By Gray Haynes

The North Webster Knights welcomed the Homer Pelicans to Baucum-Farrar Stadium for the 2025 Homecoming Game.  Homer won the coin toss and elected to defer their option to the 2nd half.  The Knights took the opening kickoff and marched the ball right down the field.  The Knights converted several key third downs on the drive, but came away with no points due to a fumble at the Pelicans’ five yard line.  The Knights’ defense were, however, stingy as usual and forced the visitors to punt from their own end zone.  The Knights took over at the Homer 40 yard line, and their ground attack took them down to the Homer 14.  From there, quarterback, Justin Stewart, bounced a pass off of a defender’s hands right into the waiting arms of Jameson Harden for the first score of the night.  The extra point by Christian Whitlock was true to make the score 7-0 Knights.

North Webster kicked off to Homer and allowed one first down before forcing the Pelicans to punt to the 25 yard line.  The Knights picked up some yards on the ground before unleashing the air attack again.  A 50 yard pass from Stewart to Ja’Kayden Jackson took the ball down the Homer 8.  From there, Jackson let his brother take over to score on the second of two runs.  Whitlock’s extra point was again good to make the score 14-0.  Homer took the kickoff and drove down to the Knights’ ten yard line before failing to convert on a 4th down and 1.  The Knights ran out the clock content with a 14-0 halftime lead.

Homer received the opening kickoff of the second half and moved the ball a bit before failing to convert on a 4th down and 8 from the North Webster 45.  However, the Knights could not take advantage and were forced to punt.  Homer, then, gave the ball right back to the Knights on a fumble deep in their own territory.  Stewart completed a 13 yard pass to Hayden Nance who just managed to drag his toes in bounds before falling over the sideline.  This pitch and catch set up a 21 yard field goal by Whitlock to make the score 17-0.

The Knights, again, kicked off to Homer.  The Pelicans, again, began marching down the field, but the bend but don’t break Knights’ defense forced a fumble on the North Webster 45 yard line.  On the first play after the fumble, Stewart, once again, connected with Jackson for a 53 yard catch and run for a touchdown.  That made the score 24-0 in favor of the home team.  The next Homer position was stopped by an interception by Chandler McKenzie on the Knights’ 20 yard line.  North Webster moved down the field on the ground but was once again bitten by the fumble bug.  The Knights turned the ball over to Homer on the 7 yard line.

Homer was able to move the ball out of the shadow of their own goalpost until Donte Owens found a Homer pass and intercepted it at the 48 yard line and returned it for a 52 yard pick six.  Whitlock’s kick made the score 31-0 with about 2:30 left in the game.  Stewart finished the game with 6 completions on 9 attempts for 149 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Ja’Kayden Jackson had two receptions for 102 yards and one touchdown.  His brother, Ja’Myrion Jackson, had 10 carries for 48 yards and one touchdown.  Braylon Washington was the workhorse for the Knights on this night with 18 carries for 119 yards.  The Knights are now 3-1 on the season and host Garrison, Texas next Friday night at Baucum-Farrar Stadium.

By Travis Chapman

Friday night lights took the Apaches down the road to Ruston in a huge 1-1A rivalry game where the Apaches fell to the Cedar Creek Cougars for the first time since joining the LHSAA by a score of 31-8.

The Cougars won the toss and started with the ball at the 35. Sugar Slade Lollar and Davis Powell made huge tackles for loss after the Cougar running back made a big gain. The Apaches faced a 4th and goal from the one. The Cougars’ back dove over the line for the opening drive touchdown and never looked back. The extra point was broken up by the Apaches. The Cougars led 6-0 with 7:47 left in the first.

The Apaches took over on the 34 from a great return from Ace Rollen. Huddy Glasscock nabbed a middle screen from Rowdy Reagan for huge gain of 36. Ryder Malone showcased his sticky hands with a big catch to put the Apaches in the red zone. With one-on-one coverage to the 2-guard, Carson Powell, who can jump out of the gym, a flat pass delivered to the corner of the end zone by Reagan allowed the out of position corner back to get back into the play and come down with the football for a turnover in the end zone. On the ensuing defensive set, Sugar Slade Lollar kept showing his dominance on the field and was in on nearly every tackle in the game. The Cougars picked up big yardage into the Apaches’ territory. On a pivotal 4^th down, Dub-Weston Duck, blew through and made a great tackle as the Apaches forced a turnover on downs.

The Apache offense took over on the 31 to try and answer the Cougars as the first quarter closed with the Apaches trailing 6-0. After moving the football a little bit, the Cougars came down with another interception. The Cougars quickly drove it down the field and scored right up the middle and converted the 2pt conversion, 14-0 with 7:50 remaining in the half.

The Apache offense took over on the 29 after the kick-off. The Cougars’ defensive ends continued to gain pressure as Reagan was sacked for a third time which brought up a 3rd and cab ride from the Aapche 16. A great play call was dialed up to throw off the Cougar defensive front. Rowdy Reagan found Darron-The Dime-Hollingsworth and picked up huge first down on a perfectly executed wide receiver screen. But the Apaches’ drive stalled around mid-field and they were forced to punt.

