Two 18-year-old Shreveport men were arrested following a high-speed pursuit involving a stolen pickup truck, boat and trailer in Winn Parish on Sept. 21, 2026.

The Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office received a report from Winnfield City Police regarding the theft of a gray Ford pickup truck pulling a trailer with a boat from TAZ Mart in Winnfield. The vehicle was reportedly taken by two Black males and was last seen traveling north on U.S. 167.

A short time later, deputies received a report of a boat and trailer blocking the roadway on Louisiana Highway 156. Deputies responded and confirmed that the boat and trailer matched the description of those stolen with the pickup truck.

Deputies located the stolen vehicle traveling south on Gum Springs Road off Louisiana Highway 156. The vehicle failed to stop, and a pursuit was initiated. During the pursuit, speeds exceeded 125 mph.

The vehicle crossed U.S. 84 at speeds exceeding 100 mph before continuing southbound on Gum Springs Road. The driver eventually ran off the roadway and crashed into several trees.

The driver and passenger exited the vehicle and fled on foot into the surrounding woods. Winn Parish deputies, Louisiana State Police, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries officers, Atlanta Police and the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office Chase Team established a perimeter and searched for the suspects.

After several hours, one suspect was apprehended in the woods near Black Mountain Road. The suspect was identified as Demario Cortez Spearman Lewis, 18, of Shreveport. Spearman Lewis, identified as the passenger, was arrested and charged with two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, aggravated obstruction of a roadway, resisting arrest by flight and theft of a firearm.

At approximately 7 a.m., a Winn Parish deputy spotted a Black male matching the description of the second suspect walking along the edge of Archie Jones Road, just off Gum Springs Road. The deputy apprehended the suspect without incident.

The second suspect, identified as the driver, was Kadence Jaa’lyn Dequise Neal, 18, of Shreveport. Neal was arrested and charged with two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, aggravated obstruction of a roadway, aggravated flight from an officer, careless operation of a vehicle with crash, speeding 120/45, resisting arrest by flight, theft of a firearm and leaving the scene of a crash.

Both suspects were booked into the Winn Parish Detention Center.

The Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office also responded by sending a drone and operator to assist in locating the second suspect.

Sheriff McAllister thanked the Louisiana State Police, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Winn Parish Chase Team, Winnfield Police Department, Winnfield City Marshal’s Office, Atlanta Police Department and Sheriff Tony Edwards of the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office for their assistance.

“This is the way it’s supposed to work, departments assisting each other when manpower is stretched,” Sheriff McAllister said. “This was a great outcome. No one was injured during the pursuit, crash, or apprehension.”

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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From Sept. 16-22, Shreveport Police arrested 18 people on DWI charges. Four were charged with DWI, second offense.

DWI, second offense:

Brock Allen Lawson — also charged with careless operation, improper turning or signaling, and expired registration.

Dekendrey E. Reddix — also charged with a registration violation and driving under suspension.

Jackie Williams — also charged with speeding and possession of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle.

Tremaine M. Levi — also charged with hit-and-run, driving under suspension, an ignition interlock violation, no proof of insurance, and possession of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle.

DWI, first offense:

Donald G. Edwards Jr.

Antonio Jacobs — also charged with speeding.

Johnnie D. Winn — also charged with speeding and careless operation.

Steven G. Shuler — also charged with no proof of insurance, careless operation, and possession of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle.

Shirley A. Collins — also charged with improper lane use.

Nicolia Lashundae Washington — also charged with driving under suspension, a registration violation, and no insurance.

Andrea Rene Brown — also charged with reckless operation.

Jessie L. Ward III — also charged with improper lane use.

Mitchell E. Hampton

Megan B. Huff — also charged with improper turning or signaling and a taillight violation.

Christain Oshea Brimzy — also charged with driving without a license, a one-way roadway violation, and possession of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle.

Antonio M. Ramirez-Rodriguez — also charged with driving without a license and speeding.

Arvesta Demery — also charged with misdemeanor marijuana possession and possession of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle.

Kevin Lopez

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Twelve students taking American Sign Language through the Bossier Schools Distance Learning Program recently visited the Deaf Action Center in Shreveport for a Bingo and spaghetti lunch.

The event gave students an opportunity to use their language skills and knowledge of Deaf culture in a real-world setting. Students played bingo and conversed with members of the Deaf community, gaining a deeper understanding, confidence and appreciation for ASL and the culture surrounding it.

