A former employee of Claiborne Memorial Medical Center (CMMC) has been arrested on a felony theft charge following an investigation into allegations of falsified work hours, according to the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation began October 12, 2026, when an employee of Claiborne Memorial Medical Center contacted the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office to report a suspected theft.

Investigators subsequently launched an inquiry into the allegations and determined that a former hospital employee had allegedly reported hours that were not actually worked, resulting in compensation for time investigators believe had not been earned.

On October 29, a Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office detective obtained an arrest warrant through the Second Judicial District Court. Judge Glen Fallin authorized the warrant for Dakota Faulk of Claiborne Parish on a charge of felony theft under Louisiana Revised Statute 14:67.

According to the sheriff’s office, Faulk voluntarily surrendered to authorities on November 3, 2026, at the Claiborne Parish Detention Center, where Faulk was booked and incarcerated.

The sheriff’s office did not disclose the total amount of money allegedly obtained through the falsified work hours or specify the length of time during which the alleged theft occurred.

The case stems from the investigation into the former employee’s reported work hours and compensation received from Claiborne Memorial Medical Center.

No additional information regarding bond or future court proceedings was provided in the release.

All individuals accused of a crime are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. – Residents across Claiborne Parish can expect sunny skies and warm temperatures for Veterans Day before a gradual cooling trend brings more seasonable fall weather heading into the weekend.

According to the National Weather Service forecast, afternoon temperatures will reach around 80 degrees Wednesday before dropping into the mid-60s by Friday and Saturday. Overnight temperatures will also become noticeably cooler, with lows falling into the upper 30s by Friday night.

Mostly dry conditions are expected through Saturday, with a slight chance of showers returning Sunday.

Veterans Day – Wednesday, November 11

Veterans Day will bring sunny skies and warm afternoon temperatures, with a high near 80 degrees.

Winds will initially be calm before becoming westerly at around 5 mph during the morning.

Wednesday night will feature clear skies and a low around 49 degrees. West winds around 5 mph will become calm overnight.

Thursday, November 12

Thursday will bring another sunny day across Claiborne Parish, with afternoon temperatures reaching approximately 73 degrees. Northwest winds will range from 5 to 10 mph.

Clear skies are expected Thursday night as temperatures fall to around 42 degrees.

Friday, November 13

Friday will feature sunny skies and noticeably cooler afternoon temperatures, with a high near 66 degrees.

Mostly clear conditions will continue Friday night, with temperatures dropping to around 38 degrees, making it the coldest night of the forecast period.

Saturday, November 14

Saturday will bring sunny skies and pleasant fall conditions, with an afternoon high near 64 degrees.

Partly cloudy skies are expected Saturday night, with an overnight low around 40 degrees.

Sunday, November 15

Sunday will bring partly sunny skies and a slight chance of rain as moisture begins returning to the region.

The National Weather Service forecasts a 20% chance of showers, with afternoon temperatures reaching approximately 64 degrees.

Sunday night will be partly cloudy, with a 20% chance of showers. Overnight temperatures are expected to fall to around 42 degrees.

Monday, November 16

The new workweek will begin with mostly sunny skies and slightly warmer temperatures, with an afternoon high near 66 degrees. Conditions are expected to remain generally pleasant as Claiborne Parish residents return to their weekday routines.

Looking Ahead

Claiborne Parish residents can anticipate favorable weather for Veterans Day observances, outdoor activities and weekend events.

Wednesday will be the warmest day of the forecast period, with temperatures reaching 80 degrees before a noticeable cooling trend brings afternoon highs into the 60s by Friday.

The most significant temperature changes will occur during the overnight hours, particularly Friday night when temperatures are expected to fall to around 38 degrees. Residents heading outdoors during the early morning or evening hours may want to have jackets available.

While most of the forecast period will remain dry, residents should be aware of the slight chance of showers developing Sunday and continuing into Sunday night.

Mostly sunny skies are expected to return Monday, with temperatures remaining in the mid-60s.

The National Weather Service encourages residents to monitor updated forecasts as temperatures and precipitation chances may change.

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. – Following several evenings of heavy fog across the area, the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office is reminding motorists to exercise caution and follow recommended safety practices when traveling in low-visibility conditions.

In a November 5 announcement, the sheriff’s office shared driving safety recommendations from the National Weather Service (NWS), emphasizing the importance of slowing down, maintaining a safe following distance and using proper vehicle lighting when fog develops.

Fog can significantly reduce visibility, making it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, road markings, intersections and potential hazards. These conditions can become particularly dangerous on rural highways and parish roads where lighting may be limited.

According to the National Weather Service, motorists should reduce their speed and allow additional travel time when encountering fog. Drivers should also avoid sudden braking or abrupt changes in direction whenever possible.

One of the most important recommendations is to use low-beam headlights rather than high beams. Low-beam headlights help illuminate the roadway while ensuring a vehicle’s taillights are visible to drivers approaching from behind.

High-beam headlights should never be used in fog because the light reflects off moisture in the air, creating glare that can further reduce visibility.

