No Struggle, No Progress
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He thought that there was a glimmer of hope. After years of trying to put a life-changing experience behind him once and for all, Matthew Sims found out that it wasn’t meant to be. At least not now. Sims has been in a years-long struggle in the judicial system to clear his name and get back on with his life. Sims was arrested almost four years ago after being involved in a domestic disturbance with his then-fiancée, who claimed that he assaulted her. He says that night turned his world upside down as he has spent the remaining years trying to...
The first-grade students of J.S. Clark Magnet School in Monroe, LA, delighted audiences with their performance of the stage play "LOL" (Laughing Out Loud) on Friday, April 12, 2024. Under the direction of Principal Dr. Brian Bush, every student had the chance to showcase their stage presence and talents. Parents, grandparents, and guardians were thrilled to see their young ones shine on stage....
High school seniors interested in applying for the Irma DeTiege Scholarship -email information to [email protected]. Scholarship requirements: biographical essay, recent photograph, contact information, official GPA, high school transcript, class rank and ACT score. Deadline is May 15, 2023. The late legendary Irma DeTiege was a poor girl who moved from a one-room house in Riverton LA to a three-room shotgun house in Monroe LA on North 11th St. There were three beds in each of two rooms...
Louisiana Missionary Baptist State Convention – Women’s Auxiliary St. Joe Baptist Church on 1446 Highway 15 South at Rayville (Rhymes), LA on Saturday April 27, 2024 – 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM Dr. Edward Alexander, Jr. ~Convention President; Sister Ethel F. Mitchell ~ State Director & Sister Rosie Horne ~ Northeast Region Vice Director...
Carroll High School in Monroe, LA, has always been a beacon of hope in our community. Its academic, athletic, band, choir, and STEM legacy was established in 1953 by its first principal, the legendary Morris Henry Carroll, who demanded excellence from students who hadn't yet realized their greatness. The Carroll mystique was set long ago and remains in the hearts of those who witnessed its glory then and now. This is why we still sing praises to Carroll High School. One individual who...
In honor of this important day on Monday, April 22, 2024, the community is invited to celebrate EARTH DAY at Carver-McDonald Branch Library at 2941 Renwick St. in Monroe, LA. Look to see you between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to pick up ONE PLANT to share the wonders of the world, encourage action, inspire hope, and reflect on how we can better care for the ecosystems in our own backyard and around the world. Earth Day is an annual reminder that climate change has a major impact on...
Logtown Missionary Baptist Church 1910 Addie St. in Monroe LA will install their new Pastor Elect Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Robert Gaines, Sr. on Sunday April 21, 2024 at 2:30pm. Special guest is Rev. John L. Russell ll Greater New Antioch Baptist Church in Monroe LA....
A class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of over 4,000 Louisiana foster children against the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), DCFS Secretary David Matlock, and Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry. The suit alleges that the state’s child welfare system, described by the agency's head as in a “death spiral” and “hemorrhaging employees" less than two months ago, is failing its most vulnerable children and urgently needs systemic reform. The 95-page complaint depicts a child welfare system with significantly fewer workers...
On Thursday, April 4, 2024, Wossman High School in Monroe, LA, celebrated the academic and athletic achievements of its 2024 Louisiana State Championship Boys and Girls Basketball teams with a parade in the community. The event, known as the Wossman State Champions' Parade, showcased the school's commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics. Dr. Harrington Watson III serves as the principal of Wossman High School....
New Monroe City Schools Superintendent Sam Moore III certainly has his work cut out for him as he moves the District beyond the Brent Vidrine era. Superintendent Moore was recently selected as the new superintendent on March 14, 2024, coming from within the school district. He has a thorough knowledge of how the District operates, but stepping into the position of superintendent presents a new challenge for his educational skills. Moore won the position over two other challengers, and there...
He thought there was a glimmer of hope. After years of trying to put a life-changing experience behind him once and for all, Matthew Sims found out that it wasn’t meant to be. At least not now. Sims has been in a years-long struggle in the judicial system to clear his name and get back on with his life. Sims was arrested almost four years ago after being involved in a domestic disturbance with his then-fiancée, who claimed he assaulted her. He says that night turned his world upside down as he has spent the remaining years trying to have hi...
