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The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, through Community Relations and Crime Prevention, is launching Stop With the Excuses, a call to action for parents and guardians of at-risk youth to intervene early before risky behavior leads to long-term consequences. The program focuses on the critical role parents play in influencing their children’s behavior.

Participants will receive practical guidance on setting firm limits, enforcing consequences, improving communication, and identifying early warning signs. The class also emphasizes the importance of positive parental involvement and consistent expectations as key tools in keeping youth on a safer path.

The class will be held:

Wednsday, January 28, 2026

10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

1501 Corporate Drive Shreveport, LA 71107

Parents and guardians are encouraged to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to gain resources, support, and strategies that can make a lasting difference. For more information or assistance, contact Community Relations and Crime Prevention at 318-681-0869.

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Local volunteers marked Louisiana Arbor Day on Jan. 16 by planting new trees in the town of Plain Dealing as part of a beautification effort led by Keep Bossier Beautiful.

According to the Bossier Parish Police Jury, 20 volunteers planted 25 dogwood trees at several locations throughout the community, including Plain Dealing City Hall, the city park, the community center, and around the town’s welcome sign. The tree-planting event was held in partnership with the City of Plain Dealing.

The project was made possible through a grant from the Arbor Day Foundation and aimed to enhance public spaces while promoting environmental stewardship within the community.

While National Arbor Day is observed in April, Louisiana celebrates Arbor Day in January due to the state’s climate. January is considered one of the most favorable times of year for planting trees, allowing roots to establish before warmer temperatures arrive.

Organizers said the effort reflects an ongoing commitment to community beautification and sustainability across Bossier Parish.

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The City of Shreveport will kick off the Mardi Gras season with the Krewe of Harambee Parade on Monday, Jan. 19.

The parade is scheduled to roll at 1 p.m. and will follow a route through downtown Shreveport. It will begin at the intersection of Milam Street and Common Street, traveling east before turning north onto Edwards Street. The route will then head west along Texas Street. Upon reaching Common Street, the parade will jog north to Sprague Street before concluding at Douglas Street.

City officials announced that the entire parade route will be closed to traffic beginning at noon to ensure public safety during the event. Motorists are advised to plan accordingly and avoid the area during the closure.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and gather along the route to celebrate the start of Mardi Gras in Shreveport. The parade marks one of the first major Carnival events of the season in the city.

The Krewe of Harambee Parade is open to the public and designed as a family-friendly celebration of culture, community, and Carnival tradition.

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Born on April 23, 1985, the second “Smith” sister, Lindsay Clare, was a vibrant, tenacious, and unforgettable presence in the lives of all who knew her. She was a friend to countless throughout her life. During her formative years Lindsay attended All Saints’ Episcopal where she excelled in sports, especially soccer. Lindsay not only played soccer at Lees McRae College in Banner Elk, NC, she also sporadically joined the ski team. This was not a surprise to those who knew and loved her and her adventurous spirit. She was known for her natural sense of comedy and owning the room’s attention- making everyone laugh in the most ordinary moments. Her humor brought life and comfort to those around her. Lindsay loved the Lord professing her faith to many.

Lindsay lived her life to the fullest, embracing each day with joy and courage, and bravely serving the country she dearly loved. Lindsay served in the US Army as a surgical technician for twelve years. During this time, she deployed twice to Afghanistan, completed her jump master training, and served as a drill sergeant. Lindsay consistently followed excitement and never backed down from a challenge. Accompanied by the love of her life, Chris, she spent her final years being an amazing boy-mom to three stepsons and one son of her own. She loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

Lindsay Clare is preceded in death by her mother and father, Richard and Liesa Smith. She is survived by her devoted husband, Chris Goodman, and his sons, Gunner, Landon, and Seth, her son, Axton Campbell, her sisters, Ledah Smith, Lacrissa Swan, and Leigh Sperier, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who love and cherish her dearly.

A graveside memorial service will be held January 30, 2026, at 11:30 AM at Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery. This will be followed by a Celebration of Life at Open Door Bible Church, located at 905 Swan Lake Rd. Bossier City, LA 71111.

