Louisiana’s youth employment certificate process has changed and is now managed by Louisiana Works.

Under the updated process, employers are responsible for issuing work permits and verifying a minor’s age. Schools will no longer issue work permits or employment certificates.

Employers must use the new Louisiana Works Employment Certificate.

Louisiana Works also reminded schools that access to the Louisiana Works Employment Certificate System will end July 24, 2026.

The update is intended to provide important information for parents, students, employers and school partners preparing for youth employment.

Questions may be directed to EmploymentCertificate@la.gov or by calling 225-342-2683.

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July 22 marks one of the most famous days in American crime history.

On July 22, 1934, notorious bank robber John Dillinger was shot and killed by federal agents outside the Biograph Theater in Chicago after leaving a movie. His death ended one of the nation’s most highly publicized manhunts during the Great Depression.

Dillinger became one of America’s most infamous outlaws after a string of bank robberies, jail escapes and confrontations with law enforcement across the Midwest. Newspapers closely followed his crimes, turning him into a household name at a time when many Americans were struggling through economic hardship.

Federal authorities tracked Dillinger to the theater after receiving information from an informant. As he exited the building, agents attempted to arrest him. When he tried to flee, he was shot and killed.

The event marked a significant moment in the history of federal law enforcement. The pursuit of Dillinger helped elevate the public profile of what would become the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) under Director J. Edgar Hoover and led to increased attention on interstate crime-fighting efforts.

More than 90 years later, Dillinger’s story continues to be the subject of books, documentaries and films, making July 22 a notable date in American history.

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In the early months of 1915, New York policemen knew unsavory characters had been living rent free in the dilapidated and seemingly abandoned building across the street from their station house in Brooklyn.  Finally, in late April, construction workers began demolishing the old building.  Only then did the policemen realize the scope of their problem.  As each floor was systematically disassembled, the unwelcome tenants just moved closer to street level.  The tenants that left the building took up residence in adjoining buildings or lived in the street.  They even began occupying the police station itself.  When policemen chased one away, it seemed that two or three more would take its place.  The New York Times reported, “Policemen who have faced all kinds of danger unflinchingly do not hesitate to say that it makes them feel decidedly uncomfortable.” That was an understatement.  The problem with the unwelcome tenants was out of control.  It affected all of the policemen in one way or another.  Some were unable to eat properly.  Others were unable to get a good night’s sleep.  Their work performance waned.  The whole area was going to pot.  The problem was not relegated to a single station house.  Other New York police station houses including Morrisania Police Station, Alexander Avenue station, and West 152d Street station were facing similar crises.               

In May 1915, the New York City Police Department added more than 100 new officers from a certain local tribe whose sole purpose was to rid their areas of the unwanted tenants by any means necessary.  A team of new officers at the Morrisania Police Station was led by an officer named Peter whom that station’s Lieutenant Peter Brady had adopted and named after himself years earlier.  In some cases, the police department filled the position by using the local homeless population, which solved two problems at the same time.  At the Alexander Avenue station, one new officer was not only homeless but nameless as well.  At the time of the New Yok Times’s report, the other officers at the Alexander Avenue station were trying to come up with a name for him.  One of the new officers at the Brooklyn Station who was described as being large and battle-scarred took the “by any means necessary” portion of his orders to heart.  The New York Times reported, “No count was kept of the number of [them] which [he] dispatched, but those he failed to slay he routed completely from the station house, so terrifying them that, according to the police, [none] since has had the temerity to show his nose in the place.”  With the help of the new officers, the crisis of the New York Police Department was resolved.  Why have you not heard of this murdering cop or his fellow officers who certainly performed similar atrocities against the unwelcome tenants?  They were from, as the New York Times reported, the “Feline Tribe.”  Those police officers and the unwelcome tenants were respectively… cats and rats.        

Source: New York Times, May 7, 1915, p. 23.

