This & That…Wednesday, May 13, 2026

The NFL will release the 2026 schedule will be released on Thur May 14 at 7pm. Leaks coming out have the Cowboys at the Giants on Sunday night while the Broncos will take on the Chiefs Monday night in week 1.

There will be plenty happening at the Coushatta Fairgrounds on Saturday, May 16, with events for all ages to enjoy. The 2nd Annual Boilin’ on the Red will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., featuring live music, food, and an all-you-can-eat option, along with blind judging and People’s Choice awards to determine who has the best “bugs.” Admission is $10, with $30 for all-you-can-eat. Earlier in the day, the Red River 4-H Pet Show will begin at 10 a.m., offering categories such as best dressed, most unique, and more. Participants must pre-register by May 13, and all animals must be leashed or in carriers. The May Farmers’ Market & Makers’ Fair will also be going on at the fairgrounds with a showcase of local vendors.

The Blue Essence Dance Company will present its spring recital, “The Awakening,” on May 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the Red River High School Auditorium. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for the evening performance, which will showcase a variety of dance routines highlighting the talent and hard work of local performers. Guest performances include the Red River High Cheer Team, The Legendary Rangerettes, Legacy Dance Studio, The Glamdolls and The Prancing J-Settes. Tickets are available for $20, which includes admission, an ad book, and a raffle ticket.

Fairview Baptist Crossover Student Ministry will host a fundraiser at The York Chop Thur May 28 starting at 5pm. ALL tips will go toward the cost of summer camp. 

Northwestern State football fans can officially start mapping out their fall Saturdays, and one Thursday, as 2026 Demon football season tickets are now on sale. Fans can purchase tickets online at www.nsutickets.com, by calling the Northwestern State Athletics Ticket Office at 318-357-4268 or by visiting in person inside the NSU Athletics Fieldhouse. The Demons will host six games at Turpin Stadium in 2026, the program’s highest number of home contests since 2013. The home slate features two stretches of back-to-back games during Southland Conference play.

Car enthusiasts are invited to Coushatta for the Rumble on the Bayou car show, hosted by the Bayou Cruisers Car Club on June 20 at Grand Bayou Resort. Open to all vehicles and motorcycles, the event will feature top awards including Best in Show and People’s Choice, along with food, vendors and a live band. Registration is $25 and begins at 8am with judging at 10am and awards at 2pm. An added bonus this year is an air-conditioned events center on site, making it a great way to spend Father’s Day weekend while supporting Operation Christmas Child and local charities.

Northwestern State University’s Department of Music will sponsor two sessions of summer music camp starting in June for children in kindergarten through grade six  Music Around the World will be on June 22-26 from 9 a.m. until noon at the Performing Arts Complex. The camp is $150. Summer Music Daze will be on June 29 – July 1 from 9 a.m. until noon at the Performing Arts Complex. Those attending will take part in singing, playing instruments, crafts, music games and creating.  Camp Flyer link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1okGx2MU-t-8Z8a7sbwfV4gjdBnlK5Qug/view?usp=sharing To learn more about the camp go to https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeIqx5FwEAdRPkzm37iXlvCMUFVCYC-PFyOL9I6Rgcxp0R0Qg/viewform?usp=dialog  For more information, contact Dr. Jennifer Pulling at pullingj@nsula.edu

College GameDay will kick off the season opener in Tiger Stadium for the LSU vs Clemson matchup on Sept 5. It will be College Gameday’s 40th season and 500th live show. Kickoff is at 6:30pm. Also the LSU at Ole Miss game is set for a 6:30pm start on Sept 19. 


Notice of Death – May 12, 2026

Donald Ray Harris
December 21, 1961 – May 6, 2026
Funeral services will be held Saturday May 16,2026 at 12pm at Old Mary Magdlene Church in Harmon.

Billie Faye Demease
June 7, 1955 – May 3, 2026
Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11am at New Mt. Olive B.C. in Coushatta.


Litton continues to build impressive rodeo career

Dusten Litton is making a name for himself in the rodeo world through Deep South Little Britches. In his first year competing, he won the Junior Boys Rookie of the Year national title with the National Little Britches Rodeo Association, and he has continued to build on that success.

Now in his second year of Deep South Little Britches competition, Dusten has once again qualified for nationals in all four of his events: team roping, ribbon roping, breakaway roping and goat tying. Going into the national finals, he is sitting in the top 15 nationwide in team roping, top 7 nationwide in ribbon roping and top 20 nationwide in breakaway. The finals will be held in Oklahoma City in July.

