K9 Karo once again proved why he is one of the Shreveport Police Department’s most valuable crime fighters.

While assisting the U.S. Marshals Violent Offender Task Force, officers served a felony warrant on Jose F. Caal Pop (DOB: 12/17/1997), who was wanted out of New Jersey on charges including aggravated sexual assault, sexual battery, and molestation of a juvenile after allegedly fleeing to Louisiana to evade capture.

Despite repeated commands, the suspect refused to surrender and remained hidden inside the residence. That’s when K9 Karo was deployed.

Karo quickly tracked the suspect to the second floor of the home, where he engaged and apprehended him, bringing the standoff to a swift and safe conclusion. The suspect sustained minor injuries, was treated at the scene, and was transported to the Shreveport City Jail for booking pending extradition.

When suspects choose to hide instead of surrender, they should remember one thing: K9 Karo doesn’t quit until the job is done.

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The Bossier Chamber of Commerce welcomed new teachers to Bossier Parish during a school outreach event July 31.

The Chamber partnered with Bossier Schools to connect with more than 100 educators and provide classroom start-up materials.

The organization said the event offered an opportunity for the local business community to welcome new teachers as they prepare for the upcoming school year.

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South Bossier Medical officially broke ground July 31 on a new facility that will replace its current building.

Once completed, the new facility will bring together Family Practice, Community RX Pharmacy, Outpatient Physical Therapy and Imaging in one location. South Bossier Medical said its clinic and pharmacy will continue operating from the current building throughout construction, allowing patient care to continue without interruption.

The organization said it is excited to continue growing alongside the South Bossier community.

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Funeral services for Charles Clayton Self, 51, will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Officiating the service will be Brother Casey Sanders.

Charles was born on October 19, 1974 to Charles Eugene Self and Marion Lynn Self in Shreveport, Louisiana and passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026 in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Marion Self.

He is survived by his daughter, Kami Self, of Shreveport, Louisiana.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Many, Louisiana.

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Gerald (Wayne) Luker passed away on July 27, 2026, in Shreveport, Louisiana, following a brief but courageous battle with esophageal cancer. While he may have lost his fight on earth, he won the ultimate victory and is now at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

Wayne was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, on February 7, 1960, to the late William Fred Luker and Mary Lou Tullos Luker. He was a proud 1978 graduate of Woodlawn High School. Following school and a few odd jobs, Wayne found his true professional calling in the forklift industry, a career that spanned an incredible 46 years, including the last decade with Deep South Equipment in Shreveport.

Above all else, Wayne loved his family. He took tremendous pride in being an “Old Dad,” but his greatest joy in recent years was his granddaughters, who were truly the light of his world. When he wasn’t spending time with his family, Wayne could usually be found fishing, working in the yard, grilling, or mastering his famous smoked turkeys.

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Cynthia Castrogiovanni Luker; his sons, Anthony Wayne Luker and Christopher Cody Luker; and his cherished granddaughters, Oaklynn MacKenzie Luker and Sunny Kate Luker.

He also leaves behind his brothers, William Fred Luker Jr. of Shreveport, LA, and Donald Ray Luker and wife Brandy of Covington, LA; sister-in-law, Denise Castrogiovanni McKelvain and husband David Wayne McKelvain of Hosston, LA; brother-in-law, Malvern Joseph Castrogiovanni, Jr. and wife Cheryl Ball Castrogiovanni of Texarkana, TX; one nephew and six nieces.

In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Malvern Joseph Castrogiovanni, Sr.; his mother-in-law, Patricia McCann Castrogiovanni; and his grandparents, Frank L. Luker, Lilah Luker, Charles W. Tullos, Lela Mae Tullos, Johnnie B. McCann, and James Loye McCann

Celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

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The Shreveport Police Department is continuing to investigate a shooting that occurred at 2400 LeGardy Street. Police said the 14-year-old female victim, who suffered a gunshot wound to the head, has died from her injuries.

Detectives have detained multiple individuals who were inside the residence as they work to determine what occurred.

Investigators are examining whether the shooting was self-inflicted or the result of an accidental discharge. No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains active. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

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The Greenwood Police Department said officers and Caddo Fire District No. 3 responded Wednesday afternoon to the Interstate 20 eastbound on-ramp No. 3 after receiving a report of an unresponsive male in the grass.

Upon arrival, first responders located a deceased individual exhibiting signs of partial decomposition.

Because the cause of death remains undetermined, the Greenwood Police Department has turned the investigation over to the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Officials thanked the public for its patience and understanding as agencies continue the investigation.

