With the Pilgrims held up as our example, we learned early to “be grateful.” 

As they dragged us to various in-laws’ in assorted neighborhoods for turkey and pumpkin pie and secondhand smoke, our parents reminded us that at the first Thanksgiving in 1621 (give or take), the settlers of the New World had it much tougher than we do. They had to eat outside. They didn’t have potatoes over here yet. The yeast rolls didn’t rise. William Bradford forgot to pick up a Marie Callender’s Apple Crumb Cobbler at the store, and the cable went out halfway through the Detroit Lions-Chicago Cardinals football game. 

“And they didn’t even complain,” our parents said. 

“Bet they got drunk then,” I said. 

“No, they most certainly did not!” 

The Pilgrims really WERE tough; I would have complained if there’d been no potatoes. Loud and clear. They could have heard me back over in England.  

But to hear our parents testify, no one 40 years ago ever complained about anything, especially on Thanksgiving. When you are spoiled like I am, that is setting the bar sort of high. But hey, I’m old school too and really not much of a complainer – as long as everything goes right. That’s just me. 

This week, complaining is a given. This week is about the pre-Thanksgiving misgivings about “where we’re going for Thanksgiving.” Do you know where you’re going yet? Or what you’re bringing? Or the order in which you’re going to whomever’s house when? Are we all on the same page? 

It can be dicey. 

“Are we going to grandmama’s?” 

“Not this year. But we’re not sure. We might.” 

“When will we know?” 

“I don’t know. Who are you, Dan Rather? We’ll know when we hear from everybody and decide.” 

“It’s Tuesday.” 

“Then good! Since Thanksgiving is on Thursday, as it usually is, that means we don’t have to know yet.” 

“We’re cutting it close.” 

“I’ll show you what cutting it close is, mister!” 

“I was just asking…” 

“Well just quit just asking, mister man. Your grandmother might meet us at Big Aunty’s. We might go there.” 

“Not to Big Aunty’s! Big Aunty can’t cook, momma. Big Aunty won’t have nothing even done until supper. We’ll starve.” 

“She most certainly will have and you most certainly will not starve. I’ll make you a pimento cheese to hold you over. We might just all bring different things.” 

“What do you mean, ‘we all?’ Who all is coming?” 

“Aunt Jean will bring the macaroni and cheese and we’ll bring the bean casserole and…” 

“Momma that means Uncle Lester is coming. He’s a professional smoker. We’ll all smell like something burnt. They’ll be ashes in the macaroni.” 

“No there will not!” 

“There was last year.” 

“You’ll think last year if you don’t shut up! Now I mean it!” 

“Can we just stay home and make hamburgers?” 

“NO! We can be thankful and not complain about gummy rice and ashes in the food and Jello with nuts in it and getting your picture taken. And if I hear one word, ONE MORE WORD….” 

Precious memories. And Happy Thanksgiving; I hope you get where you’re going. 

(Originally ran Nov. 20, 2009) 

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu 

By Robert St. John

L. Frank Baum nailed it when he penned the line, “There’s no place like home,” in his novel about the man behind the green curtain in land of Oz. Five truer words may never have been spoken. Home is where our lives grow fuller and richer. It’s one of the main sources of joy for me.

And It’s not just a physical building on a street, down the block from other houses in one— of several— neighborhoods that make up a town or city. No. Home is a concept as much as it is a place.

Home is a fully realized noun. Home is people, whether they be friends, family, co-workers, random acquaintances, or other individuals who have chosen to live in a specific locale and impact our lives in certain ways. I believe home can be multiple places at once. Home can also refer to such things as pets and general material things.

With that established, I am so glad to be home.

I have spent the past six weeks working in Italy. When I speak to people about what I do in various European countries for three months out of the year, I make sure to use the term, “work.” Because it most certainly is. Whereas it would be very nice to vacation in assorted European locales for weeks at a time in the spring and fall, that’s not in the cards for me.

It is definitely work. Seven days a week with a half day off in the middle to the tune of 80 hours a week. Usually there is an off day in between groups when we restock the villas and organize things to get ready for the next group, but not always.

I have spent the past six years hosting Americans from all over the country through Italy and Spain. In all I have hosted just over 600 people, mostly from the south, in groups of 25 each turning them on to the people, places, and things— other people’s realized nouns— I have discovered through the years. Though two of those years I spent shuffling people over again and over again during Covid. So, it’s actually 600 people in four years.

Technically, all haven’t been in Europe. I hosted two comprehensive tours in Mississippi. Those were a blast, and recently I have been fielding a lot of requests to host another Mississippi tour or two. As soon as I can find a spare week, we’ll announce.

I’m also scheduled to host a group in Holland and Belgium on the first of May. I am excited about that upcoming 10-day jaunt. Everyone I have ever met from those two countries are some of the most wonderful people I have met in Europe, or anywhere for that matter.

