By Bonnie Culverhouse

City officials are unsure why a Sunday evening storm knocked out power city-wide for a short time.

Minden Mayor Nick Cox said the wind was bad enough to take down trees, limbs and send other debris flying, and that may have been the culprit.

“Or it could’ve been lightning that tripped the main feed,” Cox said. 

“There were four or five trees down that took out some power lines – a couple landed on cars but there was no one in them,” said Public Works Director Tyler Wallace. “We got the city back on, then we had to chase the little switches and breakers.”

Cox said the switches “came open” in neighborhoods all across the town.

“Nobody was expecting it; it just blew up from the east,” Cox said. “It threw everything off.”

City workers from surrounding towns and communities told Wallace they didn’t have a drop of rain, while Minden was inundated.

“They had no idea why they were being called in to work,” Wallace said.

A second storm, rolling through around 8:30 p.m. Monday, caused a more condensed area of outage. Some residences tied to the Germantown substation had issues due to a problem with a transformer. Power was restored in around 45 minutes.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A man arrested for breaking into two local businesses and stealing equipment to sell now has additional charges.

During an interview with Webster Parish Sheriff’s investigators, Michael Joe Reeves of Minden allegedly confessed to a break-in at the 400 block of SandPlant Road in July and August of 2022.

“Reeves entered the property without authorization from the owner and stole numerous tools and 12 firearms,” Sheriff Jason Parker said. “He pawned a quantity of the tools at local pawnshops.”

Parker said at first Reeves reportedly denied stealing the firearms, however, he eventually told investigators where they were stored.

Reeves is now charged with simple burglary, theft of firearms and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.

Previous charges include 2 counts of simple criminal damage and simple burglary and an outstanding warrant for illegal possession of stolen things.

Reeves admitted to breaking into a business on La. Hwy. 531 and one on Sibley Road, stealing items to sell and telling investigators he has “‘a very bad crack cocaine addiction’ and was stealing the items to support his habit.”

Parker said there may be more charges to come in this case.

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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In an effort to keep their boat launches and courthouse beautiful, Webster Parish Police Jury has been selected as a recipient of the 2022 Keep Louisiana Beautiful Trash Receptacle Grant by Keep Louisiana Beautiful, the state’s premier anti-litter an community improvement organization.

Webster Parish Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness Director Brian Williams said the grant will provide funding to install 10 high-quality trash receptacles at five public boat launches and the Webster Parish Courthouse.

“This project will assist in the reduction of litter around our boat launches and Bayou Dorcheat waterway,” said Williams, who found and applied for the grant.

The police jury will install the trash receptacles and the WPPJ Litter Crew will maintain them.

“We are excited to have this grant,” Williams said. “And I’m excited to be able to help the WPPJ secure the receptacles for the citizens that use the boat launches to dispose of their trash when returning from the waterway.”

Williams added the receptacles should also benefit the growing number of kayakers that have been taking to Bayou Dorcheat.

Keep Louisiana Beautiful is a non-profit organization dedicated to achieving a cleaner, greener Louisiana through litter reduction an beautification initiatives. To learn abut their network of Community and University Affiliates, grant opportunities, educational programs and ways to get involved, visit keeplouisianabeautiful.org. Keep Louisiana Beautiful is an affiliate of Keep American Beautiful.

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So this dude lamented to his friends that he had spent an entire year trying to change but “I’m still me.”

“Did you wanna be someone else?” one of his mates asked. 

“Yeah,” he replied and paused and reflected before adding, “Someone better.”

Isn’t that all of us?  Maybe not. You can’t see inside the hearts of others and we’ve all been betrayed, sold out and disappointed so many times that cynicism courses through our veins heavier than any drops of crimson. 

“Human beings are never gonna be perfect, Roy,” one friend answered. “The best we can do is to keep asking for help and accepting it when you can. And if you keep on doing that, you’ll always be moving towards better.”

I saw myself in the conversation, and I think I saw a lot people I know in it as well. You can’t see inside someone’s heart. No, you can’t. Already said that. But you can read a face. And in the faces and mannerisms and tones of voice of a lot of people I know, I can see they’re struggling with the same things I do. 

Just people. Running in circles in the sand. Doing their best not to just lay down and let the tide sweep them away out to whatever undiscovered land lays beyond the sea. 

I saw myself in the conversation. I saw myself in the man. I saw myself in the show. I’ve written of it before, probably as many times as I’ve cried during its airings, and I’ll write about it again. 

Ted Lasso aired its final episode last week. It has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. There are several reasons for its popularity, and these can be attributed to its positive and uplifting message, well-developed characters, balance of humor and heart, and timely themes.

At the heart of it is a central message about the power of kindness, empathy, and positivity. The show’s titular character, Ted Lasso, is a refreshing change from the typical aggressive and cut-throat sports culture. His personality and approach to coaching are grounded in a deep sense of empathy and compassion, which he uses to build relationships with his players and colleagues. The show celebrates the idea that a little bit of kindness can go a long way, and that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to maintain a positive outlook and make a difference.

