Voters across Sabine Parish went to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, to decide several local elections, including district attorney, school board, justice of the peace, constable, police chief and municipal council races.

According to unofficial results from the Louisiana Secretary of State, all Election Day precincts and early and absentee voting returns have been reported for the contests listed below.

In the 11th Judicial District Attorney’s race, Anna Garcie received 57% of the vote against Ronald D. Brandon, who received 43%, according to the reported Sabine Parish returns.

In the Zwolle police chief’s race, Daniel Thomas received 77% of the vote against David R. “Roach” Remedies, who received 23%.

Voters also selected five members of the Zwolle Town Council from a field of nine candidates, while the Town of Many’s District A alderman race was decided by a margin of 23 votes.

The following results are UNOFFICIAL and remain subject to certification.

Sabine Parish Local Election Results

District Attorney — 11th Judicial District Court

Reporting: Early and absentee complete | 27 of 27 precincts reporting

Candidate	Votes	Percent
Anna Garcie (REP)	4,455	57%
Ronald D. Brandon (REP)	3,411	43%
Total	7,866	100%

Unofficial Turnout: 57.6%

Note: This contest is identified as a multiparish race. The figures above reflect the Sabine Parish returns provided.

Member of School Board — District 2

Reporting: Early and absentee complete | 4 of 4 precincts reporting

Candidate	Votes	Percent
Melissa B. Vines (REP)	894	88%
Harvey Spikes (DEM)	120	12%
Total	1,014	100%

Unofficial Turnout: 61.1%

Member of School Board — District 8

Reporting: Early and absentee complete | 2 of 2 precincts reporting

Candidate	Votes	Percent
Susan Rains (DEM)	514	64%
Jermaine Thomas (NOPTY)	285	36%
Total	799	100%

Unofficial Turnout: 56.7%

Justice of the Peace — Justice of the Peace & Constable District 4

Reporting: Early and absentee complete | 5 of 5 precincts reporting

Candidate	Votes	Percent
Chasity Mitchell Meshell (REP)	507	63%
Ashley Garcie (REP)	296	37%
Total	803	100%

Unofficial Turnout: 52.1%

Constable — Justice of the Peace & Constable District 1

Reporting: Early and absentee complete | 8 of 8 precincts reporting

Candidate	Votes	Percent
Joe Dewil, Jr. (NOPTY)	1,039	78%
Joey J. “Hook” Huval (NOPTY)	292	22%
Total	1,331	100%

Unofficial Turnout: 56.4%

Chief of Police — Town of Zwolle

Reporting: Early and absentee complete | 2 of 2 precincts reporting

Candidate	Votes	Percent
Daniel Thomas (DEM)	418	77%
David R. “Roach” Remedies (NOPTY)	124	23%
Total	542	100%

Unofficial Turnout: 57.7%

Alderman — District A, Town of Many

Reporting: Early and absentee complete | 2 of 2 precincts reporting

Candidate	Votes	Percent
James D. Kennedy (DEM)	90	57%
Colette N. Parson (DEM)	67	43%
Total	157	100%

Unofficial Turnout: 45.2%

Councilmen — Town of Zwolle

Five to be elected

Reporting: Early and absentee complete | 2 of 2 precincts reporting

Candidate	Votes	Percent
Charles W. Miller (NOPTY)	359	15%
Allen Rivers (DEM)	313	13%
Jane Rivers (REP)	312	13%
Donald “Hootie” Remedies (REP)	278	12%
Randel “Randy” Sepulvado (REP)	240	10%
Darlene Frazier (DEM)	233	10%
Harry Babers (DEM)	226	9%
James M. Hubbard (REP)	217	9%
Sandra “Love” Newton (DEM)	202	8%
Total	2,380

Unofficial Turnout: 50.7%

The five highest vote recipients in the Zwolle Town Council race were Charles W. Miller, Allen Rivers, Jane Rivers, Donald “Hootie” Remedies and Randel “Randy” Sepulvado.

Miller led the nine-candidate field with 359 votes, followed by Allen Rivers with 313 and Jane Rivers with 312.

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About These Results

All contests listed above have reported 100% of their Election Day precincts, along with early and absentee voting results.

Candidates are listed in order of votes received, with the leading candidates shown in bold. In the Zwolle Town Council race, the five candidates receiving the highest vote totals are identified based on the number of positions to be filled.

The percentages shown are those reported by the Louisiana Secretary of State and may not total exactly 100% because of rounding.

All results are unofficial and subject to certification.

Source: Louisiana Secretary of State — Unofficial Election Results, Nov. 3, 2026.

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For more than six decades, Better Finance has built its business around a simple idea:

Financial services should still be personal.

Founded in 1964, Better Finance has served generations of customers in Coushatta and Northwest Louisiana, helping individuals and families find financial solutions for needs that do not always fit neatly into a traditional banking relationship.

Sometimes the need is unexpected.

A vehicle may need repairs. A medical expense may arise. A household purchase may become necessary sooner than planned.

