My Appeal to the Voters of Louisiana

By Republican U.S. Senate Candidate John Fleming, M.D.

Now that the incumbent, Dr. Bill Cassidy, has been eliminated from the Republican Party’s runoff election, Louisiana voters need to decide who is the best candidate to represent them in the U.S. Senate.

All voters hear from my opponent, Congresswoman Julia Letlow, is that she “earned the endorsement of President Trump.” However, the endorsement was totally engineered by Governor Jeff Landry through the political back door.

What did Julia Letlow do to earn the endorsement? Was it her lifetime commitment as a liberal academic to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), policies that President Trump strenuously opposes? Was it her liberal voting record in Congress that was in direct opposition to the President’s Make America Great Again (MAGA) and America First agenda?

Was it her vote to fund the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) during the Biden administration that allocated taxpayer money toward abortions and gender reassignment surgeries overseas?

Was it her staunch support for Biden’s Green Energy and Climate Change agenda, including carbon sequestration?

Was it her record of incompetence, passing no bills into law during her five years in Congress?

In contrast to her history of liberalism and ineffectiveness, I offer Louisiana voters a record of achievement and honest service. I am a physician, military veteran, small business owner, and job creator. I served as a Louisiana Congressman, Deputy Chief of Staff to President Trump, and was Co-Founder of the House Freedom Caucus. Presently, I am honored to serve as your Louisiana State Treasurer.

My voting record is unabashedly conservative, staunchly supporting MAGA and America First policies. I totally oppose the Green Energy and Carbon Sequestration scams.

Unlike my opponent, whose campaign has been referred to both the Federal Election Commission and the Department of Justice for investigation and who admitted to late filings of 210 stock trades, there is no blemish on my record. In fact, as a Congressman, I did not engage in stock trading.

As Julia Letlow’s liberal views are being exposed, her poll numbers are falling. In recent days, her own pollster announced that I am leading in the polls.

The more she drops in the polls, the more desperate and unhinged her attacks become. Her campaign is panicking and issuing shrill statements to confuse and intimidate voters.

Fortunately, Louisiana voters are smart. They know Julia Letlow will not debate me because she cannot defend her record. They know that Governor Landry and his allies are pumping millions of dollars of dark money into this race to support her. These insiders oppose me because they know I cannot be bought, bullied, or bossed.

I am running for the United States Senate because Louisiana needs a senator who will challenge the political establishment, both in our home state and in our Nation’s Capital, not accommodate it.

Louisiana voters face a clear choice in this Senate runoff. You can continue sending politicians like Julia Letlow to Washington who only talk about conservative values, or you can elect me, a proven conservative fighter who has spent a lifetime defending them.

Throughout my career, I have stood unapologetically for limited government, fiscal responsibility, secure borders, energy independence, and the sanctity of life. I have consistently placed principles above political convenience.

Friends, as the only genuine MAGA conservative in the runoff, I am asking for your vote to become Louisiana’s next U.S. Senator.

Early voting continues through June 20, and Election Day is June 27.


Music, food, family fun at free Hall of Fame Rockin’ River Fest Friday, June 26

Music, food, family fun at free Hall of Fame Rockin’ River Fest Friday, June 26

Friday night is just right for some midsummer magic under the moonlight, free for all, during next weekend’s Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

Specifically, it’s going to happen next Friday evening into night, June 26, on the Rue Beauport stage bordering Cane River Lake smack dab in the middle of the City of Lights’ historic and beautiful downtown district. It’s the free Rockin’ Riverfest party presented by Rapides Regional Medical Center and Louisiana Propane Dealers.

The showcase act is Blue Crab Redemption, a Louisiana bred and fed alt blues/rock band whose major influences include Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, John Mayer, Stevie Wonder and The Eagles.  Their sound is a raw, classic vibe from ghosts of legends past blended with the soulful influences of the modern rock era.

The opener is Connor Martin, a country artist passionate about creating music that inspires and connects. Recently, Martin has opened for Easton Corbin, Tyler Farr, Parker McCollum, and Keith Urban.

Good times will abound during the riverfront concert, which runs from 6 p.m. to 10:30. One of the highlights: at 9:15, the Hall’s impressive Class of 2026 will be introduced on stage, and celebrated with a 10-minute fireworks show set to sports-themed music over Cane River Lake. Then the music cranks up again for another hour of festivities.

And yes, you read correctly. It’s free to attend.

There will be food and beverage vendors – Girlines Home Cooking, Soulful Wings, Summer Snow To Go and for the grown-ups, Maggio’s, on the riverfront, and of course, Front Street’s always fun watering holes/restaurants are just a few steps away.

MOVE Sport and Spine will set up their sharp-looking apparel line for sale, and Hall of Fame gear will also be available.

It’s family friendly. A free interactive kids zone presented by the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans will include basketball, football, baseball games and inflatables for all ages to enjoy. NSU athletes will be on hand to help the kids have all the fun, and give away some basketballs.

If you want to beat the summer heat and enjoy a tasty collection of Louisiana foods and specialty refreshments, hurry and visit LaSportsHall.com to snap up some of the fast-disappearing $100 tickets to the VIP Taste of Tailgating presented by Hancock Whitney.

That party runs from 7-10 p.m. in the air-conditioned comfort of Mama’s Oyster House and Blues Room that will provide exclusive access to the 12-member 2026 Induction Class.

