When you hear ‘Peach Festival’, you may picture baskets of fuzzy peaches, maybe a peach cobbler bake-off, or even a parade. But here in Ruston, the Louisiana Peach Festival is so much more than just a celebration of our locally grown fruit. It is a time to experience the rich tradition and culture that can only be found in our small historic town. Residents and visitors alike come for this special day, filled with activities that keep people coming back year to year. This year’s Peach Festival in Ruston is Saturday, June 6.

Here are 5 ways that the Peach Festival exceeds just peach appreciation (although, we love our peaches too):

1. A Love Letter to Louisiana Culture

Area artists, vendors, musicians, and makers are the forefront of what makes this festival thrive. Browsing our curated arts market with 90+ artists of all mediums allows you to get a glimpse into the vibrant arts of our state. And you can’t miss the music! Louisiana-based musicians play on the Railroad Park Stage to ensure the spirit of the festival carries on into the night. Celebrate our Louisiana roots with us, and dive into what makes our culture so unique.

2. The Food Scene Goes Full Peach (In the Best Way Possible)

Here in Ruston, we pride ourselves on the quality and diversity of our local restaurants and food trucks. The creativity of Ruston’s culinary scene is unmatched, and the sweet peach flavor is no exception. In the week leading up to the festival, 30+ local restaurants come together for the Peach Culinary Crawl, featuring unexpected dishes, drinks, and pairings. From a peach caprese turkey melt to a pint of locally-brewed peach wheat ale, indulge your tastebuds with this staple, seasonal ingredient.

3. It Still Holds Tight to Its Sweet Southern Traditions

Of course, it would not be a southern festival without all of the classic contests and exhibits. The Peach Pageant, Peach Parade, Antique Car Show, Peach Rodeo, Peach Art Exhibit, and Cookery Contest are all ways that the community engages with the roots of the festival. These fun traditions have been happening for generations, and plan to stay for many, many more. The Ruston community continues to add to these celebrations, with sidewalk sales, a 5K race, and even a Pickleball Tournament. All these traditions keep the festival feeling like a small town gathering, keeping it close to the hearts of our residents and visitors.

4. It’s One of the Few Festivals Where You Don’t Feel Nickel-and-Dimed

The Peach Festival prides itself on having free admission, making it accessible for a Saturday full of activities. In Kids Alley, there are no paid vendors, allowing all kiddos to enjoy hands-on crafts, games, entertainment, and more festival activities. It is the perfect opportunity to bring the family out for fun that won’t break the bank. Our goal is to make the festival easy and accessible for all ages to enjoy!

5. It Feels More Like a Community Gathering Than a Carnival

No flashy rides or ferris wheels here – the Peach Festival provides something even more memorable. Surrounded by the painted murals of downtown, local organizations, and all the friendly volunteers, it’s easy to feel like a part of the Ruston community that we know and love. With festivities happening from morning to late into the night, you have plenty of time to experience the festival at your own pace. So bring out your lawn chair, grab a bite, listen to the music, and enjoy all the sights and sounds of our community. 

The traditions, culture, and hospitality surrounding this celebration reminds us that this isn’t just a festival, but a signature kind of Southern experience you don’t find everywhere. The peach flavor is just the tip of the iceberg to all of the sweetness of peach season in Ruston, LA. 

For more information on the 76th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival and to see the full schedule of events, visit www.lapeachfest.com/. 

Today’s kids are booked, busy, and burned out—but one parent is asking if it’s time to bring back a simpler, slower kind of childhood.

 See what Ida says 

NATCHITOCHES PARISH:
(Statewide below)

PW Prop. No. 1 of 3 (Library) — 8 Mills Renewal – PC – 10 Yrs.

FULL text on the ballot:

Shall the Parish of Natchitoches, State of Louisiana (the “Parish”), continue to levy and collect a special tax of 8 mills on all property subject to taxation in the Parish (an estimated $3,624,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2028 and ending with the year 2037, for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, improving, renovating, maintaining and/or operating public libraries in the Parish, including automation and other equipment, library materials and furnishings therefor?

PW Prop. No. 2 of 3 (Health Unit) — 3 Mills Ext. & Reded. – PC – 10 Yrs.

