Bogalusa District A - 9th Annual "Christmas Give-a-way with Santa"

Gloria W. Kates, Bogalusa District A Councilwoman, has announced the the District's 9th Annual "Christmas Give-a-way with Santa" for children 8 and under who reside in District A;  however, if you reside outside the district, no child will be turned away. 

The event will be on Thursday, Dec 22, 2022 from 04:00- 05:30 pm at the Poplas Quarters Recreational Center at Dobbs and 1-JJ Piper (Next to Coach Mike "Michael Harrington Baseball Field). 

All may wear your Christmas attire for the Christmas Pageantry. Please bring along your personal cameras for photos. Parents please accompany your child. Happy Blessed Holidays! 

All Parish Businesses WPSO Checked Refused to Sell Alcohol to Minors

On December 13, 2022 the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted a juvenile underage drinking enforcement check of eleven Washington Parish businesses. Each of the businesses which were visited by an underage purchaser refused to sell alcohol to the minor.

Those businesses which refused to sell alcohol to the underage purchaser were:

• Town Crier, Franklinton
• Winn-Dixie, Franklinton
• Market Max, Franklinton
• Chevron on Washington Street, Franklinton
• Hackley Hill Store, Hackley
• JZ Quick Stop, Bogalusa
• Walgreens, Bogalusa
• CVS, Bogalusa
• Pumping Station, Bogalusa
• Highway 10 One Stop, Bogalusa
• Chevron on Sunset Drive, Bogalusa

“This is good news,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Louisiana law specifically requires age identification for alcohol purchasers. It is gratifying to know that our parish businesses are doing their part to keep alcohol out of the hands of underage buyers. I congratulate our local businesses for enforcing the age limit and hope we never have to report any parish business for violating the age requirement for purchasing alcohol. We will be making additional checks during the holiday season.”

Truth in Nature - Franklinton Chapter

The Truth in Nature Franklinton chapter is one of 20 in the United States. The Franklinton chapter has 14 boys registered and 10 men registered as mentors. Their mission is to mentor and teach fatherless and single parent boys about Christ and overall how to be a Godly man in today’s society. This ranges from home life, school, hunting and fishing and just everyday dealings. We are accepting any boys that meet the qualification of being single parent and grades 5th-12th. 

Contact Program Director Country Tynes at 504-400-8748 for further information or email country.tynes@truthinnature.org

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Bogalusan Indicted by Federal Grand Jury – Faces Up to 15 Years in Prison

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that Jerome Shaquille Wilson, aka “Rome,” age 27 and a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 15, 2022 for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Federal law prohibits individuals who have been convicted of certain crimes from possessing firearms after being convicted.

The indictment charges that Wilson had been convicted January 13, 2013 for Aggravated Battery and on April 6, 2021 for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Further, the indictment charges that Wilson was in possession of a firearm and ammunition on December 6, 2022.

If convicted, Wilson faces up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, a period of supervised release of not more than 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

U. S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. 

In a separate matter, Wilson was identified by Bogalusa Police on November 4, 2022 as wanted for Obstruction of Justice in connection with the murder of Jerry Smith outside of Lumberjack stadium during a football game on October 14, 2022. Click here for that story

Washington Parish is Now a "Storm Ready Parish"

Washington Parish Government, through the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, has received recognition as being "STORM READY" by the National Weather Service. Washington Parish is 1 out of 24 parishes throughout our 64 Parish state to be so recognized. Lauren Nash of the National Weather Service presented the "Storm Ready Parish" sign.  

Pictured from left to right (back row) are: Brandon LaSalle, Franklinton Fire Chief, Richard N. Thomas, Jr., Washington Parish President, Jim Coleman, Washington Parish Communications District, Ken Wheat, Washington Parish Director of Public Works, (front row): Bobbi Jo Breland, Jordan Dykes, Washington Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness, Lauran Nash, Wendy Perette, Bogalusa Mayor, Donna W. Graham, Washington Parish Director of Finance, and Alex Sumrall, Washington Parish Quality Assurance.

