Gary Mark Gilmore’s life of crime began when he was in his early teens. It started with petty theft and soon evolved into Gary leading a car theft ring. Gary was in a seemingly endless rotation of crime and prison. After his father died of lung cancer, news which he received from a prison guard, the speed of Gary’s downward spiral increased exponentially. When Gary was released from prison, he became more erratic and became an alcoholic. In his mid-twenties, Gary was convicted of assault and armed robbery and sent back to prison. Eight years later, he was released on a conditional parole. Within a month, he was arrested for armed robbery. After his conditional parole from prison in 1976, 35-year-old Gary moved to Provo, Utah, to live with a distant relative.

At about 11 p.m. on the night of July 19, 1976, three months after his release from prison, Gary robbed 25-year-old Max David Jensen, the night attendant at a service station in Orem, Utah. Max was a graduate of Utah State University and was working at the gas station to pay his way through Brigham Young University Law School. Max had married 14 months earlier and had an infant daughter. At the end of the robbery, Gary told Max to lie down on the floor. Then, Gary shot Max twice in the head with a .22 caliber pistol. Max lost his life for $150.

Just before 11 p.m. on the following night, Gary robbed 26-year-old Bennie Jewkes Bushnell, the night clerk of the City Center Hotel in Provo, Utah. Like Max, Bennie had been married a short time, had an infant child, and was working his way through Brigham Young University. Gary forced Bennie to lie down on the floor and killed him in the same manner as he had Max. Bennie lost his life for $125.

Gary had parked his truck at a nearby service station and walked to the motel. Following the robbery, an attendant at the service station saw Gary return to his car, noticed he was bleeding, heard about the shooting at the motel, and called police. The service station attendant knew Gary and told police where he was living. With that information, officers arrested Gary without incident within three hours.

On October 7, 1976, after a two-day trial, a jury found Gary guilty of murdering Bennie and sentenced him to death. After hearing the verdict, Judge J. Robert Bullock asked Gary if he preferred to be hung or shot. Gary replied, “I prefer to be shot.” On January 17, 1977, as he stood before the six-man firing squad, Gary told the warden his last words. At 8:07 a.m., Gary’s sentence was carried out.

In 1988, Dan Wieden, co-founder of the advertising company Wieden and Kennedy, was hired to come up with a catchy slogan for a struggling company. Dan remembered Gary Gilmore’s last words and tweaked it slightly. A killer’s last words, “let’s do it,” which Dan tweaked to “just do it,” became one of the most successful slogans in advertising history and transformed the fortunes of a struggling shoe company called Nike.

Sources:

1. The Daily Herald (Provo, Utah), July 21, 1976, p.1,4.

2. The Daily Herald, July 23, 1976, p.2.

3. The Daily Herald, October 6, 1976, p.3.

4. The Daily Herald, October 8, 1976, p.1.

5. The Daily Herald, January 17, 1977, p.1.

6. The Miami Herald, August 22, 2009, p. 91.

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It was on July 16, 1969, at 9:32 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time that NASA’s Apollo 11 mission lifted off from Cape Kennedy, Florida, beginning humanity’s most audacious journey yet: reaching the Moon. Almost 56 years later, the launch remains one of the most iconic moments of the 20th century, reshaping the trajectory of science, culture, and global ambition.

The Saturn V rocket, roaring to life against a clear summer sky, carried astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins. Their mission would etch their names—and Armstrong’s first steps—into history, fulfilling President John F. Kennedy’s bold pledge to land a man on the Moon and return him safely by the end of the decade.

More than just a technological marvel, Apollo 11 symbolized a powerful achievement in human collaboration and resolve. Countless scientists, engineers, technicians, and support personnel across the nation pulled together to make the lunar landing possible. The mission also served as a dramatic turning point during a time marked by Cold War tensions and questions of global leadership.

On launch day, millions watched breathlessly as Apollo 11 cleared the tower and vanished into the heavens. Days later, on July 20, Armstrong stepped onto the lunar surface declaring, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” a phrase forever etched into the collective memory.

In the aftermath of the mission, public fascination soared. Televisions replayed the grainy images of lunar descent and Earthrise over and over. The success reaffirmed faith in scientific exploration and offered a unifying narrative of human achievement during a turbulent era.

The Apollo 11 launch also accelerated technological spin-offs: advances in materials science, telecommunications, computing, and more emerged from the mission’s rigorous demands. It served as the spark for future space exploration—from Skylab and the Space Shuttle to the International Space Station and plans for Mars missions.

What makes the anniversary of the 1969 launch especially resonant in July 2025 is its enduring legacy. Despite shifting priorities and challenges to space funding over the decades, the launch still represents a benchmark of inspiration. For many, it reminds us that bold vision combined with hard work can achieve what once seemed impossible.

On this day in history, the world also commemorates several other memorable firsts. July 16, 1945, saw the first successful test of an atomic bomb at Alamogordo, New Mexico, marking the dawn of the nuclear age. And in 1790, Washington, D.C. was designated as the capital of the United States, setting a foundation for the nation’s seat of government.

