The Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival, which is going to be held on the downtown riverbank May 15-16 has released its schedule for its 29^th Festival, and as usual, it is chocked full with artists for just about every musical taste, including Jazz, R&B (of course), Country, Rock & Roll, Soul, Gospel, Folk, Blues, Zydeco and much more.  

This year’s headliner is multiplatinum Country superstar, Joe Nichols, who will appear on the main stage beginning at 9 p.m. on Saturday, May 16.  Preceding Nichols will be American Idol runner up and Louisiana native John Foster at 7 p.m., local and regional favorites and Louisiana Music Hall of Fame members Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs at 5:25 p.m., hit making R&B/Soul singer, Tiffany Rachal at 3:40 p.m., Natchitoches’ own Country music legend and Curb Recording artist Trini Triggs at 2:35 p.m., with the music being kicked off on the Main Stage by Zydeco legend, Gerard Delafose.  

There will be over 15 bands on three stages with the schedule for the Fleur De Lis Stage and Roque House Stage listed below.  For the first time ever there will also be a Natchitoches Original Music Showcase Stage located at Beau Jardin.  That stage will feature mostly Natchitoches artists performing their original music.

The fun begins on Friday night with Tribute to Legends night which will begin with Led Zeppelin tribute band, The Zeppelin Project at 7 p.m. featuring a faithful recreation of the super group’s hits.

Prior to the Zeppelin, will be Waterloo, the nation’s premiere ABBA tribute act will faithfully create the 70’s Swedish super group’s concert, including dancers and a lights show.  Attendees are encouraged dress up and sing along.  

As always, there will be plenty of great food and kids’ activities at this family event.  For more information and to order tickets go to http://www.natchjazzfest.com

Fleur De Lis Stage

12:00 – 1:00 Snake Doctors.   Led by grizzled veteran, Ed Huey, this Natchitoches based Doctors prescription will be an eclectic blend of Blues, Jazz, Folk, with a little Rock & Roll and R&B thrown in.  You will hear things you’ve never heard before from this entertaining group.

1:10 – 2:10 The Luke Brouillette Jazz Trio (Traditional and Modern Jazz).  Led by guitarist Luke Brouillette, this trio which includes Sammy Nix on drums and Dion Pierre on bass will play through well-loved jazz standards featuring Swing, Latin, and Bebop.  Listen and watch while these virtuosos perform some righteous jazz.  

2:20 – 3:20 Deep Water Rehab – (Classic, Southern Rock, Country, Originals & Covers).  This Winnfield-based band covering Classic & Southern Rock, Country, and even some R&B tunes.  They’ll also be performing cuts from their album of original songs which recently dropped.

3:30 – 4:30 Gumbo Delux  – (R&B/Soul). This is a high-energy Shreveport based Soul/R&B group serving up a spicy mix of covers of great songs of yesterday and today.  

4:45 – 5:45 Junior the Third – (Blues and Jazz).  This Shreveport based trio started out as raw, stripped-down Blues and has stretched into something deeper, shaped by soulful jams, old standards, and the kind of feel you can’t fake.  Pulling from the well of Delta and Hill Country blues, they built a sound that’s less about polish and more about pocket.  

6:00 – 7:00 Becky Birdwell and the Shuffle Kings (Classic Rock/R&B/Country/Gospel).  Becky and her family band has been a fixture at the festival for many years and play a crowd-pleasing mixture of classic rock, R&B, Country with some gospel thrown in.   

Roque House Stage

1:00 – 2:00 The Amazing! Rhythm Disciples (Gospel/R&B/Rock/Country/Inspirational).   This Natchitoches-based Gospel/Inspiration group will perform an eclectic blend of secular and traditional gospel music which will include some Rock & Roll, Country, Rhythm & Blues and Contemporary Christian songs.  Their set includes some unique “Mash Ups” of traditional hymns with more modern secular music.  All of it, music with a message!  

2:10 – 3:10 Jenny & Kelli (Harmonious Rock, Covers, & Originals).  These popular Natchitoches songbirds play a rousing blend of songs that you know and love along with a few of their very own originals.  Every song will feature their spectacular angelic harmonies.   

