BOM Bank is a proud sponsor of the Many High School Softball Program, helping with travel, equipment, and game-day expenses. Pictured left to right: BOM’s Ashley Parrie, Teagan Rodrigues, and BOM’s Tiffany Miller.
The Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival, which is going to be held on the downtown riverbank May 15-16 has released its schedule for its 29th Festival, and as usual, it is chocked full with artists for just about every musical taste, including Jazz, R&B (of course), Country, Rock & Roll, Soul, Gospel, Folk, Blues, Zydeco and much more.
This year’s headliner is multiplatinum Country superstar, Joe Nichols, who will appear on the main stage beginning at 9 p.m. on Saturday, May 16. Preceding Nichols will be American Idol runner up and Louisiana native John Foster at 7 p.m., local and regional favorites and Louisiana Music Hall of Fame members Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs at 5:25 p.m., hit making R&B/Soul singer, Tiffany Rachal at 3:40 p.m., Natchitoches’ own Country music legend and Curb Recording artist Trini Triggs at 2:35 p.m., with the music being kicked off on the Main Stage by Zydeco legend, Gerard Delafose.
There will be over 15 bands on three stages with the schedule for the Fleur De Lis Stage and Roque House Stage listed below. For the first time ever there will also be a Natchitoches Original Music Showcase Stage located at Beau Jardin. That stage will feature mostly Natchitoches artists performing their original music.
The fun begins on Friday night with Tribute to Legends night which will begin with Led Zeppelin tribute band, The Zeppelin Project at 7 p.m. featuring a faithful recreation of the super group’s hits.
Prior to the Zeppelin, will be Waterloo, the nation’s premiere ABBA tribute act will faithfully create the 70’s Swedish super group’s concert, including dancers and a lights show. Attendees are encouraged dress up and sing along.
As always, there will be plenty of great food and kids’ activities at this family event. For more information and to order tickets go to http://www.natchjazzfest.com
Fleur De Lis Stage
12:00 – 1:00 Snake Doctors. Led by grizzled veteran, Ed Huey, this Natchitoches based Doctors prescription will be an eclectic blend of Blues, Jazz, Folk, with a little Rock & Roll and R&B thrown in. You will hear things you’ve never heard before from this entertaining group.
1:10 – 2:10 The Luke Brouillette Jazz Trio (Traditional and Modern Jazz). Led by guitarist Luke Brouillette, this trio which includes Sammy Nix on drums and Dion Pierre on bass will play through well-loved jazz standards featuring Swing, Latin, and Bebop. Listen and watch while these virtuosos perform some righteous jazz.
2:20 – 3:20 Deep Water Rehab – (Classic, Southern Rock, Country, Originals & Covers). This Winnfield-based band covering Classic & Southern Rock, Country, and even some R&B tunes. They’ll also be performing cuts from their album of original songs which recently dropped.
3:30 – 4:30 Gumbo Delux – (R&B/Soul). This is a high-energy Shreveport based Soul/R&B group serving up a spicy mix of covers of great songs of yesterday and today.
4:45 – 5:45 Junior the Third – (Blues and Jazz). This Shreveport based trio started out as raw, stripped-down Blues and has stretched into something deeper, shaped by soulful jams, old standards, and the kind of feel you can’t fake. Pulling from the well of Delta and Hill Country blues, they built a sound that’s less about polish and more about pocket.
6:00 – 7:00 Becky Birdwell and the Shuffle Kings (Classic Rock/R&B/Country/Gospel). Becky and her family band has been a fixture at the festival for many years and play a crowd-pleasing mixture of classic rock, R&B, Country with some gospel thrown in.
Roque House Stage
1:00 – 2:00 The Amazing! Rhythm Disciples (Gospel/R&B/Rock/Country/Inspirational). This Natchitoches-based Gospel/Inspiration group will perform an eclectic blend of secular and traditional gospel music which will include some Rock & Roll, Country, Rhythm & Blues and Contemporary Christian songs. Their set includes some unique “Mash Ups” of traditional hymns with more modern secular music. All of it, music with a message!
2:10 – 3:10 Jenny & Kelli (Harmonious Rock, Covers, & Originals). These popular Natchitoches songbirds play a rousing blend of songs that you know and love along with a few of their very own originals. Every song will feature their spectacular angelic harmonies.
3:20 – 4:20 Broken Peaces – (Classic Rock). This kind of a “Super Group,” made up of members of various bands who have come together to make some great high-energy music, focusing mainly on the Rock & Roll of the 70’s through the 90’s.
