Local News 

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

Jewish history marker

Years ago, Jerry Krouse donated the pecan factory site to the city. Now Natchez has decided to put a marker there to honor local Jewish history. Jewish families from America and Europe emigrated to the Natchez area in the 1800s, establishing a strong merchant class and building a synagogue. These families played a major role in the economic, political and social life of the community for more than 100 years, though only a few Jewish families still remain in town. Krouse, his family and Mayor Dan Gibson gather round the new marker.

Natchez aldermen will open bids Jan. 28 for the Merrio St. bank stabilization project.

Chief Richard Madison

Ferriday Police Chief Richard Madison was appointed in October. Now he has resigned the job to take a position with the Catahoula sheriff’s office. The town has not announced who will be the next chief.

U.S. Marshals arrested Zion Buck, 20, of Clayton, for first degree murder, home invasion and armed robbery. The 2023 Vidalia High grad entered the Scenic Highway apartment of a SU student, and with others, robbed, shot and killed Donovan Pugh, 21, of New Orleans on Dec. 3.

Dr. Andrea Washington, a 1996 graduate of Wilkinson County High School, will present the 37th annual Martin Luther King Day program at Pleasant Green Baptist Church in Woodville. The program will be held Sunday, January 18 at 2 PM. The public is invited. Dr. Washington is an optometrist who practices in Covington, Georgia.

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Jesse Smith

Catahoula deputies have arrested Jesse Smith, 40, currently listed as a resident of Vidalia, and charged him with felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile. He is being held in the parish jail.

Vidalia wants a historical marker to commemorate the Miss-Lou Memorial Day Parade, one of the longest-running Memorial Day traditions in the United States. The Vidalia Board of Aldermen approved $1,000 for the marker, which it hopes to acquire through the Louisiana Historical Marker Program. Mayor Buz Craft said the location will be determined later. “We want it to be placed in an area where it can get some traction. We will try to come up with the best possible location for it where people can see it,” he said. However, he added, he will support any location decided by the board. Once the Louisiana marker is officially approved, Vidalia will join Natchez in honoring the Memorial Day tradition. Natchez’s marker was approved earlier this year by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. Its installation, approved for 639 S. Canal St., is expected in 2026.

The number of jobs in nearby counties has not changed much from a year ago. Current number and the number added or lost (+/-) from a year ago: Jefferson County, 2180 (-10); Franklin County, 2740 (+30); Wilkinson County, 2360 (-10).

Left to right: Mississippi Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Officer Joshua Evans, Adams County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Curtis Bradley, Sergeant Deselle Davis, Chrystal Morgan, Lt. Jerome Timmons, Deputy Shawn Davis, Deputy Jessica Johnson

Adams deputies were dispatched on Dec. 21 to the intersection of Liberty Road and Garden City Road in reference to a lost motorist in need of assistance. The individual was later identified as Chrystal Morgan, who had become disoriented while making a delivery in the Garden City Road area. After losing cellular service and GPS functionality, Morgan inadvertently traveled deep into a wooded area well off the main roadway and was unable to determine her location. Despite limited communication, deputies maintained contact when possible and immediately initiated a coordinated search effort. Units methodically searched Garden City Road, Deerfield Road, and surrounding areas while working closely with dispatch to identify Ms. Morgan’s last known location. Once cellular service was briefly restored, Morgan was able to transmit GPS coordinates, which proved critical in narrowing the search area. Using those coordinates, deputies traveled into a remote, heavily wooded area beyond Levees Creek, navigating steep terrain, muddy ATV trails, and gated hunting property. Through continued communication, emergency lights, and sirens, deputies were ultimately able to locate Morgan’s vehicle deep in the woods. She was found to be physically unharmed. Deputies safely escorted Morgan and her vehicle back through the difficult terrain and onto the main roadway without incident. Her vehicle sustained only minor damage and remained operable. Morgan was then escorted safely back to the Natchez city limits. 

It is once again time to order chicks for the 2026 4-H Poultry Chain Project. This year, a $30 non-refundable deposit will be required to order chicks for the project. Policies and guidelines have been changed for the 2026 event.. Those policies include: You can order chicks in lots of 15 pullets with a $30 non-refundable deposit required for the Franklin County 4-H Poultry Chain Project. You provide pens, equipment, feed and care for the chicks. For each lot of 15 chicks you receive, three pullets are returned to the 4-H Poultry Chain Project Show and Sale. Money from the sale of these pullets goes to fund the Poultry Chain for the next year. You keep the remaining birds. You are responsible for the value of the chicks in case of loss or if you do not completely comply with the 4-H Poultry Chain Project guidelines. In most cases, the value of responsibility is approximately $65 per lot of 15. Deadline for ordering chicks is Jan. 9, 2026. Chicks should arrive in April 2026. Brown Egg Layer breeds available include Americana, Cinnamon Queen, Black Sex Link, Buff Orpington and Black Australop. White Egg Layer breeds available at White Leghorn. If you are interested in participating in this year's poultry chain, visit the Extension Office to place your order and pay your deposit for the chicks before 5 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2026.

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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Wanted: Joseph Coy Edwards

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating the following non-compliant registered sex offender. The suspect remains on the run and is believed to be working for a local tree-cutting service in the Natchez, Mississippi area. Name: Joseph Coy Edwards. Date of Birth: October 5, 1989, Height/Weight: 6’1”, approximately 236 lbs Hair/Eyes: Bald / Blue, Last Known Address: Natchez, MS. Status: Failure to register as a sex offender. A warrant has been issued for Mr. Edwards due to his failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements. His current whereabouts are unknown. If you have any information regarding the location of Joseph Coy Edwards, Do not attempt to make contact. Please contact law enforcement immediately: Adams County Sheriff’s Office: 601-442-2752. 

In March of this year, the CPSO Cyber Crime/Special Victims Unit began investigating allegations of indecent behavior involving a juvenile against James C. Lawrence. Last week, new information emerged during the investigation, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant for Lawrence. He was arrested at his residence on Friday, December 19, and booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility, where he is currently being held on a $125,000 bond. Additional charges are expected; however, no further details can be released at this time due to the ongoing investigation. Anyone with information regarding victims of James Lawrence is urged to contact the Cyber Crime/Special Victims Unit at 318-437-0740.  Arrested was James C. Lawrence, 57, of Monterey, charged with Indecent Behavior with Juveniles.   

Matt Taunton of Monterey has died at age 47, after a two-year battle with cancer. He was a Concordia Parish school board member, an EMT and a volunteer firefighter in Monterey. Friendly and outgoing, Taunton was dedicated to his community.

Jobs decline

Catahoula reports 3,158 people with jobs down from 3,286 employed last year at this time, a decline of 128 jobs. The unemployment rate is 5.6%.

The Judiciary Commission of Louisiana opened an investigation in September 2023 with a complaint filed against Judge John Reeves for accepting a cash gift of $100 as a thank you for signing a litigant’s documents. He took the $100 after signing, first refusing and then accepting the money. Reeves admitted he took the gift and the Commission found he violated five canons of ethical judicial behavior in doing so. Reeves was suspended from serving on the bench for 30 days with loss of pay. He remains a district judge for Concordia and Catahoula. The findings and decision of the Commission were issued Dec. 18. The Louisiana Supreme Court had the option of reviewing the commission’s findings, and revising the decision and penalty. But it chose not to amend the decision. 

Natchez’s CPA audit for 2024 was supposed to be submitted to the state auditor by the end of September of this year. The city has not submitted its audit. The city has had great difficulty completing its audits on time for the period of 2020 to 2024. Additionally, there were significant and major bookkeeping and accounting errors each year. And as a sign of the problems, three clerks were able to steal money from the city over a five-year period. City leaders blamed the accounting firm for some of the mishaps and late filings. So the mayor and aldermen changed CPAs.

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AG Liz Murrill, Sheriff David Hedrick, Sheriff Toney Edwards

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill and fellow law enforcement leaders, including Concordia Sheriff David Hedrick and Catahoula Sheriff Toney Edwards, met on December 18 at a press conference in Ruston. The Attorney General announced the results of Operation Access Denied, one of the largest coordinated enforcement efforts targeting noncompliant registered sex offenders in state history. From November 1 through December 1, investigators with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, and more than 30 partner agencies identified and arrested 67 previously convicted sex offenders for new crimes involving children. These arrests stemmed from unlawful online activity uncovered through database analysis, cyber investigations, and coordinated field operations. Several arrests also led to the discovery of additional, serious offenses. Offenders taken into custody face charges including first degree rape, computer aided solicitation of a juvenile, indecent behavior with a juvenile, possession of child sexual abuse material, sexual abuse of an animal, and other similarly disturbing crimes. When Attorney General Murrill took office in January 2024, the Task Force included only eight partner agencies. Today, more than 70 agencies statewide receive training, investigative leads, and support related to child exploitation cases. This year alone, the Louisiana ICAC Task Force has received 26,896 Cybertips, made 516 arrests, identified 82 new child victims, and rescued 64 children from ongoing abuse. Sheriff David Hedrick and Sheriff Toney Edwards and their departments participated Operation Access Denied and continue their work in tracking down and arresting sex perps who target kids.

