FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 9, 2023
Contact: govpress@la.gov

BATON ROUGE, La. – Today, Gov. John Bel Edwards joined the Louisiana State Civil Service, Woman’s Hospital, and local elected officials to announce paid parental leave for all Louisiana state employees. The Governor’s Executive Order, in combination with the new Civil Service rule, provides six weeks of 100% paid parental leave for classified and unclassified state employees.

“I’m thrilled to announce the adoption of paid parental leave for the nearly 70,000 state employees in Louisiana,” said Gov. Edwards. “Paid parental leave means better outcomes for every family member, allowing parents to bond with their child without the financial stress of sacrificing their income, savings or paid sick days. By joining the 32 other states with paid parental leave policies, we are positioning ourselves to both attract and retain top talent in state. I believe this policy is pro-life, and I hope to see the legislature adopt it statewide in the near future. I’d like to thank State Civil Service, Representative Sam Jenkins, and Jackson Wright in my office for their hard work that made this possible.”

“This is a great day for Louisiana and the tens of thousands of state employees who will be covered by this policy,” said Rep. Sam Jenkins. “The policy being implemented today will provide a very important benefit to state employees, and I appreciate the state taking the lead. With it, we are sending a signal to young families that we want to attract and retain them in Louisiana.”

“We know that paid parental leave is a good thing for our state government, and that it’s going to be even better for the recruitment and retention of employees,” said State Civil Service Director Byron Decoteau. “This policy allows parents to focus on bonding with their child, strengthening and building their family unit without the financial worries that often come with unpaid leave.“

State employees who are legal, adoptive, or foster parents are entitled to a parental leave benefit of 6 weeks at 100% pay within 12 weeks of a birth or placement for adoption or foster care to promote bonding with a new child. Employees become eligible for the benefit after working for the state for at least one year, which mirrors eligibility for unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). The benefit becomes effective January 1, 2024.

Published in Louisiana Sportsman by Glynn Harris on November 1, 2023

Logan Leone, a 22-year-old lawn service worker who lives in Stonewall, was proud when his new gun, a CVA .308, came in. However, he had an unexpected chance to head to his deer stand on Saturday, Oct. 28, before he had a chance to get his new rifle sighted in. So he resorted to Plan B.

“I borrowed a rifle from a friend, Kyle McAllen, a Weatherby .257, a gun I had never shot, since my new gun was not sighted in,” he said.

Hot and muggy

That Saturday morning dawned hot and muggy in DeSoto Parish, and despite conditions not conducive for deer movement, Leone climbed into his box stand on his grandfather’s 280 acres around 6:30 a.m. with his borrowed gun.

“My buddy and I were texting about the warm muggy weather and were talking about there not being much chance of even seeing a deer under these conditions, but I decided to just stay put anyhow,” he said.

He had just laid his phone aside with he heard movement behind his stand. A deer was walking up behind him at 10 yards.

“I looked over to my right and there was this huge buck I had seen on camera for three days prior to this hunt,” Leone said. “The photos were all at night except there was one where he came out in late afternoon. When I got my eyes on him, I knew it was the big one on camera. I froze because he was so close and I didn’t want to risk him seeing me. He never looked in my direction, but started walking along the wood line toward the feeder.”

The buck was walking straight away from Leone and he never presented a broadside shot until he got to the feeder, which was set up along a pipeline some 180 yards from the stand.

“When he got to the feeder, he began feeding and then turned broadside, giving me a shot,” Leone said. “I hit the trigger and for awhile I couldn’t see anything; the sun had started rising and was in my eyes so I had no idea if I hit him or not until I spotted him running past the feeder.”

Amazed at what he saw

As Leone watched, the front legs of the buck begin buckling and he fell there about 40 yards on the other side of the feeder.

“I got down and walked to where the buck had fallen and I didn’t really know what to think,” Leone said. “I knew from the trail cam pictures he was a really good buck and it was hard for me to process what I was looking at.”

The buck sported an awesome rack of 15 non-typical points with a spread of 18 inches. Main beams were 22 and 24 inches each with bases around 4 inches. The buck was determined to be around 4 ½ years old and weighed in at 175 pounds.

“I took him to a friend who had scored lots of deer and the measurements he came up with totaled 190 inches,” Leone said. “My friends told me I may as well hang it up because there was no way I’d ever beat this one.”

With Leone’s streak of luck using a borrowed rifle he had never shot before to down a monster buck, you wouldn’t want to bet against him.

**********MEDIA ADVISORY**********

State Superintendent will hold virtual media availability November 13 at 10 a.m. to officially release letter grades for 2022-23 school year

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) will release 2023 performance scores for the state’s public schools and systems on November 13. State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley will release the scores during a virtual media briefing that morning at 10 a.m. The briefing will include a presentation on statewide, school system, and school results, as well as a question and answer session for working media members. 

WHAT: LDOE releases 2023 performance scores

WHO: State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley

WHEN: Monday, November 13 at 10 a.m.

