Russell founded Stevens  Tractor  Company,  served people faithfully, fought the good fight, and is now walking the streets of gold with his Savior and Lord, King Jesus. He was born in Vivian Louisiana in 1943. The family moved to Snyder Texas in the mid 50’s where he graduated from Snyder High School in 1961. He moved back to Louisiana and attended Northwestern State University, studied and taught industrial arts, but earned a history/teaching degree in history in 1965. He was a patriot, who served our country in the Army National Guard from 1966 to 1972 earning a sharpshooter badge.

Though he did not actively pursue a teaching position he worked for a little while at the Sunbeam plant in Coushatta where he met his wife of 53 years. Russell and Linda were married in March of 1967. In 1968, the first child was born, William “Billy” Robert Stevens.  In 1970, the last child was born whom he named Tanya Renee.

Russell began selling insurance for Aetna, then later took a salesman position with Playtex Corporation. Playtex was a company that sold women’s undergarments such as bras and panties. His sales territory included Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma and parts of Mississippi & Missouri. While on his travels he would see tractors for sale on the roadsides. He would purchase these tractors, bring them back and with the help of friends, such as Gerald “Tucky” Jones, work on and put them up for sale. In 1976 he started Stevens Tractor in a small tin building on highway 71. He continued to work for Playtex even while the tractor business was going. Eventually he left Playtex as the tractor business began to grow.

Later in the 1980’s the tractor company built a bigger store, still on highway 71. In 2006, Russell retired from the business. He later enjoyed woodworking, tinkering with old cars, trucks and tractors with good friends. He attended numerous car shows winning several trophies.

If anyone were to ask Russell how he did all of it or that he was a self made man, he would tell you really quick “the only reason he was where he was at was because of God”. He had a strong faith in God. Russell accepted Jesus as his savior at an early age in life. He wanted others to know Jesus as their Savior and Lord as well. He served in the church as a teacher for many years. He also believed in prayer. He served the least of these and enjoyed going to the nursing home and praying with those there and to other shut-ins. Visiting people in the hospital and praying with them. He didn’t just read his Bible, he studied it, and he didn’t just pray, he had a relationship with Jesus.

The legacy that Russell leaves behind is one of a father that prayed for his family, a father figure to his son-in-law, a grandfather that loved his grandchildren. A man that showed us what it meant to love your spouse through good times and bad. More importantly, a man that loved Jesus, His Word, the importance of praying and knowing Jesus as your Savior.

William Russell Stevens was preceded in death by his parents William Reid and Annie Lee Roberson Stevens; his grandparents William Ronel and Lucy Madden Stevens; Julius and Nancy Born Roberson.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years Linda Carolyn Beard Stevens; one son William Robert “Billy” Stevens and wife Stephanie of Loveland Colorado; one daughter Tanya Cormier and husband Brent of Coushatta La; eight grandchildren John Wesley Cormier, Elizabeth Stevens, Silas Stevens, Sarah Stevens, Grace Stevens, John Robert Stevens, Joshua Cormier, Tommy Bellard; one brother Carroll Reid and wife Roberta Stevens of Ringgold La; several great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews; special Sister in-laws; Dottie Bell and husband Troy of Coushatta, and Bonnie Sue Rambin of Tyler Texas; special cousins “Cooter” Madden of Shreveport and Bobbie Born of Vivian.

Pallbearers will be John Wesley Cormier, Silas Stevens, John Robert Stevens, Clyde Harper, Tim Doughty, Jason Bell, and Patrick Murray. Honorary pallbearers will be Thurman Dinkins, Tucky Jones, Mike Thornton, Vonda McElwee and Cindy Hay.

Funeral Services will be 10 A.M. Saturday, February 27, 2021 at Open Door Fellowship Baptist Church in Coushatta, Louisiana. Visitation will be 5 – 7 P.M. Friday, February 26, 2021 at Rose Neath funeral home in Coushatta, Louisiana.

Officiating will be Bro. John Patrick Handy, Assisting will be Bro. Tom Smith, Bro. Butch Rogers and Bro. Steven McAbee.

Interment will follow at Ajax Cemetery, Ajax, Louisiana.

Memorials may be made to The Well Ministries or Open Door Fellowship.

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In Loving Memory of Sara Bell Ferguson McKissack 

A funeral service celebrating the life of Sara McKissack will be held at Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 2:00 P.M. in Coushatta, LA.  Officiating will be Bro. Terry Wheless.  Interment will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery near Hall Summit, LA.  Family will receive friends for viewing one hour prior to service.

