Month: May 2023

Contract awarded for study of $105 million ballpark complex proposal

/ Megan Lowe
FIRST STEPS:  A baseball stadium and (far right) 300-room hotel are in the first phase of REV Entertainment’s proposed development along Interstate 20 at the State Fair Grounds to be reviewed for feasibility by Chicago-based Baker Tilley. (Graphic by REV Entertainment)

By TONY TAGLAVORE, Journal Sports 

As expected, the City of Shreveport has chosen the Chicago-based firm Baker Tilly to conduct a feasibility study regarding REV Entertainment’s multi-purpose stadium and entertainment project, proposed for the Louisiana State Fair Grounds.

The decision was announced Thursday by city officials. The city expects Baker Tilly’s work to take approximately nine months to complete after the contract is formally awarded.

Tuesday, the Shreveport-Bossier Journal was the first to report that a choice would be announced by the end of this week, and the choice would likely be Baker Tilly, which has locations in 20 states and does business globally.

The results of Baker Tilly’s study will likely play a significant role in the city deciding if it will move forward with REV’s project.

Shreveport Chief Administrative Officer Tom Dark told the Journal he expects a contract to be signed next month. The cost for Baker Tilly’s services is anticipated to be approximately $150,000.

Four companies submitted Requests For Proposals to provide their consulting services. The selection committee, which met Tuesday, included Mayor Tom Arceneaux, Dark, Director of Finance Sherricka Fields Jones, and Shreveport Parks and Public Assembly director Shelly Ragle.

Contact Tony at SBJTonyT@gmail.com

Thursday’s baseball scoreboard; today’s schedule 

/ Megan Lowe
(Photo by KELSEY CHANLER, Louisiana Tech)

College Baseball  

Thursday’s scores  

C-USA Tournament   

Middle Tennessee 7, Louisiana Tech 6 

Southland Tournament 

New Orleans 4, Northwestern State 3 

SWAC Tournament 

Grambling 7, Southern U. 3 

SEC Tournament 

Arkansas 5, LSU 4 

Today’s games 

C-USA Tournament at Houston  

Louisiana Tech vs. Charlotte, 2 p.m. 

Southland Tournament at Lake Charles, La. 

Northwestern State vs. McNeese, 2:30 p.m. 

SWAC Tournament at Atlanta 

Grambling vs. Southern-Bethune-Cookman winner, 6 p.m. 

SEC Tournament at Hoover, Alabama 

LSU vs. Texas A&M, 3 p.m. 

Seven Shreveport players named to 1-4A baseball first team

/ Megan Lowe

JOURNAL SPORTS 

Northwood placed five players and Evangel two on the first team of the 2023 1-4A All-District baseball team selected by league coaches. 

The Falcons, who finished the season tied for first with North DeSoto, had sophomore pitchers Jack Carlisle and Christian Blackmon, sophomore utility player Jaxon Bentzler, junior outfielder Tucker McCabe and senior Cayne Little at second base. Northwood finished the season 29-10 overall and 6-1 in district.  

The Eagles were represented by junior first baseman Peyton Fulghum, who hit .430 on the season with 25 RBI, and senior outfielder Kody Jackson who had a .481 average and drove in 27 runs. ECA was 13-22 overall and 5-2 in district.  

North DeSoto swept individual honors with senior pitcher Braden Richardson being named Pitcher of the Year and Player of the Year. Coach Bo Odom was named the Coach of the Year for leading the Griffins to a 28-10 overall mark and 6-1 in district.

Here is the complete list of the 1-4A All-District team: 

First team 

P – Braden Richardson, North DeSoto, Sr. 

P – Brody Bower, Minden, Jr. 

P – Jack Carlisle, Northwood, So. 

P – Christian Blackmon, Northwood, So. 

C – Robert Ashley, North DeSoto, Sr. 

1B – Peyton Fulghum, Evangel, Jr. 

2B – Cayne Little, Northwood, Sr. 

3B – Kaleb Gibson, North DeSoto, Sr. 

SS – Kam Mangum, North DeSoto, Sr. 

OF – Sam Odom, North DeSoto, Sr. 

OF – Kody Jackson, Evangel, Sr. 

OF – JaKobe Jackson, Minden, Jr. 

OF – Tucker McCabe, Northwood, Jr. 

DH – Eli Morris, North DeSoto, Sr. 

Util – Brandon Wilson, Minden, Sr. 

Util – Tryston Hopper, North DeSoto, Jr. 

Util – Jaxon Bentzler, Northwood, So.  

Pitcher of the Year – Braden Richardson, North DeSoto, Sr. 

Most Valuable Player – Braden Richardson, North DeSoto, Sr.  

Coach of the Year – Bo Odom, North DeSoto 

Second team  

Pitchers: Jace Gill, Evangel, Sr.; Kaleb Carter, North DeSoto, Jr.; Jaxon Smith, Minden, Fr.; Landon Martin, Evangel, Fr.  

Catcher – Brendan Burns, Northwood, Sr.  

1B – Elliot Sheppard, Minden, Sr.  

2B – Brody Turnipseed, Evangel, Fr.  

3B – Hutson Herron, Northwood, Jr.  

SS – Bryson Ranger, Minden, So.  

Outfielders – Hayden Phipps, Northwood, Jr.; Cole Cory, North DeSoto, So.; Landyn Huddleston, Minden, So.  

DH – Reni Mason, North DeSoto, So.; Luke Bloxum, Northwood, Sr.; Mason Welch, Northwood, Sr.; Caleb Roles, North DeSoto, Jr. 

Final 2023 Standings
DISTRICT   1-4A Dist. All
Northwood 6-1 29-10
North DeSoto 6-1 28-10
Minden 5-2 18-14
Evangel 5-2 13-22
Huntington 3-4 9-16
Woodlawn 1-5 3-9
Bossier 1-6 1-15
BTW 0-6 0-7

A shot in the arm for Lake Claiborne and fishing in north Louisiana

/ Megan Lowe

She’s old, gotten fairly long in the tooth and like most of us, we tend to slow down once this happens to us. There is hope, however, for one of this area’s favorite lakes, Lake Claiborne.

I was fortunate to live in Homer when the lake was constructed and watched water begin trickling over the spillway half a century ago indicating that at long last the lake was finally what it was designed to be, a brand-new 6,400-acre body of water that would provide recreational opportunities not only for the folks living in Claiborne Parish but around north Louisiana as well.

I found a lot on the Beaver Creek branch of the lake, put my money down and purchased the lot so I could enjoy what this new lake had to offer, and boy, did it offer some good stuff.

After purchasing the lot, clearing it off, I did something then I couldn’t think of doing now. With the help of friends, I built a pier and boat house where I kept my ski boat and fishing boat and there weren’t many afternoons after work that I was not out there taking my kids skiing and searching for some of the best fishing holes.

