Tuesday

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. South wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tuesday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Cloudy, with a low around 69. South wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 85. Southwest wind around 10 mph.

Wednesday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Thursday

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 85.

Thursday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.

* Information courtesy of National Weather Service.

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Charles Eldon James, known to all as Charlie, fulfilled his rich life of 94 years on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.  Born October 4, 1929, in a country family home in Arcadia, Louisiana to William Eugene James and Willie Kees Chandler James, he ventured off to live in Tulsa, Oklahoma for a little bit but returned to his longtime area of Minden still with his wife Fran by his side day and night.

Charlie joined the United States Air Force at the age of 17.   He was stationed in Japan, California, Alaska, Florida, Germany, New Mexico, Hawaii, and Utah.  He retired from the USAF after 22 years.  After his military service he worked at the Louisiana Army Ammunition Plant until he officially retired.  

Known and loved by so many people, Charlie was the unofficial groundskeeper at Glenbrook School for countless years.  Even after he moved from Minden, each trip back to town would have him circling the school campus and asking many questions about who was taking care of what and why was such-and-such taking place.  He needed to know!  He and Fran began coaching elementary basketball at Glenbrook when their grandson Jeremy was a young boy.  From that day forward they did not miss a basketball game any of their grandchildren played, coaching when needed, driving more hours than anyone could ever keep track of to keep the books for the team and offering rides for students who needed it and fed hospitality rooms, coaches, and referees as if it were their only job.  Hospitality, welcoming, fulfilling were all words anyone who knew him could use to describe him so very well.  He and his wife Fran were awarded into the Glenbrook School Hall of Fame, even having the Glenbrook Parfleche yearbook dedicated to them in the same year.  After their basketball years were officially over the two spent all of their free time traveling in their RV spending many cold months in Mission, TX and summer in Pennsylvania to watch Little League World Series games.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Frances Ann West James, brother Vernon James, daughters Vicki James Mighell and Camilla James Madden, and son Charles Michael James.  He had seven grandchildren: Jeremy Patterson, Mathew Patterson, Jacob O’Rear, Ashley Rowton, Erin Ramsey, Emily James, and Laura James.  Also in the mix are 6 great grandchildren of whom he still enjoyed attending ball games and their various activities.

Preceded in death were Charlie’s sister Clois Eugenia James and brother Kedrick Benard James.

Pallbearers to attend Charlie’s side are Nick Rowton, Ryan Reagan, Heath Ramsey, Jeremy Patterson, Jacob O’Rear.  Honorary pallbearers are Mathew Patterson, Bill James, Ben James, and Kenneth James.

Charlie wanted his service and burial to be at Mr. Mariah Methodist Church in Arcadia as he helped build the church as a young boy with his own father.  Tom Howe will officiate the service to honor Charlie’s life at Mt. Mariah Methodist on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at 11 a.m.  A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 16 at Rose Neath Funeral Home in Minden from 5 – 6:30 p.m.

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If you have ever had the pleasure of running into Kathy Bailey and Margaret Hales around the Minden community, the sentiment you most likely felt when walking away was simply more enthusiastic about your day.  

Effusive.  Abundant.  Genuine.  Encouraging.  Upbeat.  These two second grade teachers at Glenbrook School fill the halls and classrooms with these attributes.  Kathy Bailey teaches reading while Margaret Hales teaches math as well as social studies and science.  These two teachers are a right and left hand to each other during their day, constantly in tune with the other and making sure their tasks set before them are coordinated seamlessly.    

Kathy Bailey, from Benton, LA, has taught for 47 years.  She has been at Glenbrook School for 7 years.  Margaret Hales, from Minden, LA, has taught for 45 years and has been a second grade teacher at Glenbrook School for 9 years.  This duo works so very well together, even claiming they think so much alike and have a profound appreciation for their profession and dedication to the children in the classroom.  These ladies coordinate their lessons together to best complement the students each week.  

Three standout highlights of teaching second grade for these two ladies are:

• A visit to Safety Town in Shreveport each year.  They teach a safety curriculum from the Caddo Parish Sheriff Office in advance of the visit and use it to teach personal awareness, car safety, and home safety.  Each teacher uses the curriculum in conjunction with the writing, reading, and math being taught.
• Mardi Gras.  For many years, retired school teacher Becky Marvin came to teach a 6-week program on the history and importance of Mardi Gras in Louisiana.  Mrs. Marvin is now assisted by retired school teacher Becky Mourad.  The teachers weave this into the social studies, reading and writing.  There is even a festive end on Fat Tuesday when each student dresses up as a Mardi Gras character, introduces themselves to the student body and then participates in a parade.
• The 2^nd Grade Butterfly Garden.  This joint project of several teachers is ultimately cared for by the 2^nd grade class.  The entire campus enjoys this flower studded spot.  

When asked what motivates them to teach, Mrs. Hales says, “I teach to make children accountable – to themselves, their peers, and their families.”  Mrs. Bailey responds, “I teach in a manner that I would want my own children and grandchildren to be taught.”  They call themselves “old school,” and while embracing new curriculum and an ever-changing world is challenging for all of us, they put their best foot forward each day and choose to succeed.  Mrs. Hales said the new technological methods of teaching introduced each year help them to keep learning themselves which she embraces.  Mrs. Bailey said that when she came to Glenbrook School, “I feel back in love with teaching again.  The environment at Glenbrook School motivates me to help, encourage, and mentor others.”  