Sara Ferguson McKissack died peacefully in her home surrounded by her caregiver Crystal Woodall and family on February 21, 2021 in Coushatta, LA.  Sara was an only child of Maudis and Lodie Ferguson.  She was a life-long member of Red River Parish and Crossroads Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School for many years.  She loved the Lord with every bit of her heart.  She loved canning vegetables, sports – especially football, and working in her yard, keeping it immaculate at all times.  She treasured her children and grandchildren and adored her five great grandchildren.  Her dog Ditto was her best friend and never left her side.  She was so funny, quick witted and very intelligent, but her sweet smile, caring heart and loving warmth will be forever missed by so many.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Maudis and Lodie Ferguson; daughter, Paula McKissack; two grandsons, Brooks Thomas McKissack and Philip Bounds.

Left to cherish her memories are daughter, Cheryl and husband, Kevin Shrell; son, James McKissack and fiancé, Rhonda Orr; granddaughter, Tara McKissack and fiancé, Robert Cole; grandson, Josh Bounds and great grandchildren, Easton Cole, Jentry Jo Bounds, Farrah, Kaylee and River McKissack and surviving fiancé of Brooks McKissack, Lori Desadier and son, Jayce and many more cousins and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Tim Kennedy, Gary Orr, Seth Orr, Stephen Bounds and Leon Kellogg.

The family would like to give thanks to her long term physician, Dr. Robert Hernandez.  A special and personal thank you to Crystal Woodall for her endless and tireless efforts and support.  Also the family would like to thank Rhonda Orr for everything she did and the compassionate care she provided to Sara and to everyone who called, texted or stopped by with words of comfort and care.

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A graveside service celebrating the life of Bobbie Cannon Long, 86, of Martin, LA will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at Martin Baptist Church Cemetery in Martin, LA with Rev. Rick McDonald officiating. Services under the direction of Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home Coushatta, LA.

Bobbie is preceded in death by her parents Ocie Olah and Ola Morgan Cannon, and her husband of 55 years Donald Long.

Bobbie was born in Coushatta, LA on January 1, 1935, and went to be with her Lord on February 22, 2021.

She worked at the Red River Parish Library for 35 years, but her main vocation was a homemaker and honoring her Savior Jesus Christ.

Bobbie loved the Lord and always looked forward to attending church. She also loved her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren very much!

Bobbie is survived by her daughters Vickye Graves and husband Danny of Bossier City, Donna Hillman and husband Paul of Martin, and one son Andy Long and wife Melissa of Martin; one granddaughter Kelli Renwick and husband Nathan of Bentonville, AR;  grandsons Brandon Hillman and wife Kayla of Martin, Lee Graves and wife Chelsea of Bossier City, Cody Hillman and wife Lauren of Martin, Josh Hillman and wife Brooke of Martin, and Matt Long and wife Anna of Saline; great-grandchildren, Lindsay, Kailee, Anabeth, Audrey, Hayden, Jackson, Ally Kate, Ellie Reese, Hudson, Kaden, Emmy Rae and Parker Kate. And brother-in-law Elton Partridge.

Pallbearers will be Matt Long, Brandon Hillman, Cody Hillman, Lee Graves, Josh Hillman, David Long, Dennis Gay and Nathan Renwick.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Christus Coushatta and her home health nurses for their care and compassionate treatment.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Martin Baptist Church or to the donor’s charity of choice.

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School Superintendent Alison Hughes on Tuesday declared one more day of 100% virtual learning.  The reason is continuing water pressure problems.

Hughes’ message to parents, students and staff was, “All Red River students will continue virtual learning Wednesday, February 24^th, due to continued inadequate water supply at all schools. Parents may continue to pick up Chromebooks at Red River Junior High and Red River High.  Student learning packets can again be picked up at Red River Elementary School. Schools will call with updated information about student assignments.  Please remember to check your Remind account for information from specific teachers. 

Hughes said they will re-evaluate the situation and issue a statement each afternoon on the status of getting school rooms open to students again.

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Red River Parish Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness has drinking water for anyone still without water at their home.  OEP Director Shane Hubbard told The Journal Tuesday, “This office has secured a 2000 gallon potable water tanker for anyone still in need of potable water.”

Starting tomorrow citizens can go between the hours of 7:00am and 4:00pm  at the police jury road barn and bring containers and or jugs to fill. Citizens must provide their own container. 

The address is:  718 Fairgrounds road in Coushatta.

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Job Duties will consist of working within Red River Parish landowners to perform feral swine control measures. The position will be a full-time, Mon- Friday 7:30-4:00.  The pay will be $17.00 per hour.

Please email resumes to sarah.elias@la.nacdnet.net or erica.baxley@usda.gov or  you can mail them to the Red River SWCD Office at 1311 Ringgold Avenue, Coushatta, LA 71019 by February 28. No resumes will be accepted after this date.

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From the first tip-off to the final buzzer the Riverdale Lady Rebels were in charge of their first state playoff game against SIA.  Final Riverdale 53 and SIA 28.

Riverdale advances to play on Friday afternoon at 3:00 pm.  They will play the DeSoto School Thunderbirds.  On Tuesday afternoon DeSoto defeated Tallulah Academy 56 to 23.  That set up the Riverdale-DeSoto match in the semi-finals of the State A tournament.

