Three DeSoto Parish graduating seniors have been named recipients of the 2026 Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association Scholarship, recognizing their academic achievement and future educational goals.

Each year, the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association selects one graduating senior from every parish in Louisiana to receive a $1,000 scholarship to assist with college and educational expenses.
DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson expanded the local program by personally funding two additional $1,000 scholarships for DeSoto Parish students, bringing the total number of recipients in the parish to three.

This year’s scholarship recipients are:

Luke Odom Delafield — North DeSoto High School

Caroline Grace Magee — Logansport High School

Trace Allen Ogle — North DeSoto High School

According to the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office, scholarship funds may be used by recipients for a variety of educational expenses, including books, meals, clothing, school supplies, housing, and other college-related needs.

Sheriff Richardson said he strongly believes in investing in the future of DeSoto Parish students and supporting young adults as they continue their education beyond high school.

Officials noted that scholarship application information was distributed earlier this year through the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office Facebook page and shared with schools throughout the parish prior to the application deadline.

Recipients were selected by a volunteer committee made up of individuals outside of the sheriff’s office. DPSO officials expressed appreciation to those volunteers for their time and commitment in helping review applications and select recipients from what was described as a highly talented group of students across the parish.

The sheriff’s office congratulated all three students on their accomplishments and wished them continued success as they begin the next chapter of their educational journeys. 

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) approved a Notice of Intent (NOI) for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) to conduct a recreational alligator hunting season from Oct. 1-31, 2026. The action came during the LWFC’s May meeting Thursday (May 7) in Baton Rouge.

“We are proud to increase recreational opportunity for Louisiana sportsmen and women across the state with this exciting new season,” said LDWF Secretary Tyler Bosworth. “The American Alligator is a true conservation success story, and by being able to have a recreational season, we are able to further promote this success and the rich hunting heritage that makes up the Louisiana way of life.”

The recreational season would be separate from the commercial season. Properties already issued commercial harvest tags are excluded from recreational eligibility. Alligators, hides, meat and parts taken under a recreational hide tag may not be sold, bartered or commingled with commercial-tag alligators.

The recreational season would be conducted by lottery. Only Louisiana residents may apply. A total of 5,000 participants would be selected with two recreational alligator hide tags issued to each participant. Immediate tag attachment upon harvest and tag validation within 72 hours via department portal, LA Wallet, phone, or LouisianaOutdoors.com, is required.

Method of take is restricted to hook and line, or snatch hook only — anchored, tethered, or originating from immovable eligible property with written landowner permission. Pole hunting and free shooting is prohibited.

There would be eight zones statewide with recreational opportunity in each zone. Zones B and C would have 1,250 participants, Zone A 500 participants and zones D, E, F, G and H 400 participants each.. A recreational alligator hunter must possess a basic hunting license, the recreational alligator hunting license, valid recreational hide tags and written proof of land ownership or permission.  A recreational alligator hunting license would be $25 for residents and $150 for non-residents.

To see the full NOI, visit the LDWF Alligator Hunting webpage.

Public comment on the NOI will be accepted through June 26. Comments may be submitted to LDWF Alligator Program Manager Jeb Linscombe at LDWF, 200 Dulles Drive, Lafayette, LA, 70506, or by email at jlinscombe@wlf.la.gov.

I’ve always heard the saying that “some things never change,” but that would not be the case for bass tournaments. When you look back at tournament participation over the last 10 years, one thing is very apparent; anglers have walked away from bass tournaments. 

Let’s look at some of the reasons that might explain why participation is down. But understand this, you can’t point your finger at just one reason. First and foremost, we are living in a different time as compared to the hay day of tournament bass fishing that was the 1990s and early 2000s.

After the conclusion of the COVID outbreak in 2021, for some reason tournament participation has gone south. Tournaments were at full strength during COVID as anglers were looking for an escape from isolation. Bass boat sales were out the roof nationwide with people retreating to the outdoors. 

All the major tournament trails were filling up with a maximum number of entries anywhere from 200 to 300 boats or more. But a couple of years after COVID, for whatever reason, anglers quit showing up. 

That was about the time forward-facing sonar became an issue. Nothing in the last 40 years has had as much controversial impact than forward-facing sonar. 