FULL text on the ballot:

Shall the Parish of Natchitoches, State of Louisiana (the “Parish”), continue to levy and collect a special tax of 3 mills (the “Tax”) on all property subject to taxation in the Parish (an estimated $1,359,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the Tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2028 and ending with the year 2037, with the proceeds of the Tax heretofore or hereafter collected to be used for the purposes of constructing, improving, maintaining, and operating public health units in the Parish, and for any other lawful purpose of the Parish?

PW Prop. No. 3 of 3 (Public Buildings) — 3 Mills Renewal – PC – 10 Yrs.

FULL text on the ballot:

Shall the Parish of Natchitoches, State of Louisiana (the “Parish”), continue to levy and collect a special tax of 3 mills on all property subject to taxation in the Parish (an estimated $1,359,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2028 and ending with the year 2037, for the purpose of maintaining and operating public buildings in the Parish?

Road Dist. No. 40 — 5 Mills Renewal – PC – 10 Yrs.

FULL text on the ballot:

Shall Road District No. 40 of the Parish of Natchitoches, State of Louisiana (the “District”), continue to levy and collect a special tax of 5 mills on all property subject to taxation in the District (an estimated $1,514,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2028 and ending with the year 2037, for the purpose of constructing, improving and maintaining public roads and highways in the District?

Village of Goldonna — 1% S&U Tax – M&BOA – 10 Yrs.

FULL text on the ballot:

Shall the Village of Goldonna, State of Louisiana (the “Village”), be authorized to levy and collect a 1% sales and use tax (the “Tax”) in accordance with Louisiana law (an estimated $25,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the Tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning July 1, 2026, with the proceeds of the Tax (after paying the reasonable and necessary expenses of collecting and administering the Tax) to be dedicated and used for maintaining, repairing, improving, and equipping of the Village Community Center, previously known as the Goldonna Elementary-Junior High School?

STATEWIDE:

Louisiana voters will head to the polls on May 16 to consider five proposed amendments to the state constitution. These proposals, passed during the 2025 regular legislative session, cover a range of issues including civil service protections, school district creation, educator compensation, and judicial retirement ages.

To be enacted, each amendment must receive a majority vote at the polls. Two of the five proposals seek to adjust Article VII, the “money section” of the constitution, which remains the most frequently amended portion of the document.

The following is a summary of the five amendments appearing on the ballot:

Amendment 1: Civil Service Reclassification This amendment would allow the Louisiana Legislature to remove specific state government positions from the classified civil service system through state law. Currently, such changes require approval from the State Civil Service Commission. Supporters argue this would provide agencies with the flexibility to manage workers like the private sector, while opponents fear it could lead to increased political patronage and corruption.

Amendment 2: St. George Community School System Voters are asked to authorize the creation of the St. George Community School System in East Baton Rouge Parish, separating it from the existing parishwide district. If approved, the new district would begin operations in July 2027 with the same authority as other parish school districts. Proponents believe a smaller district will increase local ownership and oversight, whereas opponents argue the fragmentation will lead to increased administrative costs and further segregation.

Amendment 3: Teacher Pay and Retirement Debt This proposal seeks to dissolve three education trust funds—containing approximately $2 billion—to pay down a portion of the Teachers’ Retirement System of Louisiana debt. The resulting savings in annual retirement payments would be used to fund a permanent $2,250 raise for teachers and a $1,125 raise for support staff. Supporters note the maneuver would save the state an estimated $1 billion in interest over time, while opponents express concern over the loss of a protected, perpetual revenue stream for education programs.

Amendment 4: Business Inventory Property Taxes Amendment 4 would grant local governments the authority to reduce or eliminate property taxes on business inventory. Parishes that choose to permanently exempt inventory before July 2027 would be eligible for a one-time state incentive payment ranging from $500,000 to $15 million. Supporters argue the tax makes Louisiana uncompetitive for economic development, while opponents caution that losing this revenue could create financial gaps for essential local services like law enforcement and schools.