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Mary Nell Ray, age 59, passed from this life on September 22, 2026 in Shreveport, LAwith her family surrounding her. She was born on December 23, 1966 in Crossett, AR. She graduated from college with a bachelor’s degree in social work. Her main goal in life was raising her three sons and loving her grandchildren. She believed in God and knew that he was always with her. She loved going to flea markets with Sharon, reading books, and sitting on the back porch talking to her daddy.

She was preceded in death by her father, Max Tillman Ray; her biological father, Doyle Gray, and brother, Ronald Dean Ray.

She leaves behind, her mother, Mary B. Ray of Crossett, AR; three sons, Michael Trigleth (Brittney), Justin Trigleth (Brandy) of Crossett, AR and Billy Trigleth (Felicia) of DeRidder, LA; stepmother, Nancy Gray of Crossett, AR; four brothers, Brian Ray, Sr. (Roni), Patrick Ray (Betty), Carl Gray (Amy) of Crossett, AR and Kirk Gray; three sisters, Jean Floyd (Kenny) of Camden, AR, Shelia Hall (Larry) of Crossett, ARand Sandra Gray of Sterlington, LA; a cousin that was more like a sister, Sharon Kelley of Crossett, AR; ten grandchildren, Kaylee, Leland, Ryland, Gabe Troy, Timothy, Dakota, Devon, Haley and Tyler; five great grandchildren and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life Service was at Jones Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, September 25, 2026 beginning at 11 a.m. with Bro. Brian Ray, Sr. officiating.

Interment is in Bethel Cemetery under the direction of Jones Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Michael Trigleth, Billy Trigleth, Justin Trigleth, Jeremey Barnett, Jason Barnett and Brian Ray, Jr. Honorary Pallbearers were Patrick Ray, Leland Trigleth, Timothy Noble, Tyler Collins, Clint Barnett and Hayden Hennington. http://www.jonesservice.com.

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Celebrating the life of Robert Price Davis (Jan 9th 1957 – Sept 22,2026), a remarkable man whose spirit was defined by love and kindness. Robert was the cherished son of Robert Price Davis Jr and Veronica Fell Davis. His upbringing in Shreveport instilled in him a deep sense of community and dedication to those he loved. A service will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026 at 3 pm at Aulds Funeral Home in Shreveport.

Robert’s life was profoundly enriched by his marriage to Sandra Flores Davis. They wed on May 26, 1979, and shared 46 beautiful years together, until Sandra’s passing in 2025. Their union was blessed with three devoted daughters: Rachel Dixon, married to Christopher; Stephanie Davis, partnered with LaMarcus; and Christina Davis. His daughters were a source of immense pride and joy, reflecting the values and love he and Sandra instilled in them. His favorite quote “A family that prays together stays together.”

As a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Robert exemplified service and dedication. His military service was a testament to his courage and commitment to his country, attributes that continued to manifest throughout his life.

Family was the cornerstone of Robert’s existence. He found boundless joy in his role as a grandfather to Alycia, Isaiah, Jason, Alliah, Hunter, Hailee, Tristan, and Braydon. His face would light up at the mention of his great-grandchildren, Eliza and Ezekiel, whose laughter and innocence filled his heart with happiness.

Robert was predeceased by his wife, Sandra, his parents Robert & Veronica, and his brother, James Davis. Yet, he leaves behind a legacy carried forward by his surviving family members, who will forever cherish the memories they created together.

Known for his generosity and kindness, Robert touched countless lives with his willingness to help others. His actions were a true reflection of the compassionate soul he was, always ready to lend a hand or offer a comforting word.

Robert’s love for his family was unparalleled. Every moment spent with his children and grandchildren was treasured, and his legacy of love and support will continue to inspire them for generations.

Robert Price Davis’s life was a testament to the power of love, family, and service. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

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Shriners Children’s Shreveport has broken ground on a future 43,000-square-foot pediatric outpatient facility.

Located across the street from the current facility, the new outpatient center will expand access to specialized pediatric orthopedic, sports medicine, and cleft lip and palate care.

The facility will feature advanced imaging technology, expanded rehabilitation services, a dedicated sports medicine gym, and enhanced orthotic and prosthetic services.

“We’re going to meet the needs of our current patients while also anticipating the growing number of children who need specialized care in a family-centered environment,” said Susan Bryant, administrator of Shriners Children’s Shreveport.