One of the show’s strengths is its well-developed characters. Each character is complex and multidimensional, with their own unique quirks and personalities. The show takes the time to explore their backstories and motivations, making them feel like real people rather than caricatures. By doing so, the audience becomes invested in their struggles and triumphs, rooting for them as they navigate the challenges of life.

It strikes a balance between humor and heart, making it both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The humor is often light-hearted and wholesome, providing a much-needed break from the cynicism and negativity that can sometimes dominate popular culture. At the same time, the show is not afraid to tackle serious issues, such as anxiety, depression, and identity, with sensitivity and compassion. This balance of humor and heart creates a show that is both enjoyable and meaningful.

It is timely in its themes of empathy, inclusivity, and mental health. In today’s world, these issues are more important than ever, and the show’s approach to them is refreshing. It tackles them head-on, without shying away from their complexity, and provides a nuanced perspective that is both insightful and thought-provoking.

It’s such a well-crafted show that celebrates the power of kindness and positivity. Its engaging characters, humor, and timely themes have struck a chord with audiences and made it a beloved show. By embodying these values, it has become not only a source of entertainment but also a beacon of hope in a world that can sometimes feel dark and overwhelming.

“Human beings are never gonna be perfect, Roy,” one friend answered. “The best we can do is to keep asking for help and accepting it when you can. And if you keep on doing that, you’ll always be moving towards better.”

I see myself there. I see you there as well. Let’s promise one another a pair of things. We’ll never stop asking each other for help and we’ll never stop helping each other when we do. 

(Josh Beavers is a teacher and a writer. He has been recognized five times for excellence in opinion writing by the  Louisiana Press Association.)

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By Paige Nash

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the brand-new kayak launch dock was held along Bayou Dorcheat in Dixie Inn last Friday, June 2. 

Members of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission (WPCVC) were in attendance along with members of the Bayou Chapter of the Ozark Society, Greater Minden Chamber, Webster Parish Police Jury, Dorcheat Bayou Rentals, EZ Dock, Dixie Inn council and Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries. 

Greater Minden Chamber President Stephanie Barnett welcomed the attendees. She said, “We are super excited to be here and help Webster Parish Tourism open their new kayak launch. They have done a tremendous job getting the knowledge out about our waterways and all the experiences you can have out here on the water.” 

WPCVC Executive Director Serena Gray has been working on this project for almost 5 years and credited the board and their partnership with EZ Docks and the Webster Parish Police Jury for assisting in establishing the very first dock in Webster Parish.  

“We could not be doing this without the police jury’s partnership and cooperation in placing these docks on their property,” said Gray “We had lots of conversations. So, we absolutely would not have been able to place these without their support and all the work they are going to do at the other locations.” 

The two locations under consideration are the Sibley public boat launch on Highway 164 or in Shongaloo on Highway 2. 

“There is some groundwork that needs to happen at both locations, so we will assess which project is going to be quicker and put the dock at that location,” said Gray. “The work that goes into preparing the land for these docks is done with the police jury’s help. They see the vision of tourism and what we are doing, and they want to help accomplish the dreams and plans we have for the parish.” 

Dixie Inn alderwoman Nell Finlay expressed her excitement for having this new asset in town.  

“Our little town works hard, and we try to do everything we can to keep it going. It has been a big loss with our fish place, but this is going to really pick it back up for us,” said Finlay.   

The first Moonlight Paddle event of the year was scheduled for the following day, Saturday, June 4, but was cancelled due to weather and will be rescheduled at a later date.  

Dorcheat Bayou Rentals offers single, tandem and kayak trailers per day for events and everyday use. For a single it is $60 per day, tandem is $70 per day and for a kayak trailer it is $50 per day. All rentals include a lifejacket and paddle. If you are interested in renting from them, please call 318-403-3440 to book your reservation. Kayak

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By Paige Nash

The KTBS 3 Community Caravan may be seen making its way around Minden this week, June 5 – 9. 

Veteran journalist and reporter Rick Rowe will be highlighting certain locations around town.  

“We always get a great return on investment from this program, and we will continue to do it as long as it works for us,” said Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission Executive Director Serena Gray.

On Monday Rowe joined Gray for a segment on Bayou Dorcheat and the brand-new kayak launch dock in Dixie Inn. 

Tuesday they will be visiting with Tom Arnold, owner of Ol’ West BBQ, for their Tasty Tuesday. 

On Wednesday, KTBS will be highlighting local Behind the Badge hero Tommy Maddox, a patrol deputy for the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office. 

Wrapping things up on Thursday, they will be having lunch at Under Dawgs Sports Grill.  

The owners of Under Dawgs, Ricky and Claudine Thomas, are looking forward to the extra publicity and getting to showcase everything the restaurant has to offer.  

“To say ‘thank you’ to Rick Rowe would be an understatement for what he did for Claudine and I over a year ago,” said Ricky Thomas. “Mr. Rowe came into Under Dawgs and within an hour told a story to his audience about our business that no one else could have delivered. This man is an asset to his television station and to North Louisiana.”