Other times, the need may involve consolidating debt, making home improvements or financing a larger purchase.

Whatever the reason, Better Finance believes the process should begin with understanding the customer and the need.

Local Service Still Matters

Financial services have changed dramatically since Better Finance opened its doors in 1964.

Today, many lending decisions begin with an online application, an automated system and very little personal interaction.

Technology can make financial services convenient, but Better Finance believes there is still value in being able to talk with someone.

That is especially important when a customer’s circumstances may require more explanation than a form can provide.

Better Finance’s approach is built around local service, personal relationships and taking the time to understand each customer’s individual situation.

Helping With Real-Life Needs

Financial needs can take many forms.

For some customers, a personal loan may help address an unexpected expense.

For others, financing may be used for debt consolidation, home improvements, large purchases or other personal needs.

The reason for borrowing may be different from one customer to the next, which is why Better Finance believes lending should not feel like a one-size-fits-all process.

The goal is to help qualified customers explore options that fit their circumstances and budget.

More Than a Transaction

Better Finance has remained part of the Northwest Louisiana community for more than 60 years because relationships matter.

A customer is more than an application.

A loan is more than a transaction.

And good service does not end once paperwork is signed.

For many customers, having a local financial company they know and can contact directly provides something that is increasingly difficult to find in a highly automated financial world.

It provides a relationship.

A Tradition Since 1964

Better Finance’s longevity is part of its story.

Businesses do not serve a community for more than six decades without earning relationships along the way.

Since 1964, Better Finance has continued to serve customers while maintaining the same basic philosophy: listen, understand the need and provide personal service.

As Better Finance introduces itself to more communities across Northwest Louisiana, that philosophy remains unchanged.

If you have a financial need, the first step may simply be a conversation.

Better Finance — Fast. Simple. Local.

To learn more about Better Finance and available personal loan options, visit CoushattaFinance.com or call 318-932-4244.

This is a paid advertorial provided on behalf of Better Finance. Loan approval, terms and availability are subject to Better Finance lending requirements and applicable laws.

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Local voters head to the ballot box today, with neighborhood precincts open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. State law ensures that anyone waiting in line by 8 p.m. is permitted to vote.

Area residents should verify their designated polling precinct and review a sample ballot before heading out by using the GeauxVote mobile app or visiting GeauxVote.com.

When checking in at your precinct, election commissioners will request an approved photo ID, such as a Louisiana driver’s license, a state special identification card, the LA Wallet app, or a U.S. military ID. Voters who do not have an approved photo ID can still cast their ballot by completing a standard voter identification affidavit with election workers.

Local election officials ask voters to show patience and respect toward our community’s poll workers and commissioners. With multiple local and state candidate races alongside ballot measures, selections may take longer to complete, which can cause lines at peak hours.

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Louisiana voters head to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 3, with precincts opening at 6 a.m. and closing at 8 p.m. statewide. Under state law, any voter waiting in line by 8 p.m. is permitted to cast a ballot.

The Louisiana Secretary of State’s office urges voters to check their precinct locations and review a sample ballot before arriving at the polls by using the GeauxVote mobile app or visiting GeauxVote.com.

Voters are also asked to practice patience and show courtesy toward election commissioners and precinct workers. Because ballots feature numerous candidate races and proposed constitutional amendments, voters may need extra time to complete their selections, potentially extending wait times at polling locations.

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At 2:00 am on Sunday, November 1st, Louisiana residents must set their clocks back one hour as Daylight Saving Time ends. Known as the time to “Fall Back” it is the second clock adjustment made each year to shift an hour of sunlight from the morning to the evening, aligning natural daylight with normal human waking and working. On March 8, residents “Spring Forward” and set their clocks ahead one hour.

While the United States implemented temporary daylight saving measures during World War I and World War II, and Congress passed the Uniform Time Act in 1966, records show that the first time that started recognizing Daylight Saving Time was in 1970. Louisiana passed Act 133 in 2020 to make Daylight Saving Time permanent year-round, but the change cannot take effect until Congress amends the federal Uniform Time Act

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Sunday, November 1, Daylight saving time (DST) ends as all but a few states set back their clocks by one hour.

DST is the practice of advancing clocks by one hour during warmer months so that evening daylight lasts longer.

Current Schedule in the U.S.

• Starts: Second Sunday in March at 2 a.m. (clocks move forward 1 hour).
• Ends: First Sunday in November at 2 a.m. (clocks move back 1 hour to standard time).

Most of Arizona and Hawaii, along with U.S. Territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands to not observe DST.

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United Way of Northwest Louisiana is partnering with Entergy Louisiana to help eligible households manage rising household costs through a new utility bill assistance program. Beginning Wednesday, October 28, at 9 a.m., eligible Entergy Louisiana residential customers can apply for a one-time $100 credit toward their utility bill while funding remains available.

