I believe 2016 was the last time Toledo Bend was on fire. Well, 2024 has been very similar to that year so far. The Bend is once again an awesome fishery that is putting out not only quality bass, but bass over ten pounds. This past May during the Bob Sealy Big Bass Splash was the proof that anglers were looking for.

Now understand, all lakes go through some periods of decline and most rebound with good management. It’s like a deer lease; the only way to have quality deer is to manage the herd. It’s been through the coordination and dedication of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Management (TPWM) that Toledo Bend has been able to rebound and become one of the best fisheries in the south.

Here are some numbers from mid-May’s Sealy Big Bass Splash that will illustrate just how good the Bend is fishing at this time.

·      Over the course of three days anglers brought in 94 bass over 6 pounds with 35 of those over 7.00 pounds. 

·      For the first time in years the top 4 bass of the event were over 10 pounds….10.06, 10.52, 10.58, along with the winning bass of 10.64 lbs. 

All Sealy events also have an hourly payback for the top 15 bass each hour. Here’s what it took just to make the Top 15 each hour.

·      Friday – it took a 4.16 lb. bass to make the Top 15.

·      Saturday – it a 4.13 lb. bass to make the Top 15.

·      Sunday – it took at least a 3.72 lb. bass to make the Top 15.

Now to the average person these numbers may not mean much, but to an avid bass fisherman they are eye popping. The numbers show just how good of a fishery Toledo Bend is currently. Additionally, it proves that the lake is putting out quality bass and that will encourage tournament organizations to schedule more events on the Bend.

Now there are other factors that have helped the Bend to become, once again, one of the best bass lakes in the country. Over the last year, there has been a resurgence of grass or what biologist call hydrilla. Both ends of Toledo Bend have good grass beds from Blue Lake (north of San Miguel) down to Housen Bay and Six Mile areas.  Lower water levels of 2023 and early 2024 have also been a factor due to the fact it has allowed more vegetative growth in the shallow water areas.

One thing is clear, Toledo Bend is once again in the category of “Best Lakes in America.” While Mother Nature is the determining factor on just how good this lake will be in the future, it’s up to all anglers to do our part with fish management. It’s our job to take care of our catch on tournament day and make sure the fish we release back into the lake are in great condition to be caught again.

Till next time, good luck, good fishing and let’s all try to practice catch and release on all our waterways. Keep what you can eat and throw the rest back to be caught another day.  

Steve Graf                                                                         

Angler’s Perspective

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Douglas Davis

May 8, 1935 – April 24, 2024

Arcadia, La.

Graveside service: 10 a.m. Saturday, June 29, 2024, Hurricane Cemetery.

 

Arthur “Nick” Nicholson Jr.

March 31, 1931 – June 23, 2024

Haughton, La.

Visitation: 9 a.m. Friday, June 28, 2024, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.

Graveside service: 11 a.m., immediately following visitation, Fillmore Cemetery.

 

Charles “Bo” Thomas Blackwood

Oct. 23, 1940 – June 8, 2024

Homer, La.

Service: 2 p.m. Saturday, June 29, Cornerstone Church (former First UMC), Homer, 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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(Editor’s note: Law enforcement is still seeking information and clues into this shooting that happened early Saturday morning. If you have information, please contact the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-377-1515.)

By Pat Culverhouse

Webster Parish investigators continue to collect evidence and follow leads to determine facts surrounding an early morning shooting that left a local man in serious condition in a Shreveport hospital suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Sheriff Jason Parker said the incident occurred just before 3:30 a.m. Saturday on LA Hwy. 531, a short distance south of the I-20 overpass.

“From what we’ve learned so far, the victim is a black male in his early twenties who was walking north along Highway 531 headed toward a truck stop,” Parker said. “Evidence shows a vehicle pulled up and multiple shots were fired, striking the victim several times.”

Parker said the nearest parish units were in the Doyline area at the time of the shooting, responding to a serious domestic disturbance.  He said the Minden Police Department was called to lend assistance.

“The first MPD officer to arrive found the victim lying in a wood line alongside the road with several gunshot wounds,” he said. “Minden officers assisted with life-saving measures until EMS arrived.”

Parker said the victim was air-lifted from the scene and transported to Shreveport. His condition remains unknown.

“Our detectives collected a lot of evidence from the scene and we’re getting more information,” Parker said. “Because of the location of the shooting and the proximity to I-20, there are several scenarios we’re investigating.”

