BATON ROUGE, La. – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has relaunched its T4LA initiative ­­–Transforming Transportation with Transparency and Teamwork – during a department-wide update event at headquarters.

The initiative, originally established in 2024 under Gov. Jeff Landry’s executive order, is designed to transform DOTD’s internal operations and improve how the department serves Louisiana residents. Tuesday’s meeting provided employees with updates on progress and outlined the next steps in the effort.

“Today we relaunch T4LA not just as part of the transformation, but as a renewed pledge to the people of Louisiana,” said DOTD Secretary Glenn Ledet. “Our mission is to deliver infrastructure and services that are efficient, transparent, and worthy of public trust.”

As part of the relaunch, DOTD announced earlier this year the creation of two new offices within the department. The Office of Transformation and the Office of Project Delivery were created to lead improvements across the agency. Both offices were created during the 2025 Regular Legislative Session.

The Office of Transformation, led by Deputy Secretary Julia Fisher-Cormier, will oversee departmental reforms, implement efficiency strategies, improve communications processes, and manage performance metrics. The office will also prioritize innovative practices and expand the outsourcing of routine maintenance tasks.

“The relaunch is an opportunity to reintroduce ongoing efforts and present new goals that will all work toward modernizing DOTD. It’s time we pull back the curtain and clearly show Louisiana what we’re doing right and also what we know we can do better,” said Fisher-Cormier.

The Office of Project Delivery, led by Assistant Secretary Eric Dauphine, will focus on streamlining project development, management, construction, and delivery. This office aims to enhance project efficiency, reduce delays, and strengthen accountability.

“Change is never easy, but these initiatives will prove to accomplish a better, faster work product. We’re engaging our peer states for best practices and efficiencies,” said Dauphine.

Key notable initiatives of the transformation include:
Program and project delivery: Streamlining planning, construction, maintenance, and operations to improve efficiency.
Innovation: Expanding the use of scheduling, permitting, and performance tracking systems to strengthen accountability, as well as utilizing automation and advanced methods.
Workforce and wage assessment: Ensuring workloads are balanced and wages are competitive to ensure we are giving our most valuable assets, our people, the opportunity for success.
Economic development collaboration: Formalizing processes to incorporate commerce as a key priority in our processes and aligning with the whole-of-government approach.

Since the transformation launch, DOTD has already introduced several improvements, including the Project Viewer, which allows the public to easily track the status and timelines of infrastructure projects in their area. The complete initiative list and upcoming changes are detailed at http://www.T4LA.com.

The relaunch marks a renewed commitment to building a more accountable, efficient, and transparent transportation system for Louisiana. DOTD will continue to share progress updates as the initiative advances.

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Residents across DeSoto Parish can expect several days of warm, sunny weather through the end of the workweek, with rain and thunderstorm chances returning by the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday: Expect clear skies and sunshine throughout the day, with highs near 88°F and a light northeast wind at 5 to 10 mph. Tonight will remain clear and mild, with lows around 59°F and a gentle east wind near 5 mph.

Thursday: Another sunny and warm day is in store, with highs again near 88°F. Winds will shift southeast at 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. The night will be partly cloudy, with temperatures dipping to around 63°F.

Friday: Mostly sunny skies will continue, with highs reaching about 86°F. Friday night should remain mostly clear, with lows around 68°F.

Saturday: Rain chances increase heading into the weekend. Expect a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms developing after 1 p.m., with partly sunny skies and highs near 87°F.

Saturday Night: Showers and storms become more likely overnight, with a 60% chance of rain after 1 a.m. under mostly cloudy skies and lows around 64°F.

Sunday: Any lingering showers should taper off early, leaving mostly sunny skies and highs around 81°F. Sunday night will be clear and cool, with lows near 58°F.

Monday: The new week begins on a bright note, with sunny skies and a pleasant high near 84°F.
The National Weather Service advises residents to enjoy the dry and comfortable midweek weather, but to keep an eye on forecasts as the weekend approaches when storm chances increase.

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Mansfield High School is proud to announce Christini Addison as the 2025 Student of the Year, recognizing her outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and character.

Christini has consistently demonstrated excellence both in and out of the classroom, earning respect from teachers and peers alike. Known for her dedication, compassion, and determination, she embodies the true spirit of a Mansfield Wolverine — caring, perseverant, respectful, a servant leader, and a committed team player.

“Christini represents everything we strive to instill in our students — leadership, integrity, and a heart for others,” said a Mansfield High School representative. “We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and can’t wait to see all that she will continue to achieve.”

The Student of the Year honor recognizes students who excel academically while making meaningful contributions to their school and community through leadership and service.

Mansfield High School extends heartfelt congratulations to Christini Addison for this well-deserved recognition and invites the community to join in celebrating her success.

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“Use it or lose it.”

That phrase haunted me in the weight room like a sweaty ghost. Coaches would shout it while we bench-pressed our body weight and tried not to pass out. Language professors muttered it like a curse as we butchered ancient Greek. My piano teacher said it with a smile that somehow felt like a threat. And you know what? They were all right. Use it… or wave it goodbye as it packs its bags and heads for the hills.

I haven’t used it. And friends, I’ve nearly lost it.

