The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be alert for a scam targeting family members of individuals who have recently been arrested.

According to the sheriff’s office, authorities have received reports of individuals posing as law enforcement officers and contacting relatives of jailed individuals in an attempt to collect money under false pretenses.

Officials say the callers claim that payment is needed to secure the release of an arrested family member and instruct victims to send money using gift cards or digital payment platforms.

The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office emphasized that law enforcement agencies do not accept gift cards as payment for bonds and do not use digital money transfer applications to collect bond payments.

Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution if they receive unsolicited phone calls requesting money related to an arrest or bond situation.

Law enforcement officials recommend that anyone receiving such a call verify the information directly with the appropriate law enforcement agency or detention facility before providing any personal information or sending money.

Scammers frequently use urgent and emotional situations to pressure victims into making immediate payments, often targeting concerned family members who may be anxious about a loved one’s arrest.

The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to share the warning with friends and family members to help prevent others from becoming victims of the scam.

Anyone who believes they have been contacted by a scammer or may have been victimized is encouraged to contact local law enforcement and report the incident.

Scam Prevention Tips

Never purchase gift cards to pay for bonds, fines, or legal matters.

Be cautious of callers demanding immediate payment.

Verify arrest and bond information directly through official law enforcement channels.

Do not provide financial or personal information to unknown callers.

Report suspicious calls to local authorities.

The sheriff’s office reminds the public that legitimate law enforcement agencies will not request bond payments through gift cards or digital money transfer services.

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Colfax Mayor-Elect Timika Hamilton-Price was arrested early Monday morning on multiple charges, according to booking information.

Hamilton-Price, who was elected as the city’s next mayor during the May 16 election, was booked into custody at approximately 2:06 a.m. on June 9.

Booking records show she was charged with:

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)

Improper Lane Usage

Two Counts of Contempt of Court

According to the booking information, Hamilton-Price was released from custody at approximately 2:51 a.m. the same day.

Hamilton-Price has served as a member of the Colfax Board of Aldermen since 2019 and was recently elected to serve as the town’s next mayor.

Additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the arrest have not been released.

The case remains pending, and no further information was immediately available.

Legal Disclaimer

The charges listed in this article are allegations. All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. An arrest or criminal charge is merely an accusation and should not be considered evidence of guilt.

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A Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office investigation into the reported theft of a deer stand and several other items has resulted in the arrest of a Pollock man.

According to the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, deputies received a report regarding the theft of a deer stand and multiple items.

The investigation subsequently led authorities to identify a suspect.

Officials reported that Ricky Seal Jr., 26, of Pollock, was arrested in connection with the case.

Seal was charged with:

Theft Over $1,000

Criminal Trespassing

The sheriff’s office did not release additional details regarding the stolen property or the circumstances surrounding the investigation.

No further information was immediately available.

Legal Disclaimer

The charges listed in this article are allegations. All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. An arrest or criminal charge is merely an accusation and should not be considered evidence of guilt.

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A Winn Parish man has been arrested following an investigation into a burglary and multiple thefts in the Montgomery area, according to the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities identified the suspect as Lashard Leon Powell, 27, of Atlanta, Louisiana.

According to the sheriff’s office, the arrest stemmed from investigations into a reported burglary and theft-related incidents that occurred in the Montgomery area.

Powell was charged with:

Two counts of Theft Over $1,000

Theft of a Motor Vehicle

Unauthorized Entry of a Place of Business

Tampering with a Surveillance System

Two counts of Criminal Trespassing

Violation of Probation

The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office did not release additional details regarding the investigation or the circumstances surrounding the alleged offenses.

Officials credited the investigation into the burglary and theft reports with leading to the arrest.

No further information has been released at this time.

Legal Disclaimer

The charges listed in this article are allegations. All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. An arrest or criminal charge is merely an accusation and should not be considered evidence of guilt.

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Residents of Grant Parish can expect another stretch of hot and mostly dry weather through the end of the work week, with temperatures climbing into the mid-90s before rain and thunderstorm chances increase during the latter part of the weekend and early next week.

