Claiborne Parish third grader recognized for perfect score on 2026 english LEAP assessment

The Claiborne Parish School Board recently recognized third-grade student Isabella Johnson for earning a perfect score on the English Language Arts portion of the 2026 Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP).

Superintendent Brooks and members of the Claiborne Parish School Board honored Johnson for her outstanding academic achievement during a recent recognition.

Johnson was presented with a certificate of achievement by her principal, Mrs. Hannah Sanders, in recognition of her exceptional performance on the statewide assessment.

The LEAP assessment measures student proficiency in core academic subjects, including English Language Arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The results help schools evaluate student progress and academic achievement based on Louisiana’s educational standards.

Earning a perfect score on the English portion of the assessment represents a significant academic accomplishment and highlights Johnson’s achievement in reading and language arts.

The recognition also reflects the district’s commitment to celebrating student success and encouraging academic excellence throughout Claiborne Parish Schools.


Traffic alert: Road resealing scheduled for Lyons Hill road in Claiborne Parish

The Claiborne Parish Police Jury has announced that road resealing work is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2026, along a portion of Lyons Hill Road near Homer.

According to the Police Jury, the Claiborne Parish Highway Department will conduct resealing operations from the Town of Homer city limits to the intersection of Lyons Hill Road and Hill Farm Road.

Motorists traveling through the area are urged to use caution while crews perform the roadway maintenance.

Drivers should remain alert for highway department personnel and equipment and be prepared for possible traffic delays during the work.

The Police Jury did not announce specific work hours or a road closure.

Residents and motorists are encouraged to exercise caution when traveling along the affected section of Lyons Hill Road on Wednesday.


Claiborne Parish Schools announces tutoring services through Steve Carter program

Claiborne Parish Schools has announced a partnership with the Steve Carter Tutoring Program to provide additional academic support for eligible students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

The tutoring initiative, offered through the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), is designed to help students who are performing below proficiency levels in English Language Arts (ELA), mathematics or both subjects.

According to the Claiborne Parish School Board, students in grades K-12 who are below proficiency in either subject may qualify for tutoring services aimed at strengthening academic skills and improving classroom performance.

Parents and guardians interested in the program are encouraged to complete an application using the application link or QR code provided on the district’s informational flyer.

Families will need their child’s 10-digit student identification number to complete the application. Parents who do not have the number should contact their child’s school to obtain the necessary information.

The partnership is intended to provide additional learning opportunities for students who need academic assistance in reading, language arts and mathematics.

Families seeking more information about eligibility or the application process are encouraged to contact their child’s school or visit the Louisiana Department of Education’s tutoring initiative website at www.louisianatutoringinitiative.com.

The Claiborne Parish School Board encourages eligible families to take advantage of the tutoring services to help students build academic skills and work toward grade-level proficiency.


Sunny skies and warm fall temperatures expected across Claiborne Parish through Sunday


Claiborne Parish residents can expect an extended stretch of sunny skies, warm afternoon temperatures and cool overnight conditions through Sunday, according to the forecast provided from the National Weather Service.

High temperatures are expected to remain in the lower to middle 80s throughout the forecast period, while overnight lows will fall into the lower 50s. No rainfall is included in the forecast through Sunday, providing several days of favorable weather conditions across the parish.

Wednesday will bring sunny skies with a high near 83 degrees. Winds will be calm before becoming northeast around 5 mph. Clear skies are expected Wednesday night, with temperatures dropping to around 51 degrees.

Thursday will continue the stretch of pleasant fall weather, with sunshine and a high near 84 degrees, making it the warmest day of the forecast period. Clear skies will continue Thursday night as temperatures fall to around 50 degrees.

Friday will feature sunny conditions and an afternoon high near 83 degrees. Mostly clear skies are expected Friday night, with an overnight low around 50 degrees.

Saturday will offer another day of sunshine, with temperatures reaching approximately 83 degrees. Saturday night will bring partly cloudy skies, with temperatures dropping to around 52 degrees.

