By Michelle Bates

Dog biting is becoming an issue in Arcadia, and the legal process by which aggressive dogs are handled has come up for discussion.

District 5 Councilman Timothy Williams brought up the issue in September’s monthly meeting, asking Chief of Police Ciera Murphy what could be done. While he didn’t elaborate on the specifics of the dog biting, Williams said he was concerned about dogs at large biting people.

“We’ve been having a lot of dog biting and some constituents were asking about the process regarding dogs not on a leash,” Williams said. “If a dog bites an individual, what’s the process after they contact the police?”

Murphy explained that if they can identify the dog’s owner, then the owner is cited. If a dog owner is cited, it is a $100 fine, she said.

“If the dog needs to be tested for rabies, we make the necessary arrangements for that,” she said. “We advise the individual to go to their doctor to make sure there’s no rabies, and if it’s an aggressive enough dog, we’ll take it into custody.”

While there is no designated animal control officer, Mayor O’Landis Millican said Arcadia does have a place to house dogs in custody on Jonesboro Road.

“Once the pens fill up, then we take them to Homer and let the vet decide what to do with them,” he said. “We feed and house them, and once it fills up, we take them to Homer and let them take care of it. Sometimes, if it’s a stray dog, we give the person time to claim ownership.”

District 2 Councilwoman Melanie Monroe said she walks in the morning and being approached by an unleashed dog is one of her worst fears.

“There are a lot of stray dogs around my house, and I wake up in the morning, and I’ve had a dog laying on my front porch,” she said.

“The only time we get involved is when we’re called about an aggressive dog,” Murphy said. “I have the same issue. I come out of my house in the morning and there’s a pack of dogs. And most people won’t take ownership of the dog, because they know it comes along with a citation.”

She said this is an issue that she will be investigating closer as the department receives many calls about stray or aggressive dogs.

Dear fellow Arcadians,

I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. As your councilman, I wanted to take a moment to share some exciting news and reaffirm our commitment to making Arcadia an even better place to live, work, and play. Positive changes are happening in our beloved city, and I am thrilled to share them with you.

1. Investing in Our Infrastructure:

Our city is embarking on a journey of infrastructure revitalization. We understand that well-maintained roads, bridges, and public facilities are essential for the growth and prosperity of our community. We are securing funding for several key projects that will enhance roads, public facilities such as all the parks, and improve the overall quality of life for our residents.

2. Environmental Sustainability:

Arcadia is embracing a cleaner and eye-catching initiatives to protect our environment and preserve our natural beauty. We are actively working on programs to reduce litter, increase green spaces, and promote renewable energy sources. Together, we can ensure that Arcadia remains a sustainable and eco-friendly place for generations to come.

3. Supporting Local Businesses:

Our local businesses are the backbone of our community, and we are committed to supporting their growth. We are working to streamline regulations and provide incentives to help entrepreneurs thrive. By fostering a strong business environment, we can create more jobs and stimulate economic development.

4. Community Engagement:

Your input is invaluable to us. We are expanding opportunities for community engagement through town hall meetings, online forums, committees, and surveys. Your feedback helps us shape policies and projects that reflect your needs and desires.

5. Public Safety and Community Policing:

The safety of our residents is a top priority. We are enhancing public safety measures and promoting community policing initiatives to build trust and strengthen the bond between law enforcement and our community.

6. Education and Youth Programs:

Our children are our future, and we are investing in their education and well-being. We are collaborating with schools and organizations to expand after-school programs, scholarships, and extracurricular activities. By empowering our youth, we ensure a bright future for Arcadia.

7. Cultural and Recreational Opportunities:

Arcadia is a city of rich culture and diverse interests. We are working to expand cultural and recreational opportunities for ALL residents, from art exhibitions and music festivals to parks and sports facilities. These initiatives will help foster a sense of unity and belonging in our community.

These are just a few examples of the positive changes happening in Arcadia. We are committed to a bright and prosperous future for our city, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve you as your councilman.

I encourage all of you to stay engaged, participate in community events, and share your ideas with us. Together, we can continue to make Arcadia a place we are proud to call home.

Thank you for your trust and support, and let’s look forward to the exciting journey ahead.

Sincerely,
Timothy Williams
Arcadia City Councilman

(UPDATE 9/20/2023):

DOTD advises motorists that US 80 in Ada, Bienville Parish has been REOPENED following a train derailment that occurred on September 1st.

One lane is closed near the derailment site but through traffic can now travel on US 80. Please be cautious of railroad crews and equipment that may still be accessing the area for continued clean up operations.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________

(UPDATE 9/6/2023 4:00 p.m.):

US 80 in Ada remains closed at this time to allow for the continued mobilization and clean-up efforts of the railroad company following a train derailment that occured on Friday, September 1, 2023.

The road closure is anticipated to remain in place for the remainder of the week and possibly into the week of September 11, 2023.

DOTD will issue another update when additional information becomes available.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Original notification 9/1/2023 7:30 p.m.):

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that, effective immediately, US 80 from Oscar Kilpatrick Road to Martin Road in Ada, Bienville Parish is closed due to a train derailment.

This road closure is necessary in order to allow the railroad company to mobilize equipment in order to begin clean-up operations.

Access to Oscar Kilpatrick Road and Martin Road will be maintained during the closure. At this time, there is no estimated time frame for reopening the roadway.

The train was not carrying hazardous material so no evacuations are necessary, though DOTD urges motorists to drive with caution through the area.

Restrictions/Permits: Total road closure at the specified location.

Alternate Route: Eastbound through traffic on US 80 will need to utilize Exit 61 (Gibsland).

Safety reminder:

DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.

Additional information:

Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and Twitter pages.

Contact Information:

Erin Buchanan
Public Information Officer
Shreveport-Bossier District
(318) 549-8402
erin.buchanan@la.gov

BOM is bringing financial literacy education to students and residents in several parishes in Louisiana.

Students at 12 schools and the surrounding community have free access to Banzai, an award-winning online program and content library that allows users to practice real-world finance from the safety of their home or classroom using any internet- enabled device. At a time when a solid foundation of practical financial knowledge is critical, these resources will make a huge impact on users.

Through the Banzai online courses, students try out managing a budget, saving for a goal, and dealing with unexpected financial pitfalls. Teachers are able to easily monitor and grade student progress remotely. Other resources, which include articles, calculators, and personalizable Coach sessions, explain everything from the basics of filing your taxes to how health insurance works. These resources are available at bofm.teachbanzai.com/wellness.