According to the National Weather Service, summer-like conditions will remain in place across Central Louisiana, bringing warm days, mild nights, and only isolated opportunities for rainfall until Sunday.

Sunny and Warm Through Thursday

Wednesday’s forecast calls for mostly sunny skies with a high near 93 degrees. South winds between 5 and 10 mph will help circulate warm, humid air across the parish.

Wednesday night will remain mostly clear with temperatures falling to around 75 degrees.

Thursday is expected to bring nearly identical conditions, with mostly sunny skies and afternoon highs again reaching 93 degrees.

Overnight temperatures Thursday night will settle near 75 degrees under mostly clear skies.

Hotter Conditions Friday and Saturday

Temperatures are forecast to rise slightly heading into the weekend.

Friday will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 95 degrees. While most areas are expected to remain dry, a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms develops after 1 p.m.

Friday night will feature a slight chance of storms before 1 a.m. and partly cloudy skies, with lows around 75 degrees.

Saturday will remain hot, with afternoon temperatures climbing to approximately 95 degrees. Another 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected after 1 p.m., though many locations may remain rain-free.

Saturday night will be partly cloudy with lows near 75 degrees.

Increasing Rain Chances Sunday and Monday

A more active weather pattern is expected to develop as the weekend comes to a close.

Sunday brings a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms with highs near 94 degrees. Despite the increased storm activity, periods of sunshine are still expected throughout the day.

Sunday night will remain mostly cloudy with a continued 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Overnight temperatures will hold near 75 degrees.

The highest rain chances arrive Monday, when forecasters are calling for showers and thunderstorms likely across Grant Parish.

The National Weather Service places the chance of precipitation at 60 percent, with mostly cloudy skies and a cooler high temperature around 90 degrees.

Summer Safety Reminder

With several days of temperatures in the 90s ahead, residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.

While widespread severe weather is not currently expected, thunderstorms that develop over the weekend and early next week could produce brief heavy rainfall, frequent lightning, and gusty winds.

Overall, Grant Parish is expected to experience a typical June weather pattern, featuring hot afternoons, warm nights, and increasing opportunities for rainfall as moisture builds across the region.

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State Representative Firment provides updates on insurance reform, teacher pay and the Legislature’s resolution to oppose any effort to transfer, divest, privatize, or dispose of Kisatchie National Forest lands.

Paid Content

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Journal Services LLC is pleased to welcome its newest publication, the Grant Parish Journal. This online news source joins 15 others across Louisiana.

“We feel the people of Grant Parish — Colfax, Dry Prong, Creola, Pollock, Prospect, Georgetown and Rock Hill — deserve their own publication,” Bill Vance said. “At Journal Services LLC, we pride ourselves in covering local parishes with high-quality news and advertising to keep our readers up to date on what’s happening in their communities.”

All of our journals cover local news, features and sports. Subscriptions are — and always will be — free.

Please visit grantparishjournal.com and join today.

Click to visit any of our journals:

Avoyelles Online News
Bienville Parish Journal
Claiborne Parish Journal
DeSoto Parish Journal
Jackson Parish Journal
LaSalle Parish Journal
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Natchitoches Parish Journal
Sabine Parish Journal
Shreveport-Bossier Journal
Rapides Parish Journal
Red River Parish Journal
Vernon Parish Journal
Webster Parish Journal
Winn Parish Journal

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Members of the Zion Hill Baptist Church Youth Volunteer Corps recently visited Grant Parish Animal Care and Control, where they received a firsthand look at the responsibilities involved in caring for shelter animals and promoting pet welfare within the community.

According to the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, the educational visit provided youth volunteers with an opportunity to learn about several important aspects of animal care, including responsible pet ownership, veterinary care provided to animals entering the shelter, and the role of spaying and neutering in controlling pet populations.

During the visit, shelter staff discussed the intake process for dogs arriving at the facility and explained the medical evaluations and care animals receive upon entering the shelter. Volunteers also learned how proper pet ownership practices can help improve the health and well-being of animals while reducing the number of unwanted pets.

Officials emphasized the importance of spaying and neutering as a key tool in preventing pet overpopulation and reducing the number of animals that end up in shelters.

