One pleads guilty in Operation TBOS

 

The Guardian-Journal

One of the many arrested in 2010 during the Homer Police Department’s Taking Back Our Streets (TBOS) initiative has pled guilty to drug charges.

According to court records, Eric Williams pled guilty in district court to three counts of drug distribution on two different indictments. He pled guilty to two counts of Schedule II cocaine stemming from indictments in March and June 2010 and one count of the same charge in July 2010.

In his plea agreement, he agreed to a 10-year sentence on each count to run concurrent and will be sentenced per that agreement on November 13.

Williams is a repeat offender with past charges of distribution, possession with intent to distribute and kidnapping.

“He’s served most of his adult life in and out of prison,” said Homer Police Captain Donald Malray. “According to intelligence reports, Williams was one of our major drug suppliers in the Homer area.”

He was arrested on August 27, 2010, in Operation TBOS after the Homer Police Department received several phone calls in reference to prescription drugs being sold illegally. In fact, in a 2010 article, Malray said there were several overdoses, one of which was fatal.

Malray headed the investigation, and through funds from the Town of Homer and money seized in evidence, officers were able to make undercover buys.

Since March 2010, 44 indictments had been made from the undercover buys with some being repeat offenders, all of which have been to court. According to Malray, the majority of them received probation on various drug charges.

Tommy Ray Mitchell, another arrested in Operation TBOS, pled guilty in February to distribution of Schedule I narcotics and was sentenced to eight years hard labor, two years of probation and parole with five years suspended.

Out of the 44 indictments, Williams was one of the last ones to go to court.

 

Burglars caught with loot

 

The Guardian-Journal

Two Homer men were caught with stolen items in their vehicle after a burglary was reported to the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office.

According to a news release, on Thursday, September 27, Deputy Randy Pugh responded to a call regarding a burglary on Kinsey Road.

Detective Randy Smith and Chief Detective Charles Buford were dispatched to the residence in order to initiate an investigation.

While in route to the residence, detectives encountered the pickup truck referenced in the burglary report. Upon detaining the vehicle, detectives found the driver of the vehicle to be Otis C. Ford, 48, and the passenger to be Kevin D. Ford, 26, both of Homer.

Items reported stolen from the residence in question were found in the back of the truck that Otis Ford and Kevin Ford were occupying. Upon evidence obtained during the investigation, detectives arrested Kevin D. Ford for simple criminal damage to property with bond set at $2,000 and simple burglary with bond set at $12,000. Otis C. Ford was arrested and charged with simple criminal damage to property with bond set at $2,000, simple burglary with bond set at $12,000, driving under suspension with bond set at $500, no insurance with bond set at $500 and probation/parole violation with no bond.

Both men were transported to the Claiborne Parish Detention Center for booking.

 

CPSO warns of scams

 

Claiborne Parish Sheriff Ken Bailey and Detective Ben Booth would like to caution all citizens regarding telephone and computer scams.

The sheriff’s office has had numerous complaints recently regarding money lost to these scams. These are from people who contact you claiming to be companies that wish to assist you in protecting your accounts. They can be named misleading titles, such as “Fraud Alert” and use this to confuse citizens.

These are not actual fraud alert companies but are scams. They are designed to trap you into giving them information or money to “protect” your accounts or to award your prizes. Any caller that requests money from you in order for you to receive more money is always a scam.

Remember, you are never going to get something for nothing. The “deal of a lifetime” is not going to be, and if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Please protect yourself and your earnings; always be on guard.

If the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office can do anything to assist you, please contact us at 318-927-2011.

 

Haynesville man racks up drug charges

 

The Guardian-Journal

A Haynesville man has been arrested on several warrants after he fled police.

Kevin D. Waller, 26, was arrested on Friday, September 28, and charged with three counts of distribution of Schedule II CDS cocaine with bond set at $25,000 each for a total of $75,000, three counts of conspiracy to distribute Schedule II CDS cocaine, with bond set at $25,000 each for a total of $75,000.

All six counts are warrants issued through the Claiborne Narcotic Enforcement Team, of which the Haynesville Police Department picked him up.

Waller was also charged with two counts of failure to appear with a $988 fine on each or serve 30 days on each. He was also charged with resisting an officer with a bond of $500.

The two failure to appear charges stem from his failure to appear in Haynesville City Court on two DWI charges, loud music, no driver’s license, no registration and no insurance. According to Haynesville Police Chief Anthony Smith, Waller received the two DWIs within a 24-hour period.

Smith said Officers Mario Thomas and Brandon Callicott were dispatched to a residence on Waller Street in reference to a disturbance. Upon arrival, Smith said Waller fled on foot. Officers pursued the suspect on foot and he was apprehended.

CNET led the investigation into the distribution and conspiracy to distribute charges.

 

Claiborne Parish Fair October 14-20

 

The Guardian-Journal

The Claiborne Parish Fair is just around the corner and it’s expected to be a blast!

Officially opening on Tuesday, October 16, at 5 p.m., following the Claiborne Parish Fair Parade at 4 p.m., several specials will be going on, along with livestock shows, arts and crafts, and the Claiborne Parish Fair Queen pageant. There is sure to be fun for everyone!

A schedule of events is as follows:

 

Sunday, October 14

1 until 4 p.m.: School and Club poster displays; set up in north end, General Exhibit entries accepted. (No bakery items accepted, only canned foods.)

