Dolet Hills Lignite Company Dragline to cross I-49 about May 15

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SWEPCO’s Dolet Hills Lignite Company (DHLC) at Mansfield will move a dragline from the Dolet Hills Mine west of I-49 to the Oxbow Mine on east side of I-49. In the planning for two years, the entire move takes 40-45 days. The dragline is a BE 1570 walking dragline, powered by electricity. They weigh eight million pounds. The bucket is 88 cubic yards, and the boom is 325 feet in length. The draglines can move about 17 million cubic yards of overburden annually. Mammoet (mah-moot) is the moving contractor, a veteran of almost a dozen dragline moves of this magnitude.

The dragline will cross south of Exit #162 (Highway 177 Pleasant Hill/377 Coushatta). Dirt and wooden pallets will be placed across I-49 to facilitate the move, and then removed. Interstate traffic will be directed to Highway 1 during the crossing.

The move will occur overnight May 15 between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 16. DOT will close I-49 during this time. The dragline is moving to the newly developed Oxbow Mine on east side of I-49.

New Assistant Principal Introduced

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The new Assistant Principal for Red River Junior High School was introduced to the school board at the May meeting. Superintendent Alison Hughes introduced Dedric Smith. He has been on the job about three months. If you are at the Junior High, say high and welcome Dedric Smith.

Annual Book Sale at the Library

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It is Book Sale time at the local library. The selection is great and the prices are very low. The Red River Parish Library’s annual Book Sale is scheduled for May 18th through 20th.

Librarian Trey Lewis said, “Last year was a really good sale. An entire bookstore was donated for the sale. This year the library has already accumulated a huge pile of donated books.” Lewis said, “the public is welcome to donate more.”

What’s on sale? Lewis said, “There are fiction and non-fiction titles, children’s books, historical works, romance novels. Also there are cookbooks and gardening books and do-it-yourself books.”

“The best part” Lewis added “is the price. Just 25-cents for hardback books. Only a dime for paperbacks.”

The library welcomes donated books all year. Lewis said, “When books are donated we check to see if they are needed by the library. If so they are added to our collection. Others are saved until the spring sale.”

The Red River Parish Library offers a computer room with 16 computers for the public to use. There is a large children’s area and there are computers for kids use. The library has a large meeting room for civic groups and functions. Library cards are free for Red River Parish residents.

A Celebration of Service to Education

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A punch and cookie reception plus awards and congratulations were passed out to 31 employees of the Red River Parish School Board. They were for years service in multiples of five. The presentations were made by Superintendent Alison Hughes at the May 5th school board meeting.

A name that some thought was missing from the list is Clevella “Ma” Gafford. She has served 54 years and will be presented an award for 55 years of service next spring.

Pictures of those present at the meeting and a complete list of teachers and other employees who were honored are below.

5 Years: Connie Allen, Ashley Dees, Ellie Drew, Tina Gantt, Janet Murphy, Betty Owens, Jennifer Pickett, and Tiffany Williams.

10 Years: Earl Creagh and Crystal Williams.

15 Years: Anicia Banks, Betty Calhoun, Joy Dowden, Rhonda Flores, Jill Holman, Rosalyn Murphy, Katherine Smith, and Angela Washington.

20 Years: Kathy Grant, Lula Harris, Cindy Holloway, Lisa Johnson, and Brandi Jones.

25 Years: Jacqueline Daniels, Brenda Iverson, Evelyn Longino, and Charlesetta Sims.

30 Years: Earl Martin.

40 Years: Alice Everett and Henry Kirts.

45 Years: Jerry Carlisle

In concluding the “Years of Service” awards presentation, Superintendent Alison Hughes said, “We appreciate each of you and thank you for the years you have given to Red River Parish.

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ETC…May 12th

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It is graduation time. Both schools in Red River Parish are holding commencement exercises next week.

Red River High School will have commencement on Tuesday May 16th. This year it will be held at Pat Strother Memorial Stadium. The high school gym is the “rainout” location.