Dusten earned several top finishes including Team Roping Champion Header and Reserve All-Around Junior Cowboy Champion. He also earned Reserve Ribbon Roping Champion, Reserve Chute Dogging Champion, and finished third in goat tying and in breakaway. 

Deep South Little Britches is part of the National Little Britches Rodeo Association and provides young cowboys and cowgirls the opportunity to compete, earn points and qualify for the national finals. The program focuses on developing rodeo skills, work ethic and sportsmanship while preparing competitors for higher levels of competition.

Dusten’s success does not come by accident. He practices daily, ropes and rides every chance he gets, and works cattle regularly. He also helps each week at the family owned sale barn in Carthage and continues to train young horses. This year, he plans to break and ride a two-year-old colt given to him by George Lormand of Lormand Performance Horses in Hall Summit. The two have big plans for the colt.

Dusten has been riding since he was 3 years old, and according to his family, he has had a rope in his hand since he could walk. The 12-year-old son of Bo and Tiffany Litton, his determination, work ethic and love for rodeo continue to push him forward as he prepares to compete on the national stage again this summer.


Riverdale Academy Beta Club earns Silver Service Recognition

Coushatta, LA — The Riverdale Academy Beta Club has been named a 2025–2026 Silver Service Award recipient by National Beta. This prestigious recognition honors clubs that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to community service, achieving between 50 and 75 service hours per member from July 1, 2025, through April 30, 2026.

Collectively, Riverdale Academy Beta members contributed an impressive 2,576 service hours throughout the school year, reflecting their dedication to leadership through service and their lasting impact on the local community.
“Our Betas have truly shown what it means to lead by serving others,” said Amanda Cason, Riverdale Academy Beta Club Sponsor. “Earning this Silver distinction highlights their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around them.”

Throughout the year, the Riverdale Academy Beta Club participated in a variety of meaningful service initiatives, including:
Beta Week: Members celebrated service within their school by providing teachers with
room service, delivering candy grams to students, sharing notes of encouragement to
brighten the campus, collecting donations for the Gingerbread House, and organizing a
campus clean-up day.
Vacation Bible School: Students volunteered their time at multiple local churches, assisting with activities and mentoring younger children.
Teacher Assistants: Beta members supported faculty by assisting with classroom tasks and daily responsibilities, helping create a more efficient and positive learning environment.
Operation Christmas Child: Members contributed to this global outreach by collecting and preparing gift-filled shoeboxes for children in need around the world.
Livestock Show Volunteering: Students volunteered at local livestock shows, supporting community events and gaining hands-on service experience.

The Riverdale Academy Beta Club continues to exemplify the core values of achievement, character, leadership, and service. Their recognition as a Silver Service Award recipient reflects not only their hard work, but also their dedication to strengthening their school and community.

Shared by Riverdale Academy 


Young Red River track teams gain immeasurable experience at state

Matt Vines
​​​
The Red River boys and girls track teams soaked up the experience (and the rain) Friday at the Class 2A track and field championships at LSU’s Bernie Moore Stadium.

Student-athletes competed in seven events with Red River scoring points in four of those events.

Lathyn Lewis’ fifth place finish in the 100 meters with an 11.09 was the highest placing.

Khylee Winn cleared 4-9.75 to claim sixth in high jump.

Logan Mims logged a sixth-place finish in the 1600 meters with a 4:56.30.

Mims added a ninth-place showing in the 800 meters with a 2:08.29.

The girls 4×200 relay finished sixth with a 1:49.58. Runners included Kaleah Crawford, Adrina Jackson, Ahmauriyeh Demease, and Aniyah Jones.

Crawford ran eighth in the 400 meters with a 2:08.29.

The boys 4×800 relay clocked 9:22.45 to place ninth with a foursome of Kamrin Nelson, Christopher Hackett, Jacarvis Speed and Emmanuel Scott.

A relatively young boys and girls teams gained immeasurable experience while finishing 29th (boys scored three points) and 27th (girls scored two points), respectively.


Community Health Fair this Friday

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

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

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

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

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


Rain is moving out

 

Natchitoches Jazz & R&B Festival celebrates 29 years of music, community support

The Natchitoches Jazz&R&B Festival, which is celebrating its 29th year on May 15-16 is widely regarded as one of the top if not, THE top music festivals in north Louisiana. 

