By Steve Graf

Oh, the joy of fishing tournaments! They say half the fun of any trip is getting there. Well not for me!!! Every hobby or job has at least one thing that you probably don’t like to do…like yard work, where you have to clean out the flower beds or after mowing the yard, then you have to rake it. For me, the biggest drawback to tournament fishing is the road time. Today, I’ll tell you about my travel habits that have taken me from Oklahoma to the Carolina’s down to South Florida and all points in between. 

These trips can be a grind with some being 8 to 12 hours away. The one exception, which was a nightmare, was my trip to Lake Okeechobee in South Florida. This was a 17-hour trip one way and one that I hope to never make again. A few other places I’ve traveled to for a tournament over the last 25 years include Lake Hartwell, South Carolina (12 hours), Lake Eufaula, Alabama (9 hours), Lake Pickwick, Alabama (9 hours), Kentucky Lake (8 hours), and Lake Chickamauga, TN (10 hours).

These trips give a guy plenty of time to think, time to plan and reflect on life in general. Sirius XM Radio is the best thing that has happened to live radio in years. All I have to do to transport myself back in time is turn to the 70’s channel. I’m instantly back when times were simpler and slower, and listening to the best music ever made. But if I want a dose of reality, I can turn to channel 111 and hear Dr. Laura Schlessinger give her analysis and advice on people’s personal issues, or I can align my conservative self with Fox News on channel 114. But you have to be careful when listening to Fox News because too much of today’s news can send you into a deep depression and then you’ll have to call Dr. Laura for advice. If all else fails, I can find the Elvis channel with nothing but his greatest hits 24/7. Seriously, Sirius XM Radio is the best thing ever for road warriors! But these long road trips also give me time to try and put a game plan together on how I will attack the lake I’m headed for. 

Nothing makes a road trip more enjoyable than snacks. This is a huge decision that requires a lot of preplanning. Do I want to go with sunflower seeds, peanuts, or cashews? Do I buy a trail mix with both nuts and dried fruit (which I really do like)? Or do I go with Oreo’s and chips which I have gotten away from now that I’m so health conscious. Just kidding! But out of necessity, I have taken a new approach to my daily intake of good food vs. bad food. You’re never too old for change. 

There are definitely many things to consider when traveling to my tournaments. I probably don’t take advantage of all the places I’ve gone. I’m pretty much fishing focused when I’m headed for a tournament, and I don’t take the time to explore or sightsee. Another thing about me, when I hit the road, I have one thing on my mind…. get there. Whether it’s going to a tournament or going home. I’ll drive all night to get home after my final weigh-in. I actually do very well driving at night as long as I have my snacks. Now you have just a little insight as to what traveling to a tournament is all about for me. Other than a blown trailer tire every now and then, most of my trips are safe and uneventful; hopefully this trend will continue. Till next time, good luck, good fishing and don’t forget to set the hook! 

Steve Graf Owner/Co-host                                            Hook’N Up & Track’N Down 

Show and Tackle Talk Live

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Joan Basham

Sept. 20., 1931 – April 25, 2022

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 27, 2022 at Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Funeral: 2 p.m. Thursday, April 28, 2022 at Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill

Burial: Spring Branch Cemetery, Taylor, Ark.

 

Winferd Byers

Dec. 23, 1942 – April 24, 2022

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Thursday, April 28, 2022 at Bistineau Cemetery, Heflin, La., under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden, La.

 

Sidney Carole Smith

Dec. 22, 1938 – April 25, 2022

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 27, 2022 at Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Graveside: 11 a.m. Thursday, April 28, 2022 at Mount Moriah Cemetery, Sarepta, La.

 

Charlotte Wray Hood Coile

Jan. 25, 1943 – April 23, 2002

Visitation: 10 a.m. Thursday, April 28, 2022 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City, La.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Thursday, April 28, 2022 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City, La.

Burial: Plain Dealing Cemetery.

 

Cherron Ann Frasier Landrum

Sept. 27, 1947 – April 23, 2022

Celebration of Life: Saturday, June 18, 2022 at Mission Point Baptist Church, Stonewall, La.

 

Kenneth George Cunningham

May 25, 1943 – March 30, 2022

Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 14, 2022 at Broadmoor United Methodist Church

Memorial Service: 11 a.m. Saturday, May 14, 2022 at Broadmoor United Methodist Church, Shreveport, La.

