Advent will soon be upon us, leading into Christmas. Many churches and other religious organizations will observe this holy season and may want to extend invitations for the community to join them. If you have an event of this nature, please send the date, time and description to wpjnewsla@gmail.com and we will be happy to print it.

December 1

4 p.m. Christmas Music concert by Cox and Thurman families, Brushwood Methodist Church of Dubberly. Gumbo served afterward in Ellen Hall. All are welcome to start the Advent season.

5 p.m. Hanging of the Greens, Mt. Zion C.M.E. Church, 414 East Union Street, Pastor T.J. Davis Jr. All are welcome.

December 8

3 p.m. Shreveport-Bossier Choral Ensemble Christmas Concert, First Methodist Church Sanctuary, 903 Broadway, Minden. Aaron De. Wilson Director. Dr. Dan Gibbs, Accompanist.

December 12 – 14

6 until 9 p.m. Walk-through Live Nativity, Parkway Baptist Church, 160616, Hwy. 79, (Homer Road). Free event. Refreshments served.

December 15

6 p.m. Once Upon a Night Christmas Cantata, First Methodist Church Chancel Choir with Orchestra. Dr. Dan Gibbs, Director. Sanctuary, 903 Broadway, Minden, La.

December 21

5:30 until 9 p.m. Downtown Live Nativity.

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By Paige Gurgainers

The Lakeside Little Warriors 5/6 baseball team traveled to Monroe last Thursday, November 21, winning one, 6-1, and tying the second, 4-4. 

In the first game, the Warriors faced Ouachita Christian School (OCS) getting on the board early in the first inning with two runs. 

But they came back for an even bigger third inning. 

Pitcher Kason Shaw only gave up one hit and one run in over two innings, striking out four and walking three.  

Gunner Sparks went two-for-two in the batter’s box with Reed Powell and Kaleb Kidd also earning one run for Lakeside. Grant Mooreland scored with two walks. Albert Bourbon stole two bases.  

In the second game, their opponent, Jesus the Good Shepherd (JGS), put up more of a fight. 

The Little Warriors hit the scoreboard in the top of the first inning with Landrie Myers singling, scoring one run. Tripp Glass went one-for-one at the plate batting in two runs. A ground out by Conner extended the lead to 4-1 in the top of the second.  

JGS came back to tie the game in the bottom of the third.  

Myers started the game for Lakeside on the mound, allowing one hit and four runs over two innings, striking out five and walking six.  

The Little Warriors will be taking a short hiatus to celebrate Thanksgiving with their families, but will be returning to the field at the Minden Recreation Center next week. Please follow the Lakeside “Little Warriors” Sports Facebook page to stay up to date on upcoming game times.  

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By Paige Gurgainers

The Greater Minden Chamber is bringing back an exciting element to their Christmas in Minden festivities this year and most attendees will be feeling very … grapeful.  

The second annual Wine Walk will be taking place downtown on Friday, December 13 following the kick-off of the event – the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. 

“Last year was a huge success, and we are expecting this year to be even bigger and better,” said chamber board president Stephanie Barnette.  

The wine tasting experience will include a fun evening of shopping at 15+ vendors and shops along the brick road with at least 8 places designated to keep your glass full.  

“Visit Webster Parish will have a free hayride through the historic district to see the Christmas lights on Friday night. We’ll have musical entertainment throughout downtown, as well as pop up vendors lining the streets with our stores and restaurants staying open late. It’s going to be a truly magical evening you won’t want to miss,” said Barnette.  

Tickets are limited. Participants purchase a $25 ticket which includes an event wine glass, and a map of businesses open to shop along the way. Proceeds from this event will benefit the new Ronald McDonald House in Shreveport. Must be 21+ to participate in wine tasting. Bring ID’s. No refunds. Tickets are available on our website, www.greatermindenchamber.com 

Holiday festivities will continue Saturday with a “Candyland Christmas” parade and fireworks show.  

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Looking for the perfect books to celebrate Thanksgiving with your little ones? Your Webster Parish Libraries have a feast of illustrated stories that will spark laughter, learning, and gratitude!

