Lifestyle

The Mansfield Main Branch Library is celebrating Independence Day with a festive 4th of July display created by Mrs. Doris Ross.

The display features patriotic decorations, American flags, flowers, and a collection of books about American history and freedom. It has added a special holiday spirit to the library and is available for the community to enjoy.

We invite everyone to stop by the Mansfield Main Branch Library to see the display and celebrate the Fourth of July with us.

Braden Phillips of North DeSoto High School is the newest member of Northwestern State University’s Rodeo Team and will compete in team roping. He is the son of Tammy Phillips and Mark Phillips.

Cody DeMoss, a 14time NFR bronc rider, will be coaching the Rodeo Team, which is open to all full-time NSU students with a minimum 2.0 grade point average. Male competition events will include saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, bull riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling and team roping. Female competitions will include barrel racing, breakaway roping, goat tying and team roping.

The team will compete through the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA), representing NSU against top programs across the Southern Region and the United States. The Rodeo Team will provide an opportunity for students to continue their rodeo careers while earning a degree, gaining experience and representing NSU at a competitive level.

Thirteen-year-old Carla Heard earned both First Place and the People’s Choice Award at this year’s Caddo’s Rising Star Competition.

A homeschooled student and aspiring singer, Heard impressed judges and audiences with performances of Beyoncé’s “Love on Top” and Whitney Houston’s “I Have Nothing.” Her strong vocals and stage presence helped secure the competition’s top honors.

In addition to winning First Place, Heard became the inaugural Caddo’s Rising Star, marking a historic achievement in the competition’s debut year.

Carla is the daughter DeCarlos Heard & LaTesha Heard and the granddaughter of Canavery Martin and Larry and Glenda Heard.

Family, friends, and supporters are celebrating her success and looking forward to her future in music.

Congratulations to Carla Heard on her outstanding achievement at the 2026 Caddo’s Rising Star Competition.

The Mansfield Library would like to invite you to come by and view our feature exhibition highlighting our Juneteenth display, which is currently on exhibit throughout June.

The display, curated by Mr. David L. Walker of Frierson, showcases a unique collection celebrating Juneteenth and African American history. The exhibit includes historical documents, books, artwork, cultural artifacts, music memorabilia, and educational materials that honor the lives, sacrifices, achievements, and lasting contributions of African Americans.

Under the leadership of our Branch Manager and Cataloger, Mrs. Doris Ross, the Mansfield Library is proud to offer educational and cultural displays that encourage learning, reflection, and community engagement. This special exhibit provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the significance of Juneteenth and gain a deeper appreciation for the history, culture, and heritage that continue to shape our community.

Mansfield Branch Manager Mrs. Doris Ross recently created a beautiful Father’s Day display at the DeSoto Parish Library in Mansfield. The display features inspirational books, floral arrangements, and a heartfelt Father’s Day blessing honoring fathers and father figures.

We appreciate Mrs. Ross’s creativity and dedication in putting together this meaningful exhibit for our patrons to enjoy during the Father’s Day season.

A brother in arms, a Green Beret A friend and family each and every day Strong, humble and devoted Honors rarely noted Head kept down doing his job Then back to the FOB missions Conquered and defeated Never once being retreated.

Always from home many times…only once in the headlines Nor for glory nor for fame Most never knew his name Starred fear in the eyes while standing tall One great hero to us all Rode that plane called the “Angel Flight” So we could sleep in peace at night Many left here, here to sob For he was to become a Soldier of God Saluting you my hero, my friend Until we meet yet once again!

Books and Biscuits recently gathered for a thoughtful and engaging discussion of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, the beloved novel by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. The meeting was led by Diane Rosenblath, who guided attendees through both the literary elements of the story and the rich historical context behind it.

Set in the aftermath of World War II, the novel is told through letters and follows a writer who becomes intrigued by the residents of Guernsey, one of the Channel Islands. During the discussion, Rosenblath provided a brief but informative history of Guernsey, highlighting its occupation by German forces during the war and the resilience of its people.

DeSoto Parish Schools proudly participated in the Love the Boot cleanup with a team of 30 participants, including DeSoto Parish Schools employees and members of Expand Energy, where they picked up trash along Highway 171.

Together, this team collected a total of 60 bags of waste, helping make a visible difference in keeping our parish clean and beautiful. Thank you to everyone who participated, you’re help is greatly appreciated!