August 8, 1975, saw the arrival of Alison Ann Norman. Today, Alison Strong turns 50. She was surprised at work by a birthday lunch on Thursday. If you see Mrs. Strong today, make sure to remind her of this momentous milestone.
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Friday, August 8
Generally sunny despite a few afternoon clouds. High 98F. Winds light and variable.
Mostly clear sky overnight. Low 74F. Winds light and variable.
Saturday, August 9
Sunshine. HOT. High 96F. Winds light and variable.
Mostly clear sky overnight. Low 72F. Winds light and variable.
Sunday, August 10
Mainly sunny. High around 85F. Winds light and variable.
Some clouds in the early evening that will give way to generally clear conditions overnight. Low 73F. Winds light and variable.
Red River Parish SRO’s Irvin Raphiel and Donta Latchie served as adult volunteers for Red River’s summer camp week at Camp Grant Walker.
Each morning, they assisted in the Outdoor Adventures track, building campfires, fishing, archery, etc. Each afternoon they worked at the pond helping campers with canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. Their evenings were spent with campers at the sports field, playing football and volleyball.
They stayed in the cabins and helped with cafeteria duty each day as well.
Red River 4-H would like to thank Red River Parish Sheriff’s Department for allowing these officers to attend.
Camp Grant Walker requires four adults in each cabin, so that there are plenty of adults to monitor them while they are at camp. They were a tremendous help at camp and the students loved having them.
Shared by Jacque Fontenot
STATEWIDE NEWS RELEASE
As students across Louisiana prepare to head back to school, Louisiana State Police reminds all motorists to prioritize safety in and around school zones, near school buses, and while transporting children. Vigilance and adherence to traffic laws are essential to protect the lives of our children and fellow drivers.
School Zone Safety:
With the return of school traffic, drivers are urged to stay alert and follow all posted signs and signals—especially during morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups when pedestrian and vehicle activity increases. Louisiana law grants school crossing guards the authority to direct traffic. Drivers must obey their instructions and reduce speed in marked school zones.
Motorists are reminded that Louisiana’s new hands-free law prohibits any driver—regardless of age—from using a handheld cell phone to call, text, or access social media while driving. This law applies to all public roadways across Louisiana, not just school zones. To review the full details of Louisiana’s updated cell phone law, visit: LACellLaw2025. Staying focused and minimizing distractions are vital steps to prevent crashes and keep students safe.
School Bus Safety:
All drivers must stop for school buses when red lights are flashing, and the stop arm is extended—regardless of the direction of travel. The law requires traffic to stop at least 30 feet away from the bus and remain stopped until the lights are off and the bus moves again.
If you’re unsure whether to stop, follow this general rule: always stop unless you are traveling on a four-lane roadway with a physical barrier, raised median, or continuous turn lane separating you from the bus. Children can be unpredictable, so slow down and stay alert any time you’re near a school bus. Refer to the attached graphic for clear guidance on when drivers are required to stop for a school bus—and when they are not.
Child Passenger Safety:
Louisiana law requires children under 13 to ride in the back seat whenever possible. For younger children:
· Rear-facing car seats should be used until at least age two or until the child exceeds the height or weight limit of the seat.
· Forward-facing seats with internal harnesses should be used as long as possible, typically up to 65 pounds.
If caregivers are unsure about how to properly install or use a car seat, certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians at local Louisiana State Police Troop offices are available to help—free of charge. For more information on child seat laws and fitting station locations, visit the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission.
As a community, we all share responsibility for protecting our children as they travel to school and other activities. Let’s recommit to driving safely, staying alert, and making smart decisions behind the wheel. The safety of Louisiana’s future depends on it.
Contact Information:
Sgt. Scott Moreau
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (318) 769-9872
scott.moreau@la.gov
On July 5, 1934, 26-year-old Violet Hilton and her 29-year-old fiancé Maurice Lambert, a widower, went to the Municipal License Bureau in Manhattan, New York to get a marriage license. Violet’s sister, Daisy, went along too. The sisters were inseparable. Violet and Daisy were musicians and performers. In 1911, Violet and Daisy began performing a sister act in Great Britain. Their popularity grew and they performed throughout Europe. In 1916, they started performing in the United States. They sang in perfect harmony, tap-danced in synchronization, and played clarinets and saxophones in harmony. People flocked to see them. In 1926, Violet and Daisy were featured in an act called the “Dancemedians” with George Byrne and Les Hope. In one notable part of the act, the sisters danced the fox-trot with George Byrne and Les Hope. Les, Leslie Hope, changed his name shortly thereafter to Bob Hope. In the 1930s, Maurice was a musician, orchestra leader, and the musical director for Violet and Daisy’s vaudeville act.
