By Pat Culverhouse

When Hunter Alexander, a lineman for Entergy, was injured while working during the recent inclement weather, his wife (Katie) and her mother (Susan Williams) were desperate to get from their Bienville Parish residence to his side in a Shreveport hospital.

Roads in Bienville Parish were still treacherous, but the family was determined to make the trip. Bienville Parish Sheriff John Ballance heard of the family’s situation and immediately began making plans to help.

The following is a Facebook post by Mrs. Williams telling how three agencies combined to safely transport the family to the Shreveport hospital.

“When there is a need … God provides a way again .. and again!!!

“All day we have tried to figure out a way for Katie and I to get to Shreveport – so many conflicting reports of road conditions and closures –

“We had decided Eric was going to drive our F250 and Katie and I were going to go in Hunter’s Toyota truck – to say we were stressed and worried is not enough – before we left I stopped in my kitchen and just said “Lord provide a way , give us wisdom and I know you have a perfect plan.. please show me what it is” ..

“Before we got a mile down the road we got word that the Bienville Parish Sheriffs Office would pick Katie and I up and transport us to Webster Parish and hand us over to another deputy, then Webster would hand us over to a Bossier Parish officer who would deliver us straight to LSU!!  – what a peace immediately settled over our troubled hearts!

“Eric felt such a calm that he decided to not follow us so he could stay home and try to start working on all the disaster at our farm ( anybody that knows Eric knows he doesn’t trust his girls to many people) ..

“God is showing His mercy and love upon our family in a way that we can never deserve – to everyone reading this your prayers are what is making a difference in our lives! Please don’t stop praying! If you have never surrendered your heart to Jesus you can never imagine the “peace that surpasses all understanding “ ..

“God is good all the time and all the time God is good!! A huge thank you to Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office , Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Bossier Parish Sheriff – you have no idea the blessing you were to us today!!”

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

One possible solution to an ongoing problem with blight in the city of Minden is an administrative court. Much like a mayor’s court it is a way to solve problems while avoiding civil court on certain city matters.

“I wouldn’t preside over it,” said Minden Mayor Nick Cox. “I have no interest in that. But a municipality can have a mayor’s court that the mayor doesn’t preside over.”

The idea behind the court is to hear as many cases as possible on one day per month specifically about beautification and keeping up property inside the city limits.

“A lot of our citizens take the way their property looks very seriously, and it’s not fair to have blight in your neighborhood,” the mayor said.

Cox said the city council would appoint a judge. The court would also have a docket clerk to handle proceedings.

A Beautification Committee of “peers” – an advisory role of citizens –  would first hear the complaints and recommend to the Building Official whether the case should go to administrative court.

City of Minden special attorney Neil Irwin has been working on a structure for the system.

“If you have a neighbor that keeps their property at a very poor standard that doesn’t meet our ordinances, then as a citizen you would bring it to your councilperson, who would submit it to the Building Official,” Cox explained. “Then it could be brought before the Beautification Committee and potentially be brought to administrative court.”

Cox said the idea behind the court should be helpful.

“We are not trying to burden people who are already burdened – we understand money is tight,” he said. “It’s hard to maintain a standard of living right now.

“We are not trying to make people’s lives worse,” Cox continued. “We’re just trying to take care of our city.”

The court is for situations where homeowners or renters stack trash – tin or metal, old cars or other unsightly matter – in their front yards. It is also geared for overgrown yards and high grass.

“If you’re having a hard time, come to the court and tell the judge what your situation is,” Cox said. “Sometimes if we get church groups or citizens that need service hours, maybe we can partner up people with help. It’s not all about fines and penalties. It’s what can we do as a city and citizens to make things more appealing.”

Cox said his goal is for the administrative court ordinance to be on the council’s February agenda.

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For every load of propellants Aeropres Corporation delivers in February, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to children’s cancer research – helping hope thrive and making miracles possible every day.

Because, at Aeropres, “giving back is at the heart of what we do…“ said company CEO Bob Wilkie, a longtime supporter of the Minden Auction to benefit St. Jude.

