For 45 years, the arts have been woven into the fabric of Bossier Parish life — thanks in large part to the Bossier Arts Council (BAC). Founded to enrich and expand access to the arts, BAC has become a cornerstone of the local community. Its mission is simple yet far-reaching: to create artistic and cultural opportunities that support artists and …
As the new school year kicks off in Bossier Parish, it’s time to trade in pool days for pencils and prepare for a fresh start in the classroom. Whether you’re a parent, student, or fellow educator, navigating the transition from summer break to school routines can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, Kedra Wilson, a Bossier Parish educator serving Bossier Parish …
When LaShawn Harley-Hill lost her vision in 2017, she could have given up. Instead, she found strength through faith, community, and a deep determination to reclaim her independence and ultimately earn a master’s degree. Born in Bennettsville, South Carolina, LaShawn has called Bossier home since 2003. She spent 14 years working at LSU Hospital until her vision began to decline …
Nestled at 5217 Airline Drive in Bossier City, Raccoon Bend Farms is a vibrant urban farm and garden market driven by a deep commitment to clean, sustainable food and community well‑being. Founded by Lee and Alicia DeCote, Raccoon Bend Farms isn’t just about growing food; it’s about nurturing health and education for the Northwest Louisiana community. Alicia DeCote left her …
Blog by Emma Pledger A new supermarket has just launched for a soft opening in Benton and it’s bringing all the flavors from East Asia to the local community. Hong Kong Asian Market, a vision put together by two brothers, offers more than just groceries–it shares culture, purpose, and a personal passion. Zengxing Dong, one of the brilliant minds behind …
Local business and community leaders are joining forces to transform how Bossier residents live, work, and play. The Bossier Innovates Foundation is partnering with the Bossier Chamber of Commerce’s Community Sustainability Committee to elevate the quality of life across Bossier Parish. “Our mission is to drive economic, educational, and entrepreneurial growth in the region,” said Sean Green, chair of the …
June is a powerful time for reflection and celebration. Juneteenth, combining “June” and “nineteenth,” marks June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to proclaim freedom for the last enslaved people in Confederate territory, fulfilling the promise of Lincoln’s 1863 Emancipation Proclamation. Although Texans began celebrating as early as 1866, Juneteenth didn’t become a federally recognized holiday …
There’s nothing more quintessentially Louisiana than Mardi Gras — the vibrant, time-honored celebration of joy, culture, and community that precedes a season of fasting and reflection. While this tradition has deep roots in South Louisiana, northwest Louisiana has embraced its own Mardi Gras spirit for nearly four decades, thanks in large part to the Krewe of Gemini. Founded in 1989, …
It’s been six years since Be Bossier has last spoken to bluesy Bossier Parish Native, Garrett Jacobs. When we last spoke, he was competing in American Idol and had made it to the Top 24. He went on to reach the Top 14 and has since relocated to Nashville, TN, where he is pursuing music full time! “I am a …
Bossier is the biggest small town in Louisiana, and that unique disposition has created crumbs of knowledge that you can only learn by living in it. Outsiders might refer to it as hidden gems or even secrets, but there are a lot of common understandings that only locals know about the towns, parish, community, and culture of Bossier. Here are …
