The Simpson girls won the Regional Class C track title. They will defend their state title from last year next week in Baton Rouge
The Anacoco girls won the Regional Class B track title. They will compete at the state Class B meet in Baton Rouge next week.
Amaya Shines Rosepines Amaya Shine was lit up for the Region Two-2A track meet, run Tuesday in Lafayette. Shine won the 100-meter dash, the 200-meter dash(new school record), 4×200 meter relay and 4x 400 meter relay(new school record). Shine was namedthe Track MVP of the Regional meet. She will lead the Lady Eagles into the state meet in Baton Rouge.
Hicks Golfer Wins Shreveport Regional
Hicks High School golfer Micah Merchant will represent Vernon Parish in the Division IV State Golf Tournament on the Cane Row course in New Iberia, May 5&6. Merchant shot a 76 on Wednesday, April 30, on the Huntington Golf Club course in Shreveport. Merchant won the individual title by five strokes.
Leesville Point Guard Signs with LCU
Congratulations to Leesville senior point guard, Tekeriah Harris. The two-time All District performer helped lead the Lady Wampus Cats to the state quarterfinals for the first time since the early 1990’s. Harris will continue her education and basketball at Louisiana Christian University in Pineville.
Rep. Charles Owen proposed a controversial bill on carbon sequestration projects. Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Louisiana House
By Ella Ray LSU Manship School News Service
PUBLISHERS NOTE: THIS STORY HAS ALL THE DETAILS THAT OUR ORIGINAL STORY DID NOT HAVE.
A bill that would have let parishes vote on whether to have carbon sequestration wells in their areas failed in a 6-10 vote Tuesday in a state House committee.
The meeting of the House Committee on Natural Resources and Environment was packed as the committee heard several bills on carbon capture sequestration.
Carbon capture is a method used to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. After the CO2 is captured, it can be stored deep underground in a carbon injection well. This is called geologic sequestration, and roughly 30 such projects have been proposed in the state.
Most of the day was spent on House Bill 4, which sought to give parish governments authority over whether a carbon injection well is permitted within a parish.
Rep. Charles Owen, a Republican who represents Beauregard and Vernon parishes, sponsored the bill. It would have let each of the 64 parishes decide whether to allow the projects within its borders.
Currently, the Louisiana Department of Energy and Natural Resources has the power to permit carbon wells in the state.
Owen prefaced his presentation with a message: He has no desire to kill carbon capture, only to give parishes and residents a say in the process. “I want our citizens to have a voice,” Owen said. Many Louisiana citizens made their voices heard in the committee room, sharing personal stories, concerns and pleas.
Members of the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana spoke in favor of the bill. Linda Langley told the committee she was against a potential injection well site that many Coushatta members did not know was being built near their reservation in Allen Parish.
“Every person’s voice matters equally,” Langley said. “We didn’t know about it, we weren’t told about it.” Langley said she only recently learned about the site when she received a phone call asking her to testify in favor of House Bill 4.
Several people, including Langley, expressed concern over how these carbon wells and pipelines would impact children and future generations.
Avery Williams, a 16-year-old student from Grant, Louisiana, testified about how she lives directly next to an injection well and CO2 pipeline. Williams said she was given an assignment in school to research carbon capture and learned how dangerous it can be. “I can’t vote, but I do have a voice,” Williams said. “As young people who can’t choose what gets built in our backyards, we can’t stop a pipeline with a ballot, but you can.” Williams received a round of applause.
Industry proponents spoke in opposition to the bill, saying it would have made the approval process more difficult and would have made Louisiana less attractive for businesses. Carbon capture allows for the use of a cheap natural gas in a way that is better for the environment than alternatives. Louisiana is uniquely suited for this process, making the state appealing to outside businesses.
“While respecting the need for local authority and choice, the reality is that [this bill] will bottleneck the process,” said Michael Hecht, president and chief executive of Greater New Orleans Inc. Hecht warned that adding another layer of red tape might not kill Louisiana industry but would harm it.
“We’ve got to get Louisiana growing again,” said Hecht.
Several other bills involving carbon sequestration also failed in the committee. They would have limited the use of eminent domain to acquire property for the wells and increased safety requirements and the potential for people injured in accidents to attach liens on the properties to help collect damages.
