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Ray Dean Mazie
January 28, 1942 — September 21, 2025
Minden, La.
Graveside service: 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Gardens of Memory, Minden, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

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

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By Pat Culverhouse

Minden police officers responding to a welfare concern check at a local apartment complex Monday discovered the body of a man who investigators believe had been deceased for several weeks.

And, Chief of Police Jared McIver said, the man’s wife had apparently been living in the apartment with the body since the man’s death. The body has been sent to Little Rock, Arkansas for autopsy to determine the cause of death, the chief said.

Lead investigator on the case, Lt. Shane Griffith, head of the MPD Major Crimes Unit, said officers discovered the body lying on the floor of the apartment’s living room.

“Responding patrol officers found the man’s body, and learned his wife had been living there with the body,” Griffith said “One of the questions we have in our investigation is why she did not report the death.”

Griffith said the male, who will remain unidentified while more information is gathered, was 54 years old. His wife’s name is also being withheld while the investigation continues, he said.

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By Pat Culverhouse

What began as a traffic stop for failure to signal a turn has landed a Minden man in the parish jail on charges of DWI and possession of illegal narcotics.

Tevin Lovar Turner, 33, is being held under a $1,000 bond at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center under charges of  DWI first offense, possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines), possession of CDS Sch. I (marijuana), possession of drug paraphernalia and no turn signal.

Turner reportedly was stopped in the early morning hours Saturday by a Louisiana State Police trooper after he failed to properly signal a turn off Sheppard St. onto Martin Luther King Dr.

During questioning, the trooper reportedly smelled the odor of marijuana on Turner’s person and observed him repeatedly moving his hands in the area of his waistband. While performing a safety pat-down, the trooper reportedly noticed bulges in his front pockets.

After reportedly receiving permission to retrieve items inside the pockets, the trooper found a sock containing a glass pipe commonly used to smoke methamphetamines and a small clear plastic baggie containing a white, crystal substance in one pocket.

Inside the suspect’s other pocket, the trooper reportedly discovered a clear baggie with 19 unmarked blue pills which tested positive for methamphetamine. Inside a laptop bag in the rear seat of the vehicle, the trooper reportedly found a small amount of natural marijuana.

During questioning, Turner reportedly admitted to drinking and smoking marijuana prior to the traffic stop.

Approximately 1.6 grams of methamphetamines and approximately 28 grams of natural marijuana were seized.

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

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By Marilyn Miller

An estimated 500 airplane and car enthusiasts turned out at the Minden Airport on Saturday, Sept. 20 to take part in the annual Wings & Wheels Fly-In and Car Show. The free event featured more than 60 cars, many of which were vintage.

The show featured an estimated 30 new and vintage planes from all around, including Springhill, Monroe, Longview, TX, Alexandria and Minden.

“We pulled people from all over the Ark-La-Tex,” said Minden Airport Manager Molly Fowler. Pafford Emergency Services also showcased one of its helicopters.

Attendees were allowed to get as close to the planes as possible and to witness the various fly-ins.

There were numerous booths this year, including Pilots for Patients, the Civil Air Patrol, the Navy Reserve, Still Aviation and many other aviation groups. The Minden Fire Department provided a truck on site for additional safety.

“I’m very thankful for the people who set up booths, including the food booths,” Molly said. With temperatures climbing into the middle-90’s, the lemonade booth turned out to be a popular place.

“We’re floating the idea of having the show during the Spring next year because of the heat,” she added. “I’m just thankful for everyone who showed up. It looked like everyone had a good time, especially the kids. Next year we’ll have a bigger and better show…that’s what we always aim for.”

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By Paige Gurgainers

Louisiana’s economy is showing a blend of resilience and challenges, with recent state data pointing to modest job growth in key parishes and shifting real estate trends. In Northwest Louisiana, Webster Parish stands out for posting steady employment gains while also experiencing some of the state’s most dramatic housing market changes.

According to the Louisiana Economic Development report released September 12, total covered employment in Webster Parish rose to 11,220 in the first quarter of 2025. That marks a 0.6 percent increase from the previous quarter and a 2.4 percent gain compared to the same time last year. That performance outpaced several neighboring parishes, including DeSoto, which slipped 0.2 percent year-over-year, and Claiborne, which declined 0.7 percent year-over-year.

