The attached report displays all individuals charged over the last 7 days, including those arrested by summons who may not have been booked directly into the Detention Center. The attached arrests have been made by DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO), Mansfield Police Department (MPD), and Louisiana State Police (LSP.) An arrest is indication that probable cause existed during an alleged offense. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Comments are disabled on crime related posts to ensure public safety.

A major multi-agency law enforcement training event was held in DeSoto Parish, as Sheriff Jayson Richardson hosted Mr. Phillip Groff of VIGR Training LLC at the DeSoto Sheriff Training Center in Grand Cane.

Representatives from law enforcement agencies across Louisiana—including the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, Monroe Police Department, Louisiana State Police, Shreveport Police Department, Thibodaux Police Department, and the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office—converged for a specialized training course focused on Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), firearms proficiency, and life-saving response maneuvers.

The advanced program is designed to enhance tactical readiness, improve coordinated response strategies, and strengthen relationships among regional agencies. Sheriff Richardson emphasized the importance of continuous training, noting that collaboration and preparedness are essential to maintaining public safety.

“This training represents our mutual commitment to excellence in law enforcement,” Richardson said. “By working side-by-side with our neighboring agencies, we ensure that our communities receive the highest level of protection and emergency response.”

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Despite the federal government’s refusal to use emergency funds to send out federal food aid, Louisiana residents remain hopeful that they will receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, better known as food stamps, in the first few days of November.

The optimism comes from Governor Jeff Landry asking the state legislature to authorize $150 million of state money to subsidize Louisiana SNAP benefits for November, after declaring a state of emergency to fund the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

However, Landry specifically asked that distribution be from November 1 through November 4, and limited the funds to go to children, the elderly, and disabled people, which make up a majority — but not all — of Louisiana SNAP recipients.

The state legislature, which is in an unrelated special session, unanimously passed the measure (97-0) on Friday, October 24th, and now the issue is with the Senate, which is expected to take up the matter on Wednesday, October 29th. Confident that the resolution will pass, Governor Landry has scheduled a new conference for Wednesday at 2:00 pm to address the situation. 

The decision carries great weight among Louisiana residents as it is estimated that nearly 800,000 people in Louisiana receive SNAP benefits. Of those roughly 565,000 are either children, the elderly, or disabled. 

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Over the past 10 years, DeSoto Parish Schools have experienced significant growth and achieved statewide recognition for excellence across multiple areas.

As the district prepares for the next chapter, voters will have the opportunity to decide on renewing the current millages that fund essential school operations, including teacher salaries, daily operating expenses, and other vital programs that support students’ education.

Election Day is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 15, with early voting beginning Saturday, Nov. 1.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about the millage renewals and how to participate in the upcoming vote by visiting DeSoto Parish Schools’ official website.

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By Steve Graf    

(Part II)

Today we’ll continue our thoughts on the state of professional bass fishing and where it’s headed. Like the old saying goes, “Nothing lasts forever,” and I worry that the sponsorship or business side of fishing is getting tougher and more complicated as companies are now looking hard at how they spend their advertising dollars.

Today’s anglers are fighting among themselves for a much smaller piece of the pie while the amount of sponsorship dollars has dwindled. It’s becoming more difficult for anglers to land sponsors who have now decided to tighten their belts with regards to advertisement.

It’s Business 101, all about ROI (return on investment) as sponsors are no longer passing out money like candy. Companies have gotten more conservative on how much money they are willing to pay an angler to represent them. They’re also no longer hiring as many anglers to be a part of their marketing teams as they have in the past.

Company marketing plans have changed and this all started when the old FLW Tour went under in 2019, followed in 2021 when FLW was absorbed by MLF (Major League Fishing). This has changed the landscape of professional bass fishing as anglers try to make a living.

Recently with a smaller market of sponsors for anglers to choose from, along with a tight economy, professional anglers are having to look at other ways to raise money in order to support their families, pay for entry fees and travel expenses. It has slowly become the land of the haves and the have nots.

By that I mean, if you have money or come from money, you stand a better chance of making it as a professional angler than someone who is strapped for dollars, sleeping in their truck, and fishing for pay checks.

The older generation of anglers who have helped make the sport what it is today are now being phased out by a younger generation that requires less money to sponsor.

Let me explain. For years companies would hire professional anglers to do commercials and promote different products they offer. But as social media began to take hold, companies started turning to the younger generation due to their social media skills and their ability to navigate the web.

The difference between the older generation of anglers and the younger ones is that companies were having to pay a substantial amount of money to the older guys. The younger anglers, who are very social media savvy, are less demanding and will do promotions for pennies on the dollar or maybe a product exchange.

This has changed the landscape for how professional anglers can make a living. Companies today want anglers who understand the dynamics of social media, can sell a product, and have good communication skills. Just winning tournaments is not enough any longer.

So where is all of this headed? Is the future dream of being a professional bass fisherman still a reality? Major League Fishing has recently cut the number of anglers in its circuit down from 65 to 51, eliminating 15 anglers!

This of course helps with distribution of the so-called pie as there are now less anglers trying to lock down sponsors. I personally believe that anglers are going to have to reach out to sponsors that are not related to the fishing world like the FLW Tour did back in the early 2000s.

