Local News - Miss-Lou Magazine

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

Natchez High fight

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.

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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.

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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.

Theft of funds

Wilkinson County Circuit Clerk Lynn Delaney took at least $14,000 improperly and illegally from the county, according to the Bridgers CPAs 2021 audit of Wilkinson County finances. Supervisors have agreed to a repayment plan in which the clerk may pay off the balance in approximately six months. County officials are not calling it a theft, but the misappropriation was rather obvious, when the clerk moved monies from the county account to an account outside of the county in small and even amounts without properly documenting the transfers. When asked by the CPAs to explain the $12,000 move to an outside account and an extra $3600 paid to her fee account, the clerk offered no answers whatsoever. The transfers were purposeful and not accidental. She did not offer to make repayment until she was caught by the CPA’s report. Even though the “misappropriation” occurred in 2021, she did not offer repayment until the audit came out in 2025.

Adams County residents should put out their trash containers by 6:30 am. Sometimes the crews run early, sometimes late. Pickup times can vary week to week, especially when the trucks are full and have to go to the landfill to empty their loads.

Co-Lin President Dr. Dewayne Middleton told Adams supervisors that Co-Lin has the highest graduation rate of the 15 junior colleges in the state. Middleton said his school is stepping up its recruiting efforts, because only 15% of recent high school graduates in the area attended Co-Lin this past year. The college continues to offer quality academic and vocational course offerings. A two year associates degree at Co-Lin is accepted for academic credit by universities in the state, leading to a four year B.A. or B.S. degree. The college has also expanded its core offerings to include vocational training in the major building trades and welding, which offer promising careers for those completing the curriculum.

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Deputy arrested

Concordia deputies have arrested Deputy Drakel Carter, 22, of Ferriday, for malfeasance in office and simple battery. He has been relieved of his duties. The Louisiana State Police are conducting an investigation.

Adams County deputies arrested Antonio Clay, 34, of Natchez, for assault. He remains in jail. In 2015, he allegedly shot and murdered a man at Holiday Apartments and was charged by Natchez police for the crime. In 2011, he was arrested for a shooting at the Natchez Mall. He was indicted for conspiracy to murder and accessory after the fact of murder and never tried. The charges were later dropped. Deputies also arrested Ikeria Bradford, 29, of Natchez, for domestic aggravated assault, failure to comply and disorderly conduct. She’s currently being held in jail.

Bridgers CPAs completed and published their 2021 Wilkinson County audit. Like the 2020 audit, the county had many negative findings, with over 100 major and minor bookkeeping, accounting, policy, administrative, fiscal problems and errors. including violations of law. Bookkeeping was a mess. Many funds had deficit balances. Improper accounting was routine. Those who were found deficient in performance, according to accepted accounting principles and Mississippi law included the inventory control clerk, the five supervisors, the circuit clerk, the chancery clerk and staff, the justice court clerk, the sheriff and the tax collector-assessor. At least $12,000 was transferred from county accounts run by the circuit clerk to accounts outside of the county, with no explanation or justification. Another $3,600 was transferred from the circuit clerk’s office account to the circuit clerk’s fee account with no documentation or explanation. The circuit clerk would normally take his or her pay from the fee account. Without further investigation, it would not be possible to say whether those funds were misappropriated or not. However, it is quite certain that no county funds should be transferred by the circuit clerk to accounts that don’t belong to the county under most circumstances. These transfers were not for the payment of bills or payroll and the clerk offered no explanation as to why the transfers occurred.

Judge Drake, Sheriff Jackson

Judge Carmen Drake ordered the Wilkinson County grand jury to to convene and inspect the physical condition and sanitation of the county jail. She had received info that the prisoners' safety and well being was not protected. The jury will report back to the judge and Drake has the option of ordering county officials to improve conditions immediately. The jury is also supposed to examine the medical and mental health care provided by the jail. According to state law, Sheriff Reginald Jackson is in charge of safety for the jail and court house.

Natchez Little Theatre presents "Casserole" Aug. 21-25. Set in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Casserole revolves around Clair Wilson, a Godly woman with love to spare. A normal day goes into high gear when Clair learns that a publisher saw her recipe for “Mayonnaise Casserole” and wants to feature her in a new cookbook, The Midwest Chef. Leonard, her grumpy husband, isn’t happy with the situation and their daughter Erica, an abstract artist living in New York City, suddenly shows up with stunning news and a mysterious friend, Penny. Arriving for dinner are the hipster editor, Zachary, and his photographer, Nicholas, who have a hidden agenda for the cookbook. A wild menu is set before them. A food-slinging argument erupts, revealing secrets and setting the stage for Clair’s loving wisdom. Show dates and times: Thursday, August 21 at 7:30 PM, Friday, August 22 at 7:30 PM, Saturday, August 23 at 7:30 PM, Sunday, August 24 at 2:00 PM. Tickets: General admission $25, seniors 65+, military and students $15. Visit https://www.thenatchezlittletheatre.com/ for more information. Or call 601-442-2233.

The Concordia Parish Clerk of Court has traditionally prohibited taking photographs of public records, going back to at least 2010. This is unconstitutional. Any person has a right to examine public records in the clerk’s office and photograph those records at no charge, as long as the photographing does not interfere with the operation of the office. The office may charge a fee to make copies of any records, if the person requests copies.

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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Bobby J. Earls (Catahoula News Booster)

The Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of Bobby J. Earls following the issuance of a warrant by Seventh Judicial District Judge John Reeves for the offense of Sexual Battery upon a victim under the age of twelve. On August 8, 2025, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Earls was taken into custody without incident. He is being held without bond pending a formal magistrate hearing. Sheriff Toney Edwards issued the following statement: “Crimes against children are among the most unforgivable acts in our society. Let me be clear — in Catahoula Parish, we will use every resource at our disposal to investigate and arrest anyone who harms a child."

Paul Hughes, 75, of Smithdale, died from injuries received in a two vehicle accident on Hwy. 570 in Franklin County. The other driver, Corey Pendleton, 22, was taken to Southwest Regional Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.

Adams County supervisors plan to build up the road bed on Carthage Point Rd. Parts are open to traffic. Other parts are closed due to a locked gate. It is always the first road to flood during high water in Adams County. Very few people live on the road permanently, but there are a few camps.

Chronic Wasting Disease

Part of Jefferson County will be added to chronic wasting disease area in Mississippi. Hunters are asked to harvest more deer this year up to the bag limit, because there are so many deer. CWD. Is expected to move slowly to the south. 128 deer tested positive for CWD in the past year in this state.

Last September, Clifford E. Payne III, 26, of Vidalia, was arrested by Vidalia police for armed robbery and second degree battery. Now he’s been arrested by Vidalia police again, this time for motor vehicle theft and criminal trespass. He has bonded out. He also faces felony charges in Catahoula, where he bonded out.

Ferriday police arrested Reggie Washington, 39, of Ferriday, for felon in possession of a firearm, possession of an illegally modified firearm and possession of schedule I drugs. He remains in the parish jail. In 2017, he was arrested for possession of an intent to distribute schedule I schedule II, schedule III and schedule IV drugs.

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Chief Joey Merrill

Vidalia Police Chief Joey Merrill wants to make citizens aware of a scam text message concerning unpaid toll fees. “If you receive this or similar text messages, emails or phone calls about paying toll fees, unpaid tickets or bench warrants, please do not respond or share any of your information,” said Merrill. “Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles doesn’t send out such messages.”

Two suspects were arrested in Adams County after a Monday night chase involving a stolen log truck that began in Franklin County. According to Franklin County Sheriff Tom Tindle, around 9:15 p.m. Monday, deputies were called to an incident where a log truck was parked at Roxie Truck Stop had been stolen. Tindle said the driver of the log truck parked his truck overnight there on a regular basis. "A witness saw the truck going down Highway 84 and noticed that either a brake was locked up or something was dragging the ground and sending sparks everywhere," Tindle said. "The owner of the truck was contacted and he told the caller that he was at home and wasn't driving the truck." The witness elected to follow the truck, keeping sheriff's deputies informed along the way. The truck entered Adams County, where deputies there joined in on the chase. "After entering Adams County, the truck turned off on a side road and stopped next to a car," Tindle said. "People got out of the car and into the log truck." The sheriff said that vehicle was impounded. When the transfer of people took place, at least one shot was fired in the direction of the witness. On Tuesday morning, deputies found two men walking along the road. After questioning the men, it was learned they had spent the night in the woods and they were taken into custody. Christopher James Payne, 26, of Natchez, and Larry Lamonte Stampley, 23, of Natchez, were both taken into custody and transported to the Adams County jail. Both men were being charged by Franklin County officials with felony taking of a motor vehicle and conspiracy to commit a crime. Bond was set at $30,000 for each suspect. Payne is still in jail on receiving stolen goods, armed robbery and false pretense charges. Stampley faces similar charges but is out on bail. Payne was charged with kidnapping and threatening his girlfriend with a tire tool in 2021. Stampley was charged with assault and domestic violence in 2023.

A historical marker honoring the Miss-Lou Memorial Day Parade has been approved by the Miss. Department of Archives and History. The parade is one of the oldest Memorial Day parades in the United States. The marker will be installed at 639 S. Canal St., in front of the Holiday Inn, where the parade participants travel on their way to the Natchez National Cemetery. An installation ceremony will be scheduled for early 2026.

Still wet in hole

Vidalia crews and contractors hope to pump all the water out of the sinkhole at Concordia and Elm, so they can fill the hole and make strret reapirs. Water keeps entering the hole, slowing the repair process.

The Concordia jobless rate has jumped to 7.3%. The parish reports 6,020 employed, down 126 jobs from a year ago. Catahoula has a 6.7 percent unemployment rate and 3,189 workers with jobs, down 113 jobs from last year at this time.

