By Bonnie Culverhouse

Jacqueline Park has been in the local news often recently. But who was Jacqueline and why is there a park named for her?

From her birth April 26, 1840, until her death July 8, 1930, Jacqueline Ward Taylor was considered to be from hearty pioneer stock.

She was also a businesswoman, which was not unusual during this time.

“Aunt Jack,” as she was called, owned and operated Taylor Hotel on Main Street (then Broadway,) just across from her namesake park, where Harper Motors was once located.

“For boarding houses and hotels – a lot of women ended up doing that because their husbands died,” said Schelley Brown Francis, executive director of the Dorcheat Historical Museum. “Especially during war time, the women had to keep it going.”

Taylor was called one of the most “hospitable” businesswoman in Minden, according to the book If These Stones Could Talk, Part Two. When she died at the age of 90, it is reported that all the stores in town closed from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., so business owners could attend her service.

The funeral was held at the residence of the Rev. R.H. Wynn, pastor of First Methodist Church. Burial is in the Old Minden Cemetery.

“When you pull in the old section, her grave is about the first one on the left,” Francis said. “She was always the ‘main greeter’ when we did Ghost Walk.”

Renovations to Jacqueline Park gazebo – known as a bandstand to Aunt Jack – include a new roof and new posts that will have a place to charge cell phones. Sponsorships were sold to offset the cost and several businesses donated their time to refurbish it.

On Friday, April 8, there will be an unveiling of the projects. Lunch will be provided.

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By Doug Ireland, Journal Sports

Minden High School senior Connor Heard was among nine north Louisiana football standouts honored last Thursday night at the annual National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete Awards Banquet.

Receiving NFF Scholar-Athlete Awards and scholarship grants along with Heard were Caleb Aillet of Byrd, West Monroe’s Tag Banks, Tonzaiha Bland of Logansport, St. Mary’s Graeme Fidelak, Luke Gibson of Mangham, Benton’s R.J. Moore and Jed Worthey III of Cedar Creek.

Evan Howe of North DeSoto is the first recipient of the KTBS/Johnny’s Pizza Bob Griffin Scholarship, named in tribute of the iconic local TV sportscaster who covered area high school football and other sports for over a half-century. Griffin was also on the local NFF chapter’s board of directors.

A center and left guard on the Crimson Tide football team, Heard is a two-time All-District 1-4A lineman and a Composite Academic All-State selection.

Heard owns a perfect 4.0 GPA and ranks second in his class of 168. He posted a sky-high 34 on the ACT.

He is the Webster Parish and Minden High Student of the Year, a National Merit Scholarship Commended Scholar and has earned his school’s Student of the Year designation in English I and III, College Algebra, Psychology, Physical Science and Biology.

Heard is on the Minden Student Council, the Minden City Council Youth Advisory Committee and is a Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry Volunteer. He was a delegate to Louisiana Boys State last summer. He has a presidential scholarship to attend Louisiana Tech, and plans to major in engineering. 

Head football coaches around north Louisiana nominated senior players who carry at least a 3.2 cumulative grade point average, have earned all-district honors and are involved in extracurricular activities.

The event was hosted by the NFF’s S.M. McNaughton Chapter of North Louisiana, which awards eight $500 college scholarships each year to top football senior scholar-athletes.

Also honored during the event at East Ridge Country Club in Shreveport: legendary retired Northwestern State football coach Sam Goodwin and longtime KTBS-TV general manager George Sirven.

Goodwin received the McNaughton chapter’s Contributions to Amateur Football Award. He is the winningest football coach in Northwestern history with 102 wins from 1983-99. His Demons won conference championships in 1984, 1988, 1997 and 1998, making FCS playoff appearances in the latter three seasons and reaching the national semifinals in 1998. 

Thirty-eight of his players reached the NFL, and 22 won All-American honors, including College Football Hall of Fame member Gary Reasons. Goodwin also coached 1998 National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete winner Dr. William Broussard and two other Academic All-Americans, along with 42 all-conference selections. After ending his collegiate coaching and administrative career, his love for coaching the game returned him to prep football sidelines in Arkansas and then back in Louisiana at Pineville, Alexandria Senior High, Natchitoches Central, Lakeview and St. Mary’s. 

The winner of the McNaughton Chapter’s Distinguished American Award, Sirven has managed KTBS as the station emerged as a significant community partner with its sponsorship of major events such as the Freedom Fest Fourth of July celebration, and promotion of many civic causes including St. Jude Children’s Hospital. 

Last fall, KTBS celebrated the 25^th anniversary of its popular Friday Football Fever scoreboard show, which was just named Best Sports Show by the Louisiana Association of Broadcasters. The native Cuban is a naturalized American citizen who early in his television career shot high school football footage for Griffin when both worked for KSLA-TV. 

