LaMa Animal Rescue of Webster Parish was honored this week with some special gifts from Ms. Katelin Breaux’s AG/FFA class at Bossier Parish School for Technology and Innovative Learning.  They applied for and were awarded a grant for the FFAS Mini Day of Service Grant.  With the money from the grant, they blessed four different rescues in the area with 25 gift bags for dogs and 25 for cats, to be used for the animals in foster care.  LaMa Animal Rescue from Springhill, was honored to be one of those four rescues in the community. 

The AG classes are for students from 8^th grade to 12^th at BPSTIL. Several of the students from Ms. Breaux’s class met a representative of LaMa Rescue in the school office to deliver the goodie bags. This is an inspiring and dynamic group of students leading the way to motivate others to give back to their community and make a difference where you can. 

The dogs and cats (and fosters) at LaMa, send our sincerest thanks and gratitude for the outstanding group of students at BPSTIL. 

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United Christian Assistance Program has the following needs:

Food: Canned fruit, green beans, powdered milk

Clothing: Men’s shoes (9 and up), men’s jeans/pants (waist 32 and 34), men’s socks and underwear

Household goods: towels, king and queen sheets

Toiletries: deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap

Thank you for supporting UCAP!

UCAP is open from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at 204 Miller Street, Minden, for food, utility and rent assistance. Clothing is dispersed on Wednesdays only.

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Send non-profit calendar events to wpjnewsla@gmail.com .

Registration is open for National Night Out parties. opens on Friday, September 22, 2023 and runs through 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023. Those interested in hosting block parties may register in person at Minden City Hall, over the phone by dialing (318) 377-2144, or online at http://www.mindenusa.com.

Sept. 28

5 p.m. Candidate Meet & Greet at Minden Community House.

6 p.m. Candidates give a brief 2-3 minute overview of their platform.

September 28 through 30, Oct. 1

 Minden High School 30th Class Reunion

Sept. 28 – 6 until 9 p.m. Meet and Greet, Under Dawgs Sports Grill, 605 Main St., Minden, La.

Sept. 29 – 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., Meet and Greet, Under Dawgs Sports Grill, 605 Main St., Minden, La.

Sept. 29 – 9 p.m. until 1 a.m., Kickback, Camp Minden, 100 Louisiana Boulevard, Minden, La.

Homecoming Parade TBA

Sept. 30 – 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Family Fun Day, Hot Wheels Skating Rink, 3000 Old Minden Rd., Bossier City, La.

Sept. 30 – 7 p.m. until 1 a.m., Still Rollin 30 Years Later, Camp Minden, 100 Louisiana Boulevard, Minden, La.

Oct.1 – Church Fellowship TBA

Youth Basketball registration begins and runs through December 1 at Minden Rec Center.

Oct. 5

1 p.m. Ribbon Cutting, Honey’s Hanger, 116 South Main St., Springhill.

Oct. 7

8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. “Day of Worship for Women, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Rd., Minden. Cost is $25 and space is limited.

Kathy Nelson with Speak It Ministries will be the speaker and Serena Gray will be leading worship. Register by contacting Janice Nelson at or 318-393-1990

or calling the church 318-377-4315. Childcare provided, lunch included.

10 a.m. until noon, free pet vaccines (no rabies). DHPP (dogs), FVRCP (cats), Springhill Civic Center, 101 Machen Dr., Springhill. Sponsored by LaMa Animal Rescue and Petco.

Oct. 12

6 p.m. Seeds Women’s Center annual Fundraising Banquet. Dinner at program. Minden Civic Center. For tickets, call 318-639-0907.

Oct. 13

4 p.m. Registration deadline for National Night Out parties to be held Oct. 17. Those interested in hosting block parties may register in-person at Minden City Hall, over the phone by dialing (318) 377-2144, or online at http://www.mindenusa.com.

Oct. 14

11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Minden Makers Fair. Accepting vendor applications, demonstrations and volunteers. https://www.mindenmakersfair.com/vendorregistration.

4 until 6 p.m. Witches’ Ride in downtown Minden. Tickets can be purchased online at the following link https://linktr.ee/witchesrideminden or in person at Red Blooms, Say Baby or Simply Chic in Bossier.  They are $45 per ticket. All money raised from ticket sales will benefit Miller Quarters Park, which will serve as the ride’s starting and ending point and will be the site for the block party set to follow the ride. A portion of money raised will also be donated to a non-profit organization called We’re Here, We Care. 

Oct. 17

5:30 p.m. Women of Courage, Minden Civic Center.

6 until 8 p.m. National Night Out parties.

Oct. 19

5:30 p.m. Men of Courage, Minden Civic Center.

Oct. 21

6 p.m. Monster-Mash BINGO Event. $25 admission for 10 games. Costume Contest, silent auction, raffles. Springhill Civic Center, 101 Machen Dr., Springhill. Proceeds go to LaMa Animal Rescue.

Oct. 24

6:30 p.m. 15 Under 40 Awards Gala, Minden Civic Center.

Oct. 26

4:30 p.m. Ghostly Gathering Trunk or Treat, Mack Memorial Library, Springhill, La.

Oct. 28

6 until 9 p.m. Minden Rec Annual Fall Festival.

Oct. 30

5 until 7 p.m. Glenbrook Fall Fest

5:30 p.m. Ghostly Gathering Trunk or Treat, Minden Branch, Webster Parish Libraries.

Nov. 4

10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Mission Baby Bazaar Craft/Bake Sale. First Baptist Church gym, Minden. Blessing families that are adopting/fostering children. Handmade crafts, silent auction, bake/casserole sale, hot dog or jambalaya lunch. All proceeds go to the children.

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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.

Sept. 19

Tamomthus Venzant of Heflin was arrested by the Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office for operating a vehicle with a suspended license/no license issued. 

Sept. 20

Donovan Montrell Mosley, 25, of the 300 block of Wilkinson St., Shreveport, was arrested in Webster Parish by LSP-G. He is charged as an out-of-state fugitive for felony theft, Dallas, Texas. He was taken into custody at mile marker 44, eastbound Interstate 20. His passenger was identified as a juvenile wanted for escaping a juvenile detention center. Both subjects were arrested without incident.

James Hayden Blythe, 29, of the 100 block of Solomon Loop, Dubberly, was arrested by WPSO as a fugitive from Bienville Parish. Bond is set at $100,000.

Dedric Frazier, 28, of the 800 block of East 4th St., Homer, La., was arrested by Springhill Police on a warrant for criminal neglect of family.

Ryan Eugene Merritt, 19, of the 5600 block of Buncombe Rd., Shreveport, was arrested by LSP-G on a warrant for felony theft through Dallas, Texas. He was arrested in Webster Parish at mile marker 44, I-20 eastbound.

Sept. 21

Kellion D’one Harris, 20, of the 500 block of Babb Circle, Minden, was arrested by WPSO for simple criminal damage to property.

Brooke Cannon, 53, of the 200 block of Residence St., Cotton Valley, was arrested by LSP-G at U.S. 371 southbound at Forest St., Webster Parish. Cannon has an active warrant through Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Zackary Doster, 37, of East Rd., Cullen, La., was arrested by Cullen Police on a warrant for aggravated flight. His bond is $45,000.