“Shreveport is where the Shriners Children’s healthcare system began more than a century ago, and it remains an important part of our future as our network continues to grow,” said Larry Leib, International President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Shriners International and Shriners Children’s.

Construction is expected to begin within the next few months, with an anticipated opening in spring 2028.

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Shreveport Police Department Lt. Jared Woods has been selected to attend the FBI National Academy.

In the coming weeks, Woods will travel to the academy for advanced training in law enforcement leadership, procedures, technology and tactics.

The Shreveport Police Department said Woods will represent the department at the academy.

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The Shreveport Police Department is warning the public about scams involving fake warrants.

The federal government will never email someone a warrant, and neither will the Shreveport Police Department. Warrants are not delivered through emails resembling coupons, shipping confirmations or extended car warranty offers.

If someone claims to be law enforcement, the department advises people to ask to speak with the officer’s supervisor or hang up and contact the law enforcement agency directly using a verified phone number.

The department also advises people to never send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency or personal information to “clear up” a warrant.

The department noted that if a uniformed police officer is standing directly in front of someone giving lawful commands, people should comply.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development made an announcement on Sept. 23 regarding continued improvements for the US 71 (Barksdale Blvd) corridor in the form of a $7.9 million overlay project in south Bossier Parish.

Work is scheduled to begin the week of Monday, September 28, 2026.

The project, which stretches on US 71 from LA 3032 (Shreveport-Barksdale Hwy) to LA 612 (Sligo Rd), includes full-depth repairs to address & strengthen the roadway base, milling to remove old asphalt, new asphalt paving on the northbound side & concrete panel replacements on the southbound side, fresh roadway striping, and related work.

Motorists should anticipate intermittent lane closures, particularly during full-depth patching, milling and overlay work, to allow construction to progress safely and efficiently. Drivers are urged to prepare for possible delays, and allow additional time for daily commutes.

The entire project is expected to be complete in early 2027, with progress dependent on weather conditions and other factors that can impact construction timelines.

These improvements will enhance not only the overall travel experience through Bossier City, but also the safety of the US 71 corridor, which is a primary north-south route servicing numerous communities across the state.

US 71 (Barksdale Blvd) from Shreveport-Barksdale Hwy to I-20 in Bossier City was also recently repaired with a new asphalt overlay in 2022.

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Northwestern State University’s Rodeo Team is preparing for its first collegiate competition since the program was reestablished, with 12 student-athletes set to compete at the Panola College Rodeo Sept. 24-26 in Tatum, Texas.

The competition will mark NSU’s debut in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association’s Southern Region after the university announced the return of the Rodeo Team in May. The team has since grown to a roster of 14 student-athletes under Coach Cody DeMoss, with 12 set to compete at Panola College.

NSU will be represented in several events during its opening competition. The lineup includes four saddle bronc riders, five competitors in breakaway roping and two barrel racers. NSU will also field a team in team roping, while another NSU competitor will team rope with a student from Trinity Valley Community College.

“This is the very first college rodeo that they are going to get to go to,” DeMoss said. “This one being right here in Tatum, Texas, just 120 miles down the road, is a perfect warmup for us.”

DeMoss, a 14-time National Finals Rodeo bronc rider, was named coach as NSU reestablished the program. He said he sees potential across several events as the team enters its first competition.

“I think they’ve got a chance,” DeMoss said. “There are a couple bronc riders in here that have really got a chance to do some good, quite a few breakaway ropers. The horsemanship on quite a few of them is pretty good, so there’s some real talent.”

Allison Savant, a freshman industrial engineering major from Kenner, competes in breakaway and team roping. She said the team has been practicing nearly every night leading up to its first competition.

“I’m pretty confident. We have a pretty strong team,” Savant said. “Mr. Cody has definitely coached us up. We’ve been practicing almost every night. We have really good calves to practice on, so I think we are going to do a really good job.”

For Savant, the Panola College Rodeo will also be her first experience competing at the collegiate level.

“I feel like it’s going to be a fun experience,” Savant said. “First college rodeo, it’s not going to be like the high school rodeos. It’s going to be a little bit different, so I’m excited to see what’s new.”

Cyler Yeager, a freshman from Montana, competes in saddle bronc riding. He said the opportunity to join a new program helped draw him to NSU.

“When I first got to talking to Mr. Cody, he had a lot of great things to say, and I thought it would be great to be a part of a new organization,” Yeager said. “I thought I might be able to help create history and maybe be history myself.”