These days, I write notes to folks in the congregation. Some are invitations to church events. Others are little “thinking of you” cards. And then there’s my favorite category: “I know where you sit, and I haven’t seen you sitting there lately.” I wrote a whole stack of those this week. If you want to dodge your preacher’s attendance radar, just switch pews every Sunday like a liturgical ninja. I’ll be baffled for weeks.

But here’s the kicker—my handwriting has gone full toddler. For every note I finished, I tossed two in the trash because they looked like ransom letters written by a raccoon. My cursive has officially filed for retirement.

Back in the day, learning cursive in third grade was a rite of passage. It was like joining a secret society.

Suddenly, you could decode the mysterious adult scribbles on birthday cards and grocery lists. We spent hours crafting those elegant loops and swirls like we were training to be 18th-century poets.

Now? Third graders are learning to type before they can tie their shoes. Cursive is going the way of the floppy disk and dial-up internet. Kids today might never know the thrill of writing a capital “Q” that looks like a fancy number 2. Tragic.

I’m guilty of abandoning pen and paper. My cursive is now somewhere between “ancient ruins” and “doctor’s prescription.” I tried writing “blessings” and ended up with something that looked like “blessingshzz.” I don’t even know what language that is.

So where in your life has “use it or lose it” come back to bite you?

There are skills that need daily reps. And there are disciplines that need daily practice. Love, for example, isn’t just a feeling—it’s a full-contact sport. If you think you’ve “fallen out of love,” good news: you can fall back in. Just wear a helmet.

Patience? Practice it. Compassion? Flex it. Forgiveness? Stretch it out like you’re warming up for emotional yoga. These things don’t just happen—they’re spiritual muscle groups, and if you don’t work them out, they get flabby.

Even your faith needs practice. So find a church on Sunday. We’ll all be there, spiritually bench-pressing our doubts and doing cardio with our convictions. And if your handwriting’s as bad as mine, don’t worry—we’ve got printed bulletins and grace in abundance.

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North DeSoto Middle School’s National Junior Honor Society (NIHS) kicked off its annual food drive Monday morning, setting a goal to collect 2,000 non-perishable food items to support local families in need.

Students, staff, and community members are encouraged to participate by donating non-perishable goods throughout the month. All donations will benefit local food banks that provide essential assistance to residents across DeSoto Parish.

While all non-perishable food items are welcome, the food bank has identified the following as the most needed:

Canned Meats – tuna, chicken, or salmon
Peanut Butter
Dried Beans (1–2 lb. bags)
Rice (1–2 lb. bags)
Pasta Noodles / Macaroni & Cheese
Hearty-Style Soups
Canned Vegetables or Canned Fruit
Boxed Cereals, Oatmeal, or Grits
Flour and Sugar (5 lb. bags or smaller)

Organizers say the effort not only helps stock local pantries but also teaches students the value of community service and compassion.
“Our students are learning that even small acts of giving can make a huge difference,” said an NDMS representative. “We’re proud to see our Griffins stepping up to support families across our parish.”

Donations can be dropped off at North DeSoto Middle School during regular school hours. The food drive will continue through the end of the month.

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By Steve Graf    

This is a question that has been asked for centuries and I’m not sure if it can actually be answered with certainty. There are several different lunar charts that will predict daily/hourly game activity based on the moon’s position in the sky. But there’s one that I have come to trust and seems to be fairly accurate, the iSolunar Chart (yes, that is the correct spelling).

From an angler’s perspective, I’ll have to admit that there have been days where this chart was spot on in terms of predicting game or fish activity. After a fishing trip with Lake Fork guide, Johnny Guice, I became a believer.

While on this fishing trip with Johnny, and after a slow start that morning, he made the comment that the major feeding time was not supposed to occur until around 10:15 that morning. Well, to say I was skeptical would be an understatement.

Then at 10:15, his cell phone alarm went off and he made the comment, “Get ready boys, they should start biting pretty quick.” Again, me being a doubting Thomas, I chuckled in silence. But five minutes later all three of the guys on this boat started catching fish!

The bite was on, and we began to put fish in the boat faster than we could take them off the hook! I was amazed at the timing and accuracy of the iSolunar Chart as I thought to myself, maybe there’s some truth to this chart.

From that day on, I’ve been using this chart to make sure I’m in my best area on the lake where I have found fish in practice. This chart basically predicts where the moon will be in the sky at any certain time of day.

Your best feeding periods most of the time will be when the moon is directly overhead or underfoot (the other side of the Earth). Turns out there is a correlation between the position of the moon in the sky with fish and wildlife activity.

I cannot tell you how many times I have used this chart just to give me an idea as to what time of day I can expect the major bite (feeding period) to occur. But it can also have its drawbacks if you’re expecting the major feeding period to kick in at a specific time and it doesn’t.

This can have a mental effect on you as an angler if you’re counting on this chart to be correct. There are weather conditions that can also alter things, like an approaching cold front or major weather change.

While this chart can help you in many ways, don’t rely on it totally. Again, game and fish activity can be influenced by many other factors. This chart is simply a tool that may or may not help you to be successful.

So, whether you’re a hunter, fisherman or a bird watcher, check the iSolunar Chart the next time you’re planning your next hunting or fishing trip. You too might be surprised just how accurate this chart can be.