Sunday will remain pleasant, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 81 degrees, continuing the stretch of dry and mild fall weather across the parish.

The extended forecast indicates favorable conditions for outdoor activities, sporting events and weekend gatherings throughout Claiborne Parish. Residents can expect warm afternoons followed by cooler evenings and mornings as the area experiences several days of stable fall weather.


New downtown Homer mural brings color and community pride to historic Main Street

HOMER, La. – A new mural has transformed a long-vacant building near the downtown Homer post office into a colorful landmark, offering residents and visitors a new photo opportunity while celebrating the community’s historic downtown district.

According to Main Street Homer, the project was approximately two years in the making and resulted from a collaboration among local educators, artists, community organizations and businesses.

The effort began when Homer High School art teacher Rhonda Porter, Main Street Homer’s Jimmy Hand and Homer Cultural District Director Christina Black Gladney joined forces to bring the mural to life.

Porter created the mural’s design and served as lead artist, while Gladney secured a Louisiana state grant to help fund the project.

Although the grant covered the period from October 2025 through September 2026, funding was not received until February 2026.

Additional delays occurred as organizers waited for favorable weather conditions and necessary building preparations.

Cody Knighton of Home Restorations LLC completed the preparation work before artists began painting in June.

The completed mural features two distinctive messages celebrating the community. One wall welcomes visitors to “Historic Downtown Homer,” while another displays the phrase “Meet Me at the Corner of Main Street.”

The mural’s vibrant colors were selected to revitalize a prominent downtown corner that had remained neglected for years.

Organizers said the project was designed not only to improve the appearance of the building but also to create a recognizable destination where residents and visitors can take photographs and celebrate Homer’s historic downtown.

The mural was completed in time for visitors attending Louisiana Legends Fest to enjoy the new attraction. A public presentation is also planned to recognize Porter’s contributions as lead artist.

The project brought together the Homer Cultural District, Main Street Homer, local schools, building donor Rusty Billings and Home Restorations LLC.

According to Main Street Homer, the mural has already generated an enthusiastic response on social media, with residents sharing photographs and expressing appreciation for the downtown transformation.

The Homer Cultural District, which operates under a state designation rather than as a division of city government, has supported a variety of cultural initiatives, including art exhibitions, musical performances and an artist center. The district also submits an annual report documenting changes and activities within its boundaries.

With limited staffing, the district continues to welcome community ideas and volunteers interested in supporting future projects involving visual arts, music and poetry.

Main Street Homer encourages residents and visitors to stop by the new mural, take photographs and enjoy the latest addition to downtown Homer’s growing collection of community attractions.


Claiborne Parish Football: Haynesville and Homer earn dominant wins, Claiborne Academy falls

CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. – Claiborne Parish high school football teams experienced mixed results Friday night, October 16, as Haynesville and Homer recorded convincing victories while Claiborne Academy suffered a loss during Week Seven of the 2026 football season.

The Haynesville Golden Tornado continued its winning streak with a commanding 50-6 victory over Arcadia, while the Homer Pelicans shut out Magnolia School of Excellence 57-0. Claiborne Academy fell to Prairie View Academy, 64-20.

Haynesville Defeats Arcadia, 50-6

The Haynesville Golden Tornado continued its strong run through the season Friday night, defeating the Arcadia Hornets 50-6 in a district matchup.

Haynesville entered the contest riding a four-game winning streak, including a 54-36 victory over Glenbrook on October 8. The Golden Tornado carried that momentum into Friday’s matchup, holding Arcadia to just six points while producing 50 points offensively.

The victory extended Haynesville’s winning streak to five games and kept the Golden Tornado moving forward in district competition.

Haynesville is scheduled to travel to face Lincoln Preparatory School on Friday, October 23.

Homer Shuts Out Magnolia School of Excellence, 57-0

The Homer Pelicans returned to the win column in impressive fashion Friday night, defeating Magnolia School of Excellence 57-0.