Hollingsworth was back to punt, but the ball was snapped way over his head and out of the back of the end zone for a safety. Cougars led 16-0 with 4:20 left in the first half. The Cougars took over on the Apache 48. The Apaches backed the cougars up and forced a long 4^th down and Cougar punt. Apaches took over on the 25. The Apaches struggled to execute and were forced to punt as again with 1:18 remaining in the half. The Apaches’ defense stood firm as Sugar Slade Lollar and Huddy Glasscock team tackled and forced the end of the half. Apaches trailed, 16-0.

Apaches’ opening possession was forced to punt after some miscues.  On the next possession the Cougars executed perfectly and scurried in from 60 yards for another touchdown. With the 2-point try, the Apaches trailed 24-0 late in the third. The Apaches moved the ball with a running attack of Connor Williams, Carson Whitehead and Ryan Reagan to inside of the 30-yard line of the Cougars.  The Cougars stepped in front of a slant pass and came down with its third interception of the night. The Apaches’ defense backed them up and forced a second and 20. The Apaches forced a turnover after a poor field goal attempt from the Cougars. The Apaches took over on the 20-yard line. The Apaches faced 4th and long after moving the chains twice. Golden Gage White released from the TE position and picked up 15 yards for the first down. Golden Gage continued to pick up great yardage with great hands as they moved into Cougar territory. A great pass from Rowdy Ryan to The Dime gashed the Cougars and set up the Apaches on the 3-yard line. Reagan punched it in for the lone Apache touchdown for the night. Colt-Man on Fire-Jellum (who was drastically held on defense most of the night) rumbled into the end zone for the 2-point conversion. The Cougars still led, 24-8. Apache defense needed a quick stop but was unable to complete the stop where the Cougars worked up a few wrinkle plays to score and make the lead insurmountable late in the 4^th quarter.

Your Apaches were stunned, 31-8 as Cedar Creek celebrated as if they had won the Super Bowl. In the tough loss, the young Apaches will bounce back better than ever. I hope this awakens a fire within them to work, train and have an unwavering focus to get better each week of the season. The Apaches are not out of it and will have a chip on their shoulders going forward to execute greatness!!

Next week the fun festivities of homecoming bring on the great memories to be made for the seniors of 2025. Be sure to get to Apache stadium early as the Homecoming festivities will be a great ceremony to watch and support. Lets show up and show out for our Apaches as they look to dominate a district win against the Plain Dealing Lions with kick off set at 7 p.m.

Family on me..Family on three.. 1-2-3 FAMILY!!!

2025 Webster Parish Fair Daily Events

Tuesday, Sept. 30
5 p.m. Fair Parade downtown Minden
5 p.m. Livestock weigh-in
6 p.m. Poultry and Rabbit Show
NO RIDES UNTIL WEDNESDAY

Wednesday, Oct. 1
6 p.m. Rides start. Armband Nite, Gate entrance fee: $2/rest of week
6 p.m. 4-H Swine Showmanship then Swine Weight Classes (Livestock Arena)

Thursday. Oct. 2
9 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Senior Citizens Day, Minden Civic Center
6 p.m. Rides start. Armband Nite.
6 p.m. 4-H Goat, Lamb, Beef Showmanship
7 p.m. 4-H Dairy and Doug Sale Showmanship.

Friday, Oct. 3
11:30 a.m. Buyers’ Luncheon
1 p.m. Livestock Auction (4-H Show Barn)
6 p.m. Rides Start.

Saturday, Oct. 4
1 p.m. Fair Gates Open
1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Kids Day!
2 p.m. Pizza Eating Contest sponsored by Johnny’s Pizza.

By Travis Chapman

Tuesday night this week, your elementary Apaches travelled across the state to the big-time rivals of the OCS Eagles where your 2^nd, 3^rd, and 4^th grade Apaches beat the Eagles in a WILD overtime thriller, 13-12. While the 5^th and 6^th grade Apaches played a great game but fell 16-0.

Fully expecting to be in a dog fight and playing against ‘home cooking” as normal, your “Little” Apaches started with the ball on offense. This game marked the first time all season that QB, Awesome Austin Ramsey, did not take a 70-yard sprint to the house on the opening play, but Ramsey took the oblong ball around the end for a gain of 15 yards, but was only tackled by a shoestring. Two plays later the chains moved again with great blocking by the Apaches as Wild Man, Wilder Butler ran hard on a counter trap. On 4th and short, the Apaches paved a brand-new strip of asphalt down the middle of the Eagles field for Awesome Austin as he blew into the endzone from 30 yards out for a touchdown. The 2pt try failed. The Apaches led early 6-0 with 1:10 left in first.

