By Josh Beavers

A city lives and dies by its infrastructure. A poor infrastructure will spell the doom for any town. Conversely, a city that invests in, maintains, and plans the improvement of its infrastructure will fly high.

And that’s why Minden Mayor Terry Gardner is making infrastructure improvement a top priority.

Gardner sat down with The Journal last week and went over the laundry list of city infrastructure improvements either already underway or in the works.

“Without a doubt, infrastructure is vital for our community’s growth,” the mayor said. “Our population is roughly 12,000, but with what it is happening on either side of us, we stand to see a population growth of more than 5,000 in the next seven years. It is vital we meet the needs of the people who will want to move into our community.”

Gardner says the influx of population will be due to several factors.

They include:

– Hunt Forest Products which will bring 500 new jobs to the area as well as spur numerous other associated business each of which will also bring jobs.
– The interstate interchange by Louisiana Downs which will make a trip from Barksdale to Minden only about 20 minutes.
– The continued growth of Camp Minden as a training hub for military, police, and fire departments from all over the nation.

The city is working on a new subdivision because all the new arrivals to the area will need homes. And Gardner wants Minden to be the place each of them decides to put down roots, send their children to school, support the local economy, and keep Minden moving forward.

The city is also working with the state on widening and overlaying Sheppard Street which will help make the road safer, smoother, and spur economic development on the corridor. The road work will also help alleviate truck travel downtown which will save the brick streets and make the area safer for pedestrians.

Infrastructure also aids economic development. And as reported last month, the city has seen a large spike in new and renovated businesses. The latest addition to the community, Burkes Outlet, is just one of many new businesses that have been brought in under the direction of Economic Development Director Phillip Smart.

Several years ago, an accident while the state was working on the I-20 interchange left the exit in the dark, literally. The lights were ripped out and the exit is not safe. Gardner said the city is working with the state to bring back the lights not only for safety reasons but to show travelers that Minden is open for business when they decide to seek fuel or a meal.

In addition to street overlays already underway and upcoming, Gardner said the city is soon to launch a massive renovation and expansion to the city’s water system. The list of all the improvements is as follows:

Water Distribution Improvements at Cheney Street – $75,000

Water Distribution Improvements at Myers Street – $50,000

Water Distribution Improvements at West Union/Green Streets – $75,000

Water Distribution Improvements at South Street – $150,000

250KW generator for the Clerk Street Water Plant – $92,751

Water Well Replacement – $1,063,000

Backup power generator for Murry Water Pump Station – $ 75,000

Downtown Water Tower Refurbishment Project – $500,000

Water Main Replacement from Water Plant to under railroad tracks at Depot Hill – $400,000

Inflow and Infiltration Study of the Wastewater System – $300,000

Return Sludge Screw Pump Replacements – $264,000

Degritter Pump Replacement at the Wastewater Treatment Plant – $97,000

Replace Robertson Wastewater Lift Station – $650,000

Gardner said that no matter what comes Minden’s way, the city will endure, adapt, and thrive. Even in the face of a world still grappling with the Covid Pandemic, Minden is going strong, growing, and planning for the future.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

While the city struggles to pass a budget, the firefighter struggles to support his family.
Anyone who has ever experienced a house fire understands the point where a firefighter becomes a hero.

City of Minden’s paid firefighters earn $8.85 an hour in starting pay.

“The man who weed-eats for the city makes more than that,” Minden Mayor Terry Gardner said during a recent budget workshop with some members of the Minden City Council.

“We aren’t asking for a raise,” fire Capt. Adam Bradley said. “What we are trying to do is bring it to the council’s attention.”

Since the last budget workshop, Bradley said he and other firefighters have met with two city councilpersons and talked with others.

“They’ve all been real receptive,” he said. “And they’ve all had their different plans (to increase pay), and they’re all OK with what we’ve asked for, which is to be moved up to where Minden PD is at $13.75 an hour.”

The City employs 15 full time civil service firefighters, a number that has been consistent over the past four years.

However, volunteers – which are extremely important – have fluctuated. To date, there are only 18. In 2018, there were 25 volunteers.

Total combined alarms, which include inside and outside the city, fires and fire drills, rescue calls and non-emergency runs in 2018 totaled 372, 2019 – 438, 2020 – 480 and 2021 to date – 387.

Firefighters – both paid and volunteer – provide mutual aid to other fire districts, such as Dist. 10, Dixie Inn, Sibley and Dubberly, while putting in training hours.

Training hour totals are: 2018 – 5,393, 2019 – 5,089.5, 2020 – 4,736 and 2021 to date – 3,687.

Two Minden Assistant Fire Chiefs have retired during the past year. Bradley said the department would like to see the City take the pay difference between retirees and new hires and spread it across the firefighters until they reach the goal of $13.75.

