Funeral services honoring the life of Cleveland Wayne Wyatt Sr. will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Old Pisgah Baptist Church, 15192 LA-120, Marthaville, Louisiana. A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service. Officiating the service will be Bro. Eric Wilburn.

Cleveland Wayne Wyatt Sr. of DeBerry, Texas, known to many as Dad, Papa, Grandpa, Uncle Wayne, and above all, a devoted and loving husband, passed on April 22, 2026, in Shreveport, Louisiana at the age of 70. He was born on August 14, 1955, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Cleveland DeVance Wyatt and Gladys Odessa Goings.

Wayne spent most of his life working in the oil and gas industry and was a business owner of several ventures over the years. He was a true jack-of-all-trades—there wasn’t much he couldn’t do or fix. If someone was stuck, struggling, or simply needed a helping hand, Wayne was the one you called. Whether it was pulling someone out of the mud, helping build a home, cutting down a tree, rewiring a house, fixing a vehicle, or just sitting and listening, he was always there.

He was a contractor for many years and took pride in his work, but even more so in the people he helped along the way. Wayne coached many of his son’s teams growing up and became a father figure to countless kids who weren’t his own. To his children’s friends—and really to anyone who needed it—he was simply “Dad.”

Wayne was a man of God whose faith never wavered. Through every challenge he faced, he remained strong, trusting in God’s grace and never giving up. He was one of the strongest men his family has ever known, a man whose life was a testimony of perseverance, faith, and unconditional love. He loved his family deeply and without question—his wife, his children, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of his world.

Honoring Wayne as pallbearers will be Wayne Wyatt II, Dan Landreneaux, Taylor Pierce, Jeff Anders, Abram Anders, Chad Stackpole, Brandon Bertolis, and Luis Deleon. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Feazel and Jerry Sandifer.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, Cleveland Wyatt and Gladys Phillips; his brother, Ronnie Dale Wyatt; and his granddaughter, Addisyn Wyatt.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 33 years, Jo-Nell Wyatt; his son, Wayne Wyatt II and wife Michal; his daughters, Quinnon Anders and husband Jeff, Olivia Wyatt and significant other Dan Landreneaux, and Emily Wyatt and significant other Taylor Pierce. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Abram Anders and wife Kennedy, Emalyn Anders and fiancé Johnathan, Lawson Wyatt, Lucas Ortiz, and Walker Wyatt; and his great-grandchildren, Madelyn Demoss, Alexander Demoss, and Parker Anders, along with numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends

Mary Elizabeth Hendrick Krauel passed away on April 24, 2026 at the age of 93. She was born in Shreveport, LA, where she attended local schools and graduated from Byrd High School in 1950. She attended SMU in Dallas, TX, where she belonged to Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority. While at SMU, she met and married the love of her life, Robert W. Krauel. They made their home in Shreveport.

Mrs. Krauel held BA and Master’s degrees plus 48 hours above the masters. After obtaining her BA and Master’s degree from Northwestern State University, she was inducted into the prestigious Phi Kappa Phi honor society. She was a long-time member of the Retired Teacher’s Association and the Caddo Retired Teacher’s Association. She was instrumental in writing the guidelines for the first fundamental elementary school from which most of the elementary and middle school magnets have sprung. She also helped write guidelines for the Secondary Aide Program for Caddo Parrish. After retiring from teaching, she owned and operated The Writer’s Service.

Mrs. Krauel loved working in her garden and said, “It was good for her soul.” She organized the Spring Lake Garden Club and served as president. Mrs. Krauel was a long-time, faithful member of Broadmoor Baptist Church and a loyal member of her Sunday School class. When her children were young, she taught youth Sunday School and served as leader of the Youth Training Union.

Mary Elizabeth Krauel was preceded in death by her parents, Judge Ruvian D. Hendrick and Willie Ford Hendrick; her beloved husband of 67 years, Robert W. Krauel; her son Robert W. Krauel, Jr; and her brother Ruvian D. Hendrick, Jr. She is survived by daughter Diane Krauel Perkins (Cecil); granddaughters Laura Colvin (Bradley), Leslie Mulford (Andrew), and Lynn Jenkins (Matthew); grandsons, Ian Krauel and Eric Krauel; and twelve great-grandchildren.

Mary Elizabeth was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Memorials may be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Shreveport, LA, Broadmoor Baptist Church, or charity of donor’s choice.

