British archaeologist Howard Carter knelt before a newly uncovered doorway deep in the Valley of the Kings on November 26, 1922. With trembling hands, he peered through a small hole, held up a candle, and saw what he would later describe as “wonderful things.”

Moments earlier, Carter and his team had broken the seal to the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun — a 3,000-year-old resting place untouched by grave robbers. Inside were chariots, gilded shrines, jewelry, and the solid gold coffin of the boy king.

Carter’s discovery, funded by British nobleman Lord Carnarvon, became an international sensation. Newspapers worldwide splashed photographs of glittering treasures and mysterious hieroglyphs, sparking “Egyptomania” across the West.

Beyond the headlines, the find transformed archaeology. Tutankhamun’s tomb offered an unprecedented glimpse into Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, revealing burial rituals, art, and craftsmanship of extraordinary sophistication.

The work of cataloging and preserving the artifacts took a decade. Even today, much of Carter’s meticulous documentation guides modern Egyptologists.

November 26, 1922, remains a defining date in archaeological history — the day the modern world reconnected with one of antiquity’s most famous rulers, and when “wonderful things” reignited humanity’s fascination with ancient Egypt.

Sandra “Sande” Carol Avery, 82, was born on March 17, 1943, to Robert W. Gunn and Penny Blackledge Gunn in Pensacola, Florida, and passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Sande dedicated her life to public service, working as a 911 Dispatcher and later as a Desk Sergeant for police departments in San Diego, California, and Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

In 1958, she married Mel Turnage, and together they raised three children: Michael, Patricia, and David. Years later, she married Garry Avery, who had two daughters, Donna and Terry. Sande and Gary shared 47 years of marriage until his passing in 2022.

Beyond her career and family, Sande found joy in birdwatching, especially hummingbirds, following true crime stories, and spending cherished time with her grandchildren. Her love for nature, curiosity, and devotion to family will be remembered by all who knew her.

Sande was preceded in death by her parents, Robert W. and Penny Gunn, and her beloved husband, Garry Avery. She is survived by her children, Patricia and Jesse Santillan, Michael Avery and Julian Avery, David Avery, Donna and Hank Abram, and Terry and Gary Haynes; grandchildren, Alina Beaux Santillan, Erica and Todd Holmes, Cassie and Josh Glavan, Colt Abram Landon, Tyler Luft, and Racheal and Austin Graham; and her great-grandchildren, Mackenly, Tucker, Ansley, and Brynley Holmes, Lacie, Desirea, and Kylie Tapper, Emmalynn Rose, Temperance Ray, Kyler Layton Luft, Layla Soto, Fynlee Graham, and Isabell Graham.

Danny Carl Hale of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away at the age of 93 on the morning of November 19, 2025.

Dan was born on July 2, 1932. He grew up in Wichita Falls, Texas, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma.

On August 23, 1952, Dan met Donna Jane Bryan in Colorado Springs, where they were both spending the summer. They were married in Raton, New Mexico. They lived in Tyler, Texas, and Evergreen, Colorado, where they raised their four children. After their children were grown, they lived in Los Gatos, California, then spent three years in Shreveport, and eventually settled in Georgetown, Texas, where they lived for 23 years. They made many dear friends in Georgetown and were active in their church and community, volunteering in various ministries. They were especially devoted to a program serving children of incarcerated parents.

Dan was a life coach before anyone used the term – always mentoring and supporting young people, welcoming some into his home, encouraging them toward wise choices and a relationship with God. He shared his faith openly but always lovingly and respectfully, hoping others would find their way to Jesus. At the end of every phone call, he and Donna would tell their family, “We pray for you every night, and we love you.” Even as dementia stole many of his memories, he continued to say, “I pray for you.”

In 2021, Dan and Donna moved back to Shreveport to live at The Savannah at The Oaks. Dan, known to his family as Papa, treasured time with his family and would tear up each time they pulled out of the driveway after a visit. As long as they were able, Dan and Donna stayed active and enjoyed golf, tennis, and traveling. Their love for Colorado never faded; they spent a month each year in Pagosa Springs, where they enjoyed fly-fishing and the beauty of the mountains.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Donna; his son, Steven Bryan Hale; his daughter-in-law, Michelle Schnakenberg Hale; his brother, Roger Hale; and his sister-in-law, Mega Bankston Hale. The family takes comfort in imagining his joyful reunion in heaven with his beloved Donna and their son Steve, who passed at age 28. To envision Dan opening his eyes in heaven with restored memory and seeing his Savior face-to-face brings deep peace.

Dan is survived by his son Kevin Hale of Phoenix, Arizona; his son Michael Hale and wife Leah of Houston, Texas; and his daughter Kathy Lamb and husband Richard of Shreveport. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Calhan Hale of New York; New York and Mason Hale, of New York, New York; Rich Lamb and wife Ginny of Shreveport; Spencer Lamb and wife Allison of Shreveport; Christian Lamb and wife Michelle of Shreveport; and Kappy Lamb of Shreveport, his great-grandchildren Virginia, Chip, Nancy, George, Martha, Jamie, Henry, and Jack Lamb.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at The Cottages at the Glen; the staff at The Savannah at the Oaks; to Dr. Alexander, Dr. Panjam and the nurses, sitters, social worker, and care teams at Christus Shumpert; and to the staff at The Carpenter’s House at St. Joseph’s Hospice in Shreveport. Each of these individuals contributed to Papa’s comfort and care in meaningful ways which will always be remembered by his family.

