Hornets Lose, Lady Hornets Win

On Tuesday, the Hornets played Lincoln Prep and lost by just two points. The final score was 62-64.

Yesterday, the Lady Hornets played Simsboro and won, 45-31.

Arcadia Boys Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/15/2022 6:00 PMSummerfieldAwayWin55-51
11/17/2022 6:30 PMMinden
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayLoss43-61
11/29/2022 6:00 PMSalineHomeCancelledCancelled
12/1/2022 6:15 PMRinggold
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
HomeWin66-65
12/2/2022 6:15 PMSaline
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin48-42
12/3/2022 7:30 PMGibsland-Coleman
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss57-74
12/5/2022 7:00 PMSimsboroAwayLoss51-59
12/9/2022 7:00 PMGibsland-ColemanAwayLoss41-66
12/12/2022 7:00 PMRustonHomeLoss48-70
12/16/2022 4:00 PMNeville
(Ruston Tournament)
AwayLoss49-53
12/17/2022 2:00 PMSouthwood
(Ruston Tournament)
AwayWin62-57
12/20/2022 7:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolHomeLoss62-64
12/22/2022 7:00 PMSimsboroHome
12/23/2022 7:00 PMGibsland-ColemanHome
12/30/2022 7:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeHome
1/3/2023 7:00 PMGreen OaksHome
1/6/2023 7:00 PMLakesideAway
1/9/2023 7:00 PMGlenbrookHome
1/10/2023 7:00 PMRinggoldHome
1/13/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
1/17/2023 7:00 PMHomerHome
1/20/2023 7:00 PMMagnolia School of ExcellenceAway
1/23/2023 7:00 PMPlain DealingAway
1/27/2023 7:00 PMGlenbrookAway
1/28/2023 7:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolAway
1/31/2023 7:00 PMRinggoldAway
2/3/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleHome
2/6/2023 7:00 PMHomerAway
2/7/2023 7:00 PMMagnolia School of ExcellenceHome
2/10/2023 7:00 PMPlain DealingHome
2/17/2023 7:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeAway

Arcadia Girls Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/15/2022 6:00 PMSummerfieldAwayWin49-35
11/15/2022 3:30 PMNorth DeSoto
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayWin36-29
11/21/2022 5:40 PMOuachita Parish
(Wossman Tournament)
AwayLoss60-62
11/22/2022 1:00 PMNeville
(Wossman Tournament)
AwayLoss41-53
11/29/2022 6:00 PMSalineHomeCancelledCancelled
12/1/2022 5:00 PMRinggold
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin50-3
12/2/2022 5:00 PMSaline
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin47-31
12/3/2022 6:00 PMGibsland-Coleman
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss48-57
12/6/2022 6:00 PMSimsboroAwayWin41-24
12/9/2022 6:00 PMGibsland-ColemanAwayLoss33-57
12/12/2022 5:30 PMRustonHomeWin38-36
12/14/2022 6:40 PMMansfield
(Minden Tournament)
AwayLoss30-33
12/15/2022 4:00 PMNorth Caddo
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin43-19
12/16/2022 4:00 PMLoyola Prep
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin27-17
12/17/2022 4:00 PMSimsboro
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin50-31
12/20/2022 6:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolHome
12/22/2022 6:00 PMSimsboroHomeWin45-31
12/23/2022 6:00 PMGibsland-ColemanHome
12/30/2022 6:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeHome
1/3/2023 6:00 PMGreen OaksHome
1/6/2023 6:00 PMLakesideAway
1/9/2023 6:00 PMGlenbrookHome
1/10/2023 6:00 PMRinggoldHome
1/13/2023 6:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
1/17/2023 6:00 PMHomerHome
1/23/2023 6:00 PMPlain DealingAway
1/27/2023 6:00 PMGlenbrookAway
1/28/2023 6:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolAway
1/31/2023 6:00 PMRinggoldAway
2/3/2023 6:00 PMHaynesvilleHome
2/6/2023 6:00 PMHomerAway
2/10/2023 6:00 PMPlain DealingHome

Tigers Win, Lady Tigers Lose Against Ouachita Christian

On Tuesday, the Tigers played Ouachita Christian and won, 84-57.

On Tuesday, the Lady Tigers played Ouachita Christian and lost, 42-44.

Please see schedules below.

Castor Boys Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 7:30 PMDownsvilleHomeWin78-17 
11/3/2022 6:30 PMWeston
(Dodson Tournament)
AwayWin64-34
11/4/2022 5:00 PMCalvin
(Dodson Tournament)
AwayLoss51-54
11/8/2022 7:00 PMFlorienAway
11/8/2022 7:00 PMClaiborne ChristianAwayLoss64-66
11/11/2022 5:30 PMPleasant Hill
(Ebarb Tournament)
AwayWin53-33
11/12/2022 12:15:00 AMStanley
(Ebarb Tournament)
AwayLoss52-55
11/15/2022 7:00 PMCalvinAwayLoss58-66
11/18/2022 6:30 PMClaiborne ChristianHomeWin61-53
11/21/2022 7:00 PMDodsonAwayCancelledCancelled
11/29/2022 7:00 PMStanleyHome
12/2/2022 7:30 PMGibsland-Coleman
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss44-75
12/6/2022 7:00 PMSalineAwayLoss41-44
12/9/2022 7:00 PMGlenbrookAwayWin82-58
12/13/2022 7:00 PMNegreetAway
12/13/2022 7:00 PMChoudrantHome
12/15/2022 7:30 PMHaynesville
(Castor Tournament)
AwayWin82-40
12/17/2022 1:15 PMEbarb
(Castor Tournament)
HomeLost47-58
12/20/2022Ouachita Christian AwayWin84-57
1/3/2023 7:00 PMDodsonHome
1/6/2023 7:15 PMDownsvilleAway
1/9/2023 7:00 PMHornbeckAway
1/13/2023 7:00 PMChoudrantHome
1/16/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
1/19/2023 7:00 PMRed River Away
1/24/2023 6:00 PMQuitmanHome
1/27/2023 7:00 PMDoylineAway
1/31/2023 7:00 PMWestonHome
2/2/2023 7:00 PMSalineHome
2/3/2023 6:00 PMQuitmanAway
2/7/2023 7:00 PMDoylineHome
2/9/2023 7:00 PMWestonAway
2/10/2023 7:00 PMWestonAway
2/13/2023 6:00 PMPlainviewHome
2/17/2023 7:00 PMCalvinHome

Castor Girls Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 6:00 PMDownsvilleHomeWin68-25
11/3/2022 5:00 PMWeston
(Dodson Tournament)
AwayLoss79-87
11/8/2022 6:00 PMClaiborne ChristianAwayWin43-30
11/11/2022 7:00 PMEbarb
(Ebarb Tournament)
AwayLoss29-49
11/12/2022 1:30 PMPitkin
(Ebarb Tournament)
AwayLoss21-68
11/15/2022 5:00 PMCalvinAwayWin72-54
11/18/2022 6:00 PMClaiborne ChristianHomeWin53-49
11/21/2022 6:00 PMDodsonAwayCancelledCancelled
11/29/2022 6:00 PMStanleyHome
12/1/2022 7:30 PMGibsland-Coleman
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss48-67
12/6/2022 6:00 PMSalineAwayWin51-22
12/9/2022 6:00 PMGlenbrookAwayWin68-27
12/13/2022 6:00 PMNegreetAway
12/15/2022 6:30 PMHaynesville
(Castor Tournament)
AwayWin62-40
12/17/2022 12:00 PMEbarb
(Castor Tournament)
AwayWin52-44
12/20/2022 6:00 PMOuachita ChristianAwayLoss42-44
1/3/2023 6:00 PMDodsonHome
1/6/2023 6:00 PMDownsvilleAway
1/9/2023 5:00 PMHornbeckAway
1/13/2023 6:00 PMChoudrantHome
1/16/2023 6:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
1/19/2023 6:00 PMRed RiverAway
1/24/2023 6:00 PMQuitmanHome
1/27/2023 6:00 PMDoylineAway
1/31/2023 6:00 PMWestonHome
2/2/2023 6:00 PMSalineHome
2/3/2023 6:00 PMQuitmanAway
2/7/2023 6:00 PMDoylineHome
2/9/2023 6:00 PMWestonAway
2/10/2023 6:00 PMWestonAway

Bulldogs, Lady Bulldogs Lose to Parkway

On Wednesday, the Bulldogs played Parkway and lost, 64-79.

