The Claiborne Parish Assessor’s Office is helping residents better understand how local property taxes are calculated by sharing the 2026 millage rates for taxing districts throughout the parish.

A millage is the tax rate applied to property and represents the amount of tax levied for every $1,000 of taxable assessed property value. The term is derived from the Latin word meaning “thousandth.”

The published 2026 millage rates support a variety of local services, including education, public safety, roads and bridges, libraries, fire protection, and municipal governments.

Education

The following millages support Claiborne Parish schools:

School District Consolidation #1 – 10.13 mills

School District Maintenance – 9.00 mills

School Regular – 5.39 mills

School Public Works – 5.22 mills

School Public Works – 5.22 mills

Police Jury

Millages supporting parish operations include:

Parish Tax Out – 3.85 mills

Parish Tax In – 1.92 mills

Courthouse, Jail and Buildings – 2.77 mills

Roads, Streets and Bridges (Public Works) – 7.32 mills

Roads, Streets and Bridges Equipment – 2.09 mills

Public Services

Millages dedicated to community services include:

Claiborne Parish Library – 6.18 mills

Law Enforcement – 11.18 millsAssessment District – 4.40 mills

Recreation District Wards 2 & 3 – 4.96 mills

Fire Districts

Fire protection millages vary by district:

Fire District #3 – 9.97 mills

Fire District #4 – 10.09 mills

Fire District #5 – 20.00 mills

Fire District #6 – 15.00 mills

Evergreen Fire District – 9.51 mills

Municipal Millages

Residents living within municipal limits also pay city-specific millages:

Athens – 8.54 mills

Haynesville – 14.29 mills

Homer – 9.49 mills

Junction City – 4.62 mills

The Claiborne Parish Assessor’s Office encourages property owners to familiarize themselves with the various millages that fund essential public services throughout the parish. While the Assessor’s Office determines the assessed value of property, millage rates are established by the respective taxing authorities and approved in accordance with Louisiana law.

Understanding how millage rates are applied can help residents better understand their annual property tax bills and how those tax dollars support schools, infrastructure, public safety, and other local government services.

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The 2026–2027 Haynesville High School cheerleading squad returned home with multiple awards after an outstanding performance at a cheer camp held over the weekend at Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, Texas.

Competing against cheer squads from across Texas, the Haynesville cheerleaders showcased their talent, teamwork, and school spirit while earning top finishes in several competition categories.

The squad’s accomplishments included:

First Place – Camp Dance

First Place – Camp Cheer

Second Place – Game Day
School officials congratulated the team on its successful weekend, recognizing the athletes for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence.

The strong showing at camp provides momentum as the Haynesville High School cheerleaders prepare to support the Golden Tornado throughout the 2026–2027 school year, representing the school at athletic events and competitions while building on their early success.

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Summer heat will remain firmly in place across Claiborne Parish through early next week, with daytime highs climbing into the upper 90s and only a slight chance of weekend rain, according to the National Weather Service.

The warmest days of the forecast are expected to be Wednesday and Monday, when temperatures will reach 98 degrees. Aside from a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms on Saturday, residents can expect mostly sunny skies and hot conditions throughout the forecast period.

Extended Forecast

Wednesday: Sunny and hot with a high near 98°. Calm winds becoming northeast around 5 mph during the morning. Clear

Wednesday night with a low around 74°.

Thursday: Sunny with a high near 94°. Mostly clear Thursday night with a low around 73°.

Friday: Sunny and hot with a high near 95°. Mostly clear Friday night with a low around 75°.

Saturday: A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Otherwise, mostly sunny and hot with a high near 95°. Partly cloudy

Saturday night with a low around 76°.

Sunday: Sunny and hot with a high near 97°. Mostly clear Sunday night with a low around 77°.

Monday: Sunny and hot with a high near 98°.

With several days of hot weather ahead, the National Weather Service encourages residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses by staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and taking frequent breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas.

Residents are also reminded to check on elderly neighbors, young children, and others who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat, and to never leave children or pets unattended inside a parked vehicle, where temperatures can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.

While a few showers or thunderstorms are possible on Saturday, no widespread rainfall is expected, and hot summer conditions are forecast to continue through early next week.

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Car enthusiasts from across the region are invited to cruise into downtown Homer this fall for the Thomas G. Bourn Memorial Show & Shine, one of the featured attractions of the Louisiana Legends Fest.

