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

December 13 – 14

6 until 9 p.m. Walk-through Live Nativity, Parkway Baptist Church, 160616, Hwy. 79, (Homer Road). Free event. Refreshments served.

December 13

Homerun Derby at Sarepta Parks and Recreation.

5 until 9 p.m. Wine Walk downtown Minden

Minden:

5:30 p.m. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

6 until 9 p.m. Holiday Trail of Lights Hayride and Historic Tour

6 p.m. Reindeer Run

December 14

10 a.m. Sarepta Festival Association presents 16th Annual “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” Christmas Festival Live entertainment, Food/Craft vendors, pictures with Santa, pony rides, bounce houses and more. Fireworks at dark.

7 p.m. Piney Woods Jamboree, CAC building, Springhill, special guests: Kody Hughes and Lily Herrick.

Minden:

9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Christmas Brunch at Geaux Fresh Bistro and Bakery

Noon until 3 p.m. pics with Santa and kids activities at Dorcheat Museum

5 p.m. Minden Christmas Festival and Parade

7 p.m. Fireworks

December 15

1 until 6 p.m. Christmas Tour of Homes

December 16

Deadline for applications for Civitan Santa Toy project. Pick up application forms at Minden City Police Department or Community Action Center. Applications will be considered for children through age 13.

5:30 p.m. Glenbrook School, Carols & Coca. Classes will be caroling and spirit teams will be performing. Outside event; dress accordingly.

December 17

1 p.m. The Price is Right, Webster Parish Library, sponsored by Minden Medical Center The Circle

3:30 p.m. Sibley Library Branch. Get into the holiday spirit with Gingerbread House Decorating events at your Webster Parish Libraries!  This fun and festive activity lets kids and their families design and decorate their own gingerbread houses using colorful candies and frosting. Registration required.

December 18

10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Springhill Library Branch. Get into the holiday spirit with  Gingerbread House Decorating events at your Webster Parish Libraries!  This fun and festive activity lets kids and their families design and decorate their own gingerbread houses using colorful candies and frosting. Registration required.

10 a.m. Po-Ke-No at Council of Aging in Haughton. Sponsored by Minden Medical Center The Circle.

December 19

10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Commodity Distribution, First Baptist Church, 209 N. Arkansas St., Springhill, La.

December 22

2 until 4 p.m. Christmas at the Cottage, LaMa Animal Rescue will hold a Christmas Open House at Oak Cottage, 406 3rd St. NW, Springhill, La. Refreshments while strolling through vintage Christmas on display.

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The following are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Traffic Court Friday, December 13:

ALLEN, CHRISTOPHER BERNARD

T112824 AT Arraignment LSP

Speeding 16-24 MPH

ALLEN, WILL JOE

T124524 AT Arraignment LSP

Failure to Use Safety Belt

BANKHEAD, GARRETT L.

T124624 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

*Crash

BANKS-MAXIE, MCKEL

T121724 Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign

T121724A Failure To Dim Lights – Oncoming

BASS, JR, DOVIE

T124724 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BELL, DEMETRESS CARTES

T121824 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*55/35

BOHN, SIMON

T124824 Speeding 11-15 MPH

T124824A No Drivers License On Person

*85/70

BRITTON, LAJOYE PATRICE

T124924 Failure to Use Safety Belt

T124924A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

BROWN, DENISE ANNETTE

T125024 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BUTLER, JAVON

T121924 Speeding 11-15 MPH

*50/35

CARSON, CODY S

T135523 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CARSON, CODY S

T121721 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Tail Lights

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

CARTER, KARRISMA S

T125124 Speeding 11-15 MPH

*65/50

AT Arraignment LSP

COLEMAN, JAMES GERALD

T125224 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

COLEMAN, JARED SETH

T029724 Failure to Use Safety Belt

T029724A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

*OC 9/27

CONNOLLY, JOSEPH FORREST

T122024 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*68/45

COX, JEFFERY DWAIN

T125324 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

DELANEY, SHKAYLA JANEICE

T125424 Speeding 25 & OVER

*80/55

ELLIOTT, KARA DANIELLE

T122124 Following Too Closely

*Crash

FRITH, AMANDA KAY

T122224 Failure to Use Safety Belt

T122224 Operating A Vehicle Without Proof Of Insurance

GEORGE, SHELITHA Y

T125524 Failure to Use Safety Belt

T125524A Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

GIPSON, CHAKIYAH

T119723 Speeding 16-24 MPH

T119723A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT For Further Disposition LSP

GIPSON, DEMETRIC L

T122324 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*70/50

 AT Arraignment WPSD

GRAY, MARKIUS DEYANTAY

T101124 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

AT Arraignment LSP

T101124A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

T101124B Speeding 11-15 MPH

GUTWILLIG, MATTHEW

T122424 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

*Crash Restitution owed to the victim- $1,200.00, plus $180.00 fee = $1,380.00 total

AT Arraignment WPSD

HALL, GRAY DOUGLASS

T125624 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

HARRIS, KELLION

T125724 Failure to Use Safety Belt

T125724A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s  License

AT Arraignment LSP

HARRISON, DEANDRE

T125824 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

HARVILL, LELAND DEWAYNE

T122524 Speeding 11-15 MPH

T122524A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

*50/35

HAWK, CARSON

T125924 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

HAWTHORNE, ANNTRENIKQUE

T122624 Improper Child Restraint

AT Arraignment WPSD

HAWTHORNE, DANGELIO M

T122724 Speeding 16-24 MPH

T122724A Improper Child Restraint

*55/35

AT Arraignment WPSD

HOLLENSHEAD, BRIAN

T126024 Failure to Use Safety Belt

HORN, LARRY

T126124 Failure to Use Safety Belt

T126124A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

HUGLON, TRAVIS SENTELL

T122824 Speeding 25 & OVER

*92/65

JACKSON, CHESTANG

T122924 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*74/55

JACKSON, TYRONE DEWAYNE

T126224 General Speed Law

*Crash

JEFFERY, BRENT ALLAN

T126324 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*86/70

JOHNSON, BLAKE GAGE

T126424 Failure to Use Safety Belt

JONES, KEELY ANNE

T123024 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*53/35

KILDAY, ZACKREY ALLAN

T126524 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Tail Lights

KING, LAQUINTONNE

T126624 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

LENNARD, TAYLOR PAIGE

T123124 Speeding 25 & OVER

*64/35

LILES, LINDSAY A

T077924 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

*Notice sent 11/19 Crash

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

LOFTIN, MARIANN E

T126724 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

LUNA, ALISE JACLYNN

T123224 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*51/35

MARSH, JR, PETER JASON

T075624 Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

*RCBW if present

MARTIN, JR, MICHAEL A

T126824 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*71/55

MASON, DEXTER JERMAINE

T093224 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT FTA Summons LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