These are Red River High School’s graduating seniors: Kori Allen, Felansha Ashton, Cody Blankenship, Jacorea Bonner, Byron Bradley, Jr, Mariah Bradley, Megan Bryan, Dezmand Bryant, Tamirroca Calhoun, Sunni Conlay, Robin Curry, William Davis, Victoria Dowden, Ziaya Drakes, Sarpy Ebony, Timothy Goff, Erica Grant, Antonia Henry, Osama Amir Hizam, Kenya Horton, Malik Jackson, Tichina Jefferson, Asha Jenkins, Antoria Johnson, Brandy Jones, Jonathon Jordan, Christopher Lathan Keith II, Lakeya Lewis, James Lindsey, Jennifer Loftin, Valeri McClelland, Gabrielle McDuffy, Devonta Miller, Angelica Moore, Dvaughnya Mosley, Brianna Nance, Justin Nance, Cameron Pickett, Wilteona Rainey, Tommy Roberson, Jr., Lacey Ross, Starla Ross, Jon Russell, Marvin Russell, Jr., Nykeria Shivers, Caleb Sibley, Deja Sibley, Stoney Slaughter, Jewel Slay, Willie Sloan, Jr. Dequavion Solton, Destiny Speed, Monica Speed, Faith Thomas, Ashley Thomley, Sarah Vargas, Malcolm Venious, Gregory Wallace, Tavares Whitehurst, Deuntray Williams, Laquisha Williams, Alyssa Wood, and Darren Wood.

Riverdale Academy commencement exercises will be held next Thursday, May 18th. Riverdale seniors will walk in the school gym.

Here is the Riverdale Academy graduating class: Steven Bryant, Faith Cason, Madelyn Dupree, Wesley Farley, Sidney Jones, Austin Knotts, Lewis Lawson, Ansley Loftin, Amanda Longino, Cody Martin, Jaylee Riggs, Heather Williams, and Colby Wyatt.

Congratulations seniors!

They Didn’t Get Permission

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A football camp planned for May 13th in Coushatta is stopped by the Red River Parish School Board. At Monday nights meeting the board voted to deny use of school facilities for the camp because the camp organizers never asked for permission, among other problems the board found with the camp.

A flyer presented at the board meeting from the Watson Group Foundation proclaimed that the first annual Reach 1 Teach 1 camp was to happen this coming weekend. It asked potential participants to send in their shirt size in advance and pay a $30.00 fee upon arrival.

Superintendent Alison Hughes reported that she had less than two weeks notice that the camp was planned for Saturday May 13th at the Red River High stadium. Hughes said, “I learned about it from a Facebook post.”

Hughes was not the only one in the dark on the event. Athletic Director Billy Henry, Jr. told the board “I heard about it at the state track meet in Baton Rouge last Friday. I talked with Watson about it.” Henry said he wants to make sure the school is protected and know how the facilities are used.

Newly Hired Football Coach Scott Hale said he first learned about it from someone he met while shopping. Hale said, “Someone asked me if Paul Frasier is coming. I asked Frasier and he said he did not know about the camp.”

No one from the camp was at the board meeting to ask permission to use the school facility. No one at the board meeting had been approached by camp organizers to ask for permission to hold the camp.

A-D Henry said, “Camp organizer Ed Watson’s father had graduated from Coushatta High School over 50 years ago and went on to play professionally for Houston.” Henry added, “I am concerned over possible trademark infringement with logos on the flyer.” Also Henry’s concerns include who the coaches for the camp would be and “I want to make sure our community knows what is going on and nothing we do could be perceived as shady.”

On a motion by board member Richard Cannon and second by Gene Longino the board voted not to approve the camp. Coach Henry was instructed to contact the organizers and inform them of the board’s decision.

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Let Mom Know She Is Special

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What to give your mother on her special day? Evelyn’s Plant Farm suggests beautiful planters or hanging baskets filled with her favorite colors.

Every basket is hand-made with hardy flowering plants. There are many to select from, ready to brighten your Mother’s Day on Sunday. Or you may select from the many plants Evelyn has in stock. Hanging baskets are priced from $9.95 to $15.95.

Fill a large space with color in one of the large planters or barrels from Evelyn’s Plant Farm. Come see the fantastic selection, priced at $17.95 and up.

You may custom design flowering plants for Mom. Select the container and the plants. They will plant them just the way you like. And you only pay for the materials. If you have a planter, Evelyn says to bring it and you only are charged for the plants and supplies to build your planter.

Evelyn’s Plant Farm is located on East Carroll Street, and Evelyn opens daily at 8:00 am. The gift mom will appreciate and remember is waiting at Evelyn’s Plant Farm.

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Employees of the Month Recognized

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Two school employees were recognized Monday night as employees of the month for April and May. Recognition was presented by Rodney Taylor, Jr. of Taylor & Sons Insurance and Financial Services.