According to festival chairman Rodney Harrington, the event is the culmination of a year long community effort and would not be possible without the generous support of area businesses, concertgoers, and musicians.

“First and foremost, we have a super hard-working board of directors and core group of volunteers who work all year long for no other reason than to help provide good quality musical entertainment for the people of our area and beyond,” said Harrington.

“The festival simply wouldn’t happen without the generosity of our sponsors or partners as we call them”, Harrington continued, “they step up to the plate year after year and allow us to put on a top quality festival featuring A-list artists  and first class sound and production.”

Harrington did say that ticket sales are critical, however, and at the end of the day, it’s all about putting” butts in the seats.”

“With advance online ticket sales, we are able to track where our purchases are coming from and it’s pretty eye-opening,” Harrington said, “ we have folks coming to this festival from literally all over the country, although we rely heavily upon people who are in driving distance.”

He encourages local businesses which, for whatever reason, did not become sponsors, to please consider buying tickets to give to their employees and/or customers. 

Harrington says that the festival was started over 30 years ago mainly to provide a venue for local musicians to perform and it still maintains its loyalty to that group.

“The lineup of performers includes lots of local acts and they are going to be amongst the best you’ll see at the festival, “says Harrington.

For the first time, this year’s festival will feature a stage where all performers will play only their original music.  This will be in the beautiful setting of Beau Jardin and will be presented in cooperation with The Natchitoches Original Music Showcase.

BREAKING NEWS ALERT:  VIP TICKETS ARE NEARLY SOLD OUT AND THE JAZZ FEST BOARD ANTICIPATES TERMINATING THE FURTHER SALE OF THOSE TICKETS IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. 

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.natchjazzfest.com


State’s best college campuses for 2026

A new 2026 ranking of Louisiana’s best college campuses highlights schools that stand out for campus life, facilities, housing, dining, student resources and overall student experience.

The rankings, compiled by Niche, are based on student reviews and statistics from the U.S. Department of Education. Factors considered include classrooms and labs, residence halls, campus food, recreational facilities, student life and overall campus environment.

Top 8 College Campuses in Louisiana for 2026:

1. Southeastern Louisiana University
Southeastern ranked first in the state for campus quality, earning praise from students for its welcoming atmosphere, student life and campus layout. Reviews also highlighted continued investment in facilities and wellness resources.

2. Tulane University
Tulane scored highly for its academic environment, beautiful New Orleans campus and flexible educational opportunities. Students frequently mentioned supportive professors, strong campus culture and attractive facilities.

3. University of Louisiana at Lafayette
UL Lafayette ranked highly because of its active student life, athletics, campus food and overall campus atmosphere. Students also pointed to strong support services and research opportunities.

4. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Northwestern State received high marks for dorms, student life and campus experience. The university also earned recognition nationally for nursing, student life and campus facilities.

5. Louisiana State University
LSU continued to rank strongly because of its athletics, traditions, student life and large campus environment. Students praised campus activities, food options and school spirit.

6. Louisiana Tech University
Louisiana Tech earned recognition for its academic environment, supportive campus community and strong student engagement. Students also highlighted the quarter system and positive campus culture.

7. Nicholls State University
Nicholls scored well for campus food, affordability and student experience. Students described the campus as friendly and community-oriented.

8. Louisiana State University in Shreveport
LSUS ranked among the state’s top campuses due to strong professor ratings, diversity and flexible academic options. Students also noted its affordability and accessibility.

The rankings are intended to help students and families compare Louisiana colleges based not only on academics, but also on the overall campus experience and quality of student life.


SUN Bucks Program returns to help Louisiana families this summer

The Louisiana Department of Health has announced the return of the SUN Bucks program for summer 2026, providing additional grocery assistance to families while school is out.

The program offers a one-time $120 benefit per eligible child, helping offset the loss of school meals during the summer months. Funds are distributed through an EBT card and can be used to purchase groceries at authorized retailers.

Most eligible children will be automatically enrolled, including those who receive benefits such as SNAP, FITAP or certain Medicaid services, as well as students who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals. Families who are not automatically enrolled may still apply for the benefit.

Applications will be accepted through August 20, 2026, and benefits must be used within 122 days after they are issued.

State health officials say the program is designed to reduce food insecurity and ensure children continue to have access to nutritious meals even when school is not in session.

For more information or to apply, families can visit the Louisiana Department of Health website.


