Juanette Yelverton
July 15, 1978 – November 19, 2023

Karen Taylor Squires

As the end of 2023 nears, preparations for a new year for the Coushatta-Red River Chamber of Commerce are in full swing. Each year, in January, the Chamber has an open meeting to elect board members and officers. This past year, an eager group of business owners and operators came together to create an energetic board of directors. This group helped to create two new events for Red River, the Easter Egg Hunt and Red River Glows. The flagship event will be Dec 7, 2023, when the Christmas Parade and Fireworks burst through Coushatta.

This year is the final Christmas parade and gathering for me as the Chamber of Commerce leader. I have enjoyed every moment of my time as a chamber member and president. Getting to know the business community and working with the people of Red River proved that Coushatta has the best people far and wide.

When the membership meeting occurs in January, I urge all business owners and interested citizens to attend. Get active—volunteer for the board. Be a part of the change in Coushatta-Red River. This new board will need more than just membership. They will need people to join in and offer support. No good thing comes from sitting on the sidelines and hoping for the best. To make this community a better place and conserve the home atmosphere of this town, we need to all commit some time and energy to the cause.

I want to thank the board for the last 12 years I have volunteered. I have been blessed to serve with many good board members and great individuals in this area.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 SHREVEPORT, LA — As plans are being made to celebrate the Thanksgiving season with family and friends, LifeShare Blood Center is encouraging volunteer blood donors to give blood leading up to the holiday.

LifeShare is providing a special THANK YOU to donors who choose to donate anytime from November 18th through November 22nd. During this five-day period leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday, all LifeShare donors will receive a free LifeShare shirt and a voucher valued at $15 toward the purchase of a turkey or ham.

“Holidays are a hard time for blood collections as our normal collection points, such as schools and businesses, close for the holidays. LifeShare supplies over 100 hospitals and medical partners with blood and blood products throughout the region. Since Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what we are most grateful for, LifeShare is giving thanks to our donors for giving blood and sharing life,” says Mandi Johnson, Director of Community Engagement.

Vouchers will be available at all LifeShare donor centers and all mobile drives from Saturday, November 18th through Wednesday, November 22nd. To schedule a donation appointment, visit: www.lifeshare.org/give. Walk-ins are welcome.

Please contact me if you have any questions, or reach out to the District Director for our Shreveport Center, Jeremy Martin at 318.222.7770

Our Shreveport Center is located at 8910 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport, LA  71106

Best,

Mandi Johnson, MLIS

Director of Community Engagement

LifeShare Blood Center

318.671.5850 (O)

8910 Linwood Ave.

Shreveport, LA 71106

LSU AgCenter is hosting Christmas Movie Night at the Farm December 15 at 6pm. The night will feature Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer on the big barn at the Red River Research Station, 262 Research Station Drive in Bossier. 

Mr. & Mrs. Claus will make a special appearance. Hot chocolate and cookies will be provided. Make sure to bring your chair and/or blankets. Wear your favorite Christmas PJs.

$5 per ticket, limited to the first 200 people. Payable by cash or check to LSU AgCenter. Payment for tickets are due upon reservation. RSVP by December 11 by contacting Donna Hayes at 318.408.0971.

By Doug De Graffenried

Someplace in my collection of books is 14,000 Things to be Happy About. It is a pick-me-up kind of book. These books and others remind us of all the small things for which we can be thankful. I know I need a nudge every now and then.

Take this article, how are you reading it? Back in the day, the television was in the den. The stereo was often in your bedroom. It was never far enough way from the adult who insisted that you turn it down. The telephone was on the wall, usually in the kitchen. If you were lucky there was an extension phone in your bedroom. The news was delivered daily. In the morning some nice person threw a newspaper onto your driveway. In the evening, Walter Cronkite would tell you everything, so that you would know “that’s the way it is.” On rare occasions your favorite television show would be interrupted by a “News Bulletin.” Where I grew up, you were more likely to have a “weather bulletin.” Mail came once a day, except on Sunday. The mailbox was eagerly watched for the daily delivery. There could be almost anything in your mailbox. Everything I have described is residing on your phone. I am thankful for technology that allows me to be productive and stay connected.