Drivers with fog lights are encouraged to use them when appropriate.

The sheriff’s office also reminds motorists to maintain extra distance between vehicles to allow more time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic conditions.

When visibility becomes limited, drivers should use roadway markings as a guide to help remain in their proper travel lanes.
What to Do When Fog Becomes Too Dense to Drive
The National Weather Service advises motorists that when fog becomes so thick that visibility approaches zero, the safest option is to stop driving until conditions improve.

Drivers should first activate their hazard lights and carefully move to a safe location, such as a parking lot or driveway, away from moving traffic.

If no parking lot or driveway is available, motorists should pull as far off the roadway as safely possible.

Once stopped, drivers should leave their hazard lights flashing, turn off other vehicle lights, engage the emergency brake and remove their foot from the brake pedal.

Keeping brake lights off while parked helps prevent approaching motorists from mistakenly believing the stopped vehicle is traveling in an active traffic lane.
Safety Remains a Priority
With foggy conditions affecting travel throughout the week, the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office is encouraging residents to remain alert and make safe driving decisions.

Motorists traveling during the early morning, evening and overnight hours should be especially mindful of changing visibility and roadway conditions.

The sheriff’s office emphasized that taking a few extra precautions can help reduce the risk of crashes and protect everyone traveling on parish roads.

Residents are encouraged to monitor weather conditions, allow additional travel time and avoid unnecessary travel when visibility becomes dangerously limited.

The Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office reminds drivers that slowing down, staying alert and knowing when to pull over can make a critical difference in keeping themselves and others safe.

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. – High school football teams across Claiborne Parish experienced a mixture of victories and setbacks Friday, November 6, as the 2026 regular season concluded and postseason competition continued.

The Homer Pelicans delivered another impressive performance, defeating North Caddo 40–6 to extend their winning streak to four games. The Haynesville Golden Tornado saw its seven-game winning streak end with a 28–3 loss to Kentwood, while the Claiborne Academy Rebels fell 42–14 to River Oaks in the MAIS Class 1A Division I quarterfinals.

Despite the losses, both Homer and Haynesville secured positions in the Louisiana High School Athletic Association playoffs and will return to action this week.

All three games were played Friday, November 6.

Homer Pelicans Defeat North Caddo 40–6, Extend Winning Streak
The Homer Pelicans continued their late-season surge Friday night with a commanding 40–6 victory over the North Caddo Titans in Vivian.

The victory marked Homer’s fourth consecutive win and improved the Pelicans’ overall record to 5–5.

Senior quarterback Kevin Williams led the offensive effort, throwing for 317 yards and five touchdowns while completing 75% of his passes.

Receiver Jerzyion Levingston also delivered an impressive performance, recording 150 receiving yards and two touchdowns.

Homer entered the contest following three consecutive dominant victories, defeating Magnolia School of Excellence 57–0, Green Oaks 40–8 and Plain Dealing 68–0.

The Pelicans have outscored their opponents 205–14 during their four-game winning streak, demonstrating significant improvement on both sides of the football.

Friday’s victory provided Homer with momentum heading into the postseason and capped an impressive turnaround following a challenging start to the season.

Haynesville’s Seven-Game Winning Streak Ends Against Kentwood

The Haynesville Golden Tornado suffered a difficult setback Friday night, falling 28–3 to the Kentwood Kangaroos in a non-district road matchup.

Haynesville entered the contest riding a seven-game winning streak, including an impressive 29–20 victory over previously unbeaten Cedar Creek on October 30.

However, Kentwood’s defense limited the Golden Tornado to just three points, Haynesville’s lowest offensive output of the season.

The loss dropped Haynesville to 7–2, while Kentwood improved to 9–1.

Despite the setback, Haynesville completed an undefeated 4–0 district campaign, securing the District 1-1A championship.

The Golden Tornado’s regular-season victories included wins over Junction City, Homer, Union Parish, Glenbrook, Arcadia, Lincoln Preparatory School and Cedar Creek.

Haynesville will now look to regroup and return to the offensive form that helped produce seven consecutive victories as the team enters postseason competition.

Claiborne Academy Falls to River Oaks in MAIS Quarterfinals

The Claiborne Academy Rebels saw their postseason run come to an end Friday night with a 42–14 loss to River Oaks in Monroe.

The matchup was part of the MidSouth Association of Independent Schools Class 1A Division I quarterfinals.

River Oaks entered the contest as the No. 1 seed, while Claiborne Academy was seeded eighth.

The Rebels had advanced to the quarterfinals following a 64–36 victory over Prentiss Christian on October 30.

Friday’s game also marked the second meeting between Claiborne Academy and River Oaks in three weeks. The Mustangs defeated the Rebels 46–16 during their October 23 regular-season matchup.

Although Claiborne Academy was unable to advance, the Rebels’ opening-round playoff victory provided a postseason highlight and demonstrated their ability to rebound from adversity.

River Oaks advanced to the semifinals, where the Mustangs are scheduled to face Benton Academy on Thursday, November 12.

