Back-to-school tax holiday remains absent

News

By Misty Castile The Center Square on July 15, 2026

The seven-year suspension of Louisiana’s former sales tax holiday ended last year, but the back-toschool exemption has not returned. Louisiana families are entering the 2026 school year without the tax break while paying a 5% state sales tax rate approved by lawmakers in 2024.

News

OLLA MILL REOPENS

By Craig Franklin Editor

July 15, 2026

Now Olla Hardwood The Town of Olla and LaSalle Parish received great news last week as it was learned the hardwood mill in Olla had reopened. The mill...

News

TOP GROWING SCHOOL SYSTEM: LaSalle Parish #6 In State

By Craig Franklin Editor

July 15, 2026

The LaSalle Parish School System continues to lead the state in testing growth as revealed last week by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE). ...

News

Riser proving leadership abilities in House

By Craig Franklin Editor

July 15, 2026

As a 20-year veteran of public service, beginning in 2008 in the Louisiana Senate and now as District 20 State Representative, Neil Riser’s experience...

Obituaries

J.W. Thomas

July 15, 2026

John “J.W.” Walter Thomas, 81, of the Nebo community, Jena, passed peacefully from this life and entered his eternal home on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, ...

News

Lester Francis to seek Jena Alderman re-election

July 15, 2026

Lester Francis of Jena announced this week his intention to seek re-election for Town of Jena Alderman during the November 3, 2026, election. He has s...

Obituaries

Eva McDowell

July 15, 2026

Eva Jeanell Bordelon McDowell, 86, of Jena, went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Services were held at 11 a.m., Monday, July 6, 2026,...