Looking for a new employee or to advertise a garage sale? Or even to sell a house or car? Recently, Donna Hoffoss, mayor of Dixie Inn ran a classified ad with Webster Parish Journal for a new part-time employee.

Here is her response after the first day the ad ran: “Hey Bonnie already had 15 resumes! You definitely have good readership! Thanks” – Donna Hoffoss

Classified ads are $70 per run with a minimum of three runs. Unlimited words and a photo.

According to Hoffoss, she received even more resumes after her three runs, and her council hired one of the applicants.

If you would like to have good results like Dixie Inn, email wpjclassifieds@gmail.com or wpjnewsla@gmail.com .

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United Christian Assistance Program has the following needs:

Food: powdered milk, canned meats, soup, biscuit mix, Ramen noodles

Household Goods: wash cloths & hand towels

Clothing: men’s XL short-sleeved shirts, men’s pants/jeans 34/34, men’s shoes 11 &12

Thanks to all for supporting UCAP!!

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

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I have a disclaimer for this article, and it’s that I am incredibly biased. I hate gambling and I see it as a huge waste of money. I choose mutual funds over individual stocks because I am risk averse. I don’t feel that I’ve missed out on any winnings because I know I’ve missed out on a lot of losing. 

I’ve said since 2013 that I refuse to invest in cryptocurrency because any currency that is only backed by vibes cannot be stable and has a high chance of manipulation. Even Bitcoin, the long-touted “most-stable token” has lost 27% of its value in 2026 alone. Sorry to burst the bubble, but cryptocurrency is only worth what other people think it is worth.

A counter argument to that is usually made by the crypto-bros that the US dollar is also not backed by anything, which isn’t exactly true. The US dollar is backed by the full faith and credit of the US Government, so it is secured by the huge portfolio of physical property owned by the government, as well as their revenue, which is a lot. Anyway, back to crypto. 

The main issue with cryptocurrency is that any money you invest is basically at the mercy of influencers, and I think everyone should be aware of that before investing in them. 

Unfortunately, the President of the United States is also a crypto influencer, which feels embarrassing even to type. Trump entered the crypto game in 2024 and Forbes tags his total crypto-related profits between $2.1 and $3 billion. He might have rejected his presidential salary, but crypto influencing is clearly much more lucrative. 

I want to also clarify before I get into the dirty side of crypto influencing that Trump is far from the only person guilty of this stuff. I am only choosing to highlight him because this conflict of interests between this and his position, coupled with his level of influence over the Boomer generation. They are the generation with the most money and the least knowledge of how crypto works, which makes them prime targets for crypto scams. The majority of them genuinely think crypto apps are actual investments and not just glorified gambling apps. 

So how can crypto influencing be so bad if Trump made so much money? Let me discuss the concept of rug-pulling. Imagine an influencer(or the President of the United States) tells everyone about this great new investment opportunity in this crypto token that is launching the next day. This person is rich, so you trust his advice and invest $100 in the token on opening day. The token starts at a decent value because the influencer owns the majority percentage of them, and the price of them is based on how many of these tokens are owned. So you, the investor, watch the price boom on the first few days, thinking you made a sound investment. 

Then you wake up one morning and see that the value you own is now $15 and you have lost most of your money. So what happened? The owner of the crypto token, who paid nearly nothing to start this coin, waited for enough people to invest to drive up the price, then sold the majority of their shares to cash out, crashing the value of the token for everyone else. Trump’s $TRUMP token crashed by 97% after the first few days, while his family made $616 million from it. Buyers collectively lost over $700 million. Yahoo! Finance reports that all of the Trump crypto tokens have left investors with a $4.3 billion loss. Contrast that with the amount of money Trump himself made from them, and it’s hard not to call it out as a scam. 

To think, Jimmy Carter sold his peanut farm when he became president because he felt it was a conflict of interest with his position.  

Now coupled with his ethics (or lack thereof) on crypto, it’s not a stretch to ask the question of if Trump is capable of using his financial influence to manipulate the much-harder-to-manipulate actual stock market. Trump has claimed around 40 times that he is in talks with the government of Iran and that the Iran War is nearly over. Every time he makes this claim, major indexes jump and the price of oil falls. Then, a few days later, he changes his mind and they both return to their previous positions. Most of the time, Iran responds that they haven’t talked to Trump and they have no idea why he would be saying these things. 

So why does he say them? We have to confront that he is either losing his mind, or that he has ulterior motives with these statements. I’m not sure which is worse. The concept of a senile president with access to the nuclear launch codes is horrifying, but what about a self-serving president who is extremely knowledgeable about manipulating the market that holds all of our retirement funds for his own personal gain? 

It’s easy to see why the prices of precious metals have surged over the past few years. Gold and silver are the only things that have retained their value throughout history. They will be here long after our country is just a memory, and historically, they are what Americans invest in during times where they have lost faith in the US Government. Gold surged in 1933 when the Gold Standard was revoked. Gold surged again in 1980 and also around the time of the 2008 financial crisis, and it surged 64% last year alone.  

My point is that it is important to be able to distinguish gambling from investing, even when it all kind of feels like gambling right now. 