The visit served as both an educational experience and an opportunity for young community members to gain a better understanding of animal welfare issues affecting Grant Parish.

Community outreach programs such as the shelter tour help promote awareness about responsible pet care while encouraging future generations to become involved in supporting local animal welfare efforts.

The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office praised the participation of the Zion Hill Baptist Church Youth Volunteer Corps and their interest in learning about the services provided by Grant Parish Animal Care and Control.

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The Grant Parish School Board recently recognized four longtime employees whose combined 114 years of service have left a lasting impact on students, families, and schools throughout the parish.

During a special recognition ceremony, the board honored four retiring educators and support staff members for their decades of dedication to Grant Parish Schools and the communities they served.

The retirees recognized were:

Tressa Daigrepont, Pollock Elementary School teacher, with 33 years of service.

Gay Nell Hannegan, Georgetown High School teacher, with 30.5 years of service.

Elaine Futrell, Central Office itinerant preschool teacher, with 29 years of service.

Freda Huntsberry, South Grant Elementary School food service technician, with 21.5 years of service.

Together, the four women contributed more than a century of experience to the district, serving in a variety of roles that helped support student learning, development, and well-being.

School officials praised the retirees for their commitment to children and their willingness to go above and beyond throughout their careers. Whether teaching in classrooms, providing specialized educational services, or ensuring students received nutritious meals each day, each honoree played an important role in the success of Grant Parish Schools.

According to the school board, the retirees have spent decades building relationships with students and families, encouraging academic achievement, and creating positive learning environments across the district.

Board members noted that while retirement marks the end of their professional careers, the influence these women have had on generations of students will continue to be felt for years to come.

Officials also expressed appreciation for the countless early mornings, long afternoons, extra responsibilities, and personal sacrifices made throughout their careers in service to the children of Grant Parish.

The Grant Parish School Board thanked the retirees for their unwavering dedication and recognized the lasting legacy each leaves behind within the district.

As they begin the next chapter of their lives, school leaders extended their congratulations and best wishes, expressing hopes for happiness, adventure, and continued blessings in retirement.

The recognition served as a reminder of the vital role educators and support personnel play in shaping the future of local communities and the lasting difference they make in the lives of students every day.

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What began as a childhood memory for a Pollock Elementary teacher grew into a yearlong educational journey that connected students in Grant Parish with people, places, and cultures from around the globe.

The Grant Parish School Board recently highlighted a classroom project led by Pollock Elementary teacher and Grant Parish alumna Callie Clark, who was inspired by the postcards her aunt mailed to her from around the world when she was a child.
Clark launched the initiative to help her students gain a broader understanding of geography, cultures, and life beyond their local community. The response exceeded expectations.

Over the course of the school year, students received more than 60 postcards representing approximately 15 countries and 10 states. Mail arrived from destinations spanning the globe, including Antarctica, England, Alaska, China, Vietnam, Japan, and numerous other locations.

One of the most memorable moments came when students received correspondence from the White House, an unexpected surprise that generated excitement throughout the classroom.

According to school officials, the arrival of each postcard became a special event. A dedicated “mail time” announcement and classroom cheer signaled the arrival of new mail, prompting students to eagerly discover where their next lesson would take them.

The postcards served as more than souvenirs. Each one became a learning opportunity as students practiced map-reading skills, explored world cultures, connected lessons in geography and ancient civilizations, and learned how to write postcards of their own.

The project also sparked curiosity and meaningful classroom discussions. Students asked questions about historical landmarks, cultural practices, and everyday life in different parts of the world, demonstrating a growing interest in learning about places far beyond Grant Parish.

Educators say one of the most valuable lessons students learned was that the world is much larger and more diverse than they may have previously imagined.

School officials expressed gratitude to the family members, travelers, community supporters, and friends who mailed postcards, shared photographs, and encouraged students throughout the project.

The Grant Parish School Board praised Clark’s efforts and noted the importance of alumni returning to local schools to inspire future generations.

By transforming a simple collection of postcards into an interactive educational experience, Clark helped bring the world into her classroom and encouraged students to become lifelong learners and explorers.

