No Struggle, No Progress
No Struggle, No Progress
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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...
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is seeking public feedback at a second meeting to discuss updates on a proposed safety improvement project for US 165 in Monroe, Ouachita Parish. This meeting aims to gather input from residents, elected officials, stakeholders, and other interested parties while providing updated information since the first meeting in April 2023. The project focuses on analyzing and developing improvements for US 165 from Renwick Street to LA 15 (Winnsboro Road), with the goal of enhancing safet...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Details regarding a recent shooting on Hadley St. have been disclosed by the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office. According to the Sheriff's Office, 36-year-old Courtney Burton is the alleged shooter who fired at an Ouachita Parish man, striking him several times. The shooting occurred on September 21, 2024, around 1:50 AM. After being shot, the victim managed to drive himself to a local hospital for treatment. Authorities reported...
The Bookertorian Reunion will take place on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Chennault Park, Shelter 1, located at 8475 Milhaven Rd. in Monroe, LA. The event will run 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM, with participants encouraged to bring tents, lawn chairs, and BBQ grills. DJ Scott Banks will be providing music throughout the day. The festivities will continue with a parade on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at 2:00 PM. The parade will line up at Roy Shelling Elementary School and proceed to Carroll High School in Monroe, LA....
Dr. Brent Vidrine, a northeast Louisiana educator and former superintendent of the Monroe City Schools District, has been indicted. According to a news release, Vidrine was indicted by the Criminal Division of the Office of the Attorney General on October 21, 2024. He faces two counts of Filing or Maintaining False Public Records, two counts of Malfeasance in Office, and one count of Unauthorized Use of a Movable. Vidrine had been under investigation since the start of the 2023-24 school year by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor's Office,...
The Monroe City Council, at its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, confirmed Louis Tolliver as the new head of the city's Public Works Department. Council members voted 4-1 to confirm Tolliver, with council member Bishop Rodney McFarland recusing himself due to a personal relationship with Tolliver. The confirmation occurred without discussion before the vote, a stark contrast to the lengthy process leading up to the final confirmation. This decision may be seen by some...
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, 2024. The 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...
Carver-McDonald Brach Library at 2941 Renwick St., Monroe, LA hosted a community program on Breast Cancer Awareness on Thursday, October 17, 2024, with presenter Dr. Florencetta Gibson, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Over 50 library patrons participated receiving valuable breast cancer information. Library patrons also enjoyed goodies at the program which were right on time! There is no library like Carver-McDonald! Joyce Powell is Carver-McDonald Library Branch Manager. Photo Carver...
P.E.E.P Carver Literacy Support Carver Elementary School in Monroe LA expresses its sincere gratitude to Peep, Inc. for their generous $2,500 donation to the school's Literacy Department. This essential contribution will greatly enhance the department's resources, allowing for the acquisition of new books and technology to support students in developing their reading and writing skills. With these tools, the school will continue its commitment to expanding literacy programs, providing students w...
The Purple Lillie Foundation presents the 2nd Annual Lupus and Autoimmune Disease Healthy Symposium on Saturday October 26, 2024 from 8am until 12noon at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church 500 Swayze St. in Monroe LA. Women and men welcomed. Continental breakfast served....
It still tough being Black as slavery ended in 1865 supposedly. An alleged beating where an unidentified Black Man in Monroe LA suffered blunt force head trauma was very cruel and inhumane. The alleged victim was beaten suffering severe head injuries sometimes Monday October 14, 2024 and then was dumped or thrown from a vehicle at a local hospital. The victim's alleged identity remains a mystery. There is a B.A.L.M. (a spiritual solution to a social problem) in Monroe and the U.S. This collaborative plan encourages citizens, elected and...
A Ouachita Parish woman says that she was wrongly evicted from her apartment over allegedly about her income. The woman said that when she filled out her application, her income was verified through her job which was a low paying one. After living at the complex for about seven months, the woman said that she was allegedly told by apartment administrators that she didn't report her income. But it was alleged that there was another application that allegedly showed the woman having two incomes listed on the day of the application. Where did a "d...
The Wossman High School Class of 1984 celebrated their 40th reunion in conjunction with Wossman's homecoming. The festivities began on Thursday, October 10, 2024, and continued through October 13, 2024, with a kickoff event at Kravin's Restaurant. On Friday, October 11, the Class of 1984 hosted a tailgate during the homecoming football game at Grady Jones Football Stadium. The celebration culminated with a 40th reunion banquet at the Abe E. Pierce Convention Center, where former Wossman teacher...
Carver Elementary School in Monroe LA expresses sincere gratitude to Peep, Inc. for their generous $2,500 donation to the school's Literacy Department. This essential contribution will greatly enhance the department's resources, allowing for the acquisition of new books and technology to support students in developing their reading and writing skills. The check presentation took place at Carver Elementary on Friday October 11, 2024 and was made by Julian Woods, Youth Coordinator, and Kenneth...
Early voting begins Friday, October 18 - Tuesday, October 29, 2024. No voting on Sunday October 20 & 27, 2024. Early voting hours are 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM. Early voting locations: Registrar of Voters, Community Room, 1650 DeSiard St. in Monroe, LA; West Ouachita Senior Center at 1800 N. 7th St. in West Monroe, LA. Be sure to bring identification!...
The Dazzle Dancers captivated the crowd at Wossman High School's Alumni Pep Rally on Thursday, October 8, 2024, at the George Belton Sports Complex in Monroe, LA. The girls delivered an electrifying Hip Hop routine to Ludacris' hit song "Get Back," choreographed by Miss Chelsea Wyatt. Their performance was packed with acrobatics, high energy, and fierce attitudes, perfectly matching the vibe of the song....
A Ouachita Parish couple is upset with the Ouachita Parish School System over the way they were treated by officials at East Ouachita High School. The couple stated that they wanted to register their child at the school, but their experience was anything but professional and cordial. The child's father initially went to the school to handle the registration but was told that because his name was not on the address where the child lives, he could not be listed as a contact in case the school needed to reach a parent or guardian. He was informed...
High school homecomings have become a significant event, particularly in Monroe, LA. Wossman High School celebrated its 2024 Homecoming on Friday, October 11, with Rayvon Alexander crowned as the 2024 Homecoming Queen. Alumni from 1971 to 2023 gathered in their purple and gold attire, proudly displaying their Wossman Wildcat spirit. The homecoming football game featured a matchup between Tioga High School and Wossman High School, where Wossman triumphed with a 38-24 victory. Students, fans, and...
Rev. Brenda Gaston Porter shared her heartfelt testimony, declaring, "I never would have made it without God's grace and His touch on my life. To God be the glory." Recently, St. Peter Baptist Church in Monroe, LA, honored Pastor Porter for 36 years of devoted service. The special guest for the occasion was Rev. Frank Givens from Judea Baptist Church, also in Monroe, LA. Reflecting on her calling, Rev. Porter said, "God saw me and, through His grace, called me to preach the gospel of Christ."...
