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.
Grant Parish, La. — The National Weather Service is forecasting a warm and unsettled stretch of weather across Grant Parish this week, with daily chances of showers and thunderstorms beginning Wednesday afternoon and continuing into early next week.
Wednesday will start with partly sunny skies and a slight chance of showers, followed by a developing chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. High temperatures are expected near 80 degrees with southeast winds around 5 mph. Rain chances sit near 30 percent. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 61 degrees and light south winds.
On Thursday, a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms develops again after 1 p.m., with mostly sunny skies during the day and a high near 83 degrees. Thursday night will be mostly cloudy with lows around 64.
The active pattern continues into Friday, with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Partly sunny skies will accompany a high near 85 degrees. Friday night remains unsettled with continued thunderstorm chances and a low near 65.
Weekend conditions remain similar. Saturday carries a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms under partly sunny skies with highs near 86 degrees. Saturday night will be mostly cloudy with a 30 percent chance of storms and lows near 66.
Sunday brings another round of afternoon storm potential, with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms and a high near 86 degrees under partly sunny skies. Sunday night holds a 30 percent chance of storms with lows around 67.
Looking ahead to Monday, the forecast continues the pattern with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, partly sunny skies, and a high near 88 degrees.
Officials recommend residents across Grant Parish stay weather aware throughout the week, as repeated rounds of thunderstorms could bring brief heavy rainfall and rapidly changing conditions.
A rusted and overgrown pump jack sits abandoned, a scene playing out thousands of times across the state as orphaned oil and gas wells outpace the ability to plug them.
State faces record 6,465 orphaned wells, a cleanup bill that could top $1 billion, and a broken oversight system
Louisiana’s oil patch is leaving behind a growing legacy of abandoned wells that leak, contaminate groundwater and cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars — and on a per capita basis, the state’s problem is more than four times worse than Texas, which has drawn national attention for the same issue.
As of March 2025, Louisiana has 6,465 orphaned oil and gas wells — unplugged, abandoned sites with no responsible operator — according to the state Department of Conservation and Energy. Texas has approximately 10,029 orphaned wells, according to its Railroad Commission. But Texas has nearly seven times Louisiana’s population. Louisiana has roughly one orphaned well for every 711 residents. Texas has one for every 3,130. Louisiana’s per capita burden is more than four times heavier.
The Numbers Are Accelerating
Between 2014 and 2023, the Louisiana Legislative Auditor found that an average of about 445 wells were added to the orphaned list each year. In 2025, more than 1,600 wells were added — more than three times the historical annual average. In just the first months of 2026, another 517 wells have already been added.
Behind those orphaned wells sits an even larger problem: inactive wells not yet orphaned but at risk. The Legislative Auditor found the inactive well count climbed 21.7 percent from 2019 to 2024, reaching 21,629 statewide.
What It Will Cost — and Why the Numbers Differ
The cleanup bill has been reported in different ways, and understanding why requires a distinction between two categories of problem wells.
The first is the orphaned well count itself — the 6,500 wells with no responsible operator. The Louisiana Legislative Auditor places the average plugging cost at $113,000 per well. Multiplied across the current orphaned well list, that produces the widely cited $730 million figure.
But that number covers only orphaned wells. A July 2025 white paper from the LSU Center for Energy Studies, commissioned by the state, calculated that plugging and abandoning both orphaned and idle wells in just the Monroe and Shreveport regulatory districts — two of Louisiana’s three oil and gas districts — would cost approximately $860 million. The Lafayette district, which holds roughly 41 percent of the state’s total orphaned and idle well inventory, was not included in that estimate. When all three districts and all idle wells are accounted for, the total cost to Louisiana taxpayers could well exceed $1 billion.
Since 2023, the state has plugged just 490 orphaned wells at a combined cost of nearly $90 million in state and federal funds — far behind the pace needed to make meaningful progress.
The Oversight System Failed
Louisiana’s attempt to manage the problem through a private industry-led entity collapsed. The Louisiana Oilfield Restoration Association, created in 2019 to collect operator fees and fund plugging activity, was dissolved after a state audit found it falling far behind — and after allegations of self-dealing that included a $780,000 loan to a state official. An audit also found the association’s administrative partner was charging a 36 percent fee on revenues, nearly double the agreed cap. During fiscal years 2020 through 2023, the state plugged 976 orphaned wells through the program. During that same period, nearly 1,700 new orphaned wells were reported — meaning the system was losing ground even while operating.
