DeSoto Parish Schools is gearing up to launch the 2025–2026 academic year with its third annual Back-to-School Blast Off, set for Friday, July 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the DeSoto Parish Schools Administration Building in Mansfield.

This highly anticipated event has quickly become a cornerstone of the district’s community engagement efforts, offering students and families an energetic and resource-rich way to kick off the school year.

A Launchpad for Student Success

The Back-to-School Blast Off provides families with vital information, supplies, and services to help ease the transition into a new academic year. Representatives from every DeSoto Parish school will be on hand to distribute back-to-school materials, answer questions, and help students feel ready and confident for their first day.

Event Highlights Include:

Free backpack giveaway (while supplies last)

Free sno-cones for the first 150 children, provided by Community Bank

Interactive booths hosted by local businesses and community organizations

Family-friendly activities and valuable resources for students of all grade levels

A Showcase of Community Partnership
The event also reflects the strength of community collaboration across DeSoto Parish. More than a dozen partners will be present, offering services and support ranging from health care and financial literacy to educational enrichment.

Participating organizations include:

Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana

Progressive National Bank

FUNdamental Pediatric Therapy

Mansfield and Stonewall branches of the DeSoto Parish Library

DeSoto Parish 4-H

Families Helping Families Region 7

DeSoto Regional Health System

JCampus/EDgear

The Arc Caddo-Bossier

BONVENU BANK, N.A.

Mansfield State Historic Site

DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office

Gratitude to Sponsors

DeSoto Parish Schools extend heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsors making this event possible: EIS Medclaims, First Choice Therapy, State Representative Larry Bagley, Sweet Kela’s, B & B A/C Service, Down Home Meats, Community Bank, Progressive National Bank, FUNdamental Pediatric Therapy, Stake Out Signs, and Bonvenu Bank.

Their support ensures that the Back-to-School Blast Off remains a free, accessible, and empowering experience for all families in the parish.

Join the Celebration

Families are encouraged to attend and take advantage of this fun-filled day dedicated to setting students up for a successful school year.

For more updates, visit the DeSoto Parish Schools website or follow them on social media using #TheDeSotoDifference.

Let the countdown to success begin!

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The attached report displays all individuals booked into the DeSoto Detention Center between the dates of JUNE 09 – JUNE 22 (2 weeks) 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, are readily available in the DeSoto Parish Sheriff App on iPhone or Android. The attached images may be clicked and scrolled for view.

The Desoto Parish Acceptance League celebrated the close of its inaugural season this week, marking a significant milestone in creating an all-inclusive sports environment for children with special needs. The final game of the season was not just an end — it was a celebration of courage, joy, and the unshakable spirit of the young athletes who took the field.

Over the past season, the league has provided a safe, supportive space for children of all abilities to experience the camaraderie, challenge, and fun of team sports. From the first pitch to the final play, the league has fostered not only athletic development but also self-confidence, acceptance, and friendship.

“This league is about more than sports — it’s about inclusion, empowerment, and showing our kids that they are seen, supported, and capable,” organizers shared. “Watching these young athletes grow and thrive this season has been a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together.”

Volunteers, sponsors, and families gathered for the final game, reflecting on a season filled with smiles, high-fives, and shared victories. Organizers extended heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made the season possible — from donors and sponsors to dedicated volunteers and cheering families.

As the league looks to the future, plans are already underway to expand its reach and offerings, opening even more doors for special needs children and their families in DeSoto Parish. Organizers say this expansion will require increased community involvement, including funding, volunteers, and local business partnerships.

“If you believe in creating a space where every child gets to shine, we invite you to be part of our mission,” they added. “Whether through time, resources, or sponsorships, your support makes a real difference.”

Photos, memories, and moments from the season are being collected and shared, with the community encouraged to contribute and celebrate the achievements of these remarkable kids.

For more information or to get involved with the Desoto Parish Acceptance League, reach out through the organization’s social media page or contact the league directly.

Together, Desoto Parish is proving that with compassion and community, there’s room on the field for everyone.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is currently updating the Statewide Transportation Plan and is inviting residents, commuters, and business owners to provide input through an online survey available until June 30.

The plan, last updated in 2015, will serve as a blueprint for shaping the future of Louisiana’s transportation system. The updated plan is expected to be finalized in 2025 and is designed to address the evolving needs of a modern transportation network—balancing safety, infrastructure longevity, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.

DOTD’s effort is guided by the theme “Shaping Louisiana’s Future: Your Journey, Our Priority,” emphasizing the importance of aligning transportation planning with the needs of the public. Transportation in Louisiana encompasses more than just roads—it’s about efficiently and safely moving people and goods across the state and the country.

To ensure the plan reflects the priorities of Louisianans, DOTD has identified six overarching goals:

Safety – Provide safe and secure travel across all modes of transportation.

Preservation – Maintain the state’s multimodal infrastructure in a state of good repair.

Resilience – Strengthen the system’s ability to withstand and recover from extreme weather and other disruptions.

Community Development and Enhancement – Ensure the transportation network serves all citizens and supports broader community goals.

Economic Competitiveness – Foster a transportation system that drives employment, commerce, and tourism.

Environmental Sustainability – Make transportation decisions that are respectful of Louisiana’s environment, culture, and history.

Public input will play a critical role in refining these goals and guiding investment decisions over the coming years. Whether priorities lie in road improvements, bridge repairs, public transit, or freight logistics, community feedback will help shape the vision for how Louisiana moves forward.

The public is encouraged to complete the brief survey by visiting https://latransportationplan.la.gov/survey/.

With growing demand, technological advancement, and shifting infrastructure needs, DOTD is committed to planning for a transportation system that supports safety, sustainability, and long-term growth. Public participation is essential to creating a plan that reflects the values and vision of all Louisianans.

