Ruby Martin
October 25, 1958 - August 18, 2025
August 20, 2025
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Native Grapes: Muscadines and More
We regularly see muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia) vines in Louisiana. Their commonness and vigorous growth (often far up into trees) are signs of how well adapted they are to most parts of our state. I encourage people who are interested in growing fruit that doesn’t require a lot of work to manage diseases and insects to grow muscadines, though a sturdy trellis and attention to training and pruning are needed. Many improved varieties are available.
We occasionally see fruit on wild muscadine vines in the late summer, but many wild vines only have male flowers and so don’t produce berries. Cultivated varieties have either “perfect” flowers (ones with female and male parts) or female flowers. In the latter case, the vine needs a self-fertile, perfect-flowered vine or a wild male vine nearby to pollinize it.
Muscadines aren’t the only grapes that we see growing in the wild. Other grapes native to Louisiana include the summer grape (V. aestivalis), graybark or winter sweet grape (V. cinerea), frost or fox grape (V. vulpina), and riverbank or frost grape (V. riparia). (As usual, common names can be confusing, with the same name sometimes applied to different species.) These other grapes are more closely related to each other than they are to muscadines.
Smooth, heart-shaped leaves with teeth of similar sizes along the edges often suggest to us that a grape vine is a muscadine. However, some other species have leaves that look similar. Grapes hanging in bunches rather than loose clusters are a clue that a vine isn’t a muscadine, but vines often lack fruit.
An easy and reliable way to differentiate between muscadines and native bunch grapes is by the vine’s tendrils. The tendril is what wraps around limbs and trellis wires and allows grapes to climb. Most grape species have forked tendrils, but muscadine vines’ tendrils are unbranched.
All grapes (Vitis species) are technically edible, though you might not enjoy eating some of them. Besides the fruit, young grape leaves can be used to make dishes like the dolmas of Mediterranean cuisine.
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).
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 19, 2025
Coty Roddy (age 32 with Picayune, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.
Donald Vice (age 30 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner, Domestic Abuse Battery, Resisting an Officer (2 counts), Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence, and Probation and Parole Hold by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
David Wells (age 46 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Probation and Parole Hold by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Malcolm Ratcliff (age 34 with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Malcolm Beal (age 34 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Battery/ER Personnel or Healthcare Professional/Agg Assault by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Matthew Williams (age 38 with Crossroads, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Anna Seals (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (4 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Brandon Young (age 42 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Contempt of Court, and Failure to Appear. 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 and thunderstorms after 2pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 107. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Thursday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Friday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 10am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.
Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. Hurricane Erin is no threat to our “neck of the woods” but will continue to threaten the east coasts of the U.S. through Saturday. Erin is currently located about 400 miles SSE of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina moving NNW at 13 MPH with 100 MPH maximum sustained winds. On the forecast track, the center of Erin will move over the western Atlantic between the U.S. east coast and Bermuda today through early Friday, and then pass south of Atlantic Canada Friday and Saturday.
Disturbance 2. Near the Leeward Islands in the Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is located over the central tropical Atlantic. Environmental conditions appear conducive for gradual development of this system, and a tropical depression could form late this week or over the weekend while it moves near or to the north of the northern Leeward Islands. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...60 percent.
Disturbance 3. Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL99): A tropical wave is located to the southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands. Environmental conditions appear marginally favorable for additional development over the next day or so while the system moves westward at around 15 mph and a short-lived tropical depression could form. By the end of the week, environmental conditions are expected to become unfavorable for further development. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium..40 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 percent.
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August 19, 2025
Bogalusa City Council Meeting - August 19, 2025
August 20, 2025: Our livestream of the Bogalusa City Council meeting on August 19, 2025 was terrible, audio and video. We apologize. We believe it was caused by poor wi-fi signal. A backup was made on a micro SD and can be viewed below.
The Bogalusa City Council will meet on August 19, 2025 beginning at 5:30 PM. The meeting will be livestreamed here and at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv The Agenda includes
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS:
- A RESOLUTION of the City of Bogalusa, Louisiana authorizing the submission of a Grant Application to the Delta Regional Authority 2025 Community Infrastructure Fund Program and to the Louisiana Infrastructure Technical Assistance Corporation and authorizing a Representative in all matters pertaining to the City’s participation in the program.
