The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division is alerting the boating public about a flare safety recall.

Orion Safety Products, the manufacturer of the hand-launched Skyblazer II Red XLT Aerial Signals (“XLTs”) flare received a report indicating that an XLT ignited without the safety cap being removed or the ignition cord being pulled. The report and photographs indicate that the flare did not launch but burned in place.

As Orion continues to investigate, this recall and product quarantine encompasses all XLT products with the following revised impacted Orion product numbers and expiration dates: Product Numbers 769, 855/855A, and 859, with expiration dates of August 2028 through April 2029. Orion is advising all owners of these flares to immediately stop using them and to store them in a safe and secure location away from combustible products until further notice.

Orion has posted instructions for its recommended procedure to quarantine impacted XLTs on its website at https://www.orionsignals.com/project/recall-notices/.

Orion is currently conducting an exhaustive investigation as to the cause of the reported incident. Once more information is known, Orion will provide more information on how they will collect and destroy the recalled flares and when a replacement product will be provided.

Orion has notified the U.S. Coast Guard and the Consumer Product Safety Commission of this occurrence.

URGENT SAFETY RECALL AND PRODUCT QUARANTINE

Skyblazer II Red XLT Aerial Signals

Updated November 26, 2025

Incidence Report. Orion Safety Products, the manufacturer of the hand-launched Skyblazer II Red XLT Aerial Signals (“XLTs”) received a report indicating that an XLT ignited without the safety cap being removed or the ignition cord being pulled. The report and photographs indicate that the flare did not launch but burned in place. There were no reported injuries.

Impacted XLTs. As Orion continues to investigate, this recall and product quarantine encompasses all XLT products with the below REVISED impacted Orion product numbers and Expiration Dates:

Product Numbers 769, 855/855A and 859 with an Expiration Date of August 2028 through April 2029

Quarantine. As the investigation continues, Orion is directing all customers, distributors, dealers and consumers to:

Immediately stop using all XLT signals with the Expiration Dates noted in Section B above.

Quarantine all impacted XLTs and store the product in a safe and secure location away from combustible products until further notice.

Orion has posted instructions for its recommended procedure to quarantine impacted XLTs on its website at https://www.orionsignals.com/project/recall-notices/.

Next Steps. Orion is currently conducting an exhaustive investigation as to the cause of the reported incident. Once more information is known, Orion will contact you to provide more information, including:

How Orion will arrange for collection/destruction of quarantined product

How and when replacement product will be provided

As more information becomes available Orion will post updates on its website.

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Most residents are familiar with protecting the traditional “Four P’s” during cold weather, People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants. This weekend, we are asking you to help us introduce and emphasize a fifth

P: Press.
Press the Button on Your Smoke Alarm
We are urging residents to press the test button on their smoke alarms to make sure they are working properly. This simple step can save lives. If the smoke alarm does not work, replace the battery or replace the unit with a newer smoke alarm that comes with 10-year sealed lithium batteries.

So far this year, 82 people have died in 63 house fires. Of those fires, only two homes had working smoke alarms.

These numbers underscore how critical it is for families to have functioning smoke alarms, especially during freezing weather when the use of heaters and other heat sources increases. A working smoke alarm gives families the critical early warning they need to get out safely.

Key On-Air Talking Points
A strong winter blast will push temperatures into the mid to upper 20s.
Remind viewers about the Five P’s:
People – Dress in layers, check on vulnerable neighbors (elderly, children).
Pets – Bring them inside or provide warm shelter.
Pipes – Insulate or drip faucets to prevent freezing.
Plants – Cover or bring sensitive plants indoors.
Press – Press the test button on smoke alarms to ensure they are working.
House-fire deaths remain high, and functioning smoke alarms are one of the most effective tools for early detection and escape.

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We may recall Al Gore, in his documentary, An Inconvenient Truth, focused on climate change.  The film included a moving clip of a ‘sad, animated polar bear floating away to its death’ suggesting that global warming would cause the extinction of the polar bear population.  But Gore doesn’t talk about polar bears anymore.

Why not? According to climate scientist, Bjorn Lomborg, ‘Because after years of misrepresentation, it finally became impossible for them to ignore a mountain of evidence showing that the global polar bear population has increased substantially from around 12,000 in the 1960s to around 26,000 in the present day. 

The same is true for the ‘greatly exaggerated’ demise of the Great Coral Reefs after public media was deluged with reports of the “Great Reef Catastrophe” which predicted global destruction by 2022.  However, according to the latest official statistics, a completely different picture emerges.  For the past three years, the Great Barrier Reef has had more coral cover than at any point since records began in 1985, with 2024 setting a new record.

