No Struggle, No Progress
No Struggle, No Progress
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During this day and time, we have very visible examples of good and poor leadership. I believe that one of the strongest attributes of a good leader is the ability to know that you don't know everything. A good leader knows that one should act based on the facts, and by placing experts around to share their direction and guidance. A good leader is available and has an open-door policy for everyone regardless of ethnic differences, clicks, clubs, or social-economic affiliation. To me, a good...
Bastrop High School held its graduation ceremony for the senior class of 2020 on Friday, May 15. Due to social distancing, the high school was unable to hold a traditional graduation ceremony, so administration, faculty and staff reimagined the tradition and offered their graduates a commencement ceremony they could truly be proud. In the well planned and thought out activity the students along with certain family members gathered in their cars at the high school. Then the automobile caravan...
In times like these when fear, panic and uncertainty is gripping the nation, when social gatherings are becoming smaller and smaller, when citizens are facing isolation, when older citizens are left to endure hours and days of loneliness, we as a nation have to find a way to cope with the Coronavirus pandemic, and tap into our willpower to “hang in there” during such a crisis. Yes, it is expected that things will become worse before they get better, but we are a resilient people. While we have not faced a pandemic of this magnitude or one quite...
Dr. Foluso Fakorede of Bolivar County, MS is doing fantastic work to help people living with Diabetes regain control of their lives without losing any limbs. In 2015, Dr. was drawn to practice medicine in the Mississippi Delta after having a conversation with a friend from Mississippi. During the conversation, his friend mentioned how many amputees one would see if they traveled there, so Fakorede did just that. His discovery led him to move to Bolivar County, MS, where he set up shop with the...
Perhaps, last Friday, May 15, 2020 was the day that many people have been waiting for in order to re-open businesses and other aspects of the state of Louisiana. With this move comes responsibilities from all parties. Mayor Mayo reminds all citizens that by no means is COVID-19 over and caution is the key as we move into this very first phase of re-opening. Mayor Mayo has collaborated resources to provide testing throughout the city for as many citizens as possible. Announcements are available informing all of locations and times of the...
Beginning Monday, May 18, 2020, the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) will begin providing limited office services at eleven locations across the state. The limited services include the issuance/renewal of driver licenses and/or identification cards, ordering a duplicate title, renewing vehicle registrations, and title transfers. It is recommended that customers continue utilizing the OMV website at www.expresslane.org for available online services such as driver license renewals, identification card renewals, official driving records, duplicate...
' Broadway and other New York City theaters may be shuttered but for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf has been open for awards and nominations. The 2019 Public Theater (Artistic Director, Oskar Eustis; Executive Director, Patrick Willingham) remount of the classic Ntozake Shange play, directed by Obie Award-winner Leah C. Gardiner, was honored recently for Outstanding Revival of a Play by the 2020 Outer Critics Circle Awards. The acknowledgment came on the...
Every government entity whether it’s state or local has felt the impact of the havoc that COVID-19 has had on their budget. The City of Monroe and other municipalities have seen their revenue from sale taxes shrink because of spending related to COVID-19. The Ouachita Parish Police Jury met Monday (May18), as it discussed various infrastructure projects that are ongoing and how they will be paid. There are various projects being done on both sides of the Ouachita River, as Parish Engineer Kevin Crosby gave updates on some of the projects in v...
To All Prayer and Healing Services Family and Friends: My Dear Children of God, It's been a while since we have been able to meet. I pray that all things are working for our Good and with God's Grace and Mercy we will be able to meet again in God's House. Let us continue to pray for each other, all "bag" prayer requests, and all those who were affected by the Easter Sunday Tornado, Virus, Bereaved Families, Medical Staff, Police, Firemen, Correction Officers, Public Workers, Store Clerks, etc....
At Carver-McDonald Library 70th celebration in Monroe LA was retired Librarian Mary Smith who served at the library for many years. She along with other former Librarians attended the 70th celebration. Mary was very knowledgeable, patient and courteous to all library patrons during her service at the library. Photo Retired Librarian Mary Smith...
