By Piper Hutchinson, Louisiana Illuminator


Northwestern State president says his plan is ‘wasting away in Margaritaville’

State Sen. Alan Seabaugh takes credit for ousting Northwestern State University’s president in 2024 and, with the backing of Gov. Jeff Landry, replacing him with former Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Jimmy Genovese. 

Two years later, Genovese says he isn’t able to count on either of his two supporters to advance his plans for the school, which include starting the first law school in North Louisiana. 

In recent interviews, Genovese said his feud with Seabaugh, a Republican whose district includes the Natchitoches campus, is costing Northwestern State much-needed cash from the state. And it was Landry who came up with the idea to open a law school at the university, but the governor has since dropped his support of the plan, he said

“It wasn’t my idea,” Genovese said. “When I came on board … there were discussions coming out of the governor’s office regarding a law school, so I just went with the flow.” 

When asked if the governor supports a new law school at Northwestern State, Landry spokeswoman Kate Kelly said that decision is completely up to the Board of Regents, which oversees higher education in Louisiana.

While he maintains the governor still privately backs the idea, Genovese said two factors have led Landry away from providing any public or material support. The first, Genovese said, is Senate President Cameron Henry, R-Metairie, whose district includes Tulane University, home to one of the state’s four law schools. Genovese said the governor doesn’t want to get crosswise with a legislative leader he needs to advance his agenda.

“The last thing Louisiana needs is more lawyers,” Henry said when reached for comment about Genovese’s proposal. 

Another obstacle, Genovese said, is that promoting a new law school might create the impression that Landry supports trial attorneys. The governor himself is an attorney and has received campaign contributions from trial lawyers. 

“There was this nasty fight  … between the insurance industry and the trial lawyers, and I don’t think the governor wants to be labeled a trial lawyer person,” Genovese said. 

Genovese provided a copy of his law school proposal he said he submitted to the Board of Regents and the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors, which oversees Northwestern State. Genovese and UL System board member Robert “Skeeter” Salim, Genovese’s lifelong friend and a prominent trial attorney in the state, requested the Regents expedite their review process so it could receive approval from the UL System Board just a month after it was proposed. 

Emails the Illuminator obtained through a public records request show Board of Regents staff discussed the matter with Commissioner of Higher Education Kim Hunter Reed, who was not comfortable with an expedited review. Genovese and Salim have not brought the law school pitch to the full UL System board. 

Genovese described his proposal as “wasting away in Margaritaville,” a reference to the Jimmy Buffet song. 

Despite no further moves to make the proposal a reality, Genovese has continued to publicly advocate for the law school in speeches and in news interviews, rankling state lawmakers and other stakeholders. 

“If the Board of Regents wanted another law school, they would do it,” said state Rep. Jack McFarland, R-Jonesboro, whose district includes Natchitoches. “So I don’t know why he continues to talk and advocate for things like that and get people’s hopes up, when obviously an application to do a law school has not moved within the Board of Regents.” 

From reference to rival

While he seemingly tilts at windmills for a new law school, Genovese has also feuded with the lawmaker who got him the job at Northwestern State. 

Seabaugh, an conservative lawmaker, said in an interview last week his first order of business after joining the Louisiana Senate in 2024 was ousting Marcus Jones, the first Black leader at Northwestern State, who Seabaugh said was responsible for the school “going downhill in many ways.” 

After being forced to resign, Jones returned to the University of Louisiana System office as executive vice president and chief operating officer. 

Seabaugh proposed Genovese replace Jones in Natchitoches. Landry also backed Genovese for the job. 

“Nobody was more responsible for putting him there than me,” Seabaugh said. 

Genovese, despite having had no experience in higher education leadership, touted his budget expertise when interviewing with faculty and staff for the president’s job. He took credit for securing money for the Louisiana Supreme Court during his time as an associate justice from 2017-24.

That claimed fiscal prowess isn’t reflected in the state budget that takes effect Wednesday, however. 

Northwestern State was the only public university in Louisiana to receive no additional funding in the primary budget bill on top of what each campus is required to receive. It was also the only campus left out of the supplemental budget, where lawmakers dole out millions for special projects. These special projects find their way into the budget at the request of lawmakers, usually senators. 

When asked about Northwestern State’s omission in the budget, Genovese blamed Seabaugh. 

“We don’t have a senator that helps us,” Genovese said. “[Seabaugh has] been mad at me from day one. I … hardly even know this guy.” 

‘I don’t think he’s suited for the job’

Genovese said the feud started because he refused to fire Northwestern State employees  Seabaugh asked him to dismiss. Since then, Genovese said, Seabaugh hasn’t answered his phone calls. 

Seabaugh said none of that is true. By his account, he never asked Genovese to fire anybody but rather warned him not to take advice from the same people he viewed as leading Jones astray. 

Jones has not responded to a request for comment. 

Seabaugh also said he hasn’t refused any calls from Genovese, because he hasn’t gotten any to reject. 

“If they want me to put something in the budget, they might want to ask,” Seabaugh said. 

Though he wouldn’t characterize the tension between the two leaders as a “disagreement,” Seabaugh expressed frustration in the way Genovese handled the first major hire of his administration. 

Genovese brought in former Northwestern State basketball coach Mike McConathy as a special adviser in fall 2024 shortly after he was hired. McConathy is a Louisiana basketball coaching legend who was recently inducted into the state’s Sports Hall of Fame. He also ran against Seabaugh in his 2023 Senate bid.

Seabaugh said he didn’t mind that he hired McConathy, but he did take issue with how Genovese addressed it with him. 

“When he called me, he said, ‘I know this is going to piss you off, but I don’t care. I’m doing it anyway,’” Seabaugh recounted.

Genovese said that was not the language he used but confirmed he did call Seabaugh as a courtesy to tell him he was hiring McConathy, which he said angered the senator. 

The two confirmed they haven’t talked since that call in 2024. 

“He doesn’t know how to ask,” Seabaugh said. “I think he’s used to being a judge and telling people what to do. I don’t think he’s suited for the job he’s in.” 

“The university has not improved and it’s not going to as long as he’s there,” the senator added. 

Spending in question 

McFarland, who leads the legislature’s budget-writing committee, said some of Genovese’s “decision making has been questioned.” 

McFarland didn’t detail the gripes he has heard from lawmakers, but a look into Northwestern State’s budget shows warning signs of financial difficulties ahead. 

Genovese has raised pay for Northwestern State’s approximately 800 employees three times in less than two years, despite the university operating at a deficit. The university projects a shortfall of $13.4 million for the fiscal year that ended Tuesday, according to a UL System financial report. The university has covered the cost by spending down its cash reserves. 

Other UL System schools are in worse financial positions, but Northwestern State’s spending has raised the eyebrows of its board members, who questioned Genovese about the deficit at last week’s meeting. Genovese said the university was likely to end the next fiscal year in the black, possibly with a surplus. 

While Genovense’s spending at Northwestern State has increased, enrollment at the school has dropped. Its student body reached 8,847 in 2023 and fell to 8,402 for fall 2025, a 5% decrease. Less than a quarter of NSU students attend class on campus, which means they bring in less revenue for the school. 

Other schools in the UL System are also experiencing enrollment declines, but most are adjusting their budgets to match. 