MAXIE, MARCUS

T126924 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

MCDANIEL, JAQUOYA KEON

T123324 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*57/35

MCEACHERN, MALLORY ELISE

T123424 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment WPSD

MCLEMORE, CHARLES TYLER

T127024 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

MILLS, XAVIER

T123524 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*58/35

MODISETTE, KEVIN W

T307917 Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign

T307917A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

MOODY, SEDRIC

T127124Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

MOSBY, II, MILTON LEE

T123624 Speeding 11-15 MPH

T123624 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

MUELLENSCHLADER, PAUL

T127224 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

*Crash

NAIL, TERRY DEAN

T124224 Speeding 11-15 MPH

*50/35

NOKES, EVA DANIELLE

T127324 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

NOLASCO, FERNANDO

T127424 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

OGDEN, KENYA

T123724 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*55/35

PERKINS, AUSTIN

T027023 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

T027023A No Insurance

T027023B Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

*BDCC

PETERS, RHONDA

T127524 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

PHENIX, TAMERION LAMAR

T127624 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

PHILLIPS, JHAMON KALIL

T127724 Improper Driving Left Of Center

*Pass 1/10

AT Arraignment LSP

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

PRIESTON, MICHAEL TYRONE

T127924 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

PROCELL, MARY SUE

T121324 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

T121324A Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

T121324B Operating A Vehicle In An Unsafe Condition

*Notice sent 11/14

RATLING, KERIKIMERON J

T100520 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

REDDING, NICHAOLAS GENE

T128024 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

RICKETSON, KATLYNN LEE

T128124 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

ROBERSON, JOHN C

T128324 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

ROBERTS, WILLIAM PAUL

T128224 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

RUSSELL, ROME

T128424 Speeding 25 & OVER

*80/55

RYAN, CHRISTIAN EILEEN

T123824 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*55/35

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

SHADDOCK, JAMES C

T128524 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

SHEPHERD, ASHLEY

T128624 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

SHULL, RACHEL ANN

T128724 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

SIMMONS, JR, VINCENT JAMES

T128824 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

SMITH, DESTINY DENIECE

T128924 Improper Child Restraint

T128924A Improper Child Restraint

AT Arraignment LSP

SMITH, KAYLA RENEE

T129024 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

*Single vehicle crash

SNEED, DAVID LAMAR

T123924 Speeding 11-15 MPH

*70/55

SUMNER, JUSTIN SHAWN

T124024 Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign

*Single vehicle crash

THOMAS, DYLAN ISSAC

T124124 Improper Turn And/Or Failure To Give Required Signal

T124124A Switched License Plates

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment WPSD

THOMAS, RONNIE RAY

T129124 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

*Crash

THOMPSON, SARITA KAY

T129224 Speeding 11-15 MPH

*85/70

WALKER, STARLOT BREYELLE

T129324 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

WALKER, TYREANTE LADUSTIN

T064324 Failure to Use Safety Belt

T064324A Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

T064324B Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT For Further Disposition LSP

WALKER, WILLIAM AARON

T129424 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

WALTON, BRENDA TURNER

T129524 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*93/70

WASHBURN, DUSTIN

T129624 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

AT Arraignment LSP

WEBB, CARTAVIOUS M

T124324 Speeding 11-15 MPH

*51/40

WIGGINS, ROSS HENRY

T129724 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

WILLLIAMS, CHASSITY R

T124424 Speeding 11-15 MPH

*68/55

WOODS, HAYWARD H

T129824 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment WPSD

AT Arraignment LSP

WORTHAM, ASHUNTI D

T129924 Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign

T129924A Switched License Plates

AT Arraignment LSP

YOUNG, LEVERT L

T046118 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

T046118A Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

YOUNG, LEVERT L

T101323 Speeding 11-15 MPH

T101323A Operating a Vehicle While License

Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

Dora Faye Lynch

May 22, 1936 – December 8, 2024

Sibley, La.

Graveside service: 10 a.m. Friday, December 13, 2024, Lane Memorial Cemetery, Sibley, La., under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Judy Mae Hicks

March 23, 1954 – December 7, 2024

Sarepta, La.

No services planned at this time.

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

A lengthy investigation into allegations of a Doyline man’s illegal activities involving juveniles has resulted in his arrest on multiple charges of indecent behavior.

Justin Clay Beale, 34, is currently being held under bonds totaling $250,000 on three counts of indecent behavior with juveniles, according to Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker.

Beale reportedly was arrested earlier this month without incident by deputies enforcing an arrest warrant at his residence on Roy Hale Dr. in Doyline.

Parker said Beale became the target of an investigation which began in April of this year after complaints were received by the Sheriff’s Office concerning his behavior with underage females.

“Detective Karen McDonald began looking into these allegations and it was her excellent work that eventually led to this arrest,” Parker said. “She  developed leads from interviews and collected information from electronic devices that showed a pattern of unacceptable behavior.”

Parker said forensic interviews with the alleged victims conducted at the Gingerbread House supported a quantity of additional evidence and helped seal the case.

“It was a lengthy process, but Detective McDonald never stopped. She did an excellent job of following the trail of evidence,” he said.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A recently-passed ordinance will show adjustments to the salaries of certain top City of Minden officials, but not if the current ones aren’t re-elected.