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES:
- AN ORDINANCE to introduce the City of Bogalusa Operating Budget and Capital Budget for the Fiscal Year beginning January 1, 2025.
- AN ORDINANCE authorizing the Fiscal Administrator to enter into an Airport Management Agreement between the City of Bogalusa and Lightening Aviation, LLC.
- AN ORDINANCE to amend Ordinance #2301 for the City of Bogalusa to adopt a policy addressing the City of Bogalusa Credit Card Policy.
- AN ORDINANCE for the City of Bogalusa to adopt a policy addressing the recoupment of employee overpayment.
PUBLIC HEARINGS & ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES:
- AN ORDINANCE introducing a purposed PEC change order Project 11723.10 pertaining to bid received on July 01, 2025. $16,720 (maximum to exceed).
Administrative Remarks
Council Remarks
Announcements: Next Council Meeting will be held on September 2, 2025
Meeting Adjourned
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Leslie Pittman at 985-732-6211 ext. 249 describing the assistance that is necessary.
As required by LA.R.S. 42:14, the City Council will allow a public comment period at any point in the meeting prior to action on an agenda item upon which a vote is to be taken.
Do You Know Me? Injured Man Sought in Loranger Area
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) is asking for the public’s assistance with identifying a man seen on a property camera in the Loranger area over the weekend with a potential serious injury.
Around 1:30 p.m. on Sunday (August 17, 2025), the owner of a property in the 53000 block of Highway 445, near the intersection of Highway 40, spotted an older, white male on his surveillance cameras walking down a gravel road with a large blood stain on his right side. At this time, we have been unable to determine the man’s identity, why he was in the area, or what direction he went from there. There were no crimes or crashes reported in that area on Sunday, and there are no missing person reports fitting his description at this time.
The TPSO is hoping someone in the community can help us identify the man in hopes of locating him to conduct a wellness check and getting him medical care, if needed.
Sheriff Gerald Sticker asks anyone with information regarding this unidentified man to contact our Dispatch Center at 985-747-9696 OR 985-748-8147 (Option 1).
Washington & St. Tammany Parishes - The Model for the New Special Victims Unit Task Force
Local and state law enforcement leaders, state leaders and representatives from the Child Advocacy Center and the District Attorney’s Office met this morning (August 29, 2025) on the steps on the Hope House to announce a new collaborative partnership aimed at making our community a safer place for our children to live and grow.
The new 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭 𝐓𝐚𝐬𝐤 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞 will serve as a regional, multi-agency initiative dedicated to identifying, investigating and prosecuting crimes against children. The task force was formed in direct response to the overwhelming number of cyber tips received by the Attorney General’s Office from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐢𝐳 𝐌𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥 noted that thanks to the increased use of the internet there has been a 1200 percent increase in tips coming in through the state tip line in the last 10 years.
“𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘺 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘪𝘱𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘴,” 𝐌𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥 said. “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 (𝘪𝘯 𝘚𝘵. 𝘛𝘢𝘮𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘞𝘢𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘵𝘰𝘯 𝘗𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘴) 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘥𝘦𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦.”
“𝘓𝘰𝘶𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘢’𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯, 𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 22𝘯𝘥 𝘑𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘋𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘵’𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯, 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦𝘳,” 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐌𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥, executive director of the Children’s Advocacy Center, stated in response to the formation of this new Task Force.
The CAC, which operates Hope House, has provided services to 364 children since the beginning of this year. Each child who comes through their doors places a button in a jar that sits on a bookshelf inside Hope House. All of these children experienced a criminal investigation in conjunction with a crime committed against them. Mitchell said this Task Force is a preventative measure that will hopefully reduce that number, by making an arrest before a local child is physically harmed or abused.
“𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩,” 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟 𝐑𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐲 𝐒𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐡 said. “𝙄𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙢 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙣. 𝙒𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣, 𝙬𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙪𝙩𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙚𝙭𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩!”
Person Sought in Mandeville Counterfeit Currency Investigation
The Mandeville Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying the subject in the attached image.
This individual is a person of interest in an investigation involving the use of counterfeit currency at a business in the 3800 block of Highway 22 in Mandeville.
