A Homer native whose career in orthopaedic surgery earned national and international recognition while maintaining deep ties to his Claiborne Parish roots has been selected as a 2026 Louisiana Legend.

Louisiana Legends Fest announced Dr. John Robert Moreland as one of this year’s honorees, recognizing a career that has combined medical achievement with an ongoing commitment to preserving local history and family heritage.

Born and raised in Homer, Moreland grew up alongside four siblings and worked in his father’s Piggly Wiggly supermarket. He later graduated as valedictorian of Homer High School before leaving Louisiana to pursue his education and medical career.

Moreland earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Baylor University in Waco, Texas, followed by his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. His training continued at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center and UCLA, followed by specialized fellowships in joint replacement surgery at UCLA and in London, England.

Moreland later joined the orthopaedic faculty at UCLA, where he became nationally and internationally known for hip and knee replacement surgery, particularly complex revision procedures.

His patients included individuals seeking relief from debilitating joint conditions as well as prominent figures in the entertainment industry, contributing to his reputation as a “surgeon to the stars.”

Moreland also developed specialized surgical instruments for difficult hip and knee revision procedures. The Moreland Revision Instruments became recognized tools in orthopaedic surgery and have been used in major hospitals across the United States.

Despite a career that took him far from north Louisiana, Moreland maintained strong connections to Claiborne Parish. His family’s roots in the parish date to the early 1850s, when the Moreland family migrated from Georgia to Claiborne Parish. The historic Moreland Homeplace remains one of the parish’s surviving historic residences associated with generations of the family.
Moreland acquired the family homeplace from his uncle, S.S. Moreland Jr., in 1991 and has since devoted significant effort to preserving and restoring the property.

His preservation work expanded in 2025 when he became involved in the cleanup and restoration of Old Homer Cemetery, a historic burial ground established by the Claiborne Parish Police Jury in 1850. The cemetery contains the graves of Moreland ancestors as well as generations of Homer residents. The last burial there took place in 1995.

Louisiana Legends Fest said Moreland’s selection recognizes both sides of his legacy — a medical career devoted to helping patients regain mobility and independence and his continued dedication to preserving the history of the community where his story began.

“The medical profession knows Dr. John Robert Moreland for his contributions to orthopaedic surgery. His patients know him for restoring mobility and independence. His hometown knows him as one of its own,” festival organizers shared.

Dr. John Robert Moreland will be honored as a 2026 Louisiana Legend on Oct. 17 in Homer, bringing the recognition back to the Claiborne Parish community where his journey began.

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The Homer Fire Department has achieved the highest fire protection classification available in Louisiana, earning a Class 1 Public Protection Classification rating through the Property Insurance Association of Louisiana.

Department officials announced the accomplishment Aug. 31, calling the designation a major achievement for Homer firefighters, department leadership, town officials and the community.

Public Protection Classification ratings range from Class 1 to Class 10, with Class 1 representing the highest level of fire protection and Class 10 the lowest.

The rating evaluates several components of a community’s ability to provide fire protection, including firefighter staffing and training, apparatus and equipment, emergency communications and dispatch, water supply and hydrant systems, fire prevention efforts and overall emergency response capabilities.

According to the department, achieving the Class 1 designation demonstrates that Homer has reached an exceptionally high level of preparedness and fire protection capability.

The improved rating could also have a financial impact for Homer homeowners and businesses. Fire protection classifications are among the factors insurance companies may use when determining property insurance rates, and an improved classification can potentially result in lower fire insurance premiums.

Residents and business owners are encouraged to contact their insurance agents or companies to determine whether Homer’s new Class 1 designation will affect their individual policies.

The accomplishment is particularly significant for the Homer Fire Department because of its volunteer status. The department said it believes it is one of only two volunteer fire departments in Louisiana to achieve a Class 1 rating.

Louisiana has more than 550 career, combination and volunteer fire departments, according to information shared by the department, making the state’s highest classification a distinction achieved by only a small percentage.

Fire officials credited the achievement to years of work by firefighters who have responded to emergencies, completed training, maintained equipment and dedicated their time to protecting the Homer community.

