By Steve Graf    

So much of our life is unpredictable even though we think we have a game plan. We are constantly making plans for the future even with so many variables out of our control. We’ve all heard how we as humans are truly creatures of habit. But sometimes life takes us down a path we weren’t expecting. It may be a road that if we had a choice, we might not have traveled.

Let’s look at my years of tournament fishing. As a former athlete who has played all levels of baseball and football, my competitive fire still burns strong. I not only want to win, I also want to kick your butt in the process.

But as I’ve written before, tournament bass fishing is a very humbling sport. I think the only sport comparable would be golf. Just when you think you’re “the man ” bass fishing reels you in and makes you realize that you have no idea what you’re doing!

For me personally, as I continue to pursue championship stringers, even at the age of 64, tournament fishing still gets my blood flowing. Competing against so many of today’s younger anglers just motivates me even more and keeps me feeling young.

I used to lose sleep over my performance in previous tournaments. Like a lot of anglers, I self-analyze every tournament and try to learn from my small victories on the water to my biggest mistakes.

But a turning point in my bass tournament perspective came when I was diagnosed with stage 3 Melanoma in June of 2023. Everything changed after my dermatologist called to let me know my biopsy was positive. Next thing I knew, I was sitting in the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston with the finest doctors in the world, putting together a plan of attack with immunotherapy that would hopefully cure my cancer.

It was at this point that my outlook on winning bass tournaments changed dramatically. After several treatments and numerous PET scans and MRIs over the last two years, my cancer has disappeared and hopefully will stay away.

Today when I show up for a tournament, I’m so happy that I can continue to participate in the sport I love. I’m probably more excited today to fish an event because I realize my battle with Melanoma could have been a lot worse. While I’ll continue to go through more blood work, PET scans and MRIs the rest of my life, I’m so thankful to be able to experience life to the fullest.

My cancer scare has been a reminder of how precious life really is and how blessed I am to get to continue to enjoy my fishing. Several times I have shed a tear or two as the national anthem is played before we leave the boat ramp for a day of chasing those little green fish we call bass.

While all of us at some point in our lives will have health issues, sometimes it takes a life altering moment to make us realize there are things more important than winning a bass tournament. Just the fact that I get to go fishing is a true blessing and one I no longer take for granted!

Let’s not get this twisted, I’m still competitive and will continue to critique myself after each event in my desperate pursuit of championship stringers! But it’s no longer the most important part of my life and does not define who I am as a person.

Til next time, enjoy every opportunity you get to wet a hook and go fishing while spending time in God’s great outdoors.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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2025 Run Baby Run- Come for the run, stay for the fun!

For over 15 years, the Women’s Resource Center has hosted the Run Baby Run, a one mile fun
run and a 5K, to increase awareness of the Center and the services it provides. These free
services for clients include: pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, educational sessions, visits with
our client advocates, supportive services and material assistance. The mission of the WRC is to
educate and empower individuals to make life-affirming choices. The Women’s Resource Center
provided over 850 services in 2024 and is currently serving clients from ten parishes.
We are excited to announce that this year’s Run Baby Run will be held in conjunction with the
28 th Annual Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival. On May 10 th , runners, walkers and supporters will
be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Natchitoches while supporting the Center. When Jazz
Fest organizer (and WRC Supporter) Rodney Harrington was asked about this new collaboration
he said “I think it’s awesome that the Run Baby Run is going to be held the morning of the
Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival on May 10 th ! It’s going to be a spectacular day in our town. The
participants will be able to finish their run, shower and still make it down to the riverbank in time
to hear Gretchen Wilson, the BAR-KAYS and all the other great acts at the festival. See y’all
there!”

Runners, walkers and supporters of the Women’s Resource Center will gather at First Baptist
Church, located at 508 Second Street, Natchitoches before 8 AM. Runners and walkers will take
the beauty of the Historic District of Natchitoches, while enjoying the buzz and excitement the
morning before the musical entertainment takes over downtown. Information, including
registration link, can be found at https://www.wrcnatchitoches.org/events/2025-run-baby-run.
The success of the WRC is strongly based on the support of its advocates, volunteers and donors.
While some grants are received, the Center offers numerous ways to support through monetary
and material donations. From the support of volunteers to NSU special interest groups to local
churches, the Center draws its strength from supporters in all forms. The Run is one of two
fundraisers the Center hosts during the year. Our largest fundraiser will be our Annual Right to
Life Gala slated for September 18 th at the Natchitoches Event Center. Visit our website for more
details or call 318-357-8888.

Paid Content

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By Doug De Graffenried

“Brad and Sophie are, by most standards, good people. They do things as a family, and they try to keep their kids involved in various activities. They are considering trading their SUV for a minivan, something Sophie said she would never do. They try their best to have dinner as a family when the kids’ schedules permit it, and when the family dinners happen, they always hold hands around the dinner table and say, “the blessing.”

On Facebook, a recent family photo by the flowered cross at church has more than one hundred likes and dozens of comments about their beautiful family. Brad and Sophie are in their mid-thirties and go to church once every three months, because they are so busy. The extended family on Brad’s side has a beach house on the Gulf Coast and they try to get down there for the weekend whenever the weather is nice. It is also a real hassle to get the kids out the door on Sunday morning. (Miraculously, they can get everyone ready for school each morning, but nobody has ever brought that up.) When they are in town, they try hard to be at church because it means a lot to Papa and Nana, Sophie’s parents.

Papa is a third-generation member of the church and has taught in the same adult Sunday school classroom for thirty years. He sings in the choir every now and then but doesn’t like some of the new music they’ve been doing since the church hired the “new guy.” Papa serves on several committees in the church and never misses a Sunday. Nana’s entire social life revolves around the church, and she is always so thrilled to see the grandkids there so she can show them off to friends. She and the other ladies teaching Sunday school tell the girls that they changed their mom’s diaper in the nursery when she was a baby.

