News
A statement released by Glenbrook School:
At this time, Glenbrook School’s Athletic Director, James Thurman, is acting as interim Head Football Coach. While Coach Greg Tibbitt is not currently coaching the varsity football team, he is still employed at Glenbrook School.
Destiny Butler is wanted in connection with an offense that occurred on October 15, 2026. After completing the investigation, an arrest warrant was obtained for the offenses related to the incident.
The following are the charges and associated bond:
• Unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling (one count) with a $5,000 surety bond.
• Simple criminal damage to property (one count).
Please contact the Minden Police Dept. if you have any information on the whereabouts of Destin Butler. All information will be confidential.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
BATON ROUGE, La. — The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors today named Dr. Richard “Dickie” Crawford Acting President of Louisiana Tech University, effective October 22.
Crawford currently serves as Louisiana Tech’s Senior Vice President for Student Advancement and Chief Operating Officer. A Louisiana Tech alumnus and former Bulldog basketball player, he has served the University in a number of leadership roles throughout his career, including in student life and student advancement. He was appointed Vice President for Student Advancement in 2021 before assuming his current senior leadership role.
“Dr. Crawford knows Louisiana Tech, understands its people, and has spent his career serving the University,” said Dr. Rick Gallot, University of Louisiana System President and CEO. “His institutional knowledge and commitment to the Tech community will provide continuity as the University moves through this leadership transition and the search for its next president.”
Crawford assumes the acting role as President Jim Henderson begins a leave of absence through his previously announced retirement at the end of the calendar year.
The search for Louisiana Tech’s next president remains underway. Applicant materials will be accepted through November 6, with the Presidential Search Committee scheduled to meet November 13 to select semifinalists. On-campus interviews will take place November 16 and 17, followed by finalist interviews and consideration by the full Board of Supervisors during a Special Board Meeting on November 19.
Additional information about the search is available on the Louisiana Tech University Presidential Search webpage.
SPRINGHILL — Sparklight®, a leading high-speed internet and mobile service provider, is expanding Multi-Gig internet service in Springhill, Louisiana. Residential customers can now subscribe to internet plans offering speeds up to 2 Gig, providing a faster home internet option for streaming, gaming, remote work, and households with multiple connected devices.
“Sparklight is committed to providing the connectivity our neighbors need for today’s connected lives,” said Charlie Oakes, Sparklight Senior Regional Director. “With speeds up to 2 Gig, residents have greater capacity to connect multiple devices, work from home, stream entertainment and take advantage of new technologies.”
KEY FACTS
• Sparklight Multi-Gig internet provides speeds of up to 2 Gig in Springhill, Louisiana.
• Multi-Gig service provides increased capacity and low latency for streaming, gaming, remote work and connected-home technology.
• Customers can pair Multi-Gig service with Sparklight intelligent Wi-Fi powered by eero, a whole-home mesh Wi-Fi solution.
• Sparklight invested more than $11 million in network upgrades across Northern Louisiana during 2023–2025 to expand capacity, add redundancy and prepare the infrastructure for emerging technologies.
How Sparklight Multi-Gig Internet Supports Connected Homes
Streaming, online gaming, remote work and smart-home technology can place significant demands on a home internet connection, especially when multiple devices are in use at the same time. Multi-Gig home internet offers higher speeds that can help households manage these activities simultaneously.
Sparklight’s Multi-Gig internet plans offer speeds up to 2 Gig and low latency, helping provide a fast, responsive online experience for households with multiple connected devices.
Intelligent Wi-Fi Extends Whole-Home Coverage
A fast internet connection is only part of the home internet experience. Strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout the home helps keep devices connected, whether they’re in the living room, bedroom or home office.
Sparklight offers intelligent Wi-Fi powered by eero, a whole-home mesh Wi-Fi solution designed to provide reliable wireless coverage and reduce Wi-Fi dead zones. The service supports Multi-Gig connectivity, helping households extend their internet connection throughout the home.
Through the eero app, customers can monitor connected devices, troubleshoot network issues, set up secure guest access and manage parental controls, giving them greater visibility and control over their home Wi-Fi network.
