The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Traffic Court Friday, October 9:

ABDULKAREEM, YASER ABDULBASET
T154126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

ACKEL, JOHN
T154226 Failure to Use Safety Belt

ALDERMAN, JAMES
T154326 Failure to Use Safety Belt
*GOOD ATT

ALEXANDER, JALON D
T195726 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Headlamps

ALLEN, JEREMY LEE
T154426 Failure to Use Safety Belt

ANDERSON, LUSHANER R.
T154526 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

BAXTER, JACOB DEWAYNE
T154626 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BEENE, SHEMAIAH YAKIRA
T154726 Speeding 11-15 MPH

BENSON, EARL D
T154826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BLACKMON, ANTHONY D
T154926 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BOYD, LACY
T155026 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BOZARD, TUCKER BLAKE
T155126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BRADFORD, SABRINA
T155326 Speeding 11-15 MPH
*50/35

BRADSHAW, LAUREN NICOLE
T155226 Speeding 16-24 MPH

BUFKIN, VIRGINIA L
T155426 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BUNTON, BRUCE ANTHONY
T153126 Speeding 11-15 MPH
*70/55

BURDETTE, LATONYA T
T155526 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*74/55

BURLEY, MEGAN
T195926 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CALAS, DAYRON JORGE PEREZ
T155626 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*73/55

CALLAWAY, AUSTIN GARY
T155726 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*93/70

CARTER, CLINTON G.
T155826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CARTER, JODY LYNN
T102426 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CLARK, GAVYN TYLER
T153226 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle Single vehicle crash

CORLEY, DAMYSIA LASHAE
T155926 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*75/55

COURSON, MAKHALA GABRIELLA MARYNN
T156026 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CROCKETT, RINESHA D.
T156126 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

DISON, WESLA MICHELLE
T156226 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

DIVINE, CHRISTOPHER LACY
T156326 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*71/55

DOWLING, ALEX JORDON
T156426 Failure to Use Safety Belt

DUEHART, SHANAISIA ANIEA MONEA
T156526 Improper Driving Left Of Center

ELLINGTON, JR, ANTHONY MAURICE
T156626 Operating A Vehicle With Obstructed Windshield And/Or Window View

ENNIS, BOBBIE JON
T156726 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

EVANS, MIRACLE RENIKE
T156826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

FARLEY, MADELYN
T156926 Speeding 11-15 MPH
*69/55

FLORES, SHARON NAOMI
T157026 Speeding 25 & OVER
*105/70 GOOD ATT

FONTENOT, JR, GLYNN E
T157126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

GAGE, MARETTA
T072426 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GAYNOR, JASON TRAVIS
T096725 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T096725A Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

GAYNOR, JASON TRAVIS
T051326 Improper Turn And/Or Failure To Give Required Signal
T051326A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GONZALEZ, MALACHI XAVIER
T157226 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

GREEN, JAMACIYAH
T185326 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T185326A Operating A Vehicle Without Current Number Plates

GREEN, ZAYLAN LARONTAE
T178426 Failure to Use Safety Belt

GRIFFITH, RICHARD A
T178526 Failure to Use Safety Belt

HALL, JOHN R
T179226 Failure to Use Safety Belt

HARRIS, JAYLEN AMBER
T178626 Failure to Use Safety Belt

HARRISON, JESSICA S
T178726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

HARVEY, CHAD
T153326 Speeding 25 & OVER
*84/55

HAULCY, JERKIYA JERSHAE
T178826 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T178826A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

HAWTHORNE, TARCUS M.
T038026 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

HERNANDEZ, JORGE ERNESTO DISTOTUAR
T178926 Speeding 16-24 MPH

*75/55 G/A

HUDSON, DIAMOND
T026126 Speeding 11-15 MPH
T026126A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

HUDSON, III, JAMES EDWARD
T179026 Failure To Secure Registration

HUDSON, JOSHUA B
T179126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

JACKSON, LARRY PRESTON
T179326 Following Too Closely
*CRASH

JAMES, CARA
T153426 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*75/55

JARMILLO, OSCAR ANTONIO
T179426 Speeding 11-15 MPH

JEFFERSON, KENDRA C
T179526 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*53/35

JOHNSON, ASHLEI ROSHEL
T179626 Window Tint

JOHNSON, JOHNNY
T179726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

JOHNSON, LADAISHA ANGELIQUE
T179826 Speeding 16-24 MPH

JOHNSON, RAYMOND
T179926 Failure to Use Safety Belt

JONES, DARYL
T180026 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*72/55
T180026A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

KAPP, JUSTIN FORREST
T180126 Speeding 11-15 MPH
*60/45

KENNON, JIMMY
T153526 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License
T153526A No Motorcycle Endorsement

KNOWLES, JEKOYE TRAVON
T180226 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*87/70

LASTRAPES, DENNIS J
T180326 Failure to Use Safety Belt

LEON, JOSE LUIS MENDOZA
T180426 Speeding 16-24 MPH

LOPEZ-SANCHEZ, DOUGLAS ARIEL
T195826 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License
T195826A Speeding 16-24 MPH

MAJOR, COURTNEY N
T180526 Failure to Use Safety Belt
*GOOD ATT

MARIANO, HORACIO FLORES
T180626 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
T180626A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

MARTINEZ, ARTURO ISAAC
T180726 Improper Turn
*CRASH

MCCLAIN, SARAH SHEA
T180826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

MCCOY, AUNASHIA QUNEICE
T180926 Improper Child Restraint
T180926A Failure to Use Safety Belt

MCDONALD, BRITTANY LANELL
T181026 Speeding 11-15 MPH

MILES, LADENA
T181126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

MILLER, KENNETH MARK
T089423 Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

MIMS, ROCKY K
T181226 General Speed Law
*52/35
T181226A Improper Child Restraint

MINIFIELD, SHERMAN E
T181326 Speeding 16-24 MPH

MITCHELL, DESTANY KEYONA
T181426 Failure to Use Safety Belt

NEALY, JR, FLETCHER
T153626 Operating A Vehicle Of Improper Size, Width, Height, Length, Weight
T153626A No Insurance