In the winning effort top scorers were Rylee Kate Woodard with 15 and Kenly Loftin with 14.  Other. scorers were Jessie Kate Cobb with 9, Rhonda Black with 3 and Pacey Lindsey with 2

By the end of the game, coach Ty Hester had substituted for all of the starters.  This gave the bench players some valuable game experience.  They handled it well.  Mary Claire Jones scored two 3-point shots, Jadyn King had a 2-point bucket, Emily Cason scored 2.

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When the Rebels took the court to start the second half Tuesday afternoon they came with a different look than in the first half.  Riverdale went on to edge DeSoto School 49 to 44.

DeSoto School controlled the opening tip and scored first.  In fact the Rebels were down by 5 after the first quarter.  Second quarter saw the Rebels and Thurderbirds trade baskets with Riverdale on top at the half by two points.

The Rebels seemed like they heard some profound words of wisdom from Coach Ty Hester in the locker room.  Attitude and performance seemed different.  They  quickly put some scoring distance between themselves and DeSoto and held at least a 5-point margin for the rest of the game.

Ty Jones looked a bit down in the mouth in the second half when he went to the free-throw line and missed twice.  But he made up for it shortly after with a three pointer from well outside the circle.  Jones put up a total of 17 points to lead the Rebel attach.  Reagan Huddleston had a great game on offense and defense.  He added 10 points to the total.  Parker Almond put up 9.  Denver Williams had an outstanding day grabbing the rebounds and he scored 7 points.  Caden Long and Paul Messenger each contributed 3.

The final game Tuesday saw the Delta Academy Raiders dominate the Tensas Academy Chiefs 96 to 68.  That means Riverdale will face Delta in the semi-final game at 7:00 pm Friday night.

Journal Sports will provide live play-by-play of both Riverdale games Friday.  You will get a text shortly before each game begins.

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By Brad Dison

At the turn of the twentieth century, traveling by commercial steamships, commonly called ocean liners, was all the rage.  The finest luxuries were reserved exclusively for first class passengers such as the most exquisite dining saloons, elaborate state rooms, libraries, smoking rooms, gymnasiums, and exclusive access to the main deck, called the promenade deck.  Second class passengers enjoyed more modest experiences with sparsely decorated smaller state rooms, smoking rooms, libraries, and dining facilities.  Third class passengers were housed in cabins that contained little more than a bed, were fed adequate meals, and had access to few, if any, amenities. 

Deep in the bowels of these mammoth vessels, well below the third-class areas, were the ships’ engine rooms and boiler rooms.  These rooms were extremely hot and dirty.  Workers in the boiler rooms usually worked shirtless due to the heat and were collectively called “the black gang” because they were usually covered with black coal soot.  Black gangs consisted of stokers, firemen, trimmers, and a “peggy,” the firemen’s steward who brought food and refreshments to the group.           

John Priest was a professional seaman from the port city of Southampton, England.  He worked as a black gang stoker on several British steam ships.  He and the other stokers had the back-breaking task of shoveling coal into the boiler’s firebox.  John had worked on the sea since his youth and planned to have a long seafaring career.

In April 1915, on the eve of World War I, the British Admiralty converted the two-year-old RMS Alcantara, a royal mail ship, into an armed merchant cruiser.  Workers fitted 6-inch guns, antiaircraft guns, and added depth charges to the ship.  For almost a year, with John as part of the ship’s black gang, the Alcantara searched for German ships and submarines in the North Atlantic Ocean.  On February 29, 1916, the Alcantara intercepted the Greif, a German merchant raider ship disguised as a Norwegian ship.  The crew of the Alcantara signaled the Greif to stop for inspection.  The Greif slowed to a near stop, but as the Alcantara reached a distance of about 2,000 yards away, the crew of the Greif increased its speed and opened fire.  The Alcantara returned fire.  For nearly two hours, the ships exchanged volleys, and both received extensive, fatal damages.  The Alcantara capsized and sank, followed by the Greif later that same day.  68 men from the Alcantara died along with 230 men from the Greif.  John was injured by shrapnel from a torpedo, but he survived.       

The British Admiralty requisitioned the passenger ship HMHS Britannic as a hospital ship.  Rooms on the upper deck which had been designed for pleasure were transformed into rooms for the wounded.  The first-class dining and reception rooms were transformed into operating rooms.  On the morning of November 21, 1916, Britannic was transporting wounded soldiers from the Greek island of Lemnos back to England through the Kea Channel when an explosion rocked the ship.  Unbeknownst to the crew of the Britannic, exactly a month earlier, a German submarine, the U-73, had planted mines in the Kea Channel.  All efforts to save the Britannic failed.  Within 65 minutes after striking the mine, Britannic disappeared into the water.  Britannic holds the record for being the largest ship lost in World War I and is the world’s largest sunken passenger ship.  Once again, John survived.

