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

Sept. 25-30

Deadline to pick up SKELETOUR skeletons from Minden City Hall.

Sept. 26

6:30-7:30 p.m., Brushwood Methodist Church of Dubberly will host a Revival.

Sept. 27

9 a.m. until … Minden Lions Club Fall Chicken Charbroil. Minden Walmart parking lot.

1:30 under 4:30 p.m. 2nd Big Annual 22 Hands-Up Food Fest Fundraiser. Doors open at 1 p.m., Minden Community House.

2 until 4 p.m. Taco Tips, American Legion Hall, Minden. Sponsored by We’re Here.

Webster Parish Fair Pageant:

9:30 a.m. Princess Pageant, Girls baby through 18 years, Minden High School Auditorium.

Queen Pageant: 5 p.m. Minden High School Auditorium.

Sept. 28

Brushwood Methodist Church of Dubberly will host a Revival.

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.

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 .

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. 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. 25

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

Nov. 3

SKELETOUR winners announced.

---

Loading crossword puzzle. One moment please.

---

Play Sudoku online!

---

The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of September 19 through 25. Civil Suits are public record.

Sept. 19
North Mill Equipment Finance LLC vs. Vernon Yeager Bennett, monies due.
Capital One vs. Cynthia Lady, monies due.
Crawfish Hole #2 Inc. vs. Conexon LLC, Dixie Inn Properties LLC, damages.

Sept. 22
Jerry Wayne Johns, succession over $125K.
Jerry Alton Thompson Sr., succession under $125K.
Republic Finance LLC vs. Elmiko F. Woodford, judgment executory & garnishment.
Whitney Ivanna Umpires vs. Trey Joseph Fontenot, custody.
Kennedy N. Anders vs. Corey J. DeMoss, protective order.
Jennifer O’Donnell vs. Davidson O’Donnell, divorce w/children.
TD Bank USA vs. Emily J. Smith, monies due.

Sept. 23
Bank of America vs. Ruth Cook, monies due.
Tony Adams, succession under $125K.
Leslie Danyail Bailey Jennings vs. Timothy Scott Jennings, divorce no children.
Roosevelt Warren, succession under $125K.

Sept. 24
Amber Birden vs. GO Auto Insurance Co., Theodis Cornelius, damages.
Sterling Wesley Wells II vs. Haley Elise Monroe, custody.
Tower Loan of Springhill vs. Tyrenski Washington, monies due.
Terry L. Gwin, Rheba Gwin vs. Target Energy LLC, C&W Leasing Corp., TNTX LLC, damages.
Wells Fargo Bank vs. William Washington III, Janelise Toussant Washington, executory process.

Sept. 25
Republic Finance LLC vs. Rosann Hawthorne, monies due.
Ashley Hill vs. Minden Medical Center, Robert Russell, MD, Medical Review Panel.

---

Sherianne Mozel Schindler, 31, 1300 block Dorcheat Rd., Minden: arrested Sept. 20 by Minden PD for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines), possession of drug paraphernalia, vehicle without proper equipment required, modified exhaust, obstructed view, driving under suspension, obstruction of justice. Bond set $5,506.

Earnest Drew, 31, 7500 block Hwy. 371, Sibley: arrested Sept. 23 by WPSO for disturbing the peace. No bond set.

Jane Denise Sneed, 54, 600 block Nella St., Minden: arrested Sept. 24 by Minden PD on warrant for cruelty to juveniles. Bond set $45,000.

Anthony Ary, Jr., 60, 200 block Angelee, Minden: arrested Sept. 24

by Minden PD for simple burglary, theft, criminal trespass, on warrant for theft. Bond set $36,250.

Kevin Louis Clark, 48, 600 block Watts Circle, Minden: arrested Sept. 24 by WPSO on warrants. Bond set $2,000.

Damarcus T. Green, 28, 200 block Abney St., Minden: turned himself in to Minden PD on warrants for aggravated second degree battery, simple criminal damage to property. Bond set $175,000.