Concordia Parish has 5,936 persons with jobs, down 195 jobs from a year ago. The jobless rate is 6 percent.

Tom Graning is this year‘s Santa Claus Committee Santa. The committee is known for its fundraising and annual car parade through the city on Christmas Eve. Members of the committee raise money for local charities, including the Natchez Children’s Christmas Tree Fund, which distributes toys and goodies to kids on Christmas Eve at Braden School.

Sean Tindell

More than 60 law enforcement officers from across the state, including Adams County deputies, highway patrol officers and other law enforcement personnel, did a sweep of Adams County and traffic stops to pick up 13 criminals on drug, illegal weapons possession, and other charges. Most of the offenders were charged with felonies. Mississippi Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell coordinated the arrests, along with his department. 

Concordia deputies arrested Colby Miller, 22, for aggravated second-degree battery. Deputies also charged Avery Guidry, 21, for aggravated second-degree battery. Both men remain in jail. Miller has been held in jail since September on a previous felony. Guidry was already being held for first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, kidnapping a child and armed robbery with a firearm. 

Adams County will install a new state historical marker on the grounds of the Adams County Courthouse that will honor its 10 Black legislators elected during Reconstruction. The marker is part of the “Making Their Mark” project, a statewide, grant-funded initiative to recognize the first African Americans to hold legislative office in Mississippi after the Civil War. The marker will be acquired through the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. Installation is planned for late 2026. The exact location on the courthouse grounds will be determined later as the matter is reviewed by the Natchez Preservation Commission. The draft text for the front side of the marker reads: After the Civil War, the 14th Amendment and a new state constitution enabled the people of Mississippi to elect 162 Black men to state or national office over the next 20 years, more than any other state. Ten of these legislators represented Adams County, including Hiram Rhodes Revels, the first African American to serve in either house of the U.S. Congress. The overthrow of Reconstruction and passage of the 1890 state constitution ended multiracial democracy in Mississippi for over 70 years. The text proposed for the back side reads: The following Black Men from Adams County served in the legislature from 1870-1891, United States Congress: John Roy Lynch and Hiram Rhodes Revels, State Senate: Jeremiah M.P. Williams, State House of Representatives: George F. Bowles, Felix L. Cory, Willis Davis, William W. Hence, Henry P. Jacobs, William H. Lynch, George R. Washington.

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Hiram Revels Plaza

The City of Natchez, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Mississippi Department of Transportation, has announced the launch of the Transforming the Forks to Freedom Corridor project. This initiative, funded by a $24,570,000 federal BUILD grant, will address infrastructure, and business-lifestyle connectivity needs within the Devereux Drive, St. Catherine, and East Franklin corridors, as well as Downtown areas. The Forks to Freedom Corridor project builds upon the City’s official 2018 Downtown Master Plan, which reflects both professional planning and extensive community visioning and engagement. The project will improve transportation and pedestrian safety and accessibility; enhance quality of life and aesthetics for residents and visitors; strengthen economic opportunities and tourism; and better connect people to jobs, education, and cultural heritage assets. After an initial application in 2023, Natchez secured full funding in June 2024. No local match is required, ensuring 100 percent federal support. Planned Improvements Include: Pedestrian accessibility upgrades in the Historic Downtown Business District, Commercial corridor mobility improvements along St. Catherine Street, East Franklin Street, and Devereux Drive, Gateway and signage enhancements along Highway 61 on the east side of the 'Flyover,' Safety lighting installations in areas of need such as Devereux Drive and Enhancement and expansion of Natchez’s diverse cultural tourism assets, including improvements near or adjacent to the historic Forks of the Road, the site of the second largest enslavement market, and the Senator Hiram Revels Plaza, honoring the first African American elected to the U.S. Congress.

Former Jefferson Davis Hospital administrator William “Bill” Mitchell has died at the age of 89. He had an illustrious career running hospitals and was the Natchez hospital’s most successful administrator for many years in the 1970s and 1980s. 

Michael Foret, 38, was arrested by Adams County deputies for felony child endangerment and DUI. He is a resident of Fourchon, Louisiana. Bond has not been set. He has been arrested and convicted of four DUIs in South Louisiana over the years. And has been arrested for DUI when on probation after causing a traffic accident because he was intoxicated.   

New nativity

A life-size nativity scene donated to the City of Natchez by Warren and Nancy Reuther, owners of the Natchez Grand Hotel.

For the fourth year in a row, Wilkinson County will not need a tax anticipation note, as property tax revenues are coming in slightly ahead of schedule. However, supervisors will refinance the jail construction bond for $1.5 million to include over $500,000 on needed repairs for the county jail.   

Concordia Parish has suffered a population decline similar to what has occurred in Southwest Mississippi. The current population in 2025 is estimated to be 17,585, a reflection of continuing outward migration, as workers leave the area for better jobs around the South. The parish has lost 23 percent of its population in 45 years. Vidalia has not escaped the economic wrath either. It had a population of 5,936 in 1980 and today in 2025, the population is estimated to be 3,938, a drop of 33 percent in 45 years. While local government in Vidalia is healthy due to hydro money, that influx of cash has been unable to bring prosperity to either the town or parish. Outward migration continues. The federal government estimates that the median household income in Concordia Parish is $43,000. That means half the households earn more than $43,000 and half the households earn less than $43,000, better than Natchez but still very poor by state and national standards. Louisiana has a median household income of $61,000.

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Rededication

A rededication service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, 57 Church Hill Rd., Dec. 20 from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., The church began to 1820,and  will have its 1858 church building rededicated to the glory of God, following a total restoration. Bishop Dorothy Sanders Wells will be celebrant. A reception will follow at Church Hill Variety. 

Natchez police arrested 29 people so far in December, eight with felonies. Four accused felons were previously reported in the news. The following are new: Police arrested Jabbarine T. Whitney, 38, for assault on an officer and grand larceny. Bond was set at $33,500. Kevin R. Bates, 39, was charged with  burglary of a dwelling. Bond as set at $40,000. Derrick L. Bingham, 40, was arrested for a business burglary. Bond was set at $10,000. Mandy N. Adams, 45, is wanted as a fugitive from justice.

City, county, state and federal officials will gather at the Natchez Adams airport Tuesday, December 16 at 10:30 AM to celebrate the upcoming renovation of the Natchez airport and welcome the coming of SkyWest. The airline starts flights to and from Houston beginning July 1. The public is invited.

Dana and Kevin Wilson

Adams County Supervisor Kevin Wilson is running for Congress against Bennie Thompson. Wilson will qualify as a Republican.

Gov. Tate Reeves has announced a $1.7 million grant to clear and level 106 acres of the IP Rentech site in Adams County to make it more suitable for industrial development. The grant will also help fund the removal of large sections of concrete. Adams County purchased the land 11 years ago as Rentech’s fortunes were failing. Taxpayers paid $9.3 million for 478 acres. Natchez Inc. now calls the property the “Mississippi River Energy Complex.” Natchez Inc. CEO Chandler Russ told aldermen recently he believes Natchez-Adams County will be attractive to industries in green energy.

Sparklight Cable will begin offering 2 Gig service soon in the Natchez area. It offers 5 Gig service at a premium price for businesses that need extra fast Internet service.   

Your VIDALIA POLICE DEPARTMENT continues to provide excellent service. We protect life and property, maintain law and order, prevent and respond to crime. This is accomplished through a variety of means, including expanded patrolling, responding to emergencies, investigating crimes, and accepting anonymous tips. VPD enforces traffic, and all local and state laws, making arrests, and testifying at trials. VPD cooperates with area sheriffs' departments, state police and federal agencies. Vidalia has one of the best police departments in the state because we are able to hire and retain experienced, professional officers, who help us lead and motivate newcomers to our force. Our officers and staff have built a strong rapport and respect within the community. And we hope to improve even more in the future. For Emergencies, call 911. For our offices, call 318-336-5254. 202 Vernon Steven Blvd., Vidalia, La. 71373.

CHIEF OF POLICE JOEY MERRILL. https://www.facebook.com/VidaliaLouisianaPoliceDepartment

Forrest Johnson honored

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson gave Forrest Johnson a certificate of recognition this week. Johnson recently ran seven marathon on seven continents.

Adams County emergency services, sheriff’s deputies, city police and medical personnel participated in a mock shooter drill in Natchez today to test the response of the various agencies to a crisis. The community usually schedules one emergency services disaster drill per year, dealing with severe weather, industrial accidents or other catastrophic events. The drills help personnel become more acclimated to dealing with crisis situations before they happen. 

Christmas parades continue with Sicily Island, Saturday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m. and Harrisonburg, Friday, Dec. 19, at 6 p.m.   

Adams deputies have found Anthony Owens, 60, of Natchez. He was wanted on three counts of failure to register as a sex offender. He is being held in jail. Judge Danny Barber denied bond,  Owens had fledthe state to Illinois and was wanted for four years.