WHERE: Zoom link | 312-626-6799 | ID: 984 1395 1302 | Passcode: 466315 

CONTACT: Ted Beasley | 225-427-2983 | ted.beasley@la.gov

ADDITIONAL DETAILS: The LDOE issues school performance scores for public schools, which are based on student achievement data. To clearly communicate the quality of school performance to families and the public, Louisiana adopted letter grades (A-F). All schools with sufficient data receive school performance scores. The LDOE will also release 2023 Early Childhood Performance Profiles. Each publicly-funded child care center, Head Start, and school serving children birth to five in Louisiana receives a performance profile that includes a rating based on rigorous classroom observations. Each network of providers within a community also receives a performance profile.

On Tuesday, November 07, 2023, it was brought to our attention that a resident inside DeSoto Parish had received a call from someone claiming to be with the Federal Bureau of Investigations. The scammer claimed that the individual was under investigation, and provided a fake Federal ID#, Case #, and asked for information such as the last four digits of the individuals social security number. Since this call was received by a resident of our Parish, the resident seeks to inform others, especially our elderly community, that this scammer went the extra-mile to appear legitimate. We obviously do not want anyone to fall victim to these scams, so here are some tips to consider if you receive a similar call:
– First remember, these scammers change their tactics up often, and certain details mentioned above are subject to change. It is up to you to protect your identity and finances by remaining vigilant and wary of a potential scam.
– Remember that calls such as the one described above are far from normal. Never trust an unsolicited caller requesting information. The first 5 digits of most social security numbers are fairly predictable and easy to guess….this is why they ask for the last four. DO NOT provide that information to anyone you do not know.
– If you feel as though the call could be legitimate for any reason, tell the caller you are going to hang up and contact their office independently. Do not accept ANY phone numbers or emails they provide to you. Research on your own who to contact, and do your own due diligence.
– Note that 99.9% of the time these scammers originate from outside of the United States, and accents can sometimes be a big identifier. There is very little local law enforcement can do to track down or hold accountable scamming foreign actors. However, there is a website where these types of scams can be properly reported. Visit http://www.FTC.gov where you will find a very visible button to “Report Fraud” or Identity Theft.
– Lastly, if you find yourself scammed out of a sum of money please inform our office to assist you. Also, contact your bank or credit card company to start the process of protecting yourself from any future transactions immediately.

Scammers prey on our elderly community the most, but many others have fallen victim as well. Scams can range from a fake FedEx package notification, a Warrant for your Arrest, informing you that a relative has been incarcerated, a fake Facebook Messenger conversation asking for a code because they are locked out of their account, to an alleged virus on your device. But they all have a few common factors that you can EASILY pick up on…

RED FLAGS TO CONSIDER:
– Scammers will attempt to keep you on the phone until they have achieved their mission in getting you to pay money. Their business is made on knee-jerk decisions, threats of jail time, among many other threats. No business or agency should ever be acting unprofessionally by cursing, making threats, or attempting to keep you on the phone without verifying who you are talking to. Simply hang up and block the number.
– As technology improves, so do the scammers tactics. We have seen our share of “I can’t believe they fell for that” as well as, “Wow, that was actually pretty convincing.” Just remember, you are the first line of defense to protecting your identity and your money. And cleaning up the mess a scammer has caused can sometimes take an enormous amount of your time. Verify everything, and embrace skepticism.

Most scammers will attempt to get you to pay money using unconventional methods such as: An Apple iTunes Card, Steam Card, Gift Cards, even Western Union among others. A great rule of thumb is to NEVER pay a penny or give any information until you are 100% confident in who you are talking to. Simply say, “Sure, I’ll pay. But first I need to call my local law enforcement to confirm this is real and I’ll call you back.” Chances are the Scammer will NOT like this response and will attempt to convince you otherwise. THAT is how you determine this is 100% a Scam.

Lastly, you can call our Public Relations Deputy, Mark Pierce at 318-461-0504. I would much prefer helping to prevent you from becoming a victim than to be pointing you to an investigator after your accounts have been compromised. The above number is my cell, and you can text or call anytime.
Be Safe. Stay Informed. Don’t pass judgment on my spelling or grammar.

Mark Pierce, PIO
Public Relations & Social Media
Cell: (318) 461-0504
Office: (318) 872-3956 Ext. 251
mpierce@dpso.org

Over my many years of tournament bass fishing, there have been some really great events. Some of the best tournaments today are benefit events where the proceeds go to a particular person or group with special needs. These types of tournaments are usually team events with entry fees ranging from $200 to $400. A lot of the time anglers who win will donate their winnings back to the event depending on the cause.

But once upon a time, there was a bass tournament like no other. It was a tournament that was held with high regard in North Louisiana, one where anglers would literally sleep on the sidewalk outside Reeves Marine in Shreveport the night before registration just to make sure they got in since there was a limit of 100 boats. It was the Reeves Marine All-City Championship!

What an event it was, as anglers were treated like royalty. It truly became a prestigious event and was such an honor to win. It was the best of the best in the Shreveport/Bossier area including top anglers who could compete with just about anyone across the country. One thing I figured out in the early to mid 1990’s was that the Shreveport/ Northwest Louisiana area produced some great anglers who not only had success locally, but on a regional stage as well.