Tiffany B. Conley, 35, 1600 block Bellevue Rd., Haughton: arrested Sept. 24 by Louisiana State Police for vehicular homicide. No bond set.

Damion Daquan Jenkins, 25, 400 block Walter Lyons Rd., Minden: arrested Sept. 24 by Minden PD on warrant. Bond set $20,000 surety or $750 cash.

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.

---

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.

Gilbert “Mark” Peel
October 24, 1951 — September 14, 2025
Bossier City
Graveside service: 11:30 a.m. Friday, October 3, 2025, Northwest LA Veterans Cemetery.

Claudia Toinette Sewell
March 5, 1947 — July 26, 2025
Bossier City
Visitation: Noon Saturday, October 11, 2025, Airline Baptist Church, Bossier City.
Celebration of Life: 1 p.m. immediately following visitation.

Leavy Glen Nugent
May 13, 1938  –  September 20, 2025
Plain Dealing
Visitation: 9 a.m. Saturday, September 27, 2025, Plain Dealing Methodist Church.
Graveside service: 2 p.m., Cleveland Cemetery, Lena, La., under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Plain Dealing.

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.)

---

A single-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 518 near Posey Lane Wednesday claimed the life of 63-year-old Eva Hunt of Doyline.

The preliminary investigation revealed that around 1:35 p.m., a 2016 Dodge Durango, driven by 35-year-old Tiffany Conley of Bossier City, was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 518. For reasons still under investigation, the Dodge exited the roadway, collided with an embankment, and overturned.

Hunt, who was properly restrained in the front passenger seat, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Conley, who was also properly restrained at the time of the crash, sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. 

During the investigation, impairment on the part of Conley was suspected. Conley was subsequently placed under arrest and processed in the Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center for vehicular homicide. Standard toxicology samples were collected and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation by Louisiana State Police.

---

By Bonnie Culverhouse

The exterior of Minden’s new animal control center is “dry” with all walls and a roof, while workers await the opportunity to move inside.

The building is around 1,800 square feet  (under roof), around half of which is offices, space for 12 inside canine kennels – twice the number as the current shelter – 6 outdoor and a room for cats. Preliminary estimates were around $350,000 to $400,000. Keithville-based Blackrock Construction was awarded the job with a bid of $294,185.

Minden Mayor Nick Cox said there have been a few minor change orders since the council meeting where Blackrock was approved, but he believes the cost will not change much.

“There was a need for outside electrical receptacles which, after those are added, they should be able to put the siding on the building,” Cox said.

The building is “in the dry” now, however, no electricity or plumbing have been added yet.

Carrie Ford, director of Animal Control, is excited for the prospect of space that will allow her to train some of the canines before adoption. Currently, there is one dog housed at the shelter. Her adoption has been approved and she is awaiting her spay before her new family takes her home.

Minden Animal Control is certified as a “Kill Shelter,” but Cox said since Ford has been director, no animals have been euthanized.

It’s a thankless job,” Cox said of animal control. “Carrie has the heart and brains for it. She doesn’t just do the job, she is the job.”

There is no set date for the new shelter’s completion, and fundraising continues for the job. A portion of the building was paid by a grant and American Rescue Plan Spending (ARPA) funds.

Send donations to City of Minden, 520 Broadway, Minden, LA 71055 or City of Minden, P. O. Box 580, Minden, LA 71058-0580.

---

The Boil Advisory issued on 9/18/25, for the following areas has been lifted:

• 200 and 300 blocks of Ellis Drive;
• the 1100, 1200, and 1300 blocks of Howard Street;
• the 200 block of Virginia Avenue;
• the 900 and 1100 blocks of Constable Street;
• the 300 block of Martin Circle; and
• the 300 block of Susan Circle.

The Boil Water Advisory issued on 9/19/25, for the following areas has been lifted:

• the 700 block of East Street;
• the 400 and 500 blocks of Searles Street;
• the 400 and 500 blocks of Chestnut Street; and
• the 600 block of Cherry Street.

Please visit mindenusa.com for further information.