Memorials may be made to The Carpenter House of St. Joseph’s Hospice, 8950 East Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA 71115 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

A private family inurnment will take place at a later date at the colombarium of First Methodist Church of Shreveport.

Phonetic: /ˌimpərˈtərbəb(ə)l/
Part of Speech: adjective

Definition

unable to be upset or excited; calm.
“an imperturbable tranquility”

Similar: self-possessed, composed, collected, calm, cool

Each week, the Shreveport-Bossier Journal’s Tony Taglavore takes to lunch a local person – someone who is well-known, successful, and/or influential, and asks, “What’s Your Story?”

By TONY TAGLAVORE, Journal Services

Some 1,700 men and women walked across the stage at LSU Shreveport’s graduation ceremony last May.

Most were not middle-aged. Most were not blind.

“When I got home that night, I took off my make up and cried. My husband came in the room and said, ‘What is wrong now?’ I said, ‘These are tears of joy because I did it.’”

Earlier that day, LaShawn Benita Harley-Hill received her master’s degree in counseling. In the process, LaShawn proved there’s nothing you can’t accomplish.

“Just because you go through certain circumstances in life, it doesn’t mean you give up on what you want to do . . . . Just believe in yourself. Don’t ever give up. It may take a year, two years, or ten years. Don’t ever give up on what you want to do.”

The soon-to-be 55 year-old South Carolina native who has lived in Shreveport-Bossier since 2003, told me her story during lunch at a place she chose, Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux in Bossier. Harley-Hill had the Double-Bacon Cheeseburger with Swiss cheese, and waffle fries. I enjoyed the Chicken Berry Pecan salad, with dressing on the side.

“Just imagine going back to school with a bunch of 20-year-olds – young girls and young guys – and you’re 50-something. It’s hard. I ain’t going to lie.”

For 14 years, LaShawn worked at what was then LSU Health. It was there that she noticed a change in her eyesight.

“I had a little bit of blurred vision. I went to the doctor. My (eye) pressure was too high, so I had to have emergency surgery. If your pressure is too high, it can cause a stroke, and you can die.”

LaShawn’s diabetes was angry.

“The right vision went first. Then pressure started going up in the left eye. I slowly started losing that vision.”

By mid-January of 2017, LaShawn was totally blind in her right eye. Today, in her left eye, “I can’t see anything. I have a little light in the corner of my eye – just a little.”

LaShawn’s world became dark – literally and figuratively.

“I was depressed. I cried every day for a month.”

The people in LaShawn’s support circle offered encouragement.

“My church family, my friends, my sisters, my husband – everybody said, ‘You’ve got to snap out of this. It’s not the end of the world.’ I was like, ‘I can’t see people! I can’t do anything!”

After a few years, someone from Louisiana Association for the Blind asked LaShawn a question.

“Have you thought about going back to school?”

 “School?”, LaShawn responded. “At my age?”

But the more LaShawn thought about the idea, the more it made sense.

“Well, shoot. I might as well go on and do something with my life. I just came to the realization that if I can make a difference in somebody’s life, maybe I can be an inspiration and say, ‘Hey, you can do this.’”

Three nights a week, using city transportation, her husband, and sister, LaShawn attended classes. She learned where the elevator, classroom, and bathroom were located.

“My computer has software that talks to me. It reads my books for me. It reads articles . . . . In lectures, I would use my voice recorder. I would go home and type up the notes. That’s how I studied.”

From August 2022, until May 2025, LaShawn put in the work – work she couldn’t see. At home, hours after graduation’s pomp and circumstance, reality hit her.

“When I first started, I had doubts. I cried. There were some days I got frustrated. It was a hard journey. But once I got home and realized I did this, I said, ‘Ain’t nothing can stop me now.’ I felt good. It’s a feeling I can’t describe. I felt accomplished. I felt like nothing else can stop me. I felt good.”

By now, you should not be surprised LaShawn does just about anything anyone with good eyesight does, including travel. Since going blind, LaShawn has been to the Dominican Republic, Las Cabos, Montego Bay, and a Dallas Cowboys game. For me, the obvious question was, “Why travel, when you can’t see? What good does it do to be at the beach, if you can’t see the beach?”

“(My husband and I) were in Jamaica. One day, he’s sitting out on the balcony, and says, ‘Wife, come outside and sit with me.’ So, I got up and sat outside with him. He said, ‘Close your eyes.’ I said, ‘Okay.’ He said, ‘Picture the sunset. It’s like a dark burnt orange. It’s slowly going down.’ I said, ‘Oooh, that sounds so beautiful!’ Then I just started crying. He said, ‘What’s wrong?’ I said, ‘For you to take the time to tell me and describe how the sun is going down, I can picture it.’  I go for the memories. I go for the little things.”