Funded through a $2 million investment from Entergy shareholder dollars, the statewide program is designed to help residential customers experiencing financial hardship, with priority given to ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households. ALICE households earn above the federal poverty level but still struggle to afford basic costs of living, including housing, food, transportation and utilities. This assistance is intended to help bridge the gap for working households who may not qualify for traditional assistance but still face challenges making ends meet.

For many families across Northwest Louisiana, rising costs can make it increasingly difficult to keep up with everyday expenses. Through this partnership, United Way of Northwest Louisiana will help connect eligible residents with available assistance and provide opportunities for in-person support throughout the region.

The program is available to eligible Entergy Louisiana residential customers in the following six Northwest Louisiana parishes:

Bienville
Claiborne
Natchitoches
Sabine

Applicants must complete an online application and provide a photo ID, along with income documentation for each income earner age 18 or older. Accepted documentation includes the first page of a 2025 tax return, 2025 W-2 forms, recent pay stubs, or qualifying Social Security Administration forms or benefit-determination letters.

Applications will be accepted through Friday, November 13, 2026, at 12 p.m. (noon). Applicants should monitor their email regularly after submitting an application, as additional supporting documentation may be requested. All requested documentation must be received by Friday, November 20, 2026, at 12 p.m. (noon). Documentation received after the deadline will not be considered.

Funding is limited, and submitting an application does not guarantee that assistance will be awarded.

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Early voting for the Nov. 3, 2026, election officially closed in Sabine Parish on Tuesday, Oct. 27, with 2,716 ballots cast during the seven-day early voting period.

According to the Louisiana Secretary of State’s final early voting statistical report, 2,337 voters cast their ballots in person, while 379 absentee ballots were recorded.

With early voting now closed, voters who have not yet cast their ballots may vote on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at their assigned polling locations.

Voter Demographics

The demographic breakdown for Sabine Parish’s seven-day early voting period is as follows:

• Race: 2,165 White voters, 258 Black voters, and 293 voters identified as Other.
• Sex: 1,487 Female voters and 1,227 Male voters.

Party Affiliation

Republicans represented the largest turnout group during the early voting period:

• Republicans: 1,659
• Democrats: 584
• Other/Other Parties: 473 (460 No Party/Independent voters and 13 affiliated with other parties)

Final Seven-Day Early Voting Recap

With the seven-day early voting period complete, a total of 2,716 ballots were recorded in Sabine Parish.

Category	Total
Total Votes	2,716
In-Person	2,337
Absentee	379
Republicans	1,659
Democrats	584
Other Parties	473

Note: The Other Parties category combines voters registered with no party affiliation and those registered with other political parties.

Election Day Information

Although early voting has ended, the election is not over.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Voters who have not already voted should report to their assigned Election Day polling locations, which may differ from early voting locations.

For eligible absentee voters, the deadline to request an absentee ballot is Friday, Oct. 30, at 4:30 p.m. Completed absentee ballots must be received by the parish registrar of voters by Monday, Nov. 2, at 4:30 p.m., except for certain military, overseas and other qualifying voters.

The 2,716 ballots reported represent Sabine Parish’s recorded turnout through the close of early voting. Additional eligible absentee ballots may still be received before Election Day.

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Local readership creates opportunities for businesses, organizations and community events across Louisiana

Every day, residents throughout Northwest and Central Louisiana turn to their Parish Journals to find out what’s happening in their communities.

They read about local government, schools, high school sports, community activities, public announcements and the people who make their hometowns special.

Some arrive through their free email subscriptions. Others have bookmarked their favorite Journal and visit directly. Still others discover articles through internet searches or social media.

Regardless of how they arrive, these readers share something important: An interest in the communities their Parish Journals serve.

And among those readers are business owners, managers, professionals, nonprofit leaders and people responsible for promoting local events.

Many may not have considered that the same Parish Journal they read for local news can also help introduce their business or organization to potential customers and supporters.

Local Readers Are an Important Audience

The Parish Journals of Louisiana operate 16 digital publications serving 17 parishes across Northwest and Central Louisiana.

During the seven weeks ending Sept. 30, 2026, the network recorded more than 2.3 million articles read, averaging approximately 333,000 article reads each week.

Those numbers represent actual reading activity, not simply the number of times a social media post appeared on someone’s screen.

More importantly, each Journal serves readers interested in a particular Louisiana community.

For a local business, that distinction matters.

A business in Winn Parish may want to reach people interested in Winn Parish. A business serving several neighboring parishes may benefit from advertising across multiple Journals.

The Parish Journals provide opportunities for both.

No Paywall. No Paygate.

Readers never have to pay to open an article in the Parish Journals.

There are no paywalls or paygates, and email subscriptions are free.

That means an article can be shared with a friend, neighbor, customer or family member without requiring the recipient to purchase access.

Local advertising helps support this free and accessible approach to community news.

An Opportunity Worth Considering

Businesses have always needed ways to introduce their products and services to prospective customers.

Nonprofit organizations need to communicate their missions and programs. Community events need attendance. Public organizations need to reach the people they serve.

The Parish Journals offer advertising opportunities designed around the communities those organizations want to reach.

