August Archives - SB Magazine

AND ANOTHER THING: THEY LEARNED IT TO US

SB Magazine — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 21:47:19 +0000

How much would we have to pay you annually to teach first grade?

I asked 10 people, and the average was, give or take, $7 million.

Here is a short list of Really Hard Jobs off the top of my head and without giving it much thought:

•Snake charmer guy
•Explosive ordnance disposal guy
•Cleaning up Bourbon Street after any holiday guy
•Stone carrier guy, pyramid construction, circa 2610 BC
•Great Raft Removal guy (and thank you, Captain Henry Miller Shreve and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)
•Chiseler for any of the presidents on Mt. Rushmore guy
•Magazine publication guy*

Hot water, every single one. But mere child’s play compared to the lonely plight of the first-grade teacher. The teachers whose attendance rolls we are not worthy of touching have just begun a year’s worth of doing daily what all the jobs above require— combined.

Each working day of the first-grade teacher’s life is filled with challenges, all of them weighing between 35 and 50 pounds, most of them with attention spans to match their bladder sizes, each with a mind of her or his own, none of them able to read. It’s not a job for the faint of heart. This is Big-Person Work.

It has been my privilege to watch some of the finest in the fieldwork, and it’s like watching the talent that gets standing ovations in cathedrals, ballparks, and music halls the world over. How do they do it? The answer remains a mystery to the ordinary layman like me, sitting here with humble hat in humble hand.

Mine is Bobbie Cook, “Mrs. Bobbie,” 96 and retired for 35 years back home in South Carolina, retired for the same number of years she taught, 30 of those in first grade. She had to take three years

off in her 50s to take cancer out behind the barn, then came back and duked it out with us short people for another half-dozen years. Tough as a 10-cent steak.

Not gonna lie, I was the loser who cried the first day of school. Wanted to ride my bike and spend the day with my collie dog, Sport, and my mother, same as always. Total no-hoper.

Except … Mrs. Bobbie. She tucked her cape into the back of her skirt, handed me a crayon, smiled, and smelled like either roses or really fresh soap. Suddenly, the chalkboard and The Other Kids and the smell of yeast rolls from down the hall weren’t so bad after all. We leaped from a rocky start to smooth sailing.

Mrs. Bobbie was the difference that made the difference for me.

Mrs. Bobbie and her brothers and sisters are Out There, helping tomorrow’s accountants and mayors and construction workers and future teachers, doing more than their fair share. Hopefully, they can trust us to do ours when school’s not in session.

“I’ll tell you what teaching does and has done for me all these years,” Mrs. Bobbie told me during one of our grownup visits years ago. “It makes me believe the Bible where it says we all must become like little children to be accepted into heaven. I’ve seen that in the trust, believing, the blind faith first-graders have in their teachers. They always renewed my faith in mankind with their little trusting.”

If you get a good one, if you luck into a Mrs. Bobbie — well, good teachers renew OUR faith in mankind. The best ones are in the ring to make a difference, planting trees they might never see come up, sowing seeds to benefit every one of us. First things first: we should thank them every chance we get.

Anyway … back to homework. Hand me those safety scissors and that No. 2 jumbo pencil, will you? …

The post AND ANOTHER THING: THEY LEARNED IT TO US appeared first on SB Magazine.

SB NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT: CASA

SB Magazine — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 20:09:49 +0000

Volunteers who serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) dedicate their time and effort to being the voice for children in the foster care system.

Cathy and Ralph Tomlinson are part of Volunteers for Youth Justice’s CASA team. Ralph Tomlinson joined the team in 2017, shortly after retiring from working in the oil and gas industry for 35 years. His wife Cathy followed in 2021, soon after retiring as a registered nurse. She was compelled by Ralph’s stories of having had a positive influence on several children’s lives.

Ralph has advocated on behalf of 15 children in five different court cases, while Cathy has advocated for five children in three. They are both strong advocates who work endlessly to make a difference for each child assigned to them. Theirs is the kind of dedication that has led them to travel without hesitation, even as far as places like Natchitoches and Sulphur, to meet personally with their child, seeking to connect and build trust with them. The couple have been a great asset to the CASA team taking pride in their work, ensuring safety and permanency for a child in foster care.

1.What inspires you about Volunteers for Youth Justice’s mission?

It’s inspiring to see how many children’s lives VYJ has been able to impact. The obvious part is that we see change and make a difference in each individual child’s life. But we also help improve the trajectory of not only that child’s life but that of their own children and countless other lives that he or she will have the chance to impact.

We get a chance to speak and help and advocate for children who are abused and neglected, children who are definitely in need. I think we just want to be part of the change to help each child get to live in a better situation. These are children that the Department of Child and Family Services has removed from their home, and judges have to make decisions about a given child’s placement. As advocates, we speak with the child at least monthly and otherwise interact with everyone involved in the child’s life, whether it is foster parents, therapists, doctors, or teachers, in order to help inform judges’ decisions. As CASAs, we have been appointed by the court and have access to gain whatever insight is important in order to make our recommendations according to what we learn.

2. In what ways do you personally gain purpose from the work you do for VYJ?

Cathy: As I have spent time with these children, I’ve felt fulfilled from the chance to be a positive and stable influence. It is rewarding to help these children realize that their feelings are important and that we are there to listen to them and help them to help their voices be heard. Spiritually, it gives us the chance to grow in our prayer life, asking for wisdom as we make our recommendations and asking for positive change for the child and their family.