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Marida Laura McDaniel
September 4, 1975 ~ July 17, 2026
Visitation: Thursday, July 23 at the church from 10:00 AM until time of service
Services: Thursday, July 23 at 1:00 PM at Tullos United Pentecostal Church

LaSalle Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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The following report displays all bookings made at the LaSalle Parish Jail between the dates listed. These arrests were made by LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office and surrounding local and state agencies. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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As the start of a new school year approaches, the LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Jena Police Department are once again joining forces to help local students through their annual “Fill the Cruiser – Back to School Supply Drive.”

The community-wide initiative encourages residents to donate school supplies that will be distributed to students throughout LaSalle Parish before classes begin.

A LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol unit has been parked outside the Jena Walmart, where the vehicle’s back window has been left partially open to allow shoppers to place newly purchased school supplies directly into the cruiser.

All donated supplies will be collected and distributed among every school in LaSalle Parish, helping ensure students have the tools they need for a successful school year.

For residents living in the Olla, Urania, and Tullos areas who may not be able to travel to Jena, donations can also be dropped off at the LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office substation in Olla.

Sheriff Lane Windham and Jena Police Chief Scott McLendon are encouraging the community to support the effort and help make a positive impact on local students and teachers.

The first donation of the campaign was made by Dee Daniels, who officially kicked off the supply drive by placing school supplies into the waiting patrol vehicle.

Officials expressed their appreciation for the community’s continued generosity and support.

“We really appreciate everyone’s support for our schools,” the agencies said in a joint announcement.

The “Fill the Cruiser” campaign has become a popular back-to-school tradition in LaSalle Parish, giving residents an easy way to help ensure students across the parish begin the new school year equipped with essential classroom supplies.

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The Jena Police Department is urging residents to remain vigilant after receiving reports of a scam involving individuals falsely claiming to represent Publishers Clearing House (PCH).

According to police, scammers are contacting victims by phone, text message, email, and social media, claiming they have won a large cash prize or lottery. The fraudsters then tell victims they must pay taxes, processing fees, or other charges upfront before their winnings can be released.

Law enforcement emphasizes that these claims are completely fraudulent.

How the Scam Works

Scammers often attempt to create excitement by telling victims they have won thousands—or even millions—of dollars. Before the supposed prize can be claimed, however, victims are instructed to send money through gift cards, wire transfers, payment apps, or even by mailing cash.

The Jena Police Department reminds the public that legitimate sweepstakes and prize organizations never require winners to pay upfront fees to receive their winnings.

How to Protect Yourself

Police encourage residents to follow these safety tips:

Never send money to claim a prize or lottery winnings.

Never provide personal or financial information, including bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, or other sensitive information to someone claiming you’ve won.

Hang up or stop communicating if something doesn’t feel right.

Talk with a trusted family member or friend before sending money or sharing personal information.

Help Protect Others

The Jena Police Department is asking residents to share the warning with family, friends, and neighbors—especially older adults, who are often targeted by prize and lottery scams.

Officials remind the public to remember one simple rule:

“If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a scam or has questions about suspicious communications is encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency before sending money or providing personal information. Staying informed and reporting scams can help prevent others in the community from becoming victims.

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A few scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible Wednesday afternoon, but the forecast quickly turns dry and increasingly hot as LaSalle Parish heads into a sunny weekend and the start of next week.

According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will climb from the upper 80s on Wednesday into the mid-90s by the weekend, with little chance of rain after midweek.

Wednesday

Wednesday will be partly sunny with a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms developing after 1 p.m. High temperatures will reach around 89 degrees, with west winds between 5 and 10 mph.

Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 71 degrees as southwest winds become calm during the evening.

Thursday

Thursday brings mostly sunny skies and warmer temperatures, with a high near 92 degrees. Light southwest winds will develop during the afternoon. Thursday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 73 degrees.

Friday

Sunny skies continue Friday with afternoon highs reaching 94 degrees. Friday night will be mostly clear, with overnight temperatures around 74 degrees.

Weekend Outlook

The first full weekend of the forecast will feature abundant sunshine and intensifying summer heat.

