Randall Dothan Sledge
December 21, 1924 — April 17, 2024
Service: Friday, April 26, 2024 at 11am at Clear Springs Cemetery – Martin
Gwendolyn Irene Barbo
July 15, 1947 — April 23, 2024
A memorial service day and time pending
Matt Vines
WINNFIELD – The Red River High boys and girls track teams each finished fifth in the District 3-2A championships at Winnfield High School.
The girls put four individual sprinters on the podium while the boys were carried by the strength of their relays.
Three Red River girls sprinters took second place in their respective events.
Adrina Jackson clocked a 12.64 in the 100 meters, Kaleah Crawford posted a 1:06.54 in the 400, and Morgan Housley finished in 3:13.26 in the 800.
Aniyah Jones added a third-place finish in the 200, finishing in 27.24.
The girls 4×400 relay finished second (4:35.12) while the 4×100 claimed third (52.51).
On the boys side, three relays found the podium.
The 4×200 (1:33.44) and the 4×800 (10:19.49) finished in second place while the 4×100 placed third (44.53).
The top four individuals and top four relays advance to the regional championships this week as teams try to punch through to the state championships in individual events.
Red River High School
RRHS seniors and parents—Senior Yearbook dedication ads are due Thursday, April 25. Don’t miss the chance to let seniors know how proud you are of them. Contact the school with any questions.
Red River High School will host “Grand Cotillion: Black Tie Affair” on Saturday, May 11 from 7-10pm.
The prom will be held at Grand Bayou Resort. It is a night to celebrate the end of the academic year and make unforgettable memories with friends. Attire must meet dance dress code. For more information contact Miss Thomas, sponsor at RRHS at 318.932.4913.
Riverdale Academy
Riverdale Academy Senior Class Play “Million Dollar Meatballs” will take place in the school auditorium on Thursday, April 25 at 6pm. All family and friends are invited. Tickets are $10. All proceeds go towards end of year expenses for the Senior Class of 2024.
Join the Riverdale Academy Cheerleaders for a fun night of BINGO on May 3 at 6pm in the RA gym. All proceeds will go toward cheer camp and uniform fees. All prizes will be worth at least $50. Flatscreen TV for blackout winner! For questions or to purchase pre-sale deal books contact Cynthia Riggs 318.932.8699.
Area Schools
Castor High School FBLA will host BINGO Night Saturday, April 27 at 6pm in the new gym. The community is welcome to come play. Contact Brittney Lea for preorder information at Brittney.lea@bpsb.us. Concessions will be sold. 10 prize packages are on the line and kids’ bingo is also happening. All proceeds will support the high school and middle level FBLA national qualifiers and their trip to Orlando.
Local schools may submit events, activities, information about students, faculty/staff, etc. Any school wanting to share content can email to redriverparishjournal@gmail.com
I learned touch typing in the ninth grade. I still type reasonably fast.
I received a learner’s permit in the tenth grade and I still drive a car reasonably fast.
I don’t think about either while I am doing them. If you have been behind me in a car, perhaps
you have speculated about that.
Typing is habitual. I do it every day. Right now I am working on two sermons and two of these
articles. I hope I don’t get things crossed up.
Driving is habitual. I do that every day as well. I have noticed that my driving skills are not as
sharp as they once were. Part of that I blame on age. I don’t see as well at night as I once did. My
reflexes while still cat like, are like a slow fat Tom cat who has been eating inside food for years.
I type alone. No one stands over my shoulder and watches me type. I do face a weekly deadline
for my articles to be published. I can take as long as I wish to type an article provided that they arrive
before the aforementioned deadline. When I make a mistake typing, I hit the backspace or delete
button and the mistake is erased. Actually the page I am typing on now, doesn’t really exist. It is the
reproduction of a page and letters appearing on a computer monitor. Is it real? Is it something else?
When I drive, I’m sharing the road with other folks. For the most part, folks know how to handle
a vehicle. Some drive too slowly for me, but I’m learning to take my time and relax. It is part of giving up
“running.” I have reached the stage where walking is moving fast enough through life. The other thing
about drivers is distracted drivers. Yesterday on I-20 I was passed by a young person doing at least 90
mph. She was texting away as she blew past me. I prayed for her safety and the safety of her
passengers. I have noted that guys on the phone tend to drive slower than the posted speed limit. I
guess that proves that we are not able multi-taskers. I will note that mistakes while driving are costly
and dangerous.
I’m a faster typist than in my High School days. It is a skill that doesn’t seem to diminish with
age. I did the math yesterday and discovered that over my career I have typed over five million words.
My fingers want some time off. I have enjoyed most of what I have typed. There are a couple of letters
that stand out as exceptions. I hit send and I should have hit delete.
Over the same period, I have driven 935,000 miles. I don’t text and drive so I can’t count words
typed while driving. I drive just as fast as I always have. My right foot contains ample amounts of Pb.
Notice I didn’t count the number of speeding greetings I have received from various law enforcement
agencies.
I enjoy writing and driving. Writing is great mental exercise. When I drive, I get windshield time.
I have time alone to ponder and consider. I have time to pray and listen to God. Although I’m not as good a driver as I once was, I still enjoy it. I’m looking forward to one of those self-driving cars so I can
look at flora and fauna while I “drive.” I can also finally type in a moving car!
We are Easter people. We live on this side of the empty tomb.
Writing and driving are just two things I enjoy doing. Easter promises that the enjoyment of life
continues eternally. Someone said that heaven is like an everlasting worship service. NOT! Heaven is
living. It is living without fear, sickness, pain, disappointment, guilt and sin. Resurrection life is really
living! Easter is our promise that in Christ we will have that kind of life.
I have typed enough words for this article.
Louisiana Christian University announces the students who earned placement on the Dean’s and President’s List for the fall 2023 semester.
The students were recognized in a ceremony on Tuesday, April 16, in which they were able to recognize their parents, along with faculty and staff who had supported them in their academic pursuits. The Dean’s/President’s List ceremony is an annual event at LCU.
The Dean’s List includes students who have earned a minimum of 12 hours in the designated semester with a minimum grade point average of 3.5 and no grade below a “C.”