More jobs

The number of jobs in Adams County rose to 10,090 in September, the first time the number has been higher than 10,000 since Spring. The data shows an increase of 230 jobs compared to September 2024. The current jobless rate is 5.1%

Ferriday has been hit by a series of fires in 2025. The Ferriday Police Department, Ferriday Methodist Church, Hewitt's Archery, four vehicle fires and two house fires have been recorded.

Vidalia will consider updating its ordinances to regulate te use of ATVs, side by sides and golf carts on town streets. Current Louisiana law says that ATVs and side-by-sides have to be street legal and the driver has to be licensed and insured, if driven on a state road. Aldermen are expected to come up with a modified vehicle ordinance that complies with state law and also governs use of these vehicles by juveniles with restrictions.

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Kishara Wiley

Kishara Wiley works with the Natchez School District to help identify and provide educational services to kids who have learning disabilities, emotional problems and special needs. The schools receive federal funds to help educate these kids. If you believe your child might benefit from such help, contact Wiley at 601-445-2295. The help is available for youth ages 3-21.

Merit Health Natchez CEO Kevin Samrow said the hospital’s Google’s ratings have increased by 32 percent with nearly 100,000 patients encounters and over 18,000 emergency room visitors in the past year. The hospital has been recertified as a Level IV trauma center. Merit has also spent an additional $1.8 million in capital improvements. The hospital has been able to add a part time urologist.  

Judge Carmen Brooks has revoked the probation of shooter killer Jalin Johnson, 23, of N atchez, for being arrested again, this time for shooting and wounding a man on Jackson Street in November. Johnson will serve seven years of his remaining sentence from the killing he did in 2017. Then he will be tried for the shooting he committed in 2025.

Greg West

Greg West told Natchez aldermen that the National Boys and Girls Club organization has donated $100,000 to help kick off the Natchez chapter. The Adams County Board of Supervisors has pledged to contribute $25,000. The school district has agreed to let the club use a portion of Morgantown School for its activities. Mayor Gibson said the city will discuss an appropriation in January. It is likely the city will also donate $25,000 to the first year operations.   

Concordia Sheriff David Hedrick congratulated Michael Brescher, Tiffany Brescher, Arzell Green, and Tiffany Davis for becoming Louisiana POST-certified deputies. Each peace officer has completed a training course with a minimum of 496 hours required for certification. Level 1 certification requires that the peace officer meet the POST requirements for firearms qualification also.

Natchez aldermen deadlocked 3-3 on appointing Donna Sessions to the promotion commission board that supervises Visit Natchez. Mayor Gibson broke the tie in favor of Sessions. Aldermen Frazier, Irving and Davis thought the current opening on the board should be advertised so that others could apply. Aldermen Hall, Smith and Moroney felt they should approve Sessions as she had applied before for a previous vacancy on the board and was qualified to serve.

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New roof

Natchez aldermen will open bids January 8 for the replacement of the roof on the Natchez Civic Center. The bid specifications call for a TPO single ply membrane roof as the replacement for the current roof. Local taxpayer funds will be used to pay for the project, as no grants are available.

Natchez-Adams firemen turned out Sunday to fight a blaze at 46 Montgomery Rd. in Cloverdale. However, by the time they got there, the house was fully engulfed and the home burned to the ground.

Natchez police have arrested two Natchez men for participating in a shooting that left a man wounded on Jackson St. in early November. Jalin Johnson, 23, and Jamauri McNealy, 30, have been charged with attempted murder and two counts of aggravated assault and shooting into a dwelling. They remain in jail on $500,000 bonds.Johnson previously shot and killed Scottie Rodgers and wounded a woman. He was released after only serving a day in jail of a 10 year sentence by MDOC. McNealy was previously arrested for armed robbery and for helping inmates escape from the Adams County jail.

Holiday theater

Natchez Little Theatre presents "The Holiday Channel Christmas Movie Wonderthon," the sugar rush of six Christmas movies all at once! Welcome to Hopewood Falls, Vermont, where singles in adorable sweaters converge to look for love. Can disguises help royalty and/or movie stars find the down-to-earth connections they crave? Will evil city slickers destroy charming inns and/or Christmas tree farms? Isn’t it a little creepy for a meet-cute to depend on one person being in a coma? Grab a hot chocolate and your favorite wise single friend to find out in this wildly entertaining parody of holiday rom-coms. For more information visit www.thenatchezlittletheater.com, 601-442-2233. Show Dates & Times: Thursday, Dec, 11, 7:30pm, Friday, Dec. 12, 7:30pm, Saturday, Dec. 13, 7:30pm, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2:00pm. General Admission: $25 Senior (65+), Military(w/ID), Students: $15.

The Lake Montrose Volunteer Fire Department will receive a new $400,000 fire truck, thanks to Adams County supervisors and grant funds. The new truck carries up to 2000 gallons of water and should be delivered shortly.

Natchez police arrested Jamara Carradine, 34, of Natchez, for felon in possession of a weapon. He was being held in jail. In the last two years, he’s been charged with probation violation and jailed and had run ins with police for disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. But this is the first time in the last few years that he’s been charged with a felony. Samuel H. Walker, 36, of Natchez, was arrested by police for auto burglary, a felony, and other misdemeanor charges. He was jailed for the burglary. Police also arrested Patrick B. Duck, 21, of Natchez, for felony possession of a stolen weapon, the attempt to obtain or dispose of such a weapon and various misdemeanor charges. He was being held in jail.

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Joseph Coy Edwards

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating the following non-compliant registered sex offender: Joseph Coy Edwards, Date of Birth: October 5, 1989, Height/Weight: 6’1”, approx. 236 lbs, Hair/Eyes: Bald / Blue, Last Known Address: Natchez. A warrant has been issued for Mr. Edwards due to his failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements. His current whereabouts are unknown. If you have any information regarding the location of Joseph Coy Edwards, please do not attempt to make contact. Instead, contact law enforcement immediately: Call 911 or the Adams County Sheriff’s Office: 601-442-2752. If you wish to remain anonymous, you may also submit a tip through the Adams County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1D5bh6Yb4g/?mibextid=wwXIfr.

Co-Lin Natchez educator Sandra Smith is currently serving this school year 2025-2026 as a first year Board Member for MAACE, the Mississippi Association of Adult & Community Education. She also serves on the MAACE Website & Social Media Committee. Mission of MAACE: The Mississippi Association for Adult and Community Education (MAACE) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion, improvement, and expansion of Adult Education throughout Mississippi.

Tyronna Herrington, 21, of Natchez, remains in the parish jail, arrested by Concordia deputies for allegedly throwing contraband over the Concordia prison fence.   

Black bear killed

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents are investigating the illegal shooting and killing of a Louisiana Black Bear that was found with a fatal gunshot wound in Concordia Parish on Nov. 30. Agents were notified about a dead bear off Blount Road on the Richard K. Yancy Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Agents responded to the scene and found the dead bear. LDWF personnel determined the bear was an adult male about 375 pounds and it was illegally shot and killed. A reward of up to $3,500 is being offered to anyone with information that leads to a conviction in this case. The reward consists of $2,500 from the Safari Club International Acadiana Chapter and up to $1,000 from Louisiana Operation Game Thief. Anyone with information regarding this illegal killing of a black bear should call the Louisiana Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-442-2511 or use LDWF’s tip411 program. To use the tip411 program, citizens can text LADWF and their tip to 847411, or download the free “LADWF Tips” iPhone and Android app. Taking a bear during a closed season brings a $900 to $950 fine and up to 120 days. Civil restitution for the replacement value of the illegally taken black bear totaling $4,350 will also be assessed.   

Concordia deputies have arrested Victoria “Tori” Marling, 35, of Vidalia, for prohibited sexual contact between an educator and a student and obstruction of justice. She is a teacher at Delta Charter School. Marling is currently being held in the Concordia jail. This is normally a misdemeanor charge punishable by up to 6 months in jail and $1000 fine.   

Vidalia police arrested Dan L. Buck Jr., 49, of Natchez, for felony theft. He was released on bond.   

Remering veterans

The Wreaths Across America ceremony will be held Dec. 13, at 11 a.m, at the Natchez City Cemetery.

Frederick Hauer and Tyrell White were arrested by Adams County deputies for intimidating a witness during the recent Myrtle Drive murder trial. They tried to get a prosecution witness not to testify. Both men have had their probation cancelled and have by sent back to MDOC to serve the remainder of their previous sentence, as ordered by Judge Debra Blackwell. The criminals will stand trial in Adams County for witness tampering after their jail sentences are completed.

The Catahoula police jury met and after some debate, decided to purchase new accounting software and a contract with CPA Laura Hartt of West Monroe for the audit and budget. Jurors set Dec. 22 for the budget hearing on the new budget. Parish leaders then voted to spend $6100 on a new welder for the county barn. A Larto resident asked for maintenance on Larto Loop Rd., which is not in good repair. Jurors agreed to do some work there in 2026. Jurors also approved the purchase of security cameras for the health unit.

