By Pat Culverhouse

Following weeks of deliberation and discussion, Dixie Inn has selected a new Chief of Police. Mayor Donna Hoffoss announced Don Myers will officially assume duties Friday as the town’s top law enforcement officer.

Myers, a Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy since 2013, is no stranger to Dixie Inn. For the past five years, he has supervised a Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center work crew in the town.

“We are fortunate to get someone who is familiar with the past circumstances surrounding our police department and the people of our town,” Mayor Hoffoss said. “The council members and I believe we’ve chosen the right person to provide the protection our residents need and deserve.”

Myers, who will continue his duties with the Sheriff’s Office, is a graduate of the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office Training Academy and is POST certified. He has spent his Webster Sheriff’s Office career at BDCC.

Dixie Inn council members and Mayor Hoffoss had spent the past few weeks considering whether or not to maintain a police force in the small town after the former chief resigned in May.

But, after considering their options and talking with other agencies about possible law enforcement assistance, the decision to hire a part-time chief and officers was reached.

“Our plans are to hire up to four part-time officers in addition to Chief Myers,” Hoffoss said. “I believe he will provide the leadership to give us the a very good police department.” 

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By Josh Beavers

One particular thought comes to mind when people hear the name Robert Holloway. His smile.

“Smiley.” That was what Mr. Holloway was called. A grin always adorned his kind face. And that smile revealed what was in his heart.

“He was one of the best men I ever knew,” longtime friend Roger Grubbs told me of Mr. Holloway. “I never heard anyone say a bad word about him, and I never heard him say a bad word about anyone else.”

Sentiments such as those are being shared all over social media following Smiley’s recent passing. The celebration of his life makes us all aware how we can use the time we are given to make a positive impact on the lives around us.

In his more than 70 years of life, Smiley touched so many souls. He is remembered for more than his smile. He is remembered for his impact on young people.

Graduating from Minden High in 1968, Smiley went on to become a Northwestern State Demon, and following earning his degree, he moved into education – first as a coach and history teacher at Doyline and then on to Sibley/Lakeside. He taught. He coached. And in the last years of his time in the school house, he moved into the guidance counselor’s office. It was there where he was able to really assist young people as they used his words of wisdom, guidance, and heart to make those final and most important decisions before they left the halls as Warrior grads and out into the real world.

“He was dedicated to the kids,” said newly retired Lakeside guidance counselor Ann Holomon. She took over for Smiley upon his retirement. “He was just a kind man,” she said. “That’s what I know of him. His kindness.”

Following retirement, he went on to serve a term on the Webster Parish School Board, where he shaped policy to help children throughout the parish. He was a public servant through and through.

Longtime coaching legend David Kidd wanted me to include this tribute to his friend:

“Robert Holloway was not only a coaching colleague but a good friend. He and Butch Williams started the track program at Sibley High in the 80’s….a program that would go on to two state runner-up finishes and numerous district track and field championships in both boys and girls divisions. He loved all sports, but track and field was his love. He also coached a state runner-up in cross country. I never saw Robert get angry, but if he did he would defuse it with his trademark smile….hence his nickname, “Smiley”. He loved to eat, and prided himself on scouting new places around the state when he traveled to sporting events. He was a Southern Living food critic before Southern Living. His reviews of these gastronomical establishments were always right on. He was a man of integrity who lived life to the fullest. He was a Northwestern Demon, but this La Tech Bulldog will not hold that against him. He gave me memories of funny, sometimes hilarious moments.”

While he spent his days in the schoolhouse and out on the athletic fields, Smiley spent his evenings and Saturdays behind (and in front of) the camera.

For more than 20 years, he and his friend Mr. Grubbs filmed hundreds of Minden High sporting events. Beginning with Tide football games, they would branch out to film every sport for the Tide. Then on Saturday mornings, they would host a local cable sports program with highlights of the previous night’s games. They would interview the school’s coaches as the highlights played and comments were made about the good and what could be done better.

Their filming endeavor soon branched out to little league sports, and the two would spend three to four hours a night out at Babb Park filming games for broadcast.

“We did all that so people who were sick or just couldn’t make it out would be able to see the games,” Mr. Grubbs said.

Soon, they were filming Minden High graduations, beauty pageants, and other events all for the kids and parents. All for the memories to be shared and kept. Cherished for all time as all our days go by.

They filmed weddings. They filmed it all. If there was a moment of joy, Smiley and Grubbs were there to capture those memories for everyone.