1 p.m.: Livestock to begin arriving

4 p.m.: Start weighing goats, lambs and swine

6 p.m.: Deadline for goat, lamb, swine and commercial heifer weigh-in

 

Monday, October 15

9 a.m. until 5 p.m.: General exhibit entries and fresh crops and vegetables accepted (No bakery items accepted, only canned foods.) School and Poster Displays set up (Exception -- Art and photography accepted only until noon.)

6 p.m.: 4-H Poultry and Egg Cookery Contest, all dairy and beef cattle must be in barn (Exception: Dairy Cows in milk must arrive morning of dairy show.) All entries must be in the barn.

 

Tuesday, October 16 (School students will only go to school a half day)

9 until 10 a.m.: Bakery items accepted and fresh vegetables accepted

10 a.m.: Judging of all entries and poultry (except livestock), General Exhibit judging

4 p.m.: Claiborne Parish Fair Parade (2012 Grand Marshals will be Nurlie Foster and J.C. Ruple)

4 p.m. until closing: CARNIVAL OPENS!!!!

5 p.m.: Judge goats and lambs, judge market and breeding swine

 

Wednesday, October 17

9 a.m. until noon: School Group Day (Day care, Pre-k through fourth grades

2 until 4 p.m.: Bingo at the South End of the Fair Building

4 p.m.: Claiborne Parish Rabbit Show (Livestock Barn)

6 p.m.: CARNIVAL OPEN!!!!

6 p.m.: Judge dairy and beef

 

Thursday, October 18

6 p.m.: CARNIVAL OPENS!!!!

6 p.m.: Buyers Supper for all Sales Supporters

7 p.m.: Junior Livestock Sale

 

Friday, October 19

9 until 11 a.m.: Remove all exhibits and displays

6 p.m.: CARNIVAL OPEN!!!!

 

Saturday, October 20

9 a.m. until 3 p.m.:Antique and Vintage Tractor and Equipment Show (Registration from 8 until 9 a.m.)

6 p.m. until closing: CARNIVAL OPEN!!!!

5 p.m.: Claiborne Parish Fair Queen Pageant (Rules and entry forms will be printed in the local newspapers)

 

This year’s Claiborne Parish Fair Association includes the 2012 Fair Directors T.N. “Tip” Sherman, president, Wayne Kilpatrick, vice president, Clair Traylor, secretary, Charles Garrett, treasurer. Board members include Janell Brown, Sherline Carver, Tim Crittendon, Lillie Harper, Brandy Holt, J.R. Holt, Nan Liles, Jimmy Monzingo, J.C. Ruple, Carla Smith, Herbert Taylor, Buddy Thomas and Bill Traylor. Advisors to the board are Dr. P. Colyer, Teresa Raley and Lee Faulk.

For more information on contests and contest rules (excluding the Fair Queen Pageant), please pick up a copy of the Claiborne Parish Fair Catalog at any of the following locations: Homer and Haynesville City Halls, Curves, Ted’s Pharmacy, Killgore’s Pharmacy, Fred Smith and Sons, All Homer Banks, Claiborne Extension Office, Gibsland Bank and Trust in Athens and Carla’s Cut & Curl.

 

Hill Farm Research Station Tour October 9

 

A tour of the LSU AgCenter’s Hill Farm Research Station will be going on most of the day at 11959 Hwy. 9 in Homer.

The morning tour will provide a general tour of the station that includes forage management for warm-season pastures, beef cattle research overview, heating options for poultry houses and planting and thinning strategies for loblolly pine trees.

Registration and exhibits will be from 9 until 9:30 a.m., the general tour from 9:30 until 11 a.m., director’s updates from 11 until 11:30 a.m. with a free lunch provided, beef or forestry tours from 1 until 3:30 p.m.

To RSVP, or for more information, please call 318-927-2578. This event qualifies for continuing education credits for veterinarians and certified foresters.

 

Homer FD extinguishes trash blaze


The Guardian-Journal photos/Michelle Bates

Just before lunch on Friday, September 28, the Homer Fire Department was called to a field north of Homer to extinguish a fire that started on a garbage truck. When firefighters arrived, workers had already unloaded most of its contents onto the field and allowed to burn. According to Homer Fire Chief Dennis Butcher, the cause of the blaze is unknown.

 

Expo offers tips for seniors


The Guardian-Journal photos/Michelle Bates

Above, Tangie Wallace, with Visions of Tomorrow, explains the services the company offers for seniors who need an extra helping hand. Sponsored by the SALT Triad Council, Saturday’s Senior Expo, focused on offering tips to seniors for their health needs, planning for their future and estate planning. The expo hosted vendors which allowed seniors to visit and learn more about what best fits their needs. Local attorney Jim Hatch, below, also offered an informative presentation on estate planning.

 

Retirement bills, tax exemptions for veterans’ spouses among ballot items

 

The Guardian-Journal

In the second installment of the constitutional amendments that will be on the November 6 ballot, Proposed Amendments No. 3 and 4 deal with changing the pre-filing deadlines for retirement bills from 10 days to 45 days before the regular legislative sessions and extending the property tax exemptions to spouses of veterans.

 

Proposed Amendment No. 3

Act No. 872 Senate Bill No. 21, Regular Session, 2012

Do you support an amendment to require legislation effecting any change to laws concerning retirement systems for public employees that is to be pre-filed to be filed no later than forty-five days before the start of a regular legislative session and to require the completion of public notice requirements regarding legislation effecting such a change no later than sixty days before introduction of the bill? (Amends Article III, Section 2(A)(2), Article X, Section 29(C), and Article XIII, Section 1(A))

 

Legislators who file bills before a regular legislative session must do so no later than 10 days before the first day of the session. However, any proposals to existing laws or constitutional provisions related to the state’s public retirement systems cannot be introduced in the Legislature unless prior public notice has been given. This means that public notice must be given in the state’s official journal two separate days with the last day of publication no later than 30 days before the bill is introduced.