 

Christine E. Whittington

June 20, 1968 – April 12, 2022

Visitation: 8:30 until 10:15 a.m. Friday, May 6, 2022 at RoseNeath Funeral Home, Marksville

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Friday, May 6, 2022 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Marksville

Burial: Holy Ghost Catholic Cemetery.

** 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

From sports to music, this past weekend proved wrong the persons who say “there’s nothing to do in Minden.”

Registration numbers were impressive every day of the 2022 McKenzie Archery Shooters Association Easton/Hoyt Pro/Am Tour inaugural event at Camp Minden. Archers from across the country were streaming in for the four-day tournament that kicked off Thursday.

Archers were constantly practicing and vendors were setting up tents to display equipment and merchandise.

Activities continued through Sunday, featuring the Pro Pressure Point Shoot Down which was held at the Bossier Civic Center Saturday, April 23 at 4 p.m., in partnership with the City of Bossier City.  That competition was showcased on national cable TV via The Sportsman Channel.

Friday evening, a crawfish boil was held for the ASA staff at Camp Minden. Around 75-100 persons showed up for the gathering planned and sponsored by the Webster Parish Tourism. Crawfish was donated by Louisiana Seafood Association and prepared on site by Seafood Empire of Minden. Live music was provided by B Cam and the Zydeco Bucs from Mansfield.

Green Thumb Jamboree

Saturday kicked off at 8 a.m. with a huge plant sale at Green Thumb Jamboree at the LSU Ag Center on Homer Road. Plant lovers attending were able to purchase annuals, perennials, native plants, succulents, bulbs and more. Vendors and demonstrations took place until 1 p.m., and Minden Fire Department was on-hand for the children.

Germantown Bluegrass Festival

Webster Parish Fairgrounds was host to the annual Bluegrass Festival, with music beginning at 10 a.m. and lasting until 4 p.m. The event featured such talent as Gent Mountain Grass Burrs, Caden Wilson, Amanda Roberts, Ben Shirley, Monday Night Jammers, James Sandidge & Friends and Dr. Squeak.

Sponsors include Gibsland Bank & Trust, Wild Thang Custom Meats, Coca Cola Bottling Co. of Minden, Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission and Petro-Chem Operating.

Funds collected from the festival go to upkeep and improvements to the Germantown Colony Museum.

Tartan Festival

And if none of those events suited, the annual Tartan Festival hosted hundreds of people from inside and outside the parish area. At Scottish Farms, just outside of town, there were vendors, a dog show, food, demonstrations, bagpipes and other types of music for a full day.

Every 15 to 30 minutes, a different band, storyteller or contest kept the crowd entertained.

All day events included a children’s area, blacksmithing, flintknapping, hayride, birds of prey exhibit and other activities.

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By Paige Nash

The LA 160 bridge located near Cotton Valley that goes over the Dorcheat Bayou has been closed due to the condition of the bridge since June 18 of last year. The rebuild of the bridge just received a low bid of $9,387,832.12 from an unnamed contractor.  

The project also includes three other bridges receiving rehabilitation along LA 160, in the same section of Dorcheat bottoms.  

This job was the most expensive bid of the 19 projects in the state being funded by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. Fifteen contractors were presented with apparent low bids on the 19 projects totaling $51.1 million. 

This span of bridges falls in Webster Parish districts 3, 4 and 5. According to District #4 Police Juror, Randy Thomas, the review of the bid contract will take approximately 30 days, which is normal for every project.  

The project received 3 bids, and all were over the estimated cost. 

“After review, the department will determine if it will be awarded,” said David North, District Engineer with LADOTD. “If it is awarded, the construction should start by summer’s end and will probably take about 2.5 years.” 

 Vehicle detours will remain on US 371, LA 2 and LA 159.  

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By Paige Nash

Sunday was a great day to be a dog. Two-legged and four-legged friends from around town came to Academy Park to celebrate Chairman’s first birthday, Mayor Terry Gardner’s companion. This was the first event to help raise funds for the new Minden Animal Shelter.  

“It is amazing that so many animal lovers turned out today to support not only Chairman’s birthday, but to support our new animal shelter,” Gardner said.  

The birthday party included tail painting, a bounce house, a photo booth, cakes and goodies for dogs and humans. There was a donation table set up where the public could view the plans for the new shelter. The plans showed multiple canine kennels, a cat room, a dog run, storage areas and an office.   

Wanda Groves, K-9 Companion Specialist, provided an obedience training exhibition, as well. 