FLW did an excellent job of bringing in companies like Tide, Snickers, Land of Lakes, Castrol Oil, Kellogg’s and Walmart. They basically followed the same marketing plan as NASCAR by reaching out to non-endemic sponsors.

Being a professional bass angler is a great way to make a living and a dream for so many! Currently, there are a lot of questions as to what direction professional bass fishing is headed.

But there’s one thing that has remained constant in this profession. Young anglers today face the same challenges that the older generation faced — how to make money and provide for their families!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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I-20 construction has become an exercise in enduring a spiritual test. Those of headed west from Ruston or east to Ruston must face the challenge of merging into one lane around the construction. It is maddening. It is also instructive.

Let us begin with a confession: merging onto the interstate in Louisiana is not for the faint of heart. It is a spiritual exercise in chaos theory, a test of faith, and occasionally, a near-death experience. One might say it resembles the early church—passionate, unpredictable, and occasionally in need of divine intervention.

Contrast this with the Northwest, where merging is a liturgy. Drivers there glide like synchronized swimmers in a baptismal pool of asphalt. They signal. They yield. They make space. It’s as if they’ve read Romans 12:10—“Outdo one another in showing honor”—and applied it to traffic patterns.

But what if merging isn’t just about traffic? What if it’s a metaphor for fellowship?

In the church, we speak often of “fellowship,” that sacred mingling of souls in potluck lines and small group gatherings. But true fellowship—like merging—isn’t just proximity. It’s intentional movement toward one another. It’s the art of adjusting speed, checking blind spots, and sometimes braking for someone who’s still figuring out their spiritual GPS.

Consider the Apostle Paul. He was a master merger. One moment he’s persecuting Christians, the next he’s writing half the New Testament and hosting small groups in Philippi. He didn’t just join the faith; he merged into it—yielding to grace, accelerating toward purpose, and signaling his transformation with every epistle.

In merging, as in fellowship, timing is everything. Too fast, and you risk colliding. Too slow, and you cause confusion. The church, too, must learn this rhythm. We must make space for the hesitant, the wounded, the ones still figuring out which lane they belong in. We must resist the urge to honk our theological horns or tailgate someone into conformity.

And let us not forget the sacred blinker. In traffic, it’s a sign of intention. In fellowship, it’s vulnerability. It says, “I’m trying to join you. I’m not perfect, but I’m coming alongside.” The church thrives when we honor the blinker—when we respond not with suspicion, but with grace.

Of course, there are spiritual roadblocks. Pride. Judgment. The occasional congregant who drives a theological monster truck and refuses to yield. But even these can be navigated with patience and prayer. After all, Jesus merged with humanity itself—God taking on flesh, signaling love, and entering our lane with humility.

So next time you’re on the interstate, and a fellow Louisianan or visiting Texan barrels down the ramp like they’re auditioning for a Fast & Furious sequel, take a breath. Remember that merging is messy. Fellowship is, too. But both are holy.

Because in the end, the church is not a convoy of perfect drivers. It’s a caravan of grace—bumper to bumper, blinker to blinker, learning to merge our lives into one body, one Spirit, one glorious journey toward the Kingdom.

And if all else fails, just wave. It’s the universal sign of fellowship. Even in traffic.

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By Nutrition Agent Erin Stockton

One of the most pressing health challenges facing children today is childhood obesity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 5 children in the United States is affected by obesity. This condition not only impacts physical health but can also affect emotional well-being, self-esteem, and academic performance.

Childhood obesity is linked to serious health risks such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and joint problems. However, the good news is that small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Families, schools, and communities all play an important role in helping children build healthy habits that last a lifetime.

What Can Families Do?

Encourage healthy eating: Offer fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and limit sugary drinks and snacks.
Be active together: Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Activities like walking, biking, dancing, or playing ball can be both fun and healthy.
Limit screen time: Encourage children to spend less time on phones, tablets, and television, and more time being physically active or engaging in creative play.
Set sleep routines: Getting good sleep can prevent problems related to health and behavior.
Model healthy habits: Children learn best by example. When parents and caregivers make nutritious food choices and stay active, children are more likely to do the same.
What Can Communities Do?

Schools, community organizations, and local programs can support families by offering nutrition education, safe spaces for physical activity, and access to healthier food choices. Programs such as school gardens, cooking classes, and youth sports leagues help encourage children to make healthier decisions and feel supported along the way. Childhood obesity is not a challenge that families face alone, it’s a community issue. By working together, we can help children grow up healthy, strong, and confident.

MyPlate Munch Trail Mix

Includes all 5 food groups: Fruits, Vegetables, Grains, Protein, Dairy

Ingredients:

½ cup cubed cheese (Dairy)
1 banana, sliced and freeze-dried or dried (Fruit)
½ cup dried apple slices (Fruit)
¼ cup freeze-dried blueberries (Fruit)
½ cup baby carrots, sliced and oven-dried or dehydrated (Vegetable)
½ cup dry roasted unsalted peanuts (Protein)
1 cup whole wheat cereal (like toasted O’s or shredded wheat) (Grain)

Instructions:

-If not using pre-dried fruit or veggies, dehydrate banana slices, apple slices, blueberries, and carrot rounds until dry but chewy or crisp (use a dehydrator or bake on low heat).
-In a large bowl, gently mix all dried ingredients.
-Add cubed cheese right before serving or keep it separate in a cooler if packing for later.
-Portion into small containers or snack bags for an on-the-go treat!

