By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

NEW ORLEANS — There’s been a sense of destiny around this Calvary Baptist football team since the Cavs turned the page from last season.

Signature early wins over big-school city foes Byrd and Captain Shreve embellished it. Toppling two other tough non-district customers, Wossman and especially a Westgate team that almost derailed Ruston’s run to its own state title, heightened the feeling.

But even during playoff victories at home over strong teams from Parkview Baptist and Newman, the Cavaliers never stared at bleak prospects coming down to the wire.

That’s where the sense of destiny came in handy Saturday evening in the clutch at the Caesars’ Superdome, in the LHSAA’s Division III Select state championship game.

Finally, Calvary stared at a scoreboard with a grim count — but didn’t blink. The Cavaliers scored the game’s last three touchdowns, the last two in the final three minutes, the last one with 18 seconds left and erased a 15-point deficit to set off a perfect championship celebration – sidetracked, briefly and appropriately enough, by one final replay — capping a stunning 34-28 victory over two-time defending champion St. Charles Catholic.

The game-winning TD was a 20-yard Abram Wardell throw down the middle to Kolby Thomas, finishing a five-snap, 51-yard drive that began just 26 seconds earlier.

It was only possible by a foot or so, the distance Calvary’s defense didn’t yield on fourth-and-1 just past midfield with 50 seconds to go. Comets’ coach Wayne Stein decided against punting and defending a Cavs’ attack that had just zoomed 80 yards on seven plays to draw within 28-26 on Aubrey Hermes’ 20-yard catch from Wardell with 2:47 remaining.

St. Charles needed two first downs to wipe that time away, stretch its win streak to 21 and three-peat. But the blend of confusion in the fourth-down huddle, after a timeout, plus Calvary’s defense was a lethal combination. Following a measurement, and TV replay confirmation, it provided the chance the Cavs cashed in.

“It was a half yard to win the state championship, and I felt good about the matchup,” said Stein. “We had a little miscommunication but (quarterback) Brady (St. Pierre) did a great job of almost salvaging it.

“I still felt confident in our defense. We’ve had one of the best defenses in the state. But I tip my cap to Calvary. It’s about what they did, not about what we didn’t do.”

The Cavs’ last two scoring drives combined took just a second under two minutes, reflecting their quick-strike ability, and self-belief.

“The kids know we can score the football. We have all year long,” said coach Rodney Guin, finally celebrating triumph in the Caesars Superdome to end his 23^rd season as a head coach, his 41^st overall, and his seventh at Calvary.

“One thing they have, is they’re confident. Sometimes I think they’re too confident. We got the first touchdown (down 28-13) and (then) we weren’t going for a field goal at the end. They blocked our first extra point. For us, it was score or get beat,” he said.

“They gave us a chance, going for it on fourth down,” said Guin, “and (we got) a short field and great plays by the quarterback.”

Wardell found Thomas on a 19-yard curl route down to the SCC 32, then spiked the ball before he scrambled 12 yards out of bounds at the 20 with 36 seconds left. He unsuccessfully tried to find John Simon IV in the left corner of the end zone and 26 ticks remained.

On the first snap, Wardell said he was “looking off the safety, trying to bait him to the left, and then to come back to my guy KT. Then on the bender, he beat his man, and that’s all she wrote.”

The game-winner, said Thomas, “was an option route. I could go in, or I could go straight. I faked in, and went straight, and beat him. My quarterback played great all night, and he threw up a 50-50 ball, trusted me to get it, and I went up and got it.”

The Comets had struck on first-half touchdowns of 68 and 46 yards but couldn’t dial up any last-second magic. Calvary’s celebration charge was initially repelled by the refs, who had to use replay once more to sort through if a last-gasp botched hook-and-ladder pass play was a fumble, or an incompletion, and most critically, if there was time left on the clock.

There wasn’t, prompting unbridled joy as the Cavaliers’ fourth state title, and their first perfect season, was secured.

Said SCC’s Stein: “I thought if we got it into late in the fourth quarter, it was our advantage because we’ve been in those more than they have this year. But give credit to their kids and coaching staff for finding a way to get it done.”

It resulted from 249 passing yards by Wardell on 24-of-32 aim to six receivers, and 191 hard-earned rushing yards on a career-high 30 carries by Calvary’s Prep Classic Most Outstanding Player, junior running back James Simon. His three TDs were first-half darts of 1 and 3 yards, then a 25-yarder late in the third quarter to finish a vital 10-play, 82-yard march that launched Calvary’s comeback.

“We didn’t do anything different,” said Guin, explaining the rally. “I think they got a little tired in the second half, and we finally made some plays. We didn’t make plays in the first half, we drove the ball and didn’t score. When it was on the line, we came through.”

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

By RON HIGGINS, Journal Sports

BATON ROUGE — Through all the trials and tribulations of Jayden Daniels’ football career that started on the playgrounds of his California home in San Bernadino and advanced to college football’s grandest stages, he’s lived by one credo.

If you get knocked down, get back up, keep smiling and never give up on your dreams.

In Daniels’ 22 years on earth, except for the death of his beloved grandparents from COVID in early 2021, his friends, family and teammates have never seen him drop his head. He just processes things as they come and moves on.

Until Saturday in New York City when the LSU senior quarterback heard his name announced as the 89th annual winner of the Heisman Trophy given to college football’s best player.

“I was like `It’s here, I’m finally hearing my name’,” Daniels said of his head drop. “It was the suspense of `are you going to win or not?’ Hearing your name is like a big weight off my shoulders. It was something I dreamed about, growing up and winning the Heisman Trophy.”

