By Pat Culverhouse

A Minden man has learned that throwing keys into someone’s face is a key to a cell in the parish prison.

Jeffrey Lane Flournoy, 59, is charged with domestic abuse battery with child endangerment after his arrest Wednesday for an incident at a residence in the 400 block of Front St.

Officers were called to the residence where they learned Flournoy had reportedly thrown a set of keys and struck his girlfriend in the face.

According to statements, the pair had been involved in a verbal dispute when the female asked for her phone charger and keys. At that time, Flournoy allegedly threw the keys.

Officers reportedly learned six juveniles ranging in age from one to 12 years were present inside the residence during the incident.

Flournoy reportedly is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.

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 Tiffany Flournoy

CULLEN, La.  — A Town of Cullen council meeting was canceled just minutes before it was set to begin Tuesday, marking the second last-minute cancellation of a scheduled meeting in just over a week and renewing questions about transparency, public notice and decision-making inside Town Hall and the legalities surrounding them.

The town’s regular April meeting, originally scheduled for April 27, had been rescheduled for Tuesday, May 5. Both meetings were ultimately called off shortly before they were set to take place, and no official public explanation has been provided.

Residents who gathered at Town Hall Tuesday said they received no advance notice the meeting would not take place. Instead, they said Mayor Terry Hoof stepped outside shortly before 6 p.m. and informed those present it was canceled.

Webster Parish sheriff’s deputies were present outside Town Hall in marked units after being requested by the mayor in advance of the meeting. Sheriff Jason Parker said the request was made Friday ahead of Tuesday’s meeting to assist in maintaining order if necessary.

Accounts from town leadership offer limited insight into the cancellations. Alderwoman Bianchi Veal said Hoof said the April 27 meeting was canceled due to “unforeseen” circumstances and that the May 5 meeting was rescheduled because town attorneys wanted to be present.

Hoof could be heard outside Town Hall telling deputies and others that, under the advice of town attorneys, “they prefer that we reschedule it so they can be here,” referring to the attorneys.

Veal told the Webster Parish Journal, “This one was unethically canceled minutes before 6 p.m. due to lawyers wanting to attend, is what he told me. It sounds fishy on all ends. Then, while people were gathered outside Town Hall, the mayor said his life had been threatened. The truth is still a question.”

The April 27 meeting was also called off the same day it was scheduled, shortly before it was set to begin.

Earlier that day — ahead of the April 27 meeting — a confrontation involving the town clerk and a resident unfolded outside the back side of Town Hall, as seen in a video circulating on social media. The footage shows the clerk exiting the building and moving toward a vehicle where the resident was seated. No physical contact is visible, but the exchange appears heated, with raised voices and profanity audible.

Whether that incident is connected to the cancellation remains unclear, and town officials have not addressed it publicly.

Agenda changes further add to uncertainty. The April 27 agenda listed 14 items, including a proposed change in the town’s banking institution to JPMorgan Chase and an ordinance related to a land sale — neither of which appeared on the May 5 agenda.

No details about the proposed bank change were included on the agenda, including which accounts would be affected or where the town’s funds are currently held. The agendas also made no mention of mid-April changes to the town’s water policy, including reconnect fees and revised payment hours.

The pattern of last-minute cancellations, shifting agendas and limited public explanation has left some residents questioning how and when key decisions are being made and the legalities surrounding them.

A recall petition targeting the mayor and alderwomen Floydean White and Yolanda Castleman, which began more than a month ago, remains in motion throughout the small town of fewer than 800 residents as organizers say it continues to gain traction.

A request for comment and information regarding Tuesday’s canceled meeting was sent to Town of Cullen attorney Amberlee Nix of Bradley Murchison, and Mayor Terry Hoof was also sought for comment; no response had been received from either as of Wednesday’s publication deadline.

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National Day of Prayer was celebrated in Minden on a chilly Thursday, May 7 beginning at 7:30 a.m. in Jacqueline Park.