Amendment 5: Judicial Retirement Age The final amendment on the ballot proposes raising the mandatory retirement age for Louisiana judges from 70 to 75. Under the proposal, a judge who turns 75 while in office would be permitted to complete their current term. Proponents argue the change accounts for increased life expectancy and preserves institutional knowledge, while opponents contend that an age limit is necessary to maintain public confidence in the judiciary.

Dear Fellow Citizens, 

I’m John Fleming, your State Treasurer and Republican candidate for U.S. Senate.

This Saturday’s election is extremely important. DC lobbyists and Baton Rouge elites have poured millions into supporting their preferred candidate — NOT ME. 

At stake is the carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) industry’s push to use YOUR tax dollars to seize YOUR private land through eminent domain.  Estimates suggest that up to 75% of the nation’s CO2 emissions could be pumped beneath our lands, lakes, and rivers – ‘captured’ for eternity. The whole thing is a “Green New Deal” scam, which will make the elites wealthier at the expense of the rest of us.  I am the only candidate who is 100% opposed to this fraud and abuse.  

Don’t be fooled! The establishment and powers that be are trying to buy our Louisiana Senate seat. I can’t be bought, bribed, or bullied! 

Our future, and the future of our children and grandchildren, hangs in the balance. Please don’t sit this one out — vote this Saturday, May 16th.   Polls open at 7:00 a.m. 

Thank you,

John Fleming
Louisiana State Treasurer
Republican Candidate for the US Senate 

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BOM Receives USDA Rural Lender of the Year for the Fifth Time!

USDA updates lender list for rural guaranteed loan program

After 22 years of shared finances, a new disagreement puts one couple at odds: should they help an adult son with car payments, or protect their retirement?

 See what Ida says 

Oil and gas activity in Natchitoches Parish remained robust through the month of April, with eighty (80) new leases filed at the Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court office.

While a majority of the leasing activity continues to be concentrated in the western portion of the parish—stretching from the intersection of Interstate 49 and Highway 6 to the Sabine Parish line, and extending ten miles north toward the Spanish Lake bottoms—new developments are emerging.

A significant shift in recent activity includes the first signs of leasing on the east side of I-49. Additionally, while the primary focus remains west, energy companies are also expanding their footprint with new filings recorded south of LA Hwy 6.

In addition to the rise in lease filings, an upcoming public meeting has been scheduled for May 18 to discuss a proposed 3D seismic graphing project. The survey is expected to cover approximately 310 square miles, the majority of which is located within Natchitoches Parish.

The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express, located at 5137 University Parkway.

Landowners who have been approached with lease offers or seismic survey requests are encouraged to consult with qualified legal counsel before signing any agreements, as these contracts can have long-term implications for mineral and surface rights.

A review of Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court records confirms the 80 leases filed in April 2026. The NPJ obtained this information directly from the parish’s online Public Records system.

Total Leases filed in calendar year 2025: 405
Total Leases filed in calendar year 2026 203

Proposal sparks discussion on experience, longevity, and the future of Louisiana’s courts

By Journal Staff

Voters across Louisiana will consider Amendment 5 on the May 16, 2026 ballot, a proposal that would increase the mandatory retirement age for judges from 70 to 75.

If approved, the change would allow judges to complete full terms—some as long as 10 years depending on the court—provided they have not reached their 75th birthday at the time of service.

A Shift Reflecting Longer Lifespans

Supporters of the amendment point to a broader societal trend: Americans are living longer and remaining professionally active later in life than when the current retirement limit was established decades ago.

Under the existing system, judges who reach age 70 are required to step down, regardless of their health, performance, or desire to continue serving. Proponents argue that this can lead to the loss of experienced jurists at a time when institutional knowledge and continuity are valuable to the court system.

Continued Service Beyond the Bench

Even under current law, many retired judges remain involved in the legal system, often serving in temporary or ad hoc capacities to assist with caseloads. Backers of Amendment 5 say the proposal would formalize and extend that opportunity, allowing qualified judges to remain in full-time roles longer rather than transitioning to limited assignments.

Broad Support Across Legal Circles

The amendment has drawn backing from various members of Louisiana’s legal community, including attorneys, judicial organizations, and others who cite the benefits of experience and stability on the bench.