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By Shanda Gann

The 2022 4-H Shooting Sports Northern Regional Competition was held March 14 – 20 at Long Range Alley Gun Club and David Means Memorial 4-H Center in Grand Cane and Shreveport Gun Club. Webster Parish students competed in archery winning many medals. Several students scored high enough to qualify for the state competition.

Students registered beginning at 7 am with the competition beginning at 8 am. Each student shot two rounds of six arrows at three different distances of 10 meters, 15 meters and 20 meters.

In the Junior Genesis, Modified FITA category, Jackson Baker placed second, Mallory Coleman placed 5th and Braylen Baker placed 7th.

Madelyn Smith placed second in the Junior Compound Limited for 12-13 year olds. Noah Kaffka and Sadie Smith qualified for state.

The Junior Genesis competitors in Webster Parish included Jackson Baker, Mallory Coleman, Brailyn Baker and Chloe Gregg. This group won first place in this category.

Senior Genesis competitors included Danielle Collins (placed 7th), Brianne Bardette (placed 9th) and Lila Jo Walker qualified for state.

Luke Butcher placed third in Senior Compound Open while Joshua Kaffka placed 3rd in Senior Compound Limited. Landen Knotts placed 6th in Senior Compound Limited.

Webster Parish had the 2^nd place team for Senior Genesis composed of Brianne Bardett, Danielle Collins, Madison McGraw and Lila Jo Walker.

In 3D Archery, Colton Jellum placed 10^th in Junior Compound Limited (12-13 year olds) and Noah Kaffka and Blake Pipes qualified for state. Luke Butcher placed 2^nd in Senior Compound Open.

Landen Knotts placed 3^rd, Gage Jellum placed 7^th and Joshua Kaffka placed 9^th in Senior Compound Limited with Aubrey Gorman qualifying for state. Brianne Bardett placed 7^th in Senior Bare Bow/Genesis.

Webster Parish had the 2^nd Place team in Senior Compound Limited composed of Landen Knotts, Gage Jellum, Joshua Kaffka and Aubrey Gorman.

The Louisiana 4-H Shooting Sports Competition will be held April 26 – May 1 in Port Allen and Gonzales. 

For more information about the Webster Parish Shooting Sports program, please contact the LSU AgCenter Extension Office at (318)371-1371.

Watch The Webster Parish Journal for photos and results from 4-H Shooting competition.

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Doyline Panthers 10, North Caddo 2

Doyline Panthers had no trouble on offense Monday, winning big over North Caddo 10-2.

In the first inning, Doyline got their offense started. Noah Spears drove in two when Spears tripled.

Doyline scored four runs in the sixth inning. Cayden Mingo had an RBI single in the inning to lead the run scoring.

Spears was credited with the victory for Doyline. He went six innings, allowing two runs on seven hits, striking out eight and walking zero. Mingo threw one inning in relief out of the bullpen.

The Panthers racked up eight hits in the game. Caysten Mingo, Spears and Mingo all managed multiple hits for Doyline. Mingo, Spears and Mingo each collected two hits.

Captain Shreve 10, Minden Crimson Tide 1

Minden Crimson Tide Varsity had a tough time generating runs Monday, dropping their game with Captain Shreve 10-1.

Minden Crimson Tide Varsity got things started in the second inning when Jackson Mayfield singled on the first pitch of the at bat, scoring one run.

Captain Shreve scored three runs in the seventh inning. Captain Shreve scored its runs on a single by Harrell.

Willis got the win for Captain Shreve. The ace surrendered one run on three hits over six innings, striking out three and walking one. #4 threw one inning in relief out of the bullpen.

Brody Bower took the loss for Minden Crimson Tide Varsity. The righty went four and two-thirds innings, allowing five runs on seven hits and walking one.

Captain Shreve tallied two home runs on the day. Fant put one out in the sixth inning. Powell went yard in the sixth inning.

Andrew Cooper, Mayfield, and Bryson Ranger each collected one hit to lead Minden Crimson Tide Varsity.

Captain Shreve tallied 12 hits in the game. Fant and Willis all managed multiple hits for Captain Shreve. Fant led Captain Shreve with three hits in five at bats.

Central Baton Rouge 7, Glenbrook 3

Glenbrook Apaches stayed in it until the end, but Central Baton Rouge pulled away late in a 7-3 victory Saturday. The game was tied age three with CBR batting in the bottom of the sixth. Jude Grenmillion singled on a 0-1 count, scoring one run.

Glenbrook got on the board in the first inning when Turner McLelland tripled on the first pitch of the at-bat, scoring two runs.

Cason Clemons took the loss for Glenbrook. The bulldog surrendered three runs on five hits over one inning, walking zero.

Cale Hollis started the game for the Apaches. The hurler allowed four hits and three runs over four innings, striking out tow.

Maddox Mandino, McLelland and Easton Sanders all had one hit to lead the Apaches. Glenbrook was sure-handed and didn’t commit a single error. Garrett Brown made the most plays with five.

Doyline Panthers 10, Castor 0

Noah Spears threw a gem on Friday for Doyline Panthers Varsity, allowing zero runs and besting Castor by a score of 10-0.

