Christmas came early for one Red River Parish student who had just three minutes to fill a shopping cart with as many gifts as possible.

Eight-year-old Tommy Anderson, an honor roll student at Red River Elementary School, was selected as the first winner of the 2026 KTBS 3-Minute Smile holiday shopping program.

Tommy earned the opportunity after bringing home an outstanding report card. His reward was a trip to Walmart, where he had 180 seconds to race through the aisles and grab items from his Christmas wish list.

Before the clock started, Tommy had a few things in mind. He hoped to pick up a hoverboard and a Nerf gun, but he also wanted to make sure his siblings received Christmas presents.

Once the countdown began, Tommy wasted no time making his way through the toy department, gathering gifts as quickly as he could.

When the three minutes were up, his shopping cart held $1,488.83 worth of merchandise, giving him nearly $1,500 in Christmas gifts to take home.

The shopping spree was made possible by Aire Serv, which sponsored Tommy’s participation in the annual KTBS holiday tradition.

The 3-Minute Smile program gives children throughout the Ark-La-Tex an opportunity to enjoy a memorable Christmas shopping experience, with local businesses helping make the special moments possible.

For Tommy, his hard work in the classroom paid off in a big way. And while the shopping spree was certainly exciting, his desire to include his siblings made the experience even more special.

KTBS 3 News featured Tommy’s shopping adventure. Readers can watch the segment at KTBS.com.

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The spirit of community and cooperation is alive and well in Coushatta as the Town of Coushatta, Coushatta Red River Chamber of Commerce, and Red River Tourism Commission join together to provide funding for much-needed repairs and improvements to the stage and Santa House located on Front Street.

These Front Street landmarks play an important role in many of Coushatta’s community celebrations and special events. The stage hosts entertainment and community events throughout the year, and the Santa House has become a cherished part of the town’s Christmas traditions, making memories for local children and families during the holiday season.

Understanding the value of maintaining and enhancing these community assets, the three organizations joined together to pool resources and provide the funding necessary to make needed repairs. “The partnership is a great example of what can be accomplished when local organizations come together for a common cause.

The upgrades will help ensure that the stage and Santa House continue to be safe, attractive and welcoming spaces for residents and visitors. “This project is an investment in Front Street and the events and traditions that bring people together in downtown Coushatta, as well as addressing immediate repair needs.”

These kinds of community spaces do more than give downtown a nice look. They provide a place for residents to meet, they support local events and businesses, and they welcome visitors to the area and help preserve the traditions that make Coushatta and Red River Parish special.

The Town of Coushatta, Coushatta Red River Chamber of Commerce and Red River Tourism Commission are working together and it’s a great example of local organizations coming together and pooling their efforts and resources for the benefit of the entire community.

As repairs are made, the refurbished stage and Santa House will continue to be a center point for celebrations on Front Street and a reminder of the pride, partnership and community spirit that can be found throughout Coushatta and Red River Parish.

We can preserve our traditions, strengthen our community and keep Front Street a welcoming place for generations to come.

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Judy Covington gets the win by tiebreaker and walks away with the final $100!

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

We also want to thank BOM, Red River Parish Library, 4B Garage, Bethard & Bethard, Red River Land Specialties, Jimmy Keel-Greg Tilley’s and Tray Murray-State Farm for their Pick’em Partnerships within the contest.

Another season of Football Pick’em has come to an end! From surprising upsets to games decided by just a few points, this year’s contest kept everyone guessing until the final whistle. We appreciate everyone who joined in the fun each week and helped make the competition another success. Thanks for playing along, and we look forward to doing it all again next football season!

Congrats again to all the 2025 weekly winners:

Week 1: Ken Mangham
Week 2: Elizabeth Perkins
Week 3: Richard Kaufman
Week 4: Nicholaus Grigg
Week 5: Sarah Holland
Week 6: Ethan Squires
Week 7: Chardrick Hardy
Week 8: Michael Antilley
Week 9: David Martin
Week 10: Judy Covington

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College football is preparing for one of its most significant changes in decades. The College Football Playoff will double in size beginning with the 2027 season, while the Southeastern Conference has announced that this year’s SEC Championship Game will be its last.

The College Football Playoff Management Committee unanimously approved the expansion from 12 to 24 teams on Monday, November 9. The decision comes alongside a new five-year broadcasting agreement with ESPN reportedly worth nearly $1.7 billion.

