Month: July 2023

Join Shreveport Police Department for Dean Williams Memorial Run: August 26

/ cpoole003
Please join the Shreveport Police Department for the 28th Annual Dean Williams Memorial Run on Saturday, Aug. 26
 
Ron Dean #551 and Dewayne Williams #904 were both assigned to the narcotics division of the Shreveport Police Department and were killed while carrying out those duties in an effort to make our city a safer place to live.
 
On December 16, 1992 Ron Dean was shot and killed during the execution of a narcotics search warrant at the Pines Apartments on Line Avenue.
 
On March 3, 1993, less than three months later, Dewayne Williams was shot and killed while executing a search warrant for narcotics at a home on Magnolia Avenue.
 
Ron Dean and Dewayne Williams were long time supporters of the Special Olympics. Shreveport Police Officers, other law enforcement agencies across the region, and many great people participate in this run each year. This event is an example of how two people’s commitment to their community can leave a legacy that will last forever. 
 
All funds raised are donated to the Louisiana Special Olympics


Starting Times: 

1/2 mile Fun Run/Walk starts at 8:00 a.m.     5K Run starts at 8:30 a.m.


Early Registration: Early registration fee is $25.00 until  August 18th after that the fee is $30.00. Race day fee $35.00. You can also register at Sportspectrum, 6970 Fern Ave., Shreveport.


Sleep-in supporter: Don’t feel like getting up and running? Be a sleep-in supporter. You still get a shirt and you don’t have to break a sweat to get it!!


Race Packet: Every pre-registered participant will receive an Official 2023 Dean-Williams Run T-shirt.

Shirts will be limited to the first 300, so please register early.

You may pick up your packet early at Sportspectrum—Thursday, August 24th from 12pm—6pm and Friday, August 25th from 10am—5:30pm. Race day pick up will be from 7:00—8:15am at the race site.

Course Description: The race will begin near the Veterans Memorial on the Clyde Fant Parkway. Runners will head north on the parkway to the Police/ Fireman’s Memorial turn around and head back to the finish.


Awards: Overall Male & Female will receive awards.

1st & 2nd age group winners receive awards. Male & Female 13-under, 14-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 & up.

Law Enforcement Awards: Overall Male & Female. 1st & 2nd age group winners receive awards. Male & Female 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 & up.
 

Initially underrated, Forte quickly became invaluable at every level

/ Megan Lowe
AMONG THE BEST: Slidell native and Tulane product Matt Forte still ranks among elite NFL backs for running and receiving production, and heads into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame this weekend. (Photo courtesy of Chicago Bears/LSHOF)

NOTE — This is part of a series of stories profiling the 12-person Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2023, who will be inducted to culminate three days of festivities in Natchitoches beginning Thursday. For tickets and more information, visit LaSportsHall.com or call 318-238-4255. 

By LENNY VANGILDER, Written for the LSWA

Recruiting services listed Matt Forte as a fullback coming out of Slidell High School. He would make his mark over four years at Tulane and 10 more in the NFL as a lead back.

To his former high school coach, Wayne Grubb, the letters next to his name didn’t matter.

“I always referred to him as a football player,” Grubb said. “He did other things like run track, but he was a football player.”

Forte – who rolled up more than 3,000 yards from scrimmage in high school, another 5,000 at Tulane and better than 14,000 in 10 seasons in the NFL – is part of the 2023 induction class of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame being honored beginning Thursday in Natchitoches.

Underrated might have also been an accurate way to describe Forte, who was rated only a two-star recruit by Rivals.com.

Current Slidell High School principal Larry Favre had a unique vantage point to Forte’s high school career – the opposite sideline. As head coach at Fontainebleau High School in 2002 and 2003, Favre’s teams faced Forte and Slidell three times – twice in the regular season and once in the playoffs.

“He had over 800 yards in those three games against us,” Favre said. “I always told Matt that when it was time for (recruiting visits), all he had to do was put those Fontainebleau tapes in.”

To a degree, Forte was ahead of his time. By the time his high school career was over, not only had he posted a pair of 1,000-yard rushing seasons with 31 touchdowns, but he caught 48 passes and had another five receiving touchdowns.

On the recruiting front, LSU showed some interest, but the Tigers’ head coach at the time, Nick Saban, was only signing one back in the 2004 recruiting class – Jacob Hester of Evangel Christian. Signing that two-star recruit worked out well. So did Forte.

Tulane was on him early and he committed to the Green Wave shortly after his high school football career ended in December 2003, following in the footsteps of his father, Gene, who played for the Wave in the 1970s and was captain of the 1977 squad.

His son’s career was solid but not spectacular until 2007, his senior year, when injury-free, Forte was a load that most opposing defenses could not handle.

He started piling up the numbers in a victory over Southeastern Louisiana in the third week of the season – 40 carries for school records of 303 yards and five touchdowns.

The yardage record lasted all of 28 days. Four Saturdays later at SMU, Forte had 38 carries for 342 yards and four touchdowns in a victory over the Mustangs.

Forte finished his senior season as only the 11th player in Football Bowl Subdivision history to top to top the 2,000-yard mark on the ground.

His 361 carries, 2,127 yards, 23 rushing touchdowns and eight consecutive 100-yard games all remain school records. Forte also set Tulane career records with 4,265 rushing yards, 5,261 all-purpose yards, 39 rushing touchdowns and 44 total touchdowns.

The Chicago Bears selected Forte with the 44th overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, and it wouldn’t take him long to land in the same spotlight that had previously been occupied by the likes of Gale Sayers and Walter Payton.

Forte started his first NFL game, and ended his rookie season with 1,236 yards rushing, 63 receptions, more than 1,700 yards from scrimmage and a dozen total touchdowns. That, however, was good for only fourth in The Associated Press’ NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year voting.

