Minden Police Chief Jared McIver (center) signs the department’s participation in the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Thursday. Seated with him are Chris Masters, supervisory special agent with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, and Deputy Chief Tokia Whiting-Harrison. Standing, from left, are Deputy Chief Chris Cheatham, Lt. Shane Griffith and Captain Keith King. The task force, a statewide network of law enforcement agencies partnered with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, investigates child pornography and online enticement and provides forensic, training and victim support services.

Photo: Tiffany Flournoy

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Charneidra Curry is wanted for an offense that occurred on February 9 of this year. Following are the charges and bond amounts associated with Charneidra Curry:

• One count of hit and run (FELONY) with a surety bond of $25,000.
• One count of aggravated 2^nd degree battery (FELONY) with a surety bond of $85,000.

Anyone with information on Charneidra Curry is asked to please contact Det. Matthew Hicks or Detective Brandon Curry at the Minden PD (318-371-4226.

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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BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry today highlighted the impact of the 2024 Tax Reform Special Session, noting that folks across the state are now saving more money as they file their 2025 tax returns.

“When people file taxes this year, they are getting a bigger refund,” Landry said. “The typical middle-class working family will save nearly $500, and the average working individual will save around $261—cutting their state income tax liability by nearly a third. Turns out the biggest jackpot in Louisiana this year was in your paycheck!”

Background:

The legislation delivered the largest income tax cut in state history. By nearly tripling the standard deduction to $12,500, families now pay no income tax on their first $25,000 of income. 

Louisiana moved to a flat 3 percent personal income tax rate, the second lowest in the nation and the lowest in the South, providing immediate relief.

The reform doubled the retirement income exemption to $12,000, allowing a married couple over 65 to earn nearly $49,000 tax-free. We also eliminated the corporate franchise tax and reduced the corporate income tax rate to a flat 5.5 percent, strengthening Louisiana’s business climate.

The changes are permanent and include automatic increases to the standard deduction to protect families from inflation.

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LaMa Animal Rescue will soon be hosting a new fundraiser and need your help. Purses 4 Paws will be an online auction for the organization, but first, purses are required.

Drop off your new or gently loved designer handbags at Lucky Pup in Springhill or contact LaMa for pickup.

Contact Michelle at 318-272-6093 or Sheri at 318-423-0639 for information. Auction plans will be released after purses are obtained.

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Family Day Care Homes provide reimbursement for meals and snacks served to small groups of children receiving nonresidential daycare in private homes (providers) that are licensed registered, or approved to provide family child care.

The meals must meet the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) minimum meal pattern requirements, as well as standards for safety, sanitation, and food quality.

The provider must care for no more than six children including the provider’s own children and any other children living at the provider’s residence who are under age 13, or age 13 through 17 if special needs. The provider must be 18 years of age or older, not living at the same residence as the child(ren) of whom care is being provided or use the case head of household’s residence or P.O. Box as the mailing address, obtain a statement of good health form a physician, agree to use only safe children’s products and to remove from the premises and products which are declared unsafe and recalled, meet registration requirements outlined in Act 868 of the Louisiana 2014 Legislature, and meet all registration requirements of the Louisiana Department of Education.

The provider must be the sole caregiver for the child(ren) during the hours the provider is registered to provide care. A provider may not hire anyone to care for the child(ren). The provider must ensure that a working telephone that can receive incoming calls and can send outgoing calls is accessible at all times in the home in which care is being provided.

How does a provider receive reimbursement?

Home child care providers receive reimbursement for up to three meals services (two main meals and a snack or one main meal and two snacks) per child, per day.

Claims for reimbursement are submitted by sponsors on a monthly basis and the reimbursements are direct deposited in each family day care home providers by the sponsor. Reimbursement rates are set by the federal government and issued by the Louisiana Department of Education.

There are USDA guidelines a provider needs to follow in order to qualify for these monies. Requirements and guidelines will be explained in detail upon initial contact of Sponsors.

Training Opportunities

The Child and Adult Care Food Program provides training to sponsors. The sponsoring institution has the responsibility to train all personnel involved in CACFP.

