The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Friday, May 30:

ALLEN, CHARLES THOMAS

98467 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98467 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98467 CT 3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

98467 CT 4 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

BLACKMON, JUWAN M.

99144 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

BOYD, SCOTTY DEANDRE

99506 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

BOYD, SCOTTY DEANDRE

T-737-09 Maximum Speed Limit

T-738-09 Driving Under Suspension

*OC 4/25

BRITT, TERRA DARLENE

98324 Second Degree Robbery

BROWN, EMMANUEL JAMES

98324A Second Degree Robbery

CARTAYA, IVAN

99692 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

CHAMPION, DELWIN LAVAUGHN MICHAEL

99235 Ct. 1 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

99235 Ct. 2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

99235 Ct. 3 Failure to Use Safety Belt

COLSTON, MICHELLE R

99162 Felony Illegal Possession Stolen Things ($5,000 – $25,000)

COLSTON, MICHELLE R

97819 Ct. 1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

97819 Ct. 2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

97819 Ct. 3 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

COLSTON, MICHELLE R

98613 Ct. 1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

98613 Ct. 2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

98613 Ct. 3 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

DAVIS, RANDAL D.

99606 Violation Of Leash Law

DAVIS, SARA ELIZABETH

98323 Second Degree Robbery

DOSTER, ZACKARY LOGAN KADE

98526 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

DOSTER, ZACKARY LOGAN KADE

98327 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

DOSTER, ZACKARY LOGAN KADE

T061024 Speeding 16-24 MPH

DOSTER, ZACKARY LOGAN KADE

T060123 Speeding 16-24 MPH

EDWARDS, JOSHUA O.

99607 Violation Of Leash Law

FLOURNOY, RACHAEL

99547 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

GILCREASE, JULES STEVEN

98229 Ct. 2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GILCREASE, JULES STEVEN

99368 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

GILCREASE, JULES STEVEN

97384 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

GORUM, BRANDON R.

99691 CT 1 Simple Assault

99691 CT 2 Simple Battery

HARRIS, LAJAYDEN VIDALE

99683 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

HAYDEN, RONALD WAYNE

99531 CT 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

99531 CT 2 Sale/Distribution/Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription

HECKENDORN, JACOB

99501 Ct. 1 Resisting An Officer

99501 Ct. 2 Improper Lane Usage

JERNIGAN, RONALD DAVID

99142 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen

99142A First Degree Rape (Under the Age of 13)

KEMP, ISAIAH

99636 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

LAWSON, THOMAS AARON

99608 Violation Of Leash Law

MALONE, ZANDER ADAM

99658 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

MARKRAY, DERRIAN

99552 Second Degree Battery

MCFARLAND, JR, THOMAS

99222 Resisting An Officer

MCGHEE, DWAIN TYRANNE

98396 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

MILLER, TYLER

INCOMING Resisting An Officer

MIXON, CAITLIN B.

99316A Simple Battery

MOORE, DEMARCUS JERICHO

99054 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

99054 CT. 2 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

99054 CT. 3 Following Too Closely

MOORE, ZARVIA WARTEZ

98896 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

MOUNT, JOSEPH T.

99690 Hit and Run Driving

99690A CT 1 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

99690A CT 2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

ONEAL, WILLIAM AMOS

97903 Simple Arson

Restitution owed to State Farm Insurance Company- $151,181.90, plus $22,677.29 fee = $173,859.19 total

SHROCK, WARD

99675 Battery of a Dating Partner

99675A Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

SISTRUNK, DYLAN MICHAEL

98607 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98607 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

98607 CT. 3 Improper Turn And/Or Failure To Give Required Signal

SMITH, SPENCER LEE

99674 Disturbing The Peace

STAPLES, STACEY RENEE

99653 CT.1 Speeding 11-15 MPH

99653 CT.2 Operating A Vehicle While Under Suspension For Certain Prior

*57/45

STRIPLIN, JEANIE R.

99667 Simple Battery

TOLEDO-COLLAZO, ERNESTO LUIS

98955 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

WALKER, JAMES LEE

99243 Ct. 1 Theft Under $1,000

99243 Ct. 2 Criminal Trespassing

Restitution owed to the victim- $173.16, plus $25.97 fee = $199.13 total

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

May 30

6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.) Seeds Women’s Center “Totally 80s Bingo.” Minden Civic Center, 520 Broadway, Minden. Sponsorships needed. Call Amber Bradford at 318-639-0907 for more information.

June 2

5 until 7 p.m. Big Burger Fundraiser, sponsored by Women Helping Others and benefiting Leighton Gilbert. Pick up or dine in at the Lucky Pup. Main Street Patio across from Spring Theatre, Springhill. The Lucky Pup will remain open late for shopping during the sale. The Spring Theatre will be showing the new Stitch movie at 7.