I am not a group travel person. Never have been, never will be. But there is something about the way these tours transpire that make them feel like nothing more than a bunch of friends on the road together, discovering new and wonderful local food, art, and culture. Several of my guests over these past six weeks came up to me and said, “When you said, ‘this is not like group travel,’ I was skeptical. But it really isn’t.” Though no one can ever put a finger on why. It just isn’t.

Unlike in “The Wizard of Oz,” there’s not one man behind the curtain, there are dozens of people who make the RSJ Travel division of Different Drummer Inc, work. Simeon Williford has the title of “Executive Assistant” to me. But she does so much more than that. A large part of her workday is spent promoting, booking, scheduling, and organizing tour groups. It’s a lot of work, and she does a great job. When new tour dates are announced, the following hours are hectic as there are only 25 spots to fill with dozens— sometimes hundreds— of interested travelers. A few months ago, we released the new Spain 2023 dates and the tour sold out in 90 minutes. When we announced the Holland-Belgium dates, the spots were filled in an afternoon. The three spring 2023 trips filled in a day. Williford manages all of that, expertly while handling my schedule and the publishing business.

Maria Keyes is my longtime CFO. We’ve worked together for over a quarter of a century. The financial end of the trips is handled by her, while she’s also juggling all our restaurant’s accounting, and my personal financial matters. She is good is what she does and hits the ground running every weekday, and often in her off hours on weekends.

My longtime Italian friend, Annagloria— who also owns the villas we rent— handles most of the bookings and reservations for Tuscany groups. Her daughter Gemma helps with those duties and her other daughter Bianca works in various capacities during the week. Enzo, Annagloria’s husband helps with random things, from running to the airport to pick up late-arriving guests, to coming out to the villa (which is in a very remote spot) to help get the electricity back on after a lightning storm at five in the morning (if that sounds specific, it’s because it just happened a week ago).

Marina Mengelberg started as a tour guide, and still performs those duties expertly. But she also has joined me as a co-host on some tours and stays with guests in the second villa. Everyone loves Marina, and they all leave happier after spending a week with her.

Jesse Marinus is a travel professional and helps me book trips I do outside of Tuscany. He also travels with our group when we are in Rome, Naples, and all of Spain. He and Mengelberg are both Dutch and will be joining me through the entire jaunt through Holland and Belgium.

One of the key components of these tours is transportation. We crisscross Tuscany in Mercedes vans. I call Fabio Bellino, “The minister of transportation,” and he is. Transportation on any excursion such as this is vital to the success of a trip.

The people on the ground in the U.S. work to make it easy for guests to leave their home to spend a week with us. The people overseas welcome us into their “home” so we can appreciate all it has to offer before heading back to our own. And the 400 team members in our restaurant hold down the fort. I love Hattiesburg and I love Mississippi, it’s not like I ever need to go away to appreciate it, but every time I come home, I am so glad to be from here and to live and work here

Coming home after each excursion gives me a new appreciation of home and the people who I am surrounded by in my daily life. I flew in at midnight and was up at 4:30 a.m. the next morning on my way to Jackson to get to work at the new Italian restaurant. The timing there has been unfortunate. I like to spend the first three months at a new concept helping get its feet off the ground. The hard scheduling forced me overseas after the second week. I have been itching to get back. The to-do list is long. First items on the agenda are tweaking the menu, taking off a few of the items that aren’t selling and adding several authentic Italian items I learned through research and development during my six-week stint in Italy.

It’s good to be home to my people, places, and things. The work continues.

Onward.

Pasta Carbonara

No peas, no cream. That’s real Pasta Carbonara.

1 lb. Dry spaghetti pasta
1 gallon Water
¼ cup + ½ tsp Kosher salt
3 TB Extra virgin olive oil
½ lb. Guanciale or Pancetta, medium diced
2 cups Parmigianino Reggiano, shredded
1 tsp Fresh ground black pepper
4 each  Whole large eggs, beaten slightly, at room temperature
½ cup Warm pasta water

Cook the spaghetti using the intructions on the package.

Heat the oil in a small skillet on medium heat. Add pancetta and stir frequently until cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Allow to cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, grated cheese, remaining ½ tsp salt, black pepper, and pasta water (if the water is too hot you might want to add it in small amounts so the eggs won’t scramble). Mix well. Add hot spaghetti. Add the cooked pancetta and its oil over the pasta and combine thoroughly.

Divide among 6-8 serving bowls.

(Robert St. John is a chef, restaurateur and cookbook author who lives in Hattiesburg, Miss.)

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has concluded a drawdown of Lake Bistineau in Webster, Bossier and Bienville parishes for the purpose of giant salvinia control. LDWF has requested the Department of Transportation and Development to close the water control structure on November 28.

The drawdown is a necessary component of LDWF’s integrated management plan to control overabundant aquatic vegetation growth and to improve the Lake Bistineau sport fishery.