“According to this ordinance, the annual adjustments will not begin until 2027, as the city charter prohibits raising pay during an elected official’s term,” said Mayor Nick Cox.

The adjustments apply specifically to the Mayor, Police Chief, Ward Marshal and City Judge. These positions will receive cost-of-living increases consistent with those given to city employees, but not until the next term.

“For example, if a 2 percent cost-of-living increase is approved for city employees, these four positions will receive the same adjustment. Conversely, if the city does not provide an annual pay increase to employees, these four positions will not receive one either,” he said.

The Minden City Council was not included in these adjustments.

Minden City Council Members last received a raise January 1, 2023. They were raised from $12,600 to $13,104.

The last raise for the Mayor and Police Chief occurred in 2023 when the former council approved a 4 percent cost-of-living increase for all employees and extended it to these positions, as well.

Currently Mayor of Minden Nick Cox receives an annual salary of $87,360 while Police Chief Jared McIver receives $72,800.

The Ward Marshal and City Judge have multiple sources subsidizing their salaries. From the city coffers only, Ward I Marshal Dan Weaver receives $33,600 and City Judge Sherb Sentell receives $5,999.97.

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By Pat Culverhouse

An early morning foot chase ended in a drug arrest early Tuesday morning after a fleeing suspect led Minden police officers to a local residence where drugs reportedly were found.

Chief of Police Jared McIver said the incident began around 4 a.m. Tuesday when a suspect fled on foot from Sgt. Logan Clingan who had conducted a traffic stop on Loop Rd.

McIver said the suspect was carrying unknown objects when he reportedly ran inside the residence of  33-year-old Dedrick Cortez Erving. After obtaining a search warrant, Sgt. Clingan and Det. Kenneth James found a locked bag hidden in the bathtub/shower area of the residence.

Officers obtained a key to the bag from Erving, who reportedly admitted ownership. Inside, officers found approximately one ounce of methamphetamines. Officers had earlier found Erving in possession of a digital scale containing white residue.

Erving has been charged with possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines) with intent to distribute.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Officers to lead the Webster Parish School Board for 2025 have been picked and while the leadership team hasn’t changed, there will be a switch in the roles.

Johnnye Kennon was elected to serve as the board’s President for the upcoming year while Charles Strong will serve as Vice President. Kennon represents District 10; Strong is the District 3 representative.

“I appreciate the board’s confidence in me to lead you this next year,” Kennon told fellow members following her election. “I look forward to serving with you as your president.”

Strong, who had served two terms as president, said he has been “…blessed to serve several years as your president. I want to say thanks and congratulations to Ms. Kennon. I could not ask for a more supportive partner than she has been, and I will be equally as supportive for her.”

During Monday’s meeting, board members agreed to adopt 24 of 25 proposed school policies, deciding to table a proposed policy on sick leave bank following a lengthy discussion.

With the sick leave bank, teachers could “donate” personal sick days to others who may be in a medical crisis. By doing so, those donating would be losing their days, and that was concerning to some board members.

“Giving away their sick days may leave the donor without any days, and that could be a problem,” board member Jerry Lott said. “And remember, it is irrevocable. Once donated, those days are lost.”

Director of Business and Finance Crevonne Odom said in the Webster Parish school district, no one uses the sick leave bank.

“No one uses it…it has not been actively pursued,” she said. “And this is just a personal observation, but people might often feel coerced to donate to someone else.”

Board members were told the sick leave bank was created by legislative action in 2012.

Policies presented for approval were recommended by Forethought Consulting, Inc., a group Strong described as a “think tank” of educators and others involved in making recommendations for school system policies.

During Monday’s meeting at North Webster High School, board members:

• Recognized Ametrica Jones, teacher at North Webster Upper Elementary, as employee of the month for December.

• Approved school calendar “A” for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years.

• Approved sending School Food Services Coordinator Candiss Shepherd and Andrea Borne to the Nutrition Industry Conference in Phoenix, Arizona Jan. 18-22, 2025. Trip will be funded by School Food Services.

• Approved sending Daniel Lee, principal of Central Elementary, Dean of Students Leslie Alexander and four members of the ILT team to the “Get Your Teach On” conference in Las Vegas, Nevada on Jan. 18-22, 2025. Funding source is Title I.

School board members also approved, in globo, the payment of $190,412.77 from various parish funds for equipment and maintenance projects at several parish schools. Those included:

• Consolidated 3 Maintenance Fund: $5,850 for lawn and field maintenance at Lakeside Jr/Sr High School.

• Cotton Valley Maintenance Fund: $121,710.59 to install security cameras at North Webster Elementary School.

• Doyline Maintenance Fund: $13,200 includes $8,000 to provide ongoing treatment of baseball and softball fields at Doyline High School and $5,200 to overseen baseball and softball fields at Doyline High.

• District 6 One-half cent Sales Tax Fund: $48,252.18. Total includes $10,935.75 to install LED lighting at Minden High School gym; $12.304 to purchase Kubota RTV520 for J.L. Jones Elementary; $12,304 to purchase Kubota RTV520 for J.A. Phillips Elementary; $2,765 to refinish gymnasium floor at Minden High.

• Springhill Maintenance Fund: $1,400 includes $1,000 for ceiling repairs at North Webster High School and $400 for desk and filing cabinet at Browning Elementary School.

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 Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 56. West wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 33. Calm wind.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 57. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the morning.

Thursday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 43.

Friday

A 30 percent chance of showers after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60.

Friday Night

Showers likely, mainly after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Saturday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before noon, then a chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 64. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

* Information provided by the National Weather Service

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By Paige Gurgainers

October was a busy month for the parish with event after event celebrating the fall season- everything from the Witches Ride of Minden, the Webster Parish Libraries and Minden Recreation Center’s Trunk or Treats and numerous fall festivals. Another event that brought in visitors was the Mid-City Mayor’s conference that was hosted by the City of Minden this year.  