“That’s who Smiley was,” Mr. Grubbs said.

And what about that name? What about Smiley? Where did such a kind nickname come from?

“Well, Smiley loved sports, but he just wasn’t that talented,” Mr. Grubbs said with a laugh. “He became a freshman and wanted to be involved so he became a distance runner for the track team.”

On the first day of practice, the coach had the distance runners strike out all the way to Caney Lake and back.

“That was a bit of ways,” Mr. Grubbs said. “And when they got back they were all laid out and about dying. The coach comes over and tells them how out of shape they were. Then he looks over at Robert and there’s this big grin on his face even though he was about to fall over. The coach said ‘look at ole Smiley over there. He’s doing ok’.”

And from then on, Robert Holloway was Smiley.

A smile goes a long way. People remember how you make them feel. That’s always been true and it always will. And Robert “Smiley” Holloway made a lot of people feel good.

And for that, he will always be remembered.

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Thursday

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 79. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Thursday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. Calm wind.

Friday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Friday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70.

Saturday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 88.

Saturday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Sunday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.

* Information provided by National Weather Service.

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Springhill Medical Center is hiring nurse practitioners for Doctors Clinic. NPs are trained to assess patient needs, order and interpret diagnostic and laboratory tests, diagnose disease, prescribe medications and formulate treatment plans.

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By Paige Gurgainers

Greg Lawson of Ringgold finally had his day in court Thursday, July 18, after District Judge Rick Warren denied a motion for a new trial the previous Monday. Lawson has now been sentenced to 45 years in prison without the possibility of parole for attempted second-degree murder. 

Lawson spent more than 30 years on the run facing charges of second-degree murder following an altercation that turned violent outside of a Ringgold grocery store in 1990. The victim, Seth Garlington, suffered four gunshot wounds, including one to the hand and two other superficial wounds. He was transported to Schumpert Medical Center’s intensive-care unit and later released. 

Lawson was booked on a charge of attempted second-degree murder, but was soon released on a bond of $50,000. He was later indicted on 12 charges in 1990 by a Bienville Parish Grand Jury, including aggravated assault, aggravated criminal damage, attempted second-degree murder, criminal damage to motor vehicles, attempted manslaughter, battery with a dangerous weapon, illegal use of a firearm and disturbing the peace. Lawson pleaded innocent and was released on a bond of $175,000. 

The trial was moved to Claiborne District Court in Homer due to pretrial publicity in Bienville Parish.

It only took the 12-person jury half an hour to find Greg Max Lawson guilty, but Lawson was nowhere to be found. According to reports, while the jury was deliberating, Lawson who was free on bond simply walked out of the courtroom.

In September 2023 a tip received by the FBI – New Orleans division eventually led to the arrest of Lawson in Mexico. Deputies with the Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office traveled to Houston, Texas to pick him up and book him into the Claiborne Parish Detention Center.

Garlington, the victim, was present at Thursday’s hearing. He provided a written statement but chose not to read it himself. In this statement he mentioned that he did forgive Lawson. 

Lawson also made a statement, as well as his brother, both urging for leniency. 

The judge only considered the charge of second-degree murder while sentencing and made the decision not to include Lawson’s 3 decades as a wanted fugitive as a factor. 

At this time Lawson will remain at the Claiborne Parish Detention Center and will be transferred at a later date. 

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Smokey the Bear and a Ranger were in attendance at all local Discovery Camp locations, including Springhill. The ranger read the campers a story about Smokey’s origin story as well as his 5 Rules Of Preventing Wildfires and encouraged the campers to share what they learned with family and friends.

 Each branch manager presented their campers participation certificates (for at least five books read), completion medals and either a Magnetic Tile Kit (for younger campers) or National Geographic Kit (for the older campers) if they completed the program (at least 50 books read). Both types of kits were sponsored by Impact Oil And Gas. After the campers were awarded, they took photos with Smokey the Bear and enjoyed pizza.

Webster Parish Libraries branch managers are:

South Branches party held at Minden Branch:

Kaitlyn Taylor (Minden Branch)

Dedra Harris (Heflin Branch)

Troyanne Williamson (Sibley Branch)

Kelly Burge (Doyline Branch)

North Branches party held at Springhill Branch:

Cassidy Duck (Springhill Branch)

Carolyn McLemore (Cotton Valley Branch)

Kay Bissell (Sarepta Branch)

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By Jessica Gorman

A couple of weeks ago, I received a phone call from someone looking for information about the 8^th Louisiana Infantry, Company G, also known as the Minden Blues. In particular, he was looking for information about a man named Raymond Rodriguez.

