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The Town of Coushatta Water system has experienced problems with our water supply system due to low pressure below 20 PSI.

Because of these problems, the water produced by our water supply system is of questionable microbiological quality.

Therefore, as a precaution, the Coushatta Water System is issuing a BOIL ADVISORY for the entire system effective immediately. The BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by the Water System.

It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks). Making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rising of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption
Until you have been advised otherwise.

The Coushatta Water System will rescind this Boil Advisory upon
Notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals- Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our water supply system have shown our water to be safe.

9:30 am 4-10-25

As crews wait to hear from the gas company, work continues on the water break.  Some valves have been closed, and tanks are beginning to fill.    

7:00 am

According to social media the Town of Coushatta currently has no water due to a damaged water line at the corner of Jones Street and Red River Estates. 

Mayor Ashanti Cole shared there is no timeframe for restoration due to the complex repair process.

Once water is restored, a boil advisory will be in effect.

Red River Parish Schools cancelled school today due to the water issue. Schools will reopen after Easter break on Tuesday, April 22.

RRPJ will give updates as they become available.

In cooperation with the Red River Parish Police Jury and the Red River Sheriff’s Office, the Village of Martin has announced participation in the Parish Clean Up Day Saturday, April 12. 

Those who would like to participate should meet at Martin Village Hall at 7:30am and then disperse to pick up locations in Martin.

Refreshments will be served at the fairgrounds at 12pm. 

Everyone is encouraged to join in whether it is for one hour or the entire morning. Every bit counts and is much appreciated. 

Text Mayor Mary Ann Longino if you plan to participate at 318.581.6016.

Red River High school track and field team recently participated in the Haynesville Invitational last week.
Results are as follows:

1st place Girls 4x400m relay
Malia Allen
Jada Gary
Khylee Winn
Isis Anderson

2nd place girls 4x200m Relay
Adrina Jackson
Khylee Winn
Jada Gary
Aniyah Jones

2nd place Girls 4x100m Relay
Adrina Jackson
Isis Anderson
Galeah Williams
Ahmauriyeh Demease

2nd place Girls high jump
Khylee Winn

3rd place Girls long jump
Ahmauriyeh Demease

3rd place Boys 4x400m Relay
Logan Mims
Kameron Martin
Emmanuel Scott
Cameron Hobley

3rd place Boys 200m Dash
Cameron Hobley

1st place Boys 800m run
Logan Mims

1st place Boys 1600m run
Logan Mims

3rd place Boys 400m dash
Justin Taylor

3rd place Boys shot put
Cole Pierce

2nd place Boys Javelin
B’Nodrick Winn

Stress affects our mental, physical, and emotional health in many ways. It can stem from everyday challenges, work pressure, family or relationship issues, financial concerns, or major life changes like moving, divorce, or loss. While stress is unavoidable at times, how we manage it can influence its impact on our well-being.

Healthy Ways to Manage Stress:

• Avoid substances: While drugs and alcohol might seem like temporary solutions, they can create more problems and increase stress in the long run.
• Seek support: Reach out to a partner, friend, family member, counselor, or doctor. Sharing your concerns with someone who listens can significantly ease the burden.
• Connect socially: After stressful situations, resist the urge to isolate. Spend time with loved ones and plan enjoyable activities to help take your mind off the stress.
• Practice self-care:
  • Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet
  • Exercise regularly to release tension
  • Ensure you get enough sleep
  • Take breaks when feeling overwhelmed—treat yourself to a massage or relaxation time

Discover how simple breathing techniques can help you stress less and feel your best. Stress is an inevitable part of life, but learning to manage it can transform your well-being. Incorporating deep breathing exercises into your daily routine can help lower your heart rate, improve focus, and boost resilience.

5 simple steps for deeper breathing:

1. Relax your body: Find somewhere comfortable to sit or lie down.
2. Inhale slowly: Close your eyes and inhale through your nose, feeling your belly expand.
3. Pause: Hold your breath for a few seconds at the top of the inhale.
4. Exhale slowly: Release your breath through your mouth, feeling your body relax.
5. Refocus: If your mind wanders, gently return your focus to your breath.

Take small steps toward better mental health.

Courtesy of April Live Better Office of Group Benefits

The LSU AgCenter Hill Farm Research Station will host a Beef and Forage Field Day on Thursday, April 24, from 8:30 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. at the Hill Farm Research Station located at 11959 Hwy. 9 in Homer, LA.

Topics to be discussed at this annual event include high versus low input cattle management, the Hill Farm’s winter forage program, bermudagrass planting, weed control in pastures and hayfields, an update on the cattle market, and fly control options. In addition to a great lineup of speakers, there will be a tradeshow featuring a large variety of equipment, products, and services of interest to the cattle producer.

