Pointe Coupee Banner

10/11/2025

👻 Don’t ghost your business this Halloween — get your ad in The Pointe Coupee Banner’s spooky edition! 📰🎃

It’s the perfect way to scare up some new customers before the holiday season hits!

Email [email protected] for pricing and placement today! 🕸️🕷️

10/09/2025

🚓💙 The Pointe Coupee community came together last night at False River Park for National Night Out Against Crime, a yearly event celebrating the partnership between first responders and the neighbors they serve. Hosted by the first responders of Pointe Coupee Parish, the evening was filled with fun, laughter, and a powerful message — that when a community stands united, it can truly kick crime out for good.

Families filled the park to enjoy food, vendor booths, games, and plenty of interactive displays that gave residents a closer look at the people and agencies who keep them safe. Kids enjoyed the fun jumps and hands-on activities while parents connected with local businesses and organizations working hard to make Pointe Coupee a safer, stronger place to live.

A special thank-you goes out to Sheriff Renee Thibodeaux and the entire team of first responders — deputies, firefighters, EMTs, and volunteers — who make events like this possible and who dedicate their time and energy to protecting our parish every day.

It was a night full of smiles, sirens, and community spirit — the kind of night that reminds us how essential our first responders are to the heart of Pointe Coupee. 💛👮‍♀️🚒

10/09/2025

🎬 What a night at the Season 3 premiere of Ziggy’s Arts Adventure on PBS! Every seat was filled, and you could just feel the excitement from all the kids, parents, and teachers ready to dive into the arts. The first episode was all about mood — how music and art can shift the way we feel or help us manage emotions. It touched on everything from rock and roll to soul and blues, showing how creativity connects to what’s going on inside us.

After the episode, two live performances brought that idea to life. Syreeta Neal and Kenny Neal took the stage with an uplifting song called Let Life Flow, and their energy lit up the room. Then Aaliyah Bergeron performed Rise Up by Andra Day, barefoot and fearless after breaking her sandals right before she went on — and she absolutely stole the show. There wasn’t a dry eye in the crowd.

The second episode focused on dynamics in music, starting with Cajun tunes and how things changed once the accordion joined the mix, transforming simple fiddle music into full-blown zydeco. It even touched on “stimming,” which Ziggy demonstrated by tapping his foot to the beat — showing how rhythm can help with focus, nerves, and emotions. It was incredible seeing our South Louisiana culture represented so proudly on a national show.

After that, the audience got a real treat with a little live zydeco from Ben Deshotels and Kevin Landry. Then, Nellie LaCombe — a young performer from the New Roads Center for the Arts — performed You Are My Sunshine on guitar, which was so special since that song was written by a Louisiana native. She said she was inspired to play because her great-grandfather played the accordion, and that connection to family and music was just beautiful.

Creative Director Clay Achee, known as the “Baton Rouge Puppet Guy,” shared a bit about how Ziggy came to be — from building puppets to bringing them to life on screen. Art Director Lauren Cabrera talked about designing the sets and even playing the recurring character “Thimble.” The Arts Director for the New Roads Center for the Arts, Courtney Maciasz, also helped make the whole event possible.

It was a full house, full of laughter, music, and inspiration. Seeing Louisiana culture, creativity, and heart represented in such a meaningful way reminded everyone why Ziggy matters. You can catch all three seasons of Ziggy’s Arts Adventure on LPB or YouTube — and trust me, it’s worth a watch.