More Than $11 Million in Regional Network Investment Adds Capacity
The Multi-Gig launch is part of Sparklight’s broader infrastructure investment across the communities it serves. From 2023–2025, Sparklight invested nearly $1 billion in network upgrades, including more than $11 million across Northern Louisiana.
The regional investment expands network capacity, adds redundancy and prepares the network for evolving technology demands.
These demands may include immersive entertainment, advanced telehealth applications and new smart-home technologies.
For more information and cost-saving offers for Sparklight’s Multi-Gig internet, visit sparklight.com/internet/2-gig. Sparklight intelligent Wi-Fi information is available at sparklight.com/wifi.
About Sparklight
Sparklight is a leading broadband communications provider delivering exceptional service and enabling approximately 1 million residential and business customers across 24 states to thrive and stay connected to what matters most. Through Sparklight®, the brand our customers know and trust, we’re not just shaping the future of connectivity – we’re transforming it with a commitment to innovation, reliability and customer experience at our core.
Our robust infrastructure and cutting-edge technology don’t just keep our customers connected; they help drive progress in education, business and everyday life. We’re dedicated to bridging the digital divide, empowering our communities and fostering a more connected world. When our customers choose Sparklight, they are choosing a team that is always working for them — one that believes in the relentless pursuit of reliability, because being a trusted neighbor isn’t just what we do — it’s who we are.
Pick’em players: Week 8 of Webster Parish Journal’s Pick’em Contest ends at 6 p.m. today.
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, 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.
Opens in a new tab.
The Village of Dixie Inn Board of Aldermen met in special session on Tuesday, Oct. 20 to make plans for “Christmas on the Bayou” 2026.
The holiday celebration will take place on Saturday, Dec. 5 at the boat launch on Bayou Dorcheat in Dixie Inn. The public is invited.
Four items were included under New Business. All four were approved unanimously.
The aldermen:
The Village has already begun making improvements to the launch area, filling potholes, etc.
The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Monday, October 26:
BAUGH, JERESTIN L
99339 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
99339A Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
BEENE, GERALD
100327 Simple Burglary
BIRDEN, III, JAMES
99414B Obstruction Of Justice
Please make sure forfeiture of 1,877 in US Currency is part of any plea/sentencing agreement.
BOYD, MAX DEAN
100098-CT.1 Telephone Harassment
100098-CT.2 Violation Of Protective Order
BREWER, DAMIEN D
100365 Fail to Register and Notify as a Sex
BREWER, DAMIEN D
T025722LA Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
BREWER, DAMIEN D
T097124A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
BRYANT, QUINCY KARTELL
INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
BURDITT, DAVID TROY
100039 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
CARROLL, TONYA MARIE
100193 Forgery
CHARLES, BRANDON MICHAEL
100000-CT.1 Aggravated Battery on a Police Officer
100000-CT.2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
100000-CT.3 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS
100000-CT.4 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
100000-CT.5 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
100000-CT.6 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
COBURN, TRISTAN HAYES
100678 Aggravated Assault
COLEMAN, WILL PARKER
100389 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100389 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
COMBS, KOURTNEE
100438 Violation Of Protective Order
EDGETT, BRITTANY L.
