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

June 25, 2026

Amanda Marie Tharp, age 38, of Many, was arrested and charged with one count of Possession of a Schedule I Narcotic. Bond was set at $ 10,000.00. Tharp remains in the VPSO jail.

June 26, 2026

Demoreo Nifine Hall, age 38, of Pineville, was arrested and charged with one count of Criminal Damage to Property. Bond has not been set and Hall remains in the VPSO jail.

Cassey Whitney Mixon, age 35, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic. Bond has not been set and Mixon remains in the VPSO jail.

Brandie Lynn Murray, age 33, of Leesville, was arrested on two outstanding Bench Warrants. Bond has not been set and Murray remains in the VPSO jail.

June 27, 2026

Brandon Cody Bennett, age 40, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Criminal Damage to Property.

June 28, 2026

Alex Clayton Sheppard, age 26, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Hit and Run Driving. Bond was set at $ 1600.00 and Sheppard remains in the VPSO jail.

Nolan Ryan Wilder, age 34, of Leesville, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant. Bond has not been set and Wilder remains in the VPSO jail.

June 28, 2026

Alena Slayter, age 17, of Pitkin, was arrested and charged with one count of Domestic Abuse Battery. Bond has not been set and Slayter remains in the VPSO jail.

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

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The Vernon Parish School Board has announced the appointment of Jamie Bjornberg as the new principal of Rosepine High School.

Bjornberg brings 20 years of experience in education to the role. Throughout her career, she has served as an assistant principal, school counselor and classroom teacher while working with students and families in Vernon Parish.

A graduate of Rosepine High School, Bjornberg earned both her bachelor’s degree in education and master’s degree in education from McNeese State University. She has dedicated her career to serving the students and families of Vernon Parish.

In announcing her appointment, the Vernon Parish School Board highlighted Bjornberg’s experience and longstanding commitment to education within the parish.

Bjornberg said she is honored to serve the Rosepine High School community and emphasized her belief that students should remain at the center of every decision.

She noted that Rosepine High School has an exceptional team committed to serving students and said that when students feel valued, supported and challenged, they thrive alongside the entire school community. Bjornberg also said she looks forward to continuing to make a positive impact while helping every student “Learn, Lead, and Soar.”

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The City of Leesville held its Swearing‑In Ceremony this morning at the Leesville Event Center, marking the official transition into the new municipal term. The event was well attended and hosted by Mayor Rick Allen, who welcomed guests and introduced the incoming leadership.

City Judge Elvin Fontenot administered the Oath of Office to Honorable LaFonda Stelly, who will begin her term as Mayor of Leesville tomorrow, July 1, 2026.

Vernon Parish Clerk of Court Jeff Skidmore administered the Oath of Office to all City Council Members, listed by district below. Their terms also begin July 1, 2026.

At‑Large

• Phillip Hunt
• Rodney G. Wells

District 1

• Chris Robertson

District 2

• Fredrick “Fred” Carter

District 3

• William H. Anderson

District 4

• Jessica Herring

The City congratulates all officials as they prepare to begin their service to the citizens of Leesville and extends appreciation to the community for its strong turnout and support at this morning’s ceremony.

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Residents across Vernon Parish can expect another week of hot and humid summer weather, with afternoon showers and thunderstorms remaining a daily possibility through early next week.

Wednesday will begin with patchy morning fog before giving way to mostly sunny skies. Afternoon temperatures will climb into the mid-90s, with a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms developing later in the day. Winds will remain light, becoming southeast around 5 mph during the afternoon.

A 50 percent chance of evening showers and thunderstorms continues Wednesday night before skies become partly cloudy. Overnight lows will fall into the mid-70s with light and variable winds.

Thursday will be sunny with highs in the lower 90s. Another round of scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms is possible, with rain chances around 30 percent. Mostly clear skies return Thursday night with lows in the mid-70s.

Friday will be mostly clear and hot, with highs reaching the mid-90s before temperatures settle back into the mid-70s overnight.

Independence Day is expected to be sunny and hot with highs in the mid-90s. A 30 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms could briefly interrupt outdoor celebrations, while heat index values may climb as high as 105 degrees. Saturday night will be partly cloudy before becoming mostly clear, with lows in the mid-70s.