On Wednesday, the Lady Bulldogs played Parkway and lost, 26-63.

Please see the schedules below.

Gibsland-Coleman Boys Basketball Schedule

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 6:00 PMSalineAwayWin59-37
11/4/2022 5:15 PMSummerfield
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayWin70-47
11/5/2022 4:15 PMChoudrant
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayWin64-49
11/7/2022 6:00 PMAtlantaAwayWin69-19
11/11/2022 7:00 PMSimsboro
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin61-31
11/12/2022 5:00:00 PMAtlanta
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin81-26
11/15/2022 6:00 PMUnion ParishAwayWin81-38
11/16/2022 7:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolHomePP
11/18/2022 7:00 PMEvangel ChristianHomePP
11/22/2022 6:00 PMMindenHomeWin56-51
11/29/2022 6:00 PMParkwayAwayPP
12/2/2022 7:30 PMCastor
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin75-44
12/3/2022 7:30 PMArcadia
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin74-57
12/9/2022 7:00 PMArcadiaHomeWin66-41
12/10/2022 5:45 PMRayville
(Southwood Tournament)
AwayLoss60-69
12/12/2022 7:00 PMRinggoldHomeWin80-54
12/14/2022 8:00 PMNorthwood – Shrev.
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin49-48
12/15/2022 6:40 PMCalvary Baptist
(Minden Tournament)
AwayLoss71-75
12/19/2022 7:00 PMRustonAwayLoss31-66
12/21/2022 5:20 PMParkwayAwayLoss64-79
12/23/2022 7:00 PMArcadiaAway
1/6/2023 7:00 PMChoudrantHome
1/12/2023 7:00 PMHuntingtonAway
1/17/2023 7:00 PMSimsboroAway
1/20/2023 5:00 PMKilbourneAway
1/24/2023 7:00 PMSummerfieldHome
1/27/2023 7:00 PMFamily CommunityHome
2/2/2023 7:00 PMHomerAway
2/7/2023 6:30 PMClaiborne ChristianHome

Gibsland-Coleman Girls Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 6:00 PMSalineAwayWin55-16 
11/4/2022 4:00 PMSummerfield 
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayWin53-38
11/5/2022 3:00 PMChoudrant
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayWin57-6
11/7/2022 5:00 PMAtlantaAwayWin58-8
11/11/2022 6:00 PMSimsboro
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin54-40
11/12/2022 4:00 PMAtlanta
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin69-5
11/15/2022 6:00 PMUnion ParishAwayLoss46-48
11/16/2022 6:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolHomePP
11/18/2022 6:00 PMEvangel ChristianHomePP
11/29/2022 6:00 PMParkwayAwayPP
12/1/2022 7:30 PMCastor
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin67-48
12/3/2022 6:00 PMArcadia
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin57-48
12/9/2022 6:00 PMArcadiaHomeWin57-33
12/10/2022 6:00 PMHuntington
(Southwood Tournament)
AwayLoss39-70
12/12/2022 6:00 PMRinggoldHomeWin71-16
12/14/2022 4:00 PMLoyola Prep
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin49-9
12/16/2022 4:00 PMMansfield
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin56-36
12/17/2022 6:40 PMMinden
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin60-35
12/19/2022 5:00 PMRustonAwayWin43-40
12/21/2022 4:00 PMParkwayAwayLoss26-63
12/23/2022 6:00 PMArcadiaAway
1/4/2023 6:00 PMParkwayHome
1/6/2023 6:00 PMChoudrantHome
1/12/2023 6:00 PMHuntingtonHome
1/17/2023 6:00 PMSimsboroAway
1/20/2023 5:00 PMKilbourneAway
1/24/2023 6:00 PMSummerfieldHome
1/27/2023 5:30 PMFamily CommunityHome
1/28/2023 6:00 PMRosepineAway
2/2/2023 6:00 PMHomerAway
2/7/2023 5:30 PMClaiborne ChristianHome

Today in History: December 23

1688 – As part of the Glorious Revolution, King James II of England fled from England to Paris, France after being deposed in favor of his son-in-law and nephew, William of Orange and his daughter Mary.

1783 – George Washington resigned as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army at the Maryland State House in Annapolis, Maryland.

1815 – The novel Emma by Jane Austen was first published.

1893 – The opera Hansel and Gretel by Engelbert Humperdinck was first performed.

1913 – The Federal Reserve Act was signed into law by President Woodrow Wilson, thus creating the Federal Reserve System.

1914 – World War I: During the Battle of Sarikamish, Ottoman forces mistook one another for Russian troops. The following friendly fire incident left 2,000 Ottomans dead and many more wounded.

1941 – World War II: After 15 days of fighting, the Imperial Japanese Army occupied Wake Island.

1947 – The transistor was first demonstrated at Bell Laboratories.

1948 – Seven Japanese military and political leaders convicted of war crimes by the International Military Tribunal for the Far East were executed by Allied occupation authorities at Sugamo Prison in Tokyo, Japan.

1950 – General Walton Walker died in a jeep accident and was replaced by General Matthew Ridgway in the Eighth United States Army.

1954 – First successful kidney transplant was performed by J. Hartwell Harrison and Joseph Murray.

1959 – Chuck Berry was arrested for transporting a minor across a state line for an immoral purpose.

1959 – The Drifters recorded “This Magic Moment.”

1964 – Brian Wilson (Beach Boys) suffered a nervous breakdown on a flight from L.A. to Houston. The event led Wilson to stop touring with the group. 1964 – The Beach Boys made their first appearance on Shingdig! The show had been taped on December 14.

1968 – The 82 sailors from the USS Pueblo were released after eleven months of internment in North Korea.

1970 – The North Tower of the World Trade Center in Manhattan, New York, New York was topped out at 417 metres (1,368 ft), which made it the tallest building in the world.

1972 – The 16 survivors of the Andes flight disaster were rescued after 73 days, surviving by cannibalism.

1977 – Cat Stevens converted to Islam. He later changed his name to Yusuf Islam.

1986 – Voyager, piloted by Dick Rutan and Jeana Yeager, landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California becoming the first aircraft to fly non-stop around the world without aerial or ground refueling.

1991 – James Brown sued the producers of the movie The Commitments. Brown claimed that one of the characters too closely resembled him. He lost the case.

2002 – A U.S. MQ-1 Predator was shot down by an Iraqi MiG-25 in the first combat engagement between a drone and conventional aircraft.


Redskins Win, Ladyskins Lose Against River Oaks

On Wednesday, the Redskins played River Oaks and won, 74-40.

On Wednesday, the Ladyskins played River Oaks and lost, 15-61.

