AS A QUALITY ENGINEER, YOU WILL:

• Investigate quality defects and perform RCA
• Lead and/or contribute to structured problem-solving for corrective and preventive actions
• Analyze no-conformance trends and evaluate the effectiveness of CAPA
• Identify improvement opportunities and drive actions for improvement by analyzing manufacturing processes and conducting process capability analysis
• Lead initiatives to improve non-conformance PPM and cost of quality
• Perform new product and process qualifications
• Direct quality support team members engaged in measuring and testing products and tabulating data concerning product or process quality

REQUIRED EDUCTION, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS:

• BS degree in engineering or engineering technology with exposure to quality and lean manufacturing, plus two years of related experience
• Strong interpersonal skills with hourly, engineering and management
• Strong computer skills required
If qualified and interested, please apply online at http://www.emerson.com

BENEFITS:

We offer medical insurance plans, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), tuition reimbursement and more. We also provide you flexible time-off plans, including parental leave, vacation, and holiday leave.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Emerson is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.

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Lakeside wants to welcome Turner Madden to the family. Turner is from Castor. He earned his B.S. in Kinesiology at Louisiana Tech University in August of 2017. He has been a teacher and coach for the past 5 years.

Turner currently resides in Castor with his wife Mallory and their dog, Hallie. Turner enjoys the outdoors and spending time with his family and friends. 

“I believe in hard work and playing at the highest level possible.” Turner said. Turner will coach the Lakeside boys basketball team.

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Emily Henderson has announced her resignation as head coach for the Lady Apache softball and cross-country programs. 

“Although Glenbrook was a short timeline in my career, I feel that my time there was well-spent, and these athletes know the next steps in competing for a State Title in LHSAA,”  Henderson said.

Henderson has accepted a paid internship position through a university in Minnesota. 

The Lady Apaches finished the 2022 season with an 8 and 12 record in Henderson’s first season.  “Coach Henderson did a tremendous job with our softball program,” said Athletic Director James Thurman. “She worked extremely hard, and I believe that our next coach will greatly benefit from the foundation that she is leaving behind.” said Athletic Director James Thurman. 

The search for replacement is already underway, and anyone interested should contact Coach Thurman at jthurman@glenbrookschool.com . 

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Phillip Michael Smart has announced his candidacy for the W.P.S.B. District 8.

Smart advocates for education, equality, health and economics. He is a father of three children (two attend Webster Parish Schools) and a husband. Smart has a devotion to education and helping others.

“We are in a challenging and unique time in the world,” Smart said. “Now education is more important than ever as our world is becoming more advanced. I firmly believe that supporting and empowering teachers and parents will benefit the entire community, and this is my top priority.”

Smart sees the challenges and instead of pointing out the problems he wants to point out the solutions.

 “I will be a strong voice for teachers, staff, parents and children in Webster Parish,” he said.

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United Christian Assistance Program needs the following items:

Food: Ramen noodles, powdered milk, cereal, crackers

Clothing: men’s medium and large short sleeve shirts, men’s shoes sizes 10-13

Household Goods: sheets, towels, assorted cookware

Funds: for Utility Assistance:

Thank you for supporting UCAP! We appreciate any help you can provide!

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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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.

July 14

Jayden R. Mills, 19, of the 300 block of Hickory St., Springhill, was arrested by WPSO as principle to illegal use of a firearm.

Devan Kyle Adams, 28, of the 600 block of Horseshoe Bend, Doyline, was arrested by WPSO for simple battery.

July 15

Melissa Anderson, 37, of the 100 block of Burns Rd., Springhill, was arrested by Springhill PD for aggravated flight from an officer.

July 16

Lucas Allen Stricken, Old Arcadia Rd., Minden, was arrested by WPSO for domestic abuse battery (strangulation).

Dillon James Lee Roton, 23, of the 600 block of Doc Steed Rd., Minden, was arrested by MPD on warrants for theft, unauthorized entry of a place of business, theft of a motor vehicle and simple criminal damage to property.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named 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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July 20

10 a.m. Steve’s Snaketuary at Minden Branch of Webster Parish Library. Registration required.

2 p.m. Steve’s Snaketuary at Springhill Branch of Webster Parish Library. Registration required.

3:30 p.m. Ocean in a Bottle, Heflin branch of the Webster Parish Library.

4 p.m. Scary Shark Art for kids, Cotton Valley branch of the Webster Parish Library.

July 21

9 a.m. Minden City Council Workshop on City Employee Manual. Pelican Conference Room, Minden City Hall. The Public is invited to attend.