The department also thanked firefighters’ families, Town of Homer leadership, neighboring fire departments, mutual-aid partners and residents for their continued support.

“We are proud to serve Homer. We are proud of our firefighters. And we are proud to be a Class 1 fire department,” the Homer Fire Department stated.

The department described the new rating as not only recognition of its firefighters, but also of a community that has invested in providing residents with the highest level of fire protection possible.

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A new Louisiana law that took effect Aug. 1, 2026, increases the potential criminal penalties for possessing marijuana on or near school property, including possible jail time and fines.

Under Act 305 of the 2026 Regular Session, possession of marijuana in a designated school zone can carry a penalty of up to one year of imprisonment, with or without hard labor, and a fine of up to $1,000.

The law applies on school property, within 2,000 feet of school property and on school buses and covers public and nonpublic elementary, middle and high schools in Louisiana.

The change represents a significant increase in potential consequences for marijuana possession within those areas. According to information released by the State of Louisiana, prior to Aug. 1, possession of 14 grams or less carried a fine of up to $100. Act 305 created a new penalty specifically addressing marijuana possession within a school zone.

The law also specifically addresses smoking and vaping. A provision added under Act 305 applies to individuals who violate drug laws while smoking, vaping or otherwise using a controlled dangerous substance in covered locations. THC vape pens are included.

Another important provision is that a person does not have to know they are within the designated school zone for the law to apply.

Under the statute, lack of knowledge that an offense occurred on or within 2,000 feet of school property is not a defense.

The possibility of a sentence involving hard labor also creates what state officials describe as felony-level exposure, since Louisiana defines a felony as an offense for which an individual may be sentenced to imprisonment at hard labor.

Students may face consequences through the school system in addition to any criminal proceedings. For students in grades six through 12, a first occurrence involving marijuana possession at school, on a school bus or at a school event may result in a recommendation for expulsion. A second or subsequent occurrence requires expulsion for at least two complete school semesters and referral to the district attorney, according to the state notice.

The new provisions apply statewide and are intended to strengthen restrictions on controlled substances in and around Louisiana schools.

With the law now in effect, residents should also be aware of the size of the covered area. A 2,000-foot school zone extends approximately 667 yards — more than one-third of a mile — from school property.

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. — Hot September weather will continue across Claiborne Parish through the weekend, with afternoon highs reaching the mid-90s and only limited chances for rain, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 96 degrees. Heat index values could climb as high as 103 degrees, making it feel even hotter during the afternoon. Winds will be calm before becoming southerly around 5 mph. Wednesday night will be mostly clear with a low near 72.

Thursday will remain sunny and hot with another high near 96 degrees. Partly cloudy skies are expected Thursday night as temperatures fall to around 72.

A small chance for rain returns Friday, with a slight chance of showers and the possibility of thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Otherwise, skies will be mostly sunny with a high near 95 degrees. The chance of precipitation is 20%. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 72.

Saturday will bring more sunshine and heat, with a high near 96 degrees. A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms will develop after 1 p.m. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a low near 72.

The pattern will continue Sunday, when mostly sunny and hot conditions are expected with a high near 95 degrees. There will be a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms during the day before skies become mostly clear Sunday night. The overnight low will fall to around 71 degrees.

With heat index values potentially reaching 103 degrees Wednesday and afternoon temperatures remaining in the mid-90s through the weekend, residents working or spending time outdoors are encouraged to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks and avoid prolonged strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.

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Claiborne Parish is preparing for a turn in the statewide spotlight after being selected for Season 2 of “LA 64,” a Louisiana Public Broadcasting travel series highlighting the people, places and experiences that make each of Louisiana’s 64 parishes unique.

The upcoming feature will provide an opportunity to showcase Claiborne Parish as a travel destination while sharing the stories, traditions, attractions and people that give the parish its character.

The Claiborne Parish Tourism Commission Board was recognized for its continued efforts to strengthen and promote tourism in the parish. The selection also came with assistance from Sharon Calcote with the Louisiana Office of Tourism and support from Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser.

Attention is now turning to what should be featured when the “LA 64” production team arrives.