This Beef and Forage Field Day is a free event with lunch being provided. Please R.S.V.P. with Kathy at the Hill Farm Research Station by April 20. The number at the station is 318-927-2578. For more information on the Beef and Forage Field Day, or other LSU AgCenter beef cattle programming, please contact your local LSU AgCenter Extension Office. If you should need special accommodations to attend this field day, please contact Kathy at 318-927-2578.

Submitted by:
Joshua L. Salley
Assistant Extension Agent (Livestock, Forages)
DeSoto & Red River Parishes
Parish Chair DeSoto Parish
10117 Hwy 171
Grand Cane, LA 71032
318-872-0533 Office
318-751-7548 Cell
jsalley@agcenter.lsu.edu

The other day I counted the words that I have created, these were either spoken words, or words like this article. In the 43 years of ministry, I have produced 15,000,000 words! You knew that preachers talked too much, now you have proof. That number includes, articles, 10 years of writing Sunday School materials, sermons, weddings, funerals, and the ever present “come speak to our group” events. I handle lots of words! The majority of those words had something to do with Jesus!

The Gospel of John (21:25) states that if everything Jesus did were written down, “I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written,” That is certainly a statement of hyperbole, right? Jesus lived 33 years on this earth. We have an extensive record of what he did during his three-year public ministry. Sounds like the gospel writer was exaggerating for effect, right?

Most scholars believe that Jesus was crucified between 27-33 A.D. There is no way of determining the exact date, but we know his life came to an end on the cross. We are also preparing to celebrate Easter. The good news that the tomb is empty because; He is risen!

Since he is risen from the dead, and now intercedes for us with the Father, since the Holy Spirit dwells in each one of us, Jesus is still “doing things” in our world and in the lives of individuals. The books would never catch up with what Jesus is doing, because He is ahead of the books.

Right now, as you read, He is working in your life. Now as you read, He offers you love and grace. In this moment, He whispers to your soul, “Follow me.” Jesus is walking the life pathway with all his children, through the Spirit. The books will never catch up with the powerful presence of Jesus in the life of the church and in the individual lives of believers.

The words of your life story are not complete, because Jesus, the Word made flesh is still working in you and through you.

Jesus keeps working in me and I share those words through writing and speaking. His Word is not finished in my life, yours either.

That is a good word!

Red River Parish is home to many men and women who have served this country in the American Armed Forces. Therefore, whether you served in the US or overseas, during combat or peace time, Coushatta Veterans Service Organizations are hosting a Veteran’s Appreciation Day on Saturday May 17^th.  This is a free event to say “Thank you for your service” to all veterans of America’s armed services.

This event will be held in McLemore Hall of First Methodist Church on Front Street.  The date is Saturday May 17th from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm.

There will be a light lunch served, and all veterans are invited to dine at no charge.  Other guests will be asked to donate $10 to cover costs.  Information about services available to veterans will be provided by various organizations that serve vets in Red River Parish.  Topping off the day will be drawings for $100 in door prizes.  There is no cost and you do not have to be present to win.

The Veteran’s Appreciation event is sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars Red River Memorial Post and Auxiliary 7287.  In addition to the VFW, information tables will be manned by the Disable American Veterans, Congressman Mike Johnson’s office, the Red River Council on Aging, the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, Christus Coushatta Health Care Center, and other local organizations that serve veterans.

Armed service veterans are invited to Veterans Appreciation Day at McLemore Hall of First Methodist Church on Front Street in Coushatta.  The hours are 11:00 am until 1:00 pm on Saturday May 17^th.  Reservations are not required.

For more information, please call VFW Post 7287 at 318-932-6557.

State officials unveiled a new transparency website that shows financial information for Louisiana public and charter schools.

ACT 370 was authored by State Senator Rick Edmonds during the 2023 Regular Legislative Session. It  increases financial transparency in Louisiana K-12 public and charter school systems.

The law requires school governing authorities to provide specific financial information to the Louisiana Department of Treasury which will be housed on School Transparency Project Portal, located on the Louisiana Department of Treasury website. The site will allow citizens to compare school budgets in traditional public schools and public charter schools.

A link to the legislation can be found here.

Act 370 requires school systems to report financial information to the Louisiana Department of Treasury including detailed expenditure data about: purchase of goods and services for instruction, instructional support, legal services, audit services, general administration costs, construction, maintenance, transportation, information technology, professional services, technical services, land acquisition, supplies, and other costs.