Rain chances increase again Sunday as mostly sunny skies give way to scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. Highs will reach the lower 90s with a 50 percent chance of rain. Skies will gradually clear Sunday night as temperatures fall into the mid-70s.

The unsettled summer pattern continues Monday with mostly sunny skies and another 50 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Highs will remain in the lower 90s, while heat index values could once again reach 105 degrees. Monday night will become partly cloudy before clearing.

Tuesday will finish the forecast period with mostly sunny skies, highs in the mid-90s and a 40 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Heat index values are expected to remain near 105 degrees.

Residents spending time outdoors this week, especially during the Independence Day holiday, should stay hydrated, limit prolonged exposure during the hottest part of the day and keep an eye on the forecast for developing afternoon thunderstorms.

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The Vernon Parish School Board has announced the appointment of Cheree’ Kay-Atkins as the district’s new Director of Early Childhood Programs.

Kay-Atkins brings nearly 30 years of experience in education to the position. During her career with Vernon Parish Schools, she has served as a teacher, coach, gifted special education teacher, assistant principal and coordinator/supervisor before being named director.

According to the Vernon Parish School Board, Kay-Atkins has dedicated her career to teaching children, serving families and building meaningful relationships throughout the parish.

In her new role, Kay-Atkins will oversee the district’s Early Childhood Department, including Head Start and Birth to Five programs. She said the department’s mission is centered on serving children and families through strong relationships, noting that positive connections between educators, students and families help everyone succeed.

The school board also recognized Kay-Atkins for her leadership, describing her approach as one rooted in faith, compassion and servant leadership.

Kay-Atkins is married to Roger Atkins and is the mother of Summer Adair and Dr. Spring Matthews.

School officials congratulated Kay-Atkins on her appointment and expressed confidence that her leadership will help strengthen early childhood education opportunities while providing young learners with a strong foundation for lifelong success.

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As Louisiana families prepare to celebrate Independence Day and America’s 250th year, the Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM) is urging residents to put safety first and use fireworks responsibly.

Fireworks remain a leading cause of preventable holiday injuries each year. Sparklers can reach temperatures above 2,000 degrees, creating a serious burn risk, especially for children.

According to 2025 data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks misuse and malfunction were linked to at least 15 deaths and an estimated 13,000 emergency department-treated injuries. Sparklers accounted for an estimated 1,300 injuries. People ages 15 to 24 were injured most often, with burns to the hands, fingers and head among the most common injuries.

More than 660 permitted fireworks stands will operate statewide this season, with retail sales allowed through 11:59 p.m. July 5. Louisiana law requires fireworks vendors to be licensed and permitted through the SFM and to sell only where fireworks are authorized.

“Public fireworks displays remain the safest way to celebrate,” said DPS Principal, Assistant Chief Bryan J Adams. “If you choose to use consumer fireworks at home, plan ahead, follow safety guidelines and buy only from licensed vendors.”

To help prevent injuries, the Office of State Fire Marshal recommends:

Check local burn bans and avoid fireworks during dry or windy conditions

Use fireworks in open areas at least 200 feet from buildings, vehicles and flammable materials

Never allow children to handle fireworks; consider safer alternatives such as glow sticks or public displays

Never use homemade, altered or illegal fireworks and always follow label instructions

Do not use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs

Light one firework at a time and keep a hose or bucket of water nearby

Soak used fireworks before disposal and never place dry fireworks in the trash

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The Vernon Parish School District has earned Cognia Systems Accreditation with Distinction for 2026, receiving national recognition for its commitment to educational excellence and continuous improvement.

According to the Vernon Parish School Board, the distinction is awarded to school systems that demonstrate high standards in leadership, teaching and ongoing efforts to improve student outcomes.

Cognia is a nonprofit organization that accredits schools and school systems across the United States and internationally. Systems that receive Accreditation with Distinction have met rigorous performance standards through an evaluation process that examines leadership effectiveness, learning environments and the district’s commitment to continuous improvement.

The recognition highlights the Vernon Parish School District’s efforts to maintain high-quality educational practices while fostering an environment focused on student success and organizational excellence.

District officials announced the achievement on June 26, noting that the accreditation reflects the dedication of educators, staff and school leaders across Vernon Parish.