Under the new format, 24 teams will compete for the national championship, creating more opportunities for schools across the country to reach the postseason.

The expanded field will include the champions of the SEC, ACC, Big Ten and Big 12, along with the highest-ranked team from six other conferences. The remaining 19 spots will go to the highest-ranked eligible teams selected by the College Football Playoff committee.

The top eight seeds will receive first-round byes, while teams seeded ninth through 24th will compete in opening-round games. Both the first and second rounds will be played on college campuses, giving more schools an opportunity to host postseason games in front of their home crowds.

The expanded playoff will feature 23 games, with the quarterfinals and semifinals continuing to rotate among the traditional major bowl locations, including the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans.

For LSU and other SEC programs, the changes could mean additional opportunities to compete for a national championship, even without winning the conference.

However, the expansion also brings an end to one of college football’s most recognizable traditions.

The SEC confirmed that its December 5, 2026, championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta will be the final edition of the event. The game began in 1992 and helped establish the conference championship format that became a major part of college football.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey described the championship game as a defining event that has produced memorable moments and helped shape the sport for more than three decades.

The conference will still determine an SEC champion each season, but it will no longer do so through a separate championship game.

The 2026 season will continue under the current 12-team playoff format, with the national championship scheduled for January 25, 2027, in Las Vegas.

The first 24-team playoff will begin in December 2027, with the national championship scheduled for January 24, 2028, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.

The changes mark a major shift in college football, replacing traditional conference championship games with a larger national playoff and giving fans more postseason matchups to look forward to.

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I know many of us are surprised and disappointed about the Congressional midterm elections and I offer a more hopeful perspective.

First, the midterm elections for the party whose president is in the White House are almost always a defeat.  A Republican in the White House means the Democrats gain seats in the midterms and the reverse is true as well.  So, as disappointed as we may be, what we saw last Tuesday is the norm.

However, I suggest an historical example of how quickly things can change.  Recall that in 2008 President Barack Obama was elected president. Between 2008 and 2010 there arose such opposition to Obama policies that the Tea Party formed, and in the 2010 midterm elections numerous Tea Party candidates were elected to Congress, giving the majority back to Republicans.

Second, over the next two years no “bad” legislation is going to become law because President Trump will veto it and it takes a 2/3rds majority vote of both houses to override a presidential veto.  That is a heavy lift and unlikely to occur.  In addition, President Trump also retains the power to unilaterally issue executive orders regarding matters of policy he thinks necessitates them.

Third, many voters cited the high cost of gas/living as a reason they didn’t support Republican candidates.  Well, that problem is going to be addressed in short order because those higher costs are largely due to the issue with Iran and now President Trump has no constraints on how he handles Iran.

Once Iran is resolved, I think the cost of living will fall to levels it was before the conflict, but I still believe President Trump’s handling of Iran has been correct, and history will vindicate him on this point. The murderous, theocratic Iranian regime cannot ever be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon.  If it did, there would then be no Israel, no Europe and, ultimately, it would threaten the United States.

Fourth, regarding the presidential election of 2028, I think the Republican bench of candidates is much stronger.  Whether the candidate is VP J.D.  Vance, Sec. of State Marco Rubio, Gov. Ron Desantis or Sen. Ted Cruz, they all outshine California governor Gavin Newsome, former VP Kamala Harris, or former Sec. of Transportation, Pete Buttegieg.

Fifth, Democrats will have majorities in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate next year and will no doubt use their oversight powers to “investigate” President Trump, his family, many administration officials, and beyond.  However, while House and Senate committees possess subpoena power, whatever actions that are taken will be without the assistance of the Trump Department of Justice, Attorney General or FBI.

If the effort is made to impeach Trump again it will fail because it is very unlikely that 2/3rds of the Senate, i.e. 67 senators, will vote to remove President Trump. That would also be a great waste of time as he won’t be running for president again.

I note that a number of self-described Democrat Socialists of America (DSA) candidates have now been elected and will be serving in the U.S. Congress, and that is concerning.

All I can glean is that many who voted for them simply don’t understand what DSA “values” really are, or, they are immigrants (illegals ?) who never intended to assimilate and simply don’t share the American ideal including the rights and liberties enunciated in the Declaration of Independence and guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution. Perhaps young people voted for DSA candidates because for several decades Leftist professors at American colleges and universities have been denouncing the “evils” of capitalism while praising the supposed “fairness” and “equity” of socialism. Fortunately, so-called Diversity, Inclusion and Equity (DIE) is being driven out of American classrooms and much of business and industry.