Claiborne Academy’s season concludes with the program having earned a postseason victory and a quarterfinal appearance.

Playoff Preview: Homer and Haynesville Prepare for First-Round Matchups

The LHSAA released its 2026 football playoff brackets, with both Homer and Haynesville qualifying for the Division IV Non-Select postseason.

DIVISION IV NON-SELECT — FIRST ROUND

No. 26 DeQuincy Tigers at No. 7 Haynesville Golden Tornado

Friday, November 13, 2026 — 7 p.m.

Haynesville — Home game

No. 18 East Beauregard Trojans at No. 15 Homer Pelicans

Playoff week: November 12–14, 2026

Homer — Home game

Exact kickoff date and time for Homer’s game have not been independently confirmed.

Haynesville Looks to Rebound Against DeQuincy

Haynesville enters the postseason as the No. 7 seed and will host No. 26 DeQuincy.

The Golden Tornado will be looking to bounce back from its loss to Kentwood and take advantage of playing before its home crowd.

Haynesville’s district championship and seven regular-season victories demonstrate the team’s potential to make a postseason run.

A strong defensive performance and a return to the offensive production displayed earlier in the season will be important as Haynesville attempts to advance.

Homer Seeks Fifth Consecutive Victory Against East Beauregard

Homer enters the playoffs as the No. 15 seed and will host No. 18 East Beauregard.

The Pelicans have been among the area’s hottest teams over the final month of the regular season, winning four consecutive games while averaging more than 51 points per contest during that stretch.

Homer’s offense, led by quarterback Kevin Williams and receiver Jerzyion Levingston, will look to maintain its production against the Trojans.

The Pelicans’ defense has also been a major factor in their late-season success, allowing only 14 points across their last four games.

With the advantage of playing at home, Homer will attempt to extend its winning streak and secure a place in the regional round.
Claiborne Parish Football Looks Ahead

As the 2026 high school football season enters its postseason phase, Claiborne Parish will have two programs competing for an opportunity to advance toward a state championship.

Haynesville enters the playoffs with a district championship and a top-eight seed, while Homer carries one of the strongest late-season winning streaks in the area.

Although Claiborne Academy’s season has concluded, the Rebels’ quarterfinal appearance adds another postseason accomplishment to the parish’s football season.

The opening round of the LHSAA playoffs begins this week, with regional-round competition scheduled for November 19–21.

For Claiborne Parish football fans, the focus now shifts to Haynesville and Homer as both teams prepare to defend their home fields and continue their pursuit of postseason success.

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Middle school students at Haynesville Junior/Senior High School recently enjoyed a unique educational experience as they learned about Louisiana’s native wildlife, conservation efforts and the importance of protecting the state’s natural resources.

The school welcomed Seth Miller, a biologist with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), for an interactive presentation designed to introduce students to the diverse wildlife found throughout Louisiana.

During the visit, Miller discussed the importance of wildlife conservation, with a special emphasis on Louisiana’s native duck populations. Students learned about the role these birds play in the state’s ecosystems and why protecting natural habitats is essential for maintaining healthy wildlife populations.

One of the highlights of the presentation was an opportunity for students to interact with a baby alligator. The hands-on experience allowed students to touch the young reptile while learning more about one of Louisiana’s most recognizable native species.

The educational experience extended beyond wildlife as students also received longleaf pine tree seedlings to take home and plant.

Each student was given a seedling, providing an opportunity to participate directly in conservation efforts while learning about the importance of trees and preserving Louisiana’s natural environment.

Longleaf pine trees are native to the southeastern United States and play an important role in supporting wildlife habitats and maintaining healthy forest ecosystems.

School officials expressed appreciation to Miller for sharing his expertise and providing students with an engaging opportunity to learn outside the traditional classroom setting.

The visit combined environmental education with hands-on activities, encouraging students to develop a greater understanding of Louisiana’s wildlife and the importance of conservation.

Through experiences such as this, Haynesville Junior/Senior High School continues to provide students with educational opportunities that connect classroom learning to the natural world while encouraging environmental responsibility.

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Southern A’Chord, Ruston’s women’s a cappella chorus, will present “Let Freedom Sing!” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, in the fellowship hall of the Presbyterian Church of Ruston, 212 N. Bonner St.

The free community performance will celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with a variety of musical selections, including patriotic songs, gospel numbers and pop favorites.

“We’ve put together a program that offers something for everyone,” director Candice Bassett said. “We hope the audience will enjoy the variety and the special sound of four-part a cappella harmony.”

The concert will also give audience members an opportunity to sing along on some of the songs.

“We’re excited to welcome the community to this free performance,” chorus president Judy Sisson said. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate our country, enjoy some wonderful music and share an evening of fellowship with friends and neighbors.”

Donations will be accepted, and refreshments will be served following the program.

Southern A’Chord, formed in 2024, is a nonprofit community chorus. The group rehearses at 6 p.m. Thursdays at the Presbyterian Church of Ruston and is always ready to welcome new members.

For more information, visit the Facebook page Southern A’Chord Chorus or the website www.southernachordchorus.org.