And annual cycle of high and low water fluctuation can provide beneficial effects similar to a natural overflow lake system. The Lake Bistineau Waterbody Management Plan can be viewed at https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/resources/category/freshawter-inland-fish/inland-waterbody-management-plans.

Closing the gates at this time should allow the lake to be at full pool for traditional recreational activities in the spring.

By Bonnie Culverhouse

Two north Webster Parish residents are behind bars today, thanks to a quick-thinking witness.

Brandon Scott Day, 38, of Church St., Sarepta, and Hallie Renee Watson, 19, of 3rd St. SE, Springhill, are charged with aggravated burglary, burglary, theft of a firearm, theft and felon in possession of a firearm.

Springhill Police report the two were observed by a witness forcibly making their way into a Springhill residence in the 100 block of Penny Circle.

They allegedly stole a black television set, 2 antique swords, a 45 caliber handgun from a display case, spotlights, radio, cordless drills, air compressor, Shop Vac, shop fan, bar clamps and electrical cords.

According to the police report, Day and Watson left the scene but when they returned, the witness “blocked them in” and called police. The subjects were still on scene when police arrived. They were arrested and booked. They also have prior felony convictions.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

A country music legend is joining with United Way of Northwest Louisiana to provide a brand-new book club for kids in the multi-parish region.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a book-gifting program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five, no matter their family’s income, will be available to kids without access to books.

According to the United Way of Northwest Louisiana, Shreveport’s 71103 is one of the poorest zip codes in the region where families are struggling.

Currently, any child under five-years-old living in Desoto, Natchitoches, Sabine, Red River and Webster parishes can participate. Additional funding is needed to enroll all children in Caddo, Bossier, Bienville and Claiborne parishes.

“It’s important to remember that, broken down, early literacy refers to what children know about reading and writing before they actually learn to read and write,” said Kim Sentell Director of Marketing for Webster Parish Libraries. “It is the foundation upon which children will be ready to learn to read and write when they are taught. Literacy begins the minute a child is born. The summation of a child’s conversations, activities, and experiences all contribute to the early literacy foundation. In fact, the benefits of reading extend beyond language and literacy skills. Reading books can encourage children to be intellectually curious, inspire problem-solving, promote empathy, increase self-esteem, and help them understand the world and connect with people around them.” 

Each month, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library mails a high quality, age appropriate book to all registered children, addressed to them, at no cost to the child’s family. Many groups and individuals work hard behind the scenes to make that special moment possible for each child.

Imagination Library provides the infrastructure of the core program including managing the secure central database for the book order system and coordinating book selections and wholesale purchasing. It also incurs the cost of the program’s administrative expenses and coordinates monthly mailings.

Imagination Library partners with local affiliates and partners who help bring the program to cities, towns and communities around the world. Local affiliates can be businesses, school districts, small or large organizations, or simply individuals who share in the mission and purpose of the Imagination Library. 

Local affiliates are responsible for enrolling children who live within the geographical area where the program is offered. While the Imagination Library negotiates wholesale pricing for the books, local affiliates and partners are responsible for securing funds to cover that cost.

“There are some wonderful organizations out there that are stepping up to increase access to early-age reading materials,” said Sentell. In return, the fruits of those efforts make a difference in empowering our children, who are our future leaders for success. It is fantastic to see that Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is one of them. Any opportunity a child gets to read is an advantage; the earlier, the better.”

In October, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library gifted more than 2,148,000 books. The total number of free books gifted as of October, 2022, is 193,008,232.

Ways to register a child for the Imagination Library include: visit the Smart Start website: www.smartstartpfc.org; contact the Imagination Library office to have a paper registration form mailed; call 828-693-1580.

Everybody knows Minden loves a parade and what better way to kick off the Christmas season!

Planned for 4 p.m. Saturday, December 17 in downtown Minden, this year’s theme will be “Rudolph’s Holly Jolly Christmas.” Entries should feature your favorite Rudolph song or image as inspiration. Build a float or other parade entry to illustrate the theme. Have music playing for an extra touch! You may add lights and colors to make your entry unique.

The parade will begin promptly at the corner of Second Street and Main Street and ends at the same location. Line up begins at 2 p.m. at the corner of Second Street and Main Street and continue down to McDonald and College streets. PLEASE DO NOT BRING VEHICLES, TRAILERS, OR FLOATS TO LINE UP BEFORE 2 p.m.! To Drop off participants to get to their floats, please drop off at Academy Park. Pick up will be in same location at Academy Park.

Questions? Contact: Stephanie Barnette at (318) 377-4240 or (318) 510-1610 or email president@mindenchamber.com

If you are throwing candy or trinkets, you MUST have adult walkers on either side of your unit!

ENTRY DEADLINE: All parade entry forms must be completed and returned to the Greater Minden Chamber by 4 p.m. Wednesday, December 14.