One particular hot spot for bass was a row of green willows that grew in the middle of Beaver Creek just a long cast from my pier. This was one of the hottest spots on the lake to ease up early morning before the sun began to peak over the distant trees to the row of willows, then cast out a Tiny Torpedo next to the greenery. I’ve had successful fishing trips since but nothing to me was more fun than being close enough to be able to glance over my shoulder at my boat house, cast the lure and watch a bass explode on it. Man, that was some genuine fun.        

I eventually moved from Homer, sold my lot and my trips back to the lake became fewer and further between and it was just as well because the red-hot fishing Claiborne had offered was starting to wane. The lake began acting like most lakes with some age on them as vegetation died away and things just weren’t the same any longer.

Something has happened to this half-a-century-old lake over the past few years. First off, the Lake Commission arranged to purchase and release in the lake a species of bass that would hopefully add a shot in the arm to the lake, Tiger bass. Genetically, they’re a special combination of native largemouth and those of the Florida strain that, while not having the potential of growing as large as pure Florida’s, tend to be more aggressive and more likely to strike a lure.

I recently visited with Fisheries Manager for Northwest Louisiana for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Jeff Sibley, who is responsible for the management of Lake Claiborne.

“In addition to the Tiger bass that have been released in the lake over the past five years or so, our department is also releasing pure Florida bass which may not be as easy to catch but have the potential of growing quite big,” Sibley said.

Another shot in the arm for Claiborne took place a few weeks ago when the Major League Fishing circuit was in Louisiana fishing on Caney Lake and Bussey Brake. This group has a habitat project they fund on lakes in the states where their tournaments are held.

“They choose a lake not on the tournament circuit and this year they chose Claiborne and contributed some $25,000 to improve the fishing habitat. Special fish attracting structures were put together and placed in the lake in several locations, mainly around the State Park with coordinates available so anglers could locate the structures that should attract fish,” Sibley said.

Time will tell if these “shots in the arm” will return Lake Claiborne to one that anglers will be hitting more frequently with the real possibility of bringing in bragging-sized fish.

Contact Glynn at glynnharris37@gmail.com

Does he have an unfair advantage?

/ Megan Lowe

Over the past couple of years, there’s been some controversy with a certain professional angler having an unfair advantage. Today we’ll look at this particular angler who is at the root of this controversy. He’s a guy who is not a cheater, but an angler who takes advantage of how the rules of the game are written. He’s an angler, fishing at the highest level with both B.A.S.S. and Major League Fishing, who has had a lot of success doing it his way. 

The angler we’re talking about is Keith Poche. Keith was raised in Natchitoches, attended Natchitoches Central High School and after graduation went on to play football at Troy State University. After a knee injury, Keith decided to walk away from football and pick up a rod and reel. Even though he grew up fishing the banks of Cane River, he decided to take his fishing to another level and pursue a career as a professional angler. 

In 2014, Keith qualified to fish his first Bassmaster Classic, held on the Red River out of Shreveport, where he finished third overall. To say Keith has had “a little success” is an understatement. He’s had 46 top 50 finishes, 21 top 20’s, and 7 top 10’s, with a few victories mixed in. 

A few seasons ago, Keith made a decision to fish out of a custom-built aluminum boat that allowed him to get into areas that other anglers could not. He did not want the fully-wrapped fiberglass boat that 98 percent of the professional anglers use.

His competition was not happy with his having such an advantage with his custom boat. After several events, protests were made and there were many attempts to have him disqualified with the way he was accessing backwater areas. This special boat, built to his specifications, allowed him to gain access into backwater areas holding bass that had zero pressure and, in some cases, had never seen a bait before. 

As I’ve said in past articles, anglers are a fickle bunch and hate it when one guy figures something out they did not. Keith figured out quickly that this was his niche, how he could have success without breaking any rules. Now he obviously pushes the envelope, but he never violates a written rule. Still anglers and officials knew something had to be done to “level the playing field.” One rule implemented a couple of years ago was that whatever boat you start the season with, is the same boat you must fish out of in all the tournaments. 

But here’s what’s amazing — these same anglers complaining are not recognizing that Keith is at a huge disadvantage when tournaments are held on large bodies of water like the Great Lakes. His small custom boat with a 90-horsepower engine is not conducive for fishing the larger bodies of water, putting him at a distinct disadvantage. Keith is restricted on how far he can go compared to the guys running 20- to 21-foot boats with 250 horsepower engines.

Keith has never complained about being at a disadvantage when the tour reaches these massive lakes. He just puts his head down and tries to make the best of it. Not sure if it’s just a coincidence, but no one is complaining about Keith’s small aluminum boat unless he is at or near the top of the leader board.

The most recent issue came this month at the Toledo Bend B.A.S.S. Open Series where Keith ran up the lake and gained access into an area other anglers could not reach. He finished 29th in this event, but a protest was made on the area and how Keith gained access. 

This is a continuing story that I will make sure to monitor as Keith and his lawyers, along with B.A.S.S. officials, are working together to try and come to a mutual agreement on what’s allowed and not allowed. One thing is for sure: look for some major rule changes at B.A.S.S. for the upcoming 2024 season to take away Keith’s advantage.

Until next week, good luck, good fishing and make sure to wear sunscreen and good protective clothing. No one is immune to skin cancer like Melanoma.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

Remembering Ruby Eastridge Keener

/ JSLLC

Funeral Services to celebrate the life of Ruby Eastridge Keener, 98, will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 26, 2023, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Burial to follow the service at Campground Cemetery, Bienville, Louisiana. Officiating the services will be Pastor Randy Ziegler. 

Ruby was born May 21, 1925, in Bienville, Louisiana, to Barney Lemon Mosley and Anna Lou Hennigan Mosley. She went to be with the Lord on May 22, 2023, in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Ruby was a woman of God who lived her life for the Lord. She attended Waller Baptist Church for 60 years until she moved to South Bossier Baptist Church. She would go to Sunday school and was a part of the Pioneer Club, which would go on different types of trips. Ruby was an amazing cook who loved to feed her family and friends. She could spend hours talking to her family. She absolutely loved her grandchildren and would do anything for them. Ruby was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and sister who will be greatly missed.  

Ruby is preceded in death by her parents; husbands, James F. Eastridge, and W.T. Keener, Jr.; and brothers, Hagen, Stanley, and Max. She is survived by her son, Ron Eastridge and wife, Sarah; grandsons, Ronald Dean Eastridge, Jr., and Jimmy Mallahan; great-grandchildren, Kevin, Kourtney, and Kamron; great-great-grandchild, Lillieanna Rose; and brother, Larry Mosley.

Honoring Ruby as pallbearers will be Randy Wiggins, Dawson Peal, Burt Storti, Jimmy Mallahan, Ron Eastridge, Jr., and Steven Mosley.

