Daniel Ralph Haire (“Haire”) was convicted in 2022 for slaying an associate with a crossbow in Broadmoor and then attempting to get rid of the body by  dumping it at Caddo Parish lakeside park.  In a recent legal ruling, the court affirmed the 70-year sentence imposed on Daniel Ralph Haire in a manslaughter case, shedding light on the severity of the offense and Haire’s extensive criminal history.

The case stemmed from an incident where Haire, observing Rodney Nordby (“Nordby”) in his backyard, fatally shot him with a crossbow. Despite being familiar with Nordby and having the opportunity to seek assistance, Haire opted for lethal force, followed by attempts to conceal evidence and dispose of the body.

Haire’s conviction for manslaughter, a responsive verdict to the initial charge of second-degree murder, provided him a substantial benefit by reducing his potential exposure from mandatory life imprisonment without benefits. However, the court upheld the 70-year sentence, considering Haire’s status as a second felony offender and his significant criminal record, including prior convictions for theft, drug possession, and introducing contraband into a penal institution.

Although arguments were raised regarding the excessive nature of the sentence, the court deemed it constitutional and justifiable, given the gravity of the offense and Haire’s repeated disregard for the law. Additionally, the possibility of parole eligibility after serving 65% of the sentence was acknowledged, providing a nuanced perspective on the length of Haire’s imprisonment.

The ruling underscores the consequences of criminal behavior and the need for accountability within the justice system. Despite efforts to mitigate his sentence, Haire’s actions and criminal history ultimately influenced the court’s decision, highlighting the importance of considering both legal principles and individual circumstances in sentencing.

Law enforcement is seeking assistance in identifying an individual in a theft of political signs casein Caddo Parish.

It is alleged the man drove up to the property and proceeded to take political signs in the 9400 block of Forbing Road, Shreveport, Caddo Parish.

If you recognize the individual or the truck, please contact one of the following:

Shreveport Police: 318-673-7300
Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office: 318-681-0611

JOURNAL STAFF

Huntington’s and Parkway’s girls basketball teams are in a familiar position for this time of year, a part of the LHSAA state playoff final four now known as Marsh Madness in Hammond at Southeastern Louisiana’s University Center.

Huntington is the top-ranked team in the Select Division I bracket and will play No. 5 Woodlawn-Baton Rouge (24-9) at 1 p.m. today. The Lady Raiders take a 29-5 record into the semifinal matchup, the fifth straight season with 20 wins or more, all under head coach Brian Shyne.

“The mentality is simple. The challenge is not done yet. We have two more games left, so we approach it one game at a time, because each is a high-caliber opponent,” said Shyne. “We’re being very, very detailed in everything we do.”

Today’s opponent has some commonality with Huntington, he said.

“They are very aggressive. They rebound well. They are a team that really scraps, plays with a  lot of energy. They do have a couple of guards who can play,” he said. “We need to stay focused, make sure we’re playing the way defensively we’ve played all year, and make the right decisions on offense, sharing the ball, moving the ball and playing at our fast pace.”

The Lady Raiders are not backing down from their No. 1 seeding. They plan to live up to it, and while Shyne respects his team’s opponent, he is confident in his squad.

“They’re not as skilled as we are. They play intense, and they do have a couple of guards who can play, but I think we’re on another level to edge them out,” said Shyne.

The Lady Raiders are making their fourth appearance in the Marsh Madness tournament in the last five years and sixth in the school’s history. They have a 2-3 record in semifinal games and 2-5 overall mark losing to Southwood in the 1995 Class 5A state final and to LaGrange in the 2021 Class 4A final.

Huntington is led in scoring by junior Carley Hamilton’s 18.1 points per game, followed by sophomore Kyndal Graham at 16.7. Juniors Jaila Marshall (9.9 per game) and Jamari Bell (8.7) are both just under 10 a game and senior Zanayah Lefear scores at a 5.8 points per game clip. Hamilton (4.7), Marshall (4.4) and Bell (4.1) lead the team in rebounds per game.

Parkway (28-6) is the defending Non-Select Division I champion and making its third consecutive trip to Hammond and Marsh Madness, the fourth overall. The Panthers play top-ranked Walker (35-1) today at 6:15 p.m. They have won two of the three semifinal games and one of two finals.