Another bill that failed, in a 5-8 vote, would have placed a moratorium on these types of projects until July 1, 2026.
The Junior League of Leesville will present their annual “Touch a Truck” event on Saturday, May 17, from 9am-2pm around the historic old courthouse in downtown Leesville.
Bring your kids and those of your neighbors. They can interact with vehicles of all sizes and shapes, including: cars, trucks, emergency first responder units, law enforcement cars, and even heavy equipment. There are also games and activities for children.
Adults will enjoy vendors for shopping, food trucks, and more, including a noon-1pm “quiet time”.
This event has grown more popular every year, and children can explore and be curious about vehicles of all sizes. For more information contact the Junior League of Leesville at jlvernonparish@gmail.com.
The NSU Percussion Studio and the Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band will conclude their Alumni Weekend with a concert on Sunday, May 4, at 2 p.m. in Magale Recital. The NSU Percussion Ensemble and Steel PanDEMONium Band will open the concert before more than 60 alumni take the stage and perform together once again.
The Alumni Weekend welcomes back those who were percussion music majors or members of the marching percussion section of the band to campus. The weekend will be filled with activities and celebrates the career of retired percussion professor Ken Green.
Featured works include pieces by Pat Metheny, Snarky Puppy, Yanni, Blake Tyson and NSU alum Steven Wimberley. Traditional drum and fife music and traditional samba batucada music will also be included.
Following are the times for graduation ceremonies at Vernon Parish high schools: Evans Saturday, May 3, 10 a.m. Hornbeck Saturday, May 3, 10 a.m. Anacoco Sunday, May 4, 2 p.m. Hicks Monday, May 5, 7 p.m. Rosepine Monday, May 5, 7:30 p.m. Simpson Tuesday, May 6, 6:30 p.m. Leesville Thursday, May 8, 7 p.m. Pitkin Saturday, May 10, 2 p.m. Pickering Saturday, May 10, 7 p.m.
Congratulations to all area high school graduates. You made it!
District 30 State Representative, Chuck Owen, had his HB-4 heard by committee Tuesday, April 29. This bill would have given Vernon & Beauregard parishes the right to opt out of Carbon Capture Sequestration in their parish, The debate was over five hours long with many local citizens speaking in opposition to CCS.
The bill failed to make it out of committee by a vote of 10-6. Owen said he expected opposition from the oil and gas industry but was surprised at the attitude of some other industries in the state.
House bills 250 and 251 will be considered next week. They do essentially the same thing. There are also bills to be heard next week concerning the topic in Jeff Davis and Allen parishes.
VPJ OPINION:
Just another instance of state government not following the will of the majority. The 10 legislators who voted to potentially poison the state they represent are without conscience or knowledge.
Vernon Parish has one Fire District, which includes 21 volunteer departments and two paid departments in Leesville and New Llano, to cover 1,341 square miles in one of the most rural parishes in the state.
On the ballot for May 3, voters in Vernon Parish are being asked to renew a ½ percent millage for ten years. The millage renewal would begin April 1, 2026. This millage will generate $4.3 million annually in revenue. Half of that, or 1/4 percent, goes to the Vernon Parish Police Jury for roads, highways and bridges. The other half, (1/4 percent), will be used by the Fire District for constructing, improving, maintaining, and operating parishwide fire protection facilities.
Voters and residents need to understand that if this measure fails at the ballot box, the consequences would be dire for many. THERE IS NO STATE FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR FIRE PROTECTION! Home and fire insurance would be more expensive for all residents and unaffordable for many. Money from this millage renewal will fund only fire protection in Vernon Parish. It will cover the cost of trucks, equipment and gear for every station in the parish. It is the only source of revenue available.
The Vernon Parish Fire District is housed in the new E-911 building on Ned Woodham Road. The building and contents are paid for. Nothing is owed by the First District. Vernon Parish Fire District spokesperson, Donald Haymon, has spent 18 years on the fire board and reassured taxpayers that the district is a good steward of taxpayer money.
The Vernon Fire District began in 1986, and this millage is used to update facilities, equipment and fire-fighting gear. The district has 250+ volunteer firefighters who need functional, current equipment and gear. The State Fire Marshall’s office does offer training. Volunteers also participate in station and regional training.
The ½ percent millage is one of two measures on the May 3 ballot.