Speaking of gambling, I’m not a prude who is against others gambling for fun. But back in the day, a person would have to travel to the casino to gamble, and it was a contained, rare experience. This changed in 2018, when the popularity of crypto apps led to the legalization of sports betting apps. Today, crypto apps and sports betting apps are on most people’s phones, and they can place bets from their lunch break or at home in bed. Over half of American men aged 18-49 have an active online betting account. 

You know if you’ve read any of my past articles that I am a huge fan of personal freedoms, but at what point does this become detrimental to our society as a whole? Are we just going to accept an entire generation developing a crippling gambling addiction because we chose to legalize it? As unlike myself as it feels to say it, at some point it may be the government’s job to step in if citizens are unable to make rational decisions for themselves. Maybe not yet, but I have a bad feeling about the future of these apps and their influence on our people. 

I feel like our technology outgrowing our financial educations are to blame for a lot of these issues in our society. I had the benefit of working in finance for several years, so I spotted the red flags in crypto years ago, but did any of us really learn about investing at all in school? We learned about bull and bear markets, and the causes of previous stock market crashes, but a rug-pull wasn’t in the dictionary back then. And the most I learned about gambling was the once a year my grandmother “went to the boats” with her sisters for fun. She certainly didn’t watch the State of the Union speech with her phone in her hands, betting how many times Trump would say the word “China”.

These problems are new. We were never warned about them. Our Founding Fathers had zero idea that things like this would ever exist. There was no way for school to prepare us for this. So we should give ourselves some grace and do our best to educate ourselves now. After all, the best we can hope for is to know more tomorrow than we did yesterday. And, of course, not to fall for any more crypto scams. 

Taryn Ogletree is a local small business owner and author with previous experience of several years in finance.

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In the hectic and troubled times in which we live, we seek unifying worldwide events.  In fact, it could be said that global competition underscores the international language of athletics.  One such event is upon us.

The FIFA World Cup soccer competition will be played primarily in the U.S. over the next few weeks.  Although co-hosted by Mexico and Canada, 78 of the 104 matches across 11 cities will be played in the U.S.  As we are certainly aware, the 2026 World Cup coincides with America’s 250th Anniversary, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to highlight American ingenuity, world-class hospitality, and athletic excellence.  In fact, Fox News reports that “Europeans are obsessed with America during 2026 World Cup stay.”

The FIFA World Cup features 48 (expanded from 32 teams in 2022) national teams playing across two primary phases: the Group Stage and the Knockout Stage. Teams earn points, 3 for a win, 1 for a tie, and 0 for a loss. Ties that aren’t decided after regulation go to extra time and often dramatic penalty shootouts. 

This is exciting! The tournament kicked off on Thursday June 11 and will last 39 days, concluding on July 19th in New Jersey after matches across the three countries. 

An undertaking of this magnitude is not easy to organize and produce.  The Wall Street Journal has observed “organizing a World Cup is a colossal undertaking no matter where the tournament is held … but the challenge of coordinating a World Cup co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico and Canada exceeds anything attempted in the 96-year history of the tournament.” (WSJ, 6-11-26).  

Revenue from the tournament is also mind boggling–the last World Cup in 2022 generated around $7.5 billion.  This one is expected to generate in the neighborhood of $11-13 billion. 

While we Americans love our American football—which we are delighted begins in a few weeks—it is dwarfed by the World Cup.  At our American Super Bowl each year approximately 130 million Americans tune in to watch the game.  By contrast, across the world some 5 BILLION will watch the World Cup!  That’s astounding.  

While we will be fervently pulling for the U.S. soccer team—and I’m happy to report that this past Friday, the U.S. soccer team defeated Paraguay!—the two most famous soccer players in the world will be on hand playing for their respective countries.

They are Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Lionel Messi of Argentina. (One writer described Ronaldo and Messi this way: if an engineer designed the greatest soccer player in the world, he would design Cristiano Ronaldo. If an artist drew the greatest soccer player in the world, he would draw Lionel Messi).  Many of us may also recall past soccer legends Pele’ and Diego Maradona who left an indelible imprint on the world soccer stage.

More than anything, what we are drawn to by such a monumental event is the golden opportunity to welcome the world to our country and the chance to witness, nation versus nation, athlete versus athlete, who rises to the occasion, meets the global moment and claims what many consider to be the greatest title of all—World Cup champion. 

FIFA head, Gianni Infantino, believes the World Cup is about much more than just sport. “Football (soccer) is about joy, happiness and smiles, while bringing people together from all over the world to create shared moments for billions of fans.” He added that it’s not only “the biggest sporting event on the planet” but also “a chance to invest in something that connects and inspires with a truly global audience.” (These feelings of inclusion and universality are such that President Trump has even stated that he doesn’t have an objection to the Iranian national soccer team attending and competing).

And, while some “localized, largely non-violent protests over social and economic issues are likely to target World Cup events in the U.S.” (S&P Global) that is expected to be the extent of it.  ICE has also stated that no large-scale illegal immigration enforcement actions are planned at World Cup events.” (N.Y. Times).

I am hopeful that even beyond the great athletic competition between, and spectacle of, 48 nations of the world and their proud athletes rubbing shoulders with each other in many different languages, that a simple but universal truth emerges: while our religions, cultures and forms of government may differ dramatically, we are all human beings and we are far better off coexisting peacefully. 

