The boil advisory issued by City of Minden November 25 for the customers on the 600 and 700 blocks of E. Union and all of Mignon St. has been lifted.

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Thanksgiving meals will be a little better for many needy Minden families, thanks to a donation from the local Walmart.

Walmart store manager Ronnie Gray and associates delivered 52 turkeys to Minden City Hall Tuesday, to be distributed by Minden’s police officers and firefighters.

“This generous donation from Walmart is going to make Thanksgiving more blessed for some of our families,” Minden Mayor Nick Cox said. “We appreciate this gift and I want to thank Walmart on behalf of all of us.”

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We at the Webster Parish Journal are so very thankful for our readers and advertisers. You are the reasons we work so diligently to bring a quality product to you every single day we publish.

But we are also thankful for our families and friends, so we will be spending Thursday and Friday enjoying their company and will be back with all of you next week on our regular Tuesday through Friday schedule.

HAVE A HAPPY AND BLESSED THANKSGIVING!

Pat and Bonnie Culverhouse

& Your Friends at the Webster Parish Journal

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By Pat Culverhouse

A series of thefts from several vehicles in Sibley neighborhoods overnight has Sibley police and Webster Parish Sheriff’s detectives working jointly in the hunt for suspects, Sheriff Jason Parker said today.

“We have some pretty good leads that Sibley officers and our detectives are pursuing, and we believe there could be other information available from other sources like home security videos,” Parker said. “We’re following up on every possibility.”

Parker said the incidents follow an all-too common pattern where individuals make it easy for thieves to strike.

“None of the thefts were from forced entry. All the vehicles involved reportedly were unlocked,” Parker said. “That makes it too easy for a thief to make entry and be gone, usually in less than a minute.”

Parker said leaving vehicles unlocked overnight, even if they’re in a driveway, is an invitation to thieves who are looking for targets of opportunity. And, he added, it’s not always local individuals who are committing this type of theft.

“We’re aware of many cases where a group of out-of-town persons will come to small town neighborhoods and drop off a couple of individuals who will walk the streets checking vehicles,” the Sheriff said. “If the vehicle is locked, they will simply move on. If it’s unlocked, they’ll grab what’s handy, be gone in a matter of seconds and be picked up by their accomplices.”

Parker said thieves usually check seats, floorboards, consoles and glove compartments for items that can be quickly be removed.

“We’re often surprised at what people will leave inside their vehicles,” Parker said. “People have reported losing cell phones, cash, wallets, firearms…things you wouldn’t usually think of leaving in your vehicle.”

Unfortunately, Parker said, it’s that time of the year when this type of theft could become more common.

“It’s the holiday season and for some reason, this is the time when thefts increase,” the Sheriff said. “Some may think juveniles commit most of these crimes, but that’s not always the case. Many well-organized groups of adults are involved.”

Parker said individuals could take other precautions including home security cameras and well-lighted driveways. Even with those added measures, the Sheriff said the best deterrent is still to simply remember to lock the vehicle.

“It’s an easy thing to remove any valuables and lock your doors,” he said. “We encourage all our people to remember that anyone can be the victim of this type of theft. All it takes is a moment of carelessness to give a criminal the advantage.”

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Kody West, a 37-year-old white male of Keithville, is wanted for allegedly cashing a stolen check at a local bank.

West allegedly stole three checks from a residential mailbox in Ruston. One check was for more than $2,000 and was cashed at a Minden bank.

Anyone with information on Kody West is encouraged to contact MPD Detective Lt. Jason Smith at 318-371-4226 (office), 318-268-1441 (cell) or email at  jksmith@mindenusa.com. All information will be confidential.

A reminder from the Minden Police Department:

Minden Chief of Police Jared McIver reminds everyone that if you put your home mailbox flag up for outgoing mail, it could be the same as telling thieves there is money in your mailbox.

“This is especially dangerous at this time of year because of outgoing Christmas cards.  A safer alternative is to place outgoing mail in one of the blue, U.S. Post Office official mailboxes. They are more secure,” the chief said.

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By Pat Culverhouse

A Minden Police Department that’s constantly evolving with an eye on high morale, increased training and improved equipment and technology was highlighted Thursday by Chief of Police Jared McIver for members of the Minden Lions Club.

McIver, who was elected chief in 2022, said changes he’s implemented since taking office were made possible by a foundation laid by his predecessor.

“A foundation to build on has to be strong and I want to say thank you to Chief (Steve) Cropper for laying that foundation,” McIver said. “He doesn’t get enough praise for what he accomplished. I also appreciate his faith in me to take the office.”

McIver said one of the first issues the department addressed was gang activity. He told the Lions that in the previous year there was lots of talk of gangs, reports of gunshots, drive-by shootings and other gang activities. That issue, he said, was targeted by suggestions from his administrative team.

“Our command staff had the idea to stack our most proactive officers on the two night shifts, and from there it was hammer down,” he said. “Our guys did their jobs and did it well. Now we hear that gang members we’re looking for are out of our town, in other places. They left.”

McIver said more than two dozen gang members have been arrested, are beginning to make court appearances “…and they’re getting prison time. We had a good plan and it came together.”

One big reason things are going well at the MPD is manpower. In a time when many law enforcement agencies are looking at seriously decreased numbers, Minden’s department is fully staffed, McIver said.