“We’re closely monitoring the enrollment projections and being optimistic that they will be able to turn the tide on their own,” UL System President Rick Gallot, Genovese’s boss, said about the budget situation.

Photo and Article Courtesy of the Louisiana Illuminator

North Louisiana law school proposal puts university leader at odds with Landry, lawmakers

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As Northwestern State University (NSU) looks ahead to the Fall 2026 semester, internal tracking data reveals that high school dual enrollment programs are projected to play an even larger role in the university’s total headcount than in previous semesters.

According to an official institutional research document, the university has set an aggressive Next Fall Target of 7,879 undergraduate students. However, a closer look at the tracking metrics shows that nearly one-third of that entire target population is made up of high school students.

The ‘Enrollment Mask’ Expands

The university separates its high school and introductory enrollment into two tracking categories: University (Non-Prep) and University (Prep). For the upcoming Fall 2026 semester, the university’s targets for these categories are:

• UNIV (Non-Prep) Target: 351 students
• UNIV (Prep) Target: 2,183 students
• Total High School Target: 2,534 students

If NSU hits its goals, dual enrollment students will account for 32.2%—nearly one out of every three—of the total undergraduate student body. This represents a significant shift from previous years, expanding the “Enrollment Mask” that higher education analysts say allows institutions to report stable or growing total headcounts while masking a structural decline in full-time, on-campus students.

Current Summer Progress

As of June 24, 2026, registration tracking shows the university still has a long hill to climb before reaching its census goals, which is typical for this point in the summer cycle.

The university’s Current Enrollment stands at 4,732 out of the 7,879 target. When isolating the true degree-seeking undergraduate numbers from the high school dual enrollment categories, the breakdown shows:

• Total Reported Current Enrollment: 4,732*
• Current Dual Enrollment (Prep & Non-Prep): 768
• True Current Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,964**

*Note: Across the university’s broader tracking metrics, true undergraduate enrollment stands at 3,964; however, it should be noted that many of these students are online-only or attend classes outside of the main campus in Natchitoches.

While a vast majority of the targeted 2,534 high school students will be registered later in the summer as school districts finalize their schedules, the physical campus infrastructure remains tied to the 3,964 true undergraduates currently on the books.

Budget vs. Body Count

The economic reality for the Natchitoches campus remains stark. Traditional undergraduate students pay full tuition and generate critical “auxiliary revenue” through campus housing, meal plans, and student fees. In contrast, dual enrollment students pay deeply discounted contract rates or receive state-funded exemptions.

The physical presence of these students on campus remains rare. While a select few students from local institutions like Natchitoches Central and the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) are granted rare permission to attend classes in person, the vast majority of the dual enrollment population completes coursework remotely or at their respective high schools.

As the university pushes toward its ultimate master plan under leadership to stabilize total institutional footing, the tracking data indicates that the path to high headcount numbers relies more heavily than ever on the high school demographic.

**Note
Dual Enrollment (DE) students are excluded from “True Enrollment” figures above. While these students are academically valuable, their reduced tuition and minimal use of campus facilities mean they do not reflect the institutional sustainability or the market demand for the university’s core physical and residential services.

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The countdown is underway for one of the largest patriotic celebrations planned in Sabine Parish as community leaders prepare to host “Louisiana’s Saturday Night: Let Freedom Ring” on June 27 at the Zwolle Festival Grounds.

The free community concert is part of the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, bringing together residents and visitors for an evening of live music, family entertainment, and patriotic pride.

Hosted through a partnership involving Sabine Parish America 250, the Sabine Parish Tourist Commission, and America 250 Louisiana, the event aims to honor the nation’s historic milestone while showcasing local hospitality and community spirit.

Gates will open at 3 p.m. at the Zwolle Festival Grounds, located at 1100 South Main Street in Zwolle.

The concert lineup features several well-known Louisiana performers, including Grammy Award-winning Cajun music legend Wayne Toups, former American Idol winner Laine Hardy, and regional favorite Next of Kin.

Organizers say the event is designed to bring families, friends, and neighbors together for a memorable evening celebrating both American history and the culture of Louisiana.

“This free concert is one you won’t want to miss,” organizers said in announcing the event. “Gather your family and friends and make plans to be part of this special celebration in Sabine Parish.”

In addition to the entertainment, event organizers have released safety guidelines for attendees. Outside food and beverages will not be permitted inside the venue. Oversized bags, ice chests, illegal substances, and weapons are also prohibited.

Officials noted that all bags brought onto the festival grounds will be subject to inspection as part of security measures designed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone attending.

The celebration is expected to draw visitors from throughout Sabine Parish and neighboring communities, providing an opportunity to recognize the nation’s semiquincentennial while highlighting the area’s strong sense of community.

America 250 commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, with events taking place across the country leading up to the historic milestone.

Local organizers say the Zwolle event will combine music, patriotism, and community fellowship in a way that reflects the unique character of Sabine Parish.

Residents are encouraged to arrive early, review event guidelines in advance, and prepare for an evening of live entertainment and celebration as Sabine Parish joins communities across the nation in honoring America’s 250-year history.

Additional information about the event is available through Sabine Parish America 250 and the Sabine Parish Tourist Commission.

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Why I Am the Conservative Choice for U.S. Senate

By Louisiana State Treasurer John Fleming, M.D.

Louisiana Republicans face an important choice in this Senate runoff election. My opponent and I offer two very different visions for the future of our state and our nation.

I entered this race because I believe Louisiana deserves a U.S. Senator who will fight for our values, challenge the political establishment, and put our citizens’ interests ahead of special interests.

The establishment is investing heavily in this race because they understand what is at stake. They know I will challenge the status quo. They know I will vote based on conservative principles rather than political pressure. And they know I will put Louisiana first.

My opponent, Congresswoman Julia Letlow, is totally controlled by Governor Jeff Landry, whose operatives are managing her campaign and whose allies are pumping millions of dollars of dark money into the race to support her with dishonest advertisements. These insiders oppose me because they know I cannot be bought, bullied, or bossed.

Throughout my career as a physician, small business owner, U.S. Congressman, and Louisiana State Treasurer, I have built a record of service rooted in conservative principles, not political convenience.

This campaign has demonstrated the difference between grassroots leadership and establishment politics. While outside groups and political operatives relied on lies attempting to influence the race, I have relied on the support of ordinary Louisianans who are tired of seeing Washington insiders dictate the future of our state. I advanced to this runoff despite being heavily outspent because voters are looking for authenticity, experience, and conviction.

In this campaign, one of the most important issues is the protection of private property rights. Louisiana landowners should never be forced to surrender property rights to allow private carbon capture companies to profit from federally subsidized projects.

Julia Letlow strongly supported President Joe Biden’s Green Energy and Climate Change agenda, including carbon sequestration. In contrast, I staunchly support MAGA and America First policies and thoroughly oppose dangerous carbon sequestration.

I also believe the federal government should focus on merit, excellence, and equal opportunity, not divisive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. Throughout her academic career, Julia Letlow passionately supported DEI policies, which seek to divide Americans by race, gender, or identity.  In the Senate, I will vote to ensure that taxpayer dollars are not used to support DEI mandates and that federal policies reward achievement, hard work, and individual responsibility.

