Chocolate City has officially opened its new location at 2110 Airline Drive in Bossier City following a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The City of Bossier City congratulated Chocolate City on the opening and welcomed the locally owned business to the community.

The business offers handcrafted treats and desserts and will serve families and visitors in the area.

City officials thanked Chocolate City for choosing to invest in Bossier City and expressed support for the business’s growth and future success.

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Mizzou’s Smith gave I-Bowl fans two times the fun

JOURNAL SPORTS

With college teams in Week Zero games kicking off practices this week, the energy level jumps a bit in college football while the pace changes for the announcement of the  Independence Bowl’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Team roster.

After breaking out the first 30 players on the 50-man roster in groups of five, twice a week, now the bowl will announce the top 20 stars one-by-one, once a week, each Monday.

The All-Time Team’s top 20 begins with one of the most dynamic quarterbacks to play in the local game – one who north Louisiana football fans had the chance to watch twice in three years, former Missouri quarterback Brad Smith.

Smith starred for Missouri in both the 2003 and 2005 Independence Bowls under College Football Hall of Fame head coach Gary Pinkel. In his first appearance in 2003 against Arkansas, Smith passed for 155 yards and rushed for 107 yards, while throwing one interception and rushing for one touchdown. The Tigers fell to the Razorbacks, 27-14, in the 2003 I-Bowl.

Two years later, Smith led Missouri to a 38-31 victory over Steve Spurrier’s South Carolina Gamecocks in 2005. Smith passed for 282 yards, ran for 150 yards and scored four TDs on his way to being named the Offensive Player of the Game. His 150 rushing yards are still the most by a quarterback in an Independence Bowl, and his 432 yards of individual total offense in 2005 still ranks second all-time in a single Independence Bowl – behind Auburn quarterback Dameyune Craig’s 447 yards in the 1996 Independence Bowl.

As one of the few skill position players to start in two Independence Bowls, Smith was easily one of the most productive players in the game’s history. Combining his 2003 and 2005 performances, he amassed 432 passing yards, 257 rushing yards and five TDs against two interceptions.

Smith had a decorated career at Missouri, where he started four straight years and never missed a start. During his redshirt freshman season in 2002, Smith set the record for most rushing yards by a freshman quarterback in FBS history (1,029). That helped propel him to being named the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year and earning first-team Freshman All-American honors. The best season of his career was his senior season in 2005, when he passed for 2,304 yards, rushed for 1,301 yards and contributed 29 total TDs. He was named first-team All-Big 12 that season.

Throughout his four years as a starter in Columbia, Smith rushed for over 1,000 three times and was a part of 102 touchdowns between passing, rushing and receiving. Among his many accolades and records, he was the first player in FBS history to pass for 2,000 yards and rush for 1,000 yards in a single season twice in a career. He was also the first player in the FBS to pass for over 8,000 yards and rush for over 4,000 yards in a career. He tops career marks in the Missouri record book for rushing yards and total yards.

Smith was selected in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the New York Jets, with plans to use him as a quarterback, wide receiver and running back. While never becoming a star in the pros, he established a successful career as an offensive and special teams weapon –- playing nine seasons in the NFL as a wildcat quarterback, wide receiver and returner. Over the course of his career, he compiled 972 rushing yards, 987 receiving yards, 2,879 return yards and 14 total TDs.

The first 30 players on the Independence Bowl’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Team, as previously announced:

No. 21 – Derrick Mason (WR, Michigan State, 1995); No. 22 – Garrison Hearst (RB,  Georgia, 1991); No. 23 – Jacob Rodriguez (LB, Texas Tech, 2023); No. 24 – Tim Krumrie (NG, Wisconsin, 1982); No. 25 – Muhsin Muhammad (WR, Michigan State, 1995); No. 26 – Ja’Mar Toombs (RB, Texas A&M, 2000); No. 27 – Otis Wilson (LB, Louisville, 1977); No. 28 – A.J. Green (WR, Georgia, 2009); No. 29 – Rocky Calmus (LB – Oklahoma, 1999); No. 30 – Flozell Adams (OT – Michigan State, 1995);

No. 31 – Willie Blade (DT, Mississippi State, 2000); No. 32 – Scott Thomas (S, Air Force, 1983 & 1984); No. 33 – Chad Hennings (DT, Air Force, 1984); No. 34 — Dameyune Craig (QB, Auburn, 1996); No. 35 – Geno Atkins (DT,  Georgia, 2009); No. 36 – Rondell Mealey (RB, LSU, 1997); No. 37 – Rolando McClain (LB, Alabama, 2007); No. 38 – Weldon Brown (CB, Louisiana Tech, 2008); No. 39 – Andre Smith (OT, Alabama, 2006 & 2007; No. 40 – Tiki Barber (RB, Virginia, 1994);

No. 41 – Puka Nacua (WR, BYU, 2021); No. 42 – Gary Kubiak (QB; Texas A&M, 1981); No. 43 — Seneca Wallace (QB, Iowa State, 2001); No. 44 – Todd McClure (C, LSU, 1995 & 1997); No. 45 – Gary Anderson (K, Syracuse, 1979); No. 46 – Booger McFarland (LB, LSU, 1995 & 1997); No. 47 – Tremaine Edmunds (LB – Virginia Tech, 2015); No. 48 – Bill Musgrave (QB – Oregon, 1989); No. 49 – Larry Anderson (DB – Louisiana Tech, 1977); No. 50 – Lorenza Baker (LB – Louisiana Tech, 1990).

