Nov. 15

6 until 8 p.m. Junior High Fall Social, Lakeside Jr./Sr. High School.

Nov. 16

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Council on Aging is sponsoring another On-on-One Medicare meeting. Call for an appointment. 318-371-3056.

Nov. 19

9 a.m. Poker Run Registration. See http://www.dorcheatmuseum.com for info or call 318-377-3002.

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 3rd 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.

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Marjorie N. Rutledge

June 10, 1929 – Nov. 10, 2022

Visitation: noon until 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022 at Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Graveside service: 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022 at Springhill Cemetery, Springhill, La.

Grady Lavelle Hughes Jr.

August 31, 1930 – Nov. 10, 2022

Visitation: 9 until 9:45 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022 at Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Graveside service: 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022 at Springhill Cemetery, Springhill, La., under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home.

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.)

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Minden Police have made arrests – two specifically – in last Saturday’s shooting death of 32-year-old LaRicker Washington.

Tashun Bailey, 25, of the 700 block of Buck St., Minden, is charged with First Degree Homicide. His bond is set at $600,000.

Henry Brown Jr., 27, of the 700 block of Brook Alley, Minden, is charged with First Degree Homicide. His bond is set at $200,00.

Bailey allegedly shot Washington in the head around 9:45 p.m. Saturday. Washington died Sunday afternoon.

“Apparently, there was some bad blood between Bailey and Washington,” Chief Steve Cropper said. “Supposedly, some time in the recent past our victim threatened the shooter with a gun.”

According to Bailey, he drank beer all day Saturday with his uncle, Johnathan Cooksey.

“He got drunk, and when he left his uncle’s house, his path crossed with Washington,” Cropper said. “Bailey said Washington stared at him and it scared him because Washington had pulled a gun on him in the past.”

Bailey reportedly said he was so frightened, he returned to his house, retrieved a gun and as he passed the motel and saw Washington standing there, he shot him.

Brown is charged because he reportedly was with Bailey and served as his “look out.”

Kenisha Franklin, 30, of the 1000 block of Cherry Street, has been charged with obstruction of justice. Her bond is set at $20,000.

Cropper said Franklin was in Washington’s motel room when the shooting took place.

“Mr. Washington had a firearm in that motel room the night he was shot,” said the chief. “Prior to law enforcement’s arrival, Franklin removed the firearm and gave it to another male to hide.”

Cropper said the firearm was illegal because the serial number had been “drilled out.”

“I don’t know what she was trying to accomplish because that firearm was not involved in the shooting whatsoever,” he said. “It was an AR 15-type rifle. Shell casings left at the scene were from .22 caliber ammunition.”

Cropper said there could be another arrest pending from that particular gun.

Cooksey was arrested with an indirect connection to the shooting.

“His name came up that he might have some information in reference to it,” Cropper said. “Some of the officers were looking for him, and he heard about it, so he voluntarily drove himself to the PD.”

As he was being placed in an interview room, Cooksey was searched for officer safety.

“He came up here with a pocketful of Ecstasy,” said the chief. “It was individually wrapped. Officers searched his vehicle and inside he had a 9 mm handgun. He was charged with possession of Ecstasy and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.”

Cropper said his investigators have worked almost around the clock since the shooting occurred.

MPD officers were joined by Webster Parish Sheriff’s deputies, U.S. Marshal’s task force and Drug Enforcement Administration task force.

“We had several search warrants, and they were all instrumental in serving those,” Cropper said. “We really appreciate all their help.”

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.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

With 45 entries on Tuesday’s ballot, it took a while to get all results, Webster Parish Clerk of Court Holli Vining said Wednesday.

“There were a lot of mail-in ballots, but it’s not unusual,” Vining said. “They’ve increased a lot in the last couple of years.”

In this case, there were 1,036 mail-in ballots.

Vining said a scanner is used, however, if there is a problem with mail-ins, they must be counted by hand.

Registrar of Voters Angela Hall said there are 23,893 registered voters in Webster Parish. Just over 50 percent or almost 12,000 voted.

Webster Parish Journal ran an online poll preceding the election. An online poll should rarely be considered scientific. Some of the results were correct. Some, well, not so much.

Here are our rankings.

Minden Mayor

Online Poll ranking:

1. Nick Cox, 2. Terika Williams Walker, 3. Billy Mills

Actual vote ranking:

1. Nick Cox, 2. Terika Williams Walker, 3. Billy Mills

District A Minden City Council 

Online Poll ranking:

1. Carlton “Buddy” Myles, 2. Darrell Morris, 3. Wayne Edwards

Actual vote ranking:

1. Wayne Edwards, 2. Buddy Myles, 3. Darrell Morris

District B Minden City Council

Online Poll ranking:

1. Joey Frye, 2. Damien Kemp, 3. Levon “Charlie” Thomas

Actual vote ranking:

1. Levon “Charlie” Thomas, 2. Joey Frye, 3. Damien Kemp

District C Minden City Council:

Online Poll ranking:

1. Javelin Hardy, 2. Latasha Mitchell, 3. Maretta Gage, 4. Vincen “Cheese” Bradford

Actual vote ranking:

1. Vincen “Cheese” Bradford, 2. Latasha Mitchell, 3. Javelin Hardy, 4. Maretta Gage

District D Minden City Council

Online Poll ranking:

1. Habacu Morales, 2. Michael Roy, 3. LaKeyla Williams

Actual vote ranking:

1. Michael Roy, 2. Habacu Morales, 3. LaKeyla Williams

District E Minden City Council

Online Poll Ranking:

1. Andy Pendergrass, 2. Thomas Adams Jr., 3. Michael Fluhr

Actual vote ranking:

1. Andy Pendergrass, 2. Thomas Adams Jr., 3. Michael Fluhr

Minden Police Chief

Online Poll ranking:

1. Jared McIver, 2. Larry Morris

Actual vote ranking:

1. Jared McIver, 2. Larry Morris

Webster Parish School Board District 2

Online Poll ranking:

1. Debbie Thomas, 2. Terrell Mendenhall

Actual vote ranking:

1. Debbie Thomas, 2. Terrell Mendenhall

Webster Parish School Board District 4

Online Poll ranking:

1. Jonathan “Goose” Guthrie, 2. Jeri “JJ” O’Neal

Actual vote ranking:

1. Jonathan “Goose” Guthrie, 2. Jeri “JJ” O’Neal

Webster Parish School Board District 6

Online Poll ranking:

1. Jana Watson, 2. Fred Evans

Actual vote ranking:

1. Jana Watson, 2. Fred Evans

Webster School Board District 8

Online Poll ranking:

1. Glenda Sherrill. Broughton, 2. Phillip Michael Smart

Actual vote ranking:

1. Glenda Sherrill. Broughton, 2. Phillip Michael Smart

Mayor of Springhill

Online Poll ranking:

1. Ray Huddleston, 2. Ronnie Hearnsberger, 3. Courtney Allen

Actual vote ranking:

1. Ray Huddleston, 2. Ronnie Hearnsberger, 3. Courtney Allen

Mayor, Village of Doyline

Online Poll ranking:

1. Crystal “Christie” Gates, 2. Gary T. Carter

Actual vote ranking:

1. Crystal “Christie” Gates, 2. Gary T. Carter

Alderman, City of Springhill, District 1

Online Poll ranking:

1. D. Nicole Frazier, 2. Danyell Gipson

Actual vote ranking:

1. D. Nicole Frazier, 2. Danyell Gipson

Alderman, City of Springhill, District 2

Online Poll ranking:

1. Johnny Craig, 2. Dennis Smith

Actual vote ranking

1. Dennis Smith, 2. Johnny Craig

Alderman, City of Springhill, District 3

Online Poll ranking:

1. Patsy Leonard, 2. Stacey Willard, 3. Debra Rester

Actual vote ranking:

1. Stacey Willard, 2. Debra Rester, 3. Patsy Leonard

Alderman, City of Springhill, District 4

Online Poll ranking:

1. Alex Edwards, 2. Mike Whitlock

Actual vote ranking:

1. Mike Whitlock, 2. Alex Edwards

Alderman, City of Springhill, District 5

Online Poll ranking:

1. Derek Melancon, 2. Brandy White

Actual vote ranking:

1. Derek Melancon, 2. Brandy White

All results are unofficial until certified by the Louisiana Secretary of State. Vining said that should take place by noon Tuesday, Nov. 15.

The Congressional General Election will be held from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10. That election will include any parish runoffs. Wednesday, Nov. 9 was the last day to register to vote for this election.

Early voting is from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Nov. 26 through Dec. 3 (excluding Sunday, Nov. 27). Deadline to request an absentee ballot is 4:30 p.m. Dec. 6 (other than military and overseas voters). Deadline for Registrar of Voters to receive absentee ballot is 4:30 p.m. Dec. 9. 

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Hi there. I’m Pat Culverhouse and it has been my pleasure to sit in the Rockin’ Chair these many weeks, sharing with you information we believe is relevant to our town, its growth and its future.

Some may think Rocker is stepping from behind the curtain because his name has been revealed, primarily on Facebook where speculation is the order of the day. Pas si, mon ami. It’s time to come out because that’s the agreement we made when the WP Journal first hit the ‘Net. Permission was given to pen an anonymous column but with the understanding the no-name wouldn’t be permanent.

For the record, we’re very pleased with the readership numbers. Each Thursday, these continue to grow. We’re also happy that so many of you are responding. Hope you will continue to do so.

Like the proverbial cat, Rocker is out of the bag. Now, readers have someone to address. A face at which critics can toss rocks and insults. A name to use in vain. A person to be held responsible for perceived negativity, disunity and disdain.

Purpose of the Rockin’ Chair has been and will continue to be a means to direct sunshine on things many might prefer to leave in the shadows. Rocker is saying in print what a host of you apparently are thinking. Rocker wants you to understand that certain subjects, and people, are not immune from being observed with a critical and, yes, cynical eye. No subject should be taboo.

A thimbleful of readers who have objected to the Rocker say his comments are not well researched nor based on the basic principles or journalism. Let’s set that record straight.

Rockin’ Chair is an opinion, not a news piece. A columnist is free to take liberties with how a subject is presented, whether it’s through satire or critical analysis. Rocker chooses primarily satire, and a quick trip to the dictionary will explain.

A columnist expresses an opinion. A columnist isn’t obliged to agree with the power structure, and he certainly isn’t obligated to go along just to get along with self-proclaimed leaders or those who consider themselves above criticism due to their perceived status. Every opinion needs to be heard, not ridiculed if it differs from another’s. 

A journalist, on the other hand, is obligated to seek the truth (not his/her perception of the truth) and report it accurately without bias or prejudice. A journalist doesn’t alter information to fit an agenda, to influence readers or to curry favor.  Too many of today’s journalists fall short of these standards. 

Worth mentioning are a couple of categories into which many who claim to be journalists seem to fall. First, there’s the publicist. That’s the writer who would never dream of publishing anything negative and will go miles around a subject to keep from offending “the right people.” This one’s also called a promoter/panderer.

There’s the propogandist, who publishes only the party line. He writes what “leaders” tell him and the truth is whatever the propogandist slants it to be. Believe it or else. 

Rocker promises to continue watching the goings-on that affect us all. You will read the good, the bad and the ugly about issues and the people who are alleged to be leading us in our city and parish. What you see is Rocker’s opinion. Rocker may embellish for effect, but that’s the way it goes.

Rocker values your opinion. Please feel free to disagree. It would be nice, though, if those who disagree would do so in a civil manner. Demeaning dialogue serves no useful purpose, and pandering to social media minions is tawdry.

Final opinion. Any individual, especially a proclaimed journalist, who violates a trust and an oath is neither trustworthy nor honorable. Revelations reveal more about the revelator than what is disclosed. 

Continue to join us in the Rocker. There’s always room for more.

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By Paige Nash

The Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission board met Monday afternoon for the first of many discussions regarding the future of Miller Quarters Community Park. 

Even though the board has received quite a few inquiries, at this time the property cannot be rented to host events due to the board not having all the proper paperwork in place. Then comes the issue of the tourism board being a political subdivision of the state. Since they are funded by tax dollars, they are not allowed to make a profit. 

“Is there a cost? We need to know how to book it if someone wants it booked,” said Serena Gray, Executive Director of WPCVC. “As a political subdivision we are not allowed to compete with other venues in town, so we cannot make a profit on what happens out here. We can make money to cover the cost of things, but when it gets to a point where we are making a profit it gets tricky.” 

There are a handful of venues downtown that are struggling to stay booked, including Orleans on Main, the Venue on Pearl and Easley Studios Courtyard. 

“What position is it going to put us in if we start offering this for free and people are no longer renting from these downtown venues? That’s a topic for discussion,” said Gray. 

The park set to host their first big event in April of next year. Just last month the Scottish Society of the Louisiana Highlands made their official announcement that they would be holding their annual Scottish Tartan Festival at Miller Quarters, but much is left to do.  

Establishing electricity, water, paperwork for a rental agreement, pulling city ordinance documents and securing the house that is on the property were on top of the to-do list. 

Many members shared what their vision was for the future of the park. 

“My heart’s desire is to see Miller Quarters be a place to bring our community together. I think we accomplish a whole lot more together than separated,” said commissioner Ty Pendergrass. “ 

All board members could agree that a multi-purpose park would be ideal, allowing space for large-scale events, but also for smaller occasions like birthday parties, youth group gatherings, picnics, and reunions.  

Buddy Myles, local resident, and owner of Seafood Empire expressed his desire for maintaining and commemorating the cultural history of the property.  

“I know that rehabbing the structure that is there is a big deal and maybe a plaque or something listing the history of what Miller Quarters was, something about the families that lived there and the family that developed that land for that purpose. That is a bulk of what I have gotten from the people who actually lived there,” said Myles.  

Plans to designate the property as a historical site with the Louisiana Preservation office are in the works, along with the possibility of having it added to the Civil Rights Trail which spans 15 states with more than 100 locations. Louisiana currently has 5 destinations along the trail in New Orleans, Bogalusa, Baton Rouge, Lafayette and Alexandria-Pineville.

Commissioner Tracy Campbell suggested putting out a survey offering the community a way to share their opinions.  

He said, “We can ask, ‘what is most important to you’ with multiple choices, but also a place where they can type their thoughts. Let us just open a window where the survey is available to complete in a 30–45-day period, then close that window. Afterwards, we can meet and discuss what was at the top.” 

