Local News - Miss-Lou Magazine

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

Mississippi returns a portion of the sales tax collected by cities and towns back to the communities. The Department of Revenue’s tax year starts in July. For the period July 2024-January 2025, Natchez received $3.3 million, down $74,000 from the year before, a decline of 2.2 percent.

Second ruling

Following Judge Drake’s order on March 8 that Truth Lounge was illegally denied the right to operate, the bar owners went back to the city to get a privilege license, and city officials promptly denied them a license. The city then asked the judge for a hearing for an emergency stay of her order. The judge held a telephone conference with the city attorney and the attorney for Truth. The judge then issued another order March 11 in even stronger language that the planning commission decision to revoke the special exception is void and the aldermen’s decision to sustain the planning commission is illegal. The city attorney argued that according to Miss. law, the judge’s order can only be enacted after a 10 day waiting period (MRC 62 A). Judge Drake rejected that argument saying 62A applies to trial courts only, and she heard an appeal from Truth. She did not conduct a trial. The city can file an appeal to her original order or the aldermen can rehear the special exception case. It is clear from the judge’s order that Drake expects the city to allow Truth to open now, while the city considers its options. The city latest effort was to try to slow the course of events a bit, using 62A and prevent the bar from an immediate opening. The city could ask for the appeals court for an expedited appeal hearing due to the potential for violence near the bar.

Concordia deputies arrested William Goodwin, 61, of Ferriday, for attempted homicide because he ran over a man with his vehicle and for battery for punching a woman in the face. In 2017, he was charged with two counts of cruelty to the infirm. Goodwin is being held in the parish jail.

In Monterey, when the fiber optic company was drilling to put its lines in, it broke many water lines bringing dirt into the system. JCP and Monterey Water had to fix the broken lines and then flush out the lines to get rid of that dirt. That process should be complete. If you are still having brownish water, then call 318-386-2232 and the company will send a service person to your house.

Filing now

April 1 is the Mississippi deadline to apply for or make changes to a Homestead Exemption. If you have had no changes to your Homestead Exemption status, then no action is required on your part. You will need to file a new application if you have had any of the following changes over the past year: Bought a new residence. Any change in marital status. Change in title to your land. Sold part of your land. Purchased more land. Became 100 percent disabled prior to Jan. 1, 2025. Became age 65 prior to Jan. 1, 2025. Became a service connected, totally disabled American veteran or are the un-remarried surviving spouse. This reminder only applies to applicants with a change or a first-time filer.. See your circuit clerk's office.

Dr. Roscoe Barnes of Visit Natchez, the city’s cultural tourism director, has been elected president of the Mississippi Historical Society.

Following Judge Carmen Drake’s decision that the planning commission and the aldermen did not follow the law, when they revoked Truth Lounge’s ability to operate, the city has several options: It can do nothing and allow Truth to reopen. It can appeal Judge Drake’s decision to the Mississippi Appeals Court. It can redo the hearing process and aldermen vote legally to revoke the special exception. Since the decision was just rendered on Friday, city officials have not yet met to discuss the situation. The city has 30 days to file an appeal.

Journey Wall and Jada Griggs

A former Concordia Parish deputy and a former jailer have been arrested for Malfeasance in Office. Arrested were Journey M. Wall, 26, and Jada Griggs, 28, both of Jonesville. Wall and Griggs were booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility. In late February, CPSO authorities were made aware of an incident in which Wall and Griggs knowingly and willfully withheld information relevant to an ongoing investigation. Probable cause was found to support the complaint, therefore, both Griggs and Wall were immediately dismissed from their posts and warrants were issued for their arrest on March 5. The Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office is working in conjunction with The Baton Rouge Police Department and The U.S. Marshals Service regarding this matter. This case remains under investigation.

Adams deputies arrested Dometrice Scott, Jr., 37, of Natchez, for possession of a weapon by a felon and possession of drugs. He has been previously arrested for six counts of vehicle theft, grand larceny, burglary and parole violation. Bond has not yet been set.

Myco Fort, 22, of Natchez, escaped from the Adams County jail on State Street. He was arrested for burglary in February and made a trusty, despite his record of other arrests for grand larceny and stealing a motor vehicle and possession of a stolen firearm. Apparently he was taken downstairs at 3:30 a.m. to mop floors. He was left unguarded and instead of mopping, he walked out the back door. Fort was recaptured by Adams deputies near Northgate Road the night of March 7. He will face additional charges for the escape the day before.

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Judge Drakes rules

On March 7, Judge Carmen Drake has ruled that the City of Natchez acted improperly and illegally when it withdrew its special exception, withdrawing Truth’s Lounge’s permission to operate its bar. Drake said the Natchez Planning Commission has no legal authority under statute or city code to revoke the special exception once granted. And when the aldermen voted to sustain the illegal act of the Planning Commission, they acted illegally and improperly as well. The city has the option to appeal the judge’s order, or it can allow Truth Lounge to operate. Drake’s decision is a narrow one. It does not specifically order the reopening of the lounge. She says the city must follow the law, and its own regulations, which it did not.

Bernadine Rogers of Woodville had been reported missing. Unfortunately, she was found dead on March 6. Authorities have not said anything yet about her cause of her death.

House remodeled

Natchez businessman J. T. Robinson has finished remodeling the exterior of the Nellie Jackson House. He plans to open a museum there, highlighting the history of Jackson's house of prostitution.

Womack and Sons has started construction on Vidalia’s new $8.95 million water plant. The new plant will increase the town’s capacity to produce more water for homes, businesses and industry. The plant will make it easier for the community to expand services should a major industry want to locate in the community. The new plant will be able to produce 2,000 gallons per minute.

Ferriday Mayor Alvin Garrison said the town will replace 20 old leaking fire hydrants.