Church is a “good thing” in this family’s life, especially for the kids, since it is a place where they learn good moral lessons. And when they finally do make it, they admittedly feel good about themselves—and it gives the kids a chance to wear their monogrammed “church clothes.” Being seen as a family that doesn’t take the kids to church would be embarrassing for Nana, and the passive-aggressive comments at family gatherings would be unbearable. Even when they lived in a different state, Nana would ask Sophie every Monday on the phone whether she “took my grandkids to church.” It drove Sophie crazy. Now, being back in the same town, she can’t lie about their church attendance. Attending a different church than Nana and Papa’s in the same town would be worse than not attending at all.

Plus, the experience is comfortable. During the worship service, the new minister speaks for twenty minutes about loving others. Jesus is portrayed as a great example of this, since He helped the poor. The pastor doesn’t talk about sin, repentance, or the need for salvation, but the messages are inspiring.

After church, Brad, Sophie and the kids head to Nana and Papa’s for lunch, and the kids can’t wait to change into their regular clothes. Brad and Sophie have found they fight less if they occasionally give this four-hour sacrifice to Sophie’s parents, as it doesn’t seem to impact the rest of their normal day-to-day routine.”

A happy story, huh?

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State Representative Larry Bagley today announced his candidacy
for the Louisiana Public Service Commission, District 5, in the Republican primary
election scheduled for April 18, 2026. Public Service Commission District 5
encompasses 24 North Louisiana parishes, stretching from the northwest corner
of the state to the northeast.

Bagley has served as state representative for House District 7 for nearly a decade,
covering DeSoto, Sabine, and Caddo parishes. Throughout his tenure, Bagley has
become known for his ability to deliver results, cut through bureaucratic red tape,
provide a welcoming and constituent-focused legislative district office, and bring a
valuable return of tax dollars back to North Louisiana communities.

His record in the legislature includes significant achievements such as securing funding
for major infrastructure improvements, increased support for rural hospitals, securing
essential funds for local municipalities, and advocating for teachers through multiple pay
raises during his tenure.

One of Rep. Bagley’s premier accomplishments for the citizens of Northwest Louisiana
was securing $100 million in funding to advance the I-49 Inner-City Connector project in
Shreveport. In 2019, Bagley led the charge in persuading the Legislature to allocate a
portion of Louisiana’s settlement from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon Gulf of Mexico (now
Gulf of America) oil spill to support the infrastructure initiative. The funding will help
move forward the $600 million project to complete a 3.6-mile stretch of I-49 in
Shreveport, connecting I-49 at I-20 with the I-49/I-220 interchange.

Bagley’s leadership has also proved critical during times of crisis, having effectively
coordinated responses through five hurricanes and three major winter storm events that
left residents without electricity for multiple days. He worked closely with utility and
telecommunications companies to expedite the restoration of services. Bagley was also
personally involved with his constituents, helping them regain essential services during
these emergencies—including securing emergency backup power for nursing homes
throughout District 7 for vulnerable adults reliant on oxygen tanks to survive. “When
disasters strike, our people come together to help each other in their most urgent time
of need,” said Bagley. “In those moments, folks need someone they can count on—someone who shows up, who takes action, and who knows how to get through to the right government agency to deliver results when it matters most.”

Representative Bagley stated that he will not actively campaign for the Public Service
Commission until the conclusion of the current legislative session on June 12, 2025.
“Right now, my absolute priority is to continue serving the citizens of District 7 during the
2025 Legislative Session,” Bagley said. “I am committed to providing strong
representation to ensure our region receives the attention and resources we deserve
and to deliver the level of results that my constituents have come to expect from me for
the last ten years.”

In the House of Representatives, Bagley serves on the Appropriations, Insurance, and
Agriculture Committees, as well as the powerful Joint Legislative Committee on the
Budget. He previously chaired the House Health and Welfare Committee during the
height of the COVID-19 pandemic, where he took a bold stand against the overreach of
the previous administration. “They tried to tell us how to live—shut down our churches,
close our businesses, and force medical decisions on our people,” said Bagley. “But I
didn’t back down. I stood my ground for the people of Louisiana, because I believe in
freedom, faith, and the right to make our own choices.”

Bagley brings a long history of public service experience to his candidacy. A retired
public school teacher, basketball coach, and assistant principal, he also served two
terms on the Logansport City Council before being elected to the Louisiana House of
Representatives in 2015.

“My goal has always been straightforward—to serve people, solve problems, and
ensure that our area in North Louisiana remains in focus in Baton Rouge,” Bagley said.
“I will bring this same practical, results-driven approach to the Public Service
Commission.”

A comprehensive press release outlining Bagley’s full legislative record,
accomplishments, and policy goals for the Louisiana Public Service Commission
will be released at the conclusion of the Legislative Session in June.

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By Brad Dison

Donald Edwin Pollock was born in 1914. In the late 1930s, Donald met and fell in love with Nellie Ruth “Ruthie Pill” Pillsbury. They married in 1939. When the United States entered World War II, Donald joined the Navy. In 1945, they had a son named David, followed by another son named Stephen two years later. When Stephen was just two years old, his father said he was going out to get a pack of cigarettes. Stephen later quipped, “It must’ve been a hard pack to find,” because Donald never returned. He used the need for cigarettes as a ruse to get out of the house and he abandoned his family.

Ruthie Pill only referred to Donald a few times in front of her children. When he left, she acted as if he never existed. When Stephen was a little older, he began to ask about his father. Ruthie Pill told young Stephen, “When people ask you why he left, say he’s in the Navy and that he’s at sea because that might not be a lie.” David and Stephen always had more questions than answers about their father, but they knew it was painful for their mother to discuss. Stephen remembered that as a teenager he said if he ever met his father, he would sock him in the mouth. When he matured a little more, Stephen said that if he ever saw his father, “I would ask, ‘why?’… Then, I would sock him in the mouth.” Stephen never saw his father again.

