James Ray Adams
June 10, 1954 — July 7, 2025
No Service Information Listed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is currently updating the Statewide Transportation Plan and is inviting residents, commuters, and business owners to provide input through an online survey available until June 30.

The plan, last updated in 2015, will serve as a blueprint for shaping the future of Louisiana’s transportation system. The updated plan is expected to be finalized in 2025 and is designed to address the evolving needs of a modern transportation network—balancing safety, infrastructure longevity, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.

DOTD’s effort is guided by the theme “Shaping Louisiana’s Future: Your Journey, Our Priority,” emphasizing the importance of aligning transportation planning with the needs of the public. Transportation in Louisiana encompasses more than just roads—it’s about efficiently and safely moving people and goods across the state and the country.

To ensure the plan reflects the priorities of Louisianans, DOTD has identified six overarching goals:

Safety – Provide safe and secure travel across all modes of transportation.

Preservation – Maintain the state’s multimodal infrastructure in a state of good repair.

Resilience – Strengthen the system’s ability to withstand and recover from extreme weather and other disruptions.

Community Development and Enhancement – Ensure the transportation network serves all citizens and supports broader community goals.

Economic Competitiveness – Foster a transportation system that drives employment, commerce, and tourism.

Environmental Sustainability – Make transportation decisions that are respectful of Louisiana’s environment, culture, and history.

Public input will play a critical role in refining these goals and guiding investment decisions over the coming years. Whether priorities lie in road improvements, bridge repairs, public transit, or freight logistics, community feedback will help shape the vision for how Louisiana moves forward.

The public is encouraged to complete the brief survey by visiting https://latransportationplan.la.gov/survey/.

With growing demand, technological advancement, and shifting infrastructure needs, DOTD is committed to planning for a transportation system that supports safety, sustainability, and long-term growth. Public participation is essential to creating a plan that reflects the values and vision of all Louisianans.

Doug McGuire was the Senior Minister of Trinity Methodist Church through the 1960’s. He was a great guy. In his retirement he acquired his private pilot’s license. Years ago, I was known to spend hours in the air with Doug. Doug has gone on to his reward. He was filled with preacher aphorisms. His advice was wise. He encouraged, “Always enter the pulpit with a full heart and an empty bladder. And don’t get them reversed!” He also said, “If a sermon is worth preaching once it is worth preaching again.” I wonder if that holds true for these articles.

To wit.

A dog was on a safari with this master, but he got lost chasing butterflies. He then noticed out of his peripheral vision that a lion was slowly sneaking up to attack him. He saw a pile of bones nearby. Pretending not to see the lion, the dog started chomping on a bone. He hollered, “Boy, the lion sure tasted good!” The lion decided that this must be a very ferocious dog, so he left.

But a monkey watched all of this. He chased down the lion and told him the truth. Furious, the lion turned around to go eat the dog. The monkey jumped on the lion’s back intending to watch the whole thing unfold before him. Realizing what had happened, the quick-thinking dog grabbed another bone and hollered, “Where is that stupid monkey? He should have brought me another lion by now!”

It is a great story. Don’t you wish you could be like that dog and be that quick witted? Sure you do! When someone zings you at work, you stew about it all that night and you finally figure out what you could have said to that person. Or after an argument you stew until you finally think of what you should have said.

In my line of work, I want to be comforting and Godly when someone seeks my wisdom or advice. Often, I am neither and I toss and turn until I come up with a better answer to a person’s question or concern.

Most of us wish we could think faster and say the right word at the right time.

I wonder how many of us read this story and thought, “maybe it is best not to get lost in the first place.” I think that was the ultimate point.

Three fun-filled days and nights make Natchitoches the festive focal point in our state Thursday evening, Friday and Saturday with the 2025 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration and you and yours are invited.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2025 will be enshrined Saturday night at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 66th Induction Celebration. A seating reconfiguration last week created additional seating up to 900 and a few dozen tickets remain available at LaSportsHall.com.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday with the free admission Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m. at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street.

The Friday schedule begins with the Mardi Gras Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. There’s still room for individual and team entries with participants enjoying lunch catered by Walk-On’s while warm up for the competition takes place at the 40-alley facility.

Two of south Louisiana’s hottest musical acts from the Baton Rouge area will take the stage for the coolest concert for miles around, the absolutely free Rockin’ River Fest party Friday evening.

