Amite Man and Greensburg Man Killed in Separate Overnight Crashes

Crash 1.  Saturday (March 30, 2024) night, shortly after 9:00 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 10 near Turner Chapel Road in St. Helena Parish. The crash claimed the life of 37-year-old Donrico Turner of Greensburg. The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as Turner was westbound on LA Hwy 10 on a 2020 Honda TRX 420 (All-Terrain Vehicle). For reasons still under investigation, Turner lost control of the Honda and it overturned. Turner was ejected from the vehicle. Turner sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced deceased on the scene. This crash remains under investigation. Reminder: Louisiana State Police reminds the public that the use of ATVs and utility task vehicles (UTVs) on roadways is illegal unless directly related to farming or other duties outlined by Louisiana Revised Statue 32:299. The law can be found by following this link: LRS 32:299. Additionally, properly utilizing safety equipment while riding on ATVs or UTVs, such as seatbelts and a helmet, can decrease the risk of serious injury or death.

Crash 2.  Sunday (March 31, 2024) morning, shortly after 2:30 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on LA Hwy 442 near Copperhead Road in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 60-year-old David Lake of Amite. The preliminary investigation revealed that the crash occurred as Lake was walking in the westbound lane of LA Hwy 442. At the same time, a 2015 Nissan Altima was westbound on LA Hwy 442. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan struck the pedestrian in the westbound lane of LA Hwy 442. Lake sustained severe injuries as a result of the crash. He was transported to a local hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the Nissan was properly restrained and uninjured. As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained from Lake and the driver for analysis. Reminder: Pedestrians and motorists are urged to remain vigilant while on roadways and pay close attention to their surroundings. Crashes involving pedestrians can often be avoided by following some basic safety guidelines. Pedestrians should wear light-colored or reflective clothing and should avoid walking on the roadway in dark areas. Pedestrians must assume that approaching motorists cannot see them, especially at night. Pedestrians should cross roadways in well-lit, designated areas and should always walk facing traffic. These simple steps can enhance safety for pedestrians.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 30, 2024

Aneake Ballard (age 49 with New Orleans, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While
Intoxicated and Improper Lane Usage by the Franklinton Police Department. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Gaines Stegall (age 30 with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts). Released on $5000.00 bond.

Callie Painter (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary, Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000, and Criminal Trespass by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Rocky Jenkins

July 9, 1979 - March 30, 2024

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Partly sunny, with a high near 80. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tonight   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Monday   Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. South wind 5 to 15 mph.

Monday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 54. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming northwest after midnight.

Obituary

Jewel Delton Rogers

June 20, 1938 - March 30, 2024

Obituary

Timothy Herbert "Herb" Templet

March 7, 1960 - March 29, 2024

Obituary

H. Shelby McKenzie

January 27, 1938 - March 29, 2024

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 28-29, 2024

Konner Ford (age 25 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of 2nd Degree Murder,
Battery on a Police Officer (2 counts), Criminal Damage, and Tampering With Surveillance, Accounting, Inventory or Monitoring Systems of Jail. Bond set at $808500.00.

Dequarius Elzey (age 18 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charge of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder. Bond set at $500000.00.

Michael Jenkins (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked In For Court

Jennifer McDaniel (age 51 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Jenny Moreno (age 49 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charge of Principle to Attempted Bank Fraud and Forgery by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Justin Bickham (age 28 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (3 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kordarrius Mingo (age 25 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (3 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 3 Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Drugs, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, and Probation and Parole Hold by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Cedric Bolds (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of No Taillight on Bicycle, Resisting an Officer, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Heroin and Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

De-Salaam Pittman (age 24 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (3 counts) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Shaun Hobgood (age 44 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Use Turn Signal 100 ft. Prior to Turn, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting an Officer, Open Container in Vehicle, Probation and Parole Hold, Obstructing Public Passage(s), and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

The following photos of persons booked above were released by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office in accordance with their updated policy, guided by legal and ethical considerations.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Mostly sunny, with a high near 79. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   Increasing clouds, with a low around 59. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday   Partly sunny, with a high near 81. South wind 5 to 15 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. South wind around 10 mph.

Monday   Mostly cloudy, with a high near 84. South wind 10 to 15 mph.

Monday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. South wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

Not Just the Blues: Indigos and Wild or False Indigos

When I think about wisterias, which were discussed in last week’s article, I sometimes think of the indigo plant – Kirilow’s or Chinese indigo (Indigofera kirilowii) – that’s cultivated under tree canopies in Louisiana. This wisteria relative produces pinkish flower clusters (racemes) similar in size to those of American wisteria. It begins flowering in the spring and produces some blooms in summer and fall, too.