Ruthie Pill struggled as a single parent, but she provided well for David and Stephen. They never got all they wanted, but they always got what they needed. Ruthie Pill read to David and Stephen often. Stephen remembered fondly that they sat spellbound as their mother read stories about U.F.O.s, paranormal activity, and other tales of the strange and unknown from Fate magazine. The two brothers were fascinated by stories and read just about everything they could get their hands on. Stephen began to recreate comic book panels that he found interesting. His drawings were good for a child his age, but he just copied the text verbatim. One day, young Stephen showed his mother a comic panel he had reproduced. She appreciated his artwork but was less than impressed with the stories he had copied. “I bet you could do better,” she said, “Write one of your own.” Stephen had never considered this before. The possibilities were endless. Stephen said it was, “as if I had been ushered into a vast building filled with closed doors and had been given the key to open any I liked.” As an extra incentive, his aunt paid him a quarter for each original story he created. Stephen’s first story was published when he was 12 years old in a self-published magazine his 14-year-old brother created called “Dave’s Rag.”

In 2014, Stephen had a genealogist investigate his family history. He wanted to know more about his father. The genealogist showed Stephen a photo of a man and asked if he had ever heard the last name Pollock. Stephen did not recognize the man or the surname. He said, the name Stephen Pollock “just doesn’t have the same ring to it.” The genealogist revealed a secret that had been unknown to Stephen, his brother, and, most likely, his mother. For reasons that remain a mystery, years before Donald and Ruthie Pill married, he had changed his name from Pollock to King. By changing his name, his wife and sons became Kings, and his youngest son became the King of Horror, Stephen King.

Sources:

1. “In Search of Our Fathers,” Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Season 2, Episode 1, September 23, 2014, accessed April 12, 2025, https://pluto.tv/us/on-demand/series/65c662fe70ac440013ca78fa/season/2/episode/65eb824d925569001374b855?utm_medium=deeplink&utm_source=publisher.

2. “Donald Edwin King,” Findagrave.com, accessed April 13, 2025, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/136342403/donald_edwin-king.

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April 16 is National Librarian Day, a time to honor the dedicated individuals who do far more than just shelve books. Today’s librarians are curators, educators, and community leaders, connecting people to knowledge in all its forms.

Gone are the days when a library was just a quiet room filled with dusty volumes. Today, libraries are vibrant hubs offering digital resources, job training, community events, and tech access — all guided by librarians.

At the Natchitoches Parish Library, Director Jane Harrison says the role of the librarian has expanded dramatically. “We’re no longer just custodians of books. We help people navigate information — whether that’s applying for a job, researching genealogy, or understanding online privacy.”

Librarians play a critical role in promoting literacy across all ages. From toddler story time to senior computer classes, they help bridge educational and generational divides.

With the rising tide of misinformation online, librarians are also becoming key players in the fight for media literacy and fact-checking. National Librarian Day recognizes their contributions, which often go unnoticed in the digital age.

Many libraries nationwide will host appreciation events, workshops, and social media campaigns to spotlight their staff today. Communities are encouraged to visit their local libraries and thank a librarian — the quiet force behind so much public good.

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Morris Williams
05/03/1944 – 04/09/2025
Visitation: Friday April 19,2025 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday April 20,2025 St. Paul B.C. at 11:00 a.m.

Michael Cortez Jones
09/28/1963 – 04/06/2025
Visitation: TBA
Services: Saturday April 19,2025 “Graveside” at 12:00 p.m. at the New Morning Glory Cemetery

DeSoto Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or billvance.erg@gmail.com. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to billvance.erg@gmail.com

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The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office has announced the successful conclusion of a narcotics investigation that led to the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of a significant quantity of methamphetamine in the Stonewall area.

According to Sheriff Jayson Richardson, the operation took place on the morning of March 31, 2025, when narcotics agents—alongside members of the Special Logistics and Intelligence Unit (S.L.I.U.), the K-9 Unit, and the SWAT team—executed a search warrant at a residence in the 300 block of Hilltop Road.

During the search, agents discovered a large quantity of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia inside the home. The investigation, which authorities say had been ongoing for some time, culminated in the issuance of arrest warrants for two suspects: Benny Brinkley, 70, and Glenda Brinkley, 65, both of Stonewall.

Charges Filed:

Benny Brinkley has been charged with:

Three counts of Distribution of Schedule II Narcotics (Methamphetamine)
Distribution or Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Glenda Brinkley faces charges of:

Distribution or Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Both suspects were booked into the DeSoto Parish Detention Center following the operation.

“This is yet another example of our agency’s ongoing commitment to removing illegal drugs from our communities,” said Sheriff Richardson. “We will continue to aggressively investigate and dismantle drug activity in DeSoto Parish.”

The Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to report suspicious activity through their tip line or the official DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office website.

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Lattorreous Deauntre Kelly is 32 a year old black male, standing 6’03” and approximately 171lb. His last know address was on Square Street in Mansfield, LA, and he is currently wanted by the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office on charges of:

Tier 1 Failure to Register as a Sex Offender Offense 14:80 – Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile

Felix Coleman is wanted by the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office on charges of:

Domestic Abuse Battery with Serious Bodily Injury

Domestic Abuse Battery / Aggravated Assault

If you have information that may lead investigators to locating these suspects please contact our office at 318-872-3956. You may also report anonymously using one of the following methods:

Visit http://www.P3Tips.com

Use the “Submit A Tip” feature in Contact Us section of the DeSoto Sheriff App

Call 1-800-505-7867

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BATON ROUGE – A bill introduced in the Louisiana House of Representatives aims to restrict the types of food that can be purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. House Bill 260, authored by Representative Romero, seeks to prohibit the use of SNAP benefits to buy certain unhealthy snack foods, including sugary, salty, and high-fat items.

