By Bonnie Culverhouse

It was not a happy Fourth of July for one Minden man who is behind bars because one beer was just not enough.

Shalmichael Kyles, 44, of the 700 block of Peach Street, was arrested on a warrant of second-degree battery for an incident that occurred early in June.

Minden Police Chief Steve Cropper said his officers were dispatched to Minden Medical Center on June 7 in reference to an assault.

“Officers made contact with a female victim who told them she had taken her boyfriend, Shalmichael Kyles to a convenience store on Sibley Rd. to get him a beer,” Cropper said. “The victim purchased a single beer and when she went back to the vehicle, Kyles became very angry and began hitting her in the face, while en route to a location on Peach St.”

The victim reportedly told officers that once they arrived on Peach St., Kyles grabbed her hair, dragged her out of the vehicle and began beating her in the face.

“Once Kyles stopped beating her, she went to a friend’s house and was taken to MMC for treatment for injuries that caused swelling and bruising in her facial area,” said the chief. “Officers obtained a warrant and on July 4, Kyles was located and arrested.”

Kyles was reportedly booked at Minden Police Department and transported to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center under a $50,000 bond.

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Yesterday, Gov. John Bel Edwards and Continental Structural Plastics CEO Steve Rooney announced a $13.3 million expansion project at the company’s manufacturing facility in Sarepta, Louisiana. Also known as CSP, the company manufactures lightweight composite products for vehicles and industrial applications. CSP will invest $12.1 million in the project, and the North Webster Parish Industrial District will add $1.2 million for building improvements at its business park where the company is located.

The expansion will create 33 new direct jobs with an average annual salary of about $38,000, plus benefits. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in 32 new indirect jobs, for a total of 65 new jobs for Webster Parish and the Northwest Region. In addition, the project will retain 170 existing jobs and is expected to support 200 construction jobs.

“Continental Structural Plastics has found success in Sarepta, manufacturing quality products for the automotive industry and other end-users,” Gov. Edwards said. “Our local and regional economic development partners in Louisiana’s Northwest Region are working hard with us to sustain a strong business climate and promote business growth such as this. As CSP continues to excel, we welcome the jobs this project will create for our rural workforce in Webster Parish.”

The company’s plans for a 22,000-square-foot expansion to its three-building complex at the North Webster Parish Industrial Park will accommodate future manufacturing activity. Products made there by CSP include undercarriages, bumpers and other items for cars and trucks.

“Our Sarepta, Louisiana, facility is a model for our organization in terms of safety, our workforce and our efforts to automate our processes,” Rooney said. “As we evaluated our operations in terms of where to add capacity, expanding this facility, implementing additional automated cells and providing additional quality jobs to the Sarepta community was the logical choice. We have an incredible, dedicated workforce in Sarepta, and when you add to that the tremendous partnership we have with the local community and the North Webster Parish Industrial District, it really is a win-win for CSP and the community.”

To secure the project, the State of Louisiana offered a competitive incentive package that includes the comprehensive workforce solutions of LED FastStart® – the nation’s No. 1 state workforce development program for the past 11 years. In addition, CSP will be eligible for a performance-based grant of up to $600,000 to offset infrastructure costs related to the expansion. The company is also expected to utilize Louisiana’s Enterprise Zone and Industrial Tax Exemption programs.

“We welcome the multi-million-dollar investment that Continental Structural Plastics has decided to make here,” said Randy Sexton, chairman of the North Webster Parish Industrial District board. “We certainly are looking forward to the 33 new job openings that this project will create. It’s always an exciting time for our community when we can be a part of this kind of growth.”

“Continental Structural Plastics’ additional investment and job creation in the Sarepta community is a testimony to North Louisiana’s steadfast workforce and strong business climate,” said Justyn Dixon, president of the North Louisiana Economic Partnership. “North Louisiana Economic Partnership has worked alongside CSP to provide strategic assistance each step of the way throughout this project and is proud to support the company’s expansion.”

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By Josh Beavers

The second of two Dixie All-Star tournaments begins today in Minden.

The 12U tourney features teams from across the area, all playing for a chance at making it to the state tournament later this month. First up for our local team is a 6 p.m. game this evening against Benton. The contest will be decided on Field 9 at the Minden Rec.

This weekend’s tournament follows on the heels of last week’s event which brought in valuable dollars to the local economy. The Journal spoke to Minden Mayor Terry Gardner and Recreation Director Rocke Musgraves about the importance of these events to the City of Minden and surrounding communities.

The Journal: How do tournaments like this help Minden?