“That’s unheard of practically anywhere you go,” he told Lions members. “Go anywhere and you will find shortages. How are we doing that? First, I give praise to God. Then, there are the things we do for our officers.”

Minden’s department includes 31 full-time officers plus dispatchers and reserves. Inside the structure are three full-time detectives and two full-time narcotics officers.

McIver’s command staff, which is heavily involved in policy and support, consists of Deputy Chief Tokia Harrison, Deputy Chief Chris Cheatham and Patrol Commander Lt. Chris McClaran.

“We have two deputy chiefs because we have so many departments,” McIver explained. “Each chief has areas of responsibility and splitting responsibilities gives more attention to detail in each department. I give a lot of praise to the staff. They bring great ideas to the table.”

McIver said morale is important in any organization, especially in law enforcement. One morale booster is take-home police vehicles for all officers.

“It’s not only a morale booster, it is a deterrent. It gives us visibility…we’re in neighborhoods all over the city,” he said.

Minden’s officers are also included in many decisions that affect the department. McIver said new uniforms and the department’s uniform patches were designed by and approved by officers. Also, the design on the department’s vehicles was approved by the officers.

“We also provide all the equipment needed by our officers, and that’s something very few departments do,” McIver said. “The only thing the officers have to supply is socks and underwear.”

A big part of successful law enforcement is cooperation between other agencies, McIver said.

“We have a great working relationship with the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, especially in narcotics investigations,” he said. “Our detectives in both departments work very well together.”

One example was the latest drug bust where the two agencies combined to successfully end a WPSO investigation which led to the seizure of a large quantity of methamphetamines, cocaine and other pills including Fentanyl.

“Those drugs were headed to Minden. Talking with some officers, they said this was the largest bust they can remember. I’m glad we were able to catch it, keep it off the street and cost drug dealers some money,” McIver said.

In response to questions, McIver said the department has an outstanding, well-trained and equipped Special Response Team (SRT) that regularly conducts exercises, including in local schools.

“We train when the children are out of school,” he said. “This gives us the opportunity to learn the layout of the school and other buildings that might be targeted.”

He also said the department is working on plans to conduct a large active shooter exercise with one of the area’s largest retailers.

“We’ve initiated talks with Walmart about a training scenario that would involve multiple agencies,” he said. “As it stands, if there was such a situation, officers would respond from across the area, but there would be no unified structure for placement or strategy. We want to train because chance favors the prepared.”

McIver also praised Minden Mayor Nick Cox and the city council for their support.

“It’s very nice to be able to work together with the mayor and council so well,” he said. “It’s been a well-oiled machine. Each time I go to the mayor he’s brainstorming for ways to help and he comes up with solutions.”

 

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Congratulations, John Tucker, the Week 12 and final winner of the 2024 Webster Parish Journal Football Pick’em Contest. Here is Tucker receiving his $100 prize from one of Under Dawgs’ managers Claire Gray (left) and a hug from Under Dawgs’ owner Claudine Thomas. Tucker proved that all you need is your phone and you can play and win the contest from anywhere. He chose 9 of 10 correct picks while on a trip to South Korea visiting his daughter and grandchildren.

Webster Parish Journal wishes to thank everyone who played this year’s Pick’em contest and most especially all our advertisers: Title Sponsor Under Dawgs, Anchor Sponsor Debbie Callender, Advanced EMS, Carroway Preowned, Jack W. Slaid Attorney, Ace Hardware, Shelter Insurance, A.J. Price Tire, Minden Athletic Supply, Holcomb’s Body Shop and Brown Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, LLC.

See you all at kick-off time next Fall!

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

Monday, December 23, 2024 at 2 p.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

City Clerk

/s/ Nick Cox

Mayor of Minden

11/27, 12/04/, 12/11

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Often when people cook for the Thanksgiving holiday, there are likely to be plenty of leftovers. While leftovers can be a great way to extend the meal and save time, it’s crucial to handle them safely to avoid foodborne illness. To ensure that leftovers are safe to eat, several key practices must be followed.

Firstly, it’s important that the food is cooked to a safe internal temperature. For example, turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to kill harmful bacteria. To avoid cross-contamination, use a food thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the meat. Once the food is cooked, hot food must be kept at a temperature of at least 140°F or warmer until it is served. Keeping food at this temperature helps prevent bacteria from growing, which can multiply quickly at unsafe temperatures.

After the meal is over, the key to safely storing leftovers is refrigerating them promptly. Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours of being taken off the heat source, and if the room temperature is above 90°F (such as at an outdoor gathering), they should be refrigerated within one hour. Bacteria grow rapidly between the temperatures of 40°F and 140°F, which is known as the “danger zone.” If food is left in this range for too long, harmful bacteria can multiply to dangerous levels.

The two primary causes of foodborne illness are cooking food at an unsafe temperature and leaving food out for longer than two hours. Bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins in contaminated food or beverages can cause foodborne illness. Symptoms of foodborne illness can range from mild stomach upset to severe conditions requiring medical attention, so it’s important to avoid the risks by adhering to food safety guidelines.

When storing leftovers, make sure to place them in shallow containers to allow for quick cooling. The refrigerator should be set at 40°F or lower to ensure the safe storage of perishable foods. If you plan to keep leftovers for more than a few days, freezing them is another option to extend their shelf life. Additionally, be sure to reheat leftovers to a safe temperature of 165°F before consuming them.