The British Admiralty converted the RMS Asturius, a royal mail ship, into a hospital ship.  John joined the black gang of the Asturius.  On the night of March 20, 1917, John’s ship was steaming toward Southampton with all of its navigational lights on.  Large illuminated red crosses distinguished John’s ship as a hospital ship.  The Asturius had just disembarked approximately 1,000 wounded soldiers at Avonmouth and was headed for Southampton, England.  At around midnight, German U-boat UC-66 torpedoed John’s ship.  The crew aimed the damaged ship toward the shore and ran it aground.  Nearly two dozen people died and many more were injured but again, John survived.

John was next assigned to the SS Donegal.  Built in 1904, the Donegal served as a passenger ferry for an English railway company until World War I.  The British Admiralty converted this ship into an ambulance ship to ferry wounded soldiers from France back to England. On April 17, 1917, the Donegal was ferrying 610 lightly wounded soldiers across the English Channel.  Ambulance ships had been required to be clearly marked and lit to make them easier to identify.  However, the British Navy disregarded these requirements after the Germany Navy began targeting these marked ships.  The Donegal was not marked as an ambulance ship.  Unbeknownst to the crew of the Donegal, a German submarine, the UC-21, was lurking beneath the water.  The German submarine fired torpedoes at the Donegal.  Explosions shook the ship.  Within a matter of minutes, the Donegal sank.  The blasts from the torpedoes and subsequent sinking claimed the lives of 29 wounded British soldiers and 12 members of the crew.  John survived, albeit with a serious head injury.       

John’s reputation preceded him.  Rumors of John’s survival record spread throughout black gangs in England.  Rumors also spread that many of John’s black gang coworkers did not survive the sinking’s.  Many believed that it was bad luck to work on the same ship as the unsinkable stoker.  Each time John arrived at a new ship to take his place among its black gang, the other workers refused to work.  John, in body, may have been unsinkable, but his career was not.  Unable to find a black gang that would work with him, John had no choice but to find employment on dry land.  His days at sea had ended.           

John Priest, the unsinkable stoker, holds the distinction of being the only person to survive the sinking’s of five ships which included the HMHS Asturias, RMS Alcantara, SS Donegal, HMHS Britannic, and another ship.  The first ship’s sinking which John Priest miraculously survived, albeit with frost-bitten toes and an injured leg, happened on the morning of April 15, 1912.  That ship, arguably the most famous ship in history, was called the RMS Titanic.   

Sources:

1. The Spokesman-Review(Spokane, Washington), April 17, 1912, p.2.
2. The Guardian(London, England), March 28, 1917, p.5.  

3.  The Times (London, England), April 23, 1917, p.10. 

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By Brad Ford

The No. 3-ranked Lake Arthur Lady Tigers fought off a feisty Red River Bulldogs’ squad Monday night to move one step closer to a return trip to the LHSAA Class 2A State Tournament with a 63-41 victory. The regional round win upped the Lady Tigers’ overall record to 28-4 on the season, while Red River ended their year at 8-11.

Although the contest was a back-and-forth affair for most of the first half, LA put the clamps down on defense in the back-half of the ball game to pull away for the 22-point triumph. The Lady Tigers used another strong offensive showing from senior Deonna Brister, as she pumped in 24 points to lead the charge. Katherine Leonards and Kali Hornsby also found their way into double-digits for LA.

Red River (8-11) only trailed 36-29 going into the halftime intermission and cut the lead to 36-31 with the opening possession of the second half. However, LA went on a 17-4 run to close the third quarter and put the contest out of reach.

The two teams traded shots in what was an exciting first period of basketball at “Nookie” Moore Gymnasium. Red River’s Jaeden French-Solten kept her squad within striking distance by knocking down 10 points, including a pair of 3-point bombs from well beyond the arc. The Lady Tigers would grab a lead they would never relinquish at the 4:12 mark when Leonards drilled a pair from the charity stripe and Hornsby backed it up with a layup of her own to go up 11-7. French-Solten buried a 3-ball to bring Red River within one, however the Lady Tigers would go on a 7-0 run to close the first quarter with a 20-12 lead. Leonards capped the period with a runner with three seconds left on the clock and would finish the first with seven points. Hornsby dropped in five of her own, while Brister chipped in four. Darrah Broussard and Vivian Sketoe each added two for the Lady Tigers. Erica Babers aided French-Solten in the scoring department for the Bulldogs by pitching in two in the first stanza.

The Lady Tigers (28-4) kept their momentum going into the second period and built their lead up to 27-14 by going on yet another 7-0 run early. Brister scored at the rim on a beautiful dish from Sketoe, while Leonards added another two to her credit in the stretch. Brister converted a big “and 1” play with 6:06 left to go in the half to move the Lady Tiger lead to 27-14. Red River quickly answered right back by using an 10-1 push of their own to chop the lead to 28-24 with just over two minutes remaining in the half. Katlyn Antilley drilled two 3-pointers in the run for the Bulldogs and knocked in yet another later in the stanza. LA was able to build their advantage back up to 36-29 on a pair of free throws by Brooke Daboval and a layup from Brister with nine ticks left to go into the half with a seven-point lead. Brister would pace the Lady Tigers with eight in the second frame, while Leonards added four more. Daboval drilled her two from the charity stripe and Hornsby added another bucket. Antilley paced the Bulldogs with nine tallies in the second, while French-Solten and Jariayh Hamilton each added four.

