The attached report displays all individuals booked into the DeSoto Detention Center between the dates of Dec. 9-15 and includes arrests made by DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO), Mansfield Police Department (MPD), and Louisiana State Police (LSP.) All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Booking photos for each, unless they have bonded out.
Two missing teenage girls were safely located thanks to the exceptional efforts of K-9 officer Cholo, his handler Deputy Hunter Martinez, and a dedicated team of deputies. Cholo led the search team directly to the girls’ location, playing a critical role in ensuring their safe return.
The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office and the many DeSoto residents who contributed to the search efforts. Community members supported the mission both on the ground and through social media, demonstrating a united effort to bring the girls home.
“All-in-all, a great effort by everyone involved,” said the Sheriff’s Office, highlighting the teamwork and commitment that made this outcome possible.
DOTD advises motorists that the below road closure on LA 3015 in DeSoto Parish has been postponed and will be rescheduled at a later date. DOTD will issue an update when that date has been finalized.
Original notification:
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that beginning on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 7:00 a.m., LA 3015 at the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad crossing at the intersection with LA 175 in DeSoto Parish will be closed.
This road closure is scheduled to be in place until Thursday, December 19, 2024 at 6:00 p.m., and is necessary to allow the railroad company to perform maintenance to the tracks. Inclement weather may require this work to be rescheduled.
This crossing is located approximately 6.62 miles east of US 171 Grand Cane.
Restrictions/Permits: Total road closure at the specified location. All vehicles will need to utilize an alternate route.
Alternate Route: Detour signage will be in place.
This work will be performed WEATHER PERMITTING.
Safety reminder:
DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment. Remember to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.
DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson recognized Patrol Deputy Kristopher Lindsey (left) and Patrol Deputy Micah Latin (right) on Dec. 12 for their exceptional service in responding to an unconscious male, not breathing, within just the last few days. Dy. Lindsey and Dy. Latin responded without hesitation, performing life-saving techniques including proper usage of AED and CPR until EMS arrived to take over the scene.
One paramedic with 22 years of experience remarked, “It was the best use of CPR I have ever witnessed from Law Enforcement. Both deputies provided a clear and concise report of the patients condition and all measures they had taken prior to our arrival. These deputies gave the subject the best possible change for resuscitation before EMS was able to take over. Their actions were instrumental in this critical situation, demonstrating exceptional skill, professionalism, and dedication far beyond their duties.”
By Steve Graf
Today I come to you with concerns about the state of mind of so many Americans due to our recent Presidential election results and other issues. Over my 63 years of being on this earth, I’ve never seen an election carry so much weight in terms of how Americans have reacted, or should I say overreacted. I’m not here to say that your reaction was right or wrong, but rather to suggest how you might possibly move forward in life and maintain your mental wellness.
Athletes are taught very early in our careers how to a big win or a disappointing loss. My coaches always said that you have 24 hours to celebrate a victory or a loss. Then you must move forward and prepare for the next game. Don’t dwell on the loss of a game you can no longer play.
Another saying I’ve heard over the years, “Once the hay is in the barn, it’s time to move on to the next chore.” Well today many Americans need to move on to the next chore and exercise their right to either celebrate or stew in their loss, but only for 24 hours. Sometimes we must accept things we can no longer change or control. The first step to moving forward is accepting the results.
Whether it’s a game, an election, or in my case a bass tournament, no matter if it was a victory or a loss, I must move on and get ready for my next tournament. Sure, I’ll evaluate what maybe went wrong or how I made a bad decision on tournament day and then I’ll do my best to NOT make the same mistake moving forward.
Nothing is more important than our mental health, as it can affect not only our own personal wellness, but those around us daily. How we handle defeat or victory can impact our family and friends in a negative or positive way. It’s all about how you as an individual recognize the situation and choose to move on. But it is a choice!
Years ago, a former boss of mine gave me some great advice on how to handle “butt chewings” from the man who was the CEO of the company I worked for. This CEO was a former marine and could peel the paint off the wall once he got bent out of shape on a particular issue. He told me that you can’t control what he says to you, but you can control how you receive it.
This resonated with me, and even though I only had a couple of chewings from this CEO over my 14 years of working with him, it made a huge difference on how I reacted to him. I think my athletic background played a huge roll in how I handled any blunt critiques because a few of my coaches were famous for their hard style of coaching.