And for many business owners, the introduction to the Parish Journals has already happened.

They are readers themselves.

The next time you open your Parish Journal to catch up on local news, consider something else:

The publication helping you stay connected to your community may also be able to help your community discover your business.

The Parish Journals of Louisiana are operated by Journal Services LLC. To learn more about local and regional advertising opportunities, visit www.journalservicesllc.com or text: 318-500-3366.

AN OPEN LETTER: Celebrating Community, Culture and Dolly Parton in Natchitoches

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The winners will be selected from the statewide pool of eligible qualifiers each day. Winners will be notified of their Win!

There is no cost to participate.

Here are the winners as of October 27, 2026:

Check your email!

Candice Adcock	Cody Cryer	Shelly McDonald	Paula Roblow
Dustin Adcock	James Cryer	Jonas McFerrin	Annette Roque
Anne Aviles	Michael Dixon	Henry Mcsheppard	Jerry Rush
Scott Aymond	Brittany Driver	Guynell Melton	Hunter Salard
William Ball	Tarina Duplantis	Tyler Merrite	Kristi Salard
Jason Bardwell	Destiny Edmonson	Brandy Metoyer	Rebecca Scott
Hayley Bates	Tammye Edwards	Jonathan Meziere	Ruby Scott
Lisa Bayonne	Mary Fair	Nick Mirza	Bradley Smith
Andrea Below	George Fauber	Khloe Monceaux	Mark Smith
William Bennett	Ronald Fletcher	Barbara Moran	Tonya Smith
Satasha Bolton	Rhonda Flores	Sam Morse	Yawnashika Smith
George Booras	Erin Flurry	Clint Myles	Stormie Snowden
Patricia Bordelon	Jenna Foster	Jeremy Neal	Matrika Sowell-Howe
Rachel Boyt	Shelby Francis	Vanessa Neal	Laney Sylvia
Todd Brazil	Sue Fredieu	Mary Neill	Rozalyn Taylor
Ledonna Brewer	Gracie Frost	Mike Nelson	Regina Thomas
Leta T Brown	Heather Gathright	Diane Newton	Eunive Trahan
Sara Brunston	Daniel Granfors	Janae Nichols	Melissa Tucker
Jairen Burton	Murray Gros	Judith Nichols	Angela Walker
David Cadwallader	Vern Guidroz	Nickolia Noble	Melissa Walker
Anita Carter	Mike Gunter	Jane Norman	Danelli Weaver
Joe Carter	Jay Harrington	Rachel Onishea	Devon Weileder
Yvette Castille	Harmonee Helaire	Janice Page	Dixie Weileder
Rachel Cavanaugh	Tiara Horton	Kaleena Pardee	Beth Wilcox
Elma Cavazos	Todd Hughes	Bridget Patten	Allison Wilkerson
Victoria Cavazos	Frances Hutson	Sheronda Phanor	Hubert Wilkerson II
Clay Chadick	Holley Irvin	Harlie Pickett	Kyle Wilkerson
Dana Chadick	Laura Jackson	Joanna Poche	Brittney Williams
Tarhonda Champagne	Sara Johnson	Dakota Puckett	Eric Williams
Pamela Chapa	Rhonda M Kay	Andrea Rachal	Kelvin Williams
Lessonna Clark	Patrick Kelly	Cindy Rachal	Mary Williams
Sheila Clark	Kayla Key	Kelsey Rachal	Dale Wohletz
Melanie Clary	Lloyd Lee	Lana Revels	Tyler Woodruff
Ashley Coker	Marie Lofton	Marvin Richey
LaQuita Collins	Donna Martin	Crischele Roberson
Candace Coonce	April Matt	Anthony Robinson

Contest Rules

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Gather your bravest friends and head to Timber Ridge Adventure Park in Natchitoches for two haunting experiences in one location. Venture into the sinister Louisiana woods of Deadfall Trail, then step into Alice’s Madhouse in 3D, where Wonderland takes a terrifying turn.

Make it a night out with friends, a date night with a little more screaming, or the Halloween tradition your crew looks forward to all year. Just decide who’s going first before you arrive.

Dark Woods opens select Friday and Saturday nights in October 2026 at Timber Ridge Adventure Park, 4343 University Parkway in Natchitoches.

The last scream you hear may be your own.

Choose your night and buy tickets at DarkWoodsHaunt.com.

4343 University Parkway
Natchitoches, Louisiana

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The winners will be selected from the statewide pool of eligible qualifiers each day. Winners will be notified of their Win!

There is no cost to participate.

Contest Rules

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Early voting for Louisiana’s November 3, 2026 election continues giving registered voters statewide the opportunity to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day.

In nearly all Louisiana parishes, early voting takes place at the local Registrar of Voters office, which is typically located inside the parish courthouse. Some larger parishes may also operate additional branch sites to accommodate local turnout.

Polling locations statewide are open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily throughout the early voting period, excluding Sundays and state-recognized holidays.

