Guest speaker for this Thursday’s noon meeting of the Minden Lions Club will be Rhonda Johnson. She will speak on how the Barksdale Warriors Association and National Wildlife Turkey Federation (NWTF) assist our physically-challenged veterans. 

Rhonda serves as the chapter president of the Dorcheat Bayou Gobblers Chapter of the NWTF, state board treasurer and coordinator of the North Louisiana Wheelin’ Sportsmen. She also serves on the Barksdale Warriors board. Rhonda has received numerous awards for her volunteerism, including a three-year recipient of the Mossy Oak Pro Staff of the Year; NWTF National Volunteer of the Year; NWTF National Wheelin’ Sportsman Volunteer of the Year; and the NWTF National Lynn Boykin Award. In 2019, she was inducted into the Louisiana Legends of the Outdoors Hall of Fame.

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

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Do you enjoy meeting new people and greeting old friends?

You may be perfect for an account executive’s position with the Webster Parish Journal. You don’t have to fit a particular profile, you just need to be as passionate about spreading the news as those with whom you will be working.

WPJ subscriptions are – and always will be – free. We depend on businesses and advertising to help us meet our goals and keep the public informed.

Contact us at wpjnewsla@gmail.com, if this describes you.

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June 27 – July 1

9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. daily, VBS – Zoomerang, ages 4 years through 6th grade Beech Springs Baptist Church, 15910 HWY 80, Minden. Register at https://beechspringsbc.myanswers.com/zoomerang or through their Facebook page.

June 29

10 a.m. Magic Show with Magician David LeBoeuf at Minden Main Branch of the Webster Parish Library. Registration required.

11:30 a.m. Magic Workshop. Registration required; Minden Main Branch.

2:30 p.m. Magic Show at Springhill Branch of the library. Registration required.

4 p.m. Magic Workshop at Springhill  Registration required.

June 30

8 a.m. Minden City Council Workshop. Agenda: 2022/2023 budget. Pelican Conference Room, Minden City Hall. Public is invited to attend.

2 p.m. Magic Show with Magician David LeBoeuf at Doyline Branch of the Webster Parish Library.  Registration required.

July 7

10 a.m. Minden Planning Commission Meeting, Pelican Room, Minden City Hall. On the agenda is a request from Carlton Myles Jr. (owner of Bayou Brothers, LLC) for a zoning change from R-4 (Multifamily Residential) to B-4 (Hwy. Commercial) on property owned by them located at the corner of Lee and Columbia Streets (6 lots).

July 16

9 a.m. registration, 10 a.m. Louisiana Christian University Football Camps. All camps at Wildcat Stadium in Pineville. Cost $40/$50 walk-up.

August 9

6:30 p.m. New Student Orientation at Glenbrook Multipurpose Building.

August 10

6:30 p.m. Grades 7-12,”Hot Dog We’re Back at School,” schedules to be distributed at this meeting. Glenbrook Multipurpose Building.

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 Brad Dison

In late July, 1923, Vice President of the United States Calvin Coolidge was greatly relieved by news that President Warren Harding was recovering splendidly from his bout of pneumonia at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco.  Calvin was spending time at his summer home, his boyhood home, in Springfield, Vermont.  While taking a break from the politics of Washington, D.C., he performed amateur tree surgery on the beautiful old shade tree in his front yard.  He paid no attention to reporters and looky-loos as he concentrated on his work.  

On the afternoon of August 2, President Harding’s physicians sent Calvin a telegram and reassured him of the president’s health.  The Coolidge home had neither electricity nor a telephone.  At about 10:30 p.m. that night, Calvin went to bed.  Shortly after midnight on August 3, another messenger arrived by car at the Coolidge residence.  Calvin was in bed asleep when his father, John C. Coolidge, awoke him.  Calvin knew something was wrong by the sound of numerous cars pulling up at the normally tranquil home.  John read the telegram to Calvin: “The president died instantly while conversing with members of his family at 7:30 p.m.  The physicians report death was apparently due to some brain embolism, probably apoplexy.”  He immediately returned a telegram to Mrs. Harding: “We offer you our deepest sympathy.  May God bless you and keep you.”  He, Calvin, was now President of the United States.  

The news was a great blow to Calvin, though he took it with his characteristic calmness.  He dressed immediately and descended the stairs to the sitting room where an army of reporters had already gathered.  They could detect no difference in Calvin’s demeanor, as was his nature.  He calmly told the reporters, “Reports have reached me, which I fear are correct, that President Harding is gone.  The world has lost a great and good man.  I mourn his loss.  He was my chief and my friend.”  