Now I’m not pointing the finger at this alone because it may be just a coincidence that anglers were dropping out of tournaments. But for the last five years, anglers have come up with other reasons for not fishing competitively. 

Some say it’s the economy, but I’m not totally buying into this idea. One thing about bass tournament anglers, they will do whatever it takes to make sure they can still compete even if it means selling their youngest child or their wife getting a second job in order to save enough money for them to fish the next tournament. 

While I’m joking about them selling their youngest child, there is one thing that seems to be a common variable to anglers not showing up: gas prices! Back in 2014 when a tank of gas cost you an arm and a leg ($4 a gallon), anglers decided to park their high-dollar bass boats.

While gas prices can have an influence on whether anglers fish or not, presently we are once again on the verge of anglers parking their boats as gas prices continue to rise due to the war with Iran. 

Here’s a major concern of mine that I think is having a negative effect on tournaments … cheaters! Over the last two years, there have been more anglers disqualified for rules violations and more people who have been caught cheating. 

This has given the sport a black eye and is just another reason anglers are thinking twice before entering a tournament. They just don’t trust that someone is not cheating! Even on local weeknight shootouts, there have been anglers caught cheating just to win a couple hundred dollars. 

So, even with all the reasons we’ve mentioned, one angler recently summed it up as to why tournament participation is down nationwide: “It’s just not fun any more!”

Very few of us fish for a living. We love tournaments because we enjoy the comradery and the competition. Most guys are perfectly happy if they just get a check to help cover their gas, hotel and food. 

But it’s sad that we live in a world today where there will always be a couple of bad apples that can ruin it for everybody. I just hope that one day anglers can look forward to fishing a tournament and not have to worry if someone is cheating. 

Hopefully the heyday of tournament bass fishing is not over. But it’s going to take time for some anglers to return to the sport they love. Tournament organizations are in a pickle today trying to figure out the formula that will encourage tournament anglers to return.

Every tournament trail is always attempting to get more anglers to enter their events. Their dilemma is trying to figure out who should be their target demographic group. Should they cater to the younger generation (18 to 34) or try to get the 35 and older anglers back? 

There’s one key component they’ll need to factor in when getting more anglers to return; they must gain their trust again.   

The Natchitoches Jazz&R&B Festival, which is celebrating its 29th year on May 15-16 is widely regarded as one of the top if not, THE top music festivals in north Louisiana. 

According to festival chairman Rodney Harrington, the event is the culmination of a year long community effort and would not be possible without the generous support of area businesses, concertgoers, and musicians.

“First and foremost, we have a super hard-working board of directors and core group of volunteers who work all year long for no other reason than to help provide good quality musical entertainment for the people of our area and beyond,” said Harrington.

“The festival simply wouldn’t happen without the generosity of our sponsors or partners as we call them”, Harrington continued, “they step up to the plate year after year and allow us to put on a top quality festival featuring A-list artists  and first class sound and production.”

Harrington did say that ticket sales are critical, however, and at the end of the day, it’s all about putting” butts in the seats.”

“With advance online ticket sales, we are able to track where our purchases are coming from and it’s pretty eye-opening,” Harrington said, “ we have folks coming to this festival from literally all over the country, although we rely heavily upon people who are in driving distance.”

He encourages local businesses which, for whatever reason, did not become sponsors, to please consider buying tickets to give to their employees and/or customers. 

Harrington says that the festival was started over 30 years ago mainly to provide a venue for local musicians to perform and it still maintains its loyalty to that group.

“The lineup of performers includes lots of local acts and they are going to be amongst the best you’ll see at the festival, “says Harrington.

For the first time, this year’s festival will feature a stage where all performers will play only their original music.  This will be in the beautiful setting of Beau Jardin and will be presented in cooperation with The Natchitoches Original Music Showcase.

BREAKING NEWS ALERT:  VIP TICKETS ARE NEARLY SOLD OUT AND THE JAZZ FEST BOARD ANTICIPATES TERMINATING THE FURTHER SALE OF THOSE TICKETS IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. 