Names are listed below with hometowns :
Zoi Akrivaki Thessaloniki, Greece
Adrian Navarro Alicante, Spain
Ja’Kaylib Anderson Lafayette
Kaitlyn Antilley Coushatta
Payton Arcement Katy, Texas
Alex Archield Deridder
Micah Ardizzone Lake Charles
Case Ardoin Washington
Grace Artigue Opelousas
Jett Aube Duson
Ayanna Baker Alexandria
Chloe Batterton West Monroe
Parker Batterton Choudrant
Aralee Beene Saint Amant
Landon Beier Lake Charles
Dylan Beier Lake Charles
Na’Kailah Benson Marksville
Logan Bertucci Metairie
Jackson Bieber Dry Prong
Jada Brown Spring, Texas
Nicholas Brunet Bourg
Lauren Bryant Deville
Joe Campanale Oak Grove
Annemarie Campbell Patterson
Sarahlee Carhee Leesville
Lydia Castille Carencro
Tanit Cevada Cruz Ciuded de Mexico
Tyrone Charlot Eunice
Blake Chauvin Belle Chasse
Joseph Chenevert Ball
Kayla Condrey Rayville
Gavin Corzine Crowley
Benjamin Cox Broussard
Taevion Cunningham Deridder
Madison Danley Baytown, Texas
Tyler Darbonne Eunice
Christian Desselle Ball
Jolie Dore Lake Charles
Ethan Dousay Pineville
Allen Dugas Luling
Madelyn Duncan Alexandria
Aven Elliott Alexandria
Samuel Feaster Minden
Braydon Flores Marksville
Toriance Fontenot Mamou
Morgan Ford McKinleyville, Calif.
Blake Francis Rayne
Joao Pedro Franco Menifee, Brazil
Fischer Gaudet Lafayette
Windy Greene Opelousas
Chandler Gronski Leesville
Samuel Hair Sulphur
Cid Holman Oak Grove
Isabella Houck Leesville
Matthew Houghtby Natchitoches
Lexi Hubbard Baton Rouge
Lindsey Jacobs Belgium
Marlon Jones Lafayette
Barrett Keene Jena
Layton Kerby Coushatta
Carley Koch River Ridge
Ethan Kovatch Lafayette
Allie Kyle DeRidder
Elizabeth LaBiche Pineville
Brit Lay Destrehan
Andrew Loewer Lake Charles
Caroline Lucius Pineville
Sladen Lyles Springfield
Maryane Mafra Brazil
Alexis Magee Mt. Hermon
Mari Manning Youngsville
Harlee Marcotte St.Landry
Breland Martin Winnfield
Samantha McCollough Oakdale
Jonquarius Mcghee Opelousas
Elisabeth McGrath Westlake
Zaibriana McLaren Montgomery
Zachary Meissner Alexandria
Jai Melancon Bourg
Duarte Mendes Portugal
Jacob Mercer Dry Prong
Laura Miller Church Point
Michael Monier Ville Platte
Emma Monnet Yzeure, France
Nathan Mudd Woodville, Mississippi
Ekepata Obenofunde Alexandria
Michael O’Brien Carmel, Indiana
Megan O’Neal Fred, Texas
Will Patton Bossier City
Emily Paul Pineville
Fabian Perez Soto Costa Rica
A’melia Perkins Pineville
Dylan Pierce Colfax
Memphis Powell Pineville
Eva Prescott Converse
Juan Ramirez Bogota, Colombia
Hali Reeves Winnsboro
Christian Rider Denham Springs
Hannah Robinson Oakdale
Raquel Rodrigues Portugal
Kasey Russell Centerpoint
Emily Sanders Alexandria
Christian Sasser Alexandria
Corban Sasser Alexandria
Taylor Shanas Monroe
Journi Singleton Sulphur
Jessica Smith Houston, Texas
Camille Soileau Ville Platte
Reagan Sonnier Lake Charles
Naya Soto Chino, California
Braydan Spedale Denham Springs
Katharine Spell Arlington, Texas
Joshua Stowell Shreveport
Hailey Tillson Marksville
Nastasia Turnbough Mobile, Alabama
Emma Walker Ball
Taylor Walker Great Britain
Cayden Walls Greenwell Springs
Shakeem Walters Great Britain
Victoria Watson New Iberia
Isabella Watts Pineville
Harrison Waxley Bossier City
Sami Welch Ville Platte
Madison Weldon Florien
Trace Williams Belle Chasse
Gretchen Wolfe Rowlett, Texas
Jaycee Woods Mount Pleasant, Texas
Thomas Yates Jonesville
Mckenzie Young Bossier
The following students have earned placement on the President’s List for the fall 2023 semester. The President’s List includes students who have earned a minimum of 12 hours in the designated semester with a 4.0 minimum grade point average.
Names are listed below with hometowns:
Laura Aime Baton Rouge
Pedro Alejandro Rivera San Juan, Puerto Rico
Isabella Andrews Midvale, Utah
Alejandro Aranda Molina Pineville
Anthony Ardoin Washington
Isabel Armand Washington
Riley Armstrong Eunice
Zachary Bacilla Opelousas
Billi Barber Slidell
Ethan Barnes Ball
Sarah Becker Springtown,Texas
Cheyenne Blake West Monroe
Rebekah Bonnin Lufkin, Texas
Julie Bordeau League City, Texas
Kaden Boulet Lafayette
Miah Broussard Kaplan
Charles Brown Deridder
Jace Buller Lake Charles
Lilyane Calhoun Hornbeck
Kate Campbell Denham Springs
Lillyanna Castille Carencro
Alexandra Cedeno Caracas, Venezuela
Henry Chappell Mount Pleasant, Texas
Ethan Christman Pineville
Lena Cogghe Belgium
Gabrielle Colson New Iberia
Clayton Crow Zwolle
Claire Cullen Livingston
Allison Deiter Monroe
Olivia Dixon Cottonport
William Dunham Monroe
Ana Elliott Alexandria
Gideon Elsayed Moreauville
Georgia Fannin Pineville
Diego Fernandes Brazil
Cy Fontenot Pineville
Cade Fookes Alexandria
Josiah Freeman Alexandria
Trinity Fulkerson DeFuniak Springs, Fla.
Mary Gardner Elmer
Skyler Garza Stonewall
McKenna Gehr Loxley, Alabama
Collin Girouard Youngsville
Tarik Gomes Brazil
Sydni Gross Lambertville, Mich.
Clara Hall Pineville
Jade Harmon Lafayette
Skylar Hawley Ferriday
Anna Hooker Boyce
Aubrey Houghtby Natchitoches
DaKayla Howard Monroe
Aevin Howard West Monroe
Nicholas Huber Lafayette
Olivia Huffman Pineville
Emma Hunt Denham Springs
Abby Johnson Bastrop
Abigail Johnson Jonesville
Tess Kelder Pineville
Julia Keller Metairie
Jensan Kervin Alexandria
Emalea Kingston Boyce
Myah Koonce Jennings
Giselle Laing Bahamas
Ethan Lanford Pineville
Leanna Lanford Pineville
Kelsey Layssard Pineville
Caroline LeBlanc West Monroe
Kyle LeJeune Leesville
Keirsten LeJeune Leesville
Phoebe Lim Baton Rouge
Kade Linn New Iberia
Dongning Liu Pineville
Thiago Lopes Brazil
Jesci Lord Bastrop
Shelbi Lovejoy Oakdale
Maritsa Lowe Olla
Lexie Marks Rayne
Isabella McClendon West Monroe
Meredith Midkiff Sulphur
Hannah Miller Iowa
Spencer Murdock Pollock
Chloe Must Lafayette
Anna Myers Winnsboro
Ainslee Newell Bastrop
Bethany Nichols Boyce
Maebyn Orillion Opelousas
Lucas Pedroso de Lima Brazil
Alana Pohlman Monroe
Joshua Poole Hattiesburg, Miss.
