Springhill Medical Center, where they treat you like family, is hiring full- and part-time housekeepers. Apply online at www.smccare.com/careers .

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United Christian Assistance Program has the following needs:

We are totally out of canned meats!!

Other Food: powdered milk, canned fruit, canned vegetables, rice, biscuit mix

Household Goods: twin sheets, towels, pots & pans

Clothing: men’s shoes

Thanks to all for supporting UCAP!

UCAP is open from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at 204 Miller Street, Minden, for food, utility and rent assistance. Clothing is dispersed on Wednesdays only.

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Change supports ‘No Wrong Door’ approach to developmental disability services

BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, Oct 21, 2026 – The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disability Supports (OIDD) is transitioning entry into the EarlySteps program from contracted vendors to OIDD regional operations. The six-month transition began in October and will be completed March 31, 2027. Families will continue to receive services without interruption during the transition.

EarlySteps is Louisiana’s early intervention program for children from birth through age 2. The move is part of OIDD’s “No Wrong Door” approach for entry into the developmental disabilities system: Referrals can come from any source, but there is one place for evaluating eligibility. The transition supports OIDD’s vision for a more coordinated, efficient, and person-centered model for individuals and families entering the intellectual and developmental disabilities service system.

The change is intended to strengthen continuity of care and streamline operations, consistent with Governor Jeff Landry’s direction to state agencies. It also supports OIDD’s long-term vision of a coordinated, person-centered system of care for individuals and families.

“Our goal is to make it easier for Louisiana families to connect with the services their children need,” said OIDD Assistant Secretary Bernard Brown. “By bringing EarlySteps entry into our regional offices, we want families to spend less time navigating the system and more time getting the support that can make a difference in their children’s lives.”

OIDD will continue to issue guidance and updates throughout the transition to help ensure a smooth process for families and providers. OIDD and EarlySteps remain committed to ensuring that Louisiana’s children and families continue to receive the early intervention services they need.

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Tuesday

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 81. Calm wind.

Tuesday Night

Cloudy, then gradually becoming partly cloudy, with a low around 56. Calm wind.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 56.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 84.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 58.

Friday

Partly sunny, with a high near 79.

Friday Night

A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.

*Information provided by National Weather Service

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

Every Friday in October

7 p.m. American Legion Post #182 BINGO, Ringgold.

October 29

7:30 p.m. Outdoor Movie Night, Lakeside Jr/Sr High School football field. The Nightmare Before Christmas is featured.

October 30

7 p.m. “It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown” movie in courtyard of First Methodist Minden, 903 Broadway.

October 31

BOO with the Blue: Trick or Treating at Dixie Inn Park.

November 6-8

Main to Main Trade Days, from downtown Minden to Main Street Springhill.

November 7

10 a.m. until 1 p.m., Mission Adoption Bazaar, Craft, Makers Fair, Bake and Casserole Sale, Silent Auction and Lunch

First Baptist Church, Family and Community Life Center, Minden.

All proceeds go to participating families adopting and/or fostering.

4 until 6 p.m., Fall Festival, 814 Constable St. (back parking lot), hosted by The Christian Church at Minden and Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry. Outdoor movie playing immediately afterward.

7 p.m. Movie Night, sponsored by Men and Women of Courage, 314 Dixie Street (behind Seafood Empire), Minden.

November 10

8:15 a.m. Breakfast with the Experts: The Power of Business Storytelling, Greater Minden Chamber Office.

November 11

9 a.m. Doyline High School’s Veterans Day Program. Veterans are asked to arrive between 8:20 and 8:50 a.m., https://forms.gle/4dcPrMHnQnFrQGr18 .

November 14

8 until 10 a.m., American Legion Hall in Minden, Veterans Day Pancake Breakfast, hosted by Minden Evening Lions Club, with support from Webster Parish Veterans Safety Net and American Legion. Veterans and their families are invited to come out, share a meal, and spend the morning together.

November 16-28

Community voting for Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry’s “We CAN make a difference: canned food competition. Vote on the organization’s Facebook page. Each vote is $1. The participants that are open to the public will also have in person ballot boxes. There will also be a passport  for voters to get stamped at each location. Voters can turn their completed passports in to be entered into a drawing for a prize. Winners announced Nov. 30.