Speaking of connections, are you thankful and happy about the connections in your life? This week we find out about our connections, don’t we? This is the week that family descend upon us. Ready or not, here they come! Thanksgiving is also the time when we find out that those family connections come with traditional culinary expectations.

I wish to announce that this year for Thanksgiving, my tribe has shunned turkey! I put my foot down! No one likes turkey, why do we do the annual complaining about the dry turkey, or worse come up with some exotic recipe to try and outsmart the dry turkey? Eat steak!

There was a vote of the people coming to Gibsland this week. The quorum approved my motion to get rid of turkey in favor of steak. The change was approved with two amendments. I cook steaks and we have dressing. They have not figured out that the menu change gave me the right to hang out by the grill, ALONE. Have I mentioned that I am thankful for solitude on Thanksgiving? I’m grateful for people who understand introverts!

I am thankful for my family and my friends. I am thankful for the stories that will surround this Thanksgiving. I know with a menu change there might be a revolution in the tribe. I could be overthrown. I’m thankful that in my house on Thanksgiving there will be four generations represented. What stories will you tell about this Thanksgiving?

I am thankful that for just a few minutes I was a part of your life. Thanks for reading these articles! I know not everything in your life brings you joy, but there is so much for which you can be thankful. If nothing comes to mind quickly, you can borrow my book.

Let me quote from another book: “Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever!” That’s all it takes to be thankful. A good God loves you with a love that endures, no matter what!

A graveside service celebrating the life of Emily Matilda Hallock, 86, will leave Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, November 22, 2023, going to Thomas Wren Cemetery in Martin with Sister Norene Delp officiating.  Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM at the funeral home.

Mrs. Hallock was born on September 12, 1937, in Castor, LA to George and Delie Ouzts and passed away November 17, 2023, at her residence in Coushatta, LA.

Mrs. Hallock was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Jeff Farley; son, Donald Farley; sister, Lucille Wood; brothers, Sidney Ouzts, Ezra Ouzts, and Huey Ouzts; and a host of nieces gone on too soon. Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Arthur Hallock; step-son, Arthur Hallock, IV; daughters, Debbie Hundley and spouse; Delores J. Farley; and step-daughter, Peggy Richerson; grandchildren, Jeffrey Orr and spouse, Amanda Lester and spouse, Matthew McKeel and spouse, and Mason McKeel and spouse; nine great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Honoring Mrs. Hallock as pallbearers will be Matthew McKeel, Mason McKeel, Mike Layfield, and Richard Clements.

The Mansfield State Historic Site recently shared a post stating there’s shift in programming for the next five years. See the post below: 

As the site moves forward in the days ahead, you may notice a change to the type of interpretation and educational programming that we are doing. Beginning now and moving through the next five years, the site is shifting to primarily children-centered programming that focuses equally on the history AND the nature of the battlefield, with at least 80 percent of our programs and temporary museum exhibits geared towards children and families. We especially want to reach out to our under 10 (or grades PreK-5) crowd and school groups from regional elementary schools. While the types of programming we have done up to now have been well received by the public, we feel we need to do more to reach out to our youngest audience, who will be the future patrons of our parks and historic sites!

There will still be programs for our adult audiences, like lectures, guided tours of the battlefield, staff rides for military groups, and possibly a book club! But we have come to the decision to start focusing primarily on getting children and parents back to the site, which we hope will increase the number of potential future patrons that will protect our Louisiana heritage! For information on upcoming programming, contact the site at 318-872-1474 and ask for the site manager for potential upcoming programming!

MEDIA RELEASE
November 20, 2023
Coleman Swierc
Public Relations – CHRISTUS Health
830-583-6251
Coleman.Swierc@christushealth.org

(Shreveport, Louisiana) – CHRISTUS Health announced today that Casey Robertson has been appointed as the new president and CEO of the CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System, effective Dec. 4.

Robertson comes to Shreveport from the CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System in Longview, Texas, where he spent 18 months as chief operating officer.

“I am very much looking forward to working with our great CHRISTUS Associates and the communities here in the Shreveport-Bossier area,” Robertson said. “This is such a great ministry that has done some amazing work in recent years, and I look forward to continuing the great work and growing our ministry.”