As the trio waited for the clerk to return with the marriage license, crowds gathered around Violet and Daisy requesting autographs, giving marital advice, and showering them with well wishes. They learned that Daisy was engaged to be married as well. It was a joyous occasion, but what was supposed to be the happiest day for a bride-to-be was suddenly spoiled. After careful consideration, Chief Clerk Julius Brosen of the marriage license bureau denied their request for a marriage license because “the very idea is quite immoral and indecent.” Undeterred but irritated, Maurice said they would go elsewhere to get a marriage license. Following their denial in New York, Maurice, Violet, and Daisy visited the City Hall in Newark, New Jersey, but the result was the same. City Clerk Harry Reichenstein denied their request because of “moral reasons.” The trio “departed in a huff.” Violet’s attorney, Irvin Levy, filed a motion with the New York Supreme Court to compel the city to issue Violet and Maurice a marriage license. After a week-long legal battle, Supreme Court Justice Kenneth P. O’Brien denied the motion. The Court decided that Violet and Maurice “must not wed,” at least not in the state of New York.
Violet was determined to marry Maurice. “I’ve made up my mind to get married,” Violet said, “and that’s all there is to it.” In all, Violet and Maurice tried to get married in 21 states but were denied each time on moral grounds. Eventually, Violet and Maurice had no choice but to give up their dream of being husband and wife.
The moral reason for which those clerks refused Violet and Maurice’s request for a marriage license was because Daisy was always with Violet. It was well known that Violet and Daisy worked together, traveled together, ate every meal together, slept in the same bed, and bathed together.
After the states of New York and New Jersey initially denied Violet and Maurice’s request for a marriage license, scientists were brought in but were unable to agree whether Violet and Daisy were individuals or the same person. You see, Violet and Daisy Hilton really were inseparable. They were joined at the hip. They were conjoined twins.
Sources:
1. Evening Courier (Camden, New Jersey), February 22, 1927, p.16.
2. Progress-Bulletin (Pomona, California), July 5, 1934, p.1.
3. The Binghamton Press (Binghampton, New York), July 6, 1934, p.20.
4. The Buffalo News, July 6, 1934, p.36.
5. Daily News (New York, New York), July 6, 1934, p.3.
6. Brooklyn Eagle, July 9, 1934, p.13.
7. Daily News (New York, New York), July 17, 1934, p.13.
Do you have a family Bible at home or in your family that records births, deaths, and marriages? If you do, you have a genealogical source that can be used in research.
Coushatta Chute Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution is working to catalog family bibles from the Red River Parish and the surrounding area. All you need to do is email or text pictures of the front of the Bible and the first page of records, along with your contact information. A DAR member will get in touch with you to help with the rest. The project collects, transcribes, and archives these records to make them accessible for genealogical research.
In many instances, the family bible may be the only record of birth for women and African Americans of the 1700s and 1800s. These bibles may also include baptism dates, dates of significant events, and moves from state to state within the family, serving as markers for researchers to use. Records from the 1900s are just as vital. These records often include details such as births, marriages, and deaths, which may not be available elsewhere.
Red River Parish and the surrounding areas are rich in history, and the possibility of a family or church bible that contains genealogical information is common in our area.
Contact the Coushatta Chute Chapter DAR at coushattachutedar@gmail.com or text 318-272-1468
If you’ve been hearing the pop-pop-pop of plastic balls on courts lately, you’re not alone—and it’s not tennis. It’s pickleball, and it’s taking over neighborhoods, rec centers, and backyards across the country. On August 8, we celebrate National Pickleball Day, a lighthearted holiday dedicated to the wildly popular paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.
What Is Pickleball, Anyway?
Played with a wiffle-style ball and solid paddles on a smaller court, pickleball is easy to learn, fun for all ages, and surprisingly competitive. It’s equally popular among retirees looking for low-impact activity and younger players seeking fast-paced action.
And despite the name, no actual pickles are involved—though that hasn’t stopped fans from wearing pickle-themed shirts or punny socks that read “You’ve been dill-feated!”
A Quick Hit of History
Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by a group of dads looking to entertain their bored kids. Today, it’s the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with over 4.8 million players nationwide, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association.
How to Celebrate National Pickleball Day:
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, today is a great day to dink, serve, and volley your way into the pickleball craze. Just don’t get caught in the kitchen—unless you’re making actual pickles.
Over my many years of fishing lakes all across this country, I’ve had a few bad encounters with dock owners, but never had I been told by a public official that I couldn’t fish in a particular area. Today, I’ll tell you about an incident that I experienced on a public body of water in Texas.
With every passing day, anglers’ rights to fish and navigate certain bodies of water is being threatened by different activist groups like PETA (People for Ethical Treat of Animals).