Remembering Nancy Henslee Henderson

/ JSLLC

Mrs. Nancy Henslee Henderson of Shreveport passed away on Monday, May 22, 2023, at age 78, after a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Nancy was born on November 30, 1944, to Martha and Walter Henslee in Galveston, Texas, where she graduated from Ball High School in 1962. After two years at Wellesley College, she married Ralph, her life’s companion of nearly 59 years. Several years and two children later she completed her Bachelor of Arts at Centenary College. She went on to earn her CPA and worked as Accounting Manager for Barksdale Federal Credit Union until retiring in 2003.

Throughout the years, Nancy showed her love of Christ through her devotion to family and her dedication to the ministry of her church. In 1964 Nancy married fellow Galvestonian, Ralph J. Henderson, Jr. The couple were proud parents to two children, Jonathan and Pamela. Nana particularly adored her six grandchildren and loved following their journeys and cheering them on in life. She served the church community in many ways over the years—directing children’s choirs, producing the church newsletter, serving as a deacon and elder, and joining the prayer group to lift others in prayer.

Over the years, Nancy shared her gift of music singing with the Shreveport Choral Ensemble, in Gilbert & Sullivan Society productions, and most recently with The Singing Seniors. Of all her vocal offerings, she most valued singing to the Lord with the choir in worship. She also enjoyed reading, needle crafts, games with family, and traveling. The family would like to extend special thanks to the medical professionals and caregivers who worked to give her quality of life in her final years.

Nancy was preceded in death by both parents and her brother, Lee W. Henslee, III. Her memory will be cherished by her husband, Ralph J. Henderson, Jr., and her children, Jonathan Henderson (Leigh) of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Pamela Leach (Jeffrey) of York, Pennsylvania. She is also survived by her sisters Sarah Buehrer and Frances Arnold, as well as grandchildren: John Parker Henderson (Mallory), Lucas Henderson (Haley), Hanna Meg Leach, Kay Ellen Henderson, Meryl Henderson, and Juliana Leach.

A family graveside service was held at Forest Park Cemetery. A larger celebration of life will be held at Broadmoor Presbyterian Church on Saturday, July 8, 2023, 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Broadmoor Presbyterian Church or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.

Bossier announces opening and schedule of city pools

/ JSLLC

JOURNAL STAFF

Bossier City Parks and Recreation says, “If you want to stay cool, come take a dip in our pools.” Bossier City Pools are safe, fun and open for the summer.

Mike Woods at 2200 Dennis Street will be open this Saturday (May 27) from 12-5 p.m. along with the pool at Meadowview Park (4208 Shed Road). Both pools will be closed on Monday (May 29) for Memorial Day but will reopen on Tuesday, May 30.

Bossier City Pools will be open Mon.-Sat. from 12-5 p.m. until August. Also remember to take your children to the city’s Spray Parks to cool off as well. Spray Parks are located at Brownlee Park (4307 Old Brownlee Road), Hooter Park (1520 Hooter Drive) and Mitchell Park (1518 Cox Street).

Shreveport Police Department announces summer camp dates

/ JSLLC

JOURNAL STAFF

The Shreveport Police Department is holding its annual summer camps designed to foster great relationships between police officers and children.

2023 Summer Camps:

  • Fishing……………………..May 27
  • Girls’ Are Butterflies………June 12-13
  • Boys’……………………….June 26-28
  • Law & Youth………………July 10-12
  • You Got Game Basketball…July 17-21

These events are held annually and are orchestrated by the Neighborhood Assistance Team Coordinators and the Community Oriented Policing Bureau.

Please call COPB or visit shreveportla.gov to sign up.

Notice of Death – May 25, 2023

/ JSLLC

Ponder R. McInnis
February 20, 1940 — May 17, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.
Celebration of Life: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.

Mickey Haydel
August 6, 1934 — May 3, 2023
Celebration of Life Memorial: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.

Michael Wayne Housley
August 26, 1956 — May 17, 2023

Lavern Wyatt Tanner
August 22, 1953 — May 19, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Stonewall Baptist Church, 807 Eatman Street, Bossier City.

Eva Dean Mathews
February 3, 1958 — May 21, 2023
Viewing: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-5:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, 6915 W. 70th Street, Shreveport.

Nancy Henderson
November 30, 1944 — May 22, 2023
Celebration of Life: Saturday, July 8, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Broadmoor Presbyterian Church, Shreveport.

John Everett Speer
December 23, 1956 — May 22, 2023

Joseph David Ferguson
January 20, 1947 — May 23, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Converse Cemetery, Converse.

Mary Geneva Hollenshead
May 28, 1935 — May 23, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Lebanon Church, 546 White Oak Road, Haynesville.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Lebanon Church, 546 White Oak Road, Haynesville.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:30-11:30 a.m. at Lebanon Cemetery, 546 White Oak Road, Haynesville.

Judy Patterson
September 2, 1950 — May 20, 2023
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Centuries Memorial Cemetery, Mansfield Road, Shreveport.

Harvey Smith
October 4, 1950 — May 13, 2023
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Carver Cemetery, 498 Kennie Road, Shreveport.

Bernice Williams
September 28, 1949 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at New Bethel MBC, 3300 Greenwood Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Cemetery.

Nancy Evelyn Kairschner
July 11, 1942 — May 18, 2023

Elizabeth Gertrude Paul
July 20, 1950 — May 18, 2023

Danny Melton Sexton
August 18, 1948 — May 22, 2023

Paul Couter Colgin
March 2, 1932 — May 22, 2023

Linda Wiggins
September 28, 1949 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Bright Star Baptist Church, 3330 Meriwether Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Starlight B.C., Greenwood.

CD Davis, Sr.
February 4, 1936 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates.
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Union Forbing Cemetery.

Ella Nash Jones
March 15, 1950 — May 18, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-5:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Carver Memorial Park Cemetery, 498 Kennie Road, Shreveport.

Lamar Edward Savannah
November 7, 1937 — May 20, 2023
Family Hour: Friday, May 26, 2023, 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at White’s Temple Church of God in Christ, 3898 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, 6915 W. 70th Street, Shreveport.

Henry Jackson, Jr.
August 23, 1954 — May 21, 2023
Family Hour: Friday, June 2, 2023, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Greater Hope Baptist Church, 4355 Greenwood Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, June 3, 2023, following service at Mt. Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery, 214 Ebenezer Road, Elm Grove.

Arnold Dale Norman
January 29, 1933 — May 20, 2023
Visitation: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.

Ruby Eastridge Keener
May 21, 1925 — May 22, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Interment: Friday, May 26, 2023, following service at Camp Ground Cemetery, Bienville.

Phillip Collier
May 28, 1945 — May 12, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.

Thelma Irene ‘Jackie’ Gray
September 30, 1941 — April 28, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1315 Ringgold Avenue, Coushatta.

Tommy ‘TC’ Michwich
July 17, 1951 — May 19, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.

Billy Grey Rockett
July 12, 1939 — May 21, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 10, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Boone Funeral Home and Crematory, 2156 Airline Drive, Bossier City.

