Friday, June 6, during the noontime hour, local firefighters responded to a structure fire in the 600 block of Belton Loop in Vernon Parish. A wood frame home was actively burning when responders arrived.
Fire-fighting personnel were able to extinguish the blaze before the home was completely destroyed.
Local responders included Sundown FD, Caney FD, Evans VFD, Leesville FD, New Llano FD, Knight FD, Burr Ferry VFD, VPSO, and Acadian Ambulance.
The Vernon Parish Journal recently visited with Don Haymon, Vernon Parish Fire District spokesperson, and Leesville Fire Chief, Bobby Hooks. They wanted to publicly thank the voters of Vernon Parish for their votes on May 3, on the tax millages dedicated to fire-fighting protection in Vernon Parish.
The support of the voters is already paying dividends to Vernon residents. Vernon’s fire rating has changed from a 7 to a strong 6, with the Property Insurance Association of Louisiana. This indicator is essential to your fire insurance payments. The recent reclassification of the rating will translate to lower insurance rates for home and business owners. EDITORS NOTE: Make sure you get what you deserve on your insurance rates.
Haymon, Hooks and the Fire District Board have been prioritizing the needs of the district. They include replacing trucks, moving forward with training facilities, improving existing stations, and replacing or upgrading equipment.
Hooks just returned from a trip to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where he was looking at a replacement truck for the parish. The pumper truck has a rescue body and can hold more equipment. The new parish truck is the first of many upgrades for the Vernon Fire District.
The Board will continue to evaluate and prioritize district needs, keeping decisions in the best interests of the taxpayers. Hooks and Haymon thanked the voters on behalf of the over 250 paid and volunteer fire-fighters in Vernon Parish.
Brad Dison, a lifelong resident of Bienville Parish and writer whose history column “Remember This?” runs weekly in the Journal, has released a new book about Sheriff Henderson Jordan’s pursuit and capture of notorious gangsters Bonnie and Clyde.
“The Trap: The Untold Story of Sheriff Henderson Jordan and the Final Pursuit of Bonnie and Clyde” is now available for purchase at www.HendersonJordan.com.
“There has been more fiction than fact written about their crime spree,” Dison said. “For 91 years, people have assumed that former Texas Ranger Frank Hamer used his superior tracking skills to locate Bonnie and Clyde. This is another bit of fiction. It was Bienville Parish Sheriff Henderson Jordan who located two of their hideouts in Bienville Parish. It was he who set three traps to capture the gang. It was he who used an ‘undercover man’ and a ‘man on the inside’ to determine where they would be on that fateful morning of May 23, 1934. It was he who led the ambush posse and ended their violent crime spree.”
The Jubilee Park Committee presents Juneteenth: A Freedom Celebration, Saturday, June 14, from 10am-2pm, at the Martin Luther King Center in Leesville.
The event is free and open to the public. The MLK Center is located at 1003 North Gladys Street in Leesville. Vendors are welcome to set up for no charge. Contact Ramona Bonner, 337-509-7519, for more information.
Bring the family for entertainment, food and beverages, music, and kids’ games.
The Louisiana Sports Writers Association recently released the names of softball and baseball players selected for All-State post season honors in Classes C & B. Vernon Parish was well represented.
Class C Boys First Team Parker Alexander/Hornbeck Gunner Blackwell/Simpson
Honorable Mention Trace Fox/Hornbeck
Class C Girls Honorable Mention Daisy Jeane/Evans
Class B Boys Coach of the Year J.C.Holt/Pitkin
Outstanding Player Gavin Holt
First Team Cy Johnson/Pitkin Lincon Stephens/Pitkin
Luke Williams/Hicks Kyle Scott/Anacoco
Honorable Mention Gage James/Pitkin Dayne Martin/Pitkin
Micah Merchant/Hicks Caleb Taylor/Anacoco
Class B Girls First Team Ava Davis/Anacoco Courtlyn Dousay/Hicks
Honorable Mention Brooklyn Bryant/Anacoco Katie Quinn/Hicks
Tori Haymon/Anacoco
Classes AA through 5A will be released in the next few days by the LSWA.
The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your way at the end of the month.
Three days of festivities are approaching beginning Thursday June 26 through Saturday June 28 for the 2025 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.
The LSHOF’s Class of 2025 will be enshrined Saturday night June 28 at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 66th Induction Celebration. The final event is already full with a waiting list and standing room only tickets available.
The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 26, with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m., free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street.
The Friday, June 27 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2025 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert on the downtown riverbank stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event that is approaching capacity.