Because the state’s retirement system is so complicated, proponents (those for the change) say the state’s public employees need as much time as possible to look over the proposals, understand what they do and don’t do and decide how they want to participate in the discussion. Setting earlier deadlines for pre-filing retirement bills and for publishing the notices of intent would give the public more time to digest the content of the bills and understand their impact.

It would also give the state’s actuaries more time to analyze the impact of any proposed retirement bills.

However, those against such a measure say moving up the deadline for pre-filing and publishing the notices of intent may not have the desired effect. For instance, while the earlier publication deadline for notices of intent would provide more advanced warning, it would not necessarily provide useful details. Furthermore, there is nothing to stop the legislators from changing the bills as they move through the legislative process. Bills can be altered substantially as long as the changes are relevant to the original version.

 

Proposed Amendment No. 4

Act No. 875, Senate Bill No. 337, Regular Session 2012

Do you support an amendment to exempt from ad valorem taxation, in addition to the homestead exemption, the next seventy-five thousand dollars of value of property owned and occupied by the spouse of a deceased veteran with a service-connected disability rating of one hundred percent who passed away prior to the enactment of the exemption? (Effective January 1, 2013) (Amends Article VII, Section 21(K)(1))

 

The Constitution lists all eligible exemptions from property taxes. It exempts from most property taxes up to $75,000 of the value of a homestead. In order to qualify for the homestead exemption, the owner must both own and occupy the property.

A 2010 amendment to the Constitution gave local parish governing authorities the ability to ask voters to double the homestead exemption in their parishes for disabled veterans with a 100 percent service-connected disability rating. That exemption is now $150,000 for those who qualify in the parishes that voted in favor of the amendment. The 2010 change allowed the spouses of these veterans to continue claiming the higher exemption if it was in effect at the time the veteran died. As of September 2012, voters in 47 parishes had approved measures allowing the increased exemption.

The proposed amendment would tweak the language of the 2010 amendment and says that if the surviving spouse of a deceased disabled veteran occupies and remains the owner of the couple’s home, he or she can claim the higher homestead exemption whether or not the exemption was in effect at the time the veteran died.

Proponents of the amendment say the impact on local taxing bodies would be minimal. In 2010, officials estimated there were approximately 2,000 homeowner/occupants in Louisiana who would be eligible for the higher exemptions. The estimated statewide impact if all parishes offered the new exemption was $2 million in lost annual local revenues, less than one-tenth of one percent of total property taxes collected statewide.

The argument against this amendment would result in yet another expansion of the homestead exemption and would further erode the local tax base in parishes that opt to extend the benefit.

 

Information for this story was obtained through the Secretary of State’s website at www.sos.louisiana.gov and the Public Affairs Research Council’s Guide to the Amendments.

 

Town of Homer introduces 2012 Mayor’s Youth Council

The Guardian-Journal photo/Michelle Bates

Homer Mayor Alecia Smith, third from left, and Judge Jenifer Clason stand with the newly sworn in Mayor’s Youth Council. In no particular order, the 2012 Mayor’s Youth Council are: Brianna Cotton, Kadeazsha Ferguson, John Holloway, Jasmine Jenkins, Tre’Various Moore, Americana Walker, Ciaira Washington and Norman Meadors Jr.

 

MICHELLE BATES, Editor

The Town of Homer introduced its Mayor’s Youth Council Monday in an effort to introduce high school students to the workings of government.

Alysia Mitchell, public relations consultant for the town, gave an overview of what the council is and what kinds of activities the group will be participating in.

“They are going to learn about the inner workings of city government,” Mitchell said, and that’s why she was so excited when they decided to do a voter registration drive which netted 24 new registered voters.

Other things they will be doing is coming to the 26th Judicial District Court in Homer to see how the justice system works and the “mayor” elected in the youth council will also shadow Mayor Smith for one day to see just what her job entails.

They will also participate in community events as well as host community events throughout the school year.

“I really want to thank Mr. Robinson,” Mitchell said. “He’s been so gracious to be one of our advisors at the school and they can come to him if they need something. He helped with the voter registration drive.”

With eight members on the council, all are seniors with the exception of two. Members include Brianna Cotton, Kadeazsha Ferguson, John Holloway, Jasmine Jenkins, Tre’Various Moore, Americana Walker, Ciaira Washington and Norman Meadors Jr.

Applications were sent to Homer High School and Claiborne Academy for anyone who wanted to participate in the Mayor’s Youth Council, Mayor Smith said.

Judge Jenifer Clason, 26th Judicial District Judge, administered the oath of office for each member, and told the teenagers how proud she is of what they are doing. In fact, when she administered the oath of office, she read the same language used when swearing in any elected official into office.

Following the oath of office, she said a public prayer with the newly sworn in youth council asking for guidance and guard them in their efforts to serve their community.

Robinson and Mitchell are the advisors of the council.

On the agenda was the police review board, but because two council members were absent, the item was tabled until the November meeting. However, the council members who were present did announce their choice for the board, although McCalman’s choice has not been verified. District 5 Councilwoman Patricia Jenkins announced Michael Duck as her choice, District 4 Councilwoman Carlette Sanford announced Chuck Talley as her choice, Mozeke will serve on the board herself, and District 2 Councilman Michael Wade announced David Robinson as his choice.

However, the board will not be seated until the item is again discussed at November’s meeting due to the absence of City Attorney Marcus Patillo.