Amy Sue Coates
December 17, 1959 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 2:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.

Edward Allen Milgate
June 17, 1951 — May 15, 2023
Graveside Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Forest Park West Cemetery, 4000 Meriwether Road, Shreveport.

Michael Phillip Collier
June 17, 1951 — May 15, 2023
Graveside Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Keithville.

Delores Brown
November 2, 1955 — May 12, 2023
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Willow Chute Baptist Church, 2645 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Shreveport.

William Threadgill
April 30, 1940 — May 13, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Providence Memorial Cemetery.

Bill Bates
March 22, 1962 — May 22, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.

Glenna DeMoss
September 24, 1934 — May 19, 2023
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Interment: Friday, May 26, 2023, following service at Beech Grove UMC Cemetery, Spearsville.

Bert Woodley Mercer
June 9, 1926 — May 21, 2023
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Friday, May 26, 2023, following service at Mt. Zion Cemetery, Mooringsport.

Dennis Ray Bouck
March 24, 1946 — May 14, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City.

Antoine DeVonn Thomas
August 1, 1975 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-8:00 p.m. at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, 2200 Laurel Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Russell Road Church of Christ, 1852 Russell Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Mattie Ruth Barnes-Thedford
February 9, 1953 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-8:00 p.m. at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, 2200 Laurel Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Mary Evergreen Baptist Church, 420 East 85th Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Emmett Howell Cantwell
October 14, 1931 — May 16, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 9:30-10:00 a.m. at The Oaks of Louisiana Towers Ballroom, 200 Majestic Oaks Drive, Shreveport.
Celebration of Life: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at The Oaks of Louisiana Towers Ballroom, 200 Majestic Oaks Drive, Shreveport.

Bonita Marie Dominick Alexander
April 12, 1967 — May 14, 2023
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Little Zion Baptist Church, Cottonport.

Barry Wayne Teague
October 13, 1953 — May 2, 2023
Memorial Service: Friday, June 2, 2023, 10:30-11:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Minden, 301 Pennsylvania Avenue, Minden.

Leland ‘Lee’ Eugene Kelly
November 13, 1946 — April 26, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 24, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Eppes Cemetery, Shreveport.

The Shreveport-Bossier Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $90. Contact your funeral provider or SBJNewsLa@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to SBJNewsLa@gmail.com)

 

 

Origin Bancorp, Inc. announces transfer to NYSE

/ JSLLC
Drake Mills, Chairman, President and CEO of Origin Bancorp, and Lance Hall, President and CEO of Origin Bank, joins Terry Bradshaw and members of the Origin team as they rang the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange on Monday. (photo courtesy of NYSE)

Origin Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: OBNK) (“Origin”), the parent company of Origin Bank, announced May 9 that it is transferring the listing of its common stock to the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”). Origin’s common stock is expected to begin trading on the NYSE on Monday, May 22, 2023, under the new ticker symbol of “OBK”.

Origin expects its common stock to continue to trade on Nasdaq until the close of the market on May 19, 2023.

“We are excited to take this next step in our journey as a public company. Since our founding in 1912, we have been committed to providing meaningful value to our employees, customers, communities and shareholders,” said Drake Mills, chairman, president and CEO of Origin. “As a sophisticated and agile community bank serving communities across Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi, we look forward to joining many of the world’s leading and most prestigious companies that trade on the NYSE and are excited to leverage the NYSE platform and trading model for the benefit of our shareholders.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Origin to the New York Stock Exchange,” said John Tuttle, Vice Chair, NYSE Group. “As a highly-respected community bank that emphasizes unwavering support and loyalty to its employees, customers, communities and shareholders, Origin is a welcome addition to the NYSE community of the world’s greatest companies.”

About Origin Bancorp, Inc.
Origin Bancorp, Inc. is a financial holding company headquartered in Ruston, Louisiana. Origin’s wholly owned bank subsidiary, Origin Bank, was founded in 1912 in Choudrant, Louisiana. Deeply rooted in Origin’s history is a culture committed to providing personalized, relationship banking to businesses, municipalities, and personal clients to enrich the lives of the people in the communities it serves. Origin provides a broad range of financial services and currently operates 60 banking centers located in Dallas/Fort Worth, East Texas, Houston, North Louisiana and Mississippi. For more information, visit http://www.origin.bank

Despite PGA stumble, Burns upbeat as he defends Charles Schwab crown

/ Megan Lowe

JOURNAL SPORTS

Shreveport product Sam Burns tees off today as the defending champion at the PGA Tour’s Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, but that’s not the only reason he’s feeling very comfortable despite last week’s missed cut at the PGA Championship.

“I think this event is extremely special to me just because I grew up going to this event as a kid and watching so many guys win here,” Burns said Wednesday. “I always thought it was such a cool golf course, and I always wanted to be a part of it. I just wanted to play in it.”

Burns cited fond memories of the 2011 win at Colonial Country Club by fellow Shreveporter David Toms, when Burns was 14 and watching outside the ropes. That wasn’t the only trip west on I-20 to this event, and last year, he joined Toms in the event’s winners’ circle with a closing round 65 and a playoff victory over his PGA pal, hometown hero Scottie Scheffler.

They are in a featured pairing, teeing off today at 8:04 on the 10th tee with Davis Riley along for the walk. Scheffler, who grew up in Highland Park in the heart of Dallas, is the tournament favorite.

Earlier this year, Burns picked up his most significant Tour win in March at the World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play Championships, down I-35 in Austin.

Burns ranks fourth on tour in strokes gained putting, but his iron play has been erratic this season. The former LSU All-American, a Calvary Baptist graduate, ranks 165th in greens in regulation and 190th in proximity to the hole.

He shot a miserable second-round 84 in trying conditions last week at the PGA Championship, finishing 14-over par and getting the weekend off.

Optimist Club of Bossier awards thousands in teacher grants

/ JSLLC

JOURNAL STAFF

Ten Bossier Parish teachers are beginning their summer on the receiving end of $10,000 in grants to make their future classroom projects for the 2023-24 school year a reality.

On Tuesday, the Optimist Club of Bossier City once again lived up to its organizational motto “A Friend of Youth,” investing in the educators that engage and inspire the nearly 23,000 students that attend Bossier Schools.

The Optimist Club Teacher Grant program enabled 56 Bossier Parish educators to submit proposals for classroom and instructional needs and 10 were chosen to receive $1,000 each. This brings the Optimist Club of Bossier City’s investment in Bossier Schools and the community to more than a half-million dollars.

Elementary school recipients are: Johnna Kunath, Meadowview; and Angi Reger, Legacy.

Middle school winners are: Courtney Feliciano, Elm Grove; Matthew Graham, Rusheon; and Elizabeth Vance, Cope.

Those receiving grants from Bossier Parish high schools include: Melanie Rosier, Airline; Michelle Doolittle, Bossier High Virtual School; Katelin Breaux, Bossier Parish School for Technology and Innovative Learning (BPSTIL); and Julie Malone, BPSTIL.