Lindsay Clare Goodman will be remembered for her laughter, her love, and the joy she brought into every room she entered. She will be deeply missed and remembered by all. Her faith was a source of strength, and we take comfort in knowing she now rests peacefully in the arms of the Lord.

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On Friday, January 16, 2026, we said goodbye (for now) to Carol Ann (Bard) Letsinger, who was born on April 3, 1947, in Vivian, Louisiana, to Sam W. Bard and Evelyn Hudak Bard.

Carol lived with a steady kind of strength, the kind you didn’t always notice at first because she made it look natural. She built a life rooted in devotion, family, and faithful follow-through. If you ever wondered what quiet love looks like in action, you could see it in Carol.

On August 20, 1967, she married Ralph William Letsinger Jr. Their story began when she was a freshman and he was a senior at Kenedy High School in Kenedy, Texas, and together they shared 58 years of marriage, partnership, and friendship. Carol valued connection and community throughout her life and was a longtime member of Beta Sigma Phi, as well as a faithful participant in multiple Bunco clubs over the years.

Carol’s career reflected her versatility and work ethic. She served as one of the first staff secretaries at Stroman High School, worked as a price checker for H-E-B, and held positions supporting doctors at Gulf Bend and as secretary of the Victoria Medical Society. She later became HR Director at Gulf Bend, worked for the Texas Lottery, served in the Trust Department at Victoria Bank & Trust, and then spent the final 25 years of her career as the Office Manager at Alexander & Marek, CPAs. Wherever she worked, people counted on Carol because she was capable, consistent, and quietly excellent at making things run well.

While working, Carol and Ralph raised two sons: Bard Ingram Letsinger, and Brek William Letsinger.
Later, Carol became Nana to her grandchildren, Braiden, Jack, Kate, and Kailee, and she loved playing games and baking with them. Carol also loved her dogs fiercely, always rescue dogs, and she consistently supported local animal adoption efforts.

Christmas was one of Carol’s favorite times of year. She loved decorating the house and the yard, and she was known for her cinnamon hard candy, peanut butter and chocolate buckeyes, and Christmas sugar cookies. She recruited help the way all great moms and Nanas do: the boys first, and later the grandkids, all lined up to decorate cookies and “taste test” along the way.

After retiring, Carol got to live out one of her dreams of traveling, not just in the states but around the world. Some of her favorite places included Milan, Amsterdam, Venice and New York City. Still, her favorite destination was always Walt Disney World in Florida. She traveled so often that staff at the Marriott at Houston’s Intercontinental Airport and Disney’s Beach Club Resort knew her by name. Carol also became the go-to Disney planner for many of her friends, happily helping families plan trips and make the most of their time together.

Carol loved coffee and was a devoted member of Fellowship of the Crossroads, where she especially enjoyed the church coffee shop, a ministry she had a large part in helping become a reality. Her faith was lived out not loudly, but faithfully, in the way she loved people, served others, and showed up day after day.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Sam W. Bard and Evelyn Hudak Bard. She is survived by her beloved husband, Ralph William Letsinger Jr.; her sister, Sandra Johnson of Bulverde, Texas; her sons, Bard Letsinger and wife Mollie of Victoria, TX, and Brek Letsinger and wife Ericca of Victoria, TX; and her grandchildren, Braiden Letsinger and wife Angel of Conroe, TX, Jack Letsinger of Austin, TX, Kate Meador and husband Logan of San Antonio, TX, and Kailee Jaksch and husband Trevor of Round Rock, TX, and one great-grandchild expected in July 2026.

Visitation will be at Grace Funeral Home at 2401 Houston Hwy, on Friday, January 23 from 6:00-8:00 PM. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 1:00 PM at Fellowship of the Crossroads, 597 Haynes Road in Victoria with the Rev. Scott Weatherford and Rev. Bard Letsinger presiding.

Interment will be at Memory Gardens. Pallbearers will be Braiden Letsinger, Jack Letsinger, Trevor Jaksch, Logan Meador, Bobby Schneider, Canyon Schneider, Troy Mcintosh, and Kyle Kizer.