So many kids today that play athletics, don’t or can’t handle hard coaching. Kids have gotten soft in the last twenty years and take criticism personally and will often choose to walk away from the team even though the coach is only trying to make them a better player. They think the coach doesn’t like them and would rather quit the sport rather than be coached.
We, as a society and parents, need to get back to tough love with our kids and do a better job of preparing them for life’s challenges. Stop teaching them to quit just because an election, a game, or their job didn’t go the way they wanted. Teach that everybody does not get a trophy! Instead, teach them how to handle and overcome a loss, a tough coach or maybe a hot-headed boss. Teach them that you don’t play the game for the coach, you play because you love the game!
All the above has been on my heart recently now that I’ve seen how distraught some people are after the recent Presidential election. People have literally lost their minds over something they have very little control over other than a single vote. Here’s some food for thought…. no matter who is the sitting President of the United States, when we wake up tomorrow, we will still go about our daily lives and routines the same way we have for years.
While we might not ALL agree on certain polices or who is running our country, one thing is for certain; trials and tribulations are headed our way and it’s up to us as Americans on how we handle them. Tonight, when you lay down for a peaceful night’s rest, just remember, everything is going to be ok. May God bless each of you and this great nation we live in, he owes us this because we have never turned our back on him. Ha!
Looking for a rewarding career in commercial construction?
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Description:
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D’ARGENT CONSTRUCTION, THE LEADING COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION COMPANY IN CENLA.
Heith Parker, the DeSoto Parish School District’s beloved Director of Facilities and Operations, recently passed away. His decades of service to the school system and dedication and service to the students and staff will forever be cherished.
Parker began his journey with DeSoto Parish Schools in 1998-1999 as an Adult Education teacher and coach at North DeSoto High School, where he contributed to the football and baseball programs. His passion for education and mentorship was evident as he transitioned to teaching Physical Education at North DeSoto Elementary and Middle School from 1999 to 2007 while continuing his role as a football coach.
In 2007, Parker’s commitment to excellence led him to serve as Assistant Principal at North DeSoto Elementary (Grades 3-5), where he spent six impactful years fostering a culture of learning and leadership. In 2013, he was elevated to a district-level role as Supervisor of Maintenance, later becoming Director of Facilities and Operations. Over the last decade, his expertise and vision ensured schools’ safety, efficiency, and growth, leaving a legacy of excellence in every project he led.
A proud graduate of Stanley High School, Parker pursued higher education earning a Bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University Shreveport and a Master’s in Supervision and Administration from Northwestern State University. His academic and professional achievements reflected his commitment to lifelong learning and leadership.
Beyond his professional contributions, Parker was a devoted husband to his wife, Barbara, a loving father to Stephanie and Madison, and a proud grandfather to Beckett, who brought him immense joy.
Parker’s legacy is one of compassion, leadership, and dedication. He was a cornerstone of DeSoto Parish Schools, touching countless lives and leaving an indelible mark on the community. While his presence will be deeply missed, the values he embodied and the impact he made will continue to make a difference in DeSoto Parish Schools.
Each year on December 18, Answer the Phone Like Buddy the Elf Day encourages fans of the hit movie Elf to embrace their inner Buddy with his signature greeting: “Buddy the Elf, what’s your favorite color?” This playful tradition brings laughter and festive cheer to the holiday season.
Modern holiday films like Elf have sparked quirky traditions that add a sense of joy to December. From dressing up as Buddy to organizing themed watch parties, these activities remind us to embrace the magic and silliness of the season.
So, pick up the phone, channel Buddy, and let the holiday spirit ring through your words—it’s a simple way to spread joy.
By Brad Dison
Most fathers would do just about anything to protect their daughters from harm, criticism, and unhappiness. Margaret’s father was no different. In December 1950, Margaret, a soprano singer, performed at the famous Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee to crowds who were enthusiastic about her “winning manner, discriminating selection of music, and naturalness.” She had had many successes in concert and solo roles with several orchestras. On this particular night, Margaret was accompanied by Herman Allison on piano. When the curtain rose, Margaret greeted the large, cheering crowd wearing a concert dress of sari material, billowy material woven of gold and silver threads, which had been a gift from the wife of the Prime Minister of Pakistan.” One critic reported that she won over the audience “before she sang a note.” During her performance, she sang such difficult selections as “The Nightingale” by Schubert, “The Nut Tree,” by Schumann, and an aria from “Le Nozze de Figaro.” So enthused was the audience that night that Margaret performed two encores.