Kirilow’s indigo is a deciduous plant that remains short, growing approximately 2 to 3 feet tall, rather than climbing like wisterias do. Where conditions are good for its growth, it often spreads but is not considered invasive. It grows well in partial shade.

Despite the name, Kirilow’s indigo is not one of the indigos that was a major historic source of dye. Those species include true indigo (I. tinctoria) and anil de pasto or bush indigo (I. suffruticosa). The latter is native to Louisiana but more common in the west-central part of the state than the Florida Parishes. A third major source of indigo dye was not an Indigofera species at all but a mustard family plant called woad (Isatis tinctoria).

Besides Kirilow’s indigo, there are wild or false indigos in the Baptisia genus that are grown as ornamental plants in the southeastern US. Like Indigofera species, these are in the bean family, and some have historically been used to produce dye. Wild indigos support bees and butterflies.

Blue wild indigo (Baptisia australis) was used to make dye in North America before true indigo was cultivated here. The Perennial Plant Association named it the Perennial Plant of the Year for 2010. It produces blue flowers in spring and grows to approximately 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. It’s native to much of the eastern US though not to Louisiana.

Like blue wild indigo, white wild indigo’s (B. alba) name reflects its flower color. This one is native to Louisiana, including the Florida Parishes.

Other Baptisia species found in Louisiana include several yellow-flowered species: longbract or nodding wild indigo (B. bracteata), Nuttall's wild indigo (B. nuttalliana), and yellow wild indigo (B. sphaerocarpa). The yellow wild indigo variety ‘Screamin’ Yellow’ performed well at the Hammond Research Station.

Plant wild indigos on sites with full to partial sun exposure and well-drained soil, but provide adequate moisture while they’re getting established.

Let me know if you have questions.

Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages

Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).

St. Tammany Coroner to Reconsider SANE Program

St. Tammany Parish Coroner Dr. Christopher Tape said he will reevaluate his decision to suspend the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program after reviewing agency records. Tape had previously announced that he would suspend the SANE program upon taking office on March 25.

Click here for more on the controversy regarding Tape and his suspension of the SANE program.

“My decision was based on three factors: the cost to the people of St. Tammany, the liability to the agency I now lead, and legal factors regarding evidence collection,” Tape said. “I understand that my decision has created a surprise hardship for the other four parishes in Region 9 of the State Health Department, including my fellow coroners, law enforcement, hospitals and, most importantly, for potential survivors of sexual assault.

“I may have failed to make clear that I think the SANE program is a tremendous asset to the community, and that my concern is the well-being of St. Tammany,” Tape said. “I’m coroner of this parish, after all, not the entire region. In only four days in office, I’ve learned that the SANE program has cost the people of St. Tammany more than $60,000 so far this year – and nearly $200,000 in 2023. Fewer than half of SANE cases last year came from the Parish I serve. This concerns me, particularly when legal and liability issues are factored in. Despite those issues and my remaining concerns, I have heard you,”

 Tape said. “I’m willing to re-launch the program for a trial period while allowing the other parishes and agencies involved to develop alternative plans, or for us all to come to the table and work out an equitable funding solution. To that end, I will be inviting the coroners from the other Region 9 parishes to meet next week, after the Easter Holiday.”

“I failed to communicate earlier that I sincerely want to revive the program for St. Tammany Parish, and am willing to work with other agencies to re-organize and re-implement it region-wide,” Tape said. “I apologize for failing to communicate these issues sooner, and hope the people of St. Tammany will give me a chance to prove my commitment to serving all of our community in the best and most cost-effective ways possible.”

Bogalusa-area Man Fled From Police After Traffic Stop

The Bogalusa Police Department has reported that 44 year-old Shaun Hobgood, ️a Bogalusa-area man, was arrested after 3+ ounces of methamphetamines and heroin were located inside of his vehicle during a traffic stop on Wednesday (March 27, 2024).

A Bogalusa Police Officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was occupied by the Hobgood. Hobgood fled on foot but was quickly caught and placed under arrest. A subsequent search of Hobgood's vehicle revealed him to be in possession of approximately 3.07 ounces of methamphetamine, a small amount of heroin, and an assortment of other illegal narcotics and contraband. 

Hobgood was later booked into the Washington Parish Jail on the charges of Failure to Use Turn Signal 100 ft. Prior to Turn, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting an Officer, Open Container in Vehicle, Probation and Parole Hold, Obstructing Public Passage(s), and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction.

A/Assistant Chief Tervalon commends the hard work and dedication exhibited by the men and women of the Bogalusa Police Department. Removing these dangerous substances from our community will continue to be a priority.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Sunny, with a high near 74. South wind around 10 mph.

Tonight   Increasing clouds, with a low around 52. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 78. East wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the morning.

