The Smith family is pleased to announce an exciting new chapter for the Ashley OUTLET in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Effective immediately, Dane Terrell and his trusted Ivan Smith team will assume responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the store.

Dane brings with him a proven ability to connect with people and lead with integrity—a combination that aligns perfectly with the values our family business was built on. We have a high degree of confidence in the future of our Ashley OUTLET under his leadership.

With this change, customers can expect an even more seamless shopping experience across both of our Natchitoches locations. Shoppers will now be able to work with their favorite salespeople at either store, continuing the relationships they’ve built over the years.

In addition, we are proud to continue offering the in-store financing options that our community has trusted and relied on for generations—now available at the Ashley OUTLET as well.

We are deeply thankful for the continued support of the Natchitoches community. Your loyalty has allowed us to grow and serve in new ways, and we look forward to this exciting next step together

 

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Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a fatal crash on Aug. 26 around 9:40 pm at the intersection of Progress Church Road and WPA Road. This crash claimed the life of 28-year-old Victoria Grantham of Pleasant Hill.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2025 Kia Seltos, driven by Grantham, was traveling south on WPA Road. For reasons still under investigation, Grantham failed to stop at the intersection, which caused the vehicle to leave the roadway and sequentially impact a tree.

Grantham, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on-scene. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.

While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, distracted and inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in our state. Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to stay alert while driving. A lapse in one’s awareness can have deadly consequences.

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The Many Police Department is urging parents and guardians to talk with their children about the dangers of playing on or near train tracks.

According to officials, trains require significant distance to come to a complete stop — in some cases, up to a mile, even after impact. This means that by the time a train’s engineer sees someone on the tracks, it may already be too late to avoid a tragedy.

Authorities stress that railways are not safe places to walk, play, or take shortcuts, and trespassing on railroad property is not only dangerous but also illegal.

“Children often underestimate how quickly a train can approach and how long it takes to stop,” the department stated. “We encourage parents to have this conversation to help prevent avoidable accidents.”

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The Many Police Department is urging residents to lock their vehicles and secure valuables after two attempted thefts were reported.

According to authorities, both incidents involved unlocked vehicles, making them easy targets for would-be thieves.

In the first case, a vehicle owner spotted an individual sitting inside their car, causing the suspect to flee the scene before any theft occurred.

The second incident initially resulted in a stolen vehicle; however, a BOLO (Be On the Lookout) alert issued by Many PD led to a quick interception by Natchitoches Police Department less than an hour later.

The suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.

Evidence was collected from both scenes as the investigation continues.

“Do not leave valuables in your vehicle and make sure your vehicle is locked,” Many PD warned in a statement, emphasizing that unlocked cars remain prime targets for opportunistic theft.

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Paid Editorial Feature – The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the Journal.

Last month, OnPath Federal Credit Union agreed to buy Heritage Bank of St. Tammany in Covington, Louisiana, a century-old institution with deep local roots. The deal was hailed by OnPath CEO Jared Freeman, who praised Heritage’s “unwavering commitment to the local community.” But what Freeman failed to mention is that the acquisition will rob that community of a critical source of revenue.

Because OnPath is a credit union and thus tax-exempt, the deal means that St. Tammany Parish will lose a reliable stream of tax payments. Those dollars help fund schools, pay essential public servants like police officers and firefighters, and support other vital public services across the parish. Once the acquisition is finalized, that revenue will disappear, and the burden of making up the difference will fall squarely on the shoulders of local taxpayers.

The example of OnPath in Louisiana illustrates a much bigger problem across the country: credit unions are no longer the small, member-focused institutions they were established to be. Many have grown into large financial operations, similar to banks, all while enjoying tax-exempt status. Lawmakers must investigate whether credit unions’ tax-exempt status is still necessary in light of their significant growth, which is ultimately leaching revenue from state and local governments and setting the stage for higher taxes on local communities.

The situation in Louisiana is not the first. Texas Dow Employees Credit Union (TDECU) had planned to acquire Sabine Bank and Trust, which is based in Many, Louisiana. Although TDECU ultimately backed away from the acquisition, it underscores the fact that credit unions have strayed far from the original mission Congress envisioned when it exempted them from most federal, state, and local taxes under the Federal Credit Union Act. It’s time for Congress to revisit whether the tax breaks are still justified.

Credit unions like TDECU have grown into large financial institutions by leveraging taxpayer subsidies. Far from its founding mission to serve the residents of Lake Jackson, Texas, TDECU now serves over 380,000 members across the state. Ending 2024 with $4.8 billion in total assets, TDECU’s services have widened to include wealth management investment products through its partnership with LPL Financial, which they even acknowledge as being a conflict of interest. The growth doesn’t stop there. Credit unions are buying community banks at a time when bank consolidation and burdensome regulations are putting extreme pressure on banks’ bottom lines. The current regulatory environment and credit union acquisitions are exacerbating bank consolidation. In fact, data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) shows that the number of community banks dropped by 46% over the last two decades, falling from 7,620 in 2003 to 4,129 in 2023. Credit unions are thriving, and skirting taxes while community banks are getting squeezed.

