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Hall Summit is hosting a Community Yard Sale Sat Oct 4 from 8am – 2pm at the Hall Summit Community Center.

Ashland Baptist Church is hosting Fall Festival Sat Oct 11 at 7pm. Activities include a hay ride, bounce houses, face painting and cake walk. Hot dogs will be also be available. 

First Baptist Church Coushatta is celebrating their 175th Anniversary Sun Oct 19 starting at 11am. There will be a meal served following the service.

Boo Buckets are back at McDonalds. 

The Ruston Buc-ee’s dirt work began this week. It should open in late 2026 or early 2027.

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Red River Parish Schools have been implementing the Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) program for years, fostering meaningful relationships between students and staff to create a positive school culture.  The district recently trained a group of educators and leaders to become CKH Process Champions, ensuring the program continues to grow and thrive for years to come.

Capturing Kids’ Hearts, developed by The Flippen Group, is a nationally recognized program focused on helping schools create safe, supportive environments where students feel valued, respected, and connected. By emphasizing trust and relationship-building, CKH strengthens not only academic success but also students’ social-emotional well-being.

“CKH has been part of who we are for many years,” shared Director Mike Beck. “The Process Champion training gives us the tools to keep the momentum going and make sure these practices are part of our schools for the long term.”

The newly trained Process Champions will serve as coaches, mentors, and leaders, providing ongoing support to teachers and staff across the district. This added layer of support helps prevent the program from becoming “just another training” and instead makes it an integral part of daily school life.

“Our goal is to make sure the strategies and heart of CKH don’t just stay in a binder or on a poster,”  Process Champion Tanner Lee explained. “We want to see them in action every day, in every classroom.”

Years of success with CKH have shown that when students feel connected and supported, they are more likely to attend school regularly, engage in learning, and demonstrate positive behaviors. The Process Champion initiative builds on this foundation by giving schools the structure and leadership needed to maintain those positive outcomes.

As the district looks ahead, the CKH Process Champion Team will play a key role in helping Red River Parish Schools sustain a culture of caring and connection, ensuring that students continue to thrive both academically and emotionally.

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The Red River Parish Journal wants to thank American Bank for once again being the title sponsor for this year’s Football Pick’em contest. Tyler Insurance Agency is the anchor sponsorship for a second year in a row.  These two businesses love football and love to see you win.   

We also want to thank BOM, Red River Council on Aging, David Beard Builders, 4B Garage, Jimmy Keel-Greg Tilley’s, Pathway Tire, and Tray Murray-State Farm for their Pick’em Partnerships within the contest. If you would like to be a Pick’em Partner, email redriverparishjournal@gmail.com for more details. Only a limited number of slots remain.

Another week. Another winner.

John Perkins was this week’s winner of the Football Pick’em Contest and he walked away with $100!

Are you ready for some football?!?

Bigger question. Are you ready to win $100.00 in cash each week?

The Red River Parish Journal and American Bank are proud to bring you the 2025 Football Pick’em Contest anchored by Tyler Insurance.

START PICKING NOW – This week’s contests –>   2025 Pick Em Form

Picks close Thursday at 4pm.

Anyone is eligible to participate for FREE, and each week’s winner will go home with a $100.00 cash prize.  Each week, the winner will be the participant with the best record out of 10 selected college and high school football games (ties will be broken by tiebreaker consisting of guessing the total points scored in one of our weekly contests).

The American Bank and Tyler Insurance Agency Football Pick’em Contest will be conducted over 10 regular-season weeks of the season, starting with Week 1 games (August 28-31) and running through the end of November.

There is no entry fee, just like there is no cost to subscribe to the Red River Parish Journal.

All contest decisions by Red River Parish Journal (RRPJ) management are final. Weekly winners will be notified on Monday and will be requested to take a photo that will run that week in the RRPJ.

Every participant will receive a FREE subscription to the RRPJ if you’re not already signed up for the easily navigated, convenient 6:55 a.m. Monday-Wednesday-Friday e-mail. Enjoy it all, for FREE, and enter each week’s contest. You could be our first winner!