Ringgold Boys Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/15/2022 7:00 PMRiver OaksHomeWin90-30
11/16/2022 6:30 PMNorth Webster
(Lakeside Tournamentaa)
AwayWin80-15
11/18/2022 6:30 PMLakeside
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayWin66-48
11/19/2022 4:30 PMMinden
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayWin66-54
11/22/2022 11:30 AMMagnolia School of Excellence
(Woodlawn – Shreveport Tournament)
AwayWin76-66
11/23/2022 2:00 PMGreen Oaks
(Woodlawn – Shreveport Tournament)
HomeLoss38-50
11/28/2022 7:00 PMEvangel ChristianHomeLoss24-51
11/29/2022 7:00 PMRiver OaksAwayPP
12/1/2022 6:15 PMArcadiaAwayLoss65-66
12/5/2022 7:00 PMLakesideHomeWin56-30
12/8/2022 7:00 PMCalvary BaptistAwayLoss53-62
12/12/2022 7:00 PMGibsland-ColemanAwayLoss54-80
12/13/2022 7:00 PMSalineAwayPP
12/14/2022 8:00 PMNorth Caddo
(Minden Tournament)
HomeLoss58-62
12/15/2022 5:20 PMHomer
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin81-59
12/16/2022 8:00 PMLakeside
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin71-49
12/17/2022 5:20 PMHaughton
(Minden Tournament)
Away
12/19/2022 7:00 PMNorth WebsterAwayWin63-15
12/21/2022 7:00 PMRiver OaksAwayWin74-40
12/23/2022 7:00 PMRed RiverHome
12/28/2022 4:30 PMMansfield
(Airline Tournament)
Away
1/6/2023 7:00 PMPlain DealingAway
1/9/2023 7:00 PMHomerHome
1/10/2023 7:00 PMArcadiaAway
1/13/2023 7:00 PMGlenbrookHome
1/20/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleHome
1/23/2023 7:00 PMMagnolia School of ExcellenceAway
1/24/2023 7:00 PMPlain DealingHome
1/27/2023 7:00 PMHomerAway
1/31/2023 7:00 PMArcadiaHome
2/3/2023 7:00 PMGlenbrookAway
2/7/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
2/10/2023 7:00 PMMagnolia School of ExcellenceHome
2/14/2023 6:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeHome

Ringgold Girls Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/15/2022 6:00:00 PMRiver OaksHomeLoss36-50
11/16/2022 5:00 PMLakeside
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayWin54-34
11/18/2022 5:00 PMMinden
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayLoss19-55
11/28/2022 6:00:00 PMEvangel ChristianHomeWin42-16
11/29/2022 6:00:00 PMRiver OaksAwayPP
12/1/2022 5:00 PMArcadiaAwayLoss3-50
12/5/2022 6:00:00 PMLakesideHomeWin51-42
12/8/2022 6:00:00 PMCalvary BaptistAwayLoss18-44
12/12/2022 6:00:00 PMGibsland-ColemanAwayLoss16-71
12/13/2022 6:00:00 PMSalineAway
12/14/2022 6:40 PMMinden
(Minden Tournament)
AwayLoss25-59
12/16/2022 6:40 PMSimsboro
(Minden Tournament)
AwayLoss29-59
12/19/2022 6:00:00 PMNorth WebsterHomeLoss37-48
12/21/2022 7:00 PMRiver OaksAwayLoss15-61
12/23/2022 6:00:00 PMRed RiverHome
1/6/2023 6:00:00 PMPlain DealingAway
1/9/2023 6:00:00 PMHomerHome
1/10/2023 6:00:00 PMArcadiaAway
1/13/2023 6:00:00 PMGlenbrookHome
1/20/2023HaynesvilleHome
1/24/2023 6:00:00 PMPlain DealingHome
1/27/2023 6:00:00 PMHomerAway
1/31/2023 6:00:00 PMArcadiaHome
2/3/2023 6:00:00 PMGlenbrookAway
2/7/2023 6:00:00 PMHaynesvilleAway

Cryptoquote

Print this page to work the puzzle.  If you are unable to print this page you can download it by clicking “Download” below.

Instructions:
ZCIRPZCI is EINSTEIN
In Cryptoquotes, one letter stands for another. In the example above, Z is used for two E’s, I for the two N’s, etc. Single letters, double letters, apostrophes, the length and formation of the words are all hints. The code letters change with each puzzle.

TODAY’S CRYPTOQUOTE:

“FNRTONPPR YLVNJD HEMVTLP INJDRJ RLUD EK WEM L ORVW CRVVW UDVNJACLJ.” ~ FVLQ QNJET

Previous Cryptoquote solution:  “I didn’t fail the test. I just found one hundred ways to do it wrong.” ~ Benjamin Franklin


Angler’s Perspective: If Santa Claus Was a Bass Pro

Just for kicks and giggles, let’s pretend that Santa Claus became a touring bass pro. What would that look like? Who would be his major sponsors? What would be his favorite technique? What brand boat would Santa run, or would he just transform his sleigh into a fishing machine?

First, Santa would probably have to lose a few pounds in order to compete at the highest level. Fishing the tour is a grind and it’s not for someone carrying 50 to 80 pounds of extra weight. But the extra weight would come in handy for insulation on those cold early-season boat runs. He would definitely have to give up the cookies and gingerbread that he so dearly loves while joining the North Pole Fitness Center.

Now that we have a much slimmer Santa, let’s look at who would sponsor Jolly Ole Saint Nick. Obviously, it would have to be the best sponsors in the industry on a global level. When it comes to what rod and reel line he would choose, I think his first choice would be 13 Fishing. Since 2012 this company has risen to the highest ranks in the fishing industry. Of course, Santa would want nothing but the best and I think he would choose 13 Fishing’s Concept A3 series as his reel of choice.

What kind of fisherman would Santa be? More than likely a power fisherman. A guy of his stature and physical presence would probably like to chunk and wind a spinnerbait or crankbait, or maybe he would like to flip and pitch a jig. Either way, he would be an angler who would never pick up a spinning rod, or as some pros call it…a Fairy wand.

Now, what kind of fishing line would he spool on his reels? Well, that’s an easy answer! Only the best will do for the man in the big red suit, so that would be Seaguar fishing line. They carry the best fluorocarbon and braided lines made on the planet. As for hooks, what would he use? Again, it’s a no-brainer! He would choose a Japanese brand, Gamakatsu Hooks, the number one brand used by the best pros in the world. Not even his elves could produce a better hook from scratch.

What about a boat…what brand of the boat would fit Santa and fulfill his every need? One thing we’ve made clear, Santa likes the latest and greatest when it comes to products and has nothing but the highest of standards. There are lots of boats that would be okay, like Ranger, Skeeter or Bass Cat, but today he would choose Caymas. This would give him the best combination in terms of speed, ride, comfort, and fishability. Caymas truly is not only a great boat but one of the newest brands on the market today and becoming very popular among tournament anglers. Don’t just take my word for it, stop by The Boat Shop in Shreveport, Louisiana, and see for yourself why so many anglers are switching over.

Can you imagine how his boat would be wrapped? There would be all the colors of Christmas and every sponsor would be displayed proudly all the while paying homage to Rudolph and the other eight reindeer with their photo image on the wrap. Obviously, there would be a grand display of red and green Christmas lights from bow to stern that would light up an entire body of water. No one would have a better-looking boat than Santa with his heated boat seats and automatic hot chocolate dispenser! Oh, he’ll also need a truck to pull that Caymas boat with. How about a new Ford F150 4X4 pick-up truck from Jimmy Granger’s Natchitoches Ford! This would complete Santa’s fishing rig and have him hitting the tournament trail in style.

Christmas is a special time of year and the fact that Santa is real makes it even more special. Like I still remind my kids who are now in their 20s and 30s, when you stop believing, he stops leaving the gifts you so enjoy. But at our house, we know the true meaning of Christmas and celebrate it by honoring the birth of Jesus by making a fresh batch of cinnamon rolls and placing a candle in the middle, and singing happy birthday to our Lord and Savior. I hope you’ve enjoyed looking at what kind of fishing pro-Saint Nick would be if he chose to change his profession. Till next time good luck, good fishing, and Merry Christmas! Here’s hoping your stocking is filled with some great bass-catching lures and plenty of sunscreens!