Yeager said he feels confident entering his first collegiate competition after weeks of preparation.

“We’ve been training pretty rigorously lately, hopping on horses and on the dummy over there and just trying my hardest to get ready for it,” Yeager said. “You’ve just got to trust in the motions that you know.”

The Panola College Rodeo opens a five-event fall schedule for the NIRA Southern Region. Following Panola, the region is scheduled to compete at Southwest Texas College Oct. 1-3 in Uvalde, Texas, Northeast Texas Community College Oct. 8-10 in Mount Pleasant, Texas, McNeese State University Oct. 30-31 in Lake Charles and Sam Houston State University Nov. 12-14 in Huntsville, Texas.

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Cameron “Jayden” Bishop, age 21, of Blanchard, LA passed away on Tuesday September 15, 2026, at LSU Health in Shreveport Louisiana.

Funeral services for Jayden will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Boone Funeral Home. Officiating the service will be Youth Pastor Zack Fleming.

Jayden was born June 24, 2005, in Americus GA to Richard “Bubba” Bishop and Anna Marie Bishop.

Jayden loved the simple things in life like fishing, playing video games, hanging out with friends, family game nights, but most importantly, laughing. He absolutely loved pranking people, telling jokes and stories, and being an unapologetic GOOF. If you didn’t have a smile on your face, it was Jayden’s personal mission to ensure you walked away laughing, even if that meant embarrassing him-self so that you’d laugh AT HIM. Jayden showed his love loudly, proudly, and it was wholeheartedly. He showed his love in a way that never left you wondering how much he loved you. He will be missed by those that knew him, both as Jayden and as Cameron, and forever loved deeply by those that got to call him SON, BROTHER, GRANDSON, COUSIN, NEPHEW, AND FRIEND.

Jayden is survived by; his parents, Bubba Bishop (Victoria) of Blanchard, LA and Anna Bishop of Americus, GA. His baby sister, Adaline Bishop, little sister Zoe Murphy and 2 younger brothers Zay & Zee Murphy of Blanchard, LA. His grandmother “Nanny” Cheryl Simmons of Blanchard, LA. Grandmother “Nana” Kathy Christmas of Americus, GA. Great Grandmother Charlotte Green of Americus, GA. Grandfather Ricky Bishop of Cordele, GA. Grandfather Steve Wright of Oglethorpe, GA. Great Grandfather Richard Bishop Sr. of Cordele, GA. Great Grandfather Eugene Avery of Leesburg, GA. Multiple Uncles and Aunts, Kayla Wright (Andie Bolt)- Blanchard, LA. Kinsley Wright (Austin Padgett) – Blanchard, LA. Mary Kathryn Wright- Blanchard, LA. Stephanie Simmons of Bossier, LA. Edwin Ardon of Haughton, LA. Brooke Vickers (Leroy) of Cairo, GA. Jennifer Wright (Patrick) of Wewahitchka, FL. And his Aunt Natalie of Americus, GA. His great Aunts & Uncles- Kevin Law (Tammi) – Oglethorpe, GA. Tracy Plunkett of Americus, GA. Virgil Barfield of Ideal, GA. Patsy Stewart (Jacky) of Americus, GA. also, A host of cousins.

Jayden is Preceded in death by; Grandfather Gary Christmas of Americus, GA. Great Grandparents David and Maxine Law of Oglethorpe, GA. Great Grandmother Marilyn Bishop of Cordele, GA. Great Aunt Cindy Bishop of Cordele, GA. Great Uncle Tommy Bishop of Cordele, GA. Great Aunts Liz Barfield of Warner Robins, GA and Charlotte Barfield of Ideal, GA. Cousins Tara Melo of Ideal, GA and David Wilkinson of Cordele, GA.

Honorary Pallbearers are; Austin Padgett, Edwin Ardon, JB Law, Lannon Ford, Trent Jenkins, Matt Matlock and Thomas Todd.

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Charles Edwin “Chuck” Mars, born February 17, 1961, in Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away on June 3, 2026, in Shreveport.

Chuck was a one-of-a-kind person whose presence will be deeply missed by the people who knew and loved him. He had a wonderfully dry sense of humor and a way of seeing things that was uniquely his own. His humor could catch you off guard, but it was often those quiet, unexpected moments that brought the biggest smiles.

