If the traffic gods aren’t moody and you avoid getting behind a chicken truck or a Cell Phone Fanatic with poor lane discipline, it takes 40 minutes or less to get from Joe Aillet Stadium in Ruston to FMOL Health/St. Francis Stadium in Monroe.

Candy from a baby. And easy 40 minutes from one football stadium to the other.

Unless … unless you are a football player at either Louisiana Tech or Louisiana-Monroe.

Then it takes 26 years.

Until Saturday’s 24-0 Tech victory over ULM on a comfy early-fall night in Monroe, the two teams hadn’t played since 2000, a well-documented but still mind-numbing fact, considering they are rivals and neighbors.

Think about it: The last time these two played, a boy with a new PlayStation and a girl with frosted hair tips picked out tapes at Blockbuster before the game and listened to Britney Spears after. Maybe talked about President Clinton. Maybe went to see “Gladiator,” speaking of blockbusters, at the picture show Sunday.

It’s been a minute.

So, since Tech joined ULM in the Sun Belt Conference this past July 1, October 17 had been circled in Warhawk Maroon and Bulldog Blue. Which is why we offer the briefest of recaps, just to applaud to football gods for MAKING these two finally play.

At least the wait seemed worth it, maybe even for sides, although you knew there had to be a winner and a loser. Lots of pregame tomfoolery in shady Pecan Grove. Good weather. Tech coming off a tight, emotional win over its south Louisiana rival, ULL, and ULM, 0-5, looking for an upset to get the wheels back on the bus and start the season’s backside strong.

At halftime, things were far from decided.

More to the point, for a score in this rivalry, we had to wait 26 years plus a half of football. Egg-Egg after 30 minutes. Tech couldn’t kick a field goal and ULM couldn’t get past the enemy 43, a piece of real estate the Warhawks didn’t invade until the game was decided.

Tech got an interception on the first play from scrimmage in the second half — that’s nine straight games with a takeaway — quickly turned its possession into a touchdown drive, ran the ball and threw short passes to minimize Warhawk pressure, created bonus points, and let its defense post its first shutout since the 2025 season opener.

The Bulldogs, 4-2, moved to 2-0 in the Sun Belt and, with wins over ULL and ULM, captured the inaugural Governor’s Cup, a three-team football competition decided as quickly as possible with Tech’s back-to-back wins. The Dogs also got an early lead in the Radiance Technologies I-20 Showdown Rivalry Series, another inaugural competition, this one between interstate rivals ULM and Tech. Tech’s Soccer Bulldogs beat ULM earlier this fall, and Tech’s win in football gives the school a 2-0 edge in a competition that continues until the final shot put is thrown, until the final softball and baseball out is made.

Love it.

The most immediate bottom line is this: at 2-0, Tech is undefeated against ULM in football this millennium. We won’t have to wait another 26 years for the rematch.

Tech plays its Homecoming game Saturday at 4 against Old Dominion (2-5, 1-3) and its stingy defense; ULM is at even-steven Troy (3-3, 1-1) at 3.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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By Paige Gurgainers –

Approximately 2,000 children took part in Webster Parish Libraries’ “Scene It!” Trunk-or-Treat Tuesday evening, with lines stretching outside the Minden Branch as families gathered for a night of movie magic.

The Oct. 20 celebration brought cinematic scenes to life through decorated trunks and a movie-inspired Attraction House, continuing a community tradition that grows each year.

Behind the evening’s attractions were weeks of hands-on preparation. Library staff gathered at the Minden Branch to paint, craft and create props, transforming their work into an immersive experience for children and families.

This year’s “Scene It!” theme drew inspiration from movie classics, family favorites and adventures. Local businesses and organizations were invited to recreate movie scenes at their trunks, combining treats with creative displays.

Held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the event followed the Webster Parish Fair Parade, giving families another opportunity to enjoy community festivities in Minden.

Webster Parish Libraries launched its annual Trunk-or-Treat events in 2021 to offer a safe, family-friendly Halloween activity and strengthen connections between residents, businesses and community organizations. The celebrations have continued to grow in popularity in both the northern and southern parts of the parish.

The movie magic continues at the Springhill Branch on Thursday, Oct. 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. A rain date is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 30.

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Deer season is underway across Louisiana, and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) reminds hunters to check season dates and limits for the deer area they plan to hunt. Season dates for each of the state’s 10 deer areas can be found on the hunting and regulations page on the LDWF website.

New this season: Deer Area 1 bag limits

The main regulation change this season is the limit for Deer Area 1. Hunters in Deer Area 1 may now take no more than two antlered deer and no more than five antlerless deer.

The season limit of six deer is unchanged. Hunters should note that some deer areas have lower bag limits. The 2026-27 Louisiana Hunting and WMA Regulations will have more information on bag limits for each deer area.

Deer tags issued with licenses

Limits differ from one deer area to another, so hunters will receive the following tags with their licenses:

One antlered tag

Two either-sex tags

Three antlerless tags

This mix of tags lets hunters stay within the limits of any of the state’s 10 deer areas. An either-sex tag may be used on an antlered or an antlerless deer, as long as the harvest stays within the limit for that deer area.