The Minden Blues were organized in Minden in April 1861. There are many familiar names among the members of the company including Sandlin, Lewis, Pratt, Webb, Crichton, Berry, Murrell, and Wren to name a few. My own distant cousin, William O. Garrison, was a member of the company. He lost an arm after being wounded at the Battle of Malvern Hill.

The name Raymond Rodriguez was in no way familiar to me. My curiosity was piqued. The inquirer had shared that Rodriguez was reportedly born in Mexico and he had not yet been able to find what happened to him after the war. I shared with him the information we have at the museum pertaining to the Minden Blues, but disappointingly there was nothing that stood out as particularly helpful in regards to the identity of Raymond Rodriguez.

Wednesday of last week, an update came via email. Much progress had been made in the search for Raymond Rodriguez. This is what he found. It seems that Rodriguez came to Minden sometime before the Civil War where he was reported to be a laborer. He then enlisted in the Confederate Army. Records indicate that he was seriously wounded at Bristoe Station on 27 August 1862. By November, he had returned to duty. In May of 1863, he was captured at Fredricksburg and then captured again at Wilderness, Virginia in May 1864.  After the war, he returned to what was then Claiborne Parish where he married Mary Ann Boepple on 28 November 1866.

The Boepple name is recognizable as one of our local German families. They emigrated from Wurttemberg, Germany in the 1840s. The marriage of Raymond Rodriguez to Mary Ann Boepple indicates that Rodriguez wasn’t someone who was just passing through. He returned to the area, married, and the couple had several children before moving on to Texas in the 1870s. It is there that Raymond Rodriguez died 13 January 1888 in Angelina County. He is buried in the Poland Cemetery at Zavalla.

Members of the Boepple family remained in Webster Parish and descendants still live here today. I share this story in hopes that maybe someone out there may have some information to help shed a little more light on Raymond Rodriguez. If you can help, please email me at dorcheatmuseum@yahoo.com or call the museum at (318)377-3002.

(Jessica Gorman is the Executive Director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Webster Parish Historian, and an avid genealogist.)

 

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WEBSTER PARISH DISTRICT COURT DOCKET – July 26, 2024

BARTON, DAVID

T076724 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*NP

BENNETT, JOSEPH VINSON

T076824 Operating a Vehicle Without an Inspection Certificate

T076824A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment LSP

*Pass 8/30

Notice sent 7/16

BERTRAND, WENDY JO

T076924 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

T076924A Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

AT Arraignment LSP

*Single vehicle crash

BLACKMON, RONALD LEE

T076423 Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

T076423A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT For Further Disposition LSP

*OC 5/31

BLACKMON, RONALD LEE

T078521 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT For Further Disposition WPSD

*OC 5/31

BROWN, JEREMY SCOTT

T077024 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*93/70

CHARLES, SCOTT A

T063723A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT For Further Disposition WPSD

*OC 4/19

CHARLES, SCOTT A

T068522A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT For Further Disposition WPSD