A historical marker honoring the Miss-Lou Memorial Day Parade has been approved by the Miss. Department of Archives and History. The parade is one of the oldesr Memorial Day parades in the United States. The marker will be installed at 639 S. Canal St., in front of the Holiday Inn, where the parade participants travel on their way to the Natchez National Cemetery. An installation ceremony will be scheduled for early 2026.

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Judge Barber, Keith, Moore

Judge Danny Barber set no bond on Tyler Keith, 32, who was arrested for possession of more than 1000 photos of child porn. Barber felt the accused was a threat to society and likely to reoffend. Keith is a flight risk, having hid out in Galveston, Tex., and allegedly committed arson and burglary there. Barber also set no bond for Jadarius Moore, 24, who was charged with domestic assault. Moore refused to sign court paperwork and participate in his hearing. The judge decided to hold him without bond until he follows the court’s operating procedures. Pics: Judge Barber, Keith, Moore

Some first amendment auditors visited Jefferson, Wilkinson and Adams counties to record videos on public streets and sidewalks and in government offices. They also visited Catahoula Parish as well. When near the Catahoula courthouse, parish Homeland Security Director Eliis Boothe angrily confronted the auditors and demanded to know who they were. They continued filming. Later they went to his office to file a public records request and Boothe struck the videographer several times. The man did not strike Boothe. Boothe was later arrested for the assault and the case has been turned over to District Attorney Brad Burget for investigation.

The City of Natchez announced the continued professional development of one of its alderwomen. Alderwoman Valencia Hall has achieved the Professional Development Level certification through the Mississippi Municipal League, marking the highest level of distinction offered by the organization’s Certified Municipal Official program.

Taylor Fleming

In the early morning hours of July 31, 2025, deputies with the Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a shooting at a residence on Hwy. 61 North in Natchez. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult female who had sustained a gunshot wound to her left forearm, with an exit wound observed in her upper back. She was initially transported to Merit Health Natchez and later flown to another medical facility for further treatment. While early reports suggested the shooting was accidental, investigators later discovered conflicting information at the hospital. The victim disclosed that, following a disagreement with her boyfriend, she had stepped outside to clear her head. Upon returning inside the residence, she was shot in the back by a male subject. Deputies identified and detained a male suspect at the scene. Following an interview at the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, the individual/suspect, identified as Taylor Fleming, 25, of Natchez, confessed that the shooting had not occurred as initially described. Fleming was placed under arrest and charged with Aggravated Assault Domestic Violence and Tampering with Evidence. Bond was set at $175,000. Fleming pleaded guilty to simple assault in 2023.

Concordia Extension in Vidalia is not open to through traffic due to ongoing sinkhole repairs. If you are dropping your children at Vidalia Upper and Lower Elementary, you need to take Cross St.

Pieces of the exterior of the Eola Hotel have benn falling onto the sidewalk and into the street, causing a threat to safety. The city has blocked one of the sidewalks near the hotel to protect walkers-by. Mayor Dan Gibson says the city will send a letter to the Eola owner, Rob Lubin, telling him he must fix and stabilize the exterior, so it is not a threat to pedestrians and parked cars. Debris from stories up have fallen on parked cars, causing minor damage.

The Briars

A new Natchez antebellum homeowners group of six owners, Living History Natchez, will go its own way, separate from the two garden clubs to market their houses too tourists. For info, call 601-653-0919.

An independent auditor visited the Jefferson County sheriff’s department to see if deputies and staff there would uphold his constitutional rights to record video on the property. Deputies and staff were very polite. They asked the auditor what he was doing, and he told them. Then they allowed him to continue to video without reservation, supervision or harassment. The auditor’s constitutional rights were protected. The good treatment he received was in stark contrast to the treatment he received at the Adams County sheriff’s office. As the auditor video recorded deputies’ cars, three deputies came outside and told him to stop. The deputies said he could not stand on the public sidewalk and film without their permission, which of course is baloney. It looked like a confrontation was in the offing, until Chief Deputy Shane Daughtry came out and led the other three deputies away. The Supreme Court has ruled private citizens can film or record on public property without permission. There are certain limitations. The recording cannot interfere with an investigation or present a safety hazard.

The City of Natchez announced that it has begun efforts to ensure compliance with House Bill 1203, recently passed legislation that requires municipalities to take action to prevent and remove homeless encampments on public land. The Natchez Police department will begin posting signs at known homeless encampments to alert those taking up residence that they are not permitted to remain on city property, giving 24 hours notice to vacate. Mississippi House Bill 1203, passed on April 17, is summarized as: "An Act To Prohibit Camping On Certain Public Property; To Provide Definitions For This Act; To Provide That No Person May Occupy A Campsite Inconsistent With The Regulations Of This Act Unless Specifically Authorized By The Applicable Governing Authority On Which The Campsite Is Located." It is the goal of The City of Natchez to comply with this newly enacted state legislation, and to be responsible custodians of city-owned property, ensuring the continued safety and cleanliness of public city land.

Trinity staying open

Due to unfounded rumors about Medicaid, people started a rumor that Trinity Medical would close. In fact, revenues were up 18 percent in the most recent year reported to $31.4 million, with an over $2.3 million surplus. Incredibly healthy, more financially stable than ever, with nearly double the revenues Riverland achieved. The hospital is staying open.

The City of Natchez appears to be skirting the bidding laws of the state of Mississippi. If the city rejects the lowest bid, it must be stated in open discussion and in the minutes why that bid was rejected in specifics. If a different bid was accepted, then the reasons why must be so stated. Simply receiving a recommendation from a department head to choose one bid over another is not adequate nor are off the cuff behind closed doors conversations adequate to reject one bidder and accept another. It is not adequate to reject a low bid because the City would prefer to do business with a company that has a previous good track record with the city. Failure to follow the bidding laws and recent court opinions can result in the injured party demanding and receiving total compensation for the contract plus attorneys fees. Additionally, if city leaders disparage a company and it turns out their criticisms are incorrect or misleading, the injured company could receive additional damages.

Jonesville Main Street is one of the 11 Louisiana communities to receive Technical Assistance grants. The Jonesville grant is for $27,000. This grant will be added to the monies raised from various events like Bingo Nights and Friday Night After 5. The Main Street boundaries stretch from Main Street southeast to Mound and part of Front Street, then from LA Highway 84 northeast to Lee Road. Vacant buildings in this area are in the process of revitalization. Sidewalks and walkways will be improved with added lighting for pedestrians. Jonesville Mayor Loria Hollins says revitalizing downtown creates a better business environment and opportunities to build on the town’s unique history and resources.

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New scanner

The Natchez Police Department asked aldermen to approve a contract with AD&S, a Brandon, Miss. firm, to supply a fingerprint scanner, software support, and maintenance. The police chief explained that the department has not had a working scanner for three years, since Chief Daughtry was in charge. Aldermen were surprised to learn that the police department has not had an operating fingerprint scanner for such a long time.

Natchez police arrested Tomika Drane, 46, of Natchez, for felony shoplifting, felony sale of drugs and felony possession of drugs in a correctional facility. In 2023, she was charged with identity theft and bank fraud and then for possession of drugs in a correctional facility in Concordia Parish. In 2023, she allegedly participated in a theft ring that broke into people’s houses, stole checks and then cashed them around town.

Adam’s deputies arrested Kendrick Nelson, 39, of Natchez, for failure to register as a sex offender. He was convicted in 2013 of child fondling and sentenced to five years in MDOC.

Hiring cops

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said the city is about to start an ad campaign to attract new police officers, emphasizing that Natchez pays more and offers a higher quality of life. The ads will be placed regionally and outside of the immediate area in hopes of attracting Mississippi and Louisiana applicants.

Alderman Billie Joe Frazier has correctly pointed out that contractors for the city are putting in low bids to win bids and then putting in a series of change orders afterwards that call for more work and more money to be spent. The aldermen routinely approve the extra work and extra expense. That makes the projects go over budget. Alderpersons Frazier, Irving and Hall have expressed concern that projects are continuing to go past deadline due to the slowness of contractors. They point to work on the convention center and Duncan Park clubhouse as examples. The trio voted to change the city’s errant policy. However, Mayor Dan Gibson disagreed and said the contractors were doing a good job and the change orders are necessary. When it came to a vote, Alderpersons Smith, Davis and Moroney voted against reforming the process and Gibson broke the tie. The contractors will stay in place. The extra low bids will be approved. Change orders will be accepted. Delays in work will be ignored. And project costs will increase.

Natchez aldermen formally adjudicated nearly 30 derelict properties at this week’s meeting. The city has targeted more than 200 properties that are in just awful shape in recent years, during both the Grennell and Gibson administrations. The city can charge the property owners for cleanup and demolition. The process to cleanup is very slow, as once the derelict property is adjudicated, the city has limited funds for cleanup and demolition. Some properties have been in rotten condition for 10-20 years. Commander Lee Best has been working hard with property owners to comply with city law. Some owners have been responsive. Others have not. And some are financially unable to make repairs or do cleanup. Aldermen have credited Best for his excellent work.

Calendar

The Franklin County 2025-2026 school year is rapidly approaching, with staff development and student registration taking place next week. The first full day of classes will be on Friday, Aug. 8. Important dates during the school year include: Aug. 4-6: Staff Development/Student Registration Aug. 8: Classes Begin Full Day Sept. 1: Labor Day Oct. 6-10: 1st Nine Weeks Test Oct. 13: Columbus Day Oct. 16: Report Card Pickup/3:30-6 p.m. Nov. 24-28: Thanksgiving Holidays Dec. 4: Parade Day / 60% Day Dec. 17-23: 2nd Nine Weeks Test Dec. 24, 2025-Jan. 6, 2026: Christmas Holidays.

Dewayne Whetstone with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department warned residents of a phone call scam concerning unpaid tickets, fines and federal subpoenas was making its way through the area. “A person calling himself Captain Hudson with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and using a Roxie phone number is calling folks about unpaid tickets, fines and federal subpoenas,” Whetstone said. “We do not have a Captain Hudson nor a person named Hudson period working for Franklin County. If you receive this call, block it and move on.”

