Most Wanted for this week is Edgar Brooks.

Brooks is wanted by the Minden Police Department in reference to a theft that occurred in the Constable St. area on October 18.  

Edgar Brooks is charged with trespassing and theft with a bond of $1,250.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Edgar Brooks is urged to contact Lt. Kenneth James at 318-532-9083 or the Minden Police Department at 318-371-4226.

All information will be confidential.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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By Paige Gurgainers

The Minden Foundation’s annual “Shoot Out” fundraiser hit another bullseye this year, raising more than $24,000 for local causes and drawing the largest crowd in the event’s history.

Held Saturday, October 18, at Ada Taylor Exit 55, the one-day shooting event brought together community members, businesses and outdoor enthusiasts for a day of friendly competition, fellowship and giving back. With 40 teams participating across morning and afternoon rounds, the sound of shotguns and laughter filled the air as teams competed for top honors in the 3-person sporting clay challenge.

Organizers say this year’s turnout exceeded expectations, both in participants and sponsorship support. 

In addition to the main competition, attendees enjoyed food, drinks, door prizes, corn hole and football on TV throughout the day. A highlight of the event was the raffle for a 4×6 Antler Shed Deer Blind, sponsored by Rocking Rooster Veterinary Services, which helped push total fundraising efforts over the $24,000 mark.

Proceeds from the annual Shoot Out directly support the Minden Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to provide charitable assistance, within the Minden area, primarily for sudden and/or catastrophic needs not specifically met by other charities or organizations. 

Winners from this year’s event will be announced in the coming days, with awards recognizing both individual sharpshooters and team performances.

With record-breaking participation and community support, the Minden Foundation’s Shoot Out continues to grow as one of the area’s most anticipated fall fundraisers – proving once again that Minden knows how to aim high for a good cause.

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Ralph W. Greer, age 73, of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, October 20, 2025. He was born September 14, 1952, in Little Rock, Arkansas, the son of Elbert William “Pete” Orsburn, Jr. and Gwendolyn Elizabeth Greer. He and his sister were adopted by his loving grandparents, Ralph M. (Gingie) and Dada L. (Grand) Greer from Des Arc, Arkansas.

He graduated from Des Ark High School and attended University of Arkansas. He remained an avid Razorback fan his entire life and more often than not he would be seen proudly wearing his Razorback red attire for any occasion. Ralph only worked for two companies in his career in management and sales, Arkla Gas and Fibrebond. Many lifelong friends were made during his time with both companies.  After retirement he joined his wife at her company BSW Advertising, Inc. in Plumerville AR.  He would say he had not retired, he just got a new boss.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Brown of Little Rock; granddaughter, Elaina Greer; grandsons, Rhodes Greer and Cooper Banks; daughter-in-law, Amanda (Stephen) Banks; and sister, Beth (Andy) Byrd. Other than his parents and grandparents, he was preceded in death by his beloved son, David Greer.

The visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 23, at Harris Chapel in Morrilton, Arkansas. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 25, at Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Cemetery located at 5185 Swan Lake Road, Bossier City, LA. Reception to follow at 221 Evangeline Walk, Bossier City, LA. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton, AR. Online Guestbook: www.harrisfuneralhomes.net

Memorials can be made in the name of Ralph Greer to the American Cancer Society, dedicated to Melanoma research. These donations can be made on their website: www.donate.cancer.org

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Louise is available for adoption via LaMa Animal Rescue in Sarepta. 

Louise’s story begins like too many others, she was found abandoned, left to fend for herself with no one coming to claim her. But even after being let down by people, this 3-year-old hound mix hasn’t lost her gentle heart or her faith that someone out there will finally see her.

At three years old, Louise is at that just-right age, full of life and personality but past the wild puppy chaos. She’s got pep in her step, just enough to make walks and playtime joyful, yet she’s calm enough to settle by your side when the day winds down.

Her temperament is as lovely as her spirit. Louise is easygoing, low-key, and loves meeting new people. She fits right in with her playgroup at the shelter, greeting other dogs with friendly curiosity and gentle energy. It’s hard to believe a dog this sweet could be overlooked, but day after day, Louise quietly waits for someone to notice her.

Louise doesn’t ask for much, just a soft spot to sleep, a kind hand to pet her, and a forever home where she can finally stop waiting. She’s ready to give all her love to the person who will give her a chance.

If you’ve been thinking about adopting, let it be Louise. She’s the kind of dog who will remind you every day that second chances are worth it.

Come meet her, spend a little time, and you’ll see what we already know — Louise is something special.