Parker said he appreciated the assistance provided by the MPD.

“We knew our units would take some time to get to the scene, and the response of their officers was critical in locating the victim quickly and getting him the medical attention he needed,” Parker said. “They preserved the crime scene until we could take over the investigation.”

Parker said identification of the victim is being withheld until more information can be gathered and a possible motive is determined. He is also asking the public for assistance.

“If anyone has information relating to this incident, we urge them to call and talk to our detectives,” Parker said. “We assure them they will remain anonymous. Even the smallest bit of information could be a big help.”

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According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, a heat advisory will remain in place through Tuesday evening, perhaps longer.

Tuesday

Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 77. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Wednesday

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Southwest wind around 5 mph.a

Wednesday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74.

Thursday

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.

Thursday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 75.

* Visit your local NWS office at: https://www.weather.gov/shv

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

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

Springhill Methodist Church

6 until 8:30 p.m. June 23 – June 27, Springhill Methodist Church, 104 4th Street NW, Springhill, LA 71075, children from Kindergarten through 5th grade are invited to attend. You may register at https://tinyurl.com/SMCVBS24 . For more information, email djr498cr74@gmail.com . Camp Firelight VBS is based on Psalm 56:3  “Whenever I’m afraid, I put my trust in you.”  This theme will focus on trusting God to go with us, to lead the way, to share wisdom, to give us peace, and to spark joy.  There will be music, crafts, science and recreational activities related to the Bible Theme.

North Acres Baptist Church

6 until 8:30 p.m. June 24 – 28, PreK-6th grade. Join us for VBS this year, as we discover that God’s truth never changes, everyone needs Jesus, and we learn to speak the truth in love. Adventure awaits each day as we explore Breaker Rock Beach!  “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2 Online Registration: https://nabcminden.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2328987

Beech Springs Baptist Church

9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. June 24 – 28, VBS – Keepers of the Kingdom, 4 yrs old – 6^th grade Beech Springs Baptist Church, 15910 HWY 80, Minden Register at https://beechspringsbc.myanswers.com/keepers-of-the-kingdom or thru our FB page. We are engaged in an epic battle for the hearts and minds of our youth. Every day, they’re bombarded with lies about who they are, who their Creator is, and where their salvation comes from. Thankfully, God has given his children armor to wear in this battle between truth and lies, light and darkness.

Pine Grove Methodist Church

5:30 p.m. Friday, June 28 VBS registration. 6 until 9 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 29 and 10:45 a.m. program, Sunday, June 30.

Eastside Missionary Baptist Church

6 until 8 p.m. July 8 – 12. Schools out for Summer. That means it’s VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL TIME. We’d love to have your kids SHINE with us as we learn about Jesus. Here’s a preregistration link to get a head start on the fun.  Please use this link to pre-register your children:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/16Qvm4fl3Au5s8XG9l5WEs1eQp64JfF46btSk6rFyhSw/viewform?edit_requested=true .

First Methodist Church

5 until 8 p.m. July 15-19, 903 Broadway. Kindergarten entering sixth grade. SCUBA – each day students will encounter God through a well-known story of the Bible, interacting with the text tangibly through kinetic, immersive activities. The link for First Kids is: www.facebook.com/fmcmindenkids . The link for First Methodist Church is: www.facebook.com/fmcmindenla . Church office also has registration applications.

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Stirring patriotic music and fried catfish – what could be a better way to celebrate the legacy of liberty in America, One Nation Under God?

Pastor Rev. Steve Berger and Director of Music Dr. Dan Gibbs of Minden First Methodist Church, 903 Broadway, invite the public to a special “Freedom Sunday” service June 30 at 10:30 a.m. in the church sanctuary.

“Everyone is invited to celebrate our great freedoms as a nation to worship, assemble and have free speech,” Rev. Berger said. “Join us Sunday, June 30 at 10:30 for a morning of great music and stirring narrative focused on our blessings with a great meal to follow.”

A special “Freedom Sunday Chorus” has been assembled specifically for this service, its membership consisting of the church’s Chancel Choir and guest singers from the community.  Together with live orchestra accompaniment, the Chorus will present the musical OF FAITH AND FREEDOM by Joseph Martin, featuring narrations from Scripture and from our founding fathers.

“The service,” Dr. Gibbs said, “will serve as a much-needed reminder – especially these days! — that the motto of our nation is still “In God We Trust,” and that freedom is not free!”

