Local News - Miss-Lou Magazine

Sheriff David Hedrick See our CPSO Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CPsheriff.

Shots fired

Ferriday police and Concordia deputies responded to shots fired in the Woodland subdivision near Delta Charter School on Friday. No one was injured, and the perpetrators were not found. This week, a shooting occurred at Holiday Apartmentsin Natchez and a second shooting on Foster Mound Rd. in which a man was wounded. There was a third shooting. On Oct. 12, a man was shot and wounded on Gloucester Court. He was airlifted out for medical treatment. Police and deputies have not announced any arrests so far. The shootings did not appear to be related.

Natchez employs a few contractors to do landscape maintenance. Alderwoman Valencia Hall complained that the contractor assigned the keep up Woodlawn was doing a poor job. The grass is overgrown and a flower planting is full of weeds. Despite Hall’s complaint, aldermen voted to pay the contractor anyway.

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation arrested 26-year-old Taevion Doss in connection to the shooting incident that occurred at Alcorn State University on October 11. Doss has been charged with murder, two counts of aggravated assault, and possession of a weapon on school property. This remains an open investigation.

Carla Munroe

Carla Monroe, director of the Natchez Seniors Center, said her goal continues to be to give seniors the daycare they need, with activities, food, socialization, and companionship. Monroe said that having a good program helps delay or keep seniors completely out of institutional care. She’ll be traveling to a national conference in Chicago shortly to learn more techniques that might be helpful for her work in Natchez. Much of the funding for the seniors center comes from the federal government. The seniors center will sponsor an Oktoberfest Day October 24 on the Bluff from 9 AM to 2 PM. Admission is free and activities are planned.

Alderpersons Felicia Irving and Billie Joe Frazier have both complained they’re not getting monthly financial figures and reports on a timely basis. Irving said the city clerk sometimes provides the figures and sometimes not. Irving said putting the figures last minute in the aldermen’s packets on late Monday does not give the aldermen enough time to review them, especially when there are dozens of pages of finances and other of business to review before the aldermen meet. Irving wants to review the lengthy claims docket in detail. Irving often finds items that are overlooked or shouldn’t be paid or items where the amount to be paid is not stated correctly.

Natchez aldermen appointed Sheila Duffy-Lehmann and William Fred Marsalis to the Natchez Convention and Promotion Commission. The commission oversees the Visit Natchez promotional programs. Natchez resident Carl Hayes II spoke to Aldermen complaining about the rude and unprofessional way he was treated at the police department. Hayes said he wanted to sign an affidavit of complaint after the son of an Adams County deputy threatened him. But instead he was threatened by police with arrest. Alderman Billie Joe Frazier agreed with Hayes that the department needed improvement. Mayor Gibson gave Hayes his business card and asked Hayes to meet with him privately.

Marie Clanton

Franklin County Deputy Marie Clanton is her department’s first certified female deputy. She graduated from the SRPSI academy early this year.

MBI has arrested 26-year-old Taevion Doss in connection to the shooting incident that occurred at Alcorn State University on October 11. Doss has been charged with murder, two counts of aggravated assault, and possession of a weapon on school property. This remains an open investigation.

Jonesville Mayor Loria Hollins said her town continues to use a state Block Grant to repair streets. The work should be complete by Nov. 1. Those streets getting improvements include Branch, 5th, 6th, 11th, Main, Willow, Fritz and Collins Drive.

Two solar farms

Another solar farm may locate in Concordia, about five miles northeast of Ferriday. Azimuth Energy of St. Louis wants to build a 20 megawatt producing farm on 150 acres. In July 2025, the police jury announced that a $250 million solar project had been finalized in Concordia Parish for NextEra Energy Resources, a Florida company. Both projects may qualify for PILOT. The developers benefit by receiving a property tax exemption during the life of the agreement on the overall improvements to the property (land value is still subject to property taxes). In lieu of this, the developer would be responsible for paying an annual service charge/PILOT payment, which is defined in the agreement. This PILOT payment is generally lower than the property tax amounts, helping to improve the net operating income of the developer and, in turn, encouraging them to enhance the property and raise its fair value.

Natchez aldermen expect to open bids in December to demolish the Fry Building, with work starting in March. The city will construct a parking lot at the site as part of the Eola Hotel's plans to renovate.

Jefferson County has not filed its 2020-2024 CPA audits. Bridgers CPAs submitted the audit in Dec. 2024 for the year 2019. The figures are so old and out of date to be meaningless. The county is late submitting its 2020-2024 audits. 2019 findings: Supervisors did not approve a list that specifies those individuals with authority to sign purchase requisitions and receiving reports for each department. Public officials failed to properly disclose the circumstances justifying an emergency purchase culvert. The inventory clerk did not conduct an annual inventory and provide a report of such to the clerk of the Board. The clerk of the Board did not maintain a copy of the report on file and did not file a copy with the Office of the State Auditor. The purchase clerk failed to properly maintain the purchasing schedules. The county has failed to establish and maintain an adequate internal control system to ensure compliance with the State of Mississippi policies and procedures with reference to the public purchasing laws: 17 major purchases were made without proper documentation. The county replied by saying it would fix the problems.

CATAHOULA SHERIFF'S OFFICE: 100 Pine St., Harrisonburg, 318-744-5411; CATAHOULA CORRECTIONAL CENTER, 499 Old Columbia Rd., Harrisonburg, 318-744-2121. Protecting the People and Property of Our Communities. Our deputies and investigators welcome anonymous tips. Let us know if you see a crime in progress or know of ongoing criminal activity. Sheriff Toney Edwards. The sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer for the Parish and he and his staff are responsible for: investigating crimes, making arrests, enforcing traffic regulations on parish roads, serving writs, collection and distribution of court fines, tax collection, communicating with other law enforcement agencies, operating the correctional center and other duties authorized by the State of Louisiana.

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Kudzu Kings

The 40th Annual Natchez Balloon Festival will take place October 17-19. Balloon flights at 7 a.m. Friday, and 7:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday (weather permitting). Festival kicks-off at 4 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. Sunday on the grounds of Rosalie Bicentennial Garden, 100 Orleans Street. Three entry gates are located on Broadway Street, Orleans Street, and behind Rosalie. Holders of pre-purchased tickets have access to a fast-track entry lane. No waiting required. Tickets may be purchased online or at Historic Natchez Foundation, 108 South Commerce Street. Friday General admission: $20. Saturday General admission: $35 in advance, $40 day-of. Saturday VIP: $130 in advance, $155 day-of. Sunday, General admission: $10. Weekend Pass, General admission: $45 in advance, $55 day-of. Weekend VIP: $325 in advance, $375 day-of. Children ten and under are free. Top entertainers and groups will perform including The Velcro Pygmies, Galactic, Mother's Finest, Vasti Jackson, Labe Hardy, Candace Bush Band, Kudzu Kings, The B3 and The Vagabonds. For more info and tickets go to natchezballoonfestival.com.

Ferriday has fired Police Chief Derrick Freeman. Freeman didn’t tell town officials that he planned to work at Alcorn instead of working the Ferriday Homecoming. A fight broke out at the Homecoming and Freeman was not there to supervise his officers. The town has appointed Richard Madison to be Police Chief. Madison is currently a Catahoula Parish deputy. In Ferriday and other Louisiana towns with an appointed chief, the mayor appoints the chief, and the town council approves the appointment.

Bond was set at $350,000 for a suspect charged in a Oct. 4 shooting that left one person dead and two more people wounded. Roeland Williams, 24, turned himself into authorities at the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department on Oct. 8, according to Sheriff Tom Tindle. Williams was wanted in a shooting incident that occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4 on Mildred Davis Road. The shooting led to the death of 26-year-old John Lee Starks III. Another person suffered life-threatening injuries and was in critical condition while another victim suffered non-life threatening injuries. The names of the two wounded persons were not released.

Vidalia events

Big River Fall Festival comes to Vidalia Riverfront October 11-19. General Admission is free! Select attractions require a ticket purchase. This celebration brings the community together with an exciting lineup of live musical performances, professional skydiving demonstrations, helicopter rides, petting zoo, bass tank demos, dog demos, Vidalia Riverfront Flea Market & Carnival, food/beverages, and more family-friendly attractions. And Tandem Skydiving Opportunities for the adventurous. For further details on Skydiving click here: https://www.facebook.com/share/171gvexjrQ/ Festival Schedule:

Thursday, October 16, 5:00pm: City of Vidalia Amphitheatre – VIP NIGHT!!! (Bring your own chair), Lloyd “Hurricane” Munn and the Forecasters, VIP “Turf & Surf” Appreciation Dinner – Sponsored by Honey Brake Lodge and C & M Crawfish. 6:00pm: Skydive Demonstration w/Flags, Smoke & Pyrotechnics. Welcome Address – Mayor Buz Craft – City of Vidalia. 6:30pm: Jason Reynolds - Fish N’ Fetch Bass Tub – High Flying Retrievers Show. 7:00pm: Music by Thomas Cain.

Friday, October 17, 10:00am: Big River Festival Simultaneous Activities Begin: Skydive Demonstration Jump, Arts & Crafts Vendors; Kids Korner Games & Hoppers; Petting Zoo, Alabama Copter, The Dogs of Honey Brake – Professional Retriever Demonstration, Helicopter Rides; and other activities. 11:00am: Jason Reynolds - Fish N’ Fetch Bass Tub – High Flying Retrievers Show. 12:00pm: Skydive Demonstration Jump, The Dogs of Honey Brake – Professional Retriever Demonstration.. 1:00 pm: Jason Reynolds - Fish N’ Fetch Bass Tub – High Flying Retrievers Show. 2:00pm: Skydive Demonstration Jump, Brandon & Johns Muddy Mojo Band, Thomas Sanders – Jerry Lee Lewis Tribute. 4:00pm: Skydive Demonstration Jump. 5:00pm: Jason Reynolds - Fish N’ Fetch Bass Tub – High Flying Retrievers Show. 6:00pm: Skydive Demonstration w/Flags, Smoke, & Pyrotechnics, Welcome Words from Mayor & City Officials. 7:00pm: NOLA Groove Band - New Orleans #1 Dance Band.

Saturday, October 18, 10:00am: Skydive Demonstration Jump, Festival Grounds Open w/All Simultaneous Activities Open to Public (Carnival/Petting Zoo/Arts & Crafts/Helicopter Flights/Food Vendors/etc.) 11:00am: Jason Reynolds - Fish N’ Fetch Bass Tub – High Flying Retrievers Show. 12:00noon: Skydive Demonstration Jump. 12-1:15pm: Ransakk Band. 1:30-2:45pm: I-10 Bound Band. 2:00pm: Skydive Demonstration Jump, Jason Reynolds - Fish N’ Fetch Bass Tub – High Flying Retrievers Show. 3:00pm: Wreckless Malfunction Band. Sweet Tooth Jones Band. 4:00pm: Skydive Demonstration Jump. 5:30pm: Music by Hanna Belle. 6:00pm: Skydive Demonstration w/Flags/Pyrotechnics/Smoke. 6:30pm: Jason Reynolds - Fish N’ Fetch Bass Tub – High Flying Retrievers Show. 7:00pm: Petty Betty Band. 9:00pm: Vince Vance & The Valiants & Other Special Guest Performances, “Lil Elvis 5” - Al “Lil Fats” Jackson - Tomato “TTT” Tina Turner Performance.

Sunday, October 19, 7:00am: Sunrise Worship Service – All Churches Invited. Stay connected and get the latest updates at cityofvidiliala.com or follow on social media at facebook.com/townofvidalia. For more info, call Paul Ferrell at 318-792-1893 or Jim Allgood at 601-597-6658.

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Austin Lee Cain

The Cyber/Special Victims Unit and Concordia deputies began an investigation on August 22, resulting in the arrest of a Vidalia, Louisiana, man for multiple charges of crimes against children. Austin Lee Cain, a 25-year-old, began communicating with what he reasonably believed to be a juvenile female. On October 8, probable cause was established, and Cain then made arrangements to meet the juvenile female within Concordia Parish. Cain was arrested and booked, without incident, into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility for Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor, Indecent Behavior with Juveniles, and Attempted Felony Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile. No other information will be released at this time, as the investigation is ongoing.