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Play Sudoku online!

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Tonya Carroll, 41, 9000 block Hwy. 80, Minden: arrested Oct. 22 by WPSO on warrant for theft of motor vehicle. Bond set $25,000.

David W. Pevy, 50, no address given: arrested Oct. 25 by WPSO on warrant for failure to register/notify. Bond set $20,000.

Kayus Grant Chandler Gros, 23, 300 block Shane Dr., Minden: arrested October. 24 by WPSO for felon in possession of a firearm, aggravated assault with firearm. Bond set $45,000.

Robert Austin Bryan, 32, 12800 block Hwy. 371, Taylor, Arkansas: arrested Oct. 26 by WPSO on fugitive warrant for theft. Bond set $5,000 surety or $460 cash.

John Solomon, 44, no address (homeless): arrested Oct. 25 by Minden PD for possession of CDS Sch. I (marijuana), possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal trespass.

Rodney Lamont Markray, 37, 200 block Shirley Dr., Minden: arrested Oct. 21 by Minden PD on warrant for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines). Bond set $10,000.

Damon Dixon, 27, 900 block Pine St., Minden: arrested Oct. 24 by Minden PD for domestic abuse battery with child endangerment. No bond set.

Paul Edward Mansell, 62, 500 block Kennon St., Minden: arrested Oct. 22 by Minden PD for criminal mischief. Bond set $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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Dr. Thomas “Tom” Joseph Tracy
October 10, 1955 — October 21, 2026
Minden
Funeral service: 11 a.m. Saturday, October 31, 2026, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1107 Broadway, Minden.

John E. “Chuck” Byrd
July 5, 1952 — October 22, 2026
Shreveport/Minden
Visitation: 10 a.m. Friday, October 30, 2026, North Acres Baptist Church, Minden.
Celebration of life: 11 a.m., immediately following visitation.

Judy Jeraline Willis
June 10, 1938 — October 9, 2026
Lisbon
Graveside service: 11 a.m. Saturday, November 7, 2026, Lisbon United Methodist Church.

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 Paige Gurgainers –

Three hundred riders, thousands of visitors and a downtown filled with Halloween spirit helped make the 2026 Witches Ride of Minden the event’s biggest celebration yet. But behind the costumes and festivities was a mission reaching beyond the parade route: putting books into children’s hands and helping build a new home for animals awaiting adoption.

This year’s event raised more than $40,000, bringing its four-year fundraising total to $150,000, according to organizers.

The proceeds will support two efforts connecting children, animals and a celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Every first grader in Webster, Bienville and Claiborne parishes will receive a copy of Henry, the Star-Spangled Spaniel by Louisiana author and Studyville owner Amanda Martin. The book follows a lovable spaniel through American history.

The Witches Ride will also supplement money raised through the 2026 Pet Election to help meet the fundraising goal for Minden’s new animal shelter.

Those causes gave this year’s celebration a distinctive theme, with organizers encouraging riders to draw inspiration from furry friends, America’s 250th anniversary and all things “red, white & BOO” when planning their costumes, coven themes and parade throws.

The response was record-setting. With 300 riders participating, this year’s parade more than doubled last year’s rider count. Thousands of people filled downtown Minden for an afternoon and evening of shopping, food, costumes and family entertainment.

Activities began at 2 p.m., giving families time to explore downtown before the parade rolled at 5 p.m. The day’s lineup included a children’s book reading at Red Blooms, a children’s costume contest and a coloring contest offering two $75 prizes.

Three Little B’s and Shug’s offered sweet treats for purchase, while the festival lineup also included a trampoline attraction, an outdoor movie and live music from The Caravan Band at the Minden Civic Center following the parade.

Beautiful weather helped set the scene, but organizers credited a broad network of supporters with bringing the event together. Thirty-four volunteers, more than 50 sponsors, downtown merchants, vendors and community partners contributed to the celebration. Additional donors supported raffles, the cake walk and other fundraising activities.