Anyone with information about his identity is asked to contact the Mandeville Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 985-624-3119.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 18, 2025
Michael Wise (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft of a Motor Vehicle 1000-5000 by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Markie Bright (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft of a Motor Vehicle 1000-5000 by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Leroy Wells (age 49 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Failure to Appear, and Sexual Battery/Victim Under 13 Years Old by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Malarie Hamilton (age 37 with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery 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 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 4pm and 5pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 107. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 9pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 10pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Thursday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind.
Thursday Night A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am, then a slight chance of showers between 1am and 4am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. Hurricane Erin is expected to become even larger while moving over the western Atlantic and along the U.S. east coast beaches. Erin is currently located about 665 miles SW of Bermuda moving NW at 7 MPH with maximum sustained winds of 110 MPH. A turn toward the north-northwest with an increase in forward speed is expected today, followed by a northward motion on Wednesday and then a northeastward motion on Thursday. On the forecast track, the center of Erin will pass to the east of the Bahamas today and tonight, and then move over the western Atlantic between the U.S. east coast and Bermuda on Wednesday and Thursday.
Disturbance 2. Near the Leeward Islands in the Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is located over the central tropical Atlantic. Environmental conditions appear conducive for gradual development of this system, and a tropical depression could form toward the end of the week or this weekend. This system should move westward to west-northwestward at about 20 mph and approach the vicinity of the Leeward Islands on Friday. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...60 percent.
Disturbance 3. Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL99): A tropical wave is located a couple of hundred miles to the southeast of the Cabo Verde Islands. Environmental conditions appear generally favorable for additional development over the next couple of days as the system moves westward at around 15 mph. Towards the end of this week, this system could encounter a less favorable environment, limiting its development chances after that time. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.
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August 18, 2025
AG Murrill's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit Arrests Slidell Woman for Cruel Attack on an Individual with a Disability Under her Care
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit arrested 77 year-old Evangelina Ussin of Slidell for Cruelty to Persons with Infirmities on August 15, 2025.
After receiving a complaint from the Louisiana Department of Health, Evangelina Ussin of Liberty Drive in Slidell, was charged with the intentional mistreatment of an infirmed person that was under Ussin’s care, both as the victim’s direct service worker, and through her company, My Purpose Community Service, LLC.
Ussin was observed on video repeatedly striking the victim in the head and back - using her hand, foot, and a fence gate. The victim is a non-verbal intellectually disabled recipient of Louisiana Medicaid.
My Purpose Community Services is a Home and Community Based Service (HCBS) provider who provides direct care service workers to Medicaid Recipients. HCBS are support services that are designed to help individuals with disabilities, chronic, or those needing long-term care to live in their own homes or community settings.
According to the affidavit, special agents reviewed videos showing Ussin telling the victim to get up several times while they were crying, then proceeded to hit them with an open hand numerous times on the back of their head while telling them to get up. Ussin then grabs the corner of the metal gate and struck the victim repeatedly with the swinging gate, striking their back several times, then kicking and kneeing them numerous times while yelling at the victim.
The investigation is ongoing.
No bond has been set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Gardening and Lawn Care Classes in Washington Parish
Join the LSU AgCenter for a series of five classes designed to help you cultivate a thriving garden and healthy lawn.
Class schedule:
- September 9 - Vegetables and Herbs
- September 16 – Fruits
- September 23 – Ornamental Landscape Plants
- September 30 – Lawns
- October 7 – Soil, Fertilizer, and Composting
Classes will take place from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at the Lee Memorial Forest Main Lodge (21139 Lee Memorial Drive, Franklinton; across Dollar Road from Our Veterans Memorial Park and the Washington Parish Communications building).
Classes are free to attend, but pre-registration is requested. To register or learn more, please contact Horticulture Agent Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson (mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850). For accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact Mary Helen at least one week before the class of interest. The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.
This Week in Louisiana Agriculture
From Gator Eggs to Irish Green Fields in this episode of TWILA! This week, we start in the Louisiana marsh with LSU’s interim president learning the hands-on process of collecting alligator eggs—a vital part of conservation and a $100 million industry. Then we head to Ireland with Louisiana 4-H to explore dairy farms, plant fresh produce, and see how farm-to-table works across the Atlantic. We hop back across the pond to follow Louisiana’s jasmine rice from research to harvest to a delicious crawfish sushi stack in Feasting on Agriculture.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 16-17, 2025
Charles Martin (age 32 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Assault/Domestic
Violence, Resisting an Officer, and Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Info by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.
Michael Blackburn (age 34 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.