Courtney R. Taylor, a former correctional officer at the Concordia Parish Women's Correctional Facility, was arrested on October 8, on charges of malfeasance in office. Taylor admitted to violating facility regulations by bringing contraband into the institution, which led to her termination from the Concordia Parish Sheriff's Office and her subsequent arrest. No further information is available at this time. “The public has a right to know when someone entrusted with upholding the law is charged with violating it,” stated Sheriff Hedrick. “I hold my employees to the highest standards of the law.”

Two shootings were reported in Natchez and Adams County on Monday, one at Holiday Apartments and the other on Foster Mound Road. One person at a home on Foster Road was wounded. No one was injured at Holiday Apartments shooting. The shootings appear not to be related. No arrests have been made as yet.

Victor Alfonso Xol Mez,

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office and the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office have arrested a suspect in connection with the kidnapping of Elizabeth Green. The suspect, identified as Victor Alfonso Xol Mez, was taken into custody by Concordia Parish deputies during a traffic stop in Clayton, Louisiana. The arrest was the result of a joint investigation between the Adams County Sheriff’s Office and the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office, which led to the safe recovery of Elizabeth Green, 12, and the apprehension of the suspect. Sheriff Travis Patten and Sheriff David Hedrick expressed their appreciation for the partnership and teamwork between agencies that brought this situation to a safe conclusion. Victor Alfonso Xol Mez has been charged with kidnapping, and the investigation remains ongoing. Additional details will be released as the case progresses.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to report that Kyler Blanton, who was previously reported missing on October 11, 2025, has been located safely. Kyler was found in Rapides Parish, Louisiana. His mother has been notified and is currently traveling to Louisiana.

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is investigating a deadly shooting that happened Saturday evening on the campus of Alcorn State University. Authorities say officers responded around 6:30 p.m. to reports of gunfire near the Industrial Technology Building on campus. When they arrived, they found three people suffering from gunshot wounds. According to investigators, one of the victims died from their injuries. The other two were taken for medical treatment. At this time, no arrests have been made. MBI agents are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses as part of their ongoing investigation. Officials say the information is preliminary and could change as more details become available. Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation at MBITIPS@dps.ms.gov.

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Other Ways to Pay: Phone payments 601-864-1725. Payment by mail. Automatic bank draft, Payment at our Main Office, Our after-hours drop-box at the Main Office, and Payment through financial institution online bill pay. Main Office 150 N. Shields Ln., 601-445-5521. Committed to Providing Safe, Clean Water for All Our Residents.

Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft said the sink hole at Concordia and Elm is now filled in. Work crews will now put a layer of paving so the street can be used. But the town will come back in the late winter or early spring and check to make sure the pavement is still good or needs freshening from equipment damage that may have occurred to the road at the final stages of the project.

The LSU Manship School of Mass Communication will host a public tribute to Louisiana journalist Stanley Nelson on Oct. 22, from 5–7 p.m. at the Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge. Nelson, longtime editor of the Concordia Sentinel in Ferriday, was a 2011 Pulitzer Prize finalist for his years-long investigation into unsolved Ku Klux Klan murders. From 2007 to 2010, he published 150 stories on Klan violence, identifying likely suspects in killings in Ferriday and nearby Natchez, Mississippi. Nelson died June 5 at age 69. Speakers will include Hank Klibanoff, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and podcast creator; Brad Lichtenstein, executive producer of the 2022 PBS documentary “American Reckoning”; NPR investigative reporter Joe Shapiro; and Jerry Mitchell, whose reporting helped lead to prosecutions of Klan leaders in Mississippi. Members of the families of Wharlest Jackson of Natchez and Oneal Moore of Bogalusa, both presumed victims of Klan violence, are expected to attend, along with Nelson’s family.

A few months ago, Judge Carmen Drake found out that the Wilkinson County Jail was in poor condition. She ordered the grand jury to take a look, and the subsequent jury report said the jail needed significant work to to protect the health and safety of employees and inmates. Now supervisors have learned that those repairs will cost $537,000. And at this point, there is no money budgeted for the extra expense. County supervisors know they need a new fire truck at a cost of about add a cost of about $545,000. A grant may be available for up to $120,000 but that would still leave $355,000 that the county would have to spend and again there is no money budgeted for this. Supervisors past motion to purchase the truck. They will apply for the grant and probably borrow the rest of the money on a very low interest loan, which is available for fire truck purchases. In reviewing expenditures for the year 2025, which ended September 30, county leaders learned and a number of departments went over budget, including the purchase inventory clerk, the circuit clerk, the coroner, the district attorney, sheriff’s department, the health department, human services, and the library. The largest offender was the sheriff’s department at $142,000 over budget. The extra spending will cause cash flow problems in the 2026 fiscal year.

Every Fall and Spring, the Junkin' on the River event shopping event hits the Natchez-Vidalia area, scheduled for Oct 10-11. You’ll find 20 + businesses with countless vendors, food trucks and fun, packed into TWO FULL DAYS of antiquing and junkin’. There will be door prizes to be won and discounts to be had. Participating vendors: Vidalia, LA -- Bayou Bliss Gifts • Bless This Mess Vintage Market • Leslie-Ann’s • Parker’s Closet • Trinkets & Treasures • St. Andrew’s Thrift Store; Natchez, MS -- Annie Mae’s Classy Junk & Home Decor • Consign & Design Natchez • EJ’s Flea Market • Franklin Street Relics • Historic Meadville • Lower Lodge Antiques • Mrs. Holder’s Antiques • Old Man River Antiques • The Shops at Kress • Pleasant Acre Day School Some-N-Special Shop • St. Andrew’s Thrift Store • 601 Architectural Salvage.

Copiah-Lincoln Community College announced the 2025 Homecoming Court. Local Natchez area members of the court include freshman maid Kahidreuna Jones of Fayette and sophomore maid Arijeanette McDonald of Natchez. The entire nine-woman court will be presented at halftime of the Homecoming football game against East Central Community College on October 23 at 6:30 p.m. in Stone Stadium.

Adams deputies arrested Jonathan Stampley, 37, of Natchez, for home invasion and aggravated domestic assault. He remains in jail on a $125,000 bond.

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Monday, Oct. 13, 9 a.m. Wear closed toed shoes. Tennis shoes, sneakers, or boots are ok. No sandals or flip-flops! Bring any of your own tools that you might need such as spades and shovels, etc. Wear clothes that can get dirty. Full water bottle and snacks. Sun hat and sunscreen. Garden gloves. Masks/Face coverings. Free Mulch, while supplies last.. Free water while supplies last.

Ferriday Mayor Alvin Garrison has suspended Chief of Police Derrick Freeman for working a part-time job on the Alcorn campus. Freeman is supposed to be available 24/7. He did not inform the mayor of the part-time gig. Freeman did not show up for his Ferriday job during the homecoming game because he was in Lorman. There was a big fight. Police intervened and a coach was tasered. And the Chief was not there to lead or give direction. Garrison has not said whether the suspension is temporary or permanent loss of job could occur. The town council meets Tuesday to discuss the matter.

Charges against former Woodville police officer Rodrick Hart have been dropped by the district attorney. Hart had been accused of stealing fine money. He had asserted that he turned in the cash and that someone else stole the money. The prosecutor said new information has come to light and more investigation is needed. But he was not more specific.

Catahoula Parish Correctional Facility

Catahoula Sheriff Toney Edwards has promoted two men who work in management at the parish correctional facility. Chris Barlow has been promoted to Deputy Warden and Gary Jones to Major. Edwards said both men are excellent leaders.

Adms deputies arrested Sanchez Gray, 34, of Ferriday, for trafficking in control substances, tampering with evidence and receiving stolen goods. He remains in jail. In 2024, deputies arrested him for intent to distribute cocaine, intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a stolen vehicle and tampering with evidence. $5300 in cash from drugs proceeds was seized. At that time, he was released on bond. In 2018, Concordia deputies and federal agents raided the Gray Family home in Ferriday, arresting three family members. Deputies said the family was involved in widespread drug dealing. Sanchez Gray was charged with possession of schedule, I drugs, possession of schedule II drugs, possession of a weapon while in possession of drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia. $10,000 in cash was seized.

The official ribbon-cutting of Natchez Downtown Alliance, at its new location will be Oct. 11 at 10 a.m., kicking off three weeks of fall fun at the corner of Main and South Pearl (former Biglane Office Buiilding). Howl-o-ween Pet Parade will be at 3 p.m. Our furry friends will share their and festive costumes and take over downtown! Special guests include our Pet Mayor and Pawldermen. Downtown businesses, schools, and community groups can pre-order pumpkins now through opening day to decorate storefronts, classrooms, and displays. Call 601-445-4611.

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Heasther Christian

Heather Christian, 44, of Natchez is one of 22 national MacArthur Foundation fellowship award winners this year. She is an accomplished composer, vocalist, musician and playwright, whose performances are unique and captivating. The fellowship includes an $800,000 award.

Emergency personnel responded to Natchez High Oct. 8, after another bomb threat. No bomb was found. A juvenile was arrested for the threat.

Catahoula Fire District #1 in Enterprise received a new pumper truck this summer. The volunteers fought two grass fires so far with the new truck.

Parade

Expect some traffic delays downtown Thursday, Oct. 9, as the Natchez High homecoming parade will leave Broadway, go up Franklin and then go to MLK. The parade starts at 6 p.m.

Adams County supervisors appointed Carl Beasley has the new airport director. He is a retired FAA supervisory air traffic control specialist and group manager and served in the US Marine Corps. He and his wife already live in Natchez.

A historical marker honoring Prince Abdul Rahman Ibrahima (1762-1829) will be dedicated at 11 a.m. Friday, October 24, near Historic Jefferson College on the corner of Highway 61 North and Jefferson College Street. The ceremony is being organized by the Natchez Historical Society, the sponsor of the marker that was acquired through the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. Michael Morris, director of The Two Museums in Jackson, will be the guest speaker at the ceremony. Ibrahima was a Muslim prince from West Africa who spent 40 years enslaved on Thomas Foster’s plantation near Washington before gaining his freedom. The marker will be the first in the Natchez-Adams County area that pays tribute to Ibrahima. This event is free to the public. For more information, call 601-492-3004 or send email to Roscoe@visitnatchez.org.

Roeland Williams

Roeland Williams, 24, turned his self into authorities at the Franklin County Sheriff's Department Oct. 8, according to Sheriff Tom Tindle. He was taken into custody peacefully and without incident. Williams was wanted in a shooting incident that occurred around 1:30 a.m. Saturday on Mildred Davis Road. The shooting led to the death of 26-year-old John Lee Starks III. Another person suffered life-threatening injuries and was in critical condition while another victim suffered non-life threatening injuries. The names of the two wounded victims was not being released. Authorities had been searching for Williams since Saturday. The Adams County Sheriff's Department assisted in the search. Tindle said he wanted to thank everyone in his department for working the case and wanted to thank all law enforcement that assisted in trying to locate the suspect.

Rebekah Turner

State Auditor Shad White announced that Special Agents from his office have arrested Rebekah Turner, former Accounts Receivable Clerk for the City of Natchez, for allegedly embezzling funds from the city. Turner allegedly took cash from deposits made to her office by other city departments and converted that money to her own personal use. “The dedicated team at the Office of the State Auditor will continue to work with prosecutors so we can continue delivering record results for taxpayers,” said State Auditor Shad White. “This is how we’ve recovered more money in the last seven years than any other seven-year period.” Turner faces up to $5,000 in fines and 20 years in prison. All persons arrested by the Mississippi Office of the State Auditor are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Suspected fraud can be reported to the Auditor’s office at any time by clicking the red button at www.osa.ms.gov or calling 1-(800)-321-1275 during normal business hours.

