Webster Parish Sheriff’s investigators, working in conjunction with the Attorney General, Bossier Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security, have arrested a South Webster Parish man for child pornography.
Michael Allen Caston, 65, of the 100 block ofFalcon Loop, Doyline, is charged with five counts of pornography of juveniles under the age of 13 with possibly more to come.
“We’ve been working on this since June of ‘22, and we served arrest warrants this morning,” Sheriff Jason Parker said Thursday. “A further search of his devices leads us to believe there will be at least 200 more counts of a wide range of pornography.”
Caston was booked into Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. His bonds total $100,000.
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.
The state fire marshal is investigating a structure fire on Chrysler Street near Martin Luther King Drive from early Thursday.
Minden Fire Department responded to the call from a neighbor around 8 a.m. The woman said she was outside her home, picking up trash, and thought she was seeing fog until she realized it was smoke coming from the eaves of the house.
Fire Chief Brian Williams said the department responded to the call at 8:10 and were at the house within two minutes.
“It was a small fire, and it only took a couple of minutes to extinguish it,” he said. “The residence was vacant, but it did have utilities. We didn’t see evidence of a break-in, but there was possibly someone inside.”
“The owner told me the house had been vacant for a while,” Williams continued. “They were in the process of starting a remodel.”
Cause of the fire is undetermined. Damage was minimal.
Huck Cannon Hurley was welcomed into this world by his parents, big brother, Liam and big sister, Lyda with such excitement and joy. He was the ray of sunshine we prayed for to complete our family. His smile shined brightest through his eyes. When he smiled his biggest, the right side of his nose crinkled up, followed by a giggle and a happy squeal.
Huck was a precious gift of God given to us for only 189 days. We will never understand but we do not grieve without hope. We know that one day we will see him again, but for now, we find comfort in knowing that you are in your Heavenly Father’s arms and welcomed into your forever home by Gerty and many other loved ones.
Huck was born October 17, 2022 and was received in Jesus’ arms on April 24, 2023.
A celebration of life service will be held Friday, April 28, 2023 at First Methodist Church in Minden, La. Visitation will be at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m., both in the sanctuary. Rev. David Dietzel and Rev. Brian Mercer will be officiating. A private interment will follow at Gardens of Memory in Minden under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Minden.
Serving as pallbearers will be: Levi Madden, Jake Madden, Tony Shaw, and Andy Pendergrass. Honorary pallbearers: Blake Thomas and R.J. Mauldin.
Huck is preceded in death by his great grandparents, Ronnie “Pop” Shuler and Marsha “Mimi” Shuler; grandparents, Harold Eugene Howe, Leo Albert Neal, Sarah Margaret Madden, Kim “Gerty” Cannon (Huck’s namesake)
He is survived by his parents, Adam and Bailee Hurley and siblings, Liam and Lyda; grandparents Jeremy “P” and Andrea “Aya” Patterson, John “Big John” and Melissa “Mamoo” Madden, Adam and Colleen Hurley Sr. and Gerry Lynn Guidas.
Great grandparents include James and Lyda Madden, Ronald and Mary Hurley Sr., Kenneth and Virgina Guidas, and Mary Ellen Neal.
Survived by brothers and sisters: Levi and Darien Madden and children; Jake and Leah Madden and children; Josh and Kristen Newman and children; Tony and Jessica Shaw and children; and Wayne and Ashlyn Kittrall.
Also, Tim and Jennifer Thomas, Blake and Allison, Jessica Shuler and family, Doug and Sharon Madden, Nick and Ashley Rowton and family, Heath and Erin Ramsey and family, David and Connie Madden, Matt and Kelly Madden and family, Will and Niki Madden and family, Pedro and Caroline Rodrigues and family, Aaron and Savannah Aday and family, Clay and Catherine Simonton and family. Special family friend, Kaye Cannon.
The family extends special thanks to doctors, nurses, and staff at Minden Medical Center ER, Police Chief Jared McIver, Officer Anthony Crittendon and the overwhelming love and support of First Methodist Minden and the community of Minden.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Ronald McDonald House Shreveport/Bossier on Give for Good @ giveforgoodnla.org.
Lakeside Warriors fell behind early and couldn’t come back in a 4-2 loss to Mangham Dragons Thursday. Mangham scored on a error in the first inning, a walk by Austin Lively in the first inning, and a single by Gage Hutson in the second inning.
Lakeside evened things up at two in the bottom of the first inning. CJ Watts grounded out, scoring one run.