Chloe Larry scored a season-high 33 points in a 58-49 quarterfinal win over St. Amant. It was her third 30-point game of the year. She takes a 19.9 points per game average into today’s game. Junior Dakota Howard averages 15.1 per game and Zara Baker 8.3.

Overall Parkway scores at a 59.4 per game clip and allows just 36.2.

How Huntington has fared in the final four:

1979: lost to Hammond (featuring Kim Mulkey), 60-49 (4A)
1995: d. Mt. Carmel, 64-63; lost to Southwood, 44-37 (5A)
2020 (2): lost to 6-Warren Easton, 66-63 (4A)
2021 (2): d. 3-Neville, 45-37; lost to 1-LaGrange, 49-42
2022 (5): lost to 1-Warren Easton, 59-55 (4A)

How Parkway has fared in the final four:

2008 (4): lost to 1-Ellender, 71-44 (4A)
2022 (2): d. 3-Lafayette, 55-54; lost to 4-Ponchatoula, 80-79, 2OTs(5A)
2023 (2): d. 3-Barbe, 61-28; d. 5-Ponchatoula, 80-57 (5A)

By JOHN JAMES MARSHALL, Journal Sports

It’s always in the back of an athlete’s mind and the inevitability of it is something they’d rather not think about.

Centenary’s Seth Thomas is no different.

The 6-foot-5 senior has been playing basketball all his life, including an outstanding five-year career with the Gents. These days, he’s got a lot to look forward to as Centenary heads into the NCAA Division III Tournament Friday in San Antonio.

He’s also got something to not look forward to.

Thomas is faced with his basketball career being over. Every game could be his last game. There’s only one way to avoid that – keep winning.

“The other day, Coach (Chris Dorsey) was saying that could be my last practice,” Thomas said. “I’m just going out there every day thankful to be here and thankful to practice one more day and hope that carries over to the games.”

For now, he is focused on the Gents’ opening game against Nebraska Wesleyan Friday at 5:05 p.m.

“At the beginning of the season, we had a team meeting and everyone was focused on winning a championship,” said Thomas, a Kilgore, Texas, native. “I knew everyone was willing to put in the work to get it done.”

Playing in the NCAA Tournament is not a new experience for Thomas. He is one of two holdovers from the 2019-20 team that made it to the D3 Tournament but lost 83-81 to UT-Dallas. (Thomas is in his fifth year of eligibility because that season did not count against his eligibility due to the pandemic.)

“My freshman year we had a great group of teammates,” Thomas said. “We fell short on a ball that went in and out. Back then, it was just the unknown because I had just come out of high school. It was just a surreal feeling. But now that I’ve been there and have that experience, I feel like we have the team that can get the job done.”

It’s a far different role for him this time around. He is the Gents’ leading scorer at 16.2 points per game – he’s the only player averaging in double digits – and leads in other ways as well. Thomas plays far more minutes per game than any other Gent.

“It’s definitely been a challenge to take on the leadership role,” he said. “Learning how to lead each player and bring them all together is something I had to learn. But I’ve had teammates come to me and say they were all behind me and that they were looking up to me. It just means a lot to me that the guys look up to me.”

His favorite moment came when the third-seeded Gents won the conference championship at home last weekend in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference championship game. The Gold Dome came alive as the Gents came away with 83-76 win over Colorado College. Thomas had 18 points to go along with 33 points by Tykeem Singleton, the other holdover from the 2019-20 season.

“Just to see all the people who had never won a championship raise the trophy and cut the nets down and all the smiles, that was special,” Thomas said. “It was a great feeling to play in front of a big crowd.”

Despite leading the team in scoring and rebounding (7.9 per game), Thomas points to another aspect of his game as being a strength. “I have crazy vision,” he said. “I feel like my IQ is pretty high for the type of player I am. I just see the floor a certain way that allows me to make certain passes that are kind of ridiculous, but it gets the job done. I feel like I’m good at making my teammates better.”

Not surprisingly, Thomas also leads the team in assists at 3.2 per game.

Centenary (17-11) will be an underdog against the 19^th ranked Prairie Wolves, who are 23-4 and have made it to 18 Division III Tournaments, including five trips to the Final Four.

A win by the Gents would set up a meeting with the winner of Trinity (23-3) and University of Texas at Dallas (18-9) Saturday night.