Doyline Panthers Varsity fired up the offense in the first inning. Spears singled on the first pitch of the at bat, scoring two runs.

Doyline Panthers Varsity scored five runs in the fourth inning. Doyline Panthers Varsity’s big inning was driven by singles by Dakota Stewart and Benton Bates.

One bright spot for Castor was a double by D Freeman in the first inning.

Spears was the winning pitcher for Doyline Panthers Varsity. The righthander went five innings, allowing zero runs on three hits, striking out 11 and walking zero.

B Cox took the loss for Castor. The pitcher lasted two innings, allowing two hits and four runs while striking out two.

Austin Arbaugh led Doyline Panthers Varsity with three hits in four at bats. Doyline Panthers Varsity didn’t commit a single error in the field. Stewart had the most chances in the field with 11. Stewart led Doyline Panthers Varsity with three stolen bases, as they ran wild on the base paths with ten stolen bases.

Freeman went 2-for-2 at the plate to lead Castor in hits.

North Webster 12, Converse 11

North Webster Knights Varsity took Friday’s game in dramatic fashion, with a 12-11 walk-off victory over Converse. The game was tied at 11 with North Webster Knights Varsity batting in the bottom of the ninth when Peyton Ingle singled on the first pitch of the at bat, scoring one run.

Both offenses were strong at the plate as North Webster Knights Varsity collected nine hits and Converse nine in the high-scoring affair

Converse took an early lead in the second inning when an error scored one run for Converse.

North Webster Knights Varsity tallied three runs in the seventh inning. The offensive firepower by North Webster Knights Varsity was led by Ethyn Rader, Nathan Bernard, and Collin McKenzie, all sending runners across the plate with RBIs in the inning.

Converse scored four runs in the sixth inning. Caden Crais, Cameron Crais, Jacob Hungerford, and Austin Burr each drove in runs during the inning.

Ingle got the win for North Webster Knights Varsity. The fireballer allowed two hits and one run over three and a third innings, striking out four and walking zero.

Logan Carter took the loss for Converse. The hurler allowed four hits and two runs over two innings, striking out three and walking one.

McKenzie started the game for North Webster Knights Varsity. McKenzie surrendered nine runs on seven hits over five and two-thirds innings, striking out four and walking one Hungerford started the game for Converse. Hungerford surrendered four runs on two hits over one and one-third innings, striking out one

North Webster Knights Varsity saw the ball well today, racking up nine hits in the game. McKenzie and Cooper Sanders each collected multiple hits for North Webster Knights Varsity. McKenzie led North Webster Knights Varsity with three hits in four at bats.

Converse racked up nine hits on the day. Crais and Burr each racked up multiple hits for Converse. Crais went 3-for-5 at the plate to lead Converse in hits. Converse tore up the base paths, as three players stole at least two bases. Brooks Boudreaux led the way with two.

Central Baton Rouge 2, Glenbrook 0

Glenbrook Apaches fell behind early and couldn’t come back in a 2-0 loss to Central Baton Rouge Friday. Central Baton Rouge took the lead on a single in the first inning.

The pitching was strong on both sides. Central Baton Rouge pitchers struck out 12 while Glenbrook sat down four.

In the first inning, Central Baton Rouge got their offense started when #4 singled on a 1-0 count, scoring one run.

A single by Cason Clemons in the first inning was a positive for Glenbrook.

Turner McLelland took the loss for Glenbrook. He went four innings, allowing one run on five hits, striking out one and walking one.

Maddox Mandino and Clemons each managed one hit to lead the Apaches.

North Webster Nights 14, Cedar Creek 1

North Webster Knights Varsity defeated Cedar Creek 14-1 on Thursday thanks to a timely 10 runs in a big first inning.

North Webster Knights Varsity offense in the inning was led by Peyton Ingle, Judd Wesson, Ethyn Rader, Nathan Bernard, Collin McKenzie and Kyle Dinkins, who all drove in runs.

North Webster Knights Varsity opened up scoring in the first inning. Ingle singled on a 1-0 count, scoring two runs.

Mason Haynes was credited with the victory for North Webster Knights Varsity. The bulldog allowed three hits and one run over five innings, striking out two and walking one.

Blake Wade took the loss for Cedar Creek. The hurler allowed nine hits and 11 runs over one and one-third innings.

North Webster Knights Varsity collected 14 hits. Dinkins, Cooper Sanders, Ingle, Rader, and McKenzie each managed multiple hits for North Webster Knights Varsity. Dinkins went 3-for-4 at the plate to lead North Webster Knights Varsity in hits. North Webster Knights Varsity was sure-handed in the field and didn’t commit a single error. Dinkins had the most chances in the field with four.

Recap: Narrative Science and GameChanger Media.

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Minden Lions presented a special award Thursday. Lion Tommy Davis received the first Spirit of Service Award, which honors a Minden Lion who goes above and beyond in exemplifying the Lions Club motto, “We Serve.”