Within half an hour, the Coolidge residence, which was normally a quiet and lonely farm house became “a mecca for hundreds.”  By 1:30 a.m., a telephone was installed at the Coolidge residence.  Calvin called Washington and received instructions on how to perform the oath of office.  He learned that he needed a notary public to administer the oath of office.  Just then, a congressman arrived with two federal employees to act as bodyguards.  Calvin’s father, John, a notary public, held a brief swearing in ceremony in his own home.  Calvin’s father beamed as he spoke in a trembling voice, “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”  A reporter asked Calvin’s father to describe his feelings while swearing in his son to which he replied, “One would not say that he was elated to have the President die.”  

Calvin’s first act as president after the swearing in was… to return to bed.  The two federal employees turned bodyguards stood on either side of the door to Calvin’s bedroom to ensure that no one disturbed the president and first lady.  Cars came and went as Calvin slept.  Reporters waited quietly but impatiently outside the Coolidge home.  Finally, at 7:20 a.m., Calvin looked out the front door.  Reporters bombarded him with questions, but Calvin spoke not a word.  Calvin bowed at them indifferently, posed for a few photographs, and went back inside.   Ten minutes later, Calvin and several others were “taken by motor car” to a special train which delivered him to the White House.  

Becoming president upon the death of a previous president had its challenges.  Everyone, especially Calvin, understood that he had not been selected by the people to become president.  That changed when he won the 1924 election.  Calvin strongly supported women’s suffrage and equality.  The economy during his presidency, one of rapid and expansive growth, became known as the “Roaring Twenties.” Calvin preferred to take a hands-off government approach and lived up to his nickname “Silent Cal Coolidge” as he seemingly only spoke out of necessity. 

In 1927, Calvin took everyone by surprise when he told reporters in as few words as possible, “I do not choose to run for president in 1928.”  Reporters gasped.  Calvin briefly explained, “”If I take another term, I will be in the White House till 1933. Ten years in Washington is longer than any other man has had it – too long.”

Following his presidency, Calvin published an autobiography and wrote a syndicated newspaper column entitled, “Calvin Coolidge Says.”  The columns most certainly were brief.  Just after noon on January 5, 1933, Calvin’s wife returned from shopping and found the former president unconscious on his dressing room floor.  A sudden heart attack struck as he was preparing to shave and he fell to the floor.  Although several people were present in the home at the time of his death, no one heard Calvin fall.  Even at the moment of his death, he remained silent.

On this fourth of July, as you enjoy hot dogs and burgers from the grill and drink cool refreshments, take just a moment of silence for “Silent Cal.”  Say Happy Birthday to America… and to Calvin Coolidge.  He is the only American president who was born on the fourth of July.

Sources:  

1.  Vermont Standard (Woodstock, Vermont), August 2, 1923, p.1.

2.  The Barre Daily Times (Barre, Vermont), August 2, 1923, p.7.

3.  Rutland Daily Herald (Rutland, Vermont), August 3, 1923, p.1.

4.  Burlington Daily News (Burlington, Vermont), August 3, 1923, p.1.

5.  Rutland Daily Herald (Rutland, Vermont), Ja

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By Steve Graf

Now let’s take a look at the impact of the 1980’s and 90’s, just to see how big bass fishing has become. Ray Scott (who passed away this past May) was the man who had the greatest impact and should be given the credit for everything professional bass anglers have today. Ray, from the very beginning, had a vision and wanted the sport to be on the same level as professional baseball or golf. He wanted anglers to have a career and be able to make a living while providing for their families. It was during the 80’s and 90’s that the sport of bass fishing progressed the most. 

In 1980, an Oklahoma boy by the name of Jimmy Houston kissed his first bass and, according to his wife Chris, she got used to smelly kisses from that point on. Jimmy, of course, became a household name with his successful fishing career and the TV host of “Jimmy Houston Outdoors,” still airing today as one of the longest running outdoors TV programs ever. But in 1985, there was a shakeup at the top of which was America’s favorite fish to pursue. After a national survey by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife, it was determined that the largemouth bass was now the most popular fish to catch, dropping panfish to number two. 

In 1987, working from his garage, Herb Reed created a new bass lure that took the fishing world by storm and created a whole new category for soft plastic stick baits with his creation of the Slug-Go. This was the first of its kind and would later be followed by another bait that just might be the greatest bass lure of all time…the Senko. This one was created from the mold of a Bic Pen by the legendary Gary Yamamoto. This bait has many tournament wins to name. It’s a bait that when professional anglers are asked if they could take a bait from today and go back in time, what bait would it be? Ninety five percent will say a Senko. This versatile bait catches fish all year long, in all types of conditions, and has become a staple for all serious bass fishermen.  