The Lauren Lee Band will get the party started and The Chase Tyler Band is the featured act on the Rue Beauport stage bordering Cane River Lake smack dab in the middle of the City of Lights’ historic and beautiful downtown district.

In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event that is approaching capacity on the Front Street bricks and inside Mama’s Oyster House, Papa’s and the Blues Room.

The slate on Saturday kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at LaSportsHall.com.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

Louisiana Public Broadcasting will televise the ceremony live from 7-9:30.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of 2025 is headlined by two men pivotal in LSU’s 2003 football national championship – coach Nick Saban and Andrew Whitworth, a champion at West Monroe High School, LSU and in the NFL during a 16-year pro career. More sparkle is provided by pro basketball All-Stars Vickie Johnson and Danny Granger, the state’s winningest all-time college baseball coach Joe Scheuermann and Danny Broussard, one of the nation’s most successful high school basketball coaches, in this year’s induction class.

It also includes LSU gymnastics great and NCAA individual champion April Burkholder, transformational Catholic-Baton Rouge high school football coach Dale Weiner and George “Bobby” Soileau, a four-time high school and 1956 NCAA boxing champion at LSU who also won a state crown as a football coach at his alma mater, Sacred Heart High School in Ville Platte.

LSU graduate Herb Vincent, now a longstanding associate commissioner of the Southeastern Conference, is receiving the Hall’s Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award with his enshrinement.

Also being honored: Ed Daniels, a generational television sports broadcaster in New Orleans, and Glenn Guilbeau, one of the nation’s more decorated sportswriters in a career that has seen him cover LSU, state college, high school and pro sports along with stories across the South and around the SEC. They are being inducted as recipients of the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism.

By Steve Graf    

During the span of a lifetime, we are met with this question. For example, when is it time to change jobs, get married, have kids, or retire? Everyone has a different timeline for each of these questions. But the one thing we ALL want is the ability to make these decisions when we are ready and on our own terms. 
 
Everyone that has played a particular sport, especially at a high level, wants to walk away when they are ready, not when someone tells them they are no longer good enough. 
 
I’ve always wanted to be in control no matter what, and the one thing I’ve always told myself was, “When it’s no longer fun or I’m no longer competitive, it’s time to walk away.” I have applied this rule of thumb throughout my athletic career and will do so with regards to my fishing career. 
 
I’ve been fishing tournaments since the early 1990’s and have enjoyed almost every minute of it! Sure, there’ve been some ups and downs just like any other sport, but the friends I have made and the good times I’ve shared with so many can never be taken away. 
 
Another aspect I still enjoy today is trying to figure out how to catch bass. This never gets old for me. And the feeling I get when it all comes together for a tournament, well there’s just no better feeling in the world! It’s what motivates me and drives my competitive fire!
 
Over the years, people who don’t know or understand the sport of bass fishing think it is all luck. Nothing could be further from the truth because if that was the case, why are the same anglers always near the top of the standings?
 
They say luck is where preparation meets opportunity. I’m a firm believer in that saying because if you want to compete with the best anglers on any circuit, you have to do your homework and spend lots of time on the water. In bass fishing, “time on the water” is essential to being successful.
 
So, to answer the question of, “How do we know when it’s time?” – for me, it will be when I can no longer compete with the young guns of the tournament bass fishing world or when it’s no longer fun. 
 
But if all my fishing buddies continue to fish, I’ll still hang around. This has become the main reason I’m still competing today. I’ve been blessed with some of the best dudes an angler could ask for when it comes to travel partners. 
 
We’ve shared in some awesome times, ate some great meals and told a lot of fish stories, some true and some just pure lies! These same stories have been repeated time and time again and are told as if it was the first time we have ever heard them. But that’s ok, it’s all a part of the memories being made that make every trip special. 
 
One thing about tournament anglers, they are unique in many ways and are a little stingy when it comes to fishing information. We’ll try and help each other a little, but may not always reveal every detail on how we are catching fish. 
 
There’s also a great bond with all anglers that travel and stay together on the road. Each is always willing to help the other in their time of need, whether it’s a boat breakdown on the water or a blown trailer tire on the road. They are like the Marines; no man will be left behind!
 
This is why I’m still doing it at the age of 64 and will continue as long as my health is good, I can still get bites, and hopefully cash a check once in a while.

‘Til next time, here’s to wishing all anglers tight lines and good times fishing! 