Photos of Mt. Hermon Christmas Parade

Courtesy of Eric Holmes

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 18, 2022

Eric Causey (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted Home Invasion and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $12000.00.

Sybil McKinney (age 65 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $4000.00.

Edward Ratcliff (age 54 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 $3500.00.

Be Aware of and Prepare for Coming Weather

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.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Unidentified Driver Killed in Fiery St. Tammany Parish Crash

Sunday (December 18, 2022) morning, shortly after 4:30 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two vehicle crash on Interstate 12 near LA Hwy 21 in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of an unidentified driver.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as a 2005 Nissan Altima was eastbound on Interstate 12. At the same time, a 2019 International LT625 was also eastbound on Interstate 12. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan became disabled in the left lane of travel with no lights on. The International struck the rear of the Nissan. After impact, the Nissan became fully engulfed in flames.

The driver of the Nissan was not restrained at the time of the crash. The driver of the Nissan sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the International was properly restrained and was uninjured. The driver of the International was not suspected of impairment and voluntarily submitted to a chemical breath test, which showed no alcohol detected. As part of the ongoing investigation, a routine toxicology sample will be obtained from the driver of the Nissan for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish 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. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Obituary

Peggy Hulene Crain Bryant

April 22, 1942 - December 16, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 16-17, 2022

Taron Brown (age 24 with New Orleans, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $9000.00.

Cody Jones (age 27 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Adria Cassidy (age 39 with Mt. Hermon, 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.

Garrison Magee (age 18 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana (2nd Offense), Possession of CDS With Weapon Present (2 counts), Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility, and Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs/Morphine by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

Jacob Ard (age 27 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Escape, Criminal Damage, Battery of a Correctional Facility Employee (2 counts), and Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.

David Hall (age 39 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Aggravated Assault With a Motor Vehicle on a Peace Officer (3 counts), Resisting an Officer, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property, and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Pedestrian Killed in Crash Near Kentwood

Friday (December 16, 2022) night, shortly before 6:00 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on LA Hwy 10 near North Jackson Road in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 24-year-old Timothy Warden Jr. of Loranger.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Warden Jr. was wearing dark clothing and walking in the roadway on LA Hwy 10. At the same time, a 2017 GMC Yukon was eastbound on LA Hwy 10. For reasons still under investigation, Warden Jr. was struck by the GMC.

Warden Jr. 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 GMC was properly restrained and was uninjured. As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained from Warden Jr. and the driver of the GMC for analysis. Impairment is not suspected to be a factor and this crash remains under investigation.

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.

Mt. Hermon Christmas Parade - December 17, 2022

Mt. Hermon Christmas Parade December 17, 2022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Country Christmas in the Park is Today in Bogalusa

Obituary

John William Magee

May 19, 1932 - December 16, 2022

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Franklinton Mayor and Board of Aldermen Meeting of December 13, 2020

The Franklinton Mayor and Board of Aldermen met Tuesday (December 13, 2022) evening and

• introduced an ordinance to charge a fee for connecting or transferring water and gas services
• heard an update from the Town's insurance agency
• approved a resolution to prohibit the location of methadone clinic in the Town (a moratorium through June 30, 2023)
• approved the hiring of Jimmie Slade as part-time School Resource Officer Sergeant
• approved the hiring of Linda Payne as part-time dispatcher
• approved adding Webb Street to the Town's inventory of streets to pave
• heard Departmental Reports
• approved the engagement of an auditor, Kushner and LaGraize
• heard from residents during Public Participation
• discussed the issue of cleaning up the streets following parades
• received a plaque from Franklinton Youth Football Association in appreciation of the Mayor's and Board's support
• discussed granting Town employees premium pay or bonus for those working during the Covid pandemic

Franklinton Council 12132022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Obituary

Yvelle Parnell Viola

June 25, 1931 - December 14, 2022

Washington Parish School Board Meeting of December 15, 2022

The Washington Parish School Board met Thursday (December 15, 2022) evening to address a full business Agenda and to recognize the service of three outgoing board members. However, the two items concerning Industrial Tax Exemption Program Applications from solar projects dominated the meeting's time. See the video beginning at 19:12 to 51:25 and beginning at 59:55 to 1:16:20. In the end, both applications were denied. 