The board plans to meet again before the end of the year for their second round of discussions.  

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Planning activities for the 2023 edition of the Archery Shooters Association (ASA) tour event scheduled for Camp Minden have begun, and already a multi-parish cooperative effort is underway to make more improvements at the tournament site.

Equipment and workers from the Bossier and Webster Parish police juries along with the Caddo Commission are currently hauling and spreading asphalt millings to enlarge the tournament village grounds, an area that will also serve as a staging area for the Louisiana National Guard.

Last year’s event drew more than 1,600 competitors, family, vendors and visitors from 41 states plus Canada and Australia. ASA organizers have planned a 10-year run at Camp Minden and predict a $25 million economic impact for northwest Louisiana over that period.

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Q: “I’m already a good shooter.  Why do I need more training?”

A: “Being a good shooter and being an effective gunfighter are not the same thing.”

Marksmanship is simple, not easy.  Simple means not complicated.  Easy means not difficult.  Properly align your sights, perform a controlled press of the trigger, and you’ll hit the target.  Shooting really is that simple.  Fighting, however, is a different animal entirely.  Fighting encompasses all that happens before, during, and after your gun is drawn, combining many simple tasks into one very difficult ordeal.   

When training at Tactical Response in Camden, Tennessee, I was introduced to the “Wyatt Protocol.”  The Wyatt Protocol, named for developer Lyle Wyatt, was created in southern California while Wyatt and Andy Stanford were training US Marines at the Martial Marksmanship Institution.  The Wyatt Protocol is a checklist for when in an armed or unarmed fight and can be summarized as follows:

1. Fight (shoot).
2. Do I need to continue fighting (shooting)?
3. Do I need to fight (shoot) anyone else?
4. Prepare to fight (shoot) again.

In the Tactical Response curriculum, the Wyatt Protocol was taught by using the acronym “F.A.S.T.” for Fight – Assess – Scan – Top-off.  Fight (shoot) the bad guy.  Assess the bad guy and determine if he’s still a threat.  Scan surroundings to see if anyone else is a threat.  Top-off gun and be prepared to fight again. 

Step one is very straightforward and is the simplest step to complete under stress.  FIGHT.  If you need to shoot a bad guy, shoot him until he’s no longer a threat.  That leads us directly to step two.

ASSESS the bad guy you’ve just shot.  Is he down?  If so, is he still armed?  If he is still armed, is he still a deadly threat?  Continue fighting until you’re sure the bad guy is incapacitated.

When the bad guy is no longer an immediate threat, SCAN your surroundings.  Attacks occur in pairs or groups most of the time – just because you downed one scumbag doesn’t mean the fight is over.  Also, everywhere we go and everything we do is in a 360-degree world.  Scanning your environment is no different.  Therefore, you need to scan your surroundings 360 degrees.  When you scan, you’re looking for other good guys, other bad guys, and places to go.

Then, TOP-OFF your gun.  Even if you’ve only fired a couple rounds, if you have the opportunity to re-fill your gun’s fuel tank, do it.  It’s better to start fighting, or continue to fight, with a fully loaded weapon.  If possible, reload when you can, rather than when you must.  To be able to top-off, you must have another magazine (or a speed loader for you antiquated, wheel gun toting folks) on your person.  Don’t carry extra ammunition solely out of fear of running dry.  Carry a spare mag for keeping your weapon full and to fix malfunctions.  If your gun jams and a “tap – rack” doesn’t fix it, then replace the magazine.

Before we can fight with a weapon, we must first know how to access that weapon.  Regarding handguns specifically, we must know how to efficiently get them out of a holster and, if you’re carrying your gun properly, how to draw it from concealment.  If this task sounds simple, that’s because it is.  However, it’s not always easy.  Murphy lives inside your holster and his law is THE LAW.  If you want to see what happens when you need your gun but have not trained to draw it properly, look no further than the West Freeway Church of Christ shooting in December of 2019.

When teaching his students, the late James Yeager, owner and self-titled “MFCEO” of Tactical Response, would often say, “It’s not the great shot that wins the fight.  It’s all the small mistakes you don’t make.”  Simple tasks – such as drawing your pistol, performing a reload, or clearing a malfunction – often get overlooked when we go to the range because honing those skills isn’t particularly fun or cool.  Furthermore, folks tend to spend most of their time practicing in areas where they’re already proficient because they don’t like to fail.  Just know that your ego has no place in your training or practice regiment.  Ego is the kryptonite of progress.

You might find yourself in a situation where you’re the last person to know you’re in a fight.  Profound revelation, huh?  Because anyone can be caught off guard or flat-footed, all the seemingly mundane tasks and fundamental aspects of being a martial gun handler must be trained and practiced until they are literally ingrained into your psyche.  Continue to better yourself.  Keep learning, keep training, and keep practicing the things you’re taught in training.  Good guys don’t choose when fights happen, but we can sure decide how they end.

Tune in next week, and remember… 

Avoid what you can.  Defeat what you can’t.

-Ryan   

Please submit your questions to Ryan via email at Ryan@9and1tactical.com

 (Ryan Barnette is not a licensed attorney and no information provided in “Slicing the Pie” or any other publication authored by Ryan Barnette should be construed, in any way, as official, legal advice.)

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Minden Police have arrested a local man for felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile.

Terrance Lyons, 30, of the 1300 block of Sheppard St., Minden, is being held on a $200,000 bond at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.

Chief Steve Cropper said Ofc. Chris Cayer made contact with the mother of a 16-year-old female last week after she discovered the teen was having a relationship with Lyons.

“She found messages on her juvenile daughter’s phone,” Cropper said. “They were between her daughter and Lyons and detailed encounters dated November 3, between the two in Facebook Messenger.”

The chief said Det. Shane Griffith obtained a warrant for Lyons and on November 8, Shreveport City Police Department served the warrant in Shreveport. He was taken into custody without incident and taken to Shreveport City Jail, where the detective took custody and transported him to Minden PD for questioning.

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.

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Incomparable impact over 57 years at his beloved alma mater, Northwestern State University, and in his adopted hometown of Natchitoches, along with significant statewide influence in higher education and sports were hallmarks of Jerry Pierce, who died Tuesday in Natchitoches after a brief illness.

Visitation is Friday evening from 5-8 p.m. and his funeral is Saturday at 2. Both will be held at the First Baptist Church in Natchitoches. 

Born and raised in Springhill, Pierce was a proud 1957 Springhill High School graduate. While in high school, he not only was sports editor of the high school newspaper, but also served in that capacity for the weekly Springhill Press. He maintained relationships with lifelong friends from home until his passing.

Pierce, 83, was executive vice president and professor of journalism at Northwestern, serving under his ninth president, Dr. Marcus Jones. He oversaw alumni and athletic operations and other aspects of the university for decades, and was named VP for External Affairs in 1990 by Dr. Robert Alost. That role was the cornerstone, but hardly the only aspect of his service-filled life.

