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Prepare for a journey into the heart of darkness as the Dark Woods Haunted Attraction roars back to life in October at Dark Woods Adventure Park. This highly anticipated event promises to deliver unforgettable terror and heart-pounding fun for thrill-seekers of all ages.

This year’s event features the return of the notorious “Buried Alive!” experience, a solo virtual reality burial simulator that pushes the boundaries of fear. Visitors will be plunged into total darkness, lying in a sealed coffin as they endure their own chilling funeral. The experience is designed to test even the bravest souls, ensuring a truly unforgettable night of horror.

Beyond “Buried Alive!”, the Dark Woods Haunted Attraction promises a deep dive into the bloody and disturbing past of Hickory Ridge. The veil between worlds will be at its thinnest, unleashing nightmares that rule the darkness. Visitors will be immersed in a world of terror, confronting the evil that lurks just beyond the edge of town.

Additionally, Dark Woods Haunted Attraction unveils a brand new attraction “Alice’s Madhouse in 3D: Descent”. Step into an asylum where the boundaries of reality twist like Wonderland itself. Experience the madness in vivid 3D Chroma-Depth, a hauntingly immersive journey where nothing is as it seems. The only attraction of its kind in Louisiana, this descent into madness will leave you questioning what’s real and what’s nightmare.

“We’re incredibly excited to bring back the Dark Woods Haunted Attraction for another year of unforgettable scares,” said Jason Summerlin, Owner/Operator of Dark Woods Adventure Park. “Our team has worked tirelessly to create an experience that will push visitors to their limits and leave them screaming for more. Whether you’re a horror fan or just looking for a unique night out, this event is not to be missed.”

Don’t miss your chance to face your fears and experience the ultimate night of horror. Secure your tickets now for the Dark Woods Haunted Attraction at darkwoodshaunt.com, opening on October 4th at Dark Woods Adventure Park in Natchitoches.

About Dark Woods Adventure Park
Dark Woods Adventure Park is a family-friendly outdoor destination in Natchitoches, LA, featuring a variety of activities and attractions from March to December. In addition to the Dark Woods Haunted Attraction, the park offers seasonal events, delicious food, retail shops, and outdoor activities like gem mining and mini-golf. Whether you’re looking for a day of fun or a weekend getaway, Dark Woods Adventure Park has something for everyone.

NATCHITOCHES – Mike McConathy – coach, servant-leader, mentor and ambassador – is returning to Northwestern State University to serve as a special advisor to new President James Genovese.

McConathy will utilize his skills in fostering relationships and his vast professional network to reinforce recruiting and external support for the university, serving as a key contact with high school personnel, coaches and the numerous colleagues, families and individuals he impacted over 40 years of coaching.

McConathy has already begun visiting nearby high schools to improve or rekindle relationships but said the groundswell should begin locally.

“It’s important that we start in Natchitoches. We have over 4,800 graduates in Natchitoches, and we’ve got to get more of them excited about our school,” McConathy said. “I want to reengage alumni to let them know Northwestern appreciates them. They can help us communicate the positive.”

McConathy’s long career as a successful basketball coach – including 23 record-shattering years at Northwestern, his parents’ alma mater – brought him many accolades over the years but he is just as well-known as a role model engaged in community service, often during his tenure weed-eating or power washing facilities or volunteering to drive other teams to competition when no one else was available.

A self-described people person, he has been deeply involved since his Airline High School days in Fellowship of Christian Athletes. During his five-decade collegiate coaching career, McConathy used athletics as a vehicle to instill confidence, discipline and a sense of purpose in others, while reaching throughout communities and high schools around Louisiana with positive messaging.

The conversations advocating Northwestern are already taking place.

“In Shreveport and Bossier, for example, there are large high schools where our alumni are working in the school,” McConathy said. “Our focus is to work with the Office of Recruiting in places where we are currently getting about 150 students and we should be getting more.”

Genovese said the relationships that McConathy developed with coaches, players and educators over the years will translate well into outreach to future Northwestern students, their parents and teachers.

“Coach McConathy’s outgoing, authentic nature and relatability resonates with people,” Genovese said. “Throughout his career, he supported many students and staff on their personal and professional journeys. His experience will be important in building relationships with stakeholders. We’re very happy to

have him back on our team.”
Information for future Northwestern State students is available at http://www.nsu.la/explore.

Leah Jackson
Director of Public Information and Media Relations
Northwestern State University

World Mental Health Day was Thursday, October 10, 2024

Today, on World Mental Health Day, we are reminded, as we should be every day, of the profound importance of mental wellbeing, not just for individuals but for the strength and health of our communities.

Our mental well-being is the foundation upon which we build our lives, healthy relationships, and meaningful education and work. It is essential that we recognize the interconnectedness of individual and community health and understand that true well-being is only achieved when we all have access to the care and support we need.

This day serves as a call to action to prioritize mental health and wellbeing as a critical component of a healthy and thriving Louisiana. At LPHI, we are committed to fostering environments, both within our organization and in the broader community, where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to seek help without fear of stigma. We believe there is no wrong door or wrong person to approach for support.

Together, we can create a future where mental health and wellbeing are not afterthoughts or additions but integral components of individual, organizational, and community health and success.

Shelina Davis, MPH, MSW
LPHI CEO

In 1962, 24-year-old junk dealer Luigi Lo Rosso was clearing out the cellar of a villa on the southern Italian island of Capri. As with anyone who is tasked with this sort of cleaning, Luigi had three basic categories of items; things to keep, things to throw away, and, most difficult of all, things he was unsure of. Luigi usually took only a few seconds to decide where to place each item. Then, Luigi found a rolled-up canvas. He quickly unrolled the painting and glanced at a distorted image of a woman. Luigi noticed a signature in the top left corner but did not recognize the artist’s name. As quickly as he had unrolled it, he rolled it back up. He placed it in the keep pile and kept sifting through the items in the cellar. Once finished with the task, Luigi returned to his home in Pompeii with the items he had deemed good enough to keep. He sold some of the items, usually “for next to nothing,” but not the distorted paining. He bought a cheap frame to hold the painting and mounted it to the wall. Luigi’s wife was less than impressed.