In eight seasons with the Bears, Forte’s worst rushing season was 898 yards. He topped the 1,000-yard mark five times, including a career best 1,339 yards in 2013, when he earned his second Pro Bowl selection.

In 2014, Forte joined an exclusive club. He had 1,038 yards rushing and 102 receptions, joining eventual Pro Football Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson as the only NFL players at that time to top 1,000 yards and 100 catches. (Christian McCaffrey has since joined the group.)

After eight seasons with Chicago in which he rolled up 8,602 rushing yards and 45 touchdowns, Forte moved on to the New York Jets, where he played his final two seasons.

For someone as grounded in his faith as Forte, it shouldn’t have come as a surprise that when he announced his retirement in February 2018 after a decade in the NFL, it wasn’t a story given to ESPN or a major NFL writer, but to the faith-based website Sports Spectrum.

“After much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to retire from the NFL,” Forte said in his statement. “Like so many others before me, this game has enhanced my life in numerous ways. My career in the League has been nothing short of a miracle granted by God and put on display for His glory. I will cherish the many memories made on the field and the lifelong friends I’ve made over the years in the locker room.

“The past 25 years playing America’s game have left me with unparalleled joy. But, it’s time for the workhorse to finally rest in his stable.”

His decade in the NFL was indeed that of a workhorse – 2,356 rushes for 9,796 yards and 68 touchdowns, to go along with 554 catches for 4,672 yards and another 21 scores. In 146 career games, Forte touched the ball an average of 20 times per game.

In his post-playing days, Forte continues to assist in community efforts, working with the team at Biblica Ministry, speaking at churches, and assisting youth and families through his What’s Your Forte Foundation.

His impact – on and off the field – isn’t lost on those back at his former high school.

“When you look at his entire career, no one has had that career during my 23 years in St. Tammany (Parish),” said Favre. “To do it at Tulane, and the NFL, and now going into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, he’s the most accomplished player to come from here.”

Former BPCC pitcher Lawson cashes in draft pick, signs with Mets

/ Megan Lowe

JOURNAL SPORTS

The path to professional baseball again includes Bossier Parish Community College.

Former Cavaliers pitcher Justin Lawson has signed with the New York Mets after being selected in the 15th round of the Major League Baseball Draft earlier this month.

A Winnfield native, Lawson pitched for BPCC during the 2020 and 2021 seasons, then moved on to North Carolina State. In two seasons with the Wolf Pack, he made 46 appearances, pitched 90 innings, recorded 108 strikeouts and posted a 3.50 career earned run average. 

Nine days after being drafted, Lawson signed with the Mets on July 19.  While terms were not announced, BPCC baseball coach Bobby Gilliam noted that the slot value where Laweson was drafted was $150,000.

“His only offers coming out of high school were us and one Mississippi junior college,” said Gilliam. “In the recruiting process our main selling point was our conference. Region 14 is all Texas JUCOs except us and it’s one of the premiere junior college conferences.

“It didn’t take long to realize he was special. His talent stood out right away, especially his slider. That pitch was the key to him getting drafted. The spin rate and all the data on it already has it above MLB average,” said Gilliam.

“His fastball is currently in the low to mid 90s but the ability to throw the slider at any time is what separates him from the crowd. We all had a lot of fun watching him be successful at the highest levels of college baseball,” the Cavaliers’ coach said.

Another uphill battle for Plain Dealing in 2023 

/ Megan Lowe

By LEE HILLER, Journal Sports 

Plain Dealing has a tall task in front of it entering the 2023 football season with just three home games on the slate and one of the best 1A districts in the state – one that produced three 11-game winners and another nine-game winner last season.  

The Lions start with a pair of road trips going east on I-20. The first journey will be a long one,  to Ferriday on the Mississippi River, and a matchup with Delta Charter. The second roadie is easier travel – over to Grambling to play Lincoln Prep. Delta won last year’s only meeting of the schools and LP has a 19-12 advantage in its series with the Bossier Parish school.

The first of the three home games is up next in Week 3 as Lakeside makes the drive from Sibley. The Lions lead the series with Warriors 5-2. 

The District 1-1A schedule starts with a game at Ringgold in a series that Plain Dealing has won 21 of the 26 meetings. 

A trip to Haynesville follows and the perennially powerful Golden Tornado has won all but two of the 41 previous matchups. 

The second and third home games of the year have Homer and Magnolia Charter come to Plain Dealing. The Pelicans have a 20-5 series advantage while the Lions have beaten the Mariners three of four times. 

Plain Dealing finishes the season with three road games, the first to Minden to face Glenbrook. The Apaches reached the state semifinals last year but coach David Feaster moved to become offensive coordinator at Louisiana College.

A non-district battle in Bastrop at Beekman Charter comes before the Lions’ season finale at Arcadia. The series with the Hornets is one of the longest in northwest Louisiana with Plain Dealing having a slight 33-29 edge.  

2023 Plain Dealing football schedule 

Sep. 1 at Delta Charter 

Sep. 8 at Lincoln Prep 

Sep. 15 Lakeside 

Sep. 22 at Ringgold 

Sep. 29 at Haynesville 

Oct. 6 Homer 

Oct. 13 Magnolia Charter 

Oct. 20 at Glenbrook 

Oct. 27 at Beekman Charter 

Nov. 3 at Arcadia 

Cheating rocks pro bass fishing — again 

/ Megan Lowe

And the saga continues. Once again anglers are taking advantage or blatantly ignoring the rules of their sport. Major League Fishing has brought to light a controversy that took place at the Stage 6 tournament on Lake Cayuga, N.Y.