O’BRIEN, ERIC WHITLEY
T079026 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

ORTEGA, GABRIEL
T181526 Improper Driving Left Of Center

PARSON, CARLDARIUS LAVELLE
T181826 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*86/70
T181826A Failure to Use Safety Belt

PATTERSON, JEREMY SHANE
T181926 Failure to Use Safety Belt

POWELL, EDDIE RAY
T069925 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T069925A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

RAHMANI, ABDUL GHAFAR
T182026 Operating A Vehicle With An Improperly Secured Load
*CRASH

RAY, ROBERT
T182126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

ROBINSON, KEVIAUYNA ALEIGHA NICOLE
T182426 Failure to Use Safety Belt

REEVES, JONATHAN B.
T182226 Failure to Use Safety Belt

ROBERTSON, JOSEPH B
T182326 Failure to Use Safety Belt

ROBINSON, KIYARIAH JUMIRACLE
T182526 Window Tint

ROGERS, JACARIOUS JAHEIM
T182626 Improper Child Restraint
T182626A Improper Lane Usage
T182626B Improper Equipment (License Plate)

ROLLING, OSHEA
T182726 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
Single vehicle crash

SALSBERRY, JULIAN
T182826 Operating A Vehicle With An Expired Driver’s License

SHORTER, SHEILA S
T182926 Failure to Use Safety Belt

SIBLEY, JR, CURTIS E
T153726 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
T153726A No Insurance
T153726B Failure To Secure Registration
Single vehicle crash

SIMMONS, DAMIAN LAMON
T079524 Operating A Vehicle Without Proper Required Equipment
T079524A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

SIMS, MARLICIA
T183026 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T183026A Improper Child Restraint

SLATTERY, III, JOHN BERNARD
T183126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

SMITH, CARMELO TYRESE
T183226 Speeding 16-24 MPH
T183226A Improper Child Restraint

SNEED, KATAJAH
Failure to Use Safety Belt

SNELL, COLBY JACOB
T183326 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*90/70

SOLOMON, ELIZABETH MARIA-LANEA
T183426 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*93/70

STEWART,, JR., JAMES A.
T183526 Failure to Use Safety Belt

STONE, CAMERON A
T183626 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

TALBOT, KIMBERLEE
T183726 Speeding 16-24 MPH

TAYLOR, KYLEE KESHAE
T183826 Speeding 11-15 MPH
*50/35 G/A

THOMAS, DATRIEKA DANIA
T183926 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*93/70

THOMAS, JUSTIN WADE
T184026 Failure to Use Safety Belt

THOMAS, KEVIN JAMES
T184126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

THOMAS, MARIEON OWENS
T184226 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate
T184226A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

TRANSOU, JAMES JOHANNESSON
T184326 Window Tint

VARGAS, JUAN JORGE
T184426 Failure to Use Safety Belt

VERA, YAHIR
T184526 Speeding 25 & OVER
*90/55

WALLER, DANETTE DELAYNE
T184626 Speeding 16-24 MPH
*74/55

WALMSELY, CLAY BRIAN
T184726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WARD, DELJANAE
T154723 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

WARD, TEWANA COLLETE
T153826 Failure To Secure Registration

WARNER, JASON LEWIS
T184826 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T184826A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

WASHINGTON, MONTERRIC JALIEH
T153926 Speeding 16-24 MPH

WASHINGTON, SAMANTHA LATOYA
T154026 Operating A Motorcycle, Motor-Driven Cycle, Or Motorized Bicycle Without A Safety Helmet

WHITE, BILL
T184926 Speeding 16-24 MPH

WILLIS, BROOKE
T185026 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WINTERS, GEORGE H.
T185126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WYNNE, STEPHANIE LYNN
T185226 Failure to Use Safety Belt

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The inaugural festival brings 10 artists and two nights of country music to Natchitoches as Northwestern State University launches an annual event with ambitions to become North Louisiana’s premier music festival. Get your tickets now at topofthebootmusicfest.com.

By Cole Gentry, Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University

On Oct. 16 and 17, Northwestern State University will welcome country music fans, alumni, students, families and visitors to Natchitoches for the inaugural Top of the Boot Music Festival. The two-day event will bring established country stars, rising artists and Louisiana talent to the NSU campus for a fall weekend centered on live music, good times and the people you want beside you.

Friday, Oct. 16, opens with co-headliners Lee Brice and Louisiana native Dylan Scott.

Brice brings a catalog that includes eight No. 1 country singles and songs such as “I Drive Your Truck,” “I Don’t Dance,” “Hard to Love” and “One of Them Girls.” Scott returns to his home state with four No. 1 songs on the U.S. Country Airplay charts, including “My Girl,” “New Truck,” “Can’t Have Mine” and “This Town’s Been Too Good to Us.”

Lanie Gardner, Jackson Wendell and Clay LaBeff complete Friday’s lineup.

Saturday, Oct. 17, features Flatland Cavalry as the night’s headliner. The Texas Country and Americana group has earned three ACM Group of the Year nominations from 2024 through 2026. Ian Munsick, Rodney Atkins, Laine Hardy and Bottomland round out Saturday’s lineup.

Across two nights, 10 artists will take the stage at Northwestern State.

The reach of Top of the Boot extends well beyond Natchitoches. Marketing for the festival stretches across a multi-state region from Little Rock, Arkansas, to Jackson, Mississippi, south to New Orleans, Louisiana and west to Houston and Dallas, Texas.

That reach reflects the scale of the vision. Top of the Boot is being built as an annual destination event with the goal of becoming North Louisiana’s premier music festival, bringing country music fans from across Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi and Texas to Natchitoches each fall.

The festival will take place behind the NSU Soccer Complex along Tarleton Drive. Food trucks, vendors and two nights of performances will create a place for friends, families and loved ones to spend a fall weekend together.

For alumni, it is a reason to come home. For prospective students and families, it is another way to experience Northwestern State. For visitors, it is an invitation to spend time on campus and in Natchitoches while enjoying one of North Louisiana’s largest new entertainment events.

