Fa’Dasia Demery has reached a historic milestone, becoming the first student from Red River Parish to graduate with an associate degree while still in high school. Her achievement reflects years of determination, discipline, and a commitment to academic excellence.

Balancing the demands of dual enrollment, Demery maintained a 3.2 grade point average in college coursework while earning a perfect 4.0 GPA at the high school level. Educators say her ability to excel in both environments demonstrates not only intellectual ability but also exceptional time management and perseverance.

Demery credits much of her success to the unwavering support of her family. She is the daughter of Phyllis Calhoun, whose encouragement has played a pivotal role in her academic journey. She also honors the memory of her late father, Freddie Demery, whose legacy continues to inspire her drive to succeed.
Beyond the classroom, Demery has built an impressive record of leadership and service. She served as both Co-Captain and Captain of the Red River High School cheerleading squad, helping lead her team with dedication and school spirit. Her involvement in 4-H spans a decade, including service as a Junior Leader, where she mentored younger members and contributed to community initiatives.

As a Bayou Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Scholar, Demery completed more than 350 volunteer hours, underscoring her commitment to helping others. She also represented her community as a Louisiana Girls State delegate and is a member of the National Honor Society.

Following graduation, Demery plans to attend Southern University in Baton Rouge to pursue a career in nursing. She hopes to specialize in caring for newborns and supporting their families, aiming to make a meaningful impact at the very beginning of life.

Her accomplishment represents not only personal success but also the collective support of her family, mentors, and the Red River Parish community. Demery’s journey stands as a powerful example for future students, showing that with dedication and strong support, extraordinary goals are within reach.

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The Louisiana Department of Health has released its 2025 letter grades for community water systems across the state, including several systems in Red River Parish. The annual report card gives residents a clearer look at the quality and performance of the systems that provide their drinking water and is mandated by the Community Drinking Water Accountability Rule (Act 98 of the 2021 Regular Legislative Session).

The water grading system, authorized in 2021, is part of the Safe Drinking Water Program’s broader effort to strengthen accountability among water providers while empowering consumers with clear information about their drinking water. The grades are calculated using a standardized 100-point scale based on seven critical categories:

1. Federal Water Quality Compliance
2. State Water Quality Compliance
3. Financial Sustainability
4. Operation and Maintenance
5. Infrastructure Sustainability
6. Customer Satisfaction
7. Secondary Contaminants (iron and manganese)

Red River Parish Water System Scores:

Water System	Score	Grade
Bayou Pierre Water System	47	F
Coushatta Water System	81	B
East Cross Water System	74	C
Edgefield Water System	89	B
Fairview Union Water System	70	C
Halfway-Carroll Water System	99	A
Hall Summit Water System	100	A
Hickory Grove Water System	55	F
Martin Water System	96	A
Social Springs Water System (North)	72	C
Social Springs Water System (South)	87	B

 

LDH officials said the grades are designed to improve transparency and help residents better understand the performance of their local water systems.

For more information, visit the Bureau of Engineering Services’ Community Drinking Water Accountability webpage.

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Coushatta native Ty Birdsong has earned national recognition for his academic excellence and commitment to compassionate care, marking a significant milestone in his medical career.

Birdsong was inducted this past month into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) National Honor Medical Society, an organization founded in 1902 that recognizes the top medical students in the nation. Membership is reserved for those who demonstrate excellence in leadership, professionalism, service, and scholarship, placing Birdsong among the top 10 percent of his peers. He was honored during a formal banquet at The Petroleum Club in Shreveport, where he proudly accepted the distinction.

Induction into AOA is widely regarded as a strong indicator of academic achievement and is often a key factor in securing competitive residency placements. Birdsong has set his sights on specializing in orthopedic surgery as he prepares to enter his final year of medical school next semester.

Earlier this year, Birdsong received additional recognition when he was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society. This honor highlights medical students, residents, and faculty who exemplify compassionate patient care and serve as role models, mentors, and leaders in the field. Candidates are nominated by their peers and undergo a rigorous review process conducted by a faculty selection committee.

