Hello and welcome to my little corner of the Webster Parish Journal.  My name is Ashley Rowton, and I love to cook (and eat!).  I share recipes daily on The Copper Whisk (www.thecopperwhisk.com).  I am delighted to share here with you as well.  Each week I will select one of my most popular recipes that is a tried and true favorite.  Last week I shared Cinnamon Roll Cake, and this week I selected Ranch Queso Enchiladas.

B-O-R-E-D with your same old taco night?  I’ve been there!  This recipe is a jackpot hit!  And there are tons of options with it.  Here I made both fajita chicken on one side and taco meat on the other side.  Feel free to choose your own preference.  I liked having the option of both, because variety is my favorite adjective when it comes to food!  Also, you can pick corn or flour tortillas.  

The sauce for this one is Oh.So.Good.  No need to use store-bought enchilada sauce when you’ve got a recipe as easy as this one.  

Ranch Queso Enchiladas

Ingredients

• Flour tortillas (or corn!)

• 1 pound ground chuck

• 1 package taco seasoning

• 1 onion

• 1 package cooked chicken fajita meat (I use Tyson)

• 1 can cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup milk

• 1 packet dry Ranch dressing mix

• 1 small can chopped green chiles

• 1 large bag Velveeta shreds

• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 9×13 pan. Cook ground beef with onion until done. Drain if needed. Add back to skillet with taco seasoning and 2/3 cup water. Mix well. 

Chop fajita chicken. 

To make the sauce heat the cream of chicken soup and milk. Once heated through add Ranch mix, green chiles, and Velveeta shreds. Mix until combined. Add more milk if mixture is too thick.

Add 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese to ground beef mixture. Assemble enchiladas by adding spoonfuls of meat to fill tortillas. Wrap into enchilada shape and place in 9×13. Fix ground beef for one half of pan and chicken on other half of pan. 

Pour sauce over top. Bake for 30 minutes.

Adapted from Michelle Sips & Savors.

Enjoy! https://thecopperwhisk.com/blogs/recipes/ranch-queso-enchilada

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

 

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The Dixie Inn Council is scheduled to meeting at 5 p.m. today (Tuesday, June 14) at Village Hall, 60 Shell Street.

On the agenda are the following:

• Accept and allow Donna Hoffoss to sign 2021-2022 audit engagement letter with Cook & Morehart;
• Adopt Minden Press-Herald as official journal for 2022;
• Adopt an ordinance for aldermen pay raises, effective July 1, 2022;
• Adopt an ordinance to make June 19 a paid legal holiday; and,
• Reports from aldermen and mayor.

The public is invited to attend.

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June 14

Online registration for current Webster Parish students entering 1st through 12th grades. Visit the school board’s website to register.

June 17

11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Sponsored by Men of Courage, Webster Parish,  a chicken plate fundraiser for burn victims Reagan Hardaway, Chancey Hawk and Daniel Payne. Tickets are $10 and must be purchased in advance. Meals include chicken, beans, potato salad and dessert. Pick up is at Mel Smith’s Marine, 1610 Shreveport Rd., Minden. For more information, including sponsorship and donation inquiries, please contact Ramanda Ketchum at ramanda_lee@yahoo.com or 318-347-2614.

3 p.m. until 7 p.m., Juneteenth Festival – Our Health Matters health fair, co-sponsored by La. Department of Health and Healing from the Heart LLC. Free event, music, food, kid friendly, door prizes.

June 18

Noon until 5 p.m. Pop-Up and Pose event kicks off the weekend at the Minden Civic Center. The event promotes unity, freedom and confidence for all. It is free to the public.

7 p.m. Minden Civic Center, following above event is a fashion show and mini hair show followed by entertainment with comedian and Minden native, Cassie J. All sponsored by Neisa Murray.

June 18; July 16

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

June 19

Noon until 5 p.m. Father’s Day at The Farm. This is a free event. There will be musical guests, spoken word and poetry readings, and an open mic segment all centered around celebrating Fathers & Juneteenth. Guests are invited to bring a picnic and enjoy it on the grounds during the festivities.

June 27 – July 1

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

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 17-20

5:45 until 7:45 p.m. Vacation Bible School, The Mighty God, at Eastside Missionary Baptist Church.

• 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 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 8

Jerestin Baugh, 20, of the 800 block of Methodist Camp Rd, Minden, was arrested by WPSO for domestic abuse battery.

Logan Wallace, 28, of Princeton, was arrested by WPSO for simple escape.