Erin Stockton is a Nutrition Agent with the LSU AgCenter in DeSoto and Natchitoches Parishes. A certified educator for over 20 years, she provides research-based programs to help families make healthy food choices and stay active. For program requests or questions, contact her at 318-872-0533, estockton@agcenter.lsu.edu, or on Facebook at LSU AgCenter DeSoto and Natchitoches Nutrition & Community Health.

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When Melvin James Kiminsky was entering his senior year in high school in 1944, he took the Army Specialized Training Reserve Program test, an assessment to determine intelligence and comprehension. Melvin did so well on the aptitude test that Army recruiters sent him to Virginia Military Institute to study electrical engineering. Melvin, who had spent his whole life in New York City, was surrounded by “mountain ranges, red clay, a lot of horses, and statues of Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee.” At VMI, he was taught to ride a horse, wield a saber, do close-order drill, and electrical engineering. Then, he was transferred to Fort Sill, Oklahoma to work on a field artillery team whose main weapon was a 105mm cannon. The Army failed to provide hearing protection, so Melvin began tearing the filters off of Camel cigarettes and sticking those in his ears. He quipped, “my ears are still yellow to this day.”

In January 1945, Melvin was among hundreds of soldiers who were sent to Europe. He ended up on the front line between Sarreguemines, France, and Saarbrucken, Germany. Because he was classified as an engineer—his superiors overlooked the fact that he was an electrical engineer and not a combat engineer—they gave him a bayonet and told him to probe for mines. Melvin thought the order was absurd, but he was instructed to insert his bayonet into the ground at a shallow angle to avoid pressing the detonator which was normally triggered by pressure from directly above. After a while, Melvin joined a team with the 1104thcombat engineers who had to erect a Bailey bridge, a portable truss bridge, over a river which led into enemy territory defended by Nazis. The Bailey bridge was so light that they could swing it out over the river, but strong enough to support the weight of a crossing tank. Melvin was one of the first men who had to cross the bridge because he had to secure it to the other side. The ever-watchful Germans, angry that an American soldier would soon be coming onto their side of the river, shouted warnings in German over a loudspeaker. Melvin grabbed a bullhorn and responded to the German soldiers but not by yelling threats. He sang a full rendition of the popular upbeat Broadway showtune “Toot, Toot, Tootsie (Goo’ Bye!)”

When he finished singing, he lowered the bullhorn. The men in his company stared at him in complete and confused silence. For a few moments, the German soldiers were also silent. Then, a few of the enemy soldiers began clapping and cheering. Neither the American soldiers nor the German soldiers understood the absurdity that had just occurred. Melvin understood the absurdity of the war and satirized it directly to soldiers on both sides of the conflict. For the past 80 years, Melvin Kiminsky has been entertaining the world in much the same way, with his own brand of absurd comedy. He is one of only 27 entertainers who have won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony award for his work on films such as “The Producers,” “Blazing Saddles,” “Young Frankenstein,” “Spaceballs,” and “Robin Hood: Men in Tights.” At 99 years old, he is currently producing and acting in “Spaceballs 2.” Kaminsky may not be a name you recognize. You see, early in his career, to eliminate his being confused with noted trumpet player Max Kaminsky, Melvin James Kaminsky began performing under the stage name Mel Brooks.

 

Source: “Mel Brooks on Fighting the Germans in World War II—Rare Interview!” TheTVTimeMachine, YouTube, March 3, 2024, https://youtu.be/xmJq2vvuPL4?si=e0Q3g1Zj8dwtBzyw.

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Walk through any hospital in Louisiana and there’s a good chance you’ll meet a nurse, technologist, or healthcare leader who began their journey at Northwestern State University. From Natchitoches to Shreveport, Alexandria, and Leesville, NSU has become one of the state’s most respected names in healthcare education.

Healthcare is changing quickly, and so are the demands on those who deliver it. Hospitals need more trained professionals. Patients need more access to care. Families need people who can lead with skill and compassion. For many in Louisiana, that career path begins at NSU’s College of Nursing and School of Allied Health.

“Our students come from every corner of Louisiana and every stage of life,” said Dr. Aimee Badeaux, Dean of the College of Nursing and School of Allied Health. “Some are high school graduates looking for their first step. Others are licensed professionals seeking to grow in their careers. What unites them is a commitment to helping others, and that’s something we know how to develop.”

NSU offers one of the most comprehensive selections of healthcare programs in the region. Students can choose from associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across nursing, radiologic sciences, and allied health.

Among the most popular options:

• Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) and LPN to ASN
• Military Medic/Paramedic to ASN — the only program of its kind in Louisiana, offered in Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Alexandria, and Leesville
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), RN to BSN, LPN to BSN, and Accelerated BSN (BS to BSN)
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with concentrations in Administration, Education, and multiple Nurse Practitioner tracks
• Doctoral-level Nurse Anesthesia, Executive Leadership, and Educational Leadership programs
• Bachelor and Master of Science in Radiologic Sciences — including the first Sonography program in North Louisiana
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Allied Health, with concentrations in Health Science & Technology and Health Sciences Leadership & Management

For working registered nurses, the RN to BSN program remains a top choice. The online format offers flexibility and affordability while maintaining a strong academic foundation.

