No Struggle, No Progress
No Struggle, No Progress
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Five of the 50 U.S. metro areas with the highest violent crime rates are located in Louisiana, with Monroe ranking as the most dangerous according to a report published by USA Today. In Monroe, more than 2,600 violent crimes were reported in 2020, translating to 1,309 per 100,000 people, which is over three times the national violent crime rate. Other Louisiana metro areas with high violent crime rates include Alexandria, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport. Monroe continues to be plagued by gun violence, resulting in an alarming rate of...
Disclaimer: All Persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Every one of us could be a victim of a crime at any time. Being a victim of a crime can happen at any age. It tears at the fabric of a society when the victim is a child or an elderly person because they are seen as the most vulnerable among us. When it happens to a child or minor, it takes away their innocence. A Monroe man is behind bars after a minor that he allegedly raped called 911 to report the incident. The Ouachita...
OMCAP Food Bank Distribution The Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana is now partnering with OMCAP for food distribution to be held at the Monroe Civic Center, 401 Lee Joyner Expy in Monroe, LA on June 12, 2024, 9:00 AM - 12:00 NOON. OMCAP is accepting applications. Please see CSBG staff to sign up for commodities - first come, first serve. Clients must sign up in person with a photo ID and utility bill....
For Black consumers and first-time homebuyers, saving for a down payment can be a significant hurdle. While many families and individuals can manage a monthly mortgage, they often lack the upfront resources for a down payment. However, crucial programs are available to assist homebuyers with their down payments, making homeownership more accessible. These programs can come in the form of loans or grants, depending on the specific program. Eligibility for these programs can differ. Often, earning no more than 80% of the area median income is...
True Vine Baptist Church in Monroe LA observed their Pastor's 5th Anniversary Pastor Stonewall Hunter Jr. and First Lady Kristi Hunter on Sunday June 2, 2024. Approved by God, special guest was Rev. Eddie Douzart lll New Morning Star Baptist Church in Bastrop LA Escorts of honorees were Rev. Thomas and Sister Norma Norman. Sister Cathy Cherry served as mistress of ceremonies....
The public is hereby legally notified that individuals must stay at least 25 feet away from law enforcement officers when they are handling a potential crime scene. The Louisiana Legislature passed a bill, signed into law by Gov. Jeff Landry, making it a misdemeanor to be within 25 feet of officers after being instructed to get back. In this day and age, people are naturally drawn to scenes involving police officers, not necessarily to interfere, but as "concerned observers." The public may...
Non-profits partner to help children with sickle cell disease get faster, better emergency care. Every parent of a child with sickle cell disease dreads a visit to the emergency room during a sickle cell pain crisis. Not only is their child in extreme pain, but they also know that getting emergency department care can be a battle. To help children with sickle cell disease (SCD) and their families receive better care in the emergency department (ED), MedicAlert Foundation and Northeast Louisiana...
By: Before Don Cincone ever heard the words "art" or "artist," he knew he wanted to pursue something creative in his life. His home, shared with his wife Betty, is adorned with Cincone's artwork spanning decades. "I can't recall a time when I didn't want to draw pictures," reminisces Master Artist Don Cincone about his lifelong passion. Born in Alto, LA, on July 2, 1936, Cincone (born Donald Ray Wills) realized early on that art often took a backseat in people's minds. "People didn't grasp the...
For Black consumers and first-time homebuyers, saving for a down payment can be a significant hurdle. While many families and individuals can manage a monthly mortgage, they often lack the upfront resources for a down payment. However, crucial programs are available to assist homebuyers with their down payments, making homeownership more accessible. These programs can come in the form of loans or grants, depending on the specific program. Eligibility for these programs can differ. Often, earning no more than 80% of the area median income is...
NOVA Workforce Institute of Northeast LA cordially invites attendees to the Class of 2024 Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, June 13, 2024, 6:00 PM, at Greater New Antioch Baptist Church, 301 Sherrouse Ave., Monroe, LA. For more info contact Sherry Foy, (318) 855-1923 or [email protected]....