Join the fun and celebrate some of Louisiana’s sports greats, for free, on Friday evening, June 26, in downtown Natchitoches.

Rockin’ River Fest is one of three free events during the Induction Celebration, starting with the free Welcome Reception Thursday evening, June 25, from 5-7 in the Hall of Fame museum. It’s not a dress-up event, just a come eat and meet the inductees and check out the world-class museum at no charge. The other free event is the Saturday morning June 27 Saints & Pelicans LSHOF Junior Training Camp for kids. Advance registration is necessary at LaSportsHall.com.

For information on all seven events during the June 25-27 Class of 2026 Induction Celebration, visit LaSportsHall.com or call 318-238-4255.

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Is it just me, or has the price of lunch out gotten downright foolish?

In a nutshell, yes.  To be fair to restaurants, though, it seems like the price of just about everything has gotten ridiculous.  In my research for this article, I found the website latestcost.com, which has a blog post on the average cost of a burger. The site has tons of pop-up ads that are a deterrent for spending much time delving into their blogs but I was intrigued with their vast list of average costs they discussed in their blog posts. According to their data, the average cost for just a hamburger with no sides or a drink is $3.50 – $12.00.  I don’t know about where you live, but in my neck of the woods, $3.50 is going to get you a burger that you would normally find in a kid’s meal with little to no nutritional value.  According to the website datassential.com, burger prices have risen by 14% since 2023 while beef production costs surged 32%. The average net profit margin a restaurant makes on each hamburger sold is 10 – 15% for a regular burger and 12 – 18% for a gourmet burger. 

There are ways to save when dining out. The easiest way to reduce your costs is to order water instead of a drink. According to moneydigest.com, the markup for a fountain drink at a restaurant ranges between 650% to 1,100%! Consider sharing a meal with your spouse, date, or friend. By sharing your meal, you’ll not only leave your wallet a little fatter, you’ll keep from growing your girth. You can also save on your meals by using coupons or discounts that may be available through your credit card or bank card. You may also find discounted gift cards at your local membership club or through gift card exchange websites. You can explore recommendations for gift card exchange websites at pcmag.com, which suggests you read a website’s FAQ section to determine if they offer a money-back guarantee before making any purchase.

Got a question about work, money, family—or just figuring life out? Ask Ida is where real people get real answers, served with humor and plain talk. Send in your question, and let’s make sense of life’s bumps together. ASK IDA


Funeral Tuesday in Leesville for LSHOF member, legendary rodeo figure T. Berry Porter

(Artwork by CHRIS BROWN, courtesy Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame)

Funeral Tuesday in Leesville for LSHOF member, legendary rodeo figure T. Berry Porter

Visitation is this evening and a Tuesday morning funeral is set in his hometown of Leesville for Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame member T. Barrett “T. Berry” Porter, Louisiana’s first professional rodeo cowboy.

Porter, 99, passed away Saturday morning. He was the first rodeo figure to enter the state sports hall, joining Peyton Manning, Les Miles, five-time Olympic volleyball star Danielle Scott and Peabody High School basketball coach Charles Smith, among others, in the LSHOF’s Class of 2019. At the time of his induction, he was the oldest person ever enshrined, and he was the oldest surviving Hall of Famer when he died. He attended most Hall of Fame induction ceremonies since he was honored.

He was inducted into the Rodeo Hall of Fame at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City in 2015.

The funeral will be Tuesday at 11 in the East Leesville Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery on Porter Road under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Visitation will be held this evening from 5-9 at East Leesville Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family said donations may be made to the Louisiana Lions Camp, 292 L Beauford Drive, Anacoco LA 71403.

At the age of 16, Porter became a member of the first professional cowboy association in the country, the Cowboy Turtle Association, which developed into the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (he held PRCA membership card No. 325). His events were tie-down calf roping and steer wrestling.

At 22, Porter won a month-long competition at Madison Square Garden to become the 1949 World Champion Calf Roper title, presented his trophy saddle by “The Singing Cowboy” Gene Autry after becoming the first world championship “rookie” to win the title. He quickly added the calf roping title at the 1949 World Rodeo in Boston in front of 6,000.

He won numerous titles at major rodeos around North America, including the famed Cheyenne Frontier Days and the Calgary Stampede and in Fort Worth, Denver and Houston, along with Shreveport, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Fort Smith, Arkansas, and Salinas, California.

In 1959, Porter became the first Louisiana cowboy to participate in the inaugural National Finals Rodeo. He was a member of the Wrangler Rodeo Team in the early 1950s, and his silhouette was placed on the back pocket of every pair of Wrangler jeans put on sale for years.

His career earnings were over $100,000 in 22 years.

In a May 1, 1963 columnShreveport Journal sports editor Jimmy Bullock called him “the Pelican State’s Mr. Rodeo” and said he was “famed as one of the nation’s foremost calf ropers.” In 1978, the PRCA presented him with his gold membership card and a plaque in appreciation of his promotion of the sport of rodeo at the high school, collegiate and pro levels.

As an advocate for the Louisiana high school rodeo athletes, he lobbied for funding to help them compete at the national level. He worked as a volunteer timed-event barrier judge for every high school rodeo in Louisiana from the early 1960s until 1976. During this time, he also worked as a volunteer timed-event barrier for nine National High School Rodeos —1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975. His ranch provided teaching opportunities and even temporary lodging for cowboys of all ages for decades.

