The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your way in a month.

Three days of festivities are approaching beginning Thursday, June 25 through Saturday, June 27 for the 2026 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2026 will be enshrined Saturday night, June 27 at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 67^th Induction Celebration.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 25, 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 26 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2026 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.

The slate on Saturday, June 27 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 ‘26 is headlined by a star-studded group:  Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2025 inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother.

Alexandria native and LSU baseball hero Warren Morris will receive the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, earning enshrinement into the LSHOF. His walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU and resulted in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

LSU graduate and New Orleans native Gil LeBreton and multi-faceted Shreveporter John James Marshall are going into the Hall as the 2026 winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. Former Tioga girls basketball coach and nationally-acclaimed high school sports administrator Kathy Holloway is being inducted as the recipient of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The 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.

If every disagreement turns into a critique of how you communicate, the real problem may be what you’re not resolving—here’s how to break the cycle and start working as a team.

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The Indianapolis 500, commonly called Indy 500, is a 500-mile automobile race which has become the largest single-day spectator sporting event in the world. Since its meager beginnings in 1909, people have flocked to the track in record numbers to watch the high-speed thrills. On May 30, 1941, George “Joie” Chitwood readied his cigar-shaped racecar, the Blue Crown Spark Plug Special, for the Indianapolis 500. During qualifying, Joie bounced around the track in his racecar and had a hard time keeping his foot on the accelerator. Out of necessity, Joie used a simple strap to fix the problem. The other drivers objected to the strap because they thought it was dangerous. The heads of the AAA Drivers Association agreed and refused to allow Joie to use the strap. They only relented when Joie promised to release the strap if he thought he was going to crash. Keep in mind that the cars traveled more than 100 miles per hour. Joie did not crash that day. He came in 14th place and won $620. (The first-place winner, Floyd Davis, received $29,200.) Joie believed that using the strap helped his performance in the 1941 Indy 500, but the other drivers remained skeptical.

For decades, the general public remained skeptical as well. Carmakers often adopt equipment designed for racing cars on their vehicles. In 1949, now defunct carmaker Nash Motors offered this strap on about 40,000 of their Airflyte and Ambassador models, but over 39,000 of them were removed by dealerships at the request of the owners. In 1955, Ford offered it as an option on their vehicles, but less than 2% of buyers chose the strap. In 1958, Saab became the first carmaker to include the strap as part of their standard equipment.

Although he had nothing to do with its invention, Joie Chitwood made history that day in May 1941 because he was the first driver to wear the strap in the Indy 500. Today, all race car drivers are required to wear one. It has also become a requirement in all automobiles. At that time, the common misperception was that people were safer in a car accident if they were thrown from the wreck rather than behind held inside the vehicle. They called the strap safety belts, but we know this strap as the seat belt.

Sources:

1. Robert Tate, “The 1949 Nash was an Entirely New Postwar Design,” MotorCities National Heritage Area, October 1, 2025, accessed May 17, 2026, https://www.motorcities.org/story-of-the-week/2025/the-1949-nash-was-an-entirely-new-postwar-design.

2. “1941 Indianapolis 500 Race Results,” Indianapolis 500 Race Day Stats, accessed May 17, 2026, https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500/history/historical-stats/race-stats/race-results/1941.

3. “Joie Chitwood (SR.),” National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum, accessed May 17, 2026, https://web.archive.org/web/20190619150409/https://www.sprintcarhof.com/helper_pages/FileGet.aspx?id=186.

Gibsland Bancshares, Inc. to Acquire Marion State Bank

Gibsland, Louisiana, May 15, 2026 – Gibsland Bancshares, Inc., the holding company of Gibsland, Louisiana based Gibsland Bank & Trust Company (“Gibsland Bank”), and Marion, Louisiana based Marion State Bank, jointly announced today that they have entered into a definitive agreement whereby Gibsland Bancshares, Inc. will acquire Marion State Bank. Together with the acquisition, Marion State Bank will merge with and into Gibsland Bank, creating a combined Louisiana community bank with over $815 million in pro forma assets.

Marion State Bank, a community bank headquartered in Marion, Louisiana, had approximately $240 million in total assets as of March 31, 2026. The transaction will bring Marion State Bank’s five branches into the Gibsland Bank network, which will be entering the Ouachita/Union Parish market and expanding its footprint along the I-20 corridor. Once completed, Gibsland Bank will operate from 18 branches across the Northern Louisiana market area.