For some reason, people who live on a public lake and own a dock think they have the right to tell an angler that he can’t fish around their dock. But legally, anglers can fish there because the dock itself is on a public body of water. You can own the dock, but you don’t own the water underneath it.
This is a concept so many homeowners who live on a public body of water seem to have trouble comprehending. Look, if you don’t want people to fish your dock, then don’t build your dream home on the lake! I too live on a lake and never have I told any angler that they can’t fish my dock, even though I have plenty of brush (that I put there) that holds fish.
But on a hot summer day on Lake Palestine a few weeks ago, I was fishing a two-day tournament. On Day 1 I weighed in 15.80 pounds of bass and was sitting in fourth place overall.
Let’s not forget that on Day 1 I lost a fish that was well over seven pounds off one specific boat dock. When the fish came off, I thought to myself that I might be able to catch that fish again on Day 2 since I did not get a good hookset on that fish.
As Day 2 rolled around, it was apparent that the fish just were not biting the way they were on Day 1. So, with three fish in the live well at 10 that morning, I decided to go back to the dock where I had lost the seven-pounder the day before.
Running across the lake and into the pocket where this certain dock was located, I shut down and jumped up on the front deck to drop the trolling motor into the water. It was at this time that two Texas Game Wardens approached me. At first, I thought they were pulling up to do a routine boat and license check.
But no, that was not the case, as they proceeded to tell me that the pocket I wanted to fish was off limits for the day. At first, I asked if they were kidding, but they begrudgingly told me that due to a party on the main lake point, the entire pocket (1/4 mile long) was off limits for the day and that I would not be allowed to fish there.
Standing on the front deck of my boat and in shock that I was having to leave because of a party, this did not sit well with me. I expressed my displeasure with the wardens’ request. They fully understood as they reiterated that this pocket was off limits.
I could tell from the very beginning of my encounter with the wardens that they did not want to tell me this. But once again, it became evident that whoever was hosting the party on the point had a lot of financial influence. If there’s one thing that still holds true today, it is if you have the money, you can rule the world — or shut down a lake!
After returning home, I did a little research and found out that in order to eliminate any section of a public lake, you must have a permit signed by the local lake authority before it’s legal. Knowing this earlier, I could have requested to see the permit.
But being the good guy that I am, I just cooperated and moved on to a different part of the lake, even though six of my best boat docks were in this pocket that I was not allowed to fish on Day 2.
Did this cost me a win? Probably not, but it did possibly cost me a few places in the final standings as I dropped from 4th to 9th while being unable to fish my best six docks.
These confrontations are becoming more common place on lakes and waterways all across the country. It’s up to us as anglers to stand up for our rights to fish. So, the next time you’re confronted or being told a part of the lake is off limits, make sure to ask and see the permit that was granted by the local lake authority. Or maybe asked to see the cash that was given in order to block off a part of the lake!
‘Til next time, good luck, good fishing and enjoy your time on the water, while you still can!
Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com.
JOURNAL SERVICES
After years of dormancy, oil and natural gas exploration is experiencing a significant resurgence in Natchitoches Parish, driven by renewed interest in the prolific Haynesville Shale formation and rising demand for clean-burning natural gas.
Haynesville Shale Drives the Revival
The comeback is largely attributed to the expansion of Haynesville Shale activity into northern Natchitoches Parish. The Haynesville formation, which extends across northwest Louisiana and northeast Texas, contains an estimated 300 to 500 trillion cubic feet of recoverable natural gas reserves, making it one of the most significant shale gas resources in North America.
Natchitoches Parish currently ranks #7 in Louisiana for barrel of oil equivalent (BOE) production as of October 2024, with the parish’s oil and gas infrastructure supporting 934 wells drilled between January 1977 and October 2024. Recent data shows the parish produced 524 barrels of oil and 126,600 thousand cubic feet of natural gas in June 2024 alone.
Economic Impact and Local Activity
The resurgence has brought noticeable economic activity to the region, with leasing activity expanding beyond traditional hotspots to new areas across the parish. Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court David Stamey said that there is no surprise that leasing activity has continued in the Northern portion of the parish, especially along the borders with Desoto, Red River and Sabine Parishes, but the new areas of leasing is what had him excited. “For the first time in many years, we have had leases filed in areas around Robeline. They extend towards Marthaville, the Shady Grove area and even along Hwy 6.”
Stamey noted the increased activity at his office: “Our office has been visited by many abstractors checking titles in person for conveyance information prior to 1920. Those same companies do a lot of their title checks on line for information we have available back to 1920. We welcome those abstractors to the office because we know that the results of their work can bring great news to our citizens and to the economy.”
