Sibley Town Council wraps up the 2024 year

By Shannon Wright

In true December fashion, the Sibley Town Council wrapped up their final regular meeting of the year on Monday, December 9, in less than 15 minutes.

This being the final meeting before the newly-elected officials take office, Mayor Robert Smart recognized Helen Chanler and Alan Myers, saying “you are always welcome and we appreciate your service.”

A member of the Chanler family has served on the Sibley Town Council for many years. Chanler is proud that her daughter-in-law, Pam Chanler, will be carrying on the tradition.

“It’s an honor to be continuing the legacy of the Chanler family by serving my community,” Pam Chanler said in a phone interview.

Myers, Chief of the Sibley Volunteer Fire Department, has proudly served on the town council since 2013. His years of dedication and service as Alderman, and his continued service through the fire department, are greatly appreciated.

Before adjourning, the mayor reminded the seniors in attendance about the senior breakfast that will be held Friday, December 13, at 8:30 a.m. at the Sibley Civic Center. The breakfast is sponsored by the Mayor, Board of Aldermen and Sibley Volunteer Fire Department. All senior citizens of the town of Sibley are welcome.

The town council is looking forward to the new year.

 All the items on the agenda passed unanimously, which included:  

Ordinance No. 160 – An ordinance establishing a policy and procedure manual for water and wastewater services and prescribing penalties for the violation thereof, for the Town of Sibley, Louisiana, repealing all or parts of ordinances in conflict and providing in connection therewith.


City of Minden Boil Advisory

Wednesday, December 11, The City of Minden issued a boil advisory for customers on the 300 and 600 blocks of West Street and all addresses on Railroad Street. Minden Mayor Nick Cox suggested but would not go on the record saying it was possible the Grinch is responsible for the broken water main, however, the advisory is real and residents will be notified as soon as it has been lifted.


Broken Bean Banquet well attended

The Broken Bean’s Christmas fundraising banquet last week was successful, according to manager Teri Hemphill.

“We raised a significant amount of money but were short of the goal of $50,000,” Teri said. “But we are happy with what we raised.”

Broken Bean is a coffee/sandwich shop on McDonald Street in Minden and is run by Hemphill  and those involved with Louisiana Adult & Teen Challenge.

“This money helps keep our doors open,” Teri continued. “We have a general operating expense of more than 400,000. So this money goes toward our general expenses.”

If anyone would like to make a donation they can swing by The Broken Bean anytime, she said.

The Broken Bean’s motto is: Only When Something is Broken Does it Reveal its True Aroma.


Forecast: Chances of rain Saturday

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 61. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the morning.

Thursday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 43. Southeast wind around 5 mph.

Friday

Cloudy, with a high near 61. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Friday Night

Showers likely, mainly after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 54. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Saturday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before noon, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 66. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Saturday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 49.

* Information provided by the National Weather Service.


Advent events continue

Advent is here, leading us into Christmas. Many churches and other religious organizations will observe this holy season and may want to extend invitations for the community to join them. If you have an event of this nature, please send the date, time and description to wpjnewsla@gmail.com and we will be happy to print it.

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 14

5:30 p.m. Meet & Greet Advent Event in Parish Hall of St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1107 Broadway, Minden. Light musical entertainment; potluck with Christmas Party theme.

December 15

10:55 a.m. Love is Born, Springhill Methodist Church Chancel Choir, Lindy Dyson, Director, 104 4th Street Northwest, Springhill.

6 p.m. Once Upon a Night Christmas Cantata, First Methodist Church Chancel Choir with Orchestra. Dr. Dan Gibbs, Director. Sanctuary, 903 Broadway, Minden, La.

December 21

5:30 until 9 p.m. Downtown Live Nativity. Beginning at St. John’s Episcopal Church.

December 24

5:30 p.m. Candlelight Service, Springhill Methodist Church, 104 4th Street Northwest, Springhill.


50-Year tradition continues with Doyline Christmas Cantata

Photo by Shannon Wright (2023 Cantata)

 By Shannon Wright

 The Doyline United Methodist Church sits in the heart of uptown Doyline and is often the heart of the village, especially during Christmas. Each year they host their Christmas Cantata, and everyone is welcome.

That phrase comes to life when you enter through the double doors of this tiny white church. You will feel the love exuding from the members as they openly welcome each guest who enters, and you will feel the presence of God as you find your seat in one of the old wooden pews with the beautiful white cross beaming on the back wall.

This year is extra special because it will be their 50th Annual Christmas Cantata.

This tradition began back in December of 1974. It was led by Mrs. Mary Francis who had been playing the piano for the church since 1959. Being a teacher, she ran the program on structure, discipline and hard work and it’s that very model that has kept the Cantata going strong even after her passing back in 2020.