Major League Fishing (MLF) announced June 21 it was investigating accusations that four anglers may have violated sight fishing rules. For those that have no idea what sight fishing is, it’s a technique where anglers visually see a bass sitting on a bed looking to spawn and will try and entice these bass into biting their lure. But one very important rule must be followed. If you are sight fishing, you are required to hook the fish inside the mouth. If the fish is hooked outside the mouth, the fish is considered an unofficial catch and must be returned to the water immediately. This rule is in place so that anglers don’t go out trying to catch fish by snagging them.

Some analysts think it’s immoral or unethical to fish for bass on beds, but it’s not that big an issue since the MLF Bass Pro Tour is a catch and release format. As each fish is caught, it is weighed, recorded and released immediately. 

But here’s the accusations — some anglers were not following  protocol when they pull their catch on board. Anglers who are sight fishing are required to show their on-board marshal (an observer who weighs and monitors each fish caught; making sure anglers follow the rules) that the fish is hooked inside the mouth. If not, it must be released — considered an unofficial catch. But in this event, some anglers were being discreet and hiding their fish as they brought them on the boat so that the cameras nor the marshal could see how the fish was hooked. They would just unhook the bass and proceed to weigh it without confirming it was hooked inside the mouth.

The next issue from this event: some anglers were catching the same fish more than once during the day. The rule states that an angler cannot catch and weigh the same fish more than once in a day.

They can return and catch that same fish the following day if they choose. After video reviews, 16 anglers were called in and subjected to a polygraph test. One failed.

MLF officials have been hard at work reviewing video footage of the anglers in question in order to make sure all the rules were followed. If they find rules have been violated, MLF officials will have to decide to what extent they should be punished. This is where things could get a little weird and revealing. MLF has got to come down hard on this if they find violations were made. No longer is a slap on the wrist a strong enough punishment for violating the rules. MLF’s reputation and integrity are at stake with these rulings. 

Extensive punishment is called for — like suspension for the next event or even worse, suspension for a full season. The best way anglers will get the message that cheating will not be tolerated is to hit them in their checkbook. Disqualifying their days catch and dropping them in the standings a few places is not strong enough. A message needs to be sent that will make anglers think twice about cheating.

Yes, I said cheating! Since its inception, MLF has basically turned a blind eye to certain violations. Just like NASCAR, drivers are always trying to push the envelope and dabble in the grey area of the rules. Bass tournaments are no different as anglers are always looking for an advantage over their competitors by looking for loopholes in the rules. 

Due to the amount of money involved in today’s bass tournament world, with thousands of dollars up for grabs, anglers are thinking outside the box and looking for ways to get around the rules in order to be successful or gain an advantage. But now the time has finally come for anglers to be held accountable for their actions.

While 98 percent of the anglers do a great job of self-reporting and holding each other accountable, it’s the other two percent that need to be made to pay a penalty. With the increase in live prime time TV coverage and national exposure, it’s important to preserve the integrity of the sport and show the anglers and their fans that rule violators will not be tolerated.

I hope MLF officials will come down hard on the angler or anglers if rules were violated. Nothing will bring the sport down faster than anglers who insist on cheating.

‘Til next time, good luck, good fishing, and always read and follow the rules for any tournament you’re competing in.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

A scouting report on Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration fun

/ NPJ

It’s almost showtime for the 2023 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration Thursday, Friday and Saturday in Natchitoches (except for Friday’s BOM Celebrity Bowling Bash in Alexandria), so it’s time to plan to take in as much fun as you can.

The most-asked question — can I still get tickets for the Saturday evening Induction Reception (from 5-6:30 at the Hall of Fame museum) and Ceremony (at 7 in the Natchitoches Events Center)?

YES. While the usual big turnout is coming, there is still time to go online at LaSportsHall.com to purchase admission to the signature event. But don’t delay – it could sell out.

The reception provides an array of food stations with fare from not only local restaurants, but some from around the state, along with refreshments and music. It’s a chance to see new exhibits (the Kim Mulkey showcase, for example), new display items to celebrate the museum’s 10th anniversary, the just-installed Class of 2023 display cases, and to meet all of the new inductees and perhaps snap a selfie.

The Induction Ceremony at the neighboring Events Center kicks off promptly at 7 with the National Anthem, followed by the stirring Walk of Legends showcasing past Hall of Fame members returning, then introducing the Class of ’23, set to music from The Natural. The 12 inductions begin immediately after, featuring compelling video introductions followed by on-stage conversations with inductees – producing lots of laughter and some misty-eyed moments certain to create lasting memories.

Saturday evening is the only “dress up” event of the Induction Celebration. Blazers for the men and cocktail dress-style attire for the women are requested.

Otherwise, it’s casual for the rest of the festivities, starting with the free, open to everyone Thursday evening Welcome Reception from 5-7 at the museum. La Capitol Federal Credit Union will mark its 20th year presenting that signature event – again with food, refreshments and music, and the new inductees and their families having traveled in some cases almost 2,000 miles to celebrate the occasion.

There’s still room for bowlers to join in Friday’s BOM Celebrity Bowling Bash at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. The doors open at 11:30 with lunch provided by Walk On’s, plenty of warm up bowling and music, and more mingling with inductees, their families, and other sports celebrities before they’re introduced and “competition” begins at 1. Again – sign up at LaSportsHall.com.

The biggest free event is Friday evening on the downtown Natchitoches riverbank stage – the Rockin’ River Fest Concert, from 6-10:30.

It’s family friendly. A free interactive kids zone presented by Louisiana Propane Dealers will include basketball, football, golf and science games for all ages to enjoy.

Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters are back as the headline act. Dopsie has played the White House to the Jazz Fest, boogied with James Brown and John Fogerty, and wowed crowds all over, described as “Mick Jagger of the marsh” as “a party seems to break out whenever and wherever Dopsie and his band show up.”

The opening act is Jason Ashley & The Hot Sauce Band, featuring the Alexandria native and regional country music star playing hits from yesterday and today, an act popular around the Gulf Coast and all the way to Nashville.