This & That…Monday, May 11, 2026

Red River Woman Church will be held May 12 at 6pm at The Shop in Martin. Guest speakers will be Ashley Hamby Mulkey and Ashley Webb Sibley. Worship will be led by Becky Birdwell Kniffin. A meal will be provided.

The 35th Annual Free Skin Cancer Screening will take place Tue May 12 from 5:30-7:30pm at the CHRISTUS Cancer Center, 1453 E. Bert Kouns Ind. Loop in Shreveport. Parking available at Entrance C in front of the CHRISTUS Cancer Center. Results are immediately available thanks to our partnership with the
physicians at Dermatology and Skin Surgery. Call 318.681.6231 to schedule your screening.

Bonnie & Clyde “Red, White & Momma’s Market will be held May 15-17. Take the whole family for a fun weekend filled with craft booths, food, vendors selling odds and ends, a photo booth and water slides.

Davis Springs Southern Methodist Church will host a Retirement Celebration honoring Brother Olan McLauren Sat May 16 at 2pm in the Activities Building. Everyone is invited to attend.

Red River Cowboy Church will host Playday Sat May 16.

Chick-fil-A in Natchitoches will host Mother & Son Date Knight Sat May 16. There will be two seatings, one at 5:30pm and the other at 6:45pm. All ages are welcome. Reservations are required (made through their Facebook page). Guests order tableside. Mr. Cow will make an appearance and kids take home a goodie bag. 


Notice of Death – May 10, 2026

Maryona Annette Murphy
March 27, 1965 – May 6, 2026
Graveside services will be held Monday, May 11, 2026 at 11am at Bethel Cemetery in Womack.

Billie Faye Demease
June 7, 1955 – May 3, 2026
Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11am at New Mt. Olive B.C. in Coushatta.


Red River High Firefighter students put skills to the test

Red River High School, LA — Students in the Red River High School Firefighter I (FFI) Program recently put their training into action during a hands-on skills demonstration designed to mirror real-world fireground operations. The event showcased critical firefighting techniques, including firefighter survival skills, forcible entry, roof ventilation, and a variety of hose loads and deployment tactics.

Under the guidance of their instructor and with the support of local fire service professionals, students rotated through multiple stations, each focused on a key component of firefighting. From breaching doors during forcible entry scenarios to executing coordinated roof ventilation techniques, the training emphasized both skill development and situational awareness.

One of the highlights of the day was the firefighter survival station, where students practiced self-rescue techniques and rapid decision-making under simulated high-stress conditions. These scenarios are essential in preparing students for the unpredictable nature of fireground operations.

Students also demonstrated proficiency in deploying various hose loads, learning how to efficiently stretch and manage hose lines for different fire attack situations. These skills are foundational for effective fire suppression and require both teamwork and precision.

“This type of hands-on training is where everything comes together,” said program instructor Toni Rodgers. “Our students have been working hard in the classroom, and this gives them the opportunity to apply that knowledge in a realistic and meaningful way.”

The success of the event was made possible through strong community partnerships. A special thank you is extended to the Red River Fire Department “B Shift” for taking time out of their schedules to assist with instruction and provide real-world insight during the skills stations. Their mentorship and guidance played a vital role in the students’ learning experience.

The program also extends its gratitude to Bienville Parish Fire District 6 for building training props and generously loaning equipment used throughout the day. Their continued support ensures that students have access to the tools and resources necessary to train safely and effectively.

As the Red River High School FFI Program continues to grow, opportunities like this reinforce its mission to prepare students not only for certification, but for future careers in the fire service. Through dedication, teamwork, and community collaboration, these students are gaining the skills and confidence needed to serve and protect.

Shared by Red River High School


Police Jury conducts May meeting

Members of the Red River Parish Police Jury covered everything from broadband expansion and road maintenance to emergency response and library services during their regular May 6 meeting, highlighting issues that directly affect residents across the parish.

All jurors were present as parish officials balanced long-term planning with ongoing daily operations.

Representatives from Conterra Networks addressed the jury about the company’s existing fiber network serving local schools and businesses. Cullen Stewart introduced Heather Fisher as Conterra’s liaison for Red River Parish and said the company is interested in exploring a partnership that could expand high-speed internet service to additional parish buildings and offices.

The jury also approved revisions to the parish’s Library Board ordinance following comments from Virginia Webb, who said current board members understand changes may be necessary to ensure representation from every district. Parish Administrator Jessie Davis confirmed public posting requirements had been met before the ordinance passed unanimously. Jury President Murray asked members to bring recommendations for future board appointments to the next meeting.