Lion Tommy serves as first vice president and Tail Twister and participates in a variety of Lions Club activities, including the bi-annual Chicken Charbroils, Cubsight vision screenings, Webster Parish Fair parking, ticket collection at MHS football games, city-wide cleanup days and used eyeglass collection. He’s always willing to help wherever there is a need – both within the club and outside in the community. 

Lion Tommy was unanimously selected by a committee of Minden Lions Club members.

New administrator speaks to Lions

Minden Lions heard from the administrator of Town and Country Health & Rehab during Thursday’s club meeting. Brooke Snyder discussed the services Town & Country provides, as well as several topics surrounding long-term care.

A Q&A session was held with many questions being asked about long-term care insurance and protection of assets prior to being admitted into a nursing facility. Brooke encouraged the Lions to seek the advice of a qualified financial advisor or attorney. 

 

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United Christian Assistance Program has the following needs:

Food: powdered milk, cooking oil, cornbread mix, biscuit mix

Household goods: king and queen sheets, towels

Clothing: men’s socks, men’s pants and jeans (32 and 34 waist), men’s tennis shoes (sizes 9 – 10 1/2)

Thank you for supporting UCAP.

UCAP is open  from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays for food, utility and rent assistance. Clothing is dispensed on Wednesdays only.

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March 29

10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Job and Career Expo at NLTCC, 9500 Industrial Dr., Minden.

March 31

6:30 p.m. “Be the Calm in the Chaos,” A discussion on serving those who are suffering, sponsored by WHO of North Webster, Springhill Medical Center and First Baptist Church of Springhill. The event will be held at FBC, Springhill. Speaker: Morgan Grantham.

April 2

10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Wings & Wheels Fly-In & Car Show at Minden Airport.

April 4-7

8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. school bus driver training course for Webster Parish Schools. Site is Harper Pathway to Excellence Center, 618 Germantown Rd., Minden. For more information, call 318-377-7052 for Jeff Franklin.

April 5

Greater Minden chamber’s Annual Awards Gala, celebrating 80 years. Presented by Minden Medical Center.

April 6

Lakeside Jr./Sr. High School will host an Easter egg hunt. Donations are needed of plastic eggs and small treats. No chocolate.

April 8

9 a.m. Celebration of Growth and Reaching Goals, Brown Upper Elementary School, Easter Celebration Parade.

April 9

10 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Egg Hunt sponsored by Webster Parish Libraries. Ages 4 and under: hunt at 10 a.m.; 5 to 9 at 10:30 a.m.; 10 to 13 at 11 a.m.; 14 to 18 at 11:30 p.m.; 18 and over at noon.

11 a.m. until 1 p.m. YWSC Easter egg hunt at The Farm of Cultural Crossroads. Ages 0-3, 4-7 and 8-12. Bounce houses and lunch provided. Free to the community.

April 10

9 a.m. until 1 p.m. LifeShare Blood Center blood drive, West Lake Baptist Church. For more information, call 318-673-1485.

8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., LifeShare Blood Center blood drive, First Baptist Church, Minden. For more information, call 318-673-1485.

April 13

1:30 p.m. until 5 p.m. Minden Community Blood Drive, LifeShare Blood Center. For more information, call 318-673-1485.

April 14

1 p.m. Genealogy meeting at The Quad. Sponsored by Webster Parish Library. Guest speaker; Jessica Gorman.

April 15-17

Spring Highway 80 sale between Minden and Dixie Inn.

April 19

9:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., Fibrebond, Inc., Blood Drive with LifeShare Blood Center. For more information, call 318-673-1485.

April 21

10 a.m. until 1 p.m., Senior Fun Day for ages 50 and older. Vendor booths, games, door prizes. Springhill CAC Building. Sponsored by Springhill Medical Center. Free admission; free lunch sponsored by Regional Hospice.

April 23

Piney Hills Master Gardeners Annual Green Thumb Jamboree. Plant sale, vendors, food truck and activities for the kids. Vendors of all kinds contact Marilyn Bunton at 318-299-0137. 

10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Bluegrass Festival, Minden Community House.

10 a.m. until 6 p.m., Scottish Tartan Festival, 224 La-518, Minden.

April 30 & May 1

7 a.m. both days, Minden Evening Lions Club will be hosting a garage sale fundraiser at the Minden Fairgrounds field. They are taking donations now if you have anything you’d like to contribute to help them raise funds you can contact Sherrie McMurray at 294-6346, Dru Brown at 272-2467 or Tommy McMurray. 

May 7

9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tradition with a Twist Quilt Show presented by Piney Needles Quilt Guild. South Main Mall, Springhill. Free admission.

• If you have a non-profit event: church, school or community, please email it to wpjnewsla@gmail.com.* Webster Parish Journal reserves the right to determine if a calendar item is a paid advertisement.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A routine traffic stop on U.S. Hwy. 371 near Hwy. 2 led to the arrests of two Cotton Valley men on drug charges.