A young man in a sister-city showed no signs of having the virus made a quick visit to some family members. It resulted in him killing his aunt by giving her the virus and put his uncle and wife in ICU. Since you do not know for sure whether you have the virus please protect others by wearing a mask or at least a bandana around your mouth in public. According to CDC when you talk you can spread the virus because the vapors from your mouth can travel thirty feet. That means that you can get it on people’s faces, hair, clothes, and bare skin. D...
The Bryant's Addition Reunion was a gathering of guys who grew up around Johnson Community Center in Monroe LA and those who attended Richwood and Carroll High School. These young men now old schoolers reminisced, laughed, and ragged each other about the old days under Mr. Robert Carter, Legendary Coach Mackie Freeze and the late Coach Dorth Blade. They all grew up in the same neighborhood and fifty years later got together and celebrated the best of times of the 1960's and 1970's broke bread...
4 Census: 10 Minutes will Shape the Next 10 Years While you are at home, please take some time to complete the 2020 Census. By now, everyone should have received a letter in the mail from the U.S. Census Bureau, with a blue letter inside. If you misplaced your letter, or if you are displaced from your home – you can still participate. Go to www.2020Census. gov We need to make sure everyone living in Monroe is counted. The quick 10-minute survey simply takes a count of everyone currently living in your home. The information submitted c...
Ouachita Parish Police Jury President Shane Smiley held a press conference, Wednesday, May 13, 3030, announcing that a COVID-19 mobile self-testing unit will be stationed in Ouachita Parish. "Governor John Bel Edwards and the state of Louisiana recognized the need for more testing in rural and underserved areas, and they are going to offer this testing throughout Region 8," said Police Jury President Smiley. Region 8 is made up of 12 parishes, including Ouachita Parish. Free self-tests will be...
When the washer or dryer breaks down at home, it is a task washing and drying clothes. Not having the comfort of cleaning clothes at home is a real chore, transporting, cleaning, and transporting again. Those accustomed to washing in public know the grind and where to go to be comfortable. Laundromats are a necessity for some but are a burden to others. According to police reports, Suspect Jackie Brown refused to let four victims enter the Laundry Mat at 1111 Orange St. in Monroe, LA. It is...
No one knows when they will be born, nor when God will call you home. That's why we must be so thankful to God or allowing us to live and do our best to enjoy life to the fullest. God has called home my best friend from elementary school (Swayze) to the current day, Mr. Don Zimmerman. It (friendship) began in the fourth grade. I lived on Atkinson Street, and Don lived on Morton Street in the Bryant's Addition neighborhood just a few city blocks from each other. One day, John built a cardboard...
Based on reports, many residents in Ouachita Parish do not believe that the COVID-19 is serious. One would only need to see the number of lives lost and the growing number of cases in Ouachita Parish to understand that the virus is a true threat. Surely, everyone is tired of restrictions and very tired of staying home, but it is necessary to save the lives of others as well as our own. We have an opportunity to have some restrictions lifted and will be able to do some things in the community. We are still cautioned to be safe, wear masks, and...
by Gwendolyn Dickson Tribute to Lizzie Marshall Jackson-Sometimes, there just are not any answers. But, what I do know is that God sees each tear, feels every hurt and understands our need to ask "Why?" Because of His love for us, we trust that in time His comfort and peace will come. God gives us trials but He has promised His protection if we believe and trust in Him. Through all trials, we cast our cares on Him. Lizzie was born on September 29, 1930 in Richland Parish to the parents of Frank...
In what is starting to look like watching the same movie over and over, there was another incident of inmates escaping from the Swanson Youth Correctional Center here in Monroe. According to law enforcement and media accounts, eight inmates escaped from the facility soon after midnight on May 9, as they allegedly were somehow able to get control of a van, and plow through a fence that borders Jackson Street. The fence was breached in about the same spot where an earlier vehicle was used several weeks ago when about a dozen inmates used the...
