Graduation season is officially here, which means students across Louisiana are preparing for one of life’s biggest milestones… and one of its longest ceremonies. Between the packed auditoriums, nervous sweating, endless speeches, and the fear of tripping on stage, every graduate knows survival requires a few essentials: graduation cords, a portable fan, sunglasses for hiding tired eyes from cramming for finals, and a fully charged phone ready for photos the second it’s over.

Several years ago, a radio station in San Francisco conducted a nonscientific listener survey. Sixty-eight percent of the people surveyed were for it. Twenty percent were against it. The remaining twelve percent had no opinion on the matter. So the radio station concluded from this nonscientific survey that the vast majority were in favor of it. The funny part is that the radio station never asked a question. It was an illustration of the bandwagon effect. If you get enough people walking down South Trenton Street in the same direction at nearly the same time, a parade is likely to break out.

I could go on one of my rants about people not thinking critically about political, educational, existential, or spiritual matters — but I won’t. I will say this: you need to read more than just the headlines on the website. You need to read the article. And you need to read more than one verse of the Bible if you want the whole picture. We often form opinions based on emotion rather than actually thinking something through. (I know — shocking.)

I talk about this because when people find out I’m a minister, they usually ask a question that goes something like this: “Do Methodists believe in drinking wine and playing cards at the dance held on Sunday afternoon at the movie theater?” This is not a serious question, but the ones people ask me are just as funny. When someone asks me about a specific “sin,” I usually ask them what they think. You might be surprised to know that people are looking for direction and validation in their lives. I’m amused that they mostly want to know if I’m AGAINST the same things they’re against. Often, in seeking direction and validation for our spiritual position, we join a church where people “think like we do.”

Nonchurch folks define the congregation of Trinity Methodist in two ways: by who attends our church, and by what we are AGAINST. I have a list of jokes to prove my point, but space doesn’t allow me to share them. (You’re welcome.) In church life, the bandwagon is joined as much for what a church is against as for what the church believes. But do you really want anyone defining you by what you’re against?

Now here’s what I want you to hear — and I want you to hear it louder than any bandwagon rolling down the street. I am FOR YOU. I believe God loves you just the way you are — not the “improved,” “cleanedup,” “Sundaybest” version of you, but the real you, the one who sometimes burns the biscuits, loses their patience, and wonders if they’re getting any of this right. You don’t have to do one single thing to earn God’s love. Not one. I believe God wants the best for you — and your “best” doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. God loves you so much that He sent Jesus into the world to show us that love with skin on.

And if you’ve never heard anyone say this plainly, let me be the first: you matter, you are loved, and heaven is not rolling its eyes at you. God is not waiting for you to get your act together — God is already cheering for you, believing in you, and walking with you.

What do you believe?

After 22 years of shared finances, a new disagreement puts one couple at odds: should they help an adult son with car payments, or protect their retirement?

 See what Ida says 

The Natchitoches Jazz&R&B Festival, which is celebrating its 29th year on May 15-16 is widely regarded as one of the top if not, THE top music festivals in north Louisiana. 

According to festival chairman Rodney Harrington, the event is the culmination of a year long community effort and would not be possible without the generous support of area businesses, concertgoers, and musicians.

“First and foremost, we have a super hard-working board of directors and core group of volunteers who work all year long for no other reason than to help provide good quality musical entertainment for the people of our area and beyond,” said Harrington.

“The festival simply wouldn’t happen without the generosity of our sponsors or partners as we call them”, Harrington continued, “they step up to the plate year after year and allow us to put on a top quality festival featuring A-list artists  and first class sound and production.”

Harrington did say that ticket sales are critical, however, and at the end of the day, it’s all about putting” butts in the seats.”

“With advance online ticket sales, we are able to track where our purchases are coming from and it’s pretty eye-opening,” Harrington said, “ we have folks coming to this festival from literally all over the country, although we rely heavily upon people who are in driving distance.”

He encourages local businesses which, for whatever reason, did not become sponsors, to please consider buying tickets to give to their employees and/or customers. 

Harrington says that the festival was started over 30 years ago mainly to provide a venue for local musicians to perform and it still maintains its loyalty to that group.

“The lineup of performers includes lots of local acts and they are going to be amongst the best you’ll see at the festival, “says Harrington.