A quick review of the Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court records shows that over 200 leases have been filed in the Parish records since January 1, 2025. (The NPJ pulled a list of leases from the Public Records in Natchitoches Parish online service – Attached)
The renewed activity comes at a time when natural gas is again in high demand, and the Haynesville has at least 300 trillion cubic feet in reserve. Industry experts note that after spending much of the past decade overshadowed by liquids-rich shale basins, the Haynesville formation is experiencing a dramatic comeback.
Strategic Positioning
Natchitoches Parish’s position within the broader Haynesville play provides significant advantages for energy development. Some of the world’s largest petrochemical complexes and LNG export facilities are located on the Texas and Louisiana gulf coast near the Haynesville Shale play, creating ready markets for the region’s natural gas production.
The timing of this resurgence aligns with global energy trends. Global LNG trade will rise 21% by 2025 from 2019, reaching 585 billion cubic meters, creating sustained demand for the type of clean-burning natural gas that Natchitoches Parish can provide.
Looking Forward
The boundaries of what we typically think of as the Haynesville Shale in Northeast Texas and Northwest Louisiana are expanding, suggesting that Natchitoches Parish may see even more exploration activity in the coming years. Recent industry reports indicate that Haynesville Shale has 349 wells drilled in 2023, demonstrating continued robust investment in the formation.
The return of oil and gas exploration represents a significant economic opportunity for Natchitoches Parish, bringing jobs, tax revenue, and renewed investment to the region. As energy companies continue to recognize the value of the parish’s mineral resources and its strategic location within the Haynesville formation, residents can expect continued growth in exploration and production activities.
Local officials and industry observers remain optimistic about the long-term prospects for energy development in the parish, particularly as global demand for reliable, clean-burning natural gas continues to grow and technological advances make previously uneconomical resources viable for development.
Important Notice: Oil and gas leasing involves highly sophisticated legal and financial considerations. Property owners considering lease agreements are strongly advised to consult with an experienced oil and gas attorney before signing any documents. These complex contracts can have long-lasting implications for mineral rights, royalty payments, and property use. Professional legal guidance is essential to ensure fair terms and protect landowner interests throughout the leasing process.
The next local Farmer’s Market & Maker’s Fair is August 16 from 7-11am Front Street in Coushatta.
The August Genealogy Meeting will be held at the Red River Parish Library Wednesday, August 20 at 10am. Learn how to use research tools to complete your family tree. Dr. Virginia Webb and library staff will offer tips and assistance. For more information, call 318-932-5614.
Mall St Vincent is hosting a Back-to-School Turn-Up this Saturday from 11am until 7pm. There will be a DJ, vendors, and hourly giveaways.
The Perseid Meteor Shower peaks August 12 – 13, 2025. There will be up to 100 meteors per hour streaking through the night. Let your eyes adjust for 20-30 minutes in the dark then look northeast after midnight.
Join Duck Commander as they honor the life and legacy of Phil Robertson, the original Duck Commander, on Sunday, August 31 from 10am to 7:30pm. The celebration will include a full day of worship, live music, food trucks, special guests, and more. The event is free and open to the public. The schedule includes: 10:00 AM -12:00 PM: Church Service; 12:00 PM: Festival Begins; 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Catfish Charlie’s Food Truck; 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Duck Call Contest; 3:00 PM: Live Music by Dasher the Band; 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Bash Booth Photos; 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Classic Duck Commander Films; 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Concert.
Disney and the NFL reach a billion dollar deal. The ESPN-NFL deal will require regulatory approval, which could take nine months to a year. If it goes into effect next season, it would be part of a big year for ESPN as the 2026-27 year ends with the network broadcasting its first Super Bowl. The game will also be on ABC, which Disney also owns.
Umpire Jen Pawol will make MLB history this weekend when she becomes the first woman to umpire in a regular season game.
(UPDATE 8/4/2025): DOTD advises motorists that beginning on Monday, August 11, 2025, a portion of LA 515 in Red River Parish will close to allow for the replacement of a cross drain pipe located under the roadway.
This closure is located approximately 2.5 miles south of the intersection with LA 514, and is anticipated to be in place 2-3 weeks, weather permitting. (see included map)
This pipe replacement is part of an ongoing construction project to repair a six mile section of LA 515, described in the initial announcement below.
Original notification – February 2025:
RED RIVER PARISH – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces a project to repair a section of LA 515 north of Coushatta in Red River Parish.
Work is scheduled to begin on Monday, February 24, 2025, weather permitting.
The $2.6 million project stretches on LA 515 from US 71 to LA 514, providing six miles of roadway improvements.
The project includes full-depth patching, milling to remove old asphalt, and a new asphalt overlay on LA 515 through the New Hope and Crichton communities. Fell-depth patching addresses damaged portions of roadway all the way to the base, strengthening the road and extending its overall service life over time.