Advocates emphasize that the proposal does not eliminate voter oversight. Judges would still be required to stand for election, meaning the public retains the ability to decide whether a candidate—regardless of age—should continue serving.

Considerations for Voters

As with any constitutional amendment, the decision ultimately rests with voters. Amendment 5 raises broader questions about balancing experience with generational turnover, as well as how best to structure long-term service in the judiciary.

Voters will have the opportunity to weigh those factors when they head to the polls on May 16.

She’s not just a nervous flyer anymore—she’s dreading every trip. With family and work pulling her cross-country, is it time to face her fears or stay grounded for good?

 See what Ida says 

May 10, 2025 — April 27, 2026

Funeral services for Marshall Luke Parrie, 11 months, will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond St, Zwolle, Louisiana. A visitation will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A burial will follow the service at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Officiating the service will be Father Keith Garvin.

Marshall was born on May 10, 2025 to Konner Thomas Parrie and Mary Ellen Myers Parrie in Shreveport, Louisiana and passed away on Monday, April 27, 2026 at his home in Pelican, Louisiana.

Marshall’s life was short but very full. He was baptized and attended St. Joseph Catholic Church in Zwolle. Marshall had a beautiful smile that will be missed. He loved walks on the farm, side by side rides, and anything outdoors. He has been fishing, hunting, haying cows, feeding chickens, and harvesting honey. Reading books was one of Marshall’s favorite playtime activities. Above all else, with his parents was his favorite place to be.

Marshall is preceded in death by his grandfather, Robert Marshall Myers and great-grandparents, James Glen Myers, Ray and Mildred Fisher, and Amos and Charlene Parrie.

He is survived by his parents, Konner and Mary Ellen Parrie; grandparents, Gordon and Lanea Parrie and Tammy Myers; uncles, Khristian Parrie and Kamron Parrie; aunt, Emily Myers; great-grandparents, Kathleen Myers and Thomas and Connie Sepulvado; great-great-grandmother, Doris Leone; and a host of family and friends.

Honoring Marshall as pallbearers will be Holden Rivers, Dallas Britt, Keaton Collins, Pete Gentry, Christopher Ezernack, and Ty Leone.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Shelley Cox FNP-C and The Pediatric Center of Many, Texas Children’s Hospital, St. Jude Clinic in Shreveport, Louisiana, Ochsner LSU – St. Mary, and Hospice of Natchitoches.

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

Please vote Yes for Constitutional Amendment 5 on the ballot for May 16. The amendment raises the age of retirement for Judges in Louisiana to 75 years, from the current 70-year retirement mandate. The reasons are simple.

• The voters are best suited to decide if a candidate should continue to serve.
• Experienced, highly qualified Judges are being forced into retirement.
• People are living longer productive lives and working longer.
• No other political office has a mandatory retirement age.
• By Supreme Court oversight, incompetent Judges can already be removed.

While the amendment does not put an end to what can only be called age bias, it does soften its effect. Voting Yes to raise the age is simply the right thing to do. In this election cycle alone, some 60 Judges of the approximately 360 in the State are being forced to retire. While some are doing so voluntarily, many others have an earnest desire to continue to serve the people of this great state. They should have the opportunity to do so, and it should be up to the voters to decide if they can continue, not some arbitrary age limit.

Early voting starts May 2 and ends May 9.

For more information go to http://www.yeson5for75.com

Thank you for your consideration.

Judge Van H. Kyzar

By: Jason Pugh, Associate Athletic Director for External Relations

NATCHITOCHES – The Northwestern State athletic department and Rhodes Properties and Development have partnered to create a unique opportunity for fans and supporters of Demon athletics.

The two entities have combined to present the 2026 Rhodes Properties and Development Demon Dream Home giveaway – a raffle that will see the winner collect a brand-new Rhodes-built home in the Hidden Oak subdivision in Natchitoches, located along Louisiana Highway 3191.

Raffle tickets will be sold for $100 each beginning May 4 and can be purchased through Northwestern athletes or online through www.NSUDemons.com. The live drawing will take place Nov. 6 at Riverside Reserve in Natchitoches with additional prizes awarded at the event.

Proceeds from the raffle will go toward the Northwestern athletic department in support of its student-athletes.