June 9

Keaira Kristine White, 27, Arlington, Texas, was arrested by WPSO for careless operation of a motor vehicle and driving under suspension.

Brian Cooper, 40, of the 400 block of Russell St., Minden, was arrested by MPD for second degree battery.

Wade P. Bryan, 36, of Ringgold, was arrested by MPD for felony theft and witness tampering.

June 10

Hallie Renee Watson, 18, of Springhill, was arrested by WPSO for domestic abuse battery, aggravated assault and contempt of court.

June 11

Cameron Parker, 23, of the 800 block of Harris St., Minden, was arrested by MPD for criminal street gangs and patterns of criminal street gangs.

Shawn David Rambin, 44, of the 300 block of N. Fairview, Minden, was arrested by MPD as a fugitive from Caddo Parish.

Shaneka Deamon, 30, of the 200 block of Washington Rd., Minden, was arrested by WPSO for speeding and no seatbelt.

June 12

Jessie Giles, 28, of Bossier City, was arrested by WPSO for driving under suspension and speeding.

Dylan Issac Thomas, 20, of the 2300 block of Franklin Rd., Heflin, was arrested by MPD for possession of methamphetamine, possession in the presence of a minor and drug paraphernalia.

Heaven L. Hunt, 19, of the 500 block of Hwy. 80, Minden, was arrested by MPD for driving with no license and no child restraint.

Lacy Percy, 42, of Iola, Texas, was arrested by MPD for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

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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Judge (Ret.) Grayson Kitchens Jr.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, 2022, First Baptist Church, Minden.

Celebration of Life: 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 15, 2022, First Baptist Church, Minden, La.

** 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

Toxins left behind by the inoperative Imperial Cleaners are a cause of concern for nearby daycare owners. Business owners and residents near the property of 211 Pennsylvania Avenue received notice from the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality on April 22 that contamination was detected in the vicinity of their businesses or homes. 

The notice included attached information regarding potential health effects that may be associated with exposure to these types of chemicals.  

These businesses include, Pink Magnolia, Wise Dancenter, Webster Parish Community Services, Minden’s Finest Storage II, Webster Parish Head Start, Minden Press-Herald, Bobbie’s Hobbies, First Baptist Church/Preschool and the Children’s Center.  

Julie Vogel is the owner of the Children’s Center located on Broadway. Vogel and her staff are responsible for several children at the facility during the week. Some of the children attend the daycare for many hours every day.  

“It is concerning to think that these chemicals have been leaking and could have or can be affecting our children and people in the area,” Vogel said.  

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends that workplace exposure to tetrachloroethylene be minimized due to concerns about its carcinogenicity.  

According to a public health statement released by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, if you are exposed to this toxin for brief time periods it may cause you to become dizzy or sleepy, develop headaches, cause incoordination, or unconsciousness if you are breathing in substantial amounts. People who are exposed to lower levels over a longer period of time may have changes in mood, memory, attention, reaction time, or vision. Those that are exposed to tetrachloroethylene for years may have a higher risk of getting cancers, such as, bladder, multiple myeloma, or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It may cause harm to the nervous system, liver, kidneys and reproductive system. 

“They will be checking the air quality to see what we are dealing with and if there are any contaminants,” said Vogel. “Hopefully, the leaking is contained, and we will not have any concerns in our building, but it is scary to have this so close to home. Right now, it is a waiting game to see what will happen and how they will protect us from any further damage.” 

Many employees and parents of the children who attend these centers in the vicinity of the contamination were not contacted regarding the situation.  

A concerned parent expressed their disgruntlement with being left in the dark. 

“I feel like I have a right to know simply because of the children right next door. Even if it were not an immediate concern, it could turn into something in the future,” she said, on the condition of anonymity. “It bothers me because my child has attended one of the daycares for four years now.” 

Her daughter suffers from constant stomach pains and bladder infections. She has recently been seen by a Gastrointestinal Specialists on two separate occasions, with no answers yet. There are numerous other reports of children and adults currently experiencing the same issues. It is not clear if these instances are in connection with the possible exposure to the contamination.  

First Baptist Church of Minden just sent home a letter Friday, June 3, to the daycare parents informing them of the contamination LDEQ detected in the vicinity of their property. 

The letter states, “The LDEQ has assured us on two occasions that they do not believe there is any danger to our daycare or our buildings. They are going to further investigate as a precaution. We have given them permission to test air samples in our building and fully support testing to ensure safety of our properties.” 