And if all of these daily activities are not enough, both teachers travel together to countless extra-curricular activities to cheer for their students at hot and cold ball games, church and community events, and anything extra their present and past students are involved in.  There is no shortage of hugs, big smiles and an enriching of both students’ and parents’ lives by their showing up.

A fellow elementary teacher, Jennifer Mosley, says, “I had the pleasure of teaching 2nd grade with Margaret Hales for 4 years, and in that time I witnessed her endless patience, compassion, and genuine care for her students. She is a teacher who would do anything to help the kids and who bends over backwards for her coworkers. I love walking by Kathy Bailey’s class to see the writing samples she displays outside on the wall. She has a gift for teaching young students to write creatively!”

More than humble, these ladies both say, “We do what we can.”  How remarkable is it that their every day duties are viewed by everyone else as richly devoted and incredibly top notch but to themselves as simply modest.  Glenbrook School’s students and families are made better by their presence, time, and many talents.

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By Pat Culverhouse

The Town of Sibley has been selected as a recipient of the 2023-24 Keep Louisiana Beautiful Trash Receptacle Grant Program made possible by funding from the state of Louisiana and the office of the Lieutenant Governor. 

Sibley received four trash receptacles to place at locations in the town. The goal is to significantly reduce litter in the town.

“We are grateful to receive this grant from Keep Louisiana Beautiful. With the new trash receptacles and our annual ‘Love the Boot’ Clean-up Day, we hope our citizens will properly dispose of their litter and continue efforts to keep Sibley clean,” said Mayor Robert Smart.

According to the 2023 Louisiana Litter Research Study, an estimated $91,409,573 was spent in 2022 by local governments and state agencies on cleanup, prevention, and remediation efforts related to litter and illegal dumping across Louisiana. 

That figure represents a cost increase of 65 percent since 2010 after adjustment for inflation. Municipalities, cities, and towns bear the highest percentage of litter costs (36.4%).

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Springhill Medical Center welcomes Joseph Nicholas, Physician’s Assistant specializing in Orthopedics. Orthopedics focuses on treating the musculoskeletal system. This system comprises muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. To make an appointment, call 318-539-1701.

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Meriwether Wealth & Planning teamed up with Durrett Law & Title and the Greater Minden Chamber to offer a no-cost lunch and learn seminar Friday. The event was held at the Greater Minden Chamber’s office. Participants were provided with a meal by Brick Street Coffee and learned about considerations surrounding estate planning. Andy Pendergrass, partner and financial advisor at Meriwether, and Andy Durrett, owner and managing attorney at Durrett Law & Title, covered topics such as trusts, long-term care insurance, last will and testament, durable power of attorney, and advanced healthcare directive. The presentation was followed by an active question and answer session.

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United Christian Assistance Program has the following needs for this week:

Food: Powdered milk, crackers, biscuit & cornbread mix

Household goods: king & queen sheets, towels & wash cloths

Toiletries: soap, deodorant, toothpaste, adult diapers and bed pads

Monetary donations

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 .

April 16

4 until 7:30 p.m. Spring Market at Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College on Industrial Drive.

6 p.m. Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce 70th Annual Awards Banquet. Community Activity Center, 301 West Church St., Springhill. Entertainment by Piney Woods Jamboree. Table sponsorships available. Individual tickets $50.

April 18

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Senior Fun Day sponsored by Springhill Medical Center. Springhill CAC Building. Ages 50 and older. Free admission. Free meal sponsored by Bristol Hospice.

April 19 & 20

Hwy. 80 Spring Sales

April 20

10 a.m. Scottish Tartan Festival at Miller Quarters

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

6 p.m. LaMa Animal Rescue hosts Murder on the Boardwalk, Oak Cottage, 406 3rd St. NW, Springhill. Tickets much be purchased in advance. Call 318-272-6093.

April 20 through 28

Love the Boot week, Community Clean Up.

April 27

9 a.m. until sold out Minden Lions Club Spring Chicken Charbroil. Tickets $10 each. Walmart Supercenter parking lot.

9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Trails and Trellises Garden Tours Rain or Shine.

10 a.m. Simply Southern Saturday.

April 29

5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Food Truck Night at Miller Quarters. Live entertainment by Braydon Watts. Sponsored by Main Street Minden and Minden Police Chief Jared McIver.

May 4

9 a.m. through 3 p.m. Piney Needles Quilt Guild is presenting “Splendor in the Scraps,” South Main Mall, Springhill. Joyce O’Neil is featured quilter. There will be vendors, many quilts on display, and FREE admission!

6 p.m. Follow the Yellow Brick Road to LaMa Bingo, Springhill Civic Center. $50 jackpot, $100 and $200 games, door prizes, silent auction, concessions, costume contest, split the pot.

May 18

9 a.m. Registration, 10 a.m. Freedom Walk 2024 at Broken Bean. Sponsorships available. Registration $25 per person. All proceeds go to Minden Adult and Team Challenge. Live music, food, fun, games and more … ends at 4 p.m. Register online at www.laatc.com/freedomwalk or at Broken Bean. Call 318-382-0203 or 318-469-5393 with questions.

May 24, 25

A committee of former Thomas & Rhone Elementary School students have planned a reunion for all former students, faculty and staff.  This reunion is schedule for Memorial Day Weekend, Friday and Saturday, (May 24 and 25).  All activities will be held at the Shongaloo Civic Center, 119 LA 2 Alt Rd, in Shongaloo, La.

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Staff Report

There have been quite a few black bear sighting in north Louisiana in recent months.