OPINION
In order for insurance rates to improve and to maintain the status quo without losing current levels of service, the Vernon Parish Journal urges voters to vote YES on this measure May 3.
The National Day of Prayer will be observed in Vernon Parish on Thursday, May 1, at noon on the lawn of the historic old courthouse. Everyone is invited to take a few moments to participate.
In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the Leesville Event Center at 608 Nolan Trace in Leesville.
The Leesville City Council met Monday, April 28, at 3 p.m. in City Hall. Mayor Rick Allen presided. Councilwoman Nicole Ybarra was absent.
Monthly bills of $86,527.40 were presented to the city council. Erin Manuel, with Meyer and Associates gave updates on engineering projects that are ongoing. The sewage treatment work on the Entrance Road project was shut down for the week of Easter. It resumes this week. Plans for the new Entrance Road fire station and budgets were submitted for state approval.
Council members heard Ordinance 8 of 2025, an ordinance to adopt the amended fiscal year 2024-2025 operating budget and the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget for the city. A public hearing will be held Monday, May 12 at 3pm on the matter.
Council members approved awarding a contract to APECK Construction LLC for the Runway Extension Project at the airport, funded by the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation and an LADOTD aviation grant. The City is authorized to commit to cover all costs over state and federal funding, not to exceed $400,000 for the Runway Extension Project.
In other business, council members accepted the resignation of Finance Director, Nicole Naral. Ms. Kimberly Bridges was introduced as her replacement by Mayor Allen.
City Planner, Grant Bush, spoke to council members about a permit issued for the Association of the U.S. Army’s annual Armadillo Stampede 5K run. The event is Saturday, May 3 and will run a slightly different route than previous years.
The Leesville City Council’s next meeting is at 3 p.m., Monday, May 12.
The Pickering High School powerlifting team sent 13 lifters to the U.S. Powerlifting High School Nationals last weekend at the University of New Orleans. The team of Red Devil lifters won the Equipped Division National Title. Team members included; Ava Nixon, Alyssa Brown, Abby Kunath, Lindsey Bartlett, Layla Anthony, Ethan Brown, Ricardo Sastre, Braden Ford, Hunter Noel, Landon Noel, Agustus James, Alex Austin and Xavier Mitchell.
Every lifter set state, national, even some world records. This is the second season in a row for the Pickering Powerlifters to win at nationals. The LHSAA held their state meet in March, and several Pickering athletes placed and earned medals.
Coaches John Daugherty, Katy Neighbors and Jimmy Neighbors look forward to the 2026 powerlifting season when they will host an invitational meet and the 2026 Central Boys Regional.
No results were available, but the Leesville High Powerlifting team recently won the USPA RAW Nationals. The sport is catching on in West Central Louisiana.
The annual Mayfest, a 2012 Louisiana Tourism Board, Louis Award winner, for best festival in the state is moving from downtown Leesville to the Forestry Festival fairgrounds. This Friday and Saturday the fairgrounds will be alive with music food arts, crafts and new activities.
This move will give organizers added flexibility to schedule events that can be sheltered from bad weather. Parking is certainly plentiful, and many of your favorite activities will go on as planned.
Mayfest officially begins Friday, May 2, with opening ceremonies on the main stage at 3 p.m. Music will begin at 4 p.m. The last act is set for 8 p.m. The welcome ceremonies will include a military color guard and a flyover by Blackhawk attack helicopters.
The Vernon 4-H program and 4-H Club will be involved with kids’ activities, sponsoring mutton busting in the Lions rodeo arena at 4 p.m. Friday and team roping competition Saturday at 10 a.m. Contact the 4-H office to enter either event.
Saturday at 7 a.m., the Leesville Lions Club will host their annual Pancake Breakfast fundraiser at the rodeo arena. They’ll be serving hot pancakes and all the trimmings for breakfast or brunch. Join the fun and food with the Leesville Lions Club at the fairgrounds.
Mayfest will feature a giant car show this year on the midway. The cars will be lined up for your approval on Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The cost to enter the show is $20. Pre-register your ride at the Vernon Parish Police Jury office at 300 S. 3rd Street n downtown Leesville. Winners will be announced from the main stage at approximately 2 p.m. Saturday.