The Louisiana Legislature responded in 2024 by creating the Natural Resources Trust Authority under the Department of Conservation and Energy, tasked with rebuilding oversight and funding. Financial security requirements — the bonds operators must post to cover future plugging costs — remain a structural weakness. Though coverage rose from 25 percent of wells in 2014 to 74 percent by 2024, the Legislative Auditor found the amounts collected still fall well short of actual plugging costs.
The Bottom Line
Louisiana is producing new orphaned wells faster than it can plug old ones, carrying a per capita orphaned well burden more than four times that of Texas, and facing a total cleanup bill that state and university researchers suggest could exceed $1 billion when all idle and orphaned wells statewide are fully accounted for. The consequences — contaminated groundwater, leaking methane, degraded land — fall most heavily on the rural communities where these wells are concentrated.
Sources: Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy; Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office; LSU Center for Energy Studies, “Orphan and Idle Wells in Louisiana,” July 2025; Texas Railroad Commission; Louisiana Illuminator.
April 20, 2026– The local healthcare landscape just got stronger. A dedicated group of six graduates has officially transitioned from students to first responders, completing a rigorous certification process at Acadian Ambulance’s National EMS Academy.
This group represents the next generation of emergency medical professionals, having completed an intensive 12-week program of medical education, theory and clinical simulations.
These Central Louisiana residents are among the Academy’s recent graduates:
William Bell of Alexandria
Camryn Mitchell of Leesville
Trenace Morgan of Ferriday
Brandon Phillips of Bossier
Erica Powell of Bossier
Kaycee Smith of Evergreen
Ready for the Critical Moments The National EMS Academy’s curriculum goes beyond textbooks, immersing students in all aspects of emergency medicine. These new EMTs have mastered the critical skills necessary for life’s most unpredictable moments, including:
Advanced Trauma Care: Intervention for life-threatening injuries.
Respiratory Support: Expert airway management in respiratory distress.
“These graduates didn’t just pass a course; they answered a calling,” noted National EMS Academy Director Timothy Dronet. “In 12 weeks, they transformed into the calm voices and skilled hands our neighbors will rely on during their most vulnerable hours. We are incredibly proud to see them join our team as Acadian Ambulance medics. .”
Make a Difference. Become A Medic.
With an ongoing demand for skilled medical professionals, Acadian’s National EMS Academy continues to bridge the gap between career seekers and community needs. Whether you are looking for a career change or a way to serve, the pathway to becoming a medic is open.
Upcoming Opportunities: The next class registration is currently open. Interested candidates are encouraged to attend an upcoming Open House event on April 28 and orientation sessions on May 19 or 20 to explore career pathways for EMTs and paramedics.
Learn More & Register: Visit http://www.BecomeAMedic.com to register for EMT training in Alexandria. Class starts June 1, 2026.
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.
A dominant run continues for a local high school program as the boys track team representing Montgomery High School celebrates an impressive milestone—securing their fourth consecutive district championship.
According to a recent announcement, the team has once again claimed the district title, marking four straight years of back-to-back victories. The achievement highlights the program’s consistency, talent, and commitment to excellence on the track.
“This group has done it again,” the announcement read, emphasizing the pride felt by coaches, supporters, and the community. “We are so proud of these athletes and coaches for their hard work, dedication, and excellence.”
While individual performances were not detailed, the continued success points to a strong team effort and effective coaching that has kept the program at the top of district competition year after year.
The accomplishment adds to the growing reputation of athletics within Grant Parish, where local teams continue to make their mark in regional competition.
Community members are encouraged to celebrate the athletes’ success as the team looks ahead to continued competition and the possibility of extending their winning streak even further.
Students in Grant Parish recently gained hands-on experience in public safety during the 2026 4-H Camp Grant Walker Annual Law Enforcement Day.
According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, enforcement agents participated in the event at the invitation of the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, joining multiple agencies for a day focused on education and safety awareness.
Participating organizations included Louisiana State Police, the Alexandria Police Department, the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Acadian Ambulance Service.
One of the key highlights of the event was a “fatal vision driving course” led by LDWF agents. Using specialized goggles that simulate impairment, students were able to experience firsthand the challenges and dangers of operating a vehicle while under the influence. The demonstration also included field sobriety exercises, giving participants a realistic look at how impairment affects coordination and decision-making.
