Long-time Shreveport contractor Ernie Turner, who developed Pierremont Common, has retired and sold the shopping area to Mary Ann and Terry Elston, who own Kitchen and Bath Cottage. Turner and his long-time maintenance coordinator, Jesse Salter, were honored Feb. 17 with a reception at Kitchen and Bath Cottage.

– Mary Ann Van Osdell

On Feb. 3, a large crowd of 500 people gathered together for the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Eighth Air Force with a gala dinner at Sam’s Town in downtown Shreveport. Numerous military officials and both Mayor Ollie Tyler and Mayor Lo Walker attended. The featured guest speaker was four-star general Michael Hayden, who was the former director of the CIA and former director of the NSA. On Feb. 1, 1942, the history of today’s 8th Air Force began to write its story. With milestones such as the Doolittle Raid and Operation Linebacker II, the 8th Air Force quickly became known as the “Mighty Eighth.” In January 1975, Eighth Air Force moved to Barksdale, its ninth location, and has since called the Bossier City and Shreveport area home. Barksdale also serves as the unit’s longest-standing home station in its history.

– Mark Crawford