The Grant Parish Police Jury is publicly clarifying its position regarding proposed federal legislation involving the transfer of approximately 140,000 acres of Kisatchie National Forest land to Grant Parish entities.

In a statement released Friday afternoon, the police jury addressed what officials described as “misleading information” circulating in connection with a document titled “The Grant Parish Restoration Act of 2026.” The document references proposed legislation allegedly connected to U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy that would transfer national forest land in Grant Parish to either the Grant Parish Police Jury or the Grant Parish School Board.

According to the Grant Parish Police Jury, neither the jury as a governing body nor any individual juror proposed, endorsed, or supports the legislation.

“This proposal is also not endorsed or supported by the Grant Parish Police Jury or any individual juror,” the statement read.

Officials further noted that the police jury does not speak on behalf of the Grant Parish School Board but wanted to publicly address confusion surrounding the matter after concerns were raised by residents.

The police jury stated it has been cooperating with the Catahoula Ranger District Office regarding the issue and emphasized that the circulated document was not drafted by the jury. Officials said the document was instead brought to their attention by a concerned citizen.

The circulated document outlines concerns about transferring portions of Kisatchie National Forest from federal oversight. It highlights the area’s recreational opportunities, wildlife habitats, longleaf pine forests, and protected species, including the red-cockaded woodpecker and the Louisiana pearlshell mussel.

The letter also references the region’s popularity for hunting, fishing, hiking, and trail riding, while noting that portions of the forest have been managed by the U.S. Forest Service since 1930.

The police jury encouraged residents with questions or concerns about the proposed legislation to contact Senator Cassidy’s office directly. Contact information provided includes legislative staff member Jacob Parker at feedback@cassidy.senate.gov or jake_parker@cassidy.senate.gov, as well as the office phone number at 202-224-5824.

As discussion surrounding the proposal continues, local officials say they want residents to understand that the Grant Parish Police Jury has not initiated or supported the proposed transfer.

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The Grant Parish Detention Facility is showcasing the craftsmanship and trade skills of inmates through a new initiative called “Woodwork & Welding Wednesday.”

The program highlights handmade wood and metal creations produced by inmates at the detention facility, with officials announcing that many of the custom-crafted items are now available for public purchase.

According to the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, inmates have been working to create a variety of rustic wood pieces and durable metalwork items while learning valuable vocational skills through the program.

Officials say each item is handmade with attention to detail and can also be customized based on customer requests.

Facility staff plan to post photos of available pieces every Wednesday so community members can view current projects and products being offered through the program.

Sheriff’s Office officials say the initiative is designed not only to showcase inmate craftsmanship, but also to provide participants with practical trade experience that could help support future employment opportunities after release.

“When you buy one of these pieces, you’re not just getting something unique — you’re supporting a program that teaches valuable trade skills,” the announcement stated.

Residents interested in purchasing items, obtaining pricing information, or learning more about available products are encouraged to contact Carla Blair at the Grant Parish Detention Facility at 318-627-3724.

Officials say the program represents another effort aimed at rehabilitation, skill-building, and community engagement within the Grant Parish correctional system

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Residents across Grant Parish can expect warm temperatures and mostly sunny skies through much of the upcoming weekend before rain chances begin increasing late Sunday and Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

Forecasters say daytime highs will remain in the upper 80s for several days, while overnight lows are expected to stay in the 60s and low 70s.

Wednesday’s forecast calls for sunny skies and a high near 87 degrees. Winds are expected to remain calm before shifting northwest around 5 mph during the afternoon. Wednesday night will be mostly clear with overnight lows near 63 degrees.

Thursday will bring mostly sunny conditions and a high near 89 degrees. Light southeast winds around 5 mph are expected later in the day. Thursday night is forecast to be partly cloudy with lows around 67.

Friday’s weather will remain warm and dry, with sunny skies and highs once again reaching near 89 degrees. Mostly clear conditions are expected Friday night with lows around 66.

By Saturday, skies are expected to become partly sunny with temperatures slightly cooler near 86 degrees. Saturday night will remain partly cloudy with overnight lows around 68.

Rain chances begin to return Sunday, when the National Weather Service predicts a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms alongside partly sunny skies and a high near 87 degrees. Mostly cloudy conditions are expected Sunday night with lows near 72.

The potential for wet weather increases Monday, with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms forecast across the parish. High temperatures are expected to remain warm near 88 degrees under mostly cloudy skies.

