By VPPJ Staff

Sometimes it’s the little things in life that trip you up.  I’ve been told I have a “cast iron” stomach, nothing seems to faze me, except maybe the humble cucumber.

Now, I know that I am not the only person who belches prodigiously when they eat cukes!  My stomach, however, takes it to the extreme.  Slip a half slice of a cucumber in the bottom of my 5 o’clock dinner salad and hear me roar like Mufasa at midnight.   I am not a fan!  This is not just because of the belching factor; I do not like the way they taste coming back up.  Sorry for the graphic details!

Science will tell you cucumbers are 96% water.  You take in a lot of fluid when you eat one.  Natural sugars in cukes include sucrose, glucose and fructose.  They may ferment in your gut and that causes belching.  The skin of a cuke can be hard to digest so peeling them helps.

When you visit a farmers market this time of year, cucumbers glisten and beckon you to buy.  Fresh, home grown and affordable, they are a great buy!  Since I naturally avoid them I don’t look for recipes with cucumbers.  Middle Eastern culture has many uses for cukes.  I will never fully enjoy a gyro cause of the tzatziki sauce.  Koreans make kimchee out of cukes, I will stick with cabbage.  Sushi lovers use cukes extensively.  Vegans adore them.

I once ordered a Pimm’s Cup cocktail.  It’s a veddy, veddy English drink and they do love their cucumbers.  My drink had tiny cubes of stuff in it; I thought melon. Not! They were cubes of cukes.  Thanks to the alcohol in the drink for making it drinkable.

The editor of the Vernon Parish Journal is a big fan of cucumbers.  This very moment there’s a large bowl of cukes, onions, vinegar and sugar marinating in our refrigerator.  Rest assured I will not invade that space!

Cucumbers are plentiful now, fresh, homegrown and full of burping liquid.  Grab some at your nearby farmers market or neighbor’s garden and burp away.  Just remember to excuse yourself.

Here is a recipe for quick and easy Cucumber Tomato Salad the editor wishes to share with your kitchen.  Bon appetit!

Trim off the two ends of a large peeled cucumber (no need to peel if it’s an English cucumber) and half it lengthwise.  Then slice it into 1/4-inch half rounds.  Cut 10 ounces of grape or cherry tomatoes in half; then thinly slice a small red onion to yield about 1/2 cup.  Place all together in a medium bowl.

Make salad dressing by whisking together in a small bowl the following: 2 T. olive oil, 2 T. red wine vinegar, 1 tsp. honey, 1/2 tsp. Kosher salt or fine sea salt; 1/4 tsp. black pepper. 

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix.  Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour or two to let the flavors blend and then serve.

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By James Turner

Lelia was the name of my favorite aunt.  She was a wonder and lived to be 96 years old.  “James, I didn’t think I’d live this long, I should be dead by now,” she would say, and we’d both laugh ourselves silly.

Lelia married the editor of the Dallas Morning News when she was 27 and he was 45.  She believed in giving everything a second chance.  She gave birth to and raised five kids, drove a school bus, sold fresh bread to make ends meet, and did the finest carpentry work you can imagine.  Her husband was an okay provider but took up philosophy too early and they almost starved.

Anyway, Lelia stepped up, and off they went, putting anything and everything to use one way or another.  She would collect discarded bricks, tiles, stones, teenagers, bottles and blocks to build her patio so the family could love the outdoors as she did.  She found things like corrugated tin, skylight glass, used lumber, you name it, to build her house around existing trees, an amazing gal.  The trees grew up through her library and the monkey grass graced her garden like a sable.  The refurbished piano rang.  Lots of reading from used books took precedent.  She did all her cooking, washing and drying, by hand.  All of us with half a brain, adored her. Her favorite used items were windows.  She would collect old, out of date windows and refurbish them.  They were works of art by the time she finished.

During the transitional years which all years are, windows went from beautifully crafted, thin slivers of East Texas and West Louisiana Longleaf Pine with wavy handmade glass panes, to aluminum lightweight sashes and crystal-clear glass.  Jalousies were the worst.  She loved the old wooden ones.  To her they were metaphors for life’s challenges.  “Sometimes your way ahead is lost or broken and a good cleaning and reuse is just the ticket,” Lelia would pronounce.

When I was back from Jordan where I had spent a life-altering year teaching architecture to highly motivated Jordanians, Lelia offered an available bedroom there in her wonderful, handmade house with its chickens and mockingbirds.  I’d fly out on Tuesday morning and crawl in on Sunday night.  Lelia, of an evening, would pour us a jigger of bourbon and tell stories about her latest find.  All her kids were gone, and her husband was not far behind.  She would brighten especially with the latest window project.