Louisianans are also tired of seeing elected officials enrich themselves while in office. Public service should be exactly that, service. The American people deserve confidence that their representatives are working for them rather than leveraging their positions for personal financial gain.

Sadly, the Federal Election Commission and the Department of Justice have received complaints from watchdog organizations about my opponent’s alleged campaign finance violations. While serving in Congress, Ms. Letlow admitted to 210 late stock trade filings. In contrast, there is no blemish on my record, and I did not engage in stock trading in Congress.

I have spent my career standing up for conservative values, supporting secure borders, defending the unborn, protecting the Second Amendment, and fighting for limited government.

This election is about whether Louisiana will send another politician to Capitol Hill or a proven conservative fighter who is willing to challenge the status quo.

I am asking for your vote because I will not disappoint you and will always put Louisiana first. Together, we can protect our freedoms, defend our values, and ensure that our U.S. Senate seat belongs to the people of Louisiana, not political insiders.

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It’s time to celebrate: Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame festivities begin Thursday

Three days of festivities unfold beginning Thursday through Saturday for the 2026 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2026 will be enshrined Saturday night at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 67^th Induction Celebration.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m., free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches. No need to dress up, just come enjoy appetizers, entertainment and the first look at the new items the 2026 inductees have provided for display.

The Friday schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. Lunch is served at 11:30 with a festive warmup session for the bowlers before celebrity introductions and the competition begins about 12:45. Tickets are available at LaSportsHall.com.

The 2026 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert on the downtown riverbank stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event, with an array of Louisiana dishes and specialty drinks at Mama’s Oyster House and Blues Room overlooking the Rue Beauport riverbank venue.

The slate on Saturday kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at LaSportsHall.com.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening. A few seats are still available.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of ‘26 is headlined by a star-studded group:  Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2025 inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother.

Alexandria native and LSU baseball hero Warren Morris will receive the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, earning enshrinement into the LSHOF. His walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU and resulted in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

LSU graduate and New Orleans native Gil LeBreton and multi-faceted Shreveporter John James Marshall are going into the Hall as the 2026 winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. Former Tioga girls basketball coach and nationally-acclaimed high school sports administrator Kathy Holloway is being inducted as the recipient of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors. 

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke, Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.  

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I absolutely believe Americans have a lot more in common than what is depicted on the news or via social media. I’m a “glass-more-than-half-full” type of person and I wholeheartedly believe people are entitled to their own opinions and, given an opportunity to discuss those opinions, I can find some commonality with them.  I do not believe that I am in the minority in my thinking. A Pew Research study conducted in 2023 found that only 4% of U.S. adults believe the political system is functioning well or very well, which means an overwhelming 96% of those polled had an unfavorable opinion of American politics. Not surprisingly, the number of Americans that consider themselves to be politically independent is on the rise (45%, news.gallop.com).  

Other things the majority of Americans agree on is that teachers should be paid more (73%, yougov.com); Congress should enact laws to lower healthcare costs (91%, familiesusa.org); corporations have too much influence in politics (76 – 83%, americans-agree.org); and social security should be strengthened (79%, nationwidefinancial.com).

The overwhelming sense that Americans are becoming malcontent is not a result of divisive opinions, but rather the way we communicate those opinions. As we celebrate America’s 250^th birthday, may we all embrace the words of Abraham Lincoln who wrote in a letter to Henry L. Pierce and others on April 6, 1859, “Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves; and, under a just God, can not long retain it.”

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Music, food, family fun at free Hall of Fame Rockin’ River Fest Friday, June 26

Friday night is just right for some midsummer magic under the moonlight, free for all, during next weekend’s Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

Specifically, it’s going to happen next Friday evening into night, June 26, on the Rue Beauport stage bordering Cane River Lake smack dab in the middle of the City of Lights’ historic and beautiful downtown district. It’s the free Rockin’ Riverfest party presented by Rapides Regional Medical Center and Louisiana Propane Dealers.

The showcase act is Blue Crab Redemption, a Louisiana bred and fed alt blues/rock band whose major influences include Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, John Mayer, Stevie Wonder and The Eagles.  Their sound is a raw, classic vibe from ghosts of legends past blended with the soulful influences of the modern rock era.

The opener is Connor Martin, a country artist passionate about creating music that inspires and connects. Recently, Martin has opened for Easton Corbin, Tyler Farr, Parker McCollum, and Keith Urban.

Good times will abound during the riverfront concert, which runs from 6 p.m. to 10:30. One of the highlights: at 9:15, the Hall’s impressive Class of 2026 will be introduced on stage, and celebrated with a 10-minute fireworks show set to sports-themed music over Cane River Lake. Then the music cranks up again for another hour of festivities.

And yes, you read correctly. It’s free to attend.

There will be food and beverage vendors – Girlines Home Cooking, Soulful Wings, Summer Snow To Go and for the grown-ups, Maggio’s, on the riverfront, and of course, Front Street’s always fun watering holes/restaurants are just a few steps away.

MOVE Sport and Spine will set up their sharp-looking apparel line for sale, and Hall of Fame gear will also be available.

It’s family friendly. A free interactive kids zone presented by the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans will include basketball, football, baseball games and inflatables for all ages to enjoy. NSU athletes will be on hand to help the kids have all the fun, and give away some basketballs.

If you want to beat the summer heat and enjoy a tasty collection of Louisiana foods and specialty refreshments, hurry and visit LaSportsHall.com to snap up some of the fast-disappearing $100 tickets to the VIP Taste of Tailgating presented by Hancock Whitney.

That party runs from 7-10 p.m. in the air-conditioned comfort of Mama’s Oyster House and Blues Room that will provide exclusive access to the 12-member 2026 Induction Class.

Join the fun and celebrate some of Louisiana’s sports greats, for free, on Friday evening, June 26, in downtown Natchitoches.

Rockin’ River Fest is one of three free events during the Induction Celebration, starting with the free Welcome Reception Thursday evening, June 25, from 5-7 in the Hall of Fame museum. It’s not a dress-up event, just a come eat and meet the inductees and check out the world-class museum at no charge. The other free event is the Saturday morning June 27 Saints & Pelicans LSHOF Junior Training Camp for kids. Advance registration is necessary at LaSportsHall.com.

For information on all seven events during the June 25-27 Class of 2026 Induction Celebration, visit LaSportsHall.com or call 318-238-4255.

Paid Content

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By Republican U.S. Senate Candidate John Fleming, M.D.

Now that the incumbent, Dr. Bill Cassidy, has been eliminated from the Republican Party’s runoff election, Louisiana voters need to decide who is the best candidate to represent them in the U.S. Senate.

All voters hear from my opponent, Congresswoman Julia Letlow, is that she “earned the endorsement of President Trump.” However, the endorsement was totally engineered by Governor Jeff Landry through the political back door.

What did Julia Letlow do to earn the endorsement? Was it her lifetime commitment as a liberal academic to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), policies that President Trump strenuously opposes? Was it her liberal voting record in Congress that was in direct opposition to the President’s Make America Great Again (MAGA) and America First agenda?

Was it her vote to fund the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) during the Biden administration that allocated taxpayer money toward abortions and gender reassignment surgeries overseas?