Northwestern State Athletics also has a direct stake in the festival’s success. The event was created to benefit NSU student-athletes while showcasing the university and Natchitoches to visitors from across the region.

Every annual tradition has a first year. For Top of the Boot, that year is 2026. Bring your friends. Bring your family. Come back to NSU or experience our campus for the first time. Spend two nights with some of country music’s biggest names and be there at the beginning of something built to return year after year.

Top of the Boot Music Festival
Oct. 16-17, 2026
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, Louisiana

General admission and VIP options are available. Get your tickets now at topofthebootmusicfest.com.

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Got a question … something you’ve always wanted to know? Can Minden’s city council or police chief candidates answer that question? KASO/KBEF owner Mark Chreene has expanded the deadline to submit your questions for an upcoming forum at Minden Community House.

You have until 5 p.m. Friday, October 9, to email your questions to mark@kbef.com with “Forum Question” in the subject line. Senders should specify whether their question is for the City Council or Chief of Police candidates. Questions received after the deadline will not be considered, and questions will not be taken online during the forum. The stations will review submissions for relevance and fairness. Time limits may prevent every submitted question from being asked.

KASO 1240 AM and KBEF 104.5 FM will host a public forum for candidates in the contested Minden City Council and Chief of Police races on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the Minden Community House.

The forum will give voters an opportunity to hear directly from candidates about issues relevant to the offices they seek and the community they would serve. The radio stations will organize and moderate the event. Participating candidates in each race will receive an equal opportunity to respond.

The forum is open to the public and will stream live at facebook.com/mindenradio. The stations will announce participating candidates after responses to their invitations are received.

The event will consist of the candidate forum only. There will be no meet-and-greet or campaign tables. KASO and KBEF are independently planning the forum and setting its format and questions. Candidates and campaign committees have no role in those decisions. The City of Minden and Minden Police Department are not sponsors and have no role in planning or conducting the event.

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The Minden Evening Lions Club will host a Veterans Day pancake breakfast on Saturday, November 14, 2026, with support from the Webster Parish Veterans Safety Net and the American Legion.

The breakfast is the club’s way of saying thank you to the veterans of Webster Parish and the surrounding area. Veterans and their families are invited to come out, share a meal, and spend the morning together.

The breakfast will be held at the American Legion Hall in Minden, serving from 8 until 10 a.m.

Anyone interested in helping or needing more information should email the club at MindenEveningLionsClub@gmail.com.

About the Minden Evening Lions Club: The Minden Evening Lions Club serves the Minden community through vision screenings, hunger relief, youth programs, and support for Louisiana Lions Camp. Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization. We Serve.

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Webster Parish Libraries launched its annual Trunk-or-Treat events in Fall 2021 to offer a safe, family-friendly alternative to traditional trick-or-treating while fostering community connections with local businesses. Quickly embraced in both northern and southern parts of the parish, the event has grown in popularity each year. Held on or just before Halloween, the celebration invites children to trick-or-treat from the creatively decorated trunks of vehicles sponsored by local organizations—bringing the entire community together in festive spirit.

Trunk or Treat Lane: Wander through rows of creatively decorated trunks, each one offering a unique and themed experience. From haunted houses to magical kingdoms, enjoy a variety of eye-catching designs and delicious treats as you visit each trunk. Bring your bags and prepare for an abundance of candy and goodies!

Library Attraction House: Scene it! The show doesn’t stop at the trunks! Step inside our movie-themed attraction house and journey through a collection of unforgettable scenes inspired by the magic of the big screen. From adventure and fantasy to timeless classics and family favorites, each room offers a new cinematic experience filled with fun details, interactive moments, and plenty of surprises. Whether you’re a movie buff or just along for the treats, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into the action. Grab your ticket, follow the scenes, and see where the story takes you!

Admission: There is no charge to attend this event or to participate in any of the activities offered. As a public library system and an active community hub, our mission is to bring communities together and provide equal access to resources for all. While admission and participation are free, we encourage attendees to sign up for a library card at no cost and to explore the wide range of services our libraries provide.

Road Closures (Minden) – For the safety of walking pedestrians, the following roads will be closed to traffic: 

• East and West Street between Elm Street and Buchanan Street (Front of Library)

• Buchanan Street between East and West Street and Ferguson Street (Left of Library)

• Ferguson Street between Elm Street and Buchanan Street (Behind Library)

• Elm Street between East and West Street and Goode Avenue (Right of Library – Extended)

Calling All Businesses & Organizations!

Don’t miss your chance to be part of Scene It Trunk or Treat. It’s a great opportunity to connect with your community and be part of a blockbuster hit! Theme participation is optional, and there’s no cost to join.

 Deadline to register: October 12, 5PM

 Sign up here:  websterpl.org/about-4

Locations:

 Minden Library – South Branches: October 20, 2026 | 5:30–7:30 PM (Rain date: Oct. 22)

 Springhill Library – North Branches: October 29, 2026 | 5–7 PM (Rain date: Oct. 30)

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Three of four Webster Parish High School teams will play Thursday this week, therefore the Pick’em contest will close a day early. Minden High School is the only team playing Friday. So get your picks in EARLY.

You can click below for this week’s games, pick the winning teams and get in the running to win $100. The game closes out at 6 p.m. Friday, and a new game starts Monday.

Our four parish high school teams will be featured in the contest, as well as some college and pro teams and two tie breakers.

Each week, the contest closes at 6 p.m. before Friday’s high school games, unless there is a Thursday game, then it closes at 6 p.m. that day.

Weekly winners will be notified and announced in the following Wednesday edition of the Journal. If you win, your photo will be taken with the owner of our Title Sponsor Under Dawgs. Remember, you must 18 or older to play.

Thank you to all our sponsors this year. In addition to Title Sponsor Under Dawgs, Broken Bean will be our anchor sponsor. Others include Holcomb’s Body Shop, A.J. Price Tire, Brown Chrysler, Shelter Insurance, KASO/KBEF, Express Tax and Title and Mike’s Hometown Spirits with Hugh Woods Specialty Meats and Catering. Please patronize these local businesses.