For the first time, this year’s festival will feature a stage where all performers will play only their original music.  This will be in the beautiful setting of Beau Jardin and will be presented in cooperation with The Natchitoches Original Music Showcase.

BREAKING NEWS ALERT:  VIP TICKETS ARE NEARLY SOLD OUT AND THE JAZZ FEST BOARD ANTICIPATES TERMINATING THE FURTHER SALE OF THOSE TICKETS IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. 

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.natchjazzfest.com

Burger joints are as much a part of our American culture as the fish and chip shops are in England.  On April 25, 1960, Michael James “Jim” Delligatti opened a drive-in restaurant franchise in Uniontown, Pennsylvania.  Jim’s drive-in operated on a streamlined technique in which they could deliver a hamburger, French fires, and a milkshake in 50 seconds or less.  The menu consisted of just ten items: hamburgers, cheeseburgers, French fries, triple thick milkshakes, Coca Cola, root beer, Orangeade, milk, coffee, and hot chocolate.  By using their assembly line process, they could prepare 36 hamburgers in just 110 seconds.  Jim’s drive-in had the space to prepare 6,000 hamburgers a day.  At $.15 each, the profit margin per hamburger was small, but they made up for it in volume.  Customers flocked to Jim’s drive-in.  The food was inexpensive, quick, and tasted good.  A bright neon sign identified the drive-in.  The brightly lit food preparation area was enclosed by 900 square feet of quarter-inch plate glass so customers could see that their food was served quickly in spotless surroundings.  Business was so good that by 1971, Jim owned a dozen drive-in restaurant franchises in western Pennsylvania.  Jim eventually owned 48 restaurants in the drive-in restaurant chain.      

Jim always paid attention to what his customers wanted.  After hearing that they desired a bigger sandwich, Jim went to work.  After a short time—speed was of the utmost importance—Jim created a bigger sandwich by using items already on his menu and adding a unique sauce made from salted egg yolks, mustard, onion, garlic, and relish.  In March of 1967, Jim used his Uniontown drive-in to test out his new sandwich.  Demand exploded and Jim added his new creation to the menus of his other drive-ins.  The results were the same.  Jim’s larger sandwich was a hit, but the parent company did not want to alter their original menu.  Jim explained, “they figured, why go to something else if (the original menu) was working so well?”  Eventually, Jim’s creation was added to the national chain’s menus with resounding success.  Since 1968, the chain has sold billions of Jim’s larger sandwiches.  In 2006, the parent company estimated that they were selling 550 million of them each year at a rate of 17 each second.            

Jim did not become wealthy off of his creation that is now sold in over 100 countries.  Jim received no payment and no royalties for the creation, but that was okay with Jim.  After more than six and a half decades, Jim’s Drive-In is still open.  From the menu at the drive-in restaurant at 575 Morgantown Street in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, you can still order the sandwich Jim created there by combining two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions, on a sesame seed bun.  It is said to be the most popular sandwich on the planet.  Jim, the owner of a McDonald’s franchise, was the creator of the Big Mac.  …and it’s time for lunch.

Sources:

1.     The Evening Standard (Uniontown, Pennsylvania), April 12, 1960, p.7.

2.     The Evening Standard, March 2, 1971, p.69.

3.     Valley News (West Lebanon, New Hampshire), December 4, 2016, p.12.

4.     “Michael James Delligatti,” Devlin Funeral Home, accessed May 3, 2026, https://www.devlinfuneralhome.com/obituaries/michael-james-delligatti/.

5.     “Inventor of the Big Mac dies, aged 98,” BBC News, November 30, 2016, accessed May 3, 2026, https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-38162497.

For at least one day this week, aviator sunglasses become socially acceptable indoors, people suddenly feel the need for speed on their morning commute, and someone, somewhere, will absolutely attempt a volleyball reference they are too young to fully understand.

May 13 marks National Top Gun Day, an unofficial holiday celebrating the 1986 blockbuster film that turned fighter pilots into pop culture icons and permanently convinced generations of movie fans that motorcycles, leather jackets, and dramatic runway walks were essential personality traits.

The holiday arrives this year with even more momentum as both Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick are returning to theaters for a limited anniversary run beginning May 13 to celebrate the original movie’s 40th anniversary.

That means Americans this week may once again find themselves explaining to younger family members why everyone over age 35 instinctively says “Talk to me, Goose” during minor inconveniences.