The Reeves Marine All-City Championship was a team event and started out on the shores of Cross Lake. Over time it moved to the Red River for a brief period before it finally came to an end in the early 2000’s. Why was this tournament so special? Well for starters, there was a team/rules meeting the night before the event where anglers were fed a great catfish dinner with all the fixings. There were some really good door prizes given away like rods, reels, tackle boxes, and some of the latest and hottest baits on the market. Skeeter Boats was a major sponsor of this event as well and gave away a lot of products from rain gear to lifejackets.

But this tournament was very different in the fact that it was a two-day back-to-back weekend event. All 100 teams fished the first day with only the top 20 returning the next weekend to decide the winner. Just to make the Top 20 was quite an accomplishment! These teams received some nice embroidered All-City Championship jackets and tote bags. Everyone who made the final-day Championship got a check.

Winning this event put you and your partner in select company and more importantly, you had bragging rights for a whole year. There was a huge four-to-five-foot trophy that stayed on display at Reeves Marine where the individual names of the winning team were engraved and placed on the trophy forever. There were TV and newspaper interviews and a wealth of exposure. There really has been no other tournament since then that has had the prestige of the Reeves Marine All-City Championship.

Today, many anglers would love to see this event return to its former glory days, but alas, it’s now a different time and a different era. Back during the 1990’s and early 2000’s there were only a handful of tournaments all year long, so it made the All-City Championship a little extra special. Today, you can fish a tournament every single weekend from January through September. Therefore, it probably would not have the luster it had in the beginning where guys slept on the steps of Reeves Marine just to secure a spot in the event.

Maybe one day, someone will be able to bring an event of this caliber back to Northwest Louisiana and give recognition to some of the best bass fishermen in the country. Till next time, good luck, good fishing and don’t forget your sunscreen as Melanoma does not discriminate.

Steve Graf

Louisiana Wildlife Federation and Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries team up to present the awards for the first time since 2019

(October 26, 2023, Baton Rouge, LA) Do you know a young hunter who had a special hunt in 2023? Maybe they harvested their first deer, duck, or squirrel? Or maybe their hunt was special because they got to spend time in the Louisiana outdoors with family and friends. Regardless of the outcome of their special hunt, the Louisiana Wildlife Federation (LWF) and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) want to know about it because they could be the 2023 Youth Hunter of the Year.

LWF and LDWF are teaming up to honor one boy and one girl Youth Hunter of the Year for 2023. Nominations are now being accepted for boys and girls who are Louisiana residents and were 15 years or younger at the time of the hunt. The hunt does not have to take place in Louisiana, but it must have happened within the 2023 calendar year (January 1 – December 31, 2023).

To enter the 2023 Youth Hunter of the Year contest:

• Complete and submit nomination form found at www.lawildlifefed.org
• Submit a short story written by the nominee describing the hunt
• Submit a photo(s) of the hunt

Eligibility Requirements:

• Hunter must be a Louisiana resident
• Hunter must be 15 years old or younger at the time of the hunt
• The hunt must take place between January and December 2023
• Short story should be written by the youth 
• The hunt does not have to result in the harvesting of an animal
• One entry per youth hunter
• Previous winners are not eligible

Our two winners will receive a plaque in recognition of their achievement and a $100 gift card from Bowie Outfitters. The winners will also be recognized at LWF’s Annual Conservation Achievement Awards banquet in April. Everyone who enters will be included in a drawing for a $100 Bowie Outfitters gift card.

Special thanks to our Contest sponsors: the Baton Rouge Chapter of Delta Waterfowl, Andrew J. Harrison, Jr. with Harrison Law, LLC, and Bowie Outfitters – Baton Rouge.

Visit lawildlifefed.org/youth-hunter to learn more and enter. Deadline to Nominate a Youth Hunter is Friday, February 2, 2024.

Past Winners

• 2015 – Earl Darby, Kamryn Paige Hatton
• 2016 – Seth Gottardi, Kindal Tonn
• 2017 – Cameron Dauzat, Lydia Capritto
• 2018 – Even Alderson, Kynlee Buras
• 2019 – Douglas Fry, Hagen Reitzell

Contact: Jimmy Frederick, LWF Communications Director, lwf@lawildlifefed.org, 225-344-6707, Cell 225-317-2046

About Louisiana Wildlife Federation

Established in 1940, Louisiana Wildlife Federation is a statewide conservation education and advocacy organization with more than 10,000 members and 21 affiliate groups representing a broad constituency of hunters, anglers, birders, boaters, campers, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Members of the various parish 4-H clubs in northwest Louisiana are going to see the Mudbugs January 12.  4-H is offering members a special event package for $20. Game time is 7pm.

4-Hers will enjoy skating before the game, a meal, and the game. Members will have the opportunity to ride on the Zamboni and participate in games during intermission. 