Ralph: It gives me a sense of self-worth to have a case that clearly has turned out for everyone’s good. The reality is that doesn’t happen every time, and so there also are times of frustration. Yet, even then, I know the situation quite possibly would have had some less fortunate outcome had I not been involved. Until I became involved in this work, I didn’t have a good grasp of just how many children experience circumstances that require removal from their parent’s care and how deeply stressful and painful it can be for them. I see how even when I only can help in the smallest of ways, it often has significant benefits to my child’s quality of life.

3. What are some shorter- and longer-term goals that keep you passionate and motivated to continue working with them?

Volunteers for Youth Justice has initiated and maintains so many different programs that are so important for children who are having to grow up under difficult circumstances, and CASA is just one of those. So, it is easy to be passionate about an organization that is so intensely interested in intervening in whatever ways can possibly help those children enjoy better stability and develop into adults prepared to break any negative cycles for their own families. And specific to our work as CASAs, VYJ is so good about providing educational opportunities and a whole variety of resources. The support we receive from Kelli and the entire staff is exceptional. We feel motivated because of that and also because we see how real the need is for adults just like us to fill the void for these children. So, in the short term, we not only want to continue doing what we can, but we want to help attract even more compassionate, qualified adult volunteers to carve out time to be trained and to help. In the longer term, we know there will continue to be multiple ways, even beyond CASA, that we can benefit children facing difficult conditions, and so we expect to be making a difference for years to come.

The post SB NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT: CASA appeared first on SB Magazine.

18 WELLNESS TIPS

SB Magazine — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 19:17:36 +0000

People often think about wellness in terms of physical health—nutrition, exercise, and weight management. But let’s be honest, it is so much more. Wellness is the ‘complete’ integration of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being—fueling the body, engaging the mind, and nurturing the spirit.

Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and do not constitute a medical service. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.

Sometimes it can feel like maintaining a healthy lifestyle is an overwhelming challenge that doesn’t fit within the realities of daily life. It’s tough to hold down a full-time job, eat well, train for a marathon, make homemade green juice, spend quality time with your family, and meditate for an hour each day.

Of course, healthy living can incorporate all of these things, but it doesn’t have to be defined by grandiose displays of health and fitness. Here are 18 tips to live a healthier, happier lifestyle—all simple, easy things that can be seamlessly incorporated into your daily life:

1.

Self-Care is Essential. Chronic stress is detrimental to both your physical and mental health. Get to know your stress triggers (the things that cause stress for you, either quickly or in the long-term) as well as your stress releases (the things that can help calm you when you’re stressed) so you can proactively cope with stress and maintain healthy levels. To prevent burnout, start making time for self-care. From pedicures, yoga, natural ways to treat shingles and other illnesses, and spa treatments to using the best castor oil packs for bloating and digestion, working out, spending time outdoors and finding a new hobby, anyone can practice self-care in a variety of enjoyable ways.

2.

Cultivate a Positive Mindset. It’s true—mindset is everything! Cultivate a positive mindset by recognizing negative thought patterns and countering them with positive thoughts or affirmations.

3.

Get Plenty of Sleep. While some folks boast about getting by on 4-hours of sleep, the truth is—most of us are sleep-deprived. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. But in addition to quantity, quality of sleep matters too! Focus on getting quality sleep—like keeping your bedroom cool at night and avoiding blue light after dark. Being well-rested is one of the biggest components of being a happy person!

4.

Take the Stairs. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator is a simple way to get a little more physical activity in your daily life. It also strengthens and tones your legs and core while you’re at it!

5.

Drink More Water. Coffee’s great, too, but the benefits of water are many. Water is absolutely necessary and helps to aid digestion, enhance skin health and boost energy. In general, the average adult needs two-to-three liters a day.

If you have a female catheter, be sure to speak to your doctor about the optimal hydration routine. You want to get all the health benefits, but you also want to avoid overloading yourself at the same time.

6.

Exercise, Exercise, Exercise. And not just a few times a week, but every day. Engaging in regular exercise will also help you feel more energetic, relaxed, and sharp during the day while you are working, which will inevitably influence your overall feelings about work itself. Aim to sweat in some way—whether that is via running, biking, dancing, hot yoga, or any other physical activity you enjoy.

7.

Engage in a Hobby You Truly Love. It’s easy to let work take over your life, but having defined boundaries between your professional and personal life is crucial. One way to keep your work/life balance in check is to find a hobby you’re passionate about and enjoy doing. Being able to “escape” into your hobby for a while will bring you pleasure, keep your thoughts away from any work-related stress, and engage your mind.

8.

Eat Real Food. Aim to eat real food that is made of whole food ingredients you would have in your own kitchen pantry, or that your grandmother would recognize. “Real food” includes unprocessed foods like an apple, a cucumber, soybeans or a steak, as well as foods loosely processed from one (or few) real-food ingredients, like butter, olive oil, yogurt, tofu, etc. In other words, aim for foods that could be reasonably made in your own kitchen and avoid foods that can only be made in a lab.

9.

Drink a Green Smoothie Daily. Green smoothies are the perfect way to get your greens in each day. Similar to the traditional fruit smoothie, but contain more green veggies and can include spinach, lettuce, kale, collard greens, parsley, dandelion greens, or watercress—pretty much any leafy green veggie your palate desires. Bananas, apples, pears, avocado, and mango are great companions and work well to enhance the overall flavor and texture.

10.

Get Plenty of Sunshine. Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients for overall health, and sunlight is one of our best sources of it. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of sunlight each day—preferably in the afternoon and without sunscreen.

11.

Avoid Negative People in Your Life. A positive mentality is key to a healthy life. You don’t need negativity in your life. If you feel that a person or friend is negative, just let him or her go.

12.

Make Friends. Making a lasting friendship is not just a smart networking approach or strategy for status—friendship is intimately connected to both your physical and mental well-being. Friends keep you grounded, help put things in perspective, and help manage the problems that life throws your way.