His behind-the-scenes contributions were integral to the production of the hit 1989 major motion picture “Steel Magnolias,” filmed entirely in Natchitoches, written by NSU graduate Robert Harling and starring Academy Award winners Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Olympia Dukakis and Shirley MacLaine, and entertainer/actress Dolly Parton. That film has since attracted countless visitors to the community while spearheading transformational development of a vibrant downtown area. He also was influential to another Hollywood production, the critically-acclaimed “Man in the Moon” 1991 film shot locally that was the debut of Academy Award-winning actress Reese Witherspoon in a cast that included Sam Shepard and Tess Harper. 

Pierce was a key advocate for over a half-century with governors and legislators not only for the best interests of Northwestern and Natchitoches, but for the region and especially higher education in the state, particularly the University of Louisiana System that serves nine public institutions and nearly 100,000 students annually. He held tenure on the faculty at Northwestern.

Pierce was the driving force behind establishing modern operations at NSU and in Natchitoches for the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. He was chairman and spearheaded annual inductions from 1971-90, a tenure that ultimately led to the 2013 opening of a $23 million, 27,000-square foot museum in downtown Natchitoches, a facility that has received international acclaim. 

In 1993 the New Orleans Times-Picayune named him one of the 20 “Most Influential People in Sports in Louisiana.” He helped guide Northwestern into four different athletic conferences: the Gulf South (1972), Trans-America (1980), Gulf Star (1983) and its current affiliation, the Southland Conference (since 1987). Pierce served a term as president of the Southland.

He received a vast array of recognitions and honors, including his 2000 enshrinement in the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame with the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism, his 2018 induction in the N-Club Hall of Fame for athletics at NSU as a Leadership Award recipient, and his 2021 enshrinement in the Long Purple Line, the highest honor Northwestern issues to its alumni. Pierce was named the 1979 Natchitoches Parish “Man of the Year” by the American Legion, was presented a lifetime membership in the LSWA and was the first-ever Mac Russo Award recipient from the LSWA for contributions to the organization’s ideals and purpose in 1983.

Pierce, a popular speaker and master of ceremonies around Louisiana for many years, was an accomplished tennis player. He was part of United States Tennis Association local teams that won over a dozen state championships, five regional crowns and a national championship. 

He was an acclaimed writer, columnist and author of a well-received book, “Prayer Meetings and Pink Corduroys, Reflections of Life in Rural Louisiana and Other Stuff.” He won a myriad of writing and publications awards from organizations such as the Louisiana Press Association, the LSWA and the College Sports Information Directors of America.

Pierce was perpetually active in community organizations and civic causes, and active in his church.

Jerry came to Northwestern from his hometown, and served four years as a trainer/manager for beloved football coach Jack Clayton. He earned his journalism degree in 1961 and went to work for the New Orleans Times-Picayune, rapidly rising to serve as executive sports editor at age 24. In time for the 1965 football season, he and his family returned to Natchitoches and he began working at Northwestern, first as sports information director. He soon assumed additional duties as news bureau director and other external roles, including management of alumni affairs, assistant to the president and ultimately, his vice presidential post 32 years ago. He became a journalism professor soon after joining the university staff and later was awarded tenure.

Pierce is survived by his wife of 20 years, Regina Bruce Pierce, and two sons, Randall “Randy” Craig Pierce (Beama) of Baton Rouge, and Richard J. “Rick” (Denise Deville) of Natchitoches, and his daughter, Natalie Prewitt Ducote (Keith) of Natchitoches. He has nine grandchildren, twins Evan Randall Pierce (Grayson) of Baton Rouge and Amanda Pierce Brignac (Branden) of Baton Rouge, along with Miranda Pierce of Baton Rouge, Karmeyla, Ava, Allie, and Charlee Ann Ducote, all of Natchitoches; Spencer Sanson (Holly) of Metairie; Sayle Sanson (fiance’ Kyle Hammack) of New Orleans; and six great grandchildren. 

Other survivors are his brother, James Pierce (Janet) of Haughton; and two aunts, Fern Mulholland of Cantonment, Fla., and Gloria Legeti of Lebanon, N.H. He was preceded in death by his parents, George Love Pierce and Jerrell Floreece Pierce of Springhill. 

His life will be celebrated with a Friday evening visitation from 5-8 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Natchitoches. The funeral service is Saturday at 2 o’clock at the church. Services are under the direction of Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home.

Brother Tommy Rush, pastor of First Baptist Church, will officiate the funeral service. A eulogy will be shared by Dr. Jim Henderson, an NSU journalism graduate who became president of the university from 2014-16 before ascending to his current role as president of the UL System.

Serving as pallbearers will be former NSU athletics director Greg Burke, NSU provost Dr. Greg Handel, Henderson, Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts executive director Dr. Steve Horton, LSHOF chairman Doug Ireland, current NSU president Dr. Marcus Jones, retired NSU president Dr. Chris Maggio, and NSU assistant vice president for external affairs Dr. Drake Owens. 

Jerry was blessed to have his dear friend Angie Perot as his secretary for over 20 years, and she will be among the honorary pallbearers.

Other honorary pallbearers will be Patric DuBois, Edwin Dunahoe, Coley Gahagan, Don Kelly, Lovan Thomas, Tommy Whitehead, and Jerry’s Monday lunch group, The Gerousia, along with all members of the Natchitoches Agitators. He was a founding member of both social organizations.

The Rev. Tommy Rush, pastor of First Baptist Church of Natchitoches, will officiate. Henderson will give the eulogy. Michael Rorex, retired professor of music at NSU, will perform some of Jerry’s favorite hymns, “How Great Thou Art” and “It Is Well With My Soul.” The Rev. Steve McAlister, pastor of Westside Baptist Church of Natchitoches, will share scriptures of joy and comfort to close the service.

Jerry asked that this occasion be considered a time of celebration, not sorrow. In his final days, he marveled at having been blessed by such a long and joyful life filled with fun and laughter, and time spent with treasured family and friends.

The family expresses its deep appreciation to Dr. Phillip Cole, Dr. Andrew Werner, to Natchitoches Regional Medical Center CEO Kirk Soileau, Dr. Otis Barnum, Dr. John Hogg and the NRMC staff, Dr. Pouya Mafi, the Seventh Floor Critical Care Unit nurses and personnel at Shreveport’s Willis-Knighton Pierremont hospital and staff at The Hospice of Natchitoches, for their compassionate, high-caliber care.

For anyone considering a memorial gift, the family suggests contributions to the Jerry and Regina Pierce Endowed Scholarship for NSU Lady Demon Tennis through NSU Athletics; the Pierce-Bruce Scholarship in Education through the NSU Foundation; an In Memoriam gift to the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation; or a contribution to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

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I know I have already touched on my love/hate relationship with nighttime. I say love/hate because I always look forward to laying down at the end of a long day, but sometimes it is not always so relaxing. 

On the bright side, I seem to uncover some of my greatest ideas when I am in between periods of rest. You know, when you are kind of asleep, but not completely. I usually sleep with a pen and paper beside my bed, so I can jot those down, otherwise once I do reach that good R.E.M. sleep and wake up the next morning, those ideas are nowhere to be found.  

During the dark hours, is also a time where I will play back scenarios that happened during the day or perhaps weeks before. Last night, I found myself playing back an occurrence that happened many months ago, but first let me touch on why this particular case was brought back to the forefront of my mind.  

Halloween night, whilst trick-or-treating with my family in our neighborhood I was walking my little minions around (they were actual minions from Despicable Me). As we were leaving one house and going to another, we were talking about their costumes and how I didn’t dress up this year. 