Continue your article here…

---

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.

---

2025 Webster Parish Fair begins next Tuesday, with rides in motion one week from today. Here is a list of the 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 Jessica Gorman

As an actual address, 120 Pearl Street has not been in use for some time.  Nearly 100 years ago, it was built by the Drake Estate to house Jefferson Garage. Just a few months before, A.M Godwin had bought out his employers at Dobbs Garage, renamed the business, and continued operation at 114 Pearl Street, now the location of Landmark Surveying, before moving just a few doors down. In March 1931, Mr. Godwin’s wife, Eva, opened Eva’s Smart Shop at the same address featuring a line of dresses she purchased in Dallas. Jefferson Garage moved again the following year, this time to Broadway.   

The next business I find evidence of at 120 Pearl Street is Electric Appliances of Minden, featured in an ad in 1935. Then in January 1937, the Tri-State bus station moved to this location, replacing the Rushing Candy Company. Just two years later, a new bus station, the first air-conditioned building in Minden, was constructed on Broadway.

After the bus station moved out, the building became the home of the Richardson Clinic. This is the most interesting part of its story. Dr. S. M. Richardson, Sr., along with his son Dr. S.M. Richardson, Jr., opened the clinic in August 1939. The clinic included an office for each doctor with two separate waiting rooms, an x-ray room, operating room, lab, and two patient rooms and boasted the most modern equipment available. Another son, Dr. T. A. Richardson, joined the practice the following summer and construction of an addition to the rear of the building began. That new addition provided another 1300 square feet and included four new patient rooms. A hallway ran down the middle to the new operating room spanning the width of the building with large windows that allowed plenty of light. That space was opened to the public, 21 September 1940, almost exactly 85 years ago.

Not only were operations performed in this building, but babies were born there. The only source I currently have is the numerous birth announcements in the newspaper indicating the babies born in the clinic. While some give the name of the baby, many only include the name of the parents and the sex of the baby. I plan to work my way through all the announcements I can find to identify as many of those babies as I can.

In October 1940, another service was added to the clinic, dentistry. Dr. J.H. Connell graduated and began his practice at the Richardson Clinic. Sixteen years later, a new clinic was built on what is now Sheppard Street. Dr. W. Cloud Bradford, Dr. S.F. Martin, and Dr. C.M. Baker all moved their offices from the Miller building on Main Street to 120 Pearl Street. In 1969, Dr. Richard Baker had his office there.

Meanwhile, the adjacent buildings at 116 and 118 Pearl Street housed The Minden Herald and Webster Review newspaper office and Webster Printing for a number of years. In November 1955, Mrs. Lilla Spiva sold the newspaper, but continued to operate Webster Printing offering printing services and office supplies. In 1974, the printing portion of the business moved to Broadway and retained the Webster Printing name while the office supply part stayed on Pearl Street. Owned by Mr. and Mrs. Major DePingre, it was renamed Major Office Supply and 120 Pearl Street came to be part of that business.

In 2013, the building was sold to the Dorcheat Historical Association and Museum. Renovations began and were subsequently halted. This year, that project resumed and renovations to a large portion of the building have been completed. The rear part, where the operating room was once located, must wait until the necessary funding is in place. One day, that space will hopefully house a new office and research library and once again be utilized to serve the public.

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

---

Louisiana Tech University has announced the names of students on its Summer Quarter 2025 President’s and Dean’s honor lists.

Students whose names are followed by an asterisk earned recognition as members of the president’s honor list. That distinction signifies achievement of at least a 3.8 academic grade point average on a minimum of nine semester hours completed (100-level or higher), with no grade lower than a B.
To be eligible for the dean’s honor lists, a student is required to earn at least a 3.5 academic grade point average with no grade lower than a C on a minimum of nine semester hours completed (100-level or higher).

Courses yielding satisfactory/failure grades and courses audited do not count toward eligibility for either recognition. Only undergraduates with no incomplete grades are eligible to make either list.
Honor students are listed below by the hometown they have entered in their Workday Student profile.

