News

Criminal court was a central topic of conversation at the meeting of the East Carroll Parish Police Jury ways and means committee earlier this month. So far, year-to-date, the jury has transferred $21,500 into the criminal court’s fund to cover shortfalls and give some cushion. According to accountant Cindy Thomason, this should sustain them for two to three months.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that, effective immediately, a section of LA 581 in East Carroll Parish is closed until further notice. All vehicles will need to utilize an alternate route.

More than 52 families, which included 75 children, were served during Together for Hope’s diaper and personal products giveaway last week. A constant stream of people during the event – called Necessary Essentials – were given age-appropriate diapers and feminine hygiene products after showing proof of need, such as a SNAP card or benefits award letter.

The East Carroll Parish Hospital Board of Commissioners took care of a long agenda in short order last Thursday evening. President Barbara McDaniel called her first full meeting to order and after roll call, began their agenda with a discussion of the patient room renovation project.

In the May 1, 2025, edition of the East Carroll Banner, it was reported that Wydett Williams Jr. had made East Carroll history as the first player to sign with an SEC team. Since then we have learned of several others that signed. While Williams was the first 21st century player, in 1952, Leon Caldwell “Buddy” Harbin, Jr. signed with Ole Miss. Harbin was the number one football player coming out of high school, and was expected to sign with LSU, but chose to accept Ole Miss’s scholarship offer. In 1964, James H. Gilfoil and Tim Terral both signed with LSU. Gilfoil played one year as a freshman and Terral never saw any playing time, but they were both part of the team. And in 1970, Joe Kennedy signed to play with Mississippi State. We certainly did not mean to deprecate the pride this parish has in the accomplishments of these gentlemen. And if there are others, please let us know. In the meantime, we will continue to follow the careers of our college athletes with pride in their accomplishments.

Lekeisha Lucas.

Grace Malin Batton, daughter of Jeff Batton and Sherrer and Christopher McKenzie, was recentlynamedamember of Phi Sigma Theta National Honor Society at the University of Alabama. Phi Sigma Theta is a national honor society dedicated to recognizing and rewarding academic achievement in undergraduates.

Arrests as of May 20, 2025: East Carroll Parish Sheriff’s Office: 5/15/25 – Melonie Davis, 35, charged with simple criminal damage to property. Bond $600.

Delta Bank’s Josh Payne.