You can now purchase tickets online via the link: https://forms.gle/Kdm7FbEdFuzCtvLv8

SHREVEPORT – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announced the major rehabilitation project for a section of I-20 in Bossier City is progressing well, and will be transitioning into phase 2 over the next few weeks.

As part of phase 1, the contractor is nearing completion of the outside diversion pavement that will serve to handle vehicle traffic when the full reconstruction work begins. Traffic has been flowing in the inside (left lane) during this portion of work.

As the transition to phase 2 begins, motorists should be aware that the contractor will be replacing the orange cones and barrels with concrete barricades. This is a safety mechanism to prevent vehicles from leaving the travel lane and entering the reconstruction area.

Once phase 2 fully begins, the current traffic configuration will swap, and vehicles will be shifted to the outside (right) lanes to allow work to begin on the removal of the existing inside lanes.

DOTD anticipates being fully transitioned into phase 2 later this month (Nov.), which coincides with the original project schedule.

Drivers are reminded that the intermittent on- and off-ramp closures will continue during this transition period to allow for the placement and adjustment of the concrete barricades.

It’s imperative that drivers remove all distractions while behind the wheel, drive cautiously through the construction zone, and be aware of crews and equipment on site. I-220 remains the primary detour for avoiding congestion related to the construction project.

Additional information:

Call 511, visit http://www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at http://www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and Twitter pages.

Contact Information:

Erin Buchanan
Public Information Officer
Shreveport-Bossier District
(318) 549-8402
erin.buchanan@la.gov

NOV 07, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

DeSoto Parish Schools today announced that it will be implementing OPENGate Metal Detection Systems at sporting events starting with the November 9, 2023, basketball jamboree at Logansport High School. The OPENGate system is a state-of-the-art weapons detection system designed to be fast, efficient, and accurate.

“The safety of our fans, players, and staff is our top priority,” said DeSoto Parish Schools’ Superintendent Clay Corley. “In light of recent events across the state and country, The OPENGate system will help us to ensure that everyone who enters our stadium can enjoy the game in a safe environment.”

The OPENGate system is the same system used at professional sporting events, museums, and other venues. It uses a combination of advanced sensors and software to detect weapons, including firearms, knives, and explosives. The system’s design minimizes false positives so that fans can move through the security checkpoint quickly and easily.

“We are confident that the OPENGate system will be a valuable asset to our overall security and look forward to implementing the system throughout the district to provide a safe environment for all,” said Clay Corley.

About the OPENGate Metal Detection System:

The OPENGate metal detection system is developed and manufactured by CEIA, a leading provider of security and inspection technology. The OPENGate system is the first and only fully open, active walk-through detection system. It is composed of two freestanding pillars that do not require any mechanical or electrical connection between them.

The OPENGate system is portable and easy to use, making it ideal for use at large events like football games. It is also weatherproof for outdoor use.

For more information on how to distribute this news release and use DeSoto’s branding, contact Communications Coordinator, Peyton Dufour at peyton.dufour@desotopsb.com.

On April 12, 1861, fighting began in the Civil War when Confederate forces opened fire on Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. In September of that year, 16-year-old Thomas Ward enlisted in the Union Army and became a private in the 21st Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Thomas, who was underage by almost two years, lied about his age to enlist. Thomas took part in several battles in Georgia and Tennessee before he was sent to perform escort duties for generals including General Ulysses S. Grant.

In October 1864, Thomas reenlisted and was promoted to second lieutenant with the 6th Michigan cavalry where he served as aide-de-camp to the cavalry’s general. Between June 1864 and April 1865, Union and Confederate soldiers struggled for control of Petersburg, Virginia. Petersburg was strategically important because several rail lines connected at the city, and because numerous wagon roads which were used as supply lines met at a junction known as Five Forks. The final conflict in the fight for Petersburg was at Five Forks.

On April 3, 1865, Thomas took part in the Battle of Namozine Church. During the fight, Union soldiers charged Confederate barricades. While being fired upon by the Confederate soldiers, Thomas and his horse jumped one of the barricades. An enemy bullet struck his horse, but Thomas was unharmed. The Confederates were surprised by his bold action and fell back in confusion. A short distance away, Thomas saw the confused flag bearer. He spurred his horse and headed straight for the frightened flag bearer. Rather than attacking the flag bearer, he grabbed the flag of the Second North Carolina cavalry. Capturing the battle flag was demoralizing to the already confused soldiers. In addition to capturing the battle flag, Thomas took three officers and eleven enlisted men as prisoners.

Three days later, Thomas fought in the Battle of Sailor’s Creek. Similar to his actions in the Battle of Namozine Church, Thomas had his horse jump the enemy barricade while being fired upon. This time, however, Confederate soldiers surrounded Thomas and his horse. Without a moment’s hesitation, Thomas began firing his pistol on both sides of his horse. The Confederate soldiers scattered. In the confusion, Thomas saw the flag bearer and charged toward him. As he approached the flag bearer, a shot struck Thomas in his jaw under his right ear. The force of the shot knocked him back in his saddle. Thomas righted himself, grabbed the flag from the flag bearer with one hand, and fired a pistol shot into the chest of the flag bearer with the other. Thomas returned to the Union line waving the captured battle flag. He handed the flag to an aide and turned his horse to return to the battle. His commanding general saw Thomas’s bleeding wound and ordered him to report to the surgeon. When Thomas ignored the order, the general had Thomas arrested and sent to the rear of the line for medical attention. Luckily, Thomas’s injury was not serious.

