Local News 

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

Lower millage

Vidalia aldermen set their millage at 3.2 mills, the lowest rate in the region. Vidalia and Concordia Parish have some of the lowest millage rates in the state.   

The Mississippi Department of Employment Security reported that January employment in Adams County dropped to 9,059 workers, a huge decline from December. The jobless rate rose to 5.6 percent.

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said, "The notice to proceed for the final phase of the Morgantown Road project is set for April 22, with work expected to begin shortly thereafter. This long-anticipated project represents another step toward improving infrastructure and connectivity for our community. Thank you for your continued patience and support as we work to get it done right."   

Vidalia aldermen heard from one citizen who supports the feeding of the riverfront’s feral cats by volunteers. Supporters say they are helping the cats by feeding them, offering adoptions and occasionally neutering some of the animals. The city has been reluctant to use its authority to stop the feeding or clean up the dirty areas. Aldermen are afraid the “cat vote” will come out against them, if the town cleans up its feral cat problem.   

Ferriday bingo

The Ferriday Town Council plans to authorize bingo as part of its downtown entertainment district.  The Council wantsto build more traffic into downtown for revitalization.

Natchez aldermen met April 14 and put a hold on converting some tennis courts to pickleball courts at Duncan Park. Aldermen originally gave their tentative approval to the idea of doing more pickleball, since the sport has become more popular than tennis. Aldermen have now asked rec director Ryan Porter to double check with high school tennis teams to make sure the change would not degrade their ability to host tennis tournaments. Porter has said that the growth of pickleball requires more courts and would be a best use of the space. The local pickleball association has even pledged to pay some of the costs of conversion. 

Adams deputies arrested James Munroe, 68, of Natchez, for felony malicious mischief, with damages between $1000 and $5000. He is currently being held in jail.

Natchez aldermen appointed Jimmy Miller to a vacancy on the Natchez Preservation Commission. 

Adams deputies arrested Jayden C . Branning, 18, of Ruth, Mississippi, for two counts of taking away a motor vehicle, a felony. His bond was set at $50,000. 

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Greg Brooking and staff

Natchez golf course manager Greg Brooking asked aldermen to raise green fees by $1. He wanted golf cart fees to increase by $5. Brooking also believes the new clubhouse should rent for $500 an event instead of $250, since it has been remodeled. Aldermen agreed and passed a motion to adopt his recommendations. Brooking said the Miss. Golf Association is sponsoring its state championship tournament in Natchez the weekend of April 17-19. 

Natchez aldermen met April 14 and put a hold on converting some tennis courts to pickleball courts at Duncan Park. Aldermen originally gave their tentative approval to the idea of doing more pickleball, since the sport has become more popular than tennis. Aldermen have now asked rec director Ryan Porter to double check with high school tennis teams to make sure the change would not degrade their ability to host tennis tournaments. Porter has said that the growth of pickleball requires more courts and would be a best use of the space. The local pickleball association has even pledged to pay some of the costs of conversion.   

Alderman Billie Joe Frazier raised the issue as to why Hope Enterprises keeps getting the award of the city bids. Both the mayor and city clerk went over the sealed bid process and said they are soliciting as many contractors as possible. But just a few actually submit bids. Hope keeps submitting the lowest bids, so it keeps getting awards.

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WE HAVE TWO LOCATIONS -- EAGLE PAWN SHOPS: 481 John R. Junkin Dr., Natchez and 1624 Carter St., Vidalia. Trusted gold and bullion dealer!  www.eaglepawnshops.com. Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat. 9-1, Finley Hootsell, owner.

Jerome Timmons

Jerome Timmons was sworn in yesterday as the Natchez Police Department’s Commander of Patrol. He joins Shane Daughtery and Felesha Fleming as top cops under Chief Lee Best.

On April 13, a 911 call reported a fire in the area of 35 Shieldsboro Road in Natchez. Emergency personnel observed an active fire involving debris and materials in an open area near the reported location. Natchez firefighters worked to contain and extinguish multiple burning areas, which were producing heavy smoke and visible flames and required coordinated efforts to bring it under control and prevent further spread. There were no reported injuries.

Wilkinson County has been added to the list of counties that can receive public assistance grants to cities and counties that suffered damages during the January ice storm. The FEMA grants pay for debris removal and repair to public facilities. In addition to Wilkinson, towns and counties in Adams, Jefferson and Claiborne counties are included. But Franklin and Amite are not included. 38 counties are included in the update.

Natchez fire

On April 12, at approximately 8:17 p.m., Natchez firemen went to a residential structure fire at 112 Mimosa Drive in Natchez. Deputies arrived on scene at approximately 8:24 p.m. Emergency personnel observed smoke coming from the rear portion of the residence. Fire units arrived. According to initial reports, the fire appeared to have originated in the back area of the home. Firefighters worked to contain the damage, which was primarily limited to one section of the residence. The interior sustained visible fire, smoke, and heat damage, particularly in the living area and adjoining portions of the home. Utility companies, including Entergy and Atmos Energy, responded to the scene to assist with securing the residence and ensuring there were no additional hazards. One individual was transported by AMR to a local hospital for evaluation due to the effects of smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time.   

Adams deputies arrested Christopher P. Surrena, 42, of Natchez, for aggravated domestic assault for beating his wife. He remains in jail. In 2017, deputies arrested him for shooting at his wife and beating her with a baseball bat, breaking her arm.

Vidalia Police Chief Joey Merrill said one of his officers, Daniel Lloyd, submitted his resignation immediately after an auto accident. Lloyd was arrested by La. State Police for DUI at the scene of the accident.

Volunteers have organized a Autism Awareness and Acceptance Walk for Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m. on the Natchez Bluff.

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.See our Facebook page. ttps://www.facebook.com/VidaliaLouisianaPoliceDepartment.

Leah Hunter

The Downtown Natchez Alliance (DNA) announces a leadership change as Executive Director Leah Hunter resigns as of April 9, after one year on the job. The DNA has not announced her replacement. DNA officers are: President, Elizabeth Greer; Vice President, T.J. Baggett; Treasurer, Kassie Dollar; and Secretary, Lori Alles.

Adams deputies are looking for now Roosevelt Johnson, 19, to turn himself in. Deputies say he took part in a shoting in Broadnmoor subdivision on Friday, April, Johnson currently has active warrants for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and shooting into a motor vehicle. Johnson is considered armed and dangerous

On April 9, at approximately 3:00 PM, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting shots fired in the area of MLK Street and Broadmoor Drive, near Broadmoor Grocery. Initial reports indicated that a Black male suspect wearing a black hoodie and blue jeans discharged multiple rounds while traveling through the area. Witness information suggested the suspect fled on foot before entering a vehicle and leaving the scene, possibly accompanied by another individual. During the course of the incident, it was reported that one individual may have been struck by gunfire. That individual was transported to a local hospital by a private vehicle prior to law enforcement arrival. Deputies and assisting agencies quickly coordinated a response, locating and stopping a vehicle matching the description provided. Through investigative efforts, two suspects have been taken into custody in connection with this incident. Preliminary information indicates multiple firearms may have been involved. Several weapons have been recovered, and further forensic analysis is underway. At this time, this remains an active and ongoing investigation. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, conduct interviews, and determine the full sequence of events, including the roles of all individuals involved.

680 Highway 61  North, Natchez, 601-445-5912.  www.natchezmonument.com

Dusty Lahley, Austin Lee Cain

On April 9, at approximately 3:00 PM, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting shots fired in the area of MLK Street and Broadmoor Drive, near Broadmoor Grocery. Initial reports indicated that a Black male suspect wearing a black hoodie and blue jeans discharged multiple rounds while traveling through the area. Witness information suggested the suspect fled on foot before entering a vehicle and leaving the scene, possibly accompanied by another individual. During the course of the incident, it was reported that one individual may have been struck by gunfire. That individual was transported to a local hospital by a private vehicle prior to law enforcement arrival. Deputies and assisting agencies quickly coordinated a response, locating and stopping a vehicle matching the description provided. Through investigative efforts, two suspects have been taken into custody in connection with this incident. Preliminary information indicates multiple firearms may have been involved. Several weapons have been recovered, and further forensic analysis is underway. At this time, this remains an active and ongoing investigation. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, conduct interviews, and determine the full sequence of events, including the roles of all individuals involved.

Two arrests were made in Concordia Parish after a multi-agency operation in February identified adults attempting to meet minors for sexual purposes. CPSO's Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction Investigators, along with the Louisiana State Police, the Mississippi Attorney General's Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation from Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana, conducted a two-day operation to identify adults soliciting children online. The primary goal of the operation was to protect juveniles from sexual exploitation online and in person. Sheriff David Hedrick would like to thank all of the agencies participating in the operation for their partnership and efforts to keep children in Concordia Parish and across the nation safe. Hedrick said, "We are proud to be a member of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and will continue to do everything within our power to protect the innocence of the children in our parish and throughout the state of Louisiana." Arrested were Dusty Lashley, 43, of Winnsboro, for Indecent Behavior with Juvenile(s), Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor and Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile (Attempt). Lashley has an arraignment date set for May 6th and is currently out on a $30,000 bond. Also charged was Austin Lee Cain, 26, of Vidalia, for Indecent Behavior with Juvenile(s), Computer-Aided, Solicitation of a Minor and Possession of Schedule II Drugs. Cain was previously arrested in October 2025 and charged with Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile (Attempt), Indecent Behavior with Juvenile(s), and Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor. He remains in custody at the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility on a $300,000 bond.

Natchez Police Chief Lee Best wants Shane Daughtery to be his Operations Commander and Felesha Fleming to be his Investigations Commander. Normally, aldermen would be expected to approve the appointments and salaries. However, the two new commanders will be sworn into their positions before the aldermen next meet. Daughtery has been serving as Chief Deputy for the sheriff’s office. Fleming has been serving as administrator for Judge Carmen Drake and previously served as a police investigator.

The Miss-Lou Relay for Life has been an annual event since 1995. Last year, it raised $36,000. But there will not be a relay this year, as volunteers want to reorganize the program. Denise Davis said the event will be moved to the first Saturday March in 2027 to coordinate with the Cruising for a Cure Car Show.   

6831 U.S. Hwy. 61, Suite A, Urgent Care, (Formerly Ricky's Lounge), St. Francisville, 225-635-0028

James Clark III, Alex Griffin Jr.

The Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office was notified on March 27 that a burglary occurred at the Dollar General Store, located at 187 Main St. in Clayton. According to responding deputies, the electricity was cut off from outside the building, and suspects entered by breaking the glass in the front door. It was reported that cash, cigarettes, and other tobacco products were stolen during the burglary. CPSO’s Criminal Investigations Division began investigating the case. Two suspects were identified as Alex Lee Griffin, Jr., who lives on Bingham Street in Clayton, and James Stamps Clark, III, who lives on Ralphs Road in Vidalia. On March 22, Clark was transported to Trinity Medical for medical assessment, and while at the hospital, he physically attacked a healthcare worker. At that time, he was arrested and booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility and charged with Battery of a Healthcare Professional and Simple Burglary. On March 27, the CID obtained a search warrant for Griffin’s home on Bingham Street in Clayton, LA, along with an arrest affidavit for Burglary of a Business and Criminal Conspiracy. On the same day, during the search, Griffin fled on foot toward the back of the house but was stopped by deputies. A small, clean .22 revolver with obliterated serial numbers was found loaded on the ground near where Griffin was detained. Griffin was arrested and booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility and charged with Burglary of a Business, Criminal Conspiracy, and two outstanding Bench Warrants. During the search, authorities found a plastic garbage bag containing 13 lbs. 9 oz. of synthetic marijuana hidden in the woods behind the house, along with two clean, un-rusted .22 rifles, a plastic bag containing 38.6 grams of synthetic marijuana, and unopened tobacco products. The tobacco products are believed to have been stolen from the burglary under investigation. On March 30, Griffin was rebooked on the following charges: Possession of Schedule I Drugs with Intent to Distribute, Resisting an Officer, Possession of a Firearm with CDS, and Possession of or Dealing in Firearms with Obliterated Number or Mark. Sheriff Hedrick would like to thank the Clayton Police Department for their assistance in this case. Arrested were James Stamps Clark III, 29, for Simple Burglary and Battery of a Healthcare Professional; and Alex Lee Griffin, Jr., 24, Burglary of a Business, Criminal Conspiracy, Bench Warrant, Failure to Appear, Bench Warrant, Failure to Pay Fines, Possession of Schedule I Drugs with Intent to Distribute, Resisting an Officer and Possession of a Firearm with CDS.

The Town of Bude and Bude Community Foundation team up once again to host the Fourth Annual Earth Day Clean Up Day on Saturday, April 25. The event will run from 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. with two locations this year to drop off trash and items. Drop off potions will be the Bude Community Foundation Center, located at 270 Main Street N. in Bude, and Bude City Hall, located at Railroad Avenue in Bude. The event is also being sponsored by Franklin County Solid Waste. All Bude residents who schedule a pick up and have items removed will receive a gift card and will be eligible for a drawing for one grand prize of $500. The annual event is hosted in an effort to clean up the Town of Bude of old appliances, tires and general trash and litter. Everyone is encouraged to pick up and clean their area during the day. Volunteers are also welcome. For more information, call the Bude Community Foundation at 601-384- 2008.

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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Tougher standards

The Mississippi Department of Education reminded communities across the state that the new, higher standards for earning school and district letter grades take effect with the 2025-2026 school year. Accountability grades will be released in Fall 2026 and will reflect the new baseline for measuring school and district performance. Because of that, MDE officials have said that grades for 2025-2026 cannot be compared to previous years. As a result of the higher standards for each grade, many schools and districts may receive a lower letter grade than they earned in 2024-2025, even if students performed at the same or better on state assessments year over year.   

Franklin County will be receiving funding from state appropriations after the recent legislative session in Jackson concluded last week. Scenic Rivers Development District was awarded $1.75 million for site development of the Okhissa Lake Lodge and Resort project being developed. The Town of Bude will see $200,000 from the state for the purchase of police department vehicles, cameras and equipment. Franklin County learned it will receive $500,000 for improvements on Murray Road along with $250,000 for infrastructure improvements.   

Woodville aldermen listened to sales representatives from Badger Meters that the town should consider purchasing digital water meters at $420 each. The digital meters are much more accurate. Aldermen listened attentively, but since the town pays only $130 for a new analog meters, it’s unlikely that they will purchase new digital meters. The town is hard pressed for cash.

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Lee Coats

Wilkinson County Interim School Supt. Lee Coats continues to hold school board meetings for the public, even though there is no school board. As the state appointed representative to run the school district, Coats continues to announce appointments, policies, and approve spending. The school board and the former superintendent were removed from their positions by the state for malfeasance and failure to to follow state law. Coats will probably remain superintendent for a year or two, until the state feels the district is back on track.   

A pre-trial conference is set for June 24 in Seventh District Court for Ferriday Dist. 1 Justice of the Peace Michael James Kelly. Kelly was arrested in October for malfeasance in office and theft of under$1,000 after he allegedly collected monies from customers of Pay Less Loans in Jonesville and failed to give the money to the company. In a separate case, Kelly is charged with malfeasance in office and theft of between $1000 and $5,000. In 2017, he was a constable and was arrested for simple criminal damage to property, three counts resisting an officer with force, 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.

The Natchez Chamber of Commerce Annual Pickleball Tournament will be April 9, starting at 5 p.m. at the Duncan Park pickleball courts. The entry fee is $50. and players are guaranteed at least two matches. Divisions include women's, men's and mixed doubles, with skill levels ranging from 3.0 to 4.0. Entries close at 4 p.m. due to limited space.

ROGERS LAWN & GARDEN EQUIPMENT: Sales, Service, Parts. The ROGERS FAMILY continues their tradition of offering the best equipment and service at fair prices. EXMARK, STIHL, HUSQVARNA. See our line-up of 2026 EXMARK RIDING MOWERS for the backyard, small or medium sized acreage, and pro models for commercial landscaping services. Our Quest, Radius and Lazer Series are Miss-Lou favorites, with ZERO TURN RIDERS, stand-on, walk-behind and electric models all engineered for durability, long life, ease of maintenance and repair. 

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Kalandra Lloyd

Kalandra Lloyd, principal at Vidalia Lower Elementary, has been named a finalist for Principal of the Year by the Louisiana Department of Education.

Adams deputies arrested Karlas Gales, 46, of Natchez, for felony domestic assault. Judge Danny Barber set bond at $75,000. Deputies arrested Mantreal West, 29, of Natchez, for felony domestic assault. Barber also set bond for West at $75,000.

On April 5, at approximately 5:02 a.m., deputies with the Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported assault at the Noble House Apartments located at 576 Lower Woodville Road, in Natchez. Upon arrival, deputies made contact with the victim, who reported that her boyfriend, Danterrius Deonte Antonio Jones, 22, had physically assaulted her by striking her multiple times in the face with a firearm. The victim sustained visible injuries and reported that the suspect then took her vehicle keys and fled the scene in her 2014 Dodge Charger. A short time later, deputies located the vehicle and suspect in the parking lot of Jaroc’s. During the investigation, deputies recovered a Smith & Wesson SD40VE .40 caliber handgun from inside the vehicle. The firearm was found to be loaded. Jones was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Adams County Jail. He has been charged with: Aggravated Domestic Assault and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. The victim was provided assistance in recovering her vehicle and was advised of available resources. Evidence collected during the investigation has been secured. Previously charged and out on bond for burglary. Judge Danny Barber set Jones’s bond at $225,000, for the aggravated assault, possession of a weapon by felon, Jones's history and likelihood to reoffend as a danger to the community.

NATCHEZ WATER WORKS: Online Bill Payments -- We accept payments online at www.natchezwaterworks.com. Bill Payment Portal: Payment types accepted through online bill pay are Visa, Mastercard, Discover and Electronic Checks. Have your customer number handy. Other Means: Phone payment at 601-864-1725. Payment by mail. Automatic bank draft. Payment at our Main Office. Our after-hours drop-box at the Main Office. Payment through financial institution online bill pay. Main Office: 150 N. Shields Ln., 601-445-5521. Committed to Providing Safe, Clean Water for All Our Residents

Zachary Jackson

Sheriff Travis Patten issued a press statement. "The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is providing an updated status regarding the homicide investigation that originated on April 4 from a welfare check on Melanie Road in Natchez. Investigators have formally charged Zachary Lavel Jackson, Jr., 29, in connection with this case. He is currently in custody at the Adams County Jail. Jackson has been charged with the following offenses: Murder (First and Second Degree), Mayhem and Tampering with Physical Evidence. The victim in this case has been identified as retired educator Lana Brown Bradley. Through the course of the investigation, it has been determined that the suspect is related to the victim’s family. This case began as a welfare concern but quickly escalated into a missing person investigation and ultimately a homicide. Through rapid response and coordinated investigative efforts, deputies and investigators were able to identify the severity of the situation, secure the scene, develop critical information, and take the suspect into custody within approximately 24 hours of the initial call. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend sincere appreciation to the agencies and community partners who played a critical role in this investigation. We thank the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) and their Crime Scene Team for their expertise in processing the scene and assisting with investigative efforts. Due to the complex and heinous nature of this crime, additional support was required beyond traditional law enforcement resources. We would also like to recognize Natchez Heating and Cooling, Adams County Water Works, and the Adams County Coroner’s Office for stepping outside of their normal scope of duties to assist when called upon. Their cooperation and professionalism were instrumental during this investigation. Additionally, we acknowledge the civilians who provided assistance and information that contributed to the swift progression of this case." Judge Danny Barber felt Jackson was a risk to trhe community and denied bond.

Adams deputies arrested Danterrius Jones, 22, of Natchez, for felon in possession of a weapon and aggravated domestic assault. He remains in jail. He was out on bond for burglary when arrested.

Recent Catahoula SO felony arrests included: Tabitha Lane Creel, 43, Jonesville, Domestic Abuse Battery; David James, 49, Jonesville, Aggravated Assault, Threatening a Public Official; Amos W. Fritz, 65, Jena, Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Lana Brown Bradley

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is providing an update regarding the ongoing homicide investigation that originated from a welfare check on Melanie Road on April 4. Investigators have positively identified the victim as retired educator Lana Brown Bradley, a longtime and respected member of the Adams County community. Bradley was widely known and deeply valued, and her loss has had a profound impact across our community. This case has been confirmed as a homicide. Due to the nature of the investigation, details regarding the condition of the victim are being withheld out of respect for the family and the integrity of the case. A person previously identified as a person of interest has now been elevated to a suspect and remains in custody at the Adams County Sheriff’s Office as investigators continue to actively work this case. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is leading this investigation, with assistance from the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation. Sheriff Travis Patten issued the following statement: “In my entire career, this is one of the most difficult and heartbreaking cases I have encountered. Our hearts are with the family of Ms. Bradley, and we are committed to pursuing justice on their behalf.” This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office asks that the public keep the victim’s family in their thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

The Natchez Concours D'Elegance car show will be April 9-11 in front of the Grand Hotel along Broadway. This European Car Show features Rolls-Royce and Bentley cars, with all British and European cars over 20 years old. All ages of European exotic cars and all CCA eligible cars will be showcased. There's a special interest class for very rare or interesting cars. The show is limited to 100 entries. Entry is free for all eligible cars.  For more info, call Richard Branyan at 601-807-4081, richard@branyan.org or https://natchezconcours.com.

Rob Gray, spokesperson for Living History Natchez, said his new tour agency had a successful spring tour season. The group started off small with just two weekends of events in March but managed to net 1300 visitor tickets sold. Gray said his homeowners will expand their offerings in the future. The Pilgrimage Garden Club Spring Pilgrimage runs through April 15. And the Natchez Garden Club’s Spring Pilgrimage runs through April 18. Natchez continues to be very reliant on tourism for its economy. The community doesn’t get as many tourists as it did 30 years ago. Living History’s homeowners broke away from the two established clubs, hoping to improve their visitor count and revenues. The two major clubs have been under some financial stress in recent years, as tourism numbers and revenues dropped. The Pilgrimage and Natchez Garden Clubs used to run their tour seasons together, but now they’ve separated their efforts due to political and management differences and declining revenues.

