Monday

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Monday Night

Showers and thunderstorms likely before 1 a.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Tuesday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Tuesday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71.

Wednesday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 81. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Wednesday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70.

* Information provided by National Weather Service.

The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM) is proud to announce its selection as one of the first award recipients of a new federal grant aimed at combating carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning across the country.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Grant Program (COPPGP) award, totaling $50,000, allows the agency to obtain hundreds of carbon monoxide detectors and generator safety signs to elevate awareness about the dangers of CO, especially related to generator use, and to increase CO poisoning prevention measures across Louisiana.

The program, authorized through the Nicholas and Zachary Burt Memorial Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act of 2022, supports eligible state, local, and tribal governments with grants to purchase and install CO alarms in residential homes and dwelling units of low-income families or elderly people and facilities that serve children or the elderly, including childcare centers, public schools and senior centers, and to develop training and public education programs with the goal of preventing CO poisoning.

“We are overjoyed to make this announcement as we ask Louisianans to continue to be conscious of their generator use heading into the heart of hurricane season,” said State Fire Marshal Chief Bryan J Adams, “Having a game plan for disaster includes ways to prevent disaster altogether. This grant helps us do that by educating residents about generator safety and equipping families that use generators with a critical carbon monoxide warning tool like these detectors.”

The SFM is one of 22 recipients receiving a total of $3 million in funding for this first-time effort. Awardees are responsible for matching 25 percent of the cost; for Louisiana, that’s $12,500. One of the deciding factors for Louisiana’s award was the new carbon monoxide law that went into effect Jan. 1, 2023 requiring all one and two-family dwellings to have at least one, sealed battery CO detector installed at the time of lease or sale.

Similar to the agency’s free smoke alarm installation program, Operation Save-A-Life, the SFM will partner with local fire departments to provide these CO alarms to families that need them most in their communities and to distribute the generator safety signs in the immediate aftermath of a disaster involving widespread, extended power outages.

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 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.

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

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

Owen “Smokey” Wayne Smith

Sept. 16, 2005 – July 14, 2024

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Monday, July 22, 2024, Hill Crest Memorial Funeral Home, Haughton.

Funeral service: 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 23, 2024, Hill Crest.

Burial to follow at Hill Crest.

Kathie Lee Lolley

Oct. 25, 1956 – July 18, 2024

Doyline, La.

For service information: Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Connie Diana Sanders

Sept. 20, 1955 – July 14, 2024

Sarepta, La.

Visitation:  Noon until 2 p.m. Monday, July 22, 2024, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill, La.

Funeral service: 2 p.m. immediately following visitation.

Burial: Spring Branch Cemetery, Taylor, Ark.

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.)

Dear Colleagues, Partners, and Friends,

It is with a mixture of both gratitude and bittersweet emotions that I announce my resignation as Executive Director of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission. Serving Webster Parish for the past six years has been an incredible honor, and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together during this time.

One of the most significant highlights of my tenure has been the development and success of the Webster Parish Paddle Trail. This initiative has not only attracted numerous visitors to our beautiful waterways but also showcased the natural splendor of our parish, fostering a greater appreciation for our environment and outdoor activities.

Our outdoor festivals have become a staple of community life and have successfully drawn both locals and visitors to experience the vibrant culture and hospitality that Webster Parish has to offer. These events have strengthened our community bonds and created lasting memories for everyone involved.

Most recently, the Miller Quarters Park Master Plan has been a testament to our collective vision and dedication to creating a space that will serve as a central hub for recreation, leisure, and community gatherings. I am confident that this project will continue to evolve and become a cherished asset for Webster Parish.

I want to express my deepest gratitude for the partnerships and friendships that have developed over the years. The collaborative spirit and commitment to our shared goals have been the driving force behind our successes. It is essential that we continue to work together to build a stronger, more vibrant community for both locals and visitors alike. Your point of contact upon my departure on July 26, 2024 will be Ms. Johnnye Kennon. She can be reached at johnnye@visitwebster.net or 318-377-4240.

Although I am stepping down from my role, I will remain an advocate for Webster Parish and its many wonderful offerings. I have the utmost confidence in the continued growth and prosperity of our community and look forward to seeing the many future achievements that lie ahead.

Thank you all for your support, dedication, and passion. I wish everyone the very best in the season ahead and beyond.

Warmest regards,

Serena  Gray

By Bonnie Culverhouse

Taking into consideration everything from canines to kids, Webster Parish Tourism Commission, along with architects from Louisiana Tech University, Parish Line and Carbo Landscape and Architecture, has designed a park that could make Minden proud.

In many ways, Miller Quarters Park is still in the dream stages and the commission held two community forums Thursday to ask the local folks what they would like to see and utilize there.