“K-9 Companion Specialist believes all dogs should have a fair chance in life.” said Groves. “I have so many come for training that have been surrendered to the shelter due to bad behavior, when all in all they were just being dogs. They also deserve to be in a nice shelter until they find their forever homes. Hopefully Minden will have their great new facility soon.”

This first fundraiser brought in a total of $3,275, which will be added to the $75,000 that the city was recently granted from the state. The total funds needed for the project to move forward is $350,000.  

Chairman’s birthday was a great kick start with more events to come.  

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Benton 12, Doyline 2

Doyline Panthers fell behind early and couldn’t come back in a 12-2 loss to Benton on Saturday. Benton scored on a single by Preston Hill and a single by Kade Davis in the first inning.

The Panthers struggled to contain the high-powered offense of Benton, giving up 12 runs.

Benton scored five runs in the second inning. Benton offense in the inning was led by Sam Dominick and Davis, all driving in runs in the inning.

Colby Leeper led the Benton to victory on the hill. Leeper lasted three and a third innings, allowing one hit and two runs while striking out eight and walking one. R Bruton and T Allen entered the game out of the bullpen and helped to close out the game in relief.

Caysten Mingo took the loss for Doyline. The pitcher, Cayden Mingo went 1-for-3 at the plate to lead the team in hits.

Benton tallied seven hits in the game. Davis and Dominick all managed multiple hits for Benton.

North DeSoto 11, Minden 6

Both pitching staffs had their hands full on Friday in a high-scoring affair where North DeSoto bested Minden Crimson Tide 11-6.

North DeSoto opened up scoring in the first inning when Jakobe Jackson’s wild pitch allowed one run to score for North DeSoto.

North DeSoto took the lead for good with five runs in the third inning. In the third an error scored one run for North DeSoto, Williams singled on a 0-1 count, scoring one run, an error scored two runs for North DeSoto, and Morris doubled on a 2-1 count, scoring one run.

Richardson was credited with the victory for North DeSoto. The hurler went three innings, allowing four runs on two hits and striking out six. Morris, Williams, and Dalton Hill all put in work in relief out of the bullpen, steering their team towards the victory.

Jackson took the loss for the Tide. Jackson allowed six hits and ten runs over three and a third innings, striking out four.

Minden Crimson Tide smacked one home run on the day. Jackson had a long ball in the fourth inning.

Jackson, Brody Bower, Brandon Winston, and Andrew Cooper all had one hit to lead the Tide.

North DeSoto racked up eight hits. Ashley and Morris each racked up multiple hits for North DeSoto. Ashley went 3-for-4 at the plate to lead North DeSoto in hits.

Lakeside 18, North Webster 5

North Webster Knights watched the game slip away early and couldn’t recover in an 18-5 loss to Lakeside on Thursday. Lakeside scored on a single by Bradley Dick, a single by Jake Wilkins, and a single by Cooper Chase in the first inning.

North Webster struggled to put runs on the board and had a tough time defensively containing Lakeside, giving up 18 runs.

Lakeside scored five runs in the second inning. Lakeside’s big inning was driven by a single by Wilkins, by Dick, and a double by Chase.

Chase took the win for Lakeside. Chase lasted two innings, allowing four hits and four runs while walking zero. Cade Bailey, Jordan Isbell, and Wilkins all put in work in relief out of the bullpen, steering their team towards the victory.

Mason Haynes took the loss for North Webster Knights. The pitcher surrendered 14 runs on eight hits over two and a third innings, striking out one.

Lakeside mashed two home runs on the day. Dick went deep in the third inning. CJ Watts had a homer in the third inning.

North Webster racked up seven hits. Cooper Sanders and Haynes all collected multiple hits. Haynes and Sanders each collected two hits to lead the Knights.

Lakeside racked up nine hits in the game. Dick, Chase, and Wilkins all managed multiple hits for Lakeside. Jon Jon Dick led Lakeside with two stolen bases, as they ran wild on the base paths with seven stolen bases.

North DeSoto 12, Minden 1

Minden Crimson Tide watched the game slip away early and couldn’t recover in a 12-1 loss to North DeSoto on Wednesday. North DeSoto took the lead on a single in the first inning.

The Tide struggled to put runs on the board and had a tough time defensively containing North DeSoto, giving up 12 runs.

North DeSoto opened up scoring in the first inning. North DeSoto scored one run when Richardson singled.