President Biden once read from a note card, “extreme heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States.”  However, again according to Lomborg, Biden was ‘wrong by a factor of 25.’  “While extreme heat annually kills nearly 6,000 people, cold kills 152,000 Americans each year, of which 12,000 die from extreme cold …”

I also note a recent Wall Street Journal article entitled “A Climate Study Retraction for the Ages.”  WSJ observes that “one scandal of our age is the attempt to sell the public on the narrative of climate catastrophe.  It’s been fed by the press and overheated political and scientific claims that sometimes are phony.” (12-10-2025).  That’s the case with the retraction by the journal, Nature, of a 2024 climate study.  In the study, scientists projected that climate change could cause $38 trillion in economic damage a year by 2049.  It also ominously predicted that rising CO2 emissions would cause a 62% reduction in global GDP by 2100 …”  

However, problems with the methodology and errors in the data were discovered, prompting Nature to issue corrections.  Then, after additional criticisms, Nature retracted the study because the premise had been completely undermined.  “In other words, the economic harm from climate change no longer exceeded the costs of the government interventions to do something to arrest warming temperatures.”

WSJ questions “why the study’s glaring errors weren’t caught by peer reviewers before it was published?” One likely answer is “conformity bias” wherein reviewers abandon scientific honesty because they aren’t comfortable advancing information that undermines “the narrative that humanity is killing the planet and the entire world economy must be rearranged to prevent it.”

Climate change is indisputable.  Our climate has always changed including long before man was ever on the earth!  Earth’s temperature occurs in certain rhythmic cycles and did so long before humans appeared on earth, approximately 200,000 years ago.  So, honest science reflects that humans are not the principal cause of climate change, but the Climate Change Religionists stay fanatically focused on it anyway.  

“While there is an increase in carbon dioxide, that increase is not being driven largely by human industry.  We are contributing to it … but 90% of global warming is occurring in the ocean causing the internal heat of the waters to increase.”  So, the oceans are “warming from underneath.  The glaciers are melting from underneath.”  (Gregg Braden, Geologist, Computer Scientist, expert in Applied Earth Sciences). 

Climate Religionists have been advancing doomsday scenarios for decades now.   Acid rain would deforest large swaths of the globe; there would be another ice age; the ozone would disappear; global warming would melt the world’s glaciers.  Now, the “world is on fire!” but the percentage of the globe that burns each year has been declining since 2001.  (B. Lomborg, Wall St. Journal, 8-1-23).   

None of it has happened.  In fact, in the last 200 years the temperature of the earth has increased, slightly and erratically, by only about 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit. (Richard Lindzen, MIT Physicist. 04-18-2016)

The reason so many Americans don’t believe the narrative of climate change “apocalypse” is because they simply don’t trust the “science.”

On a personal note—during Shreveport’s recent much-earlier-than-normal cold snap, I was fumbling my cold car keys with cold hands trying to open the car door on a frigid morning.  I could not help but think, where the heck is global warming when you need it?

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

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United Christian Assistance Program has the following needs:

Food: rice, biscuit mix, spaghetti sauce, dried beans

Clothing: coats, men’s shoes, men’s long-sleeved shirts

Household Goods: twin & queen sheets, pots & pans

Thanks to all for supporting UCAP!! Have a blessed Christmas season!

We will be closed Dec. 24, Christmas Eve, and Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve. 

UCAP is open from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at 204 Miller Street, Minden, for food, utility and rent assistance. Clothing is dispersed on Wednesdays only.

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Tuesday

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 53. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the morning.

Tuesday Night

A 20 percent chance of rain after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 43. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Wednesday

A 30 percent chance of rain. Cloudy, with a high near 61. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night

A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 55.

Thursday

A 40 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 69.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

A “Christmas Canned Food Drive” is currently ongoing to help Barbara Goston and Food 4 the Soul to “help support families in our community this Christmas season.” Drop-off locations are Good Home Center, 304 Homer Road; State Farm Insurance, 704 Main Street; Century Loans, 1214 Homer Road; and Carter Credit Union, 918 Homer Road. For more information, email food4thesoul@gmail.com.

Dec. 16

7 p.m. Shreveport-Bossier Choral Ensemble, First Methodist Minden’s Sanctuary, 903 Broadway.

Dec. 18

6 p.m. Kid’s Night, Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry, 814 Constable St., Minden, pre-registration required, donations of cereal, bread, canned soups or blankets much appreciated.

Dec. 18 and 19

7 until 9 p.m. Parkway Baptist Church Live Nativity, Minden, refreshments provided.

Dec. 20

2 p.m. Town of Cotton Valley Christmas Parade. Theme: Jingle All the Way. Line up at school at 12:45 p.m.

6 until 8 p.m. Community Wide Living Nativity presented by church of the historic district in Minden.

Dec. 23

Noon until 3 p.m., Project Reclaim of Louisiana and Food 4 the Soul are the headlining sponsors for “Free Dinner Plates for the Community,” American Legion Hall (119 W. Pine Street, Minden.) If you want to help, call Barbara Goston with Food 4 the Soul at 318-639-7434.

Dec. 24

6 p.m. Christmas Eve Service, Sanctuary of First Methodist Church, Minden.