Was it her staunch support for Biden’s Green Energy and Climate Change agenda, including carbon sequestration?

Was it her record of incompetence, passing no bills into law during her five years in Congress?

In contrast to her history of liberalism and ineffectiveness, I offer Louisiana voters a record of achievement and honest service. I am a physician, military veteran, small business owner, and job creator. I served as a Louisiana Congressman, Deputy Chief of Staff to President Trump, and was Co-Founder of the House Freedom Caucus. Presently, I am honored to serve as your Louisiana State Treasurer.

My voting record is unabashedly conservative, staunchly supporting MAGA and America First policies. I totally oppose the Green Energy and Carbon Sequestration scams.

Unlike my opponent, whose campaign has been referred to both the Federal Election Commission and the Department of Justice for investigation and who admitted to late filings of 210 stock trades, there is no blemish on my record. In fact, as a Congressman, I did not engage in stock trading.

As Julia Letlow’s liberal views are being exposed, her poll numbers are falling. In recent days, her own pollster announced that I am leading in the polls.

The more she drops in the polls, the more desperate and unhinged her attacks become. Her campaign is panicking and issuing shrill statements to confuse and intimidate voters.

Fortunately, Louisiana voters are smart. They know Julia Letlow will not debate me because she cannot defend her record. They know that Governor Landry and his allies are pumping millions of dollars of dark money into this race to support her. These insiders oppose me because they know I cannot be bought, bullied, or bossed.

I am running for the United States Senate because Louisiana needs a senator who will challenge the political establishment, both in our home state and in our Nation’s Capital, not accommodate it.

Louisiana voters face a clear choice in this Senate runoff. You can continue sending politicians like Julia Letlow to Washington who only talk about conservative values, or you can elect me, a proven conservative fighter who has spent a lifetime defending them.

Throughout my career, I have stood unapologetically for limited government, fiscal responsibility, secure borders, energy independence, and the sanctity of life. I have consistently placed principles above political convenience.

Friends, as the only genuine MAGA conservative in the runoff, I am asking for your vote to become Louisiana’s next U.S. Senator.

Early voting continues through June 20, and Election Day is June 27.

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After starting from scratch, Strother built Florien into basketball dynasty

By RAYMOND PARTSCH III, Special to the LSWA

If not for a determined crop-dusting principal, Dewain Strother would have likely spent decades working in lumber mills, instead of becoming one of the winningest girls high school basketball coaches in United States history.

Despite being an all-district guard at Plainview High School for Louisiana High School Athletic Association Hall of Famer O.D. West and helping the Hornets claim the state championship in 1965, Strother had no intentions of going to college.

Raised in the Rapides Parish woods west of Glenmora, Strother firmly believed he was done with schooling upon graduation. Thankfully, Plainview principal Mike Irving had other plans.

“I had been in school for 12 years. That was long enough,” recalled Strother.
During his senior year, Strother wanted to take shop class, but the school had him in English 4. So Irving made him a deal. He could take shop class, but if he messed up, then back to English he would go.

“I left school without permission one day,” Strother said. “I think they were watching me under a magnifying glass. I was put back in that English class. (Irving) then helped register me for Northwestern State, flew me up there in his little four-seat Cessna plane to take a test, and that is how I got up there.”

That would set into motion a storied career, as Strother would lead Florien High School to six state championships, five runner-up finishes, and 21 semifinal appearances. His 1,235 victories are the most by any girls basketball coach in state history, and the second most in the nation.
“It ain’t about me,” Strother said. “It’s about those girls on the floor. They put the work in. They bought into what they needed to do. All the players who have gone through my program are successful. Nurses, police officers, teachers. I am amazed. I am just amazed. They are successful in society.”

Many will be in the audience watching Strother in the spotlight Saturday evening, June 27, culminating three days of activities celebrating him and the rest of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame’s 12-person Class of 2026. For participation opportunities and more information, visit LaSportsHall.com or call 318-238-4255.

“It is well deserved,” said former longtime NSU women’s coach James Smith. “I have been hollering for a long time. It is really hard to believe. He can go back to the first game he coached. He still has a scorebook. He still has every book. That’s amazing to me. He is a special coach and a good guy. He gave himself to Florien and girls basketball for a long time.”

Like many young boys in rural Rapides Parish during the 1950s and 60s, Strother fell in love with basketball.

“I always loved the game of basketball,” Strother said. “At home, when we finished our chores, I would go outside and play basketball until mama hollered about supper.”

That love would carry over as he would go to play for West at Plainview, first as a bench player and then as the starting point guard. The lessons that he would utilize in his own coaching career are rooted in the time spent in the small gymnasium at Plainview.

“He basically made sure that we were well-behaved kids, and made the grades, and in the gym, he made sure we were fundamentally sound,” said Strother.

Those lessons were also done in a condensed amount of time, due to the school’s rural location.

“We didn’t practice after school,” Strother said. “We had 30 minutes during gym to work on fundamentals. We didn’t have any way to get home if we practiced after school.”

His on-court career came to a close upon graduation in 1968, but thanks to his principal, he would return to the hardwood in a different capacity, but not before one more detour.

In 1970, Strother married and stepped away from his studies at NSU to provide for his family. It didn’t take long to realize the plywood mill wasn’t for him after all.

“I realized that I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life in the mill,” Strother said. “My late wife, Charlotte, got a job at Ft. Polk, and her pay took care of everything. She said, ‘Go back and finish school.’ With her support, I went back.”

After graduating with his bachelor’s degree in 1974, Strother would be hired as an elementary physical ed teacher at Florien, located roughly 40 miles southwest of Natchitoches. He would keep books for the boys team before being asked to begin the girls basketball program in the early 1980s.

It didn’t take long for Strother to mold the Black Cats into one of the state’s best programs. In his second season, the team won the district championship, and then in 1986, they advanced to the semifinals, losing to Starks. Then came a state runner-up finish in 1987 to Starks.

The girls at Florien had bought into his style of “90-foot basketball.”

“The girls saw what we were doing,” Strother said. “It was exciting. The goal for the next year was to get back to state. We went back and made it to the finals. That started everything for us.”

“He was very intense at the time,” said Florien coach Angela Anthony, who played for Strother. “Kids nowadays could not have played for him. We had a good time, but we took care of business. All the girls were 100 percent bought in, and our parents were bought in.”

The seeds had been planted for one of the greatest runs in girls’ basketball history in Louisiana.

Florien claimed its first state championship under Strother in 1989 by rolling Chatham, but the next year lost the title game to Sabine Parish rival Zwolle, 47-35. That championship loss would be the last one for more than a calendar year.

In 1990-91, Florien went 48-0, defeated Holden for the state crown, and was ranked No. 13 in the nation — the perfect season.

Florien would repeat in 1992 by beating Pitkin for the state title, then win the title again in 1993 over Zwolle, and defeat Doyle for the crown in 1994.

In six years, Florien went to six consecutive title games, hoisting the title trophy five times.

“It was amazing,” said Strother’s daughter, Jessica Caroline, who played for her dad. “Florien, it was on the map. Everybody knew about Florien. Everybody knew Dad. Everybody still knows Dad. They will say, ‘he is so amazing, and I wish we had a coach like him.'”