3:20 – 4:20 Broken Peaces –  (Classic Rock).  This kind of a “Super Group,” made up of members of various bands who have come together to make some great high-energy music, focusing mainly on the Rock & Roll of the 70’s through the 90’s.  

4:35 – 5:35 Badd Apple – (Classic Rock/ R&B).  Led by local legend, Billy O’Con, featuring some of the finest musicians in north Louisiana, this rocking group will have everyone on their feet and dancing from the first note.  

5:50 – 6:50 Jester – (Rock and Blues).  This 3-piece high-energy band, exploding out of Bossier City is fronted by 13 year old guitar protégé and vocalist, Odin Cobb, and is fueled by the thunderous drive of a 17 year old drummer and locked in tight by a veteran bassist.  Don’t miss this highly entertaining act.  

Advance tickets may be purchased at http://www.natchjazzfest.com

Community members in Sabine Parish are invited to come together next month for the annual Sabine Parish Autism Walk, an event focused on raising awareness and showing support for individuals and families affected by autism.

The walk is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Many High School Track in Many.

Organizers encourage residents to gather a team, invite friends and family, and take part in the event designed to promote autism awareness while bringing the community together. The annual walk has become a meaningful opportunity for families, supporters, and local organizations to show unity and encouragement for those impacted by autism.

Participants can expect a welcoming atmosphere focused on community support, awareness, and connection.

For more information about the event, residents can contact Amanda Darwin at 318-581-2383 or Anita Darwin at 318-379-8683.

Organizers say they look forward to seeing community members from across Sabine Parish gather once again for a day dedicated to awareness, support, and togetherness.

“It breaks my heart to think about children growing up with so much uncertainty because one parent isn’t paying what they should. When the support doesn’t come, it’s the kids and the custodial parent who carry the burden every single day — and no family should have to live that way.”

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“How do I set boundaries with my in-laws without becoming the family villain”

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“Are you a homeowner who feels stuck because you don’t have enough equity to sell, but still need to bring your monthly housing costs down?”

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The Sabine Parish Hall of Fame has been officially designated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the board and Chairman Pete Abington announced.

The 28-year-old organization received pro bono assistance from attorney Ronnie Brandon of Many and accountant Stephen Steinke of Steinke and Associates, who donated their professional time and expertise to complete the designation process.

The Sabine Parish Hall of Fame honors accomplished Sabine Parish natives each year at its annual spring induction banquet.

“We are incredibly grateful to Ronnie Brandon and Stephen Steinke for donating their time and talent to help the Sabine Hall of Fame with this important step,” Abington said. “Our board is also deeply thankful for the continued support we receive each year from local businesses, individuals and organizations who believe in honoring the people who have helped shape Sabine Parish. That spirit of generosity and pride in our community is what makes Sabine Parish such a special place.”

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If your current security team’s primary strategy is to “observe and report,” you are essentially paying for a professional witness.

By the time an unarmed guard observes a threat, dials 911, and waits for local law enforcement to arrive, the damage to your property, your people, and your corporate reputation is already done. In the high-stakes worlds of energy infrastructure, commercial real estate, and industrial logistics, minutes of downtime cost millions of dollars.

Waiting for an incident to escalate is no longer just an outdated strategy; it is a massive corporate liability.

The End of Reactive Security

Across Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee, enterprise-level businesses are waking up to a harsh reality: standard security is failing them. The new mandate is proactive deterrence.

Fidelis Protective Services, an elite risk management firm headquartered in Louisiana with a massive four-state operational footprint, is actively replacing the outdated “observe and report” model with specialized, high-impact capabilities designed to neutralize threats before they paralyze your operations.

The Ultimate Deterrent: Specialized K-9 Teams

You can argue with a standard security guard. You cannot argue with a highly trained K-9 detection team.