-Elizabeth Baudoin

10/08/2025

🌟 In Case You Missed It: Pointe Coupee Parish Community Resource Expo! 🌟

Today, the Scott Civic Center in New Roads was buzzing with energy, connection, and community spirit as local families, businesses, and organizations came together for the Pointe Coupee Parish Community Resource Expo— a free event offering health, financial, and social-service information for residents of all ages. 💛

Hosted through a partnership between 18th JDC Families in Need of Services and the Pointe Coupee Chamber of Commerce, this expo highlighted the many incredible agencies and programs working every day to support our parish. More than 30 local organizations set up booths to share valuable resources — everything from healthcare and early childhood programs to job placement, counseling, education, and family services. 🙌

Visitors had the chance to meet representatives from groups like:
💉 LA Office of Public Health – Tuberculosis Program
🏥 Southeast Community Health Systems & Arbor Family Health
👶 Pointe Coupee Early Childhood & Human Services Center
⚖️ CASA of the 18 JDC & Capital Area Human Services
❤️ Louisiana Dermatology, Humana, and Pennington Biomedical Research Center
📚 Pointe Coupee Parish Library & Youth Challenge Program
🚑 Acadian Ambulance, Geaux Jobs, and Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge
💵 Local banks and businesses including Guaranty Bank, Synergy Bank, and the City of New Roads

Guests were treated to a free lunch 🍽️, enjoyed plenty of conversation, and even had the chance to win door prizes 🎁. The event was a wonderful opportunity for residents to learn more about available programs, meet the people behind them, and discover just how many helping hands are right here at home in Pointe Coupee.

A huge thank-you goes out to the City of New Roads, Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff's Office Posse, Synergy Bank, Pointe Coupee Parish Government , Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, and all of the sponsors who made this possible — as well as every organization that took the time to share their services and connect with families in need. 💛

As someone who attended on behalf of The Pointe Coupee Banner, I loved meeting so many passionate people dedicated to keeping our community informed, supported, and strong. Events like this remind us that when we work together, we make Pointe Coupee a better place for everyone. 💫

10/07/2025

🗞️ Throwback from the archives!

Big thanks to our friends at the Pointe Coupee Parish Library II for sharing this gem — a Banner advertisement dated December 7, 1889, featuring Raymond Pepitone’s Oyster Saloon in New Roads. 🍰🦪

To put that in perspective — back in 1889, Louisiana Governor Francis T. Nicholls was serving his second term, the Eiffel Tower had just opened to the public in Paris, and New Roads was a bustling river town known for its merchants, steamboats, and small local businesses like this one.

It’s fascinating to look back and see how local commerce and community spirit have always been the heartbeat of Pointe Coupee. 145 years later, we’re proud to still be sharing those same hometown stories — one issue at a time. ❤️

📚 Thank you again to the Pointe Coupee Parish Library for helping preserve pieces of our parish’s history.

10/07/2025

🗞️ Banner Bites 10/7/25

The Banner team took a short stroll down to Morel's Restaurant today, one of New Roads’ most beloved spots for good food and even better views. Perched right on False River, Morel’s offers a laid-back dining experience where guests can enjoy lunch by the water — or even pull up by boat to grab a bite. 🚤

Manager Ashleigh ordered the Catch of the Day — fried speckled trout served with homemade potato salad, hush puppies, and tartar sauce. Reporter John tried the Chicken & Bacon Pasta, tossed in a rich Cajun cream sauce and served with French bread. Marketing & Sales representative Lizzie opted for the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, featuring grilled chicken, penne pasta, arugula, grape tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. 🍝

This week’s specials also offered a few standouts worth noting: Boneless Chicken Bites with buffalo sauce and ranch, Red Bean & Rice Balls made with andouille sausage, and a Shrimp-Stuffed Sweet Potato layered with braised spinach, mozzarella, and bacon. To finish, diners could indulge in Turtle Cupcakes, Caramel Crème Brûlée, or Toasted Almond Cake — the perfect sweet ending to a meal with a view. 🍰

With friendly faces, comfort food, and that unbeatable False River breeze, Morel’s continues to capture the heart (and appetite) of locals and visitors alike. Whether you walk from downtown or ride in by boat, this New Roads favorite is a must-stop for lunch with a view. ☀️

📍 210 Morrison Parkway, New Roads, LA

As part of our new Banner Bites series, the staff at The Pointe Coupée Banner will be highlighting different local restaurants each week — not to review them, but to showcase the many flavors our parish has to offer. From classic plate lunches to hidden gems and family-owned favorites, we’re on a mission to celebrate the small businesses that keep Pointe Coupée fed and thriving.