But it is Apollo 11 that captures the imagination in a timeless way—an emblem not only of space exploration, but of the enduring human spirit. Four decades later, the Earthbound crowd of July 1969 may have dispersed, but the ripple effects of that launch continue to shape aerospace, innovation, and cultural identity.

Today, as space agencies plan new missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, the legacy of Apollo 11 remains a lodestar. The mission proved that frontiers once thought unreachable exist merely to be explored, as long as curiosity, courage, and cooperation prevail.

So as July 16 unfolds in 2025, the world pauses to honor that pivotal moment when Apollo 11 vaulted skyward—and forever opened the door to the stars.

Photo Credit: NASA

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James Henry Jones Sr.
08/17/1924 – 07/11/2025
Visitation: Friday July 18 from 2:00 P.M.-6:00 P.M. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday July 19 at 11:00 A.M. at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Naborton

Shirley Mae Russell
04/04/1965 – 07/10/2025
Visitation: Friday July 18 from 2:00-6:00 P.M. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday July 19 at 11:00 A.M. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel

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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After more than three decades of unwavering commitment to education, Mrs. Sherri Laffitte, Supervisor of Technology for DeSoto Parish Schools, is retiring, marking the end of a remarkable 34-year career.

Throughout her tenure, Mrs. Laffitte served as a vital force behind the scenes, ensuring the seamless operation of the district’s technology infrastructure. From overseeing complex districtwide systems to resolving issues quietly and efficiently, her work was often invisible to the public but crucial to the day-to-day success of classrooms across the parish.

“She was the backbone of our technological operations,” said school officials. “Her efforts powered instruction, connected campuses, and supported student achievement in countless ways that were essential—yet often unseen.”

Known for her quiet dedication and tireless work ethic, Mrs. Laffitte played a key role in supporting the evolving technology needs of educators and students alike, especially during times of rapid digital change.

As she enters retirement, the DeSoto Parish School System extends heartfelt thanks and congratulations.

“Happy retirement, Mrs. Laffitte—you’ve more than earned it. Your legacy of service and support will continue to impact our schools for years to come.”

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Two members of the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO) were recently recognized for their heroic actions during a critical emergency response that saved a life. Deputy Tristan Reed and Sergeant Angela Jordan were each presented with the prestigious Outstanding Life Saving Safety Award by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of Louisiana.

The award presentation took place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, during the Joint Opening Ceremony of the VFW Department of Louisiana’s Annual State Convention at the Randolph Riverfront Convention Center in Alexandria. The honor was extended on behalf of over 10,000 VFW members and more than 5,000 members of the VFW Auxiliary.

According to DPSO, Reed and Jordan were instrumental in providing life-saving aid to a gunshot victim earlier this year. Their quick thinking and skilled response were previously highlighted by the department and have now drawn statewide recognition from the VFW.

Deputy Reed and Sgt. Jordan were accompanied at the ceremony by their Patrol Captain, Michael Dunn, Corporal Charla Burch, and several family members.

Sheriff Jayson Richardson offered his gratitude to the VFW and all who support law enforcement officers and service members:

“We are proud of Deputy Reed and Sergeant Jordan for their outstanding service and courage. We also thank the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the VFW Auxiliary for recognizing the incredible efforts of our deputies. This level of support from our community and veterans’ organizations means a great deal.”
DPSO extended congratulations and appreciation to both officers for their exemplary service to the citizens of DeSoto Parish.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that on Monday, July 14, 2025, the US 84 bridge over Castor Bayou near Logansport in DeSoto Parish will be reduced to one lane.

This lane closure is scheduled to take place from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and is necessary for routine bridge inspection.

This bridge is located approximately 2.1 miles east of LA 5 (see included map).

Restrictions/Permits: This lane closure will allow vehicles 14 feet wide or smaller to pass through the inspection zone. Larger vehicles must utilize an alternate route.

Alternate Route: LA 5 to LA 3015 to US 171

This work will be performed WEATHER PERMITTING.

Safety reminder:

DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment. Remember to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.

Additional information:

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

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By Steve Graf    

In August of 1979, I loaded my ’71 Buick LeSabre and headed from east Texas to Louisiana and Northwestern State University. The opportunity to continue my athletic career was a scholarship offer to play both football and baseball at NSU. To say I was nervous would be an understatement. I was also excited and scared all at the same time.

Back then, the NSU football staff would send a workout program at the beginning of the summer that you needed to follow in order to show up in shape for two-a-days. Being an incoming freshman and not knowing what to expect, I showed up in the best shape of my life.

That summer I held down three jobs. One was working from 5-7:30 each morning for a company called Tex Pac, which was similar on a smaller scale to today’s FedEx. Then I would head for the Texas Highway Department from 8-5. My evening job was working for Dixie Youth from 6-9:30 keeping score and doing general field maintenance. Then I would do my NSU workout in the dark from 10-11:30 at the high school track and football field.

Let’s just say that sleeping was not a problem for me during this time. I will also admit that a Tex Pac co-worker who was a close friend of mine (Bill Curry) had to knock on my door a few times to make sure I got up. But everything considered, I was fairly responsible at making sure I was on time for all my summer jobs.