The Auction, slated for Thursday, Feb. 5 through Sunday, Feb. 8, will benefit in a big way. Not only will the worldwide auction receive a portion of the proceeds from every load delivered in February, but every one of the company’s employees will receive a Grand Prize ticket. The $100 donation gives the winner a chance to win a 2026 GMC Yukon or $50,000 in cash. If the winner selects the vehicle, they are responsible for tax, title and license.

“For the month of February, we’re joining forces to support life-saving treatments and groundbreaking research for children facing life-threatening illnesses,” Wilkie said. “Together, our efforts don’t just drive progress – they propel hope, provide vital support, and help create brighter futures for families everywhere.

Thanking the company for their great giving hearts, Laura Hollingsworth, co-chairman of the Auction, said that the purchase of the Grand Prize tickets alone “adds up to approximately $10,000.00.”

“What a generous and imaginative way for a company to participate,” she added.

“Let’s make a meaningful difference, one load at a time,” Wilkie said, challenging his area and national employees to join in and support the auction via its website or the phone.

Aeropres Is headquartered in Shreveport, with one of its many plants nearby in Sibley.

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LaJayden Harris is wanted for questioning by Minden police detectives following a string of vehicle burglaries committed in November, 2025.

Please get in touch with Detective Matthew Hicks (318-639-7776) of the Minden Police Department if you have any information regarding the whereabouts of LaJayden Harris.

All information will be strictly confidential.

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Don’t put away the cold weather gear just yet. Jay Grymes, the state’s climatologist, is predicting another Arctic air mass headed this way and should be here over the weekend.

A cold weather advisory has been issued for Friday night into Saturday, with a daytime high of 34 degrees predicted Saturday on the heels of an 18 degree low Friday night.  An overnight low of 19 degrees is forecast for Saturday.

Although cold temperatures are in the forecast, no precipitation is currently predicted to accompany the system. Windchills Friday and Saturday night could sink to single digits or the low teens.

Following Saturday’s low temperatures, a slight warming trend is predicted through the middle of next week. After a forecast high of 46 on Sunday and an overnight low of 26, temperatures are predicted to reach 57 degrees Monday and Tuesday.

Monday’s overnight low is forecast for 36 degrees with a low of 41 predicted for Tuesday. Wednesday’s forecast calls for a high of 53 and a low of 40.

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Minden, Louisiana — Ryan Barnette has officially announced his candidacy for Chief of Police in Minden, Louisiana, bringing more than 16 years of law enforcement experience and deep community roots to the race.

Barnette spent 12 years serving with the Minden Police Department, where he worked patrol, investigations, Special Response Team operations, and advanced through the ranks to Lieutenant. His experience spans dispatch, patrol supervision, and criminal investigations involving property crimes, violent crimes, juvenile cases, sex crimes, financial crimes, narcotics, and SWAT operations.

After his time with MPD, Barnette served four years as an Investigator with the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office. For the last few years, he has worked in bank and financial security while maintaining a valid law enforcement commission and meeting all Louisiana POST certification training requirements.

Barnette began his law enforcement career under the late Chief T.C. Bloxom, whom he credits with shaping his heart for public service. He also served under former Chief Steve Cropper, whose leadership left a lasting impression on both the department and the community.

“I was blessed to serve under Chief Steve Cropper,” Barnette said.

“His fairness, strength, and compassion left a lasting impact on this department and on the people of Minden. I am honored to have his support and forever grateful for his guidance and friendship.”

“Minden is home,” Barnette said. “Even when my career led me to serve in a neighboring parish, my home never changed. I believe the best person to lead the Minden Police Department is someone who understands both the community and the officers who serve it — because they’ve lived it.”

In addition to his law enforcement career, Barnette is the owner and operator of Nine and One Tactical, where he has spent more than six years teaching firearm safety and personal defense to citizens and law  enforcement officers, including members of Minden Police Department’s Special Response Team.

Barnette says his campaign will focus on experience, professionalism, and a clear vision for the future of the department. He has committed to running a positive campaign, emphasizing qualifications and leadership rather than personal attacks.

“If elected, I have no political ambitions beyond serving as Chief of Police,” Barnette said. “This is not a steppingstone. My focus is on strengthening community engagement, expanding education, supporting officer morale, and providing transparent, present leadership.”