Where should the Banner eat next? Drop your suggestions in the comments and maybe you’ll see your favorite lunch spot featured soon! 🍴

10/07/2025

🗞️ It’s National Newspaper Week! 🗞️

This week we’re celebrating what local journalism is all about — community connection, accountability, and the stories that make Pointe Coupee our home.

From covering school events and city meetings to sharing the faces and businesses that shape our parish, The Pointe Coupee Banner has proudly kept our readers informed since 1880. 💚💙

Local journalism matters — because when our community stays informed, our future stays strong.

Join us in celebrating and the power of local storytelling.

📍 Tagging our friends at Louisiana Press Association for leading the charge in preserving local news across our state.

https://www.lapress.com/news/article_ccc71a00-d856-49c5-bf90-03740da3c61d.html

10/06/2025

📰 Banner Bites: Smoothies, Spice, and a Stop at The Red Straw

This week’s Banner Bites takes us to Redstraw Specialty Drinks and Treats, a local favorite known for its fresh smoothies, hearty lunch specials, and the kind of hometown service that keeps folks coming back.

Our manager, Ashleigh, opted for the “I Love Veggie” smoothie — a bright green blend of pineapple, coconut, and spinach that’s as refreshing as it is healthy. At just 270 calories and diabetic-friendly, it’s proof that flavor and nutrition can go hand in hand.

Lizzie, from our marketing department, decided to mix things up with a Fruit Cake Protein Drink alongside a 3-piece buffalo tender plate, fries, and extra ranch (because let’s be honest — there’s no such thing as too much ranch).

For anyone looking for a real southern-style plate lunch, The Red Straw’s special today was hard to pass up: Red Beans & Rice, Fried Chicken, Candied Yams, Spaghetti & Cheese, Cornbread, Cake, and a drink. Comfort food at its finest, all made right here in Pointe Coupee.

As part of our new Banner Bites series, the staff at The Pointe Coupee Banner will be highlighting different local restaurants each week — not to review them, but to showcase the many flavors our parish has to offer. From classic plate lunches to hidden gems and family-owned favorites, we’re on a mission to celebrate the small businesses that keep Pointe Coupee fed and thriving.

Where should the Banner eat next? Drop your suggestions in the comments and maybe you’ll see your favorite lunch spot featured soon! 🍴

10/03/2025

We did it — 5,000 strong! 🎉

The Pointe Coupee Banner has been bringing our parish the news since 1880, but what really makes it special is you. Every follow, every share, every story you’ve read or passed along has helped keep our community connected.

From New Roads to Morganza, from Livonia to Innis, we’re proud to be your hometown newspaper — online and in print — and to see this community grow together.

Here’s to 5,000 friends, neighbors, and families who make the Banner what it is. Thank you for trusting us to share your stories and keeping the Pointe Coupee spirit alive. 💚💙

10/01/2025

🐾✨ Meet Luna, our Pet of the Week! ✨🐾

Luna may be fully grown at 30 lbs, but she’s packed full of love. This sweet girl adores everyone she meets and is ready to find her forever family. 💕🐶

Want to meet Luna? Contact Pointe Coupee Parish Animal Services at 225-240-7250 or send them a message on Facebook. Don’t wait too long — a pup this lovable won’t be waiting around! 🐾🐾

05/14/2025

“A REALLY BIG SHOW”— Crews put the finishing touch on the stage in preparation for tonight’s free concert by singer John Foster, an Addis resident who is among the final three contestants in “American Idol” competition. His performance at Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park begins tonight at 7:30. Gates open at 6:30. Only clear bags will be allowed through the gates. Crowds may exceed 10,000 some local officials said.
The “American Idol” finals begin at 7 p.m. Sunday on ABC (WBRZ, Ch. 2 in Baton Rouge, WGNO, Ch. 26 in New Orleans and KATC, Ch. 3 in Lafayette).

05/14/2025