Robertson brings nearly 20 years of health care administration, including more than 10 years at the CEO level. Prior to joining CHRISTUS, he was CEO of Sadiant Inc., a Fort Worth-based clinical on-demand organizations.

His previous roles included CEO at Longview Regional Medical Center in Longview and Woodland Heights Medical Center in Lufkin, Texas.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in health care administration from Trinity University in San Antonio.

“I cannot speak highly enough of the work that Casey has done in our Good Shepherd ministry,” said Chris Glenney, CHRISTUS senior vice president of Group Operations for Northeast Texas and North Louisiana. “I know that our future in Shreveport-Bossier under his leadership is very bright and that we will continue to provide excellent, faith-based care that is consistent with the values of CHRISTUS Health.”

Robertson replaces Dr. Steen Trawick, who had served in the role since 2019.

A nationwide search is also underway for a dedicated chief medical officer for the CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System, who will focus on advancing clinical excellent and quality.

###

About CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System: 
A faith-based, not-for-profit health system, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System is part of CHRISTUS Health, sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. CHRISTUS is among thelargest Catholic health systems in the country and one of the 20 largest of all health systems in the nation. CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System has provided health care in Northwest Louisiana for over 100 years. Our mission is to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. For more information about CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System, visit http://www.christushealth.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 20, 2023
Contact: govpress@la.gov 

BATON ROUGE, La. – Earlier today, November 20, Governor John Bel Edwards and First Lady Donna Edwards met with Governor-Elect Jeff Landry and Mrs. Sharon Landry at the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion to discuss the gubernatorial transition, life at the mansion, and the day-to-day demands of being governor and first lady.

“Donna and I were happy to visit with Jeff and Sharon at the mansion today as they prepare to take on the demanding, rewarding roles of governor and first lady,” said Governor John Bel Edwards. “There are many unique aspects to serving as Louisiana’s First Family, and we want to be a resource to Jeff and Sharon as they go through the process we went through eight years ago. As I have said repeatedly, my administration is committed to a smooth and efficient transition of power on behalf of the people of Louisiana.”

“Sharon and I had a great meeting with Governor John Bel Edwards and First Lady Donna Edwards. After eight years serving as governor and first lady, they are a wealth of knowledge and a great resource for me and Sharon as we work to build a government as good as the people of this state,” said Governor-elect Jeff Landry. “We appreciate their willingness to help with a smooth transition as we head into the next stage of Louisiana’s future.”

Select senior staff from the Governor’s Office and the One Louisiana Transition Committee also met today to discuss the functions of the Governor’s Office staff. Landry transition team members and Edwards Administration staff have been in regular contact since primary election night.

By: Glynn Harris

I have this quirky friend up in north Arkansas that you really have to keep your eye on. Here’s what I’m talking about…I was invited once several years ago to fish the Little Red River in Arkansas for trout.

Jim Spencer, Keith Sutton and I shared a boat and although the two of them, both Arkansans, have caught a ton of trout in their lives, I had never caught one. I cast out, felt a tug on my line and hooked into my very first rainbow trout. Thrilled wasn’t an adequate word but I was so happy to finally catch a species of fish I had never caught and I was expressing my glee at finally hooking my first.

Unbeknownst to me, Spencer had slipped up behind me while I was fighting my fish. When I first noticed him, I assumed he was there to help me land the fish if need be. Glancing back, I noticed he had his knife in his hand and a certain gleam in his eye when he reached out, not to help me land my trout but to cut my line.

Somehow, I managed to get the fish in the boat, which was not easy to do while maneuvering around to keep him from slicing my line. That’s one side of the Jim Spencer I know and I have learned to always keep my eyes open when I’m around him.

The other side I know and appreciate about Jim Spencer is that anything he writes, I get as absorbed in it as I did the day I kept him away from my line. Spencer is to me one of the very best outdoor writers anywhere in the country, especially when it comes to writing about his obsession, wild turkeys.

Several years ago, Spencer started thinking about all the gobblers he has taken but the equal number that had whipped him. He came up with the idea of producing a book about times where the gobbler had won. He produced a book that would take the turkey hunting world by storm. He named it Bad Birds 1.

Realizing there were more stories to tell, he later put together his second version of the book, naturally naming it Bad Birds 2.