Election officials urge voters to review their sample ballots in advance. Because ballots frequently feature a combination of candidate races, constitutional amendments, and local propositions, preparing ahead of time helps keep lines moving smoothly. Louisiana law limits voters to six minutes inside the voting booth, unless assistance has been authorized in advance.

To cast a ballot in person, voters must present a valid photo identification—such as a Louisiana driver’s license, a Louisiana Special ID card, LA Wallet digital ID, or another generally recognized picture identification card containing the voter’s name and signature. Those without a photo ID may still vote by signing an official voter affidavit.

Voters can check their registration status, review customized sample ballots, and confirm their designated polling places through the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Voter Portal at voterportal.sos.la.gov or via the free GeauxVote Mobile smartphone app.

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Experience. Reputation. Personal Attention. Right Here at Home.

When you need an attorney, you have plenty of choices. Television, billboards, and social media are filled with advertisements from law firms across Louisiana and beyond. But when you are facing a serious legal issue, there is something to be said for having an attorney who lives and works in your community, someone you can sit down with, look in the eye, and know personally.

At The Harrington Law Firm, we believe that choosing a lawyer should be about more than a catchy advertisement or a familiar telephone number. It should be about experience, trust, reputation, and personal service.

For nearly 50 years our family law firm has proudly served the people of Natchitoches Parish and the surrounding communities. We have built our practice on a simple philosophy: Treat our clients the way we would want our own family to be treated.

Why Choose The Harrington Law Firm?

• An AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell. The AV Preeminent rating is Martindale-Hubbell’s highest peer rating for professional excellence, recognizing attorneys who have been evaluated by their peers for strong legal ability and high ethical standards. It is a distinction that reflects the respect earned within the legal profession and places our firm in the top 10% of all law firms in the nation!  We are very proud of an honored by that recognition.
• A Family Firm That Treats You Like Family. We are proud to be a family law firm with deep roots in Natchitoches Andi surrounding area.Our clients are not simply case numbers or files on a desk. They are our friends, neighbors, and fellow members of the community. We understand that behind every legal problem is a person or family looking for answers and help.
• Personal Attention from the Firm’s Partners. When you hire our firm, you can expect to work directly with the attorneys responsible for your case. We believe in personal, face-to-face meetings, returning telephone calls, answering questions, and keeping our clients informed. You won’t simply be shuffled off to an associate you’ve never met.
• Local Attorneys Who Know Our Community. We live here, work here, and raise our families here. We understand the people, businesses, and concerns of North Louisiana. Our reputation isn’t built solely on advertising. It is built on decades of relationships and service to the community.
• Experience Across a Wide Range of Legal Matters. Legal problems come in many forms, and our firm has experience helping individuals and families navigate some of life’s most difficult situations. Whether you’ve been injured in an accident, are struggling with overwhelming debt, need help obtaining disability benefits, or want to protect your family’s future, we are here to help.
• Accountability and Accessibility. We believe you should know who your attorney is and how to reach them. Our office is right here in Natchitoches, and we stand behind the work we do for our clients. We value the relationships we build, not just the cases we handle.

How Can We Help You?

The Harrington Law Firm provides legal representation in a variety of practice areas, including:

• Personal Injury: Automobile accidents, 18-wheeler and commercial truck accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and other serious injury claims.
• Oil and Gas Matters: Oil and gas lease reviews, lease negotiations, and related property and mineral rights issues.
• Social Security Disability: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), disability denials, hearings, and appeals.
• Bankruptcy and Debt Relief: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, creditor issues, debt negotiations, and financial relief options.
• Wills and Successions: Last wills and testaments, estate planning, successions, and assistance with the transfer of property following the death of a loved one.

Big Enough to Handle Your Legal Problems. Small Enough to Know Your Name.

We know that legal problems can be stressful, confusing, and sometimes life-changing. Whether you’re dealing with a serious injury, financial difficulties, the loss of a loved one, or another legal concern, you deserve an attorney who will take the time to listen.

At The Harrington Law Firm, we don’t believe personal service is old-fashioned. We believe it’s the way practicing law ought to be.

When you need legal help, consider the advantages of keeping it local.

THE HARRINGTON LAW FIRM
Proudly Serving Natchitoches and North Louisiana for nearly 50 years.

Phone: 318-352-5900
Website: www.theharringtonlawfirm.com

Experience. Integrity. Personal Service. Right Here at Home.

Attorney advertising. The choice of an attorney is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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By Journal Staff

There is something truly magical about bringing Louisiana communities together to celebrate what makes our state so vibrant, welcoming and unique.

Over the past few weeks, the Parish Journals of Louisiana had the privilege of partnering with Paige Alost and the Natchitoches Parish Tourist and Convention Commission, alongside Rebecca Blankenbaker and the Cane River National Heritage Area, to help promote a one-of-a-kind regional celebration: Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend: Natchitoches Celebrates Dolly Parton.

From the moment planning began, our mission was simple: rally readers from across North and Central Louisiana and share the charm, history, and warmth of Natchitoches.

Today, we could not be prouder of the overwhelming response.