Ashton said to me, “We are all minions, but you’re just a mom.” 

I looked at my husband and said, “Yea, I am JUST a mom.” We both laughed and carried on collecting our candy.  

I have thought about that comment and even though I know she meant absolutely nothing by it, it reminded me of the scenario I mentioned earlier. The one keeping me up last night. Like I said, this was many months ago, during a routine doctor’s visit. 

I am sure most moms can relate to this. We sometimes put ourselves, our needs and definitely our wants on the back burner. It just happens while you are carrying on day to day, making sure everyone else’s needs are met and before you know it, it has been two years since you have been to the dentist for a cleaning or in this case a regular check-up with my primary care physician.  

When updating my paperwork, the nurse asked me about my occupation and I replied, “I am just a mom.” She went on typing away and never even gave it a second thought. 

I certainly have. I have given it a second, third, fourth and fifth thought.  

I have given this same answer to anyone that would ask over the last few years that I was staying at home with my girls, numerous times in front of them.  

“Oh, I am just a mom.”

When Ashton said this while trick-or-treating the other night, it did not bother me. I thought it was cute and funny and to her I probably am just a mom. So, why did it keep me up last night? Why did it bring me back to sitting in that doctor’s office months ago? 

It was probably because of the wave of emotions that hit me every time the words left my lips.

“I am JUST a mom.” 

Sometimes, I felt insignificant. My days were spent being a homemaker and I did not feel like I had a life outside of that. Every day was the same. Wake up, take a bath, maybe put real clothes on, get the kids dressed and fed, then feed them again at lunch, clean a little bit, go for a walk, then start preparing supper. Every single day. I had no life outside of being a mother. I did not feel like I was contributing in any way to society just because I did not have a “real” job.  

Then, here comes the guilt for feeling that way. Why do I feel like I should be doing more? Why do I feel like working a “real” job equals significance? Why do I feel like I should be more than just a mom? Why can’t I be happy and appreciate this chance that not every mom gets to have by staying at home with their children? 

I now know it was because my perspective on motherhood was slightly skewed. I did not see the value I was bringing to my family. That the job I had was indeed an especially important one. I did not need to be a brain surgeon, politician, lawyer, or an inventor to be significant or to play a key role in society.  

I was reminded of a quote by Andy Stanley, “Your greatest contribution to the kingdom of God may not be something you do, but someone you raise.” 

Just wow! If I just looked at it from an eternal standpoint, how could I ever feel insignificant or that my job was not important? I was doing God’s work. I was raising children of God and I was contributing to His kingdom by doing so.  

So, I am not JUST a mom, and I am THE mom. 

I am the mom that God hand-picked to raise these girls and I thank Him every day for choosing me. My eyes fill with tears every time I think about it even as I am writing this now, my heart is overwhelmed with joy and gratitude.  

Being a mother is a reflection of God’s love. Mothers are the peacemakers, they make sacrifices, their love surpasses all boundaries with no conditions, and they would lay down their lives for their children without hesitation just as Jesus Christ did for us. 

I now know full-heartedly no worldly job I ever have while I am on this Earth could ever be as significant as the job of being a mother.  

(Paige Nash is THE mom and a digital journalist for the Webster Parish Journal.)

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By Tina Montgomery

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen for the Village of Dixie Inn unanimously approved hiring a new police officer during the November 8 monthly meeting.

Officer Zane Crittenden, who presently works for the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Department, was introduced to the Board by Police Chief James Edwards. 

“He’s the best of the ones that applied. He seems perfectly fit for us and would be a good asset for the police department,” Edwards said.

Edwards said Crittenden would start November 23 after giving notice to the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Department. While waiting to attend the police academy in January, Crittenden will do ride-alongs with the other officers and work shifts with them for on the job training. Edwards proposed a starting pay of $14.50/hour for Crittenden, to be raised to $15/hour upon completion of the police academy training. The Board approved his hiring and pay rate with a unanimous vote.

In further police department business, Edwards presented an option for the purchase of a new police vehicle. The department’s original plan was to purchase a Ford pickup truck but Edwards was informed by the Ford dealership that the trucks would no longer be available. Edwards said a Ford SUV Interceptor could be purchased instead and would have all the necessary options needed for the police department, lacking only the truck bed space. The SUV could be available for delivery by spring but that would fall into the Village’s current fiscal year’s budget.

In previous meetings the Board agreed to make the vehicle purchase out of next year’s budget. Edwards said the SUV could be ordered with a priority code placed on the purchase order to make delivery available later next year so the cost would be within the next fiscal year’s budget. Edwards further stated that the cost for the SUV would be less than the projected cost for the pickup truck saving the Village about $8,000. The SUV Interceptor purchase would add another new vehicle to the department, giving them 3 new much needed units. The Board voted to table the SUV purchase for now so they could get more information about the time frame it would need to be ordered and delivered.

Edwards also reported that the police department received over 30 lbs. of medication on the October 29 Drug Take Back Day that was then turned over to the DEA for destruction. He also showed the Board a body armor vest donated by the US Deputy Sheriff’s Association. The body armor is made for active rifle shooters and is designed to be worn over an officer’s regular body armor as needed. Edwards said he found information about the body armor and made a request to the Association which donates equipment to small town police departments. Three vests were given to the Village police department and are valued at about $1200 each. 

Edwards said, “We’re lucky to have them. They also have other stuff but you can only make one request a year. So, next year I’ll reach out to them to see what else we can get.” 

Wrapping up the police department report, Edwards said he was able to save money on the radar unit that had been approved for purchase by getting a refurbished unit with a warranty. The refurbished unit was $1,200; a new radar unit would have been $,2400.

Mayor Donna Hoffoss presented a couple of grant opportunities from Keep Louisiana Beautiful. The first was a grant application for trash receptacles. The grant would provide up to 10 trash receptacles. 

Hoffoss told the Board, “I don’t really think we need that many. I’m thinking only 5. Two at each park and one here at the office.” 

The receptacles would be given through the grant at no cost to the Village. The Aldermen and Mayor discussed the different types of receptacles they could order. The Board approved the Mayor’s request to look into getting the receptacles.

Hoffoss said there was also a grant to pay for a welcome sign coming into Dixie Inn with the provision that any plants placed around the sign were native to Louisiana.  Aldermen Judy McKenzie and Lance Milligan agreed that a nice welcome sign is something they have long wanted to have for Dixie Inn. 

Former mayor Kay Hallmark-Stratton, who was attending as a member of the public, informed the Board that a previous administration had looked into getting a welcome sign but efforts were thwarted by the DOT’s requirement for the sign to be located out of the highway department’s right of way and maintenance around the sign. 

“We looked into it and the only place that was flat, where you could build something, was across the road at the Brown property,” Hallmark-Stratton said. 

That location would be on private property and the Village would have to potentially enter into a lease agreement with the owner to have the sign there. Several locations were discussed among the Mayor, Aldermen and Hallmark-Stratton but none seemed like suitable or feasible locations. Further issues were mentioned by Hallmark-Stratton about the type of sign that DOT would allow and maintenance around the sign.  The Board agreed to table this until the next meeting to get more information about potential locations for the sign.

The next regular session for the Board of Aldermen is scheduled for December 13 and is open to the public.