You can add this app to your phone for easy access by going to your app store and searching, iSolunar Hunt & Fish Times. ‘Til next time, good luck on all your hunting and fishing adventures.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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On September 30, 1955, 23-year-old Donald Gene “Don” Turnupseed was returning to his home in Tulare, California, from California Polytechnic College in San Luis Obispo, California. Don was a freshman at the college; in April of 1955, he had completed a four-year stint in the Navy and had enrolled at the college soon thereafter. Don was driving east on Highway 466 (now Highway 46) in his five-year-old Ford Tudor on a trip that normally took about two and a half hours. It was Friday evening, and Don was looking forward to spending a stress-free weekend with Barbara, his wife of five years. Don could not imagine how stressful his life would soon become.

At about 5:30, just before sunset on that Friday evening, Don had been driving almost an hour when he approached the intersection at Highway 41. Don had to turn left to continue his trip to Tulare. He was familiar with this drive and knew he only had to decrease his speed slightly because turning onto Highway 41 was more like veering than an actual turn. Don could see about three miles in the distance on the long straight stretch, and the road seemed to disappear into the low mountains in the background. Don saw no approaching vehicles, turned his steering wheel slightly to the left, and began to veer onto Highway 41. Don was unable to see the low, sleek, silver-gray convertible sports car driving towards him in the opposite lane until it was too late. The two cars struck almost head-on.

Don, in the bigger, heavier car received only minor bruises and a cut on his nose. The two people in the sports car were not so lucky. The driver of the sports car was unconscious and trapped in the crushed car. His passenger received numerous injuries when he was thrown from the sports car. People who stopped to help found him lying unconscious on the side of the road. It took an ambulance about half an hour to reach the site of the crash. Ambulance driver Paul Moreno noted that both the driver and passenger of the sports car were alive when taken from the site of the accident, but the driver died during the 24-mile drive back to War Memorial Hospital in Paso Robles. His passenger eventually recovered. Don told the California Highway Patrolman on the scene, “I looked but didn’t see him coming.” A driver who was just behind Don at the time of the crash said he also failed to see the approaching car. Don was eventually released by the highway patrolman and told that he could “probably catch a ride home.” Don flagged down a passing car and arrived at the hospital in Tulare six and a half hours after the accident. It was there that he learned that the driver of the other car had not survived.

Don was distraught and avoided speaking about the tragic accident. He gave just a single interview, which was on the day after the accident, but reminders of the tragedy were everywhere. Photos of the driver who died in the accident appeared on coffee mugs, plates, t-shirts, book and magazine covers, statuettes, and a plethora of other items. He became a pop culture icon. On July 13, 1995, almost 40 years after the accident, Don died from lung cancer. He was finally at peace. The intersection where the accident occurred is now a memorial junction named after the driver of the sports car who died in the accident. That intersection is called the James Dean Memorial Junction.

 

Sources:

Tulare Advance-Register, October 1, 1955, p.1.
“Donald Gene Turnupseed,” Findagrave.com, accessed October 12, 2025, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/10990655/donald-gene-turnupseed.

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At dawn on October 15, 1917, in Vincennes, France, a woman faced a firing squad. She was accused of being one of the most dangerous spies of World War I. Her name was Mata Hari.

Born Margaretha Zelle in the Netherlands, Mata Hari reinvented herself as an exotic dancer in Paris in the early 1900s. She claimed to be a Javanese priestess, performing ritualistic dances that captivated audiences. Her sensuality and mystique earned her fame—and suspicion. As Europe plunged into war, her relationships with powerful military and political figures drew scrutiny.

In 1917, French authorities arrested her, accusing her of spying for Germany. The evidence was circumstantial, much of it based on intercepted messages that may have been misinterpreted or even fabricated. Historians later argued that Mata Hari was more scapegoat than secret agent. France, reeling from battlefield losses, needed a villain.

Her trial played out like a witch hunt. The prosecutors painted her not just as a spy, but as a sorceress of seduction, using her body as a weapon. With her exotic costumes, mysterious persona, and reputation for independence, she became an easy target for moral outrage.

On the morning of her execution, witnesses reported she refused a blindfold. She stood tall, staring down her executioners. Some accounts even claim she blew them a kiss before the shots rang out. Like accused witches centuries earlier, she died for breaking the rules of her time more than for any proven crime.

After her death, her legend only grew. Novels, films, and plays transformed Mata Hari into a symbol of both dangerous femininity and tragic injustice. Today, many historians consider her a victim of circumstance, condemned not for what she did but for who she dared to be.

Her story is a reminder that October 15 is not just about the fall of a dancer-turned-spy. It’s about how suspicion, fear, and myth can destroy a person, just as surely as accusations of witchcraft once did.

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Henry Marsh
07/09/1940 – 10/11/2025
Visitation: Friday October 17 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday October 18 @ 11:00 a.m. at Union Spring

Zandra Ann Burch
April 30, 1955 — October 13, 2025
Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 16 at Beulah Baptist Church Cemetery

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

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The DeSoto Parish School System has announced that Mr. Brian Anderson has been selected as the 2025–2026 DeSoto Parish Schools Principal of the Year, recognizing his outstanding leadership, dedication, and impact on students and staff.

Anderson, who has been praised for his commitment to academic excellence and fostering a positive school culture, was chosen from among several exceptional school leaders across the parish. District officials said his work exemplifies the mission of DeSoto Parish Schools — to ensure every student is valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.