Saturday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday   Partly sunny, with a high near 82. South wind 5 to 15 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind around 15 mph.

Obituary

Canaan Harold Curtis

October 21, 2006 - March 17, 2024

Man Wanted for Stalking & More in Tangipahoa Parish

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriffs Office is asking the public’s assistance in locating a wanted man. Sheriff Daniel Edwards says 67 year-old Maurice Callihan of Hammond is wanted for numerous charges that include Criminal Damage, Cyberstalking, Telephone harassment, Terrorizing, False Communicating of a Planned Arson, and Stalking (3 counts).

Callihan also has two Failure to Appear warrants for previous charges relevant to stalking, criminal damage and a protective order violation. 

Sheriff Edwards asks anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Callihan to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 985-345-6150, OR if you wish to remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line at 1.800.554.5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! You may be eligible for a cash reward.

Obituary

Verna Lee Keaton

June 6, 1930 - March 27, 2024

Obituary

Tamola Talley Thomas

September 18, 1968 - March 26, 2024

Obituary

Bobbie Louise Rayford

November 25, 1944 - March 18, 2024

Obituary

Fredrick Miller

July 30, 1955 - March 9, 2024

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 26-27, 2024

Kandi Lee (age 37 with Poplarville, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II
Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Christopher Warren (age 28 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.

James Thomas (age 47 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Robert Bush (age 25 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Comply With Sex Offender Registration Requirements by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Sunny, with a high near 72. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 42. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 76. East wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 51. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday   Partly sunny, with a high near 79. Light southeast wind becoming south 10 to 15 mph in the morning.

Saturday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 57. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Obituary

Bridget Ann Brewer

February 10, 1961 - March 26, 2024

Obituary

Vergie Thomas Nolan

March 5, 1951 - March 24, 2024

WPSS Hiring Teachers

Do you have a bachelor's degree? Have you thought about teaching but never applied because you weren’t certified? If you are committed to making a difference in student's lives, we welcome your consideration of the Washington Parish School System as a career choice. We’ll even help you obtain your certification.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• ✅ A variety of HMO health plans
• ✅ Group life insurance
• ✅ State-supported retirement
• ✅ Credit union
• ✅ Dental care plans
• ✅ Flexible spending accounts and tax-deferred annuities

🌟We also promote earning advanced degrees by providing financial support for educators pursuing continuing educational studies.

Click the link https://www.wpsb.org/careers to access our hiring website! 

*Math and Science are high-need areas.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Increasing clouds, with a high near 68. North wind 5 to 15 mph.

Tonight   Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 43. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 70. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 42. North wind around 5 mph becoming east after midnight.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 75. East wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 51. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Obituary

Lezlie Ortman

February 10, 1955 - March 14, 2024

Obituary

Gladys Corkern Passman

August 28, 1928 - March 25, 2024

Obituary

Wilton Leslie Hunt

June 1, 1952 - March 25, 2024

Obituary

Paul Kentrell Ard

October 11, 2023 - March 18, 2024

Obituary

Willie Frazier Brumfield

April 13, 1945 - March 14, 2024

Bicyclist Killed in Tangipahoa Parish Crash

Monday (March 25, 2024) morning, shortly after 6:45 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a bicyclist on LA Hwy 40 near Brennon Lane in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 59-year-old Clayton Ard of Loranger.

The initial investigation revealed that Ard was southbound on LA Hwy 40 on a bicycle. At the same time, a 2018 Hyundai Sonata was also southbound on LA Hwy 40 behind the bicycle. For reasons still under investigation, the Hyundai impacted the bicycle.

Ard sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the Hyundai was properly restrained and was uninjured. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind bicyclists to never assume that a motorist can see you. Simple precautions such as wearing an approved bicycle helmet, reflective materials, and avoiding distractions are vital in preventing crashes and avoiding injuries. Louisiana law requires bicyclists to remain as close to the right side of the roadway as practicable and obey all traffic laws. Troopers would also like to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted, follow all traffic laws, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 25, 2024

Jessica Gorsuch (age 37 with New Orleans, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd + Offense), Resisting an Officer, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Prohibited Acts/Schedule II, Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Driving Under Suspension, Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order. Bond set at $10750.00.

Kimberly Owens (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Rex Woodward (age 38 with Columbia, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000, Simple Escape, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction (2 counts). Bond set at $5000.00.

Christina Williford (age 42 with Zachary, La. address) was booked In From Court

Douglas Demmons (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Damien Greely (age 43 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $14000.00.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Wanted by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office

The Washington Parish Sheriff's Office needs your help in locating the following individuals who are wanted with active warrants. We urge anyone with information on their whereabouts to come forward. To those listed, we encourage you to surrender yourselves peacefully.