June 13 and 14

Grilling on Main BBQ Competition, downtown Minden.Two-day non-sanctioned BBQ competition.

June 14

7 p.m. Piney Woods Jamboree, CAC Building in Springhill. Special Guest will be Debra Holloway, Kylie Small, David Todd, Don Zimmerman, Caleb Williams, Brooklyn Mathews 

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Tom Bradley Womack, 43, Womack Dr., Heflin: arrested May 28 by WPSO on outstanding warrant for failure to appear. No bond set.

Daniel Hair, 57, 300 block Lorex, Minden: arrested May 27 by Minden PD on outstanding warrants. Bond set $20,000 surety or $900 cash.

Rotoya Smith Edwards, 50, 200 block McIntyre, Minden: arrested May 27 by Minden PD on outstanding warrant for felony theft. No bond set.

Todd A. Butler, 46, 100 block Loop Rd., Minden: arrested May 25 by Minden PD on multiple bench warrants, fugitive from Webster Parish SO, driving under suspension, missing tail light. Bond set $25,800 surety or $1,000 cash.

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

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Martha Ann Jones

August 29, 1935  –  May 27, 2025

Springhill, La.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Funeral service: 10 a.m. Friday, My 30, 2025, Kings Corner Assembly of God, Sarepta.

Burial: Springhill Cemetery.

Rodney Dooley

December 25, 1959 — May 24, 2025

Minden, La.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Friday, May 30, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Burial: Pine Grove Methodist Church, Minden.

Nelwyn Marcine Simpson

December 15, 1931 — May 23, 2025

Minden, La.

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 28, 2025, Mt. Zion Cemetery, Minden.

Nancy Charlene Meeker

January 3, 1955 — May 19, 2025

Minden, La.

Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

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

Michael L. Beckham

December 5, 1967 — May 22, 2025

Doyline, La.

Visitation: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 28, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home Chapel, Minden.

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

Burial: Doyline Cemetery.

Robert J. (Bobby) Smith

November 7, 1953 — May 18, 2025

Minden, La.

Graveside service: 1 p.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, Gardens of Memory Cemetery under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

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

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Webster Parish has extended a helping hand to neighboring law enforcement after Haughton police officers rescued a number of dogs living in deplorable conditions in a Union Texas Rd. residence.

Haughton officers reportedly were investigating a welfare concern Friday (May 23) when they detected what was described as “a horrendous smell,”  and observed through windows of the residence animals living in stacked cages.

Officers were initially denied entry by the home’s resident, Michele Massara, but were able to obtain a search warrant for the residence and property. Inside, they found 13 dogs living in what officers said were “deplorable” conditions.

No room for the animals was available in Bossier Parish, and Haughton authorities contacted Webster Parish for assistance. Parish Animal Control Officer Deputy David Dick responded and helped provide transport, housing and care for the dogs.

Haughton Chief of Police Todd Gibson acknowledged Sheriff Jason Parker, Deputy David Dick and the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, LAMA Animal Rescue and Bossier Parish animal control for assisting with the case.

Gibson also complimented the work of his officers who were forced to work through horrible conditions inside the residence.

“We’re ready and willing to do anything we can to help a neighboring law enforcement agency,” Parker said. “I’m glad we were able to provide the resources necessary to help rescue these animals.”

According to information, the dogs are currently visiting a veterinarian for examinations, then will be heading to LaMa for further care.

Reports say Massara has been charged with 13 counts of animal cruelty, and is currently being held on a $460,000 bond at the Bossier Maximum Facility. Haughton officers are continuing to investigate the incident.

Anyone interested in assisting with the care of the animals may make monetary contributions or donate Purina One Dog Food, cleaning supplies, bleach, towels and detergent. Any contributions may be delivered to the Haughton Police Department at 120 W. McKilney Ave.

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By Pat Culverhouse

A teenage suspect wanted in connection with an alleged robbery attempt where shots were fired at an occupied vehicle is now in custody after he reportedly turned himself in to Minden police last week.

Chief of Police Jared McIver said 17-year-old Tyson Franklin, who listed an address in the 100 block of Shreve Dr. in Minden, surrendered to authorities Thursday, May 22. Franklin reportedly is being held in the Jackson Parish Correctional Facility.

He is facing multiple charges including attempted simple burglary, attempted armed robbery, illegal use of weapons, illegal possession of handgun by a juvenile, possession of a firearm by convicted felon and aggravated criminal damage to property. Franklin’s total bond on all charges has been set at $221,000.