Safe handling of leftovers is particularly important in reducing the risk of foodborne illness, not just during the holiday season but throughout the year. By following these simple steps—cooking food to the right temperature, refrigerating leftovers promptly, and reheating them properly—you can help ensure that your Thanksgiving leftovers remain safe to enjoy.

If you need help on Thanksgiving Day, the Meat and Poultry Hotline is available from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eastern Time. You can contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) to talk to a food safety expert or chat live at  ask.usda.gov from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.

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

(Shakera Williams, DrHSc, MPH, Assistant Extension Agent, Nutrition & Community Health, Webster and Claiborne Parishes, Parish Chair Webster Parish, 1202 Homer Road|Minden,LA 71055, Office: (318) 371-1371|Fax: (318) 371-9005, sswilliams@agcenter.lsu.edu |LSU AgCenter.com)

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Unless you are Santa Claus, you are faced with some tough haberdashery decisions when forced to take a ride on the Christmas Season Social Circuit.

Santa has it made. He’s got one suit.

Here’s a guy who never has to worry about whether or not his bow tie is crooked. No matter what clothing etiquette the holiday occasion calls for, Santa Claus is literally covered.

Red suit with white trim. Black belt and boots. Red hat with white trim and white fuzzy ball. He carries the big bag if he wants to accessorize. Standard gear, worldwide, for the past several hundred years, give or take.

That is why he’s so jolly all the time; all he has to do is keep the one outfit fairly clean and he’s set.

Not so with non-Santas. For you and me, the holiday dress-code road is ice-patched, long and winding, the woods dark and deep.

The Situation: A holiday party looms, and the invitation reads “gala.” You panic, because you thought Gala was a girl’s name.

Is a “gala” different from a “festive occasion”? Is a gala automatically a “black-tie affair”? Or is it just a dressed-up word meaning “a party”?

No clue.

Say a guy wants to barbecue chicken in December in his backyard. Can he invite people and call it a gala? Can he have a gala if he’s barbecuing alone? Can barbecue sauce and a gala co-exist, or does one automatically cancel the other?

Can you wear a baseball cap to a gala? If you can’t, why? If you can and the party is after 5 p.m., is a black cap preferable?

Probably not. But then, what about this:

If a bunch of iron workers decide to have their Christmas party immediately after work one Friday and if refreshments come straight out of ice chests sitting in the back of their dusty pickups, and if the guy who puts on a clean T-shirt is considered overdressed, are you going to tell them their party is not a gala if that’s what they want to call it?

I think not.

Even reindeer have it better than we do. They can show up at a gala stark naked, with maybe a bell or two on, and nobody says squat.

For a moment, let’s define gala as “a big festive party involving finger foods and people with ties on and dresses they wear only three times a year, max.” Fine. Now, when does it stop being a “gala” and start becoming a “bunch of guys standing around talking and wanting to get out of their rented shoes”?

It’s enough to make you long for Groundhog Day.

And is it pronounced gay-la, gah-la, or gal-a? The dictionary has it all three ways.

See what we’re saying? It’s hard to dress for something you don’t even know how to pronounce.

The bottom line is “gala” is a mysterious word and thing. So there’s no mystery about what many of us need going into this Christmas season.

A clean and pressed red suit.

And a fashion clue.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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 Have you ever really looked at a Farmer’s Almanac?  After working 43 years in the agriculture industry, I have had the Almanac quoted to me thousands of times.  The Farmer’s Almanac was founded in 1792.  That’s awhile back.  The cover of the book says that it is” useful, with a pleasant degree of humor”.  

If you take a good look inside you will find a world of interesting information.  Weather forecasting is the most interesting to me. The 2025 Almanac forecasts a mild,wet winter for us in this area.  The summer forecast is hot and dry.  The accuracy for 2024 was 64 percent, which is slightly below the traditional average rate of 80 percent . The 2025 almanac was printed before the weather catastrophe in the south west states.  

Let’s don’t forget the astronomy, and the phases of the moon.  Many of the older people still believe the method of planting the garden by the phases of the moon and the phenology.  What is that?  Phenology refers to the life cycles of plants and animals as they correlate the weather and temperature, or natures calendar.  For vegetables, plant potatoes when the dandelion blooms.  Plant corn when oak leaves are the size of a squirrels ear, and plant tomatoes when lilies-of -the-valley are in full bloom.  These are just a few of the different things that the Farmer’s Almanac tells.   

I prefer to watch the weather, plant when I have the time, and not worry about astronomy.  Just ask your grandparents, if you are so lucky to still have them,  about the almanac.  They will surely have a lot of things to say.

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

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Advent will soon be upon us, leading into Christmas. Many churches and other religious organizations will observe this holy season and may want to extend invitations for the community to join them. If you have an event of this nature, please send the date, time and description to wpjnewsla@gmail.com and we will be happy to print it.

December 1

4 p.m. Christmas Music concert by Cox and Thurman families, Brushwood Methodist Church of Dubberly. Gumbo served afterward in Ellen Hall. All are welcome to start the Advent season.

5 p.m. Hanging of the Greens, Mt. Zion C.M.E. Church, 414 East Union Street, Pastor T.J. Davis Jr. All are welcome.

December 8

3 p.m. Shreveport-Bossier Choral Ensemble Christmas Concert, First Methodist Church Sanctuary, 903 Broadway, Minden. Aaron De. Wilson Director. Dr. Dan Gibbs, Accompanist.