However, the answer is having patriotic candidates rise up and challenge these newly elected Leftists and the next election could well flip everything back! So, we must re-dedicate ourselves to working as hard as we can to ensure that the pendulum does in fact swing back, including winning the Presidency in 2028.

In the meantime, we should never lose hope because This is America at 250 years!  There is no place like it. We survived the Revolutionary War, The Civil War, World Wars I and II, the Twentieth Century, Vietnam, Watergate, civil unrest, assassinations, and the Middle East nightmare to name a few of the obstacles we’ve overcome.

Let’s say a prayer for America, and let’s get to work!

Royal Alexander

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N-Side View Day invites high school juniors, seniors, and their families to explore Northwestern State University on Saturday, Nov. 14.

By Cole Gentry, Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University

Choosing a college is a big decision. You want a degree that prepares you for a career, professors who care about your success, and a campus where you feel at home. But how do you know if a university is right for you?

Sometimes, you need to see it for yourself.

On Saturday, Nov. 14, Northwestern State University will host N-Side View Day, giving high school juniors, seniors, and their parents an opportunity to experience campus life and get answers to their questions about college.

During the event, you’ll have opportunities to explore academic programs, meet faculty and current students, tour campus and learn about scholarships, financial aid, and admissions.

It’s also a chance to ask questions that matter to your future. What careers can I pursue with this degree? Will I get hands-on experience? Who will help me if I’m struggling in class? What is student life like?

For parents, the visit offers an opportunity to learn about college costs, available support, and the resources that help students succeed.

At NSU, our goal is simple: A degree that leads somewhere. We help students build career skills, gain real-world experience, and get support from people who know their names and care about their goals.

You don’t need to have your entire future figured out before visiting. Come explore your options, meet the people who will help you along the way, and see if Northwestern feels right for you.

N-Side View Day takes place Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches. Register today at nsu.la/nsideview.

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Louisiana’s first recreational alligator hunting season has wrapped up, and state wildlife officials are calling it a success. More than 3,600 hunters participated in the inaugural season, harvesting 1,817 alligators across the state.

According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), the season ran from October 1 through October 31, 2026, and included all eight designated hunting zones. A total of 3,606 hunters participated, with harvested alligators averaging 7.5 feet in length.

The new recreational season gave Louisiana residents an opportunity to hunt alligators through a lottery-based system, separate from the state’s long-established commercial alligator industry.

Under the program, eligible Louisiana residents applied for hunting opportunities in designated zones. Successful applicants received two nontransferable alligator tags for each zone awarded. Hunters were also required to obtain the appropriate licenses and have permission to hunt on the property.

Years of wildlife conservation efforts restored Louisiana’s alligator population and made the recreational season possible. State officials estimate that more than 3 million alligators now live in Louisiana, allowing for a carefully managed recreational harvest without threatening the species or the existing commercial industry.

The state’s commercial alligator industry remains an important part of Louisiana’s economy, contributing more than $250 million annually.

Governor Jeff Landry praised the inaugural season, calling it an exciting opportunity for Louisiana families to enjoy the state’s outdoor traditions.

LDWF Secretary Tyler Bosworth also celebrated the program’s successful launch, recognizing the work of department employees who helped make the new hunting opportunity possible.

With the first season complete, wildlife officials are already making preparations for a second recreational alligator season in 2027.

For Louisiana hunters, the new program provides another opportunity to engage in the state’s outdoor heritage and to support ongoing wildlife management and conservation.

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If I had been Moses, I would have asked whether I could put my shoes back on before we discussed my future. A man makes better decisions, I figure, when he has his shoes on.

In the third chapter of Exodus, Moses is tending his father-in-law’s sheep when he notices a bush on fire that won’t burn up. He goes over for a closer look. God calls his name. Moses says, “Here I am.” So far, so good. Then God tells him to take off his sandals. He’s standing on holy ground.

God has heard the cries of his people in Egypt and tells Moses he’s sending him to Pharaoh to bring them out. Moses asks, “Who am I?” Later he wonders what to say, what to do if nobody believes him, and whether God has considered the fact that public speaking is an area in which Moses has considerable room for growth. By the next chapter, Moses is asking God to send somebody else.

