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Friday

Patchy frost before 9 a.m. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 63. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Friday Night

Patchy frost after midnight. Otherwise, clear, with a low around 37. Calm wind.

Saturday

Areas of frost before 9 a.m. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 67. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Saturday Night

Clear, with a low around 47.

Sunday

Sunny, with a high near 76.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 61.

Monday

Partly sunny, with a high near 77.

* Information provided by the National Weather Service

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It’s BAAAACK!!!!!

After a brief hiatus, Door Dash is back at one of your favorite family-owned restaurants, Hamburger Happiness.

Now you can get a great breakfast and burger without leaving the comfort of your home or your pajamas by clicking on their ad in Webster Parish Journal, calling 318-371-6623 or contacting Door Dash.

Bill and Donna Hoffoss, along with their family invite you to call, stop by or use Door Dash to enjoy the good food from Hamburger Happiness.

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As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, preparing your turkey properly is essential for ensuring both its safety and quality. A crucial step in this preparation is safely thawing the turkey. While a frozen turkey is perfectly safe, once it begins to thaw and its temperature rises above 40°F, bacteria that might have been present before freezing can begin to multiply, potentially causing foodborne illness. To minimize this risk, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends three safe methods for thawing a turkey. These methods are also applicable for thawing hams and other meats. It’s important to never thaw foods in unsafe locations, such as a garage, basement, car, dishwasher, plastic garbage bag, or outdoors on the porch. These methods do not ensure the turkey remains at a safe temperature, which could lead to harmful bacterial growth.

Method 1: Thawing in the Refrigerator

The safest and most recommended method for thawing your turkey is in the refrigerator. This method allows for a slow, controlled thawing process, keeping the turkey at a safe temperature. Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Leave the turkey in its original packaging and place it on a shelf in your refrigerator. It’s a good idea to place a pan underneath it to catch any juices that may leak out.
• Step 2: Allow about 24 hours of thawing time for every 4 to 5 pounds of turkey.
• Step 3: Once the turkey has thawed, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two additional days before cooking.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of thawing times based on the weight of the turkey:

• 4 to 12 pounds: 1 to 3 days
• 12 to 16 pounds: 3 to 4 days
• 16 to 20 pounds: 4 to 5 days
• 20 to 24 pounds: 5 to 6 days

Method 2: Thawing in the Microwave

The microwave is another option for thawing a turkey, but it requires careful attention. Every microwave is different, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for defrosting poultry. Here’s how you can thaw in the microwave:

• Step 1: Remove the turkey from its packaging and place it in a microwave-safe container.
• Step 2: Follow the defrosting instructions provided by your microwave’s manufacturer. Most microwaves have a special “defrost” setting that will automatically adjust based on the weight of the turkey.
• Step 3: Since microwaving can cause parts of the turkey to begin cooking while others remain frozen, it’s important to cook the turkey immediately after thawing to prevent bacterial growth in partially cooked areas.

Method 3: Thawing in Cold Water

Cold water thawing is faster than the refrigerator method but requires more attention to ensure safety. Here’s how you can thaw a turkey using cold water:

• Step 1: Keep the turkey in its original packaging and fully submerge it in cold tap water.
• Step 2: Change the water every 30 minutes to ensure the turkey remains at a safe temperature. This is important because water temperatures can quickly enter the “danger zone” (41°F to 135°F), where bacteria multiply rapidly.
• Step 3: Plan for about 30 minutes of thawing time per pound of turkey. After thawing, cook the turkey immediately.

Thawing times for cold water defrosting are as follows:

• 4 to 12 pounds: 2 to 6 hours
• 12 to 16 pounds: 6 to 8 hours
• 16 to 20 pounds: 8 to 10 hours
• 20 to 24 pounds: 10 to 12 hours

Additional Support

If you have any questions about meat, poultry, or egg products, the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline is available year-round to assist. You can call them toll-free at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854). The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, with support available in both English and Spanish. The USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline will be open on Thanksgiving Day, typically from 8am to 2pm Eastern Time.

For additional help and questions, you can also contact Dr. Shakera Williams, Assistant Extension Nutrition Agent for Webster/Claiborne Parishes, at 318-371-1371 or by email at sswilliams@agcenter.lsu.edu.Remember, keeping your turkey safe as it thaws is essential for a successful and healthy holiday meal.