Saturday: Sunny and hot with a high near 95 degrees. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a low around 75 degrees.

Sunday: Sunny and hot with a high near 96 degrees, followed by a mostly clear night with a low around 75 degrees.

Looking Ahead

The hot weather pattern continues into Monday with sunny skies and another afternoon high near 96 degrees.

Five-Day Forecast at a Glance

Wednesday: Partly sunny, high 89° | 30% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms

Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, low 71°

Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 92°

Thursday Night: Partly cloudy, low 73°

Friday: Sunny, high 94°

Friday Night: Mostly clear, low 74°

Saturday: Sunny and hot, high 95°

Saturday Night: Mostly clear, low 75°

Sunday: Sunny and hot, high 96°

Sunday Night: Mostly clear, low 75°

Monday: Sunny and hot, high 96°

With only a slight chance of rain on Wednesday, residents can expect several days of dry weather and increasing heat. Be sure to stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and take frequent breaks if spending extended time outdoors. The combination of high temperatures and humidity will make conditions feel even hotter during the afternoon hours, so extra caution is advised for outdoor workers, athletes, children, and pets.

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Motorists traveling on U.S. Highway 165 in LaSalle Parish should prepare for daytime traffic delays as the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) begins a roadway improvement project later this month.

According to DOTD, alternating lane closures will be in effect Monday, July 20, through approximately Wednesday, September 30, 2026, along US 165 from the Grant Parish line to the Caldwell Parish line.

The temporary lane closures will allow crews to complete a moving operation project involving roadway striping and the installation of rumble strips. Work is expected to take place during daylight hours only, with no nighttime work anticipated.

DOTD officials said no detour will be necessary, as traffic will be maintained through alternating lane closures while construction is underway.

Motorists are encouraged to plan for possible delays and use extra caution when traveling through the work zone.

Project Information

Location: US 165 from the Grant Parish line to the Caldwell Parish line

Dates: July 20 – approximately September 30, 2026

Work: Roadway striping and rumble strip installation

Traffic Impact: Alternating daytime lane closures only

Detour: None

DOTD reminds drivers to reduce their speed, remain alert, and watch for construction workers, equipment, and changing traffic patterns throughout the duration of the project.

For additional travel information, motorists can call 511, visit 511LA.org, or check the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development’s travel resources for the latest road conditions and construction updates.

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The Louisiana Folklife Center at Northwestern State University will present a traditional music and dance informance with Native Nations Intertribal at on Friday, July 17 at 6 p.m. the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum at 800 Front St. in Natchitoches. The event will be free and open to the public. 

The event will feature members of Native Nations Intertribal, who will symbolically open the 46th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival with Native American music and dance. Native Nations Intertribal will engage in a discussion of their traditions with NSU Professor of Anthropology Dr. Hiram “Pete” Gregory, an expert on Southeastern Native American tribes and culture. 

“We are so grateful to Native Nations Intertribal for so generously sharing their cultural knowledge with us,” said Dr. Shane Rasmussen, professor of English and director of the Louisiana Folklife Center at Northwestern State University. “Attendees at this event will have the opportunity to experience some of the most beautiful music and dance traditions in the world.” 

Native Nations Intertribal is an all-Native American song and dance troupe dedicated to sharing the beauty, diversity and living traditions of Indigenous peoples across the United States. For over 25 years, it has proudly performed at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, where the troupe honors their ancestors and educates audiences from around the world through the power of their songs, dances and stories. The group is composed of approximately 15-18 dancers and five singers, representing more than 10 tribal nations including Alabama-Coushatta, Coushatta, Southern Cheyenne, Mescalero Apache and Chickasaw, among others. Each performance is a celebration of these cultures, an opportunity to showcase the rich traditions that have been passed down through generations while building understanding and respect among all peoples. 

Native Nations Intertribal will participate in the Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival on July 18. In honor of the 2026 Festival theme, “America the Beautiful,” the Festival will feature the traditional music of the nation – blues, gospel, Cajun, Celtic, country, bluegrass and zydeco on three stages of music as well as in the Magale Recital Hall. Over 70 traditional crafts persons from throughout the state will display their crafts, handcrafting their work during the festival. 