I understand Moses. I’ve been in enough church meetings to know that “Here I am” and “I’ll do it” are two entirely different items on the agenda.

We have made “yes, but” an art form. At church, we say, “Yes, we need more young families, but those children do make a lot of noise.” At home, we say, “Yes, we ought to get together,” and spend the next seventeen messages in the family group chat establishing that nobody can do Thursday. We want somebody to fix the traffic in Ruston, preferably without moving a single orange barrel into our lane.

My favorite “yes, but” comes when somebody suggests we try something new at church. “Yes, but we tried that once.” Ask when, and you’ll find out it was in 1987, three people came, and one of them was there to fix the ice machine. The matter is considered settled.

There are times when the person who says “yes, but” saves everybody a great deal of trouble. If I’m about to back over your mailbox, please feel free to interrupt. And Moses had good reason to be scared. He knew what Pharaoh could do. Still, I know how easily I can turn a reasonable concern into a comfortable place to sit. Give me ten minutes and a legal pad and I can make a pretty good case for leaving a good thing to somebody else.

What I love about the story is God’s answer to Moses’ first question. Moses asks, “Who am I?” God says, “I will be with you.” God knows who he’s talking to. He knows Moses is scared, and there are people in Egypt who have been crying out long enough.

The thing in front of us this week may be smaller than a trip to Pharaoh’s palace. Maybe there’s a neighbor we’ve been meaning to check on. “Yes, but I wouldn’t know what to say.” You could knock and start with “How are you?” Then stay long enough to hear the answer.

If it helps, you can leave your shoes on.

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Getting children to school on time is more than a matter of following school rules. Under Louisiana law, repeated unexcused tardiness can lead to consequences for parents, including fines or community service.

Louisiana Revised Statute 17:233 addresses habitual absences and tardiness among school-age children. Under the law, students can be considered habitually tardy after five unexcused late arrivals within a school semester.

However, parents do not automatically receive a fine when their child reaches five tardies. Schools must follow procedures designed to notify families, address attendance concerns, and provide opportunities to correct the problem.

After a student’s third unexcused tardy, the school is required to notify the parent or guardian and arrange a conference to discuss the attendance issue. If the student continues to arrive late without an acceptable excuse, additional action may follow.

For parents of students in kindergarten through eighth grade, a first offense can result in a fine of up to $50 or at least 25 hours of community service. Additional violations can carry more serious consequences.

The law also addresses students who repeatedly leave school early without an acceptable excuse. Unexcused early departures may be counted toward habitual tardiness.

Importantly, this is not a new law. Louisiana has had compulsory school attendance requirements for many years, and the statute has been amended over time.

For families, the key is understanding that not every late arrival is necessarily considered unexcused. Parents should communicate with their child’s school about illnesses, appointments, transportation difficulties, or other circumstances that may affect attendance. Whether an absence or tardy is excused depends on applicable state requirements and school attendance procedures.

Regular attendance and arriving on time help students avoid missing important instruction. Families who are experiencing ongoing difficulties getting their children to school are encouraged to contact school officials before the problem becomes more serious.

Parents can review the law by visiting the Louisiana Legislature’s website and searching for Louisiana Revised Statute 17:233.

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Riverdale Academy is calling on Rebel fans to show their school spirit for the Red Out basketball game on Saturday, November 14! Fans are encouraged to wear red and pack the student section as the Rebels and Lady Rebels take the court. Students and supporters are also invited to wear Rebel red on Friday, November 13, to help build excitement for the big game.

Santa Claus is coming to Hall Summit! Families are invited to bring the children to Hall Summit Town Hall on Saturday, December 5, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a special visit with Santa. Bring your Christmas smiles and cameras for pictures and a chance to make some holiday memories!

LSU Women’s Basketball is coming to Natchitoches on Sunday, December 6, to take on Northwestern State University! Fans are invited to a special pregame tailgate from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Prather Coliseum before the Tigers face the Lady Demons. The first 100 ticket purchasers will receive an exclusive poster autographed by the 2026–27 LSU women’s basketball team.

Castor High School is getting ready for its annual Reindeer Run on Thursday, December 10, 2026! The school track will light up for this festive holiday tradition. Mark your calendars and get ready for an evening of Christmas fun. Reindeer Run T-shirt sales will begin soon.