Chuck was an avid Gamer and a devoted Texas Rangers fan. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of doing the things he loved, and those interests became a part of the person his family and friends came to know so well.

Professionally, Chuck worked as a Production Manager at the Harrison & Company. He was a graduate of Northwood High School and LSU-S. Throughout his life, he built connections and memories that will remain with those who shared his journey.

Chuck is survived by his brothers, Tommy Mars and his wife, Lyn, and Dorsie “Butch” Mars and his wife, Glenda. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, and a great grand-niece and great grand-nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee Mars and Pat Mars McTee, and his brother, Darrell Mars.

While words can never fully capture a life or the space someone leaves behind, Chuck will be remembered with love by his family. He will be missed for his humor, his individuality, and all the little things that made him who he was. His memory will remain with those who loved him, and he will always be a part of the family he leaves behind. A Memorial Service will be announced in the near future.

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Detectives with the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office have arrested a Bossier City man during an ongoing investigation into allegations of sex offenses involving a former Haughton High School student.

Kevin Williams, 56, who was employed as the band director at Haughton High School, was arrested following an investigation that began after an adult victim came forward with information regarding alleged sexual abuse that occurred over a period of years while the victim was of high school age and involved in the Haughton High School band program.

Bossier Schools Superintendent Jason Rowland said the school system is cooperating with the investigation and addressed Williams’ employment status.

“We are both shocked and saddened to learn of these charges brought forth and are fully cooperating in this ongoing investigation with the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office,” Rowland said. “Student safety is always our top concern, and we want parents and the Haughton community to know Mr. Williams is no longer an employee of Bossier Schools as of today. It is understandable that students at Haughton High may have questions or concerns, and we encourage them to please talk with our school counselors, who are there for them.”

During the investigation, Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested Williams at the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office Criminal Operations Building.

Following his arrest, Williams was transported to the Bossier Parish Maximum Security Facility, where he was booked on 50 counts of molestation of a juvenile and 50 counts of felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile. His bond has been set at $750,000.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges and victims are possible as detectives continue their investigation.

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Williams, or anyone with information relevant to this investigation, is encouraged to contact Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives at 318-965-3418.

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Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith presented the department’s monthly crime statistics to the Shreveport City Council.

Smith highlighted continued declines in sex crimes, robberies, vehicle thefts, vehicle burglaries, residential burglaries and shootings.

While homicides remain above last year’s total, the Shreveport Police Department has achieved an approximately 70% homicide clearance rate in 2026, compared to a national average of roughly 55%.

Fatal crashes remain a concern. Caddo Parish leads Louisiana in traffic fatalities, with Shreveport accounting for a significant portion of those numbers. Thirty-one people have been killed in crashes within the city this year.

Suspected impairment involving either a driver or pedestrian was a factor in 10 crashes, while 10 crashes involved pedestrians in the roadway.

Smith urged drivers and pedestrians to remain alert, use caution and never drink and drive.

Smith also recognized the Shreveport Police Department’s DWI Unit, which has made more than 400 DWI arrests in 2026 and is on pace for another record-setting year.

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Shreveport Police Department officers arrested Patrick Seamster on Sept. 21 following an alleged robbery and sexual battery at a business at 809 Olive Street.

According to police, Seamster allegedly entered the business, assaulted the clerk, forced the victim into a restroom and committed a sexual battery. He then allegedly stole cigarettes and money before fleeing on foot.

Patrol officers established a perimeter, and K-9 Edy, with assistance from K-9 officers Strawn and Pinkley, located and apprehended Seamster.

Seamster received medical treatment for a dog bite before being booked into the Shreveport City Jail for simple robbery and sexual battery.

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Caddo and Bossier parishes will see mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions through the weekend, with temperatures reaching the mid 90s and increasing chances of showers and thunderstorms early next week.

Wednesday will be mostly sunny, with highs in the mid 90s. Northeast winds will range from 5 to 10 mph. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy in the evening before becoming mostly cloudy, with lows in the upper 60s and northeast winds of 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday will be partly cloudy, with highs around 90 and northeast winds of 5 to 10 mph. Thursday night will be partly cloudy, with lows in the mid 60s and northeast winds around 5 mph.

Friday will be partly cloudy, with highs in the lower 90s. Friday night will be mostly cloudy, with lows in the upper 60s.

Saturday will be mostly cloudy, with highs in the mid 90s. Saturday night will remain mostly cloudy, with lows in the upper 60s.