After Red River cut the lead to 36-31 to open the third period, it was all Lady Tigers from there. LA went on a 9-0 run to answer back and up their advantage to 45-31. Brister popped in four in that stretch, while Daboval knocked down a long 3-pointer. Brister pumped in 10 of the Lady Tigers’ 17 points in the third, while Hornsby added four and Daboval drilled her three. Cierra Smith paced Red River with four points, while French-Solten added her final two of the evening.

In a low-scoring fourth stanza, LA was able to convert 8-of-11 from the charity stripe down the stretch. Sketoe led the way with five points, three coming from the line. Brister and Leonards knocked down two freebies, while Daboval also iced one. Hamilton was able to add four more to her totals for the Bulldogs, while Antilley found her way into double figures for the game with another bucket.

Brister paced the Lady Tigers’ attack with her 24-point showing, while Leonards pumped in 13 and Hornsby finished with 11. Sketoe ended her night with seven points, while Daboval added six in the win. Broussard rounded out the scoring with her two markers.

French-Solten ended her sparkling evening with 16 points and Antilley also hit double-digits with 11. Hamilton was able to chip in eight for Red River, while Smith added four and Babers pitched in two.

After the game Red River Principal JC Dickey congratulated the Lady Bulldogs on a great season.

Love my lady bulldogs, they play so hard and represent us well.  Thank you players and coaches for an amazing season. To my senior girls, I sure will miss watching you play next season but know awesome things are in store for you.  Coach Antilley, thank you for everything you have done for RRHS, you have had an amazing career.  To the returning girls the future is bright and I am excited to see what’s next as y’all continue to show 2A lady bulldogs are here to stay.

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The Red River boys basketball begins its playoff season later this week.  The playoff brackets have been issued by the Louisiana High School Athletic Association.  They have Red River at home on Friday.

Amite will be coming to play Red River in the Dawg Pound.  The game will be Friday night at 6:00 pm.

Here is ticket information posted by the school: 
Game Time 6:00 pm
Tickets are $8.00 each.

Pre-sale will be Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.   There will be no tickets sold at the door.   

Tickets may be purchased at RRHS Main Office from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm.

The brackets set up a potential rematch for the Bulldogs.  The winner Friday night could face Winnfield in the next game.  Winnfield’s first game is against St. Helena College and Career Academy.  A Winnfield win sets up a rematch with the Bulldogs, who beat Winnfield twice already this season.

Journal Sports will provide coverage of the game beginning a few minutes before tip-off Friday.

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By Royal Alexander

By simply but powerfully extolling the virtues of traditional American values, he built a vast conservative movement still growing at the time of his death

Despite what his critics have claimed in the wake of his passing, the legacy of Rush Limbaugh is really not complicated at all. 

Over 32 years, he reached millions of Americans daily and, by merely reminding his vast audience of the unique nature of America’s miraculous founding, he created a solid, permanent, conservative movement in this country.  They trusted him to be their constant, their anchor in an increasingly putrid cultural cesspool.  He, in turn, empowered them with the truth and they never left him because he never left them. 

Some of his detractors this week have referred to Rush’s legacy as “controversial” or “divisive” or that his rhetoric was “harsh.”  Only to the Left, which was not nearly as offended by his manner as it was by his message. 

However, to the great Silent Majority in this country, he was positively and powerfully enlightening.  Using simple but compelling word pictures, he articulated daily what traditional American values really are.  His substantial but succinctly stated commentary created the opportunity for millions of Americans to listen, learn, and ultimately come to the conclusion that “I’m a conservative.”  It’s hypocritical to hear the Left describe Rush as having “dog-whistled” various “dark” messages to conservatives.  All the while, of course, the harsh daily mocking of conservatives from the tabloid media on the Left is never condemned. 

What is some of this “negative” commentary Rush offered? That it is Ok to love America, to believe that America, while not perfect, is truly exceptional and truly the “last best hope of man on earth”; that it is perfectly acceptable and logical to put “America First”; that it’s perfectly acceptable and legitimate to be unapologetically pro-family, pro-life and pro-2nd Amendment.  

He made clear that it’s not only acceptable but completely accurate to believe that our free market economy has lifted millions out of poverty and is the envy of the world; to believe that a strong national defense, lower taxes, less regulation, limited government and religious freedom are, demonstrably, the best national policy; that it’s Ok to expect legal immigrants to learn our language and assimilate into our culture and to expect illegal aliens to be kept out of our country; to recognize that much of our public education system has failed abysmally and that our children are not being educated at all but, rather, indoctrinated in Marxist thought.