School leaders said the project serves as a reminder that sometimes the simplest ideas can create the most meaningful educational experiences, opening doors to new perspectives and possibilities for young minds.

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Cleco is launching its Watt Matters energy-saving campaign to help customers reduce their energy usage and lower their monthly bills during the hot summer months. 

“Each summer, Cleco shares programs, resources and practical tips to help customers reduce their energy usage,” said Tracy Daigrepont, director of customer experience at Cleco. “While customers can’t control the weather, they can control how they use energy, and during the summer months, every watt matters.”

The campaign focuses on three key areas. 

Manage It

Cleco’s Budget Billing program allows residential customers to pay approximately the same amount each month, making it easier to manage household budgets year-round.

Save It

Small changes, such as using a ceiling fan, turning off and unplugging unused appliances and switching to LED lights can help customers use energy more efficiently.

Know It

Cleco’s MyAccount platform and free mobile app allow customers to track current and projected energy use, helping them make informed decisions and manage usage. Customers can sign up for daily email and text alerts through their MyAccount profile. “Cleco also offers its Power Wise energy efficiency program,” said Daigrepont.

“The program provides energy-saving solutions to residential and business customers, including an on-site residential weatherization assessment at no out-of-pocket cost, appliance and device rebates, and an online store, Clecomarketplace.com, where residential customers receive instant rebates and manufacturer discounts on items like smart thermostats, advanced power strips, showerheads and more.” 

For more information on these programs, visit https://www.cleco.com/wattmatters

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Hall of Fame’s Round Table Luncheon will provide up-close, memorable moments

The “youngest” event during this month’s Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration is the most exclusive, yet casual, opportunity for the public to enjoy hearing from the Class of 2026 inductees.

It’s the Round Table Luncheon Saturday, June 27, at noon at Riverside Reserve, 104 Mill Street, in Natchitoches. There are still seats available for the eighth annual Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation.

Registration is available for the luncheon can be made by visiting LaSportsHall.com, or by calling 318-238-4255. It is a ticketed event.

Festivities begin Thursday evening, June 25 with the free of charge Welcome Reception from 5-7 open to all, no registration necessary, at the Hall of Fame museum facing the traffic circle at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches.

The BOM Celebrity Bowling Bash is at midday Friday, June 26 at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. Friday evening brings the free Rockin’ River Fest concert on Cane River Lake in downtown Natchitoches, from 6-10:30, with the Class of 2026 introduced at 9:15 right before a sports-themed fireworks show over the water.

Events Saturday, June 27 include the free Saints and Pelicans Junior Training Camp for kids, the Round Table Luncheon, and the Induction Reception and Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center.

The Round Table Luncheon starts with tremendous Louisiana cuisine and quickly kicks into gear with Fox Sports announcer (and 2020 LSHOF inductee) Tim Brando interviewing small groups of inductees on stage in a very informal and fast-moving setting.

A poignant scene at the 2019 luncheon unfolded before the program when Peyton Manning, being inducted later that day, stopped by to greet LSU legend Johnny Robinson, who was inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame two months later.

Scenes like that, up-close access and the fun-filled dialog between Brando and the 2026 inductees combine to provide a memorable 90 minutes.

The Class of ‘26 is headlined by a star-studded group:  Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2025 inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother.

Alexandria native and LSU baseball hero Warren Morris will receive the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, earning enshrinement into the LSHOF. His walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU and resulted in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

LSU graduate and New Orleans native Gil LeBreton and multi-faceted Shreveporter John James Marshall are going into the Hall as the 2026 winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. Former Tioga girls basketball coach and nationally-acclaimed high school sports administrator Kathy Holloway is being inducted as the recipient of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The Hall of Fame Round Table Luncheon shapes up as a highly entertaining opportunity for guests to have a up-close-and-personal experience and be entertained and well fed in a casual setting, with a touch of elegance at the Riverside Reserve on the banks of Cane River Lake just a mile from downtown Natchitoches.

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If you have ever experienced a summer bass tournament, then you understand the downside of one of these events. IT’S HOT! As a kid, I loved summertime, but as an adult I probably dread this time of year more than any other.  