Moving into the 90’s, Berkley Bait Company introduces the “Power Worm” with a built in scent that fish will bite and won’t let go. The success of their scented worm encouraged other companies to do the same. It’s also a time when scent became all the rage that some thought, and still think today, is a key to catching fish. Some anglers think it’s a hoax and others believe it really works and won’t fish without adding it to their baits in some form or another. One day I asked Michigan’s Kevin Van Dam, who many consider the greatest angler of all time, if he thinks scents work. He told me, “It doesn’t matter what others think, do you believe it works?” I told him “Yes” and he said, “Then that‘s all that matters. Anglers should always fish with confidence and with things they believe in. This is what makes an angler great….confidence.”

In 1992, Arkansas’s Larry Nixon, the greatest worm fisherman ever, became the first pro angler to earn over $1 million in B.A.S.S. events. To compare, Kevin Van Dam has won over $6 million since the late 1990’s. The closest angler to Kevin is California’s Skeet Reece who is #2 on the “All Time Money List” at a little over $3 million in winnings.  

Next week, we’ll look at how the TV cable station, ESPN, changed the landscape of professional bass fishing forever. This one move to primetime TV changed the lives of professional anglers forever and exposed Americans to the sport in a way never seen before. Till next week, good luck, good fishing and don’t forget to set the hook! 

Steve Graf – Owner/Co-host

Hook’N Up & Track’N Down Show

& Tackle Talk Live 

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Fay Rabb Morgan

Feb. 22, 1930 – June 22, 2022

Visitation: Noon until 1:30 p.m. Thursday, June 30, 2022 at Bailey Funeral Home, Haynesville, La.

Graveside service: 2 p.m. Thursday, June 30, 2022 at Old Shongaloo Cemetery, Shongaloo, La.

 

Vera Joy Shepard

Dec. 25, 1932 – June 27, 2022

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, July 1, 2022 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City.

Funeral service: 1 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2022 at West Lake Baptist Church, Doyline, La.

Burial to follow at West Lake Baptist Cemetery.

 

Kenneth “Ken” Roy Grosz

Sept. 2, 1942 – June 11, 2022

Visitation: 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 5, 2022. in church parlor of First Baptist Church, 543 Oakley Dr., Shreveport, La.

Memorial Service: 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 5, 2022, in Frost Chapel, First 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

“Look, Mom, it’s a little rainbow,” said the son of April Aguilar, Human Resources director for the City of Minden. Indeed a small rainbow could be seen to the right of Minden Medical Center and the window of the room where Minden Mayor Terry Gardner remained hospitalized Monday evening.

For the second time in as many months, a large number of people  – around 75-80 – gathered to pray for the mayor and his wife, Debbie.

Gardner suffers from pancreatic cancer and recently checked into Minden Medical Center with side effects, including pneumonia.

“At this point, it’s a God thing,” city attorney and pastor Jimbo Yocum said.

Jeff Scott, associate pastor at Living Word Worship Center told the crowd it was important to “stir up your faith.”

Debbie Gardner stood at the window of the mayor’s hospital room and waved to the crowd below in MMC’s parking lot.

“We need complete healing in Mayor Gardner’s life, but only God knows if it will come in this life or the next,” Scott prayed.

Bishop Rick Cosby quoted scripture to comfort the persons attending and prayed for the doctors attending the mayor’s needs.

At the end, Yocum prayed for the Minden City Council – for unity – as well as the community and residents of the town.

“This is everybody’s Minden,” Yocum said. “We pray for them to have special chords of wisdom.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

When Gov. John Bel Edwards signed into law House Bill 729, it dramatically changed the face of all types of media, including Webster Parish Journal.

Act 494 prohibits anyone from publishing – in print or online – booking photos of alleged criminals, with few exceptions.

“A judge can rule that a law enforcement agency can release the photo to the media if the individual is deemed to be a threat in some way,” State Rep. Wayne McMahen, R-10, said. “And if it is released, a disclaimer must be attached.”

According to the law, if a “Be On The Look Out” (BOLO) is released or the individual is on a surveillance video acting in a suspicious way and considered a threat to the community, photographs (but not booking photos) may be released.

Also, certain offenses such as sex offenses, human trafficking, offenses affecting the health and morals of minors or persons with infirmities, video voyeurism, cruelty to animals and dogfighting open the mugshot door.

“But a judge still has to sign off on it … releasing the booking photo,” McMahen said.

McMahen said he remembers the bill as being “contentious” in the legislature.

“It was a fine line,” he said. “Some felt like the law would protect the criminals, but they are all supposed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. I did vote in favor of it.”

