Journal Staff
The second annual Witches Ride of Minden was every bit as popular as the first. In fact, one observer said he believes there were at least twice and possibly three times the number of participants Thursday as there were in the inaugural parade last year.
While the final count from ticket sales isn’t in yet, beneficiaries of the money collected from the ride – Webster Parish School children and Webster Parish CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) – should see a real boost from the event.
Event organizers with Pearls of Purpose Sarah Watson Overall and Angela Fussell approached the Witches Ride committee about donating books to school age children in the parish with funds raised through the 2024 event. It was a unanimous decision.
“Each one of the committee members has a special story or memory for their reason why this would be a great donation of choice,” Overall said. “We all have loved ones or dear friends that are retired teachers from Webster and Claiborne parish and many friends that are active teachers in those parishes today.”
It is through those connections that the group has a shared awareness of the importance of reading at an early age and the need for resources in the community. Through their partnership with Webster Parish schools, every first grader in the parish, including private schools, will receive a board approved book this Christmas season.
A portion of the funds raised will also be donated to CASA in hopes of benefitting this organization throughout the year with children’s birthday parties and gifts for local children in need this Christmas.
“This was also a unanimous decision as we are all women who love a good celebration in life,” said Overall. “Being able to provide these children with a birthday party and a Christmas morning like that of our own children was a no-brainer.”
Grand Marshals for the parade were Laura Hollingsworth and Melissa Brown.
“These southern ladies have deep roots in this community and possess the epitome of a servant’s heart and carry grace and charm,” said Overall. “They are both wives, mothers, grandmothers, and have been active leaders in this community for many years. When they aren’t giving their time to their families, they are both serving on different committees and boards.”
Hollingsworth and Brown also share the title of “Woman of the Year,” and have been actively involved in the Minden St. Jude (MSJ) Auction since 1995.