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

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

June 15 – 19

6 until 8:30 p.m. First Baptist Church, Vacation Bible School, Cotton Valley, Pre-K through 6th grade.

Building Bridges of Opportunity Summer Day Camp, males entering grades 6-9 in Minden and surrounding areas. Webster Jr. High School, 700 E. Union St., Minden. For more information, call 318-470-2031.

June 17

11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Giving is Groovy blood drive featuring City of Minden Police and Fire departments’ CUFFS & HOSES Drive, 520 Broadway, Minden. Give blood and tell which department to help one of them win the competition, while doing something to benefit others. Donate and receive a special edition LifeShare Groovy tee shirt while supplies last.

June 19

5 until 9 p.m., Juneteenth celebration, MLK Drive, Minden. Food, live music, games and activities for all ages, fellowship, community unity, local vendors. For more information, call Michael Walker at 318-210-1799.

June 20 – 21

Minden St. Jude Diamond Open in memory of Stanton Haynes. Minden Recreation Complex. Call 318-465-1938 or visit http://www.mindendiamondmemorial.com .

June 20

8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Men’s Wellness Fair, presented by Healing from the Heart LLC. Minden Recreation Center. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at eventbrite or at the door.

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.

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.

6 until 8:30 p.m., Vacation Bible School, North Acres Baptist Church. Register at https://onrealm.org/NorthAcresBapti31149/Registrations/Registrants/e37ca670-d1e0-4d26-8e23-b409010037cd?congregantView=true&connect=true&viewIndividualId=cd5677d8-e681-479f-af07-b3fc012389f5 .

June 25

10 a.m. Elder Fraud Awareness Session, presented by Louisiana Attorney General’s Office. Sibley Town Hall, Sibley, La. Call 318-377-0345 to RSVP.

June 27

Annual Ride for WHO Poker Run. Pre-register to ride at http://bit.ly/3PG71ZH .

9 until 10 a.m. Check in at Cash Magic Springhill for W.H.O. Poker Run. Pre-register at http://bit.ly/3PG71ZH . Benefits Women Helping Others.

2 until 6 p.m., Miller Quarters Park, Minden, Daddies With Angels Cookout. Hearts & Halos event to support grieving fathers.

July 9

5:30 p.m. Gather and Grow – Gardening for Pollinators, Webster Parish Extension Office, 1202 Homer Road, Minden. For more information, call 318-371-1371 or 318-927-3110.

July 13 – 17

5:30 until 8:30 p.m., Vacation Bible School, First Methodist Church, 903 Broadway, Minden, ages pre-K through 6th grade. Supper provided. Call 318-377-1483 or visit https://www.facebook.com/100064614286593/posts/1321421020021695/?fs=e&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=wKEx4hN4p2w03lR0# for more information.

July 26 – 31

6 until 8:10 p.m. Vacation Bible School, Calvary Baptist Church, 1400 Homer Road, Minden. For more information: calvaryminden.com/vbs .

August 15

9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Rooted Women’s Conference, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Road, Minden. This is a day for women who strive to be rooted in The Word. Hear from our keynote speaker, Stephanie Smithson, as she focuses on spiritual understanding and biblical literacy along with our multi-generational panel of ladies, who will describe what being rooted in Christ means to them. Come for a day of acoustic worship, fellowship, teaching and food! Your $30 ticket includes the conference, t-shirt, and a light lunch provided by Hugh Wood Catering. Childcare is provided. Registration is open through July 5. Register at https://onrealm.org/NorthAcresBapti31149/PublicRegistrations/Event?linkString=ZTc4OTQ2Y2EtZmM3Ny00MWM2LWE2NmUtYjQzMzAwZmUyZDgx .

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Word of the day: Mellifluous

Phonetic: /mel· lif· lu· ous/
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition

having a smooth rich flow
a mellifluous voice

filled with something (such as honey) that sweetens
mellifluous confections

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Play Sudoku online!

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Mardrekus S. Burnett, 32, 200 block Boucher Ext., Cullen: arrested June 10 by WPSO on warrants for theft, criminal trespass. Bond set $26,000.

Bryan Jordan Walker, 40, 2200 block Shed Rd., Bossier City: arrested June 12 by Probation and Parole for parole violation. No bond set.

Austin Wade Todd, 30, 700 block Gladney St., Minden: arrested June 11 by MPD for DWI third offense, driving left of center, no seatbelt, suspended drivers license, no proof of insurance, open container. Bond set $45,000.

Ladarius Jerome Scott, 34, 600 block Blacksmith Sr., Ringgold: arrested June 12 by WPSO for probation violation. No bond set.

Kenneth Ray Wallace II, 43, 200 block Jones St., Sibley: arrested June 13 by WPSO on warrant. No bond set. 

Marvin Porter, 46, 300 block RobinsonSpring Rd., Flora, Mississippi: arrested by Probation and Parole as fugitive from state probation and parole. No bond set.

Thomas James Boyd, 52, 500 block McIntyre St., Minden: arrested June 12 by Minden PD for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines), possession of drug paraphernalia, pedestrian in roadway. Bond set $5,002.