House of Representatives approved it with 76 yeas, 21 nays and 7 absent.

The state Senate passed the bill with 32 yeas, 0 nays and 4 absent. Sen. Robert Mills, R-36 was one of the missing four.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said when a booking photo is online, it’s there forever.

“If the person is found innocent or not guilty and their record is expunged, that photo is still out there on the Internet forever,” Parker said. “So this way it’s never published in the first place.”

Parker said law enforcement has 60 days for transition.

“We are in the process of taking all our mugshots down from our sites and apps,” he said. “It will take a little time, though.”

Minden Police Chief Steve Cropper said it’s now the law so – regardless of how one feels about it –the law must be followed.

“We will continue to send photos in the case of surveillance and BOLO’s,” Cropper said. “We need the public’s help as much as possible.”

What happens if a booking photo is published by mistake? There’s a clause for that.

According to the law, the person or family of the person can request it be taken down; however, there are remove-for-pay publications and websites that may charge a fee. That fee cannot be more than $50.

Otherwise, the publication can be liable for all costs, including reasonable attorney fees resulting from any legal action that individual brings against the failure of the remove-for-pay publication or website to remove and destroy the photograph.

While the Webster Parish Journal will still publish arrest reports and stories, it ceased publishing booking photographs last week.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Webster Parish Sheriff’s investigators have solved a string of local firearm burglaries.

Justin Daniel Cook, 27, of the 100 block of Ella Lane, Heflin, was arrested on June 21 on 2 counts of simple burglary and 3 counts of simple burglary of a firearm.

Megale M. Dawson, 31, of the 100 block of W. Roosevelt St, Minden, is charged with possession of firearms by a convicted felon, illegal possession of stolen firearms, possession of stolen things, possession of firearms in the presence of controlled dangerous substances and a parole hold.

Sheriff Jason Parker said both men were arrested recently.

“We didn’t let Cook’s name out at the time because we were still trying to recover some of the items,” Parker said. “One of the burglaries was in Heflin and the other was off Holloman Loop Road.”

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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By Paige Nash

It’s not a secret that our reigning Miss Minden, Anna Claire Lemoine, is beautiful, classy, sophisticated and super talented. These attributes along with a lot of hard work earned her a third runner up placing at the 2022 Miss Louisiana Pageant this month.  

Anna Claire also has a heart for volunteering. This passion began when she was very young through witnessing her grandparents, Steve and Janis Bryan, serve as members of the Minden Civitan Club. The club was established in 1941 and was founded to specifically help the developmentally disabled within our community through special projects. These projects include their yearly Civitan Santa event and the Special Kid’s Day at the fair. The Minden Civitan Club is also a great supporter of Special Olympics.  

“Through their volunteering I was able to see just how important volunteering is for athletes with intellectual, as well as physical disabilities,” said Lemoine. 

After beginning her freshman year at Glenbrook School, Anna Claire began working with their Junior Civitan Club, which gave her the opportunity to volunteer her time in support of track meets and bowl-a-thon events for the Special Olympics. 

When she was deciding on what her social impact platform for Miss Louisiana would be, Special Olympics was an obvious choice. Special Olympics relies heavily on supporters and volunteers to make their mission possible, which is to provide training and competition sports for children and adults with disabilities, while simultaneously promoting acceptance and inclusion. 

“Since being crowned Miss Minden, I of course had the honor and opportunity to compete for Miss Louisiana, but I have also had other local opportunities,” Lemoine said. She has been able to volunteer at the annual St. Jude fundraiser and 5k, the grand opening of Miller Quarters Park and serve as a guest judge for local school pageants.  

“I think one of the greatest opportunities though is to serve as a role model for younger girls and specially to help mentor my Fleur de Lis Princesses who accompanied me to Miss Louisiana,” said Lemoine. 

What’s next for our Miss Minden? Anna Claire will be attending Louisiana State University in the fall, majoring in Pre-Dental. She will also be continuing her journey within Miss Louisiana in hopes to further expand upon her platform and assist in helping develop the organization.  

“I am certainly enjoying my time as Miss Minden, and I am looking forward to competing for another title again next season,” said Lemoine.  

You haven’t seen the last of her yet. 

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I am NO fan of blue cheese.  At all.  I passed up this recipe quite a few times but then thought, ok, let me try this.  It was such a hit, and even I could not detect the blue cheese in the flavor!  This is a super popular recipe at the beachside restaurants in Florida.  So if you aren’t beachside, you can at least make this and pretend that you are!  It is absolutely delicious.