Louise is fully up to date on shots and has been spayed. 

Apply for her here:

 

https://forms.gle/VLWMvcPm7FXDiq9n7

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court on Monday, October 27:

ALEXANDER, ASHLEY NICOLE
99978 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS

ANDERSON, SAMANTHA SHARI
99973 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS

ARMSTRONG, JOHN ISSAC
99883 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

BATTON, JAQUAVA MALIK
99289 CT 1 Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer
99289 CT 2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

BERAUD, KALEB PAUL
98423 Attempted Theft Of A Firearm – 1St Offense

BOYD, JR, SHANNON KEITH
99852 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
99852 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
99852 CT 3 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS

BOYD, JR, SHANNON KEITH
97709 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
97709 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
97709 CT 3 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS

BOYD, JR, SHANNON KEITH
T109924 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T109924A Improper Equipment (License Plate)

BURT, TERRY D.
99877 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

CLARKSON, ISSAC DESHAWON
99259 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or
Controlled Dangerous Substance

CLOUD, DOUGLAS WILLARD
99973A Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense

DAVIS, LAWEZLEON M.
99577 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
99577 CT 2 Simple Burglary
99577 CT 3 Felony Illegal Possession Stolen Things ($5,000 – $25,000)
99577 CT 4 Felony Illegal Possession of Stolen Things ($1,000 – $5,000)
99577 CT 5 Felony Illegal Possession Stolen Things ($5,000 – $25,000)
Restitution per impact statement- $969 plus $145.35 fee = $1,114.35 total

DEAVER, ROBERT CHARLES
99968 Indecent Behavior with Juveniles

DILLON, KIMBERLY
99963 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

DODGE, KAMI
99860 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

DRAKE, ROYTAVIOUS KESHUN
99760 Simple Burglary

DUCK, MICHAEL LYNN
99630 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

FLOURNOY, JR, DAVID
99614 Illegal Possession Of Stolen Firearms

GIFFORD, DAVID W
98789 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
98789A Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

GILLINS, DANYETTA R
99546 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

GRIGSBY, CAMEDRICK SAMAJ
99352A Resisting An Officer

GRIGSBY, CAMEDRICK SAMAJ
99767 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
99767 CT 2 Attempted Distribution of a Schedule II

GRIGSBY, MIKIERRA
99979 Simple Battery
*WPJ Bring to courtroom.

GUTIERREZ -AGUILAR, LUIS MIGUEL
98970 CT 1 Simple Burglary
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

HALEY, JESSICA RENEA
98628 Theft of a Motor Vehicle – $5,000 or more, but less than $25,000
Restitution owed to the victim per the victim impact statement- $947, plus $142.05 = $1,089.05 total

HARTWELL, TYLER JOSEPH
98237 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Fourth or Subsequent

HARTWELL, TYLER JOSEPH
95457 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Third Offense

HENDERSON, KIMBERLY J.
99958 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

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

JOINER, JONCONNOR
91713 Second Degree Murder

JUNE, JAMES EARL
99490 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

LAWRENCE, CHARLES AUSTIN
98628 Theft of a Motor Vehicle – $5,000 or more, but less than $25,000
Restitution owed to the victim per the victim impact statement- $947, plus $142.05 = $1,089.05 total

LESTER, MARSHALL DALTON GAGE
99951 Simple Burglary

LISTER, LAPATRICK
99668 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

LOFTIN, BERNALDO
INCOMING Illegal Possession Of Stolen Firearms
INCOMING Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
INCOMING Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

LOUIS, PETER SIMON
99970 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

MALONE, ANTHONY L.
98935 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS

MARTIN, BRANDON EVERETT
99115-CT.1 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
99115-CT.2 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or Controlled Dangerous Substance

MARTIN, EDUARDO LEVAN
99772 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

MAYFIELD, JR., KEVIN DALE
99352 CT 1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
99352 CT 2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

MAYFIELD, JR., KEVIN DALE
98560 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

MCINTYRE, ROBBIE WILLIAM
99981 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

MILLER, JERRY
99909 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)

MILLER, RUSSELL GLEN
97582 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

MORNING, RICHARD R
98332 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

OVERSTREET, THOMAS CONLEY
99714 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
99714A Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

PARKER, SCOTT DOUGLAS
99630 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

PATTERSON, JEREMY SHANE
97339 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

PATTERSON, JEREMY SHANE
98993 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals

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

RANKIN, LATORIA NICOLE
99953 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

RATLING, KERIKIMERON J.
99581 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or

RICHARDSON, CORWIN K.
99721 CT 1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
99721 CT 2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