Barnette’s guiding motto for the campaign is “Strength. Respect. Accountability.”

He emphasizes that a strong police department depends on trust and accountability flowing between officers and the community they serve.

“My goal is to help build the bridge between your police department and your neighborhoods, businesses, and families,” he said.

Barnette has called Minden home for 18 years and this is where he and his wife Stephanie are raising their children, Noah and Harper, who are all active in the community. He says family and community are central to his commitment to public service.

The election for Minden Chief of Police will be held in November 2026.

For more information, follow Ryan Barnette for Chief of Police on social media.

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We had a baby dedication at church this past Sunday and it got me thinking a lot about how faith is passed down, not through sermons or perfectly worded prayers, but through quiet consistency. Through showing up. Through habit. Through example.

I didn’t grow up in a house where church attendance was required, but my grandparents were the ones who first brought me to church when I was little. They planted the seed. Later, as a teenager, I drifted in and out of youth programs. Some seasons I was there every week, others I showed up just enough to say I went. It was sporadic, inconsistent, and honestly, a reflection of where my heart was at the time.

Now here I am, a mom, realizing that what we model matters more than what we say.

There’s a trajectory that comes with raising your kids in church. It’s not a guarantee, but it’s a foundation. When children grow up seeing faith as a normal part of life, not something reserved for crisis or convenience, there’s a much greater chance they’ll raise their own children the same way. Faith becomes part of the rhythm, not a reaction.

What really stopped me in my tracks was Emerson.

For a season, my oldest was going to church on Wednesday nights with a friend. I would drive her there, then sit in the parking lot with my two youngest buckled in the back seat, waiting for her to get out. Watching families walk in together. Watching kids run ahead to class. Watching doors open and close.

And I remember thinking, more than once, Why am I sitting out here?

I was physically present, but spiritually parked. Letting my child go inside and grow while I waited on the outside, making excuses, convincing myself I was “busy” or “tired” or that I’d get back to it eventually.

Eventually… doesn’t raise kids.

What we do consistently does.

Raising children in church doesn’t mean they’ll never question their faith or wander. I’m living proof of that. But it does mean they’ll know where to return. They’ll know what the truth sounds like. They’ll recognize peace when they feel it. They’ll understand that God isn’t a stranger, but a constant.

I want more for my kids than what I had – not because what I had was lacking, but because every generation should build on the last. My grandparents planted. My parents watered when they could. And now it’s my turn to tend the garden intentionally.

Not perfectly. Just faithfully.

Because one day, I hope my children are the ones bringing their kids to church and maybe I will be the proud grandparent watching as my grandchildren are being dedicated – not because they have to, but because it feels like home.

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

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Oakie is a five-year-old, 40-pound neutered male Plott hound at LaMa Animal Rescue.

Oakie is heartworm negative, up to date on all age-appropriate vaccines & on flea/tick prevention. He has a birth defect on his hind leg. Our vet suggested NOT amputating because it is causing no pain. He gets around well, so we chose not to amputate.

A kind man took him in as a stray. He fell in love with Oakie’s personality but knew he could not afford heartworm treatment and specialty vetting or give him the time he deserves, so he made his way to us. He has been treated for heartworms and is now negative!

Oakie is the perfect age — still has some spunk but LOVES to chill. He would love a chance at a home of his own where he can find a sunny spot on the couch and have a yard to sniff in.

We do not “kid-test” but I think Oakie would do great with kids.

Adoption Fee: $175

Interested? Please fill out the application at the link below:
https://forms.gle/id1eJGf1VnA7ftoW8

Or the PDF version on our website:
https://lamaanimalrescue.org/adopt

To schedule a meet-and-greet, you must fill out an application first.

We do not cat or kid test at our shelter. All dogs are dog-friendly unless otherwise noted. Please only commit to adoption if you are willing to give the dog time to adjust to a home life – some dogs have been in our shelter for over a year.