Concordia School Supt. Toyua Bachus has sent a letter to parents, asking them to work with the district on limiting cell phone use in the schools. She wrote, "As a parent myself, I completely understand why you want your child to have a cell phone at school. It provides peace of mind knowing they can reach you in the event of an emergency. At the same time, we also see firsthand the challenges that phones create in the classroom. Even when they are not being used, if a phone is in a pocket and buzzing, vibrating, or lighting up, it is a distraction. The natural urge for a child to check it—even for just a second—takes their attention away from their teacher, their peers, and the lesson at hand. Over time, these small distractions add up and impact learning for everyone in the classroom. That’s why the expectation is simple: during the instructional day, phones must be turned off and stowed away. This allows our teachers to teach without interruptions and our students to focus fully on their learning. We are not asking students to give up their phones completely—we are asking them to respect the learning environment by keeping them put away until the end of the school day."

"Junkin’ On The River" will be held October 10-11. Every Fall and Spring, this shopping event comes to the Natchez-Vidalia area for the weekend, full of antiquing and junkin.' Participating vendors include: Vidalia -- Bayou Bliss Gifts, Bless This Mess Vintage Market, Leslie-Ann’s, Parker’s Closet • Trinkets & Treasures, St. Andrew’s Thrift Store; and in Natchez -- Annie Mae’s Classy Junk & Home Decor, Consign & Design Natchez, EJ’s Flea Market, Franklin Street Relics, Historic Meadville, Lower Lodge Antiques, Mrs. Holder’s Antiques, Old Man River Antiques, The Shops at Kress, Pleasant Acre Day School, Some-N-Special Shop, St. Andrew’s Thrift Store and 601 Architectural Salvage.

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Franklin County shooting

One person is dead, another one critically injured and a suspect is being sought after a Saturday morning shooting incident. According to Franklin County Sheriff Tom Tindle, deputies responded to a report of a shooting on Mildred Davis Road about 1;30 Saturday morning. John Lee Starks III, 26, was pronounced dead. Another victim suffered critical life threatening injuries and was transported to a medical facility. Tindle said an arrest warrant has been issued for Roeland Williams, 24. Authorities are searching for him. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Williams is asked to contact the SO or 911.

Adams deputies arrested Jamon V. Williams, 32, of Natchez, on three counts of conspiracy. Bond was set at $150,000. In 2009, he fatally attacked a 62-year-old Natchez man, causing blunt force trauma to the head, who later died at the hospital. In 2011, he was sentenced to 20 years for that manslaughter death, with 10 years to serve and 10 years post supervision probation. In 2019, he was the rest for intimidating a witness. He is being held in jail.

Natchez police have arrested Edward Austin Walker, 30, of Natchez, for armed robbery. Disposition of bond has not been mentioned. In 2024, he was arrested Catahoula for aggravated domestic abuse battery, with his next court date scheduled for Oct. 18, In 2015, he plead guilty to trespassing.

Jobs decline

Concordia has 5,919 workers with jobs, down from 6,128 employed a year ago, a decline of 109 jobs. Unemployment is now 6.0 percent.

The TNT Wild West Show will perform at the Foster Mound Rd. Arena in Natchez on Oct. 4. Gates open at 6 p.m. with kids' pony rides and family wagon rides. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Two hours of family fun and entertainment. Proceeds supporting the local veterans of VFW post 9573. Tickets are available at TNTwildwestshow.com or at the gate.

The Natchez NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet will celebrate the 60 years anniversary of the Parchman Ordeal at the Event at Gayosa located at 410 Gayosa Avenue, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. Guest Speaker: Darryl Grennell and Historian: Jamal McCullen.

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Catahoula courthouse

The Catahoula Parish Police Jury and its Homeland Security Director Ellis Boothe have proposed an ordinance that would ban masks, video and audio recordings in the courthouse and all parish facilities. The jurty is thinking about restricting public access to public facilities. Boothe assaulted a First Amendment auditor this summer when he tried to video the courthuse. And the Director was arrested. Masks are already banned in Louisiana courthouses by state law. If the jury passes the ordinance, it would be unconstitutional, as the U.S. Supreme Court and district courts have ruled that people can photograph or video others in public places without their permission. Persons have no expectation of privacy when they enter a public place, including a government building. There are restrictions that are lawful. Photos and videos cannot be taken in a restroom, where people do have an expectation of privacy. Judges can restrict or ban photography and video to protect jurors and witnesses. Governments cannot ban photography and video from public meetings or public offices, unless the recording interferes with the progression of normal business.

Ferriday Mayor Alvin Garrison met with constituents and delivered a state of the city address at the Arcade Theater. Garrison thanked the town council for its coooperation and stressed that the town government is making improvements in services, is better organized and monitoring revenues and expenses carefully. The mayor said Ferriday is now in compliance with the state, having delivered its past due audits for publication. Also on the podium, engineer Bryant Hammett and State Rep. C. Travis Johnson mentioned the planning for the new $24 million municipal complex and the development of the downtown entertainment district.

The Catahoula Parish burn ban has been lifted.

Ferriday fire

The Louisiana State Fire Marshal will investigate a fire that destroyed the old Ferriday police station Monday. The town plans to build a new municipal complex at the same E.E. Wallace Blvd. location where the police station was located.

Vidalia police arrested Jaterria Brown, 26, of Ferriday, for felony theft, possession of stolen goods and felon in possession of a firearm. He has bonded out of the parish jail. He has been previously arrested for battery in 2019 and aggravated assault with a firearm in 2022. Vidalia police also arrested Dylan Price 31, of Ferriday, for aggravated second-degree battery. He is being held in the parish jail.

Natchez Little Theatre presents the play, "Misery," Sept. 25-28 and Oct. 2-5. For info, call 601-442-2233. Tickets are $15-$25,. Tickets are available online at thenatchezlittletheatre.com.

Paul Overstreet, Paul Thorn

The Annual Homochitto River Festival will move back to its roots by being free once again. This year’s event is scheduled for 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25 in downtown Meadville. Admission will be free and will feature 14 entertainment acts on two stages. Headlining the festival will be Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Paul Overstreet and singer-songwriter Paul Thorn. In addition, many local and area musicians and groups will be performing throughout the day and into the night. Vendors spaces are also available but are filling up quickly. Also part of the festival will be a car show, a kids' game area and more. Children will also have the opportunity to decorate pumpkins during the event. The two headliners bring a rich musical heritage to this year’s festival. Overstreet is back by popular demand. According to Entertainment Chairman Larry Wallace, “Since he was here, we have had so many people who missed him say they wish they would have seen him.”

Adams deputies arrested Ziyan Taylor, 20, of Natchez, for trafficking controlled substances. She remains in jail.

Natchez police arrested Kamryn S. Bernard, 24, of Natchez, and charged her with misuse of credit cards and credit card numbers, with intent to defraud. Bond was set at $15,000.

Jason McGehee, Major Buddy Frank, Sheriff Travis Patten and Wyatt Craig

Wyatt Craig and the Sports Center have supported the Adams County Sheriff's Office with a sizeable donation. Through the success of the “31 Guns in 31 Days” fundraiser, the SO was able to purchase 10 brand new Radical Arms AR-15 rifles for its patrol division. Craig went even further by donating an additional five rifles of the same brand and model. This partnership allowed the SO to upgrade every patrol rifle in its division, something that hasn’t been done since 1998. Sheriff Travis Patten thanked Craig and the Sports Center for their donation.

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson gave his state of the city address, saying the people of Natchez are united by history and dedicated to a common goal of progress. He cited a list of economic, governmental and infrastructure improvements that have made life better. He singled out Natchez Inc. and the Chamber of Commerce for their work. Gibson said economic renewal will be further achieved with the rebuilding of Tracetown, the Eola Hotel and the 30 acre shopping center parcel next to Walmart. The mayor said, “I do not have time for negativity and division,” and “God’s hand and favor are on Natchez.” He asked those in attendance to stand in support of Natchez and fight against fake news and those who want the city divided. He asked the group to join hands in unity to combat those who hate and fear and to celebrate the good work going on. A large part of the speech was almost religious in nature, invoking biblically-and-preacher-styled language to help characterize himself as both a spiritual and political leader and restate the city’s economic goals. “We are united,” Gibson said. “Our time is now!”

Southwest Miss. has the highest unemployment rates as a region in the state. Adams County is doing better than its neighbors. Currently, Natchez Adams has 9,990 persons with jobs, up 190 jobs from a year ago. The jobless rate is 5.6 percent. Six years ago, in 2019, our community had 10,370 jobs. The loss of 1800 jobs was devastating during the pandemic, and it’s taken five years after the pandemic to increase jobs back up to near 10,000.

Frazie ropposes vigil

Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft said no one requested to have a memorial in honor of Charlie Kirk in Vidalia. Craft said the town makes available its riverfront and parks to anyone who wishes to hold a ceremony to honor a person who has died. Natchez Alderman Billie Jo Frazier misspoke when he said Vidalia had turned down a request to hold a memorial for Kirk. The town received no request. Frazier has objected to Natchez allowing citizens to use the gazebo area for a Kirk memorial. He said Kirk’s ‘actions and words were hurtful.’ Frazier echoed the remarks of Natchez NAACP leader Lee Ford and national Democratic Party radicals inferring that Kirk was against minorities, LBGTQ persons and women in general.

Adams Justice Court Judge Danny Barber said there was enough evidence to hold Trey Bouler of Natchez on two counts of simple assault. Bond was set at $20,000. A Natchez woman had filed a complaint that Bouler assaulted her. Adams deputies arrested Aiesha Fowler, 41, of Natchez, for trying to pass a counterfeit instrument and uttering a forgery, felonies. Judge Danny Barber set bail at $75,000. She remains in jail.

Natchez High had another bomb threat called in Sept. 29, the third in a week. Two juveniles were arrested.

No indictment

Bicyclist Reggie Butler was attacked by drunken young adults in Kingston in September. He shot one of those involved in the attack. While arrested for aggravated assault, an Adams County grand jury has decided not to indict him.

2025 Mississippi Department of Education accountability scoring has been released. The Natchez School District reported a lower C grade than last year, based on points earned. Math proficiency was 30.9 percent, English proficiency: 36.1 percent. Math proficiency dropped slightly; English increased slightly. Natchez High earned a D, decreased from a C; Natchez Middle scored a D, decreased from a C; McLaurin Elementary graded C, decreased from a B; West Elementary C; and Morgantown Elementary D down from a B. The state also provides a point scoring grade. Natchez schools all fell in their point scoring. Superintendent of Schools Zandra McDonald has repeatedly said she and her staff are committed to “achieving excellence.” Other nearby district grades included: Franklin County: B, Wilkinson County: F, Jefferson County: C.

Adams deputies arrested Mark Hall, 64, of Natchez, for failure to register as a sex offender, a felony. He was convicted of rape. His bond has been set at $15,000 and he remains in jail. In another case, deputies arrested Johnnie Anders, 55, of Natchez, for felony malicious mischief for damaged of $1000-$5000. Bond was said at $35,000. She remains in jail. In 2022, she was arrested for intent to distribute crystal meth. In a third case, Adams deputies arrested Ashley Easton of Natchez for grand larceny for items of value of $5000-$25,000. She is being held in jail. She has a previous arrest for shoplifting.

Rains and floodiing

Heavy rains hit the Miss-Lou area Sept. 24, with some locales receiving 3-4 inches in a two hours. Jonesville reported significant street flooding.

The Concordia Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Awards Dinner at the Vidalia Convention Center. Those recognized included Concordian of the Year: Scott McLemore, Large Business of the Year: Concordia Bank, Small Business of the Year: Dr. Lee Falkenheiner and Falkenheiner Family Dentistry, Guy Murray Award: Daniel and Denise Davis, Fifty Year Award: Panola Woods Country Club, Young Professional Under 40: Trey Book, Farmer of the Year: Tim White, and First Responder of the Year: CPSO's Chad Fuqua.

During the Natchez schools' Homecoming Safety Plan meeting Sept. 24, a bomb threat was called in to Natchez High School. Additional law enforcement agencies responded immediately, joining the officers already on campus. A search discovered no bomb.