In just four years, the Witches Ride has grown from a fun idea into a community tradition that pairs Halloween entertainment with local giving. The fifth annual Witches Ride of Minden is scheduled for Oct. 23, 2027.

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Minden 52, Southwood 13

Sterlington 48, North Webster 15

Lakeside 41, Oberlin 7

Glenbrook 44, Northwood-Lena 6

North DeSoto 78, Franklin Parish 64

Homer 40, Green Oaks 8

Haynesville 53, Lincoln Prep 0

BTW 38, Woodlawn 0

Northwood 44, Bossier 14

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BATON ROUGE, La. — Governor Jeff Landry and State Inspector General and Chief Integrity Officer Angele Davis are calling on State Treasurer John Fleming to strengthen oversight of taxpayer-funded nonprofit appropriations following their review that identified opportunities to strengthen payment practices, financial oversight, vendor verification, and performance reporting.

The review examined appropriations authorized under Acts 3 and 961 of the 2026 Regular Session, which provide $113.5 million for 272 nongovernmental organizations. The Louisiana Department of the Treasury administers approximately $107.2 million of that funding. Davis has outlined recommendations to address these vulnerabilities and strengthen protections for taxpayer dollars. The letter detailing the findings and recommendations is attached here.

Protecting Louisiana taxpayers from fraud, waste and abuse has been a top priority of Governor Landry’s administration. Through LA DOGE and, building on that foundation, the Louisiana Taxpayer Protection Initiative, the administration is strengthening oversight of government spending, improving accountability, and working to prevent improper payments before taxpayer dollars are disbursed.

“Our great Inspector General Angele Davis found serious oversight failures in $113.5M of taxpayer-funded NGO spending. Her work protects YOUR tax dollars. Fighting waste, fraud, and abuse has been my priority from Day One. Now it is up to Treasurer Fleming,” said Gov. Landry.

What the review found

The Inspector General’s review identified several cases that illustrate why stronger controls are needed including…

National Association for African American Economic Development: Treasury advanced $400,000 of an $800,000 appropriation. The Legislative Auditor found that $205,123 moved out of the dedicated account within six months, and required progress and cost reports were not filed. Treasury’s referral stopped the second $400,000 payment.

Divine Kingdom Ministries: After Treasury advanced $37,500 against a $75,000 appropriation, a cost-report review prompted a referral to the Inspector General. The resulting investigation, conducted with assistance from the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, led to the director’s arrest on September 22, 2026, on felony theft and false public records charges. The charges remain allegations unless and until proven in court.

An unnamed 2026 recipient: A review found that the recipient’s cost report did not identify vendors and that $13,000 of $46,615.88 in claimed costs went to connected parties.

An unnamed 2025 recipient: A $250,000 agreement listed subcontractors responsible for 90% of the award as “To be determined,” included a $25,000 flat administrative fee, and authorized a 50% advance based on a one-sentence justification.

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By Shannon Wright –

Sometimes, all it takes is a heartfelt conversation and someone willing to turn the words “can you help me with that” into action.

That is how the Webster Parish Veterans Safety Net began. For Gary Seegers, the mission is personal.

Seegers, a Navy veteran, was working in the oil field when he suffered a back injury that left him disabled.

“For several years I was just lost,” Seegers said. “You don’t know how to be disabled. Nobody knew how to help me.”

That began to change when his mother found a phone number for New Horizons, an organization that helps people with disabilities live independently.

After contacting the organization, a representative came to Seegers’ home. The man was a quadriplegic who was living a productive and fulfilling life. Meeting him changed Seegers’ entire perspective, and ultimately his life.

“After talking to him, I realized life wasn’t over! I just had to figure out how to do it,” Seegers said, “And they helped.”

As fate would have it, Seegers eventually went to work for the very organization that had helped him rebuild his life, New Horizons. Today, he helps others who are facing many of the same challenges he once experienced.

He describes the work as rewarding and fulfilling, but it has also opened the door to another important mission in Webster Parish.