The victory provided a strong response following consecutive losses to Ouachita Christian and Calvary Baptist Academy.

Homer controlled the scoreboard throughout the matchup, recording its second shutout victory of the season after previously defeating D’Arbonne 52-0 on September 25.

The Pelicans will look to build on Friday’s performance when they host Green Oaks on October 23.

Claiborne Academy Falls to Prairie View, 64-20

The Claiborne Academy Rebels faced a difficult challenge Friday night, falling 64-20 to the Prairie View Academy Spartans in a home conference matchup.

Prairie View produced its highest point total of the season, scoring 64 points against the Rebels.

Claiborne Academy managed 20 points offensively but could not keep pace with the Spartans. The loss marked the Rebels’ third consecutive defeat following setbacks against Tensas Academy and Tallulah Academy.

The Rebels will look to rebound Friday, October 23, when they travel to Monroe to face River Oaks at 7 p.m.

Claiborne Parish Week Seven Football Results

Team Opponent Final Score

Haynesville Arcadia W 50-6

Homer Magnolia School of Excellence W 57-0

Claiborne Academy Prairie View Academy L 20-64

Looking Ahead to Week Eight

All three Claiborne Parish teams are scheduled to return to action Friday, October 23.

Haynesville will attempt to extend its winning streak to six games against Lincoln Preparatory School, while Homer will seek another victory when it hosts Green Oaks. Claiborne Academy will look to end its three-game losing streak on the road against River Oaks.

With the regular season moving toward its final weeks, each matchup presents another opportunity for the parish’s football programs to build momentum heading into the closing stretch of the 2026 season.


Claiborne Rehabilitation seeks baked goods donations for October 21 trunk or treat cake walk

Claiborne Rehabilitation is inviting community members to help make its upcoming Trunk or Treat celebration a success by donating baked goods for a special cake walk scheduled for Wednesday, October 21.

The facility is seeking donations of cakes, cupcakes, cookies and other homemade or store-bought baked treats to be used during the event.

The cake walk will be part of Claiborne Rehabilitation’s Trunk or Treat festivities, providing an opportunity for residents and community members to enjoy seasonal activities and Halloween fun.

Organizers are encouraging local bakers, families and businesses to participate by contributing baked goods to help make the evening memorable for residents.

Those interested in donating are asked to contact Claiborne Rehabilitation directly to coordinate their contributions and make arrangements for delivery.

The facility expressed appreciation for the community’s continued generosity and support of its residents.

The Trunk or Treat and cake walk are scheduled for October 21. Additional event details and donation arrangements can be obtained by contacting Claiborne Rehabilitation.


Wesley Johnston crowned Miss Louisiana Legends Fest 2026

Wesley Johnston was crowned Miss Louisiana Legends Fest 2026 during the annual pageant held Saturday, October 10, at Claiborne Academy Gymnasium.

The event featured contestants competing across multiple age divisions, showcasing their personalities, talents and stage presence.

Winners were crowned in 10 categories, including the Angel Miss division.

The 2026 Louisiana Legends Fest Pageant winners were:

Angel Miss: Claire Calhoun

Baby Miss: Jayclee Wells

Toddler Miss: Everleigh Comeaux

Tiny Miss: Knola Heenry

Mini Miss: Elizabeth Smith

Petite Miss: Ava Harrison

Preteen Miss: Brynleigh Self

Junior Miss: Lindy Spurlock

Teen Miss: Maggie Allen

Miss Louisiana Legends Fest: Wesley Johnston

Louisiana Legends Fest organizers congratulated Johnston and the winners from each division, recognizing their accomplishments and participation in the annual event.

Organizers also expressed appreciation to all contestants, families and supporters who helped make the pageant a success.

Photographs from the event were captured by Drew Brasher of Photography by Drew Brasher, with additional photos expected to be released by festival organizers.