1 p.m. Genealogy Workshop at Minden Main Branch of Webster Parish Library.

July 23

6:30 p.m. Lama Animal Rescue Annual Bingo Fundraiser. 101 Machen Dr., Springhill

July 25

Noon until 2 p.m. Yoga Workshop for teens and adults with Javelin Hardy. Minden library. No experience required. Please bring a yoga mat and towel. Contact Aubrie at 318-371-3080 ext. 135.

July 26

4 until 8 p.m. Pack the Bus school supplies, Walmart parking lot, Minden.

July 27

8 a.m. until noon Pack the Bus school supplies, Walmart parking lot, Minden.

3:30 p.m. Steve’s Snaketuary at Cotton Valley Branch of Webster Parish Library. Registration required.

3:30 p.m. CD & Button Turtle Craft, Heflin branch of the Webster Parish Library.

4 p.m. Special Performer: Steve’s Snaketuary, Cotton Valley branch of the Webster Parish Library.

July 29

3:30 p.m. Steve’s Snaketuary at Heflin Branch of Webster Parish Library. Registration required.

July 30

4 until 7 p.m. Pack the Bus, parking lot of Walmart, Springhill, La.

4 until 7 p.m. Pack the Bus, parking lot of Walmart, Minden, La.

July 31

8 until 11 a.m. Pack the Bus, parking lot of Walmart, Springhill, La.

8 until 11 a.m. p.m. Pack the Bus, parking lot of Walmart, Minden, La.

2 until 5 p.m. Webster Parish School Board’s Drive-Thru Back-to-School-Bash. Harper Pathway to Excellence, 618 Germantown Rd., Minden. Grades PK-12 will be provided a portion of their school supply list.

August 1

Noon until 2 p.m. Yoga Workshop for teens and adults with Javelin Hardy. Minden library. No experience required. Please bring a yoga mat and towel. Contact Aubrie at 318-371-3080 ext. 135.

6 p.m. Glenbrook Elementary Football Practice. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday until school starts. Grades 3-6. Contact coaches if a second grader is interested. Shorts and T-shirt fine for first couple of practices.

August 4

Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK and Kindergarten Registration Day.

August 5

Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK teachers will contact families to share Orientation Day/Parent Meeting Information.

August 5 and 6

8 a.m. each day. Minden Evening Lions will hold a rummage sale. To donate, call Sherrie McMurray at 318-294-6346.

8 p.m. nightly. Pete Colvin Memorial Rodeo presented by Car-Giant of Minden. Jack Batton Arena, Minden, La.

August 5-10

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Parish Schools Kindergarten Orientation Days. Parents must transport students to school.

August 8

Noon until 2 p.m. Yoga Workshop for teens and adults with Javelin Hardy. Minden library. No experience required. Please bring a yoga mat and towel. Contact Aubrie at 318-371-3080 ext. 135.

5 until 7 p.m. Chicken Spaghetti fundraiser benefitting Kristen & Bubba Fish and baby Bryer. $10 includes green beans, roll and dessert. Pickup only. Sarepta Community Building. Sponsored by Women Helping Others of North Webster. Tickets must be purchased in advance from any W.H.O. member.

August 8-11

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK Orientation Days. Parents must transport students to school.

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.

August 11

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Parish Schools’ Boys’ Day. Parents must transport students to school. Parent meeting at 1:30 p.m.

August 12

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Boys’ Day Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK program.

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Parish Schools’ Girls’ Day. Parents must transport students to school. Parent meeting at 1:30 p.m.

August 15

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Girls’Day Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK program.

First full day for all Kindergarten students in Webster Parish Schools.

August 15-17

3-4:30 p.m. Mini cheer camp sponsored by Glenbrook Booster Fan Club. Registration form must be returned by August 12. Performance will be August 18 during Back to School Night.

August 16

First full day for all Preschool/PreK students in Webster Parish Schools’ program.

August 18

10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Children’s Book Club for ages 4-7. Springhill Branch of Webster Parish Libraries.

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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Rita Warren Hapgood Giddens

Dec. 7, 1929 – June 27, 2022

Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, July 23, 2022, Rose-Neath Chapel, Minden, La.

Memorial service: 11 a.m. Saturday, July 23, 2022, Rose-Neath Chapel, Minden, La.

Inurnment: Springhill Cemetery, Ringgold, La.

 Webster Parish Journal publishes 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

The deadline is fast approaching for members of the Minden City Council to address the issue of an interim mayor to finish the term of the late Terry Gardner.