While attending a resource fair in DeSoto Parish through his work with New Horizons, Seegers met Hilton Wells, who was there representing the Department of Veterans Affairs. The two struck up a heartfelt conversation and discovered a shared concern for local veterans, one that was very personal for Seegers.

Wells had been trying to establish a veteran suicide prevention group in Webster Parish but did not have a contact there. Through their conversation, Seegers became a connection that helped bring the right people together to turn the idea into reality.

“It took the right people in the right places and the right time,” Seegers said.

That same heart for helping others recently led to a special day on the water for local veterans and their families.

When veterans contact New Horizons, the organization’s executive director asks a question that goes beyond the usual intake paperwork: What are some things you used to do that you miss doing?

One answer came up again and again; fishing.

Recognizing an opportunity, the executive director reached out to Seegers and asked if he could make fishing happen for the veterans.

Although he had never organized anything like that before, Seegers was honored to take on the challenge.

The result was a memorable gathering at Jimmie Davis State Park, where approximately 20 veterans and their families, about 80 people in all, came together for a day of fellowship, fishing, food and fun.

Heroes on Water stepped up to help make the outing possible, while the park manager worked to ensure the veterans were well cared for. As a veteran herself, she understood the importance of making the day special for those who had served.

Several other community partners helped make the event a success. Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Minden supplied drinks, and New Horizons brought in a food truck to serve hamburgers and hot dogs. Heroes on Water traveled from Junction City to help create a meaningful experience for the veterans and their families.

For the Webster Parish Veterans Safety Net, the gathering was about much more than a day of fishing. It was an opportunity to bring people together, build relationships and remind veterans that they remain an important part of the community.

Organizers hope to make the event an annual tradition.

The Safety Net is also working to build connections throughout the year through its Coffee with Vets gatherings, held on the first Saturday of each month at Huffman Manor.

Veterans are welcome and encouraged to attend, whether they are looking for fellowship, support or simply a chance to sit down and talk with someone.

“We want to build trust, remind veterans that their service is valued and create a stronger, more caring community,” said John “Jack” Rodland, secretary of the Webster Parish Veterans Safety Net.

Rodland said their mission is rooted in the belief that no veteran should have to navigate life’s challenges alone.

“Ultimately, this coalition has the potential to save lives by making sure local veterans know they are not forgotten, that help is available, and that their community stands ready to support them,” Rodland said.

They hope to prevent veteran suicide, reduce isolation and connect veterans with the resources and support they need.

For those who have served, reaching out for help can sometimes feel difficult. The Webster Parish Veterans Safety Net wants local veterans to know that support is available, that their service matters, and that they matter.

Those interested in learning more about the Webster Parish Veteran’s Safety Net, seeking assistance or becoming involved can visit their website at www.WebsterParishVets.org or find them on Facebook.

If you or anyone you know needs assistance from New Horizons, they help the disabled from Avoyelles, Rapides and Vernon Parishes and all Parishes north of them, covering all of Central and North Louisiana.

Their services are free and extend beyond the veteran community to help all individuals with disabilities. Contact them at 318-671-8131.

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Photos and story by Jerry Strahan –

On October 24, I got a call from the fire chief, Kyle Mosley asking me to cover their trunk or treat. I absolutely told him yes.

I arrived and I was greeted by several fire fighters and some adults and children who know me .

There were so many children in costumes that were absolutely cute. They were scattered about the fire department going from table to table to get treats, candy, cookies. My favorite was the cotton candy. Looked like others loved the cotton candy. The fire department did an amazing job for their trunk or treat night.

I was impressed by all of it.

The firefighters who helped put the amazing night together are as follows.

Kyle Mosley, Chief

Whitney Lewis, fire fighter

Michelle Marsh,  fire fighter..

Landon Lewis fire fighter,

Coyie Morgan,   fire fighter ,

Jabcob Howell Assist. Chief

Gunner Brock, Captain.

Kyler Mosley, junior fire fighter..

Terry Glass junior fire fighter.

And special thanks to Pafford EMS.