*OC 4/19

CUNNINGHAM, TATUM BROOKE

T077124 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*87/70

G/A

DALE, ALEXIS KIYOLA MIKAL

T022024A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

*OC 4/19

DAVIS, DARRYL L

T077224 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*74/55

G/A

DAVIS, VICTORIA

T077324 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*71/55

G/A

FOSHEE, NOAH A

T076524 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

AT Arraignment WPSD

GENTRY, JR, ROBERT

T077424 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*75/55

F/A

GIBSON, DYLAN TODD

T077524 Improper Driving Left Of Center

AT Arraignment LSP

GILL, CRYSTAL

T016924 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

T016924A Improper Child Restraint

T016924B Operating A Vehicle Without Proper Required Equipment

AT Arraignment LSP

*RCBW if present

GILL, CRYSTAL

T105523 Speeding 25 & OVER

T105523A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment LSP

*RCBW if present

GRAVES, ORIN

T076624 Operating A Vehicle With An Expired Driver’s License

AT Arraignment WPSD

GRAY, JAMES R

T077624 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

JENKINS, RODNEY BERNARD

T077724 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment LSP

JOHNSON, JACARA MARGARET

T077824 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*88/70

G/A

LANCE, SHAWNA LYNN

T117323 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

LARD, KEUNDA VONSHA

T079924 Failure to Use Safety Belt

T079924A Switched License Plates

AT Arraignment LSP

LILES, LINDSAY A

T077924 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

AT Arraignment LSP

*Crash

MCKNIGHT, VALARIE MARIE

T078024 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*76/55

F/A

Notice sent 7/17

MORGAN, BRENDAVION W

T078124 Speeding 25 & OVER

AT Arraignment LSP

*80/55

QUARLES, TERENCE JEROME

T038724 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment LSP

*OC 4/19

RATCLIFF-ROGERS, ESHA

T078224 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*90/70

REDDITT, TRACY FITZGERALD

T078324 Speeding 11-15 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*69/55

F/A

TALBERT, RICHARD KEVIN

T026524 Improper Lane Usage

T026524A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

AT Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

THOMAS, DENZIL J

T078424 Failure to Use Safety Belt

AT Arraignment LSP

VAUGHN, JR, FRED MARSHALL

T078524 Speeding 16-24 MPH

AT Arraignment LSP

*77/55

Pass to 8/30

WILLIAMS, TREYVON DEMAREA

T028924 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

AT Arraignment LSP

*OC 4/19

Crash

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As the upcoming school year is approaching, it is important to have plenty of healthy snack options available. A significant portion of kids daily calories come from snacks, so it is important to make sure nutrient rich foods are always available. For healthy growth and development, make fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat/fat-free dairy products the primary choices.

Do not forget, in addition to nourishing bodies, snacks provide an opportunity to practice healthy eating habits. Here are some simple 100 calorie or less ideas below. 

Fruits

• 1 small banana
• 1 medium apple
• ¼ cup raisins
• 1 cup whole strawberries
• ½ cup canned fruit cocktail in juice (not syrup)
• ½ cup orange juice

Vegetables

• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
• 2 cups raw mixed veggies with 2 tablespoons fat-free dressing
• 12 baby carrots
• 18 small celery sticks
• 1 cup raw cauliflower
• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable juice

Breads, Cereals, Rice, and Pasta

• ½ cup oat circles cereal
• 2 graham cracker squares
• 3 cups air-popped popcorn
• ½ whole-wheat English muffin with jelly
• 4 whole-wheat crackers, unsalted
• 2 brown rice and multigrain rice cakes

Fat-free or Low-fat Milk, Cheese, and Yogurt

• 6 ounces cup fat-free plain yogurt
• ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese 1 cup fat-free milk
• ½ cup fat-free pudding
• ½ cup fat-free frozen yogurt
• 1-ounce low-fat cheddar cheese

Other Snacks

• 1 large hardboiled egg
• 8 baked tortilla chips with salsa
• 10 almonds

Shakera Williams, DrHSc, MPH, Assistant Extension Agent, Nutrition and Community Health, (Flavors of Health, SNAP-Ed, CDC-HOP) Webster Parish Chair Webster and Claiborne parishes

The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.

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BATON ROUGE, LA – The Louisiana Legislature announced recently that it has contracted with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in order to perform a comprehensive assessment of the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD).

Earlier this year, Governor Jeff Landry issued an executive order mandating the optimization of DOTD’s operations. The order requires DOTD Secretary Joe Donahue to submit a comprehensive plan for the Department by January 15, 2025. To ensure Secretary Donahue has all necessary information, the Louisiana Coalition to Fix Our Roads (LCFOR) met with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to provide the industry engagement portion of the DOTD reform assessment. 

“As the legislative bodies responsible for overseeing and ensuring funding for DOTD, we believe it is crucial to be deeply involved in this process,” said Senate President Cameron Henry. “Legislators are closest to the people, and it is our duty to engage now to ensure DOTD’s future success.”

“Our members are dedicated to getting this right, and we would be remiss to not fully engage in this process to reform and restructure DOTD,” said Speaker of the House Phillip DeVillier. “We look forward to collaborating closely with members of both chambers, LCFOR, and Secretary Donahue to develop a workable plan that addresses the Department’s needs and positions it for future success.”

Governor Jeff Landry, who initiated these efforts, commended both industry and the legislature for their involvement.

“The collaboration between private industry, both chambers of the legislature, and my office to address this issue is a positive sign for Louisiana, and a harbinger of success,” Governor Landry stated. “We are committed to improving DOTD’s operations and rebuilding our state’s infrastructure.”