The annual car show will be held Saturday, Oct. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Historic Downtown Homer, showcasing an impressive lineup of classic cars, custom builds, muscle cars, trucks, and other standout vehicles.

Organizers are currently accepting registrations and encouraging vehicle owners to reserve their spots early.

Whether you own a meticulously restored classic, a custom show vehicle, a powerful muscle car, or a unique truck, organizers say the event offers the perfect opportunity to display your pride and joy while connecting with fellow automotive enthusiasts.

The Show & Shine is one of several attractions planned during the Louisiana Legends Fest, which also features live music, food vendors, shopping, and family-friendly entertainment, making it a full day of activities for visitors of all ages.

Participants interested in entering a vehicle can register online by visiting:
https://www.legendsfest.us/show-shine

The Thomas G. Bourn Memorial Show & Shine has become a popular tradition during Louisiana Legends Fest, celebrating automotive craftsmanship while bringing together collectors, hobbyists, and spectators from across the Ark-La-Tex.

Event organizers encourage the public to mark their calendars and plan a scenic fall trip to Homer for one of north Louisiana’s premier automotive showcases.

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By John Monzingo, Assistant County Agent

The dog days of summer are upon us. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the dog days of summer occur from July 3 through August 11. These weeks are often characterized by long hours of daylight, high temperatures, and elevated humidity levels. While many spring vegetable gardens begin slowing down or stop producing altogether during this period, Louisiana gardeners still have opportunities to grow a productive late-summer garden.

Many vegetables thrive when planted during the hottest part of the year and can provide fresh produce well into the fall. By selecting heat-tolerant crops and following recommended planting dates, gardeners can extend their harvest season and make the most of Louisiana’s long growing season.

Vegetables for Late-Summer Planting

Growing vegetables during the dog days of summer does present some challenges. In addition to high temperatures and humidity, Louisiana often experiences periods of drought during late summer. Newly planted seeds and transplants require consistent moisture to become established and produce high-quality yields. Gardeners should develop a regular watering schedule and monitor soil moisture closely, especially during extended periods of hot, dry weather. Applying mulch around plants can also help conserve moisture, reduce weed pressure, and moderate soil temperatures.

Although summer heat can be demanding, it does not have to signal the end of the gardening season. With proper crop selection, timely planting, and adequate irrigation, gardeners can continue harvesting fresh vegetables well into the fall months.

For additional information on vegetables and recommended varieties for your area, contact John Monzingo, LSU AgCenter Assistant Extension Agent, at 318-927-3110 or 318-371-1371.

It is the policy of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service that no person shall be subject to discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, or disability.

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Claiborne Academy 4-H students showcased the results of months of hard work and dedication during the Claiborne Classic Livestock Show, held over the weekend at the Claiborne Parish Fair Barn, bringing home numerous awards and top honors.

Students spent the summer preparing their animals for competition, with their efforts paying off across multiple livestock classes and showmanship events.

Among the top performers was Aubry Shively, who captured the event’s Supreme Overall Heifer title after earning first-place finishes in the Commercial Heifer, December Heifer, and February Heifer classes. Shively also placed third in showmanship.

Other Claiborne Academy winners included:

Addison Garrett – First Place in Market Class and Fifth Place in Showmanship.

Scott Cryer – Fourth Place in Showmanship.

Jace Holt – First Place in Market Class and Fourth- and Fifth-Place finishes in Showmanship.

Kinley Holt – Participated in the Peewee Show and received a participation ribbon.

School officials praised the students for their commitment, noting that each exhibitor devoted significant time and effort throughout the summer to prepare their livestock for competition.

The strong showing at the Claiborne Classic highlights both the dedication of Claiborne Academy’s young exhibitors and the continued success of its 4-H program in developing agricultural knowledge, responsibility, and showmanship skills.

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Betty Jane Gomilla
February 14, 1936 — June 30, 2026
Visitation: from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM before the service
Services: Saturday July 25 at 2:00 PM at Cornerstone Church

Exie Sims
JUN 6, 1941 — JUL 21, 2026
Not yet available

Donald Wayne Daniels
OCT 4, 1967 — JUL 18, 2026
Visitation: Friday July 31 from 1:00 – 6:00 pm at Memorial Funeral Home
Services: Saturday August 1 at 2:30 pm at Homer City Hall

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 has introduced a comprehensive Mayor’s Checklist of Regular Accounting Tasks to be Performed, a new guide designed to help ensure continuity, transparency, and sound financial management for future administrations.

