be new works in the gallery by Alexandria artist Tony Forrest. 

Presale tickets are available at the gallery for 25.00 per person and they will be 30.00 at the door on April 18. The gallery will accept cash, checks and PayPal for tickets. ART of the EAT IV is being sponsored by Vickie Green – Snowden Word Insurance, Terry Lambright – Vernon Parish District Attorney, Barksdale Federal Credit Union, The Vernon Parish Tourism Commission and The Louisiana Seafood Marketing Board. 

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Spring is a beautiful time to experience Vernon Parish, where warmer days and blooming landscapes invite you to explore Louisiana’s Legend Country. From hands-on outdoor workshops to local markets and festivals, art exhibits, and a classic rodeo, April offers a mix of nature, culture, and community events that showcase the charm and creativity of the region.

Make Plans for MayFest

Join the fun at MayFest, the Louey Award winner for Festival of the Year, on May 1st-2nd, 2026, at the Vernon Parish Fairgrounds in Leesville. This annual, free event features two days of live music, food, and family-friendly fun with vendors from across Louisiana and surrounding states offering handmade goods and made-from-scratch food. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy live entertainment, demonstrating artists, children’s activities, and more. 

https://vernonparish.org/mayfest/

Edible Plant Workshop

Discover the natural side of Vernon Parish on April 4th at the Edible Plant Workshop hosted at Allen Acres from 9am-5:30pm. This immersive experience invites participants to see, smell, taste, and learn about wild edibles found throughout the area. The workshop includes field trips, hands-on gathering, and a prepared meal featuring wild foods, teas, and bread seasoned with native plants. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn something new in a beautiful outdoor setting. This workshop will also take place again on April 11^th and 25^th.

https://vernonparish.org/event/edible-plant-workshop-3/

Gallery One Ellleven Exhibit Opening

On April 4th at 6pm, head to GALLERY ONE EIIIEVEN for the opening reception of a new exhibit featuring oil paintings by Alexandria artist Tony Forrest. Known for his work as an artist and educator, Forrest’s exhibit showcases large still life paintings and traditional oil techniques. The exhibit will remain on display through May 30th and will also be featured during ART of the EAT IV on April 18th.

https://vernonparish.org/event/7838-2/

Leesville Main Street Market

Spend your Saturday morning on April 11th from 8am-1pm at the Leesville Main Street Market on 3rd Street in Leesville. This weekly market features fresh produce, homemade goods, handmade crafts, and unique local gifts. Second Saturdays bring even more excitement with family-friendly activities and added fun, making it a great stop for visitors and locals alike.

https://vernonparish.org/event/third-street-market-3/

Branded for Christ Cowboy Church Rodeo

Experience a true Louisiana rodeo on April 11th at the Vernon Parish Fairgrounds with the 3rd Annual Branded for Christ Cowboy Church Rodeo. The event kicks off with a 7pm performance, bringing together community, faith, and classic rodeo excitement for an evening of entertainment in Leesville.

https://vernonparish.org/event/7835-2/

Plan Your Spring Visit

Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, browsing local markets and festivals, enjoying regional art, or taking in a rodeo, April in Vernon Parish offers something for everyone. It’s a season full of fresh experiences, local flavor, and small-town charm. Plan your visit and discover all the ways to enjoy spring in Louisiana’s Legend Country.

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This month, citizens of the Adai Caddo Indian Nation gathered in Natchitoches for their second annual field trip. Tribal citizens came from Louisiana, Texas, and Alabama for a weeklong tour of historic, cultural, and religious sites across Natchitoches, Sabine, Avoyelles, and Vernon Parish. 

“Natchitoches is the oldest permanent settlement in Louisiana,” said Robert Brevelle, tribal councilman and trip organizer. “Our ancestors are among its founding colonial families. And for thousands of years before the French and Spanish, we Adai Caddo were here. We are proud to be part of the community.”

Over the past two field trips, the Adai Caddo visited nearly 50 sites in and around Natchitoches.

The group visited 6 of their ancient village locations as well as the 18th century presidio and mission of Los Adaes, which was the first capital of Texas. Los Adaes is Spanish for “the Adai”. Located nearby are the first two Catholic missions established in Louisiana, both of which are named for tribe as are the local bayou and lake.

Just north of the Los Adaes State Historic Site, the group prayed at it’s cemetery and mother church, St. Anne Catholic Church. St. Anne is the tribe’s patron saint. Several Native American statues and plaques adorn the church, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.

South of Natchitoches on Isle Brevelle, the group visited ancient burial sites and mounds located near the National Fish Hatchery and Melrose Plantation. The mounds and nearby bayou still bear the Adai name using its 16th century Spanish spelling of Ataho and Atayo. The group attended mass at St. Augustine Catholic Church, which was the original parish church of the St. Anne mission. The group hiked up nearby Sang Pour Sang (blood for blood) Hill, which was the location of the famous 1732 battle where the combined forces of the French from Fort St. Jean Baptiste des Natchitoches, Spanish from Los Adaes, and the Natchitoches and Adai Caddo Indians defeated the invading Natchez Indians. This decisive battle contributed to ending the Natchez War, saving the fledgling Louisiana colony. 