Fidelis achieves a higher standard of safety by deploying specialized K-9 units alongside highly disciplined security personnel. These elite teams provide mission-critical advantages that standard guards simply cannot match:

• Unmatched Visual Deterrence: The physical presence of an FPS K-9 and a disciplined handler provides an undeniable, non-verbal statement of capability. It forces bad actors to immediately de-escalate or abandon their target.
• Rapid Post-Incident Stabilization: Whether responding to a bomb threat at a corporate campus, an arson risk at a petrochemical plant, or targeted violence at a distribution hub, a FPS K-9’s advanced detection skills allow for the rapid, precise clearing of an environment.

[ WATCH: The Fidelis Standard in Action ] See exactly how the FPS K-9 Division executes proactive threat deterrence and rapid environmental stabilization.

K-9 Tactical Breakdown  “A stabilized environment, when it matters most, requires specialized capabilities,” says Fidelis Protective Services CEO, Lee J. Taylor. “We aren’t just placing a uniform at a desk. By deploying proactive teams across the region, we are actively assessing threats and stabilizing high-risk scenarios so our clients can keep their businesses running.”

Protecting the Infrastructure of the South

From the relentless operational tempo of Oil and Gas facilities in Texas to the complex access control required at major shipping ports in Tennessee and the Gulf Coast, your security strategy must match your operational footprint.

Stop paying for a reactive presence. Invest in a partner that brings elite deterrence, specialized capabilities, and a multi-state standard of excellence to the facilities that power the South.

ABOUT FIDELIS PROTECTIVE SERVICES

Fidelis Protective Services is an elite, multi-state security firm specializing in high-level asset protection, tactical K-9 deployments, and comprehensive risk management solutions. Operating across Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee, Fidelis sets the standard for proactive security operations in the commercial, healthcare, and energy sectors.

Connect with an FPS Operational Specialist for a custom risk assessment:

• Phone: 833-257-3888
• Web: fidelisprotectiveservice.com
• Email: info@fidelisgroupla.com
• Connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/fidelis-protective-services-la
• Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/FidelisProtectiveServices
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@FidelisProtectiveServices

City Bank has announced the appointment of Blake Byles as a new member of its board of directors.

Blake, the son of Mary Hornsby Byles and the late Valmore (R.V.) Byles, grew up in Many, LA and graduated from Many High School. He attended and graduated from Northwestern State University while also serving in the Army National Guard (527^th Division Engineering). He credits his military experience with preparing him for life and business as much as his college degree.

After college graduation he pursued a career in the oil and gas industry which gave him the opportunity to live in different states. Blake quickly realized that Sabine Parish was the best place in the world to settle down and raise a family. He moved back home and started his first business. Blake loves entrepreneurship and today works with many different companies that he started or has acquired interest in. He is also active in the community serving on the Sabine Parish Chamber Board, Sabine Industrial Committee, Economic Development Board, 911 Board, Library Board, Water District 1 Board, Jury Commission, and Knights of Columbus.

Blake enjoys his community involvement but considers the most important part of his life to be his family. He is married to Lauren Vines Byles, and they have two beautiful, sweet daughters and one handsome, wild boy. Together they hope to instill in their children the old school morals and values which promote that everyone should be treated with respect and giving back is the greatest feeling. The family are active members of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Many.

Why rural communities deserve facts and honest debate about carbon capture and storage

I am a small-business owner in Vernon Parish trying to keep my doors open and raise a family in the community I love.

Few issues facing rural Louisiana right now carry bigger consequences for communities like ours than carbon capture and storage.

Some see it as a dangerous experiment being forced on rural parishes. Others see it as an opportunity to bring jobs, stabilize struggling industries, and reverse the population decline many rural communities have experienced for decades.

Representative Charles Owen recently wrote that there are a “litany of unanswered questions” surrounding carbon capture and storage.

On that point, he is right.

There are important questions. But the reason many remain unanswered is not because answers do not exist. It is because the geologists, engineers, and industry professionals who understand the science are often shouted down before the conversation can even begin.

Major decisions that affect the future of our communities deserve more than headlines, rumors, or social media posts. They deserve careful review of the facts and the willingness to listen to people who actually understand the science and economics involved.