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Doug McGuire was the Senior Minister of Trinity Methodist Church through the 1960’s. He was a great guy. In his retirement he acquired his private pilot’s license. Years ago, I was known to spend hours in the air with Doug. Doug has gone on to his reward. He was filled with preacher aphorisms. His advice was wise. He encouraged, “Always enter the pulpit with a full heart and an empty bladder. And don’t get them reversed!” He also said, “If a sermon is worth preaching once it is worth preaching again.” I wonder if that holds true for these articles.

To wit.

A dog was on a safari with this master, but he got lost chasing butterflies. He then noticed out of his peripheral vision that a lion was slowly sneaking up to attack him. He saw a pile of bones nearby. Pretending not to see the lion, the dog started chomping on a bone. He hollered, “Boy, the lion sure tasted good!” The lion decided that this must be a very ferocious dog, so he left.

But a monkey watched all of this. He chased down the lion and told him the truth. Furious, the lion turned around to go eat the dog. The monkey jumped on the lion’s back intending to watch the whole thing unfold before him. Realizing what had happened, the quick-thinking dog grabbed another bone and hollered, “Where is that stupid monkey? He should have brought me another lion by now!”

It is a great story. Don’t you wish you could be like that dog and be that quick witted? Sure you do! When someone zings you at work, you stew about it all that night and you finally figure out what you could have said to that person. Or after an argument you stew until you finally think of what you should have said.

In my line of work, I want to be comforting and Godly when someone seeks my wisdom or advice. Often, I am neither and I toss and turn until I come up with a better answer to a person’s question or concern.

Most of us wish we could think faster and say the right word at the right time.

I wonder how many of us read this story and thought, “maybe it is best not to get lost in the first place.” I think that was the ultimate point.

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Three fun-filled days and nights make Natchitoches the festive focal point in our state Thursday evening, Friday and Saturday with the 2025 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration and you and yours are invited.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2025 will be enshrined Saturday night at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 66th Induction Celebration. A seating reconfiguration last week created additional seating up to 900 and a few dozen tickets remain available at LaSportsHall.com.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday with the free admission Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m. at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street.

The Friday schedule begins with the Mardi Gras Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. There’s still room for individual and team entries with participants enjoying lunch catered by Walk-On’s while warm up for the competition takes place at the 40-alley facility.

Two of south Louisiana’s hottest musical acts from the Baton Rouge area will take the stage for the coolest concert for miles around, the absolutely free Rockin’ River Fest party Friday evening.

The Lauren Lee Band will get the party started and The Chase Tyler Band is the featured act on the Rue Beauport stage bordering Cane River Lake smack dab in the middle of the City of Lights’ historic and beautiful downtown district.

In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event that is approaching capacity on the Front Street bricks and inside Mama’s Oyster House, Papa’s and the Blues Room.

The slate on Saturday kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at LaSportsHall.com.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

Louisiana Public Broadcasting will televise the ceremony live from 7-9:30.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of 2025 is headlined by two men pivotal in LSU’s 2003 football national championship – coach Nick Saban and Andrew Whitworth, a champion at West Monroe High School, LSU and in the NFL during a 16-year pro career. More sparkle is provided by pro basketball All-Stars Vickie Johnson and Danny Granger, the state’s winningest all-time college baseball coach Joe Scheuermann and Danny Broussard, one of the nation’s most successful high school basketball coaches, in this year’s induction class.

It also includes LSU gymnastics great and NCAA individual champion April Burkholder, transformational Catholic-Baton Rouge high school football coach Dale Weiner and George “Bobby” Soileau, a four-time high school and 1956 NCAA boxing champion at LSU who also won a state crown as a football coach at his alma mater, Sacred Heart High School in Ville Platte.

LSU graduate Herb Vincent, now a longstanding associate commissioner of the Southeastern Conference, is receiving the Hall’s Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award with his enshrinement.

Also being honored: Ed Daniels, a generational television sports broadcaster in New Orleans, and Glenn Guilbeau, one of the nation’s more decorated sportswriters in a career that has seen him cover LSU, state college, high school and pro sports along with stories across the South and around the SEC. They are being inducted as recipients of the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism.

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By Steve Graf    

During the span of a lifetime, we are met with this question. For example, when is it time to change jobs, get married, have kids, or retire? Everyone has a different timeline for each of these questions. But the one thing we ALL want is the ability to make these decisions when we are ready and on our own terms. 
 
Everyone that has played a particular sport, especially at a high level, wants to walk away when they are ready, not when someone tells them they are no longer good enough. 
 
I’ve always wanted to be in control no matter what, and the one thing I’ve always told myself was, “When it’s no longer fun or I’m no longer competitive, it’s time to walk away.” I have applied this rule of thumb throughout my athletic career and will do so with regards to my fishing career. 
 
I’ve been fishing tournaments since the early 1990’s and have enjoyed almost every minute of it! Sure, there’ve been some ups and downs just like any other sport, but the friends I have made and the good times I’ve shared with so many can never be taken away. 
 
Another aspect I still enjoy today is trying to figure out how to catch bass. This never gets old for me. And the feeling I get when it all comes together for a tournament, well there’s just no better feeling in the world! It’s what motivates me and drives my competitive fire!
 
Over the years, people who don’t know or understand the sport of bass fishing think it is all luck. Nothing could be further from the truth because if that was the case, why are the same anglers always near the top of the standings?
 
They say luck is where preparation meets opportunity. I’m a firm believer in that saying because if you want to compete with the best anglers on any circuit, you have to do your homework and spend lots of time on the water. In bass fishing, “time on the water” is essential to being successful.
 
So, to answer the question of, “How do we know when it’s time?” – for me, it will be when I can no longer compete with the young guns of the tournament bass fishing world or when it’s no longer fun. 
 
But if all my fishing buddies continue to fish, I’ll still hang around. This has become the main reason I’m still competing today. I’ve been blessed with some of the best dudes an angler could ask for when it comes to travel partners. 
 