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Rochaun Thomas, 58, no address (homeless): arrested Dec. 10 by Minden PD for misdemeanor theft. Bond set $500.

Jardarius Markray, 31, 1300 block Pecan Square, Bossier City: arrested Dec. 11 by Louisiana State Police on fugitive warrant from Minden PD, resisting arrest, on felony warrant. No bond set.

Amanda M. Harris, 50, 100 block Spencer Lane, Doyline: arrested Dec. 11 by Doyline PD for possession of CDS Sch. III (Suboxone). No bond set.

Dwayne DeQuan Walker, 26, 400 block N. Park Dr., Springhill: arrested Dec. 12 bin WPSO for speeding, on warrants for failure to use seat belts, vehicle without required equipment. No bond set.

Lamika Hamilton, 47, 100 block Kidd Dr., Homer: arrested Dec. 12 by Louisiana State Police for driving under suspension, on warrant from Webster Parish SO for failure to appear. Bond set $751.

George L. Farrington, 31, 600 block Couchwood Rd., Cotton Valley: arrested Dec. 13 by WPSO on warrants for failure to appear, driving under suspension. No bond set.

Stephanie Taylor, 31, 21000 block Hwy. 371, Cotton Valley: arrested Dec. 14 by WPSO on warrant for remaining after forbidden. No bond set.

Xzavier D. Kimble, 18, 200 block Oak St., Cullen: arrested Dec. 15 by WPSO on warrant for illegal use of weapons. No bond set.

Peyton Blaine Dick, 19, 2200 block Walnut Rd., Springhill: arrested Dec. 13 by WPSO for illegal use of weapons. No bond set.

Jatoria Monque Lofton, 28, 100 block Oak Tree Lane, Minden: arrested Dec. 13 by Minden PD on warrant for second degree battery. Bond set $35,000.

Bernard Green, Jr., 24, 600 block Crow St., Cotton Valley: arrestee Dec. 13 by Louisiana State Police for DWI first offense, careless operation, no seat belt. No bond set.

Robert L. Dison, 56, 200 block 3rd St. Pinehill, Springhill: arrested Dec. 13 by Springhill PD for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines), failure to register vehicle, no vehicle insurance, driving under suspension. Bond set $4,002.

Ryan T. Kinison, 25, 100 block Fire Tower Rd., Plain Dealing: arrested Dec. 14 by Minden PD on fugitive warrants from Ouachita Parish and Concordia Parish. 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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Barbara Slack
June 11, 1927 — December 7, 2025
Minden
Graveside service: 11 a.m. Thursday, December 18, 2025, Gardens of Memory Cemetery under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Carmen “Gail” Tuggle
July 28, 1947 — December 14, 2025
Minden
Visitation: 4 until 7 p.m. Friday, December 19, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Graveside service: Later date, Holly Springs Cemetery.

Richard Eric Baxter
February 3, 1969  –  December 15, 2025
Springhill
No service is planned at this time.
Contact Bailey Funeral Home, 318-539-3555.

Lois Benson-Hood
August 14, 1921  –  December 13, 2025
Sarepta
Graveside service: 4 p.m. Tuesday, December 16, 2025, Springhill Cemetery, Springhill La., under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home.

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

One man is in custody and another is in the hospital after what investigators believe to be a love triangle that resulted in a violent attack in the parking lot of a local business shortly after 8 a.m. Thursday.

Christopher L. Rowe, 39, is being held on a charge of aggravated second degree battery for allegedly stabbing a man who he reportedly found “messing around” with the suspect’s “significant other” inside the victim’s vehicle.

Minden police Lt. Anthony Miller and Officer Cody James reportedly interviewed the victim at the Minden Medical Center emergency room and learned he was stabbed while inside his vehicle with a female co-worker in the parking lot of the Homer Rd. business.

According to investigators, the victim received stab wounds to the left side of his neck, behind his ear and in the left rib cage when Rowe allegedly opened the back door of the vehicle and attacked. His condition is unknown.

Rowe was taken to police headquarters where he was interviewed and placed under arrest. 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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Romeko Stevenson is wanted for offenses following an incident that occurred on Dec. 6.

Patrol Officers subsequently secured an arrest warrant following the incident. The following are charges and bond amounts associated with Romeko Stevenson:

• Battery on a dating partner (Felony) with a $10,000 surety bond.

• Simple criminal damage to property with a $1,000 surety bond.

Anyone with information on Romeko Stevenson is asked to please contact Det. Matthew Hicks at 318-639-7776. All information will be strictly confidential.

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

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By Pat Culverhouse

A minor traffic offense became a major headache for a Springhill man who is now residing in the parish prison facing drug distribution charges.

Springhill Chief of Police Will Lynd said Emanuel Dwayne Germany, 41, a resident of the 200 block Oak St., was stopped Thursday by officers Jakob Sheek and Amandia Hamilton after he failed to signal a turn.