Throughout the multi-week promotional campaign, our readers answered the call in record numbers:

• Over 1.29 million total impressions were delivered across our 16 digital Parish Journals, connecting community members to the spirit and schedule of the festival.
• More than 1 million views greeted readers on topboard banners across every single news article published in our network.
• Nearly 300,000 in-depth reads were logged on our dedicated feature advertorials exploring the weekend’s itinerary and the rich heritage of Cane River country.
• More than 4,400 verified, non-duplicated entries were submitted by readers eager to win the exclusive $600 Dolly Parton Weekend Getaway package.

Beyond the numbers, what stood out most was the enthusiasm of our neighbors. Whether reading in Lincoln, Webster, Rapides, Jackson, Shreveport-Bossier, or right at home in Natchitoches Parish, readers embraced the chance to support and visit a premier Louisiana destination.

Events like Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend demonstrate the enduring spirit of local community. Partnering with dedicated leaders like Paige Alost and Rebecca Blankenbaker reminds us of the power of collaboration between local tourism organizations and local community journalism.

To the Natchitoches Parish Tourist and Convention Commission and the Cane River National Heritage Area: thank you for trusting us to help tell your story. And to our readers across Louisiana: thank you for supporting community events and continuing to make our parish news network your daily home.

We were honored to play a part in this unforgettable celebration—and we look forward to many more to come.

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BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana hunters using firearm suppressors will not face state penalties for lacking federal tax stamps or registration papers following recent changes to federal law, wildlife officials announced Monday.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries issued guidance clarifying how enforcement agents will address suppressors in the field after major federal shifts removed long-standing registration mandates.

Congress recently reduced the federal tax on suppressors to $0, and a federal court in Texas ruled in August that the federal government could no longer enforce specific registration requirements. On Oct. 9, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announced it would no longer require agency approval or registration to possess a suppressor.

While Louisiana state law permits hunters to use suppressors, state statutes previously relied on the federal tax stamp as proof that the device was possessed legally.

LDWF officials said enforcement agents will adjust their field inspections accordingly. Agents will not cite hunters or seize equipment simply because an individual does not possess an ATF tax stamp or registration paperwork, provided the suppressor is legally owned and attached to a firearm permitted for the active hunting season.

Officials emphasized that standard hunting regulations and restrictions remain in effect. Agents will continue checking licenses, harvest tags, season dates, legal hunting hours, bag limits and approved methods of take.

Key rules that remain unchanged include:

• Suppressors remain legal for taking game birds, wild quadrupeds, outlaw quadrupeds, nutria and beaver.
• Firearms must still meet legal specifications for the specific season and game pursued; attaching a suppressor does not make an otherwise illegal firearm lawful.
• Individuals legally prohibited from possessing firearms may not possess suppressors.
• Anyone convicted of a class four or greater hunting violation remains barred from hunting with a suppressor for five years following the conviction date.
• Machine guns remain fully regulated under federal law.

Hunters with questions or seeking local contact information for enforcement agents may visit wlf.louisiana.gov/page/contact-local-law-enforcement.

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For many people, applying for a loan can feel like being reduced to a number.

A credit score may be part of the lending process, but it does not always tell the full story of a person’s financial situation.

Someone may have experienced a job change, medical expense, divorce, unexpected repair or other setback that affected their credit. Another person may simply have a limited credit history because they have not used traditional financial products very often.

That does not mean their current financial need is any less real.

Better Finance believes that is why a conversation still matters.

For more than 60 years, the company has worked with customers in Northwest Louisiana by taking the time to understand why they need financing, what their circumstances are and whether a loan can be structured appropriately.

That personal approach can be especially important for people who feel overlooked by larger or more automated financial systems.

Today, many lending decisions begin online. An applicant enters information, a computer reviews the data and a decision may be made with little or no personal interaction.

Technology can make financial services more convenient, but convenience and understanding are not always the same thing.

Sometimes a borrower needs the opportunity to explain the situation.

Perhaps a vehicle needs to be repaired so someone can continue getting to work.

Perhaps several existing payments have become difficult to manage.

Perhaps a family faces a medical expense, school expense or household need that was not part of the monthly budget.

The circumstances can be very different from one customer to the next.

Better Finance’s approach is to begin by listening.

That conversation does not guarantee that every loan will be approved. Responsible lending requires evaluating whether a loan is appropriate and whether the borrower can reasonably handle the repayment.

But it does mean the customer has an opportunity to discuss the need with someone who understands that financial lives are rarely as simple as a single number on a report.

For consumers who do not have a strong relationship with a traditional bank or financial institution, that conversation can be particularly valuable.

A past financial problem does not necessarily describe where someone is today.

A limited credit history does not necessarily describe someone’s ability to work, earn an income or meet future obligations.

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Oil and gas leasing, rights of way and drilling continued across several areas of Natchitoches Parish during September, even as the number of new filings declined slightly.

The Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court’s office recorded 53 oil and gas-related filings during September.

Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court David Stamey said the office remains busy both in person and through its online records system.