“It would go across the board to everybody,” Bradley said.
This plan would mean money would not be added to the City’s budget.
“We just want to get caught up with money that’s already there before there are any kind of other plans moving forward,” Bradley said.

Paid firefighters also receive a stipend from the state of $6,000 a year. Spread across 12 months, firefighters see $500 a month from those funds, before taxes.

While starting firefighters earn $8.85, firefighter/operators earn $9.74, captains see $11.06 and assistant chiefs see $13.28. The plan would bring firefighters to $13.75, firefighter/operators to $15.13, captains to $17.19 and assistant chiefs to $20.63.

A raise would not affect the chief nor volunteers, who are listed as part-time employees.

Fire Chief Kip Mourad said volunteers receive $20 per call, if they respond.
“I was getting $1,500 per month until the 2016-2017 budget,” Mourad said. “Then it went up to $3,250 per month. I don’t receive the $20 per call.”

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Saturday, Oct. 9, Louisiana voters will be faced with four Constitutional Amendments when they go to the polls.
The Webster Parish Journal, with the aid of Public Affairs Research Council (PAR) of Louisiana and District 10 State Rep. Wayne McMahon, will take a look at Amendment 1 in this first story, with Amendment 2 to follow next week and so forth.
According to PAR, the first two amendments are weighty tax reform proposals.

“All of these amendments are worthy,” McMahon said. “Amendments 1 and 2 are the ones that can make a difference moving forward.”

McMahon said it is important to put a tax plan in place so businesses looking at Louisiana “don’t see all these complicated tax issues.”

Amendment No. 1 takes major steps toward consolidating and streamlining an unusually fragmented state and local sales tax system.

Amendment 1 reads as follows:

“Do you support an amendment to authorize the legislature to provide for the streamlined electronic filing, electronic remittance, and the collection of sales and use taxes levied within the state by the State and Local Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Commission and to provide for the funding, duties, and responsibilities of the commission?”

On the PAR website, for Amendment 1, a vote FOR would allow a single authority to oversee the collection, electronic filing and policy guidance for state and local sales taxes.

A vote AGAINST would continue to constitutionally require separate collection, filing and policy oversight of sales taxes by the state and local governments.

“We are one of only three states in the nation that don’t have centralized tax collection,” McMahon said. “We collect taxes from each parish and several other entities. This amendment will set up one board to collect sales tax for the complete state.”

If the amendment passes, this eight-member body would have four members appointed by organizations representing local government, two by the state executive branch and two by the legislative branch. The appointments would require Senate confirmation.

The specific appointing authorities would be:

• the Louisiana School Boards Association,
• the Louisiana Municipal Association,
• the Police Jury Association of Louisiana,
• the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association,
• the Secretary of the Department of Revenue,
• the Governor,
• the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and
• the President of the Senate.

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Week one is in the books for our Webster Parish football teams, and over the weekend the coaches had a chance to break down game film and see what went right and what went wrong.

The Journal reached out to our four head coaches for a quick hit on their perspective after film study.

Lakeside:

The Warriors dominated Magnolia Charter Friday night as they defeated the Mariners 39-0.

Last Friday night, Coach Mike Santelices said there were a few areas of concern despite the dominating performance. Among them were a few penalties that could be the difference between a win and a loss in a close game.

However, overall Santelices said he was very proud of the team.

“The kids played hard and had sound technique,” the coach told The Journal. “They were downfield blocking and gave every bit of effort.”

Santelices singled out Kris Redden, Cade Boley, and Koby Mangrum for special praise because of their dedication to the blocking schemes.

“I was very positive today with the team as we watched film,” he said with a laugh. “The boys did good and should be proud of how well they played.”

Lakeside plays Block at home Friday. Look for a preview in Thursday’s update.

North Webster

The North Webster Knights put on an impressive display at home against Haynesville. The rivalry is one of the oldest in the state, but this year’s matchup wasn’t much of a contest with North Webster winning 34-7.

Head coach John Ware said game film after week one was typical. There were a lot of good things as well as areas to improve.

“The kids played with a lot of emotion,” he told The Journal. “I was pleased with that effort and intensity. Of course, there were some dropped passes and issues with alignment and some miscues on defense, but that is to be expected in week one.”

Jamarcus Stephens did everything for the Knights, playing big on defense from his outside linebacker spot and igniting the offense with three touchdowns (two rushing and one receiving) to pace the offense. Running back Cooper Sanders and quarterback Colin McKenzie also shined in the run game.

The Knights got stellar play out of their defense all night, shutting down the Golden Tornado Wing-T attack. Haynesville’s lone score came with less than four minutes to play.

North Webster (1-0) will remain home to face North Caddo this Friday at 7 p.m.