Emanuel D. Germany, 38, of W. Church St., Springhill, was arrested by Springhill Police and P&P for a parole violation (distribution of a Schedule 2 controlled dangerous substance), possession of a Schedule 2 controlled dangerous substance, possession of a legend drug and drug paraphernalia.

Jordan Lane Shepherd, 22, of the 1100 block of Yellow Pines, Minden, was arrested by MPD for second degree battery.

Noah Alexander Jacob, 18, of the 400 block of 6th St., SE, Springhill, was arrested by WPSO on two active warrants – unauthorized use of an access card as theft and unauthorized use of a moveable (motor vehicle).

James Blythe of Dubberly was arrested by the Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office for theft. (He is the one arrested in Webster last week as a fugitive.)

Sept. 22

Teadrien R. Burris, 25, of the 800 block of Peach St., Minden, was arrested by WPSO for contempt of court, sentence imposed to serve 45 days.

Sept. 23

Corey Matthew Ray, 52, of the 200 block of Horseshoe Loop, Doyline, was arrested by WPSO on 4 active failure to appear warrants – simple battery, careless operation/driving under suspension, racketeering and hit and run.

Amanda Nicole Jordan, 38, of the 100 block of Mitch Lane, Doyline, was arrested by WPSO for aggravated battery.

Junice J. Rogers, 30, of the 200 block of Hickory St., Minden, was arrested by LSP-G for driving while intoxication and careless operation of a motor vehicle.

Gabriel Ian Allen, 40, of the 15,000 block of N. Holly Hock, Gardendale, Texas, was arrested by LSP-G and Doyline Police for driving while intoxicated (second offense) and speeding (38 in a 25 mph zone).

Sept. 24

Jimmy Roy Cade, 48, of the 15,000 block of Hwy. 80, Minden, was arrested by Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Sept. 25

Amanda Kay Segraves, 36, of the 200 block of 1st St. Pinehill, Springhill, was arrested by Springhill Police for an active warrant.

Amber Michelle Howard, 37, of the 3100 block of Dorcheat Rd., Minden, was arrested for failure to appear in court on a Schedule 2 drug possession charge.

Kami Dodge, 33, of Gibsland, was arrested by Probation and Parole for a probation violation by testing positive for marijuana. Dodge is alleged to be five months’ pregnant.

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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Kevin W. Brack

May 25, 1956 – Sept. 23, 2023

Sarepta, La.

Services pending through Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Etta Jo New McCullough

July 5, 1937 – Sept. 16, 2023

Homer/Minden, La.

Reception/visitation: Following graveside service.

Graveside service: 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023, Mt. Mariah Church and Cemetery, 2 miles north of Arcadia on Highway 9.

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 Josh Beavers

On such a crisp early Fall night, it was quite ironic that Lakeside played with fire constantly for the duration.

Whether it was the fire off the feet of senior Jordan Case, who carried the ball some 30 times for more than 200 yards, or the fire that nearly burned from repeatedly fumbling the ball and barely recovering it, Lakeside ebbed and flowed its way to a narrow and thrilling victory over Block Friday night. The final score was 41-34. Lakeside is now 3-1 on the season and has won three games in a row.

Case was nearly unstoppable as the Warriors literally ran the same play over and over again for big gains nearly every time. The only difference was sometimes the play went slightly to the right and other times it went slightly to the left. All of them were up the middle, and all of them showed just how dominate the Lakeside offensive line was against the woeful Block defense.

Offensive linemen never get any credit, so right here I’m going to name them and give the kudos for Jordan’s big night largely to them. They are Willie Jenkins, Caleb Barber, Jamarcus Tellis, Bryce Parker, Eli Campbell, and Cage Williams.

Block knew what was coming each play – a Jordan Case run straight up the gut – but they could do nothing to stop it.

The Warriors scored first following a nice play by Tamarjah Ferrell on offense and then a Jordan Case interception on defense. After the INT, Jordan found the endzone (up the middle of course). Cage Williams made the point after, and Lakeside was up 7-0 at the 8:52 mark of the first quarter.

Block’s Corrin Collins got behind the Lakeside defense a few plays later for a 50-yard touchdown reception to make the score 8-7 for the visitors. Following a pretty Taron Riley kick return to midfield, Lakeside was unable to pick up a first and turned the ball over on downs.

Jamarion Evans had his name called for the first time of many on the next drive as he rushed the quarterback and allowed Willie Jenkins to force a fumble. Block recovered but had to punt.

Lakeside was moving the ball following the superb Block punt, but a cornerback stepped in front of a Brock Case screen pass to his receiver. The defender picked the ball out of the air and ran more than 70 yards for a Pick-6. The play gave Block a 14-7 lead at the 9:41 mark of quarter number two.

Jordan Case scored from 33 yards out when Lakeside got the ball back. The PAT failed but Lakeside was within a point at 14-13 with a little over eight minutes to play in the half.

Jeremiah Allen, Jamarion Evans, Willie Jenkins, and Caleb Barber made life miserable for Block on the next series. The visitors were forced to punt once more. Following three consecutive penalties – there was more laundry on the field in this game than laundry in the dirty clothes basket of a family of six – Lakeside fumbled again and Block recovered.

A Block touchdown was nullified by another penalty. Lakeside got the ball back and Kameron Grigsby, Jordan Case, and Taron Riley steadily picked up yards as the clock steadily ticked toward halftime.

Riley made a dynamic catch and huge spin move for his touchdown. Following breaking tackles and almost pirouetting into the endzone, Riley’s touchdown pushed Lakeside up to 21-14.

Evans (I’m telling you, Jamarion’s name was called A LOT) as well as Eli Santelices, Kentravion Miller, and Jalen Jackson made big defensive plays to keep Block from scoring. The half ended with the score 21-14.

Bryce Parker made a tackle for loss to start the second half which led to a Block punt. But it wouldn’t take long for penalties, combined with a Lakeside turnover, to give the visitors another chance. Block found the endzone at the 7:53 mark of quarter three. The score at that point was 21-20 with Lakeside still leading.

It was the Jordan Case show from that point on out. He carried the ball play after play. It was like an old Dallas Cowboys game when Emmitt Smith would take handoff after handoff, and the Boys’ offensive line would just beat down the defense.

That’s what happened here.

Case scored from 24 yards out with 3:57 to play in the third. The point after failed, but Lakeside now had a 27-20 lead.

Evans (there’s that name AGAIN) and Caleb Barber made defensive plays to force a punt. Case kept running up the middle, and Kameron Grigsby got into it as well (on the same play). Kam scored from 14 yards out with 22 seconds to go in the third. The score was 33-20.

Block just wouldn’t go away, though. Collins scored on a long touchdown which was nearly identical to his catch in the first quarter. Their 2-point attempt was good, and the score was 33-28 with 11:43 to go in the game.

Lakeside fumbled three times on the next drive but were able to recover all three. On fourth and two near the goal line, Brock Case kept the ball on a quarterback sneak for a touchdown. It was 41-28 with 7 minutes to play.

Block scored one more time to make the score 41-34, but they couldn’t pull even despite a Lakeside turnover very late in the game.

Eli Santelices made a big defensive play in the waning moments, and Caleb Barber broke up the final Block pass attempt of the game to force a turnover on downs.