Mayor Gardner: First of all they bring visitors to Minden so they can see what a beautiful town we have. They also stay at our hotels, campgrounds, and bed and breakfast locations which in turn brings dollars because of dining out and shopping.

Rocke: Besides the economic impact visitors have on Minden, I think it creates a better sporting experience for our local citizens when they get to compete against other towns/areas. There are many positive by-products created when our local citizens compete against other communities – civic pride and a sense of community to name a few.

The Journal, to Rocke: Statistics bear out that young people who participate in quality sports programs develop strong character traits. How does that benefit the community?

Rocke: When done within proper financial constraints, quality sports programs can give back to the community exponentially in the form of local pride, youth character development, and in some cases can create financial opportunities.

The Journal: Why do organizations like to use our facilities for their tournaments?

Mayor Gardner: I believe other travel ball teams and groups enjoy using our fields, buildings etc, because we always try to put our best foot forward, and our concessions are over the top when it comes to eating ballpark food. We can host large numbers of teams and spectators with our abundant parking, large open spaces, and large number of fields.

Rocke: Our Rec Center is considered a quality venue for tournaments because of the number and quality of fields. As far as facilities with natural turf and dirt fields, there are none better than THE REC in Minden.

The Journal, to Mayor Gardner: How do tournaments like this help Minden?

Mayor Gardner: Visitors commerce is up in taxes 55.29% last month and a lot of that would be overnight stays because of ball games. Also sales tax has been up and some of that is due to purchases while groups are in town.

The Journal, to Rocke: We have seen many different types of events at THE REC including, but not limited to: softball, baseball, soccer, basketball, karate, and football tournaments. These tournaments have provided great opportunities for our youth and adults to participate against strong competition. Different avenues for generating revenue exist within each of these events, such as gate receipts, concession sales, facility rentals, and local tax collections through people spending money in Minden. What do you see as the future for the Rec?

Rocke: You will probably see some changes in our youth sports programs with the advent of “Travel Ball.” We are looking at being more inclusive with these groups so we can get all the kids in this area competing and recreating through THE REC. We believe this will create a stronger Minden and bring people together. There seems to be so many things fragmenting our society; hopefully THE REC can be an entity to bring people back together.

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Frankie Lane Ford Jr., no age available, of Homer, was arrested by Webster Parish deputies on two warrants. Deputies investigating a one-vehicle crash discovered the outstanding warrants and took Ford into custody.

Harvey Morazell Major, 39, of the 900 block of Watterman St., Minden, was arrested by Minden Police and charged with resisting an officer and possession of Sch. I synthetic Marijuana.

Lacresha Alfred, 38, of Homer, was arrested by deputies for domestic abuse battery and criminal mischief after she was stopped for speeding. She was transported to Claiborne Parish for booking.

Megan Holly Carlisle, no age available, of Haughton, was arrested as a fugitive from Claiborne Parish on charges of driving while intoxicated with a minor.

Shannon Keith Boyd Jr., 24, of the 1400 block of 7th Street SE, Springhill, was arrested by Springhill police for simple burglary, felony theft and monetary instrument abuse. He is being held on bonds totaling $40,000.

Rocky Don Young, 33, of the 16,000 block of Hwy. 79, Minden, was arrested by WPSO deputies for domestic abuse battery.

Drodrick Florence, 21, of the 200 block of 3rd Street NW, Springhill, was arrested by Springhill Police for possession with intent to distribute Sch. I Marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of Sch. III Tylenol 3 without a prescription.

Cody J. Mellen, 25, of the 1300 block of Diamond T Rd., Heflin, was arrested by WPSO deputies for domestic abuse battery by strangulation.

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By Josh Beavers

Bonding is an important part of any team, organization, or other group that hopes to function as a team. That’s why it was important for the Lakeside cheer squad to gain a little fellowship away from school on a group trip down to Natchitoches.

Earlier this summer, cheer sponsors Madalyn Culpepper and Carrie Woodard, took the squad to cheer camp at Northwestern State University. After the camp, Culpepper arranged a tour of Gator Country Louisiana.

“We wanted a fun activity for the girls to do after camp,” Culpepper told The Journal. “When we arrived we went to a feeding show. A worker told us all about alligators in Louisiana, feeding habits, and safety. We then went to the wade pool to hold year-old gators, went to the reptile house to snakes, fed emu’s/goats/tortoises/deer, and we also rented poles to feed alligators all around the park.”

Culpepper, a Lakeside science teacher, said the trip was a chance for the squad to do something not cheer related and also have an environmental science lesson without realizing it.

“They laughed and even helped some overcome some fears of holding snakes,” she said. “In the end, there’s nothing more important than It was a lot of fun getting to see the girls bond and have fun outside of school and cheer.”