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Guidry, other Louisiana pitchers of yore on my mind

Baseball’s Hall of Fame weekend in Cooperstown got me to thinking about pitchers.

Not that any of this year’s three deserving inductees – Carlos Beltran, Andruw Jones and Jeff Kent – were pitchers. It was interesting that two of the three – Beltran and Kent – are former Houston Astros. Beltran played in Houston in 2004 and 2017, earning a World Series ring in ’17, and Kent wore the Astros’ uniform in 2003 and ’04. In 2004, Kent memorably hit a game-winning 3-run homer in Game 5 of the NLCS Series at Minute Maid Park against the Cardinals. It broke a scoreless tie, and one of the two base runners was Beltran, who had singled and stolen a base.

Although the Astros lost the final two games in St. Louis, that homer made Kent look like Superman since it was one of the more memorable highlights in Houston baseball history.

On to the pitching. One of the marquee pitchers this season is Jacob Misiorowski of the Milwaukee Brewers, who, as of the weekend, was sporting a 1.58 earned run average. Should he finish the season with that ERA, he’ll be among the game’s elite to finish a season with an earned run average that low. The modern-day/live ball (post 1920) record belongs to Bob Gibson of the St. Louis Cardinals at 1.12 in 304.2 innings. The only pitchers other than Gibson to post an ERA of 1.58 or lower were Dwight Gooden in 1985 at 1.53 over 276.2 innings for the New York Mets, and Greg Maddux in ’94 at 1.56 over 202 innings with the Atlanta Braves.

Misiorowski has logged 120 innings with 20 games pitched. I wonder if he’ll even reach 200 innings. On July 20, he was pulled after four innings and 65 pitches against the New York Mets – a workload management decision because of apparent minor fatigue following a 13-day layoff. This was a shame since it prevented him from chalking up a win with the minimum 5 innings work. In the time he had pitched, he scattered four hits, gave up an unearned run and struck out six. He had 65 pitches (45 being strikes). We are in an era when exceeding a predetermined pitch count is as vile as exceeding the alcohol limit while driving. A complete game is so rare as to be celebrated like a 300 game in bowling. Misiorowski has one complete game (a shutout) this season.

Thinking about the enviable ERA marks of yore, how about the 1.74 ERA registered by “Louisiana Lightning,” Ron Guidry in his magical season with the Yankees in 1978, when he was one of baseball’s bigger stories that summer, posting a 25-3 record with 248 strikeouts, 16 complete games and 9 shutouts in 273.2 innings. He was the unanimous choice as the American League Cy Young Award winner.

Comparing him with one of the all-time great pitchers, Sandy Koufax, might seem preposterous, but there are some similarities between the left-handers. They are closely matched in career records (Guidry’s 170-91 to Koufax’s 165-87), innings pitched (2,392.0 to 2,324.1) and games started (323 to 314). Guidry played 14 seasons (12 as a starter) and Koufax played 12 seasons, but only six as a full-time starter. But Koufax pitched four no-hitters (to Guidry’s none) and had 618 more career strikeouts in a shorter span of time. Guidry never came close to being elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. He appeared on the writers’ ballot for nine years (1994–2002), never exceeding 8.8 percent before dropping off after receiving 4.9 percent of the vote in 2002.

Nobody doubts the Hall-of-Fame worth of his fantastic year, 1978, and it’s worth noting that in that same year two other Louisiana pitchers were very good, too. Mansfield’s Vida Blue of the San Francisco Giants, who won the AL Cy Young Award and Most Valuable Player Award in 1971 for the Oakland A’s, won 18 games that season with a 2.79 ERA with 9 complete games and 4 shutouts. J.R. Richard of Vienna (5 miles north of Ruston) had over 300 strikeouts in ’78 for the first of two consecutive seasons, pitching for the Astros. He also had 16 complete games that year and went the distance in 19 games in ’79. Neither of them is in Baseball’s Hall of Fame.

The only two Louisiana-born pitchers enshrined at Cooperstown are Ted Lyons of Lake Charles, who won 260 games over 21 seasons with the Chicago White Sox, and Bienville Parish’s Lee Smith, who compiled 478 career saves.  

Guidry’s fabled season in 1978 was only his second as a starter. His Yankees manager, Bob Lemon, said at the time, “He’s still just a green pea.” He was skinny and bowlegged and weighed about 160. Acclaimed baseball writer Roger Angell attributed Guidry’s “superior” fastball to his “upper-body movement, led by his right shoulder, which at the last instant drives forward and downward toward the batter with a sudden, pistonlike swiftness, releasing the power in his left arm.”

Even though he was a “green pea” in 1978, Guidry matured so well that he was the Yankees’ captain for three years running a decade later, from 1986-88. He retired in 1989 and went to the Yankees’ annual Oldtimers Game that year. He fondly recalled that occasion in 1992, before teeing up for the golf tournament the day he was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame.

