No Struggle, No Progress
No Struggle, No Progress
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During the 85th Church Anniversary celebration at Zion Spring Baptist Church in Monroe, LA, on Sunday, November 3, 2024, the church recognized its dedicated Sunday School teachers. Honorees included Pastor Ricky James, Sister Diane Berry, Sister Elaine Green, Deacon Melvin White, and Superintendent Melvin Martin....
According to Monroe Dispatch sources, a drive-by shooting allegedly occurred at an apartment complex on the south end of Rogers St. in Monroe, LA. The incident took place on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, startling nearby churchgoers with the sound of continuous gunfire. One individual reportedly attempted to leave the area but was forced to retreat back into the church, terrified by the escalating gunfire. Sources indicate that law enforcement responded quickly to the scene, though it was initially unclear if anyone had sustained gun-related...
Some employees of the Monroe City Schools District (MCS) may find themselves frustrated after receiving their November 2024 supplemental sales checks without the proper federal taxes withheld. Due to this oversight, employees will now have to determine how much they owe the IRS and handle those payments themselves. Sources report this is not the first time the district has failed to withhold taxes correctly, placing an undue burden on employees whose responsibilities do not include accounting. Reportedly, this is the third incident involving su...
Senate Bill No. 2 (SB 2) proposes a significant shift in Louisiana’s juvenile justice system. The bill seeks to amend the state constitution to give the legislature the authority to determine which offenses committed by juveniles can be transferred to adult court for prosecution. Currently, only a defined list of serious offenses, such as murder or aggravated rape, are eligible. If passed, SB 2 would remove this limitation, allowing the legislature to expand the list to include any crime, provided it is approved by a two-thirds legislative v...
Hearts are heavy with sorrow at the passing of Joseph Evans. He was a remarkable individual who deeply valued his wife, family, and community. A pillar of strength within his church and neighborhood, Evans' kind and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His life was a shining example of doing things with integrity and order. Joseph Evans departed this life to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, and his absence will be deeply felt in the Bastrop, LA community....
Mt. Nebo Rosenwald Elementary School at the corner of Jackson St. and Thomas Ave in Monroe LA celebrated their 100th Anniversary on Sunday November 10, 2024. In commemoration of the 100th anniversary a historic marker was unveiled in its memory. The Mt. Nebo Elementary School was one of 4,997 schools in 15 states that was built as a result of the joint effort of Jewish-American Julius Rosenwald (Co-owner of Sears & Roebuck) and Booker T Washington starting in 1912. Mt. Nebo is the first...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. An Ouachita Parish firefighter was injured during a high-speed pursuit near Crawdaddy's Restaurant on Hwy 165 on Friday, November 15, 2024. According to the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office (OPSO), the alleged suspect, later identified as Joseph A. Seay, was reportedly fleeing from Morehouse Parish Sheriff's Office deputies while heading toward Ouachita Parish. At the time, firefighters and parish authorities were managing an...
The Monroe-Ouachita NAACP Branch held its bi-annual election on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Only members in good standing for at least 30 days prior to the election were eligible to vote. Members selected branch officers and executive committee representatives. The branch elected Cliff Thomas as President for the 2025-2026 term. Thomas, a community activist, is also the senior pastor of Victory Through Christ Worship Center in Monroe, LA. Speaking to the Monroe Dispatch, Thomas shared his...
The Carver-McDonald Branch Library, located at 2941 Renwick St. in Monroe, LA, hosted a community program featuring a book talk and signing for author RaShad Bristo's new book, "Bitter or Better: Doing More with Less!" on Thursday, November 14, 2024. RaShad Bristo, a native and resident of Mansfield, LA, shared his inspirational journey. As a child, RaShad dreamed of becoming a police officer, a goal he pursued after earning a BA in Criminal Justice from Grambling State University. Hired and dep...
The NOVA Meet & Greet will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM on the 1st floor of Tower Place, located at 1500 N 19th St., Monroe, LA. This reception is designed to connect business professionals and community leaders with NOVA participants in a meaningful way. The event provides a setting for participants to demonstrate and apply the skills they have acquired as they prepare to enter the workforce. For more information, contact 318-855-1923 or email [email protected]....
