JOURNAL SPORTS

Thursday night’s jamboree matchups were not full games, but the offenses were full throttle.

Arch-rivals Captain Shreve and Byrd combined for 70 points in two quarters. Huntington and Northwood topped that with a 78-point eruption in what would be half a regulation game.

Tonight, local jamborees with three games each involving local teams are being played at Independence Stadium and Airline’s M.D. Ray Stadium in the annual Bossier Lions Club event.

Loyola and Calvary make longer bus rides out of town for their competitions.

The regular season kicks off with two games next Thursday and a full slate next Friday, highlighted by the two-day Stars & Stripes Border Classic at Independence Stadium including Calvary, Huntington, Parkway and Evangel.

THURSDAY’S SCORES

Captain Shreve 49, Byrd 21

Huntington 45, Northwood 33

TONIGHT

Benton vs. Haughton (at Airline), 5:45

Bossier vs. Plain Dealing (at Airline), 7:15

Parkway at Airline, 8:45

Magnolia School of Excellence at Booker T. Washington (Independence Stadium), 6:00

North Caddo vs. Southwood (Independence Stadium), 6:30

Green Oaks vs. Woodlawn (Independence Stadium), 7:00

Loyola, Montgomery and Glenbrook (at Glenbrook), 6:00

Calvary at Red River, 7:30

SATURDAY

Evangel vs. Ruston (at Monroe, Malone Stadium), 7:00

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BATON ROUGE — What is Lane Kiffin like?

Should be a complex question, but it isn’t. Not after watching him in his first eight months as LSU’s head football coach.

He’s like the guy in the movies who plants the dynamite and calmly walks towards the camera smiling while everything behind him explodes into a huge fireball.

He’s the dude in handcuffs in the interrogation room who answers questions for hours and says absolutely nothing.

He’s the chillin’ villain dancing to his own beat when there’s no music playing.

Heading into game week of LSU’s Sept. 5 season opener vs. Clemson,  there has been zip revealed about Kiffin’s first squad other than it has 49 transfers from four-year colleges.

Kiffin has spoken more than 25,000 words in his preseason camp press conferences. If you missed all of them, here are a synopsis of his quotes.

“Really happy how we’re kicking field goals.”

“I feel like the receivers have done a really good job.”

“I feel like our defense is playing well.”

“The offensive line is coming together. There’s lots of different pieces from different places.”

Kiffin obviously is most comfortable when he’s lounging the gray area, whether it’s revealing nothing about his team or his process of recruiting transfers from other schools and the NFL.

There was this extremely logical question to Kiffin in this past Monday’s press conference about buying more players at this late date:

Reporter: How do you find the money and position spots available?

Kiffin: “We’re trying to figure that out.”

Does that mean having LSU athletics director Verge Ausberry squeeze already financially tapped out Tigers Sugar Daddies for more millions to pay the late arriving talent?

Or does that mean Kiffin cuts players who have busted their butts in spring and preseason practice climbing the depth chart?

Yes, Kiffin, has stated repeatedly he’s charged with acquiring the best possible talent to win games. Because that’s his job.

And to abide by the rules, which is a problem. Because there are no rules.

If there’s a rule, you get a lawyer and home field judge to produce a temporary restraining order to execute a legal misdirection play.

Kiffin, always the one to climb a flagpole in a hurricane, knew he would be roasted (again) by everyone in the free world who gave a damn because he was committing recent college players cut from NFL teams.

“Because of these rulings, they’re either going to play for you or they’re going to play somewhere else around the country,” Kiffin said.

What supposedly made it worse is CBS Sports reported that Kiffin and the Tigers reached out to multiple players on NFL rosters or their representation to encourage them to file a lawsuit against the NCAA and return to school. CBS Sports also reported that LSU had conversations with others who remain in NFL camps ahead of the league’s cut day on Aug. 30.

This all started when the NCAA changed its eligibility rules in June to allow athletes to play for five seasons within a five-year timespan which begins either when they enroll in college or in the academic year following their 19th birthday, whichever comes first. The previous eligibility rule allowed players to compete for four seasons during a five-year window without any specific age restriction. When the NCAA voted for the change, the Division I Board of Directors opted not to include outgoing seniors who played four seasons in their first four years in college even though they would have been eligible for a fifth season under the new rules.

NCAA officials reasoned they did not want a sudden wave of returning fifth-year players swiping roster spots from incoming freshmen, many of whom had already signed on to play for their teams by the time the rule was changed.

The argument of the players filing lawsuits is that they didn’t have the choice to return for another college season. They had exhausted their eligibility at the end of last season and had to enter the NFL.

Thus, there’s a tsunami of lawsuits in state and federal courts. Judges have granted temporary restraining orders allowing cut NFL and NBA players to compete in the upcoming college season while their case is pending.

“This is an extremely unique situation,” Kiffin said. “I can’t predict the future, but that I don’t think you’d have this again.”

Kiffin doesn’t like to be told “no.” When he was initially rebuffed by quarterback Sam Leavitt and offensive tackle Jordan Seaton while transfer portal shopping in January, Kiffin hopped on a plane to track them down to close deals for each player to sign with the Tigers.

Those key elements of the 2026 team and the rest of the squad should be Kiffin’s total focus.

He doesn’t need to chase any more talent at this point, especially in light of SEC commissioner Greg Sankey announcing severe sanctions for any league school signing a pro player.

Among other things, Kiffin would be suspended for half a season, LSU would pay a fine equal to 50 percent of its football budget and the league would rescind LSU’s voting rights in league legislation.

None of that is worth another tight end. Or a couple of defensive ends.

Shut it down, Lane. Sankey called your bluff. Fold your hand.

At least think about the LSU fanbase. They want to get excited about the start of the season. They are fatigued by all the lawsuits.

