This is the final week of the American Bank High School Football Pickers Contest. And today is the last day to enter to win the $100 prize. Deadline for entry is 4:00 pm today.

Congratulations to last week’s winner Kayla Hillman of Coushatta. Kayla did the best job of all the Red River Parish entries of predicting the outcomes of ten area high school football games. Kayla told the Journal she picked them all by herself and was not sure about a couple of them. Great job Kayla.

There are a couple of contests this week that could result in upsets. Will you select the correct teams? CLICK HERE to enter the final contest. Good luck!

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The Magnolia Bend-Coushatta October Student of the Month is Anderson “Andi” Carney. Andi is in the third grade. She is the daughter of Rocky Carney, Jr. and Marcy Carney.

When asked why she nominated Andi for this month’s SOTM, Mrs. Chelsea replied, “I chose Andi, because she is not only smart but she always has a smile on her face. She’s always ready to help everyone else around her. She’s hardworking, polite, well behaved, funny and has a huge heart.” 

For her special treat, Andi chose a Sprite and Babe Ruth candy bar. Congratulations, Andi!

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This morning, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum unveiled an officially licensed, limited-edition LSU Tigers 2023 Women’s Basketball National Champions Bobblehead. The bobblehead, which features LSU’s mascot, Mike the Tiger, commemorates the LSU Tigers first basketball National Championship. The release comes as the preseason #1 ranked Tigers prepare for the 2023-24 season with the team’s first game on Monday against 20th-ranked Colorado at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Monday and the first home game of the season against Queens on Thursday. The special edition bobblehead is being produced by the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, an official licensee of the LSU Tigers.

Wearing a purple No. 1 LSU jersey, the bobblehead features Mike the Tiger giving the No. 1 signal with his right hand and holding a basketball with his left hand. Mike is standing on a five-point purple and gold base which reads: “NCAA Women’s Basketball 2023 National Champions LSU.”

Each bobblehead is individually numbered to 2,023 and they are only available through the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum’s Online Store. 

Under second-year coach Kim Mulkey, a Louisiana native, LSU posted a convincing 102-85 victory over Iowa in the championship game before a crowd of 19,842 in the American Airlines Center in Dallas. Mulkey, who previously won three championships at Baylor, became the first women’s basketball coach to win NCAA titles at multiple schools. In addition to claiming the school’s first NCAA Basketball Championship, it was the 50th team national title in the 130-year history of LSU Athletics. Jasmine Carson (22), Alexis Morris (21), Ladazhia Williams (20), Angel Reese (15) and Flau’jae Johnson (10) all scored in double figures in the championship game victory as the Tigers scored the most points in a Women’s Final Four game.

Third-seeded LSU (34-2) beat Virginia Tech, 79-72, in the national semifinals for the program’s first Final Four victory in six attempts. Morris and Reese, the dynamic All-American, combined for 51 points. With a roster featuring nine transfers and freshmen, Mulkey’s theme at the start of her second season in Baton Rouge was “Piece It 2gether.” During the regular season, LSU finished as the runner-up in the SEC to South Carolina, which suffered its only loss of the season to Iowa and star Caitlin Clark in the national semifinals. By winning the championship, the Tigers became just the third No. 3 seeded team to win the title and the first since 1997.

“Led by an incredible all-around team effort, the LSU Tigers were clearly the class of the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament,” National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum co-founder and CEO Phil Sklar said. “In winning the school’s first national title in women’s basketball, the Tigers capped a memorable season with a record-setting performance in the championship game. These bobbleheads are must-haves for LSU Tiger fans.”

About the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum:
The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, which is located at 170 S. 1st St. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, opened to the public on February 1st, 2019. The HOF and Museum also produces high quality, customized bobbleheads for retail sale as well as organizations, individuals, and teams across the country. Visit us online and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Congratulations to the VFW August and September Students of the Month:
Rylan Tingle, Ava Grace Waters, KK Phillips, Lexi Mancil, Morgan Moseley and Kaidyn Williams.

Each student received a certificate of recognition and a gift certificate to Lott Oil/Chevron. Students of the Month are recognized each month throughout the school year.

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Now that I’m in my early 60’s, I’ve noticed that my level of patience is deteriorating rather quickly. The one area really being tested is with the human race and their level of disrespect and stupidity. Now it’s no secret that I too have had my share of crazy moments that I’m not very proud of. But we now live in a time that, for some reason, people have forgotten how to act. The word courtesy has disappeared from the American vocabulary.

About a month ago, I was fishing the American Bass Anglers (ABA) two-day divisional championship on Lake Sam Rayburn. It was during our morning take-off that one human being decided to show just how big a butt head he could be. He CHOSE to make it all about himself instead of being courteous.

Take-off is where the tournament director calls out boat numbers as anglers head out for a day of competition. These take-offs take place next to a boat dock as anglers drive their boats past the dock with their live-wells open. As the boat passes the dock, the director makes sure you have no fish in your live-well and that your aeration system is working properly. It’s basically called a rolling start and is very common among tournament circuits.

Our tournament director, Chris Wayand, who does an outstanding job, was getting ready for take-off when he approached a gentleman fishing off the dock. Chris explained to the man that he was about to release the boats for the tournament, and they would be driving by the dock where he was fishing. Chris politely asked the man if he would like to reel his line in while we drove by so that no one would cut his line with their boat motors.

This is where things went south in a hurry as the boat dock fisherman went off on Chris with a foul language outburst and stated that he had just as much right to fish off that dock as we did to drive by it. Chris acknowledged the man’s point of view and agreed that he did have the right to fish off the dock, but that we would be out of his way in 10 to 15 minutes. Chris was very nice and never even raised his voice even after the guy was rude and inconsiderate.

Recognizing that the dock fisherman was not going to reel his line in for take-off, Chris made an announcement to the tournament anglers and asked that we try and veer away from the dock as quickly as possible so as not to run over the man’s fishing line.

As Chris began to call boat numbers and anglers idled by the boat dock, it was about boat #3 that the moment got really ugly. Boat #3, due to inexperience and inability to control their boat better, managed to run over the dock fisherman’s fishing line and cut it. The angler jumped out of his chair and ran down the dock cursing Chris Wayand while shaking his finger in Chris’s face. The angler used pretty much every curse word in the English language to express his displeasure with his line being run over and that us tournament anglers think we own the lake.

While none of us actually had ownership over any part of Lake Sam Rayburn, this old man (probably in his mid 70’s) was still giving Chris a piece of his mind as I approached the dock as boat #11 during take-off. If I could have the opportunity to talk with this gentleman, I would ask him a couple of questions. Why was he so uncooperative and refused to show a little respect for our take-off that morning? Why was he so set on continuing to fish knowing that the odds of him catching a fish were basically zero while bass boats were driving directly over his fishing area?