Hot, sunny conditions continue in Claiborne Parish before weekend cool-down


CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. — Claiborne Parish will remain hot and sunny through the middle of the week before a sharp drop in temperatures brings much cooler conditions for the weekend.

Wednesday will be sunny with a high near 93 degrees. Winds will be calm before becoming southerly around 5 mph during the morning. Wednesday night will be mostly clear with a low around 65.

Thursday will remain sunny and hot with a high near 93. Clear skies are expected Thursday night with a low around 64.

Cooler air will begin arriving Friday, when skies will be mostly sunny with a high near 84. Friday night will be partly cloudy as temperatures fall to around 51.

Saturday will be noticeably cooler with sunny skies and a high near 74. Saturday night will be mostly clear and chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 47.

Temperatures will begin to rebound Sunday, with sunny skies and a high near 80.


Claiborne Parish Schools seeking parent representatives for special education advisory council

The Claiborne Parish School Board (CPSB) is encouraging parents of students with disabilities to apply for positions on the district’s Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) for the 2026–2027 school year. The application deadline is Friday, October 16, 2026.

The council brings together parents, educators and community stakeholders to provide feedback and recommendations regarding special education policies, programs, procedures and resources throughout the district.

Council members will serve in an advisory capacity to the supervisor of special education, district superintendent and school board. Members will be appointed for the current school year, with three meetings scheduled throughout the year.

The eight-member council will include at least four parents of students with disabilities who are not employed by the district.

Other members will include one high school student with disabilities, one school administrator who serves students with disabilities, one special education staff member and one service provider who works with students with disabilities.

The parent application is specifically intended for parents of CPSB students with disabilities who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Under Louisiana Revised Statute 17:1944.1, district employees are not eligible to serve as official parent representatives on the council. However, Claiborne Parish Schools emphasized that all district employees are encouraged to attend and participate in SEAC meetings, recognizing the importance of staff input in supporting special education services.

Through the council, parents will have an opportunity to share their experiences, provide feedback and help guide discussions concerning educational services and resources available to students with disabilities.

Parents interested in serving on the council can complete the online application at https://forms.gle/qL2BjLnUCZeZu6hn6.

Applications must be submitted by October 16.

For additional information or questions regarding the Special Education Advisory Council, contact Christy Boyte at 318-927-2496.


Homer fire department encourages residents to apply for free smoke alarms as state introduces new fire safety mascot


The Homer Fire Department is encouraging residents who need smoke alarms in their homes to contact their local fire department or apply through the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal’s free smoke alarm program.

The department shared the reminder on October 9, emphasizing the importance of having working smoke alarms to help protect families and property from fire-related emergencies.

The announcement follows the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal’s October 8 introduction of Pelly-Can, a new fire and life safety mascot designed to promote fire prevention and public safety education throughout the state.

Pelly-Can, a pelican inspired by Louisiana’s official state bird, will serve as a recognizable symbol for the State Fire Marshal’s Community Risk Reduction programs. The mascot’s catchphrase, “Making Fire Safety Soar in Louisiana,” reflects the agency’s efforts to increase public awareness of fire safety.

While the mascot is designed to engage children and families, the initiative will address a wide range of safety topics, including smoke alarms, home fire escape planning, cooking safety, carbon monoxide awareness, generator safety, disaster preparedness and older adult safety.

“Pelly-Can gives us a fun and recognizable way to connect with Louisiana communities while delivering serious safety messages,” said State Fire Marshal Chief Chad P. Sonnier. “We want Pelly-Can to become a familiar symbol of fire and life safety across our state.”

The State Fire Marshal’s Office also plans to provide local fire departments with educational materials featuring Pelly-Can, including activity sheets, coloring pages, handouts and social media graphics.

DPS Principal Assistant Chief Bryan J. Adams said the mascot will help local fire departments communicate important safety information to their communities.

“Our local fire departments know their communities best, and Pelly-Can gives them another tool to help reach those communities with consistent, meaningful safety messages,” Adams said.

