Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Editor’s Note: Please send calendar events by 4 p.m. Friday for inclusion in the following Wednesday’s paper.

Email event information to communitynews@bogalusadailynews.com

__________________________________________

2025 Public Way of the Cross Walk on Good Friday

An ecumenical group of Bogalusa and surrounding areas faith communities will gather for a public Way of the Cross Walk on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.

The practice started as a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, retracing the last steps of Jesus, before he was crucified and buried, according to the Christian faith. Today, many churches have their own small version of this, with 14 stations where Christians can follow the path. The prayerful walk commemorates Christ’s passion.

The group will begin the walk in front of the Bogalusa City Hall at Arkansas Avenue and Memphis Street at 5:00 P.M. Volunteers carry a large cross from station to station. At each stop, part of a hymn will be sung, and a reflection will be given on the theme.

Pastor Willie Gallager of Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church is the organizer of this community event. The participants are asked to arrive in front of City Hall by 4:00 p.m. for instructions. The march route will proceed from Arkansas Avenue to Austin Street, Austin to Church Street and Church Street to Poplas Street.

The public is invited to participate in the Way of the Cross Walk. .

Spartanette Club to host Annual Easter Egg Hunt April 5th

  The Spartanette Service Club will have their annual Easter Egg Hunt and Candied Egg Giveaway Saturday, April 5, 2025 at the Goodyear Park, 414 Avenue B next to the Y.W.C.A. from 2 P.M. –3 P.M.

The egg hunt will be divided into 2 exploration zones based on age. There will be a Golden Egg in each exploration zone. All children ages 1- 10 years of age are invited to attend.

Council on Aging to host annual Senior Citizen picnic April 25th

The Washington Parish Council on Aging will host their annual Senior Citizen Picnic on Friday, April 25th from 9am-12pm at Cassidy Park in Bogalusa. All seniors ages 60 and up are invited to come out and “Put Your Boots on the Ground.”You must call and pre-register before April 21st to have your name entered in for door prizes.

Student Art Show & Sale at Varnado Store Museum to run through month of April

Beginning on March 8th and continuing through the month of April, the 13th Annual Student Art Show and Sale with be on display at the Varnado Store Museum in Franklinton. The exhibit features art work by students from all over.Washington Parish grades K-12. This is a judged show in which ribbons and cash prizes are awarded to the winners in each grade category, as well as cash to the various schools. The amounts of cash awarded depends on support received from sponsors. The show is open to all schools, public and private, as well as home schools. There will be opportunities throughout the show for all visitors to vote for the Viewer’s Choice award. This very popular display received 3 83 entries last year and museum officials look forward to showing once again the art talent of the students of our parish.

Free Christian Movies every weekend in Bogalusa and Poplarville

Pastor Victor Robinson, Sr and the Glorious Church family invite everyone to join them every weekend in April for weekly christian movie showings.

Christian movies will be played weekly on an alternating schedule. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Everyone is welcome to come help promote Jesus for our city, town and nation.

Movie schedule for The Glorious Church in Poplarville, MS is as follows: Passion of Christ, Saturday, April 5th 3:00 p.m. and Show us the Father, on Saturday, April 19th.

Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, 1112 Ann St., Bogalusa, LA., will host the  Bogalusa movie showings on April 12th and 26th beginning at 3:00 p.m. Pastor Stanley Nathaniel invites everyone to attend. The movie schedule for Bogalusa is April 12th, Overcomer will be playing and April 26th, Too Busy Not to Pray will air.

KC Council Fish Fry’s to be held April 4th

KC Council Fish Fry’s will be held on March 21 and April 4, 2025, at the Annunciation Parish KC Pavilion serving Fish Plates for $10 from 3:00 to 8:00 PM or until all plates are sold. Tickets can be purchased from any KC Council Member or at church and school offices.

Watermelon Festival Poster entries deadline April 7th 

The Washington Parish Watermelon Festival committee recently released the 2025 poster contest rules and deadlines.

Posters will be judged in four divisions including Primary K-2, Elementary 3-6, Junior High 7-8, Senior High 9-12 and Adult. Entries will fall into two categories, Art and Non-talented Art

All posters will receive ribbons, top posters from each division will be displayed at the town hall in Franklinton.

Posters will be judged on originality, neatness and Watermelon festival related theme.

Posters can have media, but no glued pictures attached and must be on 12” x 22” poster, or half of a standard poster.