Visit the LDWF hunting and regulations page for information on dates, deer area maps and full regulations.

Please contact LDWF Deer Program Manager Brad Kennon at rkennon@wlf.la.gov        for more information.

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The Mt. Lebanon Historical Society invites you to join us on Saturday, November 7, 2026 for the Old Mt. Lebanon Days Festival at the Stagecoach Trail Museum, three miles south of Gibsland. Activities are from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, and include bingo, a cakewalk with DJ John Cole, and a silent auction. Our lunch menu will be: gourmet hot dogs, chips, desserts, and a drink (tea, soft drink, or water).

This year’s raffle item is a 4-gallon two basket fish cooker from R&V Works.  Raffle tickets are $5.00 each, and the drawing will be at 3:00 p.m. You do not need to be present to win. Tickets can be purchased from Gibsland Grill, or by calling 318-843-6175 or texting 318-243-2343. Tickets may also be purchase on-site the day of the festival. Make plans to attend! This is a fun day, and an important fundraiser for our museum.

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Friday, October 23:

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

ARCENEAUX, JENAYA LEEANN
100315 Attempted Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

BAMBURG, JUSTIN
100156 Aggravated Battery

BELL, KHALIL DAVON
99824 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS (Twenty-Eight Grams Or More)

BELL, SHATORA CHAMPAYNE
99979 Simple Battery

COKER, ELIZABETH DIANNE
100566 Theft Under $1,000

COMEAUX, CASSIDY J
100351-CT.1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian
100351-CT.2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

CRITTON, XAVIER DESHUN
100602-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
100602-CT.1 Introducing Contraband Into Or Upon The Grounds Of Any State Correctional Institution

CURRY, CHARNEIDRA L
100386 Aggravated Battery

DUCK, STEPHANIE RENA
100533 Simple Battery

DUPREE, CAROLYN SUMPTER
100519 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

DUPREE, KAMERON KEESHAWAN
100462 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100462 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

FERGUSON, LOLA SUNSHINE
100686 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)

FLOURNOY, RAVI ANDRELAVERE
100101 Possession of Schedule II CDS

FLOURNOY, RAVI ANDRELAVERE
T031726 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T031726A Failure To Secure Registration

FREDERICK, CLINT JAMES
100692-CT.1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100692-CT.2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

FRY, MATTHEW D.
100286 Violation Of Leash Law
OC 9/4 Restitution – $749.98 plus $112.50 fee = $862.48 total

FRY, MATTHEW D.
T229326 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Tail Lights

GRAVES, ANTHONY
100569 Gross Littering

GREEN, QUINCEY T.
100681-CT.1 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
100681-CT.2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GREENARD, TEVIN JMAR
100419 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100419 CT. 2 Failure to Stop and/or Yield

HARRIS, VONTAVIOUS DEWAYNE
100538-CT.1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100538-CT.2 Failure to Yield Right of Way

INGRAM, ALLYSSA FAITH
100201-CT.1 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
100201-CT.2 Aggravated Obstruction Of A Highway Of Commerce

JACKSON, TADAZION DAISHUN
100397-CT.1 Simple Battery
100397-CT.2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

JOHNSON, KAYLEIGH
INCOMING Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Possession of a Schedule I CDS
INCOMING Possession of a Schedule IV CDS
INCOMING Illegal Use, Consumption, Possession, Or Distribution Of Cds In Presence Of Persons Under 17

JONES, ASHTIN RENARD
100498 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

KEMP, TORI MICHELLE
99869-CT.1 Possession of CDS I Marijuana (More Than Fourteen Grams)
99869-CT.2 Entry On Or Remaining In Places Or On Land After Being Forbidden

LABORDE, MITCHEAL STEVEN
100556 Violation Of Protective Order

LANE, SARAH JANE
99543 Simple Burglary

LAWSON, THOMAS AARON
100476 Cruelty To Juveniles

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

MILES, SHUNTA
100439 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

MILLER, VINCENT J.
100693-CT.1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense
100693-CT.2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
100693-CT.3 No Insurance
100693-CT.4 Failure to Use Safety Belt

MIXON, CAITLIN B.
100516 Entry On Or Remaining In Places Or On Land After Being Forbidden

MOORE, DANA MICHELLE
100509 Forgery

MOORE, TIMOTHY
INCOMING Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle Without Current Number Plates
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle Without Proof Of Insurance
INCOMING No Motorcycle Endorsement

NEAL, KANE MADISON
100677 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

NEWSOM, TREY
100471-CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense
100471-CT. 2 Reckless Operation of a Vehicle
100471-CT. 3 Failure to Use Safety Belt

NEWSOM, TREY
100023 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

POOL, TRACE TUGGER
99241 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99241 CT. 2 Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test
Restitution owed to the victim- $2,081.73, plus $312.26 fee = $2,393.99 total

POTTS, TIFFANY
T127824 Operating A Vehicle With An Expired Driver’s License
T127824A Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate
T127824B Operating A Vehicle Without A Left Mirror

POTTS, TIFFANY
100306-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100306-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule IV CDS

ROBERTSON, IV, MURPHY LEE
100676 Simple Burglary Of An Inhabited Dwelling

RUSHING, JR., CLYDE E.
100685 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