We’ve shared in some awesome times, ate some great meals and told a lot of fish stories, some true and some just pure lies! These same stories have been repeated time and time again and are told as if it was the first time we have ever heard them. But that’s ok, it’s all a part of the memories being made that make every trip special. 
 
One thing about tournament anglers, they are unique in many ways and are a little stingy when it comes to fishing information. We’ll try and help each other a little, but may not always reveal every detail on how we are catching fish. 
 
There’s also a great bond with all anglers that travel and stay together on the road. Each is always willing to help the other in their time of need, whether it’s a boat breakdown on the water or a blown trailer tire on the road. They are like the Marines; no man will be left behind!
 
This is why I’m still doing it at the age of 64 and will continue as long as my health is good, I can still get bites, and hopefully cash a check once in a while.

‘Til next time, here’s to wishing all anglers tight lines and good times fishing! 

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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On a relaxing Sunday afternoon on June 28, 1931, Betty Robinson and her cousin Wilson Palmer, a novice pilot, decided to take a flight in what one newspaper described as “an ancient plane of small design.”

Betty was an Olympian. In 1928, she won the first Olympic championship in the 100 meters for women’s track. Betty had made a few attempts to pilot a plane herself and took frequent flights with her cousin.

Betty’s and Wilson’s parents and friends chatted warmly at the airfield as their flight began. It was a scene they were familiar with until the airplane reached an altitude of about 400 feet. They noticed something was wrong. The airplane was struggling to gain altitude and the engine stalled. Wilson fought at the controls until the plane “slipped into a nosedive and plunged almost straight down.” At that crucial moment, Wilson instinctively cut off the plane’s ignition switch. There was nothing anyone could do.

Wilson fought with the controls until the end. Family and friends watched helplessly for those few seconds as the plane silently plummeted straight down to the ground right in front of them. Because Wilson had turned off the ignition switch, there was no fire. The crowd rushed to what remained of the airplane and dragged Betty’s and Wilson’s unconscious bodies from the wreckage. Motorists who had witnessed the crash stopped to help and transported Betty and Wilson to two different hospitals in Chicago; Betty was taken to Oak Forest Infirmary and Wilson to Ingalls Memorial Hospital. Doctors at both hospitals told their families that it was unlikely that either would survive. All they could do was hope and pray.
After reviewing her x-rays, Dr. Jacob Minke explained Betty’s injuries: “The thigh bone is fractured in several places between the knee and the hip and when it heals it will probably be a little shorter than the other leg. It will be months before she is able to walk again. She has a fractured left arm and internal injuries which may be more serious than is yet apparent.” Headlines read, “Crash Will End Athletics for Betty Robinson.”

On September 5, 1931, Betty was able to leave the hospital but remained in a wheelchair. She slowly began regaining her strength and her ability to walk. “Not being able to race is terrible to contemplate,” Betty said after leaving the hospital, “but I have determined not to let this accident ruin my life.” She hoped to become a coach at the 1936 Olympics. Despite her countless hours of physical therapy and training, Betty was never able to get back into the crouching position runners take before a race. Betty was at the 1936 Olympics, but not as a coach. Five years after the airplane crash that left her body broken and battered, Betty was part of the U.S. 4 x 100 meter relay team. During the race, Betty took the lead from her German counterpart and led her team to victory. Even with a stiff left arm and permanent damage to her left leg, Betty Robinson won her second Olympic Gold Medal.

Sources:

1. The Minneapolis Tribune, June 29, 1931, p.1.

2. Chicago Tribune, June 30, 1931, p. 13.

3. Chicago Tribune, September 6, 1931, p.17.

4. Chicago Tribune, September 29, 1931, p.4.

5. Chicago Tribune, December 22, 1931, p.21.

6. Chicago Tribune, August 10, 1936, p.20.

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On June 25, 1981, Microsoft took a major step toward transforming the personal computer industry with the introduction of MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System). Though the software would not become widely used until later that year, this date marks the official beginning of a platform that would come to dominate personal computing for more than a decade—and propel Microsoft from a modest software startup into one of the world’s most influential tech giants.

The story of MS-DOS is one of timing, opportunity, and rapid innovation. In 1980, IBM was developing its first personal computer—the IBM PC—and needed an operating system to run it. Microsoft, founded just five years earlier by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, had never developed an OS before. But when IBM came calling, Microsoft made a bold move: it agreed to provide the software and then quietly acquired an existing OS called 86-DOS from a small Seattle company, Seattle Computer Products.

Microsoft adapted 86-DOS for IBM’s hardware, rebranded it as MS-DOS, and delivered it to IBM in time for the launch of the IBM PC in August 1981. The agreement allowed IBM to use the system under the name PC-DOS, while Microsoft retained the rights to license it to other manufacturers. This seemingly small decision would prove to be one of the most consequential in tech history.

Over the next several years, MS-DOS became the backbone of countless IBM-compatible personal computers, also known as “clones,” which flooded the market. As hardware became more affordable and accessible, Microsoft’s operating system powered millions of machines in homes, schools, and businesses worldwide.

MS-DOS was a command-line operating system, meaning users had to type specific text commands to launch programs or access files—an experience that could be intimidating for newcomers. But at the time, it was a revolutionary step forward, offering a standard platform for developers and helping to fuel the rapid growth of the software industry.

Though rudimentary by today’s standards, MS-DOS laid the groundwork for future advancements in personal computing. It supported early versions of now-legendary programs like WordPerfect, Lotus 1-2-3, and eventually, Microsoft Word and Excel. It also paved the way for the development of Windows, Microsoft’s graphical user interface that would eventually replace MS-DOS as the dominant operating system.

By the mid-1990s, MS-DOS had been largely phased out as users transitioned to more user-friendly systems like Windows 95 and Windows 98. Still, echoes of MS-DOS remain in modern Windows environments, where the “Command Prompt” is a direct descendant of its early interface.