“Mr. Anderson’s leadership has made a lasting difference in his school and community,” district leaders shared. “His passion for education and his ability to inspire both students and staff truly set him apart.”

The official announcement and a feature story highlighting Anderson’s accomplishments and contributions to DeSoto Parish Schools will be released soon on the district’s website.

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On Saturday, October 11 from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM the grounds at 142 North Common Street are going to be all about trains.

Train Day at the Museum combines the love of, and history of, the railroads in Northwest Louisiana. This year Train Day will feature train talks, railroad memorabilia, tours of both the Shreveport Railroad Museum and the Shreveport Water Works Museum- all free!

Park your vehicle in one of the lots across North Common from the driveway and Train Day sponsor Sportran will zip around to pick you up and bring you to the museum’s front door- for free!

Thanks, too, to Shreveport Downtown Development Authority for their sponsorship of this downtown event.

Enjoy talks all day in the museum’s climate-controlled Ozone Room- for free!

*Warren Caileff “Fifty Years in a Darkroom” at 10:30 am.
*Steve Crise “Rod Stewarts Grand St. & Three Rivers Railroad” 11:00 am.
*Charles Goodrich “Fifty Years of Railroad Photography” 1:00 pm
*Steve Sandifer “T&P in North Louisiana: A Tribute to Billy Sandifer” 2:00 pm.
*Steve Crise “Dark Territory – Photographing Trains at Night” 3:00 pm.

Watch model trains chug over the A-Truss Bridge and around other landmarks in downtown Shreveport- free!

Tour the historic Shreveport Water Works Museum and learn how Shreveport was one of the first cities in the state to have (relatively) clean water in a world where the water would kill you- also free!

Eat at the museum! The Hot Dawg Hut and T&T’s Italian Ice will be there and ready to fill your tummy with delicious hamburgers, hot dogs, French fries and more. T&T’s has a long list of yummy Italian ices- not free!

Important tips:
*Persons with handicap tags are invited to park on the museum grounds. Come up the driveway and look for signs!
* Persons without handicap tags are asked to part across North Common Street in the various parking lots or along the service road.
*We love children and dogs, so feel free to bring both. However, we love good dogs on leashes only, please. (We also love good children. We hope they love railroads, too.)

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The Community Bank of Louisiana (CBLA) is alerting residents to a spoofing scam that has resurfaced in the region, targeting customers across the bank’s service footprint.

According to bank officials, scammers are manipulating caller ID systems to make it appear as though calls are coming from trusted sources — including law enforcement, courts, or even the bank itself. This type of cybercrime, known as spoofing, is designed to trick victims into revealing sensitive personal or financial information.

“In many cases, the phone number may look familiar or even match one saved in your contacts,” the bank said in a public notice. “That’s what makes these scams so dangerous — they rely on trust and familiarity.”

To help customers protect themselves, the Community Bank of Louisiana has shared several important safety tips:

CBLA will never ask for sensitive personal information over the phone. When customers call the bank, they may be asked a few basic questions for identity verification, but staff will never request private credentials.

CBLA will not request login information or details related to third-party payment apps such as Venmo or Cash App. The bank does not use or partner with these services to send or receive money.

CBLA will never ask for your online banking password or security codes.

CBLA will never send unannounced emails requesting signatures or document reviews. If you receive such an email, do not click any links — delete it and contact your local branch directly.

Legitimate CBLA emails will always come from an address ending in “@communitybankofla.bank.” Emails from other domains should be deleted and reported immediately.

Bank representatives urge customers who receive suspicious calls or messages to hang up and contact their local branch directly to confirm the communication’s legitimacy.

“Our top priority is protecting our customers,” CBLA stated. “If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and reach out to us — we’re here to help.”

For additional information or to report a suspicious call, visit your nearest Community Bank of Louisiana branch or contact the bank through its official website at http://www.communitybankofla.bank.

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Let’s talk about forgiveness. Not the kind where you say “It’s fine” while secretly plotting revenge via passive-aggressive casserole. I mean the real deal—the Christian commandment to forgive, even when it feels like hugging a cactus.

Jesus lays it out in Luke 17:3–4: “If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. Even if he sins against you seven times in a day and seven times comes back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”

Seven times a day? That’s not just a bad roommate—that’s a full-time job.

Let’s break this down. If someone wrongs you seven times in one day, that’s once every 3.4 hours. Assuming you sleep eight hours (which you don’t, because you’re still mad), that’s a sin every two hours.

At that rate, you’re basically running a forgiveness factory.

But Jesus isn’t joking. He’s not saying “forgive when it’s convenient” or “forgive when they bring cookies.” He’s saying forgive every time. Even if the apology sounds like “Oops, my bad” and they’re already halfway out the door.

Forgiveness is like spiritual cardio. It’s hard, it’s sweaty, and you’ll probably cry a little. But it strengthens your heart. Holding onto bitterness is like carrying around a backpack full of bricks labeled “Petty.” You think it’s protecting you, but really, it’s just ruining your posture and your peace.

Jesus knew this. That’s why He didn’t say, “Forgive when you feel like it.” He said, “You must forgive.” It’s not a suggestion—it’s a commandment. Like “Don’t steal” or “Don’t eat shrimp off someone else’s plate.”
I thought about these practical tips:

Say it out loud, “I forgive you.” Even if your voice cracks like a teenager at prom. Saying it helps your brain catch up to your heart.