• Ronald Dejoyce Alexander - DOB 11/13/1978 - Wanted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
• Glenn Everett Burton - DOB 03/11/1989 - Wanted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
• Robert Adam Bush - DOB 07/22/1998 - Wanted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
• Shun Dwayne Chapman - DOB 06/07/1980 - Wanted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
• Percy Jerome Griffin - DOB 11/23/1989 - Wanted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
• Larry Myrick - DOB 02/04/1977 - Wanted for Simple Burglary
• Tyrais Robinson - DOB 03/12/1996
• Matthew Gene Swindle - DOB 05/28/1998 - Wanted for Felony Domestic Abuse - Child Endangerment and Domestic Abuse Battery - Child Endangerment
• Lenard Maquis Warner - DOB 08/16/1994 - Wanted for Theft of less than $1,000
• Christopher Michael Warren - DOB 08/22/1995 - Wanted for Theft of more than $1,000 but less than $5,000

Your cooperation is crucial in ensuring the safety of our community. Please contact the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office with any information you may have. Let's work together to uphold the law and keep our neighborhoods safe.

***All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 9am. Mostly cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 75. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 47. North wind around 5 mph.

Wednesday   Increasing clouds, with a high near 70. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. North wind around 10 mph.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 71. North wind around 10 mph.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 43. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

St. Tammany Detectives Have Busy Weekend

It was another busy weekend for members of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Narcotics and Proactive Enforcement units, with investigators making six arrests in the Lacombe area on Saturday (March 23, 2024).

1.     After developing information regarding narcotics sales in the area, investigators traveled to a residence in the 20000 block of W. Spruce St. where probable cause was established for the issuance of a search warrant. A variety of drugs, two handguns, and assorted drug paraphernalia was located. Arrested were 45 year-old Shashamby Diaz and 26 year-old Ahmad Batiste. 

2.     After leaving the residence on W. Spruce, investigators conducted a traffic stop on N. Pontchartrain Drive and came into contact with 66 year-old David Williams. Williams had seven failure to appear attachments. He was arrested on attachments stemming from charges for Possession of Stolen Things, Theft, Possession of drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule I CDS, Possession of Schedule II CDS and Refusal to Identify.

3.     Detectives then traveled to Shirley Sweet Shop Road, after receiving information regarding possible narcotics sales in that area. While patrolling the area, detectives came into contact with 41 year-old Crystal Batiste who was arrested on charges of Possession of a Schedule I CDS (marijuana), Possession of Schedule II CDS (methamphetamine), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

4.     Detectives also conducted a traffic stop on Sycamore Street, where contact was made with 28 year-old Daniel Hopkins and 40 year-old Heather Sharp. The investigation that followed revealed that the pair was in possession of approximately 3.8 grams of suspected fentanyl and they were arrested on various drug and traffic charges.

“The detectives in our Narcotics and Proactive Enforcement Units have taken a very proactive approach, working in the areas where we are receiving tips and information about suspected drug activity, to locate and arrest those individuals who are bringing these dangerous drugs into our community,” Sheriff Randy Smith said, “but it takes a partnership between law enforcement and citizens. I encourage everyone to continue calling in the tips when they see something suspicious in their neighborhood.”

Sheriff Smith is asking anyone with information about narcotics, or other crimes, to submit a tip utilizing the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office website (www.STPSO.com), or by calling the narcotics tip line (1-888-GO-2-JAIL).

Obituary

Jack Goff, Jr.

March 22, 2024

Slidell-area Student Arrested for Menacing

A student at a Slidell-area junior high school was arrested over the weekend after making a threat on social media.

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office was contacted Sunday (March 24, 2024) morning after the FBI received a tip that a local teenager had sent a threatening message over SnapChat.

The 14-year-old was located and admitted to sending the threatening photo. He was issued a summons for Menacing and was released on a custodial agreement to appear in court.

“We have made it very clear that comments like this will be taken seriously,” St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Randy Smith said.  “Parents, please talk to your children and explain the seriousness of making comments like this, even in a joking manner.”

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 22-24, 2024

Raquan Handy (age 25 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Theft 1000-5000, Attempted Bank Fraud, Theft of Auto/Vehicle, and Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $15000.00.

Jalisa Peters (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked In From Court

William Stricklan (age 40 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Clinton White (age 52 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Aggravated Assault and Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Emily Westmoreland (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (6 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Cody Jones (age 28 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2500.00 bond.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Drugs, Firearms, Cash Seized in Tangipahoa and St. Tammany Operation

On March 21, 2024, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office closed an extensive ongoing investigation into suspected illegal drug activity that began as the result of multiple complaints of alleged drug activity taking place on the east side of Ponchatoula, just outside the city limits. As a result, the operation led to multiple arrests and the seizure of a large quantity of illegal narcotics, firearms, and cash – in two parishes.