The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office will host a new event Saturday in the fairgrounds auditorium. Area seniors are invited to come out and be welcomed at 10:30 a.m. You’ll enjoy a day of great gospel music and a free meal.
GOSPEL LINEUP-In the Auditorium/Saturday, May 3
11 am/Chuck Marze 11:30/Lunch 11:45 am-12:15 pm/Good Old Boys 1:30 pm-2:15 pm/Pollock Family 2:30 pm-3:15 pm/Johnson Temple Church of God 3:30 pm-4:15 pm/Signed, Sealed, Delivered.
Friday, May 2-Music Lineup on Main Stage
4 pm-5:15 pm/Rosedown Rockers 5:30 pm-6:45/Beaushyne 7 pm-8:15 pm/Born to Boogie 8:30 pm-10 pm/Kenne’ Wayne
Saturday, May 3-Music Lineup on Main Stage
11:30 am-12:30 pm/Louisiana Scramble Band 11:45 pm-1:45 pm/Old Man Band 2 pm-3:15 pm/KCM
3:30 pm-4:45 pm/Southern Country 5 pm-6:15 pm/Whiskey Dent 6:30 pm-8 pm/Sundown Band 8:30-10 pm/Glen Templeton
There is NO ADMISSION to Mayfest 2025, so pack up the family. You’ll find loads of food and beverage options Friday and Saturday, plus rows of arts and craft items. The U.S. Army at Ft. Johnson will have a static display for viewing Saturday on the midway from 1-5 p.m.
Mayfest is moving! If you like music, good food and sunshine, Mayfest weekend is for you! Thanks to the Vernon Parish Police Jury and all the volunteers who have been working behind the scenes to make this first year memorable.
The softball season ended for the remaining Vernon Parish teams in the quarterfinals of the LHSAA playoffs. #3 Anacoco and #5 Hicks both lost last weekend.
Anacoco was defeated at home by #6 Zwolle, 16-7. Zwolle moves into the semifinals, Friday, May 2, to face #2 Stanley. The game is set for Noon on Field #18 at North Frasch Park in Sulphur Louisiana.
#5 Hicks fell at #4 Grace Christian, Saturday in Alexandria, 11-7. Grace Christian will face #1 Quitman in the semifinals, Friday, May 2 at Noon. The game is set for Field #17 at North Frasch Park.
Baseball
Five Vernon Parish baseball teams from Classes B & C are into the Regional round of the LHSAA playoffs.
#15 Leesville exited the Division II-Select playoffs by losing a pair to #2 St. Charles. The Wampus Cats were run ruled in five innings of both games, 10-0 & 15-0.
#11 Rosepine was swept in two games of the Division III-Select bracket, losing at #6 Episcopal of Baton Rouge, 12-10 & 10-4.
Class B(regional round)
#1 Pitkin will host #16 Zwolle on Thursday, May 1 at 6pm/On air-KVVP/105.7
#4 Hicks will host #13 Stanley on Thursday, May 1 at 530pm
#11 Anacoco will travel to face #6 Holden on Thursday, May 1 at 6pm
Class C(Regional round)
#6 Hornbeck will host #11 Claiborne Christian Thursday, May1 at 530pm/On air-KJAE/93.5
#12 Simpson visits #5 Hackberry, Thursday, May 1 at 6pm
The boys state baseball tournament is scheduled for May 13-17 at McMurray Park in Sulphur, Louisiana.
Northwestern State University’s School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics will host Destination Science Camp June 23-27. The camp will offer a comprehensive experience with workshops in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, physics, drone technology, veterinary technology and natural science.
The camp is geared towards students ages 10-14 and not recommended for students who have not completed the fourth grade. Nine-year-olds heading to fifth grade will be eligible to attend.
Campers will be exposed to topics in a variety of fields of science, work with various technologies used in research, interface with faculty in the School of Biological and Physical Sciences and learn through games and activities.
The cost is $125 for each student with proceeds going to the School of Biological and Physical Sciences Endowment to support the sciences at the university. Checks can be made payable to ASM NSU on the first day of camp.
Drop-off will be at 8 a.m. in the lobby of Beinvenu Hall with pickup at noon in Bienvenu Hall. Accommodations for later pick up can be arranged.