AWARDS WILL BE GIVEN FOR:

• Best Band
• Best Marching Group
• Santa’s Award – Given to the overall outstanding entry presenting and illustrating the theme “Rudolph’s Holly Jolly Christmas!”
• Spectacular Sparkles -Given to the entrant that presents an outstanding display of lights and/or other type of illuminations*

 Awards will be presented following the parade in front of the Minden Civic Center*

Lights and Christmas music are welcome and encouraged!

Since the parade is broadcast live on KASO/KBEF Radio, all entrants must supply their own signage for their float/entry. Banners and signs should be neat and easily recognized. Six-to- eight-inch lettering is recommended. Basic, simple signs show best. The judging of the floats will take place as you pass in front of the Minden Civic Center.

Any float with children must have one adult for each five children.

Please NO SANTA costumes! Santa will have his own float at the end of the parade. Santa Claus is our featured guest each year.

To fill out the parade entry form online, visit – https://forms.gle/t9uNqc35k42GNTz56

To learn more about all of the Christmas in Minden festivities, visit https://greatermindenchamber.com/christmasinminden/

Webster Parish Libraries would like to thank Cindy Madden for sharing her time and knowledge with our genealogy group at yesterday’s meeting in Minden. We also want to thank Mary Wynn for assisting Mrs. Madden with her presentation. Heritage organizations are one of the most requested topics from local researchers and we are very appreciative of the abundance of information that was provided by these two historians. If you were unable to attend but would like information about this topic, feel free to contact the library at 318-371-3080.

By Tina Montgomery

The Santa Shuffle will kick off the 14th annual Sarepta Christmas Festival on December 3.

Event organizer and teacher at North Webster High School Claire Lay says the Santa Shuffle is a major fundraiser for the Northwest Cross Country Team. 

“The funds raised will pay for fees at meets, uniforms, and other things like that,” Lay said.

Santa Shuffle is a Fun Run and 5K Run that draws participants from all over the area to Sarepta. This is the fourth year the Santa Shuffle will be part of the Sarepta Christmas Festival. 

Lay is serving her third year as event organizer.  She also serves on the Christmas committee and says the race is a great way to kick off the day long events for the Christmas Festival. 

“It’s really good. People come in for the race and stay for everything else that day. The festival started off really small but it’s really grown over the years,” Lay said.

The Santa Shuffle will be held at Sarepta Park. Check in and last minute registration begins at 9 a.m. The Fun Run (ages 10 and under) starts at 10 a.m. The 5K (open to all ages) starts at 10:30 a.m. Medals will be presented to the top 3 finishers in each division:

Men’s 5K- 15 & up

Women’s 5K- 15 & up

Boys’ 5K- 14 & under 

Girls’ 5K- 14 & under

Fun Run- 10 & under

Lay says registration is still open for the Santa Shuffle. Entry fee for the Fun Run is $10 and the 5K is $20. For more information or to sign up contact Claire Lay at 318-464-8970.

Nov. 26

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.  Mistletoe Market in Springhill’s CAC Building hosted by Springhill Chamber of Commerce.  Kick off the Christmas Shopping season with craft vendors and boutiques.  Admission free. Visit with the Shreveport Santa (10-2) sponsored by Carter Credit Union.

5 p.m. Springhill Christmas Parade hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.  Springhill Main Street.

Nov. 28

8 a.m. Minden City Council workshop, Agenda: Employee handbook. Pelican Room at Minden City Hall. The public is invited to attend.

Current-Nov. 30

Motorcycle exhibit at Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, 116 Pearl St., Minden. Motorcycles courtesy of 3 State Harley Davidson.

Dec. 2 & 3

6 p.m. “From Humbug to Hallelujah,” A musical comedy that presents the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge – with a twist. Eastside Missionary Baptist Church, Minden, La. For information, call 318-286-1259 or 318-377-2528.

Dec. 3

10 a.m. until dark. Sarepta Christmas Festival will be held December 3 from 11 a.m. until dark. There will be live music, food and craft vendors, a 5K run, treasure hunt, pictures with Santa and more! A fireworks show will take place at dark. The Christmas Festival will be at the Sarepta Park and Community Building on Vine Street.

Dec. 6

6 until 7:30 p.m. Webster Parish Library. Meriwether Wealth and Planning will present a community education seminar “No, It’s a Scam!” Learn about the latest scams and schemes targeting Webster Parish residents. Presenters Jason Parker, Webster Parish Sheriff and Tracy L. Campbell, financial advisor for Meriwether W&P. No cost to attend but pre-registration is required. Seating limited to 35. RSVP 318-377-1803. Refreshments will be provided as well as important take-home information.

Leland Dale Peek

Oct. 21, 1963 – Nov. 19, 2022

Visitation: 9 until 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden, La.

Graveside service: 11a.m. following visitation, Peterson. Cemetery, Homer, La.