“Thanks to BOM, area students will now have access to a wide array of courses and resources designed to help prepare them for our increasingly complex world,” says Morgan Vandagriff, co- founder of Banzai. “We wouldn’t be able to provide these tools without their support.”

BOM is working with Banzai to build financial literacy in the community by investing time, money, industry experience, and a variety of bank resources. Now, they’re taking their commitment to education a step further. Through their help, students have access to Banzai learning tools, virtual or in-classroom presentations from a BOM expert, and even class visits to a branch to see it all in person.

Banzai resources are used by over 100,000 teachers across the U.S. These educational tools align with Louisiana’s state curriculum requirements, making the program a fun way for students to gain vital skills and an ideal way for anyone in the community to increase their financial literacy. After finishing the Banzai courses, users will know how to track where their money is and what it’s for, recognize financial trade-offs, and plan for a financially sound future.

Teachers interested in using Banzai can visit bofm.teachbanzai.com or call 888-8-BANZAI.

For more information about Banzai visit banzai.org
For more information about BOM visit bofm.com

There’s something about the deer we hunt. They’re sharper than we are and the blink of an eye or a slap at a mosquito may be all it takes to cause a deer to turn tail and run. As a result, it’s more to the hunter’s advantage to hunt from elevated positions as deer usually are looking for danger at eye level or lower. Sitting 16 feet up a tree gives the hunter an advantage and when it comes to waylaying a wily buck, we need all the advantages we can get.

When I started deer hunting years ago, there were no tree stands on the market. If you hunted from an elevated position, it meant gathering up a bunch of two-by-fours, hammer, nails and saw to construct something that would keep you above a deer’s line of vision.

Some of the first ones I constructed were not only weird looking contraptions, they were also unsafe. Switching your Red Man from one jaw to the other was often all that was needed to flip you out and send you to the ground.

Years later as climbing stands and ladder stands came on the market, these proved safer than the man-made contraptions. Because they were so heavily used, news began filtering in of accidents resulting in falling out of stands.

Dr. Bobby Dale, a life-long hunter, is also an emergency room physician who practices medicine in his hometown of Tupelo, Mississippi. Visiting with Dr. Dale at the annual conference of the Southeastern Outdoor Press Association in Johnson City, TN several years ago, we had occasion to talk about what is more likely to injure hunters while hunting. Dale noted that contrary to what many believe, it’s not the older and more fragile hunter who is more apt to be injured; it’s the strong, virile, younger guy.

“From what I’ve observed from patients I have seen in the ER where I practice, it’s the younger one more prone to suffer serious injuries while hunting. This is particularly true concerning falls from elevated deer stands. In fact,” Dale said, “I recently read a report that revealed the majority of bow hunters who fall from tree stands are in their 20s and 30s. Also, about 10% of these injuries are alcohol-related.

“While it is true that guys in their 50s and 60s and older have bones that are more easily broken, I don’t see nearly as many injuries from falling from a stand from this older group. It’s just a fact that the older guy is more cautious,” he added.

Dr. Dale noted that a fall, even one from just a few feet, can result in serious injury. Obviously, the further you fall, the more serious injuries become, he said.

“I’ve seen victims who fell from stands come to the ER with everything from closed head injuries, bleeding on the brain, spinal fractures with paralysis, broken arms, legs and ribs, collapsed lungs, ruptured spleens in addition to profuse external bleeding,” Dale said.

While mishaps using home-made deer stands are more likely to result in serious injuries, manufactured stands can also cause falls if not used properly.

“Manufactured stands have to meet a safety code and the vast majority of these stands are safe when properly used. However, they still have to be secured to the tree in the proper manner to be completely safe. Climbing stands are quite safe but when care is not taken in using them, they can result in twisting or slipping when not correctly secured to the tree. The result can be disastrous,” he added.

With deer season rapidly approaching – archery season begins October 1 – make sure your tree stands are in top notch working order and that you practice all the safety rules having to do with elevated deer stands. It takes only one moment of lapse in judgement or one misstep to make looking for a big buck the least of your concerns.

Bug out bag – go bag -survival bag – I’ve heard several different terms for a pre-packed bag that one might keep handy in the event they need to up and leave their current situation in a hurry. If you ask the most hard-core prepper, all the different labels have specific meanings, but I’m not that guy – I tend to use all the terms interchangeably, which is probably wrong, but unless we’re having the “clip vs magazine” debate, I try not to get wrapped around the axel about vernacular.

So, what is a “bug out bag?” Simply put, it’s a satchel of some kind that is ready to go at a moment’s notice. I keep one of these kits with me most of the time, and I would encourage others to do the same. They need not be extravagant, although you can certainly sink a lot of money into them. I’ve found over the years that it’s actually pretty easy to rack up a hefty tab when trying to put one of these kits together, even though spending a fortune isn’t necessarily necessary. See what I did there?

Anyway, let’s talk bag packing specifics.

First, let’s discuss the bag itself. My personal recommendation is that you don’t skimp on this item. Invest in a quality bag. Buy once cry once. This thing needs to be sturdy. It’s likely going to get tossed around a lot even if you never use it in an emergency. So, it can’t be a wimpy thing. It also needs to be comfortable to carry because you might be toting this thing a long way. Having your back and shoulders on fire within the first mile of an emergency trek is not good. Contrary to popular belief, size isn’t everything. You don’t have to have the biggest pack, as long as it’ll perform when you need it most.

Although the bag itself is a highly important part of the kit, you should buy it last. Buy everything you need / want to go in the bag first and pile it all up on your wife’s dining table. Look at the size of the pile, marvel at your survival prowess for a moment, and then go buy a bag sized for the contents you selected. Otherwise, you’ll end up overfilling whatever bag you purchase, causing it to resemble a Sumo wrestler in skinny jeans. If you over-stuff the bag, then it won’t be functional.

Some of the items in your bag will, and should, be situationally dependent. Whatever environment you’re in, or that you’re heading into, will determine some of your needs. Urban environment or wilderness? Desert or mountains? Hot climate or cold? Pack your bag accordingly and change it up when circumstances dictate new necessities. The less you know about where you’re going, or where you might end up, the more options you need to prepare for.

When I pack a bug out bag, I pack a bag I can live out of for 48 hours. Professional preppers would tell me that means I’ll die in the 49 th hour, but I don’t usually traverse very far outside a known area. I’m not suggesting you follow my example – it’s just what I choose to do. That said, let’s discuss some items that are necessary, regardless of geographical location, and see what we can… unpack. Oh, how I love a good pun.