Adams County administrator Mitzi Conn told supervisors that the airport authority recommended that interim airport director Larry Matthews get a raise from $18 an hour to $21.50 an hour. This would give Matthews a pay of $44,700 per year, not counting overtime. Supervisors voted unanimously to give him the pay raise, which will be permanent even after a new airport director has been hired. Conn mentioned that four people had applied for the permanent airport director’s position, and that she expected the airport authority to recommend a finalist to supervisors. While the airport ran its own business for many years, with a board of commissioners, supervisors recently changed the set up to where they are in charge of the airport directly and an airport advisory board makes recommendations to supervisors for spending, policy and administrative improvements.

Tint arrests

Some states consider a window tint violation a traffic offense. But in Mississippi, it is considered a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $1000. Adams County deputies do arrest and put in jail people who disobey the window tint law. The tint can be a threat to officers who are doing traffic stops, is commonly used by drug dealers to hide their activities and thugs trying to hide their possession of weapons. Tint is also used by young people who just want to be cool or sharp.

A 64-year-old Adams County man failed to show up for jury duty several times. Deputies arrested him and put him in jail pending bond. Conviction can include a fine of up to $300 and up to 3 days in jail. So many people are skipping jury duty, Adams County circuit judges and the sheriff had promised they would arrest persons who skipped out on their citizen duty.

A Catahoula Parish grand jury has found no reason to charge Catahoula deputies for shooting and killing Tyler Nugent earlier this year. The jury entered a "no true bill" into the record. Nugent had shot and killed his mother before deputies arrived. Armed, he barricaded himself in the house and refused to surrender. Deputies tried to de-escalate the situation, but he continued to resist and threaten. When deputies entered the home, they shot Nugent.

Shane Daughtery, Ricky Gray

Adams County Chief Deputy Shane Daughtery explained to supervisors that his department brought in the MBI and the FBI to investigate the Deerfield Road attacks. The attacks resulted in the beating of a black bicyclist and the shooting and wounding of one white man. The attack started when a gang of young drunk white men verbally and physically attacked Reginald Butler while he was riding his bicycle. The deputy said the SO wanted to be open and transparent about its investigation. He said the local investigation has finished up, but it is still an open case and he wasn’t sure whether additional charges would be filed or other persons would be charged by the MBI or FBI for a hate crime. Supervisor Ricky Gray responded that he was concerned that while several men involved were charged with aggravated assault and were now out on bail, that the black man and bicyclist Reginald Butler, who is also charged with assault, was still in jail because he could not post bond as of the supervisors’ meeting. Gray expressed his concern that the justice system had to be fair to all, and that all people had to be considered not guilty until proven otherwise. He thought the incarceration of Butler was unfair. The supervisor noted the case had become a big news item, shared on social media. “We can’t hide this. We’ve got to get this right,” Gray said. In the days following the county’s meeting, Butler was subsequently released on bond.

Natchez city sales tax collections are distributed from the state to local government. The higher the figure, the more active and prosperous is the local economy. The sales tax year runs from July 1 to June 30. So the 2025 sales tax year ended June 30, 2025. 2020 $5.0 million pandemic shutdown year, 2021 $5.4 million, 2022 $5.9 million, 2023 $5.9 million, 2024 $5.8 million, 2025 $5.8 million. The highest year was $5.909 million in 2023. The figures are not adjusted for inflation. That means higher prices for goods and services did not spur a rise in taxable retail sales.

Adams County supervisors would like to buy a $397,000 fire truck for their volunteers. Grant funds may be available that could lower the net purchase price to $79,000. And another $50,000 could be borrowed and paid back with a low interest loan. The 2000 gallon pumper would be stationed at Lake Montrose. Fire coordinator Daryl Smith reviewed the details with county leaders.

Judge Walt Brown

Adams County Judge and Youth Court Judge Walt Brown told Adams County supervisors that opioid settlement funds are being used to give drug offenders minimal treatment with the state. The state gets the drug users clean, with inpatient hospitalization, but does not offer them the therapy support to modify their thinking or change their long-term behavior patterns. As a result, many fall back into drug use again. Brown told supervisors the city had sold the county drug court an old unused car for $1. Now the drug court is using that car to transport drug court program offenders to and from court, since many lack transportation. Supervisors voted to pay the insurance on the vehicle and accepted the old car onto the county’s inventory rolls.

Services were held July 26 for Ada M. Wilson, 70, of Natchez, who died in a one car accident at the Morgantown Exxon in on 61 North on July 19. Ms. Wilson was a nurse at Jefferson County Hospital for many years. She was known for her excellent care and outgoing personality. Prayers for Ms. Ada and her family.

Natchez aldermen meet for a public hearing, July 29 at 6 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers. The city continues to go after property owners who don't take of their buildings and yards and leave the properties with unsightly debris and junk. Many of the properties are so dilapidated that demolition is appropriate. The process can include fines, clean-op and demolition, billed to the property owner. Approximately 60 properties are on the agenda for adjudication. The owners have received written notice of their need to clean up and fix their properties and have been given time to do so before the city acts.

Grants received

The Natchez School District has received a $192,000 state grant to support homeless students, with clothing, tutoring, mentoring, school supplies, including individualized instruction. Typically, school districts who receive these grants hire a coordinator to oversee the program. The district is also getting a $290,000 grant for Pre-K education at Suzie B. West Elementary.

On July 23, the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team executed the arrest of Terrance Jerome Boatner Jr., 19, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The arrest came after the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation obtained a warrant through the 19th Judicial District Court in East Baton Rouge Parish, charging Boatner with 100 counts of pornography involving juveniles, a felony offense under Louisiana law. The warrant stems from allegations involving activity that occurred on or around February 7, 2025. Boatner was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held pending further legal proceedings.

Clayton Police Chief Bobby Madison Sr. has been elected president of the Louisiana Association of Chiefs of Police.

Edna Jones

Edna C. Jones shot her baby daddy in the house they shared in Jefferson County in 2020, critically wounding him. She was charged with aggravated domestic assault. Now she faces charges of accessory after the fact of murder in Copiah County. She is 34. Adams On July 23, Adams County deputies coordinated with the Copiah County Sheriff’s Office, successfully apprehended Edna Cordelia Jones, of Roxie, Mississippi, pursuant to a felony warrant issued by the Copiah County Circuit Court. Jones was wanted for accessory after the fact to murder, in connection to an ongoing homicide investigation led by the Copiah County Sheriff’s Office. The arrest was made without incident, and Jones was taken into custody following the issuance of an Instanter Capias commanding her appearance before the Circuit Court of Copiah County. She was located based on investigative leads and brought in for processing by ACSO. Jones is currently awaiting transfer to Copiah County.

Adams County deputies recently put a 64-year-old man in jail for skipping jury duty. Orange jumpsuit and all. If you receive a summons for jury duty, you must show up for court, or file in writing in advance your request for an excuse. Judges have been very upset that people aren’t showing for jury duty. And both the judges and the sheriff have promised to arrest people who do not show up.

The jobs picture is slightly better than last year. Adams County has 9,930 people with jobs, up 210 jobs from a year ago. Unemployment is at 5.9 percent. For January-June, the job figures have relatively stable, with around 10,000 jobs reported. The outlying counties also reported the number of jobs now as compared to last year: Franklin County 2760 +40, Jefferson County 2120 +20, Wilkinson County 2800 -80.

Tax issues and developments

Tim Byrd, business manager for the Natchez School District, said the school board has modified its request to supervisors for money and will revise the school budget for the coming year to keep its request exactly the same as the last year, $14.4 million. This eliminates the possibility that school spending would contribute to a tax increase for 2025-2026.

Miss-Lou Magazine has asked Adams County Tax Assessor Larry Hughes how much the assessment for the entire county has increased and how much more tax money will go the city and county, if the millage remains the same, knowing the schools will get $14.4 million.

Adams County Administrator Mitzi Conn said she attended the school board meeting on July 22 and was glad to hear that the school district will not need more money from supervisors. She expects to receive official notification soon from the school board regarding the change of direction. It’s still too early to say how the supervisors and county budget is shaping up for the new fiscal year that starts October 1. Conn is reviewing budget requests from department heads this month and in August. Then she and supervisors will review those requests and finalize the budget by September 15. Supervisor and Board president Kevin Wilson said he is adamantly opposed to tax increases. And he will vote against them. However, he and Supervisors have no control over reassessment. So hundreds, perhaps several thousand, Adams County residents and businesses will receive tax increases this year due to reassessment. The process of reassessment is likely to occur over the next two years to cover the all city and county properties.

Searching river

Vidalia Police Chief Joey Merrill said a passing motorist saw a man jump off the Miss Lou bridges earlier this morning. The woman driver called the police immediately to report the jump. Rescue teams got into the river looking for the person. No person has been found. No person has been reported missing so far. Sheriff's deputies, police and wildlife and fisheries agents have been active in the search.

Circuit Judge Carmen Drake has some important trials coming up in Wilkinson County in August. Tyrell Vessell will stand in trial for murder and possession of a stolen firearm. Derrion Stine faces a charge of possession of a stolen firearm. And Alvin Jackson Jr. ges to trial for murder and three counts of aggravated assault. Assistant District Attorneys Lisa Dale and Larry Baker will prosecute the cases. Those accused are considered not guilty unless convicted by a court of law.

Woodville Police Chief Lemuel Rutledge reported that he had 13 applications for the opening of police officer. Upon his recommendation, the aldermen voted unanimously to hire Clifton Walker as a certified police officer and Ernesco Lollis as a radio dispatcher. Lollis will undergo training to become certified.

Scammers!