North DeSoto scored four runs in the fifth inning. North DeSoto’s big inning was driven by a triple by Mathews, a single by Ashley, and a double by Dalton Hill.

Mangum led things off on the hill for North DeSoto. The hurler went six innings, allowing one run on three hits, striking out nine and walking zero.

Brody Bower was on the hill for Minden. The righty went four innings, allowing six runs on five hits, striking out three and walking one. Zander Rowell threw two innings in relief out of the bullpen.

The Tide smacked one home run on the day. Jakobe Jackson had a four bagger in the fourth inning.

Jackson, Brandon Winston, and Landyn Huddleston each collected one hit to lead Minden.

North DeSoto totaled 11 hits in the game. Richardson, LaBlanc, and Hill each racked up multiple hits for North DeSoto. Richardson led North DeSoto with three hits in four at bats. North DeSoto didn’t commit a single error in the field. Ashley had the most chances in the field with nine.

*Powered by Narrative Science and GameChanger Media.

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4-H Grant Walker registration deadline has been extended. 

4-H Camp is for 4th-6th grade 4-H’ers, and there are two camp options this year: Lake Bistineau July 12-14 and/or Grant Walker July 25-28.

Call 318-371-1371 today to get more information on how to register.

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United Christian Assistance Program has the following needs for this week:

Food: Ramen noodles, cornbread mix, biscuit mix, canned fruit

Household goods: king and queen sheets, towels

Clothing: men’s socks, men’s 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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Special thanks to speakers for last week’s Lions Club meeting! Trish Krouse Hayes, a descendant of the original Germantown Colony settlers, spoke about Saturday’s Germantown Bluegrass Festival at the Minden Fairgrounds. The event will feature an impressive lineup of musical talent. A complimentary shuttle bus will run back and forth from the Fairgrounds to the Germantown Colony Museum every 30 minutes from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

Next, Johnnye Kennon from the Webster Parish Convention and Visitor’s Commission highlighted other weekend events such as the ASA Pro-Am National Archery Competition at Camp Minden, Burn Run, Scottish Tartan Festival, and the Green Thumb Jamboree Seminar and Plant Sale. 

Tommy McGee, Louisiana Military Department Wildlife Agent at Camp Minden, provided more details on the archery competition and the site preparations leading up to Saturday’s televised event. 

It was a great weekend full of fun events in Webster Parish!

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The following arrests were made by local law enforcement agencies. Minden Police Department (MPD), Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office (WPSO), Louisiana State Police (LSP) and others which are named.

April 11

Jennifer Marie Crook, 41, of the 600 block of Spring Street, Taylor, Ark., was arrested by Springhill Police for monetary instrument abuse.

April 18

Jared S. Coleman, 31, of the 400 block of 5th SE St., Springhill, was arrested by Springhill Police for violation of a protective order.

April 21

Kavion Hill, 18, of the 800 block of Woods St., Minden, was arrested by MPD on warrants of illegal use of weapons during a crime of violence and aggravated criminal damage to property (felony).

Laurie Marie Fish, 39, of the 700 block of Goodwill St., Minden, was arrested by MPD for felony resisting an officer with violence and on a warrant for disturbing the peace (language).

April 22

Randy D. Dyck, 32, of the 1200 block of Old Hwy. 7, Cotton Valley, was arrested by Probation & Parole on warrants for probation violation and simple battery.

April 23

Determine Lewis, 22, of the 300 block of Nelson, Springhill, was arrested by Springhill Police for possession f 24 grams of marijuana.

David Fowler, 51, of the 100 block of McDade St., Sibley, was arrested on a warrant through WPSO for inactive supervision.

Victoria Bertel, 38, of the 200 block of Pearl St., Minden, was arrested by MPD for possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, disturbing the peace (intoxication) and introducing contraband into a holding facility.

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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Mt. Lebanon Historical Society’s annual Stagecoach Trail Day fundraiser will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at the Stagecoach Trail Museum south of Gibsland. The Country Store will serve gourmet hot dogs, snacks, desserts and soft drinks.

Events include cakewalks with music by DJ John Cole, a large silent auction and a quilt raffle. A beautiful queen-size Nine Patch Quilt, made by Nona Sale, has been donated by Beth and Steve Fontenot. Raffle tickets are $1 each, and the drawing will be held at 3 p.m. You do not need to be present to win. Make plans to attend! This is an important fundraiser for the local museum.