Contact JJ at johnjamesmarshall@yahoo.com

BATON ROUGE — This column is not a defense of Pete Maravich.

No one could successfully defend the Pistol for any length of time, so why start now?

This is just a reminder that LSU basketball legend Pete Maravich’s place in college basketball history is incomparable, no matter how many narratives have been shoved down our throats anytime one of today’s players challenges the NCAA men’s career scoring record of 3,667 points he established in 83 games through three varsity seasons.

Last year, it was Detroit Mercy’s Antoine Davis scoring 3,664 points in 144 games in five varsity seasons. Since Mercy finished 14-19, not one rinky-dink cash and carry-created out-of-thin air post-season-tourney outside the legit NCAA and NIT tourneys bothered to invite Mercy just so he could break Maravich’s record.

This season, it’s Iowa women’s star Caitlin Clark, who has scored 3,617 points in 128 games heading into Iowa’s Wednesday night date at Minnesota.

She will surpass Maravich’s numbers probably in a home game on Sunday. When that happens, Clark, who has averaged 32.1 points this season and 28.3 for her career, will have played 47 more games than Maravich. That fact alone that makes the likely ESPN-driven narrative she’s about to become all-time college basketball’s leading scorer extremely hollow.

She’s not even women’s college basketball’s all-time leading scorer.

Pearl Moore scored 4,061 points in four seasons from 1975 to 1979 for Francis Marion University. There’s also Lynette Woodard, who scored 3,649 points for Kansas from 1978-81.

Both schools were members of the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women, the governing body of women’s athletics before the NCAA took over that duty in 1981-82. NCAA snobbery has never recognized any national championships won or records set in the AIAW era.

By the way, Pearl, Woodard, Lucy Harris of Delta State and Nancy Liberman of Old Dominion are all former NAIA greats who have been inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.

Which makes the NCAA’s omission of AIAW stats and accomplishments even more insulting.

Just as absurd is the Maravich-Clark comparison. The only things they have in common are rail-thin physiques and competitive fire.

The obvious arguments why Maravich and Clark’s career scoring numbers aren’t comparable – there was no 3-point line, no shot clock and no freshman eligibility when Maravich played collegiately (therefore his 741 points in 19 games on the freshman team don’t count his career totals) – are all valid.

Yes, if Maravich played when there was a 3-point line, his career scoring average of 44.2 points per game would have jumped well into the 50s.

Having watched all 48 of Maravich’s home games (37 varsity, 11 freshman) in person, I can safely estimate at least 10 of his 16.7 made field goals per game in varsity play would have been behind today’s 3-point line.

Forty-one percent of Clark’s points are from 3-pointers.

With no shot clock, there were games for Maravich when opponents slowed their offense to a crawl, like in his senior season when LSU played at Oregon State.

Offensively, OSU slowed the game with long periods of passing the ball back and forth to each other. While playing defense, a frustrated Maravich sat on the floor at one point in front of OSU guard Freddie Boyd (who had the ball) and told Boyd, “Can you make a layup now?

Defensively, the Beavers decided to foul Maravich frequently and physically wear him out. OSU held the Pistol to 8 field goals …  but he drained 30 of 31 free throws (the 30 made freebies still stands as an NCAA single-game record) and finished with 46 points in an 86-75 win.

Clark hasn’t consistently faced gimmick defenses designed to solely stop her. She probably hasn’t seen many box-and-1 alignments or triangle-and-2 schemes or constant double-teams or defenders physically trying to knock the snot out of her every possession.

Maravich faced all of that. Every game. Every minute. Every possession.

His detractors say his scoring average was directly related to his 38.1 field goal attempts a game, the byproduct of LSU head coach Press Maravich (Pete’s dad) giving him the greenest light in college basketball history.

That can’t be denied. But think of how hard Maravich had to work to launch almost 40 attempts, the pressure he had to score his average every time he suited up because every team wanted to jam the Pistol.

Maravich scored 30 or more points in almost 90 percent (74 of 83) of his varsity games – 4 games in the 60s, 24 in the 50s, 29 in the 40s and 17 in the 30s.

Clark has scored 30 points or more in 41.4 percent of her college games (53 of 128) – 12 games in the 40s, 41 in the 30s).

Nice numbers, but nowhere near Maravich’s universe.