The final seconds ticked away, and Lakeside earned its third consecutive win. The final was 41-34.

It’s homecoming next week for the Warriors. The opponent is Lincoln Prep. Game time is at 7 p.m., and the Homecoming court will be presented at halftime.

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Journal Staff

North Webster’s defense and special teams continued to be dominant and the offense continued to ride red-hot running back Braedon Robertson en route to a 28-6 victory over Richwood. 

The Knights (3-1) are now winners of three straight and 1-0 in district play. 

After a pair of offensive drives stalled out, Knights senior Avante Curry blocked a punt and returned it 20 yards for the games opening touchdown. 

After another quick stop by the North Webster defense, the Knights got back to work, moving down the field behind some tough running from Robertson, who cashed in with a beautiful 25-yard score featuring 3 broken tackles. 

The Knights third scoring drive got going with a 40-yard completion from quarterback Christian Whitlock to junior speedster J’Kobe Lawson getting the offense into Ram territory. Two Robertson runs later, North Webster led 21-0. 

The second half opened with Richwood going on their only scoring drive of the night, covering roughly 6 minutes of clock, before North Webster went on a long drive of their own, but came up empty on a short field goal. 

The Knights made things right, earning another defensive stop and going on their final scoring drive of the game, once again cashed in by Robertson from 6 yards out. 

The Knights defense got another excellent performance from do-it-all senior Xavier McGlothan who had an incredible interception and plenty of tackles. The rest of the Knights defense harassed Richwood all night, coming up with four sacks and three turnovers.

North Webster returns home next week for a huge homecoming matchup against Wossman. 

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By Travis Chapman

As the sun was setting below the tall pines of Haynesville, LA, Apache fans lined the parking lot of Red Franklin Memorial Stadium gazing at 17 Louisiana State Titles and 9 State Runner-Up pendants that line the wall of the stadium, but the Apache Pride Tribe showed up in force to route on the #6 Apaches as they trotted out on the field and received the opening kick-off from the #1 ranked and district rival, Haynesville Golden Tornado. 

Apaches’ offense started the game on the 35-yard line. First play from scrimmage, Apaches fumbled the ball and the Tornado recovered on the 41-yard line. And on 3rd down, the Tornado wing back took it through the 8 hole and scampered 30-yards to a Tornado touchdown. The Apaches trail 7-0 with 10:20 left in first. 

The Apaches offense came out showing 5 wide but short gains bringing up a 3rd and long, but confusion on offense forced them to use the Apaches’ 2nd time out. Sentell torched the Tornado defender and caused the defender to pull him down for a pass interference moving the chains for the Apaches. But the next play, Easton Sanders was intercepted at the Tornado 46 yard line. 

Tornado offense came out and threw a deep pass for another touchdown stretching the Tornado lead to 14-0 with 8:06 left in the first. 

The Apache offense came out strong and Landry Powell took the handoff for a huge gain of 20 giving the Apaches a new set of downs. He continued to push the ball down the field to the 2 yard line making it 1st and goal. On 2nd and goal, Landry Powell pushed through the hole that Jackson Lott opened for the first Apache touchdown! Easton Sanders kicked the PAT all the way to the #8 fairway of the Haynesville Country Club and the Apaches closed the gap but trailed 14-7 with 3:08 in first. 

The Tornado offense took over on the 49-yard line. The Apaches’ defense came out strong with Cade Vining shooting the gap pushing the Tornado backward for a 3-yard loss. The Tornado punted after a dropped pass, and the Apaches rushed the kicker again and took over on the Apache 46 with 1:31 left in the first quarter. 

The Apaches set out on the war path, and passed the football to TE Garrett Brown over the middle, moving the chains. The first quarter ended with the Apaches primed for another score, but trailing the Tornado 14-7. 

Second quarter opened with #1 Chase Sentell running through the 3-hole for another Apache first down. But a few miscues getting the play call in brought up a big 4th down and a par 3. Garrett Brown beat the defense and the defender chose to tackle Brown before the pass got there instead of giving up the touchdown, but the penalty wasn’t enough to get a new set of downs and the Apaches turned it over on downs. 

The Tornado offense took over on the 10-yard line and on 3rd and short a quick pass to the world class Tornado speedster blasted the ball 85 yards down the sideline for another Tornado touchdown. The Tornado widened the lead 21-7 with 8:41 left in half. 

On the ensuing kickoff, Sentell got a great return to the 40 yard line. Landry Powell began driving it down the field behind the great offensive line blocking. But the Apaches were forced to punt.  Confusion on the Apache offense continued to force miscues and time management problems killed the momentum the Apaches offense gained. 

The Haynesville Tornado took the field and Ryan Reagan made a great tackle for a short gain for the Tornado but the Apaches’ defense stood strong and forced a punt. 

Apaches took over in the shadow of their own end zone, and 2 quick incompletions brought up 3rd and 10. But a busted trick play forced a punt from the Apache end zone. 

Tornado take over at the Apache 27, with all the momentum. Cade Vining blew through the gap again tackling for a loss and bringing up a 4th down. The Apaches missed the tackle in the backfield and the QB took it down to the 1-yard line. The very next play the APACHE DEFENSE FORCED A FUMBLE RECOVERED BY LANDRY POWELL IN THE END ZONE! The Apache Tribe all stood on their feet to cheer the strong defensive turnover.

The Apache offense took over on the 20-yard line with 2:09 left in first half. Garrett Brown made a big-time catch over the middle that moved the chains, but the offensive play calling still remained in la-la land that caused a poorly executed punt giving the Tornado the ball on the Apache 15-yard line and the Tornado scored on the very next play extending the lead 28-7 that closed out the first half.

The second half started off with the Golden Tornado set to receive the kick-off and took over in the Apache 45. The Tornado moved the ball down to the 37 yard line for a first down. The Apache defense stiffened up and forced a 4th down and 5 by the gang tackling led by Cade Vining. Big Daivari Jackson made a critical tackle to turn over the ball on downs giving the Apaches momentum at the 29-yard line with 8:10 left in 3rd quarter. 

Apaches started moving the ball and the chains with pass completions by QB Easton Sanders to Jackson Waller. This set of decisive play calling opened the offense for star RB Chase Sentell to run it up the middle for a gain of 23 yards, putting the Apache War Party quickly into Tornado territory. Landry Powell followed the skilled blocking for a gashing gain of 17 yards and an Apache first down. But a pass from Sanders was intercepted as the officials swallowed their whistles while Sentell was tackled in the endzone before the ball arrived. 

The Tornado took over on the 20-yard line but that mean defense forced a quick punt from the Tornado offense. 

The Apache offense came out firing with big 9-yard gain by Seth Mangrum, followed by big 14-yard run by Landry Powell with a 15-yard facemask tacked on, and the Apaches were back deep in Tornado territory. The Apaches seemingly had a wide-open TD, but the dropped pass took the score off the board at the end of the 3rd quarter. The Apaches still trailed 28-7. 

The 4th quarter started with a HUGE fourth down conversion to Garrett Brown over the middle and gave the Apaches a new set of downs! The Apaches still had a hard time with organization and seemed stalled again in the red zone, but a perfectly executed trick play from the 22-yard line on 4th down resulted in a touchdown pass from Sanders to Jackson Waller tightening the margin, 28-14 with 9:45 left remaining in the contest. 