"Let the good times roll," is a popular phrase that we hear ever so often when people are ready to, well, have a good time. That may well be the sentiment of thousands of Louisianans, now that the state's governor, John Bel Edwards has lifted his stay in place order used to mitigate the COVID-19 virus. Starting Friday, May 15, residents will be able to go to restaurants, beauty/barber shops, and yes, even attend churches under strict State Fire Marshal guidelines. Many around the state thought that Edwards would rescind his order on May 1, but...
One of the most important rights Americans have is the right to vote. This guaranteed all citizens, regardless of their race, would receive equal treatment under the law and not be deprived of their rights. We should vote in support of American democracy from which our ancestors paid a huge price and gave us this freedom in the first place. Voting is important because, without it, citizens would not be able to choose who they think would be the best candidate. Voting is a major responsibility. T...
"I try to keep myself safe, keep my hands clean, but we are at risk. And every time we leave the house, we are [all] at risk," said Bradley Walker. Walker is employed at Sam's Club in Monroe, where he is considered an essential worker. He is keeping an optimistic attitude as he happily works during this challenging time in our world, as we are all faced with creating a new normal way of life....
Olive Branch Baptist Church in West Monroe, LA honored 2020 graduates, Monday, May 11, with an intimate outside ceremony to celebrate them. All in attendance maintained social distancing while at the ceremony. The guest speaker was Attorney Brennan R. Manning, Esq. The 2020 graduates honored were Kentavious Roberson of Ouachita Parish High School, Kennedi Manning of Neville High School, Te'Arra Hull of West Monroe High School, and Genesis Moy of Neville High School. Also pictured with the...
Only God determines when we come and when we leave this world. The hardest part in life to face is death. The road home to glory has no rest stops or off ramps. Hearts are saddened upon the news of the passing of Jacqulyne Perry. She was loved by her family and her Little Flower of Jesus Catholic Church Family. She was a Richwood High School Graduate. Jacqulyn was a sister and a friend to many. Her caring spirit was contagious, where she gave of herself to serve others. She sang in the choir at...
In December 2019, Les Martinique Debutante Ta'Kaira Bryant was presented to society at the Les Martinique Debutante Ball at the Monroe Civic Center B.D. Robinson Conference Hall. Les Martinique Debutante Ta'Kaira Bryant is the daughter of Tara Singleton and Kenneth Bryant....
Getting back in the swing of things, Vel Randle is counting his blessings. Vel had been down but not out. Each day promises great expectations, while prayer is more powerful than money. It's going to be alright especially when you trust in the Lord Photo Vel Randle...
What a journey from a zero to somebody! The legendary late Irma DeTiege was just an ordinary person from Riverton LA. She was raised by a single mother with a sister and brother who worked from dawn to can't see at night. On the farm you could not be shiftless or lazy. It was a difficult era where only the strong survived. Irma DeTiege had no crystal stair. Her work ethic was git it done by any means, no matter the severity or weather. If you didn't work, you didn't eat. Through all the hard...
Use your head... Stop the spread COVID-19 Zack & L.T. are doing their part as front-line workers by wearing their masks and social distancing. Photo Zack & L.T....
Life's memorable moments are treasured and captured at some of the greatest times. Many are remembered while some slip past our memory. Treasure life's moments, praising God for all the good and challenging times, and counting it all as joy! Thanks for the memory Verdine and Emma Williams and Floyd and Gloria Butler. Photo Verdine and Emma Williams and Floyd and Gloria Butler....
Mayor Mayo held a press conference recently announcing the city's plans to reopen the city of Monroe. "With support from the Monroe City Council, my administration is committed to taking the necessary measures to ensure a smart and safe transition into Phase One as we re-open multiple facilities over the weekend. City employees who deal with the public will be required to wear a mask or face covering. We have some rules in place so the public can enjoy the use of these facilities again, with...
A Ouachita Parish woman says that she is feeling good and happy to be alive. Those who know her and anyone else who has been in her shoes would say the same. This particular woman said that her recent bout with COVID-19 has left her with a renewed sense of faith, knowing that it was the hand of God that kept her. She said that one of the things that kept her content during her confinement, was the joy that singing spiritual songs brought to her. She was in a hospital for about six weeks, and she said that all she could think about was,...