The Dragons pulled away for good with two runs in the second inning. In the second Hutson singled on the first pitch of the at bat, scoring two runs.
Hutson pitched Mangham to victory. He lasted seven innings, allowing three hits and two runs while striking out three and walking one.
Cooper Chase toed the rubber for the Warriors. Chase lasted one and one-third innings, allowing zero hits and four runs while striking out one. Jordan Isbell threw five and two-thirds innings in relief out of the bullpen.
Bradley Dick went 2-for-3 at the plate to lead Lakeside in hits.
Hutson led Mangham Dragons Varsity with two hits in four at bats.
Shooters arrived early for practice rounds and vendors put the finishing touches on displays for Thursday’s first day of the McKenzie Archery Shooters Association (ASA) Easton/Hoyt Pro/Am 2023 Tour event.
Last year’s first edition of the competition saw a turnout of more than 1,650 shooters, family and vendors and officials believe this year’s tournament could be even bigger. The ASA is scheduled for a 10-year run at the Camp Minden site, and economic impact is forecast to be $25 million over that period.
1 p.m. Intro to Kayaking, 194 Caney Lake Rd., Minden, Visit Webster Parish still has 20 spots open.
6 p.m. The Cox Family, First Baptist Church, Springhill.
May 4
6:30 p.m. National Day of Prayer Program, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Rd., Minden.
May 6
7:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Heart & Hands Sunday School class will host a rummage sale in the gymnasium at First Baptist Church in Minden, La. All proceeds go to mission work.
May 8
6 p.m. Night At The Museum, featuring Jessica Gorman. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.) Seating is limited. Please bring potluck snacks and desserts. Admission is free; donations welcome.
May 19
10 a.m. Vietnam Veterans Memorial Sign Dedication, Interstate 20 at Mile Marker 40, hosted by Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, American Legion Wiley-Pevy Post #74 and Hunter Dickerson VFW Post 2885 and Auxiliary. For more information, contact Cindy Madden at darcindymadden@gmail.com or 318-401-5420.
May 20
10 a.m. until noon Mental Health Awareness at Minden REC Center, 1001 Recreational Drive, Minden. Sponsored by the General Grand Masonic Congress, The Supreme Council and National Alliance on Mental Illness.
11 a.m. Lunch with program at noon, Armed Forces Day Celebration honoring all veterans, Minden Civic Center. Special guests: Vietnam Veterans. Hosted by Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, American Legion Wiley-Pevy Post #74 and Hunter Dickerson VFW Post 2885 and Auxiliary. For more information or to volunteer, contact Cindy Madden at darcindymadden@gmail.com or 318-401-5420.
Funeral service: 1 p.m. Friday, April 28, 2023, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1107 Broadway, Minden.
Burial: Minden Cemetery.
Margie Arnold
Oct. 12, 1938 – April 21, 2023
Shongaloo, La.
Funeral service: 4:30 p.m., immediately following visitation.
Sue Walker Camp
Dec. 16, 1944 – April 21, 2023
Shongaloo/Minden, La.
Funeral service: 10 a.m. Friday, April 28, 2023, Bailey Funeral Home Chapel, Springhill.
Burial: Western Cemetery, Emerson, Ark.
Henry Luther Boggs
June 10, 1934 – April 24, 2023
Visitation and memorial service: 10 a.m. Saturday, April 29, 2023, Cottage Grove Presbyterian Church, Plain Dealing, La.
Judy Ann Wise
January 24, 1948 – April 20, 2023
Shongaloo, La.
Visitation: 1 until 2 p.m. Saturday, April 29, Old Shongaloo Rock Church.
Funeral service: 2 p.m. immediately following visitation.
Burial: Old Shongaloo Cemetery, under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.
Webster Parish Journal publishes paid complete 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.)
Two persons from out of parish are in a Webster Parish jail following a routine traffic stop Monday.
Danny Lee William Lenard, 38, of the 1800 block of Bayou Bend Dr., Bossier City, was arrested by Minden Police for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, obstruction of justice, operating a vehicle with suspended license, possession of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle and missing brake light.
Kelli Powers Long, 40, of the 6400 block of Willard Ave., Shreveport, is charged with possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, obstruction of justice, open container and on an active warrant for theft of a motor vehicle.
Minden Police Chief Jared McIver said Sgt. Chris Cayer and Off. Cadyn O’Connor were patrolling in the Homer Road area around 8 p.m. April 24 when they noticed a grey Chevrolet Silvardo traveling north. The vehicle was reportedly missing a driver’s side tail light.