I’ve always said that I would rather fish on a 30-degree day than a 95-degree day. Why? Because I can put enough clothes on to stay warm in the winter, but I can’t take enough clothes off to cool down in the summer.

Early mornings are usually not as bad, as temperatures will range from 75 to 80 degrees. As the morning warms up, by 10 o’clock you’re starting into the hot zone of 88 to 90 degrees. Then around noon, you’re looking at 90 to 95 degrees and starting to fry like a Natchitoches Meat Pie!

Sweat is now running down your back and into places we won’t mention. It’s dripping off your nose every time you bend over to lip a fish or change a bait. You have now entered the “miserable zone” of summertime fishing.

The problem is there’s no shade to retreat to unless you’re lucky enough to find a bridge somewhere on the lake. But the problem with bridges is that’s where all the crappie fishermen are, as they too are retreating to shade.

But there are ways to help you stay cool, or should I say cooler, depending on how you dress. First, a good wide brim hat is a must to help keep the sun and its intense UV rays off your head and neck region. 

Pull on a long-sleeve hooded shirt with built in UV protection like the ones I wear produced by Columbia Sportwear. They offer a variety of great UV protection shirts. There’s one I wear that it is truly unique; it’s made from plastic water bottles and is called the Columbia Omni Shade.

This shirt is like wearing an air conditioner, especially when you crank the big engine and run across the lake. It has a way of cooling you down quickly and giving you muchneeded relief from the heat while protecting you from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Even when you’re not running across the lake, just a slight breeze will help to cool you down wearing these shirts.

I wear long lightweight pants from both HUK Apparel and Columbia that also have built-in UV protection. The key to staying cooler on those upper 90-degree days is keeping the direct sunlight off the skin.

Now most people can’t comprehend or even imagine wearing long sleeves or long pants on a hot summer day. I used to be one of those guys. But ever since my Melanoma diagnosis in 2023, I have come to realize that long sleeves and long pants not only help me to stay cooler but also protect me from the sun’s UV rays

While I still hate fishing a tournament on hot summer days, I have found ways to cope with those high temperatures from June through August.

 I’ve also found that I maintain a better concentration level throughout the day by wearing clothes to help keep me cool. Nothing is worse when fishing than being too cold, too wet or too hot, as it can make for a long miserable day. 

‘Til next time, good luck and good fishing!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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What starts as one streaming service and a free trial can quickly become a monthly budget line item of its own. As subscription-based services continue to multiply, consumers everywhere are discovering that convenience often comes with a recurring charge attached.

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This week I’m celebrating fifty two years as a licensed driver. Like most men, I naturally assume I’m a superior driver. The truth is I’m just competent enough not to injure myself or innocent pedestrians. I also spend far too much time reading bumper stickers and watching what other drivers are doing while they’re supposed to be driving. Once upon a time I could read a bumper sticker from a safe distance. Now, if I want to read your bumper, I have to tailgate you. I won’t comment on the silly things you’re doing behind the wheel, but I am working on a book.

Recently I was driving a loaner while my car was being serviced—a luxury model from a certain company that apparently believes drivers need more buttons than a NASA vehicle. It was keyless, of course. To start it, you put your foot on the brake and push a button. I’m used to that with my hybrid. But this wasn’t a hybrid. This was an old-fashioned internal combustion engine, the kind that used to require a little finesse and a lot of prayer.

My grandfather turned me loose behind the wheel about three years before the State of Alabama thought it was a good idea. I learned on what we called the “lonesome road”—a gravel stretch with only one real hazard: the creek running alongside it. Where I grew up, a bayou was a creek, and a creek was something you didn’t want to drive into. The only traffic on that road consisted of grandparents giving driving lessons and children learning how to scare them.

Most of my self-taught Drivers-Ed happened in a 1949 Plymouth Special Deluxe. You didn’t so much drive that car as point it in the general direction you hoped to go. Its only luxury was an AM radio. It had a starter button too—but starting that car on a cold morning was a full-body athletic event. You turned the key, depressed the clutch, pushed the starter button, and pumped the gas pedal like you were trying to churn butter. Getting that engine to fire was one of the early rites of male competency.