You can check out all of LaMa Animal Rescue’s adoptable dogs at this link:
https://www.petfinder.com/member/us/ma/westborough/lama-animal-rescue-ma546/

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After additional discussions with the trout farm and out of an abundance of caution for safety and logistics, stocking for our northern ponds has been delayed. Rainbow trout will now be stocked on Thursday, Feb. 5, at Turners Pond, Minden.

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By Jessica Gorman

Madison Calloway Moseley was born about 1853 in Georgia. He was still a young boy when his father, Dr. Benjamin F. Moseley died. After the Civil War, he, his brother, Benjamin, and their mother, Mary Ann, came to Cotton Valley, in what was then Bossier Parish, with her family, the Calloways.

M.C. and his mother moved to Minden. He taught school before studying law under Judge A.B. George for three years. He then enrolled at University of Louisiana which later became Tulane University. He graduated in 1874 and began his practice in Minden. He served as both Parish Attorney and District Attorney. In 1883, he moved to Alexandria where he became “one of the city’s wealthiest and most prominent citizens.” A 1903 newspaper article describes him as “not only one of the ablest lawyers in the State, but he is a most pleasant, affable gentleman, whom it is a pleasure to know, and it is to just such men that Louisiana owes her rapid strides in progress and prosperity during the past few years.”

In 1890, M.C. Moseley married Pearl Boagni. Lapearle Frances Boagni was born 31 July 1866 to Dr. Vincent Boagni and Susan Littell, in Opelousas. Dr. Boagni was born in Italy and came to the U.S. in 1838. At his death in 1898, he was said to have been the wealthiest resident of St. Landry Parish. It was estimated his estate was worth $1.5 million.

The Moseleys had two sons. Henry Vincent  Moseley was born 9 October 1891. The couple’s youngest son, Benjamin Thomas, died as an infant on 1 November 1894. He is buried in the St. Landry Church Cemetery in Opelousas along with his Boagni relatives.

Five years later, Pearl fell ill. She was taken to New Orleans for treatment but died at the Hotel Dieu on 31 May 1899. She was only 32 years old. Even though she had never lived here, “she expressed a desire to be buried at Minden, La., thus manifesting tenderest devotion to her grief-stricken husband, who will rest by her side in the Moseley cemetery when life’s journey is ended. Dear old Minden – ever dear – the sweetest, fondest, and best!!”

Pearl Moseley was “true to every relation in life, an affectionate and devoted wife, a patient and indulgent mother, a respectful and dutiful daughter, a gentle and deserving sister, a generous and faithful friend and a sincere and devout Christian.”

Vincent Moseley was only seven years old at the time of his mother’s death and was just shy of twenty when he lost his father. They were on vacation in Manhattan when M.C. Moseley died on 15 September 1911. His body was returned to Louisiana where he was laid to rest alongside Pearl in the Minden Cemetery.

During World War I, Vincent served as a naval aviator as part of the Northern Bomb Group in Europe. He ran for governor of Louisiana against Governor Earl Long and Sam Jones in 1940 and against Jimmie Davis in 1944. In 1942, he was the commencement speaker at the Palmetto School, “asking the graduates to look forward to and plan for the love of town, community and institution which served them.”

Today, the Moseley plot is marked only by a large family marker. Individual markers no longer remain, presumably because of damage from the 1933 tornado. We are only able to identify these burials through newspaper reports.  M.C. and Pearl are buried there. M.C.’s mother Mary Ann is also said to be buried there, as is his brother, Dr. Benjamin Thomas Moseley, Jr.

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

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What are the first things that you plant in your garden? Of course, after the snow and ice melts. Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and onions. Next, on Valentines Day, your seed potatoes. Valentines day has always been the day of the old wives tale. While I am on the old wives tale, remember that if it thunders in February it will frost in April. We have written and kept up with this many times and that tale is usually right. Just mark it on the calendar each time that it thunders and match it up with the days of April. Those old wives knew a lot.

After the potatoes, you usually can plant the green beans and pintos. Blue Lake beans are the most popular, but many still use the Kentucky Wonder. The pintos that are most popular are the Taylor Horticulture Bean.

Now comes the fun part. Corn, sweet or field corn. Most gardeners like the Sweet G90 corn. Did you know that the 90 stands for the numbers of days before harvesting? There are a lot of new varieties to chose from.