Inspired by LaShawn’s lack of self-pity, I asked my final question. As always, what is it about her story that might help others?

“You have to believe in a higher being. God don’t put too much on us that we can’t bear. We may be going through some stuff, but things will get better before they get worse. I’m a firm believer in that.”

Yes, it’s true. You don’t have to see to believe.

Do you know someone with a story? Email SBJTonyT@gmail.com.

The Journal’s weekly “What’s Your Story?” series is sponsored by Morris & Dewett Injury Lawyers.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces the start of a project to replace the LA 528 bridge over Clarke Bayou in eastern Bossier Parish.

The $2.6 million project is scheduled to begin on Monday, Dec. 1 with the closure and removal of the existing structure, which was built in 1976.

Other work includes clearing and grubbing to remove vegetation in the work area, grading, drainage structures, milling asphalt concrete, pavement repairs, roadway base repairs, and related work.

This bridge is located approximately 2.2 miles east of LA 157.

This closure is anticipated to last approximately 10 months, with progress dependent on weather conditions and other factors that may impact construction timelines.

Restrictions/Permits: Total road closure at the specified location. All vehicles will be required to utilize an alternate route.

Alternate route: Detour signage will be posted.

Safety reminder:

DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment. Remember to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.

Additional information:

Call 511, visit http://www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at http://www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

By RON HIGGINS, Journal Sports

BATON ROUGE – LSU interim coach Frank Wilson knows all the motivation in Saturday’s regular-season finale at No. 8 Oklahoma belongs to the home team.

A win by the 9-2 Sooners clinches a College Football Playoff spot.

And 7-4 LSU?

It’s hard to conjure mojo when your fan base is more interested in seeing on Saturday if Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin announces he’s accepting an offer to become the Tigers’ next head coach.

Wilson said at his Monday press conference that his message to his team is simple.

“How do you finish?” Wilson said. “How do you want to be remembered? How do you want your legacy to go out?

“We can go out here and go play the way we’re capable of playing to the best of our ability and see where the chips may fall. We can go out here and raise a white flag and say, ‘you know, no one expected us to win; we’re not going to the playoffs.’

“How do you want this team to be remembered? Eight and four is a lot better than seven and five. It’s about self-reflection. It’s about going on a road, playing a top 10 team who will be favored to beat you, right?

“Here’s our underdog story. Let’s talk about that, and then let’s prepare, and let’s see. Let’s just see how we perform when our backs are against the wall. We’ve been here before.”

It’s an appropriate rah-rah angle, but it still doesn’t address the fact that the Tigers’ offensive line decimated by injuries, is facing an Oklahoma defense ranked first nationally in sacks.

Starting center Braelin Moore and left offensive tackle Ory Williams both have lower leg injuries and are doubtful. Former starting left offensive tackle Tyree Adams (tightrope ankle surgery) will more than likely be ready for LSU’s yet-to-be-determined bowl game.

For an offensive line that wasn’t good, even when healthy, the latest injuries endanger the health of whoever will start at quarterback for LSU.

Wilson left the door slightly ajar for former starter senior Garrett Nussmeier to return vs. OU. Nussmeier has missed the last two games after reaggravating a torso injury in practice before the Arkansas game two weeks ago.

“We’re going to try to see what he looks like (Tuesday) in practice,” Wilson said. “He was good in treatment this weekend. We’ll give him a go at it and see how he feels, and probably mid-week will be able to give you a better answer to that.”

If Nussmeier is again sidelined, sophomore Michael Van Buren Jr. will get his third straight start.

The Mississippi State transfer has completed 64 of 100 passes for 647 yards, four TDs, and one interception. He’s also rushed for 72 yards and one TD on 32 carries.

He’s coming off a shaky performance in LSU’s 13-10 victory over Western Kentucky last Saturday, when he completed less than 60 percent of his passes (25 of 42) for 202 yards, one TD, and one interception.

“Experience is the best teacher, right?” Wilson said of Van Buren. “You’ve got to do it against live bullets. And he’s imperfect. He didn’t play a perfect game, but he’s a talented player who will get better with time and with game reps.

“I said to him, `Pick your head up. Work’s not done yet.’”

KNOW YOUR ENEMY

LSU (7-4 overall, 3-4 SEC) vs. No. 8 Oklahoma (9-2, 5-2), Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Norman, Saturday, 2:30 p.m., ESPN

Last game for Sooners: Oklahoma managed just 276 total yards, and quarterback John Mateer threw for two TDs in 17-6 home win over No. 23 Missouri last Saturday. Missouri had 301 yards total offense but didn’t score in the second half.

Series record and last meeting: LSU leads 3-1. Last season in Baton Rouge, quarterback Garrett Nussmeier overcame a second-quarter ankle injury to throw for 277 yards and three TDs in the Tigers’ 37-17 win over the Sooners.

Oklahoma head coach: Brent Venables (31-19 in fourth season overall and at Oklahoma)

THIS AND THAT

Early betting line: Oklahoma by 10.  