13.

Meditate Daily. One of the easiest ways to live a healthier lifestyle is by meditating. Whether you spend time journaling, focusing on your present surroundings, or being mindful as you do deep breathing, meditating every day can help you de-stress and feel happier. Meditation is intended to purify your mind of thoughts that trigger your stress response—the reaction that keeps you in emotional and physical bondage.

14.

Develop Better Eating Habits. A simple hack for healthy eating (and portion control) is to make half your plate veggies at each meal. The veggies pack in essential vitamins, minerals and other phytonutrients important for health and longevity. And, because they’re rich in fiber, they help to aid digestion and keep you feeling full longer.

15.

Practice Gratitude. Practice gratitude each day—this could be when you wake up, before bed, or during your lunch break at work. Here are our favorite tips for finding more gratitude in your daily life, plus a rundown of the physical and mental health benefits of practicing gratitude regularly.

16.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help. Do not feel like you have to take on the world all by yourself. Humanity is a team sport and no one will ever think any less of you if you ask for help. Not asking for help when you need it the most is preventing you from achieving the best possible outcome.

17.

Smile. It is true—smiling boosts your physical and mental health. So, find ways to smile as often as you can throughout the day. And if you’re not all that happy with your smile, or if it’s just been a while since you last got checked out, it’s a wise idea to make an appointment with a holistic dentist.

18.

Work Hard + Be Kind. Enough said!

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ART & CULTURE: A Passion for Acting, Theatre, and Teaching

SB Magazine — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 18:05:15 +0000

Acting and the theater have long captivated audiences and artists alike, offering a unique avenue for self-expression, creativity, and emotional connection. The world of acting is not just about playing a role on stage; it involves a deep exploration of human emotions and experiences. It’s not a place for people unwilling to put in a great deal of work, nor a place for prima donnas prone to temper tantrums. The theatre, with its immersive and collaborative nature, requires people working together to create a magical space where stories come to life. It’s challenging and also one of the best excuses to never stop learning and growing.

It was one (or perhaps all) of these attributes that compelled high school senior Logan Sledge to make the long walk from Byrd High School in Shreveport to the Centenary College Campus to talk to Dr. Robert Buseick, the head of the theatre program. That walk would take him on a journey that would deepen his love of this art form, where he would ultimately find a new love for sharing his talents with others through teaching.

Logan’s interest in theatre didn’t just come out of the blue. He credits his early performance experiences to Randy Edwards at First Baptist Church. Edwards produced choir shows that incorporated sermon-style performance pieces. “That’s really where I got some very early and valuable acting experience, being up there myself in front of everyone. We traveled the country with that choir,” Logan says. He recalled one tour stop at a prison. When he took the stage for his “sermon,” he got a reaction from his audience. It turned into more of a call-and-response moment. A give-and-take that happens with a live audience. “It’s that moment where you meet them, and they meet you, and there’s that exchange that happens, I got to experience in that setting – different setting, obviously. I’m doing something that’s working. I’m doing something that has some meaning to it. These people are with me. It’s touching them. Here. (pointing to chest) It’s touching them. It’s having an impact. I think that’s what they talk about when they say that bug that you get. You know? It’s just that energy from an audience.”

He played numerous roles in Marjorie Lyon’s Playhouse’s opening show, Bent, also set in a prison. His most memorable show? There were several. “Lost In Yonkers. That was kind of a breakthrough performance in my mind just because it was more of a character role. Lonely Planet stands out. That was just me and Patric McWilliams. It was a 2 person show. Even at that stage, I was still getting this complete master class in acting from my acting partner. It was the show that really taught me what Patric and Buseick, and others had told me all along. If you are just present and listening, your attention is on your acting partner; they’re going to give you your performance.”

Fast forward to graduation and a big move to the West Coast to naturally pursue a film acting career. “Being all of 23 years old, I just thought that was the direction I wanted to go. I love theater and had so much fun doing it, but I really wanted to get into film and television and film in particular,” says Logan.

He enrolled in grad school at Cal State University, Fullerton, and started teaching as an adjunct there to earn income while auditioning for films. For the fall semester, he had 365 students in one class. That’s extreme, coming from a small campus like Centenary to such a large population of Fine Arts students.

Returning to Shreveport was just the beginning of his journey back to Centenary, where he is now the Chair of the Theatre Department. He was instrumental in developing the Centenary Theatre Program’s (CTP) curriculum, designed for four years of progressive learning. Graduates of the program are “prepared for a successful transition to graduate school or professional work.”

Logan and colleagues John Gayle, Don Hooper, and Alan Berry used their downtime during the COVID-19 pandemic to develop a strategic plan for the future of CTP. They modeled it after the college’s strategic plan of growing enrollment, recruiting, and retaining students. The result? The incoming class this past fall was the largest they’ve seen in quite a while. This fall’s class is shaping up nicely, with thirteen students already committed. Once enrollment increases, the department can “put in for another tenure track.” The short-term goal is to work with the music department to develop a musical theatre minor and to bring dance back. The long-term goal is to build a new performing arts building in the field adjacent to Marjorie Lyons Playhouse.

All it takes is money, right? This is just a suggestion, but if a person wants to help fund the performing arts program at Centenary, they can earmark their donation to ensure it goes towards the goal of Logan’s dream theatre. “I’d like to see us actually get to the point where we had probably somewhere in that 60 major range.

Four full-time faculty members, a musical theater program reinstated, dance back with us the way it’s supposed to be. A collaboration with a professional theater company that shares our stage with us,” he says.