Ingredients:

• French bread baguette

• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

• Liberal shakes of garlic powder

• 1/3 cup blue cheese dressing

• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

• 2 cups Italian cheese

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Chopped fresh parsley

Directions:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Cut baguette in half lengthwise and spread melted butter on each side. Sprinkle liberally with garlic powder. Spread dressing on each half. Top with tomatoes, cheese, salt, pepper and parsley. Bake 10-12 minutes. 

*Recipe from Cookies & Cups.

(Ashley Madden Rowton is a wife, mom and cookbook author.)

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The City of Minden has an IMMEDIATE NEED

FT ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT

This is a clerical position that requires the use of various accounting software programs to track and reconcile a wide range of financial transactions. 

Responsible for maintaining financial records, ensuring payments and receivables are current. Involved in a wide range of activities/functions in the City Clerk’s office including heavy in-house payroll responsibilities.

Education and/or Experience:

·         High School diploma or GED required.

·         Post-secondary education with focused course work in accounting and bookkeeping preferred.

·         One to two years administrative, clerical and accounting experience required, preferably with city government.  Experience involving governmental funds or related accounts desirable.

Work hours:  7:30am-4pm Monday-Friday

Location: City Hall, Minden, Louisiana

Benefits:   HEALTH, DENTAL, VISION BENEFITS, RETIREMENT, PAID HOLIDAYS & SICK/VACATION LEAVE

Starting pay:  $15.76/hr. D.O.E.

To apply or view a brief job description go online www.mindenla.org/job-listings/ or pick up an application at City Hall, 520 Broadway, Minden, Louisiana. 

Background and drug screen will be conducted.

The City of Minden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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The Minden Lions would like to thank Mandi Hart from Minden Medical Center for sharing with us about “The Circle” program today during its noon club meeting. The Circle is a free membership program for individuals age 50 or better. Perks include a 20 percent discount in the hospital cafeteria, monthly events with guest speakers and prizes, as well as an avenue to socialize over food and fun. To join The Circle or to get more information, call Mandi Hart or Macey Colvin-Thomas at 377-2321.

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Lakeside 5, Doyline 0

Jon Jon Dick shut down the Doyline Panthers, throwing a complete game shutout and leading Lakeside to a 5-0 victory Thursday.

The Warriors got on the board in the first inning when CJ Watts singled on a 2-1 count, scoring one run.

One bright spot for Doyline was a single in the fourth inning by Dakota Stewart.

Stewart led Doyline with one hit in two at-bats.

Dick led things off on the hill for Lakeside. The pitcher surrendered zero runs on one hit over five innings, striking out six.

The Warriors racked up eight hits in the game. Cooper Chase and Watts managed multiple hits with two to lead the team.

Lakeside didn’t commit a single error in the field. Watts had six chances in the field, the most on the team.

North DeSoto 9, Lakeside 5

Lakeside Warriors lost the lead late in a 9-5 defeat to North DeSoto last Wednesday. The game was tied at five with North DeSoto batting in the bottom of the fifth when North DeSoto singled on the first pitch of the at-bat, scoring one run.

Lakeside got on the board in the first inning when an error scored one run.

North DeSoto knotted up the game at five in the bottom of the fourth inning.

After the Warriors scored one run in the top of the second, North DeSoto answered with one of their own. Lakeside scored when Peyton Gray singled on a 0-1 count, scoring one run. North DeSoto then answered when their player doubled on a 0-2 count, scoring one run.

Gray took the loss for Lakeside by allowing three runs on three hits and walking none.

Noah De Los Santos, Gray and Jordan Isbell each collected one hit to lead the Warriors, who were sure-handed in the field and didn’t commit a single error. Isbell had the most chances in the field with five.

North DeSoto 15, Lakeside 8

Both pitching staffs had their hands full Thursday in a high-scoring affair where North DeSoto bested Lakeside 15-8.

Lakeside struggled to put runs on the board and had a tough time defensively containing North DeSoto.

The Warriors opened up scoring in the first inning. Jon Jon Dick grounded out, scoring 2 runs.

North DeSoto pulled away for good with five runs in the third inning. They scored six runs in the fourth inning.

Cade Boley toed the rubber for Lakeside. The right-hander went three innings, allowing seven runs on six hits and striking out one. Jordan Isbell, Bradley Dick and Cooper Chase each contributed in relief.

The Warriors launched one home run on the day. Dick had a four-bagger in the third inning. They totaled 9 hits.

Isbell, Eli Musgraves and Chase managed multiple hits, and OIsbell led with three hits in three at-bats.