The bill, filed for the 2024 Regular Legislative Session, cites concerns about the health and well-being of Louisiana’s children as a key motivation. Lawmakers argue that the current availability of unhealthy snack foods to SNAP recipients undermines efforts to promote healthier diets among low-income families.

If passed, the bill would add a new section to the state’s Revised Statutes—R.S. 46:302—which defines “unhealthy snack food” as including, but not limited to:

Sugary items such as candies, cookies, cakes, and sweetened beverages

Salty snacks like chips, pretzels, and other high-sodium processed foods

High-fat foods including fried foods, pastries, and packaged snack cakes

The legislation directs the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to develop and implement rules to enforce the restrictions. Additionally, the department would be tasked with collaborating with healthcare professionals, nutritionists, and other experts to create educational materials for SNAP recipients. These resources would inform families, children, and caregivers about healthier snack alternatives that can be purchased using SNAP benefits.

Supporters of the bill argue that it promotes better nutrition and long-term health outcomes for families relying on public assistance. Critics, however, may raise concerns about government overreach and the challenges of defining and enforcing what qualifies as “unhealthy” food.

As the legislative session progresses, the proposal will be subject to committee review and potential amendments before reaching a full vote in the House.

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Baton Rouge, La – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development continues to pick up litter across the state, and Love the Boot week is one of the highlights of the litter removal efforts. As a partner with Keep Louisiana Beautiful and all the statewide partners, DOTD staff will be out across the state removing litter during the week of April 5-13. However, this is just one day of Love the Boot week. DOTD staff continually removes litter year-round. For fiscal year 2024, DOTD committed approximately $13.6 million to litter pickup, picking up more than 18 Olympic swimming pools worth of litter, reinforcing the state’s dedication to maintaining clean and safe roadways.

“DOTD spends more than $13 million annually removing other people’s trash from state roadways,” said DOTD Assistant Secretary of Operations Todd Donmyer. “This is tax money that could be used to repave more than 100 miles of state roadways. Because litter is 100 percent preventable, it’s very frustrating to spend time and money picking up litter in a particular location and have litter quickly regenerate in the same location.”

Thanks to $3 million in additional funding allocated by the state legislature, DOTD has recently hired a contractor to remove litter from some of the heavily traveled routes throughout the state. The initiative officially began prior to the Super Bowl in the New Orleans area, where crews removed nearly 900 cubic yards of litter. Residents throughout Louisiana can expect to see a concerted effort to remove litter from major interstates, including I-10, I-12, I-20, I-110, and I-610, as the second part of the contract recently began. The removal efforts will eventually move to some of the more populated rural routes by the end of the year.

DOTD encourages all residents to play a role in keeping Louisiana litter free by disposing of waste properly and participating in local cleanup efforts. For more information on how you can get involved, please visit http://www.keeplouisianabeautiful.org. You can keep up with DOTD’s efforts on the DOTD Facebook, Instagram and X platforms.

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Northwestern State University’s School of Education signed two agreements April 8 that will facilitate credit articulation for teachers seeking master’s degrees.

One agreement signed between NSU and the Associated Professional Educators of Louisiana (A+PEL) addresses the articulation of the Ready to Teach Louisiana (RTL) curriculum developed by A+PEL that leads to alternative teacher certification and Louisiana Level 1 teacher licensure. Per the partnership with NSU, students who complete the Ready to Teach curriculum and earn a Louisiana Level 1 teacher certificate can receive 15 hours of credit from NSU towards a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a Transition to Teaching concentration.

Another agreement between NSU and the DeSoto Parish School Board creates a path of credit flow for teachers who complete Mentor Teacher Training, Master Teacher Training and/or Operation LEAD Training. With those completions and a bachelor’s degree, DeSoto Parish educators can receive up to 12 hours of credit towards a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at NSU.

“This is what makes teachers stronger, districts stronger and students succeed,” said Dr. April Giddens, interim director of NSU’s School of Education.

Dr. Dylan Solice, coordinator of NSU’s Educational Leadership program, was instrumental in developing the partnerships, which will help meet the need for high quality educators. He credited administration — Giddens, Dr. Katrina Jordan, immediate past director of the School of Education; Dr. Neeru Deep, dean of the College of Education and Human Development; NSU Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Greg Handel; NSU President James Genovese and colleagues with A+PEL and DeSoto Parish Schools — for supporting the initiative.

“RTL is an alternative certification program approved by BESE [Louisiana’s Board of Elementary and Secondary Education],” Solice said. “Northwestern State has its own alternative certification program, and we already articulate credit for NSU’s program to a concentration in our master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. We are now partnering with A+PEL to articulate credit from their alternative certification program to our master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction.”

“DeSoto has a wonderful multilayered leadership pipeline from where they develop mentor teachers, master teachers and educational leaders,” Solice continued. “We are working with their program to articulate different levels of credit towards our M.Ed. in educational leadership.”

“Northwestern has truly been at the forefront of educating the masses for such a long time, especially in the field of education, so this is a tremendous opportunity for us,” said Dr. Torrence Williams, RTL executive director, South Louisiana. “We’re looking forward to putting out folks who are both qualified and certified in the field.”

Clay Corley, DeSoto Parish Superintendent of Schools, said partnerships are the result of professional relationships and working together.

“This opens a lot of doors for our Mentor Teachers, our Master Teachers and our Operational LEAD participants to gain college credit. It’s a very rigorous process,” Corley said. “We are excited about bringing more of our leaders through this institution.”