Sunday will be mostly cloudy, with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs will be in the mid 90s, with a 20 percent chance of rain. Sunday night will be mostly cloudy in the evening before becoming partly cloudy, with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the evening and a slight chance of showers. Lows will be in the upper 60s, with a 20 percent chance of rain.

Monday will be partly cloudy with a slight chance of showers and a slight chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs will be in the lower 90s, with a 20 percent chance of rain. Monday night will be mostly cloudy, with a slight chance of showers after midnight. Lows will be in the upper 60s, with a 20 percent chance of rain.

Tuesday will be mostly cloudy, with a chance of showers and a slight chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs will be in the lower 90s, with a 40 percent chance of rain.

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Southwood High School has been recognized as Caddo Parish’s newest Purple Star School.

Southwood Principal LaToria Grant and the school’s administrative team received the official Purple Star banner from Dr. Ernise Singleton, Assistant Superintendent of Career and College Readiness with the Louisiana Department of Education.

The Purple Star designation recognizes schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to serving students and families connected to the United States Armed Forces.

Purple Star Schools put specific supports in place for military-connected students, including a designated military liaison, resources for families and a student-led transition program to help students feel welcomed and supported when they enter a new school.

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As many of you know, I was adopted by my aunt and uncle, Laverne & Loyd Graf Jr., when I was 10 years old. They quickly became mom and dad for me. My biological mom, Alta Mae, was not capable of raising two young boys. After starting and struggling through the first grade in Rosenburg, Texas, I was failing school and they rescued me from Houston, Texas, and brought me to Mt. Pleasant just after Christmas. 

I was enrolled in Vivian Fowler School at that time and did extra work into the summer as I got caught up enough to be passed on to the second grade. It was also at this time that I started my youth baseball career in 1968 while spending the entire summer with Mom and Dad.

One place that holds a special place in my heart, as I spent many a day there, was my Dad’s ranch. Graf Brothers Ranch was a partnership between my Dad and his brother William Ed Graf (Uncle Bill). Uncle Bill was the proud owner of a trucking company in Ft. Worth and was basically a financial partner of the ranch more than anything else. 

He had two sons who would come to the ranch once every few months. One of these cousins, Matt, and I became close, as we both loved to hunt and fish. With our ranch having three different stock ponds loaded with bass, Matt and I basically taught ourselves how to bass fish. 

We both subscribed to Bassmaster Magazine and would read each one cover to cover while learning about new baits and techniques. Then when he would come to the ranch, we would go and apply what we learned. 

Those stock ponds were a great training ground for learning how to fish and understanding bass behavior. Matt and I shared some great times for years until we got into our teens. Then I got more involved in sports and those fishing get-togethers became few and far between. 

I still cherish those early childhood memories with Matt even though those trips dwindled over time as he also made fewer trips to the ranch. We’ve lost touch with each other over the years, but I’m sure he has fond memories like me.

One thing ranch life taught me was good work ethic. A ranch does not run itself as it takes a lot of man hours to keep things running smoothly. We weren’t what many would call a big ranch, but we did run anywhere from 100-150 head of cattle depending on the time of year. 

A ranch is a constant work in progress with doctoring cattle, building fences, working on barns, and cutting and hauling hay to make sure cattle were fed even when weather was bad. There are no days off when you own a cattle ranch. Cattle need attention and must be checked on daily, especially when cows were getting ready to calf. 

There was one job I absolutely hated! It’s what my Dad called “piling chunks.” On our ranch we owned both sides of the main road with one side all pastureland while the other side was half-timber and pasture. But over time Dad cleared some of the timber to create more pasture. 

We owned a large D9 bulldozer that Dad used to clear the timber. As he dropped trees on the ground, smaller limbs that fell off the trees had to be picked up. We would then pile them up in small burn piles. This is what dad referred to as “piling chunks!” This process was hard work and took many hours over several weeks to get the job done.

There are many things that shaped me as a person, but the lessons I learned from growing up on a ranch were invaluable. My Dad was a man of few words and was not touchy-feely. He never really shared his personal feelings, but he did believe in hard work and taught me the value of this concept and how it builds character. 

The ranch for me was a training ground on not just hard work, but on developing my skills as an angler and a hunter. It gave me the freedom to learn how to hunt deer and squirrels and how to catch a bass.  