Andrew Quartemont Bentley
Lindi Rachal Baton Rouge
Josiah Reed Vidalia
Kaelyn Richard Church Point
Aiora Rivas Ibiza, Spain
Brooke Ross Oak Grove
Brianne Rotolo Bridge City
James Sanders Trout
Olivia Scott Lafayette
Stella Shaw Porter, Texas
Benjamin Shields Deville
Emily Slay Pineville
Gracie Sonnier Jennings
Zoe Stevenson Boyce
Kai Stone Maurice
Mackenzie Strickland West Monroe
Misty Tanner Shreveport
Allison Tarver Pineville
Jana Taylor Satsuma, Alabama
Macy Taylor Jonesville
Abigail Thomas Columbia
Julia Thompson Lafayette
Ella Tibbs Trout
Holly Tony Haughton
Morgan Tradewell Deville
Kylee VanHoof Pineville
Eva Villamor Ville Platte
Hailey Vitrano Meraux
Gavin Vordick Schriever
Dylan Wells Greenwell Springs
Kamryn West Ville Platte
Abigail Wheeler Shreveport
Daniel Wilkerson Bastrop
Colton Williams Oak Ridge
Mackenzie Willis Pitkin
“We rejoice in the academic achievements of our students,” said Acting President Dr. David Jeffreys. “And we appreciate the students who recognize their parents’ contributions to their success, as well as the gratitude they give the LCU faculty and staff.”
NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State engineered some more late-game heroics on Tuesday night with seven runs in its final two at-bats to pick up an 8-6 comeback win against Louisiana Tech.
Down 4-1 entering the bottom of the fifth inning, a pinch-hit two-run home run from Kennedy Reynolds lit the comeback flame as the Demons (17-27) scored seven straight runs, finding a way to the big win on a night filled with gutsy performances.
Runs in each of the first three inning from Louisiana Tech (27-17), including unearned runs for the first two of the game, staked the Bulldogs to a 4-1 lead through three innings of play. NSU manufactured their run on a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the first to briefly tie the game at one before Tech pushed three straight across over the next two innings.
On a night with a squeezed strike zone and multiple arms making their way to the circle for both teams, the Bulldogs seemed fully in control after 12 straight batters were retired by Tech pitching between Laney Roos’ sacrifice fly in the first and the fifth inning.
Starter Maggie Darr pitched the first two innings, seeing a pair of unearned runs come across before handing over the Kenzie Seely, who danced around some traffic on the basepaths after a pair of runs scored in the third. She kept the Tech offense off the board however through the fifth inning, giving the offense a chance to stage the comeback.
“The zone felt a little tight tonight and we were having to throw a lot of pitches,” Prejean said. “She (Seely) made the pitches that she needed to make when it counted with runners on.”
Seely was responsible for stranding seven of the 11 total runners Tech left on base in the game.
Camryn Ford’s single in the fifth was the first base runner for NSU since the first inning and she didn’t stay on the bases long as Reynolds launched the first pitch she saw down the left field line for the first pinch-hit home run for an NSU player since 2020.
Initially ruled foul by the home plate umpire, a swift review overturned the call and officially began the NSU comeback.
“I just wanted to get a pitch that I could hit well,” Reynolds said. “Coach just said to be on time and get your pitch so that’s really all I was thinking. I knew it was out but was just really hoping that it wasn’t foul. So I was trying not to look at it and just trying to will it fair.”
Ryleigh Denton took over in the circle in the sixth and produced the first three-up, three-down inning for the defense, getting the Demons right back to the plate.
Back-to-back one-out singles from Roos and Ashlyn Walker put the go-ahead run on base in the inning. The Demons used the same hit type they did to produce the comeback win on Saturday against Texas A&M-Commerce again on Tuesday.
Mia Liscano’s double to left center brought in the tying and go-ahead run giving the Demons their first lead of the day. Liscano advanced to third on the play and scored three pitches later on an error at short stop.
Reynolds and Sophia Livers drew back-to-back walks, the only two walks of the game for Tech pitching, to load the bases with still only one out. A bouncing ball up the right side from Bailie Ragsdale slipped past the second baseman, and after a wild throw, allowed two more runs to score and give the Demons the 8-4 lead.
One more Demon error in the seventh allowed two more unearned runs to cross the plate and bring the tying run to the batter’s box, but a ground ball to second, reminiscent of the two the Bulldogs hit in their walk-off win against the Demons a month ago, was picked up for the final out.
“That’s a good Louisiana Tech team that we beat,” Prejean said. “We didn’t have our best stuff in the circle and we didn’t have our best defensive performance but we found a way to do it. Now it’s getting on a roll and leaving it all on the field over these next two weekends.”
The Demons had eight hits in the game from eight different players and scored eight runs from eight different players.
There are plenty of folks who include the outdoors as a part of their lives. They hunt; they fish; they hike but their nine-to-five jobs occupy the majority of their time.
For a handful of others, the outdoors is basically their life; they’re consumed with the woods and waters. That’s why this select group can’t wait to wake up every morning and go to their job in some form of make their living in outdoor industries. John Brown is just such a fellow.
For the 57 year old Brown, it started some 30-odd years ago when he teamed up with fellow Ruston High School graduate, Rex Moncrief to plan, film produce and star in an outdoor television show, “The Outdoor News”, which ran for a few years on area TV stations.
Wanting more exposure to the outdoors, Brown had become adept at handling video equipment and he began doing free-lance video works for such outdoors-related companies as Knight and Hale, Primos, Mossy Oak. His work caught the attention of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and for near 30 years, Brown worked with that organization eventually becoming executive producer of their television and video work.
Aside from his involvement with the outdoors, Brown developed an interest in coaching youth baseball. While living in Edgefield, SC, headquarters of the NWTF, he coached youngsters and in 2019, his team of 12 year olds won the national championship. Interestingly, the tourney was held in Ruston.
“I came to Ruston for the tournament and it was like a homecoming to me. I wanted to plant myself back here in north Louisiana where I was raised. I told my boss at the NWTF I wanted to take an early retirement so I could move back home,” said Brown.