The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in their programs and employment.

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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.

November 22, 23

6:30 until 8 p.m., The Walk Through Bethlehem at Pine Grove Methodist Church, 4549 Lewisville Rd., Minden. Visit Bethlehem Market. Music, live animals, Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus; leave with hot cocoa and cookies.

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.

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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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court on Monday, November 25:

ARD, RODRECAS ROGER

99345 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Arraignment SPRING

BABLES, TERESA

INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

INCOMING Obstruction Of Justice

INCOMING Resisting An Officer By Flight

INCOMING Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

codef J. Hollingsworth

A Bond Return WPSD

BOOTH, JONATHAN PAUL

99174 Battery of a Dating Partner

A For Further Disposition WPSD

BURKS, LADORIOUS

98574 Encouraging Or Contributing To Child Delinquency, Dependency, Or Neglect

A For Further Disposition WPSD

BURKS, LADORIOUS

99253 Felony Carnal Knowledge Of A Juvenile

A Status Hearing MPD

CALOME, DEMITA

98917 Ct. 1 Resisting An Officer

98917 Ct. 2 Speeding 11-15 MPH

98917 Ct. 3 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

98917 Ct. 4 No Insurance

A For Further Disposition WPSD

CAULEY, JAMI LYNN

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

Codef: A. Butler

A Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

COILE, HARLEY RAY

99254 Home Invasion

A Status Hearing SAPD

COLEMAN, JR, SYLVESTER THOMAS

97892 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

Competency Hearing

A Hearing MPD

COOK, LARRY

99221 Domestic Abuse Aggravated Assault

A Status Hearing MPD

COOK, LARRY

99180 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A For Further Disposition MPD

COOPER, BRIAN

98883 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Diversion Review Hearing MPD

COOPER, STEVEN D.

99347 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Arraignment MPD

CORNELIOUS, JOHN KERRY

98808 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

A Status Hearing WPSD

COX, KURTIS LAMONT

99329 Obstruction Of Justice

A Arraignment Bond Return Date MPD

EDWARDS, LADERRICK LASHUN

99299 Introducing Contraband Into Or Upon The Grounds Of Any State Correctional Institution

A Status Hearing WPSD

EVANS, NORMAN

98350 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Co-Def: D. Rascoe

A Status Hearing WPSD

FERGUSON, BRANDO

99348-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

99348-CT.2 Distribution Of A Schedule V Controlled Dangerous Substance

A Arraignment SPRING

FERRELL, KAYLA S

98449 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98449 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

98449 CT. 3 Improper Lane Usage

A For Further Disposition LSP

GERMANY, AYENDE TREFFET

99214 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

A Status Hearing SPRING

GILCREASE, JULES STEVEN

97384 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Probation Violation Hearing MPD

GILL, CRYSTAL

T016924 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

T016924A Improper Child Restraint

T016924B Operating A Vehicle Without Proper Required Equipment

A For Further Disposition LSP

GILL, CRYSTAL

T105523 Speeding 25 & OVER

T105523A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

A For Further Disposition LSP

GORDON, GARY MICHAEL

98275 A Status Hearing WPSD

Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000.00 Or More But

Under $50,000.00

Restitution owed to the victim per the report- $2000.00, plus $300.00 fee = $2,300.00 total

GRAHAM, ANDRE DEVAL

99218 Ct. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

99218 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

99218 CT. 3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

A For Further Disposition LSP

HARRELL, CRYSTAL MARIE

99277 Distribution of a Schedule III CDS

A Status Hearing SPRING

HARRELL, CRYSTAL MARIE

99350 Forgery

A Arraignment WPSD

HARRIS, RODERICK TYRONE

99315 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

A Arraignment Bond Return Date MPD

HOLYFIELD, JAMONTAE D.