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The 46th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival will be held on Saturday July 18, in the air–conditioned Prather Coliseum located at 220 S. Jefferson Street on the Northwestern State University campus in Natchitoches. The festival’s curated showcase of Louisiana folk musicians, food vendors and traditional crafts persons will open at 9 a.m. with live entertainment scheduled for 9:45 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The family-oriented festival is fully wheelchair accessible. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets are $10 at the door for all events or $6 for an evening pass to all events after 5 p.m. 

In honor of the 2026 Festival theme, “America the Beautiful,” the Festival will feature the traditional music of the nation – blues, gospel, Cajun, Celtic, country, bluegrass and zydeco on three stages of music as well as in the Magale Recital Hall. Music and dance headliners include Cajun bands Kevin Naquin and the Ossun Playboys and Poisson Rouge, zydeco band Geno Delafose and French Rockin’ Boogie, blues artists the Wayne “Blue” Burns Band and the Snake Doctors, western swing and classic country artists Gal Holiday and the Honky Revue, the Rising Dragon Lion Dance Team, bluegrass group Catahoula Drive, gospel groups the Amazing! Rhythm Disciples and the Winnsboro Easter Rock Ensemble and dance performances by Native Nations Intertribal, the Rising Dragon Lion Dance Team, the Thistle Dancers and Pipers and Fijian traditional dance by the Rokobou Family. In addition will be a special appearance by Kovanda’s Czech Band which will accompany the Louisiana Czech Heritage Dancers. The festival also includes numerous food vendors offering traditional Louisiana cuisine. Outdoor activities feature demonstrations of traditional blacksmithing, Dutch oven cooking and a child-friendly hands-on demonstration of a 19th century wash day. 

More than 80 crafts vendors have been invited to display and discuss their traditional work with festival patrons. Craftspeople are expected to display beadwork, baskets, cowhide chair covers, alligator jewelry, Pysanky eggs, Native American crafts and pottery. Other expected craftspeople will display needlework, wood carvings, handmade toys and dolls, paintings, sculpture, homemade soap, spinning and weaving, handcrafted knives, handmade brooms, walking sticks, folk art quilts and more. 

The Festival will include a Gumbo Cook-Off, in which professionals and hobbyists alike can compete in one of the multiple categories and demonstrate their cooking skills in any of three categories, Seafood, Poultry Plus and People’s Choice. All gumbo must be cooked on-site, with no commercial or pre-made roux allowed. Poultry, meat, seafood, rice and broth or stock may be prepared in advance or on-site and canned broth is allowed. Registration and the Cooks’ Meeting will take place at 8:00 a.m. Tasting and judging will begin at 12:30 p.m. with winners announced at 3:15 p.m. There is no fee to compete in the Cook-Off. 

The Annual Louisiana State Fiddle Championship will be held at 1:30 p.m. in the Magale Recital Hall. There will be a non-championship class and a championship class. A twin fiddle category will also be held. Registration is at noon in the first-floor foyer outside Magale Recital Hall. The Fiddle Championship winner will perform on the main stage at Prather Coliseum at 5 p.m. 

The festival includes several opportunities for patrons to engage directly with Louisiana folk culture. Free dance lessons include clogging or flatfoot dancing with Clancey Stewart, Celtic dance taught by the Thistle Dancers and Pipers and Cajun and zydeco dancing taught by the Cajun French Music Association Dance Troupe. Interactive activities include dancing with the Louisiana Czech Heritage Dancers and Native Nations Intertribal. 

“The festival bridges the distance between artists and the festival patrons, thus breaking the artificial barriers between artists and audience,” said Dr. Shane Rasmussen, director of the festival and NSU’s Louisiana Folklife Center. “Rather than watching from the sidelines, everyone who takes part in these activities will share and engage in Louisiana’s rich culture.” 

KidFest will be available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kidfest is an area dedicated to child-friendly activities and is a fun way for children to examine their own cultural and family traditions as well as those from around the state. 

Narrative sessions will be held in the festival N-Club Room from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature presentations on the making of the first sinker cypress fiddle, traditional carding, spinning and weaving, Fijian traditional culture, Louisiana foodways and heritage language revitalization. In addition will be music informances on Cajun music with bands Kevin Naquin and the Ossun Playboys and Poisson Rouge. ASL interpretation, assistive listening devices and audio description for these cultural discussions will be made available upon prior request by July 10.  