It began to sink in that finding a new use for an old thing or other had a certain deeper meaning.  She would say to me, “whenever I get the blues James, I go to the dump for a lift.”  Buying anything new, besides groceries, was beyond her imagination.  I bought the concept and still do.  What is it?  Recycle! Throw away nothing, or if you must, only with respect.

In the old days (1973) here in Leesville, we lived off the sand and gravel VFW Road, down on the lake.  On our way home was a big burn pit, where the parish put garbage and yard waste, etc.  Going there to throw out your trash was an experience. Once, Meriget and I found a broken wooden child’s chair.  I repaired it.  Now, (2024) it holds an honored place in a handmade cabin made of hewed, cypress boards from the Anacoco Prairie, circa 1840.  Re-using stuff is a labor of the spirit and dang good for the planet.  Thanks, Lelia.

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A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at New Willow Baptist Church, 443 Redtown Road in Leesville at 1:00 p.m. with Bishop William Roberson Sr. officiating. Burial will follow in Garden of Memories under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service.

On December 26, 1978, Michael Charles Ensley was born to the proud parents of Jo Etta Ensley and Rube Lee Williams.

Michael was raised in Leesville, where he attended First Saint Paul MBC Inc. under the leadership of Pastor, Dr. James L. Gaither Jr. He was very active as a youth participating in the Usher Ministry, Youth Choir, and Drill Team. As an adult, he moved his membership to God’s Temple of Deliverance under the leadership of Bishop Fred Ross.

Michael loved and cherished his family and friends. He enjoyed the time he spent fellowshipping and talking with them on the phone. He loved traveling and meeting new people. His love for traveling and meeting new people led him to two of his favorite jobs: Open Road Truck Driving and working as a Security Guard in Las Vegas Nevada.

Upon returning home, he continued his spiritual journey by reuniting with God’s Temple of Deliverance under the leadership of Bishop William Roberson Sr.

On Friday, May 31, 2024, Michael entered into eternal rest. He is preceded in death by his father, Rube Wiliams; one brother, Willie Lee Williams; and two sisters, Willie Mae Williams and Linda Williams.

Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Jo Etta Ensley of Leesville; six sisters: Rosemary Williams and Mercy Williams of Pleasant Hill, Louisiana; Keitonya (Darryl) Joiner and Paula Ensley of Leesville; Ella Dutton of Las Vegas, Nevada; and Crystal (Randy) Thames of Zachary, Louisiana; three brothers: Terry Ensley of Leesville; Rickey (Arjeania) Ensley of Fort Worth, Texas; and Rube Ensley of Houston, Texas; one uncle, Marshall (Betty) Ensley Sr., of Houston, Texas; four aunts: Laura Bell Venzant of Princeton, Texas; Lonnie Mae Banks and Mary Dean White of Houston; and Gloria Faye Davis of Lucky, Louisiana; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Also left to cherish his memory are bonus families: the Ross, Montgomery, Gassoway, and Butler families.

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Margie Hilda Knight Tipton, a resident of Leesville, was born May 8, 1928, and passed away on June 9, 2024, at 96 years of age.

Margie was a graduate of Northwestern University in Natchitoches and worked most of her professional life as a social worker with the Louisiana State Department of Health and Hospitals, until her retirement in 1983. Margie loved to travel and visited most of the 50 states, usually in her camper with her loving husband, Stanley, and family. Margie loved to read and work in her vegetable garden, canning produce to share with her family.

Margie was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley Elmo Tipton, Sr., and her son, Michael Hugh Tipton.

She is survived by her son, Stanley E. Tipton, Jr., and granddaughter, Tatiana, and her daughter, Gaye Tipton  (Wesley D.) Smith; their sons, John Clayton Smith and Gregory Todd (Lindsay) Smith; and great grandson, Oliver Tipton Smith.

A private graveside service was held at Castor Cemetery in Leesville on Thursday, June 13, 2024.

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The Louisiana Folklife Center at Northwestern State University will present the program “Fiddlin’ with the Finest! A Celebration of Louisiana Folk Fiddling” on June 15 at 11 a.m. at the Beauregard Museum at 120 S. Washington in DeRidder. The event is free and open to the public.  

Three past Louisiana State Fiddle Champions — Clancey Stewart, Joe Suchanek, and Ron Yule — will discuss the importance of the folk fiddling tradition with Dr. Shane Rasmussen, director of the Louisiana Folklife Center and Northwestern State Professor of English. Live music performed throughout the program will include various regional fiddle styles accompanied by demonstrations of fiddle stick playing and twin fiddling. A Q&A session on participating in fiddle competitions will follow. Fiddlers of all skill levels are invited to bring their instruments for a jam session with the invited musicians.  