All this traffic means an uptick in local sales tax collections whether it’s locals getting out and about spending money or out of towners stopping in and enjoying an overnight stay and the reports for October reflect just that.  

Every taxing body in the parish experienced an increase apart from the Town of Sarepta and Cullen, Village of Doyline and the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission (WPCVC). 

The City of Springhill saw an increase of 1.50 percent, with $267,645 collected compared to October of last year, with $263,695 collected.  

The City of Minden experienced an even bigger surge with a 4.92 percent increase with $712,982 collected in comparison to the $679,568 collected in the same month for 2023.  

“After reviewing the sales tax collection report for October, it’s clear that both the Witches Ride and the Mid-City Mayor’s Conference had a positive economic impact on Minden during their respective events,” said WPCVC Director of Community Affairs Johnnye Kennon. “We are always thrilled when organizations choose Minden to host events that boost tourism. Events like these not only have a direct economic impact but also contribute indirectly to our local economy.” 

The total increase in sales tax collections for the parish went up 5.78 percent with $3,446,337 collected from all taxing bodies during the month of October.  

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Notice is hereby given that the City of Minden will receive sealed bids as follows:

Monday, December 23, 2024 at 2 p.m.

Bids will be accepted until the dates and times specified and will be publicly opened and read aloud at City of Minden City Hall Conference Room, 520 Broadway, Minden, Louisiana 71055. Please find bid-related documents and place electronic bids at http://www.BidExpress.com.

Bids received after the date and times of opening will not be considered. The City of Minden reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Please See Attached/Download below.

/s/ Melaney Langford

City Clerk

/s/ Nick Cox

Mayor of Minden

11/27, 12/04/, 12/11

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A couple of Shreveport orthopedic surgeons who’ve seen their share of breaks deserve one.

Careers of 40-plus years in their rearview mirrors, Dr. Eddie Anglin and Dr. Craig Springmeyer, a one-two punch for Highland Clinic/Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and a pair of heroes for ligaments, tendons, bones, and nerves throughout the area, are hanging up their stethoscopes and scalpels.

Major Stud Alert here, Retirement Division. Job well done.

If our area high schools and colleges gave letters to team physicians, each of these guys would need an extra closet, just for letter jackets.

You’ll hear more about this pair in the days to come, but just know that as players “back in the day,” they were very good. As doctors, they might have been even better.

Lucky enough to know them, I can tell you that whether you wanted to get back on the field or court or if you just wanted to be able to play pain free with your grandchildren, get through a golf ball, cast a fishing rod, or mow your grass, this was a great pair to visit. They’ve helped famous athletes and renowned entertainers (same thing, really), along with the rest of us who just wanted to move around with less pain after we’d pulled this or fractured that.

Athletically, they came by it honest.

Anglin is part of Haynesville High’s rich tradition; he was a running back on back-to-back state champions in 1970 and 1971. Lettered at Tech as a defensive end in 1973-75. Nice work if you can earn it.

Springmeyer starred for an infant Captain Shreve High before earning letters in each of the four years of the Golden Era of Tech Football, 1971-74. Noseguard. He operated in tight spots, something both he and his friend Anglin have managed to do well for four decades as they’ve treated this meniscus and reconstructed that anterior cruciate ligament.

But they were smart, too. And passionate about their calling. It’s a doctoring thing.

Ask any of a thousand bum wrists, sore backs, broken collarbones or screwed-up elbows that Anglin and Springmeyer have ambled onto the football fields across Louisiana, south Arkansas and east Texas on any given autumn Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night since the early 1980s, and they’ll take a moment, gather themselves, maybe wipe a tear or two and say, “Those guys … they’re the best.”

Bona fide.

Plaques can’t express everything in our hearts, but they’re a start, and often they’re the best we can do to express how much someone’s work has meant to us. It’s something to hang on the wall to illustrate a gratitude that can’t be framed.

And so it was, on a recent prep football Friday before an Evangel football game, that these two were honored. If you’ll “direct your attention to midfield,” we’ll first listen to the PA announcer and …

“Orthopedic specialists Dr. Craig Springmeyer and Dr. Eddie Anglin have spent the past four decades patching up athletes, weekend warriors, and the general population in our area with great skill and compassion. The Evangel family wants to personally thank both of these men for taking care of them and the rest of the Ark-La-Tex. We honor them tonight as they retire from their practices.”

And then, The Reading of the Plaques:

“In recognition of a career defined by dedication and compassion, we honor you for the countless lives you have touched with your hand and with your heart. With exceptional expertise and unwavering support, you have been a servant leader for us all. With our deepest gratitude, we thank you for your many years of service on the field. Your legacy as a trusted physician and advocate will continue to inspire and uplift generations for years to come.”

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter DAR met on November 2 at the Webster Parish Library. Hostesses for this month’s meeting were Cindy Madden, Caldwell Colvin, and Nancy Procell. Six new members were introduced to our chapter.

Julia Allen: her patriot ancestor is Corporal John Gill, who was born in 1754 in Craven Co, South Carolina. He served in the South Carolina Militia in Col. William Thompson’s 3rd Regiment in 1778. He died in 1828 in Lawrence Co, Mississippi.

Samantha Lewis and her daughter Brianna Schumacher: their patriot ancestor is Capt. John Willey, who was born on Oct 11, 1732 in Hartford Co, Connecticut. During the Revolution, he served as a Captain in Col. Joseph Spencer’s Regiment during the Lexington Alarm. The Lexington Alarm was an urgent call to arms that spread throughout the colonies on April 19, 1775, signaling the start of the Revolutionary War.

Shannon McFate: her patriot ancestor is Aaron Vincent, who was born around 1747 in North Carolina. During the Revolution, he served as a Constable and Justice of the Peace in Johnston County, North Carolina, and he registered for military service in 1781. He died in Johnston County in 1791.

Susie Reynolds: her patriot ancestor is Jeremiah York, who was born June 22, 1762 in Virginia. In his Revolutionary War pension application, he stated that he joined the army in 1780 and was stationed at Fort Pitt, which is now Pittsburgh. He served as a Private in Capt. Uriah Springer’s 8th Regiment of the Continental Line. Jeremiah died on September 10, 1835 in Perry County, Indiana.