December 12 – 14

6 until 9 p.m. Walk-through Live Nativity, Parkway Baptist Church, 160616, Hwy. 79, (Homer Road). Free event. Refreshments served.

December 14

5:30 p.m. Meet & Greet Advent Event in Parish Hall of St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1107 Broadway, Minden. Light musical entertainment; potluck with Christmas Party theme.

December 15

6 p.m. Once Upon a Night Christmas Cantata, First Methodist Church Chancel Choir with Orchestra. Dr. Dan Gibbs, Director. Sanctuary, 903 Broadway, Minden, La.

December 21

5:30 until 9 p.m. Downtown Live Nativity.

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It’s a strange position to be asked to write an obituary for your mother. It was something I dreaded for several weeks. She passed away while I was working out of the country, and I tabled it for a few weeks. Finally, on the flight home, in an environment without distractions, I started, and finished, it. On the drive home from the airport, it hit me that— in 63 years— I had never entered these city limits without my mom living here. 

I have written this weekly column for well over 25 years, 1,000 words every week, never missing a week. That’s somewhere over 1,300,000 words in print (not counting books and magazine articles). This is a first. And a last. Thanks in advance for allowing me this one-time personal indulgence. 

Virginia White St. John, known to everyone as “Dinny”—with an “i,” not an “e” (because she had no patience for comparisons to the chain breakfast restaurant)—lived a life as colorful and determined as the art she created. Born on August 10, 1933, in Nashville, Tennessee, she spent her childhood in Nashville, Danville, Kentucky, and Macon, Georgia, where she graduated high school. Her college years took her to the University of Georgia and later Vanderbilt University, where she met her husband, Hattiesburg’s own Lawrence Holleman St. John.

Dinny adored her parents, Hugh Couch White, “Bud,” and Hazelle Summit White, “Muz,” who instilled in her a deep love for faith, family, and a steadfast work ethic. Her father’s steady presence and her mother’s creative spirit shaped the determined, resourceful woman she became. She shared a special bond with her brother, Hugh Couch White Jr., who preceded her in death. Together, they developed a shared passion for Early American antiques—perhaps best described as an “obsessive reverence.” The memories of her childhood, guided by her parents’ wisdom and warmth, remained cornerstones of her life.

Dinny wore many hats in her 91 years: mom, grandmother, great-grandmother, loyal friend, teacher, artist, and—let’s be honest— “neighborhood enforcer.” She never hesitated to speak her mind with a clarity that could carve stone. Family, friends, students, and even a few unsuspecting strangers learned quickly that if you asked Dinny’s opinion, you’d better be ready for the truth. Her two sons, Drew and Robert, knew exactly where they stood with her. Tough love? Absolutely. She once gave Robert multiple “Ds” over multiple semesters in art class just to prove a point. Earned? Probably. Effective? Without question.

 

When her husband passed away in 1968, Dinny became a single mother at a time when such a role carried little support or recognition. Undeterred, she transformed an upstairs storage room into an art studio, teaching lessons to make ends meet. She went back to school, earning both a BA and MA from the University of Southern Mississippi, then embarked on a teaching career that spanned 50 years, finally retiring at age 80. Her resilience and ingenuity defined her life.

In 1971, Dinny made a bold move: she purchased a fish camp. With a mere $13,000 she purchased a lot, a mobile home, a bass boat, and a motor and trailer. It wasn’t much, but to her sons, it was paradise. There, she taught them to fish, crab, and ski while creating a haven where they never felt the absence of a father. The fish camp wasn’t just a retreat; it was a testament to her determination and resourcefulness.

Dinny’s work ethic wasn’t just something she talked about; she lived it. She expected the same from her sons. Rain wasn’t an excuse for Drew to skip delivering newspapers, nor was it a reason to avoid the six-mile bike ride to his job at the Hattiesburg American. She could have given him a ride, but she didn’t. “If you agree to do the work, you do the work,” she’d say. “No rides. No excuses.” It’s a lesson Drew still carries with him today.

Her love for history and antiques was as fierce as her determination. As a proud member of the National Society of Colonial Dames of America for over 60 years, she revered Williamsburg, Virginia, with a devotion others might reserve for holy sites. To Dinny, 18th-century history wasn’t just a passion—it was practically a lifestyle. Her sons often joked that if heaven didn’t have proper colonial architecture, she’d find a way to build it herself, complete with brick chimneys, shuttered windows, and a blacksmith shop with a perfectly symmetrical facade. The angels might as well start wearing powdered wigs and tri-cornered hats, because Dinny wouldn’t have it any other way.

Dinny wasn’t all grit; she had her moments of unintended hilarity. She was the self-appointed neighborhood policewoman, often stopping the car to scold kids playing in the street—or their front yards—if something seemed out of line. Her mortified sons would duck into the back seat, praying no one recognized them. She also dragged them to every art show within a two-state radius. “One day, you’ll thank me,” she’d say. And, of course, she was right.

Her reverence for Emily Post rivaled her devotion to scripture. Dinny firmly believed there were two kinds of people in the world: those who passed the salt and pepper properly and those who needed immediate correction. Napkins on laps, chairs pulled out, and impeccable table manners weren’t optional in her household—they were non-negotiable. Her sons quickly learned that etiquette was not a suggestion but a mandate.