If you want to beat the summer heat and enjoy a tasty collection of Louisiana foods and specialty refreshments, you can visit LaSportsHall.com to snap up some of the few remaining $100 tickets to the VIP Taste of Tailgating presented by Hancock Whitney.

That party runs from 7-10 p.m. in the air-conditioned comfort of Mama’s Oyster House and Blues Room that will provide exclusive access to the 12-member 2023 Induction Class. They will also be introduced on stage at 9:15, just before a 10-minute fireworks show set to sports-themed music.

Saturday morning’s Junior Training Camp hosted by the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans at NSU’s Webb Wellness and Recreation Center has only a handful of free spots left for kids 7-17. Advance registration is required at LaSportsHall.com.

There’s no more room for Saturday’s Round Table Lunch downtown at The Venue. It’s sold out.

But there are plenty of other chances to see the Class of 2023:  Eli Manning, Alana Beard, Paul Mainieri, Matt Forte, Wendell Davis, Paul Byrd, Walter Davis, Ron Washington, Walter Imahara, M.L. Woodruff, and sports journalists Bruce Brown and Lori Lyons.

You’re invited to join the fun, starting Thursday evening in Natchitoches.

Remembering Donald “Donnie” Davis

/ NPJ

September 15, 1965 — July 23, 2023

Funeral services for Donald “Donnie” Lee Davis, 57, of Benton, Louisiana, will be held on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City, Louisiana, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Rose-Neath Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Officiating the service will be Pastor C.L. Bourn.

Donnie was born on September 15, 1965, to Della Jane Harville and James Alfred Davis in New Orleans, Louisiana, and passed away on Sunday, July 23, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Donnie was married to his loving wife Tillie for 32 wonderful years. He loved hunting and fishing and spent all his free time in the woods or on the water. He really enjoyed spending time at the camp with his friends. He fought stage IV cancer for over three years with his supportive family by his side.

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Tillie Manning Davis; daughters, Haley Robinson and husband, Albert, Sabrina Bardon, Krystal Davis and Chacitie Fullwood; son-in-love and best friend, Robert Bass; Grandchildren, Katilynn Fullwood, Cirsten Fullwood, Jason Bardon, Jadyn Williams, Jeremy “Bud” Williams Jr., Khyra Davis, Andre Davis and soon to be here Kreeden Lee Robinson; great-grand-daughter, Azaelya Lever; brothers, James “Jimbo” Davis and Jeffrey Davis; sisters, Nobie Roberts, Theresa Sullivan and Lisa Windham.

Honoring Donnie as pallbearers will be Robert Bass, Trey Bass, Stephen Ertz, Stephen Booker, Rosario Hamilton and Ronnie “Tiger” Harville Jr.

The family would like to express a special thanks to Dr. “V” at Willis Knighton Cancer Center for the care and compassion he showed Donnie and his loved ones.

Great 100 Nurse Award nominee: Chasity Teer

/ cpoole003
Chasity Teer was recently recognized as a nominee for the Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport’s Great 100 Nurse Award. This award recognizes her for her concern of humanity, her significant contribution to the profession of nursing and the mentoring of others. We asked Chasity a few questions about her nomination and her time in the nursing field.
 
𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙜𝙣𝙞𝙯𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 𝙂𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝟭𝟬𝟬 𝙉𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝘼𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙚? 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙬𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙬𝙨?
 
I was honored and surprised. God has blessed me with an amazing team of nurses that work together, support each other, and strive to be the best.
 
𝘾𝙖𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙠𝙚𝙮 𝙖𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙣𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙗𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙜𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣? 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙙𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙨𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙨?
 
Key aspects in nursing are compassion, humility, and placing others needs before your own. I do not believe there is anything particular that sets me apart from others nurses. I believe nursing is a calling and I have been blessed to be apart of team of nurses that are focused on providing equitable, high quality care to everyone the touch. I try to be a positive role model and I never ask anyone to do something I am not willing to do myself. You should always lead by example.
 
𝑵𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏. 𝑰𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒋𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒕𝒐𝒑 𝒏𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆, 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒃𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒍𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆𝒅, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎?
 
The field of healthcare is constantly evolving. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and ensure that your skills and knowledge are always at their best to provide the highest level of care to your patients? Healthcare continues to evolve and change over the years. I continue to maintain two national certification that help me keep abreast of healthcare’s dynamic changes. I am currently working on a master’s degree and a huge proponent of professional growth for my staff.
 
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒏𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅, 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒔, 𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒂𝒓 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒈𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆?
 
Find an area in nursing that you are passionate about serving. Use that passion to care for patients, to be innovative, and to be a true partner with your healthcare team. Make sure you are reliable and keep the promises you make to others. Be curious, ask questions, and do not be afraid to have your voice heard.
 
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒃𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝑾𝒆𝒅𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒅𝒂𝒚, 𝑶𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝟏𝟏.

Notice of Death – July 25, 2023

/ NPJ

Kimberly Salter Carroll
December 27, 1968 — July 19, 2023
Visitation: Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 5 pm at Rose Neath Funeral Home – Shreveport Marshall.

Jerry A. Stiles
February 11, 1944 — July 20, 2023
Visitation: July 26, 2023, 9 am at Bistineau Baptist Church.
Service: July 26, 2023, 11 am at Bistineau Cemetery.

Kenneth Bryan Middleton
February 27, 1951 — July 22, 2023
Service: July 26, 2023, 10 am at Lebanon Cemetery, Homer.

Estelle Christian
July 13, 1943 — July 23, 2023
Service: Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 10 am at Roes Neath Funeral Homes – Arcadia

Pauline McMillan Duncan
August 21, 1928 — July 23, 2023
Service: Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 10 am at Forest Park West Cemetery.