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) has adopted an amended Notice of Intent to hold a Louisiana black bear hunting season in December 2024 in northeast Louisiana. The action came during the commission’s April meeting in Baton Rouge.

The hunt, which will be by lottery and administered by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will be confined to Bear Management Area 4, which includes Tensas, Madison, East and West Carroll parishes and portions of Richland, Franklin and Catahoula parishes. The season will run from December 7 through December 22.

Hunts will be restricted to properly licensed Louisiana residents by letter. All successful applicants for the hunt will be required to attend a LDWF beast hunter training course.

To see the amended and complete NOI, go to https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/resources/category/commission-action-items.

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Thurs., April 11

Lakeside Warriors 5, D’Arbonne Woods Timberwolves 4

Lakeside Warriors beat D’Arbonne Woods Timberwolves 5-4 Thursday.

Lakeside got on the board in the second inning after Brock Case singled, scoring one run.

A single by Hunter Sutton extended the lead to 2-0 in the top of the third.

D’Arbonne Woods tied the game in the bottom of the sixth.

In the top of the seventh, Lakeside took back the lead when Matthew Aguilera doubled, Sutton singled and Eli Campbell singled, each scoring one run.

Sutton earned the win for Warriors. He allowed seven hits and four runs (two earned) over six and two-thirds innings, striking out five and walking two. Campbell collected the save.

Lakeside piled up nine hits in the game. Sutton provided pop in the middle of the lineup and led Lakeside with two runs batted in. The pitcher went 3 for 4 on the day. Aguilera collected two hits in three at-bats, and Warriors turned one double play in the game.

Minden Crimson Tide 2, North DeSoto 3

Thursday’s game against North DeSoto was a heartbreaker for Minden, as they lost the lead late in a 3-2 defeat. The game was tied at two in the bottom of the seventh when North DeSoto scored a run.

Both teams were strong on the bump. North DeSoto pitchers struck out eight, while the Tide sat down eight.

Minden got on the board in the first inning after Brody Bower singled, scoring one run. They added a run in the third after Bower hit into a fielder’s choice.

Jaxon Smith took the loss for Minden. The reliever went one and two-thirds innings, giving up two runs on three hits, striking out two and walking none. Bower began the game. The starter surrendered two hits and one run over five innings striking out five and walking six.

Bower drove the middle of the lineup with two runs batted in. The pitcher went 1 for 2 on the day. Bower, Jakobe Jackson and Hudson Brown each collected one hit, and the team turned one double play in the game.

North Webster Knights 0, Red River Bulldogs 4

North Webster fell to Red River Bulldogs Thursday.

Sawyer Wages took the loss for Knights. He went four innings, allowing four runs (three earned) on four hits, striking out three and walking two.

Fri., April 12

Doyline Panthers 3, Haughton Bucs 5

Haughton defeated Doyline Friday, thanks in part to six runs in the sixth inning.

A double by Cayden Mingo on an 0-2 count put Doyline on the board in the top of the first.

Mingo then doubled in the top of the fifth, which helped Panthers tie the game at three.

Noah Spears took the loss for Panthers. The starting pitcher went five innings, giving up five runs on four hits, striking out eight and walking six.

Mingo provided pop in the middle of the lineup and led with three runs batted in. The shortstop went 2 for 3 on the day.

Doyline Panthers 2, Haughton Bucs 15

Haughton Bucs had nine runs in the third inning that helped defeat Panthers in the second game Friday.

Benton Bates took the loss for Doyline. He went two innings, surrendering nine runs on seven hits, striking out none and walking two.

Austin Arbaugh led Doyline with one run batted in. The leadoff hitter went 1 for 3 on the day. Noah Sparks, Jonas Florence and Arbaugh each collected one hit for Doyline. Cayden Mingo stole two bases.

Glenbrook Apaches 11, Oak Grove Tigers 0

Glenbrook Apaches scored seven runs in the third inning which helped them defeat Oak Grove Friday. Easton Sanders singled, scoring one run, Sam Ricord drew a walk, scoring one run, an error scored one run, Hudson Glasscock doubled, scoring three runs and Jackson Waller grounded out, scoring one run.

A homer to left field by Sanders put Glenbrook on the board in the bottom of the first.

Sanders earned the win. The starter gave up no hits and no runs over five innings, striking out eight and walking none.

Sanders led Apaches with two hits in two at-bats. Glasscock and Sanders each drove in three runs for Glenbrook. Dawson Day and Ricord had two of the team’s seven walks for the game.

Lakeside Warriors 9, D’Arbonne Woods Timberwolves 5

Despite trailing by as many as four runs, Lakeside Warriors rallied to top D’Arbonne Woods Timberwolves in Friday’s first game.

Jordan Isbell collected three hits in four at-bats in the win. Isbell singled in the third, fourth and sixth innings.

Lakeside got on the board in the first when Matthew Aguilera grounded out, scoring one run.

Warriors made the score 7-5 in the bottom of the fourth after Isbell singled, scoring three runs and Peyton Gray hit a sacrifice fly, scoring one run.

Gray earned the win for Lakeside. He gave up two hits and no runs over four and two-thirds innings, striking out one and walking none.

Eli Campbell led things off on the bump. The starter gave up three hits and five runs (three earned) over two and one-third innings, striking out one and walking none.

Gray collected two of Lakeside’s nine hits. He collected two hits in three at-bats. Jake Glass stole two bases.

Lakeside Warriors 3, D’Arbonne Woods Timberwolves 6

Lakeside fell to Da’Arbonne Woods in the second game Friday despite out-hitting them eight to seven. Peyton Gray, Jordan Isbell and Hunter Sutton each collected two hits for Lakeside.