“They always had great players,” James Smith said. “Dewain’s kids were well coached. You weren’t getting kids who were raw and had to teach them everything. They were disciplined and fundamentally sound. They had so many games and practices, and it showed. They just wanted to win. No one intimidated them.”

The key to Strother’s coaching success was humility, as the coach never stopped trying to learn and improve.

“After my first year as head coach, I thought I knew basketball, but I didn’t,” Strother recalled. “You have to find out who the five best players are playing together, not the five best overall. That summer, I went to Bobby Knight’s coaching clinic. I wrote in pad after pad of notes.”

Strother added, “Anytime I got a chance, I went to clinics. Jody Conradt, Dean Smith, Jim Calhoun, and Geno Auriemma. I have seen all of them and listened to them. I educated myself on the game and never looked back.”

“He was always wanting to learn something new,” daughter Caroline said. “The coaches these days are not like they used to be. Even through all of his fussing or screaming on the floor, he was still teaching us something. You don’t get that nowadays.”

Strother retired after the 2022-23 season following a storied career filled with a gym full of accomplishments and even more memories. The legendary coach imagined spending his days playing golf, but that first year, he didn’t play at all due to knee replacement surgery. It didn’t take long for him to have the coaching itch.

This past year, Strother returned to Florien to help his former player, turned assistant coach and then head coach. The Black Cats won 18 games and earned a playoff berth.

“He came back with a vengeance,” Anthony said. “He had rested up for two years, and he was raring to go. They (our girls) got something they weren’t expecting to get.”

“I truly enjoyed it,” Strother said. “My whole demeanor had changed because I felt useful again. It is great to be back.”

Strother is back where he was destined to be — on the hardwood of a small high school gymnasium.

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In a nutshell, yes.  To be fair to restaurants, though, it seems like the price of just about everything has gotten ridiculous.  In my research for this article, I found the website latestcost.com, which has a blog post on the average cost of a burger. The site has tons of pop-up ads that are a deterrent for spending much time delving into their blogs but I was intrigued with their vast list of average costs they discussed in their blog posts. According to their data, the average cost for just a hamburger with no sides or a drink is $3.50 – $12.00.  I don’t know about where you live, but in my neck of the woods, $3.50 is going to get you a burger that you would normally find in a kid’s meal with little to no nutritional value.  According to the website datassential.com, burger prices have risen by 14% since 2023 while beef production costs surged 32%. The average net profit margin a restaurant makes on each hamburger sold is 10 – 15% for a regular burger and 12 – 18% for a gourmet burger. 

There are ways to save when dining out. The easiest way to reduce your costs is to order water instead of a drink. According to moneydigest.com, the markup for a fountain drink at a restaurant ranges between 650% to 1,100%! Consider sharing a meal with your spouse, date, or friend. By sharing your meal, you’ll not only leave your wallet a little fatter, you’ll keep from growing your girth. You can also save on your meals by using coupons or discounts that may be available through your credit card or bank card. You may also find discounted gift cards at your local membership club or through gift card exchange websites. You can explore recommendations for gift card exchange websites at pcmag.com, which suggests you read a website’s FAQ section to determine if they offer a money-back guarantee before making any purchase.

Got a question about work, money, family—or just figuring life out? Ask Ida is where real people get real answers, served with humor and plain talk. Send in your question, and let’s make sense of life’s bumps together. ASK IDA

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Joseph Hunter Pierson, Jr. went to be with his Lord on June 12, 2026 at the age of 75, following a battle with Melanoma. His courage and bravery were surpassed only by his fierce love and devotion to his family. Joe was born on August 1, 1950 in Natchitoches, LA to Joe H. Pierson, Sr. & Margaret Barnes Pierson. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bobby Pierson, nephew, Kevin Pierson, and brothers-in-law, Terry Cleland and Johnny Cloud.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Pat; his daughter Alicia Pierson Fidanza and husband, John III, of Baton Rouge and son, Joshua Nolen Pierson and Fiancée, Haley of Natchitoches.

Left to cherish his memory are grandchildren, Anna Margaret Harris of Baton Rouge, William Hunter Harris of Ruston, and Calan Walker Pierson and Camille Faith Pierson of Van Alstyne, TX, Step grandchildren include Nicole Fidanza of Lexington, KY; John Fidanza IV of Jupiter, FL; Anna Maria Fidanza of Baton Rouge, and Anthony Fidanza of Zachary. He is also survived by his sisters, Ruth Pierson Cleland of Lake Charles, LA and Susan Pierson Berndt (Barry) of Beaumont, TX.

Joe will be remembered for his passion for good food, his love of entertaining family and friends, his deep commitment to City Bank, and his dedication to “getting things done on time”. He graduated from Natchitoches High School in 1968, attended LSU briefly, then enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1969. He went on to receive an Honorable discharge as a Specialist 5 in 1971. He always remained deeply proud of his military service.

Joe then enrolled at Northwestern State University, playing on the NSU Golf Team which went to the NAIA National Tournament three consecutive years. He graduated with a B. S. in Business Administration and a minor in Economics in 1974. He also began his banking career at City Bank & Trust Co. and worked there, holding various positions until 1987, when he & Pat relocated to Greenville, NC, where he was employed by Wachovia Bank and she was the Head Women’s Basketball Coach at East Carolina University. After five successful years in each of their careers, they returned to Natchitoches and Joe assumed the role of President & CEO at City Bank, where he served until his retirement from that position in 2015. He continued serving as Chairman of the bank’s Board of Directors until February of 2026. He was also awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the Louisiana Banker’s Association, for 53 remarkable years of service to the banking industry.

Joe was involved in civic and community organizations throughout his life. He was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church, a longtime member of Rotary International, having been recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a member of the Agitator’s Club, the Monday Lunch Bunch group, a former President of the Natchitoches Chamber of Commerce and served on many boards and committees in those various organizations.

Joe’s life long love of duck hunting was a prominent focus and passion for him. Working as a partner in his beloved Bayou Pierre Wildlife, LLC was his favorite pastime and gave him such a source of pride, generously sharing it with fellow hunters, friends, and family.

In their retirement, Joe and Pat enjoyed traveling-pheasant hunting in South Dakota in October, duck hunting in Louisiana in January, August trips to Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, all spent with dear “hunt group” friends. A special thanks goes to John & Sarah Luster for introducing , inviting, and always including them in being a part of this wonderful group of people. The memories made are priceless.

They enjoyed many Alaska fishing trips with dear friends, as well! Joe loved seeing God’s creation, untouched by humans, and it was a very spiritual thing for him.

Joe and Pat were humbled and honored that City Bank employees and Directors established the Joe & Pat Pierson Scholarship at Northwestern State University recently. Memorials in Joe’s name may be given to that scholarship fund at NSU or to First United Methodist Church, Natchitoches, LA.

The family would like to express their deepest thanks to Dr. Bill Luster, Dr. George Ingrish, Kirk Soileau & NRMC, Dr. Akhtar, Dr. Richards, and the staff at the Cancer Center, and the staff at Hospice of Natchitoches for their wonderful care and concern.

Services will be held at First United Methodist Church on Thursday, June 18 in the sanctuary with visitation from 9-11 and the service will be held at 11am.