Two years later, Luigi and his wife had a son they named Andrea. As the boy grew up, he was always aware of the painting because his parents argued about it regularly. There were times when the family considered getting rid of the hideous painting. They considered throwing the painting away. “My mother didn’t want to keep it,” Andrea explained. “She kept saying it was horrible.” For some reason, the painting remained there on the wall of the Lo Rosso home. One day, Andrea’s aunt gave Andrea an encyclopedia of art history. Andrea immediately thought about the horrible painting on their wall. He flipped through the book and found a similar painting of a distorted lady. It appeared that the painting shown in the encyclopedia was of the same lady in the painting that had hung on their wall for decades. The paintings were not identical but had noticeable differences. The title of the painting in the book was “The Buste de Femme.” Andrea learned that the painting was a distorted image of the artist’s mistress, a French photographer and painter named Dora Maar. Andrea looked at the top left corner and realized that the signatures were almost identical. Andrea kept telling his father that the paintings were similar, and the signatures were similar, but Luigi remained unconvinced.

As the years turned into decades, Andrea remained curious about the painting. In 1999, the painting Andrea saw in the book, “the Buste de Femme,” was stolen from a luxury yacht belonging to Saudi billionaire Sheikh Abdul Mohsen Abdulmalik Al-Sheikh. Andrea thought about the painting that still hung on his family’s wall. Twenty years passed. Then, in March 2019, after a four-year search, Arthur Brand, known as the “Indiana Jones of the art world,” found and returned the stolen painting. Again, Andrea thought of the painting that his father had found all those years ago.

Andrea took the reins and sought the advice of the experts at the Arcadia Foundation, a company which specializes in attributions, restorations, and valuations of art works. Cinzia Altieri, a handwriting expert working at the Arcadia Foundation, confirmed the signature on the painting. After an intense investigation, Luca Marcante, president of the Arcadia Foundation, concluded that the painting that Luigi found amongst the junk in that cellar in 1962, which hung on Luigi’s wall in a cheap frame for more than six decades, is an original, authentic painting by Pablo Picasso. Its value has yet to be determined.

Sources:

1. Angela Giuffrida, “Painting found by junk dealer in cellar is original Picasso, experts claim,” The Guardian, October 1, 2024, accessed October 2, 2024, theguardian.com/artanddesign/2024/oct/01/painting-found-by-junk-dealer-in-cellar-is-original-picasso-experts-claim.

2. “Stolen Picasso portrait of Dora Maar found after 20 years,” BBC, March 26, 2019, Accessed October 2, 2024, bbc.com/news/world-europe-47704194.

Columbus Day 2024 is an annual observance that commemorates Christopher Columbus’s historic voyage to the Americas on October 12, 1492. This day celebrates the explorer’s arrival in the New World and the enduring impact of his journey on the course of history.  It recognizes the significance of his journey, which opened the door to European exploration and the eventual colonization of the Americas. Columbus Day is an occasion for reflection, exploration of cultural heritage, and festivities.

Columbus Day will be observed on Monday, October 14, 2024. The postal service will be closed as well as many banks and federal offices.

The history of Columbus Day dates back to the late 18th century when Italian-Americans began celebrating Christopher Columbus’s voyages as a way to honor their heritage and contributions to American society. In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed Columbus Day as a national holiday, recognizing its historical significance. 

While Columbus Day is celebrated in the United States, it is worth noting that its observance has evolved over time and is subject to debate and discussion regarding its historical context and impact on Indigenous communities.

Source: awarenessdays.com

Well, the day has arrived when one of the professional bass fishing organizations has made a major decision that will impact a lot of professional anglers both young and old. This decision was to ban forward-facing sonar. Finally, someone has grown a set and decided to level the playing field….or have they, and will it?

Let’s first look at who has decided to step up and save the sport of bass fishing as so many legendary pros think needs to be done. The NPFL (National Professional Fishing League) recently announced that forward-facing sonar will NOT be allowed for official practice or tournaments in 2025.

It will not be allowed for scouting (practice) or at any other time. It must be removed from your boat, along with the black box and the transducer. As one joyful pro angler said, “Time to go back to old school fishing!” No longer will anglers be able to look at bass on a screen like a version of Xbox and catch fish.

Is this good for the sport or is this decision holding the sport back? Well, the answer you get will depend upon what angler you ask. Majority of the old school guys will defend this decision and say “yes” it is good for the sport. Most compare this decision to the banning of the A-Rig (or umbrella rig) which many of the pros thought was an unethical way to catch bass by using more than one bait or hook. Old school anglers feel the same about forward-facing sonar in that it’s an unfair advantage for the anglers versus the fish.

I tend to agree with the old school anglers now that I’ve been a user of forward-facing sonar for the last two years and understand how it works. With this device, no fish is safe anywhere on any body of water. It allows anglers to select and zero in on the bigger bass in a school or swimming solo. This is not good for any fishery and could have lasting consequences as anglers do what I would call selective fishing by targeting larger bass.

Let’s face the facts with this electronic device. It has made champions out of anglers who have never won a tournament in their life. It’s become an equalizer or advantage for the younger or less experienced anglers that are fishing on the professional level. It has allowed them to not only compete but win with little to no experience compared to the guys that have paid their dues and taken years to acquire the knowledge they possess.

Nothing has leveled the playing field quicker for the younger generation of anglers more than forward-facing sonar. Anglers competing on the NPFL will have to rely on finding fish with more traditional ways by locating fish either by catching them or using side scan or down-imaging. No longer will they be able to just ride around on a body of water with three or more transducers and locate bass in real time.

While all organizations will not ban this new technology, there will be others that will follow. It’s still hard to understand how the three major electronic companies (Garmin, Humminbird and Lowrance) will move forward.

These companies will not sit on their hands and stop developing new technology. So, what’s next? Will the next advancement be banned as well? If so, how will these companies continue to survive without innovation and advancements in technology?