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.natchjazzfest.com

Graduation season is officially here, which means students across Louisiana are preparing for one of life’s biggest milestones… and one of its longest ceremonies. Between the packed auditoriums, nervous sweating, endless speeches, and the fear of tripping on stage, every graduate knows survival requires a few essentials: graduation cords, a portable fan, sunglasses for hiding tired eyes from cramming for finals, and a fully charged phone ready for photos the second it’s over.

Several years ago, a radio station in San Francisco conducted a nonscientific listener survey. Sixty-eight percent of the people surveyed were for it. Twenty percent were against it. The remaining twelve percent had no opinion on the matter. So the radio station concluded from this nonscientific survey that the vast majority were in favor of it. The funny part is that the radio station never asked a question. It was an illustration of the bandwagon effect. If you get enough people walking down South Trenton Street in the same direction at nearly the same time, a parade is likely to break out.

I could go on one of my rants about people not thinking critically about political, educational, existential, or spiritual matters — but I won’t. I will say this: you need to read more than just the headlines on the website. You need to read the article. And you need to read more than one verse of the Bible if you want the whole picture. We often form opinions based on emotion rather than actually thinking something through. (I know — shocking.)

I talk about this because when people find out I’m a minister, they usually ask a question that goes something like this: “Do Methodists believe in drinking wine and playing cards at the dance held on Sunday afternoon at the movie theater?” This is not a serious question, but the ones people ask me are just as funny. When someone asks me about a specific “sin,” I usually ask them what they think. You might be surprised to know that people are looking for direction and validation in their lives. I’m amused that they mostly want to know if I’m AGAINST the same things they’re against. Often, in seeking direction and validation for our spiritual position, we join a church where people “think like we do.”

Nonchurch folks define the congregation of Trinity Methodist in two ways: by who attends our church, and by what we are AGAINST. I have a list of jokes to prove my point, but space doesn’t allow me to share them. (You’re welcome.) In church life, the bandwagon is joined as much for what a church is against as for what the church believes. But do you really want anyone defining you by what you’re against?

Now here’s what I want you to hear — and I want you to hear it louder than any bandwagon rolling down the street. I am FOR YOU. I believe God loves you just the way you are — not the “improved,” “cleanedup,” “Sundaybest” version of you, but the real you, the one who sometimes burns the biscuits, loses their patience, and wonders if they’re getting any of this right. You don’t have to do one single thing to earn God’s love. Not one. I believe God wants the best for you — and your “best” doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. God loves you so much that He sent Jesus into the world to show us that love with skin on.

And if you’ve never heard anyone say this plainly, let me be the first: you matter, you are loved, and heaven is not rolling its eyes at you. God is not waiting for you to get your act together — God is already cheering for you, believing in you, and walking with you.

What do you believe?

After 22 years of shared finances, a new disagreement puts one couple at odds: should they help an adult son with car payments, or protect their retirement?

 See what Ida says 

Burger joints are as much a part of our American culture as the fish and chip shops are in England.  On April 25, 1960, Michael James “Jim” Delligatti opened a drive-in restaurant franchise in Uniontown, Pennsylvania.  Jim’s drive-in operated on a streamlined technique in which they could deliver a hamburger, French fires, and a milkshake in 50 seconds or less.  The menu consisted of just ten items: hamburgers, cheeseburgers, French fries, triple thick milkshakes, Coca Cola, root beer, Orangeade, milk, coffee, and hot chocolate.  By using their assembly line process, they could prepare 36 hamburgers in just 110 seconds.  Jim’s drive-in had the space to prepare 6,000 hamburgers a day.  At $.15 each, the profit margin per hamburger was small, but they made up for it in volume.  Customers flocked to Jim’s drive-in.  The food was inexpensive, quick, and tasted good.  A bright neon sign identified the drive-in.  The brightly lit food preparation area was enclosed by 900 square feet of quarter-inch plate glass so customers could see that their food was served quickly in spotless surroundings.  Business was so good that by 1971, Jim owned a dozen drive-in restaurant franchises in western Pennsylvania.  Jim eventually owned 48 restaurants in the drive-in restaurant chain.      