He was one of the first to notice and then call out the Cancel Culture that, fueled by the unfettered power of a social media sector that enormously benefits from (and abuses) federal law—as well as the national tabloid media, had arisen like a virus to stamp out conservative speech.  He was also one of the first to note the treacherous effect on our constitutional republic of a massive, permanent, liberal federal bureaucracy we now know as the “Deep State.”

Rush Limbaugh was truly a lion who roared and his voice and message will continue to ring out long after his death by providing a political and historical roadmap in our quest to preserve America’s liberty and greatness.

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By Curtis R. Joseph, Jr.

As a consequence of my mother’s military service, I was fortunate to spend some of my early childhood growing up in Germany.  Due to the Europeans’ widespread use of the rail system, we frequently traveled by train.  Suffice it to say, I soon developed an affinity for that particular mode of transportation.  During the Summer of 2016, I was fortunate to share the experience with my children when we drove to Marshall, Texas and caught the Amtrak Texas Eagle to Dallas. 

Aside from the gentleman who entered the train carrying what can only be described as a case for chainsaw, we had a fabulous time.  And, the roundtrip fare was less than the cost of fuel, had we driven.  The train was equipped with a viewing cabin, which afforded panoramic views of the East Texas countryside.  We enjoyed each other’s company, and the difference in travel time proved to be negligible.  

The train deposited us at Union Station, which left only a short walk to the Hyatt Regency.  During our weekend in Dallas, we walked everywhere we wanted to go.  Among our destinations was Dealey Plaza and the museum that is located on the 6th floor of what was formerly the Texas School Book Depository. 

Although I am a fan of the former President, I didn’t deceive myself into thinking that my young children would want to spend a great deal of time being inundated with information relative to JFK.  However, quite to my surprise, the kids were in no rush to leave the museum, the “grassy knoll”, or the plaza area.  Like most of us, they were taken in by the aura of a leader, who, despite his very human flaws, nevertheless inspired.  

As we rode the Texas Eagle back to Marshall, my wife and I began to debrief on the weekend’s trip.  As we shared our thoughts, a particular one resonated in my mind:  How vitally important it is to have leaders who inspire.  To that point, I recently came across the following JFK quote: “I look forward to an America which will not be afraid of grace and beauty, which will protect the beauty of our natural environment, which will preserve the great old American houses and squares and parks of our national past and which will build handsome and balanced cities for our future.”  What an amazing concept!  Certainly, many leaders have referenced an appreciation for Kennedy.  And many cite him as one who inspired their actions.  Yet, he was a relatively young man when he left his mark on history.  

Much like JFK, Martin Luther King, Jr. was a young man when he went to Birmingham to address the injustices that pervaded the city.  In fact, he was only thirty-four.  As it regards Birmingham, this past February, my wife and I took a group of high school students to visit the city. While in Birmingham, we visited sites such as the 16th Street Baptist Church, which was bombed on September 15, 1963.  As a consequence of the bombing, four young girls lost their lives.  Ironically, our tour guide advised us that the Sunday School lesson that morning was titled “A Love That Forgives”. 

The church bombing was one of three such bombings that had occurred within an 11-day span and came on the heels of a Federal Court order that mandated the integration of Alabama’s public school system. In this light, it is seen that the bombings were instituted as push back against the progress that was being made due to the Civil Rights Movement, which was being spearheaded by the young Dr. King.  Again, despite their youth, both JFK and MLK were able to achieve great things because they inspired others to be more than themselves.  

Although they provide monumental examples of inspiration from the standpoint of iconic, national heroes, trust that the influence of local, hometown heroes cannot be overstated.  Due to the fact that we encounter our local heroes and heroines on a regular basis, their influence has the potential to be even more pervasive and lasting.  In short, we can actually touch them. 

We should also be aware of the fact that we can each live a life worthy of emulation.  We can live the type of life that serves as an inspiration to others.  Even our chance encounters can leave a lasting impression.  That impression can be a good one, or it can be an unpleasant one.  We CAN be difference makers should we choose to do so.

In closing, I’d like to reference another JFK quote.  During his 1961 address to the National Industrial Conference Board, President Kennedy stated, “For I can assure you that we love our country, not for what it was, though it has always been great…not for what it is, though of this we are greatly proud…but, for what it someday can, and, through the effort of us all, someday will be.”  Soaring rhetoric meant to inspire and capture a soaring ideal.

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Red River High’s JROTC program has plenty to be proud of.  Their team participating in the Joint Leadership Academic Bowl is moving on.  The school posted: Way to go and represent RRHS JROTC.

Congratulations are due to the following students:

Daniel Bailey
Sydni Tingle-Smith
Tarik Hussein
Terry Jefferson

This team of students has advanced to the second round of the College Options, JROTC Joint Leadership Academic Bowl, which is an on-line, timed, academic competition against other JROTC teams worldwide.  The students compete for possible scholarships.  