A Lions Club member for over 70 years, he served on many local and state project committees and held many offices. The Lions Camp for Handicapped Children was the most dear to him. As a cattleman, he served on many committees and offices on the local, state, and national Cattleman’s Association. He has been on many Farm Bureau local and state committees. As a cattleman, he operated a 250 head cow-calf operation. He was one of the working cowboys that loaded the last load of Gray Ranch steers to leave Louisiana on railcars.

Born in Pineville March 9, 1927, Porter landed in Leesville two years later when his parents moved the family so his father could work at a Texaco gas station.

They lived in the back of the filling station. On site was a small roping pen, and it was there that T. Berry Porter would perfect his skills that would one day lead him to become a world champion.

“I don’t remember when I started roping, I just always did it,” he said in a 2019 interview with the LSWA’s Raymond Partsch III, a former Alexandria Town Talk sportswriter and editor. “There are still folks at the Lion’s Club here that call me the ‘goat roper.’ ”

That’s because, at the age of three, he won the goat-roping competition at the Vernon Parish Fair —signaling the start of a career that he honed as a youngster and throughout high school.

Of his LSHOF induction as the first rodeo figure, Porter said; “It is a very humbling honor. … Not many people can be the very first anything nowadays. I always thought that somebody else was better than me or more deserving than me.”

In 1949, he claimed his sport’s highest honor: World Champion Calf Roper.

The 22-year-old rookie drove to New York City in his 1948 Pontiac, pulling his homemade horse trailer behind him for a competition that lasted nearly an entire month. Porter would take part in 42 performances in 28 days at Madison Square Garden.

“It took a lot longer in those days,” he said. “My horses stayed underneath the Garden itself and I stayed for the month at the old Capitol Hotel on Broadway across from the Garden.”

Despite getting his picture taken with a celebrity and riding his horse down Broadway to become a national figure in his sport, Porter never got away from Vernon Parish for long. In addition to working the circuit, Porter ran the family filling station, hauled garbage, drove a school bus for three decades, ran a sporting goods/western store, moved houses, and ran his own massive ranch.

Porter also made rodeo a family affair as all four of his children — daughters Judy, Cathy, Lindy, and son David — became high school and amateur rodeo champions. That was passed down to his grandchildren as well.

“I did the best I could,” Porter said. “I was just hoping that I could win. As a rodeo cowboy, you always got to feel like you are going to win.”


Hall of Fame’s Round Table Luncheon will provide up-close, memorable moments

LEGENDARY INSIGHT: Basketball Hall of Fame member Seimone Augustus (right) of LSU, WNBA and Olympic fame cracks up acclaimed sportswriter Ron Higgins (center) and Fox Sports’ Tim Brando during the 2024 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Round Table Luncheon.

Hall of Fame’s Round Table Luncheon will provide up-close, memorable moments

The “youngest” event during this month’s Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration is the most exclusive, yet casual, opportunity for the public to enjoy hearing from the Class of 2026 inductees.

It’s the Round Table Luncheon Saturday, June 27, at noon at Riverside Reserve, 104 Mill Street, in Natchitoches. There are still seats available for the eighth annual Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation.

Registration is available for the luncheon can be made by visiting LaSportsHall.com, or by calling 318-238-4255. It is a ticketed event.

Festivities begin Thursday evening, June 25 with the free of charge Welcome Reception from 5-7 open to all, no registration necessary, at the Hall of Fame museum facing the traffic circle at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches.

The BOM Celebrity Bowling Bash is at midday Friday, June 26 at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. Friday evening brings the free Rockin’ River Fest concert on Cane River Lake in downtown Natchitoches, from 6-10:30, with the Class of 2026 introduced at 9:15 right before a sports-themed fireworks show over the water.

Events Saturday, June 27 include the free Saints and Pelicans Junior Training Camp for kids, the Round Table Luncheon, and the Induction Reception and Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center.

The Round Table Luncheon starts with tremendous Louisiana cuisine and quickly kicks into gear with Fox Sports announcer (and 2020 LSHOF inductee) Tim Brando interviewing small groups of inductees on stage in a very informal and fast-moving setting.

A poignant scene at the 2019 luncheon unfolded before the program when Peyton Manning, being inducted later that day, stopped by to greet LSU legend Johnny Robinson, who was inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame two months later.

Scenes like that, up-close access and the fun-filled dialog between Brando and the 2026 inductees combine to provide a memorable 90 minutes.

The Class of ‘26 is headlined by a star-studded group:  Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2025 inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother.

Alexandria native and LSU baseball hero Warren Morris will receive the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, earning enshrinement into the LSHOF. His walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU and resulted in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

LSU graduate and New Orleans native Gil LeBreton and multi-faceted Shreveporter John James Marshall are going into the Hall as the 2026 winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. Former Tioga girls basketball coach and nationally-acclaimed high school sports administrator Kathy Holloway is being inducted as the recipient of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The Hall of Fame Round Table Luncheon shapes up as a highly entertaining opportunity for guests to have a up-close-and-personal experience and be entertained and well fed in a casual setting, with a touch of elegance at the Riverside Reserve on the banks of Cane River Lake just a mile from downtown Natchitoches.