Statewide, Louisiana recorded 104,000 job openings in June, down 6.3 percent from the prior month but still 8.3 percent higher than June 2024. Hiring also slipped slightly, with Louisiana employers filling 70,000 positions, a 2.8 percent decline year-over-year. Worker turnover shifted as well, with “quits” dropping by more than 23 percent in Louisiana compared to last summer, signaling employees may be more cautious about changing jobs in an uncertain economy.

On the real estate front, Webster Parish’s seat, Minden, saw a surge in housing activity even as prices dropped sharply. The median listing price in Minden rose 3.2 percent in August to $162,500 compared to July, but that figure remains nearly 19 percent lower than a year ago – one of the steepest declines in Louisiana. Homes are still moving relatively quickly, averaging 65 days on the market, up slightly from 60 days a year earlier.

Louisiana as a whole has struggled with real estate affordability. The state’s median listing price of $279,900 in August was well below the United States median of nearly $430,000, but homes lingered on the market longer in Louisiana than nationally, 68 days compared to the U.S. average of 60.

For Webster Parish residents, the employment uptick and steady housing movement provide cautious optimism amid statewide uncertainty. Economists say local gains are significant given the broader national slowdown in hiring and ongoing price pressures.

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United Christian Assistance Program’s shelves are depleted! Please see the following list of needs:

Food: canned meats, soup, green beans, macaroni & cheese, crackers, cereal, powdered or non-refridgerated milk, rice

Household goods: towels, twin sheets

Clothing: men’s short-sleeve shirts (large sizes)

All food items are especially appreciated. Our pantry is low!!

Thanks to all for supporting UCAP!

UCAP is open from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at 204 Miller Street, Minden, for food, utility and rent assistance. Clothing is dispersed on Wednesdays only.

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Special musical guests for the Thursday, Sept. 25 meeting of the Minden Lions Club will be The Cox Family.

Hailing from Cotton Valley in North Webster Parish, The Cox Family continues a trademark sound spanning over 70 years of traditional roots in gospel, bluegrass and country music.

The continued legacy of founding member Willard Cox lives on through his son Sidney Cox and his daughters – Anna, Sara, and Lydia. Sidney’s oldest daughter, Anna, plays bass and entered the band with her father and two aunts in 2016. Later, his two younger daughters, Sara (guitar) and Lydia (mandolin), joined the band in 2020.

Together, The Cox Family has stayed true to the familiar harmonies by adding another generation to the music that audiences from all over the world have enjoyed throughout the years.

The Minden Lions Club meets Thursdays at noon at the American Legion Memorial Home, located at 119 W. Pine St. in downtown Minden.

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Compassionate Mental Health Care for Our Community

Springhill, LA — As mental health challenges continue to rise across the nation, Springhill Medical Center is stepping up to meet the needs of our community with accessible, professional behavioral health services—delivered with compassion, confidentiality, and a commitment to dignity.

Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or simply feeling overwhelmed, support is available—and it begins with a conversation.

Mental health touches every aspect of life—from relationships and work to physical health and daily well-being. Yet too many individuals suffer in silence due to stigma, limited access, or uncertainty about where to turn. Springhill Medical Center is working to change that narrative by offering care locally, eliminating the need for long-distance travel, and ensuring that every patient is treated with respect and personalized attention—regardless of background or circumstance.

Springhill Medical Center is proud to offer care through three highly qualified and deeply committed professionals:

• Dee Dee Welch, PMHNP-BC A Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Dee Dee provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and ongoing support for individuals dealing with mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and more. Her approach combines clinical expertise with a genuine dedication to patient wellness.
• Kelly Yerger, PMHNP-BC With over 15 years of experience, Kelly is a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner known for her holistic, patient-centered care. She provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more—bringing clinical expertise and a calming presence to every visit.
• Rayla May, LPC As a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, Rayla offers talk therapy for individuals, couples, and families. She specializes in trauma recovery, grief counseling, stress management, and emotional wellness. Her sessions provide a safe, supportive space for healing and growth.