The one thing Clark will never hear from her fan base when scoring in the 30s in a game that Maravich did hear when his scoring dipped below 40 is this:

“Man, Pete just seemed off tonight. He didn’t play that great.”

Yep, that much was expected from him every game.

So, congrats Caitlin Clark for an excellent college career and for being the inspiration for thousands of little girls with big dreams.

But you’re not Pete Maravich.

Not unless you can score 44.2 points per game for your entire career and throw some of the most wildly imaginative passes anyone has ever seen before and since.

There’s been only one Pistol Pete. And no one – man, woman or alien – will ever replicate his points, passing and panache.

Contact Ron at ronhigginsmedia@gmail.com

Marsh Madness is upon us.  That’s right!  That special time of the year when state champions are crowned runs over the next two weeks.  The top girls’ teams have begun their final trek to see who will be state champs in Hammond, while the boys will do the same next week in Lake Charles.  However, there is a little bit more business that must be finished. 

For the teams of Shreveport-Bossier (and across the state), winning the next two or three games is the most important thing right now.  As usual, you know we have our take on things.  And in this 9^th installment of the SBJ Prep Hoops report, we will review just that. 

Black Friday

When people hear the term “Black Friday,” it is usually associated with the day after Thanksgiving shopping “holiday.”  In this particular case; however, Black Friday was the day six of the 10 boys teams in the twin cities bowed out of the playoffs.  Evangel and Huntington were stunned at home by E.D. White and Bonnabel.  Airline lost an overtime thriller with East St. John and BTW, Woodlawn, and Parkway all lost on the road.  The only win on the night was by Division II Non-select No. 5 Bossier as they dispatched AJ Ellender.  

Calvary Baptist stunned

When I looked at the Cavaliers’ matchup with No. 15 Episcopal, I knew that coach Vic Morris and his troops would have a battle on their hands in their Division III Select matchup.  Little did I know that they would be upset.  However, that is what happened Tuesday night as the Knights gave Calvary their earliest exit under coach Morris with a 63-59 upset win.  Episcopal used an 8-0 run midway through the third to grab a lead it would never relinquish.  The hot shooting of Ronald “Bubba” Strong (28 on the night) kept the Cavs in it as they were down three late.  However, they could never come up with the tying bucket.

Shreve survives

“We got destroyed on the boards.  We had two players with four fouls and one fouled out.  We missed ten free throws.  We were sloppy on offense and defense was optional.”  Those were the words of Captain Shreve coach Corey Deans as he spoke about the Gators’ 41-37 victory over McKinley on Tuesday.  Marcus Lofton led the Gators with 14 points and the Gators did hold McKinley to 9 points per quarter.  They have to be better on Friday because it was one of their worst performances of the season.  This time of year though, survive and advance is the name of the game. 

Same ole stuff, dog, just a different day …

The Southwood Cowboys seem to be stuck in a time loop.  For the second year in a row, a highly-rated guard from New Orleans comes to town and almost shoots them out of the playoffs.  Last year it was Autrail Manning (John Curtis).  This year, Eli Pichon and Brother Martin came to “The Ranch” and almost sent the Pokes packing. 

Pichon hit 3-point shots at the end of each quarter in a game-high 23 points.  However, Tre Lars and Jeremiah Evans combined for 39 to give the Cowboys the 61-56 win.  Their reward? A Shreveport team for the second straight year in the quarters.  While they lost to Huntington in their third matchup last season, they hope to fair better this year as they face Captain Shreve yet again.  Get your popcorn ready for the 7 p.m. tip on Friday. 

Nothing bigger than the B

Defending state champion Bossier defeated Opelousas 56-43 to advance to the quarters behind newcomer Justin Slaid’s 20 points.  Their reward? Another meeting with last year’s state runner-up, Carroll.  This will be the fourth consecutive season the Bearkats have faced the Bulldogs in the playoffs.  The last time Carroll hosted the game, the Bulldogs won a quarterfinal OT thriller to bounce Bossier.  Bossier will need its best effort of the season to leave the south side of Monroe with a victory.  With Marsh Madness on the line, anything can happen. 

Marsh Madness Hammond style

The Huntington Lady Raiders will kick off play against Woodlawn-BR today with a trip to the Division I Select title game on the line.  This may be the Raiders’ toughest test to date.  Tip time for this one is 1 o’clock.  Parkway will have a daunting task as defending Division I Non-Select champions against top- rated Walker.  The Lady Panthers probably are just as athletic as Walker.  They have that championship experience and that may make a difference in a close game.  Well, by dinnertime Thursday night, we will know if Shreveport-Bossier has representation in the title games for Division I Select and/or Non-Select.