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Hotel auction

Virgil Jackson’s Clarion Hotel is for sale, with the realtor using an auction to solicit bids. Jackson really kicked off the development of a totally inactive Vidalia riverfront. What followed was two large medical centers, another hotel and a RV park.

The Franklin County Lion’s Club has announced that this year’s St. Patrick’s Day will be on Monday, March 17. Line-up will begin at 5 p.m. in the high school circle, with the parade itself rolling through downtown Meadville starting at 5:30 p.m. There is no entry fee, but all floats, boats, pets, four-wheelers, church groups, clubs, bicycles, scooters, horses, walkers, vehicles and more must register in advance. Candy, beads, toys and throws are welcome to be thrown from floats and other riders in the parade. To register in advance, cal Jill Gilbert at 601-384-2330.

Ja’Nel’s Flowers in Natchez reported that they lost their roof in the March 4 storm. Even though the roof blew off, there was another complete roof under the one that blew off. The flower shop and bakery suffered no water damage and will be open as usual tomorrow.

Lawsuit vote

Adams County supervisors voted 2-1 to file suit against United Infrastructure, the company charged with picking up homeowners’ garbage. The suit would terminate the existing contract and seek damages. Supervisors Wilson and Middleton voted in favor of the motion and Gaines voted against. Hutchins and Gray were absent. Gray, Hutchins and Gaines may pass a new motion next meeting, dropping the proposed lawsuit before it is filed.

Adams deputies arrested Patrick Grayson, 37, of Sicily Island, for illegal deer hunting and hunting without a license. Bond has not yet been set.

Two subjects were arrested after police conducted separate sexual investigation cases with one case dating back to June 30, 2024. Cory Renfrow, 37, of Natchez, was arrested on two counts of sexual battery. Vidalia Police Investigator, Lt. Del’Marcus Johnson, started this investigation on Feb. 18, after a report of two victims being touched inappropriately by Renfrow. The victims reported these incidences that took place two years prior when they were ten and eight years old. He was taken into custody on Thursday, by Adams County Sheriff Deputies and extradited to Vidalia for booking. Charles Gooden Jr., 45, of Natchez, was arrested on one count of second degree rape. Lt. Johnson, started this investigation on June 30, 2024, after a report of a 16 year old being victimized by Gooden. Gooden took advantage of a relationship with the victim’s mother to gain access to the victim. A warrant was signed on July 1, 2024, for Gooden’s arrest. Officers spoke with Gooden shortly thereafter, and he stated he was going to turn himself in. However, Gooden went on the run. Gooden’s run ended when he was taken into custody last week by Adams County Sheriff deputies and extradited back to Vidalia for booking.

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Missing woman

The Wilkinson County Sheriff’s Office reports that the family of Bernadine Rogers, 60, has reported her missing and stated that she was last seen on Sunday March at 2985 Coons Mill Road at a birthday party for her father. She was wearing gold pants, red t-shirt, and white tennis shoes. Rogers drives a grey 2016 Honda Accord (4 door), MS License Plate WJC351 (Wilkinson County). If you have any information on the whereabouts of Rogers, please contact the Wilkinson County Sheriff Office at 601-888-3511.

Cornelius Baldwin, 39, of Natchez, was arrested by Adams deputies for failure to register as a sex offender. Baldwin was convicted in 2002 for aggravated assault with intent to rape. He is now being held in jail. Baldwin was previously sentenced in 2012 to three years for dog fighting. When he was in the county jail in 2013, he used a phone to call residents of Lagrange Subdivision, threatening them with retaliation for interfering with his criminal activities.

Adams deputies arrested Wayne Hammett, 64, of Natchez, for felony aggravated domestic violence. Bind was set at $15,000.

Drug bust

A little over two pounds of marijuana was recovered after a traffic stop by Vidalia Police. Vidalia Police Narcotics Officer, Lt. Mark Davis, observed a vehicle with no license plate along Carter Street. As he went to make a traffic stop, the subject exited his vehicle quickly and went inside the restroom of a local eatery. After detaining the subject, a search of his vehicle yielded over two pounds of marijuana and a digital scale. The subject was identified as Marcus Washington Jr., 26, of Ferriday. This arrest makes his eighth arrest for possession of marijuana. His previous marijuana arrests were on Sept. 28, 2016, Feb. 2, 2017, April 6, 2017, July 11, 2017, Oct. 5, 2018, Oct. 15, 2018 and Dec. 22, 2021. In addition to the marijuana charges, he’s been charged with unlawful carrying of weapons, evading arrest, resisting an officer, providing false information or identity, criminal trespass, criminal mischief, evading arrest with a vehicle or flight from an officer, assault, possession of a firearm while in possession of a controlled dangerous substance, no driver’s license and no seat belt. Washington was charged with no driver’s license, no license plate or failure to register a vehicle and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. His bond was set at $40,700.

The Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration will hold its 36th annual Celebration, taking place March 27-29. Using the theme “Follow the Frenchman through Natchez: The Farewell Tour of Lafayette,” this historical conference will celebrate the 200th anniversary of Gilbert du Mortier, the Marquis de Lafayette’s farewell tour of the United States. This two-and-a-half-day event will be done in partnership with the Sons of the American Revolution. It will feature a living history educational encampment for high school students, a series of expert lectures on the life and contributions of Lafayette to the history of our nation, a reenactment of Lafayette’s journey up the Mississippi and his stop in Natchez in 1825, and several events including a General’s Banquet with period music and dance.

The Adams County Airport Commission will open bids March 15 for a contractor to harvest 160 acres of its trees for pulpwood and hardwood. The Commission will use the revenues to supplement its budget.

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Missing man

The body of Ezekiel Conner, 41, was found in a ravine near his Laurel Hill Rd. home in Natchez. He had been missing for several days. Authorities haven’t determined a cause of death.