A Monroe city employee, known for his unwavering dedication to his job, recently shared his unsettling experiences with the Monroe Dispatch. He recounted instances of alleged intimidation, harassment, and retaliation, possibly stemming from a hint of jealousy among some figures in authority. This employee, a long-standing member of the city workforce, has always strived to excel in his role. He was initially recruited by the Parks and Recreation Department, which now falls under Community Affairs in the Jamie Mayo administration. Starting as a...
Cuba Baptist Church in Bosco, LA, celebrated the 26th Appreciation of Dr. and Mrs. Samuel Toney on Sunday, April 7, 2024. The special guest for the occasion was Pastor Michael Dean from Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in Monroe, LA. A pastor's heart is protective, guarding his flock from satan's snares, while a pastor's wife dedicates her time and devotion to the needs of the church family, a gesture always deeply appreciated....
On Thursday April 18, 2024, from 10AM until 1PM, there will be a Healthcare for Homeless Veterans Mini Expo. The event will be held at the Monroe Veterans’ Administration (VA) Clinic at 1691 Bienville Dr, in Monroe LA. The VA Clinic will provide services to Veterans who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. Our team provides a wide range of program services for Veterans. There will be lots of great information, free blood pressure checks/mini health screenings, refreshments, and giveaways....
(This teacake tasting is the first of its kind in our community and will feature an array of 30 varieties of teacakes, each crafted with precision and care by Taylormade Teacakes. Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in these delectable treats and experience the rich flavors and textures that make teacakes a beloved tradition on Saturday April 13, 2024 (12 pm - 2:00 pm) at Monroe Civil Center Ft. Miro Room 401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expy in Monroe, LA Tickets: $25...
Over Easter weekend, Monroe, LA experienced a surge in shooting incidents, highlighting the ongoing issue of gun violence in the city. Despite the escalating problem, there appears to be a lack of concrete plans to address the root causes. The violence, which was previously concentrated in South Monroe, has now spread to other areas, making it a citywide concern. One such incident took place on Good Friday, March 29, 2024, at the Murphy Oil Gas Station on Lamy Ln. near Walmart, where two adult males were shot. Both victims were transported to...
The Greater Free Gift Baptist Church Young Male Ministry in Monroe, Louisiana, is launching initiatives to empower young men in the community. Despite successes enjoyed by many, issues like gun violence, crime, and educational deficiencies continue to affect the city's youth. To address these challenges, the ministry is organizing forums and a formal event in June to expose young men to positive influences and life skills. The ministry is seeking support from community, political, business, church, and civic leaders to ensure the success of...
There is a lingering concern and disappointment, rooted in the historical struggle for political representation, that surfaces in the mayor's race and even the governor's race, painting a bleak picture for minorities in Louisiana. In the governor's race, Jeff Landry had the name recognition of being the state's Attorney General and challenging (and losing to) John Bel Edwards four years earlier, but the seeds had already been planted. Though Shawn Wilson had been in state government for over...
The Synergy Mixer hosted by the Monroe Regional Black Chamber of Commerce was a harmonious blend of professional networking and social engagement. Black business owners gathered on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at the Monroe Civic Center in Monroe, LA, exchanging ideas and igniting a synergy that propels Black businesses to new heights. Visit our website at www.mrbcc.org....
In the realm of public affairs, the adage "What’s done in the dark will come to the light" underscores the inevitability of transparency and accountability. It serves as a reminder that actions taken in secrecy or obscured from public view are likely to be exposed eventually. This principle is always a cautionary warning to those considering unethical conduct and the public's right to know. In the case of the audit of Monroe City Schools, the results have raised more questions than answers, particularly concerning the management of finances. T...