Daniels received 503 first-place votes and 2,029 total points to join halfback Billy Cannon (1959) and QB Joe Burrow (2019) as LSU’s trio of Heisman winners.

Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was second behind Daniels in the voting (292, 1,701), Oregon quarterback Bo Nix was third (51, 885), and Ohio State receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. came in fourth (20, 352).

Daniels’ 328-point margin of victory over Penix marked the closest Heisman voting since 2018 when Oklahoma QB Kyler Murray won by 296 points over Alabama QB Tua Tagovailoa.

The Heisman is Daniels’ sixth postseason award. He’s also won the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award, the Associated Press National Player of the Year, the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and the AP and Coaches SEC Player of the Year.

LSU’s Brian Kelly, who had the first Heisman winner of his 34-year head coaching career, said Daniels’ SEC single-game record of 606 total offense yards and five TDs including scoring sprints of 85 and 51 yards vs. Florida on Nov. 11 catapulted Daniels into the thick of the Heisman race.

It came a week after Daniels was knocked out of a 42-28 loss at Alabama early in the fourth quarter with a helmet-to-helmet hit by Crimson Tide linebacker Dallas Turner.

“He was in a concussion protocol,” Kelly said of Daniels. “In many instances in my career, quarterbacks don’t come back from that. It takes time. He comes back with one of the most exciting and historic games the next week against a rival in Florida.”

As the best dual-threat QB in LSU history, Daniels posted historical numbers this season for the 13th-ranked 9-3 Tigers, who will play Wisconsin in the Jan. 1 ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa. Daniels said in his post-Heisman press conference that he hasn’t decided yet on whether he play in the game or preserve his health as a first-round NFL Draft pick. LSU begins bowl practice on Monday.

Despite LSU not being a playoff contender because of a porous defense, Heisman voters could not ignore Daniels’ brilliance.

He’s first in the nation in total offense (412.2), passing TDs (40), TDs responsible for (50), yards per pass attempt (11.7), yards per play (10.71), rushing yards by a quarterback (1,134), passer efficiency rating (208.01, the highest in FBS history) and plays 20 yards or more (88).

Daniels, who transferred to LSU in the spring of 2022 after starting 29 games in three seasons for Arizona State, made good use of his five-minute acceptance speech.

He thanked his high school and college coaches, his quarterback coach in California, LSU teammate Greg Brooks Jr. who has been hospitalized since September battling brain cancer, and acknowledged the behind-the-scenes staff at the LSU football complex who greeted him at 5 in the morning during his daily pre-sunrise film session studies.

Daniels also gave kudos to both his Arizona State and LSU teammates, particularly his Tigers’ starting offensive line of tackles Will Campbell and Emery Jones Jr., guards Garrett Dellinger and Miles Frazier and center Charles Turner.

“Thank you, guys, for getting me here today in one piece,” Daniels said. “I know it wasn’t easy, I scramble around a lot. I love you guys.”

He also gave a nod to the LSU fanbase.

“I want to thank every single LSU fan for having my back,” Daniels said. “I’ve never seen fans pouring their hearts into a team like LSU. I wish I could have brought you back another (national) championship. But God had other plans for me.”

Daniels saved his most heartfelt appreciation for his father Jay Daniels and his mother Regina Jackson.

“You put a football in my hands when I was young,” Daniels said of his father, who was a college cornerback at Washington and then Iowa State. “You taught me how to play, lead and be calm no matter the situation. I know I wouldn’t be on this stage if it wasn’t for you.”

Daniels called his mother “my rock.”

“You were so nervous when I played my first high school game that you couldn’t watch my first high school touchdown . . .you closed your eyes,” Daniels said. “After that, you never took your eyes off the field.

“You always had my best interest at heart from day one. And you showed me tough love when I needed it. You instilled in me the hard-working mentality that got me here and you always helped me keep my eyes on the prize.

“You encouraged me to always bet on myself because you always believed in me no matter what. I graduated in three years (from college) because that was something you pushed me to do.”

Daniels, who said afterward he thanked former Houston star Andre Ware for blazing the trail as the first African-American QB to win the Heisman in 1989, also made sure to dedicate winning the Heisman to all boys and girls who have big dreams.

“With faith and hard work, you never know what’s possible,” Daniels said. “They said I was too skinny. . . so I went to work.

“What did I learn from all this? I learned how to block out the noise, that you can overcome any obstacle, just be humble, just be legendary and most important, be joyful about what you do.”

Contact Ron at ronhigginsmedia@gmail.com

NEW ORLEANS — “Big time players make big time plays in big-time games.”

Calvary head coach Rodney Guin made the comment after his Calvary team won their last state championship in 2020 at Northwestern State’s Turpin Stadium. And he made the same comment Saturday evening after an incredible 34-28 comeback in the Crescent City to defeat the two-time defending state champion St. Charles Catholic Comets.

It was a storybook finish to a truly perfect season for Calvary, who finishes the season with an unblemished 14-0 record – the first perfect season in program history.

“At the end, it was like ‘is this really going to happen?’” Guin said. 

Yes, coach! It really did.

Calvary’s biggest “big time” player was junior running back James Simon, who followed in his father’s footsteps by scoring three touchdowns in the championship game on his way to winning the trophy as his team’s Most Outstanding Player – just like his father, Grambling interim head coach John Simon, did in 1996. Simon finished with 191 yards on 30 carries. 

When Simon was asked who the best athlete in the family is, Simon responded with a grin, “you’re talking to him.”