Accounting problems

The 2024 Natchez CPA Audit shows city under financial stress, with overspending, deficits, more bank overdrafts and serious bookkeeping and accounting. Details include: 2024 Natchez Governmental funds showed $27.2 million in revenues, $37.3 million in expenses and a $10.1 million deficit Construction projects and grant funds received and spent contributed to the stated amount of the 2024 deficit. As many projects are underway or soon to come, it's difficult to tell how much overspending has actually occurred. But the city's governmental fund deficit can only be reduced by increasing taxes, reducing spending less or both. City had a generous ending fund balance of $14 million, some of which are restricted funds and cannot be used to pay normal monthly expenses. How much of that money is unrestricted was not stated. General Condition: The mayor and aldermen have embarked on a multi-year campaign to improve facilities and infrastructure, financed by federal and state grants and state appropriations, borrowing millions of dollars to be paid back over the next generation. The city has inadequate property sales tax and property tax and other revenues to fund this expansion and pay for regular operating costs as well, such as police, fire and public works, and other departments within the city. Specific 2024 Problems: Bank overdrafts $836,000; $3.8 million in current and past due accounts payables, $21.7 million in debt. $2 million paid in principal and interest, including $682,000 in interest. Principal and interest payments rising to $2.5 million in 2025. Payroll costs are up 16 percent. State Retirement costs up 40 percent. Mayor, city and aldermen do not keep monthly tallies of revenues, expenses, cash flow, balances. As a result, they have no idea where they stand financially. As this audit reflects 2024 activity, and the city is in fiscal year 2026, they are completely in the dark as to their current financial picture. The City Clerk's Office is incompetently staffed and managed. The bookkeeping and accounting is inadequate, according to both the City and the CPA. Gillon Findings: 1. Bank reconciliations: Bank reconciliations and ledger postings are not done monthly or properly and errors are not found and corrections are not properly entered and documented. The CPA says the city clerk's office should employ 4 persons minimum. The City says it will hire an in-house accountant to help. 2. Error-filled accounting: When the City initially presented the year-end books and records for audit, it was immediately evident those books and records were not ready. The CPA noted material debit balances were improperly placed in revenue accounts, interfund accounts were not in balance or properly stated, and the general ledger was replete with improper journal entries and reversals. Revenues subject to the millage were not being tracked in the correct accounts, revenues went unrecorded, and further incorrect fund types being used for certain activities. The City said a now dismissed employee was purposely subverting proper bookkeeping. And it is hiring a new in-house accountant. 3. Timely: The City's audit was not filed timely by June 30, 2025. The city says it will file timely in the future. https://www.osa.ms.gov/.../reports/24m2024%20Natchez-cpa.pdf

Louisiana wildlife agents, Concordia deputies, Vidalia police and Adams deputies performed rescue operations April 3, after a man jumped off the Mississippi River Bridge. Authorities tried to rescue him. He became combative and resisted rescue and then went under. The search continues. He has not been found.

Jury audit

The Catahoula Parish Police Jury is behind in its audit. Its last audit submitted to the state was in 2023. That means it is past due on its 2024 audit and the 2025 audit is now due. In the jury's 2023 report, total revenues were $5,215,000, most of which came from property and sales taxes. It spent $5,985,000, with a deficit of $770,000. It used existing cash balances to fund the deficit, with total year end fund balances at $6,874,000. in the 2023 audit, Bosch and Statham CPAs noted some exceptions (major or minor problems) and improvements that should be made.  1. The Information Technology Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity Plan should include storage of backups in a separate physical location isolated from the network, use of antivirus software on all systems, timely application of all available system and software patches/updates, and identification of personnel, processes, and tools needed to recover operations after a critical event. 2. A few bank reconciliations appear not to have been done on a timely basis. But the jury said the reconciliation sheets were not properly dated when done. 3. Disbursements did not always show "segregation of duties" by personnel. That means multiple people should be involved in authorizing and issuing the payment of payables to protect the jury from fraud or theft. 4. The jury had problems with providing documentation for fuel purchases. Fuel purchases should be accompanied by receipts and statements as to why the purchase was necessary for jury business purposes. Proper documentation limits the chance for theft of fuel for personal use. 5. In two instances of travel reimbursements paid, proper documentation was not submitted. The forms submitted should include who is traveling and for what reason. In another instance, no written approval for travel was submitted by a person other than the traveler himself. 6. The jury underpaid a terminated employee. 7. Some employees have not received sexual harassment training as required by state.

Vidalia police led rescue operations Friday, after a man jumped off the Mississippi River Bridge. Neither he nor his body have been found.   

Mayor Dan Gibson said Natchez has received an appropriation of $500,000 to assist with the replacement of Canal Street Bridge. The city also received an appropriation of $500,000 to help complete our project to light the Mississippi River Bridges. That makes $2.5 million raised for the Canal Street Bridge project. GHibson hopes some Federal funds will be secured for the work. To date, $1 million that the State of Mississippi has appropriated for the bridge lighting project. Natchez needs another $200,000 to complete it. Gibson believes Louisiana may help.

Catahoula arrests

The Catahoula Parish Narcotics Task Force continues to target drug activity along our highways and recent  efforts have led to three separate traffic stops and the arrest of Jessica Rollins, Terrance Girod, and Tina Delatte. During these interdictions, the Task Force seized: 17.5 grams of methamphetamine, 186 dosage units of Schedule IV narcotics, 30 dosage units of a legend drug and $671 in U.S. currency. Multiple items of drug paraphernalia, including syringes, smoking devices, packaging materials, and  digital scales. All three subjects were taken into custody without incident and are facing multiple drug-related charges. These cases are a direct result of proactive highway interdiction efforts aimed at stopping illegal narcotics before they make it into our communities. The Narcotics Task Force remains committed to aggressively pursuing those involved in the distribution and use of illegal drugs. Cases remain under investigation, and additional charges may be pending. Those charged: Jessica Rollins-Possession of Schedule II Drugs w/Intent to Distribute, BOND-$45,000.00; Terrance Girod-Turning Movements and Required Signals, Open Container, Possession of Schedule II Drug w/Intent to Distribute, Distribution of Schedule IV Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Legend Drug without Prescription, Driving Under Suspension, BOND-$102,500.00; and Tina Delatte-Possession of Schedule II Drug w/Intent to Distribute, Possession of CDS in Presence of a Minor, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Improper Equipment, Driving Under Suspension, BOND-$47,100.00.

Catahoula Homeland Security Director Ellis Boothe pleaded no contest to battery and misuse of a moveable (phone) after he assaulted a man who was video recording in the courthouse in August. Boothe received 20 hours of community service and was assessed court costs. No fine was levied.

Police Commander Lee Best has been sworn in as Natchez Police Chief. He will earn $87,000 a year. Outgoing Chief Cal Green is retiring.

Charles Michael Nettles

On April 1, at approximately 6:20 a.m., deputies with the Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to a disturbance at 109B Kaiser Lake Road. Upon arrival, deputies quickly assessed the situation and began gathering information from those involved. The investigation revealed that Charles Michael Nettles, 32, unlawfully entered the residence by forcing entry through the back door. Once inside, Nettles armed himself with a knife from the kitchen and threatened an occupant inside the residence, attempting to approach her with the weapon. The victim was able to secure herself in a bedroom and contact the homeowner. When the 67-year-old homeowner returned to the residence, he encountered Nettles inside the home. A confrontation occurred, during which Nettles attacked the homeowner, choking him and causing visible injuries, including cuts and bruising. Through swift coordination and thorough investigative work, deputies were able to rapidly bring this case to a resolution. Nettles was taken into custody and charged with: Home Invasion and Aggravated Assault (2 counts). Sheriff Travis Patten commended the deputies and investigators involved for their professionalism, urgency, and attention to detail. Further investigation revealed that Nettles has an active felony bond jumping warrant out of Tulsa, Oklahoma, which has been confirmed with the Tulsa Police Department. At this time, Tulsa authorities have advised they will not seek extradition. Judge Danny Barber set bond at $500,000.

According to the CPA audit filed with the state, "Andy" Anders, the Concordia Parish Clerk of Court had 2025 office revenues of $828,087 and expenses of $826,990. Both revenues and expenses were not close to budget, so the Clerk should have revised his budget before the end of the fiscal year to be in compliance. There were no negative findings stated. Anders received $160,000 in salary, benefits, travel and association dues for the year. Gillon, Christian and Mosby performed the audit.

The Warren County Sheriff’s Office and the Vicksburg Police Department were involved in the pursuit of a Dodge Challenger on Interstate 20 in Mississippi. The vehicle, carrying three occupants, included an individual who was connected to a homicide investigation. The pursuit continued into Louisiana, where the vehicle came to a stop in Delta, and the occupants fled on foot. Troopers from LSP Troop F and Deputies from the Madison Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene to assist in the search efforts. Through coordinated efforts, Troopers and Deputies located the abandoned vehicle and apprehended all three suspects. Rashad McCroy, 22, of Vicksburg, a passenger, was arrested on charges related to homicide and a drive-by shooting warrant. Jaleel Fleming, 21, of Natchez, who was driving, faced charges for flight and various narcotics offenses. Keyonica Hatchett, 19, of Vicksburg, a passenger, was charged as a principal to flight. All individuals were processed into the Madison Parish Jail without incident. 

Jeremy Truiitt

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office was requesting the public’s assistance in locating Robert Jeremy Truitt, 34, as a welfare concern. He was found safe.

A bill has passed the Mississippi Legislature to name the Liberty Rd. Bridge in Natchez after the late Mayor Larry L. “Butch” Brown. 

On March 21, the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office received a call reporting that an adult was involved in inappropriate conduct with a vulnerable juvenile.  Thanks to the quick actions of an older juvenile who witnessed the incident, 911 was contacted. However, the suspect, identified as Green, fled the scene before law enforcement arrived. Deputies began searching for Green, who was located and arrested on March 23. He has been charged with indecent behavior with juveniles and is currently held at the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility, where he is awaiting bond. Arrested was Gary Shavel Green, 44, of Vidalia, for indecent behavior with a juvenile. 

Expect short delays and lane closures when driving on Homochitto St. in Natchez. The contractor has started repaving the roadway.

Don Owens, Cameron Jones, Becky Brown

Don Owens was shot and killed in Natchez in 2018. No one has been successfully tried for the crime. An initial trial for conspiracy to murder resulted in a mistrial for the defendants interfering with the jury.Other people in additopnmal to the killers may have participated in the crime. If you have info on his murder, call Adams deputies at 601-442-2752. Cameron Jones and Becky Brown were shot and killed in Adams County in 2020. No one has been arrested yet for their murders. If you have info on these killings, call Adams deputies at 601-442-2752. Deputies accept anonymous tips.

The Mississippi Humanities Council honored Tony Gordon, assistant professor of music and university organist at Alcorn State University, as the institution’s 2026 Humanities Teacher Award recipient at its humanities awards ceremony in Jackson. Gordon, a Natchez, native, has served at Alcorn State for 39 years. His dual role as assistant professor and university organist has evolved from fulfilling teaching duties to shaping the university’s music program.

Vidalia Police Department received a “swatting” call March 31 at a residence in the Orchards. A hoax caller stated he accidentally shot his mother. The caller also stated there was a fire in the house and he was going to shoot himself. Vidalia officers, SWAT team members along with Concordia Parish SO deputies and members of the Narcotics Taskforce responded to this call. The homeowner nor anyone else inside the residence was hurt. Fake calls not only tie up law enforcement resources, they frighten innocent people and cause alarm and panic for the residents in the area. VPD said it will work to find those associated with making this call and arrest all arrest associated with it.