As part of the statewide fire prevention effort, residents are reminded that working smoke alarms provide an important early warning during a fire, allowing occupants additional time to escape.

The Homer Fire Department encourages homeowners who do not have working smoke alarms to take advantage of the state’s free smoke alarm installation program.

Residents interested in requesting smoke alarms can contact their local fire department or visit the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal’s website at www.lasfm.org to access the smoke alarm application.

For additional information about fire prevention and safety resources, residents may also contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at osfm.publicaffairs@la.gov.


Claiborne Parish football: Haynesville wins fourth straight as Homer and Claiborne Academy fall

Claiborne Parish high school football teams experienced mixed results during Week Six of the 2026 season, with Haynesville continuing its winning streak while Homer and Claiborne Academy suffered losses.

The Haynesville Golden Tornado secured a high-scoring district victory over Glenbrook on Thursday, Oct. 8, while the Homer Pelicans and Claiborne Academy Rebels fell in their Friday, Oct. 9, matchups.

Haynesville defeats Glenbrook, 54-36

The Haynesville Golden Tornado extended its winning streak to four games with a 54-36 victory over the Glenbrook Apaches in Thursday night’s District 1-1A opener.

Haynesville’s offense produced its highest point total of the season, although Glenbrook kept the contest competitive throughout the second half.

The Apaches narrowed the deficit to 34-22 during the fourth quarter before Haynesville responded with another touchdown to extend its advantage.

The victory improved Haynesville’s record to 4-1.

The Golden Tornado will return home Friday, Oct. 16, to face Arcadia in another district matchup.

Homer falls to Calvary Baptist, 64-14

The Homer Pelicans faced a difficult challenge Friday night against Calvary Baptist Academy, falling 64-14.

Calvary’s offense controlled the matchup, putting 64 points on the scoreboard while limiting Homer to two touchdowns.

The loss followed a narrow 48-46 defeat against Ouachita Christian the previous week.

Homer is scheduled to return to action Friday, Oct. 23, against Green Oaks.

Claiborne Academy shut out by Tallulah Academy, 30-0

The Claiborne Academy Rebels were unable to generate enough offense Friday night, falling 30-0 to Tallulah Academy.

The defeat marked Claiborne Academy’s second consecutive loss following a 64-60 setback against Tensas Academy on Oct. 2.

The Rebels will look to rebound Friday, Oct. 16, when they host Prairie View Academy.

Claiborne Parish Week Six Results

Haynesville 54, Glenbrook 36 — Thursday, Oct. 8

Calvary Baptist 64, Homer 14 — Friday, Oct. 9

Tallulah Academy 30, Claiborne Academy 0 — Friday, Oct. 9

Haynesville will look to maintain its winning streak as district competition continues, while Homer and Claiborne Academy will work to rebound from their Week Six losses.


Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office announces youth hunt contest winners

The Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office has announced the winners of its 7th Annual Youth Hunt Contest, recognizing three young hunters for their successful outings.

Anna Robinson earned the Biggest Buck award with a 9-point buck measuring 19½ inches wide and 12 inches tall. The buck weighed 198 pounds.

Greyson Easterling took home the Heaviest Doe award with a doe weighing 127 pounds.

Will Abshire was named the Biggest Hog winner after bringing in a hog weighing 135 pounds.

The annual contest provides young hunters in Claiborne Parish an opportunity to participate in the outdoors while spending time with their families and community.

Following the event, the Sheriff’s Office thanked the parents and grandparents who helped get the young hunters into the woods.

Officials also expressed appreciation to local businesses that supported the event by donating door prizes and providing food.

The 7th Annual Youth Hunt Contest was held Saturday, Oct. 10, with competitions for the biggest buck, heaviest doe and biggest hog.


Claiborne Parish 4-H pet show highlights creativity and community participation

Claiborne Parish 4-H recently hosted its annual Pet Show, bringing together local 4-H members and their pets for a day filled with creativity, costumes and fun.