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If you’re needing to make an entrance at Thanksgiving with THE dish, do it with this one! Fresh Rosemary makes the difference here. I could have eaten every single sliced piece of this by myself. With no regrets. My love for brie knows no bounds.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf Hawaiian bread
• 1 stick melted butter
• 2 teaspoons freshly chopped rosemary
• Kosher salt
• Pepper
• 1 (8 ounce) wheel of Brie, cut into strips
• 1 can whole berry cranberry sauce

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Using a serrated knife, crosshatch bread, slicing every 1” in both directions but not all the way to the bottom.  

Whisk butter and seasonings.  Brush on top of bread and inside of slices.  

Stuff each opening with Brie and cranberry sauce.  Wrap completely in foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Fresh rosemary makes all the difference here!

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

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A Cotton Valley woman who came to Minden to shop is in jail for allegedly trying to leave a store without paying for some of her items.

Crystal Maness, 38, of the 100 block of Curtis Dr., was arrested by Minden Police Tuesday afternoon. She is charged with theft by shoplifting, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and a fugitive from Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Chief Steve Cropper said Sgt. Jason Smith was dispatched to a Sibley Road location where the store owner identified Maness.

“The owner said Maness came in the store and stayed for a long time, gathering some items for purchase,” said the chief. “When the clerk asked if that was all she was purchasing, Maness said yes. But she had with her a large black purse which contained a camouflage deer camera, wallet and several clothing items, all from that store.”

Maness reportedly did not remove any of those items when she paid for her purchases.

“The clerk became suspicious and sent a group text to another clerk and the store owner,” Cropper said. “The owner met them at the register where they emptied the purse – which came from the store – and confirmed the items inside of it.”

When the owner told Maness she was calling police, Maness reportedly became “agitated” and offered to pay for the items.

According to the report, Maness would not admit to intentionally trying to leave the store with the items.

“Lt. McClaran and Ofc. Miller arrived on scene and Maness stated she left her purse in the truck she came in,” Cropper said. “Inside the truck, in Maness’ purse, Lt. McClaran located less than 1 gram of methamphetamine, two glass pipes, rolling papers and a glass container.”

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.

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By Jessica Gorman

This week, I am sharing the history of schools in Heflin taken from “History of Webster Parish Schools” compiled by Ardis Cawthon, Mrs. J. D. Brown, and Yvonne Rogers in April 1935.

“Some distance from what was to be the Heflin town site, an old log school house, commonly called ‘Scrouge Out’, was built during the Sixties. In 1874 Mr. Pearce, then the holder of the land, decided to have a school built closer by so his two daughters could be educated. With his leadership and the cooperation of the neighborhood, a one-room log school house was erected. Adolphus W. Talton came from Fellowship community to be the first teacher in the new school house, which had been christened the ‘Pearce School House’. 

The teachers’ salary at this period consisted of $2.00 a month, per student, paid by the parents at the beginning of each month. Eleven students were required before the teacher was allowed to hold classes. The course of study consisted of reading, spelling, arithmetic, geography, history, grammar, and botany. Pupils were classified according to the ‘reader’ in which they were studying. Some early teachers in the school were Anna Calhoun of Vienna, Liza Noles of Fellowship, and J. S. Bacon of Fellowship. Mr. Delaney, a teacher in the school during the early nineties left a fire in the mud fire place one evening, and the next morning when he returned, he found the building in ashes. Mr. Pearce and the community immediately built another log house on the same site.

As the years passed the community became more thickly settled, and the people in 1895, deciding that the little log school was not large enough, undertook the building of a new school house. Mr. Pearce bought the lumber. He was aided by a few people who felt that they could contribute money. The people who were not able to give money helped in the construction of the house. Mr. Claude Almand was the first teacher in the school. He was followed by Mr. Joe Reeves and a Miss Boyd. The little wooden school house was used twelve years. In 1907 a three room structure was built to replace it. Classification by grades was begun. Eight grades were taught by four teachers for seven months each year until 1918.

In 1918 two other schools, Adams and Andrew’s Chapel, both a short distance from Heflin, were combined with the Heflin School, which was at this time declared a high school. Another room was added to the old three room building and in this building the grade school was taught. The high school held its classes in the old Booth home, and in the Woodman Hall. The children were carried back and forth by means of two wagons and a Model ‘T’ truck.

The members of the first graduating class from this school received their diplomas in 1922, the exercises being held in the Heflin Baptist Church. The graduates were Guy Harkness, Gertrude Barnette, Earl Heflin, and Fred Harkness.

When school opened the next year preparations were being made for a new building. In March 1923 the grammar school and high school came into the new two story brick building, which cost $55,000. Mr. C. L. Coussons was principal at the time. He was followed by Mr. G. E. Jones. Mr. B. L. Bolen held the principalship for two years. In the fall of 1932 Mr. K. J. Miles became principal.

The average number of graduates since the completion of the building has been eight. The smallest number graduating at any time was five and the largest number fourteen.

In the year, 1930-1931, the small school library was converted into a public library when Mrs. B. L. Bolen was made librarian.

In 1934 electric lights and irons were installed in the Home Economics department.

The extra-curricular activities from time to time have been; athletics, oratorical training, Home Economics clubs, 4-H Clubs, etc.”

In an effort to compile and share more history from the communities throughout Webster Parish, we ask that if you have information, documents, or pictures to share, please contact us at the museum. It is our hope to one day have exhibits to tell the stories of each of these communities. 

This column is intended to share snippets of Webster Parish history. Please direct any questions or suggestions to dorcheatmuseum@yahoo.com or visit us at the museum. 

(Jessica Gorman is the Assistant Director and Archivist for the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum in Minden and is an avid genealogist.)

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A south Louisiana man who stole a vehicle locally won’t be charged for that crime, but instead for two others.

Rashaun Richards, 19, of the 200 block of Pecan Orchard Rd., Lafayette, was arrested by Minden Police Sunday and charged with illegal use of a weapon and discharging a firearm inside the city limits.

Chief Steve Cropper said Ofc. Christopher Cayer was dispatched to a local towing company in reference to unauthorized use of a vehicle.

“When the officer arrived at the business, he talked with a worker who advised he towed a dark gray 2018 Nissan Sentra per Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office earlier in the day,” said the chief. “He said that upon his arrival to work, he discovered the vehicle storage gate had been rammed and severely damaged and the Nissan Sentra was missing.”

Cropper said as the scene was investigated, police discovered five 9MM shell casings on the inside of the gate. The lock had reportedly been shot, and there was a single bullet hole in the building.

“The owner arrived on the scene to review the security footage, which showed a black Challenger with racing stripes pulling into the parking lot,” Cropper said. “A black male wearing dark clothing exited the vehicle, jumped the storage fence and retrieved the Nissan.”

The chief said the male could be seen on footage producing a firearm and shooting the lock. After failing to shoot off the lock, the male rammed the gate and fled the scene, causing severe damage to the front of the vehicle.

“The listed owner of the vehicle arrived on scene and told officers that the male is his godson, Richards,” Cropper said. “He was unaware Richards had removed the vehicle and refused to press charges.”

Richards reportedly returned to the scene, wearing the same clothing as in the security footage. He was arrested on the above charges.

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.