One negative outcome of tax-exempt credit unions acquiring community banks is that local and state governments lose revenue. This essential tax revenue helps fund local schools, projects, and infrastructure. The state of Louisiana has a bank shares tax that funds local communities, but when a credit union acquires a bank, it eliminates that source of revenue and results in less funding for local services. The shortfall in revenue could compel a parish to raise taxes on households to maintain a balanced budget. According to the Tax Foundation, “since 2011, more than 100 credit union–bank acquisition deals have been announced across the country.” Credit unions get to grow and avoid paying taxes, while American households across the country are getting forced to foot the bill at the end of the day.

Americans expect transparency, safeguards, and a level playing field from banks. These same principles should apply to credit unions. This is not about eliminating credit unions; it is about accountability and ensuring the law matches credit unions’ behavior. In an era where credit unions operate more like large financial institutions and less like community-oriented lenders, Congress should conduct oversight hearings and reexamine whether their tax-exempt status still aligns with their actions today. Louisiana taxpayers, in towns like Many and Covington, and in parishes around the state, should not have to pay more taxes because the law, as currently written, allows credit unions to exploit their tax loophole.

Ken Hale is the President & Chief Executive Officer of BOM Bank

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The survey was conducted from August 11, 2025 to August 15, 2025 at 7 p.m. Friday.

The survey aimed to gather feedback from our readers in North and Central Louisiana to the Parish Journals (Parish Journal of Louisiana) regarding their plans to purchase a vehicle in the next four (4) months

SURVEY: How likely are you to purchase a new or used vehicle in the next 4 months?

Total number of surveys submitted:	6,285
Less the number of surveys removed due to irregularities (See Below):	727
TOTAL SURVEYS COMPLETED USED IN THIS ANALYSIS:	5,558
Number of surveys stating they will buy a car or truck within the next 4 months:	993
Number of surveys stating they will pay cash:	270
Number of surveys stating they will need financing:	480
Number of surveys stating they have not decided:	243
Number of surveys stating they will buy a new car (gas)	165
Number of surveys stating they will buy a new truck/SUV (gas)	315
Number of surveys stating they will buy a used car (gas)	225
Number of surveys stating they will buy a used truck/SUV (gas)	288

Irregularities

Outside the State of Louisiana – Entries outside the State boundaries were excluded from the survey based on IP addresses.

Duplicate entries – Entries with the same IP address and MAC address were removed.

Masked/Hidden entries – Masked or hidden IP address entries were deleted.

Editor’s Note: Historically, some participants have attempted to influence our survey results. By removing irregularities, we attempt to ensure that uncaught entries with irregularities remain statistically insignificant. 

This survey provides an overview of Parish Journal readers in the State of Louisiana. It is not a scientific survey.

Parish Journals: Avoyelles, Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, DeSoto, Grant, Jackson,  LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Red River, Sabine, Vernon, Webster and Winn

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Growing up there’ve been all kinds of jobs I’ve had; some I hated and a few I really enjoyed. As a teenager, I worked part time for a parcel shipping company, a lumber yard, summer baseball leagues, worked two summers for Brown & Root Construction and two summers for the Texas Highway Department.

Each of these jobs taught me different things that would benefit me later in life. So many lessons can be learned through working and holding down a job, especially at an early age.

Today, I want to recognize a group of people who deserve a lot more respect than what they are given — game wardens!

It takes a special person to be a game warden. These men and women who take on the job of policing our land and waterways are a special breed, and in many cases never get the credit they deserve.

Talk about a thankless job, these folks do what very few want to do. It’s their job to enforce the rules and regulations of the hunting and fishing world. They go through intense training and schooling to become a certified fish and wildlife official.

They are constantly dealing with the public, who in many cases are carrying weapons. They must have good people skills allowing them to deal with some of the toughest people on earth, hunters and fishermen.

Most of the time as they approach people on the water or in the woods, they are often met by disgruntled anglers or hunters aggravated about being checked.

They have to deal with people with attitudes, who give one excuse after another why they don’t have the necessary licenses, or decided not to follow the rules and regulations that are in place.

Game wardens too often deal with folks who would rather lie than tell the truth. Many times, the wardens must go above and beyond the call of duty, like being first responders to help and rescue people after a hurricane or any type of natural disaster.

They are the guys who must retrieve our loved ones who may have drowned while fishing or been shot in hunting accident. This is a job very few people would ever want.

Growing up in East Texas and now living in Louisiana, I’ve been blessed to get to hunt and fish all across this great country. Hunting and fishing are privileges, not rights, and these men and women we call game wardens do a great job at making sure we are safe.

Today, I want to salute those who carry the badge while patrolling our lakes and waterways making sure the rules and regulations of the hunting and fishing world are enforced.

The next time you see or have some kind of interaction with a game warden, make sure to tell them, “Thank you,” and share that you appreciate the job they do. They’re not the enemy and are not out there just to write tickets. They are out there to keep you safe and enforce the law.

‘Til next week, good luck and stay safe while hunting or fishing. Make sure to follow the rules and regulations set by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries in your state.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com.

