At the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury meeting on July 3, 2025, a heartfelt tribute was paid to Thomas Hafer, the retiring Director of Communications and Media, marking the end of his two-decade tenure with the parish. The meeting opened with a presentation of a retirement certificate, celebrating Hafer's significant contributions to the community and his unwavering dedication to public service.

Hafer, who began his career in media at a young age, has been a vital figure in Calcasieu Parish since 1988. His journey from a radio station in Selma, Alabama, to becoming a key player in local communications was highlighted by various speakers, who praised his ability to connect the parish with the media, especially during crises like Hurricane Rita. His leadership transformed the government access channel into a model for effective communication nationwide.

During his farewell, Hafer expressed deep gratitude for the support he received from the police jury and his colleagues, emphasizing the rewarding nature of his role in providing comfort and information to the public during challenging times. He fondly recalled the relationships he built and the memories created over the years, including humorous anecdotes from his time covering McNeese State University sports.

As he steps into retirement, Hafer reassured attendees that he would continue to be the voice of the McNeese Cowboys, ensuring his legacy in local sports broadcasting remains intact. The meeting concluded with well-wishes for his future endeavors, underscoring the impact he has made on the community and the void his departure will leave.