Minden:

The Minden High Crimson Tide struggled in week one as powerful 5A Parkway came to town. Penalties and turnovers combined to put Minden on the short end of a 45-14 final score.

“After looking at the film, it’s easy to see we did some good things,” Minden Head Coach Spencer Heard said. “We ran the ball well and had several opportunities, but our mistakes cost us.”

Heard said he takes nothing away from Parkway and its veteran offensive line and skilled running back.

“They are special,” he said. “But there’s nothing too glaring about where we are now. Our tackling will improve because that’s hard to simulate in practice. We also may make some personnel changes defensively.”

Even though the opening game didn’t go as hoped, Heard understands that mulling over a loss for too long will spell trouble for the Tide.

“We’ve got a lot of things we need to work on and get better at,” he said. “We’ve got a good opponent coming into town next [Green Oaks], and we’re going to have to flush this one out and get ready for the next one.”

Glenbrook:

Glenbrook welcomed River Oaks to town last Friday in the Apaches’ first contest as members of the LHSAA.

On a night that saw the renewed rivalry of two former MAIS foes, the Apaches racked up 45 first half points in route to a 59-28 victory over the Mustangs.

“Last Friday night was everything we had hoped for,” Head Coach David Feaster told the Journal. “River Oaks appreciates the old rivalry as much as we do and they brought a good crowd and a good team, but we had a much better crowd and a much better team and we outplayed them from the opening kickoff until the end. It was a great way to start our experience with the LHSAA. This week we start district against the best team in the state, but I or our guys are not backing down. We are excited about the challenge.”

The Apaches will head over to Linwood Avenue in Shreveport on Friday to take on the defending Division IV State Champions, the Calvary Cavaliers. Kickoff is 7 p.m. for the District 1-1A opener.

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Saturday at Minden’s Airport was a great event for several hundred attendees.

“It was a huge success – our young leaders in town did an amazing job with the sound along with our airport manager Steven Burdeaux,” said Minden Mayor Terry Gardner. “We had planes flying in from Lafayette, Lake Charles, Shreveport, Bossier and Ruston.”

Gardner said there was plenty of food for hungry flyers.

“We had 318 Pizza Truck, and Chris Hampton‘s wings,” he said. “I gave away soft drinks and water to everyone.”

The mayor said there was also music throughout the day, and he gave away around 150 fans.

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By Josh Beavers

Minden High’s Kaylaan Washington wanted to make the start of football season special for the Crimson Tide.

That’s why the 17-year-old senior decided to provide three separate team breakfasts for team members before the first contest of the season.

The Journal reached out to Kaylaan to see why the MHS Darling made such a kind gesture.

The Journal: Hey Kaylaan, we heard about what you did. That was awesome. Tell our readers why did what you did for the team?

Kaylaan: I gave the football team breakfast because COVID has been hard on all of us, especially the sports teams, and I wanted them to know that I am here to support them and their efforts.

The Journal: That’s great. It’s good to know young people like yourself care so much about your friends and community. We also heard you won the MHS Darling pageant last year. Why do you like being MHS darling?

Kaylaan: I like being MHS Darling because it gives me the chance to reach out to all the people in my school and make a difference in their school life.

The Journal: Again, that’s great to hear. So, tell us, why is it important to be active in your school? Why do you do it?

Kaylaan: It’s important to be active because it gives you many opportunities for the future and gives you the opportunity to help design your future. I am active in my school because I can make a difference. Being active makes me love my school even more.

The Journal: Once a Tider, always a Tider, huh? So, tell us then, what does it mean to you to be a Minden Crimson Tider?

Kaylaan: It means a lot to me because I love the people and spirit and more. Roll, Tide, Roll!

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Courtesy of the Sabine Parish Journal

Friday night’s visit to Many High School by the Union Parish Farmers football team was a clash of championship programs that Louisiana high school football fans had eagerly anticipated. It did not disappoint – from a football standpoint.

Unfortunately, the visiting team’s conduct was extremely disappointing, particularly considering the prior cordial relationship between Many head coach Jess Curtis and Union Parish head coach Joe Spatafora.

The fireworks started well before the game, even before the actual trademark Many fireworks were ignited during the pregame entrance of the Tiger football team.

Minutes after the Union Parish team buses pulled onto the MHS campus, the trouble began. Spatafora cursed out a Many assistant coach for not allowing the Farmers access to the school gymnasium.

Many’s protocol is to keep the main gym locked, to avoid it being left in poor condition by visitors, and instead providing visitors use of the locker rooms in the back of the gym. Union and Spatafora had played at MHS previously and knew about that procedure, but he nonetheless unleashed the profanity-laced outburst at the Many coach.