Meteorologists say residents should enjoy favorable outdoor conditions through most of the weekend but remain weather-aware heading into early next week as storm chances increase across the region.

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During Teacher Appreciation Week, Acadian’s National EMS Academy is recognizing its instructors for the work they do every day to prepare students for the National Registry Exam and their future careers in emergency medical services.

Acadian’s EMS instructors bring real-world experience, guidance, and a strong commitment to helping students build the skills and confidence needed in the field. Their instruction plays a direct role in developing the next generation of EMS professionals. Many of the company’s instructors began their careers as EMTs and paramedics before advancing into an educator role.

“Our instructors set the standard for EMS education,” said Director of Staffing TJ Dronet. “Their work every day helps build confident, capable responders for the communities we serve. Their impact is reflected in the preparedness and confidence of our graduates as they enter the field.”

The National EMS Academy is currently enrolling students for its next EMT course, beginning June 1. To learn more or enroll, visit http://www.BecomeAMedic.com.

See all of the National EMS Academy instructors at https://nationalemsacademy.com/our-company/leadership/.

Acadian’s National EMS Academy offers entry-level, continuing education and refresher courses for a number of EMS career pathways, including EMTs and paramedics. It is a nationally accredited EMS training facility with locations in Louisiana, Texas, and Tennessee and is an authorized American Heart Association Training Center for CPR and ECC courses, underscoring its commitment to high-quality emergency care training.

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The Grant Parish Livestock Club recently hosted its 1st Annual Livestock Champions Dinner, an event designed to recognize the hard work, dedication, and accomplishments of local youth livestock exhibitors throughout the year.

The dinner highlighted participants’ efforts in preparing, raising, and showing livestock, while also celebrating the discipline and strong work ethic developed through involvement in agricultural programs and competition.

Club leaders emphasized that while the Grant Parish Livestock Club may be smaller in size, its participants continue to make a strong impact in the show ring through determination and competitive success.

The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and recognize the commitment displayed by students who dedicate significant time to livestock care, show preparation, and competition.

Organizers extended appreciation to sponsors and livestock families whose support helped make the event possible.

Club representatives thanked parents for their continued dedication, noting the significant investment of time, financial resources, and effort required to support youth involved in livestock programs.

Sponsors were also recognized for helping fund and organize the celebration, reinforcing the importance of community partnerships in supporting agricultural education and youth development.

Grant Parish Livestock Club announced plans to continue highlighting the individuals and organizations behind the event over the coming weeks. Future features will showcase participating youth exhibitors as well as sponsors who contributed to the success of the inaugural dinner.

The Champions Dinner reflects the club’s broader mission of promoting leadership, responsibility, and agricultural excellence among youth in Grant Parish.
Officials say the success of the first annual event marks the beginning of what they hope will become a lasting tradition honoring the next generation of agricultural leaders.

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Norman Childers
April 14, 1935 – May 6, 2026
A memorial service to celebrate Norman’s life will be held at Bethel Baptist Church in Colfax on May 16th at 1pm.

Grant Parish Journalpublishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or billvance.erg@gmail.com. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to billvance.erg@gmail.com)

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The Grant Parish Police Jury is seeking the services of a qualified engineering firm or individual to provide engineering and related services pertaining to the Parish’s Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization Project funded through the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). The Parish is requesting Qualification Statements from qualified engineering firms or engineers to provide engineering and related services for the eligible project(s) funded through the PHMSA Program.

The proposed work will include the replacement of existing steel or PVC gas mains with polyethylene mains, sewer lines, etc. The actual location and linear footage of gas mains to be replaced will be as determined by grant award from PHMSA.

The scope of services include, but are not limited to, preliminary analysis of the Parish’s needs, preliminary engineering design, final engineering design, construction observation and project implementation in compliance with PHMSA requirements. The agreement will be on a lump sum, fixed price basis, with payment terms to be negotiated with the selected offeror

The Grant Parish Police Jury shall evaluate each respondent on the basis of the written materials submitted and according to the following selection criteria:

• Experience of the firm with this particular type of construction project(s) as described above – Maximum of 30 points
• Experience of the firm with other types of federally funded construction projects – Maximum of 30 points
• Current capacity to accomplish the work – Maximum of 30 points
• Reference from other clients attesting to firm’s quality of work – Maximum of 5 points
• Reference from other clients attesting to firm’s compliance with performance schedules – Maximum of 5 points

All responses received will be evaluated in accordance with the selection criteria and corresponding point system. Questions should be addressed to Sissy Pace, Clerk at (318) 627-3151. Responses to this RFQ should be hand-delivered and/or mailed to Sissy Pace, Clerk, Grant Parish Police Jury, 200 Main Street, Colfax, LA 71417. Responses to this RFQ must be received no later than 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 15, 2026 (Two Weeks from Issue Date).