You are not the scorekeeper. If you’re keeping a sin spreadsheet, you’re missing the point. Forgiveness isn’t about tallying offenses—it’s about releasing them.

Remember that you are also a sin expert. You’ve messed up too. Probably today. Maybe while reading this. God forgives you without a dramatic monologue. Extend that grace.

Learn to pray for the person. “Lord, bless them… with wisdom… and maybe a little common sense.” It’s okay to start petty. God can work with that.

Forgiveness does not mean you must help fools be fools. Forgiveness doesn’t mean letting someone borrow your car after they drove it into a lake. You can forgive and still say, “No thanks.”

Forgiveness is funny because it’s so human to resist it. We want justice, closure, and maybe a dramatic courtroom scene. But Jesus offers something better: peace. Not the kind you get from noise-canceling headphones, but the kind that lets you sleep at night without rehearsing arguments in your head.
So the next time someone sins against you—again—remember Luke 17. Forgive them. Even if it’s the seventh time. Even if they still owe you money. Even if they never say, “thank you.”

Because forgiveness isn’t just for them. It’s for you. It’s freedom. And it’s the kind of holy absurdity that makes following Jesus both challenging and beautiful.

Now go forth and forgive.

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Students at Central Christian Academy are proving that it’s never too early to make a difference. The school’s 3rd-grade class has kicked off its annual “Spread the Love” Peanut Butter Drive, an initiative aimed at helping fight hunger in the local community.

The drive, which runs through October 30, 2025, is being held in partnership with God’s Food Pantry to collect jars of peanut butter for families in need throughout DeSoto Parish.

“We want to spread our love the best way we know how—by collecting as much peanut butter as we can,” the students said in their class statement. “We feel that no families should go without food, and especially not peanut butter.”

Residents are encouraged to participate by donating jars of peanut butter at Central Christian Academy.

Donors are asked to note that their contributions are for the 3rd-grade class drive.

Faithlynn Powell, a 3rd grader helping lead the effort, summed up the enthusiasm of her classmates perfectly: “It is peanut butter time!”

Teachers and organizers said the project helps teach students the importance of compassion, service, and community engagement—values that extend beyond the classroom.

For more information or to donate, contact Central Christian Academy.

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DeSoto Parish Schools is helping students take the fear out of test day with a free ACT Boot Camp designed to boost confidence and performance ahead of upcoming exam dates.

The event will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 399 Jenkins Street in Mansfield. Students will have the opportunity to strengthen their skills in all ACT subject areas through two focused sessions:

8 a.m. – 11 a.m.: Math & Science

12 p.m. – 3 p.m.: English & Reading

The ACT Boot Camp is open free of charge to all DeSoto Parish students, who must bring their school-issued student ID badge to attend. A pizza lunch will be provided for those staying for both sessions.

District officials encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to prepare for one of the most important college readiness exams. “ACT test prep doesn’t have to be scary,” the district said in a statement. “We want to give our students every advantage to reach their goals and succeed beyond high school.”

Students can register online using this link or by scanning the QR code featured on the event flier.

For additional information, contact Brandon Fontenot at brandon.fontenot@desotopsb.com.

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By Steve Graf    

Once again, I’m going to venture off into the abyss and stray away from the bass fishing world. While aging and experiencing life for over 64 years of living in this great country, there are so many questions that I feel we just can’t find answers to. Today, with so much unrest in this country, let’s look at some of the issues we are dealing with and possible solutions.

Why are we as a nation so divided? What has come between all of us that we can’t sit in the same room and listen to one another? Why can we no longer share our opinions without fear of repercussions? Let’s start with the first question.

Why are we so divided? My first thought turns to the plain and simple fact: one political party hates the President! The hate runs so deep that it clouds their judgment as they refuse to acknowledge or accept anything he does good or bad. They just can’t overcome the hatred they have for this President!

How do we overcome the hate? We can start with the one thing that we as a nation need to face and correct. We need to get back to the teachings of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! While some of you might stop reading at this point, I hope you’ll continue.

Within the last 20 years, we have allowed the far left to convince us that God has no place in our schools or athletic events. We have literally caved into a small minority group and turned our backs on the ONE who has kept generations on the right path.

Somewhere along the way during our country’s 250-year journey, SOMEONE decided to take God out of our schools and prayer out of our athletic/public events! For this, “WE” have no one to blame but ourselves and the officials “WE” elected to represent “US” — the people.

This issue has a simple solution; replace the people we elected with those who will truly represent our needs and wants. It’s time to reset our moral compass! Instead of making decisions with our best interests at heart, most of our representatives (law makers) today are not interested in doing what’s right, they’re looking for personal and financial gain. They have forgotten the reason they are in such positions of power- to represent their constituents.

Next, we as a nation have become too tolerant to the concept of new ideas, knowing there will be consequences for generations to come, all because neither side can come to a mutual agreement that works for both. We don’t want to dismiss the other’s opinion even though we know it’s not right, so we tolerate it.

Why can we no longer sit in the same room and work out our issues? The problem is that it doesn’t matter what side you’re on, everyone feels THEY are right no matter what evidence or reason is put before them that says otherwise. In reality, we are at the point where no one truly wants to hear what the other side has to say and I’m not sure how we can overcome this obstacle.