“It’s an 11-acre piece of property, so there’s a lot of opportunity for growth and development,” said WPCVC Executive Director Serena Gray. “The property has been used a couple of times for outdoor festivals, but it would be nice to have more electrical outlets and covered pavilions and shade – an amphitheater and public restrooms.”

Using three main entrance points – one from Gleason Street, East Union and Lee Street, the design shows parking on those three edges with pavilion entrances and public restrooms.

Architects have taken water problems and turned them into water features, including drainage on the Sheppard Street side.

Carbo Landscape architect Shannon Blakeman, said there will be several pathways for walking and biking.

“Those will bring people to the water features,” he said.

Parking on Gleason Street will be near a large playground that has water fountains in which children can play. Nearby are dog park areas for large and small furry friends. There is also room for several food trucks along Gleason.

An amphitheater is designed on the corner of Sheppard and Lee streets with parking and another entrance from Lee that includes a bridge to cross water located there.

Covered pavilions for picnics and relaxation are spaced all around the park. Blake Aaron, co-founder and managing director of Parish Line said those structures, materialistically, complement the terrain, existing structures and is “Louisiana related.”

“The dog trot design actually works really well with a breezeway that people pass through as they are entering the park,” Aaron said. “Restrooms will not open up to this (breezeway) area, so you won’t have that issue when you walk through it. Instead, it will highlight a focal area as you’re entering the park.”

These will be built from materials such as raw steel, shiplap and rock.

Alex Chapman, also co-founder and managing director of Parish Line, said roofs for these buildings will be sloped to match the terrain or in a “butterfly” shape that also complements it. They include louvres to allow air to pass through, as well as light and shade as the sun moves.

The existing structure on the property is conducive to a museum.

“It would highlight the history of the Miller Quarters and possibly contain a gift shop, as well,” Chapman said.

He also said it is important that local contractors and builders take part in the construction as much as possible.

In addition to plumbing, there will be electricity with good lighting in the park. Gray said the hope is to purchase a bit of property on East Union Street that will allow parking and entrance from there.

Because there are many aspects of the project, building steps will be taken slowly, beginning with lawns and trails for public access.

“The bones of the project set up the other projects,” Blakeman pointed out.

Gray stressed the project will cost the community no money.

“At this point, we are interviewing a grant writer to come along and identify grant opportunities that have been successful in other government and municipalities,” she said. “We’ve also been able to identify other grant opportunities that support certain styles of structures that we have on-site – like the amphitheater and walking paths.”

Funds used to purchase the property in 2022 came from occupational taxes paid by outsiders visiting the city’s hotels and motels.

Mayor Nick Cox said he believes this will be an investment in something that will “bring in other people” from outside areas.

“There will be no additional taxes, and none of this money comes from the City of Minden,” Cox said. “Nothing for this project will be taken from any city project.”

That includes problems with Sheppard Street, which Councilman Buddy Myles said the city is aware of.

“We are trying to work out repairing Sheppard Street with the state,” Myles said. “There are issues with whether the state owns it or the city. If it’s us (the city) they (the state) just needs to tell us, and we will go from there.”

Commission Chairman Ty Pendergrass said safety is a top priority.

“The city has ordinances in place that park users will have to abide by,” he said. “We want to do all we can to keep the public safe – and having the police station right across the street has already been a help.”

Anyone who has not seen the plans or did not attend either community event can contact Gray or Johnnye Kennon at the tourism office at 318-377-4240. See below for possible breakdown cost of project.

By Pat Culverhouse

For the first time in years, property tax millages will be rolled forward by the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office with plans to use the revenue to provide pay increases for parish deputies and staff.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said the decision to roll forward did not come easy, but was based on the need to remain competitive in salaries with other law enforcement agencies in surrounding parishes.

“We have lost some very good, well trained people to other agencies because of better pay,” Parker explained. “Our people are dedicated to serve the people of our parish, but you can’t blame a person for taking an increase in pay and benefits to better provide for their family.”

Chief Civil Deputy Kevin McLain said the 2023 millage collected by the Sheriff was 13.78 mills. By rolling forward to the allowable 14.61, additional revenue can be collected because of increase in property values.

Under the state Constitution, parish assessors conduct reassessments on all parish properties every four years, and that is scheduled around October or November this year, McLain said. Rolling forward should bring in around $252,900, he added.

“We believe an increase will not only help retain our deputies and staff, but it will also attract well-qualified individuals when we do have openings,” Parker said.

A public hearing on the issue has been scheduled for Wednesday, September 4 at 10 a.m. on the second floor of the Sheriff’s Office at 401 Main St.

Around mid-August, under the night’s stars, Minden area residents may witness what appears to be UFO. But that’s not really the case.

Around two weeks ago, City of Minden leadership met with Major Jason Overstreet, Provost Marshal for the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), to discuss an upcoming training exercise on August 13-14 that will include landing locally.

Sixteen CH-47F Chinook helicopters will touch down and refuel at Minden Airport as they travel from Fort Campbell, Ky., to Louisiana.