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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. 7

Gabrielle Armanya Greene, 19, of Magnolia, Ark., was arrested by Cullen Police for criminal trespass, violation of protective order, simple criminal damage to property.

Troy Leroy Courtney Jr., 24, of the 100 block of Main St., Sarepta, was arrested by Springhill Police for possession of methamphetamine and synthetic marijuana.

Nov. 8

Allison Grace Warren, 20, of DeRidder, was arrested by WPSO as a fugitive from Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Nov. 9

Shaina Lewis, 26, of Sarepta, was arrested by WPSO for burglary and felony theft.

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.

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The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of Nov. 2:

Nov. 2

Discover Bank vs. Herbert Taylor Jr., suit on note

Derrick Grigsby vs. Darlene Grigsby, divorce

Nov. 3

State of Louisiana vs. Emilio Rodriguez, forfeiture

Bridgette L. Williams vs. Melvin G. Slack Jr., protective order

Nov. 4

Capital One vs. Andrew J. Bell, suit on note

Nov. 7

Nicole Oglee vs. Williams House, damages

Gateway Mortgage Group vs. Kinedia Brown, executory process

21st Mortgage Corporation vs. Amber S. Taylor, executory process

Cavalry SPV LLS as assignee of Citibank vs. Nancy Kalane Norton, monies due.

Nov. 9

B1 Bank vs. DH Cooksey Properties, executory process

Marques Ryan vs. Lauren Neff, custody

University of Louisiana at Monroe vs. Raven A. Lee, judgment executory & garnishment

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Nov. 12

10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Mission Adoption Makers Craft Fair, Silent Auction, Bake Sale and Lunch at First Baptist Church Family Life Center, Minden. ALL  proceeds go to CASA and a family that is beginning the adoption process. Homemade craft items, jellies & canned goods, Christmas items, candles, and much more, baked goods and frozen casseroles, silent auction items and hot dog lunch or jambalaya lunch, drinks and popcorn.

Nov. 15

6 until 8 p.m. Junior High Fall Social, Lakeside Jr./Sr. High School.

Nov. 16

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Council on Aging is sponsoring another On-on-One Medicare meeting. Call for an appointment. 318-371-3056.

Nov. 19

9 a.m. Poker Run Registration. See www.dorcheatmuseum.com for info or call 318-377-3002.

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 3rd 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.

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Jerry Valley Guillot

Sept. 2. 1948 – Nov. 4, 2022

Visitation: 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 11, 2022 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City, La.

Funeral service: Noon, following visitation

Jerry David Baker

Dec 28, 1954 – Nov. 6, 2022

Visitation: 10 a.m. until service time, Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Dr., Shreveport, La.

Funeral service: Noon, following visitation

Burial: Providence Baptist Church Cemetery, Shreveport, 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.)

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By Bonnie Culverhouse & Paige Nash

Webster Parish has made its wishes known with the 2022 elections, many of which will not require a runoff. To avoid a runoff requires 50 percent plus one vote.

Minden’s new mayor is Nick Cox. With 18 of 18 precincts reporting, Cox received 2,121 votes or 53 percent, which means there will not be a runoff with contenders. Terika “Reek” Walker came in behind him at 1,534 votes or 38 percent, while Billy Mills garnered 362 votes or 9 percent.

Cox said his campaign slogan was “Moving Forward Together.”

“Tonight’s election results prove that all across our community, that message resonated with our fellow citizens,” Cox said. “I’m humbled by the support from our residents. Thank you, and I look forward to Minden’s future.”

Minden’s new police chief is Jared McIver with 2,189 votes or 56 percent of the vote to Larry Morris’ 1,701 votes or 44 percent.

McIver said he is feeling a sense of gratitude and humbleness at the same time.

“I am thankful to God, my family and friends who worked hard in this election,” he said. “I want to thank Larry Morris for running a good campaign. My best wishes to him and his family in the future.”

McIver also  congratulated all the other candidates that won last night and sent best wishes to those that will be in run offs.

“Our work now begins,” he added. “The citizens of Minden believed in our message and I want to put that message into action. It won’t be an over night fix, but it is fixable and we will work diligently to ensure folks feel safe.”

With 100 percent of the precincts in, the rest of the elections are as follows. • Denotes winner, * Denotes runoff.

Webster Parish School Board – District 2:

Terrell Mendenhall – 289 or 39 percent

• Debbie W. Thomas – 452 or 61 percent

Webster Parish School Board – Dist. 4:

• Jonathan “Goose” Guthrie – 724 or 64 percent

Jeri “JJ” O’Neal – 406 or 36 percent

Webster Parish School Board – Dist. 6:

Fred Evans – 446 or 37 percent

• Jana Watson – 762 or 63 percent

Webster Parish School Board – Dist. 8:

• Glenda Sherrill Broughton – 645 votes or 64 percent

Phillip Michael Smart – 357 or 36 percent

Springhill voters will go back to the polls for their mayoral election. There will be a runoff between Hearnsberger and Huddleston.

Mayor – City of Springhill:

Courtney Allen – 260 or 18 percent

* Ronnie Hearnsberger – 494 or 34 percent

* Ray Huddleston – 682 or 47 percent

Mayor – Village of Doyline:

Gary T. Carter – 97 or 44 percent

• Crystal “Christie” Gates – 125 or 56 percent

Alderman – Dist. 1 Springhill:

• D. Nicole Frazier – 229 or 69 percent

Danyell Gipson – 103 or 31 percent

Alderman – Dist. 2 Springhill:

“Johnny” Craig – 51 or 34 percent

• Dennis Smith – 99 or 66 percent

Aldermen – Dist. 3 Springhill:

Patsy Leonard – 52 or 21 percent

Debra Rester – 55 or 22 percent

• Stacey Willard – 144 or 57 percent

With a two-vote margin, votes for Dist. 4 Alderman in Springhill will have to be recounted. At this time, the unofficial vote goes to “Mike” Whitlock

Alderman – Dist. 4 Springhill:

“Alex” Edwards – 142 or 50 percent

• ”Mike” Whitlock – 144 or 50 percent

Alderman – Dist. 5 Springhill

• Derek Melancon – 218 or 60 percent

Brandy White – 147 or 40 percent

Aldermen – Village of Dixie Inn:

Anthony Crittenden – 7 or 18 percent

• ”Nell” Finlay – 32 or 82 percent

There will be a runoff in Dist. A Minden City Council between incumbent Wayne Edwards and Carlton “Buddy” Myles

Councilman – Dist. A, Minden:

* Wayne Edwards – 336 or 47 percent

Darrell Morris – 85 or 12 percent

* Carlton “Buddy” Myles – 297 or 41 percent

Unless official totals differ, Levon “Charlie” Thomas is the new Dist. B Minden City Council by 6 votes.

 Councilman – Dist. B Minden:

Joey Frye – 245 or 39 percent

Damien Kemp – 68 or 11 percent

• Levon “Charlie” Thomas – 319 or 50 percent

District C voters will be heading back to the polls in December to choose between incumbent Vincen Bradford and Latasha Anderson Mitchell.