Mayor Nick Cox led the welcoming prayer, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by a group from Minden High School. Then a Community Prayer, the Lord’s Prayer, was lifted up under the leadership of Terry Combs of the City of Minden.

Preachers and leaders from the city’s churches prayed or led Scripture surrounding the topics of Government, Military, Media, Business, Education, Church, and Family. The seven topics were taken by Reverend T. A. Knapp, Mt. Calm Missionary Baptist; Brother Charlie Lechner, First Baptist Church; Father Nicholas Duncan, St. Paul Catholic Church; Pastor Royal Scott, Greater St. Paul Baptist Church; Mrs. Jodie Martin, elder, The Christian Church of Minden; Rev. Steve Berger, First Methodist Church; and Pastor Doug Greg, Calvary Baptist Church.

Afterward, MHS students prayed for individuals one on one.

About 50 people attended the early morning prayer service. But the nippy air, along with coffee from Brick Street, kept everyone quite awake.

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Ashley Nicole Shows is wanted for failing to appear in Minden City Court on April 30. The following is the charge(s) and bond amount(s) associated with Ashley Nicole Shows:

• Failure to appear with a cash bond amount of $800 or $20,000 surety.

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

Any information will be confidential.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

City of Minden’s new Administrative Court kicked off with seven properties on its first docket April 20.

City Court Clerk Ashlee Drake told members of the Minden City Council that one of the property owners cleaned his yard before his court appearance, therefore, that case was dismissed.”

“Six of the property owners were present; one did not receive his notice,” Drake said.

Four of the property owners attempted to clean their property prior to court, however, “…they did not fully clean them up to the standards that we wanted them.”

Drake said those the standards were discussed with the owners, and if they clean their properties and can show proof to the court during their next meeting, their citations will be dismissed.

“But,” she said. “They must come to court on that date. They can’t just skip court because they cleaned their yards.

“They were fined, with the fine suspended until the next court date,” she added.

Drake said fines issued were between $50 and $400.

“We are not trying to make money on this (court),” she said. “We are just trying to keep our city beautiful.”

District E Councilman Andy Pendergrass requested the same notices mailed to property owners also be sent to the council, so they would be aware in advance.

“So, when we get those phone calls, we will know how to respond,” he said.

Administrative Court will be held the third Monday of every month, providing there is a docket. It will meet again May 18.

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Spinnin’ Stacks Laundry, owned by Nancy Blanchard, is ready to take care of your laundry. Located at 801 Lewisville Road, Minden, the laundromat is open daily from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Different laundry services are offered, including self-service washing and drying, wash-dry-fold service, steaming, Wash Express, and cleaning for bulk items. For $10, they will also pick up and deliver inside the Minden City Limits.

Recently, the Greater Minden Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome the new business.

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If you want your pet to be Minden’s next four-legged Mayor, today (Friday) is your nomination deadline.

“We currently have 20 pets in the running for Pet Mayor,” said Ashlee Drake. “The deadline for both sponsorships and pet registration is May 8.”

Voting will begin on May 15, she added.

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Monday, May 11:

ARCENEAUX, JENAYA LEEANN
99520-CT.1 A Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling
99520-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

ARCENEAUX, JENAYA LEEANN
100315 A Attempted Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

BAMBURG, JUSTIN
100156 A Aggravated Battery BDCC Trial 6/22

BENTLEY, DAVID
INCOMING A Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS
INCOMING Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
INCOMING Improper Lane Usage

BROWN, JENNIFER
INCOMING A Theft of a Motor Vehicle – $5,000 or more, but less than $25,000
INCOMING Reckless Operation of a Vehicle

BURDITT, DAVID TROY
100039 A Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
Probation Violation Hearing
Arraignment
Bond Return
Bond Return

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

CHATMAN, DAQUANESHA S
95343 A Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
95343A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