Mayor Mayo announced the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law on March 27, by President Donald Trump. The CARES Act Community Development Fund is based on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) formula for Entitlement Cities. The City of Monroe is an entitlement city, and we have been awarded $436,363 in CDBG funds to help address local needs. Mayor Jamie Mayo is pleased to announce the launch of the City of Monroe COVID-19 Small Business Enterprise Loan/Grant, Rental Assistance, and Mortgage...
I have crossed my T's and dotted my I's, and made sure my ducks are in a row I've been on my knees with tears in my eyes, expecting your power would show. I have followed the golden rule, did what you told me to, I've been quick to listen and slow to speak I don't treat nobody wrong, I help the weak since I am strong, because as a man sow shall he also reap. I know ain't nobody coming down, from the clouds, to do for me what I can do So I place both hands on the plow, until eat sweat falls from...
Free Coronavirus Testing Sites in Ouachita Parish I am pleased to inform you that FREE mobile testing for the Coronavirus will be available to residents in Monroe/Ouachita Parish beginning Monday, May 18. Starting next week, and over a four-week period, in Ouachita Parish, we are utilizing the parking lots of local churches, schools, and recreation centers to provide our residents with free mobile testing for the Coronavirus. Governor John Bel Edwards has repeatedly said the availability of more testing is key to us being able to move into...
Storm evacuees start to arrive in northeast Louisiana ahead of Hurricane Laura. Officials in Monroe and West Monroe announced that they will not open any local shelters due to COVID-19 concerns, and do not expect local residents to require any disaster needs. On Wednesday morning, August 26, Governor John Bel Edwards held a press conference outlining the severity of the preeminent storm. The Governor's Wednesday press conference was a follow up of several other press conferences specifically held to address the danger looming as the state...
Two men employed as guards at the Richwood Correctional Center located in the town of Richwood died recently, and their families strongly believe that their deaths could have been prevented. Carl Lenard, 62, and Stanton Johnson, 51, died after contacting COVID-19 while working at the Richwood facility. According to media reports and family members, both men are believed to have contracted virus from detainees (some of whom has been confirmed to have the virus) while working at the facility. The...
Two men employed as guards at the Richwood Correctional Center located in the Town of Richwood died recently, and their families strongly believe that their deaths could have been prevented. Carl Lenard, 62 and Stanton Johnson, 51 died after contacting COVID-19 while working at the Richwood facility. According to media reports and family members, both men while working at the facility are believed to have contracted virus from detainees, some of whom has been confirmed to have the virus. The det...
Things in life often happen very quickly. Before we know it, a decision that we make in a moment of rage can change the direction of our lives, creating a pause or alternate route, and changing things for better or worse. According to police reports, police were summoned to a domestic aggravated battery call at Chestnut Terrance in West Monroe, LA. The victim told police his girlfriend cut him with a knife while they were arguing. It is alleged that the suspect, Shacassity Y. Armstrong told her...
Early Tuesday, May 5, 2020, a vehicle accident on I-20 east near Monroe claimed the life of Johnny Ray Green. News of this tragic accident was reported by State Police Troop F, who responded to the car crash involving an 18-wheeler. The 18-wheeler struck Green's vehicle in the outside lane on the eastbound side of I-20. The truck allegedly struck the vehicle Green was driving, and unfortunately, pronounced dead by Ouachita Parish Coroner's Office. The driver of the 18-wheeler was uninjured and...
Denise was born October 25, 1960 in Fort Worth, TX. She transitioned into eternal rest on Saturday, May 2, 2020, at St. Francis Medical Center. Denise was a proud graduate of Carroll High School Class of 1978. She studied at Louisiana Tech University. She worked as a paraprofessional with the Monroe City School Board (where she worked for 25 years). She retired in May 2018. Denise was a dedicated member of Rose of Sharon Baptist Church. She was loved deeply by her church family (especially the y...