Seigle Community Baptist Church at 100 Short Pink St. in West Monroe LA will honor Rev. & Mrs. William L. Cann on Sunday December 1, 2023 at 2pm. Special guest is Rev. Harry Anderson Trenton Baptist Church in West Monroe LA....
In keeping her commitment to serve the citizens of Ouachita Parish, Clerk of Court Dana Benson has initiated the transition to a paperless system. The new system at the Ouachita Parish Clerk of Court's Office will be implemented on January 1, 2025. Following the Louisiana Legislature's enactment of legislation (Acts 2024, No. 694), which mandates that all documents filed in Clerk of Court offices must be submitted electronically, the system will undergo an upgrade before the law takes full effect on January 1, 2026. Under this law, no Clerk of...
This November 2024, we celebrate the birthdays of two remarkable individuals, Vitus Shell and his mother, Faye Lemons, both legends in our community. Vitus, an acclaimed artist, has inspired and touched the lives of thousands through his creative work, while Faye, renowned for her exceptional culinary skills, has brought joy to countless students with her top-tier cooking. Grateful and blessed, they celebrate their special days this month-Vitus on November 20 and Faye on November 23, 2024....
Birthday Fellowship Club donated backpacks to children in need. Backpacks were donated toe Lincoln Parish Christian Community Center in Ruston LA on October 16, 2024....
Why? (Another Look at The Electoral College) Now that the president elect has met with the sitting president, many people understand that there is another “step” in the process used to determine the next president of the United States. Many of those people also understand the next “step” involves something known as “the electoral college”. But what many people don’t understand or know is WHY? Why do we have or utilize the electoral college process”? More than two centuries ago, the United Stat...
Sunrise May 11, 1952 Sunset October 16, 2024 Sister Viola Bradley Bias was born May 11, 1952 in Monroe LA to the late Zella Mae Bradley and O.C. Bradley. Throughout her life, Viola demonstrated unwavering dedication and active participation in church, starting at an early age. Her journey took her to Milwaukee WS and Champaign IL. She retired from the Danville Correctional Center in Danville IL, where she served as a correctional officer supervisor in the facility's cafeteria utilizing her culin...
A Black businessman in Richwood believes he is being unfairly targeted, as his business has been repeatedly shut down by town officials. Breaux's Kitchen and Cocktails was recently closed due to alleged water issues. When the owner attempted to resolve these issues, he was initially told that Code Enforcement was “not available,” only to be informed later that the water issues had “been resolved.” However, by then, it was too late for him to open during a busy weekend, resulting in a significant loss of revenue. After reopening, the busines...
United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Nocalm Robinson, 32, of Monroe, LA, has been sentenced to 60 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing firearms. United States District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Robinson, who was indicted in March 2024 on charges of being a felon in possession of firearms. The charge stemmed from an investigation into a burglary that occurred on December 4, 2023, in East Whelen, AR. During the burglary,...
The Monroe City Schools Board took several steps regarding Neville High School's request to convert to a Type 3 charter school at its meeting on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. On October 25, 2024, the Monroe City School Board (MCS) received a charter application from Neville Charter Association, Inc., requesting to convert Neville High School into a Type 3 charter school. By definition, a Type 3 charter school is created when the local school board approves a charter applicant's request to convert an existing school within the school district...
Laws prohibit shooting guns within city limits, as stray bullets can unexpectedly injure or kill people. Anyone in an area where there is gunfire is at risk. When a gun is fired, a bullet can penetrate windows or walls in residences without warning. Law enforcement raced to south Monroe to investigate reports of numerous shots fired. A shooting was reported in south Monroe late Tuesday, November 12, 2024, prompting deputies to respond. According to the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office, deputies responded near Deloach and Miller Streets. in Monr...