Lacy Brianna Carter, 33, 1400 block 7th St., SE, Springhill: arrested June 13 by Springhill PD for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines), failure to use head lamp, expired drivers license. 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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Martin William Cole
May 15, 1970 — June 12, 2026
Minden
Tuesday night, June 16, Lakeside will host an evening of sharing memories of Marty Cole: a teacher, mentor, and friend, from 6-8pm. All who loved him are welcome to attend.
Celebration of Life: 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 17, First Baptist Church, Minden, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

Dale Matthews
September 12, 1948  –  January 11, 2026
Sarepta
Memorial service: 2 p.m. Saturday, June 20, 2026, Cotton Valley Cemetery under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Shirley Ann Bass Gulett
October 5, 1941 — June 12, 2026
Minden
Visitation: 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 16, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Funeral service: 11 a.m. immediately following visitation.
Burial: Cotton Valley Cemetery

Sherry Jo Kirkland
March 25, 1947 — June 11, 2026
Cotton Valley
Visitation: 9 a.m. Wednesday, June 17, 2026, Cotton Valley First Pentecostal Church, Cotton Valley.
Funeral service: 11 a.m. immediately following visitation.
Burial: Gardens of Memory, Minden, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

Frances Ann Lester Posey
October 10, 1937 — May 23, 2026
Minden/Mansfield
Graveside service: 11 a.m. Saturday, June 27, 2026, Mansfield Cemetery.

Patsy Ann Greene Cahoon
August 2, 1943  –  May 26, 2026
Springhill/Shreveport
Graveside service: 1 p.m. Saturday, July 11, 2026, Old Sarepta Cemetery, Sarepta, La., under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

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

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By Pat Culverhouse

A two-vehicle, head-on collision on LA Hwy. 531 around 3:15 a.m. Saturday has claimed the life of a Haynesville man and left two others suffering serious injuries.

Minden Chief of Police Jared McIver identified the deceased as 26-year-old Michael Hice. He reportedly was a passenger in a vehicle driven by 23-year-old Slaid Gandy of Minden. Gandy reportedly was taken to a Shreveport hospital where he was listed in critical condition.

McIver said the driver of the second vehicle, 70-year-old Melvin West of Kilgore, Texas, is also in critical condition in a Shreveport hospital.

According to statements taken during the early stages of the investigation, the vehicle driven by Gandy was traveling north on Hwy. 531 when it apparently crossed the center line, running head-on into the southbound F250 commercial pickup truck driven by West. 

McIver said the accident is still under investigation. 

“We’re taking all the necessary steps to try and determine the cause,” he said. 

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By Pat Culverhouse

A Sibley man busted by Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office investigators during a Wednesday raid is now looking at one more drug-related charge, plus a bond of more than $1.7 million in connection with multiple drug distribution counts.

In addition to four counts of distribution of illegal narcotics, Germany had a charge of introduction of contraband into a penal facility tacked on when deputies reportedly found drugs on him during a pre-booking search at the parish prison.

Deputies reportedly found small baggies of a green leafy substance, individually packaged, allegedly ready for sale. Bond on the introduction charge was set at $10,000.

Now, Germany is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center under a bond totaling $1.760 million. 

A breakdown of the drug-related charges and bond amounts include:

• Possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines) with intent to distribute: $1 million.
• Possession of CDS Sch. I (synthetic marijuana) with intent to distribute: $300,000.
• Possession of CDS Sch. I (Ecstasy) with intent to distribute: $200,000.
• Possession of CDS Sch. I (marijuana) with intent to distribute; $200,000.
• Possession of CDS in presence of a juvenile: $50,000.

Germany was initially arrested Wednesday morning when Sheriff’s Office investigators, concluding a lengthy investigation, enforced warrants on his vehicle and his Frazier Rd. residence.

Investigators also found more than $10,000 in cash in various denominations inside the residence and in Germany’s possession when his vehicle was stopped.

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 Minden man’s attempt to run from the scene of a traffic stop in the early morning hours Thursday has landed him in the parish prison facing multiple charges.

Chief of Police Jared McIver said 39-year-old Shederrick Tyrelle Shine was apprehended in a wooded area behind a church at the the corner of Shreveport Rd. and S. Randall St. just before 2 a.m., following a foot chase.

McIver said Officer Morgan Jester stopped Shine for no tail lights on his vehicle and during questioning, observed signs of possible impairment. During questioning, Shine reportedly fled, ran up S. Randall and ducked behind the church.

As he was giving chase, the officer reportedly observed Shine tossing items on the ground as he fled. When he fled into a wooded area, Shine reportedly hid behind thick underbrush and continued to discard items. 

After he was apprehended and placed in custody, officers retraced the route of the foot chase and found a firearm magazine loaded with 9MM ammunition. A further search reportedly revealed a 9MM handgun near the church property.

McIver said Shine was booked into Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center on seven counts including possession of a firearm/carrying a concealed weapon by a convicted felon, flight from an officer, no driver’s license, operating while impaired first offense, no vehicle registration, no vehicle insurance and no illuminating devices.

His bond has been set at $2,004.