For some reason the dock fisherman decided to try and make a point by refusing to cooperate and show a little courtesy to avoid a confrontation. Instead, he CHOSE to make a public scene and show everyone just how uncooperative he could be. What is wrong with people today? Why do some folks choose to be selfish rather than use just a little common sense? Why can’t people be respectful and get along? Where did we as a country lose our respect for one another?

But this one incident is just an example of the country we live in today. IT’S ALL ABOUT ME! Till next time good luck, good fishing and let’s all try to get along and regain respect for each other.

Steve Graf

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B-shift
Wednesday October 18, 2023 at 21:21 Red River Fire District was dispatched to the report of a structure fire behind the Woodland Inn. RRFD arrived on scene to find a wood frame home approximately 60% involved. RRFD requested mutual aid assistance from Bienville Parish Fire District 4&5.

Fire crews performed a transitional fire attack transitioning into the interior of the structure. Bienville FD 4&5 arrived on scene and provided manpower to help extinguish the fire. This incident was called under control at 22:25. Louisiana State Fire Marshall was requested.

No injuries were reported at this incident.

Red River Fire District would like to say thank you to all agencies who played a role in this incident. Bienville Parish Fire District 4&5, Coushatta PD, Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Louisiana State Fire Marshals.

RRFD would also like to say thank you to the firefighters of Red River Parish who protect our community.

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Northwestern State University has named 22 students to its 2023 Homecoming Honor Court. Members of the court were selected by a vote of the student body. The court will be presented after the volleyball match between Northwestern State and McNeese State which begins Saturday, Nov. 4 at 3 p.m. in Prather Coliseum.

Zoe Johnson of Morgan City will be queen of the court and Zac Cooper of Winnsboro will be king.

Other members of the court are Lizzie Blanchard of St. Martinville, Kameron Burns and Nicholas Knotts of Haughton, Jacob Boyter and Nicholas Cooksey of Bossier City, Madison Cook of Vivian, Johnny Cox Jr. of Coushatta, Hannah Davis of Hammond and Scott Fowler and Mary Anna Scruggs of Natchitoches.

Also selected were: Latyriona Jones of Evergreen, Linzie Lampert of Deville, Natalie Mangandi, Caiden Matthews and Kacy Young of Shreveport, Zachary Remedies of Zwolle, Avery Tullos of Benton, Derrick Varnado, Jr. of Gonzales, Malaya White of Opelousas and Terrell Woodard Jr. of Carencro.

Johnson is the daughter of Sonya Johnson and Michael Johnson. She is a senior business administration major. Johnson is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority where she has served as president, recruitment director and vice president of harm reduction. Johnson is president of Purple Jacket Honor Society, treasurer of the Order of Omega and president of Demon Volunteers in Progress. She is a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society and Students for Animal Protection and was a freshman orientation leader for three years. She worked in the university’s First Year Experience office.

Cooper is the son of Sherry Cooper-Carroll and Tim Carroll. He is a senior communications major. Cooper is a member of Pi Kappa Phi, the Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band, the Order of Omega and Demon Volunteers in Progress. He is a member of Demon Mentor Network, Alpha Lambda Delta and a mentor for the President’s Leadership Program. He was a freshman orientation leader.

Blanchard is the daughter of Clyde and Roxanna Blanchard. She is a senior psychology and addiction studies major. Blanchard is a member of Alpha Omicron Pi, the University Programming Council, Alpha Lambda Delta, Students for Animal Protection and the Demon Mentor Network. She is also a member of Psi Chi Honor Society, Order of Omega, Purple Jackets Honor Society and Demon Volunteers in Progress.

Boyter is the son of Brian and Kelly Boyter. He is a senior psychology major. He is president of Pi Kappa Alpha and was a freshman orientation leader for two years. Boyter is a member of the Order of Omega, Alpha Lambda Delta, Students for Animal Protection and the Catholic Student Organization.

Burns is the son of Lindsay Burns and Jason Burns. He is a junior biology major with a biomedical concentration. Burns is a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. He was involved in the First Year Experience program and was a freshmen orientation leader. He is a member of Demon Volunteers in Progress, the Catholic Student Organization and Students for Animal Protection.

Cooksey is the son of Sean and Sally Cooksey and Melinda Cooksey. He is a senior history major. Cooksey is a member of Kappa Alpha, the Student Government Association, Alpha Lambda Delta, Order of Omega, Phi Alpha Delta and Demons in Government. He is also a member of the Catholic Student Organization, Interfraternity Council, Demon Volunteers in Progress and the Demon Mentor Network. He was a freshman orientation leader.

Cook is the daughter of Vanessa Cook and Chad Cook. She is a junior health and exercise major. Cook is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority, the President’s Leadership Program and Demon Volunteers in Progress. Cook is also a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Purple Jackets Club, Order of Omega, Blue Key Honor Society and the Student Government Association.

Cox is the son of Johnny Cox Sr. and Valerie Cox. He is a junior nursing major. Cox is a founder of the Black Male Alliance and is active in the Student Government Association. He is a member of Blue Key Honor Society and Helping Hands and is an alumnus of the President Leadership Program.

Davis is the daughter of Latoya Williams. She is a junior biology major. Davis is a former member of the President Leadership Program, and a member of the Purple Jackets Honor Society. She was a freshman orientation leader and a member of Alpha Lambda Delta. Davis is commissioner of student affairs in the Student Government Association and a member of Order of Omega, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Demon Volunteers in Progress and La Belle Femme.

Fowler is the son of Blake and Kara Fowler. He is a senior business administration major. Fowler is a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity and president of Interfraternity Council and Order of Omega. He was in the Presidential Leadership Program and was a freshman orientation leader. Fowler was a member of Alpha Lambda Delta, Blue Key Honor Society, Demon Volunteers in Progress and the Demon Mentor Network.

Jones is the daughter of Melissa Jones and Mathaniel Jones. She is a junior health and exercise science major with a concentration in physical therapy. Jones was a transfer ambassador and freshman orientation leader. She is a member of Demon Volunteers in Progress, La Belle Femme and the Demon Mentor Network. Jones has written for the student newspaper, the Current Sauce.

Knotts is the son of Mike and Bridgette Knotts and Susanne and Mike Sewell. He is a senior business administration major. Knotts is a member of Blue Key Honor Society and Demon Volunteers in Progress. He was a freshman orientation leader, a Presidential Leadership Program member and a founder of Demons Doing Good.