Trash debacle

Waste Pro of Natchez has dropped Ferriday as a customer, since the town had owed the company $169,000, most of it past due. The mayor and aldermen decided to buy a used garbage truck and provide their own crew, so that garbage would not be sitting and rotting on the street. Ferriday has been under financial stress for years, because its revenues are not adequate to fund general government, police, fire, water, sewer and other costs. The town has been collecting garbage fees from residents, but obviously did not use those monies to pay Waste Pro. Town Clerk Becky Ann Albert said, "We paid them $75,000 and started paying $23,734.15 every month, we have not missed a payment. Waste Pro decided that they wanted all the money or they were going to pickup their cans, of course we didn’t have the money. They started picking up yesterday. By God’s Grace and mercy we will be getting our own equipment soon. Thanks to Alvin Garrison coming in as Mayor. The last administration left owing Waste Pro a balance of $169,000. We paid them $75,000 and start paying $23,734.15 every month, I have not missed a payment."

Natchez authorities say a long-running cycle of violence has resurfaced after a shooting on Jackson Street left one person hurt—and now one man is facing major charges while investigators prepare for at least one more arrest. According to Natchez Police, 23-year-old Jalin Johnson was taken into custody this week and is now charged with attempted murder, two counts of aggravated assault, and shooting into an occupied home in connection with the Nov. 4 gunfire. Municipal Court Judge Terrence Hunter set Johnson’s bond at $500,000 on Thursday. olice Chief Caroline Green said detectives are still putting the final pieces together, and another arrest is expected as the investigation moves forward. Johnson’s name isn't new to the criminal justice system. At just 17, he was the teen accused in the 2019 shooting death of Scottie Rodgers. Earlier this year, he was hit with a separate set of charges—first-degree homicide, conspiracy to commit homicide, attempted murder, and conspiracy-based assault charges. But just as that case was headed for trial in May, Johnson accepted a plea agreement. He was given a 10-year sentence, credited for the time he had already served, and the rest of his sentence was to be completed under post-release supervision. He walked out of custody the day the trial was supposed to begin. Now, only months after that release, Johnson is again at the center of a major violent-crime investigation—one that police say is still far from over. (Natchez News You Can Use)   

Various Christmas events scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 4 in Franklin County have been either cancelled or at least postponed due to inclement weather expected in the area. Earlier in the week, the Town of Bude postponed its Christmas Parade from Thursday afternoon to Monday afternoon. The parade will now roll starting at 4:15 p.m., with lineup starting at 3:45 p.m. Wednesday afternoon, Meadville Mayor announced that Meadville's Christmas Parade scheduled for Thursday has been cancelled. In addition, the "Visit With Santa" event scheduled for Thursday night has been moved to Monday starting at 6 p.m. on the front steps of the Franklin County Courthouse. Due to the weather, Meadville Methodist Church has cancelled its Live Nativity event that was scheduled for Thursday night after the Meadville Parade. The Dixie Daisy Juniorettes Breakfast with Santa scheduled for Saturday has also been cancelled. Anyone who has purchased a ticket for that event can expect to receive a refund from the Dixie Daisy Juniorette that sold you the ticket Please send a message through Facebook if you are not contacted. Thursday's forecast is calling for a 100 percent chance of rain with the high being 51 and the low being 45. Forecasts are for 1-2 inches of rain throughout the day. Wind chills will range from 38 degrees to 47 degrees.

24 graduates

On November 20, the Catahoula Correctional Center, in collaboration with the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Department, proudly graduated 24 inmates from the NSC Lift Truck Certification program, sponsored by Central Louisiana Technical Community College. This initiative was conducted in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, underscoring a shared commitment to rehabilitation and workforce readiness. The forklift certification equips inmates with a valuable, in-demand skill that enhances employability and prepares them for successful reintegration into society. By offering vocational training, CCC ensures that participants leave with both practical expertise and renewed confidence, reducing the likelihood of re-offense and fostering long-term success. Facility Chaplain David J. Fryoux, who oversaw the class, praised the dedication of the graduates: “Through the proper training offered through this program, each person has an open door for an excellent work experience when they go home. Everyone diligently concentrated on their study in this training class and passed the test successfully. Achieving this certification provided an increase in their self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment. They now have a more positive outlook and a sense of purpose.” The program highlights the transformative power of vocational education in correctional facilities. Positive outcomes include: · Increased employability through industry-recognized certification · Boosted confidence and a sense of accomplishment · Renewed purpose for re-entry into society · Reduced recidivism rates by preparing inmates for meaningful employment This graduation is one of several rehabilitation and skill-building programs offered at CCC, reflecting the facility’s ongoing mission to provide hope, opportunity, and a pathway to success for those in its care.

Broadmoor Utilities customers report that once again they have no water. The subdivision faces frequent outages.   

Fire fund

Eight families lost nearly everything they owned in the Tara Apartments fire on Nov. 19. Delta Bank hosts a fund to benefit these families. Your donation would make a wonderful Christmas gift. 

 In July 2025, the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office received a report regarding the sexual abuse of a juvenile. The case was assigned to detectives in the Special Victims Unit. With the assistance of the Children’s Advocacy Center, an investigation was conducted, and probable cause was established. An arrest warrant was issued for Demarius Prince Hawkins. On November 26, Hawkins was taken into custody by detectives from the Concordia Sheriff’s Office without incident. He was booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility, where he is currently held on a $110,000 bond. Arrested was Demarius Prince Hawkins, 42, of Vidalia, for two counts if Indecent Behavior with Juvenile(s) and Sexual Battery-Victim Under 13 Years of Age.   

On July 31, the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office received a report regarding the possible sexual assault of a juvenile. The case was assigned to detectives in the Special Victims Unit. With the assistance of the Alexandria Children’s Advocacy Center and the Department of Child and Family Services, the investigation established probable cause, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant for Harley Blake Nolan. It was determined that Harley was living in Hydro, Oklahoma. With the assistance of the Hydro Police Department, he was taken into custody without incident on November 21, 2025. Nolan is charged with one count of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile-Victim Under 13 Years of Age. Nolan was transported and booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility on November 26, 2025, where he is being held on a $35,000 bond.

Parades

Christmas parades are ready to roll: Jonesville, Friday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m., Ferriday, Saturday, Dec. 6, at 3 PM; Natchez, Saturday, Dec, 6 at 6 PM; and Vidalia, Sunday, Dec. 7 at 3 PM.   

The Concordia Parish Police Jury has combined Precincts 1-1 and 1-2 in Ferriday because the precincts were small. The voters of the combined precinct will vote at the health unit on Mickey Gilley Ave.   

Ferriday Mayor Alvin Garrison has set goals for 2026, including cleaning up downtown, attracting new businesses and jobs and working cooperatively with the Town Council. He also mentioned new sewer pumps are being installed.

Wanted: Anthony Owens

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating a registered sex offender who is currently non-compliant and has three warrants for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender as required by Mississippi law. Anthony Darnell Owens, 30arblestone Rd, Natchez, DOB: 04/25/1965; black male, approx. 5’3”, 147 lbs, black hair, brown eyes Owens has failed to comply with Mississippi’s Sex Offender Registry requirements on multiple occasions. These registration laws exist to protect the public and ensure accountability. If you know his whereabouts or have information that may assist law enforcement: call 911 immediately or the Adams County Sheriff’s Office: 601-442-2752. 

Wilkinson County supervisors ordered a new fire truck a few months ago. It is expected to be delivered to the Buffalo Fire Department before Christmas.   

The Trump administration wants to put to end all the pending school desegregation cases in the nation, including Concordia. However, federal Judge Dell Drell wants to make sure Concordia is following the law. Without the DOJ pushing the case, it is likely the school district can show its history of compliance and change over the decades, and what plans it will do in the future. Then Judge Drell can dismiss the case. The new atmosphere means that most likely Concordia will not have to modify where its students go to school. But the district will have to show past and planned progress. Superintendent of Schools Bachus and the school attorneys should be able to show compliance. The district must provide evidence on how black students are being appropriately educated, that black teachers and black administrators are part of the system and decision-making.  

New terminal

As SkyWest gets ready to provide passenger air service from Natchez to Houston starting in July, the company will convert a 10,000 square foot hanger at the Natchez airport into its own terminal for arrivals and departures. This will allow the company to customize the terminal for its needs and provide the necessary security for boarding.

Tuwanna Williams has resigned her position as Natchez-Adams workforce development director and is taking a similar position at Co-Lin Natchez. She was hired by the city and county four years ago. 

Meadville Convalescent Home recently responded to complaints against its facility. The Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services conducted an investigation into the complaints during visits to the facility Nov. 10-12. The center was investigated related to accidents, residents’ rights and quality of care. Complaints against nursing homes and related medical facilities can be filed by residents/patients, family members and even members of the community. The complaints are a matter of public record and available online. Meadville Convalescent Home Director and Mastercare, Inc., Chief Operations Office Bryan Hornsby said he welcomed the inspection of the facility by state officials. “Yes, the Department of Health did investigate a complaint last month,” he said. “The investigator spent several days looking into allegations and we were delighted that her findings affirmed our long-standing reputation for excellent resident care." Franklin Advocate

Low ACT scores

The State of Mississippi has released ACT scores for all the districts across the state. Natchez High ACT scores: 2015, Natchez 15.7 Mississippi 19; 2020, Natchez 19.0. Mississippi 20.6; 2025, Natchez 14.9. Natchez Early College 18.0, Mississippi 17.4. 