CRAVENS, ALLTON B.
98115B A
Second Degree Murder

DEAN, JESSY LEE
100300 A Indecent Behavior With A Juvenile

DEAVER, ROBERT CHARLES
99968 A Indecent Behavior with Juveniles

ELLISOR, LEAH M
100250 A Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty- Eight Grams)
Status Hearing
Status Hearing
Arraignment
Status Hearing

FISH, JODIE MICHELLE
100344-CT.1 A Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
100344-CT.2. Distribution of a Schedule II CDS (Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
100344-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS (Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
Total bond $105,500

FISH, JODIE MICHELLE
100344-CT.1 A Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
100344-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS (Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
100344-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS (Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

FISK, NAKITIA ILENE
100330 A Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
100330A Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
Status Conference

FLOURNOY, RAVI ANDRELAVERE
100101 A Possession of Schedule II CDS

FLOURNOY, RAVI ANDRELAVERE
100101 A Possession of Schedule II CDS OC 3/16 Trial 6/22

FLOURNOY, RAVI ANDRELAVERE
T015426 A Improper Equipment (License Plate)
T015426A Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
Status Hearing, Arraignment Bond Return Date

FUMICELLO, DEBORAH DEE ANN
100241 A Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

GIPSON, VICTOR
INCOMING A Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
INCOMING Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS

GOMEZ, ALEXIS DAVID
100277 A Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

GRIFFITH, WESLEY B.
98868-CT.1 A Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty- Eight Grams)
98868-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty- Eight Grams)

GUISE, ZONQUES
100165-CT.1 A Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
100165-CT.2 Possession of Schedule II CDS
100165-CT.3 Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance
Status Hearing
Please make sure forfeiture of $8,201 in US Currency is part of any plea/sentencing agreement.
Sentencing Hearing

HAIR, DANIEL W.
99857 Simple Robbery OC 4/24 Trial 6/22
Status Hearing

HAIR, DANIEL W.
100331-CT.1 A Simple Battery
100331-CT.2 Interfering with Emergency Communication

HALL, SEAN OTTO
T044426 A Speeding 25 & OVER
Provide Defensive Driving Certificate

HARGUS, SAVANNA
100271 A Unauthorized use of a Movable more than $1,000
Arraignment
Restitution owed to the victim- $384 plus $57.60 fee = $441.60 total
St Conf 7/6 Trial 9/21 Restitution- $1,737.46 + $260.62 = $1,998.08 total

HARPER, JOSEPH ALVA
99705 A Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

HAWK, CHARLES GILBERTT
INCOMING A Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Pedestrian On Highway

HILL, SALLIE R.
100224 A Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty- Eight Grams)
Status Hearing Bond Return

HOLLAND, KALIA NANETTE
T044526 Failure to Use Safety Belt32:59
T044526A Use of Wireless Telecommunications Device Prohibited
Courtroom Status DA

HOWARD, JEDRICK K.
100225 A Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

INGRAM, ALLYSSA FAITH
100201-CT.1 A Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
100201-CT.2 Aggravated Obstruction Of A Highway Of Commerce

JACKSON, CARLOS ANTONIO
INCOMING A Home Invasion
INCOMING Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000
INCOMING Disturbing The Peace ARR 6/26

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

JOHNSON, ALEX JAKAR
100082-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100082-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100082-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
Status Hearing
Sentencing Hearing

JOHNSON, LORI A.
100328 A Simple Cruelty to Animals

JOHNSON, PRINCESS MARIE
INCOMING A Aggravated Battery – Domestic Violence

LANE, SARAH JANE
99543 A Simple Burglary
Held in contempt

MARTIN, BRANDON EVERETT
99115-CT.1 A Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
99115-CT.2 Attempted Attempted Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS

MASON, KEYSHAWN
100203-CT.1 A Manufacture/Transfer/Possess Machine Guns
100203-CT.2 Domestic Abuse Aggravated Assault

MCLAIN, ASHLEY S
100332 A Accessory After The Fact

MEJIA-REYES, RACHEL ELIZABETH
100164 A Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
Sentencing Hearing

