News

Time to act to help stricken congregations

There is no need to go into a long explanation about the unfortunate burning of three churches in our Parish. This news has been witnessed locally, state wide, nationally and internationally by persons of all faiths.

Survey shows growing support for criminal justice reforms

Researchers in the Public Policy Research Lab at LSU’s Manship School of Mass Communication found support among people in Louisiana is growing for criminal justice reforms. Still, few believe the system is fair or effective at keeping communities safe.

Timber market downturn concerns La. landowners

Forest landowners voiced concerns about a lack of mills where they can sell their crop during the Florida Parishes Forestry Forum April 5.

Ag census released

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released the 2017 Census of Agriculture final results today, Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., said.

Large patch disease on the rise in Louisiana lawns

Large patch, formerly called brown patch, is the most common disease of lawns in Louisiana. And it’s on the rise. LSU AgCenter plant doctor Raj Singh said the disease can occur on all warm-season turfgrasses. It is particularly prevalent on St. Augustine grass.

State constitutional convention is a long shot

No bills or resolutions have been introduced for the regular session to address the issue of another constitutional convention, which had otherwise become a perennial topic at the State Capitol in Baton Rouge. And even if a proposal did surface, passage would still be a long shot.

Voters to face extensive candidate list in the fall

There will be 16 offices up for election in the the Oct. 12 Gubernatorial Primary Election. The runoff is scheduled Nov. 16. Offices are the ballot include: Governor; Lt .

Early voting begins Saturday for Eunice tax

Early voting begins at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the Eunice City Hall for the May 4 Eunice sales tax election. Eunice voters are asked to decide on a 0.25 percent sales tax to raise police and firefighter pay.

Basile Police Department’s budget busted

Basile Police Department employees received a letter from Mayor Mark Denette on April 12 indicating that the department’s budget for salaries, even though recently amended, is now at a bust. According to Mayor Denette, this may leave Chief Allen Ivory, Jr.

Legislature stalls Edwards’ K-12 education plans

Gov. John Bel Edwards placed K-12 education near the top of his priorities in his 2015 campaign, and he has emphasized his support for teacher pay raises in this year’s re-election bid.