4:35 – 5:35 Badd Apple – (Classic Rock/ R&B). Led by local legend, Billy O’Con, featuring some of the finest musicians in north Louisiana, this rocking group will have everyone on their feet and dancing from the first note.
5:50 – 6:50 Jester – (Rock and Blues). This 3-piece high-energy band, exploding out of Bossier City is fronted by 13 year old guitar protégé and vocalist, Odin Cobb, and is fueled by the thunderous drive of a 17 year old drummer and locked in tight by a veteran bassist. Don’t miss this highly entertaining act.
Advance tickets may be purchased at http://www.natchjazzfest.com
Students at Zwolle High School are being recognized for their creativity and artistic achievement following a successful showing at a recent art expo.
According to school officials, talented ZHS art students proudly displayed their work during the event, highlighting a wide range of creativity, skill, and imagination. The expo provided an opportunity for students to present their artwork to peers, faculty, and the community, demonstrating both their individual styles and artistic growth.
Teachers and supporters praised the students for their dedication and hard work, noting that each piece reflected the time and effort invested throughout the school year. The event also served as a reminder of the importance of arts education and its role in fostering creativity and self-expression among students.
School leaders say they are proud of how the students represented Zwolle High School and Sabine Parish, emphasizing that the continued growth of the program is a testament to both student commitment and strong support from educators.
The art expo stands as another example of the talent found within Sabine Parish schools, with students continuing to shine both inside and outside the classroom.
The Many High School Tiger Band is being celebrated across Sabine Parish after an outstanding performance and educational trip to Virginia.
Students recently traveled to participate in a workshop with the music faculty at the College of William & Mary, where they enhanced their musical skills and received hands-on instruction. In addition to the workshop, band members explored historic sites including Jamestown, Yorktown, and Colonial Williamsburg, blending education with real-world experiences.
The highlight of the trip came during competition, where the Tiger Band earned a prestigious Gold Rating—an achievement that reflects the group’s dedication, discipline, and countless hours of preparation.
Adding to the accolades, Caleb Dehaven was named Outstanding Soloist among all participating bands, regardless of size, marking an exceptional individual accomplishment.
The band also received the Spirit Award, recognizing them as one of the most professional, hardworking, and supportive groups at the event. School officials say the honor speaks not only to the students’ talent but also to their character and teamwork.
In yet another major milestone, the Tiger Band was one of only three groups invited to participate in the upcoming Festival of Gold, further solidifying their reputation for excellence.
Faculty and community members say they are proud of how the students represented Many High School and Sabine Parish, both on stage and throughout their travels, showcasing the pride and talent of the Tiger Band.
All our lives we’ve heard people say, “I was there when …” Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s home run record. I was there when Reggie Jackson hit three home runs in a World Series game. I was there when Dale Earnhardt crashed in turn four and died at the Daytona 500.
Well, there was one event that I can say “I was there when” one particular fishing bait was introduced to the bass fishing world.
It was on Lake Okeechobee in 2006 when the concept of a new bait took bass fishing by storm … the ChatterBait! This was a bait that has become a staple for all bass tournament anglers. It’s a combination of two of the best baits ever made, a jig and a spinnerbait.
It’s a skirted jig with a small blade attached to the head of the bait. It has an unbelievable vibrating action that bass cannot refuse. Over the last 20 years, there have probably been more bass caught on this bait than any other.
I remember the day that I first heard about this new bait. I was fishing an FLW Tour event on Lake Okeechobee in South Florida and the word was out about this new bait that was catching bass like crazy.
Anglers were scrambling to get their hands on just one of these baits! Some guys would pay as much as $100 to get one. At this event, Roland Martin Marina was the only tackle store where you could get one. Every day for three straight days I walked into this store and every time all the pegs were empty.
Finally, with only one day left in the tournament, I asked Mrs. Mary Ann Martin (Roland’s wife) to please put one back for me and I would pick it up after I weighed my fish on the final day.
Turns out pro angler Bryan Thrift, in his first professional bass tournament, won this event and the ChatterBait craze began. For a couple of years, he tried to keep his secret bait under wraps but the folks that make the ChatterBait asked that he please let the cat out of the bag.
It was on stage during that FLW Tournament weigh-in on Lake Okeechobee that Bryan introduced the world to this revolutionary bait. From this event in 2006 through today, there’s probably not a single bass angler on a body of water that does not have some form of the ChatterBait tied on.