Are you ready for the days of summer?

Cleco is launching its Watt Matters energy-saving campaign to help customers reduce their energy usage and lower their monthly bills during the hot summer months. 

“Each summer, Cleco shares programs, resources and practical tips to help customers reduce their energy usage,” said Tracy Daigrepont, director of customer experience at Cleco. “While customers can’t control the weather, they can control how they use energy, and during the summer months, every watt matters.”

The campaign focuses on three key areas. 

Manage It

Cleco’s Budget Billing program allows residential customers to pay approximately the same amount each month, making it easier to manage household budgets year-round.

Save It

Small changes, such as using a ceiling fan, turning off and unplugging unused appliances and switching to LED lights can help customers use energy more efficiently.

Know It

Cleco’s MyAccount platform and free mobile app allow customers to track current and projected energy use, helping them make informed decisions and manage usage. Customers can sign up for daily email and text alerts through their MyAccount profile. “Cleco also offers its Power Wise energy efficiency program,” said Daigrepont.

“The program provides energy-saving solutions to residential and business customers, including an on-site residential weatherization assessment at no out-of-pocket cost, appliance and device rebates, and an online store, Clecomarketplace.com, where residential customers receive instant rebates and manufacturer discounts on items like smart thermostats, advanced power strips, showerheads and more.” 

For more information on these programs, visit https://www.cleco.com/wattmatters


Joseph Bartz named new Vernon Parish Schools superintendent

The Vernon Parish School Board announced its selection on June 4 of Joseph Bartz as the next superintendent of Vernon Parish Schools.

After serving in the military, he worked as an educator before becoming principal of South Beauregard High School. He later served as principal of Rosepine High School.

He currently serves as the Director of Personnel for the Vernon Parish School Board and will succeed outgoing superintendent James Williams, who is set to retire on July 1.


Leesville Police Chief Amanda Westmoreland resigns

The City of Leesville is notifying the public of the resignation of Police Chief Amanda Westmoreland.

In a statement from the mayor’s office, officials reflected on her time in the role and the impact she made during her tenure. The mayor praised Westmoreland’s compassion and dedication to the community, describing her as someone whose commitment to serving others stood out throughout her time as chief.

Officials also noted that while her time in the position was brief, they believe her leadership and the relationships she built will have a lasting impact on the department and the city.

The city did not immediately announce a timeline for selecting a replacement.


Louisiana Legislature Ends 2026 Session, Approves $47 Billion Budget

By Richard Searles

Education, infrastructure and economic development among top priorities

BATON ROUGE, La. — The Louisiana Legislature adjourned its 2026 Regular Session after approving a balanced $47 billion state budget focused on education, economic development, infrastructure improvements and debt reduction.

The budget includes approximately $4 billion in State General Fund support for K-12 education and $1.3 billion for higher education. Funding also includes $420 million for early childhood education and $30 million for tutoring programs.

Lawmakers approved more than $360 million in economic development initiatives, including incentives for higher-paying jobs, business site development and workforce recruitment efforts.

The Legislature also allocated more than $500 million for additional road and infrastructure projects, $33 million for Medicaid home and community-based services and $144 million to reduce state retirement debt.

Before adjourning, lawmakers approved a new congressional district map, eliminated vehicle inspection sticker requirements in most parishes, added $50 million to the fortified roof grant program and approved additional protections for minors online.

During the session, legislators considered more than 2,500 measures and sent more than 900 bills to Gov. Jeff Landry for consideration.

The 2026 Regular Session concluded with lawmakers approving major investments in education, infrastructure and economic development while advancing a wide range of policy measures affecting Louisiana residents.


Kids get coached by the stars at LSHOF’s free Saints & Pelicans’ Junior Training Camp

Louisiana Tech All-American and WNBA All-Star Vickie Johnson, a Coushatta native, talks with kids during the 2025 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame free clinic for kids.

Hundreds of kids who dream of playing in the pros – or, kids who just love to play – can get signed up for the free New Orleans Saints & Pelicans/Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Junior Training Camp on Saturday morning, June 27 on the Northwestern State campus in Natchitoches.

The JTC annually provides two hours of full throttle fun alongside Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame members and NSU coaches, and staff from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans community relations department.

The clinic registration can be done quickly on the LaSportsHall.com website under the “events’ button. Or parents can call the LSHOF Foundation office at 318-238-4255 for registration help. The camp fills to its 300-kid capacity almost every summer.

The LaSportsHall.com website has the full schedule for the Induction Celebration June 25-27. The JTC is one of three free events, beginning with the Thursday evening Welcome Reception from 5-7 at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches. The biggest free ticket is Friday night, June 26 Rockin’ Riverfest concert from 6-10:30 on the downtown riverbank, featuring a fireworks show after the Class of 2026 is introduced at 9:15.

The Junior Training Camp runs from 9-11 a.m., starting with registration between 8-9 a.m. at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center (WRAC) gymnasium on the NSU campus. It’s important for parents to get their campers checked in well before the fun starts at 9 a.m. Then, campers get introduced to the sports stars who will be coaching them for the next two hours, inside focusing on basketball skills, and outside at Turpin Stadium, with football and general sports skills instruction.

Every camper will bring home two free T-shirts, other items, and a coupon for a meal at Raisin’ Canes. Photos from the camp will be posted on the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Facebook page, and so will a highlight video.

