November 12, 2026: Northwest Louisiana Daily Sweep

DOTD Reports $9.6 Million Hearne Avenue Project Nearing Completion
Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announced Tuesday, Nov. 10, that its $9.6 million roadway improvement project along Hearne Avenue in Shreveport is approaching completion. Motorists are now traveling on a new asphalt surface along the 4.6-mile section of U.S. 171 between LA 3132 and Greenwood Road. Crews are installing permanent pavement markings, including pedestrian crosswalks and stop bars at intersections such as West 70th Street, Hollywood Avenue, Kings Highway and Greenwood Road. DOTD said drivers should remain alert for slow-moving construction vehicles while striping operations continue. The project, funded through the Louisiana Transportation Infrastructure Fund, is expected to be completed by mid-November, weather permitting.

Shreveport Veteran Highlights Military Service and Civil Rights at LSUS Ceremony
LSU Shreveport

Shreveport veteran and former Caddo Parish Commissioner Ken Epperson Sr. delivered the keynote address during LSU Shreveport’s Veterans Day ceremony Wednesday, Nov. 11, highlighting the military contributions of Black Americans throughout U.S. history. Epperson, a 1965 graduate of Union High School, served three years in the Army as a finance and personnel administrator in Germany and Oklahoma. He discussed the challenges faced by Black service members during segregation and their contributions from the Revolutionary War through World War I. Epperson later worked in manufacturing, utilities and aviation logistics before entering public service. He served nearly three decades on the Caddo Parish Commission, representing two separate districts during his political career. His remarks emphasized recognizing the service and sacrifices of all veterans.

LSUS Food Drive Continues Through Friday to Support Northwest Louisiana Families
LSU Shreveport

LSU Shreveport is collecting nonperishable food through Friday, Nov. 13, as part of its annual campus food drive benefiting the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana and the university’s food pantry. Organizers have established a goal of collecting more than 6,500 pounds of food. Eighty percent of donated items will benefit the regional food bank, while the remaining 20% will support the LSUS Food Pantry. Donations can be dropped off at Noel Memorial Library in a collection box near the circulation desk entrance facing Bronson Hall. Requested items include canned meat, peanut butter, dried beans, rice, pasta, canned vegetables, soups, cereal and oatmeal. The drive is intended to provide additional food assistance to families and students facing food insecurity.

Shreve Memorial Library Hosts Family Literacy Night Thursday at Atkins Branch
Shreve Memorial Library

Shreve Memorial Library’s Atkins Branch will host Family Literacy Night on Thursday, Nov. 12, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at 3704 Greenwood Road in Shreveport. The free program encourages parents and caregivers to help children develop early reading and language skills through interactive family activities. Participants will explore five practices that support literacy development: talking, singing, reading, writing and playing. Families can participate in games, stories and activity stations designed to make learning enjoyable. The program is part of the library system’s Early Literacy Initiative and incorporates elements of the Every Child Ready to Read program. Registration is required, and seating is limited. Families may contact the Atkins Branch at (318) 635-6222 for information.

Bossier Parish Libraries Offer Adult Activities Thursday
Bossier Parish Libraries

Bossier Parish Libraries will offer recreational activities for adults Thursday, Nov. 12, at branches in Plain Dealing and Haughton. The Plain Dealing Branch, 208 East Mary Lee Ave., will host bingo from 11 to 11:45 a.m., providing an opportunity for residents to socialize and participate in a group activity. The East 80 Branch, 1050 Bellevue Road in Haughton, will offer adult bingo from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The programs are part of the library system’s regular schedule of activities designed to encourage community involvement and provide opportunities for recreation and social interaction.