98186C-CT.1 Illegal Use Of A Firearm During A Crime Of Violence

98186C-CT.2 Second Degree Kidnapping

A Status Hearing MPD

ISLAND, LISH ANTONIO

99359 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

A Arraignment MPD

JACKSON, RODNEY KARL

99346-CT.1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

99346-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

A Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

JERNIGAN, RONALD DAVID

99142 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen

A Status Hearing WPSD

JONES, DANNY RAY

99330 Simple Arson

A Arraignment CPD

JONES, NICHOLAS LEBOB

98010 CT 1 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

98010 CT 2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

98010 CT 3 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

98010 CT 4 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

98010 CT 5 Obstruction Of Justice

98010 CT 6 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

*Arraign on Second Amended Bill of Information (Cts 5-6 added) Co-Def: T. Edwards, A. McClendon

A Arraignment on Amended Bill/Bond Return Date

JONES, TORRENCE DONNELL

98773 Unauthorized use of a Movable less than $1,000

A Arraignment Bond Return Date SPRING

LAYTON, KENTAVIOUS

99336A Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)

Co def R. Dick

A Arraignment Bond Return Date SPRING

LEWIS, NATHANIEL

98992 A Ct. 1 Simple Battery

98992 A Ct. 2 Simple Battery

Co-Def: C. Lucas

A Diversion Review Hearing WPSD

LUCAS, COLBY BENJAMIN

98992 Ct. 1 Simple Battery

98992 Ct. 2 Aggravated Assault

Co-Def: N. Lewis

A Diversion Review Hearing WPSD

MANNING, JAMAREA JAYVEON

99292 Violation Of Protective Order

A For Further Disposition MPD

MCDONALD, CHRISTOPHER J.

99353 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

A Arraignment MPD

MCFARLAND, JR, THOMAS

99222 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

A Status Hearing MPD

MENDENHALL, DARIUS JARAY

99149 Illegal Discharge Of A Firearm – Crime Of Violence / Uniform CDS Law

A Status Hearing SPRING

MIMS, MELVIN KEITHER

99290 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Status Hearing LSP

MIMS, MELVIN KEITHER

97951 CT 1 Attempted Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

97951 CT 2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Probation Violation Hearing WPSD

MITCHELL, JEFFREY J.

98651 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98651 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98651 CT 3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98651 CT 4 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98651 CT 5 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

A Status Hearing SPRING

NESS, LANESHIA SHANTE

98570 Manslaughter

A Status Hearing SPRING

ONEAL, WILLIAM AMOS

97903 Simple Arson

A Status Hearing LASFM

Restitution owed to State Farm Insurance Company- $151,181.90, plus $22,677.29 fee = $173,859.19 total

PEARSON, CYNTHIA ALEXANDER

98425 A Status Hearing LASFM

Arson with the Intent to Defraud

Co-Defs: S. Burton, R. Pearson

Restitution owed to the insurance company- $133,400.40, plus $20,010.06 fee = $153,410.46 total

PEARSON, RICKY

98425 Arson with the Intent to Defraud

Co-Defs: S. Burton, C. Pearson

A Status Hearing LASFM

PEREZ, ELROY AKA ELOY

99069 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

Co-Def: T. Hodges

A Status Hearing WPSD

RICE, QUINTERRIS D

99344 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Arraignment Bond Return Date MPD

ROGERS, ARIANNA BROOKE

99358 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Arraignment WPSD

ROLEN, JOHN STUART

99130 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000.00 Or More But Under $50,000.00

Restitution owed to the victims- $300.00, plus $45.00 fee = $345.00 total

A Status Hearing WPSD

ROMAIN, CAMERON SCOTT

99341 Ct. 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

99341 Ct. 2 False Imprisonment

A Arraignment Bond Return Date MPD

SEAMSTER, BRYON

96985 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

96985A-Ct.1 Improper Lane Usage

96985A-Ct.2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

A For Further Disposition LSP

SHEHEE, ROY K

99268 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

99268 CT 2 Obstruction Of Justice

A Status Hearing MPD

SIMS, BRIAN LESTER

99079 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000.00 Or More But Under $50,000.00

A Status Hearing MPD

SIMS, BRIAN LESTER

97986 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

97986 CT 2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

97986 CT 3 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Co-Def: A. Rosypal (Ct 1)

A Status Hearing WPSD

STEVENSON, MICHAEL WAYNE

99303 Domestic Abuse Battery – Strangulation – 1st Offense

A Arraignment MPD

TELLIS, TOBIAS CONTRELL

99349 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Arraignment Bond Return Date MPD

THOMAS, KHIRY HAKEEM

T099324 Speeding 11-15 MPH

T099324A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

A For Further Disposition LSP

THOMAS, ROCHAUN R.