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By Josh Beavers

Tradition is the one word North Webster head coach John Ware uses most often when discussing his team’s football schedule this fall.

“You look at who we play and there are a ton of traditionally good teams and a lot of rivalries there for us,” Ware told The Journal during a phone interview Wednesday afternoon.

The Knights are in District 1-3A and play 10 times this fall. There are only three away games.

The schedule for North Webster, along with Ware’s thoughts:

Game 1 (9-3) Haynesville

“This rivalry is one of the oldest ones in the state of Louisiana. It’s kind of a friendly rivalry that goes back to the Springhill Lumberjack days. We didn’t get to play last year due to COVID, so we don’t know a whole lot about them yet. But it is always a great matchup.”

Game 2 (9-10) North Caddo

“They have a couple big time players who are SEC recruits [Omarion Miller and Kelvin Black]. This is the first time we have played them, and it’s interesting to me because of my personal history.” Ware was North Caddo head coach from 2009-2011.

Game 3 (9-17) at Minden

“This is a huge rivalry and they have been very good the last few years. They were a quarterfinal team [in 4A] last year. They always have big and physical skill people. It’s always a fun game that is usually close.”

Game 4: (9-24) Jena

“I’m looking forward to this one. They have been ranked in the Top 10 every year the last few years, and we’ve never run into them in the playoffs. It’s good we are getting a chance to meet them in the regular season and are getting to have a go at them.”

Game 5: (10-1) Jonesboro-Hodge

“Jonesboro-Hodge is a traditional powerhouse. They’ve been up and down the last few years. This is a one-year game, and we don’t know a lot about them yet. But like I said earlier, the schedule is full of traditionally strong teams.”

Game 6: (10-8) Bossier

“They’ve got a new head coach [former Grambling star De’Aumante Johnson], so they will likely not be running the WingT for the first time in 20 years. It’ll be interesting to get a look at their new offensive concepts. I imagine it will be a spread concept.”

Game 7: (10-15) Lakeside

“Lakeside is an up and comer. I see good things coming from them in the future. Plus this is a game in our parish, and any time you are playing somebody in your own parish it is always fun and good for us. They return good players.”

Game 8 (10-22) at Loyola

“This is always a great matchup; we always have great games. They have a new head coach as well [Scott Mallien]. We won a thriller in overtime last year, so they are going to be looking for a little payback. It’s a great program, and we always have fun playing against them.”

Game 9 (10-29) at Mansfield

“Always a tough team and a tough place to play. They beat us last year and bring a lot back this year. It’s always a really tough matchup. They have been very good the last several years.”

Game 10 (11-5) Green Oaks

“They were loaded last year and have a lot coming back this year. They are another school with SEC recruits [DeColdest Crawford and Jaden Moore], and they are very good. They probably have a leg up in the district.”

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Ouida Francine Dawe
November 26, 1936 – May 19, 2021
Service: Monday, July 12, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Open Range Fellowship Church in Greenwood, Louisiana

Timothy Joseph Miller
May 9, 1959 – June 29, 2021
Visitation:  Thursday, July 8, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana.
Service:  A private family graveside service will be held.

Tammy Renee Young
October 20, 1959 – July 7, 2021
Visitation:  1:00 p.m. until service time.
Service:  Sunday, July 11, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City, Louisiana. A 

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The traffic control light at the Dixie Inn intersection (Hwy 80 & 371) will be out Wednesday, July 7, beginning at around 9 a.m. and lasting for about two hours. Per Louisiana law, anytime a traffic control light is out, the intersection becomes a 4-way stop. 4-way stop signs will be out to help remind everyone. Please drive safe and be patient and thank you for your cooperation.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Sentencing for Michael Wayne Duck, 54, of Webster Parish, has been delayed due to the death of a family member of Judge Michael Craig.

According to a court official, Duck, who was found guilty on one count of first-degree rape of a child under 13 years of age and one count of second-degree rape, must have sentencing passed by the judge presiding over his trial.

Sentencing was scheduled for Wednesday, July 7. A new date and time have not yet been set.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Patriotic prayer is one of the strongest in the world, according to Former Dist. 36 State Sen. Ryan Gatti.

“When we think about patriotism, we think about how much we love our country,” Gatti told a large group gathered at Eagle Park by Turner’s Pond on Lewisville Road Saturday morning. “Three hundred and sixty-five times in the Bible, God says ‘Fear not.’ Fear is not a part of being a patriot.”

Patriotism comes from our patriarchs, he pointed out.