Possible All-State players

All-state locks (Jeremiah Evans, Rondae Hill, Carley Hamilton, Chloe Larry, Kyndal Graham, Jyrin Sowell).

All-state likelies (Colossians Mason-Jones, Javon Johnson, Dakota Howard).

We will talk state titles, district title, all-district teams, and much more from Lake Charles next week on the Shreveport-Bossier Prep Hoops report. 

Contact Preston at preston9360@gmail.com or Twitter handle @peedee1906

JOURNAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY’S SCORES

Caddo Magnet 16, Southwood 0

Caddo Magnet 11, Loyola 5

Red River 15-15, Bossier 1-2

Mansfield 20, Plain Dealing 10

District 1-4A

Northwood 17, BTW 0

TODAY’S GAMES

Florien at Benton

Northwood at Caddo Magnet

Evangel at Haughton

Parkway at St. Mary’s

Calvary at West Monroe

Wossman at Green OaksPlain

Dealing at Haynesville

District 1-5A

Byrd at Southwood

District 1-4A

Woodlawn at Bossier

JOURNAL SPORTS

WEDNESDAY’S SCORES

Southwood 16, BTW 2
Mansfield 7-12, Woodlawn 1-3

TODAY’S GAMES

BTW at Mansfield
Plain Dealing at Bossier

Trey Altick Classic

Airline vs. Jena, at Neville, 4:30 p.m.
Byrd vs. Destrehan, at Ruston, 7 p.m.
Calvary vs. Vilonia (Ark.), at Cedar Creek, 7 p.m.

Northwood Tournament

Loyola at Benton, 6 p.m.
Evangel vs. Haughton, at Northwood, 4 p.m.
Parkway at Northwood, 6:30 p.m. 

As an outdoor writer/broadcaster, there are several things on my work schedule. For instance, every week I write an outdoor column appearing in seven publications around north and central Louisiana. In addition, I produce and record four weekly radio programs. When opportunities are presented, I write an occasional article for magazines.

One thing that has been a regular assignment for the past 10 years or so is to contact, interview and write articles for Louisiana Sportsman magazine and web site about trophy bucks taken in Louisiana. I enjoy everything I do for outdoors media but especially rewarding is getting to do articles on these big bucks that come to my attention either by my being contacted by successful hunters or by browsing social media to find photos hunters post when they are successful in downing a trophy.

Granted, I don’t get them all as some hunters prefer to keep their success under wraps as they have no interest in sharing details preferring to keep details and locations secret. I totally accept that. If I had a secret honey hole where I find my trophies, I might be reluctant to share too many details. Even so, I average getting to write articles on at least twenty-five big bucks each season. The ones I do write about give me an idea of what type of bucks on average are taken each season.

From my contacts for the season just ended, my conclusion is that the number and quality of bucks this year was average or maybe slightly below average. Drought conditions this past summer affecting browse plants no doubt contributed to this season’s somewhat lower results. 

In past years, my articles have covered an occasional buck weighing in excess of 300 pounds and a few have resulted in impressive scores of 270 inches or better. I did articles on 30 trophy bucks this past season with buck with the heaviest body weighing just over 230 pounds. The highest scoring buck I located measured 190 inches of antler mass.

Looking over the statistics of bucks taken last season covered in articles I wrote were impressive, but not quite as eye-catching as some in seasons past.

The highest number of bucks I found were taken in Union Parish with five while Beauregard Parish produced four, indicating that you are likely to find a trophy really from one end of the state to the other. Bucks were taken in twenty-two parishes from north to central to the delta region to southwest Louisiana.

How about antler measurements? The thirty bucks in my articles averaged just over 156 inches of mass while the average number of antler points were 10.26. How about body weights? This came out to 192.6 pounds per buck.

During the month of October, nine bucks were reported, November had the highest number with 15 while December produces six. 

Four bucks were taken by traditional archery equipment, two with crossbows and the majority, 24, fell to high powered rifles.