After retiring, Brown and his wife, a retired school teacher, live in the country outside W. Monroe. Has he retired from his outdoors ventures? That’s not in Brown’s DNA. He writes features for LA Sportsman magazine and has taken a consuming interest in 51 acres of land in Caldwell Parish his dad had purchased before he passed away last year. Brown is converting the property his dad left him to a mecca for wildlife.
“When I first walked over the property, it was so thick and overgrown you could hardly pick your way through it. There was no way you could think about finding a turkey track. For the past year and a half I have worked on the land, clearing brush and establishing food plots. Last week,” said Brown, “I called up two longbeard gobblers, a hen and six jakes at one time.
“I have rededicated myself to telling the conservation story that no matter if a piece of property is large or small, if you work on the habitat, wildlife will react and find it.”
Brown’s next project, which will reach fruition on April 30, is his book, “Gathering Light’, which will be released on that date.
“Before he passed away, my dad had encouraged me to write down what I had done in stories I could pass down as a legacy to my kids and grandchildren. I finally did it. The book tells about my growing up in Franklin Parish on the Tensas River as well as my outdoors-related work down through the years,” he said.
The hard cover book as well as in E-book form will be available starting April 30. Search for it on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.
This book will appeal to not only outdoorsmen and women but with John Brown’s God given ability to tell a story, it’s a book anyone will enjoy reading.
Partners and Donors are invited to celebrate fundraising success in 2023
CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System thanks Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals sponsors and donors for their fundraising efforts throughout 2023 which totaled $550,000.
CMN Hospital partners will be honored at a Mega Party on Thursday, April 25 at 8 a.m. at the hospital. Funds raised in 2023 will be allocated toward enhancing specialized equipment to help infants, children, and families at CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System.
The 2024 fundraising season will also be launched with partners from Ace Hardware, Albertsons, CEFCO, Credit Unions for Kids, Dairy Queen, GameStop, JOANN, Log a Load, Love’s Travel Stops, Ollie’s, Panda Express, Phi Mu, Re/Max, Valvoline Oil Change and Walmart-Sam’s Clubs.
Patients and families will share about how funds helped them when they were hospitalized.
Location:
CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center
1453 E. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop
West Wing Conference Room
Parking is available behind the West Wing
Baseball fans in north Louisiana whose dads and granddads were raised on the radio sounds of KMOX and St. Louis Cardinals baseball remember Whitey Herzog, who led the Cardinals to a World Series title (1982) and two other World Series appearances (1985 and 1987) in his 10 years as the team’s colorful manager.
The prematurely white-haired Herzog passed away last week at 92, one of the last “characters” of the old-school game.
A tip of the ballcap to Whitey, the architect of one of the great nights of my otherwise feeble life.
It was a July Tuesday in Busch Stadium in 1986, and the San Francisco Giants were in town and so was I, writing stories on some former Shreveport Captains who were now Giants. The Cards were defending world champions but were struggling through a .500 summer, a team built offensively on speed while the Giants were an offense built on power.
St. Louis would sweep the series but it’s that Tuesday game that was the one to remember. The Cards led 10-2 in the fourth.
In the bottom of the fifth, they stole a base.
It’s sort of an unwritten rule that you don’t steal with a big lead. Roger Craig, the Giants manager, knew this and seemed to take it personally when San Francisco reliever Juan Berenguer (blast from the past, right?) came into the game and threw at the first hitter he saw; it was the only batter he faced.
This brought Herzog out of the Cardinals dugout to protest to the home plate umpire and, a scenario you don’t see often, Craig came out of the Giants dugout and joined the conversation. The last time you’ve seen both managers yelling at the home plate umpire at the same time is … when? Only time I’ve ever seen it.
Neither manager, as it turned out, was yelling at the umpire. They were yelling at each other. Fairly quickly they were nose to nose. Fingers jabbing. Spit flying. Then the dugouts emptied, and it were as if Herzog and Craig were each a point on opposing spears, with each team forming an arrow behind their guy.
Heated down there on the Busch Stadium turf, sure, but beautiful from where I sat in the press box, listening to 23,000-plus yelling in favor of Whitey “The White Rat” Herzog.
You knew what the argument was about, and after the game, Herzog explained it to me and other writers, his sock feet on his desk in his office underneath the stadium, leaned back in his swivel chair, a can of beer in his left hand. (A former player, Herzog batted, threw, and drank lefty.)
“Does Roger think he invented the game?” Herzog was saying. “I told him if he promised not to hit any three-run homers, I’d promise we wouldn’t try to steal any more bases. We can’t score the same way he can.”
Some other names from that weekend: Chris Brown, Robby Thompson, Jeffrey Leonard, Chili Davis, Mike LaValliere, Willie McGee, Vince Coleman, Tom Herr, Terry Pendleton. Steve Carlton actually hit a three-run homer in the Monday night opener, the only runs his team scored in an 8-3 loss. Only time I ever saw him pitch live — or hit a home run live. Hit it good too; slapped it off one of those columns in right in old Busch.
Good times.
But the most beautiful part of the whole thing was after the game and Herzog explaining, with a big smile, his side of the argument. His beltless baseball pants unbuttoned to allow that 56-inches-or-so of waist a little freedom. And him holding that can of beer. Of course, in Busch Stadium it was a Busch beer. A freebie.
The funny part was it was a Busch Light.
Whitey, always looking for an edge.
Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu
Clara Springs Camp will host Fourth Friday Fish Fry April 26 from 5-7pm. Hosted by Grand Cane Baptist. It is Foster Ministry Awareness Month. Everyone is asked to bring socks/underware donations for boys and girls sizes 2T-14 to give to Foster Care Closets. Foster families will eat FREE. Dinner is $15 and includes all you can eat fried fish, coleslaw, french fries, hushpuppies, pinto beans, lemon bread pudding, homemade ice cream and drinks. Kids 9 and under eat FREE. Only $10 for kids ages 10-17.
St. James Church of God in Christ, in Powhatan, will celebrate the Anniversary of Pastor and First Lady Brandon and Kristen Jackson on Sunday, May 5 at 3pm. Guest speaker will be Pastor Joey Miller of Victorious Life Ministries of Coushatta.
The Southern Plainsmen Quartet will be in concert at the Ashland Baptist Church Sunday, May 5 at 6pm.
Woman Church will be held May 7 from 6-8pm at The Shop, 1942 Hwy 507. Worship leaders for the night are Maura Dupree and Kaitlyn Beard and the speaker is Kat Arnold. Dinner will be provided. Bring your Bible and a friend.
Interested in learning more about using that air fryer you still have in a box? Red River Parish Helping Hands will host an instructional presentation at the Jack & Laura Center May 9 at 1pm.