The Grant Parish Police Jury is an Equal Opportunity employer. Small and/or minority owned firms, and women’s business enterprises are encouraged to participate.

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Early voting for the upcoming May 16 election is now underway across Louisiana, including in Grant Parish, according to the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Office.

Election officials announced that early voting began May 2 and will continue through May 9, giving voters an opportunity to cast ballots ahead of Election Day.

Polls for early voting are open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with the exception of Sunday, when voting locations will be closed.

State officials are encouraging voters to review their ballot information and confirm their designated early voting site before heading to the polls.

Voters can access their sample ballot, polling information, and other election details by visiting GeauxVote.com.

The Secretary of State’s Office is reminding residents to make a plan to vote and take advantage of early voting options if they are unable to vote on Election Day.

Election Day for this cycle is set for May 16, when voters will cast ballots at their assigned polling locations.

Grant Parish residents are encouraged to verify their voting information in advance and participate in the upcoming election.

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GRANT PARISH, La. — Residents in Grant Parish should prepare for several days of unsettled weather, with showers and thunderstorms expected through the middle of the week before conditions gradually improve heading into the weekend

According to the latest forecast, Wednesday will bring showers and thunderstorms likely after 1 p.m. under mostly cloudy skies.

Temperatures are expected to climb to a high near 87 degrees, with south winds between 5 and 10 mph and gusts reaching up to 20 mph. Rain chances stand at 70%.

Storm activity is expected to continue into Wednesday night, with showers and possible thunderstorms likely overnight.

Temperatures will cool to around 61 degrees, while rain chances increase to 80%.

On Thursday, another round of unsettled weather remains possible with a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Cloudy skies and cooler temperatures are expected, with highs reaching only around 73 degrees.

Rain chances continue into Thursday night, with a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms under mostly cloudy skies.

Overnight lows are forecast near 55 degrees.

Conditions begin to improve by Friday, though isolated showers and thunderstorms remain possible with only a 20% chance of precipitation. Partly sunny skies will return with a high near 75 degrees.

Friday night carries another slight 20% chance of showers and possible thunderstorms after 1 a.m., with partly cloudy skies and lows around 60 degrees.

The weekend forecast appears more favorable for outdoor activities. Saturday is expected to be mostly sunny with only a 20% chance of isolated showers or thunderstorms and a high near 80 degrees. Saturday night will remain partly cloudy with overnight lows around 62 degrees.

Looking ahead to Sunday, warmer temperatures return with a high near 87 degrees. A 30% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms remains possible under mostly sunny skies.

Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware during periods of possible thunderstorms, especially Wednesday and Wednesday night when rain chances are highest.

After a stormy start to the week, Grant Parish can expect improving conditions and warmer temperatures as the weekend approaches.

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Organizers of the 2nd Annual Parkin’ in the Pines Classic Car, Truck & Bike Show are now seeking vendors to participate in this year’s community event scheduled for early June.

The event will take place on June 6, 2026, at 21449 Highway 167 in Dry Prong, located next to Cougar Stop.

Event organizers are inviting a wide variety of vendors to join the show, including:

Local boutiques

Handmade craft vendors

Sweets and treats sellers

Car care vendors

Food trucks

Vendor booth spaces are available for $25 and include 10×10 booth spaces. Payment is required at the time vendors reserve their spot.

Officials noted that booth availability is limited and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

In addition to vendor shopping opportunities, the event will feature a showcase of:

Classic cars

Motorcycles

Trucks

ATVs

Attendees can also expect music, food, shopping, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day.

Organizers say last year’s turnout was a strong success and are hoping to make this year’s event even bigger by expanding vendor participation and community involvement.

Those interested in reserving booth space are encouraged to text 318-316-0003 for a quicker response and registration details.

Community members are also being asked to help spread the word by sharing the event and tagging vendors who may be interested in participating.

The annual Parkin’ in the Pines event continues to grow as a local gathering for vehicle enthusiasts, small businesses, and families throughout the region.

