The Northwestern State University Foundation will hold the popular spring fund raiser Flavor of Louisiana on Friday, March 15 in Prather Coliseum. Flavor of Louisiana is a seafood extravaganza featuring samplings of seafood dishes prepared by chefs from around the state, along with options for non-seafood eaters, coffees, desserts, specialty cocktails, craft beers, music, dancing, raffles and silent auctions.

Flavor of Louisiana is presented in partnership with the Louisiana Seafood Board with special guest Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser. All proceeds go to support NSU student scholarships and faculty development.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $80 per person. Sales end March 14.

Sponsorships are also available on several levels and include corresponding perks, such as reserved seating, preferred parking and more.

To purchase tickets, visit https://northwesternstatealumni.com/event/fol-2024/. To become a sponsor, contact the NSU Development Office at 318-357-4411 or email Cristy Bernard at bernardc@nsula.edu.

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Operation Deploy Your Dress (ODYD) was founded in 2015 by Renee Chapman, Ronya Rendon, Yvonne Coombes, and Melissa Riely at Fort Bliss, Texas. The founders originally decided to organize a dress swap among their units’ spouses as a way to defray the costs associated with purchasing formalwear for holiday balls, which occur regularly on military bases across the country. The concept took root immediately, with support from both the Garrison Command and the Spouses Club at Fort Bliss. The idea soon spread to other installations and today, ODYD operates as a non-profit organization on 13 U.S. bases as well as one in Germany.

Locally, ODYD is overseen and supported by the Fort Johnson Spouses and Community Club. The shop itself is located in Tigerland on North Fort Johnson, and program co-chairs Kourtni Jones and Mary Schmid Carter oversee all aspects of the operation. No one affiliated with ODYD at Fort Johnson is paid; the initiative is powered entirely by an army of dedicated volunteers. The shop was recently gifted with a generous donation of new dress racks, for which we are immensely grateful!

Customers interested in utilizing ODYD only need to show their military ID to check out their free dress. Dresses must be checked out by an active duty service member or the dependent of a service member. Due to our current volume, shoppers are allowed 2 dresses per operating year (usually August-June) and also have access to additional items like shoes, jewelry, and other accessories. The limit is subject to flexibility and is dependent upon supply and demand within the shop. A small selection of menswear is also available.

What do ODYD customers say about their experience?

“Everyone asked where did I get my dress and I told them about you guys and how amazing the experience was!!” -Alexes M.

“I saw [my dress] on your Facebook pictures in December and wanted it so badly, but figured it would be gone quickly. We didn’t actually make it to ODYD until January 6 and I couldn’t find it on the racks anywhere. Turns out, someone was trying it on and she didn’t like it on herself so I had the chance to try it on. It fit perfectly! Felt like it was meant to be. I’m so grateful.” -Jessica K.

“I appreciate you guys so much! This program is amazing. I have been ball dress shopping for the last 12 years and to not have the stress of having to pay for a dress and going shopping was great!” -Holli W.

“I absolutely HATE dress shopping, but y’all made it fun, and although [my friends] were throwing dresses at me left & right, I enjoyed it! thank y’all for making it fun & helping me feel comfortable.” -Kathryn M.

Starting in March 2024, ODYD will be expanding its shop hours to be open at least one day per week. All Open Hour shop dates and times can be found on the “Fort Johnson- Operation Deploy Your Dress” Facebook page. No appointments are necessary; shoppers can stop by any time during Open Hours. Persons wanting to organize a private shopping event for their unit (minimum of 10 attendees) should email odydfortjohnson@gmail.com to get a copy of the Event Contract form.

ODYD gratefully accepts donations from the local community. We ask that the dresses be gently used and in good working order, since the shop currently does not have the ability to replace zippers, mend tears, or otherwise repair the dresses. All sizes are welcome, although there is currently a particular need for sizes 12 and up. Menswear supplies are also low at this time. Donations can be made during shop Open Hours OR a dropoff or pickup can be arranged by contacting odydfortjohnson@gmail.com.

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By VPJ Staff

I am fairly certain that you have had this discussion with a family member or one of your circles of friends: do you like hot dogs? Following years of thought and discourse, I have come to the conclusion that the hot dog is the “teeter-totter” of American cuisine. You either love them or hate them! Not much room in the middle here. The polite way to be “on the fence” is to admit you occasionally eat one!

Greeks in the 9th century ate processed meat, the earliest form of hot dogs. Frankfurt, Germany, celebrated the 536th anniversary of the frankfurter, the forerunner to today’s dogs. They liked to eat their “little sausages” on bread, and that crossed over to America during the 1893 Colombian Exposition (World’s Fair) in Chicago. St. Louis is responsible for making the hot dog standard fare in baseball parks all over. St. Louie also gets credit for developing the hot dog bun during the Louisiana Purchase Exposition (World’s Fair) in 1904.