The Apache defense came out with their tails set on fire pushing the Tornado backward. That brought up a crucial 3rd and a cab ride. The Apaches defense played incredible and forced another Tornado punt. 

The Apaches needed to show some urgency on offense as they took over the ball on the 30, but another costly error by the Apaches offense gave the ball right back to the Tornado with inside of 8 minutes left in the contest. The Tornado ran 3 plays and threw a deep crossing route for another touchdown that stretched the Tornado lead, 34-14 with only 6:35 remaining in the game. 

The Apaches’ offense came back out throwing it 48 yards across the field to Sentell as he got completely smoked, yet again well before the ball arrives but the pass interference was not called, and Sentell had to sit out the next play. The Apaches still gave it all they had on the possession but a tipped ball over the middle was opportunistically intercepted on the Tornado 45-yard line with 5:48 remaining. 

The Apaches defense still came out showcasing heart and the never-quit attitude! Farnell blasted through the gap and made a huge tackle for loss!! But the Tornado advanced down the field and moved the chains that put the nail in the coffin for the Apaches. 

The Apaches fell to 3-1 to the Golden Tornado of Haynesville. The night didn’t go the Apaches’ way with several miscues, drops and turnovers, but they still fought hard as the clock struck zero. The Apaches played with heart and guts all night and showed a few weaknesses of the Golden Tornado but shot themselves in the foot by not capitalizing and scoring on 5 trips to the red zone. Even with the tough loss, the standings in the district rivalry still favor the Apaches, 2-1. 

Next week your Apache Tribe will travel to Arcadia to take the sting out of the Hornets at 7 p.m. Let’s keep the fan momentum rolling and show up and show out, for our dear Apache Tribe! Even if the hard fought loss….

ITS STILL A GREAT DAY TO BE AN APACHE!! 

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Journal Staff

Minden’s Crimson Tide ran into a stone wall in Stonewall Friday night, dropping a 51-0 decision on the road to last year’s state runner-up North Desoto in a District 1-4A conference game. 

North Desoto’s defense allowed the Tide into its territory only twice during the game with both of those intrusions coming in the first half when the Griffins were building a 28-0 lead behind the passing of sophomore quarterback Luke Delafield.

Delafield hit Landry Wyatt with a 27-yard score with 32 seconds left in the first quarter, then found Trysten Hopper on a six-yard TD toss with just four seconds remaining in the half. He finished the night with three scoring tosses, the last going 40 yards to Wyatt on the final play of the third quarter.

Other Griffin scores came on runs of 22 and six yards by Kenny Thomas, a 40-yard interception return from Kyle Remedes, and a Miller Warren 20-yard pass reception from backup QB Nick Turpen. A bad snap out of the endzone on a Tide punt attempt resulted in a safety.

With the loss, the Tide falls to 0-4 on the year while North DeSoto raises its record to 3-1. 

Next action for Minden comes next Friday when the Huntington Raiders come to W.W. Williams Stadium for the Tide’s Homecoming celebration. 

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By Lucas Owens

Webster Jr. High 8th grade team came out strong this week against Benton to remain undefeated on the season. They were clicking on all cylinders special teams, offense and defense. Benton received the ball first after Webster’s defense forced a punt. Jaden Johnson was able to break a few tackles and return the punt 60 yards for the Wolves’ first touchdown! After another strong defensive stance the wolves would get the ball at the 50 yard line. On the Wolves’ very first play from scrimmage, Jaden Johnson faked a hand-off to Lucas Owens Jr. and kept it for a 50 yard touchdown run. His second of the day! On Benton’s 3rd possession of the 1st quarter a 3rd down pass was intercepted by Bennet Speer and he took it 45 yards the other way for a pick six! The Wolves’ 3rd score of the 1st quarter! Webster scored on two 2-point conversions to make the score 22-0! 

The 2nd quarter was controlled by the defense. The defensive line Nekeya Harden, Javon Calloway, Holt Holliday and Braylon Ferrell applied pressure in the backfield all night and accumulated 5 sacks and forced 3 fumbles, only 1 of which was recovered by the Wolves. The Wolves’ linebackers Lucas Owens Jr, Bennet Speer, JaQuarion Martin and Marquan Miller were all over the field forcing 2 turnovers and allowing only 3 first downs the entire game. The Wolves’ secondary Markell Miller, Jaden Johnson, Abreon Curry and Malik Harrison only allowed 4 completed passes all game! Curry also caught a 30 yard touchdown pass from Johnson in the 2nd quarter to make the score 30-0 at halftime. 

The second half was a running clock, but the Wolves still managed to put up points. After forcing another turnover on downs Webster would score again on a 30 yard run by Marquan Miller. Benton was able to find the end zone on their next possession to make the score 38-8. On the ensuing kickoff Benton tried an onside kick. The kick was unsuccessful and fell right in the hands of Marquan Miller who would take it 50 yards for the Wolves’ final touchdown. The final score was 44-8. The 8th grade is 3-0 on the season. The 7th grade lost a close game to Benton 20-14, they are 1-2 on the season. For their next game, Webster will travel to Stonewall to play North Desoto Tuesday Sept 26. 

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By Travis Chapman

While most every red-blooded southerner craves the lights on Friday night, some of us get an extra taste of the game we love on Tuesday nights as well. This past Tuesday night brought in another battle in Apache Stadium as fans line Country Club Circle and the golf carts pile up on the hill under the live oaks. 

6 p.m. brought the start of the week 1 rematch between Glenbrook Little Apaches and Lakeside Little Warriors. Jackson Shipp and Hagan Hay represented as our team captains for the 3^rd and 4^th grade Apaches. The Apaches’ strong defense started the game off on the right foot with Corner, Tate Mandino, Hammering Hank Rowton and the big linebacker, Captain Powell all making tackles for loss that forced a punt by the Little Warriors. 

The high-powered Apache offense took the field with 5:43 left in the first quarter. QB Ryder Hollingsworth got things rolling by finding TE Warren Johnson with a 15-yard gain and a first down. Next Hank Rowton and Marshall Duck picked up 9 yards each running the football downfield that set up a 12-yard toss from Hollingsworth to Duck for the Apaches first touchdown of the night. After the 2 point try failed, the Apaches led the Warriors 6-0 with 1:55 in first quarter. 

The stifling defense of the Apaches stood strong backing the Warriors up yet again and forced a punt at the end of the first quarter with the Apaches holding the lead, 6-0. The offense came out looking to extend the lead over the Warriors with a big 3^rd down conversion by Hank Rowton as he juked the shoes off the defender that allowed him to pick up the first down. Ryder Hollingsworth continued to showcase his excellent passing abilities completing a 15-yard pass to Duck that setup a dime dropped in over the shoulder of Warren Johnson for yet another Hollingsworth passing touchdown. The 2 point try failed, but the Apache lead was extended 12-0 with 1:53 left in first half. 

Everett Tucker put the defense on his back and continued to push the Warriors’ attempts backward that brought up a 4^th down with buy-one-get-one air fare to convert, and the Apaches War Party swarmed the Warriors’ running back that closed the first half with the Apaches on top, 12-0. 

