Update explains major changes for Louisiana Drivers that affect DUI, cell phones, new drivers

Louisiana is entering 2026 with three major legal changes affecting drivers, covering distracted driving fines, mandatory DUI jail time and a significant shift in how fault is determined in road accident claims.

JUST TALKIN’

Hope you have all your tax documents in order because next Wednesday is IRS payday.If you overpaid your taxes during the year…according to IRS charts…you could be due a refund. Otherwise, just grin and bear it as they say and send in your check.

Meeting of Natchitoches Citizen Improvement Foundation open to public April 14 at Center

The Natchitoches Citizens Improvement Foundation quarterly meeting will be Tuesday, April 14 at 6 p.m. in the Ben Johnson Shopping Center at 400 MLK Drive. The public can attend.

Stay aware!

The best way to protect yourself from becoming a victim of a scam is to understand your rights as a consumer. The La. Attorney General’s consumer education program distributes information through consumer alerts, publications and presentations on the latest scams.

Service League of Natchitoches will host Capes and Crowns

Calling all Princesses and SuperHeroes! The Service League of Natchitoches is hosting a fun-filled “Capes and Crown” tea party Saturday, April 11, at the Prud’homme-Rouquier House located at 446 Jefferson St.There will be two sessions: 10-11:30 a.m. and 1:30 – 3 p.m. Costumes are encouraged.

Turkey shoot is Saturday in Gorum

A Turkey shoot to raise funds for the Gorum Cemetery is taking place Saturday, April, 11, from 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. at 9634 Hwy 119, .7 miles east of Gorum Post Office.Cost is $5 per round with a winner each round; 12, 20 and 410 gauges. Shells provided.Prizes include shotguns, Ruger .

Parish President lifts burn ban

Natchitoches Parish President John Salter, in coordination with Natchitoches Parish Fire Districts has rescinded the parish-wide burn ban that was effective April 6.

Natchitoches Lions Club Scholarship applications available by request

The application packet for the Natchitoches Lions Club Scholarship for the 2026-2027 academic year is now available. This $1,000 scholarship ($500 per semester) is available for two students who are graduating from a Natchitoches Parish public school, private school, or homeschool in Spring 2026.

High winds ripped this large tree

Gift to Tri Sigma