Copper thieves captured

On May 12, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to 769 U.S. 61 North regarding the theft of copper wire. Deputies learned that approximately 400 feet of 400-pair copper wire and multiple fiber lines had been stolen, with an estimated value of $2,800. This amount does not include the additional cost of repairs required to restore service. During the course of the investigation, deputies reviewed surveillance footage from a nearby business that revealed three individuals of interest connected to the theft. Further investigation linked the suspects to the transportation and sale of stolen copper wire at recycling facilities in the region. On September 15, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, working alongside investigators from the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, made contact with multiple suspects at a residence in Jackson, Mississippi. At the scene, investigators observed evidence consistent with copper wire theft, including burned casings and freshly stripped wire. One suspect, identified as George Hayley of Jackson, admitted involvement and detailed how he, along with David Glaze and Regina Blair Glaze, traveled to Natchez to steal the copper wire before transporting it back to Jackson to burn and sell. As a result of this investigation: George Hayley is currently being held by the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office on charges of Possession of Stolen Property, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and additional related offenses. Upon release, he will be transferred to Adams County to face Grand Larceny charges. Regina Blair Glaze is currently being held at the Adams County Sheriff’s Office on a $25,000 bond in connection to this case. David Glaze fled the scene on foot as deputies from the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office arrived, leaving his disabled wife behind as he ran away. He has been entered into NCIC and is wanted by the Adams County Sheriff’s Office for Grand Larceny.

Claiborne Hollis of Natchez has died at age 97. Hollis was a true “rocket scientist” an aeronautical engineer who worked on the Apollo Space Program, with Vaught in Texas. He served on the USS Missouri, when President Harry Truman was touring the world right after WWII. He served on the county's airport commission and on the region's levee board for many years.

Kerrie Huff officially took over as the new Bude Police Chief during a swearing in ceremony. Huff brings a wide array of law enforcement experience to her post. She served with the Brookhaven Police Department from September 2017-July 2021, then joined the Natchez Police Department, where she served from December 2021-September 2023. She then moved to Houston, Texas, before returning to the area, where she served as an School Resource Officer at South Pike Middle School from August 2024-March 2025. She returned to the Natchez Police Department, where she was promoted to Corporal and a supervisory role, while also serving on a part-time basis with the Bude Police Department since October 2024. She has both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Criminal Justice from Alcorn State and currently lives in Meadville. Normally, the Bude PD functions with a chief and two part-time officers.

Rec district facilities

The Concordia Parish Recreation District #3 serves the Vidalia area and has filed its annual audits with the state as required. It gets imost of its revenues from property tax collections and state revenue sharing and has traditionally shown an operating surplus each year.

2024: Revenues $442,000, Expenditures $395,000, Ending Year Cash Balance $155,000

2023: Revenues $435,000, Expenditures $411,000, Ending Year Cash Balance $137,000

The Concordia Parish Recreation District No. 3 was created by ordinance of the Concordia Parish Police Jury on May 28, 1958, as provided by Louisiana Revised Statutes 33:4562-4566. The District has been a component unit of the Concordia Parish Police Jury since inception in 1958. The purpose of the District is to own and operate playgrounds and other facilities in the District and to initiate activities that would promote recreation relating to the general health and well-being of youths. The District is located in Vidalia, Louisiana and surrounding areas of Concordia Parish, Louisiana. The population of the District is approximately 7,200. The District is governed by seven commissioners appointed by the Concordia Parish Police Jury. The commissioners serve without pay. The District has a secretary, a director, and three or four other part-time independent contractors. Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 youths and adults participate in the District's facilities and programs each year. Plans currently consist of adding netting to the baseball and softball fields at the complex that they anticipate to begin work in 2025.On March 1, 2009, the District entered into a lease agreement with the City of Vidalia to lease a 30-acre tract of land in Concordia Parish for the purpose of providing the citizen members of the District a safe and adequate place to conduct their recreational activities. The lease is for 50 years, terminating on February 28, 2059. The District will have an option to renew for an additional 50 years 30 days prior to the expiration of the current lease. The lease is $100 per year, payable yearly in advance, on the first day of March of each year.Board members: James Thomas, Chairman, Glen Perilloux, Co-Chairman, Fred Marsalis, Greg Young, Kale Davis, Frank Duson, Jackie Johnson. Silas Simmons CPAs performed the recent audits and found that the district is following accepted accounting and bookkeeping practices. The 2023 audit was submitted late, but the CPAs admitted that was the accounting firm's fault and not the district. There were no negative findings nor recommendations for accounting improvements. District 3 is handling its monies and bookkeeping properly.

Wilkinson County supervisors passed a new budget with no millage increase. The fiscal year 2026 budget is $8.7 million, of which $5 million comes from local property taxes. The sheriff’s department and jail will spend $1.4 million. The road districts will spend $1 million, with each supervisor allocated $200,000.

Concordia Recreation District 2 serves the Monterey area. It has submitted its 2024 audit to the state prepared by CPA A. Michelle Ferguson of Ferriday. The audit was posted on the state's website June 18, 2025, which means the police jury can access a copy like everyone else. The jury raised the issue of financial statements at its recent meeting. 2024: Revenues $93,000 Expenditures $39,000 (not including depreciation). Fund balance Dec. 31, 2024 $339,000, of which $243,000 is in certificates of deposit. The amount of money flowing in and out of the district is very small. And the report is adequate in documenting revenues, expenditures and cash on hand. The audit meets the statutory requirement for filing. No negative findings were noted.

Shamekia Rankin

Wilkinson County School Superintendent Shamekia Rankin told her school board that 643 students are currently enrolled in the district. School board members heard the district’s buildings need $7.3 million in repairs but only $3 million in cash on hand. Rankin also said the mayor of Centreville has asked the schools to make repairs and cleanup to the closed Finch Elementary. The school suffered a major fire years ago and has never been repaired.

Woodville Police Chief Lemuel Rutledge presented the mayor and aldermen with photos of dilapidated properties within the town limits, including those with uncut grass and falling boards and timbers. Mayor Jessie Stewart thanked Rutledge for the photos and said the town will start sending letters to property owners to clean up. The town will cite offenders or take legal action against recalcitrants.

Adams deputies arrested Charles Jordan III, 28, of Natchez, for DUI test refusal, a felony, and driving with a suspended license. He is being held in jail.

LaJames Scott

Harrisonburg High School faculty, staff and students are coming together in support and love as they deal with the loss of LaJames Scott, one of their inspiring juniors who was taking extra classes to graduate this school year. Friends said he had an oygoing personality, was kind and caring.

The Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Department received a 911 call for service at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 21. The caller reported that he and two other passengers were in a boat that was taking on water rapidly. He advised that one of the passengers had made it to shore, but another had gone under the water and had not resurfaced. Deputies with the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Department, along with Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, Sandy Lake Fire Department, and American Medical Response, responded to the Bayou Louie area. Preliminary investigation revealed that two adult males and one juvenile were boating when the vessel began to take on water. The operator attempted to return to the landing, but the boat capsized, sending all three occupants into the water. One of the adults and the juvenile were able to make it safely to shore. Unfortunately, the second adult male did not resurface and drowned. Rescue personnel recovered the victim’s body at approximately 5:56 p.m. The Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Department, Catahoula Parish Coroner’s Office, and Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries are continuing the investigation. LaJames Scott was named as the deceased.

Adams deputies arrested Davonta Perry, 33, of Natchez, after he assaulted a law enforcement officer. He was also charged with disorderly conduct and failure to comply. Bond was set at $252,500. He remains in jail. In 2022, he was arrested for firing shots at the Natchez GMC dealership. He was charged for a felon in possession of a weapon and faced previous charges for armed robbery.

Heather Christian

Natchez native, vocalist and composer Heather Christian was honored this week with a Miss. Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts.

The Concordia Parish Police Jury will receive $300,000 in state funds for drainage and sewer improvements.

Concordia deputies arrested Jaqualius Jefferson, 28, of Ferriday, for possession of and intent to deliver schedule 2 drugs, felony possession of a firearm while possessing drugs, speeding, no license, and failure to appear. He was released on bond. He faces trial in West Feliciana in November on drug charges.

Counseling

The City of Natchez will hold a public hearing at City Hall Council Chambers on Adjudication of the following parcels within the City of Natchez Sept. 6 p.m. on these derelict properties: 3 Bedford Ct, 21 Beverly Dr, 15 Bishop St, 113 Brightwood Av, 25 E Woodlawn Av, 27 E Woodlawn Av, 1510 Eastwood Rd, 13 Lincoln St, 609 (605) Maple St, 12 Marblestone Rd, 39 Marin Av, 30 N Commerce St Ext, 2815 Roselawn Dr, 907 State St, 8 W Woodlawn Av, 11 W Woodlawn Av, 13 W Woodlawn Av, 425 Walnut St. All property owners have been notified by mail.

Several hundred people attended a candelight vigil at the Natchez gazebo to remember Charlie Kirk. NACCP official Lee Ford filmed the event after posting online that his chapter was against the city allowing Kirk suppporters to use the gazebo to remember Kirk. Ford didn't say what he was planning to do with the video. He attacked the mayor on Facebook, calling Dan Gibson a member of the Ku Klux Klan.

Plant for sale

World Energy bought the Natchez Elevance plant in 2016, hoping to continue to use soybean oil to create biodiesel. Due to changing market conditions, World believes its company should now focus on high quality aviation fuels and has put its Natchez plant up for sale.The state and county invested $6.5 million in infrastructure near the port to create 200 construction and 165 pernanment jobs for Elevance, anticipating a $225 million dollar investment. Another $25 million was provided as a state loan. Elevance had mounting losses and sold out to World Energy in 2016. Some of the investment occurred, but not the jobs. Now World believes the company should anticipate continued softness in the biodiesel industry. So the Natchez plant is now for sale.

A threat posted in the bathroom of Block High broought a law enforcement response to see if students and faculty were in danger.A temporary lockdown was ended after it was dtermined that no real threat existed.

The Concordia Parish School Board approved its 2025-26 budget that included with revenues of $52.3 million and expenses of $57.3 million. The $5 million deficit will be handled by using existing cash balances.

Bonding approved

Both Adams County supervisors and Natchez aldermen have approved issuing up to $6.5 million in bonds to help the new Tracetown shopping center project. The county and city will allow the developer-owners to use the collected sales and assigned property taxes to pay off the development bond. Normally, those types of bonds run 10 to 20 years. The city and county have not asked for any personal guarantees from the developers, nor did the politicians investigate the deal in relation to possible revenues, expenditures, cost of construction or the financial worthiness of the partners. The local politicians just assumed the developers will carry through.

Harrisonburg continues its construction project to improve Steamboat Park. Sealed bids for the project were submitted in May, and Womack & Sons' bid was accepted. Plans include enhancements to the park's infrastructure. Construction of a lookout at Harrisonburg’s Steamboat Park will offer a striking view from the historic Ouachita River.

The Pride of Franklin County band program will host a Chick-Fil-A fundraiser on Friday, Sept. 26. The band will be selling Chick-Fil-A sandwich box lunches, which includes the sandwich, chips, cookies and a drink. Proceeds will benefit the band, and checks should be made out to FC Band Boosters. Orders must be placed by Friday, with orders available for pick up in the FCHS Band Hall from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26. Delivery to local schools is also available. For more information or to place an order, contact Kerri Phillips at 601-597-3407.

County budget

Adams County Supervisors will spend $43 million in the coming fiscal year, with spending fueled by reassessment and an increase in millage of just under a half of one mill. Tax increases will help fund across the board raises for all salaried and hourly employees as a cost of living increase. Supervisors will actually spend less than they did this past year, because the Biden-era federal grants have run their course.

The 2025 Miss-Lou Governor’s Job Fair will be held on Thursday, September 18, at the Natchez Convention Center from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Open and free admission to the public with over 50 employers attending. Bring your resume, and be prepared for on-site interviews.