Jim always paid attention to what his customers wanted.  After hearing that they desired a bigger sandwich, Jim went to work.  After a short time—speed was of the utmost importance—Jim created a bigger sandwich by using items already on his menu and adding a unique sauce made from salted egg yolks, mustard, onion, garlic, and relish.  In March of 1967, Jim used his Uniontown drive-in to test out his new sandwich.  Demand exploded and Jim added his new creation to the menus of his other drive-ins.  The results were the same.  Jim’s larger sandwich was a hit, but the parent company did not want to alter their original menu.  Jim explained, “they figured, why go to something else if (the original menu) was working so well?”  Eventually, Jim’s creation was added to the national chain’s menus with resounding success.  Since 1968, the chain has sold billions of Jim’s larger sandwiches.  In 2006, the parent company estimated that they were selling 550 million of them each year at a rate of 17 each second.            

Jim did not become wealthy off of his creation that is now sold in over 100 countries.  Jim received no payment and no royalties for the creation, but that was okay with Jim.  After more than six and a half decades, Jim’s Drive-In is still open.  From the menu at the drive-in restaurant at 575 Morgantown Street in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, you can still order the sandwich Jim created there by combining two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions, on a sesame seed bun.  It is said to be the most popular sandwich on the planet.  Jim, the owner of a McDonald’s franchise, was the creator of the Big Mac.  …and it’s time for lunch.

Sources:

1.     The Evening Standard (Uniontown, Pennsylvania), April 12, 1960, p.7.

2.     The Evening Standard, March 2, 1971, p.69.

3.     Valley News (West Lebanon, New Hampshire), December 4, 2016, p.12.

4.     “Michael James Delligatti,” Devlin Funeral Home, accessed May 3, 2026, https://www.devlinfuneralhome.com/obituaries/michael-james-delligatti/.

5.     “Inventor of the Big Mac dies, aged 98,” BBC News, November 30, 2016, accessed May 3, 2026, https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-38162497.

For at least one day this week, aviator sunglasses become socially acceptable indoors, people suddenly feel the need for speed on their morning commute, and someone, somewhere, will absolutely attempt a volleyball reference they are too young to fully understand.

May 13 marks National Top Gun Day, an unofficial holiday celebrating the 1986 blockbuster film that turned fighter pilots into pop culture icons and permanently convinced generations of movie fans that motorcycles, leather jackets, and dramatic runway walks were essential personality traits.

The holiday arrives this year with even more momentum as both Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick are returning to theaters for a limited anniversary run beginning May 13 to celebrate the original movie’s 40th anniversary.

That means Americans this week may once again find themselves explaining to younger family members why everyone over age 35 instinctively says “Talk to me, Goose” during minor inconveniences.

The original Top Gun, released in 1986 and starring Tom Cruise as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, became one of the defining films of the 1980s. The movie reportedly boosted Navy recruitment, made aviator sunglasses wildly popular, and helped launch one of the most recognizable soundtracks in movie history.

Even people who have never seen the film somehow still understand the references. “Danger Zone” starts playing, and suddenly everyone feels qualified to land fighter jets.

The holiday itself has developed a surprisingly loyal online following over the years, with fans celebrating by rewatching the movies, quoting dialogue, and debating whether Top Gun: Maverick somehow managed to outperform the original nearly four decades later.

Social media users have already begun posting their plans for the annual celebration.

Azzie Lee Richardson – Mitchell
10/15/1948 – 05/07/2026
Services : Friday May 15, 2026 @ 1:00 p.m.

Ben Elam
05/03/1939 – 05/06/2026
Visitation : Friday May 15 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services : Saturday May 16 at 11:00 a.m. at Mary Evergreen B.C.

Purvis Fortson
03/04/1935 – 05/04/2026
Visitation : Friday May 15 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m Jenkins Funeral Home
Gravesite : Saturday May 16 at 11:00 a.m. at Bethlehem Cemetery

Billie Faye Demease
06/07/1955 – 05/03/2026
Visitation : Friday May 15 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services : Saturday May 16 at 11:00 a.m. at New Mt. Olive B.C. in Coushatta, La

Milton “Felix” Payne – Sr.
06/07/1954 – 05/01/2026
Visitation : Friday May 15 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services : Saturday May 16 at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Mansfield

Betty Jean Hall
August 18, 1950 — May 11, 2026
Graveside Services: Thursday, May 14 at 1:00 p.m. at Cool Springs 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

The Shreveport Police Department and DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office have unveiled a new law enforcement helicopter aimed at strengthening public safety efforts across the region.

Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith joined DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson on May 7 to introduce the aircraft, which will provide aerial support for both the City of Shreveport and DeSoto Parish.

According to officials, the helicopter is equipped with advanced technology designed to assist with crime prevention efforts, support officers on the ground, aid in search operations, and provide assistance during major incidents.

Law enforcement leaders said the aircraft will help with suspect tracking, locating missing persons, and improving officer safety while enhancing coordination between agencies.

Officials described the partnership as an example of regional cooperation focused on improving community safety and expanding law enforcement capabilities.

Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a single-vehicle crash on May 10 around 6 am on Louisiana Highway 175 near Louisiana Highway 5. The crash claimed the life of 35-year-old Delon Perkins of Tyler, TX. 

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2020 Kenworth tractor-trailer, driven by Perkins, was traveling south on Louisiana Highway 175. For reasons still under investigation, Perkins’ vehicle exited the roadway and overturned.

Perkins, who was properly restrained at the time of the crash, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Impairment is not suspected; however, standard toxicology samples were taken and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, Louisiana State Police urges drivers to obey all traffic laws and remain alert while driving. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can mean the difference between life and death.

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

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office has released its monthly narcotics roundup, highlighting multiple arrests made throughout April as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal drug activity across the parish.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies assigned to the Street Level Interdiction Unit (S.L.I.U.) remain focused on identifying and disrupting the possession and distribution of controlled substances, including methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and other illegal narcotics.

Law enforcement officials say these targeted enforcement efforts are designed to address drug-related crimes that impact local communities, particularly cases involving repeat offenders and situations where minors may be exposed to illegal substances.

During the month of April, seven individuals were arrested and booked into the DeSoto Detention Center on various narcotics-related and other charges:

Eddie M. Colbert, 47, of Mansfield was arrested on April 1 and charged with Possession of Schedule II (Powder Cocaine), Illegal Use of CDS in the Presence of a Minor, and a DeSoto Parish warrant.

Danny L. Jackson, 48, of Mansfield was arrested on April 1 and charged with Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine), Possession of Marijuana, and Improper Lane Usage.

Michele L. Wilson, 41, of Mansfield was arrested on April 7 and charged with Resisting an Officer, Proper Equipment Required for Vehicles, and Vehicle Required Headlamps.

Catelin E. Buell, 37, of Haughton was arrested on April 15 and charged with Possession of Schedule III (Suboxone), Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Improper Display of License Plate.

Keenan Jones, 28, of Mansfield was arrested on April 17 on a DPSO Narcotics Warrant for Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule I (Synthetic Marijuana), along with a Speeding charge.

Stan E. Jones, 40, of Mansfield was arrested on April 22 and charged with Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Modified Exhaust System violations.

Marilyn Miller, 72, of Carthage, Texas was arrested on April 23 and charged with Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine), Possession of Schedule II (Cocaine), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Sheriff Jayson Richardson commended the work of the Street Level Interdiction Unit and Narcotics Division, emphasizing the importance of proactive enforcement in maintaining public safety throughout DeSoto Parish.

“The consistent efforts of these deputies—often conducted during long hours and under challenging conditions—play a critical role in reducing the distribution of dangerous and illegal narcotics in our communities,” the Sheriff’s Office stated.

Officials say narcotics enforcement remains a top priority as deputies continue working to reduce drug-related crime and preserve quality of life for DeSoto Parish residents.

All individuals listed are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. An arrest indicates that probable cause existed at the time of the alleged offense.

See DeSoto Parish on page 8.

Leadership within the DeSoto Parish Sheriff 911 Communications District is being recognized at the state level following a major honor awarded during a statewide public safety communications conference in Bossier City.

Deputy Chief Phillip Daniels recently attended the week-long 2026 APCO/NENA Symposium held at LIVE! Casino in Bossier City, where more than 400 public safety professionals from across Louisiana gathered for training, collaboration, and professional networking focused on emergency communications and 9-1-1 services.