“They don’t lack in the confidence department,” Guin said, more than once.

While Simon was Calvary’s award-winner, the biggest play came through the air when junior quarterback Abram Wardell found Kolby Thomas who was running a skinny post to the end zone and pulled in the pass with 18 seconds left on the clock.

“I looked left to get the safety moving in that direction, and I knew my guy K.T. would be there,” Wardell said. Wardell finished 249 yard passing after completing 24 of 32 passes. 

It wasn’t that Calvary beat St. Charles Catholic. It was how they beat St. Charles Catholic, who made big plays of their own and led 21-13 at the half, and then came out after halftime and got another score to extend their lead to 28-13 with 6:16 left to go in the third quarter.

At that point in the game, time was not on Calvary’s side, but conditioning was.

“I feel like we were on our heels there at the end,” St. Charles Catholic head coach Wayne Stein said. “And they were on their toes. They did what good teams do. They found a way to win the game. Credit their coaches and players.”

During the fourth quarter, with 9:32 left, St. Charles Catholic had a 62-yard, nine play drive which ended with a missed field goal. Calvary went 80 yards on seven plays and scored on a 20-yard Wardell touchdown pass to Aubrey Hermes.

The touchdown brought the Cavaliers within two points, but they needed another stop and that’s exactly what they got thanks to Ethan Sands and Landon Houston stuffing Comet quarterback Brady St. Pierre on a 4th-and-1 at midfield with 44 seconds remaining.

A few years ago, Guin’s Calvary teams would fold in situations like these late in the game. And while he is the dean of local head coaches with 23 years of head coaching experience, he is not too old to learn new tricks. 

In was in those losses deep in the playoffs he learned he and his coaching staff had to have the Cavs in condition to play four quarters. 

“Our season is really three pieces,” Guin said. “We play really, really tough (opponents) early in the year and then just because of who we play we get in a stretch there where we don’t get a whole lot of reps just because of who we play. We have worked very hard.  We ran every day. It doesn’t matter who we play. We lift the whole year. We never stopped. Including this week. They buy into the process.”

While Guin may have used the same quote in the postgame press conference about big-time players, he took back something he said in 2020. 

“We won this championship in 2020 at Northwestern and I told people that I don’t think it matters where you play – it’s just winning the championship,” Guin said. “This is different. I’m going to tell you. Whoever says that … they’re wrong.”

Hollywood could not have scripted a better ending for Guin and the Cavaliers than this ending to their storybook season. There was no place like the the Dome for the Cavaliers Saturday afternoon. It was absolutely perfect.

Contact Jerry at sbjjerrybyrd@gmail.com

JOURNAL SPORTS

SC – Daniel Joseph 68 pass from Brady St. Pierre (Tyler Milioto kick)

CBA – James Simon 1 run (kick blocked)

SC – Jeramiah Wills 46 run (Milioto kick)

CBA – Ja. Simon 3 run (Ty Knight kick)

SC – Joseph 14 pass from St. Pierre (Milioto kick)

SC – Wills 4 run (Milioto kick)

CBA – Ja. Simon 25 run (pass failed)

CBA – Aubrey Hermes 20 pass from Abram Wardell (Knight kick)

CBA – Kolby Thomas 20 pass from Wardell (Thomas pass from Wardell)

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING

Calvary – Ja. Simon 30-191, 3 TDs; Julius Moss 2-4; Wardell 8-3; Team 1-minus-2.

St. Charles – Skyler Edwards 12-82; J. Wills 13-73, 2 TDs; Noah Tucker 2-32; St. Pierre 7-6; Jackson Monica 1-1.

PASSING

Calvary – Wardell 24-32-1-249, 2 TDs.

St. Charles – St. Pierre 8-12-0-132, 2 TDs

RECEIVING

Calvary – Hermes 7-96, 1 TD; Thomas 6-61, 1 TD; John Simon IV 5-54; Taylor Guerrero 3-31; Chris Jackson 2-7; Ja. Simon 1-0.

St. Charles – D. Joseph 4-96, 2 TDs; N. Tucker 1-13; Brandon Kragle 1-11; S. Edwards 1-7; J. Monica 1-5.

DEFENSE

Solo-Assists—Total Tackles

Calvary – Hutch Grace 5-3—8; J. Moss 4-3—7; Landon Sylvie 4-1—5; Braylun Huglon 4-0—4; Heath Gross 2-3—5; Lavorziesa Houston 2-3—5; Detravion Davis 3-0—3; Ethan Sands 2-1—3; Cole Miller 2-1—3; Chaz Whitaker 2-0—2; Luke Miller 2-0—2; David Weeks 1-1—2; Hudson Price 1-0—1; T. Guerrero 1-0—1; Nate Young 1-0—1.

St. Charles – Logan Barrios 8-2—10; Kaden Foster 5-3—8; Jaden Breaux 5-2—7; Matthew Loup Jr. 5-2—7; Kyle Cannon 5-2—7; Kayden Cambre 5-1—6; ReShawn Hilaire 5-0—5; Andrew Bosco 4-2—6; Brayden Bertucci 3-2—5; Shane Zimmerman 3-0—3; J. Wills 2-0—2; Dax Pregeant 1-2—3; Hudson Heltz 1-0—1.

By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

NEW ORLEANS – Among the eight state championship football games contested over three days and long nights at the LHSAA’s Prep Classic, only a couple didn’t come down to the closing minutes.

Only one paired the division’s top two seeded teams, both unbeaten.