This year’s Louisiana State Fiddle Championship will take place as part of the 44th annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival, to be held July 20 at 1 p.m. in Magale Recital Hall on the NSU campus. Fiddlers may compete in the championship or non-championship, as well as in the twin fiddle category. Registration is at noon in the first-floor foyer outside the Magale Recital Hall. The Fiddle Championship winner will perform on the Festival main stage in Prather Coliseum at 5 p.m. 

“Fiddlin’ with the Finest!” is sponsored by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum and the Louisiana Folklife Center. Support for the Festival is provided by grants from the Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc., the City of Natchitoches, the Louisiana Division of the Arts Decentralized Arts Fund Program, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the Louisiana Office of Tourism, the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, the Shreveport Regional Arts Council and the State of Louisiana.  

The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. 

For more information, call the Louisiana Folklife Center at (318) 357-4332, email folklife@nsula.edu, or go to nsula.edu/folklife/. 

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Northwestern State University’s Summer Dinner Theatre will present two entertaining shows this summer.

“Destination Rock and Roll” will be performed on June 18-22 and 25-29 and “Live and Let Spy” will be presented on July 16-20 and 23-27.

“Destination Rock and Roll” celebrates the sound of a nation and a generation coming of age. This dynamic show is a Rock ‘n’ Roll hit parade that explores the cities, streets and neighborhoods where the music was born. The audience will experience the electrifying journey of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s iconic sounds from the vibrant 1950s to the colorful 2000s and beyond.

Tickets are $45 which includes the meal and the show. A cash bar will be available. Doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner service and the performance starts at 6 p.m. Reservations are required, and business attire is expected. To order tickets, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/destination-rock-and-roll-tickets-906987462917?aff=oddtdtcreator

The cast is Mia Rodriguez and Madeline Grant of Alexandria, Phoenix Aura Woods of Lafayette, Leah Thompson of Rosepine, and Charlysse Casma of Baton Rouge. Pia Wyatt will direct and choreograph “Destination Rock and Roll.” Daniel Ley will be the musical director. Will Sawyer is the set designer and Andrew Killion is the lighting designer.

“Live and Let Spy” is a groovy, high-energy comedic murder mystery where far-out escapades and funky mishaps run amuck. The cast is Max Hebert of Cut Off, Jackson Holoubek of Shreveport, Thompson, Woods, Rodriguez and Casma. Sawyer is the director.

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A funeral service for Chad Allen Martin Anderson will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Cold Springs Baptist Church. A visitation will be held on Friday, June 14, 2024, from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the church. The burial will follow at Self Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Pallbearers will be Noah Cooley, Justin Johnston, Brannon Jeane, Brandon Monk, Eric Reberg, Jeff Martinez, Josh Martin, Chase Lee, Bryan Dowden, Mike Leonard, Brenden Anderson, Brett Dowden, and Hunter Jacobs.

Chad Allen Martin Anderson was born in Shreveport, LA on August 4, 1981. He passed away at his home surrounded by family on June 11, 2024.

Chad was the youngest child of Gerald Anderson and Jeanette Martin. It was evident early on that Chad was a Moma’s boy. His sisters were fiercely protective of their baby brother. The three of them were always on many adventures.

Chad loved baseball. When he was young, he played the sport until the age of thirteen. He was one of the best second basemen in the league of Allstars.

Chad loved to have a great time, tell stories and jokes. His humor seemed to run parallel to that of his Uncle Carter Wayne, and now that torch has been passed to his nephew Hunter Jacobs.

He had an incredible love for the Chicago Cubs. He was blessed enough to have visited numerous major league stadiums. He also enjoyed the 90’s sitcoms, Cobra Kai and The Ranch.

Chad was a carpenter by trade who credits his Uncle Johnny for teaching him everything he knew. Chad had performed several projects for friends, family, companies, and schools.

Chad was the kind of dad that his children could talk to him freely about anything, at any time. His three children, Alyssa, Alexis, and Brenden, knew he was ready to listen when they reached out. He attended many dance recitals and school activities.

Chad was also a doting Uncle. He played a huge role in the upbringing of his nieces and nephews.  He experienced many of their first family trips and sports activities and loved spoiling them every chance he had. He even had special names for each one. He was especially proud of his nephew, Dallas Jacobs, who is in the United States Air Force.  When you walk in Chad’s house, Dallas’s picture is the first one you will see.

He was a very proud Papa Dawg to his grandson, Bodhi Gene Cooley. He loved spending time with Bodhi because it gave him many excuses to be a child again and do the things he used to do as a child: trucks, build roads, play in the mud; all of it.

Chad was preceded in death by Angela Welch (fiancé).