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SABINE PARISH, La. – Families in the Toledo Bend area are invited to a special day of fishing, fun, and community as C.A.S.T. for Kids hosts a free event for children with special needs on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Lost Frontier RV Park, 360 Frontier Drive, Hemphill, TX.
The event will run from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and will include a morning of fishing, followed by lunch and a special awards ceremony.
Each participating child will receive:
Peer interaction opportunities
Fishing guidance and basic techniques
A fishing fun pack including a rod and reel, tackle box, T-shirt, hat, and photo plaque
Registration & Requirements
Pre-registration is required, and space is limited.
Participants must be at least 6 years old.
The event is accessible for all special needs.
A parent or guardian must attend with each child.
The event is free of charge, and lunch will be provided for participants and their guardians.
For more information or to register, contact Event Coordinator Jaime West at (936) 404-2283 or email toledobend@castforkids.org. Registration can also be completed online at castforkids.org/event/toledobend.
C.A.S.T. for Kids is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children with special needs, supporting their families, and strengthening communities through the sport of fishing.

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If you’ve ever tried to order at a fast food drive-thru with a speaker that sounds like it was built during the Tower of Babel incident, you know the struggle. You pull up, hungry and hopeful, only to be greeted by a garbled voice that sounds like it’s speaking in tongues—but not the kind Paul was talking about.

“Whaaaat can Iiii get foooorrrr youuuuu todaaaay?”

You squint at the menu like it’s Leviticus, trying to decipher what’s actually available. You speak clearly, slowly, and with conviction: “I’d like a number three with no onions, a medium fry, and a Coke.”

There’s a pause. Then the voice replies, “So that’s a number two, extra onions, large fry, and a Diet Dr. Pepper?”

You sigh. “No, that’s not what I said.”

And suddenly, you realize this feels oddly familiar. Like prayer. Like trying to hear from God.

Let’s be honest—sometimes hearing from God feels like trying to decode a drive-thru speaker in a thunderstorm. You pray with all your heart, asking for guidance, clarity, maybe even a sign. And what you get back feels… fuzzy.

You ask, “Lord, should I take this job?”

And you hear, “Take the jog.”

Jog? Is this about exercise? Is this metaphorical? Is God telling me to run away from the job? Or toward it? Is this a Jonah moment or a Joshua moment?

You start Googling biblical references to jogging. You ask three friends, your pastor, and maybe even your dog. Still unclear.

Drive-thrus are designed for speed but rarely deliver clarity. Similarly, we often approach God like He’s a spiritual vending machine. We want fast answers, clear signs, and instant peace. But God’s not in the business of fast food theology.

He’s more like a slow-cooked brisket—rich, layered, and worth the wait.

Sometimes we get frustrated because we think we’re doing everything right. We’re praying, reading Scripture, even fasting (which, ironically, makes the drive-thru even more tempting). But God’s voice isn’t always loud or obvious. Remember Elijah? God wasn’t in the wind, the earthquake, or the fire. He was in the whisper.

And let’s be real: whispers don’t work well through drive-thru speakers.

The key difference? God’s not garbled. We are.

The static isn’t on His end—it’s on ours. We’ve got spiritual interference: anxiety, distractions, expectations, and sometimes, just plain hunger. We’re trying to hear divine direction while scrolling Instagram, binge-watching Netflix, and mentally calculating how many calories are in a Chick-fil-A milkshake.

But God’s voice requires quiet. Stillness. Intentional listening. It’s not about shouting into the speaker and hoping for the best—it’s about pulling forward, parking, and spending time in His presence.

So next time you’re in a drive-thru, waiting for your order and wondering if they got it right, take a moment to laugh—and reflect. Hearing from God isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. He’s not a fast food employee trying to rush you through. He’s a loving Father who wants relationship, not just requests.

And unlike the drive-thru, He never gets your order wrong.

So breathe. Listen. And maybe skip the onions. Just in case.

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BOM Bank supports the Florien High School Varsity Cheerleaders! Pictured are Abby Kennedy, Emmalynne Lee, Vivi Graves, Kaylee Chreene, Paig Handy, Brylee Nichols, and BOM’s Lance Rivers.

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In 2006, 28-year-old Army Specialist Todd Shriver was just one of many soldiers fighting in Iraq against Saddam Hussein’s regime. Todd and other soldiers in his unit were tasked with clearing buildings of enemy insurgents in the city of Ramadi, but the work was slow. The soldiers listened for any movement in the room to be cleared. If they heard nothing, the soldiers took a quick peak into a room, with a mirror if one was available, to check for any signs of obvious danger such as enemy soldiers or explosives. They could be hiding anywhere. Then, the soldiers cautiously and slowly walked or crawled through the doorway with their weapons at the ready. Once a room was cleared, they repeated the process on a slow, seemingly endless cycle. If they failed to notice a tripwire, just one…BOOM!

Enemy soldiers had set booby traps in many of the buildings. The explosives were triggered by nearly invisible trip wires. The various branches of the military had spent an untold amount of money searching for a practical solution for finding these tripwires, but none of their ideas became standard-issue equipment. Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Garver, a U.S. military spokesman in Baghdad, explained that soldiers often have to improvise on the battlefield and that commanders are given money to purchase nonstandard supplies. During the war in Iraq, soldiers bolted scrap metal to vehicles in what they called “Hillbilly Armor.” Troops removed old bulletproof windshields from damaged vehicles and attached them to working military vehicles to provide extra protection to gunners. Medics used tampons to plug bullet holes until the wounded soldiers could be transported from the battlefield to medical facilities. Soldiers used condoms over the muzzles of their rifles to keep sand out.