Pallbearers will be John Ackel, Jeff Fair, Ken Guidry, Mickey Hennigan, Pat Johnson, Rayburn Smith, Will Harris and Calan Pierson.

Interment will follow in Memory Lawn Cemetery.

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At the Louisiana United Methodist Church Annual Conference held in Baton Rouge, Louisiana from June 9 to June 12, 2026, local resident, former educator and local realtor Marvin Blake, Jr was appointed the local pastor at Macedonia United Methodist Church in Florien, Louisiana. The church is located at 957 Yellow Pine Road in Florien, Louisiana.

The new Pastor was recommended by the United Methodist Church District Committee on Ordained Ministry (DCOM) to North Louisiana District Superintendent Dr. Romonalynn Bethley who recommended him to United Methodist Church Bishop Delores J. Williamston. 

Prior to his appointment, the new pastor enrolled in the United Methodist Church License to Preach School and completed all course work in May of 2026. He plans to work toward a master’s degree in theology in the Fall at SMU Perkins School of Theology.

A native of Natchitoches, Marvin is a graduate of Natchitoches Central High School and Northwestern State University. He is married to his high school sweetheart Ethel Claiborne Blake, and they have three sons, Christopher, Jonathan and Brandon. Two daughters-in-law Dr. Shontell Blake and Dr. Erin Blake and three granddaughters Madison, Kendell and Kennedi Blake. As a newly appointed local paster, he looks forward to family, friends and former colleagues from Natchitoches and surrounding areas stopping by on occasion to visit him and his church family at Macedonia.

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Hall of Fame’s Round Table Luncheon will provide up-close, memorable moments

The “youngest” event during this month’s Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration is the most exclusive, yet casual, opportunity for the public to enjoy hearing from the Class of 2026 inductees.

It’s the Round Table Luncheon Saturday, June 27, at noon at Riverside Reserve, 104 Mill Street, in Natchitoches. There are still seats available for the eighth annual Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation.

Registration is available for the luncheon can be made by visiting LaSportsHall.com, or by calling 318-238-4255. It is a ticketed event.

Festivities begin Thursday evening, June 25 with the free of charge Welcome Reception from 5-7 open to all, no registration necessary, at the Hall of Fame museum facing the traffic circle at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches.

The BOM Celebrity Bowling Bash is at midday Friday, June 26 at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. Friday evening brings the free Rockin’ River Fest concert on Cane River Lake in downtown Natchitoches, from 6-10:30, with the Class of 2026 introduced at 9:15 right before a sports-themed fireworks show over the water.

Events Saturday, June 27 include the free Saints and Pelicans Junior Training Camp for kids, the Round Table Luncheon, and the Induction Reception and Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center.

The Round Table Luncheon starts with tremendous Louisiana cuisine and quickly kicks into gear with Fox Sports announcer (and 2020 LSHOF inductee) Tim Brando interviewing small groups of inductees on stage in a very informal and fast-moving setting.

A poignant scene at the 2019 luncheon unfolded before the program when Peyton Manning, being inducted later that day, stopped by to greet LSU legend Johnny Robinson, who was inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame two months later.

Scenes like that, up-close access and the fun-filled dialog between Brando and the 2026 inductees combine to provide a memorable 90 minutes.

The Class of ‘26 is headlined by a star-studded group:  Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2025 inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother.

Alexandria native and LSU baseball hero Warren Morris will receive the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, earning enshrinement into the LSHOF. His walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU and resulted in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

LSU graduate and New Orleans native Gil LeBreton and multi-faceted Shreveporter John James Marshall are going into the Hall as the 2026 winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. Former Tioga girls basketball coach and nationally-acclaimed high school sports administrator Kathy Holloway is being inducted as the recipient of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The Hall of Fame Round Table Luncheon shapes up as a highly entertaining opportunity for guests to have a up-close-and-personal experience and be entertained and well fed in a casual setting, with a touch of elegance at the Riverside Reserve on the banks of Cane River Lake just a mile from downtown Natchitoches.

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Whether you combine finances or keep things separate, one thing matters most—having honest, regular conversations about money before it becomes a problem.

 See what Ida says 

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By Richard Searles

Education, infrastructure and economic development among top priorities

BATON ROUGE, La. — The Louisiana Legislature adjourned its 2026 Regular Session after approving a balanced $47 billion state budget focused on education, economic development, infrastructure improvements and debt reduction.

The budget includes approximately $4 billion in State General Fund support for K-12 education and $1.3 billion for higher education. Funding also includes $420 million for early childhood education and $30 million for tutoring programs.

Lawmakers approved more than $360 million in economic development initiatives, including incentives for higher-paying jobs, business site development and workforce recruitment efforts.

The Legislature also allocated more than $500 million for additional road and infrastructure projects, $33 million for Medicaid home and community-based services and $144 million to reduce state retirement debt.

Before adjourning, lawmakers approved a new congressional district map, eliminated vehicle inspection sticker requirements in most parishes, added $50 million to the fortified roof grant program and approved additional protections for minors online.

During the session, legislators considered more than 2,500 measures and sent more than 900 bills to Gov. Jeff Landry for consideration.

The 2026 Regular Session concluded with lawmakers approving major investments in education, infrastructure and economic development while advancing a wide range of policy measures affecting Louisiana residents.

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Hundreds of kids who dream of playing in the pros – or, kids who just love to play – can get signed up for the free New Orleans Saints & Pelicans/Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Junior Training Camp on Saturday morning, June 27 on the Northwestern State campus in Natchitoches.

The JTC annually provides two hours of full throttle fun alongside Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame members and NSU coaches, and staff from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans community relations department.

The clinic registration can be done quickly on the LaSportsHall.com website under the “events’ button. Or parents can call the LSHOF Foundation office at 318-238-4255 for registration help. The camp fills to its 300-kid capacity almost every summer.

The LaSportsHall.com website has the full schedule for the Induction Celebration June 25-27. The JTC is one of three free events, beginning with the Thursday evening Welcome Reception from 5-7 at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches. The biggest free ticket is Friday night, June 26 Rockin’ Riverfest concert from 6-10:30 on the downtown riverbank, featuring a fireworks show after the Class of 2026 is introduced at 9:15.

The Junior Training Camp runs from 9-11 a.m., starting with registration between 8-9 a.m. at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center (WRAC) gymnasium on the NSU campus. It’s important for parents to get their campers checked in well before the fun starts at 9 a.m. Then, campers get introduced to the sports stars who will be coaching them for the next two hours, inside focusing on basketball skills, and outside at Turpin Stadium, with football and general sports skills instruction.

Every camper will bring home two free T-shirts, other items, and a coupon for a meal at Raisin’ Canes. Photos from the camp will be posted on the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Facebook page, and so will a highlight video.

The goals of the JTC are simple – a fun, and thrilling, experience for the kids, free of charge; skills instruction from some of the best to ever play, or coach, the games; and promotion of health lifestyles and positive life choices.

The campers are separated into two groups. One stays inside for the first hour for basketball instruction, while the other is next door at Turpin Stadium, having football fun. The groups switch locations in the second half of the camp.

Parents can follow their favorite campers and watch all the fun from the stands in the gym and on the east side of Turpin Stadium – where it will be sunny, and hot, watching some really cool memories being made.