Participants showcased their pets’ personalities through a variety of imaginative costumes. Among the standout entries were a chinchilla dressed as a magician, a hairless cat sporting a biker outfit and a calico cat wearing wings.

Dogs also joined in the festivities, including a dachshund dressed as a hot dog and a Pomeranian wearing a bumblebee costume.

The event provided 4-H members with an opportunity to demonstrate their creativity while celebrating their love for animals.

Claiborne Parish 4-H expressed appreciation to everyone who participated and helped make the event a success. Organizers also thanked Mrs. Nina for assisting with judging the competition.

The Pet Show highlighted the enthusiasm and dedication of local 4-H members while providing a fun opportunity for participants to share their pets with the community.


Thomas G. Bourn memorial show & shine set for Louisiana Legends Fest

Classic cars, custom builds, muscle cars and trucks will be among the attractions at the Thomas G. Bourn Memorial Show & Shine during the Louisiana Legends Fest on Saturday, Oct. 17.

The memorial car show will serve as one of the featured events of this year’s festival, showcasing vehicles and the craftsmanship that goes into restoring, customizing and maintaining them.

Organizers are inviting owners of classic, custom and muscle cars, as well as trucks and other show-worthy vehicles, to participate.

Vehicle owners interested in taking part are encouraged to register online in advance to reserve a spot in the show.

The Thomas G. Bourn Memorial Show & Shine will be held as part of the Louisiana Legends Fest on Saturday, Oct. 17.


REMINDER: Junction City meeting on rural trash pickup sales tax set for Monday

JUNCTION CITY, La. — The Claiborne Parish Police Jury is reminding residents that a community meeting will be held Monday, Oct. 12, to discuss upcoming sales tax propositions and the future of rural residential trash pickup in the parish.

The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at the Junction City Community Center, 104 West Third Street in Junction City. Claiborne Parish

The Police Jury is inviting residents to learn more about how the sales taxes work, ask questions and discuss what could happen to residential trash service if the measures are not approved.

The meeting comes ahead of a Nov. 3 special election involving sales tax propositions. One proposition would authorize a 1.375% sales and use tax for 10 years beginning Jan. 1, 2027, within a district consisting of Claiborne Parish except areas inside the municipal boundaries of Homer and Haynesville. Revenue would be dedicated to solid waste collection and disposal and materials for maintaining public roads within the district. Claiborne Parish

The Police Jury has been holding informational discussions as the election approaches and is encouraging residents to attend the Junction City meeting to learn about the proposals and have their questions addressed.


Fall Annuals: Brightening the Season

By John Monzingo, Assistant County Agent

As fall approaches, many of us shift our focus from gardening and flower beds to football games and hayrides. The cooler months often bring thoughts of leaves changing color, crisp evenings, and plants going dormant. But what many people overlook is that fall and winter can be a vibrant time for planting. Numerous plants thrive in cooler temperatures and can bring color and life to
your landscape well into the colder seasons.

Here in Louisiana, we’re fortunate to enjoy a long growing season. This gives us the opportunity to extend our gardening efforts beyond summer and into fall. A variety of beautiful fall annuals can be planted in late summer and early fall, offering a splash of color when most plants begin to fade. These annuals can be started with seed or purchased as young plants from your local
garden center. Many varieties grow well in pots, hanging baskets, or existing flower beds.

The following are LSU AgCenter Super Plant recommended fall annuals:

Supertunia Vista Bubblegum – One of my personal favorites, this plant features brilliant pink flowers that bloom from early spring until the first heavy frost.

Amazon Dianthus – Transplant in September for vibrant blooms that last through fall and into early winter.

Sorbet Violas – Available in a wide array of colors, these cheerful flowers bloom in fall and often persist through spring.

If you’re looking for something more permanent, consider these Super Plant recommended perennials:

Leslie Ann Camellia and Shishi Gashira Camellia – Both shrubs offer stunning fall color and bloom from October through January.