Saturday Night in Tiger Stadium can’t happen soon enough.

Contact Ron at ronhigginsmedia@gmail.com

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By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

ATLANTA – It was a smooth 66 Thursday by Shreveport native Sam Burns, with his 4-under opening round at the Tour Championship carrying him within range of the lead in the 29-player field.

Burns had a bogey-free day with two birdies on each side. Having encountered unusual trouble on par-5 holes in the first two legs on the FedEx Cup playoffs, the 30-year-old solved that Thursday, posting birdie 4s on the sixth and 18^th holes.

His other birdies came on the par-4 fourth and the par-3 11^th.  He stroked home a 17-foot, 6-inch putt to get under par, added a six-footer on No. 6 to get to 2-under, then hit a 207-yard tee shot to five feet on the 11^th and drained the birdie effort.

On 18, he reached the 590-yard par-5 in two with a 277-yard second shot and two-putted from 47 feet, dropping in a 40-incher to close his 4-under round.

The leader is Min Woo Lee, who fired a 62, with four birdies on each side of the par 70, 7,440-yard course at East Lake Golf Club, where Shreveporter Hal Sutton won the first Tour Championship played there in 1998.

He sits in a ninth place tie beginning today’s play, paired with Collin Morikawa, who is tied for second after posting a 6-under 64 Thursday. The field slimmed by one from 30 when 2025 U.S. Open champion J.J. Spaun withdrew after five holes due to shoulder discomfort.

Burns, a Choudrant resident who was a two-time All-American at LSU, tied for seventh in last year’s Tour Championship, 12^th in 2025 and ninth in 2023.

TV coverage today starts at 10 a.m. on ESPN until noon, when Golf Channel picks it up. Weekend plans have Golf Channel starting coverage at noon Saturday and Sunday before CBS takes over at 2.

Burns and Morikawa will go off the first tee at 11:42 a.m. CT today.

The Tour Championship carries golf’s biggest purse, $40 million, with $10 million going to the winner and the top eight getting a range from $5 million to $1 million. Tommy Fleetwood is the defending champion. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler won in 2024 and ran away with the opener in this year’s playoffs, the FedEx St. Jude Championship in Memphis two weeks ago. Two-time U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark was last week’s winner at the BMW Championship.

Burns, a three-time state champion golfer at Calvary Baptist, took third at Memphis and tied for 28^th in the BMW Championship in St. Louis.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

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By BRAD WELBORN, Northwestern State Athletic Communications

NATCHITOCHES — Northwestern State had Louisiana Christian on the ropes.

Then the Demons let go.

After building a two-score advantage late in the second quarter, the Demons had the opportunity to take complete control of its season opener Thursday night at Turpin Stadium. Instead, a pair of red-zone fumbles and a slew of penalties throughout the night opened the door for LCU, an NAIA power that stormed back in the second half to hand the Demons a 42-37 loss.

“We didn’t do what we needed to do,” Demons’ third-year coach Blaine McCorkle said. “In spurts early on it looked like the game went the way that a lot of people probably thought it would and for whatever reason we couldn’t hold onto it. We’ve got a lot of things that we’ve got to figure out and some hard conversations to have.”

For a stretch in the second quarter, everything appeared to be going according to plan for the Demons, who raced to a quick 10-0 lead before LCU rallied to a 14-13 advantage.

Northwestern scored touchdowns on its first two possessions of the second period, with Abram Johnston punching in a one-yard option keeper before connecting with Jimmie Duncan on a 59-yard deep ball.

The back-to-back scores pushed NSU’s lead to 27-14.

The Demon defense forced three straight punts, including consecutive three-and-outs, giving the offense two more chances to add to the advantage before halftime.

Neither opportunity produced points.

Both drives ended with fumbles inside the Wildcat 10-yard line, keeping the LCU within striking distance and ultimately becoming a defining sequence of the game.

“We hold on to those two balls we may have 40 points on the board at the half,” McCorkle said. “We didn’t. We had two really good, trusted players that turned the ball over in the red zone and you can’t do that. The one drive they had in the first half we probably had 80 yards of penalties on us. You can’t do that against anybody.”

NSU outgained Louisiana Christian 218-25 in the period, with Johnston completing 11-of-13 passes for 179 yards. The Demons, however, managed just two touchdowns on four possessions.

The Wildcats carried that momentum into the second half.

Touchdowns on their first two possessions of the third quarter, sandwiched an interception return for another score, put LCU on top to stay. The 21-point outburst flipped the game and gave LCU a 35-30 lead entering the fourth quarter.

The Demons had plenty of offensive firepower show up between the 20s, surpassing 500 yards of total offense for the first time since 2022, but three stalled drives that ended in field goals and two fumbles left several points off the board.

Following Louisiana Christian’s first touchdown of the second half, Zay Davis broke loose for a 60-yard run on the ensuing NSU possession, pushing him past the 100-yard mark for the first time in his career.

Davis finished with 124 rushing yards and a touchdown while adding to his total as an all-purpose threat with 28 receiving yards and 47 in on the opening kickoff return for 199 all-purpose yards. His performance made him the first 100-yard rusher for Northwestern since Kennieth Lacy at Houston Christian in October 2022.

Ten different players caught a pass in the game, led by Dylan Rhodes’ six grabs for 55 yards and a  touchdown with 2:47 left, but an onside kick failed and LCU ran out the clock by running for a pair of first downs.

Johnston finished 30-for-42 for 319 yards and two touchdowns with one interception, his second career 300-yard passing performance.

“Other than the turnovers our offense looked like what it should in a game like this,” McCorkle said. “Zay Davis is a good player. I thought Abram played well. Our offensive line is better.