The full-depth patching will then be followed by milling to remove the old asphalt, and then the application of the new layers of asphalt.
Motorists should expect intermittent lane closures in order to allow the contractor to safely and efficiently perform the necessary construction work.
The entire project is anticipated to be complete in Fall 2025, with progress dependent on weather conditions and other factors that can impact construction timelines.
Safety reminder:
DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment. Remember to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.
Additional information:
Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.
The Natchitoches Parish Drug Enforcement Unit recently released on social media that it conducted numerous operations during July, resulting in multiple arrests related to drug offenses, firearm violations, and other criminal activities.
One person from Red River Parish was arrested during the operations in Natchitoches Parish.
Deann Cascio of the 100 block of Bud Messick Rd., Coushatta, LA was charged with Possession of CDS II (Methamphetamine) and Drug Paraphernalia.
Matt Vines
Riverdale pair fish at high school nationals
Riverdale Academy fishing pair Colton Caskey and Brayden Pearah closed out their high school fishing careers this past weekend at the 2025 Strike King Bassmaster High School National Championships.
Caskey/Pearah finished 135th in a field that included 250 boats on Clarks Hill Lake in Evans, Ga.
The Rebels logged a two-day total of 11 pounds, 12 ounces on six fish, catching 6-5 on the first day and 5-7 on the second day.
While Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee squads placed the most boats in the top of the standings, Louisiana fared well in the field.
Ten Louisiana boats logged fish in the event, with Riverdale placing fifth among Louisiana boats.
Pickett County’s Rex Reagan and Max Moody took home the title with a three-day total of 36-11.
Fall sports getting underway
Riverdale softball has stepped on the field already to face competition, and Riverdale and Red River football fall practices are underway.
It’s the start high school sports season as Red River Parish athletes don their jerseys to compete.
Riverdale football will be the first to step on the field with its season opener Aug. 22 at home against rival Claiborne Academy.
Red River football starts its season Sept. 5 at Catholic-Pointe Coupee.
Each school is growing its cross country programs as well, and Red River’s volleyball program is looking to take the next step.
Settle in to what’s going to be fun athletics year.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announced a scheduled lane closure on Interstate 49 northbound at the Hollywood/Pierremont Road interchange (Exit 203) this Thursday, August 7.
The right (outside) lane will be closed between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to allow crews to perform necessary maintenance work in the area.
DOTD urges motorists to drive with caution, be on the lookout for work crews and equipment, and to expect possible delays during the closure period.
All work is weather permitting, and updates will be provided if conditions change.
For the latest road conditions, visit http://www.511la.org or use the 511LA app.
In a landmark move aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing taxpayer-funded purchases of sugary items, Louisiana has become one of the first states in the nation to receive federal approval to ban the purchase of certain junk foods using SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture granted Louisiana’s waiver request on Monday, allowing the state to prohibit SNAP recipients from buying soda, candy, and energy drinks with their EBT cards starting in 2026.
Governor Jeff Landry, who signed an executive order in May directing the state to seek this waiver, called the decision “a win for Louisiana families and for fiscal responsibility.”
“This is about making sure government assistance helps people buy real food — not sugar water and empty calories,” said Landry. “SNAP should be a bridge to better nutrition, not a subsidy for soda companies.”
The newly approved policy aligns Louisiana with five other states — Florida, Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and West Virginia — whose waiver requests were approved as part of a broader USDA pilot initiative. The goal is to study whether limiting junk food access through SNAP improves public health outcomes, particularly in low-income communities disproportionately affected by diet-related diseases.
Under the new guidelines, SNAP recipients will no longer be able to use their benefits to purchase:
Carbonated soft drinks
Candy bars, gummies, and similar sugar candies
Energy drinks containing high caffeine and sugar content
SNAP will continue to cover fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, grains, and other staple foods.
The ban is scheduled to go into effect statewide in early 2026, giving stores, SNAP users, and state agencies time to prepare. The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services, which administers the SNAP program, plans to release detailed guidance later this year.
Until then, Louisiana’s decision will likely remain a hot topic in national conversations about nutrition, poverty, and the government’s role in shaping public health.
Wednesday, August 6
Sunshine with some clouds. High 96F. Winds light and variable.
Mostly clear sky overnight. Low near 72F. Winds light and variable.
Thursday, August 7
Sunshine with some clouds. High 97F. Winds light and variable.
Mostly clear sky overnight. Low 72F. Winds light and variable.
One of America’s most enduring federal programs is marking a major milestone: Social Security turns 90 on August 14, 2025. Signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1935 during the Great Depression, the Social Security Act was a revolutionary step toward economic security for the elderly, disabled, and vulnerable families.
Today, Social Security supports over 71 million Americans, providing monthly benefits to retirees, survivors of deceased workers, people with disabilities, and more.