Fall is a great time to refresh your garden and enjoy the beauty that cooler weather can bring. For more information about cool-season plants, contact John Monzingo at (318) 927-3110 or (318)371-1371.


Sunny, warm week ahead for Claiborne Parish; rain chances return this weekend


CLAIBORNE PARISH, La. — Claiborne Parish will see several days of sunny skies and warm afternoon temperatures before rain chances return over the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be sunny with a high near 91 degrees. Winds will begin calm before becoming easterly around 5 mph. Wednesday night will be mostly clear with a low around 60.

Thursday will bring another sunny day with a high near 91. Temperatures will fall to around 59 Thursday night under mostly clear skies.

Friday will remain sunny with a high near 91, followed by mostly clear conditions Friday night and a low around 59.

A slight chance of rain will return Saturday afternoon. The National Weather Service forecasts a 20% chance of showers after 1 p.m., although skies will otherwise remain sunny with a high near 90. Saturday night will be partly cloudy with a 20% chance of showers and a low around 62.

Rain chances will increase to 30% Sunday. Conditions will remain mostly sunny with a high near 89. Sunday night will be partly cloudy with a 20% chance of showers and a low around 63.

For Columbus Day on Monday, there will be a 20% chance of showers. Otherwise, mostly sunny skies are expected with a high near 91 degrees.


Haynesville Police remind families of Oct. 16 angel tree application deadline

The Haynesville Police Department is reminding Claiborne Parish families that time is running out to apply for this year’s Salvation Army Angel Tree program.

The program is available to Claiborne Parish families with children from birth through 10 years old. Pregnant mothers may also apply if their due date is on or before Feb. 14, 2027.

Applications may be picked up at the Haynesville Police Department Monday through Friday after 10:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Applicants should ask for Morgana.

Completed applications must be returned to the Police Department no later than Oct. 16 to meet the program deadline. Families whose applications are submitted and accepted will receive information needed to pick up their gifts.

Parents or legal guardians must complete the application for participating children. Families are also reminded that children cannot be registered on more than one Christmas assistance list.

The program has limited availability and can accept applications for up to 100 families.

Anyone with questions about the application process may call or text Morgana at 318-433-0217.


Claiborne Academy 4-H students earn honors at Parish livestock show

Claiborne Academy 4-H livestock students brought home a collection of awards following their participation in the recent Claiborne Parish Livestock Show.

Students Jace Holt, Scott Cryer, Addison Garrett, Aubry Shively and Allen Faulk competed alongside peewee participant Kinley Holt. In addition to showing their animals, the students spent time throughout the week helping with school day at the fair, caring for animals and assisting with preparations for various events.

Kindergarten student Kinley Holt participated in the peewee show.

Fourth-grader Jace Holt earned first place in two swine market classes with his Duroc, Hammy, and Yorkshire, Wilbur. Wilbur was also named reserve champion, and Holt placed fourth in showmanship.

Sixth-grader Scott Cryer earned first place in his swine market class with Winnie and placed third in showmanship.

Sixth-grader Addison Garrett earned first place in her cattle class and was named champion in showmanship. She also earned reserve champion honors with her chicken.

Seventh-grader Aubry Shively collected multiple awards, including first place for Oreo white chocolate chip cookies and second place in beef showmanship. She earned first-place finishes in the yearling non-Brahman breeding heifer and spring non-Brahman heifer classes. Shively also received Grand Champion and Reserve Champion Non-Brahman Breeding Heifer honors, Grand

Champion Commercial Heifer, and Supreme and Reserve Supreme Heifer honors.

Tenth-grader Allen Faulk earned reserve champion honors in beef showmanship.

The program gives students hands-on opportunities to develop responsibility and leadership through caring for, preparing and showing livestock.

Several of the Claiborne Academy students will now turn their attention to preparing for the state fair at the end of October.