Here are three tasty picks:

“Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie” by America’s Test Kitchen: Follow Peyton on her quest to find the perfect pie. Will she find her new favorite dessert?

“The Night Before Thanksgiving” by Natasha Wing: A delightful Thanksgiving Eve tale filled with family fun and festive preparations!

“How to Catch a Turkey” by Adam Wallace: Get ready for a turkey chase packed with giggles and unexpected twists!

Stop by the library to check these out and many more.

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

November 26

6 p.m.  Minden Civic Center. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Fashionetta.

November 30

Breakfast with Santa at the Partea Room

9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Mistletoe Market, Springhill, La.

5 until 7 p.m. Springhill Lighted Christmas Parade.

December 6

6 p.m. Minden Medical Center Rehab Reindeer Run. Registration online – runsignup.com/Race/LA/Minden/RehabReindeerRun, forms available MMC Rehab, 1120 Homer Rd or MMC Business Office, 346 Homer Rd.

December 7

8:30 until 11 a.m. Breakfast with Santa, Lakeview Methodist Church, 301 Lakeshore Drive, Minden. Free pancakes, milk, juice and coffee. Free pictures made with Santa.

December 9

5 until 7p.m. Chicken & Sausage gumbo with rice, bread and dessert. Gumbo from Herby-K’s. $12. Springhill Farmers Market, 404 N. Giles, Springhill. Proceeds go to LaMa Rescue.

December 12 – 14

6 until 9 p.m. Walk-through Live Nativity, Parkway Baptist Church, 160616, Hwy. 79, (Homer Road). Free event. Refreshments served.

December 13

5:30 p.m. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

6 until 9 p.m. Holiday Trail of Lights Hayride and Historic Tour

6 p.m. Reindeer Run

December 14

9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Christmas Brunch at Geaux Fresh Bistro and Bakery

Noon until 3 p.m. pics with Santa and kids activities at Dorcheat Museum.

5 p.m. Minden Christmas Festival and Parade

7 p.m. Fireworks

December 15

1 until 6 p.m. Christmas Tour of Homes

December 16

Deadline for applications for Civitan Santa Toy project. Pick up application forms at Minden City Police Department or Community Action Center. Applications will be considered for children through age 13.

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United Christian Assistance Program will be open Wednesday, November 27. They have the following needs:

Food: Ramen noodles, pasta (spaghetti, etc. without sauce)

Household goods: sheets, towels & wash cloths

Clothing: men’s shoes/tennis shoes (9 and up)

Toiletries: (men’s and women’s deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, etc.)

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Thank you for supporting UCAP!

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court on Monday, December 2:

POTTS, JAMES L.

98825 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

PJD Jury Trial WPSD

BARRIERE, RICHARD

99139 Fail to Register and Notify as a Sex Offender 2nd Offense

PJD Jury Trial SPRING

BUTLER, ARNO ADAM

99004 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Codef: J. Cauley

PJD Jury Trial WPSD

CASEY, DONTAY DEWAYNE

98547 Illegal Possession Of Stolen Firearms

PJD Jury Trial MPD

WHEELER, JR., FABIAN A.

98605 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

Co-Def: S. Wheeler

PJD Jury Trial MPD

WHEELER, SHANTANI

98605 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

Co-Def F. Wheeler

PJD Jury Trial MPD

CEDARS, KRYSTAL RACHELLE

98989 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

PJF Jury Trial MPD

DISOTELL, JACOB DAWSON

98679 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

R. Hayden, J. Parker

PJF Jury Trial WPSD

GIFFORD, DAVID W

98789 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

PJF Jury Trial LSP

HENDRICKS, ALEX FITZGERALD

98625 CT 1 Domestic Abuse Battery with Dangerous Weapon

98625 CT 2 Domestic Abuse Battery – 2nd Offense

PJF Jury Trial CVPD

HENDRICKS, ALEX FITZGERALD

97141 CT 1 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

PJF Jury Trial CVPD

97141 CT 2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

Restitution owed for medical bills- $2,676.35, plus $401.45 fee = $3,077.80 total