Presidential candidate Kamala Harris reiterated, “We’re not going back,” but one wonders: did voters hear and understand that message? Is it merely a coincidence that racist text messages were sent to Black and Brown individuals, particularly young people, a day after the presidential election? That is a question many in the justice system, whether state or federal, seem unprepared to answer. Is it surprising that such messages would surface across multiple states, targeting minorities? The texts, addressed by name to many young people of co...
Greater Free Gift Baptist Church in Monroe LA applauded Bishop Rodney and First Lady Nikki McFarland for their service to God and the church on Sunday November 10, 2024. Special guest was Rev. Brian Reed New Tabernacle Baptist Church in Monroe LA. Photo Bishop Rodney and Nikki McFarland...
A retirement celebration for Naomi Jackson, Housing Administrator for the Housing Choice Voucher Program, was held at the Monroe Housing Authority in Monroe, LA, on Friday, November 9, 2024. Ms. Jackson celebrated 26 years of service with a large gathering of family, friends, landlords, and past and present co-workers. She leaves with the hope that her years of service have made a positive impact on the community....
The Carver-McDonald Branch Library, at 2941 Renwick St. in Monroe, LA, will host an educational community program presented by Ellen Moynihan from the Alzheimer’s Association on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Attendees will learn about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other key information to recognize and understand these conditions. The program will cover essential topics such as: the differences between normal aging and Alzheimer’s, common warning signs, the importance of early detection and the benefits of diagn...
United Way of Northeast Louisiana is excited to announce a meaningful collaboration with 88.7 The Cross, Royal Family Kids NELA, and the Louisiana Foster Care Support Organization—a ministry of the Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home and Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home—to support foster children and families in the Monroe DCFS region this Christmas. This partnership aims to bring joy and holiday cheer to children and youth in foster care, as well as to adopted and biological children within these families. Thanks to the generosity of the Nor...
Pine Hill Baptist Church Brickyard Community in Rayville LA showed mothers' appreciation service recently honoring two mothers for their many years of church service, dedication and their church commitment. Deacon Art "Silver Fox" Edwards presented the mothers tokens of gratitude. Knowing these mothers for over 65 years has been a rich experience for the church and me personally," according to Deacon Edwards. Photo Pine Hill Baptist Mothers l to r Mrs. Georgia Mae DeJohnette (retired minister...
Detrick Massey dedicated 24 years of her life to the state of Louisiana, working for the Office of Juvenile Justice (OJJ) at the Swanson Youth Facility in Monroe. Massey would still be working as a Shift Manager/Juvenile Justice Specialist 5 (supervisor) if she had not been forced to retire in May 2024. In May 2022, during a riot at the facility involving two dormitories, Massey severely injured both of her knees, which ultimately required surgery in December 2022. A total knee replacement was performed on her right knee. According to Massey, s...
On Friday, November 1, 2024, Neville High School celebrated Senior Night at Bill Ruple Stadium in Monroe, LA, during the West Monroe football game. Neville seniors and their parents filled the field from north to south as they were honored for their contributions as Bengal Belles, cheerleaders, Tigerettes, and band members. Congratulations to all Neville seniors!...
There are many ways to settle differences. Many times, instead of settling a disagreement by violence, a calmer approach would be better. When two people are fighting, its difficult to determine who’s right or wrong. Its okay to walk away, yet hard for many to do. When law enforcement arrives, then its too late, costly while someone or all parties involve face an unknown dilemma. According to police reports on Tuesday November 5, 2024, a disturbance occurred between girlfriends suspect Tamiah Coleman and Charnesha Robinson. With the benefit o...
Ms. Johnnie Lee Butler, fondly known as "Ms. Bee," was born Josie Bell Jefferson on August 13, 1936, in Richland Parish, Louisiana. She was the fourth of fifteen children born to Bobby and Sarah Johnson-Jefferson. Delivered by a midwife, as was customary in those times, Ms. Bee's early life was a reflection of her era and community. Her family lived on Bob Rhymes Place, a property from the post-slavery era, and survived through a barter system, working the land to meet their needs. Growing up, M...