“I told the guys the most frustrating thing about this whole thing is going into our third year, there is no doubt in my mind this is the best football team we’ve had. Without question. No doubt this is the deepest team we’ve had. This is the best culture we’ve had in the locker room, not even close. When you know that those three things are true, that makes these things even more of a mystery.”

The Demons also got a strong showing from Natchitoches native and Colorado State transfer Payne Williams III.

Williams connected on field goals of 32, 47 and 39 yards, becoming the first Northwestern kicker to make three field goals in a game since Eddie Godina did so in 2021.

Northwestern committed 12 penalties for 111 yards, including costly, drive-extending infractions that led to Wildcat scores. It was the most penalties in a game in the McCorkle era.

Against a Louisiana Christian team that capitalized on every opening it was given, the combination of turnovers and penalties proved too much for the Demons to overcome.

“Give Louisiana Christian a lot of credit,” McCorkle said. “They are a really good football team. They’re going to win a lot of games. I think (head coach) Ben (McLaughlin) and his staff do a phenomenal job. They have the chance to win a lot of games.”

Contact Brad at welbornb@nsula.edu

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By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

NATCHITOCHES – Turns out the lunar eclipse beginning about 9:30 wasn’t the strangest thing seen from Turpin Stadium Thursday night.

Louisiana Christian 42, Northwestern State 37. The Wildcats, 8-3 last fall and Sooner Athletic Conference co-champions, with 18 of 22 starters back, became the first NAIA program to defeat an NCAA Division I scholarship team, ever, according to LCU.

Ben McLaughlin’s third Wildcats team earned it. Outgained by 188 yards, but not outfought.

“I told them before the game, never look at the scoreboard. When we got up 14-13, don’t look at the scoreboard, just keep playing. We got down by over a touchdown, just keep playing. They just kept playing one play at a time, and when you do that, you’ve got a chance to win a ballgame,” he said.

LCU was down 10-0 less than six minutes in, but rallied to stake a 14-13 edge 10 minutes later. Northwestern seemed ready to take command, answering with two touchdowns, the second a 59-yard catch by Alexandria native Jimmie Duncan to go up 27-14 midway through the second period.

The Demons twice moved into the red zone before halftime, but both times, the Wildcats recovered fumbles, in the end zone (Ernest MItchell) and at the 13 (Kristian Doyle). NSU could have put up 41 points before the band show, but didn’t.

Then came a 21-point third period outburst into a 35-30 lead by the visitors, highlighted by a 42-yard pick six down the NSU sideline by the soon-to-be NAIA Defensive Player of the Week, Wildcats redshirt freshman cornerback Mitchell. The spread grew to 42-30 on Omarius Davis’ 52-yard reception from Bryce Perkins just into the final quarter, and the Demons couldn’t answer until 2:47 remained.

They never had possession again. LCU evaporated the rest of the clock with a pair of first downs by 118-yard rusher Datlan Cunningham and Jaterius Johnson, and Wildcats danced out to midfield after the final snap.

“That’s the longest three minutes of my life there at the end, trying to grind out those last couple first downs,” said McLaughlin.

“Our guys just believe. They believed from the beginning,” he said. “We’ve got such an old veteran group that I’m trusting that the confidence they have is the right confidence, and my coaching staff is amazing. I’ll put our coaching staff up against any staff in the nation or any division.”

“So you put the right culture, with the right staff, and you got a special team, and this is (what can happen),” said McLaughlin, whose Wildcats have won 11 of their last 15 games dating back to the end of his first season.

It was a performance that earned admiration from the other sideline. As exasperated as Demons’ third-year coach Blaine McCorkle was afterward, he gave LCU its due.

“I don’t have a lot of words for what happened tonight. I give Louisiana Christian a lot of credit. Really, really good football team. They’re gonna win a lot of games,” said McCorkle, who resurrected a former LCU rival, Division III Belhaven, in six seasons, and is trying to do the same gradual rebuild in Natchitoches.

“I’ve said for a long time, Ben and his staff do a phenomenal job. They’ve got good personnel. They’ve got good schemes. They know what they’re doing. They are an older team. Everything we said, they were, as far as that goes. I think they have a chance to win the whole thing at their level. That’s what that’s what a high, high-end NAIA team looks like. So kudos to them, really proud of them.”

“Very proud of these guys,” said McLaughlin. “The players win games. We try to get them ready, but they were the ones that did this. Those guys were awesome.”

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

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BOM Bank was proud to make a donation to the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce in support of the Shreveport Chamber Challenge Sporting Clays fundraiser. This event brings together community leaders and local businesses for a day of friendly competition while supporting the Chamber’s efforts to strengthen and grow the Shreveport business community. We are honored to support organizations that foster economic development, meaningful connections, and opportunities throughout our region. Pictured left to right: Carole Bennett and BOM’s Ireland Slocum.

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Dr. Claville will lie in state for visitation on Saturday, August 29, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., at Morning Star Baptist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana.

The celebration of life will commence on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 10:00 am., in the sanctuary of Morning Star Baptist Church, Shreveport, Louisiana.

You may leave condolences for The Wilford Family to read on the tribute wall.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dr. Wilford Claville, III, please visit our floral store.

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Jerry E. Evans, age 80, was born on February 16, 1946, in Collins, Mississippi, to Palmer Eugene Evans and Myrtle Olene Walker. He passed away on August 22, 2026, in Bossier City, Louisiana. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, whose guidance and love shaped the foundation of his life.

He is survived by devoted family members and cherished friends who will hold his memory with deep affection. A private inurnment will be conducted at a later date at Chickasaw Cemetery.

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Phonetic: /per·​fi·​dy/

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition

the quality or state of being faithless or disloyal : treachery

an act or an instance of disloyalty

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Sherry Carline Holler
November 18, 1942 — August 24, 2026
Service: Friday, August 28, 2026, 10am at Forest Park West Cemetery, Shreveport.