1.) Water. Water is heavy. You likely can’t carry much of it over any long distance but without it, you’ll die, like so fast. I generally pack two, 20oz bottles of water. It’s not “enough,” but I could survive off that for two days if I had to. A water filtration device is a good option, especially if you might be away from civilization for a long time, or if you need to hydrate a fellow “bugger outer.” A quality, water filtration straw would be an invaluable piece of kit if you’re near any fresh water source.

2.) Fire. No matter where you are on planet earth, fire and the ability to make fire is crucial for survival. Fire offers warmth, light, and will help you dry out wet clothing. Fire allows you to sterilize things, including water, and allows you to signal other people who might be trying to find you. I recommend having no less than three fire making devices in your bag, and at least two of them need to be waterproof.

3.) Light. I believe in the old adage that “two is one and one is none – but three is better.” When it comes to illuminating devices, you should have multiple. Lights are another thing you shouldn’t buy cheaply. Invest in at least one quality flashlight – bright but not big. A small keychain light could also be useful, as you won’t always need a lot of illumination. Consider making one of your lights a headlamp because it will allow you to work hands-free. A tinted light that won’t ruin your night vision (red or green) would be helpful in certain applications too. Having extra batteries for any battery powered device in your pack is just plain smart. The trade off here is that batteries get heavier the bigger they get. Consider carrying devices that accept smaller batteries, and perhaps use devices that all take the same size batteries. Continuity can make things easier.

4.) A jacket – preferably one that’s hooded and water repellent. Because you might get rained on, duh. A survival poncho or two wouldn’t hurt either. They’re super light, compact, and can also work as a makeshift, temporary shelter if you opt not to pack a whole tarp.

5.) A knife. Nay, two knives – a big hearty one and a small one. The big one is for big jobs like hacking, chopping, and digging – the small one is for more tedious tasks. The role of a quality knife in any survival situation cannot be overstated.

6.) Medical gear! A trauma kit is an absolute must have!

You should consider food items too – particularly stuff that has very high caloric content and that will stay fresh for months at a time – until you remember to go through your bag and rotate the inventory. Wireless battery packs for charging devices like cell phones and GPS units can be game changers. Just don’t forget a charging cable or the battery pack will be worthless. Some heavy-duty twine or 550 cord could prove helpful in an emergency and won’t add much weight to the kit. Cash? Sure, why not? That stuff could come in handy assuming society hasn’t collapsed. A spare magazine, OR TWO for your everyday carry pistol, which should already be on your person, not in your bag – or if you intend to bug out with a rifle because the commies are taking over, some extra ammo for that ol’ girl wouldn’t hurt either. Lastly, it probably wouldn’t hurt to have an extra pair of socks and plenty of band aids. Blisters are real, yo.

Look, I’m not a “survivalist” in the truest sense of the word, but I do have a good understanding of what the human body needs to survive. When packing your bag, pack for conditions that you’re most likely to encounter and make additions using common sense. Just be sure to leave empty space in your pack should you find something along your way that you need to carry with you. Ounces equal pounds and pounds equal pain. Treading the fine line between necessity and overkill can be tough. I’m still figuring it out myself. I challenge you to start somewhere, and if nothing else be a little more prepared tomorrow than you are today. Until next week…

Avoid what you can. Defeat what you can’t.

-Ryan

Please submit your questions to Ryan via email at Ryan@9and1tactical.com

(Ryan Barnette is not a licensed attorney and no information provided in “Slicing the Pie” or any other publication authored by Ryan Barnette should be construed, in any way, as official, legal advice.)

We are now about a month into the new school year, which means things are in full swing around my house. Between daily homework, cheerleading, football games, homecomings, dances and festivals, there is not time for much else right now.  

I attended a football game last week, only to watch my oldest cheer, because I know nothing about football. It can be overwhelming with all the people, the noise, trying to watch what is going on plus keep up with the younger two, who cannot sit still for 5 minutes.  

I had a guy I know come up to me as I was following them around and make the comment, “You never sit down, do you?” Nope, no I do not.  

At every game, you can find young kids playing football, digging in the dirt beside the bleachers, making their way to the concession stand or groups of teenagers walking around staring at their phones.

Well as I was following my two around, I heard a little boy holler, “MOM!” 

Even though I knew my two were right within my eyesight, it was a natural reaction to spin my head around. It took seconds for me to realize it wasn’t one of mine, but as I looked around, I noticed about ten other women who were within earshot also quickly turned their heads to look in the direction of the little boy.  

I think it would be a fair assessment to say all these women are probably also mothers.  

But none of these moms were HIS mom and the little boy began panicking. I walked towards him along with a handful of the other mothers who heard him call out. I reached him first since I was already walking close by. He told me he couldn’t find his mom and asked if I knew her. He told me her name and it didn’t sound familiar, but luckily two of the other mothers who walked up, did know her. They asked if I could stay with him, while they walked around to try and find her. 

Of course, I stayed. He calmed down a little bit but was still upset. My motherly instincts kicked in and I tried my best to reassure him that the other two moms would find her.  

About five minutes later, she walked up followed by the two others who said they knew her. She had briefly walked away because her other son happened to be on the field playing in the game and was injured. So, in a frenzy she ran onto the field to make sure he was okay.  

I could tell she was stressed and worried. I felt for her and was completely sympathetic to her motherhood journey.  

Having multiple children involved in multiple things – it can be hard to keep up and you constantly feel as if you are getting pulled into 5,000 different directions at once. Even for mothers of only one child, trying to find a balance between motherhood, work and still having a personal life. It is not for the faint of heart.  

The mother hugged her son and thanked the three of us who helped him.  

I walked away grateful that it turned out well and also very appreciative of this community of moms. Even though we all did not know each other, and this was not our child – we are still moms. I feel as though it is natural to “mother,” especially in these types of situations when an unknown child is clearly distressed. It did not matter that he did not belong to me.

Sometimes I not only mother my own children, but I mother my sister’s kids, my neighbors’ kids, the lost kid and sometimes I even try to “mother” my own mother. (That usually does not end very well.) 

But sometimes we must help each other out. I surely hope that if my kid ever became separated from me, a fellow mom would come to the rescue.  

It most definitely takes a community to raise them, and we have to stick together.  

Stick around for next week’s column titled, “Mothering my own Mother.”

(Paige Nash is a wife, mother of three, digital journalist for the Webster Parish Journal and publisher for the Bienville and Claiborne Parish Journal.)