Charles Howard Clawson
February 3, 1938 – July 18, 2023
Visitation: Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 4 pm at Osborn Funeral Home
Service: Thursday, July 27, 2023, 11 am at Osborn Funeral Home

Donald “Donnie” Davis
September 15, 1965 — July 23, 2023
Visitation: Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 5 pm at Rose Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.
Service: Thursday, July 27, 2023, 11 am at Rose Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Shawney Ray West
October 26, 1946 – July 1, 2023
Service: Saturday, July 29, 2023, 2 pm at Ellerbe Road Methodist Church.

The Shreveport-Bossier Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or SBJNewsLa@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to SBJNewsLa@gmail.com)

Update: Over 10,000 child porn images found on Shreveport man’s computer

/ cpoole003
 
More than 10,000 images depicting child sexual abuse have been found on a Shreveport man’s electronic device, said Sheriff Steve Prator.
 
On July 14, Robert Randall Reinhart, 58, of the 8100 block of Paula Kay Place in Shreveport, was arrested and charged with 266 counts of Possession and Distribution of Child Pornography.
 
He now faces an additional 10,496 counts of possession of Pornography Involving Juveniles. Cyber Crime Detective Thomas Lites discovered the images after a digital forensic examination of one of the eighteen digital devices seized from Reinhart’s home.
 
Reinhart is currently booked with no bond in the Caddo Correctional Center. This is an ongoing investigation.

Traffic stop leads to stolen gun and drugs

/ cpoole003
A Caddo patrol deputy arrested a Shreveport man who was found with drugs and a stolen gun during a traffic stop, said Sheriff Steve Prator.
 
Marvin Robinson, 38, of the 2900 block of Judson Street, was stopped by Dep. Jon-Marco Daughtery on July 17 at the intersection of Pinehill Road and Roy Road. Dep. Daughtery said he smelled marijuana during his interaction with Robinson. Deputies detained Robinson and found a stolen Glock handgun, four large-capacity magazines, one 50-round loaded Glock magazine, marijuana, ecstasy, and two digital scales.
 
Robinson was arrested and charged with:
• Possession of Schedule I with Intent to Distribute
• Possession of Schedule II with Intent to Distribute
• Illegal Carrying of a Weapon in the Presence of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
• Possession of a Stolen Firearm
 
Robinson also received a ticket for operating a vehicle while under suspension and no license plate. He is currently booked with no bond in the Caddo Correctional Center.

Briana Spivey sworn in as Caddo Parish Assistant DA

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District Attorney Stewart swears in Briana Spivey as Assistant District Attorney, First Judicial District.
 
Briana comes to the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office from the City Court of Shreveport prosecutors office. She is a native of Monroe, and graduate of Neville High School, University of Louisiana – Lafayette, and Southern University Law Center. Briana joins the prosecution team in the court of Judge Donald Hathaway, Jr.

Caddo Parish Public Schools provide one-time stipend for employees

/ cpoole003

The Caddo Parish School Board recently approved using higher-than-expected sales tax revenues to fund a $1,000 stipend for employees. The stipend is a token of appreciation for the hard work and dedication of staff members.

Additionally, the district is actively hiring teachers and support staff for the 2023-2024 school year. New teachers will be eligible for the Board and $2,000 state-approved one-time supplements but also a $1,000 new hire stipend. Interested individuals can view available jobs online at http://www.caddoschools.org.

Beard’s Hall of Fame career inspires a new mission back home

/ Megan Lowe
 SIMPLY THE BEST:  After helping Southwood High win four state championships, Shreveport’s Alana Beard became the player of the year in women’s college basketball at Duke in a career sending her into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame this weekend. (Photo courtesy of Duke Athletics)

By JOHN JAMES MARSHALL, Journal Sports

For someone who had a career full of highlights, you’d think it would be easy for Alana Beard to choose one.

Think again.

WNBA Champion?

Two Final Four appearances?

Four-time WNBA All-Star?

School scoring record at Duke University?

No. 2 pick in the WNBA draft?

“That’s a tough question,” said Beard, who will be inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame this weekend in Natchitoches.

“It’s impossible to pinpoint just one highlight because all of those have led to this moment,” Beard said. “But my high school career (at Southwood) was my foundation. The fact that we were capable of winning four state championships in a row during that span, that would be it. That was the beginning of everything else.”

The “everything else” part of it is quite substantial, because even though her playing career is over, a new career has begun. Once her amazing basketball career ended, she has continued to make her mark as founder and president of the 318 Foundation, established to help close the opportunity gap for high school girls in underserved communities.

The program, anchored by the Andre Agassi Foundation for Education, has been piloted in Shreveport and is being implemented in other locations.

Beard spent five months in 2019 in Shreveport and took it upon herself to organizing meetings with political, civic and school leaders. “I wanted to see just what was needed in Shreveport,” she said. “I’ve always been adamant about building something in Shreveport for Shreveport and I didn’t want to just let my name to something.”

Beard and Southwood set the standard for high school basketball in this area, but it came from humble beginnings. “Today’s players have so much access to skills trainers and are always evolving,” Beard said. “I was out in my backyard practicing on a dirt court. I was very fortunate to have a coach like Steve McDowell. He laid the foundation for me and gave me the skills and values that go along with being a champion in this sport.”

“She was always the first one there to practice and the last to leave,” McDowell said. “She wanted to be the very best she could be. She had such a will to win.”

Beard did plenty of it. She went on to play at Duke and became the only player in NCAA history to score 2,600 points with 500 assists and 400 steals. In 2004, she won the Wade Trophy, given to the Outstanding Player in women’s college basketball.

She began her pro career with the Washington Mystics but injuries forced her to miss two complete seasons. In 2012, she returned to play for the Los Angeles Sparks and was part of the 2016 team that won the WNBA title.

Beard retired – “probably a year too late,” she said – in 2019.