The chemicals in the groundwater near the surface have the potential to produce vapors that can enter a building through cracks in foundations, around pipes or through a drain system. When this happens, it is referred to as vapor intrusion. The LDEQ has only pulled soil and groundwater samples at this time. The next round of tests will be to check the air quality inside the buildings to see if vapor intrusion has occurred. 

“Anytime there is a potential environmental exposure it is concerning,” said Alyson Neel, Communications Director with Louisiana Department of Health. These chemicals are known carcinogens and we take this matter seriously. We will keep the public up to date on this evolving situation.” 

Once the results come back from further testing – set to take place over the next couple of weeks – the LDEQ will determine a clear plan of action to resolve the issue, if necessary.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Laura Stanley, owner of La. StateRealty LLC, has leased the Imperial Cleaners’ building at 211 Pennsylvania Ave. for many years. And for much of that time, she’s known about the contaminants in the soil and air.

“That’s why I’ve never bought the building,” Stanley said. “They (Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality) were supposed to clean all that up over the last 12 years, but they never did.”

Stanley refers to the toxin levels that are alleged to be in the soil under the building.

“All we were ever told is ‘don’t drink the ground water,’” she said. “It really makes no sense at all. Most places get better after 12 years, I don’t know if it’s gotten worse, or if the levels that were acceptable 12 years ago were less.”

Stanley said she couldn’t purchase the building until the toxins were remediated.

“The state had money 12 years ago and were supposed to clean it up,” she said. “Now they don’t have money. So every so often, they came and tested it. After this last time, they called us and told us we didn’t need to be in there … that the levels were too high.”

Stanley said she moved out in the fall of 2021, after meeting with LDEQ several times, “hoping they would get it straight, but they never did.”

Stanley said she contracts with her realty agents, therefore, she and her receptionists spent the most time in the building.

“We haven’t had any issues,” she said. “We’re fine. No one’s been sick or felt bad.”

“It makes no sense at all … why is it a big deal now, but it wasn’t 12 years ago?” she continued. “But you don’t have to tell me twice (to move out). I certainly don’t want me or my family in something that isn’t safe.” 

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Over the years, Rocker has learned that a letter from any government agency isn’t always cause for celebration. Some even fall into the category of “wish this one had remained unopened.” That could be the case of letters to Minden addresses from the state Department of Environmental Quality.

We recently read a piece about DEQ findings of contaminants in the soil around an area from Pennsylvania Avenue to Gleason Street which apparently originated from chemicals used at the now closed Imperial Cleaners. Allegedly, some of the chemicals were dumped into the sewer system while others may have leaked from underground tanks that have since been removed.

We understand soil samples taken from the area showed high levels of things a non-chemist like us can’t quite understand, like whattheheckdoesthismene and cantpronouncethisatol. We also learned that some who work in the area of concern have reported an unusual odor in their buildings. Wonder if DEQ considers that a clue also.

To get a better understanding, we contacted a scientist buddy and asked if he might verify what was mentioned in the story we read. In walking encyclopedic terms which he later condensed to third-grade language we could understand, our expert advisor said the compounds are “some scary stuff.”

A little more checking around revealed bothersome information. Seems none in city or parish government knew about, or would admit to knowing about, contents of the DEQ letter despite mention of same in a news story published months ago. Maybe that’s changed after the release of the most recent article.

Chemicals listed in a recent DEQ report (which apparently has also gone unread/unmentioned by local officials) reportedly have contaminated their way toward Head Start offices and the Webster Parish Community Services building on Gleason Street. Large concentrations were noted in the report. 

We heard from one former city official this is nothing of which we should be concerned. That would be comforting if this person has seen verifiable findings that verify this apparent lack of concern. Uninformed assurances aren’t worth a brass farthing. To date, however, no one in government at any level has publicly addressed the situation. 

We aren’t suggesting there should be a full-fledged evacuation of the area which, incidentally, is very close to facilities that house children. All we’re asking is that someone take the findings seriously enough to make a statement. And while they’re at it, maybe someone might look into reports of several individuals who worked in the area and suffered serious health conditions. 

We read twice the portion of the article that mentioned the potential for aquifer contamination. Wouldn’t that be quite the reward for misunderestimating the problem? If past experiences are a measure, if DEQ is involved and public concern increases, the EPA won’t be far behind. Those are acronyms we’d much rather see from a distance. 