Week 1: Charles Crockett
Week 2: Michael Birdsong
Week 3: Lori Lee
Week 4: John Perkins

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The administration at Red River High School is committed to providing the safest and most secure sporting facilities possible for students, athletes, and fans. As the Bulldogs prepare to kick off their first home football game of the season, school officials are asking for the support and cooperation of parents, fans, friends, and family members in maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

To ensure a positive game day experience, certain items will not be allowed inside the stadium. These rules are in place to protect players, spectators, and staff while keeping the focus on what matters most—cheering on our Bulldogs.

Prohibited items include non-clear bags, glass containers, knives, pepper spray, firearms, drones, vapes, hard coolers, large strollers. There are no exceptions to these rules.

The Red River Bulldogs are excited to welcome the community back to their home field Friday night and look forward to a season filled with teamwork, school spirit, and success.

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First Methodist Church of Coushatta is seeking a dedicated disciple of Jesus to serve as the part-time youth pastor.   

According to Pastor Trevor Blaire, “Our youth program is budding, and we are searching for someone to oversee it and tend to its growth. It is our prayer that jr. high and high school students in Coushatta and Red River Parish will find in our community a place where they are introduced to Jesus, ministered to in the Holy Spirit, and brought closer to God through discipleship and prayer”.

Anyone interested in applying for the position should send an email to office@fmccoushatta.org

Riverdale Academy recently held its annual BETA Club Induction Ceremony to celebrate the addition of new members.

The National Beta Club recognizes students who demonstrate strong academic achievement, excellent character, and outstanding leadership and service qualities. At Riverdale, eligibility requires students to maintain a 3.5 GPA and consistently show worthy character and a positive attitude.

Membership in the club goes beyond academics. Students actively participate in service projects, take on leadership opportunities, and have the chance to attend state and national Beta Club conventions. Riverdale BETA members are encouraged to give back to their community, with each student required to complete a minimum of 10 service hours per year. Collectively, the club has set an ambitious goal of 1,900 total service hours for the school year.

This year’s induction ceremony marked the start of an exciting journey for the newest members, who were welcomed and celebrated by fellow students, faculty, and families.

The BETA Club is guided by dedicated sponsors: Mrs. Amanda Cason, Senior BETA Sponsor, and Mrs. Brittney Mancil, Junior BETA Sponsor. Together, they provide support and encouragement as students grow academically and personally while making a positive impact on their school and community.

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(UPDATE 9/23/2025): DOTD advises motorists that repairs to the LA 788 bridge over Grand Bayou in Red River Parish are complete and the roadway has been reopened.

We appreciate your patience while this work was underway.

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Wednesday, September 23

Rain showers in the morning with scattered thunderstorms arriving in the afternoon. Storms may contain strong gusty winds. High 84F. Winds W at 5 to 10mph. Chance of rain 40%.

Mostly cloudy early, then clearing overnight. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. 

Thursday, September 23

A few clouds during the day.  High 85F. Winds light and variable. 

Mostly clear skies overnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. 

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Choosing a college can feel overwhelming for students and families. With so many questions about programs, admissions, campus life, and cost, the search often begins online. But if a university website feels dated or confusing, that first impression can create more stress than clarity.

Northwestern State University in Natchitoches has recognized this challenge and responded with a bold solution: a redesigned website that puts students and families first.

Unveiled this month, the new nsula.edu is built to guide prospective students, parents, and the community through a clear, engaging digital experience.

“Our enhanced site is dynamic, mobile-friendly, and designed with users in mind,” said Cole Gentry, Chief Marketing Officer. “Whether you’re a high school student exploring majors, a parent reviewing financial aid, or a faculty member sharing research, the website is your first step into NSU.”

The redesign highlights admissions, academic programs, and campus life while showing the long-term value of an NSU degree.

“The website is more than just a facelift,” Gentry explained. “It’s a living, adaptable platform that will continue to grow alongside our students, faculty, alumni, and the broader Natchitoches community.”

Features include:
• Simple admissions navigation
• Interactive views of academic offerings
• Mobile-first design for families on the go
• Accessibility to ensure every visitor has a seamless experience

For President James T. Genovese, the project signals NSU’s forward momentum.