MULLEN, JANARIUS

98534 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

PJF Jury Trial MPD

MURPHY, CURTIS L

99090 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

PJF Jury Trial MPD

NOLAN, TOMMY RAY

98638 Aggravated Battery

PJF Jury Trial MPD

REED, CHRISTOPHER BURTON

99128 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule III CDS

99128 CT 2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

99128A Aggravated Assault

Co-Def: H. Williams

PJF Jury Trial WPSD

TROQUILLE, JOE

98658 CT 1 Illegal Discharge Of A Firearm – Crime Of Violence / Uniform CDS Law

98658 CT 2 Illegal Discharge Of A Firearm – Crime Of Violence / Uniform CDS Law

Please make forfeiture of P-380 handgun as part of any sentence/plea agreement.

PJF Jury Trial SPRING

WILLIS, GREGORY CARTEZ

98978 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

PJF Jury Trial SPRING

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court on Monday, December 2:

Courtroom A

COMPTON, JOHN LUCAS

99197 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

OC 11/15 Trial 1/27 A Status Hearing WPSD

DANCE, SARAH FAYE

98979A-CT.1 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000.00

98979A-CT.2 Simple Battery

98979A-CT.3 Resisting An Officer

For Further Disposition WPSD

DANCE, SARAH FAYE

98201 Ct. 1 Simple Criminal Damage To Property

Under $1,000.00

98201 Ct. 2 Simple Battery

A For Further Disposition WPSD

DANCE, SARAH FAYE

98979 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

WPJ OC 10/4 Trial 1/27

A Status Hearing WPSD

DANCE, SARAH FAYE

98979B-CT.1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98979B-CT.2 Attempted Simple Escape

98979B-CT.3 Attempted Aggravated Escape

98979B-CT.4 Second Degree Battery

A Status Hearing WPSD

Holland, Hugo Eric Johnson Doug Stinson

DUNN, RONNY PAUL

98684 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Status Hearing MPD

Codef: H. Taravella

IVERSON, MAURCIONIO L.

98345-CT.1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98345-CT.2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98345-CT.3 Simple Escape

98345A-CT.1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

98345A-CT.2 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Status Hearing WPSD

JOHNSON, JR., KEVIN PATRICK

99213 Intimidating or Impeding a Witness

A Status Hearing MPD

JONES, SR., TERRY WYATT

97270 Illegal Discharge And/Or Disposal Of Non-Hazardous Substance

A Status Hearing DEQ

JONES, SR., TERRY WYATT

99179 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Status Hearing MPD

MARTIN, TONY

98733-CT.1 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

98733-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Status Hearing WPSD

MCEACHERN, CALVIN BRAD

99196-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

99196-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule III CDS

A Status Hearing MPD

PACKARD, II, RICHARD P

97448 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

97448A Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

A Status Hearing WPSD

POTTS, JAMES L.

98825 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Hearing WPSD

POTTS, JAMES L.

98825 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Arraign on Amended Bill WPSD

SMITH, ANTONIO DEWAYNE

99223 Second Degree Battery

99223A Simple Battery

A Status Hearing WPSD

STEVENS, JASON C

99248 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Codef: A. Latham

A Status Hearing WPSD

STRICKLAND, JON MICHAEL

99163 Simple Burglary

A Status Hearing WPSD

THOMAS, NATHAN LETRELL

97352A Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

Codef: J. Oliver

A Probation Violation Hearing CPD

THOMAS, NATHAN LETRELL

99278 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

A Status Hearing MPD

THOMAS, NATHAN LETRELL

98866 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98866 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

98866 CT. 3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

A For Further Disposition LSP

TIMS, RANDALL L.

98295 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

A Status Hearing MPD

WALTMAN, TONY

98580 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty- Eight Grams)

A Status Hearing WPSD

Courtroom B

DISOTELL, JACOB DAWSON

99063 CT 1 Simple Battery

99063 CT 2 Aggravated Assault

B For Further Disposition WPSD

DISOTELL, JACOB DAWSON

99324 Simple Battery

B For Further Disposition WPSD

FORD, LAMONT MARIEL

99046 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

Co-Def R. Horton

B Status Hearing LSP

FOSTER, RANCE D.