These three providers see patients at the Doctors Clinic, conveniently located next to Springhill Medical Center. Appointments are available weekly, and new patients are warmly welcomed.

To schedule an appointment, call (318) 539-1701

Mental health care should never feel out of reach. At Springhill Medical Center, we’re committed to making it accessible, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking short-term support or long-term guidance, our team is here to walk with you—every step of the way.

Springhill Medical Center is a 48-bed hospital with a 24-hr. emergency department operating two rural health clinics and an outpatient physical therapy clinic.  For more information on Springhill Medical Center go to www.smccare.com.

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Week 4 of the 2025 season begins with all four of our high school teams playing Friday. Our Webster Parish Journal Pick ‘em Contest continues this week with our high school teams as well as college and pros for you to scroll through and choose the ones you think will win.

Week 3’s winner has already been selected by computer software. Watch for his photo in Wednesday’s WPJ.

Good luck and remember, you must be 18 or older to play.

Here is your link!

https://form.jotform.com/232385564755163

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SPRINGHILL, LA – The Krewe of Artemis expresses a heartfelt “Thank you” to the communities for your participation, acceptance and support these twenty-three delightful, growing years.

The Krewe of Artemis-Springhill began with five local volunteers discussing Mardi Gras in mid-July 2002.  By the middle of August, the name of the Krewe was chosen, officers were elected, a king and queen were selected, and The Krewe of Artemis-Springhill was officially incorporated with eighteen (18) members.   The appropriate name “Artemis” was given, for in Greek mythology, Artemis was the protector of the woodlands and the hunt.  Springhill and the surrounding areas have always depended on the woodland industry and hunting is a major pastime.

The Krewe of Artemis-Springhill, Inc. was formed to help promote the celebration of Mardi Gras in Springhill, Louisiana, and the surrounding area and to promote the City of Springhill and its trade area throughout the Ark-La-Tex.  It is nonsectarian, nonpolitical and nonpartisan.

The mission of Artemis is to gather people with common interests together on a social level: to celebrate the festival season, to educate the public on Mardi Gras’ rich tradition and cultural history, to promote Springhill and the area as to name recognition and commerce and to assist those in need around us with social outreach programs.

The Krewe of Artemis – Springhill supports many community activities and promotes North Webster Parish as Goodwill Ambassadors. The Krewe encourages education by offering incentives to students to achieve goals.

This Mardi Gras Krewe is a “501 C3” nonprofit organization and owns three parade floats.  The largest one, where the captain rides, is named the Signature Float and is familiar to most for a statue of ARTEMIS graces the front.  There is a medium size Royalty Float and The Fun Float.  This float is usually decorated according to the theme of the parade and is ridden by members, guests, and sometimes children and grandchildren of the members.  Most years ARTEMIS floats can be seen representing the North Webster Parish area not only in Springhill, but in Magnolia, Arkansas, and Minden, Bossier City and Shreveport, Louisiana.  One year, Artemis traveled to South Louisiana, to participate in a Mamou parade.  One can never tell when ARTEMIS will appear.

In 2009, the Krewe purchased their Den at 25 Bice Street in Springhill where the Krewe meets the first Thursday of every month at 6:00 P.M.  If you are 18 years of age or older, you may fill out an application that will be submitted to the membership committee for review.  Any Artemis member in good standing can provide you with an application or you may write The Krewe of Artemis-Springhill, P. O. Box 1072, Springhill, LA 71075, or phone (318) 426-1232. You may see us on Face book:  Krewe of Artemis-Springhill.

Annual dues are $50; however, if you are thirty-five (35) years old or younger, the dues are only $35.  You are invited to come and visit any first Thursday evening and see what the Krewe of Artemis – Springhill is all about.

Lassez les bon temps rouler!

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Commentary after the death of Charlie Kirk, much of it harsh, vulgar, and ugly, has brought the issue of free speech sharply back into focus.  For that reason, I wanted to describe what freedom of speech in America is and means.