The company behind this bait is known as Z-Man and they have not only perfected this bait over the years but have come out with more versions. One thing about the fishing business; it’s a copycat industry, as other companies have tried to emulate this bait, but none have had the impact of the original ChatterBait.
While Z-Man has a patent on this bait protecting their blade design, there are other brands on the market that have had a little success, but no one has been able to capture that same magic that a ChatterBait produces.
While it’s not often that many of us can say “I was there when” a special moment took place, I was actually there when one of the greatest bass fishing lures hit market … the ChatterBait!
Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com.
Melrose, Louisiana – Get ready to experience the magic of handcrafted wonders at the 52nd Annual Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival, taking place on April 18th from 9 am to 5 pm, and April 19th from 10 am to 3 pm. The festival will be held at Melrose on the Cane where attendees can immerse themselves in a vibrant showcase of unique treasures crafted by talented artisans, savor a variety of delicious foods, sip on beer, wine, and other refreshing beverages such as fresh squeezed lemonade. Homemade ice cream
returns to the festival this year as a long standing fan favorite as well as iron and wood works for your home and garden. We are also excited to feature local authors throughout the festival, along with live demonstrations that highlight traditional crafts such as basket weaving and quilting. These interactive experiences offer guests a chance to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Additionally, Randolph “Randy” Deaton will be presenting a special talk on Clementine
Hunter on Saturday, April 18 at 11 AM. Guests are encouraged to bring any photos or personal stories they may have of Clementine Hunter, which can be scanned and added to his growing collection.
Tickets for this exciting event can be purchased at:
https://givebutter.com/MelroseArtsAndCrafts2026. Attendees will be able to shop for: stunning jewelry, exquisite paintings, savory salsa, intricate woodwork, delectable desserts, and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply looking for something special, there’s something for everyone to discover and cherish at the Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival.
“We’d love for y’all to come out, shop, and support historic Melrose. Take in the views, check out all the vendors, and just enjoy a good day together at the festival. Tours of the Big House and African House will be available- so bring your friends and family and make it a day to remember, ” said Ariel Rachal event organizer.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate over five decades of artistic excellence at the 52nd Annual Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival. Purchase your tickets today and join us for a weekend of creativity, community, and celebration!
For ticket information and event updates, please visit https://givebutter.com/MelroseArtsAndCrafts2026
Media Contact: Ariel Rachal, Email MelrosePlantation@gmail.com
About the Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival: The Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival is an annual celebration of artistry, creativity, and community spirit. For 52 years, the festival has showcased the talents of local artisans and provided a platform for visitors to discover unique handcrafted treasures. Join us as we celebrate over five decades of artistic excellence and continue to inspire creativity for generations to come.
This morning at the dayschool, the fish tank was mysteriously covered with a blanket like it was being punished for bad behavior. If you didn’t know better, you might’ve thought the fish were grounded for talking back to the teacher or refusing to share their crayons. But no—turns out we’ve got ourselves an algae outbreak. A fullblown, green, slimy, “Swamp Thing” situation. And the only way to get it under control is to keep the light out until the bloom settles down.
Now, I’m no marine biologist, but I do know this: when the fish tank is greener than a St. Patrick’s Day parade, something’s off.
And wouldn’t you know it—Jesus has something to say about this.
Because algae, as it turns out, loves light. Not the good, lifegiving kind of light Jesus talks about. No, algae loves the “I’vebeen-left-alone-too-long-without-boundaries” kind of light. Give algae too much light, and it throws a party. Give it a little more, and it invites all its cousins. Before long, the fish are filing formal complaints and asking for relocation.
So the solution?
Cover the tank.
Limit the light.
Let things reset.
And that’s when it hit me: sometimes God does the same thing with us.
Not because we’re bad. Not because we’re in trouble. But because something in us has started growing that doesn’t belong there—resentment, worry, pride, comparison, hurry, that one comment someone made in 2009 that we still replay like it’s a classic movie.
Sometimes the Lord lovingly puts a “cover” over our tank.
A season of quiet.
A pause we didn’t choose.
A slowdown we didn’t schedule.
A moment where the lights dim and we wonder, “What is happening?”
But maybe God is simply helping us get rid of the spiritual algae that’s clouding the water.
Jesus once said, “I am the light of the world,” and He also said, “You are the light of the world.” But He never said, “You need to be under the spotlight all the time.” Sometimes the brightest thing God can do is give us a little shade so the unhealthy stuff stops multiplying.