A 2016 graduate of Red River High School, Birdsong’s accomplishments reflect years of dedication, discipline, and a passion for medicine. His achievements have brought pride not only to his hometown of Coushatta but also to his family and community.

Family members say Birdsong’s journey has been supported by strong values and encouragement from his parents, Don Louis and Gina Birdsong, who continue to celebrate his success.

As he approaches the final stages of his medical education, Birdsong remains focused on his goals and committed to making a meaningful impact in the field of medicine. His story serves as an inspiring example for future students pursuing careers in healthcare.

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 Matt Vibes

Red River baseball trio commits to Champion Christian
Three Red River baseball players will continue their careers in college as the trio committed to Champion Christian College in Hot Springs, Ark.

Elijah Murphy, Kade Martinez, and Nolan Moore committed to the NAIA member institution.

These players were part of three playoff teams at Red River, which included the program’s first-ever quarterfinals appearance in 2024.

Red River won 13 games this season and finished third in District 3-2A.

Murphy and Moore led the team with batting averages of .367 and .359, respectively.

Martinez finished the season with a .243 batting average.

Riverdale anglers finish Louisiana trail at state championships
Riverdale anglers Jase Johnson and Riley Keith finished their Louisiana Youth BASS Nation season at the state championships at Doiron’s Landing in Morgan City.

The pair bagged two fish weighing 2.22 pounds on Sunday, finishing 60th.

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Residents will have an opportunity to check in on their health during a Community Health Fair planned for Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Red River Council on Aging, 1824 Front Street in Coushatta. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The fair will offer several basic health screenings, including blood pressure checks, weight and height measurements, and blood sugar checks. Organizers are also planning door prizes for those who attend.

A number of vendors are expected to take part, including representatives from home health, the resource center, CHRISTUS Coushatta, medical technology, rehab centers, hospice, LaCHIP, Acadian On Call, and blood sugar check services.

Blood work will also be available through CHRISTUS Coushatta Healthcare. The flyer lists a lipid profile for $10, a comprehensive profile (CMP) for $10, and tests including HGB A1C, TSH, and CBC for $5 each. The flyer also notes that some services are being provided at no charge through the MLK Health Center & Pharmacy / BHF Heart Program.

The health fair is designed to give local residents a simple way to access screenings, lab work, and information from health-related organizations all in one place.

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Northwestern State University’s Office of Accessibility and Disability Support welcomed guests to a newly renovated space where students are more comfortable and staff better able to meet their needs.

OADS serves students with disabilities by providing the accommodations they need to thrive academically and personally. Director Crissey Smith said the OADS staff helped 315 students this semester, up from 275 last semester.

The center offers accommodations for testing, coursework and technology for qualified students. Staff also includes Administrative Coordinator Rachel Cunningham and Test Coordinator Laura Hogg.

“The newly renovated space and staff will enable us to continue to expand our services to reach more students here at NSU,” Smith said. “With increased size, the facility offers enhanced privacy and a more tranquil environment, better supporting student needs. In the fall semester, we observed a rise in students signed up for services, serving 350 students compared to 300 during the previous fall. This growth underscores the critical role of the Office of Accessibility and Disability Support in providing essential resources. Beyond virtual communication, our office is committed to delivering support through a warm, welcoming and inclusive in-person environment.”

“This space is meeting our ever changing and diverse population of students, letting every student know they are supported and encouraged,” said Reatha Cox, vice president for the Student Experience and dean of Students. “OADS plays a vital role in ensuring that our students have equitable access to the opportunities and experiences that NSU provides.”

The center is located in Room 111 of Eugene P. Watson Memorial Library, formerly the Louisiana Documents room, where almost 500 shelving units were removed, walls repainted with assistance from the NSU football team and art by Professor Corbin Covher added. It’s just around the corner from NSU’s Academic Success Center and students can test quietly in a multifunctional space with adjustable height tables and moveable furniture that can be reconfigured as needed. The renovation was made possible with input from Cox, Administrative Assistant Sonya Fair, Director of Student Affairs Dr. Yonna Pasch, Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Greg Handel, Director of University Affairs Jen Kelly and Director of Libraries Dr. Megan Lowe.