“People always say that they didn’t envision themselves being what they turned out to be, but I did,” Beard said, “because I know the amount of work I put into it. I knew what my goals were. I trusted myself and the people I put around me. I’m grateful for everything I’ve been able to accomplish, but I also envisioned it from the get-go.

“My professional career was rewarding,” she said. “That’s the pinnacle for women’s sports. But on top of that, I was able to build relationships that I value more than anything.”

Women’s basketball certainly evolved during Beard’s career. “What I notice more than anything these days is that these women are taking ownership of who they are and really see themselves as a business,” she said. “When you do that, you take more stake in everything else that goes in it. The way that you eat. The way that you work out. The way you present yourself on the court. And the way you present yourself off the court.”

That’s why for those in the 318 Foundation, it doesn’t matter if a student has ever shot a basketball. “We have some life-changing experiences for young girls,” Beard said. “We had two young women, who had never been out of Shreveport, in (Washington) D.C. last week at a leadership camp.”

All of the success Alana Beard has had circles back to those days practicing on that backyard dirt court and her career at Southwood.

“Shreveport raised me,” Beard said. “Shreveport is why I am who I am. I think a lot of people who are raised here go out and gain all of those experience in the world and don’t return. I’ve always wanted to be different in that sense. I’ve acquired a lot of experience over the last 20 years. What better way to share that than in the community that raised you?”

Contact JJ at johnjamesmarshall@yahoo.com

Bossier City on Arena Football League radar

/ Megan Lowe
THERE’S A CHANCE, BUT …:  A revival of arena football in Bossier City is being discussed, but playing in 2024 seems unlikely. (Photo courtesy of deadfootball.com)

By TONY TAGLAVORE, Journal Sports

Could arena football be coming back to Bossier City next year?

Probably not, but the Shreveport-Bossier Journal has learned there have been talks between management of Brookshire Grocery Arena, and the Arena Football League (AFL).

The AFL has been dormant since its 2019 season but is planning a comeback in 2024.

“ASM Global, the management company for Brookshire Grocery Arena, has been in discussions with the Arena Football League about having a team here in Bossier City,” Brookshire Grocery Arena General Manager Becky Bonnevier told the Journal Monday. “However, it is not likely that this will happen in 2024.”

The reason there is more pessimism than optimism is the lack of days the arena is available.

“They’re looking for weekend dates in the first and second quarters,” she said, “and most of those dates are already booked in 2024.”

Last week, the AFL announced plans to have 16 teams located throughout the country. One of those teams was announced as “Louisiana.” Following that news, TMZ Sports reported that the Louisiana team would be located in Lake Charles. However, the NBC affiliate there, KPLC-TV, quoted a statement from city officials which said Lake Charles “has not been involved in any serious discussions regarding the AFL’s interest in locating a team in the city.”

Bossier City was home to the relatively popular Battle Wings from 2001-2010. For all but the final year, the Battle Wings competed in arenafootball2 (AF2), which was part of the AFL, and consisted of teams in smaller markets.

Arena football is played on a 50-yard field, where it’s not uncommon for teams to routinely score 60 or 70 points each.

Contact Tony at SBJTonyT@gmail.com

Magnolia faces road-heavy schedule in 2023 

/ Megan Lowe

By LEE HILLER, Journal Sports 

Magnolia Charter goes into its fifth year of football coming off its most successful season, two wins against a tremendously challenging slate, but will have to navigate the 2023 season mostly on the road with six road games of the 10 on the schedule. 

First-year head coach Anthony Johnson will take his squad to Lake Charles the first game of the campaign to face powerful Lake Charles Prep.  

Half of its home schedule follows in the next couple weeks. General Trass and East Iberville both come to Shreveport in Weeks 2 and 3 respectively.  

The Mariners then take to the road for their District 1-1A opener at Homer. The Pelicans are coming off a state runner-up finish a year after  winning their first state championship since 1939. 

A home game with Mansfield will mark the first meeting of the two schools. 

Four consecutive 1-1A games make up the hardest part of the schedule. 

A trek to Minden to play Glenbrook is on the schedule to start October. The Apaches are coming off a highly successful season that ended in a slim state quarterfinal loss to eventual state champion Ouachita Christian. 

On to Plain Dealing, one of the two teams the Mariners defeated last season.  

A pair of playoff teams come up in Weeks 8 and 9 with games at Haynesville, then Arcadia. 

The final game of the season is a home date with Ringgold, the other team Magnolia defeated in 2022. 

2023 Magnolia Charter football schedule 

Sep. 1 at Lake Charles Prep 

Sep. 8 General Trass 

Sep. 15 East Iberville 

Sep. 22 at Homer 

Sep. 29 Mansfield 

Oct. 6 at Glenbrook 

Oct. 13 at Plain Dealing 

Oct. 20 at Haynesville 

Oct. 27 at Arcadia 

Nov. 3 Ringgold 

Byrd’s Marler makes Lyons’ State Am vision prophetic with sparkling play

/ Megan Lowe
CHAMPIONSHIP MOMENT: Jake Marler of Shreveport, a Byrd HS alumnus, smiles after clinching the Louisiana State Amateur golf championship Sunday at Southern Trace Country Club. (Photo  courtesy Louisiana Golf Association)

JOURNAL SPORTS

Eddie Lyons has seen a thing or two in local, and state, golf circles, so when he predicted youth would prevail in the 104th Louisiana State Amateur, it resonated.

The fact the tournament was hosted at Southern Trace Country Club in Shreveport was also noteworthy, since there’s no shortage of outstanding young talent on the links.

Emerging as the champion of the prestigious event – won nine times between 1945-59 by Shreveporter and Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer Jimmy McGonagill, five consecutively – was another rising local star, Byrd High graduate and UL-Lafayette junior Jake Marler.