More than 70 people attended the Second Annual Franklin County Fossil Road Show on Sept. 6 in the Fellowship Hall at Meadville Baptist Church. The hall was filled with artifacts, fossils, bones and even space rocks. This event last year was hosted at the Franklin County Library but was moved this year to the local church due to the large attendance in 2024. Special guests included Mississippi Natural Science Paleontology Curator George Phillips and Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality Geologist James Starnes. Both are very familiar with Franklin County and refer to the area as a wealth of resources when it comes to gravel sourced fossils.

Tax collections

The Mississippi Bureau of Revenue rebates some of the sales taxes collected back to the cities. Cities use that revenue for police, fire, streets, and other services. Natchez relies on this money to a great extent to fund the city budget. The state uses a sales tax year of July 1 through June 30. Here are the recent figures showing the sales tax rebated to Natchez for the year: July 2024-June 2025 $5,657,503, July 2023-June 2024 $5,759,957, July 2022-June 2023 $5,908,959. In spite of inflation, sales tax collections have dropped over the recent years, not increased. After a burst of post pandemic spending in 2021 and 2022, sales tax collections have dropped 2.8 percent from 2023 to 2025.

Miss-Lou Magazine is in favor of renaming a Natchez street in honor of Charlie Kirk. Kirk was shot and killed at age 31, in part because of his defense of Freedom of Speech.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited 32 subjects for alleged dove hunting violations on the opening weekend of the 2025-26 dove hunting season that took place from Sept. 6-7. Agents seized a total of 219 doves in connection with these cases and donated them to local charities. In Tensas Parish on Sept. 6, agents cited the following: Raymond Smith, 50, of Ferriday, for placing bait to take migratory game birds, hunting migratory game birds over a baited area, and hunting migratory game birds with an unplugged gun; Raymond Smith IV, 18, of Ferriday, for hunting migratory game birds over a baited area; Drake Smith, 25, of Ferriday, for hunting migratory game birds over a baited area; and Lindsey Lee, 23, of Natchez, Miss., for hunting without a non-resident hunting license. In Concordia Parish on Sept. 6, agents cited Sawyer Perkins, 25, of Vidalia, for hunting migratory game birds over a baited area and placing bait to take migratory game birds. Intentional concealment of wildlife carries a $900 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail. State charges for hunting over the limit of doves and hunting doves with an unplugged gun brings a $400 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail for each offense. Hunting without non-resident hunting licenses and using non-toxic shot on a WMA carries up to a $350 fine for each offense. All migratory game bird baiting cases are filed with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecution in Federal Court.

Police jury audit

The Concordia Parish Police Jury is woefully behind in producing its annual audits. It should have issued its 2024 audit by now but only released its 2023 audit in July. For 2023, the jury had revenues of $8.5 million and expenses of $7.7, showing a surplus. The jury has shown much improved bookkeeping and accounting practices in the past two years, according to Silas Simmons CPAs. The accountants found only two conditions or findings of note. Because of the small size of the Police Jury and the small number of employees, many of the important elements of good internal accounting controls cannot always be achieved to ensure adequate protection of the Police Jury's assets. The Police Jury's audited financial statements were not submitted to the Louisiana Legislative Auditor by the statutory due date.

Catahoula Correction Center announces a new chapter as Warden Trevor McDonald prepares to transition to a facility in West Baton Rouge. Driven by a desire to be closer to his family, Sheriff Toney Edwards expressed full support for McDonald’s decision, recognizing the importance of family and thanking him for his transformative leadership. “Our staff is educated, prepared, and passionate about creating a safer, more rehabilitative environment,” McDonald said. “I’m proud of what we’ve built at CCC, and I know the team will keep pushing forward.” Although CCC is sad to see Warden McDonald go, incoming Warden Gary Allen is energized by the opportunity to lead. Allen, who currently serves as Assistant Warden, will become the first Black warden to serve Catahoula Parish, bringing 29 years of correctional experience and a heart rooted in security, respect, and community service.

Jonesville police remind parents that the juvenile curfew of 10 pm remains in effect. The only exceptions to the curfew are for teens going to and from work and for kids accompanied by an adult.

New projects

Vidalia aldermen voted to spend $10 million in excess hydro revenues to fund local projects including: DA Biglane Road improvements: $3.5 million, Payoff of Vidalia’s new transmission line: $3-4 million, New pavilion and parking lot for the farmer’s market: $1 million, Turf fields for a special needs league: $300,000, Riverfront gateway improvements: $250,000, Trash can program: $200,000, Security cameras at the water plant and playground: $248,000, Interior paint at the Riverfront Visitors & Convention Center: $140,000, Polk Park tennis court overlay: $100,000, Continued removal of problem trees: $100,000, Thirty-foot laser light Christmas tree: $50,000, Entertainment costs for the Natchez Balloon Glow on the Vidalia Riverfront: $50,000, Vidalia Council on Aging building improvements: $50,000, LED wall at the Riverfront Visitors & Convention Center: $25,000, Youth summer program: $5,000, New fiberglass basketball backboards at the municipal complex: $5,000, Basketball court benches: $2,000 and Conversion of portions of tennis courts to pickleball courts.

Natchez aldermen plan on passing a $39 million budget on Monday. There will be no decrease in millage to compensate for rising assessments. The new 2025-26 budget starts Oct. 1. Proposed expenditures include: Police $4 million, Fire $2.7 million plus $900,000 from the county, E911 $500,000, City Clerk's Office $636,000, Public Works $1.3 million, Aldermen $226,000, Mayor's Office $361,000, Planning $234,000, Workforce Development $236,000, Information Tech $562,000, Municipal Court $376,000, Inspection Dept. $165,000, Traffic Dept. $260,000, City Garage $501,000 Seniors $410,000 not counting transportation/bus, Convention Center Mgt. $368,000,, Trash Pickup/Recycling $2 million, Utilities $670,000 and Library $344,000. List does not include capital projects.

Natchez aldermen have named a bridge on Sgt. Prentiss Drive near Liberty Road for the late Mayor Larry L. “Butch” Brown.

Water systems merging

Ferriday and Clayton will merge their water systems under the auspices of the La. Water Sector program. The towns will receive a $3.1 million grant from the state to do repairs, upgrades and handle administration of the new two-town utility. Ferriday Mayor Alvin Garrison said the grant requires no local match.

Lyndsey Gilbert of the Natchez Convention and Promotion Commission and Visit Natchez spoke to aldermen about her agency’s work in promoting tourism and conventions for Natchez. Her group works with travel writers to give Natchez extra publicity. NCPC provides mini grants to non profits to promote local events, travels to tourism conventions and trade shows to promote the community and maintains an events website. Gilbert said NCPC will also begin sponsoring more local arts and music events. She said many tourists continue to request visitors guides. She and her staff also operate the visitors center at The Depot. NCPC has started to pay influencers for online recommendations. The agency employs an ad agency to help with marketing. Gilbert did not say how much her agency spends per year, but 2023 figures showed expenditures of $1.8 million funded by sales tax revenues on rooms and restaurant meals.

Bridgers CPAs told Wilkinson supervisors the county should include a library audit as part of the county’s regular accounting practices. Supervisors did not take a formal vote to do so, but the conversation leaned in the direction that they would include the library in audits for the future. the library operates branches in Woodville and Centreville.

Shopping center plans

Natchez aldermen agreed to accept Noone Real Estate’s proposal to develop Tracetown. Noone has developed shopping centers in Batesville and along the Gulf Coast. The city will ask the county to join it in this Mississippi Development Authority chartered project. The developers will ask the city to deliver up to $6.5 million in bonds for the $25 million project. The bonds could include urban renewal bonds. The developer will pay back the bonds with the sales taxes and property taxes it would normally pay the city and county. The shopping development plan would put a major new retail complex in the center of the community and contribute greatly toward revitalizing and enhancing retail in Natchez. So far, the aldermen not asked for any personal guarantees from the promoters and developers to mitigate the downside risk of the project and bond. The city will hold public hearings in the near future to discuss the development plans and the financing scheme. The city currently earns $133,000 in sales and property taxes each year from the Tracetown District area. Under the proposal, the city will continue to get its $133,000 and the developer will use the increase in property and sales taxes collections to pay off the urban renewal bond. However, the city must pledge the entire amount of taxes collected, including the $133,000 to make the bond issue viable.

The environmental remediation plan for Tracetown Shopping Center will include removal of asbestos, installing a vapor barrier under the new stores, and isolating, capping and treating chemicals in the shallow ground water from the former dry cleaner location. The cleanup will allow the developers to build, secure financing and the city to issue a revenue bond to complete the project.

Adams County supervisors frequently maintain Carthage Point Road due to rising and falling waters . There are hunting camps oil wells, and a few residences in the area that often floods. Much of the road is a public roadway. But part of the road is private and the county purchased a right of way back in the 1960s to be able to do road work there and guarantee access for others. The Robert Johnson family has illegally erected a gate and placed a lock on the gate across the right of way, a violation of law. Johnson refuses to move the gate or the lock and wants to control access himself to who comes and goes on the public right of way. Supervisor Wes Middleton brought up the issue that the county should see legal redress in court to guarantee access to the road especially since there is a legislative appropriation to do repair work on the roadway. But Johnson still refuses to give access without special permission to approximately 6/10 of a mile of the road. When Middleton made a motion to go to court on the issue, Kevin Wilson voted with him. But Ricky Gray and Angela Hutchins voted against going to court to preserve the county’s rights. Warren Gaines was absent and the motion failed. The last time Robert Johnson appeared before supervises to discuss the issue, he mentioned that he got appropriation from the legislature of $500,000 to do repair work on his road. And he has no intention of letting anyone use the road without his permission. Gray and Hutchins support his position and appear willing to deny access to Adams County citizens as a political favor to Johnson.

Mapping problem

Adams County supervisors heard that the county’s mapping software for E911 is not always working properly. For some reason, the software is telling emergency and ambulance crews to go a longer route to the scene of accidents or calls. But since crews know the streets and roads of Natchez and Adams County, they’re ignoring the directions given by the computer and going straight to the scene by the shortest route. The software is in the middle of a mapping update. That could be the cause of the problem.

Concordia deputies arrested Caleb M. Goodwin, 36, Vidalia, for flight from an officer, possession of drugs, robbery, threatening a public official, damage to property and failure to appear. He remains in the parish jail. In 2023, he was arrested for simple assault and battery and possession of drugs. Deputies also arrested Braxton King, 21, of Clayton, for flight from an officer, robbery, possession of drugs, threatening a public official, criminal damage to property, and failure to appear. He remains in the parish jail. In 2023, he was arrested for possession of drugs. Criminal damage to property, simple assault, and disturbing the peace.

The Natchez Planning Department and Planning Commission bungled an application of a couple to operate a short term rental for visitors at 37 Homochitto Street. The owner couple had been running the rental for two years, not operating within current city rules. When the couple heard from city planners they needed actual permission to operate, the owners applied and received permission to continue. However, the city realized after permission was granted that the Homochitto address is not zoned for rentals to visitors, and the couple actually needed a zoning variance to be legal. Neighbors objected to the permitting because of ongoing noise from the property and the fact the city ignored its own rules granting the permit. An appeal has been filed. City aldermen will hear the appeal. The current city planner, Mingo Tingle, was not responsible for the mess, as the planning and planning application and research was done before he was hired. The previous planner and staff should have checked whether the house was located in a R1 or R2 zone. They did not. Short term rentals are allowed in R1 but should not be within 300 feet of each other. Additionally, both the homeowners and the appellant have suffered financial harm due to the city’s lack of care and incompetence. The aldermen are probably not going to be the final arbiters in this matter. And it’s likely the conflict will end up in a lawsuit, with a judge rendering a decision.

Juan Jose Chavez-Trevizo

On June 6, the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office received a report from the Department of Children and Family Services in reference to the sexual assault of a juvenile. The case was turned over to Detectives with the Concordia Sheriff’s Special Victims Unit. Detectives identified the suspect as Juan Jose Chavez-Trevizo, who had recently lived in Concordia Parish. It was also learned that Chavez was an illegal alien from Chihuahua, Mexico, and was currently living out of state. Detectives established probable cause and obtained arrest warrants for Chavez. With the assistance of the U.S. Marshals and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Chavez was taken into custody in Leitchfield, Kentucky, on August 6. Chavez was transported to Concordia Parish, where he was booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility and is currently being held on a $490,000 bond and a detainer for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Jose Chavez-Trevizo, 45, was charged with 3 Counts 2nd Degree Rape, 2 Counts Molestation of a Juvenile Victim Under 13 Years of Age, 4 Counts Molestation of a Juvenile, 1 Count Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile Victim Under 13 Years of Age.