Tammy Trainor: her patriot ancestor is Abraham Southard, who was born on August 5, 1758 in New Jersey. He served during the Revolution as a Private in Captain Mott’s 3rd Battalion in the Continental Line.  Captain Mott’s battalion was involved in various actions, including harassing British forces during British foraging expeditions in New Jersey. Abraham died at the age of 96 in Ohio.

The new members were presented by Chapter Registrar and Historian Donna Sutton, and were given the Oath of Membership by Chapter Chaplain Kathy Johnson. Each new member was presented with a gift bag. After the ceremony, Chapter Regent Cindy Madden gave a presentation to show new members how to access and use the DAR national website. Because DAR is a service organization, it is important for members to log their monthly volunteer service hours. The website also has a genealogy section with a wealth of records and information including genealogy instructional videos called Genie Clips, copies of members’ Bible records, transcribed Revolutionary War records, and proven lineages to Revolutionary War patriots.

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In 1917, the world was in the midst of World War I.  Corporal J. Robert Conroy was among the soldiers of the 102nd infantry, 26th division, known as the “Yankee Division,” camped at Yale Field in New Haven, Connecticut.  While enjoying his rations one day, he noticed that a homeless boy had wandered into camp.  Other soldiers turned to look then returned to their duty.  Corporal Conroy shared his meager rations and their friendship began.  Even though one was a soldier and the other was not, they were almost inseparable.  Pretty soon, most of the soldiers of the 102nd infantry had befriended him.  Then, Corporal Conroy learned that his division would be shipping out soon to France.  Corporal Conroy was concerned about the wellbeing of his new friend and led a small conspiracy which was so secretive that most of the details of it remain a mystery.  What we know for certain is that when the USS Minnesota left for France, Corporal Conroy’s friend was a stowaway.

For some time, the conspirators kept the stowaway a secret.  Each saved small portions from their meals to give the stowaway, but the top brass learned about the scheme.  The conspirators and the stowaway could have been sent to the brig to await punishment, but the United States needed all the soldiers it could get.  They fitted the stowaway with a uniform and other necessary accoutrements, and the stowaway became a private.  As soon as they arrived in France, the 102nd infantry left for the front.  No one knew what to expect from the private.  Unlike all of the other soldiers around him, the private had no training.  Would he fight or run?  The soldiers of the 102nd infantry taught him what little they could along the way.  By the time they got to the trenches, the private had befriended just about every soldier in the whole division.  Remember, just a few weeks earlier, he was homeless and had to beg for food. 

Like the other soldiers of the 102nd infantry, the private was stunned by the explosions and endless gunfire, but he proved to be a brave soldier during each fight.  On April 20, 1918, the 102nd infantry fought the Germans at the town of Seicheprey, France.  During the battle, the Germans captured the town, but the 102nd infantry counter-attacked that night.  The Germans were forced to retreat, but at a terrible price.  During the counterattack, many soldiers were wounded or killed.  Among the wounded was the private who was struck in the chest by a piece of shrapnel from an enemy hand grenade.  Everyone, including the Army surgeons, thought the wound was fatal.  Morale in the 102nd infantry hit rock bottom.  Six weeks later, their morale rebounded when the private returned to his outfit.  By the time the war ended, the private had served in 17 battles and had earned many medals for bravery including the Victory Medal with cross bars indicating his participation in major engagements and the Silver Victory Button for being wounded.  Back home, the private became a celebrity.  He was featured in parades across the country.  He met with Presidents Woodrow Wilson, Calvin Coolidge, and Warren G. Harding.  In July 1921, General John J. Pershing, commander-in-chief of the American forces in Europe during the war, awarded the private with a solid gold medal with his name engraved on it.  The once homeless boy who unintentionally became a private and the “Hero of the Yankee Division,” was a bull terrier, a dog named “Stubby.”

Sources:

1.     The Indianapolis News, July 9, 1921, p.5.

2.     The World News (Roanoke, Virginia), July 12, 1921, p.4.

3.     The Chattanooga News, October 20, 1923, p.14.

4.     The Commercial Appeal (Memphis, Tennessee), March 28, 1926, p.8. 

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My success today is rooted in the failures of my past.

Failure can be a necessary ingredient for success, and the earlier it happens, the better. I learned this the hard way, stumbling more times than I care to count. But each failure, no matter how brutal, was a steppingstone.

Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.

Here’s the raw truth. In my late teens, I was a mess. Addiction had a chokehold on my life, and I was on a runaway luge to hell. Fired from multiple jobs because I couldn’t show up on time, I had tons of desire but zero discipline and self-control. My brother fired me from his landscaping business, twice. He was right to do so; I was unreliable, aimless, and reckless.

By 21, I had resigned myself to a bleak future. I didn’t think I’d live to see 30. Though, the hard truth is— the way I was living— I probably wouldn’t have made it to 25. Thankfully, I got clean and sober at 21, but sobriety isn’t a cure-all. It’s just the beginning.

Even after turning my life around, I made countless mistakes. Business failures, financial crises, near bankruptcies—moments so crushing I had to ask others for help, sometimes on the verge of collapse. Yet, with every setback, I learned and I kept moving forward.

When I first opened restaurants, I made every rookie mistake in the book. Leadership was foreign to me, and I was reactive instead of proactive. From the outside, things looked successful. But the reality? There was nothing left on the bottom line at the end of the month. A business isn’t a success because of positive outward appearances. True success lies in doing the right things, fostering a strong culture, and turning a profit. That takes time, focus, and— in my case— occasional failures.

For decades, my leadership was lacking. I wasn’t leading my team as I should have been. COVID exposed cracks in our culture that had been hidden for years. Pre-COVID, we had the luxury of always hiring A+ candidates, thanks to being in a town with two universities. Managing top-tier talent is easy and can hide a lot of warts. But during the post-COVID labor shortage, we were doing all we could do to just bring in warm bodies. Leading a team like that takes a completely different skill set.