This year also features several pre-Festival events which are free and open to the general public. A Visit with the Bagpipe will be held at 2 p.m. on July 11 at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches. Attendees at this free workshop will learn the basics of traditional Celtic bagpipe and drumming, as well as Highland dance. The workshop will also feature a Celtic music and dance performance by the Thistle Dancers and Pipers. A second free pre-festival event will be a music and dance performance by Native Nations Intertribal at 6 p.m. on July 17 at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. Members of Native Nations Intertribal will also engage in a discussion of their traditions with anthropologist Dr. Hiram “Pete” Gregory, an expert on Southeastern Native American tribes and culture. 

For a full schedule of events, online registration forms to participate in the Louisiana State Fiddle Championship and the Gumbo Cook-Off or to make a donation contact the Louisiana Folklife Center at (318) 357-4332, email folklife@nsula.edu or go to nsula.edu/folklife/. 

Support for the Festival is provided by grants from the Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc., the Louisiana Division of the Arts Decentralized Arts Fund Program, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, 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 will not necessarily represent those of the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities.  

The festival is sponsored by Alliance Compressors, Atmos Energy, C&H Precision Machining, City Bank, Cleco, Evans Family, LLC, the Harrington Law Firm, Natchitoches Wood Preserving Company, Ronnie’s Auto Glass and Collision Center and Young Estate, LLC. 

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Have you ever questioned why you’re here? Ever wondered, ‘what am I supposed to be doing with my time on this Earth?’

Each of us has a calling but it may take a while to discover what it is. As a child, I questioned a lot of things that took place during my younger years, especially as I started school. 

It became very apparent that the classroom was going to be a challenge. The biggest problem was that I had no guidance, no one to make sure I did my homework or that I even got up every day to go to school.

But there was one day in my life that I will never forget. It was the day they had Little League baseball tryouts. Even though I was not old enough to play Little League, I still showed up with glove in hand and ready to show anyone that I could play this game. 

I rode my bike up the street to a local ballpark where the tryouts were taking place. I hopped off my bike and ran onto the field and got in the first line of players I saw as they were taking ground balls and throwing them back to a coach. 

When my turn came around, the coach hit the ball to me, and I scooped it up and fired it back at the coach. I’ll never forget his reaction as he waived me over to talk to him. Then he uttered words that I will never forget. 

“Son, I don’t think you’re old enough to play Little League, but I can tell you one thing for sure. You’re going to be one heck of a player when you get older.”

Disappointment that I was not eligible to play baseball yet really hit me hard mentally. Finally, there was something that I knew I was good at! Baseball was going to give me purpose! 

It would be on a baseball field that I would shine. It would be through baseball that my confidence and self-esteem would soar. The baseball field was where I was supposed to be!

School on the other hand would continue to be difficult as I was diagnosed with dyslexia going into the second grade. But because of a couple of great teachers by the name of Mrs. Mickey Sinclair and Mrs. Elwanda Carpenter, my world in the classroom was turned around.

From the third grade on, school curriculum would not be as challenging, but I had to work hard to make passing grades. Studying was a necessary evil in order for me to do good in school and get to play sports.  

My parents understood school was a challenge but expected nothing short of A’s and B’s. C’s were not acceptable and there would be consequences for bringing home one. Mother would threaten to pull me out of sports when a C appeared on a report card. 

But again, I figured out early in life that sports, especially baseball, would be my purpose in life. It would be my calling and my saving grace for me as person. It gave me a feeling of confidence that nothing else could. 

Today when I speak to youth, this is one of the topics I’ll discuss. No matter what it is, find that one thing you’re good at and make that your purpose. Make that the reason you get up every day. Make that your passion whether it’s sports, education, music or, maybe if you’re lucky, it’s bass fishing!

Life can offer us so many opportunities but it’s up to each of us to take advantage when those opportunities roll around. I truly believe that God has a purpose for each of us. 

It just might take some of us longer to figure out exactly what our purpose is, but isn’t that what life is all about? The journeyis the great adventure.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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Descartes said, “I think, therefore I am.”

Doug said, “I drive, therefore I am,” and honestly, I’m starting to trust my version more.