We don’t want to be labeled an alarmist, but we do remember something ol’ grandpappy used to say. “If you bury your head in the sand long enough, the rest of your body soon joins it.” 

 

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Three burn victims continue to improve, although it’s been a very slow road for the men.

“Reagan is still unconscious,” said Reagan Hardaway’s father-in-law Bobby Igo Jr. “They were just able to put in a trach tube, and he can breathe on his own for short periods of time.

Igo said because of the swelling and lack of trach, Hardaway experienced infection and pneumonia.

Hardaway and two co-workers Daniel Payne and Chancey Hawk were burned in May in an explosion and fire on an Aeropres location off Old Highway 7.

Igo said a tracheotomy tube was not put in place at the scene, and by the time Hardaway was transported to Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, his throat and neck were too swollen.

“Hawke is much the same as Reagan,” Igo said. “They are keeping him under sedation, too, but they were able to put a trach in sooner than with Reagan, so he’s doing just a tiny bit better.”

Cynthia Payne said her son, Daniel, is in rehab at Encompass Health on Millicent Way in Shreveport.

“I’m very impressed with this rehab,” Cynthia said. “He has a swollen right thigh and left arm, and they don’t know why. They took him to the hospital to make sure it wasn’t from a blood clot.”

Cynthia said physical therapists at rehab are impressed with Payne’s efforts, and he’s improving a little every day.

“He tries hard for them; Daniel is tough,” she said. “He has that warrior heart. But he’s still in a lot of pain.”

All the men’s backs were badly burned, causing most of Daniel’s pain.

Bobby Igo and Cynthia Payne both said they are so grateful and impressed with the outreach of prayers and fund-raisers.

“We can feel the prayers,” Igo said.

“It’s amazing … but it’s not,” Cynthia said. “It’s God, I know it is. It’s what keeps us going.”

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A Sibley man, in trouble with the law, has changed addresses from a Bossier Parish jail to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.

Webster Parish Sheriff’s investigators arrested Damon Leon Prothro, 48, of the 200 block of NE 4th Ave., Sibley, for simple burglary.

Sheriff Jason Parker said Prothro is a suspect in at least three burglaries last year of a Webster Parish asphalt and gravel business.

“The first time, we didn’t have any idea who it was,” Parker said. “The company put out cameras and the second time he went in there, he stole the cameras.”

But the third time was the charm for WPSO.

“The third time, we relocated the cameras and were able to get a picture of him and his truck,” the sheriff said.

Prothro reportedly stole more than $216,000 in machine parts, scrap iron and tools.

“He was stealing what he thought was scrap iron,” Parker said, “But he was taking a very expensive piece of machinery or equipment that is used to crush asphalt.”

Once Prothro was identified, WPSO learned Minden Police were working a burglary of scrap iron from a bulk plant on Bayou Avenue. 

“They have him as a suspect on that,” the sheriff said. “When we were looking for him, Bossier was arresting him on drug charges. So, he’s been in Bossier Max. He just got released yesterday, so we were able to charge him here.”

Sheriff said people are desperate.

“Whatever they can get their hands on, and they know they can make a dollar off of it, they’re going to get it,” he said.

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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Two Lakeside High School standouts, Jon Jon Dick and CJ Watts, were rewarded for their outstanding performance this spring with honorable mention recognition on the Class 2A All-State Baseball Team selected by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association. 

The LSWA has been selecting All-State teams since 1958. LSWA regional representatives gather nominations from coaches’ all-district teams and gather online to select the teams in every prep sport around the calendar.

No Webster Parish softball players were selected.

LSWA CLASS 2A ALL-STATE BASEBALL, SOFTBALL CHARTS

BASEBALL

Pos Player School Cl stats

P Braden Trull Rosepine Sr. 12-0

P Landon Schmitz Kinder Jr. 8-3

P Blake Lobell Springfield Sr. 9-2

P Brady St. Pierre St. Charles So. 8-1

C Ethan Frey Rosepine Sr. .487

IF Jake Smith Rosepine Jr. .461

IF Grant Ducote Rosepine Jr. .495

IF Luke Hill Episcopal Sr. .475

IF Ian Arnett St. Charles Jr. .387

OF Griffin Cooley Kinder Jr. .422
OF Logan Calcote Rosepine Sr. .466
OF Tyler Fitch Dunham Sr. .336