Think about it: When was the last time you slowed down long enough to notice what was growing in you?
When did you last let God filter the water of your soul?
The fish tank will be uncovered Thursday morning. The water will clear. The fish will go back to doing whatever fish do (mostly judging us through the glass). But the covering is part of the healing.
Maybe you’re in a coveredtank season right now. Maybe God is dimming the lights not to punish you, but to purify you. Not to hide you, but to help you.
And when the cover comes off, you’ll shine clearer, brighter, and more beautifully than before.
Even the fish would say amen to that—if they weren’t so busy swimming in circles.
If it feels like getting or keeping insurance lately comes down to luck, you’re not alone. With rates climbing, policies changing, and hurricane season always looming, many homeowners are left wondering what they’ll land on next—and whether they can afford it.
John P. Thompson changed our world yet most of us have never heard of him. At some point in our lives, each of us has used his inventions. It would be hard to find a home in America which does not contain multiples of John’s inventions. They are so commonplace that they often go unnoticed.
Little is known about John Thompson, but he was born in 1857 in Iowa. After working various jobs including laborer, bank teller, and room furnisher in a couple of different states, he eventually settled in Portland, Oregon. While there, he worked as an auto mechanic. John used a hand tool to tighten fasteners to the cars he worked on, but the tool kept slipping off the fastener. This resulted in skinned knuckles and damage to the cars. Finally, John’s frustration had reached its limit. He decided to create a new tool and fastener that when used together would not slip. No one knows how long John worked on his inventions or how many attempts it took before he created his “cruciform groove” tool and fastener, but in the summer of 1932, John filed for patents for his two inventions. On May 9, 1933, the United States Patent Office granted patent numbers 1,908,080 and 1,908,081 for John’s fastener and tool respectively. For reasons that remain unclear, in the patents John assigned or transferred his rights to his inventions to Henry Frank. The connection between John and Henry has never been proven, but many people believe that Henry purchased or funded John’s patents.
Rather than investing the money to create and sell the tool and fasteners himself, Henry created a company to franchise the products. Companies which produced them paid Henry’s company a hefty royalty. In 1936, Cadillac became the first industrial customer to use John’s inventions for its 1937-year model cars. The new tool and fasteners increased production and lowered costs. Word quickly spread and within a short time the other automobile companies as well as railroad and aviation manufacturers adopted John’s cruciform groove inventions. In September 1940, John died impoverished and largely forgotten, but Henry became wealthy. John’s cruciform groove inventions could have been known as the Thompson screw and Thompson screwdriver, but because he transferred the patents to Henry, we know them by his last name. We have all used Henry Frank…Phillips screws and Phillips screwdrivers.
Sources:
1. Michael J. Allen, “Phillips screw and driver,” Oregon Encyclopedia: A project of the Oregon Historical Society, accessed April 5, 2026, https://www.oregonencyclopedia.org/articles/phillips_screw_and_driver/.
2. “J.P. Thompson Screw, patent number 1,908,080,” United States Patent and Title Office, May 9, 1933, accessed April 5, 2026, https://ppubs.uspto.gov/api/pdf/downloadPdf/1908080?requestToken=eyJzdWIiOiIzODg1YzMwNC1hNmRjLTQwMzMtYWNlYi0xODAxMTlkNzZkNjciLCJ2ZXIiOiJlYWZmMjhlYi1hMmRlLTQ4ZGUtYTQxMy01M2E2NzJjZjZjOTYiLCJleHAiOjB9.
3. “J.P. Thompson Screw Driver, patent number 1,908,081,” United States Patent and Title Office, May 9, 1933, accessed April 5, 2026, https://ppubs.uspto.gov/api/pdf/downloadPdf/1908081?requestToken=eyJzdWIiOiIzODg1YzMwNC1hNmRjLTQwMzMtYWNlYi0xODAxMTlkNzZkNjciLCJ2ZXIiOiJlYWZmMjhlYi1hMmRlLTQ4ZGUtYTQxMy01M2E2NzJjZjZjOTYiLCJleHAiOjB9.
April 15 is a date etched into history through events that span tragedy, perseverance, and transformation across different eras.
Perhaps the most widely recognized event tied to this day is the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912. After striking an iceberg late on April 14, the luxury liner sank in the early hours of April 15, resulting in the deaths of more than 1,500 passengers and crew. The disaster shocked the world and led to sweeping maritime safety reforms, including improved lifeboat requirements and the establishment of the International Ice Patrol.