“Some people don’t want you to praise God on a day like this,” Gatti said. “The power of prayer a patriot possesses is wonderful … it’s extreme. God hears the prayers of the patriot because of the sacrifices they have made.”

Abraham, Moses and Noah prayed for their people, rather than their country because that is the calling of a patriarch, he said.

“Pray, pray for your fellow man, especially the ones you think are tearing the country apart,” Gatti said. “As long as our flag waves, freedom is available and salvation can be spoken about in churches. As long as these flags fly, patriots have a conduit to God. Pray for the people you think are lost. God listens to the prayer of the patriot.”

The celebration, sponsored by Wiley Pevy Post 74 American Legion, concluded with the changing of the flags over Eagle Park – one representing each branch of the military service, as well as the POW/MIA flag and the American flag. At the end, ‘Taps’ was played by Charles Waters.

Photos by Bonnie Culverhouse

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

For five years Sibley Mayor Jimmy Williams has been working toward a dream for the citizens of his town.

Thursday evening, that dream came to fruition with the opening of Sibley’s Splash Pad, located behind Sibley Town Hall.

“Every year, I put a certain amount in the budget under ‘parks’, and we’d buy equipment here and there,” Williams said. “We got pretty close to what it was going to take, and then some generous citizens got us the rest of the way.”

Williams was talking specifically about Glenn Warren, with CW&W, Kyle Swain and Jack and Don Tharpe.

“Thanks to them, we were able to complete it,” Williams said. “Glenn Warren saw it as a good project, and he built a lot of it.”

Williams said all the comments he’s heard have been very positive.

“It shouldn’t be that our kids have to go to Bossier, Haughton or Minden to have something to do,” he said. “It’s been a great success, and I’m proud of it.”

Williams said there is more to do. A canopy is coming at the end of the month, but the long-range plan is to “regroup, try to get some grants and build a playground beside it,” he said.

Total cost of the splash pad was around $75,000, Williams said. The playground may come in at close to $100,000, if they build a small one.

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Alexander Gonzolez, 23, of the 1500 block of Shreveport Rd., Minden, was arrested on two outstanding bench warrants.

Pamela Autry, 39, of the 100 block of N. Middle Landing, Minden, was arrested on a criminal warrant for theft.

James Roton Jr., 47, of the 600 block of Doc Steed Rd., was arrested on two outstanding warrants.

Knijadia Washington, 22, of the 100 block of Squire St., Minden, was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Amelia Coleman, 28, of the 600 block of Leary St., Minden, was arrested for two outstanding warrants.

Anitra Coleman, 22, of the 600 block of Leary St., Minden, was arrested on a warrant for simple battery.

Ronnie Hemphill, 32, of the 200 block of Cadillac St., Minden, was arrested on three outstanding warrants.

Lorenzo Harris, 31, of the 700 block of Sibley Rd., was arrested for disturbing the peace.

Dmairus Gill, 30, of the 1400 block of Harper Rd., was arrested for driving under suspension.

Rickie Seamster Jr., no age available, of the 1200 block of Bonnie Ln., Minden, was arrested for domestic abuse battery.

Terrance Rhodes, 41, of the 1300 block of Sheppard St., Minden, was arrested on a bench warrant for open container.

James Hammond, 57, of Park Highway in Minden, was arrested on a bench warrant served at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.

Michael Johnson, 46, of the 300 block of Lee St., Minden, was arrested on a bench warrant served at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.

Kristal Gail Bolyer, 45, of the 1300 block of Dorcheat Rd., Minden, was arrested by WPSO deputies on a civil bench warrant.

Crystal Chatman, 30, of the 1500 block of Fuller Rd., Minden, was arrested by Minden Police for theft, after allegedly stealing more than $30 worth of merchandise from Family Dollar.

Dexter Maurice Morris, 42, of Cotton Valley, was arrested by CVPD for theft of a lawn mower and resisting an officer.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center inmate is back behind bars after walking away from the work release program.

Matthew Wayne Hay, 36, of the 1400 block of Franklin Rd., Heflin, is charged with simple escape after leaving his job at Smith Marine without permission.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said last Wednesday, around 1:30 p.m., Hay’s girlfriend arrived at the business and picked up Hay in her vehicle.

“Later, Minden Police Officer Kendale Booker observed Hay driving his girlfriend’s vehicle on Lee St.,” Parker said. “The officer initiated a traffic stop for failure to wear a seatbelt, failure to use a turn signal and obstruction of view.

“While on the traffic stop, Off. Booker observed a .380 pistol in the center console and a case of beer in the backseat,” the sheriff continued. “He also observed an open can of beer on the floorboard on the passenger side of the vehicle.”