The April employee is Randy Jackson of the Building and Grounds Department. His nomination read, “Mr. Jackson works well with others. He is very quick to move onto the next project once the first is completed. He is a very good helper who is always looking one step ahead.”

The May employee of the month is Shanna Moore. Her nomination read, “Shanna Moore is a valuable asset at Ware Youth Center. She is always cheerful, positive, upbeat although the job can be stressful and challenging. She is very efficient and meticulous in completing tasks.”

Taylor & Sons recognizes an employee of the school system each month with a plaque and goodie bag to salute what they do to better the parish educational system.

There was no “Most Improved Student” recognized at the board meeting this month due to the student’s absence. The student will be recognized at the June 12th board meeting.

Red River Deputies Assist in Search for Missing Teen

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On Tuesday, Red River Parish Sheriff Glen Edwards deployed Deputy Randy Thomas and K-9 Cephira to Black Bayou to assist the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) in the search for a missing teen presumed drowned. Following an alert by Cephira, the CPSO Dive Team located and recovered the victim.
In incidents such as this, it is important that agencies pool resources to complete the mission. It is our hope that the recovery will provide closure for the family.

On Saturday evening a 14-year old boy fell from a fishing boat in Black Bayou. His three companions searched but were unable to find him. Caddo Parish Sheriff’s deputies, divers and wildlife and fisheries officers scoured the water since Saturday but did not find the boy.

At last report Tuesday evening the body had not been identified as the missing teen.

Anderson’s Produce Getting Ready for the Season

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It is almost time for the season opening of Anderson’s Produce. Farmer Anderson has been busy all winter and spring getting the crop ready. Anderson’s opens May 17th.

Jason Anderson said “There will be fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes and green tomatoes to fry! Plus we will have potatoes, onions, squash and more of your favorite vegetables. There will be a good selection on May 17th, plus more will be picked every day.”

The crew has been busy constructing a beautiful new waterfall in the flower garden, in addition to other beds of flowers around the produce stand. They promise this year Anderson’s will be more beautiful than ever.

The greenhouses at Anderson’s are loaded with beautiful flowers and a large selection of Boston Ferns. Many will be on display, ready to beautify your home and garden.

“To get the freshest, most flavorful fruits and vegetables” said Anderson “You have to come to the farm.” Anderson’s Produce and Plant Farm is located on Louisiana Highway 174 about half way between LA 1 and I-49.

Red River Has Three State Track Champions

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Riverdale Academy has two state champions. The school reported on their Facebook page “the Rebels competed in the MAIS Class A State Track Meet May 5th at Jackson Academy. We are proud to say that we have two state champions! Jaylee Riggs, senior, is the state champion in shot put and Gracie Almond, junior, is the state champion in high jump. Way to go ladies!” Riggs and Almond are shown above.

Red River High School’s track team brought home the state title in the 400 meters. The state meet was held last Friday in Baton Rouge. Dez Bryant won his third state 2-A championship title. Bulldog Track Coach Billy Henry, Jr. said, “I’m proud of Dez and our whole team that went to the state meet. No one from Red River has ever won three state titles.” Henry added,“the others did well but did not place in the top three of their events.”

Bryant is shown below with his family. He recently signed a track scholarship from Texas Western College.

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New Minister Will Be Involved

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The incoming minister of First Church and Wesley Chapel United Methodist Churches says he will be involved with the community. Recently members of the two churches had the opportunity to meet-and-greet the Rev. Dr. Curtis Carroll.

Carroll said he is excited about coming back to Coushatta. He went to Coushatta High School while a teenager. His father served as minister at First Methodist at the time.

“I want to meet with the Police Jury, Town Council and everyone else in town” said Carroll. “I plan on getting out into the community.”

Rev. Carroll will move to town in July. Interim pastor Doug Cain has served several months, coming out of retirement to fill in. The churches have been without their pastor since Billy Turner died last July.

Traffic Stop Leads to Arrest

RRPJ-Lott-17May10On May 3, 2017 at approximately 7:35 p.m. a Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy observed a vehicle traveling northbound on U.S. 71 entering Red River Parish. The deputy observed an equipment defect on the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop at the intersection of Hwy 71 and Hwy 507 near the Fairview community. After the vehicle came to a stop, the deputy observed two occupants exit the vehicle and suspiciously switch sides.