100014-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100014-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
EVANS, DAVENGELO LAJUAN
97438-CT.1 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000
97438-CT.2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000
Restituion Review Restitution owed $7,554.23 + $1,133.13 fee = $8,687.36 Balance as of 10/13/26 $3,089.36
FULLWOOD, AARON WAYNE
100690 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
GARLAND, KERRY MICHEAL
INCOMING Hit & Run Driving Resulting In Death Or Serious Bodily Injury
INCOMING General Speed Law
INCOMING No Insurance
GERMANY, EMANUAL
100548 Introducing Contraband Into Or Upon The Grounds Of Any State Correctional Institution
GILMORE, SHANNON
98772 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000
Restitution owed $1,177.89 + $176.68 fee = $1,354.57 total Balance as of 10/22/26 $929.57
GOMEZ, ALEXIS DAVID
100277 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
HANEY, SHAYVON D
99864 Theft of $25,000 or More
OC 8/31 Trial 12/7 A Status Hearing WPSD
Restitution owed $27,886.40 + $4,182.96 fee = $32,069.36
HENDERSON, QUINTON MAURICE
99952 Fail to Register and Notify as a Sex Offender 2nd Offense
HOOVER, ROBERT
100433 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
JACKSON, ARDARYOUS T
100202 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS
JACKSON, DEMARCUS TERRELL
100412 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen
JELLUM, REMINGTON GAGE
100623 CT 1 Attempted Second Degree Murder
100623 CT 2 Attempted Second Degree Murder
JOHNSON, PRINCESS MARIE
100348 Aggravated Battery – Domestic Violence
JOHNSON, QUINTON LANARD
100683 Forgery
JONES, JACOB D
99406 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
KEE, CHRISTOPHER
99862-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
99862-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
KEE, CHRISTOPHER
100689 Forgery
KEMP, DESHUNDRA T
98811-CT.1 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000
98811-CT.2 Forgery
Restitution owed on CT.1 $4,353 + $652.95 fee = $5,005.95 Balance as of 10/22/26 is $2,400
KEYES, CHESTER MUHAMMAD
100186 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense
LEMONS, GREGORY SCOTT
100303 Simple Burglary
MCCUEN, BROOKSY JAKE
100039 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
MCKAN, KRISTI BURTON
100586 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Fourth or Subsequent
MCKINNEY, DRAKE EDWARD
100115 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
MILLER, ZIGARRI
99794-CT.1 Illegal Use of a Weapon- Crime Of Violence / Uniform CDS Law
99794-CT.2 Obstruction Of Justice
OGLEE, CORY JOE DAVIS
100605 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000
REEDER, RALTERRIAN
99103A Racketeering
SHROCK, WARD
100079-CT.1 Battery of a Dating Partner
100079-CT.2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000
Restitution owed- $1,843.70, plus $276.55 fee = $2,120.25 total Paid in Full 8/31/26
SMITH, DEMICHAEL DAMONTREAL
100217 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
SMITH, MARCUS SHUN
100408-CT.1 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm
100408-CT.2 Attempted First Degree Murder
STAPLES, REBECCA MASON
99799A-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99799A-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
TRIPLETT, JR., ROBERT VERNON
99974 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS
TRIPLETT, JR., ROBERT VERNON
100661 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
TURNER, TEVIN LOVAR
99980 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
VALDEZ, JR, BASILLO ADRIAN
100277 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
WEATHERS, KENDRICK
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Third Offense
INCOMING Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Under Suspension For Certain Prior
INCOMING Speeding 11-15 MPH
INCOMING Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
YOUNG, KYLE LOGAN
100684 Simple Battery
The Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce celebrated the ribbon cutting for Springhill Climate Control Storage on Tuesday, October 20, recognizing a new local service that is already meeting a significant need in the community.
Located at 200 North Main Street, Springhill Climate Control Storage is owned by Heath and Kimberly Stephens, who transformed an existing building into a climate-controlled storage facility featuring 35 storage units. The facility is designed to provide an energy-efficient, dry, and secure environment for customers’ belongings, with security cameras in place for added peace of mind.
The demand for the service is already evident: Springhill Climate Control Storage is currently at 100% occupancy, with all 35 units rented. This immediate full capacity underscores the need for accessible, reliable storage options in Springhill and the surrounding area, demonstrating how local investment can help address practical needs within the community.
The property also carries a special connection to its owner. Before its transformation into a storage facility, the building operated as a Fred’s retail store, where Heath Stephens landed his very first job at just 15 years old. Returning to the same location years later as a business owner creates a meaningful full-circle moment and adds a personal story to the property’s continued use.
The Chamber’s ribbon cutting celebrates more than a new business. It recognizes the Stephens family’s investment in repurposing an existing property, putting a familiar building back to work in a way that serves residents and businesses alike. The facility’s full occupancy highlights the importance of identifying unmet needs and creating local solutions that keep resources and investment within the community.
The Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce congratulates Heath and Kimberly Stephens on their investment and welcomes Springhill Climate Control Storage to the Chamber family.