Beyond the technology itself, the launch of MS-DOS on June 25, 1981, marked a defining moment in Microsoft’s history. It positioned the company as a central player in the emerging PC industry and set the stage for its meteoric rise. By retaining the rights to MS-DOS, Microsoft was able to license the software to dozens of manufacturers, securing a steady stream of revenue and building a near-monopoly on personal computer operating systems for years to come.

Today, MS-DOS is a footnote in the story of modern computing, but its impact remains undeniable. It empowered a generation of computer users, shaped the trajectory of the digital age, and demonstrated how a few lines of code—backed by strategic thinking—can change the world.

As we look back on June 25, 1981, it serves as a reminder of how quickly technology evolves, and how the smallest decisions can have the biggest consequences.

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Lois Elaine Murphy Posey Scruggs
Service: Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at 11 am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, located at 943 Polk Street in Mansfield

Doris “Nana” Byrd Bynog
Services held on June 23

Kenneth Ray Sudds
01/27/1963 – 06/07/2025
Visitation: Friday June 27 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday June 28 at 10:00 a.m. at Keatchie C.O.G.I.C.

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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Mansfield High School will host a public memorial in honor of the late Ms. Lara Lyons, a cherished member of the school community, on Thursday, June 26 at 10:00 a.m. The remembrance event will take place in the school’s tailgating area, beneath the large tree in front of the campus.

The gathering will include a brief memory reading and sharing session, followed by a balloon release to celebrate Ms. Lyons’ life and legacy. Her family will be in attendance.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for comfort and balloons in green, white, or black—Mansfield High’s school colors—if they wish to participate in the release. All materials for the memory reading and sharing will be provided on-site.

School officials ask attendees to approach the event with compassion and respect, keeping in mind the emotional nature of the occasion. The event reflects the Mansfield High community’s commitment to supporting one another through loss and remembering those who made a lasting impact.

“Wolverine STRONG” remains the message from the school as they come together to honor a life that touched many.

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Northwestern State University has released its academic honors lists for the Spring 2025 semester, and dozens of students from across DeSoto Parish have earned distinction for their academic performance.

Students were named to the President’s List, Dean’s List, and Honor List—each representing outstanding achievement and dedication to academic success.

President’s List
The highest academic honor, the President’s List recognizes students who achieved a perfect 4.0 grade point average while enrolled full-time. The following students from DeSoto Parish earned this distinction:

Frierson: Christopher Longoria, Kaci McDaniel

Keatchie: Katy Cash, Arianna Findley

Logansport: Hayden Dowden, Jaylie Smith

Mansfield: Amanda Johnson, Elizabeth Walker

Stonewall: Rhyan Floyd, Amanda Law, Amber Melton, Jordan Porterfield, Braedon Theodos

Dean’s List

Students on the Dean’s List achieved a GPA between 3.5 and 3.99. These high-achieving students from DeSoto Parish include:

Frierson: Joshua Bouriaque, Alana Ester, Mikayla Mondello

Gloster: Alexis Procell, Brodie Rozema, Ellianna Ruiz, Iliana Ruiz, Caitlyn Seaton

Grand Cane: Trenton Bossier, Kaci Walker

Mansfield: Christopher Addison, Tekayla Bledsoe, Jessie Cobb, Shacobie Gray, Lametria Griffin, Darrian Hall, Valentina Puac, Paulette Rambin, Makayla Terrell

Stonewall: Carlie Beasley, Eloise Boudreaux, Alexa Cook, Aly Delafield, Evan Guillory, Kalea Harris, Madison Pender, Cesar Rivera

Honor List

Students named to the Honor List maintained a GPA between 3.0 and 3.49 while enrolled full-time. The following students from DeSoto Parish earned this recognition:

Frierson: Angelina Lee

Gloster: Cameron Curtis, Nailah Delton, Raven Fields

Keatchie: Sadie Gresham, LaCarol White

Logansport: McKayla Courtney, Ava Vowell

Mansfield: McKinnsey Brouillette, Nysia Samuels-Rochelle, Gabriel Sanchez, Kemariya Thomas

Pelican: Da’Kaliah Williams

Stonewall: Sydney Barnes, Lily Carney, Natalie Cobb, Shia Evans, Madison Jones, Anessa Morris, Breanna Murphy, Lauren Perot

Local officials and educators extend their congratulations to these students for their hard work and academic excellence. Their achievements bring pride to the DeSoto Parish community and highlight the strong tradition of scholarship among its youth.

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Sheriff Jayson Richardson has announced a recent series of arrests made as part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal narcotics activity in DeSoto Parish. The arrests stem from operations carried out by the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division, S.L.I.U. (Specialized Law Enforcement Investigative Unit), and patrol deputies.

The roundup targeted individuals involved in the possession and/or distribution of dangerous substances, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, ecstasy, and crack cocaine, as well as related offenses such as possession of drug paraphernalia, illegal firearms, and outstanding warrants.

“All of these arrests are the result of continued efforts to fight back against the presence of dangerous drugs in our communities,” said Sheriff Richardson. “We remain committed to working proactively to keep our neighborhoods safe.”

Arrests and Charges:
Adrian Walsh (W/F, DOB: 01/01/1999) of Junction City, KS
Possession of Meth
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Arrested by DeSoto Narcotics Agents on 5/22/2025

Maurice Edwards (B/M, DOB: 07/19/1975) of Frierson
Possession of Crack Cocaine
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Speeding
Arrested by DeSoto S.L.I.U. on 5/30/2025

Taijon U. Davis (B/M, DOB: 11/19/1998) of Shreveport
Possession of Ecstasy
Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS
Fugitive Arrest Warrant
Vehicle Required Headlamps
Arrested by DeSoto S.L.I.U. on 5/31/2025

Lecouriea S. McCall (B/F, DOB: 09/28/1998) of Shreveport
Possession of Meth
Improper Equipment/Display of Plate
Arrested by DeSoto S.L.I.U. on 6/5/2025