The original Top Gun, released in 1986 and starring Tom Cruise as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, became one of the defining films of the 1980s. The movie reportedly boosted Navy recruitment, made aviator sunglasses wildly popular, and helped launch one of the most recognizable soundtracks in movie history.

Even people who have never seen the film somehow still understand the references. “Danger Zone” starts playing, and suddenly everyone feels qualified to land fighter jets.

The holiday itself has developed a surprisingly loyal online following over the years, with fans celebrating by rewatching the movies, quoting dialogue, and debating whether Top Gun: Maverick somehow managed to outperform the original nearly four decades later.

Social media users have already begun posting their plans for the annual celebration.

After more than 30 years of serving as a District Attorney Law Clerk, Assistant District Attorney in East Baton Rouge Parish, and currently as Winn Parish District Attorney,  Chris Nevils has announced that he will retire at the conclusion of his current term, ending, for now, his service as an advocate for the people of the State of Louisiana and, most importantly the great people of Winn Parish.

First elected in 2006, District Attorney Nevils took on tough challenges as a perceived outsider. Nevils worked tirelessly to change the his public perception along with the perception of a parish where “justice” often depended on your surname rather than the strength of the evidence.   Committed to the City of Winnfield in the parish where he and his wife, Kim, raised their two children, Kate and Emily, he always tried to meet as many people from all walks of life in making the parish his home, forever.

By treating all the citizens of the parish fairly and with respect, Nevils has served the community with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering resolve to upholding the rule of law. “In every case, I take the decision to prosecute someone very seriously and have only done so where a case can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt with evidence produced after a solid investigation,” said Nevils.

Over the course of his tenure, the office has achieved significant milestones, including the successful ridding of hundreds of thousands of dollars in inherited office liabilities at no additional expense to the public. The DA emphasized that “the office continues to operate on mid-2000’s level funding while still attracting the best prosecutors and support staff to be found in a any judicial district.  These reforms improved transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility within the office, helping restore public trust and ensure long-term operational stability.” Most recently, Nevils successfully represented his office and the Winn Parish Police Jury in securing a settlement against opioid manufacturers.  The non-public funds resulting from the settlement are already being put to good use through partnerships with local law enforcement for undercover drug investigations, improved efficiency and cooperation between agencies using cutting-edge technology, and creating a standardized system for offenders seeking substance-abuse and mental-health treatment for non-violent offenders.

In addition to his leadership in the office, on the appointments of three different Governors, District Attorney Nevils served on numerous boards and commissions including the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement, the Louisiana Sentencing Commission and the Central Louisiana Juvenile Detention Facility Board.  He was a frequent lecturer and presenter on criminal justice issues, sharing his expertise with legal professionals, policymakers, and community organizations.  He further served with distinction on the Board of Directors for the Louisiana District Attorney’s Association.  His leadership efforts were recognized by the Louisiana State Police when he was named Prosecutor of the year in 2014.  Finally, Nevils worked closely with state legislators to help develop and advance laws that benefited the local community (such as transferring unspent criminal-court funds to the parish general fund) while contributing to broader statewide public safety and justice initiatives.  Whenever asked, he served on study committees for the Louisiana State Law Institute, bringing his insight and ideas to help craft legislation promoting public safety and accountability for offenders.

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the citizens of Winn Parish,” said District Attorney Nevils. “I am deeply proud of the work we’ve done to strengthen public safety, support victims, and ensure fairness and accountability in our justice system and remain truly optimistic that a new generation of young leaders will make the sacrifices that come with public service to continue these efforts.”

“Throughout his tenure, Chris has been a tireless champion and advocate for victims and always sought justice.  He is a true leader in the criminal justice system,” said Billy Joe Harrington, District Attorney for Natchitoches Parish.

As the office prepares for this transition, District Attorney Nevils shared that his decision to retire is driven by a desire to spend more time with family and to become more actively involved in local community issues outside of public office.   Serving as counsel for the Winn Industrial Development Board, Nevils wants to continue to attract large economic projects to the parish to generate more employment opportunities and try to reverse the population loss affecting all rural parishes in Louisiana.

Chris Nevils expressed confidence and heart-felt pride in the continued strength of the DA team. “The attorneys, paralegals and support-staff professionals in this office are among the finest in the State of Louisiana.   They are provided with the best continuing education, technology and cross-training which allows the office to run with fewer employees.  They believe in treating everyone fairly and all are experts at helping people (whether victims, their families, or the families of criminal defendants) get through difficult and often impossible situations.   I have full faith they will continue to serve this community with excellence.”

