The DeSoto Parish School Board has announced that all DeSoto Parish Schools and district offices will remain closed on Wednesday, Jan. 28, following an assessment of current conditions in coordination with local agencies.

Officials cited widespread impacts to water and utility services across much of the parish, which have affected the operation of school facilities. Continued concerns over cold temperatures and potentially hazardous roadway conditions during early morning travel also contributed to the decision.

District leaders emphasized that the safety of students and staff remains the top priority and said they will continue to monitor conditions closely as recovery efforts continue.

Additional updates regarding school operations will be shared as more information becomes available. School officials thanked the community for its continued support and urged residents to use caution and remain safe during ongoing winter weather conditions.

---

A wanted suspect was taken into custody Friday morning following a brief barricaded-subject situation in the Stonewall area, according to the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Kameron Jeane, 34, of Stonewall, was arrested just before 10 a.m. on Red Bluff Road after law enforcement located him in DeSoto Parish. Authorities had posted an alert Thursday regarding active warrants for Jeane and issued another notice earlier Friday as the situation unfolded.

The arrest was the result of a coordinated operation involving the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office SWAT team, Patrol Division, K-9 Unit, Investigations Division, Aerial Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Investigations. Officials said the situation was resolved quickly, and Jeane was taken into custody without incident.

Jeane was wanted on multiple felony warrants stemming from an investigation by the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office. Those charges include pandering, carnal knowledge of a juvenile, indecent behavior with a juvenile, second-degree cruelty to a juvenile, contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile, possession of child sexual abuse material, computer-aided solicitation of a minor, and stalking.

Investigators with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigations’ Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force advised that Jeane was believed to be in the DeSoto Parish area. During the ongoing investigation, DeSoto Parish investigators uncovered additional evidence, resulting in 134 more felony counts related to the possession of child sexual abuse material, along with an additional count of indecent behavior with juveniles.

Jeane is currently being booked into the DeSoto Parish Detention Center. Due to the sensitive nature of the case and to protect the victim or victims, no further details are being released at this time.

Sheriff Jayson Richardson expressed appreciation to all agencies involved for their swift action in bringing the suspect into custody.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

---

DeSoto Parish residents should prepare for a wet midweek followed by a sharp drop in temperatures and the potential for hazardous winter weather this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Steady rain is expected throughout Wednesday, with highs near 58 degrees and southeast winds around 5 mph. Rain chances remain high at 90 percent.

Showers will continue into Wednesday night, mainly before midnight, under cloudy skies. Overnight lows will fall to around 48 degrees as winds shift to the north at about 5 mph. Rain chances decrease slightly to 60 percent.

Thursday remains cloudy with a 20 percent chance of rain before noon and highs near 59. Thursday night stays overcast with lows around 45 and a slight chance of rain.

By Friday, clouds persist with a 30 percent chance of rain developing mainly after noon. Highs will reach near 53 degrees. Conditions take a dramatic turn Friday night as temperatures plunge to around 25 degrees. Rain is expected before midnight, then transitions into a mix of rain, freezing rain, and sleet. The chance of precipitation rises to 70 percent.

Saturday brings the greatest concern, with freezing rain and sleet likely throughout the day. Highs will struggle to reach 31 degrees, increasing the risk of icy roads, bridges, and power lines. Saturday night remains mostly cloudy with lows near 20 and continued chances for freezing rain and sleet.

Sunday offers slight improvement, with partly sunny skies and a small chance of freezing rain. Highs will hover near 35 degrees before temperatures dip to around 19 Sunday night.

Conditions improve Monday with mostly sunny skies and a high near 43.

Residents are urged to monitor forecasts closely and prepare for possible winter weather impacts from late Friday through the weekend, including dangerous travel conditions and potential power outages.

---

Coach Odom was named the Division 2 Non-Select Coach of the Year, recognizing his outstanding leadership, dedication, and success on the field. In addition, he received the Tony Robicheaux Ethics Award, the highest honor given by the Louisiana Baseball Coaches Association (LBCA). This award celebrates coaches who demonstrate exceptional sportsmanship, integrity, and commitment to the values of the game.

“Coach Odom’s hard work, character, and passion for developing young athletes both on and off the field make him truly deserving of these awards,” said school officials.

