Tyler Hughes honored as Red River High retires his jersey

Red River High School celebrated one of its most accomplished student-athletes on April 13, 2026, as Tyler Hughes’ baseball jersey was officially retired in a ceremony that drew teammates, coaches, family, and community members together.

Hughes, a 2024 graduate, left an enduring mark on the school’s baseball program during his four-year career. Known for his versatility as both a pitcher and utility player, he earned All-District and All-State honors multiple times, distinguishing himself as one of the most dynamic players to ever wear a Red River uniform.

But Hughes’ impact extended far beyond statistics. Coaches and teammates consistently pointed to his leadership and character as defining traits. He was widely respected for his ability to bring players together, fostering a sense of unity that helped elevate the entire team. Under his influence, Red River achieved some of its most memorable seasons, with Hughes often at the center of the team’s success both on and off the field.

Equally impressive were Hughes’ accomplishments in the classroom. A dedicated scholar, he balanced the demands of high-level athletics with academic excellence, setting a standard for what it means to be a true student-athlete.

“Tyler represents everything we hope for in our athletes,” one coach shared during the ceremony. “He competed at the highest level, supported his teammates, and never lost sight of the importance of his education.”

Now continuing his baseball journey at Centenary College as a member of the Gents baseball team, Hughes is building on the foundation he established at Red River. His jersey retirement not only honors his past achievements but also serves as inspiration for future generations of Red River athletes.

As his number takes its permanent place among the school’s all-time greats, Tyler Hughes’ legacy is firmly cemented—one defined by excellence, leadership, and a lasting impact on his team and community.


Red River Parish residents inducted into Alpha Lambda Delta at NSU

Northwestern State University recently inducted 130 new members into Alpha Lambda Delta, the national honor society for first-year college students who earn a 3.5 grade point average or higher during their first year of college.

The induction ceremony took place as part of Honors Week at NSU. Alpha Lambda Delta encourages academic excellence and offers students opportunities for scholarship, leadership training, and continued involvement in campus honor societies.

Among the new members were Red River Parish natives Anna Grace Mabile, Shelby Pickett, and Rafe Suggs.

For many students, Alpha Lambda Delta serves as a stepping-stone to additional academic, leadership, and Greek honor societies as they continue their college careers.

The organization’s officers for the 2026-2027 year are President Rachel Wagoner of Haughton, Vice President Baylee Johnson of Robeline, Secretary Drew Kent of Haughton, Treasurer William Brayden Campbell of Marthaville, Service and Philanthropy Chair Gracie Ross of Denham Springs, Faculty/Staff Liaison Kaleb Godwin of Leesville, Scholarship Chair Madison Scott of Shreveport, Historian and Public Relations Chair Kaylee Stacy of Natchitoches, and Junior Advisor Heidi Gauthier of Moreauville.

Alpha Lambda Delta was established in 1924, and the Northwestern State chapter was founded in 1965. The NSU chapter has built a strong reputation for excellence on campus and nationally. Last fall, the chapter earned the national “Maintaining the Flame” Award, one of only two annual awards presented to the most outstanding Alpha Lambda Delta chapters.

Since 2018, the NSU chapter has been recognized seven times as a recipient of either the Order of the Torch or Maintaining the Flame award. Members are active in campus life through events such as Demon Days Welcome, the Sophomore Breakfast Club, Be a Tourist in Your College Town, and a variety of service projects that include helping with the NSU Food Pantry, Special Olympics, and the First Year Experience initiative.

The induction of local students into Alpha Lambda Delta reflects both their hard work in the classroom and their promising future as student leaders at Northwestern State University.
New inductees are as follows.

Addis — Kennedy Fiscus

Alexandria — Shakiya Allen, Lawson Kirsch, Destinee Morris, Trinity Patrick, Roye’l Roberts, Kelsey Stuckey

Baton Rouge — Seth Curole, Alexandra Wilfong

Beaumont, Texas — Cayenne Rye

Bell City — Diana Lopez

Belle Chasse — Kaidyn Meyers

Benton — Jacob Butler, Olivia Kolb

Bossier City — Yousra Awawda, Bianca Capelli, Alyssa Espinosa, Chase McLaurin, Elyssa Moore, Joseph Resendez, Stephanie Salas Hernandez, Lauren Wendrock