Held in air-conditioned Prather Coliseum, the Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival features three stages of live music, Louisiana cuisine food vendors, the Louisiana State Fiddle Championship, dance lessons, music informances, narrative sessions, on-site demonstrations and more. Admission to this family friendly event is $10 for an all-day all-event pass, with children 12 and under admitted free all day. For more information, call the Louisiana Folklife Center at (318) 357-4332, email folklife@nsula.edu, or go to https://www.nsula.edu/folklife/. 

The event is sponsored by the Louisiana Folklife Center and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest History Museum and is in partnership with the City of Natchitoches. Support for the Festival is provided by grants from the Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc., the Louisiana Division of the Arts Decentralized Arts Fund Program, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission, the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau, 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. 

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By Jim Rhodes, Special to the Journal

We all honor the events of June 6, 1944. It was a monumental task and should be recognized for the bravery and sacrifices of all involved on that day. It was the beginning of the end of Hitler’s Thousand Year Reich. It would be another year to finish it but we did and the world rejoiced. But there was another completely different war taking place in the Pacific theatre.

The United States military, along with Australia, England and a few others were fighting the Imperial Japanese in the Pacific. Beach landings such as Normandy were happening on a more frequent basis. At Normandy 160,000 soldiers hit the beaches on that famous day. Casualties were horrendous. Too many killed, maimed and injured (2,500 killed in action, 5,000 injured and an untold number of missing). In comparison on July 21, 1944, 65,000 hit the beach on Guam, spearheaded by the United States Marines, United States Army and our allies. The staggering results of that landing were 1,718 killed and 6,000 wounded.

I take up this comparison not from a historical perspective but from a personal one. You see I happened to be quite familiar with a participant in the Pacific Theatre. He was Private First Class Joseph Bernard Rhodes USMC Co D 1St Bn (Pioneers) 19th Marines Third Marine Division.

He was never one to talk about those days, as many of “Our Greatest Generation” participants, chose not to. On one particular day back when nothing was digital I had received my National Geographic magazine with its coveted fold out map. This particular issue was entitled “The Pacific Theatre”. As I had the map spread out on the kitchen table my Father walks in the side door asking what I was doing. I explained in short detail; he walked up standing behind me and started detailing his 3 year adventure. He pointed to each island that he had been to and explained very briefly what had happened and why he was there. When he got to Guam his only comment was “and that’s when I got to come home.”

There were no other comments after that. I sensed that there would be no questions or answers after that. Everything had gotten put back in that mental box and locked away.

Guam, what was so important about that island, aside from the strategic placement, it was an American Territory until December 10, 1941 when the Imperial Japanese captured it.

Later in life I started doing a little research on my Dad’s role in this part of history. The most intriguing part was trying to understand what one particular word meant “PIONEER”. There is no clear meaning as it is no longer used. But following that trail the best I could manage was that in today’s military jargon he was a combat engineer. Ask today’s military people and they give you this description that has no bearing on the 1940’s. Basically from what I could piece together here is my definition.

USMC PIONEER (n): Operates as member of crew of specially trained troops in constructing and repairing roads and bridges, removing natural and man-made obstacles to facilitate movement of friendly forces, executing demolitions, and creating man-made obstacles to prevent or slow advance of enemy force. My Dad’s training records indicate that he was qualified on most heavy equipment and specialized in putting potable water systems in place. His actual classification was part of the 3 man crew for heavy machine gun Browning M1919.

My Dad hit the beaches of Guam on the initial wave on July 21st. He was wounded on July 22nd and evacuated to a hospital ship to start his journey home to begin building a “normal” life. But he was reminded every day that he took a step of that hidden part of his life. I could see the physical pain that stayed as a reminder but I often wonder about the mental pain so many of those guys carried with them. I thought us as a family lived a normal life. That perspective changed as I grew older. I know I was loved as a child and throughout my life. But the words were never spoken by him or me until too late in life. I remember the phone call as clear as yesterday. He apologized for the personal troubles his actions had cased in my life and said he wanted me to know that he loved me. After shedding tears with a sense of relief I told him that I was proud to have been by his side and that I had always loved him and even more now. He passed shortly after that and finally found peace after the early 1940’s.