Lampert is the daughter of Loren and Lisa Lampert. She is a junior health and exercise science major with a concentration in occupational therapy. Lampert was a freshman orientation leader and is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority and Demon Volunteers in Progress and is active in the Baptist Collegiate Ministry. Lampert was in the Presidential Leadership Program and was later a mentor in the program. She was a student worker in the Office of First Year Experience and is former president of Alpha Lambda Delta First Year Honor Society.

Mangandi is the daughter of Mandi Trosclair and Lucas Trosclair and Cesar Mangandi and Nancy Mangandi. She is a senior psychology major. Mangandi is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority, Purple Jackets, Demon Volunteers in Progress and Order of Omega. She is a Presidential Leadership Program mentor, a member of the Demon Mentor Network, served as a freshman orientation leader and worked in the Office of First Year Experience.

Matthews is the son of Shakira Johnson. He is a junior business administration major. Matthews is a member of the Presidential Leadership Program and was a freshman orientation leader. He is a member of the Theta Lambda chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity Inc, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society and is active in the Student Government Association. Matthews was a Reginald F. Lewis Scholar and is active in the Army ROTC program.

Remedies is the son of Anna and Kenny Remedies. He is a hospitality management and tourism major with a minor in Communications. Remedies is a member of Pi Kappa Alpha where he serves as external vice president and was a freshman orientation leader. He is president of Students for Animal Protection, Interfraternity Council vice president, a member of Demon Volunteers in Progress, the Demon Mentor Network, Tri Beta, ASM, the Catholic Student Organization and is a Hospitality Management and Tourism Ambassador.

Scruggs is the daughter of Sammy and Connie Scruggs. She is a senior strategic communications major. Scruggs is a member of Blue Key Honor Society, Order of Omega Honor Society, Students for Animal Protection (SAP), Demon Volunteers in Progress and was a freshman orientation leader. She is a member of Demons in Government, the Student Government Association, Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Demon Mentor Network and the President’s Leadership Program.

Tullos is a junior biology major and is the daughter of Robyn Edmonds and James Tullos and Shane Edmonds and Adelia Tullos. She is family group leader in the Baptist Collegiate Ministry, a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority, events coordinator in the Presidential Ambassadors, treasurer of Purple Jackets and vice president of Alpha Epsilon Delta. Tullos is also a member of Tri-Beta Biological Honors Society, American Society for Microbiology, JOVE Research, Order of Omega, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society Demon Mentor Network and was a 2022 Freshman Connector.

Varnado is a junior communications major and is the son of Trenell Smith and Derrick Varnado Sr. He is a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity where he serves as president. Varnado was vice-president of Recruitment and Programming for the Interfraternity Council in 2022-2023. He was a Reginald F. Lewis Scholar.

White is the daughter of Melissa Miller and John Christopher White. She is a senior communications major with a minor in psychology. White is a member of the Student Government Association, the National Association of Black Journalists, Helping Hands Service Organization and the African American Caucus. She was a freshman orientation leader and is a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Order of Omega and the Eta Chi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Woodard is the son of Cathy and Michael LeBlanc. He is a junior biology major. Woodard is a co-founder of the Black Male Alliance, commissioner of external affairs for the Student Government Association and was a freshman orientation leader. He was the public relations chair for Alpha Lambda Delta and a member of Blue Key National Honor Society, the National Society of Leadership and Success, and was on the Helping Hands Logistics Committee. Woodard is a member of the African American Caucus, Demon Volunteers in Progress and is a marketing Intern at NSU Sodexo Dining Services.

Young is the daughter of Tracy Young and Marty Young. She is a junior history and hospitality management and tourism major. Young is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority where she is vice president of harm reduction), an alumna and current mentor in the President’s Leadership Program, student coordinator of the NSU Food Pantry, secretary of Purple Jackets and Blue Key Honor Society, and past historian and junior advisor of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. She is a member of the Order of Omega Honor Society, Demon Volunteers in Progress and the Baptist Collegiate Ministry and was a freshman orientation leader.

Pictured:
Members of Northwestern State University’s 2023 Homecoming Honor Court are, from left, Terrell “TJ” Woodard Jr., Malaya White, Jacob Boyter, Lizzie Blanchard, Nicholas Cooksey, Linzi Lampert, Zachary Remedies, Tyra Jones, Nick Knotts, Mary Scruggs, Zach Cooper (King), Zoe Johnson (Queen), Hannah Davis, Caiden Matthews, Natalie Mangandi, Kameron Burns, Madison Cook, Derrick Varnado, Avery Tullos, Johnny Cox, Jr, Kacy Young and Scott Fowler.

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Northwestern State University’s Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development will honor several individuals during Homecoming Festivities Nov. 3-4. 

Honorees who will be inducted into the Hall of Distinguished Educators will be Ben LaGrone of Colfax, Phillip McClung and Janna Masson Maggio of Natchitoches; Janice Marie Barrios Moreau of Alexandria and Carolyn Williamson Burroughs of Haughton. 

Brittany Bonnaffons of New Orleans will be recognized as an Outstanding Young Professional in Education and Dr. Vickie Stevens Gentry will be honored as a Friend to Education.

A reception to honor this year’s group of inductees will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 in the Teacher Education Center Commons.  The induction program will begin at 11:30 a.m. in the Middle Lab Auditorium. 

LaGrone earned a B.S. in Agri-Business in 1984, a B.A. in Elementary Education in 1986, M.Ed. in Education Administration and Supervision in 1989 and completed 30+ graduate hours in Educational Administration and Supervision in 1994.  He is the director of the Department of Teaching and Learning for the Natchitoches Parish School Board.

LaGrone began his career as a teacher and coach at Montgomery Junior High and High School, providing instruction in math, science, social studies and P.E.  He was assistant principal at South Grant Elementary for three years, then was a site administrator at Grant Alternative School before he was named principal at Dry Prong Junior High where he served from 1997-2008. He also served as a mentor principal for the Louisiana Educational Leadership Induction Program.  LaGrone was Grant Parish Principal of the Year in 2002 and was a regional finalist for Louisiana Principal of the Year.

In 2008, LaGrone was appointed principal at NSU Middle Lab School, where he created a system to ensure a safe and orderly school environment and a “learning first” culture. He has also been director of the Louisiana Gear Up Summer Camp, for eighth graders who will become first generation college students. He was Natchitoches Parish Principal of the Year in 2010. In 2017, NSU Middle Lab was named a Blue Ribbon School and in 2018, LaGrone was again named Natchitoches Parish Principal of the Year. He has served the profession in many capacities, as a member of numerous academic committees and participating in many leadership training initiatives.