99270 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Status Hearing MPD

THORNTON, JR., RUSH LAMAR

97908 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

97908A Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

A Status Hearing MPD

TUCKER, JENNIFER ELLEN

99360 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Arraignment LSP

WALKER, JAMES LEE

99243 Ct. 1 Theft Under $1,000.00

99243 Ct. 2 Criminal Trespassing

A For Further Disposition WPSD

WALKER, MICHAEL GENE

99300 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Status Hearing WPSD

WARD, ELDERICK DEWAYNE

99354 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Arraignment MPD

WARREN, JNAI J.

98995 CT 1 Simple Burglary

98995 CT 2 Simple Burglary

A Status Hearing CVPD

WASHINGTON, ANGELA

97148 Second Degree Murder

97148A Obstruction of Justice by Tampering with Evidence

A Status Hearing MPD

WASHINGTON, CHELSEA

99040 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

Restitution owed to B1 Bank- $4,716.69, plus $707.50 fee = $5,424.19 Total

A Status Hearing MPD

WASHINGTON, KEYEZ LASHAWN

INCOMING Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

INCOMING Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Bond Return WPSD

WASHINGTON, III, PRENTIS BERNARD

99158 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

A Sanity Hearing LSP

WEBB, TEKELDRICK

98975 Second Degree Battery

A Status Hearing WPSD

WEBB, TEKELDRICK

98186B Illegal Use Of A Firearm During A Crime Of Violence

A Status Hearing MPD

WEIDNER, BRADLEY JOEL

99143 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Co-Def: A. Bearly

A Status Hearing MPD

WEST, DANA MARIE

99337 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Arraignment MPD

WILLIAMS, TIFFANIE LASHAY

99351 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Arraignment Bond Return Date MPD

WILLIAMS, TIFFANIE LASHAY

T-3211-12 Driving Under Suspension

A Arraignment Bond Return Date

WILLIS, CORTORIA UNIQUE

97893 A Status Hearing WPSD

Issuing Worthless Checks ($999 – $4,999)

Restitution owed: $4,218.36 check amounts + $1,665.08 fees = Total Amount Due: $5,883.44

5/13-paid $200. New balance is 5543.44 as of this date.

WILLIS, CORTORIA UNIQUE

99089 CT 1 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

99089 CT 2 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

99089 CT 3 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

A Status Hearing MPD

WILLIS, CORTORIA UNIQUE

T059923 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

T059923A Switched License Plates

A For Further Disposition LSP

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Austin Wayne Perkins, 29, Shane Dr., Minden; arrested Nov. 19 by WPSO on warrants for no insurance, expired MVI, driving under suspension, fugitive from MPD. Bonds set at $1,500.

Yasmies Ann Frazier, 31, 1100 block Cherry St., Minden; arrested Nov.19 by MPD for aggravated battery.

Emily Marie Butler, 33, Shane Dr., Minden; arrested Nov. 19 by WPSO on two outstanding warrants. Bonds set at $1,500.

Gary Shell, 35, 100 block Puckett Estates Rd., West Monroe; arrested Nov. 20 by MPD on warrants for unauthorized entry of inhabited dwelling, theft, simple criminal damage to property. Bonds set at $27,000.

Kathleen Nicole Brown, 31, 200 block Resident St., Cotton Valley; arrested Nov. 20 by WPSO on outstanding warrant. Bond set at $1,000.

Jadameon Kentrell Lewis, 23, 400 block Gum St., Minden; arrested Nov. 20 by MPD for violating traffic laws as apply to bicycles, lights requirements on bicycles, resisting an officer, obstruction of justice, felon in possession of a firearm. Bond set at $500.

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

November 22, 23

6:30 until 8 p.m., The Walk Through Bethlehem at Pine Grove Methodist Church, 4549 Lewisville Rd., Minden. Visit Bethlehem Market. Music, live animals, Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus; leave with hot cocoa and cookies.

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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The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of November 15 through November 22. Civil Suits are public record.

November 15

Kendy R. Taylor vs. United Parcel Service Inc. Louisiana Workforce Commission Administrator, Judicial Review.

Kendy R. Taylor vs. United Parcel Service Inc. Louisiana Workforce Commission Administrator, Judicial Review.