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Grant Parish 4-H recently held its 1st Annual Grant Parish 4-H Fishing Derby, bringing local youth together for a day of outdoor recreation, hands-on learning, and community partnership at Stuart Lake.

The event, which took place on April 27, welcomed 4-H members for a friendly fishing competition while also incorporating educational activities designed to teach outdoor and fishing skills.

Throughout the day, participants had opportunities to learn from local experts and volunteers who helped make the inaugural event a success.

Grant Parish 4-H extended appreciation to Haiden with the Fisheries Department, who taught youth about fish identification and assisted participants with casting techniques.

Additional instruction was provided by Mrs. Allison from Rapides 4-H, who led a session on knot tying, an essential skill for young anglers.

Organizers also recognized the support of Sheriff McCain and the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Department, who donated and prepared lunch for attendees during the event.

Breakfast was provided by Mrs. Meagan and Batter’s Box Donuts, helping participants start the day energized and ready for competition.

Grant Parish 4-H also thanked Academy for contributing a gift card that helped cover supplies needed for the event.

Organizers described the derby as a fun-filled day that combined recreation, education, and community involvement while giving youth an opportunity to build confidence and outdoor skills.

The successful turnout and strong community support helped make the first annual fishing derby a memorable experience, with Grant Parish 4-H already celebrating the event as a positive addition to its programming for local youth.

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Students at Grant Junior High are getting hands-on experience in agriculture, teamwork, and service through the school’s growing Good Food America Project led by the 4-H Club.

School officials say the initiative is already making a positive impact by bringing together students from both the 4-H Club and the school’s backpack program to plant and maintain a student garden.

Participants are actively involved in preparing garden spaces, planting crops, and learning about the food-growing process from seed to harvest.

Organizers say the project goes beyond gardening by teaching students valuable life skills including responsibility, teamwork, and confidence-building.

In addition to the educational benefits, the project is designed to directly support students and families by allowing harvested produce to be taken home once crops are ready.

School leaders described the effort as a combination of education, service, and opportunity, helping students better understand where food comes from while contributing to their community.

“This is more than a garden — it’s learning, service, and opportunity all in one,” organizers shared while highlighting the project’s early success.

Grant Junior High officials say they are proud to showcase the work being done by students involved in the initiative and the positive impact the program is having on campus.

The Good Food America Project reflects Grant Junior High’s continued investment in hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom lessons with real-world skills and community support.

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Grant Parish Journalpublishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or billvance.erg@gmail.com. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to billvance.erg@gmail.com)

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A simple but meaningful idea from a local student is making a difference for families in need across the community.

According to the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, a “Blessing Box” has been established outside First Baptist Church Dry Prong, offering residents access to essential items at any time of day.

The Blessing Box operates on a straightforward principle: “Take what you need, leave what you can.” Available 24/7, the box is stocked with nonperishable food, hygiene products, blankets, and other necessities to assist individuals and families facing hardship.

Organizers say the initiative reflects the compassion and generosity of the Grant Parish community, providing a discreet and accessible way for people to both give and receive help.

In addition to the items available in the box, free clothing is also being offered, further expanding support for those in need.

Community leaders are encouraging residents to contribute when they are able, helping ensure the Blessing Box remains stocked and available for anyone who may need a helping hand.

Officials say the student-led effort highlights how even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact, strengthening connections and support throughout Grant Parish.

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As hurricane season approaches, the American Red Cross is calling on Central Louisiana residents to step up and prepare for emergencies by participating in an upcoming hands-on training event.

The CENLA Disaster Bootcamp is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Red Cross office in Alexandria. The full-day event will take place at 425 Bolton Avenue and is designed to equip participants with the skills needed to respond effectively during disasters.

Organizers say the training comes at a critical time, as Louisiana communities frequently face severe weather threats. With nearly 90% of the Red Cross disaster workforce made up of volunteers, there is an ongoing need for trained individuals ready to assist when emergencies occur.

Participants will have the option to choose between two specialized training tracks. The Sheltering course will focus on how to properly set up and manage emergency shelters, ensuring families have a safe place to stay during disasters. The Disaster Action Team (DAT) training will prepare volunteers to respond to local emergencies such as house fires, offering immediate assistance including emotional support, financial aid, and recovery resources.

Red Cross officials emphasize that preparedness at the community level can make a significant difference in how quickly areas recover after disasters.