Tournament bass fishing is sometimes about as predictable as the weather. Every single day is different, even when the weather doesn’t want to cooperate. This is why anglers must be flexible and willing to adjust.
The anglers who can pivot at the right time are usually the guys who win. Just because you caught bass one way on Thursday, does not mean you’ll be able to catch them the same way on Friday. So many factors come in to play when it comes to bass biting.
The weather is probably the biggest factor in how bass react daily. Of course, they bite best during low or falling barometric pressure days and if there’s one thing I’ve learned over my many years of tournament fishing, it’s that timing is everything. No matter what body of water it is, bass are biting somewhere! You just have to be in the right place at the right time.
This is where practice pays off, but you as an angler must pay attention. If you caught fish in a certain area on Friday at 10 a.m., there’s a good chance those same fish will bite about an hour later the next day.
But almost every tournament day, anglers must adjust on the fly. Conditions can change hourly, especially during the spring, as cold fronts come through more often than any other time of the year. During the summer months, bass are more predictable as weather patterns tend to be more consistent and stable for days at a time.
There are days, however, when anglers are left scratching their heads and questioning the bait and technique they are using. It’s a running joke with anglers that memos are sent out to all bass on the morning the tournament starts.
It’s like they’ve been notified to be aware that there are bass fishermen on the water today looking to jerk them into a bass boat. Therefore, bass should avoid all artificial lures and be alert for anything that resembles live bait and approach all food sources with caution!
While we all know bass can’t read, there are times when it seems someone has made them aware that anglers are on the water.
Sometimes, I think we as anglers give bass way too much intellectual credit, but with so much fishing pressure on our lakes today, bass are becoming more educated and can be difficult to catch. Day after day, hour after hour, bass are seeing so many lures that they have become warry of anything that doesn’t look like natural forage.
This is the challenge that I absolutely love about bass fishing! How can I put together a recipe to catch these little green creatures we call bass. Because the ultimate goal is to put a heavy five- fish limit in the boat that will allow me to either win or cash a check.
But so many times, the tournament never goes the way you planned. There comes a point during the day that you must rethink your strategy and approach. This is when the word “adjustment” comes into play.
Like so many professional anglers will tell you, bass fishing is all about decision making. Anglers that make the right adjustments at the right time are usually the ones holding up the trophy at the end of the day.
Bass fishing is becoming more and more difficult even with all the great lures and equipment we have as anglers. The days of going out and catching a hundred bass in a day are pretty much gone. Why? I feel it’s all because of one word, “pressure.”
Boat ramps that used to be empty Monday through Thursday, are now full seven days a week. The bass never get a break from the pressure with so many anglers on the water every single day. Also, we now have Livescope, a tool that allows anglers to go after every bass.
Today, there’s no longer a safe haven for bass to retreat to and get a break from all the fishing pressure. Daily, bass are chased and pursued all over the lake with no time to recover.
This is why so many tournaments today are won by anglers who make the right decisions and adjustments in order to put themselves in position for the win or cash a check.
‘Til next time, good luck, good fishing and don’t forget to wear your life jacket every time your big engine is running.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announces that, weather permitting, beginning Tuesday, April 29th, 2025 at 7:00 AM, the northbound and southbound inside lanes will be closed during this phase of the project. This phase of the project will include the construction of the median of US 171 between Stanton Rd. and Boone St., the removal and reconstruction of the turnout for Walmart, the construction of the concrete island at the roundabout, and the construction of concrete truck aprons at Walgreens.
All northbound traffic on US 171 will be directed to the northbound outside travel lane and will continue circulating around the outer lane of the roundabout.
All southbound traffic on US 171 will be directed to the southbound outside travel lane and will continue circulating around the outer lane of the roundabout.
The Walmart driveway will function as an entrance only during this phase of construction. Traffic exiting Walmart will not be permitted to exit via this driveway. Motorists will be required to use an alternate route to leave the premises.
The northbound left turn lane at the Walmart drive will be closed. Northbound traffic intending to access the Walmart driveway will be required to travel through the roundabout, proceed southbound on US 171, and then turn into the Walmart entrance from the southbound direction.
Northbound traffic intending to access Boone Street will do so by entering the roundabout and exiting onto Boone Street.