At the time of its creation, more than half of the elderly population in the U.S. lived in poverty. The Social Security Act was part of FDR’s New Deal, aiming to offer financial support to citizens in old age and lay the foundation for future social safety nets.
Since issuing its first payment of $22.54 in 1940, the program has grown and evolved to cover more Americans in more situations, including workers with disabilities and families who lose a breadwinner.
Today, the system is funded through payroll taxes collected under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). Workers and employers each contribute 6.2% of wages to the program. As of 2025, the average monthly retirement benefit is just over $1,900, with higher payouts based on earnings history.
In Louisiana alone, over 950,000 residents rely on Social Security benefits, including retirees, widows, and people with disabilities. For many in rural areas—like those in Red River Parish—these monthly checks are a critical part of staying independent, paying bills, and affording basic necessities.
Despite its legacy, Social Security faces long-term funding challenges. Lawmakers and experts continue to debate how to ensure the program’s solvency past the 2030s, when its trust funds are projected to be depleted without legislative action.
Still, public support remains strong. A recent national survey found that nearly 90% of Americans—across political lines—believe Social Security should be preserved and strengthened.
In honor of its 90th anniversary, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is hosting public education events, digital outreach campaigns, and encouraging Americans to review their Social Security statements and plan for retirement at www.ssa.gov.
As the nation reflects on nine decades of impact, one thing remains clear: Social Security isn’t just a program—it’s a promise.
Northwestern State University will induct seven new members into its Alumni Hall of Distinction, the Long Purple Line as part of the annual Homecoming celebration Oct. 3-4. The inductees are Richard Keith Bergeron of New Roads, the late Robert Crew, Jacque Crew of Shreveport, Dr. Marcus Jones of Winnfield, Angela Lasyone and Lee Posey of Natchitoches and Christine “Chris” Weaver of Lafayette.
The inductees will be honored at a luncheon on Friday, Oct. 3 at noon at the Natchitoches Events Center. Tickets are available at northwesternstatealumni.com/long-purple-line-2025.
Northwestern has honored 159 alumni with induction into the Long Purple Line.
Bergeron was regional chairman for Capital One Bank and its predecessor, Hibernia National Bank and market president for Shreveport/Bossier City. He was responsible for all retail banking operations in north Louisiana and east Texas. He also managed the bank’s contributions, sponsorships and marketing efforts. He coordinated the merger of six acquired banks in various markets in Louisiana and Texas. Under his leadership, the bank became the largest in the market.
His community involvement included chairing the Biomedical Research Foundation, the Independence Bowl Foundation, the United Way Campaign for Northwest Louisiana and the American Heart Association Heart Walk. Bergeron was on the board of the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, The Committee of 100 Shreveport, the North Louisiana Economic Development Partnership, the American Heart Association Shreveport and Alliance for Education.
A 1974 graduate of Northwestern, he served on the NSU Foundation Board and was board president. Bergeron was on the Dean’s Executive Advisory Board for the College of Business and was named to the College of Business Hall of Distinction in 2000. He established the Keith and Julie Bergeron Endowed Scholarship and was responsible for establishing the Capital One Endowed Professorship in the School of Business. Bergeron also assisted Northwestern by hosting numerous new student recruiting events.
Robert and Jacque Crew were friends from the beginning, childhood sweethearts and dated through high school, but their life and courtship developed through their mutual love for Northwestern. After high school graduation, they attended Northwestern State College with each earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Wanting the full college experience, they each pursued an active social life on campus. Jacque Crew joined Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority and was very involved in her chapter. Robert Crew was a member of the NSC ROTC battalion, marched with the ROTC Black Knights Drill Squad and was a champion badminton player.
For 30 years, the couple pursued their education dreams. Robert Crew worked for the Department of Education in the Teacher Certification Bureau. Robert Crew served as interim assistant state superintendent of education several times. Jacque Crew spent those years teaching kindergarten and gifted classes.
Robert Crew was appointed executive assistant to the president at NSU in 1997. Jacque Crew taught at the NSU Lab school and St. Mary’s Catholic School. When she was asked to serve as Sigma Sigma Sigma’s chapter advisor, she very willingly accepted the honor knowing the time and dedication it would demand. Over 20-plus years, Jacque Crew attended the Sunday night chapter meetings, all recruitment events, socials, formals and national conventions in addition to being available when one of the members needed her help. For her service and in tribute of her love for her sorority, Jacque Crew received the Golden Violet Award from Tri Sigma for 50 years of service. The living room in the Tri Sigma sorority house was named after Jacque Crew for her tireless effort to recognize the dream of a new home for her sorority girls. She was also honored by NSU’s chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity as an Honorary Rose in 2018. Robert Crew was initiated into the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity as an alumnus initiate.