Margaret Leona Fulton

March 29, 1940 – Nov. 21, 2022

Memorial service: 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28, 2022, Western Cemetery Emerson, Ark., under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Webster Parish Journal publishes paid complete obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $80. Contact your funeral provider or wpjnewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Above death notices are free of charge.)

By Paige Nash

Kristine Cole with Wise, Martin & Cole, L.L.C. attended the Webster Parish Convention & Visitors Commission board meeting last Wednesday to present the 2021 Financial Review. 

Cole discussed the possibility of a full-blown audit for the 2022 fiscal year. Audits are needed in cases when the overall revenues exceed $500,000.  

For the year 2021, overall revenues were $479,000, so it is possible the board will exceed the amount of $500,000 for the year 2022.  

In conclusion to the report, Executive Director of the WPCVC Serena Gray asked Cole about establishing Miller Quarters Park as a 501c3 organization.  

Gray asked, “If we were to set up a 501c3 for Miller Quarters Park, would we be able to receive services in kind, like maintenance perhaps?” 

According to the Internal Revenue Code, to qualify as a 501c3, an organization must be organized and operated exclusively for tax-exempt purposes and none of its earnings may benefit any private shareholder or individual. Commonly, organizations that are 501c3 are referred to as charitable organizations and are eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. 

Cole explained that setting up a 501c3 was not necessary since the tourism commission is a government agency, they are a tax-exempt entity and can receive contributions since they own that property.

“Since you own the property, people could actually make those contributions to the tourism commission and you would just give them a statement saying, ‘you made a contribution to use, it’s tax deductible,’ ” Cole said. “Since you are a political subdivision, you do not have to set up a 501c3. But since you are a political subdivision, any money that comes through you is public money and can only be spent according to public funds and you are subject to the law.” 

On the other hand, if the board wanted to create a non-profit organization just to keep things separate a 501c3 will allow them to be considered a charitable tax-exempt organization. This would allow them to accept donations in cash or non-cash forms, such as services.  

“If you are just wanting to keep it separate and create a non-profit organization, someone is going to have to be in charge of doing all that paperwork, keeping up with the records and filing the application to be able to qualify as a tax-exempt organization,” said Cole. “You will be required to keep up with things that are donated. Mostly, it’s going to be your tangibles and supplies. As a 501c3 organization, you will be required to keep up with the information and statements they give at the end of the year.” 

Cole offered to get the board an application if that is something they wanted to pursue. No decisions were made regarding setting up Miller Quarters Park as a 501c3 organization at this time. It is only being considered.  

Three persons were transported to Minden Medical Center Monday morning with non life-threatening injuries following a 3-car accident on the corner of Homer Road (Hwy. 79) and Country Club Circle.

Minden Police said of the two main vehicles involved, both drivers claimed to have the green light.

By Bonnie Culverhouse

Webster Parish Sheriff’s deputies have arrested a local man after viewing video of his vehicle striking another and leaving the scene.

Nicholas Shamar Williams, 21, of the 200 block of Shirley Drive, Minden, was arrested for hit-and-run and possession of marijuana.

Sheriff Jason Parker said Dep. Jacob Winiarski was dispatched to a truck stop in Dixie Inn Friday afternoon in reference to a hit-and-run incident in the restaurant parking lot.

“The deputy made contact with the victim who showed damage on her vehicle,” Parker said. “He reviewed security camera footage and obtained pictures of a white Charger with a black stripe along the bottom of the doors.”

Parker said Winiarski also obtained pictures of a male entering and exiting the restaurant. A waitress reportedly confirmed the individual to be Williams.

“While patrolling inside Minden City limits, the deputy observed the vehicle on Talton Street and initiated a traffic stop,” said the sheriff. “He made contact with Williams and noted he was wearing the same clothing as in the security footage.”

The deputy placed Williams under arrest and while speaking with him reportedly noticed the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. Williams allegedly admitted to having the marijuana inside his vehicle, and while conducting a search, the deputy reportedly discovered a small clear plastic bag containing suspected natural marijuana.

“The deputy also noticed damage on the vehicle that was consistent with the hit-and-run,” Parker said.

Williams was transported to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Two Minden Police officers graduated the Bossier Sheriff’s Department Training Academy last week.

Just in time for the holidays, this can work for any course of any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cans crescent rolls
• Cranberry sauce
• 1 (8 or 12 ounce) wheel of Brie, cut into cubes
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  On a baking stone unroll crescent rolls, separating each one.  Arrange with the thick end toward the inside in a sunburst pattern.  The base of the triangles should overlap.  Spread cranberry sauce on dough.  Top with bacon and Brie.  Fold triangle tips over and tuck extra dough underneath.  This will make a ring so you have a hole in the middle of the dough.  Whisk eggs and baste over dough.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Bake for 15-20 minutes until done.

(Ashley Madden Rowton is a wife, mom and published cookbook author.)