School Systems are also required to report information to the Louisiana Department of Treasury on all contracts, including the identity of the vendor and purpose associated with each contract. Contract reporting will include award, award notices, fixed-price contracts, cost, cost-plus-a fixed-fee, or incentive type; contracts providing for the issuance of job or task orders; memoranda of understanding; cooperative endeavor agreements; and personal, professional, consulting, and social service contracts.

The Bridge Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center  announced the launch of The Bridge Adult Day Center, a new pilot program designed to provide much-needed respite for caregivers and engaging social opportunities for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

The Bridge Adult Day Center will operate at the Highland Center located at 520 Olive Street every Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., offering a safe, supportive environment where trained staff and volunteers welcome participants for a day of carefully planned activities aimed at promoting cognitive stimulation and social interaction. Each session is designed to be both meaningful and enjoyable, fostering a sense of purpose and engagement among participants.

The Bridge Adult Day Center is the first dementia-centered adult day center in NWLA, addressing a significant gap in our area. “This program is a vital step in supporting both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers,” said Laura Gauthier, Assistant Executive Director of The Bridge Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center. “Caring for a person with dementia can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Our goal is to provide caregivers with essential time to rest and recharge, while ensuring their person enjoys a safe and enriching experience.”

The benefits of respite extend to both caregivers and individuals with dementia. Studies show that structured day programs can help reduce behavioral symptoms, enhance mood, and promote a higher quality of life for individuals with dementia. Meanwhile, caregivers gain a much-needed break from their responsibilities, reducing stress and preventing burnout, which ultimately helps sustain their ability to provide care over the long term. To ensure a high standard of care and appropriate placement, all participants and their caregivers must complete an application and interview process to determine eligibility.

Participation in The Bridge Adult Day Center is currently offered at no cost, thanks to a grant from the Alzheimer’s Association Center for Dementia Respite Innovation (CDRI). For more information about The Bridge Adult Day Center or to apply for the program, please contact The Bridge Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center at 318-656-4800 or visit http://www.alzbridge.org.

About The Bridge Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center:
The Bridge Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education, resources, and support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, as well as their caregivers. Through programs like The Bridge Adult Day Center, the organization continues its mission of enhancing the quality of life for those affected by dementia in our community.

We have all heard the roar of criticism of President Trump’s tariffs imposed on April 2nd. Let me begin by saying that Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs didn’t start a trade war; Instead, they are the response to a 50-year trade war against the U.S.

The sweeping executive action was announced in a statement titled “President Trump Declares National Emergency to Increase our Competitive Edge, Protect our Sovereignty, and Strengthen our National and Economic Security.” The statement continues that in “Pursuing Reciprocity to Rebuild the Economy and Restore National and Economic Security” Trump declared that “foreign trade and economic practices have created a national emergency” and, as a result, he was “imposing responsive tariffs to strengthen the international economic position of the United States and protect American workers.”

Trump lays down both the premise of, and justification for, his actions: “Large and persistent annual U.S. goods trade deficits have led to the hollowing out of our manufacturing base; resulted in a lack of incentive to increase advanced domestic manufacturing capacity; undermined critical supply chains; and rendered our defense-industrial base dependent on foreign adversaries.”

The statement then highlights the disturbing truth that “in 2024, our trade deficit in goods exceeded $1.2 trillion—an unsustainable crisis ignored by prior leadership.” The entire Trump effort is summarized with a final declaration that ““Made in America’ is not just a tagline—it’s an economic and national security priority of this Administration. The President’s reciprocal trade agenda means better-paying American jobs making beautiful American-made cars, appliances, and other goods.’”

The release contains other examples of the economic abuse America has suffered due to grossly unfair trade imbalances and then makes the point that such abuse will end now, stating “access to the American market is a privilege, not a right.”

And why wouldn’t this be the position of the United States?

We are the indispensable nation. We are the country blessed with the strongest economy and currency—the ‘Almighty dollar’—in the world. Why would we allow ourselves to suffer such patently unfair trade disparities, particularly with respect to NATO countries in the defense of whom the American taxpayer has spent trillions of dollars?? And, knowing Trump’s personality as we do, much of this may simply be the setting up of negotiations, with America in the most advantageous position possible.

The roar in the national media about the “ill effects” of the tariffs is richly hypocritical, as if Americans have already forgotten the inflation and cost of living under which they acutely suffered during the just-ended Biden Administration. Also, recall that in the first Trump Administration he was criticized that his “tariffs would be inflationary” but we enjoyed 1.5% inflation, the fastest growing economy in decades and the beginning (before Covid) of a manufacturing resurgence in America.