In April 1865, Union soldiers presented 85 captured Confederate battle flags to the War Department. Of the 85 flags presented, Thomas presented the two flags that he had personally captured. For his bold actions in these two battles, Thomas became the first solider in American history and the only Federal soldier in the Civil War to be awarded two Medals of Honor.

Following the Civil War, Thomas continued to serve in the Union Army as aide-de-camp to the same superior officer he had served under during the Civil War. For the next 11 years, Thomas fought in the conflict known as the Indian Wars. On June 25, 1876, Thomas was among the soldiers who fought against various tribes of Plains Indians in the Battle of the Greasy Grass. During the battle, the Plains Indians completely destroyed the five companies of American soldiers. Thomas’s body was so badly mutilated that he could only be identified by a tattoo on his arm. Also killed in the battle were two of Thomas’s brothers and his nephew.

Few people remember Thomas because he was overshadowed, even in death, by his older brother. Thomas Ward, the first man in American history to be awarded two Medals of Honor, who died in the same battle as his famous brother, had a famous last name… Custer. Thomas Ward Custer, the younger brother of George Armstrong Custer, died in what the Indians call the Battle of the Greasy Grass. History books refer to it as the Battle of Little Big Horn or Custer’s Last Stand.

Big Zach’s, 223 Main Street, Logansport, will host their 10th Annual Veterans Appreciation Day on Saturday November 11. All Veterans will be served a Complimentary Catfish Dinner or Hamburger Steak Dinner with a Drink Free of charge from 11am – 8pm as a thank you to Veterans Past and Present for their service to our Country. Please bring your military ID or discharge papers.

Pelican Library will host Adult Bingo from 2-4pm on November 13. Lots of fun, fellowship and a change to win some great prizes. Call Angelica at 755-2353 for more information.

Grand Cane will celebrate Christmas on Da Bayou with a Christmas parade and market on Saturday, December 2 from 8am to 2pm. The parade will start at 11am. Vendors are needed. Email grandcanemerchants@gmail.com for more information.

Matthew Wrigley
November 21, 1942 – November 3, 2023
Service: Friday, November 10 at 1pm at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel, Mansfield

Deacon Roosevelt Lane
January 1, 1937 – November 2, 2023
Service: Saturday, November 11 at 11am at Sunshine Baptist Church, Mansfield

Glynell Jones
October 25, 1965 – November 5, 2023
Service: Saturday, November 11 at 1pm at St. John Baptist Church, Mansfield

Frank Edwards Jr.
January 24, 1997 – November 3, 2023
Service: Saturday, November 11 at 1pm at Old Morning Glory Baptist Church, Mansfield

News Release
November 04, 2023
Sheriff Jayson Richardson
DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office

In the late evening hours of November 3, 2023, Deputies with the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to 1608 Mary Street in Mansfield, Louisiana, in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies located a black male lying face down on the ground, not moving or breathing, who appeared to be suffering from a gunshot wound. Deputies rendered CPR, and the victim was transported to DeSoto Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. At this moment we can confirm the deceased was identified as 26yo Frank Edwards Jr. of Mansfield. Our condolences to family and friends during this difficult time.

This in an ongoing investigation. Further information regarding a suspect may be released as new details emerge. If you or someone you know has information pertaining to this case, please contact our office at 318-872-3956 to speak with an investigator. You may also submit a tip anonymously at www.P3Tips.com

Mark Pierce, PIO
Public Relations & Social Media
Cellular Forensics Operator/Analyst
DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office
Cell: (318) 461-0504
Office: (318) 872-3956 Ext. 251

North Desoto clinched the 4A District-1 Championship with a 64-29 win over Northwood. Landry Wyatt had a huge night, scoring four touchdowns and finished the game with 176 yards receiving. The Griffins finished the season ranked #1 in Division II (Non-Select) and earned a bye the first round. They will play the winner of the Lakeshore/Deridder contest in 2nd round.

Logansport secured the district 3-1A title in a 20-3 win against St. Mary’s and finished the season beating Montgomery 56-0. The Tigers end the season ranked #1 in Division IV (Non-Select) and are rewarded a first round bye. They will play the winner of the Franklin/Grand Lake matchup in the 2nd round. 

Mansfield finished the season with a win over Red River 42-20. That’s the second consecutive year with a win over the Bulldogs. The #18 Wolverines travels to #15 Marksville High for the first round of the playoffs Friday, November 10 at 7:00pm. Admission is $10 at the gate. 

Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest of the attached suspect. Tips can be made anonymously. We don’t need your name, just your information. You can provide law enforcement with a tip by visiting www.P3Tips.com, by calling 1-800-505-7867, or by filling out the Submit A Tip form in the “Forms & Tips” section of the DeSoto Parish Sheriff App.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

It is our honor to announce that the late Walter E. Dorroh Sr. has been bestowed one of Louisiana State University’s highest military honors with his selection into the Hall of Honor of the Cadets of the Ole War Skule.

