The Melrose Arts and Crafts Show scheduled for this weekend, April 18-19, has been canceled due to the threat of severe weather and high winds, which is a safety concern for vendors, attendees and staff. The show has been rescheduled for Oct. 10–11, 2026. 

All our lives we’ve heard people say, “I was there when …” Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s home run record. I was there when Reggie Jackson hit three home runs in a World Series game. I was there when Dale Earnhardt crashed in turn four and died at the Daytona 500.

Well, there was one event that I can say “I was there when” one particular fishing bait was introduced to the bass fishing world.

It was on Lake Okeechobee in 2006 when the concept of a new bait took bass fishing by storm … the ChatterBait! This was a bait that has become a staple for all bass tournament anglers. It’s a combination of two of the best baits ever made, a jig and a spinnerbait.

It’s a skirted jig with a small blade attached to the head of the bait. It has an unbelievable vibrating action that bass cannot refuse. Over the last 20 years, there have probably been more bass caught on this bait than any other.

I remember the day that I first heard about this new bait. I was fishing an FLW Tour event on Lake Okeechobee in South Florida and the word was out about this new bait that was catching bass like crazy.

Anglers were scrambling to get their hands on just one of these baits! Some guys would pay as much as $100 to get one. At this event, Roland Martin Marina was the only tackle store where you could get one. Every day for three straight days I walked into this store and every time all the pegs were empty.

Finally, with only one day left in the tournament, I asked Mrs. Mary Ann Martin (Roland’s wife) to please put one back for me and I would pick it up after I weighed my fish on the final day.

Turns out pro angler Bryan Thrift, in his first professional bass tournament, won this event and the ChatterBait craze began. For a couple of years, he tried to keep his secret bait under wraps but the folks that make the ChatterBait asked that he please let the cat out of the bag.

It was on stage during that FLW Tournament weigh-in on Lake Okeechobee that Bryan introduced the world to this revolutionary bait. From this event in 2006 through today, there’s probably not a single bass angler on a body of water that does not have some form of the ChatterBait tied on.

The company behind this bait is known as Z-Man and they have not only perfected this bait over the years but have come out with more versions. One thing about the fishing business; it’s a copycat industry, as other companies have tried to emulate this bait, but none have had the impact of the original ChatterBait.

While Z-Man has a patent on this bait protecting their blade design, there are other brands on the market that have had a little success, but no one has been able to capture that same magic that a ChatterBait produces.

While it’s not often that many of us can say “I was there when” a special moment took place, I was actually there when one of the greatest bass fishing lures hit market … the ChatterBait!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com.

Red River 4-her’s had a great Achievement Day 2026. It was held March 26th at Southland Camp in Ringgold, LA. Students visited stations such as a rock wall, zip line, basketball, and Gaga ball.

That week was National Ag Week and we celebrated our year of learning about how Agriculture is a part of our daily lives. Alaina Boyd and Rose Fowler, two teen leaders, who taught students about giving injections to animals using bananas. LSU AgCenter Agent Josh Salley and teen Katelynn Giddings presented Ag careers and Ag opportunities in 4-H, while making butter! Emma Youngblood and Drew Curry helped students with a LEGO Ag contest, where students worked together to build different types of farms. Teen leaders Laynie Morse, Viktor Novosad (our local exchange student), Daniel Griff, Tye Weems, Abbie Jowers, Markendria Winn, and Tayla Weathers for serving as tour guides and spending the day with each group. These teens all worked very hard!

A very special thank you to family members, teachers, and school employees for bringing these students to enjoy Achievement Day!

Shared by Red River Parish 4-H

John P. Thompson changed our world yet most of us have never heard of him. At some point in our lives, each of us has used his inventions. It would be hard to find a home in America which does not contain multiples of John’s inventions. They are so commonplace that they often go unnoticed.

Little is known about John Thompson, but he was born in 1857 in Iowa. After working various jobs including laborer, bank teller, and room furnisher in a couple of different states, he eventually settled in Portland, Oregon. While there, he worked as an auto mechanic. John used a hand tool to tighten fasteners to the cars he worked on, but the tool kept slipping off the fastener. This resulted in skinned knuckles and damage to the cars. Finally, John’s frustration had reached its limit. He decided to create a new tool and fastener that when used together would not slip. No one knows how long John worked on his inventions or how many attempts it took before he created his “cruciform groove” tool and fastener, but in the summer of 1932, John filed for patents for his two inventions. On May 9, 1933, the United States Patent Office granted patent numbers 1,908,080 and 1,908,081 for John’s fastener and tool respectively. For reasons that remain unclear, in the patents John assigned or transferred his rights to his inventions to Henry Frank. The connection between John and Henry has never been proven, but many people believe that Henry purchased or funded John’s patents.