McClung earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education at NSU in 1981 and a Master’s in Education in 1991. After student teaching at Winnfield High School, he began his career teaching at Georgetown High School from 1981-1984 before moving to the Natchitoches Ninth Grade Center from 1984-1991.  From 1992-2016, he was school technology coordinator and 8^th grade team leader at NSU Middle Lab while he was also a supervising teacher, cooperating teacher and adjunct instructor for NSU’s College of Education and Division of Continuing Education.

During the course of his career, McClung earned several honors, including Natchitoches Parish High School Teacher of the Year, Natchitoches Jaycees’ Outstanding Young Educator and was twice named Natchitoches Parish Middle School Teacher of the Year.  He was a regional finalist for Louisiana State Teacher of the Year in 1995 and Louisiana State Middle School Teacher of the Year om 1996.  He also earned the Louisiana Middle School Association Award of Excellence in Education and APEL Distinguished Clinician for mentoring preservice teachers.

In addition to publishing articles on learning and instruction, McClung served on the Louisiana Department of Education committee that developed accountability and piloted languages arts assessment for the LEAP test and pursued technology training to implement one of the charter programs for “Computers for Louisiana’s Kids.”

Maggio is an educator with 30 years of early childhood experience that includes teaching, supervision of staff, budgeting meeting state and national early childhood program standards.  She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education at NSU in 1992 and a Master’s of Education with a concentration in early childhood education in 2006.  Her academic and teaching experience includes eight years as a prekindergarten 3-year-old classroom primary teacher, 21 years as a prekindergarten 4-year-old classroom primary teacher and 17 years as an adjunct instructor at the collegiate level.

Maggio began her career with the Natchitoches Central Right Start program, then was a teacher at NSU’s Child Development Center for 10 years before she was named director of the CDC, where, among many other duties, she was responsible for compliance with state licensing requirements, curriculum development, budgeting, safety and training staff that included supervision and assessment of university students.

Since 2014, she has worked for the Natchitoches Parish School Board as a pre-K teacher responsible for lessons, supervision and assessment of students, testing for magnet applications and assisted with observations for preschool classes in childcare and Head Start. Earlier this year Maggio was appointed NPSB early childhood coordinator, where she prepares and implements meetings, communicates with teachers and paraprofessionals about curriculum implements, documents progress towards goals and keeps the parish in compliance with state regulations. She has also served as an adjunct instructor for NSU.

Moreau has 47 years of teaching experience with15 years in mentoring and supervision.  She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at NSU in 1976 and went on to earn a Master’s in Education, +15 (Academically Gifted) and +30 (Elementary Education).

Moreau began teaching at elementary schools in Rapides Parish while also serving as sponsor of school 4-H Clubs and yearbook and working as a Gifted mentor and for the Louisiana Department of Education in test preparation and writing curriculum guides.  She later focused on Gifted education, serving as Rapides Parish Gifted Coordinator and supervisor of Summer Horizons Gifted Summer Program, establishing Gifted programs at qualifying Rapides Parish high schools and developing the Rapides Parish Enrichment Academy for identifying gifted minority students. Moreau was a presenter at the National Special Education Super Conference and the Louisiana Special Education Super Conference, was a teacher and test administrator for Sylvan Learning center for 10 years and was a teacher for the Louisiana College CATS summer program.

Since 2011, she has been at Grace Christian School providing teacher in-services, analyzing test scores, training and mentoring teachers and observing and evaluating PK-12 teachers.  She is also responsible for planning and coordinating several programs, fund raisers and service projects at the school. In addition to earning numerous professional honors, Moreau is involved in numerous civic and professional organizations and an active member of St. Frances Cabrini Church. 

Burroughs served as dean and professor of science in the Division of Nursing and Allied Health at Bossier Parish Community College from 2008-2022.  As dean, she was responsible for the academic leadership of the 14 science, nursing and allied health programs offered by the Division, ensuring the continual development and accreditation of programs and developing schedules to meet the needs of the students. She also served on the BPCC Planning Council, evaluated division employees, compiled and analyzed division assessment and effectiveness documentation and provided administrative guidance in the initiation, implementation, and accreditation of new programs in Nursing (Registered), Practical Nursing, and Fire Science.

Burroughs earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology Education at NSU in 1976, Master of Education at LSU-Shreveport in 1983 and 12 graduate hours in life sciences at Louisiana Tech in 1995. She began her career as a high school biology teacher and coach in Louisiana and Texas before joining the faculty of Bossier Parish Community College in 1984 where she taught courses and lab instruction in biology, anatomy and physiology.   

Beginning in 1997, Burroughs served as division chair and associate professor of science responsible for academic leadership and administration for the academic division offering courses in science, as well as serving as program director.  In 2003, she was named division chair and associate professor of Science and Allied Health where she was responsible for the initiation, implementation, accreditation, administration, and continued development of 12 allied health programs in addition to the science program and faculty. She also provided classroom instruction of biological sciences and administrative guidance in the initiation, implementation, and accreditation of the Occupational Therapy Assistant, Paramedic, and EMT programs.

Bonnaffons, who teaches high school algebra at Hanhville High in Luling, is Louisiana’s 2023 Teacher of the Year, representing more than 50,000 teachers in the state. She graduated from the Louisiana Scholars’ College at NSU in 2003, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She went on to earn a Master of Science in Business Administration from Louisiana State University, a Master of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Louisiana Monroe and a Master of Arts in Teaching from NSU in 2014.  

As Teacher of the Year, Bonnaffons highlights and enriches the work of both students and teachers. Students entering her Intensive Algebra class had scored unsatisfactorily on their middle school LEAP tests. Bonnaffons led 93 percent of her learners to pass the Algebra 1 LEAP 2025. She believes math teaches students perseverance, reasoning and problem-solving skills, while the community brings together the big picture. She currently serves as a teacher representative on the Louisiana Board of Education and formerly on the Louisiana Teacher Advisory Council working to elevate the voice of teachers in educational policy. Bonnaffons’ initiated a Tutu Tuesdays social media series which reaches over 9,000 followers weekly as it shines a light on the great achievements and everyday practices taking place with educators and learners across the country.

In 2018, Bonnaffons became the head coach for the track team. Since that time, the team has captured four district team championships, was regional runner-up twice and produced more than 50 individual district medalists, more than 30 individual regional medalists and more than 15 state medalists. Bonnaffons has been inducted to the N-Club Hall of Fame at Northwestern State University for athletic achievements, collaborates with the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference track and field championships, and gives athletes the chance to see collegiate opportunities.

Gentry retired from Northwestern State as provost and Chief Academic Officer in 2019.  Prior to that, she was dean of the College of Education and Human Development for 10 years, where she served as the leader in curricular areas and supervised faculty while teaching, advising and promoting excellence in academic standards. Throughout her career, research by Gentry and collaborators was published and presented on the state, national and international levels.  In service to the profession, she has been active in numerous leadership teams at NSU and other academic and professional organizations, earning many honors, awards and grants. 