HAMPCO Inc. is hosting our 14th Annual Financial Literacy Graduation ceremony for HAMPCO 's Financial Literacy Class, which will be June 29, 2024, at 9:00am, at Mt. Zion Family Life Center. This event marks a significant milestone in the lives of our graduates, who have worked diligently to protect and to improve their own financial knowledge. We would really appreciate it if the community would come out to support these graduates.Through the efforts of Senator Katrina Jackson-Andrews, District 34 the classes were able to be...
Willie Mae Jackson Coleman departed this life to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at the age of 81. She had been a resident of the Booker T. community in Monroe, LA since 1965. She was the mother of James Earl Jackson, Sr., the late Rev. Eddie Ray Jackson, and Michael Dewayne Jackson. A faithful member of Zion Spring Missionary Baptist Church from 1970 until her passing, she was known for her exceptional cooking skills. Willie Mae retired on December 31, 2021, at the age of 79, after...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. It must have been karma. How else could someone allegedly commit a crime against someone and then almost instantly need their help? According to the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office (OPSO), such an incident occurred on May 19, 2024, when deputies responded to gunshots. Authorities reported that the chain of events began when the suspect, Makiejaalliuna Vallaire, traveled to Monroe from Acadia with others, bringing a female...
Piney Grove Male Chorus in Monroe LA will celebrate their 12th Anniversary Sunday June 9, 2024 at 6pm at Piney Grove Baptist Church at 712 S. 14th St. in Monroe LA. All groups are welcomed to join the celebration. Rev. Parnell Ford Pastor....
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A local man is behind bars because he allegedly refused to understand what "no" means. In Louisiana, sexual assault and domestic abuse have high rates and continue to rise, as evident by a recent incident. Spencer D. Simon, 32, was taken to Ouachita Correctional Center (OCC) on a charge of rape. According to Monroe Police (MPD), detectives began an investigation on May 20, 2024, into an alleged sexual encounter that occurred at...
The Ellis administration is attempting to get the lame-duck Monroe City Council to pass a tax renewal before new council members are seated on July 1, 2024. At Tuesday night's, May 28, 2024 council meeting, an ordinance sponsored by the Ellis administration was introduced to call for a special election to authorize the rededication, levy, and collection of a special tax, applying to the Louisiana State Bond Commission. The introduction of the ordinance appeared to come as a surprise to those in attendance, prompting questions from concerned...
Zai'lai' McGinnis is a bright, ambitious, and remarkable 6-year-old student. She is the daughter of Mr. Frederick and Mrs. Tamara McGinnis, and the granddaughter of Diane Bush, the late Terry Taylor, and Mary and Johnny Powell. Zai'lai' enjoys singing, dancing, watching YouTube, jumping on her trampoline, and playing with her sister and friends. At Minnie Ruffin Elementary School in Monroe, LA, she has maintained a 4.2 grade point average and has been on the Principal's List all year. She...
On Tuesday, May 28, 2024, St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Monroe, LA, honored those who are always on duty, serving as church ushers, during the 64th Senior Usher Anniversary. Churches from across the city gathered for the event, where Pastor Deandre Jackson delivered a powerful sermon. Dr. Helen James uplifted the congregation with her inspiring song, "Don't Let Nothing Shake Your Faith!"...
Cassandra Osborne Wiley is a 1982 graduate of Weston High School and a 1985 graduate of Ruston Vo-Tech, now known as Louisiana Delta Community College. She is the national recipient of the National Association of Directors of Nursing Administration (NADONA) award, the leading organization for nursing leaders and educators in post-acute and long-term care. As a nurse leader, Cassandra manages over forty nurses and is dedicated and devoted to her profession. She has a thorough understanding of...
The Ouachita Parish Democratic Party Executive Committee (DPEC) for 2024 was sworn in on Friday, May 10, 2024, at the Mount Zion Baptist Church Life Center, located at 211 Mount Zion St., Monroe, LA. The Honorable Judge Frederick Douglas Jones officiated the ceremony....