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 Bonnie Culverhouse

A city-wide boil advisory could be lifted as early as today (Friday), according to Minden Public Works Director Tyler Wallace.
The advisory was put into place Tuesday when it was learned that recent wind had damaged the local water tower.

“High winds caused a cap to shift on the top,” Wallace said. “It blew an antenna over, as well. After it’s lifted, operations will be back to normal.”

By Thursday, repairs were complete. The city must now await testing by Louisiana Department of Health before the advisory is rescinded.

“We are still under the advisory, but hopefully, they will test and have us an answer by Friday,” Wallace said.

Webster Parish Journal will post the information as soon as the boil advisory is rescinded.

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Javonte Morris is wanted for an offense that occurred on May 27. Detectives secured an arrest warrant following the incident.

The following is the charge(s) and bond amount(s) associated with Javonte Morris:
 

1. One count of aggravated assault with a firearm with a surety bond amount of $50,000.
    
   Please get in touch with Detective Matthew Hicks (318-639-7776) of the Minden Police Department if you have information regarding the whereabouts of Javonte Morris.

Any information will be 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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Louisiana motorists will no longer be required to display vehicle inspection stickers on personal, non-commercial vehicles beginning Jan. 1, 2027, under a new state law approved during the 2026 Regular Legislative Session.

House Bill 1085 was passed by the Louisiana Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Jeff Landry. The law eliminates the inspection sticker requirement for personal, non-commercial vehicles registered in Louisiana starting Jan. 1, 2027.

The law also creates a transition period beginning June 30, 2026. From June 30, 2026, through Jan. 1, 2027, law enforcement officers may not issue citations solely for failing to display or produce a certificate of inspection.

As a result, Louisiana State Police announced that it has immediately stopped enforcing inspection sticker violations.

Even though inspection sticker enforcement has ended, other traffic and vehicle laws remain in effect. Drivers are still responsible for ensuring their vehicles are safe and properly maintained, including working lights, brakes, tires and other required equipment.

Louisiana State Police said its focus during the transition period will be on educating motorists and helping the public understand how the new law affects them moving forward.

• June 30, 2026: Officers can no longer issue citations solely for missing inspection stickers or certificates.
• Jan. 1, 2027: Personal, non-commercial vehicles in Louisiana are no longer required to display inspection stickers.

If you drive a personal, non-commercial vehicle in Louisiana, you do not need to worry about receiving a ticket for an expired or missing inspection sticker during the transition period, and the sticker requirement will officially end on Jan. 1, 2027. However, your vehicle must still meet all other safety and equipment laws on Louisiana roadways.

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By Jessica Gorman

This weekend, Minden will celebrate 190 years. While there is no one day that marks the birth of the city, we use 1836 based on the earliest known survey of the town completed by Williamson Jones. The way the story of Minden’s founding is often told, many would probably think Charles Veeder showed up to a completely uninhabited wilderness and started a town. That’s not exactly how it happened.  

Of course, the area was already inhabited by Native Americans. The very first permanent settler in the area that became Webster Parish, Isaac Alden, settled here around 1811, before Louisiana statehood. At least as early as 1830, the site that became Minden was the home of Adam Lackey Stewart and his family. On 8 July 1835, he sold that property, approximately 160 acres, to Charles Veeder, a native of New York who had lived in Indiana for several years before moving his family to what was then Claiborne Parish. And so, Minden got its start. 

In 1836, Williamson Jones surveyed the new town of Minden, dividing it into lots. It is said that in that year, Charles Veeder built the first business, the Rock Inn or Rock Hotel. It stood between Main and Broadway facing East Union. The first floor was made of rock while the upper floor was wood frame. The inn soon came under the management of Sanders Day. 

About the same time as Veeder’s arrival, settlers from South Carolina established Mt. Lebanon to the east. Veeder had purchased a prime location near the head of navigation on Bayou Dorcheat with high hopes for the development of a successful town. While he wasn’t a man of great financial means, some of his new neighbors in Mt. Lebanon were. In February 1837, about half of the property was sold to Reuben and W.A. Drake, Benjamin Frazier, and Thomas Gibbs. The previous business interests of the Drake and Gibbs in South Carolina included the production of alkaline-glazed pottery. 

The Drakes, in particular, were instrumental in the development of the Minden. William Abner Drake made Minden his home and established a store that was designated the center point of town when Minden was officially incorporated in 1850. As his nephews, Hervey and William Abner, reached adulthood, they moved to Minden as well. The Drakes donated land for schools and churches. Minden quickly became a center of commerce and culture.

Charles Veeder had a history of financial problems. He had surely hoped that his move to Louisiana would change things. While the town he started grew and thrived, his personal struggles continued. He spent a little over a decade in Minden before departing for California in the late 1840s. 

There is still much to learn about our local history. This is especially true for those earliest days when we have a shortage of primary sources that tell a cohesive story.  As we celebrate Minden’s founding, we hope you will consider the importance of our history, the importance of preserving it, the work that remains to be done, and will choose to support the museum in that endeavor. 

(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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As parents, we spend years celebrating milestones. First words. First steps. The first day of school. Learning to ride a bike. Losing a tooth. Birthdays marked by candles and photographs that somehow seem to come faster every year.

This week, my middle daughter reached a milestone that surpasses every one of them.