“There will be well over 200 people flying in,” Minden Mayor Nick Cox said.

Another meeting will be held beforehand.

Above, from left: Jack Flynn, Russell Poole, Molly Fowler, Major Jason Overstreet, Tyler Wallace, and Mayor Nick Cox.

Friday

A slight chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 10 a.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Northeast wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 69. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 70.

Sunday

A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 10 a.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.

Sunday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70.

Monday

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 85. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Monday Night

A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Tuesday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 85. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

* Information provided by National Weather Service.

Hello, readers. It’s good to be back – albeit temporary, and for a topic I thought more people would be celebrating rather than whining about like small children, in search of the nearest consolatory mammary. I’m about to break some hearts and offend some senses. It shouldn’t be that way, but it is – and that’s unfortunate. I’m going to lay out some truths about Louisiana’s new “Constitutional Carry Law” – something that really isn’t new at all, but rather a long overdue re-run from a time when The People (at least some of them) had actual freedom.

I’ve seen post after post and comment after comment from people chiding our legislators and current governor for implementing permit-less carrying of weapons (namely firearms) here in Louisiana – and I only subscribe to one social media platform. I don’t even want to imagine what foolishness is being conjured up elsewhere on the interwebs.

I’d like to lay out a couple of points regarding this topic, and the naysayers out there.

The 2nd Amendment of The Constitution of the United States reads “A well-regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of The People to keep and bear arms SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED.” I don’t mean to yell, but apparently those last four words have eluded some of you. Also, punctuation is important, folks. Commas are crucial. Don’t believe me? Have a text conversation with a Gen-X person. You’ll see.

I’m not going to get into all the reasons why 2A opposers are communists, and there are many reasons why that is true, but it’s important to understand that our 2A rights are uniquely American, and when you oppose something so intricately woven into American culture and history, you’ve become the anthesis of a patriot.  Remember, the “R” in communism stands for Rights – just as the “F” in socialism stands for Freedom, and the “L” in stupidity stands for Liberty.   I’m not suggesting that you’re required to own, carry, or like guns – but you sure as hell need to shut up about mine. How many I own, how I carry them, and their intended purpose are no one’s concern, unless my handling of them somehow negatively impacts your quality of life – which I assure you, is not, and never will be the case.

If you’ve read any of my previous articles, you’ve seen me quote the late James Yeager. I’d be remiss not to continue that tradition here – especially on this topic. James distinguished between two groups of gun owners in America – the gun community and the gun culture. What’s the difference, you ask? Well James said it like this – “The gun community is full of a bunch of politically correct, butt-kissing, boot lickers that want to appease their liberal masters.” James went on to say about the gun community – “May the chains of your slavery weigh lightly on your shoulders.” That particular quote should resonate with readers more intensely in part-2 of this article, but basically the gun community is made up of advocates for the unconstitutional permitting process that our great state has finally culled. Regarding the gun culture, James said, “The gun culture is a group of people simply doing what our Creator gave us the right to do – not the constitution, our Creator.” What does all that mean? Well, it means your life was designed. Simply because you exist, you have an inherent right to protect your life, and the life of any other innocent person, by the most effective / efficient means available to you – so long as you haven’t committed an act against another by which you forfeited your right to live. Since shortly after the invention of gunpowder, those means have, and continue to be, firearms. The 2nd Amendment did not grant you this right – it was put in place to protect a right that some very intelligent people understood already existed. You and I were just fortunate enough to have been born into a nation whose founders recognized that truth and decided to write it down.

On July 4th, 2024, “Constitutional Carry” or permit-less carrying of concealed weapons became legal for all Louisiana residents, age 18 and over, who have the legal authority to possess a firearm. Basically, if you’re a resident of Louisiana, have attained the age of 18, and are not a person convicted of certain felonies or a person deemed non compos mentis, like ol’ JB,you can now hide your firearm on your person without first procuring a permission slip. Excuseme, permit. Some of you might not realize it, but prior to 7/4/24, someone meeting these same criteria, in Louisiana, could legally carry a firearm on their person as long as it was visible to the public. Yeah, that’s right. As soon as they covered their gun with a jacket, boot, or shirttail they became criminals under the previous law.

Some people are up in arms (figuratively speaking, of course) because now, no one meeting the criteria previously stated is required to obtain a state issued permission slip… I mean permit, to carry their gun in a concealed fashion. Let me be very clear about this next thing – mandatory permitting processes for carrying firearms are an infringement and are nothing more than a tax levied against The People – a tax you were required to pay in order to exercise a right provided by your Creator and emphatically defended in the US Constitution. However, the permitting process did come with a mandatory training requirement that no longer exists under the current law. To people making the argument that training should be required, I get it, and I’ll go easy on you, but please consider some things before you hop on the “government mandated training” bandwagon.