Eula Pennywell
March 23, 1935 – August 24, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 11am at Baptist Temple Baptist Church located at 5024 Greenwood Road, Shreveport

Louis E. Williams, Jr.
March 11, 1955 – August 24, 2026
Service: Friday, August 28, 2026, 11am at Open Range Fellowship, Greenwood.

Vera Fern Adams
May 21, 1939 – August 23, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11am at Mount Bethel #1 Baptist Church, Keithville.

Arthur “Bubba” Lee Thomas
September 12, 1958 — August 23, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11am at Carver Memorial Cemetery, Shreveport.

Jerry W. King
November 14, 1942 — August 23, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 10am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Southside, Shreveport.

Gloria Faye Stiles
May 7, 1939 — August 22, 2026
Service: Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 10:30am at Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Shreveport.

Albert Theus
February 6, 1945 – August 22, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 2pm at Zion Baptist John H. Wilson Chapel, Shreveport.

Janet Lee Williams Wigton
March 17, 1939 — August 22, 2026
Service: Friday, August 28, 2026, 5pm at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Marie Delores Beaudin-McClought
January 2, 1940 — August 21, 2026
Service: Friday, September 4, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Dr. Wilford Claville, III
October 25, 1976 – August 21, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 10am at Morning Star Baptist Church, Shreveport.

Robert Franklin Stuart
December 15, 1959 – August 21, 2026
Service: Friday, August 28, 2026, 10am at Centuries Memorial Park, Shreveport.

Verdell D. Winzer
April 24, 1930 – August 21, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 11am at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Bessie Jimerson
July 22, 1930 – August 20, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 1pm at Greater New Zion Baptist Church, Benton.

Mary Jean Dunn-Grant
January 7, 1951 — August 19, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Ander Edwards
July 5, 1950 – August 19, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11am at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Shreveport.

Earlie Harris
June 13, 1933 – August 19, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11am at Mount Paran Baptist Church, Shreveport.

Hazzatta Pierre Hunter
September 3, 1939 — August 19, 2026
Service: Friday, August 28, 2026, 11am at Forbing Union Cemetery, Shreveport.

David “Randy” Leon Sr.
December 27, 1959 – August 19, 2026
Service: Friday, September 4, 2026, 3pm at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Gloria C. Sumlin
November 1, 1951 – August 19, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 12pm at Zion Baptist John H. Wilson Chapel, Shreveport.

Gloria L. Collins
March 21, 1930 – August 18, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 10am at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Donald Pat Pledger
September 2, 1938 — August 18, 2026
Service: Friday, September 11, 2026, 11am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Shreveport.

Veola Douglas
November 27, 1935 – August 17, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11am at New Bethel #1 Baptist Church, Shreveport.

Patsy Elder
? – August 16, 2026
Service: Monday, August 31, 2026, 10am at Aulds Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Irene McFan Gray
August 12, 1945 – August 16, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11am at Carver Cemetery, Shreveport.

Merdis Sheppard
? – August 14, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 11am at First Baptist Church, Plain Dealing.

Vernon Lorden Doctrove
July 10, 1941 — August 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 3pm at Winnfield Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Foster Washington
April 19, 1953 – August 7, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 1pm at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Helen Christine “Chris” Frazier Belk
October 1, 1953 — August 6, 2026
Service: Saturday, October 3, 2026, 2pm at Broadmoor United Methodist Church, Shreveport.

Ernest Wellsworth
June 2, 1961 — August 4, 2026
Service: Thursday, September 3, 2026, 10:30am at Aulds Funeral Home, Shreveport.

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

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By JIM BUTLER, Rapides Parish Journal

ALEXANDRIA — The courtroom is filling up as more parties join the Diocese of Alexandria bankruptcy proceedings.

Bankruptcy Judge John Hodge on Monday signed five orders, including one requested by the Diocese of Shreveport and one by the newly appointed interim U.S. Trustee.

Kevin Epstein is interim trustee for the Louisiana-Mississippi district, appointed by the U.S. Attorney General to add that to his trustee duties in the Western-Southern Texas district.

He successfully asked the court to delay until September 15 the deadline to object to the Diocese motion for an order appointing legal representation for the interests of any future claims holders in the case and for retention of a Future Claims Representative.

Hodge also ordered hearing that date of other new parties’ motions to compel production of allocation protocol, objecting to the future claims deadline, and allowing the Shreveport entity to object to the disclosure statement of the proposed reorganization plan.

The Diocese filed Chapter 11 last October 31 in the face of pending claims alleging clergy sexual abuse.

Shreveport’s filing notes that ideally a settlement is achieved that includes it and former Alexandria parishes.

In seeking a plan modification, the motion says it should clarify the insurance rights of both those interests.

From late 1976 through mid-1986 and Alexandria and their church parishes were one diocese.

Claims in the Alexandria case date as far back as the 1970s.

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Shreveport Police Department detectives obtained arrest warrants for Wesley Carl Blevins and Phoebe Rosemary Bentley following an investigation into the theft of an employee’s cellphone from Uptown Cheapskate on Line Avenue.

The theft occurred Aug. 6, 2026, when investigators said Blevins and Bentley were standing at the counter while employees sorted through clothing they had brought into the store.

Surveillance video allegedly showed Blevins picking up an Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max and handing it to Bentley. Bentley then put the phone in her pocket and left the business.

Employees identified Blevins through the store’s customer rewards account, and detectives later confirmed his identity.

Blevins was charged with theft as a habitual offender due to two prior theft convictions in Shreveport. He was also already out on bond in connection with multiple alleged package thefts from earlier this year.

Bentley was wanted for theft.