The goals of the JTC are simple – a fun, and thrilling, experience for the kids, free of charge; skills instruction from some of the best to ever play, or coach, the games; and promotion of health lifestyles and positive life choices.

The campers are separated into two groups. One stays inside for the first hour for basketball instruction, while the other is next door at Turpin Stadium, having football fun. The groups switch locations in the second half of the camp.

Parents can follow their favorite campers and watch all the fun from the stands in the gym and on the east side of Turpin Stadium – where it will be sunny, and hot, watching some really cool memories being made.


Don’t worry about college sports, here’s Congress to the rescue

What a relief. There’s a big Congressional hearing Wednesday on the “Protect College Sports Act of 2026.”

“Supporting Student-Athletes, Restoring Fair Competition and Saving the Games Fans Love” is the stated mission of Senator Ted Cruz and colleagues.

“We cannot allow college athletics to morph int o a mini-NFL or NBA,” said Cruz in an official statement announcing the hearing.

Senator, you’re late. By decades.

Some of it is fine by me. Absolutely if coaches are raking in mega-million dollar salaries, as they have been on the top shelf of the NCAA for this century, then the players ought to be cut in on the pie.

These seven-figure NIL deals we hear recruits and transfers are getting are no more excessive than the eight-figure contracts that are going to head coaches. Neither should exist, but …

We’re never going back to college sports as we thought they were. That will happen right alongside peace in the Middle East and admitting a messy CIA-Mafia conspiracy took out JFK.

You’ll get a lot more clarity June 12 when Steven Spielberg’s “Disclosure Day” hits movie screens and we find out Bigfoot uses UFOs to get away from prying eyes.

Ridiculous? So is the idea that Congress can solve this mess. We know the high level university presidents and conference commissioners can’t. Their first priorities are their own bottom lines. And it’s their second and third priorities, too.

The presidents punted on this long ago. It’s great that the former Ohio State president testifying Wednesday, Gordon Gee, is the same bold leader who offered these gems discussing an NCAA scandal staining the Buckeyes’ football program:

  • “Let me just be very clear: I just hope the coach doesn’t fire me.”
  • “They run the athletic department and I run the university., and I should have stayed out of there.”

He will no doubt show up at the hearing in his trademark bow tie. Looks academic. Here’s the clown Congress will hear from Wednesday: he ran up thousand-dollar luxury hotel bills on university expense accounts, got Ohio State to pay for $500 shower curtains for his university-provided house, and his marketing aces spent over $64,000 on bow ties, bow tie cookies and bow tie lapel pins for Gee and others to distribute over four years, according to reporting by the Dayton Daily News.

Surely he knows what’s good for the future of college sports.

Nick Saban will testify. He DOES know what’s good for the future of college sports.

He’s been telling anybody who will listen since the day he called it a coaching career, in part because their NIL package was the first and primary topic raised by practically every one of the first 20 or so players who he met with to discuss their futures with the following season’s Crimson Tide.

Listening to sages like Saban, and doing something about what you’ve heard, is where the disconnect exists with the presidents who make up the NCAA hierarchy and lead the Power 4 conference schools.

They are hoping Congress will impose its will where they would not. The Hatfields and McCoys have been sniping at each other across conference lines for decades instead of collaborating for the common good.

Now a group of presidents, board members and donors calling itself “Saving College Sports” – there’s even a snazzy letterhead – has presented Cruz and pals with a letter of support signed by dozens. New LSU president Wade Rousse’s name is on the letter. He told Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports he didn’t authorize his name to be included. Now that’s a reform-minded group, randomly claiming converts to its cause.

Know what’s missing from Wednesday’s festivities? Anyone not at the top tier. There are more than 360 NCAA Division I athletic programs. The issues discussed under the Capitol Dome tomorrow are so far out of scale for almost 300 of them that the eventual outcome for the non-Gucci schools is painfully predictable.

We saw it last month when the NCAA basketball postseasons, men and women, were padded to 76 teams – strictly a money grab for the biggies to get more teams in March Madness.

It doesn’t matter what’s good for the masses. It just comes down to what’s best for the masters of the college sports universe.

And they’re counting on a blow-hard heavy Congress, dripping in money from PACs and lobbyists that dwarf their actual salaries, to make it better?

Odds on that rank right up there with Jimmy Kimmel playing a round of golf with President Trump.

The ultimate solution to this mess will be when it crashes, drained of cash from disillusioned donors. Then we can hope that with nearly divine intervention, or desperation,  university leadership from across the far-reaching landscape gets real and sorts it out into authentic tiers of economically-sound competition with real oversight and rules that get enforced.

As likely as Fox News and CNN merging.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com


Guide to the 76th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival

Celebrate the Louisiana Peach Festival’s 76th year with free admission, a wide range of entertainment and activities, and plenty of peachy events to enjoy leading up to the festival. Browse our guide below and start planning your trip to Downtown Ruston for the weekend of Saturday, June 6.

EAT:
From June 1-6, enjoy Peach Culinary Crawl, a weeklong tasting tour featuring over 20 local restaurants. Each participating location will offer special peach-inspired items. From peach BBQ and burgers to peach cocktails and desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The full Culinary Crawl menu is available on the Peach Fest website.