Host and producer Karen LeBlanc is seeking suggestions from the community for interesting people, unique places, local traditions, events, businesses, historic sites, outdoor experiences and other stories that help define Claiborne Parish.

Residents who know of a hidden gem, longtime local tradition, fascinating person or destination that deserves statewide attention are encouraged to submit their ideas directly to LeBlanc.

Filming is tentatively scheduled for April 5-11, 2027, giving the production team time to develop a feature that represents different parts of the parish and the experiences available to visitors.

Suggestions can be submitted to LeBlanc at karen@la64.com.

The selection gives Claiborne Parish an opportunity to introduce communities across Louisiana to its history, culture, outdoor recreation, local businesses and residents while potentially encouraging new visitors to explore the area.

Community participation will play an important role in determining which stories make it to the screen, and residents are being encouraged to help ensure the upcoming episode captures what makes Claiborne Parish special.

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The Claiborne Parish Fair is approaching, bringing a week of livestock exhibitions, youth competitions and family-friendly activities to the Haynesville Fair Barn beginning Sept. 28.

The annual fair provides an opportunity for local 4-H members and other youth exhibitors to showcase the animals, projects and skills they have worked to develop throughout the year while celebrating agriculture and community involvement across Claiborne Parish.

Livestock competition will begin Monday, Sept. 28, at 6 p.m. with the Lamb and Goat Show. Exhibitors will present animals they have raised and managed while developing skills in animal care, responsibility and record keeping.

Competition continues Tuesday, Sept. 29, at 6 p.m. with the Poultry, Rabbit, Swine and Cattle Shows, featuring livestock projects from parish youth.

The fair will shift to an evening of music and fellowship on Wednesday, Sept. 30, with Gospel Night beginning at 6 p.m.

One of the week’s major events will take place Thursday, Oct. 1, when the community gathers for the Livestock Supper and Auction. Supper will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the auction at 7 p.m.

Community members, businesses and other supporters are encouraged to participate in the auction and support local exhibitors.

Money earned through the auction helps young people continue their livestock projects while gaining agricultural, financial and leadership experience.

The fair will offer several additional opportunities for young people to participate. Entries for the Pumpkin Decorating Contest must be submitted by 4 p.m. Sept. 28, with painted pumpkins displayed during the fair.

Activities continue Saturday, Oct. 3, beginning with a Pet Show at 10 a.m. Participants will have opportunities to showcase their pets’ talents, costumes and showmanship abilities. A Costume Contest will follow at 1 p.m., with awards recognizing creativity, originality and overall presentation.

Organizers are encouraging residents throughout Claiborne Parish to attend the fair and support the young people who have spent countless hours preparing their livestock, projects and exhibits.

Those interested in supporting the fair financially may make checks payable to the Claiborne 4-H Foundation and deliver them to the Claiborne Parish LSU AgCenter office at 507 W. Main St. in Homer.

For additional information about the Claiborne Parish Fair and its events, contact the Claiborne Parish LSU AgCenter 4-H Office at 318-927-3110 or email dhightower@agcenter.lsu.edu.

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The 2026 high school football season continued Friday night with Claiborne Parish teams taking the field in their latest scheduled matchups, including action for Homer, Haynesville and Claiborne Academy.

Claiborne Academy remained unbeaten, picking up the parish’s lone victory of the week with a 38-16 win over Franklin Academy.

The Rebels improved to 3-0 on the season with the victory. Claiborne Academy recorded 253 yards through the air and on the ground, including 133 passing yards and 120 rushing yards. Maddox Gaston, Bryce Hardin and Kade Suggs were later recognized as the team’s players of the game.

Homer High School opened its regular season on the road against Haughton, falling 42-30 to the Buccaneers. Despite the loss, the Pelicans produced a strong passing performance, finishing with 366 passing yards. Homer will look to rebound when the Pelicans travel to Minden for their next scheduled game on Friday, Sept. 11.

Haynesville High School also opened the season against a tough opponent, with the Golden Tornado falling 42-6 to Ouachita Christian. Haynesville will head across the state line for its next matchup, traveling to Junction City, Arkansas, on Friday, Sept. 11.