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Caddo Parish Public Schools has named Rosalind Mosley as the next principal of Walnut Hill Elementary/Middle School.

Mosley brings more than 20 years of experience in education and currently serves as assistant principal of instruction at Woodlawn High School.

Her experience also includes serving as a master teacher, instructional coach, department chair and classroom teacher at the elementary, middle and high school levels.

According to the district, Mosley’s career has focused on instructional leadership, teacher development, school improvement and student achievement. She has also worked to strengthen classroom instruction and use data to help ensure students receive the support they need to succeed.

Caddo Parish Public Schools said it looks forward to Mosley beginning her new role with the students, employees, families and community of Walnut Hill Elementary/Middle School.

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The floating pier at Earl G. Williamson Park in Oil City has been temporarily closed while repairs are made to a bushing on the pier, according to Caddo Parish Parks and Recreation.

The pier will remain closed until all repairs have been completed.

Caddo Parish Parks and Recreation said it recognizes the park is a popular fishing destination and apologized for the inconvenience. The department said it will notify the public when the pier reopens.

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The Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office has welcomed Assistant District Attorney Shayla Johnson to its staff.

Johnson previously served as a law clerk for Judges Brady O’Callaghan and Don Hathaway Jr. She is a graduate of Natchitoches Central High School, Northwestern State University and Southern University Law Center.

Before joining the District Attorney’s Office, Johnson also worked as a probation officer for the State of Louisiana.

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Constance Ann McBreairty Bryan, 82, of Bossier City Louisiana, passed away at Bloom Senior Living of natural causes on July 19th, 2026. She was born in Allagash, Maine in 1943 to Robert McBreairty Sr. and Mary Jane (Hughes) McBreairty, and enjoyed her rural life in northern Maine with her brothers and sisters. At the age of 13 she moved to Caribou Maine. There she graduated from Caribou High School in 1961. She became a homemaking military wife for the first time, to Joseph John Rivers Jr., in 1964 and gave birth to two sons, Joseph John Rivers III and Daniel Wayne Rivers Sr. They settled in Bossier City in 1971 for three decades. In her early thirties she worked in medical insurance for Bossier Medical Center and Christis Schumpert Shreveport for many decades. Connie also helped her siblings, raised her sons and helped raise her grandchildren in her years in Bossier City. She became a homemaker again in Chatom Alabama to Walter Bryan in 2005 until widowed in 2020. She then moved back to her family home in Allagash Maine to care for her sick sister Mary Lou McBreairty. Upon her sister’s passing her sons moved her back to Bossier City to care for her.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents Robert McBreairty Sr. and Mary Jane (Hughes) McBreairty, her sisters Ruth Ellen Jones and Mary Lou McBreairty, her brother Phil Gregory McBreairty and her second husband Walter Bryan. She is survived by her brothers Robert McBreairty, Jr. and Paul Hughes McBreairty, M.D., her sisters Elizabeth Jane McBreairty, Margaret Louise (Peggy) McBreairty, Susan Jean McBreairty and Sarah Kay McBreairty, her sons Joseph John Rivers III and his wife Rondalyn May Marshall Rivers, and Daniel Wayne Rivers Sr. and his wife Kimberly S. Wilson Rivers, her first husband Joseph John Rivers Jr., five grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Celebration of Life memorials will be held in both Bossier City and Allagash. First, at 2pm on Saturday August 1st at Bellaire Baptist Church, 1210 Bellaire Blvd., Bossier City, LA 71112. Flowers for this service should be ordered through Aulds Flourist 7847 E. Kings Hwy., Shreveport, LA 71115, phone 318-797-4221. The second will be at 2pm on Saturday August 8th at Allagash Baptist Church, 564 Dickey Rd. Allagash, ME 04774. A service at the church sanctuary will be followed by the scattering of her remains at Robby’s Pond and a meal catered by Two Rivers Restaurant. Flowers for this service should be ordered through Pelletiers Florist Greenhouse & Garden Center, 500 W Main St, Fort Kent, ME 04743, phone 207-834-5241

Connie is volunteered at The Caring Hearts Center in Chatom Alabama for years and donated to The Shriner’s Children’s Hospitals regularly. Donations to them would be greatly appreciated.

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Bobby Gene Whitton, Jr. passed away July 21, 2026. Professionally, people knew him as Bobby but friends and family called him Gene. Gene was a life-long resident of the Shreveport-Bossier area, attending Judson Elementary, Lakeshore Middle School, and Fairpark High School.