City attorney Jimbo Yocom said Gov. John Bel Edwards won’t step in to make an appointment until after Monday July 18, giving the council the full 20 days to handle the issue.

“The council has until July 18,” Yocom said. “If nothing has been resolved by the 19th, it becomes the governor’s issue.”

However, Yocom said the governor does not have to appoint someone specifically on that date.

“If they had not appointed a mayor pro tem, I would’ve appealed to (the governor) to have mercy powers to do it,” he said. “Since they (council) appointed Mr. (Wayne) Edwards, to resolve the matter, the city can move forward.”

With only District B Councilwoman Terika Williams-Walker absent, council members voted unanimously to appoint Edwards as mayor pro tem July 5. The District A councilman can still vote on issues, whereas Minden’s mayor – interim or permanent – cannot cast a ballot on city issues unless there is a tie vote by the council.

Edwards has not made a decision about whether to call a special council meeting to appoint an interim mayor.

“Right now, I’m more concerned about the city budget,” Edwards said. “We’re 1.5 million over on expenses, and we are working trying to get that number down. That’s my major interest right now.

“If we get that taken care of, we will give the other part some consideration,” he continued. “But my focus right now is just on that budget.”

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Fall elections are closer than you think and campaigning for office could begin as soon as next week.

Qualifying for the November 8 election takes place Wednesday, July 20 through Friday, July 22 in the Webster Parish Courthouse in Minden.

Clerk of Court Holli Vining said those qualifying for office should come to the clerk’s office on the second floor of the courthouse between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. those days.

“They will need to bring a completed notice of candidacy with them,” Vining said. “That notice is available on the Secretary of State’s website, or we will have a stack of them here to fill out.”

Vining said a new law is in effect that requires candidates provide an email address.

“I anticipate some won’t have one, but they can easily set up a free email address,” she said. “Something people may not realize is that we only accept their form and put it in the state system. We don’t verify any of their information, but they are signing a sworn affidavit saying that everything they put on their form is true.”

Qualifying fees vary according to party affiliation, she added.

“We accept cash, check or credit card,” she said. “They can call our office, before they come and we will give them that information. It also differs per party, per office. It can get complicated.”

If a candidate would like to change parties, they can do so before qualifying. However, Vining said it’s too late once they’ve filed paperwork.

To change parties, the qualifying candidate would visit the Webster Parish Registrar of Voters office.

Questions about precincts, district boundaries or to acquire a list of registered voters, the candidate can go to the Secretary of State’s website or the Registrar of Voters.

Webster Parish voters will cast ballots November 8 for U.S. representative 4th Congressional District, all Webster Parish School Board members, Justice of the Peace for District 3 (Doyline) and mayors for Minden, Springhill, Dixie Inn, Doyline and Heflin.

Also, they will vote for police chiefs in Minden, Springhill, Cotton Valley, Doyline and Heflin.

All Springhill alderman seats are up for election. One alderman seat is up in Dixie Inn, 3 in Doyline and 3 in Heflin.

All Minden City Council seats are also up for election.

• Deadline to register to vote in person, by mail or at the OMV Office is Oct. 11.    
• Deadline to register to vote through the GeauxVote Online Registration System is Oct. 18.
• Early voting is Oct. 25 through Nov. 1 (excluding Sunday, Oct. 30) from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
• The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Nov. 4 by 4:30 p.m (other than military and overseas voters). You can request an absentee ballot online through our Voter Portal or in writing through your Registrar of Voters Office.
• The deadline for a registrar of voters to receive a voted absentee ballot is Nov. 7 by 4:30 p.m. (other than military and overseas voters).
• On election day, the polls are open from 6 a.m.-8 p.m.

For more information, call the clerk’s office at 318-371-0366 or the registrar’s office at 318-377-9272.

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By Tina Montgomery

The aldermen for the Village of Dixie Inn met July 12 and provided some clarification about an ordinance that was passed to provide some protection from water/sewerage bills defaulted by renters who move away without resolving their delinquencies.

Ordinance 38D raised the security deposit for water/sewerage to $300 from $150. Andy Nelson, who owns Southfield Trailer Park, was concerned whether the responsibility of paying such delinquencies fell onto landlords. Buddy Caskey who owns Heart of Dixie mobile home park was expected to address the council on this matter. Nelson asked if the council could address the issue without Mr. Caskey’s presence. 

Mayor Donna Hoffoss explained, “We adopted this, Ordinance 38D, because we had so many delinquent water bills and sewer bills, and so we have to spend a lot of money when we do repairs on all of our stuff, so we had to try to recoup some of our money.” 