NEWMAN, MATTHEW JORDAN
100337-CT.1 A Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
100337-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

PERKINS, AUSTIN
100254 A Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

PINK, ELLIS ALVIN
99513-CT.1 A Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
99513-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

POTTS, TIFFANY
100306-CT.1 A Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100306-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule IV CDS WPJ Trial 9/21

RANKIN, JACOBE
100205 A Manufacture/Transfer/Possess Machine Guns

RICHARDSON, MARANDA
100336 A Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
Arraignment Bond Return Date

ROBINSON, ZYTWONE
INCOMING A Obstruction Of Justice
INCOMING Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)

ROWE, CHRISTOPHER L.
100179 A Aggravated Second Degree Battery
Restitution owed- $7,240.65, + $1,086.10 fee = $8,326.75 total

RUSHING, ALLISON INCOMING
A Bond Return
Felony Illegal Possession of Stolen Things ($1,000 – $5,000)

RUSHING, DEROME
INCOMING A 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

SMITH, SHAKEVIYON
T017926 A Speeding 11-15 MPH
Provide Defensive Driving Certificate
Arraignment
Status Hearing
Sentencing Hearing

STEWART, ANTAEUS A.
INCOMING A Indecent Behavior With A Juvenile ARR 7/20

STEWART, KENNETH MICHAEL
INCOMING A Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000

TATOM, DILLON B
INCOMING A Felony Illegal Possession of Stolen Things ($1,000 – $5,000)

TAYLOR, CEDRIC DEWAYNE
99740-CT.1 A Forgery
99740-CT.2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000

TAYLOR, DERAYIS MARYE
INCOMING A Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment
INCOMING False Imprisonment
INCOMING Interfering with Emergency Communication

THOMAS, PEYTON LEON
99334 A Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling
Defense Motion to Withdraw as Counsel
Determine Counsel

THORNTON, LASHONDA
98913 A Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

VALDEZ, JR, BASILLO ADRIAN
100277 A Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
Status Hearing

VIRGIL, KERA GERRI
100329 Simple Burglary
Status Conference

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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ronald Edward Whatley, born February 13, 1947, who left us for his heavenly home on May 5, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ouida and Harry Whatley, and his daughter, Melanie Whatley . He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Cheryl, and his daughter Lori Townsend, along with her husband Brent Townsend, stepson Dusty Adcock and his wife Tammy.

He was a proud grandfather to Marci Sutherland, Peyton Prince and her husband Josh, Braeton Edmonds, Sterling Hutchinson and her husband Levi, Skyler Carney, Tyler Melna, and Emilee Townsend. He also leaves behind great-great-grandchildren Addie Beth, Layton, Larkyn Sutherland, and Atlas Riley Hutchinson, as well as bonus grandchildren Casey Pylant, (Jesse) Holly Bolt (Justin), along with their children Emily, Emery, and Emerson.

With a dedicated career of 45 years as a coach and teacher, he positively influenced countless young people. Known for his love of hunting, fishing, and football, he was most devoted to his family. After a long battle with health issues, he embraced his faith and now rests in peace. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation for Ronnie will be held Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Minden, Louisiana with funeral services celebrating his life beginning at 12:00 noon. Officiating will be Bro. Leland Crawford. Interment will follow at Gardens of Memory in Minden, Louisiana under the direction of Rose Neath Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Larry Sanchez, Phil Nelson, Bobby Lyle, David Kidd, Allen Ensminger, Bud Copeland, and Roger Kirkland.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Randy Tate, Al Miller Scott Johnston, Steve Brasher, Jerald McGuire, Larry Jolly, and Dick Lawson.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to First Baptist Church or St. Jude.

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Angel is a medium-sized spayed female at LaMa Animal Rescue. She is three years old and avaialbel through LaMa Animal Rescue & Support Services.

Angel is up to date on all age-appropriate vaccines and on flea/tick prevention.

She is HEARTWORM POSITIVE but has completed treatment at our veterinarian. She will make a complete recovery, so do not let the HW+ status deter you! Angel came from Minden Animal Control. 