Would Logan rather be performing in New York as a professional actor? (Because he absolutely could – he’s that talented.) “…along the way, I discovered that I really do like teaching. There’s nothing like it. You get to watch these young, emerging theater artists do what they love to do. If you’re open to it, the joy that it actually gives you is immeasurable. We meet them where they are, and they just make these leaps, and it’s like, wow!”

It’s true what they say. The rewards of teaching theatre go beyond the classroom when you can stand back and watch a student blossom and grow. When you give them the opportunity to become a successful adult on whatever path they choose to take, actor or not, you have done your job well.

As audiences continue to be captivated by the art of acting and the allure of the theatre, the world of performance will continue to thrive and inspire generations to come. It’s comforting to know that we have professionals like Logan Sledge in our community. He is committed to nurturing and teaching up-and-comers so that live theatre remains a thriving source of entertainment that continues to enrich our lives in countless ways.

The post ART & CULTURE: A Passion for Acting, Theatre, and Teaching appeared first on SB Magazine.

INSIDER TIPS: HOMEBUYERS AND SELLERS

SB Magazine — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:13:31 +0000

In the world of real estate, the process of buying or selling a home can be both thrilling and daunting. For many, it represents one of the most significant financial transactions of their lives. Real estate agents, with their wealth of knowledge and experience, play a crucial role in guiding buyers and sellers through this intricate process.
By understanding the factors that influence the real estate market, navigating the homebuying and selling processes, mastering negotiation tactics, and comprehending the importance of home inspections and appraisals, you can make informed decisions that will lead to successful transactions.

Various factors influence the real estate market, including economic conditions, interest rates, and local market trends. Economic conditions, such as employment rates and income levels, can impact housing demand and prices. Joel Hall of RE/MAX United says, “We’re off to a good start to the year so far. Interest rates have settled.” You might think that the housing market, along with a number of other markets, might seem to slow down during an election year. Hall adds, “There are no wild swings in interest rates just because an office may change hands.” That being said, fluctuations in interest rates can affect mortgage affordability, thereby influencing homebuyers’ buying power.
Understanding these market dynamics can help buyers and sellers make informed decisions about timing their transactions and pricing their properties competitively. For the buyer, Hall recommends that you begin by securing a lender and get pre-qualified. By assessing your financial readiness, setting a budget, and obtaining mortgage pre-approval, you streamline the buying process by providing a clear budget to work with. Selling a home requires careful preparation. “You only have one shot at a first impression,” Hall says. “Look at your home through the buyer’s eyes. Fix things that need to be fixed.
Have your HVAC units, roof, and water heater inspected. Keep receipts to show a clean bill of health.”

Zondra Spikes of Keller Williams agrees, adding,
“Decluttering and staging the property is essential.
Unpersonalizing your home (storing family photos and other items of a personal nature) allows buyers to envision their belongings in the home. If the property is occupied, I will often use what’s available when I stage it. If it’s vacant, I’ll often hire a staging company and add home décor to make the home more appealing to the potential buyer.
This gives the house a little
‘pop’ and brings out the features better.”
Setting the right price is crucial, as pricing too high can deter buyers, while pricing too low may result in lost profits. Real estate agents can provide valuable insights into market trends and comparable sales to help sellers price their homes competitively.
Negotiating offers and navigating contracts are critical aspects of real estate
transactions. Buyers and sellers must understand the intricacies of offer
submissions, counteroffers, and contingencies to protect their interests. Effective negotiation tactics, such as maintaining clear communication and being willing to compromise, can help parties reach mutually beneficial agreements. Real estate agents play a key role in guiding clients through negotiations and ensuring that contract terms are favorable and legally sound.

Home inspections and appraisals are essential in the home-buying process to uncover potential issues and ensure the property’s value. Home inspections identify any hidden problems with the property, such as structural defects or safety hazards, allowing buyers to make informed decisions about proceeding with the purchase. Appraisals assess the property’s value based on various factors, including its condition, location, and comparable sales in the area.
Buyers and sellers can leverage inspection and appraisal reports to negotiate repairs, adjustments to the purchase price, or other contract terms.
When nearing the closing stages of a real estate transaction, buyers and sellers encounter various legal and financial aspects that require careful consideration. Escrow and closing costs are standard components of the closing process, with escrow serving as a neutral third party that holds funds and documents until all contract conditions are met. Understanding the breakdown of fees associated with the transaction, including lender fees, appraisal fees, title insurance, and transfer taxes, is essential for both parties to anticipate their financial obligations accurately. The escrow process involves verifying the terms of the purchase agreement, ensuring all necessary documents are in order, and coordinating the final transfer of funds and ownership.
One of the most common pitfalls in real estate transactions is overpricing or underpricing a property. Overpricing can lead to prolonged market time and decreased interest from potential buyers, while underpricing may result in lost profits for sellers. Conducting a thorough market analysis with the guidance of your real estate agent can help buyers and sellers avoid these pitfalls by accurately pricing the property based on its value and market conditions.

The world of real estate is multifaceted, with numerous considerations and steps involved in the buying and selling process.
A good real estate agent, with their vast knowledge of the current market, is worth their weight in gold – far more than they might make in commissions.
They understand the real estate market, navigate the homebuying and selling processes, master negotiation tactics, and comprehend the importance of home inspections and appraisals. Your agent can address legal and financial aspects so you can make informed decisions that lead to successful transactions.
Ultimately, with the guidance of experienced real estate agents and a thorough understanding of the intricacies of the market, homebuyers and sellers can confidently navigate the real estate landscape and achieve their desired goals.