“Working hand-in-hand with Rhodes Properties and Development to bring the Demon Dream Home to life was an easy decision,” Director of Athletics Kevin Bostian said. “Their support of Northwestern State athletics never has been in question, but it has reached another level with this partnership. We are far beyond grateful for Rhodes Properties and Development for their input and expertise in this process.”

The home, valued at $265,000, is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom, 1,450-square foot heated building in one of Natchitoches’ newest subdivisions that Rhodes Properties and Development and Rhodes Realty began developing in early 2026. Hidden Oak subdivision is located near Sibley Lake, west of Louisiana Highway 1 in Natchitoches.

“We at Rhodes Properties and Development, alongside Rhodes Realty, understand the importance of the Northwestern State athletic program to the Natchitoches community,” Rhodes Properties and Development owners and operators James and Justin Rhodes said. “We believe in the vision of Northwestern State athletics and where it is going. We presented this opportunity to Kevin as our way to support nearly 400 student-athletes as well as the coaches and staff members with whom we have developed relationships. The vendors who will help us bring this home to life share that same vision. Being involved in all facets of this project allows us to continue to demonstrate our commitment to Northwestern State and Natchitoches.”

Purchase Raffle Tickets: https://nsudemons.com/

“When a mother realizes her child is watching history unfold in real time—and feeling afraid—she faces a question no parent is ever quite prepared to answer: how do you explain a frightening world without making it feel even more dangerous?”

 See what Ida says 

By Richard Searles, Journal Contributor

State faces record 6,465 orphaned wells, a cleanup bill that could top $1 billion, and a broken oversight system

Louisiana’s oil patch is leaving behind a growing legacy of abandoned wells that leak, contaminate groundwater and cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars — and on a per capita basis, the state’s problem is more than four times worse than Texas, which has drawn national attention for the same issue.

As of March 2025, Louisiana has 6,465 orphaned oil and gas wells — unplugged, abandoned sites with no responsible operator — according to the state Department of Conservation and Energy. Texas has approximately 10,029 orphaned wells, according to its Railroad Commission. But Texas has nearly seven times Louisiana’s population. Louisiana has roughly one orphaned well for every 711 residents. Texas has one for every 3,130. Louisiana’s per capita burden is more than four times heavier.

The Numbers Are Accelerating

Between 2014 and 2023, the Louisiana Legislative Auditor found that an average of about 445 wells were added to the orphaned list each year. In 2025, more than 1,600 wells were added — more than three times the historical annual average. In just the first months of 2026, another 517 wells have already been added.

Behind those orphaned wells sits an even larger problem: inactive wells not yet orphaned but at risk. The Legislative Auditor found the inactive well count climbed 21.7 percent from 2019 to 2024, reaching 21,629 statewide.

What It Will Cost — and Why the Numbers Differ

The cleanup bill has been reported in different ways, and understanding why requires a distinction between two categories of problem wells.

The first is the orphaned well count itself — the 6,500 wells with no responsible operator. The Louisiana Legislative Auditor places the average plugging cost at $113,000 per well. Multiplied across the current orphaned well list, that produces the widely cited $730 million figure.

But that number covers only orphaned wells. A July 2025 white paper from the LSU Center for Energy Studies, commissioned by the state, calculated that plugging and abandoning both orphaned and idle wells in just the Monroe and Shreveport regulatory districts — two of Louisiana’s three oil and gas districts — would cost approximately $860 million. The Lafayette district, which holds roughly 41 percent of the state’s total orphaned and idle well inventory, was not included in that estimate. When all three districts and all idle wells are accounted for, the total cost to Louisiana taxpayers could well exceed $1 billion.

Since 2023, the state has plugged just 490 orphaned wells at a combined cost of nearly $90 million in state and federal funds — far behind the pace needed to make meaningful progress.

The Oversight System Failed

Louisiana’s attempt to manage the problem through a private industry-led entity collapsed. The Louisiana Oilfield Restoration Association, created in 2019 to collect operator fees and fund plugging activity, was dissolved after a state audit found it falling far behind — and after allegations of self-dealing that included a $780,000 loan to a state official. An audit also found the association’s administrative partner was charging a 36 percent fee on revenues, nearly double the agreed cap. During fiscal years 2020 through 2023, the state plugged 976 orphaned wells through the program. During that same period, nearly 1,700 new orphaned wells were reported — meaning the system was losing ground even while operating.