Obviously, I’m an advocate for firearm training. I don’t believe that anyone carrying a firearm in this country, professionally or otherwise, should do so on a whim, or just because they’re allowed. However, I also don’t think it’s the business of the government to impose mandatory training on its subjects. Excuse me, “citizens.” Previously, people had to seek out a licensed firearm instructor, pay money to learn a curriculum that, at minimum, had to be approved by the state, then literally sign away their right to medical privacy in order to apply for a permit to conceal a weapon that they, without jumping through the master’s circus hoops, could already legally open carry – which is a FAR LESS safe method of carrying a gun. The People were being financially penalized and having their right to medical privacy violated, just so they could legally cover their firearm when out in public. On top of that, folks had to pay money to the government in order to receive their permit once their application AND FINGERPRINTS were approved. People applying for permits were forced to undergo fees and processing not unlike that of someone arrested and charged with / convicted of a crime. And we allowed it. Not only did we allow it – we voted for it time and time again – like idiot sheep headed for slaughter.

If you believe training should be mandatory before someone is legally allowed to exercise their right to bear arms, fine. I’ll agree with you that training should be mandated by the government, but only under the following conditions:

This is never going to happen, by the way. So please stop going on about training needing to be government mandated. All you’re doing is inviting more and more government control over your life. Instead, take responsibility for yourself and set the example of a responsible gun owner for others. Go get training on your own. Take the initiative yourself instead of begging the government to set the rules for you and charging you a fee to do it. You might say something to the effect of “well, I’m responsible enough to get training but that doesn’t mean anyone else will be.” To that I’d say you’re probably also responsible enough to be a safe driver, but you can’t control a vehicle someone else is operating. Be vigilant out there on the street – when you’re driving and when you’re packing heat. Damn, I knew I should’ve been a rapper.

To those that say 18 is too young – you piss me off the absolute most! What a disgusting thing to say! Tell that despotic lie to the teenage patriots who gave life and limb at every battle fought for this country from Lexington & Concord, to Normandy, to Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and every other theater of war in between.

We shoved GUNS in their hands and told them to fight and die to protect the very freedom that the voting populous back home is freely giving away. Those warriors didn’t fight and die for the political agenda of a president or a political party – although that’s often what got them there in the first place. In their hearts they sacrificed EVERYTHING for you and me to live in the best country ever founded in the history of the world, and for anyone to support limitations on any freedom that’s inherently American, is absolutely disgraceful. In this state, you can drive a car at 15, you can drive a car by yourself at 16, you can legally consent to perform any sexual act you so desire at age 17. You can’t buy a beer until your 21, but by God we can force our young men to register with selective service and slap a rifle in their hands at 18. Maybe 18 is too young, but there has to be some sort of standard by which to determine who is and who is not an adult. So, until the military age is increased to 21, I’m fully on board with 18-year-olds packing heat… and buying beer for that matter.

It’s appalling to me that I’ve seen some of my own students come out against certain elements of the Constitutional Carry legislation. Some of y’all really know how to make an instructor feel like a failure. However, the people who are lamenting the loudest tend to be the “social justice warrior” type personalities. The ones who are quick to argue online because it’s safe behind a keyboard, and when their ignorance is put on display, they can simply resort to name calling, with no fear of getting smacked in the mouth. The truth of the matter is that people who actively call for more gun control, and who hate the abolishment of the permitting process, are often the very ones most negatively impacted by the infringement of 2A rights. The permitting process that was recently trashed, negatively impacted people in low-income neighborhoods more than anyone else, and gun control has been the vehicle most used by our government, namely the left side of it, to oppress certain demographics of the American citizenry. Don’t believe me? I’ll prove it… but you’ll have to wait until next week.  Hopefully, I’ve stirred your curiosity, or perhaps your anger, enough to cause you to tune in for part-2.

Until then,

Avoid what you can.  Defeat what you can’t.

Ryan

Ryan Barnette is not a licensed attorney and no information provided in “Slicing the Pie” or any other publication authored by Ryan Barnette should be construed, in any way, as official, legal advice.

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.

Being that it is plenty warm, it is a good time to plant grass in the lawn.  Bermudagrass makes a great lawn in our area.  Soil temperature should be above 65 degrees to germinate the seed and good root growth.  If you have an established lawn you can overseed it to make it thicker.  Use about a pound of seed per 1000 square foot.  To establish a new lawn use a pound of seed to 500 square foot.  There are several varieties to choose from.  Panam is a fairly new variety.  It’s made by Barenbrug Seed Company.  It establishes fast and is drought tolerant (after it is established well).  

To plant in spring and summer, in full sun areas on well drained soil.  The seed bed should be well prepared with 6 inches of loose soil and 1/2 inch of topsoil.  Seed can be applied with a broadcast seeder or by hand.  Don’t cover the seed with more than  1/4 inch of topsoil.  I always suggest that you mix the seed with sand or cornmeal to make a better cover.  You won’t waste as much seed this way.  