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By Jerry Strahan –

A look back
Springhill
October 19: low 46°F, high 80°F
October 20: low 44°F, high 81°F
October 21: low 48°F, high 83°F
October 22: low 50°F, high 85°F
October 23: low 50°F, high 84°F
October 24: low 51°F, high 86°F
October 25: low 53°F, high 82°F
Minden
October 19: low 48°F, high 81°F
October 20: low 45°F, high 81°F
October 21: low 47°F, high 82°F
October 22: low 53°F, high 83°F
October 23: low 49°F, high 85°F
October 24: low 52°F, high 85°F
October 25: low 53°F, high 81°F
No rain was recorded in the parish.
We are still in high drought conditions and high fire danger, and the burn ban has been extended to November 17.
See pictures below.
Rainfall data provided by Precip.
Extended forecast
Sunny to partly cloudy. Highs in the middle 80s and lows in the middle 50s. No rain until possibly November 1.
Warmest day of the week was your 86 in Springhill on Saturday — and not a drop of rain anywhere to break the drought.

(Jerry Strahan was a first responder in fire and emergency services for almost 45 years. He lives in north Webster Parish and has written weather articles for other publications.)

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Pick’em players: Week 9 of Webster Parish Journal’s Pick’em Contest has begun, and Minden High School has a bye this week.

You can click below for this week’s games, pick the winning teams and get in the running to win $100. The game closes out at 6 p.m. Friday, and a new game starts Monday.

Our four parish high school teams will be featured in the contest (unless there is a bye), as well as some college and pro teams and two tie breakers.

Each week, the contest closes at 6 p.m. before Friday’s high school games, unless there is a Thursday game, then it closes at 6 p.m. that day.

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

Thank you to all our sponsors this year. In addition to Title Sponsor Under Dawgs, Broken Bean will be our anchor sponsor. Others include Holcomb’s Body Shop, A.J. Price Tire, Brown Chrysler, Shelter Insurance, KASO/KBEF, Express Tax and Title and Mike’s Hometown Spirits with Hugh Woods Specialty Meats and Catering. Please patronize these local businesses.

So, fire up your phones, tablets or computers to pick ‘em, click the button below and get started.

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2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Jesus will meet you where you at!

Jesus will connect with you in your current situation, no matter how broken, disappointed or lost you feel!

God will use your brokenness for his glory and your story to help others.

I’m reminded of the Samaria women, the woman at the well in John 4:1-30. Jesus met her where she was, he told her everything she had done. He met her where she was and she didn’t remain the same, he gave her a new identity.

Don’t allow religious people who only follow certain rituals and practices, but don’t have a genuine connection nor relationship with JESUS Christ, tell you Jesus can’t save or help you.

Jesus is a heart fixer, Jesus makes ways out of no way. Jesus loves you and he will meet you at the well, he will meet you wherever you are today! If your on drugs, he will meet you and deliver you.  If you have a problem lying, he will meet you with truth and deliver you from a lying spirit.  If you are a gossiper, Jesus will deliver you from a gossiping spirit and you will start sharing the gospel instead of spreading gossip.   Whatever habit or addiction you are currently facing, give it to Jesus, he will meet you where you are and deliver you.  It’s a process!!!

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

The Word of God…the Gospel of Jesus Christ gives life to any dead situation!

Prayer: Father we thank you for your grace and mercy. Lord search our hearts and remove anything that displeases you.  Help us and forgive us for our sins knowing and unknowing.  We humbly ask in Jesus’s name. Amen

(LaTina DeLoach, is a devoted wife and mother who shares these words in hopes of uplifting those who read what God writes through her.)Jesus will meet you where you are

By Pat Culverhouse –

Abreon Curry scored four touchdowns Friday and Lucas Owens rushed for 176 yards and two scores as Minden’s Crimson Tide cruised past Southwood 52-13 to snap a two-game losing streak.

Curry’s first score came when he took the opening kickoff 67 yards to paydirt as a Homecoming crowd was barely in the seats.  Just two minutes later, Curry scampered 47 yards to cap a two-play Tide drive following a short Cowboys’ punt.

A Javen Calloway 55-yard pass interception return combined with a 24-yard Kaiden King to Curry TD pass helped the Tide build a 25-0 first quarter lead.