The North DeSoto community joins in celebrating Coach Odom’s remarkable achievements, which highlight his leadership and dedication to excellence in high school athletics.

---

Student internships across the DeSoto Parish School District are off to a strong start this semester, giving seniors the opportunity to earn both course credit and a paycheck while gaining valuable real-world experience.

District officials report that 28 seniors are currently participating in paid internships, working in positions within the school district and with local industry partners. The program allows students to apply skills learned in the classroom to hands-on job settings, bridging the gap between education and employment.

Educators say the experience goes beyond technical training. Students are developing critical “soft skills” such as communication, time management, teamwork, and professionalism—traits that are essential for success in any career.

“These internships are preparing our students to enter the workforce with confidence after graduation,” district leaders said. “They are learning what it means to be responsible employees while discovering career paths that fit their interests and strengths.”

The district views the internship program as a key investment in the future of its students and the local workforce, helping build a pipeline of prepared, motivated young professionals for DeSoto Parish and beyond.

---

In a world of endless alerts and nonstop trends, the public’s attention rarely makes it past the loading screen before the next “new thing” drops.

---

Hall Summit is preparing for a big day of action, community spirit, and charitable giving as the Hall Summit Community Center & Park hosts a full slate of events on Saturday, February 28, 2026, all benefiting Pilots for Patients.

The all-day event will bring together motorcycle riders, barbecue teams, outdoor sportsmen, vendors, and families for a cause that provides critical air transportation for patients in medical need.

One of the highlights of the day will be the Don Bernard Memorial Poker Run, which will begin at 3 State Harley-Davidson in Bossier City before riders make their way to Hall Summit. Motorcycles, cars, Jeeps, and clubs are all welcome to participate, honoring Bernard’s legacy while supporting the life-saving mission of Pilots for Patients.

Also on the schedule is a BBQ Cook-Off, featuring a non-traditional two-meat competition with half chicken and ribs. Teams will compete for bragging rights and prizes, with an entry fee of $150. Smoke will be in the air as pits fire up for what organizers expect to be a competitive and crowd-pleasing cook-off.

Outdoor excitement continues with a Wild Hog Live Catch Tournament, offering 40 award buckles and action throughout the day. The tournament is expected to draw participants from across the region.

In addition to the main events, attendees can enjoy a silent auction, raffles, vendors, concessions, and a variety of family-friendly activities, making the day accessible for all ages.

The event will take place at Hall Summit Community Center & Park, located at 1170 First Street in Hall Summit.

All proceeds from the day will go directly to Pilots for Patients, a nonprofit organization that coordinates free air transportation for patients facing serious medical challenges.

Organizers say the event is about more than competition and entertainment — it’s about honoring a legacy, supporting a life-saving cause, and showcasing the strength of a small community coming together for something bigger.

---

The LSU AgCenter DeSoto Parish Extension Office is asking residents to take part in a brief survey to help guide the future of local Nutrition and Community Health Programs.

Officials say community feedback is essential in shaping programs that best serve parish residents, from nutrition education to wellness initiatives. The short survey is designed to gather input on needs, interests, and priorities within DeSoto Parish.

Residents can participate by scanning the QR code provided by the Extension Office or by visiting the online survey link at:
https://forms.office.com/r/Lb639XZWct

The LSU AgCenter encourages all parish residents to take a few moments to complete the survey, noting that every response helps ensure upcoming programs reflect the real needs of the community.

This is an opportunity for our residents to have a direct voice in the services and programs we offer,” officials said. “Your input will help us better serve DeSoto Parish.”

---

By Steve Graf    

Nothing has shaken the bass fishing world more than forward-facing sonar (FFS). While I’ve given my perspective on this technology and how it’s affected the bass tournament world, I’m now wondering what’s next? Understand, this is my perspective, as I have no inside knowledge from anyone.

One thing that we know for sure, the big three fishing electronic companies (Garmin, Humminbird and Lowrance) are not going to stop building a better mouse trap. Their engineers are paid to be innovative and are aways looking to make improvements and advancements with regards to their technology.

Today’s sonar units are crazy good! You can literally see the swimming action of the tail on a bass. No fish is safe anymore and no fish can hide from today’s electronics.