Zandra McDonald

The Natchez-Adams School District did not release financial details to the public that the district had a negative fund balance of $1.4 million in maintenance. Despite having revenues over $80 million, the district overspent by at $1.4 million. The State Department of Audit found about the malfeasance as did the State Department of Education. The lack of oversight on spending was substantial enough to allow multiple persons to spend the entire maintenance budget plus another $1.4 million that was not budgeted. the state put the district on probation in October and sent Supt. Zandra McDonald notice that a spending freeze should be imposed; all purchases should be approved by the superintendent or the business manager; the district should reduce future spending, as well as reduce the issuance of new contracts that would deplete cash balances.

The Future Farmers of America program in Franklin County is hosting a Cow Patty Bingo event in order to raise funds to travel to the State FFA Convention this summer in Starkville. A total of 100 squares will be placed on a grid, and patrons can choose a number between 1 and 100, with squares purchased on a first-come, first-serve basis. Each square will represent one chance to win a top prize of $500. A cow will be released into the field with the grid on it. Whichever square the patty lands in will be declared the winner. Cost is $20 per square, and the winner does not have to be present in order to win. The fundraiser will remain open until all of the squares have been purchased. Tickets can be purchased at the FCCTC. 

Adams deputies arrested Tania Woods, 26, of Natchez, for a felony, malicious mischief, with value of damages done between $1000 and $5000. She’s being held in jail.

Fishing rodeo

The Annual Youth Fishing Rodeo will take place starting at 7 a.m. on Saturday, April 18 at Clear Springs Recreation Area in Meadville. Registration will begin at 7 a.m., with the actual fishing event starting around 9 a.m. Hosted by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, youth fishing rodeos are conducted around the state during the spring. These events are free. Events feature educational activities focusing on fish, fishing and environmental concerns. These quality fishing experiences are provided in a controlled and safe environment. Rodeo ponds are well stocked with channel catfish.

The Natchez School District was placed on probation by the state in October but the superintendent Zandra McDonald never announced the “negative” news and sanction, as she and her district had three past due audits. While at least 65 districts in the state have already turned in their 2025 audits, Natchez was several years behind. The district has still not said publicly how many audits it now owes the state. There are 137 school districts in the state. About 20 are in the same predicament as Natchez, failure to file audits. Most are small rural districts with limited resources and bad management. Natchez is well funded and should have found a CPA firm but allowed three years of audits to become past due.

A historic marker dedication ceremony for Prince Abdul Ibrahima will be held April 8 at 11:30 at Natchez Under the Hill near the landing dock. Ibrahima was a Muslim prince from Timbo in the Futa Jallon region of present-day Guinea, West Africa. He was captured in battle in 1788 and sold into the transatlantic slave trade. He spent 40 years enslaved on Thomas Foster’s plantation near Natchez before gaining his freedom in 1828 with the help of Andrew Marschalk, the “Father of Mississippi Journalism,” and U.S. Secretary of State Henry Clay in President John Quincy Adams’ administration. The program will include Music from Tony Fields, soloist and minister of music at Zion Chapel A.M.E. Church. Guest speaker will be Shelia Byrd, Deputy Director of the Programs and Communication Division of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, and a student presentations will feature a reading excerpt from "Prince Among Slaves," read by Ainsley Dupre and Halle Stamps of Natchez High.

NPS visitor center delays

When Natchez built its visitors center near the Miss. River bridges in 1998, it filled a massive and deep bayou with rip rap and fill before leveling the dirt and beginning construction. Officials were warned that the fill dirt needed to be compacted and settled before building began. The city was anxious to complete the project and started construction as soon as dozers finished leveling the fill. The contractors were told to build right away. Now that the National Park Service owns the building, Natchez Superintendent Kathleen Bond says workers have discovered cracks and fissures in the building. So NPS must stop some of its current repair work to determine what exactly should be done to make major structural repairs and how much it will cost to make those repairs. The delay could mean the center may reopen a year or two later than expected. Once the total scope of repairs is determined, NPS must go through its own regional and national approval process for construction and allocation of repair funds, which can be and usually is a very long process. The structural problems come from the settling of the building, which could be from erosion on the site or from the hasty manner in which the bayou was filled and dirt compacted. Fortunately, the city opened its own visitors center at The Depot after the park service closed its visitors center near the bridges for repairs. However, the city has not adequately promoted its new Depot center and many visitors do not know it exists. The Depot is open Tuesday through Saturday, has limited hours on Sunday and is closed Monday. The city designates the Natchez Convention Promotion Commission to manage the Depot and the Visit Natchez campaign. But the Visit Natchez website has buried mention of The Depot deep within its pages instead of prominently displaying it. Natchez’s biggest tourism site remains the National Park’s Melrose.

Vidalia aldermen will open bids April 23 to rehab and repair D.A. Biglane Rd.   

The Mississippi Legislature has appropriated $362,000 to build a Bluff Park near the Depot in Natchez. The city will add another $92,500 in matching funds for the project. The money will be spent on landscaping and hardscaping.

No softball

The Natchez-Adams County Girls Softball League has been operating for close to 50 years. However, this year they do not have enough girls signed up to form a proper number of teams and players per team for the league. The league will provide refunds for those who had already paid for the coming season. Contact Bridget Wactor for a refund 601-597-1419.   

Recent Catahoula Sheriff's Office felony arrests included: Lawahi Angel Nicole Bryant, 24, Ferriday, domestic abuse battery, bond set at $7,500; Zachary Mayes, 44, Jonesville, aggravated assault with a firearm, bond set at $45,000; Joseph Jackson III, 28, Broussard, introduction of drugs into a penal institute, possession of meth with intent to distribute, bond set at $40,000; Jeremy A. Posey, Gilbert, indecent behavior with a juvenile, contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile, computer aided solicitation of a juvenile, bond set at $120,000; Michael T. McCall, 35, Harrisonburg, domestic abuse battery, bond set at $7,500; Jessica T. Rollins, 42, Enterprise, possession of drugs with intent to distribute, bond set at $45,000; Terrance J. Girod, 42, Jonesville, possession of drugs, possession of drug with intent to distribute, open container, no turn signal, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under suspension, possession of legend drug without prescription, bond set at $102,500; and Stormi McCarthy, 46, Jonesville, vehicle theft, driving under suspension, bond set at $41,000.

Paul Dawes, 78, of Natchez, has been arrested by Adams County deputies, for failure to register as a sex offender. He is being held in jail.

Dionntae Dishta

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office announces that one of its most wanted fugitives, Dionntae Dishta, was successfully apprehended on March 26, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana by the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office. Following his arrest, Dishta was charged by the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office with the following offenses: Illegal Carrying of Weapons with Controlled Dangerous Substance, Distribution or Possession with Intent to Distribute (Schedule I),Drug Paraphernalia – Prohibited Acts, Possession of a Firearm or Carrying a Concealed Weapon by a Person Convicted of Certain Felonies, Fugitive Warrant (multiple counts), Criminal Street Gangs and Patterns of Criminal Street Gang Activity. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office has since placed a detainer on Dishta for the following outstanding charges in Adams County: Tampering with Physical Evidence, Trafficking a Controlled Substance, Controlled Substance Violation, Receiving Stolen Property. Sheriff Travis Patten and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office extend their appreciation to the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office for their professionalism and assistance in safely apprehending this individual. “This arrest highlights the importance of strong interagency cooperation. When law enforcement agencies work together, we are able to locate and apprehend individuals who pose a threat to our communities,” said Sheriff Patten. Dishta will remain in custody in Louisiana pending further legal proceedings and extradition to Adams County.

Adams County deputies arrested Porsha Dobbins, 33, of Natchez, for burglary of a dwelling, a felony punishable by up to 25 years in jail. Bond has not been set. She was arrested earlier this month for the false reporting of a crime.

Dr. Jeff Bulington is moving from Franklin County back to his home in Indiana. He and his Franklin County Chess program have won state and national recognition for the his students’ chess skills and their maturity. Bulington received an award from the Mississippi Chess Club for his service.

Kevin Wilson

Adams County Supervisor Kevin Wilson has pledged to put $500,000 in his KLW PAC. He wants to help elect conservative leadership that will lead to responsible government. Wilson will add the funds to promote and elect Mississippi candidates between now and 2027.

 Natchez aldermen considered two candidates for a planning commission vacancy. One candidate was not a city resident and could not be appointed. Aldermen then appointed Louis Volz to the spot. Volz was licensed to practice law in Louisiana, was an administrative law judge, and was also a member of the New Orleans planning commission for many years. He moved to Natchez as a retiree and is a city resident. There are nine appointees to the city planning commission. 

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission has scheduled its monthly meeting at the Vidalia Convention Center on April 9 at 10 a.m. The meeting is open to the public. The commission often moves its monthly meetings around the state to encourage citizen participation. 

Scott Christian

Gillon CPA Scott Christian said he was ready to give the city a clean audit opinion, not a clean audit. He gave the city clerk’s office 30 pages of corrections and improvements that had to be made immediately before the CPA could issue the 2024 audit. Christian noted the city continues to handle its interfund loans improperly and fails to reconcile bank accounts, the same problems it has had year after year. He did not go into details. He is hopeful he can work with the clerk staff to submit a timely audit for 2025. The city will send its audit to the state. And the state will post that audit online. Miss-Lou Magazine will provide a review of the audit once it is available. The current administration has had two different city clerks from 2020 to 2026. It has issued four audits, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024. All four audits had significant negative finding. Mayor Dan Gibson said that even though a deputy clerk stole money in 2024, the city did not lose the money. The bonding company repaid the lost funds.  

The United States Marshals Service, with assistance from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, successfully apprehended a fugitive wanted out of Dakota County, Minnesota, during a joint law enforcement operation conducted on March 25, 2026. Elijah Davion York was taken into custody without incident at a residence on Seale Lane in Natchez. York was wanted on multiple felony warrants issued by the State of Minnesota, including charges of:  Criminal Sexual Conduct in the First Degree (victim under 14), Use of a Minor in Sexual Performance/Pornographic Work, Assault in the Fourth Degree (against protected classes), Assault in the Fifth Degree. Authorities confirmed the warrants were extraditable nationwide and that the defendant had previously failed to appear before the court as required .Following confirmation of the active warrants through originating authorities, members of the United States Marshals Service, with assistance from Adams County deputies, executed the arrest safely and without resistance. York is currently being held pending extradition proceedings to Minnesota. 

At the Natchez aldermen's meeting on March 24, Mayor Dan Gibson said MDOT will begin erosion work near the Canal Street Bridge installing rip rap. The repairs are expected to take several months. The street will remain open during the repairs. Following a request from Alderman Valencia Hall, the mayor said he would talk to the PD about enforcing the ban on heavy truck traffic using the Canal Street Bridge. Community Development Director James Johnston received permission from aldermen to proceed on street and retaining wall repairs to Cotton Alley. The street is located near Slick Rick’s Cafe as a narrow thru way between Pearl and Commerce streets.

Lee Best

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson announced at a private meeting at Twin Oaks that Natchez Police Commander Lee Best will be the new police chief. At a special aldermen’s meeting March 23, Gibson broke a 3-3 tie to choose Best. Aldermen Hall, Smith and Moroney voted in favor of Best. Aldermen Frazier, Irving and Davis objected to Best’s nomination, because the city did not follow its normal civil service procedures and weakened the qualifications to be chief to allow Best to get the job. Best was previously promoted to Commander after being hired as city code enforcement officer. Before being hired at NPD, he served in the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, rising from a deputy to supervisor.