About the Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce
The Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(6) membership organization dedicated to business advocacy through community and economic development. The Chamber works to support local businesses, encourage investment, and promote Springhill and the surrounding North Webster Parish area as a great place to live, work, and do business.
For more information, visit SpringhillLA.com.
Ranger is a 1 year old neutered male, weighing 45 pounds.
He is available for adoption through LaMa Animal Rescue & Support Services in Sarepta.
Ranger was dumped on a deer lease in the middle of nowhere with several other dogs. He has been at LaMa since January.
Our volunteers just love him! Here is some personality information from them:
From Hillary:
“He is a nice boy and we sat in my backseat for like 15 minutes and he just wanted me to pet his little face.”
From Ashley:
“I just love him so much. He will sniff you out for a few then play bows and lets you know he’s ready to go/play!”
Ranger is heartworm negative, neutered, and up-to-date on all vaccines & flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.
Adoption Fee: $175
Interested? Please fill out the application at the link below:
https://forms.gle/id1eJGf1VnA7ftoW8
Or the PDF version on our website:
https://lamaanimalrescue.org/adopt
To schedule a meet-and-greet, you must fill out an application first.
We do not cat test at our shelter. All dogs are dog-friendly unless otherwise noted. Please only commit to adoption if you are willing to give the dog time to adjust to a home life – some dogs have been in our shelter for over a year.
To find a previously featured pet, simply go to the “Search” box at the top right corner of websterparishjournal.com, type in “Pet Project,” and click on “Search.”
I visited with a customer this week about webworms in her pecan tree. After telling her to wait until the spring to spray, I decided to further my knowledge. Spinosad made by Fertilome seems to be a good answer. Spinosad can be used right now and also the spring. It is to control borers, thrips, caterpillers, armyworms, bagworms, and many other insects. Spinosad is listed as an organic insecticide.
The dilution rate is 4 tablespoons per gallon of water. You apply when pests are present. Thoroughly spray all plant parts to wetting, including undersides of leaves. Fertilome makes Spinosad in concentrate and ready-to-use formulations. I love the RTU products because they are so easy to use. Just hook up a water hose and go to spraying.
Back to the 4-H article earlier this week. My grands and the rest of the 4-Hers had a great show Wednesday night. Hopefully next year and the years to come, we can build up our numbers of participants.
Something else that I would like to know. Would our readers suggest some products they are looking for and send to me? We are always looking for different ways to expand our lines and become the go-to place for supplies in Minden.
As always please read the label.
(Mitzi Thomas owns Minden Farm & Garden LLC. Watch for her column on Fridays in Webster Parish Journal. Email Mitzi questions at mitzithomas40@yahoo.com.)
The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of October 16 through 22. Civil suits are public record.
October 16
Richard Dawson Perry, succession over $125K.
Lamonica Moore vs. Donovan Youngblood, divorce.
Brittany Coile vs. Peyton Randall, custody.
Larry Richardson vs. Dusty Montgomery, protective order.
October 17
Portfolio Recovery vs. Chandra Parish, monies due.
October 19
Allison Boykin vs. James Randall Morgan, custody.
Republic Finance vs. Chris E. Batiste, monies due.
Leann Michelle Deaton vs. Jack Preston Deaton, divorce w/children.
Barksdale Federal Credit Union vs. David P. Biles, monies due.
Goldwater Bank vs. Michael C. Williams, Jamie Frances Thompson Williams, executory process.
October 20
Kelly Williams vs. Brent Williams, divorce w/children.
Tiara Jones, minors settlement.
October 21
Mariner Finance vs. Justin Webster, monies due.
Mariner Finance vs. Cody Cox, monies due.
Matthew Daniel Moyer, interdiction.
October 22
Alexandra Tellis vs. Tobias Tellis, protective order.
Citibank vs. Eyvette R. Watters, monies due.
Jerry Duane Stovall, succession over $125K.
Gregory Lee Schildroth, succession under $125K.
Dear Tide Family,
My name is Alayla Scott, and I am truly honored and thankful to be named the 2026 Minden High School Homecoming Queen. I am the daughter of Micheal and Ashley Penton, and being chosen for this title means so much to me. I am proud to represent Minden High School and the people who make it such a special place.