A 51-year-old man was shot and wounded at Holiday Apartments on Sunday, according to Natchez police. The wounded man was airlifted out of town for surgery, but his injuries were not considered life threatening. Police are looking for the shooter but have not identified him by name.

Natchez attorney Bryan Callaway has died at the age of 60. He served as a Sixth District Court attorney, did a term as City Attorney and had an excellent private practice. Bryan was known as friendly and outgoing and was one of Natchez’s most respected lawyers.

Cathedral dance team

The Cathedral Emerald Tide Dance Team has won first place, as national champion in the Small Kick Division and 5th place overall in the U.S. Dance/Drill Team Championship held in Orlando.

The Krewe of Phoenix Mardi Gras Parade will be held Feb. 28 at 6:30 p.m. in downtown Natchez.

LA DOTD said lane closures will occur along Hwy. 84 between Vidalia and Ferriday, as work crews do repairs between now and May 31. Slow-downs are expected.

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Scholar-athletes recognized

The Miss-Lou Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame’s gave its annual scholarship awards to senior high school scholar-athletes totaling of $10,000 in scholarships. Those receiving scholarships included: Aiden Roche of ACCS, Landry Freeman of Delta Charter School, Dajuan Culbert of Natchez Early College, Briasen McCraney of Vidalia High, Linel Scott Jr. of Ferriday High, and Frederick Lane, Cathedral High. Additionally, junior high and middle school scholar-athletes received acknowledgement for their achievement, including Robert Conerly of ACCS, Grayson Tosspon of Cathedral Middle, Tayton Fife of Delta Charter, Sherman Hawkins of Ferriday Junior High, Daylon Berry of Natchez Middle, and Enrique Garza of Vidalia Junior High.

The Concordia Parish Police Jury has contracted with a Lafayette company to remove lily pads from a parish pond south of Ferriday.

Wilkinson County supervisors heard that the guard rails on the Jackson Point Bridge should be completed shortly. Dirt work on the approach should then commence. The temporary bridge will be removed as the new permanent bridge can replace it.

Closed factory

Vidalia Mills is scheduled for sheriff’s sale April 9 for failure to pay its debt.

Natchez's consulting engineers filed an 11-page report with the mayor and aldermen outlining the problems with the asphalt and paving done on Homochitto and Canal Streets. While Mayor Gibson kept saying it was just a matter of a week or two before the contractor would redo the work, it turns out the contractor will not do a fix and the parties appeared headed to court, with each side claiming the other broke the original contract. Aldermen have directed James Johnston to help secure a new contractor to do the work.

Ferriday Mayor Alvin Garrison said notices of town water shut offs are posted on the town FB page. The town has shut off water at times for repairs.

River rising

The Mississippi River at Natchez will hit 48 feet flood stage within the next day or so. It should stay at 48 feet for a week and then begin a slow decline.

Natchez's consulting engineers filed an 11-page report with the mayor and aldermen outlining the problems with the asphalt and paving done on Homichitto and Canal Streets. While Mayor Gibson kept saying it was just a matter of a week or two before the contractor would redo the work, it turns out the contractor will not do a fix and the parties appeared headed to court, with each side claiming the other broke the original contract. Aldermen have directed James Johnston to help secure a new contractor to do the work.

Adams deputies arrested Clarence C. Wilson, 49, of Roxie with felony possession of drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was placed on a $25,000 bond and released.

Tire disposal

Wilkinson County supervisors have received a $20,000 grant from the Miss. Department of Environmental Quality for a used tire disposal site at the former Fruit of the Loom building on Hwy. 61 South. Supervisors are hopeful that the disposal site will discourage illegal dumping.

The Hotel Vue plans to make additional improvements. It will add a rooftop bar, 28 rooms, and reopen upscale dining. The company will add meeting space and an outside amphitheater for special events. Hotel Vue is co-owned with recently remodeled The Bridges, formerly Super 8.

Darvaughta Harrison, 31, of Natchez, was arrested for felon in possession of a firearm by the Miss. Highway Patrol. He has been arrested twice before by Adams deputies, again for felon in possession of a gun. Each time, he has bonded out. But he skipped a court date. So it is unlikely he will be released.

Shootings

Jeremy Wright, 34, of Centreville, was shot and killed in East Baton Rouge Parish, as he was helping a couple move their mobile home. Alex Senegal, 37, accused Wright of stealing drugs that were in the home. Senegal shot Wright eight times and fled. The shooter is still on the loose. Prayers for Jeremy and his family. Wilkinson deputies are investigating a shooting on Cherry Street. A woman was inside her home when multiple shots were fired into the home, and she was wounded. She was treated at Field Health, released and is recovering. Deputies did not say whether they have a suspect.

Tydreik Perkins, 24, of Natchez, was arrested in 2023 for two counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder. Now Adams County deputies have arrested him for possession of an illegal device to convert a pistol to fully automatic, possession of drugs and purchasing drugs. He was placed on a $500,000 bond.

American Insurance of Natchez confirms that one of their insured’s vehicles was hit and damaged by a Metro-United Infrastructure garbage truck here in Adams County. After claiming it was insured, the company admitted it is not, a violation of state law. Adams County supervisors have known for some time that the garbage contractor was running uninsured trucks here and that those trucks were not compliant with DOT regulations either. The county’s contract with the garbage hauler specifies it must carry the proper insurance both for vehicles and general liability. Since supervisors willingly allowed United to operate outside the law, there is the question whether county leaders negligence could lead to a suit against the county and the individual supervisors themselves, as they and taxpayers could be held liable for any serious injuries and damages resulting from an accident with the uninsured trucks. Supervisors have purposely allowed United to ignore and violate state laws and failed to enforce provisions of the contract that would protect the public from grievous harm. By Mississippi law, supervisors themselves are generally protected from lawsuits for their governmental actions. But that protection ceases if supervisors are negligent and willingly complicit in illegal activity.