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April 26

4:30 p.m. Children’s Dept., Minden Main branch of the Webster Parish Library. First book club discussion. Snacks will be provided. Children will vote on the next books. All children are welcome.

5:30 p.m. Children will put on their detective caps to investigate a crime scene in “The Case of the Missing Pearl.” Then they will interview suspects to find the culprit. Minden Main branch of the Webster Parish Library. 

April 30

9 a.m. until sold out. Minden Lions will be selling their famous charbroiled chicken dinners for $10 each in the back of the Walmart parking lot close to Homer Road. Tickets are not necessary. Show up, pay $10 and get a to-go plate. Usually sold out by noon so come early. They begin boxing dinners by 9:30 a.m.

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 5

10 a.m., Minden Planning Commission, Pelican Room, Minden City Hall. On the agenda is the request from Minden City Council for reconsideration and clarification of the MPC’s decision for a zoning request by MGM Development Group.

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.

Parkway Baptist Church is hosting “Jamming for Jesus.”

May 14

11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Jamming for Jesus, Parkway Baptist Church, 16016 U.S. Hwy. 79 in Minden, La. If you play an instrument, bring it and jam with us. Spectators please bring lawn chairs. The event will be outdoors. If you have any questions please call Janice Lewis at 318-245-2990

May 21

10 a.m. until noon: Free Pet Vaccines. 202 W. Church St., Springhill. Canine and feline vaccinations available. Sponsored by LaMa.

• 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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Kenneth George Cunningham

May 25, 1943 – March 30, 2022

Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 14, 2022 at Broadmoor United Methodist Church

Memorial Service: 11 a.m. Saturday, May 14, 2022 at Broadmoor United Methodist Church

Christine E. Whittington

June 20, 1968 – April 12, 2022

Visitation: 8:30 until 10:15 a.m. Friday, May 6, 2022 at RoseNeath Funeral Home, Marksville

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Friday, May 6, 2022 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Marksville

Burial: Holy Ghost Catholic Cemetery

** 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

In an effort to bring in more tourists, Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission has entered into a lease/purchase agreement with the Miller-Inabnett family to purchase approximately 11 acres between the back of the Minden Civic Center and Sheppard Street.

“It will be a great place to expand out, have food trucks … there are endless possibilities,” said Nick Cox, CVC member. “We for sure want to use it to generate more tourism in Webster Parish. The commission is leaning toward a festival plaza.” 

Funds for the $500,000 acquisition are in Webster Parish CVC’s reserves, Cox said.

“It’s money that has been collected from the hotel/motel tax,” he added.

That money is required by State Revised Statute 33:457.1 to generate tourism through “the commission for the purposes of attracting conventions and tourists into the area of the jurisdiction of the commission, or as provided by the proposition dedicating the proceeds of the sales and use tax. The commission shall have authority to spend money for advertising, promotion, and publication of information.”

“The funds can be utilized to a limited degree right away,” Cox said. “We’ve got to make sure we have all our safety precautions in place. In a very short time, we will be able to utilize it by having a grand opening with food trucks.”

There are limitations due to lack of infrastructure. But Cox said that will change shortly, too.

“Water and electricity there are a high priority,” he added.

“Downtown Minden festivals have grown significantly over the past few years and Miller Quarters will be a wonderful addition to our city by providing visitors with more space to gather, celebrate and enjoy the beauty and hospitality of our community,” said Serena Gray, Webster Parish CVC CEO. 

CVC works with the state as well as the Webster Parish Police Jury. All board appointments must be approved by the jury. Decisions such as the property acquisition are made solely by the commission, Cox said.

“Excitement is abuzz as we begin to formally open the newly established park at Miller Quarters,” said Johnnye Kennon, administrative assistant for Webster Parish CVDC. “We now have an additional outdoor gathering space to host a variety of events to be enjoyed by both Minden residents and visitors for years to come.”

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Word filterin’ uphill to the ol’ rockin’ chair is that we have a bunch of new wannabe baddie pie gangstas (i.e., gangsters) in town going by the handle CHS. We understand from some in the local constabulary this is acronymic for “Cold Hearted Steppas.” 

For those who don’t speak slang, steppa is loosely defined as a badman, a gangster; someone who won’t take disrespect and steps up and does something about it. Most often, as we learned from a pretty well-informed source, that “doing something” can involve gunshots or “bustin a cap” in or at somebody.