Posters should include the following:

Washington Parish Watermelon Festival

Franklinton Fairgrounds

July 11-13, 2025

On the back of the poster student participants must include Student’s name, School, Grade, Teacher’s name and parent’s phone number.

Posters are due to the WP LSU AgCenter, 1104 Bene Street, Franklinton, LA by April 7, 2025

For more information please contact Patricia Harrison at 985-515-6561, please leave a message if no answer, and Amy Varnado at 985-839-7855.

___________________________________________

The Washington Parish Watermelon Festival  is looking for craft and food vendors for the 2025 Washington Parish Watermelon Festival to be held July 11th-13th.

For more information please message the Washington Parish Watermelon Festival on facebook. Vendors can call or text Vendor Chairperson, Mary Bolton Warren at 601-331-3334 or send email requests to watermelonfvassociation@yahoo.com.

Washington Parish Fire District 2 to host Easter Egg Hunt

The Washington Parish Fire District 2 will host a Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 12th. The event starts at 12 p.m. and the egg hunt will start at 2 p.m. The event at 39618 Highway 10, Franklinton will feature over 1,000 eggs for the hunt along food and prizes. Follow their facebook page for updates.

Bush Recreation Center to host Hunter’s Education course Apr. 11th & 12th

For the third year, the Bush Rec Center has partnered with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to hold Hunter Education courses. This is a two day, free course open to everyone age 10 and up with Justin Pellerin as instructor. The course times are Friday 5:30 -10:30 pm and Saturday 8:00 am – 1:00 pm. The center is located at 30100 Crawford Cemetery Rd, Bush, LA.

Go to https://louisianaoutdoors.com/events/193507 to sign up as spots usually go fast.

Mt. Hermon Ruritan Club to hold golf tournament Apr. 12th

If you own a golf club you are invited to join the Mt. Hermon Ruitan Club Saturday, April 12th at the Franklinton Country Club for their Two man (or Two Ladies) Scramble 18 Hole Beryl Schilling Memorial Golf Tournament.

Entrance Fee is $200 per team, $5.00 Mulligans and they will have a shotgun start at 9:00am.

Registration prior to event is encouraged but will be accepted the morning of the event.

For more information contact Joni Sanders at 985-515-3775 or email mounthermonruitan@gmail.com.

Midway Mega Show set for May 2-3 at fairgrounds

The midway at the Washington Parish Fairground will be the place to be on May 2nd & 3rd! The show will feature a car show, live music, vendors, food, contests and camping.

This year, the Midway Mega Show is excited to partner with “Truth in Nature.” Proceeds from our event will be donated to support their mission of reaching young men in our community! The ded-icated individuals involved with this organization genuinely invest their hearts into helping these young men develop in various aspects of life.

We are still looking for sponsors and vendors for the event!

Lots of info will be released in the next week or so make sure you follow their page and the event!

https://www.facebook.com/share/1HeoES1Vy7/?mibextid=wwXIfr

For any additional info please dm or call Brady Mitchell at 985-516-9819

STEAM Family Festival to be held May 3-4 at fairgrounds 

The Bogalusa YMCA and TRCG will host a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math) Family Festival May 3rd from 10am-7pm and May 4th from 9am – 6 pm at the Washington Parish Fairgrounds in Franklinton. The event will feature hands on activities, food, vendors and entertainment. For more info contact Toni St. Phillip at 985-685-0178 or George Corkern at 601-419-4594.

ADAPT’s 4th Annual Community Unity Day to be held June 14th

The 4th Annual Community Unity Day, organized by ADAPT, will be on Saturday, June 14th, from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. at the Washington Parish Fairgrounds in Franklinton.

This event aims to foster unity, provide resources, and offer a day of enjoyment for families and friends.  With an extensive range of booths, the event promises a diverse experience with offerings in prevention, human resource services, arts and crafts, enticing food vendors, a car show and live stage entertainment. Attendees will be able to discover the various resources available within the parish.  Educating citizens on crucial life topics is a key objective of Community Unity Day. Vendors specializing in substance use education, sexual assault precautions, domestic violence awareness, and other pertinent subjects will be on hand to provide insights and information. Both youth and adults can engage in the various activities that cater to their interests.

Local businesses will attend the event, with vendors offering their arts and crafts and food products.  Those interested in participating as vendors are encouraged to contact Cheryl Bruton at 985-735-0160. Vendor spaces will be assigned as 10’x10’ booths with no charge for those promoting prevention, education, or services. Artisans, food vendors and others selling items for profit must pay $25.  Vendor registration must be submitted by Feb. 28th. For additional information, please contact the ADAPT Office at 985-735-0160.