Dinny also packed an extraordinary amount into her life, even when others might have slowed down. She retired at 80—begrudgingly—and only because her memory was failing. Even then, retirement simply meant shifting gears. She continued painting, advising, and critiquing her sons’ decisions with the same determination she’d shown in the classroom.

Her talents were as varied as her roles. She taught art for over five decades, influencing generations of students. At home, she painted not just on canvases but on life itself, shaping her family with a steady hand, vibrant colors, and the occasional sharp edge when needed.

To her five grandchildren, she was “Din Din,” a grandmother as creative as she was commanding. Her six great-grandchildren will grow up hearing stories of her determination, humor, and unyielding love for family and antiques. For Dinny, love wasn’t just a feeling; it was an action—a legacy of sacrifice, creativity, and strength.

Dinny lived a life that was a true masterpiece. Her family is deeply grateful for the friends and neighbors who helped her raise her sons, the pastors at Main Street United Methodist Church who patiently endured her strong opinions, and the countless students who still approach our family to share how much of an impact she made as a teacher. Dinny’s life was a portrait of grit and grace, painted with purpose and love. Her legacy of strength and service is one her descendants will always cherish.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, you honor Dinny by teaching a child something meaningful. Show them how to bait a hook, paint with purpose, or set the table with napkins in their lap. Teach them to stand when someone approaches, open doors, pull out chairs, and pass a knife properly—serrated edge down, as Dinny would insist. But above all, teach them the value of hard work. By doing so, you’ll carry forward the legacy of a woman who lived with resilience, purpose, and unconditional love. And if you feel so led, make a donation to Main Street United Methodist Church, a place she cherished and served for decades.

Dinny St. John lived to make the world around her more beautiful, whether through her art, her teachings, or her steadfast care for her family. Rest easy, Dinny, Din-Din, Mom, knowing your work here is done and done well. You were deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

“Well done, thy good and faithful servant.”

For anyone interested, services will be held November 30 at Main Street United Methodist Church in Hattiesburg. Visitation 1:30-3pm in the Fellowship Hall. Main service immediately following in the sanctuary.

Stuffed Grilled Peppers

1 Tbl bacon fat

1 cup yellow onion, small dice

1 tsp steak seasoning

1 tsp kosher salt

2 Tbl sugar

1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

2 tsp fresh garlic, minced fine

1/4 tsp dry basil

1/4 tsp dry oregano

1/8 tsp dry thyme

2 Tbl tomato paste

1 egg, slightly beaten

1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef

1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained very well

6 large bell peppers, tops and seeds removed

In a small sauté pan, heat the bacon fat over medium heat. Add onions, steak seasoning, salt, sugar and pepper and cook 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic, basil, oregano and thyme  and cook one more minute. Stir in the tomato paste and cook 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly.

Remove mixture from the heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Allow to cool completely. 

Once the mixture has cooled, mix in the egg, ground beef and drained tomatoes. Fill each pepper with the ground beef mixture.

Prepare the grill. Cook the peppers over indirect medium heat for 20-25 minutes.

Remove from the grill and serve.

Yield:

6 servings

(Robert St. John is a chef, restauranteur and published cookbook author who lives in Hattiesburg, Miss.)

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Most of Tom’s life was spent in incarceration, but now he was sentenced to death by guillotine.  The date of his execution was set for November 19.  As he sat on death row, he could do nothing but wait.  From his jail cell, he could see others awaiting a similar fate.  Tom knew nothing of their reasons for being there, whether they were innocent or guilty, but Tom was absolutely innocent.  As the old saying goes, “everyone on death row is innocent.”  One by one he watched as they were led away never to return.  Shortly after their cells were vacated, other prisoners took their place in a seemingly never-ending cycle.  Finally, his day had come.  He spoke not a word as he was led out of his jail cell and onto the platform.  The only thing that could save Tom now would be a last-minute reprieve, but it had never happened to someone under Tom’s circumstances.  There was little hope.

Tom’s time had come.  From the platform which had been set up in such a way as to give the public a good view, Tom looked out at the crowd as they looked back at him.  Rather than a somber occasion, the crowd was relaxed and seemed almost cheerful.  The crowd knew something that Tom did not.  A man stood next to Tom and begin to speak to the crowd.  Like the crowd, the speaker was smiling and cheerful as he spoke.  Tom watched the crowd in silence.  During his speech, the man told the crowd that he was commuting Tom’s death sentence to life in prison.  Tom was saved from the guillotine.  After some brief remarks, a quick photo, and a few questions from reporters, the speaker gave the sign and John was whisked away from the podium.  He was transported back to his cell at the Keithley McPherrin turkey breeding farms in Sunnymead, California.  Tom, a white 55-pound turkey, was the first turkey in history to receive a pardon from the President of the United States.

Although other presidents had saved various turkeys from dinner tables throughout the years, the pardoning of a Thanksgiving turkey did not become an annual tradition until Thanksgiving 1989 when George H.W. Bush said at a Thanksgiving Day Proclamation ceremony, while animal rights activists picketed nearby, “let me assure you, and this fine tom turkey, that he will not end up on anyone’s dinner table, not this guy—he’s presented a Presidential pardon as of right now—and allow him to live out his days on a children’s farm not far from here.” 

