News

Illinois men accused of bombing mosque

CHICAGO (AP) — Three Illinois men are accused of bombing a mosque in suburban Minneapolis in an attempt to scare Muslims into leaving the United States, authorities said.

The men allegedly traveled some 500 miles (805 kilometers) from a rural farming community to carry out the Aug. 5 attack, which caused a damaging fire at the Dar Al-Farooq Islamic Center in Bloomington, Minnesota. No one was hurt.

Prosecuting more who lie to buy guns could strain resources

WASHINGTON (AP) — A Trump administration plan to crack down on people who lie to buy guns faces a giant hurdle: It relies on federal agents and prosecutors who are already overwhelmed with other responsibilities.

Prosecutors and officials from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives have historically preferred to use their limited resources to deal with violent crimes rather than aggressively pursue people who give false information on background check forms. Lying on the forms is a felony, and prosecutors sometimes struggle to win convictions.

Home sales dip gives renovators, appliance sellers a boost

NEW YORK (AP) — A slowdown in home sales is creating opportunities for small businesses like home renovators and appliance dealers.

Business is up at Brad Beldon’s home exterior renovation company, which does roofing, windows, siding and other work in 15 markets across the country. Many of Beldon’s customers are homeowners who aren’t selling because they can’t find other houses they like and can afford.

PA race tighter-than-tight; Dem claims win, GOP hangs in

MT. LEBANON, Pa. (AP) — A razor’s edge separated Democrat Conor Lamb and Republican Rick Saccone early Wednesday in their closely watched special election in Pennsylvania, where a surprisingly strong bid by first-time candidate Lamb severely tested Donald Trump’s sway in a GOP stronghold.

Lamb claimed victory before exuberant supporters early Wednesday as the number of votes still to be counted dwindled in a contest that has drawn national attention as a bellwether for the midterm elections in November when the Republican Party’s House and Senate majorities are at risk.

LAPD, JDSO talk gun safety with students

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The topic of guns in homes and being brought to schools is one that is being talked about more and more around the United States and also the world. Recent events have brought tragedy to cities around the world and is making this a hot topic.

New Lake Arthur Police Chief, Kobi Turner, decided to make and effort to speak to the youth of Lake Arthur and educate them about gun safety as well as consequences of bringing a gun to school.

Silly idea

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Every seasoned teacher knows that it’s hard to keep kids focused and on track in the classroom once spring arrives. With everyone counting down to summer break, teacher have to dig deep into their box of tricks to come up with creative ideas to keep the kids learning and achieving goals.

Third grade English and Language Arts (ELA) teacher at Lake Arthur Elementary School (LAES), Allie Breaux, is facing this struggle in her classroom. With end of semester exams on the agenda in her classroom, Breaux came up with a cheap and easy incentive to get the students to do their best.

Elton hears trash complaints

Council votes to change garbage pickup day

ELTON - Resident’s complaints about recent unsatisfactory garbage collection service from Republic Servives were addressed at a meeting here Monday.

The council voted to move garbage pickup day here from Tuesday to Wednesday effective April 4.

Elton Mayor Tony Laughlin said residents have not been content with their trash pickup service as of late.

Extra helping

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Residents of Jennings who say “Thank you, ma’am” may instead of just being polite soon be referring to the town’s new meal delivery charity program.

Mother’s Apron Meal Ministry, or MAMM began cooking and delivering meals to elderly people who are unable to cook for themselves in Jennings last week.

The spatula-wielding mastermind behind the new organization Linda Terrebonne, 68, said she was inspired to start the program when she read an article in Jennings Daily News about a similar program in Lake Arthur.

PRIME TIME READING

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Students from across the parish gathered Monday evening at Jennings Elementary to take part in the Prime Time Reading series, which encourages children to read and sends them home with a new book at the end of every event.

Area author writes novel based in JDP

A novel detailing a serial killer loose in a fictional version of Jeff Davis Parish was released recently.

The book entitled “The Sound of Southern Rainbows,” was penned by Lake Charles native Jace Douglas Johnson who said the book is a testament to how he feels about the area and the people who call it home.