“This new digital front door reflects who we are today and the bright future we’re building,” Genovese said. “It shows students across Louisiana and beyond that NSU is a place where they can belong, grow, and succeed.”

While prospective students are the primary audience, the refreshed website also serves alumni, current students, faculty, staff, and the local community. From campus events to academic updates, nsula.edu is designed to be a central hub for all who are part of the NSU family.

“Our goal is for everyone who visits the site to feel connected,” said Gentry. “For prospective students especially, we want them to see themselves at NSU from the very first click.”

As students and families look ahead to the next chapter of education, a strong first step can make all the difference. Northwestern State University’s new website is designed to open doors, answer questions, and showcase the opportunities waiting in Natchitoches.

Discover the redesigned experience today at http://www.nsula.edu.

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Natchitoches, LA — September 23, 2025 — The Women’s Resource Center of Natchitoches is
thrilled to announce the launch of four new Rooted & Rising classes, made possible through the
generous support of sponsors, donors, and guests at this year’s “Be the Light” Gala.
The Gala, held on September 18, brought together community members, churches, businesses,
and friends of WRC for an evening of inspiration and purpose. Together, attendees raised
essential funds that will directly expand WRC’s educational programs to empower and equip
parents in our region.
Thanks to this outpouring of generosity, WRC is launching four new classes in 2026 designed to
help families thrive during pregnancy and early parenthood:
        1.  Safe Sleep & Bathing – equipping parents with knowledge to keep their babies safe and
              healthy.
         2. Baby Basics – offering practical guidance on caring for infants in the early months.
         3. Nutrition (0–36 months) – teaching healthy habits for strong growth and development.
         4. Mom Support – providing a nurturing community for mothers to share, learn, and grow
         together.

“These classes represent the heart of our mission,” said Nicole Woods, Executive Director of
WRC. “We believe every woman and family deserves access to education, support, and
resources that affirm life and strengthen homes. The success of this year’s Gala means more
parents will have the tools they need to thrive.”

The Rooted &Rising program is one of the many ways WRC continues its mission to provide
help, hope, and life-affirming alternatives to women and families across our area. By combining
practical skills with faith-based encouragement, these new classes will impact hundreds of
families in the coming year.

For more information about WRC programs or to learn how you can get involved, visit
http://www.wrcnatchitoches.org or call (318) 357-8888.

About the Women’s Resource Center of Natchitoches

Since 1989, the Women’s Resource Center of Natchitoches has served thousands of women and
families through free pregnancy testing, counseling, parenting education, material assistance, and
referrals. WRC exists to empower women to make life-affirming choices and to strengthen
families through compassionate care, education, and support.

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September 24 is Bluebird of Happiness Day, a celebration of one of nature’s most cheerful and symbolic birds. For centuries, the bluebird has been seen as a sign of hope, joy, and renewal. Its bright feathers and cheerful song have inspired poems, songs, and sayings, reminding people that happiness can be found in life’s simple moments.

The idea of the “bluebird of happiness” is rooted in folklore from around the world. In many cultures, the bluebird is believed to bring good luck or signal brighter days ahead. Artists, writers, and musicians have long embraced the bluebird as a symbol of optimism, using it to capture the feeling of joy that comes when troubles give way to hope.

Bluebird of Happiness Day is a chance to reflect on the things that bring us joy and to appreciate the beauty in everyday life. Some people mark the day by spending time outdoors, birdwatching, or simply pausing to notice the natural world around them. Others take it as a reminder to spread kindness and positivity, becoming a “bluebird” for someone else who may need encouragement.

As September 24 approaches, consider how you can celebrate your own “bluebird of happiness.” Whether it’s sharing time with loved ones, enjoying a favorite hobby, or simply appreciating a crisp autumn morning, this day invites us to embrace joy in all its forms. After all, happiness, like the song of a bluebird, is often best when shared.

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Every Sunday morning, as families shuffle into the sanctuary with coffee in one hand and a diaper bag in the other, a sacred ritual begins—not the liturgy, not the sermon, but the parental chant of the two great commandments for children in church: “Be quiet” and “Don’t run.” These are not found in Exodus or Deuteronomy, but they are etched into the hearts of every parent who has ever tried to keep a toddler from turning the aisle into a NASCAR track.