I spend so many hours with my body attached to a car that I’m basically a mobile Methodist. I know I20 like the back of my hand—every bump, every dip, every spot where my cell signal disappears as if it’s entering the Witness Protection Program. I know where law enforcement hides, waiting to catch those who treat the speed limit as a suggestion from a friend rather than a command from the state. I know exactly how far I can push the fuel light before I’m praying in tongues at the next exit. If you see me on the Interstate, give me a wave. I’ll wave back. I’m friendly like that.

Driving entertains me. I read bumper stickers like they’re sacred texts. If you see me tailgating, don’t worry—I’m not being aggressive; I’m just trying to discern whether your “Coexist” sticker is faded or ironic. And I’ve developed a spiritual gift: I can tell when someone is talking on the phone while driving. They always slow down. Always. It’s like the car senses the conversation and decides to meditate.

Today I was headed to Bossier City when the nice truck in front of me decided it was time for a midjourney spa treatment. He hit his windshield washer at 70 mph. At my following distance, his washer fluid became my washer fluid. A surprise baptism by RainX. I just smiled and thanked God for the improvisational rain shower. Louisiana weather is unpredictable, but apparently so are Louisiana drivers.

Now here’s where the sermon sneaks in.

My actions can change your attitude, and your attitude interprets my actions. That’s the whole ballgame.

I could’ve gotten mad. I could’ve imagined he did it on purpose. I could’ve turned on my wipers and smeared my windshield into a Monet painting. Or I could interpret it factually: I was following too closely behind a man with a dirty windshield who needed to see better. Or I could interpret it spiritually: God’s grace falls on the just, the unjust, and the guy behind the truck who wasn’t expecting a windshield blessing.

We don’t live in a vacuum. Our actions splash onto the people behind us—sometimes literally. That’s why Scripture tells us to be careful how we walk. We don’t want to trip someone else up. But the other side is just as important: I’m not responsible for what you do to me, but I am responsible for what I let your actions do inside me.

The world is small. The road is shared. And whether we like it or not, we’re all windshield washers for somebody.

So drive kindly. Live kindly. And if you must baptize the car behind you, at least use the good fluid.

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July 1 marks the anniversary of one of the most significant events in American history—the beginning of the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863.

Fought over three days in and around Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the battle became the largest and deadliest engagement of the American Civil War. More than 160,000 Union and Confederate soldiers converged on the small town, where intense fighting ultimately resulted in an estimated 51,000 soldiers killed, wounded, captured or missing.

The battle began on July 1 as Confederate and Union forces unexpectedly encountered one another outside Gettysburg. As additional troops arrived throughout the day, the fighting intensified and eventually spread across the surrounding hills and ridges.

The conflict reached its climax on July 3 with Pickett’s Charge, a massive Confederate assault against the center of the Union line. The attack failed, forcing Confederate General Robert E. Lee to retreat south, ending his second and final invasion of the North.

Historians widely consider the Battle of Gettysburg a turning point in the Civil War. Lee’s defeat halted Confederate momentum, while the Union victory strengthened Northern morale and shifted the course of the conflict.

Just four months later, President Abraham Lincoln returned to Gettysburg to dedicate the Soldiers’ National Cemetery. During the ceremony, he delivered the Gettysburg Address, a brief speech that became one of the most enduring expressions of American democracy and the nation’s founding ideals.

Today, Gettysburg National Military Park preserves the battlefield, allowing millions of visitors each year to explore the site where one of the defining moments in United States history began on July 1, 1863.

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For 20 years Cris had worked as a commercial fisherman and a dockworker.  On this particular cold March afternoon, Cris had some time on his hands.  He had just returned from working on a ship in the Bahamas and was waiting to catch another ship which would take him to yet another port city.  He never caught that ship.  While he waited, Cris walked over the frozen, snow-covered ground to King Street, the port city’s main hub of activity.  Cris carried a pound stick, a tool of his trade.  A pound stick was a large stick used to strike or pound a ship’s deck to summon crew to their stations and for setting the pacing for others while they were loading and unloading a ship’s cargo.  When not on duty, Cris and other sailors used their pound sticks as walking sticks.  

Shopkeepers on King Street recognized that something other than the comings and goings of regular commerce was happening in front of the government building nearby.  Shopkeeper Edward Payne stood in his entry doorway gazing at the large crowd trying to understand the situation.  Edward heard the voices of men and boys yelling at each other in the crowd.  Suddenly, chaos erupted.  The men and boys threw rocks, hard-packed snowballs, and anything else they could get their hands on at the nine guards protecting the government building.  Some of the sailors swung their pound sticks at the guards.  Whether Cris swung his stick has never been confirmed, but he was in the front when the guards opened fire.  The gunfire lasted for only a few seconds.  