Gregory E. Stroud, 49, and Gregory Scott Lemons, 64, (photo unavailable) were arrested by Webster Parish Sheriff’s deputy Jacob Winiarski for distribution of methamphetamine, possession of natural marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Lemons had added charges of driving with view obstructed and driving under suspension.

Sheriff Jason Parker said the deputy identified Lemons as the driver of the vehicle after stopping him for obstructed view of his rearview mirror.

“Lemons kept acting nervous and trying to change the subject of the traffic stop to talking about deputies he knows,” Parker said. “After dispatch advised the deputy that Lemons was driving under suspension, Deputy Winiarski asked him to step out of the vehicle. Lemons gave him consent to search it.”

Parker said the deputy located a methamphetamine pipe concealed under the steering wheel and a small magnetic bag under the passenger side of the rear bumper holding two small baggies of suspected methamphetamine.

“Neither man claimed the methamphetamine,” said the sheriff. “Both claimed the other concealed it there to ‘deal dope.’”

Stroud was reportedly found to have a cigarette pack concealed in his sock containing two suspected natural marijuana cigarettes.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video 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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March 23

Telvin West, 29, of the 100 block of Squire St., Minden, was arrested by Minden Police for disturbing the peace.

Kerryngton Andrew Rainwater, 29, of Monroe, was arrested by Webster Parish Sheriff’s deputies for failure to signal, possession of marijuana and possession of a firearm by a felon.

Finessa Rashun Williams, 35, of Shongaloo, was arrested by WPSO on a warrant for contempt of court.

March 24

Kera Virgil, 37, of the 200 block of Pie Brown Rd., Doyline, was arrested by probation & parole for a probation violation.

Christina L. Hice, 42, of the 200 block of Pie Brown Rd., Doyline, was arrested by probation & parole for possession of marijuana, methamphetamine and for probation violations.

Kenneth C. Brewer, 37, of Sugar Creek Rd., Minden, was arrested by Springhill Police on an outstanding warrant for careless operation.

Mikelle Maness, 47, of the 700 block of Park Hwy., Minden, was arrested by Springhill Police on a warrant for contempt of court (theft).

Lawrence K. Kagler, 19, of the 200 block of Reynolds, Cullen, was arrested by Cullen Police for illegal discharge of a firearm and aggravated criminal damage to property.

March 25

George Puffer, 54, of Shreveport Rd., Minden, was arrested by MPD on warrants for criminal trespass, possession of drug paraphernalia and 2 counts of theft.

Amanda Yvonne Valentine, 44, of Taylor Ark., was arrested by Cullen Police for possession of methamphetamine, a firearm with CDS and drug paraphernalia.

March 26

Coty Q. Robinson, 33, of Springhill, was arrested by Springhill Police for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.

March 27

Teadrien R. Burris, 27, of Peach St., Minden, was arrested by Minden Police for stalking and as a fugitive from WPSO.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video 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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Paul Glenn Thompson

Dec. 30, 1971 – March 24, 2022

Visitation: noon until 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 29, 2022 at Plain Dealing Baptist Church

Memorial Service: 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 29, 2022 at Plain Dealing Baptist Church

** Webster Parish Journal posts paid 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 free of charge.)

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

By just after 9 p.m. Saturday, and with 120 of 121 precincts reporting, “Allie” Aiello Stahl conceded the election for 26th Judicial District Court Judge, and Doug Stinson is on his way to the bench.

In the two-parish race, with 13,607 voters, Stinson acquired 61 percent of the vote (8,362) to Stahl’s 39 percent (5,245. In Webster Parish alone, with 3,651 votes in 39 of 39 precincts, Stinson had 57 percent (2,081) to Stahl’s 43 percent (1,570).

Other elections included Evergreen Fire Protection District and Springhill Fire Protections, both of which passed handily.

Evergreen passed with 95 percent or 61 votes to 5 percent or 3 votes.

Springhill passed with 61 percent or 277 votes to 39 percent or 178.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Looking to help Minden residents with lower utility bills may take thinking outside the box.

That’s why the City of Minden is working toward building a solar farm on approximately 13 acres behind the power plant on Yale Street across from Babb Park.

“We have a lot of acreage out there, and we have already contracted the removal of trees,” said Mayor Terry Gardner. “The cooling towers were there from the old plant, so they’ve been removed … but first of all, we had to remove the asbestos.”

Once that was accomplished, Gardner said submerged water vats were demolished and left underground.

“We have a local contractor hauling dirt to fill in those,” Gardner said. “We’ve moved a water line that was there, too.”

The city is currently in discussion with Ally Energy Solutions and Capstone Energy concerning the panels.

Gardner said $1.2 million are available for construction, but the city would like to see that money replaced with grant funds.

“Capstone is a company that helps find grants,” said Tyler Wallace, assistant Public Works Director for the city. “We are leaning toward purchasing the panels, rather than leasing. We would rather own it.”