“LCFOR members have diligently worked to identify pain points across various sectors and stakeholder groups that interact with DOTD,” said Erich Ponti, LCFOR President. “We appreciate the opportunity to provide BCG thorough analysis and feedback to address core issues.”

BCG’s assessment phase is scheduled to conclude in early fall, allowing Secretary Donahue time to review the recommendations and develop his comprehensive plan by the January 15, 2025, deadline.

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

July 26-27

Friday: 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Pack the Bus will be held at Walmart in Minden. Saturday: 8 a.m. until noon at Walmart in Springhill. Hosted by Webster Parish School Board.

July 29

Webster Parish New Teacher Breakfast, Webster Parish public schools.

August 2-3

8 p.m. nightly, Pete Colvin Memorial Rodeo, Jack Batton Arena, 413 Whitlock St.,

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.

11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Victory Park, First Responder/Teacher Community Giveback. Hotdog plates today’s heroes.

August 4

3 until 6 p.m., 16th Annual Back To School Bash supply drive, Webster Junior High School, Minden. For more information, contact Ursula Hillary, 377-7052.

August 5

Glenbrook School New Teacher Breakfast.

August 6

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Lunch & Learn, discussion about scams. RSVP for free lunch: 318-377-4434.

August 10

10 a.m. until 1 p.m., Bayou Pots Dutch Oven Cooking, Lake Bistineau State Park, Doyline.

6 p.m. St. Jude Singing, Eastside Missionary Baptist Church. Tickets: $15 in advance; $20 at door. All proceeds benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

7 p.m. Piney Woods Jamboree at CAC building in Springhill. Special Guest will be Stephen Pride brother of Charlie Pride. Front row seats $15; General Admission $10.

August 24

W.H.O. annual three-man scramble at Springhill Country Club. Check whoofnorthwebster.org for more information.

September 9

6 until 8 p.m. Dorcheat Historic Association Museum Annual Fundraiser Gala, 116 Pearl Street, Minden.

September 14

Cruisin’ and Groovin’ Downtown Minden, Vintage Car Club of Minden

6:30 until 11 p.m., Krewe of Nemesis, Coronation in the Courtyard, Easley Studios Courtyard, 105 Pearl Street, Minden.

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Jarrod Stoute, 38, 800 block Claiborne St., Minden; arrested July 23 by MPD, charged with two counts second degree battery and simple criminal damage to property.

Michael Tabrazio Gipson II, 28, 1100 block 5th St., Springhill; arrested July 22 by WPSO on traffic violations, on warrant from MPD for disturbing the peace/fighting.

Anthony Watts, 37, 600 block Constable St., Minden; arrested July 21 by MPD for hit and run, DWI first offense, driving under suspension, resisting an officer, traffic violations.

Ronnie Hemphill, Jr., 35, 100 block Pine St., Minden; arrested July 21 by MPD for possession of CDS Sch. I (synthetic marijuana), on fugitive warrant from Probation and Parole in Bossier Parish, traffic violation.

Shondreka Daniel McGlothen, 30, 700 block West St., Minden; arrested July 23 by MPD for theft, resisting an officer/failure to identify, misrepresentation during booking, injuring public records, on active bench warrant.

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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Johnnie Faye Sims

Nov. 7, 1960 – July 23, 2024

Sarepta, La.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, July 25, 2024, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Funeral service: 2 p.m. Friday, July 26, 2024,  Bailey Funeral Home.

Burial: Springhill Cemetery.

Julia E. Shively

May 21, 1949 – July 21, 2024

Bienville Parish

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, July 26, 2024, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Graveside service: 2 p.m. Saturday, July 27, 2024, Liberty Hill Cemetery.

Margaret Elizabeth Coleman

Jan. 19, 1944 – July 21, 2024

Minden/Homer

Graveside service: 10 a.m. Thursday, July 25, 2024, Arlington Cemetery, Homer, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

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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Sometime after 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 23, Webster Parish Superintendent of Schools Johnny Rowland confirmed the passing of Assistant Superintendent Kevin Washington. Washington was a long-time employee of the Webster Parish School system and a minister. More information will be published as it becomes available.

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By Pat Culverhouse

After months of serving as interim, Robert Smart will now serve his first term as Mayor of Sibley.

Smart was unopposed in seeking the mayor’s seat and will now move on to a new chapter of public service after 25 years as an alderman in his community. Smart was named interim mayor following the death of long-time mayor Jimmy Williams.