Keep the seedbed moist to enhance germination.  Under ideal conditions, germination will begin in 10 to 14 days and be complete within 3 to 4 weeks.  Apply fertilizer either when you plant or when it is established.  Use a low nitragen fertilizer such as an 8-24-24.  A watering program of frequent, light waterings should be followed for 1 to 2 weeks after planting to enhance germination.  After establishment, less frequent, deep watering is preferred.  In just a few weeks to a month you will have a beautiful green lawn of bermudagrass.  

Centipede grass can be established with seed also.  Use the same directions as the bermuda.  There is no seed available for St. Augustine grass.  The main thing is the hot summer is the watering program.  

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

St. Jude Singing is in its 18th year at Eastside Baptist Church.

“It is a Gospel singing event started because of my love for gospel music and St. Jude,” said coordinator Tim Greer.

Hhost group is The King’s Servants hosting church Eastside. The feature group is Greater Vision. They are the most awarded trio in southern gospel music with two of their members in Southern Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame. 

“I lost a sister to cancer in 1979,” Greer said. “She wasn’t a child but it still hit home to me and I have several friends that have had children there. (We will do) anything to help find a cure.”

Event is 6 p.m. St. Jude Singing, Eastside Missionary Baptist Church. Tickets: $15 in advance; $20 at door.

Join us for Junior Service League’s Class of 2024 provisional project as they honor the incredible first responders and teachers in our community. They are showing appreciation by serving hot dog plates to these everyday heroes.

Date: August 3, 2024

Time: 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. (or as long as hot dogs last)

Location: The Hut at Victory Park

Come out to Victory Park to be celebrated as we give thanks to our dedicated first responders and teachers. Enjoy a delicious hotdog plate on us as a token of our gratitude for your service and commitment.

This event is open to all first responders and teachers as supplies last, so bring your colleagues and friends to join in the appreciation!

LaMa is one of the hardest working organizations in the area. They save animals, help them get healthy and find forever homes. All of which takes money. See the flyers posted here for upcoming events.

If you care at all about homeless or abused animals, there are many opportunities for you to help. Lucy (above), a little dog rescued by LaMa from a hoarding situation in Doyline, is now living her best life in Maine. Use her as your inspiration. https://lamaanimalrescue.org .

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

July 19

Noon: Discovery Camp 2024 End of year party at Springhill location of Webster Parish Libraries. Smokey the Bear will be on-site to present camera with certificates and medals.

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 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

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.

August 24

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

The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of July 12 – 18. Civil suits are a matter of public record.

July 12

David Sean Fitzgerald vs. Lydia Evette Johnson, custody.

First Tower Loan LLC vs. Frederick Faircloth, monies due.

July 15

Patricia Louise Pople Knesel, succession over $125K, probate.

Discover Bank vs. Christopher B. Carter, suit on note.

Jolie Butler vs. Orin Blake Graves, protective order.

July 16

Sherry Jenkins Crews, succession under $125K, probate.

Regina Ann Blake Burns, succession under $125K, probate.

Carla Faye Prioux, interdiction.

Kayla Chandler, name change.

July 17

Leroy Hadnot Jr., succession over $125K, probate.

Bank of America vs. Lashanta S. Love, monies due.

Citibank vs. Emily Sibley,, monies due.

July 18

Tommy Lance Russell, succession over #125K, probate.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance, Charlotte B. Carey vs. Duchnhan, Ace American Insurance Co., Ari Fleet Lt.

JUDGE NERREN- COURTROOM B – JULY 19, 2024

ADKINS, HAYDEN CORINNE

98751 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Arraignment MPD

McCullough, Melanie Joey Hendrix Michael O. Craig

*BW issued 6/10 Defense Motion to Recall Bench Warrant Sent notice 6/24 St Conf 9/9 Trial 12/16

ARCENEAUX, JENAYA LEEANN

98703 Ct. 1 Simple Battery

98703 Ct. 2 Disturbing The Peace

98703 Ct. 3 Battery of a Police Officer

A For Further Disposition WPSD

McCullough, Melanie Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Continued to 7/19 by written motion

ARY, ANGELENE

98821 C. 1 Disturbing The Peace

98821 Ct. 2 Resisting An Officer

A Trial WPSD

Yocom, Jimbo Represent Self Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

Jeremy Bergren

Christopher Madonna

BANKS, KYSHUN L.

98318 Simple Littering

A Minute Entry / Clerk of Court WLF

WEBSTER, MISD No Judge Assigned

Fine and Cost paid

BARRIERE, GERALD W.