Police investigators said Franklin was one of three individuals who reportedly attempted to rob a motorist in the parking lot of a convenience store on the Shreveport Rd. in the early morning hours of Thursday, May 15. Shots reportedly were fired at the vehicle as it sped away.

Franklin and two others, 18-year-olds Jaylen Shine and Ralterrian Reeder, were also allegedly involved in attempted vehicle break-ins in the Roosevelt Dr. neighborhood earlier in the evening. Shine and Reeder were arrested Saturday, May 17. Both are jailed on charges of attempted simple burglary and attempted armed robbery.

Minden officers patrolling the Shreveport Rd. area shortly after 1 a.m. May 15 reportedly heard between six and 10 gunshots in the area near Circle K. As those officers responded, homeowners in the Roosevelt Dr. area reported three males attempting to break into vehicles.

Original Story

https://websterparishjournal.com/2025/05/20/two-arrested-one-sought-in-alleged-armed-robbery-attempt-thursday/

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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Parker Davidson of Minden, an Atmospheric Sciences major, was named to the University of Louisiana Monroe’s Spring 2025 President’s List.

Parker is the son of Brian and Laura Davidson and Beverly and the late Mike Mayfield, all of Minden; he is the grandson of Patti and Billy Guin of Fredericksburg, TX, and Lane and Trish Davidson of Minden.

Eligibility for the President’s List requires full-time enrollment (minimum 12 semester hours completed) and the list is calculated based on the following GPA hours and term GPA; an undergraduate student is required to earn at least a 3.9 grade point average.

Parker is a 2024 graduate of Minden High School.

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Wednesday

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Wednesday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Calm wind.

Thursday

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 4 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 81. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Thursday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Friday

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10 a.m., then a slight chance of showers between 10 a.m. and 1.p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 60.

* Info provided by National Weather Service.

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On May 25, 1983, I was 21 years old—lost and heading nowhere fast. That night, I was speeding down 4th Street in my hometown of Hattiesburg, headlights off, 90 mph, foot on the gas. It was 2 a.m. Three police cars chased behind me, blue lights flashing. Reckless. Irresponsible. Dangerous. I don’t remember much else—except the DUI. I was due.

And it was the best thing that ever happened to me.

The next day, I was in rehab in Jackson. From there, I went to a halfway house in Omaha. I didn’t know it then, but both places saved my life. I haven’t had a drink since. Not even a sip. Nothing stronger than an aspirin.

That was forty-two years ago this week.

Back then, I didn’t expect to live to 30—though at the rate I was going, I likely wouldn’t have made it to 25. I’d given up on myself. But God hadn’t. That made the difference.

There’s something I’ve learned about rock bottom: you don’t have to claw your way back to the surface, rung by rung, just to reach the neutral ground of normalcy. At the bottom, for those of us in recovery, there’s a door. A door that opens—not back to the life we had, but onward to a completely different life. A better one—healthier, more spiritual, more fulfilling. It’s not easy, but it’s worth every step.

When I was out there—drinking, drugging—I was chasing pleasure. That’s it. Liquid pleasure. Chemical pleasure. Sexual pleasure. The whole game was about feeling good fast. Pleasure isn’t bad. But it fades. It’s surface-level. It’s fleeting. Mostly empty. Once I removed the alcohol and drugs, I experienced happiness. Then, as I worked on the spiritual side of life, I found joy—and I learned that joy was what I’d been looking for in the alcohol and drugs.

Joy is available to me today. I don’t walk around in some constant state of bliss, but it’s there. And it comes without the complicated pain and consequences that life in active addiction brings.

Bottom line: my brain processes alcohol differently. Always has. From the time I took that first drink, it was fun. For a while. Then it was fun with problems. And before long, just problems. That’s the arc—a straight shot downhill.

I used to think recovery was punishment. Turns out, it was freedom. That halfway house in Omaha wasn’t a dead end. It was the beginning of a life I couldn’t have imagined.

I still don’t understand why I was given another chance. Why I got help when so many don’t. Why grace showed up when I had nothing to offer. But it did. And I’m thankful every day for that undeserved mercy.

I wish someone had told me then to write down what I hoped for in life. A list. Just a few honest lines about what a sober life might look like. I know now I would’ve undershot it. By a mile. Because this life—this clean and sober life—has given me more than I ever thought to ask for. Not through merit. Through grace.

Not money. Not status. Not stuff. The real things. Love. Peace. Real friends. Faith. A clear head. A steady heart. A way to live. The chance to help others. The strength to show up. Day after day. Year after year. The quiet joy of a life without consequences.

I’ve made plenty of mistakes over the years, but I haven’t had to pay the price that drinking used to demand. I still have problems—life guarantees that—but not the kind tied to addiction. That’s the gift of a recovery program: problems are part of life, but consequences don’t have to be.