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PERSON OF INTEREST: BO HARRIS

SB Magazine — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 17:35:35 +0000

BO HARRIS SPORTS LEGEND

Before He Was Bayou Bengal Bo, He Was Gator Bo

Bo Harris is another in a long line of professional athletes from Shreveport-Bossier, including Terry Bradshaw, Joe Ferguson, Todd Walker, Wendell Davis, Robert Parish, Stromile Swift, Alana Beard, Pat Tilley, Jacob Hester, David Toms, David Lee, Stan Humphries and … the list goes on and on and on …

Before Bo Harris was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the third round of the 1975 NFL Draft, he was an LSU Bayou Bengal.

And before that, he was a Captain Shreve High School Gator and teammate of Denny Duron, whose Evangel Christian Academy football program is part of this month’s SB cover story.
“If I ever go to jail in Mexico, I’m calling Denny to get me out,” Harris said. “I know he’ll show up.”

Harris was born in Leesville and moved to Shreveport the summer before his sophomore year of high school. “All of junior high, I played football,” he said. My freshman year at Leesville High School I played baseball before my dad got transferred.

Choosing which Shreveport high school he wanted to play football for was pretty easy for Harris. “I specifically chose Captain Shreve because of Lee Hedges,” Harris said of the late beloved coach who, in 18 seasons at Shreve, won a state football championship and eight district titles.

Harris played tight end and defensive end for Hedges and the Gators before going to Baton Rouge, where he played outside linebacker for the Tigers. Harris joined another LSU standout, safety Tommy Casanova, on the Bengals when they scooped him up 75th overall in the ’75 NFL Draft.

Harris played under Paul Brown during his rookie season; the NFL coaching legend left the sidelines and became the team’s general manager after that season. “It was a truly great experience to play in his organization,” Harris said. “He was a great guy.”

Bill “Tiger” Johnson was Harris’ second head coach in Cincy. In his final three seasons as a Bengal, Harris played for head coach Forrest Gregg, an NFL Hall of Fame tackle who was part of Green Bay’s dynasty in the 1960s. Gregg was also head coach in Shreveport for the Pirates in 1994 and 1995 during the CFL’s brief attempt at expansion into the U.S.

Harris grew close to his coach and remained that way; when Gregg passed away in 2019 at age 85 from complications due to Parkinson’s, Harris was a pallbearer.

Harris played nine seasons in the NFL, eight with Cincinnati and his final season with Buffalo, the rookie season for future NFL Hall of Fame defensive lineman Bruce Smith, an Outland Trophy winner at Virginia Tech who played his final college game in Shreveport, a 23-7 loss to Air Force in the 1984 Independence Bowl.

Throughout his career, Harris would come back home to Shreveport for the offseason and continue workouts with Woodlawn legend Joe Ferguson, who played 17 seasons in the NFL, 11 as quarterback in Buffalo, and Fair Park stud Pat Tilley, a Pro Bowl receiver for St. Louis in 1980 and a Louisiana Tech Athletics Hall of Famer.

“In the summers, we would do our track workouts somewhere like Captain Shreve, Byrd, or Fair Park,” Harris said. “We were usually out there by 9 a.m. We would then hit the field by 3 p.m. I picked up enough skills to pass cover just by playing defensive back for Tilley.”

Harris was excited to show off those DB skills in the ’81 AFC Divisional Playoff Game between Bo’s Bengals and Ferguson’s Bills.

Shreve vs. Woodlawn. Strap in! “I had a knack for covering,” Harris says. Props to Pat Tilley.

“We had played them (the Bills) a couple of weeks before, and they had thrown a fourth wide receiver out there, Lou Piccone,” Harris said. “So, I knew they were going to do that. I had the fourth receiver. “We were in a Cover 2. I had a tight end over me. I rode the tight end hard because he could boogie. What I wasn’t prepared for was for their running back, (Roland)
Hooks, to hit that seam.”

Ferguson was looking to hit Hooks down the middle. Joe forgot Bo had a knack for covering. “I had my back turned when I jumped in the air, and I caught the ball,” Bo said. “With one hand.” One of the Captain Shreve star’s seven interceptions in his NFL career. And probably the most memorable.

Another memorable – though not nearly as warm – moment for Bo was when he played in the coldest game in NFL history back in 1982. Harris and the Bengals beat San Diego, 27-7, and won that AFC Championship game in Cincinnati’s Riverfront Stadium – but at what cost? It was the minus 59 degrees wind chill that made it the NFL’s coldest game ever and earned it the nickname “The Freezer Bowl.” “There wasn’t spandex back then,” Harris said. “We would melt Vaseline, rub that on, then put on pantyhose. “Worked pretty well.”

It got him to Super Bowl XVI. Gregg, Harris and the Bengals lost to San Francisco, 26-21, but the game was played indoors. Thank goodness. Outside Michigan’s Pontiac Silverdome that day was snow and ice that caused traffic delays and other logistical issues. But inside? No Vaseline. No hose. Harris is a lot warmer now, spending his time back home in Northwest Louisiana.

He’s an avid turkey and duck hunter and still likes to follow football on TV. “I’m going to watch Cincinnati every week,” he said. “I really get interested the second half of the season.

“I watched Denny’s (Evangel) playoff game last year on the sidelines. I go to LSU games. I like to watch matchups. I really used to like watching the (New England) Patriots defense and how they made all that work.”

Bo follows LSU baseball, too. He’ll keep up with Duron and the Eagles this fall and the Olympics from Paris this summer. Game recognizes game. And if the Olympics ever start a one-handed interception tournament? Then watch for a former NFL linebacker to come out of retirement. Something tells me Bo’s still got it.

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GOD. FAMILY. FOOTBALL.

SB Magazine — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 16:33:22 +0000

This is a story in three acts. Act one is about a man, his love for God, his love for his family, and his love of football. Act two is about a man who became friends with the first man and thought his story should be told. There’s more about him to come. Act three of this story is about hundreds of people, primarily young men who have been mentored and led by the first man, share his ideals and values, and love football. Here’s the beginning.