At Spiritual Harvest Worship Center in Monroe LA on Resurrection Sunday March 31, 2024, the Spiritual Harvest Worship Center's Drama Ministry made a memorable impact with the skit, "The Power of Thanksgiving at the Resurrection Celebration" on Resurrection Sunday which featured church members Molly Norris, LaShelia Jordan, Lee Etta Pegross, Lee Ann Cooper, Kristin Armstrong and Ariel Butler. Also participated Clarence Jones not pictured. Spiritual Harvest Pastors are Bob and Brenda...
Louisiana governor Jeff Landry is in the news, as he had some unkind words to say about the LSU women's basketball team following their loss to Iowa in the NCAA tournament. Somehow, Landry became aware that the Lady Tigers were not on the basketball court during the national anthem playing. Never missing a step to proclaim his love for the country, Landry is now urging the state legislature to draft a bill that he would eagerly sign, revoking the university scholarship of any athlete absent during the national anthem. In a statement, Landry...
Residents of the Francis Tower community, located in downtown Monroe, have reached out to The Monroe Dispatch in the hope that their lone cries for help will be heard by those in the city who can make life a little easier for them. Many residents have lived in the building for years, while others have only been there for a short time. They all share the same complaints about alleged living conditions that they say have persisted for too long. They claim that complaints brought before management...
The Monroe Ouachita Chapter of GUNAA will hold its 23rd Annual Gospel Scholarship Musical Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 7:00 PM First Baptist 507 Swayze Street Monroe, LA. The public is cordially invited to attend this event. Additional information contact Larry Mason at 318-503-5189 or Ezzard Burton at 318-680-9057.In Tiger Spirit Ezzard O. Burton, President...
The Brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. Founded January 9, 1914 at Howard University recently were in attendance at Little Flower Catholic Church in Monroe LA when Deacon Lawrence Houston of St. Peter Claver Catholic Church in New Orleans LA conducted revival services. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity l to r Kenneth Randle, Ricky Melancon, Ronald Wilhite, Deacon Lawrence Houston, George "Vamp" Belton, Orlando Davis, John Preston and Demeatress Randle. Culture for Service and Service for...
A report from an audit of former Monroe City Schools Superintendent Brent Vidrine appears to show that he allegedly submitted false records related to his retirement. The information in question was allegedly submitted by Vidrine himself for the purchase of retirement service. At the heart of the audit is an alleged false receipt from the Teacher’s Retirement System of Louisiana (TRSL) that seems to indicate that Vidrine made a required payment of about $48,184.92 and a false estimate of the cost of purchasing a year of creditable service f...
Neighbors in a quiet neighborhood in the Rayville community continue to be in shock as they mourn the loss of a 14-year-old teen who was killed on Sunday, March 24, 2024. The teen, identified as Suh’renity Butler, was killed when the car she was driving crashed into a tree. According to Louisiana State Police officials, Butler, who was said to have been the driver, did not survive the accident and was pronounced dead by paramedics. Four other teen passengers in the vehicle suffered injuries. The accident has affected the whole community b...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A 20 year-old man wanted on suspicion of murder was arrested by the Morehouse Parish Sheriff Office. According to a Sheriff's Office report, Robert Wilson was the subject of a second-degree murder attempt charge. A shooting that Wilson was allegedly involved in occurred on March 16, 2024, as deputies responded to a crime scene near Ogden Street, according to the report. Deputies found the victim had been shot in the face, as an...
A local community couple says that their protest of working conditions allegedly occurring at Delta Community College in Monroe LA will continue, saying that the community needs to be aware of what their go through on a daily basis. Robert and Samantha Jordan started their protest several weeks ago after she was terminated from her job, followed by her husband being place on administrative leave pending an investigation into alleged threats against employees and creating a hostile work environme...
In the recent Louisiana Special Criminal Justice Session, several bills were passed that will have significant impacts on the state's criminal justice system. House Bill 4, sponsored by Representative Emerson, now Act 10, addresses post-conviction relief procedures. This law makes all present limitations on repetitive applications and time limits for post-conviction relief jurisdictional, meaning they cannot be waived or excused by the court or district attorney. House Bill 5, sponsored by Representative Mike Johnson and sent to the governor,...