Saturday’s late afternoon-into-evening Calvary-St. Charles Catholic collision in the Division III Select title game was everything it should have been.

“That’s what a state championship game is supposed to look like,” said Comets’ coach Wayne Stein, who should know – he’s coached in five straight in football, winning the previous two as SCC’s head coach, along with taking part in nine baseball finals, capturing two straight and three of the last four under his leadership.

St. Charles’ bid for a three-peat in football was yanked away in the final minute Saturday evening faster than customers at nearby Bourbon Street simultaneously rushed to get one more round before happy hour ended.

Calvary stymied SCC on fourth-and-less than 1 just past midfield, took over with 44 seconds to go and no time outs, and 26 seconds later finished a game-winning 51-yard, five-play drive on Kolby Thomas’ 20-yard touchdown catch from Abram Wardell to pull out an epic 34-28 comebacker.

The Cavaliers (14-0), the No. 2 seed in the playoff bracket but the No. 1-ranked team in the LSWA’s Class 2A poll, stunned the top-seeded Comets (13-1), who were second in the sportswriters’ voting all season. Calvary only led for the final 18 seconds and trailed 28-13 late in the third quarter.

“It’s hard for me to be sad, because we’ve been on the other side of that,” said Stein, whose 2022 squad rallied from 11 down to dump Dunham 32-28 exactly a year ago.

“We came up a couple inches short, but give Calvary all the credit,” he said. “Their kids had a mindset, and we were playing like, ‘OK, we’ve got a nine-point lead, let’s hang on.’”

They nearly did. But Calvary stayed calm and carried on.

“I knew we could do it,” said Thomas. “We were down two possessions and we needed a (defensive) stop, but I knew we could do it.” 

Cavaliers’ coach Rodney Guin was equally confident his defense had what it took.

“We’ve made big defensive plays in the last two games,” he said, notably citing a pair of end zone interceptions by safety Landon Sylvie. “They just get overshadowed, but they haven’t given up much all year long (never more than 28 points). Those guys did a great job and got the stop we had to have.”

“We all knew that was the game,” said safety Julius Moss, second among the Cavs with four solo stops including a sack, and three assisted tackles. “We knew they were gonna run it. I thought they were gonna sneak it. But my inside guys and the linebackers, they made the play.”

Then, they waited. First, on the slow-moving chain gang to perform the agonizing measurement that barely fell Calvary’s way. Then, for a TV replay reviewing the officials’ spot, which took even longer than the on-field evaluation.

“That was very nerve-wracking, but I knew we had stopped them. And when we got the ball, I knew we were gonna win,” said Moss about the moments after defensive end Tre Houston and tackle Ethan Sands were credited with the decisive stop giving Calvary all it wanted – a chance.

That defense gradually clamped down. With 206 first-half yards as they built a 21-13 halftime advantage, the Comets nearly matched Calvary’s 211. But afterward, the Cavs allowed just 120 while their offense piled up 234 – including 222 on their last four possessions, three ending with touchdowns.

Most importantly, St. Charles did not score after the 6:16 mark of the third period. Its best movement after halftime, a nine-snap, 62-yard series, was pointless when a field goal clanged off the left upright on fourth-and-4 at the Calvary 10 with 4:20 remaining.

“We told them all week long, we had to keep the game in the 20s,” said Guin. “They’re good on defense, and if they got it up in the 30s, I thought we’d have a hard time winning.”

The Cavs did have a hard time winning. But the barely off-target field goal seemed to set off Calvary on a game-ending championship run.

“I honestly don’t know what I was thinking,” said Thomas not long after his clinching TD catch. “My brain was scrambled – I was excited, pumped up. Now, I want to cry, but I’m just happy, man. This is what we wanted.”

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

JOURNAL SPORTS

The 2023 LHSAA state championship football games played at Caesars Superdome, New Orleans:

Thursday’s scores

Select Division IV: No. 2 Southern Lab 42, No. 5 -Riverside 35  

Non-Select Division IV: No. 3 Oak Grove 62, No. 4 Haynesville 36

Friday’s scores 

Non-Select Division II: No. 12 Opelousas 26, 2-Cecilia 13 

Non-Select Division III: 4-Union Parish 36, 3-St. James 35 

Select Division I: 3-Catholic-BR 55, 8-Acadiana 31 

Saturday’s scores

Select Division II: 1-St. Thomas More 35, 3-Lafayette Christian 21 

Select Division III: 2-Calvary 34, 1-St. Charles 28

Non-Select Division I: 1-Ruston 31, 6-Zachary 17

Caddo Sheriff’s detectives recently made an arrest following an investigation into a concerning incident involving underage drinking. Dawn Elizabeth Cooper, a 45-year-old resident of Greenwood, was taken into custody on December 6th after warrants were issued in connection to her involvement in a high school after-party.

Detective BreAnna Gerbine, spearheading the inquiry, responded to a complaint regarding a gathering in the 7400 block of Golden Meadows in Greenwood on November 5th. The investigation unveiled Cooper’s presence at the location and her alleged provision of alcohol to juveniles present at the event.

Cooper faces serious charges, having been booked into Caddo Correctional Center on nine counts of Contributing to the Delinquency of Juveniles. Sheriff Steve Prator highlighted the severity of the situation, emphasizing the legal repercussions of such actions.

The arrest marks a critical step in ensuring the safety and well-being of minors within the community, underscoring law enforcement’s commitment to curbing incidents of underage alcohol consumption. The case remains under investigation, with authorities continuing efforts to address and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Caddo Sheriff’s detectives have apprehended a Shreveport resident, Douglas Scales, 65, for alleged distribution and possession of child pornography. Sheriff Steve Prator confirmed the arrest following a search warrant executed on December 7 at a residence situated in the 2200 block of Creswell Avenue.