Kendy R. Taylor vs. United Parcel Service Inc. Louisiana Workforce Commission Administrator, Judicial Review.

Kendy R. Taylor vs. United Parcel Service Inc. Louisiana Workforce Commission Administrator, Judicial Review.

Credit Acceptance Corporation vs. Taylor Reno, Sarah Atkins Lewis, Judgment executory & garnishment.

November 18

Jayson Loyd Wesson vs. Hebert’s Town and Country, Ford Motor Co., Damages.

Emmalyn Claire Capps, Jessica Leigh Roberts vs. Amy Yolanda Sanders Lemmons, Stephen Bryan Lemmons, voluntary transfer of custody.

Regions Bank, Regions Mortgage Co. vs. Edward Nunnery, executory process.

Rebecca Reno Baker vs. Dawson Matthew Baker, divorce no children.

November 19

Credit Acceptance Corporation vs. Dakota Chamblee, Maegan Gilley, monies due.

Tomiqueline Peters vs. Johnny Peters, divorce.

Webster Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission vs. Chasity Disotell dba Doyline Nutrition, delinquent taxes.

Dave Lee Parker, succession under $125K.

November 20

First Tower Loan LLCvs. Erin B. Maness, monies due.

Teddy Alvin Souter, succession under $125.

November 21

Roberta Lynn Miller, succession over $125K.

Helen Eugenia McCary, succession over $125K.

Capita One NA vs. Kandi C. Dupont, monies due.

First Tower Loan LLC vs. Alyssa Ruso, monies due.

University of Louisiana System through Northwestern State University vs. Lisa Fincher, monies due.

Capital One NA vs. Nicholas B. Sentell, monies due.

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Emogene Miller Covington

August 17, 1931 – November 20, 2024

Springhill, La.

Visitation: 10 a.m. until noon Saturday, November 23, 2024, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Graveside service: 2 p.m. Saturday, November 23, 2024, Plain Dealing Cemetery, Plain Dealing, under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Bessie Andrews

March 18, 1933 – November 18, 2024

Minden, La.

Visitation: 4 until 6 p.m. Friday, November 22, 2024, Greater St. Paul Baptist Church.

Funeral service: 10 a.m. Saturday, November 23, 2024, Greater St. Paul Baptist Church.

Burial: 11:30 a.m. Sheppard Heights Cemetery.

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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The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) released 2024 performance scores for the state’s public schools and systems Wednesday, and Webster Parish achieved an overall B rating.

The results show the statewide school performance score has increased for the third consecutive year, as Louisiana students achieved the highest score under the current 150-point system.“Louisiana students continue to make progress. A third consecutive year of growth is a testament to the many talented educators across our state and the student-first commitment from Governor Landry, the legislature, and our board,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley.

Locally, Lakeside achieved the district’s lone “A” rating while Minden High improved five percentage points to move to a high B rating. North Webster High School also came in as a B rated school.

Phillips and Jones improved by five points each while E.S. Richardson increased its score by seven points.

Central Elementary increased 10 full points to move from a C to a B.

North Webster Upper and North Webster Lower were the highest rated Elementary schools in the parish as each came in as high B rated schools. North Webster Upper Elementary received a letter grade of B 84.1 on SPS and increased from a 78.9 which is an increase of 5.2. Their school progress letter grade is an “A.”

Louisiana’s 2024 statewide school performance score improved by nearly two points. The 2024 statewide score is 80.2, a 1.7 point increase from 2023 when the statewide score was 78.5. These results come one year after Louisiana students exceeded the pre-pandemic performance score.

This is the latest data to show Louisiana students are maintaining and accelerating academic gains made since the pandemic.

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By Pat Culverhouse

A Webster Parish man has been charged with aggravated criminal damage to property for allegedly firing shots at a residence, then using the weapon to break windows at the home.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said 18-year-old Samuel Paul Moya, a resident of the 700 block of Oglee Rd. in Springhill, was arrested Wednesday and is currently being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. No bond has been set.

According to investigators, Moya fired three rounds from a 410-gauge shotgun toward the house, then proceeded to break more than a dozen windows using the barrel of the gun. No one reportedly was injured.

WPSO Det. Terry Brown reportedly developed Moya as a suspect after a brief investigation into the incident. The suspect reportedly admitted to the crime during an interview at the Sheriff’s Office substation.