And when fear becomes the loudest voice in a discussion, something unfortunate happens.

The very voices we need to hear from become silent.

Representative Owen compared carbon dioxide to weed killer and suggested it should be viewed as a poisonous or carcinogenic substance.

That comparison deserves clarification.

Carbon dioxide is not classified as a poison, and it is not classified as a carcinogen.

It is also already woven into daily life. CO₂ is used in medical manufacturing, fire suppression, agriculture, refrigeration, welding, food preservation, beverage carbonation, and water treatment. It is part of the air in every breath we take; it helps preserve many of the foods we eat, and for many people it is literally in the soda they drink.

The United States has transported carbon dioxide by pipeline for more than 50 years. Today there are over 5,000 miles of CO₂ pipelines, and during those decades there have been no recorded deaths from CO₂ pipeline transportation or injection.

Even the well-known pipeline rupture in Satartia, Mississippi — while serious and deserving investigation — resulted in no fatalities.

Two concerns often raised are that a leak would contaminate soil or drinking water.

Drinking water protection is central to the regulatory process. Class VI wells inject CO₂ thousands of feet below drinking water sources into deep rock formations sealed by thick layers of impermeable caprock — essentially a natural underground lid that fluids cannot pass through.

These same formations have naturally trapped oil and gas underground for millions of years.

CO₂ also does not contaminate soil the way chemicals do. It is part of the natural carbon cycle that plants use to grow, and soil itself releases carbon dioxide as organic material breaks down.

Representative Owen has suggested enhanced oil recovery is acceptable, but sequestration is not. But enhanced oil recovery already works by injecting CO₂ underground — and after the oil is produced, much of that carbon dioxide remains trapped in those formations permanently.

If carbon capture were truly a scam, environmental groups would not oppose it so strongly. Many oppose it precisely because it allows industries like oil, gas, and LNG to continue operating while reducing emissions.

And Louisiana sits at the center of that debate. As one of the nation’s largest energy-producing states, what happens here matters. If carbon capture works in Louisiana, it strengthens the future of American energy.

I know these things not because I read a headline, but because I set aside what I thought I knew and started asking questions of the people who work with this science every day.

Growth rarely comes from a place of comfort. But discomfort forces us to learn and search for better answers.

I am a small-business owner in Vernon Parish trying to keep my doors open. I am also a parent with children in our local schools — one of which could face closure if population trends continue.

That is the math our parish is already living with.

Without the economic impact of Ft. Polk, nearly 58% of Vernon Parish households fall into the ALICE category — families who work hard yet still come up about $5,000 short of the cost of living here.

They earn too much to qualify for assistance, but not enough to make ends meet.

Those families are not statistics. They are our neighbors.

Programs like the federal 45Q tax credit are often criticized as government spending, but they work differently. Companies only receive those credits if they are operating, employing people, and safely storing carbon dioxide.

If Louisiana chooses not to pursue these opportunities, the credit does not disappear. Our tax dollars will still fund the program — the difference is that the jobs and investment will go to states like Texas instead of communities like ours.

At the same time, our forestry economy is under tremendous pressure. When markets disappear, forests go unmanaged, disease spreads, and wildfire risk increases as timber grows overcrowded.

The proposed Class VI well would allow projects like Highland Pellet and Beaver Lake Renewables to locate in our region, supporting more than 1,000 jobs while purchasing roughly 500 additional truckloads of timber each day from Central Louisiana’s timber basket.

Without healthy markets, landowners may eventually clear forests for other development or solar projects. But when timber markets exist, forests are thinned, land remains productive, and rural jobs stay local.

The real question for rural Louisiana is simple: which future makes more sense for our communities?

When jobs disappear, families leave.

When families leave, schools lose students — and the difficult conversations about consolidation begin.

We invest years educating our children, but when opportunity disappears, those same young people often must leave to build their careers somewhere else.

Louisiana helps educate them — and other states benefit from the talent we lose.