The Louisiana Legislature responded in 2024 by creating the Natural Resources Trust Authority under the Department of Conservation and Energy, tasked with rebuilding oversight and funding. Financial security requirements — the bonds operators must post to cover future plugging costs — remain a structural weakness. Though coverage rose from 25 percent of wells in 2014 to 74 percent by 2024, the Legislative Auditor found the amounts collected still fall well short of actual plugging costs.

The Bottom Line

Louisiana is producing new orphaned wells faster than it can plug old ones, carrying a per capita orphaned well burden more than four times that of Texas, and facing a total cleanup bill that state and university researchers suggest could exceed $1 billion when all idle and orphaned wells statewide are fully accounted for. The consequences — contaminated groundwater, leaking methane, degraded land — fall most heavily on the rural communities where these wells are concentrated.

Sources: Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy; Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office; LSU Center for Energy Studies, “Orphan and Idle Wells in Louisiana,” July 2025; Texas Railroad Commission; Louisiana Illuminator.

This is story from a book entitled “Moments for Mothers.” The Rogers family was a strong Christian unit. Mr. Rogers took seriously his role as spiritual leader. Often at supper the family would have a Bible quiz or discuss some spiritual truth. One evening the family was discussing what heaven will be like. 7-year-old Jimmy grabbed this subject and ran with it; he had a very creative imagination.

Jimmy said, “When we get to heaven, the big angel will call the roll. He will come to the Rogers family and say, ‘Daddy Rogers’ and Daddy will say ‘Here! ‘. Then the angel will call out, ‘Mommy Rogers,’ and Mommy will say, ‘Here! ” Then the same thing will happen for Susie and Mavis. Then the angel will call my name, “Jimmy Rogers,” and because I’m little and don’t want to be missed, I will jump up and shout real loud, ‘Here!’”

Just a few days later, there was a tragic accident. A car struck down Jimmy as he made his way to the school bus. He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. The family gathered round his bed and kept a prayerful vigil through the night. The doctors told them that he had suffered severe brain damage and could not recover.

Just before dawn, Jimmy seemed to be stirring a bit. The family saw his lips move; just one word was all he uttered before he passed from this life. But oh what comfort and hope that word gave for this grieving family. In a voice clear enough for everybody in the room to hear, Jimmy said, “Here!!” and then he was gone, to another world, to a better world, where a big angel was calling the roll.

We Christians believe this is true. It is why we can live with hope in the midst of such a crazy world. We know that we are all pilgrims, simply passing through this life. Our home is in heaven.

Easter people believe that one day we will all answer, “Here!”

“At what point does daycare cost more than your job is worth?”

 See what Ida says 

Many and Sabine Parish residents will have the opportunity to celebrate God and country on Thursday, April 17, at the Many Community Center.

The talented Amazing Rhythm Disciples Band will present America’s Faith Concert in honor of America’s 250^th Anniversary.

The music will start at 6:00 p.m. at the Many Community Center.  Rodney Harrington, leader of the band, said the music will be about family and country, two important values to all Americans.

Harrington also had some good news to share.  “Because we have some faithful and supportive sponsors, admission to the concert will be free to everyone.”

Concert sponsors are The Harrington Law Firm, Foy Chevrolet, Anna Garcie for District Attorney, Sabine State Bank, and Buddy Wood State Farm Insurance.

“Let’s show everyone how much our people love God and country by showing up for this joyful evening of music here in Many,” said Many Mayor Robert Hable.

The Amazing Rhythm Disciples is the first in a number of planned programs throughout Many and Sabine Parish to celebrate the 250^th Anniversary of the United States of America.

The Melrose Arts and Crafts Show scheduled for this weekend, April 18-19, has been canceled due to the threat of severe weather and high winds, which is a safety concern for vendors, attendees and staff. The show has been rescheduled for Oct. 10–11, 2026. 

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 29^th 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

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