Steve Graf
Hook’N Up & Track’N Down Show &
Tackle Talk Live


Bobcats, Lady Bobcats Win Against D’Arbonne Woods Charter

Created with GIMP

On Tuesday, the Bobcats played D’Arbonne Woods Charter and won, 60-39.

On Tuesday, the Lady Bobcats played D’Arbonne Woods Charter and won, 48-35.

See Schedules Below.

Saline Bobcats Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 6:00 PMGibsland-ColemanHomeLoss37-59
11/3/2022 6:45 PMChoudrantAwayLoss57-67
11/5/2022 1:45 PMSummerfieldAwayLoss59-70
11/7/2022 5:00 PMQuitmanAwayLoss28-48
11/10/2022 5:15 PMWeston
(Calvin Tournament)
AwayWin63-29
11/11/2022 5:15 PMChoudrant
(Calvin Tournament)
AwayLoss47-58
11/15/2022 7:00 PMLakeviewAwayLoss25-69
11/17/2022 7:00 PMHaughton
(Saline Tournament)
AwayLoss48-66
11/19/2022 7:45 PMQuitman
(Saline Tournament)
AwayLoss43-47
11/29/2022 6:00 PMArcadiaAwayCancelledCancelled
12/2/2022 6:15 PMArcadia
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss42-48
12/5/2022Ouachita ChristianHomeWin55-28
12/6/2022 7:00 PMCastorHomeWin44-41
12/8/2022 7:45 PMCedar Creek
(Cedar Creek Tournament)
AwayWin48-47
12/9/2022 7:45 PMHaynesville
(Cedar Creek Tournament)
AwayWin48-40
12/10/2022 7:00 PMCalvinAwayWin48-41
12/13/2022 7:00 PMRinggoldHomeCancelledCancelled
12/16/2022 7:00 PMChoudrantHomeLoss42-58
12/20/2022 6:00 PMD’Arbonne Woods CharterAwayWin60-39
1/3/2023Ouachita ChristianAway
1/6/2023 6:00 PMCedar CreekAway
1/9/2023 7:00 PMWestonAway
1/10/2023 7:00 PMAtlantaHome
1/13/2023 7:00 PMDodsonAway
1/16/2023 7:00 PMCedar CreekHome
1/17/2023 7:00 PMCalvinAway
1/19/2023 5:00 PMQuitmanHome
1/20/2023 5:00 PMCentral – JonesvilleHome
1/24/2023 6:00 PMGeorgetownAway
1/26/2023 6:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeAway
1/27/2023 7:00 PMDodsonHome
1/31/2023 7:00 PMAtlantaAway
2/2/2023 7:00 PMCastorAway
2/3/2023 7:00 PMCalvinHome
2/7/2023 5:00 PMCentral – JonesvilleAway
2/10/2023 6:00 PMGeorgetownHome
2/14/2023 5:00 PMSterlingtonHome

Saline Lady Bobcats

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 6:00 PMGibsland-ColemanHomeLoss16-55
11/3/2022 5:30 PMChoudrant
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayWinn53-38
11/5/2022 12:30 PMSummerfield
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayLoss38-39
11/7/2022 6:00 PMQuitmanAwayLoss34-60
11/10/2022 4:00 PMWeston
(Calvin Tournament)
AwayLoss35-65
11/15/2022 6:00 PMLakeviewAwayLoss29-55
11/17/2022 6:30 PMHaughton
(Saline Tournament)
AwayLoss34-57
11/18/2022 4:00 PMOuachita ChristianAwayLoss43-58
11/29/2022 6:00 PMArcadiaAwayCancelledCancelled
12/2/2022 5:00 PMArcadia
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss31-47
12/5/2022 6:00 PMOuachita Christian HomeLoss48-50
12/6/2022 6:00 PMCastorHomeLoss22-51
12/8/2022 4:00 PMHaughton
(Cedar Creek Tournament)
AwayLoss32-59
12/10/2022 4:30 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolAwayWin41-29 
12/13/2022 6:00 PMRinggoldHome
12/15/2022 6:00 PMDoylineHomeCancelledCancelled
12/16/2022 6:00 PMChoudrantHomeWin37-17
12/20/2022 6:00 PMD’Arbonne Woods Charter AwayWin48-35
1/3/2023 6:00 PMOuachita Christian Away
1/6/2023 6:00 PMCedar CreekAway
1/9/2023 6:00 PMWestonAway
1/10/2023 6:00 PMAtlantaHome
1/13/2023 6:00 PMDodsonAway
1/16/2023 6:00 PMCedar CreekHome
1/17/2023 5:00 PMCalvinAway
1/19/2023 6:00 PMQuitmanHome
1/20/2023 5:00 PMCentral – JonesvilleHome
1/24/2023 6:00 PMGeorgetownAway
1/26/2023 6:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeAway
1/27/2023 6:00 PMDodsonHome
1/31/2023 5:00 PMAtlantaAway
2/2/2023 6:00 PMCastorAway
2/3/2023 5:00 PMCalvinHome
2/7/2023 5:00 PMCentral – JonesvilleAway
2/10/2023 6:00 PMGeorgetownHome

Suspect Sought in Ringgold Armed Robbery; Caught Later Same Day

UPDATE:  At 7:26 p.m., December 20, 2022, Sheriff John Ballance posted the following message:  “BANK ROBBERY SUSPECT TAKEN INTO CUSTODY WITHOUT INCIDENT!! Great job Ringgold PD and BPSO!!!!”

Original Article:

Today at approximately 2:40 PM Bienville Sheriff’s Office 911 received a silent alarm from the Sabine Bank in Ringgold regarding a bank robbery in progress. An eyewitness gave a description and mode of travel to responding law enforcement from Ringgold PD and BPSO. Shortly thereafter, investigating officers located a weapon believed to be used in the robbery and a money bag containing US currency near the bank.

Further investigation has revealed the suspected gunman as Terrell Travor Glover of Ringgold who is believed to be dressed in black pants and shirt. Glover is described as a black male, 5-9, 145 pounds and is 24 years of age.

If you know the whereabouts of Glover or have recently seen him please call 911 immediately. It is unknown if Glover is armed at present!

Terrell Travor Glover

Remember the Four P’s of Winter Weather Preparedness: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants

Weather forecasters are predicting that our temperatures will be extremely cold for our area in the coming days (see picture below).  Be sure to take proper precautions and remember the four P’s of cold weather preparedness:

  • People:  When outside, dress in layers.  Avoid being outside for extended periods unless properly dressed.  Be sure to keep in contact with loved ones to ensure that they are safe and warm.  Never leave space heaters unattended and never use them while you sleep.  Never use kerosene or other gas-type heaters inside.  If you don’t have proper, safe heating for your home, stay with friends.  
  • Pets:  Bring your pets inside.  Avoid using heat lamps or light bulbs to keep animals warm as this is a serious fire hazard.  If you are cold, they are too.  Make sure livestock has proper food, water, and shelter as well.
  • Pipes:  Wrap exposed pipes when possible.  Be sure to leave your inside and outside faucets dripping when the temperatures drop below freezing.  
  • Plants:  Bring plants inside or cover them properly.

If you end up in a situation and need help, please call 911.


Lady Bulldogs Win Minden Tournament

On Saturday, the Lady Bulldogs played Mansfield in the Minden Tournament and won, 56-36.
On Saturday, the Lady Bulldogs played Minden in the tournament and won, 60-35.
On Monday, the Lady Bulldogs played Ruston and won, 43-40.

On Thursday, the Bulldogs played Calvary Baptist in the Minden Tournament and lost, 71-75.
On Monday, the Bulldogs played Ruston and lost, 31-66.

Please see the schedules below.

