Ark-La-Tex families with critically ill children being treated at local hospitals will soon find sanctuary at a new Ronald McDonald House thanks in part to an American Electric Power Foundation (AEP Foundation) grant award.

Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) announced the AEP Foundation award of $250,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana (RMHCAR-NLA). This grant aims to support the construction of the Ronald McDonald House in Shreveport, La., giving those who require a “home away from home” the resources they need to focus on their families.

Together, the AEP Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana aim to transform the lives of tens of thousands of families, offering solace, support, and strength during difficult times.

“Families come to Ronald McDonald House on the worst days of their lives,” said Janell Mason, CEO of RMHCAR-NLA. By constructing the Ronald McDonald House Shreveport-Bossier, we aim to alleviate the financial and emotional stress of families and allow them to solely focus on their seriously ill child.”

The home will be built at 9100 Susan Drive in Shreveport, and construction is slated to start in mid-March. Notably, one of the community rooms within the House will be named the AEP Foundation Family Great Room, symbolizing the organization’s profound impact on the community. This facility will act as a sanctuary for families facing the challenges of critical medical care for their child.

Every Ronald McDonald House provides a free, safe haven for families of critically ill, hospitalized children, with all the comforts of home and the hospitality of compassionate staff and volunteers. Families also find support from one another, creating a community that uniquely understands the impact of a child’s life-changing medical crisis.

“Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana is supporting our most vulnerable community members by offering a “home away from home” so their family is always near as they work toward a healthier future,” said Brett Mattison, SWEPCO president and chief operating officer. “It is our privilege and honor to announce this grant that will contribute toward creating a nurturing environment where families can find comfort and support during challenging times.”

In addition to the grant, SWEPCO’s Energy Efficiency team consulted with the architect to incorporate energy-efficient design elements in the House. This will maximize the home’s sustainability and help reduce its environmental footprint.

“Since its inception in 1981, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana has been a cornerstone of support for families in need,” said Michael Corbin, SWEPCO External Affairs Manager.

Corbin’s dedication to the project extends beyond his role at SWEPCO as he has dedicated his personal time to assist as a member of the Ronald McDonald House capital campaign committee.

“Shreveport has an urgent need for this type of care and it is an honor to be a part of something that can be life changing to so many families,” Corbin added.

With a fundraising goal of $10 million, the House will feature 20 private suites, ensuring families have a free, comfortable space close to their child. In addition, local families with a child in the hospital, who are not staying in the House, will have access to the common spaces in the House for “Day Use”, providing a refuge from a hospital’s demanding environment. These spaces will include lounges, a fully stocked pantry and kitchen, a large dining room, indoor and outdoor play areas, and laundry and shower facilities.
“The impact of this project reaches far beyond the brick and mortar, bringing together a community of caring individuals who understand the importance of providing a “home away from home” for those in need,” said Mattison.

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By Pat Culverhouse

A Cotton Valley man is being held on a charge of possession of stolen things after a Webster Parish deputy’s traffic stop revealed a stolen vehicle.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said Deondray Lafayette Bragg, 40, was traveling north on U.S. 371 just before 2 p.m. Thursday when WPSO Sgt. Aaron Barnes noticed loading straps hanging outside the rear door of a U Haul van. A quick license plate check by Sgt. Barnes showed the vehicle had been reported stolen, the Sheriff said.

“The suspect told Sgt. Barnes that he had rented the U Haul in California in November of last year,” Parker said. “Bragg stated that he knew he should have returned the vehicle but had fallen on hard times and had been living in it.”

Bragg was taken into custody and is currently being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. Parker said a hold has been placed on the van.

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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Typical Louisiana weather this week. Cold at night; warm during the day.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 69. West wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday Night

Clear, with a low around 40. West wind around 5 mph becoming north after midnight.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 62. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 38.

Thursday

Partly sunny, with a high near 63.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 44.

• Information courtesy of National Weather Service.

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United Christian Assistance Program needs the following items.

Food:  canned meats, corn, fruit, cereal, powdered milk, Ramen noodles, biscuit mix, cornbread mix (we are low on most foods)

Clothing: Men’s shoes and pants (32-34 waist)

Household goods: pots, pans, skillets, king and queen sheets, towels

Toiletries: soap, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo

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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A ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday officially welcomed The Back Porch restaurant inside Exacta Inn 1404 Sibley Road, Minden.