While speaking to Germany, the officers reportedly spotted a clear plastic baggie and noticed the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered a plastic bag containing 14 grams of suspected methamphetamines and another baggie with 12.85 grams of suspected synthetic marijuana.

Germany has been charged with possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines) with intent to distribute and possession of CDS Sch. I (synthetic marijuana) with intent to distribute.

He is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center under a $25,000 bond.

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 Marilyn Miller

Mayor Donna Hoffoss told members of the Dixie Inn Board of Aldermen this past Tuesday, Dec. 9 that the annual Water Rate Study has been completed by the Louisiana Dept. of Health, with the village earning the equivalent of an “A” rating.

“This rating is good for five years,” Mayor Hoffoss explained, “We passed with flying colors.”

This is great news for the consumer, since rates do not have to go up for any reason for the next five years, other than the three percent automatic increase every year. Standards include water system sustainability. “Which ours is (sustainable),” the mayor said. “In fact, we’ve never had a boil advisory.” The number of complaints also comes into play, so it is obvious Dixie Inn’s water system generates very few complaints.

The remaining standards involve Operation & Maintenance, which falls to water system manager, Scott Day; Federal Water Quality, State Water Quality, Infrastructure, and Secondary Contaminants. “We have a good system and I’m glad of it,” noted alderman Lance Milligan.

In other business, the Board voted unanimously to reappoint James Edwards as a member of Fire Protection District 7 for a two-year term.

The monthly Police Report for November 2025 is as follows: Traffic stops, 200; Citations, 187; Arrest, one; LEMIS reports, five; non-LEMIS calls, 18; Building Checks, 65; Backups, 15; Public Assists, 22; Calls for Service, 18; and Accidents, three.

In other police business, the board voted unanimously to purchase updated radar equipment for the fleet. The purchase includes four in-car radars and two hand-held radars at a cost of $621.86 per month. The equipment is warranted if paid for by the month, according to Chief of Police Jeff McNeill. “We’re trying to update everything while the getting is good,” he said.

The board also approved the purchase of a Chevrolet Silverado pick-up truck from a police department in Illinois. The vehicle has only 34 miles on it and will be delivered from site.

Alderman Judy McKenzie noted that the Dixie Inn Police Dept. is as well-equipped as most large departments around the State and Nation. “It’s because we can, and we do!” she said.

In other business, the board:

• Voted unanimously to move forward with acquiring annexation attorney F. Michael Hebert;
• Adopted the Sexual Harassment Policy for 2026;
• Approved Mayor Hoffoss to sign the compliance report for the audit;
• Adopted the Minutes for the November 2025 regular meeting;
• Announced that Nykea Chase was the winner of the Holiday Ham given away by the village in November. There will be another drawing this month.

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A letter recently released by Webster Parish Clerk of Court Holli Vining shows changes in civil and criminal filings, thanks to the 2025 Louisiana Legislature.

Effective Jan. 1, 2026, all pleadings, documents and exhibits filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court must be submitted in person (in paper form) or electronically through a system established by the Louisiana Clerks’ Remote Access Authority.

“You may file your documents electronically by creating an e-services account with us at search.websterclerk.org,” Vining wrote. “There is no cost to set up this account unless you choose a subscription for online search access.”

Vining wrote the filer is responsible for ensuring that any private or confidential information is not included in the filing.

“Please review all submissions carefully to ensure compliance with the confidentiality provisions set forth in Act 352,” she added.

See below to read the Act with exemptions, requirements and obligations.

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Monday, December 15:

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

ANDERSON, SAMANTHA SHARI
99973 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS

ANDERSON, SAMANTHA SHARI
99802 Obstruction Of Justice
Assess Rehab treatment (9/12/25 arrested on new felony charges)

ATKINS, SHANNON LASHONE
99876 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

BAKER, KEDARRION JAMARRIA
100005 CT 1 Possession of CDS I Marijuana (More Than Fourteen Grams)
100005 CT 2 Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
100005 CT 3 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License
100005 CT 4 Switched License Plates

BISHOP, RICKY WAYNE
99846 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99846 CT 2 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)

BRIDGES, DECOREY
100010 CT 1 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
100010 CT 2 Obstruction of Justice by Tampering with Evidence
100010 CT 3 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm
100010 CT 4 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

BROWN, FLOYD JAMES
99923 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

BROWN, KATHLEEN NICOLE
100036A Interfering With a Law Enforcement Investigation

BROWN, STEVEN PHILLIP
99918 Simple Burglary

BROWN, TWANTELL EDWARD
100020 Second Degree Battery

CAHILL, JAQUARIUS JAMAL
99684 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

CALHOUN, DAWN SHERMAN
INCOMING Cruelty To The Infirmed

CALHOUN, TONY W.
INCOMING Cruelty To The Infirmed
INCOMING Criminal Neglect of Family

CANNADY, JR., RICHARD THOMAS
100028 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

COLE, MARY LEE-ROSANA
96297 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