Wossman High School Class of 1984 celebrated their 40th reunion in conjunction with Wossman's homecoming. The celebration kicked off on Thursday, October 10 - October 13, 2024, at Kravin's Restaurant in Monroe, LA. Friday, October 11, Wossman Class of 1984 tailgated at the homecoming football game at Grady Jones Football Stadium. A 40th reunion celebratory banquet was held at the Abe E. Pierce Convention Center where former Wossman Teacher/Sponsor, Mrs. Ola M. Tennant was guest speaker. Also in attendance was the legendary Coach George...
The community is invited to join the festivities on November 10, 2024, at 2:00 PM to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the historic Mt. Nebo Elementary (Rosenwald) School. A preliminary celebration took place in August 2024 with the unveiling of a temporary marker. The school, which first opened on November 10, 1924, will be honored with the official marker unveiling on the original school grounds, now the Mt. Nebo Playground, on November 10, 2024, at 2:00 PM. Classmates, graduates, friends, and Monroe residents are encouraged to come...
A lawsuit filed by the state of Louisiana against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) for the town of Richwood should raise concerns among citizens due to the potential for serious health risks. The health concern involves an individual at the Richwood ICE facility who allegedly has a drug-resistant form of tuberculosis, potentially exposing other detainees at the facility. The infected individual is described only as a Asian woman apprehended at the southern border in California in September before being transferred to...
The National Society of Leadership and Success at Louisiana State University (LSU) recently announced the nomination of Cypress Washington to its esteemed organization. A native of Monroe, Louisiana, Cypress is the daughter of Ronnie "Big Pill" Washington and the late Cynthia Walker. The society recognizes students who demonstrate exemplary leadership skills and academic achievement, and Cypress's nomination reflects her commitment to both. Her family and community are proud of her...
There's no place in the world like the Booker T. Community in Monroe LA. The idea of a Booker T. Reunion had been discussed for quite some time, but it needed someone to take the initiative to make it a reality. When Anthony Jordan approached Quateadra Smith about organizing the event, the team eagerly agreed to move forward. The Bookertorian Reunion and Parade took place over the weekend of October 25-26, 2024. Saturday's festivities were held at Chennault Park, while the parade on Sunday...
Shirley Menyweather is celebrating another blessed and grateful year, giving thanks to the Lord for her birthday and looking forward to many more to come. Wishing Shirley a very happy birthday on Friday, November 8! With love from Mona, her family, and friends....
During a recent service at Faith Harvest Baptist Church in Monroe, LA, Pastor James E. Jackson Sr. delivered an inspiring message, urging the congregation to maintain faith and trust in God regardless of their circumstances. The service was filled with vibrant singing, wonderful prayers, and powerful preaching, creating a moving atmosphere of praise and worship. The energy was palpable as attendees lifted their voices, giving God the glory. Photo 1 - Pastor James E. Jackson Sr. delivering the...
By Eddie D. Gillis The last remaining Louisiana State Trooper who allegedly was implicated in the death of Ouachita Parish motorist Ronald Greene, is a free man. Kory York was one of the troopers allegedly seen in a video savagely beating Greene after he had surrendered to authorities on a May 10, 2019 night following a chase that wound up in Union Parish. York, who was charged with Negligent Homicide, pleaded "no contest" to eight misdemeanor counts of Simple Battery in a Farmerville courtroom. Though this will be seen as a conviction (the...
Blacks are under attack at an alarming rate, and no community is safe from gun violence. If this vicious cycle continues, future generations will perpetuate the violence. Over time, Blacks could become a slim minority if these trends persist. We must not wait for others to save us; we must act now to save our youth while there is still a B.A.L.M. available to help. Another family will mourn, and another will face the loss of a loved one to life in prison. When will we stop this vicious cycle? Shootings continue to reverberate across northeast...
Securing a job or internship is a vital step in gaining experience and building a successful career, but timing is everything. Whether you're a high school or college student, understanding when and how to apply for internships can greatly improve your chances of landing the right opportunity. Many companies start their recruitment process for summer internships as early as September - November, so it’s crucial to begin your search early. For positions during the academic year, opportunities typically open closer to the start of each s...