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

On a relaxing Sunday afternoon on June 28, 1931, Betty Robinson and her cousin Wilson Palmer, a novice pilot, decided to take a flight in what one newspaper described as “an ancient plane of small design.”

Betty was an Olympian. In 1928, she won the first Olympic championship in the 100 meters for women’s track. Betty had made a few attempts to pilot a plane herself and took frequent flights with her cousin.

Betty’s and Wilson’s parents and friends chatted warmly at the airfield as their flight began. It was a scene they were familiar with until the airplane reached an altitude of about 400 feet. They noticed something was wrong. The airplane was struggling to gain altitude and the engine stalled. Wilson fought at the controls until the plane “slipped into a nosedive and plunged almost straight down.” At that crucial moment, Wilson instinctively cut off the plane’s ignition switch. There was nothing anyone could do.

Wilson fought with the controls until the end. Family and friends watched helplessly for those few seconds as the plane silently plummeted straight down to the ground right in front of them. Because Wilson had turned off the ignition switch, there was no fire. The crowd rushed to what remained of the airplane and dragged Betty’s and Wilson’s unconscious bodies from the wreckage. Motorists who had witnessed the crash stopped to help and transported Betty and Wilson to two different hospitals in Chicago; Betty was taken to Oak Forest Infirmary and Wilson to Ingalls Memorial Hospital. Doctors at both hospitals told their families that it was unlikely that either would survive. All they could do was hope and pray.
After reviewing her x-rays, Dr. Jacob Minke explained Betty’s injuries: “The thigh bone is fractured in several places between the knee and the hip and when it heals it will probably be a little shorter than the other leg. It will be months before she is able to walk again. She has a fractured left arm and internal injuries which may be more serious than is yet apparent.” Headlines read, “Crash Will End Athletics for Betty Robinson.”

On September 5, 1931, Betty was able to leave the hospital but remained in a wheelchair. She slowly began regaining her strength and her ability to walk. “Not being able to race is terrible to contemplate,” Betty said after leaving the hospital, “but I have determined not to let this accident ruin my life.” She hoped to become a coach at the 1936 Olympics. Despite her countless hours of physical therapy and training, Betty was never able to get back into the crouching position runners take before a race. Betty was at the 1936 Olympics, but not as a coach. Five years after the airplane crash that left her body broken and battered, Betty was part of the U.S. 4 x 100 meter relay team. During the race, Betty took the lead from her German counterpart and led her team to victory. Even with a stiff left arm and permanent damage to her left leg, Betty Robinson won her second Olympic Gold Medal.

Sources:

1. The Minneapolis Tribune, June 29, 1931, p.1.

2. Chicago Tribune, June 30, 1931, p. 13.

3. Chicago Tribune, September 6, 1931, p.17.

4. Chicago Tribune, September 29, 1931, p.4.

5. Chicago Tribune, December 22, 1931, p.21.

6. Chicago Tribune, August 10, 1936, p.20.

On June 25, 1981, Microsoft took a major step toward transforming the personal computer industry with the introduction of MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System). Though the software would not become widely used until later that year, this date marks the official beginning of a platform that would come to dominate personal computing for more than a decade—and propel Microsoft from a modest software startup into one of the world’s most influential tech giants.

The story of MS-DOS is one of timing, opportunity, and rapid innovation. In 1980, IBM was developing its first personal computer—the IBM PC—and needed an operating system to run it. Microsoft, founded just five years earlier by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, had never developed an OS before. But when IBM came calling, Microsoft made a bold move: it agreed to provide the software and then quietly acquired an existing OS called 86-DOS from a small Seattle company, Seattle Computer Products.

Microsoft adapted 86-DOS for IBM’s hardware, rebranded it as MS-DOS, and delivered it to IBM in time for the launch of the IBM PC in August 1981. The agreement allowed IBM to use the system under the name PC-DOS, while Microsoft retained the rights to license it to other manufacturers. This seemingly small decision would prove to be one of the most consequential in tech history.

Over the next several years, MS-DOS became the backbone of countless IBM-compatible personal computers, also known as “clones,” which flooded the market. As hardware became more affordable and accessible, Microsoft’s operating system powered millions of machines in homes, schools, and businesses worldwide.

MS-DOS was a command-line operating system, meaning users had to type specific text commands to launch programs or access files—an experience that could be intimidating for newcomers. But at the time, it was a revolutionary step forward, offering a standard platform for developers and helping to fuel the rapid growth of the software industry.