While speaking with the passenger, identified as Cody Lott, the deputy observed that he was nervous and exhibited physical characteristics consistent with narcotics use. A records check revealed that Lott had a history involving illegal narcotics. Lott eventually admitted that he smoked methamphetamine earlier in the day in Natchitoches Parish.

After speaking with the driver and Lott, deputies were given consent to search the car. Upon approach, an odor consistent with marijuana emanated from inside. During the initial search, deputies located a small amount of suspected marijuana and a torch commonly used in the consumption of illegal narcotics. The K-9 team was then dispatched to assist with the search.

As a perimeter sweep of the vehicle was performed, K-9 Aron alerted near the rear of the car. A subsequent search of the rear seat areayielded a small plastic bag containing a crystal like substance (suspected methamphetamine) and a smoking pipe containing narcotics residue. The items were collected as evidence. Two children, ages 2 and 1, were located in this area at the time of the traffic stop.

After admitting ownership of the methamphetamine and pipe, Lott was placed under arrest and transported to the Red River Parish Jail for booking. The vehicle, which was registered in Lott’s name, was seized by RPSO deputies. The second suspect, along with the children, were released and transported by private vehicle from the scene.

Cody Lott, W/M, age 30 of the 200 block of Bayou Pierre Cutoff, Natchitoches, LA was charged with the following: Illegal Use of CDS in Presence of Persons under Seventeen Years of Age, Possession of Schedule II CDS, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles.

His total bond was set at $7,000 and he remains incarcerated.

ETC…May 10th

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Another BIG Thank You! Reaction to the Red River Parish Journal from folks in the parish and those who live elsewhere and have ties back home has been phenomenal. With each issue the Journal is growing and growing.

The Journal is celebrating its THREE-MONTH ANNIVERSARY with this issue. In a brief 90 days we have become the primary source for news in Red River Parish. One car brand is advertising you don’t have to make your first payment for longer than that.

The conclusion is that there was a tremendous thirst for information in our community. You are telling the Journal that you are interested in the big stories, the small stories, and the everyday stories of life in Red River Parish.

We say THANKS! We promise to keep it up. And with your help in letting us know what is going on where you go to church, work, school, vacation, etc. our coverage will get even better.

Important Dates to Remember
May 9 – Today is the second day of field day activities at Red River Elementary. Today the 3rd through 5th grades will be taking part.
May 10 – Red River High School Band Concert, 5:30 in the Auditorium
May 11 – 4-H Fun Day at Grand Bayou
May 11 – Coushatta Red River Chamber meets at Noon on 3rd Floor of the Courthouse

Make it Easier to Turn Left. The Red River Parish Police Jury has heard from motorists. Give Us A Break. The police jury is sending the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development a letter requesting a left turn light in Armistead. This would make it easier for motorists heading south from US 84 on LA 1 going toward Natchitoches.

The Bridge is Open Again. The US 84 bridge over Bayou Pierre at the Red River/DeSoto Parish line has been REOPENED. The bridge was closed Saturday and Sunday for emergency deck repairs.

Paddle into spring on Cane River Lake

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The first official day of summer is a little over a month away, but the weather in Natchitoches is already perfect for some Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) on Cane River Lake. With construction ongoing most of this year on a downtown riverbank renovation project, Cane River Paddle and Pedal has set up a rental location on the east side of the riverbank at the Church Street Bridge Rowing Dock off of Williams Avenue.

Rentals start at $20/hour. Spring hours are 12-7 pm on Thursdays and Fridays, 11 am – 7 pm on Saturdays and 1-7 pm on Sundays (weather permitting).

To sign up for a class call 318-527-0066 or email caneriverpaddlepedal@yahoo.com.

Starting off the summer right, Cane River Paddle and Pedal will team up with Jennifer Sheffield from Spark Studio to offer SUP Yoga classes beginning Thursday, May 11. The classes will be offered every Thursday from 6-7 pm (weather permitting) at the rental dock location.

No skills are required. All level students are welcome. Registration is recommended but drop-ins will be accepted. The fee is $30 per class. To sign up call 318-401-0162.

***Participants must be able to swim***

“SUP Yoga is a great way for new folks to give yoga a go,” said Sheffield. “It focuses on balance, strength and inner core. Being on the serene water of Cane River Lake, surrounded by nature, creates a relaxing experience.”