Everyone has a personal wonderland. When my brother visits a hardware store, a garden center, or a tackle shop he has hit peak existence as those places are his wonderland. When my wife is in an antique store it’s her little slice of heaven. Years ago, my mother loved art galleries and art supply stores. My friend Anthony’s wonderland is Disneyland (though that seems like cheating). For me it’s restaurant trade shows, and restaurant supply showrooms and stores.

A few weeks ago, I was in New Orleans and dropped by the Restaurant Depot to pick up a couple of items we needed at the bakery. For those who aren’t familiar with Restaurant Depot, just think Sam’s Club or Costco with wholesale prices— equipment, small wares, supplies, and a lot of food— exclusively for restaurateurs. My supposed 15 minute visit to shop for a couple of items turned into a two-hour browsing and purchasing session. Welcome to my Wonderland.

When I was a little kid, I could spend an hour on the small toy aisle in the Ben Franklin Five and Dime store. It probably consisted of three shelves and 12 linear feet. That was my five-year-old wonderland. Any type of restaurant supply store that has a showroom is going to grab my attention for several hours these days, and the National Restaurant Association trade show that I attend every year in Chicago captures my attention and sparks my imagination for several days.

I got to the Restaurant Depot that morning just after it opened and dozens of small independent restaurant operators from across the city were scampering through the aisles buying groceries and small wares to get them through the Sunday brunch/lunch service. It took me back to the early days when I was in the kitchen full time, and we were a struggling upstart restaurant doing everything we could to survive. It was 1987 and I was working 90 hours a week, living in a one-room apartment above a garage, paying myself $250.00 a week and loving every minute of it. Those are still some of the fondest days of my career.

As I passed the independents who were shopping for that day’s supplies it took me back to simpler times. Don’t get me wrong. I love where I am today. The volume we do wouldn’t allow anyone to go to the grocery store with any frequency anymore, and I’m grateful for that. Very grateful. But I also understand that— in those early days— I was the guy walking around the grocery store picking up supplemental products to make it through lunch to get to this point. I had to be that guy. Truthfully, I loved being that guy.

There’s joy in building a business and growing it from an idea, concept, simple thought, or a notion sketched on a cocktail napkin. The process of turning those thoughts and ideas into an actual brick-and-mortar concepts is my dream job. It’s what I have always done. It’s what I still do. I have a drawer full of notebooks and cocktail napkins with current, former, and future restaurants mapped out on them. It’s the most satisfying and gratifying part of my job.

Walking the aisles of the Restaurant Depot I wanted to pull every one of those restaurateurs aside— many of whom looked frustrated and stressed— and tell them, “These are the ‘good ‘ol days.’ You may not be able to see it now, but this was your dream and it’s come true. This is what you fought for. This what you saved money to do. You are doing it. You are living it. Trust me, one day you’re going to look back on the times you were just getting started— and were having to go to the store to buy your groceries for the day because you didn’t have enough money in the bank to put together a large order with one of the mainline suppliers— and remember them fondly. Just hang in there. It’s tough, but if it was easy everyone would do it, and everyone can’t do it. It’s the restaurant business. We have one of the highest mortality rates of all businesses. 80% of all independent restaurants close after the third year. But you’re still here. You’re doing it. Just keep following your passion. Do what it takes— whatever it takes— to make your restaurant successful. Give it all you’ve got. Change when you need to change, never stand still, and follow your passion because success always follows passion. Get a little bit better every day, and when you take a few steps backward just wake up the next day and keep pressing forward. Don’t worry about the criticism. You’ll never be criticized by someone doing more than you. You’ll only be criticized by someone doing less. Keep moving ever onward.”

But I didn’t pull anyone aside and say that. I wanted to, but I didn’t, because that would be weird and creepy, and most young restaurateurs can’t see the forest for the trees at this stage anyway. It’s not until one comes out on the other side of those early days that they realize how blessed they were to be able to start something from scratch and build it into a viable business that is creating jobs and opportunities for others.

It’s not brain surgery. I’ve learned if you put your nose to the grindstone, work hard, and dedicate yourself to a mission of quality and consistency great things happen. Will there be problems? Definitely. Almost daily. But business is problems. A successful business is problems well handled. If you can’t handle problems, it’s time to get out of business.

It’s not always a success. I’ve had failures. Plenty of them. But I’ve learned from every one of them. The expensive mistakes are the ones I’ve learned most from and have rarely repeated. I don’t consider myself a winner. I’m just a loser who’s never given up. Occasionally, you hit it on something and if you can keep a positive cashflow then everything works out and the world spins in greased grooves for a while.

If you are a restaurateur early in your career, keep your head down and keep moving forward. Treat people well and always try to do the right thing in every situation, whether it be life or business. Prioritize your spiritual self and your family before your business, but when it’s needed, hunker down, and do what it takes to make it through the challenging times. You’ve got this. And if you see me, wide-eyed and smiling while walking around a restaurant show, a wholesale warehouse. or a showroom, pull me aside. Let’s talk shop. You’ll be able to teach me something, too. After 42 years in this business, I’m learning new things every day.

Onward.

Grilled and Chilled Asparagus with Dill Mayonnaise

For the asparagus

2 lbs Asparagus, fresh

3 Tbl  Olive oil

2 tsp Kosher Salt

1 tsp Black Pepper, freshly ground

Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt and pepper. Arrange the asparagus on a medium-heat grill and cook for 5-7 minutes. Turn the asparagus often to prevent burning.

Remove from the grill and cool.

Note: Asparagus can be baked in an oven set to “broil.” Place on a cookie sheet, roll in olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and broil for five minutes or until al dente.

Dill Mayonnaise

 2 Egg Yolks

1 tsp Salt

1 /2 tsp Dijon Mustard

1 1 /2 tsp Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed

1 tsp White Vinegar

1 cup Canola Oil

1/4 cup Fresh Dill, chopped

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, salt, and mustard. When mixture becomes light in color, add lemon juice. Blend.

Drizzle oil slowly into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly. After adding half of the oil, stir in vinegar. Continue whisking and add remaining oil. Add fresh dill.

The mayonnaise may be held refrigerated for one week.

To serve, arrange the chilled asparagus on a serving platter. Serve the mayonnaise on the side for dipping.

Yield:

6-8 servings

(Robert St. John is a chef, restaurateur and published cookbook author who lives in Hattiesburg, Miss.)

1789 – The U.S. Congress authorized the office of Postmaster General.

1792 – The French Republic was proclaimed.