April 15 is also known in the United States as Tax Day, the deadline for filing federal income tax returns. While far less dramatic, the annual date has become a consistent fixture in American life, often sparking discussions about fiscal policy, government spending, and economic responsibility.
In 1947, another milestone unfolded when Jackie Robinson made his debut in Major League Baseball, breaking the color barrier. His first game with the Brooklyn Dodgers marked a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement, challenging segregation in professional sports and paving the way for greater inclusion.
The date also carries somber significance in more recent history. On April 15, 2013, two bombs detonated near the finish line of the Boston Marathon, killing three people and injuring hundreds. The attack led to a massive manhunt and ultimately changes in security measures at major public events.
Across generations, April 15 has come to represent both loss and progress, serving as a reminder of how pivotal moments can reshape safety standards, social norms, and national conversations.
Frances Alta Hayes
October 16, 1928 – April 9, 2026
Visitation: Friday from 5 till 8:00 at Warren Meadows Funeral Home in Zwolle.
Services: Saturday, April 18, at 2:00 at First Baptist Church
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
The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office has released details on several recent arrests involving drug possession, firearm violations, and traffic-related offenses across the parish.
Authorities report that Jimmy Lee Holden, 36, of Many was arrested on charges of possession of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (methamphetamine) and possession of drug paraphernalia.
His bond was set at $5,000, and he remains in jail.
In a separate case, Kimberely A. Scott, 35, of Many faces multiple charges, including possession with intent to distribute Schedule II (methamphetamine), possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance, second or subsequent offenses, failure to signal, and no seatbelt. Her bond was set at $20,294.50, which has since been posted.
Teresa Kay Campbell, 46, of Zwolle was also arrested on charges of possession of Schedule II (methamphetamine), possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Additional charges include operating a vehicle in unsafe condition and improper display of a license plate. Her bond was set at $10,633, and she has been released after posting bond.
Nathan Chey Remedies Jr., 25, of Zwolle was charged with possession of Schedule II (methamphetamine), second or subsequent offenses, and failure to signal. He was granted an O.R. (own recognizance) bond set at $7,500 and has been released.
In the most serious case reported, Olando Cardell Levo, 45, of Many faces charges of possession with intent to distribute Schedule I (synthetic cannabinoids), possession of Schedule II (methamphetamine), driving on a roadway laned for traffic, and operating a vehicle while license suspended. He is also wanted on a warrant for three counts of failure to register as a sex offender. His total bond has been set at $75,000, and he remains in custody.
The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office continues to address drug-related offenses and associated crimes, with several individuals facing significant charges and bond amounts in recent arrests.
Zwolle – A lifetime of dedication to the logging industry is being celebrated as Vernon Louis Rivers, Sr. has been selected as the Oldest Logger for this year’s Zwolle Loggers and Forestry Festival.
Rivers’ passion for forestry began at an early age in the Blue Lake community along the Sabine River, where he worked alongside his father. By just 12 years old, he was already cutting pulpwood with a bow saw and managing a measuring stick, eventually advancing to the role of mule skinner.
After graduating from Ebarb High School in 1964, Rivers served his country in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1968, with assignments at Fort Polk and in Germany. Following his military service, he pursued a degree in forestry at Northwestern State University, further solidifying his commitment to the industry.
In 1977, Rivers founded Vernon Rivers Logging Company and later Rivers Trucking Company, creating jobs and contributing to the local economy. Known as an innovator, he introduced several advancements to the logging field, including the first enclosed skidder with air conditioning, a folding pole trailer, and a high-speed disc feller buncher saw. He also demonstrated a strong commitment to his workforce by offering health insurance and covering half of employee premiums.
Rivers’ contributions earned him statewide and regional recognition, including being named Louisiana Logger of the Year in 1991 and top logger across a five-state region. His achievements were also featured on the cover of Southern Logging Times that same year.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rivers has remained deeply connected to his community and faith, serving in various roles at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. He is also a devoted family man, with a large family that includes nine children, 26 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Even after retiring, Rivers continues to enjoy the outdoors through hunting and fishing, while cherishing time with his loved ones.
Festival organizers say they are proud to honor Rivers for his lifelong contributions and invite the public to attend this year’s Zwolle Loggers and Forestry Festival to celebrate his legacy and the region’s rich forestry heritage.