Marler opened the week last Thursday with a 1-under-71, then shooting a 4-under 68 on Friday and a 3-under 69 on Saturday. Marler made the turn at even-par 36 in Sunday’s final round before posting a birdie at No. 10 and 15. The southpaw claimed the title with a tap-in on the par-5, No. 18.

Lyons, 70, the 1991 State Am champion and a fixture atop the local golf scene for many years, has a half-century (plus a year) in experience in the state championship. He told Shreveport-Bossier Journal writer John James Marshall last week that youth would be served.

Shreveport’s Eric Ricard won in 2013, the last time the State Am was contested at Southern Trace, which went through nearly $4 million in renovations two years ago. It was the sixth time the event has been hosted by Southern Trace.

Marler helped the Ragin’ Cajuns claim the 2023 Sun Belt Conference title and earn a berth to the NCAA Championships.

He finished 9-under for the four days of the tourney, with 18 birdies and only nine bogies.  He is the first Cajun golfer since 1996 to claim the prestigious title.

Shreveporter Charlie Bell finished 14th at 3-over. Local Burke Alford tied for 20th with a 4-over total.

Lyons made the cut and finished 26th at 10-over, while Chance Shell of Shreveport and Benton’s  Craig Barnes were among those tied for 26th at plus-11.

Marler won by three shots, topping Ruston’s Hunter Battles and Jay Mendell of Lafayette, who tied for second.

Jason Kuperman was the last local to win the crown away from Shreveport, prevailing in 2006 in Baton Rouge. Craig Webb was a two-time winner (1994, 1999) after another Shreveporter, Jay Pierson, took the 1988 State Am title.

Winners’ names are inscribed on the unique trophy, a sterling silver replica of the Louisiana State Capitol commissioned in 1934 by Gov. Huey Long. The trophy is on display at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame museum in Natchitoches.

BPCC Theatre presents Titanic supernatural mystery “Scotland Road”

/ cpoole003

Written by Jeffrey Hatcher, “Scotland Road” is a captivating play that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. The performances will take place on August 18, 19, 25, and 26 at 7:30 p.m., with additional matinee shows on August 20 and 27 at 2:00 p.m. in the Stephen W. Slaughter Theatre in Building C on the BPCC campus, 6220 East Texas Street, Bossier City. This thought-provoking production is recommended for teenage and older audiences.

The story revolves around a perplexing incident in which a young woman, dressed in nineteenth-century attire, is discovered floating on an iceberg in the middle of the North Atlantic. After being rescued, the woman utters only one word: “Titanic.” Intrigued by her enigmatic references to a place called “Scotland Road,” a mysterious man named John has arranged to interrogate her for six days.

John’s objective is to unravel the truth behind the woman’s story, prove her to be an imposter, and uncover her true identity. As the play progresses, the characters’ identities come into question, leading to a shocking turn of events. Throughout their journey, John and Winifred, played by Blaine Fultz and Sarah Noelle Foster respectively, will unveil a shared secret that will culminate in a final voyage to Scotland Road.

The cast features Blaine Fultz as John, Sarah Noelle Foster as Halbrech, Riley Burns as The Woman, and Lauren Holland as Frances Kittle. The stage management will be handled by Johnathon Houghes, with Brody Hines serving as the assistant stage manager.

Prepare to be captivated by “Scotland Road” as it explores themes of mystery, identity, and the haunting legacy of the Titanic. Get ready for an evening or afternoon of suspense and intrigue as this talented cast brings Jeffrey Hatcher’s gripping play to life on stage. 

The show will also travel to Michigan City, Indiana for special performances at the Canterbury Summer Theatre on August 4-6.

For teenage and older audiences. Visit www.ticketsource.us/bpcc-theatre for ticket information or call The BPCC Theatre Box Office at 318-678-6021.

You’re invited to this week’s celebration of Louisiana sports greatness in Natchitoches

/ NPJ
LOUISIANA GREATS: Members of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame’s Class of 2020 gathered with previously-inducted members on stage. This Legends Lineup concludes each year’s induction ceremony and is a photo favorite for guests.

There are football legends, a women’s basketball great, four baseball icons, a two-time USA Olympian, a world-renowned weightlifting champion with an amazing life story, and five LSU Tigers.

They – and a fun-filled slate of events — are among the reasons to be in Natchitoches Thursday, Friday evening and Saturday, to enjoy the 2023 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration.

Festivities include three free events, and four others which require admission charges. Only the grand finale, the Saturday evening Induction Reception and Ceremony presented by State Farm Agents of Louisiana, is a dress up affair.

Two – the Friday lunchtime Bowling Bash presented by BOM, in Alexandria at Four Seasons Bowling Center, and the free Saturday morning New Orleans Saints and Pelicans Junior Training Camp on the Northwestern State campus – are activity-filled.

Another – the free Friday night Rockin’ River Fest Concert featuring Rockin’ Dopsie and The Zydeco Twisters, and rising country artist Jason Ashley, along with a 10-minute fireworks show over Cane River – is activity-optional, dancing encouraged.

The concert also features a free kids zone presented by Louisiana Propane Dealers with football, basketball, golf and science fun on the Natchitoches riverbank.

Tickets for the Bowling Bash, the Friday night VIP Taste of Tailgating party at the concert, and the big finale, the Induction Reception and Ceremony, are available at LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255. The Saturday noon Round Table Luncheon is already sold out.

Advance registration at LaSportsHall.com for kids 7-17 is required for the free Junior Training Camp, which will feature many of the 2023 inductees participating as coaches in football and basketball.

Two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning (from New Orleans) joins four-time WNBA All-Star Alana Beard (a Shreveport native with Natchitoches roots) and College World Series champion LSU baseball coach Paul Mainieri in a star-studded 12-member induction class.