Webster Parish
Doyline: Jaylen Russell
Minden: Haitham Khattab, Jacob Tinsley*

---

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

AINSWORTH, KIMBERLY
99753 CT 1 Simple Battery
99753 CT 2 Simple Assault
99753 CT 3 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000
99753 CT 4 Resisting An Officer

BAILEY, BARRON SEMAJ
94784 CT 1 Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance, to wit: Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
94784 CT 2 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or Controlled Dangerous Substance

BAILEY, BARRON SEMAJ
94980 CT 1 Second Degree Murder
94980 CT 2 First Degree Feticide
$1797.33 restitution, $270 Fee = $2,067.33

BAILEY, BARRON SEMAJ
94980 CT 1 Second Degree Murder
94980 CT 2 First Degree Feticide
$1797.33 restitution, $270 Fee = $2,067.33

BAILEY, BARRON SEMAJ
94980 CT 1 Second Degree Murder
94980 CT 2 First Degree Feticide
*BDCC OC 9/22 Total Bond $800,000 Defendants pro se Motion to Reduce Bond
$1797.33 restitution, $270 Fee = $2,067.33

BAILEY, BARRON SEMAJ
94236 Illegal Possession Of Stolen Firearms

BILLUPS, JUSTIN S
99913 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99913 CT. 2 Improper Passing
99913 CT. 3 Speeding 11-15 MPH

CHAMP, BERT B.
99750 Intentional Littering

COLLINS, AMANDA NICOLE
99754 CT 1 Simple Battery
99754 CT 2 Simple Assault

COUCH, MARSHUNDA LASHAY
T110524 Switched License Plates
T110524A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T110524B Operating A Vehicle Without Proof Of Insurance
Provide proof of Valid DL and Insurance

COUCH, ZANDER
99935 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

COURTNEY, JR, TROY LEROY NORTON
INCOMING Hit and Run Driving
INCOMING Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
INCOMING Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
*ARR 10/31

CROWLEY, ALAN DALE
99615 CT 1 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 2 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 3 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 4 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 5 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals

CROWLEY, KIMBERLY B.
99615 CT 1 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 2 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 3 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 4 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 5 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals

FLOW, NICKY TERRAL
99694 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

GRAY, C. BRAXTON
99914 CT 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense
99914 CT 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
99914 CT 3 Unlawful Refusal To Submit To Chemical Test

GREEN, EVANGELA C.
98245 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
98245 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
*DA Motion to set aside conviction and dismiss prosecution

HARRIS, LAJAYDEN VIDALE
99683 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

JONES, TRISTAN LEE
99927 Possession of CDS I Marijuana (More Than Fourteen Grams)

MARSH, KEVIN CHASE
99929 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense
99929 CT. 2 Speeding 25 & OVER
99929 CT. 3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
99929 CT. 4 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

MILLER, TYLER
99910-CT.1 Simple Assault
99910-CT.2 Resisting An Officer

MORRIS, MONTIQUE MARQUISE
98657 Bank Fraud
A Bond Forfeiture Hearing
99936 Cruelty To Juveniles

PAHL, PAUA
99928 Resisting An Officer

ROWELL, AMANDA L
99759 Stalking

SHEPPARD, KOBE
99557 Attempted First Degree Murder

SHEPPARD, KOBE
99239 Misdemeanor Access Device Fraud
Restitution owed to the victim per the report- $771.23, plus $115.68 fee = $886.91 total

STEPHENS, CEDRIC BERNARD
98255 Second Degree Murder

TRIM, CAROLYN Y.
99380 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

WAFER, PEYTON DWAIN
99837 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated

WALKER, ZACHARIAHE JERMON
97578 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
*DA Motion to set aside conviction and dismiss prosecution
Please make forfeiture of 2000 Honda Accord part of any plea/sentencing agreement.