Here’s my perspective…. we can’t just continue to ban every new piece of technology that comes out! Tournament organizations need to adapt by altering the rules presently in place; rules that work for both boaters and co-anglers. At some point, they will have to figure out how to make forward-facing sonar and any future innovations work for the benefit of everyone.

But understand this, just because it’s banned on the professional level, does not mean it will be banned for the everyday angler or anglers fishing on the lower levels of competition.

I do agree that anglers on the professional level should be held to a higher standard; that’s why they’re called professionals. It’s the same reason Major League Baseball does not allow aluminum bats. Hitters would have too much of an advantage over pitchers and it would completely change the game.

But with regards to forward-facing sonar, only time will tell if it is doomed or if it will return. I personally think at some point, it will once again be allowed. Till next time, good luck, good fishing and take the time to enjoy some great fall fishing as lakes are less crowded now that hunting season is upon us.

Steve Graf

Riverdale Academy will host 2024 Homecoming tonight Friday, October 11. The night begins with an Alumni reception, with light refreshments, at 5:30pm. Classes honored include 1974, 1984, 1994, 2004, and 2014. The 2024 Homecoming Court presentation begins at 6pm. The game against Wilkinson County Christian Academy kicks off at 7pm. 

Lots of events happening across the area this weekend–from festivals to fairs, there’s something for everyone. Check one out:
50 Mile Trail of Treasure – from Stonewall, LA to Joaquin, TX (Hwy 171 to Hwy 84)
Rapides Parish Fair – Alexandria
Zwolle Tamale Fiesta – Zwolle
Farm to Forest Plein Air Festival – Alexandria
Prize Fest – Shreveport
TappedTober – Natchitoches
Springhill Lumberjack Festival – Springhill

Bailey’s Sandwich Shop will host John Smith, an Elvis Tribute Artist, this Saturday evening at 7pm. Enjoy a famous Bailey Burger while you listen to some of Elvis’s greatest hits. 

First Baptist Church Coushatta is holding Revival Sundays in October at 6pm–October 13: Dr. Steve Horn; October 20: Dr. Gevan Spinney; October 27: Dr. Keith Manuel & Bro. Caleb Willis.

Mansfield State Historic Site, 15149 Hwy 175, is hosting popcorn and a movie every Sunday in October from 2-4pm.

Join Union Hall Baptist Church for Fall Bible School, “The Great Jungle Journey,” October 14-16. A meal will be provided at 5:30pm for the children. Activities begin at 6pm.  

The Red River Parish Library will host the monthly Ancestor Hunters Genealogy Meeting October 16 from 10am-12pm. Classes are FREE. Bring your own laptop or you can use one at the library. The workshop will focus on using Ancestry.com which is available through the library’s website. The meeting will be led by Red River Parish native, Dr. Virginia Webb.

Don’t miss your chance to see the exhibition “Showtime: LSU’s Spectacular Pistol Pete” before it closes on October 19. Celebrate the legendary Peter Press Maravich, known as “Pistol Pete,” who dazzled fans with his record-breaking career at LSU. Explore stunning images by John Musemeche and watch the short documentary “We Were Fans” to learn more about Pete’s impact on basketball. Visit the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum in Natchitoches before it’s too late. This is a must-see for sports fans and anyone interested in Louisiana’s rich history. 

Martin Baptist Church will host their annual Fall Festival Sunday, October 20 from 5-7pm. Activities include food, games, bounce house, cake walk and trunk or treat! All ages are welcome.

Herman Jackson, Jr.
March 22, 1953 – October 3, 2024
Funeral Services will be held Saturday, October 12, 2024 at 11am at Will of God Ministries in Coushatta

Toni Ardison
April 17, 1966 – October 4 2024
Funeral Services will be held Saturday, October 12, 2024 at 11am at Springville Baptist Church in Coushatta

LaVerne Johnston Lockey Bamburg
April 14, 1931 – October 9, 2024
Funeral Services will be held Monday, October 14, 2024 at 2pm at Unity Baptist Church in Cotton Valley

When Red River Head Start intern Hannah Adams called for donations in a Coats for Kids Drive, two young ladies from the school district accepted the challenge. Sisters Anyla Young and Alyssa Young outdid themselves by persuading community members to donate.

Anyla Young is a candidate for RRHS student of the year for 2024/2025 and an AKA debutant for the Natchitoches Parish Chapter. Her family is anxiously hopeful she will win for our Red River Parish. They are thankful for all the love and support shown for her during the last few months, as she has been asking for donations.

Her sister, Alyssa Young, is a student at RRJH and a candidate for Student of the Year for 2024/2025. This dynamic duo has a heart for community involvement and giving.

Pictured is Anyla with two AKA members from Natchitoches, Persunda Raymona and Vanessa Lloyd. Also pictured are Anyla and Alyssa with coats drive chairperson Hannah Adams and Head Start Director Christy Suggs.

Cora and Faith Thomas, Dino and Annette Simmond, Jerelle Palmer, and Richard Owens also personally donated coats.

On Tuesday, October 8, U. S. Senator Bill Cassidy toured Christus Coushatta Hospital, Clinic, and Outpatient Therapy facilities.  His objective was to learn more about their needs and what he could do in Washington to help. Dr. Wyche Coleman, Dr. Sarah Herbal, Administrator Brandon Hillman, and other hospital staff walked the Senator through the various sections and buildings.

The tour featured the imagining lab, Emergency Department, hospital rooms, clinic facilities, and the newly opened pediatric therapy wing.

Dr. Coleman spoke of the importance of keeping a fully staffed and modern patient care facility in the rural area. He emphasized that Coushatta has a system of care teamed with Christus Highland in Shreveport, which allows patients with possible stroke symptoms to be evaluated and treated within the 75-minute window needed for administering blood clot-dissolving medications.

As a physician himself, Cassidy was receptive to all of the information and wanted to hear more about the telehealth, cardiac, preventative care, and EMS services available to doctors and patients through the hospital.

Coleman stressed the importance of teamwork in coordinating a rural facility that offers many services. He praised the Doctors, nurses, and staff who make it their daily mission to care for the people of Coushatta.