One thing that is probably coming next will be the ability to identify the fish you’re seeing on the screen without guessing. Is that a bass, crappie or a carp? Knowledgeable anglers can do that today if they’re really good with their electronics and if they have studied and understand fish behavior.

But I think these companies are going to figure out a way to tell you exactly what species of fish you are seeing on your screen. They are going to continue to simplify the visual aspect of what you’re seeing on the screen.

Next, get ready for live video! This already exists with a company called Aqua-Vu. (It’s just not allowed in tournaments.) These have been out for a few years and to let everyone in on a little secret: several bass touring pros already use this unit for scouting, but don’t want the public to know.

Look for new camera units from one of the big three electronic companies, probably in association with “Go Pro Cameras,” to be the first to introduce this new way of seeing fish on our screens.

Many people are asking the question, “Where does all this stop?” Here’s the bottom line. There’s no stopping technological advancement. It won’t stop until people quit paying the prices they are asking for all these electronic advancements. If anglers are willing to pay, companies will continue to build bigger and better units.

Here’s the problem; just follow the money! All these electronic companies are pumping thousands of dollars into these professional bass fishing organizations as sponsors, forcing B.A.S.S. and Major League Fishing (MLF) to allow pro anglers to use forward-facing sonar.

I think we are getting to the point where these organizations are going to have to decide what’s more important — sponsorship support or the integrity of the sport? They also need to ask themselves if this new technology is good for the sport in the long run on the professional level.

You can say what you want, but forward-facing sonar (FFS) in bass tournaments is destroying the sport. I’m personally not against FFS for the everyday angler. I think it’s great tool for fun fishing and catching crappie.

I’m even OK with it for local bass tournaments on the amateur level. But when it comes to professional anglers using it on pro tournament trails, I am not a fan and it should be disallowed.

This is the same as Major League Baseball allowing the use of aluminum bats. It’s just not good for the sport of baseball! Hopefully the pro tours will do the right thing and eliminate FFS completely.

The biggest complaints about FFS come from the older generation of anglers, not the young guns on the rise. The young kids today have been raised with FFS from day one and really understand how to use it, giving them a huge advantage over the older anglers.

This could all play out another way. Pro tours may just wait out this issue with FFS and let this older group of anglers walk away or retire because five years from now, FFS won’t even be an issue at all.

So, what’s the next big issue going to be? Probably something totally different, as the electronic companies continue to make improvements and advancements with their electronic units. Only time will tell!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

---

If you grew up in the 1960s, you remember that nightly publicservice announcement that came on right before the late news: “It’s 10 PM. Do you know where your children are?”

Of course, our parents didn’t know where we were. It was the 60s. Half the time we didn’t know where we were. Childhood back then was a freerange, unsupervised, loosely organized adventure involving bicycles with no helmets, creeks with questionable water quality, and a general understanding that you should be home “before dark,” which could mean anything from 5:30 PM to the next morning depending on the season and your mother’s mood.

Today’s parents track their children with GPS, Bluetooth, satellite imaging, and—if necessary—a drone. In the 60s, the only tracking device was your mother’s voice hollering your name across three neighborhoods like a foghorn powered by righteous indignation. And somehow, that worked.

Back then, if you told your mom, you were “going outside,” that was considered a complete itinerary. No one asked followup questions. No one needed a permission slip. You could be building a treehouse, digging a hole to China, or accidentally setting something on fire. As long as you came home eventually and didn’t bleed on the carpet, you were considered a successful child.

And yet, for all the differences between then and now, one thing hasn’t changed: every generation has to figure out life—and faith—for themselves.

My generation grew up with three TV channels, rotary phones, and the theological certainty that if you ran in church, God would personally trip you. Today’s kids grow up with smartphones, streaming services, and the ability to Google “Why does my pastor say that?” during the sermon. (Please don’t tell me if you’ve done this.)

But here’s the truth: faith has never been something you inherit like your grandmother’s casserole dish. Each generation has to discover Christ anew—sometimes in ways that surprise the generation before them. And the church, if it wants to stay alive and not become the spiritual equivalent of lukewarm leftovers, has to let the Holy Spirit shape it into a living, breathing, organic body of Christ—not a museum of how things used to be.