Hazel Cannon Bamburg
February 2, 1924 — April 18, 2024
Service: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 2pm at Martin Baptist Church – Martin
Tommy L Gray
December 1, 1974 — April 19, 2024
Service: Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 1pm at Ringgold First Baptist Church
Randall Dothan Sledge
December 21, 1924 — April 17, 2024
Service: Friday, April 26, 2024 at 11am at Clear Springs Cemetery – Martin
At 12:40 P.M. today, the Desoto Parish Sheriff’s Office announced that both lanes of Interstate 49 are closed at the Frierson exit. A large truck has lost its load. The load is not considered hazardous, though cleanup will take some time. All travelers are encouraged to avoid the area and seek a detour.
Roman Collins competed Sunday night for a spot on the top 12 of American Idol. His rendition of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s “You’re All I Need to Get By” was another powerful example of taking a classic song and making it a soulful praise moment. Katy Perry praised him as her favorite singer.
Tonight, Monday, Apr 22, 2024, will be the next opportunity to hear Roman and vote for him. There are three ways to vote: text 21 to 21523, download the American Idol App, or go to the website. Each method allows ten votes per person.
Band together, Coushatta, and help vote Roman into next week.
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty
COOPER, AUSTIN
18 W M 4/14/2024 4/14/2024
CRIMINAL TRESPASS O.R. BOND
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
TURNER, JACOB
22 W M 4/14/2024 4/14/2024
CRIMINAL TRESPASS O.R. BOND
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
NELSON, CHRISTOPHER
37 B M 4/15/2024 4/16/2024
SECOND DEGREE BATTERY $10,000.00
ARRESTING AGENCY: COUSHATTA POLICE DEPARTMENT
MILLER, JESSIE
48 B M 4/15/2024 INCARCERATED
ENTRY ON OR REMAINING ON LAND OR IN PLACE WHERE FORBIDDEN $1,000.00
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
HEATON, ROBERT
28 W M 4/15/2024 INCARCERATED
THEFT OF A MOTOR VEHICLE $15,000.00 (CONCURRENT)
SIMPLE BURGLARY (2 COUNTS) $15,000.00 (CONCURRENT)
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
ANTWINE, JEFFERY
39 B M 4/16/2024 4/17/2024
FAILURE TO APPEAR – CRIMINAL TRIALS $3,000.00 (CONCURRENT)
FAILURE TO APPEAR – CRIMINAL TRIALS $3,000.00 (CONCURRENT)
OUT OF PARISH FUGITIVE WARRANT – NATCHITOCHES PARISH
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
HICKS, AMANDA
45 W F 4/16/2024 4/18/2024
HEADLAMPS ON MOTOR VEHICLES $1,000.00 (CONCURRENT)
POSSESSION OF SCHEDULE II CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE $5,000.00 (CONCURRENT)
POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA $1,000.00 (CONCURRENT)
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
JOHNSON, QUESHAWN
39 B M 4/16/2024 4/17/2024
FAILURE TO APPEAR – TRAFFIC FINES & COSTS $476.00 OR 45 DAYS IN JAIL
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Castor – On Friday, April 19, 2024, shortly after 11:30 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop G began investigating a single-vehicle fatality crash on LA Hwy 507 just west of Castor. This crash claimed the life of 49-year-old Tommy Gray.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche, driven by Gray, was traveling south on LA Hwy 507. For reasons still under investigation, the Avalanche exited the roadway to the right and overturned.
As a result of this crash, Gray, who was unrestrained, was ejected from the vehicle and suffered fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Bienville Parish Coroner’s Office. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Buckling up is the most effective way to protect yourself while driving or riding in a vehicle. It can reduce the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a crash, and it only takes seconds to do so. Always remember to buckle up before starting your journey, no matter how short the trip may be.
In 2024, Troop G has investigated six fatal crashes, resulting in seven deaths.
HEADQUARTERS NEWS RELEASE
April 21, 2024
Baton Rouge – This afternoon, 63 men and women arrived at the Louisiana State Police Training Academy to begin their training before earning the right to call themselves Louisiana State Troopers. Each Cadet brings their individual life experiences with them, culminating together into Cadet Class 104. As others before it, this class will add to the rich State Police history dating back to 1922 with the establishment of the Louisiana Highway Commission consisting of 16 motorcycle patrol officers. In 1936, separate divisions of statewide law enforcement combined to form a modern, well equipped, and well trained force known today as the Louisiana State Police.
During their 24 weeks at the Academy, Cadets will receive classroom instruction as well as the practical application of lessons learned in numerous areas such as defensive tactics, advanced firearms, emergency vehicle operations, civil unrest, ethics, fair and impartial policing, use of force and de-escalation, and impaired driving detection. Additionally, Cadets will participate in a community service project, allowing them to engage with those they will ultimately serve. Upon completion of the Academy, graduating Troopers will participate in a 16 week field training program where they will apply lessons learned in the Academy while receiving instruction from highly trained Troopers across the State of Louisiana.
Cadet Class 105 is anticipated to begin in the fall of 2024. Look for more information on our social media platforms. Louisiana State Police remains dedicated to recruiting the best men and women from across the state and nation. To learn more about how you can become a Louisiana State Trooper, visit https://lsp.org/recruitment/ where you can find information on the recruiting and training process. There you can also obtain information on our benefits, qualifications, and most frequently asked questions. To speak with a LSP recruiter, email the recruiting section at LSPRecruiting@la.gov. For those applicants seeking immediate employment opportunities, positions are available within the Louisiana Department of Public Safety Police through the Louisiana State Civil Service System. For more information on DPS Police visit https://lsp.org/about/leadershipsections/support/dps-police/. To apply for a career with DPS visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/louisiana.
Contact Information:
Trooper Shelby Mayfield
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop A
Phone: (225) 921-1384
shelby.mayfield@la.gov
58th Annual Banquet Celebrates Louisiana’s Most Prestigious Conservation Awards
BATON ROUGE – Louisiana Wildlife Federation (LWF) has recognized seven individuals and one organization for their significant achievements in natural resources conservation and education. The recipients were recognized as part of the 58th Conservation Achievement Awards Banquet, held in Baton Rouge on Friday, April 12.
The 2023 conservation recipients include:
Alexander Kolker, PhD. of New Orleans was named Conservationist of the Year. Dr. Kolker’s work has been instrumental in helping us understand the natural processes and the human causes of Louisiana’s coastal land loss. He recently led the charge for collecting data to better understand the continuing evolution of Neptune Pass in the lower Mississippi River, just one of his many contributions to Louisiana’s coastal restoration efforts.
Corey Miller of New Orleans was named the Professional Conservationist of the Year. Miller has been a dedicated advocate for coastal communities in Louisiana, particularly in the fishing industry. He is currently serving as the Community Engagement Director for the Pontchartrain Conservancy where he oversees the new Canal Lighthouse, education, policy, and outreach.