While many other critics wrote positive reviews, 34-year-old Paul Hume, music editor for The Washington Post, was less than impressed. Hume wrote that Margaret “cannot sing very well” and “is flat a good deal of the time.” “There are a few moments during her recital,” he wrote, “when one can relax and feel confident that she will maker her goal, which is the end of the song… It is an extremely unpleasant duty to record such unhappy facts about so honestly appealing a personality. But as long as [Margaret] sings as she has for three years, and does today, we seem to have no recourse unless it is to omit comment on her programs altogether.” It was a biting review.
In response, Margaret said that she had not had time to read the review but he, Paul Hume, “has a perfect right to say whatever he thinks.” She had received other negative reviews from critics in the past, but concert hall, radio, and television audiences adored her. Despite the critics, people flocked to see her perform. Margaret brushed off the negative review. Margaret’s father, however, was enraged by Hume’s review. He wrote a scathing letter to Hume in which he said, “I have just read your lousy review buried in the back pages. You sound like a frustrated old man who never made a success, an eight-ulcer man on a four-ulcer job, and all four ulcers working.” Margaret’s father’s anger grew as he continued to write. “I never met you but if I do, you’ll need a new nose and plenty of beefsteak and perhaps a supporter below.” In the letter, Margaret’s father threatened to “beat [him] up, from top to bottom.” On the following day, newspapers reprinted parts of Margaret’s father’s letter. At first, Margaret was surprised and did not believe her father wrote the scathing letter. When she learned that her father had written the letter, she told the press that she had “no comment to make.” Margaret’s father explained that he had written the letter out of love for his daughter.
On March 27, 2002, more than five decades later, Margaret’s father’s letter to Paul Hume was auctioned by the world-famous Christie’s Auction House. The letter sold for $193,000. You see, Margaret’s father wrote the letter on White House stationery. Margaret’s father was President Harry Truman.
Sources:
1. “Truman, Harry. Autograph letter signed (H.S.T.” to Paul Hume, Music Critic of the Washington Post, D.C., 6 December 1950,” Christies.com, https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-3886900.
2. The Tennessean (Nashville, Tennessee), December 9, 1950, p.1.
3. St. Louis Post-Dispatch, December 24, 1950, p.13.
Bailey is a 2-year-old Staffordshire Terrier mix overflowing with love, energy, and charm! This affectionate cuddle bug loves belly rubs, zoomies, and playing fetch.
She’s gentle with kids, great with dogs her size, and has not yet been tested with small dogs or cats. Spayed, vaccinated, and eager for her forever family, Bailey is ready to bring joy to your home.
For more information contact DeSoto Parish Animal Control at (318) 871-2900, located at 404 Liberty Ln. in Grand Cane. Desoto Parish Animal Shelters is a non-profit shelter and thanks the public for its support.
Mallory is my daughter-in-law. She was here this last weekend. There was a
shopping adventure on Saturday and that evening she was wrapped the presents.
Mallory is one of “those” gift wrappers. I stood and watched her wrap gifts. With
engineering precision, she made one cut of the wrapping paper. The ends of the gifts
wrapped were perfect. She used a minimum amount of tape. She did it with the skill of a
neurosurgeon and the speed of a NASCAR pit crew member. I gave up attempts at gift
wrapping decades ago. A gift bag is a blessing for people like me.
Mallory was so peaceful as she was wrapping at the speed of light.
This time of year, requires speed. Everyone promises it to us. The Postal
Service, UPS, and FedEx promise they are the speediest. I’m waiting for one of them to
promise overnight delivery on Christmas Eve. Although I think St. Nick and the Elf union
would fight that infringement on their gig. Amazon has amazing speed, but you pay for
it. Their free delivery takes from 3-5 business days, or you can opt for their expensive
express delivery which will arrive in 4-6 business days. In many cases the free shipping
is quicker than the express shipping you pay for. Go figure.
Here’s the thing, I’m wondering if we should be working on our “slowing skills.”
I lived in Natchitoches for ten years. I loved the Christmas lights! At the
residential end of the Church Street bridge there is a sign that says Merry Christmas
and Happy New Year. The challenge is that the traffic lights are directly in front of the
sign. So, if you are a visitor to that city and you don’t know that secret, you often are
challenged to see and follow the traffic lights.