Lakeside 5, Doyline 0

Jon Jon Dick shut down the Doyline Panthers, throwing a complete game shutout and leading Lakeside to a 5-0 victory Thursday.The Warriors got on the board in the first inning when CJ Watts singled on a 2-1 count, scoring one run.

One bright spot for Doyline was a single in the fourth inning by Dakota Stewart.

Stewart led Doyline with one hit in two at-bats.

Dick led things off on the hill for Lakeside. The pitcher surrendered zero runs on one hit over five innings, striking out six.

The Warriors racked up eight hits in the game. Cooper Chase and Watts managed multiple hits with two to lead the team.

Lakeside didn’t commit a single error in the field. Watts had six chances in the field, the most on the team.

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United Christian Assistance Program needs the following items:

Food: Ramen noodles, powdered milk, cereal, crackers

Household goods: king & queen sheets, towels, cookware

Clothing: men’s short sleeve shirts

Thank you for supporting UCAP!

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

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Mt. Lebanon Historical Society will host its annual Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, July 4, at Stagecoach Trail Museum. Guest speaker will be Kevin Smith, pastor at Grace United Methodist Church in Ruston. This is a patriotic and educational event for all ages. The program will begin at 8 a.m. and conclude with breakfast at the Country Store. Please bring a covered dish breakfast.

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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.

June 23

Coleman Chandler, 23, of Bradley, Ark. was arrested by Springhill Police for domestic abuse batter with child endangerment on April 11, 2022. Judge has changed bond amount for Chandler to $1,000.

Juan J. Bush, 63, of the 7900 block of Hwy. 371, Sibley, was arrested by WPSO for domestic abuse battery.

June 24

Jacob Heckendorn, 26, of the 400 block of Smith Loop, Sarepta, was arrested by WPSO for contempt of court.

June 25

Kaleb M. Mills, 24, of the 2300 block of Butler St., Arcadia, was arrested by MPD on a warrant for theft.

June 26

Amanda Michelle Dillard, 39, of the 200 block of 1st St., Pinehill, Springhill, was arrested by Cotton Valley Police for simple battery.

Lacey Leann Holleman, 29, of the 100 block of Crownover Rd., Minden, was arrested by MPD for theft by shoplifting.

Marrico Desean Murphy, 32, of the 500 block of Humble St., Cotton Valley, was arrested by Cotton Valley Police for simple battery.

June 27

Michael Parks, 66, of Ringgold, was arrested by WPSO  for simple burglary and possession of a controlled dangerous substance.

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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Do you enjoy meeting new people and greeting old friends?

You may be perfect for an account executive’s position with the Webster Parish Journal. You don’t have to fit a particular profile, you just need to be as passionate about spreading the news as those with whom you will be working.

WPJ subscriptions are – and always will be – free. We depend on businesses and advertising to help us meet our goals and keep the public informed.

Contact us at wpjnewsla@gmail.com, if this describes you.

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June 27 – July 1

9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. daily, VBS – Zoomerang, ages 4 years through 6th grade Beech Springs Baptist Church, 15910 HWY 80, Minden. Register at https://beechspringsbc.myanswers.com/zoomerang or through their Facebook page.

June 29

10 a.m. Magic Show with Magician David LeBoeuf at Minden Main Branch of the Webster Parish Library. Registration required.

11:30 a.m. Magic Workshop. Registration required; Minden Main Branch.

2:30 p.m. Magic Show at Springhill Branch of the library. Registration required.

4 p.m. Magic Workshop at Springhill  Registration required.

June 30

8 a.m. Minden City Council Workshop. Agenda: 2022/2023 budget. Pelican Conference Room, Minden City Hall. Public is invited to attend.

2 p.m. Magic Show with Magician David LeBoeuf at Doyline Branch of the Webster Parish Library.  Registration required.

July 7

10 a.m. Minden Planning Commission Meeting, Pelican Room, Minden City Hall. On the agenda is a request from Carlton Myles Jr. (owner of Bayou Brothers, LLC) for a zoning change from R-4 (Multifamily Residential) to B-4 (Hwy. Commercial) on property owned by them located at the corner of Lee and Columbia Streets (6 lots).

July 16

9 a.m. registration, 10 a.m. Louisiana Christian University Football Camps. All camps at Wildcat Stadium in Pineville. Cost $40/$50 walk-up.

August 9

6:30 p.m. New Student Orientation at Glenbrook Multipurpose Building.

August 10

6:30 p.m. Grades 7-12,”Hot Dog We’re Back at School,” schedules to be distributed at this meeting. Glenbrook Multipurpose Building.