John Lamparski (age 59 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd + Offense) and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Laura Sampson (age 58 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) and Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
🚨 Community Notice: Help Us Address the Feline Overpopulation Crisis in Franklinton 🚨
The Washington Parish Animal Shelter, in collaboration with the Washington Humane Society and BISSELL Pet Foundation, will be in Franklinton from August 18–22 to assist with the ongoing cat overpopulation crisis.
There is a large number of free-roaming cats concentrated in several areas, including:
- 🐾 Winn-Dixie parking lot
- 🐾 Main’s Market parking lot
- 🐾 Franklinton Library
- 🐾 Franklinton Junior High
To ensure the success of this effort, we are asking residents and business owners in these areas NOT to feed the cats during this time. Cats will be humanely trapped, then spayed or neutered, fed, and receive medical care during their clinic date, and returned to help manage the population responsibly.
Your cooperation is essential to making this initiative successful and improving the wellbeing of our community's animals.
For more information, call (985) 205-2023 and/or email washingtonparishanimalshelter@gmail.com
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Heat index values as high as 107. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 9pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Tuesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly 1am. Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. Hurricane Erin is a large and powerful Category 4 hurricane located about 115 miles NNE of Grand Turk Island and just east of the southeast Bahamas moving NW at 13 MPH with 130 MPH maximum sustained winds. A gradual turn to the north is expected later today and on Tuesday. On the forecast track, the core of Erin is expected to pass to the east of the southeastern Bahamas today and move between Bermuda and the east coast of the United States by the middle of the week. Erin will remain a dangerous major hurricane through the middle of this week.
Disturbance 2. Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is located over the eastern tropical Atlantic. Environmental conditions appear conducive for gradual development of this system, and a tropical depression could form during the latter part of the week. This system should move westward to west-northwestward at about 20 mph across the central tropical Atlantic and approach the vicinity of the Leeward Islands toward the end of the week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...50 percent.
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August 17, 2025
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 after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Monday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Tuesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. Northwestern Atlantic: A broad area of low pressure is located a couple hundred miles off the coast of North Carolina. Development, if any, of this system should be slow to occur during the next day or so while it drifts generally eastward. The opportunity for development should end on Monday when environmental upper-level wind conditions are expected to become unfavorable. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.
Disturbance 2. Hurricane Erin is currently located about 170 miles NNW of San Juan, Puerto Rico moving WNW at 14 MPH with 125 MPH maximum sustained winds. This motion with a decrease in forward speed is expected today, followed by a gradual turn to the north on Monday and Tuesday. On the forecast track, the core of Erin is expected to pass to the east of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the southeastern Bahamas tonight and Monday.
Disturbance 3. Central Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is located near the Cabo Verde Islands. Some gradual development of this system is possible during the middle to latter portion of the week while the system moves westward to west-northwestward at 15 to 20 mph across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.
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August 16, 2025
Ponchatoula Man Arrested in Internet Sex Crimes Operation
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force has arrested 73 year-old Arthur Palmisano of Ponchatoula man in its latest operation. Palmisano has been booked on 60 counts of Pornography Involving Juveniles Under the Age of 13.
Last week, the TPSO ICAC Unit was alerted by its ICAC partners to a Child Sexual Assault Material (CSAM) image being uploaded into a popular search engine in an effort to find similar images. Detectives tracked the activity back to an address in Ponchatoula. After serving a search warrant on the home, Palmisano was confirmed to have been the source of the upload and was found to have dozens of CSAM files on his devices. He was then placed under arrest.
This activity is part of TPSO’s partnership with Attorney General Liz Murrill’s Office and their ICAC Task Force which includes a collaboration with numerous local law enforcement agencies.
The TPSO would like to thank the Hammond and Covington Police Departments for assisting with this case.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 15, 2025
Pierre Whittine (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Pay Fine (3
counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $550.00 bond.
Hannah Spears (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court and on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.
Chasity Branch (age 28 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.
Roderick Sartin (age 51 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Mandatory Licensure Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.
***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 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 106. North wind around 5 mph.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Monday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Monday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. Northwestern Atlantic: A broad and weak area of low pressure is located off the coast of North Carolina. Some slight development of this system is possible over the next day or two while it moves little over the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. By Monday, environmental conditions are expected to become unfavorable for further development. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.