The slate on Saturday, June 28 kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at LaSportsHall.com.
At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.
Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.
The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255.
The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.
The Class of 2025 is headlined by two men pivotal in LSU’s 2003 football national championship – coach Nick Saban and Andrew Whitworth, a champion at West Monroe High School, LSU and in the NFL during a 16-year pro career. More sparkle is provided by pro basketball All-Stars Danny Granger and Vickie Johnson, the state’s winningest all-time college baseball coach Joe Scheuermann and Danny Broussard, one of the nation’s most successful high school basketball coaches, in this year’s induction class.
It also includes LSU gymnastics great and NCAA individual champion April Burkholder, transformational Catholic-Baton Rouge high school football coach Dale Weiner and George “Bobby” Soileau, a four-time high school and 1956 NCAA boxing champion at LSU who also won a state crown as a football coach at his alma mater, Sacred Heart High School in Ville Platte.
LSU graduate Herb Vincent, now a longstanding associate commissioner of the Southeastern Conference, is receiving the Hall’s Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award with his enshrinement.
Also being honored: Ed Daniels, a generational television sports broadcaster in New Orleans, and Glenn Guilbeau, one of the nation’s more decorated sportswriters in a career that has seen him cover LSU, state college, high school and pro sports along with stories across the South and around the SEC. They are being inducted as recipients of the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism.
The 2025 Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors.
For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke, Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.
Summer is here, and there’s no better time to explore the legendary landscapes, local flavor, and small-town charm of Vernon Parish—proudly known as Louisiana’s Legend Country. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventures, air-conditioned escapes, or local finds, this summer is packed with things to do for every kind of explorer.
Hit the Water
Cool off and make a splash! With access to Anacoco Lake, Toledo Bend, Vernon Lake, Sabine River, and Toro Bayou, Vernon Parish is a haven for boating, kayaking, tubing, and some of the best fishing in the region.
https://vernonparish.org/outdoors_cat/fishing/
Soak in the Scenery
Get out in nature and experience the beauty of Kisatchie National Forest, where you might spot eagles nesting or catch other birds in flight. Don’t forget to check out the live eagle cam for a peek at this season’s hatchlings!
https://vernonparish.org/outdoors_cat/birding
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiTsPLDwyNU
Stay Cool Indoors
Beat the heat with indoor fun! Knock down some pins at Strike Zone Bowling Center, unwind with a spa day, or catch a local art exhibit or live theater show. Vernon Parish offers plenty of ways to relax and recharge indoors.
https://vernonparish.org/things-do-cat/indoors/
Shop Local Every Saturday
Stop by Leesville’s Third Street Market every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. for fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts. Don’t miss Second Saturday on June 14th—featuring extra fun for the whole family!
https://vernonparish.org/event/second-saturday-at-the-third-street-market/
Treat Yourself
From classic snowballs to frozen yogurt and shaved ice, you’ll find plenty of sweet spots to cool down around town. Pair it with a local meal from one of our beloved eateries to round out your day.
https://vernonparish.org/dining/
The City of Leesville presents a Christmas in July event at the Leesville Event Center on Nolan Trace Friday, July 18, Noon-8pm and Saturday, July 19, 10am-8pm.
Your family can enjoy an indoor ice-skating rink, food trucks, merchandise vendors, visits with Santa, and much more. The event is free and open to the public.
The City promises a great time indoors in the air conditioning for all who attend. For more information visit http://www.leesvillela.gov.
Funeral services for John Henry Johnson were held at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Fullerton Community Church with Reverend Tommy Powell officiating. Burial followed in Holly Springs Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Serving as pallbearers were Don Pollard Jr., Dominic Conner, James Hernandez, Randy Chris, James Travis Johnson, and Alfred Ray Johnson.
John Henry Johnson was born to James and Dollie Johnson on October 1, 1964. He passed from this life on June 3, 2025. John spent much of his life in the woods, whether that was being a log cutter for his work, or doing what he loved, which was hunting. John also had a passion for fishing. John had a deep love for his family and friends and especially loved spending time with them. He truly enjoyed his sisters’ cooking and loved to eat. John will be deeply missed by his friends and family.
John was preceded in death by his parents, James Huey Johnson and Dollie Johnson; brother, Donald Ray Johnson; sisters, Shirley Ann Perkins and Linda Sue Stebbins; and his brother-in-law, Paul Morrison.
Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Shayanna Marie Johnson (Tucker) of Oberlin; sisters, Wanda Marie Morrison, Wanda Jean Reed (Phillip), and Wanda Lou Johnson (James) all of Pitkin; three grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
JOHN HENRY JOHNSON
October 1, 1964 – June 3, 2025
Service: June 8, 2025, at Fullerton Community Church in Pitkin, Louisiana at 11:00 a.m.
WILLIAM BARTON
February 7, 1952 – June 1, 2025
Service: June 5, 2025, at Laurel Hill Baptist Church in LaCamp, Louisiana at 10:00 a.m.
LTC (R) DANIEL H. “DAN” KINSINGER
July 21, 1948 – June 6, 2025
Service: June 12, 2025, at Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Leesville at 10:00 a.m.
DANIEL LEE BARRINGTON
November 24, 1962 – June 10, 2025
Service: June 13, 2025, at East Leesville Baptist Church at 11:00 a.m.
Joseph Shannon Holton, age 48, of Leesville, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant for Probation Violation. Holton paid $490.50 in delinquent fees and was released.
Billy Ray Welch, age 31, of Leesville, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant for Probation Violation. Welch must pay $1353 in delinquent fees or serve 30 days in the parish jail. Welch remains in the Vernon Parish jail.
Trevor Rentschler, age 30, of Richmond, Virginia was arrested on a Commitment to Await Extradition warrant for the state of Virginia. Rentschler remains in the Vernon Parish jail awaiting extradition.
James Pitts, age 43, of Evans, was arrested on two outstanding Bench Warrants. Bond has not been set. Pitts remains in the Vernon Parish jail.
Bobby Ray Best, age 45, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Simple Burglary. Bond has not been set. Best remains in the Vernon Parish jail.
Samuel Isaiah Rougeau, age 31, of DeRidder, was arrested and charged with one count of Reckless Operation of a Vehicle, one count of Illegal Discharge of a Weapon, and one count of Disturbing the Peace. Bond was set at $29,381. Rougeau remains in the Vernon Parish jail with a detainer for the DeRidder Police Department.
Payton Ray Kay, age 30, of Leesville, was arrested on an outstanding Traffic Warrant. Bond was set at $695. Kay remains in the Vernon Parish jail.
Christian Holt, age 22, of Ft. Johnson, was arrested on a Commitment to Await Extradition warrant from the state of Mississippi. Holt remains in the Vernon Parish jail awaiting extradition.
Kara Wells, age 29, of Longview, TX, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant. Bond was denied. Wells remains in the Vernon Parish jail.
Payton Ray Kay, age 30, of Anacoco, was arrested and charged with one count of Domestic Abuse Battery. Bond was set at $25,000. Kay remains in the Vernon Parish jail.
ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.
The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office is seeking information on the theft of a 2019 LAMA 16’ black utility trailer, stolen from a residence on Holly Grove Road in Anacoco. The theft occurred between April 30 and May 31. If you have information contact VPSO at 337-238-1311.
Saturday evening, May 31, at approximately 10:30 p.m., fire departments from around the parish converged on the Southgate Plaza in Leesville in response to a structure fire. When the units arrived at the scene, a large storage building at the rear of the plaza was on fire.
The fire was contained and extinguished, but the interior of the building suffered major damage.
The Leesville FD, Sundown FD, New Llano FD, Vernon Sheriff’s Office and Acadian Ambulance were on the scene in response. The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s office will investigate the cause of the fire.
The Anacoco First Baptist Church invites the public to the Faith & Family Freedom Music Festival, Sunday, June 29.
Music begins at 4 p.m. and features the Erwins, Rhett Walker, the Jason Lovins Band, and five-time CMA Award winners, Shenandoah. This event is free and open to everyone. Event parking is available with shuttles to take festival goers to the concert area. The church is located at 4813 Port Arthur Avenue in Anacoco.
A variety of vendors will offer food, beverages and merchandise. The evening will end with one of the largest fireworks shows in Central Louisiana. You are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and wear comfortable clothing. For more information visit www.anacocofbc.org.
RELATED ACTIVITY
A fundraising Incrediball tournament will be held, Saturday, June 14 at the Anacoco Youth Fields on Greenhead Road. The entry fee is $200 per team. Proceeds will benefit the music festival. Enter your 10-person team (co-ed) by calling 337-353-3804.
The Village of Simpson invites the public to attend their Second Annual Red, White and Blue Festival on Saturday June 28. The festival is free to attend and super kid friendly. You will enjoy live music, vendors, a classic parade, food trucks and an entire area dedicated to the Kids Zone.