Owners Mike and Denise Sewell have a full breakfast menu, sandwiches, Po’ Boys and a lunch menu with daily specials. Call 318-639-5014 for more information.

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 In July of 2023, Investigators assigned to the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division were contacted by an online gambling company regarding sports wagers made by a prohibited person. Investigators learned that former Louisiana State University (LSU) football player, 21-year-old Kayshon Boutte of Baton Rouge, participated in sports gambling from April 6, 2022, until May 7, 2023, when he was 20 years old. During this period, Boutte used an alias to circumvent the legal age required for placing sports wagers in Louisiana. Between April 6, 2022, and May 7, 2023, the alias account believed to be used by Boutte placed over 8,900 wagers. Of the 8,900 wagers, at least seventeen were on National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) football games, with at least six of those wagers on LSU football.

On January 18, 2024, an arrest warrant was signed through the 19th Judicial District Court, charging Boutte with L.R.S. 14:73.5 – Computer Fraud (Felony – One Count) and L.R.S. 27:260 – Gaming Prohibited for Persons Under 21 (Misdemeanor – One Count). On January 25, 2024, Boutte was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish jail on the aforementioned charges. This investigation is still ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.

The Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division, in conjunction with the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, will continue to work to ensure the integrity of gaming activities in Louisiana. Anyone wishing to report illegal gaming activity is encouraged to contact the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division. Contact information may be found online at https://www.lsp.org/gaming-enforcement-division/.

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

Current

Registration open for Upwards Soccer, hosted by North Acres Baptist Church. Discounts available for multiple children. Scholarships also available. K5-5th grade boys and girls. Games will be Saturday mornings at North Acres Baptist Church, beginning March 16 through April 27. Contact church office at 377-4315 for more information. https://regisgtration.upward.org UPW85195 .

Jan. 31

11:50 p.m. nominations due for Woman of the Year. https://form.jotform.com/ywscofminden/2024WomanoftheYear 

11:59 p.m., nominations due for Man of the Year. https://docs.google.com/…/1ebb7DFsd-TIb…/edit…

11:59 p.m. deadline for business awards’ nominates at https://greatermindenchamber.com/awardsgala/ 

Feb. 2

7 p.m. Glenbrook School presents Beauty and the Beast at First Assembly of God, 407 Fort St., Minden. Tickets available at the door for $10. Purchase a light-up rose for $5. Proceeds go to Drama Department.

Feb. 7

1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Glenbrook School presents Beauty and the Beast at First Assembly of God, 407 Fort St., Minden. Tickets available at the door for $10. Purchase a light-up rose for $5. Proceeds go to Drama Department.

Feb. 8-11

Minden St. Jude Auction.

Feb. 10

1 p.m. North Webster 13th Annual Black History Parade. Line up starts on Church Street. Deadline to sign up is Feb. 5. Grand Marshal: Edward Bankhead.

Feb. 27

6:30 p.m. Doors open for the 82nd Annual Greater Minden Chamber Awards Gala at Minden Civic Center. Program begins at 7 p.m.

March 2

Caney Puzzler Adventure Race, Caney Lakes

March 3

6:30 p.m. True Girl Crazy Hair Tour at First Baptist Minden for mothers and daughters ages 7-12. This live event will be full of games, worship, fashion show, solid biblical truth and will deepen the relationship between mothers and their daughters. Visit www.mytruegirl.com for tickets. For more information, call the church office at 318-377-4434.

March 16

9 a.m. until noon, District 2 Star of Hope O.E.S. 30th Annual Gala, “Star Struck” Welcome to Old Hollywood. 630 Factory Outlet Dr., Arcadia, La. Attire: Sunday’s best with “fascinators and fedoras. Entertainment, food, drawings. Public is welcome. $5 donation at the door.

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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.

Jan. 22

Torry Capers, 31, of the 300 block of Weston St., Minden, was arrested by MPD on an active bench warrant.

Jan. 23

Lee Michael Butler, 37, of Haughton, La. Was arrested by on a probation warrant.

William E. Johnson, 60, of the 100 block of Rayner Rd., Minden, was arrested by MPD for violation of protective orders.

Jan. 24

Ashley F. Banks, 37, of the 100 block of Burton Loop, Heflin, was arrested by MPDon a warrant for rented or leased motor vehicles. Bond was set at $5,000.

Jan. 26

Mark Robideau, 49, of 606 2nd St. NW, Springhill, was arrested by Springhill police on a warrant for failure to register as a sex offender.