The family would like to express special thanks to Carol’s care team, especially Kelly Rankin, Elizabeth Gainer, Kelsey Laredo, Alyson Plant, Kim Wagner, and Brittany Wagner, along with the staff at Sodalis Assisted Living Facility and Hospice of South Texas, for their compassion, care, and kindness. The family is also deeply grateful to the many friends, church family, and loved ones who surrounded Carol and Ralph with prayers, encouragement, meals, visits, and steady support over the past few years.

Carol’s life was a gift, faithfully given. Her love lives on in her family, her friendships, and in the countless ordinary moments she made extraordinary simply by being who she was.

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Louisiana Department of Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple issued a notice of license revocation and $25,000 fine to Victor Llanito and his Shreveport agency, SBC Bail Bonds LLC on Jan. 13.

The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) issued the revocation and fine after finding that Llanito and SBC Bail Bonds LLC violated Louisiana’s unfair trade practice laws and receiving information to support the action. Llanito is alleged to have used agency funds to facilitate human trafficking and to have committed false imprisonment.

“I took this action in the interest of protecting the public,” said Commissioner Temple. “I’m grateful for the hard work of the LDI’s Office of Insurance Fraud that resulted in the revocation of his license.”

Llanito and SBC Bail Bonds LLC were previously served with a summary suspension in December. The LDI received reports that Llanito and SBC Bail Bonds continued to engage in the business of issuing bail bonds after the suspension to the detriment and endangerment of Louisiana citizens.

Llanito and SBC Bail Bonds LLC have 30 days from the time of service to request an administrative appeal or the action becomes final.

Anyone who believes they have been defrauded or witnessed insurance fraud can report their suspicions by phone at (225) 342-4956 or online at http://www.ldi.la.gov/reportfraud.

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A Bossier City man on probation for domestic abuse battery with serious body injury was convicted in Caddo District Court on Jan. 13 of cocaine possession.

Tresmone Devoue Kennedy, 35, was found responsively guilty of simple possession of a schedule II narcotic by the six-woman jury in District Judge Erin Leigh Waddell-Garrett’s court after deliberations that took less than an hour.

Through testimony from arresting officers, investigators and physical evidence, jurors learned that on March 31, 2023, Kennedy was stopped for a traffic violation in the 1600 Block of Centenary Boulevard and was found to be in possession of a digital scale, packaging materials and just over 5.2 grams of cocaine. He also admitted to possessing and ingesting cocaine, a Schedule II CDS.

When Kennedy returns for sentencing on March 19, 2026, he faces a prison term of from one to five years in prison with or without hard labor.

He was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Briana C. Spivey, Erica Jefferson and Jasmine Cooper. He was defended by Lauren Anderson.

The case was docket No. 394964.

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The first regular agenda meeting of 2026 marked a significant transition for the Bossier Parish Police Jury, with the selection of new leadership and key appointments to guide the parish through another year of growth and progress.

Outgoing Jury President Glenn Benton officially passed the gavel to incoming Jury President Tom Salzer, District 11 Police Juror. Salzer presented Benton with a commemorative plaque in recognition of his leadership and service during the past year. “We are excited for Tom this year,” said Benton. “As always, he will have my support and the full support of the Jury as he leads us this year.”

Tom Salzer, who was appointed to the Police Jury on November 22, 2016, following the passing of long-serving juror Wayne Hammack, expressed his enthusiasm for the year ahead. “This will be my second time serving as president of the jury, and I am excited about the work we did last year, but I am looking forward to the work we will do this year,” said Salzer. “My goal is to make sure we use all the avenues we have, whether it’s federal or state dollars, to help move the parish forward, so that we can continue to build on the explosive growth we are experiencing here in Bossier Parish.”

Joining Salzer in leadership is District 5 Juror Julianna Parks, who was elected Vice-President. “I’m honored to have been elected by my colleagues to help lead the jury this year,” Parks said. “I look forward to working with the President, the other jurors, and our dedicated staff to solve problems and improve the lives of residents in Bossier Parish.”

In addition to electing new officers, the jury made several key staff appointments:
• Dr. Ken Ward was reappointed as Parish Administrator for a one-year term.
• Mrs. Stacie Fernandez was reappointed as Parish Treasurer for a two-year term.
• Mrs. Ashley Ezell was appointed as the new Parish Secretary for a two-year term.