According to Rev. Berger, the meal is completely free – a catfish lunch catered by Hugh Wood.

“Come as you are and celebrate how God has and continues to bless these United States of America,” he said. “Parking is available on Broadway and McDonald Street, on the side of the Sanctuary. Lunch will be in the Fellowship Hall.”

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Springhill Medical Center is hiring licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to provide basic direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals. A LPN job description often includes a variety of tasks to provide assistance for injured, ill, disabled, and other patients throughout a range of different healthcare environments.

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The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has released final water grades for 951 community water systems across the state, a process that creates accountability for water systems and provides transparency for water system customers.   

Act 98 of the 2021 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature authorized the Louisiana Department of Health Safe Drinking Water Program to develop a grade for community water system accountability. This would provide for the issuance of a letter grade reflective of community water system quality and performance. LDH determines letter grades based on 7 Standards evaluating the infrastructure, accountability, and overall health risk of drinking water to consumers. 

The seven standards include: 

• Federal Water Quality 
• State Water Quality 
• Financial Sustainability 
• Operation and Maintenance 
• Infrastructure 
• Customer Satisfaction 
• Secondary Contaminants (Iron and Manganese) 

In Webster Parish, the water systems were given the following grades:  

• Bistineau Water System – received 92 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Blocker Water System – received 70 of 100 points giving them a “C” 
• Central Water System – received 79 of 100 points giving them a “C” 
• Cotton Valley Water System – received 102 points of 100 giving them an “A”  
• Cullen Water System – received 75 of 100 points giving them a “C”  
• Dixie Inn Water System – received 99 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Dixie Overland Water System – received 102 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Doyline Waterworks District 1 – received 75 of 100 points giving them a “C” 
• Dubberly Water System – received 99 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Germantown Water System – received 100 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Gilark Water System – received 84 of 100 points giving them a “B” 
• Heflin Water System – received 104 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Horseshoe Road Water System – received 79 of 100 points giving them a “C” 
• Jenkins Community Water System – received 95 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Leton Water System – received 103 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• St. of La Military Dept (Camp Minden) – received 89 of 100 points giving them a “B” 
• McIntyre Water System – received 79 of 100 points giving them a “C” 
• Midway Water System – received 80 of 100 points giving them a “B” 
• Minden Water System – received 90 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Palmetto Waterworks Inc – received 75 of 100 points giving them a “C” 
• Pleasant Valley Water System – received 89 of 100 points giving them a “B” 
• Saltworks Water System – received 94 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Sarepta Waterworks District – received 90 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Shongaloo Water System – received 100 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Sibley Water System – received 87 of 100 points giving them a “B” 
• Springhill Water System – received 85 of 100 points giving them a “B” 
• State Line Water System – received 95 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Thomasville Water System – received 100 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Union Grove Water System – received 90 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Dorcheat Acres Water System – received 95 of 100 points giving them an “A” 
• Gil-Gal Water System – received 80 of 100 points giving them a “B” 
• St. James Water System – received 90 of 100 points giving them an “A” 

All Webster Parish water systems either increased or maintained their previous grade giving in 2023 apart from Cullen Water System who decreased from a “B” to a “C.” 

An in depth look at all water system grades for Webster Parish can be found at https://ldh.la.gov/assets/oph/Center-EH/drinkingwater/Watergrade/WaterGrade-2023/Webster/index.htm 

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Mercy’s Closet at 609 Sibley Road, Minden, wants to help your child get ready for the school year.

From 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. the business will have a school uniform giveaway. No qualifying is necessary; first come, first served.

They have been collecting uniforms all year for the give-away, however, uniform donations are welcome between now and August 3.

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Receiving her oath of office for another four years is Webster Parish Clerk of Court Holli Vining. Doing the honors is Second Circuit Court of Appeal Judge Jeff Cox.

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Just a few weeks ago, LaMa Animal Rescue in Springhill made a trip to Doyline to help save 26 hoarded dogs.

According to LaMa director Michelle Lewis, it was an important, yet costly rescue.

“The hoarded dogs have cost us ten thousand dollars,” Lewis said. “That covers spays/neuters boarding dentals and vetting.”

LaMa is hosting a fundraiser from 5 until 7 p.m. Monday, July 1 at Springhill Farmers Market. $12 will buy a smoked pork loin sandwich, potato salad, bbq beans, pickle and dessert.