The 2024 APHN Fall Tour of Homes is set for the second weekend of October, offering a unique glimpse into historic residences in Natchitoches. The event will take place on Friday, October 11, and Saturday, October 12, featuring two separate tours.

The Candlelight Tour on Friday, October 11, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, includes four homes located within a two-block radius, making it an easy walk for visitors. Guests can enjoy a wine and cheese reception at the Jefferson Street Townhouse to conclude the evening. Maps and directions will be provided to guide attendees through the picturesque tour.

On Saturday, October 12, the Town Tour will be held from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring another set of four homes. This tour requires driving between venues, with maps and directions provided. Each tour costs $25.00, and tickets can be purchased at www.Givebutter.com/APHNTourOfHomes.

Candlelight Tour Venues:

• Laureate House (225 Poete Street): Built in 1840, this European-style townhouse features a wide central hall, separate room entrances, and a beautiful garden.
• Grenaux-Bishop House (200 Pine Street): Completed in 1914, this charming Queen Anne cottage retains its original features and has an extension added in the 1920s.
• The Nakatosh House (210 Jefferson Street): Built in 1923, this stucco-and-cypress home boasts four bedrooms, four baths, and a sunroom.
• Jefferson Street Townhouse (230 Jefferson Street): A Colonial Revival bungalow with a grand front veranda and high ceilings, this venue will host the wine and cheese reception following the tour.

Town Tour Venues:

• Lemee House (310 Rue Jefferson): A c.1830 home with Mediterranean-style architecture, it will also feature arts & crafts vendors in the garden.
• H.A. Cook Guesthouse (128 St. Denis Street): A converted 1920s commercial building now serves as a three-bedroom guesthouse filled with period antiques.
• Hill Haven (1525 Rue Washington Street): This home, over 100 years old, showcases regional artwork, including pieces by Clementine Hunter.
• Keegan House (225 Williams Avenue): A Colonial Revival home built in 1850, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Additional Weekend Activities:

• Melrose on the Cane (3533 LA-119, Melrose, LA): Tours will be offered at this National Historic Landmark on Saturday afternoon and Sunday. Show your Fall Tour ticket for a $5 discount.
• St. Augustine Church Fair (2262 LA-484, Natchitoches, LA): Celebrate Creole culture with food, music, and games on October 12 and 13, starting at 10:00 AM each day.

Melissa Robinson serves as the Chairman for the 2024 Fall Tour of Homes. For more information, call 318-458-2485.

Red River High School adjusted times to allow fans to enjoy a longer tailgate for Homecoming 2024. Tailgating times have been extended from 6pm until 10pm.

Tailgating will now take place from 9am-10pm on Friday, October 18 in the RRHS baseball parking lot. 

All tailgating must be cleaned up by 10pm. Gates to the area will be locked at 10pm. 

The deadline to secure a tailgating spot is THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10 at 1:30pm.

SHREVEPORT — When Marty Young lights his blacksmith forge, he hopes the dancing flames can fire up the imagination of a passerby or event attendee.

Young, the director of the LSUS Pioneer Heritage Center, is one of about 70 living historians and volunteers who participate in the annual Pioneer Day.

This year’s 27th event will take place Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pioneer Heritage Center, which consists of seven historic structures from the 19th century. Students of any age can attend for free with adult tickets costing $5.

At 52, Young is one of the youngest living historians participating.

Aside from providing a realistic step back in time for event goers, Young aims to influence the next generation of living historians who would want to pass on time-honored traditions.

“One of our main goals with this event is for all the different types of folklife groups to recruit new members,” Young said. “We want to expose people to the Pioneer Heritage Center, but we also want people, especially young people, to spark an interest in one of these activities being demonstrated.
“We want to do everything we can to preserve folklife, whether if it’s an art or craft.”

Pioneer Day attendees can flash back into the mid-and-late 1800s to see what life was like in Northwest Louisiana.

The Pioneer Heritage Center’s seven historic buildings include the Caspiana House, a dogtrot log cabin, a commissary (general store) and a doctor’s office. The Caspiana House is an antebellum cottage built in 1856 on the Hutchinson Plantation, which was located south of what is now Ellerbe Road near the banks of the Red River.

Each building is complete with artifacts and examples of how the area’s residents conducted daily life.
Pioneer Day is the only day of the year in which living historians breathe life into structures and recreate daily life from that era.

Live demonstrations include woodcarving, leatherworking, pine needle basket weaving, Dutch oven cooking, flint knapping, pottery throwing, sewing and stitchwork to name a few.

Elvin Shields, who grew up on Melrose Plantation in Natchitoches Parish, will be making twisted wire toys that have their origins in Africa.

Local organizations will be conducting talks on their areas of expertise, such as the Scottish Society of the Louisiana Highlands, Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Park (native plant and animals), Bossier Parish Libraries History Center (Caddo Native American tools) and the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum (Caddo pottery).

Some vendors will be selling their crafts and wares.

Sales are becoming ever more important to vendors as general inflation also increases costs for materials like wood, coal, metal, thread, cloth and other items used in their demonstrations.

For more information about Pioneer Day or ways to get involved with local folklife groups, contact Young at marty.young@lsus.edu.

Does the Biden-Harris Administration care more about the millions of illegals coming across our southern border—500,000 or so we have now learned are criminals, including murderers and rapists—than it does about Americans in the storm-devastated United States whom it is obligated to serve and protect?

We are now learning that the Biden-Harris Administration spent over a billion dollars of FEMA money in the last two years to house illegals, tapping those funds that should be available now for Helene victims. (The illegals often stay in nice hotels, are granted gift cards, and are served “culturally appropriate” foods while our homeless veterans often sleep on the sidewalks in front of those hotels.)

Have you followed the Helene disaster on TV? Cadaver dogs are still looking for bodies. There is no water. There is no electricity. No food. People have lost their homes. They are begging for help. There is no way to communicate. Private groups—like our Louisiana Cajun Navy of which I am so proud—are ID’ing bodies and offering help and rescue much faster than any federal agency. It’s also worth noting that Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has stated that no privately-owned drones may be operated in the devastated areas because doing so may cause “safety issues” with the drones of federal agencies. Well, there aren’t any federal agencies using drones right now and our fellow citizens are in desperate shape. Why is Elon Musk’s Starlink system, which would immediately provide communication in these areas, being resisted? Is it because Musk is a Trump supporter?