Keyvarion Pipkins (B/M, DOB: 05/29/2007) of Stonewall
Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearm
Resisting an Officer with Force or Violence
Tail Lamps Violation
Expired Registration
Arrested by DeSoto S.L.I.U. and Patrol Division on 6/10/2025

Tramika L. Scoby (B/F, DOB: 03/27/1983) of Shreveport
Possession of Fentanyl
Expired Registration
Arrested by DeSoto S.L.I.U. on 6/12/2025

Gregory D. Marshall (B/M, DOB: 08/24/1964) of Shreveport
Possession of Crack Cocaine
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Improper Equipment/Display of Plate
Arrested by DeSoto S.L.I.U. on 6/13/2025

Jeffery W. Fuller (B/M, DOB: 05/10/1963) of Gloster
Possession of Crack Cocaine
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Fugitive Arrest Warrant (Shreveport Police Department)
Arrested by DeSoto S.L.I.U. on 6/13/2025

Each suspect was booked into the DeSoto Parish Detention Center. Authorities remind the public that an arrest is not a conviction and that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Sheriff Richardson expressed gratitude to the deputies and agents involved, stating, “This effort is just one of many in our continuing mission to reduce crime and protect the citizens of DeSoto Parish from the dangers of illegal drug activity.”

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It hit me like a ton of bricks; I was ultimately responsible. That’s what they said in seminary, that the pastor was ultimately responsible. I learned the lesson in 1985, when Helen came out of the lady’s restroom at the church building complaining that there was no sacred paper in the room. “Who is responsible,” she bellowed. I was/am.

I was thinking about the whole realm of possibilities for avoiding responsibility. I write this “tongue in cheek” but you get the idea.

Let’s face it: responsibility is overrated. It’s the broccoli of adulthood—nutritious, necessary, and universally avoided until absolutely forced. But fear not, fellow obligation-evaders, for I bring you tried-and-true techniques to sidestep the shackles of accountability while keeping the illusion of competence.

1. Master the Power of the “Accidental” Oversight. If someone asks, “Did you email the report?” simply widen your eyes and say, “Wait… that was my task?!” This classic maneuver pairs beautifully with faux shock and frantic digging through folders. Bonus points if you fumble with your mouse like you’ve never used a computer before.

2. The Eternal E-mail Forward. When in doubt, forward the task to someone else with a cryptic message like, “Looping you in—thought this was more your area.” Now you’re not avoiding responsibility; you’re collaborating. You’re empowering. You’re… basically a leader.

3. Weaponized Incompetence. Why try, when you can fail so spectacularly on purpose that no one dares ask again? Mow the lawn into checkerboard patterns. Fold laundry into abstract origami. Burn toast with scientific precision. Soon, others will say, “It’s just easier if I do it myself.” Victory.

4. The Phantom Meeting Excuse. Nothing cloaks irresponsibility like the mythical, ever-running back-to-back meetings. “Sorry I missed that—was deep in Zoomland,” you’ll say, adjusting nonexistent headphones. If pressed, toss around vague jargon: “We were syncing on Q3 KPIs.” Nobody knows what that means. That’s the beauty of it.

5. Delay with Flair. Avoid saying no. Instead, say, “Let me circle back with some thoughts,” then enter a witness protection program. If followed up, respond with, “Waiting on some final input” (no one will ask from whom). Stall with the confidence of a bureaucrat stuck in a printer paper requisition loop.

6. Use Children, Pets, and Houseplants as Scapegoats. “My dog chewed through my internet cable.” “The kids scheduled a surprise virtual science fair.” “My fern needed emotional support.” The more oddly specific, the more believable. Besides, who’s going to interrogate a plant?

7. Mystify with Tech Jargon. If someone accuses you of negligence, murmur, “Must’ve been an authentication caching error on the API endpoint.” Say it like it haunts you in your dreams. They’ll back away slowly, unsure whether to nod or call IT.

8. Become the Question Master. Answer every request with a question. “Can you finish this by Friday?” you say, “What do we mean by ‘finish’?” “Who defines ‘Friday’ in a globalized world?” You’ve not avoided the task—you’ve started a philosophical dialogue. Bravo.

9. Disappear into the Vortex of Group Chats. Group chats are magical. Tasks vanish into the sea of emojis, gifs, and “LOL”s. If mentioned by name, hit them with a “thumbs up” reaction—neither confirming nor denying responsibility. You’re present, yet ephemeral. Like a responsibility ghost.

You caught on didn’t you, each one of us is ultimately responsible for the life we live. Or as the Bible says, we must all stand and give an account of the life we have lived, no excuses, no explanations. Each one of us before God!

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The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration’s Round Table Luncheon is the most exclusive, yet casual, opportunity for the public to enjoy hearing from the Class of 2025 inductees.

It’s next Saturday, June 28, at noon at Riverside Reserve, 104 Mill Street, in Natchitoches. There are still a few seats available among the 300 guests for the seventh annual Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation.

Registration is available for the luncheon and can be made by visiting LaSportsHall.com, or by calling 318-238-4255. It is a ticketed event and only a few dozen seats are still open to see and hear from 2025 inductees including Nick Saban, Andrew Whitworth, Vickie Johnson, Danny Granger, Danny Broussard and Joe Scheuermann.

Festivities begin next Thursday evening, June 26, at 5 with the free of charge Welcome Reception open to all, no registration necessary, at the Hall of Fame museum facing the traffic circle at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches.

The Friday, June 27 slate begins with the BOM Celebrity Bowling Bash at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. Friday evening is the free Rockin’ River Fest concert on Cane River Lake in downtown Natchitoches, from 6-10:30, with the Class of 2025 introduced at 9:15 right before a sports-themed fireworks show over the water.

Events Saturday include the free for kids Saints and Pelicans Junior Training Camp, the Round Table Luncheon, and the Induction Reception and Ceremony, which is sold out. A waiting list is being compiled.