Throughout my time at MHS, I have been involved in the MHS Tiderline, where I have the privilege of serving as Captain. I am also a member of the Mental Health Club. These experiences have helped me become a stronger leader, work well with others, and encourage the people around me. Being a captain has taught me the value of responsibility, teamwork, and showing pride in my school.
Homecoming is one of the most exciting times of the year because it allows our students, teachers, staff, alumni, and community to come together. From our themed dress-up days and school activities to the football game and homecoming court presentation, it is a time to create lasting memories and celebrate our school traditions. Most importantly, it reminds us that we are all part of one Tide family.
I want to thank the MHS administration, teachers, staff, students, and everyone who has supported me and helped make this moment possible. I am especially thankful for my parents and family for their love and encouragement. I appreciate this opportunity more than words can express, and I will do my best to represent Minden High School with pride, respect, and kindness.
I wish everyone safe travels to and from Minden and hope you all have a wonderful and memorable homecoming. Let’s come together, show our school spirit, and cheer on our Mighty Crimson Tide as they take the field and beat the Cowboys.
As always, ROLL TIDE ROLL!
Sincerely,
Alayla Scott
2026 Minden High School Homecoming Queen
Legal staffer sentenced for $173k theft from law firm
A former employee of a Shreveport law firm was sentenced Monday, October 19, 2026, after pleading guilty to stealing $173,000 from the firm. Sarah Steiner, 43, pleaded guilty as charged to one count of felony theft involving $25,000 or more before Caddo District Court Judge John D. Mosely Jr. Judge Mosely sentenced Steiner to 10 years at hard labor, with all but two years suspended, followed by five years of active supervised probation. Steiner was also ordered to pay $147,000 in restitution to the Trey Morris Law Firm.
Former Southwood High School band director indicted on federal child pornography charges
A former Southwood High School band director has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges involving the sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child pornography. Lennard Holden, 50, of Shreveport, was indicted Oct. 8, according to an announcement Tuesday from U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. Federal prosecutors allege Holden asked a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct and produce a video. The FBI is seeking information from additional potential victims, particularly former Southwood band students between 2011 and 2026. Holden faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in federal prison if convicted of all charges. The allegations have not been proven in court, and Holden is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
By Josh Beavers
Near the end of No Country for Old Men, Sheriff Ed Tom Bell drives out to visit his Uncle Ellis. Ed Tom is worn down. He’s been chasing a killer he can’t understand, and he’s convinced the world has gotten meaner than the one his daddy policed.
Ellis doesn’t offer much sympathy. He tells Ed Tom about their Uncle Mac, shot down on his own porch long before Ed Tom was born. Then he says, “What you got ain’t nothin’ new. This country’s hard on people.” He tells his nephew you can’t stop what’s coming, and that thinking it all waits on you is just vanity.
I think about that scene every time somebody tells me the world is going to hell. Maybe it is, but it’s been headed that way for a long time.
Shakespeare wrote Hamlet around 1600. In the play’s most famous speech, the young prince stands alone and asks whether it’s better to keep living or to end it. That’s what the speech is really about, and there’s no use dancing around it. Hamlet lays out exactly why he’s tired of living, and most of his complaints could have been posted on Facebook this morning.
He talks about “the proud man’s contumely,” which is an old way of describing arrogant people who look down on you, and “the insolence of office,” along with the way good, patient people get pushed aside by the unworthy. Yall, I heard a story Thursday afternoon from a friend that would curl your toes about the proud man and his contumely. It did not die with the Bard.
Digression. Again. Sorry.
A long time ago, during a disagreement, a boss asked me if I knew who his father was. Years later, a different boss asked me the same question, nearly word for word. Yeah, I knew who their fathers were, and so did everybody else in the building. Neither one of them would’ve been sitting behind that desk otherwise.
I also once knew a man who took over an office and told the people in it that, as far as they were concerned, he was god. I’ve met plenty of small people who treat their tiny bit of power like it’s the hand of the Almighty, and I’d bet Shakespeare met his share, too.
Hamlet complains about “th’oppressor’s wrong” and “the law’s delay.” More than four centuries later, we still watch people with money and the right last name walk away from things that would put an ordinary man in prison for years. If there were real justice, some politicians might be in those cells instead of the poor and desperate people who fill them now.