In response, the Biden-Harris Administration has sent these victims, our fellow Americans, $750. (Our federal government has spent hundreds of billions of dollars overseas in the last 24 months). It would be laughable if it weren’t so cruel. How can our government be so criminally incompetent?

That’s why I was stunned to hear Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Department of Homeland Security, make the statement that FEMA has no money for victims of Hurricane Helene because it’s been spent in the settlement and housing of illegal aliens in America. Mayorkas said FEMA does not have the funds to make it through the remainder of hurricane season, yet $640 million was recently allotted to DHS specifically for issues related to illegal immigrants. (FOX News, 10-3-24).

This is risky and dangerous, as hurricane season does not end until November 30. According to Fox News’s Chad Pergram, “Congress made sure FEMA had more than $20 billion in last week’s emergency spending bill ahead of the storm, but last year, Congress awarded DHS $640 million to help communities provide shelter and aid to people in the country illegally.” (Breitbart, Oct. 3, 2024)

Stunning.

After Secretary Mayorkas warned that FEMA “does not have the funds” to get through hurricane season, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody directly challenged the secretary over his comments, pointing out the more than $1 billion spent on illegal migrants.

Moody asserted “… they have taken the FEMA emergency food and shelter program and over time siphoned off hundreds of millions of dollars into basically making it an illegal immigrant resettlement program. So, when you see these states and cities around the nation declaring emergencies … because of what this Administration has done, encouraging more and more and more illegals, developing programs to encourage more and more and more people to come here. Due to the Biden-Harris government, right now in Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, all of these states are hurting because of this truly natural disaster. They’re saying we need more money, and of course they need more money because they’ve been laundering it away from its intended purpose.” (FOX News Oct. 3, 2024).

Mayorkas and FEMA “should immediately stop funding the relocation of illegal immigrants and use the money for hurricane-affected areas instead,” Texas Governor Greg Abbott tweeted, saying that Americans should be put first. (The Economic Times, Oct 4, 2024).

The health and welfare of Americans must be the Number 1 moral, legal and policy priority of the American government to which we pay trillions annually of our hard-earned tax dollars to do those things for us that we can’t do for ourselves.

Democrats are prioritizing the needs of illegal, non-citizens over those of Americans, who are thereby neglected and stranded. Government’s number one responsibility is a sacred one—to protect its citizens. It has failed. This is outrageous. It is a scandal that touches on treason.

Royal Alexander

At approximately 4:10 a.m. Monday, October 7, 2024, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop G and Red River Parish Sheriff deputies responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 1 north of Yearwood Road. The crash claimed the life of 64-year-old Melvin Henix of Shreveport.  

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2017 Hyundai SUV, driven by 26-year-old Christian West of Bossier City, was traveling south on Louisiana Highway 1. At the same time, a 2005 Ford pickup, driven by Henix, was traveling north on Louisiana Highway 1. For reasons still under investigation, the Hyundai crossed the centerline and collided with the Ford.

Henix, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. West, who was also properly restrained, sustained severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Impairment is not suspected; however, standard toxicology samples were collected from both drivers and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers often witness the tragic consequences of preventable crashes. Never operating a vehicle while impaired, fatigued, or distracted is essential, and always obey the posted speed limit. While not all crashes are survivable, taking these simple precautions can mean the difference between life and death.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill joined a bipartisan coalition of 14 attorneys general in filing separate enforcement actions against TikTok for violations of state consumer protection laws. Attorney General Murrill action alleges that TikTok exploits and harms young users and deceives the public about the social media platform’s dangers. 

“TikTok is targeting youth with content that shocks the conscience – and it’s designed to target young people and addict them to an endless scroll of extreme content that generates massive profits. TikTok has knowingly been misleading the public about the content it’s serving up to kids. Parents deserve to know the truth and Louisiana law, at the very least, requires TikTok to stop lying. I intend to hold TikTok accountable and protect kids,” said Attorney General Murrill.

Use of TikTok is pervasive among young people in the United States. In 2023, 63% of all Americans aged 13 to 17 who responded to a Pew Research survey reported using TikTok, and most teenagers in the U.S. were using TikTok daily.  In today’s lawsuit, Attorney General Murrill alleges TikTok violated Louisiana consumer protection statutes, La. R.S. 51:1401, et seq. and La. R.S. 51:411. The action seeks fines, penalties, costs, attorney’s fees and damages, to address TikTok’s misconduct. TikTok’s misconduct arises from its underlying business model that focuses on maximizing young users’ time on the TikTok platform to enable the company to boost revenue from selling targeted advertising space.

TikTok’s misconduct includes:

• Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, LA. REV. STAT. § 51:1401, et seq.

• COUNT I: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drug References
• COUNT II: Sexual Content and Nudity
• COUNT III: Mature/Suggestive Themes
• COUNT IV: Profanity or Crude Humor
• COUNT V: 12+ Age Rating
• COUNT VI: T for Teen Age Rating
• COUNT VII: Cumulative Deceptive and Unfair Representations
• COUNT VIII: Community Guidelines
• COUNT IX: Addictiveness and Harmful Design Features
• COUNT X: Restricted Mode

•  False Advertising, LA. REV. STAT. § 51:411

• COUNT XI: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drug References
• COUNT XII: Sexual Content, Nudity, and Mature/Suggestive Themes
• COUNT XIII: Profanity or Crude Humor

Attorneys general from the following states join Attorney General Murrill today in filing separate enforcement actions against TikTok to hold it accountable for its role in the children’s mental health crisis: California, New York, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oregon, South Carolina, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. 

As of today, 23 attorneys general have filed actions against TikTok for its conduct toward youth, including existing actions filed by the attorneys general of Utah, Nevada, Indiana, New Hampshire, Nebraska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, and Texas.

Louisiana’s lawsuit was filed in the 21st Judicial District Court.

To read the lawsuit click here. 