I wasn’t ready for it. Our leadership team wasn’t ready for it. The transition was rough. Though two years ago, something clicked. I became a stronger leader. I zeroed in on my leadership team, and they began leading their team members. Slowly but surely, we started firing on all cylinders, and we regained our culture.

Today, our company is in its best shape, ever. After 37 years as a restaurant owner that’s a rare feat. It didn’t come from luck—it came from hard lessons learned during those years in the valley, and a dedicated team with purpose and a commitment to our core values and mission.

Here’s the truth: for a long time, I was more focused on my competition than my own business. In the early 2000s, when other bars and restaurants started opening in Hattiesburg, I overreacted. I spent countless Friday and Saturday nights driving around town, checking other people’s parking lots. When I saw more cars at their establishments, I felt dismayed, even defeated.

I made the same mistake when chain restaurants started invading our town in the 1990s. I reconfigured our menus and concepts to compete with them, but it didn’t feel authentic. Eventually, I realized the best path forward was to stop reacting and focus on who we are and what we do best. Once we doubled down on our core values—hospitality, quality, consistency, cleanliness, and community—business bloomed.

But here’s what I didn’t understand until recently: leadership is about focus. When I finally stopped worrying about everyone else’s parking lots and started working on my own restaurants, everything changed. Sales soared, and our culture came roaring back.

The longer I stay in business, the clearer it becomes: all business problems are people problems. Success isn’t about chasing trends or keeping up with competitors. It’s about having the right people in the right places, living your mission, sticking to your foundational principles, and being true to your core values and concept.

In this industry, persistence is key. Over the years, I’ve had to re-concept restaurants multiple times. Some probably see that as failure; I see it as growth. Change isn’t failure—it’s evolution. Every pivot has made us stronger.

Persistence pays.

Here’s a true story. In the 1990s we spent a decade as the number one on-premise retailer (non-casino) of liquor and wine in Mississippi. For years, our bar business was booming, partly because there was relatively no competition in town. It’s easy to thrive when you’re the only bull in the pen. When competitors entered the market, I panicked. I overreacted instead of leading, and it cost us.

Now, after decades of lessons, I understand what true success looks like. It’s not about being the biggest or the flashiest. It’s about staying focused on your mission, taking care of your team, committing to excellence every single day, and putting money on the bottom line.

I’ve been in the restaurant industry for 43 years. I’ve seen early peaks, long valleys, and everything in between. At 63, I think I’ve finally hit my stride as a leader. And you know what? I wouldn’t have it any other way. The lessons I’ve learned—the failures I’ve endured—are what made this possible. Today we are strong, healthy, thriving, and better than ever.

To anyone reading this, especially those in the throes of failure: don’t give up. Failure isn’t the end; it’s the beginning. The kid who cries after losing the big game isn’t defeated—he or she is learning the resilience it takes to win. That kid cares. That kid will wind up a winner in life.

I’ve stopped driving around town on Friday nights, worrying about others’ parking lots. I stay in ours, which, thanks to a dedicated team and plenty of determination, is now full most nights. Failure may write the first chapter of success, but the story only unfolds when you have the resolve to keep turning the pages.

Success, as I’ve come to understand it, is simply the sum of failures turned into lessons. My journey to success— to the degree that I’ve had any success— has been marked by stumbles, setbacks, and a relentless will to keep moving forward. I’ve never really thought of myself as a winner. I’m more of a loser who refuses to quit. I owe any success I’ve found to persistence, and it’s the reason I’ll keep striving.

Onward.

Cajun Enchiladas

1/2 cup butter, divided

1/2 cup yellow onion, small dice

1/2 cup canned jalapeños, drained and chopped fine

1/3 cup green bell pepper, small dice

1 TBL Creole Seasoning, divided

1 1/2 cup whipping cream

1/2 cup sour cream

4 cups Monterey jack cheese, shredded and divided

1/2 pound fresh shrimp, 61/70 count

1/2 pound lump crab meat

1/2 pound peel crawfish tails

1/3 cup green onions, sliced thinly

8 – 8inch flour tortillas

Preheat oven to 325

In a medium sauce pot, melt half of the butter over medium-high heat. Cook the onions, jalapeños, bell pepper and half of the Creole Seasoning for 3-4 minutes, stirring often to prevent the vegetables from browning. Add the whipping cream and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Add in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheese and stir with a wire whisk until the mixture is smooth. Remove from the heat and pour the mixture into a large mixing bowl. Set aside.

Melt the remaining butter in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the uncooked shrimp with the remaining Creole seasoning and sauté the seasoned shrimp for 3-5 minutes. Add in the crawfish tails, crab and green onions and cook for 2 minutes longer.

Fold the cooked seafood into the sour cream mixture.

Use a large spoon and place approximately 1/3 cup of the mixture into the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortillas and place them side by side in an 8×10 baking dish.

Spoon the remaining mixture over the top of the filled tortillas. Cover the baking dish with a piece of parchment paper, followed by aluminum foil. Use a small knife and make 4-5 small slits in the foil covering.

Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and parchment paper and sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded cheese. Bake for 10-12 more minutes. 

Allow the enchiladas to rest for 15 minutes before serving. 

Yield:

6-8 servings

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

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Zackary Logan Kade Doster, 40, 3rd St. SE, Springhill: arrested Dec. 7 by WPSO on outstanding warrants for failure to appear, fugitive from Springhill PD. Total bond set $151,000.

Robert L. Sneed, 42, Taylor: arrested Dec. 5 by Probation and Parole on two warrants for assault by drive-by shooting, one warrant possession of a firearm/carrying concealed weapon by convicted felon. Total bond set $130,000.

Charles Boyette, 42, 200 block Wilton Rd., Sarepta: arrested Dec. 5 by Springhill PD on warrant for possession of CDS Sch.II (methamphetamine). Bond set $3,500.