“Being a part of the choir is special for me and my husband. We love knowing that we are a small part of continuing Mrs. Mary’s legacy through the Christmas Cantata,” Tanya Loftin said.

Over the years some things have changed but the hard work and dedication that the choir prides itself on remains the same. Virginia Lawrence is now the director, and she takes great pride in continuing this long-standing tradition, along with the entire choir, and that will be evident.

You can witness this year’s production, titled “I Call Him Lord,” on Sunday, December 15 at 7pm. The church is located at 116 Main Street in Doyline. There will be a reception after the program in the fellowship hall. Everyone is welcome. 


We must  decrease so that God can increase

God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours.  God is infinite! He knows everything. We have finite minds; we don’t know everything.

Isaiah 55:8-9 says

8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

God has to decrease things in our lives to increase! My thoughts are not like GOD’S, because  my flesh thinks in the natural, but by faith I believe God can and will do the supernatural in the Spirit. 

If God can take 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread and feed 5000, surely he can take less and make more!

God will decrease to increase! You might say..why does God decrease things in our lives to increase? Well, God wants us to believe and trust in him and in his divine miracle working power. God will get the glory!

(Example) God chose Gideon to lead the Israelites in their fight against the Midianites. God told Gideon to trust him and fight with only 300 men. God had to decrease, so he could display his power. 

Gideon surrounded the Midianite camp at night and, at a signal, smashed jars, blew trumpets, and yelled. The Midianites were confused by the noise and light display and began to fight and kill each other. Gideon then ordered the Israelites to attack, and his small army won the battle. (Read Judges 6-8)

Gideon’s story is a reminder that God calls people to live courageously and to trust in God, even when things are difficult and we don’t always understand what he’s doing.

God knows when the odds are against us, and his faithfulness will always cover those whom he chooses to use for a great and mighty work.

He has placed something great for each of us to do, even when you don’t see it, trust God and believe.

The odds were against Mary, Jesus’ mother, but God chose her to give birth to our savior Jesus Christ!   In order to see miracles, we must believe that God can do the impossible. We must decrease in our flesh so that God can increase the spirit in us. 

John the Baptist’s purpose in this world was to exalt Christ, not himself. John decreased and Christ increased! 

John 3:30. “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

Prayer: Thank you, God, for your grace and mercy.  Lord, help us to trust you and help us to walk by faith and not by sight. Father God, we humbly ask that you bind out every plan, distractions, and destroy the plans of the devil. In Jesus’ Name. Amen

Be Encouraged!

To God be the glory!


Springhill Methodist Church Choir presents ‘LOVE IS BORN’ Christmas Cantata

Pastor Dr. David Ellis and the congregation of the Springhill Methodist Church, located at 104 4th Street Northwest in Springhill, invite the public to join them as they prepare for the Birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ! 

On December 15, at 10:55 a.m., Lindy Dyson will direct the Chancel Choir as they present their Christmas Cantata “LOVE IS BORN” composed and arranged by Lloyd Larson.

“LOVE IS BORN” is a musical journey from dark to light; from hopelessness to fulfilled promise.  It reminds us that even in our most difficult moments, God is present and has an ultimate plan which shall prevail.  This musical is a blending of original and familiar melodies that underscore the timeless message of Emmanuel coming from the very heart of God and entering our world with His message of hope, peace, joy, and love.  These narrated pieces appeal to both traditional and contemporary congregations.

May all who will hear this work be encouraged and inspired by the timely yet timeless message of promise that Love (Jesus) has indeed been born for each of us.

Immediately following the cantata, there will be a covered dish “A Taste of Christmas” luncheon in the Fellowship Hall.

December 24, is the Christmas Eve “Candlelight Service” and will be at 5:30 p.m.  This is a short, relaxed time for all to worship together.

Everyone is encouraged to attend these meaningful and spiritual services.  You may phone the Springhill Methodist Church office, 318-539-9153, for additional information.


LSU AgCenters need help with programs

We are seeking your assistance to enhance the LSU AgCenter Webster and Claiborne parishes’ Nutrition & Community Health programs.

Your responses will help us understand the needs and preferences enabling us to better facilitate programs and community outreach.

The survey is designed to be brief and should take only a few minutes of your time.

Survey Link: https://forms.office.com/r/myqa5w9j5V

(Shakera Williams, DrHSc, MPH, Assistant Extension Agent, Nutrition & Community Health, (Flavors of Health, SNAP-Ed, CDC-HOP/Healthy Communities) Webster and Claiborne parishes, sswilliams@agcenter.lsu.edu |LSU AgCenter.com)


Join our team in North Webster Parish

If you answered yes to the above questions, then we would love to talk with you.