The men and women who sat with me in meetings when I had nothing to give… who shared their stories without judgment and carried me until I could stand… I owe them more than I can ever repay.

There was a time I was embarrassed to be labeled a recovering alcoholic or addict. I went into rehab at 21, and it felt like a stigma. What I eventually learned is that it’s a disease. Some people have psoriasis. Some have diabetes. Some end up with cancer. I’m an alcoholic. People with psoriasis use a cream. Diabetics take insulin. Cancer patients undergo chemo. I work a spiritual program built on 12 steps and community. I don’t spend time lamenting the fact. My life is much better than I ever could’ve imagined outside of recovery.

None of this came from grit or willpower. If I got what I deserved, I wouldn’t be here writing this. I’d be dead or in jail. I’m not sober because I’m strong—I’m sober because grace caught me before the fall killed me.

I’ve got a program that works. Twelve steps. A fellowship. Service. Prayer. Honesty. Gratitude. And when I live by those principles—not just talk about them, but live them—I have a life worth living. I’m not perfect at it. But I try to get a little better each day.

Sobriety has given me things alcohol only promised. Alcohol promised confidence. Sobriety gave me peace. Alcohol promised fun. Sobriety gave me joy. Alcohol promised connection. Sobriety gave me solid, honest relationships.

And the biggest surprise? I haven’t missed a thing. Not one. The life I thought I’d lose by getting sober turned out to be no life at all. This is the real thing. And I’m more grateful than I can express in words.

These days, I’m vocal about my recovery. I never kept it anonymous, but about a decade ago, I decided to be more public with it. If my story can help even one person who’s struggling, I’m happy to share it. I get phone calls all the time—from folks in trouble or their loved ones—asking questions, seeking guidance. I don’t have all, or even most, of the answers. But I can share my experience, strength, and hope. I can tell them what it was like, what happened, and what it’s like for me now. If that helps them, great. If not, it still helps me. Keeps me grounded. Keeps me sober.

If it worked for someone like me—a scared, ashamed 21-year-old kid with a DUI and a head full of fog—it can work for anyone. I’m nothing special. I just reached out and held on.

If you’re in early recovery, do me a favor: make a list. Write down everything you want out of your life. Be honest. Dream big. Bigger than you think you deserve. Fold it up and put it away. Stay sober. One day—maybe five, ten, or even forty-two years from now—you’ll pull it out and see how small it really was. And how big your life became.

I’ve been trusted with work I love—six restaurants, teams I care about, trips I get to share with people I enjoy. I never expected it. I don’t take it for granted. Every bit of it feels like borrowed light.

But none of it matters if I’m not sober. None of it exists without recovery. That’s the cornerstone. Everything else is just brick and mortar.

God can. God will. If sought.

I’ve seen it again and again. People who seek a new life, and put one foot in front of the other, find one. 

Forty-two years later, I’m still on the journey. Still learning. Still growing. Still showing up. And still grateful. That’s the key to all of it: gratitude. For the people who helped me. For the program that changed me. For the God who never gave up on me.

I say “thank you” a lot more these days. Sometimes under my breath. Sometimes with tears. Always with my whole heart.

That door at the bottom? It’s real. It opens. And behind it is a life full of meaning, connection, and grace.

If you’re struggling, please know this: I’m no expert. Just a grateful man who was shown a better way. And I’m here, if you ever need someone who understands.

601-270-7129. 

Onward.

PECAN PESTO 

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. 

2 cups packed fresh basil leaves, washed well and spun dry
2/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup pecans, toasted golden brown and cooled
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan
2 large garlic cloves, chopped and mashed to a paste with 1/2 teaspoon salt 

In a food processor blend together all ingredients with salt and pepper to taste until smooth.(Pesto keeps, surface covered with plastic wrap, chilled, 1 week.) 

Makes about 1 1/4 cups.
 Gourmet

August 1995

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As school ends, Vacation Bible Schools all over the parish begin. If your church is hosting one of these events this summer, please email your information to wpjnewsla@gmail.com and we will publish it in a special calendar. Thank you!

June 23 through June 26

9 a.m. until noon, Breaker Rock Beach Vacation Bible School at Lakeview Methodist Church, 301 Lakeshore Drive, Minden. Preschool through fifth grade. Register online at www.lakeviewminden.com or print and email the completed form to lakeviewunite365@bellsouth.net .

June 27 through June 27

6 until 8:30 p.m. Magnified! Discovering the Bigness of God in the Smallest of Things. North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Rd., Minden.

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No matter what season we are currently experiencing in our lives, we must trust God during the process. 

You might be in a waiting season, a testing and trial season, a spiritual warfare season, or a happy season.  No matter what season you are in, just know seasons do change.