A stretch of warm, springtime weather is expected across Sabine Parish this week, with mostly sunny skies dominating and only slight chances for afternoon showers and thunderstorms at times.
Wednesday will bring mostly sunny conditions and a high near 79 degrees. Winds will remain light, becoming southeast around 5 mph. Wednesday night will be calm and partly cloudy, with temperatures dropping to around 56.
On Thursday, a slight change arrives as a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms develops after 1 p.m. Despite the small rain chance, skies will remain mostly sunny, with a high near 79. Thursday night turns partly cloudy with a low around 59.
Friday returns to a more stable pattern, featuring mostly sunny skies and a high near 82. Overnight conditions will be partly cloudy with lows near 60.
The weekend continues the warming trend. Saturday looks mostly sunny with highs climbing to around 85, followed by a mild Saturday night with a low near 62.
By Sunday, another slight chance of rain enters the forecast. Expect partly sunny skies with a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms and a high near 84. Sunday night will be mostly cloudy with a low around 65.
Looking ahead to Monday, similar conditions persist with a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms under partly sunny skies. High temperatures will reach near 85.
Sabine Parish will see a warm and mostly dry week overall, with only brief and isolated chances for afternoon storms. Most days will offer plenty of sunshine, making for favorable outdoor conditions.
Fifth grade students from across Sabine Parish stepped out of the classroom and onto the water last month, participating in the Sabine Aquatic Clinic held March 24–26 at Cypress Bend Park on Toledo Bend Reservoir.
Hosted by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the event gave students a unique, hands-on opportunity to learn essential fishing and water safety skills. From casting lines to tying knots, students gained practical experience guided by a team of wildlife and fisheries experts and community volunteers.
Instruction was led by multiple divisions within the department. Fisheries Outreach and Education staff taught students about invasive species and casting techniques, while Inland Fisheries District 10 personnel provided lessons in knot tying and fish identification. Enforcement agents from Region 3 focused on boating safety, emphasizing the importance of staying safe on the water. Volunteers from the Toledo Bend Lake Association also assisted students with fishing activities.
Organizers say the clinic not only introduced students to outdoor recreation but also reinforced the importance of conservation and safety.
“This event gives students skills they can use for a lifetime while helping them better understand Louisiana’s natural resources,” officials said.
The Sabine Aquatic Clinic continues to serve as a valuable educational experience, combining outdoor learning with community involvement to inspire the next generation of anglers and conservationists.
The Sabine Parish Road Department has announced a temporary road closure scheduled for later this week as crews work to complete infrastructure improvements.
According to officials, Carhee Road at the Carhee/Patton intersection will be closed on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The closure is necessary to allow for a culvert replacement project, aimed at improving drainage and roadway conditions in the area.
Drivers are advised to plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time during the closure period. Local officials stress that the work is essential to maintaining safe and reliable roadways across the parish.
The Sabine Parish Road Department appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as crews complete the project.
Community members in Sabine Parish are invited to come together next month for the annual Sabine Parish Autism Walk, an event focused on raising awareness and showing support for individuals and families affected by autism.
The walk is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Many High School Track in Many.
Organizers encourage residents to gather a team, invite friends and family, and take part in the event designed to promote autism awareness while bringing the community together. The annual walk has become a meaningful opportunity for families, supporters, and local organizations to show unity and encouragement for those impacted by autism.
Participants can expect a welcoming atmosphere focused on community support, awareness, and connection.
For more information about the event, residents can contact Amanda Darwin at 318-581-2383 or Anita Darwin at 318-379-8683.
Organizers say they look forward to seeing community members from across Sabine Parish gather once again for a day dedicated to awareness, support, and togetherness.
“It breaks my heart to think about children growing up with so much uncertainty because one parent isn’t paying what they should. When the support doesn’t come, it’s the kids and the custodial parent who carry the burden every single day — and no family should have to live that way.”
See what Ida says
Louisiana residents are once again battling their annual sworn enemy as a thick layer of pollen quietly takes over cars, porches, and anything that dares to exist outside. Visibility is fine, but everything now has a nice yellow finish—whether it asked for it or not. Officials have yet to confirm when it will end, but locals agree: the pollen is winning.
Most of us know that laughter is good for us. It eases stress, strengthens relationships, lightens the workplace, and boosts our overall sense of wellbeing. Proverbs puts it plainly: “A cheerful heart is good medicine.” And honestly, who among us couldn’t use a refill.