Feeding off their coach’s unsportsmanlike conduct, once the Union players dressed out and took the field for warmups, some stomped on the Many M at midfield and even gave the Many coaches the old one-finger salute.

Many’s radio station sideline reporter even had a difficult time doing his pregame from the sideline due to the expletives coming from some Union players directed toward Tiger players and coaches.

Then the actual fireworks started. A football game broke out, a darned good game, at that. When it ended, there was an almost inevitable confrontation on the field, one which fortunately was short-lived.

After the outlandish behavior of Spatafora and members of his team – which had officials from Union Parish apologizing afterward – it’s likely we’ll not see another matchup between the teams, or the schools in any sport, for a long time.

In spring 2020, the Union Parish coach was suspended by his superintendent, who nearly dismissed him, following a much-publicized drunken argument with another north Louisiana head coach at the January 2020 LSHAA convention. Spatafora released a statement during the aftermath from that incident that has interesting implications considering the events at Many High Friday night.

“I am embarrassed that I did not maintain a professional demeanor while representing my school and myself at this convention,” he said in a Feb. 5, 2020, statement reported by the Monroe News-Star.

“I regret my actions and will ensure I do not drink to excess in the future. I will only conduct myself in a professional manner from this date forward.”

Bret McCormick, former Alexandria Talk sports editor, who is an LHSAA basketball referee and operates One T Photography providing sports action images to fans and media, was covering Friday’s game and fired off commentary on his @b_hoss_mac Twitter account Friday night.

“As a former media guy who now takes photos of high school football games, I try to stay unbiased. However, Union Parish is the most classless bunch I’ve witnessed in a long time. I expect nothing more from Joe Spatafora. Totally classless. (Union Parish star running back) Trey Holly deserves better.

“The sad thing is, it wasn’t even one of THOSE games. No fights. No late hits. No taunting penalties. Just a little flexing and talking. Union scored in the final minute to make it a 10-point game. No problem with that. Players didn’t (have a problem) either. Then, unnecessary garbage.

“….the postgame antics were totally uncalled (for), and it shows a lack of leadership from the top. Do better, Union. Garbage.

“As a basketball official, I constantly hear about the importance of sportsmanship. The LHSAA takes it seriously. So it infuriates me when I see such blatant disregard for sportsmanship. It’s disgusting and deserves to be called out and investigated,” McCormick tweeted.

PHOTO: Smoke from the start of the pregame fireworks show at Friday evening’s Many High football game.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A Shreveport man speeding down Sibley Rd. is behind bars on more serious charges.

Minden Police arrested Jaevon T. Feaster, 22, of the 3600 block of Greenbriar Dr., Shreveport on charges of aggravated flight, reckless operation, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, no child restraint, no driver’s license and a fugitive from Shreveport Police.

Minden Police Chief Steve Cropper said Off. Reece Tewell pursued Feaster after clocking his vehicle at 79 miles per hour in a 35-mph-zone.

“Off. Tewell attempted to stop the vehicle, and it entered the Interstate heading westbound,” Cropper said. “While on I-20, the vehicle went around several 18 wheelers, failing to use its turn signals to indicate lane change. The officer reached a speed of 130 mph in the patrol unit and still couldn’t catch Feaster.”

Off. Tewell reportedly caught up with Feaster at the Dixie Inn exit, where he began to slow down and eventually came to a stop on the shoulder of the road.

“The officer waited at the patrol unit with firearm drawn until Sgt. Mitch Hackett and Lt. Spencer Tippen arrived as back-up,” said the chief. “Officers ordered Feaster out of the vehicle and on the ground. There was also a female passenger, who was pregnant. Officers ordered her out of the vehicle and onto her knees.”

There was also an unrestrained two-year-old child in the vehicle, according to reports.

“During a vehicle search, Sgt. Hackett located a loaded firearm,” Cropper said. “Feaster was transported to MPD, while the vehicle was released to the female passenger.”

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Natalee Blake Farrington, 37, of the 26,000 block of Hwy. 157, Shongaloo, was arrested by Webster Parish Sheriff’s deputies for simple batter of persons with infirmities and domestic abuse battery.

Michael Newman, 32, of the 200 block of Mary Dr., Minden, was arrested by Minden Police for simple battery, telephone harassment and video voyeurism.

Justin Daniel Plunkett, 25, of Hwy. 4, Ringgold, was arrested by WPSO on a warrant for theft of a motor vehicle. He was transported from Bossier City Jail to BDCC.

Laqualin Neal, 29, of Springhill, was arrested by Cullen Police for possession of a firearm with obliterated serial number and possession of an illegal firearm.