Disturbance 2. Hurricane Erin is a Category 4 and continues to rapidly intensify. The eye has wobbled westward during the past few hours. Erin is currently located about 120 miles NE of Anguilla moving WNW at 20 MPH with 145 MPH maximum sustained winds. A turn toward the north is expected to occur early next week. On the forecast track, the center of Erin is expected to move just north of the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico over the weekend.
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August 15, 2025
Missing Person Investigation in Hammond Leads to Arrests for Alcohol Sales to Underage Persons at The Brown Door Bar
On the morning of August 8, 2025, the Hammond Police Department began investigating a potential missing person incident, after clothing and personal effects were located on a sidewalk along East Charles Street and North Holly Street. The items belonged to Richard Clementi, 18 years old of Slidell. Clementi was quickly located asleep in the sanctuary of the First Christian Church, located on East Charles Street.
Clementi stated to HPD detectives that he had gone out with friends to The Brown Door Bar, located at 124 North Cate Street, the previous night and that he had been able to purchase alcohol directly from bar staff. Detectives followed up on Clementi’s statement and executed a search warrant at The Brown Door, where they located video footage from the previous night. While reviewing the video footage, detectives observed a large number of sales of alcohol to persons apparently under 21 years of age throughout the night. Further investigation confirmed a total of 116 sales of alcoholic beverages to persons under 21 years of age within a three-hour time span. Detectives also observed bar staff failing to notify management or security while persons under 21 years of age consumed alcoholic beverages directly in front of them.
As a result of the investigation, the following arrests were made:
- Bartender Sydney Elise Mitchell, 20 years old of Gulfport, Mississippi, was arrested and charged with 115 counts of LRS 14:93.11 – Unlawful sales to persons under twenty-one, as well as 1 count of LRS 14:105 – Letting a disorderly place.
- Bartender Michael Samuel Cuccia, 22 years old of Mandeville, was arrested and charged with 1 count of LRS 14:93.11 – Unlawful sales to persons under twenty-one, as well as 1 count of LA RS 14:105 – Letting a disorderly place.
- Tristan Michael Stravinsky, 21 years old of Slidell, was arrested for 10 counts of LRS 14:93.13 – Unlawful purchase of alcoholic beverages for persons under 21; video footage showed Stravinsky purchasing alcoholic beverages for others under the age of 21.
Owner of The Brown Door, Patrick Lynn Broussard, 57 years old of Port Allen, was issued a misdemeanor summons for LRS 14:105 – Letting a disorderly place.
Richard Kale Clementi, 18 years old of Slidell, was issued a misdemeanor summons for LRS 14:93.12 – Unlawful purchase and public possession of alcoholic beverages for persons under 21.
HPD additionally notified the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) of this investigation; additional administrative action is possible.
The Hammond Police Department reminds everyone that the minimum legal age to purchase and responsibly consume alcohol is 21 years old. In the coming weeks and months, HPD will have additional officers assigned downtown and will be taking aggressive enforcement actions against bars and other establishments that sell alcohol to persons under 21 years of age, as well as against patrons who consume alcohol under the age of 21.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 14, 2025
Erick Davis (age 48 with Baton Rouge, La. address) was booked on the charges of Speeding 11-20 Over
Limit and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.
Tosha Watkins (age 39 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Adam Sterling (age 40 with Magnolia, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
$599,938 Grant Awarded for Bogue Chitto Boulder Playground
The National Park Service has announced a Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant award of $599,938 to the Louisiana State Parks and Recreation Commission. The recipient, Louisiana State Parks and Recreation Commission, will improve Bogue Chitto Boulder Playground. This project will construct an outdoor bouldering playground, parking, pavilion, and bouldering training center, install; fall-safe support surfacing, benches, and signage.
The Total Project Cost is $1,199,876 and has an estimated completion date of September 30, 2028.
The LWCF State and Local Assistance Program provides matching grants for state, tribe, and local park projects outside national park boundaries.
In announcing the Award, Washington Parish Government noted, “Exciting things are happening at our Bogue Chitto State Park! Our park is growing and improving every day - and we couldn't do it without the support of our elected officials. Thank you for your continued commitment to enhancing the Bogue Chitto State Park for our residents and visitors.”
For the full announcement, click Read More below.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Saturday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Heat index values as high as 109. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 10pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph.
Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. Southwestern Gulf (AL98): A disturbance is located about 75 miles off the coast of northeastern Mexico or southern Texas coastline. The system could become a short-lived tropical depression before it moves inland this afternoon or evening. interests along portions of northeastern Mexico and southern Texas should monitor the progress of this system. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...50 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...50 percent.
Disturbance 2. Tropical Storm Erin is becoming better organized and expected to become a hurricane later today and it could become a major hurricane by this weekend.. Erin is currently located about 520 miles east of the Northern Leeward Islands moving WNW at 17 MPH with 70 MPH maximum sustained winds. This motion is expected to continue into the weekend. On the forecast track, the center of Erin is likely to move near or just north of the northern Leeward Islands over the weekend.
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August 14, 2025
Louisiana AG Murrill Files Child Protection Lawsuit Against Roblox
Today (August 14, 2025), Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill announced legal action against Roblox, the #1 gaming site for children and teens. The lawsuit, brought in the 21th Judicial District of Louisiana, shows that through its online gaming service, Roblox:
- Has and continues to facilitate the distribution of child sexual abuse material and the sexual exploitation of Louisiana’s children.
- Knowingly and intentionally fails to implement basic safety controls to protect child users from predators.
- Knowingly and intentionally fails to provide notice to parents and child users of its dangers.
“Due to Roblox’s lack of safety protocols, it endangers the safety of the children of Louisiana. Roblox is overrun with harmful content and child predators because it prioritizes user growth, revenue, and profits over child safety. Every parent should be aware of the clear and present danger poised to their children by Roblox so they can prevent the unthinkable from ever happening in their own home,” said Attorney General Liz Murrill.
Roblox is an interactive online gaming platform launched in 2006 that facilitates “experiences” for users. It allows and encourages users to communicate with each other in real time.
There are nearly 82 million daily active users and more than 6.4 million experiences within the system.
The company reports:
- 20% of users are under 9 years of age
- 20% are 9-12
- 16% are 13-16
- 44% are 17 years of age or older
Because there is no age minimum and requirement to verify age or parental permission once you sign-up, users can easily say they are younger or older than their actual age - allowing child predators to pose as children and for children to bypass any age requirement.
Once registered, users have access to millions of games such as sports, role-playing, naval, fashion, and comedy. Other games which have existed on the platform including Escape to Epstein Island, Diddy Party, and Public Bathroom Simulator Vibe are not as innocent. These games and others are often filled with sexually explicit material and simulated sexual activity such as child gang rape.
A recent report even revealed a group of 3,334 members openly traded child pornography and solicited sexual acts from minors.
Just last month in Livingston Parish, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the residence of an individual suspected of possessing child sexual abuse material. At the time of the arrest, the suspect was actively using the online platform Roblox. Notably, the individual was in possession of and had employed voice-altering technology designed to mimic the voice of a young female, allegedly for the purpose of luring and sexually exploiting minor users of the platform.
For these and other reasons, Roblox is in violation of Louisiana law. The State is seeking permanent injunctive relief and prohibiting them from:
- Engaging in any activity in violation of Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices Act:
- Representing that Roblox has adequate safety features
- Restitution to the State of Louisiana
- Attorney’s fees
- All additional civil penalties allowable under law
- All additional damages allowable under law
Shares of Roblox Corp (RBLX) have more than doubled this year and have advanced over 115% year to date.
6 Year-Old Dies in Slidell Hit and Run - Arrest Made
Cody Michael Beaudette, age 35 and of Slidell, was arrested Wednesday (August 13, 2025) evening after he fatally struck a 6-year-old child with his SUV and then fled the scene.
Shortly before 6 p.m. Wednesday, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to Northshore Lane near Slidell in reference to a child who had been struck by a vehicle. Responding deputies learned the 6-year-old boy was riding a scooter in his driveway when he was struck by an SUV, and the driver of the SUV failed to stop. The child’s mother had transported the boy to a local hospital prior to deputies arriving on scene. He died at the hospital.
The vehicle involved was identified as a 2022 Grey Chevrolet Suburban. It was located later Wednesday evening traveling on East Gause Boulevard, and STPSO patrol deputies initiated a traffic stop. The driver, who was identified as Cody Michael Beaudette, was taken into custody and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center for Vehicular Homicide, Reckless Operation, Felony Hit and Run (involving death or serious bodily injury) and Operating a Vehicle with a Suspended License.