Bossier Parish officials say this year’s Operation Clean Sweep resulted in a significant cleanup effort across parish roadways.

According to the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, a total of 11.5 tons of trash were removed and 27 tires were properly disposed of during the community-wide initiative.

Sheriff Whittington and the sheriff’s office expressed appreciation to all participants, noting the strong turnout and collaboration that helped make the event successful. Officials said the effort reflects ongoing community pride and a commitment to keeping Bossier Parish clean and maintained.

Caddo Parish Parks and Recreation has provided an update on planned dredging work at the Earl G. Williamson boat launch, according to District 1 Commissioner Chris Kracman.

Parks and Recreation Director Patrick Wesley said the parish will begin receiving contractor quotes in June and July. After selecting a contractor, officials will confirm a work schedule, with dredging potentially beginning in late August or early September.

Officials noted that late summer is typically chosen for the project because water levels at Caddo Lake are at their lowest near the ramp, allowing for easier access for contractors. The dredging process is expected to take about two weeks, depending on weather conditions.

The Bossier Parish School for Technology and Innovative Learning (BPSTIL) recently held its National Technical Honor Society induction ceremony, celebrating students recognized for excellence in career and technical education.

School officials highlighted the inductees’ leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to their chosen technical fields. The students were praised for their dedication and readiness to contribute to both their community and future careers.

BPSTIL congratulated all new members of the National Technical Honor Society, noting that their hard work and perseverance have earned them this recognition.

Danny Lynn Brotherton, of Coushatta, Louisiana, passed awayMonday, April 20, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

Danny was born in Independence, Missouri, on November 9, 1962, to his parents, William Andrew “Bill” Brotherton and Gwendolyn May “Gwen” Tooley. He grew up in Carrollton, Missouri, alongside his many siblings and cousins.

He married Velma Ann Keith (Brotherton) in October 1981, both at the age of eighteen. They were married for over forty-fouryears. Together they had three daughters, Amanda Daniele Brotherton (Todd), Allison Ann Brotherton (Hayes), and Adrianna Lynn Brotherton, who were his pride and joy.

Danny was a certified general contractor, and worked in concrete construction all of his life, beginning full-time at the age of fifteen.He was a founder of B&B Construction with his father, Bill, and brother-in-law, Joey Cason, Sr. He also founded and operated Grand Bayou Construction and Brotherton Concrete Construction. When he retired from concrete construction, Danny became a certified pipeline welding inspector and member of the 406 unionas a foreman supervisor over natural gas stations.

In his spare time, Danny was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying deer hunting, squirrel hunting, dove hunting, and coon hunting, a passion he shared with his father, a lifetime member of the Blue Tick Breeders of America. He received many trophies for his hunting efforts and coonhounds. Danny shared his love of the outdoors with his children and grandchildren, always with one or more in tow. Danny also loved to travel with his family, driving all over the United States.

Danny was a proud grandfather to his four grandchildren, who lovingly referred to him as “PaPaw,” Olivia Anne Todd, John Curtis Todd, Ty Wesley Hayes and Daniel Henry “Danny” Todd. He loved spending time with all of his grandchildren, sharing stories and riding ATVs around the family property.

Danny is preceded in death by his mother and father, his siblings, Robert Brotherton, Rita Holler, Virginia Bourdon, Chuck Thompson, Roy Allen Brotherton, Tommy Boyce, and Dolore Faye Clark.

Danny is survived by his loving wife, Velma; his children and grandchildren; his surviving siblings, Barbara Cloud, HelenThomas, and Carolyn and Joey Cason, all of Carrollton, MO; Paul and Jan Thompson of Hall Summit, LA; Judy and Scotty Haywood of Pittsburg, TX; and Rhonda Brotherton, all of Kansas City, MO; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews.

Services will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at New Life Church of Red River, 5047 Duke Avenue, Hall Summit, LA 71034, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. and service beginning at 12:00 p.m. A private burial will follow with the family. Dr. Collin Wimberly, dear pastor and friend to the deceased, will officiate the ceremony.

Pallbearers will be Joey Cason, Jr., Ken Cason, Jr., Landon Sturgeon, Shane Hubbard, Cody Hubbard, Dalton “Bubba” Hubbard, David “Trouble” Beard, Mason Pierce, and Bradin Millett.