Incoming tenants now pay a security deposit of  $300; an amount that is expected to cover any delinquencies when a tenant moves and does not pay monies owed on water/sewerage bills. 

Mr. Nelson asked if the landlord was responsible for anything owed after the $300 deposit was applied to the outstanding bill. Mayor Hoffoss affirmed the remaining tenant delinquency was the responsibility of the landlord. 

“Well, we’ve never come across that, as far as the 20 years I’ve been in the business,” Nelson said.  

Alderman Lance Milligan said the increase in the deposit was to mitigate any circumstances in which a tenant suddenly and unexpectedly leaves the property without paying for a water bill that is owed. Alderwoman Judy McKenzie said in that way the Village and the landlord are protected because the security deposit would be expected to take care of that type of situation.

In other new business, Water System Operator Mike Chreene reported he had received a quote of $2,250 to place cameras in the front of the water yard. Chreene said the quote was a bit high and the expense for the cameras wasn’t necessary right now. The Board decided to table the camera installation to a later time.

Included in department reports, Chreene said emergency water repairs were made at the police station. He also presented quotes to repair the hydrant at R & S Supply. The Board unanimously approved the quote of $4286.50 to repair the hydrant.

Police Chief James Edwards said the issue of animal control would need to be addressed in the near future due to the overpopulation and presence of stray animals at various businesses in the Village. Edwards also expressed the need to re-establish the reserve program saying the officers were a valuable asset to Dixie Inn. He presented statistics to the Board to show police activity in the parish and the need for the reserve officers.

Mayor Hoffoss reported they had received FEMA money from the 2016 flood. The equalization grant that was expected in July was now to be given on September 2nd. The Mayor asked the Alderman to think about what could be done to promote the bayou area and bring in more visitors. Alderman Milligan said there is discussion in the Webster Parish Police Jury about funding to place a handicap accessible kayak area at the boat launch. The handicap accessible kayak area would be unique to this area and is expected to draw visitors from East Texas to Monroe.

The Dixie Inn Board of Aldermen meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m. at Village Hall located at 60 Shell Street, Dixie Inn. The meetings are open to the public.

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Betting windows are open for business now that the qualifying for election windows are close to opening for hopefuls seeking to occupy vacant city of Minden seats and, perhaps, some others that are not so vacant.

Rocker has been doing a lot of listening for the past few weeks and you know, there’s a lot to be heard if one keeps his/her ear to the wind. And the talk-it-up crowd has been giving the oddsmakers and speculators more than a little to consider.

Without a doubt, most eyes are on the mayor’s race in our fair city. Terry Gardner’s passing has left a big void to fill in city government and the list of those who may want to sit in that seat could grow beyond what was once a two-person race.

Current Police Jury member Nick Cox announced his intention to run against the sitting mayor months ago. He has been highly visible around town and, sources tell us, has drummed up some pretty impressive support. It will be interesting to see which other name(s) may be listed after July 25.  

Right now, odds are 5-2 that at least one other person will cast a chapeau into the ring for the mayor’s race and bettors may lay a coin or two on who that other might be. We’ve heard this other person just could come from within the council, but that’s a decision someone outside the council will ponder.

What will be the look of Minden’s city council after the Fall elections? We already know there will be at least one new face behind the power desk and oddsmakers are saying there’s a strong possibility other newbies will be oathed into office.

District E’s Ms. Bloxom will see her nameplate retired, and this one’s by choice. She announced her intentions to unrun some time ago and there are at least two who have expressed a desire to take on the job. Those are well-known around town, so we’ll wait until the end of qualifying for verification. Also, a third name was whispered, but we’re told that was speculation only.

In District A, Incumbent Edwards, who was just named Mayor Pro Tem, will reportedly face a challenger who (sources say) is very well connected to some pretty stout string pullers. Odds (6-1) are that race will be a two-person affair. We’re waiting for the pew report to confirm.

Another incumbent, Mr. Bradford, might be in big trouble to remain a repeat offender. We hear through a grapevine that’s quite active in town, multiple individuals are expressing a desire to occupy the District C chair. We’ll know more in a couple of days, but for now suffice it to say there could be a long line at the C window. 

So far, we’ve heard very little about opposition in either District B (Terika Walker-Williams) or District D (Michael Roy). A friend told us last week that no challenger appeared to be lurking in the shadows in either district, but there could B an interesting turn of events.

That same friend, and a couple of other sources, predicted odds just might be better than 50-50 that one of these aforementioned seats could potentially be open under the right circumstances. What those circumstances could be, we’re told, hinges on how eager some “leaders” in town may be to see if their muscle has enough flex to cover a pair of zip codes. 