Though rudimentary by today’s standards, MS-DOS laid the groundwork for future advancements in personal computing. It supported early versions of now-legendary programs like WordPerfect, Lotus 1-2-3, and eventually, Microsoft Word and Excel. It also paved the way for the development of Windows, Microsoft’s graphical user interface that would eventually replace MS-DOS as the dominant operating system.

By the mid-1990s, MS-DOS had been largely phased out as users transitioned to more user-friendly systems like Windows 95 and Windows 98. Still, echoes of MS-DOS remain in modern Windows environments, where the “Command Prompt” is a direct descendant of its early interface.

Beyond the technology itself, the launch of MS-DOS on June 25, 1981, marked a defining moment in Microsoft’s history. It positioned the company as a central player in the emerging PC industry and set the stage for its meteoric rise. By retaining the rights to MS-DOS, Microsoft was able to license the software to dozens of manufacturers, securing a steady stream of revenue and building a near-monopoly on personal computer operating systems for years to come.

Today, MS-DOS is a footnote in the story of modern computing, but its impact remains undeniable. It empowered a generation of computer users, shaped the trajectory of the digital age, and demonstrated how a few lines of code—backed by strategic thinking—can change the world.

As we look back on June 25, 1981, it serves as a reminder of how quickly technology evolves, and how the smallest decisions can have the biggest consequences.

Lois Elaine Murphy Posey Scruggs
Service: Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at 11 am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, located at 943 Polk Street in Mansfield

Doris “Nana” Byrd Bynog
Services held on June 23

Kenneth Ray Sudds
01/27/1963 – 06/07/2025
Visitation: Friday June 27 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel
Services: Saturday June 28 at 10:00 a.m. at Keatchie C.O.G.I.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 28th annual Natchitoches Jazz R&B Festival is this weekend and the organizers are calling it the biggest and best ever.

“We’ve already sold more advance tickets than we’ve ever sold at this point”, said festival Chairman Rodney Harrington, “many purchasers are from hundreds of miles away!”

According to Harrington, the excitement stems from the fact that country music superstar Gretchen Wilson is headlining and going to be appearing Saturday night, but also there’s lots of interest in the legendary funk-R&B pioneers Bar-Kays out of Memphis, TN and many of the other acts that are going to be appearing.

“People love the diverse and eclectic variety of the music we present”, said entertainment committee member Greg Burke, “from Bluegrass to gospel, country, to rock & roll, soul, blues, and of course jazz and R&B, we have it all!”

The town is also abuzz about Friday night’s “Tribute to Legends” lineup. Which includes the iconic Bon Jovi tribute band, Bad Medicine out of Atlanta, Georgia, followed by the Amazing Taylor Swift tribute out of Dallas, TX, “Lovers: An Eras Tour Experience”.

In fact, there is going to be a Taylor Swift “Taygate” at Flying Heart Brewery Thursday evening beginning at 6:00 where participants will be able to play Swift related games, sing songs, and participate in other Swifty activities, costumes are encouraged and there will be a costume contest with prizes awarded.

Advanced ticket purchasers to this weekend’s festival will be included in a Steel Magnolias Getaway Giveaway drawing, the winner of which drawing will receive 2 nights at the Steel Magnolia House, along with meals, a Riverboat ride, gift certificates and much more, a value of over $1,000!

All advanced ticket purchasers will be included in the drawing. For a full lineup and ticket information go to http://www.natchjazzfest.com

Northwestern State University’s School of Education signed two agreements April 8 that will facilitate credit articulation for teachers seeking master’s degrees.

One agreement signed between NSU and the Associated Professional Educators of Louisiana (A+PEL) addresses the articulation of the Ready to Teach Louisiana (RTL) curriculum developed by A+PEL that leads to alternative teacher certification and Louisiana Level 1 teacher licensure. Per the partnership with NSU, students who complete the Ready to Teach curriculum and earn a Louisiana Level 1 teacher certificate can receive 15 hours of credit from NSU towards a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a Transition to Teaching concentration.

Another agreement between NSU and the DeSoto Parish School Board creates a path of credit flow for teachers who complete Mentor Teacher Training, Master Teacher Training and/or Operation LEAD Training. With those completions and a bachelor’s degree, DeSoto Parish educators can receive up to 12 hours of credit towards a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at NSU.