Information on NSU’s Office of Accessibility and Disability Support is available at
https://www.nsula.edu/student-resources/office-of-accessibility-and-disability-support/.

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Notice is hereby given pursuant to the Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Louisiana Public Service Commission (“LPSC”) that Southwestern Electric Power Company (“SWEPCO”), an electric public utility supplying retail electric service to approximately 235,000 customers in eleven Parishes in the State of Louisiana through its retail business, and who also serves customers in Arkansas and Texas, filed with the LPSC its annual filing for a rate adjustment to its Formula Rate Plan (“FRP”), so it can continue to provide safe and reliable service for its customers in Louisiana. The eleven Parishes through which SWEPCO’s service area extends in Louisiana are: Bossier, Bienville, Caddo, DeSoto, Grant, Natchitoches, Red River, Sabine, Webster, Winn, and Vernon.

Notice will be published in the Official Bulletin of the LPSC. Pertinent docket information will be provided in the Official Bulletin. The annual Formula Rate Plan adjustment will allow for SWEPCO to continue to provide and maintain safe and reliable service for its Louisiana customers, and is being submitted in accordance with LPSC Order No. U-37502 dated April 7, 2026.

SWEPCO’s FRP filed at the LPSC on May 1, 2026 may be viewed in the office of the LPSC in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and on the LPSC’s website (www.lpsc.louisiana.gov) upon publication in the LPSC’s Official Bulletin. Additionally, SWEPCO may be contacted at 318-673-3453 regarding any questions.

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Clara Springs Fourth Friday Fish Fry will be held Fri, Apr 25 from 5-7pm. Cost is $15 ($10 for kids 10-17). Dinner includes All you can eat fried fish, coleslaw, french fries, hushpuppies, pinto beans, lemon bread pudding, homemade ice cream and drink. Martin Baptist Church will host.

The Mansfield State Historic Site will host a compelling presentation on the women of the American Civil War on May 9 at 10am. This program will highlight the courage and contributions of women on and off the battlefield—from nurses and spies to soldiers in disguise and civilians who kept communities together during wartime. Discover the powerful stories and lasting impact of women whose roles helped shape history. This program will highlight the courage and contributions of women on and off the battlefield—from nurses and spies to soldiers in disguise and civilians who kept communities together during wartime. Discover the powerful stories and lasting impact of women whose roles helped shape history.

May 16 will host triple events: Boilin’ on the Red, Market Day and the 4-H Pet Show. All will be held at the Fairgrounds.

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.

President Trump signed a proclamation recognizing National Youth Sports and Fitness Month and restoring the Presidential Fitness Test Award.

The inaugural Jazz Fest in 1970 had an attendance of 350 people. This year, 475,000!

Free drinks and snacks are no longer on the flight plan of some Delta flights.

According to multiple reports, Louisiana is the first state to receive broadband expansion approval.

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Wiley Hillary Holland, Jr.
August 2, 1956 – May 5, 2026
Funeral services will be held Friday, May 8, 2026 at 10am at Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home Chapel in Coushatta.

Dora Inez Terrell Johniken
December 4, 1935 – April 30, 2026
A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 1pm at Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home Chapel in Coushatta.

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Volunteers in the Village of Martin spent the morning of April 25 helping clean up the community as part of Louisiana’s Love the Boot initiative. The cleanup was held from 8 a.m. to noon, with volunteers collecting more than 90 bags of trash along Hwy. 507, Hwy. 155, Hwy. 786, Sledge Road and Benton Adkins Road.

Love the Boot is a statewide effort led by Keep Louisiana Beautiful and is considered Louisiana’s largest litter removal and beautification event, with groups participating in communities across all 64 parishes. The program encourages residents to take pride in their communities through cleanup, beautification, recycling and litter prevention efforts.