Information on NSU’s School of Education, degree programs and steps to alternate certification is available at nsula.edu/education/.

A+PEL Signing: Northwestern State University’s School of Education and the Associated Professional Educators of Louisiana formalized an agreement in which Ready to Teach Louisiana completers can apply credits towards a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction at NSU. Seated from left are NSU Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Greg Handel; NSU President James Genovese, Dr. Torrence Williams, Ready to Teach Louisiana executive director for south Louisiana; Emily Ogden, Ready to Teach executive director for North Louisiana, and Dr. Keith Courville, A+PEL executive director. On the back row are Dr. Neeru Deep, dean of the Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development; Dr. April Giddens, interim director of the School of Education, and Dr. Dylan Solice, coordinator of NSU’s Educational Leadership program.

DeSoto Signing: Northwestern State University’s School of Education and DeSoto Parish Schools partnered in an articulation that will allow DeSoto Parish Mentor Teachers, Master Teachers and/or Operation LEADs to apply credits towards a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at NSU. Seated from left are Tamela Phillips, DeSoto supervisor of Human Resources; DeSoto Superintendent Clay Corley, NSU President James Genovese and NSU Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Greg Handel. On the back row are Brandon Burbank, DeSoto director of Administration; Lainee Cosby, DeSoto executive Master Teacher; Bridget Flanders, DeSoto director of Student Learning; Dr. April Giddens, interim director of NSU’s School of Education; Dr. Neeru Deep, dean of NSU’s Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development, and D. Dylan Solice, coordinator of NSU’s Educational Leadership program.

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By Steve Graf    

Not really sure where to start with this article. I understand that we live in a world that is
constantly moving forward in so many ways, especially when it comes to technology. All sports
evolve with time! While some progress is for the good of the sport, it could be argued that
some is not.

Golf, for example, has become so advanced due to technological advances with equipment,
that some golf courses are becoming obsolete. Whether it’s the clubs or the balls, the
advancements are insane and have made some golf course architects lengthen their new
designs to accommodate the improvements in golf equipment.

This is true even with bass tournaments. Rods and reels, tackle, bass boats and electronics have
all come so far in the last 20 years that the sport is no longer just about who can catch bass, but
who has the best equipment.

Technology has leveled the playing field with the controversial forward-facing sonar (FFS). This
invention has allowed the younger generation of anglers coming up to compete with the older
more experienced anglers. No longer can an angler just go flip bushes and win an event. He or
she better be good at using FFS and looking for fish that are roaming in open water, a technique
that was unheard of 10 years ago.

Also, 10 years ago, 20 pounds was the target weight if you wanted to have a chance to win. Not
today! The new normal at weigh-in time has become 25 pounds or better. Twenty pounds
today is average with this new FFS technology.

Another question that’s being asked today: “Why has bass tournament participation gone way
down?” By way down, we mean cut in half, as most tournament trail registrations are down 50
percent! Why? There could be several reasons like the economy, the price of bass boats, etc.,
but most will say forward-facing sonar.

Anglers using FFS are dominating tournaments. While other anglers can’t afford it, some have
just rejected or refused to learn to fish this way. They have come to the realization that they
just can’t compete with anglers who are using this advanced technology. Therefore, many have
decided to withdraw from tournament competition all together.

What does this mean for tournament organizations in the long run? Well, if they don’t adapt
and change, some will just fade away like the sun going down. But I think there might be a
glimmer of hope!

Some tournament organizations have taken the initiative to ban FFS in all their events in order
to encourage tournament anglers to come back. Up until now, only a few have taken a hardline
stance on this issue. Most benefit tournaments like the Despino Tire Fishin’ for Kids event have
banned this technology and have had record numbers of anglers show up to fish their
tournament. The Dylan Kyle Poche Tournament for 2026 will also be a no-FFS event. 

Other organizations have also taken a stance to ban this technology like the newest
professional level circuit, the NPFL (National Professional Fishing League). Top name pros have
made decisions to leave major organizations like Major League Fishing (MLF) and the
Bassmasters (B.A.S.S.) in order to fish with no FFS.

As some of the older anglers will tell you, the sport of bass fishing should not come down to
who has the best electronics, but rather who has the most skill for both finding and catching
bass. The new technology has ruined the purity and integrity of the sport of bass fishing. For the
first time in my life, FFS may be the most controversial advancement that a lot of anglers feel
has not been good for the sport.

So where do we go from here? Will 2026 bring a whole new set of rule changes like banning
forward-facing sonar? Will all tournament organizations finally take a stance and do what’s best
for the sport or will they be convinced by money from these electronic sponsors to maintain
the status quo?

Only time will tell what the future will hold for so many tournament organizations as they
attempt to reel in so many anglers that have left the sport for what they feel is an unlevel
playing field.

‘Til next time, make sure your hooks are sharp, and your boat is full of gas. Hope to see you on
the lake!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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For over 15 years, the Women’s Resource Center has hosted the Run Baby Run, a one mile fun
run and a 5K, to increase awareness of the Center and the services it provides. These free
services for clients include: pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, educational sessions, visits with
our client advocates, supportive services and material assistance. The mission of the WRC is to
educate and empower individuals to make life-affirming choices. The Women’s Resource Center
provided over 850 services in 2024 and is currently serving clients from ten parishes.

We are excited to announce that this year’s Run Baby Run will be held in conjunction with the
28th Annual Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival. On May 10, runners, walkers and supporters will
be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Natchitoches while supporting the Center. When Jazz
Fest organizer (and WRC Supporter) Rodney Harrington was asked about this new collaboration
he said, “I think it’s awesome that the Run Baby Run is going to be held the morning of the
Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival on May 10! It’s going to be a spectacular day in our town. The
participants will be able to finish their run, shower and still make it down to the riverbank in time
to hear Gretchen Wilson, the BAR-KAYS and all the other great acts at the festival. See y’all
there!”