ACT I:

Denny Duron was a member of the first graduating class to attend all three years at Captain Shreve High School in 1970. He was a member of the Gator football team. During this time, Denny felt a calling to preach the gospel and had plans to attend seminary. But Louisiana Tech University came calling with a scholarship offer, which he promptly declined. They urged him to go and see Terry Bradshaw play his last college game, and as he sat watching, God spoke to him. Tech is where the Lord needed him to be. Now, this was back in the days before Tim Tebow. Players usually didn’t show their religious beliefs. There were a few exceptions, but for the most part, you kept it hidden. Denny asked himself, “Play football for the glory of God-what does that mean? What is the end game here?” Well, let’s see.

During his junior year, Denny was switched from playing Ist string wide receiver to 4th string quarterback. Denny didn’t particularly care for that – going from a starter to riding the bench. But God spoke to him and said he would quarterback the team to an undefeated season for the first time in Louisiana Tech’s history “for my Glory.” Long story short, Tech was undefeated that year. At the bowl game, an ABC reporter shoved a microphone in his face and commented that the bowl victory made their win 12 in a row. Denny replied, “Well, sir, I asked God for an 11-0 season, and he gave us a 12-0, praise glory.” That shows you what God can do.

After playing a few years of professional football, Denny returned home to Shreveport to help his father “finish” leading his church. Once his father retired, Denny had every intention of resigning his position. Again, this was not in God’s plan for him. “Because I’m a Christian, here’s what I believe with all my heart. It doesn’t matter what we want to do with our life. We have to listen to God’s plan for our life. If we just ignored what He wants for us, we would go down wrong paths over and over again – and then how would your life turn out?”

Denny chose the path God laid out for him, and countless lives have been changed. His mother. Frances. had founded a school in 1980 that Denny was destined to be part of. Evangel Christian Academy has grown from a K-8th grade school to one of our area’s most established and “highly honored” K-12th grade schools. ECA focuses on providing a comprehensive education as it prepares its students for various aspects of life, from academics and athletics to spiritual growth and development.

The role of faith in the establishment of Evangel Christian Academy cannot be overstated. Denny believes in the power of the Holy Spirit to affect the Kingdom of God through students who are mature in their Christian faith. Denny started a football program, which he coached for a number of years. Under his and numerous other coaches’ guidance, the Evangel Varsity team has garnered 18 District Championships, 43 State Championships, and 1 National Championship. Over the years, Evangel Christian Academy has achieved several notable milestones in its development. It has been named by USA Todav as one of the top eight high school springboards to the NFL. This recognition is a testament to the school’s rigorous athletic program, which has sent some 30 football players to the NFL and other professional leagues.

In addition to football, Evangel Christian Academy offers a variety of sports for students to participate in, including baseball, boys’ and girls’ basketball, cheering, and more.

Each athletic program aims to develop well-rounded student-athletes who excel in their respective sports while also prioritizing character development and community involvement. Evangel Christian Academy fosters an environment where students can thrive on and off the field by emphasizing the importance of athletics and personal growth.

Denny used football as a platform to share the gospel. He’d been trying to set football aside his whole life, and God just wouldn’t let up. “We have to listen to God’s plan for our life.” This is what he believes, and this is what he has taught so many Evangel Footballi players. Could this be God’s plan for Denny all along? With every winning season, through the trials of the losing ones, Denny believes that the Lord has helped them do what they do. “We just couldn’t take credit for it, honestly. To tell the truth, there’s nobody that understands what has happened here,” Denny chuckles. I like to call it what it is – a God thing.

ACT II:

At the age of 10, Aaron Benward met Denny when his father, Jeffery, and Denny were ministering together. Denny Duron impacted Aaron at such a young age that he considers Denny a mentor. For 40 years, they’ve kept in close touch. One day, during a phone conversation, Aaron asked how the football team was doing. Denny replied that they were having a hard time. It was so hard, in fact, that Denny was coming out of retirement to head up the coaching staff. Aaron asked, “When?” Denny replied, “Tomorrow.” After that phone call with Denny, Aaron began to toss around the idea of making a docu-series based on “one of my favorite people – one of my heroes,” Denny Duron. And with that, he began what became a three-year process, from the first day of shooting to the date it was aired. “God, Family, Football” follows ex-football player and high school football coach Denny Duron as he leads the team during the 2022 high school football season. The series ran on Amazon’s premium free streaming service, Free Vee. Evangel just signed a contract with Fox Nation for two more seasons with an additional two episodes per season.

This exposure on a national platform showcases the school’s commitment to excellence in athletics and faith, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in Christian education.
Do you see how God works?

ACT III:

The role of athletics at Evangel Christian Academy extends beyond physical prowess, as the school uses sports as a platform for character development and community building. In the “God, Family, Football” docuseries, we see Evangel players being taught to put God first in their pursuit of success on the football field, with coaches emphasizing the importance of faith, dedication, and teamwork. This approach to athletics instills valuable life lessons in student-athletes, preparing them for success in all aspects of their lives. For example, Denny uses a “Performance Spectrum” chart for his coaches to understand better who is “in the game.” The Performance Spectrum evaluates each player’s capabilities, practice performance, and actual game performance on a scale of 1 to 3. The spectrum never lies and allows coaches to call the right plays with the right players on the field at the right time. There are a few exceptions to what appears on the chart. Thoroughbreds, for example. Denny explains, “Some players are scaled high on the skill set chart but are low on almost everything else, but they still help you win ball games.
You have to recognize your thoroughbreds and figure out how to treat them without messing up the culture and chemistry of the team.” Denny is currently working on writing a book on the Performance Spectrum Theory. It applies not only to coaching sports but also to business coaching and leadership.
“God, Family, Football” is a spellbinding viewing event. It not only follows Denny and his coaching staff but also takes you into the lives of some players. Their home life, their school day, the ups and downs of winning and losing, and Evangel’s impact on community involvement.