Boyce — Chloe Cloessner

Breaux Bridge — Shanna Champagne, Kyrsten Torres

Broussard — Alexis JeanBatiste

Bunkie — Peyton Longlois

Campti — Zoey Fulton, Alexia Moore

Carencro — Owen Kennerson

Castor — Leanna Colson, Malorie Cooper, Camie Young

Cloutierville — Sydni Jones

Colfax — Bella Daniela

Coushatta — Anna Grace Mabile, Shelby Pickett, Rafe Suggs

Delhi — Laiyla Johnson

Denham Springs — Grace Ross

DeRidder — Autumn Dawson, Jalynn Guimbellot, Mia Riveria

Diana, Texas — Liam Donaghy

Dry Creek — Samuel Bailey, Kaylee Guillory, Adley Hardwick

Dry Prong — Ian Tarver

Eunice — Emily Autrey

Forrest Hill — Kari Polakovich

Fort Polk — Rosemary Carver

Gloster — Makayla Butler

Goldonna — Cannon Hatcher

Grand Cane — Carmen Puckett

Gray — Dru Thibodeaux

Haughton — Hannah Fields, Andrew Kent, Emilie North, Rachel Wagoner

Houma — Taylor Comeaux, Emma LeBoeuf

Izmir Turkey — Melis Özipek

Keithville — Katie Hester, Madison Lenser

Kinder — Davyn Johnson

Lafayette — Davyn Johnson, Katherine Johnson, Sophie Normand

Lake Arthur — Mallory Lyon

Lake Charles — Halee Jackson

Leesville — Kaleb Godwin, Jasmine Tatum, Adalynn Wright

Livingston, Texas — Kaleigh Standley

Many — Madison Cauthen

Marksville — Addison Clark

Marthaville — William Brayden Campbell

Maurice – Emily Hargrave

Minden — McKenna Chreene

Monroe — Daisy Guy, Kamari Ward

Maurice — Emily Hargrave

Metairie — Ainsley Leaman

Natchez — Mallory LaCour

Natchitoches — Sariah Braxton, Avery Broadway, Ava Bush, Cailah Bush, Breanna Hale, Darlisha Jefferson, Brooklyn Jones, Aliyah Mason, Evan McDonough, Jaden Smith, Kaylee Stacy

New Iberia — Emma Menard

Pineville — Hannah Gore, Ashleigh Moses, Annmarie Sanders

Ragley — Amanda Saizan

Ringgold — Shelby Pickett

Robeline — Jax Colston, Allison Goings, Jon Henderson, Maddie Hendon, Baylee Johnson, Gabe Roe

Scott — Amireyon Wesley

Shreveport — Amber Bledsoe, Ava Colvin, Cassie Donaghey, Precious Green, Piper Haynes, Ryann Jackson, Breanne Jones, Aliyah Mason, Carley Prim, Carolina Resendez, Madison Scott, Kirsten Sepulvado, Kendrah Shields, Mariah Smith

Springfield — Reagan Scivicque

St. Francisville — Nakiya Pittman

Stonewall — Laylen Wallace, Gabriel Williams

West Monroe — Jenianne Chase, Abbygale Sims

Winnfield — Mattie Barnes, Kyleigh Blundell, John Pickett

Youngsville — Caitlin Davis

Zwolle — Emma Meshell, Summer Sepulvado

Alpha Lambda Delta Inductees:

Northwestern State initiated 130 new members into Alpha Lambda Delta, the honor society for first-year students. Alpha Lambda Delta fosters lifelong academic success, scholarship opportunities and leadership training.


Red River softball season ends in first round of the playoffs

Matt Vines

COUSHATTA – The Red River softball team slid into a first-round home game for the second straight season, the first time in program history the Lady Bulldogs accomplished that feat.

But the playoff road ended there Thursday as No. 16 Red River fell to No. 17 Church Point in a 16-0 loss in three innings.

The visiting Lady Bears (13-16) scored 13 runs in the first inning, facing more than 60 pitches from starting pitcher Maddie Baxley in that opening frame.

Church Point runners found their way onto the basepaths in a variety of ways, scoring four runs before Red River recorded the first out.

While there were many critical junctures in the first inning, a three-run home run from Madeline Broce that pushed Church Point’s edge to 11-0.

Red River (15-11) scattered a handful of runners on the bases in their three at-bats, but the Lady Bulldogs couldn’t manage a serious scoring threat against pitcher Joshlyn Melancon.

Church Point advances to face No. 1 Jena in the second round.

Red River and Church Point were destined to play each other in the first round of the playoffs as the teams jockeyed for home field advantage in the final days of the regular season.

The Lady Bulldogs’ win against Dodson on Monday likely secured a home game for Red River, who had arguably their second-best season ever following last year’s 20-win campaign.