It’s simply human nature that we all feel the need to be right, and no one wants to admit when they are wrong on any issue. In today’s America, everyone thinks their way is the only way and if you don’t agree with them, then YOU’RE not only the problem, but the enemy as well!

So how do we move forward and get past all these issues? I personally feel it’s going to take a major incident like 9/11 where our country is attacked and our way of life is threatened or worse, taken away. We’re desperately in search for a reason to come together and reunite.

Another thing that must change — fix the divorce rate in this country and bring back the family dynamics. Wedding vows should mean something! Bring back the idea of families and couples staying together! Now there’s a great concept! So many of today’s young people have mental issues mainly due to coming from broken homes, the breakdown of family structure, and of course, SOCIAL MEDIA!

We must recognize and eliminate social media as the biggest issue we have in our country today! While initially it was a great idea, other countries are now using it to manipulate our thoughts and turn us against one another with fake posts that have bad intentions.

Bottom line is this, whether you agree or disagree, America made a statement last November on how unsatisfied the people are at this point by electing a person who they feel will try and bring America back to its powerful place in the world. Everyone knew from the start that he (the President) has and will continue to ruffle a few feathers, but they elected him anyway.

To use a sports analogy, every Saturday college football coaches make decisions they feel are in the best interest of their teams. Each and every single one of them are looking and searching for one thing — victory. But not everyone agrees or likes the play or plays that are called, especially when they lose.

Politics is no different. Both parties think they have all the answers and know what actions are needed to bring America back. But all I know is this — if we continue to try and do this without God, we will never be able to bring this country back to a point where we can all get along.

To wrap this up, here’s some food for thought: sometimes we must lose what we have in order to appreciate what we had. While this could be hard for some to handle, it might be the only way we can bring our country back to where it used to be … SANE!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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Representatives from the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) will host an informational session for prospective students and their families on Tuesday, October 14 at 6:00 p.m. at the Cedar Grove-Line Avenue Branch Library, 8303 Line Avenue, Shreveport.

Each fall, LSMSA staff travel across Louisiana to meet with families, answer questions, and provide insight into the unique opportunities available at LSMSA. When possible, parents of current students and alumni from the area will also be present to share their first-hand experiences.

“Information sessions are such a great opportunity for families across the state to get a closer look at the LSMSA experience,” said Emily Shumate, LSMSA’s Director of Enrollment and Student Success. “It’s always inspiring to see students and their families discover the opportunities that await them here.”
The sessions are free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to register online before the day of the session at lsmsa.edu/info-sessions.

LSMSA is a tuition-free, public high school for high-achieving sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Financial assistance is available to ensure that no eligible student is denied access to its 42-year legacy of a college-level living/learning experience. Learn more online at LSMSA.edu.

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Most safety equipment on vehicles originated because of accidents. Underride bars, the safety device attached to the backs of semi-trucks and trailers, were the result of one such accident.

At around 1 a.m. on June 29, 1967, 40-year-old attorney Samuel “Sam” Brody; 20-year-old pre-law student Ronnie Harrison; 34-year-old Vera Jayne Palmer; three of Vera’s children: three-year-old Marie, six-year-old Zoltan, and eight-year-old Mickey Jr., along with their four dogs, left Biloxi, Mississippi, and began the 100-mile trip along US-90 to New Orleans. The three adults and two chihuahuas rode on front seat of the gray 1966 Buick Electra sedan, and the three children and two more chihuahuas slept in the back seat. At about 2:25 a.m., Ronnie drove the car along an extended straight stretch of the Chef Menteur Highway through the marsh which separated Lake Pontchartrain and the Gulf of Mexico. Mosquitoes have always plagued the marsh during the summertime, and New Orleans city employees sprayed insecticide fog from city trucks in the never-ending battle for control. These workers sprayed insecticide fog during the night to avoid the heavy daytime traffic because they had to travel at slow speeds along the two-lane highway.

Forty three-year-old Richard Rambo was driving an 18-wheeler in the same direction on Chef Menteur Highway some distance ahead of the gray Buick when he saw a white cloud emanating from the slow-driving fogging truck. Rather than depressing the brake pedal which would have illuminated the brake lights, Richard removed his foot from the accelerator pedal and the “jake brake” slowed the truck and trailer to about 30 miles per hour. In the car, which was traveling about 70 miles per hour, Ronnie failed to notice that the truck and trailer had slowed significantly. He never hit the brakes. The car drove under the rear of the trailer with such a tremendous impact that it peeled the top off of the sedan. The car stopped when its front end struck the back tires of the trailer. Ronnie, Sam, Vera, and the two chihuahuas in the front seat were killed instantly. Vera’s children and the two chihuahuas in the back seat were injured but ultimately survived.

In 1968, the year after the deadly crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration made it mandatory that all commercial trailers be equipped with large metal guards to prevent cars from driving under the rear of semi-trucks and trailers. Although technically called underride bars, the safety bars were nicknamed after Vera Jayne Palmer. You see, Vera Jayne Palmer was a famous actress, Playboy Playmate, and sex symbol of the 1950s and 60s. The world knows her by her married name, Jayne Mansfield. Because of the car crash that claimed her life, underride bars are commonly referred to as “Mansfield Bars.”