If you don’t like hot dogs, that’s okay. There is now a plant-based alternative for you. Uh-yumm. If you don’t like hot dogs or processed meat, you will never know the many things that pair well with Vienna sausage. You will never get a Spam calendar from me for Christmas (365 Spam recipes). You will not understand a can of deviled Ham on the lake or duck blind or deer stand at sunrise.

Hot dog lovers know the joy of “having it your way”. You can literally put whatever your taste buds crave on a dog. In south Louisiana, a stick of boudin is just a hot dog with lagniappe.

You can cook a hot dog lots of ways. Grilling is great — even a little burnt (personal fav). Boiling is OK; just don’t serve me a dog that’s been sitting in weenie-water for three hours. Get jiggy wit’ it and air fry that puppy. Cut them up and mix ‘em in baked beans or mac and cheese. Ah…yess! I even like hot dogs mixed with scrambled eggs, onions and cheese. Yuck! Yeah; that’s what my wife says, too!

Let’s take a minute and qualify what makes a good hot dog. Sorry to be a snob, but I prefer 100% all-beef dogs. Pick your dogs carefully; there are a million of them out there. Nirvana may be a quarter pound all beef dog! Where o’ where in Leesville can you find one of these rarities?

The ubiquitous Sonic foot-long chili cheese has been on their menu forever, although I cannot vouch for the quality of the dog. Good value by the way! Mr. Hot Dog in the Lowes parking lot has his own dog wagon and serves a great all-beef quarter pounder fresh off the grill and dressed to order. He is a dynamo; a true one-man show, as his line will often attest. That same big quarter pounder can also be found at an unlikely place in Leesville. Fatboy and Skinny’s has a great burger, but you can get a big slobber knocker dog with any of their burger toppings. Let me hear an amen!

I learned to love the hot dog as an adult in 1975 with my baptismal of a Chicago Dog. The ingredients are very specific. The bun must be poppy seeded; the dog must be all-beef. You must have yellow mustard, neon green sweet relish, chopped raw onions, tomato wedges, dill pickle spears, and sport peppers (tiny but deadly); all dusted with celery salt — lightly!

There used to be a place in Baton Rouge out on O’Neal Lane, Chicago Al’s, owned by a guitar player who was once stationed at Ft. Polk (back then), married a local girl, and gigged at Pat’s Steak and Italian Restaurant. Al only had four things on his menu, and they all came from Chicago…call it REAL DEAL!! He’s closed now, a victim of neighborhood progress and his concentration on blues music. How many local folks remember Weiner King on Highway 171 in Leesville? Owned by the Bolinger family from Simpson, they were open for a while. I nearly cried when they closed the doors. I still get weepy thinking about the slaw dog and cheese dog.

Thank goodness my wife likes a good dog now and then. She does not share my passion for the critters but will eat a good chili dog now and then. This recipe is an old family favorite of hers…enjoy!

Joy Hicks’s Chili Dogs
Boil wieners in pot of boiling water until plump; drain. Arrange hot dog buns side-by-side in an oven-safe dish. Prepare bun with your condiment choice(s). Place wiener in bun and top with desired amount of chopped onions and sweet pickle relish; top with desired amount of chili, then with shredded cheddar cheese.  Broil in oven until cheese is melted.

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Funeral services for Ivy Charles Underwood, 85 of Leesville, were held at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville. Bro. Lloyd Handorf will be officiating. Burial followed in the Old Anacoco Baptist Cemetery in Leesville.

Charles was born on June 1, 1938, in Leesville, Louisiana to his parents, Ivy Curly and Floy Hughes Underwood. He passed away on Monday, February 12, 2024, in Leesville.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents and wife, Sandra Daugherty Underwood.

Left to cherish his memory is his son, Charles “Bubba” Underwood (Lanette) of Leesville; daughters, Sherri Fisher (Keith) of Zachary, LA, and Julie Salter (Rickye) of West Monroe, LA; brother, Hoye Underwood (Ann) of Haslet, TX; grandchildren: Lacey Kivett (Robbie), Chloe Fisher, Jessica Cook (Patrick), Jacob Underwood (Jessica), Lauren Feller (Jarod), Savana Rutledge (Trey); and thirteen great grandchildren.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers were Lance Bass, Patrick Cook, Jarod Feller, Ken Hughes, Robert Kivett and Jacob Underwood.

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RONALD CLARK
October 20, 1967 – February 5, 2024
Service: February 17, 2024, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville at 10 a.m.