Nicholas R. Taylor, 27, Sarepta: arrested Dec. 6 by WPSO on outstanding warrant.

Brittany Lovitt Edgett, 39, 100 block Hickory St., Springhill: arrested Dec. 6 by Probation and Parole for parole violation.

Theresa Lynn Muse, 35, 800 block Superior Dr., Magnolia, AR: arrested Dec. 8 by MPD for cruelty to juveniles.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Nothing is more exciting than the day a bass fisherman buys his first bass boat! For me, that was 1990 when I bought a new Pro Gator from Cary’s, a dealer in Ville Platte, Louisiana. It was an 18-foot boat with a 150 Yamaha and was loaded with the best electronics money could buy, for a boat at that time. But if you own a bass boat, then you know first-hand all the trials and tribulations that come with being a boat owner.

At the time of my purchase, I was working for an apparel company by the name of Holloway Sportswear. They were an outerwear/jacket manufacturer based out of Ohio. They had 6 cutting and sewing factories in Louisiana, one of which was in Ville Platte where I was plant manager at the time of my boat purchase. 

I was one happy camper the day I picked up my new Pro Gator bass boat! It had all the bells and whistles that I could want. Being the plant manager at this facility meant I had to spend a couple of nights a week in the apartment located inside the Holloway factory.  

 

But just outside of Ville Platte was Chicot Lake, loaded with good quality bass that anglers crave. So, one day after work and with plenty of daylight left, I decided to take my new boat to Chicot Lake and give it a good test run. 

I was so impressed with this boat and how it handled. It was great  for bass fishing. After catching a few bass, I decided to head back to the boat ramp about an hour after dark. 

Once I returned to the dock at the ramp, I tied off my boat and went to back my truck in the water so I could load my boat. Funny thing about owning a boat… sometimes things happen that defy explanation. 

Well after backing my boat trailer down the ramp, I put the truck in park and walked back down the dock to get the boat, only the boat was not there! Looking around I noticed the boat had floated away from the dock about fifty yards. All I could see were the running lights in the pitch-black darkness! Yet there it was floating all alone like a lost puppy waiting for me to save the day and bring it back.  

Now, one thing that I remembered as I left the dock to go fishing earlier that afternoon was that there were several alligators sunning on the shore of the bayou that my boat was now floating in. So, after a lot of thought and consideration as to what my options were, I decided the only way to get the boat back was to swim to it.  

So, I took off my shirt and shoes and laid my wallet on the dock. I got a good running start and sprinted down the dock and dove into the lake headfirst… (which looking back was probably not a very good idea as I could have landed on a stump and suffered a catastrophic injury; but the good Lord above was watching out for me.) 

Those of you old enough might remember the Olympic gold medal swimmer, Mark Spitz. He won a record seven gold medals in the 1972 Olympics. But that night, not even Mark Spitz could have out swum me as I had visions of alligators chasing me! Nor has anyone ever leaped into a boat quicker than I did that night. 

So, what’s the lesson I learned that night? Always make sure you tie a good knot anytime you’re leaving your boat by the dock. There’s nothing like owning your first bass boat even when it means you have to risk your life swimming with gators! 

Till next time, good luck, good fishing, and make sure to introduce a kid to the great outdoors. Kids that hunt and fish, don’t deal and steal.  

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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

December 11

1 p.m. BINGO at Council on Aging in Minden. Sponsored by Minden Medical Center The Circle.

3:30 p.m. Heflin Library Branch. Get into the holiday spirit with Gingerbread House Decorating events at your Webster Parish Libraries!  This fun and festive activity lets kids and their families design and decorate their own gingerbread houses using colorful candies and frosting. Registration required.

December 12 – 14

6 until 9 p.m. Walk-through Live Nativity, Parkway Baptist Church, 160616, Hwy. 79, (Homer Road). Free event. Refreshments served.

December 13

Homerun Derby at Sarepta Parks and Recreation.

5 until 9 p.m. Wine Walk downtown Minden

Minden:

5:30 p.m. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

6 until 9 p.m. Holiday Trail of Lights Hayride and Historic Tour

6 p.m. Reindeer Run

December 14

10 a.m. Sarepta Festival Association presents 16th Annual “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” Christmas Festival Live entertainment, Food/Craft vendors, pictures with Santa, pony rides, bounce houses and more. Fireworks at dark.

7 p.m. Piney Woods Jamboree, CAC building, Springhill, special guests: Kody Hughes and Lily Herrick.

Minden:

9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Christmas Brunch at Geaux Fresh Bistro and Bakery

Noon until 3 p.m. pics with Santa and kids activities at Dorcheat Museum

5 p.m. Minden Christmas Festival and Parade

7 p.m. Fireworks

December 15

1 until 6 p.m. Christmas Tour of Homes

December 16

Deadline for applications for Civitan Santa Toy project. Pick up application forms at Minden City Police Department or Community Action Center. Applications will be considered for children through age 13.

5:30 p.m. Glenbrook School, Carols & Coca. Classes will be caroling and spirit teams will be performing. Outside event; dress accordingly.

December 17

1 p.m. The Price is Right, Webster Parish Library, sponsored by Minden Medical Center The Circle

3:30 p.m. Sibley Library Branch. Get into the holiday spirit with Gingerbread House Decorating events at your Webster Parish Libraries!  This fun and festive activity lets kids and their families design and decorate their own gingerbread houses using colorful candies and frosting. Registration required.

December 18

10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Springhill Library Branch. Get into the holiday spirit with  Gingerbread House Decorating events at your Webster Parish Libraries!  This fun and festive activity lets kids and their families design and decorate their own gingerbread houses using colorful candies and frosting. Registration required.

10 a.m. Po-Ke-No at Council of Aging in Haughton. Sponsored by Minden Medical Center The Circle.

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A walk-through Live Nativity in downtown Minden will be held Saturday, December 21, and what better way to feel the spirit of Christmas but with people from around the local community joining in song to worship the coming of the newborn King. Dr. Dan Gibbs is seeking persons to make up a very special Living Nativity Community Choir. Please see the above flyer for information.