Just like winter, fall, spring and summer, each season has its own purpose.  One season it’s cold, one season it’s hot, one season the flowers bloom and the other season the leaves change colors. 

Keep the faith no matter what  spiritual season you are going through in your life.  God is in control!

2 Corinthians 5:7

For we walk by faith, not by sight.

No matter what it looks like, no matter what you’re going through, no matter how you feel! Push..Press..Pray Your Way…..Trust God during the process, even when it doesn’t make sense!  There are many seasons in our lives. 

I have discovered on this journey called life that God does his best work in our lives when it doesn’t make sense to our natural understanding and we depend totally on God. 

Proverbs 3:5-6

5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

We must trust God and keep believing that all things will work together for our good, and God will get the glory!!!!

No rain, no sunshine. No pain, no power! No test, no testimony! No mess, no message!

Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

In this season, you have to disconnect yourself from negative people! Your connection determines your deliverance. A positive person finds opportunity in everything, but negative person will find fault in everything.

Make sure you’re connected to the power source, Jesus, and some people who are going to pray with you and for you.  Some people who will help you without gossiping about your circumstances. 

Choose your circle wisely in this season.  Bad company corrupts good character!

1 Corinthians 15:33

Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.

Ecclesiastes 3:1

1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, forgive us for all our sins known and unknown. 

Help us to trust you, no matter what we are going through. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Be Encouraged!

All Glory Goes To God.

(LaTina DeLoach, is a devoted wife and mother who shares these words in hopes of uplifting those who read what God writes through her.)

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that on Thursday, May 29 and Friday, May 30, there will be intermittent lane closures on the inside (left) lanes of I-20 eastbound and westbound at the LA 531 interchange near Minden in Webster Parish.

These lane closures are scheduled to take place from approximately 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, and are necessary to allow the contractor for the ongoing LA 531 overpass replacement project to perform work in the median.

Work is continuing to construct the two roundabouts that are included in the project that will improve traffic flow and relieve congestion at the on and off-ramps, as well as other paving operations. Traffic is currently flowing over the newly built overpass.

The entire project remains on track to wrap up in mid-Summer 2025, weather and other factors permitting.

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In place for protection from batted balls, the chest-high fence in front of baseball dugouts is perfect to lean of if you’re an armpit, but it doesn’t protect from armpits up, which is why you see players scatter like a jailbreak when the occasional foul ball stinger comes shooting through there, looking for an target.

But sometimes, the fence doesn’t serve its purpose, which is to protect from armpits down. You’d think it would. That’s why it’s there. But …

Neg.

Such is life, funny dog that she is.

There are cutouts on each end for players and coaches to walk into and out of the dugout. They are athletes, but you can’t expect them to vault a fence dozens of times a game, just to get to their water or glove or bathroom or a place to sit, then back onto the field.

And it was through one of those openings that an unsuspecting player was targeted this past week at the Conference USA 2025 Baseball Championship in Lynchburg, Va.

Thank goodness it wasn’t a player from Louisiana Tech, the defending regular-season champs but the fifth-seed in the 2025 tournament and the fourth team dismissed in the eight-team tournament. Against one win in Lynchburg, they lost for the second and final time on Friday, the anniversary of the end of Bonnie and Clyde in 1934 just down the road from Ruston in Gibsland so … things could have been worse.

Regardless, this tale from the dugout, while not as historically significant, is a sad and timeless one.

A player was minding his own business in the first-base dugout when a teammate, a right-handed batter, swung late on a pitch and lasered the foul ball through his dugout and, most unintentionally, into his teammate, who was met by the stitched orb of a missile right below the equator — if you know what I mean and I think you do.

If you buckled a bit when you read that, you are a guy. You’ve been there. It is not a good place to be. It’s not a good place to visit or even to contemplate. But … these things happen.

The player immediately hit the dugout floor, as anyone but Superman would have. Even Superman would probably have had to take a leotarded knee in this, the most delicate of situations.

A baseball to the nether regions is kryptonite for us all.

It took a minute — an agonizing, long, torturous trial — but the young man was able to keep playing, although with his senses now heightened in every way imaginable, and his young knees somewhat weak. It took a methodical and purposeful, slow, laborious rise to the bent position, followed by an eventual seat on the bench, some cautious re-arranging, and he was as ready to go as any male could be in such a situation.

Hey, it was championship baseball. All hands and all body parts, even sore ones, on deck.

Good for the team in that he didn’t have to play in the field since he was the designated hitter. He will tell you from that bitter experience, being the designated hitter is much better than being the designated hittee.