1862 – U.S. President Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. It stated that all slaves held within rebel states would be free as of January 1, 1863.

1903 – Italo Marchiony was granted a patent for the ice cream cone.

1914 – Three British cruisers were sunk by one German submarine in the North Sea. 1,400 British sailors were killed. This event alerted the British to the effectiveness of the submarine.

1927 – In Chicago, IL, Gene Tunney successfully defended his heavyweight boxing title against Jack Dempsey in the famous “long-count” fight.

1949 – The Soviet Union exploded its first atomic bomb successfully.

1955 – Commercial television began in Great Britain. The rules said that only six minutes of ads were allowed each hour and there was no Sunday morning TV permitted.

1961 – U.S. President John F. Kennedy signed a congressional act that established the Peace Corps.

1964 – “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” debuted on NBC-TV.

1966 – The U.S. lunar probe Surveyor 2 crashed into the moon.

1969 – Willie Mays hit his 600th career home run.

1980 – A border conflict between Iran and Iraq developed into a full-scale war.

1986 – U.S. President Ronald Reagan addressed the U.N. General Assembly and voiced a new hope for arms control. He also criticized the Soviet Union for arresting U.S. journalist Nicholas Daniloff.

1988 – Canada’s government apologized for the internment of Japanese-Canadian’s during World War II. They also promised compensation.

1990 – Saudi Arabia expelled most of the Yememin and Jordanian envoys in Riyadh. The Saudi accusations were unspecific.

1991 – An article in the London newspaper “The Mail” revealed that John Cairncross admitted to being the “fifth man” in the Soviet Union’s British spy ring.

1992 – The U.N. General Assembly expelled Yugoslavia for its role in the war between Bosnia and Herzegovina.

1994 – The U.S. upgraded its military control in Haiti.

1998 – The U.S. and Russia signed two agreements. One was to privatize Russia’s nuclear program and the other was to stop plutonium stockpiles and nuclear scientists from leaving the country.

1998 – U.S. President Clinton addressed the United Nations and told world leaders to “end all nuclear tests for all time”. He then sent the long-delayed global test-ban treaty to the U.S. Senate.

1998 – Keely Smith received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

2023 – Apple’s iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus were released.

Please send all non-profit calendar events to bpjnewsla@gmail.com

September 22 (10 a.m.)

Faulk Auction Company – Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting

1968 N. Railroad Ave in Arcadia

September 22

Ringgold High School Homecoming vs. Plain Dealing High School

September 23

38th Annual Slabtown Fall Festival

September 24 (3 p.m.)

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Presents Youth Explosion

September 25 (6 p.m.)

Political Forum – Arcadia Events Center

September 28 (7 – 10 a.m.)

Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast

September 28 (6 p.m.)

Arcadia High School’s Literacy Night

September 30 (8:30 a.m.)

Crawford Elementary Eagle Invitational (Grades K – 6) – Bonnie and Clyde Trade Days and RV Park

October 3 (6 – 8 p.m.)

Arcadia Police Department’s National Night Out 2023 Block Party 

North Railroad Avenue in Arcadia

October 18 (6 – 8 p.m.)

Church Community Fall Festival – Arcadia Events Center

October 21 (8 a.m. – 2 p.m.)

CASA’s 13th Annual Car Show – 1952 N. Railroad Ave. in Arcadia

Notice of Death – September 21, 2023

Cora Edwards Powell

Jamestown, La.

Nov. 04, 1941 – Sept. 17, 2023

Graveside services: 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023, Providence Cemetery in Ringgold, La. 

Philip Hudgins Kitchens

Minden, La. 

March 16, 1945 – Sept. 7, 2023

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Minden, La.

Etta “Jo” New McCollough

July 5, 1937 – Sept. 16, 2023

Minden, La/Athens, La

Graveside Service: 1 p.m. Sunday, October 1, 2023, Mt. Mariah Church and Cemetery, 2 miles North of Arcadia along Highway 9

Bienville Parish Journal publishes paid complete obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $80. Contact your funeral provider or bpjnewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Above death notices are free of charge.)

By Bonnie Culverhouse

Two women – one local and one from Bienville Parish – had difficulty keeping their stories straight, when stopped by Minden Police last week.

Malindee Ann Clark, 38, of the 100 block of Christine Dr., Minden, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and two active bench warrants from city court.

Twila Jaimelene Freeman, 43, of Castor, La., was arrested by MPD for possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and as a fugitive from Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Police Chief Jared McIver said the only thing the women could agree upon was that neither owned the drugs located in the vehicle.

“Around 3 a.m. Wednesday, Off. Cadyn O’Connor, Ofc. Ben Sparks and Sgt. Reece Tewell were part of a traffic stop at Chandler Street and Lewisville Road on a Dodge pick-up truck that was driving with modified
exhaust and an inoperable brake light,” McIver said. “Neither person had identification, however, they did give officers their correct names and dates of birth. Clark was driving and gave the officers registration and insurance for the vehicles.”

It was when officers questioned the women about their travel itineraries that the stories became skewed, he said.

“Clark said she picked up Freeman from her residence and they were headed to take some medication to Clark’s son,” said the chief. “Both were nervous and struggling to tell their itinerary without the support of the other.”

Off. O’Connor and Ofc. Sparks reportedly continued to question the occupants, while dispatch checked for valid identification and any active warrants on the pair.

“They told the officers there was nothing illegal inside the vehicle, and at that point the officers asked them to step out of the vehicle and separated them,” McIver said. “Further questioning provided conflicting answers.

Freeman stated she had been at Clark’s house and contacted her boyfriend to pick her up from Clark’s residence. When differences in her story were pointed out, she continued to change the story.”

Dispatch reportedly confirmed active warrants on both subjects.

“An inventory of the vehicle turned up suspected methamphetamine (.7 grams) and a scale used to weigh narcotics,” McIver said. “Both subjects were questioned separately and neither claimed possession of any
narcotics or paraphernalia.”

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

By Michelle Bates

Over the summer, Bienville Parish high school students learned skills that would last them a lifetime through the Jumpstart Program.

Melanie Colvin, Arcadia High School assistant principal, updated the Bienville Parish School Board on the program, of roughly $300,000 to offer students various vocational or academic opportunities.

“When we actually got approval for the grant, we received approval through 2026,” she said, “to do six different programs last summer, and it grow.”

Along with Eric Carter, who helped coordinate bus transportation, Jarvis Osborne, who helped coordinate payroll, and Jacqueline Sampson and Timothy Williams, Colvin said the summer was a success.