Number of Louisiana natives on Oklahoma roster: 3

Number of Oklahoma natives on LSU roster: 1

Number of transfers on Oklahoma roster from 4-year schools: 27 players from 23 schools, including 11 players from 9 Power 4 Conference schools

OKLAHOMA PLAYERS TO WATCH

QB John Mateer (198 of 318 for 2,260 passing yards, 10 TDs, 7 interceptions, 389 rushing yards and 7 TDs on 122 carries, WR Isaiah Sategna (56 catches for 827 receiving yards, 6 TDs), RB Xavier Robinson (408 rushing yards and 4 TDs on 74 carries), LB Kip Lewis (66 tackles, 8½ TFL), DE Taylor Wein (35 tackles, 14 TFL, 6 sacks, 6 QB hurries), DE Mason Thomas (23 tackles, 9½ TFL, 6½ sacks), PK Tate Sandell (22 of 23 FG, 30 of 30 PAT), P Grayson Miller (47 for 46.6 ypk, 5 touchbacks, 22 inside the 20, 21 50-plus yards).

Contact Ron at ronhigginsmedia@gmail.com

By DAVID ERSOFF, Journal Sports

In the second year of a boys bracket, the Flyer Invitational’s influx of quality teams was impressive last weekend, including Division III state champion University Lab joined by a strong field of visiting teams including Dutchtown, Prairieville, and West Monroe.

On Friday night Loyola took on University, a rematch of last year’s D-III state final. The teams played a back and forth first half that saw no goals by either team. The second half had more of the same, with one exception, a penalty kick by University Lab. The Cubs were able to convert the penalty and escaped with a narrow 1-0 victory.

Saturday morning it was Bossier’s turn to exact some revenge for their semifinal loss to the Cubs in February. U-High came out fast, scoring in the first two minutes followed by another quick goal giving the Cubs an early lead. The Bearkats were able to get past these early mistakes to play the Cubs evenly the rest of the way, with the exception of a penalty called late in the first half. The Cubs converted and ended the scoring there, with the 3-0 victory.

The Flyers began their tournament with a gritty 4-2 win over Captain Shreve on Thursday night. Loyola finished the weekend by facing D-I power Dutchtown. The game ended in a 2-2 tie, only solidifying the Flyers at the top of the Shreveport-Bossier Journal Week 2 coaches’ poll, securing four of the five first-place votes and 23 total points.

The Bearkats only played two games in the Flyer Invitational, as they did in last year’s inaugural boys division. They faced an upstart Prairieville team on Friday night. The game started close, but Bossier put in two goals late in the first half to set the stage for an eventual 5-1 runaway victory. This win solidified the Bearkats’ standing in second place in this week’s poll.

The Flyers and ‘Kats threaten to turn this year’s poll into a two-horse race. However, the Benton Tigers may have something to say about that, having tied Loyola on the first day of the regular season. Benton will get a good test against Bossier on Dec. 2, in what will surely be a heavily attended game.

Benton used that tie and its 2-1 record in the Flyer invitational to jump into the coaches’ poll, ranking third. The Tigers fell 5-3 to West Monroe, mercy-ruled Lafayette Renaissance Charter 11-0, and edging Prairieville in a hard fought 3-2 game Saturday.

Byrd dropped from third to fourth in the coaches’ poll this week. The Jackets did not have the results they were hoping for in the Flyer Invitational. After an opening 1-1 tie with Caddo Magnet, the Yellow Jackets lost two heartbreakers, falling 2-1 to Prairieview and 3-2 to Dutchtown.

Holding their fifth-place spot in the coaches’ poll, the Mustangs used that tie with Byrd to a 2-1-1 record in the tournament. Magnet beat Haughton 4-1, then followed that with an 8-0 mercy rule win over Lafayette Renaissance. The Mustangs ended their weekend with an evenly-fought match with West Monroe, ultimately falling 2-1.

In action Monday night, Calvary fell 2-1 to Ruston and Haughton was doubled up 6-3 in a wild game versus Sterlington.

The only other game looming is the yearly Thanksgiving week game between Bossier and Northwood, scheduled for noon today at Northwood.

There will be no coaches’ poll next week, as there are so few games to evaluate during the holiday week.

The Week 2 SBJ boys soccer coaches’ poll, listing school (W-L-T record) points (first place votes):

1, Loyola (1-1-2), 23 (4)

2, Bossier (1-1-1), 20 (1)

3, Benton (2-1-1), 14

4, Byrd (0-2-1), 10

5, Magnet (2-1-1), 6

Others receiving votes: Shreve (1), Calvary (1).                                                   

Contact David at dersoff@bellsouth.net

What’s on your Thanksgiving menu?

Not asking about what’s going on the dining room table, but what’s getting tuned in on your TV.

Or what’s happening out in the yard, down at the park, or at the local high school stadium.

Glory for the boys at Calvary, Evangel, Loyola and Parkway, who get to practice Thursday morning tuning up for Friday night state quarterfinal games.

Only the best prep teams are still pulling on the helmets this week.