The Board addressed the rest of the Agenda. Click here for the Agenda.

Outgoing board members were recognized. Dewitt Perry had served on the Board for 16 years, Alan McCain had also served on the Board for 16 years, and Dan Slocum had served on the board for 26 years. 

Following Superintendent Frances Varnado's report and further comments from Board Members, the meeting adjourned.  

WPSB Meeting 12152022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 14-15, 2022

Malik McClain (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, No Proof of Insurance, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Christopher Conerly (age 22 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.

Shandrieka Owens (age 29 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Robbery and Parole Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $25000.00.

Timothy Williams (age 39 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Chad Guy (age 33 with Robert, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Pregnant Woman, Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000, and Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $500.00.

Terry Buckhanan (age 25 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (3 counts) and Bond Surrender (3 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $45000.00.

WPSS Announces Job Opening at MHS

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

A Message from Sheriff Randy "Country" Seal

THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

A MESSAGE FROM SHERIFF RANDY “COUNTRY” SEAL

In the midst of the Christmas season, it is always a blessing to enjoy the spirit of Christmas. For Christians, the season is a celebration as recorded in the New Testament gospels and as foretold by the prophet Isaiah. For others, it is a celebration of joy and thanksgiving. For all, it is a season defined by a spirit of love, light, hope, peace and joyfulness.

Christmas is a time to give and receive. While receiving is always fun, giving is even more fun. Giving brings the giver satisfaction, fulfillment and joy, especially watching children open presents resulting in smiles, laughter, hugs and happiness.

The Christmas season has been described as the happiest season of all, and indeed it usually is. It may be happy because of loved ones with whom we are surrounded. It may be happy because of memories of those who have gone on before us. It may be happy for a variety of reasons. Whatever that reason may be, it generally is a happy season for men and women, boys and girls, regardless of age.

It is in the spirit of Christmas that I offer my sincere gratitude to some very special people.

I am grateful for the wonderful staff of your Sheriff’s Office, each of whom work hard each day to serve the citizens of our parish. Their unselfish devotion pays dividends for all. I am grateful for their sacrifices, knowing that some of them will be working to keep the rest of us safe while we enjoy family and friends on Christmas Day. Thank you, staff, for your service to the citizens of Washington Parish.

I am grateful for the citizens of our parish who support us as we work together to make Washington Parish a great place to live. As your Sheriff, I try always to do the right thing for you at the right time and for the right reason. You expect no less and you deserve no less. Thank you for all you do in support of your Sheriff’s Office.

I am grateful for the pastors and churches of Washington Parish for reminding us of the true reason for the celebration of this special holiday as they proclaim good news to all. 

Following quickly after the Christmas season is our celebration of the beginning of 2023. New Year’s Eve and the days around the holiday are times of celebration, parties and often the consumption of alcohol. I hope all persons who celebrate the holiday with alcohol will do so responsibly. If you do celebrate with alcohol, don’t drink and drive. Always use a designated driver. If you travel during the holidays, drive safely.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I look forward to continue serving you in 2023 and the years following.

Randy “Country” Seal

Sheriff

WPSS Announces Literacy Tutoring Program

Obituary

Walter Wilton Johnson

November 18, 1947 - December 13, 2022

Obituary

Hazel L Darden

November 17, 1935 - December 14, 2022

Obituary

Catherine Ann Booty Walters

June 4, 1943 - December 14, 2022

Obituary

Austin Craig Harper

January 15, 1998 - December 11, 2022

Obituary

Ralph Graves

April 22, 1951 - December 8, 2022

Mt. Hermon Christmas Parade is Saturday

Reminder: Santa Coming to Franklinton Town Hall on Friday

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 11-13, 2022

Regina Canoy (age 46 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Heroin and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.

Bobby Blackwell (age 37 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Convicted Feon in Possession of Firearm, No Proof of Insurance, No MVI, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $8250.00.

