Blake Moseley
April 9, 1994 – November 16, 2024
Funeral services will be held Friday, November 22, 2024 at 11am at First Baptist Church in Coushatta.

Ricky Bonner
March 16, 1963 – November 14, 2024
Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 11am at Deliverance Temple in Coushatta.

Matt Vines

COUSHATTA – The rematch went as well as the first match.

Red River pounded Winnfield for the second time in three weeks as the No. 12 seed Bulldogs rolled over the No. 21 seed Tigers, 48-6, in the first round of the Division III Non-Select playoffs.

The second time was nearly as good as the first – a 50-6 win that secured the District 3-2A title – Red River’s first since 2005.

The Bulldogs (7-4) used a familiar formula – dominate on defense, establish the run, mix in explosive passing plays.

There’s also been one other regular occurrence during Red River’s six-game winning streak – in the last four of those games, the Bulldogs have scored a non-offensive touchdown.

Against Winnfield (4-7), Jomello McDonald blocked a punt that Cameron Jones scooped up and returned for a touchdown.

That score happened as part of Red River’s 28-0 first-half lead.

The Bulldogs got it going with a Montreveun Smith 30-yard rushing touchdown, just the start of an impressive offensive night.

But it was the defense that created short fields for the offense all night, holding Winnfield to just 117 total yards.

“The whole team has played consistently and had great focus, but especially the defense,” said Red River coach Byron Keller. “The defense is playing lights out.

“When the defense scores in each of the last four weeks, you know you have something special.”

Red River needed just 239 offensive yards to take advantage of those short fields, which included 186 yards on the ground.

Other players who reached the end zone for Red River included Warren Bowman, Malique Smith, and Cameron Hobley.

The Bulldogs recorded their first playoff win since 2021, falling the past two seasons in the first round.

Now Red River will face arguably its toughest test of the season when the Bulldogs head to No. 5 seed Union Parish, who knocked off No. 28 seed Oakdale, 42-6, in the first round.

District 3-2A – other than Winnfield – also had a banner night with Mansfield (58-14 win against Avoyelles) and Lakeside (37-12 win Bogalusa).