Let’s be honest: church with kids is a spiritual workout. You arrive with the best intentions—maybe even dressed in matching outfits—and within five minutes, someone is loudly asking why Jesus doesn’t have a pet dinosaur. Another is crawling under pews like a Navy SEAL. And you, dear parent, are whisper-yelling, “BE QUIET!” with the intensity of a Broadway performer who’s just missed their cue.

The second commandment, “Don’t run,” is equally vital. It’s not just about safety—it’s about dignity. Nothing tests your humility like chasing your child down the center aisle during the offertory. There’s something about polished church floors that turns every child into Usain Bolt. And while the pastor is preaching about grace, your child is demonstrating velocity.

But here’s the thing: these little rule-breakers are exactly who Jesus was talking about when He said, “Let the little children come to me.” He didn’t say, “Let the well-behaved, silent, non-running children come to me.” He welcomed the squirmy, the curious, the loud, and the sticky-fingered. He knew that children bring life, energy, and a kind of holy chaos that reminds us all what it means to be fully present.

So to the parents who feel like they’re herding cats in the sanctuary—take heart. You are not failing. You are forming. Every whispered correction, every goldfish cracker offered as communion, every coloring book passed down the pew is a seed of faith. You are teaching your children that church is a place they belong, even before they understand why.

And to the church—thank you. Thank you for being a place where children are not just tolerated but treasured. Thank you for the volunteers who smile through crayon murals on hymnals and the ushers who dodge sprinting toddlers with grace. Thank you for understanding that a little noise is a sign of life, not a disruption.

Yes, we’ll keep whispering the commandments: “Be quiet” and “Don’t run.” But we’ll also keep showing up, sticky fingers and all, because we believe that faith is caught more than taught. And sometimes, catching it looks like a child singing off-key, dropping Cheerios in the offering plate, or asking loudly if God likes dinosaurs.

So let the children come. Let them come with their noise, their energy, their questions, and their joy. Let them come running—yes, even down the aisle—because in their chaos, we find a glimpse of heaven. And in their laughter, we hear the echo of a Savior who said, “Do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

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When it comes to the cost of homeowner’s insurance, fire ratings can have a sizable impact.

Whenever a homeowner obtains a homeowner’s policy through an insurance agent, they will find out the fire rating for the area in which they live, and this directly impacts the cost of their insurance. The rating is based on a scale of one to 10, with higher numbers meaning worse ratings. A rating of 10 could mean hundreds, even thousands, more in insurance costs for a homeowner.

Every part of Louisiana has a fire rating based on the safety of the area. Red River Parish Fire Protection District currently has a rating of 5. This rating has improved by more than 2 points in the past few years. This rating is a direct result of having a well-trained and reliable staff of firefighters.

Fire protection grading is promulgated by the Property Insurance Association of Louisiana (PIAL) and approved by the Commissioner of Insurance. All fire districts are graded on a scale of 1 to 10 by PIAL, with 1 representing the best level of protection and 10 representing no fire protection.

The PIAL considers several factors when determining a district’s grading, including the number of dispatchers on duty, the number of firefighters and fire trucks, and the availability of water

“Red River Parish Fire Protection District has been working hard each and every day to maintain and upgrade our rating”, said Chief Woodfin. “We are working for everyone in the parish.

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The mums Red River Parish 4-H sold will be delivered next week. There are still some available multiple colors (red, bronze, yellow, white, purple and tri-color). Call the office to order (932-4342).

Hall Summit High School Alumni Reunion will be held at Grand Bayou Resort Event Center, 5286 Hwy. 784, Coushatta on Oct 4 at 10am. Everyone is asked to bring a covered dish.

The FTC is suing Ticketmaster, alleging it works with brokers who use fake accounts to buy up millions of dollars worth of tickets, then sell them at huge markups.

Centenary Baseball will host kid’s camp Oct 6 & 7 for ages 5-14. Visit http://www.centenarybaseballcamps.com to sign up.