Representative Owen and I both care deeply about the future of our communities. We may not be as far apart as it sometimes feels.

But the stakes for rural Louisiana are too high to allow fear, rumors, or division to guide the outcome.

The future of our parish — and rural Louisiana — deserves to be decided by facts, careful consideration, and the shared desire to do what is right for the people who call this place home.

Robert Haymon is a small-business owner in Vernon Parish.

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By Frank Johnson

You run into the store for a few things — maybe it’s a Tuesday evening, you’re tired after work, and you just need the basics. But somewhere between the produce section and the checkout line, the cart gets a little fuller than you planned. A snack that looked good. A deal that seemed too reasonable to pass up. A seasonal item that just kind of… ended up in there.

Nobody’s judging. That’s just what happens when we shop in person. Grocery stores are warm, well-lit, and full of things that smell good and look appealing. They’re meant to be that way.  And most of us walk out spending more than we intended… not because we’re careless with money, but because we’re human.

Here’s what’s worth considering, though.

When you order your groceries for delivery, you’re shopping from your kitchen. From your list. Without the background music, the clever displays, or the free samples pulling you in seventeen directions. You buy what you need, you close the app, and you’re done. It turns out that’s a pretty powerful thing.

Yes, there’s a delivery fee. Yes, you tip your driver… and they deserve it. When you add it all up, you might be looking at somewhere around $12 to $17 extra per order. That’s real money, and it’s okay to notice that.

But here’s the gentle truth: most of us are already spending that — and then some — on things we didn’t plan to buy every time we walk into a store. The impulse buys, the “while I’m here” additions, the deals that aren’t really deals if you weren’t going to buy the item anyway. Research suggests the average in-store shopper routinely spends 10 to 40 percent more than intended.

So when you look at delivery that way, the fee starts to feel a little different. It’s not an extra expense so much as a swap — you’re trading unpredictable, unplanned overspending for a flat, predictable cost that you actually budgeted for. And more often than not, you come out ahead.

It’s a small shift in how you shop. But for a lot of families, it quietly adds up to real savings over time… without any sacrifice, and with a lot less temptation.

Dylan Kyle Poche was born on March 10, 1997, in Natchitoches, Louisiana

In just 18 short years, Dylan left a mark far greater than time could measure. After his tragic and violent passing, Dylan’s family made a decision to hold his first memorial Bass Tournament on May 8th  2016. 
Burt says, The event has grown bigger than we ever would have expected.

Each year, they host a memorial fishing tournament in his honor. Proceeds fund a scholarship through Northwestern State University, Dylan’s name continues to open doors and change lives for generations to come.

This year, a portion of tournament proceeds will also benefit Hope For Lydia

Registration Deadline:  March 27, 2pm

Tournament Information:  www.dylankylepoche.com

Online Registration:  https://app.fishingchaos.com/tournament/421EecWiVrOyjr7ynXJz

10th Annual Dylan Kyle Poche Bas Tournament
Date: March 28, 2026

Location: Cypress Bend Park

Activities
•Kids Fishing from the bank
•Food for all
•Prizes/Raffles
•Kids Jumpers
•Live Band

November 23, 1939 — March 8, 2026

Funeral services for Marlene Jackson “MiMi” Pitt, 86, will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Little Flock Baptist Church, 1805 Little Flock Rd., Many, Louisiana. A visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until time of service. A burial will follow the service at Florien Cemetery, 1452 N. Nolan Trace, Florien, Louisiana. Officiating the service will be Brother Jimmy Speight.