ANITA JAYNE JONES
July 11, 1945 – February 12, 2024
Service: Private at a later date

WADE EDWARD LASISTER
September 18, 1947 – February 9, 2024
Service: Private at a later date

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The Vernon Parish Police Jury held a committee meeting Monday, February 12, at 5 p.m. in the Police Jury Building.

The first order of business was to recognize District 12 Police Juror Kenny Haymon. Haymon was recently sworn in as president of the Police Jurors Association of Louisiana. He makes the fourth Vernon Parish Police Juror to be elected to the position. The others include the late Raymond Palmer, Sam Fulton, Jr., and Melvin Haymon.

The Equipment Committee approved a request from Districts 10, 11 and 12 to purchase a 2023 F-150 Crew Cab pickup truck. The vehicle was purchased on a state contract from Courtesy Ford for $35,374.00.

The Finance Committee recommended the renewal of preventative maintenance agreements with Mechanical Cooling Systems for the systems at the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office new jail and the old jail at the Courthouse Annex. Those contracts total $6,650.00. Invoices were also received by Meyer & Associates, Inc. for the Fal Road rehab project. Those invoices totaled $4,415.00.00.

Marvin Hilton of the Personnel Committee reported on recently terminated employees and four new hirings. Eddie Hall is a new part-time equipment operator in District 2. Johnathan Holloway is a new full-time equipment operator for District 5. He is joined in District 5 by Charles Able, recently hired as a full-time grader operator. Joseph Cryer was hired as a full-time foreman for Districts 10, 11 and 12.

The Road Maintenance and Construction Committee received a request from the Veron Parish School Board to construct a school bus turnaround on Johnson-Bailey Cemetery Road in District 5, Ward 7. The Vernon Parish Police Jury will continue to perform routine maintenance for the Village of Simpson and Town of Rosepine.

Bids for 2024 materials and supplies were opened January 23, 2024. The parish road manager reviewed them and recommended jury approval. There were 16 different bidders that provided the items. No bids were received from bridge materials and pilings. These items will be re-advertised by the Jury.

Jurors will hold a public hearing Monday, March 18, at 10 a.m. during a regular meeting to hear input on a proposed ordinance to change the name of Trailer Park Road in District 7 to Cornwell Road.

Numerous resolutions were discussed. One was to accept an agreement between the Vernon Parish Police Jury and Meyer & Associates, Inc. to address drainage problems at the rodeo arena facility. The Jury will partner with the USDA, Forestry Service, for road improvements to Bailey Road.

Jurors will discuss the amended 2023 budget and the proposed 2024 budget for the operation of the Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory Commission.

Before adjourning, the Jurors authorized payment of all invoices as authorized by the Finance Committee and authorized payment of all expenditures above the budgeted amount from ward maintenance/construction accounts.

The Vernon Parish Police Jury will hold its next meeting Tuesday, February 20, at 10 a.m. The move to Tuesday is due to the federal holiday of Presidents Day on Monday, February 19.

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The Leesville City Council met at 3 p.m. this past Monday in Leesville City Hall. A public hearing was held before the regular meeting on rezoning a property from C4 highway commercial district to C2 commercial district apartment district to allow for a retail tire shop. The move was approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission. There were no public comments.

City Council members heard ordinance 2 of 2024. It will pave the way for a new Anytime Fitness location on lower Third Street.

Resolutions were passed allowing Mayor Rick Allen to sign and submit the Community Water Enrichment Fund and Louisiana Government Assistance Program grant applications.

The City will enter into an agreement between owner and contractor for project delivery services with Pan American Engineers, LLC for the Ball Park lift station project funded by the Louisiana Office of Community Development Disaster Recovery Unit.

The City will purchase two vehicles for the Leesville Police Department. Council members also passed a resolution to make an emergency purchase of lights at the Leesville Recreation Complex.

A resolution was also passed authorizing the City of Leesville to enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with the Kingdom Center of DeRidder for the purpose of housing and providing programs and activities for youth and area residents at the new Leesville Events Center.

With the hiring of Pan American Engineers, LLC, the City can open bids on the Entrance Road sewer project. Bids will open February 26.

City bills this month were reported at $39,501.70. The City also received a payment request from S. Keel Leesville Flooring for additional $24,245.00 of flooring to be installed at the Leesville Events Center.

The next meeting of the Leesville City Council is scheduled for Monday, February 26 at 3 p.m.

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A funeral mass honoring the life of Jerry Dale dePerrodil was held on Monday, February 12,2024, at 11:00AM at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 604 S 5th Street, Leesville, LA. Burial followed at the Castor Cemetery, 2057 Slagle Road, Leesville, LA under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service.