I remember one evening trying to hurry home across the Church Street bridge.
In front of me was a van from the state of Hittite. (Don’t want to tell you the state
lest I offend.) This van was driving 2 miles an hour over the bridge at 5:30 p.m. These
out-of-state guests were looking at the wonderful light display on the other side of the
river. This nice van driver speeding at two miles an hour looking at the lights was not
looking at the road. Twice the van hit the curb on the Church Street Bridge. That is no
small curb. They didn’t seem too bothered by their dual collisions with the curb. At the
end of the road, they stopped at the green light. They met the big sign hiding the traffic
lights. I waited patiently for as long as I could stand it, then I sent them an audible
automotive suggestion that they complete their right turn.
Paul wrote, “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a
woman, born under the law.” I wonder how long it took for time to fully come? Christmas
day is getting ever closer.
Maybe we would be more faithful witnesses to our faith if we learned some
slowing skills. Be patient with people in the parking lot, the check-out line, over worked
wait staff in the diner, and those you love who are also caught in the Christmas speed
trap. Be patient with those who are having their first Christmas without loved ones or
without their children being home. Practice patience with those who are not moving at
the same Christmas speed.
Learn “slowing skills” and wait, Christmas always arrives on time.
Authorities are conducting an active manhunt near I-49, just south of Highway 84 and close to LA 510, following a traffic stop where the suspect fled on foot.
The suspect, identified as Demontay Watkins, a 25-year-old Black male from Tangipahoa Parish, is described as shoeless, wearing black jeans, and initially seen in an orange hoodie, which he may have discarded. Watkins is a wanted fugitive from another parish and is considered armed and dangerous.
Local residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any sightings. Those with deer cameras in the area are encouraged to check for potential footage of the suspect. Drivers in the vicinity are advised to exercise caution, as law enforcement, K9 units, and drones are actively involved in the search.
Authorities emphasize the importance of safety and request cooperation from the public as the operation continues. As of Journal publication deadline on Dec. 17, no additional updates have been provided.
Toni Taylor
November 26, 1951 — December 15, 2024
Funeral Service: Friday, December 20, 2024 Starts at 11:00 am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home 943 Polk Street, Mansfield, LA 71052
DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson recently announced another string of arrests related to the illegal distribution of dangerous narcotics in DeSoto Parish. This is part of an ongoing effort between DeSoto Sheriff Narcotics Agents, DeSoto SWAT, Street Level Interdiction Unit (SLIU) and DeSoto K-9 unit. The following arrests include individuals suspected mostly of Possession or Distribution of Meth and/or Crack Cocaine, among other charges related to each incident. All have been booked into the DeSoto Detention Center. All suspects are to be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
On 11/20/24, Alexandra N. Revell (35yo White Female of Lafayette, LA) was taken into custody by the DeSoto Sheriff SLIU on charges of Possession of Schedule II (Meth), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Open Container, and No License Plate Light.
On 11/28/24, Ishmael L. Rhodes (29yo Black Male of Shreveport, LA) was taken into custody by the DeSoto Sheriff SLIU on charges of Possession of Schedule II (Meth), Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Expired Registration.
On 11/29/24, Donny R. Milligan (66yo Black Male of Mansfield, LA) was taken into custody by the DeSoto Sheriff SLIU on charges of Possession of Schedule II (Crack Cocaine), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Fugitive Arrest Warrant (MPD), and Proper Equipment Required on Vehicle.
On 11/29/24, Debra S. Green (52yo Black Female of Mansfield, LA) was taken into custody by DeSoto Sheriff SLIU on charges of Possession of Schedule II (Crack Cocaine) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
On 11/29/24, Michael L. Patton (63yo Black Male of Mansfield, LA) was taken into custody by DeSoto Sheriff SLIU on charges of Possession of Schedule II (Crack Cocaine) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
On 11/29/24, Jeffrey L. McFerren (26yo White Male of Keatchie, LA) was taken into custody by DeSoto Sheriff SLIU on charges of Possession of Schedule II (Meth) and Possession of Marijuana.
On 12/02/24, Willie J. Claiborne (56yo Black Male of Mansfield, LA) was taken into custody by DeSoto Sheriff Narcotics Agents on charges of Possession of Schedule II (Crack Cocaine), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Improper Lane Usage, and Second or Subsequent Offense.