Kickoff the weekend some holiday cheer in Jonesville and Harrisonburg have special events Dec. 5-6. Friday: The Jonesville Christmas Parade starts at 6 PM — come enjoy the lights, music, candy, train ride and community fun! Saturday: The Christmas Carnival begins at 2:30 PM at Harrisonburg High School Gym with Santa pictures, food, games, and prizes for all ages. Stay after for the Christmas Cantata at 5 PM — the perfect way to celebrate the season together.     

Bude has postponed its Christmas parade until Monday at 4:15 pm to avoid the potential of bad weather.   

New lights

Natchez aldermen will open bids January 15 to purchase more LED street lights to go on the highways and major boulevards in town. 

The federal government shutdown affected the ability of Mississippi and Louisiana to collect and publish employment and jobless data. Normally, each state would release a report toward the end of the month for the previous month. For example, the November report would it be issued around November 25 to November 28 and would include the October jobs and jobless figures. But since the states were using federal money to collect all the data, they completely stopped data collecting when the feds shut down the government. As a result, there is no current data available at all, because the two states are two months behind in their work in numbers collection. Mississippi and Louisiana should issue a new report sometime in this month for September. As soon as our website gets those reports, we will let you know where we stand in terms of the number of local jobs and the current jobless rate. The jobs numbers are a key factor in determining whether the economy is growing or retreating. The last numbers reported were for August, and that showed a slight decline in the number of jobs for both Adams and Concordia compared to the spring. 

A revised Adams County Census estimate should be available between December and February. So far, it looks like the community dropped another 180 persons from 2024. The population has lost 1044 persons since 2020: 2025 28,494, 2020 29,538, -1044 persons, -3.5 percent. This discouraging news means our economic development efforts have not been able to counteract the continuing outflow of people leaving Adams County.

Paving

Adams supervisors awarded a $1.1 million bid to finish up the paving of Morgantown Rd. APAC of Mississippi, based in Ridgeland, will do the work.

Representative Robert Johnson made sure the legislature appropriated road repair and infrastructure funds for Natchez to include Carthage Point Rd. Part of the road is public and part of it is owned by the Johnson Famiily. Now Adams County supervisors have agreed to spend $325,000 of that money to fix the road to repair flooding damage. Even though the county purchased access and right of way rights to the private part of the road in the 1960’s for maintenance purposes, Johnson refuses to let the county or anyone else to get beyond his locked gate on the roadway without special permission. He has threatened to sue the county, if supervisors remove the gate. While Supervisors Middleton and Wilson wanted to to sue Johnson to enforce the county’s legal rights, Supervisors Gray, Hutchins and Gaines refused to do so. Now the county will spend $325,000 to upgrade the road, even though the public cannot use much of it. And Johnson gets state money to fix his private road.   

Natchez Inc.'s Chandler Russ was quoted as saying Natchez-Adams County has 13 active clients and $6.8 billion in projects on the drawing boards, including potential new investments, site upgrades and job opportunities. Russ added, "Our portfolio is extremely busy and we continue to work diligently to bring additional investment back to Natchez-Adams County." His remarks were published in the Natchez Democrat in an article written by Editor Jan Griffey, following his appearance before the Natchez aldermen. Miss-Lou Magazine and miss-loumagazine.com have been critical of Russ and the supervisors' scheme to purchase Rentech-IP land 12 years ago. Local taxpayers spent $9.3 million on the property and it has yet to pay off, with no permanent jobs or industries created. Russ recently revealed that the site has not been shovel-ready and suitable for industry for over 12 years because of ongoing environmental problems. Russ told city leaders last week that millions of dollars have been spent in grant funds to remedy the undisclosed problems. Additionally, our magazine criticized both Russ and Mayor Dan Gibson for hyping Velocys as a $1 billion project coming to Natchez, as far back in 2021-2022, when both men knew at the time the company was near broke and unable to build anything in Ohio or Natchez as promised. U.K.-based Velocys was purchased by Madison Bidco in 2024 for assumption of liabilities. The company currently exists as a research firm without a marketable product. It had hoped to produce synthetic jet fuel, but went bust before it could produce anything but test batches and very small amounts of fuel. Velocys never built anything in the U.S.

City's own illegal dump site

The City of Natchez has its own illegal dump site at Duncan Park, with tires, three junk vehicles, dozens of pallets, 55 gallon drums and more. 

The Natchez Chapter of the NAACP will sponsor a Stop Gun Violence rally and meeting, Saturday, Nov. 29, starting at 11 a.m. at 408 North MLK Street in the parking lot next to Zipy. The rally is open to everyone.   

Mississippi game wardens arrested Kevin W. McAllister, 47, of Ferriday, for possession of a weapon by a convicted felon. In 2023, Concordia deputies arrested him for felony possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia and possession of drugs in the presence of a minor. He remains in jail.

Natchez resident Karla Brown and her volunteers served a free Thanksgiving meal to several hundred people Thanksgiving Day at the Natchez Civic Center. 

Security fencing

Harrisonburg High School completed their 2024 Louisiana School and Nonprofit Security Grant Program by having security fencing installed. The objective of the grant is to provide funding for security enhancements or measures for schools and nonprofit organizations at risk of threats or acts of violence, terrorist attacks, or other extremist attacks. The foundation for all school safety and security planning and operations. A comprehensive risk assessment that identifies the highest-probability threats, their potential consequences, and the school or school district’s vulnerabilities to those threats. The grant program is part of a comprehensive set of measures authorized by the Louisiana Legislature. 

A Wilkinson County concerned citizens group, headed by L.C. Clark, presented a letter of complaint and concern to the school board at its recent meeting. The group says the county schools were rated a C before the current superintendent, Shamekia Rankin took charge. And now for six out of the past seven years, the school district has been rated F. The private citizens are worried that kids are not getting a good education and they feel the superintendent is disconnected from her staff and students. The school board accepted the letter of complaint. Superintendent Rankin did not make a response.   

Wilkinson County supervisors are asking for donations to help pay for the repair of the county courthouse clock and repair its chimes. So far, more than $1000 has been raised in donations. If you would like to donate, send your check to Wilkinson County Clock Fund, David Wilkerson County Administrator, PO Box 1284, Woodville, MS 39669.

Derelict homes

Natchez aldermen are dealing with several hundred properties that are in disrepair, falling down, derelict, have junk in the yard or the grass and trees are completely overgrown. The city adjudicates the properties and could penalize the owners with a fine or clean up costs. But the city doesn’t have enough money to do clean up. Many of the properties are owned by the estates of the deceased or by heirs that live out of state. Some local owners do perform cleanup or make repairs eventually. But many of the owners have limited resources and cleanup or repair is done at a snail’s pace. Aldermen put several dozen more properties into adjudication this week. 

The City of Natchez has announced a Christmas Decorating Challenge for residents in and around the Henry Brown Subdivision, Cambridge Heights, Holiday Apartments, and Maryland Heights, inviting households to turn their porches, yards, windows, and doors into small bursts of seasonal cheer.The city says “Santa’s Christmas Cheer” areas include a wide group of streets and neighborhoods. Residents in the following locations are encouraged to participate: Cora Avenue, Gaile Avenue, Meadow Lane, Opal Drive, Sgt. Henry L. Brown Drive, Virginia Avenue, Cambridge Heights, Holiday Apartments, Maryland Heights. The challenge isn’t limited to one style of decorating. Whether someone wants to go all-out with inflatable Santas and a full “North Pole” theme, or keep things neat and classic with tasteful lights and wreaths, the goal is simply to participate and bring some visual holiday warmth to the community.Judges will recognize winners in four categories: Best House, Best Yard, Best Door, Best Window. That means even smaller or simpler setups can still shine. A standout door display or a creatively lit window could take home a prize just as easily as a fully decorated yard.The city plans to award prizes including turkeys and gift cards.Judging is scheduled for Thursday, December 18, so decorators have a clear deadline to get lights up, ornaments placed, and final touches ready. Residents are encouraged to make sure their displays are visible from the street by that date.

Chandler Russ

Chandler Russ of Natchez Inc. told aldermen that his agency will continue to market the Belwood industrial park now that the levee is complete. He did not address the fact that city and county officials continued to hype Velocys coming to Natchez with a billion dollar investment, when in fact, they knew the company was dead in the water and not able to build anything. Russ said Adams County received more than $7 million for Belwood at little or no cost to local taxpayers. Adams County has received a $3.5 million in grants to clean up the IP site. That work is continuing. No Adams County officials have said previous to this week that cleanup of the IP site was necessary to land an industrial client. Russ said industry expects shovel-ready sites without environmental concerns. He did not say whether he considers the site now suitable for industry or not. The county taxpayers spent $9.3 million to purchase the Rentech IP site. Russ endorsed the purchase years ago. Russ said construction to the $20 million RV park near Kingston Rd. continues. The Tracetown Shopping Center project is ongoing and the airport securing passenger air will improve the economy. He believes Natchez is suitable for a chemical industry client because of its location on the river and its rail service. Russ there was ‘tons of misinformation on the internet and from people who don’t live here.’ He said, ‘Under no circumstances, has the city, county or any public entity lost any dollars in the green energy space.’ He believes green energy, fuels and power ideas will continue to make Natchez attractive. Aldermen accepted Russ’ report and thanked him for his good work.