Jim Kolinski of Monroe was recognized as the Volunteer Conservationist of the Year for his work with Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Kolinsky serves as animal caretaker, educator, carpenter, and staff member. He has been credited with single-handedly keeping the Education Center open to the public.
Amanda Clark and Pam Pearce of Natchitoches were named the Conservation Educators of the Year for their tireless effort to introduce the children of Natchitoches Parish to the joys of fishing. This dynamic duo leads the Natchitoches Parish 4-H club and founded the Fishing “Fin-atics” Club.
Rep. Joseph Orgeron, PhD of Thibodaux serves as the state representative for District 54 (Golden Meadow). For his dedicated service he received the Elected Official Conservationist of the Year award. Rep. Orgeron has been an advocate for innovative ways to fund future coastal restoration projects and actively engages on fisheries management issues.
Don Shoopman of New Iberia was tapped as Conservation Communicator of the Year. His commitment to keeping hunters, anglers, and concerned citizens informed about issues concerning Louisiana’s great outdoors has been vital to the Acadiana region. His focus on youth participation in outdoor activities has helped promote Louisiana as the Sportman’s Paradise to a new generation of enthusiasts.
AJ and Nona Trigg Hodges Foundation from Florien was recognized as the Conservation Organization of the Year for its continued dedication to promoting and conserving north Louisiana’s diverse longleaf pine forests. Through the establishment of the Louisiana Ecological Forestry Center or LEAF Center, and countless partnerships with conservation organizations, they have transformed 2,400 acres of land into a research and learning center.
Martin D. “Marty” Floyd of Cheneyville received the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award for his more than five decades of service to conservation causes and issues in Louisiana. Marty is that unique individual who embodies both a deep academic understanding of the issues facing Louisiana’s wildlife and the dedication to the practical implementation of scientific principles to correct those issues.
Rebecca Triche, Executive Director of the Louisiana Wildlife Federation, expressed her admiration for the awardees, stating, “It’s heartening to learn how these individuals and organizations have made outstanding contributions to conservation and education in our state.
Their dedication, passion, and innovative approaches leave a legacy of preserving Louisiana’s natural resources for future generations.”
These awards, represented by unique wildlife statuettes, were jointly presented by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation and the National Wildlife Federation.
We would also like to thank our generous sponsors for their help in making the 58th Conservation Achievement Awards Banquet special. They are:
Lamar; Land Trust for Louisiana; Southern Wild, LLC; Allyn and Cliff Dukes; Restore the Mississippi River Delta; Cenac Marine Services; Delacroix Corporation; Louisiana Lottery Corporation; Michel H. Claudet, LLC; Pontchartrain Conservancy; Rapides Wildlife Association; Robert and Norma Steward; and Toledo Bend Lake Association.
Established in 1940, Louisiana Wildlife Federation is a statewide nonprofit organization that represents 22 affiliate organizations and more than 10,000 members dedicated to the conservation of Louisiana’s wildlife and natural resources. Louisiana Wildlife Federation is an affiliate of National Wildlife Federation and together forms a powerful network for conservation locally and nationally.
Americans have suspected, probably since the early 1980s when the last real “just the facts” journalism existed at the national level, that there is an overriding liberal bias in national “media.” We have now, again, had that suspicion confirmed.
Publicly funded National Public Radio, better known as NPR (or “National Proletariat Radio” as it has been referred to for years due to its Leftist bent) has suspended veteran editor Uri Berliner after he detailed his employer’s “absence of viewpoint diversity.”
Berliner authored an expose in the Free Press that “criticized NPR’s coverage of Russiagate, the COVID lab leak theory, Hunter Biden’s scandalous laptop, embrace of the theory of systemic racism, and accused the organization of downplaying antisemitism following Oct. 7.” (Fox News, Brian Flood, April 16, 2024). The Berliner article further notes that “registration records in 2021 showed an astonishing disparity between Democrats and Republicans in the NPR newsroom” and also indicated an “open-minded spirit no longer exists” at NPR. (Id.)
In fact, Berliner’s research concluded that there are 87 Democrats and zero Republicans employed on the editorial staff at NPR’s Washington, D.C. office. This ideological uniformity and close mindedness of NPR’s Thought Police destroys viewpoint diversity and raises red flags about the network’s objectivity and evenly balanced viewpoint representation. Further, it exposes to the bright light of day the fraud at a taxpayer funded national radio station at which the flagship morning show is laughably entitled, ‘All Things Considered.’
In response, The Hill news publication wrote in an article entitled “NPR editor’s tell-all confirms what we already knew about the media,” that “Americans these days just don’t trust the news.” (The Hill, Roger Ream, 04/11/24). The Hill article pointedly asks:
“How did journalism get to this point? Many Americans feel the news today doesn’t treat both sides fairly. They think it reflects deep-seated liberal biases, puts its finger on the scale for progressive policies and looks down on those with traditional or conservative beliefs. They’re not wrong; Uri Berliner joins a growing list of journalists at mainstream publications … who have publicly lamented how the news has abandoned its journalistic values.” (Id.)
What is so concerning today is that most national “news” organizations appear far more interested in advancing Woke, progressive policies than they are in faithfully adhering to the time-honored values of journalism, including objective fact-gathering within a paradigm of fairness and balance.
The topics of media bias Berliner lists in his expose are all hugely significant—Russia Collusion, the COVID lab leak theory, Hunter Biden’s scandalous laptop, embrace of the theory of systemic racism and downplaying antisemitism following Oct. 7. However, I want to present one unassailable example of the gravity and damage this kind of dishonest leftist orthodoxy practiced by mainstream “media” can do.
The Hunter Biden laptop.
What exacerbates the media bias, dishonesty and complicity is the fact that polling reflects a full 16% of Biden voters would have changed their minds and not voted for Joe Biden for president had they known of the laptop and its contents, news regarding which was completely frozen out by national media and social media just prior to the election. In an election decided by 42,000 votes in Wisconsin, Arizona, and Georgia, without this subject matter and viewpoint discrimination the electoral college and the 2020 election would have swung to Trump.
Thomas Jefferson once wrote that if he had to choose between “newspapers without a government” or “a government without newspapers” he would not hesitate to choose the former. With great respect to Mr. Jefferson, he could not have imagined what attempts to pass as “news” these days. We do know and we should reject it and demand that so-called news organizations actually, genuinely gather information and disseminate it impartially.
Subject matter honesty and impartiality are especially vital at news organizations like NPR and PBS and other public news outlets that are funded by our tax dollars.
The ‘honesty and impartiality’ principle should also apply to the broadcast news outlets—NBC, ABC and CBS—which utilize U.S. broadcast airways that are owned by the public for, originally, the purpose of providing unbiased information to Americans that is ‘in the public interest.’