Honorary Pallbearers are Joey Cason, Sr., Patrick Bryant, Matthew Todd, and Madison Pierce.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the team fromIntensive Specialty Hospital and Dr. Abdehou for their wonderful care and treatment of Mr. Brotherton

James “Jimmy” Donald Embry of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away on April 23, 2026, after a courageous battle against colorectal cancer, at the age of 40.

Jimmy was born on September 5, 1985, in Bossier City, Louisiana. Known for his sharp intellect, quick wit, and old school eclectic spirit, he was truly the smartest man many of us ever knew. He had a deep passion for building and collecting Gundam models, playing and trading collector cards, and loved playing Dungeons & Dragons with his work family and friends. Jimmy was also a trivia extraordinaire whose vast knowledge and curiosity made every conversation interesting and every game night memorable.

Above all else, Jimmy’s greatest love was his girlfriend and the love of his life, Sydney McDermott, his other half, who loved him beyond what words can express, cared for him with unwavering devotion, and is truly an angel on earth. He was also the devoted human of his beloved cat, Puddin, who generously allowed Jimmy to live in her home and serve as her full-time staff.

He is survived by his girlfriend, Sydney McDermott; his mother, Tina Jones; his father, Edwin Embry (Shawn); step-father, Philip Jones; his sister, Brooke Embry (Lindsay); his brother, Philip “PJ” Jones Jr.; and his beloved nieces, Olive and Hazel Embry. Jimmy also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will deeply miss his humor, intelligence, and unique perspective on the world.

In accordance with Jimmy’s final wishes to donate his body for medical research, a private celebration of his life with his family and friends will be planned.

Jimmy’s memory will live on in the countless laughs, stories, and moments of wonder he shared with those who loved him.

The Shreveport Police Department reported several recent arrests as part of an ongoing effort to remove illegal firearms from the streets and target individuals prohibited from possessing weapons.

According to the department, multiple arrests were made between April 17 and April 21 involving individuals accused of illegally carrying firearms or related offenses.

On April 21, Jabreland Thompson, Rodriguez Walker and James Tyler were arrested and charged with illegal carrying of weapons and squatting. Authorities said Thompson is a convicted felon with prior firearm and burglary convictions.

On April 20 at approximately 12:30 p.m., Michael Smith was arrested for unauthorized entry. Officers reported he was found in possession of a firearm despite prior convictions for armed robbery, simple robbery, felony theft and narcotics offenses. He now faces a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Earlier that day around 10:50 a.m., Cartez Anderson was arrested following a domestic incident and charged with simple battery of a dating partner and illegal carrying of a weapon.

On April 18, Roderick Simpson was arrested and charged with theft of a firearm. Police said he is also prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior convictions.

On April 17, Lorenzo Louis was arrested after allegedly pointing a firearm at a woman during a dispute. Authorities said he is a convicted felon and faces charges related to illegal possession of a firearm.

Police officials said the department will continue focusing enforcement efforts on individuals illegally possessing firearms.

The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office swore in seven new deputies during a ceremony held April 22.

Caddo Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr. administered the oath of office to the newly appointed personnel, who will serve in various divisions within the agency.

Three deputies were assigned to the Corrections Division: Jermarquis Harvey, Kenton Hood and Dacallier McClure.

Three deputies were assigned to Patrol: Stephanie Poole, Branthony Brown and Brandon Lewis.

Lesley Lacy was sworn in as a domestic violence advocate and will serve in the agency’s Domestic Violence Unit.

The sheriff’s office continues to recruit new personnel for a range of positions, including corrections deputies, licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, building and groundskeepers, part-time courthouse security personnel and part-time work release drivers. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. More information on qualifications, benefits and the application process is available at the agency’s website.

The Youth Peace & Justice Foundation, also known as The Uvalde Foundation for Kids, today announced the distribution of $1,005.34 in raised funds within 24 hours of launching its response to the Shreveport tragedy. The rapid deployment of direct financial support for victims underscores what leadership described as a rare, student-led national mobilization capable of generating and deploying aid in real time.

The Foundation confirmed that the funds were directed to the Community Foundation of North Louisiana Survivors Fund, ensuring rapid delivery of financial assistance to victims and families impacted in the immediate aftermath.

“This was not just a fundraiser — it was an immediate response,” said Daniel Chapin, Founder and President of the Youth Peace & Justice Foundation. “Within 24 hours, students and supporters across multiple states came together, raised funds, and ensured that direct financial support reached victims. That level of urgency and compassion is extraordinary.”