The arrest came to light when Detective Thomas Lites, during the investigation, uncovered evidence indicating Scales’ involvement in the possession of child pornography materials.

Scales has been booked into the Caddo Correctional Center on 42 counts related to pornography involving juveniles. As the investigation progresses, Sheriff Prator emphasized that the inquiry remains ongoing.

This arrest underscores law enforcement’s commitment to addressing and confronting instances of child exploitation, highlighting the diligent efforts undertaken to ensure the safety and protection of minors. The Sheriff’s Office continues its vigilant efforts in this ongoing investigation.

Shreveport law enforcement swiftly reacted to an incident at the 1500 block of Parker Street on Thursday, approximately at 4:13 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered an individual grappling with severe injuries.

The victim was swiftly taken to a nearby hospital for immediate medical attention.

Reports from the police suggest that a person of interest has been recognized in connection with the incident.

The investigation remains active and ongoing at this time.

The I-20 major rehabilitation project in Bossier City has transitioned into phase 2 of construction, starting on the night of Wednesday, November 29, 2023, for the westbound direction.

Traffic has shifted from the inside (left) lane, where it was flowing, to the outside (right) lane. The contractor has completed the installation of temporary diversion pavement to handle vehicles in this new lane configuration.

Motorists will now observe that concrete barricades have replaced the previous orange cones and barrels. These barricades will separate travel lanes from the reconstruction area.

This transition signifies a significant milestone in the project, as it initiates the demolition work to remove the existing pavement and roadway base for future replacement.

Anticipated to last approximately 10-11 months once both directions of the interstate are fully shifted into phase 2, the progress of this work will be subject to weather conditions and other factors.

It’s crucial for drivers to eliminate distractions while behind the wheel, drive cautiously through the construction zone, and remain vigilant of crews and equipment on site. I-220 remains the primary detour to avoid congestion related to the construction project, and all trucks (commercial vehicles) are strongly advised to use this detour route.

The Bossier Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its annual gala on Thursday, February 1, 2024, from 5:30-8 p.m. Known as Northwest Louisiana’s largest networking event, this gathering marks a celebration of the region’s achievements in 2023 and looks ahead to upcoming opportunities.

The gala will witness the installation of new Chamber officers and recognition of outstanding contributions by local businesses. The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of prestigious awards like Business of the Year and Business Person of the Year to exceptional chamber members.

This event is more than just a social affair; it underscores the commitment to progress and collaboration within Northwest Louisiana’s business community. As leaders, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders convene, the gala represents a unified effort towards fostering growth and innovation in the region.

Stay updated on the Bossier Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 annual gala for highlights and insights into this significant celebration of regional success. (Note: Event details are subject to change; refer to official Chamber communications for updates.)

Goodwill Industries is taking a proactive step in shedding light on the hurdles faced by formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrating into society. This insightful event from 9-11 a.m. today aims to break barriers and build understanding.

In an effort to address the challenges faced by those returning from incarceration, Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana is organizing the inaugural Reentry Simulation Event today at the First Methodist Church in Shreveport. This collaborative effort with the Louisiana Department of Corrections and the Northwest Louisiana Reentry Coalition seeks to amplify awareness about the struggles and complexities of reentering society after prison.

The event’s centerpiece is a two-hour interactive simulation designed to immerse participants in the real-life challenges faced by individuals returning home from prison. Through various tasks and time constraints, attendees will experience firsthand the obstacles involving employment, housing, healthcare, and societal reintegration.

This initiative underscores Goodwill Industries’ commitment to advocating for successful reentry into society. David Tinkis, Goodwill’s President and CEO, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in supporting returning citizens on their journey back to normalcy.

The event presents a valuable opportunity for community stakeholders to gain empathy, deepen their understanding of the criminal justice system, and reframe perceptions about individuals seeking to reintegrate into society post-incarceration. For more details about the event or Goodwill’s reentry programs, reach out to Kayla Cayer, Northwest Louisiana Reentry Community Coordinator, at 318-629-5916 or kaylac@goodwillnla.org.

About Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana: Established in 1926, Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education, training, and career services to individuals facing barriers or disabilities. With a mission to empower individuals through work, Goodwill has positively impacted 50,000 lives since 2005. Through their retail locations, employment opportunities, and various support services, Goodwill continues to transform lives and communities.

For more information on Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana programs or services, visit www.goodwillnla.org.

By Matt Bankston, CFP®

In the world of financial planning, a robust foundation extends beyond a mere emergency fund. Last week, we delved into the pivotal role of this fund. This week, let’s delve deeper into fortifying your financial structure through strategic insurance usage, specifically focusing on disability and life insurance.

Understanding Risk Management

Safeguarding your financial future heavily relies on managing risks. Our income stands as a critical asset, making it vital to shield against unforeseen circumstances. Disability and life insurance act as essential shields, mitigating risks and ensuring financial stability in the face of unexpected events.

The Case for Term Insurance

Term insurance emerges as a cost-effective solution, especially for younger individuals. The premise is simple yet impactful: securing protection at a manageable cost during prime years. But how much insurance is sufficient? Here, some rules of thumb come into play.