Rather than investing the money to create and sell the tool and fasteners himself, Henry created a company to franchise the products. Companies which produced them paid Henry’s company a hefty royalty. In 1936, Cadillac became the first industrial customer to use John’s inventions for its 1937-year model cars. The new tool and fasteners increased production and lowered costs. Word quickly spread and within a short time the other automobile companies as well as railroad and aviation manufacturers adopted John’s cruciform groove inventions. In September 1940, John died impoverished and largely forgotten, but Henry became wealthy. John’s cruciform groove inventions could have been known as the Thompson screw and Thompson screwdriver, but because he transferred the patents to Henry, we know them by his last name. We have all used Henry Frank…Phillips screws and Phillips screwdrivers.

Sources:

1. Michael J. Allen, “Phillips screw and driver,” Oregon Encyclopedia: A project of the Oregon Historical Society, accessed April 5, 2026, https://www.oregonencyclopedia.org/articles/phillips_screw_and_driver/.

2. “J.P. Thompson Screw, patent number 1,908,080,” United States Patent and Title Office, May 9, 1933, accessed April 5, 2026, https://ppubs.uspto.gov/api/pdf/downloadPdf/1908080?requestToken=eyJzdWIiOiIzODg1YzMwNC1hNmRjLTQwMzMtYWNlYi0xODAxMTlkNzZkNjciLCJ2ZXIiOiJlYWZmMjhlYi1hMmRlLTQ4ZGUtYTQxMy01M2E2NzJjZjZjOTYiLCJleHAiOjB9.

3. “J.P. Thompson Screw Driver, patent number 1,908,081,” United States Patent and Title Office, May 9, 1933, accessed April 5, 2026, https://ppubs.uspto.gov/api/pdf/downloadPdf/1908081?requestToken=eyJzdWIiOiIzODg1YzMwNC1hNmRjLTQwMzMtYWNlYi0xODAxMTlkNzZkNjciLCJ2ZXIiOiJlYWZmMjhlYi1hMmRlLTQ4ZGUtYTQxMy01M2E2NzJjZjZjOTYiLCJleHAiOjB9.

Louisiana students will see updated English language arts standards in the coming years as state education leaders move to place a stronger focus on the building blocks of reading and writing.

The revised K-12 English language arts standards were recently approved by the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education after being recommended by State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. According to state officials, the new standards are designed to strengthen instruction in areas such as the science of reading, grammar, cursive writing, and the use of content-rich texts.

Education leaders say the goal is to sharpen students’ foundational skills so they can become stronger readers, better writers, and more effective communicators. Brumley said the standards reflect a renewed emphasis on core academic practices and respond to feedback from parents and teachers who want more classroom time devoted to essential skills.

One of the biggest changes is an increased focus on the science of reading, including phonics and other foundational skills that help students sound out words and read more independently. The updated standards also place added attention on grammar and usage, with the goal of helping students write and speak more clearly in school and everyday life.

The new standards also continue to include handwriting instruction, including cursive, as part of a broader approach to literacy.

The revised standards will not take effect immediately. They are scheduled to begin in the 2027-28 school year, giving school systems time to prepare. The Louisiana Department of Education has said it will provide guidance, training, and instructional support to help districts transition to the updated expectations.

The review of the standards was part of the state’s regular academic review cycle. Under BESE policy, content standards must be reviewed at least once every seven years. This review process began in 2024 and included public meetings, a public comment period, and an open application process for the review committee.

State officials said the committee that worked on the revised standards included Louisiana teachers, school leaders, higher education representatives, parents, and content specialists, with the aim of making sure the final standards reflected both classroom experience and student needs across the state.

Officials also noted that academic standards and curriculum are not the same thing. Standards outline what students are expected to learn at each grade level, while curriculum refers to how those skills and concepts are taught. In Louisiana, local school systems choose their own curriculum, while the state sets and reviews the academic standards.

Baton Rouge, La. — On April 15, the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will launch a new customer service number designed to make it easier for Louisiana residents to reach the department for assistance.

Residents will be able to call: 877-7LADCFS (877-752-3237) for child support services, child welfare assistance, and other DCFS inquiries. Hours of operation for the line will be 7:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday.

The Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline remains unchanged and continues to operate 24/7 at: 855-4LA-KIDS (855-452-5437).

Suspected abuse or neglect should always be reported to the hotline.