According to the Foundation, the campaign was uniquely structured as a multi-state, student-led initiative, with youth participants actively organizing and driving outreach efforts. Students in Maryland led grassroots fundraising efforts, while youth in Texas coordinated media distribution and digital amplification. At the same time, individuals across the country contributed donations ranging from $10 to $200 and beyond, forming a broad-based national response.

“This was not a passive online campaign,” Chapin added. “This was a fluid movement — young people crossing state lines with purpose, compassion, and action to show Shreveport that they are not alone.”

The Foundation further confirmed that ongoing fundraising efforts will continue through May 1, with proceeds supporting both the Louisiana Survivors Fund and the “Love One Louisiana” initiative, which has committed to covering funeral expenses for the victims.

In addition to financial support, the Foundation has activated its 24-hour Community Crisis Line (254-499-8027), providing access to youth peer support specialists and licensed counselors, and continues coordinating with local and national partners to expand recovery resources.

The Foundation also reaffirmed that the victims will be honored through its national “Trees for Peace” memorial initiative, ensuring their lives are remembered through long-term, living tributes. This commitment to honoring victims follows recent tributes by local leadership, including the Natchitoches Parish School Board, which held a moment of silence during its April 21 meeting for the young people lost in the Shreveport area.

“Our commitment is not just to respond, but to respond immediately and meaningfully,” Chapin said. “What we’ve seen here is proof that when young people lead with compassion, real impact follows — and it happens fast.”

Funeral services for Martha Maxine Bolgiano, 63, will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Dr., Shreveport, Louisiana. Burial will follow at Old Pisgah Cemetery, 15192 LA-120 in Marthaville, Louisiana. A visitation will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Officiating the services will be Pastor Ron Mattox.

Martha was born August 10, 1962 in Shreveport, Louisiana to Clinton “Buddy” Wyatt and Gracie Desoto Wyatt and passed away on Saturday, April 18, 2026 in Shreveport.

Martha was a resident of Blanchard, Louisiana. She graduated from Waskom High School. After graduation, she worked as a cook/cashier for many years. She was married for 40 years to the love of her life, Duane Bolgiano, until his passing. She loved God, her family, and her dog, Bear. She was a very sweet and caring person and always put others first. Her hobbies consisted of reading and gardening which she enjoyed very much.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Duane Bolgiano; sister, Kathy Young; brothers, Mike, Robert, Wendell, and baby brother, Wyatt. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Seth Bolgiano (Jen), Amanda Slade and husband, Dustin, Jesse Bolgiano and wife, Amber, Laura Emerson and husband, Keith, and Joe Bolgiano; brother, Calvin Wyatt and wife, Tammy; 12 grandchildren, Grace, Maelee, Hailey, Parker, Lillian, Presleigh, Makayla (Austin), Ryleigh, Layne, Olivia, and Reid; and many great-grandchildren.

Honoring Martha as pallbearers will be Seth Bolgiano, Jesse Bolgiano, Joe Bolgiano, Dustin Slade, Billy Young, and Austin Terry. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Calvin Wyatt and Shawn Collins. 

Sara Susan Rainey Shelby passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on April 18, 2026. Family will receive friends on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. and a Rosary from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Osborn Funeral Home, 3631 Southern Ave Shreveport, LA 71104. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026 at The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Forest Park Cemetery, St. Vincent Ave. Officiating will be Reverend Raney Johnson.

“Mimi” as she was lovingly called by her family, was born in Cotulla, Texas to Clarence Lyndon Rainey and Frances Morris Rainey on September 17th, 1942. She graduated from Refugio High School, where she was an accomplished majorette, Texas state journalism finalist and a deft pianist. She attended and graduated from the Lillie Jolly School of Nursing at Memorial Baptist Hospital of Houston and attended the University of Houston in post-diploma study.

Entering the nursing profession early, she quickly showed her promise as a nurse. By her energy, intelligence and commitment to care, she became one of the youngest head nurses in the country at age 23, working for Dr. Denton A. Cooley from 1965-1966, who was on the front-line of the emerging science of heart surgery. While working in Houston, she met the love of her life, Dr. James Stanford Shelby. They were married in 1967 and celebrated nearly 50 years of marriage.

In addition to nursing, Mimi excelled at so many things:
She was very active in the recovery community since 1978, helping an innumerable number of people enter into recovery from alcoholism and drug abuse. She was also very active with the Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.