So when we pause to honor those who gave more than enough for us please honor all who have defended us and our way of life not just the ones from that particular event. REMEMBER THEM ALL.

A Brief History of the Invasion of Guam

The Battle of Guam, codenamed W-Day, commenced on July 21, 1944, as a vital piece of the American campaign to recapture territory lost to the Japanese Empire early in World War II. Japan had captured the U.S. territory on December 10, 1941, just days after the attack on Pearl Harbor, subjecting the local Chamorro population to a brutal occupation.

Reclaiming the island was strategically paramount for the Allies. Guam’s large size and deep-water harbors made it an ideal base for upcoming operations against the Philippines and Taiwan, while its airfields would put Japan within range of the new American B-29 Superfortress bombers.

The assault began with an intense, multi-day naval and aerial bombardment to soften Japanese defenses. When the 3rd Marine Division, the 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, and the Army’s 77th Infantry Division finally hit the western beaches on W-Day, they faced fierce resistance from roughly 18,500 dug-in Japanese defenders. Despite steep limestone cliffs and heavily fortified machine-gun positions, Allied forces secured the beachheads. After weeks of brutal, close-quarters jungle warfare, heavy nighttime counterattacks, and massive casualties on both sides, the island was officially declared secure on August 10, 1944.

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The LaSalle High School Tiger Band is preparing for an exciting new chapter as Myles Schexnayder steps into the role of band director for both LaSalle Junior High and LaSalle Senior High Schools.

Known to his students as “Mr. S,” Schexnayder recently welcomed students, families, and supporters to the Tiger Band program and shared his excitement about meeting everyone as preparations begin for the 2026-2027 school year.

Students, parents, alumni, and community members are invited to attend a “Meet the Band Director” gathering on:

Date: Thursday, July 16

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Location: LaSalle High School Auditorium

The event will give families an opportunity to meet Schexnayder, ask questions about the upcoming school year, and learn more about the Tiger Band program.

“I can’t wait to meet all of you,” Schexnayder said in announcing the gathering.

Summer Band Camp Begins July 20

Preparations for marching season will officially begin with Summer Band Camp, scheduled for July 20 through July 31.

Camp will be held Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until noon.

Students are encouraged to come prepared for outdoor rehearsals by wearing:

Cool, school-appropriate clothing

Tennis shoes suitable for marching

No Crocs or sandals

An extra pair of socks—and possibly shoes—as morning grass is often wet

Recruiting Returning and New Members

Schexnayder is also encouraging current band members and supporters to reach out to former students who may be considering returning to the program.

He hopes to welcome as many musicians as possible when band camp begins.

“We can have a full house come the 20th,” he said.

Open Door for Students and Families

Before camp begins, Schexnayder plans to spend time in the band room over the coming days and welcomes students and parents to stop by, introduce themselves, and ask questions.

With a new director, a community meet-and-greet, and summer band camp just around the corner, excitement is building for the 2026-2027 LaSalle High School Tiger Band as it prepares for another year of music, school spirit, and excellence.

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Parents and guardians planning for the upcoming school year are reminded that a Bus Transportation Request must be completed for students who will ride a school bus during the 2026-2027 school year.

According to LaSalle Parish Schools, all parents of students who plan to use district bus transportation are required to submit a transportation request before the start of the school year.

The request can be completed online or by scanning the QR code provided by the school district.

School officials encourage families to submit their transportation requests as soon as possible to help the Transportation Department finalize bus routes and ensure students are assigned to the appropriate bus before classes begin.

Completing the form in advance will help provide a smoother start to the school year and allow the district to better plan for safe and efficient transportation services.