A friend asked me something recently that I haven’t been able to shake. You work forty years or more, and everything goes up except your pay. You might never be able to retire, and if you do, you might spend those years in poverty. Then you die. What’s the point? How do you respond to that? I am asking yall because this person is right. I had no idea how to respond because wisdom does not always come with age. When a 20-30 something asks the old man a question like that, it is embarrassing not knowing the answer. But again….digression.
Shakespeare had his prince ask nearly the same thing. He wonders who would “fardels bear, to grunt and sweat under a weary life.” A fardel is a bundle, the kind of load you carry on your back, and my friend was describing the same weight. Throw in “the whips and scorns of time,” the way the years wear down your body and your savings, and you’ve described most people I know over fifty.
Then there’s “the pangs of dispriz’d love.” Almost everyone has loved somebody who didn’t love them back, or who quit loving them somewhere along the way.
So when people say the world has never been this bad, I’ve felt that way myself. But Shakespeare was writing these grievances down before the Pilgrims ever landed at Plymouth, and Ellis was telling Ed Tom the same thing from a wheelchair in a dusty Texas farmhouse.
Hamlet figures we put up with it because we’re scared of what comes after, and the devil we know beats the one we don’t. Ellis is closer to acceptance. It’s always been hard, and it’s not going to quit being hard just because you finally noticed.
There’s another tired old cop in another dark movie who lands somewhere else. At the end of Se7en, after everything has gone about as wrong as it can, Morgan Freeman’s Detective Somerset quotes Hemingway: “The world is a fine place and worth fighting for.” Then he says he agrees with the second part.
I’ve always loved that line. Somerset has just watched the worst thing he could imagine happen in an empty field, and he’s honest about what the world is. He decides to stay and fight for it anyway.
Hamlet set it up as a choice between suffering the slings and arrows or taking up arms against them. I don’t think it has to be one or the other. You can agree with Ellis that none of this is new and still side with Somerset about what to do with it.
The arrogant bosses and crooked oligarchs and demagogues were here long before us, and they’ll outlast us, too. I’ve made my peace with that. I just know which old man I’d rather end up being.
Josh Beavers is an award-winning columnist who earned four Best Columnist awards from the Louisiana Press Association. He traded the newsroom for the classroom in 2013, convinced that teaching young people to write, to think, and to become productive members of their community was the more important work.
Send non-profit calendar events to wpjnewsla@gmail.com .
Every Friday in October
7 p.m. American Legion Post #182 BINGO, Ringgold.
October 20-24
Webster Parish Fair, Minden. (See special event schedule.)
October 24
6 p.m. Fire in the Field, at 870 Highway 516 in Heflin. The evening will feature worship led by Enrique Magana, worship leader at First Methodist Church in Monroe.
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.
Phonetic: /kum-PUNK-shun/
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition
ompunction refers to a feeling of misgiving, that is, doubt or suspicion especially concerning a future event. It can also refer to a feeling of guilt or regret. The word is typically used in negative constructions.
We moved ahead with the plans without compunction.
They felt no compunctions about their crimes.
Michael Dylon Miller, 35, 1800 block Holly Hock Dr., Shreveport: arrested Oct. 19 by Louisiana State Police for driving under suspension, speeding, fugitive warrant Caddo Parish SO, expired registration. Bond set $500.
Tori Michelle Kemp, 26, 300 block Morgan St., Springhill: arrested Oct. 20 by WPSO on warrants for possession of CDS Sch. I, entry or remaining after forbidden. Bond set $4,000.
Douglas Cloud, 41, 300 block Myrick Loop, Jamestown: tested Oct. 21 by WPSO on warrants. No bond set.
Elroy Anderson, 42, 400 block Oad Dr., Springhill: arrested Oct. 21 by WPSO for no registration, DWI first offense, no drivers license, open container. No bond set.
Shane Lee Neal, 49, 1000 block Mack Dr., Haughton: arrested Oct. 22 by WPSO for misdemeanor theft. No bond set.
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.
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.