Witch Way to Main Street and the Natchitoches Farmer’s Market are teaming up for a joint event on the Natchitoches Riverbank Sat October 25. Activities include a morning of live entertainment, a children’s costume contest, a pet costume contest, various vendors, plenty of trick or treating, and so much more.
Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult and will be allowed to trick or treat from 10am-Noon on the Downtown Riverbank.

New Orleans can’t bid for the 2031 Super Bowl because the Caesars Superdome lease isn’t signed–one billion dollars in potential revenue hangs in the balance.

Publishers Clearing House halts lifetime prize checks after bankruptcy.

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Shannon Lynn Estes
March 24, 1975 — September 21, 2025
Funeral services  will be held Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Mansfield.

Sam Johnson
Funeral services will be held Saturday September 27, 2025 at 11am at Springville B.C. in Coushatta.

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Last week, Red River Fire District firefighters took part in training hosted by Fire & Emergency Training Academy (FETA). The training focused on vehicle fire response using FETA’s LPG Jeep prop, giving Red River crews realistic, hands-on experience.

“Continuous training like this keeps our firefighters sharp, safe, and ready to protect our community”, said Chief John Woodfin .

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Our sister, Patti, became home-bound in her late 70s and early 80s after two knee replacements and a hip replacement. Her life had been filled with years of service to both young and old. Even though she lived alone, she was blessed to have help from the Council on Aging.

At a minimal expense, Patti had her meals delivered five days a week. Not just delivered, but the driver always stopped in with a bit of time to check on her and listen to her stories. Extra food supplies were available even during holidays.

A worker from COA also came to clean her living quarters regularly.

As the renewal for funds for the Council comes up for a vote, my sister and I say, “Thank you, Council on Aging, for your service in such a caring manner for our dear sister”.

Sincerely,
Susan Strother Taylor
Norma Strother Lester

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Matt Vines
COUSHATTA – When Red River snatched a 22-7 lead at Oak Grove in the first half of Friday’s game, the Bulldogs probably thought what was possible.

More than just a fast start, Red River had gone on the road and smashed one of the elite Class 2A football programs in the mouth.

Oak Grove (2-1) did wipe out that Red River lead, winning the second half in a big way to score the 42-36 victory and ultimately send the Bulldogs packing with a loss.

“It still stings a little,” said first-year head coach Travis Gary. “But we knew what we were walking into all week, and we executed our plan.

“We just have to make sure we close it out next time.”

Red River’s (1-2) shift to a primary passing offense under Gary has allowed quarterback Malique Smith to spread his wings as both a passer and a runner.

After Cedric Moody’s eight-yard touchdown gave Red River the early edge, Smith tacked on a 12-yard scoring strike to Warren Bowman as the Bulldogs went up 14-0 early.

Oak Grove got its ground game going as Patrick Hill finished off a drive to cut Red River’s lead to 14-7.
But the visitors weren’t backing down, and Smith connected with Elijah Lewis for a 12-yard touchdown to grab a 22-7 edge.

The two teams traded scores to end the half, an Oak Grove rushing touchdown to slice Red River’s lead to one score, which the Bulldogs increased to 30-14 on a Smith 1-yard rushing touchdown.

“Malique is flourishing in our new system,” Gary said. “He’s getting a chance to show off his skillset.

“We executed in the first half and did what we were supposed to do.”

Oak Grove made its stand in the second half, outscoring Red River 28-6 for the win.

The final score erased a Red River 36-34 lead in the fourth quarter, which was Oak Grove’s first and only lead of the night (42-36).

“In the second half, Oak Grove came out and got a score and then a stop – it was a battle from there,” Gary said. “We just never got that final stop that we needed in the second half, and the ball bounced their way.”

Red River’s performance is indicative of the steps the program continues to take under Gary, particularly a marked improvement over the 20-12 win against St. Mary’s this past week.

Oak Grove had beaten Red River 55-8 this past season, part of a 1-4 start.

Red River is 1-2 to start this season with all three games coming on the road.

The Bulldogs play at home for the first time Friday when White Castle comes to town.