The Shreveport Police Department asked anyone who knew the whereabouts of Blevins or Bentley to contact the department.

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Two SPD Lieutenants on Administrative Leave Over Private Security Conflict of Interest
Two Shreveport Police Department lieutenants have been placed on paid administrative leave while the department investigates whether their outside employment with a private security firm violates department policy. Lt. Mike Jones and Lt. Allison Azlin are listed as managers of Tactical Personal Security Solutions LLC, a company registered with the state in November 2025. SPD spokesperson Cpl. Chris Bordelon said the internal investigation will determine whether the private business poses a conflict of interest with their duties as police officers. There is no indication the two used city resources for their private security work. SPD said the lieutenants’ rank — unlike regular patrol officers — makes administrative leave necessary to ensure a fair and thorough investigation.

No Bomb Found at Captain Shreve; Female Suspect Being Sought
Shreveport police and the FBI have cleared Captain Shreve High School after a bomb threat was posted on Instagram Tuesday morning. No explosive device was found. The tip was initially reported to an FBI hotline, which then notified SPD around 11 a.m. School was not placed on lockdown. Investigators have determined the threat was made by a female and are working to identify and locate the suspect. The investigation remains ongoing.

Shreveport Police Seeking Man Wanted for Molestation of 14-Year-Old
Shreveport Police Sex Crimes detectives are asking for the public’s help locating Roy Scott, 51, who is wanted on a warrant for one count of molestation of a juvenile. Detectives were contacted Aug. 21 regarding allegations that a teenager had been sexually assaulted. An emergency forensic interview supported the allegations. Scott refused to cooperate with investigators and told detectives he was out of town. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact Shreveport Police or Shreveport-Caddo Crime Stoppers at 318-673-7373.

One Arrested, One Hospitalized After Bossier City Shooting on Wild Iris Drive
Bossier City Police responded to a shooting on Wild Iris Drive on the evening of Aug. 25, resulting in one arrest and one person hospitalized. Additional details on charges and the victim’s condition are expected from the Bossier City Police Department as the investigation continues.

Centenary College of Louisiana cut the ribbon on a new phase of Mickle Hall’s renovations on Tuesday, August 25, marking the completion of new ADA-compliant ramps into the science building. The ramps not only make access more convenient, but the project also created a completely new entrance to Mickle from The Quad.

Centenary President Dr. Christopher Holoman said this is a step in the right direction as the college continues to progress toward a new era of Mickle Hall. Currently, the health sciences draw a significant number of students to Centenary College. In fact, the pre-med program enjoys a 94 percent acceptance rate to medical school.

“The refreshing, the updating, the modernization of our science facilities generally has been on the radar and in the plans for decades. Today we mark a beginning,” said Holoman.

Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux was on hand to help cut the ribbon. Mickle was built nearly eighty years ago, and over the next few years will undergo a major transformation, turning it into a state-of-the-art facility.

“I believe that Mickle Hall is an anchor,” said Ross Barrett, chairman of Centenary’s Board of Trustees. “It’s an anchor that will attract students, that will attract researchers, and attract the next generation of doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals.”

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By DOUG IRELAND Journal Sports

ATLANTA – Sam Burns’ superior summer-long performance has him standing eighth in the field of 30 finalists teeing off today in the $40 million Tour Championship, the final event of the 2026 PGA Tour season.

The 30-year-old Shreveport native, a three-time state champion at Calvary Baptist as a teenager, drives off the first tee at 12:24 paired with Collin Morikawa. Golf Channel will have live coverage of their round.

His last three outings in this event, at East Lake Golf Club, are more reason golf analysts are elevating him into the contenders’ group for the $10 million winner’s purse. SportsLine’s computer program, featured  by CBS Sports, ranks him as the player to beat and he is teeing off with +1500 odds.

Burns tied for seventh last year, was 12^th in 2024 and ninth in 2023. This will be his sixth straight Tour Championship, reserved for the top 30 finishers in the season-long FedEx Cup points race.

But after a terrific eight-event run, the most recent outing last week was mediocre, especially by his standards. Burns finished 28^th in the 50-player BMW Championship, but was already assured of reaching this week’s ultimate event due to his exceptional play since early May and his career-best overall season.

The two-time LSU All-American, now a resident of Choudrant, had an eight-event run with six top 20 finishes, including four top fives in a six-tournament span from June 7 (fourth at The Memorial) to Aug. 16 (third at the FedEx St. Jude Championship). He was second at the U.S. Open and third at the British Open after a seventh-place finish at The Masters in April.

All 30 players this week have earned a two-year PGA Tour exemption and entry into next season’s signature events, including all four major championships.

Friday’s coverage starts at 10 a.m. on ESPN, through noon, then shifts to Golf Channel. Weekend TV begins at noon on Golf Channel with CBS picking up tournament action at 2 Saturday and Sunday.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

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 JOURNAL SPORTS

Every local high school football team is lining up in a jamboree this weekend, beginning tonight with two local matchups.

Shreveport’s biggest rivalry is revived in truncated form when the Byrd Yellow Jackets meet the Captain Shreve Gators at 6 o’clock in Lee Hedges Stadium, for two quarters of competition. It’s a preview of in the 49th annual “Backyard Brawl” that will complete the 10-game regular season in the same location on Nov. 10.

The other jamboree contest tonight, also at 6, pits Huntington against Northwood at Independence Stadium.

The Shreve-Byrd rivalry is more familiar than usual in football. The Gators and Yellow Jackets also collided in a preseason jamboree last year.

Players from both teams fielded media questions early this month at the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl High School Media Day.

Chris Hill, Captain Shreve, WR

What’s your expectation for the Gators this fall?

“Definitely go further than the last five years, at least. I think we’re so underrated. I know we have weapons all around, not just at one position. I know we have multiple guys that can do the job. We’re all special players and we know what to do when the ball gets in our hands.”