COLEMAN, JR, SYLVESTER THOMAS
100030 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

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

CONLEY, TIFFANY BROOKLYN
100024 Vehicular Homicide

COX, JAIDYN KYLE
99514 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

CROW, JAVONTE D.
100036 Cruelty To The Infirmed

DOSTER, ZACKARY LOGAN KADE
98526 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

DOSTER, ZACKARY LOGAN KADE
98327 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
98327 CT 2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

DOSTER, ZACKARY LOGAN KADE
98327 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
98327 CT 2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

FETZER, JR, JESSIE CLAYTON
100017-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100017-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

GERMANY, KYDRICK OSHAE
100038 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

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)

GILCREASE, JULES STEVEN
98229 Ct. 2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GILES, JOSEPH ERIC
99847 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

GILES, KEVIN LEE
99393 Simple Burglary

GILES, KEVIN LEE
T043225 Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign
T043225A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GILES, KEVIN LEE
T030825 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GREEN, JUSTIN KEITH
100021 Fail to Register and Notify as a Sex Offender/Child Predator

HAIR, DANIEL W.
99857 Simple Robbery
Restitution owed to the victim- $384 plus $57.60 fee = $441.60 total

HARRIS, ASSIDIOUS DEVOUT
99964 Domestic Abuse Battery – Strangulation – 1st Offense
99964A Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000

HART, DANIEL ADAM
99905 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

HAYS, ASHTON BRIAR
99766 CT 1 False Imprisonment
99766 CT 2 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

HECKENDORN, JACOB
99881 Theft Of A Firearm – 1St Offense

HECKENDORN, JACOB
99501 Ct. 1 Resisting An Officer
99501 Ct. 2 Improper Lane Usage

HENDON, DESHUN R.
98967 CT 1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
98967 CT 2 Public Bribery

HENDON, DESHUN R.
98200 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

HOLYFIELD, JR., BENNIE JABIEN
INCOMING Accessory After The Fact

HUTCHINSON, SHANE D
99825 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

JENKINS, JASON DARRYL LAMONT
100058 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

JERNIGAN, RONALD DAVID
99142 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen
99142A First Degree Rape (Under the Age of 13)
Total Bond: $450,000
A Bond Reduction Hearing WPSD

JERNIGAN, RONALD DAVID
99142 Molestation of a Juvenile Under Thirteen
99142A First Degree Rape (Under the Age of 13)

KEE, CHRISTOPHER
99862 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
99862 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

LEWIS, SHAINA R
99916 Simple Burglary

LOFTIN, BERNALDO
100045 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

MANNING JR, CALVIN RAY
100052-CT.1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
100052-CT.2 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or Controlled Dangerous Substance

MASON, DEXTER JERMAINE
99586 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
99586A Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

MCLAIN, COURTNEY
98790 Obtaining CDS by Fraud

MENDENHALL, TYTRAVION
INCOMING Illegal Use Of Weapons Or Dangerous Instrumentalities

MILLER, DEMETRIUS DONELLE
100051 Simple Burglary

MILLER, WILLIE IRA
100051 Simple Burglary

MOORE, JR, REGINALD DELONE
97660 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or
Controlled Dangerous Substance
Please make forfeiture of Firearms and $1,673 in US Currency part of any plea/sentence agreement.

NESS, LANESHIA SHANTE
98570 Manslaughter

PATE, EVELYN MARTHA
100059 CT 1 Possession of CDS I Marijuana (More Than Fourteen Grams)
100059 CT 2 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Tail Lights

PATTERSON, LASONDRA TRINETTE
99915 Simple Burglary

PATTERSON, LASONDRA TRINETTE
98640 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

PETERS, MICHAEL OLINDA
99412 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

PHIPPS, RAMONE JATARI
96915 Illegal Possession Of Stolen Firearms

PORTER, JOSHUA A

POWELL, SHERRI LYNN
INCOMING Simple Burglary

PROCELL, XANDER REESE
98044 CT 1 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
98044 CT 2 Unauthorized Use Of A Motor Vehicle
Possible Restitution pending in this matter.

RANKIN, LATAVIUS
99921 Simple Burglary

RAY, CAYDEN LANE
100031 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

REYNOLDS, II, DANIEL WADE
100032 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

RICHARDSON, DUSTIN WAYNE
99960 Domestic Abuse Battery – 3rd Offense

RILEY, RACHEL V
99919 Simple Burglary

ROBINSON, JR., EDDIE D
99838 Home Invasion

ROLEN, JOHN STUART
99757 Resisting An Officer

SHAW, SIMUEL MALIK
100011 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
100011 CT 2 Obstruction of Justice by Tampering with Evidence

SHEHEE, CHANDRICKA
100060 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

SHELTON, KLEANE ARMAIYA
T041125 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 70/55

SHINE, JAYLEN
100049 Theft Of A Firearm – 1St Offense

STOCKWELL, PAIGE
99917 Simple Burglary

STROTHER, KIMBERLY FONTENOT
100050 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