Off. Booker reportedly learned that Hay is currently incarcerated and contacted Work Release Director Randy Culpepper. He was taken to Minden Police Department and collected by a WPSO deputy who transported Hay back to BDCC.

“Hay had a strong odor of alcohol coming from his person,” Parker said. “A handheld breathalyzer was used and Hay’s results were .097G %. Hay admitted to having two beers, and also that he was never given permission to leave his work release job, which he allegedly has done a few times before.”

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A Webster Parish man, found guilty of rape charges, will face sentencing Wednesday, July 7.

After three hours of deliberation, a 12-person jury found Michael W. Duck, 54, guilty of one count of first-degree rape of a child under 13 years of age and one count of second-degree rape.

He was remanded to the custody of the sheriff awaiting an investigation, which was scheduled to be concluded before sentencing by Judge Michael Craig.

“The judge wants to know prior criminal history,” Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said. “He wants as much information about his background before sentencing. This man doesn’t have a lot in his background, so there won’t be much to investigate.

“I think justice was served,” he added.

The sentence for first-degree rape is a mandatory life sentence. Duck faces up to an additional 30 years for the charge of second-degree rape. He was represented by Eric Johnson and Eric Whitehead of the Johnson Law Firm.

Duck was arrested in 2016, following an extensive investigation by the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office when one of the minor victims contacted the WPSO and reported that her stepfather had been sexually assaulting her.

During the course of the investigation, multiple other family members revealed they were also sexually assaulted by Duck.

The jury heard testimony from Detective Teresa Rogers and Detective Heather Boucher, both experts in the fields of clinical psychology, DNA analysis and sexual assault examinations as well as from multiple other victims who came forward during the investigation.

The cases allegedly took place in the Sarepta area, according to Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Jimbo Yocom and Hugo Holland. District Attorney Schuyler Marvin thanked the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office for their hard work and dedication finding justice for these young children.

“It is the height of evil that Michael Duck would stand before you and ask that you find him innocent when innocence is the very thing he stole from these young children,” Assistant District Attorney Jimbo Yocom told jurors.

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Lots of kids spend summer break indoors on video games, outside in the water, or earning a little extra cash via a part-time job. But Levi DeHart isn’t like most other kids, and while they are whiling away the hours, he is actively competing against other competitors from across the nation in rodeo events.

Levi, who is 12 and entering seventh grade at North Webster Junior High, is in Oklahoma this week competing in the National Little Britches Rodeo Association (NLBRA) Finals.

“As a mom the best part is the character rodeo creates in kids,” said Brandi DeHart, Levi’s mom. She spoke to The Journal via Facebook Live from Oklahoma. “The drive that Levi has for rodeo amazes me. I never have to tell him to practice; I never have to make sure his gear is together. He’s early and knows when and where to be and at what time. When we head out to a rodeo Levi says,’let’s go, everything is loaded’.”

Everything includes horses, saddles, gear, hats, boots and “whatever is coming to that particular rodeo. Levi has it loaded.”

Brandi describes her child as humble and dedicated. “He never complains. We just came in from a 12-hour-drive, and the first thing Levi did when we got home was practice.” He then went on to clean stalls, ride his horse and take care of his 4-H pigs. “Rodeo keeps Levi humble. He’s learned how to deal with wins and loses all while keeping the right attitude. He knows there’s another rodeo and another chance to do his best.”

Levi began his rodeo career at only nine years of age. He cut his teeth in the Southwest Arkansas High School Rodeo Association. In addition to qualifying in the NLBRA event, Levi also qualified for the 2021 National Junior High Rodeo finals in bareback steer riding.

For the 2020-2021 year, Levi placed in the state Top 5 in that same event. From the state finals, Levi qualified for the national finals in Iowa. That competition is considered by industry insiders and enthusiasts of the sport as being the best of the best.

“It is one of the largest rodeos with 46 states,Canada and Mexico competing for money, buckles, saddles and scholarships,” Brandi DeHart said. “Levi Made a qualifying ride in the first go. In the second go, Levi needed four tenths of a second to make a second qualifying ride.”

He came up just short of the championship round, but let’s not forget the young man was a sixth grader in his first competition at such a high level.

Check back with the Journal next week. We will have an update on how Levi fared in the NLBRA Finals. The event ends Sunday.

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By Josh Beavers

Two Minden teams were in action over the weekend during the annual Dixie Youth All-Stars tournaments. Unfortunately, both squads came up short in bids to make it to the state tourneys slated for later this month.

Our local Recreation Complex played host to the 10U Triple A District tourney while Shreveport hosted the AA Coach Pitch Tournament. Eight teams were in town for the 10U Triple A tournament.