Officials say the program aimed to reinforce the serious risks and legal consequences associated with driving while intoxicated, while encouraging young people to make safe and responsible choices.
Organizers noted that events like Law Enforcement Day provide valuable opportunities for students to interact with first responders and gain a better understanding of public safety careers and responsibilities.
I don’t care what sport you play, there comes a day when the Gods of that sport will humble you. So many times, as an athlete, we think we have everything figured out. We think we know more than anyone else and that we are invincible. We have the attitude “you can’t beat me!”
That’s when we get a little too comfortable in our own skin and things start to unravel and go south. For bass tournament anglers, you never know when that day will be coming. But rest assured, it will happen!
My humbling moments have occurred more than once in my 30-year fishing career but there is one that stands out more than any other. It took place about five years ago on Lake Texoma on the Oklahoma/Texas border during one of those late February events with temperatures in the upper 20s and lower 30s.
Over the years, I’ve had several tournaments on Lake Texoma and have done well there in the past. It’s a lake that I feel very comfortable with. I have a lot of confidence each time I drop my boat in the water at this famed Oklahoma/ Texas fishery.
If you’re angler who likes to power fish with buzz baits, crankbaits and spinnerbaits, Texoma is the place for you. But there are times when you will question if there’s any bass in this lake as the fishing can get really tough.
On one of my recent trips to this impoundment, I found out firsthand just how tough Texoma can be. I was preparing for a three-day event while pre-fishing in some very frigid temperatures. To say that the bite was tough would be a huge understatement.
As Day 1 of practice began, I knew that the only way I was going to get a bite was by slowing down my presentation. Bass in cold water conditions are very lethargic and slow to react to a bait.
Well at the end of practice on Day 1, I had absolutely nothing figured out as I put my boat back on the trailer after a long 9-hour day with zero bites. That’s right, I had zero bites the entire day!
Day 2 brought the same cold temperatures but sunny skies as daytime temperatures rose into the upper 40s. I thought with temperatures warming as the day went on, that maybe there would be a good afternoon bite. My thinking was wrong as I once again as I loaded my boat after Day 2 of practice with zero bites.
That’s right, I had fished for a total of 18 hours and had yet to set the hook on a single fish! So, as I laid in bed that night, I thought that maybe I need to speed up my presentation and throw some type of reaction bait like a rattle-trap, which is very popular during cold weather tournaments.
As the final day of practice rolled around, I was actually a little excited and was looking forward to trying something different. So I tied on a ¼ oz SPRO Aruku Shad in the popular chrome with a blue back. When I say I threw the paint off that bait, I mean I stayed committed to my plan and never put it down pretty much all day long.
But as only the bass fishing Gods can explain, I once again came off the lake nine hours later with zero bites! At this point, now I’m as frustrated as I’ve ever been going into Day 1 of a tournament.
To cut this article short, I’ll just go ahead and tell you that over the next two days of tournament competition, I had one bite and never caught a single fish I could weigh-in.
For the first time in my tournament career, I fished on a body of water I’m very familiar with and caught only one bass over five consecutive days!
So, for all those up-and-coming anglers, listen up — if you fish tournaments, there will come a day when you question if you really know anything about how to catch a bass.
With this frustration, you might even want to sell everything you own that’s related to bass fishing! But hang in there — sooner or later, grey skies will fade, and sunshine will return as you catch bass like never before.
Local quantum physicists are reportedly baffled by a recurring temporal anomaly centered around departing vehicles and friendly neighborhood grandmothers. A recent incident at an undisclosed Natchitoches residence has once again demonstrated that a simple, “Well, I best be getting along” functions not as an exit strategy, but as a binding verbal contract for at least ninety additional minutes of conversation, standard (weather, health) and bonus (garden pests, Junior’s third divorce) topics mandatory. Experts warn that the standard “Southern Goodbye” is not a process, but a geological event, with exit times now measured in fiscal quarters rather than minutes. We’ll have more on this story, assuming our reporter can ever leave.
This is story from a book entitled “Moments for Mothers.” The Rogers family was a strong Christian unit. Mr. Rogers took seriously his role as spiritual leader. Often at supper the family would have a Bible quiz or discuss some spiritual truth. One evening the family was discussing what heaven will be like. 7-year-old Jimmy grabbed this subject and ran with it; he had a very creative imagination.