TPSO detectives learned their primary person of interest, 49-year-old Byron "Spook" Seymore, had ties to and residences in Ponchatoula and the Mandeville area, a discovery that broadened the scope of the investigation.

On March 21, 2024, in collaboration with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office and the Department of Homeland Security, narcotics related search warrants were obtained and simultaneously executed at residences in both parishes.

The search of Seymore's Ponchatoula residence yielded a significant number of illicit substances, including: 

• 275 individual bags of heroin weighing approximately 10 ounces.
• 45 individual bags of suspected Fentanyl weighing around 1.25 ounces.
• 5 individual bags of suspected Crack Cocaine, totaling approximately 2.5 ounces.
• 13 individual bags of suspected Cocaine, with a combined weight of roughly 1.5 ounces.
• Three individual bags of suspected methamphetamine, amounting to approximately 2 grams.
• One bag containing numerous suspected MDMA pills, weighing approximately 1.75 ounces, along with another package containing 11 individual pills (presumed to be MDMA).
• 15 individual bags of suspected Marijuana weighing approximately 9 ounces.
• A loaded 5.7 caliber semiautomatic pistol.

Detectives also made the startling discovery of several precursor items typically used for the manufacturing of heroin/fentanyl. These items included materials used to enhance the potency and quantity of the drugs, mixing containers with traces of controlled substances, electric blenders, packing materials for distribution, and digital weighing scales.

The search of Seymore's St. Tammany Parish residence near Mandeville produced four unlawfully possessed semiautomatic firearms and more than $38,000 in cash believed to be proceeds from illegal drug sales.

Detectives also discovered that Seymore was under the supervision of the Federal Bureau of Prison Probation and Parole for drug-related charges until 2029.

"This was a thorough and well-planned operation involving federal and local law enforcement agencies," Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Edwards said. "Strong partnerships as such are imperative to successful outcomes like this. Job well done."

"Criminals don't know jurisdictional boundaries," St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Randy Smith said, "which is why it is important for law enforcement agencies to work together to keep illegal drugs and firearms out of neighborhoods. We have an excellent working relationship with both Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office and our federal partners with Homeland Security."

Charged in Tangipahoa Parish as a result of the investigation are:

1. Byron Seymore (BM, 11-22-1974) - Charged with three counts of Possession with the intent to distribute CDS I, four counts of Possession with the intent to distribute CDS II, Manufacturing of CDS I, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of a controlled dangerous substance while in Possession of a firearm, and Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
2. Dourphas Beale (BM, 8-14-1986) - Charged with three counts of Possession with the intent to distribute CDS I, four counts of Possession with the intent to distribute CDS II, Manufacturing of CDS I, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of a controlled dangerous substance while in Possession of a firearm, Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and obstruction of justice.
3. Chatisha Tillis (BF, 10-06-2002) was found to have outstanding warrants and failed to appear for court charges for Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Possession of Alcoholic Beverages in Motor Vehicles, Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled, Violation of Protective Orders, Simple Battery, and Criminal Damage to Property under $1,000.

Criminal charges for Seymour are pending in St. Tammany Parish.

***Defendants are assumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law***

WPSS Hiring: Food Service Worker (FHS) and Custodian (PHS)

Obituary

Billy J Blackwell, III

November 16, 1938 - March 24, 2024

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   A 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Windy, with a southeast wind 20 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph.

Tonight   A 90% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Low around 60. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 25 mph decreasing to 5 to 15 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.

Tuesday   A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7am. Mostly cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 80. West wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday Night   Clear, with a low around 47. North wind around 5 mph.

Wednesday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 71. North wind around 10 mph.

Wednesday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 44. North wind around 10 mph.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Partly sunny, with a high near 71. East wind 5 to 15 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

Tonight   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. Southeast wind around 15 mph.

Monday   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 77. Windy, with a southeast wind 20 to 30 mph.

Monday Night   A 100 percent chance showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Low around 60. Windy, with a south wind 20 to 30 mph becoming southwest 10 to 20 mph after midnight. 

Tuesday   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 79. West wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 47. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Collin Sims Wins District Attorney Race in 22nd JDC

Unofficial results reported by the Louisiana Secretary of State indicate Collin Sims has, with 67% of the vote, won the race for District Attorney, 22nd JDC.

In Washington Parish, with all 41 precincts reporting, Sims received 52% of the vote. Unofficial Voter Turnout: 20.2%. Total votes cast in Washington Parish was 5,701.