“Many of our RN-BSN students are balancing full-time jobs and family commitments,” explained Dr. Greg Handel, Executive Vice President and Provost. “We built the program to meet them where they are. It’s affordable, accredited, and recognized nationally for quality.”

Students in NSU’s healthcare programs train in high-fidelity simulation laboratories that recreate real-world clinical settings. From emergency response to pediatric care, these labs allow students to practice critical skills in a safe environment before moving into hospitals and clinics.

Those partnerships with regional healthcare providers are another reason NSU graduates are in such high demand. Students complete clinical rotations with major hospitals, community clinics, and long-term care facilities throughout Louisiana, gaining the experience and confidence that employers look for.

“The hands-on training our students receive makes a real difference,” said Dr. Badeaux. “They graduate with practical skills and a sense of responsibility to their patients and communities.”

That preparation shows in the outcomes. NSU boasts NCLEX pass rates of 98% for ASN graduates and 96% for BSN graduates, consistently exceeding state and national averages.

The university has also earned top national recognition, including:

• #1 in Louisiana among Top Public Schools – U.S. News & World Report, 2026
• #1 Best Online Nursing Program – The Princeton Review, 2024
• #1 Best Nurse Practitioner and MSN Programs – NursePractitionerOnline.com and RegisteredNursing.org, 2025

In the past five years alone, Northwestern State has produced more registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and radiologic technologists than any other institution in the state.

Behind every successful graduate is a team of faculty who are both experienced clinicians and committed educators. With an average class size of 17, students receive the kind of personal attention that larger universities often can’t provide.

“Students succeed here because they’re known here,” said James T. Genovese, President of Northwestern State University. “We take pride in offering an environment where each student’s goals are understood, supported, and celebrated.”

As Louisiana’s population grows and healthcare needs become more complex, NSU continues to adapt. The university is expanding key programs to new sites, building stronger partnerships with hospitals, and investing in technology that enhances training and patient simulation.

Dr. Badeaux summarized it simply: “Every day, we’re educating the professionals who will care for our families tomorrow. That’s work we take seriously.”

For students and families exploring healthcare careers, Northwestern State University offers a trusted path — from the first day of class to the first day on the job. To learn more or connect with an advisor, visit www.nsula.edu/nursing.

Paid Content

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October 29, 1929—Black Tuesday—marked the collapse of the U.S. stock market and the beginning of the Great Depression. In a single day, billions of dollars evaporated, and a wave of panic swept the nation. But beyond the financial fallout, the event carried an eerie weight, as if Wall Street itself had been cursed.

In the days leading up to the crash, brokers and bankers worked in a frenzy, trying to keep the market afloat. When prices finally plummeted, chaos erupted. Eyewitnesses described men fainting, tearing up ledgers, and screaming in despair. Some investors, ruined in minutes, walked out of buildings and never returned home.

Newspapers at the time fueled the legend of desperate brokers leaping from skyscraper windows. While the number of suicides that day was exaggerated, there were enough tragedies in the weeks that followed to cement the image of Wall Street as a haunted district.

The “ghosts of Black Tuesday” lingered long after the crash. Families who lost everything often told stories of hearing phantom voices in their former offices or seeing apparitions of men in suits wandering near the Stock Exchange. Whether real hauntings or the product of grief, these tales captured the sense of loss that haunted a generation.

The Great Depression reshaped America. Breadlines, dust storms, and shuttered banks became the grim reality of the 1930s. Even today, economists and historians study October 29 as a turning point when prosperity gave way to hardship.

In New York, legends persist that certain offices on Wall Street are cursed. Night guards whisper of cold drafts, shadowy figures, and footsteps echoing through empty hallways long after business hours. For some, Black Tuesday isn’t just history—it’s a haunting.

Nearly a century later, October 29 remains a reminder of how quickly fortune can vanish, leaving behind only ghosts of ambition and despair.

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Carroll Sue Booker
11/13/1958 – 10/21/2025
Visitation: Friday October 31 from 2:00 -4:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Service : Saturday November 1, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Mansfield High School Gym

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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Baton Rouge – Governor Jeff Landry is warning all SNAP welfare cardholders that they will receive no new benefits on their cards starting Nov. 1 due to the federal government shutdown in Washington, DC. Any remaining benefits from previous months can still be used. Updated information will be available to all Louisiana residents through a new site https://dcshutdown.la.gov.

Hundreds of thousands of people in Louisiana receive SNAP welfare benefits. An update from the USDA this summer stated more than 16% of the population in Louisiana receives SNAP benefits.

“The U.S. Senate is failing to open the federal government in Washington, DC. SNAP benefits are paid for by the federal government in Washington, and we simply administer the program here in Louisiana. Without the funds we cannot provide the benefits. The U.S. House under Speaker Mike Johnson has already acted to re-open the government. Our U.S. Senators representing Louisiana have voted over and over again to re-open the government. They are doing their part. Now it is time for those U.S. Senators, under Democrat Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, to vote yes and re-open the federal government. Louisianans concerned about the lack of funds for this program, or any impacted federal service, should call on Chuck Schumer to re-open the federal government now,” said Governor Jeff Landry.