On April 27, Deputy Chief Daniels was presented with the President’s Award, an honor selected and awarded by Louisiana APCO Chapter President LaQuita Collins. The award recognizes his continued dedication to advancing public safety communications and his commitment to strengthening the 9-1-1 system across the region.

Officials noted that the recognition highlights Daniels’ leadership role in improving emergency response communications and supporting the broader 9-1-1 professional community.

In addition to receiving the award, Deputy Chief Daniels also participated in the symposium by presenting Certificates of Appreciation to various public safety leaders. Those individuals were recognized for their contributions to national advocacy efforts supporting emergency communications improvements.

The symposium, hosted by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) and the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), serves as a key annual event for professionals in the field. Both organizations play a central role in providing training, leadership development, and advancing 9-1-1 services nationwide.

Sheriff Jayson Richardson praised Daniels’ achievement, emphasizing the broader impact of his work:
“Phillip’s leadership and commitment to public safety communications continue to make a positive impact not only here in DeSoto Parish, but across our state. We are proud to see his work recognized at this level and appreciate the important role APCO and NENA play in strengthening emergency services statewide.”

Officials with the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office highlighted the importance of events like the APCO/NENA Symposium, noting that they provide essential opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continued improvement of emergency response systems that serve communities throughout Louisiana.

Deputy Chief Daniels’ recognition underscores ongoing efforts within DeSoto Parish to support innovation and excellence in public safety communications.

DESOTO PARISH, La. — Residents across DeSoto Parish should prepare for an unsettled weather pattern through the middle of the week, with multiple chances for showers and thunderstorms before conditions gradually improve heading into the weekend.

Forecasts show Wednesday bringing the highest likelihood for widespread rainfall, with showers and thunderstorms expected to develop mainly after 1 p.m. Skies will remain cloudy throughout the day, with temperatures climbing to a high near 83 degrees. South winds are expected between 10 and 15 mph, with rain chances at 70%.

Storm activity is expected to continue into Wednesday night, with showers and possible thunderstorms likely before 1 a.m., followed by a lingering chance of rain overnight. Cloudy conditions will persist, with temperatures dropping to around 59 degrees. Rain chances remain at 70%.

On Thursday, another round of unsettled weather is possible as showers and thunderstorms could redevelop, especially after 1 p.m. Skies will stay mostly cloudy with cooler daytime temperatures, reaching a high near 71 degrees. Rain chances decrease slightly to 50%.

Conditions begin to improve Thursday night, though a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms remains. Overnight lows are expected near 55 degrees with mostly cloudy skies and only a 20% chance of precipitation.

By Friday, DeSoto Parish will see a gradual return to drier conditions. Only a 20% chance of isolated showers is forecast, with partly sunny skies and a high near 75 degrees.

Friday night carries a slight chance of late showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m., with partly cloudy skies and lows around 59 degrees.

The weekend forecast looks more favorable for outdoor plans. Saturday brings mostly sunny skies with only a 20% chance of isolated showers or thunderstorms and a daytime high near 79 degrees. Saturday night is expected to remain partly cloudy with overnight temperatures around 62 degrees.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts throughout the week, especially during periods of possible thunderstorms and changing conditions.

Overall, DeSoto Parish can expect a wet and stormy midweek pattern followed by warmer, calmer weather heading into the weekend.

Students from Mansfield High School are being recognized for outstanding achievement following strong performances by the school’s JAG Career Association at recent state-level competitions.

School officials congratulated members of the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) Career Association for earning multiple honors across leadership, career readiness, business development, and civic engagement categories.

First Place in Employability Skills

Student Damontris Ford captured 1st Place in Employability Skills, a competition that required participants to submit a professional resume and cover letter tailored to a job they currently qualify for, followed by participation in a mock job interview.

School leaders praised Ford’s accomplishment as a reflection of strong career preparation and interview readiness.

Outstanding Chapter Recognition

Students Margarete Wilson, Janiyah Livingston, and Jayla McKinney were recognized for creating a digital book highlighting the Career Association’s work in leadership development, career preparation, civic awareness, and service learning.