“I am grateful to the citizens of Sibley for having the faith in me to lead our town for the next four years,” Smart said. “I’ve been in the town government 25 years and have always been willing to help at all times.”

Smart said his office will have an open door policy to better serve the residents of Sibley.

Several projects have been on the books in Sibley and Smart said those will continue to be pursued.

“We have the Weatherton Rd. Project that will happen before the end of 2024 and we have signed contracts for the Saltworks water system phase two and three. This will be completed by mid-2025.”

Applications have also been submitted for additional water wells and water main extension, he said.

“It is my honor to serve the people for the next four years. Thanks to everyone for their trust in me, and God bless,” Smart said.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Minden city police officers are investigating a string of weekend vehicle burglaries in neighborhoods, and Chief Jared McIver says it’s a crime that’s frustrating to the victims and challenging to officers.

It’s also a crime where the average citizen can take steps that may hinder or even prevent vehicle break-ins and property thefts, the Chief said.

“The best rule is to assume that every night someone is going to try to break into your vehicle,” McIver said. “If I was to put out a mass alert that tonight someone was going to break into your vehicle or steal your property, I believe everyone would lock their vehicles and secure all their possessions.”

No neighborhood is immune from potential thefts, and unlocked vehicles seem to be the favorite targets of what McIver calls “crimes of opportunity.”  That’s because little effort and even less time is required to remove valuables.

“They’re looking for something easy, something to grab and go,” he said. “When they find a vehicle that’s unlocked, they can be in and out and gone in just a matter of seconds.”

Thieves aren’t fond of breaking windows to make entrance, but they’re willing to take a chance if they see something inside a vehicle that will bring quick cash, McIver said.

“Even if you do lock your vehicle doors, I wouldn’t recommend leaving anything visible inside that a thief believes he can sell,” he said. “Firearms or jewelry, or cash in a console would be a reason for them to take the risk of alerting a homeowner.”

McIver said some auto burglaries are the work of juveniles who may be trying to gain favor with gangs. Kids, he said, will break into a vehicle, steal a gun and their first thought is to sell it to an out-of-town gang member for quick cash.

But, he pointed out, while the incidents of such thefts involving juveniles seems to be on the rise, it’s not always the youngsters who are doing the planning.

“Adults have figured out our juvenile problem. They know there’s no space for holding them. Adults hire juveniles to commit the crimes and tell them all that will happen if they’re caught is to be placed in the custody of parents or guardians,” McIver said. “Juveniles are a revolving door and it’s not the fault of police, judges or prosecutors.”

In addition to keeping vehicles locked, whether it’s at the store or at home, McIver said residents should also keep other possessions locked inside at night.

“We would encourage people to take all their possessions out of the yard at night, especially things like tools, lawn equipment and bicycles,” he said. “It should become a habit, just like locking the doors to your home at night. We encourage people to get into a routine.”

People should also remember that it’s not just local thieves who may be looking for an easy score, McIver said.

“We have seen some from out of town and out of state come through here, riding around and marking things they see in yards…things that are quick flips for cash,” he said. “They will also be looking for open garage doors, trying to see if people store lots of property there. Then they will come back late at night or very early in the morning.”

McIver said there is a tool available to all homeowners that could help prevent thefts, and could also be a major aid to law enforcement.

“Door cameras and security cameras could be a deterrent and also a benefit to law enforcement,” he said. “Neighborhood cameras are great. If a thief is wearing a mask or a hoodie, we might not see a face but there is so much more evidence that might be obtained.”

Camera footage could help investigators establish a timeline of the theft and even provide information on the perpetrator’s height, weight, body type, clothing or other evidence. 

“Cameras might capture a suspicious vehicle or something recognizable like a tattoo or a specific type of shoe. Some have audio, and we might pick up a name or some useful information,” McIver said.

McIver’s has a valuable piece of advice to residents that targets individual safety. He referred to an incident in a nearby city where a juvenile car burglar shot and killed a homeowner who tried to confront thieves.

“Call us quickly if you hear or see this happening. Our officers can be almost anywhere in this city in less than five minutes, sometimes quicker,” he said. “Let us do our part, because confronting someone is a major thing, even for police.”

McIver said officers are well trained and have a lot more options including non-lethal force.

“We want to catch that person as badly as you want them caught. If they try to run, we have K9s who can certainly run faster than the thief. We don’t arrive with lights and sirens to alert them, we want the element of surprise. We arrive quietly and quickly,” he said.