“Sgt. Cayer initiated a traffic stop near the intersection of Homer Road and Country Club Circle,” said the chief. “The truck was displaying a Mississippi license plate.”
McIver said the driver was identified as Lenard and there were two female passengers with him in the single cab truck. One was identified as Long.
“When officers talked to Lenard, he told them his license was suspended,” McIver said. “The officers asked Lenard to step out of the vehicle and asked for consent to search it.”
Lenard reportedly made the comment, “There’s nothing in my vehicle but an open beer and (Long) was drinking that. So, no, I don’t want you to search, I don’t have time.”
By admitting there was an open container inside of the vehicle, officers then had probable cause to search for more open containers. Long and the other female passenger were asked to exit the vehicle.
“Officers located a 40-ounce beer in the middle of the truck, closer to the passenger side,” McIver said. “Inside the bottle Sgt. Cayer located a plastic baggie that contained suspected methamphetamine. Both women stated the beer belonged to Lenard. Lenard and Long denied the beer and the suspected meth.”
The other passenger reportedly claimed Lenard was drinking the beer first and passed the beer to Long. She also reportedly stated that she and Lenard watched Long disposed of the suspected drugs into the beer bottle and then shot the contents of a syringeinto it. A syringe was reportedly located in the middle of the truck.
Lenard and Long were transported to Minden City Police Department and transferred 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.
From left, Chamber Chairman Jennifer Spurlock, Chamber CEO Stephanie Barnette, Phil McInnis and Pam Bloxom as McInnis receives his award at the recent Chamber banquet.
By Marilyn Miller
Who knew that when Philip McInnis was in the fourth grade, he would watch as the Minden Crimson Tide basketball team brought home the 1958-59 State Championship trophy. Who knew that it would inspire him to play basketball, and that he would play varsity basketball at MHS from 1965 to 1967.
Who knew that years later, he would invite a pig-tailed Louisiana Tech basketball player and gold medal-winning Olympic athlete to address the Minden Lions Club. And who knew that even later, now Coach Kim Mulkey (without the pigtails, but with some eye-catching outfits), would lead the LSU girls’ basketball team to the National Championship trophy for Louisiana for the first time in history.
Not exactly six degrees of separation. But close enough!
Philip learned teamwork from basketball, and his father, Harry McInnis, Sr.
And the teamwork developed by today’s company owners Harry, George and Philip McInnis – and a committed, experienced corps of employees – has contributed many, many years to McInnis Insurance Agency’s nearly 100 years of success.
The two McInnis brothers and cousin relied on that teamwork when they decided to turn the ownership of McInnis Brothers Construction, Inc. over to its employees via an Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) in 2008. The successful company turned 75 in 2022.
“We have some employees who have been with us over 40 years,” Philip noted, “And others for 20 or 30. We have been incredibly blessed by the quality of our people.”
Teamwork has always been a part of the McInnis business plan. “We didn’t embark on much that we didn’t all agree on,” Philip said. “We expressed our differences at times, but could always come to a decision that we could live with.”
“I do remember one time that we had to take a vote!” he admitted, adding that always relying on a consensus of the company owners “would never be a way that I would recommend running a board or business.” But Phillip and Harry’s father, Harry McInnis, Sr., and George’s father, John McInnis, Jr., were very close as brothers and partners, and they “set a pretty good example for us. I recognize how positively unusual it was!”
WORSE YEAR THAN COVID?!
The year 2003 was a BAD one for Philip McInnis, even though the voters gave the then chairman of the Minden/South Webster Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors a win. It was a long, drawn-out battle to introduce the serving of alcoholic drinks in restaurants. Philip remembers it as “stressful.” But he has no regrets. “Although it didn’t happen overnight, I don’t think we would have the selection of restaurants we have now if not for alcohol sales.”
The year 2003 also saw Phillip spending six months going to five different specialists to try to diagnose a back problem. He still has trouble with it today.
And on November 30, 2003, his “Pop,” Harry McInnis, Sr., died at the age of 90 after months spent in decline.
“I would go through COVID again before I’d repeat 2003,” Philip admits.
HIS TROUPER ALWAYS
Through the ups and the downs of business, civic work, and chamber of commerce service, Philip has always been able to rely on one person, his wife, Kathy Windham McInnis, who he married 36 years ago.
“Kathy should have been up there receiving the (Achievement) award with me,” he said, thanking his wife, who gives him feedback on many projects, and persevered with children, dogs, and cats when he was AWOL at the office.