The opening week left Claiborne Parish with one undefeated team as Claiborne Academy continued its strong start, while Homer and Haynesville will both be looking for their first victories of the young season.

Claiborne Academy is scheduled to travel to Lee Academy on Sept. 11. Homer will visit Minden, while Haynesville travels to Junction City.

The season will soon bring one of the parish’s biggest rivalry games, with Homer and Haynesville scheduled to meet Sept. 18 in Haynesville.

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Two Homer High School students are leaving a colorful and lasting mark on their community after volunteering their artistic talents to help create a new mural in historic downtown Homer.

La’Marriantae Ball and Cindy Cripe, students in Mrs. Rhonda Porter’s Talented Art program, recently helped paint several of the colorful flowers incorporated into the mural’s design.

The students were among members of the Talented Art program who volunteered their time to assist with the downtown project, combining their creativity with an opportunity to give back to the Homer community.

For Ball and Cripe, the project provided a unique chance to take their artwork beyond the classroom. The flowers they painted will remain a permanent part of the completed mural, allowing residents and visitors to see their contributions for years to come.

Homer High School recognized the students for sharing their talents and taking part in a project designed to add color and character to the historic downtown area.

The new mural can be found beside State Farm and across from the Homer Post Office.

Through projects like the downtown mural, students are not only developing their artistic abilities but also learning how their talents can contribute to and become part of the community around them.
Great job, Pelicans!

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Gladys Sanford
June 20, 1945 – August 26, 2026
Arrangements: TBA

Curtis R. Wade, Sr.
October 24, 1955 – September 2, 2026
Visitation: Friday, September 11 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at King’s Funeral Home.
Services: Saturday, September 12 at 1:00 p.m. at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, 729 Lodge Street, Homer.

Donald Ray Williams, Sr.
June 17, 1944 – September 7, 2026
Visitation: Thursday, September 10 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 405 E. 5th Street, Homer.
Services: Thursday, September 10 at 2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Homer.

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

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South Claiborne Water System has launched a new website aimed at making it easier for customers to stay informed and manage their water accounts.

According to South Claiborne Water, the new website provides customers with access to several online services and resources, including the ability to sign up for alerts, pay water bills and receive the latest news and updates from the water system.

The website is designed to provide customers with a convenient location for accessing important information and staying up to date on announcements that could affect their water service.

South Claiborne Water officials are encouraging customers to visit the new site, explore the available features and sign up for alerts to help ensure they receive important notifications.

The new online resource is part of the water system’s effort to make information and customer services more convenient and accessible to the South Claiborne community.

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Work on the bridge replacement project at Caney Creek on Louisiana Highway 146 is continuing to move forward, according to an update from the Claiborne Parish Police Jury.

As of Aug. 31, all box culverts had been installed at the project site and were ready for the next stage of construction.

The Police Jury provided the update Sunday as work continues on the bridge replacement project.

Additional information regarding the next phase of construction or a projected completion date was not provided in the update.

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Organizers of the 2026 Miss Louisiana Legends Fest Pageant have announced a date change for this year’s event, with contestants now set to take the stage on Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Claiborne Academy Gym.

Held in conjunction with Louisiana Legends Fest, the pageant will celebrate confidence, talent and community spirit while providing participants an opportunity to gain stage experience, build friendships and represent their communities.

Competition is open to contestants ages 0 through 18, along with a Ms./Mrs. Division for participants ages 19 and older.

The pageant will also feature a special Angel Division, welcoming contestants of all abilities, including individuals with physical, developmental or sensory needs.

The $75 entry fee includes pageant entry, beauty wear, side awards, photogenic eligibility and an official Louisiana Legends Fest Pageant T-shirt.

The deadline to register is Sept. 26.

Those interested in participating can register through the Louisiana Legends Fest website. Questions may be directed to Pageant Director Taylor Alayne Bailey at (318) 801-5168 or sassybellepageants@gmail.com.

The Miss Louisiana Legends Fest Pageant is sponsored by Killgore’s Pharmacy and Gifts.