Through this shared experience, the school community comes together to strengthen the bonds between its members. The series showcases the school’s emphasis on relationship-building, which extends to its athletic programs, most notably its football team. We witness the camaraderie and support among the players, coaches, and families. Evangel has an energetic team of moms working behind the scenes to support their boys. Watching and reinforcing the importance of these relationships within the Evangel community is inspiring.
Viewing the show will give insight into who and what Denny Duron is. He’s the real deal. Perhaps that’s why Denny was included in the 2024 Shreveport-Bossier’s 20 Most Powerful Men.

Congratulating him would probably make him blush and quickly tell you that his strength comes from a higher power. With God’s guidance, Denny, the coaching staff, the teaching staff, and the administration, rest assured there’s more to come for all the athletic teams and students at Evangel.

Evangel Christian Academy has big plans for expansion and growth in the coming years. One of the primary focuses of this growth is their football program’s continued development and success. With a storied history of sending players to the NFL and its recent journey to rebuild the program, Denny Duron has high hopes for the future of Evangel Christian Academy’s football team. He’s a great motivator and believes in tackling things “one play at a time.”

The school’s motto, “God, Family, Football,” reflects its commitment to nurturing students’ connections with God, growing deeper Christian roots, and instilling a strong sense of family values in them. Evangel Christian Academy’s educational approach incorporates prayers, Bible teachings, and spiritual guidance, which allows students to explore and deepen their faith. As a result, students at Evangel Christian Academy experience personal growth and spiritual development that extends beyond the classroom and the football field. God has plans.
And there you have it-a great story made for TV in three acts with more to follow.
We’ll leave you with a beautiful quote from Denny taken from the first episode. One that should go on a T-shirt someday:
“It’s tough to beat a great team, but it’s almost impossible to beat a great family.”

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AUGUST 2024 : GOOD, FAMILY, FOOTBALL

SB Magazine — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:02:20 +0000

AUGUST 2024 : GOOD, FAMILY, FOOTBALL

Step into August 2024 with a focus on all things good, family, and football. This month, embrace the warmth of family gatherings, the joy of spending time with loved ones, and the excitement of football season kicking off. Whether you’re planning a special event, enjoying a day out with family, or cheering on your favorite team, August is all about creating lasting memories and celebrating what matters most. Let this month be filled with love, laughter, and the thrill of game day.

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As we prepare for the opening of a new school year, our minds go back to those much anticipated “first days” of school. We’d get to see friends who we might have missed all summer. Would there be any new kids? What would our teachers be like? These same thoughts go through our children’s minds as we inch closer to the opening bell that signals, “Here we go!”

You remember how you felt. It’s important to think about how today’s kids might be feeling. They’re being exposed to new technology that didn’t exist or was just getting tuned up back in our day. For little ones, those big buildings are scary and overwhelming. It may very well be their first time to be away from mom for such a long period of time.

Let’s give our teachers all the love and grace they deserve. They’ve just spent an entire week preparing the classroom for your child’s arrival, and many spend personal funds to make the room welcoming and safe for every student.

Lastly, be aware of school zones. Slow down and be aware that kids sometimes don’t pay attention, so you should. According to statistics, as many as 100 school children are injured every year in accidents that occur in a school zone.It’s a dangerous place for kids.

Let’s decide that this school year will be the safest and the most productive for our kids and teachers. Get ready for that class bell!

COVERS STORY

10 FAITH, FAMILY, FOOBALL

COLUMNS & FEATURES

6 & 76 EYE ON SB

16 PERSON OF INTEREST

-BO HARRIS

18 REAL ESTATE TIPS

40 ART & CULTURE
– LOGAN SLEDGE

42 HEALTH & WELLNES

44 NON-PROFIT PROFILE

46 BOOK REVIEW -100 THINGS
TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE

48 NEW SCHOOL YEAR, -NEW LAWS

50 AI IN EDUCATION

64 ONLINE SAFETY FOR KIDS

68 HOME FEATURE

74 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

50 GOOD TO KNOW

50 AND ANOTHER THING

SPECIAL SECTIONS

21 TOP REALTORS

54 BACK TO SCHOOL

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And Another Thing: What did you do Last Summer

SB Magazine — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 14:28:52 +0000

What You Did ‘Last’ Summer

Remember the last summer you were a kid?

I’m talking about a bona fide, documents-on-the-wall, true blue kid, a kid with a bicycle and a dog but no driver’s license and no “real” job, and not much sense.

THAT summer. The one before confusion and hormones kicked in, before your heroes disappointed you, before you learned your parents weren’t perfect and the world wasn’t either.

It was that summer before high school when your calling card was the joy of being young and irresponsible, when ice cream melting, a flat tire on your Schwinn, and a crack in your baseball bat were your biggest problems. Other than having to be home at 6 for supper, your schedule was as open as the day’s possibilities.

How did you spend your “last” summer? And when was it?

If you’re Don Reid, that summer was The Summer of 1959, and he tells you all about it and much more in “Piano Days,” his 11th book published since his retirement from the music industry in 2002.

If the author’s name sounds familiar, it’s because he was the lead singer for The Statler Brothers, one of the most awarded acts in the history of country music. If you know the name “Don Reid” like you know your friends’ names, then you are basically me or like me — an authentic, genuine, certified Statlers nut.