SUPERINTENDENT’S LIST

Allen Caryiah Chante

Antilley Kyleigh Michelle

Ashton Javia Cierra

Babers Zikeriyia Alece

Banks Areonia Mo`Nay

Beavers Tylan Jymir

Bohannon Darcey Elaine

Bohannon Destiney Elise

Bounds Addison Marie

Bounds Gabriel Nicole

Bradford Adrianna Jewel

Brewer Gaylon Ashad

Brisker Shaianne Michelle

Caldwell Ja`Nyla Renae

Caldwell Sha`Nyla Lashae

Clark Ke`Asha Kyanna

Cole Ty Benjamin

Correa Dias Maria

Czupich Leanne Avery

Davis Weston Micah

Demery Kalleon Jerome

Dickey John Charles

French Wylan Wade

Gray Kinya Rihanna

Griffin Jahari Jamarion

Henderson Shamiya Monique

Heyl Trinitie Jade

Hill Taleha Marissa

Hinson Anna Grace

Hobley Cameron Deion

Housley Morgan Renee

Jones Caitlyn Simone

Jones Cameron Jerome

Kellogg Chelsey Marisa

Lovell Jaylen Cheyenne

Miles Bethani Simone

Morgan Emily Renee

Morris Cartiana Virgie

Morse Mary Alayna

Murphy Elijah Duwane

Nichols Kayden Lane

Pierce Cole D

Procell Ashlee Marie

Smith Eric Terrell

Smith Mon`Tre`Veun Tyrell

Stephens Kaylyn Grace

Suggs Rafe Rebel

Taylor Cha`Destiny Keyanna

Thomas Joshua Ray

Thompson Isiah Michael

Vangundy Madilynn Cheryl

Williams Jaskyla Alecianna

Williamson Tristen Luke

Young Anyla Nike

PRINCIPAL’S LIST

Al-Edresi Manal Sedeq

Allen Ma`Lia Mic`Kele

Anderson Isis Destiny Monique

Antilley Kolten Michael

Ashton A`Nyah Ariel

Baker Kaden La`Mar

Bamburg Joseph Eli

Baxley Madalynn Lee

Beaner Raelyn Lauren

Bell Detriuna Di`Vette

Black Ga`Micheal La`Dameion Tobais

Bolyer Ava Marie

Bowman Warren Windell

Bradley Angel Shonell

Bradley Lauryn Debbreanne

Brunson Samuel

Calhoun Trinity Faythe

Carlton Zayla Jade

Carter Ja`Miria Monae

Cason Victoria Grace

Castie Draven Zane

Chatman Stethan Ameriye

Christen Payton Antony

Cormier Sarah Lou`Ella

Danzy Brent Andrew

Demease Ahmauriyeh La`Kerah

Demery Arian Ma`Kenneth

Demery Fa`Dasia Aujanae

Dickey Ava Michelle

Eichorn Raymond Nicholas

Ferriss Patrick

Franks Gavin Michael

Gant Tamija Q`Wanell

Gay Ryder Chase

Giddings Shawn Michael

Grigg Calib Archie

Hammond Emalie Paige

Hammond Sadie Brianne

Hester Aston Everett

Hill Maliyah Marie

Horton Barrika Wyneisha

Horton N`Hayla

Jackson Adrina Jazell

Jackson Jamon Reun

Jackson Zaria Elyse

James Daylyn Waynyetta

Jefferson Arie`L Taraji Carol

Johnson Cayden Grace

Jones Jamerica Janae

Jones Jasonay Ladiamond

Jones Tyra Elaine

Keith Macie Lynn

Kennedy Quindon Daniel

Kowal Callie Elizabeth

Latson Laniyah Nicole

Latson Marcus

Lavallais Tamia Alessz

Lemons Angel Brianna

Lewis A`Zarion Deshun

Lewis Jadarian Lamar

Lewis Lathyn Elijah

Lewis Mackenzie Ariel

Lin Journey

Luna Emily Janice Chloe

Lund Knute Samuel Thophilus

Manausa Jacob Denton

Martinez Vincent Kade

Mcdonald Jomello Craig

Miller Njerika Nicole

Mims Logan Anthony

Mitchell Denelle La Joy

Moore Nolan Gene Morris

Nash Randell O`Neal

Neal Kade Matthew

Nelson Mi`Yunia Monea

Newton Cherish Unique

Newton Demarche Antionne

Orourke Hannah

Owens Karrington Reese

Palmer Brandon O`Neal

Palmer Justin Arnez

Pickett Shelby Ann

Pierce Jakeb Brice

Price Julianna Jemma

Roberson Skylar Brooke

Russell Everett Mack

Scott Emmanuel Brice

Shaffer Matthew David

Shaver Dominic

Smith Wy`Breshia Reion

Stafford Collin Deval

Stampley Trinity Nicole

Steinert Addilyn Brooke

Street Maximus De`Quincy

Sullivan Micheal

Taylor Amarian Rhyeem

Taylor Bri`Aunna Nichole

Taylor Samanatha Renea

Taylor Shamahni Jade

Terrell Johnny Ray

Thomas Jazmin Marie

Thomas Kenneth K`Eon

Thompson Zachary Odis

Tong Brody Reece

Washington Rihanna Elise

Weathers Tayla Mitya

Wells Jayden Jaquain

Whitaker Ky`Undria Nashay

Williams Ga`Leah Nicole

Williams Geramiyah Gaquion

Williams Paris Paige

Williams Trinity Kayleena

Williamson Hope Leann

Williamson Porter Kael

Willis Madelyn Mckenzie

Wilson Rihanna A`Lise

Wimberly Steven Austin

Winn Brenton Jamal

Winn Markendria Sha`Kaiya

Woods Jayda Lynn

HONOR ROLL

Beavers Derrick Dewayne

Bishop Xavier Dakota

Bonner Jamichael Dewayne

Boulas Devin Robert

Brisker Kameron Tremmel

Burton Nathaniel Lorenzo

Campbell Sha`Kristian Aur`Naijah

Clark Ja`Len Arnez

Clark William Landen

Crawford Kaleah Simmone

Curry Alissa Grace

Czupich Angelina Nicole

Darby Ava Alyce

Davis Jamarion Donell

Demease Tiarha Jaydyn

Demery A`Jila Sh`Kenneth

Demery Tra`Jalen Deon

Duhon Jadah Lee

Gaddison Serenity Simone

Gary Jada Sy`Mone

Grigg Kodie Morgan

Hall Aiesha La`Shun

Hamilton Shanarious Shanay

Hanson Iva Jean Aver

Harris Anthony Glen`Shavion

Harris Damija Deondre

Hartley Chase Matthew

Horton Nykyria Nashay

Jackson A`Staciyah Bernae

Johnson Donavan Dale

Jones Cameron Dewayne

Jones D`Adreione D`Shun

Jones Ja`Vonica La`Kierra

Jones Jordan Tremell

Kellogg Jacob Payne

Kowal Casimir James

Latson Jemarcus

Lewis Alayla La`Shirl

Lewis Carl

Lewis Landyn Elisha

Martin Karman Nicole

Mays Shatasis Amira

Meshell Johnny Ray

Metoyer Devin Joseph

Mitchell Jaren Trace

Mobley Sha`Lyrical Sharnise

Moody Cedric Dewayne

Newman Zylon Feon Zha`Neal

Newton Cortez Deshay

Pickett Harlie Rae

Posey Kaylee Ann

Price Tarek Romaine

Procell Cody Dwayne