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Is your church hosting a Vacation Bible School? Webster Parish Journal would like to know about it, so we can inform the public on where they can bring their kids to join in on the fun. 

Please email the time, date and location of your church’s Vacation Bible School to wpjnewsla@gmail.com and we will begin publishing immediately. (See below)

First Baptist Church, Minden

June 5-9, 6 until 8 p.m.Registration link, vbspro.events/p/fbcminden2023

West Lake Baptist Church

June 4-8, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Twists & Turns.

Mt. Paran Baptist Church

June 18-22, 5:30 until 8 p.m., Mt. Paran Baptist Church, “Keepers of the Kingdom: Standing Strong in Today’s Battle for the Truth.” All children ages kindergarten to 6th grade are invited to attend.

Unity Baptist Church

June 26-30, 6 until 8 p.m. Unity Baptist Church, Cotton Valley, 304 Humble Street, will host “Twist and Turns” Following Jesus Changes the Game, Psalm 25:4. Preschool to 6th grade. Registration: 5 p.m. Sunday, June 25.

Eastside Missionary Baptist Church

July 23, Proclamation Safari Park.

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Doyline beats Red River in low-scoring affair

Both teams were strong on the mound Thursday, but Doyline Panthers defeated Red River Bulldogs  3-1. Doyline pitchers allowed just one hit to Red River Bulldogs .

The Panthers grabbed an early lead on a walk in the first inning.

Austin Arbaugh got the win for Doyline. The righty went one inning, allowing one run on one hit, striking out one and walking one.  A number of pitchers entered the game as relief, with Noah Spears, Benton Bates, Cayden Mingo, and Kenneth Lee all securing outs and ultimately the victory.

Tyler Hughes started the game for Red River Bulldogs. The righty allowed one hit and two runs over two innings, striking out six.  Hester threw two innings out of the bullpen.

Mingo and Zach Normand each collected one hit to lead The Panthers.

Hughes led Red River Bulldogs with one hit in three at bats.

Tight contest between Panthers, Bulldogs ends in tie

Doyline tied the game on a groundout in the third inning and tied Red River Bulldogs 3-3 in the second game Thursday.

The Bulldogs fired up the offense in the first inning when Kade Martinez tripled on a 1-1 count, scoring one run.

Cooper Hayes and Dario Galvez each collected one hit to lead the Panthers.  Doyline was sure-handed and didn’t commit a single error. Zach Normand made the most plays with five.

Martinez led Red River Bulldogs with two hits in two at bats.

(“Powered by Narrative Science and GameChanger Media. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved.” Any reuse or republication of this story must include the preceding attribution.)

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I love these simple and sweet homemade bars for so many reasons!  They are so much better than store bought when made in your own kitchen.  Kids love to help make them.  And lastly they are great for road trips, the ball park, or by the pool!  

• 2 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup peanuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, divided
• 1/4 cup M&M’s

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Line an 8” or 9” square baking dish with parchment paper.  Lightly grease with nonstick cooking spray.  Place oats on a rimmed baking sheet and toast for 8 minutes.  Place nuts and oats in large bowl.  

Add honey, butter and brown sugar to a small sauce pan.  Cook over medium heat until the butter melts and sugar dissolves.  Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter, vanilla and salt.  

Pour peanut butter mixture over the oat/nut mixture.  Stir to combine.  Make sure all oats are coated in the peanut butter mixture.  Let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.  Stir in half of the mini chocolate chips.  Spread mixture into prepared baking dish.  Use a rubber spatula to firmly press into the pan.  Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips and M&M’s over the bars and gently press into the top.  

Chill for 2 hours.  Lift the parchment from the pan and cut the bars.  

(Ashley Madden Rowton is a wife, mom and published cookbook author who lives in Minden, La.)

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United Christian Assistance Program has the following needs:

Food: Ramen noodles, cereal, powdered milk, biscuit & cornbread mix

Clothing: Men’s tennis shoes (sizes 9 and up), men’s pants/jeans (waist 32 and 34)

Household goods: Towels, twin sheets, pots & pans

Toiletries: toothpaste, deodorant

Thank you for supporting UCAP!

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

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Send non-profit calendar events to wpjnewsla@gmail.com .

Every Saturday in June

9 a.m. until noon, Minden Farmer’s Market, at The Farm, corner of Highway 80 and Talton Street.

June 5-9

Earth Camp at the Farm.

June 6

3 until 6 p.m. Webster Parish Libraries’ Springhill branch. Summer Reading Program Kickoff Party events with games, food, activities and fun.

June 8

4 until 7 p.m. Webster Parish Libraries’ Minden branch. Summer Reading Program Kickoff Party events with games, food, activities and fun.

June 10

8 a.m. Peddle and Paddle at Caney Lakes, Minden.

June 9 & 10

Grilling on Main, 2023, BBQ Cookout Festival, downtown Minden. Call 318-371-4258 to reserve a sponsorship. Visit https://pulse.ly/tumml5nl27 to register a team.

June 17

9 until 11 a.m. Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry distribution

11 a.m. Fathers and Prayers at Minden water tower.