Using the sun, solar panels generate electricity which is then “metered” to the city’s power plant.

“It will be tied to us; we’re on this side of the meter,” said Russell Poole, head of Minden’s power plant. “Unless SWEPCO puts a meter on it, but they haven’t mentioned it.”

The City of Minden has been in an electrical agreement with AE SWEPCO for between two and three decades. There is still time left on the contract.

“Within our contract, we are allowed to do a megawatt behind the meter,” Gardner said. “Which will roughly save $15 to $25 per household. It depends on the customer’s usage how much it will bring down their light bill.”

As is expected, the number of sun hours will also play a key role.

“If it’s shady all the time, you’re not going to get the megawatt,” Gardner said. “But somedays, you may get more than that.”

“Solar farms are very low maintenance,” Wallace added. “Ruston has a similar one.”

Gardner said the project was approved through the budget, however, the council will have to approve the construction company due to the cost.

“Last year it was in the budget to do the remediation and the land,” Wallace said. “The next budget year, we will actually do the farm.”

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Police officers put their lives on the line every day, and if three bills proposed by District 10 Rep. Wayne McMahen become laws, certain offenses and offenders may face steeper penalties by clarification.

House Bill 99 adds to the present law (R.S. 14:108.2) crime of resisting a police officer with force or violence to the list of enumerated crimes of violence.

Current law provides for a definition of “crime of violence” which means an offense that has, as an element, the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against the person or property of another, and that, by its very nature, involves a substantial risk that physical force against the person or property of another may be used in the course of committing the offense or an offense that involves the possession or use of a dangerous weapon.

This bill is pending discussion in the House Administration of Criminal Justice committee.

House Bill 371 amends the definition of “police officer” for the crimes of battery of a police officer and resisting a police officer with force or violence to include juvenile detention facility officers.

Present law defines “police officer” to include any commissioned police officer, sheriff, deputy sheriff, marshal, deputy marshal, correctional officer, constable, wildlife enforcement agent, state park warden, or probation and parole officer.

This bill was scheduled for floor debate Monday.

House Bill 634 would raise the age of offenders from 17 to 18 years of age or older.

Present law further provides that the age of the offenders of those present law crimes is 17 years of age or older.

Present law provides for the crimes of sexual battery, second degree sexual battery, felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile, misdemeanor carnal knowledge of a juvenile, pornography involving juveniles, molestation of a juvenile or a person with a physical or mental disability, computer-aided solicitation of a minor, illegal use of controlled dangerous substances in the presence of persons under seventeen years of age, contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, cruelty to juveniles, second degree cruelty to juveniles and video voyeurism.

This bill is pending discussion in the House Administration of Criminal Justice committee.

The 2022 session of the Louisiana Legislature convened Monday, March 14 and will adjourn no later than 6 p.m. Monday, June 6.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Two inmates at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center have extra charges added after severely beating another prisoner.

Devonte Jackson, 22, of the 200 block of Virginia Ave., Minden, and Brandon R. White, 21, of the 100 block of S. Collins St., Cullen, are charged with simple battery and hate crimes.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said the incident took place March 17 when a fourth inmate told the attackers the victim was a snitch and gay.

“The victim attempted to defend himself, but was punched several times by both Jackson and White,” Parker said. “Eventually, the victim tried to further defend himself by falling to the ground on his knees and tucking his head underneath his arms. He said Jackson and White continued punching him with their fists and kicking him.”

The fourth inmate reportedly told the two to stop, saying the victim “had enough.” The victim reportedly sustained injuries to his lower back and facial area.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video 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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A free Soil Health in Your Garden workshop will be offered on April 12 at the Webster Parish Library in Minden. Soil scientist Rachel Stout-Evans will present information to help gardeners understand and manage soil health to improve production.  Workshop topics include the composition of soil, how soils function, indicators of soil health, and ways to manage soil health.  Stout-Evans is a resource soil scientist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.  

There is no charge to attend this workshop, but because food will be served, pre-registration is requested.  To pre-register or for more information on the workshop, call or text (318) 237-8350 and provide your contact information and the name of the workshop you would like to attend.

The Webster Parish Library is located at 521 East and West Street, in Minden, Louisiana.  The workshop will be presented in the library’s Quad Meeting Room.  On April 12, on-site registration/sign-in will begin at the library at 5:30 p.m.  The workshop presentation will begin at 6 p.m. and conclude at 7:30 p.m.  Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing reasonable accommodations or who have questions about physical access may contact Trailblazer RC&D at (318) 255-3554 or ceo@trailblazer.org prior to the meeting or event.

This workshop will be conducted in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health COVID-19 guidelines.  If you are not feeling well or you have been exposed to COVID-19, please stay home.  