Rowell Maddison Shyann

Smith Jamari

Smith Zy`Quayvious Malique

Speed Denysia Lashay

Stewart Jayden Timothy

Terrell Jarveonta Carnell

Tingle Hunter Nathaniel

Ward Taygen Faye

Webb Malayasia Renee

Wilson Jeremiah Jamarcus

Wilson Ny`Keriaha Lashun

Wilson Rickey Amun

Winn Khylee

Woodard Nathan Wayne

Youngblood Alexander

November 24, 2024, is the community Thanksgiving service for Coushatta.  Area pastors and lay leaders will lead the service at First Methodist Church Coushatta.  The service is a night of praise and prayer for the Coushatta community.  Everyone is invited to attend.  Cookies and coffee will be served after.  

DeSoto Parish – In July 2024, the Mansfield Police Department contacted the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations/Bossier Field Office to investigate a stolen credit card belonging to the Mansfield Fire Department (MFD).

The preliminary investigation revealed that the MFD credit card was used in over 180 unauthorized transactions, resulting in illegal purchases totaling more than $14,000.00 for gas. These transactions occurred between February 2024 through July 2024 at gas stations in Louisiana and Texas.

Investigators learned that 22-year-old former MFD Fireman Donald Anthony Jr. of Mansfield stole the MFD credit card following his termination from MFD in February 2024. Thereafter, he engaged in numerous unauthorized transactions using the stolen credit card.

As a result of the investigation and information obtained, an arrest warrant was obtained through the 42nd JDC, charging Anthony with felony access device fraud and felony identity theft. Anthony turned himself in to authorities and was booked into the DeSoto Parish Detention Center on the above charges. This investigation remains active and ongoing.

To report suspicious or criminal activity in your community, the Louisiana State Police online reporting system is available to the public through a convenient, anonymous, and secure reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. The form can be accessed by visiting lsp.org and clicking the Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity.

Ruston, LA – Southwest Airlines is partnering with Louisiana Tech Aviation to increase the program’s usable fleet size and improve safety. The $38,000 Southwest Airlines D255 University Partner Grant allows the University to purchase new aircraft electronics for one of the fleet’s Cessna Skyhawks. The upgrade will allow the aircraft to send and receive location signals, creating a safer environment for student aviators and surrounding aircraft.

“The new equipment will expand opportunities for training in this particular aircraft,” said program director Monty Montgomery. “This makes our program safer and more efficient for the pilots we’re training.”

Last year, the University entered a partnership with Southwest Airlines and their pilot training program to help anchor Tech’s commitment to ensure its students are better prepared for jobs in the 21st-century workforce.

“The committee applauds your commitment to reducing costs for students,” Darr Jenkins, Southwest Airlines corporate responsibility program manager, said. “We look forward to continuing to collaborate and witnessing your program help future pilots achieve their dreams.”

The Destination 225° University Pathway identifies high-potential aviators and provides them with a defined route to building relevant flying experience at a partner carrier. After gaining flying experience, individuals can envision a career as a Southwest pilot. Participants receive mentorship and various networking, informational, and engagement opportunities at the University and at the airline’s training facility. Headquartered in Dallas, Southwest operates one of the world’s most admired and awarded airlines.

On Sunday morning, Speaker Johnson, in multiple interviews discussed how a Republican-led government will secure the border and prevent the largest tax hike in US history, as well as the strength of President Trump’s cabinet appointments, and the need to rein in federal spending.

Johnson stressed that securing the border immediately is a top priority. “This is what the American people have demanded and what they deserve. They want a secure country. They want a secure border, and we will deliver upon that. That’s what the mandate of the election was all about. We know how to do that. We have legislation that we passed in the previous Congress, in this Congress, HR 2, that would be the most secure border legislation ever passed. But President Trump, I suspect, will use his executive authorities beginning on day one and we will come behind with legislation, and we will make sure we have a sovereign, safe and secure nation. Again, that’s what we have to deliver.”

Johnson explained that legislation is already planned to bring down the cost of living by incentivizing American companies to invest here and to create more jobs for more people. He also said it is imperative that Congress makes certain the American people don’t experience the highest tax increase in U.S. history when the provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expires. 