“Our main take away is that you can execute and fight with everything you have and still not get the result you’re looking for – and that’s life,” Gary said. “But the win in the situation is when you come up against this situation again, you are experienced and prepared to handle it.”

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Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies recently arrested a Red River Parish man on felony drug charges, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright.

On Monday evening, September 15, 2025, at approximately 7:26 p.m., deputies assigned to the NPSO Patrol Operations Bureau were patrolling in the 5000 block of La. Hwy 480 near Campti when they conducted a traffic stop on a 2000 Honda Civic for a traffic violation.

Deputies identified the driver as 44-year-old David R. Lindsey of Coushatta. While speaking with Lindsey, deputies observed that he appeared nervous. During the encounter, Lindsey admitted there were narcotics inside the vehicle. Deputies obtained consent to search the vehicle, and a back-up unit responded to assist.

The search led to the discovery and seizure of approximately 1 gram of suspected methamphetamine and a glass smoking pipe.

Lindsey was arrested without incident, transported, and booked into the LaSalle Corrections/Natchitoches Detention Center.

He is charged with:
Possession of CDS Schedule II Methamphetamine
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Equipment Violations

Lindsey has since been released on bond pending a court appearance. The seized evidence will be submitted to the crime lab for analysis.

An NPSO Drug Enforcement Agent assisted in the investigation.

Deputy J. Bonner was the arresting deputy, assisted by Deputy A. Middleton.

Source: Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office 

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Matt Vines

EAST POINT – The Riverdale Academy couldn’t stop its slide Friday as Porter’s Chapel Academy snatched a 46-6 win.

Early in the game when the Rebels still had their legs, Riverdale (0-4) battled and stopped PCA in the red zone on their opening possession.

But the Eagles blocked a Riverdale punt for a safety and scored on their next possession for an early lead.
Porter’s Chapel (2-3), who snapped a three-game losing streak, found success on the ground with more than 300 rushing yards.

“The boys played with a lot of heart,” said Riverdale coach Nathan Edie. “We asked some young players to step up after Ashton Almond went down early.”

Trailing by three touchdowns, Riverdale had a chance to slice into that advantage but PCA made a goal line stand.

PCA running back Lakeland Pecanty ripped off a 98-yard touchdown run in response, building a 30-0 lead late in the second quarter.

Pecanty finished with 215 yards and two touchdowns.

“Scoring touchdowns always sparks a team that is trailing, and holding a team from scoring will do the same thing,” Edie said. “We had a lot of injuries and fatigue, and we couldn’t punch that one in.

“Our tackling is still a problem. We get our hands on runners but can’t get them down. We’ve got defensive linemen learning to play linebacker. The ‘want to’ is there, just not the experience.”

Quarterback Tanner Carlisle connected with Jackson Hillman for Riverdale’s lone score.

Riverdale is back home again this week when Tensas Academy visits.

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The Coushatta post of Veterans of Foreign Wars on Saturday morning posted a new American flag on the flagpole on US 71 south of town. VFW Post 7287 maintains the flag and flag pole as a community service.

The flag replaced had become faded and torn due to the weather and was no longer presentable. Present for the replacement ceremony were Post 7287 Commander Barry McCoy and members Lee Rodgers, Michael Braswell, and Guy Breider. Post Quartermaster John Brewer took the photo.

Guests present for the replacement ceremony were VFW District 12 Commander David Fields from Post 5951 in Bossier City and District Inspector Walt Korb of Post 5187 serving Zwolle-Ebarb. Fields and Korb had visited Post 7287’s meeting on Saturday morning.

The retired flag will be properly disposed of. VFW Post 7287 maintains a used flag collection box on the porch of Randy’s Hardware on US 71. Anyone with a US flag that is no longer serviceable may deposit it in the collection box during Randy’s Hardware normal business hours.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7287 serves the needs of all veterans in Red River Parish. Any vet desiring more information or assistance with any veterans benefit such as the VA Hospital may call the post at 318-9312-6557. The post meets at 9:00 am on the third Saturday of every month at the First Methodist Church in Coushatta.

John Brewer, Quartermaster
Post 7287, Coushatta

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