Calculating Your Insurance Needs

Determining the right life insurance amount can be approached through various methodologies tailored to different financial scenarios. Here are some established methods:

• Income Multiplier Method: A widely adopted approach suggests aiming for at least 10 times your annual salary in life insurance coverage. For example, a yearly income of $50,000 would warrant coverage of $500,000, with an additional $100,000 advised for each child above the 10x threshold.

• Years-Until-Retirement Strategy: Multiply your annual salary by the number of years until retirement. For instance, a 40-year-old earning $20,000 annually might need $500,000 in coverage (25 years × $20,000) to safeguard their family’s future.

• Standard-of-Living Assessment: Calculate the sum required to maintain your family’s standard of living post your passing by multiplying the needed annual amount by 20, allowing survivors to withdraw approximately 5% annually from the death benefit while sustaining financial stability through investment returns.

• DIME Method: Designed to cover essential expenses, this approach accounts for debts, mortgage, education, and income replacement until children reach adulthood.

Each method offers a unique perspective on assessing life insurance needs. Tailoring calculations to your circumstances, financial goals, and family dynamics can pinpoint the best approach. Consulting with a qualified financial advisor can further refine these calculations for tailored coverage.

The Power of Layered Protection

An innovative approach gaining traction is layered term insurance. Imagine building a pyramid of protection, starting with shorter-term policies and extending coverage gradually as financial stability grows. This adaptable strategy optimizes your insurance portfolio to align with evolving needs and growing financial security.

Integrating insurance into your financial blueprint fortifies the foundation laid by emergency funds. While an emergency fund cushions immediate blows, insurance safeguards against substantial financial upheavals.

Securing your financial future involves a multifaceted approach. Embrace risk management principles through disability and life insurance to fortify your ability to navigate unforeseen challenges. Shielding our income, a cornerstone of financial stability, demands proactive planning and layered protection strategies.

WK Bossier Health Center commemorated a significant achievement on Monday: the completion of the 50th case utilizing Focal One™ technology in treating prostate cancer. This noninvasive procedure, tailored for individuals with localized prostate cancer, debuted last December at WK Bossier. Dr. Gerard Henry initiated the first case last year, and on Monday, marked the 50th procedure, alongside urologists Dr. W. Stewart Bundrick Jr. and Dr. Christopher Wilson, who also offer the Focal One™ procedure.

Focal One™ merges real-time ultrasound image guidance with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 3D biopsy data. Through a probe, the physician navigates to the tumor in real time, directing high-speed ultrasound energy specifically at the targeted area and ablating solely the affected portion of the prostate without incisions.

Dr. Henry remarked, “For low volume, low grade prostate cancer, Focal One™ stands as a very secure treatment option.”

This procedure resonates with patients as it minimizes the impact of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction often associated with radical prostatectomy and traditional radiation.

Focal One™ represents one among several advanced services offered to prostate cancer patients at various stages of their illness. Alongside Proton therapy, Pluvicto is part of the array of cutting-edge cancer treatments at Willis-Knighton—the sole healthcare facility in Louisiana providing proton therapy.

Shreveport-Bossier eagerly anticipates its representation in the upcoming 2024 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California. James Burton, renowned for his iconic guitar talent and a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, will be the city’s distinguished ambassador on Louisiana’s float during this celebratory event on January 1, 2024.

Stacy Brown, president and CEO of Visit Shreveport-Bossier, expressed enthusiasm for the city’s return to the Rose Parade. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the unique essence of our cities once more,” Brown stated. Highlighting the parade’s musical theme, Brown emphasized Burton’s fitting role as Shreveport-Bossier’s representative.

Burton’s roots trace back to Shreveport, where he discovered a ’53 Fender Telecaster at the age of 14, igniting an extraordinary musical journey. From composing the famous track “Suzie Q” to becoming a staple musician on the Louisiana Hayride radio show, Burton’s career milestones include collaborations with iconic artists and his tenure as Elvis Presley’s band leader until 1977.

With a knack for humor and unparalleled talent, Burton has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His influence spans generations of guitarists, earning him accolades and inductions into various prestigious halls of fame.

Recognized for his signature fiery red paisley flames on his Fender Telecaster, Burton and Fender are set to release a new Telecaster featuring blue paisley flames, with a forthcoming signature guitar. Beyond his musical achievements, Burton’s foundation, established in 2005, supports music education and donates instruments to various groups in need.

Accompanying Burton in the parade will be his two grown grandchildren, Skylar Blythe and Taylor Burton, both seasoned performers who have graced stages worldwide alongside their grandfather. His wife of 65 years, Louise, will also be present in the stands to support this momentous occasion.

The 2024 Rose Parade®, part of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses®, will take place on Monday, Jan. 1. The parade, featuring numerous entries, will be broadcast live at 10:00 am CT on ABC (KTBS-TV) and NBC (KTAL-TV), traversing a 5.5-mile route through Pasadena.

By TONY TAGLAVORE, Journal Services

Bossier Parish Police Jury members decided Wednesday that the best solution to regulating an issue in the parish might best be achieved by issuing no new regulations.

During a Policy and Procedure Committee meeting prior to its regular session, police jury members agreed that an ordinance governing fireworks in the parish is currently unnecessary. In fact, one juror indicated such an ordinance might create more problems than it solves.

When first considering an ordinance, parish officials had suggested using Bossier City’s regulations as a model. That didn’t meet approval from some members.

“I’ve read the Bossier City ordinance and I believe we’d have a hard time enforcing it,” juror Julianna Parks said. Parks is an attorney. “It’s not clear on permits and some of the language is confusing.”

After discussion, which included comments from the owner of a fireworks sales outlet in the parish, Parish Attorney Patrick Jackson suggested moving ahead without drafting an ordinance.