Natchez police arrested Howard Alexander, 43, of Natchez, for shooting a gun in the city limits. Checking his record, they found is a convicted felon, so they arrested him for felon in possession of a firearm. Alexander was previously convicted and served time for armed robbery. Tyrone J. Nelson, 37, of Natchez, has been arrested by Adams County deputies for possession of a stolen weapon and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon. He remains in jail. 

Natchez City Planner Mingo Tingle went into detail with aldermen on how the city will monitor personal care homes. The city has the option of doing inspections for fire, safety, health and adequate living conditions. The new rules also limit personal care homes to certain zoning tracts, although existing homes are grandfathered in. Violating the city’s new rules can bring penalties of $1000-$5000. The city could revoke the facility’s privilege license. Currently, there are at least 11 personal care homes in operation, but only one is actually licensed by the state. Some homes have a city privilege license. Some don’t. The fact that at least 10 operators are unlicensed by the state means no inspections have been done by the state or the city, and officials have little idea whether the facilities are adequate or the residents receive proper care. Aldermen passed the new ordinance.   

The Knight Madsen CPA 2024 audit for Ferriday shows the town has difficulty handling its finances as in previous years, as minimal revenues cannot meet necessary expenses for general government operations, water and sewer. General government showed a deficit of $290,000, sewer services showed an operating deficit of $141,000 and water $157,000. With only $2.4 million in tax revenues, Ferriday simply doesn't have the tax base necessary to provide good services and break even. The gloomy picture is compounded by minimal cash on hand and cash reserves. While the Town Council has increased some taxes and fees to balance the books, Ferriday is very reliant on the sales tax it collects, $1.28 million, to fund general government. And the town fathers have no control on the amount of sales tax collected and whether those revenues rise or fall. So it's not surprising the town ran a $437,000 deficit after collecting $2.4 million in revenues. The audit tallies figures and acconting procedures from the final year of Mayor Rydell Turner's term. Hopefully, Mayor Garrison and his team cut expenses for 2025. If not, Ferriday will be in even more financial trouble. One option would be to discontinue the police department entirely that costs $600,000 a year to operate and see if Hedrick and CPSO could do the job for less, maybe $300,000. That move could possibly save the town from escalating costs for police cruisers, computers, gas, car repairs and staff. The CPAs recorded some negative findings in terms of bookkeeping and accounting: 1. The Town could not supply the auditor documentation related to contracts for services and invoices or similar documentation on expenditures. 2. The Town could not produce the minutes of all the council meeting held during the fiscal year. 3. The Town did not remit the funds due to the various judicial and law enforcement agencies for the charges/tickets paid during the year. 4. The Town did not timely file their financial statements with the Legislative Auditor on a timely basis. 5. The Town's bank account that holds utility deposits is less than the schedule of utility customer deposits. 6. The Town did not follow its established policies and procedures for utility collections by disconnecting service to customers due to nonpayment of their utility bills. Providing utility services without receiving payment is a violation of the Louisiana Constitution. 7. The Town is not depositing the correct amount of funds in the required bank accounts to meet bond requirements. Garrison and his clerks responded that the bookkeeping accounting problems will be fixed.

Franklin County parades

The Christmas season will kick off in full force on Thursday, Dec. 4 with a pair of annual Franklin County parades and other events. Things will begin the Annual Bude Christmas Parade starting at 2 p.m. that day. Lineup will begin at the fairgrounds at 1:15 p.m. Everyone is invited to decorate their Jeep, four-wheelers, side-by-side, golf carts, etc… and be a part of the event. Starting at 5:30 p.m., the Annual Meadville Christmas Parade will roll through downtown. Lineup will begin at Franklin County High School at 5 p.m. The Grand Marshal for the parade will be Wayne Carr while Mamie Ruth Halford will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Trey Hill will be honored with the Hometown Hero Volunteerism Award. At 6 p.m. that night, the Lillian Torrey Tree Lighting will take place at the Franklin County Courthouse, featuring a visit from Santa. Anyone wanting in the Meadville Parade is asked to email julie@mmtlaw.net.

The Concordia Parish Police Jury has reappointed Kathleen Stevens to the parish library board. Elizabeth Smith has been appointed to the board of Recreation District No. 3.

Paul and Sharon Leake of Natchez are the recipients of an award for Emerging Medical Device Company of the Year with VerteCore Technologies' groundbreaking orthopedic device, the VerteCore Lift. This FDA Class One approved spinal decompression medical device helps decompress the spine to cure back pain. The Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network presented the award.

Rescue

A woman and her autistic son were rescued after being lost for hours in a remote area of Adams County. the rescue followed a coordinated search effort by first responders and the assistance of a private citizen's drone. Sheriff Travis Patten said the search began around 5 p.m. Nov. 21, when Melissa Blackwell called 911 and pleaded for help. "Miss Blackwell said she and her son went down what looked like a four-wheeler trail, and all they could see were bodies of water on both sides of them," Patten said. "So, of course officers immediately jumped into action and began searching for her as E911 dispatch kept her online." Patten said that after two hours of searching, Blackwell and her son had not been found, prompting him to call out search and rescue teams, emergency management and officers with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to converge on the area. Authorities pinged Blackwell's cellphone, which showed she was somewhere within a seven-mile radius. They instructed her to flash her lights and honk the horn. "And one of the deputies heard the horn," Patten said. "Well, those deputies dragged through a bayou, and they went through the bayou thinking they were going in the right direction; it was still the wrong direction." With time running out and Blackwell having only a quarter tank of gas and 29 percent battery left on her phone, a private citizen in Wilkinson County deployed a drone, which helped searchers locate them. "She ran off the mud and got stuck on a stone, and that was the only thing that kept her and her son from going into this lake," Patten said. Officers used four-wheelers to navigate narrow hunting trails, guided by the drone's light, to safely rescue Blackwell and her son. "We purchased her some gas and we made sure she and her son got to the front steps of her house before we called it a night," Patten said.

Holiday music

The Natchez Festival of Music presents Yule Be Rockin', Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. at the civic center, 215 Franklin St. An annual favorite December event in Natchez, Christmas cabaret’s Yule Be Rockin’ turns up the volume on your favorite seasonal tunes. From bold new takes on the classics to heart-pounding hits that will have you singing and dancing along, this holiday community social is all about festive fun with an edge. Featuring incredible artists like guitarist Barry Leach, soprano Patricia Garner, and tenor Storm Wade. Tickets are $50 or $450 for a table of 10 people. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/yule-be-rockin-tickets-1738462180179?aff=oddtdtcreator

Natchez aldermen meet Nov. 25. One of the items on the agenda will be an ordinance to govern personal care homes.   

Natchez-Adams County firemen responded to two fires in the last 72 hours, one a storage shed on Community Lane and the other a mobile home on Cardinal Drive. Both fires were extinguished with no injuries reported. 

For the first time, Alcorn State University’s marching band, The Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite, will perform in the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Food drive

The Natchez Early College Student Government Association organized a school-wide canned food drive in support of the Natchez Stewpot for the Thanksgiving holiday. 

Three shooters, Jamarion Perkins, Jaddarius McKnight and Emmanuel Hall found were found guilty by an Adams County jury of two Aug. 2023 murders. Circuit Court Judge Carmen Drake sentenced the killers to two life terms to be served consecutively.

Natchez aldermen continue to battle to clean up derelict properties and plan to adjudicate 30 properties on Nov. 25 at 6 p.m. Penalties of up to $1500 van be assessed and costs of clean-up.