Owens scored from 14 yards out and Jaden Johnson sped 53 yards for a score as the Tide offense continued to roll. Curry’s final TD of the game came 36 seconds before halftime when he hauled in a 26-yard toss from King.

Owens would cap the Tide scoring with a six-yard run in the fourth quarter.

After building a 46-7 halftime margin, the Tide coasted to the District 1-4A win to even its conference record at 2-2 and move to 6-2 on the season.

Minden gained 322 yards rushing for the evening while piling up 418 total yards. On the defensive side, the Tide held Cowboys rushers to 90 yards.

In addition to Owens’ output, Johnson added 80 yards on six attempts and Curry’s only rushing attempt was the 47-yard TD.

King was nine-for-12 through the air with two TDs with Curry hauling in four of those for 55 yards and two scores. Ian Clark caught two passes for 23 yards, Johnson had two catches for 13 yards and Carey caught one for five yards.

Southwood’s offense leader for the evening was quarterback Jayden Carter who completed 11 of 19 passes for 144 yards and a pair of scores to Roger Moore and Charshun Martin.

Minden draws an open date this Friday and next action will come Nov. 6 against Booker T. Washington for Senior Night to cap District 1-4A play.

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By Travis Chapman

The Glenbrook Apaches welcomed the Northwood-Lena Gators and wasted no time reminding them who owned the swamp! The new offensive set was already paying dividends as “Rowdy” Ryan Reagan punched in two first-quarter touchdowns, while the defense slammed the door shut for a 14–0 lead.

The second quarter brought more bad news for the Gators. Huddy Glasscock blocked and recovered a punt, and just two plays later, Luscious Louie Collins, took his first snaps since summer workouts at QB, connected with CP-10 Carson Powell for a 20-yard touchdown! After another defensive three-and-out, the Apaches dialed up a fake handoff and end-around that sent Rowdy Ryan Reagan sprinting 60 yards to the house. The Gators were chasing shadows, and the scoreboard read 28–0!

The Gators managed a couple of first downs before Colt “The Man on Fire” Jellum delivered a crushing hit, forced a fumble, and watched the Apaches recover. Colt-man and Channing Rainey played like they had a personal vendetta against the entire backfield!

The second half brought more Apache fireworks. After hard runs from “The Beast” Carson Whitehead and “Action” Ace Rowlen, the Apaches threatened to score again, but a goal-line fumble gave the ball back to the Gators. No worries—Colt Jellum promptly introduced the Gator running back to the turf for a safety, stretching the lead to 30–0. Apparently, the defense decided the offense deserved a couple of points, too!

Then Collins uncorked a deep strike to Darron Hollingsworth for a touchdown, making it 37–0 to open the fourth quarter.

With the running clock rolling, Glenbrook’s underclassmen got valuable playing time. Eli “Monster” McGarity delivered a big tackle, “Hammering” Hayes Glasscock made a statement stop, and Carson Ovit added another to force third down. The Gators eventually found the end zone, but Hayes delivered a big hit on the quarterback to shut down the two-point try.

And just when the Gators thought the beating was over, the second-team offense had one more surprise. Behind some outstanding blocking, Blazin Brayson Festervan followed a perfectly sealed edge by the offensive line and took off for a 52-yard touchdown, putting the final exclamation point on a dominant 44–6 Apache victory!

Final verdict: Six touchdowns, a safety, a blocked punt, a forced fumble, and a defense that made the Gators wish they had packed a life jacket. The Apaches handled business from the opening whistle to the final score—and even the backups got in on the fun!

Next Thursday the Apaches take it on the road to another district foe in the Lincoln Prep Panthers! 7pm kick! Let’s go route the Apaches on to victory!!

FAMILY ON 3!!!