If you live in the south Webster area and can’t make the trek to Springhill, LaMa Animal Rescue will be more than happy to accept a donation. Please contact Lewis through the website: lamaanimalrescue.org or by email: LaMaAnimalRescue@gmail.com .

LaMa is a non-profit, volunteer-based group advocating for the many homeless, abused and neglected animals of Northwest Louisiana and the surrounding areas. Volunteers save animals from local kill shelters and work to reduce euthanasia rates.

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

Food:  Cereal, powdered milk

Household goods: king & queen sheets, towels & wash cloths, pots, pans & skillets
Toiletries: soap, deodorant, toothpaste

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 .

June 28

6 until 10 p.m. Webster Parish Boys 2 Men “Bridging the Gap” Meet & Greet. Central Community Association, Inc., 5500 Highway 531, Dubberly, La., Register by June 211. Free event; ages 9-18. For more information: Deware Jones (214) 537-0208 or dwrenjones@yahoo.com .

June 29

7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Webster Parish Boys 2 Men “Bridging the Gap” Fishing & Fun. Central Community Association, Inc., 5500 Highway 531, Dubberly, La., Register by June 211. Free event; ages 9-18. For more information: Deware Jones (214) 537-0208 or dwrenjones@yahoo.com .

June 29 & 30

UCAP Golf Tournament. Sponsored by UCAP, b1 Bank and others. Pine Hills Country Club, Minden. Sign up in the Pro Shop.

June 30

8 a.m.  Webster Parish Boys 2 Men “Bridging the Gap” Sunday Worship. Central Community Association, Inc., 5500 Highway 531, Dubberly, La., Register by June 21. Free event; ages 9-18. For more information: Deware Jones (214) 537-0208 or dwrenjones@yahoo.com .

5 p.m. 6th Annual Duck Derby Extravaganza, downtown Minden. Food vendors, face painting, jump houses, music and Duck Derby race.

August 3

10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Mercy’s Closet School Uniform Giveaway, 609 Sibley Road, Minden. No qualifying necessary. First Come, first served.

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This past week the Louisiana Legislature passed into law a bill that requires the displaying of the 10 Commandments in every public- school classroom in the state.  Our young people are trying to survive the cultural cesspool that modern American society has become and being reminded of the eternal principles of morality and faith, and encouraging respect for parents, can only benefit them.

Naturally, the atheist and “civil liberties” groups like the ACLU (which hasn’t found a conservative civil liberty to champion in decades) immediately vowed to sue arguing the display constitutes an “establishment” of religion, notwithstanding the fact that the 10 Commandments also provide the general foundation for American civil and criminal law. 

These groups quote Thomas Jefferson, that there should remain “a separation between church and state.”  Well, all that our Framers intended by the Establishment Clause was that there be no official state religion of the kind the Pilgrims fled when they settled in America.  That is all.  The Framers never intended for there to exist this outright hostility to all anotions of religion and faith in public life.  However, that’s what we have. 

Jefferson absolutely favored free exercise of religion and cited as one of his proudest accomplishments the religious freedom law he wrote for his native state of Virginia.  Jefferson opposed a mandated state religion.  Beyond that, he supported the broadest definition of religious liberty possible.

Back to the new law. 

It should be unnecessary but perhaps the way to avoid having the law struck down is by including other historical displays such as the Declaration of Independence, the Mayflower Compact, and the Northwest Ordinance.  Perhaps, the Jewish Torah and Muslim Koran as well.  By surrounding the 10 Commandments display with other religious and historical displays, it would be imbued with academic, educational, and historical value outside of any religious context.   

The current U.S. Supreme Court has been more accommodating of free exercise of religion, including the case of Kennedy v. Bremerton, the “praying football coach” who was fired from his job at a public high school after he briefly knelt after games to offer a prayer of thanks.  The Court ruled in his favor, finding that the coach had never attempted to force his players to join him, or based playing time upon player participation in the prayer.  Rather, in firing the coach the school district had unconstitutionally punished him “for engaging in a brief, quiet, personal religious observance.”  

I note that for decades the Supreme Court employed the “Lemon test” in establishment of religion cases. (Lemon v. Kurtzman). The test applies three principles: 1) Whether the “religious” action or display had a clear secular purpose. 2). Whether the primary effect of the action or display would advance or inhibit religion. 3). Whether the action or display would create an excessive government entanglement with religion. 