Gentry joined the faculty at NSU in 1980 as assistant professor of physical education.  She served on faculty at LSU-A and LSU-S and was lecturer at Texas A&M University before being named head of NSU’s Department of Health and Human Performance in 2001, dean of the Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development in 2006 and provost in 2016.

Gentry earned a B.S. in Health and Physical Education at the University of Alabama-Birmingham in 1978, a Master’s in Health and Physical Education at University of Montevallo in 1980 and a Ph.D. in Kinesiology at Texas A&M University in 1993.

Information on NSU Homecoming festivities is available at www.northwesternstatealumni.com 

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Northwestern State University announced updated plans for this weekend’s Homecoming schedule.  The university’s Homecoming will take place Nov. 3-4 as administrators and staff honor students and alumni.

Events on Friday, Nov. 3 include the Long Purple Line luncheon and induction program that will begin at noon at the Natchitoches Events Center.  Check-in will begin at 11:30 a.m. The annual parade and pep rally, a popular community event, will begin at 5:30 p.m., starting on campus and ending at the downtown Natchitoches riverbank, where the Homecoming Honor Court will be recognized and spirit groups will perform.

On Saturday, Nov. 4 the N-Club Hall of Fame reception will begin at 8 a.m. in Hanchey Gallery, followed by the induction program at 9 a.m. in Magale Recital Hall.  Hall of Distinguished Educators will begin with a reception at 10:30 a.m. in the Commons area of the Teacher Education Center, followed by the induction program at 11 a.m. in the Middle Lab School auditorium.

Alumni tailgating will take place at Collins Pavilion and Tailgate Field from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.  The ROTC tailgate has been cancelled.

At 2 p.m., the Spirit of Northwestern Demon Marching Band will perform in Turpin Stadium, along with other spirit groups. Inductees into the School of Creative and Performing Arts Hall of Fame will be recognized. The band will then do a walk through from Turpin to Prather Coliseum. 

Doors to Prather Coliseum will open at 2 p.m. in advance of the 3 p.m. volleyball match between the Lady Demons and McNeese. The band will play “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the NSU Demon fight song at 2:55 p.m. Between sets 1 and 2, inductees into the Hall of Distinguished Educators will be recognized.  Between sets 2 and 3, Mr. and Miss NSU and inductees into the N-Club Hall of Fame, the Long Purple Line and the Hall of Distinguished Educators will be presented.  Following the game, the NSU Honor Court will be presented with the Arch of Steel.

Alumni who plan to attend specific reunions and/or events are encouraged to reach out to the planning organization for details and updates. 

Information will be posted at www.nsula.edu and https://northwesternstatealumni.com as it becomes available. 

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Vincent Damon Furnier was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1948.  Vincent’s father, Ether Moroni Furnier, was a preacher in The Church of Jesus Christ.  His paternal grandfather, Thurman Sylvest Furnier, was also a minister in the church and became president of the organization in the mid-1960s.  Unsurprisingly, Vincent was active in the church.  Most people, even Vincent, expected him to follow in the family business and become a church leader, maybe even a preacher, but a series of events altered the trajectory of his life.   As the saying goes, “The Lord works in mysterious ways.” 

As a child, Vincent struggled with a series of illnesses.  Vincent’s father moved the family from Detroit to Glendale, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix.  The drier climate had the desired effect as the illnesses that plagued Vincent vanished. 

In Glendale, Vincent pulled away from the church.  Children sometimes need to find their own way in life, and so it was with Vincent.  By his twenties, Vincent had stopped going to church altogether although he expressed an interest in returning to church.  He explained, “I’m afraid my appearance would be embarrassing for my father.  I don’t mean that he would be embarrassed, and he would never tell me.  But I don’t think his congregation would like it.”  Vincent’s appearance certainly drew attention.  Vincent wore makeup and bought all his clothes from the Salvation Army.  He sometimes wore his sister’s hand-me-down clothes or something his mother made for him.  Vincent disliked anything that looked new.  When he bought clothing for his girlfriend, he shopped in antique stores. 

Vincent’s life changed forever in 1964 when he and four fellow cross country teammates, Glen Buxtin, Neal Smith, Dennis Dunaway, and Michael Bruce, participated in Cortez High School’s annual Letterman’s talent show.  Vincent and his teammates called themselves the Earwigs, but there was a problem.  Other than Glen Buxton, who played guitar, none of the others played musical instruments.  To circumvent their lack of talent, the Earwigs dressed to resemble the Beatles, complete with wigs, and pretended to play instruments while a record played Beatles songs.  Vincent, the Earwigs’ lead singer, sang parodied lyrics to the Beatles songs.  For example, one of the songs they mimed and parodied was “Please Please Me.”  In it, rather than singing “Last night I said these words to my girl,” Vincent sang “Last night I ran four laps for my coach.”  The reception was better than anyone expected.  Vincent and his teammates won the talent show.  Because of their strange success, they decided to form a real band.  Vincent’s friends learned to play instruments and Vincent began to write songs and to improve his singing voice and stage presence.  In his high school yearbook, Vincent said his ambition was to become “a million record seller.”  

Vincent and his friends performed under various band names from the Earwigs to the Spiders and Nazz with minor success.  Finally, Vincent and his friends decided that they needed a gimmick to succeed.  They settled on a band name which sounded innocent and wholesome, which was in direct contrast to their stage shows.  The band became somewhat successful, but with that success came pressure, drugs, and alcohol.  Vincent became an alcoholic and drug addict.  It is likely that Vincent has died more times than any other human in history.  On multiple occasions, Vincent has died seven, eight, sometimes ten times in a single evening.  Each time, he was brought back to life.  Finally, after decades of drug and alcohol abuse, Vincent found a new addiction which took the place of drugs and alcohol.  Vincent became addicted to golf.  The son and grandson of preacher men also became a born-again Christian.  The Lord works in mysterious ways.

For some of the band members, their dream had become a nightmare.  After a decade of performing together, the band fell apart.  Vincent wanted to keep performing but disagreements with the other band members meant that Vincent could not use the band name.  Finally, Vincent found a loophole.  The only way he could perform under his old band name was to legally change his name to the band name.  In 1973, Vincent legally changed his name.  Under his new name, Vincent has sold more than 50 million records.  His deaths, as mentioned earlier, were not due to illness or overdose.  He continues to die multiple times an evening in various ways as part of his elaborate stage show.  You know Vincent Damon Furnier, who became addicted to drugs and alcohol, then became a born again Christian and avid golfer, as Alice Cooper. 