What makes it a good season individually?

“Just doing my job to the best of my ability, showcasing things I didn’t get to last year. I’ll get more opportunities and I want to show everybody what I’ve got.”

What is that? Describe yourself as a player.

“I’m a dog who’s going to do his job. Always a team player who’s going to uplift his teammates and be a leader on the field. I’m an all-around type of receiver, a real talented guy who can go up top and catch the ball, get yards after the catch, anything you need.

“I’m a great teammate. I always cheer for my guys. I’m looking out for them, trying to show them what it’s like to be a leader.”

How are you as a student?

“I’m a good student in the classroom, a 4.0 GPA.”

Christian Maxie, Byrd, RB

What will fans see when you’re on the field?

“When they’re watching me, they’ll see explosiveness, speed, strength, vision … I’m just an all-around player. I can do anything, anywhere. Put me on defense, too. I’m an all-around ball player.

“My best attribute is being able to make a move in open space using my vision. I feel like I have the best vision in the state.”

As a senior, how do you fulfill leadership responsibilities?

“I’m a great leader. I always help the younger players. They’re always asking for advice, and it’s to take their time, don’t rush the game. The game comes to you.”

Academically, what’s your approach?

“I’m locked in during classes. I’m trying to go to college and play football and my academics have to be lined up to get that done.”

Conrad Hilliard, Byrd, DE

Any advice to defensive players on how to defend Maxie (who ran for 1,574 yards and 21 touchdowns last year, scoring a school-record six in one game)?

“You can’t. There’s no advice I can give you. I’m glad he’s on my team.”

You see him every day in practice. How do you try to stop him?

“He lines up on the other side. He doesn’t want to go against me!”

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By BRAD WELBORN, Northwestern State Athletic Communications

NATCHITOCHES — There will be plenty to see when Northwestern State and Louisiana Christian kick off the 2026 football season tonight.

There will be the lights illuminating Turpin Stadium. The annual Inferno Run. The Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band will be in full voice. Thousands of fans will be encouraged to wear purple as the Demons celebrate Purple Reign Night.

And, if the weather cooperates with relatively clear skies, about 9:30 there will be a lunar eclipse unfolding above it all.

Most importantly though, there will be football.

The Demons open the 2026 season by welcoming LCU’s Wildcats to Turpin Stadium for a 7 p.m. kickoff, beginning NSU’s third season under head coach Blaine McCorkle.

The game will air live on ESPN+ with Patrick Netherton returning for another season of play-by-play action. He will be joined by analyst Tyler Moody and sideline reporter Jason Pugh. It will also air locally in Natchitoches on 100.7 FM KZBL with Chris Salim and Jay Thomas.

“It should be a good crowd and a good atmosphere. And it definitely is not going to rain and there won’t be any lightning delays,” McCorkle joked. “Fully expect LC to bring a good crowd up here being so close and it should be a good night for football. Excited to get out there, hear the band, see the lights on. There’s nothing like college football at night. It’s special.”

The matchup itself is a special one for its rarity.

Northwestern and Louisiana Christian will meet for the first time since 1968, ending a nearly six-decade gap between two programs that once met on a near-annual basis from 1922 through 1968.

The Wildcats bring plenty of credentials into tonight’s matchup. LCU has won its NAIA conference championship in two of the past three seasons and presents the Demons an experienced opponent to open the year.

For Northwestern, the goal is to make its own bit of history.

The Demons are looking to open a season with a victory for the second consecutive year, something they have not accomplished since the 2007 and 2008 seasons. Last year, NSU snapped a long season-opening drought with a 20-10 victory against Alcorn State, giving the Demons their first season-opening win since Zach Adkins led NSU past Missouri State in 2013.

Abram Johnston played a major role in that victory, making just his third career start at the time.

Now, Johnston enters as the established starter, becoming the first Northwestern quarterback since 2021 to open consecutive seasons as the team’s No. 1 signal caller. He will make his 14th career start against the Wildcats.

“I definitely feel more at ease and more prepared going into this year,” Johnston said. “But knowing that, even after we won that first game, the results of the season I feel the pressure of us wanting to play better and perform. I know it’s a long season but that’s why this game in front of us is super important to get us off on the right foot. So there’s an ease but also knowing where we need to improve to do what needs to get done this year.”

Johnston and the Demons enter the season looking to build on the progress they made during McCorkle’s second season.

In FCS games the Demons increased its production from year one to year two in points, first downs, rushing yards, total yards and time of possession. The next step is turning that statistical progression into more results on the scoreboard.

“The maturation of this team has been fun to watch throughout the spring and fall,” McCorkle said. “I think we’re all excited to see that really start to show some results on the field and the scoreboard.”

That process begins with playing a clean game.

“You want to play good, clean football early on,” McCorkle said. “They always say you see the biggest improvement in the team between game one and game two. It’s an old coaching adage but it’s very true. You don’t want a sloppy game one. You want to play hard. Play tough. Play fast and free. But you want to be disciplined at the same time. If we can do that and what we’re coached to do to the best of our ability, we’ll be in good shape.”

One of the biggest areas of intrigue for the Demons will be the defensive secondary.

Northwestern has an influx of new faces in the back end of its defense, and those players will be tested immediately by an explosive Louisiana Christian offense that likes to push the tempo and features an experienced group of skill players.

Among the veterans helping lead that new-look secondary is captain and graduate safety Christian Williams, who knows firsthand what a season-opening splash can do.

Williams recorded the first interception of his career in last season’s victory against Alcorn State. He wouldn’t mind repeating the feat this year.

“I would love to get another one in this game,” Williams said with a laugh. “I’m hoping that everybody in the secondary can get their hands on the ball.”