Vendors will set up at 9am on the grounds of Simpson High School. Potential vendors can contact Tracy Parker for information at 337-208-7752. Live DJ, “Big Daddy”, will hit the music from 1030-130 before live bands will take the stage to entertain.
Parade entries will gather at Simpson Baptist Church at 11am. The parade rolls through town at noon. Grab your lawn chairs and dress for comfort.
The Kids Zone features a 46’ obstacle course(WET) and a (WET) bounce house/slide combo. $10 armbands are good all day for these events. You may pay by cash, cash ap or Venmo. The Kids Zone will also feature a big arts/crafts station and games galore.
Live music begins at 2pm with the Old Man Band. Southern Country takes the stage at 4pm.
Food and drink needs will be handled by food trucks, including the 626 Lunchbox, Two Seven Five Smokehouse and Shellshocked.
Find information on Facebook on the Simpson Community Events Committee site.
The Louisiana Folklife Center at Northwestern State University will present the program “A Life of Zydeco: A Musical Informance with Chubby Carrier” on June 21 at 1 p.m. at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches. The event is free and open to the public.
Dr. Shane Rasmussen, professor of English and director of the Louisiana Folklife Center at Northwestern, will interview Carrier about the cultural significance of zydeco in Louisiana. Their discussion will include songs performed by Carrier on his accordion. Carrier will headline the 45th annual Natchitoches-NSU Louisiana Folklife Festival on July 19 in air-conditioned Prather Coliseum on the NSU campus.
A third-generation zydeco musician, Carrier began his music career in Louisiana dance halls playing accordion and drums in his father’s zydeco band from the age of 12. Carrier played drums with Terrance Simien from 1986 to 1989, and then formed his own band, Chubby Carrier and the Zydeco Swamp Band. The band has released a total of 11 albums since 1989. Carrier has performed at the Chicago Blues Festival, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and the Utrecht Blues Festival in Amsterdam, and has played with Santana, B.B. King, Travis Tritt and Buddy Guy. Carrier’s most recent album, “Zydeco Junkie,” was the 2010 Grammy winner for best zydeco or Cajun album.
Carrier was among the musicians recently featured on the CBS News program “60 Minutes” in a segment on Cajun and zydeco music.
The event is sponsored by the Louisiana Folklife Center. Support for the Festival is provided by grants from the Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc., the City of Natchitoches, Cleco, the Louisiana Division of the Arts Decentralized Arts Fund Program, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the Louisiana Office of Tourism, the Natchitoches Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, the Shreveport Regional Arts Council and the State of Louisiana.
The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities.
For more information, call the Louisiana Folklife Center at (318) 357-4332, email folklife@nsula.edu, or go to nsula.edu/folklife.
Summer is here, and there’s no better time to explore the legendary landscapes, local flavor, and small-town charm of Vernon Parish—proudly known as Louisiana’s Legend Country. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventures, air-conditioned escapes, or local finds, this summer is packed with things to do for every kind of explorer.
Hit the Water
Cool off and make a splash! With access to Anacoco Lake, Toledo Bend, Vernon Lake, Sabine River, and Toro Bayou, Vernon Parish is a haven for boating, kayaking, tubing, and some of the best fishing in the region.
https://vernonparish.org/outdoors_cat/fishing/
Soak in the Scenery
Get out in nature and experience the beauty of Kisatchie National Forest, where you might spot eagles nesting or catch other birds in flight. Don’t forget to check out the live eagle cam for a peek at this season’s hatchlings!
https://vernonparish.org/outdoors_cat/birding
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiTsPLDwyNU
Stay Cool Indoors
Beat the heat with indoor fun! Knock down some pins at Strike Zone Bowling Center, unwind with a spa day, or catch a local art exhibit or live theater show. Vernon Parish offers plenty of ways to relax and recharge indoors.
https://vernonparish.org/things-do-cat/indoors/
Shop Local Every Saturday
Stop by Leesville’s Third Street Market every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. for fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts. Don’t miss Second Saturday on June 14th—featuring extra fun for the whole family!
https://vernonparish.org/event/second-saturday-at-the-third-street-market/
Treat Yourself
From classic snowballs to frozen yogurt and shaved ice, you’ll find plenty of sweet spots to cool down around town. Pair it with a local meal from one of our beloved eateries to round out your day.
https://vernonparish.org/dining/
Last week I shared the story entitled, THE FIRST TIME I GOT IN TROUBLE IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. At that time you were invited to share your story of: “getting in trouble in elementary school.”