On defense, the Apaches had the quick Eagle running back bottled up behind the line, but he broke 2 tackles and scurried for 40 yards where BK Ingles and Awesome Austin Ramsey made the tackle. The next play the giant 4th grade back that “apparently made weight”, ran over everyone who tried to tackle him and trounced in for the Eagle score. But the Apache defense stopped the extra point. The game was locked at 6’s to end the first quarter. The Apaches offense found a great pass play to flip the field quickly, but an illegal procedure backed the Apaches up and turned the ball over on downs. On the ensuing defensive set the Apaches defense stepped up and forced a 4th down. Big Mack, Brooks McCullough made two great tackles to turn the ball over on downs for the Eagles with HUGE tackles for loss. On the first play on offense, Zaine The Knight Train picked up a huge first down. Then Liam Hulk Hurley knabbed a perfect pass from Ramsey to pick up 25 yards with 1 minute left in the half. Big Mack McCullough took the direct snap and picked up big blocks from Nasty Nate Mosely and Wrecking Will Abshire. The Apaches moved the chains for a huge first down. The Apaches marched the ball down the field but ran out of time at half time with the score knotted at 6.

The Apaches stellar defense started the second half. The Apaches forced a fumble right off the bat but an errant facemask flag thrown from across the field gave the Eagles a new set of downs. Big Mack continued his dominance on defense and made a great tackle for no gain. Early into the third quarter, that tackle marked his 7th of the night. The Apaches defensive line, led by Joltin Jett Jones and Nasty Nate Mosley busted up a play in the backfield, but the Eagle QB found a lucky 15 yards and moved the chains. The Apaches pushed the Eagles back for a 4th and long. Hulk Hurley made a great move and met the oversized Eagle back behind the line of scrimmage and stripped the ball right out of his arms and picked up the fumble with 1:07 left in the third. The Eagles defense were not to be outdone and forced a punt to start the 4^th quarter, still tied 6’s.

The Apaches defense forced its second fumble of the night that Hulk Hurley picked up in plus territory. But offensive miscues and yellow laundry backed the Apaches up for a third and very long. The Apaches picked up big yards but faced a 4th down. On the 4^th down play a tipped pass and big hit from the Eagle linebacker on Awesome Austin gave the Eagles the ball and nearly knocked the Apache Star QB out of the game, but he bucked up and accepted the challenge and fought for his War Party Apaches. The Apache defense came out with their hair on fire and forced a huge fourth down with 1:30 left in the contest. The Apaches held the Eagles and took the ball over on the 50. The field General, Ramsey returned to the field and made an exceptional pitch with blitzing linebackers in his face and found Zaine The Knight Train for a big gain of 15 yards to move the chains. But a strange turn of 2 penalties in a row after consecutive huge gains……..(insert eye roll here) backed the Apaches way up with the clock winding down. Quick play calls by Coach Alex kept the Eagles defense on their heels and Awesome Austin picked up a huge gain with 14 sec left. The Apaches threatened after picking up the lost yardage. Ramsey called for the ball and launched a big pass down the sideline and found BK Ingles on a streak inside the 15-yard line of the Eagles. The Apaches hurried and spiked the ball to stop the clock with 2 seconds left. Coach Alex called a QB run all the way. The Apaches faithful that filled the stands were on their feet as Ramsey made one man miss, the clock buzzed at zero’s, made another man miss, picked up a few yards, was hit hard, bounced off the tackle, the roars of the crowd got louder and louder as the stellar QB fought closer to the goal line, but a stretched out Awesome Austin was tackled inside the 3-yard line to end regulation. WHAT A BATTLE!!

With overtime we found the Apaches on defense from their own 25. The Apaches defense made a great tackle on the giant running back. Nasty Nate continued to have himself a day and blew up the Eagle play backwards. The oversized back broke several tackles and scored for the Eagles, 12-6 in OT.

The Apache offense settled in and needed to score to keep the game going with the possession. The Zebra’s lost their laundry a few times again at crucial moments just like they had at the end of regulation, and it forced the Apaches into a long uphill climb. Coach Alex dialed up another great play call where Awesome Austin called for the ball, sprinted out to his left and uncorked bomb down the side line that went over the out stretched fingers of the Eagle safety and into the hands of Big Time, Big Prime, Big Mack, Brooks McCullough who sprinted in for an Apache TD from 27 yards out. The OCS field staff is probably still repairing the crater in the field that was left from Big Mack’s ENOURMOUS spike in the endzone. The Apaches needed to punch in the extra point for the win. Ramsey had picked up a minimum of 3-4 yards around the outside all night. On the ensuing play, the Apaches lined up in their normal package where Ramsey had carried the ball multiple times. Mega Martin Smith made a perfect snap to Ramsey, The Knight Train and Hulk Hurley led the charge to the right, the Eagle defense sold out on the outside run that Ramsey nearly scored on at the end of regulation, but in the words of Admiral Ackbar from Star Wars, “IT’S A TRAP!!!!”. Awesome Austin made one step to his left and found a giant hole behind Will Abshire, Big Bad Brooks Boyd and Joltin Jett Jones and could’ve moon walked like a Smooth Criminal into the endzone for the extra point and the walk off  APACHE WIN!! The underclassman of the elementary sports program remained undefeated after a hard fought gutted out win in hostile territory. This marked the first time the Elementary Apaches won on the home cooked OCS field since 2022.