New audit

The Silas Simmons audit for the Town of Vidalia for the fiscal year ending 6/30/24 shows the town complied with state law and its bookkeeping and accounting procedures met all state and federal rules and accepted accounting principles. In its governmental funds, the town spent $24.1 million but had revenues $31 million, thanks to $21.7 million in hydro royalties. This resulted in a $6 million surplus. Vidalia's largest source of revenues is from the hydro plant. It's second largest contributor to revenues is sales tax, bringing in $4.1 million. Vidalia spends $3.5 million on police, $2 million on the fire department and $886,000 on ambulance services. Another $1.9 million is spent on streets. It ended the fiscal year with $36.5 million in cash, of which $33.3 million is hydro money. In its enterprise-proprietary funds, the town generated $14.7 million in revenues from electricity, gas, water, sewer charges and spent $13.7 million to provide those services, with a positive net of $883,000. Again, like in previous years. Silas Simmons said there were absolutely no negative findings in the audit. The town is fully in compliance with bookkeeping and accounting laws, regulations. Mayor Buz Craft credited Debra Moak for the town's excellent bookkeeping and accounting record over the years. Moak is Vidalia's in-house CPA and accountant. He said her professionalism and expertise is invaluable, and she plays a major role in providing public accountability which taxpayers expect. See4 the audit: https://app2.lla.state.la.us/publicreports.nsf/0/bc8961c8c5f1239886258c13006b86a5/$file/00006a50.pdf?openelement&.7773098

Facing declining school populations and a budget crisis, the Catahoula Parish School Board voted 5-4 to close Central High School and Sicily Island School.

Zachary R. Nugent, 23, of Natchez, has been extradited from Dallas to face aggravated domestic assault charges here in Adams County for an attack he committed in 2024. Nugent held a knife to a woman’s throat, kicking, slapping and striking her in a rage for hours. He’s is currently being held in jail.

Lack of insurance?

Adams County supervisors had asked United Infrastructure to provide a copy of its vehicle insurance months ago. The trash pickup company did not do so. Supervisors learned recently that one of the company’s trucks failed to provide insurance after colliding with a passenger car in Adams County in January. Now the owner of United Infrastructure has allegedly claimed that his bigger trucks have insurance but his smaller pickups do not. It is a requirement of law that United has insurance on all its vehicles at all times and the insurance requirement is stated in the county contract. Supervisors were recently given a copy of a newly issued “binder of coverage” by United but that binder did not say which trucks were actually covered. After some discussion and investigation, supervisors concluded that binder was proof of some insurance but also proof that the company did not any vehicle insurance previously. Supervisors Gaines, Hutchins and Gray have remained steadfast in their support for Metro-United infrastructure, despite the company’s bankruptcy, poor service, lack of insurance and possible DOT violations.

Louisiana officials arrested Kyle Arceneaux, 21, in Concordia Parish on an outstanding warrant for unauthorized entry of a home, robbery and battery. He’s been charge with multiple felonies in the past and has been jailed in Vermilion, Lafayette and Jefferson parishes.

Southwest Miss. Regional Crimestoppers offers Up to $5,000 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the November 15 shooting death of 18-year-old Damron James Jr. on Collins Loop Road in Woodville. Call 888- 442-5001.

Ptobation revoked

Judge Carmen Drake held a probation revocation hearing today on Edward Wells, the unregistered sex offender recently captured by sheriff's deputies. His probation has been rescinded and he will serve five years in MDOC.

Concordia School Superintendent Toyua Bachus told her school board that a number of the district's school roofs are in poor shape and damaged from storms and emergency repairs are needed. The board agreed and inspections will be done. A priority list will be determine and the worst roofs repaired first.

The Jefferson County School Board announced an increase in the local supplement for educators to $1,200 for the 2025-2026 school year. This decision enhances the district's commitment to supporting teachers.

Parades comin

Mardi Gras parades are scheduled for Ferriday on Sunday, Feb. 23, at 6 p.m. and for Natchez on Friday, Feb. 22 at 6:30 p.m.

Red Oak Capital III and its investors have remodeled the Super 8 Motel near the bridges as a boutique hotel and actually renamed the property, “The Bridges.” The company owns both The Vue and The Bridges. Red Oak has provided financing and investor partnerships for hotels, shopping centers, apartment complexes, and other commercial-industrial properties.

Franklin County Sheriff’s Department Investigator Dewayne Whetstone is warning residents of a new scam going through the area. “This is a new scam going around,” Whetstone said. “You will be contacted and/or sent a text message saying you have interrupted cartel business and you owe money, or something along those lines. “Just block and number and move on. This is just another way to scare people out of money since the Arab phone calls are not working like they used to.”Whetstone reminds all residents not to give out any personal nor financial information by email or over the phone unless you are sure of who is asking for the information.

Franklin pageant

Makeznie Starks was named Senior Class Beauty while Carson Laird was named Senior Class Beau during the Franklin County High School Beauties and Beaus Pageant. Allie Shelton was named Most Beautiful while Paden Arnold was named Most Handsome. Senior Class runner ups were Beauties Meg Kelly, first runner up; A’Niyah Bee, second runner up; Marlee Tindle, third runner up; and Olivia Zumbro, fourth runner up, along with Beau Nathan Romero, first runner up.

Meadville Mayor Lane B. Reed will run unopposed while eight candidates will be vying for the five seats on the town’s Board of Aldermen. Eight candidates, including three incumbents, will be vying for the five seats on the Board of Aldermen. Incumbents Bart Jones, Kay Scott and Josh Scott will face challengers Sara Scott, Stephenie Sullivan, Davis Clanton, Tyler Blalock and Kaky Tindle in the June 3 election. The top five vote getters will be sworn in and office July 1.

Girl Scouts will be selling cookies Saturday, Feb. 22 at Walmart in Vidalia.