Councilman – Dist. C Minden:

* Vincen “Cheese” Bradford – 279 or 46 percent

Maretta Gage – 79 or 13 percent

Javelin Lashundria Hardy – 100 or 16 percent

* Latasha Anderson Mitchell – 153 or 25 percent

Incumbent Michael Roy will keep the District D council seat

Councilman – Dist. D Minden:

Habacu Morales – 205 or 27 percent

• Michael Roy – 408 or 53 percent

LaKeyla Jacob Williams – 157 or 20 percent

District E has a new city councilman, with Andy Pendergrass taking the majority of the votes.

Councilman  Dist. E, City of Minden:

Thomas Adams Jr. – 308 or 26 percent

Michael Fluhr – 93 or 8 percent

• “Andy Pendergrass – 781 or 66 percent

U.S. Senate John Kennedy carried Webster Parish with 8,188 votes or 68 percent of the vote. With 60 of 64 parishes in, Kennedy led by 65 percent and is on course to sail back into office without a runoff.

All results are unofficial at this time.

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NATCHITOCHES – Jerry Pierce, who served over 57 years on staff at Northwestern State University and as vice president of External Affairs since 1990, died Tuesday, Nov. 8 after a brief illness.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

Pierce’s impact at the university, in the community and around the state was profound, not only as an administrator, but as a writer, humorist, ambassador, fund raiser and mentor to personnel at all levels of administration, including nine NSU presidents.

“Mr. Pierce has been part of the fabric of this institution since the mid-60s and served under several presidents with integrity and class.  He will be irreplaceable,” said NSU President Dr. Marcus Jones. “I consider him a friend and a mentor who has always been there to provide sage advice.”

“Words cannot express the magnitude of the impact that Jerry Pierce had on Northwestern State University and on me professionally and personally,” said Dr. Chris Maggio, NSU’s immediate past president.  “He knew everyone on a statewide level and opened so many doors for me.   There was not a day in my presidency that Jerry and I didn’t talk. Whether it was in preparation for visits to the Capitol, meetings with donors or presentations to constituents, Jerry was there for me with research done, briefings prepared and communication tips provided.  He was such an effective communicator.”  

“Jerry Pierce is the greatest story-teller I have ever known,” said Dr. Jim Henderson, president of the University of Louisiana System and former NSU president.  “All of us in the Northwestern State family should be grateful that he dedicated that peerless talent to serving our alma mater for nearly 60 years.  His loss leaves a void that will never be filled, but his legacy will never be forgotten.”

A graduate of Springhill High School, Pierce was recruited to Northwestern in 1957 as a football trainer and was a four-year letterman in that position. As a student, he was an N Club officer and sports editor of the university newspaper. He joined the staff of The Times-Picayune in New Orleans after receiving his journalism degree in 1961 and became executive sports editor at age 24.

Pierce returned to Northwestern in 1965 as Sports Information Director.  He later served as News Bureau director and assistant to the president before he was named vice president of External Affairs, overseeing NSU Athletics, NSU Foundation and Alumni Affairs, News Bureau/Media Relations, Sports Information, the Wellness Recreation and Activities Center and the NSU Recreation Complex.  He worked for years with legislators and other elected officials as the university’s governmental affairs representative, served as institutional representative to the NCAA and Southland Conference and was a former president of the conference.  He co-chaired Northwestern’s Centennial celebration and 125th anniversary activities.  Pierce represented NSU as a speaker and master of ceremonies at hundreds of events across the state for decades and as host or guest on numerous radio and television shows and special broadcasts.   

Pierce brought the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame to Natchitoches in 1972 and directed the program for nearly 20 years.  During that time, he was named one of the 20 “Most Influential People in Sports in Louisiana” by The Times-Picayune.  He played a leading role in establishing the Long Purple Line, NSU’s alumni hall of distinction, and the NSU Athletic N Club Hall of Fame and was a recent inductee into both entities. Pierce received numerous journalism awards and honors for other civic, social and professional activities. 

In addition to writing and editing several decades’ worth of news releases and publications at NSU, has also wrote thousands of stories and articles of all kinds for Louisiana newspapers and statewide publications.  Pierce received numerous Louisiana Press Association awards for general interest columns, features, sports columns, editorials and was recognized by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association and College Sports Information Directors of America for news stories and sports publications.

Among his many other projects, Pierce was author of a book of columns published by the Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives and wrote the text for the 200-page coffee table book “Northwestern at 125” commemorating NSU’s 125th anniversary.  He was Northwestern’s liaison for the filming of “Steel Magnolias” and “The Man in the Moon” and was co-editor of “Steel Magnolias Scrapbook” on the filming of the movie in Natchitoches.

Other professional recognition includes 50-year membership awards from both the Louisiana Press Association and Council for Advancement and Support of Education and membership of Blue Key National Honor Society. He was awarded lifetime membership in the Louisiana Sports Writers Association and was the first recipient of the organization’s Mac Russo Award for contributions to the ideals and progress of the organization.

Pierce was extensively involved in civic activities in Natchitoches through the years. Among his honors and recognitions, he was recipient of Natchitoches Mayor’s Award for Community Service, American Legion Natchitoches Parish Man of the Year, Natchitoches Parish Chamber of Commerce President’s Award; City of Natchitoches Achievement Appreciation Award, Lieutenant Governor’s  Louisiana Ambassador Award, member of Chamber of Commerce first Ambassadors’ Club, finalist for Chamber of Commerce Natchitoches Parish Man of Year; Kiwanis Club member and officer; charter member of the Mystic Krewe de St. Denis; member of The Agitators social organization; Dignitaries and Publicity Committee of Natchitoches Christmas Festival and member of First Baptist Church.  He served as coach and counselor for youth sports programs and on budget, publicity and publications committees.  He was also an avid tennis player and was a member of USTA teams that won more than a dozen state championships, five regional titles and a national championship.

Pierce provided substantial financial support to the university and was recognized for more than 20 consecutive years of contributions to the NSU Foundation.  He and his wife Regina established endowed scholarships at the university in athletics and academics.

In addition to Regina, Pierce is survived by two sons, a daughter, nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren.  

 

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Keeping up with the numbers could be much easier for the Webster Parish School Board’s finance department after a Monday vote to allocate just over $440,000 for a new accounting software system.

School Board members voted unanimously to approve a recommendation for the purchase of Tyler Technologies Munis software system with Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) from the U.S. Dept. of Education as the funding source.

“This is a software system that has so many functions to help us,” school board Chief Financial Officer Crevonne Odom told board members. 

Odom said many features of the new system would help end redundancy and save time by combining activities that have been entered individually. With the new system, balances of contract can be initiated, sick leave documentation will automatically be rolled over without manual entries and general ledger entries can be automatically generated.

“We can generate reports on trends for multiple years such as payroll, retirement, money in each maintenance fund in real time and it will allow employees to get into the system and check their records…so many areas that will increase efficiency,” she said.

Odom said the Tyler Technologies system was selected after a request for proposal was issued earlier this year.

During his monthly report, Superintendent Johnny Rowland asked board members to consider contracting with an outside agency to study system employees’ salaries after the removal of a pay freeze in 2017. Rowland said the study from an independent point of view will help determine whether employees whose salaries were frozen a number of years ago were impacted differently than those who were hired after the freeze was lifted.

If changes might be possible, Rowland said, the independent study would help determine who was affected and the cost of those adjustments.

A number of projects funded through various district maintenance funds and sales tax money also received approval during Monday’s meeting.

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