During the public comments portion of the meeting, Jesse Ford spoke to the council regarding some concerns he had about ditch control as there are several ditches in his neighborhood that are stopped up. He also raised concerns about dog control in the city limits as there are several pit bulls in the area.

He spoke to Maintenance Supervisor Lee Wells and Mayor Alecia Smith said he could call the office at any time if they could offer more assistance.

Also, the mayor asked that everyone keep McCalman, Mozeke and Patillo in their prayers as they were all out Monday night due to illness.

In the mayor’s report, Smith reported that water collects for the month of September were $98,026.72 and sales tax collections were $96,374.15.

The council also met in executive session to discuss long-term and strategic planning. As the council came out of executive session, no decisions were made.

The next meeting of the Homer Town Council will be November 5, at 6 p.m. in council chambers, located inside Homer City Hall. For more information, or for questions, please call their office at 318-927-3555.

 

Fuller Center seeking volunteers

 

The Fuller Center for Housing of Claiborne Parish is seeking volunteers to help build and repair homes. The Fuller Center is also asking for monetary donations to help eradicate poverty housing. Those interested in giving a helping hand may get involved through their church, business owners or individually. For anyone who would like to help, please contact Jeffrey Rhone at 318-927-1161 or David Colbert, Family Resources, at 318-624-1698 or 318-225-2344. The Fuller Center for Housing is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All donations are tax deductible.

 

 

Claiborne Parish tourism initiative is underway

 

JIMMY DEAN, Feature Writer

The Claiborne Chamber of Commerce has put together an assortment of materials to highlight where to go and what to do and see in Claiborne Parish. “Whether you’re a visitor or a local resident,Brochures and the Two Disc Driving CD available at several area locations - Click to Visit ClaiborneParishTourism.org Claiborne Parish has a driving tour CD set that you will find interesting,” says John Watson, Executive Director of the Chamber.

“The CD is one part of a major initiative aimed at helping others see and appreciate what is wonderful about Claiborne Parish,” Watson notes.

Asked what else is a part of the initiative, Watson explains that a colorful tourism brochure has been prepared. In addition,  there is a new website www.claiborneparishtourism.org.

Also, a cemetery brochure includes a map of the parish with the locations of 156 cemeteries in the parish or within a few miles of the parish line.

Finally, television ads have appeared describing Claiborne Parish as a desirable tourist destination.

Describing the tourism brochure, Watson says it highlights points of interest in Homer, Haynesville, Athens, Lisbon, Summerfield, and other areas of Claiborne Parish. It points out that 10 buildings in the parish are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The brochure includes pictures of the Claiborne Parish Courthouse, Herbert S. Ford Museum, Lisbon’s Killgore House, the mural on the west wall of Haynesville’s Killgore Pharmacy,  Homer’s Old Town Cemetery, the Hill Farm, Summerfield’s Alberry Wasson House, and Lake Claiborne.

The cover of the “Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, Cemetery Guide” notes that it is intended to be “A guide to finding the resting places of your ancestors.” A brief description gives directions for each of the 156 cemeteries There is also a map in the brochure marking the approximate location of each.

The new tourism website, www.claiborneparishtourism.org, describes Lake Claiborne State Park and lists local lodging such as Panther Creek Bed and Breakfast at Summerfield and Lake Claiborne Vacation Cottage on Harmon Loop.

The website describes “eateries” such as the Rebel Stop and Moon’s toward Summerfield, Port-au-Prince on Lake Claiborne, Sunrise Bakery and Restaurant and Homer Seafood and Pizza as well as Yesterday’s Grill in Haynesville.

Highlights related to Homer, Haynesville, Lisbon, Athens, Summerfield, and the parish’s historic cemeteries are all mentioned on the website.

Some parish events are plugged including the Butterfly Festival, the Claiborne Jubilee, the 4th of July Fireworks and Boat Parade, Lake Claiborne Antique Auto and Bike Show, and the Christmas Festival.

The set consists of two CDs with 41 tracks of information highlighting areas of interest around the parish. For only $3 visitors or local residents can learn things about Claiborne Parish that’s not in the history books, stories passed down from grandparents to grandchildren that has become the stuff of local legend and lore.

Of course, the internet website is free as is the tourism brochure. With the cemetery guide available for $1 and the driving CD sets for $3, the whole tourism package is available for $4, a token cost to cover expenses of production.

Many local citizens donated many hours to the brochures, the cemetery guide, the driving CDs, and the website.

Brochures and CD sets are available at the following locations:

* The Grapevine

* Port-au-Prince Restaurant

* Killgore Pharmacy

* The Rebel Stop

* Claiborne Parish Library

* Delta Interiors

* The Chamber Office at Ford Museum

Brochures only are available at the following:

* Courtyard Florist

* Lake Claiborne State Park

* Haynesville City Hall

* The Guardian-Journal

 

NOTICE: Deadline For Advertisements

No Later Than 5 p.m. On Mondays

All display and legal advertisements for The Guardian-Journal must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on the Monday of the week in which it is to appear. Classified ads will be received until 12 p.m (noon) on Tuesday prior to the Thursday publication date. Thank you for your cooperation.

 

NOTICE TO READERS
THE GUARDIAN-JOURNAL HAS A NEW TOLL-FREE LINE AT
1-877-480-9918.

Archived Guardian Journal Headlines & News Briefs from November 1999
 

News Briefs

School Board to meet October 4

The Claiborne Parish School Board will meet at 6 p.m. in the meeting room at Central Office in Homer for its monthly meeting. For more information, or for questions, please call their office at 318-927-3502.