The couple has two children, Meg and Mark.
Margaret E. (Meg) McInnis Weeks, who is married to Stephen Weeks, works in the Cataloging Dept. at the Webster Parish Library in Minden. Mark Philip McInnis, Jr., is married to Lucy McInnis and they live in Raleigh, North Carolina. Mark is a broker for RT Specialties, a large insurance brokerage.
Philip is a life member of First Methodist Church of Minden. He has served in many capacities, including chairmanships of the Administrative, Board of Trustees, Pastor-Parish Relations, and Stewardship committees and councils.
Very civic-minded, Philip has served as chairman (2003) and member of the Executive Committee for the Minden/South Webster Chamber of Commerce, and multiple terms as a member of the Chamber Board of Directors.
He served as chairman of the Minden Medical Center Advisory Board, and was a member of the NW LA United Way board, the Strand Theatre Corporation board, the Shreveport Symphony board; and has been affiliated with many trade associations, including the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of Louisiana Board of Directors for eight years.
Philip is fond of his time with the Minden Lions Club, which he has served as president. He was also the recipient of the Lion of the Year Award. But his fondest memories are of roasting other members in “Sweetheart Banquet” skits.
“I lost a lot of friends, but it was a lot of fun,” Phillip laughed.
Philip is also proud of being from a city which gives so much to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. He gives all credit and thanks to the incredible leaders who do an “unbelievable job of bringing our community together” for the event each year.
“Pete Treat was one of the neighborhood boys on Bay Creek Road,” he said of the organizer of the first “St. Jude Radiothon” over KASO radio, and which has now grown into the Minden St. Jude Auction. The world-reaching auction has raised over two million dollars for children with cancer and blood diseases in each of the past two years.
“This just shows you what Minden is capable of doing,” he said.
“LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT”
The Greater Minden Chamber of Commerce’s Lifetime Achievement Award was the “nicest honor I’ve ever received,” Philip said. “It was totally unexpected. My wife and employees kept it a secret from me…it was great receiving the award, but I do have trust issues with them now.”
Philip said he was actually enjoying the banquet without having to take part in it, and watching emcees Tracy and Jake doing such a great job…
”And then they called my name out and I had to speak!”
From our ol’ rocker, we were glad to see a nice turnout for the annual Tartan Festival, complete with the plaid skilts worn by persons who identified only as Scottish and not something more politically wokisome.
A few months ago, your favorite rocker occupant penned an opinion that some considered a little less than favorable concerning the site of this particular occasion. At that time our slant on the subject was, to put it mildly, excoriatingly received in certain circles.
We’re not ready to completely change our minds about the Miller Quarters as a festival site, but we will concede the place wasn’t all that bad…considering. It was good to see the property receive a much-needed haircut, and it was nice to read the reviews from attendees reflecting on the surroundings, especially the decision to leave a number of Mother Nature’s gift to the grounds.
It’s just the thoughts of one who may be curmudgeonly benign,but Miller Quarters as a site for future events such as that of the weekend past still leaves a little to be desired.
Drone views and a drive-by left us thinking there needs to be a way to utilize more than approximately a quarter of the Quarters’ grounds, and a way to have an event there that doesn’t include completely shutting down Gleason St.
We understand this was a first-time try at something attracting a large gathering, and we know it takes money to develop a full-fledged activity site. There’s a lot of space available, and that’s one advantage for Miller Quarters. There’s also a lot of hilly space and that, friends and naysayers, is a pretty noticeable disadvantage.
Let’s be fair. This Scottish Festival was nicely done and the folks who are responsible for organizing the event should get a special puff on their ceremonial bagpipe. We who were slightly (or maybe not so slightly) skeptical about the possibility of this area becoming a very special special event center are pulling for the success of anything that will draw crowds.
To be fairer, it’s going to take more than an identifying entrance arch and a few outdoor doodads to make Miller Quarters a destination. The site has promise, but it’s going to take foresight, imagination and cooperation. This is something that requires planning from multiple sources and an “it doesn’t ‘t matter who gets the credit” attitude.
Final thought: If any of you come face to face with an issue that causes concern, be offended. That, we’ve learned, is one of the most impactive words in this language we supremacists of European (and other) heritage call English. If there’s something we don’t like, be offended and you’re guaranteed action.
Examples: A couple of years ago, one family in a small midwestern city was offended by a Christmas parade. Their solution to that problem: write a protest letter to city hall. Result: city administration cancelled parade. The heck with the thousands who weren’t bothered a’tall.