The Apaches’ offense started the 2^nd half with a huge run by slot back, Miles McCullough for a gain of 27-yards and an Apache first down. The next play the Warriors defense came up strong and recovered a fumble on the 45-yard line. The next play for the Apaches’ defense, “Big G”, Grayson Avery blew up 2 offensive lineman and a TE causing a busted play that allowed the OLB Hank Rowton to make the tackle in the backfield. Captain Powell and Everett Tucker continued to show their dominance as they forced the Warriors for another punt. 

The Apaches’ offense continued the onslaught, running behind great blocking down field to close out the 3^rd quarter with the Apaches lead still at 12-0. The start of the 4^th quarter saw Ryder Hollingsworth uncorking a 27-yard-deep ball that took the top off the defense and found Marshall Duck standing in the end zone all alone for another Apache touchdown widening the margin to 19-0 with 5:39 remaining. 

After the Apache defense forced another punt, the first play from scrimmage, Big G took the hand off from his QB and rumbled, bumbled, and broke four Warrior tackles as he channeled his inner Jerome Bettis and blazed in for a 50-yard touchdown! Captain Powell capped it off (if you will), with a 2-point conversion that made the score 26-0 with just 1:36 left in the game. The Warriors’ offense came out for one last effort to gain a score, but with pressure in the backfield from John O’Donnell and Waylon Chapman, the Warriors QB was intercepted by Tate Mandino and nearly returned for a touchdown as the clock expired. The 3^rd and 4^th grade Apaches won the contest by a score of 26-0 to improve to 4-0 on the season. The highlight of this game was the Apache defense as they did not allow a net gain of one single yard by the Warriors offense. Couple that with the stellar QB performance by Ryder Hollingsworth that threw for 3 touchdowns on the night, and you have a monster win by your Apaches! 

In the 5^th quarter the Little Warriors and Apaches got some good development in for the younger class as they try to learn the game of football. This quarter is so fun to watch as these kiddos get to showcase what they can do on the football field. The Little Warriors’ RB #7 broke it out on the end and outran everyone for a Warrior touchdown. But the Apache offense came out running the football as OT, Waylon Chapman made a big hole for RB, Miles McCullough to pick up 12 yards. WR Austin Ramsey showcased his blazing speed as he took a jet sweep for an Apache first down. Skyler Malone ran the ball great reversing field for a gain of 25 yards and the Apaches’ offense gathered rhythm, but the clock for the extra quarter expired. This group of boys will be a force to be reckoned with next year as they grow and gain more experience through this season with exceptional coaching by Nick Rowton and Jesse Smith. 

5^/6^th Grade 

The 5^th and 6^th grade offense started the contest following the 3^rd and 4^th grade game. They came out running the ball, but a few incompletions required the Apaches to punt to the Warriors. The Apache defense was not to be outdone, as Mason Burns stripped the ball from the running back that created a 4^th and manageable but the War Party held strong that turned the ball over on downs. 

The Apaches took over on offense at the Warrior 40-yard line and moved the ball methodically, and Max Scroggs broke a good run into the second level with one man to beat, but the giant Warrior linebacker, #40 throws Scroggs to the ground with just one hand, that ultimately forced the Apaches to punt. 

The Apache defense knew what needed to be done and they came out and stiffened up with great plays by Braxton Taylor and Brody Shockley in the backfield forcing yet another Warrior punt. 

With the first half winding down the Apaches offense stepped up big as they ran the ball with great blocking getting into the second level with every carry. QB Ryland Rainey handed it off to Max Scroggs and he made defenders miss and was tackled by the Warriors safety who took a great line and made a textbook tackle to save the touchdown. That long run set up the “Blonde Bullet” Brant Bridges as he ran the Tanglewood Streak blowing by the cornerback. The wildcat Max Scroggs hit the Blonde Bullet in the endzone for the first Apache touchdown of the night that gave the Apaches the lead, 6-0 at the half. 

The Apaches’ defense ran out to start the second half and the big man, Hayes Glasscock showed out making consecutive tackles in the backfield, followed up by CT Harris’ big stop on 3^rd down that forced a Warrior punt. 

The Apaches’ offense took over on the 46-yard line and ran the ball for 40-yards behind the shoulders of Mason Burns and Max Scroggs, setting up a goal to go effort for the Apaches. After the Warrirors’ defense proved to stiffen up, on 4^th and goal, Reace Payton hit the backside linebacker and RB, Max Scroggs struck pay-dirt skating into the endzone for another Apache touchdown that stretched the lead 12-0 in favor of the Tribe at the end of the third. 

On the ensuing possession, the defense’s swagger showed as they swayed back and forth hearing Mark Morrison’s “Return of the Mack”, (probably for the first time) fading over Apache Stadium that brought Braxton Taylor making a big stop in the back field. But the Warriors’ offense was not to be outdone as they moved the ball down the field for a new set of downs. The CT Harris and Max Scroggs tackling clinic continued backing up the Warriors to a 4^th down and a long par 5, and they forced a turnover on downs with just 2:00 minutes left in the game. The Apaches leaned on the Warrior defense and picked up a first down that sealed the game and the coveted victory formation for the 4^th week in a row. The Apaches took the week 1 rematch by a score of 12-0 over the cross-parish rival, Lakeside Warriors. 

Coach Jesse Smith gave the post-game speech getting the Apaches fired up and ready to put in work for the challenges ahead, but with an unsung hero of the night. Layton Raspberry played his tail off Tuesday night, blasting off the ball and facing a continuous double and triple team all night, putting them on their backsides for most of the contest. With that unsung performance, Layton rallied his War Party to their feet as the 71055 could hear them scream….

FAMILY ON ME, FAMILY ON THREE!! ONE. TWO. THREE.FAMILY!!!

Be sure to come out to Apache Stadium next Tuesday night at 6 p.m. as both the Apaches’ teams look to extend their 4-0 records against JGS for the last regular season game ahead of hosting the playoffs on Sept 30^th. Get loud, get proud and DEFEND THE BROOK!

IT’S A GREAT DAY TO BE AN APACHE!

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Send non-profit calendar events to wpjnewsla@gmail.com .

Sept. 23

10 a.m. until 2 p.m. A Taste of Mt. Zion. Mt. Zion CME Youth and Young Adult Department.

4:30 p.m. (Drive through) 5 p.m. (Dine In) Judy Rayner Memorial Fundraiser, Pine Grove Methodist Church, 4549 Lewisville Rd., Minden. Chicken Spaghetti or Red Sauce Spaghetti meal. Baked goods auction, raffle tickets, silent auction items. Meal tickets ($10), raffle tickets ($5) contact Robin McCormack (426-4691), Lisa Peters (707-3226, Lanea Dooly @ AJ Price (617-8465), Monica Clark (464-2349) and Pine Grove Church Office (377-2609).

Registration is open for National Night Out parties. opens on Friday, September 22, 2023 and runs through 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023. Those interested in hosting block parties may register in person at Minden City Hall, over the phone by dialing (318) 377-2144, or online at http://www.mindenusa.com.

Sept. 24

2 until 4 p.m. Cora Lou Robinson Day, First Methodist Church, 903 Broadway, Minden.

3 p.m. Mt. Zion CME 153rd Anniversary.