Contact Ms. Sonja Hamilton, Program Director for more information: 318-377-7022 ext. 235

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(BATON ROUGE, LA) – The U.S. Department of Education (ED) has approved Louisiana’s application for the federal Education Flexibility Program (Ed-Flex). This allows the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) to grant certain federal waivers directly to local school systems, increasing state-level decision-making while maintaining all federal requirements and safeguards.

“Louisiana is showing what’s possible when states are trusted to lead,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “Ed-Flex allows us to move faster, reduce bureaucracy, and ensure decisions about federal resources are made closer to students.”

What Ed-Flex Means for Louisiana

Ed-Flex streamlines how school systems request flexibility in the use of certain federal education funds.

School systems previously submitted waiver requests to the LDOE, and the LDOE then had to seek approval from ED. Under Ed-Flex, the LDOE may approve eligible waivers at the state level without waiting for separate federal approval.

Through the 2029–2030 school year, the LDOE may:

Allow school systems to carry over more than 15 percent of Title I funds from one year to the next without seeking federal approval, supporting more strategic long-term planning.

Approve waivers that increase flexibility in the use of Title IV funds, including flexibility related to technology spending limits, allowing school systems to better align funding with local needs.

Ed-Flex is designed to encourage innovation in the implementation of federal education programs while continuing to hold schools accountable for student performance. The authority supports school systems in making strategic investments aligned to effective instructional practices and improved student outcomes.

Accountability and Safeguards Remain in Place

Ed-Flex does not eliminate federal oversight. Louisiana will continue to uphold all federal standards, accountability measures, funding protections, and student safeguards. The LDOE must also submit annual reports to ED detailing how the state oversees Ed-Flex and how approved waivers affect school and student performance.

“This authority allows educators to focus more on advancing student achievement and less on navigating administrative requirements,” Brumley said. “It gives school systems greater discretion to direct federal resources where they can have the greatest impact on Louisiana students and teachers.”

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Intake # 26038 “Sasha” is an approximately 1 year old Amstaff mix at Minden Animal Control.

Sasha weighs 49 pounds and is heart worm negative. She has started on heart worm and flea prevention. Sasha is a little timid and has to warm up to people.  She is dog friendly and is curious but afraid of cats. She likes people and loves treats. She is afraid of walking on a leash, but we are working on that.  She is gentle and has shown no aggression at all.   She did great with her vetting and is starting to open up.  She needs an adopter that is experienced and will have patience with her.

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

Adoption fee- $50 (covers spay. Microchip,  and all age appropriate vaccines).

Adoption application-forms.gle/TfS5pe939gbP4t2i6

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

ALI, QASEM
99845 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

ALI, QASEM
99231 CT. 1 Underage Driving Under the Influence

ARMSTEAD, KEDRICK KENTWON
99992 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

BAGGETT, MARCUS LAMON
98860-CT.1 Vehicular Homicide
98860-CT.2 First Degree Vehicular Negligent Injuring

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

BURDITT, DAVID TROY
100039 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

CARROLL, TONYA MARIE
INCOMING Forgery

CHARLES, BRANDON MICHAEL
100000-CT.1 Aggravated Battery on a Police Officer
100000-CT.2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
100000-CT.3 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or Controlled Dangerous Substance
100000-CT.4 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
100000-CT.5 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
100000-CT.6 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

CROW, CHANCELER
99896 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

CROW, JAVONTE D.
100036 Cruelty To The Infirmed

DANIELS, DEVONIE
99996 Cruelty To The Infirmed

EDGETT, BRITTANY L.
100014-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100014-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

EVANS, DAVENGELO LAJUAN
97438-CT.1 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000
97438-CT.2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000
Restitution owed to the victims- $7,554.23 + $1,133.13 fee = $8,687.36 Balance as of 2/26/26 is $4,043.36

EVERETT, DAMARCUS R.
99864A Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000
Restitution owed $1744.02 + $261.60 fee = $2005.62

FARNHAM, MIKEL
100182 Fail to Register and Notify as a Sex Offender/Child Predator

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

HANEY, SHAYVON D
99864 Theft of $25,000 or More
Restitution owed $27,886.40 + $4,182.96 fee = $32,069.36

HENDERSON, QUINTON MAURICE
99952 Fail to Register and Notify as a Sex Offender 2nd Offense