TAYLOR, JARION JARROD
92837 Disturbing The Peace

TIMS, CADENCE SETH
99613 Racketeering

VARNADO, SAMUEL WILLIAM
99631 Simple Burglary
Restitution owed per the report- $1,100, plus $165 fee = $1,265 total

WASHINGTON, DOMINIC
100053 Theft Under $1,000

WHITE, ANDREW JAMES
99689 Obstruction Of Justice

WHITE, SPENCER
99806 Malfeasance in Office
99806A CT 1 Forgery
99806A CT 2 Forgery
99806A CT 3 Forgery
99806B Filing or Maintaining False Public Records
99806 Malfeasance in Office
99806 Trespassing Against State Computers
99806 Offenses Against Computer Users

YATES, HANNAH MARIE
99920 Simple Burglary

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By Paige Gurgainers

Hers Bridal of Minden rolled out the pink carpet this past Saturday, hosting its glamorous “Vogue & Bows” celebration in honor of the storefront’s 50th birthday. The event brought out families, friends, customers and local supporters for an afternoon of fashion, fun and heartfelt community pride.

Founded in Minden five decades ago, Hers Bridal has long been a cornerstone in the local wedding and formalwear industry, known for its personalized service and commitment to making every customer feel celebrated. Owners Alicia and Thomas Adams have worked side by side to grow the boutique into a trusted destination for bridal gowns, tuxedos, prom dresses, pageant attire and custom fittings.

“Hers Bridal is what it is because of the people who walk through our doors,” Alicia Adams said. “Minden has stood by us, trusted us, and grown with us and we wanted to celebrate that love in a big way.”

In recent months, the store has undergone a stylish facelift, including updated décor, fresh branding elements and the addition of an all-new “His Department.” The new space expands the shop’s offerings for men, providing tuxedo rentals, suits, accessories and a refined shopping experience that complements the boutique’s signature bridal atmosphere. The updates have breathed new life into the establishment while preserving the charm and history customers know and love.

Saturday’s Vogue & Bows event highlighted the boutique’s evolution while celebrating its milestone birthday. Attendees enjoyed photo opportunities, refreshments and a festive atmosphere inspired by vintage glamour and modern elegance. Models showcased a curated selection of looks from the store’s newest collections, offering guests a first look at upcoming trends in bridal and formalwear along with gowns of past customers who bought their dress for the special day at Hers Bridal over the years.

The celebration also served as a moment of gratitude for Alicia, who thanked the community for its support through the years.

With its refreshed look, expanded offerings and continued commitment to customer care, Hers Bridal steps into its next chapter with renewed excitement as she marks her 50th in unforgettable style.

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All Pumpkin wants for Christmas is a warm home and someone to love him. Pumpkin has been available since before Halloween and needs out ASAP!

Pumpkin is an 11-month-old male pitty mix.  Pumpkin will be a smaller guy.  He’s only 28 lbs. now and a healthy size.  He is heart worm negative and started on prevention. Pumpkin is dog friendly with slow introduction and seems tolerable of cats. He walks well on a leash and will sit for treats.  He’s very gentle while walking on the leash and when taking treats.  He loves playing fetch but is only good for about 10 minutes, then he’s ready to rest.

Available for rescue through 501c3 group or approved adoption (MUST fill out application for adoption)

Adoption fee-covered by donor (covers neuter. Microchip,  age appropriate vaccines, worming, heartworm prevention,  and flea and tick prevention).

Adoption application– forms.gle/TfS5pe939gbP4t2i6

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By Jerry Strahan

This is a special forecast for the days of December 13 through December 15.

The high on December 13 should be around 55 F then throughout the day as the strong cold front pushes through north Louisiana, temperatures will start to fall.  Each day the temperature will continue to drop in the early morning hours. December 14 should be the coldest so far. 

Temperatures will be in the upper teens – 15 to 18 degrees F.

As of this article, I don’t see any significant winter precipitation.  I can’t rule out some light freezing drizzle or sleet.  The atmosphere will be tough to produce much moisture. 

As always, let your faucets drip, make sure your pets have a nice warm place. Blankets and hay tend to hold moisture and that can make your pets wet. Use straw if possible. Check on your neighbors and family. Make sure your vehicle battery is in  great shape. Cold temperatures can drain a battery.

(Jerry Strahan was a first responder in fire and emergency services for almost 45 years. He lives in north Webster Parish and has written weather articles for other publications.)

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By Paige Gurgainers

Adult & Teen Challenge (ATC) Louisiana filled the Minden Civic Center to capacity last week as supporters gathered for an evening of food, fellowship and fundraising benefiting the program’s current and future students.

The event featured a catered meal, silent auction and an energetic live auction, with every dollar raised supporting ATC’s mission of helping individuals overcome addiction through faith-based, long-term recovery. Guests also enjoyed a special performance by students, who took the stage to sing Christmas carols – a moment that drew heartfelt applause and highlighted the joy and transformation happening within the program.