Believing he had covered all the bases in talking about those gobblers that had handed him his rear end, he assumed he was done. However, there were a number of stories he knew he could tell that had yet to be told so he did it again. His latest version of his self-flagellation regarding gobblers has led him to, once again, bare his soul in Bad Birds 3.

I have read all three books and while the first two were classics, I think this last one is the best; he leaves no stone unturned in sharing his disappointment, disgust and downright frustration of the times that gobblers have beat him.

Spencer’s wife, Jill, shares his addiction of hunting turkeys and they travel the country together every spring to play games with gobblers. Jim had Jill, who is also an award winning outdoor writer herself, to produce the foreward for his latest book.

“If you run into us somewhere along the trail in some future spring,” Jill writes, “say howdy and tell us some turkey stories. Jim is always willing to talk about these birds he can’t leave alone.”

Bad Birds 3 sells for $25 plus $6 shipping. Best bet is the package deal featuring all three Bad Birds for $55 delivered. He’ll also add his Turkey Hunting Digest for an extra $12, for a total of $67. Order to Treble Hooks Unlimited, P.O. Box758, Calico Rock, AR 72519.

You talk about a fine Christmas gift for the turkey hunter, this is it. Adding a word of caution, if you are ever privileged to share a fishing boat with Spencer, be sure and keep an eye on him; he could be opening his knife.

The 19th Annual Fleur de Lis Christmas Craft Market is coming to Natchitoches on November 25 from 9am – 4:30pm at the Natchitoches Events Center, 750 Second Street. This event is free and open to the public.

Upscale Events will present Holiday Heart Festival December 9 from 1-5pm at the Coushatta Event Center. Donations of toys, treats, prizes and other items to give away to kids are needed. If a business or vendor would like to participate contact Lavandria Taylor at 318.461.7773. Santa will be there for children to visit and take pictures. 

Fairview Baptist Church is hosting ‘Speak Jesus Painting party Sunday, December 10 from 5-7pm. Cost is $10. All ladies and girls (ages 5 and up) are invited to attend and encouraged to bring a food to share.

Emily Matilda Hallock
September 12, 1937 — November 17, 2023
Graveside Service: Wednesday, November 22 at 11:15am at Thomas Wren Cemetery-Martin

Monday, November 20, 2023 1:28 PM
 (UPDATE 11/20/2023): DOTD advises motorists that these repairs are complete, and this bridge has been REOPENED. We appreciate your patience while this work was underway.

Riverdale Academy graduates of the 80’s had their second joint reunion Nov. 18 at the Coushatta County Club. The gathering was organized by the class of 1983. Donna, Renee, Mary Ann, Rhonda, and Lonnie made sure that all the attendees were totally immersed in the 80’s.

More than 50 attendees danced to the music of the era and reminisced about great memories of high school. Thomas Hardee was the graduate who came the furthest distance, Cassie McWilliams has the most grandchildren, and Brad Rayburn has lived in the most places since graduation. The class of 83 had the most members in attendance. A special appearance from Sonny Hardee and Susan Taylor made everyone’s night.

The last event of the 80’s graduates was 10 years ago. In that time and since graduation, the class of 1985 has sadly lost the most members. A time of remembering all of those who have passed away was observed by everyone.

Everyone at the event decided that the next gathering must be epic.

Three pillars of the Northwestern State University family were honored and memorialized Nov. 18 when the NSU Foundation announced the creation of the Jack Brittain Jr., Jerry Pierce and Richard Ware First Generation Endowed Scholarships, made possible by a $300,000 donation from Robert “Skeeter” Salim. 

“The impact of these scholarships cannot be overstated,” said NSU President Dr. Marcus Jones, noting that 34 percent of NSU students are the first in their families to attend college. 

Jones and Edgar Cano-Lopez, assistant professor of art, unveiled a portrait of Brittain, Pierce and Ware depicting the three individuals with the NSU columns in the background, symbolic of their legacies at the university. 

Salim, a Northwestern State tennis letterman from 1968-72 is a successful attorney with offices in Natchitoches and Houston.  His support of Demon baseball has been pivotal for over two decades, resulting in significant facility enhancements and more. Also a significant supporter of men’s and women’s basketball through the years, Salim’s engagement with Demon baseball began in the John Cohen era and his involvement was vital to the renovations of Brown-Stroud Field led by Cohen in 2000, and improvements large and small since. 