“This is what makes teachers stronger, districts stronger and students succeed,” said Dr. April Giddens, interim director of NSU’s School of Education.

Dr. Dylan Solice, coordinator of NSU’s Educational Leadership program, was instrumental in developing the partnerships, which will help meet the need for high quality educators. He credited administration — Giddens, Dr. Katrina Jordan, immediate past director of the School of Education; Dr. Neeru Deep, dean of the College of Education and Human Development; NSU Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Greg Handel; NSU President James Genovese and colleagues with A+PEL and DeSoto Parish Schools — for supporting the initiative.

“RTL is an alternative certification program approved by BESE [Louisiana’s Board of Elementary and Secondary Education],” Solice said. “Northwestern State has its own alternative certification program, and we already articulate credit for NSU’s program to a concentration in our master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. We are now partnering with A+PEL to articulate credit from their alternative certification program to our master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction.”

“DeSoto has a wonderful multilayered leadership pipeline from where they develop mentor teachers, master teachers and educational leaders,” Solice continued. “We are working with their program to articulate different levels of credit towards our M.Ed. in educational leadership.”

“Northwestern has truly been at the forefront of educating the masses for such a long time, especially in the field of education, so this is a tremendous opportunity for us,” said Dr. Torrence Williams, RTL executive director, South Louisiana. “We’re looking forward to putting out folks who are both qualified and certified in the field.”

Clay Corley, DeSoto Parish Superintendent of Schools, said partnerships are the result of professional relationships and working together.

“This opens a lot of doors for our Mentor Teachers, our Master Teachers and our Operational LEAD participants to gain college credit. It’s a very rigorous process,” Corley said. “We are excited about bringing more of our leaders through this institution.”

Information on NSU’s School of Education, degree programs and steps to alternate certification is available at nsula.edu/education/.

A+PEL Signing: Northwestern State University’s School of Education and the Associated Professional Educators of Louisiana formalized an agreement in which Ready to Teach Louisiana completers can apply credits towards a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction at NSU. Seated from left are NSU Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Greg Handel; NSU President James Genovese, Dr. Torrence Williams, Ready to Teach Louisiana executive director for south Louisiana; Emily Ogden, Ready to Teach executive director for North Louisiana, and Dr. Keith Courville, A+PEL executive director. On the back row are Dr. Neeru Deep, dean of the Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development; Dr. April Giddens, interim director of the School of Education, and Dr. Dylan Solice, coordinator of NSU’s Educational Leadership program.

DeSoto Signing: Northwestern State University’s School of Education and DeSoto Parish Schools partnered in an articulation that will allow DeSoto Parish Mentor Teachers, Master Teachers and/or Operation LEADs to apply credits towards a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at NSU. Seated from left are Tamela Phillips, DeSoto supervisor of Human Resources; DeSoto Superintendent Clay Corley, NSU President James Genovese and NSU Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Greg Handel. On the back row are Brandon Burbank, DeSoto director of Administration; Lainee Cosby, DeSoto executive Master Teacher; Bridget Flanders, DeSoto director of Student Learning; Dr. April Giddens, interim director of NSU’s School of Education; Dr. Neeru Deep, dean of NSU’s Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development, and D. Dylan Solice, coordinator of NSU’s Educational Leadership program.

State Fire Marshal (SFM) deputies arrested a stonewall man for attempting to defraud the insurance company by intentionally setting fire to his pickup truck.

Thomas Tyler (44) of 704 Lessie Drive, Stonewall, admitted to SFM deputies that he set his 2024 Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck on fire with the intention of collecting insurance money. Deputies booked Tyler into the DeSoto Parish Detention Center Monday on a charge of Arson with Intent to Defraud.

On January 11, 2025, the DeSoto Parish Fire District #8 responded at 4:06 a.m. to a truck fire on the Interstate 49 southbound Mansfield exit. When they arrived, they found the truck fully engulf in flames. SFM deputies also responded and questioned Tyler. At the time, he claimed he tossed a cigarette out the window, and it ignited a gas can in the bed of the truck.

During the investigation, Tyler recanted his original story and confessed to the crime.

Anyone with information regarding any suspected arson case is asked to submit tips through our Arson Hotline at 1-844-954-1221 or online at lasfm.org. All tips can be submitted anonymously.

Gov. Jeff Landry visited Northwestern State University on Feb. 25 to meet with community officials, legislators and leaders in business, industry, education and economic development to address the pending closure of the International Paper mill in Campti and its projected negative impact for Natchitoches Parish. 