The Dorcheat Soil and Water Conservation District is now accepting applications for their annual scholarships.

This year the District will give two $500 scholarships to two seniors in Webster Parish/Dorcheat SWCD who will major in the field of science. This will include medical science. These scholarships includes an additional $500.00 after the first semester/quarter with GPA of 3.0 or better.

Scholarships are open to public, private and home-schooled students.

Applications are available at the Dorcheat SWCD Office, 216 Broadway Street, Minden, LA. 71055. Deadline is March 1, 2023.

For further information, please call the Dorcheat SWCD office at 318-377-3950 Ext. 3.

I spent Monday running some errands, taking my 11 year old to the doctor, and reading while I watched the USA in the opening round of the World Cup. 

The soccer first. For the unaware, the World Cup is the Olympics of the sport. Held every four years, the Cup pits national teams against each other in a tournament for global bragging rights. It’s being held in the Middle Eastern nation of Qatar this go around, and a fair amount of controversy has overshadowed the games themselves. 

Corruption has swirled since the hosts were announced in 2010. It’s universally believed that the nation basically bought the games for $7 million. Corruption at a staggering level. It is also believed that some 6,500 slaves died constructing stadiums for the event. In early 2021, UK newspaper The Guardian published a detailed investigation on the tragedy. 

The nation is one of the worst on record for human rights. Women are second class citizens. Homosexuality is a crime. There is no freedom of press or religion or security from the government/theocracy/police. Rights are subjective and dissent is punished harshly. 

It’s a very bad place. But the West has largely ignored the region. It took the Qatari government banning alcohol sales for any eyebrows to raise here at home. Such is the way of the world. 

To the book. After Thanksgiving break, I’ll teach the novel 1984. It’s a classic work of literature, but my own high school days was my last reading and I needed a refresher. I watched the game while I read, and I grimaced at the similarities between the work of fiction in my hand and the work of fact on my television screen. 

1984 tells the story of an oppressive government that sees all, knows all and rules all. It is the most famous example of what can happen as our freedoms are chipped away by those higher on the economic ladder.

Freedom is fragile. We have this false notion that America and the dream she represents is unbreakable, a bullet proof idea that will stand the test of time. However, the story of the world has been shaped with a sword and the citizens of mother earth have almost always lived the lives of the serf. 

From the Patriot Act to the listening device with the Apple emblem stamped across it, we have allowed our freedoms to slowly erode in exchange for games and circuses and distraction and frivolity. Each passing year, Big Brother encroaches more and more and makes itself a larger part of our lives. Religion is minimized. The family is ridiculed. The lawsuit rules all. The threat of legal action, rather than the sword, now shapes the world. 

The message is no longer do what is right. Now we are guided to not be the oak in the storm. The oak breaks. Be the reed because it always falls when the tempest comes its way. 

It all reminds me of the quote:

“First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.

“Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist.

“Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.”

It all makes me sad.

(Josh Beavers is a teacher and a writer. He has been recognized by the Louisiana Press Association five times for excellence in opinion writing.)

Bluegrass and Southern Gospel band The Cox Family entertained the Minden Lions on Thursday with a 30-minute set of their favorite songs. Pictured, from left, are Lion Tracy Campbell, who invited and introduced The Cox Family; Sidney Cox, Sara Cox, Lydia Cox, Anna Cox, and Lion President Tommy Davis.

The following arrests were made by local law enforcement agencies. Minden Police Department (MPD), Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office (WPSO), Louisiana State Police (LSP) and others which are named.

Nov. 16

Gary Michael Ruthardt Jr., 44, of the 11,000 block of Hwy. 80, Dixie Inn, was arrested by MPD as a fugitive from Dallas County, Texas.

Anglee D. Merrill, 28, of Homer, La., was arrested by Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries on a warrant for possession of a sch. 2 Controlled Dangerous Substance.

Nov. 17

Erica Beene, 41, of Haynesville, was arrested by Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office. She is being held in Webster Parish jail for issuing worthless checks and as a fugitive from Arkansas.

Shauntae Heard, 42, of Homer, was arrested by Homer Police for no seatbelt. She is being held in Webster Parish jail.

Nov. 18

Levi Dale Andrews, 38, of Hallsville, Texas, was arrested by Probation and Parole on a probation violation.

Lejerrick Bryant, 33, of Jacob Lane, Minden, was arrested by WPSO for battery of a dating partner.

Jayden Trotter, 19, of Louisiana Ave., Minden, was arrested by MPD for domestic abuse battery.

Nov. 19

Glenn Wayne Walker, 46, of Shongaloo, was arrested by WPSO for a state Probation and Parole violation.

Jimmy LeWayne Lester, 51, of the 300 block of Lakeview Dr., Doyline, was arrested by WPSO on a warrant for fugitive out of Bossier Parish.