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What a relief. There’s a big Congressional hearing Wednesday on the “Protect College Sports Act of 2026.”

“Supporting Student-Athletes, Restoring Fair Competition and Saving the Games Fans Love” is the stated mission of Senator Ted Cruz and colleagues.

“We cannot allow college athletics to morph int o a mini-NFL or NBA,” said Cruz in an official statement announcing the hearing.

Senator, you’re late. By decades.

Some of it is fine by me. Absolutely if coaches are raking in mega-million dollar salaries, as they have been on the top shelf of the NCAA for this century, then the players ought to be cut in on the pie.

These seven-figure NIL deals we hear recruits and transfers are getting are no more excessive than the eight-figure contracts that are going to head coaches. Neither should exist, but …

We’re never going back to college sports as we thought they were. That will happen right alongside peace in the Middle East and admitting a messy CIA-Mafia conspiracy took out JFK.

You’ll get a lot more clarity June 12 when Steven Spielberg’s “Disclosure Day” hits movie screens and we find out Bigfoot uses UFOs to get away from prying eyes.

Ridiculous? So is the idea that Congress can solve this mess. We know the high level university presidents and conference commissioners can’t. Their first priorities are their own bottom lines. And it’s their second and third priorities, too.

The presidents punted on this long ago. It’s great that the former Ohio State president testifying Wednesday, Gordon Gee, is the same bold leader who offered these gems discussing an NCAA scandal staining the Buckeyes’ football program:

• “Let me just be very clear: I just hope the coach doesn’t fire me.”

• “They run the athletic department and I run the university., and I should have stayed out of there.”

He will no doubt show up at the hearing in his trademark bow tie. Looks academic. Here’s the clown Congress will hear from Wednesday: he ran up thousand-dollar luxury hotel bills on university expense accounts, got Ohio State to pay for $500 shower curtains for his university-provided house, and his marketing aces spent over $64,000 on bow ties, bow tie cookies and bow tie lapel pins for Gee and others to distribute over four years, according to reporting by the Dayton Daily News.

Surely he knows what’s good for the future of college sports.

Nick Saban will testify. He DOES know what’s good for the future of college sports.

He’s been telling anybody who will listen since the day he called it a coaching career, in part because their NIL package was the first and primary topic raised by practically every one of the first 20 or so players who he met with to discuss their futures with the following season’s Crimson Tide.

Listening to sages like Saban, and doing something about what you’ve heard, is where the disconnect exists with the presidents who make up the NCAA hierarchy and lead the Power 4 conference schools.

They are hoping Congress will impose its will where they would not. The Hatfields and McCoys have been sniping at each other across conference lines for decades instead of collaborating for the common good.

Now a group of presidents, board members and donors calling itself “Saving College Sports” – there’s even a snazzy letterhead – has presented Cruz and pals with a letter of support signed by dozens. New LSU president Wade Rousse’s name is on the letter. He told Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports he didn’t authorize his name to be included. Now that’s a reform-minded group, randomly claiming converts to its cause.

Know what’s missing from Wednesday’s festivities? Anyone not at the top tier. There are more than 360 NCAA Division I athletic programs. The issues discussed under the Capitol Dome tomorrow are so far out of scale for almost 300 of them that the eventual outcome for the non-Gucci schools is painfully predictable.

We saw it last month when the NCAA basketball postseasons, men and women, were padded to 76 teams – strictly a money grab for the biggies to get more teams in March Madness.

It doesn’t matter what’s good for the masses. It just comes down to what’s best for the masters of the college sports universe.

And they’re counting on a blow-hard heavy Congress, dripping in money from PACs and lobbyists that dwarf their actual salaries, to make it better?

Odds on that rank right up there with Jimmy Kimmel playing a round of golf with President Trump.

The ultimate solution to this mess will be when it crashes, drained of cash from disillusioned donors. Then we can hope that with nearly divine intervention, or desperation,  university leadership from across the far-reaching landscape gets real and sorts it out into authentic tiers of economically-sound competition with real oversight and rules that get enforced.

As likely as Fox News and CNN merging.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

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The Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court’s office continued to be busy recording new leases as it filed 76 more oil and gas leases during the month of May 2026.

Natchitoches Parish Clerk David Stamey confirmed that activity remains steady in the area described as from Interstate 49 at Highway 6, along La. Highway 6 to the Sabine Parish line and approximately 10 miles north into the Spanish Lake bottoms. However, leasing has now occurred south of La. Highway 6 and across I-49 on the east side of the interstate. There was one lease in the far northeastern portion of the parish near the Red River Parish and Bienville Parish lines, indicating activity is also occurring in neighboring parishes.

“This is wonderful economic news for our area,” Stamey said, “but it will be even better with every gas well that is drilled. Drilling has mostly been in the northwest portion of Natchitoches Parish, but indications are that production companies have been pleased.”

Stamey mentioned that his office has been busy with both in-person abstracting and online access for conveyances dating back to 1905. “We have been lucky to meet abstractors from companies new to the Robeline field,” Stamey said. “We thank them all for their business.”

The geographic expansion of leasing activity represents a significant shift, with operators now securing acreage beyond the traditional Robeline Field concentration and into previously untapped areas across parish boundaries. Activity across I-49 and into the northeastern portion of the parish suggests operators are assessing broader geological targets within the Haynesville Shale formation.

The seismic 3D graphing project, active across a 310-square-mile area mostly in Natchitoches Parish, supports this expanded exploration strategy. This extensive subsurface mapping work indicates operators are preparing detailed geological models across a much larger footprint than the initial Robeline Field concentration.

Landowners approached with lease offers or seismic survey requests should understand the complexity and long-term consequences of these agreements. If you are not an expert in oil and gas matters, strongly consider contacting a qualified oil and gas attorney before signing any documents. Mineral leases can have significant implications for mineral rights, royalty structures, surface rights and future property use. Professional legal guidance is essential to ensure fair terms and protect your interests.

A review of Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court records confirms the 76 leases filed in May 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: 279

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Partner Rodney Harrington says that with the proliferation of leasing going on in Natchitoches and surrounding parishes, many land owners are at a loss of what they should do and whether or not they are making the right move to lease their property. 

Harrington said he worked many years as a petroleum land man meeting with landowners on behalf of oil and gas leasing companies to try and convince them to lease their property.  

“It’s usually a good idea to lease your land as opposed to leaving it unleased,” said Harrington, “But you want to make certain you are making the best deal possible and that the terms of the lease are the most favorable to you.”

“You need to remember that the agents working for the leasing companies, or ‘lease hounds,’ as they are sometimes called.”  Harrington continued, “They are trying to get the best deal possible for their company and lease your property under the terms most favorable to them.  That’s their job.”  Harrington also said that his previous employment as a petroleum land man gives him a unique prospective.

“I know how these guys think,” he said.  “It’s not that they’re trying to take advantage of landowners for the most part, it’s just that, as I said, their job is to make the best deal possible for their employer.”  He did say there are also some “bad actors” out there.

Harrington said that he has recently represented several clients in Natchitoches Parish in lease negotiations and has been able to obtain significant increases in the bonus payments they were offered and significant improvements to their lease terms.  He also worked extensively in the field during the first Haynesville Shale Boom several years ago. 