Charles T. Buchannan III, 34, of Natchez, has been arrested for failure to register as a sex offender, a felony. His bond was set at $10,000. He was arrested by deputies in 2023 for felon in possession of multiple weapons, possession of a pistol illegally converted to fully automatic, possession of drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was convicted of robbery in 2011 and convicted of sexual battery in 2012.

Devin Harper, 29, of Natchez, was walking along the roadway near the Natchez Walmart Sunday night, when he was struck and killed by off-duty Natchez police officer Elijah Marsaw driving his personal vehicle. The Highway Patrol is investigating the accident.

Powwow returns

The Natchez Powwow will be held March 28-29 on the Bluff at 319 Broadway. Native American dancing, crafts and refreshments will be included. For more info, go to www.natchezpowwow.com.

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson provided an update on the Morgantown Rd. project. He said, "The final phase of this complex project is set to begin within the next three weeks with final completion expected within six to seven months. This phase will address the section of Morgantown Road from its beginning at Highway 61 to the city limits at Dixie Road. Planned improvements include replacing existing drainage pipes, re-grading drainage ditches, resurfacing the roadway, and tying in residential driveways to ensure proper access and water flow.

As part of its plan to concentrate more on its casino operations, Saratoga Casino Holdings has sold the Magnolia Bluffs Casino Hotel to unnamed buyers. Saratoga will retain the Natchez casino. Saratoga has invested more than $120 million in its new Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, casino and wants concentrate on that business as well as its other casino operations. The company owns another casino in Blackhawk, Colorado. The Magnolia Bluffs Casino Hotel normally donated $240,000 a year to city government for community development purposes. Whether the new owners of the hotel will continue the tradition started by Kevin Preston has not been announced.

Enaje Bates

Wilkinson County deputies and Woodville and Centreville police worked together to find the killers of Enaje Bates, who was shot and killed near Centreville on MLK Day this year. At first, JaMonta Franklin, 18, was arrested for the murder. Now authorities have charged DeMarion McNabb, 16, and Kevin Slack, 16. All three are charged with murder and aggravated assault. 

Wilkinson County supervisors voted to give Natchez Children’s Services $2500 to care for abused children. Duncan Engineering told county leaders it would be placing new signs at four major intersections in the county to help drivers navigate. The company is also assisting on two projects at the J. R. Hamilton Extension Service Building, paving the parking lot and replacing the roof. 

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson and his aldermen plan to interview five candidates for the police chief post March 23. The mayor and aldermen have a first choice for the job, a Natchez police commander. The city would prefer to hire a local candidate.

Christopher Bryant Jr.

The third and final armed robbery suspect involved in the beating and robbery at Hibbett Sports last month was taken into custody by Vidalia Police today. Christoper Bryant Jr., 28, of Napoleonville, was arrested and charged with armed robbery and attempted First Degree Murder. Bryant, along with his cousin, Antony Knockum allegedly robbed a victim exiting Hibbett Sports on Tuesday, February 17. Investigators believe Knockum’s girlfriend, Oriana Butler set up the robbery. Butler and Knockum were arrested on February 19. Butler was charged with criminal conspiracy to commit armed robbery and obstruction of justice. Knockum was charged with armed robbery and attempted first-degree murder. Investigators executed a search warrant on their residence on February 19. During the search, approximately one pound of marijuana, several smaller individual bags of marijuana, a box of plastic bags, a digital scale, a 9mm pistol and an AR-15 rifle were found. As a result of the search, Butler received additional charges of possession of schedule I (marijuana) with intent to distribute, possession of CDS while in possession of a firearm and cruelty to a juvenile. Knockum received additional charges of possession of schedule I (marijuana) with intent to distribute, possession of CDS while in possession of a firearm, cruelty to a juvenile and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Knockum is also being held on a parole violation, while Bryant is being held on a probation violation. “From the very beginning, our officers and investigators work this case from the initial call and we’re glad to make this final arrest,” said Chief Joey Merrill. “Our prayers and thoughts are with the victim in this case and we hope this can bring some comfort to them knowing these suspects were arrested and now face prosecution in this matter.” Knockum recently attempted an escape from the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility on March 8. As part of his plan, he cut himself and thought he would be taken to Trinity Hospital for treatment. He also told another inmate to contact his girlfriend and have her meet him at the hospital. He was taken to another facility for treatment instead. He was charged with self-mutilation by a prisoner, simple escape and aggravated escape.

Zillow says the average home value in Natchez is $117,399, down 12.1 percent in the past year. The average home value in Vidalia is $137,467, down 15.2 percent in the past year.

The federal government has allocated $2 million to build a new Canal Street Bridge. But another $4 million is needed to actually do the project. Mayor Dan Gibson asked Adams County supervisors to join in a lobbying effort to get the Legislature to allocate the money. Supervisors agreed to do so, which might involve the county joining the city in putting up some of the money. While it’s late in the legislative session to get a state appropriation this year, the Governor is talking about having a special session and local officials may have extra time to lobby for the project. The city and county do not have the additional $4 million and don’t want to borrow the money. Local officials hope the state will send the community a present and pay for the bridge. 

Judge John Reeves

Judge John Reeves rejected Ben Ceasor's sentence reduction request in Seventh Judicial Court. Ceasor was sentenced to 40 years for manslaughter in the 2024 vehicular death of Jason Tyson. In addition to the original 40 years manslaughter sentence, Ceasor received six months’ time served for aggravated second-degree battery; six months’ time served for domestic abuse battery; 10 years for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; seven years for aggravated flight from an officer; five years for aggravated hit-and-run; and another 10 years for a second conviction of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. All the original sentences stay in effect.

This year's 95 Country St. Jude radiothon raised $58,685, marking the highest total ever raised in a single year in the radio station history.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is providing a final update regarding the search for Cornelius Elijah Allen, a 31-year-old male who was originally reported missing out of Covington County, Mississippi, on February 25. After an extensive multi-day search effort, Mr. Allen was located deceased in the Mississippi River near the Hydro Plant on Highway 15 in Louisiana, approximately one hour from Vidalia. He was identified by personal identification found on his person. The Natchez Police Department, which has been leading the investigation, has confirmed the discovery. Notification has been made to family members. This discovery comes after weeks of coordinated search efforts involving multiple agencies. The Adams County Search and Rescue Team, along with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, the Natchez Police Department, and the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office, dedicated countless hours searching the Mississippi River and surrounding wooded areas. Sheriff Travis Patten and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend their sincere appreciation to all agencies, volunteers, and community members who contributed their time, resources, and efforts throughout this search. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Allen’s family during this incredibly difficult time. We ask the community to continue to lift them up in prayer as they seek comfort and closure.”

Jury decides

Sixth District D.A. Tim Cotton said a grand jury has looked at the case of the shooting death of postman Jamie Keating in October 2024 and found no cause to indict the shooter. The jury reviewed extensive video and witness evidence and may have believed the shooter acted in self-defense. The two men argued inside a Sprint Mart c-store on Hwy. 61 North near Washington over a spilled cup of ice. Keating went outside to his vehicle and retrieved a handgun and came back inside the store, where the argument escalated. Keating then physically assaulted his victim, knocking him down to the floor, while in possession of the handgun. And while Keating was standing over his opponent, the shooter then pulled a hidden pistol and shot Keating to death. Grand juries only deal with felonies. If the shooter committed a misdemeanor as part of the events, that case would be referred back to justice court. The jury’s decision not to indict closes any potential felony criminal case.   

The Concordia Parish School Board plans to make improvements at Vidalia Junior High including interior painting, additional space for the school’s new programs, improvements to gymnasium bathrooms and updates to the building’s eaves. The Board also wants to upgrade lighting at the Monterey School. Lighting on the Monterey softball field poles needs to be updated, and one pole needs to be replaced. The Board will hire an architect to assist in the planning and supervision of the work. The Board is moving slowly toward a decision on what to do about a central office. It moved out of the Weeks' office building in September 2022 after black mold was discovered. The Board members have considered other locations: the Southern Designs building, where central office staff are now located, the old Concordia Bank branch in Ferriday, or perhaps building from the ground up as possibilities.   

"Brad" Bradford, Adams Country EMS director, said seven of the 18 emergency sirens in the city and county are not yet working. The parts and software have been ordered. And the company supplying the items will do the installation. Bradford did not give a date as to when he thinks the work will be done.

National Register

The Charles Beam House, also known as the Cowert House, has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it the first house in Franklin County to earn the distinction. The vernacular Greek Revival home dates back to the late 1850s.

The Catahoula Correctional Center successfully prevented two major contraband threats this week thanks to its newly deployed full body security scanning system from OD Security North America. During screening, correctional officers used the scanner to identify an improvised weapon concealed on one individual and a package of illegal narcotics hidden on another. Both items were detected before they could enter the dorms, preventing potential violence and medical emergencies. The scanner is used on both staff and inmates, ensuring that every person entering the secure perimeter is screened consistently and safely. This universal approach strengthens the integrity of CCC’s security procedures and reduces opportunities for contraband to enter the facility. Sheriff Toney Edwards and Warden Gary Allen express strong support for the technology and the results it has already delivered. Sheriff Edwards stated that he is “encouraged by what this scanner can do for the safety of our staff, our inmates, and our community.” Warden Allen added that the system is “a powerful tool that gives our officers an advantage in stopping dangerous items before they ever reach the living areas.” Modern transmission X-ray scanners can identify a wide range of contraband, including: drugs and drug filled balloons, cell phones, SIM cards, and chargers; weapons, blades, and improvised tools; currency and prohibited personal items; metallic and nonmetallic objects; items concealed under clothing or inside the body.

The Catahoula Sheriff’s Office and Correctional Facility conducted an investigation regarding one of its female dispatchers who was leaving her station repeatedly to meet up with a male inmate at a spot within the facility that is out of camera view, according the Sheriff Toney Edwards. Both the dispatcher and the inmate denied any sexual intimacy. Since the SO cannot prove sex occurred, it simply fired the dispatcher for leaving her station. Edwards did not release the names of the two people involved.

New fire truck

Franklin County’s Board of Supervisors and the Volunteer Fire Department took delivery on the first new fire truck for the county since 2003, which was purchased for District 5 23 years ago. The new truck is a Rosenbauer/Tanker Pumper with a 2,000 gallon tank. It will be fully equipped with all of the equipment needed to be NFPA compliant. The unit will be ready to serve the county from the time it rolls in and is filled with water. The Board of Supervisors allowed the Emergency Management Agency to apply for a Round 7 RFTAAP Grant, which was approved, as was an RFTMAP Grant from the Mississippi Department of Insurance and the Mississippi Fire Services Division. The county is receiving $170,000 from that grant, along with another $35,000 that was added when surplus funds were found by the state, making for a total of $205,000 to be applied to the total purchase price of $477,175, with the remainder being paid from the insurance Rebate Fund that the county receives each year. Officials have been saving for many years to purchase another truck, and EMA Director Mark Thornton said he is proud to be able to see this happen in order to better serve the citizens of Franklin County.