Captain Jerry dePerrodil, a.k.a. DooDoo, was a man of loyalty, valor, warmth, sincerity, honor, strength, humility, charm, and above all: love of his family. And it was his loving wife and son who surrounded and supported him through his journey of ups and downs over the past year and a half. It was their unfailing devotion that created a loving cocoon in which he was allowed to peacefully pass from this life into the restful arms of Jesus in the early morning hours of February 7, 2024.

Jerry comes from a family of firecrackers, captivating story tellers, and fierce protectors. Born December 19, 1943, in Houston, TX, he was raised by his Mother, Ida “Nookie” Allen, and Stepfather, Papa Buck Allen, along with his siblings: Alyce, Joni, Mike, and Randy. He is reunited with those loving family members who have preceded him in death; Loyd (Father), Ida (Mother), Buck (Stepfather), Alyce (Sister), Mike (Brother), Gary (Son), Jeremy (Son), Gussie (Mother-in-Law), Robert (Father-in-Law)

From a young age, he loved the outdoors. Adventure and the exploration of what lay beyond the front porch called to his fearless soul. No unknown possibility, no “what if”, could hold him back from doing what he wanted to do, when and how he wanted to do it. And after the adventure was all said and done, boy did he have a story to tell, which usually ended up with him somehow being caught right in the middle of a fight, all thanks to the look on his face alone! His favorite line he loved telling was, “I never said nothin! They just looked at me and wanted to fight me!” He never backed down, he never accepted defeat, he always gave it his all, everything his heart allowed.

His vivacious and spirited heart called him to many places over the years. Jerry served our Nation on the USS Intrepid during his term of service as a Naval Officer in the United States Navy. He proudly told the story of how his heart led him to find the love of his life in a bar in Lake Charles, LA. Jerry and Bobbie, a.k.a. BeBe, made their forever home in Slagle, LA, where they raised their loving, hilarious, character-filled son, Dale.

Jerry devoted the next 42 years providing for his family as a Tow Boat Captain for Magnolia Marine Transport. Throughout his career, he mentored many men in the art of being a merchant marine.

In Jerry’s later years, he was blessed even more by the births of his grandchildren. He delighted in many simple pleasures but what he loved the most was spending quality time with his family. What he had, he so willingly wanted to share with others. To his compassionate wife, his adored son, and his grandchildren, he’s passed on the value of family, love of nature and animals, generosity, and a call to protect those less fortunate, love of country, and the peace of knowing that no matter what we do in life, God’s love is always there to welcome us back home.

He will be remembered by his surviving family: Bobbie (Wife); Dale (Son); Daughter-in-Laws: Donna, Crystal, Rebecca; Grandchildren: Brittany, Josh, Tiffany, Jeremy, Courtney, Taylor, Maggie Pearl, Robert Joseph; and four Great Grandchildren; Pallbearers: Chris O’Neal, Clayton Cobb, Richard Stanley, Bobby Bordelon, Tom Scott, Lee Lane; Honorary Pallbearers: Tow Boat Boys and the Super Grip Family; Most Bestest “Girlfriend”: Sabra McKneely Browning.

His “give it your all”, incredible life embodied this wisdom found from a note left in his handwriting: “Life is a Train. Some day we all have to get off.” His train ride ended peacefully here on earth. But, as soon as he took his final step off his earthly ride, was the very moment he stepped into the presence of our Heavenly Father. What a ride that must have been!

In lieu of flowers, Bobbie and Dale have requested donations be made to the Louisiana Lions Camp organization serving youth of Louisiana with respiratory disorders, special needs, juvenile diabetes, and childhood cancer.

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The Leesville Mayor’s Women’s Commission recently presented their February 2024 Civic Awards for Beautification to two Leesville citizens.

The residential winner was Mike and Daniela Bell located at 118 Whispering Pines Loop. Their front yard is currently adorned with Mardi Gras ornaments, but they enjoy decorating their yard for all the holidays of the year. Mrs. Bell, originally from Germany, said that in her country they have a celebration very similar to Mardi Gras, called Fasching, which is also celebrated the week before Ash Wednesday with parades and merriment. 

The commercial winner was the Vernon Parish Community Health Center located at 298 Nolan Trace. They are a federally qualified health center and, being relative newcomers to the area, are happy to welcome new patients. The entrance is decked out with decorations for the Mardi Gras season. 

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GALLERY ONE EIIIEVEN in Leesville has secured a grant for $8,000.00 from the State Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism for a mural project to be installed on the end of Classroom Building “B” facing the Leesville Art Park. The funding comes from the “Percent for Art” program administered by CRT. A Call to Artists was issued in August of 2023, and artist Liz Cornett of Forest Hill, Louisiana, was chosen to execute the project.