William D. McClendon, 37, of the 100 block of Hall St., Minden, was arrested by WPSO on two active warrants.

Steven M. Miller, 54, of Bossier City, was arrested by WPSO for violation of a protective order.

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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Robert B. Moore

Dec. 23, 1948 – Jan. 26, 2024

Minden, La.

Cremains to be buried in Union Parish.

Memorial service: to be held at a later date.

Kerry Alan Finlay

Sept. 8, 1957 – Jan.19, 2024

New Orleans/Cotton Valley, La.

Visitation: Noon until 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Memorial service: 1 p.m. Sunday, immediately following visitation.

Burial: Old Sarepta Cemetery.

Mary Rockett Tomlin Williamson

Oct. 24, 1936 – Dec. 27, 2023

Minden, La.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, First Baptist Church of Minden.

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, Springhill Cemetery, 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 no charge.)

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A Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy has received a Certificate of Appreciation from a federal drug enforcement agency for his part in investigations and arrests targeting a major trafficking organization operating in the Shreveport Caddo/Bossier area.

Deputy Shawn Jenkins was acknowledged for his “…exemplary performance of Task Force Officer (TFO)…” by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) New Orleans Division and the Shreveport Residence Office (SRO), according to a letter of recognition by Brad Byerley, Special Agent in Charge.

According to Byerley’s letter outlining the honor, “As you may be aware, the DEA SRO has been involved in the investigation of a significant drug trafficking organization operating in Shreveport Caddo/Bossier metropolitan area. This investigation has been identified as a DEA priority target investigation and was approved as an OCDETF investigation. The investigation targets a methamphetamine distribution organization responsible for significant quantities of methamphetamine in North and Central Louisiana. During the course of the investigation TFO Jenkins was instrumental in the coordination of surveillance and enforcement operations. As a result of the Title III investigation, investigators have recovered over twelve pounds of methamphetamine, over 20 indictments, seized several firearms and a signifiant amount of U.S. currency.

“TFO Jenkins is highly respected by all state and local agencies as well as the United States Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Louisiana. TFO Jenkins is frequently relied on to provide the SRO with valuable information and insight fully exploit narcotic investigations. His knowledge and insight is truly a valuable asset to the DEA SRO and is an extremely effective tool when attacking drug trafficking organizations.

“TFO Jenkins has displayed a positive and professional image of law enforcement and the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office (WPSO) and his efforts should be recognized. TFO Jenkins professionalism and his spirit of cooperation are a credit to you and WPSO. I am proud to issue TFO Jenkins a DEA Certificate of Appreciation to acknowledge his performance.”

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker has served on the narcotics task force and knows the importance of getting to the source of trafficking organizations.

“Sgt. Jenkins is continuing a tradition of investigative cooperation between local, state and federal agencies to combat these drug traffickers,” Parker said. “Our goal is to get illegal narcotics off the street and cutting them off at the source is the best way we can do it.”

Parker said task force investigators work tirelessly to gather information and, eventually, make arrests.

“There are a lot of long, hard hours of investigation behind every arrest,” he said. “It’s also a dangerous operation because there’s lots of money involved and these traffickers are criminals who are determined to get their illegal products to their distributors.”

There’s another benefit for the agents who can make arrests and seize items related to the illegal operations.

“Asset forfeiture is something that benefits law enforcement,” Parker said. “When we confiscate items like vehicles, weapons…anything that is part of the criminal enterprise, it translates to funds to help us continue our fight against traffickers.”

Parker said the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office will continue to be a part of the team that is working to break up trafficking organizations.

“We will cooperate with other agencies and get the job done,” he said. “Investigators like Sgt. Jenkins are part of our contribution to this effort.”

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By Marilyn Miller

Once a year, the world comes to Minden, Louisiana; sometimes bringing money, sometimes really nice gifts, but always bringing love.

Don Brand is one of those people who has reached out to this small city of 11,000 during the annual Minden St. Jude Auction, a four-day festival that offers everything from drawings for a late model SUV…to a custom-built playhouse…to exquisite handmade jewelry…all the way to the annual Chili Cook-Off,  pork chop dinners, live music, and dancing. Scattered among the days are interviews with patients, past and present, of St. Jude.

“The time I’ve spent with the St. Jude family has been among the happiest times of my life,” said the Lebanon, MO resident during a recent phone interview.

How did it start? Don has been a St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital supporter for over 60 years, making a monthly contribution to them through State payroll. 