In the Washington, DC region, the late honorable, Marion Barry - the second mayor of Washington, DC, 1979-1991, and again 1995-1999 - stood the test of time. He was best known for coming to the aid of his people in DC despite his imperfections. For the loyalty and allegiance, he rendered to his constituents, he, today, is known as the city's Mayor for Life. When I think of a leader that serves in such a capacity, I think of the mayor of my hometown, Monroe, LA, the honorable James "Jamie" Mayo....
It is difficult when a mother and wife dies, but equally hard for a family when a father and husband dies, especially when the death is just a week later. Family and friends are mourning the death of another Louis family member, Elder Hilton Louis, Jr., who died Wednesday, April 14, 2020. He was Carroll High class of 1966 graduate, and Pastor of Heavenly Traveler Church of God in Christ in Monroe, LA. Rev. Louis recently retired from General Motors in Mississippi in March 2020, after...
Friday, May 1, 2020, was a milestone in the life of Neville's Coach Rankins as he celebrated his birthday. His dedication to his job, helping and assisting students at Neville High School in Monroe, LA, for 56 years is commendable. Having crossed the threescore and twenty is truly a blessing from God. Since around 1971, Coach Rankins has been a Neville High School fixture. What was supposed to be a setback turned to become a blessing for Neville students. Due to the times in which we live with...
There are many beautiful residences in our community, especially in the hood. Houses that are well kept, nicely painted, yards mowed, and creatively decorated. You do not have to ride across Louisville Ave. in Monroe, LA, to see beautiful neighborhoods, they are on the southside of Monroe also! There is, however, lots of trash dumped mostly on the south side of Monroe. Sadly this is often done by residences, sometimes right across the street from their own homes. It is hard to understand how...
After experiencing multiple obstacles in attempting to reach this goal, Monroe's own Mr. Victor Butler is now Dr. Victor Butler. He will be conferred the Doctorate of Education in a formal graduation in August of this year, unless the coronavirus speaks otherwise. A product of Monroe, he was educated in the Ouachita Parish School System, starting at Swayze Elementary and graduating from Richwood High School. He furthered his educational pursuit at Grambling State University, obtaining the...
Citizens should take time to read and listen to all updates from the governor about the Coronavirus and take them seriously. One of the recent reports showed there were 29,140 cases in Louisiana; 1,950 total deaths, and 17,303 people total presumed to have recovered. Those numbers are realistic and probably, have increased since the printing of this article. We all have to go out to work (if we are fortunate enough to have employment), keep essential medical appointments that cannot be...
In December 2019, Les Martinique Debutante Zoe Jackson was presented to society at the Les Martinique Debutante Ball at the Monroe Civic Center B.D. Robinson Conference Hall. Les Martinique Debutante Zoe Jackson is the daughter of Milton and Tiffany Jackson. Photo Les Martinique Debutante Zoe Jackson...
The University of Louisiana System is announcing a special tuition rate for Louisiana adults returning to school to finish their degree though Compete LA. A flat rate of $275 per credit hour will apply to students who qualify through the program. This rate provides an average discount of $450 per course. “This straight-forward pricing model not only offers relief in what it will cost to finish a degree but eases the burden returning adults experience when calculating costs to return to school,” UL System President and CEO Jim Henderson sai...
The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, under the direction of Governor John Bel Edwards, and in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health, has activated a new, web-based program to assist businesses and religious organizations with safely resuming operations as the public health emergency due to COVID-19 continues. “In order for us to move forward and open businesses as safely as possible, it is important that clear guidance is available. This website will help businesses and churches better understand which phase will all...
This week the Louisiana Department of Health and Louisiana Public Health Institute are bringing people together from all points in Northeast Louisiana to have a voice about disparities and the response to a public health crisis in Louisiana. This is our moment to have NELA included in the statewide discussion for next steps. Please register to attend and support the people of Northeast Louisiana on 05/07/20 at 4:00pm. You can register onlineby https://link.zixcentral.com/u/23511037/FtEtOdeO6hGdu161hnsoMg?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F2VUEvVm.Our...