At Vacation Bible School, she made the decision to ask Jesus into her heart.

As a mother, I can tell you that moment is impossible to describe adequately. There are no words that fully capture what it feels like to watch your child make the MOST important decision of her life.

When she came forward, the teachers and pastor didn’t rush the moment. They took time to sit down with her, talk with her, pray with her, and make sure she understood what it meant to accept Christ as her Savior. They wanted to know that this wasn’t simply a child following a crowd or responding to emotion. They wanted to know that she understood the decision she was making.

And she did.

I think one of the greatest misconceptions about children is that they don’t understand faith deeply. Their understanding may be simpler than ours, but sometimes I wonder if that’s exactly what Jesus intended. Children don’t overcomplicate grace. They don’t spend years debating worthiness or wrestling with pride. They hear that Jesus loves them, that He died for them and that He wants a relationship with them – and they believe it.

The older I get, the more I realize faith often looks a lot like that. I mean, in Matthew 18:2 Jesus does say that we must “become as little children” in order to enter the kingdom of God, afterall!

This Sunday, she will be baptized.

I know there will be pictures. There will be family members watching. There will probably be tears (definitely from me!) Years from now, I may not remember every detail of what she wore or exactly all the words that were said, but I will remember the significance of what this day represents.

Baptism is an outward expression of an inward transformation. It doesn’t save her, but it is her public declaration that she belongs to Christ. It is a step of obedience and faith, and I couldn’t be more proud of her for taking it.

As mothers, we spend so much of our lives worrying about our children. We worry about their grades, their friendships, their choices, their futures. We pray over scraped knees and broken hearts. We ask God to protect them when they leave our homes and guide them when we’re no longer there to hold their hands.

But ultimately, the greatest thing we can ever hope for our children isn’t success, popularity, talent or achievement.

It’s Jesus!!!!!

Everything else in this world will eventually fade. Trophies collect dust. Accomplishments are forgotten. Trends come and go, but a relationship with Christ is eternal.

This week reminded me that while I have been entrusted with the privilege of raising her, she has always belonged to Him first and that’s what makes this milestone different from all the others. She will always be my daughter. Nothing will ever change that, but now, she is something else too. She is my sister in Christ and I can’t think of a greater blessing than that.

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

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

ALEXANDER, JEWAN DANTE
99886 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99886 CT. 2 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
99886 CT. 3 Improper Lane Usage

BIRDEN, III, JAMES
99414B Obstruction Of Justice
Please make sure forfeiture of 1,877 in US Currency is part of any plea/sentencing agreement.

BOYD, MAX DEAN
100098-CT.1 Telephone Harassment
100098-CT.2 Violation Of Protective Order

BRYANT, TYRIES LEEANTHONY
100238 CT 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
100238 CT 2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

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

BURGE, MICHAEL JAMES
100323 CT. 1 Failure To Yield To Emergency Vehicle
100323 CT. 2 Reckless Operation of a Vehicle

BURT, TRAY ALLEN
100180-CT.1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian
100180-CT.2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

CARROLL, TONYA MARIE
100193 Forgery

CASEY, CARDARIUS LAMON
100298 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100298 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

CHAMPION, SHUNTORIERE C
100346-CT.1 Simple Battery
100346-CT.2 Simple Battery

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 CDS
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

COLLINS, WILLIAM DWAINE
100342 Unauthorized Use Of A Motor Vehicle

COLLINS, WILLIAM DWAYNE
99342 Felony Illegal Possession of Stolen Things ($1,000 – $5,000)

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 alance as of 6/1/26 is $3,743.36

FETZER, JR, JESSIE CLAYTON
100017-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100017-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100017-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

FRANKLIN, DEREK
100267-CT.1 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
100267-CT.2 Resisting An Officer
100267-CT.3 Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
100267-CT.4 Pedestrian On Highway

GRIM, TIMOTHY MIGUEL
99437 Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer

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

HILMAN, ROBERT JAYDEN
INCOMING Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
INCOMING Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
INCOMING Reckless Operation of a Vehicle
INCOMING Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

HOLLAND, CARLOS
100398 Unauthorized use of a Movable more than $1,000

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

JACKSON, ARDARYOUS T
100202 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS

JACKSON, BRENDA
100123 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100123 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

JACKSON, TERRANCE JARRELL
99575 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

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

KEMP, DESHUNDRA T
98811-CT.1 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000
98811-CT.2 Forgery
Restitution owed to the victim on Count 1 – $4,353 + $652.95 fee = $5,005.95
Balance as of 07/21/25 is $2,400

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

KING, JERRY LEE
99312 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99312 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

LAWSON, THOMAS AARON
INCOMING Cruelty To Juveniles

LOFTON, JATORIA MONIQUE
100124 Second Degree Battery

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

MCGLOTHERN, SHONDREKA
100220A Resisting An Officer

MENDENHALL, TYTRAVION
100402 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS

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

PERRYMAN, JUSTIN W.
98315 Hit & Run Driving Resulting In Death Or Serious Bodily Injury
OC 4/20 Trial 7/27

REEDER, RALTERRIAN
99103A Racketeering

SANDERS, JESSIE ANNETTE
99074 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