Source: aglizmurril.com

Over a decade ago, I flew to Kansas City for a preacher’s meeting. I had to rent a car.

I had reserved the car months before the trip. I was expecting a mid-sized car. It is funny that rental agencies have categories one step above the actual size of a car. A mini-Cooper is described in their literature at a “mid-sized” car. By their logic, a go-cart would be an “economy car.” I had reserved a “mid-sized” car. I was not expecting much.

When I arrived at the counter, my rental counter expert was “Karen.” Karen was from Baton Rouge, and we at once began speaking Louisiana to each other. She could even spell, “Natchitoches” and knew the proper pronunciation. It is always good to find home folks when you are on the road. Karen pulled up my reservation and started giggling. I asked her what was so funny. She said that the car I was assigned was a Mercury Grand Marquis. Now if you drive one of those, that is your choice, and I mean no disrespect to your proper conservative car. I made an audible sigh at the rental counter. She said, “Yeah, you don’t look like that kind of guy.”

I guess since she was from Baton Rouge and we were speaking Louisiana to each other, she decided to do something nice. She said, “Let me fix this reservation.” A couple of keystrokes on her computer and she said, “You reservation is in space 31. Have a nice day.” She made sure I had a map to my destination and the name of the best BBQ in Kansas City. I was certainly going to take that recommendation!

I walked out of the rental terminal to the parking lot. I found space 31. Karen had change to Mercury Grand Marquis to a Ford Mustang! The Mustang was a convertible! There is nothing like pulling up to a preacher’s meeting in a black Mustang convertible. I enjoyed all three days of my workshop and driving that Mustang convertible.

When you are traveling, and you meet someone who understands” lagniappe” isn’t it a blessing?

I think of heaven in those terms. Our faith in Christ gives us an abundant joy-filled life here on earth and when we finally wear out these old bodies, God has lagniappe planned. Heaven is one serious “upgrade.” I think Jesus takes pride in showing each of us that place He has gone to prepare for us.

Think of the greatest experience you have had in life, and you have not even touched the joy that is ours in Heaven. It is way better than a convertible Mustang at a preacher’s meeting!

Doug de Graffenried is Pastor of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston.

You can contact Doug at dougsponderings@gmail.com

Dr. Elizabeth B. Clarke, Director of University Communications, Louisiana Christian University
 
While Louisiana Christian University welcomed many international students who traveled thousands of miles to attend college this semester, few traveled as far as new mathematics faculty member Dr. Ashar Ghulam.

Ghulam moved this summer from Lahore, Pakistan, his hometown of more than 13 million residents, of whom are more than 96% Muslim, to live in Pineville, a town of 15,000, and work at a Christian university. 

To say his life has changed seems to be more than just a bit of an understatement.

However, Louisiana itself was not new to him or his family. 

Ghulam, who was raised in a Christian family, studied at Forman Christian College University in Lahore when it was run by Government. Previously this university was run by Presbyterian missionaries. He earned his master’s from the University of the Punjab, also in Pakistan.

He spent a few years teaching mathematics in high schools. Then in 2003, martial law was declared, and the Army took over. The government had previously taken over control of the Forman Christian College University, Lahore and eliminated the role of the Christian missionaries. 

“The head of the Army, he was a former student, and he helped the missionaries regain control of the Institute, and it was returned to the Presbyterian missionaries,” Ghulam said. “At that time, they were looking for faculty, and I joined there.”

He worked there from 2003-2010, when he applied for and was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study at LSU. He earned his Master of Science and Ph.D. in mathematics while he was there. 

Ghulam, along with his wife and three children spent several years in Baton Rouge while he was studying. It was his first time in America, he said. 

“The first six months were very hard,” Ghulam said. “I was alone, but when my wife and kids arrived things got better.”

His oldest child, Isaac Ashar, was 5 then. He is now a freshman studying computer science at LCU. (It is common practice in Pakistan to give the son the most commonly used name of his father as his last name).

Ghulam said finding a church with a good fellowship was central to his happiness in his new home. It was there he met U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, who was a U.S. representative at the time. Cassidy was his oldest son’s Sunday School teacher. 

However, he returned to Pakistan in 2016. A condition of the Fulbright Scholarship program is that recipients must return to their home country for at least as long as their scholarship lasted. 

In 2024, a position opened at LCU, and with the reference of Sen. Cassidy, and his exceptional credentials, his family made the move back to Central Louisiana.

“Dr. Ghulam was for over 20 years a professor at Forman Christian College in Lahore, Pakistan near the border with India,” said Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Henry O. Robertson. “As a Christian committed to Jesus Christ, he worked there faithfully and was a blessing to his students. His students are working and getting higher education in different parts of the world. He has worked for the Higher Commission of Pakistan(HEC), also. He is widely published, cited dozens of times, and has been a presenter at international conferences. We welcome Dr. Ghulam and his family to the LCU family and value the stature he brings to the mathematical field here on this campus.”

Ghulam said the biggest challenge is the increased use of technology in the classroom. Student behavior is also different, but having taught in graduate school at LSU, he was accustomed to American students.

The software that Americans universities use is considered quite costly in Pakistan, he said. But he is learning and willing to learn even more new things.

On the personal side, he said he finds the food in Louisiana to be milder than he is used to eating. Even though Cajuns are known for their heat, Pakistani and Indian food has much more kick. So he said they are learning to like ‘mild’ flavors. 

Isaac said the biggest difference for him is the lack of shopping here.  

“In Pakistan, there are corner shops everywhere,” he said. “Overall, I like living in Pineville, it’s just much smaller than I am used to.”

But that’s just fine with them.

“I’m comfortable here,” Ghulam said. “And my son is happy here. It is God’s plan that we are here, and it was not easy to come here from our country to be here for work. We are starting a new life here, with more opportunities for our children.”

Gray Media, in partnership with the New Orleans Pelicans, recently announced a transformative media rights deal to bring every non-national Pelicans NBA game to 4.1 million households through a new soon-to-be launched multi-state distribution venture called Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network anchored by Gray’s New Orleans television station WVUE (FOX 8 Local First).