She was a business owner who opened the clothing store, -SanShe- which specialized in hard to find fashions in Shreveport-Bossier and brought her unique style to the area.

She was an avid card player, playing bridge in her early years, and then evolving into a canasta “shark” playing weekly games with her fellow steel magnolias.

She was an artist and traveler, whether it was making a cameo on the Donahue Show, traveling to see the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican or visiting New Mexico/Arizona with her good friend Nita to paint the life and landscapes of the Southwest. And she would always keep one foot in her native Texas.

She was a two-time survivor of stage-4 lung cancer, learning first hand the challenge and hardship of having a cancer diagnosis. This experience led her to co-found, with Monique Dennie, the Caddo-Bossier Cancer Foundation League (CBCFL) to provide financial assistance to cancer patients for non-medical needs such as transportation, lodging and personal items.

She was a devoted Catholic, and her dedication led her to becoming inducted into the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem.

She was a loving wife and (very) patient mother of two boys who were 13 months apart. She was a grandmother who loved seeing her grandchildren grow up and being part of their lives.
She lived her life to the fullest, with love, deep affection and devotion to her friends and her beloved family.

She was preceded in death by her first son, James Stanford “Jeb” Shelby II and her beloved husband, Dr. James Stanford Shelby. She is survived by her loving sons, Dr. Bryan Christian Shelby and wife Dr. Vicky Tola-Shelby and Dr. Christopher Lindon Shelby and wife Carolyn Woods Shelby; her brothers Dr. Tim Rainey and wife, Jane Rainey and Mr. Chris Rainey and wife, Rosalie Rainey and both of their families. She leaves behind five grandchildren, Stanford, Linden, Christopher, Michael and Matthew.

Honoring Susan as pallbearers will be her grandsons, Stanford Shelby, Christopher H. Shelby, Michael Tola-Godfrey and Matthew Shelby, and her nephews, J.Tim Rainey and Colton Rainey.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Chris Rainey, Chad Shelby, Lad Cazedessus and Robert Pugh, Jr.

The family would like to thank McKayla “KK” Adams, Aime Thomas, Tracie Lostaglia, Sheena Rose, Debbie Garrison for their wonderful care; and her good friends, Nita Dixon, Mary Alice Scarborough, Anne Batson, Mimi Winterton and, her canasta “steel magnolias”: Barbara Burke, Louise Kinstrey, Jeannie Muslow, Judy Chidlow, Dorothy Lobel, for their friendship and love through the years; the Tola, Thompson and Pallon families; Robert Pugh, Jr., George McGovern and Tandy Lewis; Dr. Sean Denham and family, Dr. Anil Veluvolu, Dr. Lane Rosen, Dr. Paul Guidry, Dr. Rich Jacobson, Dr. Tejaswi Kalva, Dr. Asim Naveed, Dr. Kamlesh Jani, Dr. Bharat Guthikonda and the clinical staff of the Willis-Knighton Pierremont Intensive Care Unit and Emergency Department for their exceptional care of our beloved Mimi. The family would also like to give special thanks and gratitude to Mrs. Shelby’s long-time friend and assistant, Susan Turner.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials may be made to the Caddo-Bossier Cancer-Foundation League, Inc. 3300 Albert Bicknell Dr. #3, Shreveport LA 71103 (www.caddo-bossiercancerfoundationleague.org).

Officers with the Shreveport Police Department have arrested a suspect in connection with a catalytic converter theft reported earlier this month at Sam’s Town.

According to police, officers responded on April 12 just after 9 p.m. to a theft report at Sam’s Town, located at 315 Clyde Fant Memorial Parkway. Upon arrival, officers reviewed surveillance footage with assistance from casino security and identified a suspect who had previously been banned from the property.

On April 16, just after 10:40 p.m., officers observed the suspect, identified as David Ross, under the Red River District Bridge and took him into custody without incident.

Ross has been charged with criminal trespass and theft of a catalytic converter.

Chief Wayne Smith and the Shreveport Police Department commended officers for their proactive investigation and quick action in identifying and apprehending the suspect.

A mostly cloudy and gradually warming pattern is expected across Caddo Parish and Bossier Parish, with increasing chances for showers and thunderstorms heading into the end of the week.

Rain chances increase on Wednesday, with a 50 percent chance of showers and possible afternoon thunderstorms. Highs will climb into the upper 70s. Skies will clear slightly Wednesday night with partly cloudy conditions and lows in the lower 60s.