The induction activities will occur on the LSU campus November 9-11, the weekend of the LSU versus University of Florida football game.

To those in DeSoto Parish, Walter will always be remembered for his presidency of Community Bank of Louisiana (formerly known as Mansfield Bank and Trust). Mr. Dorroh came from a family of three generations in banking in Louisiana, Florida and Mississippi. He was CEO of banks in Olla, Jena and Mansfield. Mr. Dorroh was very proud of his military service in World War II (even though he didn’t boast of his outstanding feats of noble service) and his association with his beloved alma mater. A lifelong member of the LSU Alumni Association and season ticket holder, he was honored in 2003 as the DeSoto Parish Alumnus of the Year. One of the founding members of DeSoto Chapter of the LSU Alumni Association, the chapter honored him with an endowed academic scholarship in his name for scholars from DeSoto Parish, which he served as a community leader in philanthropy and a business leader. He was very active in the VFW serving as an officer, LaSalle Parish School Board serving as President and officer in the Olla Kiwanis Club. Mr. Dorroh graduated in 1941 from LSU where he was president of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity and on the LSU boxing Team, then he enlisted in the Marines but due to a knee medical issue, he was turned back. Not to be deterred, he enlisted in the United States Air Corp. Graduating with a commission from pilot training, he served in Europe and Northern Africa campaigns as a pilot of B-26 Maurader aircraft, which Senator Harry Truman labeled a “widow maker” due to its difficulties in landing and controlling in flight. The Mauruders were the oldest medium range bomber group in the Mediterranean theater of combat, yet he piloted 51 bombing missions without losing a plane or soldier. On his 49th mission, his plane was hit by anti-aircraft fire and he was able to pilot his damaged plane back to his base. He flew missions over Florence, Rome, Bologna, mini gun positions on the French Riveria, rail bridges in the Po Valley, the Astiense rail yards, Florence rail yards and various sites in Northern Africa. When he returned home, he served as an instructor at the flight school to train other pilots for B-26 planes.

Dorroh was awarded the Croux de Guerre with palms by the French government, Distinguished Unit Badge with Gold Leaf Clusters, the Air Medal with 8 Gold Clusters and was entitled to wear the blue, gold framed Distinguished Unit Ribbon. His unit was the only AAF unit to be cited by both the French and United States governments and to be cited by President Roosevelt twice for bombing raid accuracy on Rome and Florence.

Please join us in congratulating the Dorroh family for this incredible honor.

The DeSoto Parish Journal congratulates Michael Mynes for being the most accurate college football picker of the week. Michael won $100 from the Marketplace Chevrolet College Football Pickers Contest.

Michael correctly guessed he winner of eight out of ten college games. Can you be the best picker this week. CLICK HERE to go to the entry blank. Next week we could be congratulating you and sending you $100.

By: Glynn Harris

On Thanksgiving Day years ago, I was driving my truck home through Bienville Parish after a holiday visit with my folks when a big buck appeared out of nowhere and I hit it. I drove home with one headlight and a smashed grill.

Fast forward a dozen or so years. I had my second encounter with a deer when a spike dashed into the path of my car in Natchitoches Parish. That’s two collisions with a deer so far during my lifetime. If I was driving in W. Virginia, the leading state for deer/vehicle collisions over the next 12 months, my chances of hitting a deer would be one in 38.

I suppose I’ve been fortunate to have only collided with two deer but others have not been so fortunate.

Why are such encounters becoming an increasing problem? For one, there are more drivers on the road. For another, the deer population is growing all across the country and when you see deer habitat giving way to urban sprawl, it’s inevitable that such encounters will increase. Need proof? All you have to do is drive a few miles along the interstate or on roads leading into town and count the deer carcasses you see.

The majority of deer/vehicle collisions occur in states to the north, many of which have restrictive hunting regulations and short deer seasons. The top ten states where most collisions occur in order of frequency are: W. Virginia, Montana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Mississippi, South Dakota, Virginia and Missouri.

Authorities estimate that over the past two years, 1.8 million deer/vehicle collisions have occurred across the country.

State Farm Insurance Company has provided some tips and words of caution to help prevent deer/vehicle collisions.

• Be alert to deer crossing signs; they’re there for a purpose.
• Don’t swerve. If a car crash is inevitable, maintain control of your vehicle and don’t veer off the road.
• Brake as necessary. If you can avoid hitting the animal, reduce your speed, honk your horn and tap your brakes to warn other drivers. If there are no other drivers behind you, brake hard.
• Remember peak season. Animal collisions happen most during October through December, which is hunting and mating season.
• Remember meal time. Watch for animals in the road between dusk and dawn..
• Watch for herds. If you see one deer, there are probably more nearby.
• Don’t use a whistle. No scientific evidence supports that car-mounted deer whistles work.