Organizers are encouraging families to take part in the event and give contestants the opportunity to step into the spotlight while celebrating what makes each participant unique.

Pageant Date: Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026

Location: Claiborne Academy Gym

Registration Deadline: Sept. 26

Entry Fee: $75

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. — Claiborne Parish residents can expect a hot stretch of weather through the Labor Day weekend, with afternoon temperatures climbing into the upper 90s and only limited chances for rain.

According to the National Weather Service, Wednesday will be sunny and hot with a high near 96 degrees. Heat index values could reach as high as 104 degrees. Winds will be calm before becoming southeast around 5 mph during the afternoon.

Wednesday night will be mostly clear with a low near 74.

Thursday will remain sunny and hot with temperatures reaching around 97 degrees. Mostly clear conditions are expected Thursday night with a low near 74.

A small chance of rain returns Friday, with a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms developing after 1 p.m. Otherwise, skies will remain sunny with a high near 97. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 73.

The chance for afternoon storms increases slightly on Saturday. A slight chance of showers is possible earlier in the day, followed by a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. The high will reach around 98 degrees. Saturday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 73.

Sunday is expected to be mostly sunny and hot with another high near 98 degrees. Sunday night will be partly cloudy with temperatures falling to around 73.

The hot weather will continue into the holiday, with Labor Day forecast to be sunny and hot with a high near 98 degrees.

Overall, Claiborne Parish can expect highs ranging from 96 to 98 degrees from Wednesday through Labor Day, with Friday and Saturday providing the only notable chances for showers and thunderstorms in the forecast provided by the National Weather Service.

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The LSU AgCenter will host a “Soils to Harvest” educational program Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Hill Farm Research Station in Homer.

The event, centered around the theme “Healthy Soils. Bountiful Harvests. Stronger Communities,” will feature presentations on cool-season herbs and vegetables, fall color and food preparation.

The program will be held at the Hill Farm Research Station, 11959 LA-9 in Homer. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m., with presentations beginning at 9 a.m.

Four speakers are scheduled to participate in the program.

Mark Wilson, Associate County Agent for Caddo and Bossier parishes, will discuss cool-season herbs.

John Monzingo, Assistant County Agent for Claiborne and Webster parishes, will present a program on cool-season vegetables.

Kyleigh Bass, Assistant County Agent for Lincoln and Bienville parishes, will focus on fall color.

Dr. Shakera Williams, NHC Agent for Claiborne and Webster parishes, will provide a food demonstration.

Organizers are inviting area residents to attend the program to learn more about growing and cultivating for the upcoming season.

Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities. Those needing accommodations should contact John Monzingo at 318-371-1371 or 318-927-3110 no later than two weeks before accommodations are needed.

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Claiborne Academy continued its undefeated start to the football season Friday night, pulling away in the second half to defeat Hermitage, 70-46.

The Hermits stayed within reach of the Rebels through the first half, but Claiborne Academy took control after halftime to secure its second consecutive victory and improve to 2-0 on the season.

Quarterback Craten Ware led the Rebels’ offensive attack, throwing for 350 yards and six touchdowns while completing passes at an average of 12.5 yards per attempt. Ware threw one interception in the contest.

Ware has now thrown at least four touchdown passes in each of Claiborne Academy’s games this season.

Nate Smith was another major contributor for the Rebels, finishing with 211 receiving yards and four touchdowns.

Claiborne Academy also produced its strongest rushing performance of the young season. The Rebels accumulated 201 yards on the ground, their highest rushing total through the first two games.

The combination of a 350-yard passing performance and 201 rushing yards helped power the Rebels to the 70-point offensive showing.

With back-to-back victories to begin the season, Claiborne Academy will now head on the road to face Franklin Academy at 7 p.m. Friday.

Stats: Maxpreps.com

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Dove hunters across Louisiana can officially head back into the fields this weekend as the state’s 2026 dove hunting season opens Saturday, Sept. 5, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

The season is divided into North and South zones, with each featuring three hunting segments extending into January.

In the North Zone, dove hunting will be open Sept. 5-27, Oct. 10-Nov. 15 and Dec. 19-Jan. 17, 2027.