Isbell took the loss. The righty went five and one-third innings, giving up four runs (three earned) on four hits, striking out two and walking two.

Noah Redding, Sutton and Brock Case each drove in one run. Gage Williams had three of the team’s eight walks for the game.

North Webster Knights 8, Stanley Panthers 9

North Webster could not hold onto the lead against Stanley Friday and fell despite leading by five at one point.

North Webster was right in it until Stanley stole home in the seventh inning.

Knights got on the board in the bottom of the first inning after Tyler Brown grounded out, scoring one run and Colby Dinkins singled, scoring two runs.

Knights extended an early lead with two runs in the bottom of the second thanks to RBI fielders’ choices by Preston Ingle and Cayden Bernard.

They again added a run in the third after Dinkins grounded out.

A steal of home by Bernard gave Knights the lead 8-7 in the bottom of the sixth.

Nathan Bernard pitched three and one-third innings in relief for Knights. The reliever allowed no hits and two runs (one earned) while striking out two and walking four. Ingle began the game. He surrendered one hit and four runs (three earned) over two and one-third innings, striking out two and walking two.

Dinkins led North Webster with two runs batted in. The right-handed hitter went 1 for 4 on the day. Dinkins and Dajuan Coleman each collected one hit. The team tallied seven walks for the game. Bernard and Bernard led the team with two bases on balls each. Bernard stole four of the Knights’ eight stolen bases for the game.

Sat., April 13

Doyline Panthers 21, Bossier Bearkats 0

Dakota Stewart drove in five runs on one hit to lead Doyline Panthers past Bossier Bearkats Saturday.

Stewart singled in the third scoring two, walked in the first scoring one and walked in the second scoring one.

Panthers got on the board in the bottom of the first inning after they scored on a passed ball, Stewart walked, Bossier committed an error and Kenneth Lee walked, each scoring one run.

Doyline scored nine runs on two hits in the bottom of the second. Zach Normand singled, scoring one run, an error scored two runs, Lee drew a walk, scoring one run, Dari Galvez was struck by a pitch, driving in a run, Noah Spears was struck by a pitch, driving in a run, Cayden Mingo drew a walk, scoring a run, Normand was struck by a pitch, driving in a run and Stewart drew a walk, scoring one run.

Doyline scored eight runs on three hits in the bottom of the third. A dropped third strike scored one two different times in the inning. Stewart singled, scoring two runs, James Dodge drew a walk, scoring one run, Lee drew a walk, scoring one run, Austin Arbaugh singled, scoring one run and Kenneth Anderson was struck by a pitch driving in a run.

Stewart earned the win for Doyline. The right-handed pitcher gave up one hit and no runs over two innings, striking out three and walking none. Lee pitched two innings of scoreless relief for Doyline. The righty allowed no hits, striking out six and walking one.

Leadoff hitter Arbaugh led with two hits in four at-bats. Lee led with three of the team’s 15 walks for the game.

North Webster Knights 13, Plain Dealing Lions 1

North Webster scored seven runs in the second inning, which helped them defeat Plain Dealing in the first game Saturday.

Tyler Brown doubled, scoring two runs, two errors scored one run each, Dajuan Coleman and Chandler McKenzie both singled, each scoring one run and Tanner Temple drew a walk, scoring one run.

Knights jumped out to the lead in the bottom of the first after Colby Dinkins singled, scoring two runs and Coleman drew a walk, scoring one run.

North Webster added one run in the third when Coleman singled on an 0-2 count, making the score 11-1.

Temple stepped on the bump first for Knights. The righty surrendered two hits and one run (zero earned) over four innings, striking out eight and walking five.

Knights piled up 10 hits in the game. Temple and Coleman each collected two hits for the team. Dinkins and Coleman each drove in three runs.

North Webster Knights 16, Plain Dealing Lions 3

Knights slayed the Lions again in the second game Saturday.

North Webster jumped out to the lead in the bottom of the first after a dropped third strike scored one run. Tyler Brown singled, scoring two runs, a dropped third strike scored one run, Gerrrit Gillentine singled, scoring one run and Nathan Bernard drew a walk, scoring one run.

An error extended the lead to 9-2 in the bottom of the second inning.

Knights added a run in the third making the score 10-2 when Lions committed an error.

North Webster scored six runs on two hits in the bottom of the fourth. Chandler McKenzie singled, scoring two runs, Tanner Temple doubled, scoring one run, an error scored one run and another error scored two runs.

Gillentine earned the win. The starting pitcher surrendered one hit and two runs (one earned) over three innings, striking out three and walking one. Landon Allen appeared in relief for NWHS.

Wages and Gillentine each collected two hits. Temple, McKenzie, Aeron Scott, Gillentine and Brown each drove in one run. Temple, Wages, Colby Dinkins, Bernard, Denver Martin and Brown each stole multiple bases of the 21 stolen for the game.

Minden Crimson Tide 5, Loyola 3

Bryson Ranger collected three hits in three at-bats, as Minden defeated Loyola Saturday. Ranger singled in the third inning, doubled the fifth inning and singled in the seventh.

The Tide opened the scoring in the first after Ranger hit a sacrifice fly, scoring one run.

A single by Ranger extended the Tide lead to 2-0 in the top of the third.

Jaxon Smith earned the win for Minden. He gave up seven hits and three runs over seven innings, striking out one and walking none.

Landon Brewer collected two hits for Minden in three at-bats.