The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) has suspended 23 football players following Saturday’s postgame brawl between Grambling State and Arkansas-Pine Bluff, including 14 Grambling players. Grambling State was also fined $25,000 for its involvement in the altercation.

Buc-ee’s is now accepting job applications for its upcoming Ruston location. The popular travel center chain has begun recruiting employees for several positions, including management opportunities, as preparations continue for the new store. Those interested in joining the Buc-ee’s team can view available positions and apply online at careers.buc-ees.com.

Tesla plans to wind down production of its Cybertruck around the middle of 2027, according to an announcement from CEO Elon Musk. The company will shift manufacturing space at its Texas factory toward increased production of the Cybercab, its planned self-driving vehicle. The futuristic stainless-steel pickup, introduced in 2023, has struggled to attract buyers despite considerable attention surrounding its launch. According to reports, Cybertruck sales dropped 48% from 2024 to 2025 and declined another 28% during the first nine months of 2026. The announcement signals a major change in Tesla’s vehicle production priorities.

Charlie Woods, the son of golf legend Tiger Woods, has officially signed to play collegiate golf at Florida State University. The high school senior will join the Seminoles men’s golf team in the fall of 2027. Charlie has followed in his father’s footsteps, competing in junior golf tournaments and gaining national attention for his performances on the course.

Republicans elect Ohio’s Jim Jordan as House Minority Leader over Louisiana’s Steve Scalise.

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Steven Craig “Stevie” Waggoner
December 8, 1964 — November 5, 2026
Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 12pm at Creston Baptist Church in Creston.

Kenneth Guy Mathews
October 12, 1942 — November 7, 2026
Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 1pm at Rockett Funeral Home Chapel in Ringgold.

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Several Red River Parish organizations will come together Monday, November 9, to honor veterans buried at Springville Cemetery in Coushatta.

The Coushatta Chute Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is partnering with VFW Post 7287, Springville Cemetery, Red River High School, and CBS Home Express & More to place American flags on more than 275 veterans’ graves in recognition of Veterans Day.

Volunteers will gather at Springville Cemetery at 9:00 a.m. to place flags for veterans in remembrance of their military service. The local Ace Hardware store, CBS Home Express & More, donated the flags.

VFW Commander Barry McCoy, Cindy Coffey, and Virginia Webb will lead the volunteers in the effort.

The project brings together veterans, students, and community members to recognize the men and women who served our country. Each flag will remind us of a life dedicated, in part, to protecting the freedoms Americans enjoy today.

Veterans Day is Wednesday, November 11. As we recognize those who have served, take a moment to thank a veteran, listen to their story, or remember someone who is no longer with us.

A simple thank-you is a meaningful way to honor their service.

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The Red River Parish School Board honored their Students of the Month for October last Wednesday at the school board meeting.

Fourth grade teachers selected Sage Demery as the Elementary Student of the Month. They said, “Sage consistently demonstrates kindness, responsibility, and a strong commitment to learning. She is always willing to help others, works hard, and takes pride in doing her best. Sage welcomes feedback, learns from it, and consistently displays a positive growth mindset.”

The Red River Middle School Student of the Month is Richard Phillips. His teachers described him as “truly a blessing to have in the classroom.” Each day, he brightens the room with his warm smile, cheerful spirit, and heartfelt hugs that make everyone feel valued. His kindness is genuine, and his positive attitude is contagious. Richard comes to school eager to learn and always gives his best. He takes pride in his work, encourages his classmates, and is always willing to lend a helping hand.”

Jessica Williams was selected as Student of the Month from Red River High. Her teachers described Jessica as “a kind, hardworking and respectful student who consistently brings positivity to our school.” She has a caring heart and is always willing to lend a helping hand, support her classmates, and get involved in school activities. Jessica approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm, dedication, and a strong desire to do her best. Her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to serve others make her a wonderful role model for her peers.”

Each year students from schools in the parish are selected by their teachers to be the Student of the Month. Joining Superintendent Alison Strong and the students honored are Michael Braswell and John Brewer representing the local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post. Each student is presented a certificate and gift card. The Student of the Month program is sponsored by Coushatta VFW Post and Auxiliary 7287 and Lott Oil/Shop-A-Lott.

Submitted by John Brewer, VFW Post 7287

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Matt Vines

SHREVEPORT – When Loyola College Prep scampered for a 55-yard touchdown run early in their first possession, none would have blamed the Bulldogs to accept their fate and stop fighting.