Today my friend Sharon is sharing her story with us:
We lived in Tinsman and Dad was the school principal. I was so excited about the first day of school that I just couldn’t wait to get there. Kids today would not believe it, but back then September mornings were very chilly. I had on a dress with a little sweater and I ran into Miss Benson’s first and second grade classroom and sat down. The second my bottom hit that cold wooden chair, I realized I had forgotten an important part of my attire.
I jumped up and ran back across the street with Miss Benson yelling at me, “Sharon O’Dell, you cannot just get up and run home even if your dad is principal!”
Miss Benson must have gone straight to my Dad’s office because as I ran back onto the school yard after donning my forgotten apparel, Dad was coming across the school yard toward the house. I waved at him and kept going to the classroom. He grinned and somehow immediately figured out what had happened and just turned around and went back to his office and the incident was never discussed!
Sharon Scott
Personal Note from Billy Crawford: Sharon’s Dad, Dr. James O’Dell, was our school Superintendent at Thornton School when I was a student there. He started a Boy Scout Troop 64 for all the boys when I was 12. It was a wonderful experience–so much fun and learning so much about the outdoors.
An Army Veteran of World War II, Dr. O’Dell purchased a huge old WW2 truck for us to travel around in. We were so proud when we read on the side TP 64 –thinking it stood for “Troop 64”–only to later learn it really stood for “Tire Pressure.”
Please consider sharing your memory of school with us, and thanks for joining in with over 130 other friends who are reading these stories. And please feel free to forward your copy to family members and friends.
FRANCES JOANN ADDISON WELDON
July 5, 1948 – May 30, 2025
Service: June 1, 2025, at Mitchell Cemetery in Anacoco at 3:30 p.m.
HENRY CLAY TOLIVER JR.
December 17, 1935 – May 27, 2025
Service: None announced
By Anna Puleo
LSU Manship School News Service
Gov. Jeff Landry signed a sweeping package of auto insurance reform bills Wednesday, promising to lower the cost of coverage in Louisiana by cracking down on what he calls “frivolous lawsuits” and strengthening oversight of the insurance industry.
Landry called the new auto insurance laws “the largest tort reform package, and effort made in the history of the state.” He said the goal was to take a measured approach by holding both insurers and litigants accountable for rising costs.
The signing came a week after Landry flexed his political muscle and forced one of the key bills through the Senate in a late-night vote.
The bill, House Bill 148, gives Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple more authority to reject “excessive” rate increases—power that Temple says he does not need.
Temple has downplayed the idea that Louisiana’s high premiums stem from weak regulatory power, instead pointing to legal abuse and a high number of minor injury claims.
“It’s a false claim that rates are high because the commissioner doesn’t have some magical power,” Temple said. “The problem in Louisiana is bodily injury claims and the legal system that encourages them.”
An amendment added by the governor’s supporters also requires insurance companies to make their rate filings public, a move some in the industry say could expose trade secrets.
Landry defended the change by pointing out that insurance commissioners in other Southern states, including Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida and others, have the power to reject excessive rate hikes.
He said HB148 brings Louisiana in line with our neighboring states and gives the Insurance Department more tools to protect consumers.
Auto insurance has been one of the most important—and contentious–issues in this spring’s legislative session. Political analysts say rising car insurance rates could pose a problem for Landry in a re-election campaign.
Landry has repeatedly said he plans to hold Temple accountable if rates do not drop under the new law.
In the past, legislators have blamed plaintiff’s lawyers and focused almost entirely on tort reform, claiming that caps on big court judgments would bring down auto insurance rates. But premiums have continued to increase, and Landry contended that greater oversight of premium rates is also needed.
Landry opened his news conference Wednesday by reflecting on last year’s efforts to reform home and property insurance in Louisiana. He acknowledged criticism for not accepting the entire package of legislative proposals at that time and pointed to another Republican governor, Ron DeSantis, who did that in Florida.
“Today Floridians are struggling, and their legislature is trying to roll back some of those recommendations,” Landry said, using the example to explain why Louisiana is taking a more measured path.
While Temple expressed skepticism about the need for HB148, he has supported the rest of the package, saying the legal reforms are necessary to stabilize the insurance market and bring rates down.
Landry referenced a report commissioned by the Legislature that included tort reform recommendations insurers said would lower rates.
“Still hopeful that by the end of the session, we will sign even more of those industry-specific recommendations that insurance companies asked for, and more importantly predicted, would lower rates,” Landry said.