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Helen Vivian Page McBride
May 10, 1944 — November 6, 2026
Services: Wednesday, November 11 at 10:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home

Steve Harrison Lee
April 22, 1958 — November 4, 2026
A small family gathering and inurnment at Arlington Cemetery in Homer, LA, will occur sometime during the Christmas season.

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

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The LSU AgCenter Webster and Claiborne Parish Nutrition Education program is encouraging residents to make their voices heard by participating in the Louisiana Community Health Survey, an initiative aimed at identifying healthcare access challenges and community health needs across the state.

The survey, promoted on behalf of the Office of the Louisiana Surgeon General, seeks feedback from Louisiana residents about healthcare services and health-related concerns within their communities.

The initiative provides residents with an opportunity to share their experiences and help state health officials better understand the challenges individuals and families face when seeking medical care and accessing health resources.

Access to healthcare remains an important issue for rural communities, where residents may face challenges involving transportation, availability of medical providers, specialized healthcare services and preventive care.

By gathering feedback directly from community members, the survey aims to provide a clearer picture of healthcare needs throughout Louisiana, including rural areas such as Claiborne and Webster parishes.

The LSU AgCenter’s Nutrition Education program is helping spread awareness of the survey and encouraging local participation to ensure that the concerns and experiences of rural residents are represented.

Community input can provide valuable information for identifying healthcare priorities, understanding gaps in available services and informing future public health planning.

Residents are encouraged to take a few moments to complete the survey and share their perspectives on healthcare access and community health needs.

The Louisiana Community Health Survey is available online at https://bit.ly/LAHealth2026.

Participation offers residents an opportunity to contribute to a broader understanding of the health challenges facing Louisiana communities.

The LSU AgCenter encourages residents throughout Claiborne, Webster and surrounding parishes to participate and help ensure their communities’ healthcare needs are heard.

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. — Residents across Claiborne Parish can expect a pleasant stretch of fall weather this week, with abundant sunshine, mild afternoon temperatures, and chilly overnight lows. Mostly dry conditions are anticipated through Friday, with a slight chance of rain Saturday night as temperatures gradually cool heading into the weekend.

Wednesday will bring sunny skies and a high near 74 degrees. Winds will be calm before becoming northwesterly at around 5 mph. Wednesday night will be mostly clear, with temperatures dropping to approximately 43 degrees.

Thursday will continue the sunny weather pattern, with afternoon temperatures reaching near 78 degrees, making it the warmest day of the forecast period. Thursday night will bring partly cloudy skies, with a low around 46 degrees.

Friday will feature sunny skies and a high near 75 degrees, providing favorable conditions for outdoor activities and the start of the weekend. Friday night will be mostly clear, with temperatures falling to around 41 degrees.

A cooling trend will arrive over the weekend. Saturday will be mostly sunny, with a high near 70 degrees. Saturday night will bring partly cloudy conditions and a 20 percent chance of showers, with overnight temperatures dropping to around 38 degrees, making it the coldest night of the forecast period.

Sunday will round out the forecast period with mostly sunny skies and a high near 68 degrees.

Overall, Claiborne Parish residents can look forward to comfortable daytime conditions throughout much of the week, with plenty of sunshine and limited rain chances. However, cooler mornings and evenings will make jackets and warmer clothing a good idea, particularly over the weekend as overnight temperatures dip into the upper 30s.

Residents planning to attend Friday night high school football games or weekend activities should prepare for chilly evening temperatures.

Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the National Weather Service for any changes in the forecast.

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Seniors at Haynesville Junior/Senior High School recently had the opportunity to explore their futures beyond high school through educational visits to the Southern University Aerospace and Aviation Center and Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC).

The visits provided students with firsthand exposure to educational pathways, career possibilities and opportunities available to them following graduation.

During the experience, seniors were introduced to programs and career fields that could help guide their decisions about continuing their education, pursuing technical training or entering the workforce.

The visit to the Southern University Aerospace and Aviation Center offered students an opportunity to explore the aviation and aerospace industries, while the trip to BPCC introduced them to additional higher education and workforce training possibilities.

School officials emphasized the importance of providing students with experiences that extend beyond the classroom and help them make informed decisions about their futures.

By visiting educational institutions and learning about available programs, students were encouraged to consider their personal interests, career goals and the steps necessary to achieve success after high school.

Haynesville Junior/Senior High School shared its excitement about the opportunity, highlighting the importance of helping students envision the possibilities awaiting them after graduation.

The visits reflect the school’s commitment to preparing students for life beyond high school by connecting classroom learning with real-world educational and career opportunities.

Through initiatives such as these, Haynesville Junior/Senior High School continues to encourage students to set goals, explore new possibilities and take meaningful steps toward their futures.

The school summed up the experience with its message of encouragement: “Opening doors, exploring possibilities, and CLEARING A PATH TO SUCCESS!”

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Students at Claiborne Academy are taking an active role in keeping their school clean and welcoming through a new initiative called “Operation Campus Beautification.”