After the corn, feel free to plant anything you want. Watermelon and cantaloupe are the last thing in the garden. The Watermelon farm’s goal is too be ready by the Fourth of July.

Well, I guess the best thing that you can do now is to design and make plans. Building the above ground beds is something that happens now. Stay by the fire and dream of the garden you want to plant this year.

(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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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Monday, Feb. 2:

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

ARY, JR., ANTHONY
100001 Simple Burglary
Restitution owed to the victim- $628.99 plus $94.35 fee = $723.34 total

ARY, JR., ANTHONY
100129 Aggravated Battery

BLACKMON, JUWAN M.
99144 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

BROOKS, JR., HERBERT A.
100116 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

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

BROWN, STEVEN PHILLIP
99918 Simple Burglary

BROWN, TWANTELL EDWARD
100020 Second Degree Battery

CALHOUN, DAWN SHERMAN
INCOMING Cruelty To The Infirmed

CALHOUN, DAWN SHERMAN
100071 Violation Of Protective Order

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

CLOUD, DOUGLAS WILLARD
99973A Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense

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

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

COOKE, JARVIS JUJUAN
99892 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

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

COX, KURTIS LAMONT
100130 Introducing Contraband Into Or Upon The Grounds Of Any State Correctional Institution

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)

EASON, MICHAEL SHANE
100131 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS

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, QUINCEY T.
100132 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

HALEY, ASHLEY ANN
100059A Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)

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

HAYDEN, RONALD WAYNE
99531 CT 1 Disturbing The Peace
99531 CT 2 Sale/Distribution/Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription

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

JENKINS, DEBORAH ANN
INCOMING Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000

JOHNSON, JR., ROBERT EUGENE
100133 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

JOHNSON, JR., ROBERT EUGENE
99306 Disturbing The Peace

JONES, QUINCY JAHEIM
99771 CT 1 Aggravated Assault
99771 CT 2 Aggravated Assault

LAMENDOLA, ANTHONY
100126 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

LARY, RANDALL GENE
98287 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

LARY, RANDALL GENE
INCOMING Reckless Operation of a Vehicle
INCOMING Leaving Scene Of Accident

LEWIS, SHAINA R
99916 Simple Burglary

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

MARKRAY, JADARIUS TERRENCE
100113 Unauthorized use of a Movable more than $1,000

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)

PORTER, JOSHUA A
INCOMING Cruelty To Juveniles

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

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

ROBINSON, JR., EDDIE D
99838 Home Invasion

ROLEN, JOHN STUART
99757 Resisting An Officer

ROLEN, JOHN STUART
100100 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

RUSHING, DEROME
INCOMING Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Illegal Use, Consumption, Possession, Or Distribution Of Cds In Presence Of Persons Under 17
INCOMING Sale/Distribution/Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription
INCOMING Sale/Distribution/Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription
INCOMING Possession of CDS I Marijuana (More Than Fourteen Grams)
INCOMING Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
INCOMING Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
INCOMING Speeding 11-15 MPH
INCOMING Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

SHYNE, LAVERTO
100120 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

SNEED, CHARLES CONWAY
100019 Simple Burglary

TIPPEN, ALLIE CRYSTAL
99991 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99991 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

WASHINGTON, ANGELA
97148 Second Degree Murder
97148A Obstruction of Justice by Tampering with Evidence

WASHINGTON, DOMINIC
100053 Theft Under $1,000

YOUNG, LEVERT L
T101323 Speeding 11-15 MPH
T101323A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

YOUNG, LEVERT L
99410 Ct. 1 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
99410 Ct. 2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
99410 Ct. 3 Failure to Use Safety Belt

YOUNG, LEVERT L
100041 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

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Phonetic: /fuh-DOO-shee-air-ee/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

Fiduciary is a formal word describing something relating to or involving trust, such as the trust between a customer and a professional.

The bank’s fiduciary obligations are clearly stated in the contract.

Continue your article here…

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

Jan. 31

UPDATE: 8 a.m. until noon, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Scholarship Program Tree Sale, 216 B Broadway St., Minden. Call 318-377-3950 ex. 3.