A candidate for superintendent of schools in a Massachusetts district was offered, then disoffered, the job after sending an email to a pair of female (preferred pronouns unknown) committee members in which he addressed the pair as “ladies.” They, and the school board, were offended by this act of microaggression.
A low-level government employee leaks sensitive information to the media. Why? He was offended by his country’s policies. His punishment? Nothing. His reward? A level of fame known only to the Kardashian few.
Being offended is now a right, and it carries power. Those among us peons need to recognize the potential this carries. If we’re offended enough by the powers that be, we might be the powers.
So go ahead. Be offended. Practice being offended. You never know when offendedness will be handy, or even handsomely rewarded. Just remember: Never be offended at warm and fuzzy dudes in rockin’ chairs.
While looking for information about the Minden Brick Works, I came across an interesting story that involved a potential threat against Minden in the early 1900s.
In mid-December 1905, Shreveport was abuzz with speculation about a letter containing threats of robbery, murder, “dynamiting of a bank in Minden and possible burning of the entire town.” While some believed it to be nothing more than a hoax, others were fearful for the safety of those threatened. Mrs. Libbie Merritt told he following story about the origin of the letter.
On the afternoon of December 14th, Mrs. Merritt was walking behind three men near the Union Depot on Louisiana Avenue in Shreveport. Mrs. Merritt overheard one of the men say, “we had better scatter out now, so the cops won’t get us,” before one of them dropped a letter. A witness observed her retrieving the letter and informed one of the men that she had picked it up. The man confronted her, but Mrs. Merritt denied being in possession of the letter before stating that she would not give it to him because he had not dropped it. The man even offered payment in exchange for the letter, but Mrs. Merritt refused, and the man seemed to give up.
Mrs. Merritt continued, but near her home on Davis Street, the man confronted her again. This time he threatened to kill her. He then proceeded to hit her in the face before two men intervened causing the man to flee. She had intended to take the letter to the police but was now so afraid that she related the story to the mail carrier and asked him to take the letter to Shreveport Chief of Police G.F. Gerrald.
Chief Gerrald examined the letter and immediately sent officers in search of the men. The letter, claiming to be written by a member of a Russian gang, included several threats. The first being to rob and blow up a bank in Minden, claiming that dynamite had already been hidden nearby. Consideration was made to blow up the entire town as a diversion while the bank was robbed.
Next, the letter revealed a plan to rob and murder businessman J.W. Atkins that Saturday night and murder Judge W.P. Hall the following week. Afterward, the gang was to meet up before returning to Europe the next month. A reference was also made to a desire to assassinate President Theodore Roosevelt.
While his officers were searching the city, Chief Gerrald contacted authorities in Minden. Reportedly, they revealed that dynamite had been stolen from the Minden Brick Works. It was also claimed that a man in Shreveport had been paid to lead the men “to a place in the woods from which they could get to Minden.”
Shreveport Mayor Andrew C. Querbes expressed his skepticism but felt that there was sufficient evidence to consider the threats credible. Differing accounts were given as to Chief Gerrald’s opinion. The Shreveport Journal quoted him as having enough evidence to deem it a joke that had gone too far and cost the city money. He denied having made such a statement. His rebuttal in the Shreveport Times explained that his words had been taken out of context and were in response to a man who had stated that he believed it to be hoax. Reportedly, the sherriff’s office was convinced that it was entirely the work of someone playing a joke on the Shreveport Police Department and that no such gang existed.
The following day, Mrs. Merritt made a public statement in response to the public scrutiny of her story which had begun to show inconsistencies such as whether the man had struck her on the face or the chest. It was also revealed that the men who had scared away the gang member never actually saw him.
At the same time, Chief Gerrald had received confirmation from Baton Rouge that a second letter referred to in the first, that was to have been left at Baton Rouge and addressed to “Mr. Richardson, Cotton Buyer,” had been found there at the post office. Claims had also been made that a woman matching the description of one believed to be involved with the gang had taken a train to Mena, Arkansas.
Saturday night came and went without an attempt on the life of J.W. Atkins. The investigation continued. While Minden officials remained on alert for a possible bank robbery, none occurred. Another letter brought to the Shreveport police, stated that the man who had dropped the letter had been killed and thrown into the Red River.