Yells of anger turned into a mixture of moans of pain and shrieks of terror.  51-year-old Sam Gray, a rope maker, was shot in the head and died instantly.  17-year-old Sam Maverick, an apprentice, was shot in the stomach and died the following day.  49-year-old James Caldwell, a mate on a ship, was shot twice in the back and died in the street.  30-year-old Patrick Carr, leather worker, was shot in the hip and died nine days later.  Cris was shot twice in the chest and died instantly.

Others were injured but survived.  Shopkeeper Edward Payne’s arm was broken when he was struck by a shot as he stood in his shop’s doorway.  John Green, a tailor, was shot in his thigh.  Robert Patterson, a sailor, was shot through his right arm.  A youth named David Parker was shot in his thigh.  Two 17-year-old boys, Christopher Monk and John Clark, both apprentices on ships, were shot; Monk in the back and Clark in his abdomen.  All but Monk recovered from their wounds.  Monk’s wound was extremely severe, left him disabled, and led to his early death ten years later.  

Most citizens in Great Britain are unaware of this altercation, but the British government officially referred to it as the Incident on King Street.  Colonists initially called it the Bloody Massacre.  The world now refers to the Incident on King Street as the Boston Massacre.  

Sources:

1.     The Boston Gazette, March 12, 1770, p.1-3.

2.     “The bloody massacre perpetrated in King Street Boston on March 5th 1770 by a party of the 29th Regt.,” Library of Congress, accessed June 28, 2027, https://www.loc.gov/item/2008661777/.

3.     “What was the Boston Massacre?” Boston Massacre Historical Society, accessed June 28, 2027, https://www.bostonmassacre.net/index.html.

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Vernon Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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

June 23, 2026

Calvin Simmons, age 65, of Pitkin, was arrested and charged with one count of Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic. Bond has not been set and Simmons remains in the VPSO jail.

June 24, 2026

Amarion Davis, age 19, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Battery of a Police Officer. Bond has not been set and Davis remains in the VPSO jail.

June 25, 2026

Shawn McAlister, age 24, of Pitkin, was arrested and charged with one count of Second Degree Battery. Bond has not been set and McAlister remains in the VPSO jail.

Britten Thompson, age 24, of Oakdale, was arrested and charged with one count of Second Degree Battery. Bond has not been set and Thompson remains in the VPSO jail.

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

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The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam targeting registered sex offenders in the parish.

The sheriff’s office said it has received numerous reports of callers using the phone number 337-231-8085 and claiming to represent the State Sex Offender Registry Office.

According to the sheriff’s office, the caller tells registered offenders they are noncompliant and must immediately pay $5,000 to avoid arrest on a warrant.

Authorities said the callers appear to be obtaining information about registered offenders online. The sheriff’s office emphasized that the calls are a scam and advised anyone who receives one not to provide personal information or send money electronically.

Recipients are urged to hang up immediately and block the number. The sheriff’s office said money sent to the scammers may not be recoverable.

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After 12 weeks of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and clinical experience, six graduates from the National EMS Academy Alexandria campus have earned their EMT certifications and are ready to answer the call across the Central Louisiana region.  

The Alexandria campus’ new graduates are:

• Emily Hamilton of Woodworth
• Thomas Lewis of Shreveport
• Alfonso Ruiz Rodríguez of Leesville
• Samantha Scaife of Many
• Ayana Slaughter of Alexandria 
• Aidan Eaves of Monroe 

As newly certified EMTs, these graduates are prepared to provide emergency medical care, support patients in critical situations, and serve communities throughout the region. Their training has equipped them with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively in emergencies. 

“Becoming an EMT takes a lot of hard work and commitment,” said National EMS Academy Director TJ Dronet. “We’re proud of what these graduates have accomplished and excited to see them begin serving their communities.” 

Upcoming Opportunities: The next class registration is currently open, with class beginning on July 13. Orientation sessions are held on June 30 or July 1 to explore career pathways for EMTs and paramedics. 