The kids who grew up hearing “It’s 10 PM—do you know where your children are?” are now grandparents watching their own grandkids navigate a world we couldn’t have imagined. And just like our parents trusted us to find our way home before dark, we can trust that God is guiding this new generation toward their own encounter with grace.

So the next time you worry about “kids these days,” remember: our parents survived us. And God, who has been faithful through every generation—from rotary phones to TikTok—will be faithful still.

And if you’re reading this after 10 PM, don’t worry. God knows where His children are. Always has.

Always will.

---

Paula was born in 1896. In 1903, when Paula was six years old, her father died from a lung hemorrhage. Her mother was left with only his meager pension to raise Paula and her brother. In 1907, when Paula was 11 years old and her brother was 18, her mother died from breast cancer. The government provided them with a small pension to ease their burden. Paula’s brother, a romantic, idealistic, and fantasy-oriented teenager, was away at the time of his mother’s death studying fine arts. He dreamed of being a famous artist. He wanted everyone around the world to know his name. He had little money, but he knew he would have better opportunities to earn money than his 11-year-old sister, so he selflessly transferred his share of the pension to her. Paula’s brother sometimes sold a watercolor painting or two to get by, but most of the time he took whatever manual labor job he could get.

For years, Paula and her brother had little contact. When they saw each other they bickered, as most siblings do but they had genuine affection for each other. Paula’s brother struggled to build his reputation as a painter. They both took menial jobs just to survive. He fought during World War I but never gave up on his dream. After the war, he tried to build his reputation as an artist again, but few people had money to buy non-essential items such as watercolor paintings. Paula’s brother began working in politics, but continued painting. When Paula lost her job because of her connection to him, he began sending her money each month to help. He fought during World War II and painted when he had the opportunity. Paula’s brother considered himself, “an artist by nature and not a politician.” He said, “I will end my life as an artist.” In April 1945, Paula saw her brother for the last time. During their visit, they talked for a short time. When it was time for her to leave, he gave her a large amount of money. Two weeks later, he died from a gunshot wound.

Paula lived off the money that her brother had given her for several years and then returned to menial jobs for survival. She died in poverty in 1960. At the time of Paula’s brother’s death, few people knew him as an artist. Now, practically everyone knows his name. His paintings are in collections all over the world and often fetch high prices when they come up for auction. Sometimes, people protest the sale of his paintings. Most people are interested in his paintings, not because of their beauty, but for another reason entirely. For several decades, Paula Wolff kept a secret. She was living under an assumed last name. In the 1930s, Paula’s brother insisted that she adopt the last name Wolff to shield her from his reputation. He was still protecting her. You see, Paula’s real last name was Hitler. Her brother was Adolf.

 

Sources:

1. Daily News (Sydney, Australia), September 22, 1939, p.1.

2. The Daily News Leader (Staunton, Virginia), November 22, 1992, p.8.

3. The Bolton News, September 27, 2006, p.4.

4. “Alois Hitler Sr.,” Find a Grave, accessed January 10, 2026, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11646/alois-hitler.

5. “Klara Pölzl Hitler,” Find a Grave, accessed January 10, 2026, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11645/klara-hitler.

---

On January 21, 1793, King Louis XVI of France was executed by guillotine in Paris, a moment that irrevocably altered the course of French and European history. The execution marked a dramatic escalation of the French Revolution and symbolized the collapse of centuries-old monarchy.

Louis XVI ascended the throne in 1774 during a time of economic strain and social inequality. France faced crushing debt, widespread poverty, and resentment toward an aristocracy seen as detached from the struggles of ordinary citizens. Revolutionary ideas gained momentum, fueled by Enlightenment philosophies advocating liberty, equality, and popular sovereignty.

Following the storming of the Bastille in 1789, the monarchy’s authority steadily eroded. Louis XVI was eventually arrested and charged with treason, accused of conspiring against the nation and attempting to undermine the revolution. His trial before the National Convention was unprecedented, placing a reigning monarch on trial by his own people.

The execution itself was swift but symbolic. As the guillotine blade fell in the Place de la Révolution, it sent shockwaves across Europe. Monarchies feared similar uprisings within their own borders, while revolutionaries viewed the act as a decisive break from tyranny. France soon found itself at war with several European powers determined to suppress revolutionary ideals.