In 10U action, Minden stumbled in the first game and lost against the Shreveport Nationals. On Saturday morning, the local boys rallied to defeat Union Parish by a score of 8-5, but that night Minden lost in an elimination match against Blanchard. The defeat knocked Minden out of the tournament and ended the season for our local boys.

Coach Kent Staggs said bright spots for Minden included Colton Cooper’s excellent pitching in the second game. Tate Lowe also pitched well. Mikie Parker got two hits and an inside-the-park home run. John Hollas Robinson struck out seven in his game. Other excellent performers included Kingston Harris.

Over to the west in Caddo Parish, the 8U AA Coach Pitch Tournament was the scene of a marathon stretch of games for the Minden boys. All totaled, Minden played in nine games during the tournament and narrowly missed making it to state competition.

Bossier defeated Minden by a single run (11-10) to take the final spot in the state field.

Coach Clint Powell said he could not be more proud of the way the team played and responded to so many games in such a short period of time.

“Most of these boys had never played two games in a single day, but on Saturday we played five,” Powell told The Journal during a phone interview on Monday afternoon. “They showed a lot of poise to go as far as they did in the tourney.”

Powell said the squad was young, composed of an equal number of seven- and eight-year-olds, whereas most other participants fielded teams exclusively consisting of eight-year-olds.

“Eleven out of 12 of our kids had never played travel ball,” the coach told The Journal. “The other teams were used to what went on. Our boys should be congratulated for giving it their all and making it as far as they did.”

Standouts for Minden included Jayden and Jordan Hartwell, a pair of twin outfielders, as well as shortstop Ryder Hollingsworth. Also earning special recognition was Bentley Nealy who was a consistent hitter and made plays in the field.

State tournaments for six Minden teams begin later this month. One more event is slated at the district level, and it’s being held right here in Minden. The 12U O-Zone tourney begins Thursday.

Check The Journal every Tuesday and Thursday for All-Star recaps and previews of upcoming action.

PHOTO: The 8U Minden All-Stars played nine games in three days over the July 4 weekend. A one-run loss to Bossier denied Minden a spot in the state tournament.

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By Regan Edwards and WPJ Staff

There’s ample advantages to Glenbrook School’s move into the Louisiana High School Athletic Association, after being in the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools for many years.

That doesn’t mean there’s across-the-board agreement among the Glenbrook community.

Yes, there’s no question that travel costs for teams will be greatly reduced.

Yes, there’s no doubt that area interest, and perhaps support and enrollment, in Glenbrook will be ramped up because the Apaches are playing nearby schools in Haynesville, Homer, Arcadia, Bossier City and many other surrounding communities – including, hopefully, the Webster Parish public schools.

Yes, playing those schools should significantly increase gate receipts at home games.

Yes, the chances are soaring of Glenbrook teams’ highlights showing up on Shreveport TV stations, and on other media platforms such as the wildly-popular Tim Fletcher Show on KWKH-AM radio each weekday morning. Having high-profile coaches David Feaster (athletic director/football, former highly-successful coach at Minden, Parkway and Many, among other stops) and Cheryl Ford (girls’ basketball, former WNBA star) ramps up the media appeal in the Shreveport market.

But the unknown is hard to swallow for more than a few former players, alumni and supporters contacted by the Webster Parish Journal. Nobody wanted to be quoted, but there’s certainly plenty of concern about the LHSAA move.

The MAIS is all Glenbrook alumni and supporters have ever known. Nearly every rivalry will end, and new ones will take time to develop.

The Glenbrook teams will not be eligible for the playoffs in the 2021-22 school year as the school completes a probationary period required of all incoming LHSAA members. The Glenbrook baseball program, MAIS champions in May, will not reach postseason next spring.

There’s a lot of doubt expressed, privately, by some who worry that Glenbrook teams will not measure up competitively to their LHSAA neighbors, and scoreboards will show it.

There are some who prefer not to take the field against the public schools at all.

There are some who fear that the local public schools will not want to play Glenbrook because of a perception that the Apaches, being a private school, could effectively recruit and bring in talented athletes from outside the school’s traditional Minden-area base.

Spinning off that suggestion, there are those who wonder if, in fact, Glenbrook will follow in the footsteps of Shreveport’s Evangel and Calvary Baptist in Bossier City, private schools that have certainly broadened enrollment access resulting in great athletic success. If that develops, some speculate it could happen at the expense of some of the young people who have been advancing at Glenbrook to take their presumed places in lineups of Apache teams in 2022 and beyond.