Well, swell, we might say. Another gang in our little corner of the world. Pas si vite, mon ami. This petulant passel is unique. Alleged CHS groupies reportedly run from 12 to 16 years old. That’s what local lawmen disclosed after investigating an incident where a vehicle received a couple of bullet holes for daring to drive on a city street.

We hear these wannabes have a burning desire to be like their grownup (ages 20 or so) counterparts. Wonder if these youngstas know what a low bar they’re setting for themselves. But what the heck. A trigger finger knows no age and a weapon is only as smart as the one in possession. In this case, that means both are stone steel stupid.

There’s a little question lingering. Are we more upset by the fact that some yet-to-be-formed 12-year-old brain is thinking how great it is to shoot at somebody, or should we be miffed that a 12-year-old is able to get out in the wee hours of the morning, unnoticed, unsupervised, and get his shots off?

What we really want to know is whether or not this incident is worthy of causing our city leadership, questionable as it may be, to reconsider a juvenile curfew that was proposed and poo-pooed some time ago. We are very aware that curfews are controversial, but an understaffed and overworked police department like ours needs a tool (no reference to council members intended).

We were not much amused during the long ago curfew debate when a local parent proclaimed that a curfew was a violation of civil rights both for the child and parents. Parents, the speaker claimed, had the right to let their children roam the streets at any hour if they wished, and kids should be allowed to go about their business (or nastiness) with parental permission.

At the Rocker farm, that’s called bovine splatter. Parents who don’t care how their actions and those of their kids impact others are halitosis on the breath of decency. This new kiddie group is steppin’ up and steppin’ out thanks to adults with a givvacrap quotient of minus ten. Asininic adults combined with disrespectant delinquents equals a societal problem of gargantuan proportions. 

We think the curfew issue needs to be readdressed, and opponents should weigh their options. Do our city muthas and fathas want the expected influx of HGTV-inspired visitors to be introduced to the same amenities they’d find in the big city? You know, like a drive-by shooting or two. 

Are we proud that our fair city is progressive enough to allow the youngest among us to roam freely, especially late night and early morning, without fear of being harassed by either elder or authority? We know Minden never will be Mayberry but it doesn’t have to be Chicago. Or does it? Do eyes have to close permanently before some are opened?

Civil rights are a crucial part of our way of life. But when those become avenues to civil wrongs, a little fine-tuning is in order. 

Next time: Big dollars for Quarters, or how to love a scenic drainage ditch.

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By Sophie Edwards

Courtesy of the Lincoln Parish Journal

This June, Parish Journals columnist and Louisiana Tech University writer and editor Teddy Allen will be inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame for his work as a sports journalist and broadcaster.

“It’s an unexpected honor to be included with so many people I’ve admired for a long time and many I’ve gotten to know and grown to love,” Allen said. “Extra special since in high school I was voted ‘Most Likely To Dangle A Participle.’”

Allen graduated from Louisiana Tech with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in English. Today, he is still connected to his alma mater as the University’s senior writer in the Office of University Communications and as a broadcaster for Tech football.

“Teddy is truly deserving of this honor,” said Tonya Oaks Smith, Executive Director of University Communications for Tech. “If you’re talking about Louisiana Tech and sports – no matter where you are in this state – people will inevitably ask about Teddy Allen.”

Aside from his work at Tech, Allen has also written three books, served on the committee for the Sports Hall of Fame for more than 20 years, and, besides his current weekly columns with LPJ, has worked as a columnist for the Shreveport Journal, Shreveport Times, and Times-Picayune.

“Teddy’s selection was inevitable,” Doug Ireland, chairman of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, said. “He is one of Louisiana’s greatest journalism talents of all time. He has informed, entertained, and captivated thousands of people through his writing and has been a great encouragement and friend to those of us who are lucky enough to know him.”

Throughout his career, Allen has received awards including the Associated Press Sports Editors National Feature Writing Award, Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Story of the Year, and the Ernie Pyle Award.

“I’m grateful for so many who trusted me and, without having a really good reason to, just gave me a chance to do this,” Allen said. “And there’s a deep appreciation for all the people I’ve worked with; this was always a team game.”

Teddy Allen is known in his field for being a “team player” who is always working to bring everyone together.

“Teddy’s a glue guy,” Ireland said. “He bonds together people of different backgrounds and makes everyone feel valued. He’s also a knucklehead; there’s not a pretentious bone in his body.”