Red River Junior High is hosting Sparkle Ball: Sneakers & Sequins Apr 24 from 6-8:30pm. Admission is $10.

Lawmakers advance bill requiring TOPS repayment for students who lose scholarships. 

LDWF is working to help pass Senate Bill 244 that will create a recreational alligator season.

Louisiana Tech’s Spring game is set for Apr 25 with kickoff at 11am at Joe Aillet Stadium. Admission is free.

Gloria Beth (Huckaby) Ortega
June 1, 1939 – April 10, 2026
Funeral services will be held Friday, April 17, 2026 at 10:30am at Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, TX.

Floyd Hathman Jordan
August 28, 1939 – April 14, 2026
Funeral services will be held Friday, April, 2026 at 1pm at The Pentecostals of Martin Church in Martin.

Mary “Mamie” Latson
December 16, 1935 – April 11, 2026
The celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 1am at New Light Baptist Church in Hall Summit.

Lazarius Maurice Gray
February 19, 2025 – April 9, 2026
Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 12pm at St. Savior B.C. in Coushatta.

Lue Demery
August 31, 1942 – April 12, 2026 
Services are pending

According to a recent video shared by the Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office, Highway 155 is now open from Coushatta to Martin. The reopening is welcome news for local drivers who have been waiting for access to return along that stretch of roadway.

The Louisiana Aviation Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 class of inductees, which will include Coushatta native Kevin Coleman.

Coleman will be honored alongside fellow inductees Philip Thomas, Steve Gustafson, Van Shepherd, Robert Suggs, Ricky Hammonds, and Myrden Pellegrin. The organization recognized each honoree for their significant contributions to aviation through service, education, leadership, innovation, and excellence in flight.

Coleman’s passion for aviation began at an early age, inspired by his father, Dr. Wyche Coleman, an avid pilot. Motivated by that influence, Coleman began flight training at just 10 years old and completed his first solo flight by age 16—an early milestone that set the stage for his future in aviation.

Over the years, Coleman has built an international reputation as an elite aerobatic pilot. He has flown with Red Bull Racing and performs in airshows around the world, representing the highest level of aerobatic flying.

Known for his precision and daring skill, Coleman captivates audiences with a range of complex aerial maneuvers. His performances often feature torque rolls, inverted flight, snap rolls, and knife-edge passes—each requiring exceptional control and technical expertise.

Beyond his performances, Coleman says he is passionate about promoting aviation across the United States. He aims to inspire new generations of pilots by showcasing the excitement and possibilities of flight.

The Louisiana Aviation Hall of Fame is housed at the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum in Monroe, where the 2026 inductees will be formally recognized.

Red River Parish School District Board Meeting
Wednesday, March 11, 2026 @ 3:30 PM

The meeting was opened by Ms. Melinda Hardy, President of the Board with Prayer; Mission Statement
led by Mr. Cleve Miller

Mission Statement: Red River Parish Schools Provide Excellent Education:
Every Child, Every Day, Whatever It Takes!

Finance Committee opened by Mr. Cleve Miller, Chairperson, with the following member(s) present: Ms.
Susan Taylor and Mr. Richard Cannon
Recommends payment of bills as motioned by Ms. Taylor and seconded by Mr. Cannon.
Recommends approving Revised Salary Scale FY 2026 as motioned by Mr. Cannon and seconded by
Ms. Taylor.
Committee received Monthly Report for all Major Funds from Mr. David Jones, Business Manager. No
action was taken.
Adjourned

Matt Vines

The Red River baseball team isn’t in the Division III Non-Select playoff brackets released Tuesday by the LHSAA.

The Bulldogs (13-15) ended the season on a four-game winning streak with a double-header win against Mansfield (19-2 and 15-0 scores) and wins against Saline (8-1) and Ebarb (5-2).

But Red River started that streak more than 1.5 power points out of the 24-team playoff picture, and the Bulldogs couldn’t push their way into the postseason.

This season’s 13 wins easily eclipsed the nine wins in 2025, but a deeper Division III Non-Select prevented the Bulldogs from making its sixth straight postseason appearance.

The Bulldogs last missed the postseason in 2019, winning at least one round in 2024 and 2022 while losing by a single run in 2021 and 2023.

Red River had its best season in program history in 2024, reaching the quarterfinals for the first time.

Red River spring sports won’t totally be shut out of the postseason. The softball team will learn whether they will host a first-round game when the softball playoffs are announced today.

The calendar for the Red River Parish Library is filling up quickly for April and May, so we want to be sure everyone knows what is happening in the upcoming weeks.