We must first remember that the Constitution generally, and the 1st Amendment specifically, are a restraint on Congress, on government, at every level. The relevant part of the 1st Amendment states that “Congress shall make no law … abridging the freedom of speech.”  As such, the 1st Amendment is only a restraint on government suppressing or censoring speech.

Let’s address the public/government speech scenario first.

If an individual, for example, is a public-school teacher or other public employee, they maintain free speech rights, but those rights are more limited because they are a government employee.  So, let’s say a local public-school teacher makes a negative or inflammatory comment on social media regarding the death of Charlie Kirk.  How could this be addressed by the school?

It’s a two-step analysis.  1). Was the teacher speaking as a private citizen and did the comment the teacher made concern a matter of national or public interest? If so, it is more likely to be protected speech.  However, the 2nd question is, even if the speech addresses a matter of national concern, is it so inflammatory or disruptive that it interferes with orderly school operations? (the main point of which is to educate the students).

So, let’s analyze two examples.  If the teacher posted a comment like “I completely disagree with how Charlie Kirk antagonized students on college campuses! It gives them poor self-esteem to be confronted in public in the manner he did and detracts from their academic and college experience. For that reason, I’m glad he’s gone!”  This comment addresses the issue of college education and the college learning environment and would likely be protected speech for a public-school teacher. 

What would likely not be protected speech is a comment posted by the same teacher (and there have been many like this) that “Charlie Kirk was racist, bigoted, and homophobic and I’m glad he’s dead! It’s a good use of a bullet.”  This second comment does not itself address a matter of public concern and is arguably inflammatory enough to undermine school operations.

Now, let’s switch our analysis to a private employer who has a private employee who publicly comments on the death of Charlie Kirk. Again, the 1st Amendment does not generally restrain private people or private employers so if an employee makes an ugly or inflammatory comment, the employer, the business owner, is free to fire the employee.  

As long as the firing of the employee is not based upon a prohibited discriminatory reason (like race, age, or gender discrimination), the owner is free to value company profitability over everything else and if he feels the business is put in a negative light by that employee’s comment, or it creates a hostile work environment, disrupts operations or violates company policy, he is free to fire the employee.

Finally, from a legal standpoint there is really no such thing as “hate speech.”  While the U.S. Supreme Court has held that states and cities may increase the criminal penalty for certain kinds of verbal threats or other assaults that constitute a “hate crime,” (which punishes actions motivated by bias, not speech) the speech itself cannot be prohibited by the government.  Our Constitution, emphatically, does not leave to government officials the decision about what speech is acceptable and what is not.  

However, freedom of speech is not absolute but the exceptions are very narrow and “hate speech” isn’t one of them. The Supreme Court has held, in defining when core political speech can be prohibited, that the government may only prohibit speech when the speech poses a “clear and present danger of imminent lawless action” like a riot. (Brandenburg). 

So, while many of the expressions of hate we have seen directed toward Charlie Kirk on social media may be deeply offensive and despicable, they can’t be prohibited by government up until the time they cause a riot or constitute a criminal threat.  Even then, the speech should only be halted long enough to quell the riot or threat and return law and order.

Again, the 1st Amendment primarily protects free speech from government censorship, not, as in the case of Jimmy Kimmel, a private corporation’s (ABC) economic decision.

(Shreveport attorney, Royal Alexander, worked in D.C. in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly 8 years for two different Members of Congress from Louisiana.  He has witnessed up close several Speaker races. He can be reached at RoyalAlexanderlawfirm@gmail.com .)

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Louisiana’s National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHFD) will be held Sept. 27 at four locations across the state, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced.

This includes Bodcau Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Haughton, and Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Monroe will host this year’s event, sponsored by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation.

NHFD is a fun and FREE family event for all ages! Attendees can try their skills at the shooting ranges, fishing ponds, and boating activities, and learn about wildlife with live animal demonstrations. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends.

While each location’s event varies, all include exhibits on LDWF’s research and conservation efforts, shooting and fishing demonstrations, and exhibits from local chapters of Ducks Unlimited, the Safari Club and the Coastal Conservation Association, as well as local businesses.