So, fire up your phones, tablets or computers to pick ‘em, click the button below and get started.

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Friday, October 9:

ALSUP, JON WESLEY
100631 Gross Littering

ANDERSON, GERMAL RAY
100377 CT 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
100377 CT 2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000
100377 CT 3 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)

ANDREWS, II, JAMES ROBERT
99948 CT 1 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling
99948 CT 2 Attempted Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

ARMSTRONG, JOHN ISSAC
99883 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

BATTON, JAQUAVA MALIK
99289 CT 1 Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer
99289 CT 2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

BERAUD, KALEB PAUL
100089 Cruelty To Juveniles

BERAUD, KALEB PAUL
98423 Attempted Theft Of A Firearm – 1St Offense

BRADFORD, JR., KAWASKI C.
97082A Criminal Street Gangs and Patterns of Criminal Street Gang Activity

BRANTLEY, SPENCER PAUL
100628 Intentional Littering

CELMER, CAMERON DAKOTA
T091525 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
T091525 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T091525 Failure To Report An Accident And/Or Provide Proper Identification (Damages Over $100)

CLARKSON, ISSAC DESHAWON
99259 Attempted Illegal Use/ Possession/ Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or Controlled Dangerous Substance

CROCKETT, TYKEYUNA
100013 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

CROWLEY, ALAN DALE
99615 CT 1 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 2 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 3 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 4 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 5 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals

CROWLEY, KIMBERLY B.
99615 CT 1 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 2 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 3 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 4 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
99615 CT 5 Aggravated Cruelty to Animals

DAVIS, LAWEZLEON M.
99577 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
99577 CT 2 Simple Burglary
99577 CT 3 Felony Illegal Possession Stolen Things ($5,000 – $25,000)
99577 CT 4 Felony Illegal Possession of Stolen Things ($1,000 – $5,000)
99577 CT 5 Felony Illegal Possession Stolen Things ($5,000 – $25,000)
Restitution per impact statements- $1,969 plus $295.35 fee = $2,264.35 total

EASON, MICHAEL SHANE
100131 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS

EMORY, HALEY BROOKE
100207 Theft of $5000 or More but Less than $25,000
Restitution owed- $7,776, plus $1,166.40 fee = $8,942.40 total

FERRELL, JR., TERRY LEE
100190 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

FLOURNOY, DAMETRICK
100647-CT.1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100647-CT.2 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
100647-CT.3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
100647-CT.4 Improper Lane Usage
100647-CT.5 Speeding 11-15 MPH

FRAZIER, WILLIAM MATTHEW
99583 Insurance Fraud

FRAZIER, WILLIAM MATTHEW
100521 CT 1 False Imprisonment
100521 CT 2 Simple Battery
100521 CT 3 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GIFFORD, DAVID W
98789 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
98789A Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

GIPSON, CURTIS
100571 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

GOODWIN, MILLER DRAKE
100629 Intentional Littering

GRIGSBY, LATARICE DEWAYNE
100334 CT 1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
100334 CT 2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
*BDCC OC 8/3 Trial 11/30

HAIR, DANIEL W.
99857 Simple Robbery
*Deceased 9-13-26
Restitution owed to the victim- $384 plus $57.60 fee = $441.60 total

HAIR, DANIEL W.
100331-CT.1 Simple Battery
100331-CT.2 Interfering with Emergency Communication
*Deceased 9-13-26

HARDY, JR, MARQUIS DANDRE
100294 CT. 1 Underage Driving Under the Influence
100294 CT. 2 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
100294 CT. 3 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
100294 CT. 4 Improper Turn And/Or Failure To Give Required Signal
100294 CT. 5 Improper Lane Usage

HARRIS, LAJAYDEN VIDALE
99683 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

HARTWELL, TYLER JOSEPH
98237 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Fourth or Subsequent

HARTWELL, TYLER JOSEPH
100376 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

HAWTHORNE, ELIJAH JOHN DAVIS
100637 CT 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100637 CT 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
100637 CT 3 Failure to Use Safety Belt
100637 CT 4 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
100637 CT 5 Operating a Vehicle Without Properly Lit Lamps for Condition
100637 CT 6 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Tail Lights

HILYER, III, WILLIAM G
100095 Theft Under $1,000

HODGE, BRANDON MICHAEL
100244 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

IVERSON, JR., JAMES LEWIS
100577 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

JOSEPH, DAVID LYNN
100088 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100088 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100088 CT 3 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
Please make sure forfeiture of dwelling and property located at 707 Weston St, Minden, La and $3,268 in US Currency is part of any plea/sentencing agreement.

JOSEPH, DAVID LYNN
100088 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100088 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100088 CT 3 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
Please make sure forfeiture of dwelling and property located at 707 Weston St, Minden, La and $3,268 in US Currency is part of any plea/sentencing agreement.

KEMP, DERRICK DWAYNE
99424 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

KEY, MINNIE LEE
100636 CT 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100636 CT 2 Improper Lane Usage

KINNARD, JAREOUS
100634 CT 1 Gross Littering
100634 CT 2 Gross Littering

LAUDERDALE, CHANTACY NICOLE
100633 Gross Littering

MALONE, ANTHONY L.
98935 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS

MARKRAY, JADARIUS TERRENCE
100113 Unauthorized use of a Movable less than $1,000

MCDANIEL, KEVIN BERNARD
100635 CT 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100635 CT 2 Resisting An Officer
100635 CT 3 Modification of Exhaust Systems
100635 CT 4 Failure to Use Safety Belt
100635 CT 5 Prohibited Vehicle Modifications; Wheel Well

MCDONALD, CHRISTOPHER J.
99353 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

MILES, KENECIYA TASIA
99366 Contributing To The Delinquency Of Juveniles

MOORE, DARIEN DANTRELL
98255A Accessory After The Fact

MOORE, DARIEN DANTRELL
100593 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