“We continue to have abstractors in the office daily and working online,” Stamey said.

The continued presence of abstractors is an important indicator of industry interest. Abstractors research property ownership, mineral interests and title history as companies evaluate land for leasing, drilling and other development.

Geographically, leasing continues across a broad portion of Natchitoches Parish.

Leases continue to be recorded east of Interstate 49, west toward the Sabine Parish line and south of Robeline. The Ashland area also remains active, with recent interest extending south of Ashland.

The expanding footprint follows the pattern seen throughout 2026 as oil and gas interest has moved beyond the original areas and into additional portions of the parish.

Drilling also continues.

Stamey noted that the Clerk of Court’s office does not receive information concerning production from individual wells. However, the office does provide residents with another way to follow potential future drilling. (See Pictures Below)

The Clerk’s office posts notices from the Louisiana Department of Conservation on the bulletin board outside its office concerning upcoming meetings and proposed drilling unit maps.

Those proposed unit maps can provide an early indication of where companies are seeking authorization for future drilling and development.

The combination of continued leasing, title research, rights-of-way filings and drilling shows that oil and gas development remains strong across Natchitoches Parish.

Landowners approached with mineral lease offers, rights-of-way agreements, pipeline easements or other oil and gas documents should understand the complexity and potential long-term consequences of the agreements they are being asked to sign.

Those who are not experienced in oil and gas matters should strongly consider consulting a qualified oil and gas attorney or other specialist before signing an agreement. Mineral leases and related agreements can affect royalty payments, mineral rights, surface access and the future use of property.

Professional guidance can help landowners understand proposed terms and protect their interests before entering into a long-term agreement.

The September filings bring the 2026 year-to-date total to 624, continuing a pace well ahead of the 405 filings recorded during all of 2025.

Total filed in calendar year 2025: 405
Total filed in calendar year 2026: 624

The Natchitoches Parish Journal will continue following leasing, drilling and related oil and gas development across the parish.

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

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The inaugural festival brings 10 artists and two nights of country music to Natchitoches as Northwestern State University launches an annual event with ambitions to become North Louisiana’s premier music festival. Get your tickets now at topofthebootmusicfest.com.

By Cole Gentry, Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University

On Oct. 16 and 17, Northwestern State University will welcome country music fans, alumni, students, families and visitors to Natchitoches for the inaugural Top of the Boot Music Festival. The two-day event will bring established country stars, rising artists and Louisiana talent to the NSU campus for a fall weekend centered on live music, good times and the people you want beside you.

Friday, Oct. 16, opens with co-headliners Lee Brice and Louisiana native Dylan Scott.

Brice brings a catalog that includes eight No. 1 country singles and songs such as “I Drive Your Truck,” “I Don’t Dance,” “Hard to Love” and “One of Them Girls.” Scott returns to his home state with four No. 1 songs on the U.S. Country Airplay charts, including “My Girl,” “New Truck,” “Can’t Have Mine” and “This Town’s Been Too Good to Us.”

Lanie Gardner, Jackson Wendell and Clay LaBeff complete Friday’s lineup.

Saturday, Oct. 17, features Flatland Cavalry as the night’s headliner. The Texas Country and Americana group has earned three ACM Group of the Year nominations from 2024 through 2026. Ian Munsick, Rodney Atkins, Laine Hardy and Bottomland round out Saturday’s lineup.

Across two nights, 10 artists will take the stage at Northwestern State.

The reach of Top of the Boot extends well beyond Natchitoches. Marketing for the festival stretches across a multi-state region from Little Rock, Arkansas, to Jackson, Mississippi, south to New Orleans, Louisiana and west to Houston and Dallas, Texas.

That reach reflects the scale of the vision. Top of the Boot is being built as an annual destination event with the goal of becoming North Louisiana’s premier music festival, bringing country music fans from across Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi and Texas to Natchitoches each fall.

The festival will take place behind the NSU Soccer Complex along Tarleton Drive. Food trucks, vendors and two nights of performances will create a place for friends, families and loved ones to spend a fall weekend together.

For alumni, it is a reason to come home. For prospective students and families, it is another way to experience Northwestern State. For visitors, it is an invitation to spend time on campus and in Natchitoches while enjoying one of North Louisiana’s largest new entertainment events.

Northwestern State Athletics also has a direct stake in the festival’s success. The event was created to benefit NSU student-athletes while showcasing the university and Natchitoches to visitors from across the region.

Every annual tradition has a first year. For Top of the Boot, that year is 2026. Bring your friends. Bring your family. Come back to NSU or experience our campus for the first time. Spend two nights with some of country music’s biggest names and be there at the beginning of something built to return year after year.

Top of the Boot Music Festival
Oct. 16-17, 2026
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, Louisiana

General admission and VIP options are available. Get your tickets now at topofthebootmusicfest.com.