The new network will broadcast free, over-the-air and be available on a variety of pay-TV platforms through Gray’s television stations in Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lake Charles, Monroe, and Alexandria, Louisiana; Gray’s television stations in Biloxi, Jackson, Hattiesburg, and Meridian, Mississippi; and Gray’s Mobile, Alabama television station.

By moving the Pelicans games to Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network, the team will be available to increase its reach by 16 times over the team’s reach through its previous distribution arrangement with a non-broadcast regional sports network.

“Gray Media is thrilled to be able to leverage our resources to connect our loyal viewers with the growing number of Pelicans fans across the Gulf South,” said Sandy Breland, Chief Operating Officer, Gray Media. “The Pelicans are putting their fans first as now all fans will have the ability to watch the games free over-the-air or through any basic cable, satellite service, or streaming provider that carries the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network.”

“This partnership with Gray Media represents our commitment to our fans, community, and partners across Louisiana and the Gulf South,” said Pelicans Governor Gayle Benson. “Our focus has been to make Pelicans games accessible to as many fans as possible, and this deal means that Pelicans games will now be available to millions of more fans with this free, over the-air broadcast product.”

“Fans in New Orleans and throughout the Gulf Coast are ready for Pelicans basketball to be available to them subscription free,” said Mikel Schaefer, Vice President and General Manager, WVUE-TV. “We saw how much fans wanted this last season when the ten Pelicans games we broadcast had the highest ratings ever for the team.”

“Providing the best overall fan experience and accessibility to the team remains our number one
priority,” said Pelicans President Dennis Lauscha. “This new media deal delivers Pelicans coverage to a much larger audience throughout Louisiana and across the Gulf Coast. We are thrilled to partner with Gray Media to bring premier access and unique team content to our fans.” 

The network will be available free over-the-air with an antenna in all affiliate markets, ensuring broad access for all fans. Viewers can look forward to seeing broadcasts in Gray Media markets including:

Louisiana:

• Alexandria – KLGC Channel 25.2
• Baton Rouge – WAFB Channel 9.3
• Lake Charles – KGCH Channel 32.1
• Monroe – KCWL Channel 24.1
• New Orleans – WVUE Channel 7.1
• Shreveport – KSLA Channel 12.2

Source: graymedia.com

Professional football is the most popular sport in America and maybe in his hemisphere, so that probably puts me in the minority in thinking it borders on completely boring compared to the college game and compared to the way the pro game was played when I was a kid.

Weather. Outside. Ripped and dirty jerseys. People could tackle and were allowed to. Tape. Mud. Hockey-player teeth. Grass.

That sort of thing.

Long (but true) story.

So when I kind of/sort of want to watch, I recall a simpler time and watch it with the Mannings on “Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli” on ESPN2 while the “main” broadcast (as if!) airs on either ESPN or ABC.

As a lot of fans in Louisiana did, I spent Monday night watching defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City host New Orleans. Kept it tuned to ESPN2. Football is fun when the Manning brothers and their guests are in the house and on the couch. Somehow, with Peyton in a downtown Denver garage/den/TV studio, Eli somewhere in his house within the gravitational pull of New York or New Jersey, and with their guest from wherever they might be, it all works out.

All-Star Lineup Monday: Peyton’s old nemesis Bill Belichick in the first half, third quarter with actor and KC super fan Paul Rudd, and the best for last: the ManningCast debut of the father of the Super Bowl quarterbacks and TV hosts sons, Archie Manning, for the fourth quarter.

Best way to watch a game.

Kansas City remained perfect at 5-0 and covered the 5.5 spread easily, beating the Saints, now 2-3, 26-13. Not a compelling game, but with the Mannings and their guests, beautiful.

Teams practice of course, but the purest beauty comes when players improvise, which they must do more than you might think. Same with the ManningCast, an offspring of Peyton’s Omaha Productions company: some of the show is planned —film clips and questions, a bonafide “bit” now and then, like Eli throwing football into a picture of his big brother’s head taped to a net — but the best parts are improvised, when the guys or the guests are flushed from the pocket.

That happens on the ManningCast about as often as the ball is snapped.

The Chiefs led 16-7 at half, the Saints hanging in there when it looked early as if the game might get away from them. A start-and-stop second half. Who cares? The babble and brotherhood carried the day.

At various times, the trio of The Brothers Manning and Belichick talked about a safety blitz that helped the Chiefs beat the Chargers in September—although the safety wasn’t even supposed to blitz. But it worked. And about how that’s often the case in the NFL, and about how those “busts” often turn into planned plays.

After that game, Peyton told Eli he’d guessed that the blitz was a bust. Eli said it wasn’t, called Chiefs stud defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuola and asked him, Spag said it WAS a bust, “and you owe me $20,” Peyton reminded Eli as he drew the blitz on the telestrator. All while the game continued.

Belichick, who coached New England to six Super Bowl wins, told a story (the stories are the thing!) about when he was an assistant with the New York Giants and how Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor came off the field after a sack when he wasn’t supposed to blitz but did, and his coach Bill Parcells said “We don’t have that blitz in our playbook” and Taylor smiled and said “Maybe we oughta put it in.”

They talked about Andy Reid’s call sheet, the big laminated card that looks like a Waffle House menu he carries on the sidelines. They talked about how the card is divided, showed an enlarged picture of it on Peyton’s giant TV telestrator, explained how it’s divided into plays to get certain players the ball or defenses to run on certain downs or distances. Or how Reid might order the No. 2, extra bacon.

They talked about the Saints good-looking new black helmets, about Belichick’s “On to Cincinnati” quote after suffering a shellacking in 2014 (the Patriots went on to win the Super Bowl that season), about how stiff-hipped defensive backs get put at safety and the hip-swivelers play corner.

Just stuff. But lots of stuff. Good stuff.

Rudd was People magazine’s  Sexiest Man Alive in 2021, and Eli asked him if he’d know beforehand if he’d been chosen or “will I just find out when everybody else does,” and of course there was a mock cover of People with a picture of Eli as the newest “Sexiest Man” looking half asleep in his jersey, and then the Saints nose guard intercepted a dropped pass in the end zone and ran it back to midfield, the ultimate indignity, to spoil a Chiefs score, and the quarter ended and Paul went from being The Sexiest Man in America to The Most Distressed Man in America.