Salim has rallied other community leaders to become involved with the program.  He has been actively involved in youth baseball in Natchitoches as well as with the Special Olympics.  He was selected as one of the 100 Top Trial Lawyers determined by the American Trial Lawyers Association and named to America’s Top 100 High Stakes Litigators.  He was inducted in to NSU’s N- Club Hall of Fame in 2019. 

“I know how much these three people loved our university, loved this community and how much of an impact they had in so many lives and will forevermore have impact, certainly because of what’s happening there today,” said Doug Ireland, former Sports Information Director at NSU and friend to the three honorees.

“This was my idea about honoring these three guys together.  These guys were always together.  The three of them were just so intertwined and their love for Northwestern was incredible.  You couldn’t have a conversation with any one of the three of them when Northwestern didn’t come up in the conversation,” Salim said.  “I had a special relationship with all three of them.”  

Brittain, a Natchitoches native and four-year (1974-78) Demon football letterman and 2013 N-Club Hall of Fame Distinguished Service Award honoree, was a passionate supporter of Natchitoches, Northwestern State and Demon Athletics.  A standout multi-sport athlete at St. Mary’s Catholic School before coming to Northwestern State, Brittain primarily played wide receiver long before the pass-happy offenses of today were widespread.  He played a pivotal role in keeping Joe Delaney’s memory and heroism alive after Delaney’s death trying to save three children in a Monroe Pond June 29, 1983.

Brittain’s largesse was not limited to Northwestern State football.  In addition to serving as the sideline reporter for football radio broadcasts on the Demon Sports Network for 18 years, he was an avid supporter of all NSU athletics — offering assistance to various programs within the department, leaving a stamp on them in the process.  His influence extended past the playing field and well past Natchitoches’ city limits.

After attending law school, Brittain was involved in the Louisiana political scene, working alongside U.S. Senators John Breaux and J. Bennett Johnston and other high-ranking politicians. The networking connections he made assisted a litany of NSU administrators throughout their tenures in Natchitoches. Brittain served as legal counsel for the Louisiana Sports Writers Association. The LSWA holds its annual convention in Natchitoches alongside the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame induction weekend. Whenever new Hall of Famers came to Natchitoches, they typically found Brittain involved in some shape or volunteer fashion.  Brittain was made a life member of the LSWA and later received its Mac Russo Award, given to an individual or individuals who “contributes to the progress and ideals of the LSWA,” in 2017.

“Britt,” as he was known, passed away July 11, 2023, after a brief illness and his family established the Jack Brittain Jr. Memorial Scholarship that will benefit a female student-athlete.

Pierce served over 57 years on staff at NSU and was vice president of External Affairs from 1990 until his death last November. Pierce’s impact at the university, in the community and around the state was profound, not only as an administrator, but as a writer, humorist, ambassador, fund raiser and mentor to personnel at all levels of administration, including nine NSU presidents.

A graduate of Springhill High School, Pierce was recruited to NSU in 1957 as a football trainer and was a four-year letterman in that position.  As a student, he was an N-Club officer and sports editor of The Current Sauce.  He joined the staff at the Times-Picayune in New Orleans after receiving his journalism degree in 1961 and became executive sports editor at age 24.

Pierce returned to NSU in 1965 as Sports Information Director.  He later served as News Bureau director and assistant to the president before he was named vice president of External Affairs, overseeing NSU Athletics, NSU Foundation and Alumni Affairs, News Bureau/Media Relations, Sports Information, the Wellness, Recreation and Activities Center and the NSU Recreation Complex.

He worked for years with legislators and other elected officials as the university’s governmental affairs representative, served as institutional representative to the NCAA and Southland Conference and was a former president of the conference. He cochaired Northwestern’s Centennial celebration and 125^th anniversary activities. Pierce represented NSU as a speaker and master of ceremonies at hundreds of events across the state for decades and as host or guest on numerous radio and television shows and special broadcasts.