Domestically, the execution intensified political divisions. The revolution entered its most violent phase, known as the Reign of Terror, as leaders sought to eliminate perceived enemies of the state. Thousands were executed in the name of protecting the revolution, leaving a legacy of both radical change and profound loss.

January 21 remains one of the most significant dates of the French Revolution. The death of Louis XVI transformed a reform movement into a full-scale revolution, redefining governance, citizenship, and the balance of power in modern societies.

---

Here’s my latest Q & A

About Ida

Beginnings are tricky, but here we are—fresh page, blinking cursor, and a head full of questions. I’m Ida B. Torn, a lifelong Southerner from Kenner, Louisiana, who’s spent years working in newsrooms, design studios, and public service. I’ve seen my share of life’s chaos and comedy—and learned that sometimes, folks just need straight answers and a little laughter along the way.

Paid Content

---

Judy Lynn Bissell Daniels
June 23, 1954 — January 17, 2026
Visitation: Wednesday, January 21 from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.at Rose-Neath Funeral Home
Services: Thursday, January 22 at 2:00 p.m. at Old Union Baptist Church

Nancy Louise Watson
September 22, 1959 — January 18, 2026
Not yet available

Gladys Mae Norris
02/15/1947 – 01/15/2026
Visitation: Friday January 23 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Graveside Saturday January 24 at 11:00 a.m. at theCommunity Cemetery

Sarah Sean Clay
02/16/1942 – 01/14/2026
Visitation: Friday January 23 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home
Services: Saturday January 24 at 11:00 a.m. at Mary Evergreen B.C.

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

---

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.

At the school board meeting, DeSoto Parish Schools proudly honored outstanding staff members as part of their monthly Employee Recognition Program.

The January honorees include:

Support Staff of the Month: Anthony Green, LHS

Teacher of the Month: Scott Ziegler, MHS

New Teacher of the Month: Shamika Belton, MMS

Leader of the Month: Krystalline Meshell, NDHS

“These individuals go above and beyond every day to make a positive impact in our schools,” said school officials.

DeSoto Parish Schools also expressed gratitude to community partners Aneca Federal Credit Union, Alera Group, MarketPlace Chevrolet Stonewall, and RBW Consulting for sponsoring and supporting the recognition program. Their partnership helps highlight the dedication and excellence of the people shaping students’ lives across the parish.

---

Residents across DeSoto Parish can expect a stretch of mostly sunny skies and cooler temperatures through the end of the week and into the holiday weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will bring mostly sunny conditions with a high near 61 degrees. Winds will shift from the southwest to the northwest during the morning hours, blowing between 5 and 15 mph with gusts that could reach 20 mph. Skies will remain mostly clear Wednesday night, with temperatures dipping to around 33 degrees.

Thursday ushers in cooler air, with sunny skies and a high near 49. Clear conditions will continue into

Thursday night, as lows settle near 34.

Warmer temperatures return slightly on Friday, with sunshine and a high near 59. Friday night will remain mostly clear, with lows around 35.

The weekend will continue the trend of dry, bright weather. Saturday will be mostly sunny with a high near 53, followed by a mostly clear night and a low around 32. Sunday stays sunny with a high near 52, and temperatures will fall to near 29 Sunday night under clear skies.Looking ahead to Monday, Martin Luther King Jr. Day will be sunny with a high near 54—ideal weather for outdoor activities and community events.

Overall, the forecast offers a calm and pleasant stretch, with cool mornings, mild afternoons, and plenty of sunshine for DeSoto Parish.

---

Residents of DeSoto Parish and surrounding areas are invited to explore the world of beekeeping through a new educational series hosted by the LSU AgCenter. The four-part “Beginning Beekeeping” program will kick off on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, offering aspiring beekeepers a hands-on introduction to this growing and rewarding practice.

The first session will guide participants through the basics of getting started, including how to acquire bees, the essential equipment needed, and tips for proper hive placement. Designed for beginners and the bee-curious alike, the program provides a practical foundation for anyone interested in raising honeybees.

Throughout the four-part series, participants will learn about:

Beekeeping basics

Essential equipment

Hive health and management

The life cycle of honeybees, forage sources, and more

Classes will be held at the Red River Parish Extension Office, located at 1919 Alonzo Street in Coushatta.