Let’s do a quick analysis: 

I would argue the display has a clear secular purpose in that the 10 Commandments have great historical, academic, and educational (and, depending upon how the display is prepared and posted, even artistic) significance aside from any religious connotation.  Second, I don’t think a display of the 10 Commandments in Louisiana public schools has the primary effect of advancing religion.  I think it primarily contributes to students’ education about American and world history as well as the study of the Bible as an academic pursuit.  Finally, it would not create an excessive entanglement with government because a display of this type would simply be present to be noticed or not noticed by uninterested students.  It’s no more an entanglement of government with religion than a rendition of the Mona Lisa hanging on the same school wall.

Well, the Lemon test is complicated and confusing and has now been rejected by the Supreme Court which ruled that, instead, the establishment clause “must be interpreted by ‘reference to historical practices and understandings.”  I much prefer the new standard because America has many historical practices involving faith and religion in the public square as well as the understanding that such practices are based not only on faith and religion but on our nation’s culture, history, and tradition.

Even if this new law is struck down, it nonetheless has great symbolic value in having existed in the first place.  Essentially, the new law—however long it may last—sends an unmistakable message about the values of Louisiana and what we think is important to emphasize in public education.

(Shreveport attorney, Royal Alexander, worked in D.C. in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly 8 years for two different Members of Congress from Louisiana.  He has witnessed up close several Speaker races.)

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Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is the state agency responsible for management of the state’s renewable natural resources including all wildlife and all aquatic life. The control and supervision of these resources are assigned to the department in the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, Article IX, Section 7 and in revised statutes under Title 56.

“LDWF is taking a proactive approach to guard against the introduction of invasive species upon our habitats. We recognize the impacts these animals can have on native wildlife resources and will continue our efforts to conserve, manage and protect the state’s native wildlife,” said LDWF Secretary Madison Sheahan.

Unpermitted, venomous or non-indigenous constricting snakes are considered a threat to wildlife habitat. It is the duty of LDWF to adhere to the regulations pursuant to La. R.S. 56:6(30) and La R.S. 56:632.5.1 in regard to unpermitted venomous or non-indigenous constricting snakes.

In Louisiana, it is considered unlawful to import and/or privately possess constricting snakes in excess of 8 feet or venomous snakes obtained in any manner without a permit issued by LDWF except for animals kept by animal sanctuaries, zoos, aquariums, wildlife research centers, scientific organizations, and medical research facilities.

 

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James D. Compton, 28, 700 block N. Acres Lane, Springhill; arrested June 20 by Probation and Parole officers for probation violation.

Laderion Brown, 28, 500 block Bradford, Minden; arrested June 20 by WPSO on charge of contempt of court.

Gage Michael Green, 21, 200 block Hearron Rd., Sarepta; arrested June 21 by WPSO for disturbing the peace by intoxication, simple obstruction of a highway.

Vanessa Lauco, 36, 400 block Sikes Ferry Rd., Cotton Valley; arrested June 19 by Cotton Valley PD on warrants for simple battery of infirmed, cruelty to juveniles.

Tyler Alexander Samson, 18, 700 block Rebecca St., Minden; arrested June 20 by MPD two counts simple battery. Total bond set at $1,000.

Demetrius Donelle Miller, 39, 200 block Front St., Minden; arrested June 19 by MPD for simple burglary, possession of drug paraphernalia.

Brad Warren Gordon, 34, 200 block 8th St. NW, Springhill; arrested June 19 by Springhill PD for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamine).

Demario Damon Nolan, 22, 900 block Carolina St., Minden; arrested June 21 by MPD for resisting arrest by refusing to provide identification, possession of CDS Sch. I (MDMA/Ecstasy).

Aleshia Simone Burks, 100 block Oscar Moore Rd., Dubberly; arrested June 21 by MPD for unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, battery of a dating partner.

William Blake Bailer, 31, Talton St., Minden; arrested June 24 by WpSO on outstanding warrant.

C. Allen Haynes, 47, Goodwill Rd., Minden; arrested June 23 by WPSO on outstanding warrant. Bond set at $500.

Kimberly Aaliyah Miller, 22, 100 block Abney St., Minden; arrested June 22 by WPSO on outstanding warrants for careless operation and no drivers license. Total bond set at $750.

David Marcus Cornelius, 45, 100 block Gymnasium Dr., Minden; arrested June 23 by MPD for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamine), possession CDS Sch. II (powder cocaine).