Marlene was born on November 23, 1939 to Charles Bolton Jackson and Willie Mae Jackson in Many, Louisiana. She passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026 in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Marlene is preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Willie Mae Jackson; sisters, Charlene Wilbanks and Sharon Rollins; and granddaughter, Courtney Denise Pitt. She is survived by her sons, Dennis Pitt and wife, Michelle, of Mineral Wells, Texas and Mike Pitt and wife, Nerissa, of Many, Louisiana; daughter, Debra Denise Pitt Olah of Many, Louisiana; sister, Sue Potter of Elmer, Louisiana; brother, Charles Jackson and wife, Connie, of Florien, Louisiana; 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Honoring Marlene as pallbearers will be Ryan Porter, Brad Pitt, Cody Pitt, Corbin Pitt, Caden Pitt, Logan Pitt, Austin Bellair, and Derek Davis.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Dementia Society of America at Dementia Society of America/donate or Cure Alzheimer’s Fund at CureAlz.org

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

January 3, 1958 — March 7, 2026

A memorial service for Diana Serrett Davis, 68, were held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Siloam Baptist Church, 35480 Hwy 191, Many, Louisiana. Officiating the service was Brother Chuck Lusk.

Diana was born on January 3, 1958 to Wesley and Hazel Serrett in Arnaudville, Louisiana. She passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026 in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Diana loved to watch the sunset every evening. She made it a regular habit to take a picture and post it for everyone to see. She was gifted with a talent for crocheting and when she had free time she enjoyed painting. She loved everything about the beach, lake, or the pool. But above everything, she adored her grandchildren.

Diana is preceded in death by her parents, Wesley and Hazel Serrett and her brother, Dickie Serrett. She is survived by her husband, Jeff Davis of Many, Louisiana; son, Mikey Davis and Felica, of Many, Louisiana; daughter, Christina Faust and husband, Jared, of Robeline, Louisiana; and grandchildren, Audrey Faust and Waylon Faust.

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

September 24, 1960 — March 4, 2026

David Wayne Oliver passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2026 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was born on September 24, 1960 to Bertha Lovelady Oliver and Ross Franklin Oliver in Shreveport, Louisiana.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Bertha and Franklin Oliver; son, Benny Ross Oliver; brothers, John Oliver, Jimmy Oliver, and Ross Oliver; sister, Lanell Steele; and brothers-in-law, Mike Keel and Wiley Wedgeworth.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Dana Robin Oliver; sisters, Faye Wedgeworth, Carolyn Elliott (Jimmy), Charlotte Keel, and Judy Hippler (David); special nephew, Josh Hippler; and a host of nieces and nephews.

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

Dialog and debate are important, and I welcome the opportunity to engage on the sequestration of carbon waste in western and central Louisiana. I offer these words with respect and seriousness.

On 27 Feb 2026, Ms. Lemoine criticized the “what-ifs” being raised by concerned citizens in Vernon and Rapides parishes and suggested we are short-sighted for not embracing the promised jobs and growth. Fair enough.   Wrong, but I understand the point she is trying to get across. No one is rejecting industry or jobs.   Here are a few of my own “what-ifs” for consideration by Ms. Lemoine and by all who ae paying attention to this debate.

What if the author of the 2009 legislation that opened the door to carbon burial (Rep. Jim Morris) had known then what we know now? In his floor speech, all he told colleagues was, “We’re putting carbon in the ground,” and “This is complicated.” He did not appear fully informed. He didn’t explain anything.    He certainly didn’t seem to know this day would be coming.

What if the legislators at that time had perfect knowledge of where we would be today? I believe many members — including my own — would have asked much harder questions.

What if the industry sponsors who pushed Senator Sharon Hewitt’s 2020 bill had told her about the Satartia pipeline rupture? What if they had admitted the true intent was not to bury carbon only in depleted oil fields, but in unmapped subsurface zones with no definable traps like in Vernon Parish?

What if the special interests that backed these bills had done real due diligence on the risks — including potential damage to our water supply, family land, and the second-largest Army training range in America — instead of hoping the details would slip through under cover of darkness?

There are real risks here. This is not like betting on a product that might or might not sell, where the only but serious downside is bankruptcy. Much more is at stake — our groundwater, our land, our way of life, and our national security infrastructure.

What if the industry Ms. Lemoine speaks of would maybe consider another place to send their captured carbon?   No one from around here is fighting the production and sale of wood products (biomass).   We want wood pellet and other timber producers to come here.   It’s what they do with carbon that is the consternation.  We are voracious users of pipelines in Louisiana, right?  What if they pipe the carbon to the Gulf and put it under the ocean floor?   No one EVER thinks of that or even addresses it.  It appears to be ALL OR NOTHING in the CENLA HUB—in Vernon Parish.    What if we think outside the box?