Gibsland-Coleman Boys Basketball Schedule

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 6:00 PMSalineAwayWin59-37
11/4/2022 5:15 PMSummerfield
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayWin70-47
11/5/2022 4:15 PMChoudrant
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayWin64-49
11/7/2022 6:00 PMAtlantaAwayWin69-19
11/11/2022 7:00 PMSimsboro
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin61-31
11/12/2022 5:00:00 PMAtlanta
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin81-26
11/15/2022 6:00 PMUnion ParishAwayWin81-38
11/16/2022 7:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolHomePP
11/18/2022 7:00 PMEvangel ChristianHomePP
11/22/2022 6:00 PMMindenHomeWin56-51
11/29/2022 6:00 PMParkwayAwayPP
12/2/2022 7:30 PMCastor
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin75-44
12/3/2022 7:30 PMArcadia
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin74-57
12/9/2022 7:00 PMArcadiaHomeWin66-41
12/10/2022 5:45 PMRayville
(Southwood Tournament)
AwayLoss60-69
12/12/2022 7:00 PMRinggoldHomeWin80-54
12/14/2022 8:00 PMNorthwood – Shrev.
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin49-48
12/15/2022 6:40 PMCalvary Baptist
(Minden Tournament)
AwayLoss71-75
12/19/2022 7:00 PMRustonAwayLoss31-66
12/23/2022 7:00 PMArcadiaAway
1/6/2023 7:00 PMChoudrantHome
1/12/2023 7:00 PMHuntingtonAway
1/17/2023 7:00 PMSimsboroAway
1/20/2023 5:00 PMKilbourneAway
1/24/2023 7:00 PMSummerfieldHome
1/27/2023 7:00 PMFamily CommunityHome
2/2/2023 7:00 PMHomerAway
2/7/2023 6:30 PMClaiborne ChristianHome

Gibsland-Coleman Girls Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 6:00 PMSalineAwayWin55-16 
11/4/2022 4:00 PMSummerfield 
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayWin53-38
11/5/2022 3:00 PMChoudrant
(Choudrant Tournament)
AwayWin57-6
11/7/2022 5:00 PMAtlantaAwayWin58-8
11/11/2022 6:00 PMSimsboro
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin54-40
11/12/2022 4:00 PMAtlanta
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin69-5
11/15/2022 6:00 PMUnion ParishAwayLoss46-48
11/16/2022 6:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolHomePP
11/18/2022 6:00 PMEvangel ChristianHomePP
11/29/2022 6:00 PMParkwayAwayPP
12/1/2022 7:30 PMCastor
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin67-48
12/3/2022 6:00 PMArcadia
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin57-48
12/9/2022 6:00 PMArcadiaHomeWin57-33
12/10/2022 6:00 PMHuntington
(Southwood Tournament)
AwayLoss39-70
12/12/2022 6:00 PMRinggoldHomeWin71-16
12/14/2022 4:00 PMLoyola Prep
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin49-9
12/16/2022 4:00 PMMansfield
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin56-36
12/17/2022 6:40 PMMinden
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin60-35
12/19/2022 5:00 PMRustonAwayWin43-40
12/23/2022 6:00 PMArcadiaAway
1/4/2023 6:00 PMParkwayHome
1/6/2023 6:00 PMChoudrantHome
1/12/2023 6:00 PMHuntingtonHome
1/17/2023 6:00 PMSimsboroAway
1/20/2023 5:00 PMKilbourneAway
1/24/2023 6:00 PMSummerfieldHome
1/27/2023 5:30 PMFamily CommunityHome
1/28/2023 6:00 PMRosepineAway
2/2/2023 6:00 PMHomerAway
2/7/2023 5:30 PMClaiborne ChristianHome

Josh Beaver: A short break from hate

This is a magical time of year. We are kinder. We smile more. We give and love to see the joy our gifts bring to those we love. We say Merry Christmas freely and without fear of offense. I do at least. I’m telling people Merry Christmas at 12:01 am after Thanksgiving Day. We stop being so consumed with our work and put family and friends first if only for a little while. 

 During this time of year, we are more than our jobs and what the government and our bosses, and a fickle society tell us to be. Rather we are the best of what we can be. We are men and women who want to see good in the world, and for a little while, just a sliver of a moment in the seemingly eternal struggle, we say there is more to the world than work and money and arguments and deadlines and commitments. 

 There is good and there is God and in the smiling faces of our friends, our husbands, and wives, and our children, we can see Him beaming back at us.

 I’m reminded of my favorite Christmas song:

Silent night! Holy night!
All is calm, all is bright
round yon Virgin Mother and Child,
Holy infant so tender and mild,
sleep in Heavenly peace!
sleep in Heavenly peace!

 Silent night! Holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight;
glories stream from Heaven afar,
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia,
Christ, the Saviour, is born!
Christ, the Saviour, is born!

 Silent night! Holy night!
Son of God, Love’s pure light
radiant, beams from Thy Holy face,
with the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord at Thy birth,
Jesus, Lord at Thy birth.

 That last bit – the part about Love’s pure light – resonates with me. God speaks directly to our hearts every day. But it seems like it’s only at Christmas that we take the time to listen. On that Silent Night, after the redeeming grace, we can truly know that our hope and faith in humanity can be reborn, just like hope for the world was redeemed 2,000 years ago with the birth of the Once and Future King. 

 I don’t think it’s a coincidence we hear Him a bit more this time of year. I don’t believe that at all. Peace on Earth and goodwill toward men during this time of year. 

 So, if I have one hope for this Christmas it would be the same hope I have for every Christmas. I hope that more of us can carry on the spirit of Christmas throughout the year. I hope that the people in charge will care a little bit less about power and more about what’s right. I hope the people with the money will care a little bit less about profit and a little bit more about humanity. And I hope the people with hate in their hearts will smother those flames under a blanket of love from the one above us and the ones around us. 

 Hate in the heart poisons the soul. I’ve been there. And I never want to go back, so I try to live every day like it’s Christmas Day. I fail a lot. But the point that matters is I keep trying. I won’t let the difficult people in this world – the cruel, the greedy, the politicians, the panderers, the schemers, and the fake folks who surround us – keep me from trying to make this place just a little bit better than it was before I entered it. I hope you too can find yourself working toward that goal. Stop worrying about gaining political points in a world that’s rigged against you. Stop worrying about what others think of you. God doesn’t care. So, neither should you. 

 Merry Christmas, my friends, my family, my brothers and sisters in Christ. Find peace in the promise and excitement of your own chance to be reborn. 

 Josh Beavers is a teacher and a writer. He has been recognized five times for excellence in opinion writing by the Louisiana Press Association. 


Humane Society of Louisiana Advises Pet and Livestock Owners to Provide Shelter for Their Animals

With the state bracing for additional freezing rain and cold weather that is expected to last several days, the Humane Society of Louisiana is urging pet and farm animal owners to provide all animals with adequate shelter. The Humane Society continues to field calls from the public who wish to report animals tied up in the freezing rain. “We are deeply concerned by the high number of calls we continue to receive on this issue. Providing a large, insulated dog house, bedding, or bringing your pets inside should be the proper course of action for any pet owner,” says Jeff Dorson, HSLA Director. “But, we continue to receive reports of dogs and other animals tied up in the freezing cold,” adds Dorson. “At the very least, pet owners should make space in their utility room for their dogs, cats, or puppies and provide a reliable heat source,” adds Dorson.

The state law requires that pet owners provide proper food, water, vet care, and shelter. However, since more than half of Louisiana’s 64 parishes lack animal control agencies that would normally respond to these reports, many complaints are overlooked and never investigated. Owners found in violation could be charged with a misdemeanor and face fines, penalties, and even imprisonment up to six months in jail. Most first time offenders, however, are rarely sentenced to serve any time; most pay a modest fine, court costs, and are placed on unsupervised probation. Still, the laws and their penalties should act as a sufficient deterrent, says the Humane Society.