STEWART, KENNETH MICHAEL
100466 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

THOMAS, PEYTON LEON
99334 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

WARE, BRANDON A
98666 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

WARE, BRANDON A
100687 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

WASHINGTON, LAKEISHA
100588-CT.1 Criminal Trespassing
100588-CT.2 Resisting An Officer
100588-CT.3 Disturbing the Peace by Appearing in an Intoxicated Condition

WEATHERS, TYKENDRICK
99894 Simple Robbery

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Converse woman killed in two-vehicle crash on Highway 171 in DeSoto Parish

A 30-year-old Converse woman was killed Tuesday morning, October 20, in a two-vehicle crash involving an 18-wheeler on U.S. Highway 171 near Phillips Road in DeSoto Parish.
According to Louisiana State Police Troop G, troopers responded to the crash at approximately 7:30 a.m.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee was traveling north in the right lane of U.S. Highway 171. A 2015 Peterbilt 18-wheeler was also traveling north in the same lane ahead of the Jeep.
For reasons that remain under investigation, the Jeep collided with the rear of the Peterbilt.

Mansfield Police apprehend suspect in Old Jefferson Highway carjacking and assault

The Mansfield Police Department has confirmed that a suspect involved in an alleged carjacking and assault on Old Jefferson Highway is in custody following an incident Thursday evening, October 15, 2026.
According to police, officers were notified at approximately 5:25 p.m. Thursday by a third party reporting that a man had been injured during a carjacking.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers learned that a woman had reportedly approached the victim and asked him for a ride. After entering the vehicle, the woman allegedly assaulted the driver, forced him out of the vehicle and drove away.
Authorities subsequently identified the suspect as Niquesha Robertson.
In an update issued Friday, October 16, the Mansfield Police Department confirmed that Robertson had been apprehended and was in custody.

Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office arrests former Bossier High School employee

Detectives with the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested a Bossier City man Oct. 19 on two counts of indecent behavior with juveniles following an investigation into multiple encounters with a juvenile student.
Jarory Morris, 30, of the 3000 block of Black Lake Circle in Bossier City, was employed at Bossier High School at the time of the alleged incidents, which occurred on multiple occasions while the victim was a juvenile student.
The investigation began immediately after detectives were made aware of the allegations, when the victim, now an adult, came forward to report the encounters. During the investigation, Morris was advised of his Miranda rights and admitted to two encounters, corroborating the victim’s account. Morris was subsequently taken into custody.

Three arrested following Shreveport home invasion that injured teenager

Shreveport police arrested three suspects following an Oct. 18 home invasion that left a 16-year-old girl injured. Officers responded to the 4700 block of Arnsdale Circle around noon, where four people were inside the residence during the incident. The teenager was transported to Ochsner LSU Health with a head injury and broken wrist. Investigators identified the suspects as Maciah Wilson, 17; Christian Henderson, 18; and Jaydin Terry, 19. Police located a black Nissan Sentra connected to the incident with all three suspects inside. Wilson fled on foot but was quickly apprehended. All three were booked into Shreveport City Jail on one count each of home invasion. Additional charges are possible as the investigation continues.

Traffic alert: Road resealing scheduled for Lyons Hill road in Claiborne Parish

The Claiborne Parish Police Jury has announced that road resealing work is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2026, along a portion of Lyons Hill Road near Homer.
According to the Police Jury, the Claiborne Parish Highway Department will conduct resealing operations from the Town of Homer city limits to the intersection of Lyons Hill Road and Hill Farm Road.
Motorists traveling through the area are urged to use caution while crews perform the roadway maintenance.

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Thursday, October 22
Doors Open At 8 a.m. (Coffee & Donuts Served)
Senior Citizens Day 9 a.m. Until 1:30 p.m. (Civic Center)
Rides Start At 6 p.m. “Armband Nite”
4-H Goat, L.a.m.b., Beef Showmanship At 6 p.m.
4-H Dairy And Doug Sale Showmanship At 7 p.m.

Friday, October 23
Buyers’ Luncheon At 11:30 a.m.
Livestock Auction At 1 p.m. (4-H Show Barn)
Admission Gate Opens At 5 p.m.
Rides Start At 6 p.m.

Saturday. October 24
Fair Gates Open At 12 p.m.
Kids Day! 1 p.m. To 5 p.m. (Kid’s Special Ends 5 p.m.)
Free Admission For Kids 12& Under
Pizza Eating Contest At 3 p.m. Forestry Bld) Sponsored By Johnnys Pizza

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Thursday

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

Thursday Night

Clear, with a low around 52. Calm wind.

Friday

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

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 53.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 81.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 49.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.

*Information provided by National Weather Service

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

Every Friday in October

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

October 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 31

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

November 7

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

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

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

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

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

November 10

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

November 14

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

November 16-28

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

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Word of the Day: Credulous

Phonetic: /cred· u· lous/
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition
ready to believe especially on slight or uncertain evidence
accused of swindling credulous investors
Few people are credulous enough to believe such nonsense.
proceeding from credulity
credulous superstitions 



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Loading crossword puzzle. One moment please.