With no clear solution to easily locating tripwires, Todd and his fellow soldiers continued the slow process of clearing buildings. One day in October 2006, Todd was assisting some Marines in clearing a building. It was pretty much the same process of listen and look. Then, the Marine did something Todd was not expecting. He pulled out an aerosol can and sprayed its contents through the doorway. Todd was curious about the Marine’s action, but the soldiers knew to keep quiet. After clearing a few rooms in the same manner, the Marine took out the aerosol can and sprayed it as he had through the other doorways. This time, something different happened. The contents that spewed from the can clung to a nearly invisible thread which spanned the doorway. With a quick push of the can’s nozzle, the soldiers located a practically invisible tripwire that could have been deadly.

Todd requested cans of the product, but none could be found in Iraq. The product was plentiful in the United States, so Todd turned to his mother, Marcelle Shriver. On a telephone call, Todd told her what the product was and how they could use it if they had it. Todd’s mother sprung into action. She sent her son a few cans of the spray, but they needed more. With the help of her church, Todd’s mother sent him a few more dozen cans. Word spread quickly about the need and manufacturers joined in the cause. Within a year, Todd’s mother had sent more than 80,000 cans of the spray to soldiers in Iraq. Todd’s mother was collecting the spray cans, not from hardware stores, but from party supply stores. You see, the product in the aerosol cans that has saved countless lives by making the invisible tripwires visible was a silly solution called Silly String.

Sources:

1. “A Serious Use For Silly String,” December 6, 2005, CBS News, accessed August 17, 2025, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/a-serious-use-for-silly-string/.

2. Mel Evans, “Silly String care packages sent to troops in Iraq,” October 15, 2007, NBC News, accessed August 17, 2025, https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna21309380.

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The town of Zwolle is gearing up to celebrate one of its most anticipated traditions, the Zwolle Tamale Fiesta, set for October 9–11, 2025, at the Zwolle Festival Grounds. The three-day event will feature live music, contests, food, parades, and cultural showcases honoring the town’s rich history and traditions.

Pre-Fiesta Events:

Festivities begin early with the Fiesta Poster Unveiling on Thursday, September 11, followed by the First Lady & King’s Gathering and Fiesta Trail Ride on Saturday, October 4. A Fiesta Royal Mass at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7.

Thursday, October 9 — Kick-Off:

The official fiesta opens with Senior Citizen Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., including bingo, lunch, and door prizes. Festival gates open at 4 p.m. with $2 admission. Opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. will present Fiesta Royalty, recognize dignitaries, and showcase special entertainment. Music kicks off at 7:30 p.m. with the Next of Kin Band.

Friday, October 10 — Music and Fun:

The day begins with a Third Grade Educational Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gates reopen at 4 p.m. with $5 admission. Evening entertainment includes performances by Herry Reggans & The Louisiana Side Men (4–5:30 p.m.), Lucas Jagneaux and the Road Show (6–7:30 p.m.), and Horace Trahan and the Ossun Express (8–11 p.m.).

Saturday, October 11 — Fiesta Day:

Fiesta Saturday kicks off with a 5K Run at 8 a.m., followed by the Parade at 10 a.m. and a Treasure Hunt for a $500 savings bond. Festival gates open at 8 a.m. with $10 admission. The day is packed with activities including:

Midwest Rides & Concessions (11 a.m.)
Toledo Cruisers Car Club Show (11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.)
Tamale Eating Contest (11:15 a.m.)
Spanish Costume Contest (12 p.m.)
Arm Wrestling Contest (12:30 p.m.)
Tamale Judging (1 p.m.)
Mud Bog Competition (2 p.m.) with special tent and cooler fees

Live music will run throughout the afternoon and evening with performances by PineKnotz Band, Landry & Company Band, Ronnie Anderson with Raven, One Trick Pony, and Shadow Road closing out the night.
The Zwolle Tamale Fiesta offers tamales, carnival rides, concessions, souvenirs, vendors, and a celebration of community pride.

For more details, visit zwolletamalefiesta.com.

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On August 27, fans and music historians alike pause to mark a milestone in rock history: the release of Pearl Jam’s debut album, Ten. Dropping on this date in 1991, Ten would prove foundational to the rise of grunge music, shaping the sound—and the spirit—of a generation.

Though Pearl Jam wasn’t the first grunge band to emerge from Seattle, Ten thrust them into the spotlight with raw emotion and powerful anthems. Tracks like “Alive,” “Even Flow,” and “Jeremy” weren’t just radio hits; they became rallying cries for disaffected youth across the country. “Jeremy” also earned Grammy nods for both Best Rock Song and Best Hard Rock Performance—signaling both commercial and critical acclaim.

The album’s impact was nothing short of seismic. Certified 13× Platinum by the RIAA, Ten remained on the Billboard 200 chart for nearly five years, giving it one of the longest chart runs for any rock record—a clear testament to its staying power in a volatile music landscape.