And being awarded on behalf of Bossier Schools’ Talented Arts Program is Deanna Glaze.

“For more than 30 years, the Optimist Club of Bossier City has shown unwavering support for our teachers and made a tremendous investment in student learning that is unparalleled,” said Bossier Schools Superintendent Mitch Downey. “We could not be more grateful for our partnership with the Optimists and the longevity of the teacher grant program that has literally impacted tens of thousands of young people and contributed to their success over the past three decades.”

BPCC bats silent in season-ending losses at NJCAA Series

/ Megan Lowe
TAKING A CUT: Freshman second baseman Makinzie Stutts swings Wednesday for Bossier Parish Community College as the Lady Cavs made their first-ever NJCAA World Series appearance.   (Photo courtesy BPCC Athletics)

JOURNAL SPORTS 

OXFORD, Alabama – Bossier Parish Community College’s bats went silent here Wednesday and the Lady Cavaliers season ended at the NJCAA Softball World Series in a pair of shutout losses. 

The 11th-seeded Lady Cavaliers dropped their first game to sixth-seed Grayson College 2-0 and were eliminated from the tournament following a 5-0 defeat at the hands of No. 3 seed Wallace State Wednesday night.

Freshman outfielder Piper Garcia was the only BPCC player to manage a hit on the day, getting one in each game. Her infield single in the sixth inning of the first game was the only safety managed and was the second baserunner for BPCC. Fia Tofi drew a second-inning free pass.  

BPCC pitcher Macie LaRue (15-6) kept the Lady Vikings off balance and off the scoreboard until a single and home run in the sixth inning accounted for the only runs of the game. LaRue allowed just two hits prior to the sixth, as she walked two and struck out three. 

BPCC didn’t have a baserunner in the second loss until two outs in the sixth inning when Garcia doubled to leftfield.  

Lady Cav starter Mallory Pitre (16-6) allowed five hits in three innings, getting touched up for three runs and two earned. She walked two and struck out two. Brielle Moreno finished the final four innings, allowing five hits and two earned runs, as she walked none and struck out two.  

Wallace State pitcher Emily Simon didn’t get the perfect game or a no-hitter, but she remained undefeated on the season in 17 decisions, striking out eight in her seven innings of work. The Lions improved to 52-6. 

Bossier Parish finished its historic season and first-ever trip to the national tournament at 45-17. 

Wednesday’s baseball, softball scoreboard; today’s schedule 

/ Megan Lowe
(Photo by KELSEY CHANLER, Louisiana Tech)

College Baseball  

Wednesday’s scores  

C-USA Tournament  

Louisiana Tech 13, Charlotte 8 

Southland Tournament 

Northwestern State 2, Incarnate Word 1 

SWAC Tournament  

Grambling 8, Jackson State 7  

SEC Tournament  

LSU 10, South Carolina 3 

Today’s games 

C-USA Tournament at Houston   

Louisiana Tech vs. Middle Tennessee, 12:30 p.m. 

Southland Tournament at Lake Charles, La. 

Northwestern State vs. New Orleans, 6 p.m. 

SWAC Tournament at Atlanta 

Grambling vs. Southern U., 6 p.m.  

SEC Tournament at Hoover, Alabama 

LSU vs. Arkansas, 4:30 p.m.  

College Softball   

Wednesday’s scores 

NJCAA Division I Softball World Series  

Oxford, Alabama 

Grayson College 2, BPCC 0 
Wallace State 5, BPCC 0 

June 6 appearance in Shreveport for Louisiana Tech coaches, athletic staff

/ Megan Lowe
CUMBIE DUE:  Second-year Louisiana Tech football coach Sonny Cumbie will be a guest speaker when the Bulldog Blitz event is hosted in Shreveport June 6. (Photo courtesy Louisiana Tech Athletics)

JOURNAL SPORTS

Louisiana Tech’s annual Bulldog Blitz summer tour kicks off early next month with several head coaches and administrators expected Tuesday, June 6, in Shreveport.

Tickets are on sale now for $30 and include meet-and-greet opportunities, dinner, and a cash bar at Cantina Laredo, 6535 Youree Drive in Shreveport. Doors open at 6 with a program slated for 6:30.

This summer’s Bulldog Blitz will feature head coaches Sonny Cumbie (football), Talvin Hester (Bulldog  basketball), Brooke Stoehr (Lady Techster basketball), and Lane Burroughs (baseball) as well as guest appearances by head coaches Matt Terry (golf), Amanda Stone (tennis), and Brian Johnson (track and field/cross country).

Visit www.LATechAlumni.org/Blitz23 to purchase tickets or for more information.

Remembering Lacey Brooke Oakes

/ JSLLC

Lacey Brooke Oakes departed this life to her heavenly home on Thursday, May 18, 2023. Lacey was born on March 27, 1987, in Shreveport, Louisiana, grew up in Bossier City and was known for her kind and compassionate nature.

Lacey graduated from Airline High School in 2005. She went on to further her education earning a Bachelor of Science degree in education along with numerous academic honors from Louisiana State University in Shreveport in 2016. She then began her life-long dream of being a teacher. Lacey spent the last several years dedicating her time, energy, and creativity to the students of Bossier Parish Schools where she taught theater at Airline High School. She was a gifted and inspiring teacher who went above and beyond to support and help her students discover their talents and reach their full potential.

Lacey’s greatest joy in life was being a mother to her two children, Macen and Noah. She loved nothing more than spending time with them, whether it was watching movies, going on adventures, or simply just being together. Lacey cherished every moment spent with her family.

Lacey came to know the Lord at a young age while attending Indian Hills Baptist Church. As a young adult she joined Shady Grove Baptist Church and had recently been attending First Baptist Church Haughton with her children.

Lacey possessed many gifts including performing, singing, and drawing, but she was the happiest when she could lift the spirit of others through laughter.

Those who knew Lacey will remember her for her devotion to her family, her infectious smile, her unwavering kindness, and her witty sense of humor. She could effortlessly lighten the mood and bring joy to those around her.

Lacey is survived by her daughter, Macen Nix; her son, Noah Bradshaw; her mother, Karen Loyd Avery; step-father, Randy Avery; grandmother, Marguerite Richmond Loyd; brother, Brock Oakes; uncle, Stirling Loyd and wife, Kristi; nieces, Reide and Amelia Oakes; and cousins, Dade and Emma Loyd, as well as numerous other family members.

Lacey is preceded in death by her grandfather, Darrell Meryl Loyd and her aunt, Joy Tyrell Loyd-Estep.

Honoring Lacey as pallbearers will be Noah Bradshaw, Brock Oakes, Stirling Loyd, Dade Loyd, Cliff Nix, Brian Bradshaw, and Chad Loyd.

The visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. with the service to follow at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport, Louisiana. Pastor Don Tinsley and Pastor Harrell Shelton will be officiating. Interment will follow at Hosston Cemetery in Hosston, Louisiana.

Remembering Joseph David Ferguson

/ JSLLC

January 20, 1947 — May 23, 2023

Funeral Services to celebrate the life of Joseph “Joe” David Ferguson, 76, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 27, 2023, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial to follow the service at Converse Cemetery, Converse, Louisiana. Officiating the services will be Pastor Bryan Reed.

Joe was born on January 25, 1947, in Converse, Louisiana, to Joseph Ferguson and Josephine Ezernack Ferguson. He passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Joe was a loving husband, brother, and uncle who is going to be greatly missed.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Bill Ferguson, Jimmy Ferguson, and Sammy Ferguson; and sister, Mary Jo Schmidt. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Ferguson; fur babies, Sugar B, and Roxie; sister, Virginia Sepulvado and husband, Buck; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Honoring Joe as pallbearers will be Steve Armitage, Earl Ferguson, David Schmidt, Jeff Sepulvado, Trey Sepulvado, and Jan Viet. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be James “Cricket” Collier, and Russell Jones.

BOM Presents Scholarships

/ JSLLC

BOM’s Business Development Consultant, Henry Burns, had the honor of presenting two scholarships at the Haughton High School Senior Awards Day Program. Picture 1: Congratulations to Lowrey Lain on receiving the Bossier City Lion’s Club scholarship from Henry Burns. Picture 2: Allison Marmaduke received the AJ & Mildred Burns Northwestern State University scholarship from Henry Burns. Congratulations to both scholarship recipients!

Notice of Death – May 24, 2023

/ JSLLC

Judy Patterson
September 2, 1950 — May 20, 2023
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Centuries Memorial Cemetery, Mansfield Road, Shreveport.

Harvey Smith
October 4, 1950 — May 13, 2023
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Carver Cemetery, 498 Kennie Road, Shreveport.

Bernice Williams
September 28, 1949 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at New Bethel MBC, 3300 Greenwood Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Cemetery.

Nancy Evelyn Kairschner
July 11, 1942 — May 18, 2023

Elizabeth Gertrude Paul
July 20, 1950 — May 18, 2023

Danny Melton Sexton
August 18, 1948 — May 22, 2023

Paul Couter Colgin
March 2, 1932 — May 22, 2023

Linda Wiggins
September 28, 1949 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Bright Star Baptist Church, 3330 Meriwether Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Starlight B.C., Greenwood.

CD Davis, Sr.
February 4, 1936 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates.
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Union Forbing Cemetery.

Ella Nash Jones
March 15, 1950 — May 18, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-5:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Carver Memorial Park Cemetery, 498 Kennie Road, Shreveport.

Lamar Edward Savannah
November 7, 1937 — May 20, 2023
Family Hour: Friday, May 26, 2023, 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at White’s Temple Church of God in Christ, 3898 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, 6915 W. 70th Street, Shreveport.

Henry Jackson, Jr.
August 23, 1954 — May 21, 2023
Family Hour: Friday, June 2, 2023, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Greater Hope Baptist Church, 4355 Greenwood Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, June 3, 2023, following service at Mt. Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery, 214 Ebenezer Road, Elm Grove.

Harvey Eugene ‘Biff’ Wells
May 17, 1950 — May 21, 2023

John Everett Speer
December 23, 1956 — May 22, 2023

Arnold Dale Norman
January 29, 1933 — May 20, 2023
Visitation: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.

Ruby Eastridge Keener
May 21, 1925 — May 22, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Interment: Friday, May 26, 2023, following service at Camp Ground Cemetery, Bienville.

Ethel Mary Remedies
March 16, 1927 — May 23, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many.
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond Avenue, Zwolle.
Interment: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 3:00-4:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond Avenue, Zwolle.

Stanley James Smith
July 25, 1949 — May 22, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.

Phillip Collier
May 28, 1945 — May 12, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.

Thelma Irene ‘Jackie’ Gray
September 30, 1941 — April 28, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1315 Ringgold Avenue, Coushatta.

Tommy ‘TC’ Michwich
July 17, 1951 — May 19, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.

Lacey Brooke Oakes
March 27, 1987 — May 18, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Thursday, May 25, 2023, following service at Hosston Cemetery, Hosston.

Billy Grey Rockett
July 12, 1939 — May 21, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 10, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Boone Funeral Home and Crematory, 2156 Airline Drive, Bossier City.

Amy Sue Coates
December 17, 1959 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 2:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.

Edward Allen Milgate
June 17, 1951 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Forest Park Funeral Home, 1201 Louisiana Avenue, Shreveport.
Graveside Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Forest Park West Cemetery, 4000 Meriwether Road, Shreveport.

Michael Phillip Collier
June 17, 1951 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Graveside Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Keithville.

Delores Brown
November 2, 1955 — May 12, 2023
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Willow Chute Baptist Church, 2645 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Shreveport.

William Threadgill
April 30, 1940 — May 13, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Providence Memorial Cemetery.

Bill Bates
March 22, 1962 — May 22, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.

Glenna DeMoss
September 24, 1934 — May 19, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Interment: Friday, May 26, 2023, following service at Beech Grove UMC Cemetery, Spearsville.

Bert Woodley Mercer
June 9, 1926 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Friday, May 26, 2023, following service at Mt. Zion Cemetery, Mooringsport.

Ruth L. Saucier
May 9, 1926 — May 21, 2023
Graveside Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Forest Park East Cemetery, 3700 St. Vincent Avenue, Shreveport.

Louise Stanley Youngblood
August 13, 1928 — May 19, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Airline Baptist Church, 4007 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Airline Baptist Church, 4007 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Interment: Thursday, May 25, 2023, following service at Rose-Neath Cemetery, 5185 Swan Lake Road, Bossier City.

Dennis Ray Bouck
March 24, 1946 — May 14, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City.

Antoine DeVonn Thomas
August 1, 1975 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-8:00 p.m. at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, 2200 Laurel Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Russell Road Church of Christ, 1852 Russell Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Mattie Ruth Barnes-Thedford
February 9, 1953 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-8:00 p.m. at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, 2200 Laurel Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Mary Evergreen Baptist Church, 420 East 85th Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Callie Mae Clark
February 8, 1931 — May 18, 2023
Graveside Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, 6915 W. 70th Street, Shreveport.

Emmett Howell Cantwell
October 14, 1931 — May 16, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 9:30-10:00 a.m. at The Oaks of Louisiana Towers Ballroom, 200 Majestic Oaks Drive, Shreveport.
Celebration of Life: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at The Oaks of Louisiana Towers Ballroom, 200 Majestic Oaks Drive, Shreveport.

Bonita Marie Dominick Alexander
April 12, 1967 — May 14, 2023
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Little Zion Baptist Church, Cottonport.