The meeting also included the unanimous passage of several agenda items aimed at promoting the health, safety, and well-being of Bossier Parish residents.

For more information about the Bossier Parish Police Jury and upcoming meetings, please visit http://www.bossierparishla.gov.

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The Shreveport Regional Arts Council is continuing conversations about the role of artificial intelligence in the arts following its AI Forum held Jan. 8.

Council officials said the forum brought together members of the local arts community to discuss concerns surrounding both the current and future impact of artificial intelligence on art and artists.

According to SRAC, the issues raised during the event highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue as technology continues to influence creative work.

SRAC described the forum as the starting point for a broader process that will help inform future practices and policies. The organization stated that its approach moving forward will remain focused on centering, prioritizing, and protecting authentic artists and their artistry.

The council indicated that additional discussions and updates are expected as this work progresses.

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Oscar “Lee” Matthews, Jr., 71, passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, LA. Lee was born on October 22, 1954, to Oscar and Quida Matthews in Texarkana, Arkansas.

Lee loved playing baseball, basketball, and tennis at school and in summer leagues. He graduated from Texas High School in 1973 and later attended and graduated from barber school in Dallas, Texas. He was a member of Westside Church of Christ.

He was a lifelong barber who took great pride in his work and the relationships he built in his chair. For him, a haircut was never just a haircut; it was a conversation, a connection, and often a shared love of music. Oscar loved music of all genres, and anyone who sat in his chair knew there was a good chance they would leave not only with a fresh cut but also with a few CDs he insisted they needed to hear.

He will be remembered for his generosity, his passion for music, and the countless friendships he formed through his work. Oscar’s presence, stories, and love of sharing what he enjoyed most will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Lee is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, and brother-in-law, Janice and George Wood, and his brother-in-law, Max Sewell. He is survived by his loving family and friends who will cherish his memory forever, his sister, Gayla Sewell, of Texarkana, Arkansas. One niece, Krista MacFarlane (Andrew); two nephews, Matt (Angela) Sewell of Valonia, Arkansas, and Nick (Robin) Sewell of Texarkana, Arkansas; and several cousins, great-nieces and nephews, and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Chapelwood Funeral Home, Nash, Texas, with Lance Mays officiating. Burial will follow in Chapelwood Memorial Gardens with Charles Lokey, Mason Clem, Jeff Bell, Matt and Nick Sewell, and Lee Cross serving as pallbearers. Eddie Brown, Phil Hughes, and Charles Strachan are serving as honorary pallbearers. A visitation will be held from 1:00 pm until service time at the funeral home.

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Daniel Clyde Keasler, Shreveport, LA age 70

Dan Keasler was promoted to God’s presence Sunday, January 11, 2026, after a difficult 1 1/2 year battle with cancer. Visitation for Dan’s family and friends will begin at 10:00 Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Broadmoor Baptist Church chapel, followed by a memorial service at 11:00.

Dan was born July 5, 1955, and lived all his life in Shreveport, LA. He began his welding career in 1975 and founded Alpha Welding and Fabrication in 1982. He treasured his relationships with his co-workers and clients.

As a young man, Dan spent a month backpacking in Washington on the Pacific Crest Trail. He became a hunter and was nicknamed “Zorro” for obvious reasons. He hunted deer, duck, elk, pheasant and various animals in South Africa. He loved being outdoors, camping, hunting, water and snow skiing. Dan became one of the best table tennis players in town. He played each week with other local top players and competed in several regional tournaments.

He developed close friendships with his Thursday lunch group of men and the C. Williams class at Broadmoor Baptist.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Jo, and his brother, Jim. Survivors are Bob and Therese Keasler, his brother and wife; JoAnn and Raymond Prestridge, his sister and husband; sister-in-law Lynn Turner and husband Mike. Dan had a lasting impact on his nieces and nephews: Jana, Nathan, Melissa, Carissa, Micah, Meghan, Fawn and Savanna. Special thanks go to his cousin Tim Horn for so much help during his illness. Dan has been described as godly, kind, generous, honest, a man of his word, and a man of convictions.

The family suggest memorials be made to any of the following:
Lottie Moon Fund of Broadmoor Baptist Church, 4110 Youree Dr., Shreveport, LA 71105,
Answers in Genesis, PO Box 510, Hebron, KY 41048,
American Family Association, PO Drawer 2440, Tupelo, MS 38803.