RUFFIN, DUSTIN JAMAR BLACKMON
99875 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

SCHINDLER, SHERIANNE
INCOMING Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Obstruction Of Justice
INCOMING Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Under Suspension For Certain Prior
INCOMING Window Tint
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle Without Proper Required Equipment
INCOMING Emanation of Excessive Sound or Noise – First Offense
INCOMING Improper Display Of Temporary Plate

SMITH, DANIEL
99900-CT.1 Monetary Instrument Abuse
99900-CT.2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

SNEED, JANE DENISE
INCOMING Cruelty To Juveniles
INCOMING Simple Assault

SNELL, JACOLBY TYRONE
99557 Attempted First Degree Murder

STAGE, DUSTIN
99962 Simple Burglary

STANLEY, ZYAN ADOMINICK-JAIRE
99557 Attempted First Degree Murder

STANLEY, ZYAN ADOMINICK-JAIRE
98584 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS

STEVENS, MARCUS DARE
99922 Misd Illegal Possession Stolen Things

STEVENS, MARCUS DARE
99524 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

STOWE, DAVID LEE
99262 CT 1 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen
99262 CT 2 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen

STOWE, DAVID LEE
99262 CT 1 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen
99262 CT 2 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen

SUMNER, JUSTIN SHAWN
99038 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

TAYLOR, MICHAEL WAYNE
98870 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

TAYLOR, MICHAEL WAYNE
99710 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

TAYLOR, MICHAEL WAYNE
98870 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

THOMAS, DECARLOS
98338 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

THOMAS, DECARLOS
99186 Simple Arson

TRIPLETT, JR., ROBERT VERNON
99974 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS

TURNER, TEVIN LOVAR
99980 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

WHITE, DEJUAN S.
99685 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

WOODARD, BRETT G.
99859 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

WOODARD, KELLY A
93911 Possession Of A Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance

WOODS, JR., BENJAMIN DWAYNE
98104 Armed Robbery

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A few weeks ago I wrote about winterizing your lawn.  Something else that is important is to use a preemergent weed killer.  Remember those terrible stickers that you had growing in your yard?  Well this is the time to take of business.  I’m going to talk about 3 different chemicals that do the trick.

First is Atrazine.  Atrazine is used on St. Augustine and Centipede grass.  It is not labeled for Bermuda.  The rate is 4.3oz. per gallon of water.  Spray now and again in late February.  This is to take care of those awful stickers and help with the control of crabgrass.  It is really important to spray twice.  Also be sure to add a little surfactant with the mixture.

Second is Prodiamine.  You can use not only on St Augustine and Centipede, but also on Bermuda.  Mix 1 1/2 level Tablespoon per gallon of water and spray away.  Prodiamine does not come in small containers so it is quite expensive but is a very good product.

Third is Ike’s Sandbur and crabgrass preventer.  It contains pendimnethalin.  One quart will make up to 29 gallons of spray.  As with the Atrazine and Prodiamine, you need to spray in October and again in February.  Your kids and grandkids will be happy not to have those stickers in the yard.  

(Mitzi Thomas owns Minden Farm & Garden LLC. Watch for her column on Fridays in Webster Parish Journal. Email Mitzi questions at  mitzithomas40@yahoo.com.)

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Ava Martin, 2025 Webster Parish Fair Queen, was recently presented with a $500 scholarship award provided by the Minden Civitan Club and the Webster Parish Fair Board.

Pictured, Minden Civitan Club President, Steve Bryan, presented the award to Martin following the conclusion of the 2025 Webster Parish Fair.

“We are grateful to Ava for her service to the community throughout fair week with activities including the Fair Parade, Livestock Show awards, and assisting with Senior Citizen Day at the fair,” Bryan said.

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The other day, Ashton – my middle child and our household’s self-appointed truth-teller – looked up from her McDonald’s Happy Meal and randomly said, (completely serious), “Mom, it’s because of inflations.”

Now, a few things about Ashton: she’s seven, she still thinks “yesterday” means anything that happened before breakfast, and she gets her worldly wisdom primarily from YouTube. So naturally, I had to ask, “What do you mean, inflations?”

She sighed (because clearly, I was the one who didn’t understand economics) and said, “You know, Mom. Inflations. It’s when everything costs more money, and now McDonald’s chicken nuggets are like, six hundred dollars.”

I just sat there, torn between laughter and a tiny bit of fear. Because honestly? She’s not wrong!