Jimmy said, “When we get to heaven, the big angel will call the roll. He will come to the Rogers family and say, ‘Daddy Rogers’ and Daddy will say ‘Here! ‘. Then the angel will call out, ‘Mommy Rogers,’ and Mommy will say, ‘Here! ” Then the same thing will happen for Susie and Mavis. Then the angel will call my name, “Jimmy Rogers,” and because I’m little and don’t want to be missed, I will jump up and shout real loud, ‘Here!’”
Just a few days later, there was a tragic accident. A car struck down Jimmy as he made his way to the school bus. He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. The family gathered round his bed and kept a prayerful vigil through the night. The doctors told them that he had suffered severe brain damage and could not recover.
Just before dawn, Jimmy seemed to be stirring a bit. The family saw his lips move; just one word was all he uttered before he passed from this life. But oh what comfort and hope that word gave for this grieving family. In a voice clear enough for everybody in the room to hear, Jimmy said, “Here!!” and then he was gone, to another world, to a better world, where a big angel was calling the roll.
We Christians believe this is true. It is why we can live with hope in the midst of such a crazy world. We know that we are all pilgrims, simply passing through this life. Our home is in heaven.
Easter people believe that one day we will all answer, “Here!”
Troyal wanted to be a professional athlete. “The only thing that stopped me,” Troyal said, “was my professional athletic ability.” At Yukon High School, Troyal played football, baseball, and ran track and field. He was especially talented at the javelin throw. When he graduated in 1980, he attended Oklahoma State University in Stillwater on a track and field scholarship. Troyal knew he wanted to play sports in college, but he was unsure what to study. Troyal finally decided to study advertising. As a child, his parents and siblings held casual weekly talent nights. Everyone had to participate. Because of this, Troyal learned to play banjo and guitar. Troyal used his talent to write jingles and commercials for his advertising classes.
In 1984, Troyal walked across the stage at Oklahoma State University and received his diploma. Shortly after he graduated with his degree in advertising, he learned that he had not completed the requirements for his degree. He was one college hour short. The clerical error was discovered after he walked. Troyal had no choice but to take another class, but his student loan and scholarship money ended the moment he walked across that stage. Troyal was from a large family who could not afford to pay his tuition for the single class, so he had to work to pay for the class.
All through college, Troyal worked odd jobs including roofing houses and working as a bouncer at a nightclub. One night while working to pay for the remaining class, Troyal asked Dolly, an employee at Willie’s Saloon in Stillwater, Oklahoma, to allow him to play his guitar and sing for the audience. Dolly agreed. The first night went so well that she asked him to play the following night. The crowds grew and drink sales increased, so Dolly kept Troyal on stage. What could have been just a one-off thing turned into a five-night a week job. One day, Troyal said to himself, “Hey, maybe this is what you’re supposed to be doing.”
Troyal had hoped to become a professional athlete, but he sang instead. One of the songs he sang had the line “Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers.” If his prayers to become an athlete had been answered, you might know Troyal in a whole different way. You know Troyal. His full name is Troyal Garth Brooks.
April 22 is best known as Earth Day, a global event dedicated to environmental protection, but the date also holds a broader place in history with events that have shaped science, culture, and international awareness.
The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, marking the beginning of a modern environmental movement. Millions of Americans participated in rallies, teach-ins, and demonstrations focused on pollution, conservation, and sustainability. The momentum from that first observance led to the creation of key environmental protections, including the Environmental Protection Agency and landmark legislation addressing clean air and water.
Beyond environmental milestones, April 22 also marks the birth of Vladimir Lenin in 1870. As a revolutionary leader, Lenin played a central role in the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the formation of the Soviet Union. His influence reshaped global politics and contributed to the ideological conflicts that defined much of the 20th century.
In scientific history, April 22, 1994, saw the discovery of a new comet that would later be named Comet Hale-Bopp. The comet became one of the most widely observed celestial events of the late 20th century, visible to the naked eye for months and sparking widespread public interest in astronomy.
April 22 continues to be a day associated with awareness and reflection. Whether through environmental advocacy or recognition of historical figures and discoveries, the date underscores humanity’s ongoing relationship with both the planet and the forces that shape global change.
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)
An investigation by the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office has resulted in the arrest of a Texas man accused of attempting to solicit a minor in Grant Parish through online communication.