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The Shreveport City Council unanimously re-elected its officers for 2026 during a recent meeting.

Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor was re-elected to serve as chairwoman, while Councilwoman Ursula Bowman was re-elected as vice chairwoman. Both officers were selected by unanimous vote of the council.

The re-election of Taylor and Bowman maintains continuity in council leadership as the city enters the 2026 calendar year.

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Bossier Parish Fire District #1 conducted intensive confined-space training exercises for four probationary firefighters, focusing on search and rescue operations under challenging conditions.

The training tested both physical endurance and mental resilience as firefighters navigated simulated confined-space environments designed to mirror real-world emergency scenarios. Officials said exercises like these are critical for preparing firefighters to operate effectively when time-sensitive decisions and actions are required.

Department leaders noted that ongoing hands-on training helps ensure personnel are prepared to respond safely and efficiently during emergencies where confined-space rescues may be necessary.

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A new boat launch providing direct access to the Red River recently opened at John Franks Wildlife Management Area, expanding recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts in the Shreveport-Bossier City area.

The Twelve Mile Bayou Boat Launch was opened through a partnership between the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Red River Waterway Commission. The launch offers improved access for hunting, fishing, kayaking, and boating along the Red River.

According to LDWF, the new facility is part of ongoing efforts to expand public access to Louisiana’s waterways while supporting conservation and wildlife management goals. The boat ramp will be operated and maintained by LDWF as part of the John Franks Wildlife Management Area.

The Red River Waterway Commission maintains a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and LDWF for the management of mitigation properties associated with the Red River Waterway Project. These properties are incorporated into the state’s wildlife management area system.

Visitors to LDWF wildlife management areas are required to have a valid WMA Access Permit or an eligible hunting or fishing license, including senior, lifetime, or Louisiana Sportsman’s Paradise licenses.

Additional information on permits and access requirements is available through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

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Neil William Huard, age 82, passed away on Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born to the late Neil Louis Huard and Viola Farrer Huard on October 31, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan. Mr. Huard was preceded in death by his parents, sister Joan Cole, and brother Jim Huard.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Walta Gilbreath Huard of Flowery Branch, GA. His survivors also include his daughters Etta Anne (Tom) Elliott, Nicole Dolan (Robert) of Thompsons Station, TN, and Crissy Huard of Gainesville, GA. Additionally, he is survived by his grandchildren Ian, Erin, Sean (Kyra) Elliott, Anna, Emma Joy, Kate, and Maegan Dolan; his great-grandchild, Amelia; and many nieces and nephews.

Neil will be remembered for his love of walking, laughing, singing, spending time with his family, and his love for the Lord. He served in the US Air Force and was stationed in Thailand and Barksdale Air Force Base. Professionally, he worked as a Certified Public Accountant and built his own accounting firm, where he enjoyed serving his clients for many years. He spent his last few years in Georgia walking his little dog Jack and sitting on his back porch waving at cars as they went by.

Neil had been sick for several years and was well cared for by his family, Susan Cherian, and Pruitt Health Hospice. His family appreciates all the care that was given to him to allow him to stay at home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lakewood Baptist Church of Gainesville, Georgia, Mission’s ministry to honor Neil’s desire to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in the Chapel of Memorial Park Funeral Home at 1:00 PM. Dr. Tyler Smiley will officiate the service, and interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Memorial Park Funeral Homes, located at 2030 Memorial Park Drive, Gainesville, Georgia 30504, is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to memorialparkfuneralhomes.com

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Drive, Gainesville, Georgia 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.

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September 24, 1946 — January 9, 2026

Karl Dudley Tew, Sr., was a larger-than-life man whose story is defined by courage, adventure, and independence. Born on September 24, 1946, Dudley lived boldly and without hesitation, embracing life with a fearless spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Dudley was preceded in death by his mother, Bernice Campise, and his father, Orville Tew.