Pierce brought the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame to Natchitoches in 1972 and directed the program for nearly 20 years.  In addition to writing and editing decades’ worth of news release and publications at NSU, he also wrote books and thousands of stories and articles of all kinds for Louisiana newspapers and statewide publications.  He was Northwestern’s liaison for the filming of “Steel Magnolias” and “The Man in the Moon” and was coeditor of “Steel Magnolias Scrapbook” on the filming of the movie in Natchitoches.

Pierce earned numerous professional recognitions and was extensively involved in civic activities through the years, earning even more accolades. He provided substantial support to the university and was recognized for more than 20 consecutive years of contributions to the NSU Foundation.  He and his wife Regina established endowed scholarships at the university in athletics and academics.

As district judge, Ware presided over the 39^th Judicial District, which encompasses all of Red River Parish.  Born in West Monroe, Ware was president of his senior class at West Monroe High School in 1967. As a hard-running fullback at NSU from 1967-70, he won all Gulf States Conference recognition and was the league’s Most Valuable Back as a senior.  He led the demons in rushing in 1969 and 1970.  His 1,735 career yards rushing ranks 10^th all time in school history. He also played tennis for Coach Johnnie Emmons and was named to the Top 100 Demons of the Century roster, chosen for the 2007 football centennial celebration.

Ware did extensive work advocating prevention of child abuse in Louisiana.  He was chairman of the Children’s Trust Fund Board and the Louisiana Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges.  He was a member of the Children’s Code Committee and the Continuing Revision Committee of the Louisiana Law Institute.

Ware was an avid supporter of Northwestern’s athletic and alumni activities and served as an adjunct faculty member while practicing law in Natchitoches before becoming district judge.  Ware was the color analyst for radio broadcasts of Demon football games for 17 years.

He was killed in a car accident Aug. 31, 1996.  That season, Northwestern’s football team wore black decals with Ware’s jersey number, 38, on their helmets.

“I wanted to do something for Northwestern, but I also wanted to honor these guys.  What would be a better way than to see the picture of Richard and Britt and Jerry,” Salim said.  “It won’t ever go away. In my mind, in my memory, these guys will never go away. Their names and their legacies will stay a part of Northwestern.”

An application for $60,000 in matching funds has been submitted to the Louisiana Board of Regents to bring the total endowment corpus to $360,000.  The permanent scholarship endowment will assist first generation college students at Northwestern State University who are the first in their family to attend college.

To make a contribution to the scholarship fund, contact Cristy Bernard at (318) 357-4292 or visit www.northwesternstatealumni.com/BPWFG to make an online contribution.

By: Chloe Spradley

This past month, the Lady Rebels kicked off basketball season with their first few games and are off
to a good start! The Rebels have been working hard for months preparing for the season; come support
them for their upcoming games!

Dec, 2 nd against Silliman – 2:30 – at Home – JVG, JVB, VG, VB
Dec. 8 th and 9 th – PVA tournament – at Prairie View – VG, VB
*Dec. 12 th – against Central – 5:00 – Away – VG, VB
*Jan. 5 th – against Briarfield – 4:00 – Away – JVG, JVB, VG, VB
*Jan. 9 th – against Northeast Baptist – 4:00 – Home – JVG, JVB, VG, VB
Jan. 11 th – against LSMSA – 6:00 – Away – VG, VB
*Jan. 12 th – against Claiborne – 4:00 – Away – JVG, JVB, VG, VB
Jan. 15 th – against Columbia Christian – 5:00 – Home – JVB, VG, VB
*Jan. 16 th – against Central – 5:00 – Home – VG, VB
*Jan. 19 th – against Union Christian – 4:00 – Away – JVG, JVB, VG, VB
*Jan. 23 rd – against Northeast Baptist – 4:00 – Away – JVG, JVB, VG, VB
*Jan. 26 th – against Briarfield – 4:00 – Home – JVG, JVB, VG, VB
Jan. 27 th – JV District Tourney – TBA – at Northeast Baptist – JVG, JVB
Jan. 29 th – against West Side Christian – 5:00 – Away – JVB, VG, VB
*Jan. 30 th –against Union Christian – 6:00 – Home – VG, VB
*Feb. 2 nd – against Claiborne – 6:00 – Home – VG, VB
Feb. 3 rd – against LSMSA – 5:00 – Home – VG, VB
Feb. 5 th – 10 th – South AA Tourney – TBA – Home – VG, VB
Feb. 12 th – 17 th – State AA Tourney – TBA – at Delta Academy – VG, VB
Feb. 19 th – 24 th – Overall Tourney – TBA – Mississippi College – VG, VB

*- District Games

November 18, 2023  News Release

The Thomas Assembly Center saw Louisiana Tech University confer 304 degrees on members of the Tech Family at the 346th Louisiana Tech commencement.