The timing of Ten’s release was crucial. The early ’90s were a turning point for rock, as the glossy excess of the ’80s gave way to grunge’s gritty realism. Pearl Jam’s sound—gritty yet melodic, emotional yet restrained—struck a chord in that transition. Ten anchored the grunge movement alongside albums like Nirvana’s Nevermind and Soundgarden’s Badmotorfinger, contributing to a musical paradigm shift that still influences artists today.

Beyond the music itself, Ten fostered a cultural ethos. Pearl Jam was staunchly anti–mainstream-rock commercialism, rejecting music videos and limiting single releases, yet they built an intense fanbase through raw authenticity and electrifying live performances. Their authenticity and activism—such as efforts to fight ticket-gouging—became part of the band’s legend, and Ten served as the cornerstone of that identity.

As Ten celebrates its 34th anniversary this August 27, it’s worth noting how the album’s themes of introspection, alienation, and resolve remain uncannily relevant. Teen angst has never really gone out of style—and few albums express it with the sincerity and sonic heft of Ten.

AllMusic calls Ten “one of the most important records of the ’90s,” while Rolling Stone repeatedly places it high in rankings of greatest albums. Indeed, its songs still appear in movie soundtracks, TV shows, and Spotify mixes, introducing new generations to its pensive power.

In short, August 27 isn’t just another date on the calendar—it’s a reminder of a defining moment in modern music. Pearl Jam’s Ten changed the course of rock with its explosive debut, and over three decades later, its echoes are still being felt.

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Allen Jessie Dupree, Jr.
July 17, 1941 – August 24, 2025
Services: Wednesday August 27 at the First Baptist Church of Provencal

Joseph Otis Malmay
October 25, 1933 – August 23, 2025
Services:  Wednesday August 27 at 2:00 PM at Memorial Baptist Church

James “Jimmy” Weathy
November 9, 1944 – August 22, 2025
Services: Wednesday August 27 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Zwolle

Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge.)

You may email them to SPJContent@sabineparishjournal.com

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The town of Zwolle is gearing up to celebrate one of its most anticipated traditions, the Zwolle Tamale Fiesta, set for October 9–11, 2025, at the Zwolle Festival Grounds. The three-day event will feature live music, contests, food, parades, and cultural showcases honoring the town’s rich history and traditions.

Pre-Fiesta Events:

Festivities begin early with the Fiesta Poster Unveiling on Thursday, September 11, followed by the First Lady & King’s Gathering and Fiesta Trail Ride on Saturday, October 4. A Fiesta Royal Mass at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7.

Thursday, October 9 — Kick-Off:

The official fiesta opens with Senior Citizen Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., including bingo, lunch, and door prizes. Festival gates open at 4 p.m. with $2 admission. Opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. will present Fiesta Royalty, recognize dignitaries, and showcase special entertainment. Music kicks off at 7:30 p.m. with the Next of Kin Band.

Friday, October 10 — Music and Fun:

The day begins with a Third Grade Educational Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gates reopen at 4 p.m. with $5 admission. Evening entertainment includes performances by Herry Reggans & The Louisiana Side Men (4–5:30 p.m.), Lucas Jagneaux and the Road Show (6–7:30 p.m.), and Horace Trahan and the Ossun Express (8–11 p.m.).

Saturday, October 11 — Fiesta Day:

Fiesta Saturday kicks off with a 5K Run at 8 a.m., followed by the Parade at 10 a.m. and a Treasure Hunt for a $500 savings bond. Festival gates open at 8 a.m. with $10 admission. The day is packed with activities including:

Midwest Rides & Concessions (11 a.m.)
Toledo Cruisers Car Club Show (11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.)
Tamale Eating Contest (11:15 a.m.)
Spanish Costume Contest (12 p.m.)
Arm Wrestling Contest (12:30 p.m.)
Tamale Judging (1 p.m.)
Mud Bog Competition (2 p.m.) with special tent and cooler fees

Live music will run throughout the afternoon and evening with performances by PineKnotz Band, Landry & Company Band, Ronnie Anderson with Raven, One Trick Pony, and Shadow Road closing out the night.
The Zwolle Tamale Fiesta offers tamales, carnival rides, concessions, souvenirs, vendors, and a celebration of community pride.

For more details, visit zwolletamalefiesta.com.

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The annual Bash on the Bayou is set to return on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the 4-H Mini Farm, offering fans a full day of tailgating fun, food, and football. Doors will open at 10 a.m., with activities continuing throughout the day.

General admission is $5 per person. Tailgate shirts and football game tickets must be purchased separately. Tailgate ticket sales will close on November 7. Football game tickets start at $35, while tailgate T-shirts are priced at $23 (with an additional $2 for 2XL and $3 for 3XL). Shirts are available online only and must be ordered by October 1.

No reserved parking will be available for cars and trucks. A limited number of passes will be issued for school buses.

The first 250 attendees will enjoy free food and drinks. Doors to the Mini Farm open at 10 a.m., and food service begins at 11 a.m.

Fans can watch live football games on big screens inside the Mini Farm, while outdoor activities will take place under the pavilion, making it a family-friendly celebration of football and community spirit.

For ticket and shirt purchases, visit the event’s official links.

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As a guy that played baseball on all levels in the ‘70s and ‘80s from the age of 7 ‘til 27, I never thought I would see the day where robots would be calling balls and strikes. But fast forward to 2025 and that’s where baseball is headed as this year’s MLB All-Star Game showed.