A number of trophies were taken by happenstance. They just showed up. Many of the more successful hunters, however, work all year to prepare food plots, keep minerals available, especially during spring and summer when new antlers and muscle mass are growing.   

I’m already looking forward to deer season 2024-25 when we get to do it all over again. Maybe this will be the season with weather conditions improved and I’ll get a call from you or find your photo of your buck on social media. Be assured, if this happens, I’ll be in touch.

Contact Glynn at glynnharris37@gmail.com

Shreveport police have taken decisive action in response to a serious crime, with the arrest of 37-year-old Christopher Christaw on one count of first-degree rape. The arrest, made by the Shreveport Police Sex Crimes Unit, follows a thorough investigation into a reported incident involving an elderly female.

Christopher Christaw now faces serious charges, and if found guilty, he could potentially face life imprisonment for this reprehensible act. The Shreveport Police Department emphasizes its unwavering commitment to ensuring justice for all victims of sexual violence and asserts its determination to pursue perpetrators of such crimes with vigor.

It’s important to note that all suspects, including Christaw, are presumed innocent until proven guilty under state law. The swift action taken by law enforcement underscores the gravity of such offenses and serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to safeguard the community from such heinous acts.

Bossier parish community college (BPCC), the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office (BPSO), and the Bossier City Police Department (BCPD) are set to ink a significant agreement on Monday. This collaborative effort aims to formalize a preferred training partnership tailored for law enforcement personnel.

Under the terms of the agreement, BPCC will facilitate a spectrum of training opportunities designed to equip BPSO and BCPD personnel with essential skills. These offerings will encompass associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, and industry-based credentials crucial for effective law enforcement practice. Moreover, BPCC pledges to extend comprehensive student support services and tuition assistance to eligible members of the law enforcement community.

Chancellor Dr. Rick Bateman, Jr. expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing BPCC’s commitment to nurturing the development of first responders. He remarked, “At Bossier Parish Community College, we understand that investing in the development of our first responders is paramount to fostering safer communities. Our partnership with the Sheriff and the Police Chief underscores our commitment to education and training and the role that these efforts can support public safety.”

This strategic collaboration between BPCC, BPSO, and BCPD exemplifies a proactive approach towards enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement personnel, ultimately contributing to the safety and well-being of the community they serve. Stay tuned for further updates following the signing of this pivotal agreement.

In response to an alarming domestic altercation, Shreveport Police swiftly took action, resulting in the arrest of Rodrenesha Burgy, 34, on February 28, 2024. The incident unfolded on February 24 around 9:55 a.m. in the 1400 block of Highland Avenue.

Officers arrived at the scene to find a male victim suffering from stab wounds, indicating a severe domestic dispute. Following an intensive investigation, Burgy was identified as the prime suspect and promptly apprehended.

Burgy now faces one count of domestic abuse battery with serious bodily injury. Fortunately, the victim’s condition has stabilized, and a full recovery is anticipated.

This incident underscores the critical need for prompt intervention in cases of domestic violence. The Shreveport Police Department emphasizes the availability of resources such as shelters and hotlines for individuals experiencing or witnessing domestic abuse.

It’s important to remember that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The community is urged to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing instances of domestic violence, ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has issued a notice regarding a lane closure on LA 3 (Benton Road) southbound, affecting motorists in Bossier Parish.

Starting from Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at 7:00 a.m., the southbound outside (right) lane of LA 3 will be closed, stretching from Melrose Avenue to Citizens Bank Drive in Bossier City. This closure, expected to last for approximately four weeks, is essential for the progress of the Walter O. Bigby Carriageway project. The project aims to construct a new roadway connecting to Benton Road and is under the management of the City of Bossier City.

During this period, no specific restrictions or permits are mentioned, and alternate routes are not provided. However, it’s crucial to note that this work is subject to weather conditions.

Motorists are urged to exercise caution and patience while navigating through the construction area. Please remain vigilant for work crews and equipment. Additionally, residents in the vicinity should take extra care when driving, walking, or cycling near the active construction zone.

Stay updated for any further developments and drive safely!

In a swift response to a distress call on February 23rd, Shreveport Police officers successfully apprehended 41-year-old Devon Porter following a violent domestic incident at 1712 Point Coupe. The victim, who reported a home invasion and acts of violence perpetrated by Porter, was being assisted by detectives from the Shreveport Police Domestic Violence Unit when K9 officers located the suspect.