Sept. 22-24

Springhill PRCA Rodeo and Parade, Springhill, La.

Sept. 25

5 until 7 p.m. Pulled Pork sandwich dinners with chips and dessert. $10. Farmer’s Pavilion, Springhill. Benefitting LaMa Animal Rescue.

Sept. 28

5 p.m. Candidate Meet & Greet at Minden Community House.

6 p.m. Candidates give a brief 2-3 minute overview of their platform.

September 28 through 30, Oct. 1

 Minden High School 30th Class Reunion

Sept. 28 – 6 until 9 p.m. Meet and Greet, Under Dawgs Sports Grill, 605 Main St., Minden, La.

Sept. 29 – 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., Meet and Greet, Under Dawgs Sports Grill, 605 Main St., Minden, La.

Sept. 29 – 9 p.m. until 1 a.m., Kickback, Camp Minden, 100 Louisiana Boulevard, Minden, La.

Homecoming Parade TBA

Sept. 30 – 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Family Fun Day, Hot Wheels Skating Rink, 3000 Old Minden Rd., Bossier City, La.

Sept. 30 – 7 p.m. until 1 a.m., Still Rollin 30 Years Later, Camp Minden, 100 Louisiana Boulevard, Minden, La.

Oct.1 – Church Fellowship TBA

Youth Basketball registration begins and runs through December 1 at Minden Rec Center.

Oct. 7

8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. “Day of Worship for Women, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Rd., Minden. Cost is $25 and space is limited.

Kathy Nelson with Speak It Ministries will be the speaker and Serena Gray will be leading worship. Register by contacting Janice Nelson at or 318-393-1990

or calling the church 318-377-4315. Childcare provided, lunch included.

10 a.m. until noon, free pet vaccines (no rabies). DHPP (dogs), FVRCP (cats), Springhill Civic Center, 101 Machen Dr., Springhill. Sponsored by LaMa Animal Rescue and Petco.

Oct. 12

6 p.m. Seeds Women’s Center annual Fundraising Banquet. Dinner at program. Minden Civic Center. For tickets, call 318-639-0907.

Oct. 13

4 p.m. Registration deadline for National Night Out parties to be held Oct. 17. Those interested in hosting block parties may register in-person at Minden City Hall, over the phone by dialing (318) 377-2144, or online at http://www.mindenusa.com.

Oct. 14

11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Minden Makers Fair. Accepting vendor applications, demonstrations and volunteers. https://www.mindenmakersfair.com/vendorregistration.

4 until 6 p.m. Witches’ Ride in downtown Minden. Tickets can be purchased online at the following link https://linktr.ee/witchesrideminden or in person at Red Blooms, Say Baby or Simply Chic in Bossier.  They are $45 per ticket. All money raised from ticket sales will benefit Miller Quarters Park, which will serve as the ride’s starting and ending point and will be the site for the block party set to follow the ride. A portion of money raised will also be donated to a non-profit organization called We’re Here, We Care. 

Oct. 17

5:30 p.m. Women of Courage, Minden Civic Center.

6 until 8 p.m. National Night Out parties.

Oct. 19

5:30 p.m. Men of Courage, Minden Civic Center.

Oct. 21

6 p.m. Monster-Mash BINGO Event. $25 admission for 10 games. Costume Contest, silent auction, raffles. Springhill Civic Center, 101 Machen Dr., Springhill. Proceeds go to LaMa Animal Rescue.

Oct. 24

6:30 p.m. 15 Under 40 Awards Gala, Minden Civic Center.

Oct. 26

4:30 p.m. Ghostly Gathering Trunk or Treat, Mack Memorial Library, Springhill, La.

Oct. 28

6 until 9 p.m. Minden Rec Annual Fall Festival.

Oct. 30

5 until 7 p.m. Glenbrook Fall Fest

5:30 p.m. Ghostly Gathering Trunk or Treat, Minden Branch, Webster Parish Libraries.

Nov. 4

10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Mission Baby Bazaar Craft/Bake Sale. First Baptist Church gym, Minden. Blessing families that are adopting/fostering children. Handmade crafts, silent auction, bake/casserole sale, hot dog or jambalaya lunch. All proceeds go to the children.

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Josephine Savell

July 29, 1923 – Sept. 20, 2023

Minden, La.

Rosary: 9:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 25, 2023, St. Paul Catholic Church.

Visitation: 10 a.m., immediately following Rosary.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 25, 2023, St. Paul Catholic Church, immediately following visitation.

Burial: Gardens of Memory Cemetery, 12:15 p.m. Monday, Sept. 25, 2023, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Bessie Johnson

May 10, 1934 – Sept. 20, 2023

Sarepta, La.

Visitation: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, Springhill Cemetery.

Charlie Brown

August 20, 1971 – Sept. 20, 2023

Cotton Valley, La.

Memorial service: 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, Bailey Funeral Home Chapel, Springhill, La.

Etta Jo New McCullough

July 5, 1937 – Sept. 16, 2023

Homer/Minden, La.

Reception/visitation: Following graveside service.

Graveside service: 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023, Mt. Mariah Church and Cemetery, 2 miles north of Arcadia on Highway 9.

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 received three phone calls Wednesday that might seem barely possible in the city limits, but investigation showed the reported black bear sightings were true.

MPD Chief Jared McIver said the bear was caught on a carport camera in the area of Marshall and Tillman streets.

“There’s a wooded section back there, and I feel like he went back in that area when it got dark,” McIver said. “He’s probably getting into people’s trash.”

McIver said he contacted Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries (LDWF) and pointed out the bear was inside the city limits, rather than out in the parish.

“I told them if I get one more call, I’m calling them again,” he said, around 9 p.m. Wednesday. “And I want it picked up. But we haven’t gotten any calls in the last 15 minutes.”

McIver, who retired from LDWF, said bears frequently travel.

“About a year after the flooding in 2015, we started seeing more bears,” he said. “When the rivers flooded, they were displaced. This time of year, hunting season is right around the corner and people are putting out corn. They love to raid a corn feeder.”

If anyone spots the bear, McIver warned against approaching it.

“Just call us,” he said. “Don’t try to scare it. Call us, and we will get somebody out there.”

Minden Police Department: 318-371-4226.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Minden City Council voted unanimously in a special session last week to amend the budget, making it possible to take care of sewer issues in City Districts A and B.

During 2021, 242 signatures were acquired from both districts to allow them to apply for a Louisiana Community Development Block Grant. Minden Mayor Nick Cox said the grant for $1.2 million has been awarded.

“A lot of people have a vested interest in this,” Cox said. “Several City of Minden employees and Terry Gardner (late mayor) walked the streets, along with then-District A councilman Wayne Edwards to get those signatures.”

Last week, council members with all present voted to award the bid to Suncoast Infrastructure, Inc., of  Florence, Miss. The bid was $1.32 million. The amendment to the budget covered Alternate 1 of $166,700 above the grant due to cost increases since 2021-2022. It was taken from Sewer Plant Sales Taxes.

“We had a choice of either don’t do the project or pay the $166,000,” Cox said. “After everyone worked so hard to get the signatures, no one really questioned it. It’s a project that is badly needed.”