This new technology for calling balls and strikes has been in the works for quite a while, but I feel it has no place in professional baseball! Call me a purist, or just an old fogie, but there are certain parts of the game of baseball where the human element is so important. Calling balls and strikes is one of those areas that does not need a technological update.

I like the fact that a human is making those calls and appreciate how each umpire is different on how they call the game. Pitchers and hitters have always had to adjust their perception of the strike zone depending on who is behind the plate. IT’S A PART OF THE GAME OF BASEBALL THAT MAKES IT INTRIGUING!

The human element of umpires calling balls and strikes, as well as safe or out, is what makes baseball so pure. I’m OKwith instant replay on whether a guy is safe or out or if a ball is fair or foul, but when it comes to calling balls and strikes, let the human umpires do their jobs.

Remember this, for all you hitters, prepare to strike out a lot more than you have previously! That’s right, the robotic strike zone is not forgiving at all. If the baseball just touches the outer edge of the rectangular square, it’s a strike.

Those inside or outside pitches, that used to go in the hitter’s favor by usually being called a ball, will no longer be such. Pitchers and hitters are already paranoid on how certain umpires call the game, and now with technology calling balls and strikes, there will be more challenges by both on questionable calls with regards to balls and strikes.

This is similar to how technology and forward-facing sonar is affecting professional bass fishing. Anglers no longer spend their days trying to figure out where the fish are. All they must do now is drop the trolling motor and turn on their forward-facing and look for fish on a screen.

Professional bass fishing has lost the integrity of the sport. Locating fish has always been the number one skill anglers had to develop. They do this with time on the water while understanding bass behavior based on the time of year, weather, and what they are feeding on.

But now with the flip of a switch, anglers can look at a screen in real time and see the exact location of where bass are set up. All the guess work and fishing skills have been eliminated. While seeing fish on a screen does not always equate to catching fish, locating the fish is 80 percent of being successful as an angler.

I’m not trying to be “Debbie Downer,” I just think there are certain elements with all sports where we need the human interaction. Technological advancements are great and can really simplify all our lives, but we must proceed with caution.

As a fan, this new technology sounds boring to me and if it’s implemented, it will discourage me from watching Major League Baseball. Next thing you know we’ll have robots as designated hitters with the ability to hit every kind of pitch man can throw while never striking out.

If you need proof of how technology can ruin a sport, look no further than professional bass fishing as its TV viewership has fallen off considerably due to new technology and forward-facing sonar. Fans have made it known they do not want to sit in their living rooms and watch as anglers stare at a 14 or 16-inch screen and catch bass.

Hopefully Major League Baseball will re-evaluate the thought of using this new technology.

‘Til next time, good luck, good fishing and make sure to use your sunscreen and wear good UV protective clothing during these hot summer days.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com.

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This time 50 years ago, I was beginning my senior year of High School.

Ah, high school. That magical four-year stretch where hormones rage, cafeteria food defies science, and algebra ruins lives. But not all high schools are created equal—especially when separated by half a century. Let’s hop into our metaphorical DeLorean and compare high school in 1975 with its futuristic cousin in 2025.

In 1975, high school was a land of corded phones, disco balls, and chalk dust. Students roamed the halls in polyester glory, wielding Trapper Keepers and feathered hairlike weapons of mass distraction. The biggest tech innovation? Overhead projectors that required a PhD in transparency sheet alignment.
Teachers wrote on chalkboards with the intensity of Shakespeare composing sonnets. If you missed a class, you begged a friend for notes, which were handwritten in cursive so elaborate it could double as a ransom letter. Research papers involved actual books, and the Dewey Decimal System was your GPS.

Lunch was a mystery meat roulette. You didn’t ask questions. You just prayed it wasn’t Salisbury steak again. Gym class was a Darwinian experiment involving dodgeballs the size of beach balls and zero regard for dental safety.

Social life revolved around passing notes—actual paper notes—folded into origami triangles and delivered with the stealth of Cold War spies. If you wanted to ask someone out, you had to do it face-to-face, risking rejection and acne exposure simultaneously.

Fast forward to 2025, where high school resembles a tech startup with lockers. Students glide through hallways wearing smartwatches that track their hydration, mood, and whether they’ve blinked enough today. The dress code? A mix of athleisure, LED accessories, and whatever TikTok said was cool last week.

Teachers now wield touchscreens and AI assistants. Chalkboards are extinct, replaced by interactive whiteboards that occasionally glitch and show cat videos mid-lecture. Homework is submitted via cloud platforms, and plagiarism detection software is so advanced it can tell if you copied your own work from last semester.

Lunch menus are curated by nutritionists and include gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, joy-free options. There’s a salad bar, a smoothie station, and a robot named “Lunchatron” that dispenses quinoa with judgmental precision.

Gym class has evolved into “Mindful Movement,” featuring yoga, breathing exercises, and virtual dodgeball—because no one wants to risk a lawsuit over a bruised ego. There’s a wellness room with bean bags, aromatherapy, and a counselor who speaks fluent emoji.

Social life? It’s digital. Crushes are confessed via encrypted Snapchats, and drama unfolds in group chats with names like “TeaSpillers2025.” Asking someone out involves sending a meme, a GIF, and a poll to gauge interest.