99051 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

B Status Hearing WPSD

GUTIERREZ -AGUILAR, LUIS MIGUEL

98970 CT 1 Simple Burglary

B Status Hearing DIPD

Yocom, Jimbo Eric Johnson Parker Self

98970 CT 2 Illegal Use Of Weapons Or Dangerous Instrumentalities

Restitution owed to the victim per the report- $14,314.12, plus $2,147.11 fee = $16,461.23 total

OGDEN, KADARRYL OLAJAWON

98960 Distribution Of A Substance Falsely Represented As A Controlled Dangerous Substance

B Status Hearing SPRING

OGDEN, KADARRYL OLAJAWON

97161 Aggravated Second Degree Battery

B Probation Violation Hearing SPRING

QUAID, JUSTIN SHANE

95898 Theft of $5,000 or More but Less than $25,000

Restitution owed to the victim per report $15,000, plus $2,250 fee= $17,250 total

REED, CHRISTOPHER BURTON

98154 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

B Probation Violation Hearing MPD

STEPHENS, JARYON

98880 CT 1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98880 CT 2 Attempted Second Degree Murder

Co-Def: G. Kemp

B Status Hearing MPD

TAYLOR, JAMIE M.

98604 CT 1 Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment

98604 CT 2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

B Status Hearing MPD

TROQUILLE, JOE

98658 CT 1 Illegal Discharge Of A Firearm – Crime Of Violence / Uniform CDS Law

98658 CT 2 Illegal Discharge Of A Firearm – Crime Of Violence / Uniform CDS Law

Please make forfeiture of P-380 handgun as part of any sentence/plea agreement.

B Hearing SPRING

WILLIAMS, HEATH LOGAN

99129 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Co-Def: C. Reed

B Status Hearing WPSD

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As Thanksgiving approaches it may benefit us to take a deep breath and realize that although this past year was at times difficult, punctuated by a tumultuous presidential election, we have made it.  We have persevered through another year and that is commendable, in and of itself.

Our recently passed Veterans Day makes me grateful not only for our current military heroes but also for those who were grievously wounded and those 1.1 million American service men and women since the Revolutionary War to the present day who died defending America, placing on the altar of freedom that “last full measure of devotion.”

And why was this enormous sacrifice made?

For the defense and preservation of the freedom and liberties we often take for granted.  These fundamental rights include the ability to speak out and peacefully express our opinions—to one another and to our government; to defend ourselves in court when we are accused of a crime; to arm ourselves under the 2nd Amendment so we may protect ourselves and our families against crime—and even, according to our Founders’ intent, from an unjust U.S. government; and to gather and pray as millions of us will do with our loved ones on Thanksgiving Day. 

We are thankful our Declaration of Independence remains the “promise” of America and that our Constitution remains dedicated to the “fulfillment of the promise” of America.  We treasure the Declaration’s recognition of both our intrinsic human value and that our rights come not from government but from God: “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights and that among them are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” 

It’s true America must continue to grapple with and solve many challenges that face us. We will need to overcome the self-inflicted economic pain and international vulnerabilities caused by some of our government’s breathtakingly poor policy choices, among other struggles.  Yet, I am encouraged at the thought of the tremendous talent and ingenuity of the American entrepreneur and the stunning ability of the free market and free people to adapt to tough times, as we have so many times in American history. 

In his Thanksgiving Proclamation of 1789, President George Washington declared:

“…it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor … I recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.”

In both his first and second Thanksgiving Day addresses, President Reagan echoed Washington’s beliefs. 

In his 1981 Thanksgiving Day Address to the American people, President Reagan, for whom my brother Tom worked in the White House at the time, reminded all Americans that God, not government, is the source of the multitude of national blessings bestowed upon all Americans, and that charity toward one another is engrained upon our national soul.

President Reagan pointed out that “long before there was a government welfare program, this spirit of voluntary giving was ingrained in the American character.” 