The series aims to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence needed to successfully start and maintain a hive.

Those interested are encouraged to RSVP. For more information, contact Randall Mallette at 318-932-4342.

The “Beginning Beekeeping” series offers a unique opportunity for residents to gain practical skills while learning about the vital role honeybees play in agriculture and the environment.

---

Northwestern State University has announced its Honor List, Dean’s List, and President’s List for the Fall 2025 semester, recognizing students for outstanding academic achievement. Students on the Honor List earned grade point averages between 3.0 and 3.49, Dean’s List honorees posted GPAs from 3.5 to 3.99, and President’s List students achieved a perfect 4.0 while enrolled full time.

The following students from communities across DeSoto Parish were recognized:

Honor List (GPA 3.0–3.49)

Frierson: Elizabeth Bryant, Bella Sandefur

Gloster: Cameron Curtis, Raven Fields

Grand Cane: Carli Hanks

Logansport: Kelsey Bolden, Ava Vowell

Mansfield: Shaniyah Blaze, Mckayla Courtney, Darrian Hall, Shayoni Hudson, Ladeidre Jackson, Valentina Puac, Rhiannon Sims, Makayla Terrell

Pelican: Madison Mcquiddy

Stonewall: Alexandria Cole, Ariel Cooke, Mya Dunn, Brooklyn Fowler, Courtney Johnson, Abigail Jones, Elana Sepulvado, Devanee Simon, Emily Turner, Xaria Turner, Mary-Elizabeth Widener

Dean’s List (GPA 3.5–3.99)

Frierson: Joshua Bouriaque, Jozey Isom

Gloster: Alexis Procell, Ellianna Ruiz

Logansport: Alexa Gannon, Emily Lagars, Jasmine Odom

Mansfield: Brittany Davis, Elizabeth Houston, Amanda Johnson, Nysia Samuels-Rochelle, Kemariya Thomas

Stonewall: Lacy Carney, Natalie Cobb, Sierra Dean, Aly Delafield, Tyler Erario, Hunter Hanson, Madison Jones, Amber Melton, Madison Pender, Lauren Perot, Jordan Porterfield, Kirsten Sepulvado, Macy Wiley, Gabriel Williams, Madison Woods

President’s List (GPA 4.0)

Frierson: Angelina Lee

Gloster: Dakota Boyd, Makayla Butler

Logansport: Hayden Dowden, Javier Sanchez, Jaylie Smith

Mansfield: Shacobie Gray, LaQuista Pegues, Paulette Rambin, LaQuinta Sudds

Stonewall: Rhyan Floyd, Anna Giddens, Abagail McInnis, Braedon Theodos, Laylen Wallace

Keatchie: Arianna Findley

These students represent the academic excellence found throughout DeSoto Parish. Northwestern State University officials noted that students on these lists must be enrolled full time and meet strict grade point average requirements.

---

One of the great joys of ministry is baptizing infants. We Methodists believe that God does the baptizing—we’re just the human instruments of His gracious activity. And because we’re Methodists, we’re so laid back about it that we offer the full buffet: immersion, sprinkling, and the mysterious middle option known as affusion.

If you’ve never seen affusion, imagine a college prank that somehow wandered into the sanctuary and got canonized. For the uninitiated, affusion is simply pouring water over the candidate’s head. It’s the liturgical equivalent of someone saying, “Hold still, this won’t hurt… probably.”

Most babies are adorable, and I love holding them for those few sacred moments. But sometimes the baptismal waters are troubled. One Sunday, little Junior had a pacifier in his mouth. Before I took him from his mother, she reached in and pulled the pin. Now, taking a pacifier from a baby and pulling the pin on a grenade share certain similarities. In both cases, you brace yourself, because the next sound you hear will not be angelic.

Some infants, on the other hand, fall asleep in my arms midbaptism. They’re so peaceful and precious. I’ve been in ministry long enough that those sleeping cherubs are now full members of the church—and they still fall asleep in my arms, only now it’s during the sermon. So the next time you see a brother or sister snoozing in the pew, feel free to wonder whether they slept through their baptism too. And remember: every one of them was once a cute baby… or at least someone said they were.