So imagine my amusement when I started the loaner car with a gentle tap of a button. No pumping the gas. No choke. No carburetor to flood. No vapor lock. If automakers are going to bring back push-button starters, they could at least bring back some of the drama. Cars have changed a lot in fifty-two years. Sometimes I feel like I’m not keeping up. When the service manager asked if I wanted a tutorial on all the features, I said, “I would rather not.”

And that’s when it hit me.

There are times I feel like I’m not keeping up with Jesus either. He asks me to go and do, and I would rather not. He asks me to love and forgive, and I would rather not. He asks me to look honestly at my life, and I would rather not. Sometimes the hardest thing to face is the mirror, and I would rather not.

Preachers feel it too. Some Sundays we leap out of bed ready to preach the love of God. Other Sundays we pull the covers over our head and think about calling in sick to ourselves. On those mornings, “I would rather not” feels like a full liturgy.

And you know what? Jesus understands. In the Garden of Gethsemane, facing the cross, He prayed a prayer that sounds an awful lot like “I would rather not.” But He went anyway. For you. For me.

So this Sunday, when you wake up and think about church and feel that tug of “I would rather not,” know this: you’re in good company. Preachers feel it. Jesus felt it. But blessings live on the other side of pushing past it.

How about it.

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Long before the infamous Salem Witch Trials captured the public imagination, the first recorded execution for witchcraft in what would become the United States took place on June 10, 1648.

On that date, Margaret Jones of the Massachusetts Bay Colony was executed after being convicted of witchcraft. Historians consider the case one of the earliest documented witchcraft prosecutions in colonial America and a precursor to the more widely known Salem Witch Trials that occurred more than four decades later.

Jones, a midwife and healer, was accused of using witchcraft after some of her patients reportedly experienced unusual reactions to treatments she administered. Court records from the period cited testimony from neighbors and community members who claimed to have witnessed suspicious behavior or unexplained events connected to her.

The execution reflected a period in colonial history when fear of the supernatural, religious beliefs, and limited scientific understanding often influenced legal proceedings. Accusations of witchcraft were not uncommon in Europe and the American colonies during the 17th century, and many individuals faced trials based on circumstantial evidence, rumors, and superstition.

Historians note that the case of Margaret Jones serves as an example of how fear and misinformation can shape public opinion and government actions. Today, scholars continue to study colonial witchcraft cases to better understand the social and cultural forces that contributed to such prosecutions.

The anniversary also arrives at a time when public interest in true crime, historical mysteries, and folklore remains strong. Museums, historians, and educational institutions across the country continue to examine the legacy of witchcraft trials and the lessons they offer about justice, evidence, and public fear.

While the events of June 10, 1648, occurred nearly four centuries ago, they remain an important chapter in early American history and a reminder of the consequences that can arise when suspicion outweighs facts.

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Whether you combine finances or keep things separate, one thing matters most—having honest, regular conversations about money before it becomes a problem.

 See what Ida says 

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On Christmas Eve in 1870, a group of people, including about 16 prominent citizens of Hamilton, Ohio, gathered in a gambling room on the second floor of “the American Saloon,” an “aristocratic” drinking saloon on High Street directly opposite the Butler County courthouse.  Some of the men were playing casino at one table and others, including Thomas “Tom” Myers, were playing a game called faro at another table.  Suddenly, a gunshot rang out.  With the exception of E.D. Banister and Peter Schwab who were in the fervor of the game of casino and Tom who was seated at the faro table, the men began running from the room.  Tom stood up, leaned against the wall, and fired his pistol.  The bullet from Tom’s pistol struck the ceiling just above the faro table.  Mr. Bannister fled from the room and Mr. Schwab slunk to the floor for his own protection.  Tom fired another shot which struck the opposite wall.  Once sure that Tom was unable to fire his pistol again, Peter approached him and realized Tom had been shot in the abdomen.  Peter tried only briefly to get Tom to tell him who had shot him before he ran to get help.  Peter soon returned with Dr. Huber, who had been in the room but had fled when he heard gunshots.  Dr. Huber also tried to get Tom to explain who had shot him, but Tom was unable to speak.  Dr. Huber located a gunshot wound on Tom’s upper abdomen which had severed a main artery.  Within moments, 29-year-old Tom died.  