One of those deer/vehicle collisions a few years ago affected me in a very personal way. I had cataract surgery that summer on both my eyes resulting in clear vision like I had not had since I was a teenager. I was elated with the results and I owe the removal of my clouded lens and replacement with new clear ones to an individual I came to practically hold in reverence, Dr. William Steen, founder of the Steen-Hall Eye Institute in Shreveport who performed my surgery.

A few weeks after my last surgery, Dr. Steen was riding to work on a beautiful fall day on his motorcycle just outside the Shreveport city limits when a buck dashed into the cycle, throwing Dr. Steen to the pavement, resulting in injuries that took his life. I am devastated by the loss of such a gifted surgeon and urge caution when you get behind the wheel or crawl on your bike.

A deer is a beautiful graceful animal when seen from your deer stand but not when one is making a bee-line for your vehicle.

Nancy Jones, widow of the late Country music icon George Jones will be in Many on Saturday, Nov. 11, for an autograph party to celebrate her new book, “Playin’ Possum, My Memories of George Jones.” The event will be at Many City Hall, 965 San Antonio Ave., from 10 a.m. until noon. There is no admission charge, and everyone is invited to attend.

The book will be on sale at the event, and Ms. Jones will autograph, pose for pictures and visit with attendees.

A native of Mansfield, she lived in northwest Louisiana a long time, marrying and having two daughters before moving to Shreveport, where she worked on the assembly line at Western Electric.

In November 1981, Nancy was invited by friend Linda Morris to go to Rochester, NY for a George Jones concert. Linda was dating a member of Jones’ road crew. Nancy did not know who George Jones was but was talked into going. She was introduced to the singer, and they immediately connected. They were married on March 4, 1983.

The new book reveals little known poignant as well as humorous stories about the Country music legend, sharing honestly his battles against the demons that sought to control and destroy him. Millions of people knew and loved the singer, but few people know that behind the man and his golden voice was a strong, feisty woman who not only saved his life from cocaine addiction, alcoholism and other abusive and self-destructive behaviors, but was also instrumental in helping him find a new lifepath of faith.
Married for more than 30 years, Nancy knew George better than anyone else on earth – the good George and the bad George – the horrendous and the hilarious. Nancy was a tenacious fighter, and most people who knew George credit Nancy with saving his life and rebuilding his career. Together, they brought joy and light to millions of people. He died April 26, 2013, at the age of 81.

Nancy hopes many of her friends from Natchitoches and Sabine Parishes will attend the autograph party in Many. Refreshments will be served, and everyone is invited to attend. Those who wish to do so are also invited to bring a veteran photo to display on the special Veterans Day Table of Honor during the event, which falls on the holiday. Book sales will be cash or card.

Save the date. Saturday, November 25 in Logansport.

Bryan Martin Homecoming Show!
Tickets will be at will call day of event.
General Admission entry starts at 4:15 pm
Show starts at 5:00 pm

Presale tickets on sale now until November 22. Adult $10, Child (11 and younger) $5. Cooler pass $25. Can be purchased through PayPal, Venmo, and Cash App. When you purchase your tickets please put in the comment section name, phone number, quantity, and ticket type (2 adult and 1 child etc).

At the gate tickets will be $15 for adults and $10 for kids.

If you have any questions contact Tori Rankin Dyess (318)-780-0637 or Debbie Amox (318)-426-9336.

PayPal Djamox1@aol.com
Cash App $torikeck1977
Venmo Tori-Keck

There will be a DeSoto Parish Police Jury Budget and Finance Committee meeting Thursday, November 9, 2023 starting at 5pm. The Insurance Committee will meet at 5:30pm. The meetings will take place in the Police Jury Meeting Room, 101 Franklin Street.

BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMITTEE AGENDA

Greg Baker, Chairman, Kyle Kennington, Trina Boyd-Simpson, Richard Fuller and B. D. Mitchell

1.   CALL TO ORDER
2.   INVOCATION
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4.   CALL FOR ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
5.   GUEST AND PUBLIC COMMENTS
6.   BUDGET AND FINANCE ITEMS
7. Approve the 2024 Solid Waste Budget
8.   ADJOURN

INSURANCE COMMITTEE AGENDA

Keith Parker, Chairman, B. D. Mitchell, Trina Boyd-Simpson, Jimmy Holmes and Richard Fuller

1.   CALL TO ORDER
2.   CALL FOR ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS
3.   GUEST AND PUBLIC COMMENTS
4.   INSURANCE ITEMS
5. Approve the best group health insurance proposal from the Insurance Broker for the DeSoto Parish Police Jury.
6.   ADJOURN

When you sit in the pulpit and watch the congregation, there are some interesting sights to behold.

I have seen many bowed heads. The heads are bowed not at the time of prayer, rather they are bowed about twelve minutes into the sermon. They are either praying for the preacher or they are in deep-Sunday-afternoon-holding-the-remote-NFL-nap mode. I say that because I notice men sleeping, not the women! What’s up with that? I choose to believe the men are praying for the preacher, or for the sermon to end.