98146 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen

A Status Hearing WPSD

Holland, Hugo Larry English Mike Nerren

*OC 3/25 Trial 8/12

BASS, III, ROBERT EARL

98864 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98864 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

98864 CT. 3 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

A Arraignment LSP

WEBSTER, MISD Eric Johnson Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

BEENE, CHRISTOPHER

99050 Ct. 1 Issuing Worthless Checks

99050 Ct. 2 Issuing Worthless Checks

99050 Ct. 3 Issuing Worthless Checks

99050 Ct. 4 Issuing Worthless Checks

A Arraignment Bond Return Date

WEBSTER, MISD No Judge Assigned

BLYTHE, JAMES HAYDEN

98543 Felony Illegal Possession of Stolen

Things (Over $25,000)

A Status Hearing WPSD

Yocom, Jimbo Carey Ellis Mike Nerren

*OC 6/10 Trial 8/12

BOGUES, JR., EDDY G.

99014 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

A Arraignment WPSD

Yocom, Jimbo Eric Johnson No Judge Assigned

*Notice sent

BREWER, DAVONTRA KENTRELL

98701 Ct. 1 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

98701 Ct. 2 Simple Assault

A For Further Disposition WPSD

Yocom, Jimbo Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

Restitution per the report- $500 plus $75 fee = $575 total

BURNS, DEMARCUS L.

99086 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Arraignment MPD

MISD, ATTORNEY Felicia Hamilton Michael O. Craig

*BDCC

DILL, RUTH C

99083 Ct. 1 Simple Cruelty to Animals

99083 Ct. 2 Simple Cruelty to Animals

99083 Ct. 3 Theft Under $1,000

99083 Ct. 4 Criminal Trespassing

A Arraignment WPSD

WEBSTER, MISD Kammi Whatley Allie A Stahl

*WPJ

FFD 9/20

FAULK, LAURA MICHELLE

98328 Illegal Use Of Weapons Or Dangerous Instrumentalities

A Status Hearing WPSD

McCullough, Melanie Charles Bradshaw Mike Nerren

*OC 6/10 Trial 8/12

FONTENOT, SALLY A.

98787 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98787 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

A For Further Disposition LSP

McCullough, Melanie Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

FRANKS, JULIE C

98833 Gross Littering

A For Further Disposition WLF

WEBSTER, MISD Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

GIDDINGS, RONALD

99085 Ct. 1 Resisting An Officer

99085 Ct. 2 Battery of a Police Officer

99085 Ct. 3 Misd Illegal Possession Stolen Things

A Arraignment SPRING

MISD, ATTORNEY Determine Counsel Mike Nerren

*Notice sent

GOLDEN, THURSTON DESEAN

98511 Molestation of a Juvenile

A Status Hearing MPD

Holland, Hugo Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Bossier Medium Court Call 10:15am Trial 8/12

GOODMAN, LAURA

INCOMING Monetary Instrument Abuse

A Arraignment SPRING

Determine Counsel Michael O. Craig

*OC 5/29 No report. ARR 9/23

GOODWIN, JASON ERIC

98210 Gross Littering

A For Further Disposition WLF

MISD, ATTORNEY Carey Ellis Mike Nerren

*OC 6/10

GOODWIN, JASON ERIC

98352 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Status Hearing MPD

Yocom, Jimbo Carey Ellis Mike Nerren

*OC 6/10 Trial 8/12

Please make sure forfeiture of 2006 Chevy truck is part of any plea/sentencing agreement.

GRIFFITH, WESLEY B.

98868-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98868-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

A Status Hearing WPSD

McCullough, Melanie Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*BDCC Trial 8/12

GRIGSBY, DARREN D

98372 Ct. 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

98372 Ct. 2 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A For Further Disposition MPD

Holland, Hugo Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

GUTHRIE, LANEY

98966 Simple Battery

A Arraignment WPSD

McCullough, Melanie No Judge Assigned

*Notice Sent

HARRISON, DEKARLOS D

98930 Simple Battery

A For Further Disposition MPD

MISD, ATTORNEY Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*BDCC

HAYES-MITCHELL, ROSANNA MARIA

96492 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

A Probation Violation Hearing WPSD

Larrion Hillman PDO Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

Felicia Brown

HAYES-MITCHELL, ROSANNA MARIA

97316 Ct.1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

97316 Ct.2

Improper Supervision of a Minor by

Parent or Legal Custodian

A Review WPSD

WEBSTER, MISD LarrionHillman

PDO

Mike Nerren

*Notice sent

HORN, DAVID M

98805 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

A Status Hearing WPSD

McCullough, Melanie Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*OC 6/10 Trial 8/12

Restitution owed to the victim- $1,080, plus $162 fee = $1,242 total

JENKINS, COURTNEY

98754-CT.1 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

98754-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty- Eight Grams)

A Status Hearing MPD

Yocom, Jimbo Carey Ellis Mike Nerren

*BDCC Trial 8/12

JOHNSON, STEPHEN SHAWN

98663 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

A Status Hearing MPD

Holland, Hugo Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*BDCC Trial 8/12