Most people would probably agree, Gene was not necessarily a people person, but he never met a stranger and was always quick to help anyone in need. A jack of all trades, Gene had an eye and ear for perfection and when he saw or heard something out of place, he set about meticulously to fix it. At just 18 years old, Gene began his career as a mechanic with Powercycle Center. After graduating with honors from the Honda Training Center in Norcross, Georgia, Gene became a qualified se-up specialist on the Honda racing team. Gene was an avid motorcycle rider who rode every chance he could; his first bike being a Honda XR75 and last a Honda RC51 with countless makes and models in between. Gene’s love for speed and motorsports led him to convert one of his father’s motorcycles into a drag bike. One of Gene’s vehicles included a truck he said was so fast he could pass anything but a gas station. Gene finished out his career in building maintenance with Centerpoint Energy. When not riding motorcycles or hanging out with friends, Gene could be found watching his heroes, The Three Stooges followed by Svengoolie.

Gene was preceded in death by his father Bobby Gene Whitton, Sr., mother Evelyn Marie Arnold, brother Michael Dale Whitton and sister Rebecca Marie Whitton. Gene is survived by his brother Jeffrey Glenn Whitton and wife Lynn, aunts, uncle, cousins and numerous friends.

The family would like to express thanks to the Shreveport Fire Department, Shreveport Police Department and Willis Knighton Pierremont for helping Gene in times of need. Special thanks are given to the staffs of St. Joseph Hospice, Azalea Estates, and the Village Healthcare at The Glen for the love and care given to make Gene’s life comfortable. The service will be at 10:00 Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Boone Funeral Home in Bossier City followed by a graveside service at Forest Park East.

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BOSSIER CITY – The East Bank District has long been one of Bossier City’s most distinctive destinations with a walkable mix of restaurants, local businesses, music, art, and history. Now, with Rich Carroll overseeing the district as the new East Bank arts building and plaza manager, the focus is on creating an even more engaging atmosphere for residents and visitors.

Only a few months into his role, Carroll isn’t focused on simply maintaining historic buildings. It’s about connecting people, supporting local businesses, and helping the East Bank District become an even more vibrant gathering place for the community.

“It’s exciting some days, daunting other days,” he said with a laugh. “But I love the idea of giving back to the city that I grew up in and getting to do something a little challenging.”

His responsibilities stretch far beyond managing Bossier City’s historic Municipal Building. As the city’s liaison to Louisiana’s East Bank Cultural District, he oversees the district’s cultural development while working alongside business owners, artists, and event organizers to strengthen one of the city’s fastest-growing destinations.

“The more people we can bring through this building, the more people that we get into our East Bank District, whether that’s going to the restaurants, shopping at the antique stores, or grabbing a snowball,” Carroll said. “The more people we each drive, the better it is.”

That collaborative mindset sits at the heart of his vision.

Rather than programming every event himself, Carroll sees the city as a facilitator that creates opportunities for artists, nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and community groups to bring their own ideas to life.

“I don’t want this to be my show,” he said. “I want this to be the residents’ and visitors’ opportunity.”

Already, Carroll is working with artists to schedule gallery exhibitions, helping organizations reserve the annex for meetings and classes, and encouraging festivals, concerts, and markets to utilize the plaza across the street.

“The idea is to have a place for residents and visitors to come and experience whatever we have going on,” he said.

His enthusiasm for the role comes naturally. As a Bossier City native, he was already a frequent visitor before accepting the position.

“I love the East Bank District,” Carroll said. “It is one of my favorite parts of Bossier City. Before working here, I was down on the street pretty regularly at the restaurants and going to shows.”

That personal connection fuels his desire to see the district continue growing. While he can’t yet discuss businesses that are preparing to open, he says momentum is already building.

Carroll’s role isn’t to recruit or curate specific businesses, but rather to help prospective owners navigate opportunities available within the Cultural District, including historic renovation tax credits and city resources.

“There’s more growth coming down here,” he said. “I’m happy to work with people who are interested and talk about whether they’d fit in.”

That passion for storytelling comes from a nearly two-decade career spent connecting people with causes and communities through event management, community engagement, public service, and nonprofit leadership. 

Before arriving back in Bossier, Carroll worked in event planning at a museum in Pennsylvania and previously managed large-scale fundraising events for the American Cancer Society, where he coordinated hundreds of volunteers, built community partnerships, and learned the importance of listening.