Say hello to a brilliant and affectionate 3‑year‑old German Shepherd who thrives on learning. Whether it’s mastering new cues, practicing obedience, or exploring enrichment games, she’s all in. She enjoys spending time with adult dogs who match her energy and respect her space- not a huge fan of puppies. With her sharp mind, loyal nature, and love of connection, she’s the perfect match for someone who enjoys training, structure, and a devoted canine partner!

Adoption Fee: $200

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.

To find a previously featured dog, simply go to the “Search” box at the top right corner of websterparishjournal.com, type in “Pet Project,” and click on “Search.”

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Funeral services celebrating the life of Ronald DeWayne Hathorn will be held at First Baptist Church of Minden on Friday May 8, 2026, at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at Providence Cemetery in Ringgold. The family will receive friends from 9:00-11:00 am prior to the service. Services will be officiated by Bro. Leland Crawford.

Ron was born April 3, 1951, in Shreveport, and entered into rest May 5, 2026. Ronald was preceded in death by his mother, Ima Hathorn, and father, Kit Hathorn, Jr.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Judy Woodard Hathorn of Minden; daughter Amber Snider and husband Robert of Minden; grandchildren Maddox Snider and Nella Snider; brothers Kevin Hathorn and wife, Sharla, of Minden; Jeff Hathorn of Holden, Gary Hathorn, Sr and wife, Debra, of Benton; sister, Linda Hathorn of Garland. 

For more than 50 years, Ronald dedicated his life to his fireworks business. Alongside his beloved wife, Judy, they built the business from the ground up through hard work, determination, and countless long days together. He took great pride not only in the business they created, but in the relationships, they built along the way.

Ronald was an avid fisherman and had a deep love for teaching others. He loved sharing his knowledge with those around him, whether on the water, at work, or simply talking to friends. He never met a stranger and had a personality larger than life. Over the years, he built friendships with people from all walks of life and all over the world. He was always willing to lend a hand, offer advice, or show up whenever someone needed him.

More than anything, Ron loved his girls. His wife, Judy, and daughter, Amber, were the center of his world, and he would have moved heaven and earth to make them happy. Also being “Papa” to grandchildren Maddox and Nella brought him immense joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

Serving as pallbearers will be: John Bailey, Jimmy Butcher, Colton Guin, Rodney Guin, Shane Hailey, Paul Kitchens, Wade Shaw, and Mike Woodard.

Serving as honorary pallbearers Steve Lee and Tommy Walker

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to First Baptist Church of Minden Youth Ministry and the First Baptist Church of Minden Building Fund.

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 I don’t know what is worse, fire ants, stickers, or nutsedge.  I think that it is probably nutsedge.  Some tell me that the best way to get rid of nutsedge is to let the pigs have it.  I imagine turkeys would do the same.  

You can plant or spread mulch or pinestraw in a afternoon and the nutsedge will show it’s ugly face 2 days later.  Digging it up doesn’t help much, in fact I think it just spreads it.  There are several products that are really good that help to rid of it.  Image is one of the good ones.  One 24 oz bottle will treat 6000 square feet.  You can spot treat with 2.5 (5 Tbl) per gallon of water.  Image is also labeled for dollarweed, virginia buttonweed, henbit, several other weeds.  Two more chemicals for nutsedge are Certainty, and Halo 75WDG Select.  Certainty is Sulflsulfuron.  The mixing rate is 1.25oz per 2 gallons of water plus surfactant.  Certainty is also labeled for Poa Annua, Dallasgrass , and Virginia Buttonweed.  It’s good to use a product that has several different uses.  This saves you money and clutter in your storage.  Halo 75WDG Select is the third on my list.  It is Halosulfuron-methyl.  Mix .03 oz per gallon of spray.  There are a few more chemicals that will do the trick.

The main thing is to get your sprayer ready and the measuring cups that you are going to use.  Always read the label before spraying.  