Thursday will bring mostly cloudy skies with only a slight 20 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Highs are expected in the lower 80s, followed by mostly cloudy conditions Thursday night and lows in the mid-60s.

By Friday, storm chances increase again, with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, some of which could become severe. Highs will reach the mid-80s. Friday night carries the highest rain chances of the period, with a 60 percent likelihood of showers and thunderstorms, including the potential for severe weather.

The weekend will remain warm with lingering rain chances. Saturday will be mostly cloudy early before becoming partly cloudy, with a slight chance of afternoon storms and highs in the mid-80s. Storm chances increase again Saturday night.

Sunday will bring mostly cloudy skies with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon. Similar conditions continue into Monday, with highs in the mid-80s and a 50 percent chance of rain.

Residents should remain weather-aware late in the week, especially Friday and Friday night, when stronger storms may develop.

Centenary’s Office of Alumni & Family Relations is thrilled to present this year’s iteration of the fan-favorite fundraiser “Beast Feast: Something for Everyone” on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 4:30PM to 7:00PM, on Jones-Rice Field at Centenary College.

Consistently an alumni, student and community favorite, this unique event serves up “off-the-menu” culinary creations alongside classic southern cuisine, all paired with bottomless craft beer and specialty cocktails. Notably, all food is prepared by local cook teams demonstrating their love for community and education. Every ticket sold directly supports Centenary College student scholarships.

“So far, we have quite the menu, including smoked brisket sliders, crawfish cornbread, game bird gumbo, and ‘lava fried rice,’ a dish by a last-year-favorite cook team: ‘Pepper Pals’,” said Hannah Rachal-Hughes, director of Alumni and Family Relations.

Vegan/Vegetarian-friendly dishes like Garlic Fried Rice, Basil Fried Rice and more will be up for grabs as well.

“With both local craft beer and domestic beer on tap, plus a specialty cocktail prepared by our friends at Don Q Rum, we plan on having all bases covered,” said Rachal-Hughes.

To add even more excitement to the event, each cook team competes for the coveted Best of Beast Feast title, as voted by attendees!

“This event is the perfect blend of what we value most ­­— community, connection, and we add in a dash of friendly competition for good measure,” said Rachal-Hughes. “We’re thrilled to welcome alumni, families, and neighbors for an afternoon of great food and even better company, all for a great cause.”

Tickets for Beast Feast are $40 in advance and $50 at the door, with free admission for children 12 and under. Each ticket includes sample-sized portions from all food vendors and unlimited beverages, may that be sodas, bottled water, tap beer, and specialty cocktails.

The event is made possible thanks to the generous support from an array of sponsors.

Presenting sponsor: Origin Bank
Gold sponsors: National Management Resources, Ark-La-Tex Tents, Louisiana Beef Industry Council
Silver sponsors: Louisiana Seafood, Eagle Distributing, Sodexo, Dillas
Bronze: Boyett, Coca-Cola
Friends: Chick-fil-A, Thrifty, Whole Foods, Down Home Sausage, Farmer’s Seafood, Dr. Cory Wikan, Scott & Anne Pugh

For a full list of sponsors, to purchase tickets, or to sign up as a volunteer, please visit centenarybeastfeast.com. For additional questions, please contact Hannah Rachal-Hughes at hcrachal@centenary.edu or call 318.869.5115

Tammy Elizabeth Litton, 50, passed away on April 16, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Grover and Omega Sibley, and her paternal grandfather, Huey Ray Litton.

Left to cherish her memory: her parents, Kathy and Bobby Litton; Paternal grandmother, Betty Jean Litton; sister, Rebecca Litton; and her children, Heidi (Craig), Madison (Colton and Oliver), and Landon. She is also survived by her niece, Lani Litton; her nephew, Aydon Ramos; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Tammy’s life was one that touched many in different ways, and she will be remembered through the lives of those who knew her. Her children and family carry forward her memory, holding onto the moments and connections that remain a lasting part of their lives.

The family asks for privacy during this time as they reflect, remember, and honor her life in their own way.

May she be at peace, and may those who loved her find comfort in the memories they hold close

Carol was born on August 20, 1942, to Ora Lonnie and Maudie Lou Williams Southern in Bienville Parish, LA, and passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Bossier City, LA.

Services honoring the life of Carol Fay Southern Davis will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, LA. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Plain Dealing Cemetery, located on Plain Dealing Cemetery Road, Plain Dealing, LA 71064. Brother Harrell Shelton of Airline Baptist Church will officiate.