Members of the school’s Student Council and National Honor Society have joined forces to purchase outdoor trash cans to help reduce litter and encourage students to take pride in their campus.

The project marks the beginning of an effort to improve the appearance of school grounds while promoting responsibility, teamwork and environmental awareness among students.

By investing in additional outdoor trash cans, the student organizations hope to make it easier for students, faculty and visitors to properly dispose of trash and help maintain a cleaner campus.

The initiative also highlights the leadership and community-minded spirit of Claiborne Academy students, who are demonstrating that even small improvements can make a meaningful difference in their school environment.

Through Operation Campus Beautification, Student Council and National Honor Society members are setting an example for their peers by taking responsibility for the spaces they share.

The project reflects the importance of student involvement in school improvement efforts and serves as a reminder that maintaining a beautiful campus is a responsibility everyone can share.

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. — Claiborne Parish high school football teams delivered impressive performances Friday night, October 30, as the Haynesville Golden Tornado and Homer Pelicans secured victories during Week Nine of the 2026 season.

Haynesville continued its winning streak with a 29-20 victory over previously unbeaten Cedar Creek, while Homer dominated Plain Dealing in a 68-0 shutout. Both victories provided momentum as the teams prepare for their final regular-season matchups.
Haynesville Hands Cedar Creek First Loss, 29-20

The Haynesville Golden Tornado delivered one of the area’s most significant victories Friday night, defeating the Cedar Creek Cougars 29-20 in a District 1-1A showdown.

Cedar Creek entered the contest undefeated at 8-0, but Haynesville rose to the challenge on its home field, handing the Cougars their first loss of the season.

The victory extended Haynesville’s winning streak to seven games and improved the Golden Tornado’s record to 7-1.

Haynesville entered the matchup following a commanding 53-0 shutout of Lincoln Preparatory School on October 23. The Golden Tornado carried that momentum into Friday’s contest, producing 29 points against a Cedar Creek team that had not suffered a defeat all season.

The win strengthened Haynesville’s position heading into the final week of the regular season and demonstrated the team’s ability to compete against one of the area’s strongest opponents.

Homer Pelicans Shut Out Plain Dealing, 68-0

The Homer Pelicans continued their late-season surge Friday night with a commanding 68-0 victory over Plain Dealing.

Homer controlled the contest on both sides of the football, producing its highest scoring total of the season while preventing Plain Dealing from reaching the end zone.

The victory followed an impressive 40-8 win over Green Oaks on October 23, a matchup in which Homer handed the previously undefeated Giants their first loss.

The Pelicans have now won three consecutive games, including their 57-0 victory over Magnolia School of Excellence on October 16.

Over those three contests, Homer has outscored its opponents 165-8, highlighting a dramatic improvement in both offensive production and defensive performance.

Claiborne Academy Advances in MAIS Playoffs with 64-36 Victory

The Claiborne Academy Rebels opened postseason competition with an impressive 64-36 victory over Prentiss Christian on Friday, October 30, in the first round of the MAIS Class 1A Division I playoffs.

The Rebels entered the postseason following a difficult stretch that included four consecutive losses to Tensas Academy, Tallulah Academy, Prairie View Academy and River Oaks.

However, Claiborne Academy reversed that momentum against Prentiss Christian, scoring 64 points to secure a place in the quarterfinal round.

The victory gives the Rebels an opportunity to avenge their October 23 loss to River Oaks, which defeated Claiborne Academy 46-16 during the regular season.

Claiborne Academy will travel to Monroe on Friday, November 6, for a 7 p.m. quarterfinal matchup against River Oaks.

All three Claiborne Parish football programs will return to action Friday, November 6.

Haynesville will travel to face Kentwood, seeking its eighth consecutive victory and a strong finish to the regular season.

Homer will travel to North Caddo, looking to extend its three-game winning streak and improve its postseason position.

Claiborne Academy will face River Oaks in the MAIS Class 1A Division I quarterfinals, with a berth in the semifinals on the line.

With the regular season drawing to a close and postseason competition already underway for Claiborne Academy, all three programs have opportunities to build on their Week Nine victories.

The three wins highlighted a successful Friday night for Claiborne Parish football, as Haynesville continued its impressive winning streak, Homer maintained its late-season surge, and Claiborne Academy advanced in the playoffs.

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. — Claiborne Parish 4-H is celebrating outstanding achievements by local youth in agricultural competitions, including two members qualifying for the ArkLaTex Ag Council Livestock Sale and a first-place finish in the Livestock Quiz Bowl at the State Fair of Louisiana.

Quinn Wilson and Luke Padgett have earned spots in the ArkLaTex Ag Council Livestock Sale, scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, at the State Fair Sale Arena.

The accomplishment recognizes the dedication, hard work, and commitment both exhibitors have demonstrated throughout their livestock projects. Raising and preparing livestock for competition requires countless hours of feeding, training, animal care, and hands-on learning.

Claiborne Parish 4-H officials congratulated Wilson and Padgett on reaching this milestone and encouraged the community to support the young exhibitors as they prepare for the upcoming sale.