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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Today (Thursday) at 5 p.m. the link will close for this week’s Pick’em football contest in order to ensure all winners are in before games begin tomorrow.

Weekly winners will be notified and announced in the following Wednesday edition of the Journal, and photos will be taken with the owner of our Title Sponsor Under Dawgs. Remember, you must be 18 or older to play.

So fire up your phones or computers and get ready to pick’em.

Here’s your link:

https://form.jotform.com/232385564755163

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By Josh Beavers

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By Marilyn Miller

Joy Journey Davis can hardly remember when she wasn’t singing, dancing and making up songs to entertain her family and friends. One sweet recollection involves singing homemade songs on the way to daycare. ”Mom would always laugh at me and say, ‘Which one are we going to sing today?’”

“When I was a kid, I fell in love with musical theater…like ‘Hairspray’ and ‘Dream Girls’,” Joy recalled. The first musical she performed in was actually “Singing in the Rain.”

She’s not a kid anymore and she’s come a long way in 22 years. She left her native Minden behind and flew out to the “Big Apple” on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, stronger than ever and vowing to never tolerate disrespect…a challenge for anyone in the entertainment industry.

In New York, the multi-talented vocalist, writer, pianist and dancer will live just a short train-ride away from the auditions, which will be lined up by her manager, Randi Rosen, a top entertainment talent manager for Ivy Artists Management. While she auditions, the search also continues for an agent, which would give her a definite leg up.

She plans to audition in many areas of entertainment, not just vocals, dance and piano. That is why she continues to hone her skills with acting classes, voice and dance lessons, modeling practice, and more. “You are never done growing,” she commented. “I’m excited! And rest is something that I find I take for granted. I’m more comfortable when I’m busy.”

Joy probably hasn’t rested since middle school. At Minden High School, she immersed herself in choir, cheer, speech, plays, and musicals. She sang the National Anthem on too many occasions to count. Then there were the community and church programs. Her mentor was music teacher Alicia DuBose. “She had a very positive influence on me. She encouraged me in music theory and got me involved in choir. I love her to bits. When she left at the end of my Junior year, I was crushed.”

She also writes songs, with accompaniment on the piano. “I’m not a great concert pianist by any means,” she added.

Joy’s Senior year at MHS was one for the record books, but there was disappointment, too, well imagined since COVID was raging through the USA. When the Young Women’s Service Club invited her to compete in the Miss Minden 2020 Pageant, she said “yes” for those little girls who would look up to her and see what was possible.

“When I won, I was surprised, yes, but I was excited and happy,” she said. “A lot of my plans fell through because of COVID.” She didn’t get to compete in the Miss Louisiana 2020 Pageant because of her school schedule and COVID.

Joy’s Senior year at Northwestern State University, where she earned her BA degree in Musical Theater in 2023, she auditioned via UPTA, the Unified Professional Theater Auditions, in Memphis, TN. She got 23 “call-backs,” which surprised her, because “apparently that’s a lot!” Also, during her Senior year, she got a “call-back” to audition for “Donna Summer: The Musical” aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines. She and her dad got permission from the school to fly to New York and “I was singing for them, and I stayed and danced for them for the ensemble.” During this time a lot of casting directors asked her why she wasn’t living in New York.

Long story, short, she turned down the job because she was going to be a “rehearsal swing” or understudy, which wouldn’t give her any live stage experience. “At age 20, that is not what I wanted,” she explained. For the next 10 months, she joined the Cumberland County Playhouse (her second family) near Nashville and built her resume by performing in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “All Shook Up,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” “White Christmas,” and more. She met Randi Rosen and starting prepping her portfolio.

Then Norwegian called her back. And after another trip to NY and dancing, singing, and acting auditions AGAIN, Joy spent most of 2024 aboard the “Prema” performing “Donna Summer: The Musical.”

“It was an amazing experience,” Joy beamed. But it was also a lot of work. And she learned a lot about herself and what she will tolerate. It expanded her worldview. “I learned a lot more about my boundaries…what I won’t tolerate. I think sometimes we get so excited about accepting a job, we just jump and accept any kind of treatment.” She came back knowing how to advocate for herself.