Public Works Director Tyler Wallace said “Cured In Place Pipe” (CIPP) is the process that will be used. He said it is a time- and money-saving process.

“They put a camera in the sewer lines and then a sleeve, rather than digging up and replacing the entire line,” Wallace said. “There are some portions that will still have to be replaced, but not nearly all of it.”

“Some of the sewer lines go under the roads, which would mean digging up and replacing the road in those places,” Cox added.

Wallace said he feels the project will begin before the end of 2023.

“Maybe not full construction, but the preliminary stuff,” he said.

A pre-construction conference will be held between the City and Suncoast in the upcoming weeks.

“After that, they have a certain number of days before they must start,” Wallace added. 

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The community is invited to take place in an event this weekend honoring one of Minden’s greatest artists, Cora Lou Robinson.

From 2 until 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24, a celebration will be held at First Methodist Church, 903 Broadway Minden, where Mayor Nick Cox will proclaim Cora Lou Robinson Day.

Robinson will receive a Women in Arts certificate and pin and Daughters of American Revolution Community Service Award.

Over the years Robinson has generously shared her art by donating original works and prints to organizations near to her heart. She has been an active supporter of the Minden St. Jude auction since its beginnings in 1976.  She has donated many pieces of her art to be auctioned thereby bringing in thousands of dollars to support the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.  In addition, she has donated her art to the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum to raise money at their annual silent auction.  The proceeds of this auction help fund the museum.

She believes that every painting tells a story; consequently her paintings have found an appreciative audience in collections from California to Florida. She paints from her heart, and her work brings to mind a place and a time we once knew or wish we did.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

City of Minden is ready for step 2 in a Strategic Planning Program envisioning great things for the community’s future.

Recently, Mayor Nick Cox and councilmen Buddy Myles and Andy Pendergrass learned of a program with Delta Regional Authority (DRA). The City applied for and received grant funds for $135,000 to cover planning for the project.

The public is invited to any of three visionary planning meetings set for next week where attendees will have the opportunity to question DRA representatives, City officials and add their own visions for Minden.

The first two are scheduled for 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26. The final meeting is 8:30 until 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27.

“I wanted to have these meetings in different parts of the community,” Cox said. “But we were told that for part of these meetings we need to have internet connection and Zoom abilities. Those are requirements.

“The original plan was to have them at Ewell Park, the Minden Community House and maybe a church,” he added. “None of those places are equipped, so we are beginning with the Pelican Conference Room at City Hall. If needed, we will add chairs or move the meetings to the (Minden) Civic Center.”

The meetings are scheduled close together because they are preliminary.

“This whole process will take a year,” Cox said. “People are flying in from different places around the country to help us conduct them, so while they are here, we are doing them all.”

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Editor’s note: The Webster Parish Journal will be running bios for each participant competing for Miss Minden, Miss Spirit of Fasching, Miss Minden Outstanding Teen, Miss Spirit of Fasching Outstanding Teen and Miss Heart of Minden.

By Paige Nash

Mark your calendars for the 71^st Annual Miss Minden Scholarship Competition hosted by the Young Women’s Service Club (YWSC) of Minden. This year the pageant has moved up a couple of months. Instead of it being held at the usual time during the month of January, it will be taking place this coming November 11, 2023.  

“The pageant was originally held in November and moved to January during the Covid pandemic. We decided to move it back to November so more people could participate,” said YWSC President Elizabeth Campbell. “January is a tough time for most parents just coming off the holidays. Being back in November alleviates some of that but it also allows us to help kick off the holiday season.” 

Along with an earlier date for the pageant, other changes can be expected this year.  

The event is also changing venues. The YWSC has made the decision to move it from the previous location at the Minden Civic Center back to the Minden High School auditorium.  

“Pageant location has changed throughout the years however, due to the cost of the Civic Center in comparison to the Minden High Auditorium, we decided to spend the money that was for the Civic Center into better rewards and a better presentation for those that attend,” said Campbell.  

Another exciting change will be a new title – Miss Heart of Minden.  

“This is open to Webster Parish residents/students from ages 15-18. This is the same age category as our Miss Outstanding Teen that competes in the night pageant,” said Campbell. “Miss Heart of Minden will compete in formal wear only. This is strictly a title for Minden and does not continue her competition in the Miss America Pageant scene.” 

According to Campbell this title was created for older girls who would like to compete locally, but do not wish to compete within the Miss America Program. The winner of this title will primarily be the face of the YWSC at local events throughout the year. They will receive a cash award.  

In previous years, the titles Miss Minden, Miss Spirit of Fasching, Miss Minden Outstanding Teen and Miss Spirit of Fasching Outstanding Teen were awarded. Those titles will remain in place and the winners will have the opportunity to compete in Miss Louisiana to take place in Monroe early next year. 

The Little Miss Program (ages newborn to 14) will take place the morning of November 11 at 10 a.m., along with the new Miss Heart of Minden competition (ages 15 – 18) followed by Miss Minden including Miss Minden, Miss Spirit of Fasching, Miss Minden Outstanding Teen and Miss Spirit of Fasching Outstanding Teen Competition (ages 15-18) that evening at 7 p.m.  

Forms for both pageants must be submitted no later than Friday, November 3^rd at 6pm.  

Miss Minden is a closed competition, meaning that no one located outside of Minden can compete for the title.  

Campbell said, “In order to keep that title closed, we must have five girls registered with all paperwork submitted by October 20, 2023. If we are unable to secure five girls by that date, Miss Minden will become an open pageant to anyone located within Louisiana.” 

To register, please click the following link: https://form.jotform.com/ywscofminden/littlemissmindenregistration  

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Springhill Medical Center, is seeking an OP Physical Therapist. The medical center, located at 2001 Doctors Drive, Springhill, La. (North Webster Parish) was one of Watson Health 100 Top Hospitals in 2018. It also has 5 out of 5 stars Highest Quality Rating from Medicare.

This position has a competitive salary and a $15,000 signing bonus.

Apply online at http://www.smccare.com.

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We are now about a month into the new school year, which means things are in full swing around my house. Between daily homework, cheerleading, football games, homecomings, dances and festivals, there is not time for much else right now.  

I attended a football game last week, only to watch my oldest cheer, because I know nothing about football. It can be overwhelming with all the people, the noise, trying to watch what is going on plus keep up with the younger two, who cannot sit still for 5 minutes.  

I had a guy I know come up to me as I was following them around and make the comment, “You never sit down, do you?” Nope, no I do not.  

At every game, you can find young kids playing football, digging in the dirt beside the bleachers, making their way to the concession stand or groups of teenagers walking around staring at their phones.

Well as I was following my two around, I heard a little boy holler, “MOM!” 

Even though I knew my two were right within my eyesight, it was a natural reaction to spin my head around. It took seconds for me to realize it wasn’t one of mine, but as I looked around, I noticed about ten other women who were within earshot also quickly turned their heads to look in the direction of the little boy.  

I think it would be a fair assessment to say all these women are probably also mothers.  

But none of these moms were HIS mom and the little boy began panicking. I walked towards him along with a handful of the other mothers who heard him call out. I reached him first since I was already walking close by. He told me he couldn’t find his mom and asked if I knew her. He told me her name and it didn’t sound familiar, but luckily two of the other mothers who walked up, did know her. They asked if I could stay with him, while they walked around to try and find her. 