 

Sources:

1. The Shreveport Times, June 30, 1967, p.18.

2. Scott Armstrong, “The Dangers of Underride Truck Accidents, AKA Mansfield Bars,” February 14, 2025, https://albtriallawyers.com/the-dangers-of-underride-truck-accidents-aka-mansfield-bars/.

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On the night of October 8, 1871, the city of Chicago became an inferno. Flames tore through wooden buildings, leapt across streets, and devoured entire neighborhoods. By the time the fire burned itself out, more than 17,000 structures were gone, 100,000 people were left homeless, and at least 300 lives had been lost. The Great Chicago Fire remains one of the most infamous disasters in American history—but the story behind it is almost as legendary as the flames themselves.

The official cause was never determined. Popular legend blames Catherine O’Leary’s cow, said to have kicked over a lantern in a barn on DeKoven Street. The tale, fueled by anti-Irish prejudice, stuck in the public imagination, even though O’Leary and her family were likely innocent. Later, historians traced the story to an embellishment by a newspaper reporter who later admitted he had made it up. Still, the image of a cow sparking the blaze became part of Chicago folklore.

But what makes the event especially eerie is its timing. On the very same night, October 8, massive fires also erupted in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, and parts of Michigan. The Peshtigo Fire was far deadlier, killing an estimated 1,500–2,000 people—yet it was overshadowed by the destruction in Chicago.

This strange coincidence led some scientists to propose an unusual theory: that fragments of Biela’s Comet, which broke apart in the 1840s, may have showered Earth with flaming debris, igniting the Midwest. Others dismiss this, noting that comet fragments don’t behave that way in the atmosphere. But for those who enjoy the supernatural edge to history, the idea of a cosmic spark remains haunting.

The aftermath of the fire was equally dramatic. Chicago rebuilt with brick and steel instead of wood, launching the era of skyscrapers and transforming the city into a hub of modern architecture. Yet the ghost stories linger. Residents have long claimed that DeKoven Street, where the O’Leary barn once stood, feels unsettled. In the ruins after the fire, some survivors even swore they saw faces in the flames, as if the city itself was screaming.

Whether sparked by a cow, a careless match, or falling stars from the heavens, the Great Chicago Fire turned October 8 into a date forever marked by destruction, myth, and mystery.

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Marilyn Gordon Frith
March 1, 1937 — October 5, 2025
Visitation: Tuesday, October 7th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home
Services: Wednesday, October 8th at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Mansfield

Marilyn Hooper Downs
May 15, 1945 — October 1, 2025
Visitation: 1:00 p.m. until time of service.
Services: Saturday, October 11 at 2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home

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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Lump Sum Bid

Sale Type:
Lump sum sealed bid opening 1pm (ct), Wednesday, October 15th, 2025 with bid luncheon at 12pm ct. 

Overview Caddo Parish, Louisiana:

3-tracts totaling
1,944 acres (1,958deed acres) with 1,042-acres in planted pine (averaging: age 27, dbh11.5”, tpa250), 377-acres in natural pine (averaging: age 30, dbh12.6”, tpa119)

372-acres in natural hardwood with scattered pine (averaging: age 29, dbh7.6”, tpa126)

153-acres in roads and non-timber (rows, decks, pads, & ponds). All 3-tracts have active hunting leases $6-$10/acre, which transfers with sale.

Paved road access on state highway LA1(2), paved Parish Rd 150 and paved Parish Rd 117 (Boyter Road). Tracts within 3-miles southwest of Vivian city in northwest Louisiana. Logging capabilities average 8-months per year on roadside stands. A dozer and bushhogs are currently clearing roads, along with a culvert installation.

Complete detailed prospectus package with original tally workups by stand in adobe and excel, kml/shp based stand maps, and npv excel interactive program are available by emailing or calling Colleen 870-299-0978 or Ted 870-299-0977.

A Reynolds Forestry 4-wheel drive large SUV is at the Vivian airport for anyone who flies in; Reynolds Forestry has a p210n 6-seater which is also available to transport prospects within 4-state area; call Ted/Colleen to schedule.

Bid Opening:
Reynolds Forestry Office, 2315 North Vine Street, Magnolia, Arkansas 71753 (bidder attendance welcome). Lunch provided in conference room at 12pm (RSVP for meal) and bid opening at 1pm. Drive round to back porch door.

Bid Options:
Sealed bid by individual tract and/or cumulative for all 3-tracts and/or any 2-tract combination. Acceptance based on highest of cumulated individual bids compared to highest cumulative and highest two-tract combination (with highest single added for comparison to cumulative bids).

Contact: colleen@reynoldsforestry.com

Website: Land Sales Link

Google Maps Link: Click Here

Phone: 870-299-0978

LEGAL:

Reservation: Minerals reserved and seller reserves right to reject any and/or all offers.

Closing: Within 60 days of acceptance, overseen by RFC&RE, attorney, and abstractor. 2% Earnest of winning bid (minimum $20,000) due within 5 business days of offer acceptance. Title insurance, revenue stamps, and closing admin fee divided equally. Taxes prorated. Closing costs increased by buyer paid by buyer (10% per annum daily prorate fee for buyer closing extension). No other terms exist outside this document unless duly executed by all parties. Submitted offers (verbal & written) legally binding to all terms stated in this prospectus, deviating party responsible for reimbursing legal costs related to ensuring compliance.