HOWARD, AMBER MICHELLE
99861 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

IVERSON, MAURCIONIO LAFANE
100067 Sex Offender – Fail to Register
100067A-CT.1 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
100067A-CT.2 Operating A Vehicle Without A Driver’s License On Person

JEFFERSON, LEE ROY
99971 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

JONES, JACOB D
99406 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

JONES, SR., TERRY WYATT
97270 Illegal Discharge And/Or Disposal Of Non-Hazardous Substance

JONES, SR., TERRY WYATT
99179-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
99179-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

KEYES, CHESTER MUHAMMAD
100186 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense

LEE, JAQUAN LEKEL
99093-CT.1 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS
99093-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
99093-CT.3 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

MANESS, MIKELLE
100184 Criminal Trespassing

MARTIN, TREMAINE
INCOMING Conspiracy of Distribution of a Schedule I CDS

MCCUEN, BROOKSY JAKE
100039 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

MENDENHALL, TYTRAVION
INCOMING Illegal Use Of Weapons Or Dangerous Instrumentalities

MILLER, DAWN MICHELLE
100037 Unauthorized use of a Movable more than $1,000

MILLER, SR, TREMINDEUS JASHUN
99872 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

MILLER, ZIGARRI
99794-CT.1 Illegal Use of a Weapon- Crime Of Violence / Uniform CDS Law
99794-CT.2 Obstruction Of Justice

MORRIS, CHRISTOPHER DEON
99578 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

MURPHY, MARSHAD FITZGERALD
99558 Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment
99558A Second Degree Rape

OVIEDO-AGUILAR, LUIS
99628 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

PERRYMAN, JUSTIN W.
98315 Hit & Run Driving Resulting In Death Or Serious Bodily Injury

PRINCE, LACY
99996 Cruelty To The Infirmed

SHINE, SHANNON
99110-CT.1 Attempted Second Degree Murder
99110-CT.2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

STERLING, LAVANCIA
99678 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

TRIPLETT, JR., ROBERT VERNON
99974 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS

TURNER, TEVIN LOVAR
99980 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

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By Jessica Gorman

What is a legacy? Some may think that it’s about making a name for ourselves, a name that will be remembered. In reality, it’s crazy just how quickly we’re forgotten when we’re gone. These days, it seems to happen even faster.

Some people live their lives in pursuit of legacy, to be remembered for the things they did. The irony is that oftentimes, those same people can’t tell you about those who came before them or the contributions they made in their lifetime. That, in and of itself, illustrates just how quickly we forget.

True legacy, a legacy that lasts and lives on is often unintentional. It is not found in accomplishment or creating for self but in influence, the influence on others that can be seen in the way they live their lives. In this way, legacy has nothing to do with whether your name is remembered. Instead, it is reflected in the way someone else values what you value and steps up to take care of the things that are important to you and even more so when they pass it along to someone else.

There are so many who quietly go about making significant contributions within our community without any desire for acknowledgement. I admire those people deeply. Those who have been involved with the museum and cemetery, I think about often. They shape my work and the decisions that affect the future of both. I see the same in others who have that desire to carry on the unfinished work of someone we’ve lost and truly admire their unwillingness to just let it fall to the wayside.

My work is rooted in honoring the legacies of others – the legacy of those who created this place we call home, those who have worked to preserve our history, those who rest in our burial grounds. I am acutely aware of the quiet legacies of those who have so generously and steadily supported the work of the museum and the care of the Minden Cemetery. This work is important to me because it was important to them. I commit everyday to honoring them through caring for something that they cared for.

A few weeks ago, I was working to get the annual appeal letter sent out for the cemetery. Part of that process is reviewing the mailing list, making note of those who have passed, making the necessary corrections. It brings to the forefront those who are no longer with us, some now rest in that very cemetery that they so faithfully supported. Their absence is felt. This isn’t just clerical work, it’s not just about getting a letter in the mail, or raising funds. It’s emotional work. It’s about making sure that something that was important to them is cared for.

Those quiet legacies seem to be the ones that truly endure. They continue to shape our community in the long term through what they inspire in others. For me, they are my greatest motivation to keep pushing forward even through the greatest challenges. We owe a debt of gratitude to so many and I hope that you will join me in honoring those who came before us.