Millions of Americans believe we have “offshored” too much of American manufacturing—making us dependent on hostile nations for our critical needs. For example, if China controls our pharmaceutical needs or the sophisticated computer chips we need to drive our American economy, what are we going to do if we are ever at war with China?

Even short of war, why would we allow Japanese or European automobiles, for example, into our country for a comparatively small tariff when those nations demand exorbitant tariffs (to say nothing of non-tariff practices like currency manipulation) for American vehicles to be sold in those countries? That’s what galls Trump, which is truly what makes the reciprocal nature of these tariffs strike many Americans as only fair.

It’s the same for oil and gas, as well as food—agriculture. Knowing as we do that food and energy security are national security, why would we ever depend upon other nations—often our adversaries—for these critical needs? Especially when we have as much energy reserves in the U.S. as there are anywhere in the world!

Perhaps there will be some economic pain associated with these tariffs, but there is no doubt in my mind that the end President Trump seeks will strengthen America’s economic and security position.

As Kevin McCullough of Townhall summarizes the issue of Trump’s Liberation Day, “…thanks to Trump, the tide is turning.

He may be the only president since Reagan who’s had the courage to stare down the world and say, ‘You will not take advantage of America anymore.’ And for that, every American — every farmer, every factory worker, every small business owner — should be standing and cheering.”

Royal Alexander

The Riverdale Sophomore class will be waiting tables for tips on April 10 from 5-8pm. These tips will go towards their class fundraising account. You do not have to dine in to leave a tip you can also tip at the pick up window. Cash tips are preferred.

Are you ready to elevate your backyard poultry game? NW Region Red River Research Station will host a Homesteader Series: Backyard Poultry & Egg Production workshop Saturday, April 12 from 9am until 1:30pm. During the comprehensive workshop, you’ll learn about nutrition and feeding, egg production, predator and flock security and selling meat and eggs from backyard flocks. RSVP to Donna Hayes at 318.408.0971 or email dhaynes@agcenter.edu

Deliverance Temple will celebrate the 46th Anniversary of Pastor Jimmie and First Lady Thelma Mitchell Sunday, April 13 at 2pm. Guest speaker will be Dr. Richard Logan, Sr. of Elizabeth Full Gospel Baptist Church.

The Village of Hall Summit will host a Community Yard Sale Saturday, May 24 beginning at 8am at the Hall Summit Community Center & Park. $10 per spot. Sale anything and everything. No electricity or water provided. Payments can be made at Town Hall.

Riverdale Academy recently announced successful renewal of its accreditation through Mid-South Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) and Cognia.

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A parish-wide clean up day is slated for Saturday, April 12 from 9am until 12pm.

Roll up your sleeves and join in to clean up our parish–pick up litter, clear debris, and make our area shine!

Meet at the Police Jury Parish Barn at 8:30am to get your assignment. 

Refreshments will be provided.

Invite your family, friends and neighbors to help make a difference together.

For more information contact Police Jury President, Tray Murray 318.471.6969 or Mayor Ashanti Cole 318.214.1958.

Matt Vines
PINEVILLE – One more time.

Red River coach Dadrian Harris got to coach seniors Jomello McDonald and Jayden Wells one more time Saturday in a Fastbreak ENT All-Star Game hosted at Pineville High.

McDonald and Wells were selected to play in one of three All-Star games put together by the entertainment company.

It’s the culmination of storied basketball careers for McDonald and Wells, who led the Bulldogs to two straight Top 28s including a 2024 state championship game.

Red River earned a No. 2 seed in the Division III Non-Select playoffs and advanced to the semifinals this season, finishing with a 26-6 record.

“Jayden and Jomello, along with a fantastic group of juniors, have been playing together since they were in the second and third grades,” Harris said. “Their chemistry is unparalleled, and they all comprehended their respective roles which played a crucial role in rebuilding this program.”

McDonald and Wells were honorably mentioned on the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Class 2A All-State team.

It’s the second recognition for McDonald and first for Wells.

While notable, Red River’s deep playoff runs haven’t netted a Bulldog on the First or Second Team, which honors a combined 10 players from each classification.

Red River relies on its balance and depth, which means individual players don’t rack up gaudy statistics in their quest for team success.

McDonald averaged just north of 10 points per game with eight rebounds and three steals.

Wells added 10 points, five assists and two steals per game.

“I believe both Jayden and Jomello should have been selected for either the first or second team,” Harris said. “They both possess exceptional skills and have made notable contributions, but due to the balanced nature of our system, their statistics may not appear as impressive as other because we prioritize wins over individual stats.”

Both players are weighing opportunities to play college sports, Wells in basketball and McDonald in football.