In the remaining days of April, we have the following items scheduled:

Wednesday, April 8: Bingo begins at 1:00 for patrons of all ages. There will be prizes and refreshments.

Friday, April 10: Storytime begins at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will read books and have activities for all.

Friday, April 10: The workshop on the library website begins at 1:00 for those patrons who want to learn more about the library website and how it can help them. This one hour workshop will be led by our very own librarians.

Wednesday, April 15: The genealogy meeting begins at 10:00 for anyone interested in working on their own genealogy. Mrs. Linda Young and/or Ms. Virginia Webb will share information with group members and will assist those who have questions about materials and how to use those materials.

Friday, April 17: Storytime begins at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms Kala will read books and have activities for all.

Friday, April 17: If someone missed the workshop held on April 10, he or she may attend the workshop on Friday, April 17 about the library website. The one hour workshop will begin at 1:00.

Friday, April 24: Storytime begins at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will read books and have activities for all.

Friday, April 24: The workshop about how to use the library website will be held one more time for those who have not yet been able to attend. The one hour workshop will begin at 1:00.

Tuesday, April 21: Today we launch the Louisiana State Park Library Program. A limited number of backpacks and state park passes will be available for check out through our library. This program is a partnership with the Louisiana State Parks and makes it easier for residents to connect with, explore, and appreciate our state’s natural and cultural heritage. If anyone is interested in this program, please contact the library by stopping by or calling 318-932-5614.

Tuesday, April 28: The second AI workshop will be held at 10:00 in the morning with a second session to be held at 2:00. Laptops will be provided. This workshop is for patrons who attended the first AI session earlier this year and will pick up where the first workshop ended. Because space is limited for each session, patrons should stop by or call the library to register for the time of their choice.

In the upcoming days of May, the following activities are scheduled:

Friday, May 1: Storytime will begin at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will have books to read and activities for all.

Wednesday, May 13: Bingo will begin at 1:00 for patrons of all ages. Prizes will be given and refreshments will be provided.

Friday, May 15: Storytime will begin at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will have books to read and activities for all.

Wednesday, May 20: The genealogy meeting will begin at 10:00 for all interested patrons. Mrs. Linda Young and/or Ms. Virginia Webb will present interesting information pertaining to researching one’s genealogy.

Friday, May 22: Storytime will begin at 10:00 for children and parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will have books to read and activities for all.

Monday, May 25: The library will be closed on this date in honor of Memorial Day.

Friday, May 29: Storytime will begin at 10:00 for children and parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will have books to read and activities for all.

Please mark the above dates on your calendars and attend the activities of your choice. Other activities may come up as time progresses.

Shared by Red River Parish Library

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fleur De Lis Stage

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roque House Stage

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

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

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

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

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

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

                This morning at the dayschool, the fish tank was mysteriously covered with a blanket like it was being punished for bad behavior. If you didn’t know better, you might’ve thought the fish were grounded for talking back to the teacher or refusing to share their crayons. But no—turns out we’ve got ourselves an algae outbreak. A full‑blown, green, slimy, “Swamp Thing” situation. And the only way to get it under control is to keep the light out until the bloom settles down.

               Now, I’m no marine biologist, but I do know this: when the fish tank is greener than a St. Patrick’s Day parade, something’s off.

               And wouldn’t you know it—Jesus has something to say about this.

               Because algae, as it turns out, loves light. Not the good, life‑giving kind of light Jesus talks about. No, algae loves the “I’ve‑been-left-alone-too-long-without-boundaries” kind of light. Give algae too much light, and it throws a party. Give it a little more, and it invites all its cousins. Before long, the fish are filing formal complaints and asking for relocation.

               So the solution?
               Cover the tank.
               Limit the light.
               Let things reset.

               And that’s when it hit me: sometimes God does the same thing with us.

               Not because we’re bad. Not because we’re in trouble. But because something in us has started growing that doesn’t belong there—resentment, worry, pride, comparison, hurry, that one comment someone made in 2009 that we still replay like it’s a classic movie.

               Sometimes the Lord lovingly puts a “cover” over our tank.

               A season of quiet.
               A pause we didn’t choose.
               A slowdown we didn’t schedule.
               A moment where the lights dim and we wonder, “What is happening?”

               But maybe God is simply helping us get rid of the spiritual algae that’s clouding the water.

               Jesus once said, “I am the light of the world,” and He also said, “You are the light of the world.” But He never said, “You need to be under the spotlight all the time.” Sometimes the brightest thing God can do is give us a little shade so the unhealthy stuff stops multiplying.