On 12/03/24, William S. Anderson (54yo White Male of Many, LA) was taken into custody by DeSoto Sheriff Narcotics Agents on charges of Possession of Schedule II (Meth), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Turn Signal Required, and Expired Tags.
The attached report displays all individuals booked into the DeSoto Detention Center between the dates of Dec. 2-8 (1 week) and includes arrests made by DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO), Mansfield Police Department (MPD), and Louisiana State Police (LSP.) All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Booking photos for each, unless they have bonded out.
I have reached the age and station of life, where Christmas decorations should
be guided by minimalist philosophy. There should be a small tree on the mantle and
maybe one elf on one shelf. At this stage, Christmas should fit into one oversized shoe
box. I have been told that I have a Grinch-like view of Christmas decorations.
Speaking of the Grinch, I have been type-cast. I will be in two Christmas parades
this year. If you are at the Gibsland parade, I’ll be on the Gibsland Bank float as the
Grinch. In Ruston, I’ll be on the Trinity Methodist Church as the Grinch. I will be the
happy Grinch with the heart enlarged three times!
Did I tell you that I danced eighteen shows with the Lake Charles Ballet as Santa
Claus. I have played that role at least three times. I’m picking up on a theme, people
keep putting me in costumes that require extensive make up.
Back to our subject of Christmas decorations.
Do you have items that are always present in your Christmas decorations? Do
these items have stories attached to them? In some households Christmas decorating
takes a while because the decorator narrates the story of each ornament or decoration.
I think I appreciate those stories more now than I once did.
One of the items in our household are the baby gates. For years we have used
those gates in the doorway of the room that holds the tree. We have no babies in our
family. Our grandchildren are older now. We use the baby gates because we have
curious and helpful dogs. The dogs have often seen the Christmas tree and the
presents under it as a source of entertainment. The two now living in the house are
proficient at Christmas curiosity and have a history of undecorating and unwrapping
presents.
The baby gates minimize the canine caused chaos.
Those gates remind me of an important truth. Christmas is not about order and
perfection, it is about mess and chaos. Think about the story.
The orderly life of the engage couple was thrown into chaos. The emperor issued
travel mandates. The child was born in a most rustic place. Mom and baby were
disturbed by shepherds and their nocturnal visit. Trust me, the sheep were in tow! Herod
got involved in the story in a horrible way. Joseph and Mary became immigrants and for
a time outcasts.
Christmas is for people who are not perfect, who do not have it together, who are
stymied in their planning.
Christmas is a time that reminds us that God can bring order out of chaos. He
can bring life and love in surprising ways. He can see a path for you when you can’t
claim it for yourself. He meets sin and failure with his love and grace.
That love and grace is often his way of throwing a baby gate around your heart.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and Governor Jeff Landry announced in a press conference on Dec. 9, a conservation partnership between LDWF and Healing Road Foundation to support black bear conservation and military veterans in the Sportsman’s Paradise. Through this partnership agreement, the Healing Road Foundation was able to raffle a Louisiana black bear harvest permit for the 2024 season to a Louisiana military veteran.
The Healing Road Foundation is a veteran-founded and managed organization dedicated to providing life-changing outdoor experiences to wounded veterans, survivors and their children to help reconnect families and lead them on a path to rehabilitation and healing. Through partnering with the Healing Road Foundation, LDWF is able to give back to those who have served our country and advance black bear management efforts to provide more hunting opportunities to sportsmen of Louisiana.
Louisiana is currently holding its first black bear hunt in more than 35 years after recovery of the species in 2016. The season, in which 10 hunting permits have been distributed, will conclude Dec. 22 in Bear Management Area 4, which includes Tensas, Madison, East Carroll and West Carroll parishes and portions of Richland, Franklin, and Catahoula parishes.
“Today is another huge win for Louisiana’s hunters, sportsmen, conservationists, and veterans. Louisiana has a proven track record when it comes to species conservation! Thank you to Secretary Madison Sheahan and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, as well as the Healing Road Foundation, for your hard work in making this Louisiana hunting tradition a reality again,” said Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry.
“Being able to hunt in the Sportsman’s Paradise is a freedom we can only enjoy because of those who have served and sacrificed for our country,” said LDWF Secretary Madison Sheahan. “It is an honor and privilege to partner with the Healing Road Foundation to provide this exciting hunting opportunity to not just a sportsman in Louisiana, but a military veteran who has served our country with pride.”