June 17 & 18

Minden/St. Jude Open

June 19-21

9 until 11 a.m. Minden High School Baseball Camp, ages 6-13.

June 24

8 a.m. Registration for North Webster Martial Arts “Battle for the Shield.” Sanctioned event at Minden Rec Center, 1001 Recreation Drive, Minden. Sponsors and donations needed. Search for North Webster Martial Arts on Facebook.

Every Saturday in July

9 a.m. until noon, Minden Farmer’s Market, at The Farm, corner of Highway 80 and Talton Street.

July 3

5 p.m. Downtown Minden, 5th Annual Duck Derby, Greater Minden Chamber of Commerce. https://greatermindenchamber.com/duckderby/

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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

Tracy D. Moore, 50, of the 200 block of Oscar Moore Rd., Dubberly, was arrested by WPSO for probation violation.

Timothy Lane Sumlin, 42, of the 500 block of N. Main St., Sibley, was arrested by LSP-G for driving while intoxicated.

Brian S. Ezell, 53, of the 100 block of Fuller St., Minden, was arrested by Sibley Police for a probation violation.

June 3

Zamien Mondorell White, 39, of Shady Oak Dr., Springhill, was arrested by Springhill Police for distribution of marijuana.

Courtney Brooks, 36, of the 1500 block of Fuller Rd., Minden, was arrested by MPD on a bench warrant for disturbing the peace/intoxication.

Nicky A. Irby, 70, of the 100 block of Butler Camp Rd., Sibley, was arrested by LSP-G for hit-and-run, careless operation, driving under suspension and expired registration and four active warrants through WPSO.

June 4

Timothy Daniel Marques, 39, of the 13500 block of U.S. 371, Minden, was arrested by WPSO on warrants for improper passing, switched plates and operating a vehicle without a driver’s license.

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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Kenneth Louis McLaughlin

April 30, 1936 – June 2, 2023

Minden, La.

Visitation: 4 until 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 6, 2023, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Funeral service: No details were given concerning service date or time.

Martelle Merritt Dunn

August 1, 1927 – May 20, 2023

Evergreen, La.

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 7, 2023, Evergreen Cemetery.

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.)

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By Paige Nash

Springhill, Shongaloo and Cullen Fire Departments were dispatched to a mobile home fire that claimed the life of a Shongaloo man. The first units arrived at the fire in the 100 block of Stanley Road at 3:40 a.m. Saturday, June 3.

Joseph Stanley Jr., 53, was inside the structure and passed away.

“We had to treat it as a defensive attack due to how much of the total structure was involved,” said Springhill Fire Chief Michael Morse. “After we got a decent portion of the fire knocked down from the outside, me and one other Springhill guys transitioned to an interior attack, so that we could hit the fire better and look for the body.”

Sarepta Fire Department was then called in for extra water and manpower at 4:05 a.m.

According to Morse, they entered the house at 4:16 a.m. and located the body of Stanley at 4:22 a.m.

It is believed the victim set the fire that claimed his life.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

After more than three weeks on the run, the man who allegedly shot and killed (Daniel) Madison Merritt is behind bars.

Minden Police Chief Jared McIver said Cedric Barnard Stephens, 37, walked into the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office around 9 a.m. today (Friday, June 2) and surrendered.

“He (Stephens) ‘lawyered up’ right away, so that concluded the interview right off the bat. We didn’t get to ask him any questions. We don’t know where he’s been hiding or anything like that,” McIver said. “What I want to believe is, his conscience, along with the constant pressure from all law enforcement had him turn himself in.”

Stephens is suspected of shooting Merritt and hiding his body in the woods near Auction Barn Road, Minden in May. Stephens has been transported to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. He is charged with second degree murder.

Shan Walker Merritt, Madison Merritt’s mother said the family is relieved Stephens has been arrested and also hopes his conscience played a part.

“By him surrendering I am hoping that he actually has a conscience and feels guilty about what he did and will give us some answers to our questions,” she said. “We have so many questions that only he can answer.”

Merritt said the family was unable to have a “normal funeral” nor could she see her son for the last time, which was difficult for her.

“There is really never any closure when it’s like that,” she said. “I am hoping this does help my daughters and his dad with the healing and closure process. For me, there may never be any closure because I didn’t get to see my son and say good bye.”

Merritt said the family feels the police “did a good job.”

“It took a minute for them to get things lined out but I was promised from the get-go that they wouldn’t stop looking for him until they found him,” she said of Stephens.

McIver specifically thanked Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Marshals, Ward 1 City Marshals, Bossier City Police and Louisiana State Police for their help over the past weeks, as a multitude of leads were followed and search warrants served in an effort to locate Stephens.

“All the agencies went above and beyond,” McIver said. “I can’t begin to tell you how hard our detectives worked, how much sleep they lost.

“I know it was frustrating for the family,” he continued. “I have tried to stay in contact with them and reassure them we were on the case.”

The chief said he wishes they had located Stephens the day Merritt’s body was found.

“People have been afraid to go out, knowing he was loose, and not knowing for sure where he was,” said the chief. “But justice has been served now. We hope the family will have some peace.”