NHFD has become a tradition since its establishment in the early 1970s. Since then, every fourth Saturday in September is dedicated to Louisiana’s popular outdoor pastimes. LDWF introduced its first NHFD event in 1982 at the Monroe District Office, and in the following years, additional locations were added to its roster.

Bodcau WMA
Tom Merrill Recreation Area
914 Bodcau Dam Road
Haughton, LA 71037
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
318-478-0118
For more information, go to https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/nhfd.

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Tuesday

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. South wind around 5 mph.

Wednesday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Cloudy, with a high near 84. West wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Wednesday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Thursday

A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.

Thursday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 61.

Friday

Sunny, with a high near 84.

* Info provided by National Weather Service.

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

Sept. 25-30

Deadline to pick up SKELETOUR skeletons from Minden City Hall. Must register by Sept. 15.

Sept. 26

6:30-7:30 p.m., Brushwood Methodist Church of Dubberly will host a Revival.

Sept. 27

9 a.m. until … Minden Lions Club Fall Chicken Charbroil. Minden Walmart parking lot.

1:30 under 4:30 p.m. 2nd Big Annual 22 Hands-Up Food Fest Fundraiser. Doors open at 1 p.m., Minden Community House.

2 until 4 p.m. Taco Tips, American Legion Hall, Minden. Sponsored by We’re Here.

Webster Parish Fair Pageant:

9:30 a.m. Princess Pageant, Girls baby through 18 years, Minden High School Auditorium.

Queen Pageant: 5 p.m. Minden High School Auditorium.

Sept. 28

Brushwood Methodist Church of Dubberly will host a Revival.

Sept. 30

5 p.m. Webster Parish Fair Parade. Downtown Minden. See Fair Events separately.

Oct. 2

6 p.m. Lumberjack Festival Pageant, Sarepta Community Center.

Oct. 4

9 a.m. until? Sarepta Celebration Of Friends, former students, teachers and workers of Sarepta High School, Sarepta Community Center, 210 Vines Street off of Hwy. 2, behind Post Office,  

lunch $17 plus $1 for community room clean up. RSVP: 318-847-4270, by September 30.

Oct. 10

Community starts voting on SKELETOUR skeleton in downtown Minden businesses.

Oct. 11

9 a.m. Festivities begin for Lumberjack Festival in Springhill.

11 a.m., Lumberjack Festival Parade, downtown Springhill.

Oct. 17

CHANGE OF VENUE 5 until 8 p.m. BIG YEET, in concert, Springhill RV Park on Church Street, Springhill. Free admission to event.

Oct. 18

8 a.m. Registration for Baby Fun Run, Miller Quarters Park, Minden. 9 a.m. run begins.

Oct. 25

6 p.m. Haunted Hotel Homicide murder mystery, The Oak Cottage, 406 3rd St. WN, Springhill. Registration Required, text 318-272-6093.

Nov. 3

SKELETOUR winners announced.

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Amanda Sue Baxter, 45, 200 block Big Baxter Rd., Springhill: arrested Sept. 19 by WPSO on outstanding warrants. Bond set $2,500.

Bianca Helanthe Boston, 36, 1200 block Sibley Rd., Minden: arrested Sept. 20 by WPSO on warrant for failure to appear. Bond set $100.

Christopher B. Williamson, 40, 100 block Greenacres Rd., Springhill: arrested Sept. 20 by WPSO on warrant. Bond set $500.

Dustin W. Richardson, 31, Elm St., Springhill: arrested Sept. 20 by WPSO on warrant. Bond set $5,000.

Richard Joseph Weaver, 57, 100 block Wallace Lane, Minden: arrested Sept. 20 by Minden PD as fugitive from Bossier Parish SO. No bond set.

Dustin D. Johnson, 36, 4800 block Hwy. 155, Coushatta: arrested Sept. 20 by Louisiana State Police for DWI first offense, improper lane usage, open container, expired registration. No bond set.

Jarrod John Stoute, 39, 800 block Claiborne Ave., Minden: arrested Sept. 21 by Minden PD for domestic abuse battery. Bond set $750.

James D. Clement, 40, 725 Donavan Rd., Transylvania, LA: arrested Sept. 21 by Louisiana State Police for DWI first offense, careless operation. No bond set.