UT Ethan Riche’ Bunkie Sr. .488

UT Peyton Woods Doyle Jr. 9-1

UT Will Taylor Springfield Sr. .433

UT Luke Curtis Mangham Sr. .436

UT Alex Stevens Notre Dame Sr. .433

OUTSTANDING PLAYER: ETHAN FREY, ROSEPINE

COACH OF THE YEAR: WAYNE STEIN, ST. CHARLES CATHOLIC     

Honorable mention

Cale Navarre, Welsh; Grant Daigle, Welsh; Gavin Gary, DeQuincy; Hayden Sauseda, Bunkie; Hayden Blanchard, Houma Christian; Jack Deville, Many; John Michael Eves, Bunkie; Tyler Corzine, Notre Dame; AJ Manasco, Many; Andrew Lee, Ascension Episcopal; Brooks Byerley, North Caddo; Jon Jon Dick, Lakeside; Jayvion Smart, Many; Sammy Maddox, DeQuincy; Josh Lim, Dunham; Jackson Monica, St. Charles; Tripp Mixon, Notre Dame; Barrett Hebert, Ascension Episcopal; Cole Sattler, Many; Blaise Blancher, Ascension Episcopal; Stewart Bonnecaze, Episcopal; Reese Ashworth, DeQuincy; Hayden Evans, Many; Mason Bordelon, Avoyelles Charter; CJ Watts, Lakeside; IV Guillot, Newman; Lane Almond, Many.

SOFTBALL

Pos Player School Cl stats

P Brianna Fontenot Kinder Fr. 19-2

P Tia Holmes Many Sr. 16-5

P Kamryn Cancienne St. Charles 8th 20-3

P Alyssa Cadwell Houma Christian Sr. 15-3

C Maci Bergeron Notre Dame Sr. .459

IF Abigail Savoy Notre Dame Sr. .566

IF Corine Poncho Notre Dame Sr. .480

IF Madison Hebert St. Charles Sr. .530

IF Jaydn Yesso Houma Christian So. .598

OF Camryn Ford Many Sr. .473
OF Addison Contorno Doyle So. .407
OF Sara Kate Booker Many So. .592

UT Destiny Pierce Houma Christian So. .525

UT Kay Kay Savant Doyle Sr. .492

UT Jenna Marler Rosepine Jr. .513

UT Lindsey LaPrairie Bunkie Sr. .523

UT Alyssa Davis, Port Barre Jr. .453

OUTSTANDING PLAYER: CORINE PONCHO, NOTRE DAME

COACH OF THE YEAR: JACQUES SOILEAU, PORT BARRE

Honorable mention

Cicily Hill, Kinder; Hadley Lemons, Kinder; Barbra Ann White, Rosepine; Aaliyah Marrero, Rosepine; Shelby Deason, Rosepine; Alli Manuel, Welsh; Gabby Lafferty, DeQuincy; Baileigh Kellogg, DeQuincy; Adah Doucet, DeQuincy; Hillari Shuff, Kinder; Maddie Murrell, Notre Dame; Brook Jenkins, Many; Jada Carhee, Many; Karly Sweat, Menard; Hailey Henry, Houma Christian; Rylie Kuyper, Northlake Christian; Samantha Daniels, Port Barre; Kayla Benedic, Pope John Paul II; Noelle Corley, Menard; Callie Maitre, Notre Dame; Malani Francis, Port Barre; Kylee Savant, Doyle; Destiny Davis, Red River; Asia Richard, Kinder.

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The LSU AgCenter nutrition programs are great for all adults to learn how to prevent or manage health-related illnesses. Nutrition lessons can be taught in a face-to-face format or can be presented completely online. A small cost will apply to cover supplies for face-to-face classes. Schedule your nutrition class today!

1. Dining with Diabetes – A five-part series that assist adults at risk or living with Type 2 diabetes learn how to manage their condition through meal planning, label reading and portion control.
2. Smart Portions – This 8-part lifestyle weight control program teaches healthy eating using the MyPlate food groups and proper portion sizes. Regular physical activity and focus on a healthy weight are keys to success.
3. Let’s Eat for the Health of It Adult Series – An 8-part series developed by the LSU AgCenter teaches the importance of MyPlate food groups, food safety, handwashing, physical activity, and food dollar management.
4. Small Changes, Healthy Habits – A 4-part educational series on improving your health and nutrition through small changes. This program helps adults make modest, healthy, long-term changes in both diet and physical activity.
5. Break Up with Salt – A 4-part lesson series aimed to help adults at risk for or with hypertension (high blood pressure) manage blood pressure levels through goal setting, diet, nutrition label reading, portion control, and cooking.
6. Flavors of Health – Is there a topic you and your group are interested in learning more about? There are a  variety of one session lessons available, such as

• Small kitchen appliances
• Food for brain health – Mediterranean diet 
• Meal prepping
• Grocery shopping and buying
• Beverages and hydration
• Reading nutrition fact labels
• Adult cooking classes

7. Stay Independent– Stay Independent is a 6-module  nutrition education program for older adults, developed by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The program is  currently available to AgCenter FoH nutrition agents for community implementation in Louisiana. 