Sources:

1.      The Ottawa Journal, August 20, 1971, p.12.

2.     Albany Democrat-Herald, April 19, 1975, p.33.

3.     The Baltimore Sun, April 26, 1975, p.10.

4.     Concord Monitor, July 29, 2004, p.6.

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Red River Junior High and Red River High School will host a Literacy Luau on November 14 from 5-7pm in the RRJH Gym. Lots of activities are planned including a bake sale, Bingo for books, Wordle, Tic Toc to writing and lots of prize drawings. Concessions will be available for purchase. 

The LHSAA and LHSAA Network announced the return of the LHSAA football bracket release show. Watch all the brackets released live Sunday, November 5 at 11am on the LHSAA YouTube Channel. Watch live on http://youtube.com/@LHSAA1920.

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Jackie Lee Williams Thomas
January 23, 1957 – October 27, 2023
Service: Saturday, November 4 at 1pm at House of Refuge Ministries, 2423 Springville Rd., Coushatta

Cassandra Guye-Randolph
October 26, 2023
Service: TBA

Red River Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $70. Contact your funeral provider or RedRiverParishJournal@gmail.com. Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RedRiverParishJournal@gmail.com)

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Karen Taylor Squires

The happiest place on earth! Have you ever been? I went in October for my seventh trip. Disney has something for everyone and too much for any one person. It is breathtaking, thrilling, and exhausting all in one package. Seeing Mickey Mouse through the eyes of a 5-year-old and 20-month-old is an experience like no other.

We had six adults and two children, and thanks to the hard work of our leader in charge Kaitlyn Squires, we navigated the week with smiles and only a few tears. Yes, I did shed some tears; my blisters had blisters.

We had our first airplane flights for the grandkids, and they were champs. Landing in Orlando, we were greeted by our driver for the week. He was full of dad jokes. We arrived at the Riviera Resort and began the immersion in all things Disney. One quickly gets comfortable with being catered to at every turn. I definitely appreciate that the coffee was always hot, and the pastries were always fresh. Even if they cost more than Starbucks. YIKES

Each day, Kaitlyn had our days planned, lightning lanes booked, and food reservations at the ready. We hit Epcot first and ate/drank our way through the International Food Festival. Going to Epcot in October is my favorite time of the year. The festival is impressive, and the weather is sublime.

We rolled into Magic Kingdom on Tuesday. We were on a mission to meet as many princesses as possible. Not only did we meet several princesses, but we also rode some teacups, a magic carpet, Dumbo, and the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. The real party started at about 6 when the Not So Spooky Halloween Party began. So much candy, so many lights, the spooky parade, fireworks galore, and the Sanderson Sisters extravaganza brightened the dark sky. Did we see all of the fireworks? That would be a no because our youngest did not care for the booms. Did we see all of the spectacular parade—that would be a no too. Our girl had to wait until the parade started to decide a bathroom trip was needed.

We slept in on Wednesday; it was necessary—my feet–oh, my aching feet. We ate, swam, and relaxed the day away. Be assured by now, I am preparing for my most anticipated park of all, Hollywood Studios. The kids can have the princesses and Mickey; I came for Star Wars, Darth Vader, Tower of Terror, and my all-time favorite, The Rocking Roller Coaster. Our day in Hollywood did not start with my choice. It began at the Slinky Dog Ride. It was a bit thrilling for me. The five-year-old thought it was terrific. We spent time riding with Buzz, Woody, and the gang. Then, it was time for the grown-ups. Don’t get me wrong, the kids did the Disney Jr. Dance Party and saw Beauty and the Beast while the adults took turns riding and sightseeing. Vader was impressive, and I swooned just a bit. The Rocking Roller Coaster is still my favorite, and 5-year-old Mabrey thought the Tower of Terror was hilarious.

The last park we visited was Animal Kingdom. Amazical! (I made up that word). I loved the Safari and paid way too much money at Tusker House to have brunch with Mickey. Avatar rides were visually stunning, and the Everest roller coaster did not disappoint. The vibe of this park is much more suited to me. It is more laid back and green. Oh, how I love all of the plants in this park. By this time, we had all been in 11,000 pictures, and the children had had enough. There were rebellions when a camera came their way—we just had to laugh it off and move on. Let’s just say that Kaitlyn uploaded 317 pictures of 7 days. That was a quarter of the ones taken.

The flight home was uneventful, thank goodness. The trip home from the airport could have been more uneventful. (Someone got a ticket, and it was not me). Being home has been an adjustment. My feet have recovered; my pocketbook may never. The memories we shared will never be forgotten. I am thankful to have been a part of this trip with my family. I am thankful that Kaitlyn planned all of it. Much to my chagrin, however, I cannot find the guy to keep filling my coffee mug. I fear he does not exist in Coushatta. What a shame. There goes the magic.

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This year, the Community Thanksgiving Service will be on November 19 at 6:00 p.m. in the Family Life Center at First Baptist Church of Coushatta. The annual gathering of community churches will once again incorporate all the community, no matter the denomination. This service allows everyone in Red River Parish and the surrounding area to come together, worship, and pray for our community and our country.

The goals of the community service are to share the Gospel with all who attend, reach out to the community no matter the barriers, extend an invitation to join the service, and show the strength and unity of the people of our area.

This time of fellowship and worship allows an opportunity for an area ministry to be recognized. This year, the Red River Food Pantry organized by Amazing Grace Baptist Church is highlighted. Everyone who attends is encouraged to bring a canned good or food item to donate. Lists of needed food items will be circulated to area pastors. There will be an offering during the service for the ministry.

To begin a community awareness of all ministries and community services, the planning committee is asking that a short description and picture of area ministries and community services be emailed to Karen Squires at office@fmccoushatta.org or kts8_14@yahoo.com
Each picture will be used in a presentation during the service.
A community choir is being organized, and anyone who wants to join this group is welcome. Caleb Willis of Fairview Baptist Church will be gathering information for the choir. Email Caleb at musicminister@myfairviewbaptist.org

Minister Matt Endris of Fairview Baptist Church is organizing the service and is reaching out to pastors in the area. If you want to volunteer or for more information, email Bro. Matt at minister@myfairviewbaptist.org

 

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We can all learn a lesson from Ms. Annie Barfield. Even at the age of 100, Ms. Barfield made sure to vote in the Gubernatorial Election. This is Ms. Annie’s picture for the primary election. Note that she came in to vote. Nothing was keeping her away. Hopefully, she will take a selfie as she votes during early voting starting this Friday.

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The Journals congratulates Kayla Hillman for winning the latest American Bank High School Football Pickers Contest. There is a check for $100 on the way to Kayla.