Red River earned a home game by edging Church Point by fractions of a power point when the playoff brackets were released Wednesday.

The game was put together quickly with one day’s turnaround, playing much earlier than most other playoff teams, which have until Saturday to finish the first round.

While the program is still looking for its first-ever playoff victory in its eighth playoff appearance, hosting its third home playoff game and second in the last two seasons is still a positive step forward.


RRPSB seeking teacher/volleyball coach

For the 26-27 school year, the Red River Parish School Board is seeking a passionate Teacher/ Head Volleyball Coach who excels in delivering engaging academic instruction while building a competitive, character-driven volleyball program to join our faculty. 
 
Qualifications: 
  • Valid LA teaching certification (or eligibility to obtain one).
  • Volleyball coaching experience.
Key Responsibilities include and not limited to:
  • Create a vibrant learning environment that challenges and supports students of all levels.
  • Manage all aspects of the Volleyball program, including varsity coaching, practice planning, and player development.
Why Join Us: 
  • Highly competitive salary plus coaching stipend.
  • Excellent facilities and athletic resources.
  • Supportive athletic community.
  • A school culture that values work-life balance and professional growth.

Interested applicants should apply through the Red River Parish School Board website (www.rrbulldogs.comunder “Employment” and “Teacher Applications”

For salary information and a more detailed job description email your request to neason@rrbulldogs.com

Deadline to apply is May 1, 2026.


RRPSB taking applications for teacher/head baseball coach and head softball coach

Baseball Coach
 
For the 26-27 school year, the Red River Parish School Board is seeking a passionate Teacher/ Head Baseball Coach who excels in delivering engaging academic instruction while building a competitive, character-driven baseball program to join our faculty. 
 
Qualifications: 
  • Valid LA teaching certification (or eligibility to obtain one).
  • Baseball coaching experience.
Key Responsibilities include and not limited to:
  • Deliver engaging lessons and support students’ success. 
  • Manage all aspects of the Baseball program, including varsity coaching, practice planning, and player development.
Why Join Us: 
  • Highly competitive salary plus coaching stipend.
  • Excellent facilities and athletic resources.
  • Supportive athletic community.
  • A school culture that values work-life balance and professional growth.

Interested applicants should apply through the Red River Parish School Board website (www.rrbulldogs.comunder “Employment” and “Teacher Applications”

For salary information and a more detailed job description email your request to neason@rrbulldogs.com

Deadline to apply is May 1, 2026.

Softball Coach

For the 26-27 school year, the Red River Parish School Board is seeking a dedicated Teacher/ Head Softball Coach to join our faculty and lead our Softball program. We are seeking a candidate who is just as committed to student success in the classroom as they are building a winning culture on the diamond. 
 
Qualifications: 
  • Valid LA teaching certification (or eligibility to obtain one).
  • Softball coaching experience.
Key Responsibilities include and not limited to:
  • Deliver engaging lessons and support students’ success. 
  • Manage all aspects of the Softballball program, including varsity coaching, practice planning, and player development.
Why Join Us: 
  • Highly competitive salary plus coaching stipend.
  • Excellent facilities and athletic resources.
  • Supportive athletic community.
  • A school culture that values work-life balance and professional growth.

Interested applicants should apply through the Red River Parish School Board website (www.rrbulldogs.comunder “Employment” and “Teacher Applications”

For salary information and a more detailed job description email your request to neason@rrbulldogs.com

Deadline to apply is May 1, 2026.


Coushatta Chute DAR announces community mural project

 COUSHATTA, La. — The Coushatta Chute Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), in coordination with the Town of Coushatta, is proud to announce plans for a new community mural in celebration of America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The mural, which will be located in Coushatta, is intended to honor the nation’s rich history while highlighting the unique heritage and spirit of the local community. As part of the America 250 initiative, the project aims to inspire reflection on the founding ideals of the United States—liberty, patriotism, and civic responsibility—while bringing residents together through public art.

Chapter Regent Karen Squires shared that the mural will serve as both an educational and cultural landmark. “This project is an opportunity to celebrate our nation’s past while creating something meaningful for future generations here in Coushatta,” she said. “We hope it will be a source of pride for the entire community.”

As part of the planning process, the Coushatta Chute Chapter is inviting local artists to submit designs and creative ideas for possible inclusion in the mural. Artists of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to participate.

The deadline for submissions is May 1, 2026. Entries should be emailed to kts8_14@yahoo.com
with the subject line “YOUR NAME_Mural Project.” Submissions may include sketches, written concepts, or other visual ideas that reflect both American history and the Coushatta community.