Dr. Matthew Napoli, Executive Director of Foreign and Public Affairs for the United States Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, provided perspective for the new graduates and called for unity within their communities.

“I challenge you to take the wealth of knowledge gained at Louisiana Tech and build upon its foundation,” Napoli said. “I challenge you to maintain and grow the relationships established on this campus.”

Napoli encouraged the newest members of the Tech family to grow in their post-graduate lives but to remain loyal to their alma mater.

“When you plant your roots after leaving or staying in Ruston, bring the community pride and values that are so strong on the Louisiana Tech campus with you and contribute to your next community,” Napoli said.

During the ceremony, Devin Ferguson, Assistant Vice President for Philanthropy and Engagement for University Advancement, presented George A. Baldwin, Jr., with the Tower Medallion Award and inducted him into the Hall of Distinguished Alumni.

The Tower Medallion Award signifies membership in the Hall and is awarded to Tech alumni who have distinguished themselves by exceptional achievement, community service, and humanitarian activities.

Scotty Moran, Chief Executive Officer of Moran Oil Company, Inc., in Grand Cane and one of the University’s most generous benefactors and trusted advisors, was presented with an honorary Doctor of Science degree. His advocacy and generous financial support were key factors in the construction of the Academic Success Center and the Louisiana Tech Research Institute facilities in Bossier City.

Also during the ceremony, College of Education and Human Sciences student Dominique McKane walked across the stage to receive her diploma from Louisiana Tech President Les Guice. McKane required a medical airlift from campus on Monday morning, just five days prior to commencement, and was able to make her hope of participating in the ceremony a reality.

STATEWIDE NEWS RELEASE
November 17, 2023

Baton Rouge – As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, countless individuals are eagerly preparing to hit the roads and reunite with loved ones. The American Automobile Association estimates over 49 million people will embark on journeys of 50 miles or more by car during this time. With this in mind, Louisiana State Police will be actively patrolling our state’s highways throughout the Thanksgiving holiday travel period.

Troopers will be on the lookout for aggressive and impaired drivers, as well as motorists who neglect to wear seat belts or secure their children in appropriate restraints. Shockingly, statistics from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reveal the majority of fatalities on Louisiana roadways involve the 15 percent of vehicle occupants who choose not to wear seat belts (based on observational surveys). While not all crashes are survivable, wearing a seat belt remains the most effective measure individuals can take to minimize the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Louisiana law states that all occupants in the vehicle must utilize a seat belt and children must be properly restrained in the back seat in a safety child safety seat or booster seat appropriate for their age and size. Children who have outgrown a booster seat but are younger than 13 must be buckled up in the back seat, if one is available. Remember: Click It or Ticket, both day and night. The Click It or Ticket campaign will begin November 18 and is a statewide enforcement campaign.

For the most up-to-date information on road conditions, including closures and construction, please visit www.511la.org or dial 511 from any phone within Louisiana. Additionally, a 511 Louisiana phone app is available for download, and motorists can sign up for traffic alerts from the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD).

We encourage motorists who witness hazardous road conditions and/or reckless drivers to call *LSP (*577) and report the activity to the nearest Louisiana State Police troop location.

The Louisiana State Police extends warm wishes for a safe and joyous Thanksgiving holiday to all.

Contact Information:
Sgt. James Anderson
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (337) 491-2932
james.l.anderson@la.gov

November 17, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BATON ROUGE, La. – Senator Heather Cloud expressed grave concern and urgency following the disturbing events that unfolded at the Office of Juvenile Justice Monroe Swanson Facility for Youth last night. Reports indicate a violent breakout by youth, resulting in the assault and injury of guards, destruction of property including security cameras and ceilings, jeopardizing the safety of both staff, residents and surrounding community.