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 officers, having just worked the “Click It or Ticket” program for the day were on normal patrol in the area of Bailey Street Tuesday evening when they made a major drug arrest.

Charles Wayne Woods Jr., 28, of the 300 block of Terrel Rd., Minden, was arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, 4 counts of possession of marijuana, possession of firearms with a controlled dangerous substance, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a stolen firearm, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of open container, improper parking and driving while intoxicated.

Chief Jared McIver said officers Kendale Booker and Ben Sparks observed Woods’ 2004 GMC improperly parked.

“Officers made contact with the driver – Woods – and his passenger,” McIver said. “During the course of their investigation, Off. Booker noticed the odor of marijuana emitting from the passenger compartment of the vehicle.”

Due to the behavior of both occupants, officers, along with Lt. Brandon Curry, advised the men of their rights and placed them in handcuffs.

Officers recovered 477 grams of marijuana, more than a dozen THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) Tubes (Vape Pens), THC Wax, THC edibles, Ziploc bags and scales. Street value reportedly between $3-4,000.

They located two firearms, one of which allegedly was stolen and an open bottle of beer.

“Woods told officers the marijuana belonged to him, so the passenger was not taken into custody,” McIver said. “But Woods was showing signs of impairment and, following Standardized Field Sobriety Test and Drug Recognition Evaluator test was deemed to be under the influence of Cannabis.”

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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Title Sponsor b1 Bank, along with an impressive list of sponsors and Minden Foundation Board will host Minden Charity Classic for the 20th time this weekend.

The goal of this nonprofit organization is to maintain a fund providing charitable assistance within the Minden area primarily for those needs not specifically met by other charities or organizations.  Some examples would be assisting a family that has suffered a house fire, a flood or a family stricken with a devastating illness that creates a financial hardship.

“Over our 20-year history, we have given more than $790,000 to more than 490 families in times of need,” said Board Member Andy Pendergrass. “Monies are distributed by application only, and we do not advertise but rather seek input from ministers, principals and social workers regarding families in need.”

Minden Foundation Board consists of Andy Pendergrass, Candi Haynes, Jason Ogwyn, Zach Goodman, Kristin Utphall, Braley Raborn, Lindsey Cupples, Jeff Lee, Carlie Day, Garrett Vaughan, and Brittany Greer.

The Charity Classic golf tournament, along with an auction, and more recently a skeet shoot are the main sources of fund-raising for this foundation.

The foundation has Section 501(c)(3), tax-exempt status, with the Internal Revenue Service.

Tournament Schedule for the weekend:

Friday, June 2

5:30 p.m. Cocktail Hour and Games

6:30 p.m. Dinner

7:30 p.m. Auction and Raffle

Saturday, June 3

7:30 a.m. Morning Flights Shotgun Start

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Titleist Mobile Pro Shop

1 p.m. Afternoon Flights Shotgun Start

6:30 p.m. Ball Drop

6:45 p.m. Calcutta

Sunday, June 4

7:30 a.m. Morning Flights Shotgun Start

1 p.m. Afternoon Flights Shotgun Start

Thursday (Following)

Scores audited & checks mailed out

Flight Payouts

1ST PLACE – $1,500

2ND PLACE – $1,000

3RD PLACE – $750

4TH PLACE – $500

 ** TWO PERSON TEAMS

** ENTRY FEE/SPONSORSHIP- $1,100 (INCLUDES ALL FOOD AND DRINKS)
** PRE-FLIGHTED
** ALL FLIGHTS SCRAMBLE BOTH DAYS
** FLIGHTS C,P,1 START @ 1PM BOTH DAYS. FLIGHTS 2,3,4 START @ 7:30AM BOTH DAYS

** THIS IS A PRIVATE FUNDRAISING EVENT. SPECTATORS ARE WELCOME. IF SPECTATORS WANT TO EAT AND DRINK, THEY WILL BE REQUIRED TO PAY $100/PERSON PER DAY.

Allocated Bourbon Raffle

Each $10 ticket will be in the hopper for all bottles.

If you win a bottle, your ticket goes back in the hopper and can win again.

Drawing on June 3

Blantons all three sizes together: 750ml, 375ml, mini bottle

EH Taylor Small Batch

Weller Special Reserve

Eagle Rare 10 Year

Smoke Wagon Uncut Unflitered

Henry McKenna 10 Year

Jack Daniels 10 Year

Willett 8 yr Bourbon

Russell’s 13 Year

Stagg Jr.

In case of controversy, complete play on the hold with the original ball and play a provisional ball for the spot of controversy. Submit both scores to the tournament committee, and it will render the final decision in all matters.

The board stresses everyone please remember the real winners are the many people who will benefit from this tournament.

For format, tee times and rules, please visit www.mindenfoundation.org.

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Ridicule is man’s most potent weapon. That’s number five in Saul Alinsky’s “Rules for Radicals,” a list of power tactics designed as guidelines for faithful spongebrains who want to be modernistas in the drive toward a changed world.