The South Zone will be open Sept. 5-20, Oct. 17-Nov. 29 and Dec. 12-Jan. 10, 2027.

Hunters 18 and older must have a basic Louisiana hunting license and Harvest Information Program certification, commonly known as HIP certification, to participate. Youth hunters age 17 and younger are not required to have a hunting license or HIP certification to hunt dove.

For opening day, LDWF will have lease fields available in DeRidder and Colfax. Dove hunting opportunities will also be available on several Wildlife Management Areas across Louisiana.

The statewide opener marks the beginning of a popular fall tradition for Louisiana sportsmen, with dove season often providing an opportunity for families and friends to gather in the field as hunting activity begins to pick up across the state.

Hunters are encouraged to review all applicable regulations before heading out and to make firearm and field safety a priority throughout the season.

The 2026 dove season officially opens statewide Saturday, Sept. 5.

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Gladys Sanford
June 20, 1945 — August 26, 2026
TBA

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

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Three juveniles were charged following investigations into vehicle burglaries and thefts at the Homer Golf Course during August, according to the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The Sheriff’s Office said deputies responded to numerous reported crimes within the town limits of Homer during the first two weeks of August 2026.

On Aug. 9, CPSO responded to the Homer Golf Course, located at 101 Country Club Circle, after receiving reports that at least seven vehicles had been entered without authorization. At least three vehicles were reportedly burglarized and firearms were stolen.

CPSO subsequently launched an investigation into the vehicle burglaries and theft of firearms.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, community member Bennie Holyfield, who had recently qualified to run for the elected position of Homer Chief of Police, assisted investigators by introducing them to a cooperative citizen who provided information relevant to the investigation.

Investigators then identified persons of interest believed to have been involved in the vehicle burglaries and thefts.

CPSO ultimately identified two juveniles who investigators said were responsible for the crimes committed at the Homer Golf Course on Aug. 9. Both juveniles resided within the town limits of Homer.

The Sheriff’s Office said the parents or guardians of both juveniles fully cooperated with investigators.

During the investigation, CPSO recovered three firearms that had been stolen during the Aug. 9 incident.

Investigators also learned of a previously reported vehicle burglary and criminal damage incident at the Homer Golf Course that occurred Aug. 1. The Homer Police Department had responded to that incident.

CPSO investigators identified a juvenile suspect in the Aug. 1 incident and subsequently linked that suspect with another juvenile who had been identified as being involved in the Aug. 9 incident. The parent or guardian of the third juvenile also fully cooperated with investigators.

Following the investigations, CPSO charged three juveniles with criminal offenses. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the cases will be addressed in the State of Louisiana Second Judicial District juvenile court.

Claiborne Parish Sheriff Sam Dowies reminded residents to remain aware of crimes of opportunity and recommended that citizens lock their vehicles, secure valuables out of plain sight and report suspicious activity to law enforcement.

Dowies also commended CPSO deputies for recovering stolen property and solving the crimes.

“Holding those individuals responsible for the crimes and returning the victims their personal property is one of the goals of the CPSO,” Dowies said.

The sheriff also recognized the importance of cooperation from community members and relatives of the accused juveniles.

Dowies said he believes it is crucial for each citizen to “Do the right thing,” adding that when citizens do their part, it helps make Claiborne Parish safer for everyone.

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By Tiffany Flournoy

HOMER, La. — The Claiborne Parish School Board approved agreements aimed at providing school resource officers at campuses in Summerfield and Haynesville during its regular meeting, while also receiving an update on the district’s finances and recognizing two students for their achievements.

Board members unanimously approved the minutes from the Finance Committee Meeting and the Regular Called Meeting held July 9.

The board also recognized two students who will advance to national competition in October. Kathy Babers, representing U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson’s office, presented Certificates of Congressional Commendation to Azaiyah Franklin, who placed first in the Animal Systems Division, and Cayden Franklin, who placed first in the Social Science Division.

Superintendent Chris Brooks introduced administrators assigned to campuses throughout the district. According to the meeting, several of the administrators were returning in interim roles, while others had transitioned to different positions or schools.