When I was seven, I didn’t know what “inflation” was. I was just mad when my mom bought the “off-brand” cereal. But these kids today? They’re quoting economic trends between Roblox videos and pop songs. I wouldn’t be surprised if Ashton starts demanding I diversify her savings account next.

It’s funny though – kids really do pick up on EVERYTHING. I guess I’ve complained about grocery prices one too many times. (In my defense, $6.99 for grapes should be illegal.) Ashton has clearly absorbed every exasperated sigh I’ve made in the produce aisle.

Later that day, she found a $5 bill in her backpack from the tooth fairy and asked me if it was “even worth anything anymore.” I told her yes, but by the look on her face, she didn’t buy it.

Ashton might not fully understand how inflation works, but she’s definitely noticed that life feels a little more expensive these days. And honestly, if her generation is already aware of it, maybe there’s hope. Maybe they’ll be the ones to figure out how to make the price of gas and groceries make sense again.

Until then, I’ll keep laughing, she’ll keep learning and we’ll both keep eating our $600 chicken nuggets (because apparently, that’s the going rate for joy in 2025.)

And maybe that’s the lesson here: the world might feel heavier, busier and definitely more expensive than ever, but kids like Ashton remind us to stop, laugh and find humor in the chaos. Because joy (even overpriced joy) is still worth every penny!

(Paige Gurgainers is a mom of three girls, digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal.)

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Tickets to the event, which will include lunch by Chef Hardette Harris, are available now through Nov. 14

Slow Food North Louisiana, a Shreveport-based nonprofit, will partner with Cultural Crossroads of Minden to host “Hand Them Down to Lift Them Up: An Heirloom Food Forum” at The Farm at Cultural Crossroads of Minden, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., on Saturday, Nov. 15. The Farm is located at 419 East Union Street in Minden. Tickets to the event, which will include a special, Edna Lewis-inspired lunch prepared by Chef Hardette Harris, are $40 each for general admission or $35 each for current Slow Food members. Tickets must be purchased in advance at slowfoodnorthla.org/events. Ticket sales will close on Friday, Nov. 14.  

The event’s conference-like morning sessions will spotlight efforts of the North Louisiana Seed Preservation Program to track down and bring back to life regional foods believed to be extinct due to the impacts of industrial food production and budget cuts. In particular, attendees will hear the story of how the North Louisiana-born Red-N-Sweet watermelon was rediscovered thanks to seed-saving efforts, and learn about ongoing efforts to make the seed commercially available in seed stores. Attendees will also learn how to acquire and save heirloom seeds in North Louisiana. Following lunch by Chef Hardette Harris there will be a screening of the 55-minute PBS documentary film Finding Edna Lewis and an in-person conversation with the film’s executive producer and host, Deb Freeman. Also taking part in the day’s programs will be Joshua “Fitz” Fitzwater, a Richmond, VA-based writer, photographer, and founder/publisher of Southern Grit magazine. 

“Hand Them Down to Lift Them Up: An Heirloom Food Forum” is Slow Food North Louisiana’s second event focused on local heirloom foods. Angie White, Chair of Slow Food North Louisiana, said that the goal of the upcoming event is to bring awareness to local food preservation efforts.  

“We want people to know that the North Louisiana Seed Preservation Program exists and that their work is important for our region’s cultural history,” she said. “This program really does center around the work that they are doing to identify foods that were born in North Louisiana but that have, over time, vanished.”  

White emphasized that Slow Food North Louisiana events welcome everyone “who loves food and loves cooking,” not just members of the organization. Farmers and growers, “foodies,” and lovers of local history are especially encouraged to attend.  

Proceeds from the event will support the programs of Slow Food North Louisiana and Cultural Crossroads of Minden. Both organizations are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations supporting local foodways of North Louisiana. For more information on Slow Food North Louisiana, visit slowfoodnorthla.org. For more information on Cultural Crossroads of Minden, visit culturalcrossroadsofminden.org.

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Indiana and Vanderbilt are two of the best teams in the country.

No, this isn’t 1980s basketball. This is today’s big-time college football.

It’s as unstable as Middle East politics.

The buzzword for the 2025 season is chaos. That makes for high-caliber entertainment, unless it’s your team getting surprised, or getting exposed.

The volatility of college sports is at unprecedented levels. The blend of the wide-open transfer portal, the allure of NIL, and the newest reality, NCAA-mandated revenue sharing with student-athletes, has produced a murky chain of command.

The fact that the players at the top end of the NCAA are getting (at least) reasonably compensated is good. The sad reality that those perceived as elite (some who are proving to be) are making quite literally millions, is not.

Can that genie be put back in the bottle? Don’t kid yourself.