Glenbrook’s leadership carefully weighed the options before choosing to make the move. Along with travel costs was the reality that some MAIS schools were switching to eight-man football to save costs and deal with enrollment declines, which created schedule challenges and much more travel for the Apaches, who are committed to playing standard 11-man football.

The WPJ welcomes comments from anyone who cares to share their perspective on this hot-button issue that is simmering below the radar around Glenbrook this summer.

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By Josh Beavers

Two weeks ago, the Journal sat down for an interview with Lakeside softball coaches Roo Johnson and Emily Maness. The focus of that story was to see what made the athletic programs down in Sibley go round and to also highlight something unique in local school sports. There are five separate teams helmed by female head coaches. That’s a remarkable achievement at any level much less a school with a high school enrollment of less than 300.

Today the Journal publishes the second part of our series that poses questions to these women about the importance of sports programs and the unique difference between a male coach and a female coach when it comes to mentoring young women in athletic competitions.

Next up is Rendi Dillard (high school girls basketball) and Fabrecia Roberson, who coaches girls track and field and the newest athletic program – powerlifting.

The Journal: What do you love about coaching and teaching at Lakeside?

Dillard: Lakeside is a wonderful place to work due to the culture that has been created there. Having pride in everything you do is an important concept to me, and that is something that is being pushed there daily.

Roberson: The Lakeside faculty and staff are like one big family. That makes coming to work everyday easy when you work alongside people you enjoy being around. Coaching has been great because of the support of the administration. That is something that was an immediate positive for me being here. Mr. [Lakeside principal Denny] Finley and his staff do a great job backing their coaches and helping them in any way they can.

The Journal: What is your hope for the athletic programs in the future?

Dillard: The future is about success but not just in terms of winning seasons. Success in the sense of getting more females involved in athletics. In the near future we envision girls beating down the doors to be a part of our teams. I would love it if we had to have try-outs because we had too many girls wanting to participate.

Roberson: I hope that one day in the near future, the athletic programs at Lakeside will be forces to be reckoned with in this area and the state. Lakeside (Sibley High) has a rich history of excelling in sports, I hope that we can get back to that soon.

The Journal: Lakeside is unique in the fact we are a small school but have several female coaches. Do you think female athletes relate better to you than they would a male coach? Why?

Dilard: Yes, nothing against our male coaches but I think the fact that we have several female coaches is a huge advantage for female athletics at Lakeside. In certain situations I do think that the girls relate better to female coaches. We understand things about girls that a male coach may not understand quite as well.

Roberson: We also understand how important it is to advocate for girls athletics in general. Having several female coaches that get along and can work together for all female sports, not just the one they are coaching, is a huge advantage and you will begin to see great things happen.

The Journal: Why do you love coaching in general? What made you want to become a coach?

Dillard: I love coaching because I love making a difference in young people’s lives. As a coach you are competitive and love to win. You love trying to be the best and inspire the best. You love watching those athletes master a skill and show confidence on and off the court. However to me, the biggest win is watching the kids grow and become great people. People who understand teamwork and what it takes to work hard and set a goal. And then reach that goal. Sports teaches you so many lessons that have nothing to do with that sport in general. They are lessons that can be used in many areas in your life after you have long walked away from that court or field.

Roberson: I love to help people. When I attended school at Sibley HS, there were so many people in the community (my teachers included) that helped and supported me through my career. I want to be able to return the favor and give back to my community by helping the next child succeed.

Look for more stories about Webster Parish athletics in the weeks ahead.

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Ouida Francine Dawe
November 26, 1936 – May 19, 2021
Service: Monday, July 12, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Open Range Fellowship Church in Greenwood, Louisiana

Timothy Joseph Miller
May 9, 1959 – June 29, 2021
Visitation:  Thursday, July 8, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana.
Service:  A private family graveside service will be held.

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Main Street from Pine Street  to Union Street
Pearl Street from Green Street to Broadway Street

Roads will be closed today (Friday) July 2, 2021 starting at 7am to 10pm

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Minden Police are still working around seven men short, but Chief Steve Cropper wants to be sure his officers are rewarded when they deserve it.

On the agenda for Tuesday’s meeting of the Minden City Council, are requests for two police department promotions: officers Reese Tewell and Christopher Cayer to the rank of Officer First Class.

Cropper said in April, Cayer and Tewell were given the Fire and Police Civil Service Board Police First class examination test and scored well above the needed percentile.

The council will meet 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 6, rather than Monday, due to the July 4 holiday.