Robert Crew was instrumental in making many changes on campus to improve the beauty of Northwestern’s historic campus and enhance safety for students, faculty, staff and campus visitors. Robert Crew was a widely acclaimed photographer for more than 40 years.
To recognize his passion and achievement in the field of photography, the Robert G. Crew Endowed Scholarship is awarded each semester. Upon his retirement, the School of Creative and Performing Arts named the photography studio in his honor.
Robert and Jacque Crew have been honored with the Nth Degree Award from NSU and have been inducted into NSU’s Hall of Distinguished Educators.
Jones is an accomplished higher education executive with over two decades of leadership, teaching and legal experience. He currently serves as chief operating officer and senior vice president of Legal Affairs for the University of Louisiana System, where he oversees strategic, operational, legal and compliance functions across nine universities. His career reflects a deep commitment to advancing higher education through collaborative leadership, international engagement and operational excellence.
From 2021 to 2024, Jones served as president of Northwestern State University, where he was the institution’s 20th president. Prior to that, he held several key leadership roles at NSU, including executive vice president for University and Business Affairs and vice president for University Affairs. A longtime faculty member, he also taught courses in business law, international business and economics, and played a central role in expanding the university’s global outreach and partnerships.
Jones holds a Juris Doctor from Southern University Law Center, a Master of Science in International Business and Trade from Grambling State University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from NSU. He also studied international business and economics at the University of Plymouth in England through a student exchange program and is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.
Lasyone earned a degree in business administration at NSU in 1986 and was a member of Phi Mu Fraternity. She has spent her career working in her family’s business that began as a meat market and evolved to become a landmark restaurant in north Louisiana and a catering business recognized throughout Louisiana and the U.S. Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant has been in business for more than 50 years. Their world-famous meat pies have drawn attention to Natchitoches through magazine and book articles, national and international newspapers features, radio and television highlights, appearing in Southern Living, The New Yorker, Gourmet Magazine, Calvin Trillin’s book “Third Helpings,” The Houston Chronicle, Chicago Tribune, The New York Times, newspapers from France, Italy and Spain, CBS’ On the Road with Charles Kuralt and ABC’s Good Morning America.
Angela Lasyone and her sister Tina have been dedicated supporters of NSU over the years and established two scholarships in memory of their parents, Jo Ann and James Lasyone, awarded to students seeking careers in travel/tourism and culinary arts.
She was one of the charter inductees into the Hall of Distinguished Hospitalitarians established by NSU’s Northwestern’s Hospitality Management and Tourism program.
Lasyone has continued her involvement with Phi Mu by serving as president of Kappa Iota Chapter of Phi Mu House Incorporated and as a member of the Alumni Board.
Posey is a successful Natchitoches businessman who devoted nearly 30 years to public service. He was a two-term mayor of Natchitoches from 2012 to 2020 and a member of the Natchitoches City Council from 1988-2008.
As mayor, Posey worked to improve the quality of life in Natchitoches. He completed the Downtown Riverbank Project which included amphitheater seating and a pavilion and stage area to allow the community to enjoy Cane River. During his administration, PARC Natchitoches was constructed for a variety of local and state sports events. PARC also provides a walking trail, fishing and children’s playground facilities. He also initiated and organized the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot Restoration.
A 1974 graduate of Northwestern, Posey was president of NSU Booster Club and served as NSU Foundation president for 10 years. He was chair of NSU Centennial Celebration in 1984.
The Posey family has a long history at Northwestern as four generations of the family have attended the university. Along with his family, Lee Posey helped set up the Allen and Mary Lee Posey Scholarship to assist Northwestern students pursuing mental, behavioral or allied health studies.
Weaver was selected as the Louisiana Teacher of the Year in 1981 while teaching at Woodlawn High School in Shreveport. After 13 years in the classroom, Weaver was named principal at the Caddo Career Center. She was later principal at Woodlawn High.
She was assistant superintendent of Vocational Education and director of Vocational Education at the Louisiana Department of Education and served as executive director of the Workforce Commission and the Workforce Development Liaison/School-to-Work Liaison in the Louisiana Governor’s Office.
Weaver has been an active supporter of Northwestern since graduating, attending university activities and events and assisting the university in professional activities.
Weaver was an inductee into the NSU College of Education and Human Development’s Hall of Distinguished Educators and received the Nth Degree in honor of her service to others. She was an active member of the NSU School of Education Advisory Committee for more than 20 years. Weaver established the Pat Weaver Fund for Educational Enhancement in 2022 in honor of her late husband to enhance learning, research, travel and/or professional development to meet the needs of the School of Education
She earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing education and a master’s in education at NSU. Weaver did additional graduate work at Northwestern and the University of North Texas.