Most of us, including those players and coaches, will be settling into sofas and easy chairs, or lounging on the living room floor, watching ball during, or more likely after, a big Turkey Day feast.

If we’re restricting the topic to strictly Thursday competition, the football TV offerings are like eating Thanksgiving dinner at your Yankee relatives’ table. Not a lot of choices.

Where we used to have Aggies and Longhorns tangling on Thanksgiving night, the Egg Bowl, and other rivalry games, college football has yielded Turkey Day to the NFL.

The Navy at Memphis game matches two good, not great, teams who are rivals only in conference affiliation. It’s the only college contest listed on Thursday’s TV slate.

The NFL has been playing Thanksgiving games for 105 years. You know Detroit (visited by Green Bay) kicks it off, followed by Dallas at home against East Texan Patrick Mahomes and the KC Chiefs. The night game is the presumed return of Joe Burrow to lead the Bengals against the Ravens – LSU’s 2019 Heisman Trophy winner lit up Baltimore twice last year but might be rusty after missing 11 weeks with turf toe.

Lions games were forever snoozers, until former Saints’ offensive line coach Dan Campbell took charge in the Motor City. For years, Detroit’s game provided time to head outside, choose sides and whether touch or tackle, try to avoid Mrs. Adkins’ big oak tree when running pass routes.

Some people, adults mostly, had traditional games. In Natchitoches, when the Cowboys’ quarterbacks were a fading Danny White and a not-very-good Steve Pelluer 40 years ago, the Turkey Bowl took place in the morning at Turpin Stadium, with future community leaders trying to avoid getting hurt while inevitably being reminded they were football has-beens.

In 1988, the Demons were loading the buses, bound for the airport and their playoff game at Boise State. They couldn’t leave until their coach, Sam Goodwin, finished playing in the Turkey Bowl. Priorities.

Sam won on Thanksgiving and again Saturday against the Broncos.

Those were the days.

This weekend, the Egg Bowl – a.k.a. “Lane’s Rebel Swan Song” in the hearts of LSU fans – is Friday, along with the first Texas-Texas A&M contest since 2011. Georgia and Georgia Tech collide, and our local Fox Sports star, Tim Brando, will have the call for Arizona-Arizona State.

Saturday has a couple spicy state rivalries – the Bayou Classic in New Orleans, where Grambling should stuff Southern but the big battle is the halftime show, and the ULM-ULL clash, which used to be Northeast vs. USL.

There’s Ohio State-Michigan. The Iron Bowl. USC-UCLA, Florida-Florida State, Kentucky-Louisville, Clemson-South Carolina, and Mizzou-Arkansas.

No turkeys there.

Expect LSU to trot out the Wildcat formation against Oklahoma. The Sooners lead the country in sacks, says Ron Higgins, and the Tigers’ inept and injury-riddled offensive line is an imminent threat to the health of Michael Van Buren.

Regardless, LSU fans have high hopes for Saturday. None of them will remember what happens in Norman, if over in Oxford, the Lane Train sets course for Baton Rouge.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

JOURNAL SPORTS

Bossier Parish Community College got 26 points and 8 assists by Tony Montgomery and a double-double from Zequan Lewis Monday night as the Cavaliers cruised by Baton Rouge CC 81-68 in the Dacari Markray Invitational at Billy Montgomery Gym.

BPCC picked up 16 points from Drew Cooper, who hit 4 of 8 on 3-pointers, along with 11 points by Mazin Lumori. Lewis scored 11, snagged 10 rebounds and issued 5 assists.

The Cavaliers (5-2) led by 20 or more most of the second half.

“We had a great win tonight in a total team effort over a really good BRCC team that has had some very good wins early in the season,” said first-year Bossier Parish coach Jeff Moore. “Our execution was much improved on the offensive end. Tony had another great performance and Drew was solid again, and shot the 3’s well.”

The Cavs play today at 1 against Tribulation Prep in the two-day tournament.

Both Centenary teams are on the road tonight.

The Gents visit Mary Hardin-Baylor at 5:30 in central Texas (Belton). The Ladies play nearby in Marshall at Wiley College, tipping off at 5.

By MATT VINES, LSUS Media Relations

“Copy-paste.”

That’s what LSU Shreveport men’s soccer senior midfielder Jack Thomas had in mind after seeing the baseball program with their first national championship with a perfect record.

“Unbeaten” was a word that described the men’s soccer team through the first 17 matches, starting the season with five draws before rattling off 12 straight wins.

LSUS did fall in the regular season finale and again in the Red River Athletics Conference Tournament Championship, but the Pilots still positioned themselves to host an NAIA national tournament game for the first time in the program’s history.

But then the unthinkable happened – Faulkner scored two goals in the first five minutes in that national tournament second round match, and such a momentous occasion in program history appeared to be slipping away.

“We believed in our ability. We knew what we were capable of even down 2-nil, and it was just a matter of when we could get the goals,” said Thomas. “We left them for late, and I don’t think we should do that in the national tournament (final site), but we felt like it was in our hands at that point.”

The chances started coming soon after the two-goal deficit, and LSUS finally capitalized on those chances in the second half with two goals.