The United Christian Assistance Program is in need of the following items:

• Food: biscuit mix, pasta, rice, canned or powdered milk
• Clothing: men’s tennis and dress shoes sizes 9 1/2 and larger
• Household Goods: king and queen sheets, towels

UCAP is open Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. for food, utility and rent assistance. Clothing is dispensed on Wednesdays only. Thanks to the community for your support!

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Carter J. Moreau
October 27, 1931 – July 30, 2021
Visitation:  9:00 am until time of service
Services:  September 18, 2021 at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church in Plaucheville, Louisiana
Rosary and Mass will begin at 11:00 am

David Sanders
September 19, 1947 – September 1, 2021
Service: 12:00 p.m. Friday, September 10, 2021, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana 71111.
Visitation: 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. 

Paul Rhett Pierce, Sr.
April 14, 1940 – September 3, 2021
Services: Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Dr., Shreveport, Louisiana.
Visitation:  Tuesday, September 7, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Burial:  Forest Park Cemetery, St. Vincent. 

John Edward Kautz
February 24, 1943 – September 2, 2021
Services:  Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Landmark Baptist Church, 1595 Hwy. 171 in Stonewall, Louisiana.
Visitation will be held Monday, September 6, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Dr., Shreveport, Louisiana.
Burial: Mitchell Cemetery in Anacoco, Louisiana. 

Janet Stahl Thompson
January 22, 1965 – September 3, 2021
Services: Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Brushwood Methodist Church in Dubberly, Louisiana.
Visitation:  5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Monday, September 6, 2021, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Minden
Interment: Fellowship Cemetery in Dubberly under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Minden, Louisiana. 

Dennis Dean Hanson
March 28, 1944 – August 28, 2021
Graveside Service:  2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, 7970 Mike Clark Road, Keithville, Louisiana. 
Visitation:  12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, Shreveport, Louisiana.

Theresa Armand Lemoine
April 8, 1963 – September 3, 2021
Services: 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Marksville, Louisiana.
Burial:  St. Joseph’s Mausoleum #2. 

Cheryl Holmes Falgout
October 7, 1960 – September 3, 2021
Services:  Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Arcadia.
Visitation will be held on Monday, September 6, 2021, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home of Arcadia.
Interment: Oak Grove Cemetery. 

Charles Eugene Cutright
June 22, 1951 – September 3, 2021
Services: Tuesday, September 7, 2021, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana. 

Addie Underwood Strange
November 29, 1927 – September 3, 2021
Services: 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana.
Visitation:  11:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Graveside service: Lakeside Cemetery, 1023-1099 Valle, Stamps, Arkansas. 

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Journal Staff

Minden Mayor Terry Gardner has announced there will be a re-grand opening of Ewell Park from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 18.

“We are asking for donations from the council and other community leaders and businesses to help with food and door prizes for everyone,” Gardner said. “I will be donating a flat screen TV for the grand prize during bingo, and I will be cooking hot dogs and hamburgers.”

There will be food, basketball tournaments and bounce houses for the kids, from 2 until 6 p.m.
“We will be having bingo games with some great door prizes,” the mayor said.

Yocum Law Firm has donated two bicycles for give-away. b1 Bank will provide chips, cookies and drinks and the Greater Minden Chamber of Commerce is donating donuts for the morning and two door prizes for the bingo game.

Any other businesses and community leaders that wish to help, donate or volunteer, please contact Mayor Terry Gardner at Minden City Hall by Tuesday, Sept. 14.

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By Josh Beavers

Lakeside kicked off its 2021 football season Friday night with a thumping of the visiting Magnolia School of Excellence. The Warriors rode the wave of a dominating defense on the way to a 39-0 victory.

“I feel great,” Lakeside coach Mike Santelices said. “The win is great, and I want the team to feel great about it tonight.”

The Lakeside defense gave up only one completion – for 43 yards – and held Magnolia to minus 47 yards rushing. The Mariners had 21 penalties for more than 200 yards.

Ashton Stewart ran the ball eight times for 88 yards and three touchdowns. Jacob Whitehead had 52 yards rushing and a touchdown. Jordan Case added 12 yards on the ground, and Cade Boley had 25 yards. Boley also caught four passes for 56 yards and a touchdown.

Whitehead was 10 for 10 passing for 95 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Tarrio Grigsby caught the second touchdown pass. Josh Sebald caught a pair of passes for 16 yards and Jordan Case caught a single pass.

“We made some mistakes,” Santelices said referring to eight Lakeside penalties. “Those kinds of things will cost us in a close game. So, we are going to have the team go back and look at the film and see areas they can improve. But we did have good technique and these boys should be proud of the way they played tonight. I’m happy for everyone at Lakeside.”

Magnolia had the ball first, but a series of penalties and a dropped pass pushed the Mariners to a third-and-25 deep in their own end of the field. Grigsby and Tyler Tharpe caught the Magnolia running back out of the backfield and threw him for a loss to force the punt.