Another alternative exercise option is PaddleFit with Gerry Kiefer. Classes will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6-7 pm (weather permitting). The fee is $30 per class. PaddleFit will improve body strength and balance, combining cardio with calisthenics, core and strength resistance.

“It’s a little more of a challenge for those who want to work out and love the outdoors,” said Kiefer. “The goal is to combine fitness with the relaxation of being on the water. What better gym location than Cane River Lake?”

Look for upcoming information on Junior Waterman Summer Camps for boys and girls. Participants will learn basic water skills, Stand Up Paddle Boarding and kayaking. Two-week classes will be offered on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays from June 5-21 for ages 7-16.

To sign up for a class call 318-527-0066 or email caneriverpaddlepedal@yahoo.com.

Cane River Paddle and Pedal recommends comfortable active or swimwear (all under $30) for your best paddling/pedaling adventure. Browse the Showroom location at 780 Front Street, Suite 104, for great accessories, activewear (brands such as 90 Degree high-performance moisture wicking technology) to keep you cool and comfortable. For more information go online to http://www.caneriverpaddlepedalsport.com.

Hometown Student Returns to Coach

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Red River High School has a new head football coach. Scott Hale was introduced to a crowd of parish residents, elected officials, teachers and staff, athletes and parents gathered in the high school gym Thursday afternoon.

Hale was selected from over 20 applicants for the job. He begins coaching at spring football practice today (Friday May 5th).

In his acceptance remarks Hale said, “I’m so glad to be back. This is home. This is where I wanna be because Red River has so many great athletes.”

Hale’s philosophy is to develop in players a work ethic based upon toughness, discipline, faith, moral character and integrity. And he promises to begin in the classroom with a strong emphasis on athletes being students first. He described his program as “win in the classroom then win in athletic competition.”

Coach Hale summed up his philosophy by saying, “our kids will be accountable, and I’ll be accountable, and it will happen.”

Maggio Selected Northwestern President

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The Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System today named Dr. Chris Maggiothe 19th president of Northwestern State University. Maggio has worked at Northwestern for close to 30 years, most recently serving as acting president.

During his tenure his roles have included work in athletics, alumni relations and student affairs.

”I’ve given my professional life to Northwestern and it has been a joy to come to work every day,” Maggio said. “It is an honor to take the role as president full time and I look forward to collaborating with students, faculty and staff to ensure the university continues on its positive trajectory.”

The Northwestern State University Search Committee narrowed the field to two finalists, Maggio and William Wainwright, after interviewing three semifinalists last week.

“Northwestern is near and dear to my heart and the Board could not have made a wrong decision today. Chris is passionate about the university and with his experience and knowledge I am confident he will be a positive leader for the entire community,” UL System President and CEO Jim Henderson said. “On the other hand, Will Wainwright is one of the brightest minds in higher education and his future in Louisiana has no bounds.”

During his interview Maggio outlined his familiarity with the campus and noted its key to success is faculty innovation, an engaged student body and community partnerships. He promises to bring a passion and fervor to the office with a collaborative governing style.

Attempted Robbery Suspect Sought

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The person pictured above is a suspect in an attempted robbery of the Shell convenience store at Armistead. Earlier this week the Sheriff’s Office posted this picture on their Facebook page asking for assistance in identifying the suspect.

At last check on Thursday the man has been identified, however he has not been arrested.

If you have information call the Sheriff’s Office at 318-932-4221.

Repairing the City Ballpark

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New signs, repairing lights, cleaning up the area is all part of the current cleanup and fix-up at the Coushatta ballpark. And therules of using the fields are being posted.

City maintenance workers Dexter Russell and Tommie Wilson on Tuesday were erecting signs with the rules spelled out. They said that many of the field lights were burned out and needed new bulbs. And they are making or other repairs to the facility.

People using the ball fields and surrounding facilities are asked to take care of them, so that others will have them to enjoy.

Academic Excellence Awarded

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The Academic “All Stars” banquet was held on Monday, May 2nd. The graduating seniors in Red River Parish who stood out academically were honored with awards and a delicious meal.

Keynote speaker was Superintendent Alison Hughes. She addressed the parents saying “I know and recognize how hard is to be a parent with the stress put on students to meet the standards set for schools. I appreciate parents help in getting their students to toe the line.”

Hughes congratulated the students for “holding yourself to a standard that insured your success. I wish you luck in the transition to college and careers.” Hughes added “Remember your potential is endless, and we are always here to support you.”