Parents who have not yet submitted a Bus Transportation Request are encouraged to do so promptly if their child will be riding a school bus during the 2026-2027 academic year.

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Over my career, I have fished in every southern state below the Mason Dixon Line. Of all the lakes and river systems I have fished, I have never heard as many anglers hate on a body of water like they do the Red River. 

Why does this body of water garner such disdain? What is it about the Red that makes anglers’ blood boil like it’s the worst place on Earth to fish? 

For the life of me I have never been able to figure this out. Before we answer these questions, let’s take a look at some history of this wonderful river system. 

Before the great floods of 2015 and 2016 and from the time the locks and dams were implemented, the Red River became a fishing and hunting paradise. There was great duck and deer hunting along with some awesome bass fishing; fishing so good that both major professional bass fishing organizations, the FLW (now MLF) and the Bassmaster Classic, held championship events on the Red.

Well-known backwater areas like the Jungle, Little Jungle, Knee Knock, Sutherlands, White House and Goose Pond, to name a few, offered some of the best bass cover imaginable. Lush green acres of lily pads and hydrilla along with plenty of standing timber and laydowns were just loaded with bass.

Then in 2015 and 2016 the Red River went through two floods of Biblical proportions. These were truly 100-year events that took the Red River system years to recover. 

So much of the main river was destroyed with small islands totally wiped out. Tree lines along the river were completely stripped of the timber that once stood tall. 

Backwater areas off the river that held good vegetation like reeds, hydrilla and lily pads were all wiped clean. There was little to no cover left behind after these devastating floods. 

Just to give you an idea of how massive these back-to-back floods were, the water reached record levels of 25 to 30 feet above pool! 

There was also a huge fish die-off during the floods but give credit to the Red River Waterway Commission for developing a restocking program that has brought the river back to life with quality bass being caught once again.  

OK, enough history. Let’s get back to the question: why do so many anglers hate the Red River? First, it can be a tough place for a bass boat to navigate, especially in some of the backwater areas. It’s full of stumps and laydowns that can do damage to an outboard engine’s lower unit, not to mention the fiberglass damage that can occur to the boat. It is a very unforgiving body of water if you don’t know how to get around.

Additionally, there are underwater rock jetties. Knowing where these are located is VERY IMPORTANT, especially along the main river system. Some of these jetties are not visible and run straight off the bank several yards underwater. If you cut the corners too tight or run the river too close to the bank, you can hit these rocks and do major damage to your outboard motor. But if you stay between the red and green buoys that line the main river, you’ll be just fine. 

Let’s talk about the fishing! Some anglers really struggle to catch fish on the Red River, especially anglers who have never fished a river system. Rivers are a different animal than your man-made lakes. Fish relate a little different in a river system than they do in a lake.

Current and moving water can be a big factor in catching bass with any river system. Bass relate to current breaks like sand bars, big laydowns, and rock jetty points, making the main river current very important. However, the backwater areas do fish like any other lake.

So, between the difficulty of navigating the Red and the challenges of river fishing, the weigh-ins are a cry fest of guys complaining about coming to fish here! Tournament directors are inundated with complaints from the guys who can’t stand a Red River event. 

Here’s my advice to all the whiners. “Get your butt in the boat and learn it like you would any other body of water!” It’s no different than going to a new lake; you have to learn it! STOP YOUR WHINING!

Another reason some anglers hate coming to the Red is the fact that it levels the playing field. Every lake has a handful of local guys who you must beat when you back your boat in the water, which can make it more difficult for a lot of anglers to compete for a win. But the Red River is an equalizer and gives a lot of anglers a shot at winning.

Here’s my personal viewpoint. I absolutely love the Red River and everything about it! It’s a great fishery with both backwater and main river habitat. It’s a body of water on the rebound as local tournaments are now taking over 18 pounds to win. 

After the two major floods of 2015 and 2016, anglers needed 14-15 pounds to win. But now, due to the impact of the restocking program, good fishing has returned with more quality bass being caught.