MedicAlert Foundation, in collaboration with Northeast LA Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation (NELASCAF) and supported by the LA Department of Health announces the launch of a pilot program aimed at improving emergency care for children with sickle cell in Northeast LA. In a pain crisis, opioids are often needed to relieve the child’s suffering while face extended wait for care or ineffective lower dosages. The pilot program seeks to break down these barriers by providing enhanced support and resources to Sickle Cell patients and their families by i...
True Vine Baptist Church honored their 2024 Graduates and Scholars on Saturday, May 18, 2024 with a program and banquet. Medallions and Scholarships were awarded during the service. The 12th annual Jesse C and Erma L Williams Scholarship was presented to Tamayra Robinson and Ty King. This year's recipients are pictured with members of the Williams Family....
Carver-McDonald Branch Library at 2941 Renwick St., Monroe, LA will host a community program on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with presenter Chris Lewis, owner of the Coney Island Connection and Bigman Trucking. Meet Chris Lewis, a dynamic force at 34, not just as the successful owner of Coney Island Connection and Bigman Trucking but as a relentless seeker of impact and adventure. Graduating from the University of Louisiana at Monroe's School of Private Investigation, Chris is now...
My journey to becoming a veterinarian was not an easy one. Growing up, I always knew I loved animals, but I had never seen a veterinarian before, especially one that looked like me. I did not have a mentor growing up or anyone in the profession to show me the ropes and guide me to my destiny. But nevertheless, I still managed to accomplish my goals and learned how to climb the veterinary ladder through trial and error. After graduating from Louisiana Tech University in Spring 2017, I applied for the first time to LSU School of Veterinary...
One of the happiest moments for parents and their children is high school graduation, creating lifelong memories. Unfortunately, some high school memories are best forgotten. A local mother and her daughter spoke to the Monroe Dispatch about two alleged incidents at Neville High School in Monroe, LA, that have profoundly affected them. The mother chose to speak out only after her daughter graduated, fearing earlier disclosure might have jeopardized her daughter’s credits and diploma. The mother alleges the first incident occurred on S...
Entergy hosted its 74th annual BBQ and shrimp boil for media outlets at Kiroli Park Lodge in West Monroe on Thursday, May 16, 2024. The event, which featured food, fun, and fellowship, was a way for Entergy to thank the local media for their support. Photo: Entergy employees, Arnetra King, Amanda Edge, and Heather Frost...
Young Black children face an alarming risk of dying at the hands of others, both known and unknown. Those responsible for children and grandchildren must step up to keep a watchful eye on their loved ones. This troubling trend of shootings will not go away anytime soon, and vigilance is a necessity. Many young people only know how to settle disputes in one way, and when the trigger is pulled, it's too late. This shooting epidemic is happening throughout Black communities in the United States. Si...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. On March 30, 2024, around 5:20 PM, a shooting occurred at Bernstein Park on Wilson St. in Monroe, LA. According to Monroe Police (MPD) , two victims were found and transported to a local hospital for treatment. During their investigation, officers questioned Laz'beon D. Harris at a later date, who allegedly had knowledge of the other suspects. Before the shooting, multiple suspects arrived at a gas station on Jackson St. in a red Nissan Versa, which then headed towards Wilson...
By Eddie D. Gillis There are reports that officials of the Monroe Police Department (MPD) are seeking to lower the age limit for police applicants to age 19, the Monroe Dispatch has learned. Though no official announcement has come from MPD or the mayor's office, some action appears to have taken place. Reports indicate that a meeting was held on Friday, May 17, by the Monroe Fire and Police Civil Service Board, where the age consideration was on the agenda. According to sources, the item had li...
The PROPEL Center, a first-of-its-kind innovation hub designed to support and advance the work of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) nationwide, announces the hiring of executive-level leaders and key program directors including Michael Johnson, Chief of Staff; Dr. Glen Spencer, Jr., Chief Development Officer; Dr. Dione Simon, Chief Impact and Programs Officer; Ashley Sutton, Director of Strategic Partnerships; and Darryl Perkins, Director of Work-Based Learning. Chief Impact...