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Office Building for Lease:

Size: 1 story / 1,300 Square Feet (approx.). New Driveway, paint inside/out, new flooring and blinds.
Term: Lease – 1 year minimum
Lease Rate: $2,500.00

Location: 301 Church Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana

For more information and/or a showing, please contact, 318-471-9955

Serious Inquiries Only

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Donna Arender of Webster Parish has been named the grand prize winner of the Dolly Parton Weekend Getaway to Natchitoches, organizers announced Monday.

The $600 getaway package includes $300 in food cards, $200 in travel cash, and a $100 gas card to fund a weekend trip to Louisiana’s oldest city.

The popular promotion drew more than 4,400 entries from residents across Louisiana. Participating entries represented 27 parishes statewide: Acadia, Allen, Avoyelles, Beauregard, Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Calcasieu, Caldwell, Claiborne, De Soto, East Baton Rouge, Evangeline, Grant, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, LaSalle, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Orleans, Ouachita, Rapides, Red River, Sabine, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Tammany, Terrebonne, Union, Vernon, Webster, and Winn.

Organizers expressed appreciation to the thousands of readers who participated and congratulated Donna Arender of Webster Parish on winning the weekend retreat.

SAVE THE DATE: Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend: Natchitoches Celebrates Dolly Parton

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There’s no better place to celebrate Dolly Parton than the Louisiana town where one of her most beloved characters came to life.

This October 9–11, Natchitoches invites visitors to spend a weekend celebrating Dolly with Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend: A Dolly Parton Celebration. Inspired by Dolly’s unforgettable role as Truvy Jones in Steel Magnolias, the three-day celebration brings together music, movies, local businesses and plenty of pink for a weekend in the heart of Louisiana’s oldest city.

Natchitoches has long held a special connection to Steel Magnolias. The beloved film was shot in and around the city, and decades later, visitors still come to Natchitoches to experience the places that made the movie so memorable. This October, that connection takes center stage as the community celebrates Dolly’s legacy in true Natchitoches fashion.

The celebration begins Friday, October 9, with Dolly Bingo at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum at 5:30 p.m. Later that evening, channel your inner Dolly and head to Mama’s Blues Room for karaoke beginning at 8:30 p.m.

On Saturday, October 10, start the morning with Books & Butterflies from 8 a.m. to noon at the Natchitoches Farmers Market. The celebration continues throughout the day with Truvy’s Downtown Traipse, inviting visitors to explore Natchitoches’ historic downtown and experience Truvy’s Specials offered by participating businesses.

Saturday evening, tease up your hair and get ready for Truvy’s Big Hair Affair at Parkway Cinema 6 at 7 p.m. It’s a fitting way to celebrate a character, a movie and a little bit of Southern style that have become part of Natchitoches history.

The weekend wraps up Sunday, October 11, with a Blush & Bashful Brunch at Flying Heart Brewery beginning at 9 a.m.

While you’re here, make a weekend of it. Stroll the brick streets of the Natchitoches Historic District, shop local boutiques, enjoy Louisiana flavors, take in the beauty of Cane River and discover the filming locations that helped bring Steel Magnolias to the big screen. As Louisiana’s oldest city, Natchitoches offers the perfect backdrop for a weekend filled with history, Southern charm and plenty to explore.

Whether you’ve loved Dolly for decades, can quote Steel Magnolias from beginning to end, or simply need an excuse for a girls’ weekend in Natchitoches, Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend is your invitation to celebrate friendship, Southern charm and the legacy of a woman whose talent and spirit have touched generations.

Pack something pink, bring your best big hair and join us October 9–11, 2026, in Natchitoches, Louisiana.

For complete event information, updates and weekend details, visit Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend: A Dolly Parton Celebration at Natchitoches.com. Visitors can also explore Natchitoches.com for lodging, dining, attractions and everything needed to plan a weekend getaway.

Lodging link: natchitoches.com/stay/
Calendar link: natchitoches.com/calendar/
Embedded event link: https://natchitoches.com/truvys-blush-bashful-weekend-a-dolly-parton-celebration/

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The 2026 Natchitoches Car Show, a sure sign of the upcoming Fall season now in its 20th year, was held Friday and Saturday in downtown Natchitoches. Thousands of visitors filled the downtown area and enjoyed seeing 357 cars parked on the riverbank and Front Street. The vehicles ranged from a variety of classic Volkswagens to a 1939 Rolls Royce limousine. There was indeed something for every taste.

The visiting car owners started arriving on Friday and were treated to a welcoming fish fry. The car show continued Saturday morning and went on throughout the day. Visitors to the show were able to enjoy live music from several local bands as they perused the vehicles on display. At the end of the show, the car owners gathered at the downtown riverbank for the presentation of awards. 

The Natchitoches Classic Car Show has grown over the past 20 years into one of the largest and most eagerly awaited events held in the city as well as a popular destination for antique car aficionados. This year’s show featured a car driven by its owner all the way from British Columbia, Canada as well as a car from Alaska. The show is a solid day of nostalgia with no cost to attend. The event is also a wonderful showcase for our community. Events such as the annual Classic Car Show are part and parcel of what makes life in our community special!

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