Play Sudoku online!

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Traffic Court Friday, October 12:

ABDULRAHEEM, MOHAMMED
T229126 Speeding 25 & OVER
*83/55

BANKS, WALTER EARL
T229226 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T229226A Improper Turn And/Or Failure To Give Required Signal

BENSON, ERIC
T229626 Improper Child Restraint

BROWNING, ISAIAH JOEL
T229726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BRYAN, ZACHARY SCOTT
T229826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BUCKMAN, DYLAN GLENN
T229926 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*88/70

BUSH, SHUNTA SHUNELL
T090924 Speeding 16-24 MPH
T090924A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

BUTLER, ADAM K.
T230026 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CANIZALES, DANIEL
T230126 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License
T230126A Speeding 16-24 MPH
*91/70

CHANDLER, JOE ALBERT
T106626 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T106626A Improper Lane Usage

CHEATWOOD JR., ROBERT GLENN
T052926 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

CORLEY, BRICHANNA
T230226 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*91/70

CRAIG, ZANE
T230326 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CULVERHOUSE, SR., JAMES ALLEN
T232326 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T232326A Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate
T232326B Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

CULVERHOUSE, SR., JAMES ALLEN
T102926 Operating A Vehicle With An Inadequate Windshield
T102926A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

EVANS, CHRISTOPHER
T230426 Improper Lane Usage
T230426A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

EVANS, FELIX
T230526 Failure to Use Safety Belt

FLORES, ROBERT JULIAN
T230626 Speeding 11-15 MPH
*68/55

FORD, III, OTIS CHARLES
T230726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

FURGASON, JAMES RUSSELL
T072720 Failure To Report An Accident And/Or Provide Proper Identification (Damages Over $100)
T072720A Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
T072720B Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GILBERT, KANIYA SHANNEK
T230826 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T230826A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

GIPSON, JR, KENNETH WAYNE
T229026 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Stop Lamps And/Or Turn Signals
T229026A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

HAMILTON, KELANDRE FERNEL
T230926 Failure to Use Safety Belt

HODGES, JENNIFER LYNN
T229426 No Insurance
T229426A Operating a Vehicle Without Properly Lit Lamps for Condition

JOHNSON, LEE
T017425 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

KIMBLE, SHARNECIA RENEE
T231026 Failure to Use Safety Belt

LASTRAPES, DENNIS J
T231126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

MARTIN, BRANDON LEROY
T231226 Failure to Use Safety Belt

MCCORMICK, VICKIE
T231326 Speeding 11-15 MPH
*70/55
Traffic, Webster

PUMPHREY, KENNETH
T229526 Speeding 25 & OVER

SHERRY, JONATHAN ANDERS
T231426 Speeding 11-15 MPH
*69/55

SNEED, JANE DENISE
T231526 Speeding 11-15 MPH
*70/55

STUMON, SHAKEDRA SHANICE
T231626 Failure to Use Safety Belt

TALLEY, KELLY
T231726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

TRAYLOR, ALAYIAH NEESHA
T231826 Improper Passing – Accident
*Crash

WEST, DARRELL
T231926 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

WILLIS, STANLEY SENTELL
T232026 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WOODARD, BARBARA S.
T232126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

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Randy Fred Mason
April 5, 1957  –  October 19, 2026
Springhill
A memorial service will be planned at a later date.

Elizabeth Juanita Peavy
November 15, 1936 – October 14, 2026
Ringgold/Heflin
Visitation: 1 p.m. Thursday, October 22, 2026, Rockett Funeral Home, Ringgold.
Funeral service: 2 p.m., immediately following visitation.
Burial: Bistineau Cemetery, Heflin.

Webster Parish Journal publishes paid complete obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $80. Contact your funeral provider or wpjnewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Above death notices are no charge.)

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By Pat Culverhouse –

No charges are anticipated against a Webster Parish homeowner who shot and killed a south Louisiana man Sunday who was allegedly attempting to break into his home.

Sheriff Jason Parker said investigators have determined 44-year-old Billy McFarland of Marrero was shot multiple times as he attempted to gain entrance into the residence on U.S. Hwy. 80 west of Minden.

Parker said McFarland’s body has been sent to Little Rock, Arkansas for autopsy to determine a possible cause for the actions which led to his death.

Parker said the incident began around 5:23 a.m. with a 911 call reporting a domestic disturbance inside a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on U.S. Hwy. 80. The vehicle reportedly crashed when McFarland allegedly jumped the female driver. He fled the scene before a nearby deputy arrived.

McFarland reportedly went to the residence where he vandalized two vehicles, breaking the rear window on one and the windshield of another.  He then began banging on the door of the residence.

When he received no response, McFarland reportedly moved to the rear of the residence where he climbed atop an air conditioning unit and used a pocket knife to cut through a window screen and enter the residence.

“We learned he had the knife in his hand when he came through the window,” Parker said. “The homeowner apparently feared for his life and for the lives of others who were inside the residence. We do not anticipate any charges, but we will continue to investigate and forward the results to the District Attorney for review.”

Parker said Sheriff’s investigators learned McFarland had an extensive criminal history in his home area, including felonies.