This team of Sophomore and Junior students worked together and made the cut to advance to the second round of the competition.  They are the only team in Louisiana to advance to the next round.  If they make it through this round, they will travel to Washington DC for the final round representing Air Force JROTC against other finalists from around the world.  

Again, congratulations to Daniel Bailey, Sydni Tingle-Smith, Tarik Hussein and Terry Jefferson.

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Snow and ice accumulation last week on buildings resulted in many collapsing under the weight.  Others were damaged, including several that were already in a state of disrepair.

Last issue we told you about the large warehouse at Almond Brothers Lumber that collapsed.  Another large building that gave way was a storage building at Ed Lester Farms.  Will of God Ministries had the back half of the roof collapse under the weight of snow.

The long-vacant building that was part of Marry Ann’s Hardware gave way.  Most of the east wall façade peeled off and the center of the roof collapsed.

Many small carports and garages gave way under the crush of snow and ice.

Shoppers at Rivertown Market are dodging drips and buckets.  Portions of the ceiling tile caved in from water leaking from between sections of the roof.  Fortunately the building held, but it caused quite a mess.

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Lonnie “Sonny” Creighton Bates

June 13, 1933 to February 16, 2021

https://redriverparishjournal.com/2021/02/20/lonnie-sonny-creighton-bates/

Kate Elizabeth Harrison Frick

August 3, 1924 to February 19, 2021

https://redriverparishjournal.com/2021/02/20/kate-elizabeth-harrison-frick/

Randy Lynn Quick

June 4, 1974 to February 16, 2021

https://redriverparishjournal.com/2021/02/21/randy-lynn-quick/

William Sherwood Ward

May 8, 1938 to February 21, 2021

https://redriverparishjournal.com/2021/02/23/william-sherwood-ward/

Bobbie Cannon Long

January 1, 1935 to February 2, 2021

https://redriverparishjournal.com/2021/02/24/bobbie-cannon-long/

Sara Bell Ferguson McKissack

July 19, 1932 to February 21, 2021

https://redriverparishjournal.com/2021/02/24/sara-bell-ferguson-mckissack/

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NSU Posted: As conditions continue to improve in regards to power and water restoration, Northwestern State University will begin holding in-person classes beginning Wednesday, Feb. 24 on campuses in Natchitoches, Leesville and Alexandria. Faculty and staff work schedules will also return to normal Wednesday. 

Drug and alcohol awareness meeting will be held on Wednesday at Freedom Worship Center of Coushatta @ 5:30 pm. We have 20 available seats. You must wear your mask. Hope to see you there. In box me to secure your seat.

Red River Elementary School reminded parents, “If you did not pick up a packet Tuesday, please come by Wednesday morning. There is only one packet for this week.”

Red River High has posted over a dozen scholarship opportunities on its social media page.  Here is a great way to offset the cost of a college education.

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Graveside services for William Sherwood Ward, 82, of Coushatta, LA will be held at 4 P.M. Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at Holley Springs Cemetery.  Services under the direction of Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home, Coushatta, LA.  Mask and social distancing required for graveside service.

Mr. Ward was born May 8, 1938 in Coushatta, LA and passed away February 21, 2021.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ethel Leona Ward; one daughter, Peggy Elaine Marks; one great-grandchild, Harley Madason Ward; three brothers and one sister.

Mr. Ward is survived by two sons, Robert W. Ward, Sr. and wife, Sherry and Tommy Daniel Ward; three daughters, Julia Marie Ward, Rhonda Renee Sharpley and husband, Johnny, and Omega Lee Mason; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

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Public Schools in the parish are going to 100% virtual learning.  This is due to continuing problems with the city water system that feeds all schools. 

On Monday afternoon Superintendent Alison Hughes sent the word to students, staff and parents:  Due to inadequate water supply at all schools, ALL Red River students will begin Virtual Learning tomorrow, Tuesday, February 23rd. Our schools need adequate water pressure for cleaning, cooking, and flushing toilets. At this time, we do not have acceptable water pressure to make these accommodations.

Students at Red River JUNIOR HIGH and Red River HIGH SCHOOL without devices at home, may go to their school to check out a device. Students at Red River ELEMENTARY may pick up learning packets at their school. All schools will call this evening with more information about their plans for virtual learning and device or packet pickup.

We will issue another update about returning to school as more information becomes available. Just like you, we want what is best for our Bulldog students! Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we all navigate this time together. Have a good afternoon.

High School Principal JC Dickey gave some specific directions to students:
Good evening parents and students, this is Mr. Dickey, Principal of RRHS.  I hope everyone had an amazing 2 week break with an extra week off for the snow.  I would like to thank all of the students for coming to intercession grade recovery week. We had over 100 students participate that week.  We understand there was serious power and water outages across the parish and pray that this message finds you all safe and restored.  But we realize some of the area is still without utilities and this makes reopening schools extremely difficult.  Until we can be fully operational, we will transition back to completely virtual until it is safe for all students and faculty to return to campus.  