Those experiences have shaped his definition of success. He sees that it isn’t measured only by attendance numbers or economic reports, but by progress. Whether that’s launching a new initiative, helping a local business, or simply having meaningful conversations with residents, he sees momentum as positive steps forward.

“Anything outside of just sitting around doing nothing counts as success,” Carroll said. “Progress is success.”

Just a few months into the position, Carroll has spent much of his time preparing the nearly century-old Municipal Building for its next chapter. Painting walls, repairing floors, restoring spaces, and maintaining the historic structure may not be glamorous work, but he sees each improvement as another investment in the district’s future.

“I love when people walk in because they saw the historical marker,” he said. “I get to walk them through this 100-year-old building and tell them the history of Bossier from the early 1800s to now.”

As the building’s restoration winds down, he expects that definition to evolve. His focus will increasingly turn toward building partnerships, expanding tourism, supporting local businesses, and creating experiences that encourage people to return repeatedly.

“Success becomes networking with the community, further enhancements of the district, and people coming in the door to see what we have going on,” Carroll said.

Above all, he wants the East Bank District to belong to the people who live here. He wants the community to know they have an open invitation to stop by.

“I would love for people to come by and see me because I want to hear what they want out of this building, the plaza, the theater, and the annex,” Carroll said.

Because his vision for the East Bank District isn’t about dictating what’s next, it’s about creating space for the community to shape the future together.

“The more that we do that,” Carroll said, “the better we make this place.”

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By Matt Vines

SHREVEPORT – “Échale ganas.”

It’s a Mexican Spanish saying that Karina Jimenez has heard from her family all her life.

And it’s the foundation in which the Stonewall resident completed her biological sciences bachelor’s degree from LSU Shreveport and will continue on to pharmacy school at UT Tyler.

“It’s a phrase that means to give it your all,” said Jimenez, a first-generation college graduate. “I might be stressed out or frustrated with school, but with my family’s support, I never had a doubt.

“This is a reflection of not just my hard work, but theirs as well. You never want to disappoint your family with everything they’ve done for me, and I am so happy that I am leading the life they wanted to give me in the first place.”

Jimenez walked across the graduation stage May 15 as a first-generation college student and eldest granddaughter in a family where she hopes her example will be followed by younger siblings and cousins.

She graduated with a concentration in cellular and molecular biology, and her dual interest in organic chemistry/biochemistry and public health steered her toward a pharmacy career.

Jimenez remembers taking an interest in science from an early age, and she excelled in North DeSoto High’s Project Lead The Way Biomedical Science program.

“I loved science since I was a child, and I wanted to be a doctor or a vet growing up,” Jimenez recalls. “But then I learned that vets put down dogs, and I didn’t want to do that.

“I fell in love with science around the first grade. I was particularly interested in the human body in our textbooks and books from the library, and I knew I wanted to do something in this field.”

That love affair continued in high school, and her participation in the Biomedical Program solidified her desire to work in healthcare.

Her introduction to pharmacy came in her senior year of high school when she worked in retail pharmacy, something she continued throughout her college career.

Jimenez said she was waitlisted by larger universities, deciding to stay close to family by attending LSUS. She stuck by that decision when the original schools eventually accepted her.

But what she found at LSUS were attentive faculty members who helped shape and encourage her decision to enter the pharmaceutical field.

“Professors like (Dr. Stephanie Villalba in biological sciences) and (Dr. Adrienne Davis in public health) were extremely important,” Jimenez said. “I couldn’t decide between pursuing physician assistant school or pharmacy school, and Villalba thought I’d make a great pharmacist.

“I love organic chemistry, organic biology and anatomy and physiology — those classes really influenced my understanding of the human body.”

Villalba, who taught Jimenez in four different classes, said she is an inquisitive student in which pharmacy school was a natural next step.

“Karina’s interest in learning the mechanisms of medications in the human body was evident in the kinds of questions she asked in and out of class and in discussions about her future career goals,” Villalba said. “She brought meaningful real-world experience from working in a pharmacy setting for multiple years, and her experience as a pharmacy clerk and pharmacy technician candidate not only provided her with practical insight into the responsibilities of pharmacy professionals but also deepened her commitment to serving patients in such a setting.”

Jimenez found other ways to put that knowledge to work this past summer by volunteering at the MLK Health Center, which offers primary healthcare and pharmacy services at no cost to uninsured patients.

“I translated for our primarily Spanish-speaking patients, communicating about medications and things they had going on with their body,” Jimenez said. “I applied to pharmacy school because of that experience, and it opened my eyes that I wanted to be alongside the physician providing care.