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The City of Minden has issued a Boil Advisory effective 10/19/26 for the following areas:

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.

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SPRINGHILL, LA. – The Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the ribbon cutting of The Lucky Pup Too, a new downtown shopping destination offering vintage items, antiques, thrifted finds, and unique treasures.

Located at the intersection of Reynolds and 1st Street, The Lucky Pup Too brings new life to an underutilized building while creating another reason for residents and visitors to explore downtown Springhill. The shop adds to the growing variety of local shopping experiences available in the community, encouraging shoppers to discover hidden gems while supporting small businesses.

Beyond its unique merchandise, The Lucky Pup Too offers shoppers an opportunity to make a difference through its fundraising efforts benefiting LaMa Animal Rescue. Purchases help support the organization’s work on behalf of animals in need, allowing customers to combine their love of thrifting and treasure hunting with a meaningful cause.

The Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce recognizes the importance of businesses that invest in existing spaces, contribute to downtown revitalization, and find creative ways to give back to the community. The Lucky Pup Too represents all three, adding new activity to an important downtown intersection while supporting local animal welfare efforts.

“We love seeing a business take an underutilized space and give it new life,” said Amber Cobb, Executive Director of the Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce. “The Lucky Pup Too gives people another reason to explore downtown Springhill, shop local, and discover something special. The fact that their shopping can also benefit our furry friends makes this business even more meaningful to our community.”

The Chamber congratulates The Lucky Pup Too on its ribbon cutting and welcomes the business to the Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce family. Community members are encouraged to visit the shop, explore its selection of vintage and secondhand treasures, and support its mission to help animals in need.

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Congratulations, Renee White of Minden, shown here with Title Sponsor Under Dawgs owner Claudine Thomas, receives her $100 prize. White had 8 of 10 answers correct, as did several other players. White won with the tie breaker.

Pick’em players: Week 8 of Webster Parish Journal’s Pick’em Contest has begun.

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.

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One man. One crew. One dream.

What began as a dream in 1975 has grown into a legacy built on hard work and determination. Founded by Clint Woods, Woods Tank, Inc. is a family-owned and operated steel fabrication company located in Minden, Louisiana that has proudly served customers across the United States for more than 50 years. Specializing in the construction, repair, and maintenance of aboveground storage tanks (API 650, API 653, D100, ASME, AWWA), the company has established itself in the construction industry through high-quality work, dependable service, and dedication to getting the job done correctly and safely.

The Woods Tank story is about much more than steel fabrication and storage tanks. It is a story of humble beginnings, countless sacrifices, and the determination of one man who believed in what he could build.

Woods Tank was not built overnight, nor was its success handed to it. It was built from the ground up through long days, late nights, hard work, and the willingness to keep pushing forward when times were difficult. The greatest attribute Woods Tank has is the unity of its people. Like any business, there were challenges along the way, but giving up was never part of the plan. Every obstacle overcome, every project completed, and every lesson learned helped shape the company into what it is today.

Throughout the years, Woods Tank has continued to grow and expand, reaching customers and industries throughout the country while remaining true to the values on which it was founded. Despite its growth, the company has never forgotten where it came from or the people who helped make it possible.

What started with one man and a single crew has grown into a multimillion-dollar family business and a legacy that extends far beyond the tanks it builds. Clint Woods created more than a company. He built a foundation for future generations, created opportunities for hardworking individuals and their families, and established a name that continues to stand for quality and integrity.

New Beginnings

In March 2026, Woods Tank, Inc. entered a new chapter in its history as founder Clint Woods stepped down from his role as president, appointing Susan “Nikki” Woods as the company’s new president. Clint Woods dedicated himself to building a company rooted in hard work, determination, and integrity. As he prepared to pass on the legacy, he believed there was no one better suited to lead Woods Tank into its next chapter than someone who understood firsthand the sacrifices, values, and dedication that built it.

With more than 20 years of experience, Mrs. Woods’ journey reflects those very principles. She began her career with Woods Tank at just 18 years old, working as a Firewatch.

Throughout the years, she had the opportunity to work alongside talented and hardworking individuals who taught her lessons that extended far beyond the responsibilities of any job. From understanding the demands of working in the field to recognizing the importance of teamwork, leadership, and perseverance, each experience helped shape the person and leader she would become. As the years passed, Mrs. Woods continued to grow alongside the company. What began as a job became a career, a passion, and ultimately, an important part of who she is today

For Mr. Woods, the decision to appoint her as president was about more than continuing a family name. It was about placing the future of his life’s work in the hands of someone who understood its foundation and shared his commitment to preserving it.

Today, Woods Tank continues to stand strong. Over the past five years, the company has successfully completed 491 jobs totaling $61 million in completed work, while maintaining zero recordable workplace accidents.

Behind those numbers are the people who make it all possible. Every project completed represents countless individuals who take pride in their work. These accomplishments are a testament to the men and women who continue to uphold the standards Woods Tank was built upon.

As Mrs. Woods leads the company into the future, she does so with a deep appreciation for where it all began, the people who helped pave the way, and the responsibility of carrying forward a legacy more than five decades in the making.

While the leadership has changed, the foundation remains as strong as ever. The same determination that inspired Clint Woods to start with one crew and a dream continues to drive Woods Tank forward today.