He emphasized that the new reform agenda begins in earnest as soon as President Donald J. Trump takes the office in January with a full agenda to run. “It’s going to be a very aggressive first one hundred days of the new Congress. And we’ve been getting all the members of Congress ready for that. The House has been preparing for this for almost a year. And now the Senate under its new leadership, leader-elect Thune, he and I met this week. We talked about this aggressive agenda, and he told me he is ready to go and deliver on those America first policy. It’ll be a very busy time for Congress and a good time for the country.”

He believes Trump’s selections for cabinet are “persons who will shake up the status quo. You can’t have status quo appointments in a moment like this.”

FREE calendars! The 2025 LSU AgCenter Simple & Delicious Calendar showcases healthy, easy recipes and savvy shopping tips. Contact the 4-H office to get yours.

The 20th Anniversary Fleur de lis Chirstmas Craft Market will be Saturday, November 30 a the Natchitoches Events Center from 9am-4pm. Free admission. 

Santa is making a stop at Adeline’s Bed and Breakfast for Cocoa and Cookies on December 8. Multiple times are available–1pm, 3pm and 5pm. Limited spots available. 

Natchitoches Lighted Boat Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 14 at 5pm. See dozens of festively decorated boats glowing against the backdrop of the Cane River Lake. 

Minden churches will host The Live Nativity this Christmas Season in downtown Minden on Saturday, December 21 from 5:30-9pm. It is free and open to the public. It is a walkable event with multiple stations to experience the journey through Bethlehem with the birth of Jesus Christ. Golf Carts will be available to those unable to walk the route. 

NONE

Matt Vines

COUSHATTA – Once Red River football hit District 3-2A play, the Bulldogs exhibited a sense of focus and resolve forged by its early-season adversities.

Red River (6-4) ran through its district with a perfect 4-0 record, winning its last three games by at least 24 points.

The No. 12 seed Bulldogs will run it back in the first round of the playoffs as district foe No. 21 Winnfield (4-6) visits in a rematch.

The Tigers made a trip to Coushatta in Week 9 as Red River handled Winnfield in a 50-6 victory.
One might think a group of teenage boys would be overconfident heading into matchup in which they won handily just two weeks ago,

But that hasn’t been Red River’s M.O. this season.

Faced with a Week 10 non-district trip to Oakdale in which Red River had already locked up a playoff spot and its first district title since 2005, the Bulldogs didn’t let the hosts hang around in a 36-8 win.

“We play the game to win the game,” said Red River coach Byron Keller. “Our kids are hungry and want to prove that Red River football is here and ready.”

“Here” at Red River meant playoff wins for a time.

The Bulldogs won playoff games in 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021 before losing in the first round in each of the last two seasons.

A No. 26 Red River squad built a 16-0 lead against No. 7 Pine this past season in the playoffs, but Pine surged to a 38-16 win with a strong second half.

Red River is hoping to replicate its regular-season success in which the Bulldogs led 38-0 at half and Winnfield scoreless until the final quarter.

The Bulldogs’ defense forced three turnovers and created easy scoring opportunities for the offense, which didn’t much help. The defense held Winnfield to under 200 total yards, including just three yards per rush.

“Alignment, assignment, and execution,” Keller said when describing the defense’s performance against Winnfield. “We preach these three foundations.

“Then, when we add our fast and physical style, it gives opposing offenses trouble.”

Red River has won seven of the past eight matchups against Winnfield, and a win Friday would set off a similar celebration as winning the district title on its homefield in Week 9.

There’s a (slim) chance that Red River could see Week 10 opponent Oakdale as well.

No. 28 Oakdale heads to Union Parish in the first round, although if Red River handles its business for a second time this season, a trip to Union Parish is much more likely.

Even though Winnfield had a poor showing in Coushatta, it’s not like the explosive Tigers have been feckless this season.

Winnfield has victories against Jonesboro-Hodge, Caldwell Parish, Rosepine and Many – by an average of about 30 points each.

But outside of a six-point loss to Mansfield in Week 8, Winnfield has struggled to compete with the better teams on its schedule.

The Tigers enter on a three-game losing streak with losses to Mansfield, Red River (50-6) and Lakeside (31-12).

Red River has won its last five contests after a 1-4 start, which included losses to Catholic-Pointe Coupee (26-6), Oak Grove (55-8), White Castle (48-30) and Pineville (32-20).

Red River Parish’s Anyla Young was crowned Miss AKA Debutante 2024 at the annual Debutante ball in Natchitoches. Young, the daughter of Anthony and Enisha Young, is the first in Red River Parish to be bestowed the honor.

Escorted by another Red River native, Zylon Newman, Young garnered a crown, trophy, and most importantly a scholarship for her educational future.

Everyone on her team said thank you to the people of Red River Parish for working with them to help Young with all her efforts.