Catahoula Correctional Facility

A recent letter sent to Warden Gary Allen at Catahoula Correctional Center (CCC) has sparked renewed appreciation for the facility’s commitment to safe, respectful, and family-centered visitation. The letter, written by a mother who traveled a long distance to visit her son, praised CCC staff for their professionalism, compassion, and dedication to maintaining dignity for both inmates and their loved ones. “Too often, visitors are made to feel like they are the ones being punished,” the letter read. “But that was not the case at your facility. Your staff were courteous, patient, and respectful, all while maintaining the necessary procedures and security standards… I am deeply grateful that my son was able to spend quality time with his child – a moment he hasn’t had in over a year.” The letter underscores a powerful truth: a safe and friendly visitation environment doesn’t compromise security—it enhances morale, strengthens family bonds, and reinforces the humanity of those incarcerated. Sheriff Toney Edwards commended CCC’s leadership for their efforts in restoring visitation days, which had been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The impact of isolation on inmates’ morale was devastating,” Edwards said. For families of those incarcerated, in-person visits offer reassurance that no phone call can match. The impact of seeing someone face to face is profound. CCC has successfully hosted three separate visitation weeks this year, welcoming families from across Louisiana and as far away as North Carolina. Each event required extensive planning, security coordination, and logistical care. Warden Gary Allen credited his team for the smooth execution, including Deputy Warden Chris Barlow, Security Director Major Garry Jones, and Chief of Corrections Pam Patten. “We couldn’t have done it without the full cooperation of our staff,” Allen said. “Every officer, every administrator played a role in making sure these visits were safe, meaningful, and well-managed.” While CCC remains firm in its mission to hold individuals accountable for their actions, the facility also recognizes that incarceration should not be a dead end. Sheriff Edwards emphasized the importance of rehabilitation and reintegration. “People come to CCC to pay for their crimes, but that doesn’t mean we give up on them,” Edwards said. “We believe in second chances. That means offering mentorship, faith-based programs, education, and opportunities to reconnect with family. If we want people to return to society better—not bitter—we have to invest in their transformation.” CCC continues to expand its inmate-led mentorship initiatives, faith-based dorms, and vocational training programs. These efforts are designed not only to reduce recidivism but to restore purpose and self-worth in those who are incarcerated. As one visitor’s heartfelt letter reminds us, dignity and discipline can coexist. And when they do, lives change—on both sides of the fence.

Concordia schools improve slightly

The Louisiana Department of Education released Concordia performance scores: Monterey A, Vidalia Lower Elementary C, Vidalia Upper Elementary C, Vidalia Junior High C, Vidalia High B, Concordia Education Center A, Ferriday Lower Elementary D, Ferriday Upper Elementary D, Ferriday Junior High C, Ferriday High B, Delta Charter C. Overall, the district rose from a grade of 72 to 73.6, a C, this year.

When supporters of candidate Verna Johnson raised questions about absentee ballots from the recent election, Justice Court Judge Shameca Collins posted on Facebook, "So we cheated on the election, huh? GTFOH." The abbreviation means, "get the f--- out of here." She deleted the post, as the comment would be considered a violation of judicial ethics. 

The Louisiana Department of Education released performance scores, and Catahoula schools are moving up: Jonesville Elementary: +1.6 to 66.9 (C); Harrisonburg High: +7.7 to 91 (A); Block High: +11.1 to 70.5 (C). The district score also increased by 3.7 points to a 77.2 (B). This growth places the district at 6th on the list of the Top Growing School Systems in the state.

Accused killers on trial

Three accused murderers go trial Nov. 20 in Adams County for the execution style killings of two men on Myrtle Drive in August 2023. Jamarion Perkins, Jaddarius McKnight and Emmanuel Hill are each charged with two counts of first degree murder for killing Brandon Brooks and Taron Woods. Tyrell White, 29, of Natchez,  tried to intimidate a witness and was arrested for it at trial. He and other friends showed up at today’s hearing to spread fear among the witnesses. “Tie Dye” was out on bond for attempted murder and assault on a police officer. White shot his victim Je’Mario Clay three times in a planned attack.

Broadmoor residents complained, saying they have frequent water outages. They added that the water has been out for two days this week. Broadmoor Utilities said it is repairing a break in the main line.   

Two Louisiana men were killed in separate accidents in Wilkinson County. Kenneth Barbier, 66, of Denham Springs, and a friend were cutting down a pine tree near a deer food plot off Dry Creek Road. The tree fell, killing him. The friend was not injured. In the second accident, Austin Stein, 43, of LaPlace, was clearing brush near a hunting camp on Pickneyville Road, when he lost control of his tractor and fell down a 75 foot embankment.

Precious Clark

The Mississippi Highway Patrol said a crash on Hwy. 61 North near Selma Estates in Adams County took the life of a mother, Precious Clark, 26, of Port Gibson. Clark was driving a 2014 Honda Accord when she ran off the road. Her 3-year-old child was found in a ravine nearby, ejected from the vehicle. The child has been airlifted to Jackson for treatment and remains in critical condition. 

Christmas parades schedules are set: Ferriday, Sat., Dec. 6, at 3 p.m., Natchez, Sat., Dec. 6 at 6 p.m., and Vidalia, Sun. Dec. 7 at 3 p.m.

Tara Apartments fire

Building 9 at Tara Apartments in Natchez caught on fire Nov. 19. There was significant damage, but no injuries were reported. 

Apparently, there was mishandling of some absentee ballots in the recent Adams County Justice Court Judge election. Some of the ballots were left out in the open on desks and counters instead of being secured in locked precinct boxes or locked cabinets. It’s not known whether ballots were tampered with or not. There was video footage of the problem recorded by the county. But that video was recorded over with new video, so there is now no record. The outcome of the election would not have been changed because Collins received 2/3 of the vote.   

Adams County E-911 employees will now receive $17 an hour once they have completed training and certification. Supervisors gave the employees a $2 per hour raise. Other county employees got their raises earlier.

Club progress

The Natchez School District has offered the new Boys and Girls Club the use of Morgantown Elementary. The Club still has to raise at least $150,000 a year to be viable.

Lashonda Bowman was reported missing. Concordia deputies said she has ben found safe.

Adams deputies arrested Robert Galmore Jr., 22, of Natchez, for burglary and possession of a stolen weapon. Bond was set at $55,000. He was arrested in 2021 for burglary as part of a trio of house burglars.

During the recent Beauties and Beaus Pageant, Emma Claire Stebbins and was named Most Beautiful while Paden Arnold was named Most Handsome for Franklin County High School.

Rebate checks coming

Nearly 2,500 Sydney Murray Hydroelectric rebate checks totaling nearly $3,000,000 to be mailed this week to Vidalia utility customers. The checks will probably be in the post office hands Thursday or Friday.

The Town of Roxie will host a Thanksgiving Dinner for seniors citizens in the area starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22. The event will run until all of the food is given out, and all senior citizens are welcome and encouraged to attend. The event will take place at Roxie City Hall, located at 124 West St. SW in Roxie. The event is being hosted by REBRA and Sisterly Love. For more information or to reserve your spot, contact Restora Wilson at 601-384- 0545, April Hunt at 601-697-4543 or Hattie Covington at 601-697-5874.

Darryl Lee Smith, 41, of Natchez, was driving along Cranfield Rd. Saturday afternoon, when he collided with a limb truck hauling a bulldozer. He sustained fatal injuries.

Chief Detective Dewain Littleton, Sheriff Toney Edwards, Supervisory Special Agent Chris Masters, and Chief Deputy Ben Adams.

The Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office is intensifying its fight against child exploitation through a strengthened partnership with Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill and the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. This announcement follows a major October arrest in Catahoula Parish involving Gregory Dewayne Drumgoole, 26, who now faces multiple felony charges related to child exploitation. After receiving a complaint, CPSO launched an investigation led by Chief Detective Dewain Littleton. Search warrants uncovered evidence including 170 counts of pornography involving juveniles, indecent behavior with juveniles, production of child pornography, and computer-aided solicitation of a minor. Drumgoole was taken into custody and remains under prosecution. Sheriff Toney Edwards emphasized the importance of vigilance: “We are charged to serve and protect the people of Catahoula Parish, especially those who cannot defend themselves. This arrest underscores the importance of swift action when it comes to crimes against children. Our partnership with the Attorney General’s Office ensures we have the tools and support needed to pursue justice relentlessly.” Statewide Context Attorney General Liz Murrill has expanded Louisiana’s ICAC Task Force from 8 agencies to 64 statewide partners since taking office in January 2024. That expansion has fueled an unprecedented surge in cyber tips — more than 20,000 reports in 2025 alone, already surpassing last year’s total. The influx has led to hundreds of arrests and dozens of children rescued from ongoing abuse. The ICAC Task Force is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces representing over 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. In Louisiana, the ICAC Unit operates under the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation and includes special agents, forensic examiners, analysts, and investigators working around the clock to pursue leads and analyze digital evidence. Through this collaboration, CPSO gains enhanced capabilities to investigate and prosecute online predators who target minors. The ICAC Task Force provides specialized training, investigative tools, and access to digital forensic labs, empowering local law enforcement to respond effectively to cyber tips and digital threats. Sheriff Edwards added: “Protecting our children is one of the most important responsibilities we carry. This partnership strengthens our ability to respond quickly and effectively to online threats. Together, we’re sending a clear message — if you target children, we will find you, and we will hold you accountable.”  Recognition of CPSO’s Efforts On November 17th, Supervisory Special Agent Chris Masters with Attorney General Murrill’s office visited Sheriff Edwards to personally thank CPSO for its tireless work and unwavering commitment to safeguarding children in the digital age. 

News conference

Mayor Dan Gibson, Sheriff Travis Patten and Police Chief Cal Green met at City Hall today to discuss the problem of the most recent crime outbreaks. The mayor said that the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics are willing to work some cases in Natchez Adams County. Sheriff Patten has asked supervisors to pass an ordinance that requires apartment complexes to upgrade their security, including adding more cameras. Gibson pointed out judges are allowing people to walk with light bonds. And that many offenders out on bond are committing crimes and their bonds are not revoked.