 

Claiborne Fair Queen Pageant Deadline October 5

The 2012 Claiborne Parish Fair Queen Pageant will be at 5 p.m. Saturday, October 20. This year’s pageant theme will be “Fleur De Lis Fabulous, Celebrating Louisiana 200 Years.” All female residents of Claiborne Parish, ages 0-18, are encouraged to attend. Those needing more information or seeking an application are asked to please contact Pageant Director Dustyn McDonald Williams at 318-624-4403 or by email at . Deadline for applicant entry is October 5. Please join us for a night of beauty, entertainment and support for the Claiborne Parish Fair.

 

Middlefork Water System to meet October 8

The regular monthly meeting of the Middlefork Water System will be at 6 p.m. at the Lisbon Civic Center. Middlefork Water System is an equal opportunity provider.

 

Hill Farm Research Station Tour October 9

A tour of the LSU AgCenter’s Hill Farm Research Station will be going on most of the day at 11959 Hwy. 9 in Homer. The morning tour will provide a general tour of the station that includes forage management for warm-season pastures, beef cattle research overview, heating options for poultry houses and planting and thinning strategies for loblolly pine trees. Registration and exhibits will be from 9 until 9:30 a.m., the general tour from 9:30 until 11 a.m., director’s updates from 11 until 11:30 a.m. with a free lunch provided, beef or forestry tours from 1 until 3:30 p.m. To RSVP, or for more information call 318-927-2578. This event qualifies for continuing education credits for veterinarians and certified foresters.

 

Police Jury to meet October 10

The Claiborne Parish Police Jury will meet at 9 a.m. for its monthly meeting in the police jury meeting room. For more information, or for questions, please call their office at 318-927-2222.

 

Carrying Concealed Handgun Permit Class Oct 13th in Homer

A Carrying Concealed Handgun Permit Course, required for the Louisiana State Police Handgun Permit, will be conducted in Homer. Anyone wishing to register for this class may do so online at www.DefensiveTraining.us or by calling 318-225-1366, 318-927-5026 or or 318-268-5052 and request a registration form. The cost of the class is $50 per attendee. Information on submitting course fee by mail is on the registration form and if registering by mail, money orders or cash only for registration fee, no checks accepted and registration fee is not refundable. The course is from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., with the classroom session in the morning and range session in afternoon. Location of the classroom is the Homer Fire Department and range portion will at DWCC. Pre-registration is required and registration forms along with fee must be in by Wednesday, Oct 10. Certificates will be issued after completion of class along with applications for Carrying Concealed Handgun to the LA State Police. Applications may also be obtained by going to the Louisiana State Police website and clicking on the Carry Concealed Handgun section. For further information or questions, visit www.DefensiveTraining.us, Call 318-225-1366, 318-426-6631 or 318-268-5052.

 

Advanced Carrying Concealed Weapons Class - Oct 20th In Homer

Advanced Carrying Concealed Weapons Course, is slated for Saturday Oct 20th in Homer. The classroom session will be held at the Homer Fire Station training room from 8 until 10a.m., with the range course taking place at the DWCC firing range. Individuals who have completed a carrying concealed handgun class with Golden Eagle Training and Safety are eligible to attend the advanced class or anyone who has a current Carrying Concealed Handgun license. The advanced class covers the areas in the fundamentals of shooting, combat shooting, decision-making and other topics in self-defense with a firearm. Anyone wishing to register for this class may do so online at www.DefensiveTraining.us or by calling 318-225-1366, 318-927-5026 or 318-268-5052 and request a registration form. The cost of the class is $50 per attendee. Information on submitting course fee by mail is on the registration form and if registering by mail, money orders or cash only for registration fee, no checks accepted and registration fee is not refundable. The course is from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., with the classroom session in the morning and range session in afternoon. For further information or questions, visit www.DefensiveTraining.us, Call 318-225-1366, 318-426-6631 or 318-268-5052.

 

Claiborne ACT-SO Orientation set for October 13

High school students and their parents interested in participating in the Claiborne Parish NAACP African-American Academic Cultural Technological Scientific Olympics, ACT-SO, program is invited to attend an orientation session at 11 a.m., immediately following the Claiborne Parish NAACP Youth Council meeting at the Mayfield Alumni Building on Pearl Street in Homer. For more information, please contact Sadie Flucas at 318-927-6411.

 

CASA Car, Motorcycle Show set for October 13

CASA’s Second Annual Cruising for a Christmas Cause will be at the Factory Outlet Mall in Arcadia, off I-20, exit 69. Registration will be from 8:30 until 10:30 a.m., and the poker run will begin at 9 a.m. and go through 11 a.m. Classic and antique cars and trucks that are at least 25-years-old are eligible for entry in the show. All proceeds will go to CASA to help buy Christmas presents for abused and neglected children. For more information, please contact Deanna Curtis at 318-218-5068 or 318-263-2292 or email her at deannacurtis@vyjla.org.

 

Homer Christian Coalition to distribute food boxes October 15

The Homer Christian Coalition will distribute food boxes on the third Monday of each month. As they no longer make deliveries, please make arrangements to pick up your food boxes between the hours of 8 and 10:30 a.m.

 

Medicare Town Hall meeting set for October 16

A “Medicare and You 2013” town hall meeting will be at the Claiborne Parish Library, 909 Edgewood Drive, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Sponsored by the Caddo Parish Council on Aging, the guest speaker will be Irene Jackson, program manager. The meeting will cover Medicare, Medicaid, low income subsidy, Part D Enrollment, Medication Assistance, referrals and recommendations. For more information, please call 318-676-7900.