Thomas found Joel Trueb just minutes int the second half, and David Vejsmose provided the equalizer with just 12 minutes remaining.

In overtime, Thomas scored the game-winner – his fifth game-winner of the season and 19th goal overall – off an assist from Trueb.

For the second straight season and second time ever, LSUS advanced to the final site and into Round of 16 where the No. 13 seed Pilots (14-2-5) will face unseeded Warner Pacific (Ore.).

That matchup against the Knights (16-4-2), who knocked off No. 4 seed Keiser, will take place Dec. 1 in Orange Beach, Ala.

“None of our heads dropped,” said defender Caleb Marchany, who was responsible for the foul that set up Faulkner’s first goal off a penalty kick. “We knew we could get back in it.

“We were a good enough team that we knew we could create chances. Once we created that first chance, it just felt like there’s no way we’re not going to win this game.”

That’s the type of belief that coach Adam Kay has developed in his third season at the helm.

A core group of seven guys returned from that first historic team that took the Pilots to the Round of 16 for the first time ever, but the Kansas cold froze its postseason chances in a 1-0 loss to Bellevue (Neb.).

Playing this time in Orange Beach is a breath of fresh (and warm) air.

“It sucked that we didn’t get the result we wanted last year, but there’s a core group of guys that we’ll lean on, that know how it feels to lose on that stage, to lead us into certain areas where we can be successful,” Kay said. “We understand that we belong on that stage now, and we’ve seen a lot of teams who are regulars (at the final site).

“The windchill in last year’s game in Kansas was 22 on game day, and this week I’m wearing shorts as we train at 7 a.m. It’s going to be rainy with a humidity of 96 percent, so I think it benefits us that we’re used to playing in the South.”

A fairly new Pilots team was finding its way early in the season against tough competition before finding its “form” as Thomas would say.

Thomas ranks in the top-10 nationally in goals (19, tied for seventh), assists (12, tied for eighth), and total points (50, tied for sixth). He’s led or tied for the team lead in goals scored all three seasons and has 46 to his name in his three-year career as he makes his claim for the best player in the history of a program that started just in 2009.

“JT is up there for sure, and there are absolutely some fantastic players that have come through in years past,” Kay said. “When you wear the captain’s armband, it’s about how you lead a team.

“If we win a national championship, he might go down as the undisputed best. As much of a clinical and special player he is, we have a fantastic supporting cast around him. If we didn’t have that quality and depth, I don’t think he’s doing what he’s doing.”

Kay said the late losses to Louisiana Christian and then Xavier, the latter in the tournament championship game in the final seconds, helped jolt the team to be in a position to compete for a national title.

“The loss to Xavier, that’s one where our performance didn’t match the result – we were playing well at the business end of the season,” Kay said. “But the Louisiana Christian loss was a wake-up call, letting the guys know that they aren’t untouchable and aren’t good enough to not show up and think things are going to happen for us.

“I think the game here against Faulkner, our guys started extremely nervous and worried about letting people down – there was a lot of ‘moment’ there. But once we settled in and started to play properly, we played fantastic. It’s one of those matches where if you weren’t a supporter of either team, it’s one of the greatest games ever. As a supporter, it’s one of the most heart-pounding, heart attack central matches.”

The Pilots launch into the national tournament final site as a program looking to establish itself beyond just a Red River Athletics Conference power (where they’ve won the past four regular-season titles from the foundation built by previous coach Phillip Bohn).

“We’ve stepped forward each of my three years here, and we’re very confident about competing in this national tournament,” Thomas said. “(Kay) recruited very well, and we’ve got a lot of quality on this team.

“And it helps that all 28 of us are friends and would die for each other. We all understand what it takes to win, and that’s what happened Saturday against Faulkner.”

Now the program wants to take more steps, starting Dec. 1 against Warner Pacific as the Pilots need two wins to reach the national title game and a third to bring home the program’s first crown.

Just nine of the 16 national seeds are left standing.

“We’re an older team even if we have a lot of guys that are new to this program, but they are hungry for this moment,” Kay said. “Our core group has passed on the values of the program that (Bohn) built through his years and understand what this all means, and the new guys have come in and said, ‘Let’s do this.’”

Contact Matt at matt.vines@lsus.edu

In the summer of 2021, a new neighbor moved into what had been a peaceful mobile home park in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, a suburb just north of Minneapolis. Until then, the residents of the mobile home park held regular barbecues and other outdoor gatherings when the cold Minnesota weather allowed. Their kids played outside and walked to and from the bus stop without the slightest hint of hesitation. The trailer park residents got along well with each other. That all changed when the new neighbor moved in.

The new neighbor was a bully who victimized the residents of the mobile home park. The bully chased them, taunted them, and sometimes attacked them. The residents were unable to relax even when they were inside their own homes because the bully peaked through their windows and made sounds that they said became terrifying to them. One day, 41-year-old Rachael Gross was carrying her groceries from her car to her home when the bully dropped down from her roof and knocked her to the ground.