“Retail pharmacy is too chaotic, so I want to work in an in-patient setting directly consulting with physicians. My dream is to go to a big pediatric hospital in Dallas, and maybe one day even work in rural medicine by opening my own pharmacy.”

Not only did Jimenez find supportive professors, she made connections with fellow students as they pursued professional medical schools.

Her best friend Lianne Kho was one of three LSUS students to be accepted to Occupational Therapy school this past December, a pathway more students are finding through LSUS.

“Lianne sat by me in class one day because it was the only chair available, and she’s been the greatest support I could ever have,” Jimenez said. “I was able to talk to her about my frustrations, and we studied at each other’s houses.

“Any time I would doubt myself, she would support me and tell me we’re going to succeed.”

A role Jimenez will play for future siblings and cousins as the first in her family to cross the graduation stage.

Villalba also wants to continue her role in the recent trend of LSUS students pursuing professional medical schools.

“LSUS plays a vital role in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals, and this mission is more important than ever as the demand for skilled, compassionate practitioners continues to grow, especially in the Shreveport-Bossier area,” Villalba said. “The Department of Biological Sciences is at the forefront of this effort.

“We are maintaining strong, consistent numbers of students pursuing and gaining acceptance to health professional programs, reflecting our ongoing commitment to student preparation. This is achieved through rigorous coursework, hands-on laboratory and student research opportunities, and intentional advising and mentoring tailored to pre-professional students.”

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Roma Italian Bistro in Shreveport has issued a statement addressing social media discussion surrounding a Louisiana Department of Health inspection report from May 2025 that recently resurfaced online.

According to the restaurant, the inspection referenced in the article took place in the spring of 2025. Roma said it took the findings seriously, corrected the issues identified during the inspection and has continued serving the Shreveport community.

The restaurant also shared details from its most recent Louisiana Department of Health inspection conducted June 5, 2026. According to Roma, all three critical violations identified during that inspection were corrected while the inspector was on site. The report also included several non-critical maintenance items requiring ongoing attention.

Roma said it shared the inspection report so customers could review it themselves, adding that food safety is an ongoing responsibility and that it remains committed to maintaining the standards expected by the Louisiana Department of Health and its customers.

The restaurant also thanked the community for its continued trust and support, stating it remains committed to serving customers with safety, accountability and transparency.

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Northwestern State University students from across north Louisiana preparing for the fall semester completed enrollment, met with university staff and connected with campus resources during Registration Rally at the NSU Shreveport campus July 27.

The event, held from 9 a.m. to noon, brought together representatives from Financial Aid, the Registrar’s Office, Student Accounting and Cashiering, Admissions, academic colleges and other university departments to answer questions and guide students through the enrollment process. By hosting Registration Rally in Shreveport, NSU gave students across north Louisiana the opportunity to complete enrollment closer to home before classes begin.

Payton Romero, assistant director of recruiting for transfer and graduate students at NSU, said students could complete several enrollment steps during one visit.

“Today on the Shreveport campus, we have representatives from admissions, Financial Aid and their academic advisors here as well,” Romero said. “They are checking in with us. We are making sure they are good on the admissions side, making sure they do not have any registration holds and that we have all of their documents. Then they can meet with Financial Aid. They can also get their student ID today, and then we will send them to meet with their advisor and get registered for fall classes. It’s a one-stop shop for everything today.”

Maggie Schoenborn of Bossier City attended Registration Rally to prepare for her first semester at NSU.

“It was really easy. Everyone was really nice and helped me get ready, figure out all of my classes and told me what to expect and how to get it all set up,” Schoenborn said.

Schoenborn said attending Registration Rally gave her the opportunity to register for classes and prepare for the fall semester in one visit.

Chandler Gardner of Shreveport attended Registration Rally to prepare for the fall semester.

“I just got all my classes scheduled, talked to the financial people about my tuition, got my ID. Now I’m ready to go,” Gardner said.

Gardner said Registration Rally allowed her to complete several enrollment steps in one visit before the start of the fall semester.

Registration Rally is open to new and returning students and provides an opportunity to complete multiple enrollment steps during one visit before the semester begins.

Registration for the fall semester will continue through Aug. 16. Late registration, during which additional fees apply, will continue through Aug. 25. Information about registration is available at vic.nsula.edu.

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Addie Rose Brelsford, 87, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. She lived a life defined by faith, music, education, service, and an unwavering love for her family and community.