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

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Before you have kids, you think you know what the hardest part will be.

You imagine the sleepless nights… pacing the floor at 2 a.m. with a baby who refuses to be comforted. You brace yourself for the dirty diapers, the tantrums in Target, the first day you let go of their hand and watch them walk into school without you.

Those moments are hard. Don’t get me wrong. But it gets worse…

The first really hard parenting moment comes later (at least it did for me), when you realize your child is old enough to make mistakes. Real ones… the kind that don’t just end in a timeout or a lesson learned before bedtime, but the kind that can alter the direction of their life.

That realization hits like a freight train.

Suddenly, you understand that your job has changed. You can’t hover the same way. You can’t fix everything with a kiss and a snack. You can’t always step in before the fall. They have agency now. Choice. The ability to decide things for themselves and unfortunately the potential to choose wrong.

That is terrifying.

Because loving someone this deeply means you can see ten steps ahead while they’re focused on the next one. You can imagine consequences they don’t yet understand. You can spot danger wrapped in freedom. And all you want to do is protect them from every possible misstep.

But You can’t.

This is where faith comes in… and trust… and letting go in the smallest, most painful increments.

We guide, warn, pray and try to model. We set boundaries and remind them who they are and whose they are. And then, at some point, we have to trust that the foundation we laid is strong enough to hold them.

And WHEN they stumble (because they will) we pray they learn and that the lesson sticks. That the mistake becomes wisdom instead of regret. Parenting isn’t about raising kids who never mess up. It’s about raising kids who know how to recover, take responsibility and grow from it.

That’s the part no one prepares you for… loving them enough to let them choose, even when it scares you to death. The first really hard parenting moment isn’t when they need you every second. It’s when they don’t and you have to believe they’ll be okay anyway.

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

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Fertilizer numbers are confusing if you are not in the business or an advanced gardener.  8-8-8 , 13-13-13, 8-24-24, these are all fertilizers for the garden or pasture, or wherever you need it.  But what do they stand for?  The numbers stand for the Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium that is the fertilizer bag.  8-8-8 is a 1-1-1 ratio because of the equal amounts of ingredients.  8-24 -24 is a 1-2-2 ratio.  This means that it is low in nitrogen and equally high amounts of phosphorus and potassium.  

In simple terms, the nitrogen makes your plants or grass green and grow, the phosphorus makes blooms, and the potassium is good for the root system.  It is not as hard to learn as we thought.  Most people use 8-8-8 or 13-13-13 for their garden.  8-24-24 is a great starter for a newly planted yard.  You use this for start and come back with some nitrogen to help it later with growth and green-up.  

What is organic?  Organic gardening is different from conventional gardening is the use of natural materials and synthetic pesticides and fertilizer.  Most of the small pack companies have a line of both.  Fertilome especially has a great line of organic products.  Soil amendments are a great deal part of organic gardening.  Some are cottonseed meal, bone and blood meal, fish meal, cow manure and lots of others.  Many people use a compost pile to start the process of getting organics in the garden.  Neem oil works as a fungicide, insecticide or miticide.  Another organic product is Spinosad.  This is fairly new and is a great insecticide and does help with fire ants.  

What does systemic mean.  Systemic means that the product poured around the tree or shrub is able to be sucked up the tree or shrub.  I know this sounds crude but it is true.  It won’t work when it is dormant season because the plant is not growing or blooming.  A systemic product is one of the easiest thing to use.  It mixes with water and you don’t have to spray, just pour around the base of the plant.  I like to use systemic products around the base of roses, trees, azaleas, and crepe myrtles.  Usually it has both an insecticide and fungicide.

What are pesticides?  A lot of things go into the category of pesticides.  Hebicides include weed and grass killer, and brush and tree killer.  Insecticides are for bugs and fungicides kill the fungus on the plants and trees.  Pesticide is just a general name for all of these things.  You need to identify what you are needing to spray or kill.  A local garden store or the LSU Ag Center have the knowledge or the books to assist you with this.

As always read and follow the directions on the label.

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

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Friday

Sunny, with a high near 76. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 50. Calm wind.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 80. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 55.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 81.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 54.