Speaking of kidding, think Nick Saban will unretire? Why? It’s not money – he has plenty, he’s making more, he’s working less.

He’s no longer beholden to the whims of a mercenary agent repping the next 17-year-old future Pro Bowler. Or subject to the criticisms of a fan base or fan boys masquerading as media with half-baked podcasts or blogs.

Saban is not the solution for what ails LSU. Brian Kelly’s not the culprit, either. His numbers are not that much different than Saban’s were at this point on the timeline of his days in Baton Rouge. Yes, the signature wins and championships are lacking, but this is not your daddy’s SEC.

The deck has been reshuffled. The NFL has had parity for years. Major college football has just been introduced to the new normal.

Not every game comes down to the closing minutes, but a lot of them do, a lot more than before.

If it’s not your team whose status is hanging in the balance, it’s fun to watch.

It’s also costly to fund. The high cost of being a regular fan is one thing – it just costs more, from parking to tickets to concession stand visits, to team gear, to seat licenses, to renting tailgating slots.

Then there’s the NIL factor. Why are fans wanting coaches fired sooner than later? Because those supporters are really supporting, with their contributions to the collectives. They are not simply invested like the characters in the Dr Pepper commercials. They are pumping more money than ever into the machine and very few are willing to wait more than a little while for ROI.

LSU’s Kelly understands Tiger Nation being disgruntled despite a 5-2 record. Aside from the very real buy-in by donors and fans in the stands, there’s the sky-high hopes across the expansive fan base, heated up by the cool down from the most successful two decades in the history of the program – as good as almost any program at any point in college football history.

Kelly fanned the flames this summer when he unabashedly said LSU was ready to play with the best. Hasn’t panned out. We’ll know for certain after the Tigers try to pull off the Aggie-Crimson Tide two-step, where the degree of difficulty was already extreme before injuries to some of LSU’s best front seven on defense and one of their few solid offensive linemen.

But what was the man supposed to say 2-3 months ago? He was wrong about the O-line and that’s the crux of the problem. He couldn’t have anticipated the still mysterious but undeniably impactful torso injury that helped take QB Garrett Nussmeier from Heisman Trophy candidacy to mediocrity – along with constant pressure from defensive fronts.

“I’ve been 35 years in this business, 35, and it’s ever changing. The stakes are high, the passion is great,” Kelly said Monday. “It’s the nature of the business. It brings communities together, it brings states together. It brings so much hope.”

Barring stunning outcomes in the next 1-2 games, Tiger fans will be tormented for the rest of 2025. But LSU’s program isn’t descending into Dante’s Inferno.

Distressed by this stretch? It’s the turbulence you hope your flight never hits – disturbing, but it won’t last. Unless those in the cockpit panic.

LSU really is too big to fail. Its NFL pipeline is filled with recent, current and future Pro Bowlers, and that means everything to the kind of recruits and transfers needed to keep the Tigers on the top shelf. Tiger Stadium on Saturday is as good as it gets. There’s not a facility or a resource the program lacks.

But dump $53 million buying out Kelly’s contract, and more money to pay out assistants’ deals, and who’s the sure-fire hire to make every year a dream season? Jimbo Fisher? Tom Herman? James Franklin? Lincoln Riley? They all sounded great not long ago. Wasn’t Lane Kiffin run out of Oakland, L.A. and Knoxville?

As Morgan Freeman’s character in Shawshank Redemption, Red Redding, said: “Hope is a dangerous thing. Hope can drive a man insane.”

His pal, Andy Dufresne, provided the counterpoint, reaching that dreamy Pacific Ocean beach that he foresaw in a letter to Red.

“Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.”

Not even with a bad game, or a disappointing season, for your favorite team.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

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It’s Friday and that means Week 8 of our WPJ Pick’em Contest closes at 5 p.m. today. But just remember, we start anew Tuesday with another link and more games from which to choose.

Saturday morning, our subscribers will have parish high school scores from the night before.

Monday we will have stories from the weekend’s local games, so be sure to read those and see how our parish teams fared over their rivals.

Here’s your link for this week, and good luck on next week’s Webster Parish Journal’s Pick’em Contest.

https://form.jotform.com/232385564755163

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Friday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 79. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday Night

A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 61. East wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.

Saturday

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 71. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.

Saturday Night

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Low around 60. Chance of precipitation is 90 percent.

Sunday

A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 72.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 56.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

Oct. 23

5:30 until 7:30 p.m. Trunk or Treat, Minden Library Branch, Webster Parish Libraries. East & West Street. (Rain date: October 27.)