“We are excited to announce our partnership with Marion State Bank and look forward to bringing together two deeply rooted Louisiana community banking franchises. Marion State Bank has built an outstanding reputation through more than a century of service to its customers and communities, and its presence in Union and Ouachita parishes is a natural complement to our franchise across northern Louisiana,” reported Thomas L. Martin, Chairman and CEO of Gibsland Bancshares Inc. and of Gibsland Bank.

“Together, we believe our combined organization will be well positioned to deliver relationship-focused banking services while continuing to invest in and support the communities we are proud to serve,” explained W. Michael Hipp, President of Gibsland Bank.

“We are proud to partner with Gibsland Bank & Trust Company, an organization that shares our commitment to community banking, customer service, and local decision-making,” remarked Scott Jones, President and CEO of Marion State Bank. “Joining Gibsland will allow us to build our long-standing Louisiana legacy with greater scale and enhanced products and services. We believe this partnership is an excellent fit for our customers, employees, shareholders, and communities, and we look forward to the opportunities ahead”.

The acquisition, which is subject to customary closing conditions, including the approval of Marion State Bank shareholders and the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026.

National Capital, LLC served as the financial advisor to Gibsland Bancshares Inc.  Fenimore Kay Harrison LLP served as the legal advisor to Gibsland Bancshares, Inc.  Raymond James & Associates, Inc. served as the financial advisor to Marion State Bank and delivered a fairness opinion to the Marion State Bank Board of Directors. Jones Walker, LLP served as the legal advisor to Marion State Bank.

About Gibsland Bancshares, Inc.

Gibsland Bancshares, Inc. is the bank holding company for Gibsland Bank & Trust Company, a community development financial institution headquartered in Gibsland, Louisiana. Gibsland Bank operates 13 branches across Northern Louisiana and is focused on serving underserved and rural markets by providing financial services and broader economic support within the communities it serves. As of March 31, 2026, Gibsland Bank had total assets of $575 million, loans of $411 million and total deposits of $461 million.

About Marion State Bank

Marion State Bank is a Louisiana community bank headquartered in Marion, Louisiana. Founded in 1907, Marion State Bank operates five branches across Union and Ouachita parishes offering a full suite of personal, business and loan banking products, along with digital and mobile banking capabilities. As of March 31, 2026, Marion State Bank had total assets of $240 million, loans of $163 million and total deposits of $210 million.

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release is for informational purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell or exchange any securities, or a solicitation of any proxy, vote, or approval, and there shall not be any such offer or solicitation in any jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation is not permitted.

Media Contact(s):

Thomas L. Martin, Chairman & CEO
Gibsland Bank & Trust Company/Gibsland Bancshares, Inc.
tmartin@gbt.bank
gbt.bank

Scott G. Jones, President & CEO
Marion State Bank
scott.jones@marionstate.bank
marionstate.bank

Source: Gibsland Bancshares, Inc.

When you hear ‘Peach Festival’, you may picture baskets of fuzzy peaches, maybe a peach cobbler bake-off, or even a parade. But here in Ruston, the Louisiana Peach Festival is so much more than just a celebration of our locally grown fruit. It is a time to experience the rich tradition and culture that can only be found in our small historic town. Residents and visitors alike come for this special day, filled with activities that keep people coming back year to year. This year’s Peach Festival in Ruston is Saturday, June 6.

Here are 5 ways that the Peach Festival exceeds just peach appreciation (although, we love our peaches too):

1. A Love Letter to Louisiana Culture

Area artists, vendors, musicians, and makers are the forefront of what makes this festival thrive. Browsing our curated arts market with 90+ artists of all mediums allows you to get a glimpse into the vibrant arts of our state. And you can’t miss the music! Louisiana-based musicians play on the Railroad Park Stage to ensure the spirit of the festival carries on into the night. Celebrate our Louisiana roots with us, and dive into what makes our culture so unique.

2. The Food Scene Goes Full Peach (In the Best Way Possible)

Here in Ruston, we pride ourselves on the quality and diversity of our local restaurants and food trucks. The creativity of Ruston’s culinary scene is unmatched, and the sweet peach flavor is no exception. In the week leading up to the festival, 30+ local restaurants come together for the Peach Culinary Crawl, featuring unexpected dishes, drinks, and pairings. From a peach caprese turkey melt to a pint of locally-brewed peach wheat ale, indulge your tastebuds with this staple, seasonal ingredient.