SEE:
Get a preview of all the arts of the festival with the 39th Annual NCLAC Peach Art Exhibit. Check out the display of local artist of all ages in the Lincoln Parish Library Events Center happening all through July.

– Peach fest hack: After visiting the exhibit, take the quick drive to explore downtown Ruston, scope out the festival grounds, and snap a picture at one of the colorful murals!

EXPERIENCE: There’s plenty to enjoy Friday before the festival:

  • Take a stroll through Downtown Ruston and browse the Peach Sidewalk Sale. Participating downtown shops will be offering peachy deals and special promotions from June 3-6.
    – Peach Fest Hack: Find your perfect festival outfit during the sidewalk sale!
  • The Peach Parade is a long loved and cherished tradition by festival attendees. The parade will roll down W. Alabama Ave. and N. Monroe St. on Friday, June 5 at 6:00 PM.
  • After the parade, you can head over to the North Louisiana Expo Center for the 37th Annual Peach Festival Rodeo for family fun entertainment, trick riders, and more.

Saturday June 6: Festival Day!

Festival activities start at 9:00 AM and there’s plenty to eat, see, and experience—all located on the festival grounds.

EAT:

Festival Eats

  • This year, enjoy bites from 15 food vendors, offering everything from burgers, sandwiches, and pizza, to classic festival treats, refreshing drinks, and tasty snacks.
  • You’ll also want to pay a visit to the Historic Fire Station for a scoop of frosty peach ice cream from the ladies of Beta Sigma Phi
    – Peach Fest Hack: Ask vendors what their special peach item is! All food vendors create and offer a peachy item just for the Peach Festival

Local Eats
Feeling like a sit-down meal? Check out these local restaurants that are walkable from the festival:

  • The Local: morning pick-me-up coffee, pastries, and breakfast bites.
  • Uptown Downtown or Heard Freighthouse Food Park: perfect for lunch and plenty of options! For sandwiches, wraps, and a sweet treat, go to Uptown Downtown. For BBQ, Burgers, Chinese, or Mexican cuisine, head over to the Food Park.
  • Sundown Tavern or Ponchatoulas: both are beloved Ruston staples with that classic dive bar charm. Be sure to try the fried green beans at Sundown or the stuffed catfish at Ponchatoulas.
  • Roma or Utility Brewing: For classic Italian-style pizza, pasta, and fresh salads, take a stroll to Roma’s Italian Bistro. Want to try something different? Utility Brewing serves up creative wood fire-baked pizzas paired with craft beer in a cozy setting.

SEE:

  • Festival Art Displays: Discover Plein Air artists painting the scenes and capturing the action of the festival in real time. At Kids Alley, there will be interactive displays and activities for the kiddos to participate in the arts themselves!
  • Ruston Antique Classic Car Show: Head over to Cadence Bank from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM for the Car Show. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just love vintage charm, this show is sure to impress with its lineup of beautifully restored classic vehicles.
  • Fireworks Show: Stick around till the headliner performance for the Peach Festival’s Firework show at 8:45 PM! This dazzling sky display will take place before the headlining act to kick off the grand finale to the festival.
  • Go to www.lapeachfest.com/schedule to see all festival events!

EXPERIENCE:

  • Live Music: Enjoy more than 12 consecutive hours of live performances at the Railroad Park stage. With an exciting lineup of artists, the festival’s musical energy will keep you dancing all day long. Don’t miss the headliner, The Chee-Weez, taking the stage at 9:00 PM.
    – Peach Fest Hack: Bring a lawn chair or blanket in case seating runs out!
  • Kids Alley: Make fun memories in this family-friendly zone packed with interactive activities and entertainment to keep the little ones smiling.
  • Curated Market: Browse the booths of more than 90 vendors, all selling their handmade arts, jewelry, clothing, mugs, decorations, candles, and lots more. Additionally, you can stop by the Peach Fest Sticker Wall in the market—perfect for a fun and unique photo op.
    – Peach Fest Hack: arrive early to the Curated Market before your favorite vendor sells out. Visit www.lapeachfest.com/vendors to get a sneak peek at what vendors are offering.

SUNDAY:

After a busy Saturday, sleep in, take Sunday slow and enjoy Ruston’s cozy charm:

EAT:

  • Trios: Enjoy their signature brunch menu in a trendy atmosphere.
  • The Local: Order specialty brunch cocktails and bites in the heart of Downtown.
  • Beau Vines Steakhouse: Not a brunch fan? Dive into a hearty lunch and bottomless mimosas.

SEE:
While you’re at the festival Saturday, you will likely spot a few of Ruston’s unique bulldog statues scattered throughout downtown. In total, there are 22 bulldogs placed around the city—each with its own charm. Stretch your visit a little longer and turn your Sunday into a scavenger hunt to track down the ones you missed.

EXPERIENCE:
Wind down with a peaceful visit to Lincoln Parish Park. This park offers mountain biking and walking trails, kayaking, fishing, and a playground for the kids. It’s the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of Ruston and cap off your Peach Festival weekend.

From peachy treats and live music to charming shops and peaceful parks, the 76th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival is the perfect way to kick off your summer. Soak up the fun, explore Ruston, and celebrate 76 years of sweet traditions and unforgettable memories!

To learn the insider tips and tricks all seasoned festival goers know, read up on our How to Peach Fest blog.