Appellate Court Judge Marcus Hunter has officially declared his candidacy for the newly drawn Louisiana Supreme Court seat. Judge Hunter's extensive legal career includes serving as an attorney for Legal Services, a Public Defender, a State Representative, and a Trial Court Judge before his current position on the Second Circuit Court of Appeal. In his candidacy announcement, Judge Hunter stated: "Whether returning home after law school to join the family practice, assisting at Legal Services,...
True Vine Baptist Church in Monroe, LA, where Rev. Dr. Stonewall Hunter, Jr. is pastor, held its Graduate/Baccalaureate Program on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Dr. Kierra Coleman delivered the graduate address, and Pastor Hunter gave an inspirational message titled "The Next Level." London Adams, Magnum Cum Laude from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, delivered a warm welcome. Devotions were led by graduates Reagan Wilson and Ty Martin....
MedicAlert Foundation, in collaboration with Northeast LA Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation (NELASCAF) and supported by the LA Department of Health announces the launch of a pilot program aimed at improving emergency care for children with sickle cell in Northeast LA. In a pain crisis, opioids are often needed to relieve the child’s suffering while face extended wait for care or ineffective lower dosages. The pilot program seeks to break down these barriers by providing enhanced support and resources to Sickle Cell patients and their families by i...
Carver-McDonald Branch Library held a gardening program on how to prepare your garden for Spring planting. The presenter was Horticulture Kerry Heafner, LSU Ag Center with the community participation. The program was held on Thursday, May 16, 2024. You missed a treat! Patrons were treated to a delicious cupcake from 'Nothing Bundt Cakes' and beautiful flowers to put out in their yard. Patrons discovered, gardening is a great hobby to take up; it gets you outside, burning calories, and produces...
The City of Monroe, in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies Cities for Financial Empowerment, CityStart Financial Empowerment Summit as the final event in the City Start grant community engagement. This event was facilitated by Katrina Branson, was aimed at fostering discussions on financial empowerment and wealth equity in the black community on Friday May 3, 2024, at The Terrace, on the 7th floor of the Library on the University of Louisiana Monroe's campus. The CityStart Financial...
Ain't no player like "Boss Player" who adds another year to the list on Thursday May 23. His funkentelechy is great while being in the sixth quarter, still sticking and kicking. Happy birthday Don "Boss Player" Hill, the pleasure is all-world for the one and only! Love all your family and Pat!...
The Renwick St. Crosswalk, a pedestrian crossing designed to enhance safety along the busy U.S. Highway 165 bypass in Monroe, LA, was recently repainted. This update comes after numerous fatalities occurred at this location. However, taxpayers and residents are raising concerns about the substantial cost of the refurbishment and how it does not accommodate people in wheelchairs and on bicycles. Previously, the crosswalk featured lights to aid nighttime visibility, but these were not replaced...
It has been five years since local resident Ronald Greene allegedly died at the hands of Louisiana State Troopers on a dark Union Parish road. For five long years, a family has been waiting for any semblance of justice so its members can finally feel a sense of closure in a case where others like Greene, who were killed under highly questionable circumstances, have seen those convicted in a court of law. America has a legal system that is, for lack of a better word, complicated, and some may won...
Mother's Day is a day that holds special meaning for millions, as it is a day we honor the mothers who are no longer with us. Going to the graves of loved ones is a solemn occasion where we talk to our mothers as if they are still alive. It is the serene atmosphere of watching others doing the same thing that gives the day special meaning, honoring and showing love to those who will forever remain in our hearts. A former Monroe city councilman has another reason why he will not forget Mother's...
Services for John Henry Alston, a one hour celebration has been set to honor John Alston on Memorial Day Monday, May 27, 2024 at 12 noon ,at Heavenly Gates Chapel 1339 Jewell St, in Shreveport, LA . John went home to be with the Lord on Monday May 6, 2024. Visitation is at the same location on Sunday, May 26, 2024 from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm....
By Eddie D. Gillis If Tuesday (May 14), 2024 night's meeting of the Monroe City Council was an indication of things to come, newly elected city councilmen Bishop Rodney McFarland and Minister Verbon Muhammad who are representing Districts 4 and 5 respectively have hit the ground running. Bishop McFarland addressed council members saying, that he and fellow councilman-elect Muhammad "are not coming on this council to tear down the council or tear down the mayor or tear down the city, or stop...