3. It Still Holds Tight to Its Sweet Southern Traditions

Of course, it would not be a southern festival without all of the classic contests and exhibits. The Peach Pageant, Peach Parade, Antique Car Show, Peach Rodeo, Peach Art Exhibit, and Cookery Contest are all ways that the community engages with the roots of the festival. These fun traditions have been happening for generations, and plan to stay for many, many more. The Ruston community continues to add to these celebrations, with sidewalk sales, a 5K race, and even a Pickleball Tournament. All these traditions keep the festival feeling like a small town gathering, keeping it close to the hearts of our residents and visitors.

4. It’s One of the Few Festivals Where You Don’t Feel Nickel-and-Dimed

The Peach Festival prides itself on having free admission, making it accessible for a Saturday full of activities. In Kids Alley, there are no paid vendors, allowing all kiddos to enjoy hands-on crafts, games, entertainment, and more festival activities. It is the perfect opportunity to bring the family out for fun that won’t break the bank. Our goal is to make the festival easy and accessible for all ages to enjoy!

5. It Feels More Like a Community Gathering Than a Carnival

No flashy rides or ferris wheels here – the Peach Festival provides something even more memorable. Surrounded by the painted murals of downtown, local organizations, and all the friendly volunteers, it’s easy to feel like a part of the Ruston community that we know and love. With festivities happening from morning to late into the night, you have plenty of time to experience the festival at your own pace. So bring out your lawn chair, grab a bite, listen to the music, and enjoy all the sights and sounds of our community. 

The traditions, culture, and hospitality surrounding this celebration reminds us that this isn’t just a festival, but a signature kind of Southern experience you don’t find everywhere. The peach flavor is just the tip of the iceberg to all of the sweetness of peach season in Ruston, LA. 

For more information on the 76th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival and to see the full schedule of events, visit www.lapeachfest.com/. 

Today’s kids are booked, busy, and burned out—but one parent is asking if it’s time to bring back a simpler, slower kind of childhood.

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Dear Fellow Citizens, 

I’m John Fleming, your State Treasurer and Republican candidate for U.S. Senate.

This Saturday’s election is extremely important. DC lobbyists and Baton Rouge elites have poured millions into supporting their preferred candidate — NOT ME. 

At stake is the carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) industry’s push to use YOUR tax dollars to seize YOUR private land through eminent domain.  Estimates suggest that up to 75% of the nation’s CO2 emissions could be pumped beneath our lands, lakes, and rivers – ‘captured’ for eternity. The whole thing is a “Green New Deal” scam, which will make the elites wealthier at the expense of the rest of us.  I am the only candidate who is 100% opposed to this fraud and abuse.  

Don’t be fooled! The establishment and powers that be are trying to buy our Louisiana Senate seat. I can’t be bought, bribed, or bullied! 

Our future, and the future of our children and grandchildren, hangs in the balance. Please don’t sit this one out — vote this Saturday, May 16th.   Polls open at 7:00 a.m. 

Thank you,

John Fleming
Louisiana State Treasurer
Republican Candidate for the US Senate 

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After 22 years of shared finances, a new disagreement puts one couple at odds: should they help an adult son with car payments, or protect their retirement?

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By Tiffany Flournoy

A Claiborne Academy senior has been selected as one of eight North Louisiana students awarded college scholarships from Meriwether Wealth & Planning.

Meriwether Wealth & Planning announced the recipients of its 2026 Meriwether Scholarships, selected from 46 applications submitted by high school seniors across North Louisiana. Each student will receive a $1,000 award to be applied to the college or university of their choice.

Among the recipients is Elaini Ware of Claiborne Academy, who plans to attend Louisiana Tech University and major in speech-language pathology.

Other recipients include Topher Wilson of Minden High School, Addison Lee of Glenbrook School and Camryn Nail and Hudson Smith of North Webster High School, along with Indya Carper of Captain Shreve High School, Ella Dison of Saline High School and Amberlynn Kennedy of West Ouachita High School.

A selection committee made up of Meriwether clients reviewed applications, essays and recommendation letters to determine the winners.

“We were able to offer eight scholarships this year thanks to the generosity of several clients who desired to make a positive impact in the lives of students,” said Tracy L. Campbell, a partner and financial advisor with the firm. “It’s evident by the applications we received that the future is bright for so many young people in our area.”

Meriwether officials said the firm has contributed more than $250,000 to local communities over the past five years through sponsorships, donations and scholarships supporting schools and nonprofit organizations.

She’s not just a nervous flyer anymore—she’s dreading every trip. With family and work pulling her cross-country, is it time to face her fears or stay grounded for good?