Congratulations to Macy, Sallie Humble Elementary's 2024-2025 Student of the Year in Monroe, LA, on achieving this prestigious honor! Macy is celebrated by her proud parents, Michael and M. Courtney Spencer, her sister, Madison Spencer, her grandmother, Laura Ann Blunt Spencer, her uncle and aunt, Marcus and Sarah Spencer, and her cousins, Alex M. Spencer and Haley M. Spencer....
The idea of a Booker T. Reunion had been discussed for quite some time, but it needed someone to take the initiative to make it a reality. When Anthony Jordan approached Quateadra Smith about organizing the event, the team eagerly agreed to move forward. The Bookertorian Reunion and Parade took place over the weekend of October 25-26, 2024. Saturday's festivities were held at Chennault Park, while the parade on Sunday began at Roy Shelling Elementary School and ended at Carroll High School in Mo...
A Ouachita Parish road infrastructure project where the goal is to improve safety on Hwy 165 in the Monroe area, appeared to move one step closer. A second meeting was held in the gymnasium at Wossman High School to give concerned residents another opportunity to ask questions and voice their concerns as the project moves forward. The project's improvements on the major north-south artery will consist of sidewalks, crosswalks, changes to existing median openings and the construction of j-turns....
Ouachita Parish Residents can bring recyclable items to the Monroe Civic Center on Saturday, November 2, 2024 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM as part of "American Recycles Day"....
As we continue to navigate the complexities of health and wellness in Northeast Louisiana, one truth remains undeniable—mental health is the cornerstone of our community's well-being. At Northeast Delta Human Services Authority (NEDHSA), we understand that when individuals and families face significant health challenges, like breast cancer or domestic violence, the toll is often more than just physical. The emotional and psychological burden can be equally overwhelming. October is a particularly significant month as we recognize both Breast C...
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry’s newly proposed tax reform agenda has stirred significant debate, with critics warning of potential negative consequences for public services and economic equity. A key element of the plan is the reduction of income taxes, which would lower the tax burden on most Louisiana residents. However, this move is expected to decrease the state’s overall revenue, potentially forcing cuts to essential services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure—sectors that are heavily reliant on state funding. The propo...
IT "AIN'T OVER" UNTIL IT'S OVER-Pt. 1 (A Look At What's After Super Tuesday) *** With Super Tuesday having come and gone, primaries and caucuses having come and gone, and early voting having come and gone, Americans everywhere are awaiting the outcome of the United States Presidential election on November 5, 2024. At the close of the polls on that day, it might be wise to remember ... "It Ain't Over .... Until It's Over"! For sure, it must be remembered that on "election day" (November 5, 2024)...
Zion Spring Baptist Church in Monroe 8th Pastoral Anniversary was recently honoring Pastor Ricky L. and First Lady Linda James with special guest Pastor Montrell Bradley Macedonia Baptist Church in Monroe Escorts were Zion Spring Baptist Church King and Queen Malcolm Sims and Charlacis Green. The Word of God, Pastor Bradley spoke was "Ministry gets Messy!" thanks to all our awesom friends, family and well-wishers for your support. Photo 8th 1- Pastor Ricky L. and First Lady Linda James Photo...
A Richwood businessman is bewildered by actions taken against him by the town that severely curtailed his weekend revenue. The business, located on Hadley St. right at the cusp of Monroe, but in Richwood, was abruptly closed on Friday, October 18, 2024, by Richwood Code Enforcement. According to the business owner, he received a notice from town officials stating that he didn't have the necessary water supply to operate his food business and, therefore, it would have to close. When he went to...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Two men are behind bars for their alleged involvement in a series of thefts committed at area Dollar General stores. According to law enforcement authorities from Ouachita and Lincoln Parishes, the suspects, identified as 29-year-old Jeremy Hardyway and 32-year-old Dominique Richards, have been arrested in connection with the thefts. Authorities stated that on at least two occasions, the suspects entered the Dollar General...