This presentation is hosted by the Webster Parish Library, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Trailblazer RC&D.  Free registration for this presentation is made possible by the support of Energy Transfer; Hunt Forest Products, LLC; Mudd & Holland Consulting Foresters, LLC; Weyerhaeuser; Allstate Land & Timber Co., Inc.; National Wild Turkey Federation; Burnham Construction; Canfor Southern Pine; Louisiana Forestry Association; Whitetails Unlimited, Lincoln Parish Chapter; Webster Parish Police Jury; Webster Parish Library; USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; and Trailblazer RC&D.

Trailblazer RC&D is a nonprofit organization that provides leadership, coordination, partnership development, and technical assistance projects to encourage strong communities, sustainable agriculture, and a healthy environment.

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The Webster Parish Journal “WPJ” publishes paid engagement and wedding announcements, as well as anniversaries, for couples who reside in the parish, who have relatives in the parish or who are getting married in the parish. (Fees apply.)

This move by the Journal allows couples to showcase their announcement. 

Information for engagement announcements include: 

Digital photograph of the couple 

The couple’s names 

The couple’s hometowns 

High school and/or college of the couple 

Parents’ names and/or grandparents’ names 

Ties to the parish 

Wedding time, date, and place 

An interesting fact about the couple 

Information for the wedding announcements include: 

Digital photograph of the couple 

The couple’s names 

The couple’s hometowns 

High school and/or college of the couple 

Parents’ names and/or grandparents’ names 

Officiant  

Attendants 

Ties to the parish 

Wedding time, date, and place 

For engagement and wedding announcement fees and/or to submit information for publication, please email wpjnewsla@gmail.com. 

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MHS EH (Expanded Horizons) students designed logos for the businesses they are creating. The businesses include a retail sporting goods store, an industrial business that customizes and creates rims and a personalized art design and distribution business.

The students had recent guest speakers for their business project including Jennifer Spurlock of Split Sea Marketing; Phillip Smart, economic developer for Ruston; Dale Colvin of SWEPCO; and Jana Morgan, President and CEO of Greater Minden Chamber.

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March 26

9 a.m. until 1 p.m., NWHS Baseball Mini-Camp at NWHS baseball field on Stateline Rd. Deadline to register: March 18. Call or text 318-578-2359.

6 p.m. The Perrys at CAC Building, Springhill.

March 29

10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Job and Career Expo at NLTCC, 9500 Industrial Dr., Minden.

March 31

6:30 p.m. “Be the Calm in the Chaos,” A discussion on serving those who are suffering, sponsored by WHO of North Webster, Springhill Medical Center and First Baptist Church of Springhill. The event will be held at FBC, Springhill. Speaker: Morgan Grantham.

April 2

10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Wings & Wheels Fly-In & Car Show at Minden Airport.

April 4-7

8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. school bus driver training course for Webster Parish Schools. Site is Harper Pathway to Excellence Center, 618 Germantown Rd., Minden. For more information, call 318-377-7052 for Jeff Franklin.

April 5

Greater Minden chamber’s Annual Awards Gala, celebrating 80 years. Presented by Minden Medical Center.

April 6

Lakeside Jr./Sr. High School will host an Easter egg hunt. Donations are needed of plastic eggs and small treats. No chocolate.

April 9

10 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Egg Hunt sponsored by Webster Parish Libraries. Ages 4 and under: hunt at 10 a.m.; 5 to 9 at 10:30 a.m.; 10 to 13 at 11 a.m.; 14 to 18 at 11:30 p.m.; 18 and over at noon.

11 a.m. until 1 p.m. YWSC Easter egg hunt at The Farm of Cultural Crossroads. Ages 0-3, 4-7 and 8-12. Bounce houses and lunch provided. Free to the community.

April 14

1 p.m. Genealogy meeting at The Quad. Sponsored by Webster Parish Library. Guest speaker; Jessica Gorman.

April 15-17

Spring Highway 80 sale between Minden and Dixie Inn.

April 21

10 a.m. until 1 p.m., Senior Fun Day for ages 50 and older. Vendor booths, games, door prizes. Springhill CAC Building. Sponsored by Springhill Medical Center. Free admission; free lunch sponsored by Regional Hospice.

April 23

Piney Hills Master Gardeners Annual Green Thumb Jamboree. Plant sale, vendors, food truck and activities for the kids. Vendors of all kinds contact Marilyn Bunton at 318-299-0137. 

April 30 & May 1

7 a.m. both days, Minden Evening Lions Club will be hosting a garage sale fundraiser at the Minden Fairgrounds field. They are taking donations now if you have anything you’d like to contribute to help them raise funds you can contact Sherrie McMurray at 294-6346, Dru Brown at 272-2467 or Tommy McMurray. 

May 7

9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tradition with a Twist Quilt Show presented by Piney Needles Quilt Guild. South Main Mall, Springhill. Free admission.

• If you have a non-profit event: church, school or community, please email it to wpjnewsla@gmail.com.* Webster Parish Journal reserves the right to determine if a calendar item is a paid advertisement.