Other bills in the package that the governor signed target who can file lawsuits, how much they can recover and what jurors can consider in injury cases:
● House Bill 434 raises the minimum threshold of medical costs that uninsured drivers must meet to claim medical expenses in court, from $15,000 to $100,000.
● House Bill 450 requires plaintiffs to prove their injuries were directly caused by the crash in question.
● House Bill 431 bars drivers found at least 51% responsible for a crash from collecting any damages. Currently, they can recover damages for the remaining 49%. Landry said business groups have long supported this change.
● House Bill 436, a controversial measure, prohibits undocumented immigrants injured in car accidents from collecting compensation for general damages.
● Senate Bill 231 allows jurors to consider the actual amounts paid for medical care, rather than the often-inflated billed amounts, in personal injury cases.
● House Bill 549 mandates a 5% insurance premium discount for commercial vehicles with dashboard cameras. “Having undisputed video evidence will reduce litigation, improve truck driver safety, and lower costs for everyone,” Landry said.
With bipartisan backing on several of the bills, Landry said the changes mark a major step toward improving Louisiana’s insurance climate and restoring fairness in the system.
“Over the last 50 days, the only side I and the legislators who supported this package of bills have been on is the people,” Landry said. “Our people are too good to be taken advantage of again and again.”
Luke Brandon, President & CEO of Merchants & Farmers Bank announces Reba Casey will be retiring after 36 years of service to Merchants & Farmers and the communities we serve. “Reba’s dedication and kindness has made a difference not only in our institution but our community as well. We wish her nothing but joy in this next chapter,” states Brandon.
Casey began her career with Merchants & Farmers in January 1989 as a Teller and during her time employed, she has worked as a Vault Teller, Teller Supervisor, and Receptionist at our Main Office. Reba was promoted to Cashier/Officer in December 2021.
Casey, a Vernon Parish resident for the last 38 years, has three children—Randy Jones, Danica Reibold, and Danny Casey III and seven grandchildren—Jesse, Jacob, Jeremiah, Jaylee, Faithlyn, Kadence, and Casey.
“I think everyone who starts their career, no matter how much they like what they do, looks forward to the day they can retire. Now after 36 years here at Merchants & Farmers, I finally made it to this day. I would like to thank the board members and bank officers who have given me the opportunity to serve this
community. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many wonderful customers and people in the community, and have worked with great employees. My retirement plans include spending time with family and friends, doing a little fishing, taking a few cruises, and deer hunting. Again, thank you all for making this day possible for me,” states Casey.
In operation since 1928, Merchants & Farmers Bank is an independent community bank headquartered in Leesville, Louisiana with eight full-service locations in seven cities. Among the first of Louisiana banks to establish online banking, Merchants & Farmers offers a variety of banking products and services.
By Billy Crawford
It didn’t take me long! Not one to waste any time, I got into trouble on the very first day of first grade!
It was September of ’52. My mother had walked me to the schoolhouse. Mrs. Roy Cook, a veteran teacher who I later learned to be both a wonderful person and an excellent educator, welcomed us at the classroom door. As I sat nearby, my mother and Mrs. Cook conversed. Mom was also a veteran, for I was the fourth and final child for whom she would go through this ritual.
Becoming somewhat bored, I began with my left hand rolling one of my new, freshly sharpened pencils from the groove carved into the top desk, rolling it down with my left hand and catching it with my right hand. With each roll, it made a pleasing little clicking sound. (Again, not to waste time, I was already working on my hand-eye coordination, which would later serve me well in athletics!) I continued this over and over while they discussed my future. Finally they completed the courteous conversation and Mom politely said goodbye. As soon as my mom vanished through the door, Mrs. Cook looked down at me and sternly said, “BILLY, PUT THAT PENCIL DOWN.”
Welcome to the real world!
After all these years I can remember not only the words that were spoken that day but also can summon up a vivid picture of it. Of course, now I can’t remember where I put the car keys. But I can remember Mrs. Cook’s command like it was yesterday!
One morning earlier this week I shared this memory with my wife Callie. Immediately, she then started telling me about the first time she got into trouble in elementary school. She then said, ” I think most people have a similar memory. Why don’t you share this with your family members and friends?”
I agreed! I thought I would give it a try. If you want to share your story, you could include your whole name, or first or last name only, or you could plead the fifth, using the line from my favorite detective television show “Dragnet”: “names have been changed to protect the innocent.”
Please send your stories to: billyecrawford@gmail.com
And for you “teacher’s pets” who never got into trouble, please share with us your secret?