6 p.m. Lakeside Homecoming Parade. Sibley Town Hall to Lakeside High School. (Line up by 5:30 p.m.)

Oct. 25

3:30 until 10:30 p.m., Witches Ride of Minden parade, followed by party in Civic Center parking lot., downtown Minden.

6 p.m. Haunted Hotel Homicide murder mystery, The Oak Cottage, 406 3rd St. WN, Springhill. Registration Required, text 318-272-6093.

Oct. 30

5 until 7 p.m. Trunk or Treat Springhill Library Branch. (Rain date: Oct. 31.)

Oct. 31

4 until 6 p.m., Trunk-or-Treat Fall Fest, Beech Springs Baptist Church, 15910 Hwy. 80, Minden. Games and food provided.

5:30 until 7:30 p.m., Fire District 3 Fire Trucks and Treats, 349 Main St., Doyline.

6 p.m. until 9 p.m., Minden Rec Center Halloween Fall Festival, Minden Rec Center. Free admission and parking with a $1 per person charge for the Haunted House. Activities: haunted house, games, cake walk, trunk or treat.

Nov. 1

11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Minden Maker’s Fair, The Farm of Cultural Crossroads, Minden, www.culturalcrossroadsofminden.org .

11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Old Mt. Lebanon Days Festival, Stagecoach Grail Museum, three miles south of Gibsland.

2 p.m. 22 Hands Up High School Day. Grambling vs. Alabama A&M. To register, call 318-268-2223.

Nov. 3

SKELETOUR winners announced.

Nov. 7-8

9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Piney Hills La. Master Gardeners will hold a plant sale under the downtown water tower in Minden.

Nov. 7-9

Main to Main Trade Days, 50 miles of shopping, Webster Parish.

Nov. 8

10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Paws & Pumpkins, The Lucky Pup, 217 N. Main St., Springhill. Sponsored by LaMa Animal Rescue. Training demo and lessons, photo booth, crafts, pet wellness and more. Please bring dogs on leash.

10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Mission Adoption Bazaar/auction/lunch, First Baptist Family Life Center Gym, Minden.

Miss Louisiana Volunteer, Minden Civic Center.

Nov. 15

9 a.m. until 10 p.m. Hunt for W.H.O. Big Doe Contest. $50 entry, 280 15th St. NW, Springhill. Stateline Showdown (LSU and U. of A.) at Ark-Ana’s! Call or text 318-423-3710.

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Play Sudoku online!

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Zachariahe Jerome Walker, 29, 1300 block Shreveport Rd., Minden: arrested Oct. 19 for disturbing the peace/public drunkenness. Bond set $750.

Dedrick Miller, 44, 300 block Plateau St., Minden: arrested Oct. 21 by WPSO for parole violation. Bond set $2,503.

David Biles, 38, 4100 block Courtland Way, Benton: arrested Oct. 20 by Minden PD on warrant for false imprisonment. Bond set $3,500 surety or $350 cash on new charge; currently incarcerated at BDCC under original  bond of $203,500.

Gregory L. Miller, 64, 100 block Weston Lane, Minden: arrested Oct. 21 for possession of CDS Sch. I (marijuana), possession of CDS Sch. II (Ecstasy), possession of drug paraphernalia, tail lamp violation. No bond set.

Bennie Jabien Holyfield, 19, 500 block Herrington Dr., Springhill: arrested Oct. 21 on warrant for accessories after the fact. Bond set $125,000.

Clara Elizabeth Tobin, 29, 2200 block Shed Rd., Bossier City: arrested Oct. 21 by Louisiana State Police for DWI first offense, speeding, improper lane usage, driving under suspension. No bond set.

Davis J. Moore, 33, no address (homeless): arrested Oct. 22 by Minden PD on fugitive warrant. No bond set.

Bradley C. Warrick, 37, Barmore St., Dubach: arrested Oct. 22 by Probation and Parole for parole violation. No bond set.

Matthew N. Bowers, 37, 200 block Roosevelt Dr., Minden: arrested Oct. 22 by Minden PD for unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, stalking, simple battery. Bond set $30,500.

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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The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of October 17 through 2:

October 17

Republic Finance LLC vs. Mike G. Willis, monies due.
Regions Bank dba Regions Mortgage vs. Michael Casey Williams, executory process.