According to town officials, the checklist was developed by the town’s accountant and fiscal administrator to ensure all critical accounting responsibilities continue to be performed once fiscal administration concludes.

The document outlines the routine financial oversight responsibilities expected of the mayor, who serves as the town’s chief executive, and provides guidance for appointing a selectman to carry out these duties if the mayor is unavailable.

Promoting Accountability

Town officials say the checklist is intended to help maintain compliance with regular accounting principles and ensure important financial tasks are completed on time.

Among the responsibilities outlined in the document are:

Reviewing monthly bank statements and reconciliations.

Monitoring payroll and payroll tax deposits.

Verifying utility payment deposits and bank records.

Reviewing and approving accounts payable and town bills.

Ensuring bond payments and loan obligations are made on time.

Monitoring IRS payment plan requirements.

Reviewing monthly financial summaries and trust account statements.

Confirming utility bills are prepared and mailed on schedule.

Verifying employee benefit and payroll reporting requirements.

Ensuring quarterly and annual tax reporting deadlines are met.

Updating the checklist as needed for future administrations.

The checklist also emphasizes the importance of documenting reviews and maintaining oversight of the town’s financial records throughout the year.

Resource for Mayoral Candidates

The Town of Homer is encouraging all current and prospective mayoral candidates to become familiar with the document and the fiscal responsibilities associated with serving as mayor.

Officials say understanding these duties is essential to maintaining the town’s financial stability and ensuring compliance with state and federal reporting requirements.

By creating a standardized guide, the town hopes to provide future administrations with a clear roadmap for managing municipal finances and preserving continuity in day-to-day fiscal operations.

Town leaders noted that the checklist is intended to serve as a living document and may be updated as needed to reflect changes in financial procedures, regulations, or administrative practices.

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The Haynesville Police Department, in partnership with Workforce Development and Shreveport Job Corps, is inviting Claiborne Parish families to attend a Back-to-School and Career Launch Program designed to support both students and adults as they prepare for the new school year.

The event will be held:

Date: Friday, July 31, 2026

Time: 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Location: Haynesville Fairbarn

Who Can Attend: All Claiborne Parish residents

The community event will provide school supplies for children while also offering valuable career and workforce information for adults.

Children attending the event will have the opportunity to receive school supplies to help them start the new school year prepared.

Parents should note that all children must be present in order to receive school supplies.

The Haynesville Police Department is currently seeking sponsors and donations to help provide supplies for local students.

Requested school supply donations include:

Backpacks

Pencils and pensNotebooks

Loose-leaf paper

Folders with pockets

Crayons

Colored pencils

Markers

Highlighters

Glue sticks

Scissors

Rulers

Erasers

Pencil pouches

Composition books

Quart- and gallon-size Ziplock bags

Hand sanitizer

Headphones

Clorox wipesKleenex

Red and blue nap mats (one of each)

Baby wipes

Career Opportunities for Adults

In addition to helping students prepare for school, representatives from Workforce Development and Shreveport Job Corps will provide presentations highlighting education, job training, and career development opportunities available to adults and young adults.

Organizers hope the event will connect residents with resources that can help strengthen both educational and career pathways throughout Claiborne Parish.

Community members wishing to support the initiative may drop off school supply donations at the Haynesville Police Department

Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To ensure organizers have enough supplies for the event, all donations should be received by Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

For additional information or questions about the event, contact the Haynesville Police Department at 318-624-1355.
Organizers say the Back-to-School and Career Launch Program is an opportunity for the community to come together in support

of local students while also helping adults explore educational and workforce opportunities that can benefit their families and future careers.

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Good news for motorists in Claiborne Parish: the LA 540 bridge on Edgewood Drive in the Town of Homer has officially reopened to traffic following the completion of a major infrastructure improvement project.

Town officials announced that the bridge has been replaced with new box culverts, allowing the roadway to reopen and restoring normal traffic flow through the area.

The project involved removing the previous bridge structure and installing box culverts designed to improve drainage, enhance roadway durability, and provide a long-term solution for travelers using LA 540.

With construction now complete, residents and visitors can once again use Edgewood Drive (LA 540) without interruption.

The reopening marks the completion of another infrastructure project aimed at improving transportation and safety for the community.