“There is no one who understands the economic impact of the loss of these jobs more than me,” Landry said, referencing the closure of multiple Fruit of the Loom facilities in south Louisiana in the 1990s and early 2000s. “It’s not only the jobs that are leaving the Campti facility, but the downstream effect of what it does to the small businesses that are attached. While I don’t have all the answers today, I can tell you that we will continue to work towards building economic opportunities throughout central and north Louisiana.”

“I think that the greatest opportunity that we have for economic development is actually central and northern Louisiana,” he said, referencing the selection of Richland Parish as the site of Meta’s $10 billion artificial intelligence data center.

The governor said a proposed constitutional amendment on the March 29 ballot to reform the state’s tax code could open new opportunities to bring jobs to north and central Louisiana. He has also tasked higher education administrators with shaping Louisiana’s universities and community college systems to support jobs and industry.

“I think it’s evident from the governor’s remarks that his intention is clearly to bring the full force of the government to do whatever we can do to mitigate the reality of this decision by IP,” said Susan Bourgeois, secretary of the Department of Louisiana Economic Development. “One of the things I started out talking about in my role was that we really had to take the whole of government approach to economic development. It’s not just a government solution to the challenges or the opportunities that we face. It really does have to be the private sector, the education sector, the public sector, all of us pulling on the same rope.”

Bourgeois said her office is currently working with five active wood-related projects in north Louisiana.

“We’ve announced 21 wood-related projects in the last seven years that our team is now going to focus on seeing about placement of employees, placement of product and how we can redeploy some of the Louisiana resources that were used at the Campti facility in those projects,” Bourgeois said.

Susie Schowen, secretary of the Louisiana Workforce Commission, said she has engaged a rapid response team, the team that responds to layoffs, who can offer services specifically for IP workers.

“The IP workers are getting services in career counseling, envisioning where their career could go and how to connect with training. We can help offset the cost of that training with the focus of getting people jobs right here in this area.”

“We want to do as much as we can to backfill, to give back, what the closure is going to cause,” Landry said. “We will work as hard as we can and the good news is you’ve got other areas of the state that are performing, and a high tide has a tendency to lift all boats. We are focused on this area, not only Natchitoches but the central and north Louisiana area. We are hyper focused on opportunity because I think that there are opportunities out there.”

Landry said there are companies around the country and around the world are looking for investments in the U.S., which aligns with President Donald Trump’s agenda to boost American manufacturing.

“Right now, that is being driven primarily by the president’s agenda and we want to be able to capture as much of that as we can. You see this great team and we have worked hard and I don’t know anyone who isn’t trying to soften the impact,” he said.

The Louisiana Workforce Commission has resources available at laworks.net/. Information on the Louisiana office of Economic Development is available at opportunitylouisiana.gov/.

Louisiana Secretary of State Nancy Landry announced new voter list maintenance data sharing agreements with Texas, Mississippi, and Arkansas. These agreements will help ensure the further accuracy of Louisiana’s voter rolls by detecting duplicate registrations within neighboring states.

“I am thankful to Secretary Nelson of Texas, Secretary Watson of Mississippi, former Secretary Thurston and current Secretary Jester of Arkansas for working with our office to help keep our voter list accurate and up-to-date,” Secretary Landry said. “Election integrity is my highest priority as Louisiana’s Secretary of State. These agreements underscore how focused my office is on maintaining safe and secure elections, while also safeguarding voters’ sensitive data.”

Secretary Landry previously announced a similar agreement with Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen in July 2024.

The Louisiana Department of Education announced the 2025 Students of the Year Regional Honorees, which included DeSoto Parish 5th Grader Whitley Ann Chadwick.

In conjunction with the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), the Department recognizes outstanding fifth, eighth, and twelfth-grade students who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, academic performance, achievements, citizenship, and service to the school and community through the Students of the Year program. Regional honorees were selected through public, charter, and nonpublic zone reviews per each BESE region.

From this outstanding group of students, one honoree per BESE region will be named a finalist. Finalists will be announced later in the school year and celebrated at an awards ceremony where the overall honorees, one per grade level, will be named.