Hall Wilson Jr.

Hall Wilson Jr., of Oxford, and formerly of Natchez, has died at the age of 87. A graduate of Natchez High and USM, he was a real estate broker and appraiser in Adams County. Hall also served as a Natchez alderman for 23 years. He was known for his quiet demeanor and honesty as a businessman and public servant.

Adams deputies arrested Michael D. Blackwell, 58, of Natchez, for felony receipt of stolen goods. Bond was set at $20,000. In 2018, deputies arrested him for stealing $10,000 worth of items from area hunting camps.

Franklin and Adams deputies worked together to arrest Earnest Thomas, Jr., 36, of Roxie, as an unregistered sex offender. Thomas made threats against Sheriff Patten and Natchez police on social media in a live broadcast.

Successful D.A.

Tim Cotton began serving as Southwest Miss,. District Attorney in January 2024, showing a 270 percent increase prosecutions and trials completed, compared to predecessor Shameca Collins. Additionally, when cases are tried and felons convicted, the inmates are sent into the MDOC system. The state then covers the cost of the convicted instead of our county.

Wilkinson County Supt. Of Schools Shamekia Rankin reported that there are 1386 students in the district, up eight students from last month. She and the school board members took a tour of all four schools to assess facility needs. Rankin told the school board the district has had trouble finding a bus mechanic, which has delayed repairs on some buses. At times, Rankin and the board have differed on how the district should be run. She wants to replace some administrators and teachers who are not up to the job. But the school board has been cautious about personnel changes. Rankin has told the board in the past year that poor test results on the part of students are related to the absenteeism of staff. She feels some employees are taking advantage of sick and personal time and the result student performance is hurt.

The national poverty rate is 11.1 percent, which increased from 2020-2024. The pandemic shutdown contributed to a recession for the nation’s poor with major job losses followed by wicked inflation. Concordia Parish now has 34.8% of its residents living at or below the fedesal poverty line. It’s nearly impossible for a parish to grow and prosper when more than a third of its population live at a subsistence level.

Uncertified officer

Ferriday Police Officer Oliver Robinson II said felony theft and forgery charges against him in Arkansas have been dropped. Miss-Lou Magazine was unable to confirm his assertion as Arkansas officials would not release any information. Robinson had alleged that his ID was stolen and used in a crime. The Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement officials wrote us, saying that he was not a certified officer when he was working in Ferriday. New officers can work up to a year, without certification, as long as they obtain it within 12 months. If they move from one department to another, they still have a total of 1 year to get that certification. The education includes physical and firearms training as well as classroom education in police policies and procedures and Louisiana laws. Training is offered at several centers across the state, including some sheriff’s departments that specialize in the courses. Robinson never completed the training and had worked more than a year. He has never completed the firearms certification, which means he should be prohibited from carrying a firearm while on duty. It also means he should not have been placed on street patrol, making misdemeanor and felony arrests. Ferriday’s lapse in checking his credentials calls into question whether any or some of his ticketing or arrests were legal. Those arrests and any convictions could be challenged as unlawful and inappropriate as a result. Louisiana does allow uncertified officers who have gone past the year deadline to work in the office, jail or handle traffic and safety duties, like working school activities. However, under no circumstances, should they be ticketing or making arrests. Robinson and Ferriday should have made sure he and the town were compliant with state rules.

Louisiana is considering spending nearly $100 million to upgrade and build new jails, now that 17-year-olds are considered adults when they commit crime. The plans are to incarcerate more 17 year olds for serious felonies. Concordia Parish may receive $3 million for a juvenile jail to enlarge its current facilities in Ferriday to house 80 17-year-olds.

Wanted sex offender Edward D. Wells of Natchez was seen in the Duncan Park in downtown. But officers were unable to catch him.

Hunting deaths

Two men died while hunting in Wilkinson County in the last 45 days in separate incidents. William “D.D.” Sumrall, 81, of Woodville, died from his injuries, when he ran his ATV into a fence. When he failed to show up to meet a friend, Binky Knighton, knew where Sumrall was hunting and went to help him. Rescue efforts to save the man failed and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Arthur Wisner, 70, of Buffalo, was hunting and called family to help him drag and load up a big buck he had shot. When help arrived, Danny and Allen Wisner found Arthur dead on the ground. The coroner said he most likely died of a heart attack.

Concordia deputies made felony arrests. Brandon Farmer, 21, of Vidalia, was charged with probation and parole violation and aggravated assault. The state says he also owes $7,000 in back due child support. In 2022, he was arrested for aggravated burglary, possession of drug paraphernalia and introduction of contraband into a penal facility. In a separate arrest, Diana Kelly, 61, was arrested for attempted simple burglary. In 2020, she was arrested in Grant Parish for possession of drugs. Both Farmer and Kelly have bonded out.

Kevin Meirs has resigned as director of the Downtown Natchez Association. Mayor Dan Gibson and the board members of the association said he did an excellent job.

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Five-day week?

Concordia Parish Schools suffer from chronic staff absences, with only about 70 percent of employees showing up for work on a daily basis, according to the superintendent. Now Toyua Bachus is recommending that we his district return to a 5 day week, as going to a 4 day week has not improved staff attendance. Bachus said she wasn’t a believer in the four day week to begin with. But at the time, a survey showed 53 percent of students, parents and staff were in favor of a 4 day week. Now it’s up to the school board to determine whether the district should go to a 5 day week next year. The superintendent also said that Monterey is not a problem when it comes to staff absences, but the other schools in the district are a problem.

A vacant, lower floor apartment was purposely set on fire at Holiday Apartments in Natchez on Thursday. Natchez firefighters responded and put out the small fire. And the one apartment sustained significant damage. The fire was serious enough to evacuate the building. There were no injuries. The fire department will conduct an arson investigation.