Washington Parish Fire Dist. #1 seeking volunteers fire fighters

Washington Parish Fire District No. 1 is looking for dedicated volunteers to join their team. You can make a difference, protect your neighbors, and gain valuable skills. Volunteers will receive professional training, opportunities to serve and protect, teamwork and leadership experience.

Requirements are that applicants be at least 18 years old, physically fit and able to handle emergency situations and willing to commit time for training and service.

For more information call  985-839-6656 or visit them at 17311 Highway 25, Franklinton, LA 70438.

New Life Ministries offering Pickleball in Amite 

You may already be aware that Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America today.

New Life Ministries is offering Pickleball at 21526 LA-16, Amite, La. on Wednesdays  5-7 pm for Beginner’s; Thursday 5-8:30 pm and Saturday 9 am – 1 pm.

The group now have a Pickleball pro, Thomas Hockert, and he is giving lessons, providing all equipment and teaching as well as open play.  There is a $3.00 fee for all the time you are there, all day if you want and all equipment is provided.

Hockert can be contacted at  706-399-3556.  He is available for any questions you might have.

Bogalusa YMCA to host weekly Bible Study

The Bogalusa YMCA will host a continuing weekly Bible study from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. each Thursday evening beginning February 6th under the overarching theme, SON LIGHT: Illuminating the Mysteries of  the Bible. The class will be led by Don Myers who is a former Assistant Professor of Bible at Faulkner Christian University having interacted with and taught 6000 students during his eighteen year tenure. Awards received by Don include twice

Teacher of the Year and in 2011 he received the Master Teacher Award. The classes will be strictly taught from a non-denominational perspective using the Bible as the only source of the inerrant, inspired, and complete word of God.

Light refreshments will be offered at this free event and a Q & A period will be held at the end of each class. Lessons will come to life through PowerPoint presentations and printed take home lessons will be offered. All are richly welcomed.

Myers is quoted as saying, Jesus ascended back to heaven because He never sinned and true believers in Him will one day ascend to heaven because Jesus never sinned.

Pre-register by texting (251) 234-0887, or email RDMyers74@gmail.com

Washington Parish 2025 Calendar Reminders

The Wasington Parish School System have a few dates to add to your calendar for the remainder of the school year. Remember, you can check the digital calendar located on their website at wpsb.org/calendar anytime.

April 18th-25th – Spring Holiday

May 22nd – Last day for students

May 23rd – Report Cards mailed

Washington Parish STEM Center & Innovative Learning Center hosting upcoming events

Join us in supporting Sheriff Jason Smith’s initiative to keep Washington Parish clean! Lynne’s Legacy Outreach, operating as Washington Parish STEM—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—is excited to announce a series of monthly Cleanup Days throughout 2025, starting with the Richardson Town Community in Bogalusa, LA.

Community cleanliness is vital for fostering a healthy and vibrant environment. By coming together to beautify our neighborhoods, we not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of our city but also promote civic pride and responsibility. These efforts play a crucial role in supporting our youth and community initiatives, teaching the values of teamwork, stewardship, and community service.

Each month, we’ll focus on a different community, making a lasting impact across Bogalusa. Your participation is key to the success of this campaign. Any amount of time you can volunteer will be greatly appreciated. We have several areas where your help can make this a big success.

We also welcome donations of flowers to enhance the beauty of our community spaces.

All community members, organizations, clubs, or churches welcome. If you know any youth who need community service hours, this is a great opportunity for them to get involved and make a positive impact.

If you are a school team, club, or group, please join us. (Must be approved by a school administrator) Your group can benefit from Sheriff Smith’s Litter Initiative. Please read…… This is not associated or affiliated with current stem center programs, but any school is welcome to join us, it could help your school raise funds.

Mill Town Cruise Nights every second Thursday of the month

Mill Town Cruise Nights have resumed. The event is held on the second Thursday of the month at Zestos located at 100 Richmond Street Bogalusa, La. Starting this March-August with the $1,000 DOLLAR GIVEAWAY. Mark your calendars for this monthly event, 5:30-8:00 pm. See y’all there!

Play Bingo held weekly at the American Legion Hall

The American Legion invites everyone to come out every Thursday for Bingo. Jackpot is $1,000! Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and first number is drawn at 7:00 p.m. Food is also available.