What was either a trick play attempt or a botched punt resulted in Lakeside getting the ball on its own 41. After a two-yard run by Ashton Stewart, quarterback Jacob Whitehead hit Stewart on a little swing pass out of the backfield for 19 yards. On the next play, Whitehead kept the ball himself and ran 18 yards down to the one-yard line. Stewart punched it in on the next play to give the Warriors a lead they would never relinquish. The point after failed, but Lakeside went on top 6-0 at the 9:29 mark.

The penalties kept coming for Magnolia on their next drive. After three penalties gave them fourth-and-30, Magnolia’s Mark McCray threw a screen over the middle to Me’Ciah Butler. He broke tackles on his way to a 43-yard gain into Lakeside territory.

C.J. Watts then took over the drive as he made three tackles for loss and rushed the quarterback on fourth-and-long. The pass fell incomplete, and Lakeside took over on its own 39.

Stewart picked up a first down, and it looked like Grigsby scored from 35 yards out, but a holding call negated the play. Stewart went around the left on the next play for 22 yards. Moments later, Cade Boley took a short pass from Whitehead for a 19-yard touchdown. Watts made the point after for a 13-0 advantage at the 2:41 mark of the first quarter.

Three straight bad snaps put Magnolia on their own one-yard line with fourth-and-49 to go. Tyler Tharpe and C.J. Watts blocked the punt, giving Lakeside a first-and-goal inside the 10. Two plays later, Stewart scored his second touchdown, this one from six yards out. The point after failed, but Lakeside increased the lead to 19-0 with 11:39 to go before halftime.

Senior Kris Redden tipped and intercepted a pass on Magnolia’s next possession to give Lakeside the ball at the Mariner 12. A completion to Josh Sebald set up Grigsby’s four-yard touchdown catch out of the backfield. A failed PAT brought the score to 25-0 with 9:19 to play in the first half.

With Magnolia once again in possession, Koby Mangrum, Redden, and Ty Maness teamed for a 15-yard loss on a sack. A moment later, Mangrum was once again in the backfield for a sack and a safety. Lakeside led 27-0 at the 7:46 mark.

Jaden Miller was on the sack patrol when Magnolia got the ball back and threw the carrier down for a 20-yard loss. Magnolia went for it on fourth-and-long, but Redden sacked the quarterback for a loss and a turnover on downs.

Redden kept up the defensive pressure in the second half with a tackle for loss on the second Magnolia possession of the third quarter. Mangrum hit the quarterback for a loss of one to force a fourth and 15 for the visitors. The Mariners punted to give Lakeside the ball at the Magnolia 42.

Whitehead completed a 25-yard pass to Cade Boley on the last play of the third. On the first play of the fourth quarter, Stewart scored his third touchdown of the night as he cut right and scampered in from 35 yards out. The try for two failed, but Stewart’s run increased the Lakeside led to 33 with 10:28 to play.

Ty Maness, Eli Campbell, and C.J. Watts teamed for a sack on the next Magnolia possession. After another turnover on downs, Whitehead kept the ball on an option around the right for a 30-yard touchdown run. Lakeside didn’t attempt the point after, and the final moments of the game expired giving Lakeside the 39-0 win.

PHOTO:  Kris Redden (55) and C.J. Watts (1)

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The Glenbrook Apaches used a dominating first half Friday night, delighting the home crowd while cruising to their first LHSAA victory in their first game.

On a night that saw the renewed rivalry of two former MAIS foes, the Glenbrook Apaches racked up 45 first half points in route to a 59-28 victory over the River Oaks Mustangs.

D.J. Carter found the end zone first for the Apaches after taking a toss around the left end for an 8-yard touchdown. After the ensuing extra point, the Apaches led 7-0.

After Collin Gregg recovered an onside kick, Cason Clemson made quick work of the Mustang defenders, and took a Ty Feaster pass into the end zone from 44 yards out.

On the next possession, a strong Apache defense stifled the run game of the Mustangs and forced a punt from their own 9-yard-line. Maddox Mandino quickly outraced the punt coverage team on the way to a 42-yard touchdown return.

The Apache offense was not nearly done, as Feaster connected with Turner Mcclelland for a 50-yard touchdown pass, and Landry Powell hit Mandino on a slant route for a 44-yard catch and run for the score.

It was the Apache defense that rounded out the first-half scoring when Rhett Johnson hit the Mustang quarterback as he released the football, causing an interception and a 63-yard touchdown return by Garret Brown.