Volunteers in Martin ranged in age from 5 years old to retirement age. Participants received Love the Boot T-shirts provided by the state and lunch from Grayson’s. One first-time volunteer said, “It just makes you feel good to get out there and clean up!”

Those helping with the cleanup included Laura and Nealy Kate Keith; Cindy, Ella Rae and Everal Pickett; Brandon, Erica, Madalyn and Jace Baxley; Mike and Carol Tingle; Rex and Toni Lawson; Andy Long; Danny Snead; Kevin Robinette; Burt Robinette; and Mayor Mary Ann Longino.

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Matt Vines

The Riverdale Academy boys and girls track teams each logged a 13th-place finish at the MAIS Class A state meet.

The girls scored 11 points and the boys accumulated seven points.

The best finish on either side came from senior Julia Grace Riggs, who barely missed the podium in the shot put with her toss of 29-02.75 for fourth place.

Freshman Kandyn Nettles came in fifth in the 400 meters with a 57.30.

Senior Makayla Pickett flung the discus 80-05 to place fifth.

Senior Zane Givens placed seventh in the 200 meters with a 25.97.

Senior Alaina Boyd finished seventh in the 300 hurdle with a 56.86.

The boys 4×400 relay finished eighth with a 4:22.77. Nettles ran the first leg followed by Tyler Wilhite, Lane Mancil and Givens.

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Cinco de Mayo, observed on May 5, is a celebration of Mexican heritage and culture, marking the Mexican army’s victory at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. While the holiday is more widely celebrated in the United States than in Mexico, it has become known for bringing people together through food, music and community events.

Across the area, Cinco de Mayo is often celebrated with gatherings featuring traditional Mexican dishes, festive decorations and time spent with family and friends. Whether enjoying tacos, music or simply the spirit of the day, the holiday offers a chance to appreciate culture and celebrate community.

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Some Louisiana residents who were covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield plans could begin receiving payments from a long-running national settlement tied to an antitrust lawsuit.

The $2.67 billion settlement stems from claims that the Blue Cross Blue Shield system limited competition among its member companies. While the case did not result in an admission of wrongdoing, the agreement created a settlement fund to compensate eligible individuals, employees and businesses who were covered under certain plans during the qualifying time period.

For Louisiana, this includes customers of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana who met the eligibility requirements and filed a claim before the November 2021 deadline. Those who did not submit a claim will not receive a payment.

After legal fees and administrative costs, the total amount available for distribution is expected to be smaller than the original settlement figure, with payments varying based on factors such as type of coverage and premiums paid. Reports indicate that distributions could begin in 2026.

Officials associated with the settlement have said payments will be issued automatically to approved claimants, with no additional action required.

While the settlement is national in scope, it could impact thousands of policyholders across Louisiana who took part in the claims process several years ago.

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Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services Secretary Rebecca Harris led a discussion between national experts, national and state leaders, and members of the Louisiana Legislature on the current state of Child Welfare and to collaborate on needed reforms.

“It is clear with the many discussions around Child Welfare and needed reforms that we all want what is best for Louisiana’s children. This roundtable was held to bring everyone together, along with experts from across the country, so that we can coordinate efforts, align goals, and agree on the path forward,” said DCFS Secretary Harris.

National experts present included Dr. David Sanders, executive vice president of systems improvement for Casey Family Programs and chair for Congress’ Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities, Dr. Alex Mayer, former head of the West Virginia Department of Human Services, and Cody Cathey, technology lead for the Administration for Children and Families.

Louisiana Senators Regina Barrow and Beth Mizell, along with Julie Emerson, Governor Landry’s chief of staff, also attended.

After a brief overview of current program challenges and data, the group discussed opportunities to strengthen Child Welfare, taking into consideration outcomes from other states and using guidance from the national experts.