In June 2024, Raquel D. Thomas of Ferriday, set fire to a vehicle. The fire spread from the vehicle to the nearby house. Firemen put out the blaze. She was arrested for arson and using social media for harassment. Thomas, now 26, had been arrested in Winnsboro this week, for setting a vehicle on fire and in a separate incident, setting a house on fire with six people inside. Her targeted victims escaped. She was arrested for six counts of attempted murder, two counts of aggravated arson and telephone harassment. She is being held in the Franklin Parish jail.

The English Motoring Club of Mississippi proudly announces its all British marque car show and celebration to be held in Natchez, the weekend of September 19-20. Meet & Greet: Friday evening, 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Join them at the lobby bar of the Grand Hotel for light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Natchez Show: Saturday 10 a.m. 111 North Broadway Street, in front of the Grand Hotel Awards presentation 2 p.m. Call 866-488-0898 or 601-446-9994 for reservations and be sure to reference “English Motoring Club” for the group rates. The number of rooms in the block are limited so please book early.

Body found

The body of missing person Juanita Robinson, 74, of Natchez, was found in her car just off Liberty Road on Saturday. She had had an accident, ran off the road and her car was found upside down with her body in the vehicle. Authorities have not said what was her actual cause of death.

The Franklin County Board of Supervisors plans no increase in the tax levy rate for the 2026 fiscal year. The tax millage rate will remain at 116.00 for the coming 2026 fiscal year.

The procedure for investigation of complaints against judges in Louisiana involves a hearing held in New Orleans at the offices of the Judiciary Commission of Louisiana. The commission does an investigation and makes a recommendation to the Supreme Court of Louisiana. If the Supreme Court decides on punishment or remediation for a judge, it will issue a public document on its decision. There are two investigations of Concordia-Catahoula judges underway, one a district judge and one a justice of the peace. A second justice of the peace is under formal supervision and training for remedial purposes. And no determination has yet been made in either of the two pending cases.

Gator near Natchez

Jimmy Appleton and Blake Daugherty were scouting gators as the season opened Labor Day weekend . The two men, both of whom live in Pope, Mississippi, were cruising in Appleton’s 17-foot aluminum boat, along with Blake’s two sons, 11-year-old Cruz and 9-year-old Cash. They were checking out an oxbow lake off the Mississippi River near Natchez. They landed a 14 feet ¼ inch alligator that weighed 662 pounds. It is the third largest gator caught in the state.

In Wilkinson County, student math and English proficiency are near the bottom of the state’s grading system. Without good math and English skills, many students will not reach the level of success they deserve in life and they would get from a higher rated school district. Of Wilkinson students: 16 percent of students show math proficiency and 21 percent of students show English proficiency Proficiency is defined as demonstrating the skills a student should have at their grade level. That means 79-84 percent of students are performing below grade level.

Concordia Parish has 5857 workers employed, down from 6095 a year ago, a decline of 238 jobs. The jobless rate has risen to 7.1%.

Possible millage cuts

The Catahoula Parish police jury wants to trim expenses. Declining revenues due to decreased economic activity and a decrease in population have affected jury revenues in recent years. The jury wants to cut back on the millage allocated to the Jonesville library and the Enterprise recreation district, with each agency getting a two mill cut. The proposal has brought about some opposition from library supporters, who feel funding of the library is critical. Jurors are responding to both the short term and long-term financial needs of the parish and the inability to fund core services. That’s why jurors feel some cut should be made because further economic deterioration is possible.

Natchez native Daisy Newman passed in 2021. She was an outstanding and celebrated opera vocalist. Now the Natchez Freshman Academy will be named for her.

Dr. Harold Wayne Barnett of Natchez has died at the age of 79. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degree from USM and his PhD from USM as well. He served as an educator in the Natchez schools for more than 40 years, including service as principal and later as athletic director of Natchez High. Adams County Supervisors appointed him to the school board after his retirement, where he was able to bring additional direction and management skills to the board. Barnett was always dedicated to kids and their welfare. He always put his students first.

Eileen Maher

Judge Eileen Maher has died at the age of 69. She was a practicing Natchez attorney who became Adams County Justice Court Judge for the Southern District. She was always dedicated to self-improvement and education and received numerous bachelor’s and master’s degrees, including receiving a nursing degree from USM. She held degrees from Boston College, Elms College, Western New England University, and Alcorn State. In her varied career, she taught children with disabilities and English as a second language to newcomers to this nation. Eileen was appreciated for her friendly and easy-going manner. As an attorney and judge, she was known for her commitment to civil rights and the practice of law for people of limited means. She and her husband, Mark La Francis, were fixtures in the community. As you probably know, Mark was the area’s biggest veterans supporter. He spent many years as public relations director for the Co-Lin campus and Natchez, and before that, he had a career in journalism as a reporter and editor. Mark passed in 2024. Eileen and Mark truly loved Natchez and its people, as witnessed by their volunteerism and community contributions.

Andre Jr. and Melissa Farish received a key to the City of Natchez in honor of the Under the Hill Saloon’s 50th anniversary.

There will be a special election for Adams County Justice Court Judge North on November 4. Candidates are Shameca Collins and Verna Johnson. Collins is serving as interim judge and Johnson was the former justice court clerk.

Natchez resident Juanita Robinson, 74, has been reported missing. She was last seen driving her silver 2011 Toyota Camry on Concord Avenue Aug. 26.

Promoter Hayes Dent and Natchez city officials announced the Eola Hotel will reopen in 2027, with 98 rooms under Marriott's brand, "Tribute Portfolio," emphasizing the property as a boutique hotel. The $30 million project has been delayed because of escalating costs of construction. The Eola closed in 2014.

Firemen from Woodville, Centreville and West Feliciana unsuccessfully battled a two story fire at the Fenimore Johnson House in the Sugar Hill section of Woodville. The home burned to the ground Aug. 12. A resident of the home, Kenneth Jones, suffered from smoking inhalation and was treated at Field Health and later at Baptist Hospital.

Pickleball for Natchez

Natchez aldermen are thinking about resurfacing and/or painting some of the tennis courts at Duncan Park and adding extra pickleball courts. Two pickleball courts may also be added North Natchez Park. The city will gather estimates of the costs, with a budgeting of $80,000-$100,000 likely. They may convert some to the existing tennis court spaces at Duncan Park to pickleball exclusively. Dimensions of tennis courts and pickleball courts are different, with pickleball courts smaller. Aldermen are looking at option B, which would eliminate three tennis courts and build 10 Pickleball courts at Duncan Park. Two more Pickleball courts would be built at North Natchez Park.

Brad Burget has been elected president of the Louisiana District Attorneys Association. He serves as D.A. for Concordia and Catahoula parishes.

On June 11, the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office received a report alleging criminal sexual conduct involving a juvenile victim. Detectives immediately launched an investigation into the matter. Through the course of the investigation, 42-year-old Robert D. Whitehead of Jonesville was identified as the suspect. Detectives developed probable cause, and arrest warrants were obtained for Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile and Felony Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile. On July 10, Whitehead was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Catahoula Parish Correctional Center. As the investigation progressed and forensic evidence was analyzed, Detectives were able to secure additional warrants. On August 25, Whitehead was rebooked on 21 counts of Pornography Involving Juveniles, Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor, and Child Grooming.

Fry Building

The Brushy Bayou Concordia Parish flood control project should be completed my May 2026. The police jury is constructing a drainage structure that reconnects Brushy Bayou to the Tensas River, to alleviate flooding in northern Concordia Parish. The jury is installing a large concrete triple box 196-foot-long culvert with sluice gates at the point where the Tensas-Cocodrie Area Levee exists now. The project also includes a weir to maintain Brushy Bayou's normal water level during dry seasons. The main goal is to restore natural drainage by re-establishing the flow of storm water from Brushy Bayou into the Tensas River, which helps to reduce flooding in the area. By allowing Bayou drainage into the river, the structure helps protect the protected side of the levee from high water on the Tensas River. The new 354-foot-long concrete capped weir on the inlet side will help maintain Brushy Bayou's normal elevation during dry periods. Flooding should be reduced from West Ferriday to Wildsville to near the outskirts of Jonesville. The improvements will not have an impact on the area east of Ferriday to Ridgecrest and Vidalia.

The Natchez mayor and aldermen discussed the Fry Building removal at this week's aldermen's meeting. They talked casually about providing the Eola with a free parking lot to use after demolition and repaving is complete. It was the first time city leaders talked in the open about the subsidies they plan to give the hotel. The aldermen have not passed any specific motions and funding for the Eola directly. In this case, as part of the in kind contribution to the grant to demolish the Fry Building, the city has pledged $120,000 in paving costs for the new parking lot to add to the project.

Insurance rep Fred Parker told Natchez aldermen the city’s health insurance for employees will cost the city $34,000 more this year. Parker coordinates the health insurance package for the city's 160+ employees and their families. The 12 percent increase in premiums is due in part to rising medical costs, as well as the age, health and claims history of city employees. Parker tried to market the city to other possible health insurers but found no takers.

Woodville shooters arrested

Woodville police, the Miss. Highway Patrol, Wilkinson deputies and Adams deputies worked together to find and arrest three shooters and an arsonist. Dayshun Lanus, 21, Latreviun Lanus, 18, and Jaylen Ephion, 19, were arrested for participating in several shooting attacks. The three men shot up several residences in Woodville, damaging the properties but not wounding or killing the people inside. Tavion Thompson, 39, was charged with arson. The arson was not related to the shootings.

Bond for accused shooter-killer Kobe Iohnson, 21, of Ferriday, has been set $700,000. He remains in jail. He has been charged with the second degree murder of Carlos Collins and the attempted murder and wounding of another man at the Montgomery Square Apts. In Ferriday. He was arrested in 2023 for dealing drugs in Grambling, La.

Jamarr Gregory Zepherine, Jr. was arrested by the Concordia Parish Sheriff's Office Cyber/Special Victims Unit on August 21, 2025, after communicating online with what he believed to be a 16-year-old juvenile female. Zepherine made plans to meet the juvenile in Concordia Parish for a sexual encounter after multiple online conversations. Upon his arrival at a prearranged meeting location, Zepherine was met by CPSO deputies, arrested, and booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility. The investigation is ongoing: He was charged with Computer-aided Solicitation of a Minor; Indecent Behavior with Juveniles; and Attempted Felony Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile.

Jimmie Maier Jr.

On May 21, the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office received a report in reference to criminal sexual conduct involving a juvenile victim. The case was turned over to Detectives with the Concordia Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit, who began their investigation. Jimmie Maier Jr. of Monterey was established as the suspect. Detectives obtained probable cause and arrest warrants for Maier. On July 11, Deputies and Detectives with the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office, along with agents with the Louisiana Probation and Parole, took Maier into custody without incident. Maier was booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility for 4 Counts of Sexual Battery Victim Under 13 Years of Age and 2 Counts of Indecent Behavior with Juveniles Victim Under 13 Years of Age. He is currently being held on a $500,000.00 bond. On Aug. 25, he was charged with an additional count of 1st Degree Rape Victim Under 13 Years of Age. He was rebooked on this charge at the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility, where he has been held since his original arrest on July 11. Natchez aldermen and Adams supervisors are expected to vote to keep the Natchez community pool open through September, so seniors can swim. The Carpenter pool has been closed for months. And the city says the repairing it will be too costly. While the Carpenter pool was open to everyone, it was mostly seniors who used it.