 

Chamber Pancake Breakfast set for October 18

The Claiborne Chamber of Commerce Pancake Breakfast will be from 6:30 until 8:30 a.m. Cost is $5 per meal, which includes pancakes and sausage. For more information, please call the Claiborne Chamber of Commerce at 318-927-3271.

 

Carrying Concealed Handgun Permit Class Oct 13th in Homer

A Carrying Concealed Handgun Permit Course, required for the Louisiana State Police Handgun Permit, will be conducted in Homer. Anyone wishing to register for this class may do so online at www.DefensiveTraining.us or by calling 318-225-1366, 318-927-5026 or or 318-268-5052 and request a registration form. The cost of the class is $50 per attendee. Information on submitting course fee by mail is on the registration form and if registering by mail, money orders or cash only for registration fee, no checks accepted and registration fee is not refundable. The course is from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., with the classroom session in the morning and range session in afternoon. Location of the classroom is the Homer Fire Department and range portion will at DWCC. Pre-registration is required and registration forms along with fee must be in by Wednesday, Oct 10. Certificates will be issued after completion of class along with applications for Carrying Concealed Handgun to the LA State Police. Applications may also be obtained by going to the Louisiana State Police website and clicking on the Carry Concealed Handgun section. For further information or questions, visit www.DefensiveTraining.us, Call 318-225-1366, 318-426-6631 or 318-268-5052.

 

Advanced Carrying Concealed Weapons Class - Oct 20th In Homer

Advanced Carrying Concealed Weapons Course, is slated for Saturday Oct 20th in Homer. The classroom session will be held at the Homer Fire Station training room from 8 until 10a.m., with the range course taking place at the DWCC firing range. Individuals who have completed a carrying concealed handgun class with Golden Eagle Training and Safety are eligible to attend the advanced class or anyone who has a current Carrying Concealed Handgun license. The advanced class covers the areas in the fundamentals of shooting, combat shooting, decision-making and other topics in self-defense with a firearm. Anyone wishing to register for this class may do so online at www.DefensiveTraining.us or by calling 318-225-1366, 318-927-5026 or 318-268-5052 and request a registration form. The cost of the class is $50 per attendee. Information on submitting course fee by mail is on the registration form and if registering by mail, money orders or cash only for registration fee, no checks accepted and registration fee is not refundable. The course is from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., with the classroom session in the morning and range session in afternoon. For further information or questions, visit www.DefensiveTraining.us, Call 318-225-1366, 318-426-6631 or 318-268-5052.

 

Haynesville Town Council to meet October 22

Due to a clerk’s conference and the Claiborne Parish Fair, the Haynesville Town Council monthly meeting has been rescheduled to October 22 at 6 p.m. The council will meet in council chambers, located behind City Hall. For more information, or for questions, please call their office at 318-624-0911.

 

Free Cancer Screening at Homer Hospital October 25

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Homer Memorial Hospital will be conducting free breast cancer screening mammograms on this day. To qualify, you must be 40 years of age or older, no insurance or very high deductible and not had a mammogram within one year. Call Adrienne Willis at 318-927-1400 for an appointment. These services are paid for by a federal grant.

 

Secretary of State to speak to Homer Lions Club October 25

The Homer Lions Club will meet at Nicky’s Mexican Restaurant at noon. Louisiana Secretary of State Tom Schedler will be the guest speaker. All members are encouraged to attend and bring a guest!

 

HMH Community Health Fair set for November 13

Homer Memorial Hospital and Regional Hospice are sponsoring a community health fair at 9 a.m. at Homer City Hall. Hamburgers, hot dogs and other foods will be available. Door prizes will be awarded. The public is invited to attend. For more information, please call Homer Memorial Hospital at 318-927-2024.

 

LA One Call Training set for November 15

The Town of Homer will host LA One Call Training from noon until 2 p.m. at Homer City Hall. The training will feature David Frey, LA One Call’s Damage Prevention Manager, and other pertinent speakers and sessions for public works employees and related staff members. Seating availability is 50 attendees. Please call Lisa Foster, town clerk, at 318-927-3555 to reserve slots for your employees.

 

 

McMullan Realty, Springhill - Announces Opening of Their New Website

 

Denny McMullan of McMullan Realty Company in Springhill, LA, announces the opening of their McMullan Realty - Springhill, LAre-designed website as of 2012-08-06, with all current listings now available at: www.McMullanRealty.com.

 

Whether you're looking to buy or sell a home, commercial or investment property, McMullan Realty Company can help. They take pride in taking the time to get to know each and every client individually - listening to their specific needs and wishes. They are ready to negotiate the best deals, determine your optimal selling price and provide you with all the necessary facts you need to make a confident, informed decision.

 

From the first walk-through to the signing of papers, McMullan Realty will be with you every step of the way. Their experienced agents are ready to help you achieve your real estate goals.

 

McMullan Realty Company was established in 1961 by Dennis and Evelyn McMullan. Continuously family owned and operated, McMullan Realty Company has specialized in REAL ESTATE SALES AND MARKETING in the North Webster Parish, Louisiana and Southwest Arkansas areas for more than 50-years.

 

Denny McMullan, broker at McMullan Realty, stated "We were looking for a web designer to re-build our existing site and someone that we could depend upon to maintain our site in a timely manner. After reviewing several area realtor sites, we came across Claiborne Parish web designer, Key-Comp Web Design, we visited the Key-Comp sites for Claiborne Parish realtors and were very impressed (JT Taylor Realty, Northest Properties & Toney Johnson Real Estate). We contacted Joel Ponder of Key-Comp Web Design, he subsequently submitted a very reasonable proposal for the design and maintenance of our site. We accepted the proposal and have been very pleased with the results. If any of you know anyone who wants a new website or has a site that is in need of a re-do, we strongly recommend Key-Comp. You can contact Joel via his new website at: www.KCWD.com."