“It was a great night for Apache nation; it was something we have been looking forward to for a long long time,” said Apache head coach David Feaster. “River Oaks is an old rival of ours, and they were the first call that we made to get them on the schedule for week one. Our guys were really geared up for this game in front of a home crowd, and we really looked good. We will always have this night to look back on and remember as a great win over River Oaks.”

Next week the Apaches will head over to Linwood Avenue in Shreveport to take on the defending Division IV State Champions, the Calvary Cavaliers. Kickoff is 7 p.m. for the District 1-1A opener.

PHOTO:   D.J. Carter – Glenbrook

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By Whitman McGee

Minden High kicked off its regular season at home Friday night with a visit from Class 5A Parkway and for a second straight season, the Panthers proved to be too much for the home team as the Tide went down 45-14.

Minden started fast, putting together an impressive opening drive that culminated in a 6-yard rushing touchdown by running back Daylen Robinson.

Parkway immediately answered on the next play from scrimmage with a 72-yard bullet that landed in the hands of receiver Ed Moses, who outran defenders to score.

After the successful extra point kick, the Panthers didn’t trail again..

Minden coach Spencer Heard noted too many “little mistakes” on offense and missed tackles on defense that contributed to the loss.

Minden won the time of possession battle and matched the Panthers in the number of first downs gained at 18. However, it was five turnovers and eight penalties (combining for 81 lost yards) that came back to cripple the Tide.

Going into Friday night’s matchup, Heard made it clear that containing Parkway’s speedy halfback Jaylan White was a priority.

White was too elusive and explosive, finishing with 173 yards on just 13 carries.

“Number two [White] is a difference-maker, probably one of the fastest kids I’ve seen in a while,” said Heard, who was impressed by just how challenging it is to take White to the ground.

For the home team, Robinson had an impressive night, finishing with two touchdowns and 99 yards on the ground.

Even though Friday night’s game didn’t go as hoped, Heard understands that mulling over a loss for too long will spell trouble for the Tide.

“We’ve got a lot of things we need to work on and get better at,” he said. “We’ve got a good opponent coming into town next week [Green Oaks], and we’re going to have to flush this one out and get ready for the next one.”

Special thanks to Mark Chreene and KASO/KBEF for providing the Journal with game statistics.

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SPRINGHILL — North Webster seized control of Friday’s season-opening contest with Haynesville on the game’s first possession.

The Knights needed just two plays to find pay-dirt on a 1-yard rush by Jamarcus Stephens, and it only got better for the home side from there. North Webster rolled to a 34-7 victory.

Stephens did everything for the Knights, playing big on defense from his outside linebacker spot and igniting the offense with three touchdowns (two rushing and one receiving) to pace the offense. Running back Cooper Sanders and quarterback Colin McKenzie also shined in the run game.

The Knights got stellar play out of their defense all night, shutting down the Golden Tornado Wing-T attack. Haynesville’s lone score came with less than four minutes to play.

McKenzie added a 1-yard rushing score of his own and tossed a second passing touchdown to wide receiver Seth Dehart for the Knights’ final score of the evening.

North Webster (1-0) will remain home to face North Caddo next Friday at 7 p.m.

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Leonora Pearl Wixon
November 12, 1948 – August 19, 2021
Private Memorial Service: Sunday, September 5, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Dr., Shreveport, Louisiana.

Carter J. Moreau
October 27, 1931 – July 30, 2021
Visitation:  9:00 am until time of service
Services:  September 18, 2021 at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church in Plaucheville, Louisiana
Rosary and Mass will begin at 11:00 am

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When the Glenbrook Apaches kick off their 2021 football season in front of their home crowd on Friday night, there will be a familiar face lining up across the field. While ushering in a new era in the LHSAA, the Apaches take on their old MAIS rivals, the River Oaks Mustangs.

Before joining the LHSAA in 2020, the Mustangs were a mainstay on the Apaches’ schedule. There have been many memorable games throughout the years between the two team, but none as exciting as the 2012 matchup that saw the Apaches win 82-69. While the Apaches hope the final outcome Friday night remains the same, they definitely could do without the added excitement.

On the heels of a strong performance in their jamboree this past week, the Apache defense will look to limit the Mustangs’ ground attack while being le by linebackers Hayden Harmon and Landry Powell.

Offensively, the Apaches hope to ride the strong efforts of DJ Carter once again, while also showcasing a multitude of other dangerous weapons, including Cason Clemons and Rhett Johnson.

River Oaks will be facing an uphill battle due to its small roster, but there is no doubt that veteran coach Robert Hannah will have his team well prepared for this matchup.

Kick off is at 7 p.m. at Apache Stadium, as Glenbrook and River Oaks look to start a new beginning to an old tradition.

Photo: by Cheree Johnson

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A Webster Parish Sheriff’s deputy has died following pursuit of a speeding motorcyclist Tuesday.