“Healing Road Foundation is proud to be a partner with the LDWF in the Louisiana Black Bear conservation program,’’ the Foundation said. “It is at the heart of our core mission of providing life-changing outdoor experiences for wounded veterans, survivors, and their children. We strive to be a national leader in relationship rehabilitation and healing for wounded veterans and their families through experiencing nature and its conservation for future generations of Americans.’’
LDWF would like to thank Louisiana State Representative Neil Riser, R-Columbia, for a provision in his legislation on black bear conservation last spring which allowed LDWF to conduct a search for a partner like Healing Road Foundation.
All black bear lottery fees and license revenue, including that of the auctioned permit, will be reinvested directly into the Louisiana Black Bear Program. These funds will assist LDWF biologists in continuing to conduct bear management operations such as annual live trapping and radio-collaring of bears, winter den checks to monitor reproductive rates, and non-invasive hair sampling to monitor range expansion.
The Louisiana black bear is one of the state’s most recent conservation success stories. The animal was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1992. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of many stakeholders to monitor black bear population numbers, restore habitat and protect the bear for the long term, it was removed from the list in 2016.
For more information on Healing Road Foundation, go to thehealingroad.org/. For more information on the management of the Louisiana black bear, go to youtube.com/watch?v=OB_oXGkwDUA. For more information on the Louisiana black bear, go to wlf.louisiana.gov/subhome/louisiana-black-bear. And for more information on the black bear hunting lottery, go to wlf.louisiana.gov/page/black-bear-hunting-lottery.
By Steve Graf
Nothing is more exciting than the day a bass fisherman buys his first bass boat! For me, that was 1990 when I bought a new Pro Gator from Cary’s, a dealer in Ville Platte, Louisiana. It was an 18-foot boat with a 150 Yamaha and was loaded with the best electronics money could buy, for a boat at that time. But if you own a bass boat, then you know first-hand all the trials and tribulations that come with being a boat owner.
At the time of my purchase, I was working for an apparel company by the name of Holloway Sportswear. They were an outerwear/jacket manufacturer based out of Ohio. They had 6 cutting and sewing factories in Louisiana, one of which was in Ville Platte where I was plant manager at the time of my boat purchase.
I was one happy camper the day I picked up my new Pro Gator bass boat! It had all the bells and whistles that I could want. Being the plant manager at this facility meant I had to spend a couple of nights a week in the apartment located inside the Holloway factory.
But just outside of Ville Platte was Chicot Lake, loaded with good quality bass that anglers crave. So, one day after work and with plenty of daylight left, I decided to take my new boat to Chicot Lake and give it a good test run.
I was so impressed with this boat and how it handled. It was great for bass fishing. After catching a few bass, I decided to head back to the boat ramp about an hour after dark.
Once I returned to the dock at the ramp, I tied off my boat and went to back my truck in the water so I could load my boat. Funny thing about owning a boat… sometimes things happen that defy explanation.
Well after backing my boat trailer down the ramp, I put the truck in park and walked back down the dock to get the boat, only the boat was not there! Looking around I noticed the boat had floated away from the dock about fifty yards. All I could see were the running lights in the pitch-black darkness! Yet there it was floating all alone like a lost puppy waiting for me to save the day and bring it back.
Now, one thing that I remembered as I left the dock to go fishing earlier that afternoon was that there were several alligators sunning on the shore of the bayou that my boat was now floating in. So, after a lot of thought and consideration as to what my options were, I decided the only way to get the boat back was to swim to it.
So, I took off my shirt and shoes and laid my wallet on the dock. I got a good running start and sprinted down the dock and dove into the lake headfirst… (which looking back was probably not a very good idea as I could have landed on a stump and suffered a catastrophic injury; but the good Lord above was watching out for me.)
Those of you old enough might remember the Olympic gold medal swimmer, Mark Spitz. He won a record seven gold medals in the 1972 Olympics. But that night, not even Mark Spitz could have out swum me as I had visions of alligators chasing me! Nor has anyone ever leaped into a boat quicker than I did that night.
So, what’s the lesson I learned that night? Always make sure you tie a good knot anytime you’re leaving your boat by the dock. There’s nothing like owning your first bass boat even when it means you have to risk your life swimming with gators!
Till next time, good luck, good fishing, and make sure to introduce a kid to the great outdoors. Kids that hunt and fish, don’t deal and steal.