Two Bienville Parish teachers, including Nakisha Young of Ringgold High School and Stephanie Young from Arcadia High School, held one program at AHS – the Adobe Photoshop Certification Program.

“All the students passed that test and gained that certification,” she said. “It will lead to credentials they can use in the graphic design industry.”

Also partnered with Pafford Ambulance Services, students were given the opportunity to become certified EMR. Twenty-five students were in that program, and of the 25, 22 passed the state board certification, which means they are fully certified EMR technicians. All 25 students earned their CPR credentials, she said.

“The students got to play on the Pafford helicopter and were allowed to ride along with personnel in the ambulances,” she said. “They had to do shift work, and they wanted to do more.”

Gavin Hall was the certified instructor with Louisiana, and Blake Taylor assisted with instruction.

They also partnered with Northwest Technical College for the welding program, with some obtaining certification above the normal certifications. They are all certified in workplace safety, on how to use power tools, create their resume, and complete a job interview. Some students earned their Level I and Level II certifications.

Zyon Bell was the only female to participate in the welding program, and she will be featured on a billboard that will go up soon on Interstate 20.

Colvin said one of the most important certifications came with the certified clinical medical assistant, which offers a high-paying wage.

“In this area, starting wages are at $17 per hour,” she said, adding they partnered with Workforce, Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College and Minden Medical Center. She went on to say that 28 students from around the community participated and took the certification exam. Of those 28, only eight passed the exam, and four were from the Jumpstart Program. Of those four, three were from Bienville Parish: Angelica Blake of Arcadia High School, Kenajah Robinson of Gibsland-Coleman High School and Krista Young of Castor High School.

For those who did not pass the exam, a two-day refresher course will be offered and they will be able to test again.

Another program offered was instrumentation, which is a lucrative program. However, it’s difficult for high school students to complete their certification. Through Jumpstart, several young men were given the opportunity to start and finish their Level I certification. This course taught students how to read gauges in the oil and gas industry. It is a very high-wage job, and it is in high demand. All students in this course were from Castor High School.

“It takes a long time to complete, and with Jumpstart, it allows them to complete course quicker,” Colvin said.

The last course offered over the summer was the heavy equipment operator course. Students earned their Level I certification in logistics and earth moving. They partnered with the Louisiana Army National Guard and completed all their work at Camp Minden. In this program, students earned a stipend of $1,875 plus bonuses; tuition and materials, and transportation was paid for through the Jumpstart program.

Colvin thanked all for their help, including all the bus drivers, Crawford Elementary Principal Edwin Mason for use of classrooms, and Kathy Satcher and Chekelah Weaver for monitoring the students who were at NWLTCC.

Daniel W. Newell, District Attorney for the Second Judicial District in and for the Parish of Bienville, makes the following announcement relative to disposition of cases in Bienville Parish on the dates indicated:

08-15-23

Shormarkuez Fielding of Arcadia, LA—Pled guilty to Simple Burglary of an Inhabited Dwelling. He was sentenced to 3 years hard labor, which was suspended. He was placed on 3 years supervised probation.

Joshua Ray Boykin of Heflin, LA—Pled guilty to Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling. He was sentenced to 4 years hard labor.

Jeffery Allen McCoy of Jamestown, LA—Pled guilty to Illegal Possession of Stolen Things Over $1,000. He was sentenced to 2 years of hard labor, which was suspended. He was placed on 2 years supervised probation. He also pled guilty to Contributing to the Delinquency of Juveniles. He was sentenced to 6 months. These charges will run concurrently.

Adrian Arekel Walker of Jackson, MS—Pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule I CDS-Marijuana. He was sentenced to 1 year hard labor, which was suspended. He was placed on 1 year unsupervised probation.

Phillip Page of Bienville, LA—Pled guilty to Aggravated Second Degree Battery. He was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor, with all but 7 years suspended. He will be placed on 5 years supervised probation once he is released. He pled guilty to False Imprisonment. He was sentenced to 6 months in parish jail. He pled guilty to Resisting an Officer by Force or Violence. He was sentenced to 3 years of hard labor. He was ordered to pay Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office $1,000 in restitution for damages to patrol unit. These charges will run concurrently.

08-30-23

Alandre D. Brooks of Ringgold, LA—Pled guilty to Aggravated Flight From an Officer. He was sentenced to 5 years of hard labor, which was suspended. He was placed on 3 years supervised probation and ordered to pay fines and costs to the Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Matthew Christopher Hashieder of Heflin, LA—Pled guilty to Possession of Schedule II CDS-Methamphetamine. He was sentenced to 2 years of hard labor, which was suspended. He was placed on 2 years supervised probation and ordered to pay fines and costs to the Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Melvetra Henry of Ringgold, LA—Pled guilty to Aggravated Flight from an Officer. She was sentenced to 1 year of hard labor, which was suspended. She was placed on 1 year supervised probation and required to pay fines and costs to the Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Dewayne Alan Moore of Ringgold, LA—Pled guilty to Aggravated Flight from an Officer. He was sentenced to 3 years of hard labor, which was suspended. He was placed on 2 years supervised probation. He also pled guilty to Possession of Schedule I CDS-Marijuana (less than 14 grams).

Hannah Marie Ward of Castor, LA—Pled guilty to Second Degree Battery. She was sentenced to 8 years of hard labor, all but 3 years was suspended. She also pled guilty to Simple Kidnapping. She was sentenced to 3 years of hard labor. These sentences will run concurrently. She will be placed on 5 years supervised
probation when she is released.

Broderick D. White of Arcadia, LA—Pled guilty to Domestic Abuse Battery. He was sentenced to 6 months in the parish jail, which was suspended. He was placed on 2 years supervised probation.

Darren C. Wood of Coushatta, LA—Pled guilty to Vehicular Negligent Injuring. He was sentenced to 6 months in the parish jail, which was suspended. He also pled guilty to DWI-First Offense. He was sentenced to 6 months in the parish jail, which was suspended. He also pled guilty to careless operation. He will be placed on 2 years supervised probation and required to pay fines and costs to the Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office.

DOTD advises motorists that these repairs are complete and this bridge has been REOPENED. We appreciate your patience while this work was underway.
__________________________________________________________________________________________

Original post:

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that beginning on Monday, September 11, 2023, the LA 155 bridge over Brush Creek near Friendship in Bienville Parish will be closed for necessary repair.

This closure is scheduled to last approximately 14 days.