March is Women's History Month, an annual observance that highlights the contributions of women to historical events and contemporary society. Recently, Pastor Brian Reed, along with deacons, members, visitors, and friends, took a moment to honor the women of New Tabernacle Baptist Church in Monroe, LA, who have made significant contributions to the history and legacy of the city, state, and nation....
It was a Rooftop Brunch at Nite for the grown and sexy on Saturday March 23, 2024 on the 7th Floor at ULM in Monroe LA with many glamming stars. Gravedigga operated the rooftop Brunch business! The Brunch was kicking while the spirits were gis'am! Photo Rooftop Brunch Chimera White...
In the recent March 2024 elections in Monroe and Richwood, several key positions were decided, shaping the future leadership of these communities. The incumbent Mayor Friday Ellis (I) secured a victory, retaining the mayoral seat for the city of Monroe. Gretchen Ezernack (R) emerged victorious in District 2, earning the councilman seat. Rodney McFarland (D) won the election for District 4, securing the councilman position. The District 5 race will head into a run-off between Kema Dawson (D) and...
The Monroe Chamber of Commerce's 103rd annual meeting and banquet, held on Thursday, March 14, at the Monroe Civic Center, honored William V. Smart, executive director of the Monroe Housing Authority, with the esteemed Rambin/Silverstein Outstanding Leadership and Service Award. This award recognizes individuals for their lifetime contributions to the city of Monroe, Ouachita Parish, and northeast Louisiana....
l The 23rd Annual Gospel Scholarship Musical, hosted by the Monroe Ouachita Chapter of GUNAA, will take place on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 7:00 PM at First Baptist, located at 507 Swayze Street in Monroe, LA. The event is open to the public. This year, scholarships will be awarded in honor of Mr. Mackie Freeze, Mr. Robert Carter, and Mr. Roosevelt Rankins. Donations can be sent to Monroe/Ouachita GUNAA, P.O. Box 156, Monroe, LA 71210, payable to Monroe/Ouachita GUNAA, or via PayPal to [email protected] (please use friends and...
On March 15, 2023, Wossman Lady Cats and Boys Basketball Louisiana 2024 State Champions receive a big donation toward their championship rings from P.E.E.P and former Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo. This is P.E.E.P's second year supporting Wossman State Champions' Basketball. "It's an honor to recognize our young people making a difference in our community," said P.E.E.P. President Kenneth Wilson...
Thank you for your support in our campaign for city council. With your help, we pushed the incumbent into a runoff in District 5, giving us a chance to win. Special thanks to Mondrian Douglas and Mrs. Carolyn Goodin for standing with us. As we head into the general election on April 27, 2024, the control of the city council is at stake. A vote for Muhammad ensures a voice for District 5 and control of the council and its finances. Congratulations to Bishop Rodney McFarland on his win in...
High school seniors interested in applying for the Irma DeTiege Scholarship, email information to [email protected]. Scholarship requirements: biographical essay, recent photograph, contact information, official GPA, high school transcript, class rank and ACT score. Deadline is May 17, 2024. The late legendary Irma Irma DeTiege, by God's amazing grace and mercy, helped many get through the race of life through her inspiration and fortitude. Please donate to the Irma DeTiege Scholarship...
On Sunday March 24, 2024 at Zion Traveler Baptist Church in Monroe LA, Rev. Elbert Taylor fill the pulpit. His sermon "Reminder of Who You Are" was a message of hope. There was more than enough amens and thank you Lord! Rafters fell while those in the pews were refilled....
West Monroe High School's First Black Graduate Jacquelyn Snowden Jones Harvey returned to her old stomping grounds West Monroe LA on Sunday March 17, 2024 promoting her new memoir/book Forged "When Sugar Tastes Like Salt at St. Joseph Baptist Church in West Monroe LA, before family, former classmates, friends and church members. Harvey aka Berette message was strong concerning her faith in the Lord among many others things she spoke about....