Chicago area scammers are sending out fraudulent text messages to Franklin County Bank customers. Do not click on the link. Do not contact the scammers.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the appointment of Captain Ruston Cavin as the new Special Response Team Commander. Captain Cavin brings years of dedicated service to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, having demonstrated exceptional leadership, tactical expertise, and a commitment to protecting our community. His extensive experience and outstanding track record within the department make him the ideal choice to lead the Special Response Team. As SRT Commander, Captain Cavin will oversee the department's elite tactical unit, responsible for responding to high-risk situations and ensuring the safety of our citizens and law enforcement personnel alike. His leadership will play a crucial role in further enhancing the effectiveness and preparedness of the team as we continue to uphold the safety and security of Adams County.

Natchez aldermen voted to spend $9400 to fix the driveway at Fire Station #3. The aldermen said they were unaware of the condition of the driveway until people shared a photo of the driveway on FB. The mayor said, “People like to use social media as a weapon. It’s a shame.” Mayor Dan Gibson said the abandoned Watkins St. Cemetery is being maintained by the city, in accordance with state law. The city has been spending more than $14,000 a year to cut the grass and trim the crêpe myrtle trees, using contractors. Gibson said some drainage work needs to be done and some monuments fixed. The gravestones were broken by storms. The cemetery is considered very historic, especially since victims of the Rhythm Club fire are buried there. The mayor is hopeful that additional maintenance and repairs can be done in the near future, so that the site can be promoted as an important Natchez historical site and that visitors will tour the cemetery.

Hospital biils texted

Merit Health admission forms, once signed by you, allow the hospital to send your bill to you automatically by text instead of by a traditional bill mailed to you at your house. There may be an opt out. A patient may contact the business office directly to get a mailed bill to his home. It’s very common for bills from any hospital to have charges on the bill for procedures and medications the patient did not actually receive. It’s good to check over a hard copy of an itemized bill. If the insurance provider, Medicare, or Medicaid does not pay the entire bill, the patient will owe a balance. And he should want to make sure that balance is correct. Merit patients are being turned over to collection for unpaid bills received by text. Trinity Medical does not bill by text. But their contract emergency room physicians and anesthesiologists have been known to do so. The business office at Trinity said that the ER physicians may have stopped billing by text. A patient can always request a hard copy of your bill. An unpaid bill sent by text is considered the same as a bill mailed to your house for collection purposes under the law.

Natchez aldermen usually talk about city government issues. But Alderwoman Felicia Irving gave a short speech at the city meeting that, “like 50 and 100 years ago, our votes (are) being suppressed.” She did not reveal any local situations where people are not allowed to vote or their votes are suppressed. If you know of anyone who has been denied the right to vote, who is a registered voter or has been denied the right to register, please call Miss-Lou Magazine at 601-431-2990. We would like to look into it. If you go to vote in Natchez and Adams County and the officials don’t have your name on the list of registered voters, ask for an affidavit ballot. This is a special ballot that the election commission will look at when they’re counting votes. The election commission will determine whether there’s been a mistake or not. If you’re entitled to vote, they will count your affidavit ballot and register all your choices. Sometimes voters show up at the wrong precinct, getting the city and county precincts confused. If you’re unsure as to where you should vote, call the election commission or the circuit clerk's office and they will help you.

Mayor Dan Gibson reported it would take more than $100,000 to fix the city fountain downtown near the Grand Hotel. He said the fountain was originally donated by the Rotary Club more than 50 years ago. The mayor says the city could turn the old broken fountain into a big planter and install a new smaller fountain in the center of it for much less cost. Alderman are considering the mayor’s idea.

Stanley Searcy Jr.

Adams Sheriff Travis Patten and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office congratulated Chief Deputy Stanley Searcy Jr. for his dedication to professional development and excellence in law enforcement. Chief Deputy Searcy has recently completed the following prestigious programs: 1. FBI Mississippi Law Enforcement Command College (July 13-18, 2025) – A rigorous 40-hour leadership training sponsored by the Mississippi Association of Chiefs of Police (MACP) and the FBI Jackson Division. 2. 200-Hour Canine Handler Certification from Thorn K-9 Training Academy (completed July 10, 2025) alongside K-9 Dubai. 3. Patrol Service Dog Certification with specialized training in narcotics detection (Methamphetamine, Marijuana, Heroin, Cocaine, and MDMA). “Chief Deputy Searcy’s commitment to advancing his skills reflects his unwavering service to our community,” said Sheriff Patten. “These accomplishments not only enhance his capabilities but also strengthen the safety and effectiveness of our agency. We commend him and K-9 Dubai for their hard work and dedication.”

Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft said the Elm and Concordia sinkhole could have an underground stream and the culverts then collapsed, causing the hole. The contractor starts tomorrow by pumping out the water. Craft says his town crews also have expertise in this type of work. The contractor, Doss Construction, and crews may need to work on the right of way. which extends 25 feet on each side of the street. The mayor said he'd like to finish the job before school starts, but that will be dependent on weather, the contractor, seepage and identification of any underground stream. There could be some settling after the first work is done, which would require additional attention. Sinkhole repair is a top priority, he emphasized. He also mentioned that construction on Polk Park playground has started.

Mississippi is changing its taxation. As of this month, the sales tax on groceries has been reduced from 7% to 5% percent. Pet foods, alcoholic beverages, hot prepared meals and vitamins are still taxed at 7%.The sales tax on machinery and farm equipment remains at 1.5%.Overall, the general sales tax rate remains 7%. Some towns have an extra one percent added for an 8% total tax rate. Some communities like Natchez charge 8 1/2% on restaurant meals 8-10% or more on hotel rooms. Natchez has the highest hotel tax in the state charging 10% plus $2 per room per day.The gas tax has increased three cents a gallon as of July 1. It will again increase three cents a gallon in 2026 and another three cents a gallon in 2027. These monies will be used to repair roads and bridges.The top individual income tax rate had been 5% in Mississippi for many years. It was reduced to 4.7% in 2024 and is now 4.4% in 2025. The state plans to eliminate income tax entirely by 2030.

Zanra McDonald, Larry Hughes, Kevin Wilson

Superintendent of Schools Zandra McDonald and her school board team at the Natchez Adams School District want another $400,000 from the supervisors this year to fund local education. Supervisors have several options. First, they can pass a tax increase to fund the extra $400,000. Second, they can also absorb the $400,000 into the county budget and cut some other spending to avoid the tax increase. There’s also a third possibility. The Adams County Tax Assessor Larry Hughes has been busy reassessing properties. That reassessment automatically brings extra revenue to the county, city and schools. There may be enough extra funds coming in from the reassessment to avoid a tax increase altogether. Hughes will present a completed tax roll to supervisors on Aug. 4. At that time, he and supervisors should know just how much money is coming in from assessments and reassessments. Adams County Supervisor and Board President Kevin Wilson said replied that taxpayers can’t afford any tax increase. He does not support any tax increases.He added the schools are wasting an inordinate amount of money by keeping open the schools that are not occupied. The district is also leasing the vacant schools at way below the market rates, which increases negative cash flow. Wilson said he’s not satisfied with the oversight and management of the finances of the schools, indicating that taxpayers are abused. He supports the philosophy that a ‘quality education should include proper management of facilities and finances.’

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said the city has made a big effort to improve its parks. "The city has recently completed a multi-million renovation of all Natchez parks. We have added new playgrounds and facilities for tennis, pickleball, and disc golf, he said. "Our ballfields have been restored, park bathrooms have been renovated, new lighting has been added, and we have brought new life to the Natchez Youth Center at North Natchez Park. Soon, we will cut the ribbon on our newly renovated historic golf clubhouse at the city’s 18-hole Duncan Park Golf Course."

Natchez salaries for officeholders are: Mayor $94,500, City Clerk $90,000, Alderman $23,800.

Water rate increase

Most residents and businesses in Vidalia will see a slight increase in their water bills this year. The state requires town-owned utilities to break even or show a surplus to keep operations solvent. Because Vidalia has done so, it received more than $9 million from the state to rebuild its water plant. Now the average household will spend around $30 a month for water in the coming year, with the small rate hike. The state recently evaluated the water plant to see how Vidalia is doing. On a potential score of 105, the Vidalia water plant scored 103. One of the aldermen joked, “we’ll have to do better next year!”

Miss-Lou Magazine has been reviewing and writing about some of the governmental audits in the area, including why some local governments are so behind in filing their audits. We asked Mayor Connie Adair in Ridgecrest about their situation. Adair was elected in November 2024. Prior to her election, the village should’ve completed its 2023 audit and started working on its 2024 audit. It turns out the previous administration had done neither. Adair said she is working with Silas Simmons CPAs to prepare the 2023 audit now and that it should be completed soon. Once the audit is submitted to the state legislative auditor, it is reviewed and put on that state agency's website. The mayor said once the 2023 audit is completed, she and the clerk will start on the 2024 audit immediately. Adair said she’s very anxious to get both done. Without both on file, Ridgecrest cannot apply for and receive state grant funds.

Vidalia aldermen voted to give town employees a 2.5% pay raise as a cost-of-living increase.

New awnings

Colorful new awnings are appearing along Main, Franklin, Commerce, and Canal Streets this summer as the Downtown Natchez Alliance (DNA) rolls out the first visible phase of its Balcony, Awning, and Façade Incentive Grant Program. Made possible by the Downtown Natchez Alliance, the projects are funded by a $161,400 award of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars to DNA by the Mississippi Main Street Association through the Mississippi Legislature, in combination with private investment dollars from the individual property owners. Ultimately, the program will deliver more than $300,000 in balcony, awning, and facade improvements to the Historic Downtown Natchez District. The newest wave of awning installations is already brightening the district: a refined black canopy now crowns Wyatt Waters Gallery (101 N Commerce St.); a bold royal blue awning frames Soirée Boutique (505 Main St.); a fresh green cover shades Pig Out Inn Barbeque (116 S Canal St.); five matching black entry awnings accent Paul Green Real Estate’s downtown branch (419 Main St.); and an eye catching white and black striped canopy at Consign & Design (121 N Commerce St.).