Blitz is a 2-year-old snuggle bug and Terrier/Staffordshire mix with a heart as big as his smile. He’s neutered, heartworm negative, and ready to fill your life with love. Kid and dog-friendly, Blitz has the sweetest personality and is as laid-back as they come.
Come meet this amazing guy and give her the forever home she’s been waiting for.
For more information contact DeSoto Parish Animal Control at (318) 871-2900, located at 404 Liberty Ln. in Grand Cane. Desoto Parish Animal Shelters is a non-profit shelter and thanks the public for its support.
D.A.R.E. Officers with the Shreveport Police Department, the Caddo and Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Offices, and the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office gathered at Target for the annual “Shop With a Cop” event on Dec. 4.
The Northwestern Louisiana DARE Officers Association allows for 10 kids to come in and spend $200 each on anything their hearts desire.
Their aim is seeking out families who may be experiencing less fortunate circumstances during the Christmas season.
By Brad Dison
In 1917, the world was in the midst of World War I. Corporal J. Robert Conroy was among the soldiers of the 102nd infantry, 26th division, known as the “Yankee Division,” camped at Yale Field in New Haven, Connecticut. While enjoying his rations one day, he noticed that a homeless boy had wandered into camp. Other soldiers turned to look then returned to their duty. Corporal Conroy shared his meager rations and their friendship began. Even though one was a soldier and the other was not, they were almost inseparable. Pretty soon, most of the soldiers of the 102nd infantry had befriended him. Then, Corporal Conroy learned that his division would be shipping out soon to France. Corporal Conroy was concerned about the wellbeing of his new friend and led a small conspiracy which was so secretive that most of the details of it remain a mystery. What we know for certain is that when the USS Minnesota left for France, Corporal Conroy’s friend was a stowaway.
For some time, the conspirators kept the stowaway a secret. Each saved small portions from their meals to give the stowaway, but the top brass learned about the scheme. The conspirators and the stowaway could have been sent to the brig to await punishment, but the United States needed all the soldiers it could get. They fitted the stowaway with a uniform and other necessary accoutrements, and the stowaway became a private. As soon as they arrived in France, the 102nd infantry left for the front. No one knew what to expect from the private. Unlike all of the other soldiers around him, the private had no training. Would he fight or run? The soldiers of the 102nd infantry taught him what little they could along the way. By the time they got to the trenches, the private had befriended just about every soldier in the whole division. Remember, just a few weeks earlier, he was homeless and had to beg for food.
Like the other soldiers of the 102nd infantry, the private was stunned by the explosions and endless gunfire, but he proved to be a brave soldier during each fight. On April 20, 1918, the 102nd infantry fought the Germans at the town of Seicheprey, France. During the battle, the Germans captured the town, but the 102nd infantry counter-attacked that night. The Germans were forced to retreat, but at a terrible price. During the counterattack, many soldiers were wounded or killed. Among the wounded was the private who was struck in the chest by a piece of shrapnel from an enemy hand grenade. Everyone, including the Army surgeons, thought the wound was fatal. Morale in the 102nd infantry hit rock bottom. Six weeks later, their morale rebounded when the private returned to his outfit. By the time the war ended, the private had served in 17 battles and had earned many medals for bravery including the Victory Medal with cross bars indicating his participation in major engagements and the Silver Victory Button for being wounded. Back home, the private became a celebrity. He was featured in parades across the country. He met with Presidents Woodrow Wilson, Calvin Coolidge, and Warren G. Harding. In July 1921, General John J. Pershing, commander-in-chief of the American forces in Europe during the war, awarded the private with a solid gold medal with his name engraved on it. The once homeless boy who unintentionally became a private and the “Hero of the Yankee Division,” was a bull terrier, a dog named “Stubby.”
Sources:
1. The Indianapolis News, July 9, 1921, p.5.
2. The World News (Roanoke, Virginia), July 12, 1921, p.4.
3. The Chattanooga News, October 20, 1923, p.14.
4. The Commercial Appeal (Memphis, Tennessee), March 28, 1926, p.8.
As the holidays approach, Green Monday, observed on the second Monday of December, promotes sustainable shopping practices during the busiest retail season. Coined in 2007, Green Monday marks one of the biggest online shopping days of the year, and it’s an opportunity to rethink holiday gifting.
To embrace eco-friendly shopping, consider buying locally-made products to reduce your carbon footprint or opting for gifts crafted from recycled materials. Experiences, such as concert tickets or a cooking class, are thoughtful alternatives that don’t generate waste. Another tip is to wrap presents using reusable materials like fabric or biodegradable paper.