Addie Rose was born at home on July 22, 1939, at Follis Chapel near Trenton, Tennessee, to Alice Virginia Smith and L.V. Smith. She grew up in the close-knit community where she developed a lifelong love for music, learning, and serving others.

After graduating from Kenton High School in 1957, Addie attended Murray State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Public School Music in 1961. She began her teaching career in McCracken County Public Schools in Paducah, Kentucky, where she taught vocal music and inspired students through her passion for music.

In 1964, Addie returned to Kentucky, where a blind date forever changed her life. She met James “Jim” Brelsford of Paducah while he was home on leave from the United States Air Force, and the two were married in February 1965. Shortly after their wedding, Jim was assigned to Alaska while Addie remained in Kentucky to complete her master’s degree and earn her certification in Supervision of Education. Jim proudly returned home from Alaska in time to celebrate her graduation in May 1965.

The young couple soon embarked on an unforgettable journey, driving the Alaska Highway through Canada to Fairbanks, Alaska, where Jim was stationed at Eielson Air Force Base. Addie taught school on base during their first year and later attended the University of Alaska to continue her education. Their son, John Olaf Brelsford, was born in Fairbanks, Alaska in November 1967. As Jim faithfully served his country, the family lived in several places, including Phoenix, Arizona; Caribou, Maine; and Denver, Colorado, where their daughter, Jenny Rebecca Brelsford, was born at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in February 1973. Their final military assignment brought them to Shreveport, Louisiana, where Jim completed his Air Force career at Barksdale Air Force Base. While there, Addie continued taking graduate coursework through Louisiana State University.

In 1980, the Brelsford family settled in Rutherford, Tennessee, where Addie would leave an enduring legacy. She first volunteered as the music teacher at Rutherford Elementary School before being hired through the Rutherford PTO. From 1980 until 1986, she also shared her love of music by teaching private piano and vocal lessons from her home. In 1986, she became a kindergarten teacher at Rutherford School, where she lovingly nurtured countless young learners. She was also the longtime director of the Rutherford Community Choir, bringing people together through music for many years.

Music was never simply a profession for Addie—it was her ministry. She faithfully served as pianist at Rutherford First Baptist Church for nearly thirty years before later becoming a member of China Grove Baptist Church. Whether singing, directing choirs, or playing the piano, she joyfully used her God-given talents to glorify the Lord and encourage others.

In October 1998, Addie celebrated the marriage of her daughter, Jenny, to Kevin Turner. Just over a year later, on Veterans Day in 1999, she mourned the loss of her beloved husband, Jim, after nearly 35 years of marriage.

Her greatest joy became her grandchildren. Julianna Rose Turner was born in September 2001, followed by James Ethan Turner in June 2004. “Nana,” as she was lovingly known, treasured every moment with them. She delighted in taking them to the Trenton Library, Discovery Park, the Safari Park, Reelfoot Lake, and countless other adventures. She always kept snacks, a full tank of gas, and a plan for making memories. She faithfully attended cheer competitions, vocal performances, football games, and basketball games and proudly cheered louder than anyone from the Bethel Wildcats sidelines.

After retiring from education, Addie continued serving her community through music. She faithfully led patriotic music programs for schoolchildren at the flagpole beside the Davy Crockett Cabin and joyfully led generations of Rutherford schoolchildren in the community’s Fourth of July parades. Her love for country, community, and children remained evident throughout her life.

In 2022, Addie became a resident of Dogwood Pointe Assisted Living. True to her outgoing nature, she quickly became known for her warm smile, vibrant personality, and willingness to entertain fellow residents by playing the baby grand piano. She never lost her gift of bringing joy to others through music.

Above all else, Addie was a woman of steadfast faith, remarkable kindness, and enduring optimism. She believed in keeping a record of life’s blessings, praying before making major decisions, not waiting too long to pursue your dreams, enjoying family and friends while you can, and never taking life’s precious moments for granted because “things change.”

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James “Jim” Brelsford; her parents, L.V. and Alice Virginia Smith; and her brother, Nathan Smith.

She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory: her son, John Olaf Brelsford; her daughter, Jenny Turner, and husband, Kevin Turner; her beloved grandchildren, Julianna Rose Turner and James Ethan Turner; her nieces, Jill Koback (Kevin Koback) and Jerianne Poe (Travis Poe); her great-nieces, Samantha Koback (mother of Addie’s great-great-nephew, Colter Smitty) and Ansley Poe; her great-nephew, Asher Poe; as well as many other extended family members, former students, church families, friends, and neighbors whose lives were forever enriched by her love, encouragement, and music.