“Usually at those games, the biggest cheer is for Mickey Mantle, and the next biggest is for Joe DiMaggio,” he said. “That year, they didn’t introduce me until last and when they did, the ovation must’ve gone for three minutes or more.”

He relayed that DiMaggio came up to him later and said, “You ought to be proud of yourself. I’ve been to many of these games and received numerous ovations, but none of them have been quite like that one.”

Contact Bob at btompkins1225@gmail.com

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NSU football team reunites, begins preseason practices tonight 

JOURNAL SPORTS

The whistle around Blaine McCorkle’s neck says it all – football season has arrived at Northwestern State.

McCorkle and his NSU football coaching staff welcomed more than 100 Demons to campus Monday for a day of administrative tasks that will lead into the opening day of fall camp today.

“It’s here,” McCorkle said on the eve of his third fall camp at the helm of the Demon program. “It’s what we work for all year – to get to this section of the year. Today’s a lot of meetings, a lot of protocol, a lot of housekeeping if you will. (Tuesday) night, we’ll finally be able to get on the field. I like their attitude. Everybody’s in a good mood today. Nobody’s been hit, but that will change over the next few days. We’re excited to get going.”

After a summer in which they spent some time separately in Natchitoches, the Demons will hit the field together for the first time since the spring at 7 p.m. Tuesday inside Turpin Stadium.

Ahead of that, Northwestern’s roster spent Monday going through their off-the-field paces, including team meetings, weigh-ins and additional physical tests.

The lengthy day of paperwork, rules and regulations did not damper the enthusiasm the team shared for the opening of camp, which precedes the Aug. 27 season opener against Louisiana Christian in Turpin Stadium.

“Going through expectations, the procedures, meetings, going into practice, the new facilities and talking about getting us in there definitely makes it real,” linebacker Ben Bienvenu said. “It doesn’t feel like the season’s right around the corner, but it really is. We’ve got less than 30 days (until the season opener).”

While Monday may have tested the team’s patience with its litany of meetings and forms, it did not dampen the enthusiasm for what lies ahead for the 2026 Demons.

“I’ve been waiting on this since the summer started and we reported on (May) 31st,” fifth-year running back Zay Davis said. “It’s amazing to be around the guys and the team. I can’t wait to get on the field with the guys.”

Entering his third year with the Demons after transferring from Northwest Mississippi Community College, Davis is ready to let out  his personality in his final camp.

“The friendly banter is what I most look forward to,” he said. “I like to talk a little trash here and there, but I’m very excited. Five out of five. I’ve made it to the fifth one, my last one. It’s getting very real.”

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All Americans learned in school that we fought two wars against the British, namely the American Revolution and the War of 1812, but there was a third war that began in 1859 which has been largely forgotten.  Following the War of 1812, the United Kingdom and the United States agreed in the Treaty of Oregon that the boundary between the countries was along the 49^th parallel from the Rocky Mountains to the middle of the channel which separates the continent from Vancouver’s Island then south through the channel to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and west to the Pacific Ocean (see map).  This agreement was made by using crude maps by people who had little knowledge of the area.  Both parties were unaware that there were two distinct channels or straits, the Haro Strait and the Rosario Strait, which were divided by San Juan Island. Because of the way the treaty was written, both countries claimed right to the island and people from both countries began settling on the island. For years, tension rose as each side argued that settlers from the other side were nothing more than squatters or trespassers.  

The first shot of the war happened on June 15, 1859, when Lyman Cutlar, an American, shot and killed a British subject whom Lyman had found destroying crops in his field.  British authorities threatened to arrest Lyman and to evict all Americans from the island.  In response, American Brigadier General William Harney ordered a company of 64 infantry soldiers to the island.  When the soldiers arrived, the British Governor at Vancouver ordered Royal Navy Captain Geoffrey Phipps Hornby to take his 31-gun steam frigate HMS Tribune to remove the American soldiers.  More British warships joined the Tribune shortly thereafter, and more American soldiers were sent to the island.  For months, the British and Americans stockpiled weapons and built up their forces for the upcoming battle.  Each side drilled and fired their cannons, but they were careful not to aim at the opposing soldiers just yet.  As both sides were making their final preparations for battle, General Winfield Scott, U.S. Army commander and War of 1812 veteran, arrived and began negotiations.  General Scott proposed and both sides agreed on a joint military occupation until a final border could be agreed upon.  For twelve long, tense years, San Juan Island remained under joint military occupation.  In 1871, when Great Britain and the United States were still unable to agree on ownership of San Juan Island, they turned to Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germany who set up a three-man arbitration commission to settle the dispute.  Both sides agreed that the commission’s decision would be final.  Finally in October 1872, after nearly a year of discussions by the commission, Kaiser Wilhelm I ruled in favor of the United States.  San Juan Island belonged to the United States.  The Royal Marines withdrew the following month, and the war ended 14 years after the first shot was fired.  The war over San Juan Island was named after that British subject who was the only fatality of this war between the United Kingdom and the United States.  It is known as the Pig War.  That’s right.  This conflict between the United Kingdom and United States was set off by a squabble over a pig. 