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

SIMPSON, LINDSAY A.
99427 Ct. 1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian
99427 Ct. 2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

SMITH, ANTONIO DEWAYNE
99223 Simple Battery
99223A Simple Battery
Restitution owed to victims = $1200
Balance as of 6/11/26 $980

SMITH, DEMICHAEL DAMONTREAL
100217 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

SNEED, JANE DENISE
99995-CT.1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
99995-CT.2 Simple Assault

SPENCER, RICHARD SHAQUR
100192-CT.1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100192-CT.2 Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign
100192-CT.3 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

SPENCER, RICHARD SHAQUR
99911 CT 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
99911 CT 2 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

STAPLES, REBECCA MASON
99799A-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99799A-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

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

THOMAS, YAMON D
100285 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

THOMAS, YAMON D
T105124 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T105124A Operating A Vehicle With Improper Tail Lights

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)

WALKER, DEXTER D.
100211 Introducing Contraband Into Or Upon The Grounds Of Any State Correctional Institution

WILSON, GLENN HENRY
99815 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99815 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Answer the call for the annual Cuffs & Hoses blood drive next week.

Giving Is Groovy is the theme for this year’s event where donors will have the opportunity to give blood in the name of either Minden Police or Fire departments, both of which are rolling up their sleeves to help the community, and they are all hoping the community will roll up its sleeves to help them.

Minden Civic Center parking lot is the spot for LifeShare Blood Center’s Cuffs & Hoses Blood Drive. Blood will be drawn between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 17.

“Our firefighters and police officers put their lives on the line every day to ensure the protection of life and property,” said Minden Fire Chief Brian Williams. “They do this not for the paycheck they receive but for desire to serve the public. This blood drive is the community’s opportunity to give back to our local heroes by their lifesaving blood donations in their honor.”

Williams encourages all first responders, not just in Minden, to step up and donate blood.

“I encourage all our first responders, firefighters, police, and EMS to join the members of our community on June 17 to give,” he said “Your donation can be used to help an accident victim, a surgery patient, or someone fighting cancer. Your donation can help save someone’s life. I would just like to encourage everyone to come out and support this worthwhile cause that assists LifeShare Blood Centers in meeting the needs of our community.

“I’m hoping Fire will beat Police in the number of donations, and I’m confident our firefighters can pull it off just as we have in the past!” he concluded.

Minden Police Department took home the trophy last year and Chief Jared McIver challenged the Fire Department to bring it on again this year.

“Get ready, Minden,” McIver said. “The Police Department is set to ‘cuff’ the competition and ‘hose’ down the Fire Department in the Cuffs & Hoses blood drive showdown!”

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Bahia grass is one the worst evils for lawn mowers.  It is really tough on the blades causing slow cutting and the need for frequent sharpening.  Bahia grass seems to come up and spread faster than most yard grass.  Bahia is a great grass for hay for the cattle but not the yard of the month.

The best way to rid yourself of this predator is to spray with Metsulfuron methyl. Isn’t that a mouthful?  This chemical comes in several different packages and names.  It first came out as a chemical name of Ally.  Back then Ally cost the consumer about $70 for a 2 ounce bottle.  As the years have gone by it has a least come down  in price.  Names now include Escort, MSM, and Rometsol.  Tomorrow I’ve some coming as another name and company.  

The price and name are both easier to understand than the rate of spraying.  A small amount of product, 2 ounces, covers 7 acres.  That amount makes it really hard to measure and spray correctly.  Unless you are a professional, it is just a guessing game.  We try to help and explain how to measure, but it’s hard.  One thing about it is that it is really a good chemical that works and works well.  

Watch out for a fungus that is happening on tomatoes, and other garden vegetables.  The rain that we have had has caused some trouble.  

As always, please read the label.

(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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Intake #26101 is Juno, a three-year-old male Blue Tick hound.

Juno is 61 lbs. He is heart worm positive and will need treatment. He is laid back and all about the treats and attention. He loves people and is good with other dogs and cats.

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

Adoption fee $150 (includes neuter, microchip, age appropriate vaccines)

Adoption application– forms.gle/TfS5pe939gbP4t2i6

.

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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  What are the promises of God?  What problems are you currently facing today? 

Too often, we focus more on the problem than the promise. 

We should focus on what’s important and let go of what’s not. 

Focusing on the problem will have you stressed out all the time, complaining about everything, and will rob you of your peace of mind. 

The enemy wants us to focus on the problems, such as pain, negativity,   past mistakes , sickness, etc..  but no matter what problems we may be facing, We need to stay focused on Jesus and His promises, the Word!   

When I think about the promises of God, it reminds me of His Word.  

Everything that God says in His Word is true. God is an on time God.  He might not come when we want Him to, but we must believe, pray, wait, and trust God’s timing.  

God is not like us, He is perfect, and He keeps His promises. If He said it, then it shall come to pass, no matter how long it takes. God is not a liar but a God of truth.  

Numbers 23:19

God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

We serve a perfect God that always keeps His promises, and He’s able to help us each and every day no matter what problem we face.   

(Focus on what’s important and let go of what’s not.)

 2 Corinthians 5:7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) 

Yes, what we see and the problems we are facing are real and may be serious, but God always keeps His promises. God is powerful, and He tells us to put all our trust in Him. He tells us that without faith, it’s impossible to please him.  