A full, transparent debate has never taken place on these issues.  One side or the other always feels like discussions are slanted or one-sided.    Why not have a public debate?  I extend this public invitation: I will bring a geologist, an environmental scientist, and an engineer, and you can bring who you wish.  Maybe we can get Moon Griffon and Brian Haldane to be the moderators.   Let’s sit down in Vernon or Rapides Parish and have an honest discussion — no spin, no slogans, just facts.

The people of Central Louisiana deserve nothing less.

PS  What if people lying about the Sierra Club being behind the efforts in CENLA?  They’re not.  They came to a meeting.  They might have visited with some folks, but the opposition to carbon burial is not funded by leftists and most of us want nothing to do with the green scam they still relish.   Opposition is organic and local and it’s NOT left wing.  No one around here is fighting oil and gas, timber or progress.

Very respectfully,
Charles A. Owen
State Representative, District 30

Member, Central Louisiana Delegation, Louisiana Rural Caucus, Louisiana Freedom Caucus

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“How do I take our money off ‘subscription auto‑pilot’ and put it back under family control?”
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BATON ROUGE — State Senate President Cameron Henry and House Speaker Phillip DeVillier have both expressed concern about a spate of bills that might give communities veto power over carbon capture projects in their areas.

The push for a local option follows growing concerns of residents, landowners and environmentalists in Louisiana about the possible health implications of having the carbon capture and storage projects nearby.

Carbon capture is the process of capturing carbon dioxide at emission sources, transporting it and then storing or burying it in a deep, underground location.

DeVillier, R-Eunice, said more than 20 bills have been filed in the House that he would consider “anti-carbon capture.” DeVillier said he wants to ensure that the new technology is handled safely but also in accordance with guidance from the Supreme Court, “that says states nor local governments should interfere with interstate commerce. I mean, that is exactly what local option is,” he said.

Henry, R-Metairie, said that “when you’re talking about an industry that’s going to come in and change not only a parish but could possibly change the face of Louisiana, I think having a group of five people go in and say, ‘Under no circumstances will I ever allow this here,’ that’s not practical,” Henry said.

The lawmakers made those comments at a lunch at the Baton Rouge Press Club on Monday.

“Why do couples fight about the same things over and over?”
 See what Ida says about breaking the cycle.

July 28, 1956 — February 14, 2026

Antonia Roberta Randolph Harwell Sonnier, lovingly known as “Tonie,” 69, of Pendleton, Louisiana, passed away on February 14, 2026 at Rapides Medical Center. Born on July 28, 1956, in Zwolle, Louisiana, Tonie lived a life as vibrant and unforgettable as her wardrobe. She was proud of her German heritage and carried that pride in her traditions, values, and strong spirit.

Funeral services for Tonie will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Pendelton Assembly of God Church, 14152 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A burial will follow at Pendelton Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Officiating the service will be Brother Ed Held.

A proud 1974 graduate of Negreet High School, she faithfully cheered on the Indians and often reminded those around her that it was always “a great day to be an Indian.” That school pride stayed with her throughout her life.

Tonie was an accomplished accountant, known for her dedication, intelligence, and sharp wit. She was a proud supporter of Northwestern State University and enjoyed cheering on NSU. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. Her most cherished roles were wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, cousin, and friend.

Above all, Tonie loved the Lord. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and Pendleton Assembly of God was near and dear to her heart.

She is survived by her loving husband, Phillip Sonnier of Pendleton, Louisiana; her children, Amanda James (Neil) of Negreet, Louisiana, Phillip Harwell of Pendleton, Louisiana, Nick Sonnier (Carlotta), and Stacey Sonnier of Oberlin, Louisiana; sister, Kathrine Brown of Plainview, Louisiana; brother, Rodney Randolph (Beverly) of Pendleton, Louisiana; special sisters-in-law, Brenda Pate (Billy) of Valliant, Oklahoma, Kerry Thomas (Harley) of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, and Betty Randolph; sisters-in-law, Louise Stelly (Mike) of Lake Charles and Kat Hooper (Gerald) of Moss Bluff, Louisiana; special friends, Steve and Rose Fontenot; along with innumerable cousins, nieces, nephews, dear friends, and loved ones.