Though her hands are now still, the melodies she played, the songs she sang, the children she taught, the faith she lived, and the love she gave will continue to echo through the lives of all who knew her. Her legacy is one of grace, joyful service, unwavering faith, and a life beautifully lived.

Visitation with family and friends will be held Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 12PM until service time at 2PM, in the Rutherford chapel of Karnes & Son Funeral Home. Pastor Mark Kirkpatrick and Brother Randy Crews will officiate, and burial will follow at the Rutherford Cemetery.

Karnes & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mrs. Addie Rose Brelsford.

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Funeral service celebrating the life of John “Franklin” Utz Jr., 58, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, July 31, 2026 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home 943 Polk St. Mansfield, Louisiana with Bro. Chris Berry officiating. Interment will follow at Bethany Cemetery Marthaville, Louisiana.

The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 31, 2026 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

John Franklin Utz, Jr. was born on April 27 1968 in Shreveport, Louisiana to John Franklin Utz, Sr. and Reata Gail Free and passed away July 27, 2026 in Frierson, Louisiana.

John graduated from North DeSoto High School and retired from Ryerson. John’s hobbies include fishing, hunting, visiting with family and friends and he never met a stranger.

Franklin was preceded in death by parents, Reata and John Utz, Sr., and sister, Gail Smith.

Left to cherish his memory are his niece, Samantha Hesser and husband Cord and great nephews, Brantley and Casen Hesser.

Honoring Franklin as pallbearers will be Cord Hesser, Brantley Hesser, Casen Hesser, Brian Hesser, Kent Smith and Wade Baker.

Serving as honorary pallbearers are Wilson Baker, Kirk Lee, Billy Hines, Bobby Weeks, and many other special friends.

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A Shreveport man convicted earlier this month for killing a female acquaintance three years ago was sentenced to life in prison Monday, July 27, 2026 in Caddo District Court.

District Judge Chris Victory sentenced Edduin Silva, 22, to the state-mandated term for the April 26, 2023 slaying of Amaya Jacobs. Ms. Jacobs, 35, was shot multiple times in the face as she drove near Fairfax Avenue and Morningside Drive in the Caddo Heights neighborhood. The hard-labor sentence is to be served without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

Silva fired his .22 caliber AR-style rifle 13 times, striking Ms. Jacobs with multiple rounds. Surveillance video showed Silva, who admitted to police that he shot the victim, pacing up and down in front of his house armed with the rifle moments before the shooting. 

Silva was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Victoria Washington and Courtney N. Ray. He was defended by Leslie Kelly.

The case was docket No. 395241.

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A Shreveport man who pleaded guilty in April to leading police on a high-speed chase for almost a dozen miles was sentenced to serve a decade in prison Monday, July 27, 2026, in Caddo District Court. 

Darrtavious Tuvoya Lewis, 22, was sentenced by District Judge Donald E. Hathaway Jr. The term must be served at hard labor. A pre-sentencing investigation showed that Leis had two prior convictions for crimes of violence and was still on probation at the time of this offense for one of those convictions. Judge Hathaway ordered that the sentences run consecutively.

Lewis pleaded guilty as charged April 16, 2026, in Caddo District Court, just after the first and only witness against him was about to testify.

On April 20, 2025, Shreveport police officers observed a 2019 Dodge Durango with a license plate that returned to a stolen vehicle out of Texas run a red light at Kennedy Drive and Hollywood Avenue. When officers tried to initiate a traffic stop, the driver fled and led several patrol units on a high-speed chase that lasted over 15 minutes, reached speeds in excess of 110 mph and ended on Greenwood Road, almost 12 miles away, when the Durango crashed into the fence of a nearby fire station. The driver fled on foot and was eventually apprehended with the use of a K9 officer.

Throughout the pursuit, the Durango drove into oncoming traffic, forced multiple vehicles off of the road and nearly collided with several cars that were unassociated with the pursuit.

Lewis was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Chase Burgess and Jason Waltman. He was represented by the Caddo Parish Public Defender’s office.

The case was docket No. 408229.

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Deputy Chief Mike Tyler presented the City of Shreveport’s year-to-date crime statistics to the Shreveport City Council on Monday.

The statistics compared the reporting period from Jan. 1 through July 24 for each year to provide an accurate comparison of crime trends over time.