The number of hours I spent on my own in the woods and around our stock ponds starting at the age of 10 was endless. Most kids today don’t know how to be by themselves all day, making one cast after another and learning how to catch a bass. 

Kids today don’t grow up sitting on a single 2×6 board nailed between two limbs in a tree for deer hunting. They’ve never built a duck blind on the bank of a stock pond and enjoyed a good hunt, and when you shot a duck over the water, you had to wait until the wind blew the duck to the bank so you could retrieve it. 

Kids today would consider the work I did as kid a form of child abuse. Again, my parents did not sugar coat anything. Love, while not openly expressed much in our family, was understood. They had goals and expectations for both me and my brother whether it was a job to be done or school. 

We never did without anything that was essential. My Mom and Dad provided for us as a family and made sure my brother and I had everything we needed to not only enjoy life, but to be successful.

I literally would not trade anything for the time I had growing up on Graf Brothers Ranch, as it taught me everything I needed to succeed in whatever path I chose for the rest of my life.   

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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On Sept. 23, 2016, an unusual item went up for auction in Los Angeles: the cremated remains of famed author Truman Capote.

Capote, best known for “In Cold Blood” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” died in 1984 at the age of 59. His ashes had been kept by Joanne Carson, a close friend of Capote and former wife of “Tonight Show” host Johnny Carson.

The ashes were housed in a carved Japanese wooden box and were offered as part of Julien’s Auctions’ “Icons & Idols: Hollywood” sale. The auction house estimated the remains at $4,000 to $6,000.

When the auction concluded the following day, Capote’s ashes sold for $43,750 to an anonymous buyer. The sale attracted interest from potential buyers in the United States as well as Russia, Germany, China and South America.

The ashes were not the only unusual Capote memorabilia offered at the auction. His clothing, prescription bottles and other personal belongings were also sold.

According to the auction house, Capote had told Carson that he did not want his ashes to simply sit on a shelf, making the unusual auction an especially fitting final chapter to the author’s colorful public life.

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Christi Williams Breithaupt, of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the age of 65, following a brief illness.

A visitation and memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Keithville in Keithville, Louisiana, on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed immediately by the memorial service at 2:00 p.m. Officiating the service will be Rev. Mike Stowell.

Born on February 9, 1961, Christi was the daughter of Jere I. and Bobbie F. Williams. She was raised in Keithville, Louisiana. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Lynn Williams Ruddell.

Christi is survived by her husband, Justin Burns Breithaupt, Jr., her six children, Chelsi Gibbons Daquanno (Lee), Jacquelyn Breithaupt, Madison Gibbons, Juelie Breithaupt Gish (Brandon), Jennifer Breithaupt, and Colby Breithaupt (Clare Beth), and her six grandchildren, Lilah Barnes, Evie Daquanno, Elliot Daquanno, Kelly Gish, Brett Breithaupt, and Easton Breithaupt. Also to cherish her memory are her brother, Paul Sicilia (Kacie), her sister Traci Williams Miguez (John), many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Christi attended Grawood Christian School in Keithville and graduated in 1979. She later earned her accounting degree from Louisiana State University Shreveport. In the late 80’s, Christi moved to South Carolina, where she married and started her family. After being widowed, she returned to Shreveport with her three young children. There, she met and married Justin Breithaupt in 2000. Together, they blended their beautiful family of six children, who became Christi’s full-time focus and calling. Christi and Justin were married for over 26 years.

As a beloved wife, mother, Mimi, sister, aunt, friend, and servant of Christ whose love reached far beyond her own home, one of the roles she cherished most was being Mimi to her six grandchildren. She put thousands of miles on her vehicle to be present for most everything. She was always traveling to celebrate birthdays, attend school functions, and share in the moments that mattered most. If there was a need, Christi met it. Everyone knew they could call her. She made each of her children and grandchildren feel seen, known, and loved with her one-on-one special attention. She adored her siblings, nieces, and nephews and was excited when she could spend time with them. Holidays were her time to shine, making the family celebrations feel magical with the Christi touch and flair that only she could do.

Generous with her time, talents, and resources, Christi delighted in making memories. She adored all things Disney and shared that joy through special family trips. She also loved attending Boston Red Sox games with her son. Dolly Parton held a special place in Christi’s heart, and she enjoyed shopping and creating beautiful spaces. Home decorating was one of her true gifts; her home was warm, beautiful, and thoughtfully curated, with no detail overlooked.