She is survived by her husband, Jimmie T. Davis, Jr., of Bossier City, LA; daughter, Seleta Davis Rich, and husband, Ray Clark, of Hot Springs, AR; and son, Scott Davis, and wife, Christy Wright Davis, of Bossier City, LA. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Keelan Rich and wife, Asyra Rich; Lauren Davis Shively and husband, Zachary Shively; Dylan Rich and wife, Reshma Rich. Her great‑grandchildren include Bennie Rich, Andrew Shively, Raya Rich, Emma Shively, Felix Rich, and Xiomara Rich. She is also survived by her brothers, Charles Lynn Southern and Daniel Maurie Southern; sister, Dale Marie Southern DeSoto; and brothers, Robert Lloyd Southern and T.L. Southern, and numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her beloved Beagle, Willie.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ora Lonnie Southern; mother, Maudie Lou Williams Southern; brother, Harold “Bill” Clinton Southern; and sister, Wanda Ann Southern.

Pallbearers will be Greg Davis, Phillip Davis, Billy Weeks, Keelan Rich, Dylan Rich, and Zachary Shively. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Greg Kimbrough and Jason Turner.

Carol was a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt to her family, whom she loved with all her heart. She valued every relationship with each family member in her own special way. She especially cherished her time with her great-grandchildren.

Carol was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, the Lambda Alpha Club, and the Right of Way Association of Louisiana. She was also a Lifetime Notary. She worked as a real estate agent for the Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development and retired after more than 30 years of service. She was known for her strong work ethic, her devotion to her family, and her kind and steady presence in the lives of those who knew her.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Amedisys Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate care and support, especially Christie, Ann, Brianna, Betty, and Brother Jim.

Special thanks also to Brother Harrell Shelton from Airline Baptist Church for his visits and prayers.

Carol left a message for her family and friends:

“God has been so good to me. He has blessed me with so many people in my life along the way, so many dear friends and family to love and to thank for being part of my journey. I love and appreciate each of you, and I pray God’s blessings for all of you.”

In lieu of flowers, Carol requested donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, http://www.stjude.org.

Julian Whittington administered the oath of affirmation during a swearing-in ceremony for new members of the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The ceremony, held at the Sheriff’s Conference Room at the Bossier Parish Corrections Command Center in Plain Dealing, welcomed three new full-time deputies—Julian Fowler, Shay Morris and Colin Wilson—along with part-time Corrections Officer Richard Childers and part-time courthouse security/bailiff Deputy Don Vishnefski.

Sheriff Whittington welcomed the new hires and recognized their commitment to public service, noting they are joining a dedicated team serving the residents of Bossier Parish.

The three full-time deputies and the part-time corrections officer will begin their careers working in one of the sheriff’s office correctional facilities as they start their law enforcement careers.

The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office continues to recruit individuals interested in careers in public service. Applicants for deputy positions must be at least 21 years old, while correctional officer positions are available for individuals 18 and older.

For more information or to begin the application process, contact the Human Resources recruiting section. Sgt. Forrest Collins can be reached at 318-935-2146.

By Matt Vines, LSUS

LSU Shreveport debater Lindsey Brown claimed two varsity national championships in debate in the International Public Debate Association’s national tournament at Middle Tennessee State University.

Brown clawed her way through five knockout rounds with a 16-1 record, dropping her only round in the finals before rattling off four straight wins to take the title.

The first-year transfer from Bossier Parish Community College also picked up a speaker national title, which measures students on their debate presentation and style.

“Lindsey is a powerhouse – there is no other way to say it,” said Lindsay Duede, who finished her first season as LSUS’s debate coach. “All season she has been able to adapt to anything I’ve thrown at her.

“She came in with a very strong foundation, but not once did she get complacent. I’m even more proud of her growth as a teammate, and she’s transformed into a wonderful leader and teacher after adjusting to a larger team here at LSUS.”

While Brown won tournament titles, LSUS nearly snatched a season-long championship in the professional division.

CJ Longino finished second in debate and third as a speaker in that professional division, nearly adding to his trophy count after winning a TIPDA (team) national title with partner Cameron Thoele and a team speaking title in 2025.

“CJ wasn’t going to compete this year and instead focus on helping me coach the team, but a couple weeks in, I had CJ do a practice round against another competitor,” Duede said. “They are just too dang good to sit on the bench.