Motorists are encouraged to continue driving with caution as they become familiar with the newly completed roadway improvements.

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Residents can expect a brief chance of afternoon thunderstorms on Wednesday before a stretch of hot, sunny weather settles into the area for the remainder of the week and weekend.

According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will steadily climb into the mid-90s by Friday and remain there through the weekend.

Wednesday

Wednesday will bring partly sunny skies with a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms developing after 1 p.m. Afternoon highs will reach around 88 degrees, with light winds becoming westerly at around 5 mph. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 70 degrees.

Thursday

Conditions turn drier Thursday with mostly sunny skies and a high near 92 degrees. Thursday night will be mostly clear, with temperatures dropping to around 72 degrees.

Friday

The heat begins to intensify Friday as sunny skies push afternoon temperatures to 95 degrees. Overnight lows will remain warm, around 73 degrees.

Weekend Outlook

Summer heat will be in full force across Claiborne Parish this weekend.

Saturday: Sunny and hot with a high near 95 degrees. Saturday night will be mostly clear, with a low around 74 degrees.

Sunday: Expect another sunny and hot day with temperatures climbing to 96 degrees, making it the hottest day of the forecast period.

Five-Day Forecast at a Glance

Wednesday: Partly sunny, high 88° | 40% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms

Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, low 70°Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 92°

Thursday Night: Mostly clear, low 72°

Friday: Sunny and hot, high 95°

Friday Night: Mostly clear, low 73°

Saturday: Sunny and hot, high 95°

Saturday Night: Mostly clear, low 74°

Sunday: Sunny and hot, high 96°

With temperatures expected to reach the mid-90s by the weekend, residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. Those spending time outside should also check on elderly family members and neighbors and ensure pets have plenty of water and shade.

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Louisiana continues to solidify its reputation as one of America’s premier bass fishing destinations, with multiple lakes earning top honors in Bassmaster magazine’s 2026 Top 100 Best Bass Lakes rankings.

According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), Caney Lake earned a spot among the nation’s elite, ranking No. 10 in the United States on Bassmaster’s prestigious annual list of the country’s best bass fisheries.

In addition to Caney Lake’s national recognition, six Louisiana lakes were named among the Top 25 Bass Lakes in the Central United States.

The rankings include:

Caney Lake — No. 4

Bussey Brake — No. 5

Toledo Bend Reservoir — No. 6

Black Bayou Lake (Hosston) — No. 10

Lake D’Arbonne — No. 18

Lake Claiborne — No. 21

The strong showing highlights the quality and diversity of Louisiana’s freshwater fisheries, particularly in the northern part of the state.

LDWF credits the rankings to years of dedicated fisheries management, habitat improvements, fish stocking programs, and scientific data collection.

One important factor used in Bassmaster’s evaluation was information gathered through the Louisiana Annual Tournament Report Information Project (LATRIP), which tracks tournament catch data from across the state.

Officials say the recognition reflects the ongoing efforts of the department’s Inland Fisheries Division, fisheries biologists, staff, and conservation partners who work year-round to maintain healthy bass populations and improve recreational fishing opportunities.

From nationally recognized trophy bass lakes to family-friendly fishing destinations, Louisiana continues to attract anglers from across the country seeking world-class fishing experiences.

LDWF encourages both residents and visitors to explore the state’s freshwater fisheries using its interactive fishing maps to locate nearby lakes and public access points.

“This recognition highlights the outstanding fisheries found across Louisiana and the dedication of the people working behind the scenes to ensure these waters remain among the best in the nation,” the department said.

With Caney Lake breaking into the nation’s Top 10 and five additional Louisiana lakes earning regional honors, the Bayou State continues to prove why it remains one of the country’s top destinations for bass fishing enthusiasts.

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Homer High School’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter is celebrating a successful week at the Louisiana State FFA Leadership Camp, where students showcased their leadership skills, teamwork, and dedication while preparing for the upcoming school year.

According to the Homer High School FFA chapter, its members represented the school exceptionally well throughout the camp, participating in a variety of activities designed to develop leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.

Camp attendees took part in team-building challenges, tested their agricultural and FFA knowledge during trivia competitions, and worked together to establish new goals and challenges for both themselves and the Homer High FFA chapter as they prepare for the 2026-2027 school year.