Southbound traffic needing to access Red Town Road must continue past the intersection and utilize the J-turn located approximately 1,500 feet south of Vernon Street, then travel northbound on US 171 to reach the dedicated turn lane at Red Town Road.
All traffic exiting Red Town Road will be restricted to a right turn onto northbound US 171.
Northwestern State University’s is offering a Career Connection summer camp for students aged 13-15 on July 9-10. The camp is free. Registration is now open on a first-come, first-served basis at https://www.nsula.edu/career-connection.
The camp is co-hosted by Northwestern’s Office of Counseling and Career Services, the Office of Recruiting and the Division of Student Affairs.
Career Connection will let students explore some of the exciting hands-on education experiences offered at Northwestern. This innovative summer program connects students with hands-on learning experiences across various academic disciplines and career paths, fostering early career exploration and academic engagement.
Subjects to be covered include art, athletic training, cooking, money management, technical theatre, computer information systems, healthcare, media and industrial and electronics engineering. Instructors will include NSU faculty and community professionals.
Campers must have tennis shoes and athletic clothes since participants will be walking to academic buildings for sessions.
Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. each day. Camp activities are from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on day one and from 8 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. on day two. Campers should bring their own lunch. An afternoon snack will be provided on both days.
A recent site on email (See How Tree-Friendly Your City Is, Washington Post), got me thinking again of the impact of the environment on our daily lives. What is proven is that the abundance of trees corresponds with one’s longevity. What? Yes, you live longer if your town has good tree cover. The reasons are simple. Shade from trees reduces cancer from sun exposure. Trees create more and better oxygen supply. Trees reduce temperatures, thus less stress from heat, not only physically but psychologically. Trees also help with air conditioning needs, lowering costs. Trees outside the house can lower temps by 5 to 11 degrees. Putting trees on the west side of your house is good to reduce both heat and glare from eye strain and visits to the ophthalmologist. Some trees produce good, edible fruit. Trees impact the real estate value of a house. And the list goes on. Trees in the “urban” landscape are a major factor in its desirability, health, costs, and comfort. Trees are a good return for the investment.
Presently there is no plan to introduce or reintroduce a tree planting program or a plan to develop a canopy of trees. There have been in the past. Hmm, very interesting. In Leesville and Vernon Parish, trees are everywhere where people are not. We take them for granted, seldom replacing fallen trees or planting new ones in the village spaces and edges where once a forest stood. I believe we would welcome being healthier and more attractive to elders, retirees, middle-age workers, and young people. How? By simply planting trees. Leesville in particular is ripe for renewal. It is naturally attractive with its unusual rolling hills right in the heart of downtown. And what better way than having trees everywhere we can?
I have a dream of planting, for example, the majestic longleaf and shortleaf pines all along our streets and any available green or vacant spaces. These two trees were the dominant, climax, forest types when wagons first rolled down Nolan Trace. Don’t confuse them. These two are not the commercial pines that we see aboard logging trucks headed to nearby chip, pulp and lumber mills. I am in fact growing longleaf pines in a small meadow only three blocks from the old courthouse downtown. They are doing quite well. Another reliable, fast-growing, native tree is the old-fashioned Catalpa, with its handkerchief-size flowers that are coming into bloom just now. And don’t forget the standbys: magnolias, live oaks and sycamores.
I don’t expect folks will jump on the bandwagon and start imagining trees like I do. No, not yet, but one can dream. Louisiana grows stuff, and if we in Vernon Parish are wise, we could get a jump on this simple, inexpensive wonder and start planting trees in the city. Remember, if a tree doesn’t work, it can be removed. It’s a good thing even when done in excess. Thus, a toast, “May you plant a tree or two this year, dear friend, lengthen your life, the greatest revenge.”
MayFest, winner of the Louisiana Travel Association’s Louey Award for Festival of the Year, returns to Vernon Parish on May 2nd-3rd for a weekend filled with live music, food, and family fun and it’s completely free to attend. This year, the festival is growing and moving to a brand-new location at the Vernon Parish Fairgrounds, located at 276 HM Stevens Blvd. in Leesville.
With talented musicians taking the stage, vendors serving up homemade eats and handcrafted goods, and artists demonstrating their work, MayFest is a celebration of everything that makes this part of Louisiana so vibrant. It will be an action-packed weekend with a BBQ cook-off, mutton busting and roping! There are also children’s activities, so bring your lawn chairs, round up the whole family, and get ready for two full days of fun. Check out our schedule below!