Source: “The Pig War,” National Park Service: San Juan Island, accessed July 19, 2026, https://www.nps.gov/sajh/learn/historyculture/the-pig-war.htm.       

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It is with profound sorrow and eternal love that we mourn the passing of our cherished Momma, friend and fierce ally, Marylin Elizabeth Bryant Shelton on July 22, 2026. Marylin was 80, born June 6, 1946, in Rayville, Louisiana. She was a lifelong resident of Louisiana where over the years she made an immeasurable amount of cherished memories with her family, friends and loved ones.

Marylin is survived by her daughter, Shannon K. Johnson (husband Jesse, children Austin Bowlin (wife Hannah, children Peyton and Olivia), Conner Bowlin (son J.C.), Sydnie G. Bowlin (partner Sam Rikke), Jacob L. Johnson, Landon L. Johnson (wife Kinsey) and Hunter R. Johnson ), her sister-in-law Cynthia Bryant, her niece Jeri (husband Jay, children Bryant Bowen and Kathryn Bowen (partner Jesse), her nephew Derek E. Bryant (wife Holly, children Celia and Bruce), best friend Butch Snell (wife Judy), relatives and many other friends.

Marylin was preceded in death by her beloved parents, John T. Bryant and Mildred E. Durham and her baby brother Warren E. Bryant.

Marylin, a Woodlawn High School graduate, had many titles throughout her lifetime including devoted daughter, Momma, wife, Auntie, Nana, secretary, bookkeeper, telephone operator, substitute teacher, multi game casino dealer and supervisor in the riverboat gaming industry. Marylin was an avid sports fan who enjoyed supporting her family in their chosen sport or interest, watching her Houston Astros play and racing sports of all kinds.

There will be a gathering for friends and family held at Aulds Funeral Home 7849 East Kings Hwy, Shreveport, LA 71115 on Tuesday, July 28 from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Woody’s Home for Veterans in Shreveport or Disabled American Veterans in Marylin’s memory. 

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Visitation for Herschel Lloyd Wimberley, 81, will be held Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City, Louisiana. A graveside service will take place on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:30 AM at New Chapel Hill Cemetery in West Monroe, Louisiana. Officiating the service will be Brother Scott O’Rear.

Herschel Wimberley, a gentle and sweet soul, was the epitome of a gentleman. Born on January 28, 1945, in San Francisco, California, he peacefully entered heavenly rest on Friday, July 24, 2026, in Bossier City, Louisiana. Herschel left behind a legacy of service, dedication, and a lifelong passion for classic automobiles.

Herschel answered the call of duty and honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970. His military service took him across the globe, with assignments that stationed him in Wyoming and Iran. Following his military service, he built a stable and successful career at BellSouth, where his strong work ethic and dependability led to a retirement celebrating over 30 years of dedicated service.

Beyond his professional life, Herschel was a true craftsman at heart with a deep love for classic cars. He was happiest when he was tinkering in the garage or attending local car shows. The absolute highlight of his days was the time spent working on his beloved 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass, a project that brought him immense joy and pride.

Herschel was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Heather Wimberley; his cherished wife of 30 years, Ginger Wimberley; his parents, Leonard and Ina Florene Wimberley; and his father-in-law, Alvin Brandon.

He is survived by his daughter, Holly Boyer and her husband, Chad; his sister, Virginia Walker and her husband, Shelby; his nieces, Penelope Walker Sutton and her husband, Paul and their children, Shelby, Jamie, and Caroline; Nikki Dove and her husband, Tim; his great-niece, Tabitha Maschino, and her husband, Josh; his great-nephew, Tad Dove, and his wife, Lauren, and their son, Wyatt; and his mother-in-law, Patsy Brandon. He also leaves behind a host of cousins and cherished friends.

Herschel’s family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude and special thanks to the staff at The Blake Assisted Living. Their exceptional love, kindness, and attentive care over the past five years provided Herschel with comfort and a true sense of home. His gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Herschel’s name to http://www.alzbridge.org.

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Phonetic: /fe·​brile/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

marked or caused by fever : feverish

a febrile reaction caused by an allergy

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Susan Renee Branch
November 18, 1948 – July 25, 2026
Service: Thursday, July 30, 2026, 10am at Calvary Baptist Church, Shreveport.

Virginia “Jenny” Lea Rich
August 28, 1984 — July 24, 2026
Service: Thursday, July 30, 2026, 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Charles “Oscar” Kirkendall
August 3, 1945 — July 23, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 1, 2026, 2pm at Faith Community Church, Shreveport.

Michael Stanley
May 18, 1960 — July 23, 2026
Service: Wednesday, July 29, 2026, 2pm at Aulds Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Marylin Elizabeth Bryant Shelton
June 6, 1946 — July 22, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 2pm at Aulds Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Mary Tuminello
June 23, 1938 – July 22, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 11am at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Michael Wayne Berry
November 12, 1943 — July 21, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Southside, Shreveport.

Charles Edward Hicks
June 8, 1939 — July 21, 2026
Service: Wednesday, July 29, 2026, 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Southside, Shreveport.