In St. Tammany Parish, with all 170 precincts reporting, Sims received 69% of the vote. Unofficial Voter Turnout: 22.5%. Total votes cast in St. Tammany Parish was 42,360.

For more details on all races, go  to https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/graphical

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Mostly cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 72. Breezy, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 44. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday   Partly sunny, with a high near 72. East wind 5 to 15 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.

Sunday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. Southeast wind around 15 mph.

Monday   A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Windy, with a southeast wind 15 to 20 mph increasing to 25 to 30 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph. 

Monday Night   A 90% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Low around 61. Breezy, with a southeast wind 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. 

Obituary

Jacob Anthony Brumfield

October 23, 1979 ~ March 9, 2024 

Letter to the Editor - Re: Revival of Bogalusa and Washington Parish

The following was submitted by Ben E. Clayton as a Letter to the Editor. 

Pastor Clayton had previously spoken on Unity at the March 19, 2024 meeting of the 

Bogalusa City Council (video presented below).

______________________________________________________

Wikipedia discloses the following:

“Incorporated in 1914, Bogalusa is one of the youngest towns in Louisiana. It was founded by Frank Henry Goodyear and Charles Waterhouse Goodyear, lumber barons of Buffalo, New York. In the early 1900s, the brothers bought hundreds of thousand of acres of virgin Longleaf pine forests in southeastern Louisiana and southwestern Mississippi for the timber and [to] further their strategy to build railroad spurs to bring the wood to market. In 1902, they chartered the Great Southern Lumber Company and bult the first sawmill in what became Bogalusa, a company town built to support the mill. The sawmill was the largest in the world at the time. The Goodyear interests built the city of Bogalusa to house workers and supervisors, and associated infrastructure. They also bult the Great Northern New Orleans Railroad to New Orleans to transport their lumber and products to market.”

“The city, designed by architect Rathbone DeBuys of New Orleans and built from the ground up in less than a year, had several hotels, schools, a hospital, a YMCA and YWCA, churches of all faiths, and houses for the mill workers…It was called the “Magic City” in praise of its rapid construction. The manager of Great Southern Lumber Company was William H. Sullivan. As sawmill manager, he acted as town boss when the city was built. After Bogalusa was incorporated as a city on July 4, 1914, Sullivan was elected as mayor by white voters (blacks had been disenfranchised), and repeatedly re-elected, serving until his death on June 26, 1929.”

The online Wikipedia article goes on to recount a history of racial tension and violence in the town, including acts of violence and murder. The article also discusses the fact of the decline of Bogalusa. In the 1960s, the city had more than 21,000 residents. The 2010 census showed a population of 12,232 and the 2020 census saw that number decline to 10,659.

Bogalusa has been bleeding population, talent and vitality for some time now. Some of the successful business people and professionals who were born in Bogalusa but left to become residents of St. Tammany Parish and elsewhere include attorneys, judges and even a current Louisiana Supreme Court justice, to name a few. Bogalusa sorely misses the skills, talents and vision of these departed native sons and daughters. Imagine how they could have contributed to the strength, vitality and prosperity of Bogalusa had they remained here!

The present state of Bogalusa is well-known: drug addicted, crime ridden, potholed and in despair. How long will we sit by passively, watching as Bogalusa bleeds to death?

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Showers and thunderstorms before 3pm, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4pm. High near 71. East wind 5 to 10 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Tonight   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Saturday   Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Saturday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 45. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday   Partly sunny, with a high near 72. East wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

Sunday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Southeast wind 10 to 15 mph.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 20-21, 2024

Danny Branch (age 42 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $4100.00 bond.

Brandon Young (age 41 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Use Turn Signal 100 ft prior to turn, No License Plate, Driving Under Suspension, No Proof of Insurance, Resisting Arrest by Flight, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Failure to Appear, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. Released on $33000.00 bond.

Shauntell Schenk (age 43 with Lacombe, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Randi Bailey (age 23 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $11000.00.

Jeremy Kirkling (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear, Ran Stop Sign, No Proof of Insurance, No Drivers License, and Registration/No Proof/Must Carry by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $14731.00.

Danny Matherne (age 31 with Bush, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Renoldo Jones (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

See Some Pups at Tractor Supply Saturday

The folks at the Washington Parish Animal Shelter says, "Come see our adoptable dogs this Saturday at Franklinton Tractor Supply! All dogs have free adoptions due to being waived! This means you could go home with you new best friend! So stop by to see us and our adorable pups!

Washington Parish Library Gets Digital Upgrade, Tiered Cards for Children Give Parents More Control

Last week, the Washington Parish Library converted their online catalog to a new and exciting platform.  BookSystems offers library users the option to receive email and text notification about their items—and allows them to rate the items they’ve read in the catalog!  It also has an interface just for kids!  In order to take advantage of this, library users must update their contact information to include an email and/or a cell phone number on their account.  Most importantly, BookSystems is less expensive and has more bells and whistles that library users have requested.  There will even be an app in the very near future!