He is survived by his four children: Casey Bolen (David), and her children Emily and Daebo, along with three great-grandchildren; William “Billy” Tew, and his children Victoria, Abigail, and William; Karl “Tookie” Tew, Jr. (Carey), and their children Jake and Sawyer; and Stephaney Tew. He is also survived by his sister, Winnie Ainsworth, and many extended family members (especially Brooklyn Cassel) and friends who were touched by his remarkable life.

A proud United States Marine, Dudley carried the values of strength, resilience, and determination throughout his life. He was a successful business owner, operating local bars, grocery stores, and pawn shops, earning respect for his work ethic, sharp instincts, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Dudley was best known for his unmatched sense of adventure and fearless approach to life. An avid daredevil, he found excitement wherever it existed—catching alligators, handling snakes, and even owning venomous snakes, including cobras, gaboon vipers, and rattlesnakes. He was a scuba diver, barefoot skier, skydiver, pilot, and paraplane enthusiast. His stories included surviving a grouper swallowing his arm, noodling, and breaking his neck while riding a jet ski backwards—each tale told with humor, grit, and disbelief.

Dudley loved the water and the outdoors, spending time on his houseboat on Lake Ouachita, enjoying his Florida home, building a reef in the Orange River under his dock, and traveling whenever possible. He cherished adventures such as kayaking, bicycling, and sharing laughter and unforgettable memories along the way. Even the unexpected—like keeping a fainting goat—became part of the legend that was Dudley Tew.

Above all, Dudley lived fully, boldly, and unapologetically. While liver cancer was not on his bucket list, it was the final challenge that ended his escapades. His life was an adventure, his stories unforgettable, and his legacy lives on through his family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Honored to serve as pallbearers will be: Bill Geaslin, David Bolen, Edward Best, Karl “Tookie” Tew Jr., William “Billy” Tew, and William Tew.

Graveside Memorial service will be held at Forest Park West 4000 Meriwether Road, Shreveport on Friday, January 16th at 2:00pm.

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A Waskom, Texas man about to go on trial in Caddo District Court for a 2023 traffic collision that led to another man’s death pleaded guilty on Jan. 12 to vehicular homicide.

On July 18, 2023, Rodney Dan Lemay, 60, was driving home from work in the 6900 block of Woolworth Road when he swerved over the center line and struck head-on an oncoming vehicle driven by Jeffrey Merritt. Mr. Merritt, 60, had to be extracted from his vehicle. He was later pronounced deceased at a local hospital. Due to the serious injuries involved, routine toxicology samples were taken from Lemay, who was determined to have methamphetamine in his system.

District Judge Chris Victory sentenced Lemay to serve 10 years at hard labor, with three years of the sentence to be served without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence. Lemay also was ordered to pay a fine of $2,000.

Lemay was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Courtney N. Ray. He was defended by Michael Enright.

The case was docket No. 399951.

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Volunteers spent the morning of Jan. 10 turning more than 200 donated Christmas trees into new fish habitats at Cypress Black Bayou, part of Keep Bossier Beautiful’s annual conservation effort.

Community members and local businesses generously contributed the trees, which were collected and repurposed to provide shelter for young fish. Volunteers arrived early to remove twine and tags, drag the trees down the pier, and secure them with sandbags before loading them onto boats. The trees were then placed in designated fishing areas, where they will serve as protective cover and breeding grounds for fish.

After the work was completed, volunteers enjoyed a lunch sponsored by Keep America Beautiful.

This project highlights Keep Bossier Beautiful’s ongoing mission to creatively reduce, reuse, and recycle materials while engaging community members in meaningful environmental stewardship.

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The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities has named Pam Atchison, former director of the Shreveport Regional Arts Council, as the 2026 Champion of Culture as part of its 41st annual Bright Lights Awards.

The Champion of Culture honor recognizes individuals who have made lasting contributions to preserving, promoting, and advancing Louisiana’s cultural heritage. Atchison was selected for her decades-long leadership in the arts and her role in strengthening cultural access, advocacy, and creative development in northwest Louisiana.

Atchison served as executive director of the Shreveport Regional Arts Council for 38 years, leading the area’s largest arts nonprofit. The organization develops partnerships, produces programming, educates the community, and advocates for art and artists across Northwest Louisiana. She began working with the council as an artist-in-residence in the 1980s, during a period of financial instability for the organization.