But here’s the part that stops me in my tracks: many of the infants I’ve baptized recently will live to see the year 2100. I will not. They will witness things we can’t imagine. Think of the changes you’ve seen in your lifetime. Technology evolves so fast it makes your head spin. A decade ago, we were introduced to the smartphone. Before that, our phones were not very bright. They were basically pocket bricks that could call your mama and maybe play Snake if you were lucky. Now they can do everything except fold the laundry—and I’m sure that’s coming.

So the next time you see an infant, be amazed. You are looking at someone who will experience a century you will never see. Pray for them. Pray that they inherit a world shaped more by compassion than conflict. Pray that our technology builds community instead of tearing it apart. Pray that they grow up knowing peace, and knowing the astonishing power human beings have to love one another.

Because the future they will live in is the future we hand them. Through them, you and I get to touch a world beyond our years. That’s worth pondering the next time you’re in the presence of a child.Maybe that’s why this story is in the sacred text:

Parents brought their children to Jesus so He could bless them. The disciples tried to shoo them away—because apparently even in the first century, church people were good at gatekeeping. But Jesus was having none of it. He said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them. The Kingdom belongs to such as these.” And then He gathered them up, placed His hands on their tiny heads, and blessed them.

Pray for a child.

They hold the keys to the kingdom.And they hold the future we will never see—but God will.

---

By Steve Graf    

I’ve always wondered what makes one athlete better than another. Why do some excel more than others? Is there a secret pill or an exercise regimen that makes them better? Well today we’ll ask the same questions about bass tournament anglers.

I’ve heard for years that no angler has learned anything without another angler telling them. While this might be true in a few cases, I’m not sure that’s the case with everyone.

So many of today’s anglers have learned so much through the internet and on YouTube. You can literally learn any technique and know when to use it simply by watching a YouTube channel.

Want to learn how to use your electronics? Watch YouTube! Want to learn about a drop-shot, Carolina Rig, or how to flip a jig? Watch YouTube! Want to understand how to fix an issue with your boat? Watch YouTube! It’s an endless resource of information.

But the older generation of anglers, like me, has learned through trial and error. We’ve learned from other anglers who came before us how to get better or how to fix an issue we’re having with our boats. We didn’t always have the internet as a resource. But there was one resource that came by mail once a month: Bassmaster Magazine!

This was my generation’s internet. Every issue in the mailbox addressed everything from different ways to catch bass, to how to replace a water pump or change the oil in the lower unit of the motor. Today, I’m still a subscriber to not only Bassmaster Magazine, but another publication called B.A.S.S. Times.

But just like great athletes, there’s something different about anglers who win more than others. The first thing I have noticed is their confidence level is usually high. They believe in what they are doing to catch bass and they understand bass behavior.

Another trait I’ve noticed is how the top anglers tend to think outside of the box. They don’t follow common trends or thought patterns other anglers do. Most of these winning anglers tend to do things a little differently.

I believe that the great anglers like Kevin Van Dam, Dustin Connell, Jacob Wheeler and the late Aaron Martens, each possess a sixth sense. They tend to think a little differently than the average bear. They don’t always follow traditional thinking when it comes to how they should be catching bass.

A phrase commonly used by these exceptional anglers is that “they let the fish tell them what and how they want the bait.” Saying this to the average angler means nothing, but to the great anglers, it explains a lot.

They don’t try to force a technique onto the bass. Every angler always has a game plan going into the tournament based on what and how they caught bass in practice. But on tournament day, the great anglers are not afraid to abandon that game plan and change their approach in the middle of the day.

I’ve also found that great anglers are really good at reading the water. To those who don’t bass fish, this is something that’s a gift that not all anglers have. They can literally walk up to the edge of the lake and tell you how they will catch them on that day just by looking at the water.

The great anglers have abilities just like great athletes. They have intangibles that make them special that some call the ‘it” factor. You can’t coach “it,” you’re born with “it.”

While all anglers can get better by spending time on the water, reading magazines or watching You Tube videos, there will always be those anglers who possess something that cannot be measured…God-given talent!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

---

These days, the campaign trail doesn’t wind through town halls — it runs straight through your phone. This cartoon takes a swipe at modern politics, where selfies, likes, and viral moments can matter more than boring old things like healthcare or infrastructure. When the algorithm is watching, the question becomes: is the goal to solve problems, or just rack up views?