But Red River (1-9) didn’t do that, punching back with a touchdown of their own to tie the score at 8-8 in the first quarter.

The Loyola deluge did come as the Flyers scored five straight touchdowns in the first half, and 34-point halftime lead turned into a 56-20 win.

Quarterback Bryce Restovich and his stable of weapons proved too much for a defense that did slow down a similar offense in their lone win against Logansport this season.

The loss sealed Red River’s playoff fate as the Bulldogs will miss the postseason for the first time since 2012.

Red River faced a formidable schedule in which every opponent made the playoffs, including the majority that will host a playoff game.

The Bulldogs showed that they had early punches at times, building leads against the likes of Class 4A Tioga and Class 5A Parkway among others.

But a lack of depth on a roster of 28 players plus the injury bug limited Red River’s ability to stay in games for four quarters.

The biggest injury came before the season even started as quarterback Landon Wilson went down and missed more than the first half of the season.

Quarterback Ashton Johnson filled in admirably as the junior made plays with his arm and his legs, gaining valuable experience.

Wilson did return and make an impact as a receiver and a running back, adding to weapons like Lathyn Lewis and Christopher Hackett.

At least Lewis should be represented on the all-district team because of his ability to score from anywhere on the field and may even be an All-State candidate despite Red River’s team record.

Pieces like Lewis and Johnson return, but Red River will lose nine seniors this year.

Red River will go back to the drawing board this offseason and try to figure out a way to limit rushing yards allowed and run the ball better themselves.

The schedule won’t change in the second year of a two-year cycle, so the Bulldogs must rise to the occasion.

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Riverdale Academy has provided the following additions to its first nine weeks honor rolls. These students were inadvertently omitted from the original list.

A HONOR ROLL

CARTER BREEDLOVE
KENNA COLEMAN
ADDISON NETTLES
KANDYN NETTLES
MADDISON NETTLES
ANSLEY PROCELL
JONATHAN SHAVER

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According to multiple reports, a remarkable discovery in south Louisiana is offering scientists a new glimpse into the state’s prehistoric past after a landowner uncovered fossilized mammoth remains on his property in Acadia Parish.

Curt Matte made the discovery while digging a pond and contacted researchers at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette for help identifying the fossils.

Dr. Jennifer Hargrave, director of the university’s Science Museum and a paleontologist, confirmed that the remains include portions of a mammoth’s lower jaw and teeth, along with what researchers believe may be tusks. Scientists suspect additional bones could still be buried at the site.

The discovery is particularly significant because mammoth fossils are relatively uncommon in southern Louisiana. During the Ice Age, the region was home to enormous mammals, including mammoths, mastodons and giant ground sloths.

Researchers hope the newly discovered fossils will help them better understand the animals that once roamed Louisiana and the prehistoric environments in which they lived.

The exact age of the remains has not yet been determined, and further research is expected as scientists continue examining the discovery.

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Red River Parish Schools will be closed Wednesday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day. The district joins the community in honoring the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Schools will reopen Thursday, November 12.

Man Church will take place Thursday, November 12, at 6 p.m. at The SHOP, located at 1942 Highway 507 in Coushatta. The evening will feature a free jambalaya meal, music, and an encouraging message from guest speaker Steve Pettey, pastor of Social Springs Baptist Church. All men are invited to attend for an evening of food, fellowship, and faith.

The first Mighty Machines Day will be held Saturday, Nov. 14, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Parc Natchitoches. The family-friendly event will give children opportunities to explore fire trucks, police vehicles, ambulances, construction equipment and other large machines while meeting the professionals who operate them. Admission is $25 per vehicle, with no advance registration required. A quieter, reduced-activity period is scheduled from 3 to 4 p.m. The event will support the future Cane River Discovery Center. Food trucks and hands-on activities are also planned.

Downtown Minden is getting ready to sparkle this holiday season with Christmas in Minden, November 20 through January 1. Visitors can enjoy ice skating at The Rink, festive holiday markets, carriage rides, hayrides, visits with Santa, live entertainment, and plenty of Christmas lights. Special events include the official tree-lighting ceremony on November 20, the Christmas Parade on December 10, and the Christmas in Minden kickoff celebration on November 20. Holiday home tours, shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities will continue throughout the season.