Friends, family members, local businesses, and community supporters are invited to make financial contributions or donations to help offset expenses associated with raising and exhibiting livestock. Those interested in contributing may contact the exhibitors’ families or follow the donation information provided through Claiborne Parish 4-H. Donors are asked to specify the exhibitor’s name when making a contribution.

Community members are also welcome to attend the November 4 sale and purchase an animal in support of participating youth.

In addition to celebrating its livestock sale qualifiers, Claiborne Parish 4-H earned first place in the Livestock Quiz Bowl at the State Fair of Louisiana, highlighting the parish’s strong agricultural education program.

The competition tested participants’ knowledge of livestock and agricultural practices, with Claiborne Parish securing the top position among competing teams.

The final results were:

First Place: Claiborne Parish 4-H

Second Place: Sabine Parish 4-H

Third Place: Jackson Parish 4-H

The achievements reflect the dedication of Claiborne Parish 4-H members and the continued support of families, volunteers, educators, and community partners who help prepare young people for success in agriculture.

Through livestock projects, educational competitions, and leadership opportunities, 4-H provides youth with valuable experiences that promote responsibility, teamwork, agricultural knowledge, and personal development.

Claiborne Parish 4-H expressed appreciation to the community for its continued investment in local youth and encouraged residents to support Wilson, Padgett, and other young exhibitors participating in the upcoming livestock sale.

The ArkLaTex Ag Council Livestock Sale will take place Wednesday, November 4, at the State Fair Sale Arena, offering an opportunity for community members to recognize and support the next generation of agricultural leaders.

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Larry Darnell “PAPPY” Thomas
Apr 21, 1962 — Nov 2, 2026
Not yet available

SFC Samuel Kasey Gryder
December 8, 1981 — October 25, 2026
Visitation: Tuesday, November 3 from 5-8 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home
Services: Wednesday, November 4 at 1:00 p.m. at Ruple Baptist Church

Mike David Mitchell
April 8, 1964 — November 2, 2026
Visitation: at the funeral home from noon-1 p.m., prior to the service.
Services: Thursday, November 5 at 1:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home

Judy Jeraline Willis
June 10, 1938 — October 9, 2026
Visitation: beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Services: Saturday, November 7, at 11:00 a.m. at the Lisbon United Methodist Church Cemetery

Katy Mixon O’Neal
December 31, 1960 — October 28, 2026
A Memorial Service is pending.

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

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HOMER, La. – The Town of Homer is inviting residents, business owners and community members to attend an informational meeting Wednesday, October 28, to learn about plans to improve traffic safety, accessibility and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure around the historic Homer Square.

The meeting will begin at 3 p.m. in the Town of Homer City Council Chambers and will focus on the community’s participation in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Thriving Communities Program.

Homer is one of only six Louisiana Main Street communities selected for the program, which provides specialized planning and technical assistance to help smaller communities develop transportation improvements and prepare for future infrastructure funding opportunities.

Through the program, participating communities receive expert guidance in identifying transportation challenges, developing improvement strategies and positioning themselves to pursue funding for larger projects.

In Homer, the primary focus will be on traffic safety and design improvements surrounding the downtown square.

The initiative aims to make the area safer and easier to navigate for motorists, pedestrians, shoppers and others who visit downtown businesses and public spaces.

Potential areas of planning include improving traffic flow, enhancing pedestrian accessibility and developing street designs that better accommodate the needs of residents and visitors.

The Town of Homer emphasized that community participation will be an important part of the planning process.

During the informational meeting, attendees will have an opportunity to learn more about the Thriving Communities Program, hear about the proposed planning efforts, ask questions and share ideas for the future of downtown Homer.

Town officials are encouraging residents to attend and provide input on improvements they would like to see around the square.
Meeting Details:

Event: Thriving Communities Program Informational Meeting

Date: Wednesday, October 28, 2026

Time: 3 p.m.

Location: Town of Homer City Council Chambers

Admission: Open to the public

The meeting represents an opportunity for residents to participate in discussions about the future of Homer’s downtown transportation infrastructure and help identify priorities for creating a safer, more accessible community.

All interested residents and community stakeholders are encouraged to attend.

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. – The Homer Fire Department is reminding residents that a parish-wide burn ban prohibits outdoor burning throughout Claiborne Parish, including all incorporated towns, villages and unincorporated areas.

According to the department’s public safety notice, dry conditions have increased the risk of rapidly spreading fires, posing a threat to residents, homes, property and emergency responders.

The burn ban prohibits several types of outdoor burning, including:

Recreational fires in fire pits

Burning in barrels

Burning household trash

Burning leaves, limbs and other yard debris

The department warned that fines will be issued for violations of the burn ban. Individuals who start fires may also be held responsible for property damage resulting from those fires.

Fire officials emphasized that even a small spark can quickly develop into a dangerous situation under dry conditions, potentially placing nearby structures and residents at risk.

The warning applies throughout Claiborne Parish, regardless of whether a residence or property is located within municipal limits or in an unincorporated area.

Residents are urged to refrain from all prohibited outdoor burning and take precautions to prevent accidental fires until restrictions are lifted.