In the 5^th and 6th grade contest, the Eagles won the toss but deferred to the second half. Your Apaches started with the ball. After some good runs by Action Jackson Shipp, the Apaches faced a long third down but a QB keeper by Ryder Hollywood Hollingsworth picked a first down and a gain of 14 yards. On the next play the Apaches executed a great sold option play had Shipp blazing down the sidelines and picked up 15 yards. Hollywood found stride with another great run. Hollywood spun the most beautifully spiraled pass down field that fell outside of the fingertips of the Blonde Bullet, Brant Bridges that was nearly a touchdown for the Apache offense. The Apaches were forced to punt after driving the length of the field. The Apaches defense held the GIANT OCS Eagles but a deep pass down the field found the 6ft tall 6^th grade Eagle receiver for a touchdown after he slipped off the Apache tackle. The Eagles led at the end of the first 8-0. The Apaches offense moved the ball well but faced a third down. The Blonde Bullet nearly picked up a first down, but the Apaches were forced to punt. On the next defensive possession King Cade made a huge tackle on the giant Eagle running back and forced a big 4th down in plus territory. Captain “Oh My” Captain Powell was at the point of contact with the Eagle running back for no gain but was pulled down from behind by the man he just beat that sprung the Eagles to a first down. Folks, this happened all night and was never called after the same officiating crew called the 3^rd and 4^th grade game like it was the NFC Championship….. But our outstanding Apaches showed their resolve and character and fought through it. The Apache defense stood tall and Hammering Hank Rowton who showed his toughness, made a huge tackle for a loss of 5 and the Eagles turned it over on downs to close the first half with OCS up 8-0.

In the second half, the Apaches defense stiffened up early as Hollywood Hollingsworth showed his defensive prowess and made a Sportscenter highlight reel, complete de-cleating hit on the Eagle running back. The Apaches held the Eagles after a few first downs to a big fourth down. Big G-Grayson Avery and Hammering Hank collapsed on the Eagles to turn the ball over on downs with 2:08 left in the third. On the first play for the Apaches offensive drive, the Eagle cornerback made a great break on a perfectly thrown pass and came down with the INT to close the third quarter. The Eagles milked the clock on the next possession and punched it in late to go up 16-0 with 4:17 left in the contest.

The Apaches offense moved the ball well but couldn’t punch it in to draw the game closer. The second team, Apaches got some great playing time against a slough of athletic and giant Eagles before the clock hit zero. The 5^th and 6^th grade Apaches fought hard but fell short against the biggest 6th graders in the state of Louisiana. This kind of battle will serve our Apaches well as they grow and learn the game, as well as learning what they are capable of through seemingly overwhelming odds. Our coaching staff is unbelievably proud of our Apaches. We’re proud that they play football the right way, with grit, toughness, resolve, and INTEGRITY!

The Apaches have one more game of the 2025 season where we will travel all the way over to the river delta of Rayville, LA next Tuesday, 9/29 to face the Riverfield Raiders. As always, IT’S A GREAT DAY TO BE AN APACHE!!

It’s Monday morning and the beginning of Week 5 of Webster Parish Journal’s Pick’em Contest.

Our link is hot beginning now. Just click, sign up and pick the teams you believe will win each game. It’s free … But remember, you must be a Webster Parish Journal subscriber, and you must be 18 years or older to play.

So grab your phone, laptop, tablet or computer and get ready to pick’em. You could be the next person to win $100 and have your photo taken at Under Dawgs Sports Grill, our title sponsor.

Play away! And Good luck.

Feeding the Knights last week was sponsored by Knights Services. Ed’s Chicken Shack prepared and served. The quarterback club wants to thank them all for a outstanding meal.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 87. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Monday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 66. Calm wind.

Tuesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 64.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 88.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

Sept. 30

Deadline to pick up SKELETOUR skeletons from Minden City Hall.

Sept. 30

5 p.m. Webster Parish Fair Parade. Downtown Minden. See Fair Events separately.

Oct. 2

6 p.m. Lumberjack Festival Pageant, Sarepta Community Center.

Oct. 4

9 a.m. until? Sarepta Celebration Of Friends, former students, teachers and workers of Sarepta High School, Sarepta Community Center, 210 Vines Street off of Hwy. 2, behind Post Office,  

lunch $17 plus $1 for community room clean up. RSVP: 318-847-4270, by September 30.

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

Oct. 8

8 a.m. until 1 p.m., Bayou Dorcheat Fall Paddle, 160 Dorcheat Street, Minden.