Minden has always been good for rousing political theater. Wethinks this year’s production will be a dandy, and the script will be presented before the month is over. Odds are you want to play in this game. 

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By Paige Nash

My husband got home from work the other night and he was laying on the couch curled up with my daughter, Ashton. He was kind of in her face, talking to her and kissing her, telling her how much he missed her all day. After a little while he told her he needed to get up and go take a shower before he fell asleep. 

Her response was, “Your mouth needs a shower.” 

I completely lost it.  

Apparently, he needed to brush his teeth on his way to the shower.  

It’s obvious that children up to a certain age do not have a filter. They say exactly what is on their minds and they do not care (or even know to care,) if they are going to hurt someone’s feelings when they say it.  

As we get older, we become more aware of this. We learn that sometimes it may not be appropriate to say exactly what we are thinking at a certain time or to particular people. Then there are a rare few who keep it real no matter what. They are usually referred to as the “blunt” friend.  

Sometimes they are underappreciated. You can’t rely on every friend to tell you if you have food in your teeth, if you have toilet paper stuck to your shoe, or if you are possibly about to make a bad decision.  

A friend who keeps things up front and honest, will tell you all those things, plus a lot more, some things that you may not even like to know. They tell it like it is. To certain people they can come across as rude or cruel, but in most cases, they are just showing a little tough love.  

Some people have a hard time telling their friends and family what they need to hear, out of fear of embarrassing them or upsetting them. They don’t want to risk hurting someone else’s feelings. 

A blunt friend does not care. They are going to tell you exactly how it is. They push you to be better and they are someone you can count on to always give their honest opinion, whether it be anything from choosing an outfit to a very important life decision, (or telling you that you need to brush your teeth.) 

If you are not lucky enough to already have a friend like this in your corner, just have a few kids. Problem solved!

(Paige Nash is a wife, mom and journalist for The Webster Parish Journal.)

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Around mid-afternoon Saturday, Minden Police officers were dispatched to a local dollar store on Homer Road where a possible theft was in progress.

Delandry Eugene Frazier, 64, was arrested for theft (shoplifting), possession of crack cocaine, resisting by force or violence and resisting by false information.

Chief Steve Cropper said Off. Kayla Little arrived on the scene first and saw a male wearing jeans and striped shirt leaving the store.

“The store manager came out and talked with Off. Little and identified the male as the shoplifter,” Cropper said. “She told the officer the man removed items from his pants, then left the store, setting off the alarms.”

Frazier reportedly gave the officer the name Rickey Johnson at first.

“Off. Little attempted to search Frazier to verify he didn’t have any additional items in his pockets or pants,” said the chief. “Frazier became nervous and refused to empty his right pocket. The officer ordered him against the brick wall, and he attempted to throw something he had retrieved from his pocket.”

Frazier reportedly pulled away from the officer and attempted to flee on his bicycle.

“Off. Little tried to grab the back of his pants to stop him, while he was trying to pick up a pill bottle that he threw,” Cropper continued. “He continued resisting by jerking away and grabbing the officer several times.”

Off. Little secured Frazier as Sgt. Mitch Hackett arrived at the scene to assist. Hackett reportedly placed Frazier in Little’s patrol unit and mirandized him.

“Officers located the pill bottle he threw. It had no label and 0.5 grams of a white substance in it the later was identified as crack cocaine,” Cropper said. “A crack pipe was recovered, along with a razor blade inside an empty cigarette pack. It also had white residue on it.”

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named 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

Minden Police have arrested a local man for possession of a stolen firearm.

Philip Edwards, 28, of the 1200 block of Shiloh Rd., Minden, was arrested around 9 p.m. Sunday, when Lt. Chris Hammontree clocked the vehicle in which he was riding traveling 52 miles per hour in a 35-mph zone on Fincher Road.

Minden Police Chief Steve Cropper said there were four persons in the vehicle.

“Three of the four were TTS gang members from the 28 original ones we had warrants for,” Cropper said. “They all bonded out. Edwards was the only one that wasn’t with TTS.”

Cropper said the occupants seemed nervous when they were stopped.

“An open alcoholic beverage was observed in plain view,” Cropper said. “K9 Tigo alerted on the vehicle, so it was searched.”

The stolen gun was located under a seat.

“Edwards admitted to possession of the gun,” said the chief. “The driver was cited and released. Edwards was arrested and booked.”

(Editor’s note: In this case, TTS stands for “Trained to Step.”)