“We wanted input from industry and anyone concerned about the issue,” Jackson said. “State law doesn’t say anything about time or days, or hours of operation for selling or shooting fireworks. We had three complaints last year, so I think it would be better to just move on.”

President Doug Rimmer said the jury will continue to listen to constituents and businesses and, if necessary, will reconsider the subject later.

Jury members also heard a report from Stacy Brown on activities and plans at the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau. A major part of the success story of tourism, she said, is the $819 million in visitor-generated income in Shreveport-Bossier City and the two parishes.

“Outdoor recreation and sports will remain strategic goals to get people out in the communities,” Brown said. “And part of our focus is to use the Red River as a connector and not a divider for us.”

Brown reported 13 events in the bi-parish area generated more than one million dollars each in economic impact, and noted the Bureau saw a $17 return for every one dollars spent in marketing Shreveport-Bossier City and the two parishes.

Also during Wednesday’s meeting, jury members:

• Awarded a pair of equipment bids to Louisiana CAT: $282,849 for a new motor grader and $524,059 for a new, large asphalt paver.

• Scheduled a series of public hearings on plat approvals, and one to consider adoption of the 2023 amended budget.

• Approved committee recommendations on 2024 holiday schedule; penalties and fines for Consolidated Waterworks/Sewerage Dist. No. 1 board of appeals; new salary structures for parish employees.

• Reappointed members of a pair of parish fire district board of commissioners.

• Approved applications for renewal of liquor licenses for 2024; granted approval of a request to allow selling beer at Boomer’s Lounge on a special Super Bowl Sunday event.

• Announced a public meeting for Wednesday, Jan. 10 to consider adopting a resolution calling a special election to authorize renewal of an ad valorem tax in Bossier Parish.

Sam and Change

Once, I had to facilitate a change in my life. I love the outdoors, and more specifically I greatly enjoy hunting waterfowl. I developed this hobby in 2015. I also love dogs, and during my first duck season I decided it was time for a new Labrador retriever. Before I knew it, I had adopted Sam (an eighteen-month-old-black lab) into my family. With a lot of work and training, we were hunting together by the end of that first season.

Towards the end of our second season together, it became clear that Sam was developing some bad habits in the duck blind. Specifically, he whined – a lot! Maybe he didn’t like the cold. Maybe he was still suffering from the way his previous owners had neglected him (although, an animal psychologist I am not). Maybe he was simply high strung. During the off season I read everything I could get my hands on about curbing a hunting dog’s tendencies to whine, I worked with him daily. I even had him fixed, but nothing helped.

Quickly in our third season together I noticed that a change needed to be made. Ducks would fly in on us, Sam would see them before I would, he would get monstrously (weighing in at 105 pounds) restless, the whining would begin, and then his whines would turn to howls. I love to duck hunt. Sam loves to retrieve. I don’t think he quite made the connection that if he howled at the ducks, then they would spook, fly away, which would prohibit me from taking them, which would prohibit him from retrieving them.

Long story short – Sam is no longer welcome in my duck blind. He is, however, still a vital part of the team. He helps me put out the decoys (he’s a very smart dog). We play a little bit in the dark, muddy water before sunrise. And then he goes back into his crate (which is in the bed of my truck), lays down on his warm, soft bed, and goes back to sleep (until it’s time to retrieve the ducks off the water, or find birds that have lost their way). That’s what I call win-win. Sam gets to retrieve, and I get ducks.

But this change was not an easy one to make. I had to recognize the problem, I had to take it seriously, and then I had to do something about it. I worked with Sam on this specific issue for over nine months. When those efforts were not fruitful, I moved on to Plan B, and it has worked marvelously. But I miss Sam in my duck blind, and his annoying, noisy, obnoxious, impish, pesky, wet, wonderful, best-dog-in-the-world self. That being said, we are a stronger waterfowl-harvesting team now than we have ever been.

So, what about you? For the remainder of this article, I have recruited a top-notch team of professionals to help us transform into new people by changing the way we think (as Paul puts it in Romans 12:2). They each have a word of wisdom to share with us on this journey of change and growth.

• “I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination” (Jimmy Dean) – There are many circumstances that are beyond our control, but that doesn’t mean we give up or do nothing. We grit our teeth, roll up our sleeves, and get to work.
• “If there is no struggle, there is no progress” (Frederick Douglass) – Anything worth doing is going to entail challenges, difficulties, struggles, and conflict. We are not looking for ease, we are looking for growth.
• “Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me” (Carol Burnett) – Personal growth is just that… personal! We have to own our shortcomings, and be willing to invest in ourselves if we want to experience growth.
• “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world” (Harriet Tubman) – There is more potential inside of you than you could ever imagine. I know this because God is the very one who has placed the potential there. I pray you live into your God-given potential!
• “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude” (Maya Angelou) – Perhaps the greatest change we need to make is internal, our attitude and our thinking (since this is what drives our behavior).
• “Change your thoughts and you change the world” (Norman Vincent Peale) – When our thinking/attitudes change, our behaviors change, our hearts change, then the world changes for the better. The internal and personal growth we experience floods our networks and neighborhoods, revealing the truth that the fruit of our labors are not limited only to ourselves.
• “You must be the change you wish to see in the world” (Mahatma Gandhi) – We can no longer say, “Somebody do something about that.” You want to live in a better world? Then the question is, “What are you doing about it?”