One student also earned individual recognition during the event. Kyndal placed second in the camp’s Fun Creed Contest, an accomplishment that highlights her public speaking abilities and knowledge of the FFA Creed.

Homer High School FFA praised its members for their enthusiasm and the way they represented both the school and Claiborne Parish throughout the leadership camp.

Leadership camps play a vital role in preparing FFA members for success by helping students build confidence, strengthen leadership skills, and develop lifelong friendships with fellow members from across Louisiana.

As the new school year approaches, the Homer High School FFA chapter is looking forward to putting the lessons learned at camp into action while continuing its tradition of leadership, service, and agricultural excellence.

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Mary Grace Neal
October 3, 1932 — June 21, 2026
Services: July 18 at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church Homer

Betty Jane Gomilla
February 14, 1936 — June 30, 2026Visitation: from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM before the serviceServices: Saturday July 25 at 2:00 PM at Cornerstone Church

Christopher Watts
January 14, 1971 — July 3, 2026
Visitation: Thursday July 16 from 1:00 – 6:00 pm at Memorial Funeral Home – Homer
Services: Friday July 14 from 10:00 – 11:00 am at St. John Cemetery

Charles Melvin Cottrell
May 4, 1955 — June 18, 2026
Visitation: Prior to the service beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Services: Saturday, July 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home

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

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The Town of Homer is notifying utility customers that July billing will be delayed due to an equipment issue affecting the town’s electronic meter reading system.

According to town officials, an equipment failure with the electronic reading system has temporarily disrupted the billing process. As a result, residents should expect their July utility bills to be available around July 10, 2026, rather than on the normal schedule.

Town officials appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as crews work to resolve the issue and restore normal operations.

Residents are encouraged to plan accordingly and watch for their bills to arrive once the system is back online.

For additional information regarding utility billing, customers may contact Homer Town Hall during regular business hours.

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Main Street Homer continues to build on years of revitalization efforts with several major economic development projects aimed at strengthening downtown, preserving the city’s historic character, and creating new opportunities for residents, visitors, and local businesses.

According to Main Street Homer, the organization has spent the past decade working alongside community partners, property owners, business owners, volunteers, and local government to breathe new life into downtown. Those efforts have transformed vacant buildings into thriving businesses, improved public spaces, and attracted new investment to the heart of the city.

Now, several new projects are moving forward as part of a long-term vision for Homer.

One of the most visible initiatives is the continued restoration of historic downtown buildings through the Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Subgrant Program. The grant has helped preserve some of Homer’s most recognizable structures while supporting local businesses and protecting the architectural heritage that gives downtown its unique identity.

Another project nearing completion is the design of Gateway Park, which will greet visitors at the entrance to downtown along the Boom or Bust Byway. Funded through a Main Street Technical Assistance Grant, the park is designed to serve as an inviting public gathering space while celebrating Homer’s history and providing an attractive first impression for travelers entering the community.

Planning also continues for a downtown traffic safety improvement project funded through the Thriving Communities Grant. The initiative is focused on improving safety and accessibility for both pedestrians and motorists while encouraging continued business growth and creating a more walkable downtown district.

In addition, work is progressing on the transformation of the historic Pan American Filling Station into a Farmers and Makers Market and Store. Once completed, the facility will provide a permanent marketplace for local farmers, artisans, makers, and small businesses, showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurship found throughout Claiborne Parish.

While each project serves a unique purpose, Main Street Homer says they are all part of a broader strategy focused on long-term community revitalization. By preserving historic landmarks, improving infrastructure, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating welcoming public spaces, the organization is helping lay the groundwork for sustained economic growth.

“Revitalization is about more than restoring buildings,” Main Street Homer said. “It’s about creating places where businesses can thrive, families can gather, visitors want to explore, and future generations choose to invest.”

As construction, planning, and restoration efforts continue, community leaders say the ongoing investments represent a shared commitment to Homer’s future.

With each completed project, Main Street Homer continues its mission of strengthening downtown through collaboration, preservation, and strategic development—building not only on the city’s rich history but also on its vision for generations to come.

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The Haynesville Police Department is raising awareness about the impact of domestic violence in Louisiana by sharing sobering statistics and reminding victims that help is available.

According to the department, domestic violence continues to affect thousands of individuals and families across the state each year. Officials emphasize that these numbers represent real people and real lives, encouraging anyone experiencing abuse to seek assistance.