“It’s important that pet and farm animal owners develop a sense of empathy so that they realize that the animals in their care can suffer from exposure to the elements just as we do. The best way we can develop empathy is to ask the pet owner to trade places with the dog he or she has tied up to a tree without any protection,” adds Dorson.

The Humane Society also asks large animal owners to provide shelter for their large animals in order to keep them warm and healthy. The Humane Society recommends providing large animals with access to lean-tos, stalls, sheds, or barns.

According to the Humane Society, animals can suffer from frost-bite, hyperthermia, and other cold-related ailments. The best way to prevent these problems is to provide sufficient warmth, protection, and shelter.

Those seeing violations are urged to call the local authorities.


Lady Hornets Take Third in Minden Tournament

On Thursday, the Lady Hornets played North Caddo in the Minden Tournament and won, 43-19.
On Friday, the Lady Hornets played Loyola Prep in the tournament and won, 27-17.
On Saturday, the Lady Hornets played Simsboro in the tournament and won, 50-31.

Congratulations to the Lady Hornets for their third place finish in the Minden High School Holiday Classic Tournament!

On Friday, the Hornets played Neville in the Ruston Tournament and lost, 49-53.
On Saturday, the Hornets played Southwood in the tournament and won, 62-57.

Arcadia Boys Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/15/2022 6:00 PMSummerfieldAwayWin55-51
11/17/2022 6:30 PMMinden
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayLoss43-61
11/29/2022 6:00 PMSalineHomeCancelledCancelled
12/1/2022 6:15 PMRinggold
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
HomeWin66-65
12/2/2022 6:15 PMSaline
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin48-42
12/3/2022 7:30 PMGibsland-Coleman
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss57-74
12/5/2022 7:00 PMSimsboroAwayLoss51-59
12/9/2022 7:00 PMGibsland-ColemanAwayLoss41-66
12/12/2022 7:00 PMRustonHomeLoss48-70
12/16/2022 4:00 PMNeville
(Ruston Tournament)
AwayLoss49-53
12/17/2022 2:00 PMSouthwood
(Ruston Tournament)
AwayWin62-57
12/20/2022 7:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolHome
12/22/2022 7:00 PMSimsboroHome
12/23/2022 7:00 PMGibsland-ColemanHome
12/30/2022 7:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeHome
1/3/2023 7:00 PMGreen OaksHome
1/6/2023 7:00 PMLakesideAway
1/9/2023 7:00 PMGlenbrookHome
1/10/2023 7:00 PMRinggoldHome
1/13/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
1/17/2023 7:00 PMHomerHome
1/20/2023 7:00 PMMagnolia School of ExcellenceAway
1/23/2023 7:00 PMPlain DealingAway
1/27/2023 7:00 PMGlenbrookAway
1/28/2023 7:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolAway
1/31/2023 7:00 PMRinggoldAway
2/3/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleHome
2/6/2023 7:00 PMHomerAway
2/7/2023 7:00 PMMagnolia School of ExcellenceHome
2/10/2023 7:00 PMPlain DealingHome
2/17/2023 7:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeAway

Arcadia Girls Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/15/2022 6:00 PMSummerfieldAwayWin49-35
11/15/2022 3:30 PMNorth DeSoto
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayWin36-29
11/21/2022 5:40 PMOuachita Parish
(Wossman Tournament)
AwayLoss60-62
11/22/2022 1:00 PMNeville
(Wossman Tournament)
AwayLoss41-53
11/29/2022 6:00 PMSalineHomeCancelledCancelled
12/1/2022 5:00 PMRinggold
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin50-3
12/2/2022 5:00 PMSaline
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayWin47-31
12/3/2022 6:00 PMGibsland-Coleman
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss48-57
12/6/2022 6:00 PMSimsboroAwayWin41-24
12/9/2022 6:00 PMGibsland-ColemanAwayLoss33-57
12/12/2022 5:30 PMRustonHomeWin38-36
12/14/2022 6:40 PMMansfield
(Minden Tournament)
AwayLoss30-33
12/15/2022 4:00 PMNorth Caddo
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin43-19
12/16/2022 4:00 PMLoyola Prep
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin27-17
12/17/2022 4:00 PMSimsboro
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin50-31
12/20/2022 6:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolHome
12/22/2022 6:00 PMSimsboroHome
12/23/2022 6:00 PMGibsland-ColemanHome
12/30/2022 6:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeHome
1/3/2023 6:00 PMGreen OaksHome
1/6/2023 6:00 PMLakesideAway
1/9/2023 6:00 PMGlenbrookHome
1/10/2023 6:00 PMRinggoldHome
1/13/2023 6:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
1/17/2023 6:00 PMHomerHome
1/23/2023 6:00 PMPlain DealingAway
1/27/2023 6:00 PMGlenbrookAway
1/28/2023 6:00 PMLincoln Preparatory SchoolAway
1/31/2023 6:00 PMRinggoldAway
2/3/2023 6:00 PMHaynesvilleHome
2/6/2023 6:00 PMHomerAway
2/10/2023 6:00 PMPlain DealingHome

Today in History: December 21

1620 – Plymouth Colony: William Bradford and the Mayflower Pilgrims landed on what is now known as Plymouth Rock in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

1826 – American settlers in Nacogdoches, Mexican Texas, declared their independence, starting the Fredonian Rebellion.

1861 – Medal of Honor: Public Resolution 82, containing a provision for a Navy Medal of Valor, was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln.

1913 – Arthur Wynne’s “word-cross”, the first crossword puzzle, was published in the New York World.

1919 – American anarchist Emma Goldman was deported to Russia.

1937 – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the world’s first full-length animated feature, premiered at the Carthay Circle Theatre.

1956 – LaVern Baker recorded the song “Jim Dandy.”

1960 – Elvis Presley was inducted into the Los Angeles Indian Tribal Council coinciding with the opening with his movie Flaming Star.

1968 – Apollo program: Apollo 8 was launched from the Kennedy Space Center, placing its crew on a lunar trajectory for the first visit to another celestial body by humans.

1968 – Crosby, Stills and Nash performed together in public for the first time.

1968 – Janis Joplin gave her first solo performance in Memphis, TN.

1969 – Diana Ross gave her last television performance as a member of the Supremes on The Ed Sullivan Show.

1970 – First flight of F-14 “Tomcat” multi-role combat aircraft.

1970 – Elvis Presley went to the White House to volunteer his services to U.S. President Nixon on fighting the nation’s drug problems. He gave Nixon a chrome-plated Colt .45 and Tricky Dick gave Elvis a Narcotics Bureau badge.

1972 – Martha Reeves & the Vandellas gave their farewell performance in Detroit, MI.

1976 – Barry Manilow on Broadway opened for a two-week run in New York.

1988 – A bomb exploded on board Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, killing 270. This is to date the deadliest air disaster to occur on British soil.

1993 – Shaquille O’Neal’s “I Know I Got Skillz” single was certified Gold by the RIAA.

1995 – The city of Bethlehem passed from Israeli to Palestinian control.

1996 – Tony Bennett was rushed to a hospital for an emergency operation for an erupted hernia. Bennett was just arriving at the White House for a holiday dinner with U.S. President and Mrs. Clinton when he fell ill.

2004 – Iraq War: A suicide bomber killed 22 at the forward operating base next to the main U.S. military airfield at Mosul, Iraq, the single deadliest suicide attack on American soldiers.

2020 – A great conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn occurred, with the two planets separated in the sky by 0.1 degrees. This was the closest conjunction between the two planets since 1623.