The Natchez Historical Society presents, "The 10 Most Endangered Places in Mississippi,"a program presented March 24 with speaker Lolly Rash. (Joan Gandy's presentation is postponed until next month due to scheduling conflicts.) As Executive Director of Mississippi Heritage Trust since 2013, Rash has been fighting for Mississippi’s historic treasures for over 30 years. She has served as Historical Administrator for the City of Biloxi, Vice President of White House Properties and as a consultant for the Land Trust for the Mississippi Coastal Plain, Mississippi Department of Archives and History and Mississippi Main Street Association. She is a past president of Mississippi Heritage Trust Board of Trustees and a former fellow with the Knight Program in Community Building. She will talk about the 2025 list of the 10 Most Endangered Historic Places in Mississippi. Begun in 1999, the 10 Most list shines a much-needed spotlight on Mississippi's treasured historic places that are in danger of being lost to rampant development, storm damage, misguided public policy or just plain stupidity. Rash's presentation is part of the Grace MacNeil Lecture Program. Natchez Historical Society programs are free and open to the public. The meeting begins at 5 p.m. at 108 South Commerce St.

Law enforcement reported trees down and roads blocked in a half dozen locations across Natchez-Adams County during storms on March 15-16. A tree fell on Mullins Road residence, trapping people inside. They were freed by emergency personnel without injury. Cold weather returned to the Miss-Lou with nighttime temps in the 30’s. 

Spring Pilgrimage

The 2026 Natchez Spring Pilgrimage, now in its 94th year, blooms this weekend along with the thousands of azaleas now showing their colors all over Natchez! Since 1932, our historic river bluffs have been coming alive each spring with an age-old tradition that captures the beauty of the South while adapting each year to converge with the modern era in beautiful ways to tell a more complete story of the mansions and those who built them. Amidst our landscape of historic gardens, majestic oaks and Spanish moss, visitors from all over the world have for decades been immersing themselves in the stories of Natchez. This year’s pilgrimage continues that long-standing legacy, offering curated tours of historic estates alongside honest, necessary narratives that encompass the difficult history of slavery, the resilience of the post-Reconstruction era, and the transformative milestones of the Civil Rights movement. All total, spring tour experiences will feature 36 historic homes along with museums and guided tour experiences, and the opportunity to enjoy our bed-and-breakfasts, hotels, and short term rentals while dining at great restaurants and perusing our amazing shops and art galleries. And of course, we can’t forget the amazing sunsets to be enjoyed in The Sunset Capital of the South! Living History Natchez, in its first year, is featuring 14 historic mansions ranging from the beautiful Ravenna and it’s three-story elliptical staircase to the historic Hope Farm, currently under restoration, dating back to the 1700’s and former home to a Spanish Governor. The Briars with its incredible river views, Holly Hedges with its stories of early Natchez, and the world-renowned Rosalie, are also among the noted properties available to tour. Living History also has great events planned and has already featured an amazing evening with the 11th Earl and Countess of Sandwich, Luke and Julie Montagu, traveling all the way from their ancestral home Mapperton in Dorset, UK to open the Living History Antiques Show, running through Saturday, March 14 at the Natchez Convention Center. Also featured has been a Thursday night concert reprising the historic Jenny Lind performance in Natchez when “The Swedish Nightingale” charmed Natchezians in 1851. Upcoming events are numerous, including collaborations with the Natchez Festival of Music, a ragtime-themed concert on March 14, and the Natchez Little Theater, bringing back the beloved Natchez play “Southern Exposure” on March 19. Music fans can also head to "Blues on the Bluff" at Rosalie on March 21 for a night of soulful melodies overlooking the Mississippi River. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.livinghistorynatchez.com. The Natchez Garden Club is hosting additional home tours and beautifully-curated events from March 14 to April 18, providing over a month of opportunities to celebrate Natchez’s long-standing commitment to historic preservation. A centerpiece of this year’s social calendar is the Magnolia Festival Ball, scheduled for Saturday, March 28, which continues a beloved tradition of local pageantry. The club’s home tours feature some of the most significant structures in the region, including the splendor of Magnolia Hall, the last great mansion built in Natchez before the Civil War, and the House on Ellicott’s Hill, a National Historic Landmark perched where Andrew Ellicott first raised the American flag. The beautiful Linden, legendary Elms Court, and pillared Dunleith will also be featured, along with other great homes. Numerous events including historical reenactments, luncheons, and a portrayal of the “Wake of Annie Stewart” at Sunnyside, are waiting to be enjoyed. Families and visitors of all ages are invited to enjoy a community Easter Egg Hunt. This event will take place on Sunday, March 29 at 2:00 p.m. on the sprawling, picturesque grounds of The Towers, a splendid Italianate mansion known worldwide for its themed tours which are offered year-round, especially at Easter and Christmas. Natchez Pilgrimage Tours will be celebrating more home tours and exciting events March 19 to April 15, showcasing some of the city's most majestic estates. Included will be iconic landmarks such as the massive, Corinthian-columned Stanton Hall and the hauntingly beautiful, unfinished octagonal villa Longwood. The beloved “Save the Hall Ball” will take place Saturday, March 21 at Stanton Hall, offering delicious food and outstanding entertainment with dancing into the early morning hours. Other elegant historic homes, such as The Burn perched on its beautiful hill, the original collections at Landsdowne, and the Greek Revival masterpiece D’Evereux. Renowned author and designer Holly Holden will be featured at several events, and the John Bowman Banks House, home of Mississippi’s first black Doctor, and Concord Quarters, Mississippi’s only freestanding former slave quarters listed on the National Register of Historic Places, will provide intriguing stories of the past. The "Porches and Parlors" progressive dinner offers a unique Friday and Saturday night experience through April 11, moving guests through the historic ambiances of Myrtle Terrace, Stanton Hall, and The Big Muddy Inn, and the "Echoes of Longwood: Ghosts in the Octagon" will feature legends within the walls of the nation's largest octagonal house. A special treat will be the opportunity to tour Historic Auburn, an early Federal villa set in beautiful Duncan Park, open for tours by the Historic Natchez Foundation. The home of Stephen Duncan, and Natchez’ first home constructed from plans by an architect, Levi Weeks, in 1812, Auburn is noted for its fully-unsupported spiral staircase. For information about NAPAC, Natchez’ Museum of African American History, visit www.visitnapac.com. For information on lodging, shopping, dining, and other tour experiences, visit www.visitnatchez.org. Article by Dan Gibson.

Old IP plant

Taxpayers continue to fund Natchez, Inc., even though the agency is unable to recruit manufacturing and industrial jobs. The city and county spent over $3 million in the last decade on Natchez, Inc. The number of manufacturing jobs has declined 83 percent since 1980. 1980 2,460, 1990 1,020, 2010 1,158, 2020 463, 2026 427.

Vidalia Chief of Police Joey Merrill warns the public, especially our most vulnerable citizens, of a potential scam. An elderly citizen received a call from 507-516-0736 disguising itself to be a relative in need of help. The scammer arranged a taxi service to pickup the citizen, which gave them a ride to the bank to get blank checks. “I urge everyone to be mindful of calls from unknown phone numbers and riding with folks you don’t know,” said Chief Merrill. “Please talk with your loved ones and feel free to call us if you suspect you’re being scammed.”

The We The People 39120 Facebook page and app lets you post pictures and details of problems that need to be fixed in Natchez. This local free service sends a message to the aldermen of the ward where the problem has occurred, asking for assistance. If the alderman does not respond within 30 days, the same message gets sent to the mayor. Go to the Facebook page for details and download the app if you think it will work for you.

State champs

The Ferriday High Trojans beat the East Iberville High School Tigers 59-55 to win the 2026 LHSAA Non-Select Division IV state championship.

The 2024 City of Natchez audit is six months late. It should have been delivered to the state in September. The 2021-2023 audits were filled with negative findings, with the city unable to do its bookkeeping and accounting by acceptable standards. Spending was not properly documented. Bank statements were not reconciled and interfund transfers not recorded. Six major negative findings plus more than $357,000 in overdrafts were cited by the CPA. City leaders complained the CPA was too slow. So officials left Silas Simmons and went back to Gillon for 2024. A deputy clerk stole money, was arrested and convicted in 2025-2026, making three clerks in recent years with sticky fingers. A lack of security controls, previously indicated in the last three audits, pointed to continuing problems. In the last audit submitted, the city ran a $2.7 million deficit, spending more than it earned in revenues. As of now, there are no monthly or quarterly cash flow reports of revenues and expenses made public. Aldermen approve a docket of spending, but there is no discussion or paperwork showing whether the city is in surplus or deficit.

Ferriday police arrested Tynesha Hollins, 29, of Ferriday, for shooting at her boyfriend near Home Hardware. She was charged with aggravated assault, unlawful discharge of a weapon and unlawful possession of a weapon. Police are seeking her boyfriend, Barry Williams, who may or may not have assaulted Hollins. Police said Hollins story about being pursued by the boyfriend in his truck is not true. Video captured from the store shows her pointing a gun at the truck and the boyfriend trying to get around her without getting shot.   

Wakling parade

The Natchez Patrick's Day Walking Parade will be March 17 and begins with a line-up at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Park. The march starts at 6 p.m. and goes down Main St. to the Bluff. The public is invited to participate.   

The Meadville-Franklin County Lions Club is inviting all families for a fun afternoon in downtown Meadville on Thursday, April 2. That's when the club will host a Easter Egg Hunt surrounded with other events. The event will take place at Halford Law Firm, located at 85 Main Street West. Starting at 3 p.m. that day, pictures with the Easter Bunny, games and live bunnies will be available. Thousands of colorful eggs filled with treats will be available for children to find. Everyone is encouraged to their baskets and cameras to enjoy this new Meadville community tradition. This is a free event and everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.

More than 100 Natchez public school students participated in a massive tree planting program this week at the local schools, with 197 trees planted.

Feeding feral cats

The Vidalia Riverfront has seen an explosion in the number of feral cats because people feed them. The food also attracts rats and other varmints.  The town will probably eventually have to remove the cats, as several dozen cats can turn to more than a hundred in a couple years. Feeding feral cats guarantees there will be many more, as the cats give birth to more kittens, none of which are fixed. A concentration of cats depletes the local environment of mice, moles, lizards and birds, which are important parts of the environment. Feral cats are more susceptible to disease and disease transmission. If the cats continue to be fed, they lose their wildness. If the crazy cat lady goes away, they can lose their ability to hunt and forage and can get sick and die through lack of food. 

Ferriday police and Concordia deputies responded to shots fired near Home Hardware in Ferriday after a woman alleged she was pursued by an individual in a vehicle. She said she fired her handgun at her potential assailant. Authorities reported no injuries.   

The Town of Bude honored Deputy Chief Everett Marshall for his 34 years of service to the community, as he retired. He was thanked by town officials an given a service plaque.  

Polk Park

Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft said security will be on duty at the Polk Park, including the new playground, as it opens. He expects the park to be open seven days a week from morning to evening. The mayor said there have been a few instances of bullying of younger children by older children at town facilities. The town wiil not allow this kind of behavior. And if caught, the offending bullies will be banned from the park. Craft said parents will be able to have birthday parties at Polk. But they will not be able to reserve parts of the park for their exclusive use. The park will be open and all its facilities to everyone at any time during operating hours. The park will open in April.   

Concordia voters will go to the polls June 27 to consider our renewal of a 10 mil property tax. If approved, the tax would being in effect from 2027 to 2036. The millage is used for facilities, improvements and general expenses.

Democrat Scott Collom will face Republican Cindy Hyde- Smith in November for the U.S. Senate. For Congress in the 2nd District, Democrat Bennie Thompson won 86 percent of the primary vote. In the Republican primary, Kevin Wilso lost to Ron Eller by two percent. 