“This bootcamp is a vital opportunity for residents to gain the knowledge and confidence needed to help their neighbors when it matters most,” organizers said.

In addition to training, Red Cross representatives are available for interviews to discuss the growing need for volunteers, the importance of disaster preparedness, and how individuals can get involved in life-saving efforts.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to pre-register online in advance of the event.

Officials say events like the CENLA Disaster Bootcamp play a key role in strengthening resilience across the region, ensuring communities are better prepared before the next emergency strikes.

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GRANT PARISH, La. — Residents in Grant Parish should prepare for several days of unsettled weather as rain chances increase midweek before clearer conditions return by the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Forecasts show a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms developing Wednesday afternoon, mainly after 1 p.m., with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 86 degrees. Winds are expected to remain light, becoming southwest around 5 mph later in the day.

Rain chances will increase Wednesday night, with showers likely and the possibility of thunderstorms. Overnight temperatures are expected to drop to around 62 degrees, with a 70% chance of precipitation.

Unsettled weather will continue into Thursday, bringing another 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms under mostly cloudy skies, with a high near 75. Similar conditions are expected Thursday night, with lows around 58 degrees.

Friday is shaping up to be one of the wetter days of the week, with showers likely and possible thunderstorms developing after 1 p.m. Cloudy skies will keep temperatures cooler, with a high near 73. Rain chances remain at 70% through Friday night, with storms gradually tapering off after midnight.

By Saturday, conditions begin to improve, though a slight 20% chance of lingering showers remains. Skies will become partly sunny with a high near 68, followed by a mostly clear and cooler night with temperatures dropping to around 46 degrees.

Sunny and more pleasant weather is expected to close out the weekend on Sunday, with a high near 74 degrees.

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Residents and visitors will soon have the opportunity to experience one of the region’s newest outdoor recreation facilities as officials prepare for the grand opening of the Michael D. Burns Public Shooting Complex

The facility, developed through support from donors and the Louisiana National Guard, offers a wide range of amenities including an educational center, pistol range, rifle range, and skeet shooting field. Located on Landfill Road in Dry Prong, the complex is open to the public and does not require Grant Parish residency for use.

The Grant Parish Police Jury has announced a grand opening celebration for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 1142 Landfill Road. Registration will begin at 9:00 a.m., with shooting expos and demonstrations starting at 10:00 a.m.

Officials say the event will include food, prizes, and opportunities for attendees to explore the facility and participate in shooting sports demonstrations. Guests are encouraged to bring their own firearms and ammunition, provided they are unloaded and securely transported.

The complex is designed with a strong emphasis on safety, education, and responsible firearm use, while also promoting recreational shooting sports for all experience levels—from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.

Daily access to the facility is available for $5 per person, allowing visitors to utilize the ranges and participate in activities at an affordable rate.

Community leaders describe the project as a major addition to outdoor recreation opportunities in Grant Parish, highlighting its potential to support education, safety training, and tourism.

For more information about the facility and upcoming events, residents can visit the Grant Parish Police Jury website or follow official updates on social media.

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April 27, 2026 — The American Ambulance Association (AAA) has honored Acadian Companies Executive Vice President Allyson Pharr with its President’s Award, recognizing her exceptional leadership, commitment to EMS, and enduring impact on the profession.

During the ceremony at the Association’s annual conference, AAA President Jamie Pafford-Gresham described Pharr’s contributions to the Association as both extensive and influential. “Allyson has served in multiple leadership roles, including Director, Secretary, and member of the Executive Committee, while also playing a key role in advancing government affairs efforts,” Pafford-Gresham said. “Known for her ability to build meaningful relationships with policymakers and stakeholders, she has helped strengthen the industry’s voice at the national level and has actively mentored others to engage in advocacy and leadership.”

As she accepted the award, Pharr expressed gratitude to her family, Acadian Companies colleagues, AAA staff, and the broader EMS workforce, emphasizing the shared mission that defines the profession. She reflected on her unexpected path into EMS—what began as a short-term role became a lifelong career—and credited the dedication of frontline crew members, dispatchers, and support teams as her inspiration.

She also acknowledged Acadian’s late founder, Richard Zuschlag, for his support and encouragement during her career.

Acadian Ambulance is the largest employee-owned ambulance service in the nation, providing transportation and medical services to areas in Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. It is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services, and a member of the American Ambulance Association, dedicated to safeguarding the future of mobile healthcare through advocacy, thought leadership, and education. Its sister division, Acadian Air Med, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems.