I had never seen that before. Well, I HAD seen it before, up close and personal. And such an incident is not unusual in athletics, body parts and balls flying this way and that. But to thread the needle with a foul ball through the dugout door and right into the most private of parts, that was a new one on me. And a painful one on the innocent, most unsuspecting player.

There are all kinds of ballpark hurts, of course. Physical ones hardly ever last. But the emotional ones — the loss to a rival, losing The Big Game, the end of a season — those stay with you a while.

Those are the most painful cuts of all. Those hit you where it really hurts. 

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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Dodson Ranch in Coushatta will be the site of a real Hay Day Thursday, June 12. Anyone in the hay and grass business or anyone interested in it, is invited to RSVP at Red River Parish Extension Office of the LSU AgCenter – 318-932-4342 – for a daylong adventure into the business.

The day includes Armyworm Control, Bermuidagrasws Varieties, Sprigging Bermudagrass, Herbicide Update, Vendor Visits and Equipment Demonstrations. Oh, and of course, lunch.

The event is also sponsored by Southern AgCredit.

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

May 28

10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Minden Senior Health & Fitness at Minden Rec Center.  Free for seniors 50 and older.  Numerous vendors, health tips, BINGO, and door prizes.  Sponsored by Minden Medical Center.

May 28 through June 28

Discovery Camp, Webster Parish Libraries. Visit https://www.websterpl.org/about-4-1 for more information and registration.

May 30

6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.) Seeds Women’s Center “Totally 80s Bingo.” Minden Civic Center, 520 Broadway, Minden. Sponsorships needed. Call Amber Bradford at 318-639-0907 for more information.

June 2

5 until 7 p.m. Big Burger Fundraiser, sponsored by Women Helping Others and benefiting Leighton Gilbert. Pick up or dine in at the Lucky Pup. Main Street Patio across from Spring Theatre, Springhill. The Lucky Pup will remain open late for shopping during the sale. The Spring Theatre will be showing the new Stitch movie at 7.

June 13 and 14

Grilling on Main BBQ Competition, downtown Minden.Two-day non-sanctioned BBQ competition.

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By Brad Dison

Louise Ciccone was born in 1958 in Bay City, Michigan to Tony and Louise Ciccone.  Because she shared the same name as her mother, her five siblings called her Little Nonnie.  Little Nonnie was five years old when her mother died from breast cancer.  Her father was a hard worker but struggled to provide for his large family.  When one of the kids wanted something, Tony replied, “Get a job.  I’m not paying for it.”  Tony could barely afford the necessities.

In high school, Little Nonnie was intelligent, got straight A’s in school, but struggled to fit in.  Little Nonnie felt like a country bumpkin around her rich classmates.  They wore the finest and most fashionable clothing while she often wore the same inexpensive clothing for several days in a row.  Little Nonnie’s home life was difficult.  As the eldest daughter in a family without a mother, she was responsible for doing the laundry, cleaning the house, fixing meals, taking care of her younger siblings, and a myriad of other tasks required to keep a household running while her father was working.  For these reasons, Little Nonnie did not associate with her classmates. 

Little Nonnie graduated from high school early and attended the University of Michigan for a year as a dance major.  She planned to become a professional dancer to escape from Michigan, and she was a natural.  With the encouragement of one of her teachers, Little Nonnie decided to move to New York to fulfill her dream despite her father’s objections.  Her first time in an airplane was her flight from Michigan to New York.  From the airport, she took her first taxi ride.  With no idea where to go, Little Nonnie told the taxi driver to take her to the center of the city.  He dropped her off in Times Square.  Little Nonnie immediately experienced the culture shock of coming from the suburbs of the Midwest into the hustle and bustle of Manhattan.  She knew no one, had no place to stay, had about $35 in cash, and wore all of the clothing she brought with her.  She quickly made friends with someone who asked why she was wearing a winter jacket in the middle of summer.  He allowed her to sleep on his couch until she found a place to stay.

Little Nonnie began going to auditions.  She knew her dancing career waited just around the corner, but getting around that corner proved harder than she had expected.  In the meantime, Little Nonnie worked at whatever job she could find including a short stint as a hat check girl at the Russian Tea Room, a job she was fired from for wearing fishnet stockings although she was only visible from the waist up, and an even shorter stint at Dunkin’ Donuts, a job she was fired from for playfully squirting jelly on customers.  While waiting for her big break, Little Nonnie’s apartment was burglarized repeatedly.  She was mugged.  She was raped.   

Despite all the obstacles, Little Nonnie never gave up.  She eventually became a dancer, but her talents led her to a blend of world renown and controversy.  The highest selling musical artists of all time in order are Elvis, the Beatles, Michael Jackson, and then Little Nonnie.   Although some members of her family still refer to her as Little Nonnie, the rest of the world knows Louise Ciccone by her first name, Madonna.