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named 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 routine traffic stop led to the arrest of a Springhill man on drug and weapons charges.

Semja J. Prather, 24, of the 400 block of 7th St., S.E., was arrested Monday by Springhill Police. He is charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, methamphetamine with intent, marijuana, a dangerous weapon in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance and resisting by flight.

Police Chief Will Lynd said officers conducted a traffic stop for a moving violation Monday around 9:40 p.m.

“When the vehicle came to a stop, the front right passenger door opened,” Lynd said. “Prather fled the vehicle with a small black bag. The officer pursued on foot toward 3rd St. SE while giving loud verbal commands to stop multiple times.”

Prather reportedly tripped into a ditch and the officer was able to safely make the arrest.

“Once he was handcuffed, Prather began reaching for the small black bag, though he was already handcuffed,” said the chief. “While walking back to the patrol unit, the suspect kept saying he had drugs and asked if the officer could let him go.”

A search of Prather’s pockets reportedly revealed 2 medium sized plastic bags filled with a white powdery substance suspected to be cocaine. Total weight was 7.1 grams. Reports also claimed there were 2 medium sized plastic bags filled with multicolored pills suspected to be ecstasy – a total of 4.0 grams.

“The black bag contained 2 medium sized bags filled with a green leafy substance suspected to be marijuana with a total weight of 7.2 grams,” Lynd said. “There was a black Glock 9mm pistol with a round loaded in the chamber.”

Prather was booked into the Springhill City Jail and later transported to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named 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

Two local men are in jail on multiple drug, alcohol and firearms charges, following early morning arrests Sunday.

Kentrevion Dontrevez Rogers, 22, of the 500 block of Verdis, Minden, was arrested for failure to signal turn, driving under suspension, open container and as a felon in possession of a firearm.

Joseph Danielle Fullwood, 41 of the 700 block of Yale St., Minden, was arrested for possession of marijuana, crack cocaine, drug paraphernalia, having a firearm with controlled dangerous substances, 2 counts of resisting an officer and criminal damage to property.

Minden Police Chief Steve Cropper said the men were in a 2006 Jeep that was illegally parked on Jackson Street.

“Lt. Chris Hammontree said the vehicle pulled off and failed to signal a right turn onto Pershing Street. Then the driver turned left onto Cherry Street where the officer initiated a traffic stop,” Cropper said. “The driver, identified as Rogers, told the officer his driver’s license was suspended. There was an open bottle of beer in the cup holder.”

Rogers reportedly handed officers the beer and took responsibility for it.

Cropper said Fullwood was a passenger in the vehicle and told the officer his last name was Tank. At that time, Ofc. Jason Lee, Sgt. Jason Smith and Lt. Chris McClaran arrived at the scene.

“Fullwood exited the vehicle with a backpack and fled on foot,” said the chief. “Officers chased him as he dropped items out of backpack, including 2.09 grams of crack cocaine, 17.56 grams of natural marijuana and a digital scale.”

During pursuit, Fullwood allegedly broke a fence, and the property owner is pursuing charges.

“K9 officer Tigo performed an open air sniff of the vehicle and showed odor response for the presence of narcotics,” Cropper said. “During a search of the vehicle, officers located an open container in the backseat where a female passenger sat. She seemed highly intoxicated.

“In the roof support, located in the center of the vehicle, officers located a loaded 9mm handgun,” the chief continued. “None of the occupants knew who the firearm belonged to.”

Rogers is reportedly a multi-time convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named 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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Why is it important to stay hydrated?

What most people do not realize is that your body depends on water to survive. Your body uses water to maintain its temperature, remove waste, and helps to keep your joints working.

How much water/fluid should you drink daily?

It is recommended that the average person consume 6-8, ounce cups of fluid daily. However, if you are doing rigorous physical activity or working outdoors in the heat, you may require more fluids. On the other hand, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Water intake must be individualized, and you should check with your doctor if you are not sure about the right amount for you. In addition to water, fruit and vegetable juices, milk and herbal teas can help you stay hydrated. 

Dehydration

If you do not consume enough water/fluid over time, you may become dehydrated. It is important to look out for the following signs:

• Little or no urine
• Urine is darker than normal
• Dry mouth
• Sleepiness or fatigue
• Extreme thirst

In extreme cases you could also experience headache, confusion, and dizziness or lightheadedness.

Tips to staying hydrated:

• Keep a bottle of water with you at all times.
• Drink water before, during, and after a workout or working outdoors.
• If your job is in an outdoor setting, keep a bottle of water near you and drink from it often.
• If you sweat a lot during workouts or on the job, sports drinks will help to not only help your body to absorb water, but also help to replace those electrolytes lost. 