The day finally came to load the car and head for Louisiana. Little did I know at the time that this would be the greatest journey of my life. It would alter my future in ways I could never imagine.

It was a three-hour drive from Mt. Pleasant, Texas, to Natchitoches and NSU. I can still remember asking myself, “Am I good enough to play on the Division 1 level? Will I be able to compete with these guys? Will my teammates accept me for the person I am, and will I fit in?”

These are questions every athlete asks when making that jump from high school to college. But as I arrived in the parking lot at the football dorm on NSU campus, I was immediately greeted by a couple of Demon football players — offering me a solo cup of cold beer that was being iced down in three horse troughs.

Being from east Texas and growing up in a dry town, I was raised on Kool-Aid and sweet tea, along with a daily glass of milk. The thought of a beer just did not sit well. Even over time, I never developed a taste for beer.

It did not take me long to realize that I was no longer in east Texas anymore! Coming to Louisiana was a culture shock for me, to say the least, but one that I would embrace. All the guys (teammates) were so welcoming and supporting that it helped to make the transition easier.

Leaving home for the first time in 1979 and being on my own really helped me to grow up. We all thought that when we turned 18, we knew everything, and our parents knew nothing. We thought we were ready to tackle the world, and while most of us were, we still made dumb decisions. But this is all a part of the maturation process that each of us goes through, and hopefully survives, coming out a better person on the other side.

Looking back, my college experience was awesome as I played football and baseball with some of the greatest athletes that ever played at Northwestern. It was an experience that changed my life forever. I met my wife (Sherrie) of 44 years, and we raised three beautiful children and continue to live in Natchitoches to this day.

When we’re young, we don’t always recognize how great an opportunity is until it’s all over. To every athlete out there that gets the opportunity to play on the collegiate level, don’t waste it!

Take advantage and make the most of your time in college. Additionally, make sure to show appreciation to those who granted you that chance to extend your athletic career. But more importantly, thank them for the opportunity to get a college degree!

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How is your hope holding up?

We are sliding down the other side of 2025. The year is half over plus a couple of days. How has this year worked out for you and for those you love? Has it been a good year thus far?

I know some folks who are struggling with hanging on to their hope. There are hopeless situations being lived by folks we see and know. They might not say anything about it, but on the inside hopelessness is like a darkness extinguishing any light coming into their life. Perhaps you are overwhelmed with a sense of hopelessness.

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” And hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” (Romans 5: 3-5)

This story will help.

In an art gallery, a tour group stood before a painting titled “Checkmate” by Friedrich Moritz August Retzsch. The scene depicts a young man playing chess with the devil. The devil wears a smug grin, convinced he’s won. The young man looks defeated—his soul seemingly lost in this symbolic match.

The story goes that one man stood and stared at the painting as his tour group moved into a different room. After counting heads, the tour guide noted a missing guest. He backtracked and found the man intensely staring at the work of art. The man told the tour guide, “They need to rename this painting.”

The man viewing the painting was a chess master.

He said, “It’s not checkmate. The king has one more move!”

In every situation in your life, in the life of a loved one, King Jesus has one more move!

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Residents in DeSoto Parish should prepare for a mix of sunshine, heat, and scattered thunderstorms throughout the remainder of the week and into the weekend, according to the latest forecast.

Wednesday:
Showers and thunderstorms are likely, especially after 4 p.m. The day will be partly sunny with a high near 89°F. Winds will be light from the southwest around 5 mph. There’s a 70% chance of precipitation, with new rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Wednesday Night:
Showers and thunderstorms remain likely, mainly before 7 p.m. The evening will be mostly cloudy with a low around 73°F. Winds will continue from the southwest at 5 mph. Rain chances drop slightly to 60%.

Thursday:
Expect mostly sunny skies with a high near 91°F. There’s a 50% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms, beginning after 1 p.m.

Thursday Night:
Partly cloudy skies and a low near 74°F.

Friday:
A mostly sunny and hot day is expected, with highs reaching near 94°F. A slight 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms is possible in the afternoon.

Friday Night:
Mostly clear with a low around 74°F.

Weekend Outlook:
Saturday:
Hot and sunny, with a high near 94°F. There’s a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m.

Saturday Night:
Mostly clear and warm with a low near 75°F.

Sunday:
A 30% chance of showers and storms continues. Expect mostly sunny skies and a high near 94°F.

Sunday Night:
Partly cloudy with an overnight low around 75°F.

Looking Ahead to Monday:
The week begins with continued heat and a 30% chance of thunderstorms. Expect mostly sunny conditions with temperatures climbing to a high near 96°F.

Stay weather-aware as scattered thunderstorms may bring periods of heavy rain, lightning, and brief wind gusts.

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Mike was nervous. He was among many guests including Steven Spielberg and Bob Zemeckis who flew to England to meet Princess Diana at a film premier. While they waited in the reception area, the chief of royal protocol prepped the group for their formal introduction. Mike, a Canadian, grew more nervous with each passing minute because he was going to meet his future Queen. This was years before Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s divorce. Mike felt out of place in his starched, rented tuxedo, but he was excited to meet the princess. He began to sweat. While he waited, he quickly downed some beers to calm his nerves. Mike did not get drunk, but drunkenness is not the only consequence of poorly timed beer intake.