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By Tiffany Flournoy

By: Jason Pugh, Associate Athletic Director for External Relations

NATCHITOCHES – The Northwestern State athletic department and Rhodes Properties and Development have partnered to create a unique opportunity for fans and supporters of Demon athletics.

The two entities have combined to present the 2026 Rhodes Properties and Development Demon Dream Home giveaway – a raffle that will see the winner collect a brand-new Rhodes-built home in the Hidden Oak subdivision in Natchitoches, located along Louisiana Highway 3191.

Raffle tickets will be sold for $100 each beginning May 4 and can be purchased through Northwestern athletes or online through www.NSUDemons.com. The live drawing will take place Nov. 6 at Riverside Reserve in Natchitoches with additional prizes awarded at the event.

Proceeds from the raffle will go toward the Northwestern athletic department in support of its student-athletes.

“Working hand-in-hand with Rhodes Properties and Development to bring the Demon Dream Home to life was an easy decision,” Director of Athletics Kevin Bostian said. “Their support of Northwestern State athletics never has been in question, but it has reached another level with this partnership. We are far beyond grateful for Rhodes Properties and Development for their input and expertise in this process.”

The home, valued at $265,000, is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom, 1,450-square foot heated building in one of Natchitoches’ newest subdivisions that Rhodes Properties and Development and Rhodes Realty began developing in early 2026. Hidden Oak subdivision is located near Sibley Lake, west of Louisiana Highway 1 in Natchitoches.

“We at Rhodes Properties and Development, alongside Rhodes Realty, understand the importance of the Northwestern State athletic program to the Natchitoches community,” Rhodes Properties and Development owners and operators James and Justin Rhodes said. “We believe in the vision of Northwestern State athletics and where it is going. We presented this opportunity to Kevin as our way to support nearly 400 student-athletes as well as the coaches and staff members with whom we have developed relationships. The vendors who will help us bring this home to life share that same vision. Being involved in all facets of this project allows us to continue to demonstrate our commitment to Northwestern State and Natchitoches.”

Purchase Raffle Tickets: https://nsudemons.com/

“When a mother realizes her child is watching history unfold in real time—and feeling afraid—she faces a question no parent is ever quite prepared to answer: how do you explain a frightening world without making it feel even more dangerous?”

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By Richard Searles, Journal Contributor

State faces record 6,465 orphaned wells, a cleanup bill that could top $1 billion, and a broken oversight system

Louisiana’s oil patch is leaving behind a growing legacy of abandoned wells that leak, contaminate groundwater and cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars — and on a per capita basis, the state’s problem is more than four times worse than Texas, which has drawn national attention for the same issue.

As of March 2025, Louisiana has 6,465 orphaned oil and gas wells — unplugged, abandoned sites with no responsible operator — according to the state Department of Conservation and Energy. Texas has approximately 10,029 orphaned wells, according to its Railroad Commission. But Texas has nearly seven times Louisiana’s population. Louisiana has roughly one orphaned well for every 711 residents. Texas has one for every 3,130. Louisiana’s per capita burden is more than four times heavier.

The Numbers Are Accelerating

Between 2014 and 2023, the Louisiana Legislative Auditor found that an average of about 445 wells were added to the orphaned list each year. In 2025, more than 1,600 wells were added — more than three times the historical annual average. In just the first months of 2026, another 517 wells have already been added.

Behind those orphaned wells sits an even larger problem: inactive wells not yet orphaned but at risk. The Legislative Auditor found the inactive well count climbed 21.7 percent from 2019 to 2024, reaching 21,629 statewide.

What It Will Cost — and Why the Numbers Differ

The cleanup bill has been reported in different ways, and understanding why requires a distinction between two categories of problem wells.

The first is the orphaned well count itself — the 6,500 wells with no responsible operator. The Louisiana Legislative Auditor places the average plugging cost at $113,000 per well. Multiplied across the current orphaned well list, that produces the widely cited $730 million figure.

But that number covers only orphaned wells. A July 2025 white paper from the LSU Center for Energy Studies, commissioned by the state, calculated that plugging and abandoning both orphaned and idle wells in just the Monroe and Shreveport regulatory districts — two of Louisiana’s three oil and gas districts — would cost approximately $860 million. The Lafayette district, which holds roughly 41 percent of the state’s total orphaned and idle well inventory, was not included in that estimate. When all three districts and all idle wells are accounted for, the total cost to Louisiana taxpayers could well exceed $1 billion.