Even with Jefferson’s brilliance and foresight, he could have never anticipated the rise of the willful and agenda-driven corruption of public information engaged in by NPR, CBS, NBC, and ABC. Their licenses should all be revoked “in the public interest.”
Royal Alexander
The 27th annual Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival will be held in historic downtown Natchitoches on the riverbank of Cane River Lake, the festival will kick off Friday evening, May 10th with “Tribute to Legends Night”. Appearing first at 7:00 p.m. will be “Lone Star Skynrd”, the award nominated Lynyrd Skynrd tribute act from Texas which faithfully recreates the atmosphere and energy of Lynyrd Skynrd concerts. Closing out Friday at 9:00 p.m. will be “Rumours-ATL”, the award-winning Fleetwood Mac tribute band out of Atlanta, Georgia which is widely recognized as the ultimate Fleetwood Mac tribute with its note for note recreation of the Mac’s hit songs.
Craig Morgan and Chapel Hart are set to headline the Main Stage on Saturday, May 11th.
Craig Morgan has been a country hit maker for over a quarter century and during his award-winning career has had seventeen charting country hits including the number ones “That’s What I Love About Sunday” and “Redneck Yacht Club”. Morgan is known for his high energy performances and is also a huge supporter of the military and veterans causes. He currently serves in the U.S. Army Reserve.
Opening for Morgan is the super-hot Nashville group “Chapel Hart” who were finalists on the hit television show “America’s Got Talent” a few years ago and then emerged again on the show’s special “Fantasy League” series which aired just a few weeks ago.
Millions have seen them on TV, they are selling out venues nationwide performing their number one hit “You Can Have him, Jolene” and many others.
Preceding “Chapel Hart” will be regional favorites “Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs” who have been hailed as “Louisiana’s top show band” and are the only band to have appeared in all twenty-six previous festivals. They are making this a stop on their 30th anniversary “Over the Moon Tour” and promise some “special surprises” during their performance. The Moondogs performance is scheduled for 5:20 p.m. As always, they’ll deliver a high quality and high energy mix of rock and roll and R&B horn-driven favorites.
For more information and to purchase tickets, go to http://www.natchjazzfest.com.
There will be 20 bands in all performing on three stages, which will feature a wide variety of music, including country, rock ‘n’ roll, funk, soul, Gospel, Latin, Celtic, and yes, plenty of jazz and R&B. This is a family event, and as always, there will be plenty of great food and fun activities for the kids.
SHREVEPORT – School spirit was wafting through the air Friday as students, faculty and staff descended on the LSUS Mall for the annual Spring Fling fair.
The celebration had the usual sights, sounds and smells – from the spice of the boiled crawfish to the thumping bass of the DJ booth to the inflatables for students to test their mettle.
But this festival had a little extra oomph – LSUS is celebrating record-breaking enrollment of more than 10,000 students for the first time in the university’s nearly 60-year history.
Campus and community members lined up in the shape of “10K” in an aerial drone photo (10,214 spring enrollment to be exact).
“This accomplishment belongs to every single person here,” LSUS Chancellor Dr. Robert Smith said to a cheering crowd. “The faculty and staff do such a fantastic job in recruiting our students and engaging and retaining those students.
“We have staff that maintain this beautiful campus while our supporters in the legislature and the community make it possible for our student to remain in college financially. And of course there’s you the student – all 10,000 of you. It’s a team effort, and I want to thank every one of you for helping us to meet this accomplishment.”
LSUS’s milestone is a result of growth on all fronts – undergraduate and graduate enrollment with additional gains in face-to-face and dual enrollment categories.
A multitude of student organizations came out en masse to encourage both current students and future students attending the New Student Orientation to get involved.
Greek organizations flashed their letters, academic organizations vied for student attention and different LSUS colleges and programs had plenty of information (and swag) to share.
LSUS student athletes were a visible bunch decked out in their sport’s uniforms and were avid competitors in the inflatable obstacle course.
The festival even had a sweeter taste this year with “10K enrollment record” sugar cookies from Auxiliary Services.
LSUS’s growth comes at a time when the majority of universities around the state and across the nation reported declines in enrollment in a recruiting landscape in which there are 1.5 million fewer college students than prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We developed programs that our students want to take, and those programs are supportive of the workforce needs of this region,” Smith said. “But more than that, it’s the faculty and staff that are dedicated to facilitating the success for all of our students.”
NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University’s chapter of Alpha Lambda Delta, the national honor society for first year students, inducted 129 new members April 14 in a program designed to celebrate academic achievement and leadership potential for first-year students. The purpose of Alpha Lambda Delta is to encourage superior academic attainment among students in their first year in institutions of higher education, to promote intelligent living and a continued high standard of learning and to assist students in recognizing and developing meaningful goals for their unique roles in society.
In conjunction, induction ceremonies for Blue Key and Purple Jacket honor societies took place April 14 as the first events to commemorate Honors Week at NSU, a series of activities that promote engagement and pride for NSU students and the NSU community. Blue Key and Purple Jackets led Alpha Lambda Delta inductees in procession to symbolically bookend graduation ceremonies, when the honor societies lead the commencement procession.
Blue Key Honor Society recognizes students at institutions of higher education for balanced and all-around excellence in scholarship, leadership and service. Blue Key bases eligibility for membership on all-around leadership and integrity in student life, high scholastic achievement and service to others.
Purple Jackets, a women’s community service group and honor society, was the first honor society established at NSU. Applicants must be a junior or senior and have served as leaders in other campus organizations to be considered for membership. Purple Jackets are the official hostesses of NSU and members must demonstrate good scholarship, character, spirit of cooperation and. Unselfishness in serving NSU.
Alpha Lambda Delta will mark its centennial in May. The NSU chapter made a $500 donation to support the organization’s national scholarship program.
New members and their hometowns are as follows.