“We are overwhelmed by the support shown tonight,” organizers said. “Every contribution helps a mother, a child and a family find hope again.”

ATC operates multiple centers across Louisiana, including facilities in Ruston, Shreveport, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, New Orleans and the Minden Family Center, which serves as one of the program’s most specialized campuses. While many ATC centers focus on adult men or women separately, the Minden Family Center is one of the few in the state designed specifically to support mothers and their children.

This unique structure allows women to receive residential recovery services without being separated from their kids, offering family-style housing, parenting classes, life-skills development and spiritual guidance. The focus is not only on individual recovery but on creating a stable, healthy environment where families can heal and rebuild together.

Organizers said the funds raised at the event will directly support the program with a special emphasis on strengthening the resources available at the Minden Family Center so it can continue offering safe housing, childcare support and family restoration services.

With a packed room, generous bidding, and uplifting performances from the students, this year’s fundraiser showcased the deep commitment the community has for ATC and the life-changing work happening in Minden and across the state.

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There’s a certain kind of magic that shows up in my house every December. The kind that smells like cinnamon candles and burnt cookies because someone (me) forgot to set the timer… again. The kind that has my kids whispering in the next room about where the elf should “fly” tonight even though I’m pretty sure the elf is tired of flying and would like a PTO day.

And honestly? I love it.

I love the lights, the movies, the stockings and the pure childhood joy that explodes out of my girls like glitter every time they hear the word Christmas.

But as a mom, I also feel this tug… that soft little voice reminding me that Christmas is both magical… and meaningful.

And that’s where Santa meets Jesus.

Now listen, I grew up believing in Santa. And it was fun, it was whimsical, and it made Christmas feel big and sparkly and full of possibility. But I also grew up learning the story of a baby born in a manger – a Savior who arrived quietly, humbly, and with a purpose bigger than anything my child-brain could grasp.

So now, as a mother, I get to weave those two worlds together for my own kids.

Because yes, Santa brings presents…

but Jesus brings presence.

Santa sneaks in while we’re sleeping…

but Jesus stays with us while we’re awake.

Santa asks if you’ve been good…

but Jesus came because we can’t be good enough on our own.

That’s the real magic!!!

I want my girls to feel the wonder of Christmas morning… the wrapping paper tornado, the squeals, the hot chocolate, the matching pajamas that only stay matching for approximately six minutes. But I also want them to know the peace that comes from understanding why we celebrate in the first place.

I want them to feel the excitement of Santa…

but the hope of a Savior.

I want them to love the traditions…

but treasure the truth.

And most importantly, I want them to know that Christmas isn’t just a season.

It’s a story… one that started in a manger and changed everything.

This year, when we bake cookies for Santa (that he definitely doesn’t need), we’re also reading the story of the shepherds and the angels. When we hang the stockings, we’re talking about gratitude. When we wrap gifts, we’re talking about how Jesus is the greatest one we’ll ever receive.

And when I tuck them in under their Christmas blankets with their twinkle-light nightlight glowing, I kiss their foreheads and thank God that I get to be their mom – a mom who gets to show them both the joy and the Jesus in this season. 

Because if there’s one thing motherhood has taught me, it’s this:

Santa makes Christmas magical…

but Jesus makes it meaningful.

And my prayer is that long after the toys break, the batteries die, the cookies crumble – His light stays with them.

Always.

(Paige Gurgainers is a mom of three girls, digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal.)

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Dr. Dan Gibbs and the community-wide choir are seeking singers for the upcoming Live Nativity in Minden’s Historic District from 6 until 8 p.m. Saturday, December 20.

Located at First Methodist Church, 903 Broadway, Minden, the choir will gather to offer music designed to complement the theme: “Oh Come, All Ye Faithful.”

Anyone who loves to sing is invited to participate. A practice is scheduled for Thursday, December 18. Please contact First Methodist Church, 318-377-1483 for details.

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What do you get for the happy gardeners in the world?  It all depends on their favorite part of the garden work and landscaping.  

For the rose lovers, you always need good pruning shears and sprayers.  Roses take a lot of work and love.  I like to use the smallest pair of shears.  They are lite, and that helps when you have a lot to do.  Sprayers come in a lot of styles and sizes.  For women, it’s better to get just a gallon sprayer.  When you fill a sprayer it gets heavy to carry.  Also, you can use a 4-wheeler sprayer.  It’s easy to use and fill.  

Tree pruning tools would be a good choice for those who like to prune their trees.  Some pruners have the ability to get longer for the high limbs.  Again, don’t buy one that is too heavy.

Hoes, shovels, and seed are great for the vegetable gardens.  Let’s them get ready for the spring. A small tiller would be great too.

About anything that you give the gardener would be a great help.  Books, rubber boots, rakes and even gloves would work.  

Merry Christmas and thanks for reading my stories.