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

WRIGHT, CASANDRA
99737 Violation Of Leash Law

---

“To the outside world we all grow old. But not to brothers and sisters. We know each other as we always were. We know each other’s hearts. We share private family jokes. … We live outside the touch of time.” — Clara Ortega

There’s a rhythm to lunch with my brother. It starts the minute we sit down. Sixty years of shared history comes rushing back—some of it spoken, most of it not. That’s the gift of a brother. You can disappear for weeks, then pick up the thread like you never left.

We grew up four years apart. That might sound like a gap, but it only felt like one in the early years. He was the older, steadier presence. I was the tagalong. We grew up in a house with a single mom— a public school art teacher— who had no money but an endless reservoir of determination. Life wasn’t without its challenges, but there was always a closeness. The bond between siblings is unlike any other relationship. Friends can come and go, but brothers share a bloodline, a history, and often a shorthand that no one else can quite understand.

My earliest memory is not of toys or school or childhood games. My earliest memory is of our mother walking into my brother’s bedroom to tell us that our father had died. I was six. My brother was ten. For whatever reason, I don’t remember our father at all—no flashes, no fragments, nothing. But I remember that moment with perfect clarity: the look on her face, the sound of her voice, the finality of her words. A family bond is forged in a moment like that, one that endures through everything else that life throws your way. You grow up, develop interests, build friendships and families of your own, but underneath it all remains that unspoken connection from that moment when life changed in an instant.

In the years that followed, my brother became more than just a brother. In my teenage years, he was part brother, part father figure. Though he never lost the playfulness of being my sibling. Our house was filled with practical jokes and pranks. One never knew if a door might open with a bucket of water perched on top or if a dead snake might be waiting under the covers. We had a few fights, as brothers do, but only a few. What I remember most is the laughter, the teasing, the attempts to one-up each other with the next prank. That kind of play binds just as tightly as shared tragedy, and we’re still pranking each other today.

We didn’t have money for vacations growing up. Other families in the neighborhood would invite us along on theirs. Only now do I realize that it wasn’t just generosity; it was also an acknowledgment that we didn’t have the means to go ourselves. There was one time, when my brother was a freshman in college, my mother scraped up enough money— possibly borrowed from a relative— to take us on our own vacation. She drove the three of us to Florida, where we spent time at Cypress Gardens—my brother and I were both avid water skiers. Then to Disney World, and later to Captiva Island for a few days. I think back on that trip now, after having kids of my own go off to college, and it looks different. That trip wasn’t about Florida. It was about her holding the family together after my brother had moved away, even when the odds were stacked against her.

Our family has always leaned toward entrepreneurship. Our great-grandfather owned a general store in Brooksville, Mississippi. Our grandfather owned a newspaper. My father was the business manager of the newspaper, but our mom always said his long-range plan had been to open his own business. My brother and I picked up the torch early. We’ve both been working since our pre-teen years. Neither of us has any interest in slowing down—he’s not ready to retire, and I know I never will. 

It’s simply who we are.

Through all of it, one thing has been constant: I have felt as if my brother has always been proud of me. He bragged on me when I picked up a guitar as a 10-year old, nudging me to play and sing for his friends. He bragged on me when I got into the radio business while he was in college. He bragged again when I opened my first restaurant. As men, we don’t always say the things that matter out loud. But to know that your brother is proud of you, to feel the respect of your family—it means more than anything else.

I’ve also seen the other side of sibling bonds. My wife lost her sister when they were both in their mid-thirties. They were inseparable—roommates in college, daily phone calls, seeing each other almost every day. When her sister died, it left a hole in her life that has probably never fully closed. Watching her navigate that loss has deepened my appreciation for the bond my brother and I share. It’s made me aware that what we have shouldn’t to be taken for granted.

Our mother’s greatest wish—something she repeated throughout her life—was that her two sons stay close. Even though we live ninety miles apart, I think we’ve honored that wish. A year has passed since she died, and in a way, her passing has only reinforced the connection between us. I find myself repeating her wish to my children. Other than their health and happiness, my greatest hope is that they will remain close throughout their lives. They may not fully grasp the value of that yet, but they will.