Disclosure: Reynolds Forestry does not guarantee boundaries or volumes

VIEW & DOWNLOAD BID PACKAGE

STAND DETAILS

AERIAL MAPS

SOIL MAPS

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.

Costumes, candy, and plenty of spooky fun await families this Halloween as the Logansport Chamber of Commerce and River City Fest present the annual “Night Treat on Elm Street.”

The free community event will take place on Thursday, Oct. 31 from 6-8 p.m. at the Logansport Riverfront Park. Children and families can enjoy trick-or-treating, games, and festive activities in a safe, family-friendly environment.

Organizers are still welcoming local businesses and organizations to participate by setting up booths and handing out candy. “This event is all about bringing our community together,” the Chamber said in a statement. “With the help of our local partners, we can make this Halloween celebration bigger and better than ever.”

The Chamber encourages residents to wear their costumes and join neighbors for a night of laughter, fun, and holiday spirit along the riverfront.

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United Way of Northwest Louisiana (UWNWLA) announced a $25,000 donation from International Paper Mansfield Mill in support of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL) in DeSoto Parish. This generous gift helps kick off UWNWLA’s 9-to-5 campaign, which launched on Sept. 25, with a goal of raising $75,000 to benefit children across Northwest Louisiana.

The donation will allow the Imagination Library to continue providing free monthly books to the 6,000+ children currently enrolled and help reduce the 1,300 children on the waitlist, ensuring more kids have access to books before they age out of the program.

According to the Louisiana Department of Education, nearly 60% of children in Northwest Louisiana enter kindergarten without the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond. As the largest DPIL provider in the state, UWNWLA ensures that children from birth to age five receive a book each month at no cost to families. By the time a child completes the program, they can own a personal library of up to 60 books, giving them the foundation for early literacy and school readiness.

The Imagination Library provides access to books for children in families identified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). ALICE represents the growing number of families who work hard but still cannot afford essential needs. For these children, access to books is a critical step toward early literacy and long-term success.

At United Way of Northwest Louisiana, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to succeed,” said Kimberly Williams, Director of Community Impact. “We are deeply grateful to International Paper Mansfield for their generous support.”

If you would like to support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and help more children in Northwest Louisiana receive the gift of books visit: unitedwaynwla.harnessgiving.org/campaigns/6648

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Lump Sum Bid

Sale Type:
Lump sum sealed bid opening 1pm (ct), Wednesday, October 15th, 2025 with bid luncheon at 12pm ct. 

Overview Caddo Parish, Louisiana:

3-tracts totaling
1,944 acres (1,958deed acres) with 1,042-acres in planted pine (averaging: age 27, dbh11.5”, tpa250), 377-acres in natural pine (averaging: age 30, dbh12.6”, tpa119)

372-acres in natural hardwood with scattered pine (averaging: age 29, dbh7.6”, tpa126)

153-acres in roads and non-timber (rows, decks, pads, & ponds). All 3-tracts have active hunting leases $6-$10/acre, which transfers with sale.

Paved road access on state highway LA1(2), paved Parish Rd 150 and paved Parish Rd 117 (Boyter Road). Tracts within 3-miles southwest of Vivian city in northwest Louisiana. Logging capabilities average 8-months per year on roadside stands. A dozer and bushhogs are currently clearing roads, along with a culvert installation.

Complete detailed prospectus package with original tally workups by stand in adobe and excel, kml/shp based stand maps, and npv excel interactive program are available by emailing or calling Colleen 870-299-0978 or Ted 870-299-0977.

A Reynolds Forestry 4-wheel drive large SUV is at the Vivian airport for anyone who flies in; Reynolds Forestry has a p210n 6-seater which is also available to transport prospects within 4-state area; call Ted/Colleen to schedule.

Bid Opening:
Reynolds Forestry Office, 2315 North Vine Street, Magnolia, Arkansas 71753 (bidder attendance welcome). Lunch provided in conference room at 12pm (RSVP for meal) and bid opening at 1pm. Drive round to back porch door.

Bid Options:
Sealed bid by individual tract and/or cumulative for all 3-tracts and/or any 2-tract combination. Acceptance based on highest of cumulated individual bids compared to highest cumulative and highest two-tract combination (with highest single added for comparison to cumulative bids).

Contact: colleen@reynoldsforestry.com

Website: Land Sales Link

Google Maps Link: Click Here

Phone: 870-299-0978

LEGAL:

Reservation: Minerals reserved and seller reserves right to reject any and/or all offers.

Closing: Within 60 days of acceptance, overseen by RFC&RE, attorney, and abstractor. 2% Earnest of winning bid (minimum $20,000) due within 5 business days of offer acceptance. Title insurance, revenue stamps, and closing admin fee divided equally. Taxes prorated. Closing costs increased by buyer paid by buyer (10% per annum daily prorate fee for buyer closing extension). No other terms exist outside this document unless duly executed by all parties. Submitted offers (verbal & written) legally binding to all terms stated in this prospectus, deviating party responsible for reimbursing legal costs related to ensuring compliance.

Disclosure: Reynolds Forestry does not guarantee boundaries or volumes

VIEW & DOWNLOAD BID PACKAGE

STAND DETAILS

AERIAL MAPS

SOIL MAPS