In other business, the council will consider the following:

• Reappointment of General Leonard Miller to the Minden Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Board;
• Condemned properties;
• Selection of the Official Journal;
• An extension of 30 days for the yearly audit by Wise, Martin & Cole;
• Adopt a resolution declaring three transformers as surplus property;
• Award a bid for 2021 street improvement projects;
• Hear the budget/financial report for May, 2021; and,
• Hear the police report for May, 2021.

The council meets in Council Chambers at Minden City Hall. Seating is limited, but the public is invited to attend.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Food trucks are returning in popularity, and never more so than when hungry lunch-time employees could not sit down in a restaurant to enjoy a meal due to the pandemic.

With that in mind, Economic Development Director Phillip Smart has proposed an ordinance to the Minden City Council that will include “Mobile Food Vendors.”

The ordinance reads: “Subject to restrictions and limitations set forth in this ordinance, food trucks may operate in parking spaces within the public right-of-way (amended to read public property) on city owned property at locations and times as may be approved by the City Inspection Department in primary control of such property, and in such other areas as may be permitted by the city’s zoning ordinance, paying a food truck fee and having an occupational license. Provided, that food trucks may not operate on the public right-of-way within 100 (amended to 50) feet of the primary entrance of any type of restaurant located within a permanent structure or building.”

During a Minden City Council workshop, Smart lined out the specific regulations that will apply for public or private property.

“If a food truck is on private property, it still must follow certain guidelines,” Smart said.

“They have to have a permit, so they must meet certain requirements before they can get an occupational license from the city,” Mayor Terry Gardner added. “Just like in a standard restaurant. You won’t see health certificate in here because they already must have one to get the occupational license.”

Another requirement is a food truck sticker.

“That’s so if they want to do events or different things on public property, they will have to get a sticker and renew it each month,” Smart said. “Cost is just like an occupational license, it’s based on the business.”

City attorney Jimbo Yocum explained the sticker as de facto rent for a specific spot.

“We are charging them to be on public property,” he said.

A flat fee of $25 per month will help the city when cleaning up after events where the food trucks have a presence. However, Gardner said it does not allow the trucks to pull up on public property any time and start selling food.

“We want them here,” Gardner said. “We’re not trying to run them off.”

Smart said when the truck owners receive their occupational license, they will also receive a list of spots where they can set up.

“There is a fine ($300) in the ordinance, if the truck owners do not adhere to the law,” Smart said. “That gives it teeth. The police will be the ones to enforce it.”

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Staff Report

Downtown Minden will be the scene of The Greater Minden Chamber’s 3rd Annual Fourth of July Duck Derby Extravaganza. All the fun starts at 5 p.m. Friday, July 2,on Main Street. Race Time is at 6 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Greater Minden Chamber’s community programs.

Sponsorship Opportunities for Chamber Members

Firework Sponsor: $3000 (1 Available)

• 1 Flock of ducks (25 ducks)
• Designated area to set up booth at event
• Exclusive recognition on the Chamber LED sign; Top logo billing in all advanced outlets; Top logo billing on chamber website and chamber E-newsletter that is sent out to over 700 Chamber partner emails; Recognition on Chamber’s social media pages.
• Special recognition at event.
• Photo opportunity to present cash prizes

Duck Sponsor: $1000 (1 Available) Minden Family Dental

• 1 Quacker’s Dozen of ducks (12 ducks)
• Designated area to set up booth at event
• Recognition on chamber website and chamber E-newsletter that is sent out to over 700 Chamber partner emails; Recognition on Chamber’s social media pages.

Pond Sponsor: $500 (10 Available)

• 1 Quack Pack of ducks (5 ducks)
• Designated area to set up booth at event
• Recognition on chamber website and chamber E-newsletter that is sent out to over 700 Chamber partner emails; Recognition on Chamber’s social media pages.

Social Sponsor: $500 SOLD OUT! Wimberly Agency & Mike’s Hometown Spirits

• 1 Quack Pack ducks (5 ducks)
• Premium advertising on a 4’x8’ Banner at event
• Recognition on chamber website and chamber E-newsletter that is sent out to over 700 Chamber partner emails; Recognition on Chamber’s social media pages.

Duckling Sponsor: $300 (10 Available)

• 2 Racing ducks
• Recognition on Chamber’s social media pages

Email Jana Morgan at president@mindenchamber.com to secure sponsorship opportunities.

Purchase Ducks

• 1 Racing Duck (1): $5
• Quack Pack (5): $20
• Quacker’s Dozen (12): $50
• Flock of Ducks (25): $100

Purchase Ducks: https://greatermindenchamber.com/product-category/community-program-support/

Cash Prizes

1st Place – $1000 Cash
2nd Place – $500 Cash
3rd Place – $250 Cash

You do not need to be present to win.

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