For more information, please contact Shakera Williams, MPH

Assistant Extension FCS Nutrition Agent (318) 371-1371

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Submitted by Phillip Smart

These gifted and talented students from Minden High School got to pitch a business plan idea to a “shark tank” panel. The sales pitch included an overview of the idea, costs, location, mission and business statement, company goals, and a marketing plan. They did a tremendous job. I am excited for their future. I got to sit along side some great community leaders on the “shark tank” panel, Steven Lingenfelter, President, Coca-Cola Bottling Co of Minden Inc., Tracy L. Campbell, Investment Advisor Representative, Meriwether Wealth & Planning, & Alisha Meeker, Branch Executive, Citizens National Bank. Looking forward to doing it again next year!

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A local woman has been arrested for stabbing another.

Yolanda Dawson, 52, of the 200 block of Sterling St., Minden, is charged with attempted second degree murder.

Minden Police Chief Steve Cropper said his officers Logan Clingman, Sgt. Mitch Hackett and Lt. Chris Hammontree were dispatched to the Sterling Street residence Monday in reference to a medical emergency and a stabbing.

“When officers arrived, they saw the victim in a neighbor’s yard,” Cropper said. “She was shirtless with multiple stab wounds and lacerations.”

Cropper said officers located the knife on the neighbor’s porch.

“Then they made contact with Yolanda Dawson who was resting on the steps with a potential leg injury,” said the chief. “While questioning her, she admitted to stabbing the victim multiple times because she was ‘tired and did not want her walking over her any longer.’”

Dawson reportedly admitted to officers that she left work to confront the victim who was packing her things in their home.

Cropper said Dawson was treated for a knee injury and released from Minden Medical Center. She was transported to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. There was no report on the victim’s condition.

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 Bonnie Culverhouse

A south Webster Parish man is behind bars on multiple charges.

Roy E. Jackson Jr., 39, of the 100 block of Melvin Thomas Rd., Doyline, was arrested by Minden Police for felony theft; possession of marijuana, ecstasy, 2 counts of clonazepam, hydrocodone and drug paraphernalia; and obstruction of justice.

Police Chief Steve Cropper said Off. Jared McIver was dispatched to a hardware store on Homer Road just after noon Monday in reference to a theft.

“The officer made contact with the store owner who advised that a suspect stole a set of keys and was currently inside the store,” Cropper said. “The same subject had returned to the store multiple times over the past few days, using the keys to steal items from the store.”

Cropper said the stolen items had already been reported to Minden Police.

“When the officer entered the store, the owner pointed out the suspect who was later identified as Jackson,” said the chief. “The officer placed him under arrest. He voluntarily handed McIver the keys to the store. A search of Jackson’s person produced a stolen lithium battery and assorted pills. While searching Jackson’s belongings, the suspect obtained the pills where they had been placed on a shelf and tried to destroy them.”

McIver reportedly recovered the pills.

The chief said Jackson’s vehicle was in the parking lot. A search reportedly showed a suspected marijuana cigarette lying on the dash.

“Several items were reported stolen from the hardware store,” Cropper said. “Camera footage showed each incident.”

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 Bonnie Culverhouse

An alleged domestic dispute at a local motel has led to the arrest of a Minden man.

Wiley Powell III, 36, of the 1100 block of Shreveport Road, was arrested Sunday by Minden Police and charged with domestic abuse battery, battery of a police officer, resisting by force or violence and fugitive from an outside agency.

Chief Steve Cropper said Ofc. Chris Cayer was dispatched to a specific room at the motel around mid-afternoon in reference to a domestic incident in progress.

“Dispatch advised that the caller said a male and female could be heard actively fighting in their room,” Cropper said. “When the officer arrived, he approached the room with two Webster Parish deputies as back-up.”

Cropper said the officer could hear the disturbance and sounds that made him believe someone or some things were being thrown across a room.