Don was watching a St. Jude fundraiser for the Springfield, MO area one day and the sponsors were lamenting the fact that time had virtually run out and they were still $2,000 from their goal. “I thought about it, and I decided, yeah, I can do that,” Brand recalled. And his life was forever changed.

About two weeks after he made the donation, his phone rang, and it was Glen Khazee with the fundraising arm of St. Jude. “He said, ‘If you really want to help out St. Jude, there’s a town in Louisiana called Minden…’” And Don Brand has been “helping out” with the Minden St. Jude Auction since that day. 

Don was introduced to the co-chairmen of the auction, Laura Hollingsworth and Melissa Brown, and that first year, he donated “a really expensive Gibson guitar and a nice shotgun” to be auctioned off. “I can’t remember what I donated the second year, but the third year Laura and Melissa suggested that I try jewelry,” he stated. “I agreed to try it, knowing that I’d want something well-done and flashy…and I happen to have a friend who owns a jewelry store right here in Lebanon.” He picked out a piece with eight big emeralds surrounded by diamonds. It cost him $8,000. And it brought in $75,000.

He picked out sapphires the next year. “I had to go to the bank that year,” he admitted. But the ring, necklace and earrings brought in $100,000. The third year, Don hit it out of the park, deciding on a necklace and having it created by an Asian jeweler who used rubies and diamonds. It brought in $120,000. The jewelry donations went on for five or six more years…

Picking out jewelry seems a little tame for a man and who flew as a medical evacuation pilot during the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. He just missed Operation Iraqi Freedom because he was flying another military gig. Don joined the Marines in 1967, won his wings in 1969, and went to Vietnam in ’70. In the Fall of 1970, he was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps medal for Heroism. In 1972, he transferred to the Reserves. He retired in March of 2004.

“I spent two wonderful years flying people around north Alaska. Then I finished my 50-year aviation career in the Gulf of Mexico. I flew my Cajun buddies around the Gulf for 15 years. I MISS IT EVERY DAY OF MY LIFE!”

And just when you think the “80ish” flyer is going to let one of his “five retirements” take hold, he accepts a job as a semi-truck driver. But that only lasted for six months. Right now, Don is a part-time high school teacher. “But every penny goes toward the St. Jude gift,” he acknowledged. “It was interesting because all the students thought I was poor…you know because I was ‘old’ and still teaching. But when I explained to them that all the money from teaching was going to St. Jude, they understood.”

“I hate to quit teaching high school. Whenever the kids see me, they call out, ‘Hey Mr. Brand, we love you!’”

Don does not spend all his time working. Living so close to the many rivers and lakes in Missouri makes that impossible, because he is a huge sports fisherman. “I’ve lived all over the world, but every day I thank the good Lord for being here (in Lebanon, MO). It’s my favorite place.”

Being a fisherman means he puts a lot of fish on the table at home. So, when he comes to Minden during the annual auction, why would he spend every noon and evening meal at The Crawfish Hole in Dixie Inn? Well, he can ignore the fried fish. “But they make the best fried oysters,” he crooned.

The year Don stopped donating jewelry to the Minden St. Jude Auction, he gave them a motorcycle. And last year, he donated a travel trailer. What’s in store for 2024? The answer to that is drawing near. 

Minden can only hope that McDonald Brand never retires from the Minden St. Jude Auction. “I’ve had the most wonderful life,” he said. And St. Jude and Minden have been a large part of that.

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Rain today, then partly sunny in the afternoon.

Thursday

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 9 a.m., then a chance of showers between 9 a.m. and noon. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. High near 66. West wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 47. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Friday

Partly sunny, with a high near 66. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday Night

Showers likely before midnight, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between midnight and 3am, then showers likely after 3am. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 52. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Saturday

Partly sunny, with a high near 61.

Saturday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 54.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 33.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 59.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 35.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 63.

* Information courtesy of National Weather Service

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By Shawn C. White

The LHSAA soccer season comes to an end next Monday for the Minden boys and girls soccer teams as playoff matchups will be announced on Tuesday, January 30.  