A recent story in the RRPJ featured Miss Young during the Coats for Kids drive at Red River Elementary.

Red River High School freshman Logan Mims has earned his spot at the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) Division IV State Championship after a remarkable performance at the Regional Division IV Cross Country meet. Mims placed 14th overall, completing the challenging 3-mile course in 18 minutes and 47 seconds, a personal best that marks his dedication and promise in the sport.

Logan’s placement secures him a coveted slot in the LHSAA Division IV State Championship, where he will compete against Louisiana’s top high school runners. The championship race will take place at noon on Monday, November 18th, at Northwestern State University’s course, a course known for its unique combination of open fields and wooded trails, offering both scenic views and athletic challenges.

This achievement is particularly impressive as Logan is only in his freshman year, competing against upperclassmen with years of cross-country experience. His training and perseverance have paid off, as he now stands among the region’s elite runners, representing his school and community with pride.

Red River’s Cross Country Coach, Coach Brunson, praised Logan’s focus and dedication, noting, “Logan has shown incredible discipline and drive since day one. Qualifying for State as a freshman is no small feat. We’re incredibly proud of him and look forward to seeing how he performs at State and in the future.”

Logan’s journey to State has drawn support from family, friends, and the community, all cheering on this young athlete as he prepares to compete at the next level. Make sure to follow Logan’s race on November 18th as he takes on Louisiana’s best, aiming to bring home another achievement for Red River. Go Bulldogs!

SUPERINTENDENT’S LIST

Grade 1
LUKE AXEL BARFIELD
JOSEPH BLAKE BERLY
BRAYDEN WAYNE CASTELLO
JRAKE HENSON CLARK
SKYLAR RAYE CRAYTON
RYLEY AIDEN JOHNSON
PATIENCE NICHOLE JONES
TOBIAS SCOTT KENNEDY
MARISSA NANCY SCARLETT LUNA
Grade 2
BRAXTON REID WIGGINS
Grade 4
AVA NOR`MAE JONES
CHANCE NYKEEM LATSON
JAMASON REID MORSE
Grade 5
RAELYNN GRACE BICE
LINDSEY BRYNN MCCRORY
ALEX JAY PALMER
GWYNETH GAYLE PALMER
LILLIAN MAY THOMAS

PRINCIPAL’S HONOR ROLL

Grade 1
TOMMY RAY ANDERSON
AUTUMN ELLA BAMBURG
KHARI TADEO BOWMAN
BRAYLON RASHARD BRADBERRY
MAJESTEE ROSE CALHOUN
AMELIA FAYE CARTER
EMMA RAE COLEMAN
ROZLYNN EZERNACK
JIANNA REESE GEROW
BRANTLEE JAMES GRIFFITH
ARIA LANE HARRIS
KEYEON MYSHAWN JENKINS
ZOIE CARALEEN JOHNSON
CORBIN RAY JONES
RAYLEE JANEE JONES
KAIMEN JAMAR MACON
VELVIAH SY`ANNE MCDONALD
DELILAH FAYE MILES
ARAYAH UNIQUE MITCHELL
CHLOE ELIZABETH NORRIS
LOVIE-JO LEANN PHELPS
CAIDEN LEON JAMES PUEBLO
JACOURTLEN DEMONTAYE RICHARDSON
ASHER TATE SCOTT
BRADLEE CHRISTOPHER SCOTT
BRAYLON RHISHOD SIBLEY
LUCAS EDWARD SNEAD
LEXINGTON JO WELBORN
TAYLA SHANIELLE WILLIAMS
Grade 2
RYLAN PAUL BEAVERS
SAGE MCKENNA DEMERY
JEREMIAH LANE DIAL
LELAN JA`VEAH DRAKES
AVA-MARIE JONES
CONNER TIMOTHY LEWIS
JOSE RAUL LOPEZ
MICHAEL HUNTER MARTIN
DREDEN DEWAYNE SPEED
ELLAFAITH ELIZABETH TONG
Grade 3
EMMETT NATHANIEL BERLY
KYLIEE GRACE CATO
CAMERON MICAH HERBEL
AARON CADE HESTER
EVERETT GAGE LOVELL
LAMARIO CORNEL MOBLEY
ARIAH ELLISSE PRICE
A`BRIELLE JOANN SARPY
LILLIANA EYVE WELLING
CHACE ABRAM WHITE
NAHLA ELYSABETH WIGGINS
Grade 4
KAMERIN AMAR ALLEN
CARLAY`VIA CORRINE BONNER
LONDYN AIEREL BONNER
KENLEIGH CLOREE BOOKER
CHRISTOPHER SHAWN COLEMAN
LANDON PAUL COX
TAELYNN-RAE GARBERT
KYLEISE GE`SHAY HASKETT
KAIDEN JAY HILL
BRYCEN JONES
AUBRIE TREMAINE LEVI
HARMONEE ELISE LEVI
ALEX LIN
EMMA KATHRYN LITTON
CARAH LEIGH MANSHACK
BRAYLEE MARIE MARTIN
MCKINLEY ARIELLE OWENS
ZORI`AH MARCHELL SMITH
Grade 5
THOMAS RHETT AYRES
LONDON LEE CALHOUNE
TAYLAN CAMBRIELLE` CARTER
SHUNTERRIS MARIE CLAY
NOVARAE LOUISA DAWSON
DOMINICK SHAWN DAY
ARIEONA DIANE LENAE JOHNSON
ALLIE GRACE KELLOGG
MICHAEL WAYNE LINDSEY
JULIE ELIZABETH LUNA
KYRAH JHONE` NELSON
MASON GAGE PICKETT
ABIGAIL DARLENE PRICE
MORRIGAN ANN PRICE
GERALD DEMOND SMITH
MASON MARQUIS WILLIS