Over the course of her tenure, Atchison expanded the council into a $3 million-per-year organization and launched ArtBreak, a citywide youth arts initiative designed to broaden access to creative education. Following an arson fire that destroyed the council’s offices, she worked with the City of Shreveport to relocate SRAC to the historic downtown Central Fire Station. The move helped spark renewed interest in adaptive reuse of historic buildings along Shreveport’s Texas Street corridor.

Atchison retired from the Shreveport Regional Arts Council in December 2024.

She is among several honorees announced this year by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities in partnership with Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser. Other 2026 Bright Lights Award recipients include Michael Doucet, musician and founder of BeauSoleil, named Humanist of the Year; the RosaMary and Keller Family Foundations, recipients of the Chair’s Award for Institutional Support; Kevin Rabalais, Documentary Photographer of the Year; Thomas Patterson, author of “American Populist: Huey Long of Louisiana,” recognized with the Humanities Book of the Year award; Sascha Just, whose film “What We Can Know About Edmond and Basile” earned Humanities Documentary Film of the Year; Don Marshall, honored for Lifetime Contributions to the Humanities; and Debra Jo Hailey, recipient of the Light Up for Literacy award.

For more than 40 years, the Bright Lights Awards have recognized individuals and organizations whose work strengthens the humanities statewide, including historians, authors, filmmakers, photographers, literacy advocates, and cultural leaders.

The 2026 awardees will be featured in the summer issue of 64 Parishes magazine, published by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, and formally recognized at the Bright Lights Awards Dinner on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the Capitol Park Museum in Baton Rouge. Tickets are available through the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities website.

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These days, the campaign trail doesn’t wind through town halls — it runs straight through your phone. This cartoon takes a swipe at modern politics, where selfies, likes, and viral moments can matter more than boring old things like healthcare or infrastructure. When the algorithm is watching, the question becomes: is the goal to solve problems, or just rack up views?

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Eloise Bullock Gibson, beloved wife, mother, artist, and volunteer, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, at the age of 84.

Born on March 25, 1941, on a farm in Harleton, Texas, Eloise carried with her a deep sense of purpose, creativity, and service throughout her life. She and her husband lived for many years in New Orleans, Louisiana, before settling in Magnolia, Arkansas in the 1970s, where they built their first home together. In 1981, the family moved to Shreveport, Louisiana, where Eloise and her husband made their home for the remainder of their lives.

Eloise was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Gibson, III; her parents, Mary Grace Starr and William Homer Bullock; and her sister, Delores D. Grimes.

She is survived by her son, Charles Gibson, IV, whom she adopted in June of 1975 and loved with unwavering devotion. Being a mother was one of Eloise’s greatest joys and proudest roles.

Eloise was widely recognized for her artistic talent, leadership, and service to others. She was selected by the State of Arkansas for her calligraphic work, which was published as part of the Bicentennial volume Mothers of Achievement in American History (1776–1976), including her commissioned creation of the Arkansas State Seal featured in the book. In 1976, she was honored as an Outstanding Young Woman of America, an award presented through the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce.

A lifelong advocate for service and education, Eloise held leadership roles with numerous organizations, including serving as Chairman of the American Mother Committee in the mid-1970s and as a member of the National Board of Directors for Volunteers of America, where she received multiple honors for her dedication and impact. She was also an active member of the Association for the Calligraphic Arts and exhibited her work in art festivals and exhibitions throughout Arkansas, Texas, and beyond.

Eloise was deeply committed to education, both as a student and a teacher. She earned degrees from Southern Arkansas University and Baptist Christian College, and she shared her love of calligraphy through teaching at the collegiate level.

Above all, Eloise will be remembered for her strength, creativity, generosity, and enduring love for her family. Her life reflected quiet leadership, service to others, and an unwavering commitment to leaving the world better than she found it.

A visitation will be held at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall St., Shreveport, Louisiana on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

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Taylor Brown met his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the early hours of Sunday, January 11th , 2026, after complications of heart surgery.