In his second Thanksgiving Day message in 1982, President Reagan said that “I have always believed that this anointed land was set apart in an uncommon way, that a divine plan placed this great continent here between the oceans to be found by people from every corner of the Earth who had a special love of faith and freedom.”

This week I hope we are able to unplug and reconnect with our families and our faith, reaffirming what should be our enormous gratitude for our blessings.

Pres. Trump, for whose election we should be deeply grateful, proclaimed Thanksgiving Day in 2020:

On Thanksgiving Day, we thank God for the abundant blessings in our lives.  As we gather with family and friends to celebrate this season of generosity, hope, and gratitude, we commemorate America’s founding traditions of faith, family, and friendship, and give thanks for the principles of freedom, liberty, and democracy that make our country exceptional in the history of the world … I encourage all Americans to gather, in homes and places of worship, to offer a prayer of thanks to God for our many blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving!

 (Shreveport attorney, Royal Alexander, worked in D.C. in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly 8 years for two different Members of Congress from Louisiana.  He has witnessed up close several Speaker races. He can be reached at RoyalAlexanderlawfirm@gmail.com .)

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Masalyn L. Harper, 58, Winfield Rd., Princeton; arrested Nov. 21 by WPSO for parole revocation. Bond set $10.000.

Raven S. Whitfield, 25, Peach St., Minden; arrested Nov. 22 by WPSO for violation of probation/parole. Bond set at $10,000.

Jordan A. Harville, 30, 100 block Nelson Lane, Minden; arrested Nov. 23 by WPSO on outstanding warrant for direct contempt of court. Bond set $250.

Timothy E. Miller, 40, Mason St., Minden; arrested Nov 23 by WPSO on outstanding warrant for improper supervision of a minor. Bond set at $10,000.

Dedric R. Miller, 45, 1200 block Shreveport Rd., Minden; arrested Nov. 22 by MPD for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer by failure to identify, pedestrian on highway. Bond set $2,500.

Victor Batton, 31, 800 block Harris St., Minden; arrested Nov. 22 by MPD for public intoxication.

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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Sherry Lynn Poland

Sept. 14, 1948 – Nov. 24, 2024

Minden, La.

Visitation: 4 until 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Graveside service: 2 p.m. Wednesday, November 27, 2024, Bistineau Cemetery.

Virginia DeLoach

Oct. 13, 1937 – Nov. 24, 2024

Minden/Dubberly, La.

Visitation: Noon until 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Graveside service: 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, Fuller Cemetery.

Heather Mason

April 26, 1979 – November 15, 2024

Springhill, La.

Arrangements pending through Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Anna Martin Franks

July 21, 1951 – November 23, 2024

Plain Dealing, La.

Visitation: 10 a.m. until noon Tuesday, November 26, 2024, Kings Corner Assembly of God, Sarepta, La.

Funeral service: noon, immediately following visitation, under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill Hill.

Private burial: Boggs Cemetery, Plain Dealing.

Belinda Ruth Jones

April 27, 1953 – October 25, 2024

Haynesville/Homer, La.

Memorial service: 11 a.m. Saturday, November 30, 2024, Ruple Baptist Church, Haynesville, La., under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Homer, 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 no charge.)

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By Pat Culverhouse

Sterlington’s Panthers combined a pounding ground game with a stiff defense to end the Lakeside Warriors’ season Friday with a 49-18 second-round win in LHSAA Division III Non-Select.

Sterlington jumped out front midway through the first quarter when Hagen Herring scored on a 19-yard run, the first of three Panther scores that led to a 21-0 halftime advantage. Other scores came in the second quarter on a T.J. Burch one-yard burst and Gavin Evans’ 10-yard scamper. 

Lakeside’s first score of the contest came with just over five minutes remaining in the third quarter when Aaron Riley hauled in a 60-yard scoring pass from quarterback Brock Case. That score came with the Warriors trailing 35-0 following the Panthers’ Sam Frazier 78-yard kickoff return to start the second half  and a Herring 10-yard run.