Runners, walkers and supporters of the Women’s Resource Center will gather at First Baptist
Church, located at 508 Second St. in Natchitoches before 8 AM. Runners and walkers will take
the beauty of the Historic District of Natchitoches, while enjoying the buzz and excitement the
morning before the musical entertainment takes over downtown. Information, including
registration link, can be found at wrcnatchitoches.org/events/2025-run-baby-run.
The success of the WRC is strongly based on the support of its advocates, volunteers and donors.

While some grants are received, the Center offers numerous ways to support through monetary
and material donations. From the support of volunteers to NSU special interest groups to local
churches, the Center draws its strength from supporters in all forms. The Run is one of two
fundraisers the Center hosts during the year. Our largest fundraiser will be our Annual Right to
Life Gala slated for Sept. 18 at the Natchitoches Event Center. Visit our website for more
details or call 318-357-8888.

Paid Content

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By Doug De Graffenried

The other day I counted the words that I have created, these were either spoken words, or words like this article. In the 43 years of ministry, I have produced 15,000,000 words! You knew that preachers talked too much, now you have proof. That number includes, articles, 10 years of writing Sunday School materials, sermons, weddings, funerals, and the ever present “come speak to our group” events. I handle lots of words! The majority of those words had something to do with Jesus!

The Gospel of John (21:25) states that if everything Jesus did were written down, “I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written,” That is certainly a statement of hyperbole, right? Jesus lived 33 years on this earth. We have an extensive record of what he did during his three-year public ministry. Sounds like the gospel writer was exaggerating for effect, right?

Most scholars believe that Jesus was crucified between 27-33 A.D. There is no way of determining the exact date, but we know his life came to an end on the cross. We are also preparing to celebrate Easter. The good news that the tomb is empty because; He is risen!

Since he is risen from the dead, and now intercedes for us with the Father, since the Holy Spirit dwells in each one of us, Jesus is still “doing things” in our world and in the lives of individuals. The books would never catch up with what Jesus is doing, because He is ahead of the books.

Right now, as you read, He is working in your life. Now as you read, He offers you love and grace. In this moment, He whispers to your soul, “Follow me.” Jesus is walking the life pathway with all his children, through the Spirit. The books will never catch up with the powerful presence of Jesus in the life of the church and in the individual lives of believers.

The words of your life story are not complete, because Jesus, the Word made flesh is still working in you and through you.

Jesus keeps working in me and I share those words through writing and speaking. His Word is not finished in my life, yours either.

That is a good word!

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Red River Parish is home to many men and women who have served this country in the American Armed Forces. Therefore, whether you served in the US or overseas, during combat or peace time, Coushatta Veterans Service Organizations are hosting a Veteran’s Appreciation Day on Saturday May 17^th.  This is a free event to say “Thank you for your service” to all veterans of America’s armed services.

This event will be held in McLemore Hall of First Methodist Church on Front Street.  The date is Saturday May 10^7h from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm.

There will be a light lunch served, and all veterans are invited to dine at no charge.  Other guests will be asked to donate $10 to cover costs.  Information about services available to veterans will be provided by various organizations that serve vets in Red River Parish.  Topping off the day will be drawings for $100 in door prizes.  There is no cost and you do not have to be present to win.

The Veteran’s Appreciation event is sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars Red River Memorial Post and Auxiliary 7287.  In addition to the VFW, information tables will be manned by the Disable American Veterans, Congressman Mike Johnson’s office, the Red River Council on Aging, the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, and other local organizations.

Armed service veterans are invited to Veterans Appreciation Day at McLemore Hall of First Methodist Church on Front Street in Coushatta.  The hours are 11:00 am until 1:00 pm on Saturday May 17^th.  Reservations are not required.

For more information, please call VFW Post 7287 at 318-932-6557

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National Holiday: National Unicorn Day

April 9 brings a touch of magic with National Unicorn Day. This whimsical celebration honors the mythical creature that has captivated imaginations for centuries. From ancient myths to modern pop culture, unicorns symbolize purity, enchantment, and wonder. Fans can partake by donning unicorn-themed apparel, enjoying unicorn-inspired treats, or simply embracing the day’s fantastical spirit.

Historical Event: The Journey of Reconciliation Begins

On this day in 1947, the Journey of Reconciliation commenced. Organized by the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), this initiative involved 16 Black and white activists traveling together through the American South to challenge segregation on interstate buses. This courageous act served as a precursor to the more widely known Freedom Rides of the 1960s, highlighting early efforts in the Civil Rights Movement to confront racial injustice.

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By Brad Dison

Each year since 1950, people have gathered at Scotland’s Edinburgh Castle Esplanade in August for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Not to be confused with soldiers having ink inserted into the dermis layer of skin, a military tattoo is a festival consisting of music, dancing, and general merrymaking focused on Scottish heritage and international culture. The most anticipated portion of the festival consists of numerous precision military displays.

Since 1961, His Majesty The King’s Guard of Norway, an elite unit tasked with protecting the Norwegian royal family, has participated in the military displays. In August 1972, while in Scotland for the Tattoo, the Royal Norwegian King’s Guard added another soldier to its regimental ranks. On that day, Nils Olav became a lance corporal, a rank which usually requires long or outstanding service to attain. It was Nils’s first day. His first duty as a soldier was to inspect his troops, a duty he performed with the confidence and skill of someone with much more experience. Nils proudly wore a pennant of the prestigious King’s Guard around his right arm. Most soldiers would have resented a newcomer reaching such a rank without earning it, but no one resented Nils. You see, Nils Olav’s family had deep Scandinavian roots, and he was, himself, a king.