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will hold its annual Father-Child Families Understanding Nature (FUN) Camp April 8-10 at the Woodworth Outdoor Education facility, south of Alexandria. The camp is open to parents with children from 10-13 years old.
 
The Father-Child camp is generally held in the spring and the Mother-Child camp in the fall.
 
The camp offers parents and children an opportunity to spend a weekend in the outdoors, re-establishing bonds and honing outdoor skills.
 
Pre-registration is required and space is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is $50 for each family (a parent and child). Each additional child is $25 (limit two children per adult). The fee covers meals, lodging and supplies, including tents, used during the weekend. Bed linens and sleeping bags are not provided.
 
For more information or to obtain a registration form on-line, visit LDWF’s website or contact Theresa Cross at 337-491-2575, extension 3009.

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March 21

Starsky Willis, 43, of the 100 block of Hunter St., Homer, was arrested by Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s deputies and transferred to Webster Parish Jail on warrants for drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine and improper equipment.

Brittania Bailey, 29. Of the 1200 block of Shreveport Rd., Minden, was arrested on a bench warrant for failure to appear (in court).

March 22

Margaret M. Wade, 32, of Doyline, was arrested by WPSO for contempt of court. Original charge: theft.

March 23

Britney N. Pickrom, 32, of the 900 block of Carolina St., Minden, was arrested by WPSO for a warrant from Bienville Parish after a traffic stop on I-20.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video 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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The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court beginning March 17:

March 17

Webster Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission vs. Kevin Mixon dba Main Street Auction, delinquent taxes

Webster Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission vs. Sherry Lynn Garrett, Enchanted Garden Florist LLC, delinquent taxes

Webster Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission vs. LaJuana Scott, dba Proud Peacock, delinquent taxes

March 21

Betty McCoy vs. Teadrian Burris, protective order

March 22

Mariner Finance LLC vs. Jimmy Carter Jr., Jailena Carter, suit on note

Cavalry SPV I LLC as assignee of Citibank vs. Chad E. Maricle, judgment executory and garnishment

Mariner Finance LLC vs. John Eric Day, suit on note

Countryplace Mortgage LTD vs. Marcin Mulder, executory process

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Rev. Dr. James ‘Jim’ Kennedy

April 24, 1941 – March 20, 2022

Visitation: 9:30 a.m. until service time, Bailey Funeral Home Chapel, Springhill

Memorial service: 10:30 a.m. at funeral home

 

Gracie Mae McCray Meek

Sept. 9, 1940 – March 19, 2022

Visitation: noon until service time at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Dr., Shreveport

Funeral: 1 p.m. Friday, March 25, 2022 at the funeral home

 

Betty Lynn Anders Jordan

Feb. 20, 1938 – March 20, 2022

Visitation: 10 a.m. prior to service at First Baptist Church, Arcadia

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Saturday, March 26, 2022

Burial: Arcadia Cemetery

 

Carol W. Hooter

August 25, 1947 – March 20, 2022

Visitation: 1:30 p.m. until service time Thursday, March 24, 2022 at Springhill United Pentecostal Church, Springhill

Funeral service: 3 p.m.

Burial: Cotton Valley Cemetery

 

Eddie Louis Starr

Oct. 26, 1953 – March 21, 2022

A private memorial will be held at a later date

Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill

 

** Webster Parish Journal posts paid 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 free of charge.)

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By Paige Nash

A resolution was approved Tuesday by Webster Parish Police Jury, giving permission to President Jim Bonsall to sign final documents for the sale of the Webster Parish Landfill on their behalf. 

The police jury has owned the landfill for more than 25 years, but it has been privately operated since 1977, with Republic Services being the current operator. Finalization of the sale will take place this Friday, March 25, making Republic Services the official owner.  

The Sarepta Transfer/Receiving Station at Wenks Landing was not part of that sale. All the land is owned by the police jury, with Republic Services owning all of the equipment currently at the receiving station, apart from an office building. The receiving station will now be leased to and operated by Sam and Leslie Plants, owners of Knight Services La, LLC. 

“Republic Services will be moving their stuff out after Friday,” said Patrick Jackson, Webster Parish Attorney, “and the new receiving station operator, Sam with Knight Services will be moving in Monday.”

They will be open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. beginning March 31.  

The following items were also approved unanimously by the jurors, with exception of Daniel Thomas, who was absent from the special meeting today and Bernard Hudson, who arrived about halfway through: 

• Teijin Automotive Technologies’ Louisiana, LLC located in Sarepta to receive Industrial Tax Exemption; 

• Registrar’s request to hire a Confidential Assistant;

• Adding “No Thru Truck” signs on Carter Road in Doyline, requested by juror for District 12, Ed Jordan; 

• Public Hearing concerning the adoption of Reapportionment Plan I for Webster Parish, at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 5 in the Webster Parish Courthouse Annex, Police Jury Meeting room. The plan will be available for public viewing in the lobby of the annex located at 401 Main Street in Minden. The lobby is open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on Fridays.  

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