This bridge is located approximately 3.5 miles north of the Village of Friendship/LA 4 (see included map).

Restrictions/Permits: Total road closure at the specified location. All vehicles will need to detour.

Alternate Route: Detour signage will be in place.

This work will be performed WEATHER PERMITTING.

Safety reminder:

DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.

Additional information:

Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and Twitter pages.

Contact Information:

Erin Buchanan
Public Information Officer
Shreveport-Bossier District
(318) 549-8402
erin.buchanan@la.gov

Pineville, Louisiana –  In support of a widespread call for unity within the House Republican Delegation, State Representative Mike Johnson sent a letter addressed to colleagues and candidates for state representative, emphasizing the critical need for strong, reform-minded leadership to propel Louisiana toward a brighter future. He laid out a vision for unity in selecting a Republican candidate for Speaker of the House.

As Louisiana stands on the brink of transformative change, it is important to have a unified Republican Party in the House to effectively pass a bold agenda that will benefit the state and its citizens. His message made it unequivocally clear that he is not a candidate for Speaker of the House, nor does he endorse any specific candidate in the running.

In launching this project, the primary objective is to ensure that the process of selecting a Republican candidate for Speaker remains transparent and undivided.

To safeguard this process from outside interference, Representative Johnson pledged to support only the Republican candidate who secures the support of the caucus, regardless of who they are.

He now calls upon all Republicans to do the same, emphasizing that unity is essential for the prosperity of the chamber and the state. Representative Johnson encouraged fellow Republicans to join him in preserving the integrity of the selection process.

Johnson highlighted the immense potential for positive change in Louisiana, with the possibility of a Republican governor and super-majorities in both chambers, making it clear that the stakes are too high to squander this opportunity.

In support of a widespread call for unity and reform, Mike Johnson is ready to build a coalition that will set the tone for a more prosperous future for the state

This Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili is a soup pot of heaven! I used precooked fajita meat to keep this super easy and wanted to just face plant into the bowl! Make this pronto! Soup season is HERE, and no one is happier than I am about it!

Ingredients:
– 16 ounce package precooked chicken fajita meat, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter-  1 yellow onion, diced
– 1/4 – 1/3 cup sliced jalapenos, diced
– 3 tablespoons garlic
– 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
– 1/2 tablespoon oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 1/2 cups sour cream
– 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese
– 2 cups frozen white corn
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 3 tablespoons water
– Cojita cheese
– For serving: bacon crumbles, tortilla strips, sliced avocado

Directions
In a large soup pot heat olive oil and butter. Add onion and jalapeno. Cook until the onion is translucent. Add garlic, oregano, chili powder and stir.

Add broth, chicken, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.

Add sour cream, cheese, corn, cilantro and lime juice.

In a small Tupperware bowl shake the cornstarch and water together with the lid on. Pour into soup.

Simmer 10 minutes. Serve topped with cojita, bacon, tortilla strips, more jalapenos and sliced avocado.

(Ashley Madden is a wife, mother and published cookbook author from Minden, La.)

The scene from The Andy Griffith Show, in black-and-white of course, is one you could have starred in at most any time this past Scorching Summer of 2023.

Two chairs on the wide sidewalk outside Floyd’s Barber Shop. Floyd sits in the one nearest his shop’s door, on the left of your TV screen. He is blank-faced and lazily working a whicker fan in front of his face. Up walks Sheriff Andy Taylor, who takes a seat and, as he crosses his legs, says, “Howdy, Floyd.”

Floyd, with no small amount of effort, the heat evident on a face that, even in black-and-white, is obviously ashen: “92.”

Andy: “It feels it.”

Floyd: “I just looked at the thermometer over the door (points his whicker fan that way). You know what it says?”

Andy: “92?”

Floyd, slack-jawed and fanning, a folded newspaper, no doubt The Mayberry Gazette, resting on his lap under his other hand: “92. Like an oven. Hot! Ohhh … it’s HOT.”

Andy: “Well, like Mark Twain said, ‘Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it.’”

Floyd, stops fanning and looks at Andy: “He say that?”

Andy: “Yep.”

Floyd: “I thought Calvin Coolidge said that.”

Andy: “No. No Floyd. Calvin Coolidge didn’t say that.”

Floyd: “What’d Calvin Coolidge say?”

Andy: “I don’t know.”

Floyd, fanning again, then turning back to Andy: “You sure Mark Twain didn’t get that from Calvin Coolidge?”

Andy: “No Floyd. Mark Twain lived before Calvin Coolidge.”

Floyd, sitting up a bit and leaning toward Andy: “Oh … he COULDN’T have gotten it from him. NO … but it’s HOT.”

And so it went, all summer in Mayberry over in Carolina back in the early 1960s — and all summer here in North Louisiana.

Funny deal about the weather. It gets hot around here and few seem to remember that it is always hot in the summer here. Some are cooler than others, but they’re all hot.

Summer of 1982, I had the privilege of helping build the bypass in Camden, Arkansas. (It’s a heckuva bypass, if you’re ever up that way.) My job was to walk in front of the grader — the big tractor that has the smoothing blade — and knock the dirt off stakes, driven at equal heights, so the driver could see them and make the dirt level for the rebar and pavement that’s to come. There is not a lot of shade in roadwork, as there are few trees in the middle of roads. And it was more than 100 degrees 21 days straight.

That was — clears throat — 40 years ago.

It’s always been hot. Next summer, it’s going to be hot again. (Just a guess.)

But you’ve made it! Hold out ’til Saturday and you’ve made it to autumn!

This is being typed on an evening where the outside temperature is mid-70s as we head into October, and what a fine month it is. October might just be the best of all the months — if it didn’t mean cold weather was coming.

And then what will you and Andy and Floyd talk about? Probably the weather. And possibly, during an ice storm, wish for a day like one we complained about in July, whicker fan in hand.

At least that’s what Mark Twain said … or maybe it was Calvin Coolidge.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

Graveside services for Vesta Boyet, 88, of Ringgold, LA will be held at 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, September 20, 2023 in Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Ringgold, LA.  Officiating will be Bro. Harry’O Brown.  Visitation will be from 12:30 P.M. until service time at Rockett Funeral Home, Ringgold, LA.

Vesta was born January 6, 1935 in Monroe, LA and passed away September 16, 2023 in Minden, LA. She was a member of First Baptist Church, Ringgold, LA and the Red Hatter’s Club.  After retiring from teaching at Ringgold High School, Vesta spent time doing ceramics, painting and taking care of her dog.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James F. Boyet. Left to cherish her memory include her sisters-in-law, Sally Lee and husband, Butch of Ringgold, LA and Lanelle Boyet of Hazel, TX and a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, Vesta wanted donations sent to Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home 7200 Desaird St. Monroe, LA  71203.