Anyone who discovers a fire or encounters a fire-related emergency should call 911 immediately.

The Homer Fire Department is also encouraging residents to share the warning with neighbors, family members and others throughout the parish to help prevent wildfires and protect the community.

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Volunteer firefighters with the Homer Fire Department and Claiborne Fire District 5 are being recognized for their dedication to professional development after completing extensive training and earning certifications through the Fire and Emergency Training Academy (FETA).

The continuing education initiative has been underway since October 2025, with several volunteer firefighters completing courses designed to strengthen their emergency response capabilities, technical knowledge and firefighting skills.

The Homer Fire Department recently highlighted five volunteers who have completed training in hazardous materials response, firefighting operations and fire investigation.

Firefighters recognized for their accomplishments include:

Tucker Harris: Hazardous Materials Awareness (8 hours), Hazardous Materials Operations (32 hours) and Firefighter I (400 hours).

Kacen Gantt: Hazardous Materials Operations (32 hours) and Firefighter I (400 hours).

Abby Rogers: Hazardous Materials Awareness (8 hours).

Will Strickland: Hazardous Materials Awareness (8 hours), Hazardous Materials Operations (32 hours) and Firefighter I (400 hours).

Justin Marsalis: Fire Investigator (76 hours).

The certifications represent a significant commitment of time and effort by the volunteers, who balance their firefighting responsibilities with the demands of specialized training.

Hazardous Materials Awareness training prepares firefighters to recognize potentially dangerous substances and identify appropriate safety precautions during emergencies. Hazardous Materials Operations training builds on that foundation by preparing responders to take defensive actions during hazardous materials incidents.

The 400-hour Firefighter I training program provides extensive instruction in fundamental firefighting skills, including fire suppression, rescue operations, protective equipment and emergency response procedures.

Fire Investigator training focuses on examining fire scenes and understanding methods used to investigate the origin and cause of fires.

Continuing education is an important component of maintaining effective emergency services, particularly in rural communities where volunteer firefighters play a critical role in protecting residents, businesses and property.

The training accomplishments reflect the commitment of Homer Fire Department and Claiborne Fire District 5 personnel to improving their readiness and providing professional emergency response services throughout their communities.

The Homer Fire Department congratulated the volunteers on their hard work and dedication, recognizing the time they have invested in developing skills that benefit the residents they serve.

The department’s recognition also highlights the importance of ongoing training and cooperation among local fire service organizations in strengthening public safety across Claiborne Parish.

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. – Claiborne Parish residents can expect warm temperatures and mostly sunny skies through Thursday before increasing cloud cover brings a chance of showers and thunderstorms heading into the weekend, according to the National Weather Service forecast.

Afternoon temperatures will generally range from the lower to middle 80s, with overnight lows in the 50s and near 60 degrees.

Rain chances will begin Friday night and continue intermittently through Monday.

Wednesday: Sunny skies are expected with a high near 85 degrees. Winds will be calm before becoming southerly around 5 mph.

Wednesday night will be mostly clear with a low around 52 degrees and calm winds.

Thursday: Another sunny and warm day is expected with a high near 85 degrees. Thursday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 56 degrees.

Friday: Increasing cloud cover will bring partly sunny skies and a high near 80 degrees. A 30 percent chance of showers will develop Friday night, mainly after 1 a.m., with mostly cloudy skies and a low around 58 degrees.

Saturday: Mostly cloudy conditions are expected with a slight chance of showers early, followed by a greater chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. The high will reach near 81 degrees, with a 40 percent chance of precipitation. Saturday night will remain mostly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of showers and a low around 58 degrees.

Sunday: Partly sunny skies are forecast with a high near 84 degrees. Sunday night will be partly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of showers and a low around 60 degrees.

Monday: Mostly sunny skies are expected with a high near 86 degrees. A 20 percent chance of showers will remain in the forecast.

The greatest chance of rainfall during the forecast period will occur Saturday afternoon, when scattered showers and thunderstorms may develop. Residents planning outdoor activities over the weekend should remain aware of changing weather conditions.

Source: National Weather Service

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CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. – With Halloween approaching, Claiborne Parish Sheriff Sam Dowies is encouraging families to take precautions to help keep children safe while trick-or-treating.

The Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office recently shared a series of safety recommendations from the National Neighborhood Watch program aimed at preventing common accidents and potential dangers associated with Halloween activities.

Sheriff Dowies emphasized the importance of pedestrian safety, costume visibility, adult supervision and planning ahead before children begin visiting neighborhoods.

The Sheriff’s Office recommends the following Halloween safety tips:

Walk, don’t run: Remind children to walk on sidewalks whenever possible or near the edge of the roadway when sidewalks are unavailable.

Avoid distractions: Parents and guardians should remain attentive and avoid distractions, including cell phones, while supervising children.

Increase visibility: Make costumes easier for motorists to see by adding reflective tape, glow bracelets, glow sticks, lights or other visible accessories.