The other stuff you see are parents struggling with children. I have never been bothered by loud, active, or fussy children. The church is so blessed to have children present; we should enjoy them in whatever mode they are in during a worship service. The next time you hear a fussy or loud child in church, thank God they are present!

A couple of Sunday’s ago I looked up into the balcony at the end of the service. In the balcony was family with their daughter. The girl, by my preacher estimation, was at the stage where walking was a new thing.
She was in the middle aisle of the balcony, just under the Rose Window that Trinity moved from a previous location. It is a large, beautiful Rose window. So above her head is this huge reminder of the dignified history of Trinity Methodist Church.

During the last hymn, the young girl was dancing in the aisle. She was dancing with complete innocent abandonment. She was dancing with joy, and her joy touched my heart. To say it like the cool people, “she was busting a move.” We were singing one of those joyful hymns of the church. The girl had caught the spirit. She was not holding anything back.

Her joy was not going to be quashed by dignity.

Dignity. I don’t know where it came from, but it seems that worship has been taken over by dignity. Many congregations fear undignified behavior in church. It is no wonder, we are aptly criticized as being the “frozen chosen.” What would happen, if in your place of worship, you traded dignity for joy?

Maybe you would feel better, before, after, and during a worship service if you caught the infectious joy that comes with following Jesus.

The Logansport Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for another successful Christmas season. This year’s Logansport Christmas Festival is slated for Saturday, November 18. The theme this season is “A Small Town Christmas.”

The Miss Logansport 2023 pageant will be held Saturday, November 11 at Logansport High School. Girls 0-24 years of age may participate. New news: $100 scholarship for Teen Miss Logansport and a $300 Scholarship for Miss Collegiate Logansport. Huge crowns and wonderful prizes! 

Volunteers are needed to help with decorating the park and the town. If you are interested, please contact Cynthia Hendrickson or Tracy Armstrong.

VENDORS:
The deadline is Nov. 1 for mail-in applications and Nov. 10 for all others and payments!
Send completed applications to logansportchristmasfestival@gmail.com or drop off at The Crawfish Shack in Logansport, LA.
Mail to:
Logansport Christmas Festival
Vendor Applications
P.O. Box # 162
Logansport, LA 71049
Message Tracy Armstrong via email to logansportchristmasfestival@gmail.com if you have any questions!

Pageant, Parade and Vendor paperwork may be picked up from the Crawfish Shack at 302 Elm Street in Logansport. Vendor paperwork may also be picked up from the Logansport Library and the Town Hall office.

All paperwork is be also available on the Logansport Christmas Festival Facebook page.

By: Caitlyn Graham

The Junior/Senior Fall Fest was a great success. Seniors from the Mansfield Nursing Center and children from the elementary school attended the event at the Mansfield library. Everyone cooperated and had a good time.

The kids played several games while the seniors watched and cheered the players. Firemen came to the
event to support the participants. Mrs. Spencer played music from the ’60s and ’70s, and two generations danced and enjoyed each other company. This event brought people together and allowed two generations to learn more about each other. Despite a significant age gap, the two groups had fun together.

Mary Maxine Evans Lynch, 85, of DeSoto Parish, Louisiana entered into eternal rest on November 3, 2023, in Shreveport, Louisiana. Maxine was born on November 11, 1937, in Mansfield, Louisiana to Floyd Johnston Evans and Berta Thurman Evans.

A visitation was held on Sunday, November 5, 2023, located at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive in Shreveport. Funeral services honoring the life of Maxine were held Monday, November 6, 2023, at the funeral home. Officiating the service will be Pastor Dean Register. Interment will be held at Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery, 322 Church Road in Keatchie, Louisiana. Honoring Maxine as pallbearers will be Ronnie Lee, John Whitaker, Britlyn Garrett, Madelyn Garrett, Donnie Lee, and Don Brown.

Maxine graduated from Longstreet High School in May of 1955. She married her high school sweetheart C.R. (Steve) Lynch on June 29, 1955. They were married for 68 wonderful years. Maxine was employed with Willis-Knighton Health System for over 30 years. She retired as Hospital Administrator at Willis-Knighton South. Maxine loved going to her camp and spending time with her “granddaughters”, Britlyn and Madelyn Garrett. In her free time, she enjoyed raking leaves, planting, working in her yard, driving her tractor, feeding fish in the pond at the camp, taking trips to the casinos, and playing with her little dog, Lucy.

Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Berta Evans; her brothers, Robert Evans and Wayne Evans; her sister, Charlotte Evans Wash; and her son, Clifford Scott Lynch. Left to cherish her memory include her husband, Charles Ray (Steve) Lynch; her son, Steven Ray Lynch; her daughter, Shelley Lynch Jackson and husband Collin Lane Jackson; her brother, Curtis Evans and wife Beverly (LuLu); her special niece, Jerri Lynn Garrett; her Russian girl, Victoria Borovikova; her son Scott’s best friend, John Whitaker; numerous nieces and nephews, and to the many people that dedicated their support, love, and time.

The family would like to express a heartfelt thank you to Willis-Knighton South for all the wonderful care and love they provided to Maxine.