October 20

Rudiger Karl Deschner, succession under $125K.
Wanda DeMoss Lary, succession over $125K.
First Tower Loan LLC vs. Tommy R. Butler, Jessica S. Butler, monies due.
Golfco of Louisiana LLC vs. Curtis Franklin, Linda Manshake, monies due.
Carrington Mortgage Services LLC vs. Demedric Y. Edwards, executory process.
Carter Federal Credit Union vs. Cory G. Simmons, Hailey R. Simmons, executory process.
Melinda Hunter Kirk vs. Rocky Lane McCoy Jr., protective order.
Erin Wimberly vs. Travis Mullins, protective order.

October 21

Carlton Todd Frazier, succession over $125K.
TBF Financial LLC vs. Specht Newspapers Inc., monies due.
Scott E. Moe vs. Closed Loop Fund, Madden Contracting Company, monies due.
Portfolio Recovery Associates vs. Ashley Scott, monies due.

October 22

Christopher Hammontree vs. City of Minden, The Minden Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Board, petition.
David Anthony White, succession over $125K.

October 23

Gene Patrick Hughes, succession under $125K.
Glenda Gail Roth Johnson, succession over $125K.
Haley Elizabeth Barnes vs. Tyler Dewayne Barnes, divorce.
Bossier Parish Community College vs. Roger Jackson Jr., monies due.
Bossier Parish Community College vs. Kharence S. Harrison, monies due.
Alex Trenton Mills vs. Cathleen Judyth Mills, divorce w/children.
Denise Brown vs. LaQuinntone Denzell King, protective order.
Sherri Stoneking vs. City of Minden, Keith King, wrongful death..

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Virginia Joyce Dick
August 11, 1934  –  October 20, 2025
Cotton Valley
Funeral service: 1 p.m. Friday, October 24, 2025, First United Pentecostal Church, Cotton Valley.
Burial: Cotton Valley Cemetery, under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Germaine W. Lorden
October 9, 1940 — October 20, 2025
Minden
Graveside service: 11 a.m., Friday, October 24, 2025, Whispering Pines Cemetery, Minden, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Charles Randolph Neal
August 20, 1957  –  October 22, 2025
Sarepta
Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Sunday, October 26, 2025, New Sarepta Baptist Church.
Funeral service: 10 a.m. Monday, October 27, 2025, New Sarepta Baptist Church.
Burial: Old Sarepta Cemetery, under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Thomas Lee Houser
April 15, 1969  –  October 22, 2025
Shreveport/Springhill
Memorial service at a later date.

Larry Earl Mills
June 6, 1951  –  October 18, 2025
Springhill
Graveside service: 1 p.m. Saturday, October 25, 2025, Lay Cemetery (Red River Church Cemetery), under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Matthew J Dunfey
June 12, 1955 – October 19, 2025
Ringgold
Private Graveside: Providence Cemetery, Ringgold, under the direction of Rockett Funeral Home, Ringgold.
 
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

Former Minden police Lt. Christopher Hammontree, whose termination from the department was upheld following appeal, has filed suit against the City of Minden and the Minden Fire and Police Civil Service Board.

Attorney Pamela Breedlove, representing Hammontree, filed the suit with the parish Clerk of Court just before noon Wednesday, Oct. 22. The suit will be heard in 26th Judicial District Court.

Hammontree’s August termination by the Minden City Council for violation of a department policy involving tow trucks was upheld by the civil service board during a lengthy hearing Oct. 9.

In the lawsuit, Breedlove claims:

• MPD’s Internal Affairs Bureau never interviewed Hammontree.

• Hammontree was allegedly given three notices: one of a pre-termination hearing, a notice of investigation pending pre-termination hearing and a notice of placement on administrative leave. His lawsuit claims all three were given prior to an Internal Affairs report being written and prior to a complaint being filed.

• Alleges Chief Jared McIver “…clearly decided to terminate Lt. Hammontree prior to the investigation being complete.”

• City of Minden employee manual states discipline of employees is progressive and classifies offenses as Class 1, 2 and 3 with discipline ranges for each. Nothing in the Chief’s recommendation of termination classified alleged offenses by Hammontree.

• On Oct. 9, Civil Service Board arbitrarily and capriciously and without cause affirmed the termination of Lt. Hammontree. Board arbitrarily and capriciously failed to hold entire hearing in public and went into executive over objection of Hammontree. Also, the board allegedly received hearsay documents into evidence.

• Termination was excessive and disproportionate to alleged violations..

In the lawsuit, Hammontree asks that he be reinstated with back pay, including back benefits, retirement system contributions, reinstatement to medical benefits, reinstatement of sick leave and all other benefits lost due to improper termination. 

He is also asking for all general and equitable relief to which he may be entitled under the circumstances.