Sterlington scored again in the third quarter on Evans’ 35-yard scamper, and the Warriors answered when Kentravion Miller bulled into the end zone from one yard out. The teams swapped scores in the fourth quarter with Sterlington’s Burch breaking loose for a 66-yard run to pay dirt and the Warriors’ Eli Santelices diving into the end zone from six yards out with five seconds remaining in the game.

Lakeside had more total yards in the contest, picking up 266 on the ground and 60 through the air for a combined 326 yards. Sterlington had 318 total yards, all on the ground. The Panthers attempted only one pass in the game.

Lakeside had the game’s leading rusher as Case picked up 112 yards on eight carries. Miller added 108 yards on 23 attempts. Other Warrior ballcarriers were Santelices with 21 yards on three carries, Taron Riley with 21 yards on 12 tries and James Maxie with one carry for four yards.

Sterlington was led by Burch with eight carries for 109 yards and Evans with 106 yards on nine attempts. The Panthers, a perennial powerhouse in Division III NS, moved its record to 8-4 on the year heading into the next round of play. 

With the loss, Lakeside finished the season 9-3, a record-setting year for first-year coach John Ware’s Warriors. The team also had the distinction of fielding two running backs who rushed for more than 1,000 yards on the year.

• Lakeside season statistics:

Senior Taron Riley romped for 1,284 yards for the season and scored 10 touchdowns. Miller, a junior, led the team in scoring with 21 touchdowns and gained 1,175 yards during the campaign. Case rushed for 167 yards and four touchdowns, Santelices picked up 102 yards with two scores and James Maxie scored three touchdowns and picked up 99 yards. 

Quarterback Case, a junior, threw for 583 yards and seven TDs on the season in the Warriors’ run-heavy offense. Riley was the top receiver with 16 catches for 141 yards and two scores, and also returned two kickoffs and one punt for touchdowns. 

Senior Maxie had more yards (151) on five receptions and two scores. Santelices had 130 yards on five catches and two scores, Noah Redding caught six passes for 91 yards and Trevor Tharpe had four receptions for 62 yards.

Defensively, sophomore Caleb Barber linebacker led the team with 69 tackles and had one interception for the season. He was followed by Jamarion “CoCo” Evans with 55 tackles and Santelices with 50. 

Junior tackle Bryce Parker had 46 tackles while senior Jacob Rankin had 44 tackles and led the team with nine tackles for loss. Others with more than 30 stops on the season were Shavell Randall (36), Maxie (33) and sophomore Eric Jones (32).

(Editor’s note: thanks to Mark Chreene at KASO/KBEF Radio for providing game and season statistics.)

By  Pat Culverhouse

Fifth grade students at Central Elementary School got some pre-holiday recognition Friday with graduation ceremonies marking their completion of the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) course.

Webster Parish Deputy Jeremy Wiggins, D.A.R.E. instructor at Central and Doyline High School, praised the students for their dedication in completing the course, and for their cooperation during the studies.

“To the parents of these students, you have done a remarkable job of teaching your children the important things. During my time at Central, the students have shown me nothing but respect and they’ve always been willing to work hard to complete the work,” Wiggins told a large crowd of family and supporters.

A pair of graduates received special recognition for their achievements during the program. Emerson Jernigan was named D.A.R.E. Outstanding Student, while Graylenn Gros was named winner of the D.A.R.E. essay contest.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker joined Wiggins and Central Elementary Principal Daniel Lee in handing out diplomas. Webster Parish Superintendent of Schools Johnny Rowland told graduates they had completed a very important course in their development as students and future leaders.

Additional guests were Webster Parish Chief Deputy Hank Haynes, WPSO Capt. Roosevelt Kinsey III, Heflin Mayor Ralph James, Heflin Chief of Police Paul Migues and Dubberly Chief of Police (elect) Coby Barton.

D.A.R.E. was launched in 1983 through the efforts of Los Angeles Police Chief Daryl Gates and the Los Angeles Unified School District to combat unprecedented drug abuse among youth in the 1970s and ’80s. The program’s success has been documented through its continued use in schools across the nation.

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Advent will soon be upon us, leading into Christmas. Many churches and other religious organizations will observe this holy season and may want to extend invitations for the community to join them. If you have an event of this nature, please send the date, time and description to wpjnewsla@gmail.com and we will be happy to print it.