Tommy A. McDaniel
September 30, 1953 — October 21, 2026
Minden
Visitation: 1 p.m. Saturday, October 24, 2026, Eastside Missionary Baptist Church, Minden.
Memorial service: 2 p.m., immediately following visitation.
Christopher Wade Maness
December 28, 1960 — September 21, 2026
Athens/Minden
Luncheon: 11 a.m., First Presbyterian Church of Athens, Highway 9.
Memorial service: 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m., Craighead Cemetery, Highway 518, Athens.
David Harold Rigsby
January 13, 1950 — October 19, 2026
Haughton
Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, October 24, First Baptist Church, Haughton.
Funeral service: 11 a.m., immediately after visitation.
Burial: Hill Crest Memorial Park Cemetery.
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.)
The Boil Advisory issued on 10/19/26 for the following areas has been lifted:
700 – 900 Blocks of Warren Street
200 – 216 & 714 Edna Street
100 Block of James Place
Please visit the City of Minden website at Mindenusa.com for further information.
By Shannon Wright
The Sibley Town Council held its regular monthly meeting Monday, October 12, approving a resolution authorizing the purchase of a new Exmark mower.
Resolution No. 14-2026 provides for the purchase to be funded through the Webster Parish Police Jury’s annual allotment to the town. Any cost exceeding that allotment, if any, will be paid from the town’s own funds.
Mayor Robert Smart expressed appreciation for the Police Jury’s continued financial support, noting that the funding helps the town maintain its roadsides and public areas.
“I’m very appreciative of the funding that the Police Jury helps us with,” Smart said. “This goes a long way in helping us keep the road ditches mowed throughout the town as well as other areas.”
Smart said the town’s current mowers have served the community for years, but getting a new one has become increasingly important.
“These mowers last many years, but we are currently operating on borrowed time with the two that we currently have,” Smart said.
Residents are also reminded that Sibley remains under a burn ban until further notice, according to the fire department. Although the area has received some rainfall, the restriction remains in effect.
Smart and aldermen recently attended the Small-Town Mayors Alliance meeting in Many and brought back some valuable information that they hope to implement in Sibley.
During the meeting, residents also spoke positively about the women serving on the town’s maintenance crew, recognizing the pride they take in their work and the difference it makes in keeping Sibley beautiful.
The town is also looking for help preserving its local history. Town Clerk Sherry McCann is asking residents to donate or share photographs, yearbooks and other items related to Sibley’s past as the town works to build a collection that can be enjoyed by future generations.
McCann emphasized that residents do not have to part with their original photographs to contribute. She will make copies of submitted photos so the originals can be returned to their owners.
“I really want one of the hotel that was back there on Natchitoches if anyone has one,” McCann said, referring to a historic hotel that once stood in the area.
Residents who have old photographs, yearbooks or other items documenting Sibley’s history are encouraged to contact McCann at Town Hall.
Sibley Town Council meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at Town Hall. All residents are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Pick’em players: Week 8 of Webster Parish Journal’s Pick’em Contest is under way.
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, 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.
Opens in a new tab.
By Paige Gurgainers
The Webster Parish Fair Parade brought a mix of participants together representing civic groups, youth organizations, the local pageant community, political candidates and more through downtown Minden on Tuesday, Oct. 20, kicking off the annual fair.
A last-minute route change accommodated the parade’s political entries while keeping campaign displays away from the downtown early voting location. Tuesday also marked the opening of early voting for the Nov. 3 election.
Louisiana polling places have a 600-foot campaign-free zone, according to the Secretary of State’s Office. The restriction applies to displays advocating for or against candidates, political parties or propositions on the ballot.
Despite the route adjustment, the parade continued its role as the traditional opening celebration for the Webster Parish Fair.
Fair activities continue through Saturday, Oct. 24. Thursday will feature Senior Citizens Day from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Civic Center.
Friday’s schedule includes a livestock auction at 1 p.m., followed by gates opening at 5 p.m. and rides at 6 p.m. Saturday’s gates open at noon, with Kids Day from 1 to 5 p.m., free admission for children 12 and younger, and a pizza-eating contest at 3 p.m. in the Forestry Building.
General admission is $3.