While Teddy has served on the selection committee for the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, he has also used his comedy skills for almost 15 years as the master of ceremonies for the induction.

“He has had Payton Manning and Shaquille O’Neal rolling,” Ireland said. “But his impact stretches far beyond those few hours on a Saturday night in June. He helped refine the operations and mission for both the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and the Louisiana Sports Writers Association.”

“I am honored and privileged to just get to do this work,” Allen said, “to be around the arena and with people who care about what they’re doing and how they do it.”

The 2022 Induction Celebration will be held in Natchitoches from June 23-25. Order tickets online at lasportshall.com/gettickets.

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The Minden Fairgrounds will be the site for sound during the annual Germantown Bluegrass Festival.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday, April 23 and feature such talent as Gent Mountain Grass Burrs, Caden Wilson, Amanda Roberts, Ben Shirley, Monday Night Jammers, James Sandidge & Friends and Dr. Squeak. Sandidge will also act as master of ceremonies.

Entry fee is $5 for adults, $1 for ages 5 to 12 and free for children under 5. Bleachers are available or feel free to bring a lawn chair.

According to Friends of the Germantown Colony Museum, a complementary shuttle bus to Germantown from the fairgrounds will run every 30 minutes from 10:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Sponsors include Gibsland Bank & Trust, Wild Thang Custom Meats, Coca Cola Bottling Co. of Minden, Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission and Petro-Chem Operating.

Funds collected from the festival go to upkeep and improvements to the Germantown Colony Museum.

For more information, contact Catharine Poole (318) 382-2140 or Janet Sanders at (318) 927-6961.

*Funding provided in part by the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission.

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Burnie S. Coker

Funeral services for Burnie S. Coker will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, April 22, 2022, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Minden, La. with Bro. Brett Cook officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Plain Dealing, La. The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, April 21, 2022, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Minden.

Burnie was born August 17, 1935 in Plain Dealing, Louisiana and entered rest April 18, 2022 in Minden, Louisiana. Burnie graduated Valedictorian of her class at Rocky Mount High School and retired as church secretary at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Minden. She loved her family, sports, Skipbo and Scrabble, gospel music and her RV in Minden. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis Ray Coker, Sr.; parents, Curley and Gurthie Smith; son-in-law, Ronnie Holliday; sisters, Mary Ellen Edwards and husband Roy, Helen Horton and husband Buddy; baby Christina Smith; and her sister-in-law, Betty Smith.

She is survived by her sons, Lewis Ray Coker, Jr. and Ronnie Coker (Kelly) of Bossier City; daughters, Mickey Hamilton (Joe) of Benton, Vickey Holliday and Penny Morgan (Danny) of Minden; grandchildren, Johnathon (Paige), Ali, Joey (Taylor), Christy (John), Jami, Peyton (Peyton), Nate, Abby, and Hunter; great-grandchildren, Zoi, Baylee, Bo, Luke, Morgan, Madelyn, Emerson, Ashton, Kameron and Liam; brother, Kenneth Smith of Bossier City; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Grandsons will be pallbearers.

The family extends a special thanks to Professional Home Health, Minden HomeCare, and Dr. Sanjay Shah and staff.

Donations may be made in memory of Burnie to “Win the Day Foundation,” 1743 Suite D Swan Lake Road, Bossier City, La 71111.

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Louisiana Society Daughters of the American Revolution held their annual State Conference on March 17-19, 2022, at the historic Bentley Hotel in Alexandria. Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter Regent Kathy Johnson and Chapter Vice Regent Cindy Madden represented our chapter at the conference. This year, DAR’s President General Denise Doring VanBuren attended the Louisiana State Conference and gave the keynote address during the opening night ceremony.  Special guest Robert Freeland presented “Louisiana’s Islenos: The Legacy of Bernardo de Galvez.” DAR members and their spouses enjoyed breakfast socials, luncheons, a formal night, cocktail hour, photography sessions, shopping, and a ghost tour of the hotel.

During the Awards Luncheon, our chapter received an American History Certificate of Excellence for our Christmas meeting. Cindy Madden received a Certificate of Recognition for her Constitution Week Program, a Superior Award for Service to Veterans (mailing birthday cards to veterans’ homes each month), and a Historian Award for her participation in a wreath ceremony at the grave of Jethro Butler, a Revolutionary War soldier who is buried in Claiborne Parish.  She also received a graduation cord for completing the DAR Members Course. Donna Sutton, our chapter Registrar, received a Lineage Research Certificate of Recognition for locating and documenting 4 previously unknown Revolutionary War patriots to be added to the DAR database. She also received a Certificate of Recognition for Recruitment for bringing 3 new members into our chapter.  