(Mitzi Thomas owns Minden Farm & Garden LLC. Watch for her column on Fridays in Webster Parish Journal. Email Mitzi questions at  mitzithomas40@yahoo.com.)

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Rentavionna D’Janee McMillian, 28, 600 block Pershing St., Minden: arrested Dec. 9 by WPSO on warrants for second degree battery, disturbing the peace. Bond set $36,500.

Willie Ray Waller, 68,  300 block Boga Lewis Rd., Dubberly: arrested Dec. 9 by WPSO for careless operation of a motor vehicle, failure to report an accident. No bond set.

Tamomthus L. Venznat, 42, 100 block McArthur St., Minden: arrested Dec.10 by WPSO on warrant for driving under suspension. Bond set $1,000.

Jayree L. Davis, 35, 100 block Pierce Lane, Haynesville: arrested Dec. 10 by WPSO on warrant. Bond set $332.50.

Jessica C. Soes, 38, 3600 block Greenacres, Bossier City: arrested Dec. 10 but Probation and Parole for parole violation.

Joshua Daniel LeGrande, 45, 8600 block Millicent Way, Shreveport: arrested Dec. 10 by WPSO for improper lane usage, multiple fugitive warrants from Bossier Parish SO. No bond set.

Mikelle Maness, 52, 700 block Park Hwy., Minden: arrested Dec. 10 by Minden PD on warrant from MPD for unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling (felony). Bond set $2,500.

Kentavious Layton, 30, 100 block Bradley St., Cullen: arrested Dec. 10 by WPSO on warrants. Bond set $432.50.

Chanceler J. Crow, 28, 100 block McClaunchan St., Cotton Valley: arrested 12-10-25 by WPSO on warrant for possession of CDS Sch. II. 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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Send non-profit calendar events to wpjnewsla@gmail.com .

A “Christmas Canned Food Drive” is currently ongoing to help Barbara Goston and Food 4 the Soul to “help support families in our community this Christmas season.” Drop-off locations are Good Home Center, 304 Homer Road; State Farm Insurance, 704 Main Street; Century Loans, 1214 Homer Road; and Carter Credit Union, 918 Homer Road. For more information, email food4thesoul@gmail.com.

Dec. 12

10 a.m. Gingerbread House Decorating, for kids and families. Minden Library Branch, Webster Parish Library. Registration required.

5 until 9 p.m. Wine Walk, downtown Minden.

6 until 9 p.m., Holiday Trail of Lights Hayride, downtown Minden.

Dec. 12 and 13

Presents on Pearl Vendor Market, downtown Minden.

Dec. 13

10 a.m. until noon, STUFF the BUS CAP Toy Drive, Springhill Walmart parking lot.

10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Gingerbread House Decorating, for kids and families. Minden Library Branch, Webster Parish Library. Registration required.

10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The Lucky Pup open house. 217 N. Main St., Springhill, Chicken & Sausage Gumbo, raffle for Pink Santa, gift card giveaway.

5 p.m., A Hometown Christmas Parade, downtown Minden. Rain or Shine!

RESCHEDULED FOR JANUARY LaMa Animal Rescue Santa Paws Village Game Night. Games, concessions, Christmas Costume Contest, BINGO, raffles and more. $20 entry fee. Springhill Civic Center, 101 Machen Drive, Springhill.

7 p.m. Piney Woods Jamboree, CAC building in Springhill. Christmas Show starring Kylie Small, Sue Ellen Lindsey,  Shae Carson

Dec. 14

10:45 a.m. “It All Happened in the Country,” a children’s musical at First Methodist Church Minden, 903 Broadway.

1 until 6 p.m., Christmas Tour of Homes. For tickets and information, call 318-377-4240 or visit greatermindenchamber.com/christmas-in-minden .

7 p.m. Doyline Methodist Church Christmas Cantata.

Dec. 16

7 p.m. Shreveport-Bossier Choral Ensemble, First Methodist Minden’s Sanctuary, 903 Broadway.

Dec. 18

6 p.m. Kid’s Night, Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry, 814 Constable St., Minden, pre-registration required, donations of cereal, bread, canned soups or blankets much appreciated.

Dec. 18 and 19

7 until 9 p.m. Parkway Baptist Church Live Nativity, Minden, refreshments provided.

Dec. 20

2 p.m. Town of Cotton Valley Christmas Parade. Theme: Jingle All the Way. Line up at school at 12:45 p.m.

6 until 8 p.m. Community Wide Living Nativity presented by church of the historic district in Minden.

Dec. 23

Noon until 3 p.m., Project Reclaim of Louisiana and Food 4 the Soul are the headlining sponsors for “Free Dinner Plates for the Community,” American Legion Hall (119 W. Pine Street, Minden.) If you want to help, call Barbara Goston with Food 4 the Soul at 318-639-7434.

Dec. 24

6 p.m. Christmas Eve Service, Sanctuary of First Methodist Church, Minden.

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