December 1

4 p.m. Christmas Music concert by Cox and Thurman families, Brushwood Methodist Church of Dubberly. Gumbo served afterward in Ellen Hall. All are welcome to start the Advent season.

5 p.m. Hanging of the Greens, Mt. Zion C.M.E. Church, 414 East Union Street, Pastor T.J. Davis Jr. All are welcome.

December 8

3 p.m. Shreveport-Bossier Choral Ensemble Christmas Concert, First Methodist Church Sanctuary, 903 Broadway, Minden. Aaron De. Wilson Director. Dr. Dan Gibbs, Accompanist.

December 12 – 14

6 until 9 p.m. Walk-through Live Nativity, Parkway Baptist Church, 160616, Hwy. 79, (Homer Road). Free event. Refreshments served.

December 15

6 p.m. Once Upon a Night Christmas Cantata, First Methodist Church Chancel Choir with Orchestra. Dr. Dan Gibbs, Director. Sanctuary, 903 Broadway, Minden, La.

December 21

5:30 until 9 p.m. Downtown Live Nativity.

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Monday

A 20 percent chance of showers after 3 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 79. South wind 10 to 15 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.

Monday Night

Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 46. North wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 63. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 47. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph after midnight.

Wednesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 76.

* Information provided by the National Weather Service

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With the announcement of the Week 12 winner of the Webster Parish Journal’s Pick’em Contest  Wednesday, the 2024 contest will come to an end. We have enjoyed your participation and hope you have, too. Beginning next week, Webster Parish Journal will return to publishing Tuesday through Friday, but if there is breaking news over the weekend – or any time – we will do our best to ensure our readers are the first to know about it. The contest will return next fall when high school football kicks off and the officials’ whistles blow!

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

November 26

6 p.m.  Minden Civic Center. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Fashionetta.

November 30

Breakfast with Santa at the Partea Room

9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Mistletoe Market, Springhill, La.

5 until 7 p.m. Springhill Lighted Christmas Parade.

December 6

6 p.m. Minden Medical Center Rehab Reindeer Run. Registration online – runsignup.com/Race/LA/Minden/RehabReindeerRun, forms available MMC Rehab, 1120 Homer Rd or MMC Business Office, 346 Homer Rd.

December 7

8:30 until 11 a.m. Breakfast with Santa, Lakeview Methodist Church, 301 Lakeshore Drive, Minden. Free pancakes, milk, juice and coffee. Free pictures made with Santa.

December 9

5 until 7p.m. Chicken & Sausage gumbo with rice, bread and dessert. Gumbo from Herby-K’s. $12. Springhill Farmers Market, 404 N. Giles, Springhill. Proceeds go to LaMa Rescue.

December 12 – 14

6 until 9 p.m. Walk-through Live Nativity, Parkway Baptist Church, 160616, Hwy. 79, (Homer Road). Free event. Refreshments served.

December 13

5:30 p.m. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

6 until 9 p.m. Holiday Trail of Lights Hayride and Historic Tour

6 p.m. Reindeer Run

December 14

9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Christmas Brunch at Geaux Fresh Bistro and Bakery

Noon until 3 p.m. pics with Santa and kids activities at Dorcheat Museum.

5 p.m. Minden Christmas Festival and Parade

7 p.m. Fireworks

December 15

1 until 6 p.m. Christmas Tour of Homes

December 16

Deadline for applications for Civitan Santa Toy project. Pick up application forms at Minden City Police Department or Community Action Center. Applications will be considered for children through age 13.

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Heather Mason

April 26, 1979 – November 15, 2024

Springhill, La.

Arrangements pending through Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Belinda Ruth Jones

April 27, 1953 – October 25, 2024

Haynesville/Homer, La.

Memorial service: 11 a.m. Saturday, November 30, 2024, Ruple Baptist Church, Haynesville, La., under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Homer, 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 no charge.)

