The Real News Louisiana

08/22/2025

For the past eight years, the Ben D. Johnson Educational Center has been a place where our community could grow, learn, and connect. Due to changes in state funding, the center will close on September 30, 2025.

They share heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported their mission and helped shape the lives of so many in Natchitoches. While the doors may close, the seeds they’ve planted will continue to grow.

We invite you to share your memories, photos, and messages of appreciation so we can honor their lasting impact together.

08/20/2025

Did you catch these stories from the August 8th publication?

Here’s a look at some stories and happenings featured in our latest issue. Swipe through for highlights, then check out the full August 8th publication for more stories, photos, and events happening in and around our community.

Keep your friends and neighbors in the loop with these updates. You can also check out the August 8th Publication at therealnewslouisiana.com.

08/18/2025

The Ben Johnson Educational Center invites you to their 4th Annual “I Tried” Awards Fundraiser on August 26 at Riverside Reserve. For just $50, enjoy a night of inspiration, community, and celebration. Tickets are live now at www.bdjcenter.org/i-tried.

The I Tried event is inspired by the belief that effort matters, perseverance matters, and every step forward is worth celebrating. These are the values Ben D. Johnson lived by — values that continue to shape our community today.

Each year, I Tried recognizes individuals who embody this spirit, reminding us that determination is the heart of progress. Join us as we honor their stories and celebrate Mr. Johnson's birthday. bit.ly/itried2025

08/18/2025

Check out The Breadhouse's weekly menu! From Hamburger Steak to Banana Pudding, they've got all the comfort foods you need. Don't miss out on the daily special with a Meatpie Plate with Red Beans and Rice for $9 and Pinto Beans with Extra Sausage for $9. Be sure to go check them out!

08/17/2025

Sweetie's 50 Year Birthday Celebration
Daryl Walker

Photographer: Erick Wilson RTSS Photography

08/17/2025

Local Pastors in Natchitoches donate to Natchitoches Jr. High School football program

From left to right: Pastor Dwayne Dupree, Pastor Steven Harris, Pastor Altorio Holden, Minister Ethel Felder, Head Coach Brian Young Sr., Principal Bobby Benjamin, Pastor J’Rel West, and Pastor John Williams.

Not pictured:

Dr. Elbert R. Demery, Jr.
Dr. Aill R. Harris, Jr.
Pastor Carlos Donaway
Pastor Thomas Carter
Pastor Brian Small
Minister Kenneth Banks
Minister Caroline Dixon

Photographer: Erick Wilson RTSS Photography

08/15/2025

Promote your business with The Real News Louisiana. Reach a local audience that values community connection and trusted stories. Call 318-354-7721 or email [email protected] to get started.

08/15/2025

James “Big Brown” Joseph, a former Harlem Globetrotter, made a big impact in Grambling by donating and installing air conditioners for the elderly through his nonprofit, the Big Brown Foundation. With help from Mayor Alvin Bradley and Councilwoman Delores Wilkerson-Smith, this effort showed what real community care looks like.

Looking for more stories like this? Download our publication today at therealnewslouisiana.com

08/15/2025

Fall Semester Enrollment

United Baptist Theological Seminary

Monday August 25th 6-8pm

08/14/2025

Natchitoches — In a victory for Black voters and democracy in Louisiana, the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals today affirmed in full the district court’s ruling that the state’s legislative maps violate Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The court agreed that the maps dilute the voting power of Black Louisianians by unfairly dividing communities into state districts with the goal of reducing a group’s voting power, otherwise known as packing and cracking, denying them an equal opportunity to elect candidates of their choice....

Natchitoches — In a victory for Black voters and democracy in Louisiana, the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals today affirmed in full the district court’s ruling that the stat…

08/14/2025

NEW ORLEANS — In a victory for Black voters and democracy in Louisiana, the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals today affirmed in full the district court’s ruling that the state’s legislative maps violate Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The court agreed that the maps dilute the voting power of Black Louisianians by unfairly dividing communities into state districts with the goal of reducing a group’s voting power, otherwise known as packing and cracking, denying them an equal opportunity to elect candidates of their choice....

NEW ORLEANS — In a victory for Black voters and democracy in Louisiana, the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals today affirmed in full the district court’s ruling that the state…