Hebrews 11:6

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

We have to trust God during the process and have faith in Him. We are living in perilous days. In spite of the many distractions from the enemy around us, we can’t lose focus on the promises of God in His word. God’s Word is powerful and true.   

We must focus on what’s important and let go of what’s not.

Be Encouraged! 

Prayer: 

Lord, we thank you for being an awesome God. Thank you for your grace and mercy.  Lord, help us to focus on what’s important and let go of what’s not. Help us to focus on your truth.   

In Jesus’ Name Amen 

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

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

This weekend – Minden:

Celebrate America 250 & Minden 190

Bites & Beats kicks off weekend celebration.

Kids Patriotic Parade

5K Run on Main

Cornhole Tournament

Grilling on Main

Little Grillers

Kids Play area

Duck Derby

Fireworks Finale

June 12

5 p.m. Doyline United Methodist Church Fish Fry plates, 116 Main Street, Doyline. $10 plates include fried fish, fries, hushpuppies, coleslaw and dessert. 

June 13

7 p.m. Gospel Night at aPiney Woods Jamboree, CAC Building, Springhill. Special guests will be Don Zimmerman, Glenda Whisnant, Cynthia Cater, Jeff Spring.

June 14 – 18

6:30 p.m. Ladies BINGO Night, Trinity Worship Center, Springhill.

5:30 until 8 p.m., Central Baptist Church, Springhill, ages three through 6th grade.

Upcoming Events

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

June 15 – 19

6 until 8:30 p.m. First Baptist Church, Vacation Bible School, Cotton Valley, Pre-K through 6th grade.

Building Bridges of Opportunity Summer Day Camp, males entering grades 6-9 in Minden and surrounding areas. Webster Jr. High School, 700 E. Union St., Minden. For more information, call 318-470-2031.

June 17

11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Giving is Groovy blood drive featuring City of Minden Police and Fire departments’ CUFFS & HOSES Drive, 520 Broadway, Minden. Give blood and tell which department to help one of them win the competition, while doing something to benefit others. Donate and receive a special edition LifeShare Groovy tee shirt while supplies last.

June 19

5 until 9 p.m., Juneteenth celebration, MLK Drive, Minden. Food, live music, games and activities for all ages, fellowship, community unity, local vendors. For more information, call Michael Walker at 318-210-1799.

June 20 – 21

Minden St. Jude Diamond Open in memory of Stanton Haynes. Minden Recreation Complex. Call 318-465-1938 or visit http://www.mindendiamondmemorial.com .

June 20

8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Men’s Wellness Fair, presented by Healing from the Heart LLC. Minden Recreation Center. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at eventbrite or at the door.

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.

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.

6 until 8:30 p.m., Vacation Bible School, North Acres Baptist Church. Register at https://onrealm.org/NorthAcresBapti31149/Registrations/Registrants/e37ca670-d1e0-4d26-8e23-b409010037cd?congregantView=true&connect=true&viewIndividualId=cd5677d8-e681-479f-af07-b3fc012389f5 .

June 25

10 a.m. Elder Fraud Awareness Session, presented by Louisiana Attorney General’s Office. Sibley Town Hall, Sibley, La. Call 318-377-0345 to RSVP.

June 27

Annual Ride for WHO Poker Run. Pre-register to ride at http://bit.ly/3PG71ZH .

9 until 10 a.m. Check in at Cash Magic Springhill for W.H.O. Poker Run. Pre-register at http://bit.ly/3PG71ZH . Benefits Women Helping Others.

2 until 6 p.m., Miller Quarters Park, Minden, Daddies With Angels Cookout. Hearts & Halos event to support grieving fathers.

July 9

5:30 p.m. Gather and Grow – Gardening for Pollinators, Webster Parish Extension Office, 1202 Homer Road, Minden. For more information, call 318-371-1371 or 318-927-3110.

July 13 – 17

5:30 until 8:30 p.m., Vacation Bible School, First Methodist Church, 903 Broadway, Minden, ages pre-K through 6th grade. Supper provided. Call 318-377-1483 or visit https://www.facebook.com/100064614286593/posts/1321421020021695/?fs=e&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=wKEx4hN4p2w03lR0# for more information.

July 26 – 31

6 until 8:10 p.m. Vacation Bible School, Calvary Baptist Church, 1400 Homer Road, Minden. For more information: calvaryminden.com/vbs .

August 15

9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Rooted Women’s Conference, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Road, Minden. This is a day for women who strive to be rooted in The Word. Hear from our keynote speaker, Stephanie Smithson, as she focuses on spiritual understanding and biblical literacy along with our multi-generational panel of ladies, who will describe what being rooted in Christ means to them. Come for a day of acoustic worship, fellowship, teaching and food! Your $30 ticket includes the conference, t-shirt, and a light lunch provided by Hugh Wood Catering. Childcare is provided. Registration is open through July 5. Register at https://onrealm.org/NorthAcresBapti31149/PublicRegistrations/Event?linkString=ZTc4OTQ2Y2EtZmM3Ny00MWM2LWE2NmUtYjQzMzAwZmUyZDgx

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