Just thinking about The Statlers and their producer, Shreveport’s Jerry Kennedy, makes me feel good. I see those names and immediately hear music, the kind that won more awards than you can shake a dobro at.

Don has quit singing now except for Sunday mornings at Mt. Olivet Presbyterian, his church since boyhood in Staunton, Virginia. A prolific songwriter, he has not, thank the Lord, quit writing.

Published by Mercer University Press in Macon, Georgia, “Piano Days” is a novel featuring three boys growing up in a small town in the late 1950s and early 1960s. They ride 26-inchers with chrome handlebars, frequent the Burger Barn, visit a fortune teller and football games, grab a book out of a locker for World Geography class, call girls and then hang up before the final number has been dialed, and sometimes timidly and sometimes bravely go on actual dates.

Sound familiar?

There’s Toby and Billy, Sue Jane and the two Tinas, Lannie Mae and Main Street, and the National Guard Armory and the ol’ green and white, the school colors. These are teens who learn to dance (sort of). They endure a principal who is half Joe Friday and half Edgar G. Robinson. Somebody drops a jar in science lab, the one with the snake in formaldehyde. They ask Daddy for the keys and go to the drive-in.

Your memories and mine, simple and sweet.

It’s a time, Don writes – more appropriately, the book’s main narrator writes – that he looks back on “with a tenderness and a sadness that makes me smile.” Those times include that summer of 1959 when they were just boys, imperfect, but having fun. Their last biking summer, their “last summer for being kids and doing kid things and not being ashamed of them,” he writes. “The last summer for exploring the mysteries of life without having to solve them.”

“Maybe it’s the last one I can look back on with absolutely no regrets — except that it is gone forever, taking the people and the time with it, and leaving only my sentimental memory as a witness that it was ever there at all.”

So it’s been for us all, once upon a beautiful time …

“Piano Days” is a love letter to a special place and time, one long Statler Brothers song. But it also offers you a mirror to consider how that summer and the precious ones around it come back to you years later in ways you could not have known or even imagined then.

You can read “Piano Days” or listen to it or, like me, do both. The audiobook is read by Don, so it’s like he’s next to you, telling you about church softball and the county fair and the Christmas parade and all the other things he — and we — did as kids when we were imperfect and youthfully irresponsible, blissfully ignorant, and having fun.

There’s a last time for everything, even barefoot summers. So, allow yourself some time to remember and daydream. It feels good to be a kid again.

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SB FASHION: Greetings Beloved Readers

SB Magazine — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 14:25:48 +0000

Your SB Fashionista, Casey Craig, here!

Love is in the air, and wedding season is upon us! The past few years have felt like a rollercoaster love affair with plenty of highs and lows. After a flood of postponements, cancellations, and precautions in 2020 and 2021, the rush to make up for lost time in 2022 brought the biggest boom of matrimonial ceremonies in almost 40 years! 2023 is slated to be the largest celebratory season yet. You’re probably even sorting through a stack of invitations right now which inevitably leads to the question of what to wear!

The Farmhouse Barn Wedding.

Ever-so-popular in the deep South are rustic nuptials with more cowboy boots than heels. Elevated comfort is the name of the game here, so slip on an easy-going dress with a polished finish. Try a classic neutral palette in muted hues of khaki, blues, and greens. Choose a lightweight fabric such as cotton, linen, or chambray that will keep you comfortable.

Big City Sophisticated Wedding.

When the occasion calls for chic city sophistication, gravitate toward stylish and structured outfits that feel sleek and modern without being too statement-making. A bold and architectural take on the LBD that is not for the faint-of-heart wallflower will stand out, but no one will accuse the wearer of upstaging the bride, either. A sleek low ponytail or French twist, clean and classic metallic jewelry, a nice timepiece, and a contemporary clutch will provide the polished finish you desire.

Beach Resort/Destination Wedding.

Chances are you’ve been invited to an exotic locale with a humid climate. Lightweight dresses, jumpsuits, and shorter hemlines are perfect for shoreside ceremonies. A tropical wedding is the perfect excuse to wear this season’s bright, bold colors. Magenta, aquamarine, and other neon hues will pop against the beachy backdrop. Mules, wedges, and other shoes with low, block heels will ensure you’re steady on the sand or in the grass.

White/Black Tie Wedding Event.

If the bride is in couture and the groom is in a tuxedo with tails, it’s your moment to go all out! No exceptions. When it comes to formal weddings the hemline of your dress should be floor-length, not showing the ankles, with an appropriate dress shoe and bag to match. If you’re looking for something a little less feminine, a trendy, well-tailored pantsuit is a perfect alternative for wedding guests with a little edge.

Backyard Garden Party Wedding.

Celebrating a summer-in-the-south wedding in a beautiful outdoor setting can be an unforgettable experience, especially in the wrong outfit. In the sweltering summer heat, be sure to keep cool and comfortable in the perfect garden party frock by selecting midi length dress in a neutral or light color palette in a flowy, light, loose-fitting fabric such as cotton or chiffon with a flattering fit that gives classic, fresh, fashion-forward vibes..

Semi-spontaneous elopement to Vegas.

Prepare to say cheers to the new couple in a fun cocktail dress that makes a glamorous statement. Metallic finishes are on trend and rich, vibrant colors always work well for those memorable moments of spontaneous splendor. Lean into the feel of elegant whimsy with a smoothed low ponytail, strappy stilettos, a clutch, and shoulder-skimming earrings.

Traditional Church Wedding.

A church wedding almost always calls for modesty and simplicity, usually meaning a more conservative look in a floor-length, tea length, knee length, or midi dress. If the classics are preferred, choose a feminine floral piece as an easy, polished go-to design. If you desire a touch of modernization, look to a style that features a more contemporary print as an extra restatement of a formal classic.

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