Monday

A 20 percent chance of showers before noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 69.

Monday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

Feb. 26

10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., Senior Box Distribution, First Baptist Church, 208 N. Arkansas St., Springhill.

5 until 6:30 p.m. Join Writing Club, Springhill Library Branch Meeting Room. 318-539-4117 for more details.

Feb. 28

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

10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Shop the Block in downtown Minden.

11:30 a.m. North Louisiana Historical Association will meet at Noel Memorial Library, LSU-Shreveport.

Softball tryouts at Minden Recreation Center. 6U: 9 a.m., 7-8: 10 a.m., 9-10: 11 a.m., 11-12 girls, 12 p.m.

3 p.m. turn in time for Gumbo Cook-Off, hosted by Post 388. Must cook on site at American Legion Post 388, 5401 Highway 527, Haughton. First, second and People’s Choice. Entry fee: $15; tasting bowls: $5.

March 1

Baseball tryouts at Minden Recreation Center. 6U: 1:30 p.m., 7-8: 2:30 p.m., 9-10: 3:30 p.m., 11-12 boys: 4:30 p.m.

March 9

6 .m. Night at the Museum, 116 Pearl St., Minden. Brian Davis, Executive Director of the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation will be guest speaker. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; seating is limited.

March 10

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

March 12

5 until 7 p.m., Bites & Beats, Miller Quarters Park, Minden, live music, food trucks, family friendly fun.

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 .

April 9

5 until 7 p.m., Bites & Beats, Miller Quarters Park, Minden, live music with Cynthia Sandidge, food trucks, family friendly fun.

6 p.m. Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, Springhill Civic Center.

April 18

9 a.m. until noon, Arms Around Autism, Autism Acceptance Walk, Miller Quarters Park, Minden. Vendors, bounce house, resources, sensory-friendly kid zone.

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Word of the Day: Intestate

Phonetic: /in·tes·tate/
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition
not having made a will before one dies.

“he died intestate”
 a person who has died without having made a will.

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Play Sudoku online!

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The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of February 20 through 26. Civil suits are public record.

February 20
William Henry Kline Jr., succession under $125K.
Peyton Alyce Masingill vs. Jesus Daniel Botello Gonzalez, divorce.
Stephanie Turner vs. Demario Marques Walker, protective order.
Tower Loan of Minden vs. Tevin Turner, monies due.
Tower Loan of Minden vs. Tadarius Key, monies due.
Citibank vs. Jose M. Chavez, petition.

February 23
Sabrina Jackson vs. Richard Spencer, protective order.
Post Office Employees Federal Credit Union vs. unopened succession of Brenda Coleman, monies due.
Webster Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission vs. Problem Solving Team LLC, Vincent McDaniel, monies due.
Webster Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission vs. Cajun Gypsy Catering LLC, Gina Hanson, monies due.

February 24
Synchrony Bank vs. William Davis, monies due.
Flora Ida Rushman, succession over $125K.
Malinda Powell Sparkman vs. Bobby Allen Sparkman Jr., divorce/no children.
Kristi Burton McKan vs. Bobby McKan Jr., divorce/no children.
Shirley Manning duty vs. Richard Leon Duty, divorce.

February 25
Louisiana Community and Technical College System vs. Moneka Renee Freeman, monies due.
Willie Mae Pearson Thomas, succession under $125K.
Consumer Portfolio Services vs. Yolanda Carpenter, petition.

February 26
Priscill Diane Hillmon vs. Charles Edward Hillmon Jr., divorce.

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Tiffany M. Potts, 50, 600 block Porterville Rd., Sarepta: arrested Feb. 25 by Springhill PD on warrants for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines) with intent to distribute, possession of CDS Sch. IV with intent to distribute. Bond set $30,000.

Carlos A. Harges, 65, 100 block Eisenhower Dr., Minden: arrested Feb. 25 by WPSO for resisting an officer, driving under suspension, careless operation, turning movements requiring signals. Bond set $1,002.

Karen Cook Powell, 62, 200 block Goode Ave., Minden: arrested Feb. 25 by Minden PD on warrant for distribution of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines). Bond set $25,000.

