News

The Jeff Davis Parish School Board voted 5–3 Thursday to give certified employees $500 more than support personnel in its first sales-tax stipend distribution, despite emotional appeals from employees seeking equal payments.

The Jennings City Council approved a resolution this week supporting an LFT Fiber funding proposal that could expand high-speed internet access and provide a backup connection for the city’s existing service.

(The Center Square) — Louisiana lawmakers are expected to have an additional $565 million to spend on debt payments, infrastructure improvements and other one-time expenses after state officials reported a projected budget surplus Thursday.

Our Savior’s Church Jennings will host “Bless the Block” on Saturday at 11 a.m. at Marcus Cain Memorial Park, offering free food and an opportunity for neighbors to connect.

The Louisiana Wildlife Federation is urging residents, businesses and building owners to turn off or dim nonessential lights at night to help protect migratory birds passing through the state this fall.

LAKE ARTHUR — Retired educator and school administrator Donna Woods has announced her candidacy for the District 2 seat on the Jeff Davis Parish School Board, citing her experience in education and lifelong ties to the community.

District Attorney Lauren Heinen is running for reelection in the 31st Judicial District for her second term. Elected in a special election in March 2022, Heinen’s administration has delivered tough-on-crime prosecution, overhauled court operations, and maintained strict fiscal discipline across Jefferson Davis Parish. “When I took office, I promised to enforce the law, hold criminals accountable, and put public safety first,” said Heinen. “True law-andorder leadership isn’t just about making promises. It’s about getting real results. We’ve proven a rural parish can modernize its justice system, aggressively prosecute dangerous criminals, invest in local youth, and protect taxpayers all at the same time.” Since taking office, Heinen’s administration has transformed the parish’s legal system into an efficient, victim-focused operation. Key accomplishments under the Heinen administration include:

(The Center Square) — Louisiana has received federal approval to use Medicaid funding for certain health services during the 60 days before eligible incarcerated individuals leave prison or jail, with an initial launch planned for early 2027.

ELTON — Cynthia Kay Hebert, known to many residents as “Sister Kay,” has announced her candidacy for mayor of Elton, citing financial recovery, public safety and infrastructure improvements as her priorities.