A flood advisory is in effect for Adams and Wilkinson counties and Concordia Parish until March 11. Expect the Mississippi River to rise to at least 44 feet. An advisory is not a warning.

Monroe Sago (photo from Listenupyall.com)

The Rhythm Night Club Memorial Museum has opened a theater room where visitors can watch recordings of the people who survived the fatal fire of April 23, 1940 – the deadliest club fire in the nation’s history. Monroe Sago, co-owner of the museum with his wife, Betty, recently cleared out his office in the back of the building and turned it into a 20×12 theater that can seat 15 people. “We’ve been open since 2010, and we felt it was time to create space where our visitors can come and hear these stories,” Monroe said. “We have video recordings of some of the survivors. These people need to be seen and heard.” The Rhythm Night Club Museum is located at 5 St. Catherine St. on the exact site of the original building. The survivors are the people who visited the club on the night of the fire where more than 200 people died, including Walter Barnes and members of his band, a jazz orchestra, known as the Royal Creolians.

Adams deputies arrested Victoria D. Byrnes, 38, of Jonesville, for burglary of a dwelling and grand theft of items worth $1000-$5000. She was released on bond.

Vidalia is expected to increase water rates, with the fee for homes increasing about $10 per month. Revenues for the water system are $478,000 and expenses $1.26 million. To qualify for grants, the system should break even or make a small profit.

Edward D. Wells

Adams County deputies are looking for Edward D. Wells, 53, a registered sex offender who has not complied with the registry law. Wells severely beat his girlfriend in 2001, throwing her off a cliff. She was paralyzed and never recovered from her injuries, dying two years later. He served 5 years in jail. In 2015, he committed a home invasion and robbery. In 2016, he and a new girlfriend enticed a man into a car at the Handy Pak in Ridgecrest, took the man to the levee, beat him, robbed him, stabbed him multiple times and left his victim for dead on the road. He and his girlfriend were captured a week later in Nashville in a stolen car. He was plea bargained to 8 years for the 2015-2016 crimes.

Mayor Dan Gibson said American Cruise Lines will biild its own dock at the end of Silver St. Gibson had secured the support of three cruise lines building dock facilities along with raising Silver St. But that deal fell apart when the cost too much to build and the city could not afford its share of the project.

Meadville Municipal Clerk Leslie Thompson has earned the designation of Master Municipal Clerk from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC), Inc. IIMC grants the MMC designation only to municipal clerks who complete demanding education requirements and have a record of significant contributions to their local government, community and state.

Horses to be removed

Ferriday aldermen directed the police chief to contact the horse owners using the former Kelly's Kid site. The property has become littered with trash, junk and horse manure. The chief will tell the horse owners to move their animals somewhere else.

TSW Design presented its results from the downtown Natchez traffic study. The company presented a summary to the aldermen, saying downtown streets have light traffic except Canal Street, which has moderate traffic. Speeding drivers are a problem. TSW and city leaders did not discuss in the open any controversial conclusions or recommendations during the meeting. Mayor Gibson said the study was initially commissioned because the city was going to microseal downtown streets. But the proposed cost for resealing was so high, the city scrapped plans for the resurfacing and restriping. The mayor believes the study recommendations have less value than before.The recommendations include two way traffic on Franklin and Main and four way stop signs instead of traffic lights in some locations because of the low traffic count. TSW gave advice on turn lanes, establishing bike lanes, revamping parking with specific ideas for State St., MLK, Broadway, Jefferson St., St. Catherine and Quitman Oarkway as well. The report is very thorough.

The Concordia Parish Sewerage Dist. No. 1 raised rates from $40 to $50 a month. The police jury voted to direct the district not to raise rates. Whether the jury has that authority is uncertain. A lawsuit or court order may help decide whether the December rate increase stays in effect.

Charlotte Book

Charlotte Book of Cathedral School has been chosen as Miss Natchez Hospitality. The pageant emphasizes intellect as well as beauty, personality and poise. The event is sponsored by Pretty Girls with Brains.

Adams deputies arrested Shakakumi Felton, 25, of Meadville, on an indictment for obtaining things of value by fraud. He was released on bond.

All classes in the Franklin County School District will be cancelled, along with all campuses closed, on Monday, Feb. 10 due to heavy numbers of students and staff illnesses. According to Superintendent of Education Chris Kent, there will be no school on Monday as the day will be used for a deep cleaning of all district buildings. Classes will resume at regular time on Tuesday, Feb. 11.

DNA search

Othram, a high tech DNA research firm from Houston, Texas, has been brought in to identify the remains of a man found near the Lutheran Church on Fatherland Drive in Natchez in March 2024. Authorities did find some identification near the remains, an ID of a 70-year-old man, but it is not known whether the ID is of the deceased or not.

Qualifying for this year’s municipal elections in Bude, Meadville and Roxie ends Friday, Feb. 7. Lane Reed has qualified to run for mayor of Meadville again.

Concordia Parish reports 6,512 workers with jobs, up two jobs from a year ago. The jobless rate is 5.7 percent.

Ben Ceasor

The vehicular homicide trial of Ben Ceasor, 30, of Ferriday, is scheduled to begin in March. It’s possible that the trial could be moved to another parish at the request of the defendant’s attorney. Ceasor is accused of killing Jason Tyson in a three vehicle wreck in March 2024, when the accused fled a traffic stop at high speed crashing his vehicle into Tyson’s and another vehicle in which three persons were injured. Even after the accident, Ceasor tried to flee again, hobbling on a broken leg 100 from the accident when he was captured by Concordia deputies. He remains in the parish jail pending trial. The trial was set for March 12 to consider charges of felony manslaughter, felony aggravated flight, felony hit and run, felon in possession of a weapon and other misdemeanor offenses.