Mon., April 15

Lakeside Warriors 0, Evangel Christian Academy Eagles 2

Both teams were strong on the bump Monday, But Evangel was just a little bit stronger at the plate in their victory over Lakeside. Hunter Sutton started the game for Lakeside and recorded 18 outs.

Sutton took the loss. The starter went six innings, surrendering two runs on five hits, striking out two and walking two.

Peyton Gray, Jake Glass and Matthew Aguilera each collected one hit. Gray stole three bases.

(“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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April 10

Larry Milton Allums, 62, of the 300 block of Lake Road, Plain Dealing, La., was arrested by WPSO for speeding and illegal possession of stolen things (license plate).

Dylan Andrew Lockwood, 28, of Pine Bluff, Ark., was arrested on U.S. Hwy. 80 and U.S. Hwy. 371 in Webster Parish by LSP-G for driving while intoxicated.

Randall Tyler Simms, 20, no address, was arrested by Springhill Police on seven counts of simple burglary after entering seven businesses and burgling seven Springhill businesses in May, 2022.

April 12

Raymond Pulley, 52, of the 1000 block of Yellow Pine, Sibley, was arrested by WPSO on a warrant for domestic abuse battery.

Johnni Laureece McCaleb, 31, of the 100 block of Katie Lane, Minden, was arrested by MPD for driving under suspension and failure to yield to an emergency vehicle.

Eric Haferseder, 28, of the 200 block of Monica Ln., Springhill, was arrested by Springhill Police for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia/prohibited acts.

Stephen Ryland Young, 38, of the 200 block of Monica Ln., Springhill, was arrested by Springhill Police for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia/prohibited acts.

April 13

Jacob Lawrence David, 33, of Forest Glades, Sibley, was arrested by WPSO on failure to appear in court warrants for failure to pay child support and no seatbelt.

Shicarrion Alize Noles, 24, of the 100 block of Stanley St., Minden, was arrested by LSP-G on E. Union and Abney streets for fugitive warrants and resisting an officer.

April 14

Carlos A. Harges, 63, of the 100 block of Eisenhower Dr., Minden, was arrested by MPD for possession of crack cocaine, obstruction of justice, resisting with force or violence and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Giselle Monique Moore, 26, of Lafayette, La., was arrested in Webster Parish at La. 531 and U.S. Highway 79 by LSP-G for driving while intoxicated.

Marques D. Timothy, 40, of the 13,000 block of U.S. Hwy. 80, Minden, was arrested by Dixie Inn Police on active warrants from Dixie Inn, Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office and Minden Police.

April 15

Davontra Kentrell Brewer, 19, of the 2300 block of Rodney Martin Rd., Shongaloo, was arrested by Springhill Police for possession of a stolen firearm.

Chrystal Dawn Thomas, 45, of the 100 block of Country Pines, Minden, was arrested on active warrants for driving under suspension and no headlights/

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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Shirley Teutsch Gamble

August 12, 1936 – April 12, 2024

Minden, La.

Visitation: 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 16, 2024, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. immediately following visitation.

Burial: 12:30 p.m. Holly Springs Cemetery

Elvaretta Burchfield

Jan. 20, 1933 – April 13, 2024

Springhill, La.

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 17, 2024, Springhill Cemetery, 600 Cemetery Rd., Springhill, La.

Charles E. James

Oct. 4, 1929 – April 9, 2024

Arcadia, La.

Visitation: 5 unit 6:30 p.m.Tuesday, April 16, 2024, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 17, 2024, Mt. Mariah Methodist Church.

Burial: Mt. Mariah Methodist Church Cemetery.

Rex Jarrell Young

Nov. 29, 1935 – April 10, 2024

Homer, La.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, April 18, 2024, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Homer, La.

Funeral service: 10 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2024, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Homer.

Burial: Hurricane Cemetery near Athens, 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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By Pat Culverhouse

A Haynesville man who was wounded during a domestic incident on April Fool’s Day at a Pistol Thomas Rd. residence has been charged with attempted second degree murder.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said 30-year-old Gabriel Amr Ibrahim Elgindy was arrested Thursday by U.S. Marshals on a Webster Parish warrant following his release from a Shreveport hospital where he had been treated for a gunshot wound suffered in the incident.

Parker said Elgindy was booked into Caddo Correctional Center as a fugitive from Webster Parish. He currently is awaiting transfer to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. 

Elgindy is charged with threatening his uncle, 51-year-old James Patrick Lumpkin, inside the Pistol Rd. residence, then following Lumpkin outside while armed with a knife. Despite continued warnings to stop, Elgindy was eventually shot once in the leg when he refused requests to stop.

“Witnesses verified Elgindy was the aggressor, continuously coming toward Mr. Lumpkin and screaming threats,” Parker said. “Witnesses also told our investigators that Mr. Lumpkin retreated several yards and asked him to put the knife down many times before finally firing a shot.”

Parker said results of the investigation were forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for review.

“The DA’s office has declined prosecution of Mr. James Lumpkin, ruling that he fired in self defense,” Parker said.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Dealing with adjudicated property can mean extra time and money for a governmental entity. That’s why hiring an outside agency to do the footwork could be a good idea.

The legal description of adjudicated property is that which tax sale title is acquired by a political subdivision …

So, what is a political subdivision? It is a parish, municipality and any other unit of local government, including a school board and a special district, authorized by law to perform governmental functions.

“This is a complicated subject and a common problem,” Minden Mayor Nick Cox pointed out during a council workshop April 2. 