Chad leaves behind his parents, Gerald and Jeanette; children: Alyssa Cooley (Noah) of Rosepine, Louisiana; Alexis Johnston (Justin) of Archie, Missouri; and Brenden Anderson of Leesville; sisters: Tiffany Jacobs (Anderson) of DeRidder, Louisiana, and Chey Anderson of Anacoco; nephews: Dallas Jacobs, Hunter Jacobs, and Brett Dowden; nieces: Ashleigh Dowden and Sicily Jacobs; and grandson, Bodhi Cooley.

His cousins are too many to list, and his absence leaves a big hole in the lives of many. Many of his childhood memories include Uncle Johnny’s children, Lawasa, Tracy and John, and another one that was like a sister to him was Erika. He had a special bond with everyone. That’s a perk of having a large family.

Chad has many friends that he would do anything for, and amongst those friends, they all shared a few thoughts:

1) He was a hilarious guy.

2) He was a lovable guy.

3) Chad was the best and always will be.

4) He was a Gentle Giant.

5) Chad touched the lives of many by always making them feel better about themselves. He was a good man, with a heart of Gold and never be forgotten.

6) Chad, you have always had so much unconditional love for everyone, and I am so beyond blessed I was one especially receive it.

Go Cubs!

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William L Walker, 90, of Leesville, Louisiana, passed away on Sunday, June 9, with his wife and daughter by his side. Bill was born in Leesville on April 20, 1934, to Joshua J. Walker and Vadie Bailey Walker.

Services will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, located at 120 Alexandria Hwy, Leesville, on Friday, June 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Kermit Bostelman officiating. Interment will follow at Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery.

Bill, a man of unwavering dedication, served 24 years in the United States Army, stationed in Korea and Vietnam, and had multiple tours in Germany. His commitment extended to his community, where he was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, serving as president for 15 years. Bill’s quiet demeanor was a testament to his love for his animals and the respect he commanded from those around him.

Bill was preceded in death by his son, William (Billy) Walker Jr.; brother, Johnny; and sisters, Lula, Betty, Berty May, and Gladdis.

Bill’s legacy lives on through his loving family. He is survived by his wife, Tilli, of 66 years; daughters, Angela Trezil (Chris) and Tina Walker (Ben); sister Bertha; his faithful little dog, Cinnamon; and a host of nieces and nephews who cherished him dearly.

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WILLIAM L. WALKER
April 20, 1934 – June 9, 2024
Service: June 14, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Leesville at 11:00 a.m.

MARGIE HILDA KNIGHT TIPTON
May 28, 1928 – June 9, 2024
Service: Private on June 13, 2024, at Castor Cemetery in Leesville, Louisiana

CHAD-ALLEN MARTIN ANDERSON
August 4, 1981 – June 11, 2024
Service: June 15, 2024, at Cold Springs Baptist Church in Anacoco, Louisiana, at 10:00 a.m.

 

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reports the boat and body of missing fisherman, John “Buddy” Martin, age 64, of Joaquin, Texas, was recovered the evening of June 10 from an area near the Jolly Roger Marina on the Louisiana side of Toledo Bend.

According to Sabine County, Texas Sheriff Kevin Windham, his boat and body were found by Sabine Country Chief Deputy Chad Hooper and Game Warden Sam Anderson.

Martin had left the Texas side of the lake near Huxley Bay Saturday June 8 and never returned.  Texas and Louisiana agents searched two days for him.  The investigation was led by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

This marks the 5^th fatality of the year on the area’s biggest body of water.  Authorities urge you to use caution on the water, especially now that water levels are high and may not allow you to see hazards in areas unfamiliar to you.

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Lee Jamal Tezeno, age 30, of Leesville was arrested and charged with one count of Solicitation on an Interstate Highway.  Bond was not set, and Tezeno remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Nicole Augla, age 23, of Yuba City, California, was arrested and charged with one count of Entry on or Remaining on Land or in a Place Where Forbidden and one count of Disturbing the Peace.  Bond was set at $3381.   Augla remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Jared Anthony Willis, age 28, of Leesville was arrested and charged with two counts of Criminal Damage to Property.  Bond was set at $2562.  Willis remains in the Vernon Parish Jail.

Drake Anthony Hernandez, age 19 of Pitkin, Louisiana, was arrested and charged with one count Second Degree Battery and one count of Battery of a Dating Partner.  Bond was set at $4281. Hernandez posted bond and was released.

ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

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The Vernon Parish School Board held a regular board meeting Tuesday, June11, at 10 a.m., in the main office board room.

Board members accepted employee retirements, approved leave without pay requests, and authorized  bills to be paid.

During May, over 120 students who represented the Vernon Parish system in excelling at statewide competitions were recognized for their achievements.  The remaining schools and their students introduced on Tuesday were from Pitkin, Rosepine Elementary, Simpson, Vernon Middle, Leesville and Hicks.