Joel Smith (age 56 with Madisonville, La. address) was booked on the charges of Vehicular Homicide and Driving Left of Center/Wrong Side of Hwy by the Louisiana State Police. Bond set at $85000.00.

Latifah Turin (age 20 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2500.00 bond.

Obituary

Kenneth Ray Freeman

June 4, 1959 - December 13, 2022

Severe Weather Updates for Washington Parish

Bobbi Jo Breland, Director of the Washington Parish Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, advises that she reached out to the National Weather Service this morning (December 14, 2022) and the main concern as of this morning are the storms ahead of the line that could produce damaging winds, tornadoes and large hail, with the line reaching our area anywhere between 4 and 5 pm. We are at a 10% risk of strong tornadoes, 15% risk of damaging winds and 5% risk of hail. Our area is under a Tornado Watch till 1pm and a Flash Flood Watch through this evening.

Update: The line of storms has slowed if not stalled near the southwest MS and SELA border. This line is stretching to the WSW all the way back to southeast TX. 

**The highest rainfall amounts will occur in this line as it drifts southeast. Rainfall estimates with this line early this morning are near 7" in a few places. 

**We continue to anticipate the rainfall threat to be highest for the areas west of I-55, through late this morning. These areas, though, are also still at risk of seeing severe weather (a few tornadoes and damaging winds 60+mph), especially as we start to heat up.

**The severe weather threat will increase through the day for much of SELA and into coastal MS. Storms will likely not really begin to pick up in coverage till closer to midday and even though many of you are currently in a tornado watch and have been for a few hours please do not let you guard down thinking the threat is over. This was never going to be a quick-hitting system and the worst of the severe impacts have been expected to occur around midday and through the afternoon.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Magnolia Man Out on Bond Arrested in Fatal Shooting

Today (December 13, 2022) at approximately 7:30 a.m., Pike County MS Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the 1000 block of Hwy 48 East in Magnolia, in reference to a shooting. Deputies made contact with  Emberly Patterson who had sustained gunshot wounds and later died from her injuries.

Deputies secured the perimeter and was able to locate the alleged suspect, Emmanuel Patterson, who had barricaded himself inside the residence. Pike County Sheriff’s Office deputies along with Mississippi Highway Patrol officers gained entry to the residence and arrested Emmanuel Patterson without incident. 

The investigation is ongoing. Emmanuel Patterson was out on a $70,000.00 bond for an Attempted Murder that occurred in the city of Magnolia in 2021. No bond has been set at this time for the current incident.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Office expressed their thanks to the McComb Police Department, Mississippi Highway Patrol, and Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics for their assistance.

Joint Operation in Covington Results in Two Arrests

On Tuesday (December 13, 2022), in the early morning hours, the  Covington Police Department's Narcotics Unit and Louisiana Probation & Parole’s Tactical Unit conducted a joint operation on 1115 N. Columbia Street which has been investigated for illegal narcotics sales over the last several months. 

While officers conducted the search warrant, investigators located 47 year-old Timothy Bedford (B/M) of Covington in possession of the following illegal substances: 2.25 lbs. of marijuana, 326 pressed fentanyl pills, and 60 crack cocaine rocks.

While officers were searching, a black male subject, later identified as 24 year-old Marrio Haynes, Jr. (B/M), arrived at the residence unaware that a search was being conducted. When Haynes met officers in the backyard, Haynes fled on foot. After a lengthy foot pursuit, officers were able to detain Haynes where the following items were located on his person: Fentanyl Pills, Marijuana, and a loaded pistol

Bedford and Haynes were booked on numerous drug and weapons charges. 

The Covington Police Department expressed their thanks to the Louisiana Probation & Parole’s Office for their assistance in this operation and also their Narcotics Division for their dedication and proactive work in making our community safer. 