From the very first time I fished an event here, I was hooked! I have loved the Red River ever since and made it a priority to learn it. As an angler, some of my greatest tournaments have been on this body of water. To all those who hate it, take the time to learn it and it will probably become one of your favorite places to fish!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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July 15 has been the date of several notable events throughout history, but one of the most influential in modern communication happened in 2006 when Twitter officially launched to the public.

Originally created as a simple platform for users to post short status updates of 140 characters or less, Twitter quickly evolved into one of the world’s most influential social media platforms. The service became a hub for breaking news, emergency alerts, entertainment, sports and public conversation, fundamentally changing how information is shared in real time.

The platform’s first tweet was posted months earlier on March 21, 2006, by co-founder Jack Dorsey, who wrote, “just setting up my twttr.” The public launch on July 15 marked the beginning of what would become a global communications tool used by millions of people.

Over the years, Twitter played a major role in covering elections, natural disasters, sporting events and other major world events, often delivering news faster than traditional media outlets.

In 2023, the platform was rebranded as X, though many people still commonly refer to it by its original name.

Nearly two decades after its public debut, the platform continues to influence how people communicate and consume news around the world.

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By Brad Dison

William Bruce “Bill” Rose was an unsavory character.  Police arrested him numerous times for non-violent crimes.  In 1964, 22-year-old Bill left his 18-year-old wife Sharon and their two-year-old son William Bruce Rose Jr. and infant daughter Amy.  In 1965, Sharon met Stephen Bailey and married him the following January.  When they married, Sharon told Billy and Amy that Stephen was their father, and they took his last name.  As a teenager, Billy disliked the name because kids teased him for being Bill Bailey.  Stephen and Sharon raised Billy, Amy, and their only child together, Stuart, in a Pentecostal church.  Their children often performed in church as the Bailey Trio, but there were problems at home.  Billy and his stepfather fought constantly.  When he was 17 years old, Billy accidentally learned that Stephen was not his biological father.  Billy knew nothing about his biological father, but he began going by the name Billy Rose.  For better or worse, Billy never met his father as an adult.

In 1984, Bill Rose, who had recently been paroled from prison, disappeared from Marion, Illinois.  Three years later, in May 1987, police arrested 39-year-old James Faulkner for murdering Bill sometime between May 1 and July 4, 1984.  The family had kept the murder a secret until James’s son Jimmy revealed it to Katie Adams, a counselor with the area Youth Services Bureau.  At her insistence, Jimmy contacted the police.  Jimmy told investigators that Bill was killed in their home at 409 E. DeYoung Street in Marion.  Jimmy said that on the night of Bill’s murder, “My mom and dad and Bill went out drinking.”  Later, they returned to the Faulkner’s home where the trio began having intercourse.  At some point, James left the bedroom, went to Jimmy’s bedroom, and woke him.  James told his then 15-year-old son that he needed him to see something.  Jimmy followed instructions and walked toward the bedroom.  He noticed that his father was holding a long knife.  As Jimmy stood there in shocked silence, his father stabbed Bill, then dragged Bill into the bathroom.  He said “Sayonara, Bill” and finished him off with a baseball bat.  Jimmy said his parents wrapped Bill in painter’s cloth and tied it with a piece of clothesline.  James put the knife into a jug of bleach.  James had his wife and son help load Bill’s body into the trunk of their car, and the family drove five miles to a remote wooded area known as Crenshaw Crossing.  James, Judith, and Jimmy removed the body from their trunk, and they rolled it down one of the area’s many embankments.  James covered the body with debris to disguise it.  The family returned home and James and Judith began scrubbing the floor and carpet in the bedroom.  James told Jimmy to throw the knife in the city reservoir a few blocks south of their home and to put the baseball bat on a public baseball diamond.  Jimmy complied.  Jimmy later showed investigators where he had thrown the knife and divers retrieved the weapon.  Judith’s testimony initially agreed with Jimmy’s, but she later changed her story to help James.  On September 9, 1987, James was found guilty of murder even though Bill’s body had not been found, and he was sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole.  Bill’s body has never been found. 