But humor, like everything else, needs healthy boundaries. We don’t have to be standup comedians or laugh at every mishap. And “putdown humor”—the kind that gets a chuckle by bruising someone else—doesn’t heal anything. It just dries up the bones faster.
What we need is the kind of humor that grows out of a joyful, grounded way of seeing the world. And believe it or not, Jesus modeled that beautifully.
Jesus wasn’t the stonefaced figure we sometimes imagine. He used humor—sharp, surprising, and downright funny—to open people’s eyes. When he talked about someone obsessing over the speck in another person’s eye while ignoring the log in their own, that wasn’t just a teaching. That was comedy.
Picture someone with a telephone pole sticking out of their face saying, “Hold still, I think you’ve got a little something right there.”
Or his line about straining out a gnat but swallowing a camel. That’s ancient satire. Jesus knew that sometimes the best way to expose our blind spots is to make us laugh at them.
And that’s the invitation for us today. We can choose joy over cynicism. We can practice humor that lifts people up instead of tearing them down. We can resist becoming a “Negative Nate”—the person who finds the downside of winning the lottery—and instead cultivate the kind of cheerful heart that heals.
Life is serious enough. Faith gives us permission to smile anyway. And the Great Physician still prescribes a good laugh.
Freshman Connection gives new students a clear path into college life, from class registration to campus relationships, before the semester begins.
By Cole Gentry, Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University
The drive to campus often carries two things at once, excitement and uncertainty.
For many students, college begins before the first class ever meets. It starts in the quiet questions that build during the summer. Where do I go? Who do I ask? What will this place feel like once it becomes mine?
At Northwestern State University, Freshman Connection is designed to answer those questions early and well.
The program serves as NSU’s official orientation for new first-year students attending the Natchitoches, Alexandria, Leesville, and Shreveport campuses. It gives students an organized, welcoming introduction to campus life, academic expectations, and the people who will help shape their first year. Students meet in small groups led by current student Connectors, who guide conversations, share advice, and help make a university feel personal from the very beginning.
That matters, because the transition to college rarely feels small.
Students are stepping away from familiar routines and entering a new environment with new expectations. They are learning how to manage time, ask for help, build relationships, and take ownership of their education. Freshman Connection meets them in that moment. It does not overwhelm them with information and send them on their way. It introduces them to the rhythm of NSU, one conversation, one session, and one connection at a time.
During orientation, students learn about academic advising and register for fall classes. They are introduced to campus services and resources that support strong academic choices and healthy social decisions. They explore opportunities for involvement and begin to understand what responsibility looks like in a college setting. By the end, the university is no longer a collection of buildings and offices. It starts to feel familiar.
“We want you to leave orientation knowing exactly where you belong,” said Dr. Mary-Katherine Maggio, director of First Year Experience and Student Engagement. “You arrive as a visitor, and you leave as a Demon.”
That sense of belonging is one of the most important parts of the experience.
Freshman Connection is also built with families in mind. Parent Connection runs alongside the student program and gives parents and guardians a closer look at first-year transitions, student involvement, campus services, university procedures, and academic resources. NSU also offers Kid Konnection for siblings ages 5 to 12, creating a family-centered welcome that recognizes college is often a transition shared by more than one person.
The 2026 schedule gives families several options. Natchitoches will host sessions May 20 to 21, May 27 to 28, June 17 to 18, and July 9. Additional one-day satellite events are scheduled for Alexandria on June 23, Leesville on June 24, and Shreveport on June 25, and these sessions are only for students attending those campuses. Registration opened Feb. 10 through the myStatus portal at http://www.nsu.la/mystatus, where students can also review admissions, financial aid, housing, and orientation information in one place.
That is why Freshman Connection matters. It gives students structure before the semester begins. It helps them move from uncertainty to clarity. It gives them names, faces, places, and next steps.
And for many, it marks the moment college stops feeling distant and starts feeling real.
At the end of Freshman Connection, students depart with direction. They know where to go, who to contact, and how to begin. They leave having already taken an important first step toward success at Northwestern State.
Explore Freshman Connection: www.nsu.la/fc
Apply to NSU: www.nsu.la/apply
Register for Freshman Connection: www.nsu.la/mystatus
We’ve all heard the words, “You need to stop and smell the roses.” That actually means we need to take the time to enjoy the moment. We need to be mentally present. Some of the best times in our lives are not always moments of fireworks going off.
Sometimes it’s those less important events that provide just as much joy. Today, I’ll go over a few events in my life that I truly cherish, along with some I regret.