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Wednesday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Wednesday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. Calm wind.

Thursday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Thursday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68.

Friday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82.

Friday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69.

Saturday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 88.

* Information provided by National Weather Service.

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A podiatrist — officially known as a doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) — is trained to treat issues in the foot, ankle, and lower leg.

Dr. Phuoc Bui is a foot and ankle specialist who is also trained in Minimally Invasive Surgery to correct bunions, which are a misalignment of the bone at the big toe. Bunions are one of the most common foot problems people face today.  Bunions are often painful and can often drastically change the shape of your foot, therefore limiting your daily activities. 

What causes a bunion? “It’s usually caused by flat footedness,” Dr. Bui noted. “It’s the body’s way to return our bodies to their normal stance. We think the bunion grows to give the flat-footed person more stability.”

According to Dr. Bui, bunions are only treated based on symptoms. Some people have large bunions that don’t cause any ill effects. Some have small bunions that are more painful.

Dr. Bui performs his Minimally Invasive procedures at Minden Medical Center, where he uses x-rays, to show in still-life what needs to be done inside the lower foot as the surgery takes place. Instead of one long 3” to 5” incision, three to four tiny incisions are made using image guidance.

“I was introduced to the Minimally Invasive procedure in my senior year of residency. I liked it immediately because I didn’t like the long incision that was required in the traditional bunion repair,” Dr. Bui said, speaking from his Foot and Ankle Clinic on West Union Street. “Sometimes, the bunion heals fine, but the incision gives you more pain.”

Other than smaller incisions, why is the Minimally Invasive procedure a preferred method of bunion repair? In the traditional repair, the patient cannot walk for six to eight weeks. “But you can walk on that foot immediately, using a boot,” Dr. Bui assured. “So Minimally Invasive surgery creates shorter recovery time, less pain, smaller scars, and faster return to normal function. It’s a great system to use, especially if you want to get back on your feet in four weeks. Bones heal fine…they are very predictable how they heal.”

Sometimes, Minimally Invasive Surgery is not possible, if the bunion is too large, or if the patient has extreme arthritis.

The actual Minimally Invasive Surgical procedure lasts 30 minutes to an hour. Dissolvable sutures are used, so the patient doesn’t have to return to have them removed. In fact, after two follow-ups, Dr. Bui doesn’t have to see the patient again. “Yeah, we follow up two weeks, a month, three months…then no news is good news. If there are no problems…why come back?” Dr. Bui asked. And pain medicine is not always required. Most people take ibuprofen.

Today, Dr. Bui sees patients at his West Union clinic, but he also does rounds at nursing homes and assisted living facilities in Minden and Bossier City. “It saves the patients the stress of coming to the office,” Dr. Bui remarked. In July, he started seeing patients at The Columns at Germantown, the former Savannah Court in Minden.

Special training was required before Dr. Bui could perform the Minimally Invasive Surgery for bunion repair. He took that training in Naples, Florida.

Dr. Bui attended medical school at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine in Independence, Ohio and did his podiatric surgery residency at TriHealth Bethesda North Hospital in Cincinnati. He is board certified in foot and rear foot/ankle surgery with the American Podiatric Medicine Association (APMA) and is professionally affiliated with the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS).

Dr. Bui and his wife, Huyen, are the parents of two children, a two-year-old, and a seven-year-old, who attends Glenbrook. The family resides in Minden. Huyen is a nurse practitioner who is working on a specialty in psychiatry. Phuoc and Huyen both grew up in Dodge City, Kansas. She moved away, but the two always kept in touch. When not caring for others, Dr. Bui enjoys working in his yard and spending time with the family.

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Monday, members of the Project Reclaim Youth Leadership Council partnered with Food for the Soul and served hot dogs, chips, soda and water to citizens visiting UCAP (United Christian Assistance Program). Service to others is leadership in action!

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Notice is hereby given that the City of Minden will receive sealed bids as follows:

Monday, August 5, 2024, 9 a.m.

Bids will be accepted until the dates and times specified and will be publicly opened and read aloud at City of Minden City Hall Conference Room, 520 Broadway, Minden, Louisiana 71055. Please find bid-related documents and place electronic bids at http://www.BidExpress.com. 

Bids received after the date and times of opening will not be considered. The City of Minden reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Please See Attached/Download below.