“CJ is a force to be reckoned with, and just one more round win over the course of this entire season would have meant another national title for him. That’s bittersweet, but still worth celebrating as the professional division is profoundly difficult.”

The professional division includes graduate students and alumni.

As a team, LSUS placed fourth in the season-long standings in the professional division and fourth in the team debate category.

Brown contributed to the latter as she and partner Addison Jacobsen reached the octofinals in the national tournament and finished ninth in the season-long standings.

Other top-50 LSUS pairs (191 pairs total) include Kaleb Schmidley/Heidi Tyler (10^th), Jasmine Forck/Madeline McClatchey (20^th), Emily Dowd/Josephine Moore (35^th), Levi Grubbs/Param Thakkar (41^st).

Schmidley/Tyler won a national title at the earlier Pi Kappa Delta event in March.

In the professional ranks, Longino was joined by top performers like Ephraim Mensah (22^nd), Devesh Sarda (23^rd) and Heidi Tyler (32^nd).

“The cool thing about sweepstakes awards is that they celebrate the work of all competitors in that division,” Duede said. “This gives all students the ability to feel celebrated for their work even if they didn’t always achieve the individual results that they desire.

“Every single win adds up – and we’re really lucky to have a consistent squad. Teamwide nearly every single person left at least one tournament with individual recognition, proving that each of them has the potential they need to have a breakaway moment.”

As a team, LSUS finished 11^th in the Founders season-long sweepstakes (all levels of individual debate) and 14^th in the Scholastic sweepstakes (all undergraduate individual debate levels and team debate).

A great start for Duede, who joined the program this past summer after being drawn to the LSUS Debate brand because of its team camaraderie.

“The first year has been such an incredible experience,” Duede said. “I won’t pretend it has been easy – this team has gone through a lot over the course of the year.

“It has been inspiring to watch them show up for each other again and again. I am consistently reminded by these amazing students exactly why I am here and just how much debate can transform lives.”

The competitions may be over this season, but the LSUS Debate team has two community events this week.

On Wednesday, the team is hosting a public speaking contest where students can earn up to $250 for their persuasive speeches.

The team has also participated in filming a documentary about LSUS Debate. The first of two episodes will air Friday at 8 p.m. on the KTAL Now app.

The first episode will feature a watch party with the team on campus.

The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office D.A.R.E. team partnered with local organizations to support students and staff at Linwood Public Charter School during a difficult time.

Deputies, along with Community Friends and other partners, provided donuts for students in an effort to lift spirits on campus.

Teachers also received meals from Raising Cane’s, made possible through a donation from Freedom Consulting Firm LLC, along with drinks from the Raising Cane’s location on Mansfield Road.

Officials expressed appreciation to all organizations and individuals who contributed to supporting the school community.

Glenda English Laird, born October 20, 1937, in Mansfield, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, in Shreveport, Louisiana. She was the daughter of Dora Burford Lollar and Austin Glen English.

Glenda graduated from Mansfield High School before moving to Shreveport, where she met and married the love of her life, Joseph Oscar Laird. Together, they shared 60 years of marriage. She was a member of First United Methodist Church, where she and her husband were active in the Maida Mickle class and served in numerous volunteer roles.

Glenda served as president of the Fleur-de-Lis Garden Club and was a member of the Shreveport Geological Auxiliary Club. She also volunteered as a Girl Scout leader for her three daughters and worked as a florist and legal secretary.

She had a gift for creating a warm and beautiful home. Her love for art, flowers and home design inspired her daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joseph O. Laird; and her son, Joseph O. Laird Jr.

Glenda is survived by her daughters, Karen Laird Porter, Patricia Laird McClelland (George) and Sarah Laird Calhoun; her grandchildren, Heather Price (Marc), John Porter (Mary Claire), Caroline Porter, Melissa Porter, Ashley Gallifant (Caleb), Sara David (Blake), Joseph McClelland, Benjamin McClelland and Cole Calhoun; and 10 great-grandchildren.

The family extends gratitude to her caregivers—Buheia Williams, Sillia Hudson, Gloria Cayton and Linda Wells—and the staff at Lifepath Hospice Care.

A private graveside service for immediate family will be held April 21 at Forest Park Cemetery in Shreveport. Charities important to her included Shriners Children’s Hospital, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and First United Methodist Church Eternal Flame.

Glenda will be remembered as a devoted wife and now rests beside her husband.