The Red River Parish School Board will meet on Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. The agenda and minutes from the last meeting are included here.  

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. However, the risks, symptoms, and even the progression of the disease can be different between men and women. Understanding these differences is key to recognizing heart problems early.

Recognizing the warning signs early can help prevent serious complications. Here are some important symptoms to watch for:

1. Chest pain – Often felt as pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest.
2. Shortness of breath – Difficulty breathing or feeling winded without exertion.
3. Pain in the upper torso, neck, or jaw – Unexplained discomfort in these areas can indicate heart issues.
4. Changes in your extremities – Symptoms like pain, swelling, tingling, numbness, coldness, or weakness in your arms or legs may signal circulation problems.
5. Extreme fatigue – Feeling unusually tired even with normal activity could point to heart trouble.
6. Irregular heartbeat – A faster or slower-than-usual heartbeat can be a warning sign.
7. Dizziness or fainting – Lightheadedness or fainting could indicate heart or circulation issues.

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait to get help. While some heart attacks are sudden and intense, most start slowly with mild discomfort. Pay attention to your body, and if something feels off, call 911. Early action can be lifesaving.

Source: OGB February Live Better Louisiana Newsletter

The Louisiana Tech Research Institute recently partnered with Bossier Parish Community College to host the 2025 Louisiana Region 1 Science and Engineering Fair, bringing together some of the brightest young minds in Northwest Louisiana for a weekend of innovation, creativity, and scientific discovery.

From March 6–8, students from Bossier, Caddo, DeSoto, Natchitoches, Red River, and Webster parishes showcased research in biological sciences, chemistry, engineering, and computer science. The event celebrated the ingenuity of elementary, middle, and high school students, providing them with a platform to solve real-world problems and gain recognition for their achievements.

With multiple projects on display, students tackled pressing issues such as environmental sustainability, medical advancements, robotics, and artificial intelligence. They presented their findings to a panel of STEM professionals, educators, and industry experts, who evaluated projects based on creativity, methodology, and presentation skills.

BPCC Science Fair Director Natalie Hendrix praised the students’ efforts and dedication to STEM research.

“Their dedication to research and discovery is truly inspiring,” Hendrix said. “We hope this experience encourages them to continue exploring the world of STEM.”

As a center for education, research, and innovation, LTRI was a fitting venue for the fair, offering students a dynamic environment to present their work and engage with mentors. This emphasis on mentorship and learning reinforced LTRI’s commitment to developing future scientists and engineers.

“Hosting the Science and Engineering Fair at LTRI aligns perfectly with our mission to support education, research, and workforce development,” Dr. Jerome DuBose, deputy director of LTRI, said. “We were thrilled to welcome these talented students and provide a space for them to showcase their ideas and innovations.”

Building on the invaluable experience gained from industry professionals, top-performing high school participants earned the opportunity to compete at the Louisiana State Science Fair in Baton Rouge. Those who excel at the state level may qualify for the International Science and Engineering Fair in Columbus, Ohio, where they will compete against the best young scientists worldwide.

Parents, teachers, and local leaders came together to encourage the next generation of innovators, reinforcing the importance of STEM education in Louisiana. As students move forward to future competitions and continue their scientific exploration, the impact of this year’s fair will be felt for years to come, inspiring young minds to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.

For more details on the Louisiana State Science Fair and future opportunities, visit societyforscience.org.

Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Spring has officially begun, bringing warmer weather — and allergy season. CHRISTUS Health is providing tips for relieving pesky allergy symptoms as flowers bloom and trees release pollen.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 25% of Americans, or about 80 million people, suffer from seasonal allergies, which range from mild discomfort to severe reactions.

“Allergy symptoms can persist year-round depending on where you live,” said Dr. Susan Kemp, a family medicine physician with CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic. “The key is to take a proactive approach to managing symptoms before they worsen.”

Kemp recommends starting a nasal steroid spray like Flonase or Nasonex, or an antihistamine such as Claritin, Allegra or Zyrtec early in allergy season.

“One of the biggest challenges we see is distinguishing between allergy symptoms and a cold, as
they share congestion, sneezing, itchy throat and a runny nose,” Kemp said. “The key difference
is a cold usually includes a fever and resolves in a few days, whereas allergy symptoms can persist much longer.”

For milder symptoms, Kemp said over-the-counter treatments such as nasal corticosteroids, saline rinses, local honey and decongestants can provide relief but if you take medication for chronic conditions, check with your provider to make sure what you use is safe. 

“Anyone experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms that significantly impact daily activities should consult a health care provider,” Kemp said. “Allergy season can feel never ending, but our goal is to help patients find the relief they need.”