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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Judy Ann Akin Orr
October 29, 1946 — February 25, 2026
Minden
Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Funeral service: 11 a.m. immediately after visitation.
Burial: Lane Memorial Cemetery, Sibley.

Patricia Ann McKinney Pendergrass
June 11, 1954 — February 23, 2026
Minden
Visitation: 9 until 11 a.m. Friday, February 27, 2026, First Baptist Church, Minden.
Celebration of Life immediately following visitation.
Private graveside: Minden Cemetery

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

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By Tiffany Flournoy

CULLEN, La. — For the second straight meeting, the Town of Cullen council approved key measures often without motions, seconds, or clear votes — all while police business was omitted from the agenda despite critical operational concerns.

The council’s repeated procedural lapses and unclear voting have left residents questioning whether governance, transparency and accountability are priorities.

Attorney Joshua S. Chevallier with Bradley Murchison told alderwomen that actions from the Feb. 2 meeting required formal ratification, including a motion, second and roll-call vote to correct potential defects.

“There were some technical questions raised after the fact on the timing of the posting of the agenda,” Chevallier said. “When that agenda was posted, the town didn’t have an attorney. We reviewed it and believe there were some small technical issues with the notice publication.”

Alderwoman Denise Epps-Hoof made a motion to ratify all Feb. 2 actions. No second was made. Mayor Terry Hoof asked for council comment and then called for a vote. Members responded in apparent support, but no roll-call was conducted, leaving individual votes unclear. The mayor then announced the ratification had passed.

The council also approved an ordinance to amend the town’s water rates. While the item received a roll-call vote, it lacked a clearly-stated motion or second. Alderwoman Barbara Green was the one vote against the measure. If enacted, the base rate will rise from $12.50 to $18.

Alderwoman Bianchi Veal questioned who oversees the water system and what grade it received on its most recent rural water report. Mayor Hoof said the employee monitoring the system is taking certification courses and referred Veal to online records, unable to provide the system’s grade during the meeting.

The council later approved a proposed budget ordinance for 2026–2027. Veal and Green said they were never provided a copy of the 2025–2026 budget last year. Veal criticized the proposal for lack of detailed expenditure breakdowns for the council to immediately review.

Mayor Hoof and Alderwoman Floydean White directed council members to financial reports, but the mayor offered no explanation for why the prior year’s budget ordinance was never distributed. The proposed ordinance covers the general, water and sewer funds but omits police department funding. Its approval, like other actions that evening, proceeded without a clearly-stated motion and second.

Police Chief Fannie Rankin has said in meetings that she has repeatedly requested a copy of the police department’s budget since taking office in 2025 but has not received it. 

The police department is also facing mounting operational setbacks — cruisers left immobilized due to lack of fuel, radios surrendered because of the town’s nonpayment and long-standing dispatch services suspended over unpaid bills — raising immediate public safety and officer safety concerns.

From repeated procedural lapses to unclear voting and operational crises within the police department, Cullen residents are left questioning the town’s business practices and priorities.

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By Zoë Pickett

Amanda Sexton has resigned from her position as Mayor of the Village of Shongaloo, effective February 17, 2026. Mayor Pro Tem, Ann Sexton, will serve as mayor until the Governor appoints a successor or the council calls for a special election.

Sexton was appointed by the Governor on February 27, 2025, and later elected unopposed on July 21, 2025. In her statement, she said her decision came after “much thought and prayer” and was made to ensure her voice and perspective were clearly shared.

“When I took my oath, I did so with a sincere commitment to lead with integrity, serve selflessly, and work toward meaningful growth for our community,” Sexton stated.

During her tenure, Sexton focused on strengthening the village financially, supporting the fire department, and expanding opportunities for families and youth. She highlighted efforts to pursue grant funding, improve the civic center, and establish a partnership with Universal Youth Athletics, which she said provided financial relief to the village while increasing youth programming.

She also coordinated with the police jury on road striping, ditch maintenance, and pothole repairs, and worked to support the local commodities program and volunteers who serve the community.

Sexton acknowledged that some initiatives were met with resistance, particularly those involving change and long-term growth.

“Leadership requires both effort and alignment,” she said. “When that alignment is no longer present, it becomes increasingly difficult to serve effectively.”