/s/ Melaney Langford
Director of Finance

/s/ Nick Cox
Mayor of Minden

7/10, 7/17, 7/24

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Louisiana Supreme Court Justice James T. “Jimmy” Genovese was introduced Tuesday in Natchitoches as the 21st president of Northwestern State University. The event is archived on the university website, nsula.edu, and the Facebook/NorthwesternStateUniversity page.

Since the retirement of longtime President Dr. Randall J. Webb in 2014, in each of the following presidential searches, the NSU Alumni Association has endorsed a candidate. After the recent semi finalist interviews, the Association’s board of directors called a special meeting to discuss and voted to endorse the finalist.

Traditionally, the Alumni Association president participates on the search committee which gives us a line of sight into the entire search process. Current Alumni Association President Leah Sherman Middlebrook of Bossier City served in that role in this search.

“The following resolution shows our strong support for the new president. We are excited about his vision and leadership,” she said.

A Resolution of Endorsement by the Northwestern State University Alumni Association of The Honorable James Genovese, J.D., for the Position of President of Northwestern State University;

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Northwestern State University Alumni Association has reviewed and evaluated the finalists selected by the ULS NSU Presidential Search Committee for the position of President of Northwestern State University in connection with the search for this position which is being conducted by the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System;

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Northwestern State University Alumni Association believe that the qualifications and credentials possessed by the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., place him in a position to be the best choice to serve as the next President of Northwestern State University, for reasons to include:

1.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., has a distinguished record of accomplishment and demonstrated leadership skills at all of his levels of public service for over four decades, including his current tenure as Justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court;

2.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., has a leadership style that is collaborative, consultative, open, and transparent, balanced by a record of strong leadership and a willingness to make tough decisions;

3.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., has an appreciation and understanding that the interests of the students are paramount;

4.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., possesses impeccable integrity;

5.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., has an appreciation of the values and objectives of our alma mater which includes a dedication to quality teaching and scholarship, as well as a commitment to enhance the academic profile and reputation of the university;

6.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., recognizes the importance of attracting, recruiting, and developing excellent administrators, and a commitment to building a strong, collaborative leadership team;

 

7.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., has a commitment to recruit and retain a highly qualified faculty;

8.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., has an appreciation and understanding of the unique quality of life issues for a Northwestern student, including an appreciation for the arts, history, and unique culture of the area;

9.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., has a commitment to supporting and embracing the unique characteristics of our university and university community;

10.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., will work effectively with the Board of Supervisors and implement the board’s policies;

11.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., has a proven ability to communicate effectively at all levels, to include faculty, staff, students, families, alumni, legislators, community leaders and other external constituents, as well as to maintain strong professional relations with elected officials and higher educational leadership;

12.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., has a strong commitment to athletics, and it is specifically noted that he was a Demon athlete and letter winner as a member and leader of the Northwestern tennis team;

13.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., will take a prominent and sustained role in fund raising to expand the university’s resource base, additions to endowments, gifts for facilities, scholarships and financial support for our faculty and staff; and

14.That the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., will foster an environment of optimism, creativity, and innovation.

WHEREAS, after considering the applicants for the position of President of Northwestern State University, the Board of Directors of the Northwestern State University Alumni Association has elected to endorse the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., as the next President of Northwestern State University

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Directors of the Northwestern State University Alumni Board hereby endorse the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., as the next President of Northwestern State University, and respectfully request the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System to select the Honorable James Genovese, J.D., as the next President of Northwestern State University.

After consideration of this Resolution at a special meeting of the Board of Directors of the Northwestern State University Alumni Board of Directors held on the 17th day of July, 2024, on the motion by Joseph B. Stamey, and seconded by Dr. Hayward Hargrove, Jr., and John R. Evans, to adopt the Resolution, a record vote was taken and the following result was had:

The Board of Directors voted unanimously in favor of the Resolution to endorse The Honorable James Genovese, J.D. as President of Northwestern State University.

THUS, UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED at a special meeting of the Board of Directors of the Northwestern State University Alumni Board of Directors held on the 17th day of July, 2024.

ATTEST:  Leah Sherman Middlebrook NSU Alumni President.

(This article is a paid message on behalf of the NSU Alumni Association)

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Springhill Medical Center is hiring nurse practitioners for Doctors Clinic. NPs are trained to assess patient needs, order and interpret diagnostic and laboratory tests, diagnose disease, prescribe medications and formulate treatment plans.

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