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The following winter weather update is current as of Jan. 8 at 8:30 am. DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson wants to inform the public that the office is closely monitoring the winter weather projected to affect the area over the next 48 hours. Much of the information regarding its impact on DeSoto Parish has been up in the air due to the southern most line of this system grazing our Parish. As it stands currently, this system should mostly travel just north of DeSoto, perhaps mildly affecting the north end of the Parish.

The entire parish can still expect freezing rain, frozen roadways/bridges, and very very cold conditions. Of course, all of these details are subject to change as the system moves closer to the area and reports become more confident. Be sure to watch your local weather reports, and have the DeSoto Sheriff App for Severe Weather notifications.

Here are some things to consider, given the possibilities:
– Take necessary actions to ensure Pets have somewhere to go.
– Be prepared in the event electricity goes out.
– Check generators, bring dry firewood closer, and check batteries in flashlights.
– Remember, bridges tend to ice over first. Try to stay off the roadways as much as possible.
– If driving, take your time and be extra careful when braking and turning.
– When/if building snowmen always remember, it’s a button nose, not a carrot. Don’t be ridiculous, the song is very clear on this. Pics or it didn’t happen.

The attached report displays all individuals booked into the DeSoto Detention Center between the dates of Dec. 9-15 and includes arrests made by DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO), Mansfield Police Department (MPD), and Louisiana State Police (LSP.) All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Booking photos for each, unless they have bonded out.

Two missing teenage girls were safely located thanks to the exceptional efforts of K-9 officer Cholo, his handler Deputy Hunter Martinez, and a dedicated team of deputies. Cholo led the search team directly to the girls’ location, playing a critical role in ensuring their safe return.

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office and the many DeSoto residents who contributed to the search efforts. Community members supported the mission both on the ground and through social media, demonstrating a united effort to bring the girls home.

“All-in-all, a great effort by everyone involved,” said the Sheriff’s Office, highlighting the teamwork and commitment that made this outcome possible.

DOTD advises motorists that the below road closure on LA 3015 in DeSoto Parish has been postponed and will be rescheduled at a later date. DOTD will issue an update when that date has been finalized.

Original notification:

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that beginning on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 7:00 a.m., LA 3015 at the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad crossing at the intersection with LA 175 in DeSoto Parish will be closed.

This road closure is scheduled to be in place until Thursday, December 19, 2024 at 6:00 p.m., and is necessary to allow the railroad company to perform maintenance to the tracks. Inclement weather may require this work to be rescheduled.

This crossing is located approximately 6.62 miles east of US 171 Grand Cane.

Restrictions/Permits: Total road closure at the specified location. All vehicles will need to utilize an alternate route.

Alternate Route: Detour signage will be in place.

This work will be performed WEATHER PERMITTING.

Safety reminder:

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

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

DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson recognized Patrol Deputy Kristopher Lindsey (left) and Patrol Deputy Micah Latin (right) on Dec. 12 for their exceptional service in responding to an unconscious male, not breathing, within just the last few days. Dy. Lindsey and Dy. Latin responded without hesitation, performing life-saving techniques including proper usage of AED and CPR until EMS arrived to take over the scene.

One paramedic with 22 years of experience remarked, “It was the best use of CPR I have ever witnessed from Law Enforcement. Both deputies provided a clear and concise report of the patients condition and all measures they had taken prior to our arrival. These deputies gave the subject the best possible change for resuscitation before EMS was able to take over. Their actions were instrumental in this critical situation, demonstrating exceptional skill, professionalism, and dedication far beyond their duties.”

By Steve Graf

Today I come to you with concerns about the state of mind of so many Americans due to our recent Presidential election results and other issues. Over my 63 years of being on this earth, I’ve never seen an election carry so much weight in terms of how Americans have reacted, or should I say overreacted. I’m not here to say that your reaction was right or wrong, but rather to suggest how you might possibly move forward in life and maintain your mental wellness.

Athletes are taught very early in our careers how to a big win or a disappointing loss. My coaches always said that you have 24 hours to celebrate a victory or a loss. Then you must move forward and prepare for the next game. Don’t dwell on the loss of a game you can no longer play.

Another saying I’ve heard over the years, “Once the hay is in the barn, it’s time to move on to the next chore.” Well today many Americans need to move on to the next chore and exercise their right to either celebrate or stew in their loss, but only for 24 hours. Sometimes we must accept things we can no longer change or control. The first step to moving forward is accepting the results.