For more information contact:

Shakera Williams, MPH

Assistant Extension Agent—Nutrition

Webster  Parish Extension Office

1202 Homer Road

Minden, LA 71055

Phone: (318) 371-1371

Email: sswilliams@agcenter.lsu.edu

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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.

July 18

Noon until 2 p.m. Yoga Workshop for teens and adults with Javelin Hardy. Minden library. No experience required. Please bring a yoga mat and towel. Contact Aubrie at 318-371-3080 ext. 135.

July 20

3:30 p.m. Ocean in a Bottle, Heflin branch of the Webster Parish Library.

4 p.m. Scary Shark Art for kids, Cotton Valley branch of the Webster Parish Library.

July 21

9 a.m. Minden City Council Workshop on City Employee Manual. Pelican Conference Room, Minden City Hall. The Public is invited to attend.

July 25

Noon until 2 p.m. Yoga Workshop for teens and adults with Javelin Hardy. Minden library. No experience required. Please bring a yoga mat and towel. Contact Aubrie at 318-371-3080 ext. 135.

July 27

3:30 p.m. CD & Button Turtle Craft, Heflin branch of the Webster Parish Library.

4 p.m. Special Performer: Steve’s Snaketuary, Cotton Valley branch of the Webster Parish Library.

August 1

Noon until 2 p.m. Yoga Workshop for teens and adults with Javelin Hardy. Minden library. No experience required. Please bring a yoga mat and towel. Contact Aubrie at 318-371-3080 ext. 135.

6 p.m. Glenbrook Elementary Football Practice. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday until school starts. Grades 3-6. Contact coaches if a second grader is interested. Shorts and T-shirt fine for first couple of practices.

August 4

Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK and Kindergarten Registration Day.

August 5

Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK teachers will contact families to share Orientation Day/Parent Meeting Information.

August 5 and 6

8 p.m. nightly. Pete Colvin Memorial Rodeo presented by Car-Giant of Minden. Jack Batton Arena, Minden, La.

August 5-10

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Parish Schools Kindergarten Orientation Days. Parents must transport students to school.

August 8

Noon until 2 p.m. Yoga Workshop for teens and adults with Javelin Hardy. Minden library. No experience required. Please bring a yoga mat and towel. Contact Aubrie at 318-371-3080 ext. 135.

August 8-11

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK Orientation Days. Parents must transport students to school.

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.

August 11

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Parish Schools’ Boys’ Day. Parents must transport students to school. Parent meeting at 1:30 p.m.

August 12

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Boys’ Day Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK program.

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Webster Parish Schools’ Girls’ Day. Parents must transport students to school. Parent meeting at 1:30 p.m.

August 15

9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Girls’Day Webster Parish Schools Preschool/PreK program.

First full day for all Kindergarten students in Webster Parish Schools.

August 15-17

3-4:30 p.m. Mini cheer camp sponsored by Glenbrook Booster Fan Club. Registration form must be returned by August 12. Performance will be August 18 during Back to School Night.

August 16

First full day for all Preschool/PreK students in Webster Parish Schools’ program.

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.

July 3

Ronald Wayne Hayden, 30 of the 100 block of Monica Ln., Springhill, was arrested by WPSO for simple burglary.

July 8

Rachael Maree Whaley, 45, of Hwy. 371, Cotton Valley, was arrested by Cotton Valley Police for domestic abuse battery.

July 8

Luke N. Thompson, 18, of the 200 block of Mary Drive, Minden, was arrested on two active warrants for theft.

Philip Edward, 28, of the 1200 block of Shiloh Rd., Minden, was arrested by MPD for possession of a stolen firearm.

July 11

Taylor McKenze Critton, 19, of Haynesville, was arrested by MPD for resisting with force or violence and expired registration.

Torry Capers, 30, of the 300 block of Weston, Minden, was arrested by Minden Police for failure to appear in court on a domestic abuse battery charge.

Sylvester Coleman, 29, of the 600 block of Columbia St., Minden, was arrested by MPD for failure to appear on a disturbing the peace charge.

July 12

Lance Jacob Souter, 35, of the 15,000 block of Hwy. 80, Minden, was arrested by WPSO on 3 active contempt of court warrants.

Crystal A. Elliott, 46, of Glen Allen, Va., was arrested by WPSO for illegal possession of stolen things.