Another important reason WPL has converted systems involves La Act 436 (2023 reg), which requires all public libraries in the state to offer a tiered library card system for children.  Parents can choose the level of access their child has to the library when they fill out a library card application.  There are three options to begin with:

1. Restricted Juvenile only allows the child to check out items from the Juvenile Collection.
2. Semi-Restricted Juvenile allows the child to check out items from both the Juvenile and the YA Collections.
3. Unrestricted Juvenile allows the child to have full access to all of the books in the library, including the Adult Collection.

In addition to these tiers, parents may also decide whether or not their child can access our eBook/eAudiobook platform, CloudLibrary.  Parents already had the option to allow their children to use the library computers to access the internet or to restrict their children from that access.  At any time, parents may come in and fill out another form if they wish to change the tier they originally chose for their children.  This new system gives parents even more control over how their children use the Washington Parish Library.

Act 436 comes into effect on June 1, 2024, so all Juvenile cards have been labeled as restricted until a parent comes in and fills out the form with the level of access appropriate for their child.  We would love to see parents come in before the summer to get their children’s library accounts squared away.  Stop by your favorite branch and update your (and your child’s) information today!

Obituary

Lisa Kay Rushing

November 19, 1954 - March 16, 2024

Covington Man Gets 35 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing Two Young Girls

District Attorney Collin Sims (Interim) reports that on March 20, 2024, 43-year-old Tristian Foster of Covington, pled guilty to sexual battery involving a victim under 13, aggravated crime against nature with a victim under 13 and indecent behavior with juveniles with a victim under 13. He was sentenced by District Judge Vincent Lobello to 35 years in prison without the possibility of parole. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Tiffany Dover and Amanda Gritten.

In April of 2022, a mental health professional at Pine View Middle School called the Louisiana Department of Child and Family Services, after a student disclosed an incident of sexual abuse. The then-11-year-old student, reported to a teacher that she had been sexually assaulted by the father of a friend during a sleep over. DCFS in turn notified the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office which then dispatched Detective Katie Robbins to the school.

After gathering additional information, Det. Robbins scheduled a forensic interview of the child at the Children’s Advocacy Center Hope House. During the resulting interview the victim disclosed she had been inappropriately touched under the shirt by the defendant while at a sleepover. She said that he had unclasped her bra and told her to remove her clothes stating, “you better be naked when I return.” She also said the defendant tickled her and touched her inappropriately. She said she confided in a friend who revealed to her that she too had been sexually abused by the defendant.

The second victim was then interviewed at the Hope House and medically evaluated at the Audrey Hepburn Care Center affiliated with Children’s Hospital. She disclosed that the defendant had sex with her approximately a year prior, when she was eight, she said that it hurt, she could barely breathe and “he wouldn’t accept no as an answer.”

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives interviewed the defendant. During questioning, he didn’t outright dispute the allegations made against him. He claimed he often consumed alcohol to excess and he didn’t “recall” or “remember” sexually abusing either girl.

MYTH: “Marijuana is safe for teens.”

MYTH “SHATTERED”: “There is NO safe amount of marijuana in the developing teen brain

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 19-20, 2024

Darion Clark (age 30 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted Second
Degree Murder and Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Darryl Powell (age 51 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language and Protective Order Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Shedrick Young (age 48 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   A 20 percent chance of showers after 2pm. Increasing clouds, with a high near 70. Light and variable wind becoming southeast 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Tonight   A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53. East wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Friday   Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 70. East wind 5 to 15 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Friday Night   Showers and thunderstorms likely before 10pm, then a slight chance of showers between 10pm and 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Saturday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a north wind around 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Saturday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 45. Northeast wind 10 to 15 mph.

Obituary

Capt. Don Courtney Robertson

January 10, 1942 - March 15, 2024

Obituary

Donna Roberts Penton

September 24, 1943 - March 19, 2024

Bogalusa City Council Meeting of March 19, 2024

In case you missed the livestream of the Bogalusa City Council meeting of March 19, 2024, here it is

Brotherly Disagreement Boils Over: Attempted Murder Charges Filed After Violent Family Altercation

Yesterday (Tuesday, March 19, 2024) at approximately 5:30 PM,  the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office received a distress call regarding a disturbance on Highway 438 in Franklinton. Deputy Dillon Kent was dispatched to the scene. 

Upon arrival, Deputy Kent encountered a chaotic scene, with reports indicating that, following a heated argument, 30 year-old Derion Clark had cut his brother with an unidentified object, resulting in a significant laceration to the victim’s neck. The victim was swiftly attended to by emergency medical services and transported to Lakeview Regional Medical Center for evaluation due to the severity of his injuries.