Nathaniel White, 47, 700 block Peach St., Minden; arrested June 22 by MPD for resisting officer with force or violence, violation of general speed law, driving left of center.

DeLandry Eugene Fraizer, 66, Mignon St., Minden; arrested June 22 by MPD for possession of CDS Sch. II (crack cocaine), possession of drug paraphernalia, traffic violation.

Keunda Vonsha Lard, 34, 1100 block Tillman Dr., Minden; arrested June 22 by Louisiana State Police on fugitive warrants from Bienville Parish, switched license plates.

Ira Lee Miller, 50, 400 block Front St., Minden; arrested June 24 by MPD on warrant for felony theft.

Davaris James Taran Moore, 32, 300 block Dixie St., Minden; arrested June 22 by MPD on bench warrant. Bond set $1,500 cash or $25,000 surety.

DWayne Edward Clark, 57, 100 block N. Middle St., Minden; arrested June 22 by MPD for possession CDS Sch. II (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jessie A. Sanders, 35, 100 block Memorial Park Dr., Heflin; arrested June 22 by MPD for possession of CDS Sch.II (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under suspension, traffic violation.

Montique Morris, 30, 100 block Squire St., Minden; arrested June 20 by MPD on four bench warrants. Bond set $1,200 cash.

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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Mildred Maxine Adcock

July 21, 1937 – June 20, 2024

Minden, La.

Graveside service: 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 25, 2024, Gardens of Memory, Minden, La.

 

Charles “Bo” Thomas Blackwood

Oct. 23, 1940 – June 8, 2024

Homer, La.

Service: 2 p.m. Saturday, June 29, Cornerstone Church (former First UMC), Homer, 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

Webster Parish investigators continue to collect evidence and follow leads to determine facts surrounding an early morning shooting that left a local man in serious condition in a Shreveport hospital suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Sheriff Jason Parker said the incident occurred just before 3:30 a.m. Saturday on LA Hwy. 531, a short distance south of the I-20 overpass.

“From what we’ve learned so far, the victim is a black male in his early twenties who was walking north along Highway 531 headed toward a truck stop,” Parker said. “Evidence shows a vehicle pulled up and multiple shots were fired, striking the victim several times.”

Parker said the nearest parish units were in the Doyline area at the time of the shooting, responding to a serious domestic disturbance.  He said the Minden Police Department was called to lend assistance.

“The first MPD officer to arrive found the victim lying in a wood line alongside the road with several gunshot wounds,” he said. “Minden officers assisted with life-saving measures until EMS arrived.”

Parker said the victim was air-lifted from the scene and transported to Shreveport. His condition remains unknown.

“Our detectives collected a lot of evidence from the scene and we’re getting more information,” Parker said. “Because of the location of the shooting and the proximity to I-20, there are several scenarios we’re investigating.”

Parker said he appreciated the assistance provided by the MPD.

“We knew our units would take some time to get to the scene, and the response of their officers was critical in locating the victim quickly and getting him the medical attention he needed,” Parker said. “They preserved the crime scene until we could take over the investigation.”

Parker said identification of the victim is being withheld until more information can be gathered and a possible motive is determined. He is also asking the public for assistance.

“If anyone has information relating to this incident, we urge them to call and talk to our detectives,” Parker said. “We assure them they will remain anonymous. Even the smallest bit of information could be a big help.”

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By Pat Culverhouse

Tossing an object at and engaging in a physical confrontation with a Minden police officer has resulted in a Dubberly man getting tossed into the parish jail.

Minden Chief of Police Jared McIver said 34-year-old Byron LeJordan Fizer is facing two counts of resisting a police officer with force or violence and battery of a police officer after he was restrained and arrested at a local eatery June 19.

McIver said the incident began when officers Dedrick Anderson Jr. and Logan Clingan responded to reports of a fight at Wendy’s on Homer Rd. Upon arrival, officers reportedly observed Fizer acting erratically and reportedly pushing away employees who were attempting to deescalate the situation.

“Our officers managed to get the suspect outside where he began pulling personal items from his pockets,” McIver said. “Officers observed something clutched in his hand, but he ignored several commands to release the item.”

Fizer reportedly was holding a used glass pipe, and allegedly hurled the pipe toward officers. He reportedly continued to resist and became involved in a physical altercation with one officer which led to the deployment of non-lethal force (taser) to affect his arrest.