No tax relief

After Natchez City Attorney Jack Lazarus read a note to aldermen from the tax assessor explaining how Herring and Associates computes assessments, Mayor Dan Gibson said he and the aldermen have talked among themselves and realize some homes and businesses have been assessed at too high an amount. He suggested aggrieved taxpayers get their own appraisals and present their contrary evidence to the assessor. Gibson said the city would take no action on the issue unless supervisors did something or if aldermen wanted to pass a motion. Aldermen said absolutely nothing, no comments whatsoever. The mayor squirmed in his chair and then moved on to the next agenda item. Individual taxpayers can present the assessor with documentation that their taxes should be lowered. If denied by the assessor, the taxpayer can petition the supervisors for a hearing. If denied by supervisors, then the taxpayer can sue in circuit court to get redress. City leaders are content not to take any action to lower millage.   

The Mississippi Department of Revenue tallies sales tax numbers for cities and counties. The City of Natchez has a special heads and beds tax of 3 percent plus $2 per room per night, a tax charged in top of the normal 7 percent sales tax. According to the state, Natchez collected $373,000 from this special tax in FY 2024, but collections dropped to $311,000 in FY 2025, reflecting a big drop in tourism. 

Roxie aldermen have approved the sale of wine and beer on Sundays. Consumers can now buy wine and beer seven days a week.   

Police Chief Cal Green

Natchez Police Chief Cal Green got emotional talking about her service and commitment to the community. She said she will continue to help the Natchez Police Department after her retirement. She commended her employees for doing an excellent job. The mayor and aldermen gave her a round of applause after her short speech. Green was somewhat upset and tearful because she and her officers have received what she felt was unmerited negative criticism from the public and some aldermen. Alderwoman Felicia Irving commented said that it says “a lot about Natchez that it chose a black and a black woman as police chief.” Natchez has had five black and three white police chiefs since Eddie Jones was appointed police chief when David Armstrong was mayor in the 1980’s. Jones was the first black chief. Green is the city’s first woman chief. 

Michael Walker, a spokesman for AT&T, told Natchez aldermen that his company would be upgrading service lines to include fiber optic cable near the Forks of the Road site. The work will cost several hundred thousand dollars and should be done by mid-July. The upgrade will give residences and businesses much better Internet service in the area. The upgrade will also benefit the National Park Service, as it has plans for a museum and exhibit facilities for the Forks. 

Natchez aldermen decided to bid work for the repair of drainage along Purnell Street. The street often floods.

Home repairs

Southwest Mississippi Planning will continue collaborating with the City of Natchez to facilitate home repairs for low income-qualified homeowners, with eight recipients receiving over $500,000 in total in repairs. The federal government pays for the work.   

Natchez officials agreed to revise contracts on $1.3 million worth of repairs to the city auditorium and the convention center that will reduce the cost of those repairs by $24,000. The city also will rebid the work to repair and replace the fabric that covers the partition walls at the convention center. The contractor that won the bid a year and a half ago never did the work, and a new contractor must be chosen. The new fabric will match the new interior color scheme at the convention center. Mayor Dan Gibson joked that he had heard there were social media post accusing officials of taking bribes and kickbacks. The mayor said he wished citizens would give officials credit when they are able to save money, like on the city auditorium and convention center projects. Alderwoman Felicia Irving took exception to any accusation of wrongdoing. She said she is honest and her integrity is important to her. Alderman Billie Joe Frazier said he would like to see more companies bidding for city work. Too many of the bids win are going to the same few companies, he believes. Gibson said the city posts its bid projects online and all bids are welcome. He added the city follows all federal, state and local rules in advertising, receiving and awarding bids. 

Natchez city officials gave certificates of thanks and commendation to three members of the Natchez Convention Promotion Commission who have served since 2016, promoting tourism. Those volunteers receiving awards included Barbara Bruce, Helen Moss Smith and Lance Harris. Aldermen also commended Norma West for her work as chairperson and volunteer for the Downtown Natchez Association.

Landry Merritt

Vidalia High senior Landry Merritt won the 2026 Miss Vidalia competition at the Vidalia Convention Center. Runners-up were Chloe Carter and Kolbee Keeney. The Vidalia Women's Club sponsors the annual event.   

Rob Lubin, a Virginia immigration lawyer, has been the prime mover and owner of the Eola Hotel. He bought hotel from nursing home operator Bob Dean in 2014. Dean had owned the property since 1998. When Lubin bought the property, he closed it, saying he had development plans in the works. Since 2014, the property has continued to deteriorate, although some stabilization work has been done. The Lubin team previously announced it would repair and reopen the hotel. A new Eola holdings company was formed in June 2025. NRE2, LP was established in Virginia, with the business number 1494209. It is a limited partnership and its registered address is 5090 Shoreham Drive, Suite 102, San Diego, California. The registered agent's name is Steve Hendrix of the law firm Butler Snow in Ridgeland, Miss. The business's status is currently listed as in good standing. A limited partnership in Virginia does not have to divulge its owners or who owns how much stock in the company. In November 2025, Lubin was disbarred from practicing law in Virginia. He consented to the disbarment without a hearing or appeal. It's not known if his disbarment will affect the Eola's progress. Promoter and spokesman for the project, Hayes Dent, previously announced the Eola would open in 2027 as a 98-room Marriott Tribute brand boutique hotel. Dent said the long delay in the project was the result of inflation in construction costs in recent years. Adams County tax records now show NRE2, LP as the owner of the Eola. Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said, “The Eola has long been the anchor of historic downtown Natchez. Its redevelopment is a vital piece of our Natchez Renewal, and...this historic (project) speaks to the progress happening in our great city.”

Mississippi homeowners have until April 1 to file for homestead exemption on their property. If you’re already have homestead exemption, you do not have to file again. However, if you bought a piece of property that is your primary residence in the past year, and you have not filed so far, it will save your money on your property taxes, if you file.  Go to your county tax assessor’s office for assistance. That office is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.   

Fisherman rescued

Catahoula Parish Sheriff Toney Edwards reports that a coordinated search effort involving local boat owners, deputies, fire personnel, and emergency responders led to the successful rescue of a missing fisherman on Bayou Louie. Several local boat owners joined in the search along with the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office rescue boat in an effort to locate Mr. Wilson after concerns were raised when he had not returned from fishing. Mr. Wilson was ultimately located by Dennis Wascom and Johnny Nelson, officers with the Catahoula Correctional Center (CCC). The two men were familiar with Mr. Wilson and knew the area where he frequently liked to fish. While searching Bayou Louie, they discovered Mr. Wilson inside his boat where he had fallen and become pinned between the console and the side of the boat, leaving him unable to get back on his feet. Wascom and Nelson were able to assist Mr. Wilson back to his feet and safely transport him to a nearby landing where emergency personnel were standing by. Personnel from the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office, Sandy Lake Fire and Rescue, and American Medical Response (AMR) were on scene to assist in safely getting Mr. Wilson the medical attention he needed. Mr. Wilson was transported by AMR to Cabrini Hospital for evaluation. Fortunately, Mr. Wilson only suffered a bump to his face and was dehydrated but remained in good spirits. When Sheriff Edwards asked him if he had caught any fish during the trip, he replied, “Yep, eight or ten, and I would have caught more if I hadn’t fell.” Sheriff Edwards expressed appreciation for everyone involved in the operation. “I want to thank CCC Officers Johnny Nelson and Dennis Wascom for their quick response in locating Mr. Wilson. Their familiarity with the area and knowledge of where Mr. Wilson liked to fish helped them find him quickly,” Edwards said. A drone from the Sheriff’s Office was also deployed in the area during the search as an additional resource in case Mr. Wilson could not be located by boat. Sheriff Edwards also thanked AMR, Sandy Lake Fire and Rescue, all CPSO deputies, local volunteers, and the family and friends of Mr. Wilson for their efforts in this operation. “God bless each of you, and please keep Mr. Wilson in your prayers for a quick recovery and safe return home where he can get back to doing his favorite thing, fishing,” Edwards added.

Adams deputies arrested Billy J. Ford, 63, of Natchez, for failure to register as a sex offender, a felony. He remains in jail.

Wilkinson County supervisors will match the $12,500 in donations they’ve received to the $12,500 they’ve appropriated and will repair the courthouse clock. S & N Clock Repair of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, submitted the lower bid of two bids and will do the work for $25,000.

Funding denied

Natchez Children's Services requested its funding be restored by Adams supervisors. The agency used to get a $15,000 appropriation from supervisors, as it serves more than 300 local children. But Adams County has declined to fund the agency in recent years. NCS head Catherine McPhate asked county leaders once again for help. But county leaders turned her down and told her to reapply in August.

Under the guidelines of the State Board of Education, interim superintendent Lee Coats will make the financial, administrative, academic and policy decisions of the Wilkinson County School District. The former superintendent and the school board have been permanently removed from their posts by the state for malfeasance. Coats continues to hold public meetings where citizens can speak their mind. He has begun transforming the schools to improve performance of both employees and students. Coats provides the state with updated financial and organizational data, and welcomes input from locals. The state expects him to make major improvements in the short term. Coats is tasked with restoring honesty, integrity and financial stability. Under the previous administration, the district experienced teachers cheating on student performance tests, some employees were cheated out of their pay, and exiting teachers were sometimes punished by the district office, when the office refused to forward personnel, wage and employment data to the state and other employers. That made it hard for exiting teachers to find new jobs. Additionally, the district ran a $1.7 million deficit as reported in its last audit and didn’t pay its bills on time.

Natchez School Superintendent Zandra McDonald was named the Judge Mary Lee Toles Woman of the Year by the Natchez Business and Civic League at their 48th Annual Awards Banquet.   

Woodville Aadermen meet

Woodville Police Chief Lemuel Rutledge has asked aldermen to turn Mack Slan Street into a one-way street and make Gaylord Street a no parking zone from 7 AM to 3 PM for safety reasons. Town leaders took the requests under advisement. The chief also asked town leaders to meet with him in a workshop meeting to discuss how to collect $926,000 in unpaid and old fines that residents and out-of-towners owe. Aldermen voted to hire a full time utility department employee. Utility superintendent Jeremy Williams recommended the board hire Lynn Wilson for $13 an hour. The board voted to do so. Wilson will be paid $14 an hour once he completes a 90 day probationary period. A Woodville resident asked for forgiveness for some of her $71 water bill, because she has a leak. It was determined that the leak was on her side of the meter. Legally, the town cannot give her a refund, because it’s up to her to repair her water line. However, she was charged for three months of garbage pick up and never received any pick up. She may be entitled to a refund on that. Mayor Jessie Stewart said he would investigate the situation and report back to the board.   

The Franklin County Board of Supervisors and the Mississippi Forestry Commission have issued a county-wide burn ban in effect until March 24. No burning can take place from residents during the ban. The ban was approved due to dry conditions that have persisted in the area. The ban is set to expire at midnight on March 24. but could be extended.

Adams deputies arrested Anthony Day, 37, of Natchez, for possession of drug paraphernalia and felony possession of drugs. He remains in jail. In 2018, he was charged with accessory after the fact in the shooting murder of John Thomas Martin. 

Steve Nail

Jackson real estate developer Steve Nail has taken an interest in the Margaret Martin School property. He would like to develop the school for senior apartment housing. He has taken an option to purchase the property from its Dunleith owners. Nail’s company has built and rehabilitated more than $50 million worth of residential and commercial property in its history. Even though Dunleith purchased the property several years ago with the desire to develop it, it has since abandoned those plans. Nail will be looking at federal and state incentives as a means to subsidize the project and provide a return to investors. At this point, the deal is an option to purchase and the transfer and redevelopment may or may not occur.   