Christi’s quiet humor and mischievous spirit brought joy to those around her. When she chose to make a comment or observation, it was often delivered with her unmistakable grin and left those around her laughing. She was beautiful, inside and out.

To be Christi’s friend was to be richly blessed. She loved her friends fiercely and knew how to show up for them in the ways they needed most. Her soft heart was full of compassion, and her loyalty to those she loved was unwavering.

In recent years, Christi volunteered with Samaritan’s Purse, serving communities devastated by natural disasters. She believed that even a small offering of time and labor could make a difference in someone’s life, serving as far away as the flood in North Carolina, and she worked tirelessly on behalf of people facing difficult days. Her service reflected her faith in Jesus Christ and her desire to follow His example by loving and serving others in their time of need.

The world is a little less bright without Christi, but the warmth of her love, laughter, faith, and beautiful spirit will live on in the many lives she touched.

The family would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the medical team and staff at Ochsner LSU Health Stem Cell Transplant Unit, ICU, Willis Knighton Pierremont North and Carpenter House Hospice for their excellent care.

Memorial donations in Christi’s memory may be made to Samaritan’s Purse International Relief, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607, or online through the organization’s website.

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Visitation for Wanda Faye (Bobo) Whittaker will be Saturday, September 26, 2206, at 10:00 a.m. with funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Rose Neath Funeral Home Chapel in Minden, Louisiana with Bro. Willie Bryan officiating. Interment will follow at Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Minden, Louisiana.

Wanda was born July 22, 1935, in Lafayette County, Arkansas to the late Ernest and Mable McCoy Bobo, and entered into rest on September 21, 2026, in Minden, Louisiana.

Wanda graduated from Springhill High School in Springhill, Arkansas. She was a homemaker, a loving mother and worked as a bank officer at LB&T in Shreveport, Louisiana.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, John Whittaker, brother, Rev. J.W. Bobo, and sisters, Louise Cummings and Ernestine Beck.

She is survived by her loving companion, Keith Alton of Minden; son, Dr. Ronald Ellis (Cissy) of Monroe; daughters, Sandra Strickland (Roger) of Minden and Kay Love of Memphis TN; stepson, Keith Michael Alton (Christy) of Shongaloo; stepdaughters, Kelly Scroggins (Warren), Rhonda Alton, and Mandy Craig; sister, Sylvia Ann Owens of McCaskill, AR; grandchildren, Ben Adams, Luke Adams, Brooklyn Love, Sydney Burnett (Kelvis), and Elija Love; step-grandchildren, Slade Hampton (Brandi), Trippe Hampton (Tara), Patches Euchaski, Emily Rudd, Preston Alton, and Skyler Smith; great grandchildren, eleven; great great-grandchildren, seven, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Ben Adams, Luke Adams, Keith Michael Alton, Ty Adams, Preston Alton, and Kelvis Burnett.

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations to St Jude Children’s Hospital or the charity of your choice.

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The restrooms at Betty Virginia Park are temporarily closed due to a mechanical failure.

The public is asked not to attempt to use or flush the toilets while the restrooms are closed, as repeated flushing could cause the system to back up and overflow.

Crews will be on site on the morning of Sept. 23 to make repairs.

SPAR will provide an update when the restrooms are available for use again.

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The Bossier-Shreveport region has been named one of the 2026 Great American Defense Communities in the nation, recognizing the region’s longstanding commitment to supporting Airmen, military families and veterans.

Bossier City and Shreveport officials joined community, business and military leaders at the Highland Jazz & Blues Festival in Columbia Park to celebrate the recognition.

The Great American Defense Community flag was presented during Saturday’s festival, bringing together the communities of Bossier City and Shreveport to celebrate the people and partnerships that support the region’s military community.

The recognition reflects the involvement of civic leaders, businesses, residents and military families in supporting those who serve.

Bossier City celebrated Barksdale Air Force Base and the men and women who call Northwest Louisiana home.

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Bossier High School has been designated a Louisiana Purple Star School, recognizing its support for military-connected students and their families.

Dr. Ernise Singleton from the Louisiana Department of Education visited the campus to present the official banner to Principal Dr. Billy Neill.

Earning the designation requires meeting high standards of support for military-connected students and their families.

The Bossier Chamber of Commerce also named Bossier High a Military Champion and presented the school with a $250 award.

Bossier High is the 29th Purple Star School in Bossier Parish. Bossier Schools serves more than 3,200 military families.

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