The design of the mural will incorporate elements of American history alongside imagery that reflects Coushatta’s local identity. Community involvement will be a key part of the process, ensuring the finished piece represents the voices and creativity of the area.

 The Coushatta Chute Chapter invites community members to follow the progress of the mural and take part in upcoming activities related to the project. Additional details, including the mural’s location, artist selection, and unveiling date, will be announced in the coming months.

For more information about the mural or to get involved, please contact the Coushatta Chute Chapter DAR.


RRPSB seeking certified high school math teacher

The Red River Parish School Board is seeking a passionate and dedicated Certified High School Math Teacher for the upcoming school year. We are looking for an educator who is passionate about helping students master mathematical concepts and achieve academic success.

Qualifications: 

  • Valid Louisiana Teaching Certification (Secondary Mathematics 6-12).
  • Strong communication and classroom management skills.
  • A commitment to student achievement and data-driven instruction.

Responsibilities: 

  • Deliver high-quality instruction.
  • Develop engaging lesson plans aligned with Louisiana Student Standards.
  • Foster a positive classroom environment that encourages student growth and problem-solving.
What We Offer:
  • Highly competitive salary
  • Comprehensive benefits package and TRSL retirement.
  • A supportive professional learning community.

 

Interested applicants should apply through the Red River Parish School Board website (www.rrbulldogs.com) or contact Nicole Eason, Human Resources for more information.

Deadline to apply is May 1, 2026.


A bait that turned the bass fishing world upside down

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-H Achievement Day 2026

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


Stormy and cooler for the weekend

The Cruciform Groove

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 approves new ELA standards with stronger focus on reading, grammar, and cursive

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.


DCFS new customer service number now active

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.


This & That…Friday, April 17, 2026

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.

Northwestern State University Theatre and Dance and the Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Orchestra will present “She Loves Me” April 23-25 in the A.A. Fredericks Auditorium. Performance times are 7:30pm each evening with a 2pm matinee on April 25. Tickets are $15. NSU, Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts and NSU@BPCC students are admitted free. Tickets are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/she-loves-me-tickets-1984897142786?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse 

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


Notice of Death – April 16, 2026

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


Coushatta Native Kevin Coleman Named to Louisiana Aviation Hall of Fame Class of 2026

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.


School Board Meeting Today

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


Late-season flurry not enough as Red River not in baseball playoffs

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.


Red River Parish Library News

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


Warm temps continue

 

House Committee advances Louisiana Budget Plan, Capital Outlay Bill

A major step was taken this week in the state budget process as the Louisiana House Appropriations Committee approved House Bill 1, the main state operating budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026.

The budget proposal, authored by Rep. Jack McFarland of Jonesboro, totals about $47 billion and now moves to the full House for consideration. State lawmakers described the plan as one focused on fiscal restraint while still putting money toward education, workforce development, retirement debt, emergency reserves, and economic growth.

Supporters of the measure said the spending plan aims to keep Louisiana on stable financial footing without adding taxes. McFarland said the proposal puts an emphasis on investing in students and job preparation while also working to position the state for future industry growth.

Among the major items included in the budget plan are $420 million for early childhood education, full funding of the Minimum Foundation Program for K-12 schools, and an increase in per-student operational funding for school districts. Under the proposal, that amount would rise from $100 to $147 per student to help districts cover costs such as fuel, insurance, utilities, and retirement expenses.

The budget bill also includes $87 million for the LA GATOR scholarship program, $47 million for Louisiana Economic Development to support new projects and business recruitment, $50 million to replenish emergency reserves, and a $144 million surplus payment to LASERS to help reduce state retirement debt.

House Speaker Phillip DeVillier said the budget reflects an effort to strengthen education from early childhood through higher education while also sending a message that Louisiana wants to compete for industries that could shape the state’s future economy.

In addition to the operating budget, the House Ways and Means Committee also approved House Bill 2, the state’s capital outlay bill, which covers construction funding. Lawmakers said that proposal keeps project funding within the state’s borrowing capacity and below available surplus levels.

Supporters of the capital outlay plan said it also includes a new approach to bundling project funding so money can be shifted more efficiently between projects that come in under budget and those that need additional support. Rep. Tony Bacala of Prairieville, chairman of House Ways and Means, said the measure continues the Legislature’s effort to be careful with taxpayer dollars while moving funding away from long-dormant projects and toward those ready to move forward.

The full House is expected to consider HB1, HB2, and other related funding bills on Thursday, April 16, as lawmakers continue work on the budget during the 2026 Regular Legislative Session, which is set to end June 1.