Whether it’s a game, an election, or in my case a bass tournament, no matter if it was a victory or a loss, I must move on and get ready for my next tournament. Sure, I’ll evaluate what maybe went wrong or how I made a bad decision on tournament day and then I’ll do my best to NOT make the same mistake moving forward.

Nothing is more important than our mental health, as it can affect not only our own personal wellness, but those around us daily. How we handle defeat or victory can impact our family and friends in a negative or positive way. It’s all about how you as an individual recognize the situation and choose to move on. But it is a choice!

Years ago, a former boss of mine gave me some great advice on how to handle “butt chewings” from the man who was the CEO of the company I worked for. This CEO was a former marine and could peel the paint off the wall once he got bent out of shape on a particular issue. He told me that you can’t control what he says to you, but you can control how you receive it.

This resonated with me, and even though I only had a couple of chewings from this CEO over my 14 years of working with him, it made a huge difference on how I reacted to him. I think my athletic background played a huge roll in how I handled any blunt critiques because a few of my coaches were famous for their hard style of coaching.

So many kids today that play athletics, don’t or can’t handle hard coaching. Kids have gotten soft in the last twenty years and take criticism personally and will often choose to walk away from the team even though the coach is only trying to make them a better player. They think the coach doesn’t like them and would rather quit the sport rather than be coached.

We, as a society and parents, need to get back to tough love with our kids and do a better job of preparing them for life’s challenges. Stop teaching them to quit just because an election, a game, or their job didn’t go the way they wanted. Teach that everybody does not get a trophy! Instead, teach them how to handle and overcome a loss, a tough coach or maybe a hot-headed boss. Teach them that you don’t play the game for the coach, you play because you love the game!

All the above has been on my heart recently now that I’ve seen how distraught some people are after the recent Presidential election. People have literally lost their minds over something they have very little control over other than a single vote. Here’s some food for thought…. no matter who is the sitting President of the United States, when we wake up tomorrow, we will still go about our daily lives and routines the same way we have for years.

While we might not ALL agree on certain polices or who is running our country, one thing is for certain; trials and tribulations are headed our way and it’s up to us as Americans on how we handle them. Tonight, when you lay down for a peaceful night’s rest, just remember, everything is going to be ok. May God bless each of you and this great nation we live in, he owes us this because we have never turned our back on him. Ha!

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Heith Parker, the DeSoto Parish School District’s beloved Director of Facilities and Operations, recently passed away. His decades of service to the school system and dedication and service to the students and staff will forever be cherished.

Parker began his journey with DeSoto Parish Schools in 1998-1999 as an Adult Education teacher and coach at North DeSoto High School, where he contributed to the football and baseball programs. His passion for education and mentorship was evident as he transitioned to teaching Physical Education at North DeSoto Elementary and Middle School from 1999 to 2007 while continuing his role as a football coach.

In 2007, Parker’s commitment to excellence led him to serve as Assistant Principal at North DeSoto Elementary (Grades 3-5), where he spent six impactful years fostering a culture of learning and leadership. In 2013, he was elevated to a district-level role as Supervisor of Maintenance, later becoming Director of Facilities and Operations. Over the last decade, his expertise and vision ensured schools’ safety, efficiency, and growth, leaving a legacy of excellence in every project he led.

A proud graduate of Stanley High School, Parker pursued higher education earning a Bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University Shreveport and a Master’s in Supervision and Administration from Northwestern State University. His academic and professional achievements reflected his commitment to lifelong learning and leadership.

Beyond his professional contributions, Parker was a devoted husband to his wife, Barbara, a loving father to Stephanie and Madison, and a proud grandfather to Beckett, who brought him immense joy.

Parker’s legacy is one of compassion, leadership, and dedication. He was a cornerstone of DeSoto Parish Schools, touching countless lives and leaving an indelible mark on the community. While his presence will be deeply missed, the values he embodied and the impact he made will continue to make a difference in DeSoto Parish Schools.

Each year on December 18, Answer the Phone Like Buddy the Elf Day encourages fans of the hit movie Elf to embrace their inner Buddy with his signature greeting: “Buddy the Elf, what’s your favorite color?” This playful tradition brings laughter and festive cheer to the holiday season.

Modern holiday films like Elf have sparked quirky traditions that add a sense of joy to December. From dressing up as Buddy to organizing themed watch parties, these activities remind us to embrace the magic and silliness of the season.

So, pick up the phone, channel Buddy, and let the holiday spirit ring through your words—it’s a simple way to spread joy.