2 p.m., 28th Annual Minden Mardi Gras Fasching Parade.

RESCHEDULE: 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. LaMa Animal Rescue’s Mardi Paws Game Night. Springhill Civic Center, 101 Machen Dr., Springhill. Special Pre-game performance by Mike Spillers as Elvis, BINGO, games, Mardi Gras, Costume Contest, door prizes and raffles

Feb. 5 through 8

Champions for a Cure, Minden St. Jude.

Feb. 6-8

UPDATE: 2026 Northwest District Livestock Show.

Feb. 6 – 4-8 p.m. Animals begin to arrive.

Feb. 7 – Goats and sheep show

Feb. 8 – Swine Dairy, Beef, Poultry, Rabbits show.

Feb. 7

4 p.m. Bring your instrument and join us at Pine Grove’s Music Circle. Food served at 6 p.m.

Feb.  8

8 a.m. Pine Grove M.. Community Prayer Breakfast, 4549 Lewisville Rd., Minden.

Feb. 28

8:30 a.m. Buds & Blooms, First Methodist Church, Minden, sponsored by Piney Hills La Master Gardeners.

March 10

Deadline to sponsor 2026 Springhill, North Webster Chamber of Commerce Banquet. Email chamber@springhillla.com . Tickets go on sale April 1.

March 20

7 p.m., Malpass Brothers Show, CAC building, Springhill. Tickets are $ 25.00 for general admission and $ 30.00 for reserved seats. You can purchase tickets at Express Tax Title & License at 101 N Main Street or call (318) 539-2750.

March 24

7 p.m. 84th Annual Greater Minden Chamber Awards Gala. Minden Civic Center, Minden, La. Tickets: greatermindenchamber.com/awardsgala.

April 1-April 9

2026 Chamber of Commerce Banquet, Springhill, North Webster. Tickets: chamber@springhillla.com .

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Loading crossword puzzle. One moment please.

Play Sudoku online!

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Joshua Cole Butcher, 42, no address (homeless): arrested Jan. 23 by Probation and Parole for parole violation. No bond set.

Austin W. Perkins, 30, 100 block Shane Dr., Minden: arrested Jan. 29 by WPSO for failure to register motor vehicle, no insurance, driving under suspension, possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines), on warrants from Minden PD. No bond set.

Tonya M. Carroll, 40, 9000 block U.S. Hwy. 80, Minden: arrested Jan. 28 by WPSO on warrant for forgery. Bond set $10,000.

Cedric N. Adams, 30, 4800 block Shed Rd., Bossier City: arrested Jan. 28 by Minden PD for theft (two counts), criminal trespass. Bond set $250.

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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Maurice H. Marsh
April 11, 1935  –  January 23, 2026
Shongaloo
Visitation: 1 until 2 p.m., Saturday, January 31, 2026, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.
Funeral service: 2 p.m. immediately following visitation.
Burial: Western Cemetery, Emerson, Ark., 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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A number of parish roads still have ice, therefore, public and private schools in Webster Parish will remain closed Friday. Superintendent of Schools Johnny Rowland released the following statement Thursday afternoon:

After speaking with the WPSO and Webster OHSEP, Webster Parish Schools will remain closed on Friday, January 30 due to a number of parish roads that still exhibit treacherous driving conditions.

Currently, we anticipate all campuses and buildings resuming normal operations on Monday.

As always, we appreciate your continued patience and understanding.

Johnny Rowland, Superintendent

Around 4:20 p.m. Thursday, Glenbrook announced it will also be closed Friday. Please watch Webster Parish Journal for updates.

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Knight Services has released an update concerning trash pick-up in the northern part of the parish.

According to Leslie Dean Plants with Knight, Thursday and Friday the tentative service plan is to have crews servicing Cotton Valley and Springhill city contracts as a priority.

“We can only service roads that are free of ice,” Plants said. “There may be side roads or drives that are not maintained and safe for our large trucks. We will make note of these roads and overflow will be picked up on the next scheduled service day.”

According to Minden Mayor Nick Cox, Republic Services will be running all City of Minden routes Saturday – none Friday.