Abbeville – Caroline LeMaire
Alexandria – Aaniyah Hardwell, Malaiah Ledet, Devon Powell, Arminie Tanner
Arcadia – Lauryn Vernon
Atlanta – Cademon Larson
Barksdale AFB – Grace Kerney
Baton Rouge – Catherine Bigham, Mark Dugar
Benton – Niklaus Jordan, Emily McHugh, Lynsey Plunkett, Ella Robinson, Tyla Stewart
Bossier City – Melanie Aguilar Noyola, Sophia Livers, Madysen Morgan, Imani Moye
Broussard – Saige Trahan
Bunkie – Rushawna Morris
Cameron – Gabriella Marceaux
Carthage, Texas – Ace Hall
Charles Town, West Virginia – Zoe Suire
Church Point – Payton Cain, Jacia Charlot
Converse – Willa Gregston
Coushatta – Rozalyn Taylor
Dallas – Jorge Bravo Chaves
DeRidder – Jacob Mullican, Emma Williamson
Destrehan – Rebecca Scott
Dry Prong – Audrey Spears
Eunice – Kyra Davis
Ferriday – Madison White
Florien – Alexis Brooks
Glenmora – Katie Dupre
Gonzales – Owen Stutzman
Godley, Texas – Dylan Dunn-Peacock
Haughton – Chloe Dettrey, Elizabeth Hardy
Houma – Valerie Galliano
Jarreau – Emily LaGrone
Jennings – Margaret Martinez
Keithville – Kaci Green, Ashlynn McClain, Lauren Moushon
Kingwood, Texas – Jaime Perdue
Lafayette – Blake Fontenot, Alex Larent, Tao Ly, Caroline Nelson, Jailey Sylvester
Lake Charles – Kassie Piatt, Katherine Rion, Caroline Ritchie
LeCompte – Lanai Miller
Leesville – James Bradley Bell, Kaitlin Callier, Kylie Fleshman, Camryn Huff, Layla Mouton, Allyce Richards
Lena – Emily Waits
Logansport – Jasmine Odom
Mansfield – Shaniyah Blaze
Many – Geert Kor IV, Masen Starks, Olivia Williams
Mamou – Karmen Laurant
Mansfield – Valentina Puac
Mansura – Emma Miller
Maurice – Brooklyn Orr
Meraux – Abigail Coker
Monroe – Shemaiah Thornton
Natchitoches – Eli Dyjack, Joshua Nolley, Destiny Phillips, Timothy Pursell, Kylee Williams
New Iberia – Addison Camors, Brianna Le
New Llano – Alexis Blalock
New Orleans – Valerie Hallot
New Roads – Gracie Gunter
Oak Ridge – Lalaina Wood
Opelousas – Jasmine Barnaba, Abigayle Guillory, Tasia Hayes, Marissa Howard, Daijah Murphy
Pierre Part – Hayden Alberes
Pineville – Alyssa Austin, Jillian Gresham, Emily Hamilton, Ashlyn Saucier, Karly Stansell
Ponchatoula – Silas Falgout
Provencal – Jesse Foshee
Raceland – Jordan Barnes
Rayville – Nicole Miller
Ruston – Faith Miller
Schriever – Ellie Dufrene
Shreveport – Sharye Belcher, Anastasia Douglas, KaBreyha Harris, Julia Jenkins, Christian Meiki
Slidell – Khali Sylvester
Sondheimer – Cailen Wiltcher
Springfield – Kailee Tartamella
Stonewall – Eloise Boudreaux, Natalie Cobb, Kalea Harris, Brianna Jacobsen, Breanna Murphy, Elana Sepulvado, Braedon Theodos
Sulphur – Gracie Ancelet, Grace Culpepper
Thibodaux – Corinne Boudreaux,
Valrico, Florida – Emily Gundin
Ville Platte – Samuel Marcantel
Westwego – Asatiari Moore
Winnfield – Makenna Cates, Kiara Mchenry, Ella Price
Woodworth — Caroline Blanchard
Youngsville – Ella Dupuie
Dr. Christopher Lyles, director of NSU’s School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, provided the keynote address and was inducted into Alpha Lambda Delta as an honorary member.
The chapter presented two NSU Alpha Lambda Delta First-Generation Dues Scholarships to Jasmine Barnaba of Opelousas and Jasia Charlot of Church Point.
Chapter Advisor Reatha Cox installed new officers. They are Abigail Coker of Meraux, president; Emily LaGrone of Jarreau, vice president; Ellie Hardy of Haughton, secretary; Tyler Melna of West Monroe, treasurer and junior advisor; Jasmine Barnaba of Opelousas, service and philanthropy chair; Olivia Williams of Many, faculty/staff liaison; Alexis Blalock of New Llano, scholarship chair, and Cailen Wiltcher of Sondheimer, historian. Junior advisors are Madison Cook of Vivian, Christopher Richard of Abbeville and Kacy Young of Shreveport.
NSU’s Army ROTC’s 74th Demon Battalion presented colors for the ceremony with Cadet Jacob Mullican, an ALD inductee, leading the Pledge of Allegiance and members of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia sang the National Anthem.
Northwestern State University’s Alpha Lambda Delta chapter has consistently achieved recognition from the national organization.
Kacy Young of Shreveport was recognized as recipient of a Jo Anne J. Trow Scholarship, awarded by Alpha Lambda Delta. Selection is based on maintaining a 3.5 grade point average, academic records, participation in Alpha Lambda Delta activities, campus and community service activities and the applicant’s essay answers.
The chapter also received the Maintaining the Flame Award which highlights continued excellence in programming, internal communications, campus visibility and overall presentation of their application. NSU’s ALD chapter participates in Demon Days, Sophomore Breakfast Club, Get Loud at the Library, Be a Tourist in Your College Town, NSU Wellness Fest, Yappy Hour and other activities while supporting numerous service projects, such as Fridays at Watson Library, the NSU Food Pantry and Special Olympics.
The Riverdale Freshman Class will host a fundraiser at The York Chop on April 23 from 5-8pm. The class members will wait tables for tips. The fundraiser will help the class with expenses including prom and their senior trip. Cash tips are preferred.
Clara Springs Camp will host Fourth Friday Fish Fry April 26 from 5-7pm. Hosted by Grand Cane Baptist. It is Foster Ministry Awareness Month. Everyone is asked to bring socks/underware donations for boys and girls sizes 2T-14 to give to Foster Care Closets. Foster families will eat FREE. Dinner is $15 and includes all you can eat fried fish, coleslaw, french fries, hushpuppies, pinto beans, lemon bread pudding, homemade ice cream and drinks. Kids 9 and under eat FREE. Only $10 for kids ages 10-17.
Castor High School FBLA will host BINGO Night Saturday, April 27 at 6pm in the new gym. The community is welcome to come play. Contact Brittney Lea for preorder information at Brittney.lea@bpsb.us. Concessions will be sold. 10 prize packages are on the line and kids’ bingo is also happening. All proceeds will support the high school and middle level FBLA national qualifiers and their trip to Orlando.
St. James Church of God in Christ, in Powhatan, will celebrate the Anniversary of Pastor and First Lady Brandon and Kristen Jackson on Sunday, May 5 at 3pm. Guest speaker will be Pastor Joey Miller of Victorious Life Ministries of Coushatta.
Woman Church will be held May 7 from 6-8pm at The Shop, 1942 Hwy 507. Worship leaders for the night are Maura Dupree and Kaitlyn Beard and the speaker is Kat Arnold. Dinner will be provided. Bring your Bible and a friend.
Interested in learning more about using that air fryer you still have in a box? Red River Parish Helping Hands will host an instructional presentation at the Jack & Laura Center May 9 at 1pm.
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