“We are grateful to the Cane River National Heritage Area, Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches, and National Park Service for the outstanding tours of Los Adaes, downtown Natchitoches, and the plantations of Oakland, Magnolia, and Melrose,” said Dee Niette Thompson, tribal councilwoman and historian. “We would also like to thank our cousins Jake and Mary Rivers for the tours of the Choctaw-Apache cemetery and powwow grounds.”

In Kisatchie National Forest, the group was greeted by wild horses as they visited the location where the last wild buffalo was shot in the 1870s. The buffalo herds are gone, but sections of their migratory trails through Natchitoches Parish and Kisatchie are still visible. Also visible are two waterfalls, which are rare in the Pelican State. Multiple Indian mounds are located nearby. While within the National Forest, these areas are privately owned by tribal members.

The group headed west along the El Camino Real (The Royal Road) into Texas. The old network of Spanish roads were originally Indian trails going from Natchitoches to Mexico City. Portions of the El Camino Real in East Texas and Louisiana connected Adai villages, which are shown on 17th and 18th century maps. Maps showing village locations are on display at Los Adaes, Fort St. Jean Baptiste des Natchitoches, and Grand Ecore.

“Our ancestral range covered much of CENLA and East Texas,” said Robert. “For the past 500 years of documented history, the epicenter of our tribe has been and continues to be Natchitoches Parish. This was the focus of our first two trips. We want to ensure our people know their history and maintain a connection with this land, holy sites, and our ancestors.”

Next year, the tribe will visit historic sites in Natchitoches and Nacogdoches. Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas. It was established in 1779 by Antonio Gil Ybarbo and a band of the Adai Caddo from Los Adaes. Ybarbo is a blood relative to many members of the tribe.

To learn more about the Adai Caddo Indian Nation, please visit http://www.adaicado.com.

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Pulling up to the gas pump has started to feel less like a routine stop and more like a scene straight out of a horror movie. You swipe your card, start fueling up, and suddenly—there it is—the total climbing faster than you can look away. At $100 and still rising, it’s the kind of moment that makes you question every decision that led you to that pump. The real twist? No jump scare soundtrack needed—just the quiet panic of watching the numbers roll. And honestly, the caption says it best: “Based on a true story.”

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Amanda King of Anacoco High School has been named a semifinalist for Louisiana Teacher of the Year by the Louisiana Department of Education.

The annual program recognizes educators who demonstrate excellence and leadership in education.

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While I was growing up, my parents fully supported my athletic career. But they also believed in hard work and understood that free time for a teenage boy was not a good thing. To say my teenage years were structured would be an understatement. 

While they never kept me from playing whatever sport I wanted to play, they had a rule that if I was not playing a sport, I had to get a job after school and on Saturdays. Note — our family was in no way desperate for money as my dad was superintendent for an oil drilling company. 

They wanted me to understand the benefits of a good work ethic. At the age of 10 my first job outside the family ranch was picking up trash on the mornings following all the baseball games the night before. 

They believed that many of life’s lessons were learned through working. Personally, I understood early in my childhood what a good work ethic was while growing up on a cattle ranch where there’s never a shortage of things to do. 

Jobs included, but were not limited to, building barns, vaccinating cattle, building fences and hauling hay. Owning a cattle ranch is a seven day a week job that requires a lot of commitment and dedication. It’s like raising kids; every day someone must do a head count while making sure they are fed. 

My last three years of high school, I had a job that I really enjoyed, working at Foxworth-Galbreath Lumber Yard. While I played three sports — football, baseball and track — it was during basketball season that I worked at the lumber yard after school.

I learned a lot from that experience, like how important it is to be on time. It was good that I answered to someone who held me accountable. I learned about the different grades of lumber and plywood as well as inventory control and how a lumber yard is managed. 

This also gave me a sense of independence as the job provided money for dating and gas. It taught me how to be responsible and how important people skills are in order to work with others. It also motivated me to continue my education and get a degree. 

These are lessons that many of today’s younger generation have not mastered. Many of today’s youth have no idea what it’s like to work for what they have. To answer to someone else who doesn’t accept excuses for being late or not doing the job right. 

Every job I ever had, and I’ve had my share, taught me something. In high school and college, I not only worked at a lumber yard, but I also worked construction with Brown & Root, unloaded box trucks for a shipping company at 4 a.m. each day, lined fields and kept the books for Dixie Youth games every night and was an engineer’s assistant for the Texas Highway Department.  

Each one of these job opportunities taught me a lot. But the most important lesson I learned was accountability, which is an important ingredient for being successful in life. So, if you’re looking for a purpose in life, maybe you need to get a job!

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“How do I set boundaries with my in-laws without becoming the family villain”

 See what Ida says 

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