Nils may have been given the rank of lance corporal on his first day, but promotions came slowly at first. In 1982, after 10 years as a lance corporal, Nils received his first promotion when he was made a full corporal. Five years later, he became a sergeant. In 1993, during that year’s Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Nils was promoted to regimental sergeant major. Nils’s promotion and his inspection of his troops was televised in Norway and throughout much of Europe. Nils became somewhat of a celebrity Europe, though most people in America were unaware of his rising fame. In 2001, during a ceremony at the Tattoo in which Nils was awarded the Norwegian Army’s Long Service and Good Conduct medal, the Royal Norwegian Guard promoted him to colonel-in-chief. On the morning of August 15, 2008, Nils’s fellow soldiers gathered for Nils’s knighting ceremony. He has been known as Sir Nils Olav ever since. He eventually rose to the rank of brigadier.

If you are able to watch the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo this Fall, you will probably see Sir Nils Olav’s inspection of the troops. He has done it each year since 1972. But if you were to look closely at photos of Sir Nils through the years, you might notice minute differences in his appearance. You must have a keen eye to notice. In 1987, Nils Olav died and was replaced by a lookalike. He looked so much like Nils Olav that no one noticed. When the lookalike died some years later, he was replaced by yet another lookalike who continued his work in the military as if nothing had happened. Why did news outlets around the world not pounce on the story which should have captured our attention? You see, Sir Nils Olav is a king…a three foot tall king penguin. He lives at the Edinburgh Zoo and is the mascot for the Royal Norwegian King’s Guard.

Sources:

1. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, accessed April 5, 2025, https://www.edintattoo.co.uk/

2. The Guardian (London, England), August 17, 1972, p.6.

3. The Daily Telegraph (London, England), August 18, 1993, p.4.

4. Irish Independent, August 18, 2005, p.T4.

5. East Oregonian, August 15, 2008, p.8.

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Earl Wayne Jones
2/6/1953 – 3/27/2025
Visitation: Friday April 11,2025 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday April 12,2025 @ 11:00 a.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel

Betty Jean Mixon Skinner
February 27, 1930 — April 5, 2025
Services: 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 10, 2025 located at Fellowship Baptist Church, Converse

DeSoto Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or billvance.erg@gmail.com. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to billvance.erg@gmail.com

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Law enforcement officials have intensified their crackdown on drug-related crimes, concluding March with a series of arrests targeting narcotics distribution and illegal firearm possession. The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division, in collaboration with multiple task forces, has seized various illegal substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy, and prescription pills, while also apprehending individuals involved in illegal firearm possession.

The following suspects were taken into custody and booked into the DeSoto Detention Center, with all presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law:

Bo B. Kincaid (White Male, DOB: 03/29/1989, Keithville) – Arrested on March 5, 2025, by the Street Level Interdiction Unit (SLIU) and K9 Unit. Charged with:
Distribution or Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II (Methamphetamine)
Possession of Schedule III (Buprenorphine)
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Driving Under Suspension
Improper Lane Usage
Second or Subsequent Offense

Contravious Young (Black Male, DOB: 08/04/2001, Grand Cane) – Arrested on March 20, 2025, by SLIU. Charged with:
Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon

Allen A. Smiley (Black Male, DOB: 10/30/1997, Grand Cane) – Arrested on March 20, 2025, by SLIU. Charged with:
Possession of Schedule V (Promethazine)
Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
Traffic Violation

Charles Everett Wise (White Male, DOB: 04/14/1966, Metairie, LA) – Arrested on March 21, 2025, by SLIU. Charged with:
Possession of Schedule II (Cocaine)
Possession of Marijuana
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Illegal Use of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in the Presence of Minors

Isaac Philyaw (Black Male, DOB: 01/06/1979, Mansfield) – Arrested on March 26, 2025, by DeSoto Narcotics Agents. Charged with:
Distribution of Schedule I (Ecstasy)
Two Counts of Distribution of Schedule II (Cocaine)
Distribution of Schedule II (Methamphetamine)

Sheriff’s Office officials credit the success of these arrests to the DeSoto Narcotics Division, Street Level Interdiction Unit (SLIU), SWAT, K-9 Unit, and the Tri-Parish Task Force. Their collaborative efforts aim to disrupt drug distribution networks and reduce the presence of dangerous narcotics in local communities.

Authorities emphasize the ongoing nature of these investigations and encourage residents to report any suspicious drug activity.

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The community is coming together to make a difference as Keep DeSoto Beautiful hosts a Parishwide Cleanup on Saturday, April 12. As part of Love the Boot Week, volunteers will be dispatched across the parish to designated areas to remove litter and beautify the environment.

Following the cleanup efforts, participants are invited to celebrate their hard work with prizes, music, and food. Organizers highlight that the parish’s annual litter index continues to show improvement each year, thanks to the dedication of volunteers.

Residents are encouraged to sign up at keepdesotobeautiful.org. Volunteers will receive T-shirts, bags, and gloves to aid in their cleanup efforts.

Help continue the positive impact and Keep DeSoto Beautiful!

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The North DeSoto Wrestling Academy (NDWA) team ended their Folkstyle season on a high note, sweeping the podium in the 120-pound weight class at the Mat Gear Nationals.

In an impressive display of skill and determination, Xzavier Molinas claimed 1st place, with Colton Risinger-Burton securing 2nd, and Max Yerger rounding out the podium in 3rd place.

This dominant performance highlights NDWA’s strength on the mat and sets a powerful tone as the team looks ahead to future competitions. Great job, Griffins!

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By Doug De Graffenried

I was chasing a rabbit the other day and I went down the theological rabbit hole. This is what I discovered.

There is a great deal of sleeping going on in the New Testament.