Any woman 18 years or older who can prove lineal, bloodline descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence is eligible to join DAR. Please visit dar.org for more information, and Like our Facebook page: Daughters of the American Revolution – Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter

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The following arrests were made by local law enforcement agencies. Minden Police Department (MPD), Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office (WPSO), Louisiana State Police (LSP) and others which are named.

April 18

Justin Elkins, 22, of the 300 block of Morgan St., Sarepta, was arrested by Cullen Police on a warrant for felony theft.

Joseph Peace, 28, of the 100 block of Mill Pond Rd., Springhill, was arrested by Cullen Police for felony theft.

April 19

Skylar Dwaine Elkins, 21, of Sarepta, was arrested by Sarepta Police for possession of marijuana, illegal use of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence a minor, domestic abuse with child endangerment and resisting with force.

Kelvin Thomas, 25, of Haughton, was arrested by WPSO for careless operation of a motor vehicle and resisting an officer.

Ahmodziondre Bailey, 18, of Sarepta, was arrested by Springhill Police for illegal use of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Morris James Kearney, 35, of the 1800 block of Blue Run Rd., Minden, was arrested by Probation & Parole for a probation violation. Original charge: domestic abuse aggravated assault.

April 20

Shondreka D. McGlothern, 29, of the 600 block of East St., Minden, was arrested by Probation & Parole for a probation violation. Original charge: negligent homicide.

Brittania Bailey, 28, of the 1200 block of Shreveport Rd., Minden, was arrested by Probation & Parole for a probation violation.

Randavious Mosley, 28, of the 100 block of Shreveport Rd., Minden, was arrested by Probation & Parole for a parole violation.

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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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

8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Hearts & Hands/MA-6 Sunday school class at First Baptist Church Minden will host a large rummage sale in the parking lot next to Family Life Center, facing Broadway.

7 a.m. until 11 a.m. Salt and Light Rummage Sale, 319 Pennsylvania Avenue, Minden next to First Baptist Church. A lot of everything! Furniture, Holiday, Home decor, dishes, etc. You don’t want to miss this one, great prices!

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 Fairgrounds.

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

April 30

9 a.m. until sold out. Minden Lions will be selling our famous charbroiled chicken dinners for $10 each in the back of the Walmart parking lot close to Homer Road.

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 5

10 a.m., Minden Planning Commission, Pelican Room, Minden City Hall. On the agenda is the request from Minden City Council for reconsideration and clarification of the MPC’s decision for a zoning request by MGM Development Group.

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.

Parkway Baptist Church is hosting “Jamming for Jesus”

May 14

11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Jamming for Jesus, Parkway Baptist Church, 16016 U.S. Hwy. 79 in Minden, La. If you play an instrument, bring it and jam with us. Spectators please bring lawn chairs. The event will be outdoors. If you have any questions please call Janice Lewis at 318-245-2990

May 21

10 a.m. until noon: Free Pet Vaccines. 202 W. Church St., Springhill. Canine and feline vaccinations available. Sponsored by LaMa.

• 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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This year, for their 7th annual W.H.O. Matters event, the group is paying tribute to the woman who has actually done it all (and in heels, mind you), Barbie!

Women Helping Others of NW is a group of women from all walks of life who have come together to plan, organize and provide community service and support to the citizens of north Webster Parish. Throughout each year, the group is able to bless numerous individuals and families in need, and it is their desire to continue with this mission for years to come.

W.H.O. Matters is the flagship event where the group raises the bulk of the annual funds used to help others.

W.H.O. Matters Gala is a girls’ night out where women from far and wide will gather for a night of entertainment and festivities. Monetary and/or prize donations for the 2022 Dolls & Dreams event are being sought at this time.

Whether you’re a cowgirl veterinarian or a glamour girl in a Bob Mackie original, come represent your friend group, social club or business by purchasing a table for $400.

Dolls & Dreams will be held October 15. Donations are due by October 3.

For donations and pick-ups, contact Amber Cobb at 318-423-3710, Sasha Odom at 318-936-0903 or Casey Warford at 318-578-1288. Contact any of these ladies for a business, individual or table sponsorship.

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