Source: “The Howard Stern Show 2015 Madonna,” Vincenzo Depalma, June 20, 2024, YouTube video, 1:15:35,  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=El0crjdU2Nw

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Almer J Robertson, 53, Henderson Hill Rd., Spearsville: arrested May 22 by WPSO for DWI first offense, hit and run, careless operation, possession of alcohol in a motor vehicle. Bond set $2,000.

Sara Ann McDonald, 39, 400 block Strong St., Doyline: arrested May 22 by WPSO on multiple outstanding warrants. Bond set $2,250.

Gnya Knowles, 24, 200 block Nursery Rd., Sibley: arrested May 22 by WPSO on outstanding warrants. No bond set.

Timothy James Bassinger, 20, 2300 block Levy St., Shreveport: arrested May 23 by WPSO for theft of motor vehicle. Bond set $30,000.

Steven Duane Raymond, 38, 5900 block Hwy. 80, Arcadia: arrested May 23 by WPSO on outstanding warrant for simple battery. Bond set $500.

Freddie L. Colvin, 32, Trailer Park Dr., Sibley: arrested May 24 by WPSO on outstanding warrant. No bond set.

John L. Franklin, 75, 600 block Constable St., Minden: arrested May 25 by WPSO on warrant for failure to appear. No bond set.

Shannon Thompson, 49, 100 block Hickory St., Springhill: arrested May 21 by Springhill PD on warrant for simple burglary. Bond set $5,000.

Roy K. Shehee, 72, 100 block Washington St., Minden: arrested May 23 by Minden PD on multiple warrants. Bond set $2,400 cash or $40,000 surety.

Christopher Erin Hunt, 32, 500 block Marshall St., Minden: arrested May 24 by Minden PD on outstanding warrants. Bond set $1,500.

John L. Franklin, Jr., 52, 500 block W.R. Reeder, Minden: arrested May 26 by Minden PD on fugitive warrant from Bossier Parish SO. No bond set.

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

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Rodney Dooley

December 25, 1959 — May 24, 2025

Minden, La.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Friday, May 30, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Burial: Pine Grove Methodist Church, Minden.

Nelwyn Marcine Simpson

December 15, 1931 — May 23, 2025

Minden, La.

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 28, 2025, Mt. Zion Cemetery, Minden.

Nancy Charlene Meeker

January 3, 1955 — May 19, 2025

Minden, La.

Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

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

Michael L. Beckham

December 5, 1967 — May 22, 2025

Doyline, La.

Visitation: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 28, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home Chapel, Minden.

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

Burial: Doyline Cemetery.

Robert J. (Bobby) Smith

November 7, 1953 — May 18, 2025

Minden, La.

Graveside service: 1 p.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, Gardens of Memory Cemetery under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

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

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By Pat Culverhouse

A dispute between gamblers during a dice game at a Minden residence Thursday evening erupted in gunfire and a local man is in custody for allegedly shooting at a vehicle attempting to flee the scene.

Chief of Police Jared McIver said charges of illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities, aggravated criminal damage to property and gambling have been filed against 20-year-old Dakota Richardson as a result of the incident.

McIver said no one was injured when Richardson allegedly fired multiple shots toward the vehicle as it sped away from the residence in the 1000 block of Pine St.

Investigators said a group of men were reportedly shooting dice at the residence when Richardson and another man became involved in an argument. Richardson reportedly went into his bedroom, followed by others in the group.

Once inside the bedroom, investigators said Richardson claimed the men shoved him to the floor, grabbed his assault rifle and ran from the residence. Richardson reportedly claimed the men pointed the rifle in his direction as he ran after them.

Richardson allegedly retrieved a .40 caliber handgun and fired approximately five shots toward the vehicle. During a later search of the vehicle, officers reportedly found one bullet fragment in the front passenger headrest and another on the rear driver’s side floorboard.

Richardson reportedly is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. No bond has been set.

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

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By Josh Beavers

Chase Spatafora’s journey from Union Parish High School to the baseball diamond at LSU Shreveport, and now to the coaching ranks at Lakeside High School, reads like a testament to perseverance and passion for the game.

The Ruston native, who graduated from Union Parish in 2016, spent five years playing collegiate baseball at LSU Shreveport, including a memorable run to the World Series in 2021. Like many student-athletes, his college career wasn’t without challenges—COVID-19 interrupted one of his seasons—but those experiences only strengthened his resolve.

“Playing at the collegiate level, especially being part of a World Series team, taught me what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Spatafora reflects. “That experience showed me the importance of consistent intensity and having a strong work ethic every single day.”