There was one moment of regret during my Little League days. Even though I played all sports, I was also a dedicated Boy Scout. Being a scout during the 1970s was very common for a young boy.
But the one regret I have is the fact that I was one project away from becoming an Eagle Scout and never completed it. This is the highest achievement a scout can earn. It means a lot to become an Eagle Scout and looks good on a job resume. It gets the attention of an employer looking to hire you as it shows your ability to commit to a task and follow through.
I’ll admit that my baseball career, which was more important to me at that time, got in the way of my accomplishing the goal of receiving an Eagle Scout badge.
One event that’s given me a lifetime of both pride and joy was being a member of the 1978 Class 3A Texas state baseball championship team. Any time you can share the experience of winning a state title, especially with your closest friends, it just means more.
I can remember our head coach giving us a post-game speech after winning the state title. He said that this victory would mean more to us later in life than it did that day. How right he was!
That Texas state title whet my appetite for another one the next year. But nothing is harder than defending a state championship and regretfully we came up one game short of a repeat trip to the state tournament.
Another joy also comes with some regret. The day I got drafted by the Montreal Expos in 1983 brought so much joy. But after two seasons of playing in their minor league system, it was very apparent I had zero chance to make it to the major league level with the Expos.
Montreal at the time had three Major League Baseball All-Stars in their outfield with Tim Rains, Andre Dawson and Warren Cromartie. It may have been the best outfield in the big leagues at that time. There was no room to move up in the organization unless one of these three got hurt or traded. My regret after leaving the Expos is turning down a Double A contract from the San Francisco Giants that would have extended my baseball career.
While sports have been a huge part of my life, nothing has given me as much competitive joy as bass fishing. As a kid growing up on a ranch, there was no shortage of stock ponds to fish. I basically learned on my own, along with reading Bassmaster Magazine stories on how to catch bass.
I have spent hundreds of days fishing the banks of five different stock ponds loaded with good bass. I was always so proud to bring a stringer full of bass back home for a good fish fry.
Tournament bass fishing has given me much joy over the past 36 years especially with all the friends I have met and shared so many good times while fishing tournament trails and fishing some of the best lakes in the country.
Another joy in my life has been the creation of the Hook’N Up & Track’N Down Show. This was a brainstorm of mine back in 2007 that I felt was much needed. Nineteen years later, the show is still going strong! Each week for 52 weeks out of the year I get to talk about issues related to God’s great outdoors. My relationship with my two other co-hosts, Gary McCoy and Mike Echols, makes doing the program so enjoyable.
But my greatest joy came the day I signed a scholarship to continue my athletic career/education to Northwestern State University where I met Sherrie, my wife of 44 years. We then celebrated the births of our three children Brittany, Meredith and Brandon.
To this day, raising of these three blessings has been my greatest accomplishment and one that has ZERO regrets!
Each of us has so many events or situations over the course of a lifetime that we can look back on with either joy or regret. As life continues to give us both good and bad times, just the fact that we are still waking up every day means we have so much joy to look forward to, and hopefully no regrets.
Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com.
April 8 has marked several significant turning points in global history, from groundbreaking scientific achievements to the loss of influential leaders whose legacies continue to shape modern society.
One of the most notable events tied to this date occurred in 1974, when Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s long-standing home run record by hitting his 715th career home run. The moment was more than a sports milestone—it represented perseverance and dignity in the face of intense racial hostility. Aaron’s achievement became a defining moment in American sports history and a symbol of progress during a turbulent era.
April 8 is also remembered for the death of Margaret Thatcher in 2013, the United Kingdom’s first female prime minister. Known as the “Iron Lady,” Thatcher served from 1979 to 1990 and played a key role in reshaping British economic policy through deregulation and privatization. Her leadership remains a subject of debate, but her impact on global politics is undeniable.
In science and exploration, April 8, 1960, marked the introduction of the first weather satellite system capable of transmitting cloud images from space. This advancement revolutionized meteorology, providing forecasters with unprecedented tools to predict storms and monitor climate patterns. Today’s satellite technology traces its roots back to these early innovations.
April 8 also carries significance in civil rights history. In 1968, just days after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King led a silent march in Memphis, continuing her husband’s work and demonstrating the enduring strength of the movement. The march drew thousands and reinforced calls for justice and equality.
From sports achievements to political leadership and scientific breakthroughs, April 8 stands as a date marked by resilience, innovation, and lasting influence across multiple fields.