MOORE, JR., TRACY DARNELLE
100541 CT 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
100541 CT 2 Simple Battery

MORRIS, CHANSTONCE SHEQUELLE
100575 Cruelty To The Infirmed

NOLEN, JR., FREDDIE
98650 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

NORMENT, WHITNEY LEE
100264 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100264 Simple Burglary of a Vehicle

PARISH, JAQUESHA
100383 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

PARKER, CHRISTOPHER
99765 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

RATLING, KERIKIMERON J.
99581 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or
Controlled Dangerous Substance

RICHARDSON, CORWIN K.
99721 CT 1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
99721 CT 2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

SHAW, SIMUEL MALIK
100011 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
100011 CT 2 Obstruction of Justice by Tampering with Evidence

SHEPPARD, KOBE
99557 Attempted First Degree Murder

SHEPPARD, KOBE
99239 Misdemeanor Access Device Fraud
Restitution owed to the victim per the report- $771.23, plus $115.68 fee = $886.91 total

SIKES, BRENT D
INCOMING Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

STEVENS, MARCUS DARE
99524 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

STEVENS, MARCUS DARE
100282 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000

STEVENS, MARCUS DARE
T031026 Improper Passing
T031026A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

TAYLOR, MICHAEL WAYNE
98870 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

TAYLOR, MICHAEL WAYNE
98870 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

TAYLOR, MICHAEL WAYNE
99710 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

WARD, NACIA N
100215A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

WEBB, CARTAVIOUS M
100526 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
100526 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
100526 CT 3 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS

WHITE, DEJUAN S.
99685 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

WILLS, DEMARCUS DEANDRE
99937 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

WINKLER, JAMES C.
100296 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
100296 CT 2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

WORTHAM, CHARLES DUANE
100448 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

YARBROUGH, ASIA LASHA
95949 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

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Bienville Parish FPD 7 fights forest fire

On Sept. 28, Bienville Parish Fire Protection District 7 experienced a fire that burned approximately 35 acres of pine forest. The crews from Fire District 7 set up for structure protection and Louisiana Department of Forestry plowed lines around the fire to contain it. On Sept. 29, the fire jumped the lines. At this point it estimated that approximately 160 acres were burned.
Fire crews from District 7, 1, 4 and 6 from Bienville were deployed to protect homes and a medium-sized gas plant. Crews from Quitman and Hodge fire joined in the fight as well. Forestry sent seven (7) bulldozers to plow lines around the fire. The volunteer crews stayed on scene until approximately 11:30pm that night. The fire has been confirmed to have burned 208 acres.
No homes were damaged, and the gas plant was protected. FPD 7 thanks all of the surrounding departments for the assistance and immediate response to this event. Thanks to everyone on District 7 for the dedication to help protect others when they have to get up the next day and go to work.

Alexandria International Airport now offers Gateside by TSA PreCheck™

ALEXANDRIA– The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is now testing a new program, Gateside by TSA PreCheck, which allows TSA PreCheck® members and individuals with Known Traveler Numbers (KTNs) to access participating airports’ post-security area without a departing flight. This no-cost authorization is now available at select U.S. airports, including Alexandria International Airport (AEX). TSA plans to offer the program at additional airports in the coming months.
Gateside by TSA PreCheck expands upon traditional airline gate pass access, which is limited to special circumstances like accompanying a minor, a person with a disability, or a military service member. With an approved Gateside pass, eligible non-travelers can meet arriving passengers at the gate, accompany departing travelers, or enjoy airport amenities beyond security. Passes are valid for one calendar day, with same-day re-entry allowed.

Shreveport Police seize 17 firearms, ammunition and suspected narcotics in investigation

Shreveport Police Department patrol officers responded Oct. 5 to a treatment center in the 1300 block of Line Avenue after Mathew Bailey reportedly became angry when denied medication, left the facility and returned with three pistols in his waistband.
SPD patrol officers took Bailey into custody, and the Violent Crimes Abatement Team began an investigation. VCAT recovered two additional firearms from Bailey’s vehicle and developed information that led investigators to his residence in Vivian.
Working with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, investigators executed a search warrant. The investigation resulted in the seizure of 17 firearms, several thousand rounds of ammunition, 60 magazines and suspected narcotics.
Bailey was booked for simple assault. Additional weapons and narcotics charges are pending.

Bossier Parish man dies after being struck by front-end loader at west Shreveport work site

Antonio Harper, 40, of Princeton, Louisiana, was killed Monday evening after being struck by a front-end loader at an industrial work site in the 2700 block of East 70th Street in west Shreveport. Emergency responders pronounced Harper deceased at the scene at 7:48 p.m. The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office identified him. The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office is investigating the heavy machinery accident.

Claiborne school board adopts new budget, sets October meeting on tax election

The Claiborne Parish School Board unanimously adopted its 2026-27 General Fund and Special Revenue Fund budgets during its Sept. 10 meeting and scheduled an October meeting to consider calling an election on a proposed property tax.
The board voted 9-0 to adopt the budgets for the fiscal year that began July 1 and runs through June 30, 2027. One board member, Mark Perot, was absent.
The board also unanimously approved the final revision of its 2025-26 budget.
The upcoming tax election was also addressed. Board President Perry Anderson read a notice into the minutes stating that the board plans to consider, at its Oct. 15 meeting, a resolution ordering and calling an election in the Claiborne Parish Consolidated School District to authorize the levy of an ad valorem tax.
The Oct. 15 meeting was approved after the board voted 9-0 to reschedule its October meeting.

Winnfield man arrested after shooting, overnight manhunt

A Winnfield man is in custody facing multiple felony charges following an overnight manhunt that began after a shooting on Oct. 1, according to the Winnfield Police Department.
Andrew Smith, 43, of Winnfield, was arrested and booked into the Winnfield City Jail. He faces charges of aggravated battery, aggravated second-degree battery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, criminal damage to property, and trespassing.

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Thursday

Sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 63. Calm wind.

Friday

Sunny, with a high near 89. Light northeast wind becoming east 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 65.