HONOR ROLL

Grade 1
CHAYSON ANDRE CARPER
KAMBRIE LEANN HUFF
WESLEY GARRETT JOHNSON
CADENCE CERA-DIONNE KEITH
ETHAN NORRIS
KORBIN PHILIP RAWLS
JAXON LAYNE SMITH
KENADEE LEFAYE SMITH
LILLY GRACE SMITH
TANNER THOMLEY
HOPE SARIAH WILLIAMS
JOHNATON WOOD
Grade 2
BRADLEY ALAN BERLY
KHIY`REN EUGENE CARTER
BRAYDAN JEFF CASKEY
DE`ARIA ALAINA CRAIG
LUKE IRVIN GUFFEY
JASE COLE KIJANSKI
TREMAINE MORSHAY LEVI
ETHAN JASE MORRIS
PEYTON ELIZABETH PICKETT
KORTNEE LEAH SMITH
MA`KENDREYA QUAR`NAI SMITH
CAYSON GRAY SOLTON
JAXON GABRIEL WILLIAMS
Grade 3
KAYDEN JAMES BAMBURG
EBONY ASSYRIA BROWN
JUDY ELIZABETH DIAL
DRAKE LE`SHA STEVENSON
Grade 4
AYDAN LANE FREDERICK
KENTON LACAZE
DRAKE DANIEL MOSELEY
Grade 5
LIAM KINGSLEY BLOUNT
KENNIDIE MINEOLA BRADLEY BONNER
JAMICHAEL JEROME BRADEN
KARA MICHELLE BROWN
KY`LEIGH KA`LIYAH FRAZIER
ANYIAH ROD`NEY HARRIS
JONSIE LEE GUNNER HENDERSON
A`LAYRIA ERIUNA JONES
ZIYAN ISIASH TAYLOR
TRINITY ALISE WALKER

By: DARE Officer Lt. Troy Murray

On November 13, 2024, after successfully completing the requirements of the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program, eight fifth grade students from Riverdale Academy received graduation certificates.

After students opened the ceremony with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, those in attendance learned a brief history of the DARE program, heard the reading of the winning DARE report, and watched the students perform skits related to DARE’s five resistance strategies. Sheriff Glen Edwards also spoke briefly and reinforced the importance of making good decisions.

Students recognized for exceptional DARE reports were Noah Guillory (1st place), Jesse Jowers (2nd place), and Bailee Raney (3rd place). Following the closing prayer, a reception was held in the lunchroom for the graduates and their guests.

While there is no way to truly measure the impact of the DARE program, there should be no question that it equips our children with tools that can be helpful throughout their lifetimes. In addition to educating students on the dangers associated with drugs and alcohol, the DARE program covers much more. This includes responsible decision making, resistance strategies, peer pressure, stress, effective communication, bullying, being a good citizen, and establishing a help network.

Sheriff Edwards would like to extend his appreciation to the Riverdale Academy school board and administration for allowing the Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office the opportunity to present the program.
Thanks also go to fifth grade teacher Jennifer Pickett for all of her help, Pam Ebey for organizing/hosting the reception as well as many others who helped make this year special for the students.

Great job Riverdale DARE Class of 2024! Always remember to be SAFE and RESPONSIBLE!!