The current term ends in January, 2027.  Nevils concluded by noting that there are several younger but highly experienced attorneys who would be up to the physical and mental challenges of serving as District Attorney and hopes that they will consider running.

Winn Parish Fire District 3 responded to 13 total incidents throughout the month of April, according to the department’s latest monthly activity report.

The district’s call volume for April was led by vegetation fires and emergency medical service assists, which accounted for eight of the total 13 calls. Crews responded to four vegetation fires and provided assistance on four EMS calls during the month.

Other activity included:

• Two motor vehicle accidents

• Two natural gas leaks

• One rubbish fire

The department released the data as part of its ongoing commitment to community transparency and safety. District officials expressed gratitude for the community’s continued support, noting that collective awareness helps build a safer parish.

Winn Parish Fire District 3 operates under the mission that “your safety is our mission.”

WINN PARISH, La. — Residents across Winn Parish should prepare for a wet and stormy pattern through midweek, with multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms expected before conditions gradually improve heading into the weekend.

According to the latest forecast, Wednesday will begin with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before more widespread rain and thunderstorms develop after 1 p.m. Temperatures are expected to reach a high near 86 degrees, with south winds between 5 and 10 mph and gusts up to 20 mph. Rain chances are elevated at 80%.

Storm activity is expected to continue through Wednesday night, with showers and possible thunderstorms likely before 1 a.m., followed by another chance of rain and storms overnight.

Temperatures will fall to around 60 degrees, with precipitation chances remaining at 80%.

On Thursday, unsettled weather continues with a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms under mostly cloudy skies. Cooler temperatures are expected, with highs only reaching around 72 degrees.

A lingering chance of showers and thunderstorms remains in the forecast for Thursday night, with mostly cloudy conditions and overnight lows near 55 degrees. Rain chances decrease to 30%.

By Friday, conditions begin improving with only a 20% chance of isolated showers. Partly sunny skies return, along with a daytime high near 76 degrees.

Friday night carries another slight chance of showers and possible thunderstorms after 1 a.m., with partly cloudy skies and overnight lows around 59 degrees.

The weekend forecast appears more favorable for outdoor activities. Saturday is expected to be mostly sunny with just a 20% chance of isolated showers and a high near 81 degrees. Saturday night will remain partly cloudy with lows around 62 degrees.

Looking ahead to Sunday, warmer temperatures return with a high near 87 degrees. A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms is forecast under mostly sunny skies.

Residents are encouraged to stay alert for changing weather conditions during the midweek storm period, especially Wednesday and Wednesday night when the heaviest rainfall and strongest thunderstorms are most likely.

After a stormy stretch, Winn Parish can expect improving conditions and warmer temperatures as the weekend approaches.

WINNFIELD, La. — The Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office has announced details for its upcoming annual Tax Sale, scheduled to take place later this month at the Winn Parish Courthouse.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the tax sale will be held on May 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the courtroom of the Winn Parish Courthouse.

Officials say registration for interested bidders will begin on May 25, 2026. Those wishing to participate may complete registration by either calling the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office or visiting the office in person.

The annual tax sale provides an opportunity for qualified bidders to participate in the purchase of tax-related properties or liens in accordance with Louisiana law.

Sheriff’s Office officials encourage interested individuals to complete registration ahead of the sale date and obtain any necessary details regarding bidding procedures, requirements, and eligibility.

For additional information or to register, residents and prospective bidders are advised to contact the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office directly.

Officials say the annual tax sale is an important part of parish tax administration and helps address delinquent property taxes while maintaining compliance with state regulations..

Hand in Hand Hospice Care will host a free, no-commitment informational meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Faith Baptist Church. The session is designed to help individuals and families prepare for future health challenges by focusing on a plan for comfort, quality of life, and dignity.

Attendees will learn about the services hospice care provides, who qualifies for care, and the steps required to begin receiving services.

WHAT: Hospice Informational Meeting
WHEN: Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
WHERE: Faith Baptist Church, 1145 Horseshoe Road, Winnfield, LA 71483
COST: Free

EVENT DETAILS: * A meal will be provided for all attendees.

• The meeting is open to the public with no obligation required.

CONTACT: Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by calling or texting 318-302-0477.

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