Before that can happen, however, the Demons will have to keep pace with the Wildcats.

“Handling their tempo is our biggest focus,” Williams said. “They move really fast and they have athletes on the perimeter just like we do. It’ll be a challenge in the secondary but we’re ready for everything. Our coaches do a great job of preparing us every day, so we’ll be ready.”

Williams has embraced an expanded leadership role as he prepares to anchor a group that will be asked to grow up quickly.

“I’m trying to be more vocal as one of the leaders on the team and in the secondary,” Williams said. “Speak up more when I need to speak up. If guys are slipping up off the field, stepping up and letting them know that I’m there for them. And especially with the freshman. Just setting a good example for guys to look up to.”

The matchup provides the Demons with an opportunity to take another step in their progression and to do it in front of a home crowd, under the lights and, for at least part of the night, beneath an eclipsed moon.

Contact Brad at welbornb@nsula.edu

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By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

PINEVILLE — Northwestern State football coach Blaine McCorkle told the Demon Quarterback Club lunch crowd Wednesday that he’s seen some predictions picking NAIA power Louisiana Christian to beat his team in tonight’s 7 p.m. season opener at Turpin Stadium in Natchitoches.

The Wildcats have won their Sooner Athletic Conference championship twice in three years, and return 18 of 22 starters from last year’s 8-3 team under third-year coach Ben McLaughlin.

The Demons are still recovering from having their 2023 season halted with four games to go, and a complete rebuild since McCorkle stepped into the rubble that December. Northwestern was winless in his first season, and 1-11 last year, breaking an overall 17-game skid in its opener but missing three last-minute chances to do any better last fall.

Maybe this isn’t a typical NCAA Division I (FCS) against NAIA matchup, but McLaughlin isn’t buying that rationale.

“If anybody’s picking us to win they’re trying to fire up Coach McCorkle and his guys,” he said, laughing. “Now I have supreme confidence that our guys are going to play to win the game. If they were going to play the Dallas Cowboys, I’d expect our guys to feel that way.

“You can’t get on that bus to beat a Division I team. To win any game, especially a big game like this, you’ve gotta win a half, and to do that, you’ve gotta win a quarter, and to win a quarter, you’ve gotta win a few drives, and to do that, you’ve gotta win some plays.

“We’re telling our guys go up and have fun. Enjoy the atmosphere, the ESPN cameras, and every snap, try to whip the guy in front of you. If you can beat him more than he beats you, you can win some plays and you can win a game. Just go play football.”

Against a lot of Demons who they’ve seen before, in high school. Both teams have rosters filled with Louisiana products.

“A lot of these guys have been high school teammates or opponents of their players. We’re saying, ‘you probably beat him some in high school, so know that you’re just as good as a lot of their players are individually,” said McLaughlin.

“We all know the Division I offensive linemen are a different size, and there’s a lot (of NSU advantages) that’s common sense, but our players are really good too. They believe they’re going to win a lot of reps, and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

In the grand scheme, both coaches want to see their teams play well. A loss would obviously be a disaster for the Demons, but not necessarily for the Wildcats, who have been pounded in their last two season openers by NSU’s Southland Conference cousins Houston Christian (70-7 in 2024) and McNeese (54-9 last fall, in a game that was 17-9 midway through the second quarter).

“If we win this game, and it’s the biggest win in school history, and we lose the rest of them, this season is a failure. If they beat us by 50 and we win the rest of our games, it will be the best season in school history,” said McLaughlin. “Keep this in perspective. I want our kids to play to the standard we want to play, and if we’ve played our tails off, I can sleep well.”

The Wildcats have an extra edge. New defensive backs coach T.J. Hersey has been alongside McCorkle for the past six years, as a player at Division III Belhaven and for the past two years as a graduate assistant coach with the Demons.

“Blaine recommended him and any time a coach vouches for a player he’s been around four seasons as a player and then as a graduate assistant coach, you know it’s a home run. It will be a cool experience for him to be a full-time coach across the field from the man who coached him and gave him his first job,” said McLaughlin, who did not back away from acknowledging Hersey’s insight has been extremely beneficial in game preparation this week.

“Yes sir, that’s exactly right, yes sir,” he said. 

The Demons have developed a young but pretty experienced roster, with 56 returning letterwinners, most second and third-year players. But only seven have started at least a full season.

The Wildcats, however, return 10 offensive starters from a unit that averaged 36.5 points and have eight defensive starters and their punter/kicker back, along with a dozen other veterans.

Among other players: Centenary transfer running back Obadiah Butler, who averaged 110 rushing yards in conference games last fall, and 2024 Shreveport-Bossier Journal high school Player of the Year Brandon Henderson, a receiver from Woodlawn High.

“We’re an anomaly right now. We’ve got a lot of old guys, which is rare in college football these days,” said McLaughlin. “We’re one of the few old teams around, so that’s nice. On paper, this could be a team that can take another step in the right direction. Everybody celebrated last season, and they earned it, but we’re not talking about that any more.”

Along with reviving a series dormant since 1968, tonight’s game is a financial windfall for LCU with the guarantee check it gets for visiting the Demons, just like the ones each of the last two years from HCU and McNeese.

“I thank Coach McCorkle so much, because this allows us to function financially in a way that makes our kids feel they’re a real college football program. We take this (revenue) and pour it right back into them to make their football experience at Louisiana Christian University. That is the Number 1 reason we’re doing this,” said McLaughlin.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

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By MATT VINES, LSU Shreveport Public Relations

WALKER, Minn. — All four LSU Shreveport Fishing boats finished well inside the top half at the 2026 Strike King Bassmaster College Championship on Leech Lake this past weekend.