Sheriff Jason Parker said Trey Copeland, a deputy and Cotton Valley Police Officer, was assisting WPSO Deputy C. Barton in chasing Johnny Jenkins of the 300 block of East St. Cotton Valley on U.S. 371, south of Sarepta at around 6:30 p.m.

“The pursuit ended at 6:48 p.m. when the driver of the motorcycle crashed near the XTO Plant in Cotton Valley,” Parker said. “Deputy Copeland, who was working in the capacity of police officer at the time, assisted in the pursuit.”
Parker said when Jenkins was in custody, Copeland indicated he was not feeling well. He was transported by ambulance to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased. Cause of death is unknown at this time.
Copeland was a Bayou Dorcheat Corrections deputy. In October of this year, he would have been with WPSO 15 years. Parker said he has served as a Cotton Valley Police Officer for approximately one year. Copeland was 47 years old.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family,” Parker said. “He was a loyal and dedicated servant to the citizens of Webster Parish. He will truly be missed.”

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Sibley Mayor Jimmy Williams will be taking a trailer of supplies to south Louisiana next week to distribute to those in need following Hurricane Ida. If anyone would like to donate various items of supplies, please drop off at Sibley Town Hall! From 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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The North Webster Knights and Haynesville Golden Tornado are ready to renew their rivalry Friday night at Springhill’s Baucum-Farrar Stadium.

The two schools were not able to meet in 2020 because of the LHSAA’s decision to shorten the schedule in the midst of a pandemic, which only adds to the excitement as Webster Parish and Claiborne Parish clash.

The Knights and Golden Tornado last met in 2019 at Haynesville’s Red Franklin-Memorial Stadium, with North Webster claiming a 21-10 victory. Head coach John Ware and the Knights will be chasing the young program’s first home victory over Haynesville. Golden Tornado head coach David Franklin and his team will be determined not to let that happen.

Both schools enter the matchup healthy coming out of the Pineland Jamboree, where the Knights lost to Homer 6-0, before defeating Lakeside 19-0. The Golden Tornado battled to a 6-0 defeat against Class 4A Minden before dueling to a 0-0 draw with the Lakeside Warriors.

In the matchup with Lakeside, three different North Webster players found paydirt in the Knights spread attack, while Haynesville moved the ball well at times in their classic Wing-T scheme. Both schools also had solid defensive showings on the night, setting the table for yet another classic contest.

The Knights and Golden Tornado will get the season underway from Springhill with the opening kickoff set for 7 p.m.

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By Josh Beavers

Lakeside begins its 2021 football season at home Friday night against Magnolia School of Excellence out of Shreveport.

Coach Mike Santelices said the Mariners are large and bruising on both lines. “They’ve got a lot of big kids,” the Warriors’ top man said in an interview Wednesday with The Journal. “They have a running back who is probably 6-foot-1 and weighs 220, (and) a very fast, very athletic quarterback, as well.”

This is the third season for Magnolia School. One month ago they hired Toriano Williams, former Southwood High offensive coordinator, as the program’s head coach.

They earned their first victory as a program last year when they defeated Ringgold, 12-8. The Mariners are 1-16 all time. They compete in District 1-1A with Calvary, Plain Dealing, Haynesville, Homer, Ringgold, Arcadia, Lincoln Prep and Glenbrook.

The Warriors are coming off an up and down performance in Friday’s annual Pineland Jamboree where they lost a contest to North Webster but posted a tie against Haynesville.

After watching the film, Santelices said the story of the night centered on turnovers. Namely, in game one, Lakeside had three turnovers which turned into three North Webster touchdowns, while in the second game the Warrior had zero giveaways. And if not for a questionable call that negated an Ashton Stewart touchdown, Lakeside would have come away with a win against perennial power Haynesville.

“That’s what we have been talking about during practice and meetings this week,” the coach said. “We physically dominated against Haynesville, but those turnovers kept us from winning. They were the difference between the tie and the win.”

Game time is 7 p.m. at Lakeside.

PHOTO:  Seniors Jaden Miller and Koby Mangrum are two key players on a tough Lakeside defense.

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A Springhill man has been arrested by Louisiana State Police Troop G and charged with vehicular homicide, driving under suspension and careless operation of a vehicle.

Michael P. Allen, 26, was reportedly traveling on U.S. Hwy 371 near Thomasville Road when he reportedly lost consciousness. The vehicle he was driving left the roadway and rolled over multiple times.

Allen’s unrestrained passenger, 26-year-old Seth Poole was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Allen suffered minor injuries and was transported to Minden Medical Center.

Troop G troopers reported that Allen volunteered blood and breath tests. Based on the chemical test, Allen registered a blood alcohol content of .183g percent.

He was booked and processed into Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.

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