Ralph Gary Whitener
August 8, 1951 — July 20, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 8, 2026, 10:30am at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Shreveport.

Christopher “Chris” Daniel Pierce
January 19, 1985 — July 18, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 8, 2026, 10am at Open Range Fellowship, Greenwood.

Dianne Webb Mullin
September 18, 1934 – July 17, 2026
Service: Friday, July 31, 2026, 10:30am at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Shreveport.

Chuckie Brooks
November 6, 1968 — July 16, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 1, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Jairus Lee Keyes Sr.
September 6, 1953 – July 15, 2026
Service: Friday, July 31, 2026, 11am at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Marciel Spearman
September 14, 1953 – July 15, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 1, 2026, 1pm at Carver Memorial Cemetery, Shreveport.

Daisy Lee Swayzer-Anderson
June 11, 1935 — July 14, 2026
Service: Wednesday, July 29, 2026, 11am at Paradise Baptist Church, Shreveport.

Raymond Lee Wilson
September 3, 1938 — July 13, 2026
Service: Friday, July 31, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Rebecca Sue Wilson
December 30, 1941 — July 13, 2026
Service: Friday, July 31, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Antoinette Marie Ferlito Leone
April 20, 1948 — July 9, 2026
Service: Sunday, August 1, 2026, 4pm at Western Hills Baptist Church, Shreveport.

Thomas Nimmo
April 19, 1943 – July 9, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 8, 2026, 2pm at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Diana Kay Yarbrough
September 26, 1949 — June 16, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 8, 2026, 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Janice LaRue Horton
June 15, 1942 – June 12, 2026
Service: Friday, August 28, 2026, 5pm at Osborn Funeral Home, Shreveport.

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Shreveport Police arrested Ashley Coker after an off-duty officer working at the Walmart located at 1645 East Bert Kouns Industrial Loop reportedly observed her stealing merchandise.

Coker was taken into custody, and investigators learned that she had multiple previous theft-related arrests involving the Shreveport Police Department, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Bossier City Police Department and Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.

According to police, this marks Coker’s seventh theft-related arrest across multiple jurisdictions.

Due to her prior history, Coker was charged with one count of felony theft and transported to the Shreveport City Jail.

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The Shreveport Police Department announced Saturday, July 25, 2026, that two suspects wanted in connection with a deadly shooting and attempted armed robbery at the Holiday Inn Downtown have been booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility.

According to police, JaQuarius Davis and Kamrin Brown were booked into the facility after being located during the ongoing investigation.

The investigation remains active, and detectives anticipate making one additional arrest.

The case began on July 20, 2026, at approximately 1:20 a.m., when officers responded to a reported shooting at the Holiday Inn Downtown, located at 102 Lake Street.

Upon arrival, officers found 32-year-old Derrick Wayne Coleman Jr. suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Coleman was pronounced deceased.

Following an extensive investigation, detectives reviewed surveillance footage, interviewed witnesses and gathered additional evidence. With assistance from law enforcement agencies in Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas, investigators identified Brown and Davis as two individuals allegedly involved in the crimes.

Arrest warrants were issued for both suspects on the following charges:

• One count of second-degree murder
• One count of attempted armed robbery

A third suspect remains unidentified, and the investigation is ongoing.

The Shreveport Police Department thanked those who assisted with the investigation, including the U.S. Marshals Task Force, SPD Violent Crimes Detectives, SPD Domestic Violence Detectives, SPD Crime Scene Investigators, the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office and Concordia Parish detectives.

Police said the cooperation and dedication of each agency and investigative unit were instrumental in locating the suspects and advancing the case.

Brown and Davis should be considered dangerous, and police advised the public not to approach them.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the suspects or the identity of the third suspect is urged to contact the Shreveport Police Department or Shreveport-Caddo Crime Stoppers. Tips can be submitted anonymously.

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Caddo Parish Public Schools joined education leaders from across Louisiana for the 20th annual Cecil J. Picard Excellence in Education Gala, an event celebrating the best in public education.

Two Caddo educators were recognized among the state’s most elite professionals during the event.

Monica Speyrer of C.E. Byrd High School was recognized as a finalist for Louisiana Teacher of the Year, while Shannon Wall of Northwood High School was honored as a semifinalist for Louisiana Principal of the Year.

Caddo Parish Public Schools congratulated Wall and Speyrer on their recognition and said the district is proud of their accomplishments.

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In Search of Good Food: it’s a Gift

By DAVID ERSOFF, Journal Contributor

Now that the World Cup is over, I personally have more free time to check out some of the good restaurants in town, especially at lunch. This past week I went back to Biscotti’s @ Lewis Gifts, 5807 Youree Drive, Shreveport, after not being there for over a year.

Biscotti’s is inside Lewis Gifts, a quaint gift shop that is not just for women. There are things for men, babies, with bath products and items for the home in general. They also have a wedding registry option for anyone about to be married.

Biscotti’s has a variety of paninis that I am a big fan of, but don’t find in many places. Paninis offer just a textual element that I think makes a hot sandwich so much more enjoyable to eat.