In the monthly CVU report, officials reported collecting $26,677 in road-use permits and $12,566 in fines. Officials said the increase in fines was largely due to companies and drivers operating with expired permits.

Davis also informed jurors that future documents from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and other state agencies will now require DocuSign electronic signatures. The jury unanimously authorized Davis to execute those documents on behalf of the parish.

Several fire board appointments were approved unanimously, including Bob Harris, Irving Barfield and Dale Bierden to two-year terms, Jamary Jones and Eric Cason to one-year terms, and Clarence Smith Jr. to a three-year term.

Budget discussions reflected both optimism and concern. Davis reported sales tax revenue increased during the last quarter but warned that rising fuel and petroleum costs for road repair and maintenance could quickly offset those gains. Jurors authorized Davis to negotiate with the lowest bidders on needed products.

Monthly reports also highlighted improvements in parish services. Ambulance officials reported an average of four calls daily with three ambulances operating at all times. Additional in-parish part-time staffing has improved response times, while new DEA requirements will require secure keypad safes for narcotics storage in ambulances.

The parish library reported hosting 11 programs in April with attendance exceeding 100 people. Officials also announced expanded Saturday hours beginning in June without additional staffing costs.

Fire Board members reported the Central firehouse continues operating efficiently and noted recent safety equipment purchases. Officials are also exploring staffing the Martin and Harmon stations, citing statistics showing nearly 23 percent of calls originate in the Martin area. Leaders believe improved response times could help lower the parish’s fire rating from 5 to 4, potentially reducing homeowners’ insurance costs.

The meeting concluded with members of the Coushatta Chute DAR presenting an America 250 commemorative flag donated by CBS Home Express. The flag may be flown beneath the U.S. flag at the courthouse in recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.


Sports Update

Matt Vines

Riverdale baseball represented by five all-district players
Five Riverdale baseball players were voted to the all-district team by the district’s coaches.

Three Rebels graced the All-District First Team – Zane Givens, Ben Moseley and Jackson Hillman.

Layken Gates and Cannon Breedlove were picked to the Second Team.

Red River track and field ready for state
Student-athletes in a combined seven track and field events will compete at the Class 2A state meet at LSU today.

Athletes competing in individual events include Khylee Winn (high jump), Kaleah Crawford (400 meters),

Lathyn Lewis (100 meters), and Logan Mims (800 and 1600 meters).

The boys 4×800 relay and the girls 4×200 relay will also compete.

Crawford will be joined in the 4×200 by relay mates Adrina Jackson, Ahmauriyeh Demease, and Aniyah Jones.

A trio of freshmen (Kamrin Nelson, Christopher Hackett, and Jacarvis Speed) will run with junior Emmanuel Scott in the 4×800.

Red River football spring game May 13
The Red River football team will conclude its spring practice with a spring game May 13 at Louisiana College.

Catch a glimpse of the new-look Bulldogs who will have new starters at key positions like quarterback, running back, and the defensive backfield.

Coach Travis Gary leads his program through his second spring practice after guiding the Bulldogs to six wins and a playoff appearance in 2025.


Louisiana creates first recreational alligator season

Louisiana residents will soon have a new hunting opportunity after Gov. Jeff Landry signed Act 37 into law, creating the state’s first recreational alligator season.

The new law, authored by Sen. Robert Allain III of Franklin and supported by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, allows the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to establish a recreational alligator harvest program. The commission will be responsible for setting season dates, harvest quotas and tag allotments by area.

Officials say the program is intended to expand recreational hunting opportunities while also helping manage Louisiana’s growing alligator population. The state is estimated to have about three million alligators.

Residents who want to participate will need a basic hunting license, an alligator hunting license and recreational harvest tags issued by LDWF. Those tags will be separate from commercial alligator tags.
The recreational season will be scheduled so it does not interfere with commercial alligator activities. Hunters will be limited to hook-and-line harvest methods, and recreationally harvested hides, meat or alligator parts will not be allowed to enter commercial markets.

Participation will also require landowner permission or use of public lands designated by LDWF. Recreational alligator hunters must remain on the property where they are authorized to hunt.


One vehicle accident causes a sandy situation

Traffic was disrupted Wednesday afternoon in Red River Parish after a sand truck overturned at the intersection of Catfish Bend Road and Highway 177.