Choose safe costumes: Ensure costumes are fire-resistant and fit properly to reduce the risk of trips, falls and other injuries.

Consider face paint instead of masks: Makeup and face paint can provide an alternative to masks that may obstruct a child’s vision.

Inspect Halloween candy: Parents should examine all treats collected by children and discard any items that are not properly sealed.

Stay outside residences: Remind children to remain in front of homes distributing candy and never enter a residence.

Establish a separation plan: Families should discuss what children should do if they become separated from their parents or guardians during Halloween activities.

The Sheriff’s Office encourages parents to review these precautions with their children before heading out for Halloween festivities.

By taking a few simple steps and remaining alert throughout the evening, families can help reduce the risk of accidents and ensure children enjoy a safer trick-or-treating experience.

Halloween will be observed Saturday, October 31.

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Week Eight of the 2026 high school football season brought two decisive victories and one loss for Claiborne Parish teams Friday, October 23.

Haynesville continued its winning streak with a shutout victory over Lincoln Preparatory School, while Homer delivered an impressive performance against previously unbeaten Green Oaks. Claiborne Academy fell to River Oaks in its latest contest.

Haynesville Shuts Out Lincoln Prep, 53-0

The Haynesville Golden Tornado continued its strong season Friday night, defeating Lincoln Preparatory School 53-0.

Haynesville took control early, building a commanding lead during the first half and forcing a running clock before halftime.

The Golden Tornado capitalized on several Lincoln Prep mistakes, including a mishandled snap that resulted in a defensive touchdown. Haynesville also benefited from favorable field position and continued to find success on the ground.

By halftime, Haynesville had established a 46-0 advantage. The Golden Tornado added another touchdown on its opening possession of the third quarter to complete the shutout.

The victory marked Haynesville’s sixth consecutive win following its season-opening loss to Ouachita Christian.

Haynesville will return home Friday, October 30, to face Cedar Creek.

Homer Hands Previously Unbeaten Green Oaks a 40-8 Loss

The Homer Pelicans delivered one of their strongest performances of the season Friday night, defeating Green Oaks 40-8.

Green Oaks entered the matchup undefeated, but Homer controlled the scoreboard and held the G-Men to just eight points.

The victory provided a significant boost for a Homer team that had faced several close losses earlier in the season. Three of the Pelicans’ five previous defeats had been decided by one possession.

Homer’s 32-point margin of victory highlighted the team’s ability to compete against a previously unbeaten opponent as the regular season approaches its conclusion.

Claiborne Parish Week Eight Football Results

Friday’s games produced the following results:

Haynesville Golden Tornado: Defeated Lincoln Prep, 53-0, improving to 6-1.

Homer Pelicans: Defeated Green Oaks, 40-8, improving to 3-5.

Claiborne Academy Rebels: Lost to River Oaks, 46-16, falling to 4-4.

Looking Ahead to Week Nine

Haynesville and Homer will return to their home fields Friday, October 30, as the regular season enters its final two weeks.

Haynesville is scheduled to host Cedar Creek, while Homer will welcome Plain Dealing. Both teams will look to build on their Week Eight performances.

Claiborne Academy completed its published regular-season schedule against River Oaks on October 23. Any additional postseason games will depend on the Rebels’ playoff status.

With Haynesville riding a six-game winning streak and Homer coming off consecutive victories, both public school programs will look to finish the regular season on a strong note.

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is preparing for the state’s third annual Louisiana Black Bear Hunt, scheduled for December 5-20, with mandatory training sessions for hunters selected through the state’s hunting tag lottery.

A total of 22 successful lottery applicants attended a training session Thursday evening at the LDWF office in Lafayette, where wildlife officials reviewed hunting regulations, safety procedures and techniques for harvesting Louisiana black bears.

LDWF Large Carnivore Program Manager John Hanks and Large Carnivore Biologist Johnny Berry led the training, providing participants with information about the regulations governing this year’s hunt.

The session also covered hunting strategies, preparations necessary to safely harvest a bear, and proper techniques for skinning and cleaning harvested animals.

In addition to the instructional portion of the program, participants had an opportunity to sample bear meat prepared as sliders and tacos.

According to LDWF, a total of 42 hunting tags were issued for the 2026 season, providing hunting opportunities across all seven of Louisiana’s designated bear areas.

The mandatory training is part of the state’s preparation process for hunters selected to participate in the regulated black bear hunt.

Officials emphasized that the sessions are reserved exclusively for successful lottery applicants and are not open to the general public.

The upcoming hunt marks the third consecutive year Louisiana has conducted a regulated black bear hunting season.

Hunters and residents interested in learning more about the program, including lottery procedures and hunting requirements, can visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website for additional information.

For more information: Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

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Wanda Virginia Huddleston Gilliand
March 21, 1938 — October 24, 2026
Visitation: at 10 A.M., prior to the service.
Services: October 28, 2026 at 11 A.M. at Wesley Chapel Church of Homer

Christopher Wade Maness
December 28, 1960 — September 21, 2026
Services: October 31 at 12:30 p.m. on the hillside by the Craighead Cemetery

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

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