Finance Director Tim Ward reported sales tax collections were down by nearly $360,764 from last year, a two percent drop.  He attributed the late swoon in collections, in part, to the recent deployment of Ft. Johnson troops to Europe.  Ward also noted there will be an upturn in collections when they return at the beginning of 2025.

Ms. Leslie Ortiz reported to the Board members on the Special Education Advisory Committee and the events of the last year.  This year’s Special Olympics at Rosepine drew one of their largest crowds ever.  Autism Awareness Month was recognized in April.  The Vernon Parish system is currently engaged with about 250 students.  Several recent donations from the private sector will enable the committee to plan and do more.  Events being considered include a Special Night out for Students, a Boot Camp for parents to improve their coping skills, and additional behavioral support for students.  

Two long-time Board employees said their goodbyes to friends, family and colleagues.  Dwain Ducote is retiring from his post as Child Welfare/Maintenance Director with 29 years as a teacher, coach, administrator, and Board supervisor.  Personnel/Athletic Director Hub Jordan is calling it quits after 50 years in education as a teacher, coach, principal and Board supervisor.  Rick Smith of the Board’s Technical Department put together a video of the careers of both and set it to music. It was a surprise to both of them, and they said their goodbyes following the showing. 

Board members also congratulated Ms. Jennifer Wilbanks, Principal at Hicks.  She was recently named a finalist for State Principal of the Year by the Louisiana Department of Education.  Winners will be announced in Baton Rouge at the state education convention July 27.

The next Vernon Parish School Board meeting is set for Thursday, July 11, at 10 a.m., due to the July 4^th holiday.

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The Vernon Parish Police Jury met Monday, June 10, at 5 p.m. in the parish administrative building.

Visitors included Pitkin resident, Richard Nolen, who was lodging a complaint against Vernon Parish Animal Control Officers who allegedly came to his home and were rude to his wife and himself.  He wanted some accountability of the parish worker and insisted his home security tape would prove his grievance.  Police Jury President Jim Tuck assured him the conduct of the employee would be questioned during an investigation by the VPPJ.  Tuck requested a copy of the tape in question for review.

Mrs. Dixie Carson spoke again to jurors concerning Waste Connections.  This is not the first time Carson has represented the neighborhood around the Waste Connections facility.  Complaints from residents include constant noise, trash from trucks, odors, and the erosion of parish roads due to excessive heavy truck use.  She also complained of the harassment of neighbors by employees of Waste Connections.  Carson stated that according to health and safety agencies, the Vernon Parish location of Waste Connections,  is the only trash facility in Louisiana located in a residential neighborhood.  The residents have complained for thirty years and feel like nothing has been done, even though re-location has been discussed by Waste Connections officials.  Carson said a petition of neighborhood residents is being gathered and a congressional investigation is being called for.

Police jurors also heard from Allen Parish police juror Roland Hollins who explained the Allen Parish resolution against the Carbon Capture initiative being pushed by Exxon-Mobil in Texas and Louisiana.  Hollins said Allen, Vernon, Beauregard, and Jefferson Davis parishes have sent resolutions to the state opposing this practice.  Opponents of the new technology fear not enough study of the technique and safety makes it risky to the local water supply.    They are concerned that the CO-2 pumped deep into the earth will damage natural aquafers and contaminate the water supply.

The area in question; the Chicot Aquifer System, impacts all or parts of 15 parishes in  central and southwest Louisiana.  It is the major source of water, accounting for 48% of the public freshwater, and for industrial, agriculture and aquaculture use in the area.  The EPA classifies the Chicot Aquifer as a “Sole Source Aquifer”, meaning there is no other reliable water source for southwest and south-central Louisiana.  This system is replenished by rainwater in the Aquifer Recharge Zone, located in Vernon, Allen, Rapides, and Evangeline Parishes. This is the area selected for the first round of deep wells.

Pumping CO-2 underground is the new alternative to releasing it into the atmosphere, where it does cause measurable damage.  Opponents of the method simply want more testing and assurances that water supplies will remain safe.

Marvin Hilton of the Personnel Committee reported the 30^th Judicial District had hired Brock A. McKiness as a law clerk at a salary of $3500 per month.  The parish road manager wants to hire Blayne K. Nolen as a full-time equipment operator in district 5, following a six-month probation period.  Hilton had a request to change the status of Virginia Billingsley to permanent full-time receptionist and purchasing agent in the administrative office following a six-month probation period.

Road Maintenance and Construction Committee chairman David Brister reported two requests from the Vernon Parish Health Unit to fill in two abandoned wells. The committee heard a resolution for routine maintenance for the Town of Rosepine and the Village of Simpson.  The committee authorized the jury to solicit bids for Base Seal Liquid Soil Stabilizer and Top Shield Fog Sealant (for dirt and erosion control).