The incident is still under investigation.
Sheriff Randy Smith wants to send his condolences to the child’s family and to remind everyone of the importance of obeying speed limits, stopping at stop signs and being extra careful when driving through neighborhoods.
“This is a horrific tragedy for our community,” Sheriff Smith said. “And it is a tragedy that could have been prevented by careful driving and the obeyance of traffic laws. Children are out and about in our neighborhoods and it is imperative that all motorists pay attention and slow down.”
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 13, 2025
Ricki Hart (age 55 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $7500.00 bond.
Christian Garbett (age 21 with Mandeville, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery (2 counts) and Criminal Damage (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $10000.00 bond.
Terry Buckhanan (age 27 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Violence Battery (2nd Offense), Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
John Green (age 24 with Kenner, La. address) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying and Discharge of Weapon, Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Aggravated Obstruction of Commerce/Roadway, Criminal Damage, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $150000.00.
Cheyenne Laborde (age 26 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Larry Page (age 44 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Protective Order Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Natalbany Man Arrested for Child Rape
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO), in collaboration with the Hammond Police Department, has arrested 42 year-old Willie Jackson, III, a Natalbany man for several instances of rape of a child relative. Jackson was taken into custody on July 29, 2025 on one count each of First Degree Rape- Victim Under 13, First Degree Rape and Molestation of a Juvenile as well as two counts of Aggravated Crimes Against Nature.
Back in November, 2024, the Hammond Police Department contacted TPSO’s Juvenile detective team regarding the investigation of a rape case involving a 12-year-old. The victim reported multiple instances of sexual abuse by Jackson dating back five years prior and occurring in at least two other states as well as in Tangipahoa Parish. Following a thorough investigation alongside our state, local and community partners like the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC), a warrant was issued for Jackson’s arrest.
Despite efforts to locate Jackson in multiple locations across the country, he remained wanted until Hammond Police learned the suspect was possibly at a home within their jurisdiction. On the morning of July 29, 2025, TPSO and Hammond Police conducted an arrest operation and Jackson was taken into custody.
The TPSO would like to thank Hammond PD for their partnership in getting overdue justice and protection for this victim and making this arrest.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. Southwestern Gulf (AL98): A broad area of low pressure is located over the Bay of Campeche and is forecast to move west-northwestward across the southwestern Gulf during the next day or two, where environmental conditions are marginally conducive for further development. The system is expected to move inland over northeastern Mexico or southern Texas by late Friday, ending its chances of tropical cyclone formation. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.
Disturbance 2. Tropical Storm Erin is forecast to become a hurricane by Friday. Erin is located about 990 miles east of the Northern Leeward Islands and moving west at 17 MPH with 50 MPH maximum sustained winds. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Interests in the northern Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico should monitor the progress of Erin.
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Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 9pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Friday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 10am. Sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Saturday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 10am. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind.
Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
August 13, 2025
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 12, 2025
Wendi Holmes (age 44 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft 1000-5000 and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.
Benny James (age 73 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.
Trenton Breland (age 40 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (3rd Offense), Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Driving With Suspended License Due to Previous DWI or Other, and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $50000.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Receives $1.7 Million in Federal Hazard Mitigation Funding
Washington Parish President Ryan Seal is pleased to announce that the parish has been awarded a total of $1.7 million in federal hazard mitigation funding. The funds will be used for critical flood mitigation efforts and to enhance emergency power capabilities at essential facilities throughout the parish.
$1.1 Million for Flood Mitigation
Of the total funding, $1.1 million has been designated for the elevation of five existing residential structures that have sustained repeated flood damage. This funding is part of the major disaster declaration for the August 2016 flood and is being provided at a 100% federal cost-share under Section 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.
“The review and approval process has been lengthy, but we are grateful these homeowners have finally been approved for the funding they need,” said President Seal. “This will help reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of flood damage and improve overall community resilience.”
The selected homes were pulled from a waiting list maintained by the Washington Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. The parish currently has 27 additional structures awaiting FEMA approval for similar mitigation assistance.
$618,849 for Emergency Power Infrastructure
The remaining $618,849 has been allocated for the acquisition of trailer-mounted generators and the installation of manual transfer switches at critical facilities. This grant was awarded through the major disaster declaration for Hurricane Ida and is funded at a 90% federal cost-share under Section 324 of the Stafford Act.