Ms. Cornett is an experienced muralist, and she will be working with art students at West Leesville Elementary for the final design, with the theme “Louisiana Wildflowers and Creatures.” Her murals can be found in the downtown area of Alexandria, at private homes, and in other central Louisiana areas.

Senator Mike Reese commented, “I’m thankful for GALLERY ONE EIIIEVEN always pursuing every opportunity to expose more students to the arts. This is a great partnership between the state, students, and local artists. I look forward to seeing the finished product.”

The artist will begin working with the art students this month, and the mural will be completed no later than May 15, 2024.

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Funeral services for Linda Marie Westmoreland were held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at 2:00PM at Jeane’s Funeral Service with Bro. James Kay officiating. Burial followed at Sycamore Cemetery, Burkeville, Texas, under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service.

Linda Marie Matherne Westmoreland was born on September 16, 1947, in Lockport, Louisiana, to Ivey and Yvonne Matherne. She passed away on February 8, 2024, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, at the age of 76. She lived in the Toledo Bend area for many years and had a great love for fishing. She was a talented painter and enjoyed working out in her flower garden. She also enjoyed traveling and going on cruises with her late husband, Charles. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Charles Westmoreland; brother, Troy Matherne; and grandson, Joey Brittain.

She is survived by her children, Jimmy Lee of Burkeville, Texas, Janie Vice and husband, Chris, of Merryville, Louisiana, Dawn Brittain and husband, John, of Anacoco, and Curtis Bernard of Monroe, Louisiana; brother, Robert Matherne of Minnesota; sister, Geraldine Tilley of Burr Ferry; grandchildren, Angie Armstrong and husband Wayne, Michelle Medley and husband Keith, Misty Keen, and Kimberly Wilson and husband Joey; 7 great grandchildren; special friend, Robert Young; and a host of extended family and friends.

 

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By Rickey Robertson

Spring is getting nearer each day, and everyone is wanting to get outside. Everyone is looking for some type of entertainment that is family oriented. During the spring we see teams out on the baseball diamond training for the upcoming baseball season. Baseball is known as “the great American past time,” and it is a great family game to enjoy. Did you know that during the mighty mill runs beginning in the early 1900’s that ended in the 1930’s, there once was a mighty baseball organization known as “The Sawdust League”?

During the mill run in our area, each mill town and lumber company had a baseball team. Here in the old sawmill town of Peason where I reside, the Peavy Wilson Lumber Company sponsored the local team known as the “Peason Bulldogs.” This team played other mill towns and even some towns without a mill. Peason played mill town teams from Kurthwood, Alco, Fullerton, Hutton, Longleaf, Fisher, Victoria, and others, and even played the Louisiana city teams of Many, Zwolle, Pleasant Hill, and Hornbeck. At the end
of the baseball season there was even a championship game — yes, a Sawdust League World Series! These baseball games were great drawing cards in each location where the teams played, and families came out to enjoy the Great American Pastime. There was great competition among these teams and towns.

The baseball players who played in the Sawdust League were very different from today’s baseball players. The men on the mill town teams worked each day either in the log woods or in the mills. Games were played on Saturday so that the mill town residents could attend these games and the ball players were off duty. These players played for the love of the game, and they were great sportsmen. Today baseball players and other sports players have more love for money than they do the game. And they don’t have a job to go to each day as the mill workers did.

Peason always had great teams with lots of support from the community. And do you know what? Peason had several championship teams that played in the Sawdust League! Sadly, as the mill runs ended and the mill towns closed, so also came an end to the Sawdust League. But this is another piece of our local history that we can now remember.

Did one of your ancestors play baseball for a mill team? Remember the teams our ancestors played for, and I will remember the chant “GO PEASON BULLDOGS!”

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Rickey Robertson retired from Louisiana State Police and upon his retirement became a historical researcher/writer for Stephen F. Austin State University. Rickey is a proud Peason Ridge Heritage Family member and currently is Pastor of Cold Springs Baptist Church in Anacoco, Louisiana. Rickey has written many articles on the Louisiana Maneuvers of 1941 and speaks to groups on this great historical event that affected our state and nation. He and his wife reside in Peason, Louisiana.

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Vernon Parish was represented well this past Friday and Saturday at the Association of Christian Educators of Louisiana Basketball State Championships held in Pineville Louisiana.

The #2 Faith Training Christian Academy Patriots (16-3) lost a heartbreaker to #3 Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School (10-4). The final score was 43-35. The Patriots handled the Eagles twice earlier in the year and putting them away a third consecutive time proved to be too much.