Red River High School had 18 students earn awards and Riverdale Academy had six. The student scoring highest on the ACT test in the parish is Victoria Dowden.

Students who earned ACT Academic Honors are Kori Allen, Cody Blankenship, Steven Bryant, Faith Cason, Sunni Conlay, Robin Curry, William Davis, Victoria Dowden, Ziaya Drakes, Erica Grant, Kenya Horton, Lathan Keith, Sidney Jones, Jonathan Jordan, Lewis Lawson, Jennifer Loftin, Amanda Longino, Valeri McClelland, Cameron Pickett, Wilteona Rainey, Jaylee Riggs, Jon Russell, Stoney Slaughter, and Jewel Slay.

The Workkeys Gold was awarded to Victoria Dowden, Ziaya Drakes, Valeri McClelland, Cameron Pickett, and Jon Russell.

This years Academic “All Stars” Banquet was held at Grand Bayou Resort. Catering was by Southern C Catering of Fairview.

Athletes in Action

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Sports headlines around the parish…Red River Track in Baton Rouge…Riverdale Golf heading to state meet…New Riverdale Rebelettes and Cheerleaders selected.

Now the details.
The Red River Bulldog Track Team headed to the state track meet in Baton Rouge on Friday. They departed the high school at noon on Thursday. Members of the team who qualified for the state meet are Dezmond Bryant, Eric Grant, Chadwick Keith, Kenneth Bradley, Julius Brister, Dvaughnya Moseley, Cardaryous Moody, Shacoby Perkins and Patrick Perkins.

The golf team from Riverdale Academy is headed to the State A tournament Monday in Flowood, Mississippi. The tournament will be held at the Refuge Golf Club. Riverdale begins play at 9 am Monday. Flowood is a suburb of Jackson.

The Cheer team for 2017-18 has been selected at Riverdale Academy. See the pictures below of the Cheer Leaders and Rebelettes.

ETC…May 5th

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Congratulations to Chris Maggio. As you read in Thursdays Special Update, Dr. Chris Maggio has been selected as President of Northwestern State University. Maggio becomes the 19th president of NSU. He had served the past few months as acting president and Maggio put his name on the list for candidates for president. He was one of three candidates interviewed and one of the top two finalists.

Accident in Red River Parish. This information from State Police Troop G. “Tuesday shortly before 12:00 p.m., Troop G Troopers were dispatched to a one-vehicle rollover crash on LA 155, just south of LA 507.

“The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2010 Toyota Corolla operated by 18-year-old Heather Hale of Coushatta was traveling north on LA 155, when for reasons still under investigation, Hale lost control of the vehicle, ran off the right side of the roadway, and overturned.

“Hale was restrained at the time of the crash and sustained minor to moderate injuries. At the completion of the investigation, Hale was cited for careless operation and no driver’s license.” according to State Police spokesman Matt Harris.
LSU Coach Speaker at NSU Friday.  When LSU football coach Ed Orgeron arrives as the featured guest Friday evening at the Northwestern State Legends Gala, he’ll be joined by several more great figures in Demon football history.

Orgeron was a standout defensive lineman for NSU from 1980-83, then began his coaching career with the Demons in 1984. He played for head coaches A.L. Williams (1980-82) and Sam Goodwin (1982-83) and after he earned teammates’ vote as the permanent defensive team captain, Goodwin brought him on as an assistant coach for 1984.

NFL veterans Kevin Lewis, Petey Perot and Gary Reasons, along with record-breaking tackler Gordon Boogaerts and NSU icon Johnnie Emmonswill be part of the festivities this time. They’ll be joined by 2011 NCAA women’s discus champion and Academic All-American Trecey Rew-Hoover, a 2016 Legend honoree.

Old Lights Being Removed. If you have been to the Courthouse recently you probably noticed that the strings of old lights have been removed from the tall columns in front. The Police Jury is in the process of removing all of the old lights and cleaning up the residue from the glue used to attach them. Prior to the Christmas season the Chamber of Commerce will be relighting the Courthouse.

Pharmacy’s Final Days. Fred’s Pharmacy has announced that it is closing in Coushatta on May 12th. Prescriptions will be transferred to Mabile’s Pharmacy, however customers may choose to have the transferred to a different pharmacy. The building is owned by Ben Jowers. He said it would be available if another pharmacy wanted to come to town. Otherwise Jowers said he has not made other plans for the building.