Adam deputies arrested Jumar Jackson, 33, of Natchez for assault causing bodily injury. He remains in jail. He has previously been arrested for robbery, multiple county of armed robbery and burglary. Deputies also arrested Yasmine Lyles, 27, of Natchez, on Aug 27 for assault causing bodily injury. She is now in jail. In July, she was arrested for an armed carjacking and physical assault by menace and then released on bond. Adams deputies arrested Jones, 21, of Natchez, and charged him with aggravated domestic assault and telephone threats.

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said the city is going to require all group homes to comply with zoning laws. Those homes operate in residential neighborhoods and must apply for a special exception to operate legally. The city has been receiving complaints from the public about the level of care some residents of these homes receive, including allegations of verbal and physical abuse targeting residents. The mayor said some of the homes are not tidy, have high grass and broken windows. The city has the right to close down any group home that does not meet the zoning, health and safety regulations of the city and the state. And a number of operators have been starting these homes to care for vulnerable adults without the proper legal authority from the city. The mayor said the city will protect vulnerable adults, but he did not promise to close offending and unsafe operators. At a minimum, the group home operators will have to apply for their zoning exceptions.

Angela Hutchins and Ricky Gray

At the most recent supervisors' meeting, Supervisors Angela Hutchins and Ricky Gray said Natchez High was getting unwarranted attention for its gang style fight last week. Both said there were similar fights at Cathedral, but the two supervisors did not provide any evidence to back their claims. Gray went on to say that "there are more drugs at Cathedral than anywhere.” That’s a direct quote from his comments at the meeting. He provided no evidence of searches performed, drugs found or arrests made. Cathedral responded by saying there were not similar outbreaks of fighting at its school. And the drug accusations are unfounded and without merit. Miss-Lou Magazine Publisher Peter Rinaldi said, "Due to Ricky Gray’s continuing irresponsible behavior and comments, including saying there are “more drugs at Cathedral than anywhere,” an obvious slander and lie, he should write a written apology to the school and then resign his seat immediately."

Adams County Sheriff Travis Patten said he has received a request from the Natchez school district to place school resource officers back into the schools. The sheriff said he received the recent request before the big fight at Natchez High.

Clayton Town Hall caught fire and burned the night of Aug. 25.

Kratom capsules

Kratom is still legal in Mississippi though banned in Louisiana. Natchez stores are selling it to minors. Local bans are in effect in some Mississippi towns. Adams County supervisors could ban the sale to protect public health. The FDA has sent out warnings about the drug because of the possibility of developing substance use disorder, liver toxicity, and seizures. Emergency room doctors across the nation say they have seen many cases of kratom toxicity causing respiratory distress, liver dysfunction, and heart problems.

Sheriff Travis Patten has asked supervisors to consider purchasing license plate readers to place at the entrances of Adams County, including Highway 61 North, Highway 84 coming in from Franklin County, Highway 61 South and at the Mississippi River Bridges. The readers can help identify wanted criminals who are traveling through the county. They are especially helpful for tracking drug dealers and human traffickers. Gangs have been coming into town from out of state, breaking into homes and also doing shootings. Then they leave town to hide out and come back again to cause more mayhem. Supervisors asked the sheriff to get an idea of what the cost would be to put LPR’s at all four entrances.

The Adams County unemployment rate has risen to 6.5 percent. But the number of employed has also increased to 10,050, up 250 from a year ago. There's been small growth this year in the number of retail and medical sector jobs.

Anne Moody

The Mississippi Freedom Trail unveiling of the Anne Moody marker will be held Sept. 15 from 10:00 a.m.-noon at the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, 8755 Hwy 24 East in Centreville. Anne Moody was a leading voice of the Civil Rights Movement through both her activist and her groundbreaking memoir Coming of Age in Mississippi. As a student at Tougaloo College, Moody participated in sit-ins, voter registration drives, and other efforts to dismantle segregation across the state. Her vivid account of growing up in the Jim Crow South gave the world an unflinching look at the realities of racial injustice and inspired generations to continue the fight for equality. The marker serves as a tribute to her enduring impact on the movement and beyond.

Adams County Emergency Services Director Robert Bradford told supervisors the new tornado sirens and software should be installed in mid September and operational by the end of the month.

Zandra McDonald, Tony Fields

Miss-Lou Magazine sent emails/texts to Zandra McDonald and Tony Fields asking them how the school district planned to respond to last week’s Natchez High fight. About 15 kids had a brawl in the hallway, including punching, striking and kicking their fellow students. Neither administrator has responded so far to our question. We've received conflicting info from school employees as to the length of suspensions students received for either participating in the fight or posting the fight videos online. Supposedly suspensions of 3-9 days were delivered, and a number of students were referred to juvenile court. The school has not said they were arrested. But it’s likely the fighters face misdemeanor charges based on the video footage. The high school is considering banning all cell phones on campus for students. It's uncertain if the ban is in place as yet or what the ban specifications include.

Woodville police responded to a call for help on Sligo Street. A 35-year-old man had shot himself and was unresponsive. He succumbed to his injuries. Authorities believe there was no foul play.

A Wilkinson County grand jury has reported back to Judge Carmen Drake. The jury inspected the jail and found many problems that county officials should repair. Light fixtures need restoring and repair. Ceiling tiles need replacement. Rusty benches need replacing. Toilets need repair. The handicap shower needs repair. Broken windows need to be fixed. The inmate recreational yard needs to be clean and tidy a busted wall needs repair. The jail needs to be cleaned of broken glass, loose screws, both and broken mortar. The jail needs more staff to secure the safety of employees and inmates. Wilkinson County supervisors learned of the jury’s report and did their own inspection county leaders, and the sheriff are expected to make repairs with or without a judge’s order. Judge Drake is expected to formalize the grand jury report into a court order.

E911 building

Adams County supervisors plan to move the combined city-county E911 services to their new building on Feltus Street, moving from the basement of the sheriff’s office. Supervisors will consider keeping backup operations at the SO, in case the Feltus Street operations go down. They’ll have to find extra money to fund a backup operation, as it was not part of the original funding plan. The county has invested at least $600,000 in the new E911 building and equipment. The city pays a share of the annual operating costs.

Adams County Master Gardeners will use the extension service grounds on Liberty Rd. to teach locals how to plan and work gardens and green spaces. The Gardeners will include youth as well as adults in the educational training. Supervisors agreed to help by assigning work crews to clear some of the vegetation to make it easier for the Gardeners to do their planting and teaching.

Natchez Garden Club offers 10 properties Sept. 27-Oct. 18 on tour to represent the diverse variety of architecture and unique stories the area has to offer. Take a journey through history during the early Spanish colonial era. Witness the evolution of the architectural styles from stately federal townhome to elaborate Greek revival mansion. Experience life in a gracious suburban estate. Learn about preservation efforts and try on a historic costume. Enjoy the magic of the Autumn season in an ornate Italianate Villa,. Take a day trip to Jefferson Davis’ boyhood home. Walk the grounds of a 225 year old cotton plantations complete with restored enslaved cabins and a cotton gin. Homes on tour include Choctaw, Ellicott's Hill, Frogmore, Glenfield, Linden, Magnolia Hall, Rosemont, The Stone House, Sunnyside and The Towers. For additional ticket information, contact the NGC office (601)443-9065. Or for more info, go to Natchezgardenclub.org.

Fall homes on tour

The Pilgrimage Garden Club’s Fall Pilgrimage of historic homes runs Sept. 25-Oct. 11. During this time, homes that are typically private residences open their tours for visitors to tour their property.Homes on tour include: (open daily) Longwood, Stanton Hall, Rosalie, Monmouth and for Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays: Thomas Staniforth House, Dr. Banks House, Mount Repose, Lansdowne, White Wings, Casey Mallory Townhouse, Green Leaves, Elodie Cottage, Concord Quarters, Devereaux Dates and times will vary. Buy advance tickets online. Tickets may also be purchased at the front door of each home (cash or card.) https://natchezpilgrimage.com/

The Franklin County Fair will return Sept. 4-6 with plenty of food, fun and festivities for everyone. The year’s fair will again be conducted at the Fairgrounds in Bude. Mississippi Delta Shows will again host the Midway with rides and games for adults and children alike. On Thursday, Sept. 4, the fair will run from 6-10 p.m. with wristbands for the midway available for $20 each. On Friday, Sept. 5, the fair will run from 6-10 p.m. with tickets only being accepted. On Saturday, Sept. 6, the fair will offer $25 wristbands for rides from 2-6 p.m., followed by tickets only being accepted from 6-10 p.m.

Adams deputies arrested Fred Carter, 41, of Natchez, for possession of and distributing Schedule I and Schedule III drugs. Bond was set at $250,000. He remains in jail. Carter was arrested in 2015 for possession and selling of drugs.

Police Chief Reggie Cain

Bude Police Chief Reggie Cain has resigned his post. He thanked the people of Bude for their support. He has served as the town’s chief since 2020.

Following the Deerfield Road attacks in July, Judge Danny Barber set bond on two of the assailants, Cameron Taunton and Houston Pretty, at $350,000 each. Judge Debra Blackwell then reset bond at $175,000 for Taunton and he remains in jail. Pretty’s bond was reset at $160,000 by Blackwell, and he is also in jail. Reginald Butler, who was the bicyclist attacked by two men and a juvenile, came back to the area later and shot and wounded another man. His bond was set at $50,000 and he posted bond and was released. All three men, Taunton, Pretty and Butler, were charged with aggravated assault. A fourth person was arrested, a juvenile, but the SO never said who he was, and his case was likely referred to juvenile court. Last November, Taunton was arrested for aggravated assault, 2nd degree battery and criminal trespassing in Concordia Parish by Concordia deputies after a fight. He was released on bond after his Concordia arrest. A grand jury will likely look at the Adams County case in detail and will decide whether to indict any or all of the combatants.

Ferriday Fire Chief Corey King said the Ferriday Methodist fire was most likely caused by lightning.

New bridge

The new Hwy. 98 bridge over the Homichitto River in Franklin County may open in May.

The Concordia Parish School District will start enforcing its pre-existing policy of requiring students to have a 2.0 grade average to play sports or participate in extracurricular activities.

A federal grant will fund $900,000 in firefighting equipment for the Natchez-Adams County Airport. The grant includes money for a new fire truck.

Contrell Milligan

Ferriday Police Chief Derrick Freeman said his officers have arrested Contrell Milligan, 24, of Ferriday, on charges of second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder, for his participation in the Montgomery Square Apartments shooting of August 10 that killed one man and wounded another. Three other men have already been arrested for the shooting.

A hunting club owner from Louisiana promised a $100,000 cash reward to any county official that would pave the far end of South Palestine Rd in Adams County. Supervisors had heard of the joking request and ignored it, as that part of the road has no homes on it. And it would not make sense to pave a road where there are no residents and no commercial traffic. But as the county's new road upgrades were finished, supervisors learned county crews had gone in and paved the road at a cost of $465,000 for the three mile stretch. Supervisors never included that section of the road in their road upgrade program and no supervisor admitted he or she broke the law by ordering the work. County crews won't say who ordered them to pave the section, fearing if they give out the name of the crooked supervisor, three supervisors will vote to fire the crew members who tattle. There's no indication whether the hunting club "bonused" anyone or just got the paving for free and for the asking.

Authorities recovered the body of Robert C. Sykes, 32, of Amite County, in The Narrows of Lake Mary, after he drowned during a boating accident. Sykes had been missing for three days. He had been fishing with a friend. The friend, Jay Brister, 49, of Liberty, was arrested for interfering with the investigation and was placed in the Wilkinson County jail. The body was transported to the Mississippi crime lab for an autopsy. The investigation is ongoing.

Sheriff Travis Patten

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office announced that Sheriff Travis Patten has been appointed Vice Chair of the 2025–2026 Board of Governors for the Small & Rural Law Enforcement Executives’ Association (SRLEEA). His installation took place during SRLEEA’s Annual Conference in Lawrence, Kansas, where leaders from across the country gathered to advance the mission of supporting small, rural, and tribal law enforcement agencies.