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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Louis “Lou” LoConte

Sept. 13, 1926 – June 22, 2022

Graveside service: 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 28, 2022, Minden Cemetery, Minden, La., under direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

 

Linda Sue Krouse

Oct. 1, 1944 – June 26, 2022

Graveside service: 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at Germantown Cemetery, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden, La.

 

Vera Joy Shepard

Dec. 25, 1932 – June 27, 2022

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, July 1, 2022 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City.

Funeral service: 1 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2022 at West Lake Baptist Church, Doyline, La.

Burial to follow at West Lake Baptist Cemetery.

 

Kenneth “Ken” Roy Grosz

Sept. 2, 1942 – June 11, 2022

Visitation: 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 5, 2022. in church parlor of First Baptist Church, 543 Oakley Dr., Shreveport, La.

Memorial Service: 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 5, 2022, in Frost Chapel, First 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 Paige Nash

Toxin results are in from a private company, contracted by the Webster Parish Police Jury. Intertek PSI Solutions performed indoor air sampling at two community services buildings owned by the jury, one of which is separated only by a 25-foot alleyway between it and the historic dry-cleaning facility, Imperial Cleaners. 

The executive Webster Parish Community Services, building located on Gleason Street, is closest in proximity to the alleyway that has had the highest detected concentrations of tetrachloroethene and trichloroethene according to most recent reports by Leaff for Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality – levels that are 1,000 times above safe levels, according to Dr. Brian Salvatore, chemistry professor at LSU-S. The administration building located on Murrell Street is approximately 195-feet northwest of Imperial Cleaners. 

Intertek is based out of Shreveport and provides testing consulting and engineering services, such as construction material testing, environmental testing and specialty testing. Before beginning their sampling, they were made aware of LDEQ’s plans to conduct their own investigation sometime this month, but the parish still opted to have the private testing completed, in order to use the results as a comparison.  

Although two and a half pages of chemicals were detected, it appears the indoor air quality concentrations were not above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Commercial Vapor Intrusion Screening Level. 

“The results from the testing showed no levels of contamination from the cleaning fluids that were historically released at the imperial Cleaner’s property that exceeded limits for commercial property,” said WPPJ President Jim Bonsall. “They believe some of the traces they found inside the building may be from excessive cleaning for Covid protection, as some of the same chemicals they were testing for are used in cleaning and disinfecting products.” 

Intertek collected 3 indoor air samples from the Gleason location and 2 from the Murrel location, from various areas of each building. They placed the canisters used to conduct the testing at a height that would be considered breathing level. They also collected two outdoor/ambient air samples from both locations, with the canisters located outside of the buildings closest to the historic dry cleaners.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Certified business sites are reportedly important to economic development.

Sarah Haynes, a Minden resident who wants local economic development, told members of the Minden City Council in a workshop Tuesday morning there are two sites on or near Industrial Drive (Service Road) that could qualify as development ready.

“We started on this project a year and three months ago,” Haynes said. “Sometime in April Louisiana Economic Development (LED) informed us that they needed to clear one acre on one site and possibly on the other.”

When Haynes, with former Minden Economic Development Director Phillip Smart, began working on the project, they did not realize that acre needed to be cleared.

“We have obtained funding for the projects – both sites,” Haynes said. “MEDC (Minden Economic Development Corporation) has contributed more than $5,000. SWID (South Webster Industrial District) has contributed more than $5,000 and SWEPCO (Southwestern Electric Power Company) has contributed $7,200.”

Now, Haynes has been tasked with locating around $10,000 to give to LED.

“That’s so if any additional things are needed, we could get that pushed across the finish line,” Haynes told the council. “The only thing they are waiting for at this point is the funding to clear the acres on the sites.

“The MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) should state that you will get the money back when the site is sold,” she continued. “It is a loan.”

One site, located on Ryans Way is owned by Kitchco, Paul Kitchens and the heirs of Judge Graydon Kitchens Jr.

The second site, on Industrial Drive, is owned by Webster Land Corporation. That group consists of Amy Mealey, Joyce Carey and Greg Carey.

“At this point and time, there have been $72,000 invested in getting both of those properties to the certification level,” Haynes said.

Advantages of LED certified businesss sites include the following:

• Development ready
• Substantial due diligence completed
• Significant site information gathered and documented
• Independent third-party engineering review
• Uncertainty and potential obstacles eliminated through enhanced site knowledge
• More competitive
• Greater marketability
• Granted priority in site proposals

“Similar cities do this all the time,” Haynes explained, “because they want the certified sites so businesses and industries will look at them. We got MEDC, SWID and SWEPCO to invest in it because it would be worth their while when the property sells.”

District A Councilman Wayne Edwards said he thought there were laws on the books that would prevent the city from making a “loan.”