And the Journal has another $100 waiting for some lucky Red River Parish reader. All you have to do is CLICK HERE to enter this week’s contest. Do the best job of selecting the winners of ten area high school football games and the prize is yours.

The High School Football Pickers Contest is sponsored by American Bank, Farm Pro Feed and Supplies, the York Chop, Better Finance, Beard’s Automotive NAPA, Pathway Tire, and Tyler Insurance Agency.

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By Chloe Spradley

As another exciting football season nears the end, the Riverdale Rebels finish up with an impressive 9-1 record for the regular season. Coaches Denver Williams, Nathan Edie, and Brennan Edie stepped into new roles this year as they led the team to one victory after another. As this year’s regular season comes to a close, we turn our attention to the finishing statistics for the season.

2023 Regular season stats
OFFENSE
Passing:
Huddleston – 34/66 656 yds, 11 TDs, 1 INT
Hearold – 0/1 0 yds
Breedlove – 0/1 0yds

Receiving:
Guillory – 11 catches, 302 yds, 5 TDs
Williams – 9 catches, 172 yds, 3 TDs
Almond – 3 catches, 74 yds, 2 TDs
Barrett – 7 catches, 59 yds
Windham – 1 catch, 13 yds, 1 TD
Carlisle – 2 catches, 2 yds

Rushing:
Guillory – 50 carries, 662 yds, 10 TDs
Huddleston – 54 carries, 558 yds, 7 TDs, 2 fumbles
Williams – 45 carries, 426 yds, 5 TDs, 2 fumbles
Barrett – 19 carries, 119 yds, 1 TD
Almond – 13 carries, 100 yds, 5 TDs
Carlisle – 1 carry, 44 yds, 1 TD
Givens – 3 carries, 16 yds, 1 fumble
Hillman – 2 carries, 8 yds, 1 TD
Dortlon – 11 carries, 5 yds
C. Dabbs – 1 carry, 1 yd, 1 fumble
Gates – 2 bad snaps, -24 yds, 1 fumble
Hearold – 7 carries, -31 yds
SEASON – 211 carries, 1,867 yds, 30 TDs, 7 fumbles

DEFENSE
Almond – 32 solo, 44 assists, 3 sacks (28 TFL), 1 INT, 1 forced fumble, 3 fumble recoveries, 1 TD
Huddleston – 27 solo, 31 assists, 1 sack (10 TFL), 1 forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries
Williams – 29 solo, 22 assists (8 TFL), 1 INT, 1 forced fumble
Barrett – 16 solo, 20 assists, 3 sacks (16 TFL), 2 INT, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 1 TD
Hillman – 14 solo, 20 assists, 3 sacks (19 TFL), 1 forced fumble
Guillory – 19 solo, 14 assists (1 TFL), 3 INT, 1 fumble recovery, 2 TDs
Carlisle – 14 solo, 18 assists (4 TFL), 2 forced fumbles
Windham – 12 solo, 11 assists, 2 sacks (10 TFL), 1 INT, 1 fumble recovery
Gates – 2 solo, 12 assists, 1 sack (3 TFL), 1 forced fumble
Givens – 9 solo, 3 assists
Hearold – 1 solo, 4 assists, 1 sack (1 TFL)
Gryder – 2 solo, 3 assists, 1 sack (2 TFL)
Dortlon – 1 assist
C. Dabbs – 1 assist

SPECIAL TEAMS
Williams – 7 punts, 257 yds (36.7 yds/punt)
Guillory – 9 punt returns, 350 yds (38.9 yds/return), 3 TDs

Many of our players qualified for post season awards this year, and we are so proud of everything they have accomplished:

OVERALL DISTRICT MVP – Kyle Guillory
CO-OFFENSIVE MVP – Ryder Huddleston
CO-DEFENSIVE MVP – Hayden Hillman
ALL-DISTRICT –
#2 Ashton Almond
#5 Kyle Guillory
#6 Landen Barrett
#7 Ryder Huddleston
#8 Kaidyn Williams
#53 Logan Gryder
#77 Jaxon Gates
#99 Hayden Hillman

Congratulations, guys!

“To say that Denver and I are proud of these young men is an understatement. They have all worked extremely hard to get to this point, and deserve all the honors they receive,” said Coach Nathan.

Whether the season concludes with end-of-season playoffs or simply just marks the end of the road, the journey is filled with a rollercoaster of emotions and unforgettable moments. Fortunately for our Rebels, the journey is not over yet! Because of their hard work and determination this season, they have secured a place in the playoffs this year. After a week off last week, the Rebels will take on Briarfield Academy in a much anticipated game . Let’s fill the stands this Friday night (November 3rd) to support our Rebels in their journey to the championship!

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Why this petition matters

Started by Travon Jones
The fight to finish out the season is because it’ll give the athletes an outlet for the troubles times we’re facing. This is a life changing decision we feel we should have a say in. With us canceling the remaining games there will be a lot of missed opportunities as well for players. We came to NSULA wanting to take big strides on and off the field. Taking one of those aspects away does more hurt than help. Now is the time to act, because tomorrow isn’t promised and our game is in a few days.

Complete The Petition Now:

https://www.change.org/p/we-want-to-finish-our-2023-season-out?fbclid=IwAR3nr3zVmf4FFu-hblx_rKQKhKwlUWmShGgzbo6iwQNWDMyR7s5cbUkPf20

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NSU Tight End Travon Jones talks in detail about the decision to suspend football for the 2023 season without player input and that 75% of the team wants to play the rest of this years games

Photo: NSU Athletics

Note: This interview was at 6:30pm, October 30, 2023.

Access the interview here.

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By Doug De Graffenried

Yesterday at Trinity Methodist Church we hosted our annual Trunk or Treat event. It was massive. There were kids everywhere, adults too.

Toward the end of the event, one of our youths came to me with a puppy. The puppy is a very young little guy. There were a group of our High School girls who were approached by a lady who said, “I’m not going home with this puppy.” The lady gave the puppy to the girls and vanished into the throng of people. You know what happened next. The girls all called their dads with the query, “Can we keep it?” Because the dads were not here, they were firm in their puppy adoption denial. Finally, one dad said, “Take the puppy to the preacher, he’ll take it.”

I took the puppy. I know the drill! The puppy has a nice puppy carrier with a soft bed inside. The puppy got warm milk and puppy food. While I’m writing this, the puppy is at the vet being checked out and given shots.

Last night, the puppy met the two other dogs occupying our home.

Rolo and Chester are not small dogs. Both are Pitbull mixes. They play rough when they play with each other. They are both terrified of this puppy. He is a little terrier mix. They are not sure what to do with him. Last night, there was sniffing, tail wagging, and lots of dog bowing. If you have not seen the bowing position of a dog wanting to play you have missed something.