The copier at Trinity Methodist Church is named “Grace.” She is a busy girl. Printing church newsletters, bulletins, posters, letters, reports, and the miscellaneous Sunday school handout. She prints in color. She collates. She staples. She prints various sizes of paper. She also lies!
There is a moment in every office worker’s life when they stare at a blinking printer screen that boldly declares, “Paper Jam in Tray 2”—even though Tray 2 is empty, pristine, and untouched. You open the compartment, check every roller, and still the printer insists, “Paper Jam.” You sigh, mutter something unholy under your breath and wonder if church office machines can be possessed.
Welcome to the modern workplace, where technology lies, coffee spills, and emails are sent to the wrong “John.” But what if these everyday mishaps were just annoyances? What if they are subtle reminders of a deeper truth—of God’s mercy and forgiveness in the midst of our human error?
Let’s start with the class: knocking over your coffee just minutes before a big meeting. The puddle spreads across your desk like a slow-motion disaster movie. Important papers are soaked, your keyboard is sticky, and your nerves are frayed. You feel foolish, clumsy, and frustrated.
But then a coworker walks by, grabs paper towels and helps you clean up. No judgment. Just grace.
This is mercy in motion. Just as we make messes in life—through poor decisions, careless words, or selfish actions—God doesn’t stand over us wagging a finger. He kneels beside us, offering help, restoration, and a fresh start. The Psalmist reminded us, “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.” Even when we spill, he stays.
Our printer, Grace, lied to the Membership Secretary. She was printing a report for me, and it is a very large report. The printer sent her a message that the report could not be printed. She hit the button twice and the same response appeared on her computer screen. She walked down the hall to look Grace in the face and there on the printer tray were both reports.
I guess Grace just wanted some personal attention.
Jesus’ message was consistent, the expectation for His followers is righteousness. We are to live rightly related to God and rightly related to fellow human beings. In this task, we all fail. In essence, we lie!
The remedy for our sins, past, present and future is the grace of Jesus Christ. It is a costly grace paid by Jesus’ death on the cross. It is a free grace given to those who seek that grace through faith.
The words are still true.
“Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see.”
No lie!
By Caroline Boda Jul 30, 2025
(The Center Square) – The U.S. economy grew at a rate of 3% between April and June, marking a shift after it shrank during the first quarter for the first time in three years.
Gross Domestic Product came in higher than expected after Dow Jones estimated the jump to be closer to 2.3% for the second quarter. The economy’s surge was powered by a drop in imports resulting from President Donald Trump’s new trade policies.
GDP is the broadest measure of an economy’s health, and its mid-year upswing is a good sign for U.S. markets.
After Trump announced plans for widespread tariffs earlier in the year, businesses front-loaded imports to get ahead of extra costs. This led the economy to shrink by 0.5% in the first three months of 2025.
Now that trade policies have begun to settle, imports dipped in Q2, a shift that ultimately led the economy to grow by a healthy 3%.
Despite these sunnier prospects, the combined 1.2% annual rate over the first six months of 2025 came in lower than last year’s 2.5%. This lower rate was driven by businesses and consumers acting cautiously in response to ongoing trade wars and back-and-forth tariff policies.
The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) of Natchitoches is pleased to announce its annual fundraising gala, to be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the Natchitoches Events Center. This special evening will feature Benjamin Clapper, Executive Director of Louisiana Right to Life, as the keynote speaker.
Clapper has been a leading voice for pro-life values across the state and brings a deep understanding of the policies and partnerships that shape maternal health in Louisiana. His message will highlight the critical need for continued support of pregnancy resource centers like WRC and the positive impact such support has on women, children, and families.
This year’s gala also celebrates WRC’s recent designation as an official Maternal Wellness Center by the Louisiana Department of Health, recognizing its commitment to providing comprehensive care including pregnancy testing, prenatal and parenting education, emotional and spiritual support, and material assistance.
Supporters now have an even greater incentive to give: the new Louisiana Maternal Wellness Center Tax Credit offers a 50% state income tax credit for eligible donations made to certified Maternal Wellness Centers like WRC. This means that a gift of $1,000 could result in a $500 reduction in state income taxes, allowing donors to make a significant impact while receiving meaningful tax benefits.
“This is more than just a gala—it’s a night of celebration, purpose, and powerful partnership,” said K. Nicole Woods, Executive Director of WRC. “We are on a mission to be a mission, and now, thanks to this new tax credit, our community can partner with us in a deeper, more sustainable way.”
Proceeds from the gala will directly support WRC’s life-affirming services and educational programming for women and families throughout Natchitoches and the surrounding region.
To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or learn more about the Louisiana Maternal Wellness Center Tax Credit, visit www.wrcnatchitoches.org or call (318) 357-8888.
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