---

Jerry Hubbard was a singer/songwriter. In February 1967, Hubbard released his first album, but it failed to reach the top 100 charts. He had recorded singles as early as 1955, when he was 18 years old, but after twelve years in the industry a hit song still eluded him. Disc jockeys occasionally played songs from his debut album on the radio, one of which peaked at No. 53 on the Billboard country music charts, but still no hit song. Critics compared his voice to the sound of a bandsaw. Hubbard admitted, “I can sing, but I’m not a polished, theoretical singer,” but he kept trying.

A few weeks later, Elvis Presley, who regularly listened to the radio in search of songs to record, heard one of Hubbard’s songs and loved it. He decided he wanted to record a version of it. Elvis and his band gathered at Studio B in Nashville and began working on the song, but there was a problem. Elvis was disappointed with the result. Despite numerous attempts, they were unable to get a sound that suited Elvis. Producer Felton Jarvis told Elvis that the key to the song was the lead guitar which Scotty Moore was unable to duplicate. Jarvis said that if he wanted that sound, he needed to get Hubbard in the studio because he played the lead guitar part. Elvis agreed. Elvis and his band worked on other songs while Jarvis began searching for Hubbard. Jarvis located Hubbard’s wife, but she explained that Hubbard had taken his daughters fishing on the Cumberland River just outside of Nashville. Once Jarvis explained the situation, Hubbard’s wife rushed to the river. Hubbard was in disbelief. He had been performing Elvis songs live for years. Hubbard called the studio and explained that it would take him a while to get there. Hubbard did not take the time to shower, change clothes, or shave. He later explained that he had not shaved in several days and reeked of fish. He grabbed his guitar and headed to the studio. Hubbard quipped, “I was there in about twelve and a half minutes.”

Everyone was shocked at Hubbard’s appearance as he walked into the studio. That all changed when Hubbard began playing the intro to the song. Hubbard recalled, “[Elvis’s] face lit up and here we went.” In about as much time as it took Hubbard to drive to the studio, twelve and a half minutes, they had a recording that Elvis was thrilled about. That song, “Guitar Man”, went to No. 1 on the country charts.

Hubbard was thrilled that one of his songs reached the No. 1 position even though it was recorded by another artist. In 1971, Hubbard finally took one of his own songs to No. 1 on the country charts, “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot”. He recorded other hit songs such as “Amos Moses”, “The Bird”, “She Got the Goldmine (I Got the Shaft)”, and “East Bound and Down”, which was the theme song for the iconic film in which he co-starred with Burt Reynolds, Smokey and the Bandit. Few people remember the name Jerry Hubbard, but it all becomes clear when you see his full name, Jerry Reed Hubbard.

 

Source: “Jerry Reed Impromptu Gearz Interview, Part 4,” G V, Youtube.com, July 9, 2010, https://youtu.be/bF9te3INOZ0?si=9e0PKUyycdsJrzEV.

---

The Latest Question & Answer

---

By Nutrition Agent, Erin Stockton

Recipe of the Month: Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes

 

Bring a little Italian flavor to your dinner table with this simple, diabetes-friendly parmesan crusted chicken recipe. Serve with a side of zesty pasta salad for a balanced meal the whole family will love. For more information about healthy eating and active living, contact your local LSU AgCenter nutrition & community health agent, Erin Stockton (estockton@agcenter.lsu.edu).

Ingredients:

Vegetable cooking spray
3 (6 – 8 oz.) boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into even strips
1 ½ cups low-fat or non-fat plain yogurt
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons no salt Creole seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and spray the cooking sheet with vegetable cooking spray.
Cut chicken breast into even sized strips.
Place chicken strips in yogurt and refrigerate while preparing the rest of the ingredients.
In a dish, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, no salt creole seasoning, and garlic powder.
Coat each piece of chicken with yogurt and dredge in crumb mixture, pressing down on both sides to get a coating of crumbs.
Place chicken stripes on the cookie sheet that has been sprayed with vegetable cooking spray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is tender and juice runs clear, or to the safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

Erin Stockton is a Nutrition Agent with the LSU AgCenter in DeSoto, Sabine, 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 & Natchitoches Nutrition & Community Health.

---