The Louisiana Department of Health which oversees the SNAP program in Louisiana will begin notifying recipients this week, based on available information, that November benefits will not be added to their cards until the federal government reopens. In addition, LDH is providing notices (Notice 1, Notice 2) which retailers can post on doorways and in their stores notifying recipients new funds will be unavailable.

“All Louisiana SNAP recipients should be aware that there will be no new benefits added to their cards starting November 1st unless the federal government in Washington, DC reopens,” said Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health Bruce D. Greenstein. “We will do all we can to ensure SNAP recipients are aware of this and that retailers are prepared as well. Updated information will be provided on the state’s new dcshutdown.la.gov website as soon as it is available.”

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Session Begins October 23, Runs Through November 13

Gov. Jeff Landry has called a special session of the Louisiana Legislature to convene October 23 and continue through November 13. The stated purpose is to consider revisions to the state’s election code, upcoming election dates and deadlines, and to ensure the 2026 election cycle proceeds smoothly—including authorization of any required funding.

A member of the State House of Representatives explained that lawmakers are awaiting a decision by the United States Supreme Court regarding Louisiana’s congressional redistricting map. That ruling, expected sometime in 2025, could require the state to redraw its districts.

The legislator said the upcoming special session provides an opportunity to align the election schedule and related technical provisions in advance of any possible court action. “We’re preparing the 2026 election framework under existing law,” the representative noted, “so that the state’s deadlines and procedures remain intact regardless of when the Court ultimately rules.”

Key Reasons for the Special Session

• Congressional map challenge: Louisiana’s current map contains two majority-Black districts, created under a prior federal court order. That plan remains under appeal for alleged racial gerrymandering.

• Potential need for redistricting: If the Supreme Court invalidates the map, the Legislature could be required to redraw districts, which might disrupt the 2026 election calendar.

• Preventing administrative chaos: Adjusting the election code, filing deadlines, and budget allocations now may help the state avoid confusion such as invalid ballots, missed qualification periods, or candidate uncertainty.

• Addressing unfinished business: Louisiana governors often use special sessions to handle measures that failed in the regular session or require timely attention before the next one convenes.

Implications

• If the Supreme Court overturns the current map, Louisiana will already have established updated timelines and procedures to reduce disruption.

• Redistricting debates could spark partisan conflict given the political stakes tied to district boundaries.

• Adjustments to deadlines could affect candidate qualifying, voter registration windows, and ballot preparation.

• Because special sessions are limited to items listed in the governor’s call, lawmakers will be restricted to election-related legislation rather than broader policy matters.

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The attached report displays all individuals charged over the last 7 days, including those arrested by summons who may not have been booked directly into the Detention Center. The attached arrests have been made by DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO), Mansfield Police Department (MPD), and Louisiana State Police (LSP.) An arrest is indication that probable cause existed during an alleged offense. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Comments are disabled on crime related posts to ensure public safety.

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of three individuals on multiple drug-related charges following investigations conducted by the Sheriff’s Street Level Interdiction Unit (SLIU). The arrests involved suspected possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS), firearms violations, and drug activity in the presence of minors.

All three suspects were booked into the DeSoto Parish Detention Center. The Sheriff’s Office reminds the public that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Date of Arrest: September 11, 2025
Suspect: Amy C. Allison
Age: 35
Residence: Keithville, Louisiana
Charges:
Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine)
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
License Plate Light Violation
Arrested by: DeSoto Parish SLIU

Date of Arrest: September 6, 2025
Suspect: Samuel H. Thomas
Age: 34
Residence: Rodessa, Louisiana
Charges:
Possession of Schedule III (Buprenorphine)
Possession of Schedule IV (Valium, Clonazepam)
Possession of Schedule II (Amphetamine)
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS
Illegal Use of CDS in the Presence of a Minor
Driving Under Suspension
Arrested by: DeSoto Parish SLIU

Date of Arrest: October 2, 2025
Suspect: Matthew M. Rhodes
Age: 53
Residence: Shreveport, Louisiana
Charges:
Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine)
Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS
Vehicle Headlamps Required
Arrested by: DeSoto Parish SLIU

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office continues its proactive efforts to combat illegal narcotics distribution throughout the parish.

Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to the Sheriff’s Office or submit anonymous tips through the DeSoto Parish Crime Stoppers program.

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DeSoto Parish residents can expect pleasant fall conditions midweek, followed by increased chances of rain heading into the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will bring sunny skies with a high near 78 degrees. Winds will be light from the north at around 5 mph, shifting to the east in the afternoon.

Wednesday night is expected to be mostly clear and cooler, with temperatures dipping to around 51 degrees. A light southeast wind of 5 mph will continue overnight.

Thursday will remain mostly sunny with a high near 80. Winds will stay calm, becoming southeast at about 5 mph later in the day.

Thursday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 59.

By Friday, a slight change in weather begins. There is a 20 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. The day will be partly sunny with temperatures reaching around 82.

Friday night brings a higher chance of precipitation, with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Skies will be mostly cloudy with a low around 63.

The wet weather is expected to continue on Saturday, with showers likely and possible thunderstorms in the afternoon. The high will be near 73, and the chance of rain is 70 percent.

Saturday night also carries a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m., followed by lingering showers. Skies will remain mostly cloudy with a low near 61.

Conditions begin to clear slightly on Sunday, with a 30 percent chance of showers under partly sunny skies. The high will reach near 76.