Immediately following the affray, all of the witnesses said that Tom “must have either did it himself or had it done.”  Based on the testimony of a young boy, Tom’s brother Joseph swore out a warrant for five men including Deputy Marshal Ich Sheely and Thomas McGehan.  Before the coroner’s jury, none of the witnesses could identify who shot Tom, but all said that Thomas McGehan had not been in the room before the shooting began.  When the accused men learned of the warrant, they turned themselves in.  In January 1871, the five men were indicted on the charge of first-degree murder.  Clement Vallandigham was one of the four defense attorneys in the trial which began on June 6, 1871.  The trial was long because over 120 witnesses had been called to testify.      

At about 9 p.m. on June 15, 1871, Clement Vallandigham and fellow defense attorney Andrew McBurney were in their hotel room discussing the case.  Clement was sure that Tom had shot himself and decided to show Andrew how Tom could have done it.  Clement pulled a pistol from his pocket, turned it towards himself, and pulled the trigger.  To his surprise, the pistol discharged.  The bullet struck Clement in almost exactly the same place Tom’s bullet had struck him.  The wound was fatal.  In trying to defend Thomas McGehan by explaining how Tom Myers had killed himself, Clement Vallandigham accidently killed himself too.  Based at least in part on Clement’s unfortunate accident, the jury found Thomas McGehan not guilty.    

Sources:

1.     The Cincinnati Enquirer, December 27, 1870, p.8.

2.     The Cincinnati Enquirer, January 31, 1871, p.8.

3.     The Cincinnati Enquirer, February 15, 1871, p.8.

4.     The Cincinnati Enquirer, June 6, 1871, p.8.

5.     The Evening Post (Cleveland, Ohio), June 17, 1871, p.2.

6.     The Cincinnati Enquirer, June 19, 1871, p.1.

7.     The Cincinnati Enquirer, December 28, 1871, p.8.

8.     “Thomas S. Myers,” Find A Grave, accessed May 25, 2026, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/106977757/thomas-s-myers.

9.     “Clement Laird Vallandigham,” Find A Grave, accessed May 25, 2026, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/2526/clement-laird-vallandigham.

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Louberta Hebert Abatie
April 2, 1927 — June 4, 2026
Visitation: Wednesday, June 10 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at Eickenhorst Funeral Home
Services: Thursday, June 11 from 10:00 – 11:00 am at Eickenhorst Funeral Home in Conroe, TX

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 has announced the appointment of Michael Dubois as the new Elementary Supervisor for Grant Parish Public Schools, effective July 1, 2026.

Dubois, a longtime educator and administrator within the district, brings two decades of experience in Grant Parish schools to his new leadership role. He began his career in education in 2006 and has served in a variety of capacities throughout the district.

Most recently, he has led Verda Elementary School as principal since 2019.

School officials said Dubois’ dedication to students, educators, and the Grant Parish community made him an outstanding choice for the position.

“Mr. Dubois’ commitment to students and to our community make him a tremendous fit for this leadership role,” the district stated in its announcement.

As Elementary Supervisor, Dubois will help oversee instructional programs and support elementary campuses throughout Grant Parish, working closely with school administrators and teachers to promote student achievement and educational excellence.

The appointment comes as the district prepares to honor the retirement of longtime educator and administrator Shana Delrie, who will conclude her service with Grant Parish Public Schools on June 30.

District leaders expressed appreciation for Delrie’s years of dedication and leadership, noting the lasting impact she has had on schools, staff, and students throughout her career in Grant Parish.

“We want to thank her for the dedication, leadership, and lasting impact she has made on our schools and students throughout her career in Grant Parish,” the school board stated.

Dubois will officially assume his new duties on July 1, marking the beginning of a new chapter in district leadership while continuing a career devoted to serving the students and families of Grant Parish.