Saturday

A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 83.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 87.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.

*Information provided by National Weather Service

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

October 9-10

Springhill Lumberjack Festival (see special event schedule.)

October 10

8:30 until 10 a.m. 2nd Annual Angel Baby Fun Run

Halo Fest: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (free to the public) Halo Fest,Miller Quarters Park 198 Gleason Street Minden, hosted by Hearts & Halos: Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness. Fun Run Registration: https://runsignup.com/Race/LA/Minden/AngelBaby2KRunWalkAndFundraisingEvent

October 12

6 p.m. KASO 1240 AM AND KBEF 104.5 FM will host a public forum for candidates in the contested Minden City Council and Chief of Police races at Minden Community House.

6 p.m., Final Night at the Museum for 2026. Kevin Flowers of the Bossier Parish Library History Center, speaking about history of Shed Road. Admission to the evening event is free, although donations are kindly accepted. Doors to the museum on Pearl Street are open at 5:30, with pot luck snacks and desserts. Seating is limited.

October 13

5:30 until 7:30 p.m., Sibley Night Out and Grand Opening for the Town Hall Playground at Sibley Town Hall. Any business, church, organization or group who wish to reserve a spot to set up and hand out information, have giveaways, and/or provide activities for the kids may do so by calling Town Hall at 318-377-0345. Anyone wishing to volunteer may do so by calling Town Hall at 318-377-0345.

October 17

7 p.m. Outdoor Movie Night, corner of E. Union and Abney streets.

October 20-24

Webster Parish Fair, Minden. (See special event schedule.)

October 24

6 p.m. Fire in the Field, at 870 Highway 516 in Heflin. The evening will feature worship led by Enrique Magana, worship leader at First Methodist Church in Monroe.

November 7

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

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

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

November 14

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

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Word of the Day: Googol

Phonetic: /goo· gol/
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition
the figure 1 followed by 100 zeros equal to 10100

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Loading crossword puzzle. One moment please.

Play Sudoku online!

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By Pat Culverhouse

Narcotics charges have been filed against a Minden man after he allegedly attempted to discard his stash prior to a traffic stop Tuesday.

Minden Chief of Police Jared McIver said 50-year-old Romulius D. Coliston is looking at charges of flight from an officer, resisting an officer, possession of CDS Sch.II (methamphetamines) and improper lane usage. He reportedly is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. No bond has been set.

McIver said MPD Office Cody James attempted to stop Coliston’s vehicle for a traffic infraction at the intersection of High and West streets, but the vehicle turned into Brooks Alley. At the time of the turn, the officer reportedly noticed the driver apparently shaking items outside the driver’s window.

Coliston’s vehicle eventually came to a halt on Brooks Alley and  he was taken into custody when he attempted to exit the vehicle. During a search of the vehicle the officer reportedly found a white crystalline substance consistent with methamphetamines located on the drivers’ set.

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

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Hershell A. Jones
September 4, 1938 — October 6, 2026
Cotton Valley
Visitation: 9 a.m. Friday, October 9, 2026, First Pentecostal Church, Cotton Valley.
Funeral service: 10 a.m., immediately following visitation.
Burial: Restland Cemetery, Nashville, Ark., under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Louis Rexford Haehn, Jr.
April 4, 1947  –  October 6, 2026
Sarepta
Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, October 8, 2026, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.
Funeral service: 1:30 p.m. Friday, October 9, 2026, Kings Corner Assembly of God, Sarepta.
Burial: Springhill Cemetery, under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Jonnie Allen Welch
February 2, 1948  –  October 2, 2026
Visitation: 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. Monday, October 12, 2026, Open Door Fellowship Church, Springhill.
Funeral service: 11 a.m., immediately following visitation.
Private Burial: Springhill Cemetery, under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Rickey Edward Holley
August 15, 1958  –  October 4, 2026
Springhill
Visitation: 1 until 2 p.m. Thursday, October 8, 2026, Bailey Funeral Home Chapel, Springhill.
Funeral service: 2 p.m., immediately following visitation.
Burial: Pilgrims Rest Cemetery, Shongaloo.

Fran Moore
October 6, 1937 — September 23, 2026
Memorial gathering: 3 p.m. Saturday October 17, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home Chapel, 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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By Paige Gurgainers –

The City of Minden and Minden Police Department are inviting residents to support survivors and raise awareness of domestic violence during a proclamation signing and community forum Thursday, October 8.

The event begins at 11:30 a.m. in the Minden Police Department parking lot at 520 Broadway Street. Held in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, the gathering will emphasize prevention, support and the community’s role in helping break the cycle of abuse.

An official proclamation signing and forum are planned, and attendees can purchase lunch from local food trucks while showing their support.

The event’s flyer carries the message “It’s Not Okay,” alongside a purple awareness ribbon, reinforcing the call to recognize domestic violence and stand with those affected.

Awareness T-shirts are also available for purchase through the QR code on the flyer. According to the flyer, all proceeds from T-shirt sales benefit the local Minden St. Jude fundraiser.

The event is hosted by the City of Minden Police Department and co-hosted by the Minden Police Association, a nonprofit organization, with support from community partners and sponsors.

For more information, contact the Minden Police Department at 318-371-4226.

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The City of Minden has issued a Boil Advisory effective October 6 for 100 Azalea Terrace Lane and 602-621 Germantown Road.

Please visit www.mindenusa.com for further information.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse –

As the fiscal year for City of Minden draws to a close, Minden City Council and citizens learned just how much bang for their buck the city is receiving before, during and after state Legislative sessions.

Caroline Mladenka, the city’s lobbyist reported during workshop and the council’s regular meeting that Minden secured more than $5.5 million in state appropriations across five line items in the 2026 regular session.

“Without Ms. Mladenka, that would’ve been zero dollars,” Mayor Nick Cox said.

The funds are appropriated in the breakdown at the bottom.

Mladenka said of the $1.7 million for the Robertson lift station (which services residences and businesses in Shreveport Road area around the business that was once Fibrebond) $800,000 is in cash.