Sunday night will be partly cloudy with temperatures around 60 degrees.
Looking ahead to Monday, there is a 20 percent chance of showers with mostly sunny skies and a high near 79.

Residents are encouraged to plan outdoor activities early in the week and remain weather-aware heading into the weekend.

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Baton Rouge — The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is implementing a series of strategic actions to strengthen and stabilize the frontline child welfare workforce. These steps are part of the Department’s broader commitment to improving safety, timeliness, and permanency outcomes for children and families across the state.

Over the past year, DCFS has undertaken a top-to-bottom review of its operations, informed by staff feedback, legislative discussions, and best practices from child welfare organizations. That review made clear that child safety and timely response depend on having sufficient staffing and supervision at the frontlines.

“Louisiana’s children deserve our very best response, every time,” said DCFS Secretary Rebecca Harris. “We are making the necessary adjustments to ensure we have skilled, supported staff where children and families need us most — on the frontlines in their communities.”

As part of this effort:

More than 100 child welfare staff are being reassigned to place expertise closer to the children and families while also building a stronger operational backbone to sustain the change. These reassignments ensure that investigations and in-home services are properly staffed and supervised in every community.

Centralized Intake (CI) operations are being restructured to reinforce the strong commitment to child safety, rapid response, and accountability in how reports of abuse and neglect are handled. Beginning in December, CI staff will report to a DCFS office, improving connection to field operations, training, and supervisory support.

The Department is also expanding evening and weekend coverage, including a second shift of 53 newly hired child welfare professionals to address after-hours reports and reduce response delays.

Secretary Harris noted that the move toward in-office and community-based work reflects both national best practice and the evolving expectations for public service delivery.

“Child welfare work is intensely human work,” Harris said. “It requires collaboration, supervision, and real-time decision-making. Being together as teams especially in intake and investigations allows us to provide faster, higher-quality responses that keep children safer.”

DCFS is following all State Civil Service procedures in the implementation of these changes, and every impacted employee has been notified and will be supported through the transition.

The Department’s recent hiring efforts and organizational changes will produce improvements in response time and workload balance.

“These are difficult transitions, but they are absolutely necessary,” Harris said. “Every decision is being made with one goal – to strengthen the system so children are protected, families are supported, and staff are empowered to succeed.”

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DeSoto Parish Schools has announced its outstanding student representatives for the 2025–2026 Student of the Year competition. These exemplary students have been selected at the school level for their academic excellence, leadership, character, and commitment to serving their communities. They will now advance to compete at the district level later this month.

DeSoto Parish Schools issued a statement applauding these students for representing the very best of their schools and communities. “We are incredibly proud of our student leaders who continue to set high standards inside and outside the classroom,” the district shared.

2025–2026 School-Level Student of the Year Representatives

Elementary School Representatives:
Emma Meek – North DeSoto Upper Elementary (NDUE)
Cooper Hatcher – Stanley High School (SHS)
Paris Williams – Mansfield Middle School (MMS)
Reid Ward – Logansport High School (LHS)

Middle School Representatives:
Celina Husein – Mansfield Middle School (MMS)
Rylee Wilson – Logansport High School (LHS)
Tinlee Cardone – North DeSoto Middle School (NDMS)
Olivia Hatcher – Stanley High School (SHS)

High School Representatives:
Emmarie Atkins – Logansport High School (LHS)
Taylor Ramsey – Stanley High School (SHS)
Cecilia Flanders – North DeSoto High School (NDHS)
Christini’ Addison – Mansfield High School (MHS)

These students will undergo an interview and portfolio review process at the district level to determine who will advance to regionals and potentially to state-level competition.

Congratulations to all of the school-level honorees for their outstanding achievements and for representing DeSoto Parish with pride and excellence!

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DeSoto Parish is gearing up for a day of inspiration, athleticism, and community spirit as the Special Olympics officially kicks off on Thursday, Nov. 20 at Mansfield High School.

Residents are invited to attend and cheer on student-athletes from across the parish as they compete in a variety of events showcasing their skills, determination, and sportsmanship. The event highlights the core values of the Special Olympics—inclusion, courage, and unity—bringing together schools, families, and community members in celebration of the abilities of all athletes.

“This is more than a competition; it’s a powerful demonstration of perseverance, joy, and community support,” event organizers said. “We encourage everyone to attend and be part of this meaningful celebration.”

Organizers are preparing an uplifting opening ceremony, followed by a full day of events designed to engage and empower participants while promoting friendship and inclusion.

Families, students, and supporters are urged to mark their calendars and come out in full force to show their support.

Everyone is welcome to attend this free event, and community members are encouraged to bring signs, share smiles, and help make this a memorable day for these exceptional athletes.

Together, DeSoto Parish can celebrate ability, encourage inclusion, and uplift every participant on their journey to success.

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By Steve Graf    

(First of two parts)

There was a time when being a “professional bass fisherman” was not considered a real job. A time when conservation was an afterthought and the phrase “catch and release” was considered crazy talk. A time when anglers looking to fish for a living did not have to be great communicators or promoters like is required today.

So, let’s look at how the sport has progressed over the last 50 years and a few of the men who made the sport of bass fishing what it is today, men who deserve the credit for what we call professional bass fishing. Then we’ll look at where the sport might be headed.