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By Gray Haynes

The North Webster Knights traveled back down Highway 2 Friday night to Sterlington to battle the Panthers. The Knights started off hot in the game until miscues put them in a hole. The opening kickoff pinned the Knights deep. The first play from scrimmage was snapped from the 18 yard line. J’Quarian Easter fixed that on the first play of the game. The Knights’ senior took a handoff up the middle and broke toward the right sideline for a gain of 57 yards. However, on a third down play, the Knights’ pass was intercepted by Sterlington at the 22 yard line to end the drive. The always stingy Knights’ defense gave the ball right back to the offense. Sterlington faced a 3rd down and 14 and attempted a pass over the middle. Two-way standout, Jardin Gill, intercepted the pass and took it to the Sterlington 25. After a facemask penalty was tacked on to the end of the interception return, the Knights got the ball back at the 10. Another two way standout, Jeremiah Washington, dove over the pile from the 2 yard line to put the Knights on the board. Jake Pipes added the extra point to make the score 7-0 Knights in the first quarter.

Perennial powerhouse, Sterlington, took the ensuing kickoff to the Knights’ 30 yard line where the offense took over. The Panthers met nose tackle, Bryce Parrish, and linebacker, Jeremiah Washington, on three straight plays. On 4th and 1, the younger Parrish brother, Brayden, also introduced himself to Sterlington and stopped the Panthers which gave the ball back to the Knights. On the next play, Sterlington showed why they are a perennial participant in the state championship game as they intercepted a pass at the 25 yard line and returned it for a touchdown. The PAT tied the score at 7 still in the 1st quarter. The Knights went right back to work. Braylon Washington took the kickoff at about the 20 yard line and ran over a few people on his way to a 70 yard kick return down to the Sterlington 10. After three different ball-carriers took the ball down to the 1, quarterback, Justin Stewart, called his own number from the 1. He slipped as he took off and never regained his feet and was spun around at the goal line. His left arm was over the goal line, but his right arm was short. Unfortunately for the Knights, the ball was in his right arm. Sterlington would get the ball back under the shadow of their own goalpost at the 1. Sterlington tried a run up the middle to get away from their own goal line, but Jeramiah Washington seemed to know exactly where the ball carrier was going and met him in the hole for a safety. The score was 9-7 in favor of North Webster.

Sterlington did not panic at all. They forced a punt after the free kick and methodically marched down the field. They scored on a 4 yard run over the right side to make the score 13-9 early in the 2nd quarter. The two point attempt was no good to leave the score at 13-9. After the kickoff, the Knights took over on offense at their own 22 yard line. Easter took the ball over the left side and found a seam. 64 yards later, he was dragged down from behind at the Sterlington 14. On a 4th and long, the Knights dropped back for a pass. The quarterback attempted to throw the ball as he was hit, but the officials determined that the ball laying on the turf was a fumble. Sterlington picked it up and returned it for a touchdown. The PAT was good to make the score 20-9. The Knights still weren’t done fighting. On a 3rd and long, Braylon Washington took the handoff at the 33 yard line. He seemed to be bottled up after a short gain, but he found a way out of the pile and took the ball to the house on a 67 yard run up the left side. The two point attempt was no good to make the score 15-13 in the second quarter. Sterlington took the kickoff and executed the two minute drill to perfection. They completed a few passes to get down near the 30. They mixed in a run and ended up scoring on a sweep with a few ticks left on the clock in the first half. The PAT was good to make the score 20-15 in favor of Sterlington at the half.

Sterlington took the second half out to the Knights’ 47 yard line and began another methodical march down the field. They found the end zone and made the two point conversion to make the score 28-15 early in the second half. The rest of the third quarter was much of the same. A tired North Webster defense had trouble stopping all of the offensive weapons of the Panthers, and the Knights’ offense couldn’t muster any more big plays. The final score of the game was 48-15 in favor of Sterlington, but that score is not indicative of the quality of play that the Knights produced on this Friday night. Next week, the Knights will be at home to face the vaunted passing attack of the Loyola Flyers. It will be Senior Night at Baucum-Farrar Stadium since the week 10 game against Carroll was cancelled.