I have tried three over my visits. The first time I went, I had the Roast Beef and Cheese melt. It was a while ago; however I can remember raving about it. I recommended Biscotti’s to many of my friends based on how good that meal was. The next time I visited, sometime last year, I tried the Ham and Cheese melt, and it was equally as good as the Roast Beef, plus there was an added influx of flavor with the Cuban spread, a great upgrade from mayonnaise or mustard. Sadly, I was not writing this series back then and so I can’t speak to anything my companions ate.

This trip, I went with the Turkey & Brie Panini. I’m not normally a fan of brie cheese, but going to all these restaurants has afforded me the opportunity to try new things. The Cuban sauce is also used on this sandwich, and it was as good as I remember it being last year. The turkey was fresh and the brie worked much better than I could have hoped. I would have it again.

My next visit I will go for the Cuban Panini. I basically flipped a coin last week between it and the Turkey. It came up tails, so turkey was the choice.

I had a coworker with me and we had discussed that Biscotti’s had a club sandwich that got praise from many people. Back when Schumpert Hospital was open they had a club sandwich that was really good and massive — if you know, you know. My coworker went for the Club. He said it reminded him of that Schumpert Club that we all loved so much. This is high praise. I did not get a taste, but it looked so good. It is big enough for two without fear of still being hungry afterward.

Biscotti’s does catering, with sandwich trays, casseroles, soups and salads. They also have dessert trays, cakes and pies. This is something I didn’t realize and am keeping in mind for when that opportunity arises.

Contact David at dersoff@bellsouth.net

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Two states, two state amateur crowns for transfer-toughened Moss

By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

Sydney Moss didn’t expect to win the 2022 Louisiana Women’s Amateur Golf Championship just a few weeks after graduating from Byrd High School.

But she survived a rough start, and overcame being the 15^th seed in a 16-woman field qualifying for match play to charge to that title.

Four years and three colleges later, she did expect to contend for another state am crown – in Mississippi. Thursday, Moss was not only in the mix at the end of the 54-hole championship – she was in a playoff, and she won it.

The Shreveporter, who recently graduated from Mississippi Christian (formerly Mississippi College), used lessons learned along her unconventional college golf path and employed her trademark short game to prevail on the fourth extra hole and capture the Mississippi Women’s Amateur.

“It’s a little surreal, pretty cool. I don’t believe many people have two state amateur titles in two states,” she said Saturday after finishing a round at East Ridge Country Club. “I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do it without the transfer portal and (Mississippi Christian) Coach (Brent) Belton.”

It was no surprise that chipping and putting was key to last week’s win.

“My coaches at school and everybody who knows me on the golf course, they call it ‘the Sydney short game.’ I can hack it around sometimes, and get it up and down when I need to,” she said.

That happened on her final hole of regulation, and again to win. Moss chipped to within four feet and sank the decisive par putt.

Moss opened with a one-under 71 to take the lead, held it with an even par round Wednesday at Patrick Farms Golf Club in suburban Jackson, and overcame a bogey on her first hole in the final round Thursday to finish even for the tournament. So did British golfer Maddy Beeching, who plays at Jackson State and shot 71 in the final round.

“It was pretty intense. We weren’t talking, I can tell you that,” said Moss. “I could tell she wanted to beat my brains in, and I wanted to do the same. Any mistake in a playoff is critical. We were neck and neck, and eventually the chip went close and the putt dropped.”

The daughter of former LSU All-American and PGA Tour player Perry Moss isn’t exactly a chip off the old block but she is building a nifty golf resume.

“Everybody tells me, ‘your dad was the best ball striker.’ I take pride in being a good short gamer,” she said. “I want to chip and putt it better than him because I think that’s ultimately where you score.”

While playing for 2001 U.S. Women’s Amateur champion Meredith Duncan at Byrd, she won the 2020 Louisiana Girls Junior Amateur, the 2021 LHSAA Division I championship, and as a senior was Division I state runner-up. Weeks later, she claimed the state am championship and headed off to the University of Memphis on a golf scholarship.

It wasn’t a good fit. Stephen F. Austin was, but after two years there, SFA dropped the sport and Moss was suddenly back in the transfer portal.

“I don’t take it personally when people don’t know where I’m at,” said Moss, chuckling, then explaining although it was challenging, changing school colors three times in four years has been beneficial.

“It would be a lot on anybody. I’ve tried to handle it to the best of my abilities, and I think I’ve handled it with grace.

“Each school taught me something different. I don’t think I would have learned all I have if I had stayed at the same place,” she said. “If you think about it, in golf if you’re comfortable, you’re probably doing something wrong. Nothing about golf is comfortable. Moving around and getting me out of my comfort zone actually helped my golf game, and taught me a lot.

“Four years apart from the Louisiana state am win, there were a lot of steep learning curves I went through, some growing pains. I didn’t really show up to the Louisiana women’s amateur expecting anything. I was a pretty young golfer. This time around I feel like I’ve learned a lot, and now I have a different mindset: if I play my game, I can give myself a good chance to do well in the tournament.”

One aspect has been constant.

“The Sydney that played in 2022 and this version both have the same competitiveness, grit, tenacity. I was out there fighting. That hasn’t changed one bit. I don’t have to have my best game, but I will fight to the death.”