“These violent attacks highlight the imminent risk these unsecured dangerous youth pose to their peers and the OJJ staff tasked with their care. Last night’s attempted escape and the violent attacks along with several other reported serious incidents and other facilities provide crystal clear evidence that the decision to relocate these individuals from the secure West Feliciana site, where there was additional protection and safeguards provided by the Department of Corrections (DOC), has created opportunities for hazardous and even life threatening conditions with OJJ secure care facilities,” Senator Cloud stated.

“The recent federal court ruling prohibiting the housing of these individuals at the West Feliciana site has not only endangered lives, but has also plunged OJJ into a state of chaos and disarray. Such situations not only result in potential injuries or loss of life, but they also impede the agency’s ability to recruit and retain new personnel amidst an already strained workforce,” she further added.

Senator Cloud stressed the urgency of the impending federal appeals court hearing scheduled for December 5th to reassess the decision barring the placement of youth at the West Feliciana facility. “This hearing cannot arrive soon enough. Meanwhile, immediate action is imperative to ensure the safety of both staff and youth.”

In light of the pressing situation, Senator Cloud proposed the urgent transfer of these level one, dangerous youth to back to the secure West Feliciana unit. “The West Feliciana facility is equipped with the necessary resources and trained staff to handle such outbreaks of violence. These individuals must be relocated to care at West Feliciana without delay,” Senator Cloud asserted.

The safety and well-being of both the youth and those responsible for their care remain Senator Heather Cloud’s top priority, emphasizing the necessity for immediate action and a reassessment of the current situation.

For media inquiries, please contact David Allen (770) 815 – 6445.

All Persons are PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY

RICHMOND, SAVON
25 B M 11/10/2023 11/10/2023
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
FAILURE TO APPEAR – FINES & COSTS $1,237.50 OR 90 DAYS IN JAIL

HOOPER, JOHN
31 B M 11/12/2023 INCARCERATED
ARRESTING AGENCY: COUSHATTA POLICE DEPARTMENT
FAILURE TO APPEAR – FINES & COSTS $582.50 OR 75 DAYS IN JAIL

ROWELL, BETH
54 W F 11/13/2023 11/13/2023
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
FAILURE TO APPEAR – CRIMINAL ARRAIGNMENT O.R. BOND

RAINEY, ARTHUR
41 B M 11/15/2023 INCARCERATED
ARRESTING AGENCY: COUSHATTA POLICE DEPARTMENT
DOMESTIC ABUSE BATTERY $10,000.00

SMITH, ELIJAH
22 B M   11/16/2023   INCARCERATED
ARRESTING AGENCY: RED RIVER PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
ILLEGAL USE OF WEAPONS OR DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTALITIES $100,000.00 (CONCURRENT)
POSSESSION OF OR DEALING IN FIREARMS WITH OBLITERATED NUMBERS OR MARKS $10,000.00 (CONCURRENT)

Pleasant Hill’s Christmas in the Country is looking for vendors. There is NO CHARGE! Set up and enjoy the day while waiting on the parade and fireworks on Saturday November 25th. Just show up on Saturday and set up anywhere on Front Street.  

Teachers and 4-H club leaders can register for a free field trip to AgMagic Baton Rouge! Field trip dates are March 18-22 at the John M. Parker Coliseum on LSU’s main campus. Guided tours for school groups and organizations will be conducted March 18-22, 2024 from 8:30am-12:30pm. NOTE: Each tour will last approximately 90 minutes. Homeschool groups are encouraged to register for tours after 10:30am. The event will be open to the public for self-guided tours on March 23-24, 2024 from 10am to 3pm. For more details visit LSUAgCenter.com/AgMagic. Register here: https://tinyurl.com/AgMagicBR24

Lorris “Bud” Bogan
February 8, 1938 – November 18, 2023
Service: Tuesday, November 21 at 1pm at New Ebenezer Baptist Church, Castor

Little information has been shared about the shooting earlier this week at Coushatta Express Mart on Ringgold Avenue. Local authorities are investigating the shooting however Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office would not comment when RRPJ reached out to them. 

Sources tell the journal that up to seven young men are involved with three of them injured. One has undergone at least two surgeries to repair the damage he sustained from multiple gunshot wounds. 

 More information will be shared as it becomes available.