The next week, it was announced by Chief Gerrald that enough evidence had been collected to prove the whole plot a hoax and the work of a woman believed to be suffering from a mental condition. Handwriting comparison of all the letters was made as well as a comparison to other samples of the woman’s handwriting. The woman’s name was not revealed, but interestingly, Mrs. Libbie Merritt had filed suit against the City of Shreveport just months before.
Disappointingly, we have no known accounts of this incident that relate the response of the citizens of Minden.
(Jessica Gorman is the Assistant Director and Archivist for the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum in Minden and is an avid genealogist.)
A pair of parish high school baseball teams are in the second round of upcoming state playoff games.
Lakeside High School is scheduled to play Mangham at 6 p.m. today (Thursday) at Lakeside, south of Sibley. If weather interferes, the game will be moved to Friday.
Glenbrook faces Vermillion Catholic at Glenbrook at 6 p.m. Friday in Minden.
As we approach our first Armed Forces Day Celebration at the Minden Civic Center on May 20, 2023, we need to take a moment to remember the 14 brave young military personal that gave their lives during the Vietnam War.
First in alphabetical order is Lance Corporal George Allen Branch from Minden.He was born 26 September 1947, to Norman L Branch and Cloteal Jones Branch.He was single at the time of his death and a Protestant.He was a member of the United States Marine Corps and was a rifleman.He will Killed in Action on 18 August 1968 in the Quang Nam, Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam) by small arms fire.
His body was recovered and returned for burial at the Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Minden, Louisiana.His name can be found on Panel 48W Line 038 on the Vietnam Memorial.He was awarded the Purple Heart.
He will be honored at our Armed Forced Day Celebration.Please remember his sacrifice and the freedom he gave us.
(Information taken from Find a Grave)
Cindy Madden
Regent – Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution
What do strawberries, sweet potatoes, cotton, catalpa worms, tung oil, flooded playgrounds, white lupine, ponds, pine trees, gullies, tree sales, Trailblazer, scholarships and more have to do with Webster Parish?How many people know that Webster Parish and Lincoln Parish had two of the first conservation projects in the nation with Minden Project 1 leading the way.
All of the above came about because of an agency known as Dorcheat Soil and Water Conservation District located in Minden, Louisiana.
1933 has been called the year of disaster especially in the Minden area.Not only was there a lethal tornado, a devastating fire, there was a drought so severe the ground broke open.Then there were extreme rain showers which damaged an already fragile land system.Fifty to seventy-five percent of the topsoil washed away leaving large gullies and general erosion in the area.Clear cutting of trees and extreme tilling of the soil did even more damage.It takes hundreds of years to build one inch of topsoil but help was on the way.It started at the national level with our nation’s first President George Washington who became concerned about the wise use of our natural resources also known as conservation and about the complete clearing of land for homes.Other presidents supported conservation but Franklin Delano Roosevelt put it into practice.In 1933, the U. S. Soil Erosion Service was set up.This new agency would put Webster Parish and Lincoln Parish in the “national limelight” as participants in the first conservation projects that were awarded grants.Although the local Soil and Water Conservation District was not formally formed until 1939, work was already being done on the Project 1 in 1934.The project was a 55,000 acre demonstration project on Cooley and Brushy Creeks in Northwest Louisiana.The importance of the project is that these creeks are tributaries of the Red River drainage system which drains in Northern Texas, Southern Oklahoma, Southwest Arkansas, and Western Louisiana.So how did the first paragraph fit into this?Those were some of the ways and change of crops that were used to get rid of gullies, flooded areas, and poor pastureland and were actual crops for many years.
Pages could be written about how the district has helped not only the farmers but all the communities around.“Help” is still being given and information is always available at the Dorcheat Soil and Water Conservation District office located at 216 B Broadway Street, Minden, LA.The district partners with the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) formally known as the USDA Soil Conservation Service, to offer technical services and cost-share to landowners in the Dorcheat SWCD/Webster Parish.
The week of April 30 through May 7, 2023 is celebrated nationally as “Soil and Water Stewardship Week.”This year’s theme is “One Water.”This reminds us we all live in a watershed and share the water in our watershed with other people, animals and plants because it is “One Water.”For more information, contact the Dorcheat SWCD at 318-377-3950 Ext. 3.
My husband and I took the girls camping this past weekend at Lake Bistineau State Park. It is a favorite spot of ours because it is just close enough to our house that we can pop in and tend to the dogs or pick up anything we may have forgotten (which happens a lot). It is also close enough that my husband does not have to burn a ton of gas after hauling the camper and then making a second trip to fetch his boat. See, pulling a trailer is not something I would trust myself with. He would probably let me attempt to pull the camper before his boat though. A skill I will learn one of these days… maybe.