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Shreveport police seek suspect in residential burglary and firearm theft

Shreveport police are searching for Jeremiah Ja’Vonte Parkerson, who is wanted in connection with an Oct. 5 residential burglary in the 1300 block of Wilkinson Street. Investigators said Parkerson allegedly entered his aunt’s residence while she was at work and stole a purple-and-black Taurus G2S 9mm handgun valued at approximately $300. Detectives reviewed interior and exterior surveillance footage showing Parkerson entering the residence. The victim told police Parkerson previously lived at the home but moved out around June without returning his key. An arrest warrant has been issued for burglary of an inhabited dwelling. Anyone with information about Parkerson’s whereabouts is asked to contact Shreveport police at (318) 673-7300 or Caddo Crime Stoppers at (318) 673-7373.

Eligible organizations, including schools, local governments, camps, and nonprofits, may apply through March 31, 2027, to serve healthy meals to children when school is out for the summer

BATON ROUGE, La. — The Louisiana Department of Education’s Division of Nutrition Support is now accepting applications from eligible agencies and organizations to serve as sponsors and program sites for the 2027 Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), which provides healthy meals to children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, during the summer months when school is not in session.
The federally funded SFSP is administered on behalf of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the state’s education department. Any child aged 18 or younger, or anyone over the age of 18 who is determined by a state or local educational agency or a local public education agency to be mentally or physically disabled and who participates during the school year in a public or private non-profit school program established for the mentally or physically disabled, may receive meals through the SFSP. The program is held in economically disadvantaged areas, or neighborhoods and communities in which half of the school children are eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals during the school year. Eligibility may also be determined by census information, via use of site-level Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) information, or by use of individual eligibility of children.

One dead, one injured in West Carroll Parish head-crash

On Friday, October 23, 2026, shortly before 7 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 17 just north of Waller Road. The crash claimed the life of a 57-year-old man from Epps.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2025 Ford F-150 was traveling south on Louisiana Highway 17. At the same time, a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox was traveling north on Louisiana Highway 17. For reasons still under investigation, the Ford veered left, crossed the centerline, and struck the Chevrolet in the northbound lane of Louisiana Highway 17.
The driver of the Chevrolet, who was not properly restrained, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver of the Ford, who was also unrestrained, was transported to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers urge drivers and passengers to always make safe decisions behind the wheel: never drive impaired, always wear a seatbelt, and avoid distractions. Taking a few extra seconds to buckle up or slow down can be the difference between life and death.

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

Every Friday in October

7 p.m. American Legion Post #182 BINGO, Ringgold.

October 30

7 p.m. “It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown” movie in courtyard of First Methodist Minden, 903 Broadway.

October 31

BOO with the Blue: Trick or Treating at Dixie Inn Park.

November 7

10 a.m. until 1 p.m., Mission Adoption Bazaar, Craft, Makers Fair, Bake and Casserole Sale, Silent Auction and Lunch

First Baptist Church, Family and Community Life Center, Minden.

All proceeds go to participating families adopting and/or fostering.

4 until 6 p.m., Fall Festival, 814 Constable St. (back parking lot), hosted by The Christian Church at Minden and Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry. Outdoor movie playing immediately afterward.

7 p.m. Movie Night, sponsored by Men and Women of Courage, 314 Dixie Street (behind Seafood Empire), Minden.

November 10

8:15 a.m. Breakfast with the Experts: The Power of Business Storytelling, Greater Minden Chamber Office.

November 14

8 until 10 a.m., American Legion Hall in Minden, Veterans Day Pancake Breakfast, hosted by Minden Evening Lions Club, with support from Webster Parish Veterans Safety Net and American Legion. Veterans and their families are invited to come out, share a meal, and spend the morning together.

November 16-28

Community voting for Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry’s “We CAN make a difference: canned food competition. Vote on the organization’s Facebook page. Each vote is $1. The participants that are open to the public will also have in person ballot boxes. There will also be a passport  for voters to get stamped at each location. Voters can turn their completed passports in to be entered into a drawing for a prize. Winners announced Nov. 30.

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Word of the Day: Cajole

Phonetic: /ca· jole/
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition
to persuade with flattery or gentle urging especially in the face of reluctance : coax
had to cajole them into going
to obtain from someone by gentle persuasion
cajoled money from his parents
to deceive with soothing words or false promises
… cajoled himself with thoughts of escape.—Robertson Davies

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