With all of the rain that we have had in the last 2 weeks ought to jumpstart the fireants also.  Be use to have all of the insecticides on hand to get rid of them.

(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 civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of May 1 through May 7. Civil suits are public record.

May 1
Kenneth Wayne Cooper, succession under $125K.
V & R Hines LLC vs. the unopened succession of Alvin J. Royer, petition.
Jerimiah J. Cox vs. Tatega Lewis Jones, custody.
Midland Credit Management Inc. vs. Catherine Rowe, judgment executory.

May 4
Lorenda Gayle Lewing King, succession over $125K.
Donna Lynn Weaver, succession over $125K.
Tiffany M. Parish vs. Michael G. Upton, protective order.
Michael Upton vs. Tiffany Parish, protective order.
DMarion Antoni Salsberry vs. Watisha James Salsberry, divorce.

May 5
Debra K. Gandy, succession under $125K.
Patrick Dane Beshea vs. Amy Lynn Sexton Beshea, divorce.
Jamarion D. Teal vs. Honesty Kinsey Teal, divorce w/children.
Knijadia Washington vs. Marcus Smith, protective order.
Makenlee Carole McCall vs. Dustin Clay McCall, protective order.
Republic Finance LLC vs. Catherine A. Jackson, petition.

May 6
Sharon Rae Wiggins Maness, succession under $125K.
Patricia Jane Smoot Garrison, succession over $125K.
Karen Sue Hunt, independent executrix of the estate of Kenneth Wayne Cooper vs. Markulyn Cooper, petition.
John David Harrison vs. Mary Horstmann, petition.
University of Louisiana System Board Of Supervisors through Northwestern Louisiana University vs. Layson Johnson, monies due.

May 7
Jessica Taylor Liles vs.Charles Ray Nicklas Sr., divorce w/children.
Sprig Oaks Capital vs. Erica L, Jones, monies due.
Duetsche Bank National vs. Willie Rice, executory process.
Bureaus Investment Group vs. Dave Massingill, monies due.

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Friday

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 4 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 77. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 7 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 61. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Saturday

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. Calm wind.

Saturday Night

A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 63. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.

Sunday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 84.

Sunday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 78.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

May 9

9 a.m., 4-H Livestock Interest Day, Webster Parish Fairgrounds, Minden.

10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Spring Book Signing, Joy Lary, author of Joy’s Little Book of Love, Red Blooms, downtown Minden.

2:30 p.m., “Meet and Greet” and special music. St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1107 Broadway, Minden.

7 p.m. Piney Woods Jamboree in the CAC building, Springhill. Special guests will be Caleb Williams, Thomas Wooley and Tamera Mathers.

May 27 through June 27

Roar & Explore: Discovery Camp 2026, Webster Parish Libraries Discovery Camp 2026.  STEM-themed weeks that explore Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through fun, educational, and engaging activities with a lineup of special performers who combine entertainment and education in the most fun ways.

May 27

11 a.m. Jacqueline Park, downtown Minden. Time capsule burial ceremony as part of the City of Minden’s 190th anniversary celebration.

May 28

9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Champions of Character, Student Event, CAC Building, Springhill. Sponsors, City of Springhill, Springhill Medical Center, North Webster Athletic Dept. Lunch will be provided.

May 30

3:30 p.m. doors open; 4:30 p.m. games start, LaMa Animal Rescue Game Night, Springhill Civic Center, $20 for games, BINGO, purse raffle, dessert auction, concessions Split the Pot and door prizes.

June 4

10 a.m., Turners Pond, the second and final GOF catfish stocking of the spring by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

June 20

8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Men’s Wellness Fair, presented by Healing from the Heart LLC. Minden Recreation Center.

June 21

8 a.m. until a p.m., service at 10:45 a.m., Men’s Wellness Fair weekend continues, New Light Baptist Church, Minden. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at eventbrite or at the door.