Key discussion points included improved and sustained communication between all systems involved in a child’s well-being, transparency, and understanding the most at-risk populations.

DCFS leadership remains committed to child safety, stabilizing families, and collaborating with our partners.

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Fans of a galaxy far, far away will be celebrating May the 4th, an unofficial holiday inspired by the famous “Star Wars” phrase, “May the Force be with you.” Each year, the day has grown in popularity, with fans dressing up as their favorite characters, hosting movie marathons, and sharing their love for the franchise.

May the 4th has become a lighthearted way for families and friends to join in the fun, whether that means rewatching classic films, sporting Star Wars gear, or simply enjoying a few themed jokes online. For many, it’s a chance to connect over a shared love of one of the most iconic movie series of all time.

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Residents will have an opportunity to check in on their health during a Community Health Fair planned for Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Red River Council on Aging, 1824 Front Street in Coushatta. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The fair will offer several basic health screenings, including blood pressure checks, weight and height measurements, and blood sugar checks. Organizers are also planning door prizes for those who attend.

A number of vendors are expected to take part, including representatives from home health, the resource center, CHRISTUS Coushatta, medical technology, rehab centers, hospice, LaCHIP, Acadian On Call, and blood sugar check services.

Blood work will also be available through CHRISTUS Coushatta Healthcare. The flyer lists a lipid profile for $10, a comprehensive profile (CMP) for $10, and tests including HGB A1C, TSH, and CBC for $5 each. The flyer also notes that some services are being provided at no charge through the MLK Health Center & Pharmacy / BHF Heart Program.

The health fair is designed to give local residents a simple way to access screenings, lab work, and information from health-related organizations all in one place.

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Firehouse Subs is running a one-day promotion on Wed May 6, giving away a free medium Steak & Cheese Melt to customers with certain names. The offer is open to anyone whose name is part of the “Mike family,” including Mike, Michael, Mikey, Miguel, Michelle, Michele, and Michaela. Customers must show a valid ID at participating locations to receive the free sandwich, which is part of a promotion for the chain’s new menu item.

The Riverdale Sophomore Class will hold a fundraiser at The York Chop May 7 from 5pm until closing. There will also be baked goods for sale.

The 11th Annual MayDaze Car Show will take place May 9 from 9am to 1pm at Many High School, bringing a day of classic cars, food, and family fun to the area. The event will feature door prizes, over 25 awards, BBQ dinners, and a variety of vendors, including baked goods from the Many High School Band Booster Club. Attendees can also participate in raffles and Split the Pot drawings for a chance to win themed baskets. Spectator admission is free.

CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier will host its annual free skin cancer screening on Tues May 12, at the CHRISTUS Cancer Center in Shreveport. The event will take place from 5:30-7:30pm and is open to the public, offering community members a chance to have concerning skin spots evaluated by medical professionals. Screenings are free, but space is limited and appointments are encouraged. To schedule a screening, individuals can call 318-681-6231.

The First Baptist Church Coushatta will host a Ladies Craft Night set for May 22 at 6pm in the Fellowship Hall, featuring a painting activity led by Julie Long. Participants will create a church-themed piece while enjoying a fun, relaxed evening together. The cost is $30, and the deadline to sign up is May 10. Attendees are encouraged to wear something they don’t mind getting paint on.

A Louisiana tourism commercial is now casting extras, offering a unique opportunity for residents to be part of a statewide production. Individuals ages 7 to 70 are encouraged to apply, with no acting experience required. Filming will take place in several locations, including New Iberia, Lafayette, Opelousas, Shreveport, and Monroe throughout mid-May. The project is paid and open to local hires of all backgrounds, with individuals, couples, and families welcome to participate. Those interested can submit their name, age, location, and recent photos by emailing LAtourism2026@yahoo.com

The Louisiana Purchase document is now on display at the Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge. The historic piece was unveiled this week and will remain available for public viewing through July 11. State officials encouraged residents to visit the Old State Capitol and see the important document, which represents a major part of Louisiana and American history.

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