During the decade of the ‘70s, bass fishing was starting to take hold as a true sport. Ray Scott, founder of the Bass Angler’s Sportsman’s Society, now known as B.A.S.S., took the sport to a level no one other than Ray himself saw coming.

In the 1960s, Scott, working as an insurance salesman, had a vision for what he thought could revolutionize the sport of bass fishing. He wanted anglers to be able to compete and make a living doing it. He wanted it to be a means where anglers could provide for their families while doing what they loved.

Fast forward to the 1980s and ‘90s as Ray’s vision was starting to come together as some of the greatest anglers of all-time began to make a name for themselves — anglers like Bill Dance, Roland Martin, Rick Clunn, Gary Kline and Hank Parker. Guys who laid the groundwork and foundation for anglers to follow.

Almost every one of these top anglers made a name for themselves with their TV shows. But one program called the “Bassmasters” set the tone by covering each and every bass tournament. It allowed for great teaching moments for anglers all across the country to learn how professional anglers were catching fish. The popularity of this program was huge for fishing and attracting potential sponsors.

Other TV programs like “Bill Dance Outdoors,” “Jimmy Houston Outdoors” and “Fishing with Roland Martin” have led the way as the most successful TV bass fishing programs of all-time. Then Hank Parker dipped his toe into the TV world with his own program known as “Hank Parker Outdoors.”

They quickly found out that the way to prosperity was through the TV market where they could reach thousands of viewers on a weekly basis. What’s impressive is the fact that all these TV fishing programs still exist today!

It was these same anglers who started the journey themselves by hitting the road like a traveling circus, fishing lakes and rivers across America while competing and introducing bass fishing to so many.

Credit also goes to some other legendary anglers like Kevin Van Dam, Davy Hite, Mark Davis, Larry Nixon and Skeet Reece, who all have played a role in creating a way for anglers to make a living as professional bass fishermen.

The sport has come a long way from the early 1970s and hopefully it will continue for generations to come. But I’m really starting to wonder, have we already gone through the so-called “heyday” of professional bass fishing?

Next week in Part 2, we’ll take a look at the obstacles anglers are facing today in order to make a living as a professional bass fisherman.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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Preachers have all sorts of microphone stories. Microphones left one when one has “turned aside.” Microphones left on in the middle of singing. Thankfully my ushers know how to get my attention on that one. The last two Sunday’s I have lived my Saturday nightmare. That nightmare is we show up to lead worship, and we don’t have the bulletin the congregation does. The other part of that dream, the microphone doesn’t work!

It’s a common clergy nightmare: you’re mid-sermon, the Spirit is moving, the congregation is leaning in… and then poof — the microphone dies. You tap it, blow into it, give the sound booth a look that says,

“Help me, Lord,” and suddenly your voice is swallowed by the sanctuary’s silence.

But maybe — just maybe — this isn’t a technical glitch. Maybe it’s a parable.

Because isn’t that how prayer sometimes feels? You’re pouring your heart out to God, asking, pleading, praising… and all you get back is silence. No booming voice from heaven. No divine thumbs-up. Just the spiritual equivalent of a dead mic.

But here’s the twist: when the mic goes out, the preacher doesn’t stop preaching. They raise their voice. They step forward. They trust that the message matters enough to be heard — even if it’s not amplified.
And maybe that’s what faith looks like when God feels silent. You keep praying. You keep showing up. You trust that your voice still reaches heaven, even when it feels like the sound system of the soul has short-circuited.

After all, Scripture is full of mic-drop moments — but also mic-off moments:

Elijah in the cave, waiting for God to speak through fire and wind, only to hear a whisper.

David crying out in the Psalms, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?”

Jesus himself, on the cross, asking, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

These aren’t failures of faith. They’re echoes of it. They’re reminders that silence isn’t absence. That

God’s hearing isn’t always felt — but it’s always real.

So next time the mic dies, smile. It’s a holy metaphor. And maybe — just maybe — the sermon gets louder when it’s spoken from the heart, not the speakers.

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On a warm October day at an air show in St. Louis, Missouri, pilot Archie Hoxsey learned that the colonel would be among the spectators. Archie asked the colonel if he would like to take a flight. The colonel quickly responded, “No, thank you. There are enough high-fliers up there already.” The colonel was apprehensive because he had never flown in an airplane before, but more importantly, he had heard about Archie’s most recent flight in an airshow in Lincoln, Nebraska. During that flight, one of the wings on Archie’s airplane collapsed. The airplane flipped upside down and Archie fell out of the airplane. Luck was on Archie’s side during this flight. He was flying slowly enough, low enough, and the airplane threw him out just as he was passing over a tall barn. He fell only a few feet and received only minor cuts and bruises as the barn’s roof broke his fall. The airplane was destroyed, but Archie explained that he had just received a brand-new airplane.