As we gather together with family and friends this Thanksgiving, we should remember to be thankful for everything and, more importantly, everyone we have.  We should be thankful for every moment we have on this earth because none of us know how much time we have.  You see, the first turkey to receive a presidential pardon was by President John F. Kennedy.  Kenndy planned to spend that Thanksgiving with his family in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, but first he had to do a short political tour.  On November 22, 1963, three days after pardoning Tom, John F. Kennedy was riding in a convertible in Dallas…

Sources:    

1.      The Courier-Journal (Louisville, Kentucky), November 20, 1963, p.12.

2.     The Post-Star (Glens Falls, New York) , November 18, 1989, p.4.

3.     Betty C. Monkman, “Pardoning the Thanksgiving Turkey,” The White House Historical Association, accessed November 23, 2024, https://www.whitehousehistory.org/pardoning-the-thanksgiving-turkey.

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

November 29

SPRINGHILL AREA TRASH PICK-UP

Springhill, All Thursday trash pick-up routes will run FRIDAY. Please have carts curbside night before to ensure pick-up.

November 30

CITY OF MINDEN TRASH PICK-UP

Friday Minden routes will run SATURDAY. Please set out cans Friday night

9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m. Breakfast with Santa at the Partea Room.

9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Mistletoe Market, Springhill, La.

5 until 7 p.m. Springhill Lighted Christmas Parade.

December 6

6 p.m. Minden Medical Center Rehab Reindeer Run. Registration online – runsignup.com/Race/LA/Minden/RehabReindeerRun, forms available MMC Rehab, 1120 Homer Rd or MMC Business Office, 346 Homer Rd.

December 7

8:30 until 11 a.m. Breakfast with Santa, Lakeview Methodist Church, 301 Lakeshore Drive, Minden. Free pancakes, milk, juice and coffee. Free pictures made with Santa.

December 9

5 until 7p.m. Chicken & Sausage gumbo with rice, bread and dessert. Gumbo from Herby-K’s. $12. Springhill Farmers Market, 404 N. Giles, Springhill. Proceeds go to LaMa Rescue.

December 10

6 p.m. St. John’s Episcopal Church will host the Minden High School choir’s Christmas Concert in the sanctuary. All are welcome.

December 12 – 14

6 until 9 p.m. Walk-through Live Nativity, Parkway Baptist Church, 160616, Hwy. 79, (Homer Road). Free event. Refreshments served.

December 13

5:30 p.m. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

6 until 9 p.m. Holiday Trail of Lights Hayride and Historic Tour

6 p.m. Reindeer Run

December 14

9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Christmas Brunch at Geaux Fresh Bistro and Bakery

Noon until 3 p.m. pics with Santa and kids activities at Dorcheat Museum.

5 p.m. Minden Christmas Festival and Parade

7 p.m. Fireworks

December 15

1 until 6 p.m. Christmas Tour of Homes

December 16

Deadline for applications for Civitan Santa Toy project. Pick up application forms at Minden City Police Department or Community Action Center. Applications will be considered for children through age 13.

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There are a lot of hunters that can look back on Thanksgiving with fond memories. It’s not just about the food and football, but about their hunts as well. While some hunt ducks, quail or squirrels, others head for their favorite deer stand on Thanksgiving morning. Today we’ll go back in time during the early ‘70’s on a hunt I’ll never forget.

Every year as far back as I can remember, my favorite time to go hunting was on Thanksgiving morning. There was just something special about this day and waking up early knowing that three good things were going to happen that day. First, I was going deer hunting looking to shoot a good buck. Next, I knew there would be one heck of a Thanksgiving spread waiting for me after the hunt. 

This would be a meal that would include my mom’s tasty cornbread dressing, fresh brown gravy, candied sweet potatoes, green beans, hot butter top rolls, deviled eggs, and either a pan roasted turkey or, every once in a while, she would shake things up with oven baked Cornish hens. To wash all this down you could choose grape Kool-Aid or sweet tea. For dessert, there was a choice between sweet potato or pecan pie, along with mom’s famous fruit salad (which was better after day 3) covered in homemade whip cream topped with walnuts. 

As you can see, there was no shortage of food. But the third thing I looked forward to, that Thanksgiving Day would not be complete without, was a Dallas Cowboys victory. Nothing was more satisfying after a great meal than watching the Cowboy’s destroy their opponent.

But let’s talk about a Thanksgiving hunt I will remember forever…my first buck at the age of 12. This particular morning the temperature was in the mid 40’s with sunny skies predicted. A great morning for blowing smoke as you sat on your deer stand. But this day had a different feel, a feeling of anticipation because I had already seen the buck I was after the weekend before. 

It appeared to be a solid mature eight-point buck that I hoped would make his presence known. But for some odd reason, I decided not to sit in my stand which was in the woods at the top of a hill overlooking a creek. There was also a game trail crossing this creek that deer were using on a regular basis. 

So, I set up at the base of a huge pin oak tree just 20 yards off the game trail. It wasn’t long (30 minutes) before I heard the sound of something crashing through the woods headed directly in my direction. As I peered through the dense wood cover, I saw the huge buck crossing the creek and coming straight at me. Then halfway up the hill, the big eight point stopped and locked up as if he knew something wasn’t right.  

I knew at this point the deer had probably gotten wind of me. I sat motionless with the buck looking in my direction about 30 feet away pawing at the ground. At one point it was as if we made actual eye contact. While this seemed like an eternity, I don’t think I took a breath for at least two minutes. 