Mike stood in the receiving line and watched as Princess Diana spoke briefly with those ahead of him. He kept going over the dos and don’ts in his head as the chief of royal protocol had instructed. He planned to follow the protocols to a tee. He thought the princess looked stunning in her blue silk gown and pearl and diamond jewelry. When it was his turn, Mike spoke briefly with Princess Diana. He had planned to compliment her on her outfit, but in the moment, it slipped his mind. They spoke briefly and she moved on.

Mike was relieved that the receiving line was done. The next task was to sit back, relax, and watch the film. The ushers escorted the royal party to their seats, then came back for the others. Mike had expected to sit at least a row or two behind the royal party. He almost went into cardiac arrest when the usher led him to his seat right beside Princess Diana. Mike thought to himself, “except for the fact that she’s married and is the Princess of Wales, this is practically a date.” Mike could not believe his luck, then he began to sweat again. Before the film began, Princess Diana made small talk with Mike. According to the rules set forth by the chief of royal protocol, Mike could not initiate conversation with the princess, but he could respond; Mike could not rise from his seat until she did; and he could never, ever turn his back toward her. Those rules kept going through his mind.

Finally, the film began. Mike thought he could finally relax, well, as much as one could sitting next to Princess Diana. Just as the film’s opening credits appeared on screen, it hit him. Mike felt the sudden and unmistakable pressure of a full bladder brought on by the beers he drank to calm his anxiety at meeting Princess Diana. “I was a hostage to etiquette,” he said later. He knew Princess Diana would be too polite to speak during the film. What would he say if she did? He could not stand before the princess, and there was no reason for her to stand. Even if she did rise, Mike would have to back away from Princess Diana down the crowded row of royals and other guests. That would not work, either. Mike considered the one other alternative but thought that would have been worse than breaking all the other protocols combined. Mike had no choice but to hold it. He recalled that his “fantasy date with a princess turned into two of the most excruciating hours of my life.” Princess Diana never knew about the dilemma as she watched the premier of “Back to the Future” while sitting beside Mike…Michael J. Fox.

Source: Michael J. Fox, Luck Man: a Memoir, (Hyperion, 2002),99-100.

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On this day in 1979, NASA’s Voyager 2 spacecraft made its closest approach to Jupiter, beaming back the first detailed images of the gas giant and its moons—revolutionizing our understanding of the outer solar system.

Launched in August 1977, Voyager 2 was the second of two spacecraft sent to take advantage of a rare planetary alignment that would allow them to visit multiple outer planets using gravitational assists. While its twin, Voyager 1, would later make headlines for its dramatic flybys of Jupiter and Saturn, Voyager 2 was the first to visit all four of the outer planets: Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.

Voyager 2’s encounter with Jupiter on July 9, 1979, was its first major planetary flyby. The spacecraft passed just 400,000 miles from the planet’s cloud tops, capturing high-resolution photos of its turbulent atmosphere, iconic Great Red Spot, and faint ring system—an unexpected discovery at the time. Even more astonishing were the images of Jupiter’s moons.

Scientists were stunned by what they saw. Instead of lifeless, cratered rocks, Jupiter’s four largest moons—Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto—emerged as complex and dynamic worlds. Most notably, Voyager 2 revealed that Io, one of Jupiter’s innermost moons, was dotted with active volcanoes, making it the most geologically active body in the solar system.

The discovery of volcanic activity on Io was groundbreaking. It was the first time active volcanism had ever been observed on a celestial body beyond Earth. This single finding reshaped scientific theories about moon formation and planetary geology and sparked new interest in studying planetary systems beyond our own.

Voyager 2 also helped confirm that Europa, another of Jupiter’s moons, had a smooth, icy surface—hinting at the possibility of a subsurface ocean. Today, that hint has become a driving focus in the search for extraterrestrial life, with upcoming missions like NASA’s Europa Clipper designed to explore that very possibility.

The success of the Voyager flyby wasn’t just scientific—it was deeply human. For many watching in 1979, the images transmitted across nearly half a billion miles of space were a powerful reminder of what humanity could achieve. The flyby was broadcast on television, published in newspapers worldwide, and discussed in classrooms, inspiring a new generation of scientists, engineers, and dreamers.

Since that day, Voyager 2 has continued its journey outward. It went on to visit Saturn in 1981, Uranus in 1986, and Neptune in 1989—becoming the only spacecraft to have visited the latter two planets. In 2018, more than 40 years after its launch, Voyager 2 exited the heliosphere and entered interstellar space. It continues to send back data to Earth, powered by a small nuclear generator and guided by technology developed in the 1970s.

Today, on July 9, we celebrate not only a milestone in space exploration but also the curiosity, collaboration, and courage that made it possible. Voyager 2’s flyby of Jupiter forever changed the way we see our solar system—not just as a collection of distant orbs, but as a vibrant, dynamic neighborhood filled with wonder.