Authorities say Jacob Alexander Branstetter, 31, of Bedford, Texas, was taken into custody after allegedly believing he was communicating with a young girl in Grant Parish and making plans to travel to the area. Investigators revealed that Branstetter was, in fact, communicating with a Grant Parish detective during the course of the operation.
Branstetter has been charged with computer-aided solicitation for sexual purposes and indecent behavior with juveniles.
Officials say the case highlights the serious risks posed by online interactions, particularly involving minors. Law enforcement emphasized that individuals can attempt to target children from anywhere, even across state lines, using the internet as a tool to groom and exploit.
The sheriff’s office noted that this investigation serves as a reminder to parents and guardians to remain vigilant about their children’s online activity and to have open conversations about internet safety.
Authorities continue to stress the importance of reporting suspicious online behavior and reaffirm their commitment to protecting the children of Grant Parish from potential harm.
The Grant Parish Police Jury has outlined a three-pronged tax initiative for the June 27 election, which will be considered by the State Bond Commission on April 17, 2026. The proposals aim to sustain essential parish services and infrastructure over the next decade.+4
The requested millages include:
Public Safety and Infrastructure: 8.61 mills for the maintenance and repair of public roads and bridges.
Public Health: 2.07 mills for the operation of the Health Unit and Coroner’s office.
Parish Facilities: 3.22 mills for the maintenance of the Parish Courthouse, jail, and annex buildings.
Additionally, the Town of Colfax is listed on the agenda for a cost of issuance reporting update regarding a previous financial matter
Grant Parish, LA — A stretch of warm, breezy weather will dominate the forecast through the end of the workweek, with increasing chances of showers and thunderstorms expected as the weekend arrives.
According to the National Weather Service, Wednesday will be partly sunny with a high near 87 degrees. South winds at 5 to 10 mph could gust up to 20 mph. Wednesday night will remain partly cloudy, with a low around 64 and continued breezy conditions.
Thursday will bring mostly sunny skies and a high near 88, followed by a mostly clear Thursday night with lows around 64.
Temperatures will continue to climb into the upper 80s on Friday, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 89. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 65.
Rain chances begin to increase over the weekend. Saturday will feature mostly cloudy skies with a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms developing after 1 p.m., and a high near 88. Saturday night brings a higher chance of rain, with a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms and a low around 55.
By Sunday, conditions will begin to improve, although a slight 20 percent chance of showers lingers. Skies will become mostly sunny, with a cooler high near 74. Sunday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 51.
Looking ahead to Monday, a mix of sun and clouds is expected, with temperatures rebounding slightly to a high near 79.
Residents are encouraged to enjoy the warm and dry conditions through the week while remaining alert to changing weather conditions as storms move into the area over the weekend.
Friday, April 10, 2026 — It takes a special person to dedicate themselves to helping others. When every second counts, communities rely on trained emergency responders to stay calm under pressure and provide care when it matters most. For those seeking a meaningful, hands-on career, becoming an Acadian Ambulance Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) offers a direct path into the EMS field.
The National EMS Academy, the education division of Acadian Ambulance, has announced that the next 12-week hybrid EMT course will begin on June 1, 2026, in Alexandria, Louisiana.
“Our EMT program is designed to give students a strong foundation through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on skills training, and real-world experience,” said TJ Dronet, Director of National EMS Academy. “We want students to leave this course feeling prepared, confident, and ready to begin a career in EMS.”
If you want to work with outstanding medics, National EMS Academy offers robust training and can lead to direct career paths with Acadian Ambulance.
This year, Paramedic Don Martin and EMT Shelly Craigen were named Acadian Ambulance’s Medics of the Year for the company’s Central Louisiana Region; a recognition of their exceptional skill, dedication, and compassion. Craigen, a National EMS Academy graduate, reflects the impact of the program firsthand, while both honorees represent the professionalism and commitment to patient care that National EMS Academy aims to instill in every student through its EMT program.
Graduates who complete the course and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam are eligible to pursue employment with Acadian Ambulance, which offers tuition reimbursement for the EMT course, career advancement opportunities, including Paramedic and Critical Care Transport pathways, travel options, and a comprehensive benefits package.
Prospective students must be at least 17 years old to take the course (18 to sit for the National Registry exam), possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and have a valid driver’s license.
For more information about the June 1, 2026, course in Alexandria or to begin the registration process, visit http://www.BecomeAMedic.com.
About the National EMS Academy
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.
About Acadian Ambulance
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.
INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES REQUESTED For more information, please contact: Mavis Burroughs, Communications Specialist (337) 210-1826 media@acadian.com
Baton Rouge, La. — On April 15, the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will launch a new customer service number designed to make it easier for Louisiana residents to reach the department for assistance.
Residents will be able to call: 877-7LADCFS (877-752-3237) for child support services, child welfare assistance, and other DCFS inquiries. Hours of operation for the line will be 7:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday.
The Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline remains unchanged and continues to operate 24/7 at: 855-4LA-KIDS (855-452-5437).
Suspected abuse or neglect should always be reported to the hotline.
BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana is set to overhaul its K-12 English language arts (ELA) requirements, shifting toward what officials describe as a “return to timeless academic practices.”
The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) recently approved the revised standards, which were recommended by State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. The changes are designed to build upon the state’s recent gains in reading proficiency by doubling down on fundamental literacy skills.
“These standards reflect a return to timeless academic practices,” Dr. Brumley said. “They also prioritize feedback we’ve heard from parents and teachers who want more classroom time devoted to core skills.”
The updated standards, which are scheduled to take effect for the 2027–2028 school year, introduce several key shifts in how literacy is approached in Louisiana classrooms:
The Science of Reading: The curriculum will place a heavier emphasis on phonics and foundational decoding skills. This aligns with a growing national movement to move away from “balanced literacy” in favor of evidence-based methods that help students become independent readers.
Grammar and Communication: The revisions reinforce a structured progression in grammar and usage, aimed at improving student communication in both professional and everyday environments.
Cursive Writing: Despite the digital age, the state is recommitting to handwriting, requiring cursive as part of a comprehensive approach to literacy.
State policy requires a review of K-12 content standards at least once every seven years. The current update marks the first major revision since the 2015–2016 cycle.
The process began in 2024 and was facilitated by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE). To ensure the changes reflected real-world classroom needs, the LDOE utilized a committee of local educators, school leaders, parents, and higher education experts. The revision included public meetings and a formal comment period to gather stakeholder input.
State officials clarified that while the new standards define what a student is expected to learn at each grade level, local school systems maintain the authority to choose their own curriculum—the specific textbooks and daily lesson plans used to teach those standards.
To prepare for the 2027 rollout, the LDOE plans to provide school systems with specialized training, instructional resources, and guidance to ensure a smooth transition for teachers and students alike.
All our lives we’ve heard people say, “I was there when …” Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s home run record. I was there when Reggie Jackson hit three home runs in a World Series game. I was there when Dale Earnhardt crashed in turn four and died at the Daytona 500.
Well, there was one event that I can say “I was there when” one particular fishing bait was introduced to the bass fishing world.
It was on Lake Okeechobee in 2006 when the concept of a new bait took bass fishing by storm … the ChatterBait! This was a bait that has become a staple for all bass tournament anglers. It’s a combination of two of the best baits ever made, a jig and a spinnerbait.
It’s a skirted jig with a small blade attached to the head of the bait. It has an unbelievable vibrating action that bass cannot refuse. Over the last 20 years, there have probably been more bass caught on this bait than any other.
I remember the day that I first heard about this new bait. I was fishing an FLW Tour event on Lake Okeechobee in South Florida and the word was out about this new bait that was catching bass like crazy.
Anglers were scrambling to get their hands on just one of these baits! Some guys would pay as much as $100 to get one. At this event, Roland Martin Marina was the only tackle store where you could get one. Every day for three straight days I walked into this store and every time all the pegs were empty.
Finally, with only one day left in the tournament, I asked Mrs. Mary Ann Martin (Roland’s wife) to please put one back for me and I would pick it up after I weighed my fish on the final day.
Turns out pro angler Bryan Thrift, in his first professional bass tournament, won this event and the ChatterBait craze began. For a couple of years, he tried to keep his secret bait under wraps but the folks that make the ChatterBait asked that he please let the cat out of the bag.
It was on stage during that FLW Tournament weigh-in on Lake Okeechobee that Bryan introduced the world to this revolutionary bait. From this event in 2006 through today, there’s probably not a single bass angler on a body of water that does not have some form of the ChatterBait tied on.
The company behind this bait is known as Z-Man and they have not only perfected this bait over the years but have come out with more versions. One thing about the fishing business; it’s a copycat industry, as other companies have tried to emulate this bait, but none have had the impact of the original ChatterBait.