Of course, I stayed. He calmed down a little bit but was still upset. My motherly instincts kicked in and I tried my best to reassure him that the other two moms would find her.  

About five minutes later, she walked up followed by the two others who said they knew her. She had briefly walked away because her other son happened to be on the field playing in the game and was injured. So, in a frenzy she ran onto the field to make sure he was okay.  

I could tell she was stressed and worried. I felt for her and was completely sympathetic to her motherhood journey.  

Having multiple children involved in multiple things – it can be hard to keep up and you constantly feel as if you are getting pulled into 5,000 different directions at once. Even for mothers of only one child, trying to find a balance between motherhood, work and still having a personal life. It is not for the faint of heart.  

The mother hugged her son and thanked the three of us who helped him.  

I walked away grateful that it turned out well and also very appreciative of this community of moms. Even though we all did not know each other, and this was not our child – we are still moms. I feel as though it is natural to “mother,” especially in these types of situations when an unknown child is clearly distressed. It did not matter that he did not belong to me.

Sometimes I not only mother my own children, but I mother my sister’s kids, my neighbors’ kids, the lost kid and sometimes I even try to “mother” my own mother. (That usually does not end very well.) 

But sometimes we must help each other out. I surely hope that if my kid ever became separated from me, a fellow mom would come to the rescue.  

It most definitely takes a community to raise them, and we have to stick together.  

Stick around for next week’s column titled, “Mothering my own Mother.”

(Paige Nash is a mother, a wife, a mother of other people’s kids, publisher of Bienville Parish Journal and Claiborne Parish Journal, mother of her family’s kids and a digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal. … and a mother.)

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It’s your turn to sign up and hopefully win $100 playing Webster Parish Journal’s Football Pick’em Contest.

Each weekly winner over the life of the contest will be on the receiving end of $100 and have their photo taken at our title sponsor Under Dawgs Sports Grill, the gathering place featuring a home-field atmosphere. 

With no Thursday games on the schedule, you have until 4 p.m. Friday to get in your picks for this week’s games.

Anyone 18 and older is eligible to participate. All it takes is an email address and a combination of skill and a little luck. Each week,10 local and area high school football games plus two tie-breakers based on total points of two selected teams will be posted on the Webster Parish Journal. And just like the Journal, there’s no cost to enter.

This week, we already have more entries to date than all of last week, so get on your phone, computer or tablet and get ‘er done!

Signing up for the contest only takes a couple of minutes. Log on to https://form.jotform.com/232385564755163 and follow the instructions.

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The City of Minden is accepting applications for the position of Assistant City Clerk.  This is a responsible administrative/clerical position involving heavy accounting and financial functions in the City Clerk’s office.

The position requires a High School Diploma or GED plus two years advanced education in bookkeeping and accounting. One to two years administrative, clerical and accounting experience required, preferably with city government. Experience involving governmental funds or related accounts preferred.

This position also performs certain functions of the City Clerk in his/her absence. Secure employment with excellent benefits. Brief job description and application online http://www.mindenla.org/job-listings/ or come by City Hall to pick up app in person. Minden City Hall, 520 Broadway St. Minden, LA. The City of Minden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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By Jessica Gorman

In 1873, Mr. Pike Reynolds wrote a letter that was published in the Minden Democrat. In it, he recalls details about Minden when he was a resident thirty years earlier. Mr. Reynolds had been a partner in a business here.

This letter refers to the year 1843. Minden had been founded only seven years earlier. Mostly, we get a sense of how the town had grown both in business and in population. When Charles Veeder founded Minden, he opened the first store. The second store to open was that of H. Wilson & Co. owned by Hiram Wilson. Mr. Wilson also operated steamboats. He captained at least four different steamboats in the 1840s and 1850s, the Swamp Fox, Beeswing, Planter, and Sydonia.

By 1843, there were at least nine stores in operation in Minden. They are identified by Mr. Reynolds as Morrow, Berry, & Co., Drake & Hardy, Drury Murrell, S.D. Pitts, Thompson and Moore, Baker & Webster, John Chaffe, Montgomery & Co., Pike & Rush Reynolds. Two of these, S.D. Pitts and John Chaffe, also had offices in New Orleans. John Chaffe later moved to New Orleans.  

There was also a number of other businesses. Sanders P. Day was a hotel keeper. According to another source, he had assumed operation of the Rock Hotel built by Charles Veeder. There were two tailors, Allen Jones and Mr. Goldsmith. Mrs. Barfield ran a bakery. Edward Etter was a silversmith. There was also a tanner, David Laird, and a saddler, C. Reid.

The town had two doctors, Dr. Quarles and Dr. Pennall. Eight lawyers practicing in Minden are identified as Lawson, Evans, Olcott, Bonner, Vaughn, Drew, Scott, and Kirby. Judge Scott and Judge Peets also lived at Minden. Elkin Jones served as sheriff.

We also get a little insight into the nearby town of Overton, the seat of Claiborne Parish. Mr. Reynolds states that there was only one store located at Overton, that of L.E. Pratt. We can also see the lawyers, judges, and sheriff all living in Minden instead of at Overton. This information, combined with other evidence, paints a much different picture of Overton than some stories that are told.

Another detail that is revealed is the existence of three pianos in Minden and the fact that people would travel to Minden to listen to the music played upon them. Mr. Reynolds also makes mention of the Christmas of 1844 and all the activity in the town on that day. “We had a ball or cotillion party, a horse race, chicken fight, shooting match, and the keno and all banking tables going, including all short games from full deck three up, and on the same day the main parallelogram was full of Indians, and their ponies packed with deer hides, and they were trading their peltry for provisions, ammunition, and whiskey, and running foot races, dancing, and singing their songs.”

Insight into the population is given by a listing of residents. Mr. Reynolds identifies the young ladies of the town as Penelope Hamilton, Rebecca Kennon, Jane Powell, Almedia Hill, and Miss Cleveland. Heads of household are identified as follows: Judge Scott, Judge George W. Peets, Andrew Lawson, D.H. Evans, Tillinghast Vaughn, Mr. Kirby, Madison Morrow, Todd Morrow, Abner Drake, William Hardy, Drury Murrell, Mr. Jacobs, David Laird, Tom Holmes, Mrs. Barfield, C. Reid, Joseph Berry, Nathaniel Moore, Mr. Webster, S.D. Pitts, John Chaffe, Charles Chaffe, Major Jim Lee, Captain Hiram Wilson, George Thompson, Billy Crooker, William Prothro, Sr., William Prothro, Jr., Sanders P. Day, Pike Reynolds, Rush Reynolds, Mr. Allen, Mr. Jones, Mr. Etter, Mr. Goldsmith, Widow Webb, Henry Pitts, Bill Fuller, James Fuller, J.M. Fuller, Paschal Bates, Ellison Bates, John Reiher, Mr. Montgomery, Bill Dyer, Mr. Peabody, Mr. Sherwin, W. Mooney, Chas. Mooney, M. Jackson, Mr. Crawford, J. Crownover, Gus Kellogg, and Ed Kellogg.

Although brief, Mr. Pike Reynolds letter allows us a small glimpse at how Minden had grown and developed during its earliest years. 

(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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