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I thought I was finished making lifelong friends. At 65, I figured the roster was pretty much set. I wasn’t looking for new ones, and I certainly didn’t expect to make some of the most meaningful friendships of my life at this age. These days, most things in my life are either planned or predictable. But over the past decade, I’ve been surprised by how many new friends I’ve made, and even more by how I made them.

It started in 2014 with Battlefields and Baguettes, a University of Southern Mississippi tour I co-hosted with military historian Andy Wiest. We traveled through England, Belgium, Normandy, and France. Andy led the group through World War I and World War II battlefields and cemeteries during the day. I handled lunch and dinner. He knew where the battles were fought. I knew where to eat afterward. It was a good arrangement.

People had also been asking me to take them to Tuscany, to the places I’d written about after an extended stay overseas. I kept telling the university, “If y’all put a trip together, I’ll host it.” Nothing happened for two years, so one Sunday afternoon I announced a Tuscany trip on Facebook. It filled almost immediately. A waiting list formed, and we traveled again. And again. Before long, the waiting list had its own waiting list, and people wanted to know where we were going next. And that’s how Yonderlust Travel began. It was supposed to be a fun side project, not a business. Somewhere around 60 trips and 1,500 guests, I decided I’d better start running it like one. Today, after more than 72 trips and roughly 1,800 travelers, the greatest reward has nothing to do with business.

It’s the friendships.

I’ve always valued friends. After faith and family, they’re the most important thing in my life. I still have friends from elementary school. We can go years without seeing each other and pick up right where we left off. Those people knew me before I knew what I was going to be. They also remember the bad haircuts and terrible decisions I’d prefer to forget. I assumed friendships that deep were made early in life. I was wrong.

On those first few trips, I noticed how quickly strangers became friends. People who hadn’t known each other a week earlier were leaving with friendships that would last for years. A couple of years ago, I walked into one of my restaurants and spotted eight ladies having lunch together. I recognized every one of them from trips I’d hosted. They lived in different parts of Mississippi and neighboring states, but there they were, laughing, swapping stories, and carrying on like they’d known each other all their lives.

I asked, “How many of y’all knew each other before you started traveling with me?” None. Some were married, some widowed, some divorced. They’d met on trips and had become close enough to get together on their own. I took a great deal of pride in having played a small part in that. Two other ladies met on their first trip with me and have since traveled together more than ten times, sharing rooms and planning adventures. Neither knew the other existed before that first trip. I’ve seen friendships like those form on every tour we’ve hosted. And I’ve made close friends of my own along the way.

For years, I couldn’t understand why it happened so consistently. My wife and I aren’t group-travel people. We like to go where we want, eat where we want, and stop when something interests us. Being herded onto a bus behind a fellow waving a little flag isn’t my idea of a vacation. We don’t do that, by the way. Yet here I am, taking groups around Europe for a living. Our trips have never felt like group travel to me. It took me almost ten years to understand why.

We eat together.

There are 25 of us, and most days we share breakfast, lunch, and dinner. People change seats. They talk about children, grandchildren, childhood, work, marriages, successes, and disappointments. By midweek, people who were strangers at the airport have inside jokes. By the end, they’re making plans to see each other again. Nobody plans any of that. It just happens.

I’ve spent 46 years in the restaurant business, watching birthdays, weddings, reunions, and ordinary Tuesday dinners bring people together. I should have recognized sooner what three shared meals a day for a week or ten days could do. Food has always been my business, but what happens when people sit down and eat together might be why I’ve stayed in it.

My grandfather used to say, “A rich man has his first dollar. A wealthy man has his first friend.” He also said you could judge a man’s wealth by the depth and breadth of his friendships, not his bank account. I heard that growing up. It means more now. Before I left for Europe reece

o, my wife asked what I wanted for my birthday. I told her the same thing I tell her every year: I wanted my friends in one room, sharing a meal. I didn’t need anything else.

Last year, a lady on her third trip pulled me aside. She’d been through a couple of terrible tragedies over the years and told me she’d reached a point when she wasn’t sure she wanted to go on. Then she said, “Robert, I went on that Tuscany trip, and I realized I still had so much to live for.”

I didn’t know what to say.

A few weeks ago in Greece, another lady pulled me aside to thank me. She said, “I feel so alive.” I’ve been in the restaurant business for 46 years, and no one has ever said anything quite like that to me. I’ve received plenty of compliments about food and service over the years, but these two women were talking about something altogether different.

A trip to Italy doesn’t erase grief or fix life’s problems. You still come home to the same world. But a change of scenery, some laughter, good meals, new experiences, and people who enjoy your company can remind you there’s still a lot of living left to do. I can’t take credit for what happened in those ladies’ lives. I’m just grateful I had a small part in it.

I started taking people overseas because I wanted to share the places I’d come to love. What I never expected was how much the people I took would come to mean to me. At 65, I’m still making new friends, and some have become as close as people I’ve known all my life. And after almost half a century in the restaurant business, I find myself doing the same thing I’ve always loved doing—bringing people together around a table.

My grandfather was right. I’ve spent most of my life trying to make a living. Somewhere along the way, I was making a fortune.