Barry Wayne Teague
October 13, 1953 — May 2, 2023
Memorial Service: Friday, June 2, 2023, 10:30-11:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Minden, 301 Pennsylvania Avenue, Minden.

Leland ‘Lee’ Eugene Kelly
November 13, 1946 — April 26, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 24, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Eppes Cemetery, Shreveport.

The Shreveport-Bossier Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $90. Contact your funeral provider or SBJNewsLa@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to SBJNewsLa@gmail.com)

 

CD Davis, Sr.
February 4, 1936 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates.
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Union Forbing Cemetery.

Ella Nash Jones
March 15, 1950 — May 18, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-5:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Graveside Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Carver Memorial Park Cemetery, 498 Kennie Road, Shreveport.

Lamar Edward Savannah
November 7, 1937 — May 20, 2023
Family Hour: Friday, May 26, 2023, 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at White’s Temple Church of God in Christ, 3898 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, 6915 W. 70th Street, Shreveport.

Henry Jackson, Jr.
August 23, 1954 — May 21, 2023
Family Hour: Friday, June 2, 2023, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home, 3701 Hollywood Avenue, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Greater Hope Baptist Church, 4355 Greenwood Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, June 3, 2023, following service at Mt. Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery, 214 Ebenezer Road, Elm Grove.

Harvey Eugene ‘Biff’ Wells
May 17, 1950 — May 21, 2023

John Everett Speer
December 23, 1956 — May 22, 2023

Arnold Dale Norman
January 29, 1933 — May 20, 2023
Visitation: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.

Ruby Eastridge Keener
May 21, 1925 — May 22, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Interment: Friday, May 26, 2023, following service at Camp Ground Cemetery, Bienville.

Ethel Mary Remedies
March 16, 1927 — May 23, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many.
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond Avenue, Zwolle.
Interment: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 3:00-4:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond Avenue, Zwolle.

Stanley James Smith
July 25, 1949 — May 22, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.

Phillip Collier
May 28, 1945 — May 12, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.

Thelma Irene ‘Jackie’ Gray
September 30, 1941 — April 28, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1315 Ringgold Avenue, Coushatta.

Tommy ‘TC’ Michwich
July 17, 1951 — May 19, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport.

Lacey Brooke Oakes
March 27, 1987 — May 18, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Thursday, May 25, 2023, following service at Hosston Cemetery, Hosston.

Billy Grey Rockett
July 12, 1939 — May 21, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 10, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Boone Funeral Home and Crematory, 2156 Airline Drive, Bossier City.

Amy Sue Coates
December 17, 1959 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 2:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home & Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport.

Edward Allen Milgate
June 17, 1951 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Forest Park Funeral Home, 1201 Louisiana Avenue, Shreveport.
Graveside Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Forest Park West Cemetery, 4000 Meriwether Road, Shreveport.

Michael Phillip Collier
June 17, 1951 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Graveside Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Keithville.

Delores Brown
November 2, 1955 — May 12, 2023
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Willow Chute Baptist Church, 2645 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Shreveport.

William Threadgill
April 30, 1940 — May 13, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Providence Memorial Cemetery.

Bill Bates
March 22, 1962 — May 22, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Heavenly Gates, 1339 Jewell Street, Shreveport.

Glenna DeMoss
September 24, 1934 — May 19, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Interment: Friday, May 26, 2023, following service at Beech Grove UMC Cemetery, Spearsville.

Bert Woodley Mercer
June 9, 1926 — May 21, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Friday, May 26, 2023, following service at Mt. Zion Cemetery, Mooringsport.

Ruth L. Saucier
May 9, 1926 — May 21, 2023
Graveside Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Forest Park East Cemetery, 3700 St. Vincent Avenue, Shreveport.

Louise Stanley Youngblood
August 13, 1928 — May 19, 2023
Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Airline Baptist Church, 4007 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Airline Baptist Church, 4007 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Interment: Thursday, May 25, 2023, following service at Rose-Neath Cemetery, 5185 Swan Lake Road, Bossier City.

Dennis Ray Bouck
March 24, 1946 — May 14, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City.
Memorial Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City.

Antoine DeVonn Thomas
August 1, 1975 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-8:00 p.m. at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, 2200 Laurel Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Russell Road Church of Christ, 1852 Russell Road, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Mattie Ruth Barnes-Thedford
February 9, 1953 — May 15, 2023
Visitation: Friday, May 26, 2023, 1:00-8:00 p.m. at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, 2200 Laurel Street, Shreveport.
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Mary Evergreen Baptist Church, 420 East 85th Street, Shreveport.
Interment: Saturday, May 27, 2023, following service at Lincoln Memorial Park.

Callie Mae Clark
February 8, 1931 — May 18, 2023
Graveside Service: Thursday, May 25, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, 6915 W. 70th Street, Shreveport.

Emmett Howell Cantwell
October 14, 1931 — May 16, 2023
Visitation: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 9:30-10:00 a.m. at The Oaks of Louisiana Towers Ballroom, 200 Majestic Oaks Drive, Shreveport.
Celebration of Life: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 10:00-11:00 a.m. at The Oaks of Louisiana Towers Ballroom, 200 Majestic Oaks Drive, Shreveport.

Bonita Marie Dominick Alexander
April 12, 1967 — May 14, 2023
Funeral Service: Saturday, May 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m. at Little Zion Baptist Church, Cottonport.

Barry Wayne Teague
October 13, 1953 — May 2, 2023
Memorial Service: Friday, June 2, 2023, 10:30-11:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Minden, 301 Pennsylvania Avenue, Minden.

Leland ‘Lee’ Eugene Kelly
November 13, 1946 — April 26, 2023
Memorial Service: Saturday, June 24, 2023, 10:00 a.m. at Eppes Cemetery, Shreveport.

The Shreveport-Bossier Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $90. Contact your funeral provider or SBJNewsLa@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to SBJNewsLa@gmail.com)

 

Terri Mathews really knows how to multitask 

/ JSLLC
Lunch with Harriet

By HARRIET PROTHRO PENROD

The term “multitasking” became a buzz word at the dawn of the digital age back in the mid-1960s. If you think you’re good at it, meet Terri Mathews.

“My dad always told me: ‘Terri, I’ve never met anybody who can do in half a day what takes most people a week to do.’”

Case in point: When I met up with Mathews for lunch on Monday of this week, she had already gotten her daughter off to school, set up a trade show event at the Convention Center, set up an event at a local school, met with (and booked) two clients for upcoming events AND checked out the goings-on at Festival Plaza in downtown Shreveport.

That’s quite a bit to get accomplished in one morning. Imagine running on that schedule every day.

“It’s just second nature to me,” Mathews says of her multitasking abilities. “It’s just a talent God blesses me with. I don’t let it overwhelm me. In the morning, I get up and say, ‘What do I do first.’ Then I prioritize.”

There’s a lot of prioritizing in Mathews’ life.