“There was a lot of screaming and banging as impacts on the walls could be heard,” said the chief. “The officer knocked loudly and announced himself. The male opened the door, and the officer and deputies called him out at gun point.”

Once the male, identified as Powell, was secured, Ofc. Cayer reportedly entered the room.

“It (the room) was totally destroyed,” Cropper said. “The female was sitting on the bed, and the officer could see visible marks all over her face, arms, legs, back and her hair had been pulled out. The officer said there was hair all over the room.”

The victim reportedly denied medical help and said she did not wish to pursue charges.

“Ofc. Cayer stepped out of the room when he heard Powell arguing loudly with the deputies,” Cropper continued. “He became irate when the officer informed him that he was under arrest for domestic abuse battery.”

Due to active resistance, deputies and the officer reportedly were forced to drag the suspect to the city patrol unit.

“Powell somehow used a tire to try and break free from the officers’ grip on him,” Cropper said. “He continued several times until the officer was forced to use a closed fist to his face in an attempt to get pain compliance.”

Once Powell was in the back of the patrol unit, the chief said he kicked the officer and twice struck Cayer in the face with his feet.

“It took the officer and both deputies to get him under control and in the unit,” said the chief.

Powell was taken to the Minden Police Department for booking and transported to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.

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 Bonnie Culverhouse

Shreveport Road was the scene of a two-vehicle accident that ended in the arrest of a Lincoln Parish man.

Kenneth Dewayne Freeman, 35, of the 100 block of Barker Dr., Ruston, was arrested by Minden Police for possession of schedule II drugs, possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

“Officers Logan Clingan and Jared McIver were dispatched to the accident around mid-afternoon June 1,” said Minden Police Chief Steve Cropper. “Off. Clingan obtained information from both drivers and ran their information for warrants.”

During a vehicle search of Freeman’s 2014 Chevrolet, officers found schedule II drugs in the center console, a Sig Sauer model X-P365 firearm under the driver’s seat and box containing five magazines under the passenger seat floorboard.

Freeman was transported to the Minden Police Department for booking.

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 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 2

David Ragon, 28, of Springhill, was arrested by Probation & Parole on a parole violation.

Robert Allen Molnar, 50, of Dixie Inn, was arrested by WPSO for possession of a firearm with a controlled dangerous substance and as a felon in the presence of a firearm.

June 4

Michael Luis Hernandez, 28, of Doyline, was arrested by WPSO for domestic abuse with strangulation.

Jameson Green, 33, of the 600 block of Rebecca St., Minden, was arrested by WPSO for criminal neglect of family.

Earl Lewis IV, 52, of Cotton Valley, was arrested by LSP on an active arrest warrant from Bienville Sheriff’s Office for attempted second degree murder.

Lanita N. Distill, 25, of Sarepta, was arrested by Springhill Police for possession of Ecstasy.

June 7

Michael E. McEachern, 47, of the 1600 block of Dorcheat Rd., Minden, was arrested by WPSO for contempt of court.

Penny Michelle Dooly, 41, of the 1600 block of Dorcheat Rd., Minden, was arrested by WPSO for accessories after the fact.

Antonia Lavelle Germany, 29, of the 100 block of 6th St. SW, Springhill, was arrested by Cullen Police for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.

Zane Ethan Miller, 41, of the 1200 block of Dorcheat Rd., Minden, was arrested by WPSO on three counts of contempt of court.

Cameron Thomas, 31, of Shreveport, was arrested by WPSO no helmet, aggravated flight from an officer, failure to register vehicle, no insurance, and warrants for simple burglary and simple theft.

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 the week of June 1:

June 1

Midfirst Bank vs. Lance Lamar Farrington and Natalie Ann Blake Farrington, executory process.

Jeanne D. Wiggins vs. Anthony Ovitt, protective order.

U.S. Bank National Association vs. Lorenz George Thomas, executory process.

Gregory Schildroth vs. State Farm Fire and Casualty Co., damages.

June 2

Joe Boyd Williams III vs. Glenda Eileen Williams, divorce.

State of La. Dept. of Transportation and Development vs. Root Insurance Co., damages.

Margaret Gladney vs. Richard Woodle/AJ Shree LLC/Government Employees Insurance Co., personal injury.

Delitha K. Gunderson, Gene A. Gunderson vs. Marlon Xavier McDonald, damages.

June 6

Republic Finance LLC vs. Leroy E. Hill, judgment executory & garnishment.