Since 2023, the state has plugged just 490 orphaned wells at a combined cost of nearly $90 million in state and federal funds — far behind the pace needed to make meaningful progress.

The Oversight System Failed

Louisiana’s attempt to manage the problem through a private industry-led entity collapsed. The Louisiana Oilfield Restoration Association, created in 2019 to collect operator fees and fund plugging activity, was dissolved after a state audit found it falling far behind — and after allegations of self-dealing that included a $780,000 loan to a state official. An audit also found the association’s administrative partner was charging a 36 percent fee on revenues, nearly double the agreed cap. During fiscal years 2020 through 2023, the state plugged 976 orphaned wells through the program. During that same period, nearly 1,700 new orphaned wells were reported — meaning the system was losing ground even while operating.

The Louisiana Legislature responded in 2024 by creating the Natural Resources Trust Authority under the Department of Conservation and Energy, tasked with rebuilding oversight and funding. Financial security requirements — the bonds operators must post to cover future plugging costs — remain a structural weakness. Though coverage rose from 25 percent of wells in 2014 to 74 percent by 2024, the Legislative Auditor found the amounts collected still fall well short of actual plugging costs.

The Bottom Line

Louisiana is producing new orphaned wells faster than it can plug old ones, carrying a per capita orphaned well burden more than four times that of Texas, and facing a total cleanup bill that state and university researchers suggest could exceed $1 billion when all idle and orphaned wells statewide are fully accounted for. The consequences — contaminated groundwater, leaking methane, degraded land — fall most heavily on the rural communities where these wells are concentrated.

Sources: Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy; Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office; LSU Center for Energy Studies, “Orphan and Idle Wells in Louisiana,” July 2025; Texas Railroad Commission; Louisiana Illuminator.

This is story from a book entitled “Moments for Mothers.” The Rogers family was a strong Christian unit. Mr. Rogers took seriously his role as spiritual leader. Often at supper the family would have a Bible quiz or discuss some spiritual truth. One evening the family was discussing what heaven will be like. 7-year-old Jimmy grabbed this subject and ran with it; he had a very creative imagination.

Jimmy said, “When we get to heaven, the big angel will call the roll. He will come to the Rogers family and say, ‘Daddy Rogers’ and Daddy will say ‘Here! ‘. Then the angel will call out, ‘Mommy Rogers,’ and Mommy will say, ‘Here! ” Then the same thing will happen for Susie and Mavis. Then the angel will call my name, “Jimmy Rogers,” and because I’m little and don’t want to be missed, I will jump up and shout real loud, ‘Here!’”

Just a few days later, there was a tragic accident. A car struck down Jimmy as he made his way to the school bus. He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. The family gathered round his bed and kept a prayerful vigil through the night. The doctors told them that he had suffered severe brain damage and could not recover.

Just before dawn, Jimmy seemed to be stirring a bit. The family saw his lips move; just one word was all he uttered before he passed from this life. But oh what comfort and hope that word gave for this grieving family. In a voice clear enough for everybody in the room to hear, Jimmy said, “Here!!” and then he was gone, to another world, to a better world, where a big angel was calling the roll.

We Christians believe this is true. It is why we can live with hope in the midst of such a crazy world. We know that we are all pilgrims, simply passing through this life. Our home is in heaven.

Easter people believe that one day we will all answer, “Here!”

“At what point does daycare cost more than your job is worth?”

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Rachel Wiggins Bays has officially announced her candidacy for District Judge in the Second Judicial District, comprised of Claiborne, Jackson and Bienville Parishes. Bays is seeking the Division “A” seat currently held by Judge Walter May. 

Originally from Shreveport, Rachel moved to Homer in 2017 following her marriage to Claiborne Parish native, Daniel Bays. For more than a decade, Rachel has practiced law in Minden at the law office of John D. and Eric G. Johnson, where she has built a reputation as a dedicated, hardworking and trustworthy attorney.

Rachel believes that decisions made from the bench truly matter, as they have a profound impact on families, businesses, children, law enforcement officers, and both defendants and victims seeking justice. “I have had the opportunity to practice before District Judges all over North Louisiana daily for the past eleven years,” Bays said. “I plan to take the wealth of knowledge I gained from all of those Judges with me to the bench.”

In addition to her career, Rachel is proud to be heavily involved in both her profession and her community. Rachel, Daniel and their daughters, Blair and Bishop are members of First Presbyterian Church in Homer. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Herbert S. Ford Museum and the Homer Country Club. She has also served as a Hearing Committee Member for the Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board and volunteered as an arbitrator for the Bossier City Court’s Small Claims Division. 