The Class of 2023 also includes New Orleans native and resident Ron Washington, who managed the Texas Rangers to a pair of World Series appearances and in 2021 helped the Atlanta Braves win the world’s championship (and is still the Braves’ third base coach); two-time LSU track and field USA Olympian and world champion Walter Davis from Arnaudville; and Slidell native, Tulane great and Chicago Bears two-time Pro Bowl running back Matt Forte.

Also set for induction are All-American LSU pitcher Paul Byrd, a 14-year Major League Baseball veteran who made the 1999 All-Star Game; Shreveport native Wendell Davis, who shattered LSU football receiving records before heading to the NFL; multiple national champion and world class weightlifter Walter Imahara, a Baton Rouge florist and UL-Lafayette legend who as a child spent 2 ½ years in a Japanese American internment camp in California; and retired Baton Rouge-Parkview Baptist baseball coach M.L. Woodruff, whose teams claimed 11 state championships.

Two south Louisiana sports journalists, Bruce Brown of Lafayette and longtime New Orleans Times-Picayune high school reporter Lori Lyons, will also be honored.

The Class of 2023 will be enshrined Saturday night at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 64th Induction Celebration.

The Thursday reception at the museum, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free. As noted above, camp participants need to register online in advance.

The 2023 Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors. 

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke, Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com .  

Remembering Estelle Christian

/ NPJ

July 13, 1943 — July 23, 2023

Funeral services will be held for Mrs. Estelle Christian on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Chapel in Arcadia. Burial will follow at Alabama Cemetery. The visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath. Bro. Taff Watts and Bro. Jeff Hurst will officiate the services.

Estelle, lovingly known as “Aunt Stay”, was born July 13, 1943, in Arcadia Louisiana to DeWitt and Maudie Woodard Christian. She was a faithful member of Alabama Baptist Church. Aunt Stay loved the Lord and showed His kindness and mercy every day. She was a loving and happy person and enjoyed a good laugh. Her joy was her nieces and nephews. She took great care of them, whether it be watching them while sick, visiting with them, and always gave them presents on their birthdays and at Christmas. Aunt Stay was a wonderful, God loving woman, who will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Aunt stay is preceded in death by her parents DeWitt and Maudie Christian, brothers Herbert Christian and Woodard Christian, and by half-brothers Purvis Christian and Ralph Christian.

Those left to cherish her memory are her siblings, Kenneth Christian, Barbara Christian Ellis, and Louis Christian, daughter Suzanne Greer and husband Glenn, grandsons Joseph Greer and wife Sage, and Holden Greer and wife Brandi, by 5 great grandchildren and one due in February, and by numerous nieces, nephews, and loving family and friends.

Honoring Aunt Stay as pallbearers will be Bob Christian, Aaron Christian, Christopher Council, Wesley Council, Brandon Ellis, Ryan Priestly, Marc Pearce, and Mark Grafton.

Louisiana retains LifeLock to offer a year of free credit monitoring for residents impacted by the MOVEIt data breach

/ cpoole003

The Office of Motor Vehicles announced that they have retained Norton LifeLock to offer one year of free credit monitoring and identity theft protection for Louisiana residents impacted by the recent MOVEIt data breach. The complimentary 12-month package includes LifeLock Standard™ identity theft protection.

To activate your membership online and get protection at no cost to you, please see enrollment instructions available at nextsteps.la.gov. OMV will also be emailing notices to individuals with an email on file whose information was involved in the incident.

Additionally, OMV has established a toll-free call center open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week to answer questions that individuals may have. If you believe your information was involved and have questions about this incident, please call (866) 861-8717.

These resources are being offered in response to the MOVEIt data security incident announced last month that involved personal information of individuals who were issued a Louisiana driver’s license, identification card and/or vehicle registrations.

OMV encourages all Louisianans whose information was involved in this incident to actively monitor for the possibility of fraud and identity theft by reviewing your financial statements and credit reports for any unauthorized activity. If you notice any unauthorized activity, contact the relevant financial institution or the credit bureau reporting the activity immediately.

For more information on how to protect your identity and a list of FAQ, visit nextsteps.la.gov. To read the official notice posted by OMV, visit expresslane.org.

Notice of Death – July 24, 2023

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Patricia A. Criner Jones
November 29, 1948 – July 18, 2023
Service: Tuesday, July 25, 3023, 9 am at Forest Park Cemetery West, Shreveport.

Kimberly Salter Carroll
December 27, 1968 — July 19, 2023
Visitation: Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 5 pm at Rose Neath Funeral Home – Shreveport Marshall.

Jerry A. Stiles
February 11, 1944 — July 20, 2023
Visitation: July 26, 2023, 9 am at Bistineau Baptist Church.
Service: July 26, 2023, 11 am at Bistineau Cemetery.

Kenneth Bryan Middleton
February 27, 1951 — July 22, 2023
Visitation: July 25, 2023, 5 am at Rose Neath Funeral Home, Homer.
Service: July 26, 2023, 10 am at Lebanon Cemetery, Homer.

Estelle Christian
July 13, 1943 — July 23, 2023
Visitation: Tuesday, July 25, 2023, 5 pm at Roes Neath Funeral Homes – Arcadia
Service: Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 10 am at Roes Neath Funeral Homes – Arcadia

Herbert “Butch” Casey, Jr.
January 9, 1946 — July 21, 2023
Visitation: Tuesday, July 25, 2023, 9 am at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Arcadia.
Service: Tuesday, July 25, 2023, 11 am at Atkins  Cemetery, Arcadia.

Charles Howard Clawson
February 3, 1938 – July 18, 2023
Visitation: Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 4 pm at Osborn Funeral Home
Service: Thursday, July 27, 2023, 11 am at Osborn Funeral Home

Shawney Ray West
October 26, 1946 – July 1, 2023
Service: Saturday, July 29, 2023, 2 pm at Ellerbe Road Methodist Church.

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