Jesus was asleep in the back of the boat during a storm. The story appears in all three synoptic gospels. The disciple’s question was, “Lord, don’t you care that we perish?” The Bible says after God created; he rested. The Hebrew word is the intensive form of the verb. God intensely rested and commanded us to rest too! I’m not surprised Jesus was asleep after a long day of preaching and healing!

According to Luke, the disciples were asleep on the Mount of Transfiguration. The bright light and the visitation of Moses and Elijah awakened them. As Luke records the story, the bleary-eyed disciples missed the good stuff and became “fully awake” toward the end of the event.

Jesus told His followers to stay awake and watch for signs of great spiritual upheaval and then the second coming. He asked the disciples to stay awake and watch while He was praying in Gethsemane. But after the big supper and wine, the disciples kept falling asleep.

Sleeping soldiers were the first witnesses to the resurrection of Jesus. “And suddenly there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord, descended from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it…. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men.” The punishment for a Roman soldier falling asleep on duty was death. The soldiers had a problem explaining to their superiors who rolled the stone back from the tomb’s entrance. Can you hear these soldiers trying to give the angel report? It was easier for them to face death and confess to being asleep.

The book of Acts records another example of a sleepy disciple. Seated in a window was a young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, “he fell to the ground from the third story was picked up dead.” The story has a happy ending, he was not dead, just had the wind knocked out of him.

Sleeping is a good thing. In some of the modern works on spiritual formation, sleep is listed as a spiritual practice under “stillness” or “Sabbath.” God rested, Jesus slept, should we not take the hint?

The other side of the coin is known as “spiritual sleepwalking.” That happens when we practice all the rituals of our faith, yet we are not connecting with God. It does happen in church, when after the hymn singing the congregation sits down and some of them zone out.

I leave you with the words of the Apostle Paul, “And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.”

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The North DeSoto High School (NDHS) SkillsUSA team brought home multiple medals from their latest competition, showcasing their talent and hard work in various technical and leadership events.

Among the standout performers, Landen Foust took home the gold medal in Related Technical Math, earning a spot at the national competition this summer. Christopher Freeman also secured gold in Job Interview, qualifying him for nationals as well.

Other NDHS medalists include:

Kaylee Hust – Silver in Customer Service

Aiden Bourghs – Bronze in Customer Service

Kade Tinsley – Bronze in Carpentry

Lizzie Sepulvado – Bronze in Job Interview

With these impressive wins, the NDHS SkillsUSA team continues to make their mark, demonstrating excellence in technical skills and career readiness. Congratulations to all the medalists and best of luck to Foust and Freeman as they prepare for nationals!

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By Steve Graf    

Tournament bass fishing has been a huge part of my life since the early 1990s and occasionally,
the sport reminds you that you’re not as good as you think you are. Tournament bass fishing
has a way of checking your ego and bringing an angler back down to earth. This happened to
me just recently at an event on Lake of the Pines located in the heart of East Texas. 
 
As I arrived for practice on Tuesday for the ABA Solo 150 Tour event No. 1, I carried high
expectations for several reasons. I had fished well there in the past and a warming trend was
taking place for the entire week, which should have meant the bass would be pulling up into
the shallows. 
 
Next, based on the results of tournaments staged over the weeks prior to our event, it
appeared the bass were biting. And the fact that spring was looking to make an early arrival had
me beaming with excitement. 
 
Nothing gets an angler’s blood flowing more than the thought of bass getting ready to spawn.
This is when the big female bass (known as big girls; sorry ladies) come in looking for a place to
lay their eggs. It’s a time when they are most vulnerable to being caught, so it just might be my
favorite time of year to bass fish.  
 
While 90 percent of all tournament anglers don’t keep bass to eat, they still enjoy the challenge
of catching bass off their beds. Female bass (big girls) can be tough to catch this time of year
when it comes to biting an artificial lure during the spawn. They just don’t bite the same when
they are on the bed (nest) laying their eggs.  
 
For this event, however, it was all about location, location, location! Never in my 30-plus years
of tournament bass fishing have I seen the number of five fish bags being weighed over 30

pounds each. Based off simple math (which I can do), some of these anglers were weighing in a
6-pound average for every bass in their bag.
 
It would not shock many anglers for someone to do this during any springtime event, but in this
tournament, five anglers did it on the final day with one angler (the winner) bringing in a little
over 39 pounds with a five bass limit! 
 
That’s just shy of an 8-pound average, which is unheard of. By the way, the same angler that
weighed 39 pounds on the final day of our event, followed that up with another huge bag over
30 pounds the next weekend in another event.
 
Here’s how the weigh-in went for me: I had a little over 13 pounds on Day 1 and 14 plus on Day
2 for a total of 27.85 pounds, landing me in the middle of the pack at 21 st  place. Basically, I was
34 pounds behind the leader, which is the largest margin I’ve ever lost by in a tournament. It
was as if I was fishing on a completely different lake than the top 10 anglers!
 
I would like to point out that there were a few guys complaining about ONLY catching 23-24
pounds at the weigh-in. Hey guys, here’s some free advice from someone who has been doing
this for over 30 years. When you complain about having over 20 pounds at a weigh-in, it makes
you look arrogant and dumb — SO DON’T DO THAT!!!
 
Now that I have that off my chest, there’s one thing I do know about bass fishing. You never
stop learning, and you never quit trying. You just lick your wounds and move on to the next
tournament. I do recognize that this event was the exception to the rule when it comes to 30-
pound bags being weighed-in. But this one event truly humbled me as an angler.
 
While these kinds of weights coming to the scales is not the norm for most area lakes, Lake of
the Pines is fishing exceptionally well at this time when compared to other lakes in our region.
This is a testament to the outstanding job Texas Parks and Wildlife is doing with managing all
our Texas lakes. 
 

‘Til next time, keep your hooks wet and your live wells full and make sure you take the time to
take a kid fishing! 
 
Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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