Oct. 9

9 a.m. Special class with LA Trust for Historic Preservation meeting for building owners and landlords in the Main Street District, homeowner in residential historic district, realtor, property developer or manager or small business entrepreneur. RSVP at soverall@mindenusa.com .

5:30 until 9 p.m., Seeds Banquet, Minden Civic Center.

Oct. 10

Community starts voting on SKELETOUR skeleton in downtown Minden businesses.

Oct. 11

9 a.m. Festivities begin for Lumberjack Festival in Springhill.

11 a.m., Lumberjack Festival Parade, downtown Springhill.

Oct. 13

6 p.m., Night at the Museum with Brad Dison. The untold story of Sheriff Henderson Jordan and the final pursuit of Bonnie and Clyde. Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, 116 Pearl Street, Minden. Potluck snacks and desserts. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; seating is limited.

Oct. 17

CHANGE OF VENUE 5 until 8 p.m. BIG YEET, in concert, Springhill RV Park on Church Street, Springhill. Free admission to event.

Oct. 18

8 a.m. Registration for Baby Fun Run, Miller Quarters Park, Minden. 9 a.m. run begins.

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.)

Oct. 25

3:30 until 10:30 p.m., Witches Ride of Minden parade, followed by party in Miller Quarters Park., 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.)

Nov. 3

SKELETOUR winners announced.

Ermon Lynwood “Buster” Lewis
July 27, 1937  –  September 24, 2025
Visitation: 1 until 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.
Funeral service: 2 p.m., immediately after visitation.
Burial: Spring Branch Cemetery, Taylor, Ark.

Eva Annette Hunt
June 5, 1962 — September 24, 2025
Doyline, La.
Funeral service: 11 a.m. Monday, September 29, 2025, City On A Hill Pentecostal Church.
Burial: Gardens of Memory, Minden, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Nancy Joann Williams
July 31, 1940  –  September 25, 2025
Springhill, La.
Funeral service: 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.
Burial: Springhill Cemetery.

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.)

Webster Parish high school scores for Friday, September 26:

Minden 51 Woodlawn 6

Lakeside 42 Northwood-Lena 6

Cedar Creek 31 Glenbrook 8

North Webster 31 Homer 0

See Monday’s Webster Parish Journal for game summaries.

By Pat Culverhouse

An alleged major drug dealer is in custody and a large amount of illegal narcotics has been seized after a joint investigation by the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit, DEA Task Force and Louisiana State Police came to a successful conclusion early Thursday.

Tymedrick Jones, who had been identified by task force agents as a large scale distributor of narcotics in the Cullen and Springhill area, reportedly was arrested following a traffic stop in Caddo Parish around 2 a.m.

Officials said the arrest successfully concluded with a large haul of illegal drugs including:

• Approximately 5,100 grams (11.3 lbs.) of methamphetamines.

• 1,100 grams (2.2 lbs.) of cocaine.

• 2,688 grams (six lbs.) of synthetic marijuana.

• 1,344 grams (three lbs.) natural marijuana.

Several thousand dollars was also confiscated, officers said.

Jones reportedly will be facing multiple charges in connection with drug trafficking with the intent to distribute. Additional charges reportedly could be filed as the investigation continues.

“This was a large amount of drugs headed for the streets of our parish that are now in our possession,” Parker said. “It’s a big job and it’s difficult sometimes, but we’re determined to keep drugs out of our parish. Our narcotics unit, working alongside the task force, is performing a great service.”

DEA Task Force members include agents from the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Bossier City and Shreveport police departments and the Louisiana National Guard Counter-Drug Program.

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.

By Pat Culverhouse

Two Minden police officers will soon be coming before the Minden Fire and Police Civil Service Board for public hearings to appeal their August terminations.

Chris Hammontree’s appeal will be heard by the board Thursday, Oct. 9.

Hammontree, a Lieutenant with 16 years on the force, was terminated in August by the Minden City Council reportedly for violation of a police department’s policy covering the dispatch of tow trucks.

He is appealing the decision which came on the recommendation of Chief of Police Jared McIver.

Jason Smith’s hearing had been scheduled for Oct. 16, but has been postponed and a new date has not been set. Aaron Green, counsel for the city council, reportedly was unavailable for the original date.

Smith, who also reached the rank of Lieutenant, was a seven-year veteran of the MPD and head of the department’s Criminal Investigative Division at the time his termination.

His hearing reportedly will focus on two complaints. One will be to appeal his August termination by the city council, which also acted on the recommendation of Chief McIver.

In the second complaint, Smith requests that civil service board members  initiate an investigation into what he alleges are false statements made by three current Minden police officers in reports filed regarding a June meeting at police headquarters.

Hearings are scheduled to begin at noon in the Minden City Council chambers/court room at city hall.

This week’s Most Wanted is Ashley Michele Evans, who lists an address in the 100 block of Eugene Evans Rd. in Natchitoches. Evans is wanted for leaving a local business with a shopping cart filled with unpaid items.