Brothers are unique in the way they can needle and support, prank and protect, laugh and grieve—all at once. They’re family and friend, critic and cheerleader. There’s a quote I’ve always liked: “A brother is someone who knows your history and your heart.” I don’t know who said it but it rings true. My brother has been a superhero more times than I can count, though he’d never call himself one. He’s been steady, proud, loyal, and ever-present.

And so, we sit across from each other at lunch, two men in their sixties with more history behind them than ahead of them, and we talk. Some words are spoken. Most are not. And beneath it all runs that unbroken line that started when two boys sat side by side in a bedroom and listened as their mother delivered the hardest words she would ever have to say.

Onward.

Muz’s Fudge Cake

Makes 9 brownies

Preheat oven to 350 F

2 ounces Bakers Chocolate, unsweetened

2 sticks unsalted butter

4 large eggs

2 cups granulated sugar

3/4 cup + 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cocoa powder, sifted

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Non-stick-spray

Melt the chocolate and butter together over a double boiler. Once melted, stir well and set aside to cool slightly. The cooled chocolate should remain in liquid form.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl beat the eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually whisk in the sugar until completely incorporated. Slowly pour the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. Slowly incorporate the flour and sifted cocoa. Fold in the vanilla, nuts and salt

Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with non-stick spray. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted.

Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack for five minutes. Carefully flip the brownies onto a serving platter and let cool completely. Remove the parchment paper and cut into squares. Store in an airtight container.

---

Fall is a wonderful time to embrace seasonal eating. Not only is it budget-friendly and environmentally conscious, but it also brings a variety of flavorful, nutrient-rich produce to your plate. Choosing fruits and vegetables that are in season means they’re at their peak in taste and nutrition and often more affordable at local markets.

Here are some fall favorites and how to make the most of them:

 Apples

• Nutrition: High in fiber and vitamin C.
• Storage: Keep in a cool, dark place or refrigerate to extend freshness.
• Prep Ideas: Slice for snacks, bake into oatmeal, or sauté with cinnamon for a warm topping.
• Easy Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal – Cook oats with diced apples, cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla. Top with chopped nuts for crunch.

 Pumpkin

• Nutrition: Rich in vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants.
• Storage: Whole pumpkins can last for weeks in a cool, dry place. Refrigerate cut pieces.
• Prep Ideas: Roast chunks for soups, puree for baking, or add to smoothies.
• Easy Recipe: Pumpkin Smoothie – Blend pumpkin puree with banana, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, and a touch of maple syrup.

 Sweet Potatoes

• Nutrition: Packed with fiber, vitamin A, and potassium.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place and avoid refrigeration.
• Prep Ideas: Bake, mash, or roast with olive oil and herbs.
• Easy Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges – Toss with olive oil, paprika, and garlic powder. Roast until crispy.

 Winter Squash (Butternut, Acorn, Spaghetti)

• Nutrition: Excellent source of vitamins A and C.
• Storage: Keep whole squash in a pantry or cupboard; refrigerate once cut.
• Prep Ideas: Roast, stuff, or puree for soups.
• Easy Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash – Fill roasted halves with quinoa, cranberries, and pecans.

 Pears

• Nutrition: Good source of fiber and vitamin C.
• Storage: Ripen at room temperature, then refrigerate.
• Prep Ideas: Slice into salads, bake into crisps, or poach for dessert.
• Easy Recipe: Pear & Walnut Salad – Toss mixed greens with sliced pears, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette.

 Brussels Sprouts

• Nutrition: High in fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants.
• Storage: Refrigerate in a breathable bag or container.
• Prep Ideas: Roast, sauté, or shred into slaws.
• Easy Recipe: Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Halve and roast with olive oil, garlic, and a splash of balsamic vinegar

Tips for Seasonal Eating Success

• Shop Local: Visit farmers markets or local produce stands for the freshest options.
• Plan Ahead: Use seasonal produce in meal planning to save money and reduce waste.
• Get Creative: Try new recipes or swap seasonal veggies into your favorite dishes.