“The reason we want y’all to (loan) the money to LED is so they can use that pool of money to disperse to whatever project needs to get across the finish line,” Haynes told him.

Interim City Clerk Michael Fluhr told Edwards the city has never loaned money to LED, to his knowledge.

District E Councilwoman Pam Bloxom asked Haynes if there were potential buyers for either property.

“Amy (Mealey) has a potential buyer, but this will make the site more versatile to other industries right now,” Haynes said. “I think the person looking at that property is looking at housing, which I don’t believe will pass the (Minden) planning commission because we want it zoned industrial. The Kitchco property is zoned business/commercial.”

Edwards asked if City Attorney Jimbo Yocum has seen the proposal.

“Not to my knowledge, but this is not final,” Haynes said. “When I talked to them (landowners) I said, our city cannot donate to an individual personal account. It has to be made to LED. We’re going to do this collectively, so is this an option for you (council) to give the money to LED.”

District D Councilman Michael Roy, who was present in a conference call, asked if $8,000 to $10,000 was the amount needed.

“That’s just an estimate to get one to two acres cleared,” Haynes said.

“Who in their right mind is going to clear those acres for $10,000?” Edwards asked.

“We do have one bid in, and they can do it for 10,” she said. “Three acres would’ve been $15,000.” However, bids are subject to LED approval.

“If we don’t do this, what happens?” Edwards asked.

“If we don’t get the funding, Kitchco could quite possibly get across the finish line, but I’m not sure how we are going to get across the finish line with the Industrial property.”

Haynes went on to add that LED says the two locations are prime.

“They are close to the interstate, they’re on an industrial drive, and there are plenty of major highways going north and south,” she said. “From all of the sites, these are the best looking locations.”

With all council members present at the workshop, it will likely take more study before they are ready to vote. Edwards reiterated asking for an attorney’s opinion.

“The city is not in the loan business,” District C Councilman Vincen Bradford said. “We won’t get it back until the property is sold? No interest or anything? If this takes 10 years, we just have this money out there.”

Haynes said she doesn’t feel it could be a bad investment if LED has invested $54,000 in the project.

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A person can get quite an education by attending city government meetings, but advanced degrees are available during lightly attended pre-meeting meetings like our council’s workshop session a couple of days ago. 

Often, these workshops give council members the opportunity to give us a peek into what they really think, or fail to consider, about issues that have an effect on residents and businesses here. 

Rocker heard that a local small business owner asked the council to consider granting some Tax Incentive Funds (TIF) to assist with an EPA/DEQ mandated project. FYI: Money is collected in the form of a special sales tax by businesses within a designated TIF district. We’re told those dollars are collected by the sales tax office and placed in a TIF fund.

Those dollars can be accessed, by request, for economic develop and improvements that will lead to said development. We’re told money is collected from the business and is available to those that meet certain standards. Our council decides who qualifies.

During the work session, one counciler questioned whether this particular request met criteria for economic development, hinting that it was just a request for money that would financially benefit the owner. Yes, TIF is designed for economic improvement. But, a thinker might ask, why wouldn’t any improvement to any business be considered economically beneficial?

In this case, the above mentioned agencies have dictated that this business mitigate a huge underground storage tank, either by removal or other approved method. We understand the business owner plans to save a bundle of money by filling the tank with sand. That is, of course, unless the council pours sand over his request.

We read that Minden’s financial director explained that when EPA/DEQ issues a directive concerning hazardous situations on property, any improvements made to remedy the situations are considered economic development. That opinion, we’re told, came from the attorney who drew the local TIF districts and the rules that apply.

But in the eyes of somebody on the council, what does a lawyer know? Question was asked if this improvement would help the city or the owner. Answer could be the city would benefit more by helping this business remedy a potentially hazardous situation. Just ask those businesses located near the old Imperial Cleaners. Just ask the ordinary citizen (who also votes).

It’s only our opinion, but economic development is much more. It’s preserving and protecting those existing businesses that already pay taxes, provide payroll, make donations to local schools, charities and events. Local business and industry is an integral part of the economic growth and development of any city.

A town that doesn’t spend equally as much energy in providing assistance for its existing business and industry as it does seeking new is, in fact, stepping back. There’s a myopic attitude here that needs to be corrected. The vision of our “leaders” needs to be more broadly fine-tuned. A bigger picture can be revealed.

This TIF request is scheduled to appear on the council’s next agenda. One can only wonder if this group will consider what this decision will say to the next person or business that seeks their assistance. Remember what R. Reagan said: “We’re from the government and we’re here to help” are very scary words. Indeed. 

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