KIMBLE, JALOYLD JAMESTERRIO

98367 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

A Status Hearing MPD

Yocom, Jimbo Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Writ from Caddo Correctional Trial 8/12

MARTIN, ALVIA DEWAYNE

98600-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98600-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98600-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98600-CT.4 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

A Status Hearing WPSD

Holland, Hugo Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*BDCC Trial 12/16

MATHEWS, JASON DARYL

98722 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98722 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

98722 CT. 3 Window Tint

A For Further Disposition LSP

Yocom, Jimbo Katherine Gilmer Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

MCCULLAUGH, RACHEL

98551 Ct. 1 Simple Battery

98551 Ct. 2 Simple Assault

A Trial WPSD

McCullough, Melanie Eric Johnson Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

MENDENHALL, FREDERICK D.

98595 Molestation of a Juvenile

A Status Hearing WPSD

Yocom, Jimbo Patrick Jefferson Mike Nerren

*BDCC Trial 12/16

MILLER, DOROTHY

98951 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Arraignment CVPD

McCullough, Melanie Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*OC 5/20

MILLER, VINCENT J.

INCOMING Disturbing the Peace by Appearing in an Intoxicated Condition

A Arraignment Bond Return Date WPSD

Yocom, Jimbo Represent Self Parker Self

MINGO, KEANDRIOUS

98971 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

A Arraignment LSP

WEBSTER, MISD No Judge Assigned

*Notice Sent

PIERCE, DUSTIN NEIL

98649 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense

98649 CT. 2 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

A For Further Disposition LSP

WEBSTER, MISD Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

RICHARDSON, JACOREIN DESHUN

96881 First Degree Murder

A Status Hearing MPD

Holland, Hugo Claudia Payne Mike Nerren

*Bossier Medium Court Call 10:15 a.m.

ROBINSON, ASHLEY

98800 Simple Battery

A For Further Disposition MPD

WEBSTER, MISD Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Notice sent

ROBINSON, ERIC WAYNE

99087 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

99087 Improper Turn And/Or Failure To Give Required Signal

A Arraignment MPD

McCullough, Melanie Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*BDCC St Conf 9/9 Trial 12/16

ROBINSON, ZYTWONE

98023 Illegal Use Of Weapons Or Dangerous Instrumentalities

A Review MPD

Holland, Hugo Carey Ellis Mike Nerren

*BDCC Continued from 6/10 to evaluate status of East Feliciana facility

SCOTT, EDWARD

97953 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Status Hearing MPD

McCullough, Melanie Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*BDCC Trial 12/16

Co def H. Sims

SIMS JR, DONALD W

98647-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

98647-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Status Hearing MPD

McCullough, Melanie Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*OC 6/10 Trial 8/12

SPEARS, SHANNA

98616 Ct. 1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

98616 Ct. 2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian14:92.2.A.(2)(c)

98616 Ct. 3 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

A Trial WPSD

WEBSTER, MISD Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

STERLING, DECARLOS D.

98403 Production/Cultivation of Marijuana

A Sentencing Hearing WPSD

McCullough, Melanie Eric Johnson Mike Nerren

*OC 6/10

STILES, DEVON MICHAEL

99053 CT 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

99053 CT 2 Aggravated Assault

A Arraignment MPD

WEBSTER, MISD Kammi Whatley Allie A Stahl

*BDCC FFD 9/20

TAYLOR, JEDYAH OMARION

98838 Ct. 1 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

98838 Ct. 2 Blocking Of Private Driveways, Highways And/Or Department Rights Of Way

A For Further Disposition WPSD

WEBSTER, MISD Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

THOMAS, KENNETH JERROD

99065 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

A Arraignment Bond Return Date LSP

Yocom, Jimbo No Judge Assigned

THORNTON, LASHONDA

98913 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

A Status Hearing MPD

Yocom, Jimbo To Retain Counsel Mike Nerren

*OC 6/10 Trial 12/16

UNDERWOOD, JEANETTE

98198 Theft of $5000 or More but Less than $25,000

A Sentencing Hearing SPRING

Yocom, Jimbo Charles Bradshaw Mike Nerren

*OC 4/19

Restitution owed to the victim per the report- $6,102.17, plus $915.33 fee = $7,017.50 total

WEST, SHARTRELLA NAVOSHEA

98782 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

A For Further Disposition WPSD

WEBSTER, MISD To Retain Counsel Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

WHITE, ROBERT WAYNE

98741 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98741 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

A For Further Disposition LSP

McCullough, Melanie Patrick Woolbert Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

WILLIS, KAZANEE ANQWASIA

98379 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Status Hearing WPSD

McCullough, Melanie Patrick Jefferson Mike Nerren

*OC 6/10 Trial 8/12

WILSON, BRADLEY MANNING

98319 Ct. 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

98319 Violation Of Protective Order

A Review WPSD

Holland, Hugo Eric Johnson Mike Nerren

*Notice Sent

YEAGER, STACIE

98514 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

A Sentencing Hearing SIBPD

Holland, Hugo Larrion Hillman Mike Nerren

*WPJ

Ricky James Jackson, 56, Senior Dr., Homer; arrested July 16 by Louisiana State Police for DWI second offense, driving under suspension, switched license plate, expired registration, traffic offense.