               Think about it: When was the last time you slowed down long enough to notice what was growing in you? When did you last let God filter the water of your soul?

               The fish tank will be uncovered Thursday morning. The water will clear. The fish will go back to doing whatever fish do (mostly judging us through the glass). But the covering is part of the healing.

               Maybe you’re in a covered‑tank season right now. Maybe God is dimming the lights not to punish you, but to purify you.         Not to hide you, but to help you.

               And when the cover comes off, you’ll shine clearer, brighter, and more beautifully than before.

               Even the fish would say amen to that—if they weren’t so busy swimming in circles.

Melrose, Louisiana – Get ready to experience the magic of handcrafted wonders at the 52nd Annual Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival, taking place on April 18th from 9 am to 5 pm, and April 19th from 10 am to 3 pm. The festival will be held at Melrose on the Cane where attendees can immerse themselves in a vibrant showcase of unique treasures crafted by talented artisans, savor a variety of delicious foods, sip on beer, wine, and other refreshing beverages such as fresh squeezed lemonade. Homemade ice cream returns to the festival this year as a long standing fan favorite as well as iron and wood works for your home and garden. We are also excited to feature local authors throughout the festival, along with live demonstrations that highlight traditional crafts such as basket weaving and quilting. These interactive experiences offer guests a chance to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Additionally, Randolph “Randy” Deaton will be presenting a special talk on Clementine Hunter on Saturday, April 18 at 11 AM. Guests are encouraged to bring any photos or personal stories they may have of Clementine Hunter, which can be scanned and added to his growing collection.

Tickets for this exciting event can be purchased at: https://givebutter.com/MelroseArtsAndCrafts2026. Attendees will be able to shop for: stunning jewelry, exquisite paintings, savory salsa, intricate woodwork, delectable desserts, and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply looking for something special, there’s something for everyone to discover and cherish at the Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival.

“We’d love for y’all to come out, shop, and support historic Melrose. Take in the views, check out all the vendors, and just enjoy a good day together at the festival. Tours of the Big House and African House will be available- so bring your friends and family and make it a day to remember, ” said Ariel Rachal event organizer.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate over five decades of artistic excellence at the 52nd Annual Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival. Purchase your tickets today and join us for a weekend of creativity, community, and celebration!

For ticket information and event updates, please visit https://givebutter.com/MelroseArtsAndCrafts2026

Media Contact: Ariel Rachal, EmailMelrosePlantation@gmail.com

About the Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival: The Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival is an annual celebration of artistry, creativity, and community spirit. For 52 years, the festival has showcased the talents of local artisans and provided a platform for visitors to discover unique handcrafted treasures. Join us as we celebrate over five decades of artistic excellence and continue to inspire creativity for generations to come.

Red River Parish Public Schools will hold Parent-Teacher Conferences Apr 23 from 4-6pm & Apr 24 from 7:45am until noon. 

Red River High School will have a track meet Fri, Apr 16. Field events begin at 3pm and running events begin at 4:15pm. Admission is $10.

The Coushatta-Red River Chamber of Commerce first Farmers’ Market & Makers’ Fair is Apr 18 on Front Street from 7am until 2pm. No vendor fees. Complete Vendor Registration here. Questions contact Brandon Baxley at 318.332.4159.

Red River Junior High will host a Carnival of Knowledge: Math & Literacy Testing Night Apr 23 from 4-6pm. LEAP testing information will be shared. Snacks, games and lots of fun!

Holley Springs Southern Methodist Church in Martin will celebrate its annual memorial service Sun Apr 26 at the 11am service. A pot luck lunch will follow on the grounds. 

Clara Springs Baptist Camp will host the 38th Annual District Eight Missions & Ministries Adult Day Thru May 14 from 10am until noon with lunch to follow. Blake Brothers in concert. The event is free to adults of all ages. RSVP to 318.352.4090 or office@districteightmissions.com.

A one night revival is scheduled for May 23 at 4pm at the Hall Summit Community Center & Park. Worship will be led by New Light Church & New Light Baptist Church. Speaker is Marvin Leleux. Bring your chairs.

The LSU AgCenter reported providing the local communities with over 8,800 pounds of locally grown tomatoes in the last 30 days!

Reports indicate Louisiana Tech and Conference USA may have reached an agreement that would clear the way for the Bulldogs to officially join the Sun Belt on July 1, but no formal announcement had been made as of now.

USPS to suspend pension contributions, seeks 4-cent stamp price hike.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries ratifies Declaration of Emergency for Chronic Wasting Disease.