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Two construction workers had to be extracted from a work truck that rolled down an embankment and overturned on a site just off Interstate 20 near Goodwill Rd. Wednesday morning.

According to reports, the vehicle was attempting to drive around a piece of heavy equipment on a stretch of road which is under construction when it slipped off an embankment. Both workers reportedly were trapped inside the vehicle.

Members of Webster Fire Dist. 7 and City of Minden rescue unit used the jaws of life to enter through the roof of the truck and successfully remove the workers. EMS reportedly treated the two individuals at the scene.

Both reportedly were taken to an undisclosed hospital for evaluation. Their condition is unknown. 

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A celebration and ribbon cutting will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, October 28 at Ronald McDonald House Shreveport-Bossier, located at 9100 Susan Drive in Shreveport, behind Willis Knighton South. Susan Drive can be accessed off West Bert Kouns Industrial Loop.

This event is open to the public.

About Ronald McDonald House® Arkansas & North Louisiana Ronald McDonald House® Arkansas & North Louisiana is a locally funded and operated nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare. Since 1981, more than 67,000 families have been served at Ronald McDonald House programs across Central and Northwest Arkansas. Its newest program, Ronald McDonald House: Shreveport-Bossier opens October 28, 2025, and will begin serving families shortly after. The Ronald McDonald House Family Room: St. Francis Medical Center will open Spring 2026 in Monroe, Louisiana and the Ronald McDonald House: Baptist Health Little Rock is set to open in Summer 2026. Find out more at ronaldmcdonaldhousearnla.org and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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By Paige Gurgainers

The Minden Farmers Market is getting a fresh new look and location this fall. Beginning November 1, the market will be set up in the alley next to Brick Street Coffee in Minden’s Historic Main Street District, bringing local flavor and community charm to the heart of downtown.

The market will be held from 8 a.m. to noon on November 1, 8, and 29, offering residents the perfect Saturday morning outing filled with fresh produce, local goods and live music by Ben Shirley Music.

Organizers say the new location is part of a broader effort to enhance the downtown experience and make it more accessible to visitors and vendors alike. With the cooler fall weather and the backdrop of Minden’s historic architecture, it’s the ideal spot for a seasonal stroll.

The market will feature locally grown produce, farm-raised meats, handcrafted goods and artisanal creations – a showcase of what makes small-town markets so special. From homemade jams to handcrafted jewelry, visitors can expect a wide range of items made and grown right here in the region.

Vendors are still being accepted for the upcoming dates, and local growers, bakers and artisans are encouraged to join the lineup. Those interested in becoming a vendor can learn more and register by visiting this link: https://app.seemylegacy.com/community/2484/campaign/7428 .

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Baton Rouge, LA – Governor Jeff Landry is warning all SNAP welfare cardholders that they will receive no new benefits on their cards starting November 1st due to the federal government shutdown in Washington, DC. Any remaining benefits from previous months can still be used. Updated information will be available to all Louisiana residents through a new site https://dcshutdown.la.gov.

Hundreds of thousands of people in Louisiana receive SNAP welfare benefits. An update from the USDA this summer stated more than 16% of the population in Louisiana receives SNAP benefits. 

“The U.S. Senate is failing to open the federal government in Washington, DC. SNAP benefits are paid for by the federal government in Washington, and we simply administer the program here in Louisiana. Without the funds we cannot provide the benefits. The U.S. House under Speaker Mike Johnson has already acted to re-open the government. Our U.S. Senators representing Louisiana have voted over and over again to re-open the government. They are doing their part. Now it is time for those U.S. Senators, under Democrat Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, to vote yes and re-open the federal government. Louisianans concerned about the lack of funds for this program, or any impacted federal service, should call on Chuck Schumer to re-open the federal government now,” said Governor Jeff Landry. 

The Louisiana Department of Health which oversees the SNAP program in Louisiana will begin notifying recipients this week, based on available information, that November benefits will not be added to their cards until the federal government reopens. In addition, LDH is providing notices (Notice 1, Notice 2) which retailers can post on doorways and in their stores notifying recipients new funds will be unavailable. 

  “All Louisiana SNAP recipients should be aware that there will be no new benefits added to their cards starting November 1st unless the federal government in Washington, DC reopens,” said Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health Bruce D. Greenstein. “We will do all we can to ensure SNAP recipients are aware of this and that retailers are prepared as well. Updated information will be provided on the state’s new dcshutdown.la.gov website as soon as it is available.”

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits that help eligible low-income households buy the food they need for good health. It is a program funded by the federal government in Washington, DC under the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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