Michael Pennington, 65, of Natchez, was driving along Sgt. Prentiss Drive Saturday night, when his vehicle was rear-ended by a truck driven by Jonathan Cook, 37, of Natchez. Pennington’s vehicle overturned and he was killed. Cook suffered injuries and was taken to Merit Health. He refused a DUI test. But in the case of a vehicular death, the blood of both drivers would be automatically tested for intoxication and substances. Pennington was well known for his work as a Domino’s driver.

Natchez police said there was a shooting Sunday evening at Susie B. West Apartments. Jlandrick Davis, 25, of Natchez, was shot and killed. Police are investigating.

Forrest Johnson III

Congratulations to Forrest Johnson III of Natchez. A competitive marathon runner, Forrest is participating in a world marathon tour, seven marathons in seven days on seven continents. So far, he’s run in Africa, Antarctica and Australia. His wife, Julie, said he finished 12th among all competitors in Antarctica. 

Concordia public schools will consider offering foreign languages next fall as part of the curriculum. The superintendent believes Spanish should be taught.

A burn ban is in effect for Catahoula Parish.   

Billionaire philanthropist and author Mackenzie Scott has donated $42 million to Alcorn State University. She gave the school $25 million in 2020. Scott is the university’s largest donor in its history.

Johnny Junkin, Tuwanna Williams

2025 Natchez-Adams Chamber of Commerce Award Winners include Man of the Year: Johnny Junkin , Woman of the Year: Tuwanna Williams, Large Business of the Year: Philbro rCB and Small Business of the Year: Natchez Olive Market.   

Mayor Dan Gibson informed the aldermen that the city and county needed to allocate another $100,000 for a terminal upgrade since the airline is coming in July. He was met with a blizzard of complaints from aldermen as to why the supervisors don’t send a representative to ask for the extra $50,000. Gibson was expecting an easy time getting the money from the board. And in the end, after much complaining, the aldermen did agree to put up another $50,000 to match the county’s $50,000, in hopes of getting a little more grant money from Jackson.   

Natchez police say two people were shot and wounded near Holiday Apartments on Thursday. One was treated at Merit and one airlifted out of town. No other details are available yet.

Withdrawing from Concordia

The Louisiana Humane Society has withdrawn its support for Concordia Parish and will no longer intervene here due to Judge Kathy Johnson’s ruling that dog fighter and abuser Maurice Sheppard receive just 10 days in jail and a $2400 fine for abusing more than 40 dogs. The Louisiana Humane Society spent more than $40,000 caring for the dogs. And it believes Shepherd should’ve received significant jail time for his felonies. 

The Town of Vidalia is expected to pass a new or revised ordinance that would penalize businesses that keep a trashy lot, fail to pick up litter, allow grass to grow too high, collect junk and debris on the property and fail to maintain the building. Currently, offenders can be cited and taken to court. The aldermen may consider a provision that would withdraw permission to operate until the building and lot are properly cared for. 

Jonesville Elementary has received a $50,000 grant from the state to improve safety and security at the school.

Most Wanted

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office has identified four individuals currently being sought on active warrants and indictments for various felony charges. Investigators say Roderick Williams, 40, is wanted in connection with a counterfeit forgery and uttering case. Derrick Bates, 44, is being sought on an indictment for aggravated assault. Wesley Douglas, 34, is wanted on an indictment involving both simple and aggravated assault. Dionntae Dishta, 26, is facing multiple charges, including tampering with evidence, receiving stolen property, trafficking a controlled substance, and other drug violations. Authorities are asking anyone with knowledge of these suspects’ whereabouts to contact the Adams County Sheriff’s Office at 601-442-2752 or Crime Stoppers at 888-442-5001.

Quiero P. Johnson, 38, of Natchez,  has a history of felony offenses. Judge Danny Barber set his bond for the three counts of simple assault at $50,000 per count for a total of $150,000. Adams deputies made the arrest. 

Natchez aldermen voted 4-1 to allow 37 Homochitto St. to continue to operate as a short term rental, even though the city planning department improperly gave the owners permission to operate two years ago.

Ryan Keyser

Ryan Keyser, 48, of Natchez, district manager at Roux 61, was driving his motorcycle near Moos and Joh R. Junkin Dr. in Natchez and a vehicle ran into the back of him. He suffered critical injuries, was airlifted to Jackson, but doctors could not save him. Prayers for Ryan and his family.

Thieves have found out some of the City of Natchez's checking account numbers and routing numbers and issued phony checks. But Home Bank refused payment on the checks, knowing they were bogus. The city did not lose any money. The bank says the city should close the suspect accounts and open new ones.

Natchez will hire PPM Consultants, an engineering firm, to supervise the city's Brownfields environmental projects (Tracetown and Fry Building). Aldermen reappointed Sam Gwin and appointed Lisa Chandler to the Natchez Housing Authority board. 

Late audit

When Adams County supervisors submitted their annual audit for 2023, it was more than a year late. The 2023 audit was due no later than September 2024 but was actually submitted in September 2025. Now, two years after the 2023 fiscal year has ended, the figures in the audit become meaningless because they are so old and not relevant to current finances. The CPA pointed out some accounting problems that need addressing. County employees do not know how to do bank reconciliations, an important part of making sure checks are properly documented. The county made several large purchases that should have been bid by law. The county spent over $100,000 doing Broadmoor park repairs and purchasing breathing apparatuses. Both purchases should’ve been bid and were not. The circuit clerk failed to deposit excess funds in a timely manner. Depositing the funds later is not allowed and considered a misappropriation. She did not keep accurate track of cash and fines collected. She did not perform reconciliations. A report is supposed to be filed with the State Treasurer documenting deposits. No report was filed. The county did not file the proper PERS paperwork for three employees who were retiring. The paperwork needs to be filed correctly and on time to guarantee the employees get their money on time. The paperwork also allows retired employees to be rehired as contract employees after a 90 day waiting period. Bridgers CPAs of Vicksburg performed the audit.

The City of Natchez will open bids for the Duncan Park Mountain Bike Trail upgrades on Dec. 8. The work shall consist of the construction of natural trails and trail additions such as berms and grade reversals. Natchez will utilize monies received from the Mississippi Recreational Trails Program of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, along with local matching funds to complete the project. The job should be completed in four months once started.

Natchez aldermen will take up the issue of 37 Homichitto St. again this week. The city had improperly permitted the property for short term rentals. And the owners have carried on with business for two years. Now neighbors have objected to the improper permit.   

Pantry donations

Volunteers and the community got behind the drive to get donations for the Heavens Manna Food Pantry in Franklin County. More than 3024 pounds of food were donated and another $2045 in cash. The charity operates from 39 Fifth St. in Roxie.

Lily Endowment, the pharmaceutical company’s foundation, has donated another $2.5 million to the Miss. Department of Archives and History. The Department will now donate $750,000 of the money to finish the repairs and restoration of Huddleston Chapel at Natchez College. 

Woodville police and Wilkinson deputies responded to a call on Ford Creek Road, where Freddie Davis Jr. was shot and wounded in the leg. He was airlifted to Southwest Regional Medical Center in McComb, treated and released. No arrest has been made yet. And the investigation continues. 

Eric Chisholm, Judge Carmen Drake

Woodville police charged Eric Chisholm with the shooting murder of Henry Dyer in May 2024. Now a Wilkinson County jury has found Chisholm guilty of second-degree murder, tampering with evidence and possession of a weapon by convicted felon. The jury could not agree on a sentence. So Judge Carmen Drake sentenced him to 40 years for the murder and 10 years each on the other two charges. The terms will be served consecutively, and he will serve 60 years.   

John B. Sanders, 32, of Natchez was arrested by Adams deputies for failure to register as a sex offender. He was convicted of raping a 14-year old-girl in 2014. Failure to register is a felony punishable by 1 to 5 years in jail. Sanders is being held in jail. Judge Danny Barber set bond at $30,000.

Centreville Academy has renamed its football stadium after legendary Coach Bill Hurst. He has coached 49 years and accumulated a record of 453-156. As the stadium was renamed Bill Hurst Stadium, dozens of well wishers gathered around him, including many of his players from years gone by. Hurst has had nine championships squads,

Ferriday woman killed

Rozaven Thompson, 35, of Clayton, was allegedly intoxicated while driving on U.S. Hwy. 84, near Nations Road, crossed the center line and hit an oncoming vehicle. He was injured and his passenger, Lekita Mehta, 39, of Ferriday, was killed. Both were not wearing seatbelts. Thompson was charged with DUI. Additional charges are pending.

Mississippi reading and math scores for 4th graders are now above the national averages. However, the results for Adams, Jefferson and Wilkinson remain way below the state averages, with student skills about two grades below what is expected. While the state is advancing, our local schools are falling further behind.   

The Natchez Chili Cook Off brought out several hundred samplers and many teams to compete. Red Hot Chili Peppers won the People’s Choice competition for the best chili. The annual event is sponsored by the Natchez Rotary Club to benefit Natchez Children’s Services and was held on the Bluff across from the Natchez Grand Hotel.

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