On July 11, 1909, Louis Van “Bud” Abernathy and his brother Temple Reeves “Temp” Abernathy left their home in Guthrie, Oklahoma and headed to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Bud and Temp expected to travel about 35 miles each day on their 1300-mile round trip. Rather than making the trip in an automobile, which was still a rarity in Oklahoma at the time, or trains, both of which would have made the trip faster, Bud and Temp decided to go on horseback to toughen themselves up. Bud and Temp were dressed in their “summer ducking suits,” garments made from plain-woven fabric treated with wax to make them waterproof. They carried canteens and haversacks which held their food and water. They planned to stop at each county seat along their way to make the acquaintance of the sheriffs so they would not be interfered with and for protection. Bud and Temp were armed only with pocketknives. Bud rode on a white horse called “Sam,” which became famous three years earlier when President Theodore Roosevelt rode him in a wolf hunt. Temp rode on a less famous gray mare named “Geronimo.” To borrow lines from the film “Forrest Gump,” when Bud and Temp were tired, they slept. When they were hungry, they ate. When they had to go, they went.

At 10:00 on the morning of July 15, four days into their journey, Bud and Temp, “travel-sore and half sick,” arrived in Lawton, Oklahoma. They had ridden over 100 miles in four days through “extremely hot weather,” and briefly considered giving up. Rather than just passing through Lawton as they had planned, they decided to stay overnight for some much-needed rest. Early on the following morning, they saddled up and continued. They slowly made their way through Olustee, Oklahoma, Estelline and Tulia, Texas, Portales and Roswell, New Mexico. Finally, on Friday afternoon, September 3, 1909, 54 days after setting out, Bud and Temp arrived in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Hordes of people lined both sides of the street to watch the travelers mosey past. Bud and Temp casually waved and nodded as they rode their horses up to the capitol building and handed their credentials to Governor George Curry. For several days, Bud and Temp were guests at the executive mansion where they were wined and dined by the governor.

While in Santa Fe, their father arrived by train to join them. When it was time to leave, their father tried to convince Bud and Temp to trade their saddles for train cushions, but they refused. Bud and Temp hopped in their saddles to begin their return trip. They hoped to return home by September 20, which they were sure was possible. However, it wasn’t until September 26 that Bud and Temp completed their journey. Thousands of people crowded the streets to cheer as they rode their horses into Oklahoma City. Thousands of people crowded the streets to cheer for Bud and Temple. “Ladies and gentlemen,” Bud spoke from atop a fire wagon, “We are glad to be back in Oklahoma City, and we are glad that Oklahoma City has given us such a big reception. We… have had a good time, and we would do it again.” The pair set their September 20 arrival for a specific reason. That was the day they were to return to school. You see, Bud was just eight years old. His brother Temp was five.

Sources:

1. Daily News-Republican, July 10, 1909, p.3.

2. Las Vegas Optic, July 10, 1909, p.1.

3. The Frederick Enterprise, July 16, 1909, p.1.

4. The Waco Times-Herald, July 16, 1909, p.8.

5. The Daily Oklahoman, August 18, 1909, p.13.

6. The Chickasha Daily Express, August 23, 1909, p.1.

7. Tulsa World, August 26, 1909, p.1.

8. The Daily Oklahoman, August 26, 1909, p.12.

9. The Roswell Daily Record, September 4, 1909, p.3.

10. Las Vegas Optic, September 8, 1909, p.1.

11. The Daily Oklahoman, September 26, 1909, p.1.

WASHINGTON — House Republicans again unanimously selected Speaker Johnson to lead the House Republican Conference and continue serving as the 56th Speaker of the House of Representatives for the 119th Congress.

“We had a very productive day together as a Republican Conference, and the theme that you’ll hear over and over from all of our members across the conference is that we are unified and energized and ready to go,” Speaker Johnson said. “We have to deliver for the American people beginning on day one in the new Congress, and we will be ready for that.”

House Republicans also elected Rep. Steve Scalise to serve as Majority Leader, Rep. Tom Emmer to serve as Majority Whip, Rep. Lisa McClain to serve as Conference Chairwoman, Rep. Richard Hudson to serve as NRCC Chairman, Rep. Blake Moore to serve as Conference Vice Chairman, Rep. Kevin Hern to serve as Conference Policy Chair, and Rep. Erin Houchin to serve as Conference Secretary.

Following the leadership elections, the new House Republican Leadership team delivered remarks and took questions from assembled press.

If you’re ever presented the opportunity to go on a dove hunt in Mexico, don’t turn it down! It’s one of the greatest hunts you’ll get to experience! But a hunt in Mexico is more than just about shooting a lot of doves, it’s also a humbling experience and one that will make you appreciate this great country we live in.

One of the great perks about my days as Louisiana Director of Manufacturing for Holloway Sportswear was the opportunities it presented for taking part in some good hunts, as well as getting to play golf at some of the best golf courses in America like Pinehurst, North Carolina and Old Waverly in Mississippi.