In addition to raising a 12-year-old daughter, she is the owner of Gumbeaux Event Productions, a partner in Rock Solid, and the chairperson of the Mudbug Madness festival – which kicks off this Thursday night and lasts through Sunday.

Gumbeaux Productions is a full-service event production company that specializes in providing services and equipment for special events throughout the Ark-La-Tex. Services include sound and lighting design and production, specialty lighting, DJ services, trade show decorating and management, event coordination, and staging and drapery.

This is Mathews’ 30th year as chairperson of the popular Mudbug Madness festival, which has filled Festival Plaza for the past 38 years – except for, of course, the COVID year.

One year after the COVID cancellation, restrictions were starting to be lifted and the Mudbug Madness organizers thought they were planning for half capacity.

“Then, two weeks before (the festival), all the restrictions were lifted,” explains Mathews. “We were scrambling to put a full festival together.”

Not only did the organizers put together a full festival, they enjoyed the event’s best year ever.

As we visit on this morning just three days before this year’s festival kickoff, Mathews’ phone continues to buzz. There are appointments to make for Gumbeaux and six requests from local TV stations for interviews in the next few days.

“Basically, this is a full-time part-time job,” she says – with a smile — of her volunteer position with Mudbug Madness.

Originally from DeSoto Parish, Mathews was a certified marketing director for shopping centers when she began volunteering as the publicity chairman for Mudbug Madness 32 years ago. When the festival’s chairman stepped down two years later, the committee asked Mathews to take over as chairperson.

It’s a daunting task, of course. As festival chairperson, Mathews is responsible for managing the planning committee and everything from overseeing advertising placements, publicity, operations, working with contractors, and on-site management for two weeks prior to the start of the event.

It’s a year-round responsibility that Mathews undertakes in addition to her other business adventures.

So why has she kept at it so long?

“I love it,” she says of the festival. “I feel like it’s my baby. If I didn’t enjoy the people I work with as a volunteer, I would have been gone.”

And Mathews did have opportunities to leave Shreveport. After starting college at Louisiana Tech, she finished at LSUS with a degree in communications and was chosen as a field consultant for Phi Mu sorority.

Her “very first grown-up job” was as marketing manager for Junior Achievement, followed by her foray into the shopping center industry. When the mall business began to go by the wayside, Mathews went to work for another event company as its marketing director.

“In the shopping center industry, I could have gone anywhere,” Mathews says of her opportunities to leave Shreveport-Bossier. “But I love it here.”

And she loves her “job” as Mudbug Madness chairperson.

There have been lows, of course – including fighting weather conditions and the occasional PR issues – but those are outnumbered by the highs.

“To be at Festival Plaza on Saturday night with wall-to-wall people,” she says, “when everybody is so happy to be there – enjoying the music, food, and atmosphere. It’s a good feeling.”

When asked to recall some of the most memorable times from the festival, Mathews laughs and says, “People meeting at Mudbug and then three years later asking if they can get married on the Main Stage. We say, ‘We had a festival and a wedding broke out.’

“And the relationships with the food vendors, artists, and bands.”

The 39th Mudbug Madness festival kicks off with Rewind – a special opening-night event with reunions of three of Shreveport’s all-time favorite bands (The Crawdads, The Boomers and Shreveport’s Papa Mali). Rewind – which will also recognize the festival sponsors and volunteers – will be held from 5-10 p.m. and is open to the public. A total of 29 bands will perform at this weekend’s event.

After the festival winds down Sunday night, Mathews and the festival committee will start planning for next year’s event.

“We work all year long,” Mathews says of the committee members. “We take only one month off.”

That break comes in June, when Mathews plans on staying busy with her “real job.”

And her family.

She and daughter Chloe love to travel together, watch movies, cook, and go to LSU women’s basketball games. And they’re usually joined by their Goldendoodle named Chandler Bing.

When asked how long she’ll continue in her role as chairperson of Mudbug Madness, she says, “Well, I’m 60 now. I’m like Cher – I’m on the ‘never can say goodbye tour.’ Maybe another five years?”

Contact Harriet at sbjharriet@gmail.com

The coolest of all summer staples

/ JSLLC
The problem with making homemade ice cream when you were a kid is it seemed to take forever to freeze.
 
For-EVVV-er.
 
I scream, you scream, we all scream if the homemade ice cream won’t freeze.
 
It was like waiting for school to let out or Christmas morning to come. Though the object is the polar opposite, waiting on ice cream to freeze is the same metaphorically as waiting for the watched pot to boil.
 
“Is it ready yet?”
 
But some things are worth waiting on: A woman. Game 7. That first autumn day.
 
And homemade ice cream. The best things just won’t be rushed.
 
Seems like when we were kids that making homemade ice cream was about as common as shucking corn. On our back porch were muddy boots, a mop and broom, emergency dog food in case scraps were in short supply, a deep freeze filled with stuff in white packing paper and clear quart bags, and a gradually rotting wooden ice cream tub and briny crank handle contraption. Always in the bottom of the tub was the white rock salt residue that never quite came out.
 
Never did I know as a child what the rock salt was for, only that you “needed it” to “make the ice cream freeze.” That’s what the grownups said. Grownups took a lot of time not explaining stuff to us back then.
 
“But why?” a little person would say.
 
“Because I said so,” a big person would say.
 
It was a simpler time.
 
Naturally, we just assumed the salt kept the ice cream from contracting rickets.
 
I have since learned (off the streets) that the salt combines in some chemical way with the ice to lower the temperature a bit below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, thus assuring that the mixture inside the Magic Silver Tube, surrounded by ice, freezes.
 
It’s one of those science deals.
 
A couple of weeks ago at the beach, my high school friend J.C. Penney (the four-time Louisiana state 4-H Good Grooming Champ back in the day, which is another column for another time) ran out of salt and out of luck while attempting a homemade batch. He bought salt the next morning and added it to the ice. Less than 20 minutes of churning later, the ice cream was tight as Dick’s hat band and cold as a penguin’s nose. Sweet.
 
Folks don’t seem to make homemade ice cream as much today as they used to. And that’s a shame. Making homemade ice cream taught us some handy life lessons that today’s kids miss out on.
 
True, food folk have figured out how to make Food You Buy At The Store better. Preservatives and whatnot. Cake mixes are about as good from the box now as the ones you can make from scratch. What I’m saying here is that if you’ve eaten Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla, I can pretty much rest my case.
 
But in the days before electric churns, making homemade ice cream taught you patience and safety. The first thing our dads had us boys do was sit on the top of the freezer while they hand churned. This took a calendar day and you couldn’t feel your frozen butt until Tuesday.
 
The next growing-up step was to sit on the churn and turn it at the same time. This required dexterity and skill, because you haven’t lived until you’ve been churning and accidentally hit yourself in a delicate area. Some things you can feel, even frozen. I scream, you scream…
 
(From July 2012)
 

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu or Twitter @MamaLuvsManning