The boys are scraping together a chance at the playoffs and according to the latest boys power rankings on GeauxPreps.com the Crimson Tide are sitting in the last rung of the 32-team field in Division II.  The boys need wins in their last two matches to secure that spot.   Thursday evening they are scheduled to face the winless North Caddo Titans at the Pit.  The win will not give them any opponents’ wins to help push their ranking but the win will give them much-needed power points for a win.  Minden will close out the season with a district matchup in Shreveport against Huntington (2-5-0).   Both opponents are looking to end the season this week, but could play spoilers to the Crimson Tide

The Lady Tide are sitting in a better situation and more than likely looking at a road first round playoff matchup. Minden (6-10-3) currently sits at No. 23 in the power rankings and looks to improve their seeding with two teams that should add to their win facing North Caddo (4-14-0) and Huntington (3-11-0).  Minden defeated Huntington 4-0 and North Caddo 6-0 earlier in the season.   Minden looks like they could float between the No.23 and No. 27 seed.     

The playoff announcement will be made on Tuesday.  Stayed tuned to Webster Parish Journal for the soccer post-season.  

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This week has been a heavy one. I would be lying if I did not say…I am a tad bit disappointed in 2024 so far.  

Which is exactly the reason I have decided to keep it light this week. I think we could all use it. So, when thinking about what I would write about this week, for some odd reason Forrest Gump came to mind. Do not ask. I cannot even begin to understand the way my mind works, so I would not expect you to either. 

Maybe it is because it is my comfort movie? That is the best explanation I can give. We all have those movies or shows that perhaps remind us of easier times like our childhood or maybe they just make us happy, so we find ourselves turning them on when things are looking bleak.  

So, Forrest Gump it is.  

I started watching this movie and I could not help but think… Gump would make one hell of a meteorologist.  

In the middle of the move, he tells us about his time in Vietnam during the war. During his tour, Gump describes what seemed like a never-ending rainstorm, weirdly like what we have been seeing here in North Louisiana this week. (I am beginning to think it will never stop.) 

He said, “One day, it started raining, and it didn’t quit for four months. We been through every kind of rain there is. Little bitty stinging rain, big ol’ fat rain… Rain that flew in sideways. And sometimes rain even seemed to come straight up from underneath. Shoot, it even rained at night.” 

Sounds familiar, right? 

If I recall correctly, I am fairly sure he even asked if someone could turn it off?… Anyone? No? Okay. 

When I watch movies, I have always been really good at noticing foreshadowing. We can thank my eighth-grade English teacher for that. (Side note: One time she made us watch Steel Magnolias in class during this lesson on foreshadowing. You remember the scene where they are celebrating Shelby’s son Jack’s birthday? Well, if you recall, during that scene they show everyone sitting around a table singing “Happy Birthday.” They show the whole family except Shelby. You can see Jack sitting in her lap, but it never shows her face. Apparently, this was foreshadowing that Shelby was going to die. Who knew? Traumatizing, right?) 

But back to Forrest Gump…  

I have always viewed that tranquil rain scene as foreshadowing that things are about to get out of hand. It is not particularly because of the rain specifically, but because of the song playing in the background of the scene right before the rain ends and the ambush begins. The song, “For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield, goes like this… 

“There’s something happening here. What it is ain’t exactly clear. There’s a man with a gun over there telling me I got to beware.” 

Pretty crazy right? 

I sure hope this rain we are getting here in Louisiana is not foreshadowing for another ambush. I think the many devastating and abrupt losses the community has experienced in the last couple of weeks, along with the shutdown following the ice storm, is enough for a little while.  

I am choosing to think of the rain as a new beginning versus the foreboding. Let it wash away all the griminess of 2024 with high hopes of a fresh start.

(Paige Nash is a mother of three girls, publisher of Bienville Parish Journal and Claiborne Parish Journal and a digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal.)

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A Claiborne Parish resident who shops in Minden is in a Webster Parish jail for felony theft.

Shannon Gilmore, 40, of the 800 block of Airport Loop Road, Homer, is charged when she was caught on camera stealing items from a local discount store.

Det. Sgt. Jason Smith with Minden Police Department said officers were dispatched to the Homer Road location Thursday.

“They (store employees) had her (Gilmore) on misdemeanor theft,” Smith said. “So, she was issued a summons. The next day, after reviewing more tape, they realized she committed felony theft for more than $1,000.”

Smith said Gilmore was “improperly scanning” the items at a self-checkout register.

“What people like her do is take a seasoning packet or a really small, inexpensive item and hold it right next to the bar code of the more expensive item,” said the detective. “After reviewing more video, store employees could tell from the overhead cameras that it was a felony.”

Smith said the summons was recalled and Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s deputies went to her house and arrested Gilmore on a felony warrant.