Ford Museum Seeking Veterans' Photographs

The H.S. Ford Museum has received a grant from Entergy that will enable us to make its exhibits more interactive. Our first emphasis will focus on honoring our military veterans, especially those with a connection to North Central Louisiana. For this project, we are requesting the public's help in gathering photos, formal as well as candid photos that capture everyday life in the military. Artifacts and photos are needed from the Civil War era to the present. Items can be sent to the museum at or mailed to P.O. Box 157, Homer, LA 71040. The museum is opened Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 am to 4 pm for anyone wishing to deliver material in person.

 

Hilltop Campgrounds & RV Park announces opening of their website

HilltopCampgrounds.comHilltop Campgrounds & RV Park (Princeton/Haughton, LA) is proud to announce the opening of their website as of 06/10/2012, online at www.HilltopCampgrounds.com.


Hilltop Campgrounds and RV Park is a work-camper, family and pet friendly park located just minutes from I-20 and I-220. The park is always clean with on-site management and maintenance for a worry free stay. The rental prices include lot, electric, water, sewer and trash pickup.


The park is located less than five miles from Haughton and 3 minutes from I-20 (Haughton/Fillmore exit - Hwy 157 North), and just 10-15 minutes from all the Hottest Gaming Locations in Shreveport-Bossier.


The park is open to the public year round. Features include Fishing and Swimming in their 5 acre natural spring pond. hiking & biking nature trails and beautiful, peaceful & serene surroundings throughout the year.


The park owners stated that "We contracted a Claiborne Parish based website designer, Key-Comp Web Design, and are very pleased with the results and recommend their services to anyone needing a new website or a face-lift of an existing site . Key-Comp can be contacted via their website at www.KCWD.com."

 

 

Golden Eagle Training & Safety - New Website

Steve Risner (Homer, LA) and Butch Shaver (Shreveport, La) announce the opening of their new Golden Eagle Training & Safety website, now online at www.DefensiveTraining.us.

 

Golden Eagle Training & SafetyFor more than 18 years the founders of Golden Eagle Training & Saftey (GETS) have certified nearly a thousand Law Enforcement/Correctional Use of Force Instructors and certified over seven hundred civilians in Carry Concealed Handgun Classes for permits to carry concealed.

 

GETS offers Instructional/Certification courses for the General Public, Law Enforcement & Corrections, School Resource Officers & Staff, Churches, Organizations and Companies.

 

GETS training for the public includes: Carrying Concealed Handgun Permit Class, Personal Safety Course, Women’s Safety & Self-Defense Course, Sexual Harassment and Rape Prevention (known as SHARP), Weapon Retention & Disarming (if you carry a firearm, you need to know how to effectively retain it or disarm someone who has one), Escape & Evasion, and Advanced Carrying Concealed Handgun Courses.

 

Certification courses available for Law Enforcement and Correctional Agencies include: Defensive Tactics (DT), Impact Weapon (IW), Weapon Retention and Disarming (WRD), Ground Avoidance/Ground Escape (GAGE), Spontaneous Knife Defense (SKD), Inmate Control, and Pressure Point Control Tactic (PPCT).

 

For the educational arena (School Resource Officers & Staff) they offer: Safe Schools Resource Officer (SRO) Training & Certifcation, Basic & Instructor Certification Classes in Human Factor Research School Safety ( Bullying) & Healthy Children and Disruptive Student Management (DSM).

 

They have also held "Surviving a Critical Incident Courses" for churches in Bossier City and will be glad to do the same with any church in your area.

 

Steve Risner said "We have contracted Joel Ponder, long time resident of Claiborne Parish, and designer/webmaster of many of our local area websites, to rebuild our website and we are very pleased with the fine job he is doing for a very affordable price. If any of you know someone who wants to start a website or has one that needs a facelift, we strongly recommend Mr. Ponder. You can contact Joel via his new website at: www.KCWD.com."


Local CPA Signs On as ClaiborneOne Sponsor

The accounting firm of Steven J. Koskie, CPA LLC has signed on as a sponsor of the ClaiborneOne website.


Steven J Koskie CPA LLCSteve Koskie, Managing Member of the firm said, "Back in the fall, we decided we were going to enhance our presence on the internet. So many people now use the internet as a key way to get news and information. By improving our website and overall web presence, we felt we could achieve two important goals. They are, first, to be of more service to our existing clients and, second, to more effectively reach out to new clients."


After reviewing the web traffic statistics for ClaiborneOne the decision to become a sponsor was made. "I was surprised by the amount of web traffic that goes through the ClaiborneOne web site. ClaiborneOne provides a great service as a 24 hour a day clearinghouse of parish news and information that reaches literally around the world."


Steven J. Koskie CPA LLC is located at 417 North Main Street in Homer. The firm focuses on preparing personal income tax returns, business income tax returns, and bookkeeping/accounting services for business. The firm also provides a variety of financial planning services for individuals and consulting services for business.


"Our experience covers a broad horizon. We have a lot of experience in oil & gas as regards income tax, lease negotiations, and royalty/working interest accounting. We also are very engaged in agricultural endeavors like poultry farming, timber farming and cattle operations. Through the years, I've helped manage some very significant investment portfolios of stocks, bonds, and limited partnerships. When it comes to helping businesses, having 10 years experience as a controller and CFO for significant private companies gives me a unique hands-on perspective of what business owners face in their daily lives. I know their problems and opportunities because I've lived with the very things they deal with everyday. Plus the fact that I've dealt with the day-to-day business decisions of my own firm for a decade."