The Vernon Parish Police Jury will next meet on Monday, June 24.

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The Leesville City Council held a public hearing Monday, June 10, before the regular meeting to discuss adopting Ordinance 5 of 2024.  This amended the operating budget for 2023-2024 and set forth the 2024-2025 fiscal year budget for the City.  There were no public comments.  The budget figures are available for viewing at Leesville City Hall.

During the regular meeting that followed, monthly bills were presented to the Council totaling $97,251.34.  There was also a pay request from city engineering consultants, Meyer & Associates, for $5,751.75 for work on the Entrance Road sewer project.  City Engineer, Mark McCarty, said the sewer project is on track to begin June 24.

The City Council also passed resolutions for setting Council meetings for the 24-25 fiscal year.  The Council will seek assistance from Collins Land Surveyors for work on the Entrance Road sub-station project.

City Administrator Patti Larney said that the City will establish a schedule for the Leesville Fire Department to set up sprinklers in city parks beginning later this month, through the summer months.

Councilwoman Willie Mae Kennedy reminded those in attendance that a Juneteenth Celebration will be held Saturday, June 15, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Community Center in Leesville.  The public is invited to attend and enjoy free food and beverages.

The next Leesville City Council meeting will be at 3 p.m. on Monday, June 24.

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By Rickey Robertson

Now, as readers look at the title of this story, you are going to say, “Not Custer’s last man but Custer’s last stand.” No, as you have learned in one of my previous stories, there was a survivor of the Alamo, and now there is confirmed evidence that one cavalry trooper assigned to the 7^th Cavalry did survive!

Frank Finkle was born on January 29, 1854, in Washington County, Ohio. He enlisted in the US Army in the early 1870’s using the name of August Finckle. Experts have now compared Finkle’s handwriting on his enlistment paperwork with samples of his later handwriting and they are an exact match! Throughout his life he used several aliases and different spellings of his name. But is there evidence that he survived the massacre? Yes, there is. Chief Rain-in-the-Face mentioned in an Army report that a soldier was seen escaping from the battleground. A friend of Finkle, Charles Windolph, in the first unit to arrive at the massacre, searched and searched the complete battlefield looking for his friend’s remains but did not find them. This was filed in an Army report. As patrols fanned out throughout the area, Lt. Edward Godfrey’s unit found a dead sorrel US Cavalry horse at the headwaters of the Rosebud and Yellowstone Rivers. This is the color of the horses in Custer’s company and was found exactly where Finkle said he had left the wounded horse when he had to shoot the animal.

In Finkle’s story he awoke while still on his mount, named Ginger, and the horse was in full gallop. Finkle had been wounded in the head and in the leg with his mount also wounded. He rode slowly for 4 or 5 days and the wounded horse finally gave out. He took only the bridle and began walking until he saw a settler cutting wood. The man and his partner took the bullet from his leg and nursed him back to health.

Finkle did not know if he was posted as a deserter after the battle. He continued west and caught a steamboat on the Missouri River, and onboard the boat he learned that there were no survivors of the Custer Massacre. He decided to never disclose that he had been at the massacre. He traveled to San Francisco, didn’t like that city, then went on to Dayton Washington where in 1886, he married a local girl and bought his first farm. Over the years he became a large and wealthy landowner.

In 1920, surrounded by family ad friends who were gathered for a visit, one of the visitors began to talk about what those “damn Indians had done to General Custer.” After 44 years, this is what broke Finkle’s silence. He told all in attendance of his secret. And he gave an eyewitness account of the massacre and of how he came to Dayton, Washington.

This is an incredible story that most folks have never heard. Now we can say there was a survivor of the massacre to go along with Captain Keogh’s cavalry mount Comanche, the only animal survivor of the battle; brave men and brave animals who are remembered to this very day.

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The Village of Simpson will host its first ever Red, White, and Blue Festival Saturday, June 29, from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.  Free parking is available at the Simpson High School parking lot.

The festival is free and open to the public.  There will be craft vendors, food trucks, music, slides, bounce houses, a dunking booth, games, and arts and crafts for kids.  Don’t miss the foam party!  Adults are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

The festival committee is inviting all owners of classic cars and hot rods to enter the parade at noon. Line-up is 11 a.m. for the parade at Simpson Baptist Church.  There is no cost to enter and ride.

Music in the pavilion area at Simpson High School will begin in the afternoon with James Bonner, and The Old Man Band.  Big Daddy’s Entertainment will provide a DJ and music.

For more information on the festival, go to the Facebook page for the Simpson Community Events Center.

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The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your
way next weekend.

Three days of festivities are right around the corner, Thursday June 20 through Saturday June 22, with
the 2024 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2024 will be enshrined next Saturday night at the Natchitoches Events Center to
culminate the 65 th Induction Celebration.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 20, with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m.,
free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum.