Wossman State Championship Lady Cats and Boys Basketball Teams were honored at "A Blacktie Basketball Awards Banquet on Friday May 10, 2024 at the George "Vamp" Belton Sports Complex at Wossman High School in Monroe LA. Wossman State Champions were honored and introduced to a packed banquet where family and friends were in attendance. B&B Caters of Monroe LA catered the event. Wossman Principal is Dr. Harrington Watson lll....
Ouachita Parish High School held its commencement ceremony for the class of 2024 on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at ULM Fant-Ewing Coliseum in Monroe, LA. During the event, 272 graduates were awarded diplomas. The school recognized 11 Valedictorians and 1 Salutatorian. Congratulations to all the graduates!...
United Theological Seminary and Bible College (UTS) will begin their summer session on Saturday, June 1, at 7:30am in the library at 905 Texas Av, Monroe, LA. Class meeting dates include: June 1, 8, 15, and 22. Registration is open now until June 1. Classes are in-person. The class schedule includes: Bachelor of Theology program: 7:30am- Philosophy of Religion--9:05am- English II-10:40am- Sunday School Administration Master of Theology program: 7:30am- Philosophy of Religion--9:05am- Research and Writing--10:40am- Principles of Learning and...
If you are looking for a safe place to create, learn and grow, then the Black Creatives Circle of North Louisiana is for you. Become a member today to join our community of creatives. May 2024 Meet Ups- The Black Creatives Circle of North Louisiana is committed to our mission to offer a safe space for collaborating, growing and learning. The way that we do so is by offering FREE monthly meet ups, that cover a variety of art mediums. Please connect with us on our Facebook page to stay up to date on all scheduled meet ups and more. Exhibition...
BB&O (Bayou Macon Beouf River and Ouachita Association) Annual Prayer Breakfast is Saturday May 18, 2024 at 9am at Cuba Baptist Church 343 Blankston Rd. in Bosco LA Rev. Dr. Samuel Toney Pastor. Special guest is Dr. Sophie Roberson Morning Glory Church of Jesus Christ in Monroe LA. BB&O Pastor John Perry Sr., Association President, Pastor Eugene Young, Vice President and Sister Rosie Horne Director...
Carver-McDonald Branch Library at 2941 Renwick St. in Monroe, LA held a community program on Thursday, May 9, 2024, "how not to be scammed!" with presenter, Detective Kwasic Heckard of the Monroe Police Department. discussed techniques that seniors can help protect themselves from current scams, home burglaries to cybercrimes. Common scams aimed at older adults include: Government impersonator scams, such as someone posing as a Medicare representative asking for account information. Fake...
For the past four years, Matthew Sims' life has been tumultuous. Following a domestic incident with a partner he believed would be in his life permanently, Sims has watched his once stable existence crumble. Previously thriving with a good job and close family ties, his life took a sharp turn following an arrest for alleged physical altercations with his partner. He has since been embroiled in a legal battle to clear his name, facing significant challenges from a prosecutor intent on preventing him from reclaiming his former life. Sims has...
The Eta Delta Lambda Chapter Education Foundation of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. hosted its 29th Scholarship Awards Banquet on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Monroe Civic Center B.D. Robinson Conference Hall in Monroe, LA. Distinguished Alphas present included Brother Anthony Jackson, Louisiana District Director, and Brother Jermaine Netherly, Southwest Regional Vice President. The event featured Brother Rev. Maurice White from Zion Travelers Baptist Church in Ruston, LA, as the banquet...
Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A man sought in connection with an April 22, 2024, shooting on Elm St. has been arrested and is now behind bars. According to Monroe Police (MPD), officers arrested Zacherian Logan as the suspect in the shooting, which caused bystanders, including adults and children, to scramble for safety. On the day of the alleged shooting, Logan and three other female suspects were seen searching for and surrounding a female victim, leading to a fight between the suspects and the victim. As...