Wesley E. Johnson with E&P Consulting Services LLC of Monroe addressed the City Council on the subject of adjudicated property.

“Until the overhaul of the state law in about 2010, there was no process for the property to go back up for tax sale,” Johnson told the council members. “Once it was adjudicated to the political subdivision, it was just on this list – never to be taxed again.”

The tax debtor redeems the property by paying the back taxes. However, according to Johnson, that doesn’t always happen, and the list continues to grow, bringing a hardship to governmental entities that have libraries, properties and roads to fund.

“There would be a problem if the debtor ever decided they wanted to sell that property,” she said. “But otherwise it’s just sitting there. That’s where you are seeing your blight and abandonment.”

According to Webster Parish Assessor Denise Edwards, there are 63 adjudicated properties inside Minden city limits.

“Some of those the City of Minden is responsible for and some are the responsibility of the Webster Parish Police Jury,” Edwards said.

The redeemer actually still owns the property, however, the City or Parish must maintain it or see that it’s sold.

Johnson is an attorney that works for E&P where she researches adjudicated property to try and clear the title, so it can be sold.

“You will have to pass an ordinance that says you are going to have an adjudicated property program,” Johnson told the council. 

The ordinance will specify the program and who will run it – the City of Minden or a third party (possibly E&P). After the ordinance is passed, the City would enter into a cooperative agreement with Johnson and her company, if the City decides to use a third party.

“You would not pay me anything directly,” Johnson pointed out. “My name will not be on the ordinance anywhere. The interested purchaser of the property is who comes to us, pays us for a fee for research – like who needs to receive notice, send the notice and do all the bits and pieces from start to finish.”

Johnson said the notices are worded by the statute, and often that alerts the property owner and they will redeem the property.

“If that happens, our fee is $1,000,” she said. “It’s placed on the tax bill. We don’t put it on the tax bill until we’ve actually been hired to do the work, we’ve done the work, we’ve sent the notices. If they redeem it, that kills the sale … I can’t sell it to a third person. That means the notices did their job.”

Research includes finding heirs and an heirship educational program.

The City will have a button on a website where Johnson said the City will see, in some cases, redemptions happening before notices are even sent.

Cox said he will be placing the cooperative endeavor agreement on the May 6 council agenda.

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By Paige Gurgainers

As of April 11, the Louisiana Department of Transportation (LADOTD) issued an emergency bridge closure for LA 531 south of LA 532.  

They stated this closure is necessary due to the condition of the structure with repairs scheduled to begin as soon as the materials arrive. As of yet, there is no estimated date for reopening.  

According to LADOTD Public Information Officer Erin Buchanan, the LA 531 project is currently 36 percent complete and expected to wrap up in mid-2025.  

She said, “The contractor is currently working on the mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) wall, which is a retaining wall that is a composite structure consisting of alternating layers of compacted backfill and soil reinforcement elements. The purpose of the wall is to prevent erosion of the structural backfill of the bridge.” 

Following the construction of the bridge, the contractor will begin to build the roadway that will tie into the bridge. According to plans, this will include adjoining roundabouts that will be constructed at the interstate ramps to improve traffic flow.  

Another project underway is for the LA 160 overpass that includes four bridge replacements with the structure over Dorcheat Bayou being the largest. This bridge was closed in 2021 due to the condition of the structure, but the project did not go out for bid until late 2022.  

According to Buchanan this project is approximately 46 percent complete with an expected completion date of Spring 2026.  

“We hope to be able to reopen the Dorcheat Bayou bridge in the Fall 2024. The contractor is currently working on pile driving, which is unfortunately a weather dependent construction activity based on rainfall and water levels,” said Buchanan. “Right now, water levels in the bayou are high.” 

Once the bridge over Dorcheat is completed, the contractor will begin work on the smaller bridges along LA 160.  

Detour signage is posted for alternative routes on both projects and all work will be performed weather permitting.  

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By Paige Gurgainers

The first thing on Monday night’s agenda for the Springhill City Council was to consider going into executive session to discuss litigation matters. This item appeared on last month’s agenda, but the council did not go into executive session due to more information being needed at the time.  

It looks like it will be added to the May agenda, as well. According to Springhill Mayor Ray Huddleston, the lawyer involved was ill and could not attend the April meeting.  

Main Street Manager Amie Poladian gave an update on the recent happenings on Main Street.  

“The North Webster high school art department has completed the mural downtown and Coca-Cola has written a check,” said Poladian. “It has been fully funded by Coca-Cola. We are hoping to have a dedication by the end of the month.” 

The Springhill Farmer’s Market was held this past Saturday, April 6, with approximately 50 vendors and hundreds of attendees coming out.

“The Webster Parish Tourism Convention came up and congratulated us and thanked us for bringing tourism to Springhill. They are hoping to start a similar market in Minden,” said Poladian. 

They will continue to host this market on the first Saturday of every month for the remainder of the year.  

Other items on the agenda included: 

• Amending the budget in the amount of $832,467.32 for the General Fund, Water and Sewer Fund and Community Activity Fund.  
• Approval of emergency repairs to the Shady Oaks Street manhole in the amount of $25,000.  
• Declaring five city vehicles (four city and one Springhill Police Department) as surplus property no longer needed for public use and advertising them for bid.  
• Approval of repairs to the recreation complex green machine in the amount of $4,277.42.  
• Approval for the recreation complex security system to the lowest bidder, Nash Security in the amount of $8,720.00 
• Approval of the Police Chief’s recommendation to hire Raven Gonzalez as a part-time dispatcher, hire Niki Anderson as a full-time patrol officer and accept Jimmy Williams resignation.  
• Approval for payment of the March 2024 monthly vendor bills totaling $88,579.94. 