Alinsky notes, “It is almost impossible to counterattack ridicule.” And, he’s right. To push back against ridicule is much akin to arguing with an idiot. That individual doesn’t care to be correct.  Preferred pronouns want only to be loud enough to suppress different opinions or quick enough on the keyboard to overwrite anyone stupid enough to engage in online debate.

Alinsky’s rules are quite effective. Without hanging out the “here they are” banner, one can see them in practice almost daily from a wide range of individuals, groups and organizations. Many are framed, organizationally, within acronyms espousing such ideals as liberty, equality, fraternity, diversity, unity, peace…any positive term one would not consider dangerous. 

Under these banners, today’s community activists and organizers and their vassals push semi-popular agendas or stampede privileged issues over us, supported by a friendly media and willing bureaucracy. We have to wonder how all these many singular focus groups got so much power and attention, and how it seems to have happened practically overnight.

Well, it didn’t happen suddenly. It’s been in the works for nearly a century, with a serious push coming in the past six decades. In the 1920s, communists and anarchists had small voices demanding to be a part of the national conversation. The best way to get that voice, leadership said, was through media and education. The trip began in earnest, and those voices got louder.

Fast forward to the 1960s. Groups, like Weather Underground, Students for a Democratic Society and the Black Panthers openly espoused hatred for our country and promoted violence as the means to bring about their idea of a perfect America. When bombings of government buildings, police precincts and corporate headquarters failed to put society into the dumpster, battle plans changed.

Those radicals changed from bellbottoms and tie-dyes to suits and ties, infiltrating this country’s K-12 schools, colleges and universities, newspapers, TV networks and corporate board rooms.

Weather Underground founders Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn, self-professed bombers and revolutionaries, became educators and lawyers, roaming the halls and holding classes at the University of Illinois and Northwestern University. Most impressive, however, was their mentor-like relationship with “community organizer” Barack Obama.

Another underground weatherman, Howard Machtinger, became a Professor M. at North Carolina Central University and Teaching Fellows Director at University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill’s School of Education. 

Mark Rudd, a Weather leader who fled indictment and went “underground,” turned himself in and was sentenced to two years’ probation. He later taught at Central New Mexico Community College. Former Weather Underground member Eleanor Raskin, who fled after being indicted for bomb making in the 1970s, is an associate professor at Albany Law School.

Black Panther Warren Kimbro and was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of another panther member, but only served four years. He later became an assistant dean at Eastern Connecticut State University.

These few examples show where many of the ideas we hear from our young people may have originated. Those who, in the ’60s and ’70s, sent messages through action that America is racist and always will be, that police and the law are here only to protect the privileged and is, therefore, the enemy, are teaching a generation of young people. 

In too many school systems and higher educational institutions, our younger generations are being taught that democracy is a con; capitalism is a tool of supremacy, and that white heterosexual Christian males are as much a threat to civilization as climate change. The only way to reach the ultimate goal of Utopia is through green energy, greenless money and greater governmental intrusion into our lives.

Friends and neighbors, we’re looking down a barrel that’s been pointed at us for way yonder too long. It first was pointed quietly beyond our view. Now, it’s out there for all to see. We think it’s time for the Alinsky rule to be used to our advantage. Ridicule is a noun, just like freedom. It shoots both ways. 

But from our little corner of the porch, things don’t look so bad regardless of how hard we see our hired hands trying to legislate common sense completely out of existence. Like my ol’ grandad said, even a heel hound gets tired of being hounded to heel. 

We, the great unwashed, have a collective voice equally as loud as those we hear trying to shout us into irrelevancy. But, friends, while we may be considered only a troublesome barking dog, the hands that try to push us down ought not forget some dogs bite. Even those who are considered the lesser of the animals.

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Special thanks to Mark and Sara Chreene, KASO/KBEF

The Webster Parish School Board held a special-called meeting on Monday. The highlight of the meeting was the recognition of the Webster Parish 2022-2023 Students of the Year, Support Persons of the Year, and Teachers of the Year.

5th grade Students of the Year:

Richardson Elementary – Grey Meeker

Central Elementary – Brayleigh Lewis

Doyline Elementary – Brady Mixon

Brown Upper Elementary School – Jordan Thomas

North Webster Upper Elementary AND Webster Parish Elementary Student of the Year –   Mason Neal

8th grade Students of the Year:

Webster Junior High School – Reese Miller

North Webster Junior High School – Mikyah White

Doyline High School – Lanie Gates

Lakeside Junior High School AND Webster Parish Junior High School Student of the Year – Madison Franklin

12th grade Students of the Year:

Doyline High School – Melanie Anderson

Lakeside High School – Brittany Odom

North Webster High School – Lily Everett

Minden High School AND Webster Parish High School Student of the Year – Jonathan Nguyen (pronounced WIN)

Support Person of the Year:

Brown Upper Elementary – Laraven Coleman, Secretary

Browning Elementary – Jennifer Scott, Paraprofessional

Richardson Elementary – Haley Stewart, Paraprofessional

Lakeside Junior/Senior High School – Brenda Willis, Paraprofessional

North Webster Junior High School – Pam McGill, Custodian

Doyline High School – Kelsey Moris, Paraprofessional

Minden High School – Tokia Whiting, School Resource Officer

North Webster Upper Elementary – Kimberly Winkler, Paraprofessional

Jones Elementary – Jessica Gavin, Paraprofessional

Phillips Elementary – Tammy Guice, Secretary

North Webster Lower Elementary – Jennifer Hanson, Paraprofessional

Central Elementary AND Webster Parish Elementary Support Person of the Year – Paulesta Gilbert, Paraprofessional

Webster Junior High School AND Webster Parish Junior High Support Person of the Year – Shaun Houston, Behavior Interventionist

North Webster High School AND Webster Parish High School Support Person of the Year – Stacey Martin, Secretary

Teachers of the Year

Elementary:

Brown Upper Elementary – Martha Edens

Browning Elementary – Tanya Pesses-Cole

Richardson Elementary – Amy Lee

Doyline Elementary – Megan Pearce

North Webster Upper Elementary – Raven Berry

Jones Elementary – Jamie Lewis

Phillips Elementary – Tori McKinney

North Webster Lower Elementary – Jessica Newsom

Central Elementary AND Webster Parish Elementary Teacher of the Year – Brittany Lewis

 Junior High School:

Lakeside Junior High School – Aubrey Lee

Webster Junior High School – Christina Chester

Doyline Junior High School – Nancy Griffith

North Webster Junior High School AND Webster Parish Junior High School Teacher of the Year – Tina Hughes

 High School:

Doyline High School – Megan James

Minden High School – Rebecca Carraway

North Webster High School – Terri Orr

Lakeside High School AND Webster Parish High School Teacher of the Year – Will Gray

After the completion of the recognition of employees, the members of the board voted to approve:

• Budget revisions to the following: General Funds, Parish Wide Maintenance Funds, 96 Sales Tax Funds, Education Excellence Funds, Education Excellence Funds, Special Federal Funds, IDEA Funds, Achieve Funds, ESSER Incentive/ARP Funds, ESSER III-EB Interventions Funds, ESSER III Formula Funds, Title 1 Funds, Other Federal ESEA Funds (Title 2, Title 4, and Title 5), School Food Service Funds.
• Purchase a lawn mower for Webster Junior High School from Hol-Mont Sales and Rentals in the amount of $15,714.00 with funding to come from District 6 half cent sales tax fund.
• Purchase 11 Bogan classroom phones for $3,475.12, and 1 NQuist administrative paging system IP phone for $1,137.31, for a total of $5,512.43, from a DiversiFire, Inc. Funding source is the District 6 half-cent sales tax fund.

The next meeting of the Webster Parish School Board is scheduled for Monday, June 12.

Please visit www.kbef.com for photos.

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By Josh Beavers

Richardson Elementary closed the school year with a once in a lifetime trip to NASA in Houston. 

The 5th graders took the trip for the Stars and Stem evening experience and tram tour.  The purpose of this trip was to expose students to real-life applications for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and to have a fun time. 

“This is an educational experience, not just a field trip,” Richardson Principal Michelle Finley said.  “Our students will never forget this trip.  Some of our students may never get the opportunity to have these types of experiences any other way.”

Finley said that even a trip to the Rainforest Cafe for lunch is something that enhances the experience for students.  

“Time with their friends before moving on to junior high next year is an added bonus,” she said. “They are exposed to a variety of career fields that they may want to pursue one day.”

Finley said students were selected for the trip by teacher recommendations, grades, classroom behavior, and attendance. Students sold candy bars during the year to help offset their out of pocket cost to attend.  

The students have been looking forward to this field trip all year. 

According to student Brook Corcoran, “there were a lot a fun activities that showed us and explained to us how things at NASA work.”

Student Julia McKeithen said, “I enjoyed the marshmanaut activity the most.’

Student Heavenly Frazier said, “the egg launch was my favorite because my groups egg survived.”

Student Brooklyn Grappe said, “building the rocket ship and launching it to see how high it would go was fun!”

Finley said this has been a 5th grade ESR field trip for many years, beginning when Mrs. Oreata Banks became  principal. 

“When I was named principal, we continued the annual end of year trip to NASA until 2019,” she said. “Our trip had to be canceled in 2020.  We have not been able to go in the last three years due to COVID shutdowns and field trip limitations.”

She said they were so excited to get school board approval early this year to bring back our NASA field trip.  

“Mrs. Robin Herman, 5th grade science and social studies teacher, did an outstanding job coordinating the entire trip,” Finley said.   “ It is a huge undertaking, and involves a full year of prep and planning.  I want to thank the parents and guardians that have entrusted us to take their student(s) out of state for an overnight experience.  As a parent I know how hard that can be because we worry. We had many  parents that chose to attend with us as well.  They follow our charter buses and take care of their own expenses, but do get to join us for all NASA activities on the 2-day experience.  We look forward to taking many more students in the future.” 

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Last Friday evening, the girls and I went to my nephew’s birthday party. There were cupcakes, hotdogs, toys galore and a huge bounce house/slide.  