School officials encouraged the community to join them in congratulating Dubois on his appointment and wishing Delrie well in her retirement.

The leadership transition reflects the district’s continued commitment to fostering excellence in education and supporting the success of students across Grant Parish.

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Grant Parish Public Schools was well represented at the Louisiana Department of Education’s Teacher Leader Summit in New Orleans, where district leaders and educators shared their expertise with thousands of educators from across the state.

Several members of the Grant Parish team were selected to serve as presenters during the annual conference, a distinction that highlights their leadership and contributions to education in Louisiana.

Among those selected to present were Verda Elementary School Principal Michael Dubois and Pollock Elementary School Principal Erica Firment. The pair participated in a panel discussion titled “From Rubric to Results: Practical Strategies for Implementing the LA Educator Evaluation,” where they shared insights and best practices for supporting teacher growth and effectiveness.

Grant Parish Superintendent Dr. Erin Stokes was also chosen to present at the summit, leading sessions on “Letting Teachers Teach – Policy and Practice for Effective Implementation” and “Leading with Impact: Practical Strategies for Implementing the LA Leader Evaluation.” Her presentations focused on leadership strategies and effective educational practices that support student achievement and educator success.

Special Education Supervisor Denise Young represented the district as a presenter during the session “Transition Success: Panel with DIF Grant Participants – Middle to High School Pilot Overview,” highlighting efforts to support students as they transition between educational levels.

In addition to the district’s educational leaders, a Grant Parish student was recognized for her participation in the Louisiana Department of Education’s Aspiring Educators Cohort.

Shelby McKay, a student at Montgomery High School, was selected to represent both the cohort and Grant Parish Public Schools based on her interest in education, leadership potential, academic involvement, and commitment to learning.

During the summit, McKay presented in the session “Learning and Leading: Aspiring Educators Cohort,” where she discussed her classroom observation experiences in another school district and shared how the opportunity contributed to her understanding of the teaching profession.

According to district officials, the Teacher Leader Summit attracted nearly 7,500 educators from across Louisiana, providing opportunities for professional development, collaboration, and the exchange of innovative educational practices.

Grant Parish School Board officials expressed pride in the educators and student who represented the district, noting that their selection as presenters reflects the high level of talent, leadership, and commitment found throughout Grant Parish Public Schools.

The district’s participation at the statewide conference underscores its continued dedication to educational excellence and leadership development among both educators and students.

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The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division is making an urgent appeal to residents, rescue organizations, and animal lovers as its shelter faces a critical overcrowding situation, particularly with dogs and puppies.

According to shelter officials, the facility is currently operating at full capacity, creating an immediate need for adoptions, foster homes, and rescue assistance to help free up kennel space and continue lifesaving efforts.

“We are extremely full with dogs and especially puppies right now,” the agency stated in a social media post Wednesday. “Every open kennel matters. Every foster home matters. Every share matters.”

Shelter staff say many of the animals waiting for homes include young puppies, frightened strays, and dogs that have been overlooked for extended periods. Officials emphasize that community involvement is essential to ensuring the animals receive the care and opportunities they deserve.

“These dogs are depending on us,” the post continued. “Some are puppies. Some are scared. Some have been waiting far too long for someone to notice them. They deserve couches instead of kennels and families instead of fences.”

Animal Control officials noted that fostering is available at no cost to participants. The shelter provides supplies and veterinary assistance, and even short-term foster placements can help alleviate overcrowding and save lives.

For those interested in permanent adoption, the shelter’s $30 adoption fee includes:

Spay or neuter services

Vaccinations

Deworming treatment

Microchipping

Residents can view available animals and submit adoption or foster inquiries through the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office Animal Control website at http://www.grantso.org/animalcontrol.

The shelter is also encouraging the public to share information about available animals on social media to help increase visibility and connect pets with potential adopters.

Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office Animal Control is located at 485 Richardson Drive in Colfax. Officials request that interested individuals text 318-321-0424 for more information regarding adoptions, fostering opportunities, or rescue assistance.

As the shelter works to manage its growing population, officials say community support will play a vital role in helping local animals find safe and loving homes.

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