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On December 7, 2024, the voters of Webster Parish will have the opportunity to renew the 2.78 Mill property tax to fund maintenance, operation, and improvements to the Webster Parish Courthouse, Webster Parish Courthouse Annex, Webster Parish Health Unit and Agricultural Extension Service. 

The buildings provide offices for:

*Courthouse- The Courthouse Maintenance; The Clerk’s Offices of the 26^th Judicial District Court, The Judge’s Offices of the 26^th Judicial District Court; The District Attorney’s Offices of the 26^th Judicial District Court; The Registrar of Voters Office; The Office of Homeland Security; The Webster Parish Coroner’s Office; Webster Parish Jail;  The Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, Probation, and Civil Department/ Tax Department; and The E-911 and Dispatch Center.

*Courthouse Annex- The Police Jury Office – The Webster Parish Sheriff’s Offices – Administration, Sheriff, Detectives, Patrol Office, and Narcotics Division.

*Webster Parish Health Unit – Clinic and Sanitation Officers

*Webster Parish Extension Office- LSU Ag Center – Administration, 4-H and County Agents

There are more than 250 people employed on a full time or part time basis in these buildings and at times there can be as many as 500 – 1000 citizens utilizing these offices weekly.  During elections and court proceedings, there can be many more people in and out of the buildings.

Among the services provided are: 

Court records access; filing of legal papers; birth certificates; death certificates; marriage licenses; records, warrants; court proceedings; worthless check filing; elections – filing; early voting etc.; register to vote; pay taxes and fines; building permits; permits for heavy equipment; disaster declarations; probation & parole; and many more activities at the outlining buildings.  Included in the operation, maintenance, and improvements are normal operation expense such as utilities and maintenance contracts, maintenance supplies; salary for maintenance staff, upkeep of existing equipment, purchase of new equipment as needed, renovations, and all other needs to keep the buildings clean, functioning, and safe for the public.

PLEASE VOTE ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2024.

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Vincent Fizer, 58 year old black male, is wanted for felony theft for allegedly stealing a child’s electric ATV from a residence in January, 2024.

Anyone with information on Fizer is encouraged to contact MPD Detective Lt. Jason Smith at 318-371-4226 (office), 318-268-1441 (cell) or email at  jksmith@mindenusa.com. All information will be confidential.

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By Josh Beavers

In a remarkable turnaround from post-pandemic challenges, the Webster Parish School System has emerged as one of Louisiana’s most improved school districts, achieving a “B” letter grade in the latest performance scores released Wednesday.

“This is a true testament to their hard work, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence,” said Superintendent Johnny Rowland, Jr., celebrating the district’s achievements.

The results show widespread improvement across the district, with 13 out of 14 schools demonstrating growth, while one maintained its previous performance level. Six schools advanced to the next letter grade due to their improved scores.

Among Louisiana’s 69 public school districts, Webster Parish ranked third in overall improvement. Even more notably, among districts rated “A” or “B,” Webster Parish claimed the top spot for improvement.

The achievement is particularly significant given the district’s recent struggles with COVID-19. During the 2020-21 school year, nearly one-third of the district’s 5,500 students were enrolled in virtual learning, with half of those continuing remote education the following year. Regular quarantines of students and staff, following Region 7 Department of Health guidelines, further complicated the educational environment.

“We are most pleased with these results considering where we were just a few years ago as we were faced with the difficult challenges of life during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Rowland noted. “It was not until the 2022-23 school year that we returned to any sense of normalcy in our school system.”

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Tonight at 7 p.m., Lakeside’s Warriors will play Sterlington as the only Webster Parish team remaining in the LHSAA playoffs. If you can’t attend, catch the game on AM 1240 KASO and KBEF 104.5 FM. Online at kbef.com or facebook.com/mindenradio. If all goes as planned, the Webster Parish Journal’s PIck’em Contest will continue next week, beginning on Tuesday. We hope to see you again then.

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A boil advisory issued November 19 by the City of Minden has been lifted. The advisory – for customers on 500 through 700 blocks of Germantown Road, all of Rose Hill Ln., all of Azalea Terrace Ln. and all of Colony Ln. – was due to a a broken six-inch water main.

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