So, which era wins? In 1975, high school was raw, analog, and gloriously awkward. In 2025, it’s sleek, sanitized, and algorithmically optimized. But one thing remains constant: teenagers still think adults don’t understand them, cafeteria food still tastes suspicious, and nobody knows what the mitochondria actually does.

Or as the writer of Ecclesiastes said, “There is nothing new under the sun.”

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On August 20, 1983, the legendary Rolling Stones made headlines—and sent shockwaves through the music industry—by signing what was then the largest recording contract in history: a staggering $28 million deal with CBS Records.

At a time when record labels were cautiously measuring star power, this contract marked an extraordinary leap of faith—and a bold statement of confidence—in the enduring appeal of one of rock’s founding acts.

By the early 1980s, the Rolling Stones had already cemented their legacy over two decades of groundbreaking albums and electrifying performances. Yet even for artists of their stature, a contract of this magnitude was unheard of. It wasn’t simply about money—it was a symbol of the Stones’ ongoing relevance and market power in an increasingly competitive pop landscape.

Contemporaneous media coverage in Billboard and Rolling Stone framed the deal as a watershed moment: a validation that legacy acts could still command superstar-level investment, even amid the MTV-fueled rise of newer, flashier names.

For fans, it was a reminder that the Rolling Stones were no relic—they were still very much a force to be reckoned with, ready to shape the soundscape of the 1980s.

A Glimpse Back: What Else Happened on August 20?

In 1920, the precursor to the NFL, the American Professional Football Conference, was formed in Canton, Ohio.

In 1975, NASA launched the Viking 1 probe toward Mars, setting the stage for the first successful U.S. Mars landing a year later.

But for music lovers and long-time Rolling Stones fans, August 20, 1983, remains memorable as the day when the cost of rock and roll hit a record—literally.

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The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) of Natchitoches kicked off the new school year by joining Northwestern State University’s First Night Fest with a student-focused event called “Slice to Meet Ya!” Partnering with Louie’s Pizza, WRC invited NSU students to grab a free slice and learn more about the Center’s mission to support women and families in our community.

The event was more than just about pizza—it was an opportunity to connect with students during one of the busiest times of the year, NSU Move-In Day. Hundreds of students stopped by the WRC booth on Iberville Green to enjoy a slice, pick up information, and find out how they can get involved through volunteering, service projects, or community partnerships. Along with pizza and resources, students also received “a little Jesus”—a simple but meaningful reminder of Christ’s presence and WRC’s faith-driven mission. Fountain of Life Church also partnered in the outreach by handing out cold waters, helping keep students refreshed on a warm Louisiana evening.

Joining the Center were Hannah Guilliam, Youth Director of Louisiana Right to Life, and Cailey Difulco, Students for Life Regional Coordinator, who each spoke with students about the importance of promoting life-affirming resources on campus and in the wider Natchitoches community. Their presence highlighted the strong collaboration between local, state, and national partners who share a commitment to supporting young women and families.

“Our goal is to meet students where they are—whether they’re new to NSU or returning—and invite them to be part of something bigger than themselves,” said Nicole Woods, Director of the Women’s Resource Center. “Events like this allow us to build relationships, share our mission, and encourage students to get involved in life-affirming work right here in Natchitoches.”

The evening was a lively mix of community spirit, free food, and meaningful conversations. Many students expressed interest in volunteering with WRC or attending future events, while others simply enjoyed the chance to connect with peers in a welcoming and encouraging environment.

Looking ahead, the Women’s Resource Center is excited to host its Annual Gala on Thursday, September 18, 2025. This year’s event will feature keynote speaker Benjamin Clapper, Executive Director of Louisiana Right to Life, and will highlight WRC’s new designation as a Maternal Wellness Center. Guests will also learn how the recently launched Louisiana Maternal Wellness Center Tax Credit allows supporters to give back while receiving a 50% state tax credit. The Gala promises to be an inspiring evening of celebration, community impact, and life-affirming vision.

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Judy was still young when World War II broke out. When she went onboard, she became the only female among about 50 males on the Royal Navy’s insect-class ship HMS Gnat. She could not speak English, but she understood a few words after a while. The Gnat’s designation as an insect-class ship was misleading because the Gnat was a well-armed gunboat that the Germans wanted to eliminate. On October 21, 1941, German submarine U-79 located the Gnat and fired a torpedo. The torpedo struck its mark and did enough damage to the ship to put it out of service, but not to sink it. The survivors, including Judy, were transferred to the dragonfly-class river gunboat, HMS Grasshopper. Four months later, on February 14, 1942, Japanese dive bombers attacked the Grasshopper, and it slowly sank. The survivors made their way to land and began their daring trek to safety in enemy territory. On land, the men searched but were unable to find a source for drinkable water. Once Judy learned what they were looking for, she joined the search. It was she who found fresh water. For that, the men began referring to her as their “guardian angel.”

The survivors were eventually captured by Japanese soldiers and taken to a prison camp. The men became official prisoners of war under the Geneva Convention, but the Japanese guards refused to register Judy as an official P.O.W. The guards were unsure what to do with Judy, but they refused to provide food, water, or shelter for her. The men shared their meager rations of putrid water and maggot infested rice with Judy. When the guards were abusing the men, Judy intervened. It usually ended the beatings, but the guards often trained their hostilities onto her instead. Somehow, one of the prisoners convinced the camp commandant to register Judy as an official prisoner of war. This meant that they had to provide food, water, and shelter for Judy.