The Harrington Law Firm is an AU Rated firm by Martindale-Hubble, ranking it in the top 10% of all law firms in the nation.            

The attorneys also represent clients in the areas of Personal Injury, Bankruptcy, Social Security Disability, Wills and Successions.

You can reach Rodney Harrington at the Harrington Law Firm at 352-5900 or call that number for a free consultation. 

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Celebrate the Louisiana Peach Festival’s 76th year with free admission, a wide range of entertainment and activities, and plenty of peachy events to enjoy leading up to the festival. Browse our guide below and start planning your trip to Downtown Ruston for the weekend of Saturday, June 6.

EAT:
From June 1-6, enjoy Peach Culinary Crawl, a weeklong tasting tour featuring over 20 local restaurants. Each participating location will offer special peach-inspired items. From peach BBQ and burgers to peach cocktails and desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The full Culinary Crawl menu is available on the Peach Fest website.

SEE:
Get a preview of all the arts of the festival with the 39th Annual NCLAC Peach Art Exhibit. Check out the display of local artist of all ages in the Lincoln Parish Library Events Center happening all through July.

– Peach fest hack: After visiting the exhibit, take the quick drive to explore downtown Ruston, scope out the festival grounds, and snap a picture at one of the colorful murals!

EXPERIENCE: There’s plenty to enjoy Friday before the festival:

• Take a stroll through Downtown Ruston and browse the Peach Sidewalk Sale. Participating downtown shops will be offering peachy deals and special promotions from June 3-6.
  – Peach Fest Hack: Find your perfect festival outfit during the sidewalk sale!
• The Peach Parade is a long loved and cherished tradition by festival attendees. The parade will roll down W. Alabama Ave. and N. Monroe St. on Friday, June 5 at 6:00 PM.
• After the parade, you can head over to the North Louisiana Expo Center for the 37th Annual Peach Festival Rodeo for family fun entertainment, trick riders, and more.

Saturday June 6: Festival Day!

Festival activities start at 9:00 AM and there’s plenty to eat, see, and experience—all located on the festival grounds.

EAT:

Festival Eats

• This year, enjoy bites from 15 food vendors, offering everything from burgers, sandwiches, and pizza, to classic festival treats, refreshing drinks, and tasty snacks.
• You’ll also want to pay a visit to the Historic Fire Station for a scoop of frosty peach ice cream from the ladies of Beta Sigma Phi
  – Peach Fest Hack: Ask vendors what their special peach item is! All food vendors create and offer a peachy item just for the Peach Festival

Local Eats
Feeling like a sit-down meal? Check out these local restaurants that are walkable from the festival:

• The Local: morning pick-me-up coffee, pastries, and breakfast bites.
• Uptown Downtown or Heard Freighthouse Food Park: perfect for lunch and plenty of options! For sandwiches, wraps, and a sweet treat, go to Uptown Downtown. For BBQ, Burgers, Chinese, or Mexican cuisine, head over to the Food Park.
• Sundown Tavern or Ponchatoulas: both are beloved Ruston staples with that classic dive bar charm. Be sure to try the fried green beans at Sundown or the stuffed catfish at Ponchatoulas.
• Roma or Utility Brewing: For classic Italian-style pizza, pasta, and fresh salads, take a stroll to Roma’s Italian Bistro. Want to try something different? Utility Brewing serves up creative wood fire-baked pizzas paired with craft beer in a cozy setting.

SEE:

• Festival Art Displays: Discover Plein Air artists painting the scenes and capturing the action of the festival in real time. At Kids Alley, there will be interactive displays and activities for the kiddos to participate in the arts themselves!
• Ruston Antique Classic Car Show: Head over to Cadence Bank from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM for the Car Show. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just love vintage charm, this show is sure to impress with its lineup of beautifully restored classic vehicles.
• Fireworks Show: Stick around till the headliner performance for the Peach Festival’s Firework show at 8:45 PM! This dazzling sky display will take place before the headlining act to kick off the grand finale to the festival.
• Go to www.lapeachfest.com/schedule to see all festival events!

EXPERIENCE:

• Live Music: Enjoy more than 12 consecutive hours of live performances at the Railroad Park stage. With an exciting lineup of artists, the festival’s musical energy will keep you dancing all day long. Don’t miss the headliner, The Chee-Weez, taking the stage at 9:00 PM.
  – Peach Fest Hack: Bring a lawn chair or blanket in case seating runs out!
• Kids Alley: Make fun memories in this family-friendly zone packed with interactive activities and entertainment to keep the little ones smiling.
• Curated Market: Browse the booths of more than 90 vendors, all selling their handmade arts, jewelry, clothing, mugs, decorations, candles, and lots more. Additionally, you can stop by the Peach Fest Sticker Wall in the market—perfect for a fun and unique photo op.
  – Peach Fest Hack: arrive early to the Curated Market before your favorite vendor sells out. Visit www.lapeachfest.com/vendors to get a sneak peek at what vendors are offering.

SUNDAY:

After a busy Saturday, sleep in, take Sunday slow and enjoy Ruston’s cozy charm:

EAT:

• Trios: Enjoy their signature brunch menu in a trendy atmosphere.
• The Local: Order specialty brunch cocktails and bites in the heart of Downtown.
• Beau Vines Steakhouse: Not a brunch fan? Dive into a hearty lunch and bottomless mimosas.

SEE:
While you’re at the festival Saturday, you will likely spot a few of Ruston’s unique bulldog statues scattered throughout downtown. In total, there are 22 bulldogs placed around the city—each with its own charm. Stretch your visit a little longer and turn your Sunday into a scavenger hunt to track down the ones you missed.

EXPERIENCE:
Wind down with a peaceful visit to Lincoln Parish Park. This park offers mountain biking and walking trails, kayaking, fishing, and a playground for the kids. It’s the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of Ruston and cap off your Peach Festival weekend.

From peachy treats and live music to charming shops and peaceful parks, the 76th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival is the perfect way to kick off your summer. Soak up the fun, explore Ruston, and celebrate 76 years of sweet traditions and unforgettable memories!

To learn the insider tips and tricks all seasoned festival goers know, read up on our How to Peach Fest blog.

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It may not feel romantic, but having honest conversations about money, family, and the future before marriage can make all the difference once real life begins.

 See what Ida says 

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The Louisiana Legislature passed SB 121 Thursday, sending a new congressional map to Governor Jeff Landry for his signature following months of debate prompted by a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down the state’s previous district lines.

The Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais found that the previous map unconstitutionally prioritized race over traditional redistricting principles such as compactness and communities of interest. The new map was drawn without race as the predominant factor in determining district boundaries.

The legislation creates five Republican-leaning congressional districts statewide. A review of the enacted map shows that some parishes are split between congressional districts. 

For Caddo and Bossier parishes, both remain unified within the Fourth Congressional District alongside De Soto, Red River, Natchitoches, Sabine, Webster, Claiborne, and Bienville parishes. Central Louisiana, including Rapides Parish, is kept whole within the Fifth Congressional District.

The map now heads to the Governor for signature. If signed, it will govern Louisiana’s congressional representation through the remainder of the decade.

The Shreveport-Bossier Journal will continue to monitor developments.

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