Of course, as soon as I opened the doors of the car, Ashton (the soon to be five-year-old) ran straight to the bounce house, kicked off her shoes and disappeared inside. Kameron (the just turned two-year-old) was a little more hesitant. She pulled me with her cute little dimpled hand close by and made her observations.  

After examining the steady stream of older kids tumbling up and down, in and out of the bounce house, she decided to take her turn, but I had to go with her. So, we took our shoes off and made our way in line.  

Now this was a workout for me alone, but even more so when you’re pushing and pulling a two-year-old along. We did this about five times before I finally had to tell her it was time for a break. So, we walked over to join the adults and get a quick snack. She was fine with this for about 10 minutes before she was ready for round two. I had not seen Ashton since we got there.  

I begrudgingly walked back toward the bounce house AKA the madhouse, not really having any desire to go back in. I stopped close by and was talking to my cousin when I looked over and saw Ashton helping Kameron inside. Two seconds later Kameron was on top of the slide and down she went all by herself. I internally and externally freaked out just waiting for her to start screaming, flip off the side or get pummeled by a pre-teen. She just hopped down, and I made my way over to her. I grabbed her hand and told her, “I don’t like that.” She looked up and said, “It’s alright Momma.”  Then, off she went again. 

I am not exaggerating when I say that I almost broke down into tears like a blubbering fool but held it together.  

I stayed close by because I am what you may call a helicopter mom, but for the most part, let her do her thing. I was obviously having a harder time just watching her than I was actually getting in and out of that bounce house.  

It was a bittersweet feeling. A new stage achieved along my motherhood journey.  

I was able to enjoy some time relaxing and visiting with some friends and family and Kameron was able to entertain herself for a little while. I was proud that she gained a newfound independence, but a little sad at the same time. It was one of many instances when I realized she was getting older and no longer my little baby.  

I have gone through this same exact experience with my older two. They are spaced out pretty good with them being 9, 5 and 2. Between every one of them there was that same bittersweet feeling of being proud that they were growing up and finding their own way, but sad at the same time because each day that goes by it seems like they need you a little less. If you are a parent, you get this. 

This exact bittersweetness was always a big topic of discussion between each kid when deciding if we wanted to have another one. “Do we want to have another one and start all over again? She is so independent and does things on her own. Do we want to have another one that relies on us for every waking moment all over again?” Obviously, the answer was “YES.” But knowing that this is for sure our last one makes it even more bittersweet.  

Knowing from here on out, they are all going to continue to need me a little less. Sure, there will be times when they need me as they are growing up and experiencing difficulties that will surely come, but overall, they will just grow more independent.  

I am proud and honored to have played a role in allowing them to grow into themselves. As a parent there is nothing more special than seeing your own child be self-motivated, confident and happy. But I will always be a helicopter mom through and through and will definitely remind them way more than they will probably appreciate that Momma is always here and will be anytime and every time they ever need me.  

(Paige Nash is a wife, helicopter mom, publisher of Bienville Parish Journal and Claiborne Parish Journal and a digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal.)

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Webster Parish Sheriff’s Criminal Investigative Division has arrested a local man for breaking into a business and stealing items for his drug habit.

Michael Joe Reeves, 50, of the 300 block of Penal Farm Rd., Minden, is charged with 2 counts of simple criminal damage and simple burglary and an outstanding warrant for illegal possession of stolen things.

Sheriff Jason Parker said a local business on La. Hwy. 531 reported a break-in on April 16.

“The suspect entered the building by breaking the front door glass with a large stone causing almost $400 in damages,” said Parker. “Upon entry, the suspect took a power washer and three leaf blowers valued at more than $1,450.”

On April 29, a Sibley Road business reported a break-in where the suspect entered the same way, causing $800 worth of damage.

“The suspect took a garden tiller valued at more than $275,” said the sheriff. “On May 30, detectives Phillip Krouse and Tommy Kemp interviewed Reeves in reference to both break-ins. He admitted to breaking into both locations, stating he has a ‘very bad crack cocaine addiction’ and was stealing the items to support his habit.”

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 Marilyn Miller

Minden’s Savannah Court hosted a “Meet and Greet” on Tuesday, May 30 beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Representatives of the area’s business, law enforcement, and governmental entities visited the assisted living facility to meet residents and their families and to hear the sounds of the world-famous Cox Family singers.

Three generations of Cox family members have contributed to the musical group over the past four decades. Each one is blessed with vocal talent, as well as trained on a multiple number of musical instruments. Sidney Cox and three of the youngest Cox daughters were present to entertain on Tuesday.

The Cox Family, who started singing as a group in 1976 in their hometown of Cotton Valley, Louisiana, is best recognized for performing both country and bluegrass music. They are best known locally for their participation in the popular movie and soundtrack, “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” and for their collaborations with singer and musician Alison Krauss, with whom they share a Grammy award. They were nominated for another Grammy for their album, “Beyond the City.”

Visitors and musicians enjoyed refreshments following the mini-concert. The event was coordinated by Savannah Court director Nancy Hines and activities coordinator Sue Ranger.

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