Nov. 20

Semaja Jukwan Prather, 24, of the 400 block of 7th St. SE, Springhill, was arrested by WPSO on an active warrant.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Nov. 22

9 a.m. until noon. Webster Parish Head Start/Early Head Start Program is hosting a Job Fair at Mother Gooseland Head Start Center, 618 Weston St., Minden, La. 

Nov. 26

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.  Mistletoe Market in Springhill’s CAC Building hosted by Springhill Chamber of Commerce.  Kick off the Christmas Shopping season with craft vendors and boutiques.  Admission free. Visit with the Shreveport Santa (10-2) sponsored by Carter Credit Union.

5 p.m. Springhill Christmas Parade hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.  Springhill Main Street.

Current-Nov. 30

Motorcycle exhibit at Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, 116 Pearl St., Minden. Motorcycles courtesy of 3 State Harley Davidson.

Dec. 2 & 3

6 p.m. “From Humbug to Hallelujah,” A musical comedy that presents the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge – with a twist. Eastside Missionary Baptist Church, Minden, La. For information, call 318-286-1259 or 318-377-2528.

Dec. 3

10 a.m. until dark. Sarepta Christmas Festival will be held December 3 from 11 a.m. until dark. There will be live music, food and craft vendors, a 5K run, treasure hunt, pictures with Santa and more! A fireworks show will take place at dark. The Christmas Festival will be at the Sarepta Park and Community Building on Vine Street.

Dec. 6

6 until 7:30 p.m. Webster Parish Library. Meriwether Wealth and Planning will present a community education seminar “No, It’s a Scam!” Learn about the latest scams and schemes targeting Webster Parish residents. Presenters Jason Parker, Webster Parish Sheriff and Tracy L. Campbell, financial advisor for Meriwether W&P. No cost to attend but pre-registration is required. Seating limited to 35. RSVP 318-377-1803. Refreshments will be provided as well as important take-home information.

Leland Dale Peek

Oct. 21, 1963 – Nov. 19, 2022

Visitation: 9 until 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden, La.

Graveside service: 11a.m. following visitation, Peterson. Cemetery, Homer, La.

Margaret Leona Fulton

March 29, 1940 – Nov. 21, 2022

Memorial service: 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28, 2022, Western Cemetery Emerson, Ark., under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Webster Parish Journal publishes paid complete obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $80. Contact your funeral provider or wpjnewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Above death notices are free of charge.)

By Landrie Still

Glenbrook Apaches took on the Catholic of Pointe Coupee Hornets from New Roads, La. Friday night for the second round of the LHSAA playoffs. This matchup was a tough one, but once again, Glenbrook came out on top. The Apaches have continued their 11-0 winning streak as a result of their 42-21 win over the Hornets. 

According to Head Coach David Feaster, “Tonight was such a fun night…everyone seemed like they were having fun. I think everyone appreciated how good this team [Pointe Coupee] really was, so it was a great accomplishment for our players.”

The Apache team captains for the night were Maddox Mandino, Cason Clemons, Dayton Sims, and DJ Carter. The Hornets won the toss and elected to receive. After the kick off, Pointe Coupee recovered the ball on their 35 yard line. The Hornets were only able to move the ball a few yards before being forced to punt as a result of plays by Daivari Jackson, Carter, Mandino, Landry Powell, and Toby Haulmark. The Apaches then took over on their 40 yard line where Carter broke through for a long run to the Hornets’ 19 yard line. 

Although the Apaches pushed hard, they failed to score from 2 pass attempts to Mandino and Powell. As Pointe Coupee regained possession of the ball, their offense pushed through to score the first touchdown and extra point of the night with 1:52 left in the quarter. With the pressure to score, Ty Feaster passed the ball to Cason Clemons, who scored an Apache touchdown with 1:11 remaining in the first quarter. The extra point was incomplete, adjusting the score to 6-7 with the Hornets in the lead. Pointe Coupee took over the ball on their 35 yard line, where Mandino, Seth Mangrum, Hayden Harmon, and Powell each made strong tackles and stops, resulting in the Hornets being forced to punt. 

The Apaches worked cohesively throughout the start of the second quarter to gain multiple first downs, which led to another Apache touchdown, scored by Turner McLelland after he caught an unbelievable pass under tight coverage. To increase their lead, Carter also found his way into the end zone for a 2 point conversion for the Apaches. The Apaches confidently took the 14-7 lead with 9:21 left in the second quarter. Pointe Coupee took over the ball on their 20 yard line and tried their hardest to push the ball toward the end zone. 

While the ball slowly moved down the field, hard tackles and stops were made by Rhett Johnson, Powell, Garrett Brown, and Luke Vining. The Apaches took over on their 36 yard line, but soon turned over on downs. With 42 yards to go, the Hornets pushed down the field to score a touchdown and extra point, tying the score at 14-14. With 1:00 until half time, the Apaches once again attempted to score but were unsuccessful as the clock ran out. The score still remained tied 14-14 at the half.