Paris Deniecea Ford, 20, 600 block Carolina St., Minden: arrested Sept. 21 by Minden PD on warrant for simple theft, false swearing for purpose of violating public health or safety, resisting an officer. No bond set.

Robert V. Triplett, Jr., 43, 200 block East Crestview, Minden: arrested Sept. 19 by Minden PD for possession of CDS Sch. IV (Clonazepam), possession of CDS Sch. III (Suboxone). Bond set $5,000.

Monique Rene Weathers, 37, 3300 block Pine Bluff Rd., Ringgold: arrested Sept. 19 by Sibley PD on warrant. No bond set.

Demetrius Miller, 40, 100 block East St., Minden: arrested Sept. 21 by Minden PD for possession of drug paraphernalia. Bond set $1,000.

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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Ray Dean Mazie
January 28, 1942 — September 21, 2025
Minden, La.
Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 23, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Graveside service: 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Gardens of Memory, Minden, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

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 Gray Haynes

On a hot night at The Pit in Minden, the North Webster Knights faced off against the Crimson Tide in the Battle for the Boot.  Annually, the game is sponsored by the Louisiana National Guard.  The two teams play for “The Boot” trophy.  Minden got to keep the boot last year and brought it with them to the game.  The Louisiana National Guard, led by recruiter for both schools, Hayden Frye, set up inflatable helmets for both teams and had recruiters and recruits around both sides.

The game was a tale of two halves.  Minden took the opening kickoff and ran the ball down the field.  They scored with 5:07 left in the first quarter after a near seven minute drive.  The extra point was good to make the score 7-0 Minden.  North Webster took the ensuing kickoff and matched the score.  The extra point was good to make the score seven all.  On their next possession, Minden scored on a long pass to make the score 14-7 in favor of the home team.  North Webster took the kickoff and marched down to the Minden 3 yard line.  On fourth and goal, from the 3, the Knights came up 6 inches short.  Minden ran out the final minute of the game to leave the score 14-7 at the half.  Both teams had only 2 possessions in the first half as ground attacks from the parish rivals kept the clock moving.

North Webster took the opening kickoff of the second half and drove the ball to midfield before giving up the ball on a fumble.  The Tide scored four plays later to make the score 20-7.  The point after touchdown came up short to leave the score 20-7.  The two teams swapped punts and turnovers until the clock showed 5:30 seconds left in the game.  The Knights took over at their own 40 yard line.  Justin Stewart completed a pass to the left to Jameson Harden for 13.  Stewart was, then, sacked before completing a pass for 48 yards and a touchdown to Braylon Washington.  The point after touchdown was good to make the score 20-14 in favor of the home team.  With three and half minutes left in the game, North Webster lined up for the onside kick.

The onside kick was recovered by Minden, but the Tide were flagged for offsides on the kickoff.  North Webster teed the ball up again and kicked deep.  With great kick coverage, Minden was pinned deep in their own territory at the 8 yard line.  On first down, North Webster linebacker, Jeremiah Washington, pierced the Minden line and downed the running back for a loss of five back to the 3.  Minden tried to get the ball out of the shadow of their own goalpost and faced a 3rd and 4 from their own 18.  The Knights defense swarmed and forced a punt.  After an errant snap on the punt, the kick was short and came to rest on the Tide 37 where the Knights faced 1st and ten, down by 6, with about two and half minutes left in the game.

On first down, a Stweart pass bounced off the hands of Harden right into the waiting hands of the Knight’s Dante Owens for a gain of 20.  As the clock continued to click down, Stewart scrambled for ten.  Then, JaMyrion Jackson took the ball down to the 6.  Then Jackson’s number was called again taking the ball to the 3.  With 50 seconds left in the game and no timeouts left, the Knights needed 3 yards to tie the game.  Stewart called his own number following senior offensive linemen, Hudson Smith and Preston Dyer.  He came up a little short on the first attempt, but the Knights ran the same play again and found paydirt with 10 seconds left in the game.  This touchdown tied the score at 20 with ten seconds left in the game.  The Knights lined up for the extra point to take the lead.  The snap from Gerritt Gillentine was good to holder, Hayden Nance.  Nance put it on the tee, and kicker, Christian Whitlock, split the uprights to give the Knights the lead 21-20 with ten ticks left on the clock.  The Knights covered the ensuing kickoff well and stopped the Tide and the last play of the game to win the game and bring home “The Boot.”