Tentative Schedule of Events (subject to change):
Friday, May 2, 2025 (Main Stage) 3:00 Opening Ceremony 4:00-8:15 Local Bands 8:30 Friday Headliner
Saturday, May 3, 2025 (Gospel Stage) 10:00 Welcome 11:30-1:00 Senior Citizens Lunch (sponsored by the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office) 11:00 until Gospel Music
Saturday, May 3, 2025 (Main Stage) 2:00-8:00 Local Bands 8:30 Saturday Headliner
Explore ALL that Vernon Parish has to offer!
From in-town events to the great outdoors, explore Vernon Parish for fresh finds and true adventure!
Third Street Market, on May 10th, in Leesville is the perfect Saturday stop, open from 8am-1pm and packed with farm-fresh produce, homemade treats, and one-of-a-kind crafts.
Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy, from bird watching in Kisatchie National Forest to exploring the unique flora of Allen Acres, where you can take part in plant identification classes, guided tours, or even book a peaceful overnight stay surrounded by nature.
If you’re craving a little more adventure, Vernon Parish offers a range of outdoor activities like horseback riding and golf—the perfect way to round out your spring escape.
And of course, don’t leave without tasting the local flavor. Grab a hearty meal at Brenda’s Kitchen Puerto Rican Cuisine, enjoy Italian favorites at Joe’s Italian Restaurant, or stop at a hidden gem along our Gas Station Eats trail. Cap it all off with a visit to Louisiana Moonshine, the state’s first legal distillery, where tours and tastings make for a spirited addition to your trip.
Make plans now for MayFest—and make the most of your time in Vernon Parish. Book your perfect spring getaway today!
Funeral services for Charlotte Louise Cook were held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Bellwood Baptist Church with Reverend Roger Matkin officiating. Burial followed in Bellwood Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Serving as pallbearers were Brennan Cook, Colton Stewart, Bradley Cook, Jacob Cook, Alon Smiley, Raymond Toothman, James Dickson, and Tyler Cook. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Anderson Smiley and Jaxson Norsworthy.
Charlotte was born March 16, 1947, in Winnfield, Louisiana, and passed away at her home in Robeline, Louisiana, on April 24, 2025, at the age of 78. For the past 50 plus years, she lived in the Robeline area and was a member of Bellwood Baptist Church. Charlotte used her green thumb to garden and raise beautiful flowers. Being outdoors hunting and fishing or watching the hummingbirds in her yard were things that she enjoyed as well as taking care of her family. They were blessed by the fresh vegetables and jellies that she would preserve from her garden. She was the glue that held her family together, and they will greatly miss her.
Charlotte was preceded in death by her husband, Billy “Possom” Cook; son, Billy Preston Cook; parents, Louie Preston Barton & Betty Mae Bright Barton; and daughters-in-law, Sue Marks Cook and Kristie Anders Cook.
Those left to cherish her memory are her sons, Gerald Wayne Cook (Debra) of Robeline, LA and Jason Paul Cook of Provencal, LA; daughter, Melissa Cook Guin (Billy) of Castor, LA; grandchildren, Sam Marks, Tyler Cook, Brian Cook, Bradley Cook, Aaron Fredieu, Susan Cook, Brennan Cook, Jacob Cook, Ivorie Martin, Brandon Guin, and Gina Guin; nine great grandchildren; brothers, Doug Barton of Big Spring, KY, Lee Barton (Shelia) of Lockport, LA, Roy Barton (Patrice) of Defuniak Springs, FL; and Richard Barton of Beauregard Parish; and a host of extended family and friends.
Following are the times for graduation ceremonies at Vernon Parish high schools: Evans Saturday, May 3, 10 a.m. Hornbeck Saturday, May 3, 10 a.m. Anacoco Sunday, May 4, 2 p.m. Hicks Monday, May 5, 7 p.m. Rosepine Monday, May 5, 7:30 p.m. Simpson Tuesday, May 6, 6:30 p.m. Leesville Thursday, May 8, 7 p.m. Pitkin Saturday, May 10, 2 p.m. Pickering Saturday, May 10, 7 p.m.
Congratulations to all area high school graduates. You made it!