Webster Parish Journal is looking for a writer to help cover the northern part of Webster Parish. We want someone who loves to write features about the people who make this community great.

We also need someone who can take on some assignments and cover local government.

If this sounds like you, please email wpjnewsla@gmail.com .

We look forward to hearing from you.


Webster Parish Criminal Court – Dec. 13

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

ALLISON, WESTON ROBERT

99283 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense

99283 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

A For Further Disposition LSP

ARMSTRONG, CHARLES RENE

T058124 Switched License Plates

T058124A No Insurance

A Arraignment WPSD

ARMSTRONG, CHARLES RENE

99308 CT 1 Disturbing The Peace

99308 CT 2 Criminal Trespassing

99308 CT 3 Simple Assault

A For Further Disposition WPSD

ARRINGTON, TIMOTHY E

98400 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

A Status Hearing DIPD

Restitution owed to Rasco’s Grocery per the report- $5,430.00, plus $814.50 fee, = $6,244.50 total

BAILEY, CECILEY KELLY

98969 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS

A Fine & Cost Review Hearing MPD

BECK, JR, CHARLES THOMAS

99373 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

99373 CT. 2 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

Assign to Div A to follow docket #99043 A Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

BROWN, ANDREA PARKER-SMITH

98042 Possession of a Schedule III CDS

A Status Hearing MPD

BROWN, ROGER WAYNE

99374 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

CRAIG, JAYCE STEWART

99260 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

99260 Operating a Vehicle Without Properly Lit Lamps for Condition

A For Further Disposition LSP

FARRAR CALLENDER, AMANDA

98877 Ct. 1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

98877 Ct. 2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

A Diversion Review Hearing WPSD

FERRELL, SHAVENSKI D.

98399 Aggravated Battery

A Status Hearing MPD

FISHER, CHRISTOPHER JOSE

99246 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

99246 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

99246 CT. 3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

99246 CT. 4 Failure to Use Safety Belt

99246 CT. 5 Operating A Vehicle With An Expired Driver’s License

A For Further Disposition LSP

GOODMAN, LAURA

INCOMING Monetary Instrument Abuse

A Arraignment SPRING

GRIGSBY, CAMEDRICK SAMAJ

99352A Resisting An Officer

Please reassign to Div F to follow co-def A Arraignment Bond Return Date Co-Def: K. Mayfield

GRIGSBY, MIKIERRA

99377 Simple Escape

A Arraignment SPRING

GUTIERREZ -AGUILAR, LUIS MIGUEL

98970 CT 1 Simple Burglary

98970 CT 2 Illegal Use Of Weapons Or Dangerous Instrumentalities

A Status Hearing DIPD

Restitution owed to the victim per the report- $14,314.12, plus $2,147.11 fee = $16,461.23 total

HARRIS, SABRINA RAVEN

98089 Ct. 1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

98089 Ct. 2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

A Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

HAYNES, WESLEY ALLEN

99134 Battery of a Dating Partner

A Arraignment WPSD

HOLLINGQUEST, RICARDO A.

98370 Ct. 1 Disturbing The Peace

98370 Ct. 2 Criminal Trespassing

Recall BW if def is here

A Arraignment WPSD

HOWELL, SUMMER

99365 Simple Burglary of a Vehicle

A Arraignment SPRING

JOHNSON, ISIAH JESHUN

99185 CT 1 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

99185 CT 2 Obstruction Of Justice

A Status Hearing WPSD

JOHNSON, JOSHUA MEREDITH

INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

A Arraignment

JOHNSON, MARTEZ DESHAUN

98225 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense

A Probation Violation Hearing MPD

JONES, BRUCE BERNARD

99073 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

A Status Hearing MPD

KEMP, JR., DARRYL WAYNE

99064A Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

99064 Ct. 1 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

99064 Ct. 2 Resisting An Officer

99064 Ct. 3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

99064 Ct. 4 Operating A Vehicle With Improperly Lit Lamps For Conditions

99064 Ct. 5 Failure To Dim Lights – Oncoming

A Status Hearing MPD

KEMP, JR., DARRYL WAYNE

98421 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

A Probation Violation Hearing MPD

KEMP, JR., DARRYL WAYNE

98421 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

A Fine & Cost Review Hearing MPD

LIMOSNERO, JAMES D

98907 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Probation Violation Hearing MPD

Please make forfeiture of firearm part of any plea/sentence agreement.

LIMOSNERO, JAMES D

98907 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Fine & Cost Review Hearing MPD

Please make forfeiture of firearm part of any plea/sentence agreement

LOC, VINH KHAI

98569 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

Co-Def: S. Yu

A Status Hearing LSP

LOCKWOOD, DYLAN ANDREW

99029 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense

99029 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

A Remand LSP

LUCAS, ANDRES

98924 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense

98924 CT. 2 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

98924 CT. 3 Improper Lane Usage

98924 CT. 4 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

A Trial LSP

MALONE, ANTHONY L.