The Patriots had a few too many turnovers early in the first quarter but were able to claw back and were only trailing by 3 entering the second half.

The Patriots found themselves in foul trouble and the game started slipping away during the 3rd quarter. Halfway through the 4th period, the Patriots began to press which was effective and brought the game back within reach but a late 3 by Bishop Noland sealed their fate and the Patriots went home after their third straight appearance in the semi-finals.

The ACEL league also holds a JV end of season tournament in which the young up-and-coming Lady Patriots took home the runner-up title with a score of 34-21. Long-time head coach Walter Young has a talented group of young ladies poised to be a yearly contender for the varsity title for the next 2-4 years.

 

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The journey to Marsh Madness begins this week for Vernon Parish girls’ basketball teams. The LHSAA girls’ state title games will be decided February 26 through March 2 in Hammond, Louisiana.

Leesville (20-10) was seeded #15 in Division II non-select schools. The Lady Cats lost their last district game to Lagrange 52-48. They will host #18 ranked Minden in the bi-district round of the state playoffs Thursday, February 15 at 6 p.m.

Rosepine (27-5) earned the #1 seed in Division III non-select schools. They received a bye in the first round. Rosepine beat Oak Hill 65-54 to finish the regular season. The Lady Eagles will play the winner of #16 North Webster and #17 St. Helena College and Career Academy.

Hicks (31-3) is ranked #1 in the Division V non-select schools and received a bye in the first round of the playoffs. Hicks beat Pitkin 60-48 to end their regular season. The Lady Pirates will play the winner of #16 Phoenix and #17 Calvin in the regional round.

Anacoco (30-5) earned the #3 seed in Division V non-select schools. They get a bye in the first round. The Lady Indians closed out the regular season, beating Oak Hill 52-41. In the regional round Anacoco will face the winner of #14 Quitman and #19 Florien.

Hornbeck (22-12) is seeded #10 in Division V non-select schools. Hornbeck will host #23 Evans (15-21) Thursday, February 15 at 6 p.m. Hornbeck beat Simpson to end the regular season 58-51. Hornbeck and Evans split games in district play this year. Hornbeck won the first game, 47-41; Evans the second meeting, 52-44. They meet Thursday at 6 p.m. at Hornbeck.

Pitkin (23-16) earned the #8 seed in Division V non-select schools. The Lady Tigers closed out the regular season with wins over St. Edmond 72-49 and Elizabeth 70-31. Pitkin will host #25 Zwolle at 6:30 at Pitkin on Thursday, February 15.

Simpson (27-9) was seeded #9 in Division V non-select schools. They will host #24 Starks in the bi-district round Thursday, February 15, at 6 p.m.

Despite their record of 12-18, the Pickering girls are ranked #13 in Division IV non-select schools. The Lady Red Devils beat Avoyelles to close out the regular season 36-21. Pickering will host #20 South Plaquemine in the bi-district round of the playoffs Thursday, February 15, at 6 p.m.

BOYS ENTER LAST WEEK OF SEASON

Vernon Parish boys’ basketball enters the final week of the regular season. Playoff pairings will be announced Monday, and most Vernon Parish schools will make the playoffs.

Anacoco’s 32-7 record is the best in the area. They defeated Oak Hill 73-36 last week and will tune up for the playoffs by visiting Pickering Friday night at 6 o’clock.

Pickering beat Avoyelles 61-34 to go 21-9 on the season, entering their final district game against Menard Tuesday night; score unavailable at press time.

Leesville lost at DeRidder in a district game 60-58 last week. They played at Washington Marion last night; score unavailable at press time.

Pitkin lost to Elizabeth last week 66-37. They also lost to 3A Westlake on Monday night 62-51. Pitkin hosted Weston last night; score unavailable at press time.

The Hicks Pirates fell to 5A powerhouse Natchitoches Central last week 81-46. They played at Singer last night; score unavailable at press time.

In District 3C, Simpson lost to Hornbeck 57-44 last week. They hosted Hackberry last night; score unavailable at press time. Hornbeck closed out the regular season with a 12-20 record. Evans lost to Pitkin 68-33 to finish their regular season 11-23.

Rosepine fell to Oakdale 100-78 last week. They played at Glenmora last night; score unavailable at press time.

The boys’ Marsh Madness state tournament is March 4-9 at Burton Coliseum in Lake Charles.

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Rodney Boswell, Lori Cumberland, Kim Boler, Bettina Troquille and Charlene Young would like to introduce their new company and exceptional team members to the Natchitoches community and surrounding areas.

IHS Group, an experienced tax and accounting firm, has four locations open in Natchitoches, Many, Pineville, and Leesville.