Stephen Michael Duncan Jr., 50, of Fredericksburg, Va., was arrested by WPSO for illegal possession of stolen things and as a fugitive from Georgia law enforcement.

July 13

Bryan L. Coile, 36, of the 100 block of Hearron Rd., Sarepta, was arrested by Probation & Parole for a parole violation.

Tracy Nicole Martin, 44, of the 800 block of Fire Tower Rd., Shongaloo, was arrested by WPSO for operating a vehicle while under suspension, no insurance, secure registration and a warrant through WPSO.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named 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 July 8-July 13:

July 8

Haley Rhodes vs. Ladarius Rhodes, divorce.

Melinda M. Elliot vs. Jared D. Elliot, divorce

July 11

Kristopher Wayne Martin Jr. vs. Savannah Rose Heoben, divorce w/children.

Marsha D. Braswell vs. Christopher Lajarvis Eason, custody.

July 12

AF Jelt LLC dba Ashley Furniture Homestore, Shreveport vs. Austin Holstead and Rachel Shriver Holstead, monies due.

July 13

Darrium Andre Green vs. Ursula Antoinette Moore Green, divorce.

Karah Taylor vs. Rex Taylor, protective order.

Crystal Bradley vs. Erik Gonzalez, damages.

Jacobreious J. Walker vs. Lexa A. Crowley, damages.

Michael A. Gauthier vs. Judy Lyn Tridico, protective Order.

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Kyle Russell

Nov. 11, 1963 – July 4, 2022

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, July 15, 2022, as well as one hour before the service at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Chapel, Minden.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Saturday, July 16, 2022 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Chapel, Minden, La.

 

Gary Montgomery

Sept. 9, 1952 – July 12, 2022

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, July 14, 2022 at Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Funeral service: 10 a.m. Friday, July 15, 2022 at First Baptist Church, Springhill.

Burial: Springhill Cemetery.

 

Audrey Lavera George

Oct. 30, 1920 – July 11, 2022

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at Springhill Cemetery, Springhill, La.

Burial: follows under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

 

Rita Warren Hapgood Giddens

Dec. 7, 1929 – June 27, 2022

Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, July 23, 2022, Rose-Neath Chapel, Minden, La.

Memorial service: 11 a.m. Saturday, July 23, 2022, Rose-Neath Chapel, Minden, La.

Inurnment: Springhill Cemetery, Ringgold, La.

 

Malissa Ann Allen

Dec. 1, 1964 – July 4, 2022

Memorial service: 2 p.m. Saturday, July 16, 2022, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

 

Webster Parish Journal publishes 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 Town of Sibley Board of Aldermen approved a resolution at their July meeting, authorizing Mayor Jimmy Williams to begin negotiations to acquire Saltworks Water System. The town has been approached by the water system on numerous occasions recently.  

“They are going to lose where they bring in their water from, in fact it’s on the other side of Heflin,” said Mayor Williams. “Where they have the well drilled, the landowner is taking it away from them.” 

After meeting and reviewing figures, it seems acquiring the Saltworks Water System and consolidating with the Town of Sibley, may give them both a higher probability of getting approved to receive a grant provided by the Water Sector Program from the State of Louisiana. 

This program was established to provide grant funding for repairs, improvements, and consolidation of community water and sewer systems. They award grants according to which systems have the highest number of points. Systems receive points based on certain factors, which include project severity, resiliency, sustainability, and consolidation. This encourages systems in the state to consolidate in order to guarantee at least 20 points towards their total score.  

There are 32 water systems in Webster Parish alone, with most of them being smaller, rural systems. 

“We were first told we would get a total of 5 million dollars, 2 million would go to the Town of Sibley and 3 million would go to Saltworks. We had a meeting with our representative, Steve (Ramsey, Webster Parish Police Juror for District 11), myself and the engineers. The further we got to looking at it, we found out it’s not 5 million, but 10 million. Saltworks would get 5 and we would get 5,” said Williams. 

If they were to get approved for this grant, it would benefit both the Town of Sibley and Saltworks Water System. The 10 million dollars would allow them to drill new wells, install sand filters, electronic water meters and new pipe. This would also be beneficial for the local fire departments by supplying them with access to a greater number of fire hydrants. 

Williams said, “Saltworks is in a bind; they are in trouble. They need help and this would also help the town of Sibley. What we would get out of it, is basically a completely new system. We had to go up on rates and will probably have to again, but this should help to hold down the rates in the future.” 

The State of Louisiana allocated 300 million for Round 1 of this program and 450 million for Round 2. Systems may begin the application process for this second round as early as July 15, with the deadline being August 31. 

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