The Mississippi Utility Commission has denied the rate request of Great River to raise water rates to their Morgantown customers. The customers are part of the old Huber water system, and Great River was planning to raise rates to beyond $160 a month, regardless of usage. Rates had been $51 per month and then were increased to $108 per month in recent years. For now, the rate will stay at $108.

A Legislative Legislative Audit shows Jonesville massively in the red, following in the footsteps of the school board, police jury and sheriff’s office, which all face budget crises. Tax collections cannot cover the cost of local government operations.

Biscuits & Blues sold

After owning and managing Biscuits & Blues for nearly three decades, Peter Trosclair has decided to retire and sold his Natchez restaurant to Rick and Ann Simmons. They own Slick Rick’s Cafe and Planet Thailand.

Natchez Little Theatre presents Driving Miss Daisy Feb. 6-9, Thurs.-Sat. 7:30 p.m. and Sun 2:30 p.m. General admission is $25, seniors (65+), military and students $15. For tickets visit https://www.thenatchezlittletheatre.com/or call 601-442-2233.

Even though Adams County has contracted to house its prisoners in Concordia, Sheriff Travis Patten continues to keep 15-25 inmates at the dilapidated county jail. These inmates kept in town include mentally ill criminals and those arrested for misdemeanors. That means the sheriff’s office still has a dozen jailers and three cooks on the payroll. Supervisors plan to have a meeting with Patten and Sheriff Hedrick in the next few weeks to discuss jail problems. Costs for the sheriff’s office continue to mushroom because taxpayers are paying to send inmates to two jails.

Possible help for police

Natchez aldermen are having discussions on whether to contract with a police investigative technology company. No specifics have been provided as to what the company actually does. The police department and the city have been unable to quell outbreaks of violence, including dozens of shootings that have occurred since 2010. Whether the company’s services would help is uncertain.

Another state tournament, plenty of trophies for the Franklin County Chess Program again. Members of the program traveled to the Mississippi State Individual Chess Championships earlier in January and came away with trophies from three different age groups. It marked yet another dominating performance by the local players in state competitions. In the High School Division, Will Hutchins finished first while Austen Johnson was second and Jaylen Marshall tied for third. In the Middle School Division, Jacory Walker ended up tied for second. In the K-3 Division, Summer Hunt won the state title, beating out teammate Cayden Stewart who finished second.

Vidalia police arrested Benjamin Huff Jr, 38, of Vidalia, for robbery, theft, false imprisonment and second degree battery. He was placed in the parish jail and then bonded out. Huff was arrested in 2010 for possession of drugs, possession of components to build a meth lab and possession of a weapon by a felon. In 2016, he was arrested for possession of drugs and in 2023 for theft.

Miss Vidalia chosen

Congratulations to Chesney Williams, Miss Vidalia 2025. She won Saturday’s pageant at the Vidalia Convention Center. The event was sponsored by the Vidalia Women's Club.

Natchez paid $39,000 for a traffic study of downtown. But it has not been released to the public. Some recommendations included eliminating stop lights and putting in four way stops and making Main and Franklin Streets available for two way traffic. Mayor Gibson said he has received mixed reviews from some residents on the recommendations when he spoke to them privately. Since the study was delivered in October, it is unlikely the study will be released unless someone makes a public records request. Aldermen Frazier and Irving have asked the mayor to release the report at the aldermen’s meeting. So far, the mayor hasn’t done so.

Five people have been charged with murder or accessories to murder for the New Year’s Eve shooting in cloverdale in Adams County. Shartavia Johnson, 25, of Vicksburg, and Aaeria Herron, 28, also of Vicksburg, were charged with accessory to murder. And the three actual shooters have been charged with first degree murder: Darryl Hurts Jr., 26, of Natchez, Jeremiyah Clark, 23, of Natchez, and Richie Jackson 24, of Fayette. The shooters are also charged with five counts of attempted murder, conspiracy, felons with weapons and other crimes for the Finger Lane attack that killed one and wounded five. Clark was previously arrested and in jail for two other killings. Adams deputies worked with other law enforcement agencies on the case, including Vicksburg, Natchez, Fayette, New Orleans and Zachary police, as well as Concordia deputies.

Harrisonburg killing

On the evening of Jan. 30, the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic violence incident on Phillips Road after receiving a distressing call reporting that a suspect had shot and potentially killed his mother. The caller advised that there was no response from the victim and that the suspect had also fired at his father when he attempted to intervene and diffuse the situation. Upon arrival, deputies encountered the armed suspect, who had barricaded himself inside the residence. Catahoula Parish Sheriff's Office Deputies made multiple attempts to establish communication and de-escalate the situation, but the suspect refused to surrender. After repeated commands were ignored, members of the Special Response Team (SRT) made entry. The suspect continued to resist compliance, leading SRT members to discharge their weapons. Medical personnel provided immediate aid, but the suspect succumbed to his injuries. The incident resulted in the deaths of 47-year-old Sherry L. Nugent and 23-year-old Tyler Cade Nugent, both residents of the home. CPSO Detectives are investigating the initial homicide, while a Multi-Jurisdictional Officer-Involved Shooting Team has been deployed to conduct an independent review of law enforcement actions. Louisiana State Police were notified but no assistance was requested.

Krewe of Phoenix Children’s Mardi Gras Walking Parade will be held Feb. 8 at 10 a.m., starting at Rosalie and ending at the bandstand on the bluff. Registration at 9 a.m. at Rosalie. No motorized, electric or battery operated cars and carts will be allowed.

Amanda Mercer has been selected as the 2025 Natchez School District Teacher of the Year. She teachers at McLaurin Elementary.

Safety first

Vidalia Police Chief Joey Merrill said their is a city safe place reserved parking that has 24-hour surveillance that can be used for those who exchange children, buy, or sell items. There are two designated spots located in the Vidalia Municipal Complex at 202 Vernon Steven Blvd. Reserved parking spots sre there for citizens to feel safe.