The Natchez Film Office supports film projects in the city of Natchez, provides production resources, and serves as a liaison for production needs, including permits, city services, scouting, and logistical support. The Film Office can also provide information to the local film industry and Natchez residents upon request. With scenery and sites ranging from historic architectural masterpieces and gorgeous panoramas of the Mississippi River to more contemporary settings, Natchez is built to tell stories and provide both resources and community support with genuine Southern Hospitality. Natchez has served as a filming site for numerous productions and is ready to work with filmmakers. Please contact Lynsey Gilbert, at lynsey@visitnatchez.org to assist with film requests.

The Concordia Parish Library received a $1000 grant from Entergy to purchase children’s books for its summer reading program.

Meritorius service

Concordia Sheriff David Hedrick recognized Deputy Billy Ray Farmer, Deputy Maggie Dungan, Dispatch Supervisor Tassika Washington, Dispatcher Tionna Ellis, Deputy Drakel Carter, and Captain Chad Fuqua for their exceptional service and dedication beyond the call of duty during a recent emergency response call. Hedrick said, "A group of our deputies came face-to-face with one of the most difficult situations imaginable, the effort to save a life under extreme duress. These deputies acted without hesitation. They worked together as a unified team, doing everything in their power to save that life. Eventually, after all was lost, they refused to quit. Their dedication, urgency and compassion in that moment is a reflection of the kind of heart I expect from every member of the department. These men and woman showed exactly how I want our deputies to serve the people of Concordia Parish and the Miss-Lou area, with care, courage and unshakable commitment to the community. I could not be more proud of them."

Natchez residents report improved garbage collection service since Meridian Waste has placed newer trucks on the road to collect city residents’ garbage. The old trucks had tendency to leak and leave smelly water on the streets.The city has a separate garbage contractor from that used by Adams County.

The Wilkinson County School District was cited by the state for its school audit, which revealed 15 major negative findings and more than 70 deficiencies in bookkeeping, accounting, policies, procedures and spending, including violations of state laws. The Office of the State Auditor has completed its limited internal control and compliance review of the school district for the year ended June 30, 2023. State Auditor Shad White said, "We identified certain major deficiencies in internal control that we consider to be significant deficiencies in internal control. We also identified other deficiencies. While performing our review, we noted certain instances of noncompliance with state law that require the attention of management." White issued his letter with 20 pages of documentation of the problems on Nov. 14, 2024.

Manslaughter in Centreville

Centreville police said Jontavian Sanders, 21, was shot in a pickup and taken to Field Health, where he died. Police recovered security camera video and interviewed three suspects. They arrested Carlos Jackson Jr., 21, of Centrevile, along with two other juvenile suspects, for their roles in the death of Sanders. Jackson was charged with accessory after the fact to manslaughter and tampering with physical evidence. A 16-year-old was charged with manslaughter and tampering with physical evidence after the fact to manslaughter. A 15 year-old was charged with tampering with physical evidence and accessory after the fact to manslaughter. Jackson posted bond and was released. But since he was already out on bond on charges from Clinton, La., he was put back in jail. His Louisiana charges include felon in possession of a firearm and possession of two weapons which had been illegally converted to fully automatic.

Each year, the Adams County Tax Assessor presents an official listing of all the properties in Adams County to the Board of Supervisors to approve assessments. The county uses assessment and millage to determine your property tax bill. Since so many properties are reporting increases of 25 to 50% or more In their assessment, it would be wise to check the value assigned to your home or business. You can call the tax assessor and a deputy clerk will review your assessment with you and whether it’s changed from last year. Call 601-442-6732 for info. You can also visit the office and get a copy of your tax assessment form that shows how the assessment was figured. Supervisors hold a public hearing on August 4 and at that time they will accept the assessor’s roll. That means you must make any protest to your taxes on or before August 4.

The Wilkinson County school budget included $12 million in revenues this past year, of which $2.6 million was obtained from local property taxes. In the coming year, the district forecasts revenue of $15 million, of which $2.6 million will come from local property taxes. The school district has not released figures on actual expenses as yet. Whether or not there will be a property tax increase will be dependent upon how much the school actually spends and also the Wilkinson County supervisors budget.

Storms coming?

Heavy rains and possible flash floods close to the coast are likely Thursday from a tropical depression. The storm could cause heavy thunderstorms and flash flooding Thursday aftnoon and night in the Natchez area. The Natchez area is under a flash food watch.

Natchez police say they found fresh spattered blood near the Natchez Grand Hotel but no victim and no shooters Tuesday night. Bullet casings from several different weapons were recovered. If you have info, call Natchez police at 601-445-5565.

Scholarship auction

The Village of Harrisonburg Service League Auction will be held Monday, July 21, 5:00-9:30 p.m. at the Harrisonburg Elementary School Auditorium at 505 Bushley Street. This auction benefits the work of the Village of Harrisonburg Service League. Its annual Scholarship Program which awards two $1,000 scholarships to graduates of Harrisonburg High School, hosting the Harrisonburg Heritage Festival and supporting many other events and efforts in and around Harrisonburg.

Frank Lucas, 60, of Natchez, has been arrested for aggravated domestic assault by Adams County deputies. He is currently in jail. He plead guilty to assault in 2018.

For the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, the State of Mississippi reports Natchez city sales tax collections were $5.66 million compared to $5.76 million last year, a decline of $100,000. Sales tax collections are a measure of retail activity in the community. The state shares a portion of the sales tax collections with city and town governments every year.Statewide, sales tax collections increased by only a half of one percent.

Jimmie Maier Jr.

On May 21, the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office received a report about criminal sexual conduct involving a juvenile victim. The case was turned over to Detectives with the Concordia Sheriff’s Office Cyber/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 Louisiana Probation and Parole, took Maier into custody without incident. He was booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Center 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. Maier is currently being held on a $500,000 bond at the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility. This is an ongoing investigation, as Detectives have identified several additional victims, and further charges are expected. The crimes in this case go back more than three decades. Anyone with information regarding this case or anyone who has been a victim of Maier is encouraged to reach out to Detective Baker with the Concordia Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit at 318-473-0740 ext. 409.

Adams County Sheriff Travis Patten has been blocking locals from his Facebook page and the Adams County' Sheriff's Facebook page. That action appears to be illegal, as he is a government official and he cannot censor or block comments, when both pages are used for government public information purposes. The Supreme Court ruled in 2024, in Lindke v. Freed, that a public official's social media activity constitutes "state action," and thus implicates the First Amendment. The sheriff's action is a violation of free speech rights. Miss-Lou Magazine has asked the Sheriff to comply with the high court's decision and stop blocking and ublock people who wish to view his pages or comment.

The Natchez-Adams School District announced Tony Fields has successfully completion of the Mississippi School Boards Association’s Prospective Superintendent Leadership Academy. The program equips future superintendents with the knowledge, skills, and preparation to lead Mississippi’s public schools with excellence. Mr. Fields was one of only 31 educational leaders selected from across Mississippi School Districts to participate in this rigorous and highly selective academy. Fields is the district's public relations director and a former Natchez alderman.

Senior assaulted

A gang of young and drunk adults attacked a senior citizen in Concordia Parish, injuring him, and requiring his hospital treatment at Trinity Medical. Concordia deputies arrested the assailants. Those arrested included Jayden Carnegie, 22, Mia Drane, 17, Christian Keith, 25, and Brantley Evans, 20. All were charged with second-degree battery. Drane and Evans have bonded out. Keith and Carnegie remain in jail. If convicted, the felons can receive up to eight years in jail and a fine of up to $2000.

Adam‘s deputies arrested Avery C. Hill, 24, of Natchez, for felony domestic violence. Bond was set at $50,000. He remains in jail.

Cedric L. Minor of Wilkinson County was charged with possession of a stolen firearm. He was also charged with possession of a firearm by convicted felon. He plead guilty in front of Judge Carmen Drake. As part of a plea bargain, the first charge was dropped, and he was sentenced to 10 years for the second charge. Five years to serve in MDOC. Five years was suspended and five years is to be served under formal reporting supervision. He was assigned court costs and a prosecution fee.

Doug Duffey

Doug Duffey will perform live in concert at his La. Hall of Fame Induction at the Arcade Theater in Ferriday on July 25, 7-10 p.m. On July 25 7-10 p.m. Louisiana Music Legend Doug Duffey and his full band will be headlining a concert at the theater, as he is inducted into the Delta Music Museum Hall of Fame. Louisiana Secretary of State Nancy Landry will be there, providing introduction ceremonies. Duffey, a Monroe native, has worked with artists such as Funkadelic, Bootsy Collins, George Clinton, and others. He’s one of the most prolific songwriters living in Louisiana, and he’s recorded eleven albums. Tickets are only $25, available at https://deltamusicmuseum.com Doors at 6 p.m.

A party and drinking led to arguments and shootings near Deerfield Road in Adams County on Friday night. One man was seriously wounded with a stomach wound and a chest wound and had to be airlifted for treatment. Adams County deputies responded to witness calls. Cameron Taunton, 21, of Vidalia, was charged with assault causing bodily injur, with Judge Danny Barber set bond at $350,000. Reginald Butler, 33, of Natchez, was charged with aggravated assault. Houston Pretty, 18, of Vidalia, has been also charged in the Deerfield Rd. attacks. He was arrested for aggravated assault and conspiracy to commit assault by Adams deputies and Barber set bond at $350,000. Taunton was arrested by Concordia deputies last October for aggravated assault, second-degree battery and trespassing.

Parents of kids in Grades 5-12 in Natchez public schools may have only clear backpacks on campus this fall.

School lunches

Parents of students in the Franklin County School District are being urged to fill out applications for free and reduced meals. Parents must fill out a new online application every school year, even if their children qualified for the program last school year. Applications are being handled online. To access the application, visit: https://wwwschoolapps.com/.../DistrictRed.../FRANKLINC_MS... If you need assistance or have questions, contact Melinda Arnold at 601-384-5196.