“The report said she scanned five different items that rang up as 97 cents each.” Smith said, adding the department has seen this happen at least 50 to 60 times. “But you can actually see from the top-down camera what she was really scanning. Their equipment is getting pretty sophisticated, and they’re catching a lot more people.”

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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An argument between a Minden man and his former girlfriend has landed a Ringgold man in the local lockup facing a gun-related charge.

Minden Chief of Police Jared McIver said 36-year-old Jeremy L. Wiggins was arrested after an investigation into the Tuesday evening incident at a Gloria St. residence. He is charged with aggravated assault with a firearm and unauthorized entry of a inhabited dwelling.

Officers enroute to answer the complaint learned the suspect and the ex-girlfriend had left the residence, McIver said, but the vehicle was soon located and the pair was detained.

An investigation revealed the victim and his former girlfriend began arguing inside the Gloria St. residence, and Wiggins allegedly came inside and pulled a handgun. McIver said the two individuals were asked to leave the residence, and did so. Wiggins reportedly was placed in custody without incident.

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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A 31-year-old Arkansas woman is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center (BDCC) following her arrest Tuesday by Springhill police on drug-related charges.

Springhill Chief of Police Will Lynd said Hannah Marie Yates of Magnolia is facing charges of possession of CDS Sch. II (Hydrocodone) and possession of CDS Sch. II (Ecstasy, five counts) when she was pulled over shortly after 7 p.m. for allegedly driving recklessly. Yates faces additional counts of resisting arrest and resisting by false information, Lynd said.

SPD Officer K. Rankins stopped Yates after she reportedly drove her vehicle through the parking lot of a local convenience store in an unsafe manner for the weather conditions, the Chief said. 

“The suspect reportedly told Officer Rankins she did not have a valid drivers license, and he asked her to exit the vehicle,” Lynd said. “After telling our officer there was nothing inside the vehicle that might be illegal, she denied a request to search. At that point, the officer requested our K9 officer for a ‘free air’ search and he alerted to narcotics on the driver’s side.”

Lynd said Officer Rankin recovered what proved to hydrocodone and ecstasy pills during a search of the suspect and she was placed in custody.  Resisting charges reportedly were added when the suspect struggled with officers, throwing herself to the ground and later kicking doors while inside the patrol unit.

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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An recent investigation by the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) has led to the arrest of Quanterrick Montgomery, 18, of Webster Parish, and Jeremiah Crane, 18, of Bienville Parish for aggravated burglary.

The investigation stemmed from a reported burglary at a Homer residence where three firearms, a PlayStation 5, and an AR-15 style air rifle were reported stolen. Claiborne Parish detectives collected evidence that ultimately led to the arrest of the two men.

Montgomery and Crane are currently incarcerated on the Claiborne Parish warrants. They have additional felony charges pending from Bienville Parish. With the assistance of Bienville Parish authorities, Claiborne Parish detectives were able to recover the stolen air rifle, the PlayStation 5, and two of the stolen AR-15’s within 48 hours of the initiation of the investigation by CPSO.

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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Cooking with a new electric pressure cooker does not have to be frightening. The new electric pressure cooker works by creating steam to build enough pressure to cook its contents. This boiling steam is trapped under a tightly sealed lid and raises the pressure and temperature to very high levels so that the food inside cooks thoroughly in just a matter of minutes. The electric pressure cooker has a release valve that controls the pressure, and an auto shut off mechanism that shuts the cooker down if the pressure gets too high.  Another great feature is that the lid of the cooker locks not allowing it to open until the pressure is released, or naturally allowed to reduce on its own. Electric pressure cookers are very safe to use.  Did you know that you can boil eggs in a pressure cooker? See below instructions on how to make the perfect boiled eggs in an instant. 

Perfect Boiled Eggs in a Pressure Cooker Recipe

Ingredients: 

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup water
• Rack that comes with the Electric pressure cooker

Instructions:

• 1. Place the rack in the bottom of the pot.  
  2. Pour water into pot.
  3. Place eggs on the rack.

For soft-boiled eggs:

1. Set on high pressure on manual 3 minutes.  
2. Quick release placing a towel over the valve, so steam does not get everywhere.
3. Quickly run eggs under cold, running water until cool enough to hold.
4. Peel right away and enjoy!

For hard-boiled eggs:

1. Set on high pressure on manual for 5 minutes.
2. Natural release 5 minutes, then use quick release placing towel over the valve so steam does not get everywhere.
3. Quickly run eggs under cold, running water until cool enough to hold.
4. Peel right away and enjoy!