Louisiana Legislature Passes New Congressional Map

The Louisiana Legislature passed SB 121 Thursday, sending a new congressional map to Governor Jeff Landry for his signature following months of debate prompted by a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down the state’s previous district lines.

The Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais found that the previous map unconstitutionally prioritized race over traditional redistricting principles such as compactness and communities of interest. The new map was drawn without race as the predominant factor in determining district boundaries.

The legislation creates five Republican-leaning congressional districts statewide. A review of the enacted map shows that some parishes are split between congressional districts. 

For Caddo and Bossier parishes, both remain unified within the Fourth Congressional District alongside De Soto, Red River, Natchitoches, Sabine, Webster, Claiborne, and Bienville parishes. Central Louisiana, including Rapides Parish, is kept whole within the Fifth Congressional District.

The map now heads to the Governor for signature. If signed, it will govern Louisiana’s congressional representation through the remainder of the decade.

The Shreveport-Bossier Journal will continue to monitor developments.

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Parish Journals of Louisiana
Louisiana Congressional Districts
As established under SB 121 — HFA SB121-5695 (Beaullieu)
District Parishes
1 Assumption, Jefferson, Lafourche, Plaquemines, St. Charles, St. James, St. John, St. Mary, Terrebonne
2 Orleans, St. Bernard
3 Acadia, Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Iberia, Jeff Davis, Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin, Vermilion, Vernon
4 Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Claiborne, De Soto, Natchitoches, Red River, Sabine, Webster
5 Avoyelles, Caldwell, Carroll (East), Carroll (West), Catahoula, Concordia, Franklin, Grant, Jackson, La Salle, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Ouachita, Rapides, Richland, Tensas, Union, Winn
6 Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Washington, West Baton Rouge, West Feliciana
Source: HFA SB121-5695 Congressional Map — Louisiana Legislature, May 28, 2026

Congressional map passes Louisiana House, advances to Senate for concurrence

A new congressional map passed overwhelmingly in the Louisiana House on May 28 and now moves to the Senate for concurrence.

State Representative Mike Johnson said the map complies with legal requirements following rulings from the United States Supreme Court. He noted that the revised plan keeps Rapides Parish whole and places it back within the Fifth Congressional District alongside much of Central Louisiana.

Supporters of the map say it is intended to keep communities of interest together, pointing to shared economic, educational, transportation, agricultural and cultural ties across Central Louisiana. They also say the changes better reflect long-standing regional connections while maintaining representation in Congress.

The proposal now heads to the state Senate for consideration.


Cannon exhibit at LSHOF enthralls guests at opening reception

FAMILY AFFAIR: Gathering around Billy Cannon’s 1959 Heisman Trophy at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Thursday night were his wife, Dot, (left to right, standing) daughter Gina McWilliams and her husband Jay, and daughters Bunnie Cannon and Dara Kelsoe. (Journal photo by KEVIN SHANNAHAN)

By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

NATCHITOCHES – The Billy Cannon exhibit that opened a year-long stay Thursday night at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the glory days of LSU’s 1959 Heisman Trophy winning running back.

But that’s just one aspect of a comprehensive collection of items from the Cannon Family Trust tracking his 80 years, ending when he died in his sleep in 2018.  “Billy Cannon: They Called Him Legend” showcases his sports highlights and also shares his fall from glory that landed him in prison. He gradually weathered the aftermath and ultimately regained his status as a sports icon while he became a profoundly positive influence, widely admired in his later years.

It was hard to tell who was more delighted among the museum visitors Thursday evening, but it would be tough to top the smiles from his widow, Dot (who turns 88 next week), his three daughters (Gina McWilliams, Dara Kelsoe, and Bunnie Cannon) and Jay McWilliams, a son-in-law.

“He would be very thrilled that y’all are able to see this and learn from his story,” his youngest daughter, Bunnie, told those who got the first look at the exhibit that will remain in the Natchitoches museum for nearly a year. “It’s important that it stays up here for a while and people can see and know who he truly was.

“He loved the people here. Whenever he would come here, he would always stay for several hours and sign autographs and talk with people. He had a great respect for everybody here and was so proud to be in the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame,” she said.

Thursday’s audience included retired Natchitoches dentist Dr. Jerry Ferguson, who was in dental school with Cannon (while he played pro football) at the University of Tennessee. Also among those attending: impending 2026 LSHOF inductee Mike McConathy, former state Sen. Louis Bernard, Northwestern State football coach Blaine McCorkle, an LSU center in the late 1990s, and former Demons coach Jay Thomas, who grew up in Baton Rouge.

It’s a memorabilia-packed extension of an even larger exhibit showcased for the past 14 months at the Capitol Park Museum in Baton Rouge, part of the Louisiana State Museum system. It provides a visual and auditory review of Cannon’s life with items from his days at Istrouma High School in Baton Rouge to his college and pro stardom – and of course, it includes a replay of his classic Halloween Night Run, a weaving fourth-quarter 89-yard punt return as he dodged seven defenders for the only touchdown in an Oct. 31, 1959 7-3 victory over No. 3-ranked Ole Miss in Tiger Stadium.

It also covers his impact during many years of service as the director of dentistry at Angola State Prison, beginning several years after he finished 30 months in a federal minimum security facility in Texarkana after pleading guilty to counterfeiting charges in 1983.