Andrew Peabody, 97, of Natchez has died. He was the founder of SCAT, an airline flying out of the Natchez airport. SCAT served a number of cities in the South and was later sold to Air Illinois. He was an advocate for airline and economic development in Natchez-Adams County for more than 40 years and owned and operated Creative Travel. And he was active in the oil and gas business as well as raising cattle. Andy graduated from Washington and Lee University and was a US Navy veteran. Prayers for Andy and his family.

The City of Natchez and Natchez Workforce Development announce the launch of The Miss-Lou Train to Gain Program, a workforce development initiative awarded $300,000 in grant funding from the Delta Regional Authority. Natchez’s application was selected as one of the 25 awardees of over 120 applicants. The grant, which runs through April2027, is part of a strategic effort to uplift and empower underserved communities across Southwest Mississippi and neighboring Louisiana parishes. The program is designed to train 100 dislocated workers, including formerly incarcerated individuals and veterans, and aims to place at least 75 participants in high-skill, high-wage jobs that offer career advancement, stackable credentials, and industry-recognized certifications. The initiative will serve six persistent-poverty counties, including Adams, Claiborne, Franklin, Jefferson, Pike, and Wilkinson, as well as Catahoula and Concordia parishes.

Brandon Harbor

Brandon P. Harbor, 34, of Jonesville, was found by Adams County deputies at a local residence. He fled out a window, but a K9 ran him down, and he was captured. He was wanted by Catahoula authorities for attempted second degree murder, aggravated battery with a weapon and criminal damage to property. He was extradited back to Louisiana and is in the Catahoula jail. Harbor lived in the Alexandria area as well as Jonesville and launched a crime wave in Alexandria in 2021-2022, where he was arrested for parole violation, possession of a weapon by convicted felon, resisting an officer, felony possession of drugs and battery of a pregnant woman. He was placed in jail twice, but released.

A Natchez resident and former Centreville officer, Patrick Harris, has been arrested by agents of the Mississippi state auditor's office for stealing pistols from the evidence room of the police department and pawning them to a pawn shop for cash. He also pawned his service pistol. Harriss has been charged with embezzlement.

Judge Carmen Drake held court in Wilkinson County. Latedry Earls plead guilty to manslaughter and evidence tampering in the shooting death of Telvin Matthews in 2024. He was sentenced to 20 years for the manslaughter. He received 10 years for tampering with the evidence, with five years suspended and five years supervised probation. The sentences will be served concurrently, so he will serve 20 years. Earls will also pay court costs and a prosecution fee plus a fine of $3000. A Wilkinson County jury unanimously found Jaccory Carr guilty of aggravated assault for shooting at Police Chief Lemuel Rutledge in 2022. Judge Drake sentenced him to 30 years. Because Carr has been very combative in the Wilkinson County Jail, the judge had MDOC pick him up immediately. Carr has more legal troubles ahead. He faces a murder trial for a shooting death in Centerville and other charges, including assault and destruction of public property. (Woodville Republican)

Shopping event

Downtown Natchez will celebrate Christmas in July Saturday, July 12, with open houses, free refreshments and sales.

Leah Hunter has asked Natchez aldermen to increase their subsidy of the Natchez Downtown Alliance from $55,000 a year to $70,000 a year. The city is considering her request. As director of NDA, she has been more successful than her predecessors in increasing grants, events and publicity for downtown.

Former Woodville police officer Roderick Hart has been indicted for grand larceny for allegedly stealing $1200 in cash that was paid as a fine. The money was placed in a traffic ticket envelope in a locked desk of the deputy town clerk. Hart denies the allegation and has filed a motion to dismiss the indictment saying the indictment itself is not proper. Hart’s attorney said the money apparently disappeared from a locked drawer in a desk between April 1 and April 4, 2024, but that the police officer did not steal it.

Festival scheduled

The Natchez Food & Wine Festival returns July 25-27, attracting top chefs and restaurateurs from throughout the Gulf South. Each summer, they gather in Natchez to stage multiple-course dinners in historic mansions, progressive dining events, gourmet tastings, and casual social occasions that make the most of the city’s spectacular riverside setting. For info, events and tickets go to natchezfoodandwine.com.

Louisiana released its LEAP scores for Concordia schools. The percentage of students showing "mastery" of the basic subjects: Monterey 49%, Vidalia Upper 38%, Vidalia Junior High 29%, Vidalia High 19%, Ferriday Upper 16%, Ferriday Junior High 13%, Ferriday High 9%. Louisiana tests its students for their math, English, science and social studies skills. Mastery is defined as proficient, demonstrating good skills in the subject and/or ready for the next grade level or course. Mastery and advanced are the top two skill levels. They are considered what is necessary for success in the subject matter. Basic means students need additional work and more skill development. Scores are designated as unsatisfactory, approaching basic, basic, mastery or advanced.

In the 2025 LEAP assessment cycle, Catahoula Parish schools maintained their performance level from the previous year, with 24% of students in grades 3 through 12 achieving scores at the Mastery or Advanced level.

Grant for downtown

The Downtown Ferriday District has received a $250,000 federal grant for strategic planning. The grant will be used to develop a plan to improve roads, bridges, sidewalks and improve signage, lighting, and town owned facades.

Adams County deputies have arrested Roy Glenn, 44, of Natchez for taking away a motor vehicle, a felony. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in jail and a $10,000 fine. He remains in jail. He was arrested in April for aggravated battery, domestic abuse in criminal damage to property. In September 20 24, he was arrested for. simple assault, domestic battery. In 2012 he played guilty to domestic violence and assault and was given two days in jail with 28 days suspended.

Copper wire vandals have hit Highway 61 N. in Adams County again, stealing the wire for salvage and knocking out phone and Internet connections to dozens of residences and some businesses. AT&T said $20,000 of copper wire and Internet fiber cable were stolen. Adams County deputies are looking for the culprits.

Foreclosure

Vidalia Mills will go through formal foreclosure on Aug. 6. The mayor says there has been a number of companies that have expressed interest in purchasing the plant or locating there. Since the lenders will own the plant starting in August, they will sell it or lease it to someone. The cotton looms could also attract bidders or buyers separately from the property. Vidalia will not be involved directly in either the sale or lease, but will welcome any company who locates there. Craft said he wouldn’t be surprised if it took a year or two to actually land a new company, as the property is quite large. Vidalia will get to sell utilities: electricity, water, sewer, and gas to the new owner or lessee.

Ferriday police said an argument between two men led to a shootout, with both men being wounded. Police charged Albert Lee Jr., 19, and James Johnson Jr., 25, with attempted murder. Both suffered minor wounds and are recovering. Judge Kathy Johnson set bond at $150,000 each.

The Concordia Parish Sheriff's Office locate Todd Polk. Polk is a convicted sex offender whose last known address is 1225 Peach Street, Vidalia, LA. Polk is a 46-year-old white male with tattoos on both arms and chest. He may have a shaved head. Polk is wanted for failure to register/notify as a sex offender. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of this individual is urged to contact the Concordia Parish Sheriff's Office by calling 318-336-5231.

Jobs data

Concordia Parish has 5,962 workers with jobs, down 110 jobs from last year. The jobless rate is 6.3 percent.

Adams deputies arrested Jordan Butler 22, and Yasmine Lyles, 27, after they committed an armed carjacking. They also face the charge of assault by physical menace. The couple is currently being held in jail. Butler was arrested in 2024 for animal cruelty and bonded out.

Aziza Young, 35, of Jackson, surrendered to Adams County authorities. She was wanted by Jackson police for the shooting murder of her boyfriend, Adrione Triggs, 45, on July 4. She will be charged with homicide and auto theft and transported to Jackson. JPD said, “Based on our investigation, it was calculated,” police said in reference to a possible motive for the killing. “Based on witness accounts... she was not defending herself.” Authorities said there was an argument before the shooting took place. Police also said that, according to witness accounts, she attempted to “drag the body... move the body” after the shooting took place.

Natchez police are investigating a second shooting in three days. Damien Strickland was shot and killed at Holiday Apartments on July 4. On July 6, a man was shot and wounded multiple times on Minor Street. He was able to drive himself to Merit Health and then airlifted out of town for treatment. Police are looking for the shooters in both attacks.

Mississippi’s annual Sales Tax Holiday returns this summer, giving families and bargain-hunters a chance to stretch their back-to-school budgets. From Friday, July 11, through Sunday, July 13, qualifying purchases of clothing, footwear, and school supplies will be exempt from state sales tax, as long as the price of each individual item is under $100. What qualifies? Clothing: shirts, pants, jackets, uniforms, etc. Footwear: sneakers, dress shoes, boots, and similar items. School supplies: notebooks, crayons, backpacks, binders, and other classroom essentials. Remember: the exemption applies per item, not to the total bill. For example, you could buy three pairs of shoes at $99 each and pay no sales tax, but a single pair priced at $100.01 would be fully taxable. Tax savings aren’t limited to in-store shopping. Eligible items ordered by mail, telephone, or the internet also qualify, provided the order is placed and paid for during the holiday and each item’s price is below the $100 threshold.

As part of the Juneteenth commemoration, the Natchez Chapter of the NAACP held a panel discussion at the NAPAC Museum to remember the 100th birthday of Medgar Evers. Evers was a leading voice in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and early 1960s. He was assassinated at his home in Jackson in 1963 by Byron De La Beckwith, a terrorist, member of the White Citizens Council and Klan associate. The killer was not convicted until 1994 and later died in prison. Evers worked across the state to help communities register blacks for to vote. Following his death, his brother, Charles, assumed the leadership mantle and carried on the work of his brother. Medgar’s wife, Myrlie, also played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement after her husband was killed. She is now 92. Medgar Evers was a US veteran and served in the Normandy campaign. He is buried in Arlington Cemetery. Dozens of people attended the panel discussion at NAPAC.

