Water restrictions in Marshall, TX due to transmission line damage near East Texas
By: Ark-La-Tex Staff Writer
The City of Marshall has issued immediate water restrictions following significant damage to a key water transmission line serving the area. City officials confirmed the disruption occurred near a major utility corridor in East Texas and has affected the flow and availability of treated water to residents and businesses throughout the city.
According to the Marshall Public Works Department, the problem was discovered when crews noticed a sharp drop in water pressure late Sunday evening. Upon further investigation, they identified a structural failure in a primary transmission line, likely caused by shifting soil from recent heavy rains and aging infrastructure. City Manager Mark Rohr explained that although the damage is not catastrophic, the resulting strain on the water system requires immediate conservation measures until repairs are completed.
As a result, Marshall has enacted Stage 3 water restrictions. These include a ban on outdoor watering, car washing outside commercial facilities, and the filling of swimming pools or ornamental fountains. Businesses are being asked to limit water use where possible, and residents are encouraged to delay high-usage household activities such as laundry and dishwashing. Violations may result in warnings or fines depending on the severity and frequency of the offense.
Utility crews are currently working to assess the extent of the damage and begin replacement of the compromised pipe sections. While no exact repair timeline has been given, officials estimate it could take between seven and ten days, depending on weather conditions and the availability of materials. The city is coordinating with regional water suppliers and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to ensure safe water standards are upheld and that pressure levels remain consistent during repairs.
Hospitals, emergency services, and other critical facilities have been given priority access to water resources during this period. The city is also preparing temporary water distribution points for neighborhoods where water pressure may become too low. Schools, nursing homes, and food service businesses have been provided with water conservation and sanitation guidance to ensure safe operations continue.
Though residents have expressed frustration, many have responded positively to the city’s appeal for cooperation. City officials are offering daily updates via their website, social media, and local media partners. “We understand the inconvenience, but cooperation now will prevent a more serious emergency later,” said Cheryl Montgomery, Director of Public Works.
In the meantime, the city has launched an infrastructure review to determine whether other parts of the water system may be at risk, especially in light of population growth and weather-related stress. Once repairs are complete, recommendations for long-term infrastructure improvements will be presented to the City Council.
Residents looking for more information or tips on reducing water use can visit the city’s website at cityofmarshall.com/utilities or call the 24-hour information line at (903) 555-4400.
Attorney General scrutiny over the Sanders resolution
by: Dr. Kirkpatrick Williams
Louisiana AG Liz Murrill has launched an investigation into the Caddo Parish Commission for potentially violating the state's Open Meetings Law. The issue centers on a resolution that welcomed Senator Bernie Sanders to Shreveport on June 21, 2025, but was not listed on any publicly posted meeting agenda 24 hours prior
AG Murrill’s office emphasized: “They didn’t meet. That’s the whole problem.” At this time, there is no response from the Caddo Parish Commission.
State Grants and Scholarships Help Cover Career Training for CDL Drivers and Fiber Optic Technicians
By: D.D. Reese
The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana (UAHT) is offering state-funded training programs in Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) certification and fiber optic technology, aiming to equip students with skills for high-demand, high-wage careers. Thanks to the Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship and the Arkansas Office of Skills Development, eligible students can access these programs at reduced or no cost.
The CDL program, administered through the Arkansas Trucking Academy (ArkTA), prepares students for a professional driving career in as little as four weeks. Training includes classroom instruction, driving simulation, and hands-on, over-the-road experience. Tuition for the program is $3,000, with books included. Graduates earn their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and can step directly into jobs that pay an average of $50,000 to $70,000 annually, with opportunities for even more with experience or specialized routes. The Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship pays up to $800 for the truck driver training program.
The Fiber Optic Technician program, delivered in partnership with the Arkansas Fiber Academy, gives students the technical and hands-on skills needed to install, maintain, and troubleshoot fiber broadband networks. The nine-week evening course ends with eligibility for the Fiber Broadband Association OpTIC Path 3-year certification. Technicians entering the field can expect to earn $45,000 to $65,000 a year, with strong demand nationwide as broadband infrastructure continues to expand. The Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship pays up to $800 for the Fiber Optic Technician program. The program could also be free to eligible students through a grant from the Arkansas Office of Skills Development.