The City Clean-Up for ‘Love the Boot Week’ will take place on April 22 – 28. Residents are encouraged to clean up their yards. Burning of yard debris will be allowed from April 17 – 28 between the hours of 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. They may haul items to the Maintenance Shop located at 800 7^th Street SE and someone will be there to assist on Saturday and Sunday of that week between the hours of 6:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Citizens may place items out by the curb for city workers to pick-up. Please call the City Hall to have your name added to a list for pick-up at 318-539-5681.  

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By Michelle Bates

The 10th annual Wiggin’ Out Gala was held at Louisiana Tech University last Thursday, raising more than $20,000 for the organization that assists men, women and children who are battling cancer.

After four years of not hosting a gala, the fundraising efforts continued through the COVID-19 pandemic. Vicki Caskey, board member and founder, said during that time, 131 patients received wigs, mustaches, lymphatic garments and gift cards.

“Without the support of the many donors, businesses and individuals, Wiggin’ Out would not be possible,” Caskey said. “It is what has carried us since 2011, through the pandemic and allows us to continue serving those fighting cancer across North Louisiana. We are 13 years strong because of that, and because of the selfless board members and people who volunteer their time, expecting nothing in return.

“A mere thank you will never be enough to express our gratitude on behalf of all cancer patients we have served and will serve because of everyone’s generosity. Everyone who makes Wiggin’ Out possible is greatly appreciated,” she continued.

Board members include: Caskey, president; Matthew Nelson, vice president; Elisha James, secretary; Kim Kavanaugh, board member; and Jamie Dendy, treasurer.

Three women spoke of their journeys and how Wiggin’ Out helped them through their struggles and triumphs during their cancer diagnoses and treatments.

Speakers included Morgan Preaus of Ruston, Cayla Cox of Minden and Melisa Rudd of Arcadia.

“I just hope that you understand the impact that you have on people you don’t even know,” Rudd, a breast cancer survivor, said. “You will touch their lives. Everyone appreciates it, even if they’re not here to personally tell you. You have definitely made an impact on them and us.”

The night included a silent auction, food, live entertainment and a night of fun. Emcees included Kyle and Judith Roberts, and No Good Horses provided live entertainment.

2024 marks the 13th year of service to cancer patients in North Louisiana. Wiggin’ Out serves the north Louisiana region, providing assistance to cancer patients, no matter the type of cancer, no matter the person.

Applying for assistance is simple. Go to http://www.wigginout.org and click on Apply for Help.

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Friday

Sunny, with a high near 77. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the morning.

Friday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 52. South wind around 5 mph.

Saturday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 81. South wind 5 to 15 mph.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 58.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 83.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.

Monday

Partly sunny, with a high near 84.

Monday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Tuesday

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 84.

Tuesday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69.

* Information courtesy of National Weather Service.

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Has anyone ever seen the movie ‘Good Luck Chuck?’  

It’s not what I would call wholesome. It’s actually a little vulgar, but if you have seen it and relate to it in any way, then you will be able to relate to my column this week.  

So, basically in this movie there is a guy and after every woman dates him, she goes on to find her true love. The main character, Charlie, refers to this as a curse. A lot of women find out about him being a ‘good luck charm’ and they seek him out to date him because they know that as soon as they do, the next guy will be her ‘true love’ and the guy she goes on to marry.  

Charlie is just seen as a stepping stone. 

The literal meaning of steppingstone is what most are familiar with: a large stone or line of stones in which one could walk over to get from one place to another.  

Another way a stepping stone could be described would be something that helps someone advance or achieve something. (Like Good Luck Chuck) 

There could be millions of different types of these stepping stones, in many forms, throughout someone’s life. For instance, a certain job could be a stepping stone to a better one, playing in the minor leagues could be a stepping stone to go to the major league, getting engaged is a stepping stone to marriage, or even a person could be a stepping stone, like Charlie.  

The thing with stepping stones is that they are often forgotten. We are always standing on that stone, not exactly enjoying it because we are waiting for something better.  

From an early age, we are always asked what we want to be or accomplish when we grow up – a pre-destined vision of what we want our lives to look like. Most people view life in three dimensions: the past, the present and the future. But only have a clear view of two of those, the past and the present. We can look back all we want, but alas we only have influence over one of those and that would be the present.  

As we walk along this path called life, we leave behind us a trail of stepping stones, each one mapping out the journey we have been on. If we take the time to look back and reflect, we may feel sad, grateful, joyous, angry, etc.  

Although we don’t know what the next steppingstone may bring, we can at least hope that we have learned enough from the past to handle whatever the future steppingstone may bring your way.  

The only thing I know is that the stepping stone I now stand on firmly is solidified by happiness and I am no longer consumed by my past because it is what landed me here and cannot be changed. I am no longer overwhelmed by the future because I will be too busy honoring the promise I have made to myself and others that I encounter to leave a little love behind along the way.

I am standing firm on this stone with confidence knowing that it will lead me to something better. I won’t look back at this stone in despair. Instead, I will appreciate all the knowledge and lessons it’s instilled in me. 

(Paige Gurgainers 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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This April, LSU AgCenter Webster and Claiborne Parish Nutrition Education  presents Garlic. 