The board unanimously approved a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office for a school resource officer at Summerfield.

A separate Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Town of Haynesville was also unanimously approved to provide a school resource officer for the Haynesville campuses.

In other business, the board unanimously approved a Paraprofessional Activity Reimbursement Stipend and a Memorandum of Understanding with Webster Parish Head Start.

The board also received a review of the district’s July financials from Micki Turner. Turner told board members that auditors had recently visited the district and are expected to return in October to complete their review.

The board’s next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 10

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. — Hot temperatures will continue across Claiborne Parish through the weekend, while chances for showers and thunderstorms return Wednesday night and Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 99 degrees. Southwest winds will be around 5 mph. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms and a low around 74.

Thursday will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 96. There is a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Thursday night will be partly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. and a low around 71.

Friday will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 97. Friday night will be mostly clear with a low around 70.

Saturday will be sunny and hot with a high near 98. Mostly clear conditions are expected Saturday night with a low around 71.

Sunday will remain sunny and hot with a high near 98 degrees.

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Haynesville native and retired NFL standout Demetric Evans returned to his hometown July 30 to give back to the next generation of athletes during the 20th Annual 92 Blessings Football Camp at Haynesville High School.

The free camp brought Haynesville athletes together for an afternoon of football instruction, mentorship and encouragement led by Evans, whose professional football career included time with the Washington Redskins, San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys.

Following his playing career, Evans has remained involved in professional football through his work with the NFL Players Association, where he helps support current and former NFL players.

This year’s 92 Blessings Football Camp was sponsored by Claiborne Aware in partnership with Claiborne Memorial Medical Center and the Claiborne Healthcare Foundation.

Along with developing players’ skills on the field, organizers placed an emphasis on health and safety. With temperatures climbing throughout the day, Dr. Alex Hart, a second-year Family Medicine resident at Claiborne Memorial Medical Center, remained on site to monitor participants and help keep athletes safe in the extreme heat.

For Evans, the annual camp provides an opportunity to return to the community where his own football journey began.

“Haynesville has always been known for producing tough, disciplined football players, and this group is no different,” Evans said.

“I believe Tornado football has all the ingredients for another outstanding season. If they continue to work hard, stay focused and play for each other, I expect they’ll make this community proud once again.”

The camp comes as Haynesville High School continues one of the most successful football traditions in Louisiana. The Tornadoes have captured 18 state championships, including an undefeated state championship season in 2025.

Now in its 20th year, Evans’ 92 Blessings Football Camp continues to combine that football tradition with mentorship and an emphasis on the well-being of young athletes.

Organizers said the partnership among 92 Blessings, Claiborne Aware, Claiborne Memorial Medical Center and the Claiborne Healthcare Foundation reflects a shared commitment to supporting the physical and mental well-being of local youth while encouraging healthy lifestyles and positive mentorship.

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Hunters hoping for an opportunity to participate in Louisiana’s 2026 black bear hunting season have only a few days left to enter the state’s permit lottery.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is reminding hunters that the deadline to apply for the 2026 Louisiana Black Bear Hunting Lottery is Friday, Aug. 28.

This year, 42 black bear tags will be available through the lottery, with hunting opportunities offered across all Louisiana Black Bear Management Areas.

The 2026 black bear hunting season is scheduled for Dec. 5-20.

Applicants must have a valid Louisiana black bear hunting license before submitting a lottery application. The application fee is $50 and is non-refundable.

Bear harvest permits are divided into three categories: WMA, Private Landowner and General.

Hunters selected through the lottery will also be required to attend an LDWF bear hunter training course before participating in the hunt. Training courses are scheduled for Oct. 16, 17, 22 and 23. According to LDWF, failure to attend the required training could result in forfeiture of the permit.

Louisiana’s black bear hunting season returned in 2024 following decades without a regulated season. The hunt is managed through a limited permit system as part of the state’s black bear management program.

Hunters interested in entering the 2026 lottery should complete the application process before the Aug. 28 deadline.

Additional information, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ Louisiana Black Bear Hunting Lottery webpage.

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