For more than 20 years, Miss-Lou Magazine ran a summer reading program called Fun to Read, where we mailed free Little Golden Books to parents for their kids. We mailed out thousands of books over the years and it was one of the best things we did as a newspaper. Now Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson is going to do similarly, mailing out free books to kids ages 5 and under. He hopes to send out as many as 500 books per month as part of the Mayor’s Book Club, with sponsors donating money to pay for the books and postage. 

A free community health fair will be conducted from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Tuesday at Family Health Care Clinic, located at 445 Main St. in Meadville. The event will promote wellness, provide preventative health screening (blood pressure, glucose and others) and offer educational information on lifestyle and improvements.

Store opening

Hobby Lobby will open March 20 in Tracetown Shopping Center in Natchez. It will employ 15 to 20 people on a permanent basis.

Adams deputies continue to search for Cornelius Elijah Allen, who was originally reported missing out of Covington County on February 25. Allen’s vehicle, a 2017 black Volkswagen Tiguan bearing Mississippi tag 910 CVB, was located abandoned near the intersection of D.A. Biglane Road and Canal Street in Natchez during the early morning hours of February 26, before the vehicle and missing person were entered into NCIC. According to call records, officers were dispatched around 1:57 a.m. in reference to an abandoned vehicle in the roadway and the vehicle was later removed from the scene. On February 27, Allen’s car keys were discovered on the bank of the Mississippi River at the Natchez Port, which led investigators to expand search efforts along the river and surrounding wooded areas.   

Adams County deputies arrested Harley Swoveland, 34, of Natchez, for possession of drug paraphernalia, felony possession of drugs, and several misdemeanor offenses. Her bond was set at $50,679. She remains in jail. In a separate arrest, deputies arrested Thomas Minton on several misdemeanor offenses, but when they were putting him in jail, they found him in possession of drugs. Bringing drugs or contraband into a penal facilities is a felony and he remains in jail.   

Car show

The Annual Cruising For A Cure Relay For Life Open Car Show will be held Saturday, March 7 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on the Vidalia Riverfront. It's the 12th year for the event.

Franklin County School Superintendent Chris Kent and School Board Pmresident Gloria Hayes received a Lantern leadership award for the performance of the Franklin County schools from the Mississippi School Board Association. Franklin continues to have the highest rated and best performing school district in the six county area, including Claiborne, Jefferson, Adams, Wilkinson, Franklin and Amite counties.  

Louisiana officials want to expand black bear hunting grounds to encompass wildlife management areas and private lands across the entire state. Black bear hunting has only been legal for the past two years in Louisiana after being banned in 1987, and it’s largely been concentrated in the central and northeastern parts of the state and slivers of coastal parishes. The proposed changes, unanimously approved at the monthly state Wildlife and Fisheries Commission meeting, would expand the number of black bear hunting areas in the state from three to seven. The number of hunting permits, each of which entitles the holder to bag a single bear, issued in each area will vary. More will likely be available in parts of the state, where bear hunting has previously been allowed and habitat is more robust, while fewer will go to new areas where habitat is more scarce. While an exact number hasn’t yet been determined, state officials expect it to be more than the 26 permits available last year. Hunters reported taking 16 bears — 10 males and six females — in last year’s season that spanned Dec. 6-21. 

Polk Park

Construction at Polk Park in Vidalia is moving along quickly. It’s going The pickleball and tennis courts are done, as well as a play center.   

The Village of  Harrisonburg Service League sent out a mailer regarding this year's Scholarship Program. The short version is the application period will be April 1 through April 30. The group is moving away from letters of recommendation and will be requiring an essay instead. This will encourage students to think about the service they have given their communities and focus on sharing those experiences. Check the League's postings on Facebook at vohserviceleague.  

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is proud to congratulate several members of our leadership team for successfully completing the Airport Security Coordinator Certification Workshop, a program focused on aviation security and the responsibilities required under 49 CFR 1542.3. Sheriff Travis Patten, Chief Shane Daughtery , Chief Stanley Searcy Jr., Major Keith Myles, and Major Buddy Frank have all successfully completed the ASC training, which meets Transportation Security Administration (TSA) standards and requirements. This certification will allow the Adams County Sheriff’s Office to provide airport security for the Adams County Airport once the ongoing renovations are completed, ensuring that our local aviation facility operates with the highest level of safety, preparedness, and federal compliance.

No school audits

As a sign of continuing and widespread problems, the state released a list of the 47 school districts that were behind in their audits. Natchez was one of those school districts. It has not submitted an audit to the state in three years. The district has a CPA firm in Madison to do its work, but the superintendent of schools has offered no explanation as to why the district has gotten so far behind. Over the years, the Natchez schools submitted its audits on time, and those audits showed careful and professional accounting. The district could lose its accreditation if it does not comply with state rules. But it’s unlikely the state will penalize the district, because there were 47 school districts across the state who were in noncompliance. In most circumstances, when public agencies get so far behind in submitting audits, it’s a sign the bookkeeping and accounting are not up to standard and that negative findings show violations of accounting rules and state laws. Normally, school boards are responsible enough to insist that the superintendent’s team follow state law and submit timely audits. The Natchez school board knows it is not in compliance but has not made this issue a priority.   

In Seventh District Court, Judge Don Burns sentenced Fakhrun Nisa,35, of Vidalia, received a five-year sentence for forgery. She faced charges of bank and computer fraud, access device fraud and money instrument abuse. She issued worthless checks of more than $5000.

The Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested two individuals accused of breaking into the home of a recently deceased resident and stealing property, an incident that has left the affected family shaken during an already difficult time. Deputies responded to the report on February 24, 2026, after relatives discovered that the residence had been unlawfully entered and several items were missing. An investigation quickly identified Dedrick Jerome Whitehead, 35, and Jessica L. Atkins, 34, as suspects. When deputies located the pair to make the arrests, illegal narcotics were found in their possession, resulting in additional charges. Charges Filed Dedrick Jerome Whitehead, 35 Whitehead was booked on the following charges: • Criminal trespass • Unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling • Theft of $1,000 or more • Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute His bond was set at $20,750. Jessica L. Atkins, 34 Atkins faces a broader list of charges, including: • Criminal trespass • Attempted unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling • Theft of $1,000 or more • Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute • Possession of methamphetamine • Possession of drug paraphernalia • Introduction of contraband into a penal institution. Sheriff Toney Edwards acknowledged the emotional weight of the incident and commended the deputies who handled the case. “This was a heartbreaking situation for a family already grieving the loss of a loved one,” Sheriff Edwards said. “To have someone take advantage of that moment is deeply troubling. I extend my sympathy to the family and my gratitude to the deputies whose quick and thorough work led to these arrests. Their efforts brought accountability and helped provide some measure of relief to those affected.”

Jarita King

Jarita King has spent years fighting for rural communities. Now a fellowship is taking that work to the next level. King, director of the Miss. Small Business Development Center at Alcorn State University, has been selected among 33 community leaders to serve as a 2026 Delta Leadership Institute Executive Academy Fellow. The Natchez  native was selected based on her contributions to the community and commitment to expanding her knowledge of economic development strategies. The nine-month program will allow her to network with leaders from the Mississippi River and Alabama Black Belt regions. King will participate in experiences designed to strengthen leadership decision-making skills, policy development and understanding of regional, state and local issues. 

A Flowood cyber security firm will perform a free security review of Adams County’s computers. Mississippi businesses and government agencies have been compromised and lost the use of their computer systems due to malware, hijackers and ransomware criminals. Supervisors realize their computers are very open to such threats and the assessment will determine what needs to be done to enhance the county’s security. Supervisor Kevin Wilson suggested using their computer system company’s free services to determine vulnerabilities. His fellow supervisors agreed.

Voters will head to the polls Tuesday, March 10, to decide which candidates will advance to the November General Election. Candidates on both the Democrat and Republican sides will be vying for a chance to advance to the General Election in midterm battles. The decisions made on Tuesday and again in November will decide the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Tuesday. In the race for United States Senate, Sarah Adlakha will meet incumbent Cindy Hyde-Smith in the March Republican Primary. On the Democratic side, Scott Colom, Albert R. Littell and Priscilla W. Till will face off. In the race for U.S. House of Representatives, District 2, incumbent Bennie G. Thompson will face challengers Evan Littleton Turnage and Pertis Herman Williams III in the Democratic Primary. On the Republican side, Ron Eller and Kevin Wilson will face off for the right to advance to the November General Election. Where are three or more candidates in a race, a winner must carry 50 percent plus on of the total number of ballots casts in that race. If not, there will be a runoff election. Voters needing to cast an absentee ballot can do so during normal business hours in the Circuit Clerk’s Office. In addition, absentee voting will be available from 8 a.m. until 12 noon on Saturday at the Circuit Clerk’s Office. The last day to vote in-person absentee is Saturday while mail-in absentee ballots must be postmarked on or before March 10. On Election Day, voters must choose whether to vote in the Democrat or Republican primary. In the event of a runoff, voters who voted in that party’s primary along with any voters who did not vote will be allowed to cast a ballot in the runoff. If you voted in the other party’s primary, you will not be allowed to vote in the runoff.

Fires break out

Natchez firefighters could not save a mobile home that caught on fire Monday at 806 Lower Woodville Road. No injuries were reported. The community has suffered from three brush fires and four house fires in just 72 hours.

Adams deputies arrested Kody Driver, 31, of Pine Grove, for grand larceny of items worth $5,000-$10,000. He remains in jail. Driver previously served time in the Tensas jail but Louisiana record does not say what of felony he was convicted.

The Natchez Festival of Music presents a full day celebration of ragtime Saturday, March 14, at the Father David O’Conner Family Life Center. At 10 a.m., explore Keys to the Kingdom, The Legacy of Ragtime lecture. Then at 7 p.m., enjoy Ragtime and Beyond featuring Brian Holland, with music from Scott Joplin to Billy Joel. Admission for the evening concert is $30. For tickets, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ragtime-and-beyond-tickets-1738826038489?aff.

Danielle Watson

Trinity Episcopal Church presents "Adored Treasures: An Evening of Musical Gems," March 6 from 5-7 p.m. This concert filled with great music, featuring Dr. Danielle Watson, soprano, in collaboration with Dr. Gonzalo Aguilar, piano. A former graduate of Alcorn State University and former member of the Trinity Episcopal Church choir, Watson earned her Doctorate and Master of Music degrees in Vocal Performance from The University of Southern Mississippi and is currently an Assistant Professor of Vocal Studies at Virginia State University Department of Music. Watson returns to Natchez to help raise funds for the Trinity Organ Restoration Fund and the Trinity Music Program. Tickets are $30 and available from the church office by calling 601-445-8432.

A traffic accident killed two young people, Dyamond Dee, 19, of Natchez and Kamarion Hyder, 18, of Port Gibson. Hyder was driving along Hwy. 552 in Jefferson County when his vehicle left the road and hit a tree, killing he and his passenger, Dee. They were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Adams County Board of Supervisors has posted a county-wide burn ban through the Mississippi Forestry Commission, effective March 2-March 16. The current weather conditions and recent fires within the county has prompted this decision. Individuals caught violating may face fines up to $500.   

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