Please send all non-profit calendar events to bpjnewsla@gmail.com

September 22 (10 a.m.)

Faulk Auction Company – Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting

1968 N. Railroad Ave in Arcadia

September 22

Ringgold High School Homecoming vs. Plain Dealing High School

September 23

38th Annual Slabtown Fall Festival

September 24 (3 p.m.)

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Presents Youth Explosion

September 25 (6 p.m.)

Political Forum – Arcadia Events Center

September 28 (7 – 10 a.m.)

Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast

September 30 (8:30 a.m.)

Crawford Elementary Eagle Invitational (Grades K – 6) – Bonnie and Clyde Trade Days and RV Park

October 3 (6 – 8 p.m.)

Arcadia Police Department’s National Night Out 2023 Block Party 

North Railroad Avenue in Arcadia

October 18 (6 – 8 p.m.)

Church Community Fall Festival – Arcadia Events Center

October 21 (8 a.m. – 2 p.m.)

CASA’s 13th Annual Car Show – 1952 N. Railroad Ave. in Arcadia

The following arrests were made by local law enforcement agencies.

09/10/23

Bryan Allen of Arcadia was arrested for simple battery.

Glen Fleming IV of Gibsland was arrested for failure to appear warrant.

09/12/23

Katlin Smith of Castor was arrested for domestic abuse battery.

Nicolas Tiul Chac of Dallas, Texas was arrested for no driver’s license.

Xavier Davis of Minden was arrested for failure to appear.

Willie Whitaker of Lisbon was arrested as a fugitive.

Steven Perry, Jr. of Jackson, Mississippi was arrested for exceedind the maximum speed limit.

Nora Patterson of Jonesboro was arrested for criminal trespass of an immovable structure.

09/13/23

Latavion Thomas of Tyler, Texas was arrested as a fugitive.

09/14/23

Jose Garcia of Fort Smith, Arkansas was arrested for first offense D.W.I.

09/15/23

Dontrell Talley of Ringgold was arrested on 2 counts of being a fugitive and resisting an officer.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Notice of Death – September 19, 2023

Vesta Boyet

Jan. 06, 1935 – Sept. 16, 2023

Ringgold, La.

Visitation: 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023, Rocket Funeral Home, Ringgold, La. 

Graveside Service: 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023, Pleasant Grove Cemetary, Ringgold, La.

Philip Hudgins Kitchens

March 16, 1945 – Sept. 7, 2023

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Minden, La.

Thomas “Tommy” C. Stokes Jr.

Oct. 26, 1939 – July 20, 2023

Sibley, La.

Celebration of Life: 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, Stokes Residence, 484 Leachman Rd., Sibley, La. 71073

Etta “Jo” New McCollough

July 5, 1937 – Sept. 16, 2023

Minden, La/Athens, La

Graveside Service: 1 p.m. Sunday, October 1, 2023, Mt. Mariah Church and Cemetery, 2 miles North of Arcadia along Highway 9

Bienville Parish Journal publishes paid complete obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $80. Contact your funeral provider or bpjnewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Above death notices are free of charge.)

By Paige Nash 

Discussions regarding the construction of an emergency egress for Arcadia High School continued at Wednesday’s September Bienville Parish Police Jury (BPPJ) meeting and the topic was a hot one.

Engineer Robbie George of S.E. Huey Company presented the board with three possible alternative access routes for the school with an estimated cost for each. 

Upon hearing George’s findings, Police Juror for District 1 Bill Sims made a motion that he along with other jurors, Town of Arcadia representatives and George present this information to the Bienville Parish School Board. 

“I think this is something that should be addressed, but we need the school board on board. Nobody from the school board has contacted me,” said Sims. “I did talk to some members of the school board and they weren’t too receptive, but we could go to the school board and ask them.”

BPPJ President Jerry Bates pointed out during last month’s meeting that he did not believe responsibility for this route should fall solely on the jury, but that the Town of Arcadia and the school board should all be on board with this project. He made it clear at the September meeting that his stance on that has not changed.

“We made the decision to look at alternate routes. We have gone through the expense of having these studies done and I have seen no interest. No one is here from the school board or the city, so I just wonder if we are doing this for our benefit or theirs,” said Bates. “The school board is going to be responsible for having this done, not the police jury.”

The idea of constructing this alternative route specifically for AHS was brought to the attention of the jury by property owner, Douglas Sapp. Sapp has reportedly been working towards getting this project funded and completed for approximately three years. 

With Sapp spreading awareness of how critical it is that this emergency egress comes to fruition, other jurors have pointed out that Ringgold High School is also in the same predicament with only one entrance in and out of the school campus.

“We are going to have the same situation in Ringgold. There is only one entrance, so if we are going to talk to the school board we need to mention that, as well,” said Police Juror for District 5 Vic Fowler.

Police Juror for District 2 Jerry Roberson believes that AHS should be top priority when it comes to making sure funds are secured and the project is completed.

“Before Doug came up here and talked about this, nobody else said anything about Ringgold, so why are you bringing it up now? This has been going on for three years,” said Roberson. “Let’s work on our problem and if y’all can get y’all problems done, then fine.”

Some things Roberson said did not sit well with a member of the public in attendance. Assistant Fire Chief for Bienville Parish Fire District 4 and 5 Brian Lindberg raised his hand while the discussions were taking place. When BPPJ President Jerry Bates asked Lindberg if he had a comment, Lindberg did not hesitate to express his opinion.

“Gentlemen, you represent the entire parish of Bienville, not just your specific districts,” said Lindberg. “He was just saying ‘our’ area.”

While Roberson did not address Lindberg specifically, Juror Sims was quick to come to his defense.

“Mr. Roberson was stating his opinion. That’s all he was doing and I back him one hundred percent and you had your opportunity to speak at the first of the meeting.” said Sims. “Do not interrupt me anymore.”

Lindberg quickly expressed his right as a taxpayer of the parish to speak up and express his opinion.

“As a taxpayer, am I not allowed to speak? Again, you all work for the taxpayers,” said Lindberg.

Sims explained that they are willing to look into all school’s in the parish that may be dealing with similar issues. 

A meeting will be set up with the Bienville Parish School Board to present the alternative routes for AHS with Ringgold possibly being considered, as well.