Had Billy Rose wanted to meet his biological father as an adult, he never had the chance.  Like his father, Billy was arrested numerous times for various crimes.  Just as he had done as a child in church, Billy always found comfort in singing.  Billy became a famous singer.  The world knows William Bruce “Billy” Rose Jr. as Axl Rose, lead singer for Guns N Roses.

Sources:

1.     Southern Illinoisan, May 7, 1987, p.1.

2.     Southern Illinoisan, August 13, 1987, p.9.

3.     Southern Illinoisan, August 24, 1987, p.9.

4.     Southern Illinoisan, September 2, 1987, p.21.

5.     Evansville Courier and Press, September 4, 1987, p.1.

6.     Southern Illinoisan, September 10, 1987, p.1.

7.     Dave Basner, “25 Things You Might Not Know About Birthday Boy Axl Rose,” February 6, 2025, IHeart Radio, https://kfmqrock1061.iheart.com/content/2020-02-06-25-things-you-might-not-know-about-birthday-boy-axl-rose/.       

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LaSalle Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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Jena High School is inviting students and their families to attend its annual Open House as preparations begin for the 2026-2027 school year.

The event will be held on Thursday, July 30, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., giving students an opportunity to become familiar with the campus, meet school staff, and complete several important back-to-school tasks before classes begin.

During the open house, students and parents will be able to:

Receive important school information for the upcoming school year.

Pick up class schedules.

Obtain parking tags for eligible student drivers.

School officials encourage all Jena High School students and their families to attend to ensure they are prepared for the first day of school and have the information needed for a successful academic year.

The open house also provides an opportunity for students to reconnect with classmates, ask questions, and become acquainted with any new procedures or expectations for the upcoming year.

Jena High School continues its commitment to “Building Tradition. Inspiring Excellence,” as it welcomes students back for another year of academic achievement and school pride.

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LaSalle Parish Schools is inviting community members to explore a rewarding career in student transportation by registering for its upcoming Bus Driver Certification Training Course.

The district is seeking individuals who are interested in making a difference by safely transporting students to and from school each day. School officials say no prior experience is necessary, as participants will receive comprehensive training throughout the certification process.

The next training class will be held at the LaSalle Parish Media Center, with sessions beginning soon.

According to the district, the program offers:

Comprehensive bus driver certification training

No experience requiredStep-by-step instruction and support throughout the certification process

An opportunity to serve students and the local community

LaSalle Parish Schools encourages anyone looking for a meaningful career with the chance to positively impact the lives of local students to consider becoming a certified school bus driver.

For additional information or to register, interested individuals can contact the LaSalle Parish School Board Transportation Department at 318-992-2161 or visit the district’s transportation webpage for registration details.

School officials say bus drivers are an essential part of the education team, helping ensure students arrive at school and return home safely each day while serving as positive role models in the community.

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LASALLE PARISH, La. — As families prepare for the start of the new school year, LaSalle Parish Schools is inviting parents and guardians to take advantage of Meet the School Nurse Day on Friday, July 31, to ensure students who require medication at school are ready for the first day of classes.

The event will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with school nurses available to accept doctor’s orders and student medications for children who need medication administered during the school day.

To make the process convenient for families across the parish, nurses will be stationed at three locations:

Jena Elementary School – Serving students attending JES, FES, and NES

Goodpine Middle School – Serving students attending GPMS, JJHS, and JHS

Olla Elementary School – Serving students attending OES, LJHS, and LHS

School officials encourage parents of students who require medication at school to attend the event with the necessary paperwork and medications to help ensure a smooth start to the academic year.

By completing the required documentation before classes begin, families can help school nurses provide safe and timely care for students with medical needs.

Event at a Glance

What: Meet the School Nurse Day

When: Friday, July 31, 2026

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Purpose: Drop off doctor orders and medications for students who take medication at school.

LaSalle Parish Schools encourages families to mark their calendars and take advantage of this opportunity to prepare for a healthy and successful school year.

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