June 22 – 26

9 a.m. until noon, Earth Camp 2026 at The Farm of Cultural Crossroads, Minden, ages 6 through 9.

1 p.m. until 3 p.m., ages 10 through 16.

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Word of the day: Bifurcate

Phonetic: /bi· fur· cate/
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition
to cause to divide into two branches or parts
bifurcate a beam of light

to divide into two branches or parts
The stream bifurcates into two narrow channels.

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Loading crossword puzzle. One moment please.

Play Sudoku online!

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Ravi A. Flournoy, 51, 800 block McCausland, Minden: arrested May 7 by Minden PD on multiple warrants. Bond set $1,000 cash or $20,000 surety.

David Wayne Hampton, 68, 100 block Mallard Lane, Doyline: arrested May 7 by WPSO for illegal possession of stolen things. 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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Ronnie Whatley
February 13, 1947 — May 5, 2026
Minden, La.
Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 9, 2026, First Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, Minden.
Funeral service: Noon, immediately following visitation.
Burial: Gardens of Memory Cemetery.

Ronald Dewayne Hathorn
April 3, 1951 — May 5, 2026
Minden, La.
Visitation: 9 a.m. Friday, May 8, 2026 First Baptist Church, Minden.
Funeral service: 11 a.m., immediately following visitation.
Burial: Providence Cemetery, Ringgold.

Mary Carol Stinson Lowry
April 19, 1947 — May 5, 2026
Bossier City, La.
Visitation: Noon until 2 p.m., Friday, May 8, 2026, First United Methodist Church, Bossier City.
Funeral service: 2 until 3 p.m., immediately following visitation.
Burial: Rose-Neath Cemetery, 5185 Swan Lake Rd., Bossier City.

Ida Lee Lungren
July 27, 1932 — May 1, 2026
Bossier City
Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 9, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.
Funeral service: Noon, Saturday, immediately following visitation.
Burial: Hill Crest Memorial Park 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 Pat Culverhouse

Moving a domestic dispute outside a residence within hearing distance of a Minden police officer has cost a Minden man time in the parish prison.

While on patrol in the East St. area just before midnight Tuesday, Officer Kendale Booker reportedly overheard a verbal disturbance. He reportedly found a couple in the yard of a residence in the 1100 block of East St. who admitted they had been involved in an altercation.

During questioning, the officer learned  that during an argument 38-year-old Oliver Dennis Baker, Jr. had shoved his live-in girlfriend to the bedroom floor, then struck her in the face when she got to her feet. The officer reportedly observed signs the female had been struck near her right eye.

At the time of the incident, three minor children ranging in ages from eight to 11 were inside the residence, the officer noted. An older juvenile also reportedly witnessed the female lying on the floor of her bedroom following the incident.

Baker has been booked into Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center on a charge of domestic abuse battery with child endangerment. Bond has not been set.

Bond amounts for domestic abuse battery with child endangerment in Louisiana are not fixed, but determined by a judge based on the case’s severity.

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 Calhoun-based construction company will be turning historic Griffith Stadium into a from-the-ground-up new facility after Webster Parish School Board members awarded a contract worth just over $3.4 million Monday.

D&L of Ouachita was named low bidder for the project, coming in at a total of $3,440,000. Superintendent of Schools Johnny Rowland said completion date is expected to be one year.

“Terms call for the construction to be completed in one year and we want to hold them to that schedule,” Rowland said.

Rowland said the board also wants the new Griffith Stadium to carry forward the ambiance of the old facility.

“We told the contractors we wanted a true stadium-type facility,” he said. “We want the feel of a baseball stadium.”

Plans call for a complete reconstruction of Griffith from the ground up. Features will include a new, covered, easily accessible stadium, with press box, overlooking a new artificial turf playing surface. New fencing and lighting will be installed along with new restroom and concession areas.

Griffith Stadium began as a quarter-horse race track in the early 1900s operated by B.F. Griffith and in 1952, Minden’s city council approved a property tax to construct a municipal stadium and baseball park.