Their project contributed to Mansfield High School being recognized as an Outstanding Chapter, an honor reflecting the chapter’s success in student leadership and program development.

Additional State Placements and Competition Participation

In the Business Plan Development and Presentation category, students Kamille Bumcon, Tarzan White, and Stanley Zheng earned 7th Place for their work presenting business concepts and development strategies.

Student N’Yriah Hensley also represented Mansfield High School in Financial Budget Development, demonstrating competitive skills in financial planning and budgeting.

Project-Based Learning Showcase

Students Dejhane Davis, Zakharia Hill, and Lindsey Peoples competed in Project Based Learning, presenting their Build-a-Gift Challenge project. Their initiative highlighted the impact made on the Career

Association through the development and delivery of affirmation jars for Mansfield High School faculty and staff.

Student Leadership at the State Level

Students Jacques Burton and Yuxi Zheng served as state officers and Voting Delegates for the JAG-LA Career Association. In this leadership role, they participated in selecting new national JAG Career

Association officers, contributing student voice and leadership at the organizational level.

Preparing Future Leaders

School officials noted that the success of the Mansfield High School JAG program reflects the institution’s commitment to workforce readiness, leadership development, and preparing students for future academic and career success.

The program’s achievements reinforce JAG’s mission of building leaders, strengthening employability skills, and creating opportunities for student growth through hands-on learning and leadership experiences.

Is there a phrase more terrifying to the modern grocery shopper than “UNEXPECTED ITEM IN BAGGING AREA”? (Except, perhaps, “ITEM REMOVED FROM BAGGING AREA.”) 

We’ve all been there: The panicked fumble, the furious (yet ultimately futile) pressing of the “clear error” button, the desperate eye-contact with the one store employee who is now also side-eyeing your entire existence. The worst part? The machine never understands your motivation. It doesn’t know about the snack craving, the mid-afternoon energy slump, or the urgent need for specifically this kind of chip. It only knows that something isn’t “registered” and now you’re the unexpected item.

Just… just give me the snacks, you heartless electronic demon.

Proposal sparks discussion on experience, longevity, and the future of Louisiana’s courts

By Journal Staff

Voters across Louisiana will consider Amendment 5 on the May 16, 2026 ballot, a proposal that would increase the mandatory retirement age for judges from 70 to 75.

If approved, the change would allow judges to complete full terms—some as long as 10 years depending on the court—provided they have not reached their 75th birthday at the time of service.

A Shift Reflecting Longer Lifespans

Supporters of the amendment point to a broader societal trend: Americans are living longer and remaining professionally active later in life than when the current retirement limit was established decades ago.

Under the existing system, judges who reach age 70 are required to step down, regardless of their health, performance, or desire to continue serving. Proponents argue that this can lead to the loss of experienced jurists at a time when institutional knowledge and continuity are valuable to the court system.

Continued Service Beyond the Bench

Even under current law, many retired judges remain involved in the legal system, often serving in temporary or ad hoc capacities to assist with caseloads. Backers of Amendment 5 say the proposal would formalize and extend that opportunity, allowing qualified judges to remain in full-time roles longer rather than transitioning to limited assignments.

Broad Support Across Legal Circles

The amendment has drawn backing from various members of Louisiana’s legal community, including attorneys, judicial organizations, and others who cite the benefits of experience and stability on the bench.

Advocates emphasize that the proposal does not eliminate voter oversight. Judges would still be required to stand for election, meaning the public retains the ability to decide whether a candidate—regardless of age—should continue serving.

Considerations for Voters

As with any constitutional amendment, the decision ultimately rests with voters. Amendment 5 raises broader questions about balancing experience with generational turnover, as well as how best to structure long-term service in the judiciary.

Voters will have the opportunity to weigh those factors when they head to the polls on May 16.

Two DeSoto Parish teaching residents were recently recognized for completing an important milestone in their journey toward becoming professional educators.

Ms. Thomas and Ms. Henderson received their Golden Apple during NSU’s Apple Pinning Ceremony, marking the successful completion of their teaching residency program.

The ceremony honors education candidates who have fulfilled residency requirements and are preparing to officially enter the teaching profession. Both honorees completed their residency placements in DeSoto Parish during the 2025-2026 school year.