She was a winner at this year’s Louisiana state am – taking the consolation bracket, not the top prize. But about that time, she found out since she was living in Ridgeland while going to MC, she was eligible for the Magnolia State’s amateur, and signed up.

She brought home four trophies, including two medalist awards and the tournament prizes:  “one you get to keep, the one you have to bring back,” said Moss.

“It showed me I’ve grown in my golf game. I’ve gained maturity in certain areas I didn’t have before. I don’t think it’s about the external game, but the internal affirmation I got this week,” she said. “That counts for something.”

Moss will play her final year for the Choctaws and will aim at a master’s degree in applied exercise physiology after receiving a bachelor’s in kinesiology in May.

Her MC golf debut was a success. Moss won in her hometown, taking an individual title at Centenary’s Hal Sutton Invitational, and finished with a trio of top three finishes. She led MC to a fifth-place finish at the Gulf South Conference Championships as she posted a top 10 to earn All-GSC recognition.

Future plans? Wait and see, she said. For now, she’s content to savor her latest accomplishment and possible unique status in regional golf history.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

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Calvary’s Jamison Bears down, picks Baylor as his college home

JOURNAL SPORTS

The recruiting news this time of year usually is focused on football commitments, but Saturday at Calvary Baptist Academy, Tyrone “T.J.” Jamison made waves in college basketball.

The two-time All-State point guard for the Cavaliers announced his commitment to Baylor, ending a process that narrowed to six Power 4 schools: LSU, Iowa, Oklahoma, Southern Cal, Miami and BU.

Jamison is one of the nation’s top senior prospects for the Class of 2027. The 6-2 playmaker is ranked 38^th overall nationally by 247Sports.com and 41^st by ESPN SCNext100.

He’s rated as the state’s No. 2 recruit by 247Sports, which also has him listed as the 12^th-best senior point guard nationally.

Jamison wanted to settle on a college choice prior to his senior year. He chose Baylor over Oklahoma and said decisive factors included the religious orientation of the Waco, Texas university, his relationship with the coaching staff, Baylor’s academic profile and its winning tradition under veteran coach Scott Drew. The Bears have recruited well in Louisiana under Drew.

Jamison scored 20.5 points per game and averaged 5.9 assists last season, helping the Cavaliers of coach Vic Morris to a No. 1 seed and the Select Division III state finals for a second straight year. He was the state Class 2A Outstanding Player as a sophomore from the LSWA and the Louisiana Association of Basketball Coaches, when he averaged 15.3 points, 3.9 rebounds and 6.7 assists.

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Joy Lynn Rosser, nicknamed “Elf”, passed away on July 25, 2026, in Shreveport, Louisiana, at the age of 76. Born on May 11, 1950, in Opelousas, Louisiana, Joy lived an eclectic life centered on creativity, curiosity, and love of family, friends, animals , and the living world around her.

Joy’s educational journey began with the study of oceanography at Northeast Louisiana University. Later, she studied journalism and public relations at LSU Shreveport, where she proudly earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1991.

Joy expressed herself through an array of media. She painted with oils and watercolors, sketched with chalk and pencil, sculpted intricate forms, and created murals and mobiles using unconventional and reclaimed materials. Her artistic endeavors graced her community; her murals have appeared on in downtown Shreveport and at the Renzi Center. Joy also collaborated with colleagues to open an art gallery in the historic Herold Mansion in Shreveport. Her involvement with ArtSpace, the Trapped Truth Society, Renzi Education and Arts Center and the Bossier Arts Council further demonstrated her commitment to fostering creativity and culture.

Joy’s artistry extended beyond visual mediums—she was also an avid writer and performer of both poetry and prose. In informal settings, her friends and family were entertained by her imaginative and unique storytelling.

A spiritual seeker throughout her life, Joy explored many religious traditions but found a long-standing home at All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church in Shreveport. She expressed her spirituality not only through her art, but through care and attention – she cherished long conversations with loved ones, opened her home to pets and cultivated a garden based on found flowers and edible plants.

She is survived by her daughter Melody Rosser; her sisters Jean Foster and Larri Rosser; as well as a wealth of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Hearn Rosser and Velma Hale Rosser.

In keeping with Joy’s wishes for a celebratory farewell rather than traditional mourning rituals, there will be no funeral or flowers. Instead, she encouraged those who loved her to eat cake and share stories about her remarkable life. To honor Joy’s legacy of community care and compassion for others, donations may be made to Renzi Education and Art Center, The Bridge Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center, or Nova’s Heart Animal Rescue Services.

Joy Lynn Rosser lived a life filled with color, creativity, and connection. May those who knew her find comfort in their memories of this remarkable woman whose spirit will continue to inspire all who were touched by it.

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James Raymond Graves, 54, of Caddo, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on July 25, 2026.

James was born on July 3, 1972, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Clyde Lee Creel Jr. and Dale Elaine (Lyons) Graves.

James attended school in Minden, Louisiana. He was a talented artist who enjoyed drawing and creating projects both for himself and for others. He had a creative spirit and loved expressing himself through his artwork. He was also an avid gamer who especially enjoyed playing Fortnite, Minecraft, and Dragon games, along with many other action games. James was a devoted Star Wars fan and loved collecting and building car models.