After hanging up his cleats, Spatafora transitioned into coaching at Natchitoches Central High School, where he spent two years honing his skills as an assistant baseball coach, assistant football coach, and director of the strength and conditioning program. Those varied roles prepared him well for his new dual position at Lakeside.

Now serving as both head baseball coach and assistant football coach under Coach Ware, Spatafora brings ambitious goals to his new home. For baseball, his objectives are crystal clear: “We want to win the district championship and ultimately compete for a state title. Lakeside has a winning tradition, and I’m here to continue that legacy.”

His approach centers on setting clear expectations and fostering daily improvement. “I tell my players that we’re going to bring consistent intensity to everything we do,” Spatafora explains. “Whether it’s practice, games, or conditioning, we’re going to work hard and get better every single day.”

The football side of his responsibilities excites him equally. Working alongside Coach Ware, Spatafora will step into a defensive coordinator role while continuing to collaborate on the school’s strength and conditioning programs. “Coach Ware is building something special here, and I’m eager to contribute to that success,” he says.

Beyond the X’s and O’s, Spatafora emphasizes the importance of truly knowing his players. His commitment extends into the summer months, where he’ll coach 34 games of summer baseball and work with the Little Warriors program. “I want to know these kids through baseball,” he states. “The relationships we build off the field directly impact what we can accomplish on it.”

This community-focused approach aligns perfectly with Lakeside’s supportive environment, something that drew Spatafora to the position. “The community support here at Lakeside is incredible,” he notes. “Having that backing makes a huge difference in building a strong program.”

Personal stability provides a solid foundation for his professional ambitions. Spatafora married his wife Brittany this past December, after three and a half years together. “Having that support at home allows me to fully commit to these kids and this program,” he acknowledges.

As he embarks on this new chapter, Spatafora’s vision extends beyond wins and losses. He’s focused on developing not just skilled players, but young men who understand the value of hard work and dedication. “We’re going to build something special here,” he promises. “The tradition is already in place—now it’s time to add our own chapter to Lakeside’s story.”

With championship experience as a player and a growing reputation as a dedicated coach, Spatafora represents the kind of leadership that can elevate a program. His dual role in baseball and football, combined with his community engagement, positions him as a cornerstone for Lakeside’s athletic future.

The expectations are high, but so is his determination. “Every day is an opportunity to get better,” Spatafora concludes. “That’s the mindset and I believe great things are going to happen.”

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Tuesday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 84. South wind around 5 mph becoming west in the morning.

Tuesday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. Calm wind.

Wednesday

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 82. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.

Wednesday Night

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10 p.m, then a slight chance of showers between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 66. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

* Info provided by National Weather Service.

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As school ends, Vacation Bible Schools all over the parish begin. If your church is hosting one of these events this summer, please email your information to wpjnewsla@gmail.com and we will publish it in a special calendar. Thank you!

June 23 through June 26

9 a.m. until noon, Breaker Rock Beach Vacation Bible School at Lakeview Methodist Church, 301 Lakeshore Drive, Minden. Preschool through fifth grade. Register online at www.lakeviewminden.com or print and email the completed form to lakeviewunite365@bellsouth.net .

June 27 through June 27

6 until 8:30 p.m. Magnified! Discovering the Bigness of God in the Smallest of Things. North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Rd., Minden.

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The streets of historic downtown Minden will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of barbecue and the sounds of community celebration as Grilling on Main returns for its highly anticipated annual event June 13 and 14.

This family-friendly festival will feature a barbecue cook-off, live entertainment, food vendors, fireworks and more—all set in the charming heart of downtown Minden. Whether you’re a competitive griller or simply a fan of good food and southern hospitality, Grilling on Main offers something for everyone.

“This event has become a true tradition for Minden,” said Sarah Overall, Main Street Director,  “We’re proud to showcase our talented grillers, celebrate community, and bring people together for a weekend of fun, flavor, and fellowship.”

Highlights of the event include:

• Barbecue Cook-Off: Teams from across the region will compete for bragging rights and cash prizes. Judging categories include ribs, chicken, brisket, and people’s choice.
• Live Music & Entertainment: Enjoy performances from Flight Delay on Friday evening ending the night with a downtown firework show. Saturday entertainment will begin at 11am.
• Vendors & Food Trucks: Browse local crafts, specialty items, and savor a variety of food and beverage options.
• Cornhole Tournament and Little Grillers Competition: Fan favorites every year!

Admission is free and open to the public. Proceeds from the event benefit the Friends of Minden Main Street, a 501(c)(3) organization. This organization partners with the City of Minden for the Main Street America program.

For cook-off registration, vendor inquiries, or more information, visit mainstreetminden.com.

Come hungry and leave happy at Grilling on Main – Minden’s smokin’ summer celebration!

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