DeSoto Parish Schools celebrated the accomplishment, recognizing the dedication and commitment both future educators demonstrated throughout their residency experience.

The Golden Apple pinning symbolizes readiness to transition from student-teacher roles into full-time careers in education, following months of classroom training, mentorship, and hands-on instructional experience.

School officials expressed excitement about welcoming new educators into the profession and acknowledged the impact new teachers can have on students and school communities.

“Good luck ladies, we are excited to have you in the education profession,” DeSoto Parish Schools shared in congratulating the pair.

The recognition highlights DeSoto Parish’s continued investment in developing future educators and supporting teaching residency opportunities that help prepare candidates for success in Louisiana classrooms.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) reminds the public that increased water temperatures, storms, and extended cloudy weather can lead to fish kills in inland and nearshore waters across the state. These events are typically caused by low dissolved oxygen (hypoxia), which often occurs in warm water, since it has a lower carrying capacity for oxygen than cooler water.  Conditions such as stagnant water, heavy rainfall, decaying vegetation, or increased nutrient runoff contribute to hypoxic conditions—especially in shallow bayous, marshes, and ponds.

Fish kills may affect certain species or sizes more than others. For example, shad are sensitive to hypoxia, and are often the first or only fish that experience a fish kill, while some species, like gar, can breathe air and are resistant to hypoxic conditions. Other species have varying levels of tolerance to hypoxic conditions. 

While fish kills can temporarily impact recreational and commercial fishing, aquatic ecosystems in Louisiana are resilient and typically recover naturally. Even in large fish kills, some fish will find refuge from hypoxic conditions in the affected waterbody or connected waterbodies and survive. Scavengers and decomposers help break down fish remains, and most systems recover over time. If conditions remain favorable, fish populations often rebound after major kills within one to two years without the need for stocking, and young fish benefit from reduced competition and increased resources. However, fish kills caused by pollution or chemical spills can occur at any time and may require additional response.

Documenting fish kills in Louisiana, whether caused by natural or human-caused events, is important to responsibly manage fisheries resources. Please report any observed fish kill to LDWF so biologists can investigate and document the kill as soon as possible. For information on how to report a fish kill or more information about the causes of fish kills, go online to wlf.louisiana.gov/page/fish-kills.

Members of the North DeSoto High School FFA recently celebrated a successful year of achievement and leadership, highlighted by an end-of-year awards banquet and participation in statewide civic engagement at the Louisiana State Capitol.

On Friday, April 24, North DeSoto FFA members gathered with family, faculty, and supporters for the organization’s annual end-of-year awards banquet. The event recognized student accomplishments throughout the academic year, celebrating growth in leadership, agricultural education, and chapter involvement.

FFA advisors and school staff were also acknowledged for their continued guidance and support, including Mr. Dees, Mr. Emerson, Mrs. Emerson, and Mr. Chandler, whose dedication helped students succeed in both classroom and hands-on agricultural experiences.

Following the banquet, several North DeSoto FFA members traveled to Baton Rouge to participate in FFA Day at the Capitol, where they represented NDHS at the Louisiana State Capitol.

Students had the opportunity to tour the Capitol building, observe the legislative process, and engage directly with state leaders while learning more about government operations and public service.

During the visit, students were welcomed by several public officials who took time from their legislative duties to meet with FFA members, including:

Rep. Larry Bagley

Rep. Jack McFarland

Sen. Thomas Pressly

Assistant State Superintendent of Early Childhood Education Barry Carter

Officials provided tours, shared insight into state government operations, and discussed the importance of agricultural education and student leadership development.

North DeSoto FFA extended appreciation to parents, faculty, and community partners for their ongoing support throughout the year. Advisors emphasized that student success is built through strong collaboration between families, schools, and local leaders.

As the school year concludes, North DeSoto FFA reflects on a year marked by achievement, leadership growth, and civic engagement. The organization continues to encourage students to develop skills in agriculture, leadership, and public service as they prepare for future opportunities.

North DeSoto FFA’s participation in both local recognition events and statewide experiences underscores the program’s commitment to preparing students for leadership roles in agriculture and beyond, while strengthening ties between education and public service across Louisiana.