Learn More & Register: becomeamedic.com

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Freshman Connection introduces incoming students to academic programs and campus resources while serving civilian and military families

NATCHITOCHES – Students from west Louisiana gathered at NSU-Leesville/Fort Polk on June 24 for Freshman Connection, where incoming students explored academic opportunities and prepared for the transition to college while remaining close to home.

The one-day orientation program connected students with academic advisors, campus resources and fellow students while providing a first look at life as a Demon. Current students serving as Freshman Connectors guided participants through the program and shared their experiences at Northwestern State University.

Gracie Villemarette of St. Francisville served as a Freshman Connector during the program. Villemarette said Freshman Connection allows incoming students to make connections before they begin classes by scheduling classes, meeting faculty and staff and learning about the resources available to them. “They’re able to see the specific campus that they’re going to be on, and it’s just a really great opportunity for students,” she said.

Freshman Connection places students in small groups led by current Northwestern State students who help incoming freshmen navigate the transition from high school to college. Participants also meet with academic advisors and register for fall classes.

Villemarette said the Leesville campus offers a welcoming environment for students who want to stay close to home while earning their degree. “Leesville campus is very much a community. As soon as we walked in this morning, it was nothing but smiles and friendly faces,” she said. “You have a support system here, and you have amazing faculty and staff that are here to help you. I think it’s honestly a really great opportunity to be close to home but still get a degree.”

Incoming student Noah Evans of Anacoco, a graduate of Anacoco High School, said the convenience of attending NSU-Leesville/Fort Polk close to home made it an easy choice. “The number one thing for me is just how close it is and the overall convenience of it, and then the staff. They’ve all been nothing but kind,” he said. “It’s one of the more affordable colleges. I’ve heard nothing but good things about the education, and the staff is really kind and helpful.”

Northwestern State University began offering courses at Fort Polk in 1969 and moved to its current 160-acre site in 1975. Located along Highway 467, NSU-Leesville/Fort Polk serves Vernon, Beauregard and Sabine parishes and supports both civilian and military-connected students through face-to-face, online and compressed video instruction.

Northwestern State has been designated a Military Friendly School and offers services and degree options designed to support active-duty service members, veterans and military dependents, according to the university.

Freshman Connection sessions continue throughout the summer. The final session on the Natchitoches campus is scheduled for July 9.

Information about Freshman Connection and orientation programs is available through Northwestern State’s Office of First Year Experience and Student Engagement at nsula.edu/fye or by calling (318) 357-5559.

Information on Northwestern State’s Leesville campus is available at nsula.edu/about/campuses-directions/leesville.

Registration for the fall semester will continue through Aug. 16. Information about registration is available at vic.nsula.edu.

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The Cenla Mental Health Workforce Accelerator Program Grant funded by The Rapides Foundation and in consultation with the National Council for Mental Wellbeing is accepting applications from candidates and placement sites in nine parishes: Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon and Winn. Applications will be accepted until June 30.

The program helps bridge the gap between a master’s degree in mental health and licensure in Louisiana and supports mental health and community support systems in central Louisiana. It’s administered through Northwestern State University’s Gallaspy Family College of Education and Human Development. 

Eligible candidatesare master’s level mental health professionals interested in pursuing Louisiana licensure as either a Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Social Worker. The program supports candidates through licensing exam preparation, licensure application fees, professional development and mentoring by content experts in counseling and social work. The program also covers the cost of candidate’s clinical supervision if the employer does not provide it.

Eligible placement sites are employers offering mental health services to children, adults and families living in central Louisiana. The program supports placement sites through job placement assistance and partial reimbursement of salaries for up to two years. 

“We look forward to reviewing applications and to welcoming our next cohort of approved candidates and placement sites,” said Steven Gruesbeck, MS, NCC, executive director of Cenla Mental Health Workforce Accelerator Program at NSU.

Joe Rosier, President and CEO of The Rapides Foundation, said the Foundation’s Board of Trustees created the Cenla Mental Health Workforce Accelerator Program Grant in 2025 to help address the critical shortage of licensed mental health professionals in Central Louisiana. The four-year grant was awarded to NSU to carry out this important work.

“The program builds on our longstanding commitment to strengthening the region’s healthcare workforce, particularly in nursing, behavioral health and allied health fields,” Rosier said. “By supporting mental health professionals on their path to licensure, this program will help expand access to quality behavioral health services throughout our nine-parish service area.”