It is also a favorite of ours for a few other reasons. One… the lake, obviously. Two… they have plenty of playground equipment to keep the girls entertained for most of the day. Three… you are bound to run into at least a handful of people you know. This is a good thing, after you have been stuck in a camper in the middle of nowhere trying to keep three kids entertained while your husband is out on the boat and there is not enough service for their i-Pads to work. A little adult interaction helps keep the sanity in check.
I think I have mentioned before though that I am not the most sociable person ever? That would be a problem, but I have my kids for that. Most of the time, they leave me no choice.
For instance, while we were camping last Saturday the girls wanted to go on a walk. As we were taking this walk around the other campsites, the girls encountered a little fluffy dog with her human in tow. Of course, they must stop to greet the dog and only the dog, never even looking up at the lady at the other end of the leash. So, I am forced to stop being such a recluse and make small talk with her.
Turns out, she was camping with her husband and another couple who just so happened to be family friends of mine. Small world, right? After a few more minutes of puppy kisses and small talk, we go our separate ways. Do not let me forget this important detail: the dog’s name is RayRay.
The reason this is important is because it is all I heard for the next three hours from both Ashton and Kameron. “RayRay this, RayRay that. I want to pet RayRay. Where is RayRay?”
Coincidentally, RayRay was staying two camps over and they see her outside a little later in the evening, so my husband and I walk over and ask the lady if the girls can pet the infamous RayRay before we head off to find something to eat.
Somehow, things transpired into us getting invited to eat dinner with them. It was really great. The kids forced me to get out of my shell and my husband and I were able to enjoy some great fellowship with these two other couples – sharing stories and eating a delicious meal that I did not have to prepare. I feel like I say this a lot… But in case you have not read any of my past articles, I am happy as can be any time I get to eat a meal that I did not have to shop for or cook.
Oh, and the girls (and RayRay) were completely played out by bedtime. Win-win for everybody!
P.S. This was almost a whole week ago and I am still hearing all about RayRay. We ran into her one more time while loading up to head home on Sunday and I am pretty sure Ashton has a playdate set up with RayRay and our poodle Harley in the near future.
(Paige Nash is a wife, mother, publisher of Bienville Parish Journal and Claiborne Parish Journal and a digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal. She’s learning to be more social.)
Lion Sheriff Jason Parker (left) and Lion Paul Kitchens, who introduced Sheriff Parker on Thursday.
By Tracy Campbell
Guest speaker for last Thursday’s Minden Lions Club meeting was our own Lion Jason Parker, Webster Parish sheriff.
Sheriff Parker provided an update on the sheriff’s office and reported that 150 employees serve approximately 36,000 citizens across the parish. He said 20 deputies – both full and part time – responded to 3,838 calls in the past 365 days – an average of 325 calls a month. Those calls were everything from stranded motorists to domestic abuse to shootings.
At Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center at Camp Minden, 89 employees are responsible for operating the facility and supervising its 626 offenders.
Sheriff Parker spent a great deal of time speaking about the narcotics problem in the parish, of which he and his department have zero tolerance. In the past 365 days, three full-time narcotics agents including one agent assigned to the DEA task force in Shreveport seized approximately 1,866 grams of marijuana, 1,000 grams of methamphetamine, 6,800 dosage units of assorted pills, 800 ecstasy pills, and 35 firearms.
“A high percent of crime in our parish is related to narcotics activity – that includes thefts, robberies, shootings and disturbances,” said Sheriff Parker. “We’re doing what we can to get these drugs off the street, but please do what you can to protect your property. Criminal elements are constantly looking for opportunities, so lock your vehicles and homes and secure your ATVs and trailers the best you can.”
Shifting gears, Sheriff Parker said that he is proud that additional school resource officers (SRO) were allocated so that all schools in Webster Parish now have an officer present. He credited a partnership with the Webster Parish School Board, Minden Police Department and Springhill Police Department.
“Our children are our most valuable resource,” Sheriff Parker emphasized. “The deputies are not just present to serve as a deterrent against criminal activity, but also to build relationships with these kids. Those relationships can make a big difference in the life of a child, and they can be long-lasting.”
Other topics Sheriff Parker covered included the future women’s detention facility off Penal Farm Road (currently in the groundbreaking phase), plans for community firearms trainings, and the purpose behind the speed display trailers located in various places throughout the parish.