Savannah Hoeben vs. Kristopher Martin, protective order.

Travis James Inman vs. Mary Ann Inman, divorce.

Aspen Lilley vs. Michael Hernandez, protective order.

June 7

City of Minden vs. Serrett’s Trucks Inc. / Prime Property and Casualty Insurance Inc., damages.

Jennifer Cooper vs. John Cooper, divorce.

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Gloria D. Chatman

Feb. 22, 1937 – May 30, 2022

Visitation: Noon until 6 p.m. Friday, June 10 at Doyle Funeral Home Chapel

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Saturday, June 11, 2022 at Mt. Zion CME Church.

 

Mary Catherine Gray Ware

May 11, 1932 – June 6, 2022

Visitation: 9 until 10 a.m. Saturday, June 11, 2022 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Homer, La.

Funeral service: 10 a.m. Saturday, June 11, 2022 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Homer, La.

Burial: Wares Chapel Cemetery near Haynesville, La.

 

Jerry Clifton ‘Poncho’ Bailey Sr.

May 22, 1945 – May 16, 2022

Visitation: 1 until 3 p.m., Saturday, June 11, 2022 at First Baptist Church, Haynesville, La.

Memorial service: 3:30 p.m. Saturday, June 11, 2022 at First Baptist Church, Haynesville, La.

Inurnment: Gordon Cemetery near Haynesville.

 

** 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

The Webster Parish Police Jury temporarily cut off funding for the Webster Humane Association last month, due to the non-profit organization not depositing checks or providing the jury with monthly reports for their spay/neuter program.  

Two representatives from WHA, Patricia Powell and Jennifer Walker, were present at the WPPJ meeting this month to present a backlog of several months’ worth of reports. After review, the jury decided to resume sending checks to support this organization.  

“I know everybody is busy, but it would be good if we got these reports monthly,” said Webster Parish Police Jury President, Jim Bonsall. “When we didn’t hear from you for a long time, people go to thinking bad things and that’s not what we want. It’s been a good relationship for a long time and it’s good for the parish, too.” 

“We appreciate you,” said Powell. 

This relationship dates to 2006, and the jury is happy to continue supporting this organization. They are a great asset to the parish and help tremendously in providing spays and neuters to pet owners all over the parish.  

You may pick up an application at Burke’s outlet in Minden, download it from the WHA Facebook page, or reach out to the hotline at 318-377-7433.  

“The instructions are on there. You have to provide proof of income and proof of residency because we keep it within the parish,” said Powell. “We try to keep the low income factored in, based on people who actually need it.”

 

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Schools throughout Webster Parish will be in for major upgrades in the Wi-Fi network after school board members voted Monday to advertise Request for Proposals to provide products and services in the district.

A major portion of the money to fund the project, perhaps up to 85 percent for qualifying schools, will come from E-Rate Category 2, a federal program designed to help eligible schools and libraries obtain affordable broadband.

E-Rate programs are administered by the Universal Service Fund and provide discounts for telecommunications, Internet access and internal connections. Webster Parish has budgeted $500,000 for the upgrades.

Also at Monday’s meeting, board members approved a number of local district expenditures including a pair intended to improve sports facilities. Board members said yes to advertising for bids on a new softball complex for Minden High School. Site of the proposed facility would be at the former Webster Parish Alternative School (old Lowe Middle) property.

And, a change order totaling $45,641 was approved for a synthetic turf football field project at Lakeside Jr/Sr High School to replace unstable soil conditions at the field.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Minden Police and Minden Fire departments have new hires following a special session of the city council Thursday morning.

Heather Feeback and Justin Richardson were approved unanimously, with only District D Councilman Michael Roy absent.

“Heather approached me a while back and said she wanted to be a Minden Police Officer,” Chief Steve Cropper said. “She is not P.O.S.T. certified, but she has a lot of first-responder experience because she volunteers as a fireman.”

Feeback told the chief she had wanted to be a police officer since she was a child.

“She currently carries a Civil Service test score of 96 percent,” he added. “I believe she would make an excellent addition to the police department.”

On behalf of Fire Chief Kip Mourad, Assistant Fire Chief Ronnie Chreene recommended hiring Richardson, who has been in the department one year as a volunteer.

“He has passed all the Civil Service exams and all the physical ability challenges,” Chreene said.

District A Councilman Wayne Edwards said he knows Richardson.

“I think he will do you one outstanding job,” Edwards said.

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