Finally, the buck looked back in the direction he came from and that’s when I raised my Remington 308 rifle and fired one shot. The buck jumped in the air and whirled around and headed back across the creek. I thought, “Surely, I didn’t miss that buck!” I mean he was the biggest buck in the county in my eyes! But then I heard him hit the ground confirming that I had made a clean shot. 

The man I was hunting with, who was a good friend of the family, heard my shot and came immediately. We slowly walked towards the deer as we crossed the shallow creek and there he was, a really nice mature eight-point buck that I thought was the same deer I had seen the weekend before. 

To say this was my favorite Thanksgiving ever would be an understatement! I was so excited and could not wait to show the deer to my family and friends. This is just one story of many that so many hunters get to experience during this time of year. 

It’s also another reason for all of us to be thankful, not just for the opportunity to go hunting, but for the time we get to share with each other. Till next time, good luck, good hunting, as I would like to wish each of you a happy Thanksgiving!  

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court on Monday, December 2:

Courtroom A

COMPTON, JOHN LUCAS

99197 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

OC 11/15 Trial 1/27 A Status Hearing WPSD

DANCE, SARAH FAYE

98979A-CT.1 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000.00

98979A-CT.2 Simple Battery

98979A-CT.3 Resisting An Officer

For Further Disposition WPSD

DANCE, SARAH FAYE

98201 Ct. 1 Simple Criminal Damage To Property

Under $1,000.00

98201 Ct. 2 Simple Battery

A For Further Disposition WPSD

DANCE, SARAH FAYE

98979 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

WPJ OC 10/4 Trial 1/27

A Status Hearing WPSD

DANCE, SARAH FAYE

98979B-CT.1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98979B-CT.2 Attempted Simple Escape

98979B-CT.3 Attempted Aggravated Escape

98979B-CT.4 Second Degree Battery

A Status Hearing WPSD

Holland, Hugo Eric Johnson Doug Stinson

DUNN, RONNY PAUL

98684 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Status Hearing MPD

Codef: H. Taravella

IVERSON, MAURCIONIO L.

98345-CT.1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98345-CT.2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98345-CT.3 Simple Escape

98345A-CT.1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

98345A-CT.2 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

A Status Hearing WPSD

JOHNSON, JR., KEVIN PATRICK

99213 Intimidating or Impeding a Witness

A Status Hearing MPD

JONES, SR., TERRY WYATT

97270 Illegal Discharge And/Or Disposal Of Non-Hazardous Substance

A Status Hearing DEQ

JONES, SR., TERRY WYATT

99179 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Status Hearing MPD

MARTIN, TONY

98733-CT.1 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

98733-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

A Status Hearing WPSD

MCEACHERN, CALVIN BRAD

99196-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

99196-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule III CDS

A Status Hearing MPD

PACKARD, II, RICHARD P

97448 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

97448A Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

A Status Hearing WPSD

POTTS, JAMES L.

98825 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Hearing WPSD

POTTS, JAMES L.

98825 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

A Arraign on Amended Bill WPSD

SMITH, ANTONIO DEWAYNE

99223 Second Degree Battery

99223A Simple Battery

A Status Hearing WPSD

STEVENS, JASON C

99248 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Codef: A. Latham

A Status Hearing WPSD

STRICKLAND, JON MICHAEL

99163 Simple Burglary

A Status Hearing WPSD

THOMAS, NATHAN LETRELL

97352A Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

Codef: J. Oliver

A Probation Violation Hearing CPD

THOMAS, NATHAN LETRELL

99278 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

A Status Hearing MPD

THOMAS, NATHAN LETRELL

98866 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98866 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

98866 CT. 3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

A For Further Disposition LSP

TIMS, RANDALL L.

98295 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

A Status Hearing MPD

WALTMAN, TONY

98580 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty- Eight Grams)

A Status Hearing WPSD

Courtroom B

DISOTELL, JACOB DAWSON

99063 CT 1 Simple Battery

99063 CT 2 Aggravated Assault

B For Further Disposition WPSD

DISOTELL, JACOB DAWSON

99324 Simple Battery

B For Further Disposition WPSD

FORD, LAMONT MARIEL

99046 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

Co-Def R. Horton

B Status Hearing LSP

FOSTER, RANCE D.

99051 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

B Status Hearing WPSD

GUTIERREZ -AGUILAR, LUIS MIGUEL

98970 CT 1 Simple Burglary

B Status Hearing DIPD

Yocom, Jimbo Eric Johnson Parker Self

98970 CT 2 Illegal Use Of Weapons Or Dangerous Instrumentalities

Restitution owed to the victim per the report- $14,314.12, plus $2,147.11 fee = $16,461.23 total

OGDEN, KADARRYL OLAJAWON

98960 Distribution Of A Substance Falsely Represented As A Controlled Dangerous Substance

B Status Hearing SPRING

OGDEN, KADARRYL OLAJAWON

97161 Aggravated Second Degree Battery

B Probation Violation Hearing SPRING

QUAID, JUSTIN SHANE

95898 Theft of $5,000 or More but Less than $25,000

Restitution owed to the victim per report $15,000, plus $2,250 fee= $17,250 total

REED, CHRISTOPHER BURTON

98154 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

B Probation Violation Hearing MPD

STEPHENS, JARYON

98880 CT 1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98880 CT 2 Attempted Second Degree Murder

Co-Def: G. Kemp

B Status Hearing MPD

TAYLOR, JAMIE M.