This rising star has plenty of advocates for her, her biggest supporters being her parents, Valarie Davis and Tyrone Davis. Her siblings are Patience, Joshua, Jeziah, and Naryia.

As far as leaving Minden, Joy says that she “appreciates all the lessons I learned living here growing up. And I appreciate the people who molded me and encouraged me in everything I did. I’m still going to come back to visit – my whole family lives here!”

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An unusual and special walk-through Live Nativity in the historic district of downtown Minden will be held Saturday, December 21, and what better way to feel the spirit of Christmas but with people from around the local community joining in song to worship the coming of the newborn King. Dr. Dan Gibbs is seeking persons to make up a very special Living Nativity Community Choir of the churches in that district. Please see the above flyer for information. And watch for more information on the walk-through nativity.

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The annual Christmas Toy Program, “Civitan Santa” jointly sponsored by the Minden Civitan Club and Young Women’s Service Club is in full swing.

Each year, the local Civitan Club with the help of the Young Women’s Service Club collects and distributes toys to needy children in the Minden-South Webster Parish area. Members of the Minden City Police Department and the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Department will deliver the toys just before Christmas.

Donated toys (new) may be delivered to Minden police or ANY Civitan member and cash donations may be sent to the Minden Civitan Club, P.O. Box 95, Minden, La., 71058. Several businesses will also have drop boxes for toys.

Application forms may be picked up at the Minden City Police Department and the Webster Community Action office. Applications will be considered for children through age 13.

In order to have all the toys delivered by Christmas, all applications for assistance must be in the hands of the sponsors by December 16.

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By Jessica Gorman

In October 1969, President Lyndon Baines Johnson made a visit to Minden. The occasion? The 125^th anniversary of First Baptist Church.

First Baptist Church was founded in December 1844 as the Minden Baptist Church. Its first pastor was Rev. George Washington Baines. Rev. Baines was, at the time, already serving as pastor for at least two other churches, Rehoboth Baptist Church in Mt. Lebanon and Saline Baptist Church. He served a circuit of churches, rotating Sundays and had just recently helped establish the church at Saline in September 1844. Among the founding members of that church is my own ancestor, Isaac Rushing. It is through the records of the Old Saline Baptist Church that we are able to dispel a myth about George Washington Baines. It had been believed the he originally spelled his last name Bains and, only after leaving Louisiana, changed it to Baines. However, church records clearly spell his name Baines.  In 1850, Rev. Baines moved to Texas where he later served as President of Baylor University from 1861-1863.

Rev. Baines was the great-grandfather of Lyndon Baines Johnson. Serving as the 36th President of the United States, he had recently completed his term in January 1969. As the church was planning its anniversary celebration, an invitation was extended to President and Mrs. Johnson which they accepted. A response was received in July. Addressed to Rev. Ronald Prince, it read:

“The First Baptist Church of Minden holds a special place in our hearts. Nothing would please Mrs. Johnson and me more than being with you for the 125^th Anniversary Service. We are going to plan on it.

As things look now, Sunday, October twenty-sixth, would be the best time for us. We look forward to visiting the Church and to meeting you.

Thank you for asking us. We send our best wishes.”

The Johnsons impending visit drew much attention and it quickly became clear that measures would need to be in place to ensure that the church membership be guaranteed seating for the celebration service. The capacity of the sanctuary was 960. It is estimated that closer to 1000 attended the service that morning. When the Johnsons arrived, news crews, said to number anywhere from 50 to hundreds, were waiting outside the church along with those who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the former President.

The Shreveport Times reported on the immaculate appearance of Minden. This was not only indicative of Minden’s status as a “garden club town,” but also considered to honor Mrs. Johnson’s devotion to beautifying the country. “The lawns of residences on the oak shaded streets had been raked, mowed, and trimmed to almost perfect symmetry.”

The church did its best to honor President Johnson’s request that the service that morning be “just normal Sunday worship services.” He was presented a copy of the church history and, in turn, he expressed his gratitude to the church for honoring the contribution of his great-grandfather. After the morning’s service, the Johnson’s and other guests attended a luncheon at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Walker.

Following the celebration, President Johnson wrote to Rev. Prince again.

“Mrs. Johnson and I can’t remember spending more pleasant hours. You did so much to make us feel welcome and to make our visit a wonderful success. Thank you for a beautiful, memorable day.