“So you can get started on it right away,” she said. “The rest is in Priority 5.”

Above and beyond is $125,000 for a generator at Robertson.

“That’s adding another cash item, which means you can use that money right away,” Mladenka said. “Mayor Cox identified that as a high priority items, so we worked with the legislators on that.”

The $3.2 M, two million gallon water ground storage tank, which is already in progress, is receiving $547,000 in Priority 1 cash.

“We got cash on that two years ago, as well as last year, and this is to bring it to the finish line,” she said.

Another item was Marshall Street water improvements.

“That’s infrastructure, so that’s cash,” she said. “We got over $250,000 for Marshall Street.”

That item was unanimously approved during the regular council meeting.

Last on the list is money for a new fire station which will be built on Shreveport Road, west of the railroad tracks.

“We are waiting on lines of credit to be granted for the station,” Mladenka said. “But it’s really good we have the appropriations in there. We have $590,000 in Priority 2.

“We will work in the 2027 session to get that moved up,” she added.

Cox said $5.5 million does not include the money the lobbyist has secured in in 2025, the year she was hired by the council. Her contract is for approximately $10,000 a year.

“She more than earns that,” Cox said.

“Minden has a real presence in Baton Rouge,” Mladenka said. “Your mayor is easy to work with and your senator and representative are as well.”

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By Shannon Wright 

There are so many great family-friendly and community-building events taking place throughout Webster Parish, and the Men and Women of Courage are adding another special evening to the calendar with an outdoor movie night in Minden.

The event will be held Saturday, October 17, beginning at 7 p.m. in the area at the corner of E. Union and Abney, next to the funeral home. Just look for the big screen!

If you have never experienced watching a movie under the stars, this is a great opportunity to gather up your family and friends and enjoy an evening together. And even if you’ve done it before, come experience it again.

“I love seeing families get to spend time together…and witnessing God change lives,” said D. McCoy.

McCoy shared a story from the first movie night the group ever hosted.

“The first time we ever hosted a movie night, we were set up at the GBT drive-through on Broadway and a couple drove by, saw the big screen and stopped. Chris Plants spoke with them and gave them their very first Bible that night! They hadn’t seen an ad or anything, simply driving by, and God was able to change their lives,” McCoy said.

Those attending the October 17 event are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs or blankets and settle in for a free movie night. Drinks and snacks will be provided.

The movie being shown will be Disciples in the Moonlight, a powerful film that asks a thought-provoking question: What if the Bible became illegal?

The movie follows a group of believers who risk everything to preserve God’s Word and live out their faith when the Bible is no longer allowed. It is a thrilling story that is sure to give families plenty to talk about together after the movie ends.

Come enjoy a movie under the stars.

It promises to be a special night for the entire family. 

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By Paige Gurgainers –

For Hollan Randle, building a future in Minden means helping others see that they can do the same.

A registered nurse and licensed life and health insurance producer with Louisiana Benefits Group, Randle is building a career that connects two ways of serving people. Over the past year, she has helped individuals, families and businesses navigate their insurance needs while continuing her work in nursing.

Saturday evening, the Greater Minden Chamber recognized Randle as the 2026 Terry L. Gardner Top Young Professional of the Year during its “The Next Chapter of Greater Minden” celebration.

“I am so incredibly honored and grateful to be named the 2026 Terry L. Gardner Top Young Professional of the Year!” Randle said. “Thank you to the Greater Minden Chamber for this incredible recognition and for investing in the young professionals of our community.”

Randle was among the Chamber’s 2026 15 Under 40 honorees, a group recognized for building careers, growing businesses, serving others and investing in Greater Minden.

For Randle, the recognition is also an opportunity to encourage other young professionals to picture their futures close to home.

“I hope to continue encouraging young professionals to know that they have a seat at the table, their voices matter, and they can build meaningful careers and lives right here in Minden,” she said.

Her own next chapter includes continuing to develop her insurance career alongside her work as a registered nurse. She expressed gratitude for the community and the people who have supported her along the way.

That connection between professional growth and community commitment was at the heart of Saturday’s celebration. The Chamber praised the honorees not only for their accomplishments, but also for their willingness to lead, serve and invest in the place they call home.

TG Companies served as the presenting sponsor. The Chamber also thanked its Signature, Social and event sponsors, along with Cottle Catering, Under Dawgs Sports Grill, emcee Mandi Hart, Chamber board members and volunteers for helping make the evening possible.

The event celebrated 15 young professionals helping shape Greater Minden’s future. Randle’s message offered a reminder to those who may follow them: there is room to contribute, room to lead and room to build a meaningful life in Minden.

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Every now and then I think the Good Lord sends me an angel – something or someone to remind me how quickly life’s fortunes can change.  This time it was young Mr. Dylan Black. 

I struck up a conversation with Dylan the other day at a local Minden restaurant.  I learned that he was originally from Oklahoma and moved to Shreveport as a youngster where he attended Southwood High School. 

And that Dylan was quite an athlete at Southwood.  He was on the golf team and could drive a golf ball 320 years and was a star catcher on the baseball team.  His senior year, he was sought after by many colleges in both sports but decided to sign with Coach Paul Mainieri’s LSU tigers. Those of you who follow college sports know what a great honor it is to be invited to play baseball for 5-time national champion LSU.  He wanted to play golf for LSU – but Coach Mainieri, fearing he might get hurt, said he preferred he didn’t.

After he graduated, he was going to Baton Rouge to be an LSU Tiger.  Their starting catcher was going into his senior year so Dylan could look forward to lots of playing time. 

That was before a drunk driver hit Dylan’s vehicle. 

He told me about the day he was driving along Hwy. 169 near Greenwood when the trailer the man was pulling clipped his vehicle and caused it to flip 8 times.  Dylan, now 23, spends his days in a motorized wheel chair with most of his body paralyzed.

You’d think Dylan would have every right to be bitter, having his hopes and his future dashed on that fateful day – but he isn’t.  He came to Minden to reside at a local rehab center.  His physical therapy starts around 10 a.m. and goes sometimes until 4 p.m.  He exercises with a hand bike and does all he can to make sure his muscles do not atrophy.  