“Social workers are desperately needed and highly sought after in rural Louisiana to meet the needs of individuals with diminished access to services,” said Byron D. McKinney, MSW, LCSW-BACS, an associate professor of social work at NSU and social work mentor for the program.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Provisional Licensed Professional Counselors (PLPCs) beginning their licensure journey and a win for our region,” said Dr. Gerra Perkins, program coordinator for NSU’s Master of Arts in Counseling program and counseling mentor for the program. “Increasing the number of licensed mental health professionals and improving access to mental health care brings a host of benefits for individuals and families in our communities, including connection and resilience, economic well-being and better health outcomes.”

“By removing obstacles and providing relevant support, we will increase the number of fully licensed professionals in Central Louisiana by 2029,” said Dr. Susan Campbell, associate professor of social work at NSU and associate director of the program.

More information and applications are available at nsula.edu/mental-health-workforce/

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Hazel Marie Brandon
Arrangements TBA

Vernon Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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A New Llano man was arrested June 11 following an investigation into a social media video that allegedly showed a raccoon being unlawfully killed.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division arrested Justin D. Ford, 37, of New Llano, on charges of aggravated cruelty to animals, hunting without a basic hunting license, taking wild quadrupeds using illegal methods and unlawful posting of criminal activity for notoriety and publicity.

LDWF’s Pineville Office received multiple complaints May 28 about a video reportedly posted May 24. The video allegedly showed an individual striking a raccoon with a large rock while the animal was in a creek at night. The video was later removed from the social media platform.

Agents identified Ford as the individual shown in the video and obtained an arrest warrant through the 30th Judicial District Court, according to LDWF.

During a June 11 traffic stop conducted by the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office, Ford was contacted by LDWF agents and allegedly admitted to throwing the rock at the raccoon. He was arrested and booked into the Vernon Parish Detention Center.

Aggravated cruelty to animals carries a fine of $5,000 to $25,000 and one to 10 years in jail. Taking wild quadrupeds using illegal methods carries a fine of $250 to $500 and up to 90 days in jail. Hunting without a basic hunting license carries a fine of up to $350, while unlawful posting of criminal activity for notoriety and publicity carries a fine of up to $500 and up to six months in jail.

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

June 18, 2026

Christina McVay, age 48, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Resisting an Officer with Force or Violence – Aggravated Assault, one count of Accessory After the Fact, and one count of Battery of a Police Officer. Bond was set at $ 8000.00. McVay posted bond and was released.

Tony Scott Langley, age 38, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Resisting an Officer with Force or Violence – Aggravated Assault and one count of Accessory After the Fact. Bond was set at $5500.00. Langley remains in the VPSO jail.

Richard Brandon Gunter, age 48, of Pitkin, was arrested and charged with one count of Aggravated Assault with a Firearm and one count of Criminal Damage to Property. Bond has not been set and Gunter remains in the VPSO jail.

Tiffany Freeze, age 29, of Anacoco, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant. Bond has not been set and Freeze remains in the VPSO jail.

Ronald J. Matthews, age 46, of Leesville, was arrested on an out of jurisdiction Bench Warrant from the Shreveport Police Department. Matthews remains in the VPSO jail awaiting transfer to Shreveport.

Coby J. Midkiff, age 24, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Resisting an Officer and four outstanding Bench Warrants. Bond has not been set and Midkiff remains in the VPSO jail.

Andrew Thomas Flora, age 24, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Resisting an Officer, one count of Aggravated Assault upon a Police Officer, and one outstanding Bench Warrant. Bond has not been set and Flora remains in the VPSO jail.

June 19, 2026

Melissa Ann Newman, age 32, of Leesville, was arrested on an out of jurisdiction warrant from Beauregard Parish. Newman was transferred to the Beauregard Parish Jail.

June 22, 2026

Stacey Lauren Dorris, age 41, of Rosepine, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant. Bond was set at $ 3500.00. Dorris remains in the VPSO jail.

June 23, 2026

Jessica Marie Gross, age 42, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic, one count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and one count of Possession of a Firearm or Carrying of a Concealed Weapon by a Felon. Bond has not been set and Gross remains in the VPSO jail.

Sandra Diane Wilson, age 51, of Anacoco, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant. Bond has not been set and Wilson remains in the VPSO jail.

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

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