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Families across Grant Parish are invited to a morning of hands-on learning, outdoor fun, and community resources at the upcoming 2nd Annual Outdoor Family Adventure & Expo hosted by the Grant Parish School Board.

The free event will be held Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the B22 Sports Complex in Dry Prong.

Organizers say the event is designed to encourage family engagement through interactive outdoor activities, educational experiences, and access to local resources.

The first 150 families in attendance will receive a free book and event backpack. Activities planned for the morning include meeting Smokey Bear, visiting a petting zoo, and participating in a Storybook Walk featuring In the Tall, Tall Grass.

Children and families will also be able to explore planting stations, sensory play areas, campfire storytelling, and live music. In addition, an indoor Family Expo will be available, offering information and resources designed to support local families.

School officials describe the event as a blend of play and learning aimed at strengthening family connections while promoting outdoor education and literacy.

The Grant Parish School Board is encouraging residents from across the parish to attend and take part in the free community event, which highlights the district’s ongoing commitment to family involvement and student enrichment.

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A student from Verda Elementary School is being recognized after a strong performance at a statewide competition earlier this month.

Fifth-grade student Jackson Lemoine competed at the 4-H State Shooting Competition held on April 15, where he placed 15th out of 40 competitors from across Louisiana.

School officials say Lemoine represented Grant Parish well during the event, demonstrating focus, discipline, and skill throughout the competition. His performance placed him in the top half of a highly competitive field at the state level.

Verda Elementary praised the young competitor, noting their pride in his achievement and his role representing “OUR HIVE” on a statewide stage.

Educators and supporters also encouraged continued participation in future competitions, highlighting Lemoine as a student to watch in the coming years as he continues to develop his skills in the sport.

The school community extended congratulations to Jackson Lemoine for his accomplishment and his representation of Grant Parish at the state level.

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Rhonda Karol Edwards Mercer
December 1, 1959 – April 24, 2026
Visitation: Thursday, April 30 from 9:00AM – 11:00AM at Gallagher Funeral Home
Services: Thursday, April 30 at 11:00AM – 12:00PM at Gallagher Funeral Home

Shirley Elaine Harter
March 24, 1955 – April 23, 2026
not available

Grant Parish Journalpublishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or billvance.erg@gmail.com. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to billvance.erg@gmail.com)

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The Grant Parish School Board proudly recognized a group of outstanding students from across the parish who had qualified for the 2026 State Literary Rally, one of Louisiana’s longest-standing academic competitions.

The Louisiana High School Literary Rally brings together top-performing students from across the state to compete in a wide range of subject-area tests, including English, mathematics, science, history, computer science, and more. Students first had to qualify at the district level, making their advancement to the state competition a significant academic achievement.

Students from three high schools—Georgetown High School, Grant High School, and Montgomery High School—were among those earning spots at the state level.

From Georgetown High School, qualifiers included Kameron Bates (Family and Consumer Science), Tripp Jones (Ag III), Colby Barrett (Health), Cole Griffith (Financial Literacy), Luke Fry (Ag I), Jackson Gore (Computer Science), Blake Winslett (Nutrition and Food), Jorja Griffith (Sociology), Sarah Riggs (Journalism), Katie Riggs (Civics), Jacelynn Greenfield (Environmental Science), and Emma Johnson (Ag II).

Grant High School was represented by Lenny Logan (Advanced Math: Functions & Statistics), Breena Owens (Agriscience I), Van Zohner (Biology II), Jacob Antilley (Computer Science, 1st Place Overall), Khloe Martin (English I), Makinlee Albert (Financial Literacy), Ella Firment (Government), Gracelyn Shirley (Nutrition & Food), and Addison Jones (Spanish I).

Montgomery High School qualifiers included Jarin Gibson (U.S. History and Biology II), Sam Koss (Algebra II & English III), Daniel Reeves (Biology), Jaxon Grindstaff (Advanced Math), Andrew Blair (English IV), Jackson Munson (Health), and Jared Gibson (Nutrition & Food, 1st Place Overall).

These students were set to represent Grant Parish at the State Literary Rally held at Louisiana State University on April 18, 2026, where they were expected to compete alongside some of the top academic students in Louisiana.

District officials and school staff expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments and extended their congratulations for reaching this level of academic excellence. As the competition approached, the district noted it was eagerly anticipating the results and wishing all participants the best of luck at the state level.

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