The Round Table Luncheon starts with tremendous Louisiana cuisine and quickly kicks into gear with Fox Sports announcer (and 2020 LSHOF inductee) Tim Brando interviewing small groups of inductees on stage in a very informal and fast-moving setting.

A poignant scene at the 2019 luncheon unfolded before the program when Peyton Manning, being inducted later that day, stopped by to greet LSU legend Johnny Robinson, who was inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame two months later.

Scenes like that, up-close access and the fun-filled dialog between Brando and the Hall of Fame inductees combine to provide a memorable 90-minute event.

The Hall of Fame Round Table Luncheon shapes up as a highly entertaining opportunity for guests to have a up-close-and-personal experience and be entertained and well fed in a casual setting, with a touch of elegance at Riverside Reserve on the banks of Cane River Lake just a mile from downtown Natchitoches.

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By Steve Graf    

To answer the question of where the big bass craze started, all we need to do is look at our
neighbor to the west — Texas! No state has done more for bass fishing than Texas, and the
people largely responsible work at the Texas Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (TDWF).

Texas has led the way showing how all other states should manage their fisheries, especially
when it comes to producing huge largemouth bass. 
 
In the 1970s, tournament bass fishing was starting to take root and anglers wanted to catch
more and bigger bass. The first lake that started producing huge bass was a power plant lake,
Lake Monticello, near my hometown of Mt. Pleasant, Texas.
 
By the mid 1970s, this is where the big bass fever infected Texas and the bass fishing world.
Monticello was a hot waterpower plant lake which gave bass a long and productive growing
season. Here bass started spawning in December and as word spread about the size of bass
being caught, Monticello became a destination for all bass fishermen.
 
Then in 1980, one of the greatest bass fisheries in America was impounded … Lake Fork. This
lake was a game changer and lit the fuse for an explosion of huge largemouth bass. Every bass
angler that has ever wet a hook has dreamed of catching either a new world or state record
bass and most felt Lake Fork was the place that would give anglers the best opportunity.
 
It presently holds 12 of the top 20 bass ever caught in the state of Texas!  It recently showed
out this past May when the Bassmaster Elite Series showed up. It took a four-day total of over
128 pounds to win this event. The winner, with his best five, had a daily average just over 6
pounds per fish! 
 
Today, there are other lakes in Texas that are starting to produce record-size bass with the
most recent being Lake O.H. Ivie, located just south of Abilene. There, double-digit bass are
becoming the norm with 8-10 pound bass not even turning heads. 

 
In the last three years, O.H. Ivie has produced 39 bass weighing 13 pounds or more, all caught
between the months of January and March. In Texas, all fish caught over 13 pounds become a
part of what is called the Legacy Class Program. 
 
This is all part of the Texas ShareLunker Program. Biologists retrieve these huge bass from
around the state and take them back to the hatchery in Athens. There they will breed these
lunker fish with other lunker bass over 10 pounds, which in turn will be used as a part of their
stocking program for other lakes.
 
In 2023, bass caught in O.H Ivie made up 83 percent of the Legacy Class Bass caught in the state
of Texas. Today, this lake continues to produce lunker bass like no other. This calendar year the
lake has produced eight Legacy Class Bass over 13 pounds and 14 bass over 10 pounds as part
of the ShareLunker program.
 
To visit lakes in Louisiana where an angler might catch a double-digit bass, you may want to
check out Toledo Bend, Caddo Lake, Caney Lake or Bussey Break.

‘Til next time remember, the only way to catch big fish is if your lake has big fish! 

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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Edi was pregnant with her first child. Her pregnancy was considered normal until she started experiencing severe pains in her abdomen. She feared for her unborn child. Her husband rushed her to the hospital, and doctors diagnosed her with appendicitis. As part of her treatment, they put ice on her stomach. The doctors feared the treatment was unsuccessful and advised Edi to abort the child. They explained that abortion would be the best solution because they knew the child would be born with some kind of disability. You see, the doctors had misdiagnosed Edi and feared their odd treatment had jeopardized the fetus. Despite the dangers to herself and her child, and despite the possibility of the child being born with a disability, Edi refused the doctors’ advice. She was determined to have her baby.

On September 22, 1958, Edi gave birth to a son. As the doctors predicted, the child was born with a disability, congenital glaucoma. Edi’s son was born with damaged optic nerves which were responsible for transmitting visual information from the eyes to the brain. The boy was only partially blind. The extremely short-sighted boy could see everything but only from up close. By the time the boy was three-and-a-half years old, he had undergone 13 operations to try to improve his eyesight, but none of them worked. When he was seven, his parents sent him to a boarding school for visually impaired children because no local school would allow him to enroll. His family visited him at the boarding school once a month, and the boy returned home for holidays. Then, an incident happened which Edi’s son said was the worst moment of his life. The boy was playing the position of goalkeeper in a game of football — you and I would call this soccer — at the school for the visually impaired. It was Edi’s son’s first time as a goalie, and it would be his last. One of the players kicked the ball and it struck Edi’s son directly in the face. The force of the strike caused a hemorrhage and darkness fell over the boy forever.

Edi’s son may have lacked sight, but his hearing was perfect. At the young age of six, the boy began taking piano lessons. His interest in music led him to learn to play the drums, flute, guitar, saxophone, trombone, and trumpet. Following high school, Edi’s son went to college where he studied law. He supported himself through college by playing in piano bars. Once he earned his law degree, he worked as a court-appointed attorney. Edi’s son could have continued his occupation as an attorney and his story of achievement would certainly have been impressive, but, to our benefit, another career came calling.

Had Edi taken the advice of her doctors, we would never have heard a voice which has been on 15 solo studio albums, three greatest hits albums, nine complete operas, and has sold more the 75 million records worldwide… so far. Celine Dion once said, “If God would have a singing voice, he must sound a lot like…Andrea Bocelli.”

Sources:

1. John Hooper, “Tenor’s story acclaimed by anti-abortion campaigners,” The Guardian, June 10, 2010, accessed June 15, 2025, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/jun/10/andrea-bocelli-abortion-italy.