Tigers Win 1, Lady Tigers Win 2 in Tournament

On Thursday, the Tigers played Haynesville in the Castor Tournament and won, 82-40.
On Saturday, the Tigers played Ebarb in the tournament and lost, 47-58.

On Thursday, the Lady Tigers played Haynesville in the Castor Tournament and won, 62-40.
On Saturday, the Lady Tigers played Ebarb in the tournament and won, 52-44.

Please see schedules below.

Castor Boys Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 7:30 PMDownsvilleHomeWin78-17 
11/3/2022 6:30 PMWeston
(Dodson Tournament)
AwayWin64-34
11/4/2022 5:00 PMCalvin
(Dodson Tournament)
AwayLoss51-54
11/8/2022 7:00 PMFlorienAway
11/8/2022 7:00 PMClaiborne ChristianAwayLoss64-66
11/11/2022 5:30 PMPleasant Hill
(Ebarb Tournament)
AwayWin53-33
11/12/2022 12:15:00 AMStanley
(Ebarb Tournament)
AwayLoss52-55
11/15/2022 7:00 PMCalvinAwayLoss58-66
11/18/2022 6:30 PMClaiborne ChristianHomeWin61-53
11/21/2022 7:00 PMDodsonAwayCancelledCancelled
11/29/2022 7:00 PMStanleyHome
12/2/2022 7:30 PMGibsland-Coleman
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss44-75
12/6/2022 7:00 PMSalineAwayLoss41-44
12/9/2022 7:00 PMGlenbrookAwayWin82-58
12/13/2022 7:00 PMNegreetAway
12/13/2022 7:00 PMChoudrantHome
12/15/2022 7:30 PMHaynesville
(Castor Tournament)
AwayWin82-40
12/17/2022 1:15 PMEbarb
(Castor Tournament)
HomeLost47-58
12/20/2022Ouachita Christian Away
1/3/2023 7:00 PMDodsonHome
1/6/2023 7:15 PMDownsvilleAway
1/9/2023 7:00 PMHornbeckAway
1/13/2023 7:00 PMChoudrantHome
1/16/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
1/19/2023 7:00 PMRed River Away
1/24/2023 6:00 PMQuitmanHome
1/27/2023 7:00 PMDoylineAway
1/31/2023 7:00 PMWestonHome
2/2/2023 7:00 PMSalineHome
2/3/2023 6:00 PMQuitmanAway
2/7/2023 7:00 PMDoylineHome
2/9/2023 7:00 PMWestonAway
2/10/2023 7:00 PMWestonAway
2/13/2023 6:00 PMPlainviewHome
2/17/2023 7:00 PMCalvinHome

Castor Girls Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/1/2022 6:00 PMDownsvilleHomeWin68-25
11/3/2022 5:00 PMWeston
(Dodson Tournament)
AwayLoss79-87
11/8/2022 6:00 PMClaiborne ChristianAwayWin43-30
11/11/2022 7:00 PMEbarb
(Ebarb Tournament)
AwayLoss29-49
11/12/2022 1:30 PMPitkin
(Ebarb Tournament)
AwayLoss21-68
11/15/2022 5:00 PMCalvinAwayWin72-54
11/18/2022 6:00 PMClaiborne ChristianHomeWin53-49
11/21/2022 6:00 PMDodsonAwayCancelledCancelled
11/29/2022 6:00 PMStanleyHome
12/1/2022 7:30 PMGibsland-Coleman
(Gibsland-Coleman Tournament)
AwayLoss48-67
12/6/2022 6:00 PMSalineAwayWin51-22
12/9/2022 6:00 PMGlenbrookAwayWin68-27
12/13/2022 6:00 PMNegreetAway
12/15/2022 6:30 PMHaynesville
(Castor Tournament)
AwayWin62-40
12/17/2022 12:00 PMEbarb
(Castor Tournament)
AwayWin52-44
12/20/2022 6:00 PMOuachita ChristianAway
1/3/2023 6:00 PMDodsonHome
1/6/2023 6:00 PMDownsvilleAway
1/9/2023 5:00 PMHornbeckAway
1/13/2023 6:00 PMChoudrantHome
1/16/2023 6:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
1/19/2023 6:00 PMRed RiverAway
1/24/2023 6:00 PMQuitmanHome
1/27/2023 6:00 PMDoylineAway
1/31/2023 6:00 PMWestonHome
2/2/2023 6:00 PMSalineHome
2/3/2023 6:00 PMQuitmanAway
2/7/2023 6:00 PMDoylineHome
2/9/2023 6:00 PMWestonAway
2/10/2023 6:00 PMWestonAway

Gibsland Resident on ULM’s Dean’s List

The University of Louisiana Monroe recently announced the students on the President’s and Dean’s Lists for the Fall 2022 semester.

Eligibility to the President’s or Dean’s list requires full-time enrollment (minimum of 12 semester hours completed) and the lists are calculated based on G.P.A. hours and term G.P.A.  To get on the Dean’s List, an undergraduate student is required to earn at least a 3.5 grade point average.

Gibsland’s Trinitee Scott was among those whose hard work earned a spot on the Dean’s List.

Congratulations, Ms. Scott!!!

We, at the Bienville Parish Journal, want to honor all persons from Bienville Parish who have worked hard an earned distinction such as Dean’s List, President’s List, Graduates, etc.  If you know of someone who should be recognized, please email the Journal at BPJNewsLA@gmail.com.


Saline’s Dollar General Store Has Opened

By Brad Dison

After months of work, the Dollar General store in Saline opened at about 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 18, 2022.  Normal business hours will be from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.  A sign on the door reminded shoppers that the store will be open until 10:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve but will be closed on Christmas Day.  

I stopped by at about 6:00 p.m. on opening day and found several shoppers perusing the aisles and some checking out.  More and more customers were filing in as I took pictures for this article.  The store is approximately 10,770 square feet (approximately 8,000 square feet of shopping and the remainder for its storeroom).   


Redskins Win 2, Ladyskins Struggle

On Friday, the Redskins played Lakeside in the Minden Tournament and won, 71-49.
On Monday, the Redskins played North Webster and won, 63-15.

On Friday, the Ladyskins played Haughton in the Minden Tournament and lost, 29-59.
On Monday, the Ladyskins played North Webster and lost, 37-48.

Ringgold Boys Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/15/2022 7:00 PMRiver OaksHomeWin90-30
11/16/2022 6:30 PMNorth Webster
(Lakeside Tournamentaa)
AwayWin80-15
11/18/2022 6:30 PMLakeside
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayWin66-48
11/19/2022 4:30 PMMinden
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayWin66-54
11/22/2022 11:30 AMMagnolia School of Excellence
(Woodlawn – Shreveport Tournament)
AwayWin76-66
11/23/2022 2:00 PMGreen Oaks
(Woodlawn – Shreveport Tournament)
HomeLoss38-50
11/28/2022 7:00 PMEvangel ChristianHomeLoss24-51
11/29/2022 7:00 PMRiver OaksAwayPP
12/1/2022 6:15 PMArcadiaAwayLoss65-66
12/5/2022 7:00 PMLakesideHomeWin56-30
12/8/2022 7:00 PMCalvary BaptistAwayLoss53-62
12/12/2022 7:00 PMGibsland-ColemanAwayLoss54-80
12/13/2022 7:00 PMSalineAwayPP
12/14/2022 8:00 PMNorth Caddo
(Minden Tournament)
HomeLoss58-62
12/15/2022 5:20 PMHomer
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin81-59
12/16/2022 8:00 PMLakeside
(Minden Tournament)
AwayWin71-49
12/17/2022 5:20 PMHaughton
(Minden Tournament)
Away
12/19/2022 7:00 PMNorth WebsterAwayWin63-15
12/23/2022 7:00 PMRed RiverHome
12/28/2022 4:30 PMMansfield
(Airline Tournament)
Away
1/6/2023 7:00 PMPlain DealingAway
1/9/2023 7:00 PMHomerHome
1/10/2023 7:00 PMArcadiaAway
1/13/2023 7:00 PMGlenbrookHome
1/20/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleHome
1/23/2023 7:00 PMMagnolia School of ExcellenceAway
1/24/2023 7:00 PMPlain DealingHome
1/27/2023 7:00 PMHomerAway
1/31/2023 7:00 PMArcadiaHome
2/3/2023 7:00 PMGlenbrookAway
2/7/2023 7:00 PMHaynesvilleAway
2/10/2023 7:00 PMMagnolia School of ExcellenceHome
2/14/2023 6:00 PMJonesboro-HodgeHome