The third quarter of the matchup began as Glenbrook took over on offense at their 30 yard line. After a handoff to Carter and a first down by Sentell, Feaster and McLelland connect once again to score for the Apaches with 10:41 left in the quarter. With a successful extra point, Glenbrook increased its lead to 21-14. On defense, the Apaches attempted an onside kick, but it was unsuccessful, leading to the Hornets taking over midfield. Brown made huge tackles as a host of Apaches stopped the ball on third down. A Hornet fake punt moved the ball to the 26 yard line, where Johnson caused an incomplete pass and Mandino blocked a Hornet pass in the end zone on fourth down. Both teams fought hard, but the score did not change at the conclusion of the third quarter.

The fourth quarter began with the Apaches on offense. Glenbrook quickly increased their lead as Feaster passed the ball to McLelland, Carter, and then Johnson, who brought the ball to the end zone with 10:38 left in the fourth quarter and a score of 28-14. With the change to defense, Clemons intercepted the ball, allowing the Apaches to prepare for important offensive plays. After several significant first downs, Carter made his way into the end zone. 

After Feaster’s successful extra point, the Apaches increased their lead to 35-14 with 8:31 left in the game. After several strong defensive plays, Glenbrook regained possession of the ball on their 30 yard line. Feaster soon completed a pass to Tre Kent, who ran into the end zone for an Apache touchdown with 2:34 left in the game. Although strong defensive tackles were made by Mangrum and Brayson Cummings, Pointe Coupee broke through for the last touchdown of the night with 0:40 left in the game. After an interception by Kent, the Apaches moved into their victory formation to run out the clock with a final score of 42-21.

The Apaches never gave up, which led to the success of the night. 

“There were times tonight when I was on the sidelines thinking we are really good,” Coach Feaster said. “There’s things we can do that no one else can.” 

Next week, the Glenbrook Apaches will take on the Ouachita Christian School Eagles in Monroe. This will be an exciting match up and will test the Apache’s skills and abilities against a very good Ouachita Christian team.

Today I’m writing this article based on my personal experience as a tournament angler. Over the years, I’ve come across a lot of anglers who have always talked about how they should be fishing tournaments because they “ALWAYS” catch fish every time they go fishing. All I have to say to these anglers….”You’re a liar!” These same people will try and tell me how good they are as a bass fishermen and that if they fished in tournaments, they would probably be standing in the winner’s circle at the end of the day. To these same anglers, I say, “Put your money where your mouth is!” 

I came across one such angler one day on Toledo Bend, who in his mind, was the best angler on the lake or maybe even the greatest angler of all time! During one of my practice sessions on the Bend, this guy came up to me at the boat ramp. While loading my boat he eased over to me and proceeded to talk about how many fish he caught that day and that he quit counting at 100. I’m not sure why, but for some reason, some anglers feel the need to exaggerate how they caught 100 fish in a day. In reality, they probably really caught about 30 to 35….not 100. If you think about how many casts you make in a day, to catch 100 basses in a day is about 1 bass every 4 casts. That would be an awesome day by anyone’s standards and a day all anglers dream about.  

Now during my conversation with this angler at the ramp, he asked me if I was getting ready for a tournament. My answer was yes, and he said that he would probably win it if he decided to fish it. My response to him, with a sense of sarcasm of course, was that if he was on that many fish, he’d be crazy not to fish the tournament. And, that I might as well just give him my entry fee! This is what we call baiting someone!

Well, low and behold he showed up Saturday morning and put up his money (donated). I was a little surprised he showed up because most of these “great” anglers never show up. He actually pulled up beside my boat before takeoff that morning and began to tell me how many fish he had caught the last two days and put in the freezer. It was at this point; I knew he was in trouble. After a tough day of fishing, as the fish did not bite very well at all, I pulled up beside him at the dock and asked how he did. Let me go ahead and state the obvious; he was not a happy camper (angler) due to the expression on his face. I was the last guy he wanted to talk to since he had talked so much trash about how he “always” catches fish every time he goes fishing. He finally answered me by saying how he just couldn’t understand what had just happened. He’s never gone fishing in his life and not caught fish! He was very confused and had that bewildered look (so many anglers have had before) as to what just happened.

 It was at this time with a smirk on my face and a wink, I said, “Welcome to tournament fishing!” It just proves that no matter how good an angler you are or think you are, there will be days that you just don’t figure them out. Oh, and with a slight chuckle, I reminded him that the fish he caught the last two days and put in the freezer won’t bite on tournament day after they’re frozen. That’s why tournament anglers practice catch and release. I never saw this guy at a tournament ever again! Guess you could say he got humbled; tournament fishing will do that to an angler. Till next time, good luck, good fishing and don’t forget your sunscreen. Take it from me, Melanoma does not discriminate!  

 Steve Graf

Hook’N Up & Track’N Down Show &

Tackle Talk Live