She noted the mayor’s role is unpaid and voluntary, and that she personally contributed time and financial resources during her service. One highlight of her term, she said, was hosting the village’s first annual Christmas celebration in 2025.

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By Paige Gurgainers

Community members are invited to join together in support and celebration of neurodiversity at the upcoming “Arms Around Autism” Acceptance Walk, scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 9 a.m. at Miller Quarters Park. The event, hosted by Families Helping Families Region 7, aims to bring awareness and acceptance for individuals on the autism spectrum while offering an uplifting morning of unity and positivity.

The Acceptance Walk, organized as part of April’s national observance of Autism Awareness and Acceptance, encourages participants of all ages to come together and show their support for families and individuals impacted by autism. 

A spokesperson with Family Helping Families Region 7 said, “The walk brings together families, local businesses and community members to celebrate abilities and highlight the importance of acceptance.”

Families Helping Families Region 7 is known for their commitment to supporting individuals and families navigating developmental disabilities. Through events like the “Arms Around Autism” walk, the organization seeks to raise awareness, eliminate stigma and provide resources and encouragement to those who need it most.

The walk is open to everyone, and organizers encourage participants to arrive early as doors open at 8:45 a.m. There will be opportunities to meet neighbors, share stories and take part in a meaningful walk through Miller Quarters Park to show unity and acceptance.

Participants are reminded that the event is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. It’s expected to offer a welcoming environment for individuals, caregivers and advocates to connect and show support for autism acceptance throughout the community.

For residents seeking a purposeful way to celebrate Autism Awareness Month and make a positive impact alongside their peers, the “Arms Around Autism” Acceptance Walk provides a meaningful and joyful opportunity to do just that.

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SMC the only rural hospital in Louisiana to receive 2026 Chartis recognition

Springhill Medical Center has announced that it has been recognized as a 2026 Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, making it the only rural hospital in Louisiana to earn this distinction. The Top 100 program honors outstanding performance among rural hospitals nationwide, based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®—the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital excellence.

“Our employees take pride in the care that they give to our patients,” said Pete Johnson, CEO. “I am proud of the hard work all our employees do to make Springhill Medical Center the best rural hospital in Louisiana. We strive to provide our community with excellent healthcare and a local hospital and clinics they can trust with their care. This is a team effort every day.”

“The delivery of care within rural communities is perhaps more complex today than at any point in recent memory. This year’s Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals have emerged as true leaders—committed to their mission through a powerful combination of resilience, dedication and innovation,” said Michael Topchik, Executive Director of The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “We’re delighted to recognize this year’s winners and celebrate their Top 100 status.”

Now in its 16th year, the INDEX leverages publicly available data to evaluate rural hospitals across key performance areas including operations, quality, patient perspective, and financial stability. The INDEX is used nationwide by rural hospitals, health systems, hospital associations, and state offices of rural health to measure and monitor performance.

About Springhill Medical Center

Learn more at http://www.smccare.com

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SHREVEPORT – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that major construction work is moving forward as the new 4-lane Jimmie Davis Bridge (LA 511) continues to take shape over the Red River.

Upcoming activities will require nighttime closures of the Clyde Fant Parkway in Shreveport near its interchange with the existing Jimmie Davis Bridge. The design-builder will be mobilizing equipment and setting girders for the new structure. Girders bear the load of the deck and future traffic, preventing sagging or collapse.

Beginning on the night of Monday, March 9, 2026, all lanes of Clyde Fant Parkway in both directions will be closed to allow for these activities to occur. This full road closure will take place nightly from approximately 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. on weeknights until Friday, March 20, 2026.

On the weekend of March 14-15, Clyde Fant Parkway will be closed from 7 p.m. on Friday, March 13 until 6 a.m. on Monday, March 16th.

This will ensure the construction work can be carried out safely and efficiently. The Jimmie Davis Bridge itself will remain open during this work.

To read much more about the project, including accessing detour maps & other resources, visit the JDB project webpage here.

Restrictions/Permits: Total road closure at the specified location.

Alternate Route: Motorists will be detoured via Arthur Ray Teague Parkway and over the Shreveport-Barksdale Bridge (LA 3032).

All work will be performed weather permitting.

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