An off-duty law enforcement officer attempted to stop her in the parking lot as she was loading the unpaid items into her vehicle, but she pushed past him. Evans then drove away from the parking lot with the unpaid items.

She is wanted on an arrest warrant for LRS 14:67.A.4(a) theft (misdemeanor), LRS 14:34.2.A.(1) battery of an officer (misdemeanor), and LRS 14:108.A, resisting an officer.

Her arrest warrant has a surety bond amount of $2,500.

Anyone with information on Ashley Evans is asked to please contact Minden Police Det. Matthew Hicks at 318-639-7776. All information will be strictly 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.

Fibrebond, now a part of Eaton, donated $10,000 in AdoptAClassroom.org funding today to North Webster High School. As a business in Webster Parish for 40+ years, Fibrebond has recruited significantly from high schools, colleges, and universities throughout the northwest Louisiana region. The recent acquisition by Eaton, an intelligent power management company, allows Fibrebond to provide employees local opportunities, now with a global reach.

With more than 1,000 workers on site daily, Fibrebond steadily hires for engineering, manufacturing, electrical, and mechanical positions to name a few. North Webster High School’s dedication of these funds towards science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education will help inspire and prepare these students for high demand jobs at Fibrebond.

“On behalf of North Webster High School, I would like to thank Fibrebond for their generous donation. These funds will be invested in our Biology and Chemistry labs for students to explore science in greater depth. North Webster UKnighted!” said North Webster High School Principal Gabe Lyons.

“North Webster High School alumni are well represented at Fibrebond,” said James Reed, Fibrebond and Eaton Integration Leader. “We welcomed this opportunity to invest in our future workforce and the community itself.”

ABOUT AdoptAClassroom.org®

AdoptAClassroom.org is a national nonprofit that partners with donors to provide PreK-12 teachers with the resources and supplies their students need. Since 1998, AdoptAClassroom.org has raised $74 million and equipped 7 million students across the U.S. The 501(c)(3) organization holds the highest ratings from both Charity Navigator and Candid/GuideStar. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit www.adoptaclassroom.org.

By Shannon Wright

When you hear the words Small Town Mayors’ Alliance hosted by the Town of Sibley, “national security-level event” probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. However, when Mayor Robert Smart and Town Clerk Sherry McCann are at the helm, expectations are exceeded and the outcome is unforgettable.

The Town of Sibley kicked off the Small Town Mayors’ Alliance Conference at the Minden Civic Center on Wednesday, September 24. With more than 100 attendees, including mayors, clerks, law enforcement officers, council members, vendors, and volunteers, the event was already set to be impactful. Then it became something even more significant.

Originally scheduled to speak was Sibley native Kelly Lary Johnson. However, in a surprise move that left the room buzzing, she stepped aside to introduce her husband, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Mike Johnson.

In a keynote address that stirred both patriotism and small-town pride, Speaker Johnson focused on core American values: faith, family, and freedom. Addressing a room full of local leaders, he called on them to model their leadership after conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, emphasizing a people-first approach rooted in compassion and conviction.

“His approach was to win over the people. He was motivated by his love for people,” Johnson noted, urging the attendees to lead from the heart.

“We live in the greatest nation in the history of the world, everybody in this room knows that,” Johnson said. “We are the most free, most successful, most powerful, and most benevolent nation that has ever been on the face of the earth.”

Johnson stressed that America’s greatness wasn’t accidental. He credited the nation’s founding principles, deeply rooted in Biblical values, and drew a parallel between the nation’s founders and the mayors and leaders gathered in the room.

The message was clear: Small towns are the heartbeat of America, and it is up to their leaders to preserve the values that make the nation strong.

The event was a reminder of the critical role that small-town leadership plays in shaping the American dream.

This weekend, I officially leveled up in motherhood: I took my preteen, Emerson, dress shopping for her very first homecoming. And let me tell you, I thought I was prepared. I wasn’t.

First of all, homecoming itself isn’t what it used to be. Back in my day, you just… showed up. Now, kids are out here staging homecoming proposals like they’re auditioning for a reality dating show. Posters, balloons, flowers, choreographed TikToks (it is sweet though!)

Then came the dress hunt. Emerson had her own set of criteria, which apparently included: nothing her mother thinks is cute. I’m serious… the second I picked something up, it was dead to her. No explanation needed. Mom liked it? Automatic veto.

Dress number one? Taylor Swift-coded. Which I thought was a compliment, but apparently was not.

Dress number two? Looked like an upside-down mushroom. (Her words, not mine, though I couldn’t unsee it after she said it.)

Dress number three? Practically see-through. Absolutely not!

Dress number four? Too short. And I agreed!

Dress number five? According to Em, it was from the 1840s.” Which, okay, maybe did have some pioneer chic vibes, but I was trying to think outside the box.

And dress number six? The one I thought was “the one”? Way too expensive, but somehow also managed to look like it belonged on the clearance rack in Pretty Woman’s “before” montage.