State Rep. Robert Johnson and his family have denied access to land they own on Carthage Point Rd. even though the county has a right of way through the land it purchased more than 60 years ago. That was before the Johnson Family owned the land. The right of way would allow the public and the county access, but the Johnsons have put a locked gate across the dirt road. Supervisor Kevin Wilson said he and Wes Middleton voted to seek a court order to force the reopening of the right of way, so that property owners could get to their lands. But Supervisors Gray, Hutchins and Gaines voted against the idea of going to court. So landowners in the area will have to get permission from the Johnsons to access the properties they own.

Natchez High was the scene of a student melee in the hallways on August 15, where students brawled with each other for about five minutes. About a dozen male students were involved, kicking, punching and hitting each other with great force. Two videos circulated documenting the mob attacks. FB took down one of the videos and gave a partial suspension. I will have to remove the other video to avoid further punishment. It’s unfortunate because the story is news, as would be the school administrators reaction to the gang like violence. So far, the school district has not responded to the violence.

Ferriday dealers arrested

In 2023, Jatayius Johnson, of Ferriday, was arrested by Concordia deputies for possession and distribution of synthetic marijuana, marijuana, ecstasy, ocycodone, crack cocaine and possession of a scale used for weighing drugs. He was released on bond. This past week, Johnson, now 25, was arrested again by Concordia deputies, this time for possession and distribution of legend drugs and schedule I and schedule II drugs. He was released on bond one more time. Concordia deputies also arrested Garyon Leonard, 27, of Ferriday, for the distribution and possession of legend drugs and possession of schedule I and schedule II drugs. He has been released on bond. A legend drug is a prescription drug approved by the FDA that is often sold on the street illegally.

Natchez firefighters and Adams County volunteers responded to two fires over the weekend. Both homes were fully engulfed in flames when crews arrived, and both burned to the ground: 564 Old Hwy. 84 and 12 Hwy. 553. There were no reported injuries.

The Miss. Department of Revenue begins it sales tax fiscal year July 1. Natchez collections received from the state were down 1,7 percent from a year ago, reflecting a small decrease in retail sales activity in town. Natchez: July 2024 $475,000 July 2025 $467,000.

Ferriday shooters arrested

Kobe Johnson, 21, is now in custody. Jakyareon Hawkins, 22, turned himself in for questioning. Both have been booked for 2nd Degree Murder and Attempted Murder for shooting and killing one man and wounding another on Aug. 10 at Montgomery Square Apartments in Ferriday. Police arrested Jaylon Mitchell, 19, (red t shirt) and charged him with the second-degree murder, two counts of attempted murder and illegal possession of a weapon. Concordia deputies arrested Mitchell last November for distributing drugs and possession of a weapon while distributing drugs. He was released on bond at that time. In July 2022, Hawkins was arrested by Ferriday police for aggravated assault with a firearm. Johnson was arrested in 2023 for distributing drugs in Grambling, La. Three of the four suspects have been identified by video surveillance. There’s still one unidentified subject at this time. This is still an ongoing investigation. We urge our community once again if you know something, say something! If you have information on the fourth suspect, call the PD. Contact Investigator Del’Marcus Johnson or Chief Derrick J. Freeman at the Ferriday Police Department at 318-757-3606.

Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft announced that Amazon will open a small warehouse at 2012 Carter St. Aldermen approved a business permit for the operation.

The Town of Bude will hold a public hearing on its proposed budget and proposed tax levies for fiscal year 2025-2026 on August 26 at 5:45 p.m. at Town Hall.

Greg Iles

Greg Iles, a Mississippi author of several New York Times best-selling novels, has died at the age of 65.According to an obituary in The Natchez Democrat, Iles passed away around 5 a.m. Friday, Aug. 15. The Natchez resident had multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer.Iles was born in Germany in 1960 while his father ran a medical clinic at the U.S. Embassy. According to a profile on his website, Iles spent time in Mississippi in his youth. He was a 1983 graduate from the University of Mississippi.Iles went on to write novels sold around the world. Many of his books were thrillers and Southern Gothics that explored politics, legacy and racism in Mississippi. Some have been made into movies.He was also a member of The Rock Bottom Remainders, a charitable rock group made up of authors. Bandmates included Stephen King, Amy Tan and Dave Barry. He is survived by his wife Caroline and four children.What did Greg Iles write?Iles was the author of the popular Natchez Burning Trilogy, which is a subset of his Penn Cage series. The trilogy includes "Natchez Burning," "The Bone Tree" and "Mississippi Blood." In a statement on his website, Iles called them his "magnum opus."In all, there are seven Penn Cage novels and a novella, though he also wrote several other thrillers.What is multiple myeloma?Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that develops in the plasma. The disease causes blood cells to grow abnormally in the bone marrow.The cancer is treatable but it's considered incurable. Iles noted the same disease killed Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton, Colin Powell, Norm McDonald, Roy Scheider and Geraldine Ferraro.How long did Greg Iles fight cancer?In a health update on his website, Iles outlined his cancer battle.He was first diagnosed at the age of 36 in 1996."After nearly dying from an experimental treatment, I—with the blessing of my father, the inspiration for Dr. Tom Cage—withdrew from the medical system and continued my writing career, while keeping my illness completely secret," Iles wrote.He said it caused anxiety but managed to live more than two decades as "one of the luckiest patients alive" with a case that didn't have terminal progression.Iles said the cancer "switched on" in recent years, almost killing him before he realized. Treatments had improved over 20 years.He pushed to complete "Southern Man," his last novel, before undergoing a stem cell transplant and underwent the procedure after finishing the book but before it was published in 2024."You might be interested to learn that as I wrote Southern Man, the connection that always existed between Penn Cage and myself became even deeper, to the point that Penn took on my own secret struggle with mortality, along with the existential and political themes of this novel. Hopefully, Southern Man is a richer book because of it," Iles wrote.He closed the update wishing other people suffering similar health problems well."My last thought for today is that only two things matter: family and friends," he finished.

Church fire

Ferriday Methodist burned to the ground Thursday evening despite the efforts of firefighters. No one was reported injured. Photos: Tish Giamanco, Anna Ferguson

The Wilkinson County School District has a very low graduation rate. Only 68.2 % of its students actually graduate or go onto additional vocational training. The Jefferson County School District ranks in the top 10 school districts in the state, in terms of a low dropout rate for students. Only 1.7% of Jefferson County students drop out before graduating or going into additional vocational training.

A Catahoula Parish jury found George “Boom” Thomas guilty of obstruction of justice in homicide of Tia Renee Wiley. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 28.

Corey King

Ferriday Fire Chief Corey King suffered minor injuries this week fighting a Ferriday house fire. He received treatment at the hospital after debris fell on him.

Vidalia aldermen have increased water rates. Bills will average $30-$100 per month, depending upon usage. Commercial and industrial rates are also increasing.

Adams deputies arrested Emerson Hill Jr., 37, of Natchez were aggravated domestic assault and the sale, transfer or distribution of a controlled substance. His bond was set at $75,000 for the aggravated assault and just $10,000 for dealing drugs. He remains in jail. In July 2024, he was arrested for a simple assault domestic violence. Deputies also arrested Ijose West, 44, of Natchez, for contempt of court, legal possession of a controlled substance and introduction of contraband into jail. Her bond has been set at $40,000. In 2021, she was convicted of shoplifting and sentenced to six months in jail, but all 10 days was suspended. In 2023, she was arrested for receiving stolen property, a felony.

Bad accounting practices

The Silas Simmons CPAs audit report of the 2023 City of Natchez finances and accounting shows many problems persisting and unresolved since 2020, when the new administration first came into office. The messy highlights include: Deficit spending of $2.7 million, $365,000 in bounced checks, over-budget expenditures by 16.9%, escalating annual debt costs, failure to do accounting correctly or accurately, incompetent bookkeeping. In 2023, Natchez city government spent $29.46 million and had revenues $26.76 million, for a deficit of $2.7 million. The city spent more than $356,000 in bank overdrafts, a sign it does not live within in its means and issues checks in spite of having a zero or negative balance in checking accounts. Overdraft charges are incurred when the city issues payroll checks without have enough money in the bank to cover payroll. The mayor and aldermen did not follow their own pre-determined budget, exceeding expenditures by 16.4%. The city spent $4.8 million on general government, $7.2 million on public safety, $3.5 million on public works, $4.5 million on culture, recreation, senior services and transportation, $488,000 on economic development, and $5.9 million on debt service principal, interest and loan origination costs. The CPA's negative findings include: Bank Reconciliations: Bank reconciliations are not being properly reconciled to the general ledger or in a timely manner. Accounting Records and Financial Statement Preparation: Transactions are not being recorded to the City's general ledger in a timely manner. Interfund Transfers, Due To/From, and Advances: Inter-fund transactions are not being recorded timely or accurately. Segregation of Duties: During the process of obtaining an understanding of internal control in planning the audit, assessing control risk, and assessing fraud risk, a lack of segregation of duties was noted. Compliance with Reporting Requirements: The City's Single Audit was not filed with the Federal Audit Clearinghouse by June 30, 2024. Documentation of Adjusting Journal Entries: Adjusting journal entries posted to the general ledger lack a proper and adequate documentation. Inventory: An itemized inventory of assets was not compiled, which should include properties, buildings, furnishings, vehicles, machines, computers, major tools and equipment was not done as required by state law. The City promises to follow good accounting and bookkeeping practices in the future. It has not done so in recent years. The City Clerk said she will comply with the CPA's advice and directions. However, as in past years, she and her staff have been unable to do the job due to a lack of competence. Despite, annual promises to fix problems, they appear unwilling or unable to learn the skills necessary to do the job. However, it's not al the Clerk's fault. City leaders knew they ran over budget and continued to spend anyway, making it certain the city would be bouncing checks.

Ferriday shooting

Ferriday Police Chief Derrick Freeman said he may have more information later on the shooting that killed one person end wounded another early morning Aug. 10 at Montgomery Square Apartments. Freeman said, "The Police Department is seeking the public’s help in solving a homicide that left one victim deceased and one injured. On August 10, 2025 at approximately 11:50 pm, Officers with the Ferriday Police Department responded to the Montgomery Square Apartments after reports of shots being fired. Officers arrived on scene and located a male victim with a gunshot wound. He succumbed to his injuries at Trinity Medical Center. Through investigation, Investigator Johnson was able to capture photos and video footage of the alleged subjects and vehicle.This was a senseless act of violence said Johnson. I encourage anyone who may have seen or heard something to speak up. To the family and friends, our deepest condolences to all his family and friends who are suffering from his loss. May God grant you peace, comfort and strength during this extremely difficult time. This investigation is ongoing.Anyone with information on the suspects’ identities or their location can contact Investigator Del’Marcus Johnson or Chief Derrick J. Freeman at the Ferriday Police Department at 318-757-3606."

Mississippi River Gas customers lost their natural gas service on August 4. The company notified customers of a shut off date of August 20. But the company shut off the gas early. MRG had been relying on another company, Pinnacle, to provide a propane air mix to serve rural customers. But the mix did not work well. And now Pinnacle and MRG will not be working together. Many of the customers now without service are in Adams County.

Entergy will invest $500,000 to build and maintain two electric vehicle charging stations at the Natchez convention center parking lot. The city and utility will sign an agreement giving Entergy a right of way. Company spokesman Tyson Reno said the quick charge stations should charge most cars and 30 to 40 minutes up to an 80% charge. EV owners will use their credit cards to pay for the service.

Dr. Pinnen has won national and international research fellowships from the German Historical Institute, the LSU and University of Texas Libraries, and has presented his research in Europe and the US. He was selected as the Mississippi Humanities Teacher of the Year in 2019, and Complexion of Empire in Natchez won the 2021 Book of the Year Award from the Mississippi Historical Society. In 2024, he was named the Humanities Scholar of the Year by the Mississippi Humanities Council and Distinguished Professor of the Year at Mississippi College.The April 22 program is funded in part by a grant from the Mississippi Humanities Council, through funding by the National Endowment for the Humanities. For more information, visit natchezhistoricalsociety.org or call 601-431-7737. Emails may be sent to info@natchezhistoricalsociety.org

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