The accident blocked part of the highway and forced traffic to be rerouted while emergency crews and law enforcement officers responded to the scene. The overturned truck spilled sand across the roadway, creating a large cleanup effort for crews.

No additional information on injuries or the cause of the accident was immediately available. Motorists traveling through the area experienced delays as authorities worked to clear the roadway and restore normal traffic flow.


Choose your friends and travel partners wisely

I was always told as a kid growing up that you are judged by the company you keep. In other words, it’s important that you choose your friends wisely. This is also important when it comes to tournament bass fishing.

In each tournament, especially multi-day events, it’s important to have the right guys in the house you’re staying in. Guys that you trust and have the same moral and ethical values as yourself. Anglers that will come to your rescue on and off the lake if you have a problem.

Over the years I have fished all over the South and I have chosen who I travel with very carefully. There are several traits that make good roommates on the road. First and foremost, you have to trust the people you’re sharing a house with. I’m not talking about stealing or tearing the place up, but a person who when he says something, you can trust he’s telling the truth.

Some guys like to share information, but you must be careful and proceed with caution with the info you receive — even from the guys you’re staying with. There are anglers that will lead you astray and send you down a rabbit hole just to eliminate you from being in contention.

Understand this, bass fishermen are a different breed of people and love nothing more than winning. Oh, we all hope everyone in the house does well, but rest assured, each one of us wants to win!

The next trait I’m looking for in a good roommate on the road is attitude. Nothing is worse than having a guy in the house that has a poor attitude or rubs people the wrong way. It can make for a very long week of fishing when there’s one guy who the rest of the house can’t stand.

There are some guys that are always negative and like to drag others down with them. Fortunately for me, I’ve never had that experience before. But that’s because I choose the guys I’m traveling with very carefully.

The final thing that is very important in a good housemate is if he is financially stable. This can be a problem if one guy can’t pull his weight and pony up the money necessary to take care his share of house expenses.

I’ve always said, “If you can’t afford the expenses involved in tournament fishing like house rent, food, boat gas, entry fees, insurance etc., then you don’t need to be fishing tournaments!”

No one, and I mean no one, has been as fortunate as I have when it comes to great housemates on the road. I have never encountered one angler who I would later think, “He’ll never stay with me again!”

For the last 10 years the guys who have been a part of our road crew are Brett Hortman, Walt Stevens, Adrian James, Brennan Flick and Cole Garrett. These guys are as good as gold and guys that I have nothing but great respect for. Not one time have we had an issue with anyone in the house. I’ve also had the privilege of staying with Albert Collins and Clayton Boulware, who are both great anglers but even better people.

We’ve all had some great tournaments and some that weren’t so good. But the one thing I always knew, I could trust each and every one of them no matter what. Whether it was fixing a flat tire or making repairs on our boats, I could always count on these guys.

I always felt that if one of us was in contention to win, the rest of the house would help in any way we could. Finding guys like these is hard today with so many anglers fishing selfishly.

To wrap this up, if you’re a young angler and getting into tournament bass fishing, choose who you travel with wisely. It will give great peace of mind knowing that if you have a problem, one of your guys will go out of their way to help you.


Rainy weekend ahead

4-H events in May

Red River 4-H is having three events in May. 

  • Pet show- May 16th at 10 AM at the Red River Parish Fairgrounds livestock barn for all 4-H members!  Several categories include cutest, friendliest, best dressed animal and 4-Her, and more!  Animals should be brought in a carrier, or on a leash.  Deadline to register is May 13th.
  • Wetlands and Wheels Day Camp – May 22nd at 9 AM at the fishing pier at Grand Bayou for 4-H members in grades 4-12.  Younger 4-Hers may attend with a sibling or parent.  Cost is $5 for lunch.   LDWF and Louisiana 4-H Wetlands Department will be visiting and sharing activities with us.  Students may bring fishing poles and bicycles, skateboards, skates, or scooters to take a ride in the park.  Deadline to register is May 18th.
  • Deadline to sign up for Summer Camp is May 13th!  Summer Camp is for 4-H members in grades 4-6 and takes place at Camp Grant Walker July 6-9th.  Scholarships available for funding for camp. 

To sign up for any of these activities, call the 4-H office at (318)932-4342.  If you’d like to sponsor a camper and help them make lifetime memories, please give us a call!  

Shared by Red River Parish 4-H


Community Health Fair set for May 15

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

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

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

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

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