By the end of the day, we had tried on what felt like 27 dresses (not the movie, unfortunately – that might have been less painful). And do you know how many we left with? Zero. Nada. Zilch.

Apparently, we will be venturing out again next weekend, where I assume my opinion will once again be as useful as a screen door on a submarine. But hey – at least I got some quality bonding time with my girl. And by “bonding,” I mean me silently calculating how much therapy I’ll need after this saga is over.

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

At 2 years and 8 months old, Roscoe has spent far too much of his young life waiting. This 52-pound boy has grown up inside shelter walls, where he’s become known as one of the “long-timers.” While many dogs come and go, Roscoe has been overlooked time and time again, and it’s a mystery why. In person, he is strikingly handsome, with eyes full of hope and a spirit that shines brightest when he’s with people who care.

One of Roscoe’s favorite places is the shelter pond. There, he splashes and plays alongside the other dogs, soaking in those rare moments of freedom. He’s the perfect age, not a wild puppy, but still young enough to burst with energy when the moment calls for it. After playtime, Roscoe is just as happy to stretch out, relax, and enjoy a good snuggle.

What makes him unforgettable, though, is his sweetness. Roscoe is a hugger. He leans in close, wrapping his paws gently around you as if to say, please don’t forget about me. What he wants more than anything is simple: stability, love, and a couch to call his own.

Roscoe has been patient, but he has waited long enough. This gentle soul is ready for a forever family who will see him not as a shelter dog, but as the loyal companion he was meant to be.

Could you be the home Roscoe has been hoping for? His loving heart and hopeful eyes are waiting to meet you.

Please check out Roscoe and all of the other shelter dogs dreaming of a second chance on Petfinder, or reach out directly to LaMa Animal Rescue. Somewhere out there is the family Roscoe has been waiting for—maybe it’s yours.

Email: LaMaAnimalRescue@gmail.com

Compassionate Mental Health Care for Our Community

Springhill, LA — As mental health challenges continue to rise across the nation, Springhill Medical Center is stepping up to meet the needs of our community with accessible, professional behavioral health services—delivered with compassion, confidentiality, and a commitment to dignity.

Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or simply feeling overwhelmed, support is available—and it begins with a conversation.

Mental health touches every aspect of life—from relationships and work to physical health and daily well-being. Yet too many individuals suffer in silence due to stigma, limited access, or uncertainty about where to turn. Springhill Medical Center is working to change that narrative by offering care locally, eliminating the need for long-distance travel, and ensuring that every patient is treated with respect and personalized attention—regardless of background or circumstance.

Springhill Medical Center is proud to offer care through three highly qualified and deeply committed professionals:

• Dee Dee Welch, PMHNP-BC A Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Dee Dee provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and ongoing support for individuals dealing with mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and more. Her approach combines clinical expertise with a genuine dedication to patient wellness.
• Kelly Yerger, PMHNP-BC With over 15 years of experience, Kelly is a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner known for her holistic, patient-centered care. She provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more—bringing clinical expertise and a calming presence to every visit.
• Rayla May, LPC As a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, Rayla offers talk therapy for individuals, couples, and families. She specializes in trauma recovery, grief counseling, stress management, and emotional wellness. Her sessions provide a safe, supportive space for healing and growth.

These three providers see patients at the Doctors Clinic, conveniently located next to Springhill Medical Center. Appointments are available weekly, and new patients are warmly welcomed.

To schedule an appointment, call (318) 539-1701

Mental health care should never feel out of reach. At Springhill Medical Center, we’re committed to making it accessible, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking short-term support or long-term guidance, our team is here to walk with you—every step of the way.

Springhill Medical Center is a 48-bed hospital with a 24-hr. emergency department operating two rural health clinics and an outpatient physical therapy clinic.  For more information on Springhill Medical Center go to www.smccare.com.

By Paige Gurgainers

The Little Warriors Sports Program is kicking off its annual fundraiser to support local youth athletes, running September 29 through October 12. This year, families and community members can purchase popcorn and coffee directly from their phone or computer, with orders shipped straight to their homes.

Now in its fourth year, the Little Warriors program offers football, baseball, softball, basketball and track to students at Central Elementary and 6th graders at Lakeside. The nonprofit currently serves more than 100 children and their families, providing opportunities for young athletes while keeping costs low for parents.

“We began with only 20 players in football year one and now we have 54 players participating this year,” said board member Tara Wallace. “This year, we were able to provide a charter bus to travel to Rayville for an away game for both our football teams, which made the kids feel so special and also helped the parents.”

All money raised goes directly back into the program, funding uniforms, meals, insurance, and full equipment. Volunteers, many of them parents, also dedicate their time to coaching, running concessions and working ticket booths.

In addition to athletics, the Little Warriors have launched a mentorship program with Lakeside High School students in grades 10–12, who guide younger athletes on building character, academic success and leadership skills on and off the field.