2. Thomas Edward, “Andrea Bocelli recalls the incident that left him blind: ‘That’s when darkness fell,’” Smooth Radio, September 9, 2024, accessed June 15, 2025, https://www.smoothradio.com/news/music/andrea-bocelli-blind-why-how/.

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June 18 marks the anniversary week of the death of Ray Charles, one of the most influential musicians in American history. Though he passed away on June 10, 2004, the week surrounding his death is often a time of reflection and remembrance for fans and artists alike.

Known as “The Genius,” Ray Charles helped shape modern music by blending gospel, blues, jazz, and country into a sound that became the foundation of soul. His influence stretched far beyond any single genre, and his legacy continues to impact music today.

Born Ray Charles Robinson in Albany, Georgia, in 1930, he lost his sight at age 7 due to glaucoma. Raised in poverty and orphaned as a teen, Charles’s early life was filled with hardship. Yet he found purpose through music, studying classical piano and composition at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind.

After moving into the professional music scene, Charles signed with Atlantic Records in the 1950s, where he found success with hits like “I Got a Woman” and “What’d I Say.” He revolutionized the industry by bringing gospel-inspired vocals into popular music, a move that gave rise to the soul genre.

Among his many classics, “Georgia On My Mind” became especially iconic, later adopted as Georgia’s official state song in 1979. Over his six-decade career, Charles earned 17 Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s inaugural class in 1986.

Charles’s contributions went far beyond music. In 1961, he refused to perform at a segregated venue in Georgia, taking a stand that would later be seen as a quiet but powerful moment in civil rights history. Throughout his life, he supported causes that uplifted underrepresented communities, particularly those with disabilities.

Despite personal struggles—including a long battle with heroin addiction—Charles maintained a prolific career and remained a generous supporter of programs for the blind and disadvantaged youth. He fathered 12 children and continued to perform and record well into his later years.

His final album, Genius Loves Company, was released shortly after his death and featured duets with artists like Norah Jones, Elton John, and Bonnie Raitt. The album earned eight Grammy Awards in 2005, including Album of the Year, further cementing his legacy.

A memorial service was held on June 18, 2004, at the First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Los Angeles, where stars such as B.B. King, Stevie Wonder, and Willie Nelson paid tribute to the late artist. Then-President George W. Bush called Charles “a great American legend.”

Ray Charles passed away at age 73 from liver disease, but his music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. As fans remember him during the week of his passing, his life stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and soul.

From a blind child in the segregated South to a global icon, Ray Charles redefined what was possible in music—and proved that genius knows no boundaries.

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Brenda Williamson
February 11, 1958 — June 14, 2025
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until services
Services: Wednesday June 18 at 12:00 p.m. at Southside Baptist Church

Bettie Bernice Rushing
March 11, 1940 — June 16, 2025
Visitation: Thursday June 19 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Services: Thursday, June 26 at 11:00 a.m. at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Carthage, Texas

Jewel Rogers
June 27, 1941 — June 15, 2025
Visitation: Thursday, June 19 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home
Services: Friday, June 20 at 2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home

Brunell Greene Eddington
May 16, 1934 — June 14, 2025
A private graveside service for family will be held.

Kenneth Ray Sudds
01/27/1963 – 06/07/2025
Visitation: Friday June 27 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday June 28 at 10:00 a.m. at Keatchie C.O.G.I.C.

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 Police Jury has announced that road work on Twin Oaks in Stonewall is scheduled to resume next week, from June 9 through June 13, prompting a temporary daytime closure of the roadway.

During this period, Twin Oaks will be closed to traffic during daytime hours to allow construction crews to complete necessary improvements safely and efficiently. Residents and motorists are advised to use the alternate route via Middleton for access in and out of the area.

Parish officials apologize for any inconvenience the closure may cause and appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as infrastructure improvements continue.

“The safety of our residents and workers is our top priority,” a Police Jury representative said. “We’re working hard to complete this project with as little disruption as possible.”

Updates will be shared if weather or project conditions affect the construction schedule.

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As hay season ramps up across DeSoto Parish, the DeSoto Parish Extension Office of the LSU AgCenter is reminding drivers to be extra cautious and courteous when sharing the road with agricultural equipment.

Tractors and hay machinery are now more frequently seen on local highways and rural roads, often traveling at slow speeds of 18 to 20 miles per hour. Officials stress that while these vehicles may temporarily slow traffic, they play a vital role in local food production and the agricultural economy.

Road Safety is a Shared Responsibility

The Extension Office is offering simple but important guidance to help keep roads safe for both farmers and motorists:

For Drivers: Slow down when approaching farm equipment. Keep a safe following distance and only pass when it’s clearly safe and legal. Remember: that tractor is contributing to the food on your table.

For Farmers: Ensure all equipment is properly marked with slow-moving vehicle emblems and that flashing lights are activated to increase visibility on the road.

“Farmers in DeSoto Parish are working long, demanding hours to meet agricultural needs,” a spokesperson from the Extension Office said. “We ask residents to show patience and understanding as they encounter these essential workers on the road.”

The advisory comes as part of an ongoing effort to promote agricultural awareness and road safety throughout the busy summer season. With increased farm traffic expected in the weeks ahead, officials urge everyone to remain vigilant and respectful while driving.

Safety on rural roads starts with awareness and cooperation. Let’s all do our part to keep DeSoto Parish safe this hay season.

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In a moving ceremony held during its June 5 meeting, the DeSoto Parish School Board officially dedicated its boardroom in memory of the late Louis James (L.J.) Mayweather, Jr., paying tribute to his extraordinary four decades of service to public education and the DeSoto Parish community.

Mr. Mayweather served as a board member from 1980 until his retirement in 2020, making him the longest-tenured member in the district’s history. In a ceremony attended by Superintendent Clay Corley, current board members, and members of the Mayweather family, a commemorative plaque was unveiled honoring his lifelong commitment to students, educators, and community progress.