James is survived by his son, James Graves of Durant, OK; sisters, Robin Wallace and husband Chad of Caddo, OK, Katrina Peden and husband Eddie of Mead, OK; nephews, Tyler Moore, and Isaiah Moore of Caddo, OK.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde Lee Creel Jr. and Dale Elaine (Lyons) Graves; bonus father, James Graves; grandfather, Lloyd Lyons; grandmother, Dorthy Lyons; aunt, Cardinal Dianne.

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CREMATION UNDER THE DIRECTION OF

BROWN’S FUNERAL SERVICE – ATOKA, OK

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Phonetic: /eye-TIN-uh-runt/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

Itinerant describes someone who travels from place to place or only stays in a place for a short amount of time. It is used especially for people who travel in a circuit for their profession.

Being an itinerant musician gave her the opportunity to see the wonders of the world with her own eyes.

traveling from place to place

especially : covering a circuit

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Virginia “Jenny” Lea Rich
August 28, 1984 — July 24, 2026
Service: Thursday, July 30, 2026, 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Charles “Oscar” Kirkendall
August 3, 1945 — July 23, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 1, 2026, 2pm at Faith Community Church, Shreveport.

Mary Tuminello
June 23, 1938 – July 22, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 11am at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Michael Wayne Berry
November 12, 1943 — July 21, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Southside, Shreveport.

Charles Edward Hicks
June 8, 1939 — July 21, 2026
Service: Wednesday, July 29, 2026, 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Southside, Shreveport.

Ralph Gary Whitener
August 8, 1951 — July 20, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 8, 2026, 10:30am at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Shreveport.

Rose Marie Eckenrode Clarke
March 27, 1939 — July 18, 2026
Service: Monday, July 27, 2026, 10am at St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church, Shreveport.

Dianne Webb Mullin
September 18, 1934 – July 17, 2026
Service: Friday, July 31, 2026, 10:30am at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Shreveport.

Willie Boggs, Jr.
July 18, 1963 — July 16, 2026
Service: Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 2pm at Aulds Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Chuckie Brooks
November 6, 1968 — July 16, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 1, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Jairus Lee Keyes Sr.
September 6, 1953 – July 15, 2026
Service: Friday, July 31, 2026, 11am at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Daisy Lee Swayzer-Anderson
June 11, 1935 — July 14, 2026
Service: Wednesday, July 29, 2026, 11am at Paradise Baptist Church, Shreveport.

Raymond Lee Wilson
September 3, 1938 — July 13, 2026
Service: Friday, July 31, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Rebecca Sue Wilson
December 30, 1941 — July 13, 2026
Service: Friday, July 31, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Antoinette Marie Ferlito Leone
April 20, 1948 — July 9, 2026
Service: Sunday, August 1, 2026, 4pm at Western Hills Baptist Church, Shreveport.

Thomas Nimmo
April 19, 1943 – July 9, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 8, 2026, 2pm at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Diana Kay Yarbrough
September 26, 1949 — June 16, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 8, 2026, 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Janice LaRue Horton
June 15, 1942 – June 12, 2026
Service: Friday, August 28, 2026, 5pm at Osborn Funeral Home, Shreveport.

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Shreveport police have arrested a woman accused of pointing a firearm at two people during a road rage incident on Youree Drive.

On June 26, 2026, officers assigned to the Shreveport Police Department’s Area 2 Patrol Division responded to the 8500 block of Youree Drive regarding an assault and battery complaint. Officers learned the incident had occurred earlier that morning in the 8700 block of Youree Drive.

Investigators obtained video footage, interviewed the two victims and canvassed nearby businesses. Additional surveillance footage and witness statements helped detectives determine that Latasha Williams, 40, allegedly pointed a handgun at both victims while the vehicles were traveling along Youree Drive.

On July 17, detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Williams with two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm.

Williams turned herself in at the Caddo Correctional Center on July 21, 2026, and was taken into custody.

The Shreveport Police Department reminds motorists that anger behind the wheel can quickly turn a minor traffic dispute into a serious criminal case. Drivers are encouraged to avoid confrontation, create distance and contact law enforcement if they feel threatened.

SHREVEPORT, La. — Shreveport police have arrested a woman accused of pointing a firearm at two people during a road rage incident on Youree Drive.

On June 26, 2026, officers assigned to the Shreveport Police Department’s Area 2 Patrol Division responded to the 8500 block of Youree Drive regarding an assault and battery complaint. Officers learned the incident had occurred earlier that morning in the 8700 block of Youree Drive.

Investigators obtained video footage, interviewed the two victims and canvassed nearby businesses. Additional surveillance footage and witness statements helped detectives determine that Latasha Williams, 40, allegedly pointed a handgun at both victims while the vehicles were traveling along Youree Drive.

On July 17, detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Williams with two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm.

Williams turned herself in at the Caddo Correctional Center on July 21, 2026, and was taken into custody.

The Shreveport Police Department reminds motorists that anger behind the wheel can quickly turn a minor traffic dispute into a serious criminal case. Drivers are encouraged to avoid confrontation, create distance and contact law enforcement if they feel threatened.

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