While Z-Man has a patent on this bait protecting their blade design, there are other brands on the market that have had a little success, but no one has been able to capture that same magic that a ChatterBait produces.
While it’s not often that many of us can say “I was there when” a special moment took place, I was actually there when one of the greatest bass fishing lures hit market … the ChatterBait!
Dixie was born on July 20, 1931, in Pollock, Louisiana. She left this earth on March 19, 2026, surrounded by family and friends, and ran into the arms of Jesus.
Dixie was born and raised in Big Creek, which remained her favorite place in the world throughout her life. She was the youngest child of the late Joshua Marshall McKay and the last of his children to pass.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joshua Marshall McKay and Secelia Doretha Grant McKay; her brothers, Alcie McKay, Calvin McKay, Elton McKay, Ernest McKay, and Ocee McKay; her sisters, Doretha McKay and Essie Lee McKay Baxley; her husband, Larry McCormick; her second husband, Gerald Talley; and both of her sons, Keith McCormick and Lynn McCormick. She was also preceded in death by a host of nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Dixie is survived by her grandchildren, Frances McCormick Racine and her husband, Jedidiah, Christopher Keith McCormick and his wife, Tamiese, Timothy Lynn King and his wife, Amanda, Amber Stroud Simmons and her husband, Will, and John Douglas Stroud and his wife, April. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, who was more like a daughter to her, Joy Paschall McCormick Stroud and her husband, Terry; nine great-grandchildren; ten great-great-grandchildren; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Dixie managed the lunchroom at Paradise Elementary School in Ball, Louisiana, while her children were in school. After they graduated, she attended Alexandria Trade School, where she obtained her nursing degree. Dixie was a dedicated nurse who devoted her life to caring for others. She continued her work in nursing until the remarkable age of 81, reflecting her deep compassion, commitment, and love for the profession.
She enjoyed being outdoors, gardening, and growing flowers and plants, especially roses. More than anything, Dixie loved her family. She was a cherished daughter, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.
A memorial service celebrating Dixie’s life will be held on April 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Big Creek Baptist Church, 1255 Dyson Creek Rd, Pollock, Louisiana, with Reverend Kerry Baxley officiating. We invite all who knew and loved Dixie to join us in honoring her memory.
The family would like to acknowledge and thank The Glen for caring for her during her last year of life, with a special thanks to Sarah with Lifepath Hospice for kindness and taking such good care of her in her final days. A very special thanks to Mrs. Bette Hopper for caring for Dixie and, above all else, for loving her like family.
John P. Thompson changed our world yet most of us have never heard of him. At some point in our lives, each of us has used his inventions. It would be hard to find a home in America which does not contain multiples of John’s inventions. They are so commonplace that they often go unnoticed.
Little is known about John Thompson, but he was born in 1857 in Iowa. After working various jobs including laborer, bank teller, and room furnisher in a couple of different states, he eventually settled in Portland, Oregon. While there, he worked as an auto mechanic. John used a hand tool to tighten fasteners to the cars he worked on, but the tool kept slipping off the fastener. This resulted in skinned knuckles and damage to the cars. Finally, John’s frustration had reached its limit. He decided to create a new tool and fastener that when used together would not slip. No one knows how long John worked on his inventions or how many attempts it took before he created his “cruciform groove” tool and fastener, but in the summer of 1932, John filed for patents for his two inventions. On May 9, 1933, the United States Patent Office granted patent numbers 1,908,080 and 1,908,081 for John’s fastener and tool respectively. For reasons that remain unclear, in the patents John assigned or transferred his rights to his inventions to Henry Frank. The connection between John and Henry has never been proven, but many people believe that Henry purchased or funded John’s patents.
Rather than investing the money to create and sell the tool and fasteners himself, Henry created a company to franchise the products. Companies which produced them paid Henry’s company a hefty royalty. In 1936, Cadillac became the first industrial customer to use John’s inventions for its 1937-year model cars. The new tool and fasteners increased production and lowered costs. Word quickly spread and within a short time the other automobile companies as well as railroad and aviation manufacturers adopted John’s cruciform groove inventions. In September 1940, John died impoverished and largely forgotten, but Henry became wealthy. John’s cruciform groove inventions could have been known as the Thompson screw and Thompson screwdriver, but because he transferred the patents to Henry, we know them by his last name. We have all used Henry Frank…Phillips screws and Phillips screwdrivers.