Shreveporter Teddy Allen, who is in the LSHOF as a sports journalist, became close to Dr. Cannon in Baton Rouge following that prison sentence, when Allen covered LSU for the New Orleans Times-Picayune. Cannon, said his daughter, “loved Teddy Allen.”

“Dr. Cannon was good at everything,” said Allen. “He went to dental school, for some time had a thriving practice. Obviously he won the Heisman. Got married to his high school sweetheart, was a wonderful husband for 62 years, had all these children (five) and grandkids.

“The only thing he wasn’t good at was counterfeiting. That was it, the only thing he didn’t master, and it’s good for us that he didn’t, that all of that worked out like it was supposed to.

“The Halloween run story is fascinating. He had a fabled life. But his best run was those last two decades of his life when he turned it around, accepted the love that people wanted to show him. He made them feel valued, and they made him feel back on top of the world.”

As Cannon restored his reputation, and joined LSU teammates for anniversary celebrations of the Tigers’ 1958 national championship, the mutual admiration blossomed.

At LSU’s 2003 homecoming game, he was recognized in an on-field ceremony between the first and second quarters. The crowd gave him an extended standing ovation and LSU players raised their helmets in salute, with LSU athletic director Skip Bertman remarking to a friend, “He’s still the icon, isn’t he?”

Cannon was forthright in his 2016 autobiography, “Billy Cannon, a Long, Long Run,” and people appreciated his frankness. In a book signing at the Hall of Fame museum, hundreds stood for hours in a line winding through the two-story building, out the front door and around the corner. It took so long because Cannon inscribed personal messages on each copy, engaged every fan in conversation and posed for photos during an eight-hour span.

“It didn’t matter where we were,” said Jay McWilliams, “somebody would recognize him, come over and shake his hand. Didn’t matter who it was, he would always take time to shake hands and visit. He appreciated people, had a heart of gold.”

Along with the exhibit, an upcoming Louisiana Public Broadcasting documentary spearheaded by former Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne will debut the week before LSU hosts Ole Miss (Sept. 24) this fall, with hopes that it will be picked up by Netflix.

“He would absolutely love this,” said Bunnie Cannon. “He would want LPB to profit, because the support for public broadcasting is not what it used to be, and he was so Louisiana proud.”

“He was just a sweet, sweet man, as sweet a man as he was a ballplayer,” said Allen. “As a ballplayer, he was Herschel Walker 30 years before Herschel hit the field.

“This state was so blessed to have him, and his whole story. Somehow it was supposed to work out like it did,” said Allen. “He was as sorry as he could be for all that (trouble). It was incredible how he made amends for it.”

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com


Cleco to power planned data center

Cleco will provide power to a new data center being developed by Applied Digital in Rapides Parish, the company confirmed Wednesday.

Gov. Jeff Landry officially announced the project Tuesday during an Alexandria press conference held in partnership with Louisiana Economic Development and Louisiana Central.

“The data center project will be transformative for Rapides Parish and our customers,” said Bill Fontenot, president and CEO of Cleco. “As a company, we welcome Applied Digital and look forward to meeting their needs for safe and reliable energy for years to come.”

According to Applied Digital and economic development experts, the project is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs during construction and another 200 long-term positions, while stimulating additional opportunities for existing local businesses.

“The number of jobs generated by this project is significant for central Louisiana, and it aligns with our priorities to foster business growth locally and throughout the state,” Fontenot said. “A project of this size will have positive generational impacts on the region.”

Company officials stated that large-load customers like data centers can help lower costs for existing customers by spreading system expenses across a broader base. The project is also expected to bring upgrades to power lines, substations and equipment to strengthen the regional power grid.

Fontenot emphasized that infrastructure costs will not fall on current residents.

“Costs for infrastructure investments and power generation will be reimbursed by the data center with assurances made that prevent the shifting of costs onto other customers,” Fontenot said. “Improving infrastructure will lead to stronger resiliency and reliability for all customers.”

The project remains subject to oversight by the Louisiana Public Service Commission.

Cleco representatives noted the utility has met Louisiana’s reliability standards for the past 27 years, maintaining power delivery more than 99.99% of the time.


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Louisiana limits SNAP EBT purchases to state, border areas to combat fraud

The Louisiana Department of Health announced Friday that beginning May 26, state SNAP recipients will only be able to use their Electronic Benefit Transfer cards for purchases made within Louisiana and in ZIP codes adjacent to the state’s border.

Department officials said the policy change aims to protect benefits from fraud and out-of-state use while ensuring Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program dollars support Louisiana grocers, farmers, businesses and local communities.

EBT cardholders who shop at Louisiana stores and through approved online retailers will not be affected. Residents who regularly shop just across the state line in Texas, Mississippi and Arkansas will experience little to no disruption, as many of those border ZIP codes are included under the policy’s approved designation. Out-of-state purchases attempted outside of the approved areas will be blocked.

SNAP recipients who are traveling and need temporary access to make purchases outside of Louisiana can request a short-term exemption online at lifeincheckebt.com, by calling 888-524-3578, or by visiting a local department SNAP office.

Any temporary out-of-state access will automatically expire at the beginning of the following month, returning the card to the default setting.

For more information and a full list of approved border-area ZIP codes, residents can visit ldh.la.gov/page/electronic-benefits-transfer-ebt.