“At IHS Group, we are committed to extending our assistance to individuals and companies, wherever they may be located,” said Boswell. He explained that he’s been building toward this new business venture for years.

With over 80 years of accumulated experience in the tax and accounting services field and 30 years of experience as a leadership coach, the IHS Group team is a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re looking to improve your tax strategies, streamline your accounting processes, or enhance your leadership skills, IHS Group is here to guide you. This includes tax planning and strategy consulting, accounting services, payroll services, business consulting and leadership coaching.

“As an Enrolled Agent, I have the opportunity to help people and businesses maximize their tax benefits, ensuring they keep more of their hard-earned money,” said Kimbra Boler, EA.

At IHS Group, the vision is clear: We exist to inspire individuals to reach their full potential. We’re here to team up with entrepreneurs and business owners, helping them scale their business, save on taxes, and accumulate wealth. Our mission is to guide you through the intricacies of the accounting and tax industry while providing invaluable leadership coaching and consulting services.

“Rodney’s leadership skills are exceptional. He is invested in his team’s well-being and growth. He encourages everyone he meets to strive to reach their full potential,” said Catherine Whittington.

“We understand that your needs are unique, and we’re here to provide the right solutions to help you achieve your business goals,” Boswell added.

To get started and schedule a consultation TODAY, go online to www.ishgroup.co or call 318-302-0879.

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The University Programming Council and The Dear School of Creative and Performing Arts at Northwestern State University will present a Taylor Swift Tribute concert featuring NSU alumna Sarah Jessica Rhodes on Thursday, February 15 at 6 p.m. in the A.A. Fredericks Auditorium. NSU students are admitted free with a current student I.D. Tickets for the general public are $25 and are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/twist-on-taylor-tickets-810202396177?aff=oddtdtcreator. 

Rhodes has been portraying Swift in her show “Twist on Taylor” for more than a decade and did her show in Las Vegas for the first time last year.

Fans call “Twist on Taylor” “the next best thing” when it comes to a Swift-themed concert. This live music experience includes a troupe of top-notch Las Vegas musicians and dancers. Hear all the hits, as well as some of your favorite deep cuts from all of Taylor’s eras. Whether you are a dedicated “Swiftie” or just a music-lover, you are sure to be entertained by this high-energy performance.

Rhodes is a singer, dancer, actor, MC, and choreographer in Las Vegas. She has appeared in a number of Las Vegas shows including “Raiding the Rock Vault” as a dancer and singer; as a swing for the Green Fairy character in “Absinthe;” as Ginger Spice the “Spice Wannabe” Spice Girls revival at Excalibur’s Thunderland Showroom; and in her own band SJ & The Ruckus.

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Funeral services for Johann Sebastian Weeks, Sr., 67, of Leesville, were held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, February 11, 2024, in the Harvest Temple C.O.G.I.C of Leesville with Pastor Roosevelt Harris officiating. Burial followed in the Pine Grove Cemetery in Leesville.

Johann Sebastian Weeks, Sr. was born on November 16, 1956, in Waco, Texas. He was the 3rd child of 8 to the Late Superintendent Tom and Lady Gertrude-Wright Weeks, who preceded him in death.

Johann, affectionately called “Joe Joe”, was endowed with a special gift of music and playing the guitar even at an early age. He traveled the state of Louisiana, playing at revivals, conferences, Sunday services, conventions, special events, and more. His gift made room for him and opened many doors for him. He really loved playing his guitar and giving God glory and praise. He could make that guitar talk. Joe Joe also sang and played in their gospel group, The Echoes of Harmony. He had a bass voice that could rattle the windows. Many people were blessed and encouraged through his music, his kind words, and his love that was demonstrated so profoundly to countless people everywhere he went. He had a mind that was mission and ministry and gave generously to many. He sent clothing overseas, toys, finances, and food to help those in need and even sponsored many by paying for their college tuition; and they graduated with honors.

Joe Joe met Josephina Ante 20 years ago–the love of his life–and five years later they were united in holy matrimony on February 14, 2009, Valentine’s Day. Of their union, 4 children were born: Janiella, Angelica, Tom and Jairo. He also was blessed many years before with Shintika, Johann Jr. (Joey), and Janisha. What a beautiful family! He, Joe Joe, had a passion for driving trucks so he went to school, got his certificate, and made a career of driving trucks for over 3 decades, with joy. Joe Joe accepted Christ at an early age, but rededicated his life to Christ in 2023, and he was sold out for Christ and determined to make Heaven his eternal home.