“Today, some of the drugs taken from this operation have been proven to kill. Illegal drug sales have also proven to provoke gang activity and gun violence, none of which the Covington Police Department will tolerate. Let this serve as a warning to other drug dealers in the City of Covington. We are a proactive unit, and eventually, you will be caught”. - Chief Ferrell

Obituary

Luevirty Davis

May 13, 1936 - December 11, 2022

Obituary

Ronié Avant Taylor

July 15, 2007 - December 9, 2022

Obituary

James Edward Tate

January 28, 1954 - December 11, 2022

Tips to Defeat Porch Pirates From AG Jeff Landry

As this time of year is a busy one for packages to be delivered, Attorney General Jeff Landry is offering tips to help protect Louisiana families from porch pirates.

“Many of our neighbors are shopping online more this holiday season than before; this unfortunately means an increase in marks for package thieves,” said Attorney General Landry. “Do not let porch pirates steal your joy; please watch and share our Public Service Announcement and please read and share the tips below.”

Attorney General Landry offers Louisiana consumers the following tips to keep their neighborhoods safe from porch piracy:

• Get your deliveries at more secure locations. Ship packages to work or use the "ship-to-store" option.
• Sign up for delivery alerts so you may track the package and possibly arrange to be present for home deliveries.
• Ask a trusted neighbor to get your packages if you are not able to be there when they arrive.
• Require signatures for your deliveries.
• Be a good neighbor. If you spot a package at your neighbors' doorstep, call them and ask if they would like you to hold onto it until they return home.

“If you have a package stolen, please report it to your local law enforcement through their non-emergency line,” added Attorney General Landry.

Obituary

Jerry Vial Tibbs

August 5, 1957 - November 21, 2022

“Most Significant Financial Decision” Made by the WP Council

The Washington Parish Council met Monday (December 12, 2022) evening to address a full Agenda. Dominating the meeting was Agenda Item # 9, “Discuss and take appropriate action concerning Industrial Tax Exemption Program Application-Project ID 20210366-ITE (Bogalusa West PVI, LLC). The Council's Attorney Wayne Kuhn characterized the matter as “the most significant financial decision” made by the Washington Parish Council. 

At issue was whether or not to grant an Industrial Tax Exemption to a solar project by Bogalusa West PVI, LLC north of Bogalusa on approximately 2800 acres of 112,000 acres owned by Weyerhaeuser in the Parish. 

Due diligence was given the matter. (See the video below, beginning at 6:40) The Council heard from representatives of Savion, one of the country’s largest and most technologically advanced utility-scale solar and energy storage project development companies in the U.S. and a Shell Group portfolio company. The Council also heard from numerous parish residents, most of whom were opposed to granting the ITC. Questions were asked and answered, projections were made and disputed, and the pros and cons were discussed concerning the potentially tens of millions of dollars in tax revenue involved. Would denying the ITC deprive the Parish of a substantial opportunity? Would the project proceed without the ITC? In the bigger picture, is solar projects good for our Parish or a disruption to our way of life? Well, solar is apparently here to stay and regulating and managing it is the best we can do.

In the end, the Council voted to deny the ITC. Click here for a recent related article and video and click here for more related stories and video regarding the solar issue

In other business, the Council 

• approved the 2023 Annual Operating Budget and the Capital Outlay Budget for the Washington Parish Government
• approved the contract for disaster debris monitoring and management services
• introduced an ordinance establishing a four-way traffic stop at the intersection of Frankie Miller Road and Bill Simmons Road
• approved resolutions authorizing the Parish President to sign intergovernmental agreements to assist the Village of Varnado, the City of Bogalusa, the Town of Franklinton, and the Village of Angie with skilled labor and mechanized equipment towards driveway, parking area, road rehabilitation, drainage and flood control
• approved appointments to the Washington Parish Fire District No. 1 Board of Directors, the Washington Parish Tourism Commission Board of Directors, the Washington Parish Planning Commission Board of Directors, the Mt. Hermon Water District Board of Directors, and the Washington Parish Fire District No. 7. Board of Directors

The President's Report begins at 1:49:55

Parish President Thomas announced that notice has been received from the National Weather Service that Washington Parish is recognized as “Storm Ready”. Washington Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness Director Bobby Joe Breland added more information and that Washington Parish is one of the 24 of 64 Louisiana parishes to receive the recognition. 

President Thomas expressed his appreciation to the voters for approving the renewal of a tax to meet State mandated expenses.