If elected, Bays said she will bring practical experience, professionalism and a strong commitment to serving the people of the Second Judicial District.

The election will take place Nov. 3.

Rachel Bays for Judge | District Judge Division A | Claiborne, Jackson, and Bienville Parishes

“It breaks my heart to think about children growing up with so much uncertainty because one parent isn’t paying what they should. When the support doesn’t come, it’s the kids and the custodial parent who carry the burden every single day — and no family should have to live that way.”

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By Tiffany Flournoy

HOMER, La. — A Homer police officer has been arrested following an investigation into allegations that he made an arrest outside his jurisdiction and without proper legal authority, officials said in a news release Monday.

The Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office said it opened a criminal investigation March 20, 2026, after receiving a complaint accusing Officer William Fitzpatrick of conducting an arrest outside the Homer city limits.

Investigators determined that Fitzpatrick did not properly obtain an arrest warrant for the individual he detained, according to the sheriff’s office. Authorities also found that he did not secure a search warrant before entering the residence where the individual was taken into custody and failed to book the person into the Claiborne Parish Detention Center as required by law.

The sheriff’s office later obtained an arrest warrant for Fitzpatrick through Louisiana’s Second Judicial District Court. He was charged with simple kidnapping, false imprisonment and unauthorized entry into an inhabited dwelling.

Fitzpatrick surrendered to the Claiborne Parish Detention Center on March 28 and was booked before posting an $85,000 bond. 

Claiborne Parish Sheriff Sam Dowies said he is committed to enforcing the law and holding individuals accountable.

“All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law,” the sheriff’s office said.

Colby Bowman, a lifelong Jackson Parish resident and experienced attorney, announces his candidacy for District Attorney of the 2^nd Judicial District. Bowman vows to restore integrity, enforce accountability, and put public safety first while maintaining an open-door policy long forgotten within the prosecutor’s office.

Bowman has served as an attorney for ten years since earning his Juris Doctorate from Southern University in Baton Rouge. He is the only candidate in the race actively practicing in all three parishes and with experience covering the full scope of the responsibilities of the District Attorney.

This unparalleled experience is matched by Bowman’s strong work ethic. He said, “Our community needs fresh leadership that is tirelessly committed to public safety. Families in our community deserve safe streets, and our law enforcement officers deserve a true collaborative partner in the District Attorney’s seat. Our system doesn’t work if our agencies don’t work together.”

He continued, “Justice is not being served in our neighborhoods under the status quo. Trials are being lost, dangerous narcotics are infiltrating our neighborhoods and criminals are walking free – just to leave our children in harm’s way. I pledge a new era of leadership and accountability that will keep our streets safer and prevent violent crime.“ As your District Attorney, I will relentlessly pursue solutions to the troubling waves of crime being committed by young adults and even minors. I have zero tolerance for violence between and against our children.  I will force unconcerned parents to answer for their children’s truancy from school. This will narrow the gateway that leads to crime at earlier ages, keeping more young people on the pathway to success,” Bowman said.

Bowman’s extensive experience, knowledge, and relationships within the narcotics enforcement community make him uniquely qualified to serve as District Attorney. “I’m not just an attorney. I’ve lost clients and friends far too early, seeing first-hand the worst of the cancer spread by drugs, violence, and abuse in our communities. We cannot be complacent with burying our children.”   

Beyond his legal career, Bowman serves as a volunteer firefighter with two departments, serving as the vice chairman of his local fire board. He routinely volunteers legal services to various boards and public entities. For five years he has taught Louisiana Tech University students, instilling practical skills and ethical leadership. Additionally, Bowman is a member of Masonic Lodge # 280 of Jonesboro.

Bowman and his wife, Lauren Dark Bowman, a registered nurse, are raising two daughters – Connor Wren (1) and Ava (15) and enjoy spending time outdoors and engaging in community life.

Colby Bowman invites all residents committed to justice, accountability, and public safety to support his campaign to revitalize the DA’s office and ensure a stronger, safer 2^nd Judicial District.

Contact:

Colby Bowman
318-259-6200
colby@bowman.law

Facebook: Colby Bowman for District Attorney
http://www.ColbyBowmanForDA.com

Paid for by Friends of Colby L. Bowman

“Are you finding it harder to set and enforce rules around your children’s screen time and social media use? How do you balance keeping them safe while giving them enough freedom to learn responsibility?”

 See what Ida says 

“How do I take our money off ‘subscription auto‑pilot’ and put it back under family control?”
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