The dog slept in his doggy carrier and each time he whimpered both big dogs were right there making sure I heard the puppy and tended to him. The very strange thing was that the puppy was in the bed on my pillow when I woke up this morning. I guess I have some reflex action that took care of the crying puppy during the night.

The puppy doesn’t have a name, yet. If I keep him, his name will be Nick. That’s right, since it is LSU week, I’m naming the puppy Nick Saban! If you don’t like that name, I have a puppy you can adopt and you can pick a better puppy name!

I am not a dog whisperer. Each time I have brought a dog home, I am reminded that my life was broken down on the side of life’s road, a savior named Jesus reached down from heaven, righted my life, and invited me to follow Him. I do love dogs and who can turn their back on a puppy? But for me it is theological.

Nick Saban (the puppy) reminds me of being lifted out of my lost condition and finding a home where I am loved.

Has Jesus rescued you?

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This event was postponed due to weather. It is now scheduled for Thursday, November 2. Times and events remain the same.

Red River baseball teams will have a Halloween scrimmage TODAY. The catch–the teams will play in Halloween costumes!

The Junior High squad plays at 4pm and the varsity begins at 5:30pm.

Admission is only $5.

There will be a bounce house and carnival games. You can participate in a cake walk for $2. Or how about pie your favorite administrator in the face for $2 a throw. There will also be concession for sell. 

The Red River Baseball Dugout Club is sponsoring the event.

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By: Glynn Harris

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Commission is expected to vote at their November meeting on whether our state will schedule a hunting season for black bears in 2024-25.

There are those, especially hunters and hunting camp and other property owners in parishes bordering the Mississippi River, who welcome the possibility of scheduling a hunting season for bears. They have grown tired of seeing hunting stands, feeders and camps damaged or destroyed by what they consider nuisance animals. They also point to the fact that bear numbers especially in that part of the state continue to grow.

On the flip side, there are animal rights activists and others who hate the thought of our resident bears being hunted. What the Commission decides will dictate which of the two groups gets what they prefer.
OK, let’s assume you are a proponent of bear hunting in Louisiana, your name gets drawn to enable you to hunt bears. What if you get one? What will you do with it? Process it yourself or take it to a taxidermist? I talked with a taxidermist friend about his thoughts on processing a bear.
“There’s a good bit more work involved. Most folks who bring in a bear want a half body mount, full body mount or a bearskin rug. This involves skinning out the feet, the toes and front legs. It takes more time because of the size. They make beautiful mounts; we have done several brought in from out of state”, he said.

Comments I read concerning preparing and eating bear meat differ as much as the pro-hunt/no hunt parties.

“Bear meat is nasty”, said one. “Bear meat is wonderful”, another counters. “Just treat it like pork. I have eaten every bear I’ve killed and turned it into roasts, breakfast sausage, Italian sausage and prepared on the smoker,” a fan of eating bear added.
Google has much to say about bear meat for food. “Bears are known to carry the disease trichinosis, like pork. To prevent getting it, killing the trichinosis in the meat is as simple as making sure the meat hits 160 degrees when cooking.”

Other comments I found on the Internet are interesting…“Stuff like chili, tamales, shredded bear, burgers, tacos and stew are going to make you love bear meat more and more.”
Another writes, “The best steaks come from the loin, aka, backstrap. You can cut several large roasts from the front and hind quarters and reserve the rest for stew meat and/or grind into burger.”
Here’s another thing to consider. Peterson Hunting magazine has this to add to the pro/con of eating bear meat. “It pays to consider their diet. Bears shot in the fall eat wild berries and in spring, they feed on grass; it’s like they’re grain fed. Perhaps only dumpster bears, scavenging on the soiled scraps of what we humans eat should be avoided.”

I would conclude that bears that have grown fat on corn when they rip into a corn feeder, should provide a better taste than the dumpster divers.

The jury is still out. Some folks like to eat bear meat; others wouldn’t touch it. If you are selected to hunt bear and you get one but you can’t relish the thought of eating one, here’s a comment I read from a guy who doesn’t plan to eat bear meat and who might have trouble getting along with folks.

“Give the meat to neighbors you don’t like.”

FISHING REPORT

BLACK BAYOU – No report. Water is low. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.

BUSSEY BRAKE – Some big bass to over 9 pounds have been caught on fake frogs and spinner baits around the brush. The crappie are scattered around the brush. Bream have slowed. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707.

OUACHITA RIVER –Crappie fishing has improved in 10-12 foot water on shiners or jigs with better fishing up the bayou. Bass are fair in the cuts on shad imitations. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE D’ARBONNE – With a little current as the result of Claiborne being lowered, fishing overall has improved. Bass have been fair to good early mornings around the grass on topwater lures with swim baits and soft plastics later around secondary points. Crappie are best along the channel edges fishing 8 feet deep in 12-14 foot water. Bream are slow but catfish continue to be caught fishing cold worms and night crawlers off the banks. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE CLAIBORNE – The lake is down some seven feet as the result of the drawdown. Bass fishing has been good early mornings on topwater and spinner baits. Later in the day jigs and spoons are working best. Stripers and hybrid stripers are still biting in fairly shallow water hitting topwater lures. Fish in the 7-8 pound range are coming in. Boats can be launched at the state park at this time. Some reports of crappie being caught as well around submerged brush on shiners and jigs. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.

CANEY LAKE – Night fishing for bass has been producing fairly well on dark spinners and soft plastics. They are fair to good early mornings on topwater lures with square bill crank baits, spinners fished along the grass lines and soft plastics working best later. Some bass are schooling and hitting shad imitations. Crappie have been best around the deeper tops on shiners or jigs. Bream are slow. For information contact Caney Lake Landing at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfishing has been good. Crappie fishing has improved around the boat slips with better fishing on the south end of the lake. No report on bass. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

LAKE YUCATAN – No report. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

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The Gubernatorial General Election will be held on Saturday, November 18. The purpose of a general election is to have run-offs for any races in the preceding primary election in which no candidate receives more than 50% of the total votes. 

For this election, there are statewide races for Secretary of State, Attorney General, and Treasurer. Locally, District 4 of the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) seat will be decided. There are also four proposed amendments to the State Constitution. 

Early voting begins November 3 and runs through November 11 (closed November 5 and November 11).
Voting will take place at the Registrar’s Office in the Red River Parish Courthouse from 8:30am until 6pm. 

You may also choose to vote by absentee ballot. The deadline to request a mail in ballot is November 14 by 4:30pm. You can request a ballot through the Voter Portal or in writing through the Registrar’s Office. The deadline for the Registrar to receive a mail ballot is November 17 by 4:30pm. 

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