At the St. Louis airfield, Archie and the colonel continued their conversation as the colonel carefully examined the airplane. Finally, the colonel accepted Archie invitation. Archie responded, “You don’t need to fear anything, colonel. You’ll come down without a scratch.” The crowd of 10,000 spectators watched as the colonel clambered aboard the small two-seat airplane. Once Archie made sure the colonel was safe and secure in the co-pilot’s seat, he took the seat beside him. It took Archie and the ground crew ten minutes to get both engines running, which only worried the colonel for a moment or two. “Anything wrong?” the colonel asked. “I’ll get ‘em going,” he replied. “Good,” the colonel said without the slightest sign of nervousness. The anxious crowd cheered as the plane finally took off and climbed to a low altitude. The airplane circled the airfield and headed back over the crowd. People began to gasp as the airplane suddenly nose-dived toward the ground. Just above the treetop level, Archie pulled back on the yoke and the airplane darted back to its previous level. Just as the crowd was breathing a collective sigh of relief, the airplane took another nosedive. Archie let the airplane get within a few feet of the tops of trees before bringing it back to altitude, then immediately dipped the plane again. The third time, the airplane got within just a few feet of the ground before Archie pulled up. The relieved crowd roared with excitement. As the airplane flew over the crowd, they could see the colonel’s grand smile which his large mustache failed to conceal. Moments later, Archie and the colonel returned to the ground in a textbook landing. Their flight lasted just three minutes and twenty seconds. The crowd ran to greet Archie and the colonel. His large smile was only interrupted by his attempts to explain his experience to those nearest him. “There was nothing uncomfortable about it,” the colonel explained. “I don’t know when I have ever enjoyed myself so much. I wish I could have stayed up longer.” During that air show on October 11, 1910, Archie was piloting one of the Wright Brothers’ brand new Model B airplanes on the colonel’s first airplane flight. It was the first airplane flight of a President or former President of the United States. The colonel, as he preferred to be called, was former president Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt.

 

Sources:

1. St. Joseph News-Press, September 6, 1910, p.1.

2. The Kansas City Post, October 12, 1910, p.6.

3. “Colonel Roosevelt is invited to fly in Arch Hoxsey’s plane at St. Louis, Mo., 1910,” Library of Congress, January 4, 2010, accessed October 13, 2025, https://youtu.be/yIlpDwMKzJo?si=nhRiZqxyPHqajluI.

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On October 22, 1942, a tragedy unfolded at sea that still sends shivers through maritime history. The British light cruiser HMS Curacoa was escorting the RMS Queen Mary, which was transporting nearly 20,000 American troops to Britain during World War II. In a catastrophic miscalculation, the Queen Mary accidentally rammed the Curacoa, slicing it in half.

The Queen Mary, nicknamed the “Grey Ghost” for her speed and stealth, was under orders never to stop, not even in emergencies. After the collision, the massive liner plowed forward, leaving behind the shattered cruiser and hundreds of men struggling in the cold Atlantic. Of the Curacoa’s crew, 338 perished. Survivors recalled the horror of watching their shipmates vanish as the Queen Mary steamed on.

The event was hushed during the war. News reports were minimal, and families often received vague notices of “lost at sea.” But among sailors, the story became a whispered legend of bad luck and restless spirits.

Today, the Queen Mary is docked in Long Beach, California, serving as a hotel and museum. It is also considered one of the most haunted places in America. Visitors and paranormal investigators frequently report hearing footsteps echoing in empty corridors, ghostly figures in naval uniforms, and even cries for help. Some believe the spirits of the Curacoa’s sailors followed the ship, bound forever to the vessel that could not stop for them.

Tour guides often point to “Door 13” in the engine room, where a crewman was crushed decades later, as one of the ship’s most active paranormal hotspots. But many say the true haunting stems from October 22, 1942, when hundreds of men were lost in the Atlantic’s icy embrace.

For those who walk the Queen Mary today, the line between history and haunting is thin. The ship’s grandeur hides its dark past, but echoes of the Curacoa disaster continue to reverberate—an eternal reminder of duty, sacrifice, and ghosts that never let go.

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Mamie Townsley
05/19/1938 – 10/14/2025
Visitation: Friday, October 24 from 2:00-6:00 P.M. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Service: Saturday, October 25, 2025 at11:00 A .M. at Good Hope Baptist Church

Gloria J. McCutcheon
May 1, 1934 — October 20, 2025
Service: Thursday, October 23 at 2:00 p.m. at Bethel Cemetery

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

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Due to an extended lack of rainfall and heightened fire risk, DeSoto Parish officials have officially declared a burn ban effective immediately. The ban prohibits open burning until conditions improve and local authorities lift the restrictions.

Parish President Ernel Jones announced the declaration on October 9, citing the need to prevent wildfires and protect homes, forests, and infrastructure in the parish.

According to fire safety guidelines from the Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry (LDAF), burn bans are used to curb open burning when fire danger increases. Local ordinances may impose stricter rules than state regulations.

Residents are reminded of the following restrictions and precautions:
The ban covers most open burning—fires made in open ground or containers without complete containment.

Only natural vegetation and ordinary yard waste (leaves, branches, grass clippings) are permitted to be burned under normal circumstances, when allowed.

Items not allowed in open burns include plastics, tires, painted materials, chemical containers, heavy oils, asphalt shingles, and other synthetic or hazardous products.

Officials ask community members to comply with the burn ban to reduce the risk of accidental wildfires and strain on firefighting resources. Failure to comply may lead to fines or penalties under local ordinances.

For updates on when the burn ban will be lifted or additional safety guidance, residents should monitor releases from the DeSoto Parish Government, the Fire District, or LDAF.

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