Fizer reportedly is being held in Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center on the three felony charges. Bond reportedly has not been set.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker has officially begun his second term in office, receiving his oath of office during a swearing-in ceremony Thursday at the parish courthouse.

Parker, who missed by one day having the ceremony on his birthday, was first elected in October, 2019 and was the only sheriff in the region to run without opposition for his second term.

“It’s been a challenging four years and I’ve gained some gray hairs, but it’s been a good four years for our department,” Parker said after taking the oath administered by Second Circuit Court of Appeal Judge Jeff Cox.

Joining Parker in taking oaths of office were Chief Deputy O.H. “Hank” Haynes IV and parish Clerk of Court Holli Vining.

Parker told a group including family and friends that challenges during his first term included the COVID pandemic and hurricane declaration in the parish. Also, he said, the department mourned the loss of two deputies during the past four years.

“Hank and I are blessed every day to open our eyes and come to the office and serve the people of our parish,” Parker said. “I tell our deputies we have a sworn obligation to protect and to serve, but we have an awesome opportunity each day when we put on that badge. We want to continue to be accessible and transparent.”

Parker praised what he called the unity among agencies in the parish, a factor he said contributes to getting things done in a positive way.

“The unity in the parish, working with other agencies and other public servants, makes for a great working relationship,” he said. “That will not change.”

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Document: Minutes of the City of Minden

Location: Minden City Hall

Address: 520 Broadway, Minden, La. 71055

Date/Time: June 17, 2024, 8 a.m.

The following are the minutes of a special session of Minden City Council as recorded by Ashlee Drake, Administrative Assistant to Mayor Nick Cox of Minden. If you have any questions, please contact Minden City Hall at 318-377-2144.

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Friday

Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 73. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Saturday

Sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Calm wind.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 74.

Sunday

Sunny and hot, with a high near 98.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 76.

Monday

Sunny and hot, with a high near 98.

Monday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 77.

Tuesday

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 96.

* Information courtesy of National Weather Service.

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Louisiana Music Hall of Fame free entertainment. Some of the greatest sports stars Louisiana has ever produced. Beautiful fireworks, with a sports music bed.

It’s free, this evening, on the Natchitoches riverbank stage, in a cornerstone event of the 2024 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration.

The Rockin’ River Fest Concert, presented by Rapides Regional Medical Center, runs from 6 p.m. to 10:30. You are invited to join the party. At no charge!

At 9:15, members of the LSHOF Class of 2024 will be introduced on stage, and celebrated with 10-minute fireworks show set to sports-themed music over Cane River Lake. Then music resumes for another hour.

There will be food and beverage vendors on the riverfront. Front Street’s always fun watering holes/restaurants are just a few steps away.

It’s family friendly. A free interactive kid’s zone presented by Louisiana Propane Dealers under the Church Street Bridge will include basketball, football, golf, and science games for all ages to enjoy.

Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs have been a staple of the concert since it began in 2018, but now as Louisiana Music Hall of Fame members, the popular group gets to headline the musical card. The Moondogs have entertained across the south and are set for another July 3-4 gig on Orange Beach during the Independence Day festivities at the Gulf Coast’s unofficial capital.

Cranking up the party this evening at 6 will be Coteau Grove, an energetic and entertaining south Louisiana band with a wide range of sounds and its own Louisiana Music Hall of Fame recognition.

For a preview, visit the bands’ websites – TheMoondogs.com and CoteauGrove.com – and see and hear what’s going to be on the riverbank stage free of charge this evening in Natchitoches.

If you want to beat the summer heat and enjoy a tasty collection of Louisiana foods and specialty refreshments, there are just a few $100 tickets remaining to join the VIP Taste of Tailgating presented by Hancock Whitney. That party is headquartered inside Mama’s Oyster House, The Blues Room and Papa’s Bar and Grill at 608 Front Street.  To get set up, call LSHOF operations manager Ronnette Pellegrin at 318-332-8539 – none will be on sale this evening.

That party runs from 7-10 p.m. in the air-conditioned comfort of Mama’s Oyster House and Blues Room that will provide exclusive access to the 2024 Induction Class.

Saturday’s Round Table Lunch at Riverside Reserve also still has a handful of seats available – call Mrs. Pellegrin at 318-332-8539.

Saturday evening’s 2024 Induction Reception and Ceremony are already sold out. A crowd of nearly 800 patrons will attend the ceremony.

You can watch live coverage free beginning at 6 Saturday evening on the LPB.org website.

PHOTO – attached

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