According to the Shreveport Police Department, the city has experienced reductions in many crime categories, including several violent offenses. However, officials said one of the most concerning trends is the continued increase in fatal traffic crashes.

The City of Shreveport and Caddo Parish currently lead Louisiana in fatal crashes. Officials identified two areas of particular concern:

• Pedestrians being struck while in or near roadways.
• Crashes involving distracted driving.

The department urged drivers to remain alert, put their phones down, obey traffic laws, and watch carefully for pedestrians. Pedestrians were also encouraged to use designated crossings, remain visible, and avoid entering roadways unexpectedly.

According to the department, reducing fatal crashes requires everyone who uses the roadways to make safer decisions.

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Residents in Caddo and Bossier parishes can expect hot and humid conditions throughout the week, with heat index values reaching up to 106 degrees and chances of afternoon showers and thunderstorms later in the week.

Wednesday is forecast to be mostly sunny and hot, with highs in the upper 90s. Southwest winds of 5 to 10 mph are expected, with heat index values reaching up to 106 in the afternoon. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with lows in the upper 70s and south winds around 5 mph.

Thursday will begin partly cloudy before becoming mostly cloudy, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs are expected in the mid 90s, with southwest winds around 5 mph. The chance of rain is 30%, and heat index values could reach up to 105 in the afternoon. Thursday night will be partly cloudy with lows in the upper 70s.

Friday will remain partly cloudy and hot, with highs in the mid 90s and heat index values up to 105 in the afternoon. Friday night will be partly cloudy with lows in the upper 70s.

Saturday is expected to be partly cloudy and hot, with highs in the upper 90s and heat index values reaching up to 105. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a slight chance of evening showers. Lows are expected in the mid 70s, with a 20% chance of rain.

Sunday will bring mostly sunny skies with highs in the lower 90s. Sunday night will be mostly clear with lows in the lower 70s.

Monday is expected to be mostly sunny with highs in the mid 90s.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announced that DOTD crews completed piling repairs on two bridges along LA 169 north of Greenwood in Caddo Parish.

According to DOTD, the maintenance work helps ensure the structures continue to remain in service for the traveling public.

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Henryetta Walls Vanaman, 75, of Conway, Arkansas passed away on Tuesday, July 28,2026. She was born in Shreveport, Louisiana on July 19,1951, to parents Elizabeth Odell Williams Walls and Henry Newton Walls. She was preceded in death by her husband, James “Jim” Douglas Vanaman, both parents, and her sisters, Desmond Walls Allen and Betty Jo Pass Guest. Henryetta is survived by her son, James Douglas “Doug” Vanaman Jr. (Tammy), daughter, Amanda Elizabeth Lovette (Jim), grandchild Abbigale “Abbi” Elizabeth Vanaman and numerous other family members and dear friends. Throughout her life, Henryetta’s family moved several times, taking her from Louisiana to Arkansas, Mississippi, and Missouri but landing back in Arkansas for most of her life.

In 1967, she married the love of her life, James “Jim” Douglas Vanaman. They lived in Greenville, Mississippi, then North Little Rock, Arkansas before making Conway their home. She was the mom that was involved in every school event, a member of the PTO, and the mom that your friends loved to hang out with. From painting tiny, pewter figurines with Doug and supporting every musical endeavor, art and any other interest to shopping, traveling, and creating beautiful homes with Amanda. In 1996, Henryetta became a grandmother (affectionately referred to as “Hank”) and could not have been more excited about her new role. She shared her love of photography, books and reading with Abbi.

After many years of family life, Henryetta returned to school, then graduated Summa Cum Laude from UALR in 2000 with degrees in Art and English as a Donaghey Scholar. She was passionate about her art, creating in different mediums, from sculpting to painting; taking the opportunity to study French in Orleans. France was one of the great highlights of this time.

Her love of photography was well known, and few things made her happier than taking family photos. Posing for what seemed like forever as she clicked away to make sure she got at least a few good shots was a beloved family tradition.

In 2002, Henryetta joined the Murphy Foundation Programs in Literature and Language at Hendrix College and retired in 2021. During that time, she coordinated visits for scholars, writers and theatre directors, managed receptions, lunches and dinners, mentored countless interns and executed poetry readings. She did it all and did it well. Hendrix and the Murphy Program held a special place in her heart. She loved the community and the community loved her in return.

Anyone that ever-met Henryetta likely enjoyed a big Henryetta (or Hank) hug and we’re all going to miss those. 

Visitation will be from 5:00pm to 7:00pm on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Wilcox Family Funeral Home. 

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