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Webster Parish schools will remain closed Thursday, according to a statement released by Superintendent of Schools Johnny Rowland.

Rowland’s statement:

“After speaking with the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Webster Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, Webster Parish schools will remain closed on Thursday, Jan. 29, due to a number of parish roads that still exhibit treacherous driving conditions. An assessment for Friday will be made tomorrow (Thursday) afternoon.

“As always, we appreciate your continued patience and understanding.”

Johnny Rowland

Superintendent

Glenbrook School has announced it will also be closed Thursday. Watch Webster Parish Journal for updates.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Warmer temperatures over the past couple of days have made travel a little easier on major Minden city streets, but Chief of Police Jared McIver said drivers should still be cautious on side streets.

“Our main streets are looking good but some side streets and neighborhood streets are still messy,” McIver said. “Overall, though, we’ve been very fortunate. Traffic accidents were not near what we had anticipated.”

McIver said most of the problems after freezing rain, sleet and extremely low temperatures hit the area last weekend came from stalled vehicles, vehicles running off roadways and 18-wheelers.

“I want to commend Minden citizens for not flooding the roads with vehicles during the worst of the storm,” he said. “It helped us a lot.”

After days of “all hands on deck,” McIver said the department has returned to its normal patrol shifts.

McIver said he was extremely pleased that Mayor Nick Cox, Fire Chief Brian Williams, all department heads in the city and he had developed a plan, executed that plan and stuck to it during the weather event.

“We were ready. I felt there was nothing more we could have done. We had plenty of man power, plenty of resources and assets in place and everyone knew the plan,” the Chief said.

“It takes me back to the TV show (The A Team) when Hannibal would always say, ‘I love it when a plan comes together.’ It was all hands on deck and it worked out great.”

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What do you say when you see a naked man running along Interstate 20 in the wee hours of the morning? If you’re a Louisiana State Police trooper, you say, “You’re under arrest.”

A state trooper responding to a call of a two-vehicle accident near the 44 mile marker on the Interstate just before 1 a.m. Saturday reportedly spotted a man with no clothes on running westbound in the eastbound lane.

After taking 30-year-old Tyler James Vermont Smith of Fort Worth, Texas into custody, the trooper reportedly learned, after questioning, he was driving the at-fault vehicle in the accident and had left the scene.

Smith reportedly was taken to the Minden police department where he was read his rights relating to chemical testing, but refused to provide a breath sample.

Smith reportedly is charged with DWI first offense and hit-and-run. He is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center under a $1,500 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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Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce, will present their 2026 Chamber of Commerce Banquet Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the Springhill Civic Center.

This evening will celebrate the idea that strong communities are built by engaged citizens, dedicated businesses, and leaders who invest locally. “By supporting and participating in this event, you are helping reinforce the pride we share in our community and the role local businesses play in strengthening it,” said Amber Cobb, executive director of the chamber.

A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of annual awards, recognizing those whose commitment and service embody civic pride and leadership. Awards presented will include Businessman of the Year, Businesswoman of the Year, Business of the Year, the Civic Award, and the Ambassador Award.

Why Sponsor and Attend?

Meaningful Visibility – Showcase your business to a room of local leaders, professionals, and community influencers through event signage, programs, and promotions.

Connection & Networking – Build relationships with fellow business owners, decision-makers, and community partners.

Community Leadership – Demonstrate your support for local growth, civic engagement, and community pride.

Marketing & PR Value – Gain recognition through Chamber promotions, social media, and event publicity.

Celebrate Local Excellence – Join us in honoring individuals and businesses who make our community stronger.

Potential Tax Benefits – Sponsorships may qualify as a marketing expense or charitable contribution.

“We offer a variety of sponsorship levels to fit different business goals and budgets, and we are happy to customize opportunities when possible,” Cobb added. “Even if sponsorship is not a fit this year, we strongly encourage you to attend and be part of this meaningful celebration of community and patriotism.”

Deadline for sponsorship is March 10. Ticket Sales will go on until April 1. Purchase tickets or sponsorships at SpringhillLA.com/2026banquet. For questions, call 318-539-4717 or chamber@springhillla.com . As always, tickets include dinner, dessert, & entertainment.

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