Since the late 1950s, the stadium has been a baseball center used by Minden High School, American Legion and the Minden Redbirds semi-pro teams. In 1957, the Minden Baseball Association ignited the name change honor of the contributions of B.F. Griffith Sr.

In addition to baseball, Griffith Stadium has hosted rodeos, speeches by nationally-known figures (including George Wallace of Alabama) and activities during the Webster Parish fair.

In other business Monday, board members:

• Recognized Rendi Dillard, coach and teacher at Lakeside Jr/Sr High, as Employee of the Month for May. (See photo below)
• Gave approval for three FBLA students from Lakeside and one sponsor to attend FBLA nationals in San Antonio, Texas from June 26 through July 3. Trip paid through fundraisers and donations.
• Approved budget revisions in various school system district programs and funds.
• Approved additional costs of $12,874.25 for items at the Minden High School multi-purpose building. The facility has been under construction since February, 2020.
• Heard report of trips planned by students to a variety of venues.
• Learned Webster Parish will have 41 teachers retire at the end of this school year.

Board members also approved, in globo, $231,252.80 in invoices, with funds coming from the various school district funds. Those include:

• Consolidated District 3 Maintenance Fund: $12,873.91 including $3,928 for treatment of active termites at Central Elementary; $3,848 to purchase bleachers for Central Elementary; $2,089.95 to purchase CPR  manikin training kit for Lakeside Jr/Sr High.
• District 6 One-half cent Sales Tax Fund: $94,478.44. Major payments were $36,877 to refinish gymnasium floor at Minden High; $16,296 to replace valves on chilled water system Minden High; $13,600 to replace cooling unit at J.A. Phillips Elementary; $6,033.64 to replace roll-up door with storefront door at Webster Jr. High.
• Cotton Valley Maintenance Fund: $3,950. Payments of $1,400 to install new roof drain at North Webster Upper Elementary; $250 to replace pump at North Webster Upper Elementary; $50 to replace filters on units at North Webster Upper Elementary.
• Doyline Maintenance Fund: $48,028.71. Includes $33,813.71 to upgrade classroom cameras in middle school wing of Doyline High; $6,620 to replace compressor in classroom at Doyline High; $6,220 for compressor changeout and overtime at Doyline High.
• Sarepta Maintenance Fund: $23,900. Major payment was $21,900 to prep and paint cafeteria walls at North Webster Jr. High.
• Shongaloo Building Fund: $3,338.01. Payments are $2,806.03 to install electric retraction kit at North Webster Lower Elementary; $500 to change filters at North Webster Lower Elementary; $31.98 for armored door cord for push bar at North Webster Lower Elementary.
• Springhill Maintenance Fund: $44,683.73. Payments include $27,159.95 to purchase 80 football helmets for North Webster High; $8,541.78 to convert existing steam tables from gas to electric in cafeteria at Brown Upper Elementary.

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Minden High School senior and athlete Hudson Brown will be a Mulerider when he goes to college next fall.

Brown signed with Southern Arkansas University Tuesday on a baseball scholarship, as well as a merit scholarship. The all-around athlete is shown with his family, including father/coach Jacob Brown. Father and son can boast winning the Joe C. Oliphant Award their senior year at MHS.

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May 4, the United States Supreme Court allowed its decision in Callais v. Louisiana—which struck down Louisiana’s unconstitutional congressional map—to take effect immediately.

By issuing its judgment right away, the Court removed the usual waiting period and ensured that there is nothing preventing Louisiana from acting now to adopt a new, constitutional map and set new dates for the election.

“This case is a major win for Louisiana. We are moving forward immediately to ensure the constitutional rights of our citizens are protected and to fix the unconstitutional map. Louisiana is continuing to follow the law,” said Attorney General Liz Murrill.

As Justice Samuel Alito noted in his concurrence, no party indicated any intent to seek rehearing, and the need for prompt action was clear given the election timeline and the fact that voting deadlines were already underway.

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