During the struggle that followed, the bully ripped her jacket before Rachael was able to escape into her house. Her groceries lay scattered on her front lawn. The bully even followed Rachael to the nearby nursing home where she worked and to her favorite local restaurant. Each time, Rachael rushed inside to safety. The bully always stopped just shy of following her in. During another attack, Rachael slung water from her water bottle onto the bully. The shock from the water gave her just enough time to get inside before the bully ran back toward her. After numerous attacks, Rachael and her neighbors began to carry sticks, brooms, golf clubs, and baseball bats anytime they went outside. Rachael and her neighbors called the authorities on several occasions, but the bully continued to terrorize the neighborhood.

Because Rachael was most often the target of the bully, her neighbors began to suspect that she was somehow helping him despite her emphatic denials.

Rachael felt trapped. She said, “I’m pretty stressed out and pretty anxious all the time. I can’t even have peace. I’m so exhausted. I hope this gets a solution and somebody comes to help so I don’t have to deal with this anymore, and so that we can all have a peaceful summer with our kids and our grandkids and actually have a barbecue and just relax.” Summer turned into fall and there was no relief from the bully.

Parents had to walk their kids to and from the bust stop armed with a variety of weapons. The kids used their backpacks as shields. The neighborhood cancelled all of their usual outside activities including trick-or-treating at Halloween. For two years, the residents of the trailer park lived in fear of the bully. In the fall of 2023, reports of the bullying ended. Rumors persist that someone in the mobile home park murdered the bully. Perhaps they were all involved in the murder conspiracy. Some of the rumors go as far as to say that there is no evidence to be found because the residents ate the bully during a Thanksgiving celebration. The new neighbor which plagued that mobile home park was a wild turkey. Happy Thanksgiving!

Sources:

1. Kirsten Mitchell, “‘This turkey has literally taken over our life’: Wild turkey terrorizing neighbors in Coon Rapids,” CBS News, January 21, 2023, accessed November 16, 2025, https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/wild-turkey-terrorizing-neighbors-in-coon-rapids/.

2. The Gazette (Cedar Rapids, Iowa), March 5, 2023, p.5M.

A funeral service for Billie R. Lawrence “Ms. Billie,” 94, will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana. Burial will follow at Springhill Cemetery in Springhill, Louisiana. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Bossier. Officiating the service will be Brother Harrell Shelton.

Billie was born on February 12, 1931, in Springhill, Louisiana, where she graduated and played basketball. Throughout her life, she remained dedicated to her alma mater, where she was involved with the Springhill High School Alumni Association.

Known as “Ms. Billie” or “Mammaw” at the baseball fields, she was a living legend. She spent countless hours at the ballpark, where she became a familiar and cherished presence. For three generations, she was a constant at the field—never far from the action with her scorebook in hand and a bag of peanuts by her side. A fixture in the community, she cheered on her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with unwavering support and infectious enthusiasm. Her love for the game and her generous spirit made the baseball fields a home away from home for many, and her legacy there will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know her.

Above all, she loved her family, aching with pride for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and taking joy in spoiling them in countless ways. Her kindness, warmth, and generous heart extended beyond the fields to every person she met.

Her presence brought comfort and smiles to those around her. Though she is dearly missed, her memory lives on in the stories, love, and traditions she leaves behind.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Orvil and Hattie Estelle Rice; her husband, Clinton Howard Allen; and her sister, Hazel Leger.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Jim Allen and wife, Janie; Jowanna Staton and husband, J.W.; Joseph Allen and wife, Ann; Jerry Allen and wife, Tanya; Cecil Lawrence and wife, Priscilla; Cecilia Lawrence; and Richard Lawrence and wife, Debbie. Her grandchildren include Tommy Allen, Gabrielle Allen, Jennifer Staton, Jim Staton, Trey Allen and wife, Kari, Beth Guidry and husband, Carey, Jay Allen, Brandi Henson and husband, J.P., Kristin Albee and husband, Travis, Kyle Lawrence and wife, Jessica, Bailey Lawrence, Jerry Lawrence and wife, Kirsten, Jordan Lawrence, Caitlin Lawrence, and Caleb Lawrence.

Her great-grandchildren include Hunter Allen and wife, Piper; Colton Allen; Josh Allen; Abbie Hooper; Reily Hooper; Drew Guidry; Will Guidry; Claire Guidry; Drew Henson; Connor Henson; Noah Henson; Addison Albee; Austin Albee; Ainsley Albee; Anistyn Albee; Makaylyn Lawrence; Vyse Lawrence; Quentin McKoy; Rowan Lawrence; Landry Lawrence; Maverick Lawrence; Rhyz Lawrence; and Jacqueline Lawrence.

Honoring Billie as pallbearers will be Tommy Allen, Jerry Lawrence, Jay Allen, Trey Allen, Kyle Lawrence, and Caleb Lawrence. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Rowan Lawrence and Jim Staton.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Riverview Care Center in Bossier City, Louisiana, and Life Path Hospice for the compassionate care and support provided to Billie throughout her illness and until her passing.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Benton High School, 449 Fairburn Avenue, Benton, Louisiana 71006; to the Benton Baseball Booster via Venmo; or to the charity of your choice. When making a donation, please specify whether your gift is intended for the Benton High School Band Booster or the Benton High School Baseball Booster to ensure proper designation.