We feel richly blessed to have had the opportunity to worship with you and to have experienced your hospitality. We will always be grateful for your kindness and your friendship.”

(Jessica Gorman is Executive Director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Webster Parish Historian, and an avid genealogist.)

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

November 22, 23

6:30 until 8 p.m., The Walk Through Bethlehem at Pine Grove Methodist Church, 4549 Lewisville Rd., Minden. Visit Bethlehem Market. Music, live animals, Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus; leave with hot cocoa and cookies.

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 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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Thursday

Sunny, with a high near 65. West wind 5 to 15 mph.

Thursday Night

Clear, with a low around 37. Northwest wind around 5 mph.

Friday

Sunny, with a high near 62. Northwest wind around 5 mph.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 37.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 66.

Saturday Night

Clear, with a low around 47.

Sunday

Sunny, with a high near 76.

* Information provided by the National Weather Service

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Dubberly, Louisiana – Central Elementary hosted its Grand Friends’ Day in conjunction with the Scholastic book fair.  To say the turnout was large was an understatement.

Librarian and Event Coordinator, Mrs. Hodge-Gilbert notes, “When we began planning this event, we had a goal of 60-70 people attending.  As the sign ups came in we watched as the RSVP list climbed to over 550.  That was when we knew that this event was something that would be truly magical for students and community members.”

Students were proud to show off their family members and friends.  One student had a family member come in from Texas to spend the morning at Central.  As students walked the halls later in the day, they were excited to point out that they had family members join us to celebrate. The joy and excitement was palpable.

Principal, Daniel Lee, adds, “Reading is the skill that all other skills are rooted in. We want the students at CES to succeed in life, and we actively strive to promote and develop strong readers. The book fair is another opportunity to foster that love of reading.”

The book fair will be until Thursday. Mrs. Hodge-Gilbert adds that we are getting a restock of books and will continue to welcome our families who could not make it this morning.  On Thursday the Kindergarten and Fifth graders will have their holiday luncheon at Central.  She adds we will be ready to serve them as well.

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Ephesians 6:10-11

10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

11) Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Many people are facing great attacks on every side from the enemy and some don’t understand that the real fight is not with flesh and blood, but the enemy is behind all the evil that’s taking place in our world today. 

One thing as children of God, we must realize that we can’t fight fire with fire nor can we overcome evil with evil, but we as God’s children overcome evil with good. 

We are living in perilous times, Many are betraying, cursing, plotting, scheming, fighting, disrespecting, hating, and arguing with each other. 

The devil is behind all this confusion and evil that we see in the world today.

We are in a spiritual war, not physical. Our wrestle is not with flesh and blood.

The enemy’s number one tool is deception, and he has blinded the eyes, hearts, and minds of many in the world today. 

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,” Paul says, but “against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Eph. 6:12 )

The evil forces of darkness have been released, and so many people don’t even realize it because Satan has deceived many to believe a lie over the truth. Many call evil good and good evil.   

Are you equipped spiritually for the battle?

When God is about to open a door or do something good in your life, always be prepared for the attacks from the devil and, note this, my sisters and brothers.

The enemy will use the very one you least expect to be his mouthpiece. (We have to remember we wrestle not against flesh and blood.)

Always be prepared and put on the whole armor of God so you can stand against the wiles of the devil. 

Sometimes, we are not properly equipped because we fail to put on our spiritual clothing.  Reading, praying, and studying God’s Word is essential and very important. 

I’m reminded that the Apostle Paul wrote to the Ephesian Church when he was in prison.

He wanted them to be spiritually equipped for battle.

Prayer: Most precious Heavenly Father, we thank you for your grace and mercy. Father, forgive us for our sins known and unknown. Help us to stand on your word and your righteousness. In Jesus’ Name. Amen

Be Encouraged!

All Glory goes to God!

(LaTina DeLoach, a native of Minden, is a Christian,a devoted wife and mother and Lady Deloach as the wife of Pastor Gregory DeLoach, Blue Run Baptist Church.)

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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.

November 22, 23

6:30 until 8 p.m., The Walk Through Bethlehem at Pine Grove Methodist Church, 4549 Lewisville Rd., Minden. Visit Bethlehem Market. Music, live animals, Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus; leave with hot cocoa and cookies.

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.

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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