PRO Tip: Soaking eggs in ice-cold water stops the cooking process, achieving more tender eggs and a perfectly cooked yolk. Always read your pressure cooker manual before using it for the first time. 

(Shakera Williams, M.P.H., Assistant Extension Agent & Webster Parish Chair, Serving Webster & Claiborne Parishes.)

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By Tracy Campbell

Guest speakers for today’s noon meeting of the Minden Lions Club will be Ron and Alana Greenwich. Their presentation will be on “35 years in Brazil.”

Ron and Alana met while students at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark. They later worked at the Methodist Children’s Home in Waco, Texas, and the Arkansas Baptist Home for Children in Monticello, Ark. After Ron completed his MSW at the University of Houston, he worked as program supervisor for the Human Development Center in Warren, Ark. 

After a visit with Alana’s missionary parents, Bill and Jerry Ichter, in Brazil, Ron and Alana both began sensing God was calling them to the mission field. In 1983 they were appointed as missionaries by the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention (at that time called the Foreign Mission Board). Ron and Alana left for Brazil with their three children and embarked on the most blessed adventure of their lives. At the end of a year of language school, their youngest son was born and they moved to Florianópolis in the Southern part of Brazil. There they worked as church planters and were very involved in social ministries through the churches. 

Ron and Alana retired to take care of Alana’s parents in Minden, and it was such a blessing to be able to do that. After they both passed away, the International Mission Board called them back to Brazil for three years to mentor the new missionaries that arrived in Brazil during their first year of language acquisition and cultural adaptation. They returned to Minden in late July 2023 and are back home in Minden. Ron and Alana have four children and 15 grandchildren.

Ron and Alana will be introduced Thursday by Lion Rev. Leon Boggs.

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

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

Current

Registration open for Upwards Soccer, hosted by North Acres Baptist Church. Discounts available for multiple children. Scholarships also available. K5-5th grade boys and girls. Games will be Saturday mornings at North Acres Baptist Church, beginning March 16 through April 27. Contact church office at 377-4315 for more information. https://regisgtration.upward.org UPW85195 .

Jan. 25

10 a.m. Grand opening, The Back Porch, inside Exacta Inn.

Jan. 26

5 until 8 p.m. Springhill Main St. Mardi Gras Parade. Click the link to sign up for the parade:  https://form.jotform.com/240015970227046 .

Jan. 27

Mardi Gras Fasching Parade 2024, downtown Minden. More details coming soon. Click the link to sign up for the parade: https://www.mindenla.org/mainstreet-page/ .

10 a.m. until 2 p.m. LifeShare Blood Drive and Springhill Fire Department, Brookshires – Springhill location, 400 Butler Street.

Jan. 28

Deadline to register for the 8th Annual Caddo Classic for Webster 4-H Shooting Sports.

Jan. 31

11:50 p.m. nominations due for Woman of the Year. https://form.jotform.com/ywscofminden/2024WomanoftheYear 

11:59 p.m., nominations due for Man of the Year. https://docs.google.com/…/1ebb7DFsd-TIb…/edit…

11:59 p.m. deadline for business awards’ nominates at https://greatermindenchamber.com/awardsgala/ 

Feb. 8-11

Minden St. Jude Auction.

Feb. 10

1 p.m. North Webster 13th Annual Black History Parade. Line up starts on Church Street. Deadline to sign up is Feb. 5. Grand Marshal: Edward Bankhead.

Feb. 27

6:30 p.m. Doors open for the 82nd Annual Greater Minden Chamber Awards Gala at Minden Civic Center. Program begins at 7 p.m.

March 2

Caney Puzzler Adventure Race, Caney Lakes

March 3

6:30 p.m. True Girl Crazy Hair Tour at First Baptist Minden for mothers and daughters ages 7-12. This live event will be full of games, worship, fashion show, solid biblical truth and will deepen the relationship between mothers and their daughters. Visit www.mytruegirl.com for tickets. For more information, call the church office at 318-377-4434.

March 16

9 a.m. until noon, District 2 Star of Hope O.E.S. 30th Annual Gala, “Star Struck” Welcome to Old Hollywood. 630 Factory Outlet Dr., Arcadia, La. Attire: Sunday’s best with “fascinators and fedoras. Entertainment, food, drawings. Public is welcome. $5 donation at the door.

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