She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Gus Harwell and Ronnie James of Negreet, Louisiana, and Jacob James (Marly), and a cherished great-grandmother to Annalise James.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Hilda Randolph; husband, Joe Harwell; brothers, Peter and Frank Randolph; her beloved aunts known as “The Seven Sisters,” including her godmother, Bonnie Layfield; nephews, Bobby Glen Randolph and Jeffrey Randolph; mother and father-in-law, Ralph and Pat Harwell; brother-in-law, JD Brown; her beloved fur babies, Daisy Mae and Kitty; and her grand dog, Tank.

Honoring Tonie as pallbearers will be Neil James, Jacob James, Andy Randolph, Tracy Brown, Timmy Layfield, Andrew Fultz, Nick Sonnier, and Justin Merritt. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Gus Harwell, Ronnie James, and Tim Layfield.

Tonie had a larger-than-life personality and never entered a room quietly — especially when dressed to the nines. She loved gardening, traveling — especially to the beach — shopping, and took great pride in her purse and shoe collection. She enjoyed cooking for those she loved, was an avid reader, loved working puzzles, and never missed an opportunity to test her knowledge while watching Jeopardy! She loved a good debate and stood confidently in her well-informed opinions.

Even in her passing, Tonie continued to give to others as a selfless organ donor, a final act of generosity that reflected the giving heart she carried throughout her life.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Acadian Ambulance Service, the Sabine Parish first responders, Sabine Medical Center, the compassionate staff at Rapides Regional Medical Center, Pastor Ed Held, the entire Northwestern State University Social Work Department, and Pendleton Assembly of God for their care, compassion, and support. The outpouring of love has been tremendous.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her — and as she would proudly remind you, it was Tonie with an E.

In true Tonie fashion, the family would like those attending her service dress in their most fabulous attire and shoes or Mardi Gras in celebration of her beautiful life.

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

September 4, 1970 — February 19, 2026

Funeral services for Anthony Terrell Ebarb, 55, will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond St., Zwolle, Louisiana. A visitation will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana and again on Monday, February 23, 2026 from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m. A burial will follow the service at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Officiating the service will be Father Timothy Hurd.

Terrell was born on September 4, 1970 to Earl Anthony Ebarb and Brenda Kay Ebarb in Many, Louisiana and passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026 in Shreveport, Louisiana surrounded by his loving family.

Terrell is preceded in death by his brother, Steven Wayne Ebarb; paternal grandparents, Earl and Florence Ebarb; and maternal grandparents, Earl and Mary Olla Malmay. He is survived by his parents, Anthony and Brenda Ebarb of Noble, Louisiana; daughter, Paige Freeman and husband, Kenneth “Spooky” Freeman of Noble, Louisiana; son, Dewayne Ebarb and wife, Ashley, of Many, Louisiana; grandchildren, Ethan Ebarb, Bentley Ebarb, Carson Ebarb, and Brooklyn Ebarb; and a great number of aunts, uncles, nephews, and cherished friends.

Terrell made many friendships through the places he’s worked, including Market Basket, Rivers Builders Supply, and Walmart. His greatest joy outside of work was spending time with his pup, Cosmo, and his grandpups, Tank and Boomer. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. His memory will shine brightly through the lives of those he touched.

Honoring Terrell as pallbearers will be Waylon Malmay, Jeremy Campbell, Trystan Ezernack, Keith Lopez, Josh Winfield, and Daniel Smith. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Cricket Manshack, Kenneth “Spooky” Freeman, Dewayne Ebarb, Josh Ebarb, Trevor Ebarb, and Tyler Ebarb.

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

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