98935 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS

A Fine & Cost Review Hearing MPD

MAYFIELD, JR., KEVIN DALE

98560 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

A Fine & Cost Review Hearing SPRING

MAYFIELD, JR., KEVIN DALE

98560 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

A Probation Violation Hearing SPRING

MAYFIELD, JR., KEVIN DALE

99352 CT 1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

99352 CT 2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

Co-Def: C. Grigsby

A Arraignment WPSD

MCCARTER, LEONARDO DEVINCI

98445 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98445 CT. 2 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

98445 CT. 3 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Headlamps

A Probation Review LSP

MOORE, DARIEN DANTRELL

98255A Accessory After The Fact

A Status Hearing MPD

Co-Def: D. Willis

PERRY, KENNETH RAY

98627 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

Remand for Sentence w/PSI

A Sentencing Hearing SPRING

PETERS, TADARIUS

99376 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Arraignment

QUARLES, CASSANDRA A

99375 Ct. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Under Suspension For Certain Prior

99375 Ct. 2 Improper Equipment (License Plate)

99375 Ct. 3 Failure to Use Safety Belt

A Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

RENO, TAYLOR

99321 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Arraignment MPD

ROBINSON, APRIL

98596 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98596 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

98596 CT. 3 Failure to Use Safety Belt

A Probation Violation Hearing LSP

ROGERS, JAMES JEREMY

99372 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

99372 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

A Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

RUSHING, BRUCE DANDRE

99146 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Trial MPD

STEPHENS, JARYON

98880 CT 1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98880 CT 2 Attempted Second Degree Murder

Co-Def: G. Kemp

A Status Hearing MPD

SUKEY, BRANDON MICHAEL

99189 Telephone Harassment

A For Further Disposition WPSD

SUMNER, JUSTIN SHAWN

99038 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Fine & Cost Review Hearing SPRING

SUTTON, JACOB ALAN

98974 Cruelty To Juveniles

A Fine & Cost Review Hearing WPSD

TAYLOR, MICHAEL W.

98870 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

A Fine & Cost Review Hearing MPD

TIMMONS, JIMMY

99155 Ct. 1 Fail to Report Accident

99155 Ct. 2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000.00

A For Further Disposition WPSD

Restitution owed to the victim per the report- $200.00 plus $30 fee = $230.00 total

WALKER, DEMARIO MARQUIS

99170 Home Invasion

If Defendant present, please recall 12/9 BW A Bond Return WPSD

WALKER, DEMARIO MARQUIS

INCOMING Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

If Defendant present, please recall 12/9 BW A Bond Return WPSD

WARREN, CHADRICK MALIK

99313 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

A Status Hearing MPD

WILLIAMS, JAMILA

99116 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000.00

A Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

WILLIAMS, RAYMOND TED

98454 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98454 Improper Lane Usage

98454 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

A For Further Disposition LSP

WILLIS, DEMARCUS JERMAINE

99271 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

99271 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

99271 CT 3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

A Status Hearing MPD

WILLIS, DEMARCUS JERMAINE

98255A Accessory After The Fact

Co-Def: D. Moore

A Status Hearing MPD

WILLIS, GREGORY CARTEZ

99126 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense

99126 CT. 2 Operating A Vehicle While Under Suspension For Certain Prior

99126 CT. 3 Speeding 25 & OVER

99126 CT. 4 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

A For Further Disposition LSP

YU, SHUNHUA

98569 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

Co-Def: V. Loc Cantonese Interpreter

A Status Hearing LSP

ZUBER, JENNIFER M.

99229 Obstructing Public Passages

A Arraignment Summons WPSD


Upcoming Events

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.


Webster Parish Traffic Court – Dec. 13

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

Notice of Death – December 11, 2024

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.)


Doyline man arrested on multiple charges of indecent behavior

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.


Ordinance promises adjustments to four top city salaries in 2027

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.


Traffic stop, foot chase lead to drug arrest

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.


Trading places: Kennon is named WPSB president; Strong to hold vice presidency

Same faces, different titles. Johnnye Kennon (right) is Webster Parish School Board President for 2025; Charles Strong was elected vice president.

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.

North Webster Upper Elementery teacher Ametrica Jones receives Employee of the Month/December plaque from Kevin Thompson of Taylor and Sons.

Forecast: Sunny until Friday

 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


Parish experiences increase in sales tax revenue

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.  


Legal Notice: Bids for Hangar Construction

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


To the best friends a bum knee ever had …OR a dynamic doctor duo takes a bow, waves so long

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


DAR introduces 6 new members

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.