Richard Nelson

Richard Nelson has resigned his position as executive director of the Natchez Adams County Airport. Airport employee Larry Matthews will run the place for at least awhile, as supervisors hire a replacement. Nelson said Adams County supervisor harassment, interference, conflicts of interest and ethics violations within the commissioners led him to resign. Nelson said some commissioners, who were tenants at the airport, didn't know what they were doing and steered policy, administration and spending to benefit the commissioners personally. With Nelson gone, there is less chance of securing an airline carrier.

Adams County deputies are looking for Jolie Eadie, who failed to pay for services at a Natchez business. If you know of her whereabouts, call deputies ay 601-552-2752.

Natchez police report Damien Strickland, 31, of Natchez, was shot and killed on the steps of an apartment at Holiday Apartments on the evening of July 4. Police are investigating.

Eola Hotel

Consultant Hayes Dent says planning continues on the Eola Hotel project. He said Virginia attorney Robert Lubin continues, with others, to push the project along. The hotel will take advantage of EB-5 provisions in US law to secure foreign investors. Some of the money used will come from those investors, and some money will be borrowed. He did not want to say how much the project will cost in the end, but when $25 million was mentioned as a price tag, he said the hotel renovations and what’s already invested would be more than that. The project will also take advantage of historic tax credits and new market tax credits as part of its financing package. Dent added that Lubin and friends will probably announce the management team and the hotel’s national affiliation in July. Dent said there’s no firm timeline yet when construction will start, as there still raising money and determining the amount that needs to be borrowed. Additionally, they need to get a new and firm cost on construction from the contractor. While they have a general idea of how much they believe it will cost, they need to get a bid on the exact amount and enter into a formal contract to build the hotel at that set amount. The City of Natchez has promised to help the Eola succeed.It has notified tenants of the Fry Building that it’s time to vacate. The City plans to demolish the building and turn the Fry site into a parking lot for hotel visitors and the general public. At one time, the mayor and aldermen discussed actually investing in the hotel project directly. The city has the legal ability to allow Eola to use the hotel's sales taxes and property taxes generated to be used toward payment of debt (tax increment financing) like the City did for Country Inn and Suites/Natchez Grand Hotel.

The US Department of Justice is expected to sue the Concordia Parish School Board over the alleged failure of the local schools to desegregate. Concordia had initially agreed to a DOJ compromise that would move Vidalia students to Ferriday. But parents and citizens spoke out of the local public meeting and the school board voted to ditch the settlement agreement with the federal government. The State of Louisiana Attorney General’s Office continues to say it will help Concordia defend if and when DOJ takes action. The school board went into an executive session at a recent meeting to discuss its case, but school board members did not say anything publicly about what was discussed nor did they go on the record with the statement for the minutes.

Ferriday’s sewer system had broken down due to failing sewer pumps. Mayor Alvin Garrison was able to find a few replacement pumps in Ohio that would work with the mechanics of the current system. The pumps have been installed and the system is now operating once again. Ferriday has received a $19.5 million grant for a major sewer system overhaul. That project should be bid in August.

Bude fireworks

For the fourth year in a row, the Franklin County Baptist Association will host a Fourth of July Fireworks Show at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. The festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4 with ice cream being served from the Association office. The fireworks will begin about 9 p.m. Officials are asking for donations from businesses and individuals to help cover the cost of the fireworks. The goal is to raise $5,000 to cover the cost of the show. Anyone wishing to make a donation, or for more information, can contact Wes Arnold at 318-230- 0626.

Adams deputies arrested Corey Rice, 39, of Natchez, for aggravated assault. He is currently being held in jail. He has previous felony convictions for possession of cocaine and felon in possession of a weapon.

On June 30, at approximately 4:54 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 425 at Grayson Road. The crash claimed the life of 43-year-old Joshua Boies of Wisner. The initial investigation revealed that a 2022 Ford F-150 and a 2010 Toyota Corolla, driven by Boies, were northbound on Louisiana Highway 425. For reasons still under investigation, Boies failed to slow down and rear-ended the Ford F-150. As a result, the Corolla exited the roadway and overturned. This action ejected Boies from the vehicle. Boies, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead. The driver of the Ford F-150, who was restrained, sustained no injuries. A toxicology sample was obtained and submitted for analysis.

Ross brothers and Damper

Michael Ross Jr., 22, and Devin Ross, 21, were arrested in Vicksburg and charged with one murder and six attempted murders in the Fayette music festival shooting. Courtez Damper, 20, was previously arrested for the murder and shootings. Those agencies participating in the investigations and arrests include the US Marshal’s Service, the Mississippi Bureau of investigation, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department and Fayette Police Department. They accused murderers are expected to be tried in Jefferson County.

The Rev. Jimmy Swaggart, a native of Ferriday, has died at the age of 90. He was one of the nation's leading televangelists in the 1980's. Swaggart was a first cousin to entertainers Mickey Gilley and Jerry Lee Lewis.

For the fourth year in a row, the Franklin County Baptist Association will host a Fourth of July Fireworks Show at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. The festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4 with ice cream being served from the Association office. The fireworks will begin about 9 p.m. Officials are asking for donations from businesses and individuals to help cover the cost of the fireworks. The goal is to raise $5,000 to cover the cost of the show. Anyone wishing to make a donation, or for more information, can contact Wes Arnold at 318-230- 0626.

Slight dip in jobs

Adams County has 10,180 people with jobs, down 10 jobs from a year ago. The jobless rate is 5%.

Taurus Williams, 34, has been captured and arrested by Vidalia police and Concordia deputies on Hwy. 131 in the parish. He was wanted in Adams County for possession of and trafficking cocaine, marijuana, fentanyl and other drugs. He faces an enhancement charge for dealing near a church. Additionally, he is a felon, was in possession of a weapon and will face that additional felony charge. Also arrested in the case were two women now facing felony charges for assisting his escape, and trying to hide him from authorities. Those facing accessory after the fact charges include: Shawanda Lewis and LaKrystal Barnes. Lewis is being held in the Concordia Jail. Barnes has bonded out in Adams County. Taurus Williams is being held in Concordia.

Adam’s deputies arrested Quiero Johnson, 36, of Natchez, for shooting into a vehicle. He is currently being held in jail. Deputies arrested Raymond Bennett, 44, of Natchez, for failure to register as a sex offender. He was convicted of child fondling in 2012 and is currently being held in jail.

Kristony Carter

Little Miss Alcorn State University Kristony Carter raised more than $2000 for the Morgantown Elementary Beta Club. She and her family will travel to Orlando, as she competes in the National Beta Club Convention.

Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft said work on the big sinkhole at Concordia and Elm has been delayed because of the high water table. The river is still at 47 feet and the mayor estimates the river should fall to around 40 feet before work can restart.

House Bill 1 requires a nine-cent gas tax increase over the next three years in Mississippi takes effect July 1. The nine-cent increase will not take place at all once. Instead, it will be phased in over the next three years. On July 1, the tax will increase from 18 cents per gallon to 21 cents per gallon. On July 1, 2026, the tax will increase to 24 cents per gallon, then to 27 cents per gallon on July 1, 2027. After July 1, 2029, the gas tax rate will be adjusted for inflation, rounded to the near whole cent with a maximum of one cent per gallon annually. Lawmakers and transportation officials have said the state needs more money in order to maintain and build roads and bridges across Mississippi, citing the continuing the increased costs for material and labor.

The Lincoln Outfit

Live at Five will feature The Lincoln Outfit at the gazebo on the Natchez Bluff July 4 at 5 p.m.. Miss-Lou fireworks on the river begin at 9:30 p.m.

On June 25 at approximately 4:45 p.m., the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office assisted the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office in executing a felony arrest warrant for a wanted suspect believed to be hiding in Catahoula Parish. After coordinated surveillance at a local motel, members of the Catahoula Special Response Team, Concordia SRT, Jonesville SRT, Ferriday Police, Vidalia Police, Sandy Lake Fire & Rescue, and American Medical Response met on the location. The Catahoula SRT Bearcat was utilized to issue multiple verbal commands over a public address system, instructing the suspect to exit the room peacefully. After observing movement inside the room, the suspect opened the door and was quickly taken into custody by SRT members. The suspect, identified as Donnie Sanders, initially resisted arrest but was safely apprehended without injury. He was found in possession of a handgun, illegal drugs, and drug paraphernalia. Sanders was booked into the Catahoula Parish Jail on multiple charges, including Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Felon in Possession of a Firearm with CDS, Possession of Schedule I and II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest and Fugitive from Justice (Ferriday Police Department). Bond will be set by the 7th Judicial District Judge, and Sanders will be transported to Ferriday to face additional charges.

The Concordia Parish Police Jury is getting tough on homeowners and businesses that do not keep their properties tidy. The jury has sent out a series of letters to property owners telling them to clean up or else. The else is the jury will come in and clean the property and charge the property owner $400 at a minimum. And if the bill is not paid, the amount due is entered as a lien against the property.

Home values

Zillow reported for Natchez. A typical home value is $120,592. Typical value one year ago was $116,204. The service forecasts a value decrease of 7.3 percent over the next year. 290 homes are for sale and 15 sold recently.

The Silas Simmons CPA 2023 audit of the Concordia Parish Clerk of Court does show a rather large $586,000 deficit from previous years. This deficit was reduced in 2023 due to an operating surplus. However, the deficit should not be seen as mismanagement, as most of it reflects long-term liabilities for pensions and other retirement costs that will be due eventually and must be paid. For 2023 itself, the office improved its finances, with $742,000 in revenues and $696,000 in expenditures, showing a net operating surplus. The office has over $536,000 in operating cash, which is sufficient to pay its ongoing bills and act as a small reserve. The Concordia paper ran a rather alarming article, indicating there was a huge deficit which would lead people to believe there was mismanagement But it’s actually quite common for offices to have pension and other retirement liabilities that are quite large. Government has evolved over two generations to where parish employees have very attractive, retirement packages, much better than the private sector. As a result, local governments often have large pension liabilities that will be paid with future revenues. The CPA did note that the office has a small staff, and as a result, financial responsibilities are not separated or segregated as they should be. But that’s because there are so few employees. There were no negative findings as to operations, bookkeeping and accounting. The CPA noted that the office was close to budget in both forecasting its revenues and expenditures. And as a result, the budget did not need to be amended at anytime during the year. Andy Anders is the parish Clerk of Court.