The Friday, June 21 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons
Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2024 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert presented by Rapides Regional
Medical Center on the downtown riverbank stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction
with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party.

The slate on Saturday, June 22 kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community
relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, on the NSU campus at the Webb
Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event has been filled to capacity since last
month.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for
Riverside Reserve on Mill Street.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at
5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State
University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception
and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling
318-238-4255. Those events are nearing sellouts.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of 2024 is headlined by a star-studded group of eight inductees from the LSHOF “competitors
ballot,” led by national sports celebrities Seimone Augustus, Drew Brees and Daniel Cormier.

Along with Brees, the New Orleans Saints’ NFL record-setting passer, is Augustus, a Baton Rouge native
who is one of women’s basketball’s all-time best, and Cormier, the Lafayette born-and-raised Olympic
wrestler who became and remains one of the most prominent figures in MMA.

This year’s class also includes 1992 Olympic wrestling gold medalist Kevin Jackson from LSU along with
former basketball coach Tulane Perry Clark and McNeese football great Kerry Joseph, who had a 19-year
pro career.

More inductees are high school football coach Frank Monica, who won state titles at three different
south Louisiana schools, and Ray Sibille, a Breeders’ Cup-winning thoroughbred jockey from Sunset who
ranks among the nation’s elite riders.

Grambling’s Wilbert Ellis becomes the second-ever recipient of the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award.
During his 43-year baseball coaching career and since, Ellis has made local, statewide and national
impact not only in the competitive arena but also in community service and leadership.

Winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism are widely-respected south
Louisiana sportswriters Bobby Ardoin and Ron Higgins. Longtime Southland Conference commissioner
Tom Burnett, a Louisiana Tech graduate, will receive the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The 2024 Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the
support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit
entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors. 

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation
President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke,
Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.  

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Northwestern State University’s Summer Dinner Theatre will present two entertaining shows this summer.

“Destination Rock and Roll” will be performed on June 18-22 and 25-29 and “Live and Let Spy” will be presented on July 16-20 and 23-27.

“Destination Rock and Roll” celebrates the sound of a nation and a generation coming of age. This dynamic show is a Rock ‘n’ Roll hit parade that explores the cities, streets and neighborhoods where the music was born. The audience will experience the electrifying journey of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s iconic sounds from the vibrant 1950s to the colorful 2000s and beyond.

Tickets are $45 which includes the meal and the show. A cash bar will be available. Doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner service and the performance starts at 6 p.m. Reservations are required, and business attire is expected. To order tickets, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/destination-rock-and-roll-tickets-906987462917?aff=oddtdtcreator

The cast is Mia Rodriguez and Madeline Grant of Alexandria, Phoenix Aura Woods of Lafayette, Leah Thompson of Rosepine, and Charlysse Casma of Baton Rouge. Pia Wyatt will direct and choreograph “Destination Rock and Roll.” Daniel Ley will be the musical director. Will Sawyer is the set designer and Andrew Killion is the lighting designer.

“Live and Let Spy” is a groovy, high-energy comedic murder mystery where far-out escapades and funky mishaps run amuck. The cast is Max Hebert of Cut Off, Jackson Holoubek of Shreveport, Thompson, Woods, Rodriguez and Casma. Sawyer is the director.

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The world was blessed when Wanda Lee Sanderson Smart was born on December 20, 1929, to Betty and Lloyd Sanderson in Texola, Oklahoma.  Wanda passed from this life on June 6, 2024, in Leesville, Louisiana, at the age of 94 wonderful years. She spent many happy days on the farm with her older brother, Sonny, and her younger sisters, Doris June and Nancy Lou. Her dad loved music, and many a Sunday the family journeyed with him, attending singings and supporting his guitar music and quartet group.

Wanda worked as a teen, and one of her favorite jobs was at the J.C. Penney store in Portales, New Mexico, where perhaps she first discovered her love of clothes, which continued until the day she passed.

She met the love of her life, James Robert Smart, better known as Jim Bob, at the age of 14, when she was singing for a revival service. She did, however, choose to go to singing school and travel with a quartet, so Jim Bob had to wait a bit. However, they did marry on June 5, 1947, in Portales, New Mexico, and started their life together.  They resided in Farwell, Texas, where Jim Bob worked for Santa Fe Railroad. Vicki Lynn arrived on the scene and three years later, Karla Jean showed up.