Onward.

Italian Cheesecake

If you are a fan of American-style cream cheese cheesecake, this might not be your dessert. Though if you like something lighter and less sweet, this is the dessert for you.

5 each Large egg yolks
1 ¼ cups Sugar
½ tsp Kosher salt
2 cups Ricotta cheese, drained , at room temperature
2 cups Mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange
2 TB Unsalted butter
¾ cup Crumbled biscotti

Preheat oven to 275.

Combine egg yolks, sugar and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on high speed until foamy and the sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes.

Add the ricotta, mascarpone, lemon zest and orange zest and beat on medium speed for 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides and the bottom of the bowl and continue beating on medium speed for an additional 3 minutes. The batter should be smooth and have no lumps.

Using the butter, grease the bottom and the sides of a 9″ spring form pan and sprinkle with the biscotti crumbs. Pour the batter into the spring form pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until set. It will begin to firm as it cooks but should still jiggle slightly when shaken. Allow the cheesecake to set in the refrigerator overnight. Slice with a knife dipped in hot water to create smooth edges along each slice.

Yield: 10-12 servings

(Robert St. John is a chef, restauranteur and published cookbook author who lives in Hattiesburg, Miss.)

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This article is coming from the heart.  This is the week of the Webster Parish Fair.  Most people don’t know that the fair is not only the rides and carnival.  The 4-H and, this year the FFA, kids have worked really hard with their animals all summer and spring to get to this week.  Raising and showing animals is not as easy as it looks.  The animals have to be fed every day and cleaned up around the pens.  By the way, someone had to build the pens, teach the kids, provide the system to keep water clean and fresh, and help purchase the livestock to begin with.

I had the honor and privilege to be a 4-H member.  It was just a part of life in my family.  My dad had been raised in the 4-H program, and I grew up knowing and not questioning the fact that I would be a member at 9 years old.  My great-grandfather was the very first state 4-H director.  I had two agents in my 4-H career.  Mr. Jordon at DeSoto Parish and Mr. Buddy Thomas in Webster Parish.  They were wonderful role models to look up to.  I was also told in front of these men, that I had to behave just like I was supposed to or suffer the consequences both with them and my parents.  I never did test them.  4-H is part of the reason I am in the feed store business at all.  I was hired in 1981 because of my 4-H background.

Back to the 2026 fair, there will be a lot of first time kids.  Our program is trying to come back from a few years of non participants.  We have pigs, sheep, goats, cattle, chickens and rabbits.  All of these entries have been worked with and loved.  Kids get attached to their animals and really do hate to see them go at the sale.  Why don’t our readers try to come and see the shows and see what happens?  The pig show is usually the most fun to watch with a lot of squealing going on, not only the pigs but the kids, too. 

Friday the livestock sale is at 1 p.m.  The kids will get the rewards of all of the hard work that was put in.  You don’t have to buy, but watching is great fun.  I’ll be there watching my 3 grandchildren, Hadley, Harper, and Duke for their first show and sale.  My sister’s grandchild is showing also.  I just hope they enjoy it as much as we did.  It’s a family tradition!

(Mitzi Thomas owns Minden Farm & Garden LLC. Watch for her column on Fridays in Webster Parish Journal. Email Mitzi questions at  mitzithomas40@yahoo.com.)

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With so many changes taking place with tournament organizations all across the country, the day of the co-angler has vanished. The days of getting in the boat with a touring pro and learning how to become a better angler are pretty much over.

Many of you are probably wondering, “What’s a co-angler?” A co-angler is usually someone who is in the early stages of learning how to bass fish or does not have the money or the time to dedicate to fishing against other anglers who want to fish the pro side. The co-angler entry fees are usually half of what the pros pay.

Most co-anglers just wanted to be able to get in the boat with what is known as a boater/pro and just go fishing. It was pretty much a cheap guided fishing trip as the boater/pro had total control over the boat and the trolling motor all day.

The co-angler, fishing from the back deck, was there mainly to monitor the boater/pro and make sure nothing was done during the tournament that might be considered dishonest.

In the Major League Fishing BFL and the Toyota Series format, co-anglers competed against other co-anglers and the pros competed against the other pros. It was basically two separate tournaments with two separate divisions.

It’s a sad state of affairs that MLF (Major League Fishing) has decided to eliminate co-anglers from the format they have stood by for over 30 years. They have totally blown up the BFL circuit, which was designed for the working man, by turning it into another team trail (like we needed another team trail).

They have also just announced the end of co-anglers with the Toyota Series which takes away the ability to monitor the pros who will now be fishing solo, opening more opportunities for cheating. They claim they will have cameras or Go Pros in each boat to help monitor each angler all day, but we’ll see how that works out.

And there’s another factor to consider: the cost. For 2027, MLF has increased the Toyota Series pro entry fee from $1,700 to $2,000 per event. That’s a $300 increase per tournament, adding even more financial pressure for anglers trying to compete at that level.

For me, this co-angler issue hits close to home because I started my tournament fishing career as a co-angler back in 2003, competing on the FLW Tour. I’m certainly not alone. Many of today’s top professional anglers started out as co-anglers, including Bryan Thrift, Andy Montgomery and Randall Tharp.