But I’ll never forget a hunt we made at La Paloma Resort in Mexico about two hours south of Harlingen, Texas. You’ve heard the expression, “Half the fun is getting there!” Well, that was definitely the case on this trip.

Just going through gun check at the Mexico border was a little intense and took several hours to get approval. The one thing you don’t want to do is make the border agents mad or question what is taking so long. You’re better off just going with the flow and trying to survive the process.

It’s funny how hard it is to cross the Mexico border from the US side, but so easy to get back into the United States. You would think it would be the other way around! But hopefully our border crises will be solved now that we’ve elected a new President.

There’s only one way to describe a Mexico dove hunt…. unbelievable! For anyone who has ever shouldered a shotgun and shot a few doves, I cannot put into words how incredible this hunt is. Doves fly over, not just as one here and there, but in clouds one wave after another! There are so many doves flying that it can be difficult to pick one out to shoot.

Here’s another example of just how many doves there are. It was not uncommon for every hunter in our party to bring in over 100 doves each on a two-hour hunt. During each hunt, every hunter is given two bird boys (or retrievers) to make sure all the doves that were shot are not left in the field. These bird boys ranged in ages from 10 to 18 years of age and will stop at nothing to retrieve a bird.

Each boy was incredible at going and getting every bird that was knocked down. They would go through barbwire fences and brier patches to get a downed dove!

Each bird boy was paid $50 per hunt, and it was encouraged to tip them as well. The impressive thing was that the money paid to them was not for a new PlayStation game, but for school supplies and clothes for the upcoming school year.

No dollar was waisted! So, I made sure my boys were taken care of by tipping them at least another $50 each per hunt since I knew the money was being well spent and they earned it!

Another way to describe how great these hunts are is that each hunter in our party, over three days, went through almost 2 cases of shotgun shells. One case is 10 boxes of 25 shells per box. So, 2 cases would be the equivalent of 500 shells shot over the three-day period. This turns out to be just over 80 shells shot per hunt. You shot so much, that you could not touch the barrel of your gun because it was so hot! That’s why you needed two guns on each hunt so you could alternate guns.

My best advice if you go on one of these great dove hunts is make sure to leave your 12-gauge at the house and bring two 20-gauge shotguns instead. Funny story… as we loaded (owner) Randy Holloway’s private jet in Dallas to fly to Harlingen, Texas, my peers all laughed at me for bringing two 20-gauge shotguns…called me a wuss! But I knew if we shot as much as I had heard we would, that by day two my shoulder would be more than just a little sore.

Well guess how many “sore shouldered” guys in my party came to MY room on the morning of day 2 asking to borrow one of my 20-gauge shotguns? Every one of them! That’s right, I could have auctioned off one of my 20-gauge shotguns for more than the price of a Rolex watch, as each of them finally realized what I already knew. LEAVE THE 12-GAUGE AT HOME!

Turns out, I shot more doves than anyone else in my party over those three days because my shoulder was just fine! Guess I wasn’t the wuss after all! Till next time, good luck, good hunting and stay safe. Remember, that if you were born on or after September 1, 1969, and plan to hunt, you will need to take a Hunter Safety Course.

Steve Graf

Tonight, Red River will take on Winnfield at home in the first round of the LHSAA playoffs. Kickoff is at 7pm. If you can’t make it to the game, you can catch it on 97.5 KDBH.

Students in grades 3-5 are invited to attend STEM Camp Saturday, November 16 from 9am until 12pm at Red River High School Vocational Building. STEM kits will be given to students in attendance. Contact Dr. Diane Newton, Director of Federal Programs, for more information at 318.932.4081.

South Bossier Fall Market is Saturday, November 16 from 9am – 3pm at Elm Grove Middle School gym.

Open Door Fellowship Youth are teaming up with The York Chop to raise funds for YEC. The students will work tables for tips on Wednesday, November 20 from 5-8pm. ALL tips will go towards ODF students to help them with expenses for YEC. 

The 98th Annual Natchitoches Christmas Season kicks off on Saturday, November 23 with “Turn on the Holidays” including turning on the lights, fireworks and a drone show.

Coushatta/Red River Chamber of Commerce annual Christmas parade and fireworks will be Thursday, December 5.

Margaret Louise Allen
January 12, 1955 – November 12, 2024
Funeral services will be held Friday, November 15, 2024 at 10am at Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home Chapel in Coushatta.

Bro. Benny Frank Alford
April 17, 1937 – November 12, 2024
Funeral services will be held Friday, November 15, 2024 at 11pm at Wallace Baptist Church, 5605 Highway 177, in Pelican.