“Thanks for joining us Paul,” Peyton said going to commercial. “I’m sure you’ll look back on this as one of the great decisions of your life to be on this show and create some negative plays for your Chiefs.”

And then the fourth quarter and dear ol’ dad, glory hallelujah, Archie, who assured the boys that their mom had said it was OK for him to be on, that she’d “signed off on it.”

They asked him about the highlights of his time with the Saints and Archie said that while those weren’t many, it was interesting that “during my 11 seasons I got to play for the Saints, I had a good relationship with all seven of my head coaches during that time.”

Ahem …

But of course he loved “the journey” and “the friendships” and the “long career,” sincerely, even though the team didn’t win.

Archie was Archie, which is all he can ever be. They showed clips of Peyton “dancing” in his school play, video that hinted at his future “lack of mobility,” his dad and brother noticed. Videos of Archie and a 12-step drop back in the day, Archie scrambling, Archie passing underhanded and sidearm, Archie stories of facing the Chiefs in old Tulane Stadium and facing the Chiefs in brand new Arrowhead.

The game in Tulane Stadium was Archie’s rookie year, in preseason, and he’s scrambling all over the place and the Chiefs’ feared linebacker, Willie Lanier, told him near the end of the first half on that hot night in New Orleans, “If you run one more time,” he said, after calmly putting his hands on Manning’s chest, “I’m gonna break your neck.”

“You kind of remember those type things,” Archie said.

The game in new Arrowhead was also in preseason. “I don’t remember much about preseason games — we played six back then — but I do remember in that game I had three tackles in the first half.

“Kind of tells you,” he said, “what kind of night that was.”

Archie said he and Joe Theisman were two of the final single-bar facemask guys “until (Minnesota Hall of Fame defensive end) Alan Page planted my nose right over here by my ear; after that, I decided I needed to get a little more protection there.”

Archie had to end a couple of verbal fights by telling each of his two youngest sons to go to their rooms, which Eli said they couldn’t do, being in the middle of a TV show and all. And dad being in a different time zone.

And Peyton asked his dad if they thought something was wrong with Eli when he was born, since he weighted “only” 10 pounds and both Peyton and oldest brother Cooper each weighed 12.

“I think we kept him in the hospital a few extra days,” Archie said, playing along, then added, “The word was around the hospital that the doctor said they weighed him after he was circumcised.”

Big smiles, some head shaking and laughs, and then Eli: “Dad, that’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said about me.”

The Saints, the team these three grew up with, didn’t make much noise in the quarter, so it left plenty of time for Archie to talk about some of the best players of his era.

Defensive linemen: Bob Lilly and Merlin Olsen.

Edge rushers: Deacon Jones and Jack Youngblood.

Most intimidating: Dick Butkus. “I didn’t play against Lawrence Taylor,” he added.

And the greatest player of his era, the best all-around? “Walter Payton. Just throw everything in there. Just a great football player.”

Payton, from Mississippi like Manning, called Archie the day after Peyton’s birth to thank him for naming his second son after him. “I tried to tell him I spelled it different, that we’d named him after his uncle,” Archie said. “But he was convinced. After a while, I just let him keep believing it.”

If you ever saw Walter Payton play, you could see why they called him Sweetness.

Like watching a game with the Mannings.

Sweetness.

What a breath of football fresh air …  

The ManningCast isn’t every Monday night during the season, but it is — they are —on during each of the next four Mondays.

And you can always visit the entertaining cornucopia that is OmahaProductions.com; you must see the 10-minute ManningCast: The Musical, which you’ll probably want to watch only once — but you’ve got to see it that one time.

But especially, consider the ManningCast on Mondays. It’s entertainment. It’s a football lesson if you want it to be, but it’s also a relaxing way to watch a sometimes violent but beautiful sport, an athletic broadcast for the prince and the pauper, for the athlete and the fan, for the AFC or the NFC, for the circumcised or the uncircumcised.

It’s nuts. It’s (foot)ballsy.

It’s fun.

Sweetness.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

Man Church will be held Thursday, October 10 at 6pm at Grand Bayou Event Center. Speaker for the evening is Scott Ivy, Interim Pastor at Social Springs Baptist Church. A catfish dinner will be provided.

The Louisiana Homesteader Conference will take place on Friday, October 11 and Saturday, October 12 at the LSU AgCenter Red River Research Station in Bossier City, LA. Admission is free.
Oct 11: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Oct 12: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Learn about homesteading, food production and food preservation for backyards and small acreage. Topics include poultry production, backyard rabbits, rising meat and milk goats, small-scale beef production, meat processing, vegetable gardening, fruit trees and more.

Congratulations to these Red River Parish 4-H members for being selected as Northwest Ag Ambassadors! Katelynn Albright-Magnolia Bend; Shirley Boyd-Riverdale Academy; and Mack Russell-Red River High School.

Red River Parish Library hosts Children’s Story Time every Friday from 10-11am.

Join the Shreveport-Bossier Astronomical Society, Inc. for an evening observation session at the Shreveport Observatory on Saturday, October 12, 2024. The observing session involves looking through telescopes at numerous astronomical objects. The evening observing session at Shreveport Observatory will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Numerous telescopes will be available to observe the Moon, Venus, Saturn and it’s rings, as well as numerous galaxies, star clusters, double stars, nebula, and much more. The Shreveport Observatory is located eight miles south of the LSU-Shreveport campus. Go south on Hwy. LA. 1 and right on Hwy. 175 for about 1.7 miles and left on Astronomical Way. A free sky map and Moon map and other handouts are available. For additional information or a map go to ShreveportAstronomy.com or contact Dr. Cran Lucas at (318) 573-6929 or Email cranlucas@gmail.com.

The Village of Hall Summit will host their 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat Thursday, October 26 from 5-7pm at the Hall Summit Community Center & Park. The fun includes a costume contest, games and lots of candy!

Herman Jackson
October 4, 2024
Arrangements TBA