Ringgold Girls Basketball

Date/TimeOpponentHome/AwayWin/LossScore
11/15/2022 6:00:00 PMRiver OaksHomeLoss36-50
11/16/2022 5:00 PMLakeside
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayWin54-34
11/18/2022 5:00 PMMinden
(Lakeside Tournament)
AwayLoss19-55
11/28/2022 6:00:00 PMEvangel ChristianHomeWin42-16
11/29/2022 6:00:00 PMRiver OaksAwayPP
12/1/2022 5:00 PMArcadiaAwayLoss3-50
12/5/2022 6:00:00 PMLakesideHomeWin51-42
12/8/2022 6:00:00 PMCalvary BaptistAwayLoss18-44
12/12/2022 6:00:00 PMGibsland-ColemanAwayLoss16-71
12/13/2022 6:00:00 PMSalineAway
12/14/2022 6:40 PMMinden
(Minden Tournament)
AwayLoss25-59
12/16/2022 6:40 PMSimsboro
(Minden Tournament)
AwayLoss29-59
12/19/2022 6:00:00 PMNorth WebsterHomeLoss37-48
12/23/2022 6:00:00 PMRed RiverHome
1/6/2023 6:00:00 PMPlain DealingAway
1/9/2023 6:00:00 PMHomerHome
1/10/2023 6:00:00 PMArcadiaAway
1/13/2023 6:00:00 PMGlenbrookHome
1/20/2023HaynesvilleHome
1/24/2023 6:00:00 PMPlain DealingHome
1/27/2023 6:00:00 PMHomerAway
1/31/2023 6:00:00 PMArcadiaHome
2/3/2023 6:00:00 PMGlenbrookAway
2/7/2023 6:00:00 PMHaynesvilleAway

Remember This?: The Best Barber of Canonsburg

In 1910, Pietro and Lucia and their six children emigrated from a small town in Italy to Canonsburg, Pennsylvania where Pietro earned meager wages as a millhand.  Two years after their arrival, they added their seventh child, Ronald, to their ever-growing family which eventually totaled thirteen children.  Ronald was the seventh son of a seventh son and the first of the children to be born in America.  Ronald’s family spoke Italian at home and Ronald only began to learn English when he entered elementary school, although he had picked up a few words here and there. 

In 1922 or 23, sources vary on the exact year, Ronald began working in Steve Fragapane’s barbershop to earn extra money for the family.  At the barbershop, he built and tended to the fire in the fireplace and swept up hair clippings from the floor.  Ronald quickly learned that he could make more money if he were to become a barber himself, so he watched Steve and the other barbers closely.  He convinced the barbers to let him try his hand at taking a few snips here and there off of the customers.  Their confidence in Ronald grew quickly because he had a steady hand, a good eye, and he showed no outward appearance of nervousness, if it existed at all.  Ronald was always calm and cool.  Eventually, he began learning how to cut hair in all the popular styles and how to give a good, clean shave although, at his young age, he had not begun shaving himself.

Within 3 years, by the young age of 13, Ronald earned his own chair at Steve’s barbershop.  In 1926, Ronald’s father became unable to work due to a severe heart condition.  It became the responsibility of Ronald and his brothers to earn enough money for the family’s survival. 

Ronald never complained and often sang the popular tunes of the day while giving a shave or a haircut, much to the delight of his customers.  Within a year, Ronald had more customers than his single chair in Fragapane’s shop could accommodate.  At the young age of 14, when most children his age were busy being children, Ronald opened his own barbershop where he employed two helpers.  On weekdays, he worked after school until midnight.  He worked longer hours on the weekend.  Ronald’s ambition was to become the best barber of Canonsburg, and he was well on his way. 

It certainly seemed as if Ronald’s path in life was set.  In 1933, Ronald and some friends went to the Silver Slipper Ballroom in Cleveland, Ohio, to see Freddy Carlone and his orchestra perform.  During the show, Carlone invited people from the audience to sing with his band.  Ronald’s friends urged him onto the stage.  Most of the people from the audience who sang with Carlone’s orchestra had more faith in themselves than they had talent, except for Ronald.  Carlone was so impressed with Ronald’s singing, his casual movements while he sang, and his general coolness, that he offered him a job.  He made more money as a barber than Carlone had offered to pay, but, with the reassurance of his father that he could always return to barbering, he joined the band.   

The chance performance at the Silver Slipper Ballroom set into motion an unexpected career change for Ronald, a career which lasted the remainder of his life, a career in which he sold millions of records, acted in numerous Hollywood pictures, hosted numerous radio and television variety shows, and hosted yearly Christmas shows from 1948 until 1994.  Rather than being known as the best barber in Canonsburg, as he originally wanted, he became known as the best ex-barber in the world.   In 1955, Franklin Avenue, the street where Ronald was born and grew up, was renamed in his honor.  In the 1960s, Ronald became the highest-paid performer in the history of television to that date.  You may recognize some of his songs such as “Till the End of Time”, “Don’t Let the Stars Get in Your Eyes”, and “Catch a Falling Star.”  Nowadays, he is mostly associated with Christmas due to his recordings of Christmas songs.  In 1954, Ronald introduced a Christmas song in which he mentioned his home state.  He sang, “From Pennsylvania folks are traveling down to Dixie’s sunny shore, from Atlantic to Pacific gee the traffic is terrific.”  The song was “Home for the Holidays.”  Ronald’s full name was …Pierino Ronald “Perry” Como.

Merry Christmas!!!

Sources:
1.     Star-Gazette, November 27, 1955, p.44.
2.    Albuquerque Journal, December 13, 1980, p.19.
3.    Tyler Morning Telegraph, August 1, 1983, p.11.


Arrest Report

December 12, 2022

  • Nacole Pleasant – Monroe
    • Operating Vehicle with Suspended License; No License Issued

December 13, 2022

  • Blake Chaisson – Saline
    • Simple Criminal Damage to Property – Misdemeanor – 2 Counts
    • Simple Battery – Misdemeanor
  • Melissa Monger – Saline
    • Simple Battery – Misdemeanor
  • Cassalis Lard, Jr. – Castor
    • Armed Robbery – Felony
  • Demaine Riley – Monroe
    • Operating Vehicle with Suspended License; No License Issued
  • Willie Monroe – Arcadia
    • Operating Vehcile with Suspended License; No License Issued
    • D.W.I. – 2nd Offense (BAC .15 to .19) – Misdemeanor
    • Careless Operation
  • Marcus Lard, Jr. – Castor
    • Armed Robbery – Felony

December 14, 2022

  • Dashawn Coliston – Arcadia
    • Armed Robbery – Felony
  • Alisson Salgado – Fort Worth, Texas
    • Driver Must Be Licensed

December 16, 2022

  • Anthony Bellard – Arcadia
    • Failure to Appear Warrant – Felony
  • Jamaij Young – Shreveport
    • Driver Must Be Licensed

December 17, 2022

  • Andrenia Adams – Princeton
    • Operating Vehicle with Suspended License; Other Offenses
    • Failure to Appear Warrant – Misdemeanor