Dementia/Alzheimer Caregiver Support Group meeting

Support offered to those greiving caregiver/caretakers of family members experiencing Dementia and Alzheimer’s. This group meeting is open to the public in the Washington Parish communities and surrounding areas.

Meetings give the opportunity for family members and caregivers to engage and support one another on the journey. The gathering will take place the second Thursday of each month at the Washington Parish Council on Aging Bogalusa Senior Center, 603 Willis Avenue, Bogalusa beginning at 12:00 p.m. For more information contact Miss E at 985-732-6869 or 985-732-6868.

Your local library has events for everyone all month long

Bogalusa Branch

Engaging community-themed free events and activities are happening at the Bogalusa Branch Library!  Some events may require pre-registration and a few may be geared toward specific ages.  Please remember children under 12 years of age cannot be in the library without a guardian or parent.

Upcoming Weekly Events:

Are you ready to go on a Bear Hunt?  If so, come to the library for Storytime every Wednesday @ 4:00.

Do you love crafts?  The library is the place for you every Thursday @ 12:00.  People of all ages can join in with the Crochet Crowd who help and encourage others to learn.  You will need a crochet hook, a size G or H, and yarn.

Do you like writing or listening to someone read a story?  Writers of all ages can drop in on Friday @ 10:00 for the Writers’ Group to share, if you choose, listen, and comment on the creativity of the writers within the group.  Selected members of the Writers’ Group will be judging entries for the Spring Writing Poetry Contest, which begins March 1st and ends March 31st.

Is building with Legos your thing?  Build with Legos with other 6-12 years old builders of the Lego Club every Friday @ 4:00. Participants must be pre-registered and guardians must stay with children under 12.

Monthly Events:

Do you love to cook? Are you competitive?  Do you love to eat?  The 1st Thursday of every month cooks with the Recipe Swap @ 11:00.   The theme is Italian cuisine for March.  Let the food fight begin. Who has the best dish? You decide.

Adults, do you enjoy reading and sharing?  The Original Book Club meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month @ 10:00.   Help us choose books to read and then give us your thoughts on the book.

Do you love making stuff with your hands?  Come one.  Come all to Craft Days on the 2nd Saturday and the 3rd Tuesday of each month @ 10:00.  March will be “raining hearts”. Join in the fun of creating a masterpiece for your home.

Are you fond of the good old days? The young and the “young at heart” can experience “other worlds” on the 4th Tuesday of the month @ 10:00 when Boogie Badgers Movie Club meets.  This Month the film “An Affair to Remember” stars Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr.

Do you love to figure out stuff?  Choose your character to go on a quest for treasure, success, and a stimulating time every other Friday @ 3:00 for Teen DND.  Participants must be pre-registered and be12-17 years old.

What will we do? And will it be fun?  Embrace the day, Saturday, March 15th @ 10:00, and discover Anime Day.

Wow!  The Bogalusa Branch Library is a busy place to be.  Please pop in the library to see the happenings!

___________________

Franklinton Branch

The Franklinton Branch Library announced some of their upcoming activities and events

All events are free. Some events are for specific ages. Children under 12 years of age cannot be in the library without a guardian. Some events require pre registration

Every Thursday at 3:30 PM we have a Storytime that involves a snack and activity/craft.

_____________________

Thomas Branch

The Thomas Branch Library invite everyone to their  upcoming activities and events for

All events are free. Some events are for specific ages. Children under 12 years of age cannot be in the library without a guardian. Some events require pre registration.

Crochet Class  @ 10am

Swap Recipes @11am

After School Story time Wednesdays @ 3:30

Westside Emmanuel has a host of activities for everyone

Wednesday Schedule:

11:00 AM Lunchtime Bible Study

11:11 AM Online Bible Study Begins

5:30 PM Westside Students and Kingdom Kids Ministry

6:00 PM Men’s and Women’s Bible Studies

Sunday Schedule:

9:15 AM Connect Groups Bible Study (Sunday School)

10:30 AM Worship Service

6:00 PM Small Group Bible Studies

Monday, Tuesday and Friday

7:00 PM NA Meetings in room 101

Text “WEBC” to 73256

Check out our Facebook page at:

Westside Emmanuel Baptist Church

Check out our YouTube Channel at: www.YouTube.com/WestsideEmmanuelBaptistChurch

For more information about

Westside, check out our website:

www.westsidebogalusa.com