Shakera Williams, DrHSc, MPH

Associate Extension Agent

Nutrition & Community Health

(Flavors of Health, SNAP-Ed, CDC-HOP/Healthy Communities)

Webster and Claiborne Parishes

---

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

ADAMS, DEVAN KYLE
T037923 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T037923A Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle – Crash

ALLMAN, GREGORY WAYNE
T097625 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

BLACKBURN, DAKOTA JAMES
T097725 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BOSTON, BIANCA H
T097825 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BOWERS, KATELYNN TAYLOR
T097925 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BRANTLEY, LKENDRICK DEVONTA
T096625 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 71/55
T096625A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

BRICKETT, CHARLES IRVING
T098025 Following Too Closely – Crash

BRINKMAN, DILILAH DANIELLE
T098125 Improper Turn And/Or Failure To Give Required Signal

BRITTIAN, LEAH P
T098225 Operating A Vehicle With An Expired Driver’s License
T098225A Operating a Vehicle with no License Plate

BUCK, JANIE MARIE
T018825 Operating a Vehicle Without Properly Lit Lamps for Condition
T018825AOperating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

BUDWAH, JOHNATHAN EUGENE
T098325 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CADE, JIMMY ROY
T098425 Improper Lane Usage

CAGLE, DEREK CHARLES
T098525 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CASTANEDA, JOSE
T098625 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 69/55

COLEMAN, RAMONICA
T098725 Failure to Use Safety Belt

COX, KENDOYLE TYLER
T098825 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CROWLEY, DEMETRIS
T098925 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 74/55

DANIEL, DOUGLAS JAMES
T099125 Improper Lane Usage

DAVENPORT, RAYTEZ CHARTA
T058018 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T05018A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

DEL TORO, RONALD
T099225 Speeding 25 & OVER – 100/70
T099225A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

EDWARDS, KAMERON
T099325 Window Tint

FERRELL, ELFI JUJAN
T099425 Failure to Use Safety Belt

GAYNOR, JASON TRAVIS
T096725 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T096725A Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

GERMANY, DARIUS D
T108521 Speeding 16-24 MPH
T108521A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GONZALEZ, JUAN
T099525 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 86/70

HAMILTON, LAMIKA LYNELL
T099625 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Stop Lamps And/Or Turn Signals

HARRIS, DAMAHJAE JAQUAN
T096825 Speeding 25 & OVER – 86/55

HAYNES, ALLEN RENARD
T099925 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 87/70

HAYS, JEWELYN ELIZABETH
T099825 Speeding 16-24 MPH

HODGE, BRANDON M
T102525 Operating A Vehicle With An Expired Driver’s License

HUNTER, KRISTI
T103025 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License
T103025A Improper Lane Usage

JACKSON, JAYLENN KEVELLE
T100025 Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

JONES, TYRESE ANTHONY
T100125 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 88/70

LATSON, SYLVESTER HILL
T096925 Speeding 25 & OVER
T096925A Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

LEE, NASASHA
T100225 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 69/55
Att. Rude

MASON, LACY DANIELLE
T102725 Speeding 25 & OVER – 94/55

MATHEWS, DALLAS DOUGLAS
T100325 Failing To Stop At Stop Sign-Accident

MAXIE, JAVEN CARL
T100425 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 85/65

MCCARTY, RANDALL S
T100525 Improper Lane Usage

MCLEMORE, COLTON CHASE
T102825 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 60/45

MILLER, CHRISTA JORDAN
T100625 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 74/55

MITCHELL, LAKETHA
T100725 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle – Crash

MODISETTE, BRADIE WAYNE
T097025 Operating A Vehicle Without Proper Required Equipment

MOORE, ASHANTI KIKUYU
T097125 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 77/55

NWOKO, NICHOLAS
T100825 Failure to Use Safety Belt

ONUOHA, MARGIE MOORE
T100925 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 70/55

PACE, MORGAN ROCHELLE
T097225 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 74/55

PARDUE, KI FIELDS
T101025 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
T101025A Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