Caden Williamson and Bryce Distefano were the Pilots’ top pair with a 22^nd-place showing, hauling in 31 pounds in their two days.

A strong second day vaulted Triston Richardson and Johnny Hudson Jr. into 30^th with a bag of 29-1.

Hunter Hamilton and Tyler Morris also made moves on Day 2 with 15-1 of their 28-2 coming on the second day.

John Klanchar and Ian Carter posted a 25-15 to place No. 51 in the 134-boat field.

Hamilton said LSUS anglers sought the familiar large-mouth bass they are prevalent in southern lakes as opposed to chasing small-mouth bass that exist in northern lakes.

“We definitely looked for grassy cover and the large-mouth bass that we are used to,” Hamilton said. “There were a lot more rocky cliffs and steep slopes than we normally see, but we were able to break down the lake together over our three practice days.

“To start the season off like this gives us a big confidence boost.”

Hamilton added that LSUS anglers maneuvered wave swells that reached four feet, much different than the calm waters in the South.

Points from the event kick start the 2026-27 season while anglers qualified from the strength of their performances throughout Bassmaster events from season just ended.

Heading into the Bassmasters College Championships, LSUS finished the season ranked No. 9, its third straight season of top-10 finishes.

LSUS coach Charles Thompson said having all four boats fish well at Bassmasters is a nice way to start the upcoming season, especially in a part of the country where LSUS doesn’t typically fish.

“This is probably the best start to a season that we’ve have at Bassmasters because this is an event that usually has our number,” Thompson said. “We don’t fish close to home in this event, and many times, we’re having to dig out of a (points) hole because we don’t fare extremely well at this championship in past years.

“We’re very happy for this kind of start, and we can really use our fall tournaments to springboard us to where we aren’t chasing (the leading programs) as much.”

The Pilots will fish a couple of events this fall but will open the throttle in the spring as they’ll rack up many of their points during the spawn (mating season), taking advantage of their expertise in shallow water with cover.

Thompson said an eager crop of five freshmen should mix well with the blend of veteran and underclassmen anglers as LSUS seeks to crack the top five nationally this season in a sport that has no divisions.

The program’s consistency led to two new sponsorship deals with EVOLV Fishing and BUBBA Seaguar, which underpins the financial stability as the Pilots continue to push into the championship-level stratosphere.

Contact Matt at matt.vines@lsus.edu

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Louis Eugene “Gene” Williams, Jr., of Bossier City, Louisiana, went to be with the Lord on August 24th, 2026 at the age of 71. He was born on March 11, 1955, in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Gene was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His family was the center of his world, and he took great pride in the people he loved. His contagious laughter, unwavering love, and the way he was always looking out for them will be treasured forever.

One of Gene’s greatest passions was the fire service. He devoted more than 33 years of his life to the Shreveport Fire Department, dedicating himself to helping and saving others. He retired in 2014 as a Battalion Chief, but his love for the department never left him.

Gene especially enjoyed training new recruits and spent countless hours helping applicants prepare for the CPAT agility test during his time there.  He took great pride in helping others succeed and was always willing to share his knowledge and experience.

Gene was an avid hunter and loved the outdoors. Some of his happiest times were spent at the deer camp with his friends, sharing stories, laughter, and playing dominoes at the camp house in Coushatta. These memories will be treasured by all who had the privilege of sharing those moments with him.

If you were lucky enough to call Gene your friend, you had a friend for life. He loved laughter, raw humor, and the camaraderie he shared with his fire department family and hunting buddies. Gene was the life of the party and was never at a loss for words. His unmistakable laughter could bring a smile to your face, even on the hardest of days.

During his final days, Gene’s love for the fire department remained as strong as ever. He often returned to memories from his years with the department, reliving moments and talking about wanting to go back to work. It was clear that being a firefighter was not simply a career for Gene—it was a part of who he was.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Julie Williams; his children, Eugenia Williams and fiancé Jeff Bolfer, William Barnes and wife Jennifer, and Brittany Barnes; and his four grandchildren, Gavin Williams, Jadon Grant, Riley Barnes, and Graham Barnes. He is also survived by his sister, Diane Connell, and husband Richard; many cousins, nieces, and nephews; and many other loving family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Eugene Williams Sr. and Barbara Jean Williams.

The family would especially like to thank Michael Cook and Rusty Thames for the countless hours they spent sitting with Gene, caring for him, and loving on him during his final days. Their friendship and compassion meant more than words can express.  The family would also like to thank Dr. Paul Guidry for his exceptional care and Life Path hospice for their empathy and compassion during this time.  

A memorial service celebrating Gene’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 28, 2026, at Open Range Fellowship 9950 US 80, Greenwood, La 71033. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m.

Graveside with follow at Forest Park East. 

Gene will be deeply missed by his family, his fire department family, his hunting buddies, and the many friends whose lives he touched.

His laughter, his stories, his friendship, and his generous heart will live on in the memories of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the Dementia Society of America in honor of Gene.

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Sue Bess Long Kerbow, 89, of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away on August 7, 2026.

Sue was born on January 8, 1937, in Coushatta, Louisiana, to Zuma and Ruby Long. She was one of nine children.

Sue was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Jerald Kerbow; her daughter, Debbie Kerbow David; her son, David Jerald Kerbow; and her grandson, Danny Mark David II.

She is survived by her granddaughter, Amanda David VanHoose; son-in-law, Danny Mark David; great-grandchildren, Preston VanHoose and Londyn VanHoose; and sister, Wanda Tharpe.

No funeral or memorial services will be held. The family asks that those who knew her remember her in their own way and cherish the memories they shared.

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Phonetic: /con·​fla·​gra·​tion/

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition

fire

especially : a large disastrous fire
The conflagration destroyed the warehouses.


conflict, war
The conflagration between the two countries lasted for ten year