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By Travis Chapman

For week 3 of the 2025 season, the Apaches took a quick road trip down Highway 371 to The Metropolitan City of Ringgold where the Apaches “ringed” the Redskins, 53-32. To start the evening, Ringgold made a great field dedication to longtime coach and outstanding community patron, Coach Sherman Simon. The town of Ringgold dedicated September 18 as Coach Sherman Simon day as the Mayor of Ringgold read the official proclamation to the entire community. What a great thing for Ringgold!

Shortly after the pregame festivities, my partner in crime, Jerame Durden and I began the broadcast on KASO 1240 AM radio. We did not realize how talented and well prepared the Redskins were. The Redskins took the opening kickoff of the game and drove down the field with precision passing by the young QB and capped the drive with a rushing TD. The Redskins scored on their first possession in 5 plays. The Redskins recovered the ensuing onside kick. One the first play, The Redskins QB found their big receiver on a deep streak that went JUST over the fingertips of the Apache corner that went to the house for a 40-yard touchdown. The Apaches were behind quickly, 12-0.

The Apaches fell on the next onside kick. The Apaches’ offense took over on the short field and looked to make a big move, down early. Rowdy Reagan had the home run hitter, Carson Powell wide open on a quick slant with room to run, but the Redskin cornerback rushed in and knocked Powell off his route and to the ground, stepped in front of the pass and nearly returned it for a touchdown.

The Redskins’ QB threw one pass to the big receiver, who caught the ball in great coverage by the Apaches, and went untouched for another Redskins’ touchdown. The Redskins led 20-0 with 8:20 left in the first quarter. The Redskins came out swinging and knocked the Apaches on their heels to start the game early.

The next possession, the Apaches took over on their 41-yard line. Rowdy Ryan came out spinning it tight and completed a pass to The Dime-Hollingsworth for a gain of 7 yards. The Apaches found a groove up front where The Beast, Carson Whitehead took it 17 yards for a first down behind a great pull and blocking from The Strong Man-Nolan Still. The Apaches quickly threatened, and from 7 yards out, Hotrod-Holden Williams took it in for the first Apache touchdown. The Apaches recovered their onside kick and found a much-needed new momentum. After moving the ball straight up the middle, Rowdy Ryan made a great read on the option and picked up a quick 5-yards to set up The Beast, Whitehead who took it in for the Apaches’ score. The gap closed with a complete 2 point conversion, 20-16 with 3:15 left in the first.

Ringgold took over after pooch kick. The Apaches’ outstanding 8^th grader, Ace Ruthless-Rollen nearly missed a great interception. The next play, the Redskins’ QB rolled out and found the star receiver. The Redskin receiver made 6 Apaches miss as he scurried 60-yards for another Redskin touchdown. The score widened, 26-16 after Weston Duck blew through the line flattened the Redskin QB to stuff the 2 point conversion.

The Apaches took the field with great field position on the Redskin 45 and quickly faced a 3rd and medium as a costly block in the back brought back a big run by Rowdy Reagan. Hotrod Holden Williams picked up a big 4th down for the Apaches behind Colt Jellum to move the chains. On 3rd and short, Rowdy Reagan on a sprint out, found Golden Gage White for an Apache touchdown. Huddy Glasscock picked up the 2pt conversion. The score tightened with Ringgold up 26-24.

Ringgold took a great short pass for a first down. But the Apaches’ defense stiffened and a big tackle for loss by Colt Jellum on third down forced a 4th and 15 for the Redskins from the Apache 44. Apache senior Cold Connor Williams picked off the Redskin QB returned it 15 yards. Reagan rifled a ball to The Dime Hollingsworth for a first down. Shortly after the Apaches faced a 4th and cab ride with 49 seconds left in the half. The Apaches were forced to punt after illegal substitution backed the Apaches up out of the range to go for it. The Apaches’ defense backed the Redskins up on 2 plays. On the next play, something spectacular and terrible converged. The Redskins’ QB seemed to be sacked for a safety TWO different times, but somehow spectacularly kept his feet and took it 90 yards for a terrible touchdown after breaking 7 tackles … we counted. The Redskins went up 32-24 to close the first half. That would be the last score for the Redskins for the night.