PATE, CAMERON S
T097325 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 72/55

PREJEAN, JAMES
T101125 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 76/55

RAY, BILLY D
T101225 Failure to Use Safety Belt

RHODES, DERRICK LORENZO
T101325 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 55/69

RODRIQUEZ, CHERIE RENEE
T074125 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

SCHARBOR, BRANT WAYNE
T101425 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 73/55

SCOTT, BERMESHIA
T097425 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 73/55

SHEHEE, JR, ROY CANE
T101525 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 57/35

SIMMONS, DAMIAN LAMON
T079524 Operating A Vehicle Without Proper Required Equipment
T079524A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

SIMMONS, JORDAN MIK
T101625 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle – Crash

SLEEK, JACOB
T102925 Speeding 25 & OVER – 85/55

SMITH, DESTINY DENIECE
T128924 Improper Child Restraint
T128924A Improper Child Restraint

SOUVINETTE, JUSTIN OLYNN
T101725 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 60/45

SPEECH, ESSENCE SIMONE
T074225 Speeding 25 & OVER

THORNTON, BRITTNEY SHIKEL
T101825 Failure to Use Safety Belt

TISDALE, TRAVAGO MIGUELLE
T101925 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 72/55
T101925A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

WALKER, DIAMOND
T102125 Window Tint

WALKER, DWAYVON DEQUAN
T102225 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WALLACE, CARLOS
T037721 Speeding 16-24 MPH
T037721A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

WALLACE, CARMONICE EVASHA
T102025 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 71/55

WATSON, JASON SCOTT
T097525 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

WATSON, JASON SCOTT
T102625 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T102625A Operating A Vehicle With Improper Tail Lights

WEST, KIERSTIEN NICOLE
T102325 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 92/70
T102325A Improper Lane Usage
T102325B Following Too Closely
Argumentative

WOODARD, KELLY A
T102425 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 77/55

---

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

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

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

Here’s your link:

https://form.jotform.com/232385564755163

---

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the morning.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 64. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Friday

Sunny, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night

Clear, with a low around 59.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 85.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 60.

Sunday

Sunny, with a high near 86.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 61.

* Info provided by National Weather Service.

---

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

Sept. 25-30

Deadline to pick up SKELETOUR skeletons from Minden City Hall.

Sept. 26

6:30-7:30 p.m., Brushwood Methodist Church of Dubberly will host a Revival.

Sept. 27

9 a.m. until … Minden Lions Club Fall Chicken Charbroil. Minden Walmart parking lot.

1:30 under 4:30 p.m. 2nd Big Annual 22 Hands-Up Food Fest Fundraiser. Doors open at 1 p.m., Minden Community House.

2 until 4 p.m. Taco Tips, American Legion Hall, Minden. Sponsored by We’re Here.

Webster Parish Fair Pageant:

9:30 a.m. Princess Pageant, Girls baby through 18 years, Minden High School Auditorium.

Queen Pageant: 5 p.m. Minden High School Auditorium.

Sept. 28

Brushwood Methodist Church of Dubberly will host a Revival.

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.

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. 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. 25

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

Nov. 3

SKELETOUR winners announced.

---

Loading crossword puzzle. One moment please.

---

Play Sudoku online!

---

Gilbert “Mark” Peel
October 24, 1951 — September 14, 2025
Bossier City
Graveside service: 11:30 a.m. Friday, October 3, 2025, Northwest LA Veterans Cemetery.

Claudia Toinette Sewell
March 5, 1947 — July 26, 2025
Bossier City
Visitation: Noon Saturday, October 11, 2025, Airline Baptist Church, Bossier City.
Celebration of Life: 1 p.m. immediately following visitation.

Leavy Glen Nugent
May 13, 1938  –  September 20, 2025
Plain Dealing
Visitation: 9 a.m. Saturday, September 27, 2025, Plain Dealing Methodist Church.
Graveside service: 2 p.m., Cleveland Cemetery, Lena, La., under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Plain Dealing.

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.)

---