Joe Joe was a man of extraordinary faith and trusted God through all the good, the bad, the failing health, and whatever life threw his way. His favorite words were “I’m alright”, “Yep” and “Excellent” to any question asked about his health. He never complained no matter how much pain he was in and encouraged others through his sickness. He was loved by so many people, and he demonstrated love to so many people.

Joe Joe passed from this life to a brand new life with Jesus on Sunday, February 4, 2024, at 1:30 in the afternoon at Rapides Hospital, surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly.

He is preceded in death by two brothers, Elder Kenneth Weeks Sr. and John Bell.

He leaves to cherish beautiful memories his loving wife, Josephina Weeks; children: Shintika Shields (Fiance Adam), Johann Weeks Jr, Janisha Weeks, Janiella Weeks, Angelica Weeks, Tom Weeks and Jairo Weeks; brothers: Michael Weeks, Paul Weeks Sr. (Rhonda), Tom Bell; sisters: Charlotte Williams (Lavon) of Leesville, Marian Weeks of Leesville, Cassandra Conerly (Jim) of Red Oak Texas, Monica Leonard (Joe) of Leesville, Ruby Weeks of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Alkaline Bell, Mozella Bell, and Sami Bell; grandchildren: Adam Hickman Jr., Keon and Naomi; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, one uncle preceded in death, Bishop Harold Wright Jr, (Wanda), and one living uncle, Pastor Paul C. Wright (Frankie) of Winnfield, Louisiana, his church family Greater Wayside Temple and House of Faith C.O.G.I. C. pastored by Elder Roosevelt Harris Jr. and First Lady Louise Harris. Rest in the arms of Jesus; you fought a good fight, kept the faith, and finished your course, now gone to receive your reward.

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By Billy Crawford

During the Great Depression and New Deal Era, the Leesville Post Office was among hundreds built by the Treasury Department.

In 1937, this building was constructed by the F.P. Farnsworth Construction Co., Inc. of New Orleans at a cost of—hold your hat— $65,000.  Prior to 1937, the first “Postal Station” in Leesville, established in 1873, was moved in and out of private buildings many times over the years.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal Program sponsored several arts programs to get artists back to work and restore confidence in a nation facing 23 percent unemployment in 1933. Throughout the United States on public buildings, including on post office walls–large and small–were scenes reflecting America’s history and way of life.

A primary objective was to boost the morale of American people suffering from the effects of the Depression by depicting uplifting subjects the people knew and loved.

There is an impressive piece of art located above the Postmaster’s door in the lobby of the Leesville Post Office: six cast sand stones of a woman opening a letter and a man holding a hoe. The artist is Duncan R. Ferguson, who was born in Shanghai, China, to Scott-Canadian educators. He graduated from Boston Day School and summa cum laude from Harvard University. What a gifted artist!

In the 1930’s, Louisiana Governor Huey Long recruited Ferguson to head the Art Department at LSU.

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Graveside services for Gladys Marie Carpenter will be held on Thursday, February 15, 2024, in Old Leesville Cemetery, at 12:00 PM under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Visitation will be held on Thursday at Jeane’s Funeral Service from 10:00 -11:30AM.

Gladys Marie Carpenter was born on March 6, 1932, in Ironton, Ohio, to Griffith and Goldie Massie. She passed away on February 11, 2024, in Leesville, LA at the age of 91. Gladys was a military spouse and traveled all over the United States. She loved her family and especially enjoyed cooking Thanksgiving dinner for everyone. Her hobbies included bingo, pool, dancing and listening to music. She truly enjoyed playing pool and was part of the APA league. She was a member of The All Americans team and her nickname was “The Secret Weapon”. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Griffith and Goldie Massie; husbands, James Carpenter and Jery Morehart; and daughter, Diana Morehart.

She is survived by her children, Thomas BoBo Jr. (Rosie), Karen Williams (Randy), James Carpenter (Kathy), Griff Carpenter (Sandy) and Chris Carpenter (Suzanne); 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

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JERRY DALE DEPERRODIL
December 19, 1943 – February 7, 2024
Service: February 12, 2024, at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Leesville at 11 a.m.

LINDA MARIE WESTMORELAND
September 16, 1947 – February 8, 2024
Service: February 13, 2024, at Jeane’s Funeral Service in Leesville at 2 p.m.

JOHANN SEBASTIAN WEEKS
November 16, 1956 – February 4, 2024
Service: February 11, 2024, in the Harvest Temple C.O.G.I.C. of Leesville at 2 p.m.

GLADYS MARIE CARPENTER
March 6, 1932 – February 11, 2024
Service: February 15, 2024, in the Old Leesville Cemetery at 12 p.m.

IVY CHARLES UNDERWOOD
June 1, 1938 – February 12, 2024
Service: February 15, 2024, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville at 2 p.m.

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