Among the statistics highlighted:

1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men in Louisiana experience physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime.

27,153 domestic violence incidents were reported to Louisiana law enforcement agencies in 2023.

15,172 victims received services from Louisiana domestic violence programs in 2023.

Nationally, an average of 2.4 victims every minute experience physical abuse, sexual assault, or stalking by an intimate partner.

More than 60% of Louisiana domestic violence victims report experiencing verbal, emotional, or financial abuse in addition to physical abuse.

Approximately 76% of Louisiana domestic violence victims were abused by a current or former spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend.

The department also reminds the public that domestic violence can take many forms, including:

Physical abuse

Emotional or psychological abuse

Verbal abuse

Financial abuse

Sexual abuse

Stalking and isolation

Officials stress that abuse is never the victim’s fault and encourage anyone in an unsafe situation to seek help as soon as possible.

Resources for Help

Those experiencing domestic violence or those concerned about someone they know can access assistance through:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Louisiana Crisis Text Line: Text “HELP” to 741741

Additional Louisiana resources are available through the Louisiana Department of Health at http://www.ldh.la.gov/dv.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.

The Haynesville Police Department’s message is clear: “See something. Say something. We are here to help.” The department encourages community members to remain aware, support victims, and help prevent domestic violence through education, compassion, and action.

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Residents can expect a stretch of warm, summer weather across Claiborne Parish this week, with only a slight chance of showers through Saturday before rain chances increase heading into the end of the weekend.

Wednesday begins with a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly during the morning hours, before skies become mostly sunny. Temperatures will top out near 91 degrees, with light southwest winds developing during the day.

Sunny, dry conditions are expected to dominate Thursday and Friday, making for excellent weather for outdoor activities. High temperatures will climb into the low to mid-90s, while overnight lows remain comfortably warm in the mid-70s.

A slight chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms returns on Saturday, but much of the day should remain partly to mostly sunny.

By Sunday, moisture increases across the region with a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms and highs near 92 degrees.

Extended Forecast

Wednesday: 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms; Mostly sunny; High: 91°

Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy; Low: 75°

Thursday: Sunny; High: 93°

Thursday Night: Mostly clear; Low: 76°

Friday: Sunny; High: 94°

Friday Night; Mostly clear; Low: 76°

Saturday: 20% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms; Mostly sunny; High: 93°

Saturday Night: 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms; Partly cloudy; Low: 76°

Sunday: 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms; Partly sunny; High: 92°

While this week’s temperatures will be a few degrees lower than the extreme heat seen recently, it will still be important to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks if spending extended time outdoors. Keep an eye on the sky this weekend as scattered afternoon storms become more likely.

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Football season is just around the corner, and the Claiborne Academy Rebels are preparing for an exciting 2026 campaign with a schedule that features familiar rivals, district matchups, and several challenging road contests.

The Rebels will kick off preseason action with a Jamboree on Aug. 14 at G.W. Zachary Field, followed by the regular season opener at home against Porters Chapel on Aug. 21.

The 2026 schedule includes five home games and five road contests, giving fans plenty of opportunities to cheer on the Rebels throughout the fall.

Claiborne Academy 2026 Football Schedule

Aug. 14 – Jamboree (Home – G.W. Zachary Field)

Aug. 21 – Porters Chapel (Home)

Aug. 28 – at Hermitage (Hermitage, Arkansas)

Sept. 4 – at Franklin Academy (Winnsboro, Louisiana)

Sept. 11 – at Lee Academy (Marianna, Arkansas)

Sept. 18 – DeSoto (Home)

Sept. 25 – Riverdale Academy (Home)

Oct. 2 – at Tensas Academy (St. Joseph, Louisiana)

Oct. 9 – Tallulah Academy (Home)

Oct. 16 – Prairie View (Home)

Oct. 23 – at River Oaks (Monroe, Louisiana) (District Game)

The Rebels will look to build momentum throughout the season as they compete against teams from Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi-area independent schools, with district play expected to play a key role in postseason positioning.

Players, coaches, students, alumni, and fans are encouraged to mark their calendars and come out to G.W. Zachary Field to support the Rebels throughout the 2026 season.

With kickoff drawing closer, excitement is building across Claiborne Parish as the Rebels prepare for another year of Friday night football.

Go Rebels!

