No Struggle, No Progress
No Struggle, No Progress
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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."...
High School Homecomings have become a big deal especially in Monroe LA. Wossman High School Homecoming was Friday October 11, 2024. Raven Alexander reigned as 2024 Homecoming queen. Wossman Alumni from 1971-2023 gathered in purple and gold demonstrating their Wossman Wildcat Spirit. The homecoming football game featured Tioga High School and Wossman High School where Wossman defeated Tioga 38-24. Wossman Students, Fans and Alumni enjoyed Homecoming 2024! Photo 1 Wossman 1984 Ninice Washington,...
A Ouachita Parish woman is going through an experience that she would not want any parent to go through. Darlessia Williams said that her 11-year-old daughter was arrested and taken to Green Oaks Detention Center for allegedly making threats to students at her school. Williams said that her normally mild-mannered child has been the victim of school bullying, having had to encounter several episodes by other students where no punishment was administered to them. Williams said that the bullying started at the beginning of the school year where...
After years of paying excessive rates to speak by telephone with their family members in Louisiana jails and prisons, the 40,000 families of Louisiana inmates will soon receive relief, thanks to Congress and federal regulators. Effective January 1, 2025, "just and reasonable" charges for calls made to incarcerated people across the nation will be set by the Federal Communications Commission. On that date, calls to and from jails and prisons in Louisiana will drop from 25 cents a minute to as...
Louisiana recently enacted a law that requires all 17-year-olds to be treated as adults in the criminal justice system, reversing previous legislation that raised the age of adult prosecution to 18. The change, driven by lawmakers and law enforcement officials, arguing that prosecuting teens in adult court would reduce violent crime. A recent review of arrests in the state's three largest parishes shows that nearly 70% of the 17-year-olds arrested have not been accused of violent crimes but instead face charges for lesser offenses, such as...
United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Raj Vinodchandra Patel, 34, of New Hampshire, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Dee D. Drell to 51 months in prison for his role in an online scheme to defraud the elderly. On June 20, 2024, Patel pleaded guilty to a one-count indictment charging him with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. In September 2023, an elderly resident in Louisiana encountered a “pop-up” message on their computer screen directing them to call a computer “helpline.” This helpline, however, was ope...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. An argument over clothing led to a physical altercation between two individuals, resulting in one person being arrested and the other injured. According to a report from the West Monroe Police Department (WMPD), on October 7, 2024, at about 12:29 PM, officers responded to a residence on Ransom St. regarding a stabbing incident. Upon arriving at the scene, officers reportedly observed Josiah Avery, identified as the suspect, standing in the doorway of the residence. When he spott...
Ouachita Parish High School celebrated its homecoming festivities from Sunday, September 29, to Friday, October 4, 2024. The week was filled with numerous activities for both students and alumni. Madison Bailey was crowned this year's homecoming queen, and she, along with her court, dazzled in their finest attire at the homecoming game held on Friday, October 4. The Lions won the homecoming game to Franklin Parish by a final score of [51-47]....
Erick Harris, a proud graduate of Grambling State University, Louisiana Tech, and Wossman High School, is embarking on a book tour to promote his new release, Southern Wisdom: 50 Sayings for Everyday Living. The tour includes a book signing event on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at the Carver-McDonald Branch Library, located at 2941 Renwick St. in Monroe, LA. Erick, a former drum major at both Grambling and Wossman High School, is a native of northern Louisiana. He grew up on a cotton and soybean farm near Start, LA, before moving to Monroe for...
Dr. Pamela Drumgole celebrated her Platinum Jubilee Birthday on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Liberty Christian Life Center in Monroe, LA. Surrounded by family and friends, the celebration was filled with joy and warmth. From the beautiful décor to the delicious food and uplifting fellowship, everything came together perfectly to make the event a memorable one. Loved ones came together to honor Dr. Drumgole, and the atmosphere was one of happiness and gratitude for her milestone...
Little Flower of Jesus Catholic Church in Monroe, LA, celebrated its Family and Friends Day on Sunday, August 4, 2024. The event centered around the theme, "We Are All the Same!" emphasizing the shared belief in worshiping the same God, even as religious practices may differ. Invited guests and friends participated in the unique Catholic worship service at Little Flower, with a strong turnout. Photo Family and Friends 1 -Brice, Roy, Williams first Row l to r Charles A. Stevenson lll, Camille...
Grambling State University will host its annual High School Day on Saturday, November 9, 2024, in Grambling, LA. High school students interested in attending can obtain registration forms from their guidance counselors. Parents or guardians are required to sign the permission slip and return it to the guidance counselor by November 1, 2024. The registration fee, which includes a game ticket, meal ticket, and T-shirt, is $30 per person. On-site registration will also be available. The Monroe-Ouachita Chapter of GUNAA is offering to cover the...
Cissy Houston, 91 Born Emily Drinkard on September 30, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey. Mrs. Houston rose from the ranks of the family Gospel group, the Drinkard Singers, to become one of the recording industry’s leading studio vocalists. Her resume includes leading the Sweet Inspirations as well as providing background vocals on recordings by Elvis Presley, Luther Vandross, Burt Bacharach, Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warwick who was her niece. Mrs. Houston was a two-time Grammy-winning soul and gospel artist. She was also a cousin to Leontyne Price...
It has been over five years since Ronald Green died at the hands of Louisiana State Troopers on a night when he should have lived. Some argue that he was a fugitive from justice, suggesting that if he had stopped his vehicle when confronted by an officer in Monroe instead of fleeing to Morehouse Parish, the outcome might have been different, but does that justify his death, especially when he eventually surrendered to the officers? Was his life worth losing when he offered no resistance, pleading for his life, only to be brutally beaten by...
A verbal argument escalated into a physical altercation between an intoxicated girlfriend and a mother, who fought with a victim and her son on September 28, 2024, in Monroe, LA. The non-live-in girlfriend, identified as Brianna Hutchinson, struck the victim in the face twice and poured beer on him. When police arrived, they detected a strong odor of alcohol on Hutchinson. After police made contact with Hutchinson, she attempted to retreat inside her residence, shutting the door behind her. An...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A shooting that occurred on I-20, resulting in the death of a female victim, has led to the arrests of three suspects. The shooting took place in May 2024. Officers from the Ruston Police Department (RPD) responded to reports of gunfire near Exit 84 on I-20. Upon arrival, they found a female who was unresponsive. The victim, identified as 18-year-old Halee Newton, was taken to a local medical facility where she succumbed to...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office (OPSO) has captured one of the alleged shooters involved in a shooting in the Swartz area. According to the Sheriff's Office, on September 28, 2024, deputies responded to an area near Smoker's Express located on Hwy 139 in reference to the shooting. No injuries were reported. When deputies arrived, the suspects had already left the scene. However, during their investigation, deputies were...