This means we need all in-person students to come pick up their chromebooks and chargers.  The school will be open tomorrow from 8:30am-12:30pm for students to pick up their chromebooks they may have left at school over the break.  We need all in-person students to come to school during this time to pick up their chromebooks and chargers from their classroom. If the internet is out at home, students will need to log into their Chromebook while on campus to check what assignments need to be completed. The WiFi will be on at the school and in the parking lot if students need to come by to check on or submit an assignment.  

Until we return back to on-campus learning, all assignments will be posted in your students Google Classrooms, Email, and on Edgenuity daily. Please have your student log on and complete everything by the due dates. These assignments must be completed on time because when we return to school there will be no time to go back to those assignments as we will move forward.

For students at Red River Elementary: You may pick up learning packets at the school.

Packet pick up for PK3-5th will be from 11-3 Tuesday.

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The storm closures of Red River public schools is extended one more day.  Late Sunday afternoon School Superintendent Alison Hughes said a water shortage is behind them being unable to open Monday.

Hughes said, “Due to a final report from town officials that we will not have adequate water supply to all of our schools tomorrow, we have had to cancel classes for Monday, February 22. We know that officials and town workers have been working diligently to restore water, but with the limited supply, we are unable to return to classes on Monday.”

About the lost class time, Hughes said, “We are finalizing a plan to make up lost instructional time for all of our students.”  

Hughes added, “We will update all parents and staff by 4:00 Monday concerning school on Tuesday, February 23. Stay safe! And we appreciate your patience and understanding at this time. “

Classes will be held as usual this week at Riverdale Academy.  The school posted:  We are excited to report that we are able to have school tomorrow! Both the RA bus and the shuttle will run their regularly scheduled routes. We are looking forward to seeing all of our Rebels!

And Magnolia Bend Academy posted, “We will be meeting for classes tomorrow, Monday, February 22, 2021.”

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It was the first round of the girls basketball playoffs.  Red River’s game with D’Arbonne Woods Charter had been delayed from Thursday due to the winter storm.  So when they collided at the Dawg Pound Sunday afternoon, the Lady Bulldogs were ready.

They came out fast and tight from the opening tip-off.  Red River was in control all the way.  Final score Red River 74 and D’Arbonne Woods 38.

Leading scorers for the Lady Bulldogs were Kaitlyn Antilley with 23 and Jaedyn French-Solton with 22.  Other contributors were Elizabeth Hughes with 11, Jariyah Hamilton with 7, Erica Babers with 6, and Cierra Smith with 2.  Off the bench, Nakerra Jones contributed 2 and Lyrika Miller 1.

They face a short turn-around and have to face number 3 seed Lake Arthur way down in bayou country Monday night.  It’s a long trip and Lake Arthur is very strong this year.  The ladies will have to be on their “A” game.

Right after the game the Lady Bulldogs headed for home and some well-earned rest.  Sleep fast tonight and get up charging hard tomorrow.

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Area water systems are restarting service.  And they are finding leaks and burst pipes.  As your water service returns please remember to observe a boil advisory that is being issued by all systems.

The Town of Coushatta remains mostly without service, however there are scattered reports that the water is on.  On Sunday Mayor Cox told The Journal that he was told by his work crews that the aquifer had frozen.  Earlier the mayor said that there had been no leaks or broken pipes found.

The Social Springs Water System posted Saturday:  Wells are being shut down, will be back on between 9-9:30 in the morning (Sunday) and will run as long as they can keep up with the demand. North tank drained and South tank within a couple feet, this may be the routine for a few days.

When meters are read and a customer’s meter is found running due to a leak, the meter will be locked out until leak is fixed.

Christy Suggs of Hickory Grove Water System posted Sunday night that they are back up and running.  Hickory Grove is completely turned on. We are trying it as long as possible. Please check your lines for leaks. Please Do not use washers or dishwashers until we can build more water in the tank. If you must wash do it sparingly. Under boil advisory until further notice.

If you do not have water please let a board member know.

Check back.  The Journal will update this story as more information becomes available.

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Bank of Coushatta locations will be back to regular business hours beginning tomorrow Monday, February 22, 2021!!! Due to water outages in Coushatta, Louisiana the Coushatta location will temporarily be Drive Thru only. Full services are still available! If you need further assistance please contact us for an appointment to come into the Bank.

Librarian Trey Lewis said the Library may be closed Monday, depending upon restoration of water service.

Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne is announcing that state offices will be closed Monday, February 22, in the following seven northwest Louisiana parishes due to continuing water pressure problems caused by the severe winter weather experienced in the area: Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Claiborne, DeSoto, Red River and Webster.

All agency heads are responsible for determining those essential personnel who should remain on duty, report for duty or those who should report to alternate work sites as necessary. 

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