Jim Bob and Wanda attended Texico United Pentecostal Church in Texico, New Mexico, where Brother Jim Bob was the premier worship leader of the 50’s and 60’s, even into the 80’s. Mrs. Wanda served as his backup singer as she literally sat behind Jim Bob on the platform, playing her beautiful blue accordion and allowing her resounding alto voice to be lifted in praise. Vicki and Karla were instructed to sit on the front seat and be still. When they would waver, Wanda’s large brown eyes would look in their direction and chastise them with just one stern look. (Vicki, of course, was the instigator and Karla was totally innocent.)

Wanda and Jim Bob served the church in Texico not only in music, but raised money serving Mexico Dinners where Wanda was the Manager of it all. They paid off the church after much hard work and it was a highlight in their life when they burned the mortgage. Their life revolved around attending every camp meeting and every General Conference. Church and God were their life. They were friends to the ministry. They always supported their pastor and church. Also, they opened their home to young evangelists who might need a place to reside between revival meetings.

In 1977, they moved to Amarillo, Texas and served churches there. And in 1999, they moved to Austin, Texas to be close to Vicki and Joe. They enjoyed attending Christian Life Church and made many friends, helping with the bookstore and praying with people in the altar. When Jim Bob passed away in 2007, Wanda moved to be with Karla and Mark. In 2010, Wanda moved with them to Leesville, Louisiana when they became pastor at First United Pentecostal Church. Without a doubt, Wanda so enjoyed living in Leesville with all her new friends and wonderful church family.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Betty Sanderson, her dear husband, Jim Bob Smart, her brother, J. A. Sanderson, and her younger sister, Nancy Tivis. She is survived by her daughter Vicki and husband, Joe Christian of Austin, Texas, her daughter Karla and husband, Mark Christian of Leesville, Louisiana, grandchildren, Shanna Grooms, Kara Moses, Geoff and Allissa Christian, Courtney and Micah Barley, Kalee and Daniel Bernard, great grands, Alex and Ashlyn Grooms, Major McCool, Audrey and William Barley, Claire and Elise Bernard, and the most recent arrivals, Colson Christian and Khristian Bernard. Her sister, Doris Hapke, who has stood by her side for her lifetime, nephew, Tim Tivis and wife, Jodi, nieces, Cheryl Klika and husband Mike, Melissa Haxton, and many grand nieces and nephews also survive Wanda. The Smart Clan, nieces, Linda Penry and husband, Dan, Carol Burginger and husband, Terry, and nephew, Steve Smart, also loved Aunt Wanda as she babysat and entertained them all.

Wanda’s final resting place will be at Cook-Walden Forest Oaks Memorial Park on Thursday, June 13, at 2:00 p.m.

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Graveside services honoring the life of Leland Miland Harris were held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at Holly Grove Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service.

Leland Miland Harris was born on June 21, 1959, in Anacoco, Louisiana, to Alger Gene and Dora Faye Harris. He passed away at his home on June 4, 2024, at the age of 65. He was a master electrician. He loved to cook for his family and spend time with them. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and loved football and the Green Bay Packers.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Gary Gene, Duane Harris, and Randy Joe Harris.
He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Cheri Dionne Harris; daughters, Chelsey Dionne Harris of Houston, Texas, Allison Casey Harris, also of Houston; and Taylor Layne Harris of Anacoco; brothers, Jimmy Harris of Porter, Texas; sister, Judy Bradley, of Lake Charles, Louisiana; and grandchildren, Addison Dawn Raney, Hailey Elizabeth Raney, and Ryder James White.

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Vernon Parish boasts a legendary list of things to do. That’s why we’re known as Louisiana’s Legend Country! You can stroll down Main Street and take in art, antiques, and boutique shopping, or find historic locations. You’ll find amazing outdoor and historic adventures throughout the area, along with so many spots to eat and drink along the way!  Kick off your summer exploring Vernon Parish and enjoy the many activities.

Get on the water! With more than five notable bodies of water, Anacoco Lake, Toledo Bend Lake, Vernon Lake, Sabine River, and Toro Bayou, Vernon Parish provides ample opportunities for boating, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, and, yes, abundant fishing! For more information, visit: https://vernonparish.org/outdoors/

Enjoy nature! Watch the beautiful phenomenon of eagles and other beautiful birds in our forested hills and water habitats. For more information on birding, visit: https://vernonparish.org/outdoors_cat/birding. You can even check out the webcam of resident eagles nesting in Kisatchie National Forest! We can’t wait to welcome the new hatchlings! https://www.facebook.com/KisatchieNF.

Beat the heat and enjoy indoor fun! Get your game on and enjoy bowling at Strike Zone Bowling Center. Indoor activities are widely varied in Vernon Parish, from taking in a live theater show or art gallery exhibit, to taking a spa day! For more information, visit: https://vernonparish.org/things-do-cat/indoors/

Shop local! Third Street Market is held in Leesville each Saturday, from 8am-1pm.

Tag us on social media at #LALegendCountry and share your legendary fun this summer!

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