Porter attempted to flee the scene but was swiftly apprehended by Shreveport Police K9 unit, Diesel. Following his arrest, Porter was charged with three counts of domestic abuse battery, battery with child endangerment, one count of domestic abuse battery with a dangerous weapon, and one count of home invasion.

Porter, who sustained minor injuries during the incident, was promptly treated at a local area hospital. As per state law, all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP) is thrilled to announce the addition of Lanier Thibodeaux to its team as Director of Marketing and Communication. With over twelve years of experience in marketing strategy, communications, social media planning, media relations, proposal writing, and project management, Lanier brings a wealth of expertise to NLEP.

Lanier’s appointment comes at an opportune time as NLEP prepares to unveil its new five-year strategic plan. This plan will outline target industries for growth and attraction initiatives, as well as strategies to effectively market the region’s assets and resources. Working closely with the Business Development team, Lanier will play a pivotal role in developing a marketing plan that complements the new strategic direction.

Justyn Dixon, CEO of NLEP, expressed confidence in Lanier’s abilities, stating, “Lanier’s experience in the private sector, coupled with her understanding that economic development hinges on effective marketing, will greatly contribute to our team’s mission and her success in this role.”

Prior to joining NLEP, Lanier held several notable marketing positions, including Retail Marketing Director at GMFS LLC, Market Development Senior Associate at KPMG, and Account Executive at Romph Pou Agency. Her extensive background in marketing, public relations, and brand management aligns seamlessly with the objectives of NLEP and the demands of her new position.

Excited about her new role, Lanier shared, “I am eager to collaborate with the team to develop and implement effective strategies that will showcase the exceptional assets of the region and attract new businesses. NLEP plays a crucial role in driving economic development in North Louisiana, and I am thrilled to leverage my experience to support its mission.”

Lanier Thibodeaux’s appointment underscores NLEP’s commitment to fostering economic growth and prosperity in the region. With her leadership, NLEP is well-positioned to advance its strategic goals and strengthen its impact on North Louisiana’s economy.

By Brad Dison

By COURTNEY MONTGOMERY, SBJ Columnist

What is your motivation?

I first embarked on my journey to a healthier lifestyle about 14 years ago when our daughter, Eva, was born. I felt that it was my role as her mom to feed her well and be an example of how to take care of the body God had given me. I also wanted to feel my best, so I would have the energy and stamina to take care of a rambunctious toddler! As I went on to have our other two daughters, Caroline and Madeline, I sought to grow in my knowledge of living a healthy lifestyle. I knew I felt my best when I moved my body daily and ate foods that fueled me.

This routine has evolved from trying to get a very short workout in and eat semi-healthy on little sleep from being up with one of the kids in the middle of the night or just being busy during the day as a stay-at-home mom. So those of you still in the thick of this, give yourself plenty of grace!

Bottom line, I knew as a wife and mom who never slowed down, I needed to do whatever I could on my part to be the healthiest for them and open myself for whatever callings the Lord placed in my path as well. From this, I gained a strong desire to help others in their health and wellness journey. It gives me great joy to see a smile on the face of one of my participants in class, see my personal training clients getting stronger, or seeing my nutrition clients develop healthy eating habits that make them feel amazing.

So I ask you: what’s your motivation? What keeps you going and makes you want to be stronger, healthier, and live life the best you can? Let what motivates you drive you to start a journey that can change your life.

I am a fitness instructor with REFIT Revolution, and at our instructor training, they asked us to find our “why.” Why did I want to become a fitness instructor? Why was I there? My “why” was and still is to impact others and encourage them on their health journeys. I want to see lives changed from the inside out, realizing that they are wonderfully, uniquely made and have so much to offer this world.

By slowly and steadily charging forward, making small changes along the way, realizing your “why” and what motivates you, you will see changes that will last a lifetime and will feel your best to serve those you love, pursue your calling, and make an impact in this world.

Courtney Montgomery, a certified Holistic Nutrition Coach and Registered Nurse, is passionate about enhancing the health of individuals. In her coaching practice, she focuses on instilling a sustainable approach to self-care, rejecting crash diets and body shaming. Courtney teaches clients to embrace intuitive eating, empowering them to trust their bodies and gain confidence in their journey. Excited to share valuable tips, she is dedicated to supporting you on your wellness journey.