Derion Clark was also alleged to have assaulted his mother during the altercation.

Derion Clark was booked into the Washington Parish Jail on the charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder and Domestic Abuse Battery. No bond has been set as of this report.

The Washington Parish Sheriff's Office would like to reassure the community that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. This incident highlights the importance of prompt and decisive action in response to instances of domestic disturbance and violence.

Obituary

Linsy Ray Bell

August 11, 1944 - December 26, 2023

Today's Message from ADAPT

Learn more and "Like" ADAPT's Facebook page and visit their website. 

ADAPT, INC. is a nonprofit organization whose goals are 

1. To prevent child abuse and neglect before it happens by delivering research based prevention programs.
2. To provide child abuse prevention and direct services to victims which includes a variety of programs and services.
3. To provide sexual assault prevention and direct services to assault victims which includes: operating a 24/7 crisis hotline; providing hospital and law enforcement victim advocates 24/7; providing sexual assault information, prevention education, professional training, awareness campaigns, inter-agency collaboration, and victim support and counseling.
4. To provide prevention and educational services targeting substance abuse. 

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

For Beautiful Blooms, Consider More Manageable Alternatives to Commonly Grown Wisterias

You may have noticed wisteria blooming recently in yards and along roadsides. I find wisteria’s flowers lovely, but Chinese wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) and Japanese wisteria (W. floribunda) are quite aggressive and can overtake trees if not managed. They’re considered invasive by many.

If you choose to grow one of these, make sure you don’t let it spread into unmanaged areas. One option is to plant the vine by itself, in the middle of a mowed area. One can grow Chinese or Japanese wisteria on a trellis, but ensure that the trellis is very strong. Wooden structures may eventually collapse under wisteria’s weight.

It can be difficult to distinguish between Chinese and Japanese wisteria, though there are differences. Leaves of Japanese wisteria emerge earlier than those of Chinese wisteria. Chinese wisteria generally starts blooming before it leafs out. Flower clusters (racemes) of Japanese wisteria tend to be about 8 to 20 inches long, compared with 6 to 12 inches for Chinese wisteria. Japanese wisteria doesn’t generally have as many flowers at one time as Chinese wisteria does but flowers over a longer period. Chinese wisteria vines climb by twining counterclockwise, and Japanese wisteria twines in a clockwise direction.

While Chinese and Japanese wisterias are more common in landscapes, American wisteria (W. frutescens) is a non-invasive alternative that’s native to Louisiana and most of the eastern US. In the wild, it tends to grow on moist or wet sites such as streambanks. Flowering begins later in the spring than on Chinese and Japanese wisterias and continues during the summer. (Unlike the other two, American wisteria flowers primarily on new growth.) Flower clusters reach 4 to 6 inches long and support bees and butterflies. Adequate sun exposure is needed for good flower production. Cultivars include ‘Amethyst Falls’, which has lavender-purple flowers, and the white-flowered ‘Nivea’. American wisteria is considered hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 9, so it’s suitable, temperature-wise, for most of Louisiana.

Another alternative to the more invasive wisterias is evergreen wisteria (Wisteriopsis reticulata; AKA Millettia reticulata or Callerya reticulata). This vine is native to Asia but isn’t as aggressive its Chinese and Japanese wisteria cousins. An additional feature is that it’s partially or fully evergreen in Zones 9 and 10. It’s cold hardy enough for Zone 8, too, but likely to lose its leaves in the winter there. Evergreen wisteria blooms in summer and fall, producing purple racemes that reach 6 to 10 inches long.

Evergreen wisteria isn’t considered a true wisteria but is a cousin within the bean or pea family (Leguminosae). Next week, I’ll discuss some other relatives, the indigos and wild or false indigos.

Let me know if you have questions.

Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages

Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page. 

Today   Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the morning.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 45. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Thursday   A 20 percent chance of showers after 1pm. Increasing clouds, with a high near 70. East wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.

Thursday Night   Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53. Southeast wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 67. East wind 5 to 10 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 52. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 18, 2024

Jason Youngblood (age 44 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5075.00.

Carnell Lewis (age 37 with Mt. Hermon, La address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Failure to Appear. Bond set at $5750.00.

Michael Rogers (age 22 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs. Bond set at $5000.00.

Shakira Picheco (age 21 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Malfeasance in Office by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

William Ashwell (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary and Driving Under Suspension by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $6000.00.

Johnny Tarver (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Forgery (7 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $15000.00.

Joey Painter (age 39 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.

Booker Adams (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $9155.00.

Marris Jefferson (age 43 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***