“The loss of electricity during hurricanes and severe storms can significantly hinder our ability to provide life safety and emergency response,” said President Seal. “This investment ensures that essential services will continue during power outages, preserving the safety and well-being of our community.”
With this funding, Washington Parish is taking important steps to reduce future disaster risks and improve the parish’s ability to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Thursday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 10am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Friday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph.
Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. Southwestern Gulf: A tropical wave near the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula is forecast to move west-northwestward and cross the Yucatan Peninsula today with no significant increase in organization. Some development of this system is possible after it emerges across the southwestern Gulf beginning on Thursday while the system moves to the west-northwest or northwest at 10 to 15 mph. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.
Disturbance 2. Northwestern Atlantic: A non-tropical area of low pressure, located a few hundred miles southeast of Nova Scotia, Canada, is now moving northward over cooler water, and the chances of tropical or subtropical development are diminishing. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...near 0 percent.
Disturbance 3. Tropical Storm Erin continues westward and is expected to become a hurricane in a couple of days. Erin is currently located about 1400 miles east of the Northern Leeward Islands moving west at 20 MPH with maximum sustained winds of 45 MPH. A west-northwestward motion is expected beginning Thursday night and continuing into the weekend. On the forecast track, the center of Erin is likely to move near or just north of the northern Leeward Islands over the weekend. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. However, interests in the northern Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico should monitor the progress of Erin.
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August 12, 2025
Franklinton Mayor and Board of Aldermen meeting - August 12, 2025
The Franklinton Mayor and Board of Aldermen will meet on August 12, 2025 at 6:00 PM. The only items on the Agenda is a Public Hearing on an ordinance authorizing the Town to hold its property tax sale online followed by a vote to approve the ordinance.
Hammond PD Arrests & Seizures of Narcotics, Firearms, Body Armor, and Money
In the past two weeks, the Hammond Police Department Narcotics Division has conducted multiple search warrants leading to the arrests of multiple individuals and the seizure of illegal narcotics, firearms, body armor, and money.
- On July 29, 2025, a search warrant was conducted at a residence on East David Drive. During this search, Jamion Jackson, 36 years old of Hammond, and Juan Jackson, 31 years old of Hammond, were arrested. Jamion was on probation and arrested for illegal narcotics and on weapon charges. Juan held multiple felony warrants and was arrested for these warrants, as well as resisting arrest.
- On July 31, 2025, a search warrant was conducted at a residence on Kansas Street. During this search, Reginald Bernard, 49 years old of Hammond, was arrested. Bernard was on probation and arrested for illegal narcotics, on weapon charges, and for possession of body armor as a convicted felon and destruction of evidence.
- On August 5, 2025, a search warrant was conducted at a residence on Rosewood Drive. During this search, Tarell Harvey, 31 years old of Hammond, was arrested. Harvey was arrested for illegal narcotics and multiple counts of cruelty to juveniles after detectives located three children inside the residence, where the illegal narcotics were accessible by the children.
These search warrants were executed with the assistance of the HPD SWAT Team, the HPD Street Crimes Unit, the HPD K-9 Division, and the HPD Patrol Division.
No matter the quantity, illegal narcotics are a crime, and the Hammond Police Department will take necessary action to prevent illegal narcotics from being distributed in the Hammond community.
If you have information on someone possessing and/or selling illegal narcotics or firearms, please contact the Hammond Police Department Narcotics Division at 985-277-5700. If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! Tips submitted through Crime Stoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 10-11, 2025
Christopher Anthony (age 42 with Loranger, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (2 counts), Domestic Abuse Battery (2 counts), Simple Assault, Criminal Damage (2 counts), Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, False Imprisonment, and Contempt of Court by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Keith Garrett (age 71 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery and Aggravated Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Cainan Flynt (age 24 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Parole Violation and Fire-Raising in a Correctional Facility. Released on $20000.00 bond.
Arlene Nelson (age 63 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to a Juvenile(s) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Renard Drummond (age 68 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Arrion McNeal (age 21 with Harahan, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted First Degree Murder and Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Edgar Jenkins (age 54 with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to a Juvenile(s) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Korey Hampton (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Cedric Anders (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Theft Less Than 1000, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Andrew Warner (age 32 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor and Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Joey Webre (age 41 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
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