Russell Jones, 48, 100 block Milton St., Minden; arrested July 16 by MPD on outstanding warrants.

Michael D. Wood, 57, 6000 block Dorchester Cr., Keithville; arrested June 17 by WPSO for distribution of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamine).

Teadrien Burris, 26, 800 block Peach St., Minden; arrested June 17 by MPD for simple criminal damage to property. Bond set $750.

Dustyn Williams, 42, Newell Dr., Haynesville; arrested July 18 by Probation and Parole for probation violation.

Tricia Michelle Goscie, 51, Bentonville, AR., arrested July 18 by WPSO on warrant for parole violation.

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.

Owen “Smokey” Wayne Smith

Sept. 16, 2005 – July 14, 2024

Services pending – follow Hill Crest Memorial Funeral Home & Park Website for details: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/louisiana/haughton/hill-crest-memorial-funeral-home/4039 (https://www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/louisiana/haughton/hill-crest-memorial-funeral-home/4039)

RoseMary Pixley White

June 1, 1946 – July 17, 2024

Shongaloo, La.

Graveside service: 10 a.m. Friday, July 19, 2024, Old Shongaloo Cemetery under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Jimmy D. Warren

July 19, 1947 – July 15, 2024

Minden, La.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, July 19, 2024, City on a Hill Pentecostal Church, Minden.

Funeral service: 10 a.m. Saturday, July 20,2024 City on a Hill Pentecostal Church under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Burial: 11 a.m. Saturday, Minden Cemetery.

Jimmy Darrell Gildon

Dec. 6, 1946 – July 17, 2024

Shongaloo, La.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, July 19, 2024, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Funeral service: 10 a.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024, Bailey Funeral Home.

John Scott Mills

Dec. 9, 1962 – July 16, 2024

Shreveport/Springhill

Visitation: 1 until 2 p.m. Friday, July 19, 2024, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Funeral service: 2 p.m., immediately following visitation.

Burial: Springhill Cemetery.

Bonnie Woodard

Sept. 4, 1942 – July 13, 2024

Arcadia, La.

Visitation: 10 a.m. Thursday, July 18, 2024, Alabama Baptist Church, Arcadia, La.

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

Burial: Noon, Alabama Baptist Church Cemetery.

Webster Parish Journal publishes paid complete obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $80. Contact your funeral provider or wpjnewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Above death notices are no charge.)

By Bonnie Culverhouse

City of Minden’s airport is being upgraded in order to make it even more of a money-making venture.

Minden Mayor Nick Cox believes that with a low-match grant, the city will be able to build three “nice-size” hangars, which will bring revenue through rentals and fuel sales.

“We also get rated by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) according to how many aircraft are located at our airport,” Cox said. “If you go from 10 to 15 aircraft, it helps your numbers, and that’s the formula by which they rate our airport.”

All 30 hangars are currently leased, and the City Council is interested in adding two more that are 60’ by 60’ and one that is 60’ by 80.’

“The hope is to do them connected … just one long building, but we are waiting for the State Fire Marshal to bless it,” Cox said. “We should be able to get planes in the two smaller buildings and three in the larger one.”

Hangars rent for around $200.

Many of the airport’s upgrades have been funded by federal grants.

Village of Dixie Inn’s mayor and aldermen will hold a special meeting today to continue a discussion on law enforcement, after voting to keep a police force inside the town limits.

According to the agenda, Mayor Donna Hoffoss will introduce an applicant for Chief of Police. Afterward, discussion will be held to decide the number of officers needed and a pay scale for them.

The meeting will be held at 4 p.m., Village Hall, 60 Shell Street, Dixie Inn. The public is invited to attend.

One of the important opportunities to support Dorcheat Museum will take place at 6 p.m. Monday, September 9 – the annual fundraiser gala.

There will be a live cake auction conducted by “Dr. Feelgood” Richard Campbell and “TLC Picker” Tracy Campbell.

Donated cakes will be on the auction block all night long.

Cost is $25 per person in advance or $30 at the door. All proceeds go to running the museum throughout the year.

Refreshments will be served. Dress will be casual.

Bring a cake and bring a friend to support the museum!

Tickets can be purchased at the museum, by mailing a check to P. O. Box 1094, Minden, LA 71058, or at the following link.

https://www.dorcheatmuseum.com/…/gala-ticket-payment-2023

Unable to attend? Donations are always welcome. You can donate via PayPal or credit card at the following link.

https://www.paypal.com/donate…