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a perennial flowering plant closely related to onions, chives, leeks, and scallion. The word garlic is derived from the Old English word garlēac, meaning “spear-shaped leek”. Garlic plants have a tall, erect stem that can grow to a height of 3 feet. Garlic bulbs have a strong odor and are typically made up of 10 to 20 cloves.  Garlic is thought to have originated in Asia, about 4,000 years ago. At that time, it was thought to be a cure for plague and smallpox. During the 1800’s, garlic was used as an antiseptic to treat wounds.

Pick up a newsletter and cilantro sample with a recipe for delicious Garlic Roasted Vegetables at your Webster Parish Libraries Minden or Springhill Library Branch.

A Taste of Herbs & Spices features a new spice every month to introduce and celebrate heart-healthy flavoring options to all.

#WebsterParishLibraries #YourLibrary #BetterTogether #Garlic #RoastedVegetables

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Pollination is when pollen is moves within flowers or carried from flower to flower by pollenating animals such as bees, butterflies, or the wind.  This transfer leads to fertilization and successful seed and fruit production.  

Monarch butterflies are one of the major pollinators.  They considered endangered.  They enjoy milkweed, butterfly weed and Butterfly bushes.  Planting these in and around your garden Can provide good food sources for them.

Hummingbirds are another good pollinator.  Planting those same plants help to attract them to.  Nepeta Walker’s Low are blue that both attract hummingbirds and butterflies.  Also Asclepias Tuberosa Hello Yellow is a great attract butterflies and birds.  

Planting clovers are a great way to attract bees.  There are many kinds of clovers to plant, most people use white or crimson clover.  It is best to plant these in the fall.  

What you can do to promote and protect pollinators?  You can plant gardens including milkweed and butterfly bushes, and the other plants that we mentioned earlier.  Install houses for bats and bees.  Provide salt or mineral licks for butterflies and water for all wildlife.  Reduce pesticide use, and put flower beds in your lawn.  Lots of schools are teaching this in class and encouraging kids to protect the pollinators.  These gardens look a lot like weeds but are so great for teaching.

Besides trying to feed them, most of the flowers that you plant are beautiful and work well in your flower beds.  

There are lots of people that have bee hives and sell honey locally.  Support them and enjoy the local honey.

(Mitzi Thomas owns Minden Farm & Garden LLC. Watch for her column on Fridays in Webster Parish Journal.)

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Two-day estate sale at well-known house on Elm Street. Furniture, Appliances, Dishes, Silverware, Pictures, and a lot more.

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By Marilyn Miller

My boss scared me the other day. She started out saying she’d like me to write a sports column. Or at least that’s what I heard. “Just one column,” she clarified. “Something about women’s sports” and are they good for sports in general? I guess she asked me because I was a female athlete most of my YOUNGER life.

I got to thinking about it. Women’s collegiate basketball attracting television audiences in excess of 12 million people — a 50-year struggle finally realized, or a phenomenon created by super stars and hype?

Or a combination of the two?

True, many female athletes have reached star status today. Simone Biles in gymnastics. Caitlin Clark in basketball. Angel Reese in basketball. JuJu Watkins in basketball. Alex Morgan in soccer. Hannah Beatus in softball. Charlotte Richards in volleyball. And many more.

Maybe it’s the classic “women are from Venus, men are from Mars” portrayal. Women have brought a lot to sports, especially to team sports, in the last few years, even the last few months. Women know how to express themselves, and they do it in spades when they are on a court, a diamond, or a field.

They are excited to be there, and it shows. Whether its during warm-up, during the game, on the sidelines, in the locker rooms, on the bus, amid crowds of supporters, women athletes know how to express excitement. They know how to smile. And people want to be a part of that – whether it’s from an easy chair in their living room, or on the bleachers. By the millions!

Women athletes today know how to support each other. More and more it seems like men’s teams always have something divisive stirring in their ranks. And they’ve always got something going with the fans that’s divisive.

True, women can stir up things, but that’s usually involving a single game, remarks by a coach, or a simple “gesture” – all things you expect from athletes and teams who are excited to be playing a game they love; and THEY WANT TO WIN!

No matter the sport, women’s teams today are rising in excellence of play as well. Maybe they’ve been hungry for so long, they just want it more. Hungry for play, hungry for competition, hungry for the win…

In the early 1970’s when I was playing collegiate sports, we rarely got what we needed (equipment, fee payments, travel reimbursements, arenas, etc.), much less what we wanted (new equipment, comfortable transportation, facilities, sanctioned games, etc.). Then Title IX came along and at least gave women one thing they wanted and needed – sanctioned playing time. Prior to that, women simply played for the love of the game.

Today things have improved. Just look at the new softball complex at Minden High School. Amazing!! And a long way from the corner of the pasture behind some school building.

But women still have the excitement, the excellence of play, the support for each other that they had prior to Title IX. Today, more and more it’s televised. Or streamed. Women’s collegiate basketball has drawn more spectators in the last few weeks than in the past 50 years combined. Title IX you finally did it!!

Sadly, there is nothing ahead for the majority of female athletes once they finish college. There is the WNBA (basketball), but very few teams compared to the NBA. There is (or was) Women’s Pro Fastpitch (softball), soccer, lacrosse, hockey; but even fewer competing teams. Some play professional sports, but don’t get paid.

In the end it still all boils down to money. The advertisers will pay for who the advertisers want to pay for playing. That’s usually the men. But as I said, more and more women are getting airtime today.

To answer my boss’ question, yes, I believe women have put a new face on athletics, period.

But when it comes down to it, women are still playing for the love of the game.

(Marilyn Miller is an award-winning journalist who won lives in Minden and writes for Webster Parish Journal.)

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