Taylor grew up in Monticello, the baby in a loving family with sisters that pampered him until his last day on earth. He went to University of Arkansas and stayed faithful to his roots and college. Joyce and he remained loyal University of Arkansas Razorback supporters encouraging education along with sports. Football season would find them and their family in their stadium box. They shared their extra seats and tickets with family and friends on many occasions. Generosity was paramount with the Browns. Taylor “Daddy T” and Joyce “MiMi” enjoyed many trips to Oklahoma to see their kids and grandkids. The family gatherings in Fayetteville for football and baseball games were truly “must attend” events!

The Browns were members of First Baptist Church of Keithville; East Ridge Country Club; and Taylor was past member of Louisiana Society of CPAs, Downtown Rotary Club; Krewe of Gemini where he served as King Gemini XXVI, and Shreveport Petroleum Club.

Professional life was as a CPA for forty-five years, most of the time as a partner with Miller & Brown C.P.A. forging many life-long customers that became true friends.

Taylor is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Williams Brown, and son, Jason Taylor Brown and his wife, Angie Dyan, of Jenks, Oklahoma; grandsons, Alec Taylor, Logan David (Akasha Marina), Cason Aaron, and Hope Dyan; great granddaughter, Marina Rose Brown, all of the Tulsa area; sisters, Peggy Brown Kelly of Monticello, Judy Brown Selig (Butch) of Benton, Arkansas, and Paul Reed, brother-in-law, of Conway, Arkansas.

Preceded in death by his parents, James Enoch and Henri Hope Taylor Brown, and his sister, Betty Brown Reed, of Monticello, and many nieces and nephews. Taylor’s parents instilled God, honesty, integrity, and the value of hard work from an early age; following those ethics until his sudden passing.

Taylor made many trips from Shreveport to Arkansas during his dad’s last years to visit and nurture his dad. Trips he was honored to make. He and Joyce pampered her mom in their home for 18 years.

Celebration of life services will be held at First Baptist Church of Keithville, 6295 Williams Road, Keithville, LA on Thursday, January 15th, 2026. Visitation is 10:00 AM followed by service at 11:00 AM. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Officiating will be Pastor Byron Copeland of Dallas, TX and Reverend Michael Stowell, both loved Taylor and loved by Taylor. Pallbearers will be grandsons Alec, Logan and Cason; Butch Selig, Tim Kelly and Matt Clark. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Keithville and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

”For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

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The Parish of Caddo is inviting the public to celebrate the grand reopening of the Walter B. Jacobs Nature Center on Saturday, Jan. 17 marking a major milestone in outdoor education and nature-based recreation for the region.

The celebration will begin with a special ribbon cutting and announcement at 9:30 a.m., followed by the official opening of the facility’s doors at 10 a.m. The event will feature a special statewide announcement from the Office of the Lieutenant Governor.

The newly completed 24,000-square-foot facility is the first of its kind in the region and offers a dynamic, immersive experience for visitors of all ages. The upgraded Nature Center includes interactive exhibits, live animal displays, a birds of prey aviary, five miles of outdoor hiking trails, and beautifully designed outdoor spaces that showcase the natural beauty of Caddo Parish.

The facility also features a large event space available for rental, capable of hosting gatherings of up to 400 attendees, making it a unique venue for community events, meetings, and celebrations.

“This project represents the vision and commitment of our citizens and our Parish to invest in spaces that enrich quality of life,” said Erica R. Bryant, Caddo Parish Administrator/CEO. “From the moment the citizens of Caddo Parish approved the Center’s upgrade in 2022, our team has worked tirelessly to create a destination that inspires learning, exploration, and appreciation for nature. We are incredibly proud to welcome residents and visitors alike to a space designed for everyone to enjoy,” said Bryant.

The Walter B. Jacobs Nature Center is designed for families, students, and individuals of all ages, offering both educational and recreational opportunities in a welcoming environment.

Exhibit Center Admission:
All outdoor spaces, hiking trails, and the birds of prey aviary are free to the public.
$8 – Adults (ages 19–64)
$5 – Seniors (65+)
$5 – Active Duty Military and Veterans
$5 – Students (ages 3–18)
Free – Children 2 and under

The Parish of Caddo encourages the community to attend the grand reopening and experience firsthand this transformative addition to the region’s outdoor and educational offerings.

For more information about the Walter B. Jacobs Nature Center or upcoming programming, visit caddoparks.org.

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