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Most of us are taught to help someone when we see them in a situation where they might be in need. That kind of teaching perhaps goes back to the biblical account of The Good Samaritan, where a person in need was passed over by those who could have done something. Since then, people have done things for others in need, sometimes to the peril of their own safety. A local woman who was said to have acted in a similar manner was all...
Congratulations are in order for the men's basketball team at Grambling University as they compete in the college basketball phenomenon known as March Madness. The G-men punched their ticket to be a part of March Madness by winning the Southwestern Athletic Conference on Saturday, March 16, 2024, which gave the team an automatic berth in the NCAA basketball tournament. With that win, the Tigers will make their first appearance in the tournament, a historic achievement for the school and the...
Residents of the southside in Monroe, LA, are growing increasingly fearful due to a spate of alleged robberies and violent attacks near Winnsboro Rd. and Atkinson St. A recent incident on Monday, March 11, 2024, involved a bicyclist who was allegedly robbed, pistol-whipped, and had their bicycle stolen. These crimes appear to be ongoing, occurring frequently in the area. Citizens need to be vigilant in areas that were once considered safe. Criminals are now more desperate and are resorting to violent behavior regardless of the victim's age....
An incident recently occurred where Caderrian White lives, prompting him to call for the aid of law enforcement. When officers from the Monroe Police arrived, he was told that because of his address, there wasn’t anything they could do. It turned out that the Michael Ave. address where White lives was listed as being in the town of Richwood. White became a first-time registered voter about a month ago, as he was looking forward to voting in the upcoming elections. Incumbent Mayor Gerald Brown and the Richwood board of alderpersons are all up f...
The current leadership in Monroe seems eager to promote the idea that crime is on the decline in our city, pointing to the reduced coverage in mainstream media as evidence. However, this raises questions: is this decline real, or merely a convenient narrative? Can we trust only what we're told, ignoring the reality we witness? It's challenging to accept claims of reduced crime when faced with the stark reality of grieving families (fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts and cousins) making funeral arrangements for l...
When does it become okay for a allegedly well-known surgeon to decide which patient should be a casualty of Science? Well, in 1988 it happened allegedly at Glenwood Hospital. When does it become okay allegedly for Fresenius to say there were too many people filing a lawsuit and needed to cut down on that "Number"? Well, they did, in 2012. They "Never Denied" the people that suffered due to their negligence. When does it become okay for allegedly yet another incident at Glenwood Hospital, a new patient was falsely admitted and told not to talk...
Senate Bills Senate Bill 7 by Senator Edmonds (Act 9) requires ignition interlock for first offense DWI for at least six months of any probation, or the entire time that the driver's license is suspended. For a second offense, the court will require that the offender not operate a motor vehicle during the period of probation without an ignition interlock and it must remain on the vehicle for the entire four-year period of the suspension of the driver's license. When a person has a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or above, driving privileges will b...
Jeff Landry has been governor of Louisiana over two months. Two Months may be a short time in a four-year term, but when one looks at what the governor has done after waiting eight years to sit where he currently is now, the next 45 months surely will undo what John Bel Edwards did in 8 years. Landry is as about as right-wing as other southern governors, as he told voters what his intentions were long before campaigning started, perhaps when it became known early who Republicans in Louisiana were replacing Bel Edwards. He led off with his...
The Monroe Ouachita Chapter of GUNAA will hold its 23rd Annual Gospel Scholarship Musical Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 7:00 PM First Baptist 507 Swayze Street Monroe, LA. The public is cordially invited to attend this event. This year’s scholarships will be named in honor of Mr. Mackie Freeze, Mr. Robert Carter, and Mr. Roosevelt Rankins. We look forward to seeing you there. Donations can be mailed to Monroe/Ouachita GUNAA P.O. Box 156 Monroe, LA 71210; payable to Monroe/Ouachita GUNAA. PayPal: [email protected]. (case sensitive c...
The Monroe City School Board selected Sam Moore lll as Superintendent of Monroe City Schools on March 14, 2024. Moore replaces former Superintendent Dr. Brent Vidrine. Congratulations Monroe City Schools' Superintendent Sam Moore lll....