Judy was unbreakable. Her determination to survive brought hope to the other prisoners. Then, after being in the camp for more than two years, a Japanese captain arrived and ordered the men to move to a ship which would take them to another camp. Judy, he ordered, would be left behind to fend for herself. The prisoners knew better than to try to convince the captain to bring Judy, but they were not going to leave her behind to die alone. They quickly came up with a plan in which they could communicate by using hand signals and low whistles. The men rehearsed loading Judy in and out of rice sacks and taught her the different whistle signals, the most important one was the signal for her to be still and quiet. On June 25, 1944, the prisoners loaded the sacks of rice from their former prison onto a ship which was to take them to their new prison camp. Judy was hiding in one of those sacks and made it safely aboard. Just one day into the trip, their ship was sunk by a torpedo. Judy not only survived, but she pulled survivors from the water. Finally, after Victory over Japan on August 15, 1945, and after three years of captivity, the prisoners, including Judy, were rescued.

Many English soldiers owe their lives to Judy, their guardian angel. In May 1946, Judy was awarded the PDSA Dickin Medal for bravery which is commonly referred to as the Victoria Cross for animals. Judy, a pure-bred English Pointer and mascot for the Royal Navy, was the only dog in history to be officially registered as a prisoner of war.

Sources:

1. “PDSA Dickin Medal,” PDSA, accessed August 10, 2025, https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/animal-awards-programme/pdsa-dickin-medal.

2. “Meet Judy,” National Military Working Dogs Memorial UK, accessed August 10, 2025, https://nmwdm.org.uk/dogs/judy/.

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It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Connie Lynn Johnson Seegers, who peacefully left us on August 6, 2025, at the age of 69, at her lake house in Louisiana.

Born on April 22, 1956, in Texas City, Texas, Connie was the eldest of three children born to Cleo and Christine Johnson. She grew up in Texas City, where she graduated high school in 1974. She often reflected fondly on her childhood in Texas and summers spent in Florida with family and friends – memories that remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Connie met her husband, Randy Seegers, in Houston, Texas in 1979. The two were married in 1982 and began their life together in Pasadena, Texas, where they welcomed their first daughter, Lindsey. Seeking to be closer to loved ones and build a life rooted in family values, they eventually settled in Many, Louisiana where they welcomed two more children; son, Rand and daughter, Loren.

A devoted wife and mother, Connie poured her heart into raising her children and nurturing a warm and loving home with Randy. Her determination to lead by example inspired her to become the first in her family to graduate from college – a proud milestone that reflected her perseverance and dedication.

Her commitment to community was equally inspiring. Connie worked within the community where her warm demeanor made everyone feel like an old friend. Her contributions reflected her deep-rooted passion for service and advocacy. A true pillar of the community, Connie’s dedication left a lasting imprint on countless lives.

Connie’s life was marked by quiet strength and unwavering support for those she loved. She was known for being caring and patient – always ready with an encouraging word or a listening ear. She enjoyed spending time with family, reading a good book or boating on the lake with Randy by her side. She will be immensely missed for her infectious laughter and love that knew no bounds.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 43 years, Randy Seegers of Many, Louisiana; daughter, Lindsey Dobbs and husband, Kris, of Celina, Texas; son, Rand Seegers and wife, Megan, of Springdale, Arkansas; and daughter, Loren Wakeley and husband, Luke, of Deville, Louisiana.

Connie was also a proud “Mimi” to ten grandchildren, Brandon Dobbs, Grace Dobbs, Kaylen Dobbs, Peighton Dobbs, Rhett Seegers, Nash Seegers, Millie Seegers, Vivian Wakeley, Meredith Wakeley, and Thomas Wakeley. Her unconditional love for them was evident in every moment she spent with them.

She is also survived by her father, Cleo Johnson of Destin, Florida; sister, Sherri Griffith and husband, Rocky of Destin, Florida; brother, Mike Johnson and wife, Carolyn of Bend, Oregon; nieces, nephews, and a host of family and friends who were touched by her warmth and kindness. She was preceded in death by her mother, Christine Johnson.

Her legacy lives on through the family she nurtured with love and the countless lives she touched with her gentle spirit. If you knew her then you loved her, and she loved you.

A celebration of life for Connie will be held on Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Highway in  Many. A visitation will begin at 11 a.m followed by a memorial service at 12 p.m.

May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

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Keith Glenn Graham, 57, was born on December 30, 1967 in Waco, Texas and passed away on Monday, August 12, 2025 in Many, Louisiana. His friends will be holding a memorial service for Keith at a later date.

Keith was a hard worker and enjoyed his life to the fullest. One of his favorite past times was spending time with his friends. He attended River of Life United Pentecostal Church in Pleasant Hill, Louisiana.

Left to cherish Keith’s memory is his adopted and loving family, Jim Sullivan and wife Christine, Sherman Sullivan and wife, Lisa, Jerry Sullivan and wife, Rhonda, and Deanna Sabol and husband, Ken.

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