Over time, they switched over to the pro side as they gained more confidence, experience and desire to compete with the best anglers in America.

I came up through that system, and I know firsthand the value of having the opportunity to compete, sharpen my skills, and prepare for the next step.

Back in the early 2000’s, the old FLW BFL’s and the Toyota Series were great training grounds for developing up-and-coming anglers. Now that’s no longer an option for anglers who are looking to learn and improve their skills before moving up to the pro level.

So, what does this mean for the future of tournament bass fishing? While it’s too early to tell, I think it’s obvious that a valuable pathway into the sport has been eliminated, one that allowed co-anglers to learn and get better, while also being affordable for the “working man.”

Now, a lot of co-anglers will be forced to jump over to the pro side or just find a team circuit to fish with a buddy. Either way, MLF (Major League Fishing) is bringing the co-angler era to an end, and the future of tournament bass fishing looks very different than it did just a few years ago.

That’s a tough pill to swallow for those of us who remember what these opportunities meant — and for the anglers who may never get the same chance we had.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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By Brad Dison

For nearly a century and a half, Quaker Oats has been a breakfast staple. I remember being excited to eat oatmeal because we would eventually work our way down to the prize inside the cylindrical cardboard container, which was usually a plastic cup or tumbler. It was a clever bit of advertising.  In the 1960s, the Quaker Oats Company was looking to expand into the candy market. Quaker habitually spent millions of dollars advertising its products in newspapers, magazines, and television commercials, but the advertising team knew they had to come up with a unique way to showcase their new product line in addition to their normal advertising campaigns. It had to be big, but what? Numerous ideas were discussed and discarded. They eventually settled on an idea they kept coming back to. They decided to fund the production of a film in which their candy would be the focus. The name of the candy line would even be in the title of the film.

But there was one huge problem. The ad men had set into motion an advertising campaign before they had a product. As newspapers announced the upcoming film and candy line, the research and development team struggled to create a candy that they thought had the perfect combination of texture and taste to beat its rivals. Once they settled on the recipe, the company had to build the machinery to produce the candy in large quantities. It was a race to the finish. Quaker wanted its candy to be on grocery store shelves when the film came out to maximize sales, but it was not to be. When the film debuted on June 30, 1971, Quaker had only a fraction of the candy it had hoped to produce, and what little was available went to specialty shops rather than grocery stores.

Quaker spent an estimated $3 million on the film, and it was a moderate box office success. Quaker expected the film to eventually fade into oblivion, but it is now revered as a classic. It has spawned two feature films, an animated version, stage musicals, theatrical adaptations, and theme park rides. It has become a profitable franchise.  However, the candy the film was made to showcase fared far worse. Quaker Oats president Robert D. Stuart, Jr. announced that the “costs of introducing the [candy] line have had an adverse effect on Quaker’s profits.” The candy sold well, but not well enough. In December 1972, Quaker sold the candy line it had spent millions of dollars to create. A series of companies bought and sold the candy line because, like Quaker, they were unable to make it profitable, or at least profitable enough. Last month, the candy line’s current owner, Ferrero, announced that it was reviving the recently acquired candy line in a limited edition. Ferrero announced, “we’re inviting the young at heart to experience the imagination and unexpected delights that have made the brand so beloved, reimagined through a collection of delicious new treats. And who knows? You might be the next Golden Ticket winner.”  The film the Quaker Oats Company funded to advertise its failed candy line, the Willy Wonka candy line, was called Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.

Sources:

1.     The Los Angeles Times, April 18, 1971, p.610.

2.     The Cleveland Press, July 21, 1971, p.61.

3.     The Journal Times (Racine, Wisconsin), December 29, 1972, p.20.

4.     “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,” IMDb.com, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067992/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_willy%20wonka.

5.     “The Wait is Over: A New Chapter of the Wonderful World of Wonka Arrives,” September 22, 2026, Ferrero, https://www.ferrero.com/us/en/news-stories/news/a-new-chapter-of-the-wonderful-world-of-wonka-arrives.

© 2026 Brad Dison. All rights reserved. Remember This? is distributed for licensed publication only.

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Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution met at the Dorcheat Museum on October 19 for our annual DAR Day of Service project. Our chapter packed birthday cake kits to donate to Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry. The kits contained boxed cake mix, icing, Sprite, candles, and other birthday party items.  In September and October we filled out 40 Christmas cards to send to Military Missions in Lexington, Kentucky. The cards will be added to Christmas care packages that are sent to deployed service members each year. Military Missions has website at https://militarymissions.org/. Our hostess and speaker for our meeting was Jessica Gorman, Director of the Dorcheat Museum and one of our chapter board members. She explained how to safely clean cemetery headstones with D/2 Biological Cleaner and a soft brush, and how using other methods such as bleach and power washing ruins headstones.

DAR is a volunteer organization dedicated to education, patriotism, and historic preservation. Any woman age 18 years or older who can prove lineal, bloodline descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence from Great Britain during the Revolutionary War (1775-1783) is eligible to join DAR. For more information, contact us at dorcheatbistineau@yahoo.com

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