Green Monday reminds us that our purchasing choices can impact the planet. By prioritizing sustainable practices, we can celebrate the season while protecting the environment for future generations.
Max Edward Simpson
July 27, 1944 — December 8, 2024
Memorial Service: Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Allen Cemetery
Loretta “Jean” Harris
April 28, 1934 — December 8, 2024
Graveside Service: Thursday, December 12, 2024 Starts at 2:30 p.m. at Highland Cemetery
Janet Tumbleson Pharris
December 24, 1962 — December 7, 2024
Funeral Service: Thursday, December 12, 2024 Starts at 11:00 a.m. at Rose Neath Funeral Homes
Bearl “Red” Jones Lafitte
February 2, 1935 — December 9, 2024
Graveside Service: Friday, December 13, 2024 Starts at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery
Milken Educator Awards Founder Lowell Milken delivered Charday Wilson, a Logansport High School math and science master teacher, the surprise of a lifetime. The LHS alumna walked up to accept the prestigious honor as everything started to crystalize: The assembly with State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley was in her honor.
“Charday Wilson is a strong instructional leader, caring mentor, and dedicated member of her community,” said Lowell Milken. “As a product of Logansport High School, Charday understands the school’s goals and needs intrinsically and works with students and staff every step of the away to meet them. I look forward to the useful contributions she will bring to the national Milken Educator Award Network.”
Wilson’s return to Logansport, where she was born and raised, has been nothing short of inspirational. An LHS student herself, she advanced to become a successful collegiate athlete and first-generation college graduate. Now Wilson works tirelessly to coach teachers, educate students, and contribute overall to shaping Logansport’s positive academic landscape. She was surprised with her unrestricted $25,000 Milken Educator Award in front of cheering students, colleagues, dignitaries and media: the very community that raised her.
“A foundation of any successful education system is its teachers. Today, we honor Charday Wilson who has gone above and beyond, setting the standard for excellence in her schools,” said State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley. “Her commitment to empowering fellow educators across the district has sparked growth and collaboration that has benefited the entire parish.”
Hailed as the “Oscars of Teaching,” the Milken Educator Awards inspire educators, students and entire communities to “Celebrate, Elevate and Activate” the K-12 teaching profession and encourage young, capable people to pursue teaching as a career. By the end of this season, more than $75 million in individual financial prizes and more than $145 million will have been invested in the Milken Educator Award national network overall.
Outstanding educators like Wilson are not aware of their candidacy for the Award. Recipients are sought out while early- to mid-career for what they have achieved — and for the promise of what they will accomplish given the resources and opportunities afforded by the Award.
Wilson is the third and final Milken Educator to receive the honor in Louisiana for the 2024-2025 school year and the 53rd recipient in the Pelican State. Kyle Cook of Maplewood Middle School in Calcasieu Parish received his Award earlier this morning, Dec. 5, and Ashley Davis of Central Intermediate School in the Central Community School System was recognized with the Award yesterday, Dec. 4.
The $25,000 cash Award is unrestricted. Recipients have used the money in diverse ways. Some recipients have spent the funds on their children’s or their own continuing education, financing dream field trips, establishing scholarships, and even adopting children.
Honorees receive powerful mentorship opportunities for expanded leadership roles that strengthen education practice and policy. Milken Friends Forever (MFF) pairs a new recipient with a veteran Milken Educator mentor; the Expanding MFF Resource and Explorer Program fosters individual veteran Milken Educator partnerships around specific topic areas; and Activating Milken Educators promotes group collaboration in and across states to bring solutions to pressing educational needs.
The honorees attend an all-expenses-paid Milken Educator Awards Forum in Los Angeles in April 2025, where they will network with their new colleagues as well as veteran Milken Educators and other education leaders about how to broaden their impact on K-12 education.
Veteran Milken Educators demonstrate a wide range of leadership roles at state, national and international levels.
Visit MilkenEducatorAwards.org or call the Milken Family Foundation at (310) 570-4772 for more information.
The attached report displays all individuals booked into the DeSoto Detention Center between the dates of NOV. 25 – DEC. 01 (1 week) and includes arrests made by DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO), Mansfield Police Department (MPD), and Louisiana State Police (LSP.) All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Booking photos for each, unless they have bonded out.