Get ready for some holiday shopping at the 22nd Annual Fleur de Lis Christmas Craft Market on Saturday, November 28, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Natchitoches Events Center, located at 750 Second Street in Natchitoches. Shoppers can browse a variety of unique crafts, handmade gifts, and holiday treasures while getting into the Christmas spirit. Admission is free

Northwestern State University’s Dear School of Creative and Performing Arts will present its 38th annual Christmas Gala Dec. 2-4 in A.A. Fredericks Auditorium. Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Dec. 2-3 and 7 and 9 p.m. Dec. 4. More than 300 students, faculty and staff will participate under the direction of Dr. Shane Thomas.Celebrating the 100th Natchitoches Christmas Festival, the production will feature orchestral music, choirs, ballet, hip-hop, Toy Soldiers, Rockettes and percussion performances. Tickets are $15 plus fees. NSU, BPCC@NSU and LSMSA students are admitted free with a valid student ID.

Emmy Award-winning actress Jasmine Guy, best known for her iconic role as Whitley Gilbert on the hit television series A Different World, will deliver the keynote address at Grambling State University’s Fall 2026 Commencement. Guy has enjoyed a celebrated career in television, film, theater, music, and directing. The ceremony will take place Friday, December 4, at 10 a.m. in the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center. For additional graduation information, visit gram.edu/graduation.

The 2026 Kennedy Center Honors will recognize five entertainment legends: Paul Anka, Barbara Mandrell, Andy Garcia, David Foster, and David Mamet. The ceremony is scheduled for December 7, 2026, at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. The annual celebration recognizes individuals whose contributions to the performing arts have made a lasting impact on American culture.

LIV Golf is officially winding down operations after five years and more than $5 billion in investment. Attorneys for the Saudi-backed professional golf league confirmed Thursday, November 5, that the organization will move toward liquidation following its September bankruptcy filing. Plans to relaunch the league in 2027 collapsed after investment firm BC Partners withdrew a proposed $300 million financing deal. LIV Golf, which launched in 2022 as a rival to the PGA Tour, is expected to begin the process of selling its remaining assets on November 9, subject to bankruptcy court proceedings.

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John Perry Bamburg
April 8, 1937 — November 5, 2026
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 11am at Liberty Baptist Church in Martin.

Steven Craig “Stevie” Waggoner
December 8, 1964 — November 5, 2026
Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 11. Additional details will be posted when available.

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The Red River Fire District has announced that the burn ban in Red River Parish has officially been lifted.

Fire officials thanked residents for their patience, understanding, and cooperation while the ban was in effect. The district issued approximately 60 burn permits during that time, with no incidents reported.

Although outdoor burning is now permitted, the Fire District reminds residents to continue practicing fire safety. Never leave a fire unattended, keep water or firefighting equipment nearby, avoid burning during windy or extremely dry conditions, and make sure all fires are completely extinguished before leaving the area.

The Red River Fire District expressed appreciation to the community for following the guidelines and helping keep the parish safe throughout the burn ban.

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The Red River Parish Library Board of Control met Thursday, November 5, with much of the discussion focused on bringing more residents into the library and expanding services throughout the parish.

Board members present were Mike Waters, Sharon Jenkins, Kathy McDuffy, Karen Squires, and Merrit Cason. The meeting opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.

Under old business, the board was informed of a special training session scheduled for November 14 at 9 a.m. Topics will include open meeting laws, records management, employee background checks, and drug testing requests.

Acting Director Dr. Mary Adkins reported that approximately 250 children visited the library during Halloween activities.

In new business, the board approved purchasing security cameras for both the interior and exterior of the library. Members also approved an LED sign for the front of the building, with the Red River Parish Police Jury assisting with installation.

A lively discussion followed on ways to reach more residents and encourage greater library use. Ideas included a community survey to gather suggestions, movie nights, community gardens featuring Louisiana native plants, participation in the Christmas parade, and “Adulting 101” classes to teach practical life skills.

The board also discussed expanding library access beyond the main building. Board President Mike Waters will research the feasibility of satellite library locations, while Karen Squires will explore mobile library options.

Adkins closed with news that library staff is planning a gaming night for parish teenagers, featuring a gaming truck in the library parking lot.

The board will continue reviewing the proposed programs and outreach options as it considers ways to expand library services and increase participation throughout Red River Parish.

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