Miss-Lou law enforcement shut down the bridges in Natchez-Vidalia in both east and west directions due to five loose barges that hit the northern bridge. Some of the barges continued to float downstream. The bridges were later reopened.

Taxes may increase

The Natchez-Adams school board holds a public hearing on Tuesday to adopt a $72.7 million school budget for the coming year. The school board is asking for more tax support from supervisors, approximately $432,000. Supervisors have the option of cutting other budget items to afford the tax increase or increasing mileage to pay for the extra money the schools want. Supervisors may have their own budget and expense increases to consider. It is possible that taxes could go up 3 to 4 mills. The new school budget starts October 1.

Woodville Police Chief Lemuel Rutledge told the mayor and aldermen the patrol officer most recently hired has quit, and he expects another officer to resign soon. Rutledge said retention of officers is difficult because of the low pay and poor benefits compared to what other towns offer. The Chief said his department needs eight patrolmen and six radio dispatchers to operate effectively. He noted that the streets are increasingly dangerous, as there have been recent officer involved shootings in Adams, Jefferson and Pike counties.

Three men were in the parking lot of the club, The One Way, in Centreville, when Eldred Anderson, 62, of Gloster, told Nicholas Henry and Lawarren Seiber, both of Centreville, to stop leaning on his pickup. An argument ensued. Pistols were pulled and multiple shots fired. Henry died at the scene. Seiber died at Field Health. Anderson was wounded, treated and released from Our Lady of the Lake. He was then arrested on two counts of murder and released on bond. If you witnessed the shooting or have any information about the killings, call police at 601-645-5917.

Building rehab

Natchez businessman Dick Thompson says he now owns the former furniture warehouse on Franklin St. in downtown Natchez. He isn’t quite sure what he will do with the building other than remodel it and bring it back to excellent condition. Thompson says the 12,500 square-foot building could be used for commercial, residential or mixed use applications. He expects to spend $2-$3 million on the project. In addition to owning Live Oak Nursery, he has invested in housing, office, commercial and other real estate investments over the years.

Some Mississippi towns and cities had elections this spring. Those taking office July 1 will include: Woodville: Mayor Jessie Stewart; Aldermen William Carter, Meagan Spillman, Francis Bailey, Louis D’Aquilla; Centreville: Mayor Demetria Allen Hudson; Aldermen Doc Walker, Amuad Stewart, Sonny Wilson, Michelle Singleton, Iyomia Maria Montgomery.

Judge Carmen Drake held court in Wilkinson County. Michael Carpenter played guilty to assault of a jailer. He was sentenced 5 years suspended with credit for time served. He will be on formal reporting post release supervision. He was ordered to pay $682.50 in court costs and prosecution fees. He is also to pay a fine of $1000 payable to the Wilkinson County Sheriff’s investigation fund. John Joseph Barr played guilty to two counts of grand larceny. He was sentenced to five years, with three years to serve and two years suspended to be served on formal post release supervision. Barr had a pending conviction in Franklin County. He will serve all his sentences concurrently. In addition, he was ordered to pay court costs and a prosecution fee of $682.50.

Tuition for Pre-K

Mississippi allows school districts offer six types of pre-K education based on the funding source. The Natchez district will start charging parents $250 per month per child for three and four year-old education beginning this fall. The district had offered totally free pre-K education, but the school board moved the program to fee-based when some state funding was cut.

Concordia deputies arrested Donald Walker, 48, of Ferriday, for felon in possession of a weapon and aggravated battery, domestic violence. He remains in the parish jail.

Silicon Ranch of Nashville, Tennessee, will build an 83-acre solar energy farm near Cane Creek Road and Highway 24, just west of Centreviile. The $4.75 million project will employ 100 workers during its construction phase. The farm will tie into Entergy. The company has been in business since 2011. Revenues are approaching $250 million annually. And it recently secured $500 million in investment capital for new projects.

Michel James Kelly threatens suit

Concordia District 1 Justice of the Peace Michael James Kelly faces a felony charge of malfeasance in office and theft of less than $1,000, a misdemeanor. Kelly collected money for Pay Less Loans in Jonesville but never paid the company all the money it was due. He was arrested in October by Concordia deputies. Kelly collected $2880 in judgments, but still lowed the company $1445 at the time of his arrest. His next court appearance is July 16. In 2017, he was a constable and was arrested for three counts of resisting an officer with force, criminal damage to property, simple battery and home invasion for entering a home and pushing a woman, while delivering an eviction notice. Ferriday Police Chief Richard Madison said at the time officers were called and Kelly allegedly fought them while resisting arrest. The charges were later dropped and Kelly sued Ferriday officials and town employees for damages in federal court. Editor's note: Miss-Lou Magazine asked Kelly if he would like to post additional info regarding his arrest or federal lawsuit. He has not responded. There are no false statements in this news. Arrested twice. Charges dropped first time. Hearing date coming up in July on the October 2024 arrest. Will report outcome if a resolution to the charge occurs. All those charged are considered not guilty unless they plead or are convicted. When public officials are arrested, this is news. And this particular news and the lawsuit have been previously reported by Justia, Sentinel, Democrat and Miss-Lou Magazine in 2017-2018 and 2024-2025.

The Louisiana Board of Ethics has officially closed its investigation into Sheriff Toney Edwards, clearing him of all alleged violations of the Louisiana Code of Governmental Ethics. Following a thorough review, the Board determined there was no evidence to support any of the claims made against Sheriff Edwards. Allegations included the misuse of inmate labor, unauthorized personal use of Sheriff’s Office property, and acceptance of a gift in exchange for a contract. After evaluating the findings of a confidential investigation report, the Board found these claims to be unsubstantiated. The Board confirmed that no storm shelter was ever constructed on Sheriff Edward’s property using prison labor, and personal loan documents showed that equipment allegedly misused was privately owned by Sheriff Edwards. Additionally, all Sheriff’s Office equipment was properly accounted for, and no evidence supported claims of improper gifting or influence.

On June 17, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of Highway 61 North in reference to a stolen motor vehicle. Patrol Deputies learned that, during the night of June 16 or the early morning hours of June 17, a vehicle had been stolen from a parking lot in Natchez, Mississippi. Deputies were informed that the suspects involved in the theft were seen in the area of Highway 61 North near Tractor Supply. Patrol Deputies responded to that location in an effort to locate and identify the suspects, who fled on foot upon seeing law enforcement. Deputies from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group responded to assist in the search. Within an hour, the suspects were apprehended. They were identified as 18-year-old Isaiah Davis of Lorman, Mississippi, and two juvenile Black males, also from Lorman. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division continued the investigation and obtained evidence linking all three suspects to the vehicle theft. Isaiah Davis was charged with Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony) and booked into the Adams County Jail. The two juveniles were also charged with Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony) and transported to the Adams County Juvenile Detention Facility.

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Nakia Stewart Anderson

Wilkinson County and Bridgers CPAs have been working on completing the county’s past due annual audits. The 2020 audit is finally complete and the audits for 2021, 2022 and 2023 should be completed by this fall. Chancery Clerk Nakia Stewart Anderson told supervisors the state auditor directed the county to improve its bookkeeping by correctly coding a number of accounts that were incorrectly labeled. This problem has gone on for years. Anderson said she would follow the state’s recommendations. She and her staff are working closely with the CPA and the state to improve the county’s bookkeeping and accounting.

Vidalia is repairing its sinkhole at Elm and Concordia. Mayor Buz Craft said the contractor had to temporarily stop work, because the water table is still too high.

After a slow start to the fiscal year, Natchez city sales tax collections have been picking up. The sales tax fiscal year runs July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. The Mississippi Bureau of Revenue shares sales tax collections with cities and towns. Natchez has received $5.2 million July 2024-May 2025, compared to $5.3 million the year before. The month of June will finish the fiscal year’s collections. Taxable retail sales are a measure of the strength of the local economy, representing the willingness of local consumers to spend money on taxable products and services. Natchez’s slight dip in collections is reflective of the mixed picture other cities in Mississippi have experienced this year. Brookhaven is up 3 percent. McComb is down 1 percent. Vicksburg is up 1 percent. Brandon is up less than 1 percent.

Robert Galmore Jr., Anthony Owens

Adams County deputies are looking for Robert Galmore, Jr, 22, Natchez, who has outstanding warrants for burglary of a dwelling and possession of a stolen firearm. He has a history of burglary and receiving stolen goods. If you know of his whereabouts, call deputies at 601-442-2752. Adams County deputies are also looking for Anthony D Owens, 60, of Natchez, for violation of sex offender registration laws. He was convicted of aggravated criminal sexual assault in Illinois and has lived in the Natchez area for a number of years. If you know his whereabouts, call deputies at 601-442-2752.

Adams County EMS Director Brad Bradford said he plans to go talk with Natchez aldermen to see if the city will help fund the repair of the emergency sirens that have not been working. Supervisors agreed to spend more than $50,000 to make those repairs, which will include a software upgrade.

Adams deputies arrested Wayne Hammett, 64 of Natchez, in March, for a felony aggravated domestic violence. He was released on bond of $15,000. Now he has been arrested again, this time for aggravated assault. Bond has been set at $100,000 and he remains in jail for now.

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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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News for Southwest Mississippi and East Central Louisiana, including Adams, Jefferson, Franklin and Wilkinson counties and Concordia and Catahoula parishes.

Offices:
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Peter Rinaldi, publisher
Clarisse Washington, editor emerita