"We look forward to serving the citizens and businesses of Claiborne Parish and the surrounding area for many years to come. We have a vested interest in the growth of the area and work hard to provide a high quality service. This means much more than delivering a tax return or a set of books to a client. We have the privilege of helping people live their lives and manage their resources. That responsibility to our clients is why we say our income tax, accounting and consulting services require we make a point to 'Provide more than numbers on a page'."


J.T. Taylor RealtyJ.T. Taylor Realty/Dimex Sales - Now Online

J.T. Taylor Realty has provided Real Estate Sales and Buyer Representation in Homer, Haynesville and Claiborne Parish for Commercial, Residential and Timberland Properties since 1984.


With over 56 years experience in the Commercial and Home Markets, J.T. Taylor offers a wealth of knowledge To Help You Avoid the Pitfalls of Buying, Selling or Remodeling a property!


For over 10 years, Dimex Sales has offered a full line of Portable Buildings for Home, Home/Office, Construction Sites, and Storage needs.

 

DNG ConsultingDNG Consulting - Now Online

Based in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, DNG Consulting, LLC provides a wide range of consulting services to meet the needs of a variety of client types. DNG Consulting assists clients in Mergers & Acquisitions, Management Organization Study & Re-structuring, Project Management, Critical Path Recovery Scheduling, Construction Claims Analysis, Business Development, Professional/Technical Recruitment Services and Fuel Services.

 

Don Grimes, President of DNG Consulting, and wife Bea are long time Claiborne Parish residents. The Grimes' have been involved in promoting Claiborne Parish for many years.


 

Key-Comp Web Design Announces the Opening of their Redesigned Website

Key-Comp Web Design was originally established in 1980 as Key-Comp Computer Services. Providing computer programming and support services in Monroe, LA, Ouachita Parish, re-locating to Claiborne Parish in September of 1987.


Key-Comp 2012Since 1996, Key-Comp has provided web site design, hosting and maintenance to a variety of businesses and organizations, including those in Homer, Haynesville, Tulsa, Monroe, Shreveport, El Dorado, and Gibsland.


Key-Comp's services also include Print/Web Ad design, Business Card design, Logo design, software training, system analysis/purchasing, custom database programming and Special Event & Family Reunion Photography. Visit Key-Comp's Portfolio to view their work.


Key-Comp is operated by, long time Claiborne Parish residents, Joel Ponder & Pam Thompson-Ponder (Pet Pampering Grooming & Boarding) with photography and graphics design assistance by their sons, Homer High grads, TJ & Tanner.


Key-Comp designed many of our local sites including ClaiborneOne.org (which includes Claiborne Parish Police Jury, Town of Homer & Town of Haynesville), ClaiborneSheriff.org, Claiborne Chamber of Commerce, J.T.Taylor Realty & Dimex Sales, Northeast Properties, Toney Johnson Real Estate, Advertising Unlimited, and DNG Consulting. Key-Comp's Portfolio presents legacy/retired designs that include Allison Law Firm (Shreveport), Homer Memorial Hospital, Hall Boat Lifts, Speech Language Pathology & Associates and Gibsland Bank & Trust.


Key-Comp's new sites are produced using the most current & popular Content Management Systems (CMS) that will allow their clients to easily add and/or delete content. Key-Comp has built this owner friendly functionality (password protected & secure) into their sites for years, however almost all of their clients have opted to depend upon Key-Comp for maintenance and updates - Key-Comp says "(Concentrate on Your Business - We'll Handle the Web)".


Redesign projects now underway include Golden Eagle Training & Safety and McMullan Realty (Springhill).


For more information on Key-Comp's services visit www.KCWD.com.

 

 


Claiborne One Site Now Features Area Image Archive

Archives Now Online include:


Money Available for New or Expanding Businesses in Homer

The Claiborne Chamber of Commerce now has monies to lend through the Revolving Loan Program. Anyone who is interested in starting a business or enlarging an existing business within Claiborne Parish may be eligible. These funds were received from the USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program to assist small businesses and provide for jobs in Claiborne Parish. Loan preferences will be made on the basis of job creation. Further information may be obtained by contacting John Watson, Executive Director of the Claiborne Chamber of Commerce at (318) 927-3271. The Claiborne Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity provider. To file a complaint of discrimination write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave. S.W. Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).


Smoke Detectors For The Elderly Offered through TRIAD

TRIAD of Claiborne wants all seniors age 65 and above, to have a smoke detector. You may also qualify if you're disabled. Having a smoke detector can mean the difference of life or death. Smoke detectors are available without charge. If you don't have a smoke detector, call 927-2011.

 

  
 
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The Guardian-Journal
 
The Guardian-Journal
620 North Main  |  PO Box 119  |  Homer, La 71040
Phone 318-927-3541  |  Fax 318-927-3542

Co-Owners
Kathryn H. Hightower Hilda Spillers Estate

Geraldine H. Hightower
Publisher
Michelle Bates
Editor
Official Journal
  Claiborne Parish Police Jury, Town of Homer, Villages of Athens, Lisbon, Summerfield and Junction City, La.
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  Deadline for Advertisements and News Copy is Monday at 5 PM. Weddings and Engagements must be turned in for publication on the Friday prior to the desired publication date. Photographs must be in the newspaper office by 4 p.m. Friday, a $10.00 charge is placed on all photographs.
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