A Lasting Legacy

The plaque now displayed in the newly named L.J. Mayweather Jr. Board Room reads, in part:

“With profound respect and deep appreciation, this Board Room is dedicated to the memory of L.J. Mayweather, Jr… His unwavering dedication and consistent devotion to DeSoto Parish Schools has left an everlasting imprint on this community.”
Board President Donnie Dufour shared heartfelt remarks during the dedication, saying, “L.J. wasn’t just a leader; he was a pillar in our community. His voice, his vision, and his heart for children shaped this district in ways that will be felt for generations.”

Throughout his 40-year tenure, Mayweather was known for his steady leadership, thoughtful counsel, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of education to transform lives. His guidance helped navigate the district through decades of educational changes and achievements.

An Enduring Tribute
The renaming of the boardroom is more than symbolic—it represents the indelible mark L.J. Mayweather, Jr. left on DeSoto Parish Schools. District officials say his legacy will continue to inspire decisions and shape the educational future of the parish.

As Superintendent Corley noted, “Every conversation and every decision made in this room will now carry the spirit of Mr. Mayweather’s wisdom, compassion, and unwavering commitment to excellence in education.”

The dedication marks not only a celebration of Mr. Mayweather’s remarkable contributions but also a permanent reminder of the values he championed for over 40 years.

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Brad Dison, a lifelong resident of Bienville Parish and writer whose history column “Remember This?” runs weekly in the Journal, has released a new book about Sheriff Henderson Jordan’s pursuit and capture of notorious gangsters Bonnie and Clyde.

“The Trap: The Untold Story of Sheriff Henderson Jordan and the Final Pursuit of Bonnie and Clyde” is now available for purchase at www.HendersonJordan.com.

“There has been more fiction than fact written about their crime spree,” Dison said. “For 91 years, people have assumed that former Texas Ranger Frank Hamer used his superior tracking skills to locate Bonnie and Clyde. This is another bit of fiction. It was Bienville Parish Sheriff Henderson Jordan who located two of their hideouts in Bienville Parish. It was he who set three traps to capture the gang. It was he who used an ‘undercover man’ and a ‘man on the inside’ to determine where they would be on that fateful morning of May 23, 1934. It was he who led the ambush posse and ended their violent crime spree.”

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I had it but it is gone now.

You read these articles days after I send them. My habit is to write and send them on Monday morning before noon. So, I start thinking about them on Sunday afternoon. I had the greatest idea in the history of these articles for an article. The idea was brilliant. It was illuminating. It was humorous. It was less than six hundred words. I remember exactly where I had the idea. I was sitting in traffic at Walgreens. I was on my way to Tractor Supply to look at things I will never use in my life. I call this “expanding my horizons.” I smiled to myself and asked myself if I should write the idea down. Somewhere in my brain the voice told me that this idea was so brilliant, illuminating, and humorous there would be no way I could ever forget the idea.

Never ever trust that voice in your head. The voice lies. I have no idea what I was going to write. I do not have a clue. I do not know if it was animal, mineral, or vegetable. I lost it. The idea is gone or has landed in someone’s Instagram feed, and they are claiming it as their very own idea. Today, if you read something brilliant, illuminating, and humorous, it was probably my idea!

The idea for the article had something to do with a Yiddish proverb. The Yiddish proverb teaches, “If one man calls you an ass pay him no mind. If two men call you an ass—go and buy a saddle.” I thought it was brilliant, illuminating, and humorous. I forgot what else went with it.

Do you forget?

As I grow more mature and notice all the physical stuff that does not work anymore, I have noticed that my mind is not as quick as it once was. I forget things. I just remembered that I forgot to read an Internet article on remembering not to forget.

Here is the truth in all this. God remembers you! He loves you, knows you, and remembers you as if you were His only child!

When you confess your sins to Him, He forgets them. Since God has forgotten your sins, why do you keep carrying them around?

I am glad God remembers and forgets!

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The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your
way at the end of the month.

Three days of festivities are approaching beginning Thursday June 26 through Saturday June 28 for the
2025 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2025 will be enshrined Saturday night June 28 at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 66 th Induction Celebration. The final event is already full with a waiting list and standing
room only tickets available.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 26, with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m.,
free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street.

The Friday, June 27 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons
Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2025 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert on the downtown riverbank
stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of
Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event that is approaching capacity.

The slate on Saturday, June 28 kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community
relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches
and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center
and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing
capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at
LaSportsHall.com.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for
Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at
5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State
University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception
and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling
318-238-4255.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of 2025 is headlined by two men pivotal in LSU’s 2003 football national championship – coach
Nick Saban and Andrew Whitworth, a champion at West Monroe High School, LSU and in the NFL during
a 16-year pro career. More sparkle is provided by pro basketball All-Stars Danny Granger and Vickie
Johnson, the state’s winningest all-time college baseball coach Joe Scheuermann and Danny Broussard,
one of the nation’s most successful high school basketball coaches, in this year’s induction class.

It also includes LSU gymnastics great and NCAA individual champion April Burkholder, transformational
Catholic-Baton Rouge high school football coach Dale Weiner and George “Bobby” Soileau, a four-time
high school and 1956 NCAA boxing champion at LSU who also won a state crown as a football coach at
his alma mater, Sacred Heart High School in Ville Platte.

LSU graduate Herb Vincent, now a longstanding associate commissioner of the Southeastern
Conference, is receiving the Hall’s Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award with his enshrinement.

Also being honored: Ed Daniels, a generational television sports broadcaster in New Orleans, and Glenn
Guilbeau, one of the nation’s more decorated sportswriters in a career that has seen him cover LSU,
state college, high school and pro sports along with stories across the South and around the SEC. They
are being inducted as recipients of the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Distinguished Service
Award in Sports Journalism.

The 2025 Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the
support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors. 

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation
President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke,
Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or
GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.

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