“Our program is a true community investment,” Wallace said. “Every dollar raised goes back into creating experiences and opportunities for these kids.”

For more information about the fundraiser or to support the Little Warriors Sports Program, visit their Facebook page or contact Wallace at 318-235-8738. 

The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Monday, Sept. 29:

ALLEN, CHRISTIE L.
99548 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

ANDERSON, DMITRI
INCOMING Felony Carnal Knowledge Of A Juvenile

ARCENEAUX, JENAYA LEEANN
99520-CT.1 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling
99520-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

ARY, ANGELENE
98821-CT.1 Disturbing The Peace
98821-CT. 2 Resisting An Officer

BOLT, NICOLE S
98668 Residential Contractor Fraud $1,000 – $5,000
Restitution owed to the victim – $3,100 plus $465 = $3,565

BURRIS, TEADRIEN ROMOAN
99805 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

CAPERS, TORRY JOVON
99834 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

CHAMP, DAVION
99591 Identify Theft

CLARK, JEREMY LAMAR
99801 Domestic Abuse Battery – 2nd Offense

COLLINS, DONALD RAY
T022125 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

CORNELIUS, KENTRAIL
99819A Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

CRAVENS, ALLTON B.
98115B Second Degree Murder

DICK, ROBERT MCKINNEY
99908 Unauthorized use of a Movable more than $1,000

DICK, ROBERT MCKINNEY
99336 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

EDWARDS, ROTOYA C.
99938 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

ELKINS, SAMUEL EARL
99785-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
99785-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
99785-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99785-CT.4 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS

ELKINS, SAMUEL EARL
98893-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
98893-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

GANTT, CHRISTOPHER
99704 Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment

GARNER, KYRON
99843 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS

GILL, D’MARCUS A.
99479-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99479-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99479-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99479-CT.4 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
MTC 7/25 Please make sure forfeiture of $520 IN US Currency is part of any plea/sentencing agreement.

GILL, D’MARCUS A.
99507 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99507 CT. 2 Speeding 11-15 MPH
99507 CT. 3 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GRIFFITH, WESLEY B.
98868-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
98868-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

GUERRERO, VALENTIN
99808-CT.1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
99808-CT.2 Simple Burglary

HAIR, DANIEL W.
99857 Simple Robbery
Restitution owed to the victim- $384 plus $57.60 fee = $441.60 total

HARPER, JOSEPH ALVA
99705 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

HAWKINS, LATANYA DIXON
98544 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

HAWKINS, LATANYA DIXON
99422 Aggravated Assault

HENDERSON, SHAMEKA M.
99467 Theft Under $1,000
Restitution owed to the victim- $825, plus $123.75 fee = $948.75 total

JOHNSON, JEREMIAH JMONTEZ
99926 Attempted Second Degree Murder

LOWE, DANNA
89526 Theft Of $1500 Or More
Restitution $100,000 to Hilton Baxter + $15,000 fee = $115,000

MALDONADO, ORLIN YOHAM
95877 Money Laundering $3000 or More but Less than $20000
Please make forfeiture of $10,000 US Currency part of any plea/sentencing.

MCEACHERN, CANDACE SUZETTE
98690 Unauthorized use of a Movable more than $1,000

MCGLOTHERN, HAYDEN JAMAL
99612-CT.1 Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer
99612-CT.2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

MCGLOTHERN, JAQUARION O
99732 Aggravated Battery

MEACHAM, BYRON S.
99932 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

MONTGOMERY, DEYAUN L.
99645-CT.1 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
99645-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

ONEAL, CASEY
99867 Disturbing the Peace by Appearing in an Intoxicated Condition

PERKINS, JOHNNY R
98668A Residential Contractor Fraud $1,000 – $5,000
Restitution owed to the victim – $3,100 plus $465 = $3,565

PERKINS, JOHNNY R
T137223 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T137223A Failure to Use Safety Belt

POOL, TRACE TUGGER
99241 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99241 CT. 2 Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test

ROWE, SANTANA D
99699 Criminal Mischief

SMITH, DANIEL
99900 Monetary Instrument Abuse

STRONG, FRANKLIN DOYLE
99839 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

TATE, RODNEY
98988-CT.1 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
98988-CT.2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
98988-CT.3 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
98988-CT.4 Forgery

WALDROP, OLIVIA
99748A-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
99748A-CT.2 Introducing Contraband Into Or Upon The Grounds Of Any State Correctional Institution

WASHINGTON, KATOYER LASHAE
98568 CT 1 Obstruction of Justice by Tampering with Evidence
98568 CT 3 Possession of a Schedule I CDS (Two Grams or more but less than Twenty-Eight Grams)
Notice of court date given by Bossier Drug Court at her graduation 9/3

WEBB, JAMIE LEE
T061422 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T061422A Switched License Plates
T061422B No Insurance

WILSON, DEVYN
96623D-CT.1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
96623D-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)