During halftime, I’m sure the first-year head ball coach, Greg Tibbitt gathered some hind end to gnaw on after a less than stellar first half for the young Apaches. The Apache defense forced a sack for a giant loss by Bad-Bruce Bonnet. Colt Man on Fire-Jellum, who stayed in the Redskin backfield all night and narrowly missed at least 10 tackles for loss, made a great play to turn the ball over on downs. The Apaches’ offense still struggled and went straight backward with miscues and penalties and turned the ball over on downs. The Apache defense continued their second half dominance and made great plays. The Redskins faced 2nd and 20 from their own 29-yard line when the Apaches picked off the Redskins for the 2^nd interception of the night by Big D and I Don’t Mean Dallas, Davis Powell. Rowdy Ryan Reagan went to “Shakin and Bakin”… as he and The Beast Whitehead picked up two big first downs and 35 yards that quickly flipped the field. With an empty set, Rowdy punched it in for the Apache touchdown. Reagan called the same exact play and punched it in for the 2 point conversion. Tie ball game, 32 all. The Redskins took over on their own 41. The Apaches played great football where T-Bubba, Davis Edwards made a great break on the ball and nearly picked off the Redskins’ QB. The defensive line put great pressure on the center and forced two bad snaps where the Apaches took over on the 5 yard line after another Redskin turnover. The Strong Man-Still pulled and paved the way for The Beast Whitehead to march it in for his second score of the night. The Apaches held their first lead of the contest, 38-32 with 11:10 left.

The Redskins took over on their own 44. The Apache defense pushed the Redskins back and forced a punt. Rowdy Reagan made a great read option and picked up 20 yards. Then The Beast-Whitehead found a hole big enough to drive a Volkswagen through and blazed 60-yards down the field and nearly scored but was tripped up on the Redskin 10-yard line. Reagan found pay dirt on the QB keeper for another Apache TD. With a 2 point conversion, the score stretched to 46-32, with 6:16 left in the contest.

The Redskins took over on their 35-yard line and moved the ball down the field from a broken play and closely missed tackles. On the Redskins’ new set of downs, Crazy Conner Bolton baited the QB in and stepped in front of the big receiver to pluck the ball out of the air. Bolton nearly returned the interception for a touchdown but was tripped up. The Apaches took over on the Redskins 40-yard line and picked up two 1st downs with tandem running by Rowdy and Hotrod Williams. Hotrod was met at the goal line but bounced off would-be tacklers and punched it in for the final score of the night.

The Apaches started rough for the second week in a row, but good coaching and adjustments set the very young squad on the right path. From that point on, the Apaches went on to outscore the Redskins 53-12 after trailing 20-0. The coaching staff settled in the young team and taught them the lesson of battling through adversity. This was a great come-from-behind win for the Apaches against a very, very talented Redskin squad that can make anyone pay from anywhere on the field.

Next week, your Apache war party will travel to Ruston to take on long-time rival, Cedar Creek Cougars, at 7 p.m. If you cannot make the game in person, be sure to tune in for all the play-by-play action from Jerame Durden and I as we broadcast the game on 1240 KASO and KBEF.com. Let’s cheer the Apaches on to another victory. IT’S A GREAT DAY TO BE AN APACHE!!!

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Staff Report

PLAIN DEALING – The Lakeside Warriors defeated Plain Dealing 52-0 Friday night. 

The Warriors got a big night from freshman Jaden Clark and senior Ken Miller (two rushing touchdowns each) and seniors Brock Case and Noah Redding also had touchdowns for Lakeside. Adding scores in the second half were freshman Jayden Maxie and Jace Waller, each finding paydirt on the ground. 

The Warriors (2-1) will be back home to take on Northwood-Lena next week, who are fresh off a win over Pickering. 

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