One last thing before we get started. Personal change is quite impossible without external help. As a Christian and a pastor, I know that this sort of growth will not happen without the presence of God and the participation of others. But with God’s help, and the support of good people, all things are possible. 

Join us every Thursday as we explore practices that connect us with our Creator God. God’s greatest desire is to BE with us. Spiritual practices keep us in the flow of the Holy Spirit and God’s presence. We are thrilled you are here and @Practice with us. This simple moment can be a retreat from daily life and a space for you to BE with God in your every day activities.

Meredith and Steven Bell share many things in common and share many differences. They met 24 years ago in Dallas, Texas while studying theology. With each having a science degree already, they both decided a theology degree was the next right step. For the past 24 years, they have served communities in ministry together in a number of different ways. The relationships they have built along the way with friends, colleagues and churches is a blessing to their lives. The biggest blessing is being parents to two amazing young women. From diapers to driver’s licenses, they have parented, laughed, sacrificed, loved, prayed, cried, and grown together. Their differences simply make life interesting. Growing up in different states, listening to different music, enjoying different hobbies and just seeing the world around them differently keeps conversations lively! You can find Steven at First Methodist Church of Shreveport most days unless he is looking for waterfowl with his dog, Sam. You can find Meredith writing grants for non-profits and coaching people in ministry. More than anything, you can find the Bells living grateful lives. We are grateful to live in Shreveport and even more grateful to join with others to spread hope, love, and faith in the community!

The Parish Commission, under President Roy Burrell’s leadership, has revealed the comprehensive roadmap guiding the Parish’s direction for 2024. This budget, meticulously designed to align resources, strategies, and goals, signifies the Commission’s commitment to prudent financial management.

Crucially, the 2024 budget achieves balance, ensuring that “the budget reflects the resources, strategies, and goals of the Parish in the delivery of public services to our citizens,” as stated by Burrell. Despite this stability, the Parish remains vigilant of potential shifts in both local and national landscapes.

Key areas of focus within the 2024 budget have been identified:

Addressing Critical Challenges:

• Juvenile Justice Budget Deficits: Persistent deficits in this sector remain a priority for resolution.
• Operational Expenses at Caddo Correctional Center (CCC): Alleviating increased operational costs is a crucial facet of the financial agenda.
• Local Economic Development: Investment in initiatives to bolster local economic growth.

To enhance operational efficiency and bolster services for citizens, a reorganization plan has been approved. This involves transforming the Information Systems Division and Communications Division into distinct, independent departments. Tracy Calloway and Krystle Beauchamp will lead these departments as Information Systems Director and Communications Director, respectively.

Prioritizing Infrastructural Development

The 2024 budget underscores numerous capital outlay projects aimed at enhancing the Parish’s infrastructure. These projects include road and bridge improvements, Parish facility enhancements, and upgrades to parks, notably the eagerly awaited Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park, scheduled for completion in 2025.

“We are confident that the 2024 budget is one that preserves funding for the essential services upon which our citizens rely,” affirmed Erica R. Bryant, Parish Administrator and CEO. Bryant reiterated the commitment to sound fiscal management across all departments, ensuring adaptability to evolving service demands while optimizing existing resources.

The 2024 budget, a testament to prudent planning and strategic allocation, stands poised to fortify the foundation of essential services while embracing dynamic shifts, thereby steering the Parish towards a future of enhanced functionality and serviceability.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has initiated preliminary site work for the ambitious $361 million project aimed at constructing a new LA 511 (Jimmie Davis Bridge) across the Red River, connecting Bossier and Caddo Parishes.

Despite crucial elements like the new bridge and roadway approaches remaining in the design phase, observable initial actions are underway in close proximity to the existing bridge.

Presently, clearing and grubbing operations are in progress, entailing the removal of various types of vegetation situated in the right-of-way.

Moreover, on-site activities include the assembly of a crane and the arrival of steel, slated for the construction of a trestle bridge facilitating work crews during the erection of the new bridge spans.

Significantly, major construction for the new four-lane bridge, planned just north of the current structure, is still roughly a year away while design work persists.

Part of the design phase encompasses repurposing the existing bridge into a linear park, linking the pre-existing bicycle and pedestrian trails on both sides of the Red River.

Expected to be executed via a design-build approach, the Jimmie Davis Bridge project is projected to span approximately five years for full completion.

Shreveport gears up for a soulful celebration at the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium this evening, at 7:30 PM. The event, featuring renowned artists Tauren Wells, Katy Nichole, and Jordan Smith, promises an enchanting evening of live music and worship.

Witness the magic of the Christmas season through captivating performances by these celebrated artists. Tickets, starting at $25, offer a chance to immerse yourself in the joyful melodies and inspiring voices of these award-winning musicians.

Shreveport is gearing up for a heartwarming celebration this December with the Best Christmas Ever Short Essay Contest, hosted by Love Shreveport. Open to Elementary, Middle School, and High School students, this contest invites young writers to share their most cherished Christmas memories.

From December 8-20, letters will be accepted at two locations: the Bilberry Community Center on 1902 Alabama Ave. and the Government Plaza on 505 Travis St. Participants are encouraged to pen down their best Christmas experiences, aiming for the chance to win exciting prizes available for 1st place winners in each division.

In these letters, students should include their first and last name, age, grade, full address, and contact number. It’s an opportunity for budding writers to express their holiday joy while fostering a sense of community spirit.

The Best Christmas Ever Short Essay Contest promises to spread cheer and create lasting memories, uniting Shreveport’s young talents in a celebration of shared experiences. Join in, share your story, and illuminate this holiday season with the magic of your words!