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Dora Faye Lynch

May 22, 1936 – December 8, 2024

Sibley, La.

Graveside service: 10 a.m. Friday, December 13, 2024, Lane Memorial Cemetery, Sibley, La., under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

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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Glenbrook School and Head Football Coach Reagan Smith have announced a joint decision to transition leadership of the school’s football program. This decision reflects a shared vision for growth, as the program builds on the strong foundation established during Coach Smith’s tenure while he explores new professional opportunities to further his career.

Since joining Glenbrook in 2023, Coach Smith has been an inspiring force behind the school’s athletic successes. Under his stewardship, the football program achieved two winning seasons, two playoff appearances, and made significant improvements to the school’s strength and conditioning program. Coach Smith has also been a dedicated mentor to Glenbrook’s student-athletes, fostering their growth both on and off the field.

“Coaching at Glenbrook has been a rewarding experience,” said Coach Smith. “We have grown together through this process. While this decision was difficult, I am confident this transition is the right step for both the team and for me as I pursue exciting new opportunities. I will always treasure the relationships and memories I’ve made here.”

Glenbrook’s administration expressed gratitude for Coach Smith’s contributions to the school. “We are thankful for Coach Smith’s commitment to our students and our athletic program,” said Glenbrook Head of School Darden Gladney. “His vision, dedication, and passion have elevated our football program. His contributions will have a lasting influence, and we are grateful for his service. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”

The search for a new head coach will begin immediately, with the school prioritizing a seamless transition for the program. Coach Smith plans to remain on staff as head powerlifting coach and as a teacher through the end of the school year.

Athletic Director James Thurman said that applications will begin being accepted this week and anyone interested in applying should reach out to him at jthurman@glenbrookschool.com.  

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By Pat Culverhouse

A Minden man who was listed as one of Minden Police Department’s most wanted is in custody and now facing additional charges following his arrest on a city street.

Antonio Holiday, a 53-year-old resident of the 800 block of Durwood Dr., was being arrested on warrants for access device fraud and simple burglary when Sgt. Logan Clingan made discoveries which led to additional charges.

Minden Chief of Police Jared McIver said Sgt. Clingan and Officer Jessica Thompson stopped Holiday on Cherry St. shortly before 9 p.m. to enforce the active warrants Thursday. While conducting a frisk, the officers observed Holiday drop two crystal-like objects, which later tested positive as methamphetamines, on the ground.

McIver said the suspect also reportedly reached into his jacket pocket and tossed a silver wrench socket onto the ground. Officers reportedly discovered a copper metal with black residue inside the socket.

Holiday’s additional charges include possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamine), obstruction of justice and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Holiday made the MPD’s Most Wanted list for burglarizing a vehicle, stealing a bank card and using that bank card at a local ATM to allegedly steal approximately $1,100 from the victim’s account. Holiday reportedly was identified via ATM surveillance video.

He is being held on $40,000 bond for charges listed in the warrants, while bond on additional charges has not been set.

Lt. Jason Smith, commander of the MPD Criminal Investigation Division, said the public’s help is a key element in helping investigators locate criminals. Smith began publishing the Most Wanted list in the Webster Parish Journal in late August and he said the success rate is very good.

“We have apprehended 90 percent of our most wanted since we began posting photos and information on these individuals,” Smith said. “We appreciate the help we’re receiving from the public. Some of the information which has led to closing a case has even come from out-of-state.”

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

With 7.7 percent unofficial voter turnout, slightly more than 1,800 voters said yes to a tax renewal and a new tax millage in order to keep things running smoothly in Webster Parish.

The new 1.75 mills property tax will allow the Webster Parish Council on Aging to continue offering services to seniors in the parish.

COA Executive Director Johnny Johnson said he is “ecstatic” the new millage passed.

“I am thrilled to death,” he added.

Johnson said from 2020 until 2024, the state raised the COA’s budget from $600,000 a year to around $800,000.

“It was because of COVID, and the price of groceries and fuel – everything rose,” he said.

Beginning in 2025, COA’s budget will be cut to $660,000, but the cost of these items will likely remain high.

Johnson said money from the new millage will not be realized until the end of December 2025, when it will begin bringing in more than $550,000 per year in taxes.

“We will probably get a line of credit to get us through to the end of 2025, but that won’t be a problem,” Johnson said. “After that, we will have the money to stay in business and provide people with all the programs they need and deserve.”

Voters also passed renewal of a 2.78 mills tax for the upkeep and maintenance of the Webster Parish Courthouse, the courthouse annex, Webster Parish Health Unit and LSU Agricultural Building.

Both millages will be up for renewal in 10 years.

Also in Webster Parish, the mayor of Cullen is Terry “Bippy” Hoof with 54 percent of the vote over Doris L. White.

All four Constitutional Amendments passed easily in Webster as well as around the state with 54 to 63 percent of the vote.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Pulling off a highway to take a nap has a Minden man looking at other sleeping arrangements provided by the parish, and facing a variety of drug charges.

Kedron S. Booker, a resident of the 600 block of Fourth St., has been booked on charges of possession of CDS Sch. I (marijuana), possession of CDS Sch. I (synthetic marijuana), possession of CDS Sch. I (Ecstasy) and violation of the open container ordinance, Chief of Police Jared McIver said.

Booker reportedly is now bunking at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center following his arrest Friday afternoon. Bond has not been set.

McIver said Sgt. Benjamin Sparks responded to a call from a motorist driving on LA Hwy. 531 who reported an individual in the parking lot of a church and passed out behind the wheel of his vehicle.

When the officer made contact with the suspect, he noticed an open whiskey “shooter” bottle and an “…overwhelming odor of natural marijuana emitting from the vehicle,” McIver said.

During a probable cause search of the vehicle, Sgt. Sparks, along with Lt. Chris Hammontree and Officer Jordon Greer, reportedly found 13 grams of natural marijuana, 1.5 grams of synthetic marijuana and six Ecstasy tablets.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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