Both programs are short-term, hands-on, and designed to lead straight to employment in growing industries. With these grants and scholarships helping cover the cost, students can get started with little to no out-of-pocket expense.
For more information and eligibility requirements for the Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship, visit https://sams.adhe.edu/Scholarship/Details/AWC. For more information or to apply for either program, contact Akili Moses Israel at 870-722-8568 or akili.mosesisrael@uaht.edu.
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Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office to Host Citizens Academy
By: Ark-La-Tex Staff Writer
The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) is set to host its upcoming Citizens Academy, scheduled to run from July 1 through July 29. This program aims to foster stronger relationships between law enforcement and the community by providing residents with a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at the daily operations of the sheriff’s office.
Participants in the Citizens Academy will have the opportunity to learn about various aspects of law enforcement, including patrol procedures, criminal investigations, K-9 unit demonstrations, SWAT operations, and more. The academy is designed to educate citizens on how the sheriff’s office functions and the challenges officers face, while also offering insights into crime prevention and public safety initiatives.
The program typically includes classroom instruction, interactive sessions, and hands-on experiences, allowing attendees to engage directly with CPSO personnel and equipment. Graduates of the academy gain a better understanding of law enforcement’s role in the community and are encouraged to become advocates for safety and cooperation.
The Citizens Academy is open to all Caddo Parish residents who are interested in deepening their knowledge of the sheriff’s office and contributing to a safer community. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply early, as spots are limited. For more information or to register, residents can contact the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Governor Jeff Landry Speaks in Bossier City
By: Dr. Kirkpatrick Williams
On June 25, 2025, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry visited Bossier City to announce significant legislative reforms aimed at reducing state government size and promoting individual self-sufficiency. The event took place at the Cyber Innovation Center, where Landry signed four bills into law, including House Bills 617 and 624, which he described as pivotal steps toward transforming Louisiana's welfare system.
Governor Landry emphasized that these reforms would shift the state's focus from dependency to independence, aligning with his administration's goal of "reining in big government." He highlighted the Louisiana Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team's efforts in identifying and eliminating fraud within Medicaid and SNAP benefits, leading to over $70 million in savings. The governor also announced plans to remove ineligible recipients, such as deceased individuals and out-of-state residents, from welfare rolls.
The newly signed legislation also includes Senate Bill 59, known as the REINS Act, which imposes stricter oversight on state regulatory agencies. Under this act, major regulations must undergo public scrutiny and legislative review before taking effect, aiming to prevent overregulation and promote economic growth.
Governor Landry's visit underscores his commitment to reshaping Louisiana's social programs and regulatory framework to foster a more efficient and self-reliant state.
Volunteers for Youth Justice Named Beneficiary of Artport 2025
By: D.D. Reese
Volunteers for Youth Justice has been selected as the official beneficiary of Artport 2025, the annual arts festival held in Shreveport-Bossier. This partnership highlights the festival’s commitment to supporting community organizations that make a meaningful impact in the region.
Artport 2025, known for showcasing local and regional artists through exhibitions, performances, and interactive installations, will donate a portion of its proceeds to Volunteers for Youth Justice. The organization is dedicated to providing mentorship, resources, and support to at-risk youth, aiming to reduce juvenile delinquency and promote positive development.
Festival organizers expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting that the cause aligns with Artport’s mission to enrich the cultural and social fabric of the community. By directing funds and attention to Volunteers for Youth Justice, the festival hopes to raise awareness of youth issues and encourage greater community involvement.
Volunteers for Youth Justice representatives said the partnership will help expand their programs and outreach efforts, enabling them to serve more young people in need. They also plan to engage with the festival’s attendees through workshops and presentations during Artport, further strengthening the connection between art and social impact.
Artport 2025 is scheduled to take place later this summer across multiple venues in Shreveport-Bossier, promising a vibrant celebration of creativity while fostering meaningful community support through this new partnership.