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HOMER, La. — Golfers will have the opportunity to enjoy a day on the course while supporting the continued growth and revitalization of downtown Homer during the upcoming Main Street Homer Golf Tournament.

Hosted by Main Street Homer, the tournament is scheduled for Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Homer Country Club and will feature a Two-Man Scramble format.

Organizers say the event is about more than just golf. Every team that registers helps fund projects that enhance the community through downtown revitalization, historic preservation, improved public spaces, and economic development initiatives designed to keep Homer thriving.

Proceeds from the tournament will support Main Street Homer’s ongoing mission of preserving the town’s historic character while encouraging new investment and creating a vibrant downtown for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Community members, local businesses, and golf enthusiasts are encouraged to register a team and take part in an event that combines friendly competition with a meaningful investment in Claiborne Parish’s future.

Additional registration details and tournament information are available through Main Street Homer. Organizers invite participants to “grab your partner and tee up for downtown” while helping make a lasting impact on the Homer community.

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The Claiborne Parish 4-H Shooting Sports Program is looking for volunteers who are passionate about mentoring youth and helping grow one of the parish’s most successful educational programs.

Whether you’re an experienced shooter, hunter, competitive marksman, or simply someone who enjoys working with young people, organizers say there is a place for you on the team.

Volunteer coaches play a vital role in teaching firearm safety, building confidence, encouraging personal growth, and helping young participants develop valuable life skills through the 4-H Shooting Sports program.

According to Claiborne Parish 4-H, becoming a coach offers the opportunity to:

Make a positive impact on local youth

Teach safe firearm handling and responsibility

Support personal growth and leadership

Build confidence in young participants

Join a dedicated team of volunteers

Volunteer Requirements

Individuals interested in becoming a certified coach must:

Be at least 21 years of age

Complete the standard adult screening process

Successfully pass a background check

Complete all required training

Enjoy working with and mentoring youth.

No prior coaching certification is required.

New volunteer certification opportunities include:

August 1 – Ascension Parish
Shotgun
Air Rifle
BB Gun
.22 Rifle
Archery

Coordinator Training

September 5 – Jackson Parish
Air Rifle
.22 Pistol

Program organizers say the greatest current need is for Shotgun Coaches, and they encourage interested volunteers to get involved.

For more information or to volunteer, contact the Claiborne Parish LSU AgCenter at 318-927-3110 or email dhightower@agcenter.lsu.edu.

Officials say dedicated volunteers are the foundation of the 4-H Shooting Sports program, helping young people develop not only marksmanship skills, but also responsibility, discipline, teamwork, and confidence that extend far beyond the range.

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Claiborne Parish 4-H is looking for enthusiastic adult volunteers to help inspire the next generation of engineers, programmers, and innovators by serving as teachers for its 4-H STEM Robotics Club.

The program, open to students in grades 4 through 12, provides hands-on opportunities for youth to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through robotics challenges, teamwork, problem-solving, coding, and innovation.

According to Claiborne Parish 4-H, the club meets one Monday each month from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., making it a manageable commitment for volunteers who want to make a difference in the lives of local youth.

Who They’re Looking For

Organizers are seeking adults who:

Have an interest in STEM education.

Enjoy working with young people.

Want to encourage creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking.

No robotics experience is required. Training, curriculum, equipment, lesson plans, and ongoing support are all provided through the LSU AgCenter 4-H Program.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteers will:

Assist during monthly STEM club meetings.

Encourage teamwork and critical thinking.

Help students design, build, code, and test robots.

Support youth during practices and competitions when applicable.

The estimated volunteer commitment is approximately 2.5 hours per month, with the exception of a November afternoon camp.

Parents are also encouraged to attend meetings to support participating youth.

Why Volunteer?

Claiborne Parish 4-H says volunteering offers an opportunity to:

Inspire future engineers, programmers, and innovators.

Gain experience with robotics and STEM technology.

Make a positive impact on local youth.

Earn volunteer and service hours while gaining professional development experience.

Connect with other educators and community leaders.

Adults interested in becoming part of the Claiborne Parish 4-H STEM Robotics team or families interested in enrolling students this fall can contact Destiny Hightower, 4-H Youth Development and Livestock Agent, at 318-927-3110 or by email at dhightower@agcenter.lsu.edu for additional information.

With the fall semester approaching, Claiborne Parish 4-H hopes to build a strong team of volunteers ready to help local students discover the exciting world of robotics and STEM.

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