August 17, 1956 — November 21, 2025

Hollie Jo Hinkie, age 69 of Haughton, Louisiana, passed away after a hard-fought battle on Friday, November 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of light, kindness, and unwavering positivity. Hollie had a remarkable ability to brighten every room she entered, greeting others with her gentle smile and warm spirit. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend whose love and encouragement were felt by all who knew her.

For 14 wonderful years, Hollie was married to the love of her life, Thomas Hinkie. Together, they shared many adventures, especially their time spent riding their Harley and traveling. Of all the places they visited, Hot Springs, Arkansas held her heart, and in honor of her wishes, her cremated remains will be scattered into the waters of Lake Hamilton.

Hollie dedicated more than 29 years to Bayou State Oil, where her coworkers became her second family. Their support, care, and camaraderie meant the world to her.

A woman of faith, Hollie was a committed member of First Baptist Church of Haughton for the past 10 years, joyfully singing in the choir. Her love for music and ministry began early; as a teenager, she was part of the group “All God’s Children,” a foundation that shaped her lifelong devotion to serving others.

Hollie is preceded in death by her parents; Scooter and Nancy Roach, her husband; Thomas J Hinkie Jr. and her son; Jeffrey Jerner.

Left to cherish her memory; son; Kyle Jerner, son; Ryan Jerner and wife Meraflor; her four beloved grandchildren; Keira, Liam, Logan and Leah, sister; Julia Ball, sister; Angelia Fletcher and husband Melvin, brother; Gene Roach and wife Mary, as well as many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Bristol Hospice, especially Nurse Shari, Aides Felicia and Miranda, Social Worker Chasity and Chaplain Randy, for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Hollie’s name to First Baptist Church of Haughton.

Hollie’s gentle heart, positive outlook, and deep love for her family and friends will be forever cherished. May her beautiful spirit continue to shine in the lives of all who loved her.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything”. James 1:2-4

Caddo Fire District 3 responded to a two-vehicle accident on Nov. 24 at approximately 5:05 p.m. after Fire and EMS crews were dispatched to the intersection of Lakeshore Drive and Willow Ridge.

First-arriving units reported that both vehicles sustained minor damage. EMS evaluated two individuals at the scene, and no injuries were reported.

The scene was later turned over to the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office for further investigation.

Officials noted that wet roads and rainy weather contributed to hazardous driving conditions and reminded motorists to use caution, slow down, and allow extra travel time.

Bossier Parish Sheriff Julian Whittington recently announced the promotion of four deputies within the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Capt. Matt Gaydos was promoted to Chief Criminal Deputy, Major Doyle Dempsey was promoted to Assistant Chief, Lieutenant Neil Johnston was promoted to Captain, and Lieutenant Josh Cathcart was promoted to Captain.

“These promotions reflect the dedication, professionalism, and leadership these individuals have consistently demonstrated throughout their careers,” said Sheriff Whittington. “Their experience and commitment to serving the citizens of Bossier Parish will be a great asset to this agency as we continue to move forward.”

The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office congratulates Chief Criminal Deputy Gaydos, Assistant Chief Dempsey, Captain Johnston, and Captain Cathcart on their well-deserved promotions and thanks them for their continued service to the community.

Caddo Fire District 4 partnered with the Louisiana Food Bank this week to distribute Thanksgiving meals to residents across Caddo Parish. The outreach effort provided food, support, and a moment of connection for community members ahead of the holiday.

Approximately 250 residents received meals during the distribution, which District 4 described as a mission of food, thanks, and safety for the community it serves. Fire District personnel greeted families, offered assistance, and helped ensure the event ran smoothly.

District 4 extended its appreciation to the Louisiana Food Bank and Caddo Parish Commissioner Ed Lazarus for their support and collaboration, noting that their involvement helped make the event possible and strengthened the district’s bond with the community.

District 4 stated it was proud to serve and proud to give back as part of this year’s Thanksgiving outreach.

The Caddo Parish Commission recognized four local organizations on Wednesday for their hard work, community impact, and dedication to improving the lives of Caddo Parish residents.

A Quiet Place in the Woods was honored for its commitment to providing literacy support, social-skills training, and positive intervention programs that help children and young adults avoid delinquency and reach their full potential.

The Donnie Bickham Lady Patriots Softball Team was celebrated for completing an undefeated 12–0 season and securing the Middle School Championship, marking an exceptional achievement for the student-athletes and their school community.

The Zonta Club of Shreveport received recognition for its longstanding service in empowering women and girls through advocacy, volunteerism, and community partnerships that strengthen families and promote equity.

Tray and Jasmine Moore, representing the Cedar Grove Friendship House of Community Renewal, were honored for their ongoing mentorship, youth programming, and neighborhood support efforts aimed at strengthening families and guiding youth in the Cedar Grove community.

The Commission encouraged residents to join in celebrating these exemplary organizations and individuals whose dedication continues to enrich and uplift Caddo Parish.