As NASA prepares for the next era of planetary exploration, including missions to the outer planets’ moons and the continued search for life, the legacy of Voyager 2 lives on—still flying, still exploring, and still inspiring.

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Curtis Leonard Dunn, Jr.
May 24, 1947 — July 3, 2025
Visitation: Wednesday, July 9 at 10:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home
Services: will follow the visitation at noon.

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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North DeSoto Middle School (NDMS) standout quarterback Mason was selected among the nation’s elite to compete at the esteemed Football University (FBU) Top Gun Showcase, held June 20–22 in Naples, Florida.

The invite-only Showcase is the most competitive three-day national event for middle and high school players, designed to test position-specific skills and athletic performance.

Mason joined approximately 60 quarterbacks from across the country in the Class of 2030 division, demonstrating his talent against top-tier competition .

During the event, athletes participated in a blend of drills including 1-on-1, 4-on-3, run game, and 7-on-7 sessions, guided by coaches with combined NFL and NCAA experience. National evaluators from organizations such as 247Sports, the UC Report, and QB Hit List were present, providing visibility to thousands of college programs.

The FBU Top Gun Showcase not only offers elite training but also serves as a springboard to future opportunities: awards include invitations to marquee events like the Navy National Combine, the FBU Freshman All‑American Bowl, and the UA Next 8th Grade Game.

Mason’s invitation and participation highlight his exceptional ability and potential. The Class of 2030 division reportedly sold out, underscoring the level of competition at the Showcase.

Congratulations to Mason for representing NDMS and Claiborne Parish on this national stage. The community looks forward to watching his continued growth and future football successes.

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DeSoto Parish is gearing up for one of its most anticipated summer celebrations—the Annual Warren Family Memorial Fireworks Show and Fourth of July Festival—set for Friday, July 4 from 4-10 PM on the scenic banks of the Sabine River in Logansport.

This free community event, sponsored by DeSoto Parish Fire District #1, promises a vibrant mix of family-friendly fun, live music, and patriotic flair. Guests are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs or blankets and settle in for a relaxing evening by the water.

Live Entertainment & Music
Enjoy an upbeat atmosphere with DJ music and live performances by Megan Gutermuth, who will be singing a selection of patriotic songs to honor the spirit of the holiday.

Delicious Local Eats
Festival-goers can indulge in a variety of crowd-favorite dishes from food vendors including E & J Seafood. Options include:

Crawfish and shrimp plates
Barbecue
Corn dogs
Funnel cakes
Snow cones
Fresh-squeezed lemonade
and much more!

Fireworks Show After Dark
The highlight of the night will be the fireworks display, lighting up the Sabine River after dark in a dazzling tribute to Independence Day.

Bonus: It’s a Friday!
With the Fourth of July falling on a Friday this year, there’s no rush to get home early for work. Guests can enjoy a stress-free evening filled with memories, laughter, and community pride.

Whether you’re local to DeSoto Parish or just visiting, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Celebrate freedom, family, and fun at the Fourth of July Festival in Logansport—where tradition meets good times on the river.

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Residents of DeSoto Parish are invited to attend a Diabetes Support Meeting on Thursday, June 19 at 12:30 PM at the DeSoto Extension Office, located at 10117 Highway 171 in Grand Cane. Hosted by the LSU AgCenter in collaboration with MLK Health Center & Pharmacy, this free event aims to educate and empower individuals affected by diabetes, as well as those looking to take preventative steps toward healthier living.

The meeting will introduce participants to the upcoming Diabetes Prevention Program and the Diabetes Self-Management Education Series, both led by a registered dietitian. These evidence-based programs are designed to help individuals understand their diagnosis, manage blood sugar levels, prevent complications, and adopt sustainable lifestyle changes.

According to the CDC, over 38 million Americans have diabetes, with nearly 1 in 5 unaware of their condition. Type 2 diabetes continues to rise in rural areas like DeSoto Parish, making education and prevention programs critical for improving community health outcomes.

What to Expect:

Expert-led discussions on diabetes prevention and management
Nutrition and lifestyle guidance tailored to individuals living with or at risk for diabetes
An opportunity to ask questions, receive support, and connect with local resources
The event is open to the public, and no prior registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to bring friends or family members who may benefit from the information.

For more details, contact Erin Stockton, Nutrition Agent for the LSU AgCenter, at 318-872-0533 or via email at estockton@agcenter.lsu.edu.

Together, we can make strides toward a healthier DeSoto Parish—one step, one meal, and one conversation at a time.

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If adventure had an arch-nemesis, it would be my traveling companion: Mr. Excuses. Not a superhero, mind you, unless you consider dodging joy a superpower. His real name is Dave, but I’ve dubbed him Mr. Excuses after surviving five trips together—if “surviving” includes getting stranded at a gas station in Kentucky because “I thought I packed the map.”

Traveling with Mr. Excuses is an experience of lowering expectations and elevating blood pressure. Planning a trip with him is like trying to schedule lunch with a squirrel—evasive, erratic, and occasionally involves acorns.