98604 CT 1 Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment

98604 CT 2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

B Status Hearing MPD

TROQUILLE, JOE

98658 CT 1 Illegal Discharge Of A Firearm – Crime Of Violence / Uniform CDS Law

98658 CT 2 Illegal Discharge Of A Firearm – Crime Of Violence / Uniform CDS Law

Please make forfeiture of P-380 handgun as part of any sentence/plea agreement.

B Hearing SPRING

WILLIAMS, HEATH LOGAN

99129 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Co-Def: C. Reed

B Status Hearing WPSD

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If you are wondering what to do with the mounting trash left over after your Thanksgiving guests depart, you may need to check your trash pick-up schedule, as some will be affected by the shortened week.

North Webster Parish – Springhill, Sarepta and other areas where Knight Services runs will have their Thursday pick-up routes on Friday. Knight asks that all carts are pulled to the curbside the night before (THURSDAY) to ensure pick-up.

Republic Services, serving the City of Minden, will run Saturday for residential and business pick-ups. Please set out cans (FRIDAY) night.

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Opal Holder Cole

Oct. 21, 1931 – Nov. 24, 2024

Cotton Valley, La.

Visitation:9 a.m. until 10:45 Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, Cotton Valley Cemetery, Cotton Valley, La.

Sherry Lynn Poland

Sept. 14, 1948 – Nov. 24, 2024

Minden, La.

Graveside service: 2 p.m. Wednesday, November 27, 2024, Bistineau Cemetery.

Virginia DeLoach

Oct. 13, 1937 – Nov. 24, 2024

Minden/Dubberly, La.

Visitation: Noon until 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Graveside service: 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, Fuller Cemetery.

Heather Mason

April 26, 1979 – November 15, 2024

Springhill, La.

Arrangements pending through Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Belinda Ruth Jones

April 27, 1953 – October 25, 2024

Haynesville/Homer, La.

Memorial service: 11 a.m. Saturday, November 30, 2024, Ruple Baptist Church, Haynesville, La., under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Homer, La.

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

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By Pat Culverhouse

Webster Parish authorities are seeking the public’s assistance in the case of Darnisa Thompson who has been missing for almost three years and is presumed dead.

Darnisa was last seen March 14, 2022 in the area of Sand Plant Rd., Dubberly. Her home address is in Mesquite, Texas.

Allton “OC” Cravens is currently charged with second-degree kidnapping and obstruction of justice in relation to her disappearance. Cravens, who is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center under bond totaling $460,000, was the last person known to be with Darnisa Thompson.

Authorities believe she was murdered and have been unable to locate her body. She left behind two small children who are being raised by their grandmother.

Anyone with information is asked to please contact the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, Det. Karen McDonald at (318) 377-1515.

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

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By Paige Gurgainers

Still reeling from the success of the 2^nd annual Witches Ride of Minden, the ladies of Pearls of Purpose are not slowing down with their community involvement efforts any time soon. Next thing on their agenda? Turn all (most of) downtown Minden’s Historic District into a LIVE Nativity.  

For anyone who has driven around town this week, it is clear that Minden is already getting into the Christmas spirit. City crews have been busy putting up Christmas decorations and lights throughout downtown. Business owners have already begun adorning their storefronts with trees, garlands and wreaths. Churches are also beginning to plan for plays, caroling and holiday services.  

But more preparations are happening behind the scenes including this one-night event December 21 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. 

“The Live Nativity will be filled with characters, a community choir, a Shepherd’s field and more, creating a memorable adventure for the entire family,” said Pearls of Purpose member Sarah Overall.   

Multiple churches, schools and organizations are participating including St. John’s Episcopal Church where the walk-through Bethlehem will begin. Attendees will then move on from church to church taking in each station and hearing the story of the birth of Jesus Christ.  

“Bringing a nativity scene to life with real people in a realistic setting together with the unity of the local churches, will bring joy to the community this Christmas season,” said committee member and lifelong Minden resident Kelly Paul. 

The tour will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete. With this route being a little spread out, golf carts will be available for those that cannot walk the length of the scene.  More information including a map of the route will be released on the Facebook event page, Christmas Live Nativity, leading up to the official date. This event is open and free to the public.   

For those that would like to get involved, the Pearls of Purpose ladies are still needing volunteers. “We need a lot for characters because we are doing four separate one-hour slots for each scene,” said Overall. “We have plenty, but so many have said they would like to participate. We want anyone and everyone that wants to participate, to do it.” 

If your service organization, church or school would like to volunteer, please email pearlsofpurposeminden@gmail.com. 

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The City of Minden has issued a boil advisory for the customers on the 600 and 700 blocks of East Union and all of Mignon St. Minden Mayor Nick Cox said a contractor damaged a line in the area recently.

“The city fixed it, but we couldn’t get the leak 100 percent stopped,” he said. “We waited until Webster (Junior High School) was out of school and fixed it permanently by replacing the pipe and valve.”

Cox said it has been repaired and water restored, however, the boil advisory is in place until further notice.

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Tuesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 47. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph after midnight.

Wednesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 76. Southwest wind 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 52.

Thanksgiving Day

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60.

* Information provided by the National Weather Service

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