Tyren Ezell, 19, of Ferriday, has been arrested by Adams deputies, for felony possession of a stolen weapon, punishable by up to five years in jail. He remains in jail on a $20,000 bond. He could have been denied bond completely, as he was arrested for aggravated assault in Adams County in April 2023. In November 2023, he was arrested for aggravated assault and three counts of burglary.

A CPA audit for the Catahoula Sheriff's Office and Correctional Center for the fiscal year ending 6/30/24 shows serious accounting and bookkeeping problems and significant overspending. Revenues were $13.4 million and expenditures $15.4 million, with a nearly $2 million loss. The office was able to pay its bills by using existing cash balances that started the year with $2.8 million cash on hand and ended the year with just $836,000. Vercher Group CPAs noted six major negative findings and filed the report with the Legislative Auditor. Sheriff Toney Edwards responded to the findings, saying all the problems would be fixed in the current budget year.

New trucks

Adams County supervisors voted to purchase new trucks for Ricky Gray and Warren Gaines. Supervisors Hutchins, Middleton and Wilson do not have county vehicles. State law allows supervisors to have a county vehicle, though nearly all the mileage from Adams supervisors is personal versus business mileage. Supervisors voted 3-2 to buy the trucks and will spend an extra $10,000 over and above the state contract price to get the trucks right away. Gray and Gaines’s trucks now in service have only 70,000 miles each on them. Gray and Gaines should receive 1099’s for their trucks as the benefit they receive is mostly personal versus business and worth more than $10,000 each year. The 1099’s would declare the personal benefit as personal income and Gray and Gaines should be declaring that income on on their state and federal tax returns. IRS rules require that Gray and Gaines receive 1099’s for that extra undeclared and additional income. It’s mandatory not optional.

Jim Graves has been reelected board chairman at Trinity Medical. Hospital revenues have risen from $24 million to $31 million in three years, with net profits rising from $455,000 to $1.2 million in the same period.

Adams County deputies arrested Christopher Pittman, 36, of Natchez, for felony aggravated domestic violence. He is currently being held in jail.

Natchez woman murdered

Joshua Andrews, 29, has been arrested for the capital murder of Glynnis Jackson, 31, of Natchez. Andrews kidnapped Jackson Jan. 27 at the Nissan plant in Canton. As he sped away on I-55, he shot her multiple times. Jackson tried to save herself by jumping out of the vehicle but was killed when she was struck by another vehicle. Andrews was also charged with felon in possession of a weapon. He was denied bond Prayers for Glynnis and her family. She was the mother of three children.

Portions of Canal Street and nearly all of Homichitto Street will have to be repaved, as the asphalt mix or its application were not done properly. Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said it will be a week and a half before the asphalt plant reopens and corrective work can begin.

An area cattle company is offering a reward for information regarding a weekend shooting and killing of a calf. Stubborn Heifer Cattle Company is offering a reward of $2,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect or suspects involved in the shooting death of a 3-month-old calf owned by the company. The shooting took place in the late night hours of Friday or the early morning hours of Saturday. The incident took place on LT Martin Road. Owners of the company said they discovered the dead calf Saturday, with the mother of calf standing guard over it. Anyone with information is asked to call or text Cindi Redditt at 601-248-9583, Daryl Redditt at 601-248-6960 or call the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department at 601-384-2323.

New hotel for Franklin County

Destination by Hyatt will build and manage a 200 room hotel and conference center in 2027 at Lake Okhissa in Franklin County. The project will a include pool, restaurants, a 1000-person conference center and marina.

The Black River-Larto Water System has issued a System Wide Boil Advisory due to repairing a leak on the system main line.

Job growth

Fourth quarter Adams County job numbers show real growth, adding a surprising number of jobs in retail, services and medical sectors. The December figures show 10,410 people working. The new figures show the county has added 460 jobs since last year at this time. Unemployment remains low at 4.9 percent. The community remains poor, despite the good news, with 24 percent of adult residents 18-64 living below the poverty line. Adams County’s employed include many part time and low wage employed. And the percentage of 18-64 year olds who are unable or unwilling to work remains much higher than national averages. But for now, the trend line in jobs is good, a reflection that the community is recovering from its outward population migration due to de-industrialization, the catastrophic job losses during the COVID shutdown, and the up and down job figures of 2022-early 2024.

The 2025 Miss Vidalia Pageant tickets are on sale now! Get yours from your favorite contestant, women’s club member, or at RRUS & Co. Vidalia. Just $10 each (kids 10 and under are free) to watch these girls shine on Feb. 1 at the Vidalia Convention Center.

Concordia deputies arrested Jeremy Sykes, 40, of Monterey, for aggravated assault with a firearm, felon in possession of a firearm and illegal possession of body armor. He remains in the parish jail. Sikes received a five year on probation sentence in 2014 for possession of drugs and intent to distribute drugs. In 2013, he was charged with monetary instrument abuse and possession of drugs.

Jail design to be discussed

Kathryn Bryan’s Detention Operations is a jail consulting company from North Carolina, working with Adams County to sell the idea to locals that the community needs a new $10-$20 million jail and justice center. The company and Sheriff Travis Patten believe Adams County needs a 200 bed jail. A presentation is planned for Wednesday at 9am at the Natchez Grand Hotel. The public is invited. Supervisors have been slow to act on the idea of building a new jail, because the construction, operation and employee costs would necessitate a big property tax increase.

The Natchez MLK Day Parade was cancelled due to bad weather. Organizers will meet this week to determine whether they will reschedule or permanently cancel the parade for this year.

The Natchez UPS center on Highland Blvd. closing Feb. 1. Authorized pickup centers in the area still available. Delivery continues as usual.

Contact Us

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

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Peter Rinaldi, publisher
Clarisse Washington, editor emerita