The Minden Lions Club appreciates the work Sheriff Parker – and all employees of WPSO – do to serve, protect and educate the citizens of Webster Parish.
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 six 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
(Shakera Williams, M.P.H. is Assistant Nutrition Extension Agent- FCS for Webster/Claiborne parishes. Contact her at (318) 371-1371.)
The following arrests were made by local law enforcement agencies. Minden Police Department (MPD), Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office (WPSO), Louisiana State Police (LSP) and others which are named.
April 25
Burney Wade Mitchell, 64, of the 400 block of Patrick St., Minden, was arrested by MPD for aggravated assault (pocket knife).
April 26
Davaris Moore, 31, of the 16000 block of Hwy. 80. Minden, was arrested by MPD on outstanding warrants for simple criminal damage to property, illegal entry/remaining after being forbidden, proof of insurance, tail lamps, remaining after being forbidden, disturbing the peace, theft and indecent exposure.
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.
1 p.m. Intro to Kayaking, 194 Caney Lake Rd., Minden, Visit Webster Parish still has 20 spots open.
6 p.m. The Cox Family, First Baptist Church, Springhill.
May 4
6:30 p.m. National Day of Prayer Program, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Rd., Minden.
May 6
7:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Heart & Hands Sunday School class will host a rummage sale in the gymnasium at First Baptist Church in Minden, La. All proceeds go to mission work.
May 8
6 p.m. Night At The Museum, featuring Jessica Gorman. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.) Seating is limited. Please bring potluck snacks and desserts. Admission is free; donations welcome.
May 19
10 a.m. Vietnam Veterans Memorial Sign Dedication, Interstate 20 at Mile Marker 40, hosted by Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, American Legion Wiley-Pevy Post #74 and Hunter Dickerson VFW Post 2885 and Auxiliary. For more information, contact Cindy Madden at darcindymadden@gmail.com or 318-401-5420.
May 20
10 a.m. until noon Mental Health Awareness at Minden REC Center, 1001 Recreational Drive, Minden. Sponsored by the General Grand Masonic Congress, The Supreme Council and National Alliance on Mental Illness.
11 a.m. Lunch with program at noon, Armed Forces Day Celebration honoring all veterans, Minden Civic Center. Special guests: Vietnam Veterans. Hosted by Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, American Legion Wiley-Pevy Post #74 and Hunter Dickerson VFW Post 2885 and Auxiliary. For more information or to volunteer, contact Cindy Madden at darcindymadden@gmail.com or 318-401-5420.
Visitation: 10 a.m. Friday, April 28, 2023, First Methodist Church, Minden.
Funeral service: 11 a.m. following visitation.
Terry Dennis Snook
August 27, 1947 – April 24, 2023
Minden, La.
Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, April 27, 2023, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Funeral service: 1 p.m. Friday, April 28, 2023, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1107 Broadway, Minden.
Burial: Minden Cemetery.
Margie Arnold
Oct. 12, 1938 – April 21, 2023
Shongaloo, La.
Visitation: 3 until 4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 27, 2023, Bailey Funeral Home.
Funeral service: 4:30 p.m., immediately following visitation.
Sue Walker Camp
Dec. 16, 1944 – April 21, 2023
Shongaloo/Minden, La.
Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, April 27, 2023, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.
Funeral service: 10 a.m. Friday, April 28, 2023, Bailey Funeral Home Chapel, Springhill.
Burial: Western Cemetery, Emerson, Ark.
Henry Luther Boggs
June 10, 1934 – April 24, 2023
Visitation and memorial service: 10 a.m. Saturday, April 29, 2023, Cottage Grove Presbyterian Church, Plain Dealing, La.
Judy Ann Wise
January 24, 1948 – April 20, 2023
Shongaloo, La.
Visitation: 1 until 2 p.m. Saturday, April 29, Old Shongaloo Rock Church.
Funeral service: 2 p.m. immediately following visitation.
Burial: Old Shongaloo Cemetery, under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.
Webster Parish Journal publishes paid complete 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.)
A juvenile is in Ocshner/LSU in Shreveport after he was struck with a bullet Monday night.
Cotton Valley Police Chief Donald Dillard Jr., said around 8 p.m., suspects allegedly shot at a home on Hwy. 371 and struck the 17-year-old in the hip.
“We have some potential suspects,” Dillard said around mid-morning Tuesday. “It’s still under investigation at this time.”
Dillard said approximately 40 rounds were shot from handguns and other firearms and casings were recovered.
Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office is assisting with the investigation.