President Thomas and Public Works Director also commented on the improved financial status of the Parish, in contrast to other parishes. 

WP Council 12122022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Obituary

Michael "Slim" Dickson

May 13, 1999 - December 11, 2022

Obituary

Linda Nelson Chesnutt

November 19, 1957 - December 11, 2022

Obituary

John Wayne Fussell

January 12, 1960 - December 12, 2022

Guns Seized in Pike County Traffic Stop

Pike County MS Sheriff's Office deputies made a traffic stop at the intersection of Magnolia-Holmesville Road and Old Hwy 24, and ended up finding 5 guns, 3 ski masks, 38 grams of marijuana, $760 cash, a T-Mobile portable WIFI router, 1 black toboggan. The 5 suspects were taken into custody, and charged with Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance While in Possession of a Firearm. 

Arrested were Brandon Dean, John Osby, Xavier Pittman, Jaylin Hawthorne, and LeCameron Reynolds. No bond has been set at this time. 

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Sheriff James Brumfield would like to thank Lt. Mark Thompson and his shift for proactive policing. He said, “As a result of their efforts, we were able to take these weapons off the streets before a more serious crime occurred.”

Franklinton Man Dies in Crash - Impairment Suspected

On Sunday (December 11, 2022) shortly before 9:00 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 25 near C C Road in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of 68-year-old James Tate of Franklinton.

The initial investigation revealed that the crash occurred as 56-year-old Joel Smith Jr. of Madisonville was northbound on LA Hwy 25 in a 2019 Ford F-250. At the same time, Tate was southbound on LA Hwy 25 in a 2019 Ford F-150. The preliminary findings revealed the F-250 crossed the center-line into the opposing lane, which resulted in the F-250 striking the F-150.

Despite Tate being properly restrained, he sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. At this time, impairment is unknown on the part of Tate, but a routine toxicology sample was obtained and will be submitted for analysis. 

At this time, restraint use is unknown for Smith Jr. He sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Impairment is suspected to be a factor in the crash on the part of Smith Jr. A toxicology sample was obtained from Smith Jr. and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation and charges are pending.

Louisiana State Police would like to remind all motorists that if you feel differently, you drive differently. Alcohol, prescription medication, and other drugs have many effects on the body that negatively affect driving skills. These drugs can impair visual ability, alter the sense of time and space, impair fine motor skills needed to operate a motor vehicle, and decrease reaction times. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and designate a sober driver. Not doing so can have deadly consequences.

Obituary

Robert "Bob" Graves

December 26, 1946 - December 12, 2022

Obituary

Ione Barber Gerald

December 3, 1941 - December 10, 2022

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.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Impairment Suspected in Fatal Head-On Tangipahoa Parish Crash

Sunday (December 11, 2022) morning, shortly before 5:00 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 445 near Gateway Drive in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 24-year-old Austin Harper of Loranger.

The initial investigation revealed that the crash occurred as 31-year-old Justin Scully of Loranger was northbound on LA Hwy 445 in a 2009 GMC Acadia. At the same time, Harper was southbound on LA Hwy 445 in a 2014 Volkswagen Jetta. The preliminary findings revealed the GMC crossed the centerline into the opposing lane, which resulted in the GMC striking the Volkswagen head-on.

Harper was unrestrained and sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. At this time, impairment is unknown on the part of Harper, but a routine toxicology sample was obtained and will be submitted for analysis.

Scully was properly restrained at the time of the crash and sustained serious injuries. He was transported to a local hospital. Impairment is suspected to be a factor in the crash on the part of Scully. A toxicology sample was obtained from Scully and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation and charges are pending.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 8-10, 2022

Jerome Warren (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Vehicle Burglary (11 counts), Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot (3 counts), Criminal Trespass, and Possession of Marijuana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Errica Ramsey (age 49 with Bogalusa, La address) was booked on the charges of 1st Degree Murder, Armed Robbery, Armed Robbery With Firearm, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $200000.00.

Russell Sumrall (age 28 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of False Imprisonment and Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)