He showed me how he uses his good hand to change the gears on his motorized wheelchair.  “I can get it going up to about 10 miles an hour.  Sometimes, when the weather is good, I’ll drive it down Homer Road – all the way here to the restaurant.”

Dylan said that, because his spinal cord was not severed and only swollen, he has a chance at recovery.  Regaining the use of one of his hands gives him hope that more hard work during rehabilitation will continue to yield results in other areas of his body.  His confidence and determination is both amazing and contagious.

This time of year we like to think of things for which we can be thankful.  I’m thankful I met Dylan.  I’m thankful that he is alive and has a chance at recovery. 

Sometimes it takes a chance meeting, like the one we had, to make me stop to think how truly thankful I should be that my truck has never flipped over and left me the way it left Dylan.  And if it ever did, I wonder if I could sustain his level of courage and optimism.  Something tells me not.

This Thanksgiving won’t all be about the turkey, dressing, Black Friday sales, and desserts.  I owe it to Dylan and others like him, to make this Thanksgiving more of a reminder of the little things I need not take for granted – like just walking, talking, and, most of all, for the opportunity to meet an angel for Thanksgiving.

Randy lives in Minden.  He can be reached at planorand@yahoo.com.

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Congratulations Nathan Jones, winner of the Webster Parish Journal’s Pick’em contest, Week 5. Jones, along with one other player, got 10 for 10 and won with the tie breaker. He is shown here with Claudine Thomas, owner of Title Sponsor Under Dawgs, receiving his $100 prize.

Three of four Webster Parish High School teams will play Thursday this week, therefore the Pick’em contest will close a day early. Minden High School is the only team playing Friday. So get your picks in EARLY.

You can click below for this week’s games, pick the winning teams and get in the running to win $100. The game closes out at 6 p.m. Friday, and a new game starts Monday.

Our four parish high school teams will be featured in the contest, as well as some college and pro teams and two tie breakers.

Each week, the contest closes at 6 p.m. before Friday’s high school games, unless there is a Thursday game, then it closes at 6 p.m. that day.

Weekly winners will be notified and announced in the following Wednesday edition of the Journal. If you win, your photo will be taken with the owner of our Title Sponsor Under Dawgs. Remember, you must 18 or older to play.

Thank you to all our sponsors this year. In addition to Title Sponsor Under Dawgs, Broken Bean will be our anchor sponsor. Others include Holcomb’s Body Shop, A.J. Price Tire, Brown Chrysler, Shelter Insurance, KASO/KBEF, Express Tax and Title and Mike’s Hometown Spirits with Hugh Woods Specialty Meats and Catering. Please patronize these local businesses.

So, fire up your phones, tablets or computers to pick ‘em, click the button below and get started.

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Tuesday, October 20
Fair Parade Downtown Minden At 5 p.m.
Livestock Weigh-In 6 p.m.
Poultry And Rabbit Show 4:30 p.m.
No Rides Until Wednesday

Wednesday, October 21
Admission Gate Opens At 5 p.m.
Rides Start At 6 p.m.. ‘Armband Nite”
Gate Entrance Fee: $3.00/Rest Week
4-H Swine Showmanship At 6 p.m.. Then Swine Weight Classes (Livestock Arena)
Pet Show At 5 p.m.

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

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

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

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Get ready for the 42nd Annual Springhill Lumberjack Festival!

Friday, October 9

• Street Dance (7 p.m.)
  
  • Location: Springhill City Park
    
  • Highlights: Live music featuring Delta playing current and classic country tunes! Bring your lawn chairs and get ready to cut a rug.
    

Saturday, October 10

• Lumberjack Festival Parade (11  a.m.)

• Location: Down Springhill Main Street
  
• Location: Down Springhill Main Street
  
• Highlights: Log trucks, tractors, custom cars, and floats!
  
• Biscuits and Gravy Cookoff (9 a.m.) (Behind Chamber of Commerce Building

• Car Show
  
  • Location: Springhill Main Street
    
  • Registration: 9 a.m. – noon ($25 fee)
    
  • Show Hours: noon – 3 p.m. (Awards at 3 p.m.)
    
  • Details: Open to all years, makes, and models, with a People’s Choice Award. Free admission for spectators!
    
• Car Smash Fundraiser (11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
  
  • Location: Springhill City Park
    
  • Details: Support the Springhill Fire District 11! Take 2 swings at a car for $5 to help fund equipment, training, and community programs.
    
• Best Beard Contest (2 p.m.)
  
  • Location: Main Stage, Springhill City Park
    
  • Details: Sign up on the day of the festival! Categories include Full Beard, Short Beard, Longest Beard, Best Groomed, Best Natural, Best Lumberjack, and People’s Choice. Prizes provided by Pine Plaza Barbershop.
    
• Baggo (Cornhole) Tournament
  
  • Location: Springhill Main Street
    
  • Check-In: 9:30 a.m. | Bags Fly: 11 a.m.
    
  • Details: 2-person teams, double elimination ($30 per team entry) with cash payouts for top 3 teams.
    
• Cruise Night & Piney Woods Jamboree
  
  • Location: Springhill Main Street
    
  • Details: Classic cars & trucks, food vendors, and live music. Come “drag Main” one more time!
    

All-Day Attractions & Highlights

• CKCarvings Chainsaw Demonstrations: Watch award-winning carver Chad Kilpatrick create wooden masterpieces at the Clock Tower Circle with four live shows throughout the day.
  
• Antique Tractor, Engine & Power Show: Antique tractors rolling in the parade and showcased on site.
  
• Bucking Bull Rides: Test your strength for $5 a ride at City Park.
  
• Food, Crafts & Live Entertainment: Food trucks, local craft vendors, and live entertainment all day long!
  

Contact & Details

Contact Phone: 318-578-8964

Email: lumberjackfestival@yahoo.com

TikTok: @springhilllumberj

Facebook: Krewe of Nemesis-Webster

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