We once decided to go camping in the Smokies. I was thrilled. Fresh air, starry skies, bears that hopefully minded their own business. But Mr. Excuses texted me the night before: “Can’t go unless my asthmatic cat gets approval from her spiritual healer.” Spoiler: The cat doesn’t exist. Neither does the healer. But you can’t argue with metaphysical pet care.

When we finally did hit the road, he showed up two hours late because “my socks didn’t match the energy of this trip.” The energy? It was 7 a.m. and we were driving a 2008 Honda Civic with a busted speaker.

You’d think the open road would calm his chaos. Nope. Within the first hour he had already claimed:

He forgot his sunglasses (“Light sensitivity—it’s real.”)

The GPS gave him motion sickness (“Maps just know too much.”)

We should stop for “authentic local pastries,” which, in central Alabama, turned out to be stale gas station donuts and regret.

Hotels? Mr. Excuses doesn’t do hotels. “The linens have been slept in by too many vibes.” So, he insists on Airbnb. The one he picked in Nashville was a lovely cardboard box behind a barbecue joint with a “rustic aroma.” I believe the French call that eau de brisket and raccoon.

Dining with him is a performance art piece. At every restaurant, he invents a new dietary restriction. Gluten-free on Monday, lactose-intolerant by Tuesday, fruit-phobic by Wednesday. Once he insisted on ordering “just steam” at a seafood place. “With essence of shrimp, but none of the commitment.”

Still, for all the delays, detours, and deeply spiritual cats, I must admit: the man is entertaining. Sure, he’s a logistical nightmare wrapped in a riddle and dipped in confusion, but life’s a little brighter when Mr. Excuses is around. He adds a dash of absurdity to every itinerary. Plus, his ability to explain away anything could be weaponized in high-stakes diplomacy. Or at least used to get out of jury duty.

So, would I travel with him again? Absolutely. As long as I drive, plan the trip, manage the budget, carry both our suitcases, and bring emergency donuts. Because when the world gives you lemons, Mr. Excuses will likely cite citrus sensitivity and demand you exchange them for mangoes.

We all know Mr. Excuses, let’s avoid being that person.

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BATON ROUGE (June 16, 2025)- As fireworks stands open across Louisiana for the 2025 Fourth of July season, the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFM) is reminding residents to stay safe and informed when celebrating with fireworks.

More than 600 retail fireworks stands are permitted statewide, with sales allowed through 11:59 p.m. on July 5th. Louisiana law requires all wholesale and retail fireworks sellers to be properly licensed by the SFM and to operate only in areas where fireworks are legally allowed.

While public fireworks shows remain the safest option, if you choose to purchase fireworks, make sure you’re buying from a licensed and permitted vendor. Don’t hesitate to ask to see their permit. Suspicious or illegal sales can be reported to the SFM at 1-800-256-5452 or online at http://www.lasfm.org.
Fireworks Safety Tips:

Keep fireworks at least 200 feet from buildings, vehicles, and flammable debris

Never let children handle fireworks; offer safe alternatives like glow sticks

Avoid using fireworks if impaired by alcohol or drugs

Light one firework at a time and monitor with a hose or bucket of water nearby

Soak used fireworks before disposal—never toss them dry into the trash

Check for local burn bans or dry conditions before using fireworks. Always choose a safe, open space for detonation.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 200 people per day are treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries around Independence Day. Don’t become a statistic—celebrate safely!

For more information or to report concerns, visit http://www.lasfm.org.

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When it comes to local sports coverage, the experts say you can’t do better than what you get for free in your favorite Online Journal publication.

The experts are out-of-state sports media who judged entries in the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s annual Writing Contest. Results from this summer’s contest, which included content produced in the calendar 2024 year, were announced Sunday during the LSWA’s Awards Brunch in Natchitoches.

As coaches say, statistics don’t lie. The numbers point out the tremendous value Journal readers get with top-caliber content on their local teams as well as compelling state and national topics.

The Shreveport-Bossier Journal sports team – editor/writer Doug Ireland, and writers John James Marshall, Ron Higgins, Teddy Allen and Tony Taglavore – produced more award-winning entries than any other single-market news media outlet In Louisiana, and it wasn’t close.

The SBJ team was rewarded with 18 LSWA recognitions, including some of the top honors in the contest. No other single-market media entity had more than 10.

Adding in awards won by the staff (Malcolm Butler, Kyle Roberts and Reggie McLeroy) at the Lincoln Parish Journal and columnist Bob Tompkins in the Rapides Parish Journal, the Online Journals’ LSWA contest haul was 24 honors. That was on pace with the collective total of the closest competition, which had four outlets that received a combined 24 recognitions.

Journal writers received some of the contest’s top honors, headed by Ireland earning the LSWA’s Sports Writer of the Year award after he earned recognition in eight different categories. He previously won the honor in 1987 for the Alexandria Town Talk before shifting into the athletic media relations profession and not returning to sports writing until 2021.

Marshall was named the LSWA’s Prep Writer of the Year for his high school sports coverage in the SBJ.

Journal writers took home first and second in the state Columnist of the Year in Class II (circulation below 10,000 daily) with Tompkins winning the award while Butler was the runner-up in that category. Butler was also named runnerup for the Class II Prep Writer of the Year for the second straight year.

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By Steve Graf    

Welcome to 2025 and the information highway known as the internet. Here a person can explore, search, and check vast amounts of useful and useless content. There’s literally nothing a person can’t find on the worldwide web. But for bass fishermen, it’s also an unlimited source of information that can help an angler understand any body of water with just a few clicks.

But the word “information” can be a tricky term for tournament anglers. In some cases, you might say it’s a dirty word and can get a tournament angler in a lot of trouble. Bass tournaments have a plethora of rules that can boggle the mind of the intelligent.

How, where, and from whom the angler gets his tournament info is critical to being able to pass a polygraph test. This is a test given at the end of a tournament in which an angler is asked a series of questions pertaining to the rules of a particular tournament circuit.

Not all tournament trails are the same and each one may have a few rules that might not apply to another trail. For example, the rules for team trails will be a little different than those of an individual pro circuit in which the angler fishes by himself.

But of all the rules in the tournament world, the “no information” rule might be the most abused, as there tends to be too much grey area depending on how the rule is written. It’s similar to the Bible in that it can be open to interpretation.

It’s also the rule that anglers tend to bend or break as they search for anything that can help them win a bass tournament. Some circuits do not allow anglers to talk to anyone or receive information about tournament waters from someone who is not in the event.

For example, hiring or calling a lake guide during the dead water period can be a major no-no; and yet they do it anyway and feel they can pass the polygraph no matter what. Everyone is OK until the day comes when the tournament director calls their name to take a polygraph test.

One thing I’ve been seeing on the high school level for years is how parents or boat captains are hiring full-time fishing guides, not to teach them how to find fish, but showing them where fish are! This is not helping these youngsters to learn anything. In fact, it’s handicapping them for future success!

Look, we all want our kids to succeed, but wouldn’t it be better if they did it on their own and not because the parents had the money to hire the best guide on the lake? What lessons are we teaching these young anglers by doing that?

The best advice I can give all the up-and-coming high school and college anglers is to learn to find fish on your own. Don’t rely on a guide or another buddy for information. It’s much more gratifying when you win with fish YOU found rather than just catching another angler’s fish.

Always remember, it’s not easy catching another angler’s fish. Never rely on other’s fishing information because it’s usually old and unreliable. The reports you read, even on the internet, are more often than not two to three days old. When bass fishing, a lot can change in two or three days.

Learn to trust yourself and your ability to locate schools of fish on your own. Because in the end, tournament fishing is all about you versus the fish, not you versus the other anglers.

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Baton Rouge- The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has confirmed Louisiana’s first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) of the 2025 mosquito season and urges all Louisianans to protect themselves from mosquito bites. This case was confirmed in an individual from Livingston Parish who was hospitalized due to complications from the infection. To protect patient confidentiality, no further information about the patient will be released.

About 1 in 150 people who are infected with WNV develop a severe illness that can affect the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, which may even cause paralysis or death.

West Nile virus has been actively spreading throughout Louisiana since its first detection in the state in 2002. To date in 2025, WNV activity has been confirmed in 14 parishes. In 2024, there were 57 confirmed human cases of WNV in Louisiana, including three deaths.

West Nile virus

West Nile virus is spread to people by mosquitoes and can cause mild to severe illnesses. While most people infected with West Nile virus develop no symptoms, about 20% of infected people develop West Nile fever. West Nile fever is a flu-like illness with symptoms that can include fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, and rashes.

A small percentage of infected people develop West Nile neuroinvasive disease, a severe illness that affects the central nervous system and can result in hospitalization or even death. Symptoms can include high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, muscle weakness, numbness, coma, and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks and carry the risk of death or permanent damage.

It is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites to prevent illness. People 55 years of age and older and people with certain medical conditions are at a greater risk for severe disease if they are infected.

Tips to protect yourself against mosquitoes

Wear EPA-registered mosquito repellent outdoors and always follow label instructions.
Apply repellent on exposed skin only. Do not apply under clothing or on broken skin.
Carry a travel-size repellent if you will be outdoors for an extended period.
Apply sunscreen first, insect repellent second, if you are also wearing sunscreen.
Make sure windows are tight-fitting and screens are free of holes to keep mosquitoes out.

Tips to protect your home from mosquitoes
Eliminate standing water around your home, which is where mosquitoes breed.
Turn over wheelbarrows, plastic wading pools, buckets, trash cans, children’s toys, and anything that can collect standing water.
Quickly discard or store any containers around your home to avoid accumulating water. Drill holes in standing containers to drain water quickly.
Clean roof gutters routinely. Clogged gutters can produce millions of mosquitoes annually.
Take steps to prevent water gardens and ornamental pools from stagnating (and becoming major mosquito producers), such as adding fish or aeration.
Clean bird baths weekly, as changing the water keeps it from stagnating and becoming a breeding area for mosquitoes.
Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, especially if they go unused. Be aware that mosquitoes also breed in water accumulated on pool covers.
Install or repair window screens.

Visit the CDC online for more tips on preventing mosquito-borne diseases.

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By Brad Dison

During what has become known as the Battle of France in World War II, German troops had surrounded more than 338,000 allied troops on the beaches and harbor of Dunkirk in northern France. The soldiers had retreated to the sea and could retreat no further. The Germans were preparing to slaughter them. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill considered this the greatest military defeat in centuries and struggled to find a solution. Time was of the essence. With each passing hour, the outcome looked more grim. At Churchill’s request, the British Navy requisitioned more than 850 “little ships” which consisted of family yachts, lifeboats, fishing vessels, sailing barges, fire boats, paddle steamers, river launches, and just about anything else that could float to help in the evacuation codenamed Operation Dynamo. Some of the boats were taken under protest. Others were taken without permission. In some cases, the boat owners were unaware that their boats were taken until the operation was over.

One boat owner, 66-year-old chicken farmer Charles Lightoller, refused to allow the Navy to take his 52-foot converted Admiralty steam pinnace called Sundowner. Charles, a retired sea captain himself who was twice awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery, declared that he would captain Sundowner himself. He insisted that his ship would be crewed by his oldest son, 33-year-old Robert Lightoller, and 18-year-old sea scout Gerald Ashcroft. Charles was no stranger to danger. He had survived the sinking of two ships during World War I, and rammed and sank a German U-boat, UB-110, with his destroyer HMS Garry. Charles’s ship was so badly damaged during the ramming that he had to steer it 160 miles to safety in reverse. The Royal Navy knew of his seamanship and agreed to his request. Captain Charles and his crew left the harbor at Ramsgate, England for Dunkirk.

Although Sundowner was licensed to carry just 21 passengers, Captain Charles loaded his ship with sailors. One survivor wrote a letter to Charles’s widow, Sylvia, after his death in 1952. He told her that he “looked over the stern while your husband stowed the soldiers below in every corner it was possible to stow one. Only your late husband’s knowledge of the Channel and his seamanship brought the boat right back into Ramsgate harbour.” For nine days in May and June 1940, hundreds of “little ships” including Charle’s Sundowner, evacuated more than 338,000 stranded allied soldiers from the beaches and harbor of Dunkirk, France.

Charles, the captain of the little ship who saved 139 lives during the evacuation of Dunkirk, is mostly remembered as the second officer of what was once the largest ship afloat. Charles Lightoller was the last person off of and the most senior surviving officer of the Titanic.

Sources:

1. Daily Echo, May 31, 1990, p.7.

2. The Daily Telegraph, April 9, 2009, p.17.

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On July 2, 1964, a pivotal moment in American history unfolded as President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act into law. The landmark legislation marked a turning point in the nation’s long struggle for racial equality, outlawing discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin and putting an end to segregation in public places.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 came after years of intense activism, widespread civil unrest, and mounting pressure from civil rights leaders and organizations across the country. The legislation followed decades of Jim Crow laws in the South that enforced racial segregation and denied Black Americans equal access to education, employment, housing, and voting rights. While the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional, change was slow and often met with violence.

The Civil Rights Act sought to provide a comprehensive response. Among its key provisions, the law banned segregation in schools, restaurants, theaters, and other public accommodations. It authorized the federal government to enforce desegregation, allowed the Justice Department to intervene in cases of racial discrimination, and established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to address workplace discrimination.

The bill’s passage was hard-won. It faced strong opposition in Congress, including a 60-day filibuster in the Senate—the longest in U.S. history at that time. But a bipartisan coalition ultimately came together to break the filibuster and pass the legislation, signaling a shift in national attitudes and a growing commitment to civil rights.

For many Americans, the signing of the Civil Rights Act was more than a political act—it was a signal of hope. It followed the bravery of countless individuals who had marched, protested, and risked their lives for equality, from the Montgomery Bus Boycott to the Freedom Rides to the 1963 March on Washington.

Though the law did not instantly erase the systemic racism embedded in American society, it gave civil rights advocates new legal tools to challenge discriminatory practices and policies. It also laid the groundwork for future legislation, including the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Fair Housing Act of 1968.

Sixty years later, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 remains a foundational part of American law and a symbol of the country’s ongoing effort to live up to its ideals of justice and equality. July 2 serves as an opportunity not only to remember the moment the legislation became law but also to reflect on the courage of those who fought for change—and to consider the work that remains.

The anniversary stands as a reminder that progress is possible when voices are raised, coalitions are built, and the principles of fairness and dignity are defended.

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Michael “Mike” Troy McDonald
October 27, 1962 — June 28, 2025
Visitation: Thursday, July 3 at 10 a.m. at the Rose-Neath Funeral Home
Services: Thursday, July 3 at 11 a.m. at the Rose-Neath Funeral Home

Patricia Ann Smith
08/28/1956 – 06/26/2025
Visitation: